This Audi SUV Has More Power Than A Macan Turbo

If you're a four-rings devotee but can't bear looking at another set of taillights, then you'll be happy to learn that noted Volkswagen/Audi tuner ABT Sportsline has turned its attention on the SQ5, enhancing its engine and chassis and endowing it with aggressive new aerodynamics that'll turn heads as fast as it snaps them back on launch.

The touchstone of the ABT Sportsline Audi SQ5 kit is a unique software upgrade that uncorks 440 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque, respective increases over the standard model of 78 and 37. ABT accomplishes that lofty task through a unique, separate engine control unit that leaves the stock computer completely untouched. That allows any reputable Audi mechanic or dealership to continue to service and diagnose the car, since all the factory components are left in place.

Thanks to the extra power (at least when running on gas with an octane rating of 98 RON or 93 AKI), ABT Sportsline claims that the SQ5 will hit 100 kilometers per hour (62 miles per hour) 0.3 seconds faster than the standard model, or 4.2 seconds total. That would likely correspond to a good ol' American 0-60 number of 4.1 seconds, putting it well ahead of the aforementioned X3 M50 and GLC 43 and just about neck and neck with the compact Porsche SUV. That shouldn't be surprising, considering the Audi's 440 ponies are ahead of the Bimmer's 393, the Mercedes' 416, and the Porsche's 434.

An Audi That Strikes A Stylish Pose
The full ABT Sportsline kit also includes a set of 1.8-inch lowering springs (on cars without air suspension, at least) that hunker the SQ5 down low over its likewise-new 22-inch wheels, giving it a sleek and mean stance while also improving cornering thanks to a lower center of gravity. But let's be honest here, most owners will opt for the new suspenders and rolling stock for their enhanced appearance, which the tuning company augments through a stylish body kit.

2026 Audi SQ5 by ABT Sportsline Exterior 3
The front end gets a new front splitter with chiseled winglets on the bumper corners, while there's a new insert for the rear diffuser that looks appropriately aggressive. And then there's the split-element roof spoiler, comprising a pair of mecha-style wings that attach to the stock piece. The new rear apron also incorporates the quad-exit exhaust outlets, finished in matte black stainless steel (and hopefully enhancing what is already a pretty fun engine note).

Although the ABT exemplar's electric blue paint may not show it, the styling upgrades are actually reasonably subtle, and we genuinely think they look good – something that can't always be said of the tuner crowd's aerodynamic adjustments. ABT even offers its EVO sport wheels in a 20-inch size for those who'd prefer a stealthier look and the added pothole protection of some tire sidewall.

Paying The Price For Performance
Unfortunately, nothing comes free in this world, and the ABT Sportsline Audi SQ5 tuning kit is no exception. Pricing for its American equivalent hasn't been revealed just yet, but in Europe, the full setup will cost 20,000 euros, or around $23,000 at current exchange rates. If that price holds true when the kit crosses the pond, that would turn the $64,800 SQ5 into an $88,000 SUV, even without any factory options. That's quite a bit more expensive than any of its rivals, although it does still undercut the $93,100 Porsche Macan GTS by a few grand.

Whether all that cost makes sense considering the only mechanical upgrades are a set of springs and revised engine software is a personal decision. ABT Sportsline will probably offer its performance enhancements à la carte for those who don't need the wheels or aero add-ons. But those who go whole-hog will at least get some appealing styling to go with their speed.