Audi Q5 55 TFSI e gets power boost from ABT Sportsline

German tuning firm ABT Sportsline has modified its first hybrid, the Audi Q5 55 TFSI e. ABT has increased the power output of the car’s 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine from 252 to 306bhp, but left the electric motor as standard; total output is 419bhp, up from the standard car’s 362bhp. Torque is quoted at 550Nm.

ABT hasn't explicitly stated how its power increases are achieved, but a remap of the car’s ECU is the most likely answer. The same package is available on the lower-output TFSI 50 e model. Power is lower here due to a less potent standard electric motor; total output here is 352bhp, up from 295bhp; torque increases from 450 to 500Nm.

The ABT Q5 does without any big changes to its exterior: a set of the firm’s 20-inch alloys is all that gives the game away. ABT has subtle interior styling options, however, including new puddle lights and trims for the start/stop button and gearknob.

ABT hasn't released figures for improvements in acceleration or top speed for either model, but it’s likely that the modifications will have cut a few tenths off the 0-62mph time. Top speed should stay at 148mph.

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Prices have yet to be released, and it's not yet clear if these modifications will invalidate the warranty on UK-market Q5s – although ABT is known for its close relationship with the Volkswagen Group in this respect. The firm offers its own warranty on its aftermarket services, but only in selected European countries. 

ABT Sportsline isn’t the first German tuner to take on electrified cars: tuning house Novitec has already produced tuning and styling parts for the Tesla Model S, Model X and, most recently, the Model 3.