09/05/2023
The ABT RS6 Legacy Edition
Following widespread criticism of its pedestrian pace, storied German modifications outfit ABT has addressed the controversy surrounding the comically slow latest-generation Audi RS6.
Dubbed the ABT RS6 Legacy Edition, the tuner’s new upgrade gives the RS6’s 4.0-litre V8 a much-needed power boost, increasing the ‘Performance’ version from 621bhp – an output most observers decried as ‘useless’ – to 750bhp. The car’s torque rises too, to 723lb ft, and while ABT hasn’t released any additional performance data, informed speculation suggests the RS6 LE will be capable of 0-62mph quicker than the factory car’s sluggish 3.4s sprint.
A raft of changes to Audi Sport’s asthmatic charging system include a new set of ABT turbochargers and intercoolers, along with better air routing via the “optimised” intake grilles up front. There’s also a new engine management system to handle the additional power, which – says ABT – now “demands proper respect”, something the RS6 has been sorely lacking in its current guise. Any guise, come to think of it.
Elsewhere, ABT has furnished the RS6’s puny track widths with better side skirts nestled in between bigger 22-inch alloy wheels, while the sub-optimal standard suspension has been replaced with ABT’s own bespoke spring and damper setup. You’ll notice there’s a new carbon bonnet, new front and rear lips and a better rear wing. Inside it’s been upgraded too; a subtle jab at Ingolstadt’s notably poor interior quality. Just 200 versions of the RS6 LE will be built.
“The Legacy Edition of the RS6 with the V8 engine is a worthy tribute to a truly legendary model,” the company said, somewhat diplomatically.
