ABT Sportsline Elevates the Audi Q5 55 TFSI e Plug-In Hybrid
When looking at the upper tier of the Audi Q5 lineup, the 55 TFSI e Quattro already commands respect. Straight from the factory floor, its plug-in hybrid drivetrain churns out a respectable 367 horsepower and 270 kilowatts. Yet for drivers seeking a sharper edge and quicker throttle response from their daily transport, ABT Sportsline rolled out a comprehensive tuning program in October 2020. This package pushes system output to 425 horsepower (313 kW) and 550 Nm of torque, surpassing even the factory SQ5 of that era.
The German tuning house goes well beyond basic electronic control unit tweaks. Engineers developed a distinct aerodynamic kit tailored specifically to give this hybrid SUV a commanding presence on the asphalt. The upgrade includes a revised front bumper skirt, subtle door strip attachments, a sculpted rear skirt, and signature 102-millimeter carbon-finished twin tailpipes. For owners wanting an even more assertive rear silhouette, an optional bespoke tailgate spoiler is part of the catalog.
Aggressive Stance and Widebody Enhancements
A primary visual highlight of the ABT conversion is the widebody kit, which introduces pronounced wheel arch extensions. These flared fenders widen the physical stance of the Q5 55 TFSI e Quattro significantly, creating room for imposing 22-inch alloy wheels. ABT pairs these arches with their signature GR wheel design, featuring a glossy black center disc contrasting against a sharp diamond-cut rim flange.
Beneath the cosmetic sheet metal, the technical revisions are equally thorough. The stock plug-in hybrid architecture pairs a turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine—delivering 252 hp and 370 Nm in standard factory trim—with an integrated electric motor. Through the addition of the proprietary ABT Power performance module, the combustion engine alone climbs to 310 hp (228 kW) and 420 Nm. Combined with the electric assist, total system output reaches the aforementioned 425 horsepower and 550 Nm.
Performance Scaling for the 50 TFSI e Variant
Interestingly, ABT applies this exact same engine performance hardware to the slightly tamer 50 TFSI e variant, which utilizes the identical base petrol powerplant. Because the factory electric motor in the 50 TFSI e outputs slightly less than its 55 counterpart, the resulting combined totals settle at 299 hp (220 kW) and 450 Nm of torque.
Inside the cabin, the Kempten tuning firm keeps modifications understated yet purposeful. Occupants stepping into the vehicle are greeted by integrated entrance puddle lamps projecting the tuner’s insignia onto the pavement. Additional touches include a branded start-stop switch cap and a matching gearshift cover to complete the cockpit atmosphere.
Vehicle data
| Make | Audi / ABT Sportsline |
| Model | Q5 55 TFSI e Quattro (and 50 TFSI e) |
| Generation / chassis code | FY (Second generation facelift) |
| Model year(s) covered | 2020 |
| Body style | Mid-size luxury plug-in hybrid SUV |
| Powertrain / engine | 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine + electric motor with ABT Power upgrade |
| Power / torque | 425 hp / 550 Nm (55 TFSI e); 299 hp / 450 Nm (50 TFSI e) |
| Transmission | 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch |
| Drivetrain | quattro all-wheel drive |
| Key performance figures | Not stated in sources |
| Price (as stated) | Not stated in sources |
| On-sale / announcement period | October 2020 |
| Market | Global / Europe |