Be afraid: ABT wants to modify the new Audi RS6

ABT hearts the Audi RS6, but judging by this initial teaser sketch of an upcoming ‘Power-Avant’, we’re not so sure the Audi RS6 hearts ABT. It doesn’t look particularly pleased to be here.

Not that it matters, because the regular, brand new Audi RS6 – officially Top Gear’s Family Car of the Year! – isn’t exactly singing in a field of unicorns either. So, ABT's mission is to turn an already-aggressive family wagon into a heroically angry one. Prepare for the ABT RS6-R.

We’re filling space here because ABT has only announced an intention to modify the new Audi RS6, hence the teaser sketches. “With the help of the high-tech control unit ABT Engine Control,” the company explains, “we are already offering an increase in performance for the RS6.”

Makes sense; the normal RS6 can only offer up 592bhp from its twin-turbo V8, and a middling 0-62mph time of 3.6s. Clearly, ABT laughs in the face of such ridiculously low performance metrics.

It once did ungodly things to the old RS6, pumping it up to 725bhp. You can work out the rest. Stay tuned, because this thing is scheduled for – in ABT’s very own words – “calendar week 7 2020”.

As we type, word has reached us that Calendar Week 7 2020 has currently abdicated its position and is seeking alternative employment.