Abt Audi RS7-LE 1000: The Beast in Audi Clothing

Abt has taken the Audi RS7 Sportback and transformed it into a powerhouse with a carbon aerodynamics kit and an indirect water/ethanol injection system. The result? A ferocious 735 kW (1,000 hp) that redefines speed and power in Audi’s sleek silhouette.

Stealth Mode and Extreme Power

At first glance, this RS7 appears relatively unassuming. With a camouflaged wrap and a fixed rear spoiler, it could be mistaken for a mild aesthetic upgrade. But beneath this exterior lies a beast, courtesy of the Abt team in Kempten, Germany.

Starting with a stock RS7 Sportback’s 441 kW (600 hp) engine, Abt has dialed up the power with an IWI (Indirect Water/Ethanol Injection) system, unleashing a massive 735 kW (1,000 hp) and 1,150 Nm of torque from the 4.0-liter V8.

Mastering the Indirect Injection

The system works by injecting a water-ethanol mixture just before the throttle, cooling the air intake and adding power. An Abt-designed control unit precisely manages this injection. To keep everything running smoothly, Abt also installed a specialized intercooler and an additional oil cooler. This setup not only improves fuel combustion but also reduces the temperature in the intake, combustion chamber, and exhaust, ensuring long-lasting performance.

The vehicle’s ethanol mix is stored in a tank nestled within the spare wheel well, offering a range of about 3,000 kilometers. Refueling is done via the AdBlue filler, which Audi originally designed for its diesel models. Abt even supplies a 50-liter tank of this fuel blend at vehicle delivery. Once it runs out, drivers can easily order a refill through the MyAbt app, delivered right to their door.

Rebuilt for Peak Performance

Abt only accepts engines with under 15,000 kilometers, which are then disassembled and meticulously enhanced to handle the extra power. The upgrades include ball-bearing turbochargers, forged pistons, and strengthened connecting rods and piston pins. The car’s air intake is also upgraded with a carbon system and an exhaust redesign, ensuring optimal airflow and cooling.

The base Audi RS7 is already powerful, with 441 kW (600 hp). Abt’s upgrade adds three power stages: 603 kW (820 hp), 691 kW (940 hp), and the top 735 kW (1,000 hp). The top figure requires 102-octane fuel, while 98-octane caps power at 691 kW (940 hp) and 1,050 Nm—still far more than enough for most drivers.

Real-World Performance

Warming up on scenic country roads, we find the Abt RS7 sharp and responsive, even in curves. It takes about 80°C for the oil temperature to reach optimal levels for the upgraded system. Abt’s custom app, integrated with Apple CarPlay, displays vital data on the infotainment screen, allowing drivers to activate the system by pressing the RS button and switching into Race mode. Once activated, the RS7 truly comes alive, rocketing from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.0 seconds, with a top speed of 330 km/h.

On the Autobahn, the RS7 cruises effortlessly. Even at 180 km/h, it feels like a leisurely 60 km/h. Pressing down on the throttle launches us forward, forcing us into the sports seats with each surge of torque. The V8 growls with an intoxicating exhaust note, enhanced by the whistling turbos and the deep bass of the exhaust system. Yet, it’s the relentless pull at higher speeds that leaves the biggest impression. The Abt RS7 remains stable and composed, giving the driver full confidence.

A Premium Powerhouse Comes at a Price

This exhilarating experience doesn’t come cheap. Abt’s tuning alone costs €205,000, excluding the base Audi RS7 Sportback, which starts at €130,500. Altogether, that brings the total to €335,500—a substantial investment.

But for those who can afford it, the Abt RS7-LE 1000 delivers supercar performance wrapped in a practical, everyday Audi package. This recipe for discreet power has been a hit; Abt’s workshop is filled with RS7s awaiting their transformation.