Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[ABT has big plans for the little Volkswagen Beetle]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/08/abt-has-big-plans-for-the-little-volkswagen-beetle/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/08/abt-has-big-plans-for-the-little-volkswagen-beetle/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/08/abt-has-big-plans-for-the-little-volkswagen-beetle/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Volkswagen Beetle by ABT Sportsline
2012 Volkswagen Beetle by ABT Sportsline - Click above for high-res image gallery

Squint your eyes just so and a Volkswagen Beetle can start looking like a Porsche 911. And with good reason: the two were designed by the same man using the same basic principles. So with common heritage, it's little wonder that the latest model is already started to follow its sportier brother's lead. No, we don't mean an endless array of special editions from the manufacturer - we mean tuning packages. And lots of them.

Just like the 911 attracts aftermarket tuners by the truckload, undoubtedly so will the new Beetle, and ABT Sportsline is among the first to line up. The German tuning house has big plans for the sportier new bug, from full aero kits and upsized rolling stock to suspension tuning and extensive engine mods. ABT figures it can get the base 1.2-liter TSI up from 105 horsepower to 140, the 1.4 from 160 to 210, and the 2.0 from 200 to 230, with similar gains for the diesel models, as well.

Sounds promising, and to keep our interest piqued, ABT has released a couple of renderings of what we can expect. Check 'em out along with the press release after the jump.

Continue reading ABT has big plans for the little Volkswagen Beetle

ABT has big plans for the little Volkswagen Beetle originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Jul 2011 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abtabt sportslinebeetlenew beetlevolkswagenvolkswagen beetlevwvw beetleFri, 08 Jul 2011 15:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19985321/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/08/abt-has-big-plans-for-the-little-volkswagen-beetle/19985321/article-detail.xml 19985321 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/webabtspeedle01_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/webabtspeedle01.jpg <![CDATA[Geneva 2011: ABT R8 GTS begs for attention]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/02/abt-audi-r8-gts-spyder-geneva-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/02/abt-audi-r8-gts-spyder-geneva-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/02/abt-audi-r8-gts-spyder-geneva-debut/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Abt R8 GTS
2011 Audi R8 GTS - Click above for high-res image gallery

Audi tuner ABT Sportline has released its latest take on Ingolstadt's 2011 lineup in the form of the R8 GTS, a worked-over version of Audi's R8 5.2 FSI V10 Cabrio.

In ABT guise, the V10 has been boosted to 620 horsepower - a 95-hp gain over the stock mill. To accentuate the power just a little more, ABT has gotten liberal with the carbon fiber and carbon fiber-reinforced plastic, shaving some weight off the R8's frame. The result is a 3.6-second 0-60 sprint.

The exterior has been dipped in a "self confident" red chrome paint, and new composite pieces include the front and rear skirts, the engine cover, the air intakes, and the windshield frame cover. The 2011 ABT R8 GTS rides on a set of 19 or 20-inch custom ABT wheels. Inside, the dress-up kit continues the red carbon fiber theme on the steering wheel, console and door panels.

If you're a fan of the extroverted, check out the gallery below for the official images as well as our live shots from the show floor, and hit the jump for the official press release from ABT.


Gallery: ABT R8 GTS: Geneva 2011


Gallery: 2011 ABT R8 GTS

2011 ABT Audi R8 GTS front2011 Audi R8 GTS top side2011 ABT Audi R8 GTS side2011 ABT Audi R8 GTS front2011 ABT Audi R8 GTS rear

Live photos copyright (C)2011 Drew Phillips / AOL

[Source: ABT]

Continue reading Geneva 2011: ABT R8 GTS begs for attention

Geneva 2011: ABT R8 GTS begs for attention originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Mar 2011 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abtabt audi r8abt audi r8 gtsabt r8 gtsaudigenevageneva 2011geneva motor showr8r8 spyderr8 v10R8 V10 spyderWed, 02 Mar 2011 08:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19863323/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/02/abt-audi-r8-gts-spyder-geneva-debut/19863323/article-detail.xml 19863323 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/abt-r8-gts-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/abt-r8-gts-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[2011 Audi AS8 by ABT]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/24/2011-audi-as8-by-abt/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/24/2011-audi-as8-by-abt/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/24/2011-audi-as8-by-abt/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



German tuner ABT has released word (and pictures) of the first tuned 2011 Audi A8 we know about, the AS8. ABT freely admits that the new A8 is pretty sporty on its own. Therefore, the AS8 package seeks to "underline" what Audi's already done in terms of huge, sporting luxo-bargeness. To wit, "[ABT] has not changed the elegant glider into a racing car, but carefully into a confident and sporty automobile."

Naturally, ABT started with a version of the A8 we can't get here in the States, the diesel. In stock form, Audi's 4.2-liter TDI V8 produces a healthy 350 horsepower and a yacht-towing 590 pound-feet of torque. In ABT trim however, the sparkless mill churns out 385 hp and a foundation-shifting 649 lb-ft of torque. The car's 0-60 time falls from the factory's 5.5 seconds to around five flat. Quite good for a 4,300+ pound oil burner, no?

Of course it would be in very bad form to just hop up the engine and leave the rest of the car stock -- how would anyone know you're driving a tuner? To that end, ABT has gone on and designed a body kit for the AS8. This kit primarily consists of a front spoiler with a splitter, side sills and a rear-end apron enclosing new tail pipes. There's also a three-piece rear spoiler and 21-inch wheels. We've never been totally sold on the looks of the 2011 A8, so while the ABT treatment helps in some respects (the rear looks excellent), it doesn't help much in others. Specifically the droopy looking sides and over-sized schnoz. But hey, at least they're trying.


Gallery: ABT Audi AS8


[Source: ABT]

2011 Audi AS8 by ABT originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 24 Jun 2010 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 A82011 Audi A82011A82011AudiA8ABTABT AS8ABT AS8 DieselABT Audi AS8AbtAs8AbtAs8DieselAbtAudiAs8AudiAudi A8Audi A8 DieselAudi A8 TDIAudiA8AudiA8DieselAudiA8TdiThu, 24 Jun 2010 17:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19529628/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/06/24/2011-audi-as8-by-abt/19529628/article-detail.xml 19529628 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/630abt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/630abt.jpg <![CDATA[Abt Sportsline gets its hands on Audi R8 Spyder]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/15/abt-sportsline-gets-its-hands-on-audi-r8-spyder/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/15/abt-sportsline-gets-its-hands-on-audi-r8-spyder/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/15/abt-sportsline-gets-its-hands-on-audi-r8-spyder/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Abt Sportline R8 Spyder - Click above for high-res image gallery

Whenever Audi introduces a new model, chances are that the folks at Abt Sportsline are going to get their hands on one. The German company has been tuning Volkswagens and Audis since the 1970s and has enjoyed success racing the Audi A4 in DTM and more recently the new R8 LMS. Needless to say, Abt knows how to properly modify cars bearing the four rings.

Abt's latest project is the droptop version of the Audi R8. Visually the car gets a new front grille, front fascia with carbon fiber spoiler, side sills, rear fascia, rear spoiler and lightweight five-spoke wheels. Even more importantly, the 5.2-liter V10 has been massaged to provide 600 horsepower, good for 0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 199 mph. Finally, Abt provides a sport suspension system for improved handling. Follow the jump for full details and browse through the high-res gallery below.


Gallery: Abt Sportsline R8 Spyder


[Source: ABT Sportline]

Continue reading Abt Sportsline gets its hands on Audi R8 Spyder

Abt Sportsline gets its hands on Audi R8 Spyder originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Mar 2010 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 audi r8 spyder2010AudiR8Spyderabtabt r8 spyderabt sportlineabt sportline r8 spyderAbtR8SpyderAbtSportlineAbtSportlineR8Spyderaudiaudi r8 spyderAudiR8Spyderr8 spyderR8SpyderMon, 15 Mar 2010 19:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19399497/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/15/abt-sportsline-gets-its-hands-on-audi-r8-spyder/19399497/article-detail.xml 19399497 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/leadabtsportliner8spyder_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/leadabtsportliner8spyder.jpg <![CDATA[Geneva 2010: Abt R8 GTR is full of V10, carbon fiber goodness]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/03/geneva-2010-abt-r8-gtr-is-full-of-v10-carbon-fiber-goodness/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/03/geneva-2010-abt-r8-gtr-is-full-of-v10-carbon-fiber-goodness/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/03/geneva-2010-abt-r8-gtr-is-full-of-v10-carbon-fiber-goodness/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Abt R8 GTR - Click above for high-res image gallery

We got our first peek at Abt's R8 GTR late last year, but like with many cars, it was a whole different experience to see it in person. To say carbon fiber has been used liberally is an understatement, as the entire car is clothed in the lightweight material. The look suits the R8, and Abt has managed to give the car a more aggressive look without going overboard. The interior is lathered in carbon fiber as well, and lightweight Recaro racing seats help reduce weight even further. In total, Abt has managed to take 220 pounds off the R8's heft.

In addition to changing the look of the car, Abt has given the R8 more power as well. Its 5.2-liter V10 is now rated at 620 horsepower, good for a 0-100 km/h sprint of 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 202 mph. Other performance upgrades include an adjustable sport suspension, ceramic brake system, lightweight 18-inch wheels and Michelin Sport Cup tires.

Sound like your thing? Abt will produce just 25 examples, so get your order in soon. More details about the car can be found in the press release after the jump and live shots from the show floor in the gallery below.


Gallery: Geneva 2010: Abt R8 GTR


Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Geneva 2010: Abt R8 GTR is full of V10, carbon fiber goodness

Geneva 2010: Abt R8 GTR is full of V10, carbon fiber goodness originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Mar 2010 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 geneva motor show2010GenevaMotorShowabtabt r8abt r8 gtrAbtR8AbtR8Gtraudiaudi r8audi r8 v10AudiR8AudiR8V10geneva 2010geneva motor showGeneva2010GenevaMotorShowWed, 03 Mar 2010 19:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19381027/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/03/geneva-2010-abt-r8-gtr-is-full-of-v10-carbon-fiber-goodness/19381027/article-detail.xml 19381027 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/leadabtr8gtrgenevalive_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/leadabtr8gtrgenevalive.jpg <![CDATA[Abt Sportline offers 600 horsepower, new look for the Audi R8 V10]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/01/abt-sportline-offers-600-horsepower-new-look-for-the-audi-r8-v1/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/01/abt-sportline-offers-600-horsepower-new-look-for-the-audi-r8-v1/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/01/abt-sportline-offers-600-horsepower-new-look-for-the-audi-r8-v1/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Abt Audi R8 V10 - Click above for a high-res image gallery

After sampling the V10 version of Audi's R8, we can't imagine changing much of Audi's mid-engine road rocket if one happened to find its way into our garage. Still, there some owners will want to mess with perfection and Abt Sportline is offering a performance package that delivers an extra 75 horsepower, rounding out the total to an even 600 horsepower from the 5.2-liter V10. If those same owners deem the R8's beautiful lines lacking, they can also choose to purchase Abt's carbon fiber exterior components consisting of a new front spoiler, side sills, rear apron, rear wing, along with quad exhaust tips and BR-type five-spoke wheels. We've got to commend Abt for providing the option, but we'll pass.


Gallery: Abt Audi R8 V10


Continue reading Abt Sportline offers 600 horsepower, new look for the Audi R8 V10

Abt Sportline offers 600 horsepower, new look for the Audi R8 V10 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Sep 2009 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AbtAbt Audi R8Abt Audi R8 V10Abt R8Abt SportlineAbtAudiR8AbtAudiR8V10AbtR8AbtSportlineAudiAudi R8Audi R8 V10AudiR8AudiR8V10R8R8 V10R8V10Tue, 01 Sep 2009 18:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19144077/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/09/01/abt-sportline-offers-600-horsepower-new-look-for-the-audi-r8-v1/19144077/article-detail.xml 19144077 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/08/abt_r8_schwarz_lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/08/abt_r8_schwarz_lead.jpg <![CDATA[Abt gives a boost to the 2010 VW Golf, GTI]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/14/abt-gives-a-boost-to-the-2010-vw-golf-gti/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/14/abt-gives-a-boost-to-the-2010-vw-golf-gti/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/14/abt-gives-a-boost-to-the-2010-vw-golf-gti/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Abt Volkswagen GTI MkVI - Click above for high-res image gallery

The sixth-generation Golf and GTI will soon arrive for 2010, and already, Abt Sportline - the largest Volkswagen tuner in the world - has released a variety of aftermarket parts for each. Starting with the new exterior, Abt adds a new front fascia and grill, side skirts, and rear fascia and spoiler. Wheel options come in 18- or 19-inch sizes, with or without sport rubber. Brakes can be upgraded to 345mm or 380mm sizes, and lowering springs can be fitted to provide a sportier ride and eliminate the VW's unsightly wheel gap.

Volkswagen has always left plenty of room for increased potential with its turbocharged engines, and Abt maximizes that with performance packages for the entire range. The GTI's 207-horsepower (197 here in the States) 2.0-liter turbo-four gets boosted to 240 horsepower, while the 2.0-liter diesel engine in the Golf TDI is pushed from 140 to 170 horsepower. The European-only 1.4-liter motor also gets a significant increase in performance, going from 122 to 160 horsepower. Full details on all of the available upgrades from Abt after the jump.


Gallery: Abt GTI MkVI


Gallery: Abt Golf VI


[Source: Abt Sportline]

Continue reading Abt gives a boost to the 2010 VW Golf, GTI

Abt gives a boost to the 2010 VW Golf, GTI originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 Jul 2009 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 VW Golf2010 VW GTI2010VwGolf2010VwGtiAbtAbt Golf MkVIAbt SportlineAbt VW GTI MkVIAbtGolfMkviAbtSportlineAbtVwGtiMkviVWVW GolfVW GTIVW GTI MkViVwGolfVwGtiVwGtiMkviTue, 14 Jul 2009 09:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19092408/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/07/14/abt-gives-a-boost-to-the-2010-vw-golf-gti/19092408/article-detail.xml 19092408 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/07/2010abtgti_lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/07/2010abtgti_lead.jpg <![CDATA[ABT gets its hands all over the KTM X-Bow]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/12/abt-gets-its-hands-all-over-the-ktm-x-bow/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/12/abt-gets-its-hands-all-over-the-ktm-x-bow/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/12/abt-gets-its-hands-all-over-the-ktm-x-bow/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above to view the ABT X-Bow in high resolution

Think of the most extreme vehicles on the road, and if you're brushed up on your adventurous automobiles, the KTM X-Bow should come to mind. Made by the Austrian motorcycle manufacturer and looking something like a Transformer caught between car and robot modes, the X-Bow is about as extreme as they come. So ABT has decided to tinker with it a bit.

The result of the German tuning firm's poking and prying is a boost to the 2.0-liter TFSI mill from the standard 240 horsepower, which was good enough to propel the lightweight track-day special to 60 in 3.9 seconds, up to 300 horsepower, which should be enough to tear your face right off. Now if you're thinking that the X-Bow is already in such high demand that ABT isn't likely to get its hands on one, think again: the tuning house will act as the X-Bow's official sales and service agent. Hilarity, in the form of wicked tail-slides and curb assaults, should ensue.

Gallery: ABT KTM X-Bow


[Source: ABT Sportsline]

ABT gets its hands all over the KTM X-Bow originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Feb 2009 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ab ktm x-bowAbKtmX-bowabtabt ktmabt ktm x bowabt sportslineabt x bowabt x-bowAbtKtmAbtKtmXBowAbtSportslineAbtX-bowAbtXBowktmx bowx-bowxbowThu, 12 Feb 2009 18:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1458016/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/02/12/abt-gets-its-hands-all-over-the-ktm-x-bow/1458016/article-detail.xml 1458016 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/02/abt-xbowweb_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/02/abt-xbowweb.jpg <![CDATA[SEMA 2008: GGI Tuning to carry Abt, including hot Audi AS5]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/08/sema-2008-ggi-tuning-to-carry-abt-including-hot-audi-as5/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/08/sema-2008-ggi-tuning-to-carry-abt-including-hot-audi-as5/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/08/sema-2008-ggi-tuning-to-carry-abt-including-hot-audi-as5/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the Abt AS5 available from GGI Tuning
We've talked about Abt Sportsline's sweet range of upgraded VW and Audi offerings before, but now we have some additional good news. As you probably know if you're reading this blog, Abt offers lots of mods for the A4 and A5, including relatively subtle body kits, new wheels, a sport suspension, a freer-flowing exhaust system, and a variety of power upgrades. You really can't go wrong when you start with such good rolling stock, but some tuners manage to botch it anyhow. In the case of the Audi A5, the manufacturer already does a pretty good job with the upragdes when it turns it into an S5, but Abt goes a step or two further with pretty good results.

The Abt AS5 is one hot sports coupe, even in a refrigerator white that might seem uninspring at first glance. The one we saw here at SEMA was actually over at the Hlton. It popped up during one of the afterparties that always makes this such a fun show to attend. In this case it was at the GGI European Tuning bash where the shop was announcing their new distribution deal with the German tuner. GGI European Tuning is already the exclusive North American importer for Carlsson, Hartge and Sportec, but now they can add Abt Sportsline to the marquee. It's already one of our favorite coupes, so knowing it might be easier to get a nicely modded version in the States makes us even happier.

Gallery: SEMA 2008: GGI Tuning to offer At AS5


Photos copyright (C)2008 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

SEMA 2008: GGI Tuning to carry Abt, including hot Audi AS5 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 08 Nov 2008 14:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abtabt as5abt sportslineAbtAs5AbtSportslineaudi a5Audi AS5audi s5AudiA5AudiAs5AudiS5GGI TuningGgiTuningSat, 08 Nov 2008 14:12:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1362539/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/11/08/sema-2008-ggi-tuning-to-carry-abt-including-hot-audi-as5/1362539/article-detail.xml 1362539 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/11/abtas5---450_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/11/abtas5---450.jpg <![CDATA[ABT Sportsline tweaks the Audi Q5]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/24/abt-sportsline-tweaks-the-audi-q5/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/24/abt-sportsline-tweaks-the-audi-q5/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/24/abt-sportsline-tweaks-the-audi-q5/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a hi-res gallery of the ABT Q5

Every time a new Volkswagen or Audi is released, German tuner ABT Sportsline can be relied upon to come up with performance and appearance packages to enhance them. The latest ride to get attention is the Audi Q5, and as you can see in the renderings ABT sent out, the body kit helps matters, because the showroom-trim Q5 is actually pretty vanilla-looking. The new visuals are backed up by a modified suspension, 20" wheels, more braking power, and performance upgrades for each available engine. Depending on which mill is nestled underhood, horsepower in the ABT-tuned Q5 ranges from 240 horsepower for the 2.0 TFSI all the way up to 310 horses for the 3.0 TDI with the Power S package.

Gallery: ABT Sportsline Audi Q5


[Source: ABT Sportsline]

Continue reading ABT Sportsline tweaks the Audi Q5

ABT Sportsline tweaks the Audi Q5 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 24 Aug 2008 11:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abtabt sportslineAbtSportslineaudiq5sportslineSun, 24 Aug 2008 11:07:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1292801/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/08/24/abt-sportsline-tweaks-the-audi-q5/1292801/article-detail.xml 1292801 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/08/abt_q5_45001_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/08/abt_q5_45001.jpg <![CDATA[ABTrainer: VW tuner pumps up the Passat CC]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/30/abtrainer-vw-tuner-pumps-up-the-passat-cc/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/30/abtrainer-vw-tuner-pumps-up-the-passat-cc/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/30/abtrainer-vw-tuner-pumps-up-the-passat-cc/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the ABT Passat CC

"C" is for comfort, but that's not good enough for ABT. The German tuning house has taken Volkswagen's sleek new Passat Comfort Coupe (CC) and given it a little more grunt. The 1.8-liter TSI goes up from 160hp to 200, the 2.0 TSI from 200 to 240, with the diesel versions up more conservatively from 140 to 170 and from 170 to 190. Suspension upgrades and a choice of wheels in 18-20 inches are also thrown into the mix, with a visual upgrades package to follow. Check out the trio of images in the gallery below.

Gallery: Abt Volkswagen Passat CC

[Source: ABT]

ABTrainer: VW tuner pumps up the Passat CC originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Jul 2008 08:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abtabt passatabt passat ccabt volkswagenabt volkswagen passat ccabt vwabt vw passat ccAbtPassatAbtPassatCcAbtVolkswagenAbtVolkswagenPassatCcAbtVwAbtVwPassatCcpassatpassat ccPassatCcvolkswagenvolkswagen passat ccVolkswagenPassatCcvw passat ccVwPassatCcWed, 30 Jul 2008 08:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1268078/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/07/30/abtrainer-vw-tuner-pumps-up-the-passat-cc/1268078/article-detail.xml 1268078 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/07/abt-passat-cc-1web_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/07/abt-passat-cc-1web.jpg <![CDATA[Rabbit on 'roids: Abt tunes the Volkswagen R32]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/12/rabbit-on-roids-abt-tunes-the-volkswagen-r32/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/12/rabbit-on-roids-abt-tunes-the-volkswagen-r32/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/12/rabbit-on-roids-abt-tunes-the-volkswagen-r32/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high resolution version

It was only a matter of time before Abt got its hands on a Volkswagen R32. The hot hatch is no slouch in stock form with 250 horsepower, but Abt has boosted output to 370 bhp via a supercharger complete with a water-cooled intercooler. This knocks the 0-60 mph time down to 5.0 seconds flat and raises the top speed to 167 mph. Abt has also fitted the R32 with an adjustable sport suspension, as well as 19-inch BR wheels. Follow the jump for the press release.

Gallery: Abt Volkswagen R32


[Source: Abt Sportline]

Continue reading Rabbit on 'roids: Abt tunes the Volkswagen R32

Rabbit on 'roids: Abt tunes the Volkswagen R32 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 12 Apr 2008 09:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AbtAbt SportlineAbt Volkswagen R32Abt VW R32AbtSportlineAbtVolkswagenR32AbtVwR32R32VolkswagenVWSat, 12 Apr 2008 09:34:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1165090/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/04/12/rabbit-on-roids-abt-tunes-the-volkswagen-r32/1165090/article-detail.xml 1165090 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/04/abtr32lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/04/abtr32lead.jpg <![CDATA[Pics Aplenty: Abt Audi R8]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/01/pics-aplenty-abt-audi-r8/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/01/pics-aplenty-abt-audi-r8/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/01/pics-aplenty-abt-audi-r8/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Abt R8
Click images for hi-res gallery

Last night, we showed you updated photos of Audi's A4 and A5 as reworked by Germany's Abt Sportsline. Tonight, we have a similar set of new shots from the same tuner, only this time the subject is the Audi R8, a car that doesn't need a whole lot of work to begin with. Abt leaves the engine alone, instead supplying a sport suspension, a brake upgrade, and new 20" wheels.

Abt R8On the visual side, the car gets carbon fiber skirts and rear spoiler, along with replacement front and rear clips that tone down the oversized factory grillework on both ends. The front openings are now angled and feature colored CF inserts. Matching colored pieces are added to the sideblades and the rear end, too. The new rear bumper cover incorporates a diffuser-style bottom, smaller vents, and diagonal outlets for the exhaust tips. Pretty good stuff, if you ask us, and if the colored elements don't float your boat, you can probably go for a more standard look. Assuming you have an R8 for them to work on, that is.

[Source: Abt Sportsline]

Gallery: Abt R8

Pics Aplenty: Abt Audi R8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Feb 2008 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abtabt sportslineAbtSportslineaudi r8AudiR8R8Fri, 01 Feb 2008 20:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1104573/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/02/01/pics-aplenty-abt-audi-r8/1104573/article-detail.xml 1104573 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/02/abt_audir8_002lo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/02/abt_audir8_002lo.jpg <![CDATA[Pics Aplenty: Abt AS4 and AS5]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/31/pics-aplenty-abt-as4-and-as5/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/31/pics-aplenty-abt-as4-and-as5/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/31/pics-aplenty-abt-as4-and-as5/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


click either image for high-res galleries

We touched on Abt Sportsline's range of upgrades for the current VW and Audi offerings during last year's Essen Motor Show. Unfortunately, we only had drab-looking photos back then, and frankly, the dark backgrounds didn't do much to liven up the looks of the cars.

Abt AS4Since then, Abt has seen fit to produce complete photo sets that show off the company's modifications far better than the earlier images. The available mods are spelled out here, but in both cases, Abt can transform the A4 or A5 with a subtle body kit (especially when compared to some other tuners), new wheels, a sport suspension, a freer-flowing exhaust system, and a variety of power upgrades. In a perfect world where we could have the Euro-spec diesels, we'd happily opt for the Abt-tuned 3.0 TDI. In both cars, it packs 300 horsepower and a stout 442 lb-ft of torque. Yeah, we could get around just fine with that. Check out the new photos in the galleries below.

[Source: Abt Sportsline]

Gallery: Abt AS4


Gallery: Abt AS5

Pics Aplenty: Abt AS4 and AS5 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 31 Jan 2008 19:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>A4A5AbtAbt AS4Abt As5abt sportslineAbtAs4AbtAs5AbtSportslineAS4AS5Thu, 31 Jan 2008 19:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1091076/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/01/31/pics-aplenty-abt-as4-and-as5/1091076/article-detail.xml 1091076 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/01/abtas5new_02_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/01/abtas5new_02_opt.jpg <![CDATA[Essen 2007: Abt unfurls tuned Audi R8]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/30/essen-2007-abt-unfurls-tuned-audi-r8/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/30/essen-2007-abt-unfurls-tuned-audi-r8/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/30/essen-2007-abt-unfurls-tuned-audi-r8/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Abt Sportline has debuted its own version of the Audi R8 at the Essen Motor Show with a few changes from the tangerine-colored rendering that we first saw back in April. The front side grills now sport vertical slats instead of horizontal, and the hood is stock rather than a lightweight carbon fiber unit. Another visual difference is the 2-piece side blades, and there is no mention of the supercharger that Abt originally talked about. Still on the car is a carbon fiber rear fascia with quad exhaust, side skirts, rear wing, and front splitter. Abt also adds its own 20-inch wheels, sport suspension system, and massive 15-inch brakes.

[Source: Abt Sportline]

Gallery: Abt Sportline Audi R8

Continue reading Essen 2007: Abt unfurls tuned Audi R8

Essen 2007: Abt unfurls tuned Audi R8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Nov 2007 15:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AbtAbt Audi R8Abt R8AbtAudiR8AbtR8AudiAudi R8AudiR8Fri, 30 Nov 2007 15:25:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1051051/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2007/11/30/essen-2007-abt-unfurls-tuned-audi-r8/1051051/article-detail.xml 1051051 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/11/abtr8rlead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/11/abtr8rlead.jpg <![CDATA[Abt tunes the VW Tiguan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/13/abt-tunes-the-vw-tiguan/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/13/abt-tunes-the-vw-tiguan/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/13/abt-tunes-the-vw-tiguan/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Next month's Essen Motor Show will feature a ton of tuned vehicles from Europe's best and brightest, and among them will be Abt's interpretation of the new Volkswagen Tiguan. The new crossover has just hit the market abroad, but Abt has already done its best to make this new cute 'ute stand out from its stock counterpart.

On the outside, a two-tone body kit plays off the Tiguan's relatively staid styling to create a substantially more aggressive persona, complete with new front and rear spoilers, flared wheel arches, side skirts and a larger front grille. Abt didn't get into specifics about what suspension modifications were performed to drop the Tiggy over optional 18-, 19- or 20-inch rollers, but new brakes are part of the package.

Buyers who opted for the 1.4-liter turbocharged FSI engine will get a significant boost in output from 150 HP to 200 HP, while the 2.0-liter turbodiesel can either be had in 170 HP or 200 HP flavors. There's no mention of torque figures for either engine, nor are there performance estimates available in the press release after the jump.

Gallery: Abt Volkswagen Tiguan

Continue reading Abt tunes the VW Tiguan

Abt tunes the VW Tiguan originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Nov 2007 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abtessen motor showEssenMotorShowtiguanvolkswagenvolkswagen tiguan abtVolkswagenTiguanAbtvwTue, 13 Nov 2007 18:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1039102/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2007/11/13/abt-tunes-the-vw-tiguan/1039102/article-detail.xml 1039102 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/11/abt_tiguan_450_op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/11/abt_tiguan_450_op.jpg <![CDATA[Bus a Move: Abt T5 Sport Plus package for VW Multivan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/05/bus-a-move-abt-t5-sport-plus-package-for-vw-multivan/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/05/bus-a-move-abt-t5-sport-plus-package-for-vw-multivan/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/05/bus-a-move-abt-t5-sport-plus-package-for-vw-multivan/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click image to enlarge

To celebrate the 60th birthday of the VW Bus, Abt Sportsline has worked some of its black magic on the T5 Multivan's TDI powerplants. The Abt-enhanced 1.9 TDI produces either 110 or 130 horses, while the tuned 2.5 TDI offers up either 160 or 195 HP. Torque increases by an unspecified amount in all applications as well. To complete the package, Abt recommends you add its upgraded springs, new wheel/tire combo, full body kit, and sport muffler. Euro buyers who want to blow out the candles and salute the 60 years of the Bus in style can begin doing so on December 31.

[Source: Abt Sportsline via Carscoop]

Bus a Move: Abt T5 Sport Plus package for VW Multivan originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Oct 2007 08:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abtabt sportslineAbt T5 Sport PlusAbtSportslineAbtT5SportPlusmultivant5 multivanT5Multivanvw multivanVwMultivanFri, 05 Oct 2007 08:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1005936/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2007/10/05/bus-a-move-abt-t5-sport-plus-package-for-vw-multivan/1005936/article-detail.xml 1005936 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/10/vwt5byabtsportslinelo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/10/vwt5byabtsportslinelo.jpg <![CDATA[Abt Sportsline announces Audi A5-based AS5]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/06/abt-sportsline-announces-audi-a5-based-as5/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/06/abt-sportsline-announces-audi-a5-based-as5/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/06/abt-sportsline-announces-audi-a5-based-as5/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click image for photo gallery

On the heels of its latest creation the Abt TT Roadster, Abt Sportsline has released the first renderings of its forthcoming AS5 coupe. Based on the hot new Audi A5 powered by the European-market 3.0 TDI engine, the AS5 gets all the thing's you'd expect from a tuner like this: updated bodywork, a new wheel/tire package, a choice of engine upgrades, a new exhaust system, and more.

The AS5's new aero kit is typical of the work Abt has done before, with tastefully inplemented skirts and spoilers, along with a rear diffuser and fender-mounted side extractors. Quad exhaust outlets lend musclular looks and sound to the after portion of the car, and the TDI will be upgradeable to power levels of 272 or 300 horsepower. Sport suspension and brake upgrades will also be made available, and owners can top everything off with a two-tone paint scheme if so desired. We're very curious to see how that looks in the metal.

[Source: Abt Sportsline]

Gallery: Abt AS5

Continue reading Abt Sportsline announces Audi A5-based AS5

Abt Sportsline announces Audi A5-based AS5 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Jul 2007 16:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a5abtabt as5abt sportslineabt sportsline as5AbtAs5AbtSportslineAbtSportslineAs5as5Fri, 06 Jul 2007 16:04:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/934557/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2007/07/06/abt-sportsline-announces-audi-a5-based-as5/934557/article-detail.xml 934557 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/07/abt_as5render_003lo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/07/abt_as5render_003lo.jpg <![CDATA[Abt tricks out Audi's TT Roadster]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/01/abt-adds-modded-tt-roadster-to-lineup/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/01/abt-adds-modded-tt-roadster-to-lineup/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/01/abt-adds-modded-tt-roadster-to-lineup/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click image for high-res gallery

Abt Sportsline strongest ties to the Audi TT date back to when they ran a race version in the 2002 DTM series. Outside of racing however, Abt is known for its work modifying and tuning cars that sport the interlocking rings, and with the arrival of the TT Roadster from Audi, they're back on the case with a suite of appearance and performance upgrades.

For starters, Abt's new aero kit tastefully muscles up the open-top 2-seater with new skirts and spoilers -- de rigeur for a tuner like this. The obligatory wheel/tire upgrade is also available in 19" and 20" diameters. A sport exhaust with quad outlets gives the TT's rear a more serious visual and aural presence, while underhood, go-fast measures can be taken regardless of what engine the car's equipped with. Abt's regimen for the 3.2L six-cylinder involves the addition of a supercharger that helps boost output to 355 horsepower -- enough to propel the TT ragtop from 0-62 mph in five seconds flat. The standard 2.0 TFSI powerplant is not ignored either, with tuning packages that offer everything from a modest bump to 240 horses to an even more serious kit that offers a robust 300 hp.

Full details from Abt are in the press release after the jump, and a gallery of the hot little roadster can be found below.

[Source: Abt Sportsline]

Gallery: Abt Sportsline TT Roadster

Continue reading Abt tricks out Audi's TT Roadster

Abt tricks out Audi's TT Roadster originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 01 Jul 2007 18:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abtabt sportslineabt tt roadsterAbtSportslineAbtTtRoadstertttt roadsterTtRoadsterSun, 01 Jul 2007 18:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/930452/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2007/07/01/abt-adds-modded-tt-roadster-to-lineup/930452/article-detail.xml 930452 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/07/abt_06_tt_roadster_lo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/07/abt_06_tt_roadster_lo.jpg <![CDATA[Abt set to tune Audi R8]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/11/ab-set-to-tune-audi-r8/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/11/ab-set-to-tune-audi-r8/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/11/ab-set-to-tune-audi-r8/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click image for high-res gallery

Abt Sportsline, the winning DTM racer and largest tuner for VW group cars, has released renderings of its Abt R8, an ubercoupe meant to challenge Maranello's F430, Porsche's 911 Turbo, and it's own cousin, the Lamborghini Gallardo.

Under the carbon fiber hood installed to lighten things up and maintain optimal weight distribution, Abt has bolted a supercharger onto the 4.2L V8 to scare up another 110 hp, for a final tally of 530. Four-wheel-drive through 20-inch wheels will blast it from 0-62 mph in 3.9 seconds and all the way to 197 mph -- the kind of catapulting that would be sure to peel the gold and burnt copper paint jobs right off those renderings. The monster will even come with an adjustable suspension (height, pressure, and rebound) so you can be just as comfy pulling into the valet as you are at F1 speeds.

To keep the ballistic Bavarian on the ground, the Abt R8 gets a restrained-yet-brutish front air dam, a new rear diffuser, sculpted side skirts, and an "extravagant" rear wing. Cosmetically, specially-designed sideblades accentuate the car, and as if that rear wing wouldn't be enough to let people know you're not cruising in any ordinary Audi, quad tailpipes are inclined at the corners of the revised rear end. The car will be available in autumn. The pics are available right now. Feast.

[Source: Abt Sportsline]

Gallery: Abt R8

Continue reading Abt set to tune Audi R8

Abt set to tune Audi R8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Apr 2007 16:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abtaudir8sportslineWed, 11 Apr 2007 16:23:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/872017/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2007/04/11/ab-set-to-tune-audi-r8/872017/article-detail.xml 872017 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/04/abt01_r8_lo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/04/abt01_r8_lo.jpg -1 2