As standard, the Audi RSQ8 gets a not-insignificant 600hp and 800Nm of torque from its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, meaning 0-100km/h in 3.8 seconds and a limited top speed of around 305km/h.

(Click HERE to read our First Drive of the Audi RS Q8)

Ask any sane human and they’ll probably tell you that’s plenty fast enough for a luxury SUV that weighs more than the factory it was built in. Ask ABT, though, and they’ll offer you a performance upgrade to reach a total of 700hp and 880Nm.

And then there’s Manhart.

The Wuppertal-based tuner has just announced its take on the bonkers-quick Urus-sibling – the RQ 900. Thanks to gearbox upgrades, bigger turbochargers, a new exhaust and ‘extensive modifications to the engine’, the RQ 900 puts out a whopping 900hp and 1080Nm of torque.

As you might have noticed from the pictures above, Manhart has also fitted a rather extensive body kit. Apparently the bonnet, front spoiler, diffuser, rear spoiler, side skirts and wheel arch extensions are all made from carbonfibre. Gloriously mad isn’t it? Thankfully the gold interior accents and exterior decals are optional, though.

Elsewhere there’s a 30mm drop in ride height thanks to Manhart’s suspension upgrade, and those wheels are Concave One aluminium jobs. The brakes remain standard, though. Luckily Audi already fits ceramic discs.

Just 10 RQ 900s will be built, with each one costing (wait for it) €280,000. Ouch.

STORY Greg Potts