Audi – The Next 5 Years

With more than 20 new models arriving within the next five years, Audi is shaking up its model line-up by culling some slow-selling derivatives and adding surprising new products

Much of Audi’s traditional core line-up (A3, A4, A6, A8) will be replaced by all-new models within the next two years. But given current market trends, the bigger news is most likely its further expansion into the crossover segments. Just like German compatriots Mercedes-Benz and BMW, Audi wants to have crossover-themed products of every shape and size.

Beyond the new models, there are also other high-interest developments. Audi is of course affected by the current Volkswagen diesel cheat scandal, but whether it will have some of its future projects delayed or postponed as a result, remains to be seen. If anything, extremely niche products such as the mooted TT crossover and large premium Q9 SUV would likely get the bullet first.

On the powertrain side, Audi is expanding its plug-in hybrid (e-tron) product offering, but none of these are yet confirmed for South Africa. High-end RS models are likely to continue using the marque’s V8 engines, but high-performance diesels are not ruled out either. However, since the VW diesel scandal and likely American resistance to this fuel, such models could now be placed on the back burner.

A smaller engine is also rumoured for the R8 – currently offered only with a V10. The hot tip at the moment is for a twin-turbo V6 delivering around 335 kW to make its appearance.

With regards to design, new style chief Marc Lichte points to the recent Prologue concepts as previews…

HIGHLIGHTS

• Audi RS3 SPORTBACK – new uber-hatch arrives very shortly in South Africa (2016)
• Audi A4 – Fifth-generation compact executive debuts early in 2016 (SA)
• Audi R8 COUPE – South Africa launch second-quarter 2016
• Audi R8 SPYDER – World launch March 2016, SA Q2 2017
• Audi Q2 – World launch March 2016, SA in 2017
• Audi TT RS – World launch March 2016, SA in 2017
• Audi A5/S5 – World launch first-half 2016, SA in 2017
• Audi Q5 – World launch first-half 2016, SA in 2017
• Audi S4 – Fiery new sports sedan could come to SA later in 2016
• Audi A3 facelift – SA launch likely towards the end of 2016
• Audi A8/S8 – all-new model arrives in 2017
• Audi A3/S3 – all-new model arrives in 2018
• Audi A6/S6 – all-new model comes in 2018
• Audi A7/S7 – all-new model comes in 2018
• Audi Q6 e-tron – Tesla Model X fighter debuts in 2018
• Audi A1 – Second-generation A1 makes world debut in 2018
• Audi Q3 – Next Q3 grows in size and arrives in 2018
• Audi Sport Quattro – Finally, a possible replacement to the iconic Quattro in 2018
• Audi Q8 – BMW X6 rival launches in 2019
• Audi A9 – Mercedes-Benz S-Class coupe rival debuts in 2019/2020
• Audi Q1 – Polo-based junior Q offering could arrive in 2019
• Audi Q9 – Ultra-luxurious seven-seat SUV could come in 2019
• Audi Q4/TTQ – Rumoured BMW X4 rival possible in 2020
• Audi City Car – Rumoured for 2020, in partnership with Ducati

AUDI RS3 SPORTBACK – SA launch imminent (2016)

Audi’s foil to the Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG 4Matic arrives shortly in the form of the RS3 Sportback. Powered by a turbocharged 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine that packs 270kW and 465Nm of torque, it will undoubtedly be a serious rival. Audi claims a 0-100 km/h time of 4,3 seconds, and you can have the car derestricted as an option, taking the top speed to 280 km/h! Power goes to all four wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and Audi’s Quattro all-wheel drive system.

The RS3 Sportback is priced from R710 000 in South Africa and deliveries start in November. Some more detail on the newcomer here.

AUDI A4 – SA launch first-quarter 2016

The next-generation A4 arrives in South Africa during the first quarter of 2016, mostly likely late January or early February. Wider and longer than before, the new A4 is also considerably lighter than its predecessor – up to 120kg lighter, in fact. Though the styling appears evolutionary on photos, in reality it is quite a striking machine, mostly due to the different proportions and the crisp detailing of the grille and head- and taillamps.

Inside, it gets the TT’s Virtual Cockpit digital instrumentation if you specify the MMI Navigation Plus system. Even rear-seat passengers can swap the real world for a digital alternative via available tablet computers that swivel from the front seatbacks. Audi also claims up to 24 mm more rear legroom and a significantly quieter cabin environment.

In Europe the A4 will initially be offered with a choice of three petrol and four turbodiesel motors. The local line-up is not yet confirmed. In Europe the range kicks off with a 110kW 1,4-litre turbopetrol, followed by two 2,0-litre turbopetrols with 140kW and 185kW respectively. On the turbodiesel side Europeans can choose from 2,0-litre (110kW or 140kW) or 3,0-litre units (160kW or 200kW). Six-speed manual or seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmissions do duty in most models, with an eight-speed automatic reserved for the top-end diesel derivative.

The Avant and Allroad models are not yet confirmed for South Africa.

See a video and read more about the A4 here.

AUDI R8 COUPE – SA launch second-quarter 2016

We have to wait until the second quarter of 2016 to welcome Audi’s new R8 supercar, but looking at first European reports, the wait should be worth it.

Again sharing its underpinnings with Lamborghini (the Huracan), there are a number of key differences to ensure that the Audi is the more easygoing of the two. The R8 has a longer wheelbase, less aggressive seating position and a more forgiving ride/handling set-up. That’s not to say it will be tame… Powered by a 5,2-litre V10, the all-wheel drive R8 is a sizzling performer. We will get both versions, the standard (397kW/540Nm) and the so-called Plus (449kW/560Nm). The latter boasts a 0-100km/h time of 3,2 seconds and a 330km/h top speed.

Design-wise the new R8 looks like a subtle evolution of its still-fresh predecessor, but inside the changes are more pronounced, with a lot more carbon-fibre and the Virtual Cockpit technology first shown on the TT.

View a video and read more about the R8 here.

AUDI R8 SPYDER – World launch first-quarter 2016

The drop-top version of the R8 supercar arrives in South Africa during the second quarter of 2017 following its international debut, which will most likely take place at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2016. The R8 Spyder will use the same V10 engine as the coupe, in two states of tune, and is reportedly about 50kg lighter than before. It uses a folding fabric top, as our spy images show.

AUDI Q2 – World launch first-quarter 2016

Audi’s new compact crossover, initially thought to be called the Q1, may now apparently become the Q2, and will debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March next year. Previously thought to be based on the same underpinnings as the A1/Polo, it is now suggested that the Q2 will be based on a more compact version of the MQB platform which underpins the current Golf 7.

The Q2 targets the Mini Countryman and Nissan Juke as a sporty, youthful city slicker with attitude. Most of its engines will be carried over from the A1 but there will also be a hot little SQ1, powered by a 170kW 2,0-litre twin-turbodiesel. We should see the Q2 in South Africa during the first half of 2017.

AUDI TT RS – World launch first-quarter 2016

The new uber TT arrives at the Geneva Motorshow in March 2016 and is said to be significantly more hardcore than its predecessor as it targets offering Porsche 911 thrills for a lot less money. Even so, there hasn’t been confirmation yet on what’s underneath the bonnet. Logic dictates the 2,5-litre five-cylinder that also does duty in RS3. However, Audi is apparently targeting 400 horsepower (just short of 300kW), so the RS3’s engine, in its current state of tune, may not be good enough. Consequently, there is also a rumour that it could instead get the very hot 2,0-litre four-cylinder turbo that is destined for the Golf R400. Either way, talk is of a much more driver-focused all-wheel drive TT with a 0-100 km/h time of below four seconds.

The TT RS is scheduled for South African release in 2017.

AUDI A5/S5 – World launch 2016

Although Audi initially did consider a radical approach with the replacement for the still-sexy A5/S5, it has settled for an evolutionary design instead. That’s why we decided to show you the more radically different interior instead… Still, it could hardly be ugly. The new A5/S6 should also make its debut on the world stage in the early part of 2016 before going on sale in South Africa, possibility early in 2017. Initially, it is likely to debut in Coupe and Convertible form, with the Sportback following slightly later.

It is based on a new version of the MLB platform, called MLB Evo, which also underpins the new A4, and will share most its engines with its sedan sibling. The RS5, due as much as a year later, will likely drop the current 4,2-litre V8 for the marque’s twin-turbocharged 4,0-litre V8.

Like the new A4, the second-generation A5 will be a lot lighter than before, benefitting efficiency and performance. Inside, expect to see the Virtual Cockpit technology as well as the latest connectivity systems and even partial autonomous driving technology. As our spy photo shows, the facia design is rather different to what is currently the case.

AUDI Q5 – World launch 2016

The second-generation version of the long-serving but very popular Q5 is nearing production. This is a very important model for Audi, as it competes in a fiercely contested segment against the likes of the Range Rover Evoque, BMW X3 and new Mercedes-Benz GLC.

First things first… the new Q5 will not be built in Germany, but rather in Audi’s new factory in Mexico. It rides on the MLB Evo platform that also underpins the new A4 and next A5. Front and all-wheel drive versions will again be offered, and the new Q5 is likely to be significantly lighter than its predecessor as a result.

As our spy photos show, the new model doesn’t look too massively different from its predecessor, with Audi relying once more on the detailing of the edgier grille and lights to set it apart. Inside, the Q5 follows in the footsteps of other new or upcoming Audis in that it will use the TT’s Virtual Cockpit and adapt a smart info-tainment system developed in conjunction with Google.

The engine line-up is likely to remain largely similar to what is on offer at the moment (2,0-litre turbopetrol, 2,0-litre turbodiesel and 3,0-litre turbodiesel), but there could be a flagship model with a third turbocharger. It is reported, however, that this third turbocharger will be an electric one, to boost torque from zero rpm.

A hot SQ5 will again be offered (with around 255kW), but a RS Q5 will also likely be added to the line-up at a later stage and could pack as much as 335kW!

The new Q5 will debut in South Africa during 2017.

AUDI S4 – SA launch late 2016 (unconfirmed)

The A4 model range should expand later in 2016 with the addition of the S4 sports sedan which targets the BMW 340i. The fiery S4 model is powered by a turbocharged 3,0-litre V6 engine, and consequently the S4 has 260kW and 500Nm of torque at its disposal. It covers the 100km/h sprint in 4,7 seconds.

See a video and read more about the S4 here. The S4 has however not yet been confirmed for South African introduction.

AUDI A3 FACELIFT – SA launch late 2016

A mid-life refresh is looming for the A3, but don’t get too excited just yet – it will only likely reach South Africa towards the end of 2016. We do not anticipate any major exterior design changes, with the edgier new grille and some of the advanced lighting technology from the more expensive models likely to filter down to Audi’s meat-and-potatoes offering. These changes will also be carried over to the A3/S3 Sportback and Sedan models.

The more exciting changes happen inside, where the A3 will get its own version of the TT’s Virtual Cockpit digital instrumentation, albeit only as an option. Expect some of the connectivity systems that Audi has debuted on the A4 to also become available on the A3.

There could be some changes on the powertrain front, with the three-cylinder turbopetrol from the A1 a potential candidate for inclusion.

AUDI A8/S8 – World launch 2017

New Audi design chief, Marc Lichte, has hinted strongly at a bigger design “step” from the next A8 luxury sedan. He has also pointed to the sexy Prologue Coupe concept for clues. Beyond striking design, Audi will throw every bit of technology at the A8 to make sure it matches or bests the likes of the new BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class, itself due for a facelift in 2017.

So, expect autonomous driving technology to feature strongly in the A8 as well as a near button-free cabin with gesture control technology. A weight saving of around 200kg compared with the current model is rumoured at present, as well as an engine line-up that will feature electric turbocharging to ensure great torque from zero rpm. Plug-in hybrid models will also be offered.

The new A8 will only reach South Africa in 2018.

AUDI A3/S3 – World launch 2018

The fourth-generation Audi A3 most likely arrives in 2018. This time round, expect a major shake-up as Audi’s redefines the A3 portfolio to better compete in key new segments. Firstly, apparently the three-door model is destined to be culled due to slow sales. Focus will therefore fall on expanding the Sportback line-up. A very likely addition is a Sportback Allroad derivative, with a slightly higher ground clearance and body cladding for that rugged crossover look – see the Allroad Concept above for clues. Beyond that, the rumours become quite… wild. To replace the A3 three-door, Audi may add a four-door coupe version of the TT instead, tentatively dubbed the TTC. And to battle the new Golf SV, BMW 2 Series Active Tourer and Mercedes-Benz B-Class, Audi may also introduce a compact minivan in the A3 line-up.

Whatever happens to the product line-up, expect a greater focus on in-car technology, such as gesture control, digital displays (potentially including organic LED) and some partial-autonomous driving systems.

AUDI A6/S6 – World launch 2018

The large sedan is still popular in some markets, so the A6 remains an important car for Audi. The next model boasts styling inspired by the recent Prologue Avant concept (shown above) and rides on the MLB Evo platform. It is likely to offer a longer wheelbase, but shorter overhangs and could be as much as 100kg lighter than the current model.

As is the case with all new-generation Audi models, a big focus area has been in-car connectivity, info-tainment and ergonomics. The facia will be dramatically decluttered, with gesture control incorporated into the design. All the displays will be digital and, of course, the A6 will benefit from some of Audi’s latest advanced tech, including autonomous driving up to a speculated 120 km/h under certain conditions.

The engine line-up will largely continue as is, but more eco-friendly models will be added, so there will be more plug-in hybrids and the S6 could make use of electric turbocharging for sizzling performance from rest.

Looking at Audi’s model timelines, the A6 should arrive in South Africa late in 2018  or early in 2019.

AUDI A7/S7 – World launch 2018

Audi says the next A7/S7/RS7 will be even more emotionally styled, but also more practical. It is likely to be based on the platform of the A6L (the stretched, long-wheelbase A6 developed for China). This should address the rear legroom concerns.

Otherwise, the technological upgrade will mirror what happens with the A6/S6 so expect autonomous driving technologies and a very minimalistic facia with gesture control systems – see the facia of the Prologue concept above for clues. With regards to powertrains, electric turbocharging will be the big talking point.

AUDI Q6 E-TRON – World launch 2018

Targeting the recently launched Tesla Model X, Audi’s all-electric Q6 e-tron will come to market in 2018. It was designed from scratch as an electric vehicle, and features active aerodynamic parts to lower wind resistance at speed. Size-wise it will slot in between the Q6 and Q7 and there is talk of a 500 km range on a single charge.

AUDI A1 – World launch 2018

Again sharing its basic underpinnings with the next-generation VW Polo, the A1 replacement will grow very slightly in size and again be offered in three- and five-door bodystyles. Audi promises quite a dramatic design, less weight and a more spacious cabin. The engines will largely be borrowed from the next-generation A3 and there will again be a hot S1 all-wheel drive model. Insiders say, however, that the all-wheel drive system won’t only be reserved for the S1 only this time.

AUDI Q3 – World launch in 2018

The second-generation Q3 arrives in 2018 and will grow in size to create distance between it and the upcoming Q2. It clearly targets the BMW X1 and will offer a very wide line-up of engines, including plug-in hybrids. Given market trends, the Q3 will become one of the most important models in the Audi line-up.

AUDI SPORT QUATTRO – World launch likely in 2018

After many false starts, it seems as if Audi will finally build a successor to the legendary Quattro. Latest rumours suggest a coupe and roadster based on the underpinnings of the next-generation A6. This means that the new Sport Quattro will likely be a spacious full four seater. Pitched as a very performance and driver focused model, it will essentially target the next-generation BMW 6 Series, a vehicle that will also become lighter and more driver focused next time round.

AUDI Q8 – World launch 2019

Audi wants a slice of the BMW X6/Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe pie and its rival will most likely be called the Q8, penned in for launch during 2019. Based on the underpinnings of the new Q7, the Q8 will adopt a similar coupe-like profile to the BMW and Mercedes, but Audi design boss Marc Lichte has promised that it won’t be a copycat design. Plug-in hybrid as well as fast S and RS versions are very likely to join the line-up.

Audi A9 – World launch possible in 2019/2020

Rumoured to be under development is a luxury coupe spin-off of the A8, to be called the A9. Previewed by the first Prologue concept, this A9 will rival the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe. A convertible version has not been ruled out either. Mechanically the A9 will obviously borrow heavily from the A8, which means autonomous driving technology will be a strong focus area, as well as next-generation Matrix lighting, OLED interior screens and gesture control.

Audi Q1 – World launch possible in 2019

Now that it appears likely that next year’s new compact crossover will be called the Q2 and not the Q1 suggests that Audi wants to leave space for an even smaller model. According to reports such a model is currently planned for a 2019 launch and will be based on the next-generation Polo. Audi is targeting a vehicle that measures in at less four metres in length and very youthful looks – it could even be a two-seater only! See the Crosslane Concept pictured above for the possible design.

AUDI Q9 – World launch 2019 (possible)

Mercedes-Benz currently has a next-generation GL (soon to be called GLS) under development and BMW has already committed itself to the X7 luxury SUV. Meanwhile Range Rover continues to do brisk business and Bentley and Rolls-Royce are both joining the ultra-luxurious SUV party. Audi will not be left out of this, either.

The rumoured Q9 seven-seater will be based on a stretched version of the latest MLB platform and could arrive by 2019.

AUDI Q4/TTQ – World launch 2020 (possible)

With the expansion in the compact “coupe” crossover segment following the addition of the BMW X4 and the announcement of the upcoming Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe to battle the Range Rover Evoque, Audi is strongly considering a similar offering. At this stage it could be called either the Q4, or the TTQ. Given the marque’s many other high priority vehicles in the coming years, and the effects of the Volkswagen scandal, very niche models such as this could be cancelled or pushed out.

AUDI CITY CAR – World launch 2020 (possible)

This rumoured model has not yet been signed off, but is a possible rival to the BMW i3 and some Mini models. It could be developed in conjunction with Ducati (which is a VW Group company), so the petrol-powered versions could use an engine developed by that Italian motorcycle company.