Audi has taken a u-turn on its new model naming strategy that was introduced in 2023 that differentiated its combustion engine line-up from the electric ones. This decision has been a result of customer feedback that the new system was causing confusion among buyers.
- ICE powered models get even numbering again
- Numerical sequence the vehicle’s size and hierarchy
- New Audi A6 sedan debut on March 4
Audi’s new (old) naming system returns
Under the original plan, ICE powered cars and SUVs along with plug-in hybrids were assigned numbers 1,3,5 and 7 while the pure EVs were designated as 2,4,6 and 8. bWhen this nomenclature was announced, at the time, Audi’s then head of technology, Oliver Hoffmann, justified the approach as a way to create a “clear and intuitive distinction” between drivetrain types.
This decision led to major shifts in Audi’s model naming system, starting with the Audi A4 sedan which was rebranded as the A5 for the new gen model. The A6 sedan was set to be renamed to A7 upon debut.
With the reversal in the naming pattern, the new Audi A7 sedan which is slated for a global debut on March 4, will now be called A6. The electric version that was revealed earlier, will continue to be called A6 e-Tron.
However, Audi has confirmed to our sister publication Autocar UK that it has no plans to change the names of the new A4 and A5 which are already on sale in some markets., despite the pair being effectively the same car just powered by different powertrains. This is because, under the revised system, the numerical sequence from 1 to 8 indicates the vehicle’s size and hierarchy within the Audi range, irrespective of powertrain type, and the A5 is a physically bigger car than the A4.
By the same rationale, Audi said that existing models, such as the electric Q4 and Q6, will retain their current names. Audi models will continue to be identified by letters and numbers, with ‘A’ designating traditional cars and ‘Q’ signifying SUVs.
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