The Mercedes-Benz G-Class has enjoyed decades of success as an ultra-luxury off-roader, arguably without any direct rival – but that could soon be about to change.
Audi CEO Gernot Döllner has hinted at a G-Wagen competitor being in development, telling the UK’s Autocar “Stay tuned” when asked about the four-wheel drive project.
The Audi boss also suggested the company was working on a rival to the Land Rover Defender, though this may be the same model designed to fight the iconic Mercedes-Benz.
Previous reports suggested Audi could lean on its standing in the Volkswagen Group by using a platform created for Scout – the German auto giant’s forthcoming electric off-road vehicle brand.
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Mr Döllner said the company was currently considering whether it should have its own factory in the US, based on the current political turmoil regarding import tariffs.
While there are no details of the new Audi ‘Q-Wagon’ off-roader at this stage, using Scout architecture would lock the model into using an electric powertrain – just months after Mercedes-Benz admitted its electric G-Class was a “complete flop”.
Despite having 10 vehicle brands under its umbrella, the Volkswagen Group arguably only has one off-road model on sale with 4×4 and a dual-range drivetrain: the Amarok ute, which is based on the Ford Ranger.
These digital illustrations by artist Theottle provide an idea of what Audi’s first off-road SUV could look like, based on the company’s current design direction.
While Mr Döllner has previously expressed his desire to simplify Audi’s lineup, he reiterated the importance of flagship models featuring new technology and innovations.
“There is no niche banner. It’s just the opposite,” he explained to Autocar.
“It works perfectly to have a more focused lineup in the core and, in addition to that, have some niche models to build the brand and to also transfer new ideas from a niche segment into the core products. That works perfectly, and this is part of our strategy.”
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