Audi is on a roll as of late – they stopped production of the R8 after expanding it a little while longer due to popular demand, and they also have a fresh model strategy in place for the rest of the lineup.
In fact, they are working on more than one plain of existence. For example, they are preparing for a big roll-out of new models – they already started with the Q6 e-tron and SQ6 e-tron. They are also changing the nameplates – even numbers are reserved for all-electric e-trons, and odd numbers will be used for the ICE-powered variants. So, the classic A4 will become the A5, the bigger A6 will turn into A7, and so on.
Plus, the confusing engine numerals will be gone – good riddance, we say. On the other hand, Audi still has some catching up to do when compared to the quirky-designed BMWs and the traditional-borderline-boring Mercedes, especially at the top of the crossover SUV list. So, after they dropped a second facelift for the Audi Q7 and are diligently preparing its next generation, there's also an overabundance of spied prototypes depicting an all-new flagship – the rumored Audi Q9.
Set to brawl with the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS, this Audi will adopt the former's controversial idea that split headlights are a popular thing among consumers. We beg to differ because we're still mature enough to remember the Fiat Multipla or Pontiac Aztek. However, automakers don't care about that, and the Audi Q9 is set to follow the trend.
The interior, meanwhile, should be roomy enough for the entire family across three rows and with more interior plus exterior space than the Audi Q7 currently has to offer. Of course, the underpinnings should be very familiar – MLB Evo is still rocking – and powertrain options will probably include a feisty SQ9 variant from the get-go. But how about the design?
Well, for that, we must consult with the imaginative realm of digital car content creators if anyone isn't patient enough to wait for the official unveiling. Just recently, the good folks over at the AutoYa info channel on YouTube have imagined the CGI looks of the often-spied Audi Q9 three-row full-size crossover SUV flagship with their usual set of POVs – from the front with lots of ritzy color options and from inside with many screens and another shade reel.
By the way, if you think the Audi Q9 is too large for your needs or can't stand the split-headlight design (beauty is always in the eye of the beholder but we're on the same page on this account) their satellite venue dubbed AutoYa Interior has a few CGI thoughts about a potential second LCI (life cycle impulse or facelift) performed by BMW on the best-selling X5 mid-size crossover SUV. So, which one is cooler?
Aurel has aimed high all his life (literally, at 16 he was flying gliders all by himself) so in 2006 he switched careers and got hired as a writer at his favorite magazine. Since then, his work has been published both by print and online outlets, most recently right here, on autoevolution. Full profile
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