Audi's Prologue concept was undoubtedly one of the most talked about concepts of last year, but we're afraid we're going to hear a lot more of it. That's because it has been completely redesigned as a preview, not for a large S-Class rivaling coupe, but for a CLS Shooting Brake rivaling Avant.
Described as a "new interpretation of the Avant philosophy," the Prologue Avant features a new grille that gives it a muscular look, as well as upgraded side air vents that we hope will make it onto production RS models in the future. At the back, the concept has gained tailgate-mounted spoiler, three dimensional taillights and 22-inch alloys in a 5-spoke design.
The powertrain has completely changed as well. From a system based on the RS7 performance model, the new Prologue features a setup based on the new Q7 e-tron. Underhood is a 3.0-liter TDI engine coupled to a powerful electric motor and a 14.1 kWh lithium battery. Total output is rated at 455 PS and 750 Nm (553 lb-ft) of torque, which is enough for a 0 to 100 km/h time of 5.1 seconds and a limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).
Fuel consumption is nearly identical to that of the Passat GTE at 1.6L/100km (147 mpg US) and the electric-only autonomy can be considered average at 54 km (33.6 mi).
Does it preview anything?
“With our show car for Geneva, we now translate the design language of the Audi prologue into a new, dynamic and stretched form. We are merging it with a concept of high variability”, said Audi Board Member Ulrich Hackenberg.
In Geneva, on its home continent, Audi may receive an overwhelmingly positive response to the Prologue Avant. It's not only something the four-ring brand doesn't have, but also something its rivals have missed, as the S-Class is moving towards the impractical but stylish section of the market with the coupe and cabrio.
The size of this concept places it way out of the league of the A8. From bumper to bumper, it's 5,110mm (201.2 in) long, but also 1,970mm (77.6 in) wide and 1,400mm (55.1 in) tall.
There are also a number of innovations that future customers might want. For example, all-wheel steering is used, while the interior does without the traditional MMI controller, replacing it with two screens, one behind the gear selector and the other integrated with the "flow" of the futuristic dashboard.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
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