Audi teases A5 Convertible and Sportback, A7, A8 with series of sketches
Monday, October 27th, 2008 in Advanced Auto NEWS, Audi
Audi’s model lineup is set to get a major freshening over the next few years, but in the mean time, the German automaker wants to make sure it has our attention. Audi released a series of teaser sketches on Monday, which previews several new models set to hit the market over the next three years.
The first model due up for launch is the company’s A5 Convertible. We’ve already seen spy shots of the upcoming drop top, but the A5 Convertible sketch gives us a pretty good idea of what to expect from the production model – save for the cartoonishly-large wheels and tires.
Audi’s A5 line will also grow to include a Sportback variant, which will take on more coupe-like lines than a traditional hatchback model. As with the A5 Convertible, the A5 Sportback is expected to be offered with a performance ‘S’ trim, with an even higher-performance RS model still likely.
Audi’s sketches also preview the upcoming A7 four-door coupe. Intended to take on the Mercedes-Benz CLS and a future BMW model, the A7 will feature a low-slung roofline and short overhangs. The A7 is expected to be offered as a 2010 model, with power ranging from a 204 horsepower 2.8L to the top-of-the-line 394 hp 4.2L V8. Later in the A7’s lifecycle, Audi is expected to add an RS variant, which will likely use a 600 hp twin-turbo 5.2L V10.
The final model previewed by Audi’s sketches in the company’s next-generation A8 flagship sedan. Set to hit the market in late 2010 or early 2011, the single sketch of the A8 reveals that Audi will ditch the current sedan’s conservative styling in favor of much sportier designs. The A8 actually looks slightly more aggressive than the A7, with coupe-like styling in the mix. Power for the A8 will be sourced from a number of gas and diesel V6s and V8s, with the range-topping S8 slated to receive a 620 hp 5.0L V10.
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