Audi has confirmed what motoring industry watchers have been saying for some time, that expansion of its Q series crossover range would likely continue with an entry-level model.
It will be called the Q1 and share its platform with the new Volkswagen Polo, the smallest version of the VW Group’s MQB architecture. The Polo is due in 2015, the Q1 a year or so later.
The current Audi Q range is made up of the Q3, RS Q3, Q5, SQ5 and Q7. “The Audi Q1 is part of our broad-based SUV strategy,” said Audi chairman Rupert Stadler, announcing boardroom approval for the model.
“It is designed on the basis of the modular transverse engine concept and will round off our Q series at the bottom end.
“As an attractive entry into the Q family, the new model will make a strong contribution to the company’s ongoing growth and will strengthen its international competitiveness.”
The Q1 is a cog in Audi’s new wheel of fortune as it works to expand by 2020 its product range from the current 49 models to more than 60.
Its global sales by then are expected to top two million vehicles. Last year Audi sold almost 1.5 million units worldwide, of which Audi New Zealand’s contribution was 1540.
The Q1 is expected to be available in two- and four-wheel-drive quattro guises with a range of petrol and diesel engines, all with stop/start. A plug-in hybrid is also likely.
The petrol and diesel units will come with either a six-speed manual or Audi’s upcoming 10-speed double-clutch (DSG) gearbox.
Audi released a teaser image (above) of how the Q1 might look. It shows a coupe-inspired roofline as well as chiseled flanks and body cladding for a more aggressive look.