Audi overhauls naming system to simplify model identification

INGOLSTADT: Audi has finally realised that some things that worked well before need not be changed. If that change leads to more consumer confusion, well, that requires another change. Call this one a naming experiment that didn't pan out.

This was evident when Audi announced on Monday a comprehensive revision of its model nomenclature designed to provide customers around the world with a clear, unified, and intuitive system for recognising vehicle size and positioning.

The new alphanumeric format, which will be applied to all future models, replaces the current method of distinguishing electric vehicles from combustion-engine models by even and odd numbering.

Instead, the letters and numbers will now denote the vehicle’s class and stature in a transparent manner, independent of powertrain type, Audi said in a statement.

According to Audi sales and marketing board member Marco Schubert, the decision followed extensive discussions, incorporating feedback from both customers and international dealers.

The new (or rather old) approach will continue to use the letters A and Q to indicate the vehicle type – with A designating cars and Q marking crossovers – while the accompanying numbers, ranging from one to eight, will reflect the model’s size and market positioning.

Differentiation between electric and combustion-engine variants will be managed through established powertrain codes, such as e-tron, TFSI, TFSIe (plug-in hybrid), or TDI, as well as by body style labels like Avant, Sedan or Sportback.

The revised scheme is set to be globally standardised, thereby ensuring that all customers can immediately grasp a vehicle’s segment at first glance.

The first model to adopt this new naming convention will be the combustion-engine A6, which will be globally unveiled on March 4.

While the A6 will carry its legacy designation in the full-size segment, a similarly designated electric variant – the A6 Avant e-tron – will also be available, ensuring a clear distinction between powertrains without messing up the naming consistency.

Audi has confirmed that existing models on sale will retain their current names, with the updated scheme reserved for upcoming releases.

motor1.com notes that earlier in March 2023, Audi had proposed a naming scheme that relied on even numbers for electric vehicles and odd numbers for those with combustion engines.

However, this approach proved confusing and is now being abandoned in favour of falling back on the old system that focuses on vehicle size and positioning. The online publication further reports that initial plans to rebrand the next-generation A6 as the A7 have been reversed.

In addition, motor1.com pointed out that smaller models like the A1 and Q2 will eventually be phased out as they reach the end of their product life cycles.