With the aim of selling 1.5 million cars by 2018, Audi plans to expand its already wide lineup by unveiling 15 new models or versions within three years.
The most important model for the carmaker will be the small A1 expected to take on the established Mini in the small car segment. Sharing its inner-structure with the VW Polo, the A1 is rumoured to offer an all-wheel drive version.
On the compact market segment where Audi dominates the German clique, the carmaker will continue to multiply variants with the launch of the Q3 SUV in 2010. Expected to be 4,300 mm long, it will be 300 mm shorter than the new Q5 and will only be available as an all-wheel drive model. Power output will range from 168 to 349bhp. The three-door A3 will be renewed one year later, while the Sportback variant will be launched in 2012.
The next-generation A6 will be launched in 2011. It will be the first high-volume Audi model to come with an aluminum structure. However, the masterpiece in this segment will be the future A7 set to compete with the top-selling CLS-Class. This four-door coupé will be followed by the new A8.
With the R4 cancelled, the R8 supercar will be the only sporty model in the range. Audi will expand the R8’s range by launching the V10-powered version and the first diesel supercar. There will also be a roadster version which will be launched this year.
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