Audi is reportedly planning to remove the numbers linked to the output of a particular engine from its naming scheme to streamline the process. This move coincides with the brand’s intention to gradually transition to more electric cars by reducing the number of powertrains in its lineup. Introducing a two-digit number between the engine type and the core nameplate, the outgoing system was implemented in 2017. The 40 TFSI, 45 TFSI, and 55 TFSI e are the three models available to purchasers looking to purchase a 2024 Q5.
The first one is for a variation with 201 horsepower, the second one is for an engine with 261 horsepower, and the third one is for a hybrid with 362 horsepower. This technology isn’t available on every Audi model; for instance, the A3 is only available with one engine, while the S3 is positioned as the higher-end variant. The decision by Audi of America not to place these numbers on its vehicles means that the move won’t have a significant impact on the United States. However, since Audi introduced the naming scheme, the majority of vehicles sold in Europe have had a back-end symbol unique to the powerplant.
In an interview with Auto Express, Florian Hauser, Audi’s Head of Sales & Product Marketing for Battery Electric Vehicles, stated that the company’s future strategy will prioritize consumer convenience.
“When we talk about simplicity we don’t just talk about the options and the configuration process (in contrast to older Audi models, the Q6 has just a handful of option packs to choose from), we are really thinking of getting the leanest engine program for the Q6 which still refers to our customer demands.”
Audi Streamlines Naming Scheme for Enhanced Clarity and Consistency
Audi will be able to simplify its range naming scheme by offering a choice of one or two power outputs and a reduced number of powertrains. The Q6 normal four-wheel drive variant will now be referred to as “quattro.” Hauser continued by saying that for forward, all-wheel-drive versions would sport the iconic Quattro logo, while two-wheel-drive models wouldn’t have a label related to their drivetrain. For instance, the Q6 will have two-wheel drive, while the Q6 Quattro will have all-wheel drive. Hauser emphasized, “And if it’s a performance model with Quattro, then it’s SQ6.” He pointed out that a suffix, such as Performance, may distinguish between the various battery sizes.
Though it’s still up for debate inside the company as to whether it will also go from the configuration pages, future EVs will officially do away with the numbering scheme. The system will also be deleted from the bootlids of its internal combustion vehicles. Audi’s numbering scheme was intended to divide powertrains based on their respective power outputs, but many people found the system perplexing due to the erratic groups and the seemingly random selection of the numbers themselves. For instance, the 45 powerplant ranged from 226 to 248 horsepower, while the 30 powertrain represented vehicles with 109 to 128 horsepower.
Although Hauser made no mention of it, it’s logical to presume that high-performance models will continue to be identified by the “RS” prefix in the near future. Furthermore, there is currently no information on when the Audi range’s powertrain-based numerals will go.
