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Audi Readies Hybrid Performance SUVs
Audi AG is developing RS performance variants of several of the company’s SUV/crossover vehicles, some of which will feature hybrid powertrains.
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Audi AG is developing RS performance variants of several of the company’s SUV/crossover vehicles, some of which will feature hybrid powertrains.
The rollout will start with the top-end RS Q8 model later this year, Oliver Hoffmann, who heads Audi’s Sport performance car unit, tells Autocar. The British enthusiast magazine says an RS variant of the compact Q3 will be unveiled in September at the Frankfurt auto show. Q5 and Q7 performance models could follow later.
Hoffmann notes that the SUV/crossover segment offers the most opportunity for Audi to expand its sales. He says there is increasing demand for high-performance SUVs, and electrification will play a role in such models. The size and weight of SUV/crossovers make it easier to accommodate hybrid systems, Hoffmann points out.
He and Julius Seebach were appointed co-managing directors of Audi Sport in April. A longtime Audi engineer, Hoffmann has headed Audi Sport’s technical development for the last two years.
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