Audi may be preparing to enter unfamiliar territory with a rugged, body-on-frame luxury SUV, as the German automaker looks to expand its portfolio and reinforce its identity during a period of sweeping change.
The company is already navigating a pivotal stretch. Audi is set to join Formula One in 2026, a high-profile move that underscores its motorsports ambitions. At the same time, it has confirmed plans to revive distinctive nameplates such as the A2 and move forward with a production sports car inspired by the recent Audi Concept C. Performance offerings are also expanding, with the new Audi RS 5 sedan and Avant positioned against established rivals like the BMW M3 and Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance. The next-generation RS 6 models are expected to follow, reportedly adopting a plug-in hybrid setup comparable in output to the BMW M5 and M5 Touring.
Amid these developments, attention has turned to Audi’s potential return to more adventure-focused vehicles rooted in its quattro heritage. In a recent interview with Australian publication Chasing Cars, Audi CEO Gernot Döllner indicated the brand is considering a rugged, body-on-frame four-wheel-drive model as part of a broader transformation strategy.
Such a vehicle would place Audi in direct competition with established off-road luxury models including the Mercedes-AMG G 63 and Land Rover Defender, as well as newer entrants like the Lexus GX and LX. While no official name has been confirmed, speculation has pointed to the possibility of an “Audi Q Extreme” badge.
Digital renderings by virtual artist Theottle imagine the SUV adopting Audi’s forthcoming Radical Simplicity design language, set to debut in 2027 with the production version of the Concept C sports car.
Development could be accelerated through shared resources within the Volkswagen Group. Audi may utilize a modern ladder-frame platform being developed in North America by Scout Motors. The architecture is designed primarily for electric vehicles but is expected to support extended-range EV configurations, potentially giving Audi a technological edge in the emerging premium off-road segment.
If realized, the model would mark a significant shift for the brand, blending traditional off-road hardware with Audi’s performance and luxury credentials.
Via Chasing Cars
