With the next auto show scheduled to take place after the calendar turns to 2014, a number of automakers are already gearing up for it before the holiday break arrives.
One of these companies is Audi and to no one's surprise, the German->ke2091 company has gotten the ball rolling with a preview of a crossover concept that it plans to unveil at the Detroit Auto Show->ke222 in January.
Billed as the "new Audi show car," the yet-to-be-named crossover->ke288 coupe concept->ke169 is being touted as a preview of what we can expect from Audi moving forward, specifically as it pertains to certain visual elements in the concept that will be translated to its future lineup of sports cars->ke506.
That's a lot take in, especially considering the "coupe->ke141-like nature" of this particular concept, particularly the certain designs that are undeniably sporty in nature. There's a tornado line on the sides that emphasize a distinctively aggressive character. There are short overhangs and a low roof, thicker-than-usual C-pillars, aluminum underbody guards, and of course, a new set of 19-inch alloy wheels that mesh well with the somewhat-staunch and muscular look of this concept.
The interior, it appears, has a 2+2 seating configuration, although what appears to be lack of backrests on the front seats leaves us a little confused as to what Audi's going for with this. There's a flat-bottom steering wheel, which is a nice touch, and the full-length center console definitely adds personality to the concept.
We expect to hear more about this new crossover coupe concept when the Detroit Auto Show->ke222 comes around. Until then, these teaser photos will give you a clear indication of what to expect before the concept makes its world debut.
Updated 01/10/2014: With just a few days before its official debut at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show, the first images of Audi's new compact crossover leaked onto the internet. Along with these images, we also got the official name of the vehicle: Allroad Shooting Brake Concept. Full details will follow next week. (Autowp)
Click past the jump to read about the 2015 Audi Q1
2014 Audi Allroad Shooting Brake Concept
- Make: Array
- Model: 2014 Audi Allroad Shooting Brake Concept
- Engine/Motor: hybrid electric
- Horsepower: 200
- Torque: 180
- [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Is it at all possible that this Audi concept will be a precursor to the arrival of the new Q1 compact crossover?
Well, given the dimensions that both vehicles carry, you wouldn't be remiss for thinking that.
There are signs that point to it, including Audi's recent announcement that the Q1 would be, in fact, an allroad version of the current A1 hatchback, possibly giving credence to the concept's "coupe-like" stance.
Similarly, the future Audi Q1 will be available with a 5-door body and in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel-drive versions. It will also come with a variety of engines, including a 160-horsepower 1.4 TSI to a 2.0 TDI 140 horsepower. Diesel will also play a strong role in the Q1’s future with a 1.2 Liter TDI cranking out 80 horsepower and a 1.6 Liter motor with outputs ranging from 100 to 120 horsepower.