Audi considering a rugged off-road SUV variant for US buyers
audi-mediacenter.com
Audi CEO hints at a rugged off-road SUV variant to rival Honda Trailsport and Subaru Wilderness. Could a production model follow the Q6 e-tron offroad concept?
Audi could be looking to expand its SUV lineup with a more rugged off-road variant. According to Motor1, CEO Gernot Döllner told journalists that the company is actively considering the possibility. He noted that the US shouldn't be viewed as a single market—what works in California might not click with Nebraska buyers.
Audi's rationale is clear. The US market is seeing rising demand for crossovers and SUVs that project an off-road image. Motor1 points to examples like Honda's Trailsport and Subaru's Wilderness trims. These trims give buyers that adventure-ready vibe, even if the vehicle rarely leaves the asphalt.
Audi has already dipped its toes into this territory. The brand unveiled the Q6 e-tron offroad concept back in 2025. It rides 16 cm higher and has a track that's 24.9 cm wider than the regular Q6 e-tron. While it's an extreme show car, some of its solutions could feasibly trickle down to a production model.
For now, nothing is confirmed. A more straightforward route could involve upgraded suspension, revised cladding, and more aggressive tire treads on existing SUV models.
