Audi could enter the ever-popular dual-cab 4×4 ute segment in the coming years, if previous suggestions come to fruition.
In March 2022, Audi CEO Markus Duesmann hinted at a four-ringed pick-up model at the company’s annual earnings conference, stating (via Autocar): “I can’t promise that we will do one, but we are looking into it.”
“Actually, we will present – not too far from now – maybe something,” he added, with no further detail, including whether this refers to a concept model or an official confirmation.
It is unclear how Audi plans to develop a ute, should it be given the tick of approval.
However, the development time would likely take several years, missing the 2025 deadline for the unveiling of Audi’s last all-new petrol or diesel model.
Therefore, the utility would likely feature a battery-electric powertrain to rival the Ford F-150 Lightning, Rivian R1T and Chevrolet Silverado EV – or smaller vehicles, such as a potential Ford Ranger Lightning.
Audi will begin phasing out internal-combustion vehicles in the early 2030s, excluding the Chinese market.
In the meantime, rendering artist Theottle has imagined a potential Audi ute, with inspiration coming from the recently-revealed Q6 large SUV designed for the Chinese market, to demonstrate the brand’s styling when applied to a ute body.
The rendering uses the new-generation, Ford Ranger-based Volkswagen Amarok as its core, with modifications including; a full-width rear light bar, slim headlights, a large singleframe grille and ‘quattro’ all-wheel-drive badging.
This approach is less likely since the short-lived Mercedes-Benz X-Class, which was based on the current Nissan Navara, demonstrated low demand for a prestige ladder-frame workhorse, in addition to the growing shift towards electrification – a move led by luxury brands, including Audi.
Mercedes-Benz produced the X-Class between 2017 and 2020 with an optional V6 diesel mill, before it was axed due to low sales in key markets and cost-cutting initiatives.
In addition, unlike Mercedes-Benz, Audi has no significant experience in developing and selling commercial vehicles; however, it could leverage support from the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles division.
One option could be to develop the Volkswagen Group’s first ute on a dedicated electric vehicle platform, such as the existing MEB architecture found on the Q4 E-Tron or the forthcoming PPE architecture set to underpin the Q6 E-Tron.
The rear-drive Premium Patform Electric (PPE) architecture has been jointly developed with Porsche, offering air suspension, all-wheel steering, torque vectoring and the company’s latest-generation software components, with a new infotainment suite based on the Android Automotive operating system.
More costly utes are proving successful in Australia, with the Ford Ranger Raptor joining rival brands such as Mazda, Nissan and Volkswagen in offering range-topping models – albeit with an off-road focus.
The momentum is also growing in the United States, with examples including the luxurious Ford F-150 Platinum, GMC Sierra Denali and Toyota Tundra Capstone, as well as the performance-orientated Ram 1500 TRX and Ford F-150 Raptor R.
COMMENTS
Keyword: Audi ute: Amarok-based model rendered