Nearly three years have passed since Audi’s former design chief hinted at a possible Mercedes-Benz G-Class rival. While the rugged off-road icon continues to enjoy strong sales, Audi has yet to introduce a competing model. That might change soon. While little has transpired since 2023, Audi boss Gernot Döllner recently told Autocar not to "give up on that dream" of a rugged off-road SUV from the brand. Although Döllner has discussed simplifying the Audi lineup, this doesn't mean it will eliminate niche models. He told the publication: 'It works perfectly to have a more focused lineup in the core, and in addition to that have some niche models to build the brand and to also transfer new ideas from a niche segment into the core products. That works perfectly and this is part of our strategy.' Such a model would serve as a flagship and allow Audi to showcase new technology, while competing in a popular and profitable segment. Back in 2023, when Marc Lichte said "there is space" for such a model, he added that the SUV, which was supposed to be electric, would not look like a G-Class or Land Rover Defender. It would be "something else." That something else could be a Scout-based offering, and Audi might use it for more than its bones. The tariffs enacted by United States President Donald Trump pose a problem for Audi, which builds its vehicles outside the country. A Scout-based Audi could allow the automaker to build its G-Class competitor right here in America, avoiding the tariffs, but nothing has been decided yet. According to Döllner, the issue is whether Audi should have a dedicated factory in the US or not, which is a decision that is "dependent on how we are aligned with the US government." Either way, Döllner says we should "stay tuned." We want your opinion! What would you like to see on Motor1.com? Take our 3 minute survey. - The Motor1.com Team
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