by Audi considers creating an SUV to compete with the G-Class
Audi has confirmed the seriousness of its intentions to use the design of the Concept C concept presented last year for future models. The first production embodiment was the Lamborghini Temerario-powered Nuvolari, but subsequent models are already on the way. Among them could be a powerful SUV created to compete with the Mercedes-Benz G-Class. This would represent a new direction for the company, whose off-road ambitions were previously limited to raised Allroad station wagons.
Potential design and platform
Back in March of this year, the German brand confirmed that it is considering the possibility of creating a flagship SUV, opening up a new market that had previously not generated significant interest from them. If this car borrows elements from the Nuvolari in the same way the supercar borrowed them from the Concept C, the result could be close to this render by Nikita Chuiko for Kolesa.
We remain uncertain that the flat forms of the Concept C and Nuvolari suit a low two-seat sports car, especially compared to the older Audi TT and R8. However, if you stretch the same design language onto an SUV, Kolesa’s renders make a much more convincing argument in its favor.
The car depicted in the renders resembles the Lexus GX in its overall stance and proportions, which is a great compliment. The front end looks particularly impressive thanks to thin LED headlights, a square central radiator grille, and two large darkened air intakes below the headlights.
Key design elements
Other key design elements include a rugged front bumper and underbody protection, indicating serious off-road intentions for this vehicle. The model also sits on large silver-black wheels with off-road tires. The square roof further emphasizes the model’s overall stance. Moving around to the rear, you can see a pair of LED taillights, a spare tire carrier, and a rear diffuser, which, frankly, looks somewhat out of place on such a vehicle.
Scout platform
If Audi decides to create such a vehicle, it could use the Scout brand’s platform. This would pave the way for fully electric and range-extender versions of the four-ring brand’s G-Class rival, and also allow it to leverage hardware that makes the Scout reliable off-road, including front and rear differential locks and serious ground clearance.
Market competition
Audi may not be the only German brand interested in this segment. BMW is also developing its own G-Class rival under the codename G74, which is expected to be built on a modified version of the CLAR platform underpinning the X5. Both projects could be assembled in South Carolina: BMW at its existing plant in Spartanburg, and Audi together with Scout in Blythewood. This would mean that Mercedes-Benz’s two biggest competitors would be producing their flagship SUVs in the same state.
Such a move by Audi signals a shift in the company’s strategy, which previously avoided a direct confrontation with the legendary G-Class. Using the Scout platform, which has already proven itself as a reliable foundation for electric SUVs, could be a key advantage. At the same time, competition with the BMW G74 promises to be fierce, especially given that both manufacturers plan to localize production in the US. This will not only reduce logistics costs but also allow them to avoid customs barriers, which is an important factor in the current market. Thus, the segment of luxury SUVs capable of serious off-roading could gain two powerful players challenging Mercedes-Benz’s dominance.
