Remember the days when Audi said it would only do one RS model at a time? When there was the
original RS4
RS6
, and so on? They're a long time ago now. Already there are seven Audi RS models currently on sale (the R8 is included in that number), with the news now
from Autocar
that that number will double.
RS Q3 paves the way for more SUVs?
"There is more to come," Stephan Winkelmann said of the newly renamed
Audi Sport
. "We have one company, one name and we have a brand. But we will remain exclusive."
Moreover, this growth is set to be rapid. It's being predicted that the RS range will comprise 15 models by 2018, which inevitably leads to some speculation on what they might be. An RS1 has been suggested, an RS Q5 seems likely given the success of the diesel SQ5 and an R8 RS - taking inspiration from the GT3 car perhaps - would surely be popular. Or a diesel... Add the imminent RS5 and RS4 (plus probably an RS5 Sportback) and that's six models already.
The glut of AMG and BMW M models must have contributed to Audi's decision; remember there are now four models in the '45' range of Mercedes-AMG products, plus BMW's popular large M SUVs that conspicuously lack opposition from the Audi line up. Don't say you weren't warned...
Expect more niche busting to follow!
However, Winkelmann's intention is not apparently to increase sales hugely: "We are not going to do what they do", he said, commenting on AMG's recent sales success. So exact plans will remain under wraps for a little longer, although he has promised double digit growth for Audi Sport in the next 12 months.
It's sure to be a busy time coming up for fast Audis then. What would you like to see? What do you not want to see? Get your dynamic stereotypes prepared now!