Audi considering new supercar and compact SUV for U.S. market

Audi’s sales performance in the U.S. still pales in comparison to its main rivals BMW and Mercedes-Benz but the carmaker is determined to build its presence in the world’s biggest market with the launch of new and exciting models. Audi’s U.S. boss has now confirmed that two new vehicles, a compact soft-roader and a new supercar, are both being considered as potential additions to the carmaker’s U.S. lineup.

Johan de Nysschen, executive vice president of Audi of America, told AutoWeek that the compact SUV would be a “lifestyle” product, similar to Toyota's RAV4. The new vehicle would be positioned below the recently revealed Q5, which is set to go on sale early next year.

Audi is working on a new Q3 but because of deal with Nissan where the “Q” badge can only be used on the Q5 and Q7 the new compact SUV would likely get a new name in the U.S.

De Nysschen wasn’t willing to reveal details about the new supercar but a Spider convertible version of the R8 is due as well as a high-performance V10 model and both of these are likely to be earmarked for the U.S.

2010 Audi Q3 SUV rendering

2009 Audi Q5 S-Line

2009 Audi Q5