2013 Audi A3

Audi A9 To Rival Mercedes-Benz CL, Spawn Convertible: Report

 
9 3,877 views May 26, 2011
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2011 Audi A8 headlight sketch

2011 Audi A8 headlight sketch



Audi is thought to be readying a brand new model positioned above its current A8 and designed to take on the likes of the Mercedes-Benz CL, which itself is thought to be replaced by an S-Class Coupe and new S-Class Convertible, as well as a rumored coupe version of the Jaguar XJ.

However, the mega Audi, which will likely be called the A9 if it makes production, is still in the very early design stages and could either be built as a four-door coupe or a regular two-door coupe and convertible.

We’ve already reported on the A9 being developed as a four-door coupe but a new report suggests that Audi will go the more traditional route of launching a coupe and soft-top convertible for its latest model.

The A9 is expected to share its underpinnings with the aluminum constructed A8 and be built alongside the flagship sedan, as well as the R8 supercar, at Audi’s plant in Neckarsulm, Germany by 2015--if it’s actually given the green light. Importantly, this will release date will coincide with the launch dates for the CL replacements.

The usual gamut of Audi engines should apply, starting with a 211 horsepower supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 in the base model and ranging all the way up to a 520 horsepower twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 in the sporty S9 variant. All models, of course, will come with quattro all-wheel drive as standard.

Does Audi really need such a model in its lineup? Tell us in the comments section below.

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Comments (9)

  1. Bozo avatar M. M. Posted: 5/26/2011 9:02am PDT

    Does Audi? Sure, man, at least for a moment. Think A8/S8 versus the S-Class Merc, against which the Audi holds its own. Of course, CLs - which I absolutely love - is a 2-door S-Class, so why not have THE MARKET DECIDE? That's the "for a moment" I referred to. Quality-wise regarding the sedans, I'd pay my money for either one if, let's say, one was available but not the other. Same for coupes. If they don't reach sales goals, take it off the market. Case in point: Chevy Volt. Sales #s say nobody wants that piece-of-crap except some hopelessly naive & idealistic dude in Washington. Supposedly we save on gas, but he fails say we'll get screwed at the electrical outlet. We the free-market consumer aint that dumb w/our capitalist cash.
     
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  2. By Countach Posted: 5/26/2011 10:07am PDT

    Comparing designs of Audi to Mercedes model, IMO, I felt most Merc models to be far aggressive to Audi uber conservative lines. But everyone have a preference, otherwise, Audi won't be selling so well. Technologically and built quality, both are in the same league. This A9 will be something to look forward to but I won't hold my breath considering how simple and boring Audi designs are to me. The CLS is a car with superior design, its original and I would love to own it. Anyway, unless Audi release photos of their A9. Let's see how that fares.
     
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  3. By adam Posted: 5/26/2011 1:07pm PDT

    sure they do, does any manufacturer need big bad ass cars? maybe not, but its a good thing they do!
     
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  4. By runner Posted: 5/26/2011 5:27pm PDT

    Definitely, competition is great. As said above, design and an individual thing. But, I greatly prefer Audi's over Mercedes-while agreeing the CLS is the best design in a "coupe". Let's hope jaguar also steps up with a great design coupe! And, let's make coupes 2 doors, but keep the 4 door "coupes".
     
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  5. By NoNameDenton Posted: 5/26/2011 9:13pm PDT

    Well if it is done well like the A5 was for the A4, then it should be a good looking vehicle.
     
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  6. By Edward Posted: 5/27/2011 8:49am PDT

    Great!!!!! A Jaguar 2010 XJ look alike!! That front looks pretty similar to the new Jag's front.
     
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  7. By NoNameDenton Posted: 5/27/2011 3:26pm PDT

    Edward you looking at something the rest of us aren't?
     
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  8. By Aaron Posted: 5/27/2011 11:04pm PDT

    I, for one, am very excited to see this car. I'll admit that past Audi design has been a bit drab for the German luxury market. That being said, the newest audis are absolutely beautiful. As long as the A( draws more inspiration from the A7, A3 concept, and the quattro concept than from the A8 it will be golden.
     
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  9. fb_100001663981238 avatar Daniel Chavez Moran Posted: 6/24/2011 8:51am PDT

    Sounds like a big car...
     
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