With Audi moving downwards with its A1, upcoming A2 and smaller SUV models like the Q3 and rumoured Q1, you might think the trend over at Audi was to start making smaller models. But appears a new, larger model could be in the works which would be a step above the A8 limousine.

It would come in the form of a new Audi A9 coupé and would become the range’s new flagship. Car suggests that the next stop for Audi is world domination as it looks determined to continue an ever-expanding line. The A9 would be based on the A8 sedan and would be a four-seater coupé which could appear in 2014.

It’s too early to say what engine range the new halo model will have, although Car has a few suggestions ranging from the 3.0 V6 TFSI with 211 hp, to the 4.2-litre V8 TDI with 350 hp. We’re not keen on the idea of an Audi Q1 making production, but this kind of model makes sense for us as Audi tries to produce something that will compete with BMW and Mercedes, and be an original its flagbearer outside the sedan-limousine box. The A8 is lovely, but perhaps doesn’t quite make the grade.

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The future Audi A9 flagship sedan could come in three versions, according to AutoBild magazine. The sedan-coupé model to appear might turn up only later, after a 2014 debut of an Audi A9 coupe and A9 cabriolet. While we’re spoiled for choice in an ever-expanding Audi model range, these new versions will be designed to compete with the Mercedes CL and SL range, with prices starting at about €80,000.

The Audi A9 should prove to be Audi’s complete dive into the higher-end luxury realm, but we may have to wait until about 2015 for the sedan model which could be priced above €100,000. It will be even more luxurious than the current Audi A8 and should maintain the sedan-coupe look in keeping with the A5 Sportback and Audi A7.

The Audi A9 should get the W12 engine along with the new four-litre, twin-turbo V8 recently announced on the Bentley Continental GT and expected for the new Audi S6. The Lamborghini Estoque could be developed alongside the Audi A9, but more news on that later, as well as a new Audi model to slot between the Q5 and the Q7.

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A new luxury limousine model, the Audi A9, could soon be on the scene as reports say that the company will develop a new car to compete with rivals such as the Porsche Panamera, Mercedes CL and the upcoming BMW GranCoupé concept. Autocar states that the Audi A9 would still be a coupé-like sedan and would be a mix of sports driving and luxury style.

Audi has apparently confirmed that a case is being made for the vehicle, both at business and engineering levels, the latter which could include some exciting developments including an aluminium space frame and what is known as MLB, or modular longitudinal architecture. The latter two could also provide a platform for the Lamborghini Estoque model, which has been in and out of production rumours a number of times since it first appeared.

The A9 would also use chassis components from the Audi A8 and creating a common platform across all three models could provide some significant savings, and make production for both the A9 and Estoque viable. Lamborghini boss Winkelmann has previously stated that producing the Estoque could only be done in collaboration with the Volkswagen Group due to the significant investments involved.

The Lamborghini and Audi will have different engines, with the A9 likely to receive a 4.0-litre V8 and a 6.3-litre W12, while the Estoque will probably get the Gallardo’s 5.2-litre V10. The Audi will be priced in line with the competitors mentioned above, while the Estoque will have a more upmarket playing field.

Source | Autocar

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