Audi will significantly reshuffle its compact lineup when the next-generation A3 family arrives in 2018. The German automaker is reportedly considering dropping the three-door A3 hatchback in favor of a four-passenger TT, as well as building an A3 Sportback Allroad and even an A3 minivan.
While the fate of the slow-selling three-door A3 hatchback is almost sealed, the popular A3 Sportback will likely gain a rugged Allroad version. Rumor has it Audi plans to expand the Allroad lineup with models based on the A5 Sportback and A7 Sportback as well.
Audi is also said to plan a compact four-passenger TTC coupe that would be more or less related to the TT. The Audi TTC is envisioned as a roomier, more practical and more affordable alternative to the TT – somewhat similar to the VW Scirocco or Hyundai Veloster. Work on the TTC Concept is said to have already begun.
Finally, Audi’s compact family may get an MPV that would rival BMW’s 2-Series Gran Tourer. However, an Audi A3 minivan would not target the European market, but China, where Audi believes premium compact people carriers will soon be in high demand.
“While there is no shortage of upmarket, compact-size four- and five-seaters, we believe that before long every leading premium brand will need a compact-size seven-seater,” an Audi product planner told Automobile. “You see, while the executives always travel in style, the workers must follow in very basic people-movers like the best-selling Wuling Hongguang. Audi is thinking to smooth over this difference in style with a new model not unlike the BMW Gran Tourer,” the source added.
Note: 2006 Audi Roadjet Concept pictured
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