Audi to Ditch Fake Exhaust Tips on Future Models
Over the past decade, Audi has been criticized for its practice of using fake exhaust tips on some of its models. The diesel S5 in Europe was particularly notorious for this, as were the SQ5 and S6. However, Audi has now made a welcome commitment to do away with these controversial faux pipes on its upcoming models.
In a recent interview with Auto Express magazine, an Audi spokesperson confirmed that future cars built on the new Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) architecture will feature “hot tailpipes; functional tailpipes.” This decision comes in response to customer feedback, which has been overwhelmingly negative towards the fake exhaust tips. The new A5 Sedan and A5 Avant, along with their performance S5 variants, are leading the charge in this new direction.
A noticeable trend in the automotive industry is the placement of exhaust tips underneath the bumper for a more streamlined look. Audi, however, is keen on showcasing real exhaust setups on its upcoming PPC-based cars. It remains to be seen whether smaller vehicles on the MQB platform will follow suit to maintain a cohesive design across the lineup.
Several other PPC-based models are in the pipeline, including the Q5, A7, and Q7, all of which are expected to receive the S treatment without the fake exhaust tips. Additionally, a larger three-row SUV, tentatively known as the Q9, is set to compete with rivals like the BMW X7 and Mercedes GLS. The fate of the A8 remains uncertain, with speculation that it may be rebranded as the A9 if a next-generation combustion engine version is developed.
Audi is also updating its nomenclature by assigning odd numbers to combustion cars and even numbers to electric vehicles. This shift has seen the transition from the A4 to the new A5, with plans for the A6 to become the A7 with gasoline and diesel engines. This strategic move allows Audi to introduce fully electric models like the A6, followed by a smaller A4 without combustion engines in the future.
As Audi continues its transition towards electric mobility, the era of fake exhaust tips is coming to an end. The company aims to go entirely electric by 2033, with the production of internal combustion engine cars possibly continuing in China based on local demand.
In conclusion, Audi’s decision to eliminate fake exhaust tips from its future models reflects a commitment to authenticity and customer satisfaction. With a lineup of upcoming PPC-based models and a shift towards electric mobility, Audi is poised to lead the way in innovative and sustainable automotive design.
