First Pictures: Audi Q6

The BMW X6, arguably one of the most pointless vehicles today, is about to be joint by a contender. It will even share the same numeral with the X6! Audi, in its quest to be the number one premium brand in Germany is working on a coupé-style SUV, likely to be called the Q6.

It is obvious that Audi has its eye on the awkwardly styled BMW X6, which surprisingly has been a success, selling more than 110,000 units.

The newcomer will share its architecture with the new VW Touareg and Porsche Cayenne, which itself is based on a shortened version of the Audi Q7 platform.Like the X6, Audi’s flamboyant SUV will be a 4-seater with reduced boot space. This is unlikely to be an issue with its targeted market as style takes precedence over packaging.

According to our source, Audi will carry over the crisp lines and bold wheel arches from the Q7. The smaller SUV will however sport a sexier profile with more steeply raked screens and a lower roofline. It will also come with an updated facia as seen on the new A6 with sleek headlamps and a smaller grille. At the rear, wraparound tail-lights and a curved boot spoiler create a visual link to the Audi A7 coupé

No specifications yet at this stage about the engine line-up, but the Q6 will be available in petrol and diesel V6s. A hybrid with the same supercharged V6-electric motor combination as fitted to the Cayenne and Touareg is also in the pipeline.

Some sources are even suggesting that a top of the range model is on the cards, powered by a brand new 4.0-litre V8 turbo which will debut in the Audi S6 and Bentley Continental GT later this year. This model will be aimed squarely at the 408kW BMW X6 M.

All models will feature permanent quattro all-wheel drive – with the aim of boosting on-road stability more than mud-plugging ability.

The Q6 is likely to make its world debut in concept form at next month’s Shanghai Motor Show.

Source: AutoExpress