What’s Coming in 2026: Audi’s Trio of Major Launches

[Source: Motor1]

Although the recent third quarter sales report shows a few glimmers of hope, there is no question that Audi has more work to do in order to turn the ship around. As reported by the folks at Motor1, one of the ways Audi plans to do that is by introducing a host of new models in 2026.

To support the third quarter investor relations call, Audi produced a document that outlines their new product offensive for 2026. It includes a trio of major launches for next year. Audi plans to launch a new Q7, and full-size Q9 SUV and a new entry-level EV. They are not the sexiest models that Audi enthusiasts can dream of. However, before we can expect a new halo car such as the R8, Audi needs to shore up their bottom line. These three vehicles may go a long way towards that.

2026 Plans

Audi, like many other automakers, is backing off the aggressive EV vehicle targets. So, while a new entry-level EV is in the mix for 2026, the Q7 and the Q9 will pack internal combustion power. While a diesel return to the U.S. may be a long shot, it is likely that both the Q7 and Q9 will offer TDI variants in Europe.

As for the EV, we expect it to be the Q2 e-tron which we previously spotted during testing. As the name and smaller size suggest, it will slot under the Q4 e-tron. With the Q4 e-tron starting at $50,600, and the Q6 e-tron at $63,800 the new Q2 e-tron should be priced closer to the $40,000 mark.

None of these three new cars are expected to adopt Audi’s new design language that debuted on the Concept C. We will have to wait a bit longer than that. But don’t despair, there is some good news. Audi is planning on launching a couple of new RS models based on vehicles in the current lineup. That could mean the return of the RS 5. The new RS 5 will likely pack a hybrid V6 powerplant that will most certainly produce more than the 444-horsepower that we got in the previous generation RS 5.

Audi might be a bit down right now, but they are positioning themselves for a big comeback. In 2026, we can expect to see the new Q7, Q9 and Q2 e-tron. We will get new RS models. The Audi Formula 1 team will take the grid. And we will be a year closer to the Concept C becoming a reality. That is a lot to look forward to.