Audi acknowledges its flawed naming strategy and will rename the gasoline A5 back to A4, clearing confusion for buyers and dealers. Learn more now.
Several years ago Audi unveiled an ambitious naming plan: odd numbers for gasoline and diesel models, even numbers for electric cars. The idea seemed tidy on paper, but in practice it created a maze of confusion for customers and dealers alike.
Why the A5 Rebrand Caused a Stir
Under the new scheme, the long‑standing A4 sedan and wagon were suddenly rebranded as the A5— a designation previously reserved for coupes and sportbacks. Prospective buyers were left scratching their heads, and sales staff found themselves repeatedly fielding questions about the sudden switch.
Executive Admission and a Quick Undo
At the Munich Motor Show, Audi CEO Gernot Döllner openly called the decision “a mistake.” He announced that the brand will return to its traditional classification system: “A” for low‑car‑line models, “Q” for SUVs, with the accompanying numbers indicating size or segment.
Following the backlash, Audi promptly reversed the A5‑gasoline name back to A4, preventing a similar fate for the A6 range. Döllner said the move will allow the internal‑combustion A5 to regain the familiar A4 identity when a mid‑cycle refresh arrives in the next few years.
Looking Ahead: Dual A4 Options
While restoring the gasoline badge, Audi is also developing a fully electric A4 e‑tron for the 2028 model year. The upcoming EV will sit on the scalable SSP platform and borrow design cues from the striking Concept C study.
This dual‑path strategy mirrors what BMW and Mercedes‑Benz are doing with their 3‑Series and C‑Class lines—offering buyers both a traditional engine and an electric version under the same marquee.
Past Naming Missteps and Lessons Learned
This isn’t Audi’s first naming blunder. The brand previously abandoned the historic engine‑displacement naming system in favor of alphanumeric designations like “35” and “55,” only to revert after customers expressed confusion.
By returning to its core naming heritage, Audi hopes to reinforce brand clarity and maintain the premium image that has defined the German automaker for over a century.