For many years, BMW and Audi watched from the sidelines whereas Mercedes principally printed cash with the G-Class. Land Rover has additionally loved immense success with the Defender. Nonetheless, it wasn’t till a couple of years in the past that the British off-roader ventured into luxurious territory. Higher late than by no means, the 2 notable absentees from this area of interest at the moment are laying the groundwork to launch their very own posh, go-anywhere SUVs.
BMW is growing a “G74” model for 2029 with true off-road chops. It’s anticipated to return in each plug-in hybrid and totally electrical variations, constructed on the CLAR platform. As for Audi, the corporate’s boss just lately hinted that the 4 Rings are getting ready to enter this phase as effectively. Gernot Döllner informed Autocar we must always “keep tuned” for a rugged SUV distinct from the common lineup of Q-badged fashions.
The top of Audi additionally inspired prospects dreaming of a high-riding luxurious car to “not quit on that dream.” Given how profitable the luxurious off-roader phase is in the US, it makes excellent sense for Audi to focus on G-Class and Defender patrons. It’s nonetheless unclear when the mannequin will arrive, or whether or not it should debut earlier than BMW’s personal contender.
For the reason that “G74” will use the CLAR platform, it should actually function a unibody development. Against this, the G-Class and Defender have a ladder body. It’s too early for Audi to share technical particulars, however we do know that dad or mum firm Volkswagen Group is reviving the Scout model with the Traveler SUV. A Terra pickup truck can also be deliberate, with each fashions sharing a body-on-frame structure. The Scout duo will likely be electrical, out there with or with out range-extending gasoline engines.
Whereas many fans would like to see BMW, Audi, and Mercedes conflict within the sports activities automobile area, SUVs are the smarter enterprise transfer. The German luxurious trio can leverage present architectures to create new fashions and maximize economies of scale, reasonably than investing closely in bespoke low-volume vehicles. Ideally, the income from these SUVs will assist fund the event of enjoyable, enthusiast-oriented autos.
One space the place they received’t compete is the pickup market. The Nissan Navara-based X-Class was a monetary catastrophe, making it unlikely Mercedes will try one other posh truck anytime quickly. BMW has toyed with the thought of a pickup, however has made it clear {that a} production version isn’t happening. As for Audi, it doesn’t actually need one, contemplating the Volkswagen Group already has that phase (roughly) lined with the Amarok.
Supply: Autocar
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