Audi returns to its old naming strategy: What about the A5?

Audi returns to its old naming strategy: What about the A5?

06 February 2025

Good news for those who were confused by Audi’s recent naming strategy: the brand is reversing course. This means that the successor to the A6 will simply remain… the A6. But what does this mean for the A5?

A year ago, Audi introduced a “new” A5, which was actually the replacement for the A4. This was part of a new logic: even numbers (like A4) were reserved for electric models, while odd numbers (like A5) were assigned to combustion-engine vehicles. Sounds logical, right?

Well, not quite. Audi has now announced that it is once again standardizing its model names to “increase clarity.” In practical terms, this means that model numbers will once again reflect market positioning and size, regardless of powertrain.

So what about the A5? It’s not going anywhere, but it will no longer serve as a replacement for the A4. Instead, it will fit back into Audi’s traditional naming structure. This reversal aims to improve model recognition and eliminate confusion among customers.

With this decision, Audi acknowledges that an overly drastic naming change isn’t always well received. In a rapidly evolving automotive industry, flexibility is key, and this move shows that Audi listens to its customers. A clear and consistent naming strategy will only strengthen brand identity and enhance the overall user experience.