It’s the end of an era for one of Audi’s longest-running nameplates. The Audi A6, a staple of the luxury sedan world for more than 25 years, is being retired after 2025. But don’t panic just yet—this isn’t a simple goodbye. In classic Audi fashion, it’s a rebranding and rebirth. Starting with the 2026 model year, the A6 name will live on as a cutting-edge electric vehicle, while its gasoline-powered counterpart will take on an entirely new name: A7.
A Whole New Naming Strategy
Here’s where things get interesting—and a little confusing. Audi is reworking its entire naming system to better reflect its electric transition.
- Even numbers (A4 → A6 → A8) will now designate fully electric models built on Audi’s next-generation EV architecture.
- Odd numbers (A3 → A5 → A7 → A9) will represent gasoline and hybrid vehicles that continue Audi’s combustion heritage.
That means the A6 you know today—the sleek, tech-filled luxury sedan with mild-hybrid powertrains—will effectively split into two distinct successors: the A6 e-tron and the A7.
The Electric Successor: Audi A6 e-tron
Audi’s all-new A6 e-tron will take over the luxury EV space for the brand. Built on the PPE (Premium Platform Electric) architecture co-developed with Porsche, it’s shaping up to be one of the most advanced sedans Audi has ever made.
⚡ Key Highlights
- Range: Expected to exceed 400 miles (WLTP) thanks to a high-capacity battery and 800-volt fast-charging tech.
- Performance: Dual-motor all-wheel drive with output ranging from 400 hp in base form to over 700 hp in the RS6 e-tron performance variant.
- Charging: Capable of replenishing up to 80% charge in around 25 minutes using 270 kW fast chargers.
- Design: Sleek proportions, frameless glass, digital matrix LED lighting, and a drag coefficient as low as 0.22.
Inside, expect Audi’s latest Digital Stage cockpit: a full-width OLED display setup, sustainable materials, and AI-enhanced driver assistance systems. Think of it as the luxury-tech answer to the Tesla Model S and Porsche Taycan.
The RS6 e-tron in particular could become one of Audi Sport’s most powerful cars ever—an electric halo vehicle that maintains the brand’s reputation for autobahn-destroying performance, even without a V8 soundtrack.
The Gasoline Successor: Audi A7 (2026)
Meanwhile, the new A7 will fill the role of the traditional midsize luxury sedan for buyers who aren’t ready to plug in just yet. Despite the familiar name, this A7 will be a completely new generation, not a facelift of the current model.
🛠 Under the Hood
Expect a lineup of mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid drivetrains derived from the latest EA839 V6 and 2.0-liter turbo engines. A PHEV A7 55 TFSI e could offer 40–50 miles of electric range while maintaining strong performance.
🎨 Design Language
The A7 will feature sharper proportions and more coupe-like styling than the outgoing A6, with a focus on efficiency, aerodynamics, and technology integration. Audi is expected to give it the same minimalist interior approach as the A6 e-tron, with sustainable materials and a new MMI Touch Pro interface powered by the Volkswagen Group’s E³ 2.0 software platform.
🧭 Positioning
In simple terms:
- The A6 e-tron = luxury EV flagship for early adopters.
- The A7 = refined hybrid sedan for traditional buyers who still want an engine.
Why Audi Is Making the Change
The shift reflects Audi’s broader goal of going fully electric by 2033. As global emissions standards tighten—particularly in Europe and China—Audi wants a clear, future-proof naming convention that separates EVs from combustion models.
It’s also a marketing strategy: simplifying the lineup and setting expectations. When customers see an even number, they’ll know it’s an EV; when they see an odd number, it’s a hybrid or gas-powered car.
It may take a little getting used to, but Audi hopes this move will make its lineup easier to understand long-term as the brand transitions to electric mobility.
What About the Avant and RS Models?
Good news for wagon lovers: the A6 Avant e-tron is confirmed, bringing all that electric luxury to a sleek estate body. As for performance fans, RS variants of both the A6 e-tron and A7 are in development, ensuring the brand’s motorsport DNA continues well into the EV age.
Final Thoughts
For 2026, Audi isn’t just replacing a car—it’s redefining how it names, powers, and positions its lineup. The A6 name will live on as a high-tech EV, while the A7 carries the torch for internal combustion and hybrid fans.
It’s a bold, somewhat confusing move—but one that perfectly reflects the crossroads the auto industry is facing. Electric innovation and combustion tradition are now moving forward side by side.
So, what do you think? Is this the smart way to bridge both worlds—or will Audi’s new naming scheme create more chaos than clarity?
