Audi Naming System Explained: What The Letters & Numbers Mean (2024)

Many car enthusiasts can easily tell the difference between the classic Audi, or A, models and the illustrious S and RS series. However, if you're new to Audi and interested in buying into the brand, understanding the meaning behind the letters and numbers can help you make an informed decision based on your preferences and desired driving experience.

In this article, we explore the history of the Audi model naming convention and what the different characters mean. If you're looking to purchase a performance car — one that's sporty and boasts a powerful engine — we'll explain what model numbers and letters to look for to find your perfect new Audi.

History of the Audi Naming Convention

Audi'snomenclature has undergone several changes over the years, reflecting the evolution of the brand and its expanding lineup. In the 1960s, Audi used numbers that indicated the vehicle's engine displacement. For example, the Audi 100 represented a vehicle with a power output of 100 PS (74 kW). In the 1990s, Audi introduced the A designation for its base models and the S for its sport, or performance-oriented, models. The company launched the A3 through A8 models, with the numbers indicating the car's position in the lineup from smaller and simpler to larger and more luxurious.

Audi gave the moniker RS to high-performance models. The Q series began rolling off the line in 2006, representing the company's SUV lineup, with models of various sizes and levels of luxury. With the launch of the new A8 luxury sedan in 2018, Audi made another change. Instead of using a single letter followed by a number, Audi started using two numbers on the back of every Audi vehicle alongside the existing model designation and engine type. The numbers depend on power output and range from 30 to 70. In 2019, Audi launched electric vehicles under the e-tron label.

Audi Model Letters: What They Mean

Audi's model letters are part of its alphanumeric naming convention. They provide information about the vehicle's body style. Audi base models start with the letter A. These models range in size from the Audi A3, which is an entry-level subcompact sedan, to the Audi A8, which is a full-size sedan. Audi uses the letter S to represent sport versions of the A models and RS for its top-tier performance vehicles, while SUVs start with the letter Q. Here's a breakdown of what each letter signifies:

• A: This stands for Audi and represents the carmaker's standard models — a diverse range of vehicles that includes sedans, hatchbacks, and wagons.
• S: S indicates Sport and applies to Audi's performance-oriented models. These vehicles generally offer enhanced performance features, sportier styling, and more powerful engines.
• RS: RS stands for “RennSport,” which means “racing” in German. These are Audi's high-performance models, which feature advanced engineering, increased power, and a more dynamic driving experience.
• Q:This series is the quattro, which is Audi's SUV lineup: the Q3, Q5, Q7, and Q8. The number indicates the size and placement of the SUV within the group.
• TT: The recently discontinued Audi TT got its name from the Isle of Man TT, or Tourist Trophy, motorcycle race. The TT is a compact sports car model known for its distinctive design and sporty performance.

Audi Model Numbers

Audi's model numbers typically indicate the vehicle's size or position along the luxury continuum, but they no longer directly correlate with engine displacement. The size of cars in each series increases with each number from three to eight. For example, the Q3 is a subcompact crossover SUV, while the Q8 indicates a full-size SUV. Here's a brief breakdown of Audi's model numbers:

• Audi A3: The A3 is a compact sedan.
• Audi A4: The A4 is a small to midsize sedan or wagon.
• Audi A5: The A5 is a coupe, convertible, or sportback model.
• Audi A6: The A6 is a midsize sedan or wagon.
• Audi A7: The A7 is a sportback model with both sedan and hatchback features.
• Audi A8:The A8 is a full-size luxury sedan.
• Audi Q3, Q5, and Q7:These are compact SUVs or crossovers.
• Audi Q8: The Q8 is a luxury SUV or crossover with coupe-like styling.
• Audi TT: The TT is a heritage compact sports car.
• Audi R8: The R8 is a heritage high-performance sports car.

These letter and number combinations form Audi's comprehensive model-naming system. Understanding Audi's model numbers can help you identify the type of vehicle and its general characteristics.

Here is a quick breakdown of the new naming structure:

• 30: 109-128 hp (81-96 kW)
• 35: 147-160 hp (110-120 kW)
• 40:167-201 hp (125-150 kW)
• 45: 226-248 hp (169-185 kW)
• 50:281-308 hp (210-230 kW)
• 55: 328-368 hp (245-275 kW)
• 60: 429-455 hp (320-340 kW)
• 70: 536+ hp (400+ kW)

Audi Performance Model Numbers and Letters

Audi designates its high-performance models with the letters S and RS, accompanied by specific model numbers. These vehicles deliver enhanced driving dynamics, more powerful engines, and sportier features. Here's a breakdown of Audi's performance model numbers and letters:

• S Models: Models with the S designation indicate sportier and more performance-focused versions of Audi's standard lineup. Models in this category include the Audi S3, S4, S5, S6, S7, S8, SQ5, SQ7, and SQ8.
• RS Models:Models withRS in their name represent the pinnacle of Audi's performance lineup, featuring high-performance engines, advanced technology, and aggressive styling. Examples include the Audi RS 3 and the RS 5.

These performance models are known for their exceptional handling, powerful engines, and a range of features tailored to enthusiasts seeking a more exhilarating driving experience. The combination of the S or RS and a specific model number helps customers easily identify and differentiate these high-performance variants from Audi's standard lineup.

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