Is Audi working on an off-road 4x4 to rival the Defender and G-Class?

Audi may be preparing to enter a corner of the 4×4 market with a luxury off-roader aimed squarely at Land Rover’s Defender and the Mercedes-Benz G-Class. 

According to UK-based publisher, Autocar, the model – shrouded in secrecy – is said to combine hardcore off-road capability with Audi’s signature refinement, potentially serving as a flagship for the brand’s more mainstream SUVs.

The concept of a rugged, Quattro-inspired 4×4 has been discussed internally since at least 2023. Design teams have reportedly been drawn to the idea of a bold, upright shape that would stand out in Audi’s line-up while signalling genuine off-road intent. When asked about the project by Autocar, Audi CEO Gernot Döllner offered little concrete information but added intrigue. “Stay tuned,” he said, later adding, “don’t give up on that dream” when pressed on the idea of a true Defender rival.

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Speculation among industry observers suggests the SUV could combine a strong, boxy silhouette with features aimed at serious off-roaders, potentially including advanced traction systems, configurable drive modes, and even electrified powertrains. 

Some insiders also think Audi could benefit from Volkswagen Group’s revived Scout brand in the USA, which is developing all-electric off-roaders. This might give Audi a head start on electrification and rugged capability without developing an entirely new platform from scratch.

At this stage, almost nothing is confirmed. Engines, pricing and production plans remain unknown, and Audi has not officially committed to bringing such a model to market. What is clear, however, is that a fully realised, premium 4×4 from Audi would place the brand in a rarefied segment alongside the Defender and G-Class. 

Audi unveiled the Q6 e-tron offroad concept earlier this year (the photos of which are used throughout this article), a prototype with two electric motors producing 380kW and portal axles that enable climbs of up to 45 degrees. Built on the Premium Platform Electric (PPE), the concept features a 160mm higher ride height and a 250mm wider track.