Audi Delaying A6 Diesel, A6 and A8 Hybrids

With tougher CAFE standards looming, Audi has got a range of new diesel and hybrid models coming to the US. Next year, Audi has the Q5 crossover and A8 sedan coming with a diesel. However, Audi has put the A6 diesel and Hybrid versions of the A6 and A8 on delay.

In the case of the Hybrids, Audi’s US President, Johann De Nysschen told Ward’s Auto that the pushing back the A6 and A8 Hybrids was largely done to “minimize complexity” in the lineup, since there is a Q5 Hybrid coming next year.

As for the A6 diesel, no official reason was given. But given the mid-size premium sedan segment in the US is sluggish and most of Audi’s sales gains (14.1% so far in 2011) have been at the expense of rivals, perhaps it isn’t the time to launch another vehicle.

De Nysschen also told Ward’s that a diesel version of the A7 for the US is possible.

Source: Ward’s Auto