Audi is adopting a standardised nomenclature for the power output designations of its model range, which will apply worldwide. The names of the model series - from Audi A1 to Audi Q7 - will remain unchanged. Within the model families, combinations of two numbers will replace the various type designations previously used. The new designations stand for the specific power output and apply both to cars with combustion engines and to e-tron models with hybrid and electric drives.

The reference value for the new model designations is the power output of the individual model in kilowatts (kW). Audi is therefore creating sub-classifications within the range based on performance levels, each identified by a two-numeral combination. For example, the numeral combination '30' will appear on the rear of all models with power outputs of between 81kW and 96kW (109bhp and 129bhp). And '45' represents power outputs of between 169kW and 185kW (227bhp and 248bhp). In each case the numerals appear along with the engine technology indicator - TFSI, TDI, g-tron or e-tron.

The number combinations identifying the performance levels in the Audi product range increase in increments of five, and they represent the hierarchy within both the respective model series and the brand's overall model range. According to the new nomenclature, the spectrum will initially range from the Audi A1 25 TFSI with 70kW (94bhp) to the Audi A8 55 TFSI with 250kW (335bhp). A special place in the lineup is occupied by the high-end, high-performance S and RS models and the Audi R8. They will retain their classic names in reference to their top position in the model range.

"As alternative drive technologies become increasingly relevant, engine displacement as a performance attribute is becoming less important to our customers. The clarity and logic of structuring the designations according to power output makes it possible to distinguish between the various performance levels," explains Dr. Dietmar Voggenreiter, Board of Management Member for Sales and Marketing at Audi AG.

The changes will kick off with the new Audi A8 generation in the autumn of 2017. First among the two six-cylinder engines to be redesignated will be the 3.0 TDI with 210kW (282bhp) - as the Audi A8 50 TDI, and the 3.0 TFSI with 250kW (335bhp) - as the Audi A8 55 TFSI.

In the coming months, all Audi model series launched on the market will be assigned the new performance designations beginning when they are offered for sale. Audi will change the designations of the remaining model series in the current product range in time for the new model year changeover in the summer of 2018.