How to Decode Audi Model Numbers: A Complete Guide for 2024

Audi remains one of the world’s premier car manufacturers, celebrated for its attention to engineering, design, and technological advancement. Yet, for many enthusiasts and prospective buyers, navigating Audi’s model lineup can be puzzling—mainly due to the cryptic combinations of letters and numbers used to designate each vehicle. Understanding the meaning behind Audi model numbers not only helps car lovers and buyers make informed decisions but also deepens appreciation for the brand’s approach to innovation and tradition. In this guide, we provide a comprehensive breakdown of Audi model numbers, what they represent, and how to decode the system for a better car buying or owning experience.

Why Audi uses alphanumeric model codes

Audi uses alphanumeric codes to organize its lineup and to indicate a vehicle’s position within the brand’s hierarchy, its body style, and sometimes the engine or performance classification. This system allows for a global standard that is easily recognizable, whether you are in Europe, North America, or Asia. Automotive historians point out that such model codes provide clarity—up to a point—but require consumers to understand the logic behind the combinations.

The tradition of using numbers and letters stems from the manufacturer’s heritage and desire to differentiate models for both marketing and engineering purposes. As new technologies, market trends, and regulations emerge, Audi updates its nomenclature occasionally, which is why understanding current codes and historical changes can be especially useful.

Understanding Audi’s core model numbers

Audi models are typically identified by a single letter followed by a number (for example, A4, Q5, S3). The letter designates the series or category, and the number generally indicates the vehicle’s relative size or position in the lineup. Let’s explore these components in greater detail.

The letters: Series and body style

Audi assigns letters to correspond with vehicle classes, performance, or body styles:

• A: The standard “A” series includes sedans, hatchbacks, and wagons. Examples: A3, A4, A6.
• Q: The “Q” series designates SUVs and crossovers. Examples: Q3, Q5, Q7, Q8.
• S: S models are sportier, performance-oriented versions of the standard lineup. Examples: S4, S5, S6.
• RS: The RS badge stands for “RennSport” (racing sport) and marks the highest-performance road-legal variants. Examples: RS4, RS6.
• TT/R8: The Audi TT is a compact sports car, while the R8 represents a high-performance supercar, both named as exceptions outside the standard system.
• e-tron: This moniker indicates Audi’s all-electric or hybrid vehicles—applied either as a suffix or a separate sub-brand.

The numbers: Model size and rank

The numbers following the letter identify the specific model within a series. Contrary to some assumptions, these numbers do not typically refer to engine displacement, but rather to the model’s size and seniority:

• Odd numbers like 3, 5, 7, typically indicate smaller to larger models within the series. A3 is a compact car, A4 is midsize, A6 is executive, and so forth.
• Higher numbers represent larger vehicles or those with more features, higher price brackets, or greater prestige.
• The Q7 is bigger and more luxurious than the Q5; similarly, the A8 stands as Audi’s flagship sedan, above the A6 and A4.

Although engine displacement once played a role in naming, turbocharging and hybridization have made this less relevant. In the past, model numbers (like Audi 100 or Audi 200) often referred to engine output or size, but modern conventions aim for market positioning and clarity rather than technical specifics.

Further decoding: Suffixes and special designations

In addition to the basic letter-number sequence, several suffixes or additional notations give more detailed information about the vehicle:

• Allroad: Indicates raised, off-road-capable wagons with rugged styling, e.g., A4 Allroad.
• Avant: Denotes a wagon (estate) body style, especially in Europe.
• Cabriolet/Sportback: Refers to convertible and hatchback variants, respectively.
• L: Signifies a long-wheelbase version, often designed for Asian markets where the preference is for larger rear seating space.
• e-tron: Used for all-electric or plug-in hybrid versions.

Within the RS, S, and e-tron family, these details provide clarity for shoppers who desire a particular body or performance style.

Audi model numbers explained: The entire range

Let’s look at Audi’s 2024 lineup and how its model numbers fit into the explained system:

• A Series: A3 (compact), A4 (midsize), A5 (midsize sportback/coupe), A6 (executive), A7 (executive sportback), A8 (flagship luxury sedan).
• Q Series: Q3 (compact SUV), Q4 e-tron (compact electric SUV), Q5 (midsize SUV), Q7 (full-size SUV), Q8 (luxury SUV).
• S and RS Series: Sportier versions of the A and Q lineup, for example, S3, S6, RS3, RS7.
• TT/R8: Standalone sports and supercars.
• e-tron: Features across SUV and sedan/coupe formats, including Q4 e-tron, Q8 e-tron, and the e-tron GT.

Note that Audi occasionally retires or updates certain model numbers to adapt to new technologies, market demands, or emissions standards.

A closer look: Audi’s numbering evolution and recent changes

Audi’s model naming conventions have evolved alongside automotive technology. Notable changes include the gradual move away from referencing engine displacement. In 2017, for instance, Audi introduced a two-digit numbering format to further standardize technical information, placed after the model name.

This new format—found on models such as “A6 45 TFSI quattro”—uses the number “45” to reflect a power output range, while “TFSI” specifies turbocharged fuel stratified injection, and “quattro” indicates all-wheel drive.

The two-digit identifiers (ranging from 25 to 70) signal a bracketed power output rather than direct horsepower:

• 25: 81–96 horsepower (hp)
• 30: 110–129 hp
• 35: 150–163 hp
• 40: 170–204 hp
• 45: 230–252 hp
• 50: 286–313 hp
• 55: 333–381 hp
• 60: 435–462 hp
• 70: Over 540 hp (mainly electric models)

This approach has raised some criticism for being less intuitive to consumers accustomed to engine size-based badges, but it establishes consistency across gasoline, diesel, hybrid, and electric drivetrains.

Performance, drivetrain, and fuel type badges

Besides the model number and size codes, Audi includes additional nomenclature on badges that reveal how a car is powered or driven. Some of the most common are:

• quattro: Audi’s branded all-wheel drive system, found on performance-focused or higher-end models.
• TFSI: Turbocharged Fuel Stratified Injection, designating gasoline engines with turbocharging.
• TDI: Turbocharged Direct Injection, used for diesel engines.
• TSI: Used occasionally to describe turbocharged gasoline engines.
• e-tron: Denotes hybrid or full electric powertrains.

Combining these with model numbers gives a comprehensive snapshot of the vehicle: for example, the “Audi Q5 40 TDI quattro” is a midsize SUV with diesel power in the 170–204 hp range and all-wheel drive.

Myths and misunderstandings about Audi model numbers

With such a diverse system, misconceptions are common.

• Myth 1: The number always refers to engine size. Modern Audi numbers rarely correspond to engine displacement. For instance, the Audi A4 40 TFSI’s engine may be a 2.0-liter unit, not a 4.0-liter.
• Myth 2: Bigger numbers equal faster cars. While generally true for the basic lineup, performance models (S and RS) often far exceed the power of even the highest “A” series numbers.
• Myth 3: Electric models are separate from the main lineup. In reality, e-tron models share many design and equipment elements with their combustion-engine siblings, but incorporate electric powertrains.

Tips for prospective Audi buyers

If you’re considering an Audi, understanding model numbers can make it much easier to navigate the dealership or configure your vehicle online.

• Know your needs: Identify what you’re expecting in size, performance, efficiency, and luxury, then look for model series and numbers that match.
• Check power designations: Pay attention to the two-digit codes if you want a precise understanding of performance, especially for hybrid and electric variants.
• Request clarification: Dealer personnel should be able to explain model codes and feature packages. Don’t hesitate to ask.
• Explore drivetrain badges: Decide if you want all-wheel drive (“quattro”) or a specific fuel type indicated by “TFSI,” “TDI,” or “e-tron.”
• Research regional differences: Some models or badge designations may vary by country, especially for long-wheelbase or special models.

Why the naming convention matters for owners and enthusiasts

Audi’s model codes aren’t just a matter of tradition—they are tools for clear communication in a world of ever-increasing automotive complexity. For enthusiasts, understanding these distinctions fosters meaningful discussions about technology, history, and design. For owners, knowing what the badge means can help when reselling, registering, or servicing the car.

Learning to decode Audi’s model numbers offers a glimpse into the brand’s innovative thinking and shows how a single letter-number combination can convey a wealth of information.

Frequently asked questions about Audi model numbers

Many car shoppers and fans have recurring questions about this subject. Here are some of the most common:

• What does the “Q” stand for in Q5? “Q” represents Audi’s lineup of SUVs and crossovers.
• Why do some Audis have an “L” at the end? “L” designates a long-wheelbase version, generally targeted at luxury markets such as China.
• Is a higher model number always better? Not necessarily. Higher numbers indicate larger or more prestigious models, but not always higher quality or performance for every buyer’s needs.
• How do electric and hybrid models fit in? Audi uses “e-tron,” either as a suffix or a dedicated model, to indicate electric and plug-in hybrid technology.

The future of Audi model numbers

Audi’s system is likely to continues to evolve, especially as electrification expands. With electric vehicles becoming prominent in the lineup (such as the Q4 e-tron and Q8 e-tron), expect model codes to expand and adapt—potentially introducing new letters or number ranges. Automotive industry analysts predict more harmonized alphanumeric codes as electrification, automation, and digital features become central to every model.

Certain designations may disappear (such as “TDI” due to diesel phase-out) while new ones emerge for fuel cells, software, or advanced autonomy. As with other luxury brands, Audi’s focus remains on delivering memorable, meaningful models with names that help consumers understand what they’re getting.

Conclusion: Mastering the Audi code

Navigating the world of Audi model numbers is about more than learning a few letters and digits. It’s about understanding how Audi structures its offerings, caters to varied markets, and signals advances in technology, performance, and sustainability. By decoding Audi’s alphanumeric system, you gain a valuable tool to select the right car for your lifestyle or passion project—confident in what those badges and badges truly mean.

For car enthusiasts and first-time buyers alike, knowing the story behind Audi model numbers means being better informed, enjoying deeper conversations with experts, and embracing a key aspect of the Audi legacy.