Audi Renames Performance Unit, Plans New Models

Audi AG is renaming its 33-year-old Quattro GmbH division Audi Sport GmbH to better reflect the group’s overall performance mandate and avoid confusion with the carmaker’s signature “quattro” all-wheel-drive technology.

The renamed unit plans to launch eight new models in the next 18 months, and grow its dealer presence from 370 showrooms to 600 locations by the end of 2017. Audi says the performance division has doubled its sales in the past five years.

Audi Sport’s current lineup consists of the RS 3 sedan, RS Q3, RS6 Avant, RS 7 Sportback, TT RS, R8 and S8 plus.

In addition to the development and production of performance cars, Audi Sport will oversee the carmaker’s customization efforts and customer racing program. The group will continue to be led by Stephan Winkelmann, who took charge of Audi Quattro in March following a stint at fellow Volkswagen Group company Lamborghini.