On September 3, 2025, Audi unveiled the Audi C Concept Coupe, which shows the direction of its next-generation sports car. This concept car is not just a design study, but is positioned as a concrete preview of the actual car scheduled for sale in 2027, and is an important model symbolizing the revival of Audi’s sports cars.
What is the Audi Concept C Roadster? Basic Overview
Audi C Concept Coupe
A hardtop roadster that embodies a new design philosophy
The Concept C Roadster is a model that revives the spirit of the legendary Auto Union Type C racer in the modern era. It introduces the Audi brand’s new design language and adopts innovative styling that sets it apart from conventional Audis.
Audi C Concept Coupe
The path to commercialization is clear
The biggest feature of this concept car is that it is confirmed to be commercially available in 2027. It will be produced at the Böllinger Höfe plant in Germany and will be released as a mass-produced model based on the newly designed Porsche 718 Boxster/Cayman duo.
Innovation in exterior design: the face of Audi for the new era
Audi C Concept Coupe
A new brand identity expressed through a vertical grille
The most notable feature is the new Audi brand face, featuring a portrait-oriented rectangular grille . This represents a bold departure from traditional Audi design and will be a key element in defining the visual identity of future Audi models.
Audi C Concept Coupe
Aerodynamics that pursue functional beauty
Angular accents on either side of the grille create a functional design that channels air into vertical air curtains , along which lie the four slim headlights, a new design element that “defines the visual identity of Audi, day and night.”
Audi C Concept Coupe
Body proportions: Between the TT and R8
The body measures 4,521mm long, 1,981mm wide, 1,278mm high , and has a 2,568mm wheelbase, making it larger than the current TT and adopting a wide and low style similar to the R8. Large 21-inch aluminum wheels and aerodynamic parts with streamlining effects create a sporty appearance.
Innovative retractable hardtop system
Audi C Concept Coupe
Audi’s first hardtop roadster
The highlight of the Concept C Roadster is the first retractable hardtop in the history of Audi roadsters . This system combines the open-air feel of a convertible with the safety and styling of a coupe.
Porsche 911 Targa-style control system
The roof is divided into two sections, with a rear hatch that opens to reveal a storage compartment and then slides back to close the hatch, a mechanism similar to that of the Porsche 911 Targa , suggesting that the two cars share similar design philosophies.
Interior design: A minimalist approach
Audi C Concept Coupe
Improved concentration through the “ShyTech” concept
The interior adopts a “shy tech” approach , hiding technical elements when not required for driving, helping to improve driver concentration. The car features a minimalist finish reminiscent of industrial design.
Retractable infotainment system
Audi C Concept Coupe
The central 10.4-inch infotainment system folds away when not in use , creating a cleaner interior space. Digital climate control, anodized aluminum accents, and indirect ambient lighting contribute to a premium interior ambience.
Commitment to sustainable materials
Audi C Concept Coupe
By using a stylish cloth material instead of leather , we have achieved both environmental friendliness and a new texture.
The potential of next-generation EV powertrains
Supports ultra-fast charging with an 800V system
The Concept C Roadster is designed as a 100% electric vehicle and will be compatible with ultra-fast charging via an 800V system. It weighs approximately 1,720 kg, making it relatively light for an EV.
Both RWD and AWD are available
The commercial version will be available in both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (AWD) to meet a variety of customer needs.
Future Trend: Rear Windowless Design
Rear visibility secured by camera
The rear window has been eliminated and a camera system has been installed to ensure rear visibility, a design trend also seen in the Ferrari 812 Competizione and Jaguar’s new generation EV models.
Combining functionality and design
The rear end is relatively simple, featuring a wide diffuser and four-bulb LED taillights.
A concrete roadmap to commercialization
Mass production is set to begin in 2027
Audi has stated that the Concept C Roadster is a “concrete preview of the production vehicle” and has announced that production will begin in 2027 at the Böllinger Höfe plant.
Impact on other models
The concept’s exterior and interior design will also influence other production Audi models, including the upcoming introduction of new performance models such as the Audi S6 and RS6 Avant in 2026.
The revival of Audi sports cars: What it means for the industry
Synergy through technology sharing with Porsche
By basing the car on the newly designed Porsche 718 platform, technology sharing within the Volkswagen Group will increase, and developments that are beneficial to both brands are expected.
Revitalizing the premium EV sports car market
Audi’s return to sports cars means increased competition in the premium EV sports car market , with the likes of the Tesla Roadster and Porsche Taycan on the way, leading to more attractive options for consumers.
Summary: Audi’s vision of the future of electric sports cars
The Audi Concept C Roadster is more than just a concept car; it is a significant preview of the next-generation sports car that is confirmed to be on the market in 2027. The combination of an innovative design language, a practical retractable hardtop system, and a next-generation EV powertrain clearly indicates the new direction of the Audi brand.
The success of this model will not only contribute to the revival of Audi sports cars, but also to the development of the entire premium EV market . With just two years until its commercial launch in 2027, this will likely be an important milestone that will attract attention not only from Audi fans but also from sports car enthusiasts in general.
