Audi is pursuing ambitious plans for a technologically advanced, luxuriously equipped coupé-like saloon called the A9.
It’s conceived to sit at the very top of Audi’s line-up as a high-priced rival to the Mercedes-Benz CL and Porsche Panamera, as well as a forthcoming production version of the BMW GranCoupé concept, due in early 2012.

The new four-door forms the centrepiece of a new model programme that aims to provide Audi with an overtly sporting sister model to the third-generation A8 — a move the German car maker has already mirrored lower down in its line-up with the four-door A7 and seventh-generation A6.

“The project isn’t officially confirmed for production, but work is progressing on the business case, both at an accountancy and engineering level,” an Audi insider revealed. Adding further intrigue to the new car is news that Audi bosses are considering an aluminium spaceframe structure and key components of the MLB (Modularen Längsbaukasten, modular longitudinal architecture) driveline architecture earmarked for the A9 to provide a suitable basis for a production version of Lamborghini’s spectacular Estoque concept car.

The lightweight structure and the air-sprung chassis it supports are based on those already used by high-end A8s, which is assembled on its own dedicated production line at Audi’s Neckarsulm factory. By using a common platform architecture for all three cars, Audi hopes to reap added synergies — both in purchasing and production activities.