Audi plans to retire the stylish A7 and S7 fastbacks with the 2026 model year. The RS7 is still going around the sun, though. Audi states that the upcoming gas-powered A6 will replace both the current A6 and A7 models. As soon as it came out, we had to add nameplates that didn’t make it into the 2026 model year to the group’s tombstone. This reflects the situation at present. Audi announced that the A7 and S7, its last Sportback offerings, will end production after 2025, while the 621-hp RS7 is set to remain in production at least until 2026. The A7, S7, and high-performance RS7 belong to Audi’s second-generation liftback sedans, all built on the A6 platform. These stylish five-door vehicles offer a sleeker design and increased trunk space, though this comes at the expense of some rear passenger room. Despite these changes, they share powertrains, electronics, and much of the interior with the three-door A6. Audi says that the new gasoline-powered A6 will replace the A7 and S7. The 2026 Audi A6 is known for its design, which resembles a blend of the A6 and the A7, although it won’t be sold under the Sportback name. Not to hold our breath, but there is no sign of when the types that aren’t RS will come back. The RS7 may be produced for another year before an even more powerful RS6 model is introduced. The RS6 car hasn’t been sold in the US for a few generations, but Audi will bring it back in 2026 as an Avant station wagon. Things do change, though. This move is similar to what the company did with the A4 and A5 models, although not identical in detail. With the A5 and S5 “sedans” carrying on the fastback tradition, the A4 name and design are no longer available. This is done to streamline the lineup and make room for electric versions that are shared with most Audis that run on gasoline. We also lost our A4 Allroad station wagon in the process. For the 2025 model year, Audi offered two A5s, which made things even more complicated. The new A5 and S5, which are scheduled to be released in 2025, have been placed on dealer lots alongside the existing A5 and S5 Sportbacks that are currently being sold. One positive aspect is that Audi stores are expected to be less busy in 2026, as models of similar sizes and shapes will not be competing with each other as intensely.
