Audi has managed to acquire the “Q2” and “Q4” trademarks from Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA). With this, the German automaker has finally been able to secure a full range of its SUV designations, from Q1 to Q9.
In the past, FCA had reserved its Q2 name for its limited-slip differential technology and the Q4 for its all-wheel drive system, as featured on the Maserati Ghibli and Quattroporte models.
According to Autoblog, Audi CEO Rupert Stadler confirmed the news at the recent North American International Auto Show (NAIAS 2016). The arrangement is said to have involved a direct swap of trademarks between the two companies.
“We promised each other we wouldn’t disclose what it cost, but it was not something they (FCA) were willing to sell. We tried to get it years ago, and they said “no, never,” but there is never “never” in business. This year, I went back to them with a proposal and we talked, and there were some negotiations and then we agreed to it,” he concluded.
While Audi gained its Q2 and Q4 monikers, it is believed that FCA had also gained something of equal value in return. This is believed to be a trademark belonging to the Volkswagen Group, but no further details have been revealed just yet.
The Audi Q2, pictured here, is already in the works and reportedly, will make a debut this year. The five-door compact crossover SUV will be based on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB architecture, and will rival models like the MINI Countryman.
The yet-to-be-seen Audi Q4 will effectively become a coupe-like version of the Q3 – a model that would have little competition for now, with BMW’s X2 still in the works and there being no news of a two-door, sloping roof Mercedes-Benz GLA Coupe for now.
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Chris Aaron
With an equal passion for fast cars and everyday workhorses, Chris Aaron maintains a passion for European makes, Formula 1, playing the electric guitar and spending endless hours on the PlayStation - first-person shooters and the Gran Turismo franchise are his favourites. He also finds it strange to have written this in the third person.
