Audi officially announced its upcoming flagship model, the Grandsphere, signaling a bold brand strategy evolution. Positioned as the spiritual successor to the A8, the Grandsphere is scheduled for release in 2027 and will be available as a premium sedan with electric and hybrid powertrains. With this model, Audi is no longer content with competing solely with BMW and Mercedes-Benz—it’s now setting its sights on rivals like Porsche and Maybach.
The Grandsphere is designed to be more than a luxury sedan. Its extended rear overhang and dual-level roofline create a streamlined, aerodynamic look. The exterior features a seamless unibody construction with no visible panel gaps. These styling cues enhance appearance and reflect Audi’s goal of setting new standards in premium automotive design.
Imposing Dimensions and Artistic Design: Charting the Course for Audi’s Future
The Grandsphere stands out with its imposing dimensions. It is 5,350 mm (210.6 inches) long and has a wheelbase of 3,190 mm (125.6 inches). These figures outsize even the Mercedes S-Class, giving it the longest wheelbase among flagship sedans—an advantage when maximizing interior space and delivering a premium in-cabin experience. The roofline flows smoothly toward the rear, and the sharp, angular taillights are reminiscent of those first introduced on the A6.
The exterior styling breaks from current Audi models. The signature single-frame grille has been digitized and now functions purely as a visual accent. The body is sculpted with clean, uninterrupted surfaces inspired by Bauhaus design principles, highlighting Audi’s commitment to craftsmanship and simplicity. Rather than just a car, the Grandsphere is intended as a moving design.
The interior evokes the feel of a first-class airline suite. The dashboard features projection-based displays and responsive touch panels. When autonomous mode is engaged, the steering wheel and pedals retract seamlessly, transforming the front seating area into a lounge-like space. This interior concept goes beyond luxury amenities, offering a fresh perspective on how space inside a car can be used.
Cutting-Edge Technology: Fruits of the Audi-Porsche Partnership
The Grandsphere is built on the PPE platform, which Audi and Porsche jointly developed. This platform supports a dual-motor setup that delivers up to 711 horsepower. Paired with a 120 kWh battery, the vehicle can achieve a WLTP-rated range of up to 750 km (466 miles). In addition to the fully electric version, a hybrid model is also in development, likely including a high-performance plug-in hybrid (PHEV) configuration.
Thanks to its 800V electrical architecture, the Grandsphere supports ultra-fast charging. A quick 10-minute charge can add more than 300 km (186 miles) of driving range. Audi plans to roll out this fast-charging tech across its entire electrified portfolio in the coming years. The goal is not just to produce another electric car, but to redefine what a flagship luxury sedan should be in the EV era.
Pricing is expected to start well over 125,000 USD, placing it in the same league as top-tier Mercedes S-Class variants and the Porsche Panamera GTS. Audi emphasized that the production version closely resembles the concept, underscoring its intent to deliver a unified design, technology, and brand identity vision.
