My first proper car crush was the TT, with its sleek curves and that cheeky Bauhaus vibe. Later, the R8 stole my heart with its supercar swagger. So, when Audi unveiled the Concept C at the 2025 IAA Mobility show in Munich, I was practically bouncing. This electric two-seater isn’t a TT reboot or an R8 sequel—it’s something entirely new, and it’s got me daydreaming about blasting down a coastal road, roof down, with the wind in my hair. Let’s dive into why the Concept C is Audi’s boldest move yet.
Not a TT or R8, But Something In-Between
The rumor mill went wild when the Concept C dropped, with folks calling it the next TT or a reborn R8. Audi’s quick to shut that down: this car’s carving its own path, slotting right between the TT’s $60,000 price tag and the R8’s $160,000 swagger. Picture a sleek, low-slung roadster—178 inches long, 77.6 inches wide, and just 50.3 inches tall—that’s bigger than the TT but not quite R8 territory. It’s got mid-engine proportions, a nod to the 1936 Auto Union Type C racer, and a hint of the 2000 Rosemeyer concept’s futuristic flair. This isn’t a nostalgia trip, though—it’s Audi saying, “We’re back, and we’re doing things our way.”
Radical Simplicity: A New Design Era
Audi’s calling the Concept C’s look “radical simplicity,” and I’m all about it. Under new design boss Massimo Frascella, who shaped the iconic Range Rover, Audi’s ditching the oversized hexagonal grilles for a sleek, vertical frame that screams confidence. The front’s got a narrow grille, flanked by quad-element LED lights that echo Audi’s four rings, while the rear sports slim taillights and a diffuser that gives it a proper racecar vibe. The retractable hardtop—a first for Audi—folds away to turn this coupe into a targa-style roadster, perfect for a sunny drive through the Amalfi Coast.
The whole car feels like it’s been carved from a single block of aluminum, with clean lines and no fake exhaust nonsense. Those 21-inch wheels, inspired by the original TT’s six-spoke rims, add just the right touch of retro cool. It’s not just a pretty face, either—the design’s built to work across Audi’s lineup, from SUVs to sedans, and it’s flexible enough for electric, hybrid, or even combustion engines down the line.
An Interior That’s Pure Bliss
Step inside, and the Concept C feels like a minimalist’s dream. The dashboard’s a single, sleek beam with a 10.4-inch touchscreen that tucks away when you don’t need it—because who wants a tablet in their face all the time? The seats are wrapped in two-tone wool twill, a leather-free nod to sustainability that’s still plush and breathable. Every switch and knob gives that satisfying “Audi click,” a tactile throwback to the old MMI dials that makes you feel in control. The steering wheel’s a proper circle, not some flat-bottomed cliche, and it’s got metal badges that scream quality. It’s the kind of cabin that makes you want to take the long way home, just to soak it all in.
Electric Power, Porsche DNA
Under the hood—well, under the floor—the Concept C is all-electric, built on a platform likely shared with the upcoming Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman EVs. Its 800-volt architecture promises lightning-fast charging, and the battery’s mounted behind the seats for that mid-engine balance, keeping the car low and nimble. You can get it with rear-wheel drive for purist fun or dual motors for quattro grip, and Audi’s even teasing synthetic engine sounds and simulated gear shifts to keep things spicy. While power and range numbers are still under wraps, expect over 300 miles of range and performance that’ll make your heart race.
This shared Porsche platform is a smart move—spreading costs across the Volkswagen Group means Audi can go big on this niche sports car without breaking the bank. And with Audi’s Formula 1 entry in 2026, the Concept C’s timing feels like a power flex, showing off the brand’s performance chops.
Pricing and Rivals: A Sweet Spot
When the Concept C hits showrooms in 2027, it’ll likely land around $90,000-$100,000, splitting the difference between the TT and R8. That puts it up against the electric Porsche 718, Polestar 6, and MG Cyberster, but Audi’s banking on its blend of style, tech, and heritage to stand out. The production model’s already 87% done, so expect minimal changes—think real door handles and road-ready tweaks, not a full redesign. This isn’t some pie-in-the-sky concept; it’s a car you’ll actually drive.
Why the Concept C Matters
Audi’s been a bit quiet since the TT and R8 bowed out, leaving fans like me craving something to fill the void. The Concept C isn’t just a car—it’s a statement. It’s Audi saying, “We’re still the design-forward brand you fell in love with, and we’re not afraid to take risks.” With its nod to the Auto Union Type C and TT, plus a futuristic edge, it’s got the soul of a classic and the tech of tomorrow. Whether you’re a TT stan or an R8 dreamer, this car’s got something for you.
The Road Ahead
Set to be built at Audi’s Böllinger Höfe facility, the Concept C’s production version will hit the U.S. and global markets in 2027, and I’m already counting the days. It’s not a TT or R8 replacement, but it’s got the heart and hustle to carry Audi’s sports car legacy forward. Will they call it an E-Tron? Maybe revive the TT badge? Audi’s keeping quiet, but I’m betting it’ll get a name as bold as its looks. Either way, this is the kind of car that’ll make you want to hit the open road, top down, and just keep driving.
Call to Action
Can’t get enough of the Audi Concept C? Follow the latest at Audi and check out our guides on the Porsche 718 EV and Audi’s sports car history. Are you hyped for this electric roadster, or holding out for a gas-powered R8? Drop your thoughts in the comments—I wanna hear ‘em!
Source- media.audiusa.com
