Audi has been pretty quiet on the sports car front since the TT’s departure in 2023 and the R8’s pending exit, but the Concept C changes that conversation entirely. This electric two-seater roadster is a concrete preview of what’s hitting showrooms in 2027, and it might be the most stunning model the automaker has come out with in decades.
Vertical Presence, Horizontal Impact
The first thing that hits you about the Concept C is how it completely reimagines Audi’s face. Gone is the wide hexagonal grille that’s defined the brand for years, replaced by a tall, narrow vertical frame inspired by both the 1936 Auto Union Type C and the third-generation A6. It’s a bold move that could have gone wrong, but instead creates an imposing presence that’s distinctly Audi without feeling retro.
That vertical element anchors the entire design philosophy Audi calls “radical simplicity.” The concept measures 178′ long and 77.6″ wide — bigger than both the original TT and the outgoing R8 — but the clean lines and restrained surfacing keep it from feeling bloated. The Titanium paint finish adds to the technical elegance, evoking the precision-engineered material it’s named after.
Retractable Hardtop Done Right
The star feature is undoubtedly the electrically retractable hardtop — a first for any Audi. Unlike traditional soft-top convertibles, this two-piece system maintains the coupe’s monolithic silhouette while still delivering open-air motoring. The mechanism appears similar to Porsche’s Targa system, which isn’t surprising given the Concept C will likely share platform DNA with the upcoming electric 718.
Interior Architecture
Step inside and the minimalist philosophy continues. The cabin strips away distractions while maintaining tactile quality — every control promises the signature “Audi click” that made the old MMI rotary controller so satisfying. The 10.4-inch center display can fold completely out of sight, leaving just essential controls and that perfectly round steering wheel. The material choices are also notable, with wool upholstery instead of leather, anodized aluminum controls, and indirect ambient lighting.
Platform Strategy
While Audi keeps powertrain details close to the vest, the rear-wheel-drive setup and expected Porsche 718 platform sharing point to serious performance potential. All-wheel-drive variants seem inevitable, and with production slated for the Böllinger Höfe plant in 2027, this isn’t vaporware.
The timing couldn’t be better. With the TT gone and R8’s days numbered, Audi needs a halo car that can capture attention while signaling the brand’s electric future.
Spec Sheet
Model: Audi Concept C
Year: 2025 concept, 2027 production
Layout: Rear-wheel drive electric (AWD likely)
Body Style: Two-seat roadster with retractable hardtop
Length: 178″
Width: 77.6″
Wheelbase: 101.1″
Wheels: 21-inch forged
Display: 10.4-inch retractable touchscreen
Pricing & Availability
Production begins in 2027 at Audi’s Böllinger Höfe facility, with pricing expected to split the difference between the departed TT and R8 — likely landing around the six-figure mark. The concept will appear at IAA Munich following its Milan debut, offering the clearest preview yet of Audi’s electric sports car future.
Recap
Audi Concept C Roadster
The Audi Concept C is an electric two-seat roadster that previews a 2027 production model, featuring a radical design overhaul with a vertical grille and retractable hardtop that aims to fill the void left by the discontinued TT and outgoing R8.
