Volkswagen, Audi plan sport-utes.

["Rusty A. Schlacke" <oxide@worldnet.att.net>]

This was in the July 21, 1997, issue of Automotive News.  FYI.

Rusty A. Schlacke
Cedar Rapids, IA
'95 A6 quattro

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FRANKFURT -- Volkswagen and Audi each plan to offer a sport-utility
early in the next decade.  Porsche may use the Volkswagen vehicle for
its own off-roader.
	Volkswagen AG did not announce marketing plans for the VW and Audi
models, and did not say if they will be sold in North America, the
world's largest market for sport-utilities.
	VW's sport-utility is expected to be based on the Golf and compete in a
growing class of small 4x4s led by the Toyota RAV4.
	The off-roader will be Volkswagen's second try in the segment after its
unsuccessful launch of the 4x4 Golf Country in the 1980's.  The Country
was a Golf derivative, with increased ground clearance and 4x4 trim. 
The new sport-utility would have a distinct exterior design.
	VW spokesman Christof Alder said details of the sport-utility project
are not decided.  But, like the RAV4, it is expected to be targeted at
urban drivers, and to offer a high level of ride comfort.
	Aider confirmed that VW is in talks with Porsche about sharing the
platform.
	Porsche wants to add a sport-utility.  It discussed the venture with
the Big 3 in the United States, and it nearly had a deal with
Daimler-Benz to base a sport-utility on the U.S.-Built Mercedes M class.
	Since then Porsche has been talking to other potential partners, and
has considered developing one for itself.
	Audi officials will make the larger Audi A6 Avant the basis of a
sport-utility.  The four-wheel drive A6 Avant will debut at the Bologna
auto show in December.  Timing for the new sport-utility is uncertain.