2003 Audi Pikes Peak Concept - Stratospheric Heights at 500 Horsepower
While Audi's marketing slogan states "never follow" the German company can hardly do anything except if it finally chooses to enter the SUV market so late in the game. The new Pikes Peak quattro concept, introduced in January at the Detroit Auto Show, heavily hints at the direction the Ingolstadt brand may take when their sport utility arrives.
My first impression of the Pikes Peak quattro was, "it's an acquired taste." But that remark may only serve to condemn me as one who judges by looks alone. To truly appreciate the natural beauty of Audi's new luxury SUV concept, it must be explored beyond the flashy "Polar Silver" metallic paint, into the uncharted depths of its powerful V8 engine, trekked throughout its lush leather interior and finally made to set up camp in the front seat.
All SUV phraseology aside, the Pikes Peak was "designed by inspiration" and modeled in spirit at least around the torturous 4,300 meter (14,110 ft) high Rocky Mountain hill climb course conquered many times by the quad ring brand. While attractive the new concept may not be as breathtaking as the mountainous region it is named after, but still there are certainly features that drop the jaw.
First of all an Audi SUV conceptually is a no-brainer if ever there was one. The company that pioneered all-wheel drive coupes, sedans and wagons, pardon me, Avants, is a natural for such a vehicle. The new 4+2-seat concept demonstrates Audi's continual evolution as a technology leader, fusing together spacious practicality and legendary Audi performance.