Volkswagen’s list of under-threat models includes high-volume and surprisingly new models

Restructuring plans for the Volkswagen Group have been further revealed, with a list of underperforming vehicles that could be axed leaked by a German publication.

Adding weight to reports that Volkswagen could be preparing to trim its model range by half across its portfolio of brands, including models from Audi, Cupra, Skoda, and Volkswagen itself, Germany’s Bild magazine has reportedly uncovered the list of under-threat models.

The list addresses a number of models that the Volkswagen Group produces that compete with each other in the same vehicle segments. Surprisingly, a number of all-new vehicles appear to be under threat of axing.

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To rationalise production and focus on volume models, VW has nominated models like the ‘coupe’ versions of SUVs, including the Audi Q5 Sportback (main) and Q6 e-tron Sportback, along with the Cayenne Coupe.

For Audi, those models also join the compact A1 hatch and Q2 compact SUV (below), which have already reached the end of production with no successors planned.

Porsche is also likely to abandon plans for a second-generation Taycan EV, and a new petrol-powered version of the 718 Cayman and Boxster. The latter model has reportedly been developed from Porsche’s original EV-only plans for the 718, in an attempt to bolster numbers in the wake of slowing EV sales.

Other less-surprising entries on the list include the current Volkswagen Jetta sedan, in production for eight years already, and the Taos small SUV, sold in North America since 2020 and in China since 2018.

One of Skoda’s key models for Europe, the Fabia city hatch, is also facing termination, reducing internal competition with other VW Group light cars like the Volkswagen Polo and Seat Ibiza.

Cupra’s all-new Raval compact EV, based on the Volkswagen ID. Polo EV, has also been named, although Motor1 reports its appearance rules it out for renewal as a second generation, with the just-announced first-gen model scheduled to reach showrooms as originally intended.

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While this latest report highlights complete model lines targeted as the company looks to reduce overheads, it makes no mention of a reported rationalisation of variants, which could see model ranges pared back and the number of powertrain options and trim levels reduced to only the most popular versions.

High-margin products from Volkswagen-owned Bentley and Lamborghini have also escaped scrutiny, although it’s possible adjustments to their respective product lines may follow later.

Volkswagen has yet to confirm changes to its production schedule, but as the company accelerates restructuring efforts – including speculated factory closures and workforce lay-offs – a clearer picture of the company’s future plans is likely to be revealed.