Audi Prologue gives peek at future A6, A7 and A8 models (pictures)

At a preview event before the Los Angeles Auto Show, Audi unveiled its new concept in the Hollywood Hills.

The concept, appropriately named Prologue, shows off an entirely new design direction for Audi.

The Prologue concept also served to debut Marc Lichte, Audi's new Head of Design who is leading this new design effort.

The Prologue showcases a new look for Audi's larger cars, which include the A6, A7 and A8.

The grille makes up one of the most notable changes. Although likely exaggerated for this concept car, it shows a larger, vertical design.

This concept shows off a pillarless side graphic for the cabin, but that element may not survive into production, as it could compromise rollover safety.

The Prologue shows off prominent rear fenders, similar to what Audi showed off with its Quattro Sport concept at the 2013 Frankfurt auto show.

Audi specifies a 4-liter turbocharged engine for the Prologue, making 605 horsepower. All four wheels get power through the Quattro all-wheel-drive system, and the car uses all-wheel steering.

Audi has been developing LED headlight technology, with active arrays that turn into corners.

The fuel filler hatch is hidden on the rear pillar.

The back glass and trunk design look the most controversial. Audi's Lichte points out that it is a functional design, allowing easy access to the trunk.

For this concept, Audi uses four bucket seats, limiting the passenger capacity but increasing comfort for all occupants.

The interior design is even more interesting than the exterior. As in the new TT, Audi does away with a central LCD, instead placing screens strategically around the dashboard. The driver gets a robust 3D instrument cluster showing speed, tachometer, navigation and other infotainment features.

An innovative touchscreen sits in front of the shifter, allowing the driver to choose infotainment features.

Many of these interior elements could find their way into production Audi models.

The front passenger gets a dedicated display, which could be used for entertainment or helping the driver set destinations.