Earlier, the market perception for German cars was restricted to 2 major brands –Mercedes and BMW. But in the recent years, the Four Rings, especially the A6 and Q7, have captured the Indian fancy like no other brand. Addressing this spurt in demand, the company has lined up a fantastic plan for the next 2 years.
The start of the year we saw the launch of the iconic Ironman’s car- The Audi R8 in its V10 avatar. Audi-India already seen around 14 bookings for the mighty beast and now plans to bring the Spyder version as well
Then came February and Audi dropped another bombshell from its portfolio by bringing in the flagship saloon – A8. Coupled with gorgeous looks and gadgetry that seems to be made by Steve Jobs, this luxury car is sure to give a tough fight to market leader Mercedes S Class.
In March, Audi will bring a third engine option for the Q5, a 2.0 TDI diesel mill which will be priced at Rs 42 lakh, ex-showroom, Mumbai.
Come June, you will see the A7 sportsback hitting the Indian streets. It is undergoing testing right now in Mumbai. When the A7 hits the Indian streets, it will create a whole new segment for itself. It is expected in both the 3.0 TFSI as well as 3.0 TDI engine options and will be priced at round about Rs 65 to 70 lakhs.
In Diwali, you will see another major launch from Audi – The A6 Saloon. The old A6 did not find many buyers in the Indian market because of its timid street presence as compared to other rivals such as the flamboyant 5 Series and the exquisite E class.
However, Audi has learnt its lesson and designed a very eye catching new A6 with oodles of street presence. The company will offer three engine options starting from 2.8 TSI petrol and then moving to the 3.0 TFSI petrol and finally the 3.0 TDI quattro. Looking at the competition, the prices will be in the range of Rs 37-48 lakhs. The company also has plans to bring the S6 performance package.
Early 2012 will see the launch of the first of the X1 rivals - the baby SUV Q3. Audi’s Q3 will be the first challenger for BMW’s X1 because rival Mercedes’s GLC is still in a very nascent stage of its development and will only be ready by 2013.
Audi is also considering the RS5 coupe for India. Audi India MD Michael Perschke says that he hopes to sell 30 to 50 units of this grand tourer in India in its very first year. However, the company has not made up its mind and is looking for some feedback from the market.
So here is a little feedback: Just bring it! :)
