Audi Q3 S gets off to a flying start, 125 bookings on launch day

Mumbai, August 20, 2013: Audi India has announced that it has already received 125 bookings for the Audi Q3 S edition launched yesterday. The company claims that this sets a new benchmark and that the online booking process has contributed to this strong number by allowing car buyers across the country the opportunity to book the SUV online.

“We are not surprised with the response that we have received. Audi has been a leader in the Indian luxury SUV segment. This response further reinforces our leadership position in this segment. We hope to expand our customer base with this new product,” said Michael Perschke, head, Audi India.

The Q3 S edition was launched at Audi Delhi Central, the company’s third showroom in New Delhi. It is priced at Rs 24.99 lakh (ex-showroom, New Delhi), which makes it the most affordable luxury SUV in India.

Mercedes-Benz India launched the A-class at the end of May and claimed 400 bookings in 10 days. The company is now seeking an increase in the allocation of compact luxury cars, the A-class and B-class, from its parent plant for the Indian market to meet the high demand for the two cars. The B-class, in petrol guise, has sold over 500 units since its launch in September 2012. As regards local assembly of the two cars, the company stated that it will only make that decision in 2014.

The coming days will see a couple of luxury segment launches including the GL-class SUV that will be made from CKD kits at Mercedes’ Chakan plant and the BMW 1 series on September 3.

While Audi India sold 705 units in July, Mercedes-Benz India sold 810 units. BMW India figures have not been revealed.

BRIAN DE SOUZA