Barely days after the launch of the Audi R8 Spyder in India, Audi India have launched a new variant of their best selling SUV, the Audi Q5. The new variant gets a new engine option and that is the 2.0 Tdi. Audi India are also contemplating launching the Audi Q3 in India to compete with the likes of the BMW X1 and other entry level soft roaders. This 2.0 liter diesel variant is offered with the company’s legendary Quattro system. The new 2.0 liter variant brings in 170 Bhp of peak power and torque of 35.7 kgm to the equation. Transmission duties are handled by a S-tronic 7 speed gearbox. As of now, the Audi Q5 competes with the Volvo XC60, BMW X3 and the Land Rover Freelander 2 in India. Interiors haven’t undergone any change and visually the 2.0 liter Tdi would be similar to the other Q5s now in India.
Head – Audi India, Michael Perschke said that the entry level 2.0 liter diesel motor would complement the 2.0 liter TFSI engine and also the 3.0 liter TDi engine. He also said that along with improved handling, the new variant would also be very powerful and at the same time fuel efficient as well. The new variant is however the CKD route and hence is priced competitively at Rs 39 lakhs, ex-show room, Mumbai. Michael Perschke was also of the view that the Indian customers demand exclusivity and hence Audi India is ready to cater to all the needs of a customer. He also emphasized that for this very reason, the company is also expanding their dealer network in India. There would be dealerships coming up soon in South Mumbai, Surat, West Delhi, Indore, Coimbatore and Lucknow. Audi India intend to be on the top of the luxury market here by 2015 and in this quest are introducing newer models in their lineup.
