Audi expects A3 sedan to give a strong footing in the Indian market

German carmaker Audi plans on further strengthening its hold in the Indian luxury car segment. The car maker bagged the top spot in terms of sales with over 10000 units being sold in the country last year. Terence Johnson, Vice-President, Overseas Sales, Audi AG, said, “We believe this market has tremendous potential for further growth of brand Audi. Reaffirming our commitment to the Indian market, we are bringing the Audi A3 Sedan - the next big Audi to India. We expect the Indian market to continue to grow and to contribute substantially to Audi's global sales.”

Johnson further added, “We sold 10,002 units in India last year and we believe this market has tremendous potential for further growth. We expect the Indian market to continue to grow and to contribute substantially to Audi’s global sales.” The A3 sedan from Audi is expected to compete with the fresh line of Mercedes Benz A-class and BMW 1-series that were recently showcased at the Auto Expo event. Price and specifications for the A3 have been kept under wrap for now, but it is anticipated that the car may find its way to the Indian market by mid 2014. Post an official announcement by the company, further details would be released.

Joe King, Audi India Head, said, “We will launch the Audi A3 sedan in India in the middle of this year. Being the most popular brand in India and winning in this market is an absolute priority for us. And so, I think getting it right in the compact luxury segment is important, and the A3 sedan brings just what is needed. The A3 sedan has the potential to dominate the segment; Audi A3 Sedan is a likely game-changer for the company in India and has the potential to be the largest selling luxury car in India.”

The German carmaker has also opened upto 11 new dealerships in the country last year to make their strong presence felt in the country. The company aims at doubling up its sales numbers as compared to the previous year. King further said, “We believe that the Indian market is unique and buyers here are more value driven and tend to choose cars that deliver better value. Ideally, the Audi A3 sedan would fit between the compact luxury hatchback and the entry luxury sedan segment.”