Audi Q3 S set for its Indian launch

The bandwagon of German luxury car makers is currently engaged in their own private battle in the Indian car market. Mercedes-Benz, holding true to its 'Year of Offensive' plan, has introduced a number of models this year, such as A-Class as well as B-Class premium hatchbacks, GL-Class Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) and E63 AMG. Following the league, Audi is planning to introduce a low cost version of the Q3 Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV), which will be known as Q3 S. The company has already launched RS5 Coupe and S6 in 2013. it must be noted that launching the Q3 S could be an important move in Audi's pursuit of outdoing its closest rivals BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

If one was to put these launches into perspective, a similar trend is likely to be the resultant conclusion. Companies like BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi, known for selling performance oriented luxury cars, have realised the significance of targeting price sensitive Indian buyers. It is no hidden fact that the number of price sensitive buyers is much higher than others. Also, in times when fuel cost is high and there is widespread price rise, customers are reluctant to shell out a huge sum of money. The prospect of owning a Mercedes-Benz, BMW or Audi at a low price is quite lucrative and is bound to draw the attention of buyers.

Sources have claimed that the Audi Q3 S, in all probability, will be brought to India as a Completely Knocked Down (CKD) unit. After being brought here as a CKD, it is expected to be assembled at Audi's facility at Aurangabad. Speculations have emerged, saying that the Audi Q3 S is going to be priced around Rs. 25 lakh (ex-showroom). Industry experts feel that the yet to be launched Audi Q3 S will compete with the likes of Mercedes-Benz A-Class and the BMW 1 Series.

In order to reduce cost of the vehicle, Audi has considerable reduced a number of premium features from the Q3 S. The low cost variant of the Q3 SUV will be a front-wheel drive, which automatically implies that it misses out on Audi's Quattro system. Apart from this, the Q3 S will also miss the daytime running LED lamps, another trademark from Audi. Reports suggest that the Audi Q3 S is going to be powered by a 2.0-litre diesel powertrain that will be mated to a 6-speed manual transmission system. The car is expected to churn out a maximum power of around 140 bhp. Other features likely to be present in the Q3 S include climate control, MMI with Bluetooth connectivity, leather seats and voice dialogue system.