While Mercedes-Benz and BMW are betting on their premium hatchbacks, Audi has different plans to capture the major chunk of luxury car segment in the growing Indian auto market. The German luxury carmaker already has A1 premium hatch in the international market, but the company is aiming to launch the A3 compact premium sedan in India. Like Mercedes opened a new segment with A-Class, Audi will start a new segment with its A3.
The new Audi A3 has been spotted several times in India during its test rounds, and it is likely to hit the Indian shores in 2014. We expect that the company could introduce the vehicle at the 2014 Indian Auto Expo, where its rival will also present their vehicles. According to some media reports, Mercedes-Benz will unveil its all-new GLA crossover and BMW could display its i3 and i8 at the Expo.
Auto experts believe that Audi A3 suits the taste of Indian buyers, and is expected to become one of the best selling premium cars in the country. Internationally, the vehicle is loaded with several features including Audi's Drive Select system, two zone climate control, new multi-media infotainment and a multi-functional steering. To make it more price effective, Audi may also bring the stripped down version of A3, like Audi Q3 Sport.
Audi A3 will be made available in both petrol and diesel version. The petrol vehicle will be powered by 1.4-litre TFSI engine that churns out 140PS, or the company might also bring the 1.8-litre TFSI engine that develops 180PS. The diesel A3 will get 1.8-litre and 2.0-litre diesel engine. In international markets, the premium sedan is also available with 105PS, 1.6L TDi engine that also powers the Vento, but it is early to comment on the same whether it will come to India or not.
Source : CarDekho - Audi Q3 - Audi may unveil A3 sedan in 2014 Indian Auto Expo