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Drive Audi’s new A4 at Rs 27.3 lakh

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Michael Perschke, head of Audi India, poses with the new A4 at its launch in Mumbai.
Michael Perschke, head of Audi India, poses with the new A4 at its launch in Mumbai.

Audi, the premium automobile brand of the Volkswagen Group, on Thursday launched the next-generation A4 model at a starting price of Rs 27.3 lakh.

The vehicle promises an improved fuel economy of up to 10% compared to its predecessor, and is also cheaper by up to Rs 70,000.

While the A4 petrol version boasts of a fuel efficiency of 15.6 km per litre, the diesel version is a step ahead with 16.55 km per litre, both very attractive figures for a car in this segment.

The launch comes in the wake of Audi overtaking Mercedes-Benz to become the No. 2 luxury automobile brand in the Indian market.

According to reports, Audi overtook Mercedes-Benz in the first quarter of 2012, selling 2,269 unites compared with Merc’s 2,130. BMW, with 2,369 units remains in the lead.

Among other features, the new A4 claims to have the longest wheel-base in its segment, and also the largest leg room for rear passengers.

“The new Audi A4 with its progressive design, efficient driving dynamics and class defining interiors will take the driving experience to a new paradigm for all our customers. The young and sleek looks will appeal to the younger generation who have arrived in life and are looking to affirm their status and positions among their peers,” Audi India head Michael Perschke said. “The engines with their superior technology will give better fuel efficiencies while the new and improved lines and interiors will certainly turn heads and add to the comfort and luxury that one expects from Audi. The outstanding sales performance in the first quarter of 2012 of its predecessor encouraged us to pre-pone the launch of the new Audi A4.”

The new A4 is also the first Audi that offers the fully integrated Audi Car Life product, which combines financing, service plan, insurance and extended warranty.

The company also plans to expand its dealerships from 18 centres now to 25 by the end of 2012.

Audi also plans to increase capacity at its Aurangabad plant in Maharashtra by 50 per cent, Perschke added.