Audi, the jewel of the crown within Volkswagen group, shall bring out A1, a premier B-segment car for Indians. The smallest and the lowest bid hatchback from the Audi stable, unveiled in the just ended Geneva Motor Show in Switzerland, will debut in Europe August, 2010. It is expected to be priced around Rs 9.8 lakhs. Every major automaker is eyeing on the 11 per thousand car owners ratio in India that aspects huge scope for entry level cars and also, aspiring middle class people. A1 might take the end of December 2011, or the birth of 2012 January to arrive here.
A1 could be a major boost for the Audi in India, just like Toyota trying out their hands in Etios concept. Audi A1 has a small car sports profile matching BMW Mini and Alfa Romeo Milto. Not all the three variants, namely the 1.2 liter 1.4 liter petrol hearts and 1.6 diesel hearts shall fit into Indian Audi A1. But, state of the art features like Start-Stop system, ABS, air bags assures safety to the add the safety.
Audi also unveiled the electric variant, the A1 e-tron, at the Geneva show that boasts a top speed of 130 kmph taking a quick 10.2 seconds to reach 100 from a stand still.
Unlike Audi’s A4 and A6, A1 is a CBU (Completely Built Unit) inviting 110% tax levied by Government, which might be fateful to Audi, unless they assemble the units locally. Like the BMW and Benz, expanding the premier segment brand, Audi is likely to grab a wholesome pie on luxury Indian buyers.