Well, we have been discussing the probability for ages now. After all, the success of the BMW X1 suggests that a small, well priced SUV is one of the most sought after items in the Indian premium car market. And well, since the X1 isn’t quite a looker, the Q3 makes an extremely strong case for India as a better alternative.
AutoCar India is reporting that Audi AG head of marketing and sales, Peter Schwarzenbauer has confirmed the launch of the car for India. Peter was talking with Autocar India at the Le mans 24 Hours race. “The Q3 will be good for the Indian market and we will bring this car to India next year,” he told the reporters from the leading auto monthly from India.
Engine options will include a 2.0 TFSI petrol and a 2.0-liter TDI diesel. The 2.0liter petrol is good for 208bhp, while the diesel produces 174bhp of power. Audi’s Quattro 4WD will come as an option and the engines will work with a seven-speed S-tronic transmission. The biggest selling Q3 for India should ideally be the FWD diesel variant. A manual transmission should also be made available for the price conscious Indian buyer.
The Q3 resembles the Cross Coupe Concept shown at the Shanghai Show in 2007, but is clearly identifiable as an Audi, and doesn’t feature any radically different styling cues. LED daytime running lights are presented as an option, not a standard feature.
There will be front wheel drive Q3 which will make an appearance later. The FWD car will be cheaper and will come with the option of a manual gearbox to reduce cost further.
The Q3 is 45kg lighter than the equivalent RWD BMW X1. Expect the car to arrive in India early 2012. Starting price should be somewhere in the region of Rs. 25 Lakh
