The Germany-based luxury car manufacturer has decided to stop the sale of two super-premium models, namely the Audi A8 L and RS5 Sportback, in the Indian arena. Make a visit to the Audi India website today, and you will find that both of these cars have disappeared from the current list. It makes a bold statement for the brand in the manner it chooses to enter the new Indian market with a refocused strategy.
The Decision to Discontinue These Models-Main Reasons
The principal reason for the decision is the overall strategy of Audi to lessen its range in India and focus on better-selling models. From now on, instead of concentrating on this non-limited motley of vehicles, Audi seems to be turning its attention to the all-powerful popular markets in the SUV segments. The models actually being considered the sales of Audi would be those which have affected sales now in the very large extent-Q5, Q7, and Q8, but as we have more models under one brand to play with in one particular category, selling becomes even easier.
Another thing is about India-the luxury car segment is a trap;p it’s cut-throat competition. Mercedes and BMW try to fight for the largest chunk of the Indian market with their very time-tested products. The two expensive ones-the A8 L and RS5 Sportback were unheard in sales numbers comparatively.
A8 L and RS5 Sportback: The Legacy
Both A8 L and RS5 sportback turned out to be among the flagship models of Audi in India, with each catering to a different class of buyers.
Audi A8 L: This most lavish sedan was well-known for its splendid interiors, high-end technology, and extremely powerful performance. Wherever you’d demand utmost comfort, all the most powerful features, and smooth driving, the A8 L would be your car. It was usually known as the rival of Audi to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and the BMW 7-Series, but it didn’t manage to make a strong mark in the luxury-car segment in India.
Audi RS5 Sportback: This sporty couple was made for people who loved power. As the name suggests, the RS5 Sportback had an engine with the power of a freight train; an animated, alluring design; and a thrilling driving experience. But fewer people are opting for such performance sedans these days as an increasing number of customers prefer an SUV, hence low demand.
The Rise of SUVs in India
Now, this defines yet another change in the Indian automobile arena. The crème de la crème of Indian buyers, which make up the elite of the luxury category, have all switched to accepting SUVs as their prime choice. High ground clearance, ample space in the cabin, and sheer road presence turns an SUV into a darling of the Indian roads. Audi, MB, and BMW-all of them are experiencing a greater demand for luxury SUVs compared to saloons and coupes.
Audi seems to have realized this, and on their part, fulfils an SUV that offers their customers the best in performance, luxury, and practicality in one package.
What’s Next for Audi India?
The stopping of a couple of adequately popular cars does not flabbergast the real enthusiast. On a larger scale, the decision is strategic concerning the future of Audi in India. Models that meet market hunger are said to carry Audi ahead of the pack on being further able to flourish inside the country.
In this sense, Audi other offerings for the model aficionado eyeing luxury sedans or performance are such models as the Audi A6 and the S5 Sportback. Even so, it will not be unusual for Audi dealerships to still have a couple of units for interested A8 Ls or RS5 Sportbacks until stocks last.
Closing Thoughts
The decision of Audi to discontinue two models, the A8 L and RS5 Sportback, in India, follows the changing preferences of Indian buyers. Traditionally known sedans and coupes have now taken a back seat to the tremendous luxury SUV onslaught. The phasing out of these two models, combined with the strategic revival of an SUV portfolio, represents the commitment of Audi in actually delivering what the consumer has asked for as the ever-changing landscape of the luxury automotive market places new demands on it in India.