Audi has launched a more powerful version of the A4 saloon with Audi Drive Select, priced at Rs 31.74 lakh (ex-showroom, Mumbai).

 

Whereas the previous 2.0 TDI unit (which is now discontinued and will be sold only until stocks last) put out 140.8bhp, this uprated motor puts out 174.3bhp and 38.7kgm of torque, which are the same figures the A6's 2.0-litre TDI engine puts out. Its claimed 0-100kph time now stands at 7.9 seconds and Audi also claims that the car offers three percent more fuel efficiency than its predecessor, which stands at 17.11kpl.

"The Audi A4 has been Audi’s longest and best selling sedan for close to 40 years now. With its progressive design, efficient driving dynamics and class defining interiors, the Audi A4 enjoys a very wide customer base. The powerful new 174bhp Audi A4 with the Audi Drive Select offers 27 percent more power and offers three percent more fuel efficiency than its predecessor. This car packs a powerful punch with its on-road performance which will appeal to both our discerning customers as well as the enthusiast,” said Joe King, Head, Audi India.

 

Audi India plans to expand its network to 35 dealerships by the end of 2013 from its existing 27 centers. Dealerships were also opened in Mumbai South, Lucknow, Bhubaneswar and Delhi Central earlier this year. Last year saw the opening of Audi showrooms in Raipur, Kanpur, Goa, Navi Mumbai, Coimbatore, Delhi West, Nagpur and Bhopal. Further developments include Visakhapatnam, Noida and Vadodara among others.