Audi to start pre-owned car biz

Owning an Audi is going to become easier and more affordable now. The Volkswagen Group-owned brand is expected to roll out its exclusive pre-owned car programme called ‘Audi Approved Plus’ by December-end, for the first time in India.

According to sources, Audi Approved Plus showrooms will house about 8-10 Audis that will, on an average, be around 4-5 years old. According to a Gurgaon-based Audi dealer, a basic 2009 model A4 diesel saloon will cost anywhere between Rs 18-19 lakh in the Audi pre-owned outlets compared to Rs 30.10 lakh for a brand-new model. Authorised Audi dealers are planning to open the pre-owned outlets adjacent to the new ones, or in the vicinity, in various cities including Gurgaon.

This news comes close on the heels of a price increase announced on November 15 when Audi India confirmed a bump up of up to five percent across its model range from January 1, 2013. “The overall market scenario is challenging. The rise in input cost, depreciating rupee as well as continuous increase in fuel prices have made us re-evaluate our pricing strategy in India and increase the prices of the entire range. However, we are offering customers innovative and customised finance options from Audi Finance which will make their purchase more attractive,” said Michael Perschke, head, Audi India.