Audi A8L and RS5 Sportback Discontinued in India: Audi India has quietly removed its flagship A8L sedan and performance-oriented RS5 Sportback from its official Indian website, signaling the discontinuation of these two premium models in the Indian market. Both vehicles were sold via the Completely Built Unit (CBU) route, making them niche offerings for luxury car enthusiasts. While Audi India has not yet released an official statement regarding the discontinuation, the delisting of these models from the website strongly suggests that they will no longer be available for purchase in the country.
The Audi A8L, the long-wheelbase version of Audi’s flagship sedan, was a symbol of luxury and sophistication. Powered by a 3.0L V6 turbo petrol engine producing 340BHP, it came equipped with Audi’s legendary Quattro all-wheel-drive technology. The RS5 Sportback, on the other hand, was a performance beast with a 2.9L twin-turbo V6 petrol engine churning out 490BHP. Both models catered to different segments of the luxury car market, with the A8L focusing on opulence and comfort, while the RS5 Sportback appealed to those seeking high-performance driving dynamics.
As Audi India phases out these models, the brand is gearing up to launch the updated RS Q8 on February 17, 2025. The RS Q8, powered by a 4.0L twin-turbo V8 petrol engine, will be offered in the Performance variant in India. This move indicates Audi’s strategy to focus on high-performance SUVs, which are increasingly popular among Indian buyers. Let’s dive deeper into the specifications, features, and unique selling points of the discontinued A8L and RS5 Sportback, as well as what to expect from the upcoming RS Q8.
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Audi A8L: Specifications and Features
Engine and Performance
- Engine: 3.0L V6 Turbo Petrol
- Power: 340BHP
- Drivetrain: Quattro All-Wheel Drive
- Transmission: Automatic
Design and Comfort
- Seating: Available in 4-seater and 5-seater configurations
- Features: Four-zone climate control, wireless charging, ambient lighting, sunroof, and multiple driving modes
- Wheelbase: Long-wheelbase design for enhanced legroom and comfort
Price
- Last Recorded Price: ₹1.34 crore (ex-showroom)
Audi RS5 Sportback: Specifications and Features
Engine and Performance
- Engine: 2.9L Twin-Turbo V6 Petrol
- Power: 490BHP
- Drivetrain: Quattro All-Wheel Drive
- Transmission: Automatic
Design and Practicality
- Body Style: Four-door Sportback (replacing the two-door coupe variant)
- Features: Sporty interior with premium materials, advanced infotainment system, and driver-focused cockpit
- Performance: 0-100 km/h in under 4 seconds
Price
- Last Recorded Price: ₹1.12 crore (ex-showroom)
Upcoming Launch: Audi RS Q8
Launch Date
- Expected Launch: February 17, 2025
Specifications and Features
- Engine: 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 Petrol
- Power: 600BHP (Performance variant)
- Drivetrain: Quattro All-Wheel Drive
- Transmission: Automatic
Design and Performance
- Body Style: High-performance SUV
- Features: Luxurious interior, advanced driver-assistance systems, and cutting-edge infotainment
- Performance: 0-100 km/h in approximately 3.8 seconds
Unique Selling Points
Audi A8L
- Flagship luxury sedan with a focus on comfort and opulence.
- Long-wheelbase design for enhanced rear-seat comfort.
- Advanced Quattro all-wheel-drive technology for superior handling.
Audi RS5 Sportback
- High-performance sedan with a sporty design.
- Practical four-door configuration without compromising on performance.
- Powerful 2.9L twin-turbo V6 engine for exhilarating driving dynamics.
Audi RS Q8
- Combines the practicality of an SUV with the performance of a sports car.
- Exclusive Performance variant for the Indian market.
- Luxurious features and advanced technology for a premium driving experience.
Specifications
| Model | Engine | Power | Drivetrain | Price (ex-showroom) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audi A8L | 3.0L V6 Turbo Petrol | 340BHP | Quattro AWD | ₹1.34 crore |
| Audi RS5 Sportback | 2.9L Twin-Turbo V6 | 490BHP | Quattro AWD | ₹1.12 crore |
| Audi RS Q8 | 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 | 600BHP | Quattro AWD | TBA |
Audi A8L and RS5 Sportback Discontinued in India Conclusion
The discontinuation of the Audi A8L and RS5 Sportback marks the end of an era for these iconic models in the Indian market. While the A8L was a symbol of luxury and comfort, the RS5 Sportback catered to performance enthusiasts with its powerful engine and sporty design. Audi’s decision to phase out these models reflects the changing preferences of Indian buyers, who are increasingly gravitating towards high-performance SUVs like the upcoming RS Q8.
The Audi RS Q8, set to launch in February 2025, promises to deliver a blend of luxury, performance, and practicality. With its 4.0L twin-turbo V8 engine and Quattro all-wheel-drive technology, the RS Q8 is poised to become a flagship offering in Audi’s Indian lineup. The Performance variant, which will be available in India, is expected to set new benchmarks in the luxury SUV segment.
Audi’s strategy to focus on high-performance SUVs aligns with global trends and the growing demand for versatile vehicles that offer both luxury and performance. While the A8L and RS5 Sportback will be missed, the RS Q8 represents the future of Audi’s offerings in India.
For luxury car enthusiasts, the discontinuation of these models may be disappointing, but it also opens the door to new possibilities. The RS Q8, with its cutting-edge technology and unparalleled performance, is set to redefine the luxury SUV segment in India.
As Audi India continues to evolve its product lineup, it remains committed to delivering vehicles that combine innovation, performance, and luxury. The RS Q8 is a testament to this commitment, and its launch in 2025 is eagerly anticipated by car enthusiasts across the country.
Audi A8L and RS5 Sportback Discontinued in India FAQs
1. Why were the Audi A8L and RS5 Sportback discontinued in India?
Audi India has not released an official statement regarding the discontinuation of the A8L and RS5 Sportback. However, the delisting of these models from the official website suggests that the decision was likely influenced by factors such as low sales volumes, changing consumer preferences, or a strategic shift towards focusing on high-performance SUVs like the upcoming RS Q8. The A8L and RS5 Sportback were sold via the Completely Built Unit (CBU) route, which often results in higher prices due to import duties, making them less accessible to a broader audience.
2. What was the price of the Audi A8L in India?
The Audi A8L was positioned as a flagship luxury sedan in India, with a last recorded price of ₹1.34 crore (ex-showroom). This price reflected its premium positioning, advanced features, and powerful 3.0L V6 turbo petrol engine. The long-wheelbase design and luxurious amenities, such as four-zone climate control and ambient lighting, justified its premium pricing.
3. What made the Audi RS5 Sportback unique?
The Audi RS5 Sportback stood out as a high-performance sedan that combined practicality with thrilling driving dynamics. It was powered by a 2.9L twin-turbo V6 petrol engine producing 490BHP, making it one of the most powerful sedans in its segment. Unlike its two-door coupe predecessor, the RS5 Sportback featured a four-door design, offering greater practicality for everyday use. Its sporty design, advanced Quattro all-wheel-drive system, and luxurious interior made it a favorite among performance enthusiasts.
4. When will the Audi RS Q8 launch in India?
The Audi RS Q8 is scheduled to launch in India on February 17, 2025. This high-performance SUV is expected to make a significant impact in the luxury SUV segment, offering a blend of power, luxury, and advanced technology. The RS Q8 will be available in the Performance variant, catering to Indian buyers seeking a premium driving experience.
5. What engine does the Audi RS Q8 have?
The Audi RS Q8 is powered by a 4.0L twin-turbo V8 petrol engine, which produces 600BHP in the Performance variant. This engine is paired with Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system, ensuring exceptional performance and handling. The RS Q8 is designed to deliver a thrilling driving experience, with a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of approximately 3.8 seconds.
6. Will Audi India bring back the A8L or RS5 Sportback?
As of now, there is no official information about the return of the Audi A8L or RS5 Sportback to the Indian market. Audi India seems to be focusing on expanding its SUV lineup, particularly high-performance models like the RS Q8. However, the automotive industry is dynamic, and Audi could reconsider its strategy based on market demand and evolving consumer preferences in the future.
7. What are the key features of the Audi RS Q8?
The Audi RS Q8 is packed with advanced features that make it a standout in the luxury SUV segment. Key features include:
- Performance: A 4.0L twin-turbo V8 engine producing 600BHP and Quattro all-wheel-drive technology.
- Luxury: A premium interior with high-quality materials, advanced infotainment systems, and customizable ambient lighting.
- Technology: Cutting-edge driver-assistance systems, a digital cockpit, and a high-resolution touchscreen display.
- Design: A sporty and aerodynamic exterior design with aggressive styling cues, including large air intakes and an iconic RS grille.
- Practicality: Ample space for passengers and cargo, making it a versatile choice for both daily commutes and long drives.
