Audi Q5 and BMW X3
BMW India has finally launched the all new BMW X3. The new X3 was supposed to arrive at the beginning of the year but was delayed due to some technical reasons which we had discussed in an earlier article. Just days ahead of its launch Audi mysteriously decided to slash the prices of the Audi Q5 which directly rivals the X3. We did expect BMW to react to this but, BMW went on with their strategy and announced the pricing for the car. The new BMW X3 range starts at Rs 42 lakh ex-showroom Delhi.
Audi’s cunning move has put a question mark on the new BMW X3′s future. Audi has been the best seller in this segment. The previous generation BMW X3 did not do well in India. The sales figures for the past months speak for themselves. BMW sold just 14 units of the BMW X3 since January, 2011. So what prompted Audi to take such a brave decision? The Audi Q5 was priced at around Rs 43 lakh ex-showroom before launching the Business Edition model. The new Q5 with a 2.0 litre TDI now costs just Rs 35.13 lakh. Now, that is Rs 6 lakh less than the equivalent BMW X3.
We were expecting BMW’s pricing to be competitive but, the new pricing might not please those who were waiting for new X3 to arrive in India. Audi’s Business Edition Q5 with its attractive price tag does have an advantage over the beemer. Also, Audi has not stripped-out the Audi Q5 to offer it at a lower price. You still get 17 inch alloy wheels, sun-roof, ABS, Air-bags for both driver and passenger etc. Under the bonnet is a 2.0 litre, 4 cylinder diesel engine that puts out 170 bhp and 350 Nm of torque.
Audi Q5 and BMW X3
So as far as pricing is concerned, the Audi wins the first round and in India, this could have serious ramifications on the sales of the new BMW X3. We will keep an eye on the X3′s performance over the next couple of months and only then we will actually be able to analyse the effects of Audi’s aggressive pricing strategy. Until then, all we can say is that both products deserve their fair share of admiration. Both SUV’s feature all-wheel drive however, the BMW is a tad bit powerful than the Audi.
The BMW X3 xDrive20d’s 4-cylinder diesel puts out 184 bhp and 380 torques. The beemer has also got an 8-speed automatic unlike the Audi’s 7-speed box. Also, the BMW has got road presence which vital when driving on Indian roads especially when you need to hustle someone to pass him. The Audi, on the other hand is more understated. So, in the end it will all boil down to personal choice. The BMW is better looking but the Audi isn’t brash either.
The BMW is more powerful and comes with BMW’s characteristic handling DNA. But, the Rs 6 lakh difference does make it lose out on all fronts because, in India, price does matter whether you’re rich or poor. However, a few questions need to be answered. Was Audi losing confidence in its product that had been leading the segment alongside a not-so-competent rival product? How was Audi able to shave 6 lakh rupees off its sticker price in the first place?
1 comment:
I think its impossible to break-in the image of BMW x3.This is a sporty luxury compact SUV that doesn't feel like one. The interior is roomy and can comfortably seat a family of four to five adults. The trunk is spacious, accommodating stacks of boxes .
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