Audi A8 L & RS5 Sportback Removed from India Lineup – What’s Next?

​Audi India has discreetly removed the RS5 Sportback and the Audi A8 L, two of its best-selling models, from the portfolio. Both models are no longer for sale in the nation and have been taken down from the brand's official website.

Audi A8 L

The Audi A8 L, the company's flagship sedan, was only offered in the long-wheelbase configuration. The most recent version of the current generation vehicle was released in July 2022 and was propelled by a 3.0L V6 turbocharged petrol engine that generated 335 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque. Power supply to all four wheels was guaranteed by Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive technology.

In India, the A8 L faced competition from high-end sedans including as the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Audi is unlikely to bring the model back because it is reaching the end of its lifetime. It is anticipated that the next A8 will be entirely electric.

Audi RS5 Sportback

August 2021 saw the launch of the RS5 Sportback, a performance-oriented coupe variant of the A5 sedan, in India. It had an 8-speed automated gearbox, Audi's Quattro AWD system, and a 2.9L twin-turbo V6 petrol engine that produced 444 horsepower and 600 Nm of torque.

The sporty styling and exceptional performance of the RS5 Sportback were well-known. The RS5 is nearing the end of its lifespan, just as the A8 L. However, because the basic A5 sedan has already been updated for international markets, Audi may introduce a new generation RS5 in the future.

Verdict

With the extinction of these vehicles, an era for Audi's performance and luxury sedans in India comes to an end. In the Indian market, Audi is anticipated to solely focus on its next electric cars and other innovative products.