25,000kms Update
A little over 3.5 years later, the car has barely covered 23,000kms - primarily in Mumbai's stop & go traffic. The initial observations still haven't changed, and thanks to the fantastic ride quality - it is the ideal chauffeur driven car (barring the low rear seats of course).
The few rare times I have driven it, I really enjoy the way it provides a stress-free commute with its ability to block out all noises, light steering to fight traffic, and superb handling, and drivable motor. However, after being pampered by the excellent DSG in the Laura, I would put a better gearbox on the wish list - the CVT is great for traffic and cruising, but is no match to the BMW or DSG units for those quick overtaking manoeuvres, etc.
Another grouse with the car is its inconsistent reliability & service. In the last year, the following parts have been replaced:
- Air Suspension: Air Compressor
- Drive Belt Idler Bearing
Each time, it would require several days at the workshop to get the issues fixed. With the AC failure that took place a couple of years earlier - this car has had three big issues in a span of 3 years/25,000kms!
Thankfully we purchased the extended warranty for 5 years - and it has probably already paid itself off. But still - what happens after the 5 year period? Maybe Audi India read
http://www.team-bhp.com/forum/owning...rade-swap.html , and have found out a loophole to keep their cash registers (or competitions') ringing?
Please note: The car is driven by an experienced chauffeur (99%), or myself (1%). It probably sees better roads than most vehicles in Mumbai, and is rarely driven at over 80kmph / redlined (0.05% if at all with that gearbox, and Mumbai traffic). These issues cannot be attributed to driving rashly, or poor maintenance!
Similarly, a stone fell and cracked the rear left passenger window. Audi quoted a waiting time of several weeks for the part, whereas I was able to get the same part from Windshield Experts in a matter of a couple of days! As a premium vehicle customer, you would not want the car waiting in the workshop for weeks on end just for parts to arrive!
Audi & the VWAG group in general really need to work on these teething reliability issues, as well as their service.
While their products are excellent in their own ways - such incidents and headaches are going to keep repeat customers away!