Re: quattro-digest V4 #246

[philby@ix.netcom.com (Phil Coppin)]

Re A4 pricing.
I was informed by an Audi rep. in May of last year that dealers were 
being "encouraged" to stimulate sales on the 96 A4 but that the 97 
models would be priced somewhat higher and that they would be bringing 
in different engine/trim levels for 97 (this all proved to be true!!) 
He also said that Audi wanted to get more of their cars seen on the 
road in anticipation of the favorable press the car would receive from 
U.S. car magazines (given the European praise) and that they were on a 
push to increase U.S. sales. 

We got a great deal on our 96 A42.8q Automatic (I know, I know - a 
slushbox - it's the wifes car!!!) ($700 over invoice) it was loaded 
except for ski-sack and dealer installed Phone/CD changer. I have 
spoken with some 97 owners who said that their dealer was less inclined 
to heavily discount the cars as they were now selling well - looks like 
the press reports and publicity worked!!!.

Anyway, its our first Audi and we love it (except for the B pillar 
rattle which will be fixed next week when we take it in for its first 
service). FYI - I was hit by a Chicago bus 3 weeks ago while I was 
stationary at a light. All he did was $187 of damage to the rear bumper 
- (clearcoat replaced and bumper alignment needed).....what a car!!!