Buy an Audi in Germany (2020–Today): Best Engines and What to Avoid
Buying a used Audi in Germany can be a great opportunity for European buyers, but choosing the wrong engine can turn a good deal into an expensive problem.
This guide covers the most common Audi models from 2020 to today, including available engines, power, fuel consumption, CO2 values, electric range, and the main pros and cons of each option. You’ll also see the best engines to buy used in Germany and which versions are better to avoid.

Best Audi Engines to Buy Used in Germany (2020–Today)
Germany is one of the best places in Europe to buy a used Audi, thanks to the huge selection, strong service history, and well-equipped cars.
But not every engine is a good choice—some versions are reliable and cost-friendly, while others can lead to high repair bills, especially if the car has missing maintenance records or was driven mainly on short trips.
This guide helps you compare the most common Audi models from 2020 to today, with a clear overview of available petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid, and electric engines.
You’ll find power figures, WLTP consumption, CO2 values, electric range, and the key strengths and weaknesses of each engine—plus our recommendations for the best used options and the versions you should avoid.
Audi in Germany: The Most Popular Models and Must-Have Equipment
Buying a used Audi in Germany can be a great deal for European buyers, but the engine choice is everything.
Some engines are reliable and cost-friendly, while others can become expensive very fast if you buy the wrong version or a poorly maintained car.
This guide covers the most common Audi models you can buy used in Germany from 2020 to today. You’ll find:
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Available engines (petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid, electric)
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Power (kW and HP)
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Typical WLTP consumption and CO2 values
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Electric range for plug-in hybrid and full electric models
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Strong and weak points for each engine
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Best engine to buy used in Germany and engines to avoid
Note: WLTP figures vary depending on wheels, trim level, and equipment. Always check the exact values in the car’s documents. In Part I of the vehicle registration certificate (Zulassungsbescheinigung Teil I), field V.7 shows the CO₂ emissions in grams per kilometer (g/km).
Buying a used Audi in Germany is a popular choice across Europe because German-market cars often have strong service histories, good equipment levels, and a wide selection. But customer experiences also show that the best Audi is not simply “the newest one” or “the sportiest one.” The right choice depends on trim level, option packages, engine type, and how the car was maintained.
Most popular Audi trims in Europe
Across many European countries, the most searched and most purchased Audi trims tend to be S line and similar sporty styling versions. Buyers like these models because they look more premium, feel more modern, and usually have better resale value. S line models often include sportier bumpers, sport seats, larger wheels, and a more dynamic appearance, which many owners describe as the “ideal Audi look.”
For buyers who prioritize comfort, many reviews suggest choosing a more balanced trim instead of the sportiest styling. A standard or mid-level trim can offer a softer ride, lower running costs, and better everyday usability, especially on rough roads and in city driving. In real-world ownership, comfort can matter more than aggressive styling when you drive daily.
In the larger Audi range, body styles also strongly influence popularity. Avant (estate) models are especially popular in Germany and Northern Europe because owners value the luggage space, practicality, and family-friendly design. Sportback versions are also frequently chosen because they combine a sporty look with better usability than a traditional sedan.
Most wanted Audi equipment based on owner experiences
When customers describe a “good Audi spec,” they usually mean technology and comfort features that improve daily driving and make the car easier to sell later. In many Audi models, two cars can look almost identical in photos but feel completely different behind the wheel depending on the options installed.
Parking support is one of the most valued features across Europe. Parking sensors and a reversing camera are extremely popular because they reduce stress in tight parking spaces and make city driving much easier. Many buyers actively filter listings for these features, especially in larger models like the A4, A6, Q3, Q5, and Q7.
Digital cockpit and infotainment upgrades are another major priority. Owners often prefer Audi models with a larger infotainment screen, navigation, smartphone integration, and a more modern digital dashboard. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are especially important for many buyers, because they reduce the need for built-in navigation and make everyday use more convenient.
Comfort options are also consistently rated as “worth it.” Heated seats are frequently mentioned as one of the best upgrades for winter driving in Europe. Automatic climate control, better seat materials, and upgraded interior lighting can also make the car feel significantly more premium over time.
Driver assistance features are increasingly popular, especially for highway driving. Many owners appreciate adaptive cruise control, lane assist, blind-spot monitoring, and traffic sign recognition. These systems can make long trips less tiring, but experiences can vary. Some drivers love them, while others feel certain systems intervene too strongly. That is why a test drive is important to see if the settings match your driving style.
Headlights are another feature that buyers care about because they directly affect safety and night driving comfort. LED headlights are considered the modern standard in newer Audi models, and many customers strongly prefer them over older halogen or basic xenon setups. Advanced lighting systems like Matrix LED can be a premium bonus on higher models, but the real-world improvement depends on the roads and driving conditions.
For engines and driving feel, quattro all-wheel drive is one of Audi’s most loved features, especially in countries with wet winters, snow, or mountain roads. Owners often describe quattro as confidence-inspiring and stable at higher speeds. At the same time, quattro models can cost more to buy and maintain, so it makes the most sense if you truly benefit from the extra traction.
Transmission choice also affects satisfaction. Many European owners prefer automatic gearboxes for comfort, especially in cities, while manual models can be cheaper and simpler. The right choice depends on the model, driving habits, and service history.
What customers often criticize in Audi ownership
Audi is generally praised for design, interior quality, and the premium driving feeling. But many owners also mention a few common downsides. One of the biggest complaints is ride comfort on sporty trims with large wheels. Sport suspension and low-profile tires can look great, but they often make the ride firmer and noisier on rough roads. For daily commuting, a slightly smaller wheel size is often the more comfortable and practical choice.
Running costs are another important topic in customer reviews. Premium cars often come with premium maintenance costs, especially as mileage increases. Owners frequently recommend choosing a car with a complete service history and avoiding models with unclear maintenance records, even if the price looks attractive.
Some drivers also mention that modern infotainment systems can feel complex at first. Audi’s menus and settings offer many options, but it can take time to get used to them. This is normal, and it becomes much easier once you understand the basic functions and shortcuts.
How to choose the right Audi in Germany
If you want the best Audi experience, focus on the combination of equipment, condition, and documentation rather than only the trim badge. A well-maintained Audi with practical options is usually a better long-term purchase than a sportier model with missing service records.
Before buying, check the service history carefully and confirm that important maintenance was done on time. Also review the equipment list, because some features that look “standard” in photos are actually optional in many Audi models. Finally, do a test drive to evaluate comfort, road noise, steering feel, infotainment usability, and how driver assistance systems behave.
A smart buying strategy is to choose a model that fits your real needs, then prioritize the options that improve daily comfort and future resale value. In most cases, a slightly more expensive but well-equipped Audi will deliver better satisfaction than a cheaper car that looks good but feels basic or has uncertain history.
Audi A1
25 TFSI (70 kW / 95 HP) petrol
Consumption: approx. 5.3 to 6.0 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 120 to 140 g/km
Strong points: very low running costs, perfect for city driving
Weak points: slow on highways, best for calm driving
30 TFSI (85 kW / 116 HP) petrol
Consumption: approx. 5.5 to 5.9 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 125 to 135 g/km
Strong points: best all-round engine, good balance of power and economy
Weak points: needs clean service history and regular oil changes
35 TFSI (110 kW / 150 HP) petrol
Consumption: approx. 5.8 to 6.3 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 133 to 145 g/km
Strong points: strong performance, great for mixed driving
Weak points: higher fuel cost, DSG needs proper maintenance
Best engine to buy used in Germany: 30 TFSI (116 HP)
Engines to avoid: Very cheap cars with unknown service history
Audi A3
30 TFSI (81 kW / 110 HP) petrol
Consumption: approx. 5.4 to 6.2 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 120 to 145 g/km
Strong points: low running costs, great daily car
Weak points: limited power for heavy Autobahn use
35 TFSI (110 kW / 150 HP) petrol
Consumption: approx. 5.1 to 5.9 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 116 to 134 g/km
Strong points: best balance for most buyers
Weak points: turbo petrol needs good oil and maintenance history
30 TDI (85 kW / 116 HP) diesel
Consumption: approx. 4.3 to 5.0 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 114 to 130 g/km
Strong points: very efficient for long-distance driving
Weak points: not ideal for short trips and city use
35 TDI (110 kW / 150 HP) diesel
Consumption: approx. 4.5 to 5.3 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 117 to 135 g/km
Strong points: excellent motorway engine, strong torque
Weak points: higher risk if used mainly in the city
Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV): 40 TFSI e / 45 TFSI e
System power: approx. 150 to 180 kW (204 to 245 HP)
Weighted consumption: approx. 1.0 to 2.0 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 20 to 45 g/km
Electric range (WLTP):
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Older versions (2020 to 2023): approx. 55 to 70 km
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Newer versions (2024+): up to approx. 120 to 140 km
Strong points: great if you can charge daily, strong performance
Weak points: heavy, higher fuel use when the battery is empty
Best engine to buy used in Germany: 35 TFSI (150 HP)
Engines to avoid: Diesel for city-only driving, PHEV if you cannot charge regularly
Audi A5
Audi A5 engines (2020 to 2026) Europe overview
The Audi A5 was sold as the B9 facelift (2020 to 2024) and the new B10 generation (late 2024 to now). Engine availability can vary slightly by country and body type, but these are the most common options in Germany and across Europe. Many versions are mild-hybrid (MHEV).
35 TFSI (110 kW / 150 HP) petrol
Consumption: approx. 6.3 to 7.3 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 144 to 166 g/km
Range full tank: approx. 740 to 860 km
Strong points: smooth, quiet, usually cheapest petrol option
Weak points: fuel use rises quickly in city traffic
40 TFSI (150 kW / 204 HP) petrol
Consumption: approx. 6.1 to 7.5 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 137 to 172 g/km
Range full tank: approx. 750 to 890 km
Strong points: best all-round petrol engine, strong for daily driving and Autobahn
Weak points: higher fuel use on short trips and stop and go traffic
45 TFSI quattro (195 kW / 265 HP) petrol
Consumption: approx. 6.8 to 7.8 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 155 to 177 g/km
Range full tank: approx. 740 to 850 km
Strong points: fast performance, premium feel, strong resale value
Weak points: higher running costs, tyres and brakes can be expensive
35 TDI (120 kW / 163 HP) diesel
Consumption: approx. 4.7 to 5.5 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 123 to 144 g/km
Range full tank: approx. 980 to 1,150 km
Strong points: excellent long-distance engine, very low fuel cost per km
Weak points: not ideal for short trips only, higher diesel maintenance at high mileage
40 TDI (150 kW / 204 HP) diesel
Consumption: approx. 5.0 to 5.8 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 130 to 152 g/km
Range full tank: approx. 930 to 1,080 km
Strong points: best motorway choice, strong torque and very efficient
Weak points: not ideal for city-only driving
40 TDI quattro (150 kW / 204 HP) diesel
Consumption: approx. 5.2 to 6.0 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 135 to 157 g/km
Range full tank: approx. 970 to 1,120 km
Strong points: long range plus quattro traction, ideal for winter and Autobahn
Weak points: higher purchase price and maintenance than front-wheel drive
A5 e-hybrid (220 kW / 299 HP) plug-in hybrid
Consumption: approx. 2.0 to 2.6 l/100 km (weighted WLTP)
CO2: approx. 46 to 59 g/km
Battery-only range: up to 95 to 107 km (WLTP), realistic often 60 to 90 km
Total range (fuel + battery): approx. 720 to 820 km
Strong points: best for commuters who can charge regularly, very low CO2
Weak points: higher price, fuel use increases a lot with empty battery
A5 e-hybrid (270 kW / 367 HP) plug-in hybrid
Consumption: approx. 2.1 to 2.7 l/100 km (weighted WLTP)
CO2: approx. 48 to 59 g/km
Battery-only range: up to 95 to 107 km (WLTP), realistic often 60 to 90 km
Total range (fuel + battery): approx. 700 to 800 km
Strong points: fastest daily A5 option, strong performance plus electric driving
Weak points: expensive, heavy, best only with regular charging
Audi S5 (2020 to 2026) Germany
S5 (2020 to 2024): 3.0 V6 TDI mild-hybrid, 255 kW (347 HP)
Consumption: approx. 6.1 to 6.9 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 160 to 181 g/km
Range full tank: approx. 840 to 950 km
Strong points: huge torque, very fast and still efficient on long trips
Weak points: high diesel maintenance costs, not the classic petrol sound
S5 (late 2024 to now): 3.0 V6 TFSI mild-hybrid, 270 kW (367 PS)
Consumption: approx. 7.5 to 8.2 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 169 to 190 g/km
Range full tank: approx. 680 to 750 km
Strong points: very quick, strong Autobahn performance
Weak points: high running costs, expensive tyres and brakes
Audi RS5 (2020 to 2024)
2.9 V6 twin-turbo petrol (TFSI), 331 kW (450 PS) quattro
Consumption: approx. 9.4 to 9.8 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 213 to 223 g/km
Range full tank: approx. 590 to 620 km
Strong points: extreme performance and premium driving experience
Weak points: very high running costs for fuel, tyres, brakes and insurance
Audi A6 (2020 to today)
Available engines
40 TDI (150 kW / 204 HP) diesel
Consumption: approx. 5.0 to 5.7 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 130 to 149 g/km
Strong points: one of the best engines for long-distance comfort and economy
Weak points: city-only use increases DPF and EGR wear
45 TDI quattro (180 kW / 245 HP) diesel
Consumption: approx. 6.0 to 7.1 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 150 to 186 g/km
Strong points: strong torque, great motorway performance
Weak points: higher servicing costs
50 TDI quattro (210 kW / 286 HP) diesel
Consumption: approx. 6.2 to 7.1 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 160 to 187 g/km
Strong points: effortless power and comfort
Weak points: expensive ownership and repairs
45 TFSI quattro (195 kW / 265 HP) petrol
Consumption: approx. 7.3 to 8.2 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 166 to 186 g/km
Strong points: smooth, quiet, better for mixed driving
Weak points: fuel costs can be high
55 TFSI (up to 270 kW / 367 HP) petrol
Consumption: approx. 6.6 to 8.1 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 150 to 184 g/km
Strong points: powerful and premium
Weak points: high running costs, not budget friendly
Audi A6 e-tron (Electric)
Available versions
A6 e-tron (210 kW / 286 HP) RWD
Consumption: approx. 13.4 to 15.4 kWh/100 km
CO2: 0 g/km
Range (WLTP): approx. 560 to 630 km
Strong points: great efficiency and range, excellent daily comfort
Weak points: battery and charging health are very important when buying used
A6 e-tron performance (270 kW / 367 HP) RWD
Consumption: approx. 13.6 to 15.8 kWh/100 km
Range (WLTP): approx. 680 to 770 km
Strong points: best range option
Weak points: higher purchase price
A6 e-tron quattro (315 kW / 428 HP) AWD
Consumption: approx. 14.4 to 16.6 kWh/100 km
Range (WLTP): approx. 640 to 730 km
Strong points: strong traction and performance
Weak points: higher consumption than RWD versions
Audi A8 (2020 to today)
Available engines
50 TDI quattro (210 kW / 286 HP) diesel
Consumption: approx. 6.5 to 7.0 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 170 to 190 g/km
Strong points: best A8 engine for long-distance ownership
Weak points: maintenance costs are high
55 TFSI quattro (250 kW / 340 HP) petrol
Consumption: approx. 9.3 to 10.4 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 212 to 236 g/km
Strong points: extremely smooth and quiet
Weak points: very high fuel cost
A8 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)
System power: up to approx. 330 kW (449 HP)
Weighted consumption: approx. 2.0 to 2.5 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 45 to 55 g/km
Electric range (WLTP): approx. 50 to 60 km
Strong points: luxury + low official emissions
Weak points: complex and expensive, only worth it if you charge daily
Audi Q2 (2020 to today)
Available engines
35 TFSI (110 kW / 150 HP) petrol
Consumption: approx. 5.1 to 5.7 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 116 to 130 g/km
Strong points: best engine for most buyers, great for city and mixed use
Weak points: comfort depends heavily on wheel size
30 TDI (85 kW / 116 HP) diesel
Consumption: approx. 4.8 to 5.3 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 125 to 139 g/km
Strong points: very efficient
Weak points: diesel issues if used mainly for short city trips
40 TFSI quattro (140 kW / 190 HP) petrol
Consumption: approx. 7.0 to 7.6 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 160 to 174 g/km
Strong points: fast, AWD traction
Weak points: higher fuel and tyre costs
Audi Q3 (2020 to today)
Available engines
35 TFSI (110 kW / 150 HP) petrol
Consumption: approx. 6.5 to 7.3 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 147 to 165 g/km
Strong points: safest and most reliable choice for most buyers
Weak points: not sporty, average fuel economy
35 TDI (110 kW / 150 HP) diesel
Consumption: approx. 5.4 to 6.0 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 140 to 157 g/km
Strong points: perfect for motorway users
Weak points: expensive if driven mainly in the city
40 TDI quattro (142 kW / 193 HP) diesel
Consumption: approx. 6.2 to 6.9 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 163 to 182 g/km
Strong points: strong power, AWD traction, great for long trips
Weak points: higher servicing cost
Q3 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)
System power: around 180 kW (245 HP)
CO2: approx. 30 to 45 g/km
Electric range (WLTP): approx. 50 to 60 km
Strong points: great if you charge daily
Weak points: heavy, only makes sense with regular charging
Audi Q4 e-tron (Electric)
Available versions
Q4 35 e-tron (125 kW / 170 HP) RWD
Consumption: approx. 17 to 20 kWh/100 km
Range (WLTP): approx. 340 to 370 km
Strong points: best entry EV version
Weak points: smaller battery, limited range for long trips
Q4 40 e-tron (150 kW / 204 HP) RWD
Consumption: approx. 16 to 19 kWh/100 km
Range (WLTP): approx. 450 to 520 km
Strong points: best value for most buyers
Weak points: check charging history and software updates
Q4 45 e-tron (210 kW / 286 HP) RWD
Range (WLTP): up to around 530 km
Strong points: strong performance with good range
Weak points: higher price than 40 e-tron
Q4 50 e-tron quattro (220 kW / 299 HP) AWD
Range (WLTP): approx. 460 to 500 km
Strong points: great traction
Weak points: higher consumption than RWD versions
Audi Q5 (2020 to today)
Available engines
40 TDI (150 kW / 204 HP) diesel
Consumption: approx. 5.3 to 5.6 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 139 to 150 g/km
Strong points: best Q5 engine for long-distance driving
Weak points: not ideal for short city trips
45 TFSI (195 kW / 265 HP) petrol
Consumption: approx. 7.5 to 9.0 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 170 to 210 g/km
Strong points: smooth and quiet
Weak points: high fuel costs
Q5 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)
System power: approx. 220 to 270 kW (299 to 367 HP)
CO2: approx. 35 to 50 g/km
Electric range (WLTP): approx. 50 to 62 km
Strong points: excellent if you can charge daily
Weak points: expensive repairs and high fuel use if not charged
Audi Q6 e-tron (Electric)
Available versions
Q6 e-tron (185 kW / 252 HP) RWD
Consumption: approx. 16.1 to 18.7 kWh/100 km
Range (WLTP): approx. 455 to 531 km
Strong points: premium electric SUV, great comfort
Weak points: not the longest range version
Q6 e-tron performance (225 kW / 306 HP) RWD
Consumption: approx. 16.6 to 19.3 kWh/100 km
Range (WLTP): approx. 550 to 639 km
Strong points: best balance of range and performance
Weak points: higher purchase price
Q6 e-tron quattro (285 kW / 387 HP) AWD
Consumption: approx. 17.0 to 19.8 kWh/100 km
Range (WLTP): approx. 534 to 623 km
Strong points: strong traction and power
Weak points: higher consumption than RWD
Audi Q7 (2020 to today)
Common engines
Diesel V6 (45 TDI / 50 TDI, 231 to 286 HP)
Consumption: approx. 7.0 to 9.0 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 185 to 240 g/km
Strong points: best engine type for long-distance family SUV use
Weak points: expensive tyres, brakes, and suspension
55 TFSI (petrol V6, 340 HP)
Consumption: approx. 10.0 to 12.0 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 230 to 280 g/km
Strong points: smooth driving
Weak points: very expensive fuel consumption
Q7 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)
Electric range (WLTP): up to around 80 to 90 km (depends on version)
Strong points: good option only if you charge daily
Weak points: heavy, expensive repairs if neglected
Audi Q8 (2020 to today)
Available engines
45 TDI (231 HP) diesel
Consumption: approx. 8.0 to 9.0 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 210 to 235 g/km
Strong points: best realistic engine option
Weak points: expensive ownership
50 TDI (286 HP) diesel
Consumption: approx. 8.0 to 8.8 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 210 to 231 g/km
Strong points: very strong, great for highways
Weak points: high maintenance costs
55 TFSI (340 HP) petrol
Consumption: approx. 10.0 to 11.5 l/100 km
CO2: approx. 230 to 260 g/km
Strong points: smooth and fast
Weak points: very high fuel cost
Q8 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)
Electric range (WLTP): up to around 80 to 90 km
Strong points: huge power, low official emissions
Weak points: only good if you charge daily
Audi e-tron GT (Electric)
Available versions
e-tron GT quattro (350 kW / 476 HP)
Consumption: approx. 20 to 23 kWh/100 km
Range (WLTP): approx. 450 to 490 km
Strong points: incredible performance and premium comfort
Weak points: expensive tyres, brakes, insurance, and repairs
Best Audi engines to buy used in Germany
If you want the safest and most cost-friendly choices:
Audi A1: 30 TFSI
Audi A3: 35 TFSI
Audi A5: 40 TFSI (mixed driving) or 40 TDI (long-distance)
Audi A6: 45 TFSI (mixed) or 40 TDI (long-distance)
Audi A8: 50 TDI
Audi Q2: 35 TFSI
Audi Q3: 35 TFSI
Audi Q4 e-tron: 40 e-tron
Audi Q5: 40 TDI
Audi Q6 e-tron: Performance (225 kW)
Audi Q7: Diesel V6
Audi Q8: 45 TDI
Audi e-tron GT: Standard quattro
How we help European buyers purchase safely in Germany
Buying in Germany can be difficult if you don’t know the market, the paperwork, or the language.
We help you:
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Choose the right Audi model and engine for your needs
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Avoid risky engines and expensive versions
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Contact the seller on your behalf and speak German for you
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Ask the right questions and get clear answers before you commit
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Inspect the car in Germany before you buy, so you can purchase safely and confidently
If you want, I can also create a short “mobile-friendly” version of this page with stronger sales copy and clearer sections for better conversion.
