What the Audi Configurator Does and How to Access It
The Audi configurator is an online tool on Audi's US website that lets you build a car to your specifications, see the price, and understand what features come together. You start by choosing a model, then add options layer by layer — exterior color, interior trim, wheels, technology packages, safety features — and the price updates in real time as you make changes. The tool shows you exactly what you're paying for each choice and generates a summary you can save, print, or share with a dealer.
You reach it through Audi.com. Look for a "Build and Price" or "Configure" button, usually on the model pages or the main navigation. The configurator works on desktop and mobile browsers. You do not need to create an account or provide personal information to use it — it is a browsing tool, not a purchase or reservation system.
The configurator is useful for three reasons: it shows you real pricing before you talk to a dealer, it helps you understand which features are standard versus optional on each trim level, and it gives you a document to bring to a dealer or use to compare across dealers. Dealers can also use your configuration to give you a quote or locate inventory that matches what you built.
Key Takeaways
- The Audi configurator is a free online tool where you build a car by choosing model, trim, color, wheels, and packages, and see the total price update in real time.
- You can save or print your configuration and bring it to a dealer, or use it to compare prices and features across different Audi models.
- The configurator shows which features are included in each trim level and which are add-ons, so you understand what you are paying for.
- Prices in the configurator are manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP) before dealer markup, incentives, taxes, or delivery fees.
- The tool does not reserve a vehicle or commit you to anything — it is purely informational and helps you decide what to look for when you contact a dealer.
How to Build a Configuration Step by Step
Start by selecting a model — A4, A6, Q5, Q7, or another current Audi line. The configurator shows you available body styles (sedan, SUV, wagon) and asks you to pick a trim level. Each trim comes with a base price and a standard set of features. Higher trims add more technology, comfort, and performance features as standard.
Once you choose a trim, you move to exterior options: paint color, wheel design and size, and exterior trim packages. Some colors cost extra; the configurator shows the upcharge. Wheels affect both appearance and price, and larger wheels sometimes reduce fuel economy slightly — the tool may note this.
Next comes the interior: seat material (leather, synthetic, or cloth depending on trim), seat color, interior trim finish (wood, aluminum, or carbon fiber), and ambient lighting. Then you add technology and convenience packages — navigation, premium sound systems, driver information features, parking packages — and select individual options like heated seats, panoramic sunroof, or adaptive suspension.
At each step, the total price updates. You can see a breakdown showing the base price, each package cost, and each individual option. When you finish, the configurator generates a summary with an image of your configured car, all the specs, and the final MSRP. You can save this as a PDF, print it, or email it to yourself.
Understanding MSRP Versus What You Actually Pay
The price shown in the configurator is the manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) — Audi's recommended price before any dealer adds their own markup. In practice, what you pay depends on several factors the configurator does not include.
Dealer markup varies. Some dealers charge MSRP; others charge above it, especially for popular models or colors. Some offer discounts below MSRP, particularly on outgoing model years or less popular configurations. The configurator price is a starting point, not a may provide of what a specific dealer will charge.
Incentives and rebates are not shown in the configurator. Audi and dealers periodically offer cash rebates, lease specials, or financing rates that reduce your effective cost. These change monthly and vary by region and model. A dealer can tell you what incentives explore to your configuration.
Delivery, documentation, and registration fees are separate. Audi charges a delivery and destination fee (currently around $1,000 to $1,200 depending on model, though this varies). Dealers add documentation and registration fees. Sales tax is calculated based on your state and local rates. None of these appear in the configurator total.
Using Your Configuration at a Dealership
Print or save your configuration and bring it to a dealer. This gives the dealer a clear picture of what you want and makes the conversation faster. The dealer can tell you whether that exact configuration is in stock, how long it would take to order, and what the actual price will be after dealer markup, incentives, and fees.
A configuration also helps you compare across dealers. If you build the same car and get quotes from three dealers, you can see which one offers the best price on an identical vehicle. This removes guesswork and makes negotiation more straightforward.
Some dealers use the configurator themselves to show customers options or to build inventory lists. If a dealer sends you a link to a pre-built configuration, you can modify it in the tool and send it back, or use it as a starting point for your own build.
What the Configurator Does Not Show
The configurator does not show real-time inventory. It tells you what is possible to build and order, but not which configurations are actually on dealer lots right now. To find inventory, you use Audi's inventory search tool (separate from the configurator) or contact dealers directly.
It does not include regional pricing differences. Audi's MSRP is national, but some regions have higher delivery fees or different incentive programs. Your local dealer can clarify what applies in your area.
The configurator does not account for future model year changes, discontinued options, or supply constraints. If you are configuring a current model year late in the year, some options may become unavailable as the next model year launches. Dealers know what is still orderable and what has been discontinued.
It does not show financing or lease terms. The price is cash MSRP. Financing rates, lease money factors, and residual values come from Audi Financial Services or your own lender and are not part of the configurator.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of the Configurator
Build multiple configurations if you are torn between options. Compare a base model with a few key packages against a higher trim with fewer add-ons. You may find that a lower trim plus specific packages costs less and gives you exactly what you want.
Check the feature details for each package. The configurator usually includes a description of what each package includes — for example, a "Premium Plus" package might bundle navigation, a premium sound system, and leather seats. Reading these descriptions helps you avoid paying for features you do not need.
Use the configurator to understand color and wheel combinations before you commit. Seeing your chosen color with your chosen wheels and trim can reveal combinations that look better or worse in the preview than you expected.
Save your configuration with a clear name if you are building several. Most configurators let you name and save builds, so you can come back to them later or share them with family members or a dealer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order a car directly through the configurator?
No. The configurator is a planning and pricing tool only. Once you have built a configuration you like, you contact a dealer to place an order. The dealer handles the actual purchase, financing, and delivery.
Does the configurator show me cars in stock near me?
No. The configurator builds theoretical cars and shows pricing. To find actual inventory, use Audi's separate inventory search tool on Audi.com or call dealers in your area. You can bring your configuration to a dealer and ask them to find something similar in stock or order it for you.
Why is the price different when I get to the dealer?
The configurator shows MSRP before dealer markup, incentives, taxes, delivery fees, and documentation fees. Dealers add their own profit margin, and incentives or rebates may reduce the price. Always ask the dealer to break down the final price so you understand what each part costs.
Can I change my configuration after I save it?
Yes. If you saved a configuration, you can usually load it back into the configurator and modify any choices. This is useful if you want to explore different options or adjust your budget.
Does the configurator work on my phone?
Yes. The Audi configurator is designed to work on mobile browsers, though a larger screen makes it easier to see all the options and the preview image. You can start on your phone and finish on a desktop, or vice versa.