Audi will increase the number of company-owned, independently run dealerships from 20 to 35 during the next three years, according to UK director Kevin Rose.

Over the same period Mr Rose plans to “progressively reduce” Audi's retail partners within the 127-outlet network from the current level of 88.

But he said the company had no plans to follow Mercedes-Benz's in-house approach to retailing.

“We don't want to be retailers and we don't think we would be good at it,” said Mr Rose. “Our site acquisition strategy involves establishing long-term security and representation.”

Mr Rose predicted that premium brands' combined market share in the UK would climb from 12.5% to nearer 18% within five years. By then Audi sales volume should rise to around 60,000 units, compared to 25,000 cars in 1995.