Monthly Archives: December 2008

Car Mileage Made Transparent for Consumers

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All new passengers cars that will roll out from the January 1st , 2009 will display mileage information. The rule declared by Indian government for all car manufacturers to tag their car models with the mileage information will be implement with the advent of new year.

Maruti Suzuki will be the first car company to imply the rule in the country. The company has already started a training programme for its 14,000 dealers across 600 sales outlets in order to implement the “Fuel Economy Consumer Information” programme.

Interestingly, Maruti Suzuki has already implemented the rule by announcing the fuel economy of its global car A Star. The data for the same is provided by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI). The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) is supposed to test cars and two-wheelers under the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturer’s initiative to provide the mileage related information.

These information will also be supported with a disclaimer which states ‘disclosed figure has been arrived at in test conditions and fuel values could differ due to variables such as driving habits, road and traffic conditions, fuel quality, maintenance practices, loading pattern and so on’.

This is an good step taken by the government and the car manufacturers. It is the duty of the car manufacturers to reveal the fuel economy to help the buyers make a good selection based on their need.

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Hyundai Cars to Get High Price Tag

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New Hyundai Accent cars in India

The calender year 2008 turned out to be a year of see-saw for the car industry stung by the inflation and global recession. These all has compelled car manufacturers to hike their car prices. Many car manufacturers including the Honda Motors, General Motors, and the Maruti Suzuki have plans to increase the prices of their car models.

Recently, as part of Christmas and New Year celebration car manufacturers have announced attractive discounts and schemes to push car sales amid sluggish car market. Alluring discounts and schemes attracted buyers and the car manufacturers did saw some silver lining on the dark clouds. But now the New Year is going to play a little harsh on consumers with the expected increase of car prices.

Hyundai has declared to hike its car prices by 2 percent from January 2009. The price hike is said to be the result of increasing price of raw material, labour costs, and other input costs. Presently, Hyundai is one of the leading players in India with many popular and admired car models. Its cars has steal the hearts of many and with the latest addition of Hyundai i20 in its car portfolio, Honda will definitely climb a step forward on the ladder of success.

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Fiat to Launch Low-Cost Car

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Tata Nano, since its debut has not only captivated masses but also inspired many car manufactures with its distinctive appearance. The world’s cheapest car being a unique and first of its kind concept has given speed to the race to introduce fuel efficient, cost effective, and appealing small cars.

Many car majors are working on the similar concept. This time the ‘ultra-cheap cars’ bug has bitten the Fiat. Motivated by its partner, Tata Motors, Fiat is speculated to design a similar car based on Panda/500 platform.

Recently, Fiat has rolled out the premium hatchback Fiat 500 in India and now planning to introduce a ultra-cheap car which will be named as ‘Topolino’ in the European market.

It is said that the ultra-cost car may not be introduced under the Fiat brand. Initially, the new car will carry two cylinder engine later followed by a electric version.

The low-cost car will target the Asian, South American and the Eastern European markets. There are rumours that Fiat will roll out its cheap cars in all its markets within a year or two of its launch.

Would Tata’s Nano and Fiat’s new car will be rolled out at the same time? This can be answered only by the car manufacturers. Lets wait and watch the ‘ultra low cost’ car race!

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Low Interest Rates with Luxury Cars

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Despite the present economic downturn, luxury cars are giving challenge to small cars in India.

Yes its true! and this is mainly attributed to the low interest packages offered with the luxury cars.

When the small car buyers are paying nearly14 percent interest rates, the luxury cars charge only 6 percent. Previously, the loan for luxury cars had a interest rates of up to 15%, whereas the loan for small cars and mid-size were available with a interest rates of 12-15%, making a difference of around Rs 8,000 in monthly payouts on a Rs 18 Lakh loan.

As a move to elevate their car sales, the luxury car manufacturers are offering various schemes and offers with their cars. Mercedes-Benz has intelligently announced an rebate of Rs 8 Lakh with its E-Class sedan in order to clear the stocks as the company is planning to launch a new E-class model very soon. Following Mercedes-Benz, BMW has applied similar strategy through its preferred financier ICICI Bank These smart steps taken by both the companies will surely bring back the fading customers to their showrooms.

The low EMI will definitely allure car buyers till the economy bounce back to its normal position further increasing the luxury car sales.

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Volkswagen and Audi Cars to Get New Engine

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There are rumours that the Audi and Volkswagen are planning to introduce a turbo-charged 2-litre four-cylinder engine in their upmarket A8 and Phaeton. Though the model Phaeton is currently not available in India, the Audi A8 is sure to enthrall the Indian consumers.

This new and advanced engine is considered to improve the power output, performance, acceleration, and fuel efficiency of the cars. With highest degree of performance, the new engine would further add value to the existing models.

Nothing is decided and there is no announcement that reveals the exact date of launch of these modified cars. But the chairman of Volkswagen, Martin Winterkorn, said that the production of prototypes of these cars with turbo-charged engines are under process. And are also likely to be tested very soon.

If the speculations are true, then both the cars will set a new benchmark in the car industry with their incredible and impelling force.

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BMW’s New Cars to Conquer Indian Market

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BMW ratchets up the trend of introducing new cars in the Indian car market. The company has high plans to launch a variety of new cars along with the model-line extensions.

Some of the great deliveries by the BMW are to be seen in the upcoming X6 and revamped 5-Series. The company is gradually widening its range and strengthening its credentials in India. After introducing the 3-Series, 5-Series, and the 7-Series, the even numerals in between like the 2-Series, 4-Series, and the 6-Series are also expected to be a part of the BMW portfolio soon. An expansion of Z-Series along with extension of X3 is also expected from the BMW’s stable.

The next generation 5-Series is speculated to be introduced by 2010 with a completely new chassis, a double wishbone front suspension, and a light-hybrid technology. Additionally, the X6 hybrid would be rolled out with a completely new concept. But this new concept is expected to be overpowered by the company’s own X3 that is to be introduced with new dimensions, pleasing interiors, and intelligent engine technology.

The BMW is also working on the concept of 1-Series based on the platform of roadster and the Z4 based on Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class. The new image of the A8 is known to be revived in the form of a four door coupe designed and built on the lines of the Porsche Panamera and the Aston Martin Rapide.

With so many new cars in BMW’s stable, there is much to expect in terms of design, engineering, excellence, and elegance.

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Audi’s Onslaught in India

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Audi with its magical four rings has rejoiced success in the Indian car market with a host of elegant, stylish, and luxurious cars. The Audi A4, Audi Q7, Audi R8, Audi A6, Audi A8, and the Audi TT form the complete portfolio of Audi cars in India. All these models are ardently crafted with state-of-art designing and leading edge engineering.

Till date, Audi has maintained a huge gap between consecutive new car launches so that the Indian populace can relish the beauty of each and every Audi car. But now the company plans to fill the long gaps between the launch of its car models.

Audi has a bunch of SUVs and sports car line up for the Indian market. Speculations are there that the Audi A1 and the A7 would lead the new car launches by Audi. Adding to them would be the entry level SUVs like the Q3 and Q5 that may be of special interest to Indian consumers who are now appreciating and welcoming the high-end SUVs.

Adding to the Audi R8 would be the R6, smaller sibling of the powerful and responsive R8. The company also plans to transform the exhilarating R8 to a high performance and exclusive coupe, speculated to be christened as Audi R8 Spider. Audi TT would get its RS variants along with the introduction of a refurbished version of the elite Audi A8.

Audi cars have the power to captivate millions of people with its design and engineering excellence. And so, the complete line up seems to worth the desperate wait of Audi admirers.

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Tata Indica Turns 10

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New Tata Indica Vista Cars in India

December is a month of celebrations for the car manufacturers. After a long time of downturn, some of the car manufacturers have experienced good sales this month. This festive season is coupled with the celebrations of the 25th anniversary of Maruti Suzuki and 10th anniversary of Tata Indica.

The first Indica was rolled out in 30th December 1998. Since then, the car has crossed various economic barriers with its changing style, design, performance, and engine technology. Tata Motors has unveiled various generations of the Indica in response to the changing demands of the Indian consumers.

To add special joy and cheer to the 10th anniversary of the Indica, the company has introduced a special limited edition of the Indica Vista. The new generation Indica when launched in August 2008, has laid a strong foundation in the car industry.

The limited edition excitingly comes with new vibrant colour combinations that include Porcelain White with a black roof. Adding to the exterior is the beauty of gold finished grill garnish, golden emblems, and a expressively designed number plate. Peep into the interiors and you’ll know the actual beauty of the Vista that is embellished with premium features and subtle touches.

The anniversary special Quadrajet Diesel and Safire Petrol Indica Vista are available with price tags of Rs 5,04,045 (ex-showroom Delhi) and Rs 4,15,263 (ex-showroom Delhi), respectively.

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Welcome the Stylish Hyundai i20

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New Hyundai i20 Cars in India

The dazzling Hyundai i20 is here to engulf the Indian car market with its intoxicating beauty and style. After being introduced in the international market, the new i-series makes it debut in the domestic car market.

The new car is all set to create a new benchmark in the Hyundai’s illustrious history. Since the time the i20 was showcased at the Paris Show, it had received an overwhelming response from millions of people across the globe. i20′s cousin i10 has already carved its own niche in the Indian car market, and now it’s the time for i20 to prove its excellence. It is launched with a desire to fulfill the promise and commitment made by Hyundai to provide its customer a stylish yet low priced small car.

The car is meticulously designed keeping the style and technical precision in priority to meet the high quality standards. Large interior cabin, body coloured radiator grille, attractive headlamps, striking rear light clusters, and colour co-ordinated bumpers add to the aesthetic and appeal of the scintillating i20.

In the interiors, the new Hyundai i-series is beautified with tilt & telescopic steering, dual tone beige interiors, 60:40 split folding rear seats, 2 DIN CD + MP3 music system, refrigerated glove box, and an impressive multi-information display. The top-end version of the new car is further accentuated with fully automatic A/C, leather wrapped steering wheel and TGS knob, steering mounted audio control, foldable key with keyless entry function, height-adjustable driver seat, and electrically foldable and adjustable outside mirrors.

When talking about the safety standards, the new Hyundai i-series beholds an exceptionally high standard of active and passive safety. The car is smartly equipped with class-leading safety features including anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), and six airbags. The i20 has becomes the first Indian car in its class that has six airbags to ensure safety of both the driver as well as the occupants.

Available in three variants – Magna, Asta and Asta (O), the car is powered with a responsive 1.2 Litre Kappa, DOHC petrol engine that meets the Euro V emission norms. In addition, a rainbow of seven solid and exhilarating hues adds to the significant and pleasing appeal of the Hyundai i20. This dashing car with so many impressive features cost only Rs 4.7 Lakh to Rs 5.8 Lakh.

Meeting the global standards in terms of looks, performance, safety, and emission norms, the new i20 is expected to establish a completely new platform and offer an experience of a lifetime to all its customers.

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Audi R8′s Sibling to Arrive Soon

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At the time when the entire industry is under the grasp of economic recession, Audi has made a bold move by launching the powerful and luxirious Audi R8. The car made its debut sprinkling elegance, excellence and dynamism over the Indian car market. Resulted from innovative and powerful ideas, the car with its extraordinary aesthetics and technological wonders is a commendable sports car.

After witnessing the birth of the commanding Audi R8, it’s time to witness the transformation of the car. Yes, it’s speculated that the convertible version of the R8 was spotted in Germany. With a conventional fabric roof, additional air intakes behind the seats, safety roll-over bars, and high strength chassis, the convertible version was catched while undergoing testing without camouflage.

Audi calls this convertible version of the R8 as Audi R8 Spider, a car that would spy the secrets of luxury and power. Like the Audi R8, the Spider may also take long to enter India but sooner or later it would definitely be found brightening the Indian roads.

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