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Ford Fida-limited edition unveiled

One of India’s auto majors, Ford, recently unveiled the limited edition of “Fida”, which is expected to witness booming sales during this festive time of year. It is a vehicle with more style, more magnificence, and more comfort.

Ford Fiesta Fida is coupled to 1.6L all-aluminum Duratec petrol engine that is designed to deliver a power of 99.62 hp. It is combined to a 5-speed manual transmission that complements its magnificent performance. The powerful acceleration, which attains 0-100 km/h in just 11.66 seconds, will leave everyone stunned. The car’s critical functions are administered by a GEM (General Electronic Module). The car has been put through various exhaustive crash tests that make it a safe vehicle to own.

The exterior looks awesome with the turn signals incorporated in the outside mirrors and glossy wheels. The vinyl-leather seat covers make the occupants feel comfortable. Ford Fida comes equipped with an intelligent rear-defogger, front fog lamps, a programmable keyless entry, and a trip computer.

With just rupees 6,60,000/- (ex-showroom Delhi), the Fida can be a part of your festive celebrations.

Labels: competition, Ford India, Indian car market, launch in India

Hyundai Getz Prime releases a diesel variant in India

Hyundai, one of India’s premier auto majors, announced that their well-known Getz Prime will get a diesel variant. The diesel variant is said to give the much expected fuel economy of 17 km/l, which will help long distance commuters.

The Getz Prime diesel adorns a noiseless 1.5L engine CRDi turbocharged engine is said to deliver a power of 110 bhp, which is sure to leave everyone breathless. Getz Prime comes with a price tag of rupees 5,69,000/- (ex-showroom Delhi) and is said to be available from the second week of October.

This new Getz Prime diesel is sure to pose a nose-to-nose competition to the Maruti Swift diesel, which is priced between rupees 4.73 lakh to 5.25 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

Labels: competition, Hyundai, Indian car market, launch in India, Maruti

Renault Megane likely to enter India

After the success of Mahindra-Renault Logan, Renault is speculated to enter the market in the second half of 2008 with another Logan-based model called Megane. The seven-seater MUV Megane will join the Mahindra-Renault family is also expected to produce a hatchback in the not-so-far future.

The booming MUV market in India is expecting more multi utility and sports utility vehicles in the coming year. The technologically high-end Megane stands out from the crowd with its pronounced, bulbous exteriors. The Megane is the top selling MUV in the Australian market. Its interior has plenty of storage space and a generous dose of standard equipments that can be expected from a European car.

The Global sales of Renault have seen a significant growth of 11.4 percent in the past two months. New models, like Kangoo, Megane, and Clio have contributed to this success. Renault's Megane is expected to release both its two and four-wheel drive options in India.

Labels: competition, Imported cars, Indian car market, launch in India, Mahindra, Mahindra-Renault, Renault

Mahindra Ingenio likely to launch by 2008

Mahindra & Mahindra is looking to launch its semi-hybrid and full-hybrid versions of its Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) - Scorpio by next year. The primary focus of Ingenio would be on diesel engines. The first prototype of Ingenio will be running on Indian roads by January next year.

Mahindra & Mahindra is believed to be working on a combination of diesel and battery-operated hybrid engine for Ingenio. It will combine both the common rail diesel technology and the fuel-saving technology of an electric motor. This will provide the vehicle a better fuel economy and a lower transmission, while giving the benefit of a full hybrid performance.

Ingenio will build on a new platform and M&M has discarded the idea of utilizing the ageing platform of the Bolero. The Ingenio is likely to have a monocoque platform rather than a conbody-on-frame chassis.

Labels: car manufacturers, cars, Indian car market, launch in India, Mahindra

All-new Honda Accord soon to hit Indian roads

The new Honda Accord, unlike its predecessor, is an icon of more luxury and more sophistication. The bold and elegant style of the new Accord makes heads turn. Its extended body structure makes way for roomy interiors with ample leg-room, head-room, and shoulder-room - all that is needed for a comfortable long drive.

The exterior of the car witnesses a chrome-bordered grille, chrome exhaust tips, bi-color wraparound taillights, and day-time running lamps added to the elegant and sporty styling. The vehicle is more powerful with a V-6 engine that is capable of delivering a power of 268 hp. A choice of 5-speed automatic or manual transmission is available. Interiors swank of a plethora of convenience features including an air filtration system, power windows, cruise control, and steering wheel mounted phone controls for Bluetooth HandsFreeLink.

The improved safety features include the Vehicle Stability Assist, an anti-lock braking system with electronic brake distribution, a tyre pressure monitoring system, and an Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure along with side curtain airbags and standard front airbags to provide good safety to all passengers.

Labels: Honda, Indian car market, launch in India, luxury cars

Bentley to launch Azure & Continental GTC in India

Bentley, the English automakers, has set plans to launch its two new super luxury convertibles - Azure and Continental GTC on Indian roads soon. The company expects to sell 25 cars in India this year and would soon open their second outlet in Mumbai. Bentley debuted in India in October 2003 with a single outlet in Delhi. It has sold close to 50 cars and maintained exclusivity in the Indian market.

Bentley Azure will be powered by a V-8 6.75-litre twin turbo-charged engine and the Continental GTC will feature a 6.0-litre twin-turbo charged engine. The company is planning to launch both the models by the first week of next month. The company, which imports its cars, has completely built units in India all ready for sale.

Bentley convertibles will provide a choice of powerful and refined open-top driving. Azure priced at Rs 3.8 Crore and Continental GTC at Rs 2.10 Crore will definitely add a new flavor to Indian roads.

Labels: Azure, Bentley, Continental GTC, Imported cars, Indian car market, launch in India, luxury cars

Hyundai PA to hit Indian roads first

The great sales target achieved by Hyundai motors in India has made a strong impact on the company. In order to show their interest in the Indian car market, the company has decided to launch its compact car “PA” first here in India. Indian roads will witness Hyundai’s “PA” first, a couple of months before it hits other countries.

The growth of the Indian market for compact cars and Hyundai’s massive growth in India for the past nine years has definitely made the manufacturer consider India as a first priority. India is also said to be one of the healthy markets for premium cars to compete, which is also a reason for the firm to choose India as the first place to see its code-named car.

Hyundai PA, after its launch, is expected to replace the Hyundai Santro and pose a sturdy competition to other compacts such as the Chevrolet Aveo and the Maruti Alto that are currently ruling the roost.

Labels: car manufacturers, Chevrolet, competition, Hyundai, Imported cars, Indian car market, Maruti, small cars

Mercedes flags off 'India Trail'

A unique plan to delve deep into the hearts of Indians, the Mercedes Benz pioneers of the luxury segment started on the India Trail today. A series of 7 cars will be participating in this Journey that starts from Pune. This drive will go through almost all parts of southern, western, and northern India.

Covering over 40,000 kms between today and Oct 10, Mercedes is trying to strengthen its solid bond between India and the Mercedes-Benz brand.

Showcasing the rich and diverse culture, heritage and natural beauty of India, the India Trail mainly focuses on the process of driving available Mercedes-Benz cars in the country. India Trial features the entire portfolio of diesel cars from Mercedes-Benz in India — S-Class, C-Class, E-Class, M-Class, the Bio-Diesel C-Class, and the Viano.

Labels: car manufacturers, cars, India, India Trail, Indian car market, Mercedes-Benz

New Audi A4 to be unveiled

An all-new Audi A4 is all-set to be unwrapped at the forthcoming Frankfurt Motor Show. The new A4 will sport a modern and stylish build.

It will carry-over the same huge grille but will have a new set of LED headlamps that will light-up more rapidly with less usage of power. The curved rear gives the car a unique look. The car shares the same platform called MLP (Modular Variable Platform) as that of Audi A6 and A8.

Compared to the current A4, the new A4 gets a longer wheelbase to efficiently balance the weight and increase interior space. With roomy and comfy interiors the new A4 might hit the Indian roads in a short time.

For the driver’s comfort, the new A4 comes with an adaptable steering system, which adapts to the driver’s driving style. For Indian roads, it is said that the car might adorn a 150 bhp diesel engine.

Labels: Audi, Imported cars, India, Indian car market

Chevy Aveo to go through a small makeover

The Chevrolet Aveo was mainly a disappointment when it was launched about a year back. In order to make it more stylish and draw in more buyers, the manufacturer has decided to give the existing Aveo a slight touch-up.

The new overhauled Aveo will make driving an easy task with enhanced gearshift and improved throttle response for a recovered acceleration. The cabin will undergo better insulation tactics to prevent external and engine noise and vibrations from affecting the occupants. The revamped Aveo will also get an additional exterior color - Ice Blue.

Maybe the Aveo will come into the light after all.

Labels: cars, Chevrolet, India, Indian car market

Hyundai Santa Fe in India by 2008

Hyundai is all set to launch its successful model Santa Fe in the booming SUV market in India. The SUV model is likely to hit Indian roads by mid-2008. Continuing its success in the competitive North American market, the Korean auto maker Hyundai would be bringing the Santa Fe to India with better refined comfort and driving features.

The Santa Fe comes in three variant levels, the GLS, SE, and the fancy Limited. An all-new 2200cc common-rail turbo diesel engine paired with a new five speed manual transmission comes standard in the new Santa Fe.

The Santa Fe lists out a series of impressive standard features. The Santa Fe comes with cruise control, power windows, mirrors, and doors, an electronic stability and traction control system, antilock brakes with brake assist and brake force distribution, safety gear with active head restraints, and an advanced airbag system. The Santa Fe starts with an MSRP of Rs. 8,63,000.

Labels: Hyundai, Imported cars, Indian car market, launch in India

AXE: A desi Hummer for the Indian army

Mahindra and Mahindra (M&M) is all set to roll out its first high mobility multipurpose-wheeled vehicle or the Humvee in India and Israel. Axe comes with amazing off-road capabilities and inspired military design cues borrowed from the popular Hummer model in the U.S.

M&M has made Axe as per the Indian army specifications. Axe will soon be tested by the Indian defence team. Mahindra’s Indian Axe is a diesel version that is well suited for Special Forces. The engines of the Axe will initially be imported and then later built in a plant in India.

The diesel version of the Axe is mounted with a 2.7-litre CRDi engine. The highlight of the Axe model is its high-tech all-wheel independent suspension system. Finally the time has come when the Indian Army’s Mahindra Jeeps will see replacement in the form of the new sporty Axe – a definite necessity for a country which has its automobile industry growing everyday by leaps and bounds!

Labels: Army, cars, Indian car market, Mahindra

Chevrolet Captiva soon to launch in India

To compete with the soft-roaders in India, the Korean-engineered all new Chevrolet Captiva will launch in India sometime late in 2008. From the large scale success of soft-roader SUVs like Honda CRV and Hyundai Tucson in the Indian market, General Motors India have decided to bring the beauty powered Captiva to India. CR-V comes with a petrol engine and Tucson comes with a diesel motor, but the Captiva will offer both petrol and diesel engines to occupy a larger share in the SUV market segment.

The Chevrolet Captiva is a sleek car with strong wheel arches and a sophisticated design. This stylish SUV is available with a 150 bhp 2.0L common rail diesel engine and a 2.4-litre Inline-4 petrol unit. The vehicle would boast of a high-end audio system, and 16-inch wheels. The interiors of the car will offer a commanding blend of style and strength with a seating for five to seven occupants.

The superior design also features cylindrical prism-type headlamps, LED type turn signal lamps, turn signal repeaters in the door mirrors, and snazzy flush fitting, pullout-type door handles. It will be priced in the range of Rs. 15-20 Lakh in India.

Labels: Chevrolet, Honda, Hyundai, Indian car market, launch in India, SUVs

Tata Elegante unveiled at Geneva Auto Show

Tata’s concept car - the Elegante sedan was unveiled at the 2007 Geneva Auto Show. The design-sophisticated Elegante is larger than the Tata Indigo sedan. It may come with an Inline-4 cylinder transverse petrol or diesel engine, or even a powerful V-6 engine.

Tata Motors, India's largest automobile company, is the only Indian automobile company to participate in the Geneva Auto Show regularly for the last 10 years. It was in the 1998 Geneva Auto Show that Tata unveiled the Tata Indica, which turned out to be quiet a success on Indian roads.

The diesel version of the new luxury sedan would come with a common rail direct injection turbo diesel engine with variable valve timing and capabilities to comply with Euro V emission norms. It will meet all European safety, crash-worthiness, and emission standards.The Tata Elegante features include a satellite navigation system, cruise control, integrated Bluetooth compatibility, heated mirrors, rain sensor, and front and rear parking sensors. Tata will also incorporate several of the design cues of Elegante in the forthcoming generation of Indica and Indigo cars.

Labels: Auto Show, automobiles, Indian car market, launch in India, Tata

The all new Rhino RX hit Indian roads

International Cars and Motors Ltd, has rolled out its first product Rhino RX in India. ICML is formed by Sonalik Group, the well recognized tractor manufacturing company. After Tata and Mahindra, this Himachal based company ICML is the next to turn out an MUV from India.

The current Rhino RX is powered by an Isuzu 2.0-litre diesel engine. It has a five-speed transmission and a direct turbo charged inter-cooled engine. It is available in three variants - S1, S2, and D1. Fitted with a Rover diesel engine, the new Rhino RX can attain a speed of 100 km an hour in less than 16 seconds. In styling cues it mostly resembles the Toyota Qualis.

The Rhino variants are available in both single AC and double AC models and come in a price range of Rs. 585,000 - Rs. 695,000.

Labels: Imported cars, launch in India, Mahindra, Rhino, Tata

Tata’s ‘1 Lakh Car’- It’s Real!

It’s been in the news for a long time now and if all the propaganda wasn’t enough to satisfy the skeptics, here’s one more that is probably more convincing. Tata Motors has officially announced a launch date for its 21st century miracle – June 2008. By the end of 2008, you’d probably see these moon buggies scooting around in every part of the country. Due to the insurmountable task of this creation and the unstoppable inflation, fears were that the ‘1 lakh car’ would end up being pricier say a ‘3 lakh car’. With the launch just a few months away, these fears are safely put to rest. The number is still close to 1, 00,000. This means $2275 for the dollar Indian and £1250 for the British desi. Enough said.

In India, owning a car has always been a dream ever since PAL produced the first one in 1946. In spite of the entry of several foreign auto makers with their bags full of flashy wheels, a car still remains a not-so-easily-affordable luxury and thus a decent status symbol, especially for those less affected by the economic boom or strong IT influences. BMW-driving farmers in or around Delhi don’t make the set.

Where there’s innovation, there’s competition! The other way around holds true as well. There’s never a dearth of thinkers in this world - Aristotle, Plato, Socrates, Copernicus, Newton, Einstein, and now can we say Tata. Everyone knows the importance of the mini car. An extra wheel on Bajaj’s auto-rickshaw would probably make a decent car and also beat the competition by miles. But that’s not what Tata is looking to make. "It will look like a car and have proper seating. Stretched canvas seats would not, for example, be acceptable. It would be all right for it to be a bit noisier than an ordinary car, but it has to be both simple and safe." says Ratan Tata, chief honcho at Tata Motors.

Power windows, heated seats, ABS, cruise control, a DVD entertainment system, and an MP3-capable audio system are probably NOT the features that will be standard. However, a 4-door spacious car with rack and pinion steering, a rear engine, 5-passenger capacity, and a gearbox is definitely good enough! It is easy to assume the car would be run by belts attached to guinea pigs on rollers. However, Tata will offer a 30 bhp 600cc petrol engine and a choice of either a manual transmission or a CVT automatic. A diesel engine option will also be available.

Will Tata’s ‘1 lakh car’ push the two-wheelers out of business? It would probably affect sales of high-end motorcycles selling a little below the 1 lakh mark. Tata’s dream project could take away a quarter of the market from the motorcycle makers. But low running costs and fuel efficiency will always play a major role in the Indian auto segment. Hence, the presence of two-wheelers cannot be ignored.

Labels: Bajaj, BMW, cars, competition, Indian car market, Indian low budget cars, One-Lakh Rupee Car, Tata

Hyundai experiences huge success

It has been success after success for the Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) after it set-up its business in India. It has achieved many significant milestones in its nine-year career in India. To add to the laurels, HMIL recently rolled-out its 1,500,000th unit in the month of September, 2007. Hyundai’s first car in India was rolled out in the month of September, 9-years ago.

The stir of HMIL’s first launch in India, the Santro, led to them launching the Accent, Elantra, Sonata, and Getz models that went on to continue ruling the market. Uncompromising quality and great service made it one of the most popular and well-liked brand in India. The Hyundai Getz pocketed the prestigious accolade of best-selling car in the year 2004. With the increasing popularity and demand, the nation’s major automaker is planning to expand its dealership across the country in order to meet the rising demand.

Labels: cars, Elantra, Getz Prime, Hyundai, India, Santro Xing, Sonata

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