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Wednesday, 31 October 2007

Pre-owned car industry to get a boom in India

What you say about used cars? How will it be if you buy a used Mitsubishi Lancer or a used Ford Icon and alter it with sporty designs? Will it look sporty if you put a nice spoiler on the rear of your car and cut short the ground clearance? Go Vroooom. The Indian youth needs more designs rather than the usual black or white or red. It’s time to get your dream cars in India’s used car market at an affordable price. The global auto majors are looking for potential buyers of their vehicles in India’s used car market.

India’s used car market has had a lone voyager in Maruti and its TrueValue program. Now, Honda’s Auto Terrace, Toyota You Trust brand, Hyundai’s Hyundai Advantage, and Ford’s Ford Assured used car programs have entered the Indian car market. Statistics say that the used-car market counts for one million units across India. This industry is expected to grow bigger faster than in past years.

Here is the current scenario of the pre-owned cars industry in India. Toyota’s You Trust venture is all set to roll out at leading dealerships across the country by October end 2007. Honda is ready with their new team trained to focus only on its used-car program called Auto Terrace. The company’s used-car program is currently running in a small way and is expected to be a success soon. Ford Assurance and Hyundai Advantage programs are also doing competitively well in the industry. Last, but definitely not the least, our car guru Maruti is at the top with more than 90,000 used cars units sold through its True Value network.

Labels: Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Maruti Suzuki, Mitsubishi, Programs for used car sales, Toyota, Used car market in India, Used cars

Welcome the 2010 New Car from Nissan-Renault-Bajaj

Liked the news of coming 20 models in India for the year 2008? Maybe you’ve been following the filter of information flowing out of our portal about the coming 2009 models also. The world of automakers has booked the year 2009 as well. Let’s check the year 2010 now. We're finally starting to list out some solid information on the 2010 year models.

Hooray, here’s the first one. The car majors Nissan and Renault, along with their local partner Bajaj Auto have confirmed the plan to launch a US $2500-car in India. Howz that??? We have seen Renault’s strong relationship with another local partner Mahindra. I think it’s from M&M that they learned the importance of working with local partners. Now it’s Bajaj to ride Nissan and Renault’s new car in India in 2010. The names of the cars are yet to be known.

The rumor is that the talks have been going on among them on the car from early 2007. The trios dream to manufacture a $2500 (1 Lakh) car felt possible in India. But they encountered major hurdles in exporting the vehicle to markets such as Europe, China, Brazil, Mexico, and United States. As India is turning to be a die-hard play ground of global automakers for small cars, the trios decided to fully concentrate on making the car for India and making it competitive.
Will catch up with you with more 2010 launches in India. Check out our Blogs and Articles section at Carazoo for auto news before it happens.

Labels: Bajaj, Launches in India, Mahindra, Mahindra-Renault, New Car, Nissan, One-Lakh Rupee Car, Renault, Small Car

Honda CR-V Releases New Variant

Your sporty Honda CR-V is on its way to introduce a new CR-V variant in India.

Honda is now learning that CR-V can rule the Indian SUV market if they launch a new affordable variant through systematic chipping from the existing model. Rumors say the soon-to-be launch smaller version will displace the 2.4 liter, 150 hp, engine with a 2.0 liter, 161 hp, engine. Honda quotes this new engine as the most popular engine option for the CR-V globally.

The reduction of power and performance will be marginal in the new version but the fuel economy will improve. The transmission is expected to be manual. These reductions will allow Honda to bring down the price of its Base variant by Rs. 40,000. The current CR-V has a price tag between Rs. 17.9 and 18.6 Lakh, while the new variant is likely to get priced between Rs. 17.5 – 19 lakh. It’s obvious we expect a tough competition between Honda CR-V and all the new SUVs that will flock to the Indian car market in 2008.

Expect the new CR-V to be in dealerships by the end of this year.

Labels: Car competition, Car sales, Honda, Indian car market, New variant, SUVs

Renault happy to ride with Mahindra

Wide body is the proud Mahindra-Renault Logan’s trademark and slogan. After its successful market launch of Logan in India, Renault found Mahindra as a perfect partner to sell more models. Sometimes it’s more interesting to hear that Indian automakers can bring more output for foreign automakers like Renault. As a response to its success Renault recently announced that it will stick to its agreement with M&M during for the entire duration of its expansion in India.

Renault’s continuing quest to completely dominate the Indian market will see the launch of second generation car models from Mahindra-Renault like Kangoo, Megane, Lagune, and Clio in the 2008 model year in India.

Logan is currently posting record profits month over month. Watch out the upcoming models from Renault you can see a Mahindra-Renault signature on the rear.

Labels: Cars in India, Growth in Indian auto industry, Indian car market, Launch of new car in India, Leading manufacturer, Mahindra, Mahindra-Renault

Monday, 29 October 2007

Hyundai finally set date to launch code named vehicle “PA”

Our prediction that Hyundai PA will be unveiled before Diwali has come true. Finally, the Korean auto major has decided to launch the codenamed car on 1st of November. PA's true name is i10.

i10 is designed to bridge the gap between the Getz Prime and Santro Xing. Now, we have varieties to choose from. i10 is expected to take Hyundai sales statistics to even greater heights. Indians being compact car lovers, the company has chosen a right place for its launch. i10 is expected to be priced between 3.5-4 Lakh - definitely a worry for other competitors.

Yet to be launched, i10 comes with a feather in its cap. This is a first compact car to come with a sunroof. Apart from all other striking features, this is one of the most arresting features that show-off luxury for a really small amount.

The car is said to wear clothes of ten different colours. Diwali is around the corner and if you have been waiting for the right car all this time, then i10 might just be your answer.

Labels: Car sales, Hyundai, Launch of new car in India, Leading manufacturer, Small Car

Tata Indigo Marina gets two more variants

Tata extends the variant list of Indigo Marina by adding two more variants - GSX III and SX III. GSX is a petrol version and SX is a diesel version. GSX is priced at 5, 80,645 Lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) and SX is priced 6, 32,134 Lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). With the addition of two more variants, Indigo Marina swanks of seven variants altogether.

Both the variants get a host of luxury, safety, and convenient features that include height adjustable driver’s seat, rear center armrest, VCD player MP3 with headrest mounted LCD screens, power windows, audio warning for key in-door open and key out-door open and headlamps on, rear defogger, and double foldable rear seats. The rack and pinion steering wheel with collapsible steering column is standard.

The engine is coupled to a 5-speed manual transmission. The diesel engines can deliver 69 hp of power and the petrol engines give-out 85 hp. With the festival of lights fast approaching, the company has added new variants at the right time.

Labels: Growth in Indian auto industry, Indian car manufacturer, Indian car market, New variants, Tata

Saturday, 27 October 2007

Plug-into Green Toyota Prius soon in India

There is no denying that the most successful hybrid car in the world is Toyota’s lucky number hybrid Prius. Toyota Prius have given Toyota a wonderful environmentally-friendly image. In the global market, Toyota is openly supportive for any "green" legislature. Rumors had indicated that Toyota Prius will soon be arriving India. Recently Toyota has confirmed that it could be the Prius Hybrid that the Japanese giant is thinking of releasing in India.

The Toyota Prius is the best selling hybrid in the U.S. This Japanese automaker has already been committed to hybrid vehicles and its consistency has swept it to the top in the long list of auto manufacturers. Many brands have started to offer hybrid versions of vehicles with high fuel efficiency. It is hybrids that are the top choice over other types of fuel-efficient vehicles – thanks to Toyota.

I had already done quite a bit of research on Prius and found high-end features like the CVT (continuously variable transmission) and the Hybrid Synergy Drive technology. So if you love green, the environment or your pocket, and are in India then hold your breath for a greener tomorrow! Prius will be sold with a sticker price of US $20,000, or nearly Rs. 8-Lakh – this is as good as it gets!

Labels: Environment friendly engine, Growth in Indian auto industry, Hybrids, Imported cars, Indian car market, Launches in India, Leading manfacturer, Top of the auto industry, Toyota

New Skoda Laura Ambiente for Indian Market

Skoda is considered as one of the luxury car brands in India. After all, with their price tags, it is difficult for a common man to get behind the wheels of a Skoda. Here’s today’s big story: Skoda has just announced a new variant called Ambiente for its Laura series. The unveiling took place last Wednesday in Mumbai.

The car, which looks very similar to the existing Laura variants, offers more standard safety features. Buyers now have other reasons to buy the new Ambiente besides the superior features. The most fascinating thing about the new Ambiente is the truly affordable price. Your Skoda Laura is now available at a 13 Lakh ex-showroom price tag. Sign up for the new 13-Lakh Ambiente to receive special safety features like two airbags, a traction control system, Rear parking sensors with Parktronic display, and automatic wipers with rain sensors.

Ambiente has started garnering much media attention. If you are planning to get an economically savvy luxurious car, Ambiente is the car for you.

Labels: Economical buy, Indian car market, Launches in India, New variant, Safety features improved, Skoda

Friday, 26 October 2007

Alfa Romeo will soon challenge Audi, Merc, and BMW in India

There has been considerable debate over the last few years regarding the best high-end sport-luxury brand car available in India. It was widely thought that the big three brand competitors are BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi. Now, I’d like to take a moment to welcome our new competitor, an all new sport-luxury brand from the Italian carmaker Fiat.

Here’s the name you’ve been waiting for: the Alfa Romeo 159. In the 2008 Auto Expo, which is going to be happening very shortly, Fiat is going to announce the debut of Alfa Romeo and the date to import it to India in the first half of 2008. Current information suggests that the Alfa Romeo will be available at selected Fiat dealers in India. Well, from what I understand, Alfa’s engine transplants will add either a 2.2 liter engine or a 3.2 liter V-6 engine that will make a very hearty 260 to 730 horsepower respectively. Fiat has confirmed that the entry prize of Alfa will be 28 Lakh.

Let’s gaze at the history of Alfa. Alfa was the first car that introduced the trend for twin spark plugs in the 1960s. The Alfa 156, launched in 1997, was the first car that was powered by a common-rail diesel engine. All this and the car is still competitively prized. As far as we know it’s the cars endure in Indian road conditions and the company service back-up that will eventually decide the success of the new ‘Romeo’ in India.

Labels: Audi, Auto market competition, BMW, Fiat, Imported cars, Indian car market, Mercedes-Benz, New launch

Hyundai to debut a new D-segment sedan in 2 years

Hyundai stands for cars with clever technology and affordable prices. As the brand continues to liquidate some of its sporty assets from its mid-premium sedan Elantra, inside sources reveal that it is planning to introduce a series of new vehicles of which PA is just a start. The latest news is Hyundai's new plan to debut a big luxury sedan for India in 2 years.

Current information suggests that the brand is currently working on around four brand new vehicles. The upcoming models from Hyundai are PA, Santa Fe, i-30, and the new premium sedan D-segment. Hyundai is getting ready to shake up the new global sedan model developed and produced in India. Though the model name is yet to be announced, the company has confirmed that the proposed D-segment car, will hit the market in a "couple of years". The yet to be named vehicle is said to be under development with a highly competitive prize.

A couple of questions are still in the air, such as the car will be mated with which type engine? What will be the performance? The new model will compete with which models? Well, we’ll have to wait for further announcements from Hyundai, but the wait may not be long!

Labels: Hyundai, Indian car market, Launches in India, Luxury car segment, Luxury sedan, New launch

Wednesday, 24 October 2007

Over 20 cars in India on bench for launch in the year 2008

Indian metros are overflowing with vehicles from various Indian and Foreign manufacturers. However, the demand for more and better choices is not yet satiated. Major car manufacturers are launching more and more cars to attain the top position in this jungle of automotives. As newer cars release, people expectations also rise.

Price and mileage are two important aspects that the majority of Indian’s focus on. However, no one like to compromise on quality either. Almost all the manufacturers are trying to meet these expectations. Tata is first in line with its One-Lakh People’s Car. Other manufacturers like Maruti Suzuki, Chevrolet, Hyundai, and Honda are all getting ready to launch passenger cars as early as next year, so that they can stay alive in the competition.

India is emerging as one of the most exuberant marketing hubs for cars of all sorts. Manufacturers have come to realize that the smart buyer is measuring all choices and therefore the more choices one manufacturer provides, the better the chances of that manufacturer surviving in this jungle. GM’s recent foothold in India has made a positive impact and the manufacturer is keen on turning India as one of its marketing centers.

This sudden frenzy to capture the Indian market will see the launch of over 20 new cars early next year. It is a real dilemma for customers who had planned for a car by the end of the year. With most of the cars set to be launched in a few months, it is difficult to decide whether we should wait for the new launches or buy something which is already in the market.

As far as my opinion goes, I would definitely wait! The more the cars in the market, the better the deals I get. For all I know, I could even decide to go for a model that already exists, but due to market competition, it will cost me much lesser then than it will now. Why settle for a prawn when you can get a seafood platter for the same price?!!

Labels: 2008, Auto market competition, Cars in India, Chevrolet, Growth in Indian auto industry, Honda, Hyundai, Imported cars, Indian car market, Launches in India, Maruti Suzuki, Tata

Maruti Zen - a favorite in Sri Lanka

Maruti is not only famous in India it is also very popular in the island country Sri Lanka. Maruti-Suzuki Zen has raced ahead of all other auto majors in Sri Lanka to secure the top position in Sri Lanka’s auto industry.

The only Maruti dealer in the country, Associated Motorways, has placed huge orders to meet the great demand of the people. Though Sri Lanka takes a back seat in the auto market, its market has seen wonders when it comes to the sales of the new Zen version. It is because of its performance, style, and agility. Sri Lankans, according to the treaty signed by the Indian and Sri Lankan government, are saved from heavy taxes for the cars imported from India.

Now, that Zen has secured its place in Sri Lanka, Maruti-Suzuki is aiming at other Asian countries. There is no doubt, our Maruti is going global.

Labels: Exporting cars, Indian car manufacturer, Maruti Suzuki, Sri Lankan auto industry, Top of the auto industry

Honda willing to carry-on hybrid sales in India

Honda Motors are holding serious talks with the Indian government to establish rules for hybrid vehicles to be sold in India. Honda is interested in gasoline-electric hybrid cars that meet great expectations of mileage.

India is currently one of major auto markets, but it has no definite set of rules and regulations when it comes to hybrid vehicles. If the Indian authorities give the green signal, Honda will introduce its Civic hybrid, which is selling like hot-cakes in North America, Europe, and Japan. Once the talks are over, Honda will decide on when to launch hybrid cars in India.

Because Indians are most concerned about the price and fuel economy, hybrid cars will be an answer to all our prayers and I bet the environment will be pretty happy too! Hybrid cars give 80% better mileage, without compromising on performance, compared to conventional gasoline cars. Emission is also comparatively low.

Subsidies for hybrid cars are a must as they cost more than the usual petrol and diesel cars. Honda is trying to work on this front. Once Honda gets permit to launch their hybrid vehicle, all other manufacturers will think of doing so. The more hybrid vehicles run in India the lesser the pollution.

Labels: Environment friendly engine, Government approval pending, Growth in Indian auto industry, Honda, Hybrids, Imported cars, Indian car market, Launches in India, Leading manfacturer, Low emissions

Global players planning to test their vehicles in India

Global car manufacturers Honda, Toyota, Nissan, and BMW are negotiating with the NATRIP (National Automotive Testing and R&D Infrastructure Project) to benefit from testing the robustness and performance of their vehicles intended for the International market.

NATRIP gives an exact picture of the performance of the vehicles invariable of climatic conditions. Testing costs are low in NATRIP compared to other vehicle testing agencies. As international car manufacturers are probing ways to make their products a success, testing cars in India will be one of them, because it costs significantly low. As piracy issues are thronging in China, companies think India is the best base to test their up-coming vehicles.

NATRIP is planning to hire more brains for suggestions regarding the quality of equipments that need to be fitted in the future vehicles. The agency is also working hard to support the Indian component makers in the global markets. NATRIP has its centers in Chennai and Pune. With the growing demand, NATRIP is set to open branches in Indore, Silchar, and Rai Bareily.

Labels: BMW, Honda, Imported cars, Indian auto testing unit, International auto market, NATRIP, Nissan, Toyota, Vehicle performance testing

Tuesday, 23 October 2007

GM India celebrates raising car sales

GM India touched its highest sales statistics yet, in India. Since General Motors introduced its vehicles to India, this is the first time the firm has enjoyed a profit with such high margins. General Motors cruises ahead of its competitors with the extremely affordable Chevy Spark and the value-for-money Aveo UV-A.

GM has sold more than two times the units it sold last year in the same period. General Motors India for the first time beat Ford Motors India in the market share.

With the festive season on in India, GM has cut down the price of Spark by over rupees 50,000/-, which is also one of the reasons for the auto major to enjoy boosting sales. Because the offer is available only for a limited period, no wonder people are rushing to GM dealers spread all over the country.

If General Motors consider extending the offer for another few days there is no doubt that our pavements will be full of GM brands.

Labels: Chevrolet, Ford, General Motors, Indian car market, Rising sales, Small Car

Mahindra Scorpio- most appealing SUV

Right from when I laid my eyes on Mahindra Scorpio, it has stayed as my most favorite affordable SUV. Its macho looks with wide headlamps and tough tyres, and a most interesting taillight design that climbs-up all the way to the roof changed the way people looked at SUVs. The ad which shows the vehicle wading without any hassle in all terrains is really magnificent.

On the inside it has plush interiors that would rival any sedan. It has a tilting steering column, an air conditioning system, power steering, power windows, an audio system, and safety features including tubeless tyres, fire resistant upholstery, anti-roll bar, and a collapsible steering column.

The 5-speed manual transmission along with the SZ CRDe 4 stroke engine helps the vehicle attain a power of 115 hp on India roads. The performance is complemented by independent front and rear suspensions. What more can one ask to cruise on Indian roads.

Labels: Indian car manufacturer, Indian car market, Mahindra, New look, Scorpio

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