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Friday, 30 November 2007
Well, Benz seems almost tired of importing cars from abroad to India. Mercedes-Benz has really been trying to step it up as an economical-luxurious brand auto maker in India. I am glad Merc has finally decided to assemble the next-generation E-Class at its Pune plant. BMW has chosen, instead, to market its high-end models in India as completely built-up (CBU) imports. This Merc dream is expected to come true in the year 2010. Almost about nine months after the international debut of the vehicle. We have seen most of the high-end luxury automakers leaning towards importing their cars as completely built imports. The difference here is that Mercedes didn’t want to leak out any sort of possible chances in exploring itself in the Indian market. Mercedes have already proved its success in assembling C-Class, E-Class, and S-Class lines in India Chasing the prototype is fun. What say BMW? Labels: BMW-Cars, Car-competition, Driving imported cars, Economical buy in luxury segment, Imported models built in India, Mercedes-Benz
As said in the previous blog, General Motors is finally getting on the right track. Committed, optimistic, and competitive in India. It seems as though the judges of JD Power Asia Pacific gave a quick inspiration to GM. The archetype swing in Indian automotive is about to happen. General Motors has opened the first car design studio in India. This week’s episode focuses totally on GM. This first car design studio has a capacity to employ 70 peoples by the end of this year. Also the main focus of GM will be on small car designing. Anyway, GM has caught my interest especially because of its commitment to small car manufacturing in India. It looks like it is deep into the importance of small cars and adding this new studio in Bangalore, General Motors now has a total of 11 such studios across the world. I am sure many of you are now waiting to hear about the product contributions from the Bangalore design studio. Speculations say by 2012 we can expect some hot little GM vehicles from Bangalore. This is surely a creative way to get people interested in Chevy designs. Labels: Automobile research and development, Chevrolet, General Motors, GM, Ratings on JD Power Quality Study, Special design unit in India
Thursday, 29 November 2007
The Maruti Suzuki saga continues. A rising star from Maruti Suzuki is in the news today. The first sketches of Suzuki’s new concept cars, Kizashi and Splash, have already started circulating the Web. Kizashi has churned out enough ‘Wows’ that seals its success in the future. Defining its knack for cranking out some brilliant concepts, Suzuki has added one more name for the future: A Star. The new A Star will be a compact car set to be unveiled at the ninth edition of Auto Expo in January 2008. A-Star is, in fact, the forerunner of Maruti Suzuki’s global compact car that will be launched in the future. Besides this the A-Star is likely to make its entry in all major auto expos across the world. With its enthusiastically designed new concepts, Maruti will soon join the elite club of concept cars displayed for the first time in India. While the profitable Maruti Suzuki India has been in the spotlight with its top rank in JD Power’s India Customer Satisfaction Index study. The creator of this splendid concept confirmed that the exported A-Star will come with a Suzuki badge and the domestic market will carry a Maruti badge on the rear. While the other details remain a mystery, we’ll have to wait for the official debut before our “wows” and “ohs”. Labels: Auto-Shows, Concept cars, Imported cars, Indian car market, Maruti Suzuki, New launch
India’s first electric vehicle Maini Reva is in the news again. With the eco-friendly characteristics REVA was first launched in India. It is available in three models: A/C, Standard, and Classe. REVA is currently testing the waters for a convertible model of their car. This means we will be seeing her brother Zephyr (model name) soon on Indian roads. REVA recently made news when it received $ 20 million in funding from various California investors. With more than 180 employees and 6,000 units, REVA is currently available only in this city but the company plans to roll out the car to other parts of the country soon. Zephyr gives the top speed of 65 km/hr and runs on a charge of 80% for 2.5 hours and with 100% charge it runs for 6 hrs. Labels: cars-India, Environment friendly engine, Maini, New launch, New look, REVAi
Wednesday, 28 November 2007
Why not us! Maybe this would be the reaction of GM when Chevy scored hat-trick at the Initial Quality Study released by automotive research firm JD Power Asia Pacific. In the statistics Chevrolet Spark leads with a score of 127, followed by Aveo, and Optra with 109 and 97 points respectively. Truth on time: that’s what I felt when I heard about this rating. Am sure General Motors is unquestionably on a roll. GM is coming out with some solid stuff that serves the complete needs of a Chevy owner. Even if Chevrolet cars must not be very well sealed in the Indian market, it has proved its quality in the studies. The JD Power Asia Pacific has ranked Chevy trios based on customer experience after two to six months of ownership. The major factors of the studies are the problems encountered, quality of design and the quality of production. In fact this is the first time three Chevrolet models have ranked highest in their respective segments in the survey. GM’s premium compact car Chevrolet Aveo U-VA and MUV Chevrolet Tavera topped second best in their respective segments. This is GM, world’s largest auto company by production volume, and now they are selling hotcakes in the Indian auto market. Labels: Car manufacturers in India, Car-competition, Chevrolet, GM, Ratings on JD Power Quality Study
Wishing for more high performance Sports cars in India? Low, wide, and fast. On Indian roads buyers of high-end high performance cars are almost nil. The few numbers of Lambos and Porsches in India are owned by people who can afford to make their own personal roads to ride these dazzlers. When Lotus, the British automakers, hinted the possibility of Lotus Elise’s launch in India, I was thinking about the possible drifts it can make in the heart of sports car enthusiasts. Lotus has the design motto "Performance through light weight". Even if you have never got behind the wheels of a Lotus, you have probably heard of it in Formula 1 races. Now, the company is looking for a partner to set up showrooms in Mumbai and Delhi. Sport Cars from the Malaysian national carmaker Proton is also expected to debut in India with Lotus. These efforts will keep India expecting even before the first Indian Grand Prix. Labels: High-end luxury sports sedans, Lamborgini, Launches in India, Lotus, Porsche, Sport Cars
Tuesday, 27 November 2007
Ashok Leyland is a big name in the heavy motor vehicle world. However, not many know that it’s Hinduja Group’s Flagship Company too. It plans to launch its next-generation range of hybrid trucks and buses in the upcoming years. The company is developing electronic shift-by-wire transmission technology and electronic-controlled engine management systems to take fuel efficiency to a new level. This move may have been triggered by Tata’s Hydrogen Bus initiative. According to sources, their aim is to enhance both automotive power and fuel efficiency in the to-be-developed new age vehicles. The electronic shift-by-wire transmission is expected to decrease the fuel consumption by 5 percent. The company is working on both electric battery and bio-fuel modes for its hybrid range of vehicles in India. Ashok Leyland has been doubling-up its head count at its technical centre in Chennai. It now has over 600 engineers and researchers, up from a mere 100 in 2003. Even in the R&D, it has been pumping in a lot of cash. Small cars and big cars, Indian car makers are not behind the race with their global counterparts; as for quality, we will have to wait and drive! Labels: Ashok Leyland, Auto market competition, Buses and Trucks, Hybrids, Launches in India, Tata
Tata Motors is looking to achieve compact dimensions for its current Indigo model. Tata has had to make sheet metal changes to the car, not an easy or cheap option. The Indigo’s extended wheelbase is the same as is the rear suspension, but the bumper and boot have been chopped to fit the four-meter length. Once Tata qualifies for this sop, it will mean a significant reduction in cost of around eight percent on the car’s ex-factory price. For the Indigo, this could work out to be around a Rs. 30,000 reduction depending on the model and Tata will have to pass on a fair amount of this to buyers, if it is looking to deliver better value. Probably the best part is that the shorter boot section will actually improve the Indigo’s fat-bottom looks. The Indigo Compact could change the entire dynamics of the entry saloon segment, impacting the Mahindra-Renault Logan, Maruti SX4, and various others. Labels: Car-competition, Compact sedans, Indian car manufacturer, Mahindra-Renault, Maruti Suzuki, New look, Tata
Monday, 26 November 2007
Here is another breakthrough in the field of science and technology. India’s first Tri-fuel hybrid car was launched in the capital recently. What’s more, to add to the news, the car has been developed by the students of a Mechanical Automation Branch of Amity School of Engineering and Technology (ASET). It’s their hard work and dedication that made this launch successful. This mesmerizing beauty runs on Petrol, LPG, and electricity. It serves the purpose of being economical as well as pollution free. The team of 10 students prepared the car with a budget of Rs 2.5 lakh. It can run at a maximum speed of 60 km/h using its internal combustion engine and 42 km/h using its batteries. A little slow we agree but the mileage balances it out. It has been tested successfully for more than 400 kms on Delhi roads to encounter city conditions. You can drive this small miracle for 35-40 miles on one-litre of petrol while on batteries it can run 80-90 kms on a single charge. This eco-friendly, zero emission, and low maintenance car is just what the Indian roads want. Maybe a manufacturer will pick up the design and have it ready for mass market sale soon. Labels: Car developed by students, Economical buy, Environment friendly engine, Hybrids, Low emissions, Tri-fuel technology
Driving an SUV has become a fashion statement. Among the bunch of SUV’s my favorite is the Nissan X-trail. It has been a best seller around the world. Nissan has done the right thing in bringing it to India and especially at the right time when my friend was planning for an SUV. Even if there are many more models compared to what we had a few years ago, there still aren’t enough choices in this segment. It is bound to give some stiff competition to the other SUVs. SUVs are meant to look imposing and rugged. The X-Trail does look like that to a certain extent. The front may look traditional, but that makes it aggressive. It may not look as modern and sleek as the Honda CR-V, but I am sure this styling definitely gives it a handsome and class look. As you move over to the side, the alloys grab your attention. The performance is better than many lighter and more powerful luxury sedans. It beats ALL its competitors in performance. The ride and handling is too good. But the only setback it has is in terms of pricing and if you don’t mind the price tag then, nothing should stop you from driving this cool car! Article submitted by Rohit MishraLabels: Cool cars in India, Expansion in segment, Honda, Nissan, SUVs
Friday, 23 November 2007
Buying a car is no more a luxury for Indians, it’s a necessity. For the global automotive industry, China is now a passé, India grabs all their attention. Last year, car sales in India totaled in 1.1 million with compact hatchbacks accounting for nearly three quarter of that. Time for Maruti, Tata, or Mahindra to pull up their socks, foreign automakers like Nissan, Hyundai, and Renault are aiming big in India. A recent auto survey says that the car market in India is growing at an average of 20 percent a year, outpacing even China. Nissan already made its entry to the Indian market with Renault SA of France and Indian automaker Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd and sold its Logan like hot cakes early this year. Japan’s carmakers are not behind in this race, the biggies like Toyota and Honda have already pronounced their presence here loudly. Maruti 800, Alto, or Santro says small car is always a big hit in India. Incited by Tata's super-cheap People’s Car next year, Nissan and Renault are projecting a car that may sell for as little as $2,500. And now India’s two-wheeler giant Bajaj and Renault are discussing the possibilities of ultra inexpensive cars. With this pace, bicycle and two wheelers may look like extinct products of the auto world. Labels: Bajaj, Car manufacturers in India, Car-competition, Honda, Hyundai, Mahindra, Mahindra-Renault, Maruti, Nissan, Renault, Tata, Toyota
Tata Motor’s Social Responsibility Index will now outsmart many players now. They initiated a green project with Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) for developing a 60-seater proto-model bus powered by gas by 2010. The bus will not run on an engine, but on electric power produced out of a mix of hydrogen and oxygen. It will use hydrogen fuel cell technology as against combustion technology which burns gasoline. The frame and chassis will be developed by Tata Motors, and ISRO will provide the fuel technology. The estimated cost of the bus will roughly be Rs 80 Lakh with per kg of hydrogen gas that will have running cost of around Rs 120 per kg or more. Like CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) enabled public vehicles helped in controlling Delhi’s pollution in the last few years, this new project by Tata and ISRO is a great step towards climate control and a small step towards scheming Green House Gases (GHG). Labels: Environment friendly engine, Hydrogen fueled busus, Tata
Thursday, 22 November 2007
Ok, am sure that we all know Maruti Suzuki is the top leading automaker in India. It’s a pretty exciting fact that no matter where you go in India, you can see a Maruti vehicle. From the last seven years Maruti Suzuki is the top ranked in JD Power’s India Customer Satisfaction Index study. Continuing in the first position this year Maruti scored 838 points out of 1000 and the most interesting thing is that Maruti was the only carmaker to score more than the industry average of 777 points. According to the JD Power’s India Customer Satisfaction Index study the factors contributing to overall satisfaction are the percentage of problems experienced in a car, service quality, and the user friendly service. Take a look at the maintenance services that Maruti is providing. I would say it is truly instant, easily accessible, and affordable. Also the problems experienced in Maruti cars are less. I personally have the opinion that Maruti Services have a very user friendly attitude. The brands that follow Maruti in the ranking are Honda, Hyundai, Toyota, and Ford. These automakers scored 765, 745, 740, and 737 points respectively, making themselves fit in the top four positions after Maruti. Compared to last years score these automakers showed vast improvement in their scores. Honda, Skoda, and Hyundai showed the highest improvement. Labels: Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Indian car market, Maruti, Maruti Suzuki, Ratings on JD Customer Satisfaction Index, Skoda, Toyota
It looks like new cars from BMW will be available for sale earlier than expected. BMW is seriously working on its product and dealership expansions in India. As part of this process, they announced the first launch in line is the Mini Cooper. BMW has plans to sell 1,200 cars that is an increase from the earlier target of 1,000 units. Mini will be the first small car to launch in India from this German automobile giant. Big or small BMW is BMW, so there won’t be any compromise in luxury. This expensive premium small car may cost somewhere around Rs. 15 Lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) in India. Mini was developed by the Rover Group and manufactured by the British Motor Corporation. Later BMW stripped itself from Rover in 2000 and started working on the Mini project as BMW Mini. India, where small car industry is on boom, will definitely have a high demand for the Mini Cooper. Labels: BMW-Cars, Imported cars, Launch of new car in India, Mini Cooper, Small Car, Small car market in India
Wednesday, 21 November 2007
The Indian SUV market is so competitive that the big boys make no delays. Tata has recently launched the new Safari to keep the existing demand of Safari going and the answer for that from Mahindra was quick, announcing the launch of the Scorpio 2.2L Eagle before the end of this year. Now it’s time to see GM defend itself in this hard core competition. GM has announced plans to launch the new Chevrolet Tavera. While competition is heating up, GM is right in the firing line as ever before with this limited edition Tavera. As reports say GM has no plans to launch an all new Tavera with a new engine. It will be a face-lifted version of the existing Tavera with additions in the exterior and interior features. This new Tavera will come out as a limited edition. This new Tavera has all sort of unique features. Despite the existing features of Tavera the face-lifted Tavera offers a larger grille with a bigger Chevrolet bowtie and an elongated air dam. Inside, a three spoke steering wheel replaces the existing two spoke and it gets a new instrument panel and a projected central console. The space above the glove box is now covered and is made as an additional glove box. I am sure the other SUVs in the market will line up soon with their new versions to continue to keep themselves in the market. Labels: Chevrolet, Improved interior features, Limited Edition launch, Mahindra, SUVs, Tata
ODYSSEY is a specialized Landrover that will spell the motto as “Get enlightened” when it come to India. We all know about the good faith of Landys in the H.H. Dalai Lama. I would tell you I am literally waiting for its reach in India on the coming weeks. The round the world premier is one of the most historic, most lively endurance races in the world. Be a part of the world tour with a team of 7 adventurous professionals. ODYSSEY will be the first foreigners to cross Myanmar (Burma) in over 50 years. From China, ODYSSEY will reach India and further to Pakistan. We can also expect these Landrovers passing through Dharamsala, India, after the special meeting with His Highness Dalai Lama. Get ready to see the ODYSSEY in India. Don’t miss it! Labels: Driving through India, LandRover, Odyssey, World endurance race
Tuesday, 20 November 2007
Indians love their small cars. In India small cars go well with the urban living conditions. Fulfilling the growing demands for small cars, Ford in collaboration with Mazda wants to launch a small car in India. However, Ford is still confused about the appropriate model for India. The options it is considering are KA and Mazda2. As the story goes, Ford is considering plans to import the Mazda2 kit from Thailand. Rumors say if it is the Mazda2, Ford will either use the existing Ikon or Fiesta platforms. The new KA is expected to roll out in Europe next year under the Fiat-Ford signature. Fiat’s 500 made under the platform of KA has formally launched recently. Mazda2 got more Wows when it was formally previewed at the Geneva motor show than the Honda Jazz and Fit. From Fords new plans, we can expect either the KA or Mazda2 or both swarming on Indian roads soon. Labels: Fiat, Ford, Honda, Imported cars, Mazda, New launch, Small cars market in India
Nissan wants to make a $3,000 car. Nissan recently confirmed that it is confident of being able to develop a $3,000 car in India with proposed partner Bajaj Auto Ltd. The Renault-Nissan alliance has been doing serious research for the production of this new $3,000 car. Tata quoted its One-Lakh-Car would be a rear-engine, 600-cc, four-door hatchback. A series of question is still in the air. What are the features the car will host? How can a car offer the essential safety measures with such a price tag? Will the engine and power be enough to carry four or in some cases five people? Nissan is confident about the $3,000 car’s production for India and Tata’s claim is still not disproved. Let’s wait and watch to see what new turns the Indian auto market will take. Labels: Bajaj, Car-competition, Indian low budget cars, Nissan, One-Lakh Rupee Car, Renault, Tata
Monday, 19 November 2007
Toyota dreams about the launch of its Yaris style big sedan Vios in India. Probably Vios is the most expected car from Toyota in India. Toyota has exhibited its 3rd generation ‘Vios’ at the recently held Bangkok motor show. I got the impression it’s a more ‘rough’ version of the Toyota Yaris. It is expected to launch at the end of this year or the beginning of next year. Vios has an all in one look of different sedans. This 3rd generation Vios has the same dimensions as that of the Honda City. It has a look similar to that of the Corolla. At the same time it has a Camry-like front fascia. Vios looks large and wide from the front with a large grille and large headlamps. The rear has similar taillights to the Honda City. Most probably, in India, the Vios will be available with a 1.5 VVT-i engine that produces a power of 109 hp. However, since the City, Corolla, and Camry have already captured the luxury sedan market in India, will Indians show a big interest in Vios is still the big question. Labels: Car-competition, Honda, Imported cars, Indian car market, Launch of new car in India, Luxury car segment, Toyota
Patience, the saying goes, is a high merit. The Indian car market has come a long way. We’ve seen so many brands - brands rise, brands fall, brands struggle and die and then even more brands being born. Now India is one of the fastest growing playgrounds of Global automakers. Hyundai is one of the most seriously working Korean automakers in India. As a profound effect Hyundai Capital Company, a sister concern of Hyundai Motors, is keen to enter the Indian car financing market. Meanwhile, the Hyundai Capital Company is studying the Indian market very closely. Hyundai Motor India Ltd. (HMIL) started production in India in 1996. The company recently launched its compact car – the i10, which is being manufactured at its Chennai plant. i10 is the first Hyundai compact car made in India with 94 percent Indianization. The company also has plans to manufacture 2.2 lakh units of i10, out of which 1.2 lakh units will be sold in the domestic market. The rest would be exported to Latin America, Africa, and Italy. However, there are certain policy guidelines in the country that put hindrances to the Korean company tapping the capital market in Kolkata. But the current scenario of Hyundai Motor India Ltd says India is definitely a market feast for Hyundai. Labels: Auto finance in India, Global players, Growth in Indian auto industry, Hyundai, Hyundai Capital Company, New i10 model
Friday, 16 November 2007
After one very successful year, BMW India echoes only one slogan “Thanks to the Indian BMW die-hard fans, we need more.” Here is today’s big story: BMW has just shown interest in expanding its dealers in India. It looks like BMW is moving forward with a systematic method of ruling the Indian luxury cars market. The German formula in India has great demand since its debut. The company has sold a total of 1,100 units till now and currently they have eight dealers in India. With the new expansion, the company is expected to up the dealer number by four in the coming few months. Main targets of expansion are Pune, Ahmedabad, Kochi, Kolkata, Surat, and Coimbatore. BMWs reply to the new entries from Audi and Volkswagen is cracking and this definitely promises to be an interesting tale. Labels: Audi, Auto market competition, BMW-Cars, Imported cars, Luxury car segment, New launch, Volkswagen
Heard about the recently unveiled concept cars in the New York Auto Show in April? Global automakers presented concept vehicles and a few were good enough to win the green signal at first sight. The Chevy Beat from GM was one of these winning vehicles. GM has hinted that Beat might be produced for the retail market. This concept car is considered as the next small car from GM to launch in India. In the show, GM showcased three mini concepts; Beat got the highest public support for its production idea of bringing to the market a right-sized car with a right-sized ecological footprint at the right time. This hot hatch is expected to sport a four-cylinder engine in India. GM has a pretty good demand in the Indian market. However, the Chevy Beat has to win its place and compete with its hatchback siblings - the Aveo U-VA and Spark. We may just see the back of one of these models soon or maybe GM is feeling hatch lucky in India. Labels: Auto-Shows, Chevrolet, Concept cars, GM, Indian car market, New launch, Small Car
Thursday, 15 November 2007
Hyundai must be celebrating the launch of the over-awaited brand new i10 and preparing to hype publicity about the soon-to-be-out Santa Fe. Honda must be whooping with joy anticipating the upcoming Jazz. Nissan is busily weaving its net with more Indian partners to debut more great cars. But check out what Tata is catching up with. Sure they are also busy launching new models and getting into joint ventures, but our Tata is now tracking its brand loyal customers through a new website called Watblog.com. Carazoo normally does not cover anything other than cars, but we are going to make a small exception here, because the news is something really, really special. It may well be the next very serious car sales action from the Tata brand. The intention behind this new website is to promote its new Indica Xeta model. Tata’s Watblog.com is offering its new Xeta fans some Video-Chop jobbies through a video contest. The theme for the contest video should express the tagline idea ‘You Gotta Be Dumb if You Miss the Xeta’. Howz that? We liked it. What do you say? Planning to participate? If you win you can be the owner of a brand new Tata Indica Xeta just like that! Labels: Carazoo, Honda, Hyundai, Nissan, Promotional campaign, Tata, Video-making competition
Honda is in the news talking about its plans to launch the new Civic Hybrid in India. I liked the new commitment of Honda as it took a step to launch hybrids as a flagship model in India, coz most Indians do support eco-friendly movements. It makes sense with fuel prices up so much, but I was really taken by surprise when a series of hybrids decided to launch in a flurry – I mean take the Toyota Prius Hybrid for example. I am quite excited over some of these neat ideas coming to India that will probably make a significant turn in the market. At this point I assume Honda has a pretty good market in India. Honda has already captured our market with its ‘buyers choice’ City, ‘luxurious’ Civic, and the ‘ready to go’ CR-V. From what I’ve heard, it is speculated that the Honda hybrids will be launched after the launch of their new hatchback “ Jazz”. Even if the price of the hybrids remains unfixed, it is expected that the Honda Civic hybrid cars will cost about Rs. 20 Lakh in India, similar to the Toyota. We can definitely expect a race to start in this new segment with Honda and Toyota leading the pack. Article Submitted by Anand SanjeevLabels: Driving imported cars, Environment friendly engine, Growth in Indian auto industry, Honda, Hybrids, Toyota
People often ask me “What type of a car is your dream car?” The answer is usually “A car with elegant looks and luxury and a brand name that does not need an explanation.” I think it’s the same with most people. Now here comes my question “What comes to mind when you think of Infiniti?” Luxury! Infiniti is one of the most luxurious cars that people dream about. These imported Infiniti models will soon assault the Indian market by the in-time idea from Nissan Motors. Infiniti, the Nissan-owned company, is planning to debut its Infiniti brand of luxury cars in India. Watch out Mercedes-Benz, Audi, BMW, Volvo, and Volkswagen. Upon introduction, the Infiniti will be presented in the luxury, small car, mid-sized sedan, and the commercial vehicle segments. The Infiniti versions are priced in the range of Rs. 15,30,000 - Rs. 23,40,000 in the US market. The Infiniti price tags for the Indian market are yet to be announced. Nissan is happy with the Indian market and its local partners. However there is no information about who the local partner will be for Infiniti. After the joint ventures with Bajaj Auto, Mahindra&Mahindra, and Ashok Leyland, who will be the next? Labels: Ashok Leyland, Audi, Bajaj, BMW-Cars, Imported cars, Launches in India, Luxury car segment, Mahindra, Mahindra-Renault, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Volkswagen, Volvo
Wednesday, 14 November 2007
The new Tata Safari Dicor 2.2 has hit the Indian roads and is no doubt ruling them too. It outdoes all other SUVs in the market and that too by a large margin. The new improved exterior and the plush interiors both help Safari Dicor 2.2 bag the top slot in its category. And with the sales figures on the rise I think this beast is here to stay. The main feature that distinguishes the Safari Dicor 2.2 from its variants and its competitors has to be the incredible engine that Tata motors has developed right from scratch. The engine unleashes mind-blowing power, torque and top speed that leave the competitors way behind in the race. This machine is equipped with top class safety measures. Right from ABS and EBD to air bags for the driver and the co-driver to the innovative Reverse Guide System, Tata Safari Dicor has it all. A perfect vehicle for the hardcore off-roaders, Safari Dicor 2.2 conquers all terrains. Priced at 11.5 lacs, this SUV is worth every penny. Article Submitted by Sam MalhotraLabels: Car manufacturers in India, New look, Safari DICOR, SUVs, Tata
Tuesday, 13 November 2007
Honda, after toying around with the idea of introducing a small car in India for a long time, has finally done it. The ‘Jazz’ or ‘Fit’ as it is known in some markets will hit the Indian road by the first quarter of 2009. ‘Jazz’ would directly compete with Suzuki Swift and Hyundai Getz. ‘Jazz’ is designed keeping in mind the practical requirements of a driver. It is expected to provide better mileage compared to the Swift and Getz. The Honda ‘Jazz’ sold in the American and European markets is equipped with a 1.5L Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control engine that pumps out 109 hp. This system is developed by Honda to improve the volumetric efficiency of a four-stroke internal combustion engine. But in any possibilities this will not be the engine specification for the Indian markets. Except for the small engine (which will be less powerful), the car will be at its best in terms of its exterior and interior styling. Honda is one of the top car manufacturers and is known world wide for its reliability and ace technology. Honda ‘Jazz’ cool!!!... was the reaction I got from some of the Honda fans I spoke to after they heard about the launch. This premium hatchback car will cost between 4.5 Lakh to 6.0 Lakh, priced slightly higher than other cars of the same class. However, the wait is far from over. Labels: Car manufacturers in India, Car-competition, Honda, Hyundai, Launch of new car in India, Maruti Suzuki, Small Car, Small engine
Tata and Fiat are in the news again; first it was with Tata Motors One-Lakh Car, then Tata’s recent partnership venture with the Italian Fiat Auto followed by their first joint venture project Grand Punto and Linea (B and C segment cars respectively) which will be launched by 2008. Today they are on this page because they are taking up another new step in the small cars segment. This new car is to be launched by 2010 and will be a possible replacement to the Palio. Since the Palio has been a slow mover compared to the other small cars of same class, Fiat-Tata decided to replace this model and have already started working on the developments of the new car. This ‘jugalbandi’ is currently concentrating only on the Palio petrol version (1.1 and 1.6 liter). The other versions like the Fiat Palio (diesel version) and Fiat Siena/Petra have been discontinued. Their joint network will definitely increase their distribution and servicing strength. Fiat has approximately 65 dealers and is planning to expand to a 100 more by 2008, when the new Fiat models will be launched. Let’s wait and watch for this new under-cover small car, maybe it will prove to be a lucky charm for Fiat! Labels: cars-India, Fiat, Indian car market, Launches in India, Small Car, Tata
Monday, 12 November 2007
Ford Ikon turns cool with its new Ikool music edition. It comes with an I-Pod compatible Sony X-plod MP3 player with high wattage rear oval speakers. That’s not it; this limited music model also spoils you with a few other chattels like a Nokia Bluetooth hands free kit, sporty leather vinyl seat covers, and an anti-theft system with remote entry and Ikool decal on front fenders. This ‘Josh Machine’ has dynamic and dashing looks and is one of the first cars in India to come up with different variants. This sedan comes in beautiful color choices such as Copper Rust along with popular colors like Paprika Red, Jeans Blue, Panther Black, Platinum, and Diamond White. This ‘Ikool’ model offers the most desired gizmos especially for music lovers like me giving it a cool and trendy appeal for youngsters. The sedan is attractively priced at close to Rs. 5.08 Lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). This handsome sedan with an alluring price can be yours as you rock and roll through the trance that is traffic! Labels: Cool cars in India, Ford, Ikool music edition, Improved interior features, Indian car market, New limted edition variant, Reasonably priced
No more stopping your car on the side of a road to make or receive a call, no more worries about a cop watching you using your mobile while driving. You can make or receive calls without taking your hands off the steering wheel. Sounds amazing doesn’t it? This is not just another accessory or another safety feature, this is a must have in today's busy work life and traffic situation. India Digital Life Style Distributor Private Limited (IDLDPL) has come up with the new generation Parrot -32000 LS- COLOUR PLUS car-kit. This kit allows you to use your mobile while you are driving. Parrot provides Bluetooth-enabled features, a colorful TFT screen with brightness and contrast adjustment, and a complete duplex audio system. With the Bluetooth connectivity, this car-kit synchronizes with the mobile phone address book and displays all the information like name, number, and also the photograph of the person you want to call (provided it is stored on your phone). This helps the driver concentrate on his driving even while talking through this device. This Parrot-3200 LS- COLOUR PLUS plays a vital role from the safety point of view. Parrot provides the latest Digital Signal Processing (DSP) technology called Beamforming for better sound clarity, which makes use of enhanced noise and eco cancellation technology along with two highly sensitive microphones. This identifies the background noise and eliminates them. This ‘Parrot’ is priced at Rs. 16,690/- only, which is not a huge price when compared to your safety and ease of mind. Labels: Hands-free talking facility, Indian car accessories, Safety features improved
Wednesday, 7 November 2007
Hyundai is pressing forward in news with its Indian-made compact i10. Here are a few more of my favorite things that caught my eye while checking out the i10 launch. Hyundai has confirmed that i10 will be stepping into 75 countries from India. Hyundai is trying to show that its trendy Indian i10 can appeal to a larger geographic. The initial details ascertain that India would be the sole production and export hub of this car. The figures of the export status of Hyundai are already good. The export sales of Hyundai cars have grown by 17.4 per cent, mainly due to the export of 113,339 units in 2006. Also, in the overseas sales, Hyundai has already surpassed the 300,000 export cars mark. It's easy to see Hyundai's head is caught in i10 these days. Apart from these developments, Hyundai is setting up one more plant near Chennai that will produce an additional three lakh units per annum. From this news we can expect a raise in the total production capacity of Hyundai by six lakh per annum by the end of 2008. Over optimistic or good foresight – you decide? Labels: Exporting cars, Growth in Indian auto industry, Hyundai, New i10 model, New launch, Small Car
Speculations have it that a smaller diesel engine variant of the Suzuki SX4 is coming to Indian shores to be sold alongside the Japanese automaker's current 1.9 liter SX4 hit. Suzuki has definitely recognized that more has to be done to expand its SX4 model and introducing a diesel variant is the ticket. According to sources, the new diesel variant will sport a Peugeot-sourced 87 bhp 1.6-litre engine. In addition to the modified 1.6-litre engine the vehicle will be linked to a five-speed manual gearbox. This is likely to power the SX4 1.6 DDiS with 0-62 mph in 12.2 sec and a top speed of 109 mph. Thus, it's imperative that Suzuki find a way to differentiate the two variants while maintaining the SX4's appeal. The new variant will be a two-wheel drive. However, the features provided are similar to those in the 1.6-litre petrol SX4. The standard features will be a manual air-conditioning, heated door mirrors, 16-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, front fog lights, and wheel-arch extensions. The key to success of this variant will definitely be its price tag. Wait and watch is what I say! Labels: cars-India, Diesel cars, Global players, Indian car market, Maruti Suzuki, New variant, SX4
Tuesday, 6 November 2007
He's undoubtedly the reigning king of Bollywood; Carazoo wishes Shah Rukh Khan a very happy birthday. This gizmo loving actor drives a bright red Pajero. The Mitsubishi Pajero was a Sport Utility Vehicle ( SUV) manufactured by Mitsubishi Motors in November 1973. In 24 years, it has gone through complete redesigns four times and now has a lower and wider stance compared to it predecessors. The fourth generation was introduced at the Paris Motor Show on September 30, 2006 with new interior styling. This was also accompanied by enhanced safety with dual-stage SRS front airbags as well as new side-impact and curtain airbags. This new Pajero has a lower center of gravity for better on-road handling manners, whilst the new body has over three hundred per cent more twisting firmness. However, what revolutionizes this Pajero is that it utilizes a unibody (a one-piece frame and body structure) construction, as opposed to the previous body-on-frame (box-ladder). This helps in providing a longer suspension stroke. Its fuel tank is now strategically placed between the axles for better safety. King Khan surely enjoys driving this widely-dreamt racing car, but his journey to this Pajero was not all smooth sailing, his first car was a Maruti Omni. Wish you luck SRK! Labels: Driving imported cars, Maruti, Mitsubishi, SRK, SUVs
GM, the world largest automaker “surprised” hundreds of Indian auto-fans during a party to celebrate GM’s 100 years of excellence in car making. To celebrate this grand occasion GM is here with an impressive surprise product that’s sure to strike fast in India. GM has just announced an all new limited edition variant of its sedan Chevrolet Aveo priced at Rs 6, 49,881 in India. In the past six months, General Motors has made some pretty good developments in its Indian variants. After attempting to expand the brand with the Aveo U-VA, your hot Chevy is back in the news with the newly launched Aveo limited edition. The limited editions claim to fame is its base price tag of Rs 5.95 Lakh. The new variant will be available with a 1.4-litre petrol engine. This new variant assures you a series of standard features like a face lifted instrument panel, leather upholstery, alloy wheels, audio system, remote keyless entry system, back seat armrests with cup holders, improved gear-shift, and a noise, vibration, and harshness protection system. I think it’s time for Chevy Spark fans, to make some changes to your Diwali wish list. Surprise your family with the right Diwali choice. Labels: Aveo, Chevrolet, Diwali celebrations, General Motors, Indian car market, Limited Edition launch
Monday, 5 November 2007
I’m sure everyone has heard of the new Skoda Laura Ambiente. I wondered what made Skoda launch a new variant when its two Laura variants are already in the market and not doing too well because they are pricier than the competitors. Skoda must have realized, because even though the Ambiente variant has better features compared to its sibling Laura variants, it has a lower price tag. The Skoda Laura is an impressive car. It is luxurious with leather upholstery, 4-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat, 16” alloy wheels, and an automated sunroof. However, in the Indian market, competitive pricing is a big factor to capture market sales. The new Ambiente lists out more safety features than the existing versions. In my opinion, however, instead of launching the new variant Skoda should have revised the price of the existing variants and improved on their safety and convenience features. Let’s wait and watch to see what awaits the future of the Ambiente. Labels: Car-competition, Economical buy in luxury segment, Indian car market, New variant, Skoda
Scheduled to be released sometime next year Ford is likely to facelift the Fiesta with a new look probably in the first quarter of 2008. Even with strong rivals such as Honda and Toyota, Ford is a rising hit in the Indian market. The Fiesta is a comfortably luxurious car that won Ford a record market in India. The Fiesta will get more and better standard features and a new exterior styling. Ford announced the Indian auto market as its first target. The global automaker gurus agree that the Indian vehicle market is the perfect place to compete. Definitely a right decision from Ford. The next Ford model to get a facelift is the Endeavour. Labels: Ford, Honda, Indian car market, Leading manufacturer, New Car, New look, Toyota
Friday, 2 November 2007
Mahindra, the Indian automaker, is considering exporting its SUVs to the US Market. In the US market, Mahindra is already a well established automaker. Speculations say the company is planning to launch two-door pickups, four-door pickups, and a sport-utility vehicle in the US by 2009. These plans are based on the growing market popularity of M&M in the US. Also rumors indicate that the company is planning to rename its compact SUV, the Scorpio, and pickups, one of which will be called the Appalachian. M&M quotes the Appalachian’s fuel efficiency as 30 miles per gallon in the city and as much as 37 on the highway. I can’t say I’m not a little surprised, because personally I like the name Scorpio rather than the new Appalachian. A sporty SUV that gets 30 miles per gallon in the city is going to be a big hit in US. India, in this process, may become the testing ground for M&M and it’s new SUV launches – that would be great! Labels: Exporting cars, Global market, Mahindra, SUVs, US Market for SUVs
After we’ve seen the ever more crowded Indian market’s new launches, here’s the time to see another attempt from Nissan Motor Co. to export Indian-built low cost cars. The autos are likely to enter with a price tag lesser than $5000 in the US. Sometimes you just have to say WOW. And that was my first reaction when I thought of comparing the high cost cars and the new attempt from Nissan. These low-cost cars are said to launch in the US by 2010. Measuring the scope of low-cost cars in the US, Nissan is planning to set a joint venture with Bajaj Auto Ltd, the second-biggest motorcycle maker in India. Nissan is good at meeting their expectations in almost all the countries they have entered till date. The Chief Executive Officer, Carlos Ghosn said that this would be a major impact on the US car market - the worlds biggest. The problem is that the vehicles that are going to be exported from India have to be further modified to meet US safety and emissions standards. We just have to wait and watch for the outcome, because if this works then we will have the same cars sold here in India and no one can say no to a safer car! Labels: Bajaj, Exporting cars, Global market, Leading manufacturer, Low emissions, Nissan, Safety features improved, US Market for small cars
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