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Friday, 12 March 2010
 Honda has launched its new Accord with 3.5-litre V6 engine and the most ‘electrifying’ feature, among others, is the electric sunroof. This premium sedan from Honda had it all in its previous versions and now, on customers’ demand, it has included one more feature of attraction. Talk about customer care! Adding to the luxurious feel of the new Accord are Ambient Light and Footlight that will enable the passengers to see through the controls without any confusion. The new Honda Accord has also got two keyless remote entry systems that will further enhance the convenience quotient of the car. Honda Accord 3.5L V6 has got some technological advances too. It will now feature a Bluetooth interface for mobile phone connectivity. Honda Accord is powered by a 3.5L V6 i-VTEC engine which can generate 271 bhp and 339 Nm of torque. This makes it the most powerful in the history of all Accords ever built and provides a driving experience that is on par with luxury vehicles from higher segments. The VCM system, featured in the V6 3.5 litre Accord, gives it an edge because of its unique combination of fuel efficiency and maximum power. The Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system can switch between six-, four- and three-cylinder combustion depending on the driving conditions and delivering maximum power while still maintaining economical fuel consumption. The Active Noise Control system has been designed to provide high levels quietness and smoothness while cruising on all six cylinders. Honda Accord 3.5L is available in four different colours including Tafeta White, Bold Beige Metallic, Crystal Pearl Black and Alabaster Silver. The complete Accord range will be available at the price of (Ex-showroom Delhi) Rs. 18.5 lakh for 2.4 litre MT, Rs.19.3 lakh for 2.4 litre AT and Rs 26.15 lakh for 3.5 litre V6. Labels: Honda, Honda-Accord, Honda-Accord-with-sunroof, New-Honda-Accord, New-Honda-Accord-Colours, Variable-Cylinder-Management, VCM
Tuesday, 12 January 2010
 Guess what? The concept of the small car “ new small” which Honda had displayed in the Auto Expo 2010 is scheduled to be launched in 2011. If this is news that you think you already knew, check this out. The small car of Honda’s will have around 80 per cent of its components made in India. Now that’s a news that we bet you might not have heard of right? Honda also expects that the small car that it will produce in India, sell as many as units as its best seller ‘ City’ does. "Our new small car, to be launched in 2011, will have a rate of around 80 per cent in localisation of components," Honda Siel Cars India Director (Marketing) Tatsuya Natsume told reporters during the 10th Auto Expo in New Delhi. The small car from Honda will be rolled out from the company’s plant in Greater Noida and Honda will take all measures to meet the demands of the customers as soon as the car is launched. Honda also is looking to increase the use of local components of its existing models in India to around the same percentage. While its City and Jazz cars have around 75 per cent localisation of components, the Civic has 71 per cent and the Accord 28 per cent. Labels: Auto-Expo-2010, Honda, Honda-Accord, Honda-City, Honda-Civic, Honda-Jazz, Honda-Small-Car, New-Car-Launch
Tuesday, 5 January 2010
The seven-day 10th Auto Expo this week could attract around 20 lakh visitors. This sum certainly is higher than those at similar events held last year in Shanghai and New York as per the Expo organizers. This Auto Expo 2010 is going to be the mammoth automobile vent as about 2,100 participants from 30 countries will participate in the event, which will boast of over 1.25 lakh square metres of exhibition space. Last year Shanghai attracted a crowd of six lakh visitors while New York drew 12 lakh visitors for its Auto show. The Delhi Auto Expo was first introduced in 1986 and since its inception lots of things have changed. Despite a clash of dates with the Detroit show, traditionally the biggest auto industry gathering, the Auto Expo event in Delhi has grown in prominence aided by the shifts in the global automobile landscape. According to Pawan Goenka, president of Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) speaking in the curtain raiser for the event said, ‘We will have 40 percent more visitors this time and will have over 10 global launches and 50 other launches with all well-known auto makers taking part.’ He also added that the organizers were expecting around two-million visitors. The event which began today will be formally inaugurated on Jan 7 by Heavy Industries Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh and Commerce Minister Anand Sharma. The event is being organised by SIAM, Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA) and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) at Pragati Maidan here. The expo will witness the largest-ever overseas participation with companies from Canada, China, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Spain, Taiwan and Britain participating. Luxembourg will be the new entrant at the expo in 2010. This time commercial vehicles, two-wheelers and other variety of automobile accessories will also be on display. This year will mark a major change in the routine. Honda and Toyota are displaying small car concepts which will be unveiled globally at the Expo. That’s a first for both and although some of their alternative concepts were shown elsewhere, the Delhi show comes a close second. In terms of scale too, the event has come a long way. The next show happened in 1993 when the first wave of cars from Daewoo, Hyundai, Ford and GM were about to roll out on Indian roads. Japan’s Toyota unveiled the Etios concept small car that has been especially designed for the Indian market and will be seen on roads by 20l1. Likewise, German carmaker Volkswagen also is on cloud number nine to showcase its much-awaited super-mini Polo. Others like the US-based car maker General Motors will add a radically different looking car named Beat which incidentally was launched in India yesterday to its existing line up of compacts here. Honda, too, will reveal a new model. Other displays at the event will include a wide range of new and locally designed and developed auto components. Many of these component designs have been patented in the country as well as overseas. The auto sector is betting big on the event as makers of luxury cars are increasingly looking at making India a sourcing hub for components, besides using more local components in cars for the domestic market. ‘The Auto Expo will act as a platform for both Indian and foreign business visitors where they will have ample opportunity to see products on display as well interact with officials of component companies at the venue,’ ACMA president Jayant Davar said. The Indian automotive industry has a turnover of more than $18 billion (Rs.90,000 crore) and expects to gain significantly through new tie-ups, partnerships and marketing initiatives duringthe event. India’s 15-18 per cent annual growth and its nearly 2 million units estimated sales this fiscal make this the fastest growing market after China. The focus of autodom has moved to Asia, and the event is a beneficiary the organisers added. Labels: Auto-Expo-2010, Chevrolet-Beat, Honda, Toyota, Toyota-Etios, Volkswagen
Thursday, 3 December 2009
It seems like Hyundai is on a roll. One year after promising to become the leading manufacturer in fuel economy, Hyundai delivered by topping the latest U.S. Environmental Protection Agency fuel economy report. Hyundai passed all major manufacturers in Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) including traditional leaders like Honda and Toyota.
The report demonstrates the effectiveness of Hyundai's value-driven fuel-efficiency strategy, which focuses on the intelligent application of cost-effective technologies. The report also substantiates Hyundai's leadership in the race to achieve the US government-mandated 2016 CAFE standard of 35.5 miles per gallon.
"Our thoughtful application of cost-effective, fuel-efficient technologies has helped us achieve our goal of leading the industry in fuel economy ahead of schedule," said John Krafcik, president and CEO, Hyundai Motor America. He also added that Hyundai hoped to extend that leadership with the launch of our new direct injection, turbocharging and lithium-polymer hybrid technologies, all of which will be a part of the 2011 Sonata lineup launching early next year.
Hyundai is aligning global R&D resources at its engineering centers in California, Michigan, Korea, India and Germany to develop the Blue Drive technologies needed to achieve fuel efficiency goals. Under the Hyundai Blue Drive strategy, technologies such as direct injection, turbo-charging, hybrid drive systems and a number of others will all play larger roles in powering future models to offer consumers lower emissions, enhanced performance and more miles per gallon.
Carazoo.com here gives the list of car makers who have scored high in producing fuel-efficient vehicles according to Environmental Protection Agency Fuel Economy Reports :
Group Fuel Economy (mpg)
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Manufacturer Overall (Cars/Trucks)
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Hyundai 30.1
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Honda 29.7
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Volkswagen 29.6
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Toyota 29.4
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Kia 28.0
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Nissan 27.2
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BMW 26.9
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Ford 25.7
---- ----
General Motors 24.5
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Chrysler 23.2
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Labels: BMW, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Nissan, Toyota, Volkswagen
Wednesday, 2 December 2009
Hyundai though is flying its flag high in the automotive world after the recession; it had to take a bow when it came to the ever competitive Japanese auto market. There is a surging demand for Hyundai vehicles elsewhere in the world, but the red-faced Hyundai Motors had to pull out from the Japanese scene citing poor brand recognition and high import duties on its cars that made it very expensive in the highly competitive Japanese auto Market. Hyundai which has in total 46 dealers in Japan has finally decided to say sayonara to the Japanese market. Hyundai just sold 800 units in 2009 and overall just 15,095 units since its entry to the Japanese market in 2001. Japan, a country where patriotism runs very high, people have given thumbs down for any foreign operators operating in the country and have welcomed the local brands with open hands where there is a huge fan following for these brands. A visibly frustrated spokesman of Hyundai, Oles Gadacz, is of the opinion that there is no scope for them in the brand conscious Japan unless they were Gucci or BMW. Hyundai, which is South Korea’s Numero Uno automaker and arguably the only company in the world to have shown an increase in sales from 2008 levels, has finally called it quits and intends to focus on its commercial vehicle sales in Japan and other emerging markets like India and China. Japan is one of the toughest markets in the world where brand value matters and not to mention intense competition from local manufacturers from the likes of Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Mitsubishi, Mazda, Subaru, Suzuki, Daihatsu etc and not to mention the imports. That is one heavy competition out there. However, Hyundai’s sales have taken a massive leap in India though. Labels: Daihatsu, Honda, Hyundai-Motors, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Subaru, Suzuki, Toyota
Friday, 20 November 2009
Of late, India has cemented its place as the hottest destination for auto makers across the world. Car manufacturers invested on the growing Indian car market and they are now reaping the harvest of their investments. Japanese Suzuki Motor Corporation has emerged as the largest car maker of India with its Indian arm, Maruti Suzuki. Suzuki trebled its full-year global net income forecast on the back of strong Indian operations, despite sluggish sales overseas. While home market Japan as well as European countries contracted for Suzuki, India remained the only market to grow, with first half sales here moving up by 24 per cent at 4.7 lakh units against 3.8 lakh units in the corresponding period. Ten year old Korean car company Hyundai follows the Japanese car behemoth in this regard. It has a capacity of producing around 6 lakh units, half of which service export markets. The company has earmarked India as one of the hubs for manufacture of models like i10, i20 and Santro and sells India-made cars to over 100 countries. While developed markets in Europe and US remain under pressure, operations in India have been gradually growing. The company's cumulative sales in January-October 2009 period have grown by 12 per cent year-on-year at 4.57 lakh units (4.07 lakh) with domestic sales up 11 per cent at 2.39 lakh units and exports up 13 per cent at 2.17 lakh units. Honda too gets a sizeable portion of its revenues, sales and profits from its Indian subsidiary. It will bring its proposed small car for India by 2011. Beleaguered General Motors has its business flowing only in India in these hard times with its Chevrolet brand. Volkswagen, Fiat and Ford are expanding in India. While Nissan and Renault are trying to establish a firmer grip in the market shares and are coming with a low-cost car. Labels: Chevrolet, General-Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Indian-car-market, Maruti-Suzuki, Suzuki-Motor-Corporation
Thursday, 12 November 2009
Japanese car behemoth Honda is not keen to bring out a low-budget car.
In the time of economic turndown, many car giants have decided to bring out small low-priced cars to up their plunging sale records.
Though the car maker will focus in the Indian and Chinese markets for future growth, it will not enter the ultra low-cost car segment. Honda is presently working on a small car to keep up with the demands in these markets.
The Japanese car major is yet to declare when they will come out with its new product. Honda is presently busy studying the Indian small car segment so that its upcoming compact car is packaged to meet the requirement of Indian customers, Indian price-point while adhering to the Honda brand. The car, Honda revealed, would be smaller than current hatchback Jazz.
Currently, India and China are Honda’s top priority. China has emerged as a rare bright spot for Honda. It sold 50,600 cars in the country in October, up 42 per cent from a year earlier. Honda sold 34,430 cars between April and October in India, an increase of 38 per cent from a year earlier.
Honda's Japan operations are expected to stay in red though demand has been brisk, helped by generous tax reductions and incentives on hybrids like the Insight.
Honda’s US sales spiked temporarily in August helped by the cash-for-clunkers programme, but the impact was short-lived and followed by a sharp slump in demand the following month.
In June, Honda launched the Jazz in India, the smallest car in its stable. The company makes and sells premium sedans Honda City, Civic and Accord in India. Labels: Honda, Honda-Small-Cars, Low-Cost-Car, New-Cars-India, No- Low-Cost-Car-From Honda, Small-Car-Segment, Ultra-cheap-Car, Ultra-low-cost-Cars
Thursday, 22 October 2009
It is a trend that is seen not only among the car makers, but it is now seen in almost all of the economic and business sectors. If you are a car savvy, then there is little chance that you do not know about the eco-friendly innovations in the motor world. And to know about the current likings of the customers, you would need to just glance through the ongoing motor show, the Tokyo Motor Show. But it also appears to be that the electric cars are winning over the hybrid cars. And the reason is very clear. The electric cars manifest the eco-friendly movement much better than the hybrid cars and so the car world is now more inclined towards them. And it is very much evident in the Tokyo Motor Show that began yesterday. There is a great love for the super-skinny electric car from Nissan and the Toyota electric concept car FT-EV II. The electric car Leaf from Nissan will be displayed for the first time at this show, the car will be launched in 2010. The high significance for electric cars is because of that the hybrid cars are heavier, much complicated than an electric car and runs on petrol. And it is no wonder that the zero emission electric cars with rechargeable batteries will in no time march towards the number one position pushing the hybrid cars behind. It doesn’t mean that the hybrid cars are not inviting any attention. The Honda CR-Z concept car debuts at the show and the crowd seems to have got completely enchanted at this sportier second version of CR-Z. It is truly a delightful sight to see how the car world is evolving. Labels: Electric-Cars, Honda, Hybrid-Cars, Nissan, Toyota
Thursday, 15 October 2009
 The decision of buying a car does not come overnight. An intelligent buyer will research well before he takes the plunge of buying one. You might have all made plans for the ongoing festival season. And it also includes the plan of buying a car, and you are just blessed with so many new options. And these new cars will surely push you off into a deep sea of thoughts where it might take a few more weeks for you to make a peaceful and satisfied decision for which you will not regret about later. There are a whole range of new car models that is being presented to the Indian car audience. And this has happened in a short span of one to one and a half months. To add on to the list of car launches are cars that has been launched with a minor facelift, or an upgraded version or new variant of the existing model. For those who have settled their thoughts to buy an SUV has the large number of choices. As we have mentioned in a previous blog of ours, it was raining SUVs in India for the past few months. There was an upgraded Discovery 3 and Range Rover launched on September 23. And this launch was soon followed by the launch of Freelander 2, Ford Endeavour, facelifted Nissan X-trial, and the new Audi Q7. The two most acclaimed models of Honda, City and Civic, came as new offerings for the Indian car crowd. The Honda City gets a new variant and a facelifted version of the Civic was launched. The two top luxury car makers of the country Mercedes-Benz and BMW also had gifts for its customers this festival season. Mercedes-Benz launched its new 2010 E-class and BMW launched a new Roadster, Z4. The facelifted version of the existing Teana was also launched by Nissan. Porsche also made its presence through Porsche Panamera, a four seater sports sedan. Chevrolet also launched its sedan Cruze this week, just days before Diwali. Finally yesterday, Tata launched its mid-size sedan, Tata Manza. And we are still waiting for the launch of the re-launch of Maruti SX4 and the new SUV from Premier motors. Well, what do you think? A whole lot of cars, right, now it is up to you to take a clever decision. Labels: BMW, Ford, Honda, Maruti, Nissan, Porsche, Tata
Tuesday, 13 October 2009
The Patience is worth the wait. One would not crib for a Honda Jazz automatic anymore. Honda has brought an end to this by announcing a new automatic variant of Jazz. Well, there is still a long time to go before the company will actually launch it, till then we will just ponder on the thoughts of the new car. But, if you think to buy a Jazz and you will wait for the automatic version to get launched. Then, you can very much do that, but only if you have the patience and profound admiration for the model. After all you could be one such customer, who can go to such an extent to own a Jazz. And no one would laugh at you for doing so as Jazz is one among the cars that rocked the Indian roads. The new Jazz is expected to get launched only in 2010. And as we do not have a specific date to mention we would like to put it as, sometime next year. It is also expected that the car will not have any other new features except for the automatic transmission. The Honda Jazz is priced at the higher end that ranges between Rs. 6.98 and Rs.7.33. And the new automatic version of the car might cost you extra thousands. This is a presumption, as the price has not been announced officially. Currently, the Jazz is available in three variants such as Base, Mode and Active. This is for sure superior thinking from Honda. And the company will benefit the sales of the Jazz. Jazz will now join the legion of Honda’s automatic cars in India, the other AT cars from Honda being CR-V, Civic, City, and Accord. Labels: Automatic-Transmission, Honda, Honda-CR-V, Honda-Jazz
Thursday, 1 October 2009
 Honda riding high on its success of its models in India and abroad has announced an overview of the cars it will have on display at the Tokyo Motor Show this year. The list includes the EV-N, a small four-seater electric car that looks like it could well be the future of zero-emissions urban transport. With retro styling inspired by the 1960s Honda N360 micro car, the battery-powered EV-N also features solar panels on its roof, which can be used to charge the car’s batteries. Unfortunately enough, this is a concept vehicle only and Honda says it currently has no plans to put the EV-N into production. But we do not want Honda to rush on things as Honda has a prize winner in the form of Honda Insight already.  Joining the EV-N at Honda’s stand will be the CR-Z Concept, a petrol-electric hybrid sports car that’s scheduled to go into production in 2010. The CR-Z, according to Honda, will be the world’s first ever petrol-electric vehicle to employ a six-speed manual transmission. Also making its debut at this year’s Tokyo Motor Show will be the new Honda Skydeck concept, a six-seater hybrid MPV. This is, again, just a design study with no production plans as of now. However, the underlying technology, powertrain and packaging provide a glimpse at what we can expect from Honda in the years to come. Labels: Concept-Cars, Electric-Cars, Honda, Honda-CR-Z Concept, Honda-EV-N, Honda-Skydeck-Concept, Hybrid-Sports-Car
Wednesday, 9 September 2009
There is a good chance that your will become a small car very soon. To make matters more clear removing the cloud of confusion in the first sentence, here is a further explanation to it. The Japanese car makers Toyota and Honda Motors are the two that are looking for a change in the way India will define a small car. The companies are asking the Indian government to “Change the criteria of classifying a small car”. And there is a good reason for this which will not only benefit the two companies but all the car makers in the country; and the better reason is that in India small cars have lower tax rates. But will the two be able to change the mind of the Indian government into thinking different about small cars and classify a different set of cars as small cars taking into consideration the new criteria such as the emission norms, fuel efficiency, and passenger safety and not the engine capacity, which has been for a long time, the defining factor. This request raised by the Toyota and Honda has invited different opinions. Many are of the same opinion that the government should stop defining a car as small just by considering the fuel and engine capacity. The demand of the small cars in the country is really do the magic and that could be the reason why these companies want the Indian government to think new. It is expected that if the governments nods at changing the defining criterion then there will be a huge shuffle in the Indian car industry. Labels: Honda, Indian-Car-Manufacturer, Small-Car, Toyota
Tuesday, 8 September 2009
 The new Honda 2010 Civic has just been launched. The car comes to the Indian car market with a new interior and exterior. Loaded with the 1.8 L i-VTEC engine, which boasts as the most advanced engine of the segment, the new Honda Civic is available in three variants namely SMT, VMT, and VAT. The new exterior designs have added on to the sporty look of the car with the curved fog light with garnish, 5 point metallic front grille, newly designed alloy wheel, and restyled front sporty bumper. The restyled dark smokey headlights and crystalline octagonal tail lights betters the stance of the new Civic. The interiors of the new Civic is designed to excellence with two tone luxury high quality fabric seats with matching fabric on door panels and armrest and full flat floor. The auxiliary Jack in the front seat and audio controls for the backseat gives the machine a more sophisticated feel. In the VMT and VAT variants, the car comes ready with a steering mounted cruise control system. The fuel economy of the car looks very appreciative with 15.5 kilometre per litre for manual transmission and 13.1 km/l for automatic transmission. The car also has a range of safety features that ensures the complete safety of the passengers with ABS (Anti - Lock braking system) with EBD (Electronic Brake - Force Distribution System) and Brake Assist, pre-tensioner seat belts and Dual SRS airbags. There are five paint options including Alabaster Silver Metallic, Tafeta White, Polished Metal Metallic, Hebanero Red, and Crystal Black Pearl. The price of the car is not yet revealed by Honda. Labels: 2010-New-Honda-Civic, Honda
Celebrations have started for Hyundai and the company is ready to share the pleasure and joy of its 10th birthday in the country with its most priced customers. A decade long life of Hyundai in India has been rewarding for the company; it has been accepted and adorned by its customers for bringing out the most reliable cars. But for Honda it is a different reason to celebrate, the festival season in the country that will not end for another couple of months give Honda a reason to increase its sales and also celebrate and the Win a Car Contest has been introduced for this reason. Hyundai Motor India Ltd offers nationwide Free Car Care Clinic from the 7th of September till the 20th. This is not the first time the company is conducting a nationwide venture, but the seventh time in this short period of ten years of the company’s tenure in the country, but with this time there are lot more goodies. Conducted across 375 Hyundai dealer workshops, for the first time, the Hyundai customers can avail this service at Hyundai Authorised Service Centres (HASC), 30 of them across the country. The car will be undergone a complete 80 point check-up. The engine, under-body, exteriors, transmission etc will be given a thorough check up, in fact no part of the car will be left unexamined. The esteemed customers of Hyundai will get a free car wash, other value added services, and special discounts on oil and consumables. The discount percentage also mounts for each service, if it is a 10 per cent discount on spare parts, there is an attractive, much higher 20 per cent discount on labour charges. But things are a little different with Honda customers, as only those customers, who buys a Honda from September 7 to October 31 this year has a reason to rejoice as there is a change for them to drive home another Honda in less than a month’s time. The company also offers special accessory packages for the Jazz, Civic, City, Accord and CR-V. This is not all the company is celebrating its birthday with high pomp and there are return gifts too, if you are lucky. Extended warranty, gift hampers, a first prize of 32” LCD television, and the list does not stop here. Each Hyundai customer should make most of this opportunity, understanding that such golden opportunities do not happen every while. But this is surely a great way of treating its customers, gifting them an unforgettable Free Service. And for those who are planning to buy a new car never fail to check out Honda cars, not one, two of them as you may win another very soon. Labels: Honda, Honda-City, Hyundai
Thursday, 20 August 2009
 Both Honda City and Honda Civic are the crowd pulling models from Honda in India. The two models have won numerous awards and kudos from the critics and aficionados at the same time. But the company is not planning to settle down with all the appreciations and back tapping exercise as Honda is getting ready to deliver more to the consumers, by launching a facelifted Civic and an upgraded City. The reason for this can be that Honda wants to stop the grumbling customers as well as critics who find the cars’ interior designs not up to the mark with the usage of poorer quality plastic and lack of kit. But don’t you dare expecting the company to change only the so called complaining factors – plastic and kit. The company has plans to add on more features to upgrade the car and give no room for complaints from an unhappy customer. In other words, Honda just does not want any unhappy customer.  The upgraded Honda City will be available from October, 2009, it is not a long wait, but the facelifted Civic will be available a month before the updated City hits the market, ie, by September. A quick browse through the new features of both the car reveals that Honda City will have two new variants namely 1.5 V MT and 1.5 V AT together with the existing 1.5 S MT. The existing model, the S version will get a new set of colour option with new better quality interiors, it will also have rotary controls for the air-conditioning. The V version will have leather interiors, fog lamp, 15-inch alloy wheels and all the new look which its S variant has received. There is expected to be a price change in the S variant and the V models as it will be priced between Rs 9.2 to 9.7 lakh. With a small increase in price, the Honda Civic will be available with a minor facelift. The Civic will have new alloy wheels, front bumper, grille, and fog lamp and there will be an option of USB port and of course, the Civic will get more colour options. Labels: Honda, Honda-City, Honda-Civic
Wednesday, 19 August 2009
 It seems like nobody is interested to live in the present. The car makers look to be more enthralled with the future than they are with the present, it will not be a problem until they completely abandon the present. Preparing for a for a better tomorrow is always good but trying to foresee the future may not always spin things in ones favour, as others are also trying to do the same. Honda has designed a futuristic concept car, not five or ten years ahead of us but twenty years ahead. It has designed a car for 2030. The 2030 luxury sports sedan will be built on the zeppelin concept. The car design has used the fundamentals of the aerodynamic form with hi-technology dynamics. And thus the car has a strikingly similar look of an airship. The car is designed by a final year student, Myung Jin Jung, as a part of his thesis. This Honda Zeppelin, as we would call it now, has great features that will add on to the styling and designing of the car. The car will have an asymmetric styling line running from the hood to the rear and for a better view for the driver; the car will have a slit-like windscreen that is attached to the video display. Almost all the features of the car are automatic, which leaves the driver with more times to spend on other things than on driving. The car will not have a dashboard and the car will provide all the necessary information needed while driving through its inter panel display. There is also the voice recognition technology which asks for less movement while in the car. The fuel options or other features are not known, but it is surely an eco-friendly car. This car will be the icon of future cars, but only till another car maker has another model designed for 2050. Labels: Concept-Car, Honda, Honda-Zeppelin
Tuesday, 9 June 2009
Amidst the nagging economic gloom, positive news from the Indian car market provides us with something to cheer about. According to the figures released by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), car sales in India continued an upward swing for the fifth consecutive month. Passenger cars registered a 2.48 per cent growth in May taking total sales to 1,13,490 units as against 1,10,745 units sold in the same month last year. This time too Maruti Suzuki and Honda have come out on top as saviours of the car market to help it stay in positive territory. Maruti Suzuki registered 9.71 percent increase in May sales and Honda posted a rise of 11.01 percent. Though that’s all good, the overall car sales declined 19% last month, the worst drop in 5 years. Industry experts cry hoarse over meek rate of lending by banks and downturn for the bleak situation. They demand greater government intervention in the form of easy financing, cut in interest rates, and rationalisation of excise duty for a quick revival. One wonders how Maruti and Honda could manage to keep afloat during such trying times where other players like Hyundai and Tata bit the dust with dip in sales. On close scrutiny, it can be seen that Maruti’s "one component, one gram" policy has worked well. This policy helps them cut down on costs and improve a car’s fuel efficiency and performance, making it a "paisa wasool" (value for money) car. Currently, Maruti 800 weighs 650 kg and a 2kg weight reduction could bring down the cost of the model. The company has asked its vendors to reduce the weight of each component by one gram. The "one-gram" theory has helped them reduce cost of production thereby fighting the sullen car market more effectively. Honda too is bringing out its new model Jazz with reduced weight. Labels: Car-Sales-India, Honda, Maruti-Suzuki
Tuesday, 26 May 2009
India is believed to be a vast pool of talented and skilled professionals. And that’s the reason why global car manufacturers are eyeing Indian car designers and engineers for their firms. New car launches and technological innovation in the recent times clearly reflects India’s ingenuity. With this, car manufacturers like Renault, Nissan, Honda Motors, and Suzuki Motors Corporation are hiring professionals from the Indian R&D centres for their global headquarters. Manufacturers around the world are even outsourcing creative designers and skilled engineers from India. Maruti is set to send 80 of its existing engineers to Japan to train them on the development of new car models. It is believed that every year 30 new recruits from Maruti Suzuki India are sent to Japan, some to work on the global projects and some are trained on the development of India specific models. Hyundai Motors is also sending some of its most talented engineers to Korea, Frankfurt, and Detroit to work on the company’s global project. And Honda with a focus on India specific models is also planning to send its technical staff to overseas countries. Indian talents are gradually being exposed in the global automotive world and are gaining prominence. This exposure will also introduce them to advancements and innovations taking place in the global industry which will further help foster the growth of Indian car industry. Labels: Auto-Engineers, Car-Manufacturers, Honda, Hyundai, Indian-Car-Designers, Maruti-Suzuki
Monday, 30 March 2009
Last weekend the Formula One fans were glued to their couches with their eye fixed on the TV screens as the Formula One racing begins another season in Australia. The Brawn GP bagged one-two victory on their debut in Formula racing. Similar triumph was witnessed by a team driven by Juan Manuel Fangio and Karl Kling for Mercedes-Benz in the French Grand Prix in 1954. Amazingly, this time the history is repeated by Jenson Button and Rubens Barrichello for Brawn-Mercedes winning the ‘race of two halves’ in Australia. The drivers Jenson Button and Rubens Barrichello of Brawn GP celebrated the victory with the Brawn (owner of the team). This was the same team that was sold by Honda last year due to financial crisis. No one had ever imagined that this newbie would take off in full swing in the first race it self. The team Brawn GP is owned by Rose Brawn and promoted by the Richard Branson of Virgin. The car includes new changes like revolutionary KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System) which further boosts up the engine offering an additional 80 bhp. Also, the improved aerodynamic of the car supported the win. The 2009 season is the 60th FIA Formula One World Championship with ten teams participating in the race. The season was started with the Australian Grand Prix on 29 March 2009 and will end on 1 November 2009 with the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Abu Dhabi Grand Prix track is the latest addition on the race calendar for the first time. Labels: Car-Racing, Formula-One, Honda
Tuesday, 23 December 2008
The liquidity crunch has taken a toll on major sports events including the Formula 1. Though Formula 1 is considered to be the richest sports, yet it's experiencing the pressure of economic meltdown. One of the biggest F1 spenders, Honda, has already pulled out from the team, putting his team at auction. Honda was known to invest about millions of dollars in this sports event to keep its F1 team buzzing. But, now an immediate withdrawal by the company has triggered fear that other associated car manufacturers could withdraw before the start of the F1 season. Withdrawal by Honda has further brought down the financial position of this sport. Honda F1 team is now sold out to F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone with an announcement that the company won’t even supply engines. Honda's withdrawal from the sports has put the future of winning drivers Jenson Button and Reubens Barrichello in dilemm. As a part of the cost cutting measures the old engines have been detuned to 18,000 rpm for three races next season instead of two in the current scene. Even the number of engines provided to the teams has been reduced in response to the economic meltdown. All the teams would now be provided a maximum of 20 engines, 8 for each of the two drivers and the remaining four for the testing procedure. This is amazingly almost half of what the teams used in the current season. Possibilities are there that after Honda, other car players like BMW, Mercedes, Ferrari, Renault, and Toyota will also take a backward move to save a heavy investment required to maintain a competitive team. Labels: BMW-Cars, Formula-1, Honda
Thursday, 11 December 2008
It’s shocking to know that Honda has quit the Formula One. The key factors contributing to this decision taken by Honda is the downturn in the global auto markets, deepening credit crisis, and unexpected contraction of the global economies. Honda bought the team in the year 2000 in association with its partner British American Racing (BAR). It was soon recognized as Honda F1. But, now it is speculated that the new team head, Ross Brawn, is looking ahead to contact Ferrari for supplying new engines to the F1 racing cars. If this happens, Ferrari will be back into the sports with a big bang. This was a tough and galling decision taken by Fukui, the CEO of Honda. Fukui is known to be a true racer who always wanted to do extremely well in Formula One. It is believed that in the last season the company surprisingly participated without any sponsors, proudly fulfilling its commitment to motoring with a green ecological theme. Some still wonder whether the decision to withdraw immediately was taken because of the lack of sponsors or is it really because of the slowdown in the markets. Some even say that the withdrawal may be because Honda has only celebrated one fortuitous win in past eight years in this sport. This one win was not enough for Honda to feel proud of the team. Critics also views the surprise pull out of Honda from Formula One as a blow to the team that could affect this glamour sport in many way. Labels: Formula-One, Honda, Racing-Cars
Tuesday, 30 September 2008
Currently, Jazz is globally considered to be the smallest car in Honda’s portfolio of cars. Now with high inflation, the company feels the need to produce cars smaller than its Jazz. Aimed at reducing environmental emissions and shortage of fuel in near future, the company is also in progress to design and develop small cars that will take on less fuel and will be lower in CO2 emissions. The way forward, Honda plans to launch small and affordable hybrid engines. It also has plans to add more number of diesel engines in its car portfolio. Honda Jazz will hit the Indian shores by next year and the company will launch another small car in a couple of years, a global car with an improved engine technology and better performance. Expectations are high that Honda will now enter the core of Indian car industry and establish a stronger niche with a range of small cars. Labels: Honda, Honda-Jazz, Indian-Car, Small-Car
Monday, 29 September 2008
Honda recently gifted the Honda Accord to Mr. Digvijay Singh, winner of the Order of Merit List for gold tournament held in India. Digvijay, a happy owner of the Honda Accord must be smiling with the car keys in his hands. Obviously, he has a reason to smile. Honda as a brand is a super success in the country and people love to own Honda cars like City, Civic, CR-V, and Accord. The new Accord is a perfect blend of unmatched performance, inspiring style, high-end safety, and refined comfort. Who will not love driving a classy car like this? By gifting this car to the winner of a sport event, Honda is making an attractive move towards branding. Indian car manufacturers are going hand in hand with sports events because of the huge crowd following sports activities. Even Volvo tried to brand its car model by gifting it to the first Indian individual winner of Olympics. Labels: Honda, Honda- Accord, Honda-City, Honda-Civic, Honda-CR-V, Indian-Car, Volvo
Wednesday, 11 June 2008
Though diesel cars arrived much later than petrol cars in India, they have always been more popular in the Indian market due to the high fuel economy they deliver. Very few car manufacturers in the country have shyed away from introducing diesel car variants or models. One of them is Honda. Honda has clung on to petrol engines over the entire decade that they have been in the country. Recently, there have been rumours that Honda is planning to introduce a diesel variant of one of its existing models. It’s supposed by many that the model could very well be their popular SUV – the Honda CR-V. Labels: Diesel cars, Honda, new car launch
Friday, 6 June 2008
The Indian car market does not have any hybrid cars as of now though they have been around for over two decades in the US and Europe. Hybrid cars consume less fuel and have lower emission levels. Despite all these merits, they have not been popular with the masses because of their exorbitant prices. But now hybrids have become hot favourites with the issue of global warming and energy consumption.
After Honda’s announcement of a launch of the Civic Hybrid in India, the world’s No. 1 hybrid car Toyota Prius is set to arrive too. Prius is the most fuel efficient car in the US. The car is likely to be available at a price tag of Rs 18-20 Lakh.
Labels: Honda, hybrid cars, Toyota
Monday, 19 May 2008
Few cars companies have been able to maintain a strong brand image over a decade as Honda. The Japanese car company Honda is associated with premium sedans in India. The product portfolio is short with only four models: the City, Civic, CR-V and the Accord. The company will be celebrating 10th year of its presence in India. On the decennial anniversary, the company plans to roll out the eco-car Civic Hybrid. Since the car will be imported, it could cost higher in India, than in US or Japan. The Civic Hybrid is 60 percent fuel efficient. The car will be a complete solution to greenhouses gases in India. However, its price could be a factor that can affect sale in India, which is the hub of low-priced cars. Labels: Honda, Hybrid Car
Friday, 16 May 2008
The 8th Generation Accord is a kind of hybrid vehicle in India. It gets an E10 engine which is fueled by 10 % ethanol and 90 percent petrol run. This car will be manufactured in India at Honda facilities. Thus, the car will also be eligible for benefits given for hybrids as announced by the Union Finance Minister in the Budget 2008. The 8th Generation Accord is also costlier by Rs 2 lakh compared to its previous models. The cost is increased due to the introduction of new engine which saves petrol when idling and at traffic signals. The much awaited Accord will hopefully herald the hybrid range of cars in India. The car cannot be positioned against the more powerful Honda Civic hybrid, but is in the same line as it is run by the combination of fuel (Petrol and Ethanol). Honda needs to bring in many more of such cars to India. Labels: Honda, hybrid cars
Thursday, 15 May 2008
Finally, the 8th generation Accord has arrived in India. The announcement was made on Tuesday by the officials of Honda Siel Cars. According to initial reports, the car will be available in three variants – Accord 2.4, Accord 2.4 Elegance and Accord 2.4 Inspire. The prices would start from Rs 16.49 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) and go up to Rs 18.14 lakh. The new accord is Rs 2 lakh costlier than its earlier versions, but it also comes packaged with latest interior and exterior features. Honda has tried to make the 8th generation car looks radically different from its predecessor. The new car comes with a lot of goodies like the new i-VTEC engine, advanced gearbox and hybrid fuel combination of ethanol and petrol. The fuel efficiency has also improved by 8 %. May be the car proves to be the best saloon to enter India before the Fiat Linea does later in this year. Labels: Honda, new car launch
Friday, 11 April 2008
Chevrolet Captiva the most appealing SUV will be soon seen in an automatic transmission version without compromising on performance and fuel economy. The rocking SUV has won millions of hearts and is doing well on Indian roads. Presently, its available only with a diesel engine. Captiva carried pretty impressive sales by selling nearly 200 units last month which is second only to the Honda CR-V. Now with the automatic transmission option, it’ll definitely attract more buyers. Another plus point is that this model will be enhanced by a four wheel drive feature. The new features on the Captiva might add to the cost of the car but spending a little extra is worth it for such good features. Labels: Chevrolet, Honda, new car launch, New variant, SUVs
Tuesday, 1 April 2008
Has India become a decisive factor in Mitsubishi’s business strategy? It does looks like that if you see at the new products planned for India. The Japanese company is planning to introduce the i–MiEV, an electric car and the very stylish SUV Outlander next year in India. It seems that the company does not want to rest on its laurels gained in past. The company is already selling Lancer, Cedia, Monetro and Pajero. The company is now eyeing luxury SUV segment by launching Outlander and is also planning to introduce the first international brand electric car in India. The company has re-defined luxury cars in India. It can do the same in future. It is clearly targeting other Japanese car manufacturers Honda and Maruti-Suzuki who have already established themselves in India. Labels: Electric Car, Expansion in Indian auto industry, Growth in Indian auto industry, Honda, luxury cars, Mitsubishi, new cars, SUVs
Wednesday, 19 March 2008
If you are looking forward to buying the new Honda Accord for Ugadi or Gudi Padva in March, its time to change your plan. You don’t have to entirely give up on the car though. You are just going to have to postpone your plans of buying it.
Honda has put a stop to the production of the new eight generation Honda Accord. The car will be available only in May. The new date is also not fixed. Honda is re-designing the car and making it longer by 2.5 to 3 inches. A new car model could be stuck in the car design phase for a long time and nothing is certain until it’s over with. So, the launch date can’t be fixed with certainty yet. But one thing is for sure - The new Accord is going to be a real treat to the eyes and well worth the wait! Labels: Car-Designs, Honda, new car launch
Saturday, 8 March 2008
It’s a story of Tortoise beat the Hare in a “car race”. Last month, the Mahindra-Renault Logan suddenly sold out in large numbers to overtake Honda City, Hyundai Verna and Maruti Suzuki SX4. The Logan has always been appreciated for being a good mileage car. But for a long time, its price wasn’t helping sales. Promotional campaigns weren’t going its way either. The ‘most spacious sedan on Indian roads’ was unable to make much space for itself in our highly competitive car market. It was slowly drifting into oblivion.
A new price strategy from Mahindra-Renault has come to the Logan’s rescue. The family sedan now comes cheaper at Rs 4.5 lakh for petrol and Rs 5.75 lakh for diesel variant. Now, the car is most probably filling Mahindra Motors’ balance sheets alongside the Scorpio. We thought the new union budget might encourage Mahindra-Renault to come out with a smaller version of the Logan but that’s not what they have in mind. It will remain just the same. We hear there’s a new brand campaign in the works though. Labels: Car-Discounts-India, Car-Sales, Honda, Hyundai, Mahindra-Renault, Maruti Suzuki
Wednesday, 5 March 2008
The hydrogen revolution has come to India. Tata, Honda, and Toyota are already conducting research on hydrogen-run buses, trucks, and cars. The First hydrogen fuelling station for these vehicles is said to open in the last quarter of 2008. The Indian Oil Corporation is likely to base this fuel station in Delhi as part of a government policy to convert 20 % of vehicles to natural gases. These 20% vehicles could be either public transport like buses or private transport like cars (mainly luxury cars). The fuelling station will supply hythane and hydrogen to all vehicles powered by natural gases. This is a positive move from the Indian government to save the environment before it is too late. In the near future, if small cars also join the hydrogen vehicle line-up, then pollution could soon be a topic of the past! Labels: Environment friendly cars, Honda, Hydrogen fueled vehicles, small cars, Tata
Tuesday, 26 February 2008
In JD Power’s list of car manufacturers based on customer satisfaction for the year 2007, Honda, Hyundai and Tata Motors have hit bottom. It’s totally unbelievable that they have dropped to the end of the list on the sales satisfaction index. Shockingly, Hyundai has lost the most points and dropped to the eighth position from last year’s third position.
I find that Hyundai has good after-sales service and I’m sure they have very happy customers. Their small cars are also very decent. I don’t think the customer satisfaction list is accurate. Article submitted by Gaja Labels: Auto market competition, Car-Sales, Honda, small cars
Wednesday, 20 February 2008
Honda has always been known to be an environment-friendly car manufacturer. With a whole range of hybrids and eco-cars, it is a model car maker. While the Indian government is thinking of making 10 percent ethanol (E10) blends with petrol mandatory to hold in every petrol bunk in India by October, Honda has announced it will come out with its E20 cars by December 2008 if this is the case. The Honda manufacturer stands as a favourite for many in India. Many car manufacturers are struggling to bring in hybrids and many luxury car owners want to stick to petrol guzzling engines, but a little help and nudge from the Indian government will go a long way in the acceptance of Hybrid machines on Indian roads. Article Submitted by SattyLabels: eco-friendly cars, Environment friendly car, Honda, hybrid cars, Upcoming Cars
Friday, 1 February 2008
I just read that the oil ministry has decided to give Ethanol a declared goods status, which means that its cost could go down compared to its current cost of Rs 28 per litre. I have been following up the news about the launch of the Hybrid green cars that Honda and Toyota are suppose to launch this year. Naturally, I am an eco-friendly guy and I like the idea of my kids growing up in greener city than what I get to see now!
Ethanol is the favoured fuel for these hybrid green cars and if this policy goes through, then ethanol will become the cheapest fuel for cars. So, like nowadays, Diesel cars cost more than Petrol cars because diesel is cheaper than petrol, similarly these Hybrid cars may be the most expensive of the lot, but the fuel and daily expenditure on the car will be comparatively the least. These green cars keep sounding better and better! Labels: Environment friendly cars, Honda, hybrid cars, Toyota
Thursday, 31 January 2008
The government should stress on research for Hydrogen vehicles. Hydrogen is abundantly available in the world. Harnessing this energy for vehicle consumption will free the world not only from pollution but also the green house gases. The Scandinavian country, Norway, will be testing Hydrogen-powered vehicles sometime this summer under the project named ‘Hynor’. The test will be conducted over a 580 km route from the national capital Oslo and Stavanger. The cars will be supplied by the Japanese car manufacturer, Mazda Motor Corporation. Other car makers who are already researching in this field are Honda Motors and Toyota; both of these manufacturers have already churned out successful Hybrid cars. If the project becomes a success, then such tests can be conducted worldwide and replicated. This will ensure a greener tomorrow for the future generation and Indian car manufacturers should start thinking about developing these factions in their upcoming R&D facilities. Article submitted by Rajiv ShuklaLabels: Honda, hybrid cars, Toyota
Wednesday, 23 January 2008
In India, one of the most impressive models from Honda is the ‘Accord’. It’s a nice and sturdy car with classy interiors. It’s also ahead in terms of performance and technology. The 2.4-litre i-VTEC engine is one of the best from Honda and luxury features on the car are unparalleled. To a certain extent, the car can even be compared with the Mercedes-Benz ‘C’ class and the BMW 3 Series.
The Honda Accord is definitely a blast with features like G-Force control technology, adjustable steering with volume control buttons and automatic headlights. The car redefines safety, luxury and comfort in its segment. It’s one of the coolest sedans around. Go ahead and pamper yourself with the Accord. Submitted by Gopal M. Labels: BMW-Cars, car comparison, Honda, Mercedes-Benz
Thursday, 10 January 2008
While reading a recent interview of Honda Motors’ chief operating officer for South Asia, I came across him saying that they have brought robots from Europe for their Indian facility. The ultra modern and sophisticated robots are engaged in the painting division. No doubt Honda has able robots. Honda is credited with having created the most advanced humanoid robots popularly called ASIMOs. The latest ASIMO is capable of providing uninterrupted service to office guests. So Honda has brought in robots to replace their painting division. But what needs to be highlighted is that when unemployment runs so high in the country and the automobile sector being one of the largest employment sectors, a company like Honda Motors thinks it’s fine to let robots do some work too. In contrast, Tata and Maruti are fine examples of employee recruitment and satisfaction. A recent study has revealed that car buyers were inclined to choose Maruti products because of high employee satisfaction within the car company.
I am of the opinion that Robots are fine where labour shortage is a problem. But it’s impractical to engage in such moves where there is surplus labour available. I own one of Honda’s cars and am impressed with the quality of their engineering. But when i ponder over the effect of such tactics from employers in all manufacturing facilities and domains, I can’t help but worry. It would please me greatly to know that skilled Indian hands are at work at Honda Motors’ plant in Manesar. Submitted by Ramesh H. M. Labels: Honda, Jobs, Maruti, Tata
Sunday, 30 December 2007
Tata’s cheapest car is certainly not giving cheap competition. Suzuki Motor is facing threats to its 50 percent of share on India’s auto market. Market analyst hints that it may cut the price of Maruti 800, the car that was first to bring motorization within the reach of the middle-class. Though, recently there were reports stating Škoda, Maruti and Honda may raise cost of its few models in India, as prices of car components are on a rise. However, prices of Honda CR-V and Maruti’s Grand Vitara would stay put. As we know, manufacturers hike car prices twice a year, in January and June respectively. So, we shall reserve all out comments till then. It’s time to see Tata’s people’s car brings motorization to who all’s reach? While it’s already posing threat to Suzuki. Labels: Honda, Maruti Suzuki, Skoda, Tata Motors 1 lakh car
Saturday, 29 December 2007
All auto majors of the world have taken heed to the rising issue of global warming and have been researching and developing new technologies in this regard. Honda, being one of them, has been working aggressively to produce clean and green vehicles. For the coming Auto Expo in Delhi, Honda has selected the environment as its theme. Honda will showcase its popular hybrid car, the Civic Hybrid and its first fuel-cell model, the FCX. The Civic Hybrid’s powertrain will be a combination of a 20 bhp electric motor and a 95 bhp petrol engine. The car uses the cleaner motor in place of the petrol engine at initial start. As the car stops, the petrol engine is turned off automatically and power is routed to the wheels through the electric motor. This regulation of the petrol engine at start and at stop significantly contributes to reduction in fuel consumption and also cuts down on emissions. The Honda FCX first launched two years ago is the world’s first fuel cell vehicle to beg government awards and certifications. The new eco-friendly cars are expected to deliver Honda’s current commitments to the environment. Labels: Auto-Expo, Environment friendly cars, Honda, Hybrids
Friday, 7 December 2007
All efforts to creation of goodwill through corporate social responsibility activities go a long way in marketing and eventually sale of the products, according to a recent study. During the survey nearly 80 percent of Indian’s said that they would go for car makers who create employment opportunities in India and have environment friendly policies. Maruti got loads of praises for its high quality vehicles provided at low cost and its effort towards job creation in India. It was also appreciated for bringing in international brands, in joint venture with Japanese car maker Suzuki, at the same time of their international launch. The automotive sector as a whole was lauded for job creation and employee satisfaction efforts. However the survey revealed that the automobile companies need to do more for environment conservation. Reading the blogs here, it appears that GM, Honda, Toyota, and many others are planning to do just that. Article submitted by Rajesh SawantLabels: corporate social responsibilty, Environment friendly cars, Expansion in Indian auto industry, GM, Honda, Maruti, Suzuki, Toyota
Monday, 26 November 2007
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
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
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
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
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
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
Monday, 5 November 2007
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
Wednesday, 31 October 2007
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
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Honda has launched its new Accord with 3.5-litre V6 engine and the most ‘electrifying’ feature, among others, is the electric sunroof. This premium sedan from Honda had it all in its previous versions and now, on customers’ demand, it has included one more feature of attraction. Talk about customer care!
