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Tuesday, 3 November 2009
There weren't many things happening at the Fiat stage of late. The company has also recently denied the launch of ultra cheap car, which we all expected to host the Indian roads very soon. But with such saddening news the company also combined the promise of the plans of the company to launch small, low cost cars. But it will take some time before the car will be actually available to the Indian car lovers.
Now let us speak of something that will happen in the near future. The much-loved model of Fiat, Linea will now be more powerful. The company will provide the Linea a more powerful petrol engine. Fiat will now establish its T-jet 1.4-litre engine that has a remarkable direct injection and turbo charger.
The T-jet is expected to bring in a new appeal for Linea. It will also help in improving the performance and refinement of the Linea.
It is also expected that the company might also introduce 110bhp 1.6 litre diesel engine for Linea. And it was expected that the company will launch this during the beginning of next year, but it is now said that the company might launch it only towards the end of 2010. Labels: cars-India, Fiat-Cars, Fiat-Linea, small-cars-India, Ultra-cheap-Car
Monday, 2 November 2009
This will be another car from the Skoda stable. And it will be a car that the Indian car lovers can't wait to get launched. Skoda is planning to launch its popular MUV (Multi Utility Vehicle), the Skoda Roomster in Indian market next year. The Roomster is a much acclaimed model from Skoda. It is a five door MUV. And the company is launching the Roomster to further strengthen its base in the Indian car market. The MUV is expected to be launched in March next year.
The Roomster will have to compete with the Honda CR-V, Ford Endeavour, Toyota Fortuner and the upcoming Hyundai Santa Fe.
It is expected that the Skoda Roomster will be launched with three different engine options namely 1.4-litre, 1.6-litre and a 1.9-litre. And it will be available in both petrol and diesel trims. The petrol variants of the Skoda Roomster will be available in 1.4-litre and 1.6-litre engines. And the diesel variants of the Skoda Roomster will be available in 1.4-litre and 1.8-litre engine options.
The Roomster has a long suspension with high ground clearance, which makes it capable of off-roading. The Skoda Roomster will be imported to India as CKD from its parent company and it will be assembled at the company’s Aurangabad based manufacturing plant.
Skoda Roomster has advanced safety features such as Dual Front and Side Curtain Airbags, ABS (Antilock Brake System) with EBD (Electronic Brake-Force Distribution), ESP and many more advanced features. The paint options of the car are not available.
The MUV will be priced in the range of Rs. 16 to 18 Lakh. Labels: cars-India, MUVs, Skoda Roomster, Skoda-Cars
Friday, 30 October 2009
Maruti Suzuki tops the list again, this time for a different reason!
India’s numero uno car company has topped the list for the tenth consecutive year for customer satisfaction in the country according to a recent survey conducted by global market research firm J D Power.
In the survey, " J D Power Asia Pacific 2009 India Customer Service Index Study", Maruti Suzuki scored 824, on a scale of 1,000 points, followed by Honda Siel Cars India at 791 and Mahindra & Mahindra at 757.
It was to be noted that only Maruti Suzuki and the Indian arm of Honda bettered the industry's average score of 785.
The other major car makers in the top ten list are Toyota with 754 points, Mahindra-Renault and Tata Motors at 750, Chevrolet with 748 points and Hyundai with 5 points less than Chevrolet. Ford is at the eighth place with 733 points followed by Fiat at 727 and Skoda is at the tenth position at 722.
The Senior Director of J D Power Asia Pacific mentioned that the leading brands differentiate themselves in the service quality and vehicle pickup factors. The study measured overall satisfaction by examining five factors -- service quality, vehicle pickup, service advisor, service facility and service initiation.
J D Power also said the number of customers who changed from organised dealership service facilities to non-authorised service centre for vehicle service requirements decreased to seven per cent in 2009, from 11 per cent in 2008.
Overall customer satisfaction is measured on a 1,000 point scale, with a higher score indicating higher satisfaction. The study, which is based on responses from more than 5,800 owners of nearly 50 different vehicle models, was fielded from May to August 2009 and includes customers who had purchased their vehicles between May 2007 and August 2008. Labels: cars-India, Maruti-Suzuki, Ratings on JD Customer Satisfaction Index
Monday, 22 June 2009
You don't have to sport that 'Did I just see that' look on your face when you see a premium sedan car running on cheaper gas fuels like CNG and LPG, because that is what would be happening henceforth. These low cost fuels, forte of the compact cars like M800, Chevrolet Spark and Hyundai Santro, soon would be used by the premium sedan cars like Toyota Corolla, Maruti SX4, Skoda Octavia and Chevrolet Aveo. It is said that these fuels slash running cost by half. It is expected that Skoda Auto, which has already launched the CNG versions of Octavia in Spain and other European markets is likely to introduce the same in India soon. Skoda calls it the Greenline technology as it uses 10 percent less fuel than other traditional 1.9 TDI models. It has been learnt that Toyota Kirloskar Motors, the Indian subsidiary of the world’s premier auto manufacturer Toyota Motors, is testing Corolla for the CNG version. Also General Motors is planning on bringing out the CNG version of its sedan Chevrolet Aveo. These auto manufacturers were amazed to see sales of Hyundai Accent CNG zooming past its petrol sibling. It has helped revive the model which was on the brink of extinction in India. Sales have picked up in cities where CNG is available, such as in Delhi, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad. Apart from this, car manufacturers are also worried that sales of mid-size cars have declined drastically. They expect car sales to climb up with the cheaper fuel versions. Besides focusing on CNG and LPG versions, they have also been following up on alternative fuels too. Besides, the central government has stressed on the need of hybrid for eco-friendly for transportation during the Common Wealth Games in Ne Delhi in 2011. Labels: cars-India, Chevrolet-Aveo, CNG-cars-India, LPG-cars-India, Skoda-Octavia, Toyota-Corolla, Toyota-Kirloskar-Motors
Friday, 8 August 2008
Looks like even the luxury car manufacturers have discover the potential of used car market in India. Major players like the Maruti-Suzuki, Hyundai, Mahindra & Mahindra has already achieved a good market in the used car segment and now the Volkswagen is also interested in trying its fortune in the pre-owned car business. This is a good start from Volkswagen as this will open the gate of more sales. With the entry in used car market, the brand can attain good market share in India as well as more customers. Presently, the company is shining the Indian roads with its sedan Passat and Toureg from the SUV class. It is also in the news that the Volkswagen follows top to down strategy where they will first concentrate on the premium cars and then get into the small car segment. This luxury car manufacturer has made the right step with the decision to enter into the used car market as this a perfect way to build customers. To further strengthen their presence in India Volkswagen also plans to roll out its iconic car 'Beetle alias Bug' in India. Labels: cars-India, Used-Cars, Volkswagen
Wednesday, 30 July 2008
Mahindra & Mahindra and Renault currently hold a share of 51:49 in the partnership. This partnership was signed between both the companies for manufacturing and retailing their most leading car, the Logan. But now, with the increasing pressures and challenges, the joint venture desires to extend their retailing partnership to sell Renault’s future cars. Mahindra has no recent plans to introduce more cars to India. That’s the reason why the company is willing to extend the partnership with Renault to market the upcoming Renault’s car. Mahindra is keen to make the Mahindra-Renault centre as the distribution network to sell Renault’s new cars. The new cars are expected to be launched from Chennai in the next two years. The negotiated partnership between the two companies will be used to sell those cars under the brand of Mahindra-Renault Ltd. Will Renault agree to the partnership? Will Renault share its success of the proposed cars with Mahindra? Any guesses? Labels: cars-India, Mahindra and Mahindra, Mahindra-Renault, New-Cars
Monday, 21 July 2008
The production of Tata Nano has already faced many obstacles to reach the final production stage. One more challenge approached the Nano when Maruti Suzuki organized a rural car fest in the Singur, Nano’s national production base. Organizing a car fair just before the launch of the Nano will definitely take both the car makers on an imminent battle. The primary objective of the car fair held by Maruti was to showcase a vast portfolio of Maruti cars and shell out good deals to lure customers. Through the fair, Maruti also hoped to tap into semi-urban and rural areas where the car sales are slow. It was a three day fair with a special finance section to explain car financing and other deals to prospective buyers. The fair was a big success with almost 20 cars sold out on the first day. Was this an attempt to announce deals, discounts and offers? Or was this a call for battle with the Tata? Labels: cars-India, Maruti 800, Nano
Tuesday, 1 April 2008
With the new Insurance premiums rate, it’s good news for both mass of people who use cars occasionally and those who use more than one car. The Insurance Company has planed to introduce pay-per use model of coverage for cars which is already in use in Europe. The new concept works with the help of GPRS system which tracks the car and the rates are charged accordingly. The users will have to pay much lesser charges compare to what they pay presently. The charge will depend on the number of usage, thus reduce the burden on users. In India, this will be helpful for cities like Mumbai and Bangalore where people don’t use cars including small cars, SUVs, sedans and luxury cars much due to traffic problem. Hope it would suit a lot of small users and reduce premiums. Labels: auto insurance, cars-India, luxury cars, new concept premium rate, Sedans, small cars, SUVs
Wednesday, 19 March 2008
The steadily increasing car ownership numbers has also opened vistas for careers in car care. India is still new to automated car wash facility. It is estimated that the car wash business could be billion dollar enterprise. As people have little time to take care of their car maintenance and washing is certainly on their top list of things-to-do-for-the-week. In USA the car wash business is estimated to be worth $5 billion. That is a virtually a mini nation. There are a whole lot of possibilities, in this regard. The first and foremost is that such enterprises could open a lot of job opportunities. May be somebody could start in India making and it will definitely be a hit! Labels: Automated Car Wash, car maintenance, cars-India, India
Tuesday, 4 March 2008
Most cars in the Indian car market today are front wheel drive. The reason for this is that the front wheel setup is simpler and cheaper to build compared to the rear wheel drive. The construction of rear wheel drive is slightly more complex. Also, front wheel drive cars are more popular in India because they are lighter (meaning that they give more mileage) and they perform well in slippery surfaces (meaning that they are better suited for Indian roads and for the rainy season). All these factors have killed the rear wheel drive cars in India which actually give better acceleration, better braking, and a better feel of driving. Rear wheel cars are more zippy and fun to drive. Comparatively Front wheel drive is slightly boring. The rear wheel drive concept is now limited only to a few MUVs, commercial vehicles and expensive luxury cars like Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Audi. Labels: cars-India, Front wheel drive, luxury cars, Mercedes-Benz, rear wheel drive
Saturday, 9 February 2008
As we all know, the only electric car that is tooting around in India is the Maini REVAi. I have always wanted more options and now my wait seems to be over. I keep up with car news as a hobby and stumbled upon news about some other electric car being brought out by some unknown company called Bavina in Chennai. But before you become cynical about what the car is going to be like, let me remind you that Maini was just as unknown when it first came out! Apparently, it is going to be a 4-door passenger car with an estimated price tag of Rs 2.5 Lakh, which is way less than the Maini 2-door. The launch is supposed to be in April 2008. This newbie will most probably have the options of an AC, a central locking system, and power windows, all within the estimated price. If I want to go electric without having to settle for a frog like REVA, then count me in! Article Submitted by Rajesh PaiLabels: cars-India, Electric Car, Environment friendly cars, Maini, REVAi
Tuesday, 18 December 2007
Tata Indica is in news again, this time for a different reason. You will be amazed to know that this car has been running without a driver on Delhi roads. The so-called astonishing act was caught on camera by one of the call center employees. Actually, the car was being driven, but the driver was not to be seen as he was sitting in the next seat. He was apparently reading a news paper. People have their own ideas and the logic about it. Some attribute the phenomenon to a weird technology, while other to a kind of mysticism. Many went to the extreme of claiming to have seen it on other Indian cities also. But the person performing the act denies having any technology adaptation. He says that he has been doing the same for some time. It is only his acquired expertise that makes a possible driving a car from a nearby seat. Do you think it is possible to drive a car from other seat? If not? Then what? Is it expertise? Or something else? You never know an automotive technology comes up and obviates the need for a driver. What will be the use of steering wheel? Will it be replaced by some other equipment? The technology has a lot in store to startle you. It is capable changing the way you live. You will be surprised to know that it is a possibility in USA to drive a car without even touching the steering wheel. There exist some regions in the city where a computerized system takes care of the car, and parks it in the right place. You don’t have to do anything, except sitting and reading a newspaper. Labels: Automotive technology, cars-India, Indian cities, Tata Indica
Thursday, 13 December 2007
It’s great to hear that Indian highway authorities have finally become aware that highways are meant for speeding. The 65 km/h speed limit will now be raised to 100 km/h. The 65 limit km/h was a lousy speed to drive a vehicle on the highway. When earlier cars could barely manage 60 km/h, the gap was fine. But most modern vehicles can easily touch 100-120 km/h and such low speed limits are more of a hindrance. The increase in speed limit is the first since 1989. The booming car market has forced the NHAI authorities to consider the hike in speed limits. Thanks to the Golden Quadrilateral Project, this could not have been possible otherwise. The highways are crowded with pedestrians, livestock, and slow moving tractors. It would be best if NHAI designed pathways dedicated for farmers use. A fast lane without any interference can boost vehicle movement and can also contribute to the increase in the country’s economy with better and faster cars being imported more often. Article submitted by Jairaman KumarLabels: cars-India, Changing car market, Highway speed, Highway speed limits changed, Modern vehicles
Let me make it very clear. I dont blog, I dont write, I am not good with my languages...all that I am here for is letting everyone who, just in case, still does not know, that Skoda is launching its premium hatchback Fabia in india pretty soon...love the car so much that i have taken up personally an initiative to tell as many people as possible about the car...spread the word and take my word as well...it is nothing like those cars you might have driven earlier... Article submitted by NaineshLabels: cars-India, Future of Indian automobile market, New launch, Skoda Fabia
Thursday, 29 November 2007
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
Tuesday, 13 November 2007
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
Wednesday, 7 November 2007
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
Wednesday, 31 October 2007
Wide body is the proud Mahindra-Renault Logan’s trademark and slogan. After its successful market launch of Logan in India, Renault found Mahindra as a perfect partner to sell more models. Sometimes it’s more interesting to hear that Indian automakers can bring more output for foreign automakers like Renault. As a response to its success Renault recently announced that it will stick to its agreement with M&M during for the entire duration of its expansion in India. Renault’s continuing quest to completely dominate the Indian market will see the launch of second generation car models from Mahindra-Renault like Kangoo, Megane, Lagune, and Clio in the 2008 model year in India. Logan is currently posting record profits month over month. Watch out the upcoming models from Renault you can see a Mahindra-Renault signature on the rear. Labels: cars-India, Growth in Indian auto industry, Indian car market, Launch of new car in India, Leading manufacturer, Mahindra, Mahindra-Renault
Wednesday, 24 October 2007
Indian metros are overflowing with vehicles from various Indian and Foreign manufacturers. However, the demand for more and better choices is not yet satiated. Major car manufacturers are launching more and more cars to attain the top position in this jungle of automotives. As newer cars release, people expectations also rise. Price and mileage are two important aspects that the majority of Indian’s focus on. However, no one like to compromise on quality either. Almost all the manufacturers are trying to meet these expectations. Tata is first in line with its One-Lakh People’s Car. Other manufacturers like Maruti Suzuki, Chevrolet, Hyundai, and Honda are all getting ready to launch passenger cars as early as next year, so that they can stay alive in the competition. India is emerging as one of the most exuberant marketing hubs for cars of all sorts. Manufacturers have come to realize that the smart buyer is measuring all choices and therefore the more choices one manufacturer provides, the better the chances of that manufacturer surviving in this jungle. GM’s recent foothold in India has made a positive impact and the manufacturer is keen on turning India as one of its marketing centers. This sudden frenzy to capture the Indian market will see the launch of over 20 new cars early next year. It is a real dilemma for customers who had planned for a car by the end of the year. With most of the cars set to be launched in a few months, it is difficult to decide whether we should wait for the new launches or buy something which is already in the market. As far as my opinion goes, I would definitely wait! The more the cars in the market, the better the deals I get. For all I know, I could even decide to go for a model that already exists, but due to market competition, it will cost me much lesser then than it will now. Why settle for a prawn when you can get a seafood platter for the same price?!! Labels: Auto market competition, cars-India, Chevrolet, Growth in Indian auto industry, Honda, Hyundai, Imported cars, Indian car market, Launches in India, Maruti Suzuki, Tata
Wednesday, 17 October 2007
While the new season of soft roaders is in full swing, Maruti quotes the launch of its new version SUV the Suzuki Escudo. Yeah, after Grand Vitara, Maruti is working on an urban cross-country vehicle. Well, that was a quick answer from Maruti to Honda’s CRV and Hyundai’s Tucson! Finally we are going to see some tough competition in the SUV market. Could the coming days be a Suzuki SUV upstart's year? Okay, let’s check out the Suzuki Escudo. As the saying goes Escudo is expected to own a 2.0-litre petrol and a 2.7-litre diesel engine. The biggest news is that Suzuki Escudo will be a completely imported model. When it was showcased in the last Auto Expo, one look at the all-new Suzuki Escudo and it was clear that the Suzuki designers had started focusing their inspiration towards SUVs - the reasonably large and the more clean-cut lines of luxury. If you ask the Suzuki people they'll tell you that this is a second-generation of Suzuki soft-roaders. It is expected to have a prize tag of Rs. 12 - 15 lakh ex-showroom in India. Now Maruti Suzuki competes in the ever more crowded SUV field and the Grand Vitara will soon have a sibling in India. It’s up to you keen Maruti Suzuki enthusiasts to cruise on over to the nearest Maruti dealers for more news on the Suzuki Escudo and don’t forget our portal – coz we provide car info before anyone else! Labels: Car-competition, cars-India, Honda, Hyundai, Imported cars, Indian car manufacturer, Maruti Suzuki, New Car
People often think they are safer in an SUV than a Sedan or a hatchback. If you ask me I'll say that the Hummer is the safest and coolest SUV around. Agree? Sunil Shetty’s choice and a definite yes from all Indians who want a muscular and aggressive car that laughs at looks and speaks with performance! The Hummer is a South African SUV known for its ‘goes anywhere’ nature. It has a Vortec 3.7L engine that is astounding and makes off-roads simpler. Indian potholed roads will feel like butter on toast from inside this powerful animal. Hummer is on its way to India. General Motors recently announced that the Hummer H3 will launch in India sometime next year. However, GM is a little worried about the market possibilities. The general feeling is that the super premium brand vehicle will represent a niche market in India, but the current Indian market psychology leans towards small cars like the Chevy Spark. I say - come on GM, take a chance! We may wait for a while to get behind the wheels of a Hummer, but if you wait too long there are companies that will take your slice of the proverbial Indian auto market pie and the Hummer will be left high and dry! Labels: cars-India, Chevrolet, General Motors, Hummer, Imported cars, Indian car market, Launches in India, SUVs
Friday, 12 October 2007
We’re already jealous that Europeans get all the good models of the Mercedes Benz before we do, but Mercedes will soon remedy this situation by launching the Viano for us. Yes, Mercedes has done it again and this is great news for those planning to pick up a high-end luxury cab from Mercedes. Hey the multi purpose luxury cab looks truly innovative, I must say! Mercedes quoted Viano for Rs. 45 Lakh. If you are thinking about other luxury cabs available in India, I don’t think you are going to have a deja-vu in Viano. Inside Viano you can walk around and change the seating positions as per your convenience. Yeah, it might look like a crazy thing to say, but it’s true. The van has 8 seats with a sliding track mechanism that allows you to choose legroom space according to your need. In India Viano has a cheaper competitor, the Toyota Innova that is available at a prize of below 10 Lakh. However, Mercedes is a class apart! So, all you Mercedes fans, you can stop reading right now and put the Viano in your 2008 wish list. Labels: cars-India, Imported cars, Indian car market, Launches in India, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota
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