Toyota Innova and Fortuner facelift India launch at Auto Expo 2012

     Toyota will launch the facelifted Innova and Fortuner at the Auto Expo 2012. The facelifted Innova and Fortuner were spied testing on Bangalore roads few days ago. The Innova facelift includes changes in the headlamps, front bumper, grill and tail lamps. The head lamps are sharper now which extends further to the fenders. However there will be no change in the mechanicals. In the Fortuner again you see some cosmetic changes in the front and rear. The only change will be an addition of automatic transmission 4x2 variant.

     With these changes, Toyota wants to keep Innova and Fortuner look fresh to compete with new MUV/ SUV launches. Of late Toyota is feeling the heat from competitors especially from Mahindra. Mahindra launched XUV500 with a surprising price which is 5-6 lakh cheaper than the Fortuner.  With Chevrolet Maruti and Nissan coming up with new MUVs, the Innova dominance is put to test. But since Innova has proved its mettle it will be difficult for any new vehicle to compete with it. 

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Suzuki Regina city car concept

     Suzuki has unveiled an all new Regina city car concept in Japan. The Regina concept will be placed just below the Swift. With this concept, Suzuki shows its company’s vision for next generation compact cars which will be more fuel efficiency and environmental friendly. The Regina concept displays Suzuki’s latest technology in reducing weight and improving efficiency by superior aerodynamics.

     The Regina city car concept weighs 730 Kg and seats 4 persons. It is 3550mm long, 1630mm wide and 1430mm tall and has a 2425mm wheelbase. The interiors will be minimalistic with highlight of green all over. Fuel efficiency as claimed by Suzuki is a class leading with 32 Kmpl.

     The Regina city car concept will be showed at the Tokyo Motor Show in December this year.

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Cars to be launched at Auto Expo 2012!

     The Auto Expo 2012 being held at New Delhi in January next year will be a fascinating auto show. Automobile manufacturers in India as well as world over is expected to bring their latest products to the show, most of which will be launched in India. There will launches in almost all the segment and fuel efficiency with environmental friendly theme will be the highlight of the show.

Here are some of the expected launches at the Auto Expo 2012

Sedans

Ford Fiesta 2011 Automatic Transmission

Chevrolet Cruze 2012

Honda City Facelifted

Maruti Swift Dzire Compact Sedan 2012

Mahindra Verito Low Cost Compact Sedan

Tata Indigo Manza Compact Sedan (CS)

Honda Civic Facelift 2012

Hyundai i45 / Sonata 2012

Audi A3 Low Cost Luxury Sedan

Audi A4 Facelift 2013

Audi S Series – S6, S7 and S8

Fiat Linea 2012 Facelifted

Chevrolet Sail Sedan 2012

Hatchbacks

Renault Pulse Small Car Based on Nissan Micra

Fiat Grande Punto 2012

Chevrolet Sail Hatchback 2012

SUV & MPV

Maruti R3 Production MPV – Maruti Ertiga

Honda CRV 2012

Tata Safari Merlin

Renault Duster

Audi Q3

Ford EcoSport

Hyundai Compact SUV

Nissan NV200 MPV India

Toyota Innova 2012

Force Motor MPV Based on Mercedes Viano

Mini Xylo

Two Wheeler and Bike

Yamaha Scooters

New TVS Apache RTR

KTM Duke 200 CC Sports Bike

Concept Vehicles

Suzuki Regina Concept Mini Car

Maruti Suzuki SUV Concept

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Mahindra Scorpio LX 4x4 launched at Rs. 9.17 lakh

     Mahindra has launched a four wheel drive variant of Scorpio LX at Rs. 9.17 lakh ex-showroom, New Delhi.  There are no external changes to the vehicle except for the badge.  This new variant features a free rotating hub. Powering the Mahindra Scorpio LX 4x4 will the 2.2 liter mHawk CRDe powerplant which produces 120 hp of peak power and 290 Nm of peak torque. The engine is mated to a five speed manual gear box.

List of features on the Scorpio LX 4×4

•    Immobilizer

•    Tilt power steering

•    Four wheel drive lever

•    Rood rack

•    On the move 4×2 to 4×4 shift functionality

•    Power windows

•    Central locking

•    Tubeless tyres

•    Rear spoiler

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Chevrolet Sail spied in India

     Chevrolet’s new B plus segment hatchback ‘Sail’ has been spied in India. The Sail will replace the existing Chevrolet U-VA and a sedan version of Sail is also expected which will replace the Aveo sedan.  

     The Sail hatch has been designed nicely unlike the U-VA. The well proportionate front and rear ends have been designed to give a big car feel. The side profile also gives roominess to the car. In the rear, the tall tail lamps embedded in the D pillar make the Sail look like a MUV.

     When launched, the Sail will get Beat’s 1.2 liter petrol engine and a 1.3 liter Multi Jet diesel will come after an year. Chevrolet will display the Sail hatch and sedan at the upcoming Auto Expo 2012. 

Picture Source: Zigwheels & Autocarindia

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Kia Picanto spied testing in Chennai

     We guess Kia is the last company in the world to launch its car in India, and guess what? Kia Motors of South Korea has been found testing its Picanto small car in Chennai. Kia is less a known automobile company world over. But the fact is, it is the second largest automobile manufacturer in South Korea next to Hyundai. In fact Hyundai partly owns the Kia Motors.

     The Kia Picanto (which is also know as Kia Morning) seen in the picture is a left hand drive one which might have been imported to India for testing as red temporary number plates are seen. The Picanto is very similar in construction with the Hyundai i10 but has a different design theme. The Picanto very well sits in the entry B segment category in India which means, when it is launched, it will be priced around Rs. 5 lakh. A diesel Picanto could be a game changer in the segment but we guess it will happen less likely.

     The Picanto has a bold front end with tall bumpers and high bonnet. The side profiles nothing but reminds us of the Hyundai i10 and to some extent the Eon. The rear of the car is something which makes it different. The C shaped tail lamps and scooped boot are the differential highlights of this car.  We guess the Picanto will definitely make it at the Auto Expo 2012. 

Picture Source: riotengine

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Skoda Yeti 4x2 launched in India at Rs. 13.2 lakh

     Sensing the market requirement, Skoda has launched 4x2 version of its mini SUV Yeti in India priced at Rs. 13.2 lakh. Skoda had earlier launched Yeti 4x4 in India with a price tag of over Rs. 18 lakh. Because of the high price tag for a small SUV, Yeti though being a good vehicle could not make a good impression in the Indian market.

     Now with 4x2 version, Skoda plans to revive the Yeti brand. The Yeti 4x2 come in 2 variants – Active & Ambition. The Ambition variant contains all the goodies such as ESP, Hill hold control and Vario Flex.

     The Yeti 4x2 Active is available at Rs. 13,20,970 and Ambition at Rs. 14,05,379 (Both prices ex-showroom, Maharashtra). Five colour options are available - Aqua Mist, Brilliant Silver, Candy White, Cappuccino Beige, Agic Black, Mato Brown. The fuel efficiency of Yeti 4x2 has improved to 17.72 Kmpl.

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Volkswagen Up spied in India, could be for Auto Expo 2012

     Volkswagen Up which was unveiled at Frankfurt Motor Show this year has been spotted in Delhi, mounted on a truck. Mr Sandeep Singh has posted these images on NDTV’s Car And Bike facebook page. We guess the car has been imported from Europe for the coming Auto Expo 2012.

     The Up is the smallest car in Volkswagen’s portfolio which the company plans to launch in India soon, ofcourse in 5 door version unlike the 3 door one seen in the picture. Price of the Up is expected to start from Rs. 3.5 lakh. The Up unveiled at Frankfurt Motor Show had a 1 litre petrol engine with 75 Ps of power and 23 Kmpl of fuel efficiency. A diesel option, it is still a secret. 

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Scoop: Renault Duster spied in India

     The Renault’s SUV for India, the Duster has been spied for first time in India. According to Renault’s Indian website, the Duster will be launched in India in September next year, which means we see Duster on Indian roads by March-April 2012. The Duster will be Renault’s 4th launch after Fluence, Koleos and Pulse. The Pulse small car which is based on Nissan Micra will be officially launched at Auto Expo 2012 in January.


     The Duster is a key vehicle in Renault’s Indian portfolio. The current launches – Fluence and Koleos have not made a good impact on the Indian customers, thanks to their high prices and slump in car sales. This leaves Renault to depend heavily on the Pulse and Duster. Since Pulse is just a facelift of Nissan Micra, we doubt it will have anything to turn around Renault’s fortune. The only vehicle which according to us can keep the Renault on a success path is the Duster, but of course if Renault prices Duster sensibly.

     Now coming back to the spy picture of the Duster, Autocarindia could manage to get couple of snaps which the SUV was undergoing test runs. We have often seen car manufacturers test their new vehicles with camouflage in India before it is launched. There was a speculation about Duster’s launch in India, but since it has been spied here, it is definitely going to be launched in India.


     According to Autocarindia, the Duster will be available in 5 variants. The base variant will come with a 1.6 L petrol engine and is likely to be priced at Rs. 7 lakh. There will be two versions of diesel engine, both with 1.5L capacity (currently powering the Fluence) but with different power outputs. An entry level diesel variant will have 85 Bhp output where as the top of the line variant will get 110 Bhp output engine.

     Since the Duster is based on Logan platform, it will have the same interiors and switches of the Logan. But we guess Renault redesign the Duster interior to keep it fresh and attractive. The Duster will not come into under 4 meter length mark, so it will not have any excises sops. But according to sources, the Duster range in India will be priced between Rs. 7 -11 lakh. Let’s wait and see what Renault does.

Picture Source: Autocarindia

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Tata Motors comes up with upgraded Nano

     The People’s car of India has just got better. Tata Motors has come up with an upgraded model of Nano with some changes in the interiors and mechanicals.  After series of attractive offers and discounts, this is the first major upgrade for Nano since its launch in March 2009. The upgraded Nano has already reached the dealers across the country and the best part is Tata Motors has not increased the price of the car.

     The upgraded Nano (also referred to as 2012 Nano) gets following beige dashboard, improved cushioned seats with new head rest at front, beige and black door trims, passenger side outside rear view mirror and new wheel caps. Apart from these cosmetic changes, engine power has been increased by 3 bhp which means Tata Nano now produces 38 bhp power as compared to earlier 35 bhp. There is no power steering option which was expected in an upgraded Nano. But Tata Motors have worked on the steering column to make the Nano steering much more lighter.

     The upgrade Nano will be available in new colour shades. Here are the colour options available on different variants.

Nano Std

Serene White (Old Shade: Ivory White)

Aqua Blue (Old Shade: Summer Blue)

Rouge Red (Old Shade: Racing Red)

Nano CX

Serene White (Old Shade: Ivory White)

Rouge Red (Old Shade: Racing Red)

Meteor Silver (Old Shade: Lunar Silver)

Champagne Gold

Papaya Orange

Neon Rush

Nano LX

Papaya Orange

Meteor Silver (Old Shade: Lunar Silver)

Champagne Gold

Mojito Green

Sunshine Yellow

Pearl White

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Nissan working on 2 cars below Micra for India

     Nissan with its hatchback Micra has had a good success in India. In fact Micra is one of the best cars in its segment with class leading performance and fuel efficiency. However the Micra’s price is a let down with Rs. 7.8 lakh on road for top end variant why would anyone go for it when then can get a Swift or Etios Liva for a good lakh rupee cheaper.

     Nissan is now planning to utilize its V-Platform (V-Versatile) for sub Micra cars in India. One will be an Alto challenger and the other one will positioned just below the Micra. More details about these two cars is still remove and we will bring in the latest news as we come across. Stay tuned to Automobile Planet. 

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Tata Y1 Light Commercial Truck spied

     The next generation Tata Y1 light commercial trucks have been spied. The Tata Y1 LCVs will replace the Tata 407 and 708 EX series which gave phenomenal success to Tata Motors.  The Y1 series of light commercial vehicles come in 4-9 ton capacity range with a 11 ton truck possibility cannot be ruled out. Developed at Tata Motor’s Pimpri plant, the Y1 series of light commercial trucks will be manufactured at Tata’s Dharwad plant.

     The Y1 series of light commercial trucks will feature improved driver ergonomics which will reduce driver fatigue and consequently accidents. Apart from driver ergonomics there is possibility of bringing in CRDi turbo charged and intercooled engine to the lineup which will boost the truck’s performance and fuel efficiency. The Y1 series of light commercial trucks will be displayed at the 2012 Auto Expo.

Tata Y1 Series of Light Commercial Trucks

* Tata Y1 Series LPT 410

* Tata Y1 Series LPT 712

* Tata Y1 Series LPT 812

* Tata Y1 Series LPT 912

* Tata Y1 Series LPT 1112

Picture Source: Indiancarsbikes

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All new Tata Sumo Gold launched at Rs. 5.23 lakh

     Tata Motors has launched the all new Sumo Gold with price starting from Rs. 5.23 lakh (ex-showroom Pune). The all new Tata Sumo Gold is the most powerful vehicle in its category with a 3.0 L diesel engine. The 3.0L diesel engine - CR4 Turbo - BS4 and Di Turbo BS3 has two different power outputs of 85Ps @ 3000 rpm and a torque of 250Nm @ 1000 to 2000 rpm and 70PS @ 3000 rpm and a torque of 225Nm @ 1600 to 2000 rpm respectively.

All new Tata Sumo Gold Key Highlights

Equipped with the new technologically advanced, BS4 3.0L diesel CR4 engine, delivering 85 PS power for enhanced driving pleasure. Also available in turbo engine.

Best in class 250 Nm torque, for excellent power and reduced gear shifts.

New generation styling with luxurious upholstery.

Smoother transmission.

Softened suspension for better ride quality.

Best in class, small turning radius of 4.9m.

Tallest vehicle in its category, with class leading seating space & comfort for all occupants.

Tata Sumo Gold, Mr. R. Ramakrishnan, Vice President, Commercial - PCBU, Tata Motors –

"The Tata Sumo Gold is a result of extensive consumer studies and field tests. The product has been designed to fulfil various requirements, long-awaited by the new generation customer."

All new Tata Sumo Gold Features & Specifications

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Skoda Rapid microsite goes live, car launch on 16th November

     Skoda Auto will launch its new midsize sedan in India on the 16^th of this month. As the launch date comes closer, there Skoda Rapid’s microsite goes live. However you will not get many details about the car as of now.

     Skoda Rapid is based on Volkswagen Vento platform and shares the same engines with the later. The Skoda Rapid will come in 3 variants - Active, Ambition and Elegance. Since there is sharing of platform, Skoda might have saved much of the cost which is expected to be passed on to the customer. The Rapid is likely to be priced between Rs. 7-9 lakh.

     The Rapid in the front reminds us of the Fabia hatch with its prominent Skoda grill. The rest of the car is Vento, as we have said earlier that Rapid shares its platform with the Vento. Only in the rear, the crease on the sides of number plate gives some differentiation with the Vento.

     The strategy between Skoda and Volkswagen is not still understood. They both have a same car with different names and of course will come with different price tags. How will Skoda and Volkswagen convince the customer to buy their own product? Let us see how this strategy works in India. 

Check out the Skoda Rapid microsite

Skoda Rapid Video

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2012 Toyota Camry spied in India

     If you think we are mentioning about the US spec Camry, you are wrong. Toyota is testing its next generation global model Camry in India. The spy pictures of the 2012 Camry was taken near Toyota’s plant in Bidadi, outskirts of Bangalore.

     The 2012 Camry looks very similar to the current model from its dimensions. However there will be some changes in the front and rear in the form of redesigned head and tail lamps, bumper and the grill. Interiors have also been tweaked to stay with the time.


     Expect the 2012 Camry to reach Toyota dealers by August 2012. We feel Toyota should come up with new pricing and marketing strategies to push Camry sales in India. The current Camry is priced too high and no wonder we see very little Camrys on Indian roads.


     Currently Toyota is focusing on positioning the Etios and Etios Liva in a suitable position as the segments they are in area already crowded. Since the B+ and entry level C segment is the most happening one, Toyota will divert its all attention on Etios twins rather than thinking much about Camry.

Picture Source: Indianautosblog

2012 Toyota Camry

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Tata Winger CNG spied

     Tata Motors is best at tapping the untapped market. The success of Ace mini van is a classic example and the Nano is doing its best live upto the expectations. Tata Motors bought the dyes of the Renault Traffic mini van and launched the vehicle in India as the Tata Winger. Tata Winger has been a successful vehicle with the call center cabbies switching to it from the old Qualis and Taveras.


     The CNG version of the Winger mini van was spied testing near Tata Motors Pune factory. Currently the Winger is available in 2 diesel engine options with 68 bhp and 90 bhp outputs. The Winger is also available with various seating configurations ranging from 9 to 13 seats. Tata Motors by bring in the CNG version aims to reduce the operational cost of the Winger as most of the vehicles are owned by the drivers themselves who would be defiantly benefited with the low maintenance. And being CNG the Winger will be more eco friendly as well.

Picture Source: Indiancarsbikes

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All New Ford Fiesta gets dual clutch automatic gearbox

     Ford India has launched another variant of its latest sedan All New Ford Fiesta with a 6 speed dual clutch Powershift automatic gearbox. However the automatic gearbox option is available only in top of the line petrol variant. The All New Ford Fiesta is the first sedan in C segment to get a dual clutch automatic gearbox which is otherwise seen in D segment cars like Skoda Laura and Volkswagen Jetta.


     The Powershift automatic gearbox has received lot of applause world over because of its performance and fuel efficiency. Earlier, the automatic gearbox was perceived as more fuel consuming but with the new technology, the Powershift automatic deliver fuel efficiency which is higher than the manual ones.

All New Ford Fiesta Specifications

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Range Rover Evoque launched in India

     Land Rover launched its latest compact SUV Range Rover Evoque in India on 4th November 2011, priced at Rs. 44.75 lakh (ex-showroom, Mumbai). The Range Rover Evoque is available in 3 and 5 door options. The Range Rover Evoque is available in both petrol and diesel options. The petrol variant come in only one trim level – Dynamic where as the diesel variant comes in 3 trim levels – Pure, Prestige and Dynamic.

Range Rover Evoque Features in India

• Bold and sophisticated in design
• Optimizes performance and capability in all on and off-road conditions
• Terrain Response technology – adapts Range Rover Evoque’s engine, transmission and electronic systems to maximize drivability, comfort and traction
• Terrain Response settings: General Driving, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Mud & Ruts and Sand
• State-of-the-art connectivity
• Bluetooth for both hands free connection
• Connectivity for iPod, MP3 and USB memory stick
• Sound System by “Meridian” – a world leader in audio technologies and digital sound processing
• 380W Meridian Sound System features 12 channels and 11 loudspeakers including a dual-channel subwoofer
• Rear Seat Entertainment System (Optional) has the ability to play high quality DVD Video and route it through the 8-inch screens located in the back of the front headrests as well as to the front seat passenger’s display on the Touch-screen

Range Rover Evoque exterior colours available in India

• Fuji White
• Indus Silver
• Santorini Black
• Galway Green
• Orkeny Grey
• Sumatra Black
• Impanema Sand
• Firenze Red
• Colima Lime
• Baltic Blue
• Buckingham Blue

Range Rover Evoque interior trim options available in India

• Almont
• Cirrus
• Ebony
• Ambience
• Couture
• Element
• Spirit
• Vibe
• Energy
• Pursuit
• Verve
• Vortex

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India car market sales data for October 2011

Chevrolet
Spark – 1782
Beat – 5315
Aveo-UVA – 68
Aveo – 98
Optra – 235
Cruze – 732
Tavera – 1679
Captiva - 100


Fiat
Punto – 495
Linea – 127


Ford
Figo – 5689
Fiesta Classic – 1549
Fiesta – 608
Endeavour – 245


HM-Mitsubishi
Ambassador – 161
Lancer & Cedia – 30
Pajero – 150
Outlander – 41
Montero – 3
EVO-X – 0


Honda
Brio – 1220
Jazz – 463
City – 3376
Civic – 281
Accord – 172
CR-V – 14


Hyundai
Eon – 6315
Santro – 3141
I10 – 11557
I20 – 6834
Accent – 745
Verna – 4217
Sonata – 2
Santa Fe – 190


Mahindra
Verito – 1818
Bolero – 8082
Xylo – 2431
Scorpio – 4173
SUV500 – 1213


Maruti Suzuki
800 – 1601
Omni – 5500
Alto -15197
Eeco – 4496
Estilo – 715
Wagon R – 7934
A-Star – 277
Ritz – 2299
Swift – 7511
Dzire – 7845
SX4 – 320
Gypsy – 270
Kizashi – 3
Grand Vitara – 0


Nissan
Micra – 1619
Sunny – 1340
X-Trail – 16
Teana – 15
370Z – 0


Porsche
Boxter – 1
Cayman – 0
911 – 0
Cayenne – 30
Panamera - 0


Skoda Auto
Fabia – 1400
Laura – 406
Yeti – 103
Superb – 225


Tata Motors
Nano – 3868
Indica +Vista – 10812
Indigo+Manza – 6238
Sumo – 2109
Safari – 1263
Aria – 438
Venture – 366


Toyota
Liva – 2454
Etios – 3405
Innova – 3411
Corolla – 700
Fortuner – 763
Camry – 4
Prius – 1
Prado – 16
Landcruiser – 8


Volkswagen
Polo – 3340
Vento – 3474
Jetta – 373
Passat – 63
Beetle – 16

Soruce: Team-Bhp

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