All new Audi A6 launched in India

     Audi has launched the all new A6 saloon in India with prices starting from Rs. 37.7 lakh ex-showroom, New Delhi.


     The all new A6 is available in four engine options – 2 petrol and 2 diesel. The base model with 2.0L turbo diesel pumps out 175 Bhp and a bigger 3.0L TDI churns out 242 Bhp. The petrol engines with 2.8L and 3.0L (surpercharged) capacity will deliver 201 Bhp and 296 Bhp of power respectively.

     The all new A6 gets lavish interiors which reflect the mixture of curves and lines. The new wrap around dashboard adds to the essence. The top end A6 gets the Quattro and seven-speed, S-tronic dual-clutch automatic gearbox.
Audi aims to see the all new A6 in good numbers, specially the basic model. 


     Under Rs. 40 lakh (ex-showroom), the base A6 offers tremendous value for money to customers who want to upgrade to a premium brand and at the same time looking for low running and cost. The A6 will compete with BMW 5 Series.

The prices of all new A6 variants are as follows:


Audi A6 2.0 TDI – Rs 37.7 lakh
Audi A6 2.8 FSI – Rs 38.9 lakh
Audi A6 3.0 TFSI – Rs 47 lakh
Audi A6 3.0 TDI Quattro – Rs 46.95 lakh

All new Audi A6 Engine Options:

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Nissan Sunny unveiled in India

     Nissan has unveiled its mid-sized sedan Sunny in Mumbai. The Sunny which is based on the Micra platform will bear the same name ‘Sunny’ in Indian market as well. The company plans to launch Sunny at the time of Diwali this year.

     Speaking on the occasion of Sunny unveiling, Mr. Dinesh Jain, CEO of Hover Automotive India said, “Unveiling of the Nissan Sunny today could not have been at a better time than this. We have built a chain of 40 dealerships nationwide in a period of over one year and we are on schedule to open up another 100 dealerships by the end of 2012.”

     The Nissan Sunny is the tenth generation product in Nissan Sunny history. The present model made its debut at the eight International Automobile Exhibition in China Guangzhou(China) in December last year.

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Tata Aria 4x2 launched, price starting from Rs. 11.61 lakh

     Tata Motors has launched 4x2 version of its latest SUV offering ‘Aria’ in India. The company has priced Aria 4x2 very competitively with price starting from Rs. 11.61 lakh ex-showroom New Delhi. The Aria 4x2 is available in 3 trim levels – Aria 4×2 Pure, Aria 4×2 Pleasure and Aria 4x2 Prestige. However the top of the line Pride trim level is not available in Aria 4x2.

The prices of trim levels of Tata Aria 4x2 are:


Tata Aria 4x2 Pure – Rs. 11.61 lakh
Tata Aria 4x2 Pleasure – Rs. 12.61 lakh
Tata Aria 4x2 Prestige – Rs. 14.26 lakh


     Ever since Tata Motors launched Aria in India, the sales of Aria have not picked up, mainly due to the price. With the launch of cheaper 4x2 variant Tata Motors seem to have responded to the market demand. The Aria 4x2 trim is priced Rs. 1.7 lakh as compared to the similar 4x4 variant. With this move, Tata Motors aims to push Aria sales to the next level.


On the launch of Tata Aria 4x2, Mr. P M Telang, Managing Director of Tata Motors – India Operations said, “As the first Indian 4×4 crossover, the Tata Aria has broken a new path for Tata Motors. With the introduction of the Aria 4×2, we make the range comprehensive. The pleasure of the Aria, combining the finesse of a sedan with the muscle of an SUV, can now be availed by a larger customer segment.”

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New vehicle classification from SIAM

     SAIM (Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers) has come up with a new formula for classification of cars in India. It has classified cars in India into categories namely Micro, Micro, Mini, Compact, C1, C2, D, E and F. The classification is effective from July 2011.


     The two illustrations from Maruti Suzuki shows how the vehicles have been classified and what car stand where

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Hero Honda is now Hero MotoCorp

     World’s largest two wheeler manufacturer Hero Honda Motors Ltd now becomes Hero MotoCorp Ltd. Hero Honda has officially received the necessary statutory approval from the Registrar of Companies to change the company’s name.


     Hero Honda split from Honda Motor Corporation by buying the later’s share in the company. Hero MotoCorp will unveil its brand identity in London on August 9th 2011.

Dr Brijmohan Lall, Chairman, Hero MotoCorp Ltd
“The change in name is the first big step towards further strengthening the company’s leadership in the two-wheeler industry. It marks the beginning of a new era of innovations – be it in the field of technology and product development or customer satisfaction and expanding our footprint across global markets. While I am announcing a new name for the company today, I assure you there is much more to follow. Do wait for August 9, 2011 for the unveiling of the brand new identity of Hero MotoCorp Ltd and the excitement that will unfold in the near future.”

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2012 Renault Twingo facelift revealed

     Renault has revealed the the 2012 Twingo facelift. The next generation Twingo will be unveiled at Frankfurt Motor Show this year and will go no sale next year.


     The new Twingo features a big Renault logo in the front, a big grill and additional bumper mounted head lamps. The 2012 Twingo’s design signals a new design paradigm for Renault.


     Renault’s small car for India will be shown at the Auto Expo 2012 in January next year. Since the outline of the car which is shown in Renault India’s website resembles that of the Twingo (tall stance), we expect lots sharings between the two cars.

Source: worldcarfans

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Chevrolet launches Beat diesel, priced at Rs. 4.29 lakh

     Chevrolet has launched its much anticipated diesel Beat with an introductory price of Rs. 4.29 lakh ex-showroom, New Delhi. This makes Beat diesel the cheapest diesel car in the country.


     The diesel Beat is powered by a 3 cylinder 1 liter diesel engine which has been developed specifically for India by GM’s Technical center in Bangalore in association with GM Powertrain Europe. This is also GMs smallest diesel engine yet far.


     Chevrolet also hinted that the company is planning to launch a diesel powered ‘Spark’ with little modifications. The launch of diesel small cars opens a new era for General Motors in India. The company is banking on this engine for its future growth in the country. And why not, a small diesel engine is what the people of India were waiting for.

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New Maruti Swift launch on 17th August

     Maruti Suzuki will launch the new Swift of 17th of August 2011. The company has already started bookings for the new Swift. The new Swift will be priced slightly more than the current model.


     With the launch of the new Swift, an era of 2nd generation Swift will start in India. Swift has been highly successful car in India with over 10 lakh vehicles sold since it was launched in 2005. The muscular look and a brilliant engine did the trick for apprehensive Maruti Suzuki which was slowly losing its share to the new car launches.

     The new Swift sports some new features which make it unmatched value for money, of course if the price hike is minimal. The new features have been carried from the International Swift which are - Push button start, Electric operated outside rear view mirrors, Electric folding rear view mirrors, USB, Aux port, Bluetooth connectivity, Steering mounted audio controls, Climate control, 15-inch wheels, Rear wiper washer demister, Xenon headlights and Sunroof (Optional). A 4 speed automatic variant is also on the cards, though it will be only in the petrol Swift. A new ZDi variant will also be launched which was not present in the earlier swift.

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Ford to unveil Focus sedan at Auto Expo 2012

     Auto Expo 2012 will be a much bigger event compared to the earlier Auto Shows in India. Many car companies are lining up their new launches at the Auto Expo 2012 which will be held in January 2012 at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.

     The Ford Focus sedan is one of the vehicles which will be unveiled for the first time in India. Ford has already started testing the Focus sedan on Indian soil. The spy pictures of the Focus sedan testing in India has come up in the net. The Focus sedan will be positioned above the All new Fiesta and will be priced around Rs. 15 to 17 lakh. It will take on the new VW Jetta, new Sonata, Toyota Corolla Altis, Honda Civic, Renault Fluence and Chevrolet Cruze in the segment.

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Ferrari announces its international design contest winner

     Italian sports car manufacturer Ferrari has officially announced the winner of its international design contest. The Eternità concept designed by students from South Korea’s Hongik University has won the contest beating students from IED Turin and RCA London in a close encounter.


     The Eternità concept is a futuristic roadster with aerodynamic styling, a wraparound windscreen and aggressive side skirts. The concepts from IED Turin and RCA London were Xezri and Cavallo Bianco concepts.

     Ferrari chairman Luca di Montezemolo applauded the passion and commitment of the youngsters who took part in the competition and was overwhelmed by the talent shown by them. He also said that the suggestion from these students would come to light in the future Ferraris.

Source: Worldcarfans

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Daimler launches its Financial Services in India

     German luxury automobile Daimler AG has launched its Financial Services unit in India. The Daimler Financial Service is a 100% owned subsidiary of Daimler AG and is headquartered in Chennai.

     The Daimler Financial Services is formed with an initial investment of US $50 million. The investment is expected to be increased to US $500 million in the next five years. The company offers Finance and insurance offers to its customers and dealers.


     The company plans to launch a financial service to BharatBenz in 2012. BharatBenz is a subsidiary of Daimler AG aimed at commercial vehicles in India.


Official Press release:


Daimler AG today announced the official launch of its Financial Services unit in India. Headquartered in Chennai, Daimler Financial Services India is a 100% subsidiary of Daimler AG.


“Two out of five Mercedes-Benz cars and every fourth commercial vehicle of the Daimler group worldwide is financed or leased by Daimler Financial Services. We intend to replicate this success story in India as soon as possible”, commented Mr. Klaus Entenmann, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler Financial Services AG. “Daimler Financial Services aims to reach a contract volume of USD 500 million in India in five years”, he added.


Daimler Financial Services operates in 40 countries worldwide. With a contract volume of Euro 63.7 billion at the end of 2010, it is one of the world’s largest automotive financial services providers for passenger cars and the world’s largest provider of financing for trucks, buses and vans. Furthermore it provides automotive insurance solutions with a contract portfolio of more than 1.8 million contracts. The new subsidiary in India is registered as Daimler Financial Services India Pvt Ltd. The company offers comprehensive finance, leasing and insurance products to customers and dealers of Mercedes-Benz cars in India under the brand ‘Mercedes-Benz Financial’ with immediate effect.


“In 2010, we sold more than 5.800 units in India, nearly double of our previous year’s sales figure. The luxury car market in India and Mercedes-Benz India in particular is on a dynamic growth path. With 75% of Indian car customers opting for vehicle finance, our financial services solutions and innovative products will be a catalyst in the purchase process. It is here that Mercedes-Benz Financial with seamless integration across all our dealerships will play a pivotal role”, says Mr. Peter Honegg, Managing Director & CEO of Mercedes-Benz India.


By 2012, Daimler’s truck brand BharatBenz is expected to be operational. Daimler Financial Services will then also support sales with financial services for BharatBenz. Daimler Financial Services has announced an initial investment of USD 50 million as part of its market entry and has put in place an electronic point-of-sales system to deliver speedy loan approval decisions and contract processing across all Mercedes-Benz dealerships. With 50 experienced industry professionals already on board and more to join soon, Daimler Financial Services India has set out for itself an ambitious growth path and a robust business outlook. Right from the beginning Daimler Financial Services India will offer a motor insurance product that was developed together with the strategic partner Bajaj Allianz.


Mr. Sidhartha Nair, Managing Director of Daimler Financial Services India, elaborated further: “We want to be the first choice provider of financial services products for our dealers and customers in India in the near term. Our one-stop solution for customers who buy a vehicle and demand finance and insurance in a quick and efficient manner will differentiate us from others.”

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Tata Safari Merlin spied without camouflage

     We came across the rear picture of the soon to be launched Tata Safari Merlin without camouflage. The picture of the Merlin below shows you the mod job on the rear with a new set of tail lamps, rear bumpers and the tail gate. You can see a chrome strip running almost on the middle of the tail gate. Aslo seen are twin chrome exhausts.


     Just by seeing the tailgate we get a feeling that Tatas have taken lot of design cues from Land Rover. The flat back almost squarish proportions remind us of the LR Discovery 3. The door handles now get chrome and the most important features is the absence of spare tyre on the tail gate. Since we have seen the vehicle without camouflage, the launch of Safari Merilin is around the corner.

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New Maruti Swift teaser site up

     Maruti Suzuki stopped production of the old swift last week and announced the launch of the new Swift in the month of August. Even the customers who have booked the old Swift were given option to change to the new Swift with a privilege that is, if they opt for the new Swift, they will be considered first among the new buyers, something like jumping in the que.

     Maruti has come up with a teaser site, which in fact is the original site of the Maruti Swift which now displays the new Swift in the background with a tag – Hold your breath little longer, coming soon the new Swift.


     The website also has a drag drop slider showing the exterior and interior of the new Swift. The slider gives you 20 seconds to form the exterior and the interior of the new Swift.


     The website also has a link which leads to the page describing the evolution of the car. Here is the link to evolution of the Swift.

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2012 Honda CR-V more spy pictures emerge

     The next generation Honda CR-V which is expected to be launched in 2012 is the hot topic among automobile discussions. We managed to get the spy pictures of the 2012 Honda CR-V from MotorAuthority website. Though the vehicle has been camouflaged heavily, the rear tail light suggest that it is indeed the 2012 Honda CR-V. In our earlier post we had posted the spy pictures of the CR-V and also the teaser website of Honda USA which said 2012 Honda CR-V is coming soon. Have a look at the spy pictures.... and say what you think. 

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Toyota to make Etios in Brazil by 2012

     World’s number one automobile manufacturer Toyota plans to make Eitos in Brazil by 2012. The Etios was tailor made car for India and emerging markets like Brazil.


     Toyota said it will be setting up a plant in Brazil to make Etios small car with a capacity of 70,000 units per annum. Over 4000 engineers from Toyota spent 5 years to develop Etios.


     Toyota received overwhelming response by its customers in India for Etios sedan. With the launch of Etios hatchback, Toyota is aiming to dominate the Indian market as well.

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Hindustan Motors conducting a road show

     India’s oldest car maker Hindustan Motors is conducting a 15 day road show to connect with it customers. During the road show the company will showcase its existing product base and future models. The road show will cover Assam (Guwahati), West Bengal (Durgapur, Siliguri and Asansol), Orissa (Bhubaneswar, Puri, Sambalpur and Bargarh) and Bihar (Patna, Hazipur and surrounding areas).


     The existing models of the company include age old Ambassador and a new LCV Winner. The company will also showcase the new shortened Ambassador which now comes under 4 meters length to get small car excise duty.

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Ford launches all New Global Fiesta sedan in India

     Ford India has launched its all new global Fiesta sedan in India priced at Rs. 8.23 to Rs. 9.27 lakh, ex-showroom, New Delhi. The global Fiesta will be available in both petrol and diesel options.

     Both the petrol and diesel engine have 1.5L capacity with 108 Bhp and 90 Bhp power respectively. The petrol engine is basically the scaled down version of 1.6L which powers the Fiesta Classic. It now comes with Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) which boosts the engine power. The diesel motor is again the enlarged version of 1.4L Duratech engine and now comes with an intercooler. The diesel engine produces 90 Bhp of power and 20.8 Kgm of torque. Both the engines are coupled to a 5 speed manual transmission.


     Ford claims the all new Fiesta will give class leading fuel efficieny of 17 Kmpl for petrol and 23.5 Kmpl for diesel under ARAI test conditions. 

All New Ford Fiesta Specifications

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Indian Govt. to establish 2 more automotive manufacturing hubs in India

     The Govt. of India will establish two new automotive manufacturing hubs in India, one each in central and eastern India. The hubs combined will have over 10,000 acres of area.


     Currently Haryana, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu are the main automotive manufacturing zones in India. The move is aimed at consolidating India’s position as important destination for low cost automotive production.

Praful Patel, Minister for Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises -
"There is need to make India cost competitive and a large-scale manufacturing destination that would help it emerge as a front-runner for low-cost production globally."

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Chevrolet Beat diesel Brochure leaked

     Chevrolet will launch the diesel powered beat very soon and ahead of its launch we managed to find the diesel Beat’s Brochure leaked and posted on Team-Bhp forum. As seen in the brochure, the Beat will be powered by Chevrolet’s Smartech diesel engine which the company claims to deliver fuel efficiency of 24 Kmpl.


About the Engine:


     The Chevrolet’s Smartech diesel engine is a 3 cylinder, 1 liter, common rail diesel injection with power of 58PS @ 4000 rpm and torque of 150 Nm @ 1750 rpm. It has Dual head camshaft and Turbocharger with intercooler. You also find an exhaust gas recirculation in it.

Source: Team-BHP

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Mahindra to launch two new variants of Verito by December 2011

     Mahindra will launch two new variants of its lone sedan Vertio by December this year. While one variant will be just a refreshed one of the current Verito, the other one will be the hatchback version.


     The Verito hatchback has been designed to come under 4 meters to avail small car benefits. With solid Mahindra brand coupled with interior space of Verito and a good 1.5L Renault diesel engine, the Verito hatchback will give serious competition in the already crowded B segment category.

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