Fiat Punto Sports Launching Tomorrow

Fiat India will launch the Punto 90 HP Sports version on May 18^th, 2012. The Punto 90 HP Sports will likely be offered only in the top-end Emotion variant and may be priced Rs. 30,000 (approx.) more than the regular Punto (75 Bhp) diesel Emotion variant which is priced at Rs. 6.84 lakh.

The Punto 90 HP Sport version is expected to come with cosmetic changes like chrome accented interiors, chrome exhaust tip, specially stitched gear knob,  gear lever cover, color coded ORVMs, door sills with ‘Punto’ letters embossed and ‘Sport’ branded body decals. The 90 HP Sports version will likely be made available in three colors namely, bossa nova white, exotica red and hip hop black.

Punto Sports at Auto Expo 2012
The Punto 90 HP Sports version will be powered by a 1.3-litre Multijet diesel motor that puts out 91.7 Bhp (93 PS) of power and 209 Nm of torque unlike the ordinary Punto which is powered by a 1.3-litre Multijet diesel motor that puts out 74.9 Bhp (76 PS) of power and 197 Nm of torque.
Performance wise, the Punto 90 HP offers more power on tap but still exhibits a turbo lag below 2,000 rpm and hence to keep the engine in the power band, frequent gear shifts are needed in city driving conditions.
Out on the highway, the Punto 90 HP performs better than the Punto (75 Bhp) as it accelerates faster to reach three digit speeds and it also has a better power-to-weight ratio, improving the mileage a little. The claimed mileage of the Punto 90 HP is 20.5 Kmpl which is slightly better than the claimed mileage of Punto which is 20.3 Kmpl.
Fiat launched the Punto 90 HP in the year 2010 and the car attracted a few enthusiasts who wanted more power and torque on the Punto diesel to fully exploit its handling characteristics.  In 2012, Fiat gave a minor cosmetic facelift and launched the 2012 Punto. And now, Fiat is gearing up to launch the Punto 90 HP Sports edition on May 18^th with cosmetic upgrades, targeting enthusiasts who are looking for powerful diesel hatchbacks.

Mercedes Benz M Class

Mercedes-Benz India has launched the new 2012 M-Class SUV priced at Rs. 56.9 lakh for the ML350 CDI variant and Rs. 66 lakh for the limited AMG edition. The M-Class will be made available to customers from July 2012 onwards, while the limited edition, of which only 100 will be made, is on sale now.

The new M-Class looks clean, sharper and more elegant than its predecessor. The new M-Class is 23 mm longer and 15 mm wider than the outgoing model. The interiors of the new M-Class have many changes such as redesigned AC vents, new central console layout and refreshed instrument cluster.

The ML350 is powered by a 3-litre, six-cylinder, common-rail diesel motor that puts out 258 Bhp of power and 619 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a 7-gtronic (7-speed) automatic transmission. The new ML 350 can accelerate from 0 – 100 Kmph in 7.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 224 Kmph.

The new M-Class comes with a long list of standard equipment such as ECO start/stop function, reversing camera, active parking assist, airmatic suspension, tail lights featuring LED fiber-optic technology, attention assist feature, memory seats, thermotronic auto climate control, media interface,  electric parking brake and electric sliding sunroof. The airmatic suspension has an auto leveling feature which keeps the vehicle at the same level no matter what load it is carrying. It also allows the driver to select various comfort settings of the suspension.

The M-Class features an all-wheel drive system with selectable low-range gearbox as well for challenging off-road conditions. It can handle tarmac and testing off-road conditions with equal ease. The M-Class will face stiff competition from the segment leader, Audi Q7 and the BMW X5.

Nissan Murano Launching Soon

The Japan based auto manufacturer, Nissan is planning to launch its latest mid-size SUV (Sports Utility Vehicle), Nissan Murano in Indian market. Nissan might launch this SUV by 2012. With the launch of Nissan Murano, Nissan intends to tap into the potential offered by the growing SUV market of India. The Nissan Murano price falls in the range of Rs 35,00,000 

This stylish mid-size crossover SUV, Nissan Murano, was unveiled in December 2002 and thereafter it was reworked a number of times to make it up-to-date. The second generation of the Nissan Murano launched in the  year 2007 and was available for sale in the year 2008. The company launched a new version in 2009 and in 2010 as well. The company had introduced its first crossover Nissan Murano in US and Canada with a 3.5 litre, DOHC, V6 petrol engine that is still being sold with some upgradation. On the other hand, the mid-size SUV - Nissan Murano - is available with both petrol and diesel engine in the UK. In India, the petrol 3.5 litre engine is highly expected.

The Nissan Murano is equipped with 3.5L, 24-valve, SOHC, V6, petrol engine. Its powerful powerplant produces 252 bhp power at 6000 rpm and churns out top torque value of 334 Nm at 4400 rpm with the help of Continuously variable transmission (CVT). The compact SUV offers fastest acceleration in  its segment and enables it to go from 0-100 kmph in just 8.0 seconds and achieve the top speed mark of 210 kmph. Nissan Murano is a front wheel drive (FWD) vehicle which is also available with four wheel drive as an option.

Nissan Murano is a sporty vehicle with stylish exterior that is bound to attract the youth. The two-tone beige interior with colour coded wood makes its interior one of the best SUV interior in its segment. Other standard features that are available with Nissan Murano includes power windows, speed sensitive electronically powered steering, BOSE Audio system with 11 speakers, 20 inch alloy wheels, ABS (Antilock Braking System) with EBD, electronic stability control, airbags (which includes dual front, front side and side curtain), Bi-Xenon headlights, leather seats, dual-zone surround automatic climate control and many more things.

The five door mid-size SUV Nissan Murano is internationally available with eye-catching exterior and interior design job that give it a very special look. The exterior of the car is made distinctive with new styled front fascia and stunning rear design. The nose of the compact SUV possesses designer chrome slats along with Nissan logo that rest on the honeycomb grille. The Bi-Xenon headlights of the car create fantastic image of the overall frontal look; the headlights share the slot of front grille, very few cars have this type of headlight placing. The front fog lamps are positioned in 3D like cluster in round shape while the lower air intake sits between the fog lamps. The ORVMS are in body colour while the door handles are in chrome finish. The rear side gets funky LED tail lights and new design rear windshield along with rear defogger. The Nissan Murano comes with chrome tipped twin exhaust placed at the each ends of the lower side. Rear fog lamps, high stop lamp, reflectors, rear spoiler are other safety features.

The Nissan Murano comes dressed with elegant and first grade interior features. Leather seats and steering wheel plus ample illumination turn it into a luxury hotel's suite; the cabin seems more appealing with modern designed dashboard entities. The dashboard of the car comes integrated with funky instrument panel that is backlighted with various dazzling illumination. In centre dash, there are audio and AC controls set in distinguish style with chrome touch.

The Nissan Murano is equipped with four spoke powered steering wheel that has got mounted audio, bluetooth, and cruise controls with some illumination. The front and rear windows are powered while the both front seats are power adjustable with memory adjustment. Apart from that, there are other interior features that include interior mood lighting, 12 volt DC power outlets, auxiliary audio input jack, front seat back pockets, wood tone trim, etc.

Interior Comfort

The compact SUV Nissan Murano is believed to be introduced here with most comfortable seat rows and features. The driver seat of the car is 6 way manual adjustable with lumber support while the passenger seat is 4 way adjustable; all the seats are heated. The rear seat is 60:40 split fold-flat with automatic fold down and up feature, reclining rear seats with centre armrest. The front centre console comes with armrest.

The leather wrapped four spoke multi-functional steering wheel provides the driver several facilities including controlling audio system, activating cruise control and operating mobile phone with bluetooth options. You can also enjoy your selected music tracks with advanced audio system that is comprised of 11 speakers. Added to this, there is dual zone climate control system that offers the desired temperature inside the cabin.

Volkswagon Golf Expected Launch in June 2012

There are a good number of engines and trims of the popular Volkswagen Golf world over, but in India the most anticipated variant is Volkswagen Golf GTD. This model of the Golf is powered by a 2.0 litre, TDI powertrain that churns out a top power of 170 hp at 4,200 rpm and a peak torque of 350 Nm between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. The hatchback comes with standard  six speed manual transmission while you can opt for an automatic 6 speed gearbox as well. The stylish four wheeler covers 0-100 kmph in just 8.1 seconds, you can speed up to 220 kmph.

The exterior of the upcoming Volkswagen Golf is fitted with sound designing job that creates a magical effect on onlookers. The front nose has got adjustable halogen headlamps that has been incorporated with turn indicators and day time running lamps. The headlamp cluster are attached with radiator grille and bold Volkswagen logo at the centre. The slats get chrome inserts which give it a sophisticated appearance. The lower air intake sports honeycomb design in black treatment. The lower grille cluster is mingled with fog lamp cluster; it has unique designed vertically stacked clear and bright fog lamps. The Volkswagen Golf comes with body colour ORVMs integrated with turn indicators to provide clear vision to the trailing cars. Added to this, the door handles are also wrapped in body colour. The rear side of the Volkswagen Golf carries elegant and sporty image contributed by wider tail lamps, high stop brake light mounted on rear spoiler, soft and advanced hatch gate and chrome tipped twin exhaust system.

From the interior side the dashboard of Volkswagen Golf is more adventurous and is equipped with the latest hi-tech equipments; it includes bluetooth connectivity, digi­tal radio and compatibility with MP3 music players and wireless gadgets. The instrument cluster comes in twin dials and a multi-functional computer screen that displays important car running data such as fuel consumption, mileage, speed, estimated distance to refuelling, etc. Apart from that, the Volkswagen Golf comes with several comfort and convenience features that include driver seat adjustment, front seat centre armrest with storage, power steering with mounted audio and cruise control, AC, music system with four speakers, etc.

The much-awaited Volkswagen beauty - Volkswagen Golf - is reported to debut in India with the latest safety provisions. The car comes with whiplash-optimised front headrests, airbags, ABS with EBD, front fog lamps, day time running lights, Electronic stabilization programme (ESP), parking sensors, etc.

AUDI TT

Its good mix up of dynamism and design,unique sporty look makes this car different. With a double-clutch transmission, ample power, and grip for days, the 2008 Audi TT Coupe makes for a more enjoyable drive than the Roadster. Bluetooth, an iPod dock, satellite radio, and optional navigation round out the package. Unique, beautiful design, relatively comfortable for front passengers iPod integration is seamless but incomplete, and the Bluetooth setup has similar shortcomings. Interior storage is all but nonexistent. S tronic is slow, cramped cockpit that is hard to see out of, twitchy suspension The windows are short and the beltline/top of the doors is way too high and because the roof is so slow you can't raise your seat much; so you can't easily see out the sides or navigate in tight places with much confidence. I know this style is popular these days, but if you care about seeing where you are driving (obviously many people don't) then it's just plain annoying. I played with the magnetic suspension a bit. With it on, the ride was firmer but also a noticeably jittery; a lot of noise from the wheels and suspension. With it off the ride was a little softer and not so noisy, but a little less fun. It's much better than an A4 I tested a while ago - the suspension was so bad on that one that I even asked whether it was severely damaged in some way. On its own I think the TT's suspension is great; but compare it to a BMW suspension without any magnetic trickery and you'll see why BMW is the gold standard. I also found that when you aren't pushing the car, the S tronic transmission is slow to shift when you tell it to. If you were really pushing the car it would shift faster. This may make some sense, but it left me feeling disconnected from the car. And no matter how bad you think the back seat will be, it is worse. It's no good for anyone - not even small kids, or a baby seat. Even getting to it is a joke. I wanted a backseat just for my dog, but I'm not sure even he'd find it livable. Despite its great looks, in the end I just kept comparing it to what you can find in a BMW, and despite how ugly most BMWs are today, they are much better driver's cars. 

New Nissan 370Z India

Nissan 370Z will be available with two variants with both manual and automatic transmission option. Both variants of Nissan 370Z will be powered by the 3.7L, 3696cc, V6, CVVTCS (Continuous Variable Valve Timing Control System) with VVEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift) technology on intake valves that delivers excellent engine power and performance. This engine can produce 332Bhp of maximum power at 7000rpm with 365Nm of maximum torque at 5200rpm. This higher level of power and torque results in excellent acceleration and high engine performance so that Nissan 370Z can cross the 100kmph mark in just 6.8 seconds and can touch the top speed mark of 257kmph.

Nissan 370Z will be packed with number of features that make it very appealing and eye catching. Its sleek front grille, sporty headlamps and body colored ORVMs (Outside Rear View Mirrors) leave the viewer in awe. Nissan 370Z is packed with an array of advanced luxury features that include sports leather seats with non-slip cloth insert, leather covered steering wheel and gear shift knob, automatic climate control air-conditioning, heated seats, steering mounted audio controls, Bluetooth hands free system, etc. As per the safety concern, Nissan 370Z will be packed with all advanced safety features that any high end luxury vehicle offers. 

Audi Q3

The Audi Q3 which will be available in four engine variants, two TDI and two TFSI units, has the minimum drag coefficient of 0.32 making it more fuel efficient. Besides its sporty looks, the SUV is with the power inside becomes one of the really efficient off-roader. Its lightweight enables it to better maneuverability. The interiors contrary to the compact image of the SUV, has lots of space coupled with interior color choices as well. The SUV powered by 2000cc TFSI and the TDI engines with permanent four wheel drive makes the machine almost invincible. The 16-inch all alloy wheels fitted with 215/65 tires gives enough ground clearance to drive through any terrain. Though the customers may have an option of 17 or 19 inches as well, the SUV overcomes and remains steady on turns due to the advanced Electronic stabilization program (ESP). The xenon plus head lamps lights the roads ahead giving the best in the category road vision at night. The parking assistant is surely a help to park the vehicle safely. For hip hop lovers Audi is loaded with ultimate range of infotainment devices. To get you home safely from even strange places you have a GPS, online traffic information, side assist system and loads of other features that perhaps makes the Audi Q3 a car best in the category.

Audi specializes in putting an impressive clad to all its vehicles and continuing the same tradition, the Audi Q3 is also one of them. Besides being sporty in looks, the SUV has really efficiency packed in it. Its lightweight body enables maneuverability. At the time of designing Audi Q3 the company has thought of imparting the most progressive exteriors to the car. The single frame grill at the front with tapered upper corners gives it a class look. The engine hood has a dynamic curve covering underneath one of the best in class engines. Furthermore, the wedge-shaped headlights qualify and complete the front looks of Audi Q3. Higher versions of Audi have LED daytime running lights. Two large air inlets at the front give a feeling of the power of the engines. The sides of the Audi Q3 too bear the characteristic design features of Audi. A tornado line gives a sleek, slim and taut appearance to the Audi Q3.

The wheel arch of the car which has metal in two-third of its body has a muscular look. The roof of this compact SUV has slopes towards the ground, making it more aerodynamic. The dynamic line imparts additional flourishes near the side sills and the wheel arches have a muscular look, making the Audi Q3 the perfect off-roader. Characteristic features of Audi's Q-family siblings are more pronounced in Q3. The tailgate comprising of LED light strips has strong similarity with the tailgate of Audi Q5. The exhaust tailpipes of this wonder machine are found both on the left and the right below the rear bumper.

The Audi Q3 is available in twelve different shades besides five custom color options which are available on select add-on parts of this SUV. The standard version comes with black add-on parts such as underbody guard and wheel arches however, customers can order customization for these add-ons based on the color contrasting options available.

Exterior Measurements

With 4.39 m length (14.4 ft), 1.83 meters width (6.0 ft), and 1.60 meters (5.25 ft) height – the Audi Q3 becomes one of the most compact SUV's in its category. The aerodynamic design that eases optimum airflow both above and underneath the car adds to power and smoother ride.

Chevrolet Enjoy

Chevrolet Enjoy is a full-fledged seven seater Multi Purpose Vehicle that will be available in India soon. This new MPV which is popular in Chinese market as ‘Hong Guang’, will hit the markets in mid 2012. The Chevrolet Enjoy MPV which was on pedestal in the Auto Expo, 2012 along with hatch Chevrolet Sail, is designed for those who look for space, comfort and style in their vehicle which can add pleasure to life. The stylish MPV is actually co-developed with the Chinese partner SAIC (Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation). SAIC has 50% stake in GM India and the Chevrolet Enjoy will be coming from the stables of Wuling Automobiles which is a Joint venture between GM and SAIC in China.  

General Motors operates in India with the subsidiary-Chevrolet. GM stands on top position in sales of four wheeler across the globe and such a top player in car industry is bound to produce cars that are reliable. Chevrolet has a vast range of cars in India and all enjoy a decent market share which is increasing day by day. While it has Beat, Spark and Aveo U-VA in hatchback segment, Aveo, Optra Magnum and Cruze goes into sedan category. Apart from them, there are Chevrolet Captiva and Chevrolet Tavera Neo sitting in the utility segment. With the new addition of this Enjoy MPV, the company will have enough number of vehicles to rule their respective segments.

Moreover MPV segment is at present ruled by Toyota Innova in India and it takes most of the market share in its segment. Every car maker is vying to beat its sales and in this attempt, Chevrolet is also not lagging. With the Chevrolet Enjoy, the company will directly attack Innova. Albeit, Chevrolet has its Tavera in MPV segment, it will bring the new MPV which will be built more on the grounds of style and class and would be an urban car. While Tavera Neo will continue to serve semi-urban audience, new Enjoy will serve totally urban class.

Chevrolet Enjoy will cater to need of large Indian families having seven seats. The B segment MPV will suit all needs of a passenger vehicle. Comfort will be ensured by flexi-seating in the MPV. Lotus, which is a British automaker, worked in tandem with the General Motor Technical Center in India for more than one and a half year to tune the chassis. The frame of this MPV is rigid as well as light weight because high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel is used in the body and chassis. However, ground clearance seems to be less which can create a problem for the new entry. The designers have played with the exteriors by introducing a crease in the side to divide the mass of the body of MPV. The car has a body on frame design just like Mahindra Xylo and Toyota Innova.

Just like Innova and Ertiga, Chevrolet Enjoy MPV will boast of its dual-row air conditioning. Safety was given a good weightage in the development of the MPV. The MPV will have loads of safety features such as dual air bags for driver and front passenger, seat belts with load limiters, ABS and tubeless tyres. However, speculations say that these goodies will be optional.

This product has been tailored for local market conditions and need of local customers for economical, user-friendly personal transportation. The new Chevrolet Enjoy will be powered by a 1.4 litre petrol unit that will be able to churn out 94.6 bhp of power and 127 Nm. A powerful 1.3 litre Smart XSDE 4 cylinder diesel engine will follow this petrol one, however the company will not launch this diesel guised Enjoy before 2013. This multijet diesel engine will be codeveloped by GM and Fiat. The engines would be produced at GM’s pant in Talegaon near Pune. As of now predictions are only for the petrol engine. Now, everything will depend on right pricing of this MPV because if prices are bang-on, this new car will really be a segment buster. That said sourcing the car from China will give a huge cost advantage and even the engine will be relatively cheap as it will be locally produced.

Tata Safari Storme

Tata Storme is basically a nicely updated and enhanced version of Tata Safari. The next generation Safari is been testing since early 2010.However, it is not sure so far as to where exactly it will be positioned price wise, but the update will be given soon by the firm. Our price quote for new Safari Storme is Rs 10 lakh. Tata Safari Storme is a perfect answer to Mahindra’s SUV, Mahindra XUV 500.

The major highlight of the brand new Tata Storme will be its powerful and bold engine. The SUV will feature a masculine 2.2.Litre of DICOR diesel engine that would churn out peak power of 140 BHP along with 320 Nm of maximum torque. The engine is coupled with a revamped and refreshed 5 speed manual transmission. The icing on the cake is that Tata Storme will be offered in a four wheel drive version accompanied with a low gear ratio that would be made available in the top variant of Tata Safari Storme. Visually, this brand new SUV has been given a major makeover and the interiors of the car have also been updated substantially.

When heading inside the new Tata Safari Storme, the dashboard is intelligently designed with ample of faux wood that makes it look so subtle and sophisticated and the quality of the upholstery is high-class. Tata Motors is well aware of the fact that Indian consumers give as much weightage to the interior comfort in the car as to the engine specifications. The exteriors of Tata Storme have also been reformed to lure consumers and to show them that Tata Storme is actually the updated version of Tata Safari and doesn’t feature the old design.

The exterior of all new Tata Safari Storme comprise of refurbished headlamps along with new design at the front end that makes the SUV look more up to date and fashionable. Fresh wide grill, new wraparound headlamps with projectors, chrome stripe on radiator grille, newly designed front bumper with fog lamps are the elements of new face.  On the other hand, the rear end got a little cosmetic makeover just to make it differ from Tata Safari. Still it hasn’t been confirmed by what name Tata Merlin will be released, but so far the speculation suggests that the new Tata Safari could be launched with name of Tata Safari Storme.

This time around, Tata Motors has its hopes high regarding the sales figures of Tata Safari Storme. Earlier too, Tata Safari was one of the best selling cars by the company and with Tata Storme, the company aims a little higher. The consumers in the country are eagerly waiting for the new Tata Safari, or should we call it Tata Storme. This SUV will lock horns with the recently launched Mahindra XUV 500, which has been receiving raving reviews since the time of its launch. Therefore, it’s currently impossible to predict whether or not the Tata Storme will be able to take over the Indian car market. Price wise, the company hasn’t revealed the exact price range of Tata Storme, but rumor has it that the new Tata Safari Storme will be competitively priced thereby giving the Indian consumers an ease to purchase. 

New Mitsubishi Pajero Sport Launching on 13 March 2012

Mitsubishi will launch the new Pajero Sport on 13 March 2012. It will replace the ageing Pajero SFX which the Japanese car maker has stopped selling officially.

Photo: The all new Pajero Sport looks modern and much more refined than the outgoing SFX

The Pajero Sport is expected to be launched on March 13^th, 2012 according to Mitsubishi dealers and will likely be priced at about Rs. 26 lakh. The Pajero Sport will be offered only in one 4×4 variant unlike the segment leader Toyota Fortuner which comes in both 4×2 and 4×4 variants.

Looks, space and comfort

The Pajero Sport is a lot more contemporary than the Pajero SFX. The Pajero Sport has a radically designed front grille with unique vertical slits that makes the SUV look brawny and aggressive. The clear lens headlamps with projector beams are attractive. The front and rear skid plates make the Pajero Sport off-road ready.

The Pajero Sport stands on 17-inch wheels, features a high ground clearance of 215 mm and large wheel arches which further enhances its sporty side profile. Like most contemporary designs, the Pajero Sport has a tail lamp cluster that extends onto the boot door giving it a premium feel. The rear bumper has integrated rear fog lamps, reflectors and reverse parking sensors.

The Pajero Sport is as big as the Fortuner particularly in length, height and wheelbase. The Pajero Sport will have seven seats laid out in the 2+3+2 arrangement. We expect the Pajero to be as spacious as the Toyota Fortuner if not more.

The interiors of the Pajero Sport will be generations ahead of the outgoing SFX in terms of quality and fit and finish. The dashboard layout will be similar to that of the Mitsubishi Outlander. The interiors will have a premium feel and will justify the Rs. 20 lakh plus price tag of the Pajero Sport. Overall, with high quality plastics and a spacious cabin, the comfort level of the Pajero Sport will be significantly higher than that of the Pajero SFX and will be at par with the Fortuner.

Expected Performance

Mitsubishi will likely equip the Pajero Sport with a 2.5-litre common rail diesel motor that puts out 178 bhp of power and 400 Nm of torque. As per specifications, the Pajero Sport engine puts out more power and torque than the Pajero SFX which is powered by 2.8-litre turbo-charged diesel engine that puts out 106.5 bhp of power and 275 Nm of torque.

The Super Select 4WD (four-wheel-drive) system featured in the Pajero SFX will be used in the Pajero Sport as well. This system allows selecting either rear-wheel drive or 4WD at speeds up to 100 kmph. Being built on a ladder chassis frame that is known for ruggedness coupled with Mitsubishi’s expertise in off-road SUVs, the upcoming Pajero Sport with its new powerful engine will likely perform better than the Fortuner when they go off-road.

Expected Features

The Pajero Sport will retain the features available in the Pajero SFX. This includes dual front airbags, ABS, three row AC vents, front fog lights, rear wiper/washer, alloy wheels, height-adjustable driver seat, electric mirrors, remote locking, central locking, AC and audio system.

The Pajero Sport may also come with touch screen navigation system and automatic climate control. There are speculations that the Pajero Sport will feature cruise control and steering mounted audio controls.

Summary

Mitsubishi SUVs are known for their SUVs with great off-road abilities and rock solid reliability. The current Pajero is an old working horse but fails when it comes to design due to its boxy exterior and dull interiors. The Pajero Sport not only looks promising, but could also deliver in terms of performance and comfort.

However, Mitsubishi seems to have lost an opportunity because it is not assembling the Pajero Sport locally. This will have an impact in pricing the Pajero Sport which is speculated to be exceeding Rs. 25 lakh. At present, the segment leader, Toyota Fortuner is assembled locally and hence priced competitively in the range of Rs. 19.99 lakh – 20.99 lakh.  With a weak brand image and scarce service networks, the Pajero Sport has a tough road ahead to clock consistent sales numbers.

Honda CR-V prototype

Honda has revealed the European prototype pictures of the upcoming CR-V model. The CR-V model will be unveiled at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show in March 2012. Expect the new CR-V to hit the Indian market by mid 2012.

Looks

The fourth generation Honda CR-V gets a bold radiator grille featuring three horizontal chrome slats with a sculpted large Honda logo at the centre. The upswept head lamps with day-time running (DRL) LEDs give a sporty look to the new CR-V. The rear styling and tail lamps of the new CR-V resemble that of the Volvo XC60. Overall, the new CR-V is a more contemporary design when compared to the outgoing model.

Inside the cabin, Honda has improved the passenger space in the new CR-V. Earlier, there were rumors that the new CR-V will feature three rows of seats. But this is untrue for the new CR-V has only two rows of seats with a seating capacity of five passengers. The 60:40 split in the rear seat offers flexibility to carry more luggages. The loading lip has also been lowered so that luggage can easily be loaded into the boot.

Performance

The India-bound CR-V will likely get the same 2.4-litre i-VTEC motor that powers the outgoing model. However, expect power and torque to increase by a slight margin. At present, the engine puts out 180 bhp of power. Honda has also improved the fuel efficiency by 8 – 10 %. The CR-V will likely come with an Eco driving mode as found in Honda’s other models such as the Brio. Interestingly, Honda may launch a diesel version of the CR-V in India.  Honda has a 2.2 litre i-DTEC diesel motor that powers the Europe-specific Honda Accord. If this engine comes in the India-bound CR-V, it would be an enticing SUV for buyers.

Expected Features

The upcoming CR-V may have features such as intelligent Multi Information Display (i-MID) that displays fuel consumption and can also read text messages from your mobile phone, multi-angle rear view camera with three different camera view angles, steering-mounted controls, Bluetooth, audio system with USB and auxiliary input and 60:40 split seats at the rear. With regard to safety, expect the new CR-V to come with Vehicle Stability Assist with Motion-Adaptive EPS (Electric Power Steering), ABS, six airbags (front, front side, curtain), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and automatic tensioning front seat belts.

Expected Price

Honda sells the CR-V in India via CBU (Completely Built Unit) route. Hence it attracts a full 110% excise duty. The next-generation CR-V will likely follow the same CBU route. Expect the new CR-V to be priced slightly higher than the current model which is priced in the range of Rs. 22.6 lakh – 24.8 lakh.

Summary

Many years ago, the Honda CR-V had no competition in Indian market and had fairly high sales. However, with the launch of many diesel SUVs, the utility of CR-V did not appeal to buyers. The segment leader, Toyota Fortuner sells at around 850 units a month while Honda CR-V sells at 30 units a month. Honda should introduce the CR-V with diesel engine option if it is keen on increasing its sales in India. Expect the new CR-V petrol version to hit showrooms in mid 2012 while the diesel version may be launched in early 2013

New Cruze

The much awaited Chevrolet Cruze will take cues from the new Cruze Station Wagon to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show. The Cruze facelift is slated to launch in India this year.

Looks

The new Cruze will have a redesigned grille and refreshed fog lamps. The headlamps of the outgoing model make the Cruze looks aggressive and hence, the designers have not altered the overall shape of the headlamp on the facelift version. New alloy wheel pattern can also be seen in the upcoming Cruze facelift. Interiors-wise, expect improved headroom for rear passengers.

Performance

The upcoming Cruze will be powered by GM’s Z series, 2.0 litre, DOHC, common-rail diesel motor that produces 163 bhp (presently it is 148 bhp) of power. The new Cruze will have an edge of a wholesome 23 bhp over the Jetta that belts out 140 bhp of power and is one of its key competitors.

Expected price and features

The Cruze facelift may have a slightly increased price. At present, the Cruze is offered in the range of Rs. 12 lakh – 14.4 lakh. The Cruze facelift version may likely retain all the features of the outgoing model which includes automatic climate control, push button start, cruise control, ABS and Airbags among others.

Summary

The Cruze is one of the best-selling Chevrolet models in India. The car is known for its sporty styling, performance and creature comforts. The facelift version with cosmetic updates and a powerful engine may attract more buyers!