Automobile News

Saturday, September 7, 2013

New Hatchback Cars in India

The Polo is one premium hatchback that rates high on the wish-list for many. It is undoubtedly one of the best looking hatchbacks in country with its sporty poise, rakish design and premium build quality.

The Beat has been doing fairly well for India and despite its age, it is still the most radical and futuristic looking car in its segment. However, 2013 will witness the launch of the facelift model of the Beat which was unveiled in 2012 at the New York.

Fiat India has an aggressive plan in place after splitting up with their joint venture partners, Tata Motors. The first portfolio refresh after their split will come through the Grande Punto facelift. The revised model is expected to borrow design.

Tata is working hard to make the Nano the best entry level small car that one can buy in India. The current 624cc engined Nano is expected to get better refinement in the 2013 model and there is also an 800cc petrol and a similar capacity diesel being launched soon.

Maruti Suzuki is the undisputed king of small cars in the Indian market. However, the A-star hasn’t really managed to be a big mover as the carmaker would have expected.

In 2012, Nissan top boss Carlos Ghosn announced plans to revive the defunct Datsun brand as Nissan low-cost sibling in developing markets like India, South-East Asia, Russia, Brazil and China. On July 15, 2013.

The Volkswagen Up! has been caught testing in India quite a few times in the past few months. It is a premium, compact hatchback that is slotted under the Polo in the European market. ..

By the end of 2012, Ratan Tata confirmed that the Nano will be given a refresh in 2013. The Nano is definitely undergoing a facelift as the innumerable spy shots suggest.

Tata is already working on a refreshed version of the Nano, but apart from the facelift, there is also an 800cc variant that is be developed. In an OnCars exclusive, we brought a video footage of the Nano 800 being tested in Maharashtra.

The Estilo and the A-star may not be doing too well for Maruti Suzuki’s B-segment operations. However, the bare bones Wagon R has been selling decent numbers even with its petrol-only crusade.

Volkswagen Vento facelift..................Upcoming

Expected Price:7-11 Lakh
Expected by:Aug-Sep 2013

The Volkswagen Vento may not be an outright success like the Honda City or the Hyundai Verna, but the Polo based sedan does manage to sell in decent numbers every month. Since the Vento was introduced back in 2010, it is now time for its mid-life facelift.

In fact, the Vento was given a new set of headlights with black surrounds, in late 2012. However, we expect 2013 to see a slightly new fascia as well, with double-barrel headlights, revised bumpers, new taillights and even new engines under the hood. The Vento refresh could also borrow some of the new features that were introduced on the festive-season edition of the Highline variant that was rolled out in 2012. Expect some nips and tucks to the interiors too.

The pricing of the refreshed Vento could be slightly higher than the current model owing to the upgraded equipment. We expect the refreshed Vento to roll out by the third quarter of 2013, closer to the festive season.

Fiat Punto Abarth .............Upcoming

Expected Price:8-11 LakhExpected by:Aug-Oct 2013

Fiat probably is the only mass-market carmaker in India that is committed towards the petrolheads and performance enthusiasts - the Palio S10, the Punto 90HP and then the Punto Sport - all being examples of its affinity towards hot hatches. But by the end of 2013, the carmaker will have taken the game forward by a big margin.

Fiat India has confirmed that between October and December 2013, it will launch the Punto Abarth in the market! ‘Abarth’ as you may know, is the performance brand for Fiat and as the name suggests, the upcoming car will be a ‘go faster’ version of the Punto hatchback. Since Fiat India says that the car will be locally manufactured, we are not quite sure if we will see the same Punto Abarth that is sold in the global market. We belive that it could be your regular Punto with an Abarth body-kit, a 1.4-litre T-jet engine and a 1.3-litre, 90 PS diesel engine serving as the powertrain options and sporty upholstery inside the car. Expect the pricing to be in the range of Rs 8 to 11 lakh.

New Hyundai Grand i10 Overview

Overview

Hyundai has been the most successful contender in small car segment for more than a decade now. It has proven its design capabilities through remarkable powertrains like Kappa series and has kept itself customer centric by launching products which have stood up to the requirements of masses. After Santro, i10 and i20, Hyundai has now sculpted a small car which sets to disturb peace of mind of its rivals. Called as Grand i10, this new hatchback for the first time from Hyundai will debut a small diesel engine in compact car segment, a move that could bring greater gains for the company and let other market leaders thinking. Apart from this new powertrain, Hyundai has also worked on dimensions and overall sculpture to make Grand i10 more contemporary, having an exhilarating theme. Standing in between Next Gen i10 and i20 models, the hatchback will compete with Swift, Beat, Figo and Etios Liva. Hyundai has also made sure to build the cabin with necessary comfort features, escalating convenience in some areas and aesthetics in others.

Hyundai Grand i10 is offered in eight different colour shades which comprises of both lively and neutral colour tones for that executive feel. Wine Red, Golden Orange, Twilight Blue, Stardust and Phantom Black are few options in the list.

Powertrain & Performance

Hyundai Grand i10 comes out with both petrol and diesel mills with the petrol version being Kappa Series engine and the diesel one being the 2^nd Generation U2 CRDi. The 1.2L petrol fueled Dual VTVT motor is similar to the engine used in i20. This 1197 cc engine is capable of delivering 82 bhp @ 6000 rpm with maximum torque of 113.75 Nm @ 4000 rpm. The efficiency and power delivery at every instant is improved with the help of Variable Timing Valve Train. The 3-cylinder diesel motor comes from 2^nd generation Hyundai U engine series and embodies Variable Geometry Turbocharger for better performance. It is 1120 cc engine which produces 70 bhp @ 4000 rpm and has a rated peak torque of 159.8 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm. The diesel engine is quite torquier which necessitates lesser gear shifts while moving around in city traffic. The fact that the engine starts off with the push of a button, makes these mills more lovable.

Both the engines are mated to 5-speed manual transmission system which has smooth shift gear knob, making driving a pleasure in all conditions. Gas type shock absorbers of suspension system enhance drive quality by deriving greater stability from wheels while moving on different types of roads.

Build & Styling

The South Korean car maker has smartly designed the exterior of Grand i10, by imparting traces of Fluidic Design Philosophy and embodying sportiness and contemporary attitude into it. The result is a car which is modern, stylish, sporty and bigger than the previous generation i10. Fluidic Design traits are visible in headlamps, frame of fog lamps and rear bumpers while its sporty characteristic can be seen through roof rails, alloy wheels and rear roof spoiler. Matte-black side body cladding not only adds more weight to the personality but also makes the Grand i10 distinctive from all other hatchbacks in market. The trunk lid design too is quite distinguishable in its design and Hyundai has stated that the width of rear windscreen has been increased as per the necessities of Indian consumers. The wraparound tail lamp design and turn indicators mounted on ORVM add more glare to Grand i10.

While building the interior of Hyundai Grand i10, the company had decided to make the cabin roomier and leave large DLO to make it feel airy. Growing up in size, having a wheelbase which is 45 mm greater than Next Gen i10, the cabin of Grand i10 is spacious and comfortable. The Black and Beige upholstery theme with attractive graphics on fabric material makes the space more aesthetically pleasing. Manual AC is fit over the dual-tone dashboard which has rear passenger air-vents in between front seats for better cooling. The 2-DIN audio system with Bluetooth connectivity has steering mounted control buttons for easier operation. Design of dashboard is quite simple, yet looks irresistible because of Beige and Black colour scheme.

Apart from basic security features like Immobiliser and Central Locking System Hyundai has incorporated some advanced features like Rear Parking Sensors and airbags for both driver and front passenger for added safety. Anti-lock Braking System comes as an optional equipment in Grand i10.

Sources: http://www.motortrend.in/newcars/hyundai/grand-i10/carreviews.htm

New Honda Amaze Overview

Overview

It is a car that was highly speculated for its characteristics and positioning, even months before its launch. Honda Amaze, the car that has been the talk of the town for its mileage figures, received warm welcome when it finally made its way on Indian roads. Due respect to technological achievement of Honda, Amaze comes out with stunning mileage figures of 25.8 kmpl for diesel engine. This factor is something that Indians love the most in a car. Having said that, it should also be noted that the automaker has not failed to maintain reputation when it comes to comfort and finishing of Honda Amaze. The sub-4 metre sedan is truly an exciting product for developing markets like that of India.

Honda Amaze comes out in six levels of trim and in six colour tones. The colour options for this car are Majestic Blue Metallic, Urban Titanium Metallic, Taffeta White, Carnelian Red Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl and Alabaster Silver Metallic.

Powertrain & Performance

Honda has scored high in powertrain and performance by developing a highly fuel efficient engine which also possesses good accelerating characteristics. Honda claims that they have done this by reducing friction and developing better cooling systems of engine. While all these factors hold good for the 1.5L i-DTEC diesel engine, the company has also included a 1.2L petrol engine in the options list for Amaze. The 1.5L diesel engine delivers maximum power of 98 bhp @ 3600 rpm and torque of 200 Nm @ 1750 rpm. The diesel car takes very less time to accelerate and reach mid and high range speeds. The 1.2L i-VTEC petrol engine has maximum power rating of 86 bhp @ 6000 rpm while maximum torque rating for the same engine stands up to 109 Nm @ 4500 rpm.

Honda Amaze is available in both manual and automatic transmission system options. Automatic system is available only for the petrol variant. The sedan has short wheelbase length and good handling characteristics which couple and keep the turning radius figures down to 4.5 m and 4.7 m. McPherson Struts and Torsion Beam come as suspensions for this compact sedan.

Build & Styling

Honda Amaze borrows few design aspects from the hatchback, Brio and uses it at the front. The large eye-like headlamps of the sedan is similar to those of the Brio. The dual stripe chrome coated front grille and neatly chiseled bumper are two distinguishable factors from the hatchback. All these aspects combine to make Honda Amaze look young, energetic and charming. The side body carries two character lines, one starts from front bumper and ends at second door and the other alphas from second door and runs around the trunk lid. These bold lines do not meet each other and give a truly unique look to the car (which may not be liked by some people). The rear of Amaze looks more attractive when compared to its front. The design of large tail lamps and chrome strip sitting on the finely shaped boot lid make the small sedan look premium from rear.

Space within the cabin is something that will impress a person the most when he steps into the Honda Amaze. The comfort levels offered by seats are comparable to Honda City. The design of dashboard is similar to that in the Brio which is plain and not very impressive. There is abundant boot space, legroom and headroom at rear. Honda has used some fine quality upholstery to fabricate the interior of this small sedan. Air conditioning and power windows are some impressive comfort features in this car. The company has come out with an interesting heat absorbing glass for windscreen. This glass makes sure that the interior is cooler when the car is driven out on a sunny day.

The Japanese auto giant has made sure to include some important safety features in this sedan. Anti-lock Braking System with EBD, airbags and engine immobiliser take care of the car and passengers. The skeleton of Honda Amaze is structured under Advanced Compatibility Engineering or ACE which allows the force of a crash to deviate away from passengers so that they do not get injured.

Sources: http://www.motortrend.in/newcars/honda/amaze/carreviews.htm

Ford EcoSport Review

Overview

Ford EcoSport is perhaps the most elegant car that has been launched in the year 2013 and realising its potential, the company has left no stones unturned in marketing this classy compact SUV. The company seems to have struck the right chord in terms of design and proportions with this automobile since it perfectly fits between the MUV/SUV segment and hatchback segment of the market. Through all these qualities, Ford EcoSport tells out boldly that it is an automobile built for city drives as well as off-road drives. Fit and finish of the automobile is what distinguishes it from other cars in the market.

Ford EcoSport has three different types of engines and comes out in four levels of trim. A wide range of colour options add more flavour to the personality of the car. Kinetic Blue, Sea Grey, Panther Black and Diamond White are just few of the colours.

Powertrain & Performance

While building the Ford EcoSport, the automaker has concentrated on fuel efficiency while not neglecting power which is very much necessary for a car with SUV characteristics. The EcoBoost engine from Ford which is an award winning motor is a 999 cc petrol unit which is capable of producing 123.3 bhp @ 6000 rpm and has a peak torque rating of 170 Nm @ 1400-4500 rpm. It uses timing belt and turbocharger to improve efficiency and power output. Other engine options include the Turbocharged Common Rail Injection 1498 cc diesel motor which generates 89.8 bhp @ 3750 rpm. The maximum torque from this engine is 204 Nm @ 2000-2750 rpm. A 1499 cc TiVCT petrol engine also comes in the options list giving out 110 bhp @ 6300 rpm and has its maximum torque rated as 140 Nm @ 4400 rpm.

Ford has included two transmission systems for EcoSport. There is a 5-speed manual transmissions system which is designed for smoother gear shifts. The 6-speed PowerShift automatic transmission system with dual-clutch gear box gives better mileage while not compromising on power.

Build & Styling

Ford EcoSport introduces itself with a tall stance and bulky but simply stylish exterior build. The lean front grille with Ford logo is followed by the thin but aggressive looking headlamps. The bumper has horizontally split ports with chrome lining. Bold character lines extend on the sides of the body meeting the rear tail lamps. The DLO area is beautifully designed to follow the character lines on the side and the black fiber design around the rear windshield wraps around the car elegantly making sure that EcoSport is not mistaken to any other city car. The design of alloy wheels is something that catches the sight at first glance. Apart from the 200 mm ground clearance and high approach and departure angles, roof rails and a spare wheel mounted to the rear of the car gives it the SUV personality.

The interior of Ford EcoSport concentrates primarily on space and utilities. There is enough legroom, headroom and shoulder room for passengers inside the car. Through SYNC application one can operate the Bluetooth device through simple voice commands. The jaw dropping design of dashboard and the ergonomics of control buttons can please any passenger to the highest extremes. High-end equipment like automatic AC, cooled glove box, push button start function and power operated ORVM elevate the value of this splendid compact SUV. EPAS gives a wonderful experience of steering the car since it works according to the speed and driving conditions to give comfortable drive.

Safety is one of the strengths of this mini SUV when compared to other vehicles in the market. Ford has equipped the EcoSport with some top-end technologies like Electronic Stability Program, Traction Control, ABS and airbags to keep every drive safe while the boss of the vehicle is busy exploring the world.

Sources: http://www.motortrend.in/newcars/ford/ecosport/carreviews.htm

Maruti Suzuki Stingray Review

Overview

Stingray is not a new model for Suzuki’s global platform. The name is existed since 2007 and the Japanese auto maker has upgraded this model constantly to carve out a unique identity for the car from the base WagonR model. On the other hand, WagonR has been a forerunner for Maruti Suzuki in India since its launch in 1999. The importance for this hatchback has been so high that the auto major gave it an aesthetic upgrade even during recent times. Owing to the increase in competition and change in consumer taste, the company had to do something more to this ace hatchback to hold its position in the market. The change has taken the name Stingray and this is a major addition for Maruti Suzuki portfolio owing to the car’s styling. The name itself is fresh and electrifying to Indian consumers. But will the car have the same charge as its name? We checked out this sporty hatchback to tell you more.

The hatchback is launched in three variants with petrol engine option. With some very attractive colour tones like Passion Red, Midnight Blue and some elegant colour shades like Silky Silver, Glistening Grey and Superior White, Maruti Suzuki Stingray is simply a delight to look at.

Maruti Suzuki Stingray Performance Review

Powertrain & Performance

Maruti Suzuki Stingray uses the same engine which is fit in WagonR. The K-Series motor is known for its fuel economy and environment friendliness. The power mill is capable of delivering 67.1 bhp @ 6200 rpm quite punchy for a small lightweight car. Torque characteristics too are pretty amazing with the Stingray feeling charged right from the time engine is ignited. But it is to be noted that this zippy nature is very much a controlled one and hence turns out to be suitable for city drives. Maximum torque for the 998 cc petrol mill is 90 Nm @ 3500 rpm. Company claimed mileage for the Stingray is 20.51 kmpl which definitely will have a major role to play in this truly appealing car’s success.

The gear-shift mechanism and suspensions are refined to work smoothly in the hatchback. With cable type shift mechanism the 5-speed manual gearbox works in accordance with the power mill, pleasing driver at every moment of gear change.

Build & Styling

The major change that differentiates Stingray from WagonR is its exterior build, which looks futuristic and pleases any car lover at the first sight. One truly remarkable aspect of this design lies right on the face of the Stingray. The reflector front grille, unlike chrome grille used in other modern cars, gives a completely distinctive appeal to Stingray and the headlamps with projector lights are slim, rectangular and dynamically swept back elevating the beauty of the fascia. The front bumper and fog lamps too are aggressively styled. Rest of the car remains similar to the existing WagonR except for the rear where there is a chrome accentuation holding the name Stingray. The tail lamps too get an unusual design where chrome decorates the sides of the lamps. Overall the Stingray looks much refreshing, elegant and is completely distinguishable because of few of its design traits.

On the inside the dashboard is chunky and houses glove box and all the controls well within the reach of users. Chrome trims and piano black finish over this dashboard adds more flavour to the interior. Piano black finish is further extended over doors to give a rich feeling at every touch. Maruti Suzuki has also worked on bringing out a unique theme for the Stingray through the design of interior fabric upholstery. The company has not forgotten to include other contemporary comfort features like power windows, AC and electrically operated ORVM. Audio system is pretty much up-standard, having speakers on all doors to provide greater effect. Having all the top-notch features, Stingray does not disappoint customers when they look for storage space within the cabin. Apart from glove box there is a separate storage space in the dashboard which smartly opens with simple push.

Safety having primary importance in today’s market does get some weightage in Stingray. It is disappointing see that only the driver gets airbags and that too in high-end variant only. Other features which avoid accidents are ABS and rear washer and wiper, headlamp leveling device and front fog lamps. To keep the car secure Maruti Suzuki has adopted i-CATS and security system in the small car.