New Hatchbacks for 2016

In 2016, the hatchback segment is expected to see a number of launches, from mainstream models like the Tata Zica and Suzuki Ignis to more premium offerings such as the VW Polo GTI and the new Mini Clubman and Convertible.
Featured here are the hatchbacks – new and facelifted – expected to head to our shores soon.

MARUTI  SUZUKI IGNIS

Here’s a simple formula: hatchback size, a beefy, jacked-up stance, and easy-on-the-wallet price tag. Sounds pretty interesting, right? The Renault Kwid did it first and the Datsun RediGo will soon. So, of course, the king of the small cars, Maruti, has something planned too. The Suzuki Ignis makes for an interesting compact crossover, heavily borrowing styling cues from its concept, the IK-4. Based on a new platform, the Ignis, upon its launch in India, will likely be powered by Maruti’s familiar 1.2-litre petrol and 1.3-litre diesel powerplants.

Coming: End 2016
Est Price: ₹ 4-5 lakh
Engine(s): 1.2 P, 1.3 D
Rivals: Hyundai Eon, Datsun Go

DATSUN REDIGO

After a lukewarm response to the Go, Datsun’s next attempt holds a lot more promise. It’s an Alto 800 rival based on the RediGo concept, and will use the same underpinnings as its capable cousin, the Renault Kwid, as well as its 799cc engine. It will also sport crossover-like styling like the Kwid, but is expected to look sufficiently distinctive, with the Datsun family face, and borrowing significantly from its concept car’s design. Going by Datsun’s lower position in the Alliance hierarchy, expect an even more aggressive price than the Kwid’s.

Coming: Mar 2016
Est Price: ₹ 2.5-3 lakh
Engine(s): 0.8 P
Rivals: Maruti Alto 800, Hyundai Eon, Renault Kwid

MARUTI ALTO 800 FACELIFT

With a strong rival in the recently launched Renault Kwid, Maruti wants to cement the Alto’s top spot with a facelift. The updated Alto 800 will not only offer improved fuel efficiency, but could also add an AMT automatic to the package. Other changes are likely to be minor, with redesigned bumpers and lamps, and a bit more kit too. The big news could be the addition of the Celerio’s diesel engine, which will be a huge trump card.

Coming: End 2015
Est Price: ₹ 2.5-3.8 lakh
Engine(s): 0.8 P, 0.8 D
Rivals: Hyundai Eon, Renault Kwid, Tata Nano

TATA ZICA

Codenamed Kite, this pair of all-new models, designed from the ground up, will replace the ageing Indica and Indigo eCS. Designed by Tata’s European Technical Centre (TMETC), the new Kite hatchback and compact sedan are set to get all-new styling that is a big departure from existing Tata cars. They will also get new engines – a 1.05-litre diesel, a three-cylinder version of the company’s 1.4-litre DiCOR motor, and an all-new 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol unit. The Kite hatch will rival the likes of the Maruti Celerio and the Wagon R, while the Kite sedan will be positioned below the Zest in the sub-four-metre sedan segment.

Coming: Jan 2016
Est price: ₹ 3.5-5.5 lakh
Engine: 1.2 P, 1.0 D
Rivals: Maruti Celerio

MINI NEW CLUBMAN & CONVERTIBLE

These days, Minis are getting less and less ‘mini’, and the new Clubman is the biggest Mini yet. It’s the second generation of Mini’s estate car, and this time, it has six doors - the boot is accessed via two conventional hinged doors. Engine options overseas include 135bhp 1.5-litre and 190bhp 2.0-litre petrol motors (the latter for the Clubman S), along with a 1.5-litre four-cylinder diesel motor. As ever with a Mini, the Clubman is high on style and retro charm, but it’s also the most practical Mini ever. Plus, the next-gen Mini convertible could join the India range later in 2016.

Coming: Feb 2016
Est price: ₹ 35-38 lakh
Engine(s): 1.5 P, 2.0 P, 1.5 D
Rivals: Mercedes-Benz GLA

VOLKSWAGEN POLO GTI

India is finally warming to hot hatches, and the biggest punch will come from Volkswagen next year. With 189bhp from its 1.8-litre TSI engine, the Polo GTI is capable of doing 0-100kph in under seven seconds, thanks in part to a quick seven-speed DSG gearbox. It won’t come cheap though, with prices expected around ₹ 17 lakh. Not a car you’d buy with your sensible hat on then, but for true-blue enthusiasts, it’ll be worth it.

Coming: Mid 2016
Est price: ₹ 17 lakh
Engine(s): 1.8 P
Rivals: Abarth Punto

MARUTI WAGON R MPV

Low-cost, sub-four-metre, seven-seaters could be the next big ‘small’ thing in India. We’ve seen the Datsun Go+ and the Mahindra Quanto, and next up, Maruti will likely bring in its seven-seat WagonR. It’s unchanged until you reach the C-pillar, after which it stretches past the rear wheel arch to fit another row of seats. The best part – it will likely still be less than four metres long. Expect the 1.0-litre K10 engine to continue, but don’t be surprised if Maruti plonks the 0.8-litre diesel in there too.

Coming: Mid 2016
Est price: ₹ 4.5-6 lakh
Engine(s): 1.0 P, 0.8 D
Rivals: Datsun Go+

New Sedans for 2016

Its been a long time since I last published an article...I'm back with a list of new sedans that are to launched in India in the upcoming year.
In 2016, the sedan segment is expected to see a number of launches, from mainstream models like the Volkswagen Polo compact sedan and new Toyota Etios to more premium offerings such as the next-gen Mercedes E-class, new Skoda Superb and new BMW 7-series. Featured here are the sedans expected to head to our shores soon.

Volkswagen Polo Sedan

Don’t be confused, this is not the Vento. It is in fact a compact sedan derived by adding a boot to the shorter-wheelbase Polo hatch. Due in April next year, this new sedan could revive the ‘Bora’ name in VW’s line-up. It will borrow its mechanical bits from its hatchback sibling, namely the 1.2-litre MPI and TSI petrol engines, the latter with the seven-speed DSG  transmission, and the 1.5-diesel too. However, it won’t be competing aggressively on price, and you can expect fully loaded versions to be a little more expensive than rivals.

Expected Launch: Apr 2016
Est price: ₹ 6-10 lakh
Engine(s): 1.2 P, 1.5 D
Rivals: Hyundai Xcent, Honda Amaze, Ford Figo Aspire.

New Toyota Etios

The Toyota Etios hatch and sedan will flaunt an all-new look next year. The cars have been around for five years now and haven’t taken the market by storm, their dull looks being a big deterrent. The new Etioses will get a completely new ‘top hat’ and will bear little resemblance to the robust but boxy shape of the current model. However, it will remain unchanged mechanically.

Expected Launch: End 2016
Est price: ₹ 6-9 lakh
Engine(s): 1.2 P, 1.5 P, 1.4 D
Rivals: Hyundai Xcent, Honda Amaze

New Hyundai Elantra

Hyundai is all set to up the ante in the executive sedan space with its new Elantra. The sixth-gen Elantra is a good 20mm longer, and 25mm wider, so expect more cabin space. The interiors see improved soft-touch materials all around, besides the new driver-centric cockpit and a more ergonomic dashboard. Like all new Hyundais, the Elantra comes with a host of engine options: a 147bhp, 2.0-litre petrol, and 1.6-litre petrol and diesel engines, producing 130 and 134bhp respectively. Transmission options too include six-speed manuals and automatics, as well as the option of an all-new seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.



Expected Launch: Early 2016
Est price: ₹ 14-18 lakh
Engine(s): 1.6 P, 2.0 P, 1.6 D
Rivals: Skoda Octavia, Toyota Corolla, VW Jetta

New Honda Accord

After a brief absence, Honda will bring the Accord back to India as the ninth-generation model. Its strengths of solid mechanicals, strong performance and reliability remain, only now there’s more tech and space on the inside too. It’s still petrol only though, with a more powerful 2.4-litre motor, but a hybrid version could be introduced later on.

Coming: Mar 2016
Est price: ₹ 28-30 lakh
Engine(s): 2.4 P
Rivals: Toyota Camry, Skoda Superb

New Skoda Superb

Skoda’s flagship luxury saloon, the Superb, will soon be back in an all-new avatar. The third-gen Superb builds on the strengths of its predecessor, which stood out for its segment-defying rear legroom. The Superb is now based on the more advanced MQB platform and will come to India with an updated set of familiar four-cylinder engines – the 1.8 TSI and 2.0 TDI. The top-of-the-line Laurin & Klement trim is likely to come here, with bi-xenon headlights, an electronic tailgate, leather-heated seats, keyless entry and an even larger 8.0-inch touchscreen system.

Coming: Feb 2016
Est price:₹ 27-30 lakh
Engine(s): 1.8 P, 2.0 D
Rivals: VW Passat, Honda Accord

New Volkswagen Passat

The last Passat, though incredibly capable, proved too expensive for the badge it wore, and was discontinued. Oddly enough, the new car will be even more expensive when it launches next year, but it will also pack in loads more luxury. The eighth-gen Passat is bigger, more luxurious, more stylish and more capable. Expected in India with a 187bhp, 2.0-litre diesel unit, married to a six-speed DSG gearbox, VW shall once again pit the Passat against fancier-badged luxury rivals. Truth be told, it could give any of them a run for their money.

Coming: Feb 2016
Est price: ₹ 30-35 lakh
Engine(s): 2.0 D
Rivals: Skoda Superb, Audi A4, BMW 3-series

New Audi A4

It may not immediately look it, but this is the all-new Audi A4. Look closely and you’ll note sharper styling that’s in line with Audi’s crisp new design language. Interestingly, the new A4 is lighter than the model it replaces, despite being larger than it. As with all new Audis, the A4’s tech-loaded interior is the talking point. The cabin looks cutting edge but it will be interesting to see if Audi launches the A4 with the ‘virtual cockpit’ high-res digital instrument’s display in India. Audi’s 2.0-litre TDI engine will be the mainstay of the range, though the 2.0 TFSI turbo-petrol and 3.0 TDI diesel engine could also be headed our way.

Coming: Mar 2016
Est price:₹ 35-42 lakh
Engine(s): 2.0 P, 2.0 D, 3.0 D
Rivals: BMW 3-series, Mercedes-Benz C-class, Volvo S60

Volvo S60 Cross Country

SUVs are the ‘in’ thing, so much so that even budget hatchbacks try to emulate them. Bet you’ve never seen a cross sedan before, right? Meet the S60 Cross Country – a jacked-up sedan that can go off the beaten track. When it comes to India, it will get a 178bhp 2.0-litre diesel engine and AWD. So not quite Dakar material, but you’ll be quickest through the monsoon potholes.

Coming: Early 2016
Est price: ₹ 45 lakh
Engine(s): 2.0 D
Rivals: None

Jaguar XE

The XE will make Jaguar a lot more accessible in a sea of German competitors. The muscular-looking sedan balances sporty and luxurious deftly and also packs in loads of new tech. At its core is an all-aluminium chassis, a segment first, and at its heart is a brand new, very refined 2.0-litre diesel motor. You’ll also get a 2.0-litre petrol and hopefully V6 petrol, and diesel options will follow. And it will be assembled here from day one, so you can expect a competitive price. The entry luxury sedan segment is no longer a three-horse race.

Coming: End 2015
Est price: ₹ 38-40 lakh
Engine(s): 2.0 P, 2.0 D
Rivals: BMW 3-series, Audi A4

New Jaguar XF

While the current XF is really showing its age now, the new one promises a tough challenge to Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz.  The second-generation XF is roomier, lighter and more frugal than its predecessor. It is also far more technologically advanced than the earlier car. Inside, the XF features a far more contemporary design language. It comes with a 10.2-inch ‘dual-view’ touchscreen and JLR’s latest multimedia system, known as InControl Touch Pro. A 50:50 weight distribution allows the XF to be more driver-focussed without sacrificing comfort and ride quality. Jaguar will use the XE’s 178bhp 2.0-litre diesel and 2.0-litre turbo-petrol motors, both mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox. There is also a tweaked version of  the familiar twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 diesel, now offering a solid 296bhp. Topping the range for now is the F-Type’s 375bhp supercharged V6, but a V8-powered XFR can’t be too far down the line.

Coming: Apr 2016
Est price: ₹50-60 lakh
Engine(s): 2.0 P, 3.0 P, 2.0 D, 3.0 D
Rivals: BMW 5-series, Mercedes-Benz E-class, Audi A6

New BMW 7-series

BMW seems to have had enough playing second fiddle to the Mercedes-Benz S-class. It’s given everything and more to make the new 7-series as complete as can be. It’s larger than before, loaded with even more tech (it can be had with gesture-controlled menus!), and is lighter too thanks in part to the use of carbon-fibre in the body. Space and comfort also are a step up from the earlier car. Indian buyers may be most interested in its rear seats, but in true BMW tradition, the new 7-series is designed to be exciting to drive too. The 5.8 second 0-100kph time for the India-bound 730Ld (a 261bhp, 3.0-litre diesel) promises a really fast journey to the boardroom for potential owners. If petrol is your thing, there’s also the silken smooth 444bhp, 4.4-litre V8-powered 750Li.

Coming: Feb 2016
Est price: ₹ 1-1.5 crore
Engine(s): 4.4 P, 3.0 D
Rivals: Mercedes-Benz S-class, Audi A8, Jaguar XJ

New Mercedes-Benz E-class

It’s usually the flagship S-class that spearheads Mercedes’ new tech, but this time, the smaller E-class is packing a host of new stuff too. Automatic evasive steering and automated parking are expected to be just a small part of the package. Sharing its Modular Rear -drive Architecture (MRA) underpinnings with the C-class, the new E-class will be lighter than the outgoing model, and will borrow heavily in terms of styling from that car and the bigger S-class. Today’s engines will continue, but will later be replaced by more advanced new engines. There’s even word that an ultra-luxurious Maybach version of the E-class with a longer wheelbase is on the cards.

Coming: End 2016
Est price:₹ 50-60 lakh
Engine(s): 2.0 P, 2.1 D, 3.0 D
Rivals: BMW 5-series, Audi A6

Mercedes CLA facelift with AMG

Except for the front bumper and lights, styling changes on the CLA facelift will be minimal. Bigger changes, like the A-class facelift, are under the skin in the form of better interiors, more frugal engines and more tech. The top-of-the-line AMG CLA 45’s 355bhp output, already one of the most powerful for a four-cylinder car, is now up to a manic 376bhp.The CLA, like all new Mercs, will receive a new badging style for diesel models.

Coming: Diwali 2016
Est price: ₹ 32-37 lakh
Engine(s): 2.0 P, 2.1 D
Rivals: Audi A3

Jaguar XJ facelift

The British marque will freshen up its luxury limo for 2016. A few touches to the front bumper, new headlamps and larger alloys on the outside, Jaguar’s all-new eight-inch touchscreen-controlled InControl infotainment system, a 26-speaker, 1300W Meridian audio system on the interiors, and an updated, more powerful 296bhp, 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine are the few notable changes. Also on offer is a new XJ R-Sport version with a rear spoiler, sports seats and special trim on the inside.

Coming: End 2015
Est price:₹ 1-1.4 crore
Engine(s): 2.0 P, 3.0 P, 3.0 D
Rivals: BMW 7-series, Audi A8

BMW 3-series facelift

Three years after its India launch, BMW’s popular luxury sedan will get a very subtle update. There are mild styling tweaks at the front and rear, with the notable change being the optional full-LED headlamps. The engine line-up has been revised, but we’re likely to stick with the tried and tested 181bhp 2.0-litre diesel motor in the 320d. Overseas, however, there are also new petrol motors including a 181bhp or 248bhp four-cylinder and the 322bhp, six-cylinder 340i.

Coming: End 2015
Est price: ₹ 38-45 lakh
Engine(s): 2.0 P, 2.0 D
Rivals: Mercedes-Benz C-class, Audi A4, Volvo S60

Skoda Octavia RS

We’ve had RS versions of the Octavia and Laura in India, but the latest one is proving difficult for Skoda. The company is working hard to bring the new Octavia RS to India at a competitive price, but the new 2.0-litre TSI engine that punches out a stonking 217bhp will be quite expensive to bring here.
At an expected price of around Rs 30 lakh, the new Octavia RS will definitely be restricted to a more exclusive set of buyers than before, but for the real enthusiasts, that might be a price worth paying.

Coming: Mid 2016
Est price: ₹ 30 lakh
Engine(s): 2.0 P
Rivals: Audi A3

New Mini Clubman preview

The Mini Clubman is set to make its public debut at the Frankfurt motor show this September, and go on sale in international markets later this year. While the Mini Cooper S and the
Mini Cooper D and the Countryman are available here, the Clubman is sold only overseas.

The Clubman concept showcased at the Geneva motor show last year, displayed a car significantly different from its outgoing model. The Clubman will be larger because it shares the same front-drive platform that underpins the BMW 2-series.

Speculations are that the new Clubman will be a little over 4.2m — around 26cm longer than the previous Clubman. It could also be a significant 161mm wider and 24mm taller. The Clubman now gets four conventional doors, but instead of a conventional hatchback, it has the signature twin, side-hinged arrangement like on the current Clubman.

BMW has also decided to distinguish the car by tweaking the exterior and interior design. The interior styling is different; it gets a new dashtop moulding and a new centre console. On the outside, the Clubman has borrowed its front end from the Mini Rocketman concept.

The suspension set on the Clubman is as on its smaller sister, and company insiders expect it to be most impressive driver’s car in the class.

Like on the three-door Mini, the three- and four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines will be offered on the Clubman. A plug-in hybrid with a three-cylinder engine is also being considered. At a later stage, BMW might equip the car with an all-wheel drive.

Volvo V40 launched

Volvo has just launched the V40 hatchback at ₹ 24.75 (ex-showroom, Delhi) for the Indian market. The V40 is the standard version of the V40 Cross Country currently sold in the country.

The V40 appears to be quite similar to the Cross Country, but misses out on the body cladding and raised ride height of its sibling.

The V40 is available in two trims – Kinetic and R-Design – both of which are powered by the 147.5bhp D3 diesel engine from the V40 Cross Country mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. In terms of features, both trims get Volvo’s City Safe system along with ABS, traction control, and airbags – front, side, curtain and pedestrian as standard. Other features include dual zone climate control, powered front seats with memory, mood lighting and parking sensors.

The R-Design trim additionally gets some visual differentiation like a blacked-out grille and air dam, new alloys, panoramic glass roof and a new paint shade. In terms of features the R-Design gets the addition of keyless go, park assist and rain sensing wipers.

The Volvo V40 will rival the likes of the Mercedes A-class and BMW 1-series in the market.The car is currently built and imported from Belgium in the form of CBUs with no plans for local assembly in the near future.

Volvo has also announced that only 300 units of its new XC90 will be offered to customers in India this year. The original plan was to make 500 units available, but a strong international demand prompted the company to cut down on the allotted amount.

Prices of Volvo V40 (ex-showroom, Delhi)------
Volvo V40 Kinetic – ₹ 24.75 lakh

Volvo V40 R-Design – ₹ 27.7 lakh

Hyundai Creta launch

Hyundai will lanch their new Creta small SUV on July 21, 2015. The Creta, earlier known as the Hyundai iX25, will be Hyundai’s foray into the small SUV segment and will rival the likes of the Renault Duster and upcoming Maruti S-Cross which is also expected to launch next month.

Hyundai expects the new Creta to further strengthen the company's position in the Indian market, especially with the growing popularity of the SUV segment. The Creta was initially expected to be launched in August, but with the Maruti’s S-Cross coming in July, Hyundai rescheduled the launch, to keep one of the main rivals in check.

Hyundai has also released official design sketches of the upcoming SUV as a teaser of what to expect when it is launched in the market.

In terms of styling, the Creta gets black body cladding with faux scuff plates, a triple-slat hexagonal grille which will likely receive chrome treatment on the production version, angular headlamps with LED elements and though the sketches show twin-projector units, the production car may only get single projector lamps, robust-looking front and rear bumpers, 17 or 18-inch alloy wheels, neatly styled tail-lamps and around 200mm of ground clearance. The Creta has also been styled to look well planted, with the lower half of the car being wider than the top.

Hyundai Creta official interior design sketch.

On the inside, the Creta is expected to get colour-coordinated dashboards depending on the variant with the design sketches showing a dual tone dashboard with similar colour inserts carrying onto the doors. The centre console as per the sketches seems to get a media system similar to the one in the Elite i20 flanked by vertical air-con vents with silver surround though we expect the unit to be replaced by a touchscreen unit in the top variant. Lower down it gets the familiar climate control switch-gear as seen on its siblings. The multi-function steering is also similar to the one in the Elite i20. The instrument cluster consists of traditional dials that are easy to read. The Creta also gets twin cupholders placed besdie the hand-brake between the front seats and a central armrest along with rear air-con vents. Other inclusions in the Creta are the push button start, Bluetooth telephony controls on the steering and safety features such as ABS and dual airbags as standard.

Under the hood, the Creta is expected to be powered by Hyundai’s 1.6-litre diesel engine pumping out 126bhp and 26.5kgm of torque. Power will be sent to the wheels through a six-speed manual and an automatic gearbox. A 1.6-litre petrol engine developing 121bhp is also expected sometime in the future.

There are no details on the price of the Hyundai Creta, but expect it to be priced competitively in the segment.

Renault Alpine Celebration concept revealed

Renault revealed the Alpine Celebration concept car at the 24 hours of Le Mans. The concept car is expected to become the precursor to a production model due in 2016, when Renault re-launches the sportscar brand.

On the styling front, the Alpine Celebration concept pays homage to the Alpine A110 Berlinette with its scalloped bonnet and twin spotlights mounted high on the front bumper. The rear styling is also reminiscent of the A110, with the shoulder line tapering away behind the wheel arches. Other styling details are more contemporary. The orange and blue paint scheme is on the same line as the older Alpine models.

Renault has not revealed the technical specifications of the concept car other than it being a mid-engined layout.

The Celebration concept is the successor to the Alpine A110-50 concept which was revealed in 2012 featuring a V6 engine from the Renault Megane Trophy race car. However, the production version of the concept is expected to receive a less powerful engine with likely choices being either the 2.0-litre unit from the Renaultsport Megane or the 1.6-litre unit from the Renaultsport Clio. In terms of transmission, the production car is expected to feature a dual-clutch transmission.

The production version of the Alpine Celebration is expected to debut sometime early next year, before its launch in the international market.

Updated Jaguar XJ launched

Jaguar’s flagship sedan, the XJ has been given a mid-cycle update. The 2016 Jaguar XJ sedan gets new LED headlights, and the inside gets better quality leather seating. The sedan’s infotainment system also receives a thorough revamp. It now gets Jaguar’s InControl Touch Pro system.  

 

The Jaguar XJ facelift gets a new top-spec Autobiography trim for the international markets. This variant will be available only on the long wheelbase XJ sedan. The new Jaguar XJ Autobiography features 20-inch alloys, quilted leather seats, illuminated treadplates, special individual rear seat set-up and a bespoke rear entertainment system. Also on offer is the new 2016 Jaguar XJ R-Sport version. It gets minor styling tweaks, a rear spoiler, sport seats and special trim on the inside.

 

The Jaguar XJ’s 3.0-litre V6 diesel now churns out 296bhp while the 5.0-litre V8 powerplant remains untouched. As with the XJ’s 335bhp V6 engine. The updated XJ also gets a new electronic power steering system which, according to the company, is more responsive and helps improve agility.

Hyundai Grand i10x launched

Hyundai has launched a Grand i10-based crossover hatchback called the Grand i10X in Indonesia. The i10X sticks to the traditional crossover look, as with the i20 Active being sold in India.

In terms of styling, the Grand i10X gets a similar treatment as the i20 Active, with black body cladding, daytime running LEDs, plastic side extensions and a chrome-tipped exhaust. The new crossover also gets a raised ride height. Getting in, you will see a new steering, but otherwise the car retains its basic layout —a console-mounted gear shift lever, integrated audio system with 4 speakers, USB and aux ports, driver seat height adjustment, smart key with push button start, cooled glovebox and 256 litres of boot space. The car is powered by a 1.25-litre 86bhp petrol engine.

The Grand i10X will be the first cross-hatchback from Hyundai in Indonesia; the i20 Active is not offered in the market. Based on the Indonesian Grand i10, the car has more in common with the European model than the Indian one, and has slightly different exterior styling.

Renault Lodgy stepway launched

Renault's Lodgy line-up has received a new addition. The Lodgy Stepway, a more muscular-looking variant of the top RxZ trim of the Lodgy 110PS has been launched in India with prices starting at ₹ 11.99 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).

The Lodgy Stepway comes with a couple of cosmetic upgrades. There’s a new front grille, roof rails, body cladding, front and rear skid plates with metallic finish, branded door sills and 'Stepway' badging. The cabin, however, doesn’t get a makeover. It is available in both seven- and eight-seat layout, with features such as front airbags, ABS, rear parking sensors, reversing camera and touchscreen infotainment system being carried over.

Power comes from the 108.5bhp 1.5-litre K9K diesel engine mated to a six-speed manual gearbox.

Prices (ex-showroom Delhi)------

Renault Lodgy Stepway eight seater - ₹ 11.99 lakh

Renault Lodgy Stepway seven-seater - ₹ 12.29 lakh

Abarth to launch in India in august

We’d told you earlier that Fiat would be bringing its high-performance Abarth brand to India to add some zing to its model line-up and also boost its brand image. We can now report that you won’t have to wait much longer, as the brand will be hitting showrooms by August this year with not one, but three models.

The first will be the Abarth 595 It’s a higher performance version of the Abarth 500, which in turn, is a high-performance version of the Fiat 500, which was on sale in India previously in diesel guise. This stylish 158bhp hot hatchback will be brought in as a full CBU import, so you can expect a relatively high price of around Rs 27-30 lakh, which puts it right in the sights of the Mini Cooper. The engine is a highly strung version of the 1.4-litre T-Jet turbo-petrol motor you find in the Linea, and it gets a much stiffer suspension setup and bigger wheels compared to the standard car. It’s a car that should appeal to those trendy folk who want a bit of performance in a small, city-friendly package.

Much more exciting though, is the car that will follow after – the Fiat Punto Evo Abarth. It too will get the 1.4-litre T-Jet motor, albeit in a slightly lower 135bhp state of tune. That, however, will still make it, by far, the most powerful car in its segment. It will be Abarth branded, and will likely get sportier bumpers, wheels and decals too. Fiat could even give it a stiffer suspension set-up for better handling. The best part is, unlike the 595, this car will be locally assembled alongside the standard Punto Evo, so it will be very competitively priced. In fact, Fiat is working hard to localise as much of the car as possible to keep prices down, and since the 1.4 T-Jet is already in India in its 112bhp guise, applying the update to 135bhp will be easier to carry out. Another fun fact is that while the global Punto Abarth is a three-door car, ours will be a five-door. The closest thing this car has to a rival is the VW Polo GT TSI, which is an automatic, is down on power compared to the T-Jet, and uses the same suspension as the standard car.

The third car to get the Abarth treatment will be the Avventura, but the changes won’t be as significant as in the other two. The Avventura will get only the 135bhp T-Jet motor, without the accompanying suspension and visual changes that will come to the Punto Evo Abarth. It will look like the standard car, and rather than full-on Abarth branding, it will get a badge that says ‘Powered by Abarth’. This one is clearly targeted directly at the Ford EcoSport and its 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine, and while the Abarth makes around 10bhp more than the Ford, its torque figure is likely to be a fair bit higher.

Fiat wants Abarth to be a performance brand ‘for a variety of pockets and tastes’, and for that, pricing will be key. With heavy localisation, we can hope that the Abarth Punto Evo, and maybe even the T-Jet Avventura, make it within the Rs 10 lakh cut. What’s clear is that, despite currently having a model range of just three cars (now adding a fourth with the 595), with the introduction of Abarth to India, Fiat is really keen to quickly expand its brand and attract a variety of new buyers.

Ferrari Dino set to make a comeback

Chairman of Ferrari, Sergio Marchionne, has confirmed that the iconic Ferrari Dino model will make its comeback in the form of a mid-engine sportscar powered by a twin-turbocharged V6 engine.

Marchionne said that the revival of the Dino name was “not a question of if but when”. The Dino badge was originally used on V6 and V8-powered models in the 1960s and '70s, as Ferrari sought to make more affordable cars under a new sub-brand to push up volumes.

However, when the brand does make a comeback, it will not look to increase volumes nor enter at a lower price point. “We may produce a 500 horsepower Ferrari, but it will not be a cheap Ferrari,” he said. “The brand is unique and needs to be protected. I would rather build 500 fewer cars than the market demanded instead of 500 more. We must not mess with customer expectations of Ferrari as an exclusive brand.”

When introduced, the car is likely to be positioned alongside the California T. It will be engineered to deliver a ‘true’ sportscar-like performance, and rival the likes of the Lamborghini Huracan, McLaren 570S, the Porsche 911 GT3 RS, the Aston Martin V12 Vantage S, and the upcoming Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series.

BMW readying SUV X2

BMW is working on a new X2 model. It is expected to be a sporty-looking car, which will be previewed in its concept form early 2016, before it goes on sale internationally, late next year. The X2 will share the new BMW X1’s platform.

 BMW officials have confirmed that the X2 will get a uniquely styled steel body, following the example of the larger X4 and X6. 

                                                               BMW SUV teaser image

The new BMW X2 will feature a five-door layout, with its tailgate set at an extreme angle than the
X1 giving it a coupé-like silhouette. It will initially be offered with a range of four-cylinder engines. The addition of the more economical three-cylinder units within the first year is a possibility. The engines will be mated to either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic gearbox, in combination with front or four-wheel drive.

The X2 will be produced alongside the new X1 at BMW’s Regensburg factory in Germany.

NEW FIAT 500 to be unveiled

Fiat has announced that it will showcase a facelifted 500 on July 4, 2015. The refreshed 500 is expected to get minor changes on its exterior and interior to make it more in-line with its larger sibling, the 500X.

The date is of great significance to the Italian brand, as the original 500 was launched on the same date way back in 1957, and it was also when the current 500 was unveiled to the public in 2007. The original three-door hatchback 500 has spawned a series of models since, followed by the 500C convertible, the larger five-door 500L and the off-roading 500L Trekking, the 500X crossover and the seven-seater 500L MPW.

The 500 went through a facelift in 2014 and got a new digital dashboard and modifications made to the engine. The facelift this year is expected to see the car’s styling be tweaked to make it look more like the 500X, while on the inside it is expected to receive a 5.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system and an overall improvement in quality.

The new Fiat 500 is expected to make its debut at the Frankfurt motor show in September.

BMW 7-series unveiled

The new BMW 7-series has been officially unveiled. Expected to go on sale internationally later this year, the carmaker’s flagship sedan has undergone considerable re-engineering, and the use of carbon-fibre reinforced plastic, high-strength steel and aluminium has helped it shed around 130kg over the current model.

Measuring 5,098mm in length, 1,902mm in width and 1,478mm in height, the new 7-series is 19mm longer and 7mm higher than its predecessor in the standard wheelbase guise; width remains the same. The long-wheelbase variant gains an added 139mm, making it 18mm longer than the car it replaces, at 5,238mm. Both the standard and long-wheelbase variants share the same wheelbase measurements as the old 7-series models, at 3,070mm and 3,210mm respectively.

The diesel engine, in the 730d, is a 261bhp 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbo diesel motor that allows it to go from 0-100kph in 5.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 250kph. The petrol is a new turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder, which powers the 740Li. With 321bhp on tap, it has a 0-100kph sprint time of 5.5 seconds and a 250kph top speed. In the first half of 2016, BMW will provide the 7-series with a plug-in hybrid petrol-electric system in a new 740e model. Already employed in the X5 xDrive40e, it uses BMW’s new turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and an electric motor mounted within the gearbox — a combined output of 321bhp, 0-100kph in 5.6 seconds and a 240kph top speed in hybrid mode. The twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 petrol unit will be found in the 750i Xdrive internationally, next year. The engine delivers 444bhp, achieving a 0-100kph time of 4.4 seconds, and a 250kph top speed. A twin-turbo 6.0-litre V12 twin turbo is also set to join the 7-series range at a later stage. The V8 and the V12 are also set to be used by Rolls-Royce.

BMW is also looking at creating a new M7 or M750i M Performance version on the 7-series, that is likely to receive a heavily tuned version of the M5’s twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8 producing more than 600bhp.

All engines come as standard with an enhanced Drive Experience Control function, allowing the driver to choose between Comfort, Sport, Eco-Pro and a new adaptive mode that monitors driving style. As in other recent BMWs, the brake energy regeneration and automatic start-stop systems are complemented by a fuel-saving coasting function which decouples the engine on periods of trailing throttle at speeds between 50 and 160kph. All versions come with rear-wheel drive as standard. However, the optional four-wheel drive adds 70kg to the kerb weight.

The new 7-series rides on a heavily reworked suspension system. It now adopts air springs both at the front and rear, providing constantly variable damping control, automatic self-levelling and the ability to alter the nominal 135mm ride height on the go. The driver can raise ground clearance by 20mm using a button at speeds below 35kph. In Sport mode the ride height is automatically reduced by 10mm at certain speeds for improved aerodynamic efficiency.

The new car also comes with optional electro-hydraulically operated roll bars as part of the Executive Drive Pro function on all but the 740i and 740e. They replace the previous hydraulically operated roll bars, bringing what BMW describes as faster damper reaction time for improved ride comfort, a more progressive build-up of lean and reduced levels of body roll. As part of BMW’s weight-reducing effort, the wheel carriers, brake caliper housings, brake disc carriers and rear transverse suspension arms are all made of aluminium.

On the design front, there’s the revised bumper, kidney-shaped grille flanked by the LED headlights (laser headlights optional) and LED fog lights in the front. Along the flank there is a more pronounced shoulder, a taller glasshouse, and a chrome highlight runs along the lower edges of the doors. The rear has the high-set boot, tweaked bumper and the LED taillights are connected by a chrome strip.

The interior gets a newly designed dashboard, controls, updated digital instrument graphics that light up in either white, blue or red depending on the driving mode, a redesigned multi-function steering wheel and new front seats with ventilation and massage functions. There is also a Bowers and Wilkins surround-sound system, night vision, a glass roof that can be switched between six colours, and a head-up display with a larger screen than before. 

Also on offer are new iDrive control functions including touch and gesture controls that allow the driver to deliver commands with a wave of the hand, and a remote parking system which uses a stereo camera mounted within the windscreen, and radar sensors to allow forward and reverse parking maneuvers at the press of a button.

The BMW 7-series will rival the likes of the Audi A8, Mercedes S-class and the Jaguar XJ. 

Maruti S-cross specs revealed

Maruti unveiled the India-spec version of the S-Cross at the IIFA Awards on June 7, held in Malaysia. The India-spec car is slightly different from its international sibling, and will be powered by a Fiat-sourced 1.6-litre diesel engine.

In terms of styling, the S-Cross features black body cladding, faux skid plates at the front, back and both flanks, raised ground clearance, projector headlamps with daytime running lights, a new dual-slat chrome grille instead of the plain looking unit on the international model and new 16-inch alloy wheels. The production S-Cross will also not wear the Maruti Suzuki or Suzuki badge when it goes on sale; but will carry only the model name and a badge showing the engine specification on the tail-gate.

Inside, the S-Cross gets an all-black interior with silver inserts, climate control, rear air-con vents, a multi-function steering wheel and Maruti SmartPlay touch-screen infotainment system.

Under the hood, the S-Cross is powered by a Fiat-sourced 1.6-litre diesel engine developing 118bhp and 32kgm of torque, which will be mated to a six-speed manual gearbox.

The S-Cross will be sold alongside the Ciaz at Maruti’s new Nexa dealerships. The Nexa dealerships focus solely on the premium offerings from Maruti, with the Ciaz already being offered at said dealerships. The Nexa dealerships are also expected to offer the YBA compact SUV and YRA premium hatchback when they go on sale in 2016.

BMW 320d GT Sport Line launched

BMW has added a second variant to its 3-series GT line-up for the Indian market. This new variant is called the 320d GT Sport Line and is priced at ₹ 39.9 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).

 

The 3-series GT Sport Line gets black slats for the kidney grille with chrome surround. The bumper gets minor styling tweaks as well. At the rear, the exhaust tips get a black chrome finish.

 

On the inside, the new car gets special “BMW Sport” door sills. The leather-lined interior has a touch of red contrast stitching on the seats and steering wheel. Also on offer is a fine-wood trim with chrome details. The 320d GT Sport Line also gets customizable ambient lighting for the interiors that can be set in either orange or white. 

 

The 320d GT Sport Line is powered by the same 2.0-litre diesel motor as the standard variant and is available in five exterior shades.

Hyundai Santa Fe facelift revealed

Hyundai has revealed the facelifted version of the Santa Fe. Dubbed 'The Santa Fe Prime' in South Korea, the facelifted SUV gets exterior tweaks and minor mechanical changes with added features.

On the outside, the Santa Fe gets new front and rear bumpers with chrome detailing, LED guide lamps in the headlamps and LED daytime-running lights on the front bumper, a restyled grille, an optional panoramic sunroof, new 18- and 19-inch alloy wheels and LED light strips in the tail-lamps.

Inside, the refreshed SUV appears relatively unchanged. The only noticeable changes are revised accents on the dashboard and seats and new fonts on the instrument cluster. In terms of features, the Santa Fe gets the addition of Smart High Beam Assist, Dynamic Bending Lights, Advanced cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, a 360-degree camera and a JBL surround-sound system.

Mechanically, the SUV carries forward the engines from the outgoing model — the 2.0 and 2.2-litre diesel units which now offer improved response and emissions, and reduced vibrations.

The current-generation Santa Fe was launched in India last year. However it remains to be seen as to when Hyundai brings the updated version to our shores.

Back-to-basic Porsche 911 GT model under development

Porsche is developing an all-new 911 GT model that will focus primarily on driver involvement unlike the other GT models. This new model will be a complete detour from the current GT series models, including the GT2 RS, which is believed to be in the pipeline.

The GT model is expected to emphasise on simple driving pleasure and is engineered in a way radically different from the track-based RS models and the standard GT cars designed for everyday use.

The new car may get the narrower body of the base 911, and miss-out on the aerodynamic add-ons that have become synonymous with the model range. It will also see the return of the manual gearbox to the GT range since it was phased out in 2011, along with the older-generation models.

The new 911 GT is expected to be powered by Porsche’s 3.8-litre flat-six naturally aspirated engine from the current 911 GT3.

There is no information regarding the new model's name and though the company did recently trademark the GT5 badge, it is not expected to feature on this model. The badge is likely to be worn by a model that will be positioned below the Cayman GT4.

Audi A4 production ready guise

The new Audi A4 will make its debut at the Frankfurt motor show 2015. But for now, the upcoming iteration of Audi’s best-seller has been spotted testing on international roads. Images doing the rounds give a comprehensive view of the new A4, and it is clear that the new car has a neatly evolved design, and looks much sharper than the current model.

The change that immediately comes across is the roofline. It seems gradual and swoopy, and lends the new A4, a very attractive silhouette. Other changes on the outside that are prominent are the sleeker headlight and taillight assemblies, the contoured bumpers, the ridges on the bonnet, the new alloy wheels, and the crease running across the side of the car. It also seems a bit longer than the current car; could mean a longer wheelbase.

The new A4 is based on the second-generation of the flexible MLB platform. Internationally, it is likely to get seven engine options. They include four petrols (1.4, 1.8, 2.0 and 3.0-litre TFSI) and three diesel engines (1.6, 2.0 and 3.0-litre TDI). Transmission options are likely to be a six-speed manual gearbox and a nine-speed automatic; four-wheel drive may be offered as option. Audi is also likely to introduce hybrid avatars of the new A4.

Expect Audi to reveal complete details of the new A4 prior to its debut at Frankfurt.

Kia Cee'd leaked

An image of the facelifted Kia Cee'd has appeared online, giving the car an early debut several months before its planned appearance at the Frankfurt motor show in September.

This image, first published on a German website, reveals the Cee'd gets a modest set of mid-life revisions, mostly limited to its front and rear bumpers and light clusters. A series of modest tweaks to the interior are expected, too.

While this Cee'd appears to be a high-spec model in GT Line specification, full  specifications have yet to be confirmed. The GT Line is the first car in Kia's range to feature its new 1.0-litre three-cylinder T-GDI engine and seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

At the Geneva show, Kia promised that its GT Line trim would be available in Europe by the end of this year.

An all-new version of the Cee'd is scheduled to be launched in 2017 and has already been spotted testing.

Maruti Celerio diesel launched

Maruti Suzuki has just launched its anticipated Celerio diesel hatchback starting at ₹ 4.65 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

What makes this diesel hatchback unique is that it houses the first diesel engine developed in-house from scratch by Suzuki in its 63-year history. Until now the carmaker relied on Fiat-sourced diesel engines to power its vehicles, but has now decided to turn things around.

Moreover, despite the narrowing gap between petrol and diesel prices, the love affair between car owners and diesel cars in India is still very strong.

The Celerio is powered by Suzuki’s homegrown 793cc two-cylinder diesel, developing 47bhp at 3,500rpm and 12.7kgm of torque at 2,000rpm. However, power and torque are not the figures Maruti is counting on to bring in the sales. Rather, it’s relying on the Celerio diesel’s fantastic ARAI-tested 27.62kpl fuel economy figure to draw in buyers. In terms of claimed effiiciency, the Celerio is ahead of Maruti’s own Ciaz diesel, which until now held the title of the most efficient car in India. 

The car badged Maruti Celerio DDiS 125 is available in standard three trim levels — LDi, VDi and ZDi — and is equipped with a five-speed manual transmission as standard. The interiors remain unchanged, with the diesel variants sharing features similar to those on its petrol sibling. There is also an options pack on the ZDi that adds a front passenger airbag and ABS. Every trim of the Celerio diesel is priced around ₹ 75,000 more than the equivalent petrol trim.

Maruti says that the Celerio has sold over 95,000 units since its launch in February 2014 with the Auto Gear Shift variants accounting for nearly a third of the total sales. Within a year of the launch, Maruti Suzuki’s share in the lower hatchback reached 71 percent from the earlier 61 percent.

The automaker and its suppliers have together invested over ₹ 900 crore towards development of the DDiS 125 diesel engine and much like the recently launched Renault Kwid over 97 percent of the Celerio’s parts are sourced locally.

Here's a look at the prices for the Celerio diesel and its closest rivals, the Chevrolet Beat and the Hyundai Grand i10.

Maruti Celerio diesel - specifications
Cubic capacity	793cc
Power	47bhp
Torque	12.7kgm
Kerb weight	880kg
Length	3600mm
Width	1600mm
Height	1560mm
Wheelbase	2425mm
Ground clearence	165mm
Boot space	235 litre
Fuel efficiency (claimed)	27.62kpl

Isuzu D-Max

Isuzu has launched two new variants of the D-Max. The first being an air-conditioned version of Isuzu's single cab D-Max Flat Deck pickup priced ₹ 6.84 lakh (ex-showroom, NCR), and the second being a cab-chassis variant of the D-Max with a price tag of ₹ 5.99 lakh (ex-showroom, NCR).
The cab-chassis variant is designed to allow customers to custom build the load bed as per business requirements.

The company has said that the introduction of air-conditioning to the single cab truck is to help improve productivity and reduce driver fatigue. With the single cab D-Max in a cab-chassis variant the company hopes to extend its customer reach.

The Isuzu D-Max is currently offered in the single cab Flat Deck variant for the commercial markets and the more premium Arched Deck variant with a space cab which offers additional space behind the front seats for lifestyle buyers. Power is derived from a 2.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine developing 134 bhp and 29.97kgm of torque.

Isuzu currently has 20 dealerships across the country and the company plans to increase the tally to 60 by the end of the fiscal year.