Fiat Freemont to Debut at Geneva Motor Show

The next Geneva motor showwill host the debut of the new Fiat Freemont, which will go on sale in thesecond half of 2011.

The Freemont built on the base of the Dodge Journey, is the first Fiat vehicle to come out of the partnership with the Chrysler Group. It will be produced in the Mexican plant of Toluca, where the 500 is produced for the US market.

The very name conjures up a sense of freedom, the pleasure of life in the open air, of adventure and the possibility of facing any situation that arises in daily life with equanimity.

The Fiat Freemont is in fact a 'factotum vehicle' designed to meet the diverse needs of families and those seeking a spacious, comfortable and versatile vehicle to cater for the frenetic pace of everyday life or weekend leisure time.

The vehicle combines flexibility and practicality with its own distinctive and original style. The dimensions (length of 489 cm, width of 188 cm and height of 172 cm) guarantee outstanding interior roominess, aided by the best wheelbase in its category (289 cm).

The Fiat Freemont guarantees maximum roominess, comfort and versatility due to its 7 standard seats with a genuine third row of roomy seats that is easily accessible because the doors open to 90°. The seats of the third row may be folded down with one simple movement to disappear completely below the floor and create a regular load platform. The seats of the second row are fitted higher than those at the front while the third row is raised in relation to the second allowing all occupants maximum visibility.

The second row can also be fitted with the innovative child booster system: booster seats are used to make sure that children on board are sitting correctly, optimising the seatbelt geometry and guaranteeing greater protection, practicality and comfort.

On-board comfort is also assured by a high driving position, new roomy and ergonomic seats, a host of storage compartments, a generous luggage area with two compartments and a flat load platform for an overall capacity of up to 1461 litres.

The vehicle's very individual design includes muscular, decisive lines that are expressed in a front end with brand new bumpers and grille. The rear end has been redesigned with the adoption of a new bumper and LED tail lights.

The all-new passenger compartment features an up-to-date design and soft touch materials. Features include a wrap-around dashboard with chrome elements, a brand-new instrument panel, a strikingly good-looking central console and an innovative infotainment system with a large colour touchscreen.

To simplify the selection and purchase process, only two outfits will be provided that are aimed at different customer types. The equipment level for both outfits is extremely comprehensive and all the main content items comply with the 'Fiat fair price' strategy.

Both outfits will offer 7 seats, triple-zone automatic climate control system, keyless entry system, cruise control, advanced trip computer, tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), fog lights and touchscreen radio with colour screen and controls on the steering wheel. The more metropolitan version will include 17” alloys, touchscreen radio with 8.4” screen, SD card and DVD reader, Bluetooth system, rear parking sensors, fold-down door mirrors, automatic headlight activation, darkened rear windows and roof bars.

The Freemont will have front wheel drive with turbo diesel power units (140 HP or 170 HP 2.0 MultiJet) combined with a manual gearbox. Later, the vehicle will also be available in 4x4 versions with 170 HP 2.0 MultiJet and 276 HP 3.6 petrol V6 engines, both with automatic transmissions. With the exception of the powerful 3.6 litre unit from the Chrysler Group Pentastar family and its automatic transmission, all power units are produced and developed by FPT- Fiat PowerTrain.

The vehicle's dynamic performances have also been improved with the aid of Fiat engineering, which has developed and introduced a special suspension and steering configuration for greater accuracy and directness. Driving comfort is further guaranteed by significant improvements to passenger compartment soundproofing.

Safety is top level with 7 airbags, anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Hill-Holder and electronic roll mitigation (ERM) as standard on all vehicles.

Tata Venture Launched in Maharashtra; Tata Venture Price Starts @ Rs. 4 Lakh

Tata Motors announced the launch of Tata Venture in Maharashtra. The Tata Venture is a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) with the footprint and maneuverability of a hatchback car, but the interior space of a utility vehicle.

The less than 4 metre long Tata Venture can comfortably accommodate eight passengers in three front facing rows and has ample luggage space. A glasshouse effect with plug-in windows for second row passengers contributes to the distinctive exterior design while the contemporary interiors sport a two-tone beige and black theme.

Comfort and convenience of both driver and passengers have been adequately addressed with dual HVAC, power steering, power windows, reverse parking aid, keyless entry with engine immobilizer and rear wipers.

A semi monocoque construction provides the required rigidity while the robust shell has energy absorbing crumple zones built in. A collapsible steering and side impact beams protect occupants in an exigency. The Tata Venture meets crash safety norms applicable in the domestic market.

The Tata Venture is powered by a 1.4 litre turbo diesel engine, delivering 71 PS power, with best in class fuel efficiency among diesel MPVs in the country. The mileage as certified by ARAI is 15.42 kmpl.

The Tata Venture will be available in 5, 7 and 8-seater options in 3 row front facing configuration and will be available in a range of 5 colors and 3 trim levels.

The Tata Venture comes with a warranty of 2 years or 75,000 kms (whichever is earlier). In Maharashtra, it will be available across 42 dealerships (20 passenger car dealerships and 22 commercial vehicle dealerships) in the first phase.

Tata Venture Price in Maharashtra India:

The Tata Venture is priced in the range of Rs. 4 lakh and Rs. 5 lakh, ex-showroom Kalyan (Thane district), BS III.

Toyota Etios Production to be Double

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt. Ltd will almost double production of its newly launched the Etios sedan to prevent prospective buyers from opting for other models as the waiting period now stretches to as much as eight months. The Indian arm of Japan's Toyota Motor Corp. will start a second production shift at its Bidadi plant in Karnataka to meet growing demand, deputy managing director Sandeep Singh said. "There is nothing much that we can do with the kind of demand the Etios has generated. It has taken us by surprise," said Singh. "From April onwards, we will start second shift production at our Bidadi plant." Launched in December last year, the Etios has a waiting period of six-eight months, according to the Bangalore-based firm. With the second shift starting April, the company hopes to reduce this to three-four months.

"Currently we produce at least 2,500 units a month, but the demand is of around 7,000 units. It is quite difficult to bridge that gap in a quick time," said Singh. Production will be raised to 4,500-5,000, he added. The Etios, priced at below '5 lakh in an aggressive bid to enter the mass market, received 3,077 bookings in two days after its launch. The company said it has bookings for about 18,000 Etios cars. The company's second India plant, which is located in Bidadi, and cost '3,200 crore, has an annual capacity of 70,000 vehicles. Production began at Bidadi in December last year. "A long waiting period for the Etios may compel buyers to move to rival brands. It will have to act fast," said Akshay Bhalla, managing director, Protiviti Consulting Pvt. Ltd. The car is pitched against other entry-level sedans such as Maruti Suzuki India Ltd's Dzire and Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd's Logan. "We have our plans in place, which will yield results in the coming years," Singh said, without elaborating. "A lot of the focus will be on localization."

The company looks to increase the proportion of locally made parts in the Etios to more than 90% from 70%. Toyoto has invested '500 crore to set up an engine and transmission plant on the outskirts of Bangalore in a bid to increase local content in its models. The plant will produce 100,000 engines a year from the July-September quarter of 2012 and 240,000 transmissions starting early 2013. The engines will be exclusively for the Etios, but the transmissions may be exported. In the case of the Innova, the multi-purpose vehicle that's the company's largest selling model in India, 65% of the parts are locally made. The Corolla has 50% local content. Toyota aims to sell 140,000 units in the country in 2011, with the Etios accounting for half of this number. According to the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers, the company sold 56,670 cars in the April-December period, registering a growth of 27.79% over the same period in 2009.

The market for small cars, which comprise 70% of all cars sold in India, has become increasingly competitive in recent times, with the launch of a range of new models such as the Ford Figo, the Maruti Ritz, the Fiat Grande Punto, the Volkswagen Polo, the Chevrolet Beat and the Nissan Micra. Toyota will launch its first small car in India, the Liva, a hatchback version of the Etios, by the end of April. "It will also have to get its small car right in terms of pricing and positioning. This will help it register a significant growth in market share," said Bhalla of Protiviti Consulting. Toyota is aiming to boost its 3-4% market share in India by entering mass-market segments with cars such as the Liva and the Etios. It currently trails Maruti Suzuki India Ltd, Hyundai Motors India Ltd, Tata Motors Ltd and General Motors India Pvt. Ltd in market share.

Hero Honda KARIZMA ZMR Cricket Championship Launched

As the final countdown begins for the much-awaited ICC Cricket World Cup 2011, Hero Honda Motors Ltd. – the world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer and a Global Partner (GP) of the ICC - has unleashed a slew of activities, offering exciting opportunities for fans to realise their cricketing dreams and get closer to their cricketing icons.

With the cricket fever catching on, Hero Honda announced the “KARIZMA ZMR Cricket Championship” to be hosted in Colombo, Dhaka and 75 cities spread across the country prior to the World Cup.

Spanning over two weeks, the KARIZMA ZMR Cricket Championship will feature cricket teams from several city colleges, who will compete to be the best in their respective cities. Twenty-eight city teams will be finally chosen for the dream-come-true opportunity to take a ‘Victory Lap’ each during a World Cup match, hosted in their city or region. In addition, many winners will also get another opportunity – this time to pose with the World Cup trophy, during the trophy tour being organised on the sidelines of the championship.

Moreover one additional team will be chosen nationally through an online contest. This team will be chosen basis their performance in a cricket-based video game which can be played on mobile phones and computers. And this team gets the Biggest Prize of all – they will get to take their Victory Lap in the final match of the ICC Cricket World Cup in Mumbai!

Hero Honda – one of the largest corporate promoters of sports in the country – is also organising a tour of the ICC Cricket World Cup trophy. The trophy has already been taken to Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Pune, Chennai, Hyderabad and Bangalore, and Colombo in Sri Lanka. It will now be taken to Delhi, Chandigarh and Dhaka (Bangladesh) so that fans can actually get to see the all-important trophy for themselves.

Speaking on the occasion, Anil Dua, Sr. VP (Marketing & Sales), Hero Honda Motors Ltd. said “If big time cricket is here, you can trust Hero Honda to bring in exciting innovative concepts for cricket fans and enthusiasts. Taking a Victory Lap at an international cricket match – that too at an ICC Cricket World Cup match – is any cricketer’s dream.

And Hero Honda is playing the catalyst in helping young, budding college cricketers realise that dream. Does it get bigger than this! It’s our own unique way of not just raising a cheer for the game of cricket but also for the FANS – who have made cricket a religion in this part of the world.”

The ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 – to be played in India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka - begins on February 19th and will continue till April 2nd 2011.

Hero Honda has been actively promoting various disciplines of sports, including cricket, golf, tennis, football, shooting and hockey. Besides promoting sports and sportspersons at the highest level, the company has also been committed to the promotion of various sports at the grass root level.

50th Anniversary for Famous Car in History Jaguar E-Type

This year marks the 50th anniversary of one of the most famous and desirable cars in automotive history - the Jaguar E-Type.

Jaguar will be celebrating this special anniversary year at high-profile motoring events throughout 2011.

The company will mark the anniversary at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show and go on to celebrate at Goodwood's Revival and Festival of Speed, the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, the Nurburgring Old Timer Grand Prix and a host of Jaguar customer, dealer and lifestyle events worldwide.

When it was launched in 1961, the appeal of E-Type transcended the automotive world. Such is the inherent rightness of its proportions, stance and purity of line, that it is a permanent exhibit in New York's Museum of Modern Art.

The now iconic E-Type set new standards in automotive design and performance when it was launched in 1961. Its influence is still apparent in Jaguar's modern range: cars that offer a peerless blend of performance, comfort, cutting-edge technology and award-winning design.

"Half a century of progress has not diminished the significance of the E-Type," said Mike O'Driscoll, Managing Director Jaguar Cars and Chairman Jaguar Heritage. "It was a sensation when it was launched, and remains Jaguar's most enduring and iconic symbol. The E-Type is simply one of the most exciting cars ever created and a legacy to the genius of Jaguar's founder, Sir William Lyons."

E-Type owners included celebrities such as George Best, Brigitte Bardot, Tony Curtis and Steve McQueen and the sports car became as synonymous with the Swinging Sixties as the Beatles and the mini skirt.

"It is impossible to overstate the impact the E-Type had when it was unveiled in 1961," said Ian Callum, Jaguar Design Director. "Here was a car that encapsulated the spirit of the revolutionary era it came to symbolise. The E-Type is a design that even today continues to inform the work we do in styling the Jaguars of the future."

Unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1961, Jaguar's E-Type caused a sensation. Capable of achieving 150mph, but costing a fraction of the price of rivals with similar performance, it was the affordable supercar and became an instant icon - remaining on sale for 14 years.

Jaguar E-Type facts for editors:

The E-Type was presented to the world's press at the restaurant du Parc des Eaux Vives in Geneva on 15th March 1961. Such was the media excitement and clamour for demonstration runs up a nearby hillclimb that Jaguar founder Sir William Lyons instructed chief test driver Norman Dewis to drive through the night from Coventry to bring another model to Switzerland.

Even Enzo Ferrari admitted it was "the most beautiful car in the world."

The E-type's straight-six engine had powered Jaguar to five Le Mans victories in the 1950s and by 1961 in 3.8-litre form produced 265bhp and 260lb ft of torque, making the car a genuine 150mph proposition and, like its XK120 predecessor, the fastest production car in the world.

At launch the E-Type cost £2,256 15s, including purchase tax and the all-important optional wire wheels, the equivalent today of just £38,000.

The E-Type's perfectly proportioned bodywork was the work of Malcolm Sayer, an aeronautical engineer by training who also applied his aerodynamic expertise in shaping the earlier Le Mans-winning C and D-Type racers.

The E-type remained in production for 14 years, selling more than 70,000 units, making it Europe's first mass-produced sports car.

Source: Tata Motors

Maruti 7th Most Trusted Brand Among 300 Brands

The automobile sector has made quite an impression on the nation as one of the most trusted sectors, according to a study released by The Trust Research Advisory (TRA). The report has ranked India’s first indigenous car brand Maruti, at seventh place, whilst leading two-wheeler brand Hero Honda came in at 13th place and international luxury brand BMW at 33rd place. Hyundai drove in at 43rd place, whilst TVS at 54th place. Toyota was ranked at 66th place, Ford at 74th place, Mercedes Benz at 81st position, Audi at 104th place and Suzuki at 118th place. Skoda was 126th on the list, whilst Tata was at 159th place. Ferrari was at 162nd position.

The revelations were a result of a study, published by Trust Research Advisory (TRA), a leading research organization dedicated to understanding and simplifying concepts related to Trust. The study, compiled into a 116-page report titled “The Brand Trust Report, India Study, 2011” was launched at a press meet, held recently, in New Delhi

The Brand Trust Report, India Study, 2011 is the result of years of detailed research to understand trust which included several hundred hours of discussions with communication experts and behavioural scientists. On this basis TRA created a proprietary Trust Matrix comprising 61 different components. Based on this proprietary Trust Matrix, TRA launched a syndicated primary research on Brand Trust across 9 cities in India covering 2310 respondents who were classified into the ‘influencer’ category. The most intensive study on Brand Trust undertaken in the country, the study generated nearly 10,00,000 data points and 16,000 brands. Indian Statistical Institute helped create a statistically robust Brand Trust.

Mr. N. Chandramouli, CEO, Trust Research Advisory (TRA) said, “The parameters under which this comprehensive study was carried out by TRA, is the first of its kind in the country. I believe that this detailed study on Brand Trust™, will benefit the automobile sector in the long run. I wish them all the best in all their future endeavors and hope they make their way higher in the coming years as one of India ‘most trusted brands’.”

Maruti’s Composite Brand Trust scores stay very close to the average line with the third lowest variance across the 10 composite parameters showing a strong consistency. Whilst there are no major shifts seen in these composite scores, the little extra edge is given to Maruti’s Brand Trust by its outward appearance, representative of the brand’s attractive appearance, appropriate expression, conformation to high standards.

Whilst the brand maintains a good balance in composite scores, its zonal pulls and variations are quite high. Maruti’s East and North zone trust indices are substantially higher than the other two zones. The East zone pull leads the lowest brand trust zone, the west by three times and the next lowest zone, south by almost two times.

Maruti’s highest score among primary attributes of Brand Trust is in the brand’s consistency over time, something that Indians will relate to closely.

Imported Car TORQUE Launched in India by Parveen Auto

Parveen Automobiles (P) Limited, has launched a new state of the art unit, in the name and style of THE TORQUE. This company will focus exclusively only on foreign and imported cars, which are now more frequently seen on Indian roads. This multi branded Service Facility spread over 9000 Sq Ft area will offer professional expertise in buying, selling, maintenance, service, spare parts and accessories exclusive for all kind premium & luxury imported cars under one roof.

Addressing the media A.Sadiq, Director, AB Group said with our vast experience in the transportation industry, we noticed that there was a clear demand for providing total care and solutions to the various issues faced by imported and high end vehicles. The Premium & Luxury car market in India is growing over 25% year on year, over the last 3 years. Simultaneously the growth in vehicle sales requires efficient and prompt service. With car technology changing rapidly, to keep in tune with environment concerns (Electricals & Electronics) there is a need for specialist service provider who has the experience and expertise to constantly upgrade and keep pace with changing trends. This involves capital intensive machinery & equipments along with trained manpower to do the needful apart from monetary resources.

Sadiq added "THE TORQUE," is Chennai's first ever completely integrated service facility, offering specialized services such as Periodical Maintenance, Engine Diagnostics, Body Shop, Paint shop, Wheel Care, Air Conditioning services, Cars Spa, Customizing Performance & Tuning. The workshop is strategically located at Ambattur Industrial Estate in Chennai, with close proximity to leading vehicle manufacturers such as Mercedes, Audi, Volkswagen, Fiat etc. There is sufficient bay region and The TORQUE has tied up with leading brands such: 3M for high range of car care solutions, MOBIL 1 for synthetic oil which ensures optimal performance, Asian PPG for paints, Lorinser for body customization and auto tuning and Launch for car diagnostic scanners. With Chennai seeing a lot of activity of imported cars in the last few years, we are confident that our new initiative will be very successful and will be well received by the target group.

Photo Source: Automotive Horizon

Source: Parveen Automobiles (P) Limited

Piaggio Aprilia Launched in India

Piaggio Vehicles Pvt. Ltd, the Indian subsidiary of Piaggio & C s.p.a of Italy unvled the superbike Aprilia RSV4 Factory at the Mumbai International Motor Show along with Vespa LX 125- iconic two wheeler that is hailed around the world as not just a scooter, "It's a way of Life."

Piaggio's is all set to get pulses racing and the adrenaline pumping for afficionados of racing bikes and scooters. Vespa will be launched in Q1 201. The price of Aprilla will be between Rs. 13 lakh to 18 lakh.

Source: Piaggio Vehicles Pvt. Ltd

New Audi R8 5.2 FSI with V10 Engine Launched in India

Audi, the German luxury car manufacturer, announced the launch of the much awaited all new Audi R8 5.2 FSI for India, thereby strengthening its leadership position in the super sports car segment. Propelled by a powerful V10 quattro engine and built using the lightweight Audi Space Frame (ASF) design, the new Audi R8 V10 goes from zero to 100 km/h in a mere 3.9 seconds, boasting of a top speed of 316 km/h. The Audi R8 5.2 FSI will be priced at INR 1,32,49,000 (ex-showroom Maharashtra).

"The Audi R8 V10 exemplifies our belief in developing and delivering world class automobiles to sports car enthusiasts in India. Embodying our philosophy of "Vorsprung durch Technik," every Audi R8 5.2 FSI is hand-built and demonstrates paramount engineering excellence that is skillfully blended with distinct design cues which will enable us to establish new benchmarks in the performance sports car segment" said Michael Perschke, Head, Audi India.

The new Audi R8 5.2 FSI is firmly rooted in Audi's great motorsport tradition. The Audi R8 5.2 FSI will be available with a manual six-speed transmission or R tronic which enables the driver to change gears in an instant via rocker switches on the steering wheel. The quattro permanent all wheel drive technology used along with the "Launch Control" function, which is integrated with both types of transmission, helps maintain absolute stability and driving comfort while catapulting the car forward from a standing start to give owners a premium performance car experience.

Built of aluminum in the Audi Space Frame design, this high performance automobile weighs a mere 210 kgs without compromising on handling, drive quality and safety standards. The exterior of the Audi R8 5.2 FSI is refreshed with newly designed sideblades to increase air intake and maximize performance. A very distinctive design highlight of the R8 V10 is the all-LED headlights as standard equipment.

Completely hand-built with an extensive list of standard equipment, the Audi R8 5.2 FSI is customizable right down to the finest detail, giving performance car enthusiasts an absolutely premium experience. Precisely stitched interiors for leather packages add to the luxuriousness of the segment defining Audi R8 5.2 FSI.

"Progressive and sporty, the Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro is a category winner. A powerful combination of performance and design excellence, this 2010 World Performance Car winner follows in the footsteps of its predecessor, (the 2008 World Performance Car award winning V8 powered R8), to create exhilarating experiences for drivers in India.

We are confident that the Audi R8 V10 will help us consolidate our leadership position in the super sports car segment in India and replicate the success we enjoy in the luxury SUV segment with the Audi Q7. Our fast expanding dealer network will ensure that our buyers have an optimum ownership experience and deliver on values our brand stands for," added Michael Perschke.

In 2010, Audi sold 3003 units, exceeding targets to achieve record growth of 81%. For 2011, Audi India will continue to expand its product lineup and deliver path breaking and award winning automobiles to customers in India.

Audi India is also focused at strengthening its dealer network across India with the forthcoming openings of showrooms in Delhi and Ludhiana. Last year, the company inaugurated showrooms in Mumbai, Kolkata, Jaipur and Bengaluru.

The Audi model range in India includes Audi A4, Audi A6, Audi A8, Audi Q5, Audi Q7, Audi TT and the super sports car Audi R8. The entire Audi model range is available across the country: in Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chandigarh, Chennai, Delhi, Gurgaon, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Kochi, Kolkata, Ludhiana, Mumbai West and Pune. Further developments include Surat, Mumbai South, Coimbatore, Indore and Lucknow.

Source: Audi India

Volvo XC60 Wins Import SUV of the Year Award

Volvo XC60 has been presented the 'Import SUV of the Year Award' by Car India Awards 2011. The award was given to Paul de Voijs, Managing Director, Volvo Auto India. Powered by the high performance, latest generation D5 Twin-Turbo diesel engine, Volvo XC60 is the only SUV in its category to present innovative technology such as Laser Assisted Automatic Braking (City Safety), Turn with Steering Lights (Active Bending Lights), Haldex AWD (All Wheel Drive) with Instant Traction, Continuously Controlled Chassis Concept (FOUR-C) and Power Tailgate amongst others.

"We are proud that Volvo XC60 has been bestowed with the 'Import SUV of the Year Award' by this respectable group of jurors. This award befittingly acknowledges and recognizes our endeavour of bringing alive an SUV which is smart, stylish, technologically advanced and powerful. The Volvo XC60 has been received very well by customers and reviewers alike," said de Voijs. "This strengthens our foundation in India further and adds another chapter in Volvo Cars' India story." He added.

Launched in India in November, 2010, Volvo XC60 has been a great success globally and has won over 28 prestigious awards including – United States: International Truck of the Year; UK: SUV of the Year; Australia: Best SUV over $40,000; Germany: Paul Pietsch Award for City Safety; Germany: Autoflotte Award; France: Innovation for Safety Award; Russia:"Golden Klaxon", the best compact crossover; Portugal: Innovation & Technology Award; Malaysia: Car of the Year with special mention of safety award.

Source: Volvo India

Honda Civic Sunroof Price Starts @ Rs. 13.53 Lakh Launched by Honda Siel Cars India

Honda Siel Cars India, leading manufacturer of premium cars in India, today launched the new Honda Civic with sunroof in presence of renowned Bollywood actress Chitrangada Singh along with Tatsuya Natsume, Director, Marketing, HSCI and Jnaneswar Sen, Vice President , Marketing, HSCI.

The introduction of sunroof gives the car an impressive panoramic feeling making it look brighter and larger. The Sunroof was found to be the most desirable feature in the Civic based on the customer's feedback.

Honda Civic will have a new color Urban Titanium along with the existing colors available in the range.

Speaking on the occasion, Tatsuya Natsume, Director, Marketing, Honda Siel Cars India Ltd. said, "We are delighted to introduce the new Civic with sunroof which further augments the style quotient of the car and make it even more desirable. We believe that this variant will greatly appeal to the customers for whom the style is a way of life."

Launched in 2006, the Honda Civic redefined the lower D segment of passenger car segment in India. HSCI has sold over 50,000 units cumulatively in the last 4.5 years and has won several automobile awards including the Indian Car of the Year (ICOTY) 2007 and topped the JD Power Initial Quality Study in 2010 with the best ever score in the Industry.

The 1.8 L i-VTEC engine in the new Honda Civic is the most advanced engine technology available in the segment. It combines Honda's i-VTEC (Intelligent Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) technology with VTC (Variable Time Control), delivering both powerful performance and superior fuel economy. The ARAI fuel efficiency results of 15.5 km/l for Civic MT reiterates its unmatched fuel economy.

The Honda Civic comes fully loaded with various active and passive safety features including ABS (Anti – Lock braking system) with EBD (Electronic Brake – Force Distribution System) & Brake Assist, Dual SRS airbags and pre-tensioner seat belts. Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering Body (ACE) and G-CON (G-Force Control Technology) provide a high integrity survival zone that enhances self-protection and better compatibility in collisions with other vehicles.

The Honda Civic comes with a 2+2 year warranty and 24-hr roadside assistance as standard value for all new Civic buyers.

The Honda Civic Sunroof range will be available at the following prices (Ex-showroom Delhi):

Honda Civic sunroof Price in India

Honda Civic 1.8V MT Price Rs. 13.53 lakh

Honda Civic 1.8V AT Price Rs. 14.27 lakh

Source: Honda Siel Cars India

Tata Nano Diesel May Launch by September 2011

The much anticipated diesel version of country’s cheapest car Tata Nano is expected to hit the Indian roads by September 2011, as speculated in recent media reports.

The diesel engine of the car is expected to be in the range of 600 to 700 cc, carrying a comparatively higher price tag from its petrol counterpart. The world's smallest turbo system for Nano has been developed by Honeywell. The engine will incorporate a super small Bosch common rail direct injection (CRDi) system. The other partners of the Nano’s diesel engine project are AVL, FEV and Ricardo.

After its launch in the country, the Tata Nano diesel will be the cheapest and smallest diesel engine powered car available in the Indian market. So far, there is no diesel-run car present in the segment A (Maruti 800) and A+ ( Maruti Alto ) in the country.

The launch of a diesel version could turn around the fortunes for small wonder Tata Nano that is currently struggling with sagging sales in its domestic market due to some safety concerns and increased price.

Earlier this month, the company had announced to offer open sales of the car at all of its 874 sales outlets spread across the Indian market.

Maruti Suzuki Kizashi to be launched in India in February

Most awaited car Maruti Kizashi is all set to be launched in the India on 2nd February, 2011. The Maruti Suzuki Kizashi will be available at a price rance of Rs. 12 to Rs. 15 lakh. Maruti Kizashi will be the competitor for of Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla Altis and Volkswagen Jetta at the lower end, and Honda Accord and Toyota Camry at the upper end.

As per a recent statement given to PTI, Maruti Suzuki India Managing Executive Officer (Marketing & Sales) Mayank Pareek said, "This (Kizashi) is our attempt to be future ready, as we believe the A4 and A5 segment (luxury) is going to grow. It is small at the moment but the way the economy is growing, this segment is going to be big."

"There are nine million Maruti Suzuki customers at present. Many of them want to move up and have been asking after the SX4, what next? What we are doing here is to provide them options in luxury segment," Mr. Pareek said.

Maruti Kizashi model will be launched in India in both manual and automatic transmission versions. Maruti Kizashi will be the most expensive car in India for Maruti Suzuki.

Honda Brio India: Small Car Honda Brio Price & Availability

Honda Brio is a small car by Honda Cars. Honda Brio is coming soon in 2011 in India. Honda Brio is the second hatchback car from Honda after Honda Jazz. Honda Jazz is already made its mark in India. Honda Brio will be the car with competing Maruti Swift, Ford Figo, Hyundai i10. Honda Brio will be favored by the reliability of Honda cars in India and the Honda brand name. Honda Brio will be favored by the reliability of Honda Vehicles in India and the Honda brand name . It is a 1.2L engine powered car is a 1.2L engine powered car with a compact design and cool interiors.

Honda Brio Price in India:

The new Honda Brio price will be less than Rs.5 lakh in India

Honda Brio will be available in India Soon in 2011.

Toyota Etios Liva India: Toyota Etios Liva Price & Features

Toyota Etios Liva is a hatchback car version of Toyota Etios Sedan. Toyota Etios Liva will come in 1.2L petrol engine producing 80BHP of peak power. Initially only the petrol version of the car will be launched and later the 1.4L diesel engine Toyota Etios Liva car will be launched.

Toyota Etios Liva will be launched in India in March 2011.

Toyota Etios Liva Price in India:

Petrol Car Toyota Etios Liva Price will start from Rs. 4.5 Lakh

Diesel Car Toyota Etios Liva Price will cost around Rs. 5.5 Lakh

Toyota Etios Liva Features & Specifications:

- Economical of luxury, sets the new global standard in quality.

- Technology that provides a perfect balance of sporty performance and driving pleasure.

- Innovative bold styling combined with simplicity that is a class above.

- Outstanding comfort, durability and efficiency all of which are a first for India.

- Safety without any compromise making a world of a difference.

Maruti To Hike Car Prices

The wave of increase in car prices has started with the Indian can manufacturer, Maruti Suzuki India Ltd joining the hub. India's largest car manufacturer, Maruti today declared the the prices of its car will face a hike in the coming week. Like other companies, Maruti has also given the major reason of the increase in prices to hike in input costs which the company is facing. But Maruti Suzuki India Ltd. is not announcing a hike in prices for the first time as it has happened twice in this financial year.

As per the company officials, they are going through shrinking margins which is the major reason that a decision of increase in price has been taken. Mainly car manufacturers are facing increased prices of essential commodities like aluminium, steel, rubber and other key components which are taken as basic inputs in car manufacturing.

Maruti Suzuki has to face an additional problem apart from price hike in inputs, and that is the costlier imported parts from its Japan plant as the value of Yen against US dollar has strengthened. Thus the paired factors have worsened the situation for the company.

As per Mayank Pareek who is the Managing Executive Officer for sales and marketing, the company is not left with any other option but to increase the price of its portfolio cars. Though for now no official statement is made as by what percent the hike will be introduced.

Maruti Suzuki India Ltd. has plans to increase the production of Maruti Alto, the highest selling small car to 40,000 units from earlier 32,000 units on a monthly basis. As per the company officials, the instructions to ramp up the supplies to the vendors is already given. The car brings a large volume of sales to the company and is a major player in its segment. The company is expecting better sale of Maruti Alto in coming times.

Source: cardekho.com

New Face-Lifted Honda Accord in India Soon

The Indian unit of Japanese auto giant Honda is gearing-up to launch the new 2011 Honda Accord in the Indian market, next month. The new generation Honda Accord carries a minor face-lift, offering it a bold and aggressive look. The company is already selling this car in the US market.

The new Accord comes blessed with a number of cosmetic changes and offers an enhanced exterior and interior. The upgrades at the exterior include a new front grille, newly-styled rear deck lid and re-styled wheels. While in the Interior, the car comes blessed with a redesigned instrument panel and the buttons of climate control have been shifted nearer to driver.

Moreover, it will be carrying a better fuel economy as compared to the same of its predecessor. The car will be launched with the same engine options in the country including 2.4L, 4-cylinder and a 3.5L V6 engine, delivering a peak power of 177 bhp and 271 bhp, respectively. Same as the existing model, the new Accord is expected to be rolled-out in both manual and automatic transmission versions in the Indian market.

At present, the Honda Accord model is available in the price range of Rs 19,15,500 - Rs 27,68,831 (ex-showroom Mumbai).

Source: CarTradeIndia.com

Maruti Suzuki Alto: Best Selling Car in The World

Maruti Suzuki Alto, the highest volume car in the Indian market, has become the biggest selling car in the world in year 2010. The Maruti Alto left behind the likes of Volkswagen Golf and Fiat Uno in a number of world markets. Incidentally, this is the first time in the history of Indian automobile industry when a car that is best selling in the Indian market has surfaced as a global best seller.

The overall sales of Alto increased by 25 percent during this year as compare to the sales in the preceding calendar year. The launch of a new peppier version of Alto, the Alto K10, kept the sales momentum alive for the car throughout the year.

As per a recent statement given by Mr. IV Rao, managing executive officer (engineering), Maruti Suzuki India Ltd., “The K10 has been very well received and has been responsible for the growth that we witnessed last year. We are confident it will do even better this year.”

The Maruti Alto has been one of the most successful cars in the Indian market since its launch in year 2000. It is topping the sales chart in the country since year 2006, constitutively. The Alto sales are expected to touch the 4,00,000 unit market in next calendar year.

Source: CarTradeIndia.com

Tata Venture Price Starts @ Rs. 4.05 Lakh Launched in Rajasthan

Tata Motors today announced the launch of Tata Venture in Rajasthan. The Tata Venture is a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) with the footprint and maneuverability of a hatchback car, but the interior space of a utility vehicle.

The less than 4 metre long Tata Venture can comfortably accommodate eight passengers in three front facing rows and has ample luggage space. A glasshouse effect with plug-in windows for second row passengers contributes to the distinctive exterior design while the contemporary interiors sport a two-tone beige and black theme. Comfort and convenience of both driver and passengers have been adequately addressed with dual HVAC, power steering, power windows, reverse parking aid, keyless entry with engine immobiliser and rear wipers.

A semi monocoque construction provides the required rigidity while the robust shell has energy absorbing crumple zones built in. A collapsible steering and side impact beams protect occupants in an exigency. The Tata Venture meets crash safety norms applicable in the domestic market.

The Tata Venture is powered by a 1.4 Litre turbo diesel engine, delivering 71 PS power, with best in class fuel efficiency among diesel MPVs in the country. The mileage as certified by ARAI is 15.42 kmpl.

The Tata Venture will be available in 5, 7 and 8-seater options in 3 row front facing configuration and will be available in a range of 5 colors and 3 trim levels.

The Tata Venture comes with a warranty of 2 years or 75,000 kms (whichever is earlier). In Rajasthan, it will be available across 24 dealerships (13 passenger car dealerships and 11 commercial vehicle dealerships) in the first phase.

Tata Venture Price in India:

The Tata Venture is priced in the range of Rs. 4.05 lakhs and Rs. 5.07 lakhs (ex-showroom Jaipur).

Source: Tata Motors

Overdrive Awards 2011: Toyota Etios & Honda Twister Wins Car & Bike of The Year Awards

- Toyota Etios wins Car of the Year Award
- Honda Twister wins Bike of the Year Award

Establishing India's most comprehensive and authoritative awards in the automotive sector, CNBC-TV18, India's No. 1 business medium in association with ICICI Bank Car Loans, India's most preferred financier of car loans and Overdrive, India's No. 1 Car and Bike Magazine honoured India's Finest Automobile Champions at the eleventh edition of the CNBC-TV18 Overdrive Awards 2011. 'Toyota Etios' & 'Honda Twister' won the Car and Bike of the Year Award at the awards ceremony held recently in the city. The awards aimed at the road ahead for the auto industry with increasing need for green technology and environment conservation.

With sustainability and environment conservation being the need of the hour, automobile manufacturers are under constant pressure to reduce the carbon footprint of their vehicles. CNBC-TV18 Overdrive Awards 2011 reiterated this need for green technology by bringing together all the industry stakeholders on a single platform and highlighting the road ahead for the Indian automobile sector.

The awards witnessed the presence of personalities such as Rajeev Bajaj, President, Bajaj Automobiles; R. C. Bhargava, Chairman, MSIL; Hiroshi Nakagawa, MD, TKM; Capt. Gopinath, Founder, Deccan 360; Dia Mirza and Dino Morea from the Bollywood fraternity, Kiran Bedi, Indian social activist and a retired Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, Dinesh Kumar, the spectacular sporting star who brought glory to India at CWG and again at the Asian Games and the renowned ad man, Prasoon Joshi.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Anil Uniyal, CEO, CNBC-TV18 and CNBC AWAAZ said, "Over a period of 11 years, CNBC-TV18 Overdrive Awards has established a benchmark for automotive excellence within the industry. Each year, with the introduction of new award categories, the CNBC-TV18 Overdrive Awards seek to honour those conglomerates which have set an example in automotive engineering by striking a balance between customer satisfaction and environment conservation.

Additionally, year on year, we have also awarded a special salutation to either an individual or an organization for their outstanding contribution to the country thereby felicitating their exemplary services. We hope that, through the medium of CNBC-TV18 Overdrive Awards, the winners as well as the nominees continue to set an example of technological advancement not only in India but globally. These awards are core to the DNA of CNBC-TV18 which has always saluted the excellence in business and leadership by honouring those who have taken India global."

Adding further, Rajiv Sabharwal, Executive Director, ICICI Bank Ltd., said, "It's our pleasure at ICICI bank to be a partner in the Overdrive Awards. We've worked with CNBC-TV118 over the last five years to bring these awards, and with each passing year, we've felt even more proud of this association. I think what is special this year, is that we've also added the initiative, and have got Go green as sponsors for this event."

He added, "India is experiencing growth across sectors. The 30% growth that we are seeing in the auto sector, the 32% growth we are seeing in the commercial vehicle space, or the 17-18% we are seeing in the two-wheeler space, is all contributed by the strong growth in the per capita income. If we factor in what is happening today, we believe that it is very much possible for this growth to grow from 1000$ to 2000$ industry."

"As far as ICICI bank is concerned, we've been strong contributors to the growth of the consumers, by lending to individuals. Over the last decade or so, we've lent for over 2.2million cars, and sanctioned almost around 75,000Crores in the auto industry. We believe that all this has been a small contributor to the robust growth that we are now seeing today including the fact that the rural and semi-urban sectors are contributing more today than it has done in the past."

"At ICICI Bank, we are very keen to support technology that is more fuel efficient, we've been partners with people who have developed vehicles that are more fuel efficient and we are happy to work with them, so we can create financing options which are more feasible for all of us. We at ICICI bank would be happy to partner with you to make sure that we make this opportunity an even larger one."

More so, Sirish Chandran, Editor, Overdrive said, "OVERDRIVE has represented the forefront of Indian automotive passion, adventure on wheels and the most definitive automotive testing and comparison tests. Our commitment to our role as the flag bearer for automotive publishing and content in the Indian market remains steadfast and as we complete 13 years in the business we renew our pledge to meet and exceed the expectations of the Indian enthusiast and to be unwaveringly honest in our evaluations of cars and motorcycles for the buyer. OVERDRIVE was the first to institute awards for Indian automotive excellence and today these awards are recognized as the most definitive, credible and coveted awards in the industry."

The winners of the 11th edition of India's Most Authoritative Automobile Awards – 'Overdrive Awards 2011' are stated as below:-

Category	Winner
Compact Car of The Year	Ford Figo
Premium Hatchback of the Year	VW Polo
Mid Size Car of the Year	Toyota Etios
Premium Automobile of the Year	BMW 5 Series
Performance Bike of the Year	Suzuki GSX-R1000
Performance Car of the year	Audi A4 3.0TDI
Import Bike of the Year	Ducati Monster 796
Import Car of the Year	Merc SLS AMG
Import SUV of the Year	Hyundai Santa Fe
Green Award of the Year	Toyota Prius
Engine of the Year	Suzuki K12B
Motorsport Award of the Year	VW Motorsport
Viewer’s Choice Award (2-wheelers)	Yamaha SZ-X
Viewer’s Choice Award (4-wheelers)	Ford Figo
Storyboard Auto Commercial of the Year - Car	Honda Jazz-X-Meridien Communications
Storyboard Auto Commercial of the Year - Bike	Bajaj Discover-Lowe Lintas
Special Commendation	The Mumbai Traffic Police
Hall of Pride	Bajaj Pulsar
Scooter of the year	TVS Wego
SUV/UV Of The Year	Skoda Yeti
Manufacturer of the year	Maruti Suzuki India
Bike of the year	Honda Twister
Car of the year	Toyota Etios

Honda CB Twister: Bike Of The Year 2011

Honda CB Twister becomes the Bike Of The Year 2011 for its stylish look and performance. Honda CB Twister is an affordable bike with 110cc engine makes it perfect. Honda CB Twister is one of the bikes which are environment friendly. Honda CB Twister is designed for customers who seek style and performance, mileage and comfort on a budget.

Honda CB Twister measuring 1972 mm x 742 mm x 1075 mm and weights 108 kg. Honda CB Twister price is around Rs 50000. Honda CB Twister is available in five exciting colors.

Honda CB Twister offers a speedometer and fuel gauge fat. It has low-angle mirrors, functional, and switching equipment that is easy to use, but unfortunately it lacks a pass light flasher. Palm Soft and shapely add controls to feel good factor when you ride this bike. The front cowl, wonderful headlight, side cowl, manly fuel tank, sharp rear having short tail, reflecting tail lamp, muffler and half chain case makes the bike style icon in the segment.

Honda CB Twister is bike with tag "value for money".

Tata Nano Sales Started Across India

Tata Motors today announced open sales of the Tata Nano in all the remaining states of India. The car was thus far freely available in 12 states. Customers across the country, who are desirous of driving home a Tata Nano but had not booked the car during 2009, will now be able to purchase a Tata Nano from the company’s 874 sales outlets in India.

The Tata Nano comes with a 4-year / 60,000-km (whichever is earlier) manufacturer’s warranty, at no extra cost. In addition, customers have the option to avail of a comprehensive maintenance contract at only Rs. 99 per month. This contract will help take care of running maintenance of the car.

Tata Motors Finance (TMF), which provides finance for all Tata Motors vehicles, has launched a special Tata Nano finance scheme, under which a customer can get up to 90% loan with select documents in just 48 hours. Besides, Tata Motors has tied up with 28 banks and NBFCs to offer customers loans for purchasing the Tata Nano at attractive rates of interest.

Customer satisfaction studies with current Tata Nano owners indicate that over 80% are satisfied or very satisfied with the car, because of it being small yet spacious, its performance, maneuverability, durability, mileage and safety. Some owners have taken their Tata Nanos on country-wide trips or to altitudes like Khardungla, the world’s highest motorable road.

Besides its dealership showrooms, the company is setting up Special Nano Access Points for customers in the hinterlands to experience, test-drive or test-ride the car.

About the Tata Nano:

The Tata Nano offers an incredibly spacious passenger compartment which can comfortably seat four adults. With a length of just 3.1 metres, width of 1.5 metres and height of 1.6 metres, the Tata Nano has the smallest exterior footprint for a car in India but is 21% more spacious than the smallest car available today. A high seating position makes ingress and egress easy. Its small size coupled with a turning radius of just 4 metres, makes it extremely manoeuvrable in the smallest of parking slots.

Tata Nano Features of 3 Trim Levels are:

Tata Nano Standard: The standard version, in three colour options, single-tone seats, and fold-down rear seat;

Tata Nano CX: In five colour options, with heating and air-conditioning (HVAC), two-tone seats, parcel shelf, booster-assisted brakes, fold-down rear seat with nap rest;

Tata Nano LX: With the features of CX plus complete fabric seats, central locking, front power windows, body coloured exteriors in three premium colours, fog lamps, electronic trip meter, cup holder in front console, mobile charger point, and rear spoiler. Many of these features are not available on current entry-level small cars in the country.

Tata Nano Performance & Specifications:

Performance: The 2-cylinder 624 cc engine – delivering 35 PS @ 5250 rpm and a torque of 48 Nm @ 3000 rpm – enables the car to have a top speed of 105 kmph and negotiate inclines with a gradeability of 30%.

Fuel efficiency: 23.6 km/litre, certified by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) under mandated test conditions, which is the highest for any petrol car in India.

Emission: The high fuel efficiency, with a low kerb weight of 600 kg, ensures that the Tata Nano – at 101 gm / km – has the lowest CO2 emission among cars in India.

Safety: The Tata Nano’s safety performance exceeds current regulatory requirements – it passes the roll-over test and offset impact, which are not regulated in India. It has an all sheet-metal body, reinforced passenger compartment, crumple zones, intrusion-resistant doors, besides mandatory seat belts and complies fully with existing Indian safety standards. Tubeless tyres – among which the rear ones are wider endowing extra stability – enhance safety.

Tata Nano Warranty: 4 years / 60,000 km whichever is earlier.

Source: Tata Motors