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Chevrolet Spark’s Diwali offer

Spark gets dearer…

GM India today announced a fabulous offer for its hot hatch – Chevrolet Spark. Spark is competing with Maruti Suzuki’s Zen Estilo and Hyundai’s santro. Chevrolet Spark’s base model would now be available for Rs 2.79 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), a discount of Rs 53,000 over the existing price of Rs 3.32 lakh. The good news is General Motors India (GMI) is offering a this discount on all variants of Chevrolet Spark. The discounts will be offered to those who book their car from October 12 through October 22. This offer is valid for all bookings made on those ten days, even if the delivery of the car occurs later. The offer announced today is in addition to attractive financing schemes already being offered by GM India, including a 100 per cent funding and low down payment offer. The Chevrolet Spark also comes with a three-year/100,000-km standard warranty, which is an industry first in the mini-car segment, and a service interval of 5,000 km or six months, whichever comes first. Prices of Spark will be back at the pre-offer levels on October 23. Competitors, however, are not planning to cut prices to match GM’s offer. Hyundai, Maruti Suzuki and Tata Motors have said they have no plans to cut prices. Nearly 10,000 units of the Spark have already been sold in India after its launch in April this year.

General Motors Centennial celebration:

To mark the completion of 100years of car manufacturing General motors, General Motors India
kicked off its own celebration of this historic occasion in Goa. It played host to more than 100 customers who flew in from various parts of the country to participate in a glittering evening event. GM India’s celebration was weaved around the forward-looking and visionary theme of GM Next. The evening was packed with spectacular performances by the finalists of the well-known TV reality music competition Sa Re Ga Ma. Famous Bollywood actress and GM India brand ambassador for the Chevrolet Aveo, Ms. Rani Mukherji, also graced the occasion.

General Motors september sales:

GMI registered a sales growth of 64% last month, when it sold 5,751 units. The Spark was the second largest selling model in its line up with sales of 1,501 units after Tavera. The company sells six models in India.

Hero – Ultra Velociti, Optima & Three wheeler

Hero -Ultra..

Hero Cycles Ltd (HCL) entered into a joint venture with the Ultra Motor Co (UMC), a Britain-based electric vehicle company, to form Hero Ultra Pvt Ltd. The Hero Cycles earlier in Oct 2006 signed a technical collaboration-cum-joint marketing agreement with the UMC to produce and jointly market a range of electric-powered two-wheelers in the country. The joint venture company, Hero Ultra Pvt Ltd., will most likely come into effect from January 2008, and would launch around three e-scooters within the coming six months. Hero -Ultra’s offerings are likely to be high-powered scooters, capable of a maximum speed of 100 kmph, up from the current maximum of 70 kmph.

To mark this occasion, Hero launched two new electric-powered two-wheelers named ‘Velociti’ and ‘Optima’, which are priced Rs.34,000 and Rs.29,000, respectively. The new company will continue to produce and market the range of seven electric-powered two-wheelers priced between Rs.14,000 and Rs.27,000 that have been launched in March this year. The company is planning to open 150 outlets across the country by the end of this fiscal. It is also planning to showcase its products in Reliance Retail’s supermarkets.

Velociti and Optima..

Velociti is based on the patented ‘impulse inertia technology’ that gives it a higher speed of 40 km per hour and a better torque to help scale gradients. It comes with a powerful motor of 500 watts that delivers a peak motor output of 1000 watts and a range of 50km per charge, under standard test conditions. Velociti has a powerful 48V/ 24 AH Sealed Lead Acid battery, hydraulic disc brakes in the front and drum brakes in the rear wheel, and is supported by the telescopic suspension system.
Priced at Rs34,000 (ex-showroom Delhi) Velociti will be available across select showrooms in North, West and South India initially. Targeted largely at the 28 year plus, evolved commuter, Velociti will be available in two colour options – silver and burgundy.

Optima is a new addition to the already existing range of seven models of basic electric scooters from Hero Ultra. The largest selling model Maxi, rated as the Best Electric Two Wheeler by Bike India, a leading two-wheeler magazine, contributes to about 80 per cent of the sales for the company. Hence keeping in mind the same performance parameters and to give a new variant to the consumer ‘Optima’ has been launched with new looks and design. The ‘Optima’ delivers a range of 70 km per charge and a maximum speed of 25km per hour.

Three wheeler..

Ultra Motors plans to launch its first hybrid electric three-wheelers in India by early January 2009 . The three wheeler being planned for India by Ultra Motors will be a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), which uses both an electric motor or motors and a petrol or diesel engine to extend the car’s range and often to provide additional power. Toyota’s much popular hybrid car Prius uses battery power up to certain speeds and the gasoline engine for higher speeds, and can draw on both power sources if needed. The batteries are recharged by the fuel engine, which acts as a generator, and in most models by the energy generated from braking. The CNG and Diesel prototype is already ready and India will be the first country, where Ultra Motors will introduce the model.

Diwali and Dussera Dhamaka from auto majors

As the festive fever gripples auto majors are rolling out new models and upgraded models. Hyundai’s getz prime diesel Honda’s new city, skoda superb and Ford Fiesta Fida edition and Tata safari Dicor are the few upgrades. Bajaj’s XCD and TVS 7 proposed launches are the new models from two wheeler majors. Others are planning to roll out existing product upgrades as well new models for the coming season. This is not the only way to entertain customers, here are more – cash discounts, free insurance for limited periods, accessories, discounting on car loans and cash for old cars. Yes, from Toyota to Maruti started special schemes to tap the festive demand. Let’s enjoy the offers.

Touch Toyota & feel japan..

Toyota’s way to celebrate Diwali, Ramzan and Dussera as well as its 10th anniversary. 5 lucky couples have a chance to win a trip to japan for a week on picking Innova or Corolla. You also have a chance to get 20 digicams and 30 ipods under this special offer. To win these you have to be lucky, for others there is definite discount packages. The corolla sedan is offered discounts upto Rs40000 and a cash discount of Rs25000 and 4% loan payout. Toyota offers special accesories for its Innova MUV – front,side and rear skirts.

Maruti Suzuki..

Maruti already launched two missions – Lalkaar (or Challenge) and Hum Saath Saath Hain (We are in it together). In Lalkaar, each employee, each factory worker of Maruti Suzuki would become a salesman of the company and reach out to his friends, acquaintances and relatives and convince them to buy a car now, without waiting for any interest rate reduction. “Hum Saath Saath Hain” – a scheme for Maruti Suzuki’s component suppliers. Maruti offers to make cars available for sale to employees of its suppliers at attractive finance terms – low interest rate, long repayment tenor and high finance percentage. The loan was secured through a fidelity insurance, the cost of which was very nominal.

For the general customers, Maruti Suzuki’s offers a rebate of Rs45000 for its hot hatch Zen Estilo. Maruti Suzuki’s best selling models – WagonR carries a discount of Rs 40,000 and the Alto Rs 34,000 while the old war horse Maruti 800 is off by Rs 25,000. Maruti’s mid-size sedan Esteem offers an impressive discount of Rs 56,000. Many of these schemes are already on and will continue though the festive period.

Fiat & Tata Motors..

Tata Motors plans to offer more cash discounts for the coming season to counter a four-month sales slump. It is offering Rs 61,000 off on its Indigo Marina, Rs 45,000 on Indica Xeta petrol and Rs 40,000 off on the Indigo diesel range. Fiat Palio Stile hatchback is off by a handsome Rs 38,000.

Ford India..

The limited edition Fiesta 1.6 litre Fida is a good package from Ford india specially for this Diwali. Other models such as Fusion, Endeavour and Ikon which have been recently re-launched will soon have price discounts and free accessory offers.

Hyundai India..

Hyundai’s is offering an impressive discount of Rs 25000 for its flagship model Santro. For the Accent sedan Hyundai offers a special price of Rs 4.99 lakh for a select few days. Hyundai is giving out a Rs 10,000 exchange bonus scheme on its Verna and Getz Prime models. For the 1.3L Hyundai Getz discounts upto Rs35000 and an exchange bonus of Rs20000 is offered. Additionally you can save upto 4% of the loan you made.

Hyundai’s car care clinic

Hyundai Motor India, the country’s second largest automobile manufacturer and leading passenger car exporter launched its third nationwide Free Car Care Clinic, in an effort to extend the advantage of its excellent services and free check-up to a larger number of its customers. The Free Car Care Clinic was successfully introduced in 2006, the Free Car Care Clinic 2007 will be a two-week long campaign, running from October 3rd to October 17th 2007 at over 320 Hyundai dealer workshops across the country. The Free Car Care Clinic will offer a comprehensive 80 point check-up and a thorough examination of the engine, transmission, electricals, under-body, AC, body etc. Hyundai customers can avail this Free Check-up at any of its 320 dealer workshops across the country. Customers can also avail of free car wash and attractive discounts on all spare parts. Twenty percent discounts will also be given on labour and a special discount on the emblem. For the first time, customers can also avail 20% discount on extended warranty. Special discounts are offered on service merchandising like engine flush, anti-rust coating, engine de-carbonisation and car polish. ‘Best Maintained Car’ award will be given to honour and recognise the customers who have taken special care in maintaining the car, which are over 5 years old and have been driven 100,000 kms. Attractive regional awards are also up for grabs for the customers. Additional attractions like Twenty-Twenty discount offer to customers with car mileage more than 100,000 kms have also been introduced for the first time. During the campaign, Hyundai customers will also have the option to test drive any car from the Hyundai stable. The campaign also gives opportunity to win attractive prizes through a lucky draw.

Mahindra – Renault..

For the recently launched Logan sedan Mahindra- Renault is offering a rebate of Rs 40,000.

Bajaj auto, TVS and Hero Honda..

Hero Honda, Bajaj Auto and TVS Motors are lining up their special packages to come out of the degrowth phase of the past few months. All these companies will soon launch low interest rate schemes in association with the banks besides festive offers. Market leader Hero Honda is offering freebies with every purchase while Bajaj Auto is finalising price cuts on its bike range to drive maximum mileage from the festival rush

Bankers ease ur shopping!

State Bank of India plans to reduce interest rates by 50 basis points till November. SBI chief general manager Sangeet Shukla said, “We are giving this discount till November 29. As higher auto loan rates have hit sales, a 50 bsp cut will allow us to offer finance packages at a highly competitive rate of 12% on all fresh cases”. ICICI Bank has introduced floating interest rate options for cars and commercial vehicles and will introduce some interest discounting for the two wheeler sector.
HDFC also plans similar offers for the Diwali.

These are offers from the manufacturers, demand your dealers for more. Happy shopping!

We will try to keep update on such offers also you readers try to post information on such offers which will help other.

Source:economictimes

update 1: SBI and ICICI slash interest rates

State Bank of India and ICICI Bank—have lowered interest rates on various loans. SBI’s proposed rates fall under a festival offer applicable to all new loans sanctioned on or after october 8th and are valid till December end. The special offer comes ahead of Dussehra and Diwali, festivals that see a surge in home and automobile purchases. As part of the festival offer, SBI has reduced interest rates on car and two-wheeler loans. SBI’s new car and two-wheeler rates have been slashed by 1%, depending on the loan’s amount and maturity. Car loans are now available at 11-12%, depending on the amount, maturity and type of loans. For small road transport operators, SBI has reduced interest rates between 1-2% on existing rates. The applicable rates will now be between 10% and 12.25% for various loan maturities. The festival offer also covers farm mechanisation loans (tractors, power tillers, combine harvesters etc) after a 1-2% interest rate cut with immediate effect. ICICI has also cut rates marginally by 25-50 basis points on car and personal loans, as part of its festive offer

update 2: Trend Reversal

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd, the top utility vehicle maker, has raised prices of premium variants of its best-selling Scorpio sport utility by 7,500 rupees from Oct. 1. Tata Motors Ltd has raised prices on its entire range of commercial vehicles by 2.0-2.5 percent to partially offset higher input costs and because of costs related to meeting stricter safety norms. Ashok Leyland Ltd, the No. 2 truck maker, will soon raise prices across its entire range by about 1.5-2.0 percent.

update 3: Tata’s challenging offer

If you already own a Tata car, you can avail additional discounts of worth Rs10000 for indica xeta and Fiat’s palio stile. For the IndigoXL, Indigo marina and Indigo you can avail Rs15000. In addition to the above offers Tata challenges the customer through an innovative offer “take a test drive of indigoXL and if buy Ford Fiesta and Hyundai Verna within thirty days of test drive, you will rewarded with a check of worth Rs2000 on showing the RC book”.

update 4: Bajaj and Hero Honda discounts

Bajaj Auto Ltd (BAL) today reduced the price of its 100 cc bike Platina by Rs 4,000 to push sales during the upcoming festival season. Platina would now be available for Rs 29,990 (ex-showroom) as against the existing Rs 33,990. Hero Honda has also announced a discount of Rs 2,020 on its entry-level bike CD Deluxe to celeberate sales of 20 million units in India.

update 5: Maruti alto festival offer as per advertisement

* Rs10000 of exchange bonus

* 1 year insurance for just Re 1 and a gold coin worth of Rs2000

* a special step up EMI – Rs3,246 and this offers are valid until 31st october 2007

update 6: Maruti wagonR festival offer as per advertisement

* Rs15000 of exchange bonus

* 1 year insurance for just Re 1 and a gold coin worth of Rs2000

* a special step up EMI – Rs3,246 and this offers are valid until 31st october 2007

update 7: HeroHonda Splendor NXG

According to the recent advertisement, Hero Honda’s splendor NXG is now available at Rs38,550. Before the price cut Splendor NXG is available at Rs. 40,990(cast) and Rs. 41,990(alloy). All the price indicated here are ex showroom Delhi.

discuss more about these in Vicky.in Forums

Hot News – October 2007

* ABS is soon to become mandatory for all vehicles in India soon. Installing ABS could become mandatory in the next few months since discussions between vehicle manufacturers, government and other stakeholders are already in an advanced stage. As part of the Natrip(National Automotive Testing and R&D Infrastructure Project) an ABS brake test pad is also coming up at the Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (VRDE), Ahmednagar, near Pune. This facility is expected to be operational by 2009.Currently seatbelts are mandatory for Indian cars.

* Indian Government is all set to make tough crash standards for Indian cars. Currently, the steering-impact test and the seat-belt anchorage test are mandatory. But as these are far lighter than the international norm where cars have to undergo frontal, frontal-off set and side-on impact crash safety tests before being launched. Hence the government is aligning itself with the standards of Economic Commission of Europe to conduct the crash tests. The ministry of road transport and highways has finalised the draft ‘automotive industry standards’ for the new crash tests (frontal crash and frontal off-set and side-on impact crash safety tests), is awaiting adequate testing facilities. The testing facilities are coming up at ARAI in Pune and the different centres of National Automotive Testing & R&D Infrastructure Project. These tough safety norms may come into effect by 2008-end or early 2009, will result in phasing out of popular models such as Maruti 800, Esteem, Versa, Omni, Ford Ikon, Tata Indica and Hindustan Ambassador

* Hindustan is investing over Rs 295 crore for upgrading its Uttarapara plant which makes Ambassador cars. It seems that Hindustan Motors does not want to phase out Ambassador “We want to make the car ready for 2009 safety norms as well as for new emission norms,” said Hindustan Motors. Sales of Ambassador has not seen a dip despite stiff competition, it has in fact seen some marginal increase every year. During 2006, it sold about 14,000 cars and is expected to sell 15,000 units this year. Hence Hindustan Motors is planning to launch new models of the car which can be sold even after 2009.

* Higher-end version of Tata’s 1 lakh car will have Manual transmission, air-conditioning, power windows and power steering.

* UK-based Ultra Motor has signed an exclusive agreement with Reliance Retail for distribution of its light electric vehicle (LEV) through the latter’s outlets in the country. Ultra Motors is jointly rolling out electric bikes and scooters in india with the Hero group. Ultra Motor, in collaboration with Hero Cycles, is also looking to set up after-sales services and marketing centres.

* Tata Motors plans to re-enter the UK market with the next generation models(indica v3, new safari,new sumo and next generation indigo) in 2008. Tata earlier sold its flagship compact car Indica under the ‘Rover City’ badge until 2005.The Indica, known to Europeans as City Rover, was rolled out in November 2003 but did not succeed in the market.City Rover was launched in a price band of 6,500-8,500 pounds.Unlike 2003 this time Tata will sell the indica’s on its own.

* Besides chasing Jaguar and Land Rover, Tata Motors is in discussions about opening an automotive research and development centre which would create more than 1,000 jobs in UK. Tata Motors is talking to Advantage West Midlands, the regional development agency which owns the former Marconi site at Ansty.

* Hyundai India has decided to phase out its elantra sedan on account of dipping sales. Hyundai also mulls to replace the Tucson SUV with the santa fe. Sales of the Elantra have dipped substantially over the last two years and Hyundai sold only 2 units of the vehicle in August.Elantra is currently available in India in two variants — 1.8 litre DOHC petrol engine and a 2 litre CRDI diesel engine at prices ranging between Rs 7.26 and Rs 9.82 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).Tucson’s has been a similar story and the car has not been able to match up to rivals like Honda CR-V and Ford Endeavour. Hyundai has sold just 123 units of Tucson in this fiscal so far, as against 197 units last year.

* Hyundai has finally made a fullstop to the rumours on santro diesel. “We have no plans of a diesel version of the Santro” HMIL managing director H S Lheem said. Non-availability of a 1.1 litre diesel engine is said to be the prime reason for shelving the plans of a diesel Santro by the manufacturer. But as expected, after tasting the sucess of CNG Santro Hyundai plans LPG variant of santro. The LPG Santro is expected to be out by the first half of 2008.Similar to Wagon R Duo, Santro may also sport a similar 32 litre LPG toroidal.

* Renault plans to start assembling its low-cost sedan Logan in South Africa in early 2008. Renault will source components from Indian manufacturers currently supplying to the company’s joint venture Mahindra Renault Ltd in India that produces the car in India. Indian auto component makers have become key suppliers to global companies leveraging their high quality and low costs. Exports of auto components from India increased 33% to $2.8 billion (Rs12,880 crore then) in 2006-07 from $2.1 billion a year ago, according to the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (Acma). The Logan will likely be assembled at Nissan’s plant in Rosslyn near Pretoria in South Africa and the first car will roll out of this plant in 2008.

* Renault and Nissan also announced plans on Thursday to open a new business centre or back office in Chennai that will employ more than 1,500 workers by 2010 and support the two companies’ global engineering, purchasing, design, cost management and information systems operations. Renault has opened a design centre in India in June 2007 as it seeks a bigger presence in emerging markets. Renault Design India will help design vehicles for the fast-growing local market as well other regional markets, from the initial project design to the final mock-up of a vehicle.The indian design centre has already worked on a couple of concept car designs and is researching the use of premium fabrics in India. It will also design and develop a range of automobile accessories. The Mumbai centre for Renault will be its fourth such facility globally. Apart from South Korea, France and Spain.

* Liquor baron Vijay Mallya has completed the 90 million euro deal to acquire 50 per cent stake in Spyker-Ferrari Formula One, thereby making him the co-owner of the team.

* Ford ruled out mazda for Indian market and said it has no plans to bring the Focus sedan to India in the near future. Ford India is considering a powertrain facility in India as opposed to import. Currently Ford imports engines from Thailand and Europe.

* Global market insight and information group TNS has found out that the best way to boost car sales is to bombard advertisements on the television.This was followed by newspaper advertisements, opinion or influence of family members, friends and colleagues, test drive and seeing product on road.Interestingly, the study found that in North India celebrity endorsements seemed to have a high influence on purchase decisions, while in the eastern region it was cricket sponsorships, kiosks and stand-up displays. Customers from southern part of the country were more influenced by magazine and web advertising,

Preview on new Tata safari 2.2L Dicor

Tata in turbo mode….

Tata will kickstart its assault against the slumping sales and its rivals with the new safari 2.2L DICOR. Tata along with its partner Fiat is planning 8 new models(not facelifted) within next one year. Safari 2.2L DICOR will be the first one to roll out from Tata’s arsenal. 2.2L , twin-cam 16-valve diesel engine which has already been launched in the export market and makes its India debut with the new Safari. Thogh the existing safari is spacious and priced competetively its lethargic and thirsty 3.0L engine, vague gearshift,use of cheap plastics and poor build quality hamper its sales. Also the presence of frugal tavera, stylish scorpio and much superior Toyota Innova makes the safari’s ride hard. Tata hopes to counter all these critiques by using much superior 2.2L engine. New 2.2L DICOR safari will also feature upmarket interiors with the use of improived plastics and seat fabrics. On the exterior changes will be made in front grille and bumper for the new safari.

responsive heart for the new safari:

3.0L engine which powers the current safari is being criticised for its narrow powerband (maximum power of 115bhp is generated at 3000rpm and turbo kicks in only at 2000rpm) which converts the driver has to change gears constantly in this 2000-3000rpm to keep the motor alive. This flip is worsened by the vague gearbox which refuses to shift into first and stubborn hydraulic clutch. The end result is the poor fuel efficiency(in the range of 8-10kmpl).

What the safari despartely needs is a more responsive and a more frugal powertrain. Tata will strap this new 2 .2L Dicor engine under the hood of the safari. Tata’s new 2.2L , 16 valve, VTT DICOR engine develops maximum power of 140hp at 4000rpm and healthy torque of 320Nm in the range of 1700 -2700 rpm. If these figures are reflected on the road, the new safari will give its rivals an axe. Tata has also refined the gearbox for the engine to be more responsive.

few cosmetic upgrades..

Though the new 2.2L safari has the same visual appeal, it has some significant changes.

*The new 2.2L safari is shortened by to 4650mm from 4810mm but thankfully cabin space has been retained. Safari is now equipped with reverse guide system to come over the rear visibility problem which is usually associated with large SUVs.

*New 2.2L safari features chevrolet type split grille and prominent Tata badge sits on that.

* new body coloured bumper for the 2.2L safari

* stylish hard new cover for the spare tyre and in the rear spoiler with integrated warning lamp in the new safari.

* Kerb weight in both the 2WD and 4WD is reduced. New 2.2L safari weighs 50 -75kg lesser than the 3.0L one.

*Tata safari’s ride has never been criticized but Tata has tweaked the suspension to faclitate better handling. Tata has also fitted the new safari with tubeless tyres.

* 2007 new safari also gets stylish new day and night instrument panel,wood finish center console, leather seats, two tone beige interiors and express-down power windows

*leather wrapped steering wheel and leather cladded gear knob for the higher variant of new safari.

*elegant scuff plates on all doors of the new safari

* new follow-me-home headlamps, which stay on for a bit(30seconds) after you’ve switched off the your safari. Helpful while remote locking.

* The new Safari Dicor sports a convenient feature for locating your car at night in parking lots. The remote unlocking operation brings on the roof light, which stays on for 5 seconds before fading out.

* The new safari gets two new colours: Cycus grey and Mountain green.

* The new Safari range comes with an improved warrenty of 2 years or 75,000 kms
price and the colours:

Though the engine size is reduced the new 2.2L safari is expected to be priced around 10lakhs. 2.2L safari Dicor will be available in nine exciting colours. Unless you are highly craze about Toyota’s build quality, here’s an SUV you have to take a test drive.

update: The new Safari is available in 3 engine options – 90ps Turbo Charged Inter-cooled (TCIC) Diesel, 140ps 2.2 Variable Turbine Technology (VTT) Diesel, and 127 PS, Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPFI) Petrol. The entry-level of 2.2 VTT offering is available at a price point of Rs 6.4 lakh and the high end version of the same model is available at Rs 7.33 lakh (both are ex-showroom Delhi). The top end version of the new spanking Safari has ABS, dual Airbags, reverse guide system and DVD/MP3 system with dual LCD screens as standard fitment. The new safari also meets crash safety norms of Europe.

official prices of the new safari:

Models	4 x 2	4 x 4
Safari LX	Rs. 646937	N.A.
Safari DICOR 2.2 LX	Rs. 733000	N.A.
Safari DICOR 2.2 EX	Rs. 861883	Rs. 951115
Safari DICOR 2.2 VX	Rs. 1038540	Rs. 1131976
Safari EXi Petrol	Rs. 861877	Rs. 951109

For more visit www.safaridicor.com

Hot Photos – October 2007

1) Hyundai santa Fe will replace the ageing Tucson soon in India. Hyundai has been witnessing poor sales in the SUV segment due to the advent of Ford Endeavour CRDi and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara. As Chevrolet Captiva, Volkswagen Tiguan and Mitsubishi Outlander on the cards, Hyundai has to bring this 2nd generation santa fe to sustain in this segment.

2) Power options for the santa fe includes an 2.2L diesel model that delivers 153ps @ 4000rpm and 35kgm of torque @ 2000rpm with the help of a Variable Geometry Turbocharger. Hyundai may consider a petrol option as well. In the design front though the santa fe is not pathbreaking it is very practical. Hyundai santa fe is expected in mid 2008 and to be priced similar to the tucson.

3) Volkswagen Tiguan which is unveiled(officially) in recent Frankfurt motor show has a place in Volkswagen Indian line-up. Tiguan the softroader will be take on the mighty Honda CR-V in India. Tiguan is built on a new platform and Volkswagen will be offering the Tiguan with a choice of five turbocharged engines. Three TSI and two TDI engines meeting the tough euro IV norms. (which engines are coming to india are not known)

4) Volkwagen tiguan is similar in dimension to CR-V but presents a self-confident design. Actually, Tiguan is a crossover of a coupe and SUV and it is a strict five-seater. Tiguan which garnered attention throughout the world has all the necessary things to be best seller. If Volkswagen price the tiguan sensitively, it will turbo the Volkswagen’s indian safari.

5) Chevrolet epica/tosca will fill the General Motors India product line-up once launched. Unlike other manufacturers General Motors realised the potential of India and acted accordingly. The new epica will positioned in the D Segement – Nissan teana, Toyota camry, Honda Accord, Skoda superb and Volkswagen passat. Epica is powered by a frugal diesel engine (maximum torque: 310 Nm at 2,000 rpm) which is mated with a manual five-speed gearbox. A 2.0L or 2.5L gasoline engine may also power the Indian epica.

6) Chevrolet epica has a generous cabin space (length/width/height: 4,805 / 1,810 / 1,450 mm, wheelbase: 2,700 mm) and a decent boot space. Styling is of typical chevrolet kind – prominent crossbar mounted chevrolet bowtie in the chrome grille, wraparound headlamps and raising waistline. In the rear a long chrome strip connects the distinct tail lamps. Chevrolet may find itself up against some very talented rivals but GM india will price accordingly to turn customer in its favour as it done in the past.

7) Maruti Suzuki’s Jimny may replace its ageing gypsy, the new entry level Jimny SUV may have a dual variant of both 1.3 litre petrol and diesel powertrain with more upmarket and practical features than the Gypsy. For the diesel option, Maruti may strap the 1.3L multijet diesel(found in swift DDIS) into the Jimny. Jimny is likely to be sold with 1.3 litre petrol engine that produces 85 bhp of power. As the jimny falls below four meters and it features 1.3L engine it qualifies for the small car defined by the Union Budget.

7) Maruti Suzuki Jimny will take on the Mahindra Bolero and Tata sumo.

8) After less than a month after the IAA in Frankfurt and the unveiling of the Suzuki Kizashi, Suzuki announces that the concept has a brother – the Suzuki Kizashi 2 concept. The Suzuki Kizashi 2 concept is powered by a 3.6 liter V6 engine and a 6 speed automatic transmission.

9) The next generation 2008 skoda superb spy pictures are out. Skoda will exhibit this new superb in 2008 Geneva motor show and will introduce in india after that. 2008 skoda superb is built on a new platform. The new model is slightly longer than the outgoing version. 2008 skoda superb also gets a new hatchback style rear door but maintains conventional sedan styling for its profile.

Pictorial Preview of Royal Enfield Thunderbird Twinspark

For the latest report visit http://www.vicky.in/blog/royal-enfield-thunderbird-gets-twinspark/

To read the test drive report report or review on new Thunderbird Twinspark visit

http://www.vicky.in/blog/thunderbird-twinspark-pictorial-review/

1) Bullet’s new avatar will be out soon! Yes, Royal Enfield’s first engine with integrated gearbox is ready. In Indian context the 350cc Thunderbird will be fitted with this UCE (Unit Constructed Engine) or Integrated engine. But no Fuel Injection(FI) for Indian market atleast for now. Royal Enfield makes use of twin spark in the new engine to achieve better fuel efficiency but the company claims the usage and application of the technology is entirely different from TVS and Bajaj. Royal Enfield also says Thunderbird Twinspark’s new engine will be trouble free, it will also inherit the original Royal Enfield engine architecture. Here’s the Royal Enfield Thunderbird Twinspark advertisement

2) Royal Enfield’s Thunderbird Twinspark UCE would have lesser friction and wear-and-tear in mechanical parts of the engine, thus the Bullet’s new engine will have superior performance. The integrated engine or unit construction engine(UCE) is also expected to slightly reduce the metal cost for Royal Enfield.

3) Currently, Thunderbird model is powered by a lean-burn engine. TBTS (Thunderbird Twin Spark) model will launched soon. Royal Enfield may phase out the existing Thunderbird LB or keep it, company’s decision will be based on the customer response.

4) Royal Enfield is also working on a integrated engine with Fuel Injection technology for the export market. Royal Enfield is also working on a new design with the help of an independent design studio in UK. Probably next year, Indian market will also receive newly styled products from Royal Enfield.

5) Royal Enfield has invested around Rs50 crore for the new engines and designs. Royal Enfield hopes to lure new customers apart from the loyal Royal Enfield customers with the new products.

Kinetic Sym Flyte – Pictorial Review

1) Kinetic Sym flyte 125cc :Those who wish to enjoy the performance of the eterno and mileage of Scooty pep plus suddenly has two choices in their hand- suzuki access and kinetic sym flyte will fit the demand. Kinetic Flyte is the result of kinetic’s joint venture with Taiwan-based Sang Yang Motors (SYM).

2) Kinetic Sym flyte 125cc the styling is conservative resembling the scooty pep(infact nowadays it has become the standard for all scooters) . Flyte features steeply raked aprons with elliptical indicators. The impact body coloured rear view mirrors is functional as well as stylish.

3) Kinetic Sym flyte 125cc it is compact,neatly proportioned and offers generous space. Kinetic imports around 15% of spare parts to keep the Sym quality. Panel gaps are minimal and flyte make use of high quality plastic. The only short-come is the painting and graphics fails to charm.

4) Kinetic Sym flyte 125cc Better support is offered the riders thru upright seating position, wider seats and flat footboard. These comfort level is not for tall riders. Thumbnail shows SYM is embedded in the grab rail.

5) Kinetic Sym flyte 125cc is powered by an 8bhp motor which produces 9.1Nm at 5500rpm slightly lesser than the suzuki’s 125cc scooter access. Since air filter is superficially located it makes it easy for servicing. The dash choke is also an another useful feature. The engine employs secondary air injection to cut emission. Kinetic Sym flyte makes use of CVT(continuously variable transmission) and a powerful 9Ah which assures easy starting. Flyte’s top speed is claimed to be 80kmph

6) Kinetic Sym flyte 125cc makes use of contemporary telescopic forks at the front which the company claims the imported bike type suspension. At the fore and aft 130mm drum brakes(no disc). Sym flyte features 3.50″ -10″ wider tyres which offers better grip and stability which is supported by a larger 1260mm wheelbase.

7) Kinetic Sym flyte 125cc instrumentation is simple with speedo meter and fuel gauge. Headlamps and tail lamps are large, powerful and attractive.

8) Kinetic Sym flyte 125cc: similar to the Bajaj kristal, kinetic sym flyte features front fueling sytem. Poping out fuel tank lid, 22 litre 2 level underseat double cab storage(spacious even after accommodating the helmet) which is LED illuminated. Mobile charging point, smart bag hook and a smart storage section are quite useful for commuting. 4- in -1 locking system – under-seat storage lock, fuel filler lock, ignition lock and an innovative magnetic lock. The magnetic key system behind the key shutter the whole lock system. Footboard is offered with integrated mat.

P.S: Our sincere thanks to eswari motors ,adayar, Chennai (9840226147)

Bajaj 125cc XCD DTS-Si Pictorial Review

1) Bajaj 125cc XCD DTS-SI the much touted Bajaj’s weapon to scuttle 100cc bikes is ready to serve the customers. Bajaj claims the new XCD DTS-SI will deliver the fuel efficiency of a 100cc bike while the performance will be on par with a 150cc one. Bajaj has incorporated some of features found in the 150cc bike in this new XCD 125cc.

2) Bajaj 125cc XCD DTS-SI shares the typical Bajaj’s front forward design. Sleek graphics and stylish decals nicely gels with the body panels. The tank is neither big nor small has no special knee recess but bounded by stylish scoops on both sides. But unlike the front and side look, the rear doesn’t have the wow factor.

3) Bajaj 125cc XCD DTS-SI engine produces 9.53PS @7000rpm and 10.85Nm@5000rpm. DTS-SI engine is mated with all down 4speed gearbox.Thumbnail shows the DTS-SI engine. Bajaj has rubberised brake pedal and gear-shifters for cushioning.

4) Bajaj 125cc XCD DTS-SI has embedded some innovative features apart from the DTS-SI engine. LED tail lamp, flexible number plate mechanism, digital console and prismatic pilot lamps. Also has Bajaj’s useful features the SNS suspension, ride control switch and electric start(self- start).

5) Bajaj 125cc XCD DTS-SI features handlebar weights to arrest vibrations and digital console which shows speed(thru a cable free speedometer),odometer, low battery warning and fuel level makes the dash to look simple. Absence of tachometer is clearly evident and XCD carries the Bajaj’s poor horn knob.

6) Bajaj 125cc XCD DTS-SI over the period Bajaj has really excelled in not just styling but also in fit and finish. The panels evolving near the engine look like that is sculpted. The zoomed XCD and DTS-SI lettering is more attractive.

7) Bajaj 125cc XCD DTS-SI: XCD is build on a rectangular frame to give more stability which is supplemented by rectangular swingarm section. The wider seats and high handlebar position tells XCD meant for commuting. The upright seating position is the result. SNS suspension will help absorb the shocks. The inner spring is now offered in body colour.

8) Bajaj 125cc XCD DTS-SI prismatic pilot lamps and the wide visor are styling elements, low head lamp position is a genuine practical feature. Attractive saree guard has a storage bay. In the rear slim grab rail fails to inspire confidence mainly while trying main stand.

9) Bajaj 125cc XCD DTS-SI in black colour with orange decals. XCD is priced Rs41000(ex-showroom)

P.S: Our sincere thanks to JAI Bajaj, Adyar, Chennai-20 (044-24422372)

Hyundai’s Getz prime diesel

Hyundai Motor India Ltd, on Thursday announced the launch of the diesel variant of Getz Prime. Hyunda has strapped its Verna engine into the getz prime. Getz Prime Diesel is fitted with a 1.5 litre common rail direct injection (CRDi) engine that will deliver 110 BHP of power at 4000 rpm and an impressive torque of 235Nm in the range of 1900 – 2750 rpm. Hyundai import these CRDi engines from South Korea and is said to be finest. Getz diesel engine is mated to an efficient 5-speed manual transmission.Hyundai has modified the turbo for better low-end response to make the getz prime diesel a city car. As expected Getz diesel is powered by a much powerful 1.5L diesel engine making an edge over the Maruti Suzuki’s swift ( powered by an 1.3L engine). The Swift’s 1.3L engine is also going to power the next generation indica – Indica V3 and Fiat’s Punto. Hyundai has also introduced beige colour interiors for the new getz prime diesel. The new 1.5-litre Getz prime diesel would qualify for the lower 16% excise duty. The Getz Prime Diesel would be available after the first week of October just at the beginning of the festive season. Hyundai has priced getz prime CRDi Rs 5.69 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). Getz prime diesel is Rs73,000 pricier than the swift diesel VDI model. Hyundai’s getz prime diesel will target not just swift’s lovers but also the waiting fabia customers. Hyundai in April 2007 had launched the new Getz Prime in two variants – a 1.1 litre and a 1.3 litre model.

Hyundai rejigs santro variants..

Hyundai has streamlined its flagship model Santro Xing and rejigged two variants with more features that would make the car costlier by up to Rs 12,400. Hyundai earlier offered its Santro Xing in four different variants, will now make it available only in three variants. Hyundai is introducing power steering in its new Santro Xing GL series, which will be costlier by Rs 12,433 from the earlier XK version priced Rs 3.29 lakh.

Similarly, a new variant Santro Xing GLS will replace the ‘XO’ to be priced at Rs 3.59 lakh, up by Rs 9,200. It will have features such as front power windows, internally adjustable side view mirrors and body coloured bumpers. The price for Santro Xing’s non-AC base mode, however, has been left untouched and would continue to be available for Rs 2.70 lakh.