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Monday, April 30, 2012

Hyundai i20 Upgraded Version Launched in India

Hyundai i20 new avatar made its way to the Indian market. The car was launched in Mangalore as the new Hyundai iGen i20. The new i20 boasts of some gen next stylish and the Fluidic design as the last generation car was running out of steam. The new Hyundai i20 price starts at Rs 4.80 lakh and goes up to Rs 7.78 lakh for the top automatic gear model. Looks like the iGen i20 will look to re cement its position in the Indian market.

The iGen i20 was launched in Mangalore at the Advaith Hyundai Showroom. The occasion also saw the new i20 keys handed over to its first customers. The new i20 also ensures that it has upgraded in terms of the safety, comfort and host of other features.

The new i20 comes in both petrol and diesel fuel options. The 1.2 L petrol engine comes with a peak power of 84 PS while the diesel comes with 90 PS power. The new Hyundai i20 includes some eye catch features like electrochromic rear view mirror that illuminates during night driving adding to the safety and the style statement. It also comes with all disk brakes and rain sensing wipers besides land change indicator, start stop button and the list just goes on. The looks of the car are filled with the fluidic lines all over the body which gives a motion feel even when it’s at a standstill.

The safety features of the i-Gen i20 include 6 air bags, clutch lock system, smart pedal system, speed sensing auto door unlocking, reverse parking sensors and so on. As per ARAI data, the i20 gives a mileage of 18.5 kilometer per litre, while the automatic model gives a mileage of 15 kilometer per litre. The car is available in 6 colours. Looks like the new i20 has been prepared to take on the competition which includes the likes of Maruti Swift, Ford Figo and Chevrolet Beat.

Friday, April 27, 2012

Renault Pulse Reviewed For You

Renault Pulse reminds you of lots of other things. Yes, this is the very first feeling you get when you look at the Pulse. The Pulse is for sure a rebadged Nissan Micra and possibly the Indian version of the Renault Clio. However on close inspection you do notice that the Pulse is alive and it has its own tale to tell.

The Pulse in spite of its platform and technology rip off from the Nissan Micra still looks a lot different. However the Pulse has been smart enough to move from the fair looks which had been the downfall of the Nissan Micra to an extent. The Renault Pulse has got some bold lines and curves to appeal to both the sexes. The engine is the same 1.2-litre petrol engine which does duty on the Nissan Micra. Pulse will also feature the 1.5 dCi diesel engine that has proven its worth.

The Renault Pulse specifications come with an overall length, width and height of 3805 mm, 1665 mm and 1525 mm respectively. The wheel base of this vehicle is 2450 mm, which also creates maximum interior space.
The Pulse returns a mileage of 13.8 kmpl in the traffic and 17.3 kmpl on the highway, achieving an overall figure of 14.6 kmpl. At 6.25 lakh the top of the line RxZ is exactly Rs. 4300 cheaper than the Nissan Micra and this is where rebadged cars have an advantage over their elderly cousins.

The Renault Pulse competes with the likes of Maruti Suzuki Swift, Hyundai i20, Skoda Fabia, Fiat Grande Punto, Volkswagen Polo, Chevrolet Beat, Ford Figo and off course the Nissan Micra. The Renault Pulse comes in shades of Champagne Gold, Metallic Grey, Metallic Red, Metallic Silver, Pearl White and Solid Black.

Thursday, April 26, 2012

Audi Q5 New Avatar Launched at Beijing Auto Show

Audi Q5 has joined the band wagon of facelifts since its launch five years ago. The Q5 is the second Audi model in the "Q" range, after the full-size Q7. The Q5 slots above the brand new Q3. The upcoming Audi Q5 comes with an array of plastic surgeries which include front and rear bumpers, sporty lines, new headlights and tail-lamps and a new 6-point front grille. Streamlined, sporty and luxurious - the Q5 is like no other car in its class.

 On the inside, one can see a host of styling changes. The new engines will be filled with vigour and efficiency. The 3.2 Litre petrol V6 is going to be replaced with the 3.0 liter supercharged V6 engine. The comfort is taken care by the twelve-way power front seats with four-way power lumbar adjustment with the ergonomics also being fine-tuned.

Inspired from the MLP (Modular longitudinal Platform) of the Porsche Macan, the Audi Q5 will hit the roads before the Porsche. There is also news of a hybrid variant for the US market, which will be equipped with a 2.0 litre petrol engine and a 1.3 Kwh (54 bhp) electric motor. The start-stop system is standard in all versions.

The Indian audience can lay their hands on the new Audi Q5 soon after it is available for sales globally, probably after the Paris Auto show. The current Audi Q5 has been a huge hit and the facelift looks like it has all the makings of a successful sequel as well in the mid-size SUV segment. The 2013 Audi Q5 is expected to come with prices starting from 39,900 euros, which is just 150 euros more than the outgoing model. Combined fuel economy is estimated at 34 mpg and the hybrid delivers up to 37 mph in all-electric (EV) mode. The Audi Q5 competes with the likes of BMW 5 Series and its own Audi Q7 as well.

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

Skoda Fabia Scout Surprise Launch

Skoda Fabia now gets a new baby brother in the name of the Fabia Scout. The Fabia Scout is based on the Fabia platform and will have larger boot storage when compared to the Fabia hatchback. The new variant comes in both 1.2-litre petrol and diesel engines. The new Scout is distinctive with a protective cladding on the sides and projector beam headlamps. The front bumper now sports a chin spoiler while the rear bumper is accompanied with a diffuser.  On the inside of the new Scout has door-sill trims and a sporty steel pedal set. The Skoda Fabia Scout is in essence a Fabia with raised suspension and plastic cladding all around.

The Skoda Fabia Scout features list includes new stainless steel pedals and high quality leather upholstered seats. The comfort list comes with advanced features like power windows, remote locking, dual airbags for the driver and front passenger, remote locking, audio player, tinted glasses etc.

The driver comfort is maintained with the same ride height as the elder brother Fabia. It also comes with dual airbags, integrated music system, keyless entry and tinted glasses.

The Skoda Fabia Scout price starts at Rs 6.79 lakh ex-Delhi for the petrol version while the diesel variant costs Rs 8.10 lakh ex-Delhi.While this latest Skoda is a decent family choice, it is not much of power horse and doesn’t provide versatility that many buyers desire. The Fabia Scout will remain a front wheel drive car without the option of a four-wheel drive variant. There is not much you will miss if you ignore the Fabia Scout. However, the Scout will offer more space and a larger boot, which is makes worth a shot.

Launched under the price segment of Rs 9 lakh it will compete with the likes of Toyota Innova, Tata Aria and the Mahindra Xylo.

Friday, April 20, 2012

Mercedes Benz G63 AMG Revealed Before Launch


Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG has already been caught by the paparazzi and we bring you the sneak peek details of the Benz G63 AMG ahead of its much hyped launch at the Beijing motor show in China.

The new SUV has no qualms about its style and it bravely flaunts its restyled front bumper with large cooling ducts, a double slat grille, and side mounted exhaust pipes ending just before the rear wheels. The wheels are five spoke AMG alloy and is looked upon as the next successor to the G55 AMG.

At the heart of the matter is the twin-turbocharged 5.5-litre V8 direct injection petrol engine. It develops 536bhp and 77.4kgm of pulling force. Compared to the good old G55 the new car has improved by some 43bhp and 6.08kgm of torque.

With a seven speed automatic gearbox, power is consistently channeled permanently to all four wheels for full control during off-road adventures. The SUV also has a touch of style with an automatic stop/start function. The robust beast also comes with loads of thought behind it with brake energy recuperation for added fuel savings.

The new G63 AMG with a makeover will be joined by a new range topping G-class line-up the G65 AMG model. However one might have to wait sometime though for the new beast to enter India as initially it is planned to be sold in only markets including China, Russia and the Middle East, which is a 603bhp twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre V12 multi-point injection petrol engine with mind boggling 737lb ft of torque.

The feature list of the power machine includes hi-tech Distronic Plus radar controlled cruise control system, Blind Spot Assist and the parking aid Partktronic, which is includes a reversing camera as well. The standard ESP (electronic stability program) also gets a makeover with the inclusion of Trailer Stability Assist and a hill hold function.

Thursday, April 19, 2012

Tata Nano 2012 Sneak Peek Review


Tata Nano has this amazing knack of getting in and out. The Nano in spite of facing a spate of hurdles has come out unscathed with flying colours. On a serious note though the Tata Nano fits in with ease and is arguably the easiest car to park, well almost. However, the steering spoils the show which is too stubborn for a car of its proportions.

You will surely get a nice triceps work out with its tight 8m turning circle. So even though you might find a spot to park the car, you might as well give it a miss due to the pathetic steering. You would probably go for spot that requires less lock to lock maneuvering.

Where the Nano really scores is the busy city streets. For a small car it really gives you loads of confidence. All thanks to its nice and high seating position which makes for great visibility on the road and the short overhangs makes it so easy to figure out the dimensions of the car. So for a novice rider the Nano is an ideal car which requires very limited skill. At the most what worse can happen to an Rs 2-lakh car? On a serious note though, the bumper costs Rs 1,200 and a headlight at 1,300 which means you surely can try a few things about driving if you want it to play it real safe with your first car.

Even after a ride of over 2,000km the car still seems fresh out of the showroom. The car has a smart mix up with the likes of a short wheelbase, fixed rear hatch and beefed-up suspension points help the torsional rigidity of the body shell considerably. Surely, you might want to think twice before calling this a cheap car. The car holds its sanity in spite of the worst of terrains.

The bad roads do highlight poor ride and handling of the Nano, especially the small 12-inch wheels, it bucks a fair bit. Be ready for some tossing and churning as well. In spite of well studded seats for the 2012 model you might feel a bit off too much thigh support at the front seats.The engine has surely come off age with the 2012 model which makes the Nano score.

However do not expect to zip through the traffic light at the first gear itself. The car is still a huge understatement to the word power. On a philosophical note though the Nano teaches you how to perform in spite of all the shortcomings it brings. The Nano still keeps going without too much trouble and you need not worry too much about it. The Nano 2012 high end variant goes up to Rs 2.40 lakh (on-road, Mumbai). You might also have a look at the likes of the Hyundai Eon and the Maruti Alto.

Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Mitsubishi Montero back with a Bang


Mitsubishi Montero has been launched in a new updated avatar. The renewed Montero comes with a host of style statements and extra features. The styling updates include revised exteriors, restyled front, new bumpers and loads of features on the inside. The Mitsubishi Montero comes with a 3.2-litre diesel engine which delivers a maximum power of 200bhp. The 2012 Montero is priced at Rs 40.50 lakh ex-showroom, Delhi.

The interiors have also not been spared of the changes and come with posh leather seats and with new finish on power window-switch panel. The style statement is further added with the new interior illumination colour. The instrument panel also joins the makeover with a new set of dials in a new colour. Apart from its awe inspiring design and the majestic looks, it pampers you and gives you that kingly treatment.

Montero is one of those cars which will make you wonder if you really need one. Just get inside and you'll see where your extra money was spent on. The vehicle is available in solid white, black mica and cool silver metallic shades. The SUV has been equipped with a powerful engine, which delivers commendable top speed. The driving position aboard the Montero also provides the driver excellent visibility of the road ahead and the high seat position makes sure that the driver sees what is immediately in front of the bumper.

The Mitsubishi Montero with a powerful 3.2L 4-Cylinder DOHC inter-cooled turbocharged diesel engine comes with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Being a 4x4, the Montero has the capability of taking on even the roughest of terrains. Standard features include driver and passenger-side airbags, ABS brakes, child safety rear door locks, air conditioning, cruise control, keyless entry, front bucket seats and a rear-window defogger.

The Mitsubishi Montero competes with the likes of Honda CRV, Toyota Fortuner and its own Mitsubishi Pajero. Mitsubishi has also reduced prices of the Cedia saloon which now starts at Rs 7.99 lakh ex-showroom Delhi.

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Maruti Swift Goes Alpha With its Limited Edition


Maruti Swift is now available in a special limited-edition variant of its Swift Petrol called the Swift Alpha. The new limited edition car comes in the VXi petrol variant. With the launch of the new Swift Alpha, Maruti is surely leaving no stone unturned to keep its numero uno status. The new Swift Alpha comes with loads of strings attached to it. The best part is all these improvements comes with absolutely no extra cost.

The new strings include a host of upgrades like Bluetooth-equipped audio system with speakers, door-sill guards, a body-coloured rear spoiler, mud-flaps, seat-covers, designer floor mats and door visors. This variant also comes with carbon fibre trims on the dashboard & door pads and not to forget the attractive stickering. The move is looked upon as a measure to bolster the sales of the Petrol variants which have not been able to match up with its diesel cousin. In fact, their last report states that of all the Swift hatchbacks sold, only 20% of them were powered by a petrol engine, while the remaining 80% sold were diesel powered.

Maruti claims that customers save as much as Rs 8,000 if they opt to get these upgrades done versus getting them from the aftermarket. The company has also fastened the delivery period for Swift. Previously buyers had to wait up to 8 months but the company has increased the production of Swift to 20000 units per month which has brought down the waiting period up to just 2 months. However only time will tell how the new avatar of the Maruti Swift fares in the current era of rising fuel costs where almost all the petrol cars have taken a back seat.

The Maruti Swift virtually faces no competition from its other contemporaries but just for the sake of comparison you can also have a look at the Nissan Micra and the Chevrolet Beat.

Monday, April 16, 2012

Skoda Superb Now at Attractive Discount Rates


Skoda Superb is now available with a superb discount offer. The new affordable variant is called as the Ambition. The Škoda Superb 3.6 FSI 4x4 is current Škoda fastest serial car, with a top speed 250 km/h and acceleration of 0-100km/h in 6.5 seconds. It was also named Luxury Car of the Year in 2009 by Top Gear Magazine.

The New Skoda Superb Ambition has all the features except the projector headlamps, front proximity sensors and headlamp washers which come only with the high end Elegance variant. The interiors of the Skoda Superb Ambition also come without the touchscreen and only have a CD player with MP3for a low key entertainment.

If cabin space is a priority, then the Skoda’s limousine-like interior will be a strong draw. The spaciousness of the interior and the materials used enhance the extraordinary level of comfort and luxury during any journey. The new Superb also assists you closing the boot door. Sit in the driver’s seat and two things hit you. The first is the understated quality of the dashboard while the huge space at the rear will make your jaw drop.

The safety features of the New Skoda Super Ambition include airbags, ABS, EBD, ASR (Anti-Slip regulation), TCS (Traction Control system) and ESP (Electronic Stability Program). The best part is that the Ambition is available in both the petrol and diesel engine options. The petrol engine is fitted with a six speed manual and the diesel variant gets a DSG auto ‘box’. The superb does not get a tyre-pressure monitor. The Electronic Stability Control is a standard equipment on all the models.

The Skoda Superb price for the Ambition petrol is Rs 18 lakh while the diesel car is priced at Rs 22.5 lakh (Ex-Delhi). This means you get to save up to a huge sum Rs 1.5-1.8 lakh with the new budget friendly version. The Skoda Superb competes with the likes of Honda Civic and Volkswagen Jetta.