New Maruti Suzuki DZire Launched

With a boot just 145mm longer than the current Swift, the new Dzire has been resurrected with a quirky yet queer design. Priced between Rs 4.79 Lakh to 6.54 Lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) for the petrol version and Rs 5.80 to 7.09 Lakh for the diesel version, this betrunked three box sedan now also features a dual tone dashboard, integrated stereo (higher variants) and a host of safety equipment

As a competitor in a bare bones entry level sedan market, the Maruti Suzuki Dzire was built for the clear purpose of being a cost effective mass market three box passenger car. And having sold over 3.3 lakh units till date in the domestic market, it’s safe to say the vehicle did what was expected of it.


With the arrival of the new Swift model in 2011, it was only a matter of time before MSIL got busy with carving out the look for its next generation Swift Dzire. With a boot just 145 mm longer than the current generation Swift hatch, the new Dzire has now been launched with a refreshed look and feel. Restricted to 3995mm in length to take advantage of the lower excise duty advantage for cars under the 4,000mm mark, the boot on the new Swift Dzire has been compromisingly reworked (Read : Boot Space Comparo), but still offers a healthy 316 litres of trunk space.

Performance and fuel efficiency figures on the new face-lifted or rather boot deflected sedan has certainly gotten better with both the petrol and diesel models. The K12M VVT petrol engine powered model delivers 87PS of power @ 6000rpm and a decent 114Nm of torque @ 4000 rpm. But is now capable of going from 0-100kmh in just 12.6 seconds, and offers a company claimed fuel efficiency of 19.1 kmpl.


The acclaimed 1.3litre DDiS engine will continue to power the diesel version generating 75PS of power @ 4000rpm and a solid 190Nm of torque @ 2000rpm. Going by the reputation of this engine, a forward sprint of 0-100kmh in just 14.8 seconds and a company claimed efficiency figure of 23.4kmpl shouldn’t be too far from the data that our rigorous Road Test (Read : First Drive) of the car will eventually fetch us.

For added convenience to city dwellers, MSIL has also introduced a four speed automatic transmission with the petrol engine model for now. Hopes are however that this mechanism is extended to the diesel version as well in the future.

Cosmetic upgrades on the new car are also quite apparent with the inclusion of an all new dual tone dashboard, an integrated stereo on higher models and climate control air conditioning. Safety on the new Maruti Swift Dzire is one of the most noteworthy improvements with a host of safety features such as front dual SRS airbags, ELR seatbelts, ABS, Brake Assist, EBD and an Engine Drag Control system all now part of the this reworked next gen D’zire package (Read : Special Coverage).

Priced between Rs 4.79 Lakh to 6.54 Lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) for the petrol version and Rs 5.80 to 7.09 Lakh for the diesel version the new Swift D’zire will go head to head against the likes of the Tata Indigo CS, and continue to compete against the Toyota Etios and Mahindra Logan. If one were to go by the new D’zire’s on paper credentials, it could very well prolong its long standing success in this segment in the years to come.

VARIANT WISE PRICING FOR THE NEW MARUTI SWIFT DZIRE :

PETROL	DIESEL
LXi: Rs 4.79*  Lakh	LDi: Rs 5.80* Lakh
Vxi: 5.32* Lakh	VDi: Rs 6.31* Lakh
Zxi 6.19* Lakh	ZDi: 7.09* Lakh
Auto: Rs 6.54* Lakh

*All prices are ex-showroom Delhi

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MAHINDRA XUV5OO: Car of the Year, 2011 ET ZigWheels

With the XUV500 Mahindra has moved away from its Jeep-inspired lineage but kept its tough-as-nails DNA intact

The most talked about vehicle over the past year, even prior to its launch was Mahindra’s so-called global SUV which as everyone now knows manifested itself as the XUV500. The term global SUV is a misnomer for this is a vehicle which blurs the distinction between saloon, SUV or soft-roader and also MPV while being right on the ball as regards design and build, mechanicals and packaging, ride and handling, performance and fuel efficiency. However, what is important is that all these attributes which we mention are always a given for any decent car maker offering an all-new product.

But for Mahindra & Mahindra it was also a mighty challenge to move into mainstream automotive manufacturing courtesy the XUV500 breaking new ground as the firm’s first all-monocoque offering, the first Mahindra with a transverse engine layout driving the front wheels (of course an all-wheel drive offering is also part of the range) via a six-speed transaxle, again a first for the venerable jeep maker.

And did I say jeep maker? Well, banish this thought once and for all because with the XUV500 Mahindra has moved away from its Jeep-inspired lineage but kept its tough-as-nails DNA intact. In fact it might have sharpened it in many a new way while also delivering a sheen of polished refinement to the art of all-terrain motoring. That the XUV500 (Read : Road Test) turns in a strong performance from the moment one gets into the driver’s seat is just as much of a revelation as is the space and the comfort for the occupants, the superb ergonomics and the high value user proposition it maintains from end to end.

Of course, there are certain style elements which might not be to everyone’s liking and some details in the cabin are quirky while there are certain elements which yet need beefing up (the clutch for instance) but none can beat the magic of the package at a price point which makes the competition weep! Makes one wonder why the MNC car makers couldn’t conjure up such a package or did they give up even before they started?

SLIDESHOW:

Source: Zig Wheels

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Honda Brio : A deeper look

Honda's latest attempt at making a small car for India seems to be even more "enthusiastic" compared to its last 'jazzy' entry. We get behind the wheel of this spirited little hatchback to find out whether the Brio hits the right spot

Let’s get one thing out of the way – Honda makes great cars. There’s absolutely no doubt about that. But of course, it’s not so difficult to make good cars, even great ones, which start at double-digit lakh prices. Bring that figure down to half that, and you’ll see that it’s not such an easy task. Not that auto makers in India fail at this task, but just that the competition this down the order is far more cut throat and to stand out against the established competition is a fairly monumental task. Honda managed to burn, or let’s say slightly singe its fingers with the Jazz – a car which proved that you can have one of the best products in this hotly contested segment, and yet fail to make waves if the pricing is not right.

Honda did correct this factor eventually, with a significantly revised pricing for this wonderfully equipped and rather generously sized hatch, and boy did that do wonders for its sales. So with that lesson firmly in mind, Honda wasn’t about to put out a repeat performance when coming up with an entry level hatchback which would go head to head against established hot sellers such as the Hyundai i10 and the lot. Now Honda does have a lot riding on this little car, given the fact that the entry and mid-order hatchback segments account for most to the top selling cars in India. Also given the fact that Honda has a fairly small product portfolio in India, it becomes even more critical to get each car right. But as we’ve said before, Honda never gets its products wrong, and this fact couldn’t be better iterated after you take a look at the new Brio.

The outside story

The Brio certainly is a looker. In this segment where classical designs are more appreciated than anything radical, the Brio has everything working in its favour. While it doesn’t have the sharp, funky lines of its rival, the Chevrolet Beat, or the radical futuristic styling of its elder sibling, the Jazz, it still manages to stand out in a crowd quite easily. The well proportioned stance with short overhangs is something that really gives the car a dynamic look. While Honda’s designers might want to describe the styling as 'double triangle' or the like in the language only automobile designers can speak and very few apart from their ilk can understand, what is clear to understand is that the Brio does look like it’s moving forward at a good clip even when its standing still, especially when viewed bang-on from the side.



This is accentuated by the slashed crease just below the shoulder line and a parallel crease near the bottom of the car. Then there is there is a wide stance with its flared wheel arches, reminiscent of more sporty cars which really improves the appeal by leaps and bounds. This wider track combined with the car's relatively short wheelbase of 2,345mm as well as the lack of overhangs at either end, and the Brio comes across as a little rally car that would be more at home spewing dust on special stages rather than pootling about town. The front of the car bears the typical Honda traits that we’ve come to accept now, such as the large ‘H’ badge on the grille.

Then there is the rear of the car. Now most people, especially after looking at the pictures, might say that the all-glass tailgate with the small, sharp clear glass taillights, looks strange. One might even be forgiven for thinking this, as pictures really don’t do it justice. But one look at that rump in the flesh is enough to convince you of how wrong you were. The thick black accents on the glass tail-gate combined with the round lights inside the clear-glass taillight cluster give it the look of a cartoon character from traditional Japanese anime. It makes the car look especially cute and endearing when looked at from the rear angle, and it is probably the most instantly recognisable backside on any Indian hatchback at the moment.

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Cars of 2012 : Special Coverage

While some pundits might be harking on about the end of the world in the year to come, the year 2012 does hold many goodies of the four-wheeled kind for Indian automobile consumers and connoisseurs alike. This year itself has already seen some rather critical launches from many of the established players in the Indian market, but come 2012, it seems the ante is going to be upped much further. Not only are the companies which have a strong footing in India planning to release some much needed updates and fresh launches, 2012 will also see some brand new companies make their foray into the Indian automobile space. One thing is for sure, 2012 is definitely going to be an exciting year with regards to automobiles. Here's a list of cars we believe will be launched next year

More on Cars of 2012

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Hatchbacks of 2012

The most popular segment in the nation promises to be an exciting one in 2012 as some of the most famous manufacturers prepare to unleash some seriously good cars. Fiat, Ford, GM and the others have...

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Compact Sedans of 2012

This is a segment that is spreading like wildfire. Sub 4-metre length without having to compromise on space and a decent sized boot along with excise benefits getting passed onto the customer means...

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Sedans of 2012

Sedans have always enjoyed premium status here in India no matter what segment. and its not without a reason. A lot of metal for your money, and space to boot sedans make for a very practical choice....

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NEWS

SUVs' of 2012

Big, brawny and loaded with presence, SUV's have always been a hit here and our SUV obsessed nation has a whole barrage of SUV's headed its way. This is arguably going to be "the"...

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MPVs' of 2012

Another extremely popular segement but with very few contenders in it is the MPV or Multi purpose vehicle category. The segment for long has been dominated by one Japanese manufacturer. But more...

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Sportscars of 2012

The most desirable segment of the lot. Exotic, sizzling hot and fast enough to get you into trouble, sportscars will always make us go weak in the knees. Expect some high speed action in this segment...

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New Honda City Launched

Starting at a price tag of Rs. 6.99 Lakhs, ex-showroom Delhi, this is a facelift on the third generation of Honda's mid-sizer for India

Honda Siel Cars India has launched a facelift of its popular mid-size sedan, the City. Apart from the refreshed looks and the addition of features like a sunroof on the option variant, another big move is the slashing of prices on this new version of the car.

With refreshed interiors and exteriors, the Honda City's new version will be available at a base price of Rs.6.99 Lakhs, ex-showrrom Delhi and will be available in four trim versions namely, Corporate, E, S, V. The V trim version will be available in automatic transmission as well, along with an option for a sunroof.

Saki Inaba, Director Marketing, Honda Siel Cars India Ltd. said at the launch, "Honda City is one of the most successful car brands in the country and certainly the most desirable sedan in its category. Honda City has achieved the No.1 rank in JD Power for the 11th time."

The City is powered by a 1.5-litre iVTEC engine, which churns out 118PS of power, and is known for its refinement. Safety features on the car include ABS with Brake Assist, Dual SRS Airbags, and G-CON. The new Honda City now also have Cruise Control for select models.

The Honda City will be available in six colors namely Carnelian Red Pearl, Sparkling Brown Metallic, Urban Titanium Metallic, Bold Beige Metallic, Alabaster Silver Metallic, Taffeta White. The prices of the New Honda City variant-wise, ex-showroom Delhi are:

Corporate-                                           6.99 lakhs

E-                                                         7.70 lakhs

S-                                                         8.20 lakhs

V manual transmission-                         8.70 lakhs

V automatic transmission-                     9.42 lakhs

V(sunroof)  manual transmission-          9.50 lakhs

V(sunroof) automatic transmission-      10.22 lakhs

Source: zigwheels

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Nissan Sunny Diesel Launched

Nissan Motor India Private Ltd. today opened the booking for the diesel variant of its mid-sized sedan, the Nissan Sunny in a diesel option with a starting price of Rs. 7.98 lakhs, ex-showroom Delhi

Sharing the same ‘V’ platform and the 1.5 litre engine, both from the Micra, Nissan Motor India has announced the prices of the Sunny in its diesel avatar namely the XL variant at Rs. 7.98 lakhs and the XV variant at Rs. 8.78 lakhs. Bookings for the car have been started.

The 1.5 litre, K9K engine, taken from the Renault – Nissan Alliance has an ARAI claimed fuel efficiency of 21.64 kilometers to a litre with the power figure of 86 PS @ 3750 rpm and torque of 200 Nm @ 2000 rpm. The four cylinder engine is mated to a five speed manual transmission in both trim versions.

Mr. Kiminobu Tokuyama, Managing Director & CEO, Nissan Motor India, said, “We are delighted to introduce the diesel variant of Sunny for the Indian market. At a time when Indian market is witnessing an increase in demand for diesel cars, Sunny Diesel with Nissan technology of high performance and fuel economy will be the right choice for our valued customers in their search for the most suitable sedan.”

In terms of safety, the Sunny diesel comes equipped with Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA),Engine Immobilizer and Airbags with its focus on young professional with a lot of kilometers to travel on a daily basis. Mr. G M Singh, Vice Chairman & MD, Hover Automotive India, Nissan’s Marketing & Sales partner said, “Introduction of Sunny is another major milestone in Nissan’s efforts to grow fast in the Indian market which is growing at much faster pace compared to many other parts of the world now. The fact that we are able to clock over 3000 sales for the Petrol Sunny so far reinforces our belief that Indian customers prefer Nissan’s products which are filled with innovation and excitement.”

The Nissan Sunny Diesel will be available in six colors namely Bronze Grey, Blade Silver, Storm White, Sapphire Blue, Onyx Black and Brick Red.

Source: zigwheels

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Audi A9 launched

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KICHERER SLS Roadster Car Wallpapers 2011

The KICHERER SLS Roadster Supersport GT/R is based on the Mercedes-Benz SLS-Class. For this KICHERER created and mounted a sporty front spoiler, side skirts and a specially hand-made GT front grill. More accents are provided by the small aerodynamic fins that can be mounted on the bonnet and on the wings. A further highlight on the sports car is provided by the three-part 20 inch RS-1 lightweight complete wheels.The classic double-spoke design harmonises perfectly with the equally classic sports car silhouette of this retro-sports car.

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BMW 5 ActiveHybrid 2013

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Arrival of Audi TT

Last year, the introduction of the Audi TT RS to the U.S. market was under serious consideration. To gauge consumer passion for the high-performance car, Audi launched a petition on its Facebook page. After thousands of fans expressed their enthusiasm for the Audi TT RS in just one month, and the American automotive media praised its dynamics, Audi executives concluded the car’s time had come.

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Why buy hybrid cars

Saving the environment may be ONE of their motives, but hybrid buyers surely want to make a statement.

Since Hybrid is not so big in India, a hybrid car owner surely gets a second look. 

Rising fuel prices

The fuel prices in India is surely going high and people are surely looking out at other options.

Tax credits

With the Indian government recently announcing that they plan to go soft on the hybrid cars and plans to cut import duties on these vehicles, it might be one of the reason people would in the near future opt for green vehicles.


Hybrids are better for the environment

Cars, trucks and other mobile sources are responsible for almost half of the total air pollution and these hybrids vehicles can surely help to curb the ever increasing pollution level.

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New variant of Jetta in 2nd half of 2011

Introduced in 2008, the company sold around 2,500 units of Jetta in 2010

German auto major Volkswagen would introduce a new variant of its luxury sedan 'Jetta' in the second half of this year, a top company official said today. Introduced in 2008, the company sold around 2,500 units of Jetta in 2010.

Asked if they would replace the existing Jetta, Volkswagen Passenger cars Director and Board member Neeraj Garg told reporters here: "We will finish the existing ones (sales) and get in the new one in the second half of this calendar year." He said they would study the market on the new 'Blue Motion Technology before launching the other models based on it.

Volkswagen recently launched their premium luxury sedan 'Passat' equipped with Blue Motion technology. Garg said blue motion technology offers various features like 'Attention Assist' that detects driver fatigue and emits a warning signal, recommending a break from driving. Garg said they had received bookings for 100 units of Passat from across the country in the last two days alone.

"We will have to see the effectiveness of the Blue Motion Technology on how they (customers) like it.. Then we will try to make it in other models also," he said. He said they would begin delivery of Passat models later this month.

Garg was here to unveil their 71st store in the country "Volkswagen Mount Road". Volkswagen has appointed Chennai based Sundaram Motors as its dealer. This year,they also plan to add two more dealerships in Tamil Nadu, taking the total to eight. On the occasion Garg also introduced the Passat in Tamil Nadu, costing Rs 20.80 lakh (Ex-showroom Chennai). 

Cashing in on the IPL season, Garg unveiled the IPL variant of mid-size sedan Vento with 1.6 litre petrol engine. The vehicle would have plush leatherette, IPL decals, specially crafted doorsill garnish with an IPL Logo and cricket kit as a gift for buyers.

In 2010-2011 fiscal Volkswagen sold 51,608 units. Currently, Volkswagen retails Passat, Jetta, Vento, hatchback Polo, premium SUV Touareg, Beetle in India.It sold 8,095 units in March 2011 as against 987 units sold in the same period of the previous year.
Source: zigwheels.com

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New Hyundai EON : Exclusive Feature!

First instance of action in the cut throat low end entry level car segment is almost a revolution with Hyundai throwing style, substance, space, performance and fuel efficiency to take on the Alto league. Adil Jal Darukhanawala gets behind the wheel of the stunning Eon which he reckons is the modern day 21st century 800!

It is close to 14 years to the day when Hyundai opened its innings in India with a tall boy smallie to present not just its first car in the India market but also to present the first major challenge to Maruti Suzuki’s domination of the peoples’ car segment. Both Hyundai and Santro were unknown names in the Indian market but with some nifty marketing backed by sound engineering and design, the quirkily styled Santro helped establish the product and the brand in the minds of the Indian motorist.

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Barcelona Auto Car Show - Cars and Glamor

Bringing the hottest car show ever.. Share and comment with your views.

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Tata Pixel Zero Turn Drive Video - Awesome

The Tata Pixel concept that Tata Motors showcased at the 81st Geneva Motor Show is a revolutionary car considering its tiny proportions and extraordinary maneuvering capabilities. Check out this short clip of the Pixel showing off its zero turning radius, while presenting the cars wire free functionality options.

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Audi Q5 Business Edition to be launched in October 2011 in India

Armed with a two liter mill with Quattro, Audi Q5's will be available in showrooms across India from October this year priced at Rs. 35.13 lakhs ex-showroom Maharashtra as a CKD unit.

The German car manufacturer, Audi has announced the launch of its Audi Q5 Business Edition. The small SUV from Audi is powered by a 2.0 liter TDI motor pumping out 172 PS of power and 300 Nm of torque at 1750 rpm with a fuel efficiency of 12 kilometers to a liter. 17 inch alloys, xenon plus headlamps, daytime running lights, and an infotainment system with concert radio will run as standard equipment on the car. “The Audi Q5 2.0 TDI q is perfectly equipped to further strengthen our leadership position in the luxury SUV segment. As the Audi Q5 already has a broad fan base in India, this attractive price will now make this premium experience accessible to a wider customer base who aspire to own a luxury SUV endorsed by our ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’ philosophy.

The Audi Q5 2.0 TDI q powered by a dynamic and efficient engine is also equipped with best in-class interior and infotainment features,” said Michael Perschke, Head, Audi India.

In order to enhance the driving pleasure, a multi-function steering wheel, leather interiors with wood panels and rear parking aid would also be a part of the Audi Q5 Business Edition. “Audi India has experienced formidable growth, even surpassing annual sales of 3003 cars for 2010 in the first seven months of 2011. In July 2011, we sold 343 cars – a growth of 52 percent over the same period last year. Our focus is on strengthening our portfolio through the introduction of products like the Audi Q5 2.0 TDI q which are extremely relevant for India and also the expansion of our dealer network. With the opportunity that India presents, we are confident of achieving our retail sales target of 5000 cars by the end of 2011,” added Perschke.

The car would be available as a Complete Knock-Down unit for now.
Souce: zigwheels.com

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Ferrari & Maserati - Supercars in India - The fast and the elegant

Four of the most evocative car makers in the business have suddenly jumped into india with some of the hottest cars in the world on offer. We go absolutely hysterical!

 If you haven't heard the name Ferrari till date, you've really been living under a rock. From automotive enthusiasts to housewives, the name and image of the Prancing Horse evokes images of the ultimate in automotive performance and beauty. So much so that the fact that Ferrari will be selling its cars in India is almost a matter of pride of car lovers across the country.

Of course, Ferrari's reputation hasn't come into place overnight. It has been a long standing effort on the part of the Italian sports car maker to estabilish its brand for more than the last 60 years, competing, and winning multiple times, at the pinnacle of motorsport, Formula 1.

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