Cars

Bmw z2

2011-10-13T06:28:00.000-07:00

Ther German automaker BMW is preparing another iteration of their affordable open air roadster, the Bavarian version of the Z car, that competes head to head with the world’s best selling drop top, the Mazda MX-5. With the release of the all new BMW Z4, the automaker has introduced a much more attractive version of their fun to drive convertible by trading in the rounded bodylines for a much more sculpted and angular figure. However as the cars get newer and equipped with even more features, the one time affordable compact sports car has turned into a much more luxurious and expensive vehicle straying from the original Z1’s roots.

As automakers are looking to downsize their lineups in an attempt to move more units, it would appear that BMW is trying to tap back into what made the original Z1 so popular with a future Z2 compact roadster. Combining the agility of a lightweight fun to drive vehicle with the best in German engineering at an affordable price point a new Z2 roadster for 2011 would be quite a treat.

Bmw z5

2011-10-12T05:55:00.000-07:00

Perhaps the most interesting news of this Germanic trio, it seems BMW is working on a replacement for the funky-looking M3 Coupe. Even more interesting, however, is the name change that is rumoured to occur. You can forget getting mixed up with the M3 from the 3-series and M3 Couple from the Z-series, as BMW insiders are calling the new model the Z5.

The new look is a similar in profile (side-on) to the upcoming BMW Z4, yet the front-end of the Z5 is quite different, going for a less 'bulgy' and more angular look.The two-door coupe is currently in the testing phase

Sharing components of the upcoming Z4, the Z5 is also likely to borrow many elements from the X Coupé concept, such as tail lights.Furthermore, the next generation coupe is expected to be one of these ultra-light performance cars, somewhat similar to a Lotus Elise, for instance. As such, we can expect seminal handling and feedback from this rear-wheel driver.Sure, it won't come close to the Elise's mind-boggling 710kg mass, but in using aluminium, and even kevlar for areas such as the door panels, boot and bonnet, the new Beemer is expected to weigh in at around 1000kg.

Bmw z3

2011-10-11T05:50:00.000-07:00

It takes a while to come to grips with BMW's 1.9 litre Z3 roadster. On first acquaintance, there are things about its layout and design, and the way it performs and handles, that are disappointing.

Longer liaisons don't make the picture completely rosy, but at least they provide time to adjust to some of the car's foibles, and to appreciate that it does have quite a few endearing features.

BMW obviously places a lot of store on the nameplate and the image the Z3 projects, because in size and performance it's close to Mazda's highly regarded MX-5 which sells for around $20,000 less. The manual 1.9 litre Z3 (as tested) costs $65,900 and the automatic version, $67,900. s

Of course the Z3 comes with more standard equipment than an MX-5, and its list includes dual airbags, ABS brakes, leather upholstery, electric seat adjustment, electric windows, airconditioning, alloy road wheels, six-speaker stereo system and advanced anti-theft security. In the NRMA's car security rating exercise, the Z3 was awarded an excellent 89 points out of a possible 100.

The styling of the Z3 seems to generate mixed opinion; some love it, others think it looks too 'retro' for a late 1990s sports car. Personally, I like it because it's distinctive, and dares to be different. One thing for sure is that the Z3 attracts attention and turns heads like few other sports cars.

Finish standards on the Z3 look very good throughout, but I don't like the matt paint finish on the inside of panels such as the bonnet, boot and doors. The body itself feels solidly built, which is understandable in view of the car's hefty 1230 kerb mass.

The test car's all black interior trim, with cheap plasticky inserts on the seats and doors, looked unnecessarily drab - brighter colours would enhance the appeal. Putting the hood up or down is a straightforward task, but the hood tonneau cover is fiddly and awkward to fit.

The Z3 is strictly a two-seater and it does that pretty well, with good leg room and shoulder space, but the cabin ergonomics didn't suit me. I found the closeness of the pedals and their uneven heights uncomfortable, and the fixed steering wheel was too low and too large. The left footrest is not of much use, due to its angled position.

With a 1.9 litre four cylinder engine and a hefty kerb mass, the base Z3 was never going to be the performance model of BMW's new line-up. But while it's a touch quicker against the clock than both the Mazda MX-5 and the standard MGF, the 1.9 litre Z3 is by no means a road rocket. Overall, I would have expected better from a car costing nearly $70,000.

Regardless of actual acceleration times, most drivers would agree that it's important for a sports car to feel lively and responsive.

Unfortunately, the 1.9 Z3 doesn't feel responsive to drive, and much of the blame for that can be attributed to the throttle action which seems unnecessarily stiff. This is not such a problem out on the open road when the car is being hurried along, but it makes progress in stop/start traffic fairly tedious.

In the test car, the throttle was also slow to return to idle and sometimes the engine idled roughly, even after settling down.

What the 1.9 litre Z3 might lack in performance is balanced by its excellent fuel economy. Our overall test figure of 8.2 litres/100 km represents very economical sports car operation and compares favourably with both the MX-5 and MGF. However, the preferred fuel for the Z3 (and the MGF) is the more expensive Premium grade unleaded.

Handling is a bit of a mixed bag. On smooth surfaces with flowing corners, the Z3 is quite good, but on uneven, bumpy surfaces, it tends to jiggle about quite a lot. Also, the tyres tend to 'tramline' (follow road surface irregularities) at low speeds, and the car doesn't turn into corners as sharply as the MX-5 or the MGF.

The brakes are superb. Only a very light effort is required for normal stops, so you need to get used to that in order not to overbrake, but the braking is very powerful and fade-free under heavy use.

Honda city

2011-10-10T05:43:00.000-07:00

Honda has launched the newer version of Honda City with some cosmetic changes at its interior and exterior. Honda has also launched two new variants Honda City V MT which is available with manual transmission gearbox and Honda City 1.5 V AT that is available with automatic transmission gearbox. The new version of this most popular sedan will carry stylish five spoke alloy wheels and fog lamps that adds more style to its exterior. There are two accessories packages Elegance and Inspire is also introduced with the car but for that you have to pay Rs 34,000 to Rs 38,000 extra. The third-generation Honda City has started wooing the Indian auto lovers. The new Honda City is a luxurious sedan model that has lot of advanced features to offer to its potential buyers - new i-VTEC engine, new aerodynamic design, more grandeur, increased interior space, and of course, top-notch performance. Honda City has been well known as a prestigious brand in Indian market since its first launch in 1998 and it maintains a significant market share in its segment and its new model should taken its popularity to a much higher level. In India Honda City has been awarded as the "Car of the Year".

The aerodynamic looks of new Honda City - at the utmost are the most inspiring. With an arrow-shot form of design, the front grilles of the car are very appealing. Further the headlights of the vehicle are very sharp which adds to its compatibility. Interiors are very spacious because of the multiple storage facilities available. To add to the convenience with music Honda City is equipped with advanced integrated audio.

The New Honda City comes with a 1.5L, 1497cc, i-VTEC engine with four cylinders and 16 valves. This i-VTEC technology offers higher fuel efficiency with increased engine performance. Further the 5-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifts offers much more convenience in handling the car. The unique Paddle Shift gear transmission option make you able to switch gears without using the clutch pedal. Considering the performance aspect of the car it has a capacity to provide a maximum power of 118PS at the rate of 6600 rpm. On the other hand it delivers a torque of 146Nm at the rate of 4800 rpm. Honda City has a Rack and Pinion type of steering system having a minimum turning radius of 5.3m. Front brakes are disc type while the rear brakes are drum type. Fuel tank capacity of the vehicle is 42 litre. Presently Honda City is available with three variants with both manual and automatic gear transmission and with six exciting colors. In order to transform the Honda City into one's comfort zone paasenger just needs to start up the AC system with a heater added which is capable of transforming the inside space as per required.

Honda civic

2011-10-09T05:40:00.000-07:00

Honda Siel Cars India (HSCI) has launched the newer version of its popular premium sedan segment model Honda Civic with some new exterior features and some interior cosmetic changes. The newer version of Honda Civic is more stylish than its older version and its front look has been enhanced with its stylish grille, fog lamps and sporty headlamps. The all new Honda Civic is available with three variants - Honda Civic S MT with manual transmission gearbox and Honda Civic V MT and V AT which is available with manual and automatic transmission option respectively.
The current Honda Civic, which was first introduced as the 2006 model year, is available now as Honda Civic S MT, Honda Civic V MT and Honda Civic V AT. All the three variants of Honda Civic are powered by a i-VTEC 1.8-litre, 4 cylinder, 16 valve, PGM-Fi petrol engine, which pumps out maximum power of 132 Ps at 3200 rpm and produces a peak torque of 17.5 kgm at 4300 rpm. Honda Civic S MT and V MT variants are mated with a five speed manual gearbox while the top end V AT variant comes coupled with 5 speed automatic transmission with paddle shift. The new Honda Civic has got front ventilated disc and rear disc brakes along with front McPherson Strut and rear double-wishbone type suspension. The car has power steering and tubeless 15 inch alloy wheels as well.

Honda has also introduced two accessories packages Elegance and Inspire with Honda Civic. The Elegance package offers rear door sunshade, Illuminated Side Step Garnish and Door Visor while the Inspire package offers Front Under Spoiler, Trunk Spoiler, Rear Under Spoiler and Side Under Spoiler. The fog lamps are optional in S grade in the Elegance and Inspire package. The all new Honda Civic is a luxurious sedan model which has lot of advanced features to offer to its potential buyers - new i-VTEC engine, new aerodynamic design, more grandeur, increased interior space, and of course, top-notch performance.

For the Elegance package (without Fog Lamps) you need to pay Rs 24,000 extra and Elegance package (with Fog Lamps) you have to pay Rs 40,000 extra. For Inspire package (without Fog Lamps) you need to pay Rs 65,500 extra and Inspire package (with Fog Lamps) you need to pay Rs 81,500 extra.

The new Honda Civic additionally sports features such as leather seats, front fog lamps and turn indicators integrated into outside rear-view mirrors. The front fascia of the Honda Civic is aggressive and sporty; it has smoky headlights, metallic front grille, aerodynamic front bumper in body colour and front fog lamps. The electronically retractable ORVMs are also in body colour and now integrated with turn indicators. The door handles and door protectors are also wrapped in body colour; however V MT/AT variants come with chrome door handles and body colour door protectors with chrome insert. The green tinted front windshield features 3 speed intermittent wiper that is opposed flat-blade type. The rear side of the Honda Civic has eye-catching attributes. The compact rear end has Octo combi tail lights and dual exhaust pipes that look funky. The rear side look can be enhanced with Inspire package that offers three types of spoilers.

Those accustomed to the Honda Civic conservative tradition will be surprised to find a dramatic-looking interior that features a new two-tier dashboard layout. The latest Honda Civic are dressed with steering mounted controls, CD/MP3 player with AM/Fm player and 6 speakers. The other interior features include fabric and leather upholstery, beige and black interior colour combination, map and cabin lights, digital multiplex meter with illumination control and information display with trip metre.

Safety is another important aspect for Honda Civic, which it had decided for its customers. Available with SRS dual front air bags, ABS (Antilock Brake System) with EBD and brake assist system, the car ensures responsive handling. Other safety features include front fog lamps, engine immobilizer, auto door lock, child proof rear door lock, security alarm system and keyless entry with answerback, etc.

Bmw z8

2011-10-08T05:26:00.000-07:00

Introduced at the 1999 Frankfurt Auto Show, the BMW Z8 sports car was the company's conception of what its famous 507 roadster would have been if built past the 1950s. Stylistically, it offered many of the same cues, such as a long, sloping hood with round headlight blisters, twin-kidney grille, distinctive vents aft of the front wheels and a striking leather interior with a simplistic layout.
Not all was retro, though. The Z8's aluminum space frame was draped with aluminum body panels, and hidden from view was BMW's typical front strut/rear multilink suspension arrangement. For power, the Z8 relied on the same engine used for the third-generation M5 sedan.
The BMW Z8 was always intended to be a "halo" car, designed to draw attention to BMW and lead to increased sales of other BMW vehicles. BMW produced it for just four years with an annual production rate of about 1,500 cars. Naturally, Z8 ownership is an exclusive club. Given that the 507 is coveted by collectors and a good one can fetch more than half a million dollars, a similar future might be in store for the Z8.

Bmw z4

2011-10-07T05:20:00.000-07:00

f there wasn’t already a saying about marketing men never coming up with a great driver’s car, it’s time there was. And the new BMW Z4 could be the perfect example. Flash back a couple of years and those marketeers asked BMW customers what they wanted from a replacement for the Z4 Coupé and Roadster. A car that’s more practical with a more forgiving ride, came the response. Oh, and it must have a folding hardtop. Prospective Z4 buyers, it seems, were being lost to the Mercedes-Benz SLK. And the Bavarians baulked at that.

So in the German firm’s own words, the new Z4 has been built as a “conquest” car; its function is to capture customers from rivals such as Audi (the TT), Porsche (Cayman and Boxster) and, of course, Mercedes and its darned SLK.

You can imagine whispered chats in Munich corridors between engineers about bloody marketing men and their unreasonable and contradictory demands for a sports car that mustn’t be too sporty.

Give them credit; they’ve done their best to overcome this. They’ve even come up with a new BMW acronym, DDC, or Dynamic Drive Control. With three settings (Normal, Sport and Sport +) you can “tune” the throttle response, gear change time and steering to your liking. Spend extra on the Adaptive M suspension and the ride quality adjusts, too.

You can argue that Normal is too harsh while Sport + is too rigid, with a throttle response that’s overly sharp for drivers who value smooth inputs. But at least you have the choice.
For pottering about, the Normal setting suits the Z4. This latest model has grown in all directions apart from upward compared with its predecessor and it feels like a far more substantial car. The real impact of this growth becomes apparent as soon as the tarmac turns twisty – conditions you might imagine a BMW sports car would relish.
The Normal setting becomes too floppy in these more challenging circumstances, but select Sport + and the Z4 will take everything in its capacious stride. Nothing wrong there, but a Cayman or Boxster would demand your attention and reward you by momentarily knocking a decade or two off how old you feel.

While the BMW doesn’t break into a sweat or feel out of its depth, neither does it engage as much as keen drivers will demand.
So it’s a grand tourer more than a fully focused sports car – except the wind noise around the front edge of the roof would be a trifle irritating on a long motorway journey. Overly loud tyre noise would have you turning the music up to a level that would preclude non-shouted conversation. And the multiple storage compartments that are too small for anything other than an iPod would get on your wick over a period of time.
The interior is nicely built and the extra space is very much appreciated, as is the improved visibility, up 14 per cent. But the aluminium roof is the scene stealer, folding in two to vanish into the boot in 20 seconds.
Its lack of weight means you don’t notice any difference in the Z4’s dynamic capabilities when it’s stowed. And it ticks the box of creating an SLK-style coupé and roadster in one.
Raising the roof, however, robs the Z4 of one of its most attractive attributes. It takes too much edge off the three-litre, twin-turbo engine’s noise.
It’s only when you drop the top that you hear the all-aluminium straight-six in all its glorious woofliness, an extra growl specially inserted as the sports auto changes up, a barking blip as it changes down.
It’s this seven-speed gear change, currently only available on the sDrive35i, that proved the most impressive part of this car. As with other double-clutch changes such as the VW group’s DSG system, cogs are swapped quicker than the blink of an eye. But it’s the aforementioned attention to detail, including a superbly seamless hill start function, that sets it apart from rivals.
You might have noticed we’ve skirted around its looks. It’s not ugly in the way of the X3, or visually deceiving like the X6, but it is nonetheless curious.
There are elements of the 7-series about its front end, there’s a 6-series-aping rear and more than a hint of Z8 about its overall shape.
It’s easier on the eye with the roof down and BMW has done well to disguise the compromises inherent with stowing bulky folding hardtop mechanisms.
Shame the concessions over the driving experience haven’t been overcome so satisfactorily. Bloody marketing men.

Bmw x6

2011-10-06T05:07:00.000-07:00

German automobile maker BMW is again going to create history with it’s highly acknowledged “X series” cars. Recent reports states that, BMW is all set for the launch of 7-seater SUV “BMW X7” cars in Chinese market soon. BMW cars has always been known for delivering the best road dynamics and with BMW X7, the company is planning to spread the charisma once again. With main motto of delighting the driver than occupants, BMW X series executes its punch line “the joy of BMW” perfectly well.

Bmw x1

2011-10-05T05:07:00.000-07:00

At the forefront of many a mind at this precise moment will be the word ‘why?' Possibly prefaced by ‘Dear' and ‘God'. The X1 is the latest in an increasingly long line of confused and confusing BMW products. Much like the 5-Series GT, it demands a double take, just to work out exactly what you're looking at. Do you need glasses? Or does someone at BMW need medicating?
The whole soft-roader/crossover idea is hard to get your head around. Neither as good at being a car as a car, nor anywhere near as capable of SUV-ness as a proper SUV. It's a lifestyle statement, and that's a dubious concept whatever you're buying into: a novelty ringtone, a ‘wacky' hair cut. If something doesn't exist because it needs to, chances are it makes you look like a bit of tool. And the existence of a compact pseudo-SUV is a tough case to make.

But here's how to make it: the existing X-range, 3, 5 and 6, account for one fifth of all BMW's global sales, so from a purely fiscal point of view, that inevitable ‘why' is seen off with ‘well why wouldn't you?' The X1 should sell in droves.
Then there's the drive. The X1 feels as large as it looks. Which is to say, not massive, but it's no 1-Series. An elevated driving position probably has something to do with this, but so does a kerbweight of 1,670kg. That's a hell of a lot for what is, nominally at least, a small car. But with the flagship 123d that BMW is launching first, you get 201bhp and 295 lb ft of torque, delivered with typically Teutonic gusto through a seamless six-speed auto. So it may feel a little leaden at manoeuvring speeds, but once you're out and about it's genuinely brisk. And although in-gear acceleration is a far better measure of useful day-to-day performance, the standard stats are none too shabby either: 0-62mph in 7.3 seconds and a top speed of 127mph.

What's more, despite the increase in weight and height over a normal 1- or 3-Series, the expectation of dynamic competence that hangs over any BMW is essentially well met. The steering is a bit vague, but this lends itself to cruising comfort over driving involvement, and sensibly so. And regardless of this, the X1 feels superbly planted and relatively roll-free. If BMW can make an X5 handle, they can certainly see to this. But the compromise is a ride that is slightly too firm, transmitting more vibration through the cabin than you would expect from a car with what is otherwise such a high level of refinement.
Road noise is also a tad generous, all things considered, and that's on 17-inch alloys which, if we're honest, could do with being a lot larger from an aesthetic point of view. Spec one of these up properly and it threatens to be a right bone shaker.
There are other issues that warrant a mention too. Rear visibility is lousy and, despite plenty of headroom, there's nowhere for lanky legs in the back. Fine for younger kids admittedly, but in a car with these proportions you'd expect to be able to get adults in there.
There is a huge boot though, with 420 litres expanding to over three times that with the rear seats folded flat. And the raised ride height makes this all very easy to access.
So with that in mind, along with the similarly high cabin, modest dimensions (on Planet SUV) and economical diesel, the X1 starts to sound like a watertight proposition for young families.
And as the car goes on stream this case will only be strengthened, for BMW is planning to offer the car with smaller diesels (no petrol options are even coming to the UK) and a more affordable and frugal rear-wheel-drive option, dispensing with both weight and complexity. These lesser-spotted X1s will manage up to 54.3mpg without giving away too much in terms of performance.
There is a catch though. Priced from £22,660 for the basic 140bhp rear-wheel-drive 18d to £29,055 for the all-wheel-drive 23d we've got here, no X1 is going to be cheap. BMW is eager to stress that this is the first ‘premium' car in its market, although they seem to have forgotten the arrival of the Infiniti EX. But new cars aside, if you choose to include, say, the Volkswagen Tiguan as a point of comparison, as BMW itself does in its comparative data, then you ought to include the Land Rover Freelander too, which was fairly premium last time we looked. (Not that a Tiguan is much like slumming it either...)
Whatever, there is no shortage of competition when it comes to small SUVs. It was always a sticking point for BMW that it made the X3 quite so expensive, and now that it's managed to redress that, Beemer's marketeers might well take some market share from the likes of Land Rover and VW, particularly from the groundswell of people unwilling to be seen driving something that is readily labelled as a ‘4x4'.
But there is risk inherent in this. It's very hard to label the X1 as anything, except ‘odd', and not everyone will like that. After all, what's wrong with a 3-series Touringfor the same kind of money? Clue: absolutely nothing. And if you want a sort-of-SUV, chances are you secretly want a proper SUV. Which brings you back to your Freelanders, Tiguans and Volvo XC60s.
Make no mistake, the BMW X1 is a good product. But is it one that anyone will actually want?

2011-10-05T01:40:00.000-07:00

Mahindra Verito with new sporty design, improved features now available at affordable price, petrol model starts from Rs. 4.82 Lacs and Diesel Verito starts from Rs. 5.62 Lacs. Verito offers same proven Renault diesel (1.5 Litre) and Petrol (1.4 Litre) Engine.

Mahindra Verito Mileage: 21.03 KMPL (Diesel) ARAI Certified
Mahindra Verito Features:

Low running and maintenance cost
1.5 DCi CRDi diesel engine or 1.4 MPFI petrol engine option
Petrol variants : G2 and G4 and Diesel variants : D2 , D4 and D6
ABS with EBD, Driver Airbag, side impact beams, driver information system
Unique ski racks and side cladding
Huge 510 litre boot capacity with spacious seating
Available in Seven Colors: Twilight Blue, Fiery Black, Java Brown, Mist Silver, Toreador Red, Rocky Beige, Diamond White

Verito Technical Specification:

1.4L MPFI Petro Engine: 1390cc, 4 Cylider, 8 Valve
Max Power: 75 hp @ 5500 rpm
Max Torque: 110 Nm @ 3000 rpm
Kerb Weight: 1080 Kg
1.5L dCi CRDi Diesel Engine, 1461cc
Max Power: 65 hp @ 4000 rpm
Max Torque: 160 nm @ 2000 rpm
Kerb weight: 1140 kg
Tyres: 185/70 R14 Tubeless
Length: 4247mm
Width: 1740mm
Height: 1540mm
Wheelbase: 2630mm
Ground Clearance: 172mm
Fuel tank capacity: 50 Litre
Suspension Front: Macpherson-type with Wishbone Link
Rear: H-Section torsion beam with programmed deflection-coil spring

Volkswagen polo

2011-10-04T22:35:00.000-07:00

Volkswagen offers six different cars in India, one car in hatch-back small car segment, one car in midsize sedan segment and four cars in Luxury segment. Other features, price and specification are given below…

Engine

This latest launch from Volkswagen comes equipped with a 1.2 litre powerful engine. The petrol engine of Volkswagen Polo is capable of yielding an output of 75HP @5400 rpm and a Torque of 110NM @3750 rpm. The diesel variant of this latest launch hatchback boasts of an output of 75HP @4200 rpm and torque of 180 NM @ 2000 rpm.

A View Worth Everything at Volkswagen Polo

Designed to deliver the best performance on road, this hatchback from Volkswagen comes equipped with various features that include:

Body coloured bumpers with green tinted heat absorbing glass
Halogen headlights
Galvanized Body with 6 years Anti Corrosion Warranty
Large 15” alloy wheels (Volkswagen Polo Highline)
Storage compartment in front doors for 1 litre Bottles
Sunglass storage inside glove box
Single folding rear seat backrest & dashboard.

Safety & Comfort Features of Volkswagen Polo

CD MP3 Player changer with 4 speakers
Power steering for better drivability
Central locking with unique boot opener in company logo
Height adjustable driving seats with a steering wheel tilt which improves the drivability of the passenger
Advanced occupant safety
Dual airbags (for both driver and passenger side)
Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)
Electronic Anti theft immobilizer

According to the automaker, this latest launched Volkswagen Polo's 1.2L petrol variant will be ready for deliveries from march 2010 across all VW dealerships. The 1.2 litre diesel variant of Volkswagen Polo will be available the month of May 2010.

Maruti Suzuki kizashi

2011-10-04T01:22:00.000-07:00

Maruti Sukuki India earlier today launched the much anticipated Kizashi Sedan at a price tag of Rs. 16.5 lakhs. The Kizashi Concept, first introduced at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, illustrated Suzuki’s entry into the D-segment offering offering performance, prestige and quality at affordable prices.
Under the hood, the new Maruti Suzuki Kizashi will be powered by a 2.4 litre petrol engine and will be available in both manual and automatic variants. The 2400cc DOHC petrol engine is capable of producing 176 Bhp at 6500 rpm and 224 Nm at 4000 rpm. The six-speed manual variant comes at a price tag of Rs. 16.5 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi) while the automatic variant is priced at Rs. 17.5 lakh.

The Kizashi will be on offer in three shades : Premium Silver Metallic, Super Black Pearl and Snow White Pearl. The fuel efficiency for the Kizashi is 12.53 Kmpl. The Bookings for the Kizashi have already commenced with an initial deposit of Rs 50,000/-, and deliveries are expected to start in March, 2011.
The Kizashi in India will be competing with the likes of Toyota’s Corolla, Volkswagen AG’s 2011 Jetta, General Motors’s Chevrolet Optra and Honda Motor Co’s Civic.

Maruti Suzuki Kizashi : Press Release

New Delhi, 2nd February 2011: Maruti Suzuki India Limited, the country’s largest car manufacturer today unveiled it’s much awaited luxurious and sporty sedan, ‘Kizashi’. Kizashi is the company’s first offering in the upper end of the Indian car market. Kizashi offers an excellent packaging of feature rich luxury, style and sporty performance. It is manufactured at Suzuki Motor Corporation’s Sagara plant in Japan and will be imported into India as a Completely Built-up Unit (CBU). After its launch in Japan in late 2009, the Kizashi was introduced in the US.
Kizashi will be available in India in two variants: Manual Transmission (MT) and Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT). At the launch, Shinzo Nakanishi, Managing Director and CEO, Maruti Suzuki India said, “The Kizashi is a major step forward for Maruti Suzuki. With the launch of this luxurious sporty sedan, Maruti Suzuki is able to offer an international car to top-end customers in India. I am delighted to note that most previews by auto experts here have been positive, appreciating the Kizashi’s stylish looks, sporty performance and luxurious feel. We are fully geared to delight customers in a segment where we have been absent so far.”
Kizashi delivers a sporty performance thanks to its powerful engine. The agility and performance is well complemented with a sporty look and profile of the Kizashi. With the array of top-end features Kizashi compares well with the premium luxury sedans in higher segments. The imposing front grille, compact and sleek exteriors coupled with exclusive interiors makes Kizashi stand tall among competing brands. The Kizashi aptly reflects the sporty DNA of Suzuki Motor Corporation in the styling and performance.
The Kizashi is powered by the celebrated 2.4 litre DOHC J–Series engine that ensures potent performance (maximum output: 178 PS @ 6,500rpm and a maximum torque: 230Nm @ 4,000rpm) while offering excellent fuel efficiency of 12.53 Kmpl (CVT) and 12.45 Kmpl (6-speed MT). The Kizashi will be available in ‘Snow White Pearl’, ‘Super Black Pearl’ and ‘Premium Silver Metallic’ colors. The Kizashi will give customers a choice of Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT), which further promotes fuel economy along with a superior driving experience. The 6-speed Manual Transmission (MT) is tuned for the true driving enthusiast to give a taste of Suzuki Motor Corporation’s high technological competence.
The performance and handling of the Kizashi shall reflect the benefits of testing and tuning conducted in diverse conditions around the world. Kizashi has been tested in some of the most extreme conditions, like cold-weather trials in Minnesota and hot-weather trials in Death Valley, USA. Kizashi’s handling has been honed on challenging country roads in the United Kingdom and on autobahns in Nürburgring, Germany. Kizashi has been developed with special emphasis on combination of sportiness and elegance in its design, smoothness and quietness befitting a vehicle in this class and superior engine performance and fuel efficiency.

Renault Fluence

2011-10-03T22:30:00.000-07:00

May 23, 2011: Renault India launched its brand Renault and the Renault’s flagship bearer, the “Renault Fluence” in India at an official event today in New Delhi. Renault Fluence is launched in two variants- 2.0L petrol and another 1.4L diesel. The Renault Fluence price in India is Rs14.40 lakh for the 2.0 L petrol CVT Automatic version while the 1.5 L diesel is priced at Rs12.99 lakh ex-showroom in Delhi. The event was organized at Hyatt Regency in New Delhi. As per the official communication to Cardekho, all the senior members from Renault India management team were available for interactions with the media after the event.

Renault Fluence Prices shown here are indicative prices only.The Renault Fluence Ex-Showroom price range displays the lowest approximate price of Renault Fluence car model throughout India excludes tax,registration, insurance and cost of accessories. For exact prices of Renault Fluence , please contact the Renault Fluence dealer.

Honda brio

2011-10-02T22:23:00.000-07:00

NEW DELHI: Honda made an aggressive pitch in the high-volume compact car segment by rolling out Brio on Tuesday, pricing the base variant at Rs 3.95 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). The lowest-priced car from the Japanese company's stable will compete with models like Maruti's Swift and WagonR and Hyundai's i10 and i20.

After effecting major price cuts on its two models -Rs 66,000 cut on the City sedan and Rs 1.6 lakh reduction on Jazz - Honda expects the 1200cc Brio will lead its revival in India. However, the push comes at a time when demand for diesel vehicles has gone up in a big way and Honda does not have diesel engine. Company officials said they were confident that the Brio would manage to generate sufficient demand just as its R&D (research & development) centre works on developing diesel engine. Honda has fallen behind due to absence of diesel variants from its line-up and rising competition from companies like Volkswagen and Hyundai.
While the overall car market grew at 30% in the last financial year, Honda's sales fell 4%. In the first five months of the current financial year (April-August 2011-12), the company's sales have dropped 13%, though this has happened in a struggling passenger vehicle market, which has managed only a 2% growth. "The Brio gives us entry into the big-volume segment," Takashi Nagai, president and chief executive of Honda Siel Cars India, said. Nagai did not speak on the company's profitability in India post the price cuts on City and Jazz, but industry analysts said Honda has decided to go in for volumes at the cost of margins.

"Yes, there is dieselisation happening in the market. But we are confident on the Brio as we feel that it will give an efficient total cost of ownership," Jnaneswar Sen, senior vice president (sales & marketing), said..

Seki Inaba, director of marketing at Honda Siel, said he expects the Brio's volumes to be at least at the level of the City sedan. Honda hopes that with Brio sales picking up, the company will generate enough volumes to start production at its second plant at Tapukara in Rajasthan. The company's Greater Noida plant has a maximum capacity of 1.2 lakh units, roughly double to what it sold in the last financial year.

Mahindra scorpio

2011-10-01T02:02:00.000-07:00

Overview:

The Scorpio is a gentle yet powerful SUV from Mahindra & Mahindra. The new Scorpio reflects the muscular DNA of Mahindra with its aggressive stances, muscular adornments, strongly toned form, and revolutionary engine technology.

The first Mahindra Scorpio introduced in 2002 had set new benchmarks in the industry with its innovative styling, structure, and automotive technology. Since then, the SUV has undergone various modifications and changes to continue its story of domination.

The new Scorpio rightly tagged as 'Mighty Muscular' continues to retain Scorpio's worth and credibility in the market. It is introduced with a more powerful mHawk engine and revolutionary micro-hybrid technology. It also confirms to strict emission norms and makes the new Scorpio India's first BS IV car.

Powertrain and Performance:

The Scorpio is available in following variants: LX, SLE, VLX BS3, VLX BS3 HE AIRBAG, VLX BS4, VLX Automatic and VLX BS3 HE AIRBAG Special edition. The heart of all the variants is a refined 2.2-litre 4-cylinder mHawk diesel engine that is mated to revolutionary micro-hybrid technology. The engine generates a whopping 120 bhp of power and propels the car from 0 to 60 km/h in just 5.7 seconds.

The advanced mHawk engine is one of the most recent innovations in the Indian car industry and in the new Scorpio it is optimized for higher fuel efficiency and lower emissions. It is supported with Bosch common rail diesel technology with solenoid injectors to give an incredible boost to mileage and also help conserve the environment. Moreover, the mHawk's new 2-stage chain drive system and hydraulic lash adjuster drastically reduce the level of engine noise resulting in smoother and quieter operation.

In addition, the micro-hybrid technology enables the engine to intelligently switch off when the car is idle, eventually lowering fuel-consumption and reducing pollution. The system automatically starts the engine again when the clutch pedal is pressed. It also makes the car compliant to BS IV emission norms.

The SUV is linked to a 2-wheel drive with independent front with coil springs and anti-roll bar or a 4-wheel drive torsion bar front suspension. A multilink rear suspension with coil springs provides good ride stability and comfort.

A 5-speed manual transmission comes standard on the 2009 Scorpio and a 6-speed automatic transmission is present on the top-end VLX Automatic variant. The automatic transmission is fitted with user engaged and auto engaged modes for an excellent driving experience.

Under the user engaged mode is the 'N' and 'W'. 'N' is the normal mode for ordinary driving conditions and 'W' is the winter mode that can be switched over to on icy and slippery roads to improve the car's stability. It also has an additional 'M' mode that is the manual/engine brake mode that utilizes braking force of the engine for enhanced control on steep descents.

In the auto engaged mode there are 'Uphill and Downhill Mode' and 'Fast-Off Mode'. Uphill and Downhill Mode is the basic control unit of the transmission system that implements relevant gear shifts whereas the Fast-Off Mode helps to avoid any kind of rapid gear changes in case the driver releases the pedal quickly.

Build and Styling:

The Scorpio is aggressively structured with a well-toned body structure complemented by an imposing new front grille with a glint of chrome in the middle, gladiator-like wraparound bumpers, sporty decals, illuminated spoiler, and electrically-powered outside rear view mirrors. The stimulating new bonnet scoop with its low-drag intake design keeps the Scorpio cool and calm and the new chunky door handles add extra muscle to the car. Furthermore, the embossed side cladding and the sporty new fog lamps add expression to the car's aggressive characteristics. The seamlessly integrated rear footsteps further lead to admiring glances.

On the inside, the car is draped in rich and unique fabric accented with dual colour themes. The ergonomically designed seats of the car are fitted with new foam contours and 'Body Pressure Mapping' to enhance seating comfort and push refined comfort to new heights. In addition, the race-inspired gear knob, steering wheel mounted controls, styling parking brake, and 2-DIN audio system complemented with aesthetically designed controls, highlight the beauty of the intimate ambience. The centre of the cabin, with a futuristic centre bezel, reflects a mix of modern and classic touch.

When it comes to safety, the new Scorpio is packed with a host of advanced technologies like the anti-lock braking system, cruise control, fire retardant upholstery, crash protection crumple zones, tubeless tyres, smart rain and light sensors, and digital engine immobiliser. The 2009 Scorpio is also equipped with an Intelligent Parking System that warns the driver about any obstacle while reversing and a 'Tyretronics' system that gives live update of the exact air pressure and temperature in each of the car's tyres.

mahindra XUV500

2011-09-30T22:21:00.000-07:00

Scorpio and Xylo owners stared, then let out a smile and a thumbs-up sign followed. People rolled down their windows, stopped their motorcycles, turned their heads in disbelief at the sight of the XUV500. Sure, they even asked what's with the name (and so do we), but they all universally agreed, it's a smart looking vehicle.

If this is the kind of response the XUV500 is getting in just its first day in Mumbai, I just wonder how well prepared Mahindra is to deliver the vehicle to potential customers. A few hundred of these Five-Oh-Oh vehicles are currently in Chakan and at stockyards across the country, but it seems, it may just not be enough. Nor will the 2000 units a month capacity that Mahindra has currently installed for its premium vehicle.

All things point at yet another success story from Mahindra - their top honchos are rather delighted at the prospect. But the moot point is this, after the hype has died down, after enough backs have been patted on, it's crunch time. Mahindra believes it's their best effort and have made an honest attempt at it. Is it their best? Is the attempt honest? Is it Mahindra's ticket into the premium segment or is there some way more to go.? We tested the XUV, drove it flat out, crawled through the urban mess and generally fiddled around, played with all its gizmos and even got around to ask a few for their opinion. This is, our honest attempt at giving a true picture of the XUV500. Here it goes.