Auto Expo 2010

10th AUTO EXPO, NEW DELHI 2010

We are now just a few weeks away from the Auto Expo 2010. With the grand exhibition of exuberant cars and bikes, Delhi is all set to experience the thrill of latest automobile technology. A week long Auto Expo, scheduled from 5th to 11th January 2010 is ready to drive the Delhites crazy with amazing cars and bikes in a hilarious display at Pragati Maidan. This time around too, the Auto Expo is expected to open up to the automotive world a handful of developments and many new and exciting auto launches. The 2010 Auto Expo too will host launches from many auto makers, as well as global brands.

The gala of auto technology will witness the launches of many new cars and bikes on Indian roads. Almost all the major automobile manufacturers in India have already announced their upcoming vehicles to be launched at the Auto Expo 2010. I guess it is time to take another look at all that is going to appear before us at the Auto Expo.

Toyota has made the biggest news of Auto Expo 2010 by announcing the launch of its EFC small car concept in both sedan and hatchback category. Toyota is all set to carry forward its 'No Failure' tag in Indian Market. Toyota Avanza or another MUV launch at Auto Expo 2010 is confirmed. However the wait is all about whether Avanza or some other MUV. Toyota Prius is also confirmed for Auto Expo 2010. The most famous hybrid car in the world is going to be launched at the Auto Expo 2010. Toyota does not plan to sell this in large numbers but a hybrid will help the brand image for sure. Auto Expo 2010 is also expected to witness the launch of Maruti's first high end car in India - Suzuki Kizashi. However, Maruti Suzuki has not officially confirmed the Kizashi for an India launch.

Fiat has also decided to make Linea a more powerful 1400 cc petrol turbo, 120 PS engine. Recently tagged as the car of the year, Fiat Linea is ready to increase its power at Auto Expo 2010. There are also unconfirmed rumors about a diesel 1600 cc Linea coming up. Surely, the drivers will go crazy. International brand Skoda is also looking at the forthcoming Auto Expo to make it a platform to showcase its Yeti. Yeti is also being said to be readied with a diesel engine sourced from Octavia.


On the two wheeler front too, the 2010 Auto Expo seems to be set to make history. Austrian motorcycle manufacturer KTM, will introduce a 125cc street bike at the 10th Auto Expo in in January 2010. The bike will go on sale in Europe and India simultaneously, during the first quarter of 2010. Also expected are the usual participants from industries such as components, auto electrics, accessories, oil and lubricants, tyre companies, and AV solutions.


Expect all Indian car and motorcycle manufacturers to showcase their prestigious international models, concept vehicles and upcoming cars and bikes. The 2010 Auto Expo will likely continue on the path set by its previous editions to be a showcase of Asian Automobile Market.

By : Saranjeet Singh

Top 5 Low Cost Cars in India

Low Budget - High Performance

Indian automobile industry has become an extravaganza of astounding cars loaded with numerous features. Every car has its own set of advantages and features to get you mesmerized. From excellent fuel economy to lightning speeds, the variant car models available in Indian car market carry a splendid work of engineering excellence. Exuberant exteriors and lavish interiors have become one of the benchmarks for cars success in the market. Besides all the amazing features, the most important factor that drives customers shopping cart is car price. Indian car market has several segments of cars including Hatchback, Sedan, Sports Utility Vehicles, Luxury Cars and Mutli Utility Vehicles. Each segment has its own features and surprises in technology.

Middle class people are very careful about their hard-earned money and being a normal car buyer the priority is quite clear. The car should offer all the desired features along with an easy fit to customers pocket. The car should be fuel efficient, easy to handle, low on maintenance cost etc. With so many cars coming in the market it has become really difficult for a buyer to choose which one to buy

Here is a list of top five most efficient low budget cars in India.

1. Maruti Alto

   Alto is crowned as the 'Best Selling Car in India'. Alto is simply the best in its way to be suited to the Indian roads. It offers outstanding performance on the roads especially in the streets where turns are very sharp and speed may cause some kind of loss to the vehicle. The cruiser compact car gives an excellent fuel economy of 18 kmpl. Drive in a Maruti alto on the highway is nothing less than a cruise on road. Easy availability of spares and very low maintenance cost makes Alto a dream car. All these comes to your garage in an affordable price of Rs. Rs 2.2 to 2.7 lakhs only.

   Features

   • Smart Exteriors with Dynamic Front Grill & Bumper
   • Excellent Mileage of 18 kmpl
   • Effective A.C
   • Vibrant Colors

   Variants and Prices

VARIANT	PRICE (Rs. In Delhi)
Maruti Alto Std	2,24,214
Maruti Alto LX	2,55,018
Maruti Alto LXi	2,72,202

2. Chevrolet Spark

   Chevrolet Spark is the new sensation in Indian car market. The compact design and outstanding performance make Chevy Spark a must buy. Powered by 995 cc engine, Spark has the ability to touch the top speed of 150 kmph very easily. Considered as a driving treat on the highway, Spark has excellent city handling. Loaded with features like high quality fabrics, classically styled dash board with easily visible instrument panel , roomy leg space, noise insulating mat, sporty roof rails fitted alloy wheel and smiling face looks , Chevrolet Spark is a synonym to best car. The car is priced between Rs 3.1 to 4.2 lakhs.

   Features

   • Ample Space
   • High Performance
   • Good Fuel Economy

Variants and Prices

VARIANT	PRICE (Rs. In Delhi)
Spark 1.0	3,19,892
Spark 1.0 PS	3,32,154
Spark 1.0 LS	3,49,252
Spark 1.0 PS LPG	3,53,153
Spark 1.0 LS LPG	3,70,251
Spark 1.0 LT	3,79,186
Spark 1.0 LT with Opt. pack(with airbag	4,23,000

3. Maruti A- Star

   The all new A- Star from Maruti Udyog is called as 'Hot Hatch in the market'. Equipped with 1000cc engine, A-Star is considered to be the next generation of Maruti Alto which has grown as the best car in India. The Aerodynamic shape is so accurate that it makes you have a feel of sailing in air. Modern safety features including sound body teamed with lightness of the structure, the airbags and ABS for diversion of aftermaths in case of the collision make it a secure drive. Good fuel economy, stylish looks and acceptable comfort level makes Maruti A Star a tough competition in low budget packages of performance, comfort and safety. This complete package can be personalized in Rs. 3.4 to 4 lakhs.

   Features

   • Lightweight and Highly rigid body structure
   • All-round gas damped suspension
   • Digital Console, Sporty Steering and short throw 6 gear shift

Variants and Prices

MARUTI A-STAR LXI	PRICE (Rs. In Delhi)
	Non Metallic	Metallic
MARUTI A-STAR LXI	3,45,033.72	3,48,141.34
MARUTI A-STAR VXI	3,72,018.84	3,75,126.45
MARUTI A-STAR ZXI	4,06,885.14	4,09,993.15

4. Tata Nano

   Nano is popularly called 'The People's Car'. Tagged to be world's cheapest car, Tata Nano is a rear-engined, four-passenger city car aimed primarily at the Indian market. It's a product of Tata's commitment and excellence. Tata is also providing some add-ons like alloys, rear spoiler & sunroof to make Tata Nano more stylish & attractive. There are many cost saving factors like the hazard warning light switch has been placed behind the steering wheel. Performance is controlled by a specially designed electronic engine management system. The company claims mileage of 17 plus kmpl in city and 20 plus kmpl on highway. The one lakhs magic can work wonders for you and your family.

   Features

   • Grey bumpers and interiors
   • 2-Spoke Steering wheel
   • Surprising Cost of Rs One lakhs

Variants and Prices

VARIANT	PRICE (Rs. In Delhi)
Nano Base/Standard/Basic	1,34,000
Nano CX	1,60,000
Nano LX	1,85,000

5. Maruti Zen Estilo

   Zen Estilo is another hatchback to put your money on. Exuberant styling and nicely worked out exteriors and interiors make it a smart choice. Gear shifting is smooth with the new transmission technology. Handling is exceptionally well in city as well as on the highways. New Head Lamp give Zen Estilo a jewel look , with Dual Tone interiors having matching seat Fabric , carpet and trim colors. Maruti has added better features in this car like Power Mirror, Rear Wiper with Defogger. Space is more than enough for small family. Get a new Zen Estilo in Rs 3.0-4.0 lakhs.

   Features

   • All new body line up in bean shape
   • 3 spoke Electronic Power Steering wheel
   • Advanced engine technology and DDLI ignition system

Variants and Prices

The stylish, dynamic and efficient Zen Estilo is available for sale throughout India having a price tag between Rs. 3.0-4.0 Lacs.

By : Saranjeet Singh

Bike Comparison - BATTLE OF SPEED - KARIZMA ZMR AND PULSAR 220

Car Comparison - BATTLE OF SPEED

KARIZMA ZMR AND PULSAR 220

Opting for a powerful can be a tricky task. With the biking giants like Hero Honda and Bajaj battling it out in the segment, speed freaks are left out with a bang – up choice. The launch of the second Avtaar of Karizma – the Beast has prepared grounds for a fierce competition with Bajaj Pulsar 220. Here is an informative comparison between the two speed machines.

Engine

There is not much to compare in the engine of both bikes with each having 200+ cc engines. While Pulsar has a 219cc engine, the Karizma ZMR has 225cc engine. Pulsar oozes out 20 bhp while ZMR 17.6 bhp.. Both use fuel injection system. These things are important considerations while choosing one.

Gear box: ZMR's gear shifting is smoother and it’s easy to find neutral while in Pulsar the down shifting isn’t as much smoother. Both Pulsar and ZMR use lever-type gear changer as in most sports bikes.

Suspension: ZMR's front suspension has Telescopic Hydraulic shock absorbers and rear has 5-step adjustable according to road conditions. In Pulsar 220, both tyres have the same 5-step adjustable suspension system but the Nitrox gas charged.

Instruments: Karizma ZMR has fully digital including the tachometer which has been designed in round shape under a horizontal digital display which looks very cool especially at night. With dual color illumination - tachometer lit in white while the rest in an orange back light the BIKE gives a perfect PRESUMPTUOUS look. While Pulsar has one LCD and one analog tachometer. Quality of switches is better in Karizma than in the Pulsar. The Instrument cluster is best looking part in Karizma ZMR. Insert the key and you are greeted with a long scrolling message which ends with "Bon Voyage Fly Safe".

Brakes: Both bikes have disc brakes on both the tyres but the in Pulsarrear brakes are poor and you might as well feel that these are like drum brakes as you have seen in erstwhile Bajaj Chetak scooter. Karizma ZMR's brakes are better with no chance of skidding.

Design: Bike appearance can be a personal and vary by what and how one looks at a bike. However Karizma’s styling and bodywork makes it a Masterpiece. A full body fairing & a bold ZMR logo on front wills urely catch your eye. Pulsar design and styling is inspired by Hayabusa (as in like the rear view mirror fitted on the fairing directly).

Maneuverability: Karizma ZMR has a large wheelbase is quite large making it stable around the corners and in straight roads too. Pulsar is too bulky when cornering. However both could be fine and at par in this regard.

Engine Noise: Pulsar engine note has similar feeling as from its the Pulsar family like the 150cc, 180cc and the 200cc. While ZMR's engine is quite refined with very little noise. Even at 90 kmph speed its noise is very low and refined with little to no vibrations.

Mileage: With improved Programmable fuel injection technology, Karizma ZMR has better fuel economy. Pulsar too gives around 42 to 47 kmpl of petrol. However looking for a 200+ cc bike, it can't be a benchmark but a matter of concern surely.

Self Starter and Battery: Both the bikes have excellent pick up. Karizma ZMR having Programmable FI technology is marginally better in terms of pick up.

Price: On road of Pulsar 220cc comes to around Rs. 86,000 in Delhi while Karizma ZMR comes at Rs. 91,000.

The exuberant features and sporty look ZMR is definitely a far more better option than Pulsar 220. A perfect blend of STYLING, TECHNOLOGY & SAFETY ensures top speed on roads. The Experience and Expertise of biking giant Hero Honda backs the new avtaar of the Beast. If looking for a stormy ride, ZMR's an excellent choice.

RIDE THE EXPERIENCE & RISE ABOVE ALL

Karizma ZMR

Displacement 225 cc

Transmission 5 speed

Maximum Power 17.6bhp @ 7000rpm

Brakes Disc on both

Price Rs 91,000

Features
>Sporty full body cowl

>Blistering Integrated LED tail light
>Fully Digital Console

>Exposed drive chain

Pulsar 220

Displacement 220 cc

Transmission 5 speed

Maximum Power 17.6bhp @ 7000rpm

Brakes Disc on both

Price Rs 86,000

Features
>Stylish body panels
>Fuel Injection engine
>Exposed drive chain

By : Saranjeet Singh

TOP TEN SELLING CARS IN INDIA – Acquire the Fantasy

FOLLOW THE “APSRRA” - GET A CAR.



Indian car market is now a POTPOURRI of AUTO GIANTS from different countries. The all important LEVY of customers has ANIMATED new technologies and EXUBERANT features. With a wide variety in each segment, you have to be INDISPUTABLE in your choice.



Here is an APASRRA to get you your DREAM CAR



A : All Your choice, P : Performance, S : Service Centers, R : Requirement, R : Resale Value , A : Availability of Accessories & Spares.

STEP 1 : All Your Choice Keep your priorities clear. You should know what you need. A powerful engine, a speed machine, a royal comfort, a running beauty or an efficient package of basics. Be affirmative and choose the segment.

STEP 2 : Performance Compare the performance of model variants of your ACCORD. The engine & mileage are important ATTRIBUTES.

STEP 3 : Service Centres Health check up points for your DREAM MACHINE should be frequently approachable. Regular check up enhances the life of your vehicle.

STEP 4 : Requirement Identify your requirements, budget & features you need. Choose ELEGANTLY & ANALYTICALLY between the wide variety. Don't end up buying a car not having features you ENJOIN and avoid spending extra money for no real purpose.

STEP 5 : Resale Value While shopping for your DREAM CAR a track of the resale value of the model. The expertise of dealers will be a MERIT.

STEP 6 : Availability of Accessories & Spares Easy reach to ACCOMPLICES and SPARES is also a benchmark. Genuine accessories should be easily available. So, just RUSH for the “APSRRA” and get your Fantasy Ride. . . .



Here is a List of TOP SELLING CARS IN INDIA to get you the BEST



1: ALTO - MARUTI SUZUKI - Crowned as the BEST SELLING CAR in INDIA.

ALTO is another MASTERPIECE from the engineers of MARUTI SUZUKI. ALTO is the ,most successful car in both light & heavy traffics. The compact look gives the AURA of a CRIUSER. Mileage of 18 km on urban roads sets a benchmark for other cars in the segment. A powerful A/C will freeze the interiors within 5 minutes. Enough boot space & enough space for luggage makes it an ELIGANT choice. The base model comes with A/C and the top model has additional features like power steering, cup holders etc. Easy to park and low maintenance drives ALTO to the TOP of SELLING LIST.

Features: Great Fuel Economy , Less Maintainence, Excellent Styling, Reasonable Price.

Price Tag : Rs 2.34 lakhs – 2.87 lakhs.



2: WAGON R - MARUTI SUZUKI - Wagon R Proves to be a Cheaper Fuel Car Delivering Good Mileage. A powerful yet silent engine simply defines the excellence of MARUTI SUZUKI ENGINEERS. Well flourished interiors and attractive external highlights with newly designed headlamps, tale lights and bonnet make Wagon R a CHARMING car. Safety features of Wagon R include crumple zones, ABS, anti-theft system make it a better buying option. Surprisingly enough leg room, front seats reclining back fully and the ergonomic design makes it a must buy car.

Features: Sporty Taillights, New Vibrant Colors, Superior Exteriors.

Price Tag : Rs 3.23 lakhs – 3.47 lakhs .



3:TATA INDICA V2 - Tata's Indica the Most Successful Diesel Hatchback Car.

An efficient engine delivers higher amount of torque providing smoother drive, with more response. MPFI engine provides good fuel economy and good mileage. Stylish exteriors & luxurious interiors make it a GRATIFIED package. Good pick up and compact look will get you drive it to your place.

Features: Stylish Lights, Space for Double Size Music System, Enhanced Safety Measures . Price Tag: Rs 3.28 lakhs – 3.57 lakhs.



4: HYUNDAI i10 - HYUNDAI- With Superior Technology, Roomy Interiors, The Stamp of Reliability i10.

i10 an affordable small car. The aerodynamic design, array of standard convenience and comfort features, and luxurious fittings draws the attention of car enthusiasts. Sharply raked windscreen and ellipsoidal glass redefine STYLE. Modern with dashboard integrated center console makes it the most pleasent small family car at an affordable price.

Features: Aluminum Engine giving a Whopping Power of 80ps@5200rpm, Improved Fuel Economy, More Engine Life.

Price Tag: Rs 3.50 lakhs – 5 lakhs.



5: SANTRO - Hyundai Motors - Made a Vigorous Impact on Indian Car Industry.

Santro has provided good power efficiency, reliability and long life for the vehicle in the form SANTRO. Good mileage and power along with suspension with stabilizers provides better control on the road. Distributor less ignition System (DIS) provides less emission and low maintainence cost. Much - improved low drag co-efficient of the wind tunnel developed shape ensures maximum fuel economy . Stylish exteriors, Comfort & excellent pick-up makes Santro Xing the most popular car in its segment.

Features: e-relax Technology, Superior Handling, Appealing Looks, Excellent Interiors.

Price Tag: Rs 2.70 lakhs – 4.2 lakhs .



6: MARUTI SWIFT - Quality of Power, Response and Fuel Efficiency Define The New SWIFT.

Available in three to five way door opening options the safety features of the car include air bags, electronic brake force distribution and even brake assist. Power steering and spacious interiors The next generation of Common Rail Direct Injection Technology gives the best performance . Great fuel economy good pick up with AC, Striking sporty look and Pleasured driving makes it a BEST BUY.

Features: Good Fuel Capacity, Less Noise, More Leg Space.

Price Tag: Rs 4 lakhs – 5.60 lakhs.



7: Maruti SX4 - With Macho and Aggressive Looks, The Tag Line "MEN ARE BACK" Holds True For SX4.

The cosmic expanse of the dash looks good. Switches and the steering wheel have been lifted off. Silver inserts on the fascia shiny look . The neatly integrated sound system and steering mounted controls mark the new generation car. Reclined and pushed back seat adds to driver comfort. Automatically locking doors, Climate control and alloy wheels make it LOADED like a WARSHIP. SX4 is a tough competition of other cars of its segment like Honda City. A must buy for ADVENTURE.

Features: Electrically Adjustable ORVM's, Stylish Ten Spoke Alloys, Glass Antenna, Spacious Boot Space.

Price Tag: Rs 6 lakhs – 6.5 lakhs.



8: INDIGO - TATA MOTORS - Bringing India to a World Stage.

TATA MOTORS launched India's first stretch limousine – INDIGO XL. A combination of comfort, luxury, style, and performance, Indigo XL competes with the cars in its segment. The Indigo XL is available in three body-styles - sedan, station wagon and estate, in petrol as well as diesel versions. It comes in four variants: the Grand Petrol, Classic Petrol, Grand Dicor and Classic Dicor. The Classic variants have just been introduced to the market. On the basis of its interior space, features and benefits, leather trimmings and lush interior facilities Indigo is a must buy to experience INDIAN luxury.

Features: Power Steering, Sporty Steering Wheel, Leather-wrapped Gear-shift Knob, Remote Release for Fuel and Trunk Lid.

Price Tag: Rs 5.3 lakhs – 7 lakhs.



9:INNOVA - TATA MOTORS- Combines the Qualities Like Space and Ruggedness.

Innova associated with SUV's along with comfort and handling normally seen in high priced cars. The Innova is currently available with two engine options, The 2.0 litre 4-cylinder fuel injected petrol engine, featuring the VVT-i technology, in order to boost mileage and the more popular engine option, the 2.5 liters 4 cylinder turbocharged common rail direct injection diesel. With an innovative design and 3 dimensional front Innova is the first choice in its segment. Get one to be blown at a speed of 120 kmph in a cruising drive.

Features: Sporty & Curved Monoform Design, Cutting Edge Aerodynamics, 3 D Front, Panoramic Windows.

Price Tag : Rs 6.80 lakhs – 7.2 lakhs.



10: COROLLA ALTIS - Proving To Be The Best Sedan Car in India.

Corolla Altis is very easy to handle. Better ground clearance makes bad roads not a problem anymore. Supercilious interiors and great engine performance makes it a DREAM MACHINE. Lavish exteriors bring you a feel of ROYALTY. The music system with 6-CD changer is excellent. Features like Headlamps washer embark the introduction of MODERN technology. Good mileage and a royal rest on a sofa in the middle of moving traffic makes COROLLA ALTIS simply FANTABOULOUS.

Features : New low & Wide Body, Sophisticated Flow Lines, Stylish Rear Combination Lamps, Headlamps Washer.

Price Tag : Rs 13 lakhs – 14 lakhs.
Labels: Automobile

By : Saranjeet Singh

Auto Expo 2010

The biennial event of Auto Expo in New Delhi, India is one event which has always created lot of buzz in the air especially with all the exciting car and bike launches which leading Auto Companies bring out into open.

Auto Expo in 2010 will be held between 5-11 January 2010 and promises to be bigger and better than all its previous editions.

The fact that India is the fourth largest commercial vehicle manufacturer and second largest two-wheeler manufacturing country in the world and a combination of robust production facility along with rapid advancement in technology is what makes India an ideal destination to host such a big Auto show.

Highlights of Auto Expo 2010:

• Vehicles
• Components
• Accessories
• Theme Pavilion
• Garage & Garage Equipments
• Oil & Lubricants
• Auto Electronics
• Insurance Companies
• Leasing/Financial Companies


Venue: Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, India
Dates: 5-11 January, 2010

I am so very excited in anticipation of all the auto models which will be displayed during the Auto Expo. I am sure you are too :-)

By : Saranjeet Singh

Surfindia Presentation

View more presentations from Surf India.

Booming Auto Sector

It is Cheers time for the Indian Automobile Industry as it recorded a jump by 24.3% in the total automobile sales figure of August, 2009 against the figures recorded in August, 2008. The findings were shared by Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), the apex body of automobile manufacturers in India.

This is surely a respite to the many who were fearing a dip in sales figures because of the global economic meltdown. However, thanks to the renewed consumer confidence, some amazing auto launches recently and the upcoming festive season the Indian auto industry is back on tracks.

I just hope that the industry which employs millions flourishes so much that it gives auto enthusiasts like me a reason to celebrate like I am about to do after signing off this post :-)

*image source: The Hindu Business Line

Hatchback Car Comparison - An Overview

Hatchback Car Comparison

India has witnessed a flurry of car launches in the hatchback segment within a short span of time.

Gone are the days when there were only a limited choices when it came to selecting your dream vehicle. Now there are plenty of options in front of a consumer to make that right choice after considering all important aspects such as daily usage, maintenance cost, car design, space, cost, etc.

Recent launches which hogged the limelight included the K-12M Engine powered Maruti Suzuki Ritz, the stylish and spacious Honda Jazz and the breathtaking Fiat Grande Punto. All these launches have given the Indian consumer a reason to celebrate as they can now choose the car they want without compromising on any aspect. Competition in the hatchback space has certainly brought the best out of the leading car manufacturers of India.

The festive season is coming up and the auto sales are sure to pick up during this time when the spendings on automobiles would see a rise especially around Diwali time.

So make your choice and make it wise . . .

Bentley Mulsanne

Owners of re-defining Bentley cars will all vouch for the strength of the Bentley brand. The cars from Bentley Motors are a fine specimen of excellent engineering and designing. The Bentley cars go through the highest standards of manufacturing and are one of the most sought after auto brand in the world.

Bentley Mulsanne is set to be bigger and better than any of its previous versions. Redefining luxury-driving the Mulsanne will set benchmark standards when it comes to performance and comfort.

The all new Bentley Mulsanne is expected to go on sale from June 2010 and will also be displayed in the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Awaiting more details on this fine beauty on wheels. . .

The Royal Thunder

Royal Enfield Thunderbird

I am in total awe of this amazing machine by Royal Enfield. The Thunderbird has always been my favorite motorcycle as it commands that ruthless aggression on road. Royal Enfield Thunderbird gives to its riders that ultimate feel of a great riding experience.

The powerful 350 cc Thunderbird has always caught my eye for its beautiful looks and amazing features. All throughout its existence the Thunderbird has continuously re-modelled itself around the latest markets trends. The newest Thunderbird TwinSpark is another popular variant from Royal Enfield which is set to win the hearts of many Thunderbird fans.

Time to Relish the Thunder

2009 Frankfurt Auto Show

A Popular Auto Event of The Year...

Frankfurt 2009 Auto Show, the much anticipated International Auto event of the year is fast approaching and all the major automobile manufacturers are gearing up to showcase the best of the auto models from their arsenal.

The Frankfurt Auto Show 2009 will be thrown open to public between 17-27 September. Leading auto brands like Porsche, Ferrari and BMW would be participating in this auto show.

The highlight of the event is expected to be the debut of BMW Green Sports car which would be an environment friendly launch from BMW.


Event Organizer:

Verband der Automobilindustrie e.V. (VDA)

Westenstrasse 61
D 60325 FRANKFURT AM MAIN
Tel: + 49 69 97507-0
Fax: + 49 69 97507-261, -305
Web site : www.iaa.de

Watch out for more on this event as it unfolds in September.

Hyundai i30 ~ What's In a Name?

What's In a Name?

Everything...

I'd say: A Brand Name is what makes or breaks it when it comes to the launch of any New Product. It is the 'X' Factor. The product in question here is the soon to be launched Hyundai i30 car in India.

Close on the heels of the immense success of Hyundai i10 and Hyundai i20 in India, the Hyundai i30 is sure to be better and more promising than its earlier siblings. Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) has rarely disappointed the Indian car enthusiast and has always come up with exciting car launches suiting the Indian requirements.

However, what I fail to understand is that why drag on to the fascination with the 'i' name when Hyundai could've branded each of its gems under exciting name tags other than in some boring arithmetic fashion i.e. i-10,20,30,40...

An i10 owner is bound to feel left out if the company keeps rolling out variants which make their purchase sound out of date.

I hope Hyundai, the second largest car manufacturer of India pays attention to this observation and no other car maker follows suit.

Name is the Game That Ought To have Been Set Right Here...

{Just a Thought Folks, Hope To Get Some Endorsements On This}

P.S.==> I am Sure the upcoming i-30 is another impressive addition to the portfolio of HMIL. It's Only The Name That Seems a Misfit Here.

Honda Jazz 2009

One Life, Why So Serious?

June 10 witnessed the entry of another stylish entry into the small car space called 'Honda Jazz'. The Euro-4 compliant Jazz is one Winner of a car from Honda Siel Cars India Limited (HSCI).

True to the catchy tagline: "One Life, Why So Serious", why be serious and enter the price debate that has revolved around the launch of the Honda Jazz.

Honda Jazz is definitely a value-for-money buy and a smart car equipped especially for city roads with hosts of features including the 'Magic Seats' (Rear foldable seats for added space).

With a powerful 1.2 litre i-Vtec Engine Honda Jazz has already had a good response from the Indian car buyer. The Jazz is priced between 6.98 lakh INR to 7.33 lakh INR and boasts of all the state of the art features which are common to cars of this segment.

So what are you waiting for? Go get Jazzedddd ... :-)

2009 Ferrari California

A mere glance at the beautifully designed 2009 Ferrari California is set to make your heart go racing with excitement.

The 2-door Ferrari California is one of the best sports car to have come out of the Ferrari drawing board. Ferrari California is larger than the Ferrari 430 in terms of space from the interiors. Donato Coco, the chief designer at Ferrari and main person responsible for rollout of the Ferrari California has done a wonderful job with this new machine.

Striking Features:

• 2-door retractable hardtop

• Top Speed of 310 kmph

• 453 horsepower DOHC V8 Engine

• 0-100 km/ in flat 4 seconds

• Engine start button mounted on the steering wheel

• Carbon ceramic brakes

Price: Approximately $ 200,000

Ferrari experience is definitely not to be missed and for people who can afford this beautiful luxury should go for it right away and for others they can just go awe in admiration when one passes them by ;-)

One Step Closer To The Tata Nano

Tata Motors on Tuesday, announced the finalisation of the initial one lakh applicants who would get to own the world's cheapest car.

A statement from the company read:
"Tata Motors is pleased to announce that it has completed the process to select the first 1,00,000 owners of the Tata Nano from among 2,06,703 final list of applicants, who had booked the car,"

All these one lakh owners will be price protected and will get the Tata Nano delivered at the prices announced at the launch on 23rd March. Tata Motors would start delivering the Tata Nano from the month of July and will expedite the delivery of the People's Car by ramping up its operational production unit at Pantnagar and the upcoming Sanand plant.

It would be an amazing experience to witness marvellous engineering on Indian roads, where the little Nano will fulfill the dream of the millions of Indians for whom owning a car was a distant dream.

Hats off to Mr. Ratan Tata :-)

Launch of Fiat Grande Punto

FIAT GRANDE PUNTO

Another day. Another car. Looks like this is the car launch season with so many compact cars hitting the Indian roads.

Move aside Maruti Suzuki Ritz, Honda Jazz...

Now comes the Fiat Grande Punto.

The Grande Punto by Fiat India Automobiles Limited is a premium B-segment hatchback car model and the first product to come out of the joint venture between Fiat (Italian Auto Maker) and Tata Motors (Indian Auto Maker).

Fiat Grande Punto, the beauty of a car was launched in a glittering ceremony in New Delhi on 17th June 2009.

"The launch of the Grande Punto marks a new milestone for Fiat in India as we bring the quintessentially Italian design to Indian shores."
Said Mr. Rajeev Kapoor, CEO, Fiat India Automobiles Ltd

Pricing Structure of Fiat Grande Punto:

Fiat Grande Punto
Variants	*Price (INR)
1.2 Petrol (Active)	3,99,000/-
1.4 Petrol (Dynamic)	4,66,000/-
1.4 Petrol (Emotion)	5,06,000/-
1.4 Petrol (Emotion Pack)	5,61,000/-
1.3 Diesel (Active)	4,85,000/-
1.3 Diesel (Dynamic)	5,16,000/-
1.3 Diesel (Emotion)	5,56,000/-
1.3 Diesel (Emotion Pack)	6,11,000/-

*Ex-showroom Delhi prices

It is now an interesting battlefield in the hatchback space where major players like Maruti, Fiat, Honda, Hyundai and Skoda are battling for the top slot.

Honda CB 1000R - Wrooom Wrooom

Honda unveils the CB 1000R

Honda has launched its dazzling Honda CB 1000R in India.

With the launch of the Honda CB1000R, Honda has redefined super-biking and demonstrated marvelous engineering in front of the Indian bike lover. Equipped with a powerful 1000cc engine Honda CB 1000R is set to woo the Indian bike lover with its stunning features which makes it stand out in the 1000cc segment.

Prominent Features of Honda CB 1000R include:

• Breathtaking engine performance
• Eye catching design
  
• Compact and lightweight 998cm³ liquid-cooled fuel-injected engine
• 'Artistically' designed engine side covers featuring new nickel-plated bolt head look
• Independent ignition & fuel injection mapping for each cylinder
• ‘Mass forward’ design concept
  

Price: Rs. 9,50,000/- (Ex-Showroom)

2009 Nissan Cube

~Nissan Cube

Watch out for this stunner from Nissan Motor Company Limited, one of the leading automobile manufacturers in the world. 2009 Nissan Cube is packed with many a punches first and foremost in terms of its beautiful design which is sure to woo many a hearts. Equipped with a 1.8 l DOHC 4-cylinder the Nissan Cube has the Nissan intelligent key with push button ignition, an interface system for iPod amongst score of other features.

Key Features of 2009 Nissan Cube Include:

• Vehical Dynamic Control (VDC)
• Traction Control System (TCS)
• Cruise Control
• Sporty Interiors
• Advanced Air Bag Systems (AABS)

In addition the look of the Cube can further be enhanced by picking from a range of more than 40 additional accessories.

Approx. Price: $ 14,000

{* Tentative price and can vary, please check with the local dealer}

Hyundai Santa Fe in India

Upcoming Hyundai Santa Fe

Hyundai Santa Fe, a premium Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) will soon be launched in India. Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) will soon launch its newest product in the form of an SUV which will be sportier and packed with exciting features. Hyundai has already had success on the Indian roads with their earlier successful launches like the much liked Hyundai Santro, Hyundai Accent, Hyundai Getz, Hyundai i10 and Hyundai i20.

Hyundai Santa Fe, the newest addition to the impressive Hyundai portfolio will pack many a punches to give its rivals in the SUV segment a run for their money.

Features of Hyundai Santa Fe:

• Keyless Entry
• Automatic Headlights
• Antilock Braking System
• Electronic Stability Control
  

Expected Launch: Somewhere at the end of 2009
*Price: Rs. 18-22 Lakh

(* Tentative prices and can vary)