India’s car market leader Maruti Suzuki India Limited, launches its next generation new compact sedan, Swift DZire, in diesel and petrol variants. The petrol version of the more compact and revamped Swift Dzire is priced between Rs 4.79 lakh and 6.19 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) and the new Swift Dzire diesel models are carrying price tags between Rs 5.80 lakh and Rs 7.09 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

Maruti Suzuki Swift DZire

The sub-4000 mm long new Swift DZire is wider, taller, has a larger wheel base. The new Swift DZire is more fuel efficient by almost 7 per cent in petrol and 8 per cent in diesel models.

The refreshed Swift DZire avatar has 3995mm length, 1695mm width, which is 5mm wider than the existing Swift Dzire model. In addition, the newly launched Swift Dzire has a height of 1555mm with a larger wheel base of 2430mm, which is 40mm larger than the existing model.  The all new Swift Dzire offers tighter turning radius of 4.8m and has ground clearance of 170mm. The optimized boot now measures 316 litres.

The front fascia of the revamped Swift Dzire now sports a uniquely designed bumper and grill, carries Suzuki’s characteristic U-Line theme, powerful fog lamps, and character lines on bonnet. Other modifications on the exteriors include ORVM mounted turn signal indicators, characteristic vertical lamps, motion theme alloy wheels and a wrap around cabin wind screen. The rear looks sportier with rear positioned antenna, integrated spoiler and trapezoidal tail lamps. The strong shoulder line and U-line theme is carried from the front for visual continuity.

The company enhanced the fuel efficiency of the new Swift Dzire. The petrol variant offers fuel efficiency of 19.1 km per litre (6.7 per cent higher than the existing Swift DZire at 17.9 kmpl).Similarly, the diesel variant returns a 7.8 per cent improved fuel efficiency of 23.4 kmpl (as compared to 21.7 kmpl than the existing Swift DZire).

The new  4-speed Automatic Transmission on the VXi trim (VXi AT) gives a fuel efficiency of over 17.4 kmpl.

The all new Swift Dzire petrol variant with 5-speed gearbox is powered by the all new K-12M VVT engine, which delivers a peak power of 87 Ps @ 6000 rpm and peak torque of 114Nm @ 4000 rpm.

The diesel variant of Swift Dzire with 5-speed gearbox is powered by a D13A DDiS intercooler turbocharger engine delivering maximum power of 75 Ps @ 4000 rpm and torque of 190 Nm @ 2000 rpm, said the company.

Photo: New Swift DZire

The top speed of the new compact Swift Dzire is 160 kmph. The petrol Swift Dzire zooms 0 to 100 kmph in 12.6 sec and the diesel version zips 0 to 100 kmph in 14.8 sec, said the company.

The refurbished Swift Dzire has a colour lines up of Pacific Blue (new), Glistening Grey (new), Bright Red Arctic, White Clear Beige, Silky Silver and Midnight Black
 
Introductory prices of petrol (ex showroom Delhi)

PETROL                   LXi                        VXi                                    VXi-AT                     ZXi
Price                            Rs 4.79 lakh        Rs 5.32 lakh                 Rs 6.54 lakh            Rs 6.19 lakh

DIESEL                      LDi                          VDi                             ZDi
Price                              Rs 5.80 lakh        Rs 6.31 lakh            Rs 7.09 lakh

Related posts:

1. Maruti Suzuki unveils the next gen all new Swift variants
2. Maruti Suzuki hikes prices of Maruti Cars
3. Maruti Suzuki launched limited edition of Swift

New Ford Fiesta RS WRC

Ford unveiled the all new Ford Fiesta RS World Rally Car which will adorn the car in the 2012 FIA World Rally Championship, the company said.

Ford World Rally Team director Malcolm Wilson and Ford of Europe motorsport chief Gerard Quinn unveiled the livery for the eye-catching Fiesta RS WRC at the Autosport International Racing Car Show in Birmingham, motorsport’s traditional start-of-season showcase event.

The Fiesta RS World Rally Car, with its four wheel-drive transmission and 1.6-litre Ecoboostengine will once again spearhead Ford’s challenge in the 2012 and 2013 championships.

The car, based on the best-selling Fiesta road car, claimed a clean sweep of the podium in both the first and final rounds of its debut season last year. Finland’s Jari-MattiLatvala and co-driver MiikkaAnttila, who topped the world rankings for special stage victories in 2011 and won the final round of the championship in Rally GB last season, are confirmed as team leaders for 2012.

Related posts:

1. Ford Motor India launches Fiesta Classic at Rs 5.56 lakh
2. Ford to launch all-new global vehicle at Delhi Auto Expo 2012
3. Ford Fiesta’s 100,000th unit rolls out

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., (M&M) unveiled four world class products from the SsangYong stable namely Rexton, Korando E, Actyon Sports & XIV-1 Concept for the first time in India at Delhi Auto Expo 2012.

Mahindra SsangYong Actyon Sports

The four new SsangYong vehicles namely – the Rexton, the Korando E, Actyon Sports and the XIV-1 Concept – were unveiled by Dr Pawan Goenka, President, Automotive and Farm Equipment Sectors, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. & Chairman, SsangYong Motor Company and Mr. Yoo-Il Lee, President, SsangYong Motor Company.

REXTON
The Rexton off-roader is powered by a 2.7 litre turbocharged common-rail diesel engine under the hood which is good for 184 PS of maximum power and a massive 402 Nm of torque.

The all terrain Rexton is expected to hit the domestic market in the next six to seven months, say company sources. Rexton SUV has a spacious and luxurious cabin and offers three rows of seating making room for seven occupants. Rexton’s second and third row of seats can be folded to make a vast luggage area.

Rexton will be loaded with safety features like tyre pressure monitoring system, enhanced parking brake technology, forward collision warning and avoidance system, ABS with EBD, ESP and SRS airbags as standard equipment.

Apparently, the year 2012 see a stiff competition from various auto makers in India coming out with a series of SUVs. Maruti Suzuki is launching its concept SUV XA Alpha, Premier new compact SUV Rio, Renault Duster, Ford EcoSport, revamped Tata Safari Storme and Toyota’s new Fortuner apart from Mahindra Ssang Yong Rexton. All these models were displayed at the Delhi Auto Expo.

Also, Rexton SUV is available in five-speed manual gearbox and an automatic gearbox.

KORANDO E
Also on the display is the future electric car of SsangYong Motor, the Korando E. Korando E is purely an electric car concept model based on the Korando C, and is an attempt to present the stereotype of small SUV electric cars by combining SsangYong Motor’s design DNA, specialized in SUVs and the future-oriented identity of electric SUVs.

ACTYON SPORTS
The all new Actyon Sports pick-up is expected to open up a whole new market in India. The Actyon Sports offers the cabin comfort and luxury of a premium SUV complete with a sunroof, RDS & Bluetooth audio, rear view camera, hinge sprung tailgate and a trip computer. Not to mention functions such as ESP and dual airbags fitted to make Actyon Sports a genuine alternative to a conventional 4×4.

Actyon Sports is powered by a 2.0 Active Diesel Engine complying with Euro 5 emissions standards and offering highly competitive economy. CO2 emissions have been reduced to 186g/km, representing a nine per cent improvement over the engine’s previous performance. This impressive efficiency is achieved without any compromise in performance. Peak torque of 360Nm is maintained across a wide range of 1,500 to 2,800rpm, while 190Nm is delivered at a near-idle 1,000rpm.

Mahindra SsangYong Sports XIV-1

XIV – 1 CONCEPT
The new compact crossover concept from Mahindra SsangYong – the XIV-1 Concept has attributes of a B-segment SUV with the affordable running costs, claims the company. The XIV-1 concept is a showcase for SsangYong’s design and engineering.

Related posts:

1. Mahindra to unveil Ssangyong SUVs Rexton, Korando, electric cars at Delhi Auto Expo
2. Mahindra SsangYong Rexton, electric car Reva NXR to roll out in India by Oct-Nov
3. Toyota to unveil new compact car concept at New Delhi auto expo

(From LtoR) Peter Honegg, MD & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India with Bernd Maylander (F1 Safety Car Driver) at the launch of new SLS AMG Roadster at the Auto Expo 2012.

Mercedes-Benz India launched India’s most powerful open top vehicle: the SLS AMG Roadster and all new M-Class SUV at the Auto Expo in Delhi. The German auto major also presented Concept A-Class on the occasion.

The open top SLS AMG Roadster is powered by 6.3 Litre V8 engine, the SLS AMG Roadster delivers 0-100 in 3.8 seconds, said the company. While it looks like a beauty, SLS AMG Roadster does ride like a beast. The eight cylinder V8 engine produces rumbling 571 horse power at 6800 rpm with a maximum torque of 650 Nm at 4750 rpm. It can go from 0-100 km/h in under four seconds (3.8s) and has a top speed of 317 km/h.

The SLS AMG Roadster exudes graceful dynamism and magnetic allure. The purist, athletic design immediately captures the attention. With a body that gracefully boasts of its sleek lines and shapely contours the SLS AMG Roadster exhibits it’s supremacy over others. The long bonnet further to the automatically extending rear aerofoil, long wheelbase, wide track and short projection appends to the appearance. The lightweight construction, combined with sensuous open air driving pleasure exudes its lively sporty presence.

The SLS AMG Roadster’s interior continues the breathtaking design idiom of the exterior, and awakens associations with an aircraft cockpit: prominent stylistic features include the dashboard in the shape of a wing section and the air vents with adjustable, cruciform nozzles reminiscent of jet engines. The extended centre console of matt, solid metal and the new E-SELECT lever in the shape of an aircraft’s thrust control are also design features adopted from the world of aviation.

Mercedes-Benz M-Class

Debashis Mitra, Director, Sales & Marketing, Mercedes-Benz India with Farhan Akhtar presenting the all new M-Class at the Auto Expo 2012

Mercedes-Benz also presented the all new M-Class in India, the benchmark for luxury SUV. Launched in the global market about six months back, the new M-Class will be locally assembled at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Pune.

Continuing in true M-Class tradition the third generation of this vehicle sets new benchmarks in SUV design, technology and performance. Pioneering the interpretation of a contemporary SUV, the NEW M-Class sports a powerful exterior and an interior featuring high-quality details.

While its exterior is clearly a restrained evolution of the previous M Class models, its interior takes a somewhat new direction, adopting the gently sculpted look of Mercedes’ sedan interiors. A new-generation V-6 makes 302-horsepower in the ML 350, while a revamped turbo-diesel makes 240 hp but a more relevant 455 lb-ft of torque.

The new M-Class has been envisioned with a much sleeker frame. Though the vehicle is significantly larger than its predecessor it does not make it look bulkier. There is an overall increase in the length and width of the car with the height being dropped. New engine hood design and LED lights have made the front of the car look sportier; the new tail lights have given the car an elegant feel.

A true off-roader the New M-Class has been fitted with technology that would help customized settings for engine performance, automatic transmission, anti-lock braking system (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and Electronic Traction System all at the touch of the off-button on the console. The ease of technology makes the New M-Class a joy to ride off the beaten road.

The New M-Class is packed with safety technology. It has nine strategically located air – bags that ensures the safety of its passengers upon collision. Additionally it is built with a  PRE-SAFE technology that help prevent such instances.

Protection of the environment is a key task of every individual, the New M-Class has been built with this thought in mind. The vehicle has been built with the ECO start-stop function, which reduces fuel consumption and emissions- by automatically switching off the engine during traffic jams or traffic signals.

Other technology that has been packed into the new generation include the ATTENTION ASSIST, that alerts the driver on detection of drowsiness on longer trips; an Active Parking Assist with integrated PARKTRONIC technology, and a new rearview camera that increases comfort and provides a real safety plus.

The fresh, vibrant product design was presented through the Concept A-Class; the hatchback which will offer design cues to future Mercedes-Benz development. It is expected to be priced at a premium alongside the Mini which also makes its debut during the auto show.

Related posts:

1. Mercedes-Benz India to showcase A-Class Concept at India Auto Expo 2012
2. Mercedes-Benz launches New E-Class Coupé in India at Rs 56.38 lakh
3. Mercedes-Benz launches new E-Class car Cabriolet in India

General Motors India is showcasing 15 production and concept vehicles at the 11th Auto Expo.  It included the all new Tavera Neo3, the next-gen SUV Captiva 2.2 AT, Chevrolet Volt, an electric vehicle, Beat BEV, hatchback battery electric vehicle  and LPG variant of Spark.

The vehicles are being displayed on Chevrolet’s stand under the three themes of Chevrolet Next, Chevrolet Technology & Innovation and Chevrolet Performance, said the company.

“We are proud to be introducing our latest products, which offer industry-leading technology, performance and designs, as well as our environmentally friendly transport solutions in India for India,” said Lowell Paddock, President and Managing Director of General Motors India. “Our leading position at India’s foremost auto show reinforces our company’s commitment to this important market.”

Chevrolet Next

At the Chevrolet Next section, GM is introducing a range of new models that will be launched in India in 2012.

Chevrolet Tavera Neo3

Chevrolet Tavera Neo3

GM is presenting the upgraded Chevrolet Tavera in new avatar Neo3, which combines the handling and comfort of a passenger car with the performance and ruggedness of an MUV. It includes Chevrolet’s twin-port grille and a bigger Chevrolet bowtie emblem in front as well as in back. Larger shimmering crystal-effect clear lens headlamps with integrated indicator lamps enhance the bold and stylish front look while increasing visibility.

The highest variant of the Chevrolet Tavera is offered with a dual-tone body color combination. Selective exterior color finishes are combined with contrasting gold bumpers and side trim. Extra chrome finish has been applied to the grille and fog lamp housings to boost the model’s premium appeal. Chevrolet’s “advancing diamond” pattern seamlessly blends side surfaces with bumpers for a stunning visual appeal.

The Tavera Neo3’s classic, harmonious interior has a premium look, with a beige and dark grey combination usually seen in more luxury-oriented vehicles.

The new Tavera Neo3 is available with a 2.5-liter direct injection insta-torque turbocharged engine (BS3) and an all-new 2.0-liter common rail direct injection diesel engine that is BS4 emission compliant. Both the engines operate quietly and have excellent low-end torque, making them excellent in heavy traffic, along with excellent pick up.

The Tavera Neo3 has low maintenance and running costs, with long service intervals, highly durable components and a long-life maintenance-free battery. Because of the Tavera Neo3’s high percentage of local content, replacement parts are competitively priced and readily available through Chevrolet’s nationwide distribution network.

Chevrolet Captiva 2.2 AT

Chevrolet Captiva 2.2 AT

The Chevrolet Captiva was launched in India at the 2008 Auto Expo. GM India will soon launch the next-generation Captiva 2.2 AT. The new model includes a powerful 2.2-liter engine along with a six-speed automatic transmission.

It also has a fresh new sporty and muscular exterior design and a jet-black interior. Among the new comfort and convenience amenities are cruise control; a dual-row heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system; an electric parking brake; rain-sensing wipers; and a stylish sunroof.

Alongside the Camaro Convertible, Corvette Stingray Concept, Cruze racing car and Captiva 2.2 AT, GM is also showing visitors the Chevrolet Cruze special show car and Chevrolet Beat that was the winner in the Adventure Category of the Raid de Himalaya 2011.

At the Chevrolet Next section, GM is also showing the all-new Chevrolet Sail hatchback and the  Chevrolet MPV as well as the Chevrolet Beat Diesel, India’s most fuel-efficient car, and the Chevrolet Beat Music Edition.

Chevrolet Technology & Innovation

At the Chevrolet Technology & Innovation section, GM is highlighting several of its latest global and local advanced technology achievements.

Chevrolet Volt

Chevrolet Volt

The Chevrolet Volt is the world’s first mass-produced electric vehicle with extended range technology, providing the benefits of an electric vehicle without the range limitations usually associated with vehicle of such kind.

The internationally-acclaimed model uses electricity as its primary source of power with energy stored in a 16-kWh, T-shaped lithium-ion battery pack that powers the electric drive unit in all-electric mode for up to 64 kilometers.

When the battery’s original energy has been depleted, an on-board range-extending engine-generator, which can be powered by regular petrol or E85 ethanol, generates electricity to power the car for hundreds of additional kilometers.

The main benefits of an E-REV include energy diversification, reduced oil consumption and reduced emissions.

Chevrolet Beat BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle)

Chevrolet Beat BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle)

GM India is leading a “tailored for India” demonstration program of battery electric vehicle (BEV) technology with the Chevrolet Beat BEV, which was introduced in June 2011. Powered by a 300-cell lithium-ion battery with approximately 16 kWh of energy capacity, the 270-kilogram battery can power the Beat BEV for at least 98 kilometers under normal driving conditions.

The liquid-cooled battery can operate in temperatures ranging from approximately -20 to 45 degrees, with charge times of less than four hours using a 240V outlet and around eight hours using a 120V outlet. Power from the battery is transferred to the wheels through a single-speed drive unit and an electric motor that produces approximately 111 kW of power.

The demonstration vehicle is showcasing the effectiveness of the new technology to consumers. Learnings from the program will strengthen GM’s core vehicle electrification competencies, including batteries, electric motors and power electronics and controls, and charging.

Chevrolet EN-V

Chevrolet EN-V

The Chevrolet EN-V, which is short for Electric Networked-Vehicle, is GM’s vision for the future of urban commuting. The EN-V is a two-seat electric vehicle that weighs less than 500 kilograms and is about 1.5 meters in length. Its small size and great maneuverability mean a parking lot can accommodate five times as many EN-Vs as typical automobiles.

The body and canopy of the EN-V are constructed from carbon fiber, custom-tinted Lexan and acrylic, materials that are more commonly used in race cars, military airplanes and spacecraft because of their strength and lightweight characteristics.

Chevrolet Spark LPG

Chevrolet is also bringing out the LPG variant of Spark. It incorporates segment-leading sequential injection technology, which provides a spirited driving experience. As an added advantage, LPG is more economical than standard petrol. The Spark LPG comes with a three-year/100,000-kilometer standard warranty, an industry first in India’s mini-car segment.

Chevrolet Performance

The Chevrolet Performance section includes a range of legendary performance products from GM.

Chevrolet Camaro Convertible

Chevrolet Camaro Convertible

The new Chevrolet Camaro Convertible combines great looks and performance with advanced technology and surprising efficiency. It has been precision-engineered for speed and efficiency. The 2SS model on display at the Auto Expo is equipped with a 6.2-liter V-8 engine that generates 426 hp at 5,900 rpm and 420 Nm of torque at 4,600 rpm. Safety is paramount. The Camaro Convertible includes high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel in key areas of its structure, along with six air bags, safety belt load limiters and the front passenger air bag deployment suppression detection system.

Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Concept

Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Concept

Chevrolet has delivered a futuristic vision of technology and design with the 50th Anniversary Corvette Stingray Concept. The Stingray Concept was developed as an internal design challenge to combine classic Corvette cues with surprisingly high-tech features, modern materials and a striking new appearance. The car is well appointed, with a clamshell hood, scissor-style doors, ergonomic seats, a rearview camera with night-vision enhancement and a high-performance hybrid powertrain. Interactive touch controls allow the driver to customize the power and efficiency of his or her ride and share it with friends via the in-car camera system and advanced telemetrics.

Chevrolet Cruze Racing Car

Chevrolet Cruze Racing Car

The Chevrolet Cruze racing car, which has won the Manufacturer’s Championship at the World Touring Car Championship (WTCC) for the past two years, is also on display. The WTCC is one of only three FIA world championships, along with Formula One and the World Rally Championship. The WTCC features cars that are close to regular production products. The racing version of the popular Chevrolet Cruze sedan features a wide track, close-to-the-ground stance, stiff body structure and premium aerodynamics.

Related posts:

1. Chevrolet showcases new Tavera Neo3, Captiva 2.2 AT SUV among 15 production, concept vehicles at Auto Expo
2. 2010 Auto Expo: GM India to display 6 Concept vehicles
3. Mahindra showcases SsangYong series Rexton, Korando E, Actyon Sports & XIV-1 Concept at Delhi Auto Expo

Maruti Suzuki XA Alpha

India’s leading car manufacturer Maruti Suzuki launched compact SUV XAα (XA Alpha) at the Auto Expo 2012 signalling the company’s plans to enter new segments.

XAα, one more compact SUV eyeing the urban users after the Ford EcoSport, combines ruggedness and ‘muscle’ – the traditional attributes of a Sports Utility Vehicle – with elegance, a certain finesse and compactness.

In XAα, the ‘Alpha’ represents trendiness and newness that the youth connect to. The ‘A’ signifies that this compact, 4 metre long concept, is designed for customers wishing to enter the utility vehicle segment. The ‘X’ denotes Cross-over category.

Presented in glistening Lava Red, the XAα is the show stopper, occupying centre stage at the market leader’s Auto Expo pavilion this year.

Together with Ertiga, to be unveiled on January 6, the XAα signals Maruti Suzuki’s plans to expand into the utility vehicles space.

While continuing to strengthen its compact car portfolio, the company will create new categories in the utility vehicle segment as an option for existing Maruti Suzuki customers as well as for new ones.

The company will back this foray with the best in technology. While expanding its popular range of K-series petrol engines, the company will build on the success of its diesel offerings.

With India on course to becoming one of the leading automobile economies in the world, Maruti Suzuki has lined up a busy product plan to drive the growth and meet diverse customer needs in a fast maturing market.

Since the last Auto Expo in 2010, Maruti Suzuki has launched a range of new vehicles. By launching a new WagonR, a new Swift and a new Alto K-10 the Company has been able to maintain its clear leadership, despite several new competitor models in the compact car space.

Unveiling the Concept XAα, managing director and CEO of Maruti Suzuki, Mr. Shinzo Nakanishi said: “India is set to become one of the top automobile markets of the world. This may become evident as early as the next Delhi Auto Expo. Maruti Suzuki will lead India’s automobile growth and evolution by strengthening its compact car portfolio, entering new segments and creating new product categories across fuel options”.

Related posts:

1. Maruti Suzuki set for a world premiere of first compact MPV Concept at Auto Expo 2010
2. Maruti Suzuki unveils Ertiga at Auto Expo, to hit Indian market by March this year
3. Maruti to unveil Suzuki SX4 hatchback at Auto Expo 2010

Ford New Eco Sport

US auto manufacturer Ford previewed its all-new global mini sports utility vehicle (SUV), EcoSport ahead of the 2012 Delhi Auto Expo. The EcoSport SUV, which is Ford’s best selling model in South American countries namely Brazil and Argentina besides Mexico and Venezuela, is expected be priced between Rs 6 lakh and Rs 8 lakh in the Indian market though Ford did not give a launch date. However, the EcoSport is expected to go into production line in H1 of this calendar year.

The EcoSport SUV, aiming at the urban users, is the second of eight new global models that Ford plans to launch in India by the mid of this decade.

The EcoSport is powered by 1-litre, 3 cylinder EcoBoost petrol engine offering the same power and performance level delivered by a traditional 1.6 litre petrol engines. Ford claims that the EcoSport is a fuel efficient SUV with CO2 emission levels at 140g/km. EcoSport’s turbocharged mill will deliver 120 PS of power and 170 Nm of torque. The new, award-winning EcoBoost engines take the turbocharge and direct injection technologies found in advanced diesel engines and pushes them even further. The result is a more compact petrol engine that delivers power to rival a traditional 1.6L petrol engine, but uses up to 20% less fuel. And that’s good for you and the environment.

Ford did not reveal the details of the EcoSport, which is based on the B-segment Fiesta platform, especially the interior features and other performance details besides the price at the time of the preview saying more would be revealed at the time of market launch.

However, EcoSport is expected to rule the roads keeping in view the stature and price range at which Ford is going to roll out the SUV in India. Even though the company is tightlipped about the specifications and other features of EcoSport, the high-mounted trapezoidal grille and elongated headlights, strong body, aerodynamic design and high ground clearance are good enough to attract the attention of any car lovers.

EcoSport sports advanced body design with built-in safety features, says the company. The all new EcoSport delivers plenty of space, height and robust ability. Distinctive rear swing outdoor with spare wheel enhance its beauty.

The black side pillars of EcoSport give the impression of one long sleek piece of glass down the side.

With a sleek and edgy approach to its styling the EcoSport is aimed at young, urban buyers looking for a little more than a hatchback and a little less than a traditional SUV.

Related posts:

1. Ford drives in global Fiesta in India at Rs 8.23 lakh
2. Ford Motor India launches Fiesta Classic at Rs 5.56 lakh
3. Ford to launch all-new global vehicle at Delhi Auto Expo 2012

It’s revamping time for Japanese auto companies. After Honda, Toyota also prepares for a recast of its fast selling SUV, Fortuner, which has already sold over 2.5 lakh units in more than 60 countries since its launch in 2005. The lighter and modified Fortuner’s launch is expected to be in the first quarter of 2012, say reports.

Toyota Fortuner

Though the company has not revealed the price tag of the new Fortuner, it is expected to be out at the Delhi Auto Expo in January. However, market reports claims the price would be between Rs 23 lakh and Rs 25 lakh.

The modified Fortuner will be powered by the same 3-litre D-4D engine delivering 169 bhp@3600 rpm and 35 kgm@1400-3400 rpm. However, Toyota offers the choice of a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission for Fortuner. When the manual transmission model is more fun to drive, with smooth gearshifts, the automatic transmission is not so swift but a feasible in city traffic conditions.

The Fortuner reaches India in its new avatar with clear lens head and tail lamps, a bigger scoop on the bonnet, indicators on the ORVMs, head lamp washers,  a spoiler with an integrated brake light, a different grille and chrome door handles.

The new Fortuner sheds its weight and becomes lighter by about 90 kg when it shifts from the all-wheel-drive feature 4×2 version. This is expected give the new Fortuner a livelier to drive and will surge forward under acceleration much better.
 
Toyota reportedly plans to effect changes in the interiors of the new Fortuner like keyless entry, leather seats, leather on the steering wheel and gearshift knob, steering-mounted audio and multi information display controls, chrome handles, a nice DVD-based, touchscreen entertainment system with Bluetooth, refreshed dials, a reversing camera and an overall air of comfort.

Related posts:

1. Toyota launches the all new Innova & Fortuner at Auto Expo
2. Toyota ‘FORTUNER’ launched in India
3. Ford unveils new global SUV EcoSport in India, to hit Indian roads in six months

Lumia 800 and Lumia 710

The Nokia Lumia 710 will start selling today in Taiwan alongside the Nokia Lumia 800. The Nokia Lumia 710 will then reach stores in Singapore, Hong Kong, India and Russia in the next seven days and continue its global roll-out over the coming weeks.

Estimated retail price is 270 EUR, excluding taxes and subsidies and availability will be via operator partners, retailers and open channels depending on local situation.

Nokia also planning to launch its Lumia series – Lumia 800 and Lumia 710 in a week’s time in the Indian market. Lumia 800 is priced at Rs 29,999 and Lumia 710 at Rs 19,999 for the Indian markets.

The Nokia Lumia 800 comes with a 8 megapixel camera with dual LED flash, and has 16 GB internal user memory and 512 MB programme memory.

The Lumia 710, has a 5 megapixel camera with LED flash, 8 GB storage capacity with 512 MB RAM and comes with exchangeable back covers.

Both Lumia 800 and 710 are touchscreen devices run on Windows Phone 7.5 ‘Mango Operating System’.

The colourful, affordable Nokia Lumia 710 was designed to make the Nokia Lumia experience accessible to more people around the world and at launch was widely praised as the best Windows Phone experience at is price point. It combines the powerful social and Internet experience of Windows Phone with the ability to take pictures in almost any conditions and share with friends in seconds, as well as access to thousands of the most popular apps, including exclusive Nokia services.

The Nokia Lumia 710 can be personalised with a range of colours, including white and black front finish and a choice of five inter-changeable back-covers available to purchase separately.

Both products provide a fresh listening experience and are the first output of the exclusive long-term partnership between Nokia and Monster, intended to introduce a range of premium audio accessories to reflect the outstanding quality and bold style of the Lumia range.

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