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Royal Enfield Himalayan transformed into a gorgeous Scrambler: Video

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MotoKraft Customs, a motorcycle customization outfit based out of Delhi, has customized the Royal Enfield Himalayan on-off road motorcycle into a gorgeous scrambler. Called the SCRAM212, the motorcycle dumps the tall stance of the stock Himalayan for a more squat, compact look. The mechanicals have been kept mostly untouched and it’s the cosmetics that have received most attention.

The first thing that will strike you about the SCRAM212 is the paint scheme, done up in a dual tone, black-white colour. The glossy finish of the paint scheme combined with tan leather elements in various parts of the motorcycle is quite a classy touch. The seat and the part of the frame holding it have been shortened, and this give the rear of a motorcycle a truncated, minimal look. And it’s gotten 17 kilograms lighter.

Other changes include a free-flow exhaust system exiting from the right hand side of the motorcycle, LED headlamp and tail light, a custom bash plate, and 18-inch front and 17-inch wheels shod with knobby off-road tyres. The stock, long travel suspension of the Himalayan is retained on the custom motorcycle but the new wheels have reduced ride height quite significantly.

Royal Enfield Scram212 1

The stock engine has also been retained. The Royal Enfield Himalayan is powered by a 411cc, long stroke four stroke engine that puts out 24.5 Bhp of peak power and 32 Nm of peak torque. Fuel injection is standard. A 5 speed manual gearbox is standard. The air-oil cooled motor has received many internal changes in the Version 2.0 Himalayan that was launched in India a few months ago. This custom bike does use the older engine with the carburetor though. What this also means is that this custom motorcycle does not offer dual channel ABS, which is now standard on the stock Himalayan.

Royal Enfield Scram212 2

The extensive changes to the Royal Enfield Himalayan were necessitated by the various quality issues the first-gen model was plagued with. The Himalayan V2.0 is said to be a much improved product, both in terms of quality and reliability. Sales have been on the upswing. The stock Royal Enfield Himalayan with dual channel ABS is priced at Rs.
1.79 lakhs, ex-showroom Pune. Currently, the Himalayan is India’s most affordable on-off road motorcycle with no direct competition. The next cheapest ADV motorcycle on sale in the BMW G 310GS, which is priced at a hefty Rs. 3.5 lakhs, ex-showroom Delhi.

Also Read: Car & motorcycle wraps in India: Legality, problems & tips


Tata Harrier To Maruti Zen Micro SUV: 10 brand-new SUVs launching next year

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India’s growing SUV market seems to be in no way wanting to slow down. With 2018 slowly coming to an end, we can take a look at the at 2019 and take a look at the brand new SUV offerings that are set to arrive in 2019. In this post, let’s take a look at these upcoming all-new SUVs for India that are set to launch in 2019.

Tata Harrier

2019 Tata Harrier Suv Featured

The Tata Harrier is perhaps the most hyped SUV to ever roll out of a Tata Motors production line. The all-new Tat Harrier was first shown at Auto Expo 2018 and then revealed in production guise as the Harrier a few weeks back. Tata Motors has started accepting bookings for the Harrier, which will rival the likes of the Hyundai Creta and the Jeep Compass. The new Tata Harrier SUV will make use of a platform first developed by Land Rover and will also draw power from the same engine as the Fiat while making use of the Creta’s automatic gearbox as one of its transmission options. The Harrier arrives in India in January 2019.

Tata H7X

Tata H7x Render
Via IAB

The H7X will be the seven-seater version of the Tata Harrier when it arrives by the end of 2019. The H7X is based on the same H5X concept that spawned the Harrier. Expect the H7X to feature a similar striking design as the H7X. It will also make use of the same engine options as the Harrier, though we do expect an upgrade in power. The H7X is expected to arrive by the end of 2019.

Maruti Zen Micro SUV

India’s largest carmaker Maruti is set to venture into the world of Micro SUVs in the Indian market. The upcoming micro SUV from Maruti is expected to bear the Zen name and will rival the Mahindra KUV100. The Maruti Zen micro SUV will sit alongside the carmaker’s hatchbacks as Maruti looks to capitalize on the growing demand for small SUVs in India. The SUV will be based on the Future S concept showcased at Auto Expo 2018. The Initial engine options will be the 1.2-litre K Series petrol engine, which some sort of electrification set to arrive in the following years.

Hyundai Carlino/Styx

hyundai carlino cartoq render

The world of sub-4-metre-compact SUVs from India is set to get a new entrant in the form of the Carlino-concept based production SUV that could bear the name Styx. The Hyundai Styx will sit under the Creta in the carmaker’s lineup, and it will bear a design similar to the Creta, though with a few more modern Hyundai touches like the cues found on the Kona including the split headlamps. The Carlino will make use of a 1.4 -litre diesel engine from the i20 and the carmaker’s first use of a turbocharged petrol engine. The Hyundai Styx is expected to hit Indian roads in the first half of 2019.

Hyundai Kona

The Hyundai Kona was first showcased last year and since then gone on sale in a few international markets across the world. The Kona will sit above the Creta and under the new Tucson. The new Kona features an aggressive design with a large grille and split headlights. The Kona is expected to be powered by a tweaked version of the Creta’s drivetrain. Hyundai is already testing an electric variant of the Kona. The regular fossil-fueled Kona will arrive in India in the second half of 2019.

Kia SP Concept

Earlier this year at Auto Expo 2018, Hyundai’s premium car brand Kia unveiled what its first Indian model would be like – the SP Concept. The Kia SP concept-based SUV will bring in turbocharging to larger engines in the Indian Hyundai family which will be used in future Hyundais. The SP concept-based SUV will be priced at a premium compared to the Hyundai Creta and brings with Kia’s every increasingly impressive design language lowered. The Kia SP concept-based SUV is expected to arrive on Indian roads in the second half of 2019.

Mahindra S201

mahindra s201 render

Mahindra launched two new large UV products this year in India in the form of the Marazzo MPV and more recently the Alturas G4 premium 7-seater SUV. Next year Mahindra will concentrate on the smaller SUV segment and will launch the S201 in early 2019. The S201 is a re-engineered version of the Ssangyong Tivoli that has been shortened to slip under the 4-metre mark for better government subsidies. The S201 will be powered by Mahindra’s new 1.5-litre diesel engine found on the Marazzo.

Mahindra S202

The S202 is the extended wheelbase version of the S201 seen above and underneath is, in fact, a Ssangyong Tivoli. Like the recently launched Alturas G4, Mahindra is expected to rebadge its subsidiary’s compact SUV for its use in the Indian market. The S202 is expected to use the S201’s drivetrain. Mahindra’s version of the Tivoli is expected to arrive in India later in 2019.

Nissan Kicks

Japanese carmaker Nissan unveiled the India-spec Kicks SUV last month. The Kicks which will arrive in India in Early 2019 and will see Nissan foray into the compact SUV segment for the second time. At its launch, Nissan only unveiled details about the dimensions and a few features about the India-spec Kicks, which is larger than the SUV that bears its name abroad. Powertrain options are not known, though it is expected to use the same 1.5-litre petrol and diesel engines found on the Renault Duster.

Renault Duster

The second-generation of the Renault Duster is only expected to launch in India in the second half of 2019, around two years after it was unveiled to the world at the 2017 Paris Motor Show. The new Renault Duster is expected to bring a host of feature upgrades on the inside and sport a revised new look on the outside. The next-gen Duster is expected to continue with Renault’s 1.5-litre petrol and diesel engine options for the current Duster, though we could expect a few changes in terms of performance to help them cope with stricter BS-VI emission laws that come into effect in April 2020.

Also Read: Car & motorcycle wraps in India: Legality, problems & tips

Honda City to WR-V: Honda cars with year end discounts of up to Rs. 1 lakh

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Honda is reputed for making quality cars and the badge itself enjoys a good brand value in India. Various cars by the company have been good sellers like the City and more recently, the new Amaze. Now carmakers have always come up with discounts to lure more people towards their dealerships and Honda is no different.

Currently, the Japanese automaker is offering big discounts on its range of cars. If you are planning to buy a Honda vehicle in a month’s time, here is a list of the discounts which are offered by the manufacturer.

Brio

Discounts: Approx Rs. 20,000

The Brio is the most affordable offering by the company in India. The entry level hatchback offers good space and a refined, powerful engine. The soon to be discontinued hatchback is powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine which produces 88 Bhp power and comes in both manual and automatic gearbox options. Talking of discounts on offer, it is currently being offered with a free 1st year insurance on all variants. There are no cash discounts and exchange offers as of now.

Jazz

Discounts: Approx Rs. 70,000

The Honda Jazz is a premium hatchback but it never became a sales success, despite having some class leading features. The Jazz has both petrol and diesel engines on offer. The 1.2-litre petrol engine produces 90 Bhp power with 110 Nm of torque and comes with either manual or CVT gearbox as options. The 1.5-litre diesel produces 100 Bhp power and 200 Nm of torque. The diesel variant is offered with a 6-speed manual gearbox.

The car is being offered with a free 1st year insurance along with Rs. 25,000 cash discount, the cash discount only being given on diesel varinat. Apart from this, there is an additional exchange bonus of Rs. 20,000 on offer.

Amaze

Discounts: Free 5 year warranty

Having already left behind other competitors like the Hyundai Xcent and the Tata Tigor, the Amaze has become the best selling car for Honda currently. It is powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine which produces 87 Bhp power along 110 Nm of peak torque, and is sold with both manual and CVT gearbox options. The diesel engine on the Amaze is a 1.5-litre unit churning out 100 Bhp power and 200 Nm of torque. The Amaze also gets the segment-first diesel CVT variant which gets power from a 1.5-litre engine producing 80 Bhp power and 160 Nm of torque.

The Amaze is currently available with Honda’s Pro Care package which tranlstes into a total 5 Year Warranty including add on extended warranty. Along with this, there is also a 3 Year Honda Care Service AMC Package on offer.

WR-V

Discounts: Approx Rs. 32,000

Honda WR-V is a crossover hatchback, a category which includes other cars like the Maruti Suzuki S-Cross. It has both petrol and diesel engines on offer, with the 1.2-litre petrol unit churning out 90 Bhp power and 110 Nm of torque and paired to a 5-speed manual gearbox. The 1.5-litre diesel engine produces 100 Bhp power and 200 Nm of peak torque, and comes paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox. Currently, Honda is offering the WR-V with 50% off on 1st year insurance along with an additional exchange bonus of Rs. 20,000.

City

Discounts: Approx Rs. 62,000

honda city resale value

The City is probably Honda’s most iconic car in India. The Hyundai Verna and Maruti Ciaz rival gets powered by both petrol and diesel motors. The 1.5-litre petrol engine produces 117 Bhp power and 145 Nm of torque, and is offered in both manual and CVT automatic options. The 1.5-litre diesel engine churns out 100 Bhp power and 200 Nm of peak torque, and comes with only a 6-speed manual transmission. Currently Honda is offering free insurance on the car for 1 year. There is also an exchange bonus of Rs. 20,000 along with Rs. 10,000 accessories on offer.

BR-V

Discounts: Rs. 1 lakh

The Honda BR-V is a 7-seat crossover and offers a good deal of refinement and comfort. The engine and gearbox options on the car are similar to the ones offered on the Honda City. It is available with the highest discount among the other Honda cars here, totaling upto Rs. 1 lakh. This include an exchange bonus of Rs. 65,000 along with free 1st year insurance and accessories worth Rs. 16,500.

 

Common Offer on all  Honda Cars: 

Honda is also offering a full expense paid trip to London and Paris. This offer is available till 30th November and is eligible on all Honda cars bought during the offer period.

Source

 

Also Read: Car & motorcycle wraps in India: Legality, problems & tips

Watch this CRAZY Maruti Omni Turbo doing burnouts [Video]

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The Maruti Omni, a staple school van for kids growing in the 90s, is the last car you’d expect getting big in the  stunt circuit. But this is exactly what’s happening here. A Suzuki Omni, fitted with a turbocharged rotary petrol engine is going pedal to the metal, and doing spectacular burn outs. The video below will show you more.

Video courtesy FastPerformanceVideos

As the video indicates, the Omni starts out slow and goes real big with the donuts. If you observe closely, the  heavily modified passenger van gets a roll cage, which indicates that it’s modified for stunting use. This change  apart, there’s little to say that this is a high performance van meant to pull crazy donuts.

The Maruti Omni, a car that’s been in production for over 34 years in India, is on its last legs. Come 2019 and  tighter safety norms, the Omni will be put out of production. A replacement is yet to be announced. The passenger van  that’s sold here gets petrol, LPG and CNG variants. Emissions too are getting tighter in April 2020, and Maruti has  no plans to make the passenger van compliant with the Bharat Stage 6 emissions, another reason why its going out of  production soon.

The Maruti Omni has continued with its basic shape unchanged for nearly 35 years, and this is the single most  remarkable fact about this car. High on utility, the Omni finds use in multiple ways – from performing as a passenger  car to hauling cargo. Over the years, the Maruti Omni received minor feature changes even as the engine kept getting upgraded to meet tightening emission norms.

New Maruti Suzuki Omni India

However, the overall engine and driveline layout design has also been unchanged. Just like it rolled out in 1984, the  passenger van is powered by a 796cc, 3 cylinder F8D engine available with petrol, LPG-Petrol and CNG-Petrol trims.  This motor puts out 34 Bhp-59 Nm, and is mated to a four speed manual gearbox. This is another unique facet about the van as it’s the only production car in India to be sold with a 4 speed gearbox. Prices of the Maruti Omni start from Rs. 2.93 lakhs, making it one of India’s most affordable cars.

The reason for the Maruti Omni’s enduring success in the Indian market aren’t difficult to figure. Utterly reliable,  low on maintenance and very affordable to run, the Maruti Omni continues to be a hot seller. The van averages about  6,000 units each month, making it one of Maruti’s greatest best sellers to be produced. The versatile Omni finds  multiple uses in India – as a passenger car for families, school vans and cargo vans. It’s sold with 5 seat, 8 seat  and cargo variants.

Also Read: Car & motorcycle wraps in India: Legality, problems & tips

Akshay Kumar to Ranbir Kapoor: 13 examples that show Bollywood loves Range Rovers

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The Range Rover Vogue is among the most expensive and feature laden SUV on sale in India. Its base variant starts at Rs. 1.74 crore, which by no means is cheap. The Range Rover Vogue has a place in the garage of many Bollywood celebrities too. One interesting thing about this Rangie is that while the Bollywood stars may own a number exotic cars, their choice of ride for daily travel is often the Range Rover. let’s now take a look at the various celebrities who own a Range Rover Vogue.

Alia Bhatt

Alia Range Rover
Upcoming Bollywood star Alia Bhatt is often seen using a Range Rover Vogue for her daily travel. She uses the long-wheelbase (LWB) model, which carries a price tag of Rs. 2.1 crore on road. Her SUV is equipped with a 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel engine, that produces a good 240 Bhp of power and 600 Nm of peak torque.

Malaika Arora Khan

Malaika Range Rover

B-Town Diva is often seen using her Rangie during her daily gym trips. She also owns a long wheelbase Range Rover Vogue. The actress bought the SUV around Diwali last year. The Range Rover Vogue LWB variant is shipped in India via the CBU route that to some extent explains it’s high price.

Akshay Kumar

Akshay Kumar Range Rover

One of the fittest actors of Bollywood, Akshay Kumar has also owns a Range Rover Vogue. He also has a large number of expensive and ultra-luxurious cars in his collection. Among them, the Rolls Royce Phantom is the most premium vehicle. However, for regular travel, the actor prefers his Rangie among other cars.

 Jacqueline Fernandez

Jacqeline Range Rover

Sri Lankan beauty Jacqueline Fernandez is the owner of an older generation Land Rover Range Rover Vogue. Her Rangie is different from the many others on road as it has been fitted with a sports kit, which takes up the look factor up by several notches.

Tusshar Kapoor

Tushar Kapoor Range Rover

Another actor to be often seen  around in a Land Rover Range Rover Vogue is Tusshar Kapoor. His Range Rover Vogue is powered by a 3.0-litre V6 engine that churns out 240 Bhp of power and  600 Nm of torque. His SUV has a white paint scheme, which is said to be among his most preferred colours.

Kareena Kapoor Khan

Bollywood glam lady Kareena Kapoor is a proud owner of a last-gen Range Rover Vogue. She is often spotted in her white painted SUV while hitting the gym.

Anushka Sharma

Anuska Range Rover

Anushka Sharma has been using the Range Rover Vogue as her daily ride since some time now. To let you know, her Rangie is similarly specced as her beau Virat’s Range Rover Vogue. It has a 4.4-litre V8 diesel engine that puts out 335 Bhp of power and 740 Nm of peak torque..

Ranbir Kapoor

Ranbir Range Rover

Another couple to have the same cars on this list apart from Virat-Anushka is Ranbir-Alia. While we have already told you about Alia’s Rangie above, Ranbir Kapoor’s Range Rover Vogue has a dark blue paint shade. It is powered by a 3.0-litre V6 engine that produces 250 bhp of power along with 600 Nm of peak torque.

Ajay Devgan

Bollywood hunk Ajay Devgan has owned a Range Rover Vogue for a long time now. He has an older version of the popular SUV, which has a white-black dual-tone paint job. However, being an older generation vehicles does not mean that his Rangie is less comfortable but ratherr can give many modern SUVs a run for their money.

Sonu Nigam

One of the most melodious singers of India, Sonu Nigam also owns a Range Rover Vogue. His set of wheels sport a dark blue paint scheme and looks quite good.

Bobby Deol

Bobby Deol is also among the B-Town celebrities to own a Range Rover Vogue. His owns a last generation Vogue and also, he recently purchased a latest-gen Range Rover Sport.

Saif Ali Khan

Saif Ali Khan Range Rover

The third couple on this list to own a Range Rover Vouge is Saif-Kareena. Saif Ali Khan has a latest generation model of the Range Rover Vogue and it has a white paint job.

Arbaaz Khan

Arbaaz Khan Range Rover

Last on the list, Arbaz Khan has owned a older generation of the Range Rover Vogue since quite a time. Many say that Arbaaz also gifted a Rangie to his younger brother Salmaan Khan after the success of Dabangg. In the picture above, the actor can be seen in a Range Rover Vogue SE.

Image sources- 12345678111213

Also Read: Car & motorcycle wraps in India: Legality, problems & tips

KTM Duke 125 launched: More powerful than 150cc Bajaj Pulsar

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Austrian motorcycle manufacturer KTM has launched its most affordable bike in the form of the 125 Duke. The KTM 125 Duke is priced at Rs 1,18,163 ex-showroom (Delhi). The 125 Duke from KTM comes with ABS as standard and is the most expensive 125 cc motorcycle currently on sale in India.

Ktm 125 Duke Abs Black

Powering the all-new KTM 125 Duke in India is a liquid-cooled 124.7 cc single cylinder engine with dual overhead camshafts. The engine of KTM 125 Duke produces 14.3 Bhp at 9,250 rpm and 12 Nm of torque at 8,000 rpm. The engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox.

The KTM 125 Duke features a Trellis frame chassis and an aluminium swingarm with 43 mm inverted front forks handling suspension duties up front and a mono shock with 10-step adjustment dealing with the rough roads at the rear.

Braking duties on the KTM 125 Duke are handled by a 300 mm disc up front and a 230 mm unit at the rear. The new 125 Duke sits on 17-inch alloy wheels which are shod with 110/70 and 150/60 MRF REZ-FC tyres at the front and rear respectively.

Ktm 125 Duke Abs White

The new KTM 125 Duke is 1,993 mm long, 789 mm wide and 1,083 mm tall. The wheelbase of the 125 Duke is 1,366 mm long and the bike has a ground clearance of 175 mm. The seat of the 125 Duke sits 818 mm above the ground and the fuel tank can hold 10.2-litres of petrol. The KTM 125 Duke has a kerb weight of 148 kilogrammes.

In terms of design, the 125 Duke resembles its larger naked sibling, the 200 Duke, with its split headlamp design and a stubby tail section along with the sculpted fuel tank and the trellis frame setup. The KTM 125 Duke is offered in three different colour options – orange, white, and black, though all three feature the same distinctive orange painted alloy wheels.

Ktm 125 Duke Abs Orange Side

Speaking on the occasion Amit Nandi, President (Probiking) at Bajaj Auto Ltd. said

KTMs are always about high performance, edgy design and a thrilling ride. The 125 Duke will be the new stepping stone into the KTM brand for riders starting out in the world of racing.

The KTM 125 Duke does not have any rivals in India as the 125 cc segment is ignored by Indian motorcycles manufacturers as a segment for performance motorcycles. In fact, with the output from its 125 cc engine at 14.3 Bhp, the 125 Duke is, in fact, more powerful than the 150 cc Bajaj Pulsar, which is rated at 14 Bhp. However, the Bajaj Pulsar 150 is a lot cheaper though, with a starting price of just around Rs. 65,000. The Bajaj Pulsar is aimed at city commuters.

If the Duke 125 is successful, it could spur more motorcycle makers to launch such offerings. Like its siblings – the Duke 200 and 390 – the 125cc version is built at Bajaj Auto’s Chakan factory in Pune. While KTM has been exporting the Duke 125 for many years from India, this is the first time that the baby Duke has been introduced in the Indian market.

Also Read: Car & motorcycle wraps in India: Legality, problems & tips

Car & motorcycle wraps in India: Legality, problems & tips

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Wraps are fast becoming the easiest way to modify your vehicles as they don’t require any mechanical changes and can be easily removed if the owner no longer likes the changes made after some time. However, there still quite a few frequently asked questions asked about wraps, that Youtuber Dream Drive Destiny gives answers for in a video that can be seen below.

The questions and answers are mostly applicable to vehicles of all types  – motorcycles, scooters, cars and SUVs.

The Youtuber, who had his Bajaj Dominar 400 recently wrapped in a black and white camouflage wrap (which he later removed after it was deliberately damaged by someone else) answers many questions that we have with regards to wraps especially their legality and safe ways to wrap your bikes. So let’s talk about the questions that he answers.

Are Wraps Legal?

The first question that the youtuber answers is the perhaps the most common one, ie: Are wraps legal on vehicles in India? The answer to that question, if we strictly stick to the letter of the law, as the youtuber does is No. Wraps allow people to easily change the colour of vehicles which can lead to big issues if vehicles fall into the hands of thieves. However, other options that don’t change your vehicle’s colour are definitely not a problem, and some manufacturers like Maruti already offer them.

Is there any way that you can wrap your vehicle and avoid legal issues?

The answer to that is yes, though it does come with one major caveat. The youtuber states that those who really want to wrap their vehicles need to remain with the original colour of the vehicle. He states that those who wish to wrap their vehicles should stick with the colour option mentioned on the registration certificate to ensure that the vehicle passes any inspections by eager cops looking to catch offenders. If the colour is same or similar, the cops are not likely to bother with you. We agree. Whether a wrap in the same colour is legal or not is a question that a cop would not want to bother with, and is something that will be unclear till the Motor Vehicle Departments of states or courts decide. So chances are, you will be safe (though in legal grey area) with a wrap of the same colour.

Are Wraps Durable?

Motorcycle Wrap India

The answer to the question depends on the rider/driver of the car or bike being wrapped. However, let’s be clear on one thing, wraps do not last as long as a new paint job as they are made from materials – usually vinyl – that suffer from more wear and tear over time compared to paint. Depending on the way you maintain your ride and the quality of the material used. This is especially true in India’s rather extremely dry, cold or wet climate. Also if you go for long rides or road trips and tie up some extra luggage to your vehicle of choice, the chances of damaging your wrap are quite easy.

Will you have to re-register your vehicle if you apply a wrap?

The answer to the question is No. Wrapping your vehicle does not require you to re-register your bike or car. However, changing your vehicle’s colour by repainting does require a change of your RC and a trip to the RTO. A wrap can easily be removed if there is any issue, however, a new paint job most certainly can’t be removed, which is why you need to get you RC changed as well.

Where should you get your wrap done and what wraps should you use?

Getting a wrap done is not an easy job and most require the use of blades to cut the material being used. The Youtuber advises owners to employ the services of a well-known customization house to get wraps done to ensure your vehicle’s pristine paint does not get scratched by errant blade strikes. While the Youtuber recommends 3M, those looking for solutions will be able to find reputed wrap shops in India everywhere. Just take a look at their previous work if possible. Remember, a bad wrap can end up ripping your paint when removed, so avoid them at all costs.

Also Read: Car & motorcycle wraps in India: Legality, problems & tips

This new Jeep render looks Radical!

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Jeep and India go all the way back to 1947, the year our country got its Independence. For those of you wondering how, that is the year when Mahindra started its automotive business and got a license from Jeep to use its designs and name in India. Both the companies have come a long way since, with Jeep making an official entry into the Indian car scene back in 2016. Moving on to now, we have brought a render which shows a futuristic Jeep concept in its full glory. Take a look.

Jeep Concept Freedom Render

The massively cool car you see above is actually a fan made render and is officially called the Jeep Concept Freedom. It’s an artist take on the future of Jeep’s vehicle and we couldn’t agree more. It has the typical seven slated Jeep grille along with the solid butch lines which embed a family DNA into the concept, sealing it off as a Jeep. Now the design is a bit on the wild side, but that’s what a concept is supposed to be, a wild take on cars.

Jeep Concept Freedom Render Side

Talking of design, the massive front air intakes and sleek headlamps take the cake. The long bonnet, raked windshield and that high sprung stance all make it more of a performance oriented SUV. Lamborghini Urus challenger, we say. While those massively big wheels, small glass area and sloping roof line may not be very ergonomic and practical, they for sure look very cool. You would appreciate the level of detailing done on this render. Notice the cuts and lines on the body, which end up perfectly in sync with other body panel rather than abruptly. It gets independent dual coil spring suspension setup on all wheels hinting towards its off road prowess.

Jeep Concept Freedom Render Rear

If this is what is supposed to be the future of Jeep, we are completely smitten by it. Though it’s a fan render, we want Jeep to take notice and at least include some of the radical design cues into their regular cars. In India, the best selling Jeep model is the Compass, which even left behind the Mahindra XUV500 in sales for some time. Though a new generation model is still some time away, it would be really great to see a similar styled Compass on our roads. Once again, Hats off to the creativity of the render designer.

Source

Also Read: Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 vibrates LESS than a Yamaha R3, reveals 'cool drink test' [Video]


Tata Harrier Seven Seater (H7X) to debut at Auto Expo 2020

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Indian carmaker Tata Motors will be launching its much-hyped Harrier SUV in January 2019. Now, a report by Autocar India is claiming that the seven-seat version of the Harrier will officially be unveiled at Auto Expo 2020. The seven-seater codenamed H7X is not expected to keep the Harrier (H5X) name when it hits the streets at the start of the next decade.

Tata H7x Render
Via IAB

The H7X seven-seater SUV from Tata Motors is expected to share most of its parts with the smaller five-seater Harrier. The H7X will be the new flagship of the Tata Motors lineup for India and will make use of Tata’s OMEGA platform that underpins the Harrier. The OMEGA platform from Tata Motors is a derivative of the D8 architecture developed by the carmaker’s British subsidiary Jaguar Land Rover. Derivatives of the D8 platform are also used by the first-gen Range Rover Evoque and the Jaguar E-Pace.

The all-new Tata seven-seater SUV will also make use of the same 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine from Fiat that is used in the Jeep Compass. The diesel engine dubbed Kryotec by Tata Motors is expected to arrive in 140 hp BS-IV compliant guise in the Harrier.

However, under the hood of the seven-seater H7X, the Kryotec diesel will be compliant with BS-VI emission norms that also go into effect in 2020. The H7X’s engine is also expected to get a boost to around the 170 hp (the engine cranks out 171 Bhp in the Jeep Compass) mark when it arrives under the bonnet of the seven-seater SUV. The increase in power is expected to arrive in the Harrier when new BS-VI emission norms go into effect in April 2020. Like the Harrier, the H7X will use the same 6-speed manual and automatic transmission units with the latter being the torque converter automatic borrowed from Hyundai.

Autocar India claims that the new H7X will be 62 mm longer at the rear than the Harrier bringing its overall length to 4,660 mm. This will help the H7X accommodate the two extra passengers it will carry compared to the Harrier. However, both the length of the wheelbase in the Harrier and H7X will remain the same. The H7X is also expected to feature a design similar to the one on the Harrier.

The new Tata seven-seater SUV will be priced at a slight premium above the Harrier. Autocar India expects the H7X to bear an on-road price tag between 16 and 21 lakhs depending on the variant chosen.

Also Read: Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 vibrates LESS than a Yamaha R3, reveals 'cool drink test' [Video]

Automatic Cars In India Under 10 Lakhs : Alto to Vitara Brezza

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Automatic cars are fast gaining popularity in India and the major reason for this has to be the affordable AMT / AGS transmission set-up. As the name suggests, these are automated versions of the same manual gearbox that powers the car and manufacturing these are cheaper than conventional automatics. You do have as many as 25 different car models under Rs 10 lakh that come with an optional automatic – the range includes both AMT / AGS as well as torque convertors and CVT set-ups.

We have filtered down the list for all those car models that can be bought for less than Rs 10 lakh on-road. Lets have a look:

1) Automatic Cars In India Under 10 Lakh: Datsun redi-GO AMT

Price: Rs 4.38 lakh onwards (on-road, before discounts)
Discounts: 1st Year Insurance + 1 Gram Gold Coin (800 cc) / 2 Gram Gold Coin (1 Litre) + Rs 10K Exchange Benefits + 3 Year Road Side Assistance (October)

India’s most affordable automatic car comes from Datsun and is available in two versions of T(O) and S. At an on road price of about Rs 4 lakh (considering the discounts), the redi-GO AMT offers shattering value for money considering the features it comes equipped this. This includes power steering, air-con with heater, drive computer, audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, driver side airbag, front power windows, keyless entry etc.
The redi-GO looks pretty nice for a small car and with generous dimensions, manages to stand out in the crowd of hatchbacks on the road. It even gets slim DRLs or day time running lights up front! While the manual version comes with both 800cc and 1000cc engines, the AMT gets the latter. Its good for 68 PS of power and 91 Nm of torque and has a rated fuel economy of 22.5 kmpl. We like the way this AMT set-up works and this combined with a light steering and high seating makes this a very sorted urban car. It gets a creep function which allows the car to move ahead by releasing the brake – very useful for slow moving traffic. As expected, you can also take over the automated shifts by shifting the lever to the left while in D mode, something that the more expensive Renault KWID lacks.
On the inside, the redi-GO gets an all black color theme that is broken well by silver inserts at places. Practical points include open space above the glove box, under the air-con and multiple cup holders. That said, all four doors do not offer any storage space at all. However Datsun claims the redi-GO has the roomiest interiors for the segment. Overall, the redi-GO is a very good automatic urban car that can handle the occasional highway duties too.

Pros:

  • Most affordable automatic
  • Modern interiors
  • Easy urban car (tall seating, good visibility, light steering)
  • Peppy and fuel efficient

Cons:

  • High speed manners
  • Interior fit and finish
  • Limited network, poor resale value
  • Cost cutting evident (single front wiper, non retractable belts)

Sales:
July: 1623
Aug: 1674
Sep: 1658

Latest update: Limited edition model launched in Sep 2018

2) Automatic Cars in India Under 10 Lakh: Maruti Alto K10

Price: Rs 4.65 lakh (on-road, without discounts)
Discounts: Upto Rs 20,000 cash and upto Rs 35,000 exchange bonus

Maruti’s most affordable automatic car is the Alto K10. This current generation K10 got a major facelift in 2014 and even four years down the line, looks fresh and appealing for this price. Not as tall as the KWID or the redi-GO, but in smaller towns, the K10 is quite popular. The AMT version gets the same 1.0-litre three cylinder engine as the MT one. This one puts out 67 PS of power and 90 Nm of torque, more or less similar to that of the other two cars in the same price band. However, it feels a tad smoother at idle and on the move. The AMT too seems to have been calibrated better here in the K10, making it perform the best here. Fuel economy too is similar to the other cars.
The cabin of the Alto K10 is a weak point. It isn’t as modern as the rivals and the AMT gear lever takes up a lot of space which means this version comes without cup holders up front – storage space is surely lacking here.
In terms of space, the Alto K10 cannot match up to the rivals either. Likewise, the AMT is available in one version only and this comes without features like front fog lamps, keyless entry, body coloured outside mirrors and even side moulding. ABS too is missing. This is one area where the rivals score higher points. The only point going in favour of the Alto K10 is Maruti’s widespread network and long term peace of mind factor.

Pros:

  • Peppy and efficient
  • Peace of mind, resale value
  • AMT works better than rivals
  • Best high speed manners here

Cons:

  • Cabin design is outdated
  • No storage space due to AMT lever console
  • Limited cabin design
  • Missing features (fog lamps, keyless entry etc)

Sales : Alto K10 (not available separately, is always combined with Alto 800)

Latest update: Alto K10 Plus launched in March 2017

3) Automatic Cars in India Under 10 Lakh: Renault KWID

Price: Rs 4.85 lakh onwards (on-road without discounts)
Discounts: 50% Off on 1st Year Insurance + Rs 15000 Exchange Bonus + 4 Year Warranty on Select Model (October)

renault kwid

The KWID is the most expensive entry level automatic hatchback here but it also the one that offers the best bang for your buck. Lets stat with the design first ; the SUV inspired theme works well and gives this car best road presence among the lot. It is wider and longer than the redi-GO and the Alto K10 and this along with the longest wheelbase means cabin space is generous. The limited editions look cooler too, thanks to exterior sticker work and even jazzed up wheel covers. Talking of which, the KWID’s interior is a level up as compared to the other two cars and we aren’t just talking about the design but features on offer. A touch screen infotainment system, a full LCD speedometer console with a driver info display and even a rear arm-rest have never been heard of before in a car in this segment.
Its a little known fact that the redi-GO and KWID share the same engines, both the smaller 800cc and the larger 1000cc. The latter is the one that powers the AMT model and like the redi-GO, offers more than ample performance. The KWID is the only AMT car in India that does away with a conventional gear lever but makes use a rotary knob to shift between D (Drive), N (Neutral) and R (Reverse). While this frees up cabin space, it does not allow the drive to change gears manually. 
A highlight about the KWID is its ride quality which is better than the redi-GO and the Alto K10. All factors combined, though the KWID is the most expensive car here, it is worth the extra monthly EMI

Pros:

  • SUV inspired design works well
  • Feature loaded (touch screen, LCD speedo etc)
  • Best ride quality of the lot
  • Peppy and efficient

Cons:

  • Rotary AMT knob removes manual override
  • Most expensive here
  • Small tank (28 litres), largest turning radius
  • Most expensive here!

Sales:
July: 5015
August : 5541
September: 5529

Latest Update: 2018 edition with added features 


4) Automatic Cars in India Under Rs 10 Lakh: Maruti Wagon R

Price: Rs 5.42 lakh onwards (on-road, before discounts)
Discounts: Upto Rs 40,000 cash and upto Rs 30,000 exchange bonus

2018 Maruti Wagonr Limited Edition

One of the oldest brand names on sale in the segment is still enjoying massive popularity. The tall boy WagonR is the second largest selling car under Rs 5 lakh in India and though the all-new model is due for a launch next year, the current one continues to sell well, thanks to massive discounts and popularity in the fleet segment. The design has aged well and frankly, this is not a good looking hatchback. The top end model (earlier known as StingRay) does look far better with a bolder stance, projector lamps, gunmetal grey alloy wheels and a little body kit. The AMT option is offered in four trims of VXI, VXI Plus, VXI Option and VXI Option Plus.

The car surely is practical and this is evident the moment you step inside the car. Not only is Ingress and egress good, you get a feeling of space. Dashboard design is not beginning to feel a bit old but the new limited edition brings in a fresh air. Stylish seat covers, styling kit with wooden finish and a double DIN audio system do help a bit. 
Comfort is good if not excellent though the car lacks features like a digital display for speedometer console, touchscreen interface or rear air-con vents. The WagonR gets the same 1.0-litre petrol unit as the Alto K10 and the Celerio with both MT and AMT options along with a factory fitted CNG kit – this makes it very popular in the commercial segment. The engine itself is peppy, efficient and reliable. However, if you are in the market for a car in this segment, either look at the Santro or wait for the all-new Wagon R due in early 2019.

Pros:

  • Value for money
  • Factory fitted CNG, AMT option
  • Fuss free and easy to drive
  • Proven product, reliable in the long run

Cons:

  • All-new model is due early next year
  • Lacks features that rivals offer
  • Design is certainly not attractive anymore
  • Interiors now feel dated for the price

Sales:
August: 13658
September: 13252
Wagon R: 10655

Latest update: Limited edition launched in October 2018

5) Automatic Cars in India under Rs 10 lakh: Maruti Celerio

Price: Rs 5.48 lakh onwards (on-road, without discounts)
Discounts: Upto Rs 35,000 cash, upto Rs 30000 exchange bonus (November)

And finally the Celerio, the third Maruti in this list. Priced similar to the WagonR, it offers a slightly better cabin, a more comfortable ride quality and even a cross version called the ‘Celerio X’! Not many know but this car is way more efficient than similarly priced cars like the new Hyundai Santro and Datsun Go / Go Plus. It uses the tried and tested 1000cc K10B motor that also powers the Alto K10 and WagonR. This hatchback is sold in both manual and automatic gearbox options with safety features like dual airbags and ABS in the higher versions. It even gets a steering height adjust which more expensive cars like the Santro lack! 
We like the way the Celerio looks : it has aged well and continues to sell in great numbers. The drive is easy and thanks to a lower height, centre of gravity is lower which in turn makes this stable in terms of handling. A total of 12 different versions are on offer including two powered by factory fitted CNG kits. The AMT option is available on both the regular and the Celerio X model.

Pros:

  • Well packaged cabin : good space and practical
  • Maruti’s excellent network and peace of mind
  • Higher discounts and offers in the market
  • Features on offer : alloy wheels, dual airbags, steering adjust etc

Cons:

  • Pricier than other options here
  • Brand image : lot of Celerios on road with a commercial plate

Sales
August: 9503
September: 9208
Celerio: 9260

Latest update: Celerio H2 Tour launched in Feb 2018

6) Automatic Cars in India under Rs 10 lakh: Tata Tiago

Price: Rs 5.65 lakh onwards (on-road, before discounts)
Current Offers: 1st Year Insurance @ Rs 7400 + Rs 10K Exchange (November)

Tata Tiago Jtp 1

The Tiago makes up for almost 50% of the total passenger car sales for Tata Motors. Priced just above small entry level hatchbacks, the Tiago offers you more bang for your buck than any other similarly priced model. And we aren’t just talking about the design that looks upmarket but the interiors that would look at home on a Rs 6 lakh hatchback! Available in no less than 12 versions, 2 engine and 2 transmission options, the Tiago comes feature packed including multiple safety aids.

The automatic Tiago is sold with the petrol motor and is available in two versions of XTA and XZA, the latter comes with features like a touchscreen ConnectNext infotainment system, steering controls, ABS, dual Airbags and even a cooled glovebox! And then there is supple ride quality that betters most rivals. Drive this car over bad city roads and you will come back with a smile on your face. It also scores over others in terms top notch driving dynamics, good city handling and excellent brakes. The 1.2 petrol engine puts out more than ample performance for the segment, while delivering excellent fuel economy figures. Definitely one of the most fun to drive cars in the price segment and Tata’s best small car till date.

Pros:

  • Interior design and quality
  • Ride and handling package
  • No of variants on offer
  • Powerful and efficient engine options

Cons:

  • Petrol engine not as smooth as rivals
  • Tata’s small cars are known for long term niggles
  • Rear headroom isn’t impressive
  • Rivals have better resale value

Sales:
August: 9277
September: 8377
October: 7549

Latest update: Tata Motors launched the performance oriented JTP version of the Tiago at Rs 6.39 lakh

7) Automatic Cars in India under Rs 10 lakh: Hyundai Santro

Price: Rs 5.77 lakh lakh onwards (on-road, before discounts)
Current Offers: None

Hyundai Santro7

The Santro brand name has made a come back after four years. This time around, its an all-new product and has almost no resemblance with the model that was discontinued in 2014. Launched from Rs 3.8 lakh onwards, Hyundai aims to set their foot strongly in the small car market and also enjoy a first mover advantage in front of the upcoming all-new WagonR. This new product also makes use of Hyundai’s first ever AMT transmission which is offered in two versions of Magna and Sportz. The new Santro is longer and wider than before and has a new design language that would appeal to a wider customer base. It isn’t as tall as before though. It gets an entirely new cabin that certainly doesnt belong to a small car. It not only offers segment best quality, but a practical no-nonsense cabin with features like a IGNIS lookalike speedometer console, large touch screen interface, retro-modern side air-con vents, rear vents et al.
Space is a major highlight here and Hyundai clearly wants to keep their target audience’s families happy. The old 1.1-litre petrol motor makes a comeback but has been revised heavily for increased performance and far lower emission levels : the Santro also offers the most affordable four-cylinder engine in India and even the AMT feels better calibrated than the Maruti offerings. There is no doubt that till the new WagonR arrives, this is the automatic car to buy under Rs 65 lakh.

Pros:

  • Best in class cabin design and quality
  • Superior 4-cylinder is very smooth
  • Good mix of ride and handling
  • Segment leading features

Cons:

  • Not as efficient as rivals
  • Conservative styling not to everyone’s liking
  • Expensive higher spec models
  • Missing features (alloy wheels, DRLs, steering adjust, driver seat height adjust etc)

Sales:
October: 8535

8) Automatic Cars in India under Rs 10 lakh: Maruti Ignis

Price: Rs 6.46 lakh onwards (on-road without discounts)
Discounts: Rs 20,000 cash, upto Rs 25,000 exchange bonus (November)

The Ignis is the most unconventional hatchback in India. It was purposely designed to have a different character and that has gone down well with those looking at exclusivity. The wide grille, protruding wheel arches, a large C pillar and an old school rear design brings in a new trend into the segment. The Ignis can also pass off as a small cross over! The cabin is definitely a highlight, being modern with its design and features on offer. It also gets body coloured elements on the inside to up the bling quotient. No shortcomings here, save for the limited shoulder room at the back. Infact, given the small external dimensions, you will be amazed with the space on offer for four adults.

Geared towards the millennials, the Ignis got off to a good start but with passing time, sales have fallen drastically. Save for the Gypsy, it is the lowest selling Maruti model in India now and also the most affordable Nexa offering. The diesel version was discontinued in mid-2017. Make no mistake, its a great (and fun) hatchback to drive and offers a host of personalisation options at the dealer level. It is the lightest Maruti car to use the 1.2-litre petrol motor and this means performance is terrific. The AMT ‘box is offered across the top three versions which makes this a very good urban car. Add in the ever increasing offers and the Ignis turns into a recommended buy for the young at heart. Even our Senior Editor Bunny has one in his garage of cars and swears by it! Infact, Maruti is offering as much as 35,000 cash discount to fight Santro’s popularity and at this price, the Ignis is worth the extra premium. Definitely.

Pros:

  • Unique design
  • Personalisation kits on offer
  • 1.2 petrol is peppy and very efficient
  • Modern interiors, features

Cons:

  • Unconventional design
  • Poor resale value
  • Rear shoulder space

Sales
Aug: 3043
September: 2648
October: 2253

Latest update: Limited edition launched in Sep 2018

9) Automatic Cars in India under 10 lakh: Mahindra e2O Plus

Price: Rs 6.78 lakh onwards (on-road, before discounts)
Discounts: N/A

31805 Mahindra E2o 004

Yes, you can own an automatic all-electric car for under Rs 8 lakh in India. Mahindra updated the old e2O a few years back into what you see here. It gets two more doors, proper seating for four, a more powerful electric motor and a lot more. Top speed is now rated at 80 km/h and you can go as much as 140 km on a full charge. 
The controversial design aside, everything about the e2O is good. Take for instance the cabin that is surprisingly very good for four adults and offers a long list of features. Being an electric car, it has an automatic transmission, you get power steering, climate control, digital cluster, reverse camera etc. The best part is the smart phone connectivity that helps you control various aspects like remote cooling (switching on the air-con remotely) as well as knowing the nearest charging stations and car’s health. The little e2O is indeed a clever car. 
While performance is brisk for city usage, don’t expect it to do highway runs due to limited to speed and driving range. You will also need a dedicated parking slot at home (for charging) but the shockingly low running costs cannot be ignored. For a monthly run of say 1200km, you will end up saving about Rs 5000 over a similar priced petrol automatic and this equates to Rs 60000 annually. If you can work out an arrangement for charging it each night, the e2O indeed is a very good, clean and affordable urban car.

Pros:

  • Its clean!
  • Easy to drive – auto ‘box, instant torque
  • Extremely low running costs
  • Features on offer

Cons:

  • Limited range
  • Extremely poor resale
  • Limited performance
  • Subjective looks

Sales: N/A

10) Automatic Cars in India under Rs 10 lakh: Maruti Swift

Price: Rs 7.22 lakh onwards (onroad, before discounts)
Discounts: Upto Rs 20,000 cash / Upto Rs 25,000 exchange bonus (November)

India’s largest selling hatchback now is the Swift! Believe it or not but the all-new model has improved massively, thus translating into higher sales than ever before and the good news is that it is available with an optional AMT for both the petrol and Diesel engine options. The new Swift looks much better now and the lower, wider stance surely makes it look oh so sporty. Step inside and there is a sea of change in the design and quality parameter. We love the flat bottom steering and round dials for air-con controls and charging / USB outlets. The all black theme works well and the new Swift improves massively on the space front. Higher versions come with technologically advanced features like smart keyless with start-stop button, SmaryPlay infotainment and even LED front and rear lights. The new Swift offers slightly more passenger room though boot, at 268 litres, remains one of the smallest in the segment.

The new Swift gets a new, lighter platform and the reason why both performance and fuel economy have improved over the earlier version. The petrol engine has a certified economy of 22 kmpl while the diesel comes with a rated figure of 28.4 kmpl and even the base versions come with dual Airbags and ABS as standard. Both the engines offer excellent performance and the diesel motor now has minimal turbo lag and a flatter torque curve. Given the lower weight, the Swift is one of the quickest accelerating cars in the price band.

Pros:

  • New design is better, Swift looks sportier now
  • More space on the inside, base Lxi gets dual airbags
  • Lighter architecture means better performance and economy
  • High resale value and fun to drive

Cons

  • Still not as spacious as rivals like the Grand i10
  • Ride quality isn’t very comfortable over broken roads

Sales
Aug: 19115
September: 22228
October: 17215

Latest update: AMT versions launched in top-spec trim

11) Automatic Cars in India under Rs 10 lakh: Nissan Micra

Price: Rs 7.26 lakh onwards (on-road before discounts)
Discounts: Cash Benefits up to ₹34 500/-, Interest rate at 7.99%, Insurance of ₹20 000/- @₹1/-, Assured 3g Gold Coin (November)

nissan micra india launch

Before we start, do remember that the Micra is offered in two versions of Active (older) and the revised new version. The Active version looks dated and comes in only two versions of XL and XV. Given the massive discounts that add up, you can buy the XV version for just under Rs 6 lakh. This one comes with dual Airbags, a 6.2 inch touch screen interface, ABS, rear sensors etc. That said, the interiors cannot match upto to modern day rivals in terms of design, space or features – no climate control, no smart keyless entry with start-stop, no rear vents etc. Also, the Active does not come with an automatic.

If you have a higher budget, the current gen Micra petrol is the one to opt for – this one got a major facelift a few years back and looks aesthetically better. It only comes with a CVT automatic option with the petrol motor and this is indeed a superior unit as compared to the AMT / AGS transmissions of rivals. A CVT unit offers lesser lag during gear shifts and fractionally better fuel economy as compared to a manual box. The CVT Micra also gets more features than the Active version with a better looking dashboard. 
The Micra continues to get the tried and tested 1.2-litre 3 cylinder petrol engine that is mated to a 5 speed manual gearbox for the Active or a CVT for the regular model. 
Overall though, given its low demand, sober design and dated cabin, you can stay away from this model as rivals are much better in almost all parameters. But, if you want the most affordable CVT automatic in India, this is the one to pick.

Pros:

  • Sorted chassis – good mix of ride and handling
  • Reliable and peppy 1.2-litre petrol
  • Reliable and torquey 1.5-litre diesel

Cons

  • Rivals offer better engines in terms of performance / economy
  • Limited cabin room for the segment
  • Sober design, dated interiors
  • Poor resale value

Sales:
Aug: 302
Sep: 232
Oct: 249

12) Automatic Cars in India under Rs 10 lakh: Hyundai Grand i10

Price: Rs 7.30 lakh onwards (on-road before discounts)
Discounts: Upto Rs 50,000 cash and Rs 20,000 exchange bonus (November)

Hyundai Grand I10

One of the most value packed cars in the segment is the Grand i10. Thanks to huge discounts, the Grand i10 is hard to resist and no wonder then, it is the second largest selling Hyundai offering. The Grand i10 is not a stunning looking car but still very pleasing to the eyes thanks to diamond cut alloy wheels, front LED day-time running lights and even working front air curtains inside the bumper! But the cabin is what keeps us smiling : upmarket feel, dual tone theme and very practical. Ergonomically, the Grand i10 is a great car and major credit for this goes to the slightly front mounted gear lever that makes city driving an easy affair. As expected, Grand i10 gets steering control, including for voice commands, a 17.64cm screen with multiple connectivities, smart keyless with push button start, rear air-con vents and even climate control. There is good space for five adults though boot space is average at 256 litre.
Powering the Grand i10 are a pair of 1.2-litre engines in two fuel types of petrol and diesel. While the petrol is a 4 cylinder set-up, the same that powers the Xcent and i20, the diesel is a 3 cylinder unit but surprisingly very smooth and vibration free. The Grand also gets a proper auto ‘box (not an AMT) and performance is good. The torque converter offers a smoother driving experience and has no lag / delay during shifts, something that AGS / AMT cars suffer from. Overall, the Grand i10, given the discounts, is very good value for money in the segment. Hyundai also offers a dedicated low cost model for the commercial segment.

Pros:

  • Interiors are upmarket and look good
  • Excellent feature list (rear air-con vents, rear camera, push button start)
  • Peppy petrol and smooth diesel
  • Dual airbags and ABS standard across the range

Cons:

  • Expensive automatic
  • Rivals have a better diesel unit
  • Not exciting to drive (Swift is better)

Sales:
August: 11,489
September: 11,224
October: 11,820

Latest update: Safety features made standard in September 2018

13) Automatic Cars in India under Rs 10 lakh: Tata Tigor

Price: Rs 7.51 lakh onwards (on-road, before discounts)
Discounts: 1st Year Insurance @ Discounted Price of  Rs 6899 + Rs 20K Exchange (November)

Tata Tiago Tigor Jtp3

The most affordable automatic sedan comes from Tata Motors. Do note that the automatic is only offered with the petrol powered Tigor and expectedly is of the AMT / AGS variety. The A/T is only offered on the top spec XZA trim. Post the tweaks done few months back, the Tigor does look smart up front and Tata has done well to give it a flowing back end design, something that most other compact sedans cannot manage. Space on the inside, being a Tata product, is generous and this compact sedan offers 419 litre of boot space, as much as larger and more expensive sedans.
The petrol Tigor comes in two stats of tune – the normal 84 bhp versions and the turbo charged 112 bhp model. The latter is the JTP versions and does not get an automatic. Though it is very efficient the 3 cylinder petrol exhibits unwanted vibes and roughness associated with such a set-up.
Where the Tigor does excel is in the ride and handling department. It does manage to absorb bad roads rather well and scores high on comfort and feels more like a bigger car. Talking of which, the Tigor offers excellent space on the inside and the sole A/T variant, the XZA is feature loaded too. Tata Motors is very confident of the product and at this price, we couldn’t have asked for more. If you are in the market for a ‘large’ automatic car at the lowest possible price, pick this one.

Pros

  • Value tag
  • Fuel efficient diesel, peppy JTP petrol
  • Features at this price point – dual airbags standard
  • Looks great in our opinion

Cons

  • 3-cylinder engines aren’t as smooth
  • Tata’s after sales service cannot match Maruti and Hyundai
  • Not as spacious (at the back) as Amaze / Dzire
  • Only 2 years warranty (rivals offer 3 or 5 standard)

Sales
August: 1646
September: 1843
October: 2927

Last update: Launch of Tigor JTP

14) Automatic Cars in India under Rs 10 lakh: Honda Brio

Price: Rs 7.68 lakh onwards (on-road without discounts)
Discounts: 1st year insurance free (November)

One of the lowest selling hatchbacks in India is the Brio and its a shame. A few years back, this was a great little package but Honda hasn’t done much to update it. The Amaze for example has been updated over the years and is a hot seller but the Brio has been a neglected child. Its still a hoot to drive for enthusiasts but lacks in every other department including the design. For the asking price, it looks small, comes with average interiors, lacks features and cabin space. No touch screen interface, no safety on base model, no rear air-con vents, tiny boot and the list goes on. No wonder, Honda sold only 64 units in September 2018.
If you are in the market for a Rs 5-6 lakh hatchback, its best to ignore the Brio. It does offer a proper automatic though but even thats way expensive at Rs 7.66 on-road. Tip: look for cheap used examples in the market and pick one you want affordable thrills!

Pros:

  • Is fun to drive
  • Comfortable ride and yet agile
  • 1.2-litre petrol engine loves being revved
  • One of the few small cars to offer a proper auto (not AMT)

Cons:

  • Essential features missing
  • Cabin space is tight
  • Poor resale value
  • Expensive for the size

Sales:

August: 157
September: 64
October: 27

15) Automatic Cars in India under Rs 10 lakh: Maruti Dzire.

Price: Rs 7.86 lakh onwards (on-road, before discounts)
Discounts: Upto 27.5 cash (special edition) and 30,000 exchange bonus (November)

India’s largest selling sedan garners as many numbers as the next four ‘largest selling’ sedans combined together. This has been the most popular sedan from day one of its launch and the latest version has improved massively. It looks better, though still cant be termed as beautiful, has surprisingly good amount of cabin space and comes with an affordable sticker price. We are a fan of how the cabin looks with the black and beige theme, flat bottom steering, round dials and stand out, tab like central unit. The current Dzire is an all-rounder but remember, the sales figures include the commercial model, Tour, that is very popular with Ola and Ubers of the world. Even then, for private use, its a not a bad deal at all.
The Dzire gets two of the most trusted engines from Maruti’s family – the 1.2-litre petrol and 1.3-litre FIAT sourced diesel unit. Both the engines are known for their trouble free performance and Maruti offers optional AMT with both fuel types, a rare offering for the segment. As it weighs just fractionally over the Swift, performance is as good so is the fuel economy. Infact, the diesel AMT Dzire is the most fuel efficient car in India.
With the current generation Dzire, Maruti has also improved on the ride and handling parameter tremendously. The steering is light, car agile and yet at higher speeds, the Dzire remains composed. Maruti is even offering ABS and dual airbags as standard across the range. If you want a reliable sedan with space and comfort at this price, look no further.

Pros:

  • Spacious, larger than average boot too
  • Highest resale value in the segment
  • Peppy petrol, torquey and efficient diesel
  • Impressive features, auto in both petrol / diesel

Cons:

  • Base L versions is feature stripped
  • Rivals offer better warranty or lower running costs
  • Still has the ‘taxi’ image

Sales
August: 21,990
September: 21,296
October: 17404

Last update: Special edition launched in Aug 2018

16) Automatic Cars in India under 10 lakh: Hyundai i20

Price: Rs 7.97 lakh onwards (on-road, before discounts)
Discounts: Rs 20,000 cash and Rs 30,000 exchange bonus (November)

40444 Hyundai Elite I20 1

Moving on to premium hatchbacks, the Elite i20 pips the Baleno in terms of pricing and also offers slightly higher discounts. Hyundai’s largest selling car in India is the Elite i20. True to its name, this is a perfect example of a premium hatchback, one that looks appealing in design and offers upmarket, high quality interiors. The Elite i20 got a minor facelift in early 2018 and the top spec model with large alloy wheels does stand out. Step inside and you will continue to be impressed with the quality of materials, far better than that on the Maruti Baleno. And while both cars come feature loaded, the i20 ups the game by providing as many as six airbags, a slide adjustment for front arm-rest, cluster ioniser for the air-con and dual USB ports.

The i20 comes with a choice of a 1.2-litre petrol and a 1.4-litre diesel unit. The petrol offers good low end grunt for city runs though is not as rev happy as say the Baleno. We love the gear shifts from the manual ‘box though Hyundai also offers an optional CVT. Given the positioning of the car, Hyundai has skipped a cheaper AMT for a proper CVT ‘box and this does not rob the engine of performance or driving pleasure. The diesel unit is a gem, offering 90 bhp of power and 220Nm of torque. Mated to a 6 speed manual gearbox, it is smooth, has low NVH levels (lower than Baleno and Jazz) and this combined with a mature ride quality makes the i20 diesel an excellent package. It may not be an enthusiast’s car but certainly is a recommended, stylish all-rounder. You can also pick from the rugged looking i20 Active that comes with body cladding all around, higher ground clearance and slightly revised interiors. Does look big for a cross-hatch in our opinion.

Pros:

  • Looks great, especially the top spec models
  • High quality cabin with unique features
  • Excellent diesel engine, is smooth too
  • Hyundai’s proven after sales support

Cons:

  • Still not an enthusiast’s tool
  • Like the Baleno, this one too has limited rear headroom

Sales
August: 11475
September: 12380
October: 13290

Latest update: CVT option launched in May 2018

17) Automatic Cars in India under 10 lakh: Maruti Baleno

Price: Rs 8.05 lakh onwards (on-road, before discounts)
Discounts: Rs 10,000 cash, Rs 15,000 exchange bonus (November)

Baleno Wallpaper Dekstop 11

Among India’s top 5 selling cars and also the largest selling Nexa model, the Baleno has been a runaway success for Maruti. Competing in the premium hatchback segment, the Baleno outsells the i20 and Jazz combined together. While the design is still subjective, where the Baleno scores top marks is inside the cabin. Passenger space is surprisingly very good and it even gets the second largest boot space for any hatch in India. The Baleno comes loaded with all features possible at this price – segment unique TFT speedometer display and steering adjustment for both reach and height for example. However cabin quality isn’t as good as the Hyundai i20’s.

The Baleno comes with both a 1.2-lite petrol and a 1.3-litre diesel unit – both these engines are seen on the Swift and Dzire in similar states of tune. While the diesel gets a manual only, the petrol is offered with both a manual and a CVT auto option. The latter performs far better as compared to the popular AGS / AMT transmissions and the Baleno ends up offering better overall performance and economy than the Elite i20 CVT. Great engine performance aside, we like the way the Baleno rides over city roads, offering an excellent ride quality. High speed manners are mature and for performance seekers, there is also a RS variant with a turbo-charged petrol engine and slightly better aesthetics thanks a small body kit. 
In a nutshell, if you are in the market for a Rs 6-8 lakh car and do not like the idea of a compact sedan, the Baleno should be your pick.

Pros

  • Excellent ride and handing
  • CVT-Petrol works very well. Diesel is peppy (though noisy)
  • Feature loaded – we loved the TFT screen for example
  • Surprisingly very spacious for 5 adults and luggage

Cons:

  • Exterior design is subjective and not to everyone’s liking
  • Cabin looks nice but quality isn’t on par with the Hyundai i20
  • Pan India reach is limited due to Nexa network
  • Though very spacious, rear headroom is limited

Sales
August: 17,713
September: 18,631
October: 18,657

Latest update: Limited edition launched in September 2018

18) Automatic Cars in India under Rs 10 lakh: Hyundai Xcent

Price: Rs 8.14 lakh onwards (on-road, before discounts)
Discounts: Upto 85000 worth of benefits (November)

Hyundai Xcent

The fourth largest selling sedan under Rs 10 lakh is the Xcent. However, trust us, a large chunk of these get sold in the commercial market and that does dent its brand value a lot. Its not a bad car per se, delivering a good mix of cabin space, upmarket feel, features and a good drive. The Xcent gets both a 1.2-litre petrol and a 1.2-litre diesel unit with the latter being a 3-cylinder set-up. The latter offers (surprisingly) good NVH (noise, vibrations, harshness) levels. The petrol is offered with a proper torque converter automatic and not an AMT. Infact, this is the most affordable non AMT automatic sedan in India and offers a better driving experience for city usage with no unwanted jerks.
The Xcent does end up offering good comfort for passengers. This is due to a mix of space, high quality cabin and a good suspension set-up. That said, its not an enthusiast’s car in the way it delivers performance and handling. What sets the ball rolling in its in favour are the massive discounts, as much as 85,000 including cash and exchange bonus benefits. If you want a no nonsense comfortable compact sedan and dont have an automatic on the wish list, the Xcent does make a lot of sense. Given the massive cuts, the Xcent is a tempting purchase.

Pros: 


  • Good fit and finish in cabin
  • Huge discounts make it a value deal
  • Low NVH levels, this is a smooth operator
  • Neutral ride and handling

Cons:

  • Average engine performance and efficiency
  • Poor resale value
  • Still has the ‘taxi’ image

Sales
August: 4981
September: 4105
October: 3143

Last update: Dual airbags and ABS made standard from August 2018 onwards

19) Automatic Cars in India under Rs 10 lakh: Honda Amaze

Price: Rs 8.43 lakh onwards (on-road, before discounts)
Discounts: Additional Extended Warranty of 4th & 5th Year (November)

new honda amaze images

Honda launched the all-new Amaze early in 2018 and it has gone to become the second largest selling sedan in India. Being an all-new generation model, the Amaze excels in all parameters as compared to the outgoing model. It looks new and wears a mature look up front – it is still under 4 meters in length but looks larger in real life. Cabin remains its strongest point, offering one of the most spacious cabins under Rs 8 lakh. Honda has worked hard to impart a premium feel with a dual tone theme and high quality materials and it shows. Interior remain plush for the segment and offer excellent comfort for five adults.

The Amaze continues to come with the same 1.2 petrol and 1.5 diesel units though this time around, both the engine options get optional CVT set-up, a segment first. A CVT transmission is much better as compared to the now common AMT / AGS set-up and offers less lag during gear changes. Infact, for daily usage patterns, the CVT-Diesel offers the best roll-on timings or basically is the quickest in typical traffic conditions. Do note that the top spec V CVT diesel is priced over Rs 10 lakh on-road. The CVT also brings out the best from the petrol engine which is otherwise known to have a weak low end, something that is essential for city drives. Fuel economy remains high and Honda claims running cost of just 35 paise for petrol and 49 paise for diesel in the long run. Honda has also made the steering larger and heavier in terms of its weight – even the shaft size has gone up from 22 to 33 mm. This in turn calls for less effort from the driver and though I would not call it feather light, it works well for slow speed driving. Honda is offering a standard warranty of 3 years / unlimited km along with extended warranty options of 4 and 5 years, again with unlimited usage. This is segment best.

Pros:

  • Spacious and upmarket cabin : we love the layout
  • Only car under 10 lakh to offer diesel-CVT set up
  • Low running costs, upto 5 years / unlimited mileage warranty
  • Good ride, mature looks, Honda brand

Cons: 


  • Diesel engine is still noisy with vibrations
  • Rear headroom is limited
  • No rear air-con vents

Sales
August: 9644
September: 8401
October: 5542

Last update: Amaze crosses 50,000 mark in October 2018

20) Automatic Cars in India under 10 lakh: Tata Nexon

Price: Rs 8.61 lakh onwards (on-road before discounts)
Discounts: 1st Year Insurance @ Discounted Price of Rs 13000 + Rs 15K Exchange

Moving on from hatchbacks and sedans, you can even look at purchasing an automatic SUV under Rs 10 lakh. Though only the mid level XMA of the petrol and diesel models come under this price, these do come loaded with decent kit! The Nexon itself looks big for a sub 4 meter vehicle, essential to massage to the owner’s ego. It also gets a very spacious cabin and Tata has worked hard to deliver the comfort factor. Drive this vehicle over bad roads and you will be impressed with its composure! 
The petrol Nexon comes with a 1.2 litre turbo charged petrol motor that delivers 110 PS of power and is mated to a 6 speed manual gearbox – these figures are on par with say the EcoSport petrol. The diesel unit is larger, being a 1.5 unit with 110 bhp on tap. Infact, in the compact SUV segment, the diesel Nexon is our pick. Whats more, its the only compact SUV to offer an optional AMT with both fuel types. Both the engines get driving modes and though aren’t very smooth, offers reasonably good performance for the heavy Nexon. Do note that the Nexon is the safest SUV in its segment as per recent NCAP tests and this is a strong selling point.
With the Nexon, you get to own a good looking large vehicle at a value based price. Tata has ironed out niggles and their cars now come with great after sales support too. The Nexon no doubt makes for a good purchase.

Pros:

  • Looks nice for a compact sub 4m product
  • Space on the inside, comfort levels
  • Drives nice – the modes do work!
  • Safe and solid product from Tata

Cons

  • Petrol engine isn’t as refined

Sales:
Aug: 4499
Sep: 4297
Oct: 4608

Latest update: Kraz edition launched in Sep 2018

21) Automatic Cars in India under Rs 10 lakh: Tata Zest

Price: Rs 9.39 lakh onwards (on-road, before discounts)
Discounts: Rs 45K Cash Discount + 20K Exchange. Additional Rs 15K Cash Discount on Zest Premio (November)

Tata Zest

Tata’s other sedan is the Zest and is widest car in the segment which means seating three abreast at the back isn’t an issue. The Zest is also one of the few cars that Tata Motors exports to countries like South Africa. It was launched in 2015 and was their all-new sedan in years and erased all our past memories related to the Indigo and the Manza. While the design clearly laid emphasis of its past association with cars from Tata’s stable, everything else was a huge step forward with modern technology – for example the turbo charged petrol motor, a great infotainment system with multiple customisation options, a near perfect ride and handling package among others. You can get the 1.3 diesel in two states of tune : 75 and 90 PS with the latter offering brisk performance for everyday use. The latter is offered with the automatic but at this price, other sedans offer better value.

However today, with the competition having taken the game ahead by leaps and bounds, the Zest does not come across as a much recommended package. True it is spacious, feels like a well built car, has excellent ride quality and good engines, but for personal usage, given the brand appeal in front of rivals, the Zest will not make for a compelling buy. That said, with discounts, it offers the most affordable diesel-auto set up in the segment. The Premio edition looks superb with blacked out theme for roof, outside mirrors and lower bumper and also gets a tan colour middle part on the fascia – looks fab in our opinion. However dwindling sales numbers reflect a sad story : not a bad car per se, but the competition is so much better now.

Pros:

  • Build quality is solid (heavy)
  • Excellent ride quality
  • Features (driving modes, voice commands, touchscreen etc)
  • Powerful engines (turbo petrol, 90PS diesel)

Cons:

  • Poor in-cabin storage
  • Subjective exterior design
  • Poor re-sale value
  • Brand appeal isn’t as strong

Sales
August: 964
September: 1722
October: 896

Last update: Premio edition launched in March 2018

22) Automatic Cars in India under Rs 10 lakh: Honda Jazz

Price: Rs 9.57 lakh onwards 
(on-road before discounts)
Discounts: 1st Year Insurance + 20K Exchange. Also, is additional Exclusive Cash Discount of Rs 25000 on Jazz Diesel Version (November)

Honda’s premium hatchback remains ‘premium’ in the way it is priced. Unlike the i20 and the Baleno, the Jazz is not offered in entry level or lower trim levels which pushes up its pricing from Rs 8.25 lakh onwards. True the base Jazz is expensive but comes feature loaded and Honda believes the target audience for the Jazz will as it is not looking at lower, feature stripped versions.
The Jazz continues to look ‘different’. It isn’t sporty or stylish but upmarket in a good way. Honda designs are generally conservative and so is the Jazz. But step inside and you are impressed with the amount of cabin space on offer. Its unbelievable how Japanese engineers have managed to extract so much space from a car that measures under 4 meters. The design is good too and lot of practical touches go in to make this a family happy car too. 
The Jazz continues to be powered by the same 1.2 litre petrol and 1.5 litre diesel unit. The petrol isn’t a good option for city use due to a weak low end but this is taken care of in the CVT automatic model that is offered in two trims of V and VX. The diesel is torquey and efficient but like the Amaze and the City, remains noisy here too. 
Overall, the Jazz is a very spacious, practical and easy to drive large hatch. Though pricey, it is still a popular car amongst a niche segment of buyers.

Pros:

  • Looks large for a sub 4m car
  • Incredibly spacious on the inside
  • Very practical, massive boot
  • Rides well, like a mature car

Cons

  • Petrol manual has weak low end grunt
  • Low resale value
  • Diesel remains noisy

Sales
August: 1119
September: 1018
October: 1057

23) Automatic Cars in India under Rs 10 lakh: Ford Aspire.

Price: Rs 9.59 lakh onwards (on-road, before discounts)
Discounts: None

Ford Figo Aspire Facelift Studio Shot 2

On paper the Ford Aspire automatic seems expensive, commanding a higher premium than other compact sedans. But it offers you much more. For starters, it makes use a 6-speed automatic which is way superior than AMTs of the world and even the 4 speed of the Xcent. Second, it comes with a larger motor, the 1.5-litre petrol that belts out higher power and torque. In a nutshell, rivals cannot offers the performance levels of the Aspire automatic. What you see is the 2018 model – this new facelift model manages to make improvements across all parameters including segment first 5 year warranty! The new grille, revised bumper and better looking fog lamp inserts might be subtle changes but go a long way in making it look fresh and premium. The new, larger 15-inch alloy wheels gel along well with the positioning of the car. The rear gets minor updates but as you step inside the cabin, you are greeted with a host of additions.

The biggest highlight on the inside is the new SYNC3 interface that not only offers you segment best touch reception, but also comes bundled with navigation, reverse camera, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Its a breeze to use, even for new users and was first seen in the Freestyle and the recently updated EcoSport. Moving on, you also get a push button start-stop feature, auto headlamps and auto wipers. The diesel engine is a carry over but it is mated to a new 5-speed gearbox that is lighter and improves fuel economy marginally. With a hundred horses on tap, it continues to offer one of the best combinations of performance and economy in the compact sedan segment and is offers better NVH (noise, vibrations, harshness) levels than the Honda Amaze. The big news however is the arrival of the 1.2-litre Dragon series petrol engine in the Aspire. It offers 9% more power and 7% higher torque while being way more efficient too. The automatic continues to get a 1.5-litre petrol but this time around, Ford has ditched the DCT or dual clutch transmission for a more conventional torque converter. That said, its still way ahead of the AMT / AGS options found on rivals.

Pros: 


  • Build quality is solid (heavy)
  • Excellent ride quality – comfortable too
  • Better value than ever before – prices slashed
  • Both engines offer good driveability

Cons:

  • Surprisingly no rear air-con vents
  • Relatively lower resale value
  • Petrol automatic may be expensive for some

Sales
August: 523
September: 1640
October: 2520

Last update: New 2018 version launched

24) Automatic Cars in India under Rs 10 lakh: Maruti Vitara Brezza

Price: Rs 9.83 lakh onwards (on-road before discounts)
Discounts: None

One of the few cars in India that are high in demand and come with no discounts or offers whatsoever. Believe it or not, the Vitara Brezza was the fifth largest selling vehicle across India for the month of October 2018. For under Rs 10 lakh on-road, you can pick from the base LDi, VDi and even the automatic variants of AMT VDi. The Brezza, when launched, was a smart looking urban SUV and with time, Maruti has worked on aesthetics too. For example, the higher (and more expensive) versions get blacked out roof and black theme for the alloy wheels. The lower and mid versions however do look bland. Step inside and the Brezza feels like any other Maruti due to sharing of parts and a familiar design. The VDi does miss out on mood lights, touchscreen infotainment or the door armrest and does look sober in our opinion. However, comfort levels are high and space up front is nice. The 2nd row is more or less similar to other compact, sub 4 m SUVs which means good space for 5 adults. However, no rear air-con vents here.
The highlight here is the 1.3-litre DDiS motor, the most widely used diesel motor in India. Given the Brezza’s relatively lighter weight as compared to rivals, the Brezza offers very good performance and fuel economy. And we recommend the AMT version if you have a lot of city runs to do. The Brezza handles very well, more like a grown up hatchback and Maruti has tuned the steering and suspension very well for enthusiasts That said, ride quality is definitely not as good as the EcoSport’s.
Given its mass appeal, long term reliability and great dynamics, the Brezza is an excellent compact SUV. Just that the more expensive versions are the ones to pick, not the LDi / VDi trims.

Pros:

  • Excellent dynamics
  • Decent space, comfortable seats
  • Reliable and peppy diesel motor
  • High resale value, long term maintenance is low

Cons:

  • No petrol option
  • Cabin quality is not a match for the EcoSport
  • Feature stripped LDi / VDi models
  • To common on the roads (if that effects you)

Sales:
August: 13,271
September: 14,425
October: 15,832

Latest update: Brezza AMT launched

 

Also Read: Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 vibrates LESS than a Yamaha R3, reveals 'cool drink test' [Video]

New Santro waiting periods hit 4 months: Hyundai reveals plan to deal with it!

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Leading automaker Hyundai has plans to ramp up its production of the new Santro. Amid huge demand for the car, the company has also set a new target of selling about 10,000 cars per month. We had already reported to you earlier that the company has stopped bookings for the Santro. This was because of the more than expected bookings of the car, dragging the waiting periods to more than three months and even upto four months for some parts in India.

Santro 4

The new Santro also helped Hyundai to maintain good sales and profits during the festive season, during which the whole industry witnessed a slowdown this time around. Hyundai has received nearly 38,500 bookings for the new Santro within 40 days, which is quite a feat in itself. To let you know, the bookings had already touched a figure of nearly 15,000 even before the official launching happened. The launch, which took place on 23rd of October, 2018, marked the comeback of the name ‘Santro’ after 6 years.

The reasons for the Santro being such a hit can be attributed to its class leading features and interiors. The affordable starting price point of Rs. 3.89 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi) is also among the reasons. In fact, Hyundai has cleverly positioned its product less than what all of its rivals from Maruti cost. According to the company, the AMT variants account for nearly one-third of the total sales of the Santro. This in turn hints at the shift towards automatic gearbox equipped cars.

Santro 9

The Hyundai Santro gets  powered by a 1.1-litre petrol engine that churns out 68 Bhp of power along with 99 Nm of torque. The engine comes mated to either a 5-speed manual gearbox or a 5- speed AMT gearbox. The car returns an ARAI certified fuel efficiency figure of 20.3 km/l, which is decent if not the best in segment. There is also a CNG variant on offer which though is low on power but offers a great fuel economy of 30.48 km/kg.

The new Santro is already on its way to become the new king of its segment and has proved its mettle under just 1 month of its launch. It rivals the likes of Maruti Suzuki’s Wagon R, Celerio and the Tata Tiago among others. All these cars reported less than average sales after the launch of the new Santro despite big benefits and discount offers.

Also Read: Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 vibrates LESS than a Yamaha R3, reveals 'cool drink test' [Video]

Tata Harrier 4×4 Expedition, in CarToq’s exclusive render!

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The Tata Harrier is one of the most anticipated SUVs in the Indian market. Scheduled to be officially previewed in  December 2018 followed by a launch in January next year, the Harrier will be Tata Motors’ new flagship SUV. What will a top-of-the-line Expedition variant of the Tata Harrier look like? Here is CarToq’s rendering specialist Vipin  Vathoopan’s take on the same.

Tata Harrier Expedition Render 1

If there is sufficient demand, a 4×4 version of the Harrier is a definite possibility. And with or without 4×4, we can expect car customisers in India to try to make the Harrier more butch – for purely stylistic reasons sometimes, and for turning it into a machine that can look and play the part of an occasional off-roader.

As the render shows, the Expedition variant of the Tata Harrier will be a full fledged on-off road SUV. From a  snorkel to butch cladding all around, the SUV gets features and styling bits that make it look quite macho. The front  bumper gets two LED auxiliary lamps while the bumper mounted headlamps gets protective mesh to ensure that they  survive debris hits during off road driving.

The daytime LED DRLs get finished in yellow, while the Tata logo on the grille is finished in bright red. The tyres  are mud terrain units shod on blacked out alloy wheels while the roof has rails that host a top box. The wing mirrors  also get a new design that give it a rugged appearance. All in all, the Harrier Expedition edition is properly  ‘want-inducing’.

Tata Harrier Expedition Render 2

The regular Tata Harrier will be powered by a 2 liter turbocharged diesel engine that has 140 Bhp-320 Nm on tap. A 6 speed manual gearbox will be offered as standard while a 6 speed torque converter automatic gearbox will join the line-up later. The SUV will get an all wheel drive option on the top-end trims. If Tata Motors ever comes down to  building an expedition version of the Harrier, the all wheel drive option is expected to get additional modes.

From rock crawling to sand modes, the all wheel drive system of the Harrier Expedition is likely to be customized  with more off-roading chops. In fact, the system is borrowed from Land Rover, which offers similar modes on most of its SUVs. So, offering such options would not be difficult for Tata Motors, which has based the Harrier on the Land Rover D8 platform.

Apart from multiple off roading modes controlled by the Terrain Response switch on the center console, the Tata  Harrier Expedition is expected to get revised suspension with additional travel and articulation. The new suspension  will be made ready to cope not just with off-road conditions but also be strong enough to take the additional  stresses from the larger mud terrain tyres.

Coming back to the regular Harrier, bookings for the flagship Tata SUV have already commenced at dealerships across the country for a token amount of Rs. 50,000. Actual deliveries of the SUV are expected to begin from the end of January 2019. Prices of the new SUV are likely to start from about Rs. 15 lakhs for the base variant, going all the way up to Rs. 20 lakhs for the top-end trim.

Also Read: Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 vibrates LESS than a Yamaha R3, reveals 'cool drink test' [Video]

Tata Safari Storme to Toyota Etios: 10 cars that seem slow but go very FAST

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Fast..Faster…Speed…Performance. These are some of the words with relatively low usage in the general Indian car scene. That is firstly because of the fact that people want an affordable and comfortable car that should return a good mileage. Therefore, terms like power and performance go out of the book. Secondly, the road and traffic infrastructure of our country does not much space to enthusiastic driving, at all.

However, despite all these reasons, auto companies have kept testing waters of the Indian automotive fraternity by bringing in some hot ‘sleeper’ cars for petrolheads out there. Though they were few and scarce, there are some examples present which we have brought you today. Take a look and see if you have driven one or not. Also, keep in mind that this is a list of sleeper cars and not performance oriented cars. So you may not see a Polo GT or Abarth Punto here.

Toyota Etios 1.5

The Etios does not exactly comes to our mind when we talk of speed. However, you would have never saw this coming. The Toyota Etios is powered by a 1.5-litre petrol engine that churns out 89 Bhp of power along with 132 Nm of torque. What really is exciting about it is that it can go from 0 to 100 Kmph in just 11.4 seconds. Considering its segment and that happy smiling face, one can not tell this thing could manage that timing. The car’s light weight is among the main factors behind it, as the Etios weighs just 960 kilograms. The low weight of Etios coupled with the powerful 1.5-litre motor helps the car to achieve a top speed of 178 Kph.

Toyota Etios Cross Sportivo

The Toyota Etios Cross Sportivo is a visually beefed up version of the regular Etios Liva hatchback. However, this little crossover is a hidden gem among the big pile of hatchbacks in India. It gets powered by the same 1.5-litre petrol motor that does duty on the Etios sedan, producing 89 Bhp of power along with 132 Nm of torque. Now the Sportivo is even lighter than the Etios and this makes it go even faster. To be particular, the Etios Cross Sportivo does the 0-100 Kph sprint in just 11 seconds. That is quick by all means.

Hyundai Getz 1.5 CRDi

The Hyundai Getz 1.5 enjoys a special place among the enthusiasts who knew how capable the car was. It was powered by a 1.5-litre diesel motor that was found under the bonnet of  the Verna during that time. The engine churned out and 110 Bhp of power along with 240 Nm of torque, which is a lot even by today’s standards. The Getz 1.5 did the 0-100 kmph dash in just 11.4 seconds. What was more exciting about this car was the way that engine used to put down the power, giving you a rush of adrenaline every time you pinned the throttle.

Maruti Suzuki S-Cross 1.6

The Maruti Suzuki S-Cross was an attempt by the Japanese manufacturer to make an affordable family crossover. It was a mix of hatchback and an MPV. However, the S-Cross 1.6 came equipped with a 1.6-litre turbo diesel Multijet engine sourced from Fiat. This engine produced a hefty 118 Bhp of power along with 320 Nm of torque. Though the S-Cross 1.6 wasn’t any different from the regular model, the difference was quite apparent once it was on the move. The S-Cross 1.6 did a 0-100 Kmph run in just 11.3 seconds, which is quite good considering its heft.

Honda Mobilio 1.5 Petrol

The Honda Mobilio was a pretty good car but never made it big in terms of sales. The now discontinued MPV from the Honda stables had a 1.5 litre i-VTEC petrol engine sourced from the City sedan. It did the 0 to 100 Kmph run in just 11 seconds, which is quite amazing given it’s a seven seater vehicle. Honda’s reliability, was an added bonus to the car.

Hyundai Verna 1.5 CRDi

The Hyundai Verna diesel 1.5 was your average family sedan with a twist. Its 1.5 litre CRDi engine produces 110 Bhp of power and 240 Nm of torque. This powerful engine was enough for the car to achieve a 0 to 100 Kmph mark in just a little above 11 seconds. That is a good figure considering it was a hefty saloon. Poor Handling marred it from achieving the ultimate sleeper car tag.

Skoda Yeti

The Skoda Yeti was an excellent SUV that came before its time. It never was a sales success for Skoda but despite this, it was on sale for a failry long terms. The Skoda Yeti came powered by a 2.0 litre TDI turbo diesel engine that churned out 140 Bhp of power and 320 Nm of torque. 0 to 100 kmph came in just 9.9 seconds, which is impressive. It had an All Wheel Drive system too which meant slight off-roading was not an issue.

Isuzu D-Max V-Cross

The D-Max really had us fooled. With its heft of nearly 1.9 tons and that square brick shape, we never saw it coming. But this hell of a machine is capable of completing the 0-100 Kph run in under 12 seconds. Keep it pinned and you’ll see a top speed of 175 Kph. This sedan killer gets powered by a 2.5 litre turbo diesel motor producing 134 Bhp of power and 320 Nm of torque. But the way this thing puts down its power on road is something to write home about.

Tata Safari Storme 400


Seems like the good old Safari has been going on since prehistoric ages and would continue until a nuclear apocalypse. Accordingly, the current generation Safari Storme definitely holds its own when it comes to sheer acceleration. The Storme’s 2.2 litre Varicor turbo diesel engine with 154 Bhp of power and 400 Nm of torque, mated to a 6 speed manual gearbox, makes sure that the SUV does the 0-100 Kph run in just 12.8 seconds. While that may not seem much but if you take a look at competition like the Scorpio, XUV500 and even the Fortuner, the whole picture gets clear.

Chevrolet Trailblazer


The Chevrolet Trailblazer was at one point the flagship vehicle for the american company. This huge SUV had a 2.8 litre turbo diesel engine churning out 197 Bhp of power along with 500 Nm of torque. This easily makes it the most powerful vehicle on this list. The Trailblazer was mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration figures were at a respectable as 0-100 Kph came in just 9.95 seconds. To let you know, the Trailblazer is a proper 7-seat SUV weighing more than 2 tons. It rivaled the Toyota Fortuner and Ford Endeavour during its time here.

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Bajaj Pulsar: 5 GORGEOUSLY modified examples

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The Bajaj Pulsar is the most popular series of performance motorcycles currently on sale and the go-to bikes for those looking for a bit of fun without really breaking the bank. Bajaj offers the Pulsar in multiple guises to cater to the needs of almost every performance enthusiast starting his journey on two wheels to performance nirvana.

However, due to its popularity, some owners modify their Pulsars to make them stand out from the crowd. In this post, we’ll take a look at five such Pulsars.

Pulsar 200 NS to Brat-Bob Sportsbike

The bikes seen above in the video by 200cc Shootout is what the youtuber calls a brat-bob style modified Sportsbike. Up front, this modified 200 NS sports a circular projector headlight with an integrated daytime running light running around its diameter. The bike features clip-on handlebars with adjustable brake and clutch levers. The sculpted tank with the skull logo in white is unlike anything you’ve ever seen on a Pulsar. The bike also seems to be on a custom frame which only allows for a single seat. The integrated taillight with indicators is also a rather nice touch.

The bikes sits on the regular Pulsar 200 NS 17-inch wheels, though the front tyre is now a Michelin 120/70 and the rear a Metzeler 200/55. The bike also features a dual-exhaust setup and the engine has been modified for more performance and this bike can hit a top speed of 168 km/h.

200 NS Converted to look like a Triumph Tiger 800

The Tiger 800 is an adventure motorcycle produced by British marque Triumph and the 200 NS seen in the video above by Bigbang Biker has been converted to look like one. There are a lot of modifications made to this Pulsar 200 NS to make it look like a Tiger 800 and all of them have been custom made. Most of the setup including the frame for the windscreen up front is made using mild steel rods which are quite sturdy but also lightweight.

Other than the manually adjustable windscreen up front, the changes on this modified 200 NS include a wider handlebar from the KTM 390 Duke and footpegs that have been pushed forward to give the rider a more comfortable riding position. More changes include longer travel front suspension, a headlamp protection cage, engine protection in the form of crash guards, a backrest for the pillion along with a extend section behind for luggage. The exhaust too is also a custom unit and has transformed the notes emitted by the engine.

2009 Pulsar 200 into Cafe Racer By Andromeda Custom Motorcycles

Bajaj Pulsar 200 Cafe Racer By Adromeda Custom Motorcycles

This modified bike it from new Custom bike builders Andromeda Custom Motorcycles, The team at this Bangalore-based ‘weekend garage, took a 2009 Bajaj Pulsar and transformed it into what you see in the images above and below. Andromeda Custom Motorcycles is basically Bangalorean Rathish Nair, his brother-in-law and friend who are corporate professionals on the weekdays.

Bajaj Pulsar 200 Cafe Racer By Adromeda Custom Motorcycles 1
The trio of amateurs has designed what can only be described as a timeless classic. Their build gets a custom round headlamp up front, a custom tank with the unit painted in red and a chopped tail section which means that there is only room for one on this bike. Other changes include an analogue speedometer, under seat ignition key, custom seats with red stitching, upgraded front tyre, hanging battery box, led turn and tail light along with a conical air filter and a chopped free flow exhaust.

Andromeda Customs Images Source

200 NS Into Scrambler

This Pulsar 200 NS seen in the video above by Youtuber Mukesh Studios. P has been transformed into a Scrambler by Philippino tuning house Tokwa Party Garage. The changes on this modified bike are numerous and include a circular all-LED headlamp with a custom cowl on top, motocross-style front and rear fenders, new handlebar grips with rearview mirrors mounted to the ends of the bars themselves.

The bike has been painted in a glazed white finish while the one-piece saddle is finished in what appears to be red leather. The rear end of the bike has been chopped while the taillight set around the rear end of the bikes is a wraparound LED unit. The exhaust setup on the bikes is a custom-unit and the Scrambler sits on knobby off-road tyres.

Pulsar 200 Into Stunning Black & Copper Cafe Racer

Black & Copper Bajaj Pulsar 200 Cafe Racer
Source

This stunning Cafe Race based on an older Pulsar 200 is the work of automobile design student Tejas Manek. Manek, who posted the video below about the build of the bike on his youtube page has built a cafe racer that is a true treat for the eyes.

Up front, the bike features a circular headlamp unit along with new handlebars that play host to circular rear-view mirrors. The footpegs have been moved back and raised to meet Manek’s requirements. The exhaust also seems to be a custom unit as is the fuel tank while the rear end which plays host to a single seat looks to have been chopped. The rear tyre also features a custom fender. The bike is painted in black with copper highlights all around and look rather brilliant.

Also Read: Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 vibrates LESS than a Yamaha R3, reveals 'cool drink test' [Video]

Tata Harrier Sport SUV: What it could look like [Video]

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Tata Motors has just unveiled its new flagship offering, the Harrier SUV. The media preview of the Tata Harrier is just weeks away, and by the middle of December, we’ll be able to give you a clear picture of the new SUV. While Tata Motors hasn’t spoken about a sportier version of the Harrier, here’s a speculative render that shows what such a model could look like.

Tata Harrier Sport Render

The Tata Harrier Sport as shown in the render gets a body kit, bumper extensions and a contrast black roof. The alloy wheel design also sees a revision. Obviously, there’s no information about what the changes that the mechanicals of the Harrier Sport will see. This said, we do know that the stock variant will be powered by a 2 liter Fiat Multijet turbocharged diesel engine with 140 Bhp-320 Nm. A 6 speed manual gearbox will accompany this engine at launch.

A few months down the line, the Tata Harrier will get a 6 speed torque converter automatic gearbox sourced from Hyundai. Tata Motors could also launched a turbocharged petrol engine in due course of time, especially when the Bharat Stage 6 emission norms kick in. So, by 2020, you can expect the Harrier to be sold with both petrol and diesel engine options.

Coming to the Harrier Sport, we expect JTP to get involved if Tata Motors plans mechanical changes to the vehicle. The JTP variant of the Harrier Sport is expected to get a tweaked version of the turbocharged petrol engine that the SUV will be offered with. A stiffer suspension set-up and other specific changes meant to improve the driving performance of the vehicle are also likely. JTP stands for Jayem-Tata Performance, a new sub brand that Tata Motors recently created to sell high-performance versions of its regular cars.

Coming back to the regular version of the Tata Harrier that will be launched soon, the SUV will get a front wheel drive layout as standard. An all wheel drive layout will be offered on the top-end trims. The Harrier sits on the OMEGA platform, which has been derived from Land Rover’s D8 platform.

The Harrier will be the most feature-rich SUV that Tata Motors has ever produced. From a Terrain Response system inspired by Land Rover and LED headlamps to a JBL-sourced audio unit and a floating infotainment console, the SUV will be seriously loaded.

The SUV will take on the likes of the higher trims of the Hyundai Creta and the base trims of the Jeep Compass. Prices of the Tata Harrier are expected to start from about Rs. 15 lakhs, ex-showroom Delhi. We expect Tata Motors to surprise us with a sharper price tag though.

Via SRKDesign on Youtube

Also Read: Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 vibrates LESS than a Yamaha R3, reveals 'cool drink test' [Video]


New Maruti Ertiga: Details of new diesel engine revealed

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The all-new Maruti Ertiga was just launched days ago, and the new MPV is a much improved vehicle. While the petrol engine of the new Ertiga is an all-new unit, replete with a mild hybrid layout, the diesel engine is the same old 1.3 liter Fiat Multijet unit. By the end of 2019, all this will change.

New Maruti Ertiga4

 

The all-new Maruti Ertiga is expected to get the 1.5 liter diesel engine that Suzuki has developed in-house. The new diesel engine will not only meet Bharat Stage 6 emission norms but is also expected to be more powerful than the Fiat Multijet unit, which makes 89 Bhp-200 Nm.

The new engine is also expected to be paired to a brand new, 6 speed manual gearbox. This gearbox will again be an improvement over the current 5 speed unit. Expect fuel efficiency to go up marginally thanks to the taller 6th gear which will allow the engine to operate at a lower rpm at cruising speeds.

Expect the diesel powered variants of the Ertiga to get pricier once the new engine is introduced. This is because the new Bharat Stage 6 emission norms will require additional emission control equipment. This will increase costs significantly.

New Maruti Ertiga3

The new Ertiga is based on the HEARTECT platform, and is actually lighter than the previous generation model despite it being larger than before. It’s longer and wider while the wheelbase is unchanged. Interior room has gone up as a consequence, and luggage capacity has also increased.

The all-new Ertiga will soon get a CNG-Petrol dual fuel variant. This variant will be made available in specific markets of India where CNG dispensing outlets are available. The new variant will be aimed primarily at the cab market. However personal MPV buyers interested in low running costs are also likely to opt for the vehicle. There’s no LPG Petrol variant on the anvil anytime soon though.

New Maruti Ertiga5

As for features, the new Maruti Ertiga gets brand new beige interiors with a new dashboard design. The MPV gains faux wood inserts on the dashboard, giving it a premium look and feel. Roof mounted AC vents continue to be available on the MPV. A major addition is automatic climate control. A touchscreen infotainment unit with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is another new feature addition. Prices of the new Maruti Ertiga have gone up thanks to the feature additions, and the new MPV starts from Rs. 7.44 lakhs, ex-showroom Delhi.

The new Ertiga is not the only Maruti car that will receive the newly developed, in-house 1.5 liter turbocharged diesel engine. There are a whole lot of cars waiting for this very motor. The Ciaz Facelift, S-Cross, Swift, Baleno and the Vitara Brezza are all waiting for this motor.

Via GaadiWaadi

Also Read: Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 vibrates LESS than a Yamaha R3, reveals 'cool drink test' [Video]

Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 vibrates LESS than a Yamaha R3, reveals ‘cool drink test’ [Video]

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The all-new Royal Enfield twins – the Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650 are now in showrooms for customers to test out and riders are finding out just why reviewers were left shaking their head in disbelief at just how much better these new bikes are compared to the ones already on sale.

Royal Enfield Vs R3 Vibration Test

The biggest change in the new Royal Enfield twins when compared to their smaller single-cylinder engines is the refinement of the powerplants. Youtuber Ride With Rahul decided to test out the refinement of the new Interceptor 650 compared to his own bike, the Yamaha R3 with the help of a Thums Up bottle.

The Youtuber first tests out the new Interceptor 650 by setting a half-open bottle of Thums Up on the fuel tank. He then starts up the bike and shows off how smooth the new engine is at idle. He then revvs the bike quite high to see how much the vibrations build up. The bottle of the soft drink moves about a bit but that is mostly due to the shape of the tank.

The youtuber then switches to his Yamaha R3 and with another half-finished bottle of Thums Up, he proceeds to redo the experiment on his very own bike. The bottle moves about around a bit more and the youtuber claims that at the same rpm level, The Royal Enfield is the much smoother bike. However, the soft drink inside starts frothing up at the top quite a bit more compared to the Interceptor 650, which shows you just how smooth the new engine is.

So what are the reasons why the new Royal Enfield Interceptor is so much smoother than before? There are two major reasons.

The first major reason is the use of a balancer shaft for the twin-cylinder 648 cc engine. The use of the balancer shaft on the twin-cylinder engine balances out offsets vibrations caused by engine designs that are not inherently balanced. This balancer shaft cancels out most of the excess vibrations from the engine which means there are quite a lot fewer vibes being transferred into the body of the bike, resulting in a much smoother experience while riding.

Secondly, the fact that the new Royal Enfiled engine is a twin-cylinder unit is one of the reasons why the bikes produce fewer vibrations. The addition of an extra cylinder means that there are a lot fewer vibrations like the engine itself is more balanced compared to a single cylinder unit, which is inherently unbalanced. The inherently unbalanced nature of a single cylinder engine is one of the major reasons why regular 350 and 500 cc RE are known to buzz about all the time.

Also Read: Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 vibrates LESS than a Yamaha R3, reveals 'cool drink test' [Video]

Cars between 2 to 3 lakhs in India: Alto 800 to Renault KWID

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If you are in the market for a new car and have a limited budget between Rs 2 to 3 lakh in terms of on-road price including all taxes and fees, you have only three options to pick from. All these options are hatchbacks and include the Datsun redi-GO, Maruti Alto 800 and Renault KWID. We are not including the Tata Nano here as production of the car has been halted. 
Under Rs 3 lakh, you can only opt for the lower trim levels which are offered with a 800cc petrol engine mated to a 5 speed manual transmission. Lets have a look at the cars:

1) Cars between 2 to 3 lakh : Alto 800

Price: Rs 2.85 lakh onwards (on-road, before discounts)
Current Offers: Upto Rs 20000 cash, upto Rs 30000 exchange bonus (November)

India’s most affordable car was launched in 2000 as the replacement for the good old Maruti 800. The Alto 800 is the largest selling car in small towns and rural markets and the company has sold 35 lakh (yes, 35,00,000) Altos since 2000 in the Indian car market. There is no denying the fact that the Alto 800 is a car for the masses! Bullet proof reliability, low running costs and ease of driving is that the little Alto offers. Powered by a 800cc engine and mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox, the Alto 800 offers surprisingly brisk performance for city runs. Maruti also offers a company fitted CNG kit for even lower running costs – but this is priced over 3 lakh in terms of on-road price.
The cabin, though not as spacious as the Nano, offers a clean design with durable materials and can last for decades. Higher spec models offer an integrated audio system, front power windows, keyless entry and a driver side airbag is optional across all trim levels. You can even personalise the car with accessories online and get the same delivered via your nearest showroom.
At this price, the Alto 800 offers an unbeatable package. Its long in the tooth but is still winning thousands of hearts across India each month. For under Rs 3 lakh on-road, you can pick among the base standard or the LX Option trim. In case you are taking exchange bonus, you can even have the Lxi trim which gets your

Pros:

  • Value for money, factory fitted CNG option
  • Driver airbag optional across all versions
  • Light controls make it easy to drive
  • Efficient and cheap maintenance cost

Cons:

  • Not a good highway companion
  • Not as spacious as say the Nano or redi-GO
  • Average road presence

Sales (not available as figures are clubbed with Alto K10)

Latest update: Alto Utsav edition launched in October 2017

2) Cars Between Rs 2 to 3 lakh: Datsun redi-GO

Price: Rs 2.85 lakh onwards (on-road, before discounts)
Discounts: 1st Year Insurance + 2 Gram Gold Coin + Rs 12K Exchange Benefits + 3 Year Road Side Assistance (November)

For under Rs 3 lakh, you can pick the base model of the redi-GO. However if you are opting for exchange bonus, you could even have the second trim, the ‘A” model after serious negotiations with the dealer. The redi-GO AMT offers shattering value for money considering the features it comes equipped this. For example, the A model gets body coloured bumpers, left and right outside mirrors, premium seat cloth, power steering, air-con with heater, driver information display and even a charging outlet.
The redi-GO looks pretty nice for a small car and with generous dimensions, manages to stand out in the crowd of entry level hatchbacks on the road. In fact for young buyers, we recommend this any day over the Alto 800. On the inside, the redi-GO gets an all black color theme that is broken well by silver inserts at places. Practical points include open space above the glove box, under the air-con and multiple cup holders. That said, all four doors do not offer any storage space at all. However Datsun claims the redi-GO has the roomiest interiors for the segment. The 800cc engine offers more than ample performance for city runs and though a bit rough, is light on the pocket.

Pros:

  • Most affordable automatic
  • Modern interiors
  • Easy urban car (tall seating, good visibility, light steering)
  • Peppy and fuel efficient

Thumbs down

  • High speed manners
  • Interior fit and finish
  • Limited network, poor resale value
  • Cost cutting evident (single front wiper, non retractable belts)

Sales:
July: 1623
Aug: 1674
Sep: 1658

Latest update: Limited edition model launched in Sep 2018

3) Cars Between Rs 2 to 3 lakh: Renault KWID

Price: Rs 3.02 onwards (on-road, before discounts)
Current Offers: 50% Off on 1st Year Insurance + Rs 15000 Exchange Bonus + 4 Year Warranty on Select Model (November)

Like the redi-GO, for Rs 3 lakh, you can only get the base Kwid model. If you factor in the exchange bonus, for just over Rs 3 lakh, you can buy the RXE version that comes with foldable rear seats, better looking fascia with silver contours, air-con, engine immobiliser etc. Launched in September 2015, the KWID has been Renault’s largest selling car in India for several years. SUV inspired design has gone down well with buyers and the car looks upmarket, from a higher segment. The cabin too excels over rivals when it comes to a premium feel, ditto for class leading features like a touch-screen infotainment interface, full LCD speedometer console, rear arm-rest, rotary knob for gear selector (AMT version) et al – but do note all these cost over Rs 3 lakh.
Renault offers the KWID with a choice of two engine options. These include a 800cc and a larger 1000cc motor: the latter is also offered with an optional automatic transmission option. The KWID rides like a mature, much larger hatchback and this ups the comfort quotient by a good margin. Renault has been on their toes to launch limited edition versions and new trim levels every few months and this has kept the KWID fresh in the market. With 8 versions on sale today across a price difference of 2 lakh, this car manages to attract a wide set of buyers.

Pros:

  • Multiple engine and transmission options
  • Baby SUV looks go down well with buyers
  • Segment leading ride quality
  • Segment first features (rear arm-rest, touch-screen etc)

Cons:

  • Small tank: only 28 litres
  • Huge turning radius of 5m!
  • No visual difference between base and top-end
  • Lowering market demand = poor re-sale

Sales:
July: 5015
August: 5541
September: 5529

Latest Update: 2018 edition with added features

Also Read: Renault Kwid-based MPV caught testing: Spy Shots reveal new details

Check out these classy, customized Volkswagen Polo hatchbacks from Grid7 Customs [Video]

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Grid 7 Customs is one of the better-known customization houses from Kerala. The Thrissur-based Customization garage has over the past month released videos showcasing its latest creations – two Volkswagen Polos that feature a host of upgrades that make them stand out from the crowd. So in this article, let’s take a look at these two custom Polos from Grid7 Customs.

WRC Grey Polo 6R

This Volkswagen Polo features a host of upgrades both cosmetic and performance-based that give this Polo the grunt to match its new looks. The body of this Volkswagen Polo has been given a custom grey paint job by Grid7 Customs. Other changes on the exterior of this German hatchback include 17-inch wheels that match the custom body. The Headlights and tail lights are both aftermarket LED units with unique light signatures. Also seen up front, are aftermarket fog lamps fitted onto the custom WRC front bumper. The rear bumper too is a custom unit.

The WRC Grey Polo 6R has been given a host of performance-enhancing upgrades. These upgrades include a Wolf Moto Performance Remap fo the diesel engine under the hood of this custom Polo along with a Grid& Diesel performance exhaust setup which sees two tailpipes exiting out of the centre of the rear bumper. This Polo has been lowered as with the help of Eibach lowering springs and the brakes have been upgraded with slotted rotors & pads from Brembo, which should help the car deal with the extra speed from the remapped engine.

Tantom Blue Magic Polo 6R

This customized Volkswagen Polo is owned by Muhammed Binshad and like the Grey hatch seen before features a host of performance and cosmetic changes. This Polo has been given a custom Blue paint job that really catches the light and looks extremely cool. This custom Polo features the front and rear bumpers along with the side skirts from the GTI hot hatchback. Other cosmetic changes include aftermarket headlights and taillights with the latter featuring a smoked effect. The Tatom Blue Polo sits on 17-inch Alloy wheels from Stance.

This Polo too features a host of Performance upgrades to go with the added exterior beautification. The Blue Polo gets a diesel performance exhaust and now sits closer to the ground thanks to the addition of Eibach lowering springs. The custom Polo also features Brembo rotors and pads for the brakes.

The Volkswagen Polo is an enthusiast favourite when it comes to modifications. Since it’s a global car, the Polo has a huge range of after market accessories available. From cosmetic enhancements to full-fledged performance parts, the Polo is a customizer’s delight.

Also Read: Renault Kwid-based MPV caught testing: Spy Shots reveal new details

6 types of Bajaj Pulsar motorcycles for 6 kinds of buyers: Who should buy what?

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Bajaj first launched the Pulsar in 2001 in two variants, a 150 cc bike and a 180 cc bike. From then to nearly 18 years now, the Pulsar range has proved to be the bestselling motorcycle for the company. It provided India with a more sporty and upmarket alternative of commuting during a time when Indian moto scene had gone bland. Currently, the name Pulsar is associated with a number of bikes, ranging from 135 cc engine capacity to 220 cc engine capacity. If you are planning to get one soon, here is a list of 6 different types of Pulsars for six types of Indian riders.

 

For the budget conscious rider looking for a good-looking ride and mileage – 135 LS

pulsar 135 ls

If you want to get a Pulsar but are short on budget, the Pulsar 135 LS is the bike for you. Not only is it affordable with prices starting at Rs 64,141, ex-showroom (Delhi), it also returns a good mileage of 64 kmpl. This makes both purchasing and running affordable. The Pulsar 135 LS is the most affordable and frugal bike in the Pulsar range but does not fall short on style and substance. Newbie riders will also appreciate its nimbleness and find it easy to ride.

For the safe rider – Pulsar 150 Twin Disc

The Pulsar 150 is among the cheapest bikes in India to come with an option of disk brakes at both the ends. If you prioritize safety but are a bit tight on budget, the Pulsar 150 Twin Disc can be yours at just Rs. 79,514. It gets a 260 mm front disc and a 230 mm rear disc brake which will provide enough bite to bring your bike to a stop compared to other bikes.

For the speed freak wanting a faired bike at the right price – Pulsar RS200

The RS200 was Bajaj’s most powerful bike in India before the arrival of the Dominar. The RS200 looks quite good because of its stylish full fairing and is among the cheapest fully faired bikes in India, starting at just Rs. 1.27 lakhs. It not only looks good but has power to match, with 24.5 bhp on tap. This enables it to reach 140+km/h top speed which is quite good, if not the best. The RS200 also has a ABS variant on offer but it comes at an extra premium.

For those looking for a good-looking VFM motorcycle with raw power – Pulsar NS200

The Pulsar NS200 is the naked twin of the stylish RS200. It is slightly low on power but the weight saving due to the absence of fairing makes it a very sporty motorcycle. It looks quite good and has that powerful streetfighter bike looks, all in a budget that is at least Rs 20,000 less than the RS200. If you want outright performance bike to challenge the likes of KTM and Yamaha, you should look no further.

For those looking for a classic Pulsar that they can take for a long ride – Pulsar 220F

The Pulsar 220F is among the motorcycles that taught Indian youth to go fast in style. After all these years, it still remains a favorite of many and carries forward the design DNA of the original Pulsars. It has a relaxed seating position compared to the more sportier RS200 and NS200 and features a fuel injected engine.

Best of both worlds – Pulsar NS160

Pulsar NS160

Last but not the least, the Bajaj Pulsar NS160 is another great option if you are mileage concious but also want a performance oriented bike. With an ex-showroom price of Rs 82,000, it offers a mix of both performance and mileage. It is a toned down version of the more powerful NS200 but features an almost identical design language. Perfect bang for your buck, we say.

Also Read: Renault Kwid-based MPV caught testing: Spy Shots reveal new details

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