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Make illegal Royal Enfield exhausts LEGAL for just Rs. 350 [Video]

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Royal Enfield bikes, which are one of the most modified two-wheelers in India are often targetted by the cops of different states. Last year there was numerous news of policemen catching Royal Enfield bike riders and issuing fine to them for loud exhausts. Most Royal Enfield owners upgrade the exhausts to make their bikes look better and sound different. However, such bikes are easily noticeable by the cops due to their sound.

Well, here is a solution to it and it is called the “dB Killer”. dB or decibel is the unit of measuring the intensity of sound. Bullet Guru shows an Rs. 350 dB killer than can fit in most of the aftermarket bikes. He also installed the same in his motorcycle with aftermarket exhaust and explains the difference with a decibel meter in place.

With the dB killer installed, the readings went up to 118 dB while after installing the exhaust dB killer, the readings hovered around 102-103 dB. It is around a 20% reduction in sound. It should be noted that the rules allow 80 dB of maximum exhaust output from the two-wheelers in India.

However, it is measured in a controlled area without the effect of wind. We are not sure if this decibel killer will suppress the sound to that level in a quieter environment, but it sure brings down the loud thuds of an aftermarket exhaust.

In a second video, he also shows that the dB killer ensures that the bike does not make the dreaded “backfire” sounds, which is popularly known as “patakha” sound by the Royal Enfield enthusiasts. The dB killer suppresses any loud noise or powerful sound coming towards it and makes the silencer as good as the stock exhaust. The dB killer gets installed at the end of the exhaust, and it absorbs all the high note sounds made by the exhaust.

Any cop is yet to catch a motorcycle that gets an aftermarket exhaust with dB killer. As the police in India rely on their ears rather than scientific instruments like decibel meter, it can become rather difficult for the police to catch such bikes.

Last year, hundreds of motorcycles with aftermarket exhausts were caught in India. Even a few superbikes were fined for having loud exhausts. The Supreme Court of India recently banned any modifications to the vehicles. There are no clear guidelines on exactly what is prohibited, but the court issued a blanket ban on any kind of modification done to the vehicles.

Db Killer Featured

This dB killer is available online, and the links can be found in the YouTube video. The installation process is quite simple, but it can only be fitted to certain kinds of aftermarket exhausts. As per the video, this device cannot be installed in the bikes with wider exhaust openings. The legality of this product is not known, but it works wonderfully to suppress the exhaust sound.

Also Read: This is how the new Suzuki Alto Works could look like


Renault Kwid, Duster, Lodgy & Captur to get Android Auto and Apple CarPlay system

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Renault India is facing stiff competition from its rivals in the Indian market. The manufacturer currently offers four cars in the market and to make them up to date, features like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay system will be extended across the model range of the French car manufacturer.

Renault currently does not offer the Apple CarPlay or Android Auto smartphone connectivity with any of their cars in the Indian market. It should be noted that Renault Kwid became the first car in the segment to offer a touchscreen infotainment system, but it does not provide smartphone connectivity at the moment. The Renault dealers say that new infotainment systems will arrive at the dealerships by 12th February in the major cities and a fortnight later, all the dealerships across the country will get the updated systems according to CNB.

Of course, the upgraded infotainment systems will only be available with the top-end versions of the models in the Indian market. The Android Auto and Apple CarPlay have become the new norm in India. Almost all the modern vehicles get the smartphone connectivity with the touchscreen infotainment system in the market. Renault is expected to upgrade the hardware of the touchscreen infotainment systems to make them work with the new-age smartphones. All the Renault models in the Indian market including the Kwid, Lodgy, Captur and the Duster offer touchscreen infotainment systems.

The smartphone connectivity system has become the new universal norm in the vehicles in India. While it may not affect the sales of these vehicles in a significant way, the customers will surely feel that they are getting an updated and new-age product. Apart from the smartphone connectivity, the new systems are expected to get other connectivity options like USB, AUX-in, and Bluetooth. It may affect the prices of the vehicles slightly, but Renault is not likely to push for higher rates as the cars are not very popular among the customers.

Renault is expected to do two significant launches this year. One of them will come in the form of Renault Kwid-based MPV. The upcoming seven-seater vehicle carries the codename RBC and will be launched by the festive season this year. The other major launch coming from the manufacturer is the all-new Renault Duster. The Duster will get a full model change. The Duster was a very popular car in the Indian market until the competition became extremely stiff. The updated Duster is expected to bring back the magic when it is launched later this year. The Duster will take on the likes of Hyundai Creta directly and the upcoming Mahindra XUV300 indirectly.

The Renault Captur is currently the flagship vehicle of the brand and is selling with a heavy discount. Renault recently announced that the losses in India have doubled in the Financial Year 2018. However, with the upcoming cars in the market, Renault is expected to regain its position in the market soon.

Also Read: This is how the new Suzuki Alto Works could look like

Mahindra XUV300 caught on the road, next to a Maruti S-Cross [Video]

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Mahindra XUV 300 will be launched on 14th February, and it has already gathered a lot of attention in the market. Mahindra revealed the all-new XUV300 digitally through pictures and videos, and it looks quite attractive. This is the first time that the all-new XUV300 has been spotted on the road without a camouflage. The compact SUV stopped alongside a Maruti Suzuki S-Cross, which gave a clear perspective of vehicle’s road presence.

The Mahindra XUV300 is based on the SsangYong Tivoli, but there are enough changes to differentiate it from the SsangYong’s model. The all-new XUV 300 looks quite futuristic and gets very sharp front LED headlamps and LED tail lamps. The video shows a clear view of tail lamps that also get a unique design element. The video shows the split tail lamps of the upcoming XUV300. You can even see them glow up when the brakes are applied. The lights are quite bright, and the LED design pattern gives a unique look to the vehicle.

Even at the front, the Mahindra XUV300 gets elaborative DRL design. It gets one of the biggest DRLs in the segment, and they form a unique pattern that makes the XUV300 easily recognisable on the roads and adds an intimidating look to it. The headlamps of the upcoming XUV300 gets waterfall design that is connected by the DRL element.

The Mahindra XUV300 will take on the likes of Tata Nexon, Ford EcoSport and the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza in the Indian market. Mahindra has officially announced that the all-new XUV300 will get many segment-first features. The segment-first feature list consists of disc brakes on all four wheels, 7-airbags, steering modes and dual-zone climate control system. The XUV300 also boasts of longest wheelbase in the segment, making it much roomier than the rivals. It also gets touchscreen infotainment system, cruise control, sunroof, ABS+EBD, traction control and leather seats.

Xuv300 S Cross

Mahindra also announced that the XUV300 would be powered by the most torque-rich engines in the segment. The XUV300 will get both petrol and diesel engine options in the Indian market, but the engine details have not been revealed yet. It is likely to be powered by a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine that generates a maximum power of 140 PS and 200 Nm. The diesel engine is expected to be same as the 1.5-litre diesel engine unit that powers the Mahindra Marazzo.

It generates a maximum of 123 PS and 300 Nm in the Marazzo and is expected to produce a similar power in the Mahindra XUV300 too. The petrol version of the Mahindra XUV300 is expected to return around 17 km/l while the diesel version will return approximately 20 km/l. Mahindra will not offer an automatic transmission with either engine options at the time of the launch, but it is expected to be launched at a later date. Mahindra may offer the AMT automatic transmission with the XUV300.

The Mahindra XUV300 is expected to be placed at a premium position in the market. The base price of the XUV300 is expected to start at around Rs. 8 lakh while the top-end version will be priced at around Rs. 12 lakh.

Also Read: This is how the new Suzuki Alto Works could look like

Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 caught testing in India [Video]

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Just a few days back we told you that Husqvarna will be launching its two most popular middle weight bikes in India by the end of this year. This was confirmed by Rajiv Bajaj himself. He further added that the Swedish brand will have more bikes in its lineup than KTM in India. Talking about the bikes, the Vitpilen and Svartpilen will be the first bikes to be launched by the company in India. They have been caught testing in India for a few times. However, down below is a video by K9IGHT RIDER INDIA which shows the bike on the move for probably the first time ever.

The bike in the video is the Husqvarna Vitpilen, covered in full camo decals. Going by the footage, we can say that the international version and the Indian version of the bike will be a bit different. This will be done to make the bike better suited for conditions here as well as to cut productions costs by sharing parts with KTM. The orange alloys on the test mule are from KTM, unlike the spoked wheels which the international variant gets. Furthermore, the test mule is also equipped with a rear grab rail.

To let you know, the Husqvarna brand is owned by KTM. Also, Bajaj now owns 47% stake in KTM which means that the Husky is also under Bajaj’s control to quite an extent.Talking about the bike, the Vitpilen is a retro, cafe racer styled bike with sporty riding position. However, it is a far cry from conventional cafe racers and features a radical design which fuses the DNA of a cafe racer with a lightweight naked performance bike.

Husqvarna Vitpilen 1

The Husqvarna Vitpilen is powered by a 373 cc, four stroke, DOHC, 4-valve, liquid-cooled motor with fuel injection which is the same unit which does the duty on KTM 390 series bikes. The engine produces 44 Bhp of peak power along with 37 Nm of torque and gets. A 6 speed manual gearbox is standard on the bike and so is a slipper clutch. Husqvarna bikes are known to be quite light weight motorcycles and therefore expect the performance to be an absolute blast.

In terms of pricing, the Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 and Vitpilen 401 are likely to be priced around Rs. 3 lakh price mark. They will take on the recently launched BMW 310 series bike along with providing an alternate to the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650. Others like the Kawasaki Ninja 300 and Yamaha R3 will also be seen the Husky as a competition. However, the biggest competition the Huskies will face is actually by their sister bike, that is, the KTM 390 Duke. It is powered by the same engine and is also priced cheaper. Husqvarna will pitch the bike in a way too woo the young target customers by its body styling and unique characteristics along with blistering performance.

Also Read: This is how the new Suzuki Alto Works could look like

This is how the new Suzuki Alto Works could look like

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Suzuki has planned to unveil the all new Alto in October this year. Why the company has chosen this month has something to do with the history of the car itself. The first Alto was showcased in the month of October, 1979 and therefore the same month in 2019 will mark the 40th anniversary of the car.

New Alto Render

However, the Alto that will be shown in October is not the Indian bound version but rather the JDM spec variant of the car. Also, the company is expected to showcase the ‘Works’ edition Alto, which will be a sportier take on popular family hatchback. The car pictured below is a render which illustrates how the new Alto Works edition would look like when launched.

Without a doubt, the rendered Alto above looks spectacular. As it is based on the international version of the Alto, don’t expect it to land here in India. If you look more closely, a lot of the design elements and body panels seem to be lifted off directly from the Suzuki Ignis. However, as this is just a render, the production spec Works edition of the new Alto may be quite different from this. Talking of the design, the car above gets sporty bumpers along with Ignis inspired headlamps and grille. The alloys too are sporty ones shod on with low profile rubber. The exciting looking blue and green paint job further gives it a sporty look.

The all-new Alto will be built on Suzuki’s HEARTECT platform that underpins almost all the Maruti Suzuki hatchbacks in India now. The HEARTECT platform is lighter and more stiffer than the one used on the current generation Alto. This translates into the car being lighter in weight and much safer too. The international version of the Alto is quite different from the Indian model visually too and is a lot more aggressive looking. It has a sportier stance and has various design elements that make it look very young and fresh.

Maruti Alto 800
Current Generation Alto (India)

The India bound Maruti Suzuki Alto will also be built upon the same platform. Also, since the upcoming safety norms (BNSVAP) require a car to be stronger and more safe, the Alto will meet the crash test norms and will be equipped with the basic safety features like airbags, ABS+EBD, rear parking sensors, driver seat-belt reminder and speed warning system. The main design theme of the Indian spec car may not be as loud as the JDM version, but it will be better than the previous model for sure.

Also, as the car will be lighter, both performance and fuel efficiency figures are likely to get boosted. As for the launch date, nothing is confirmed as of now but expect Maruti Suzuki to launch it by the third quarter of this year. The new Alto will also come with a host of new features that would hopefully include a touch infotainment system in the top variant.

Also Read: This is how the new Suzuki Alto Works could look like

Kawasaki Bajaj Caliber converted into a hot rod scrambler

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The Caliber series bikes were made during the time of manufacturing partnership between Bajaj and Kawasaki. Most of the bikes made by the duo of Bajaj-Kawasaki were good sellers and were fairly popular. For those of you who always had a liking for Kawa-Bajaj Caliber bike, here is a custom modified scrambler based on the Caliber 115. The regular commuter has been converted into a hot shot scrambler and it looks quite good. Let’s now checkout the video below by Bullet Singh Boisar before proceeding towards the details of this bike.

As seen in the video, the Caliber now looks very different to how it started its life in the assembly line. It has been given the typical scrambler look in a well proportioned package. However, the engine has not been tweaked so don’t expect it to go off the line like a rocket. The aftermarket exhaust fitted on the bike sure gives it a good exhaust note and it could also be providing the bike with a little spike in power. That being said, the bike is still quite fun to ride in the city due to its light weight and sporty stance. The bike you see in the video may be based on the Caliber 115 but now it is an amalgamation of various bikes in one. Let’s now get to know the changes made on the bike in detail.

Kawa Scrambler 2

Starting with the front, a new circular headlight now adorns the custom front fairing. The headlights are topped by a single pod instrument cluster which is an aftermarket unit and displays all the relevant information. The front fender, rims and tires are taken off from the Yamaha FZ and fitted on this bike after proper calibration. The front forks and the rear monoshock suspension too are ripped off from the Yamaha FZ. Then comes the tank, which is lifted off the Yamaha Libero. The scrambler-spec saddle is a custom made unit finished in a shade of tan.

The engine of the Caliber is a 111.6 cc unit and is pretty compact in size. The engine’ smallish size is the reason why there is so much space under the tank. Moving on, the rear swing arm is again picked up from the Yamaha FZ. Then comes the footrest, which are taken from the Pulsar 180. As we had already said that this bike is now an amalgamation of multiple bikes, the scrambler here has parts from total four bikes including the Caliber upon which it is based.

Kawa Scrambler

Other modifications on the bike include a chopped rear frame, LED light strip on the back of the seat which acts as the tail light, custom brake lever and the engine belly plate. The bike has been finished in a combination of blue-cyan paint job which looks decent to say the least. The total cost involved in this mod job is around Rs. 30,000 to Rs. 35,000, which again is quite good considering the amount of changes made on the bike.

Also Read: Yamaha FZ-S TVC highlights new features

First-time traffic offenders are being sent straight to JAIL in Hyderabad

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Break a traffic rule, you’ll go straight to jail, even if it’s the first time that you’ve committed a traffic  offence. This is exactly what is happening in Hyderabad, a city whose traffic rules are getting quite stringent. Recently, a man was sent to jail for riding a motorcycles without having a valid license, and he had to spend no less  than 4 days in jail, which also houses other criminals for much more serious crimes.

Image used for illustration

Here is what the first time traffic offender had to tell TheNewsMinute about his jail time for riding without a valid driving license,

I was terrified. In the nights we could hear some men who are serving life terms screaming and thrashing about in  their cells. Another day, one man banged his head into a glass window and started chasing everyone holding a piece of glass. I thought it would be just a fine that I have to pay at the court. But the judge while hearing the cases did  not even look at me. He was awarding jail time to everyone who was caught for traffic violations. Some people got two days jail time extra for just not raising their hand. Some second-time offenders were given 20 days jail time.

Another IT professional, who was busted for driving under the influence of alcohol, was also sent to jail for four  days. Here’s what he said about his jail time at Cherlapally jail while swearing to never ever drive under the influence of alcohol,

I will never drink and drive again in my life. I don’t want them to know. I have not informed my office either, just  took a four days casual leave. But I’m afraid my office people will find out, I heard the traffic police now send  letters to human resources saying an employee has been caught for drinking and driving. I don’t want anyone to go  through it. The food was horrible, the toilets were disgustingly dirty. It was cold at night and we were all freezing  as we were not given enough blankets. Initially, we were told that we could buy coupons that we could use at the jail  canteen but the canteen is open for hardly half an hour. I spent Rs 1,000 and bought coupons that remained unused, so I gave them off to others who were still in jail when I was leaving.

Also, jail time being awarded to first time traffic offenders in Hyderabad is limited to a certain court in  Kukatpally, whose judge is said to be extremely strict. The judge is said to apply the law by the book, without making any allowances even for first time offenders, who may generally get away with a fine in most other courts.

Chandrashekar, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Cyberabad (traffic), said,

I am seeing this trend of giving jail time to first-time offenders only in cases that go to the Kukatpally court.  I’m not seeing this trend at other courts in the city. The judge (at the Kukatpally court) is following the law, he  is giving punishments prescribed by the law. Everyone should follow the law.

While the trend of sending first time traffic offenders directly to jail instead of merely fining them is yet to  catch up in other courts of Hyderabad, and for that matter, other cities of India, it could well become the norm in  future. Traffic levels are rising across India, and so are traffic offences.

Many cities of India see extremely chaotic traffic with most riders and drivers showing blatant disrespect for the  law and fellow road users. If other judges at traffic courts around India start following the law to the letter, the  already overcrowded Indian jails could be full off traffic offenders.

As for Hyderabad, traffic offenders will now get the message loud and clear. Upon seeing other offenders go to jail  even for first time offences, it’s likely that the rest of the rule breaking citizenry will fall in line, and follow road rules religiously.

Also Read: Yamaha FZ-S TVC highlights new features

How far can the Tata Tiago go after the low fuel warning? [Video]

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The Tata Tiago is one of the best affordable hatchbacks in country right now. Tata offers the Tiago with a whopping 25 variants, which is quite a lot actually. Also, the Tiago is the most fuel efficient vehicle in its segment with a ARAI certified fuel efficiency rating of 23.84 km/l for the petrol powered variants and 27.28 km/l for the diesel powered variants.

Now, how much a car can travel after low fuel warning is a question which might have bothered you too at some point of life. It is said that curiosity is the mother of all inventions and the same today has led to this video by Ridiculously Amazing, which gives an answer to all those who had this question in mind.

The ‘Kitna Deti Hai’ question has become somewhat a slang, thrown at every manufacturer that launches a new car and every person that buys a new car. For some, mileage can be the deal maker or breaker and they might leave a better car in order to buy one with more mileage. However, we are talking about a different kind of ‘Kitna deti hai’ today. This test is done to test how far the Tata Tiago can go after the low fuel warning lights up in the instrument cluster.

The Tiago used in the test travels mostly in the city during the course of the video. Apparently, the owner of the car thought that the Tiago would stop withing 20 kms of the fuel earning light but that did not happen. Therefore, he continued the test the next morning. He again takes the car for a long spin and is amazed by how far the car can go on its reserve fuel. The video continues showing the car being driven and tested to its limits. It comes to a stop at last, when finally the engine runs out of fumes too. Since the point of start (low fuel warning) to the point of stop, the Tiago covered a total distance of about 77 kms, which actually is pretty decent.

Tata Tiago Xz+ 1

Manufacturers deliberately build such a system which begins to show low fuel warning when about 5-6 litres of fuel is still left in the car. The amount of fuel left in the car depends on the make and model also. This is done so as the car does not gets stranded in emergency situations and the driver fill the petrol after seeing the low fuel light. After the warning light flashes, most of the cars can easily go for upto 70-80 kms. However, always keep you car above the low fuel mark. This is because if the engine is regularly being run on very low fuel levels, it can get damaged. Therefore, make it a point to keep the fuel levels well above the empty marker on the fuel gauge if you want your car to run hassle free for long.

Also Read: Yamaha FZ-S TVC highlights new features


Meet the Toyota Fortuner that wants to be a Rs. 2.33 crore Lexus [Video]

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Toyota’s luxury car arm, Lexus is known for making some truly good looking cars. One of the finest and most famous examples of remarkable engineering and design by the company is the LFA supercar, which is considered to be the best sounding car by many enthusiasts. The company also makes a range of sedans, sports coupes and SUVs. Talking of the SUV, the LX 570 is one of the finest in its class and is based on the Toyota Landcruiser, albeit better looking and luxurious with the Lexxus badge.

Now a Fortuner has surface in India that sports the look of the Lexus LX 570 without taking your life savings. Take a look at the video below by Turbo Xtreme before we get into the details of this modified Toyota Fortuner.

The huge grille which now finds a place in the face of Toyota Fortuner is actually a signature Lexus design. going by the company’s own nomenclature, it is called as spindle grille. Of lately, it has become a distinguishing part of Lexus’s range of cars. We have seen various other examples of Toyota Innovas and Fortuners with spindle grille but this one looks far better in terms of fit and finish. The grille looks seamlessly transitioned into the Fortuner as if it came factory fitted. Let’s now move to the other details on the car.

Fortuner Lexus Mod

The whole front bumper has been replaced with a wider and lower piece to accommodate the spindle grille. Two inverted L-shaped LED DRLs have also been placed on either side which double up as indicators. The indicators function in a flowing type pattern which is seen on many luxury cars.

A big Toyota logo takes the centre stage on the front and matches well with the new grille. The sides get Fortuner marked fake vents which further enhance the appeal of the car. The side steps have been topped with a white cladding and a chrome strip now runs through the length of it. This is done to make the side step look more premium, in lieu with the Lexus LX 570 design.

Fortuner Mod Lexus 2

Moving to the rear end, a new bumper has replaced the stock unit here too. The bumper now is a lot more curvier and has dual tone paint shade on it. It gets two fake vents which actually are just chrome rings on the either side of the bumper. A chrome number plate garnish takes its place above the bumper. A Fortuner marked strip is also placed on the tail gate opening area to further enhance the bling factor as well as to prevent scratches during loading.

While the Big Daddy Lexus LX 570 would cost you Rs. 2.33 Crores, this little cosmetic job costs way too less compared to that figure. We are not saying that the Fortuner has become a Lexus after this. The point here is that this mod job makes it a poor man’s Lexus, though only if a Fortuner owner is to be considered poor.

Also Read: Yamaha FZ-S TVC highlights new features

Renault Kwid with ABS, Android Auto & new features LAUNCHED

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Renault has just launched the 2019 edition of the Kwid hatchback with a slew of updates, both in terms of safety and creature comforts. Prices are unchanged despite the feature additions, which means that the 2019 Renault Kwid offers much more value than before, making it better placed to take on the newly launched, 3rd generation Maruti WagonR.  Prices of the 2019 Renault Kwid start from Rs.  2.66 lakhs, making it one of the lowest priced cars in the country.

2019 Renault Kwid

The 2019 Renault Kwid now gets ABS as standard across all trims, along with a driver airbag, speed sensing door lock, ELR seatbelts even on the rear seat, reverse parking sensors and overspeeding alert. The top-end variants of the car also get Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone connectivity options on the touchscreen.

The AMT variants of the car get a crawl mode, which Renault calls ‘traffic assist’ mode. Apart from these feature  additions, the car remains similar to the 2018 version mechanically. Competition for the Kwid comes from the likes of  the Maruti Alto, Hyundai Santro, Tata Tiago and the recently launched new Maruti WagonR. The Kwid is Renault’s least priced offering, and is mainly aimed at first time car buyers.

The safety feature additions are meant to make the Kwid compliant with the upcoming Bharat New Vehicle Safety Assessment Program (BNVSAP) norms that come into effect from October 2019. It is not known if Renault has also strengthened the body structure of the Kwid in any way. A Global NCAP test that was conducted about a year ago revealed that the Kwid’s body structure was unstable.

The Kwid is based on the CMF-A platform. The CMF-A platform, or the common module family platform, has been jointly developed by Renault and Nissan to produce affordable cars with a high amount of parts sharing for emerging markets such as India and Latin America. Apart from the Kwid, the Datsun RediGo also uses the CMF-A platform, and soon, Renault will launch a low cost MPV based on this platform. The launch timeline for the RBC codenamed MPV is late 2019 in the Indian market.

Talking of the mechanical aspects of the Kwid, the car is available with 2 engine options – an 800cc-3 cylinder  petrol with about 57 Bhp on tap and a 1 liter-3 cylinder petrol that puts out 68 Bhp. Both engines get 5 speed manual  gearboxes as standard, and the bigger engine also gets a 5 speed AMT option. The Kwid’s butch styling and high ground clearance give it the stance of a mini-crossover, and Renault has even capitalized on this by launching the Climber edition of the car.

The Renault Kwid is available with a range of personalization options at the dealer level. These options allow owners  of the car to extensively customize their rides to make them stand out from the thousands of other Kwids on the  streets. Also, the personalization options will not void factory warranty, which is an added layer of safety for Kwid  owners.

Also Read: Yamaha FZ-S TVC highlights new features

Tata Motors to unveil 4 new cars at Geneva: Details

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Tata Motors is all set to make a big splash at this year’s Geneva Motor Show, which will be held in March. The  automaker will unveil not one, not two but four new cars, all of them having a production future of some sort. Here  are all the details.

The cars that Tata Motors will showcase at Geneva will include the H7X 7 seat SUV (the Harrier’s big brother), the  Hornbill micro SUV, a near-production version of the 45X premium hatchback, and also an electric version of the 45X. Of these cars, at least three of them are slated for production shortly.

45X

Tata 45x Render Red 1

The Tata 45X will be the first to reach production. By the festive season of 2019, the premium hatchback that will  challenge the likes of the Maruti Baleno and the Hyundai Elite i20 will be launched. The 45X will be based on the  Advanced Modular Platform, which Tata Motors now calls Alpha. This platform, which will underpin many new Tata cars in future is the automaker’s take on Volkswagen MQB platform.

The 45X is expected to be offered with turbocharged petrol and diesel engines, which could possibly be borrowed from the Nexon. 6 speed manual gearboxes are likely to be offered with both engines, and Tata could debut a twin clutch AMT unit at a later date. The car will be feature loaded, and the largest hatchback that Tata Motors has ever launched.

45X Electric

The electric version of the Tata 45X will be showcased as a concept at Geneva, but with a production future in mind.  Electric cars are likely to become big come 2020, and the 45X Electric could be one of the cars that Tata Motors has  in mind when it shifts to electric vehicles.

H7X

Tata H7x 7 Seat Suv Iab Rendering

Render courtesy IAB

Tata Motors is working on a 7 seat version of the Harrier, which will have the same wheelbase as the Harrier but with  a longer body and an extra row of seats. The 7 seat Harrier is just months away from launch, and is expected to make it to the market by the end of 2019.

It’ll use the OMEGA platform of the Harrier, and the 2 liter turbocharged diesel engine. The engine will make higher  power and torque though, at 170 Bhp-380 Nm. The 6 speed manual gearbox will be carried over, and a 6 speed Hyundai sourced torque converter automatic will alo be on offer.

Hornbill

Tata Hornbill Render 3

Tata Motors is working on a micro SUV that will rub shoulders with the likes of the Mahindra KUV100, and possibly  even the Maruti Ignis. Called the Hornbill for now, the micro SUV will be based on the Alpha platform. It will sit  below the Nexon in terms of price and positioning, as Tata Motors’ cheapest SUV offering. The Hornbill is expected to share its engines and gearboxes with the 45X premium hatchback. The car is expected to get butch yet funky styling elements. It’ll be launched in India sometime in 2020.

Via ACI

Also Read: Yamaha FZ-S TVC highlights new features

Shahid Kapoor gets a Ducati Scrambler 1100

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Motorcycling in India is getting a lot of traction of late. While many youngsters are buying and participating in motorcycling events more than ever. Even the movie stars have caught up with the trend, and many Bollywood actors regularly go for the motorcycling rides. Shahid Kapoor, who is a known motorcycle aficionado for a long time has bought a brand-new Ducati Scrambler 1100.

Ducati Shahid 1

The Ducati Scrambler 1100 was launched last year in India priced at Rs. 10.91 lakh, ex-showroom, Delhi. The Scrambler 1100 is available in three variants in India. There is a base version Scrambler 1100, Scrambler 1100 Special, and Scrambler 1100 Sport. The one that Shahid Kapoor bought is the Scrambler 1100 Special, which gets spoked rims. The variant is priced at Rs. 11.12 lakhs.

The special edition gets brushed aluminium parts that look extremely good with the moody blue-grey colour of the bike. The highlights are on the radiator shroud, mudguards and the swing arm. The bike also gets glitzy chrome highlight on the header. It also features a retro-looking brown seat. With the added features, the bike is priced Rs. 20,000 more than the base variant of the bike.

Shahid Kapoor Ducati Scrambler Featured

The Ducati Scrambler 1100 owned by Shahid is an all-new model that was launched last year in the market. The bike gets an all-new chassis and new electronic riding aids. It also gets ride-by-wire with three riding modes – Active, Journey and City. The bike gets a 1,079cc, liquid-cooled, L-Twin engine that churns out a maximum power of 85 Bhp at 7,600 rpm and 88 Nm of peak torque at 4,750 rpm. The Active and Journey version produce a maximum of 85 Bhp; the City mode produces a maximum of 75 Bhp. The throttle response also changes during various modes and the City mode has the smoothest power output. The bike gets a 6-speed transmission.

The Scrambler 1100 gets a four-level traction control system, which can be adjusted for various situations. It also gets Bosch cornering ABS with big piston brake pads, adjustable clutch and brake levers. The levers can be adapted for stiffness and travel, giving the perfect setting for the rider.

The Ducati Scrambler 1100 looks extremely good and has the iconic design. It looks twin under-seat exhausts with revised ergonomics. The bike gets a new-age instrument cluster which is inspired by the old bikes of the 1970s. The Scrambler 1100 steel-trellis frame with a double-sided aluminium swingarm. The Ducati Scrambler 1100 takes on the Suzuki GSX-S1000 and the Triumph Street Triple.

Shahid Kapoor was seen riding the bike on the streets with a full face bandana to hide his identity. He also posed with his daughter with the bike. Shahid Kapoor also owns a Harley-Davidson Fatboy, which he rides around a lot. Shahid also owns vehicles like Mercedes-Benz S-Class and previously owned a Jaguar XK-R too. Shahid has also been spotted riding various motorcycles including Royal Enfield Classic 500 too.

Also Read: Yamaha FZ-S TVC highlights new features

Mahindra XUV300 Detailed Image Gallery : 40+ pictures inside

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Mahindra’s much awaited compact SUV, the XUV300 will be launched on 14th February in India. We drove this vehicle in Goa earlier this week and while the review is embargoed till 6th (Wednesday), lets have a closer look at the SUV via the images below. Do note we cannot share our opinions, even on the design, till a few more days. Nevertheless, here we go:

23mahindra Xuv300 Pictures

We got the Dark Green (Turquoise) color option during the test drive. The rear of the XUV300 is dirty as we took it off the road for a minutes too
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Dual tone roof is seen here, finished in white (including the spoiler)
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Top spec XUV300 seen here. Location is Verna Industrial Area, Goa
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Low angle shot of the front end. All important design elements visible here.
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Another shot. We have kept the headlamp, DRL and fog lamps ON for the shoot.
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A view of the alloy wheel design and the fog lamp inserts. Also notice the faux silver skid plate
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This is how the XUV300 looks from the rear as compared to the Ssangyong Tivoli, the car it is based on
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Low angle shot showcases the ground clearance of the SUV
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Side angle shows the length, wheelbase and ground clearance.
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Also on the shoot was a red color option with a white roof. What is your pick?
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My reaction at the end of the drive!
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A wide shot of the cabin of the XUV300 W8
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A side view of the cabin. As seen in earlier images by Mahindra, it has a dual tone theme
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A view of the second row of the XUV300. Both seats adjusted for a 5’11” driver.
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A look at the back of the front seats.
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This is how the power window controls look like (driver side door)
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View of the steering wheel mounted controls
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These are the controls for the climate control. A LCD display is also visible here.
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This is how the touchscreen infotainment looks like. Controls also visible in the lower part of the picture. You can also see the air-con vents
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Speedometer console : various parameters on display
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Close up of the steering and central console
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The glovebox of the XUV300
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Storage space for your mobile phone in front of the gear lever – charging outlets visible here
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Open space above the glovebox. Door mounted tweeter visible here
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Cup holders placed behind the gear lever
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Sunglass holder  – also visible is the button for the sunroof
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Boot space : notice the 60:40 split for the rear seats.
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We drove the car for a good 7-8 hours in Goa
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As there is an embargo in place, we can’t tell you about the ride and handling or the performance!
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What all do know is that the XUV300 will be offered with 1.2 turbo petrol and 1.5 turbo diesel units
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Side profile view with the SUV in motion
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Can the XUV300 kick up a storm in the segment?
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Some more motion shots will follow below…
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Mahindra owns a majority stake in Korean company Ssangyong. This is based on the Ssangyong Tivoli but modified for India
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Modifications include a shorter length and different front and rear ends
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As seen, this is the W8 model (badge visible) – some online reports suggest there will be three variants on offer (W4, W6, W8)
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Our review with opinions will be online at 12 pm on 6th February. Pricing will be out on 14th.
6mahindra Xuv300 Pictures

 

Also Read: Yamaha FZ-S TVC highlights new features

Mahindra XUV300 vs Hyundai Creta: What the new Mahindra looks in front of bigger competition

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Mahindra will launch the XUV300 and reveal the pricing for the line-up on 14th February. However, one thing is clear that the XUV300 will be positioned as a premium compact SUV. This also means the higher versions will rub shoulders with the entry level models of the Hyundai Creta. We managed to snap both the vehicles together earlier this week and this is how they look:

2xuv300 Vs Creta

The Creta is a proper 4m+ SUV but the XUV300 is a wider vehicle. Both the vehicles have an almost similar height though shockingly, the XUV300, as per online reports, has a 3mm longer wheelbase than that of the Creta. Will this be a threat to the Hyundai offering? In terms of alloy wheels, though not seen here, the top spec Creta does offer you 17 inch wheels, similar to the size on the XUV300.

In terms of pricing, the top end, fully loaded XUV300 is speculated to carry an ex-showroom price of about Rs 9-10 lakh for the petrol and Rs 10-11 lakh for the diesel model. In comparison, the entry level Creta carries an ex-showroom price of Rs 9.6 lakh for the petrol and Rs 9.9 for the diesel equipped version. This clearly means that those looking at the lower models of the Creta will want to test drive the XUV300 as well. A basic version of a larger SUV or a fully loaded variant of a smaller SUV?

4xuv300 Vs Creta

The Creta is a feature loaded SUV but we can’t say the same about the entry level versions. This is where Mahindra will have an easy time selling the fully loaded XUV300. It will also offer better safety, with as many as 7 Airbags and an advanced ESP (on the top spec model). That said, the Creta will definitely offer more space on the inside including a larger boot. If you have the money, the Creta also offers an automatic and a bigger 1.6 diesel unit. The entry level petrol though offers a punchy 1.6 unit.

Though we have driven the XUV300 extensively, there is an embargo on our review and opinions till 12 noon 6th Feb. This is the reason why can’t tell you which of the two SUVs we like in terms of design in this article. However, pictures speak louder than words, right?

3xuv300 Vs Creta

For the uninitiated, the XUV300 is based on the Ssangyong Tivoli and has been revised for the Indian car market. This includes revised exteriors and other updates like a Marazzo derived 1.5-litre diesel motor. Also, the XUV300 is expected to come with a 4-star safety rating. Mahindra claims this is also the most fun to drive car in the segment.

Also Read: Yamaha FZ-S TVC highlights new features

Yamaha FZ-S TVC highlights new features

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Yamaha India launched the new FZ V3 and the FZ-S V3 in the Indian market last month. The new FZ V3 is priced at Rs. 95,000 while the FZ-S FI is priced at Rs. 97,000. Yamaha has released a new TVC which highlights the features of the new bike. Here is the TVC.

The new TVC highlights features like the LED headlight, ABS, FI technology, higher handle position, class-leading tyre width, more masculine styling and more comfortable dual-level seat of the bike. Yamaha earlier released the TVC of the FZ V3 too, and this is a separate video.

The new FZ-S V3 is the beefier version of the two bikes and gets extra muscles on it. Even though Yamaha has added the V3 suffix that suggests a generation-update for the FZ series, the changes are only cosmetic. However, they are quite substantial, and the bikes look way different from the outgoing bikes.

The new updates include the addition of new LED headlamp, which is inspired by the Yamaha M-Slaz naked bike sold in the South East Asian markets. The bike also gets all-new instrument cluster. The all-digital instrument cluster has grown in size and now shows more information. It has been designed to be visible even under the direct sunlight. To make the motorcycle look much more muscular and powerful, Yamaha has added new tank extensions to the bike that gives it a very raw look.

Yamaha has also updated the riding position of the bike and has installed a 22mm higher handlebar. It makes the rider sit upright in a more comfortable position. The seat of the bike is also new. It now gets a single-piece seat which is two-level replacing the older split seats of the bike. The Yamaha FZ-S V3 also gets a new more muscular belly pan. The rear tail section of the Yamaha FZ-S V3 remains unchanged, and it looks similar to the previous model. Also adding to the new design is the new exhaust design of the bike, which has been taken from the Yamaha FZ-25.

Both the FZ and the FZ-S retain the engine from the last generation bike, and no changes have been made to it. It is a 149cc single-cylinder, air-cooled, fuel-injected engine that generates a maximum power of 13.2 PS at 8,000 rpm and a peak torque of 12.8 Nm at 6,000 rpm. Yamaha says that the bike now offers a much better low-end torque. Even the front and rear suspension have been retained from the previous bike. Yamaha is expected to launch a new, more powerful version of the FZ range next year.

Yamaha Fz Z Tvc

To meet the upcoming safety rules, which makes it mandatory for all the two-wheelers that are powered by the 125cc or larger engine to offer ABS, Yamaha has added a single-channel ABS too. However, there are disc brakes on both the front and rear wheels of the bike.

Also Read: Yamaha FZ-S TVC highlights new features


Tata Harrier towers over the Nexon: Images!

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The Tata Harrier is the latest SUV in the Indian car market. Tata Motors is said to have racked up over 20,000 bookings for this SUV, which has been priced very well. Test drives of the Harrier have begun in full swing at most Tata dealerships around India. Here’s one such Tata Harrier test drive vehicle standing next to its smaller sibling, the Nexon.

Tata Harrier Vs Tata Nexon Featured

Images courtesy Team-BHP

As the pictures reveal, the Harrier simply towers over the Tata Nexon. While we have brought you a similar picture in the past, the latest images show the Harrier and the Nexon in the same copper colour standing next to each other, and in various angles. The Harrier’s not just much taller than the Nexon but is also wider and longer. These bigger dimensions underscore the SUV-ness of the Harrier in front of the crossover-ish looks of the Nexon.

While the Nexon looks like a raised hatchback to many, the Harrier hits the true-blue SUV territory in terms of looks and street presence. In fact, the Harrier looks bigger than one of its prime competitors – the Jeep Compass. Obviously, it’s much larger than another competitor – the Hyundai Creta – and also looks the part. All in all, the Tata Harrier seems to have absolutely nailed the street presence bit.

Tata Harrier Vs Tata Nexon 1

Prices of the Tata Harrier start from Rs. 12.69 lakhs, which makes it a lot cheaper than the Jeep Compass. In fact, even top-end variant of the Hyundai Creta and the entry-level variant of the Mahindra XUV500 are pricier than the Harrier, and this gives the Tata SUV a distinct edge when it comes to value-for-money. The SUV is currently available with a single engine-gearbox option, and this somewhat limits its appeal as the competitors offer a lot more options.

Tata Harrier Vs Tata Nexon 2

The Harrier is powered by a 2 liter turbocharged diesel engine sourced from Fiat. This motor makes 140 Bhp of peak power and 350 Nm of peak torque, and is paired to a 6 speed manual gearbox. The Harrier is front wheel driven but gets multiple driving modes that also includes an off-road mode for low grip conditions. A 6 speed torque converter automatic gearbox for the Harrier will arrive by the end of this year.

Sourced from Hyundai, the automatic gearbox for the Harrier is expected to make the SUV a lot more attractive. The number of Indian car buyers opting for automatic cars in the 10 lakh+ segment is growing exponentially, and the Harrier needs to have an automatic option quickly. Tata Motors is also said to be working on a petrol powered version of the SUV, apart from a petrol-hybrid version. These variants are at least a year away from launch though.

Tata Motors will launch a 7 seat sibling to the Harrier by the end of this year. Code-named the H7X, the larger SUV will offer three rows of seating and a longer body shell. However, the wheelbase will be the same as the Harrier. The diesel engine and gearbox options will also be carried over to the new SUV. However, the engine is expected to get a power and torque boost to handle the extra bulk the H7X comes with.

Also Read: Honda CB 300R with an aftermarket exhaust sounds real ANGRY [Video]

Mahindra XUV300 bags over 4,000 bookings as launch nears

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A few days ago, Mahindra dealers across India began accepting bookings for the upcoming XUV300. Mahindra has already bagged over 4,000 bookings for the new vehicle. The compact SUV – which will rival the likes of the Maruti Brezza, Ford EcoSport and Tata Nexon, will be officially launched in India on the 14th of February, 2019. The Mahindra XUV300 is a sub-4 meter compact SUV that’s expected to have a starting price between Rs. 7-8 lakhs.

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The initial reviews of the Mahindra XUV300 have been quite positive, and full of praise for the latest sub-4 meter  SUV. The XUV300 has a measure of competition in terms of performance. The SUV is the most powerful in its class in  diesels. The XUV300 is powered by a 1.5 liter turbodiesel motor borrowed from the much larger Marazzo MPV. This motor makes 121 Bhp-300 Nm on the XUV300, and is paired to a 6 speed manual gearbox. The next most powerful SUV – the Nexon Diesel – makes 108 Bhp-260 Nm.

Talking of petrols, the XUV300 leads the score here as well in terms of torque. The SUV is powered by a new, 1.2  liter turbocharged petrol engine with 115 Bhp-200 Nm outputs. The 200 Nm of torque is a segment leading number with the next best figures coming from the Tata Nexon (170 Nm) and the Ford EcoSport EcoBoost (170 Nm). The EcoSport however, is more powerful than the XUV300 in terms of absolute numbers, with both the Dragon petrol and EcoBoost units of the SUV making 120 Bhp and 125 Bhp respectively.

Moving on, the XUV300 also offers segment leading safety features. 7 airbags including a driver’s knee airbag, ABS  +EBD, hill hold assist, front and rear parking sensors, a rear parking camera, ESP and traction control are the  various safety features on offer. In terms of features too, Mahindra has really loaded up the SUV. From an electric sunroof to multiple ‘steering feel’ settings, the XUV300 offers a lot more than competition.

The Mahindra XUV300 is based on the Ssangyong Tivoli’s X100 platform. It will get a larger, 7 seat sibling in future.  For now though, the focus will be squarely on the front wheel driven, monocoque bodied 5 seat option. The Mahindra XUV300 is expected to sit at a similar position as the TUV300 but in terms of refinement and feature levels, the new SUV is a lot more advanced. Sometime by the end of this year, Mahindra is expected to add an AMT option to the XUV300.

Early next year, another key change on the XUV300 will be the addition of an all-electic variant. The Mahindra XUV300 Electric is expected to have a range of 250 Kms and a competitive top speed of about 150 Kph. Acceleration will also be very brisk, with the 0-100 Kph run taking about 11 seconds. What remains to be seen is whether Mahindra manages to price the XUV300 Electric competitively.

Via Auto.NDTV

Also Read: Honda CB 300R with an aftermarket exhaust sounds real ANGRY [Video]

Tata Harrier vs Hexa vs Safari Storme: Who should buy what

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Tata new-age product line-up is extremely attractive, and there is a wide range of choice now. With the new car launches like the Tata Harrier and the Hexa in the same model line up as the iconic Tata Safari Storme, choosing the right SUV from the Tata brand can become a task. Well, we are here to make that choice easy for you. If you are out in the market and are planning to buy a Tata SUV but are confused between the three vehicles, here is something to make your decision easy.

Tata Safari Storme

Who should buy? People looking for a rugged off-roader and a powerful highway cruiser

Tata Safari is the only car among the three that comes with a low-range transfer case, which makes its off-roading capability extremely good and better than the other two. Tata Safari Storme is also available in the 4X2 models and looks exceptionally rugged. It will suit the people who want to use the vehicle on rough roads. The Tata Safari Storme 4X4 is only available with the Varicor 400 engine.

It is the same 2.2-litre engine that also powers the Tata Hexa and is much more potent than the Tata Harrier’s engine. The 2.2-litre diesel engine powering the Safari Storme 4X4 churns out a maximum power of 154 Bhp and a peak torque of 400 Nm. It gets a 6-speed transmission. The 4X4 Safari Storme is priced at Rs. 16.16 lakh, ex-Delhi.

Tata Harrier

Who should buy? New-age and young buyers who want a good looking daily driving vehicle with highway capabilities

Tata Harrier 18

The Tata Harrier was launched recently in the Indian market and it offers incredible value-for-money. The Harrier looks unique with its new-age front-end design that houses the LED DRLs and the headlamps separately. The Harrier also offers a modern-age instrument cluster with a 7.1-inch LCD screen and segment-leading touchscreen infotainment system with a 9-speaker system with a sub-woofer.

The Harrier is a five-seater vehicle that does not come with a 4WD set-up. It is perfect for the customers who want to go away for the occasional highway drives and roam around on the city roads most of the time. Also, the Harrier is only offered with a manual transmission at the moment. It gets powered by a 2.0-litre KRYOTEC engine that develops a maximum power of 138 Bhp and 350 Nm. Prices start from Rs. 12.69 lakhs.

Tata Hexa

Who should buy? Family car buyers who want maximum comfort and a capable vehicle

Tata Hexa Official Accesories 2

The Tata Hexa is a 7-seater vehicle that can fit big families without much problem. The Hexa also looks quite good, especially with its sleek European design. The Tata Hexa offers a comfortable cabin space. Tata also offers a 4WD system with the Hexa and it comes with an automatic hill descent system too. Prices start from Rs. 12.99 lakhs.

The Tata Hexa is offered with the 2.2-litre diesel engine that is available with two states of tunes. The lower variants get the 148 Bhp – 320 Nm version while the top-end variants offer 154 Bhp – 400 Nm. It 320 Nm version gets a 5-speed transmission while the more powerful version of the engine gets a 6-speed transmission. There is also a 6-speed automatic transmission available with the Hexa 4X2 variants.

Also Read: Honda CB 300R with an aftermarket exhaust sounds real ANGRY [Video]

2019 Bajaj Dominar 400 to get a power and torque boost, bookings open

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Bajaj Auto is just weeks away from launching the 2019 Dominar 400 in India. Bajaj dealers across India have already begun taking bookings for the updated sports cruiser. Sales dispatches of last month also reveal a steep decline in Dominar 400 shipments, which is the clearest indication that the new model is indeed ready for launch. A report on ZigWheels suggests that the 2019 Dominar will get a power and torque boost thanks to a DOHC engine head.

2019 Bajaj Dominar Latest Image

Currently, the Bajaj Dominar 400 uses a single overhead camshaft operating the four valves. The new head is said to be larger in order to accommodate the triple spark design of the Dominar, along with the twin overhead camshafts. If you’ve been following the Dominar’s development closely, you’ll know that the motorcycle essentially uses the 373.2cc engine of the Duke 390, but with a revised engine head that has a single overhead camshaft instead of twin cams of the KTM, and three spark plugs instead of one on the KTM’s motor.

By now giving the 2019 Dominar 400 a twin cam head, Bajaj Auto is going closer to the KTM Duke 390’s engine. This is perhaps the reason why the power and torque figures of the 2019 Bajaj Dominar have gone up. The KTM Duke 390’s motor makes 44 Bhp-37 Nm while the pre-facelift Dominar 400 made 35 Bhp-35 Nm. The new, 2019 Dominar is expected to get at least a couple of horses extra thanks to the new engine head. We also expect an increase in refinement levels as twin cam engines are generally more refined at higher rpms than single cam engines.

The 2019 Dominar wil have many other changes. It will get upside down front forks, a twin barrel exhaust design, new rear view mirrors, updated instrument cluster, a larger radiator and also a revised belly pan. Many other improvements to overall refinement are likely to be made on the 2019 Dominar. A price increase is also very likely, and the non-ABS version of the bike is expected to be discontinued. The current Dominar with dual channel ABS is priced at Rs. 1.63 lakhs.

The new version could command a premium of as much as Rs. 10,000 to account for the various changes it comes with. The Dominar is Bajaj Auto’s flagship motorcycle, and is a sports tourer that’s been trying to break into the market dominated by Royal Enfield. So far, the Dominar has had limited success in terms of sales, and Bajaj Auto has just about managed to sell 1,000-1,500 Dominars each month. The motorcycle is also exported from India. The updated version may give the Dominar a big boost in terms of sales, and this is what Bajaj Auto will be hoping for.

Also Read: Honda CB 300R with an aftermarket exhaust sounds real ANGRY [Video]

10 car features that are absolutely ESSENTIAL

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Modern cars come equipped with many features and amenities that were thought of as super luxury some time back. For people who spend most of their time in the rear seats, comfort and features are the two most important aspects when choosing a car. However, some of the features are more important than others. Now some features like ABS and airbags have been made standard on cars by the upcoming government safety norms. However, there are still many features that you should not miss while buying a new car. Here are ten such features which are essential if you plan to keep your car for a long time.

Rear wash wipe and defogger

Rear Wiper, Washer and Defogger
Rear Wiper, Washer and Defogger

Front wash wipers and defogger have become a part of a car’s stand feature list since long. However, rear wash wipe and defogger are still something that many manufacturers don’t offer as standard. It is quite a cheap piece of technology which enhances driving convenience and why is it not a part of standard fitment is something that can be attributed to cost cutting by the companies. On cold nights and rainy conditions, a rear wash wiper/defogger can be an absolute blessing.

Height adjustable drivers seat

Adjustability is something that flows in the blood of us Indians. The same has been taken for granted by many manufacturers, who do not offer height adjustable seats in even higher priced cars. People come in all shapes and sizes, which is why it is really important to have height adjustable seats. A perfect seating position goes a long way in making your drive enjoyable. It also makes a person more comfortable while driving and gives a better view of the road ahead.

Telescopic and tilt steering

Alturas Steering

Steering wheels come in all shapes and sizes; some big, some small. Some angled down and some a little bit too much away from the body. As it is the chief operating unit through which a driver controls the car, it should be adjustable so that every driver gets comfortable while holding it. Telescopic function on steering (also called reach) enables front and back adjustment while tilt function enables up-down adjustment. A definite must have in any modern car then.

Parking camera or sensors

With the number of vehicles on road increasing day by day, parking spaces are becoming more and more tighter. The pain is real for big SUV owners, who often rub their vehicle off something while parking. Parking cameras provide a huge relief in this aspect as they show you the path to be followed along with obtrusion distance. Even if the car you are interested in does not come with a parking camera, make sure it is equipped with parking sensors at least.

Infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple Car play

Hyundai Elantra Touchscreen

A touchscreen infotainment system is also a must now if you are planning on using your car for long and making a big investment. Android Auto and Apple Car Play are an added bonus, as they sync your phone to the car’s system and make things pretty easy on the go. Infotainment system allow you to navigate using maps, listen to good music apart from countless other functions. Ford’s infotainment has a function that calls emergency services upon detecting an accident.

Climate control

Climate control is actually a more sophisticated form of air conditioning which does all the work automatically. Once a particular temperature is set, it automatically adjusts the fan speed and amount of cold air inside the cabin to maintain the set temperature. If not dual zone climate control, make sure that you get a car with single zone climate control atleast. This however applies if you buy a car above Rs. 5 lakhs- 6 lakhs.

Electrochromic ORVM and RVM or manual night mode

elantra-orvms-heated

Driving at night is not the best option to choose. However, if you often travel at night, make sure the car you buy is equipped with electrochromic outside and inside rear view mirrors. With most of the drivers not taking the pains to switch to low beam, it definitely comes as a savior. These types of mirrors adjust the reflection according to the light following on them and don’t blind the driver when they look at it.

Electrically adjustable wing mirrors preferably with auto fold function

Now that we have talked about electrochromic mirrors, next come electrically adjustable mirrors. The biggest benefit with them is that you can adjust them without even opening your window. You can get all possible angles at just a touch of a button and that further enhances the driving experience. Also, if the car comes with auto mirror fold function, that’s even better. This function allows the mirror to fold when the ignition is turned off and back again when the key is put in.

Cruise Control

2018 Maruti Ciaz Facelift Cruise Control

Cruise control is a feature not found on budget cars. However, if you are investing big on your car, say above Rs. 10 lakhs, you should lookout if the car you are about to buy comes with cruise control or not. This feature allows you to relax a bit as it takes control of the throttle. One can set a particular speed range and the car will maintain that. It is also very beneficial for the engine and is a very good funtion to use on long stretches of highways.

One Touch down driver side window

Last but certainly not the least, one touch down windows can be really convenient while driving. A simple yet nifty feature, it proves to be useful while going through toll gates, police checking or any such condition were the driver needs to lower his window. Instead of continuously pressing the down button, only a touch by the driver can bring his window full down. Therefore, check before buying whether your car has a driver side one touch down window or not.

Also Read: Honda CB 300R with an aftermarket exhaust sounds real ANGRY [Video]

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