Hyundai launched two new SUVs on our shores in the past few months in the form of the Venue and the Kona EV. With this, the South Korean manufacturer now offers a total of four SUVs in India including the Creta and the Tucson apart from the two mentioned earlier. Now all of them belong to a different segment and have a varying price range but the top variants of the lower-priced SUV and the lower variants of the higher-priced SUVs overlap with each other. This creates confusion for an average buyer for the final buying decision. For the same, here are all the four Hyundai SUVs on offer in India categorised according to the type of buyer they best cater to.

Want a fuel-efficient SUV for city runs – Venue diesel

The sub-4 meter SUV challenger by Hyundai has already proved its mettle in the market by becoming the second best selling vehicle in its segment. The diesel-powered variants of the Venue are perfect for those who want a chic little SUV for city use that is high on mileage and packs a decent punch in terms of features and power too. The diesel engine on offer here is a 1.4-litre unit that puts out 89 Bhp of power along with 220 Nm of torque and delivers ARAI certified fuel efficiency of 23.7 km/l. Prices for the diesel variants of the Venue start at Rs. 7.75 lakh while the top-end diesel variant is priced at Rs. 10.84 lakh.

Want a feature-rich and powerful SUV for city use- Venue 1.0 petrol

Hyundai offers the Venue with 3 engine and gearbox options which means that the sub-4 meter SUV has something for everyone. If you have your eyes set for an SUV that is pretty feature-rich and packs a solid punch in terms of engine output but your usage is mostly limited to city limits, the Venue 1.0 petrol is the one for you. It can be a pretty decent highway runner too but sub-4 meter SUVs are always happier withing the city limits. The 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine here churns out an impressive 118 Bhp of power along with 172 Nm of torque and comes with both manual and DCT gearbox options. The top-end turbo petrol variant comes equipped with features like an air filter, sunroof, wireless charger, 8-inch infotainment system with Bluelink connectivity and projector fog lamps among others.

Want a spacious and fuel-efficient but affordable SUV – Creta 1.4 diesel

The Hyundai Creta has long been the best selling vehicle in its segment. Though the current generation model has been in the market for some time now, the 1.4 diesel engine version of the Creta makes for an excellent choice if you are looking for a spacious and fuel-efficient but affordable SUV. With prices starting from Rs. 9.99 lakh, the Creta 1.4 diesel has enough space to seat five adults comfortably all the while delivering an impressive fuel economy of 21.38 km/l. The 1.4-litre diesel engine here produces 89 Bhp of power along with 220 Nm of torque.

Want a powerful and fuel-efficient SUV for both highway and city runs – Creta 1.6 diesel

If you want an SUV that offers the best of both worlds, that is, a powerful engine coupled with impressive fuel economy, and plan to use it both or city and highway usage, the Creta 1.6 diesel manual is the perfect vehicle for you. It is powered by a 1.6-litre diesel engine that churns out 126 Bhp of power along with 260 Nm of torque and comes mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. This engine gearbox combination provides an impressive fuel economy of 19.67 km/l and prices for Creta 1.6 diesel manual start from Rs. 13.60 lakh

Want a stylish family SUV – Tucson

The Tucson has long been the flagship SUV of Hyundai in India until the recent launch of the Kona EV.  Though it has become a bit long in the tooth now, it is still quite a solid package for a family guy considering the fact that Hyundai regularly offers discounts up to Rs. 1-2 lakh on the SUV. Therefore, if you want a stylish and spacious family SUV, the Tucson is a good deal for you if there is a good discount deal going on. Prices for the Tucson start at Rs. 18.74 lakhs and comes with both petrol and diesel engine options. Hyundai also offers an automatic gearbox option with both the engines.

Want a new age electric SUV with a good range – Kona

The Hyundai Kona is the first EV by Hyundai in India and also the first long-range EV of India. Brought to India via the CKD route, the Kona is priced at Rs. 25.30 lakh and has a claimed range of 452 km on a full charge. It is perfect for those who want a high-tech EV that will not only make them stand out of the crowd but also provide them with a unique ownership experience. It is powered by an electric motor that generates 135 Bhp of peak power and 395 Nm of peak torque enabling the Kona to sprint from 0-100 Kmph in just 9.7 seconds. The battery takes about 6 hours to be recharged on a standard household socket while a fast charger can charge the battery to 80 % of its capacity in less than an hour.

With the government pushing for EVs and developing required infrastructure rapidly, it is a good bet since it has a usable range and several high-end features. Also, the ex-showroom price of the Kona will come down from the 1st of August since the GST on EVs has been reduced to 5%. Further, the government is giving substantial tax rebates for those who apply for a loan while buying the Kona EV.

Want a diesel SUV but with an auto box – Creta diesel AT

Now if you don’t want a big SUV but still are looking an SUV that is spacious enough for 5 adults, has decent boot space, comes with a diesel engine and lastly, has an automatic gearbox, the Hyundai Creta diesel AT is the vehicle for you. Prices for the base variant of the diesel-powered Creta with automatic transmission start from Rs. 13.36 lakh. It is powered by a 1.6-litre diesel engine that churns out 126 Bhp of power along with 260 Nm of torque. The Creta diesel AT can easily do its duty both in the city as well as high with the convenience of an auto box, all the while providing a mixed economy of 17.01 km/l.

Want a powerful SUV with AWD to go beyond roads – Tucson AWD

The only SUV in Hyundai’s lineup in India that offers AWD is the Tucson. The top-end GLS diesel variant of the SUV comes with an AWD which allows it to go beyond the regular paved surfaces. The engine on this variant is a 2.0-litre inline-four unit that belts out 182 Bhp of power along with 400 Nm of torque. This engine comes mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox. Being the top-end variant, it comes with a decent level of kit also but all that comes at a price, which stands at a staggering Rs. 26.95 lakh. A decent deal if you get a good discount.

All prices mentioned are ex-showroom, Delhi. 

Also Read: Mahindra & Tata Motors to shut down production of cars & SUVs to trim inventory levels

The busy and chaotic roads of Kolkata demand a car that is powerful, fuel efficient and capable of a lot of exertion. Considering these factors, diesel cars are often the best bet. Have you been looking for used diesel cars in Kolkata? Do you not want to overshoot 3 lakh with your purchase? If yes, then here is presenting five of the best deals for diesel cars in Kolkata, tailor made for your requirements. You might think your demands are too specific, but even with your specific needs you will be bombarded with a whole host of options on leading car websites. Moreover, they will have listings of cars that have not been neatly sorted, and hence are not in a position to give you meaningful insights. How do you arrive at choosing the perfect car then? Used car websites are usually of little use, even with their multiple filters. The task of sorting the information is still yours, and who wants to be digging a data mine? Fortunately, we have got just the right solution for you through the Cartoq TRUE PRICE.

By deploying the Cartoq TRUE PRICE , we help you identify the best deals. The Cartoq Data Science team has built a Machine Learning model that estimates the TRUE PRICE of a used car, after accounting for all sorts of variables – brand, model, age, mileage, and car type.  With all factors accounted for, the model predicts the TRUE PRICE, which then becomes the basis of comparison across cars. The best deals are those where listed price is lower than the TRUE PRICE. So we scan through the car listings across major used car sites, compute their TRUE PRICE, and present the best deals for you.

The shortlist for this article was based on the analysis we ran on August 7, 2019; so by the time you read this article, there is a good chance that the specific car may no longer be available.
However, this list still provides plenty of useful pointers even if certain specific cars have already been sold out.
It is a three way contest for your attention on this list, which means:
• There is ample variety and intense competition among manufacturers.
• Maruti and Honda are the usual suspects for this kind of compilation, but Ford makes a rare foray into the low end market with two solid cars.

Without further ado, let’s check out our top recommendations.

Recommendation #1: Maruti Suzuki SX4 ZDi Opt 2014

Year: 2014 / Mileage: 36,233 / List Price: Rs. 299,000 / Ex Showroom Price: Rs. 953,999

Why buy: Currently with its first owner, this sedan will push you to the edge of your budget, but makes for a good long term investment considering its mileage, on road reliability and durability. Its soothing grey colour also makes it a sophisticated option in terms of style at the head of this list.

Buy it here

Recommendation #2: Honda Amaze 1.2 VX i-VTEC 2013

Year: 2013 / Mileage: 42,376 / List Price: Rs. 230,000 / Ex Showroom Price: Rs. 667,000

Why buy: Available in a scintillating shade of silver, this first owner sedan definitely hikes up the style quotient. A competitive price and consistent displays on the leading parameters makes it a worthy contender of your attention and of second place on this list.

Buy it here

Recommendation #3: Ford Figo Duratorq ZXi 1.4 2013

Year: 2013 / Mileage: 22,000 / List Price: Rs. 220,500 / Ex Showroom Price: Rs. 559,000

Why buy: Residing with its first owner, this blue hatchback is a feasible option for a family car, given its good condition, paltry mileage, and dependable performance. This can also be an ideal solution for buyers caught in a dilemma between cars one and two on this list, although the age of the car could be a potential deterrent.

Buy it here

Recommendation #4: Ford Figo Duratorq Diesel EXi 1.4 2014

Year: 2014 / Mileage: 64,000 / List Price: Rs. 225,000 / Ex Showroom Price: Rs. 539,000

Why buy: This first owner silver hatchback is an appealing car, mainly on the grounds of its economy and endurance. The considerable reading on its odometer might be problematic, but it is still a sensible purchase given its other features, especially for beginners who are looking for a transitional vehicle.

Buy it here

Recommendation #5: Maruti Celerio ZDi

Year: 2015 / Mileage: 44,260 / List Price: Rs. 279,000 / Ex Showroom Price: Rs. 532,000

Why buy: Protected with comprehensive insurance, this first owner car comes in a gripping grey colour that is bound to attract eyeballs. Add this to a healthy mileage, plenty of on road power and a competitive price, and you have a potential darkhorse to round off this list.

Buy it here

In Summary

Kolkata is one of the few cities where you will get five such quality cars at such low rates. What makes this compilation even more impressive is that a number of these cars have not seen a lot of roadtime, which means that they are good bets in the long run. For more such insightful car lists for Kolkata, watch this space.

Also Read: Mahindra & Tata Motors to shut down production of cars & SUVs to trim inventory levels

The car market is slow and almost every automaker is facing the heat from the sales slowdown. Mahindra and Tata Motors are among the top automakers of India about to enforce a steep production cut in order to reduce piling up inventory at dealer stockyards. Mahindra has informed investors that it would shut down car and SUV production at its various factories across India for 8-14 days. Here’s what the automaker said in its latest regulatory filing,

The company in the auto sector, and Mahindra Vehicle Manufacturers Limited (MVML), a wholly owned subsidiary of the company, as part of aligning its production with sales requirements, would be observing ‘No Production Days’ ranging between 8-14 days in various plants of the company and MVML during the second quarter of the financial year 2019-2020,

Tata Motors has also revealed that it would effect a block closure of its Pimpri and Jamshedpur factories for 3 days in order to reduce inventory levels. While Tata Motors’ Pimpri factory builds passenger cars, the one at Jamshedpur builds commercial vehicles. Tata Motors will also cut production for 3 days at the Jaguar-Land Rover factory that it runs at Chikhali, off Pune. The automaker said the following in a press statement,

As indicated earlier, external environment remains challenging, leading to demand contraction. We have aligned our production to actual demand and adjusted the number of shifts and contractual manpower. Eighteen days of no production in a single year is a regular norm when the plant is used for maintenance activities. At present, the three-day block closure will be used for upgrading the assembly lines, preparing for BSVI and similar jobs. Many departments are going to be operational.

Apart from Mahindra and Tata Motors, India’s largest automaker – Maruti Suzuki – has also gone on multiple zero production days in order to trim inventory levels. Other automakers including Toyota and Ford are likely to go in for similar measures. The monsoon in India has picked up dramatically over the past month, and good rainfall means better festive buying demand for car makers. If demand does not pick up in the coming months, car maker could begin laying off staff in a big way. Already, top automakers have begun cutting jobs of temporary workers. The auto parts industry (ancillaries) that supply to major car makers have also begun cutting jobs due to weak demand. The auto industry has demanded the government that it cut GST to 18 %. It remains to be seen whether the Indian government gives in to these demands to boost growth.

Also Read: Mahindra & Tata Motors to shut down production of cars & SUVs to trim inventory levels

Are you looking for used compact sedans to put up with the demanding roads of Kolkata? Is your budget fixed at 4 lakhs? Do you also have mileage needs to cater to? If yes, then you have come to the right place, for we shall take care of all your requirements. You might think your demands are too specific, but even with your specific needs you will be left to sift through a plethora of options on leading car websites. Moreover, they will have listings of cars that have not been neatly sorted, and hence are not in a position to give you the best insights. How do you decide which car suits you best then? Used car websites are usually of little use, even with their vast array of filters. The onus of sorting the information remains on you, and who wants to be drowning in data? Fortunately, we have got just the right solution for you through the Cartoq TRUE PRICE.

By deploying the Cartoq TRUE PRICE, we help you identify the best deals. The Cartoq Data Science team has built a Machine Learning model that estimates the TRUE PRICE of a used car, after accounting for all sorts of variables – brand, model, age, mileage, and car type. With all factors accounted for, the model predicts the TRUE PRICE, which then becomes the basis of comparison across cars. The best deals are those where listed price is lower than the TRUE PRICE. So, we scan through the car listings across major used car sites, compute their TRUE PRICE, and present the best deals for you.

The shortlist for this article was based on the analysis we ran on August 8, 2019; so, by the time you read this article, there is a good chance that the specific car may no longer be available. However, this list still provides plenty of useful pointers even if certain specific cars have already been sold out.

It is a two-horse race to your garage on this list, which means:
• Both Honda and Maruti are the top of their game with a series of stellar cars.
• Honda grabs the bragging rights with an extra option as well as the spot at the summit.

Without further ado, let’s check out our top recommendations.

Recommendation #1: Honda Amaze 1.5 E i-DTEC Opt 2018

Year: 2018 / Mileage: 28,000 / List Price: Rs. 350,000 / Ex Showroom Price: Rs. 708,000

Why buy: Few lists have such a distinguished car at the summit as this one. Just a year old and equipped with comprehensive insurance, this first owner diesel sedan is a bargain from all possible angles. Look no further than this car as your first preference on this compilation.

Buy it here

Recommendation #2: Maruti Suzuki Swift DZire VXi 2013

Year: 2013 / Mileage: 12,521 / List Price: Rs. 325,000 / Ex Showroom Price: Rs. 558,086

Why buy: Armed with insurance, this first owner sedan runs on petrol and sports a sleek grey colour. Present in excellent condition, two things stand out for this car- a paltry mileage and a modest price, which means that it will definitely be on the minds of most potential buyers.

Buy it here

Recommendation #3: Honda Amaze 1.5 VX i-DTEC 2013

Year: 2013 / Mileage: 40,000 / List Price: Rs. 349,999 / Ex Showroom Price: Rs. 766,000

Why buy: Residing with its first owner, this grey sedan is a feasible option for a family car, given its good condition and dependable performance. This can also be an ideal solution for buyers looking for a car with force and efficiency, without the baggage of heavy mileage.

Buy it here

Recommendation #4: Maruti Suzuki Swift DZire VXi 2014

Year: 2014 / Mileage: 33,485 / List Price: Rs. 351,820 / Ex Showroom Price: Rs. 544,000

Why buy: Golden cars are a rarity these days, and this first owner sedan pulls off the look with a certain ease and class. With a decent price mileage ratio, this petrol-powered vehicle remains a sensible option in the bottom half of this list.

Buy it here

Recommendation #5: Honda Amaze 1.5 VX i-DTEC 2015

Year: 2015 / Mileage: 42,000 / List Price: Rs. 400,000 / Ex Showroom Price: Rs. 776,000

Why buy: Another spick and span vehicle in this category, this grey sedan is also a first owner car and runs on diesel. Despite being just four years old and having an acceptable mileage, what drags this to the bottom of the list is its inflated price, which is going to exhaust your entire budget.

Buy it here

In Summary

It is the familiar face off between the Honda Amaze and the Maruti Suzuki Swift DZire in the compact sedan segment. What makes this particular clash interesting is how well both these cars are matched, across variants. Overall, this is a compelling collection that has enormous potential, both in terms of price and utility.

Also Read: Best Used Compact Sedans Under 4 Lakh with under 50,000 Kms in Kolkata From Cartoq TRUE PRICE

Just yesterday, Suzuki Motorcycles India Limited launched the Gixxer 250, a naked sportsbike based on the full faired version that was launched a few months ago. The Gixxer 250 closely resembles the Gixxer 155 commuter bike but has larger dimensions and has a much more powerful engine. Suzuki has just released a TVC that showcased the just-launched sportsbike. Check it out.

The Gixxer 250, like its fully faired sibling, uses a 250cc single cylinder engine that’s air-oil cooled. This motor puts out 26.5 Bhp of peak power and 22.6 Nm of peak torque. The fuel injected engine gets a four valve head and is paired to a 6 speed manual gearbox. The motorcycle gets telescopic front forks and a rear monoshock suspension. It retains the twin canister exhaust, which is common across Suzuki Gixxers, both small and large capacity ones. The bike is priced at Rs. 1.6 lakhs, making it much more costlier than the Yamaha FZ25 but a lot cheaper than the KTM Duke 250. In a sense, Suzuki seems to be trying to take up the vacant space between the FZ25 and Duke 250.

The Gixxer 250’s launch means that Suzuki now has a faired and unfaired motorcycle in the 250cc segment, and the only model missing from this line up is a cruiser. Suzuki is said to be working on a 250cc cruiser based on the Intruder platform. The cruiser motorcycle is likely to resemble the Intruder 155 but will get a much more powerful 250cc engine borrowed from the Gixxer twins. This will make the Intruder 250 a great bet against the likes of the Bajaj Avenger 220 and the Royal enfield Thunderbird 250/500. We expect Suzuki to price the cruiser quite competitively, and sandwich it between the Avenger and Thunderbird. This would allow the bigger engined Suzuki Intruder to carve out a niche for itself.

Suzuki is not the only motorcycle maker to sell scaled down versions of superbikes. Like the Gixxer, Gixxer SF and the Intruder 155 are scaled down versions of bigger engined namesakes, Yamaha follows a similar approach with the likes of the R15 (scaled down version of the R1) and the MT15 (Scaled down version of the MT07). This approach capitalizes on the appeal of bigger engined bikes in a much smaller, economical package. By building big sub-brands and auras around certain superbikes, motorcycle makers are using the branding to bring in big volumes. In the coming years, expect more such small capacity motorcycles inspired by big superbikes.

Also Read: Suzuki Gixxer 250: Check out the TVC of the just launched sportsbike

Three fully-faired bikes. Three different manufacturers. Three different engine capacity bikes but all between Rs. 1.4 lakh to 1.5 lakh. We are talking about the KTM RC125, Bajaj Pulsar RS200 and the Yamaha R15 V3, all of which are pitted against each other in the video below by Ayush Verma. Not the KTM RC 125, as its name suggests, is a 125 cc bike, the R15 belongs to the 150 cc segment while the RS200 is the most powerful of the lot here with an engine displacement of around 200 cc. As mentioned earlier, all of them are priced almost identically and hence the question here arises that which amongst them is the best in terms of straight-line speed. Let’s take a look at the video to find out the same.

Now in this video, we have two winners. The Bajaj Pulsar RS200 wins straight out in terms of outright performance due to its powerful engine and shorter initial gearing. Hence it is the champion here when considering a short length drag. However, when it comes to high-end grunt and best top speed, the winner among this trio is the Yamaha R15 V3 which zooms past the RS200 after the attains it top speed.

The KTM RC125 however, starts from the last here and being the least powerful bike here, stays way behind the other two bikes in this race. That said, the RC125 is one of the best track-focused tools one can get under Rs. 1.5 lakh. Though expensive, its fit and finish along with the quality of equipment are unmatched in the price range. For those wondering why the R15 V3 managed to pass the RS200 with ease at higher speed despite the latter being much powerful, there are two answers for the same. One, the R15 is much lighter than the RS200 and second, it comes with VVA (Variable Valve Actuation) technology which enables the bike to have a punchy top end.

Coming to the specifications, The KTM RC125 is powered by a 125cc, liquid-cooled four-stroke engine that churns out 14.3 Bhp of peak power at 9,250 rpm and 12 Nm of peak torque at 7,000 rpm. A six-speed manual gearbox with slipper clutch comes as standard. The bike has a kerb weight of 135 kg and comes with a single-channel ABS. The Yamaha YZF-R15 V3.0 gets powered by a 155 cc engine that puts out 18.7 Bhp of power at 10,000 RPM along with 15 Nm of torque at 8,500 RPM. The engine comes mated to a six-speed gearbox and gets a slipper clutch as well. It comes equipped with a dual-channel ABS and the bike has a weight of 139 kg.

The Bajaj RS200 is powered by a 199.5-cc single-cylinder, fuel-injected engine that puts out 24.5 Bhp of power along with 18.6 Nm of torque. The bike has a kerb weight of 165 Kgs and comes equipped with a single-channel ABS.

Also Read: Renault Duster Facelift vs Hyundai Creta: 0-100 Kph acceleration and 100-0 Kph braking tests [Video]

The Indian has always preferred manual transmission over the automatics. However, in recent years, the situation has changed, especially with the arrival of affordable automatic vehicles and the introduction of products like AMT in the market. The demand for automatic vehicles has been increasing off late in the Indian market. However, should you be buying an automatic over the manual transmission? If you are one of the five kinds of people listed below, you definitely should not.

Enthusiasts within a budget

While the “enthusiastic” Dual-Clutch Transmission has made its way into the sub-Rs 10 lakh mark in the Indian market, there are a lot of cars with performance engines that don’t get them. Apart from the Skoda Rapid DSG, Volkswagen Polo GT TSI, Volkswagen Vento and Hyundai Venue, none of the affordable cars offers a dual-clutch transmission. Vehicles with turbocharged petrol engine like the Ford EcoSport, Tata Nexon, Maruti Suzuki Baleno RS and more do not offer an automatic transmission. Enthusiasts on a budget get greater choices in the manual transmission segment.

Fully loaded options

Automatic transmission options can increase the price of the vehicle by a lot. This is why quite a lot of manufacturer stay away from offering the most loaded version with an automatic transmission. This keeps the price of the car realistic. There are quite a lot of examples of top-end variants not getting an automatic transmission. Recently launched Hyundai Venue’s top-end version is available only in a manual version. So if you want a fully-loaded vehicle with all the features advertised in the brochure, a manual may be your only choice.

People staying in remote areas

Automatic transmissions are complex mechanism but over the years they have become extremely reliable. However, it should be noted that if an automatic vehicle fails and the gear is stuck in parking or any other gear, it will require a flatbed to reach the service centre. People living in areas that do not offer such services easily should stick to the manual transmissions and be on the safer side.

Mad about mileage

There are a lot of vehicles in the market that offers higher fuel efficiency with the automatic transmission as per ARAI certification. Well, under test conditions where you’re keeping the vehicle at a constant speed, automatic transmissions may offer a greater fuel efficiency but in real-world conditions, situations are different. Manual transmissions will always return a higher fuel efficiency than the automatic transmission. If you get driven around in a chauffeured car, buying a manual makes more sense since you do not have to drive and you will save big on your fuel bills.

Frequently drive through water crossings and flooded roads

Manual transmissions offer great control over the engine RPM, which is absolutely needed when going through deep water crossings and flooded roads. Keeping the engine at a certain RPM ensures that the water does not enter the exhaust and in an automatic transmission, the gear upshifts after reaching a certain RPM. It can be a pain to drive an automatic through the flooded roads.

Also Read: Renault Duster Facelift vs Hyundai Creta: 0-100 Kph acceleration and 100-0 Kph braking tests [Video]

Leaving the car keys inside the car and locking it is a sort of nightmare all of us wish to never encounter in reality. Yet, life happens and such unfortunate situation strikes people during the most unsuspecting times. Locking the car with the keys inside literally means that you are stranded with your vehicle and not much can be done unless you have a spare key around. A few modern cars do come with emergency services and connected services that will help you out of such situations but most cars in India under Rs. 30 lakh price mark don’t offer such technologies as of now. The video below by Amar Sakharkar shows a Tata Harrier owner who is unfortunately stuck in a similar situation where the SUV is locked with the keys inside.

Apparently, the spare key set of this Harrier was not working and hence the only way to get the keys from the vehicle was to break the side mirror. What may be surprising for many of you is the fact that despite repeated strikes from a hammer, the side glass didn’t break until a chisel was used and positioned to the corner of the glass. This is because of the fact that the side glass of cars is tempered glass which can withstand such blows. Click here to read more about how to break open a car’s windows from inside in case of an emergency.

Talking about the Tata Harrier, the SUV is underpinned by the OMEGA platform that is based on the Land Rover D8 platform. This, coupled with the IMPACT 2.0 design philosophy the SUV carries, makes it one of the best options in the mid-size SUV game. It is powered by a 2.0-litre KRYOTEC diesel engine which is a Fiat-derived unit. The same engine is found under the hood of the Jeep Compass and the newly launched MG Hector, albeit in a higher state of tune. The upcoming Tata Cassini (7-seater Harrier) will also sport the same engine but in a higher state of tune. On the Harrier, this engine puts out 138 Bhp of power along with 350 Nm of torque and comes mated to a 6-speed manual box.

Just a few weeks back, Tata introduced an option for Harrier owners to get a sunroof installed at a cost of Rs. 95,000. This company supplied sunroof was a result of the increasing competition in the segment along with the fact that almost every other SUV in the segment offered a sunroof as an option. Tata is also expected to introduce an automatic gearbox in the Harrier by the first quarter of next year. This will resolve another major gripe that potential buyers have against the SUV. Further updates will come in the form of an upgraded BSVI compliant diesel engine along with a new petrol engine option, though the latter is not fully confirmed yet.

Also Read: Renault Duster Facelift vs Hyundai Creta: 0-100 Kph acceleration and 100-0 Kph braking tests [Video]

The TVS Apache RR 310 is the flagship offering from the South Indian two wheeler major, and is also the most powerful and fastest motorcycle that the brand has ever built. Likewise, the Interceptor 650 is one of the fastest motorcycles that Royal Enfield has produced in India. So, when both these motorcycles face off in a top-end run, who will win? This is exactly what you’ll find out in the video lined up below. You are going to be more than surprised to see how the Apache RR 310 performs. Whether it’s due to a better rider or something else, you will find out soon.

As the video indicates, the TVS Apache RR 310 rockets off right from the start, and holds its own until the 160 Kmph mark, when the higher cubic capacity of the Royal Enfield Interceptor finally takes over and allows the motorcycle to come ahead. But in an everyday scenario, the Apache RR 310 will be a quicker bike although the Interceptor 650 will run it very close. Such top-speed runs are academic and don’t really matter in the real world, where roll-on timings, spurts of acceleration through the gears and more nimble handling are more important factors. By this yardstick, the TVS Apache RR 310 is a very competitive bike but it just can’t match the sheer comfort and usability that the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 brings to the table.

The Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 is a a lot more relaxed while being nearly as quick as the Apache 310. It’ll be the easier bike to live with on a day-to-day basis. The Apache RR 310 has a more aggressive riding position, and will suit those who like to ride hard, both in their commutes as well as the occasional highway run or track day. The motorcycle is one of the best looking sub-Rs. 3 lakh offerings in India, and looks like a 600cc bike while standing still. It’s got the big bike vibe, and this is a major selling point of the Apache RR 310, of course apart from the fairing it’s offered with. The Interceptor 650 on the other hand, is just slightly larger than the other Royal Enfield motorcycles that the brand sells, and is a great upgrade for those who have been riding the likes of the Classic 350/500 and the Thunderbird twins.

Talking power and torque numbers, the Apache RR 310 has 34 Bhp-27.3 Nm outputs produced high in the rev range, at 9,700 rpm and 7,700 rpm respectively. The single cylinder engine is paired to a six speed manual gearbox with slipper clutch, is liquid cooled and fuel injected and gets a four valve-DOHC head. The Interceptor on the other hand gets a 647cc twin cylinder four stroke motor with a 270 degree crank, 4 valve head, a single overhead camshaft and a 6 speed manual gearbox with a slipper clutch as standard. The Interceptor’s 650cc motor makes 47 Bhp and 52 Nm, lower in the rev range at 7,250 rpm and 5,250 rpm respectively. The Interceptor 650 is priced at Rs. 2.37 lakhs, ex-showroom Delhi while the Apache RR 310 sits at Rs. 2.27 lakhs.

Also Read: Renault Duster Facelift vs Hyundai Creta: 0-100 Kph acceleration and 100-0 Kph braking tests [Video]

Going by the current trends of the Indian automotive scene, SUVs are among the most popular segments that people are looking to buy. Another trend that is not quite old yet is the bias towards buying an automatic transmission equipped car rather than its manual counterpart. But if we combine both these trends, almost every SUV with an automatic box costs more than Rs. 10 lakh. However, if you still want to buy an SUV that comes with an automatic gearbox and doesn’t cross the Rs. 10 lakh price mark, here are a few options that can be considered.

Tata Nexon

Base auto variant price: Rs. 7.94 lakh

Starting off the list is the Tata Nexon, which is among the most affordable sub-4 meter SUVs in India. The stylish SUV from Tata offers an AMT gearbox on both petrol and diesel variants under Rs. 10 lakh. Prices for the base petrol automatic variant of the Nexon start from Rs. 7.94 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), making it the most affordable automatic SUV in the country. The petrol engine on the Nexon is a 1.2-litre unit churning out 108 Bhp-170 Nm while the diesel is a 1.5-litre unit that churns out 160 Bhp-260 Nm.

Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza

Base auto variant price: Rs. 8.69 lakh

Next up is the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza which has been the best selling sub-4 meter SUV in India for long. Though it is only available with a diesel engine, Maruti paid attention to customer feedback and launched the AMT gearbox equipped model long ago. The base automatic variant, which is the VDi AGS, is priced at Rs. 8.69 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) and you can have the better equipped ZDi AGS variant priced at Rs. 9.47 lakh. Powring the Vitara Brezza is a 1.5-litre diesel mill that churns out 89 Bhp of power along with 200 Nm of torque.

Hyundai Venue

Base auto variant price: Rs. 9.35 lakh

The newest entrant in the sub-4 meter SUV segment, the Hyundai Venue comes with several engines and gearbox combinations in a bid to offer something for everyone. It is also the most powerful SUV in the market right now that comes with an automatic box under Rs. 10 lakh. The base automatic variant of the Venue is the S1.0 AT which is priced at Rs. 9.35 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). Also, it is the only SUV here to offer a DCT gearbox as the rest of the competition either offer AMT or CVT boxes. Powering this variant of the Venue is a three-cylinder 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol unit that pumps out a healthy 118 Bhp of power along with 172 Nm of torque.

Mahindra Nuvosport

Base auto variant price: Rs. 9.72 lakh

The Mahindra Nuvosport is a sub-4 meter SUV  based on the now-discontinued Quanto which in turn was a shortened version of the Xylo. The Nuvosport does not make a compelling case for itself in front of the current crop of sub-4 meter SUVs but it does offer an automatic transmission under Rs. 10 lakh. The N6 AMT variant of the is priced at Rs. 9.72 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) and is powered by a three-cylinder 1.5-litre diesel motor. This engine pumps out 100 Bhp of power along with 240 Nm of torque.

Renault Duster

Base auto variant price: Rs. 9.99 lakh

Renault recently launched the facelifted version of the Duster in the market. It gets a few tweaks on the design front which includes a bigger grille, new alloys and slightly altered design of the headlamps and tail lamps among other changes. You can buy the automatic gearbox equipped variant of the Duster just shy of Rs. 10 lakh. The Duster comes equipped with a CVT type box that is paired to a 1.5-litre petrol engine. This engine pumps out a decent 105 Bhp of power along with 142 Nm of torque

Also Read: Renault Duster Facelift vs Hyundai Creta: 0-100 Kph acceleration and 100-0 Kph braking tests [Video]

Suzuki Motorcycles India launched the Gixxer 250 in India this week and the naked sibling of the Gixxer 250 SF has been priced at Rs. 1.6 lakhs (ex-showroom Delhi). Available in two colour schemes, the bike looks quite stylish as well as muscular justifying its naked body design. As with most of the bikes in this price range, the Gixxer 250 is also being offered with several accessories to choose from which enhance the practicality as well as the aesthetics of the bike. Several of the accessories being offered by Suzuki are touring focused which enhance the bike’s touring capabilities.

As seen in the image above, the Gixxer 250 gets several accessories that can be bought from the dealership itself. The various accessories include Knee pads, tank pad, black-finished leg guard/crash protector, DC socket for phone charging, knuckle guards, bash plate which fits under the engine and saddlebags. The inclusion of saddlebags, bash plate, knuckle guards, and DC USB charging socket are welcome additions as they will enhance the touring capabilities of the bike. However, Suzuki could have also offered a front windscreen as an accessory. That would have made the bike a complete touring friendly bike.

As mentioned already, Suzuki is offering the Gixxer 250 with two different paint schemes to choose from. This includes a combination of Metallic Matte Platinum Silver/ Metallic Matte Black and a Metallic Matte Black colour. Another highlight is the stylish all-LED headlamp which was first seen on the 150 cc sibling of the Gixxer 250. In fact, the whole Gixxer series now features full LED headlamps as standard.

As of now, there are a total of four bikes in the Gixxer range of which two are naked bike and two are fully faired bikes. Talking about the Gixxer 250, it is the perfect bike for those who want a stylish naked motorcycle that can do both city and highway duties without any issues.  The powerful engine on the bike further ensures that the rider doesn’t fall short of power, be it during the stop and go traffic or highway manoeuvres.

Speaking of which, the Gixxer 250 is powered by the same 250cc, air-oil cooled single-cylinder four-stroke engine that was earlier introduced with the Gixxer 250 SF. This engine pumps out 26.5 Bhp of peak power at 9,000 rpm while the peak torque is rated at 22.6 Nm that arrives at 7,500 rpm. The engine comes mated with a 6-speed manual gearbox. The 250 cc engine also gets a four-valve head and fuel injection. The Gixxer 250 weighs 156 kilograms which makes it 5 kg lighter than its fully-faired sibling, the Gixxer 250. However, it is expected to have a lower top speed but the lack of farings and lower weight means that the bike will be more manageable in city conditions.

Also Read: Renault Duster Facelift vs Hyundai Creta: 0-100 Kph acceleration and 100-0 Kph braking tests [Video]

Tata Harrier has become quite popular in the Indian market after it was launched earlier this year. The all-new SUV is based on an all-new platform and has gathered appreciation for its design and the way it looks. The all-new Tata Harrier will soon get challenged by some big bold SUVs that will be launching in the Indian market in the coming time. Here is a list of all the vehicles that will be launching in the market and will take on the Tata Harrier.

Kia Seltos

Launch: 22nd August

Kia will launch their first vehicle in the market later this month. The Seltos will launch on 22nd August in the Indian market and will offer some first-in-segment features. The unique features in the Seltos include UVO connected infotainment system, Bose speakers, connected air purifier, connected ambient lights, blind zone detection system, rear reclining seats, traction modes, driving rearview monitor and Heads-Up Display. Kia will also offer three different engine options with the Seltos and for the first time in the Indian market, all the three different engine options will get three different automatic transmission options. There will be a 1.5-litre petrol engine, 1.5-litre diesel engine and the most powerful of all – a 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine.

Hyundai Creta

Launch: 2020

Hyundai is also working on the all-new Creta, which will be based on an all-new platform that underpins the Kia Seltos too. The Hyundai Creta is expected to be launched in the 2020 Auto Expo. The Creta will be launched with a host of new features including an air purifier and connected infotainment system like the Venue. The Creta is likely to look much modern and will get split headlamp set-up. The engine of the next-generation Hyundai Creta will be similar to the Kia Seltos.

Maruti Suzuki Vitara

Launch: 2020

With the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza ruling the sales charts for months now, soon the bigger sibling of the vehicle will be launched in India. The Suzuki Vitara, which is already on sale in the international markets was spotted testing in India a few weeks back. Maruti Suzuki is expected to showcase the vehicle at the 2020 Auto Expo and will launch the vehicle in the market subsequently. The all-new Vitara will be powered only by a petrol engine, which is likely to be the 1.5-litre engine.

Honda HR-V

Launch: End 2019

For a long time, the all-new Honda HR-V has been expected to be launched in the Indian market. Earlier this year, Honda showcased the HR-V to the dealership owners in Inda and will launch later this year. Honda has also started the final testing of the HR-V on the Indian roads before the launch. It is likely to get powered by a 1.8-litre i-VTEC petrol engine and a 1.6-litre i-DTEC diesel engine. Both the engine options will get automatic transmission as an option.

Skoda Kamiq

Launch: 2020

Skoda is currently heading the India 2.0 strategy and will launch an array of all-new products based on the Indianised version of the MQB-A0 platform. The Kamiq was recently unveiled globally and it will be a mid-size SUV that looks futuristic. Skoda is expected to utilise a petrol engine option with two states of tunes in the Kamiq for the Indian market. The Indian-spec Kamiq will get the 1.0-litre 3-cylinder engine that will generate around 115 Bhp and 200 Nm. It is expected to get a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The Indian version of Kamiq will also get a CNG version.

Also Read: Renault Duster Facelift vs Hyundai Creta: 0-100 Kph acceleration and 100-0 Kph braking tests [Video]

Do you want to purchase a used compact SUV but have a tight budget? Are you looking solely at cars below 6 lakh and have mileage wishes to meet? Are your demands specific to Mumbai? If yes, then worry no more, for we have you covered with a curated list for your requirements. You might think your demands are too specific, but even with your specific needs you will be bombarded with a whole series of options on leading car websites. Moreover, they will have listings of cars that have not been precisely sorted, and hence are not in a position to give you the best deal. How do you arrive at choosing the right car then? Used car websites are usually of little use, even with their multiple filters. The onus of sorting the information remains on you, and who wants to be handling so much of data? Fortunately, we get rid of all such hassles for you through the Cartoq TRUE PRICE. By deploying the Cartoq TRUE PRICE, we help you identify the best deals. The Cartoq Data Science team has built a Machine Learning model that estimates the TRUE PRICE of a used car, after accounting for all sorts of variables – brand, model, age, mileage, and car type.

With all factors accounted for, the model predicts the TRUE PRICE, which then becomes the basis of comparison across cars. The best deals are those where listed price is lower than the TRUE PRICE. So, we scan through the car listings across major used car sites, compute their TRUE PRICE, and present the best deals for you. The shortlist for this article was based on the analysis we ran on August 8, 2019; so, by the time you read this article, there is a good chance that the specific car may no longer be available. However, this list still provides plenty of useful pointers even if certain specific cars have already been sold out.

Ford is the king of the road in this segment, which means:
• All five Ford cars strike the right balance between price and utility.
• The Ford EcoSport Titanium is once more the most consistent variant in the SUV section.

Without further ado, let’s check out our top recommendations.

Recommendation #1: Ford EcoSport 1.5 Petrol Trend

Year: 2016 / Mileage: 52,000 / List Price: Rs. 545,000 / Ex Showroom Price: Rs. 802,000

Why buy: Running on petrol, this first owner SUV comes in an elegant brown colour and is protected with comprehensive insurance. At just three years old, it has a long way to go even though it has already covered a considerable distance on the odometer. Combining power and style, this is a fantastic way to get the ball rolling in this list.

Buy it here

Recommendation #2: Ford EcoSport Titanium 1.0 EcoBoost 2013

Year: 2013 / Mileage: 43,000 / List Price: Rs. 495,000 / Ex Showroom Price: Rs. 790,000

Why buy: Sporting a smart grey look, this compact SUV also runs on petrol and is currently placed with its first owner. Despite being six years old, it is yet to touch the wrong side of 50,000 kilometers on the odometer. Efficient and economic, this car has the potential to give the list’s topper a real run for its money.

Buy it here

Recommendation #3: Ford EcoSport 1.5 Ti VCT MT Titanium

Year: 2014 / Mileage: 47,000 / List Price: Rs. 545,000 / Ex Showroom Price: Rs. 827,000

Why buy: Available in a breathtaking diamond white colour, this SUV is certainly a showstopper when it comes to appearance. Complementing its killer looks, this first owner petrol powered car also has a healthy mileage and a competitive price, both of which serve to enhance its desirability.

Buy it here

Recommendation #4: Ford EcoSport Titanium 1.0 EcoBoost Opt 2013

Year: 2013 / Mileage: 50,000 / List Price: Rs. 543,900 / Ex Showroom Price: Rs. 829,000

Why buy: Another petrol first owner car that comes in white, this SUV also packs in a lot of power with a consistent track record of on road performance. The only issue is that with six years of age and a substantial mileage, buyers may prioritize fresher cars over this one.

Buy it here

Recommendation #5: Ford EcoSport Titanium 1.0 EcoBoost Opt 2013

Year: 2013 / Mileage: 34,000 / List Price: Rs. 563,500 / Ex Showroom Price: Rs. 829,000

Why buy: There is always something imperious about a black SUV and this one is no different. Also fueled by petrol and belonging to its first owner, this car has a relatively steep price, but considering its mileage, is a good investment for the foreseeable future.

Buy it here

In Summary

It can be difficult to separate similar cars and pick the best one, as is the case on this compilation. In such a scenario, you need to focus on which parameter is key for you and whether you are willing to prioritize that factor in a tradeoff with the other parameters. This, along with aesthetic preference, should be enough to seal the right deal for you.

Also Read: Renault Duster Facelift vs Hyundai Creta: 0-100 Kph acceleration and 100-0 Kph braking tests [Video]

There has been a flood of SUVs in the Indian market of late with several options available in every SUV segment. However, almost all of these said SUVs are actually CUVs (Crossover Utility Vehicles) as they don’t have the right set of tools to go heavy off-roading. That is not of much importance though as the average SUV buyer hardly ever takes his SUV off the road, let alone serious off-roading and hence don’t know much about proper 4×4 SUVs. For the same, here are some common things you should know about four-wheel-drive SUVs.

4WD low ratio is not for tarmac

Most SUVs that are capable of doing heavy off-roading and have 4-wheel-drive drivetrain also offer a low ratio transfer case. The 4-low helps the SUV in tackling difficult terrains which includes steep inclines and slush among others. However, the 4-low mode should not be used on the tarmac or even on smooth, flat surfaces. Doing so increases the wear and tear by a huge margin and can also damage the transmission. On normal surfaces, the SUV should be driven in the 2-wheel-drive model and on tough terrains, one should use 4-high mode. 4-low should be used only when the going gets too tough or the surface is too treacherous to tackle.

Diff-locks at high speed hurts the vehicle

Engaging differential locks means both the wheels of an axle rotate at the same speed. This feature comes in handy when dealing with slippery conditions like that of slush or snow. However, it should be engaged only at slow speed. This is because at high speeds, driving with the diff-locks engaged can cause huge understeer while steering. Note that while turning, the outer wheel rotates more than the inner wheel as it needs to cover a greater distance and hence if the differential-lock is engaged, both the wheels will rotate equally. This results in understeer and can even result in loss of control.

All-wheel-drive and 4X4s are not the same

All Wheel Drive (AWD) and Four-wheel drive or 4×4 do not mean the same and many people get confused about the same. While an all-wheel-drive drivetrain sends power to all four wheels, it’s no way the same as four-wheel-drive. A 4×4 vehicle offers a low-ratio gearbox, diff-locks, and other off-road features. SUVs like the Renault Duster, Mahindra XUV500, and Audi Q3 come with an all-wheel-drive system but don’t come with a low-ratio gearbox. On other other hand, vehicles like Mahindra Thar, Force Gurkha, and Tata Safari among others offer a low-ratio gearbox which makes them able off-roaders.

But they are not meant to go everywhere

True that proper 4×4 SUVs can do off-roading like a boss but that doesn’t mean that they are completely invincible. The fact is that just having 4×4 drivetrain won’t help you drive on just any surface. Other bits like tyre types, approach and departure angle, suspension travel, etc also play a huge role in deciding the off-road capability of a 4×4-equipped SUV apart from the capability of the driver himself.

Engage 4X4 before getting stuck

Engaging the four-wheel-drive at the correct time is really important. Having an AWD system doesn’t mean the car will always drive in the 4×4 model. Hence, it’s a good idea to engage 4×4 as soon as the going gets tough. While some SUVs do offer a full-time 4X4 system, there are many models that come with only a partial 4X4 system that needs to be engaged manually.

Mileage and off-roading are not friends

That’s right, heavy off-roading in 4×4 mode with 4-low or even 4-high mode selected means that the fuel efficiency of the vehicle has gone for a toss. This is because off-roading is a challenging and heavy activity that puts all the components of an SUV to test. During heavy off-roading, the engine works hard to provide the maximum power output needed to tackle the bad terrain. The challenging terrain coupled with the usage of the 4×4 mode has an adverse impact on fuel efficiency.

SUV becomes torque monster in low ratio

The 4-low mode is used when tackling very tough terrain and when it is engaged, the torque output increases by at least 2 times to four times. This gain in torque results in the enhanced ability of the SUV to take on sticky situations. However, the 4-low mode should only be used when it’s really necessary to do so. In the regular mode, the Mahindra Thar offers a torque output of 247 Nm but with the 4-low engaged, the torque output increases to a mind-boggling 600 Nm.

4X4s are significantly expensive than the RWD models

Compared to a 4×2 drivetrain, a 4×4 drivetrain is much more complex and the same is reflected in their prices also. Powering all four wheels in a balanced way requires a lot more components and complex engineering when compared to 4×2 SUVs. For instance, the entry-level 2WD Fortuner diesel costs Rs. 29.84 lakh while the entry-level 4WD diesel model costs Rs. 31.81 lakh, which is roughly Rs. 2 lakh higher.

Higher maintenance

Not only are 4×4 drivetrain vehicles pricier than their 4×2 counterparts but they are dearer to maintain as well. Usage of 4×4 increases the wear and tear of many components, which means maintenance costs are higher.

Available with both petrol and diesel options

Contrary to a popular belief that originated during the initial days of 4×4 SUVs, both petrol and diesel engine can be used to power a 4×4 SUV. In fact, there are many vehicles that offer a 4×4 unit with a petrol engine including the likes of the Maruti Suzuki Gypsy among others. Diesel-powered SUVs are more popular due to the higher torque output and lower running costs of a diesel engine. We also have a handful of high-end 4×4 SUVs that come with a petrol engine.

Image Source: 8,9,10

Also Read: Renault Duster Facelift vs Hyundai Creta: 0-100 Kph acceleration and 100-0 Kph braking tests [Video]

Renault launched a facelifted version of the Duster compact SUV last month and sales have picked up dramatically. While the 2019 Renault Duster gets a slew of cosmetic changes, the engines and gearboxes remain the same. The Duster continues to rival the Hyundai Creta, which got a facelift last year and will get an all-new model next year. How does the facelifted Renault Duster Diesel compare with the Hyundai Creta Diesel when it comes to flat out acceleration and emergency braking? Here’s a video that will tell you just that.

As the video indicates, the Hyundai Creta Diesel beats the Duster Diesel by quite a margin in terms of outright acceleration. The Creta Diesel does the 0-100 Kph sprint in just 11.61 seconds while the 2019 Duster Diesel takes 13.25 seconds. The Duster does have the measure of the Creta in terms of braking though. The Duster takes 3.34 seconds to come to a standstill from 100 Kph while the Creta takes 4.10 seconds.

This means that the Duster Diesel has far superior brakes, which is a huge positive on Indian roads, where unpleasant surprises lurk just around the corner. Both the Duster and Creta feature similar braking set-ups: disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. As for engines, the Creta rules with its 1.6 liter turbodiesel motor very smooth and refined yet very powerful, with 126 Bhp-250 Nm outputs. The Duster’s diesel engine, though quite powerful with outputs of 108 Bhp-240 Nm, is a generation behind the Creta’s engine in terms of refinement and punch.

The Duster does have significant advantages though. 1. It’s a lot cheaper than the Creta, variant to variant. 2. It has terrific ride quality and good handling. Overall, it’s a driver’s SUV that’s enjoyable to drive on both twisty and straight roads. The great ride quality makes sure that the Duster can dispatch bad roads very comfortably. 3. It comes with an all wheel drive option, which the Creta does not offer. The all wheel drive version of the Duster makes it very capable off the road, and is a do-it-all affordable SUV. The Duster is also offered with a 1.5 liter petrol engine with 104 Bhp-140 Nm. The petrol engine gets 5 speed manual and CVT automatic gearbox options. Even the diesel variant of the Duster gets a 6 speed automated manual transmission (AMT).

While Renault will bring in the 3rd generation Duster (2nd generation will be skipped) to India only in 2022, Hyundai will bring in an all-new Creta next year. The new Creta will share its platform with the Kia Seltos, and will become larger. It is likely to be offered in 5 and 7 seat variants. The new Creta will offer both petrol and diesel engines. In case of the Duster, it will lose the diesel engine from April 2020 as Renault has announced that it would not build diesel engined cars in India once BS6 norms come in.

Also Read: Renault Duster Facelift vs Hyundai Creta: 0-100 Kph acceleration and 100-0 Kph braking tests [Video]

It’s is a norm across the country that when a VVIP convoy moves along public roads, all other cars are blocked and the traffic is halted for some time to ensure a smooth passage of the convoy. The various dignitaries who enjoy this privilege include state chief ministers, the prime minister of India, the president of India and a few other such high ranking individuals. A similar scene was being witnessed recently in West Bengal when Mamta Banerjee, the chief minister of West Bengal, was moving with her convoy from the airport. Upon seeing the whole traffic being halted, Mamta scolded the responsive traffic cop as to why the traffic was being held. The video below by ANI News shows an excerpt from the incident that was caught on camera.

As seen in the video above, chief minister Mamta Banerjee is sitting in her Mahindra Scorpio and waiting patiently by the road side for the traffic conditions to be sorted out. Her convoy mainly consists of white coloured Mahindra Bolero and Scorpio SUVs. According to a report by TOI, Mamta then got out of her car and rebuked the responsible traffic cops who were posted at Teghoria crossing on VIP Road. According to the report, she did so after noticing the traffic that was halted on the service roads and the main thoroughfare in order to facilitate the smooth passage of her convoy.

After this, the chief minister asked her convoy to park at roadside and asked the cops to allow free movement of vehicles. According to the report, Mamta Banerjee stood by the roadside for a good four-and-a-half-minute and only left after the traffic movement resumed on the stretch back to normal. She was returning from the airport around 5.45pm on Thursday with a convoy of nine vehicles. As per the usual protocol followed by cops across West Bengal, the traffic movement on main thoroughfares and crossover points is stopped.

This is done to ensure that any VIP passing through gets a free and smooth passage without the hassle of getting stuck in traffic jams. In past too, Mamta Banerjee has tried to defy this protocol on multiple occasions and has often instructed cops in public not to hamper traffic movement for her passage. On Thursday, seeing a number of vehicles stopped on the service roads parallel to VIP Road to allow her smooth passage, she asked her convoy to pull over and rebuked the cops. This comes as a good move by the chief minister and we hope the same is adopted by the government of other states too, though not if there is an emergency or red alert condition.

Also Read: Upcoming Kia Seltos & MG Hector side-by-side: Which one looks better?

The E-Class luxury sedan has been Mercedes Benz’s best selling car in India, and for good reason. The luxury sedan offers acres of space, plenty of luxury, striking looks and thrilling performance. This has been the case with multiple generations of the E-Class, a reason for the car’s success generation after generation. The pre-owned car market is a great place to find excellent examples of the E-Class. Here’s one such example from Mumbai, which looks beautifully maintained. You may contact the seller here.

It’s diesel powered, and used the 2.2 liter-4 cylinder turbocharged diesel engine with 201 Bhp-500 Nm. The gearbox is a 5 speed torque converter automatic, and it drives the rear wheels of the car. This particular example is currently with its second owner, with 80,000 kilometers on the odometer. The best part about this car is its asking price of Rs. 13.55 lakhs, which makes it cheaper than the top of the line Maruti Suzuki Ciaz Diesel.

Well, this is how the used luxury market in India works as pricey cars lose their value very quickly due to high maintenance cost. In fact, this is the reason why even well maintained examples go for cheap. If you do intend to bring this car home, you must first get it checked at a Mercedes Benz dealership for its complete service history. This will give you an idea about how this car has been maintained for the past 8 years or so.

Careful maintenance, no major insurance claims and no flood damage are three essential bits that you need to look for in a luxury car. While such cars can be cheap to purchase in the used car market, abused examples can be white elephants as parts are very expensive. Also, finding a good neighborhood garage that works on luxury cars will be cheaper on the pocket rather than going to Mercedes Benz dealerships for regular maintenance. If kept well, these cars can last a long time.

There are many such luxury car service centers that have sprung up in recent years across most big cities. Since this car’s location is Mumbai – a place that has many such garages that are capable of working on luxury cars – a person buying this car in Mumbai can easily find such service centers. Even Pune has many such luxury car service centers that are capable and a lot more cost effective than Mercedes Benz authorized service centers. Another thing to note is that this particular E-Class is the E250CDI trim – a best selling variant whose engine did have a recall for faulty injectors. So, getting the injectors checked for functioning just in case is good idea before purchasing a car like this. Injectors can be frightfully expensive. Meanwhile, if you’re considering buying a used luxury car, do consider parking a few lakh rupees as an emergency fund for unexpected repairs.

Also Read: Upcoming Kia Seltos & MG Hector side-by-side: Which one looks better?

Days ago, Royal Enfield launched cut price variants of the Bullet 350. Called the 350X and the 350X ES, these motorcycles are significantly cheaper than the regular STD350 and 350 ES models. While prices of the Royal Enfield Bullet 350X starts from Rs. 1.12 lakhs, the 350X ES is priced at Rs. 1.27 lakhs. This is about Rs. 9,000 cheaper than the STD350 and the 350 ES trims. Royal Enfield has also cut maintenance costs of these motorcycles significantly by increasing the service intervals. This change has been possible thanks to usage of semi-synthetic oil (which lasts longer) over mineral oil. There are a bunch of stylistic changes on these motorcycles. You can know all about this, and more through the video we’ve lined up for you. Check it out.

In terms of stylistic changes, both motorcycles get new paint schemes and blacked out engine cases and wheel rims. Mechanically, both motorcycles are unchanged. What this means is, they use 346cc four stroke engines with 19.8 Bhp-28 Nm outputs and five speed manual gearboxes. While one engine gets only a kick starter, the other (one on the ES model) is equipped with both kick and electric starters. This engine is a tried and tested unit that has been around for more than a decade now.

Royal Enfield debuted this engine in the Thunderbird TBTS, way back in 2008. This long stroke, air cooled single used hydraulic tappets and a carburetor. Known for its solid low end torque, this engine is best enjoyed at speeds of about 80 Kph, when it’s at its smoothest. If ridden with a light wrist, this engine can actually return 40-45 Kmpl even in city traffic. Its steady thump is what drives customers towards it.

The Bullet 350X and 350X ES models get single channel ABS as standard while suspension consists of telescopic front forks and twin gas charged rear shock absorbers. While there’s a disc brake up front, the rear wheel is braked using a drum brake. Meanwhile, Royal Enfield is working on Bharat Stage 6 (BS6) emission norms compliant motorcycles, which will use a brand new platform.

The new platform will also herald a new 350cc-400cc air cooled engine for use in the next generation Classic, Bullet and Thunderbird models. The new platform will see the use of a new frame and better cycle parts, and the new bikes are likely to make a debut by the end of this year or early next year. Seen in that light, the cut price Royal Enfield Bullet 350s could be a part of stock clearance in anticipation of the BS6 models.

Also Read: Upcoming Kia Seltos & MG Hector side-by-side: Which one looks better?

There are many ultra-rich individuals in India but when it comes to families, the Poonawalla family is one of the richest houses in India. Fortunately for us petrolheads, several members of the family have quite a good taste in automobiles and as a result, the Poonawalla family garage is among the biggest and most impressive in India. Their super expensive car collection ranges from ultra-luxury cars to high-end supercars among others. Last year, Adar Poonawalla brought home a black Mclaren 720S which was the first resident example of the car in India. Let’s now take a look at some of the best set of wheels this family owns.

Ferrari 458 Speciale Aperta

Owned by Yohan Z Poonawalla, this red Ferrari 458 Speciale Aperta is one of the few examples of the car in India. Yohan likes to mark his initials on most of his vehicles and this one also sports the same on its nose. Only 499 units of this car were ever built and Yohan was recently seen at the Ferrari’s 70-year anniversary celebration drive in Mumbai. Talking about the car, it is powered by a 4.5-litre V8 engine that generates a maximum of 597 Bhp and 540 Nm of torque. It can do 0-100 km/h in just 3.0 seconds and can reach a top speed of 320 km/h.

Ferrari 360 Spyder

Next up is another Ferrari in the form of the 360 Spyder. Built on an aluminium space-frame chassis, this ravishing red sports car is quite often seen with Adar Poonawalla. It is powered by a 3.6-litre V8 engine that produces a maximum of 395 Bhp and can do 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds. Despite being discontinued nearly 14 years back, the car still makes heads turn like no other regular car would do.

Batmobile

Among all the road-hugging supercar rides we have seen till date, the Batmobile is one the coolest for sure. Adar Poonawalla, therefore, commissioned a Batmobile as he had the power and money to get one made for his son. Built on a Mercedes-Benz S-Class, this pre-Tumbler era Batmobile replica has been seen a few times on the roads of Pune with Adar behind the wheels. At least we now know what billionaire kids play with.

Bentley Continental GT

Yohan and Adar Poonawalla, two adults of the family, are usually seen moving around in a blue coloured Bentley Continental GT that features a chrome dipped front grille. The Continental GT is available in two different engines, a V8 that puts out 521 Bhp – 680 Bhp along with a more powerful 6.0-litre W12 engine that produces a massive 626 Bhp – 820 Nm.

Lamborghini Gallardo

Another spectacular sports car owned by Yohan Poonawalla is the Lamborghini Gallardo seen above. the pre-facelift model carries a unique colour treatment that makes it stand out from other Gallardos in the country. One might notice that this Gallardo carries an 8055 (BOSS) number plate and Yohan has been seen quite a few times driving around in this Italian bull. This Sant’Agata beauty is powered by a 5.2-litre V10 engine that generates a maximum of 542 Bhp and 540 Nm of torque.

Rolls Royce Phantom

Natasha Poonawalla is a well-known name in the page 3 circles of the country and the philanthropist is mostly seen moving around in a Rolls Royce Phantom. The Phantom Series 1 she uses is powered by a 6.8 litre, naturally aspirated V12 petrol engine that churns out 453 Bhp of power and 720 Nm of torque. Apart from this Phantom, the Poonawalla family also owns several other Rolls Royce cars including a vintage Silver Shadow.

Rolls Royce Phantom DHC

The Phantom Drophead Coupe was the most expensive  Rolls Royce vehicle a few years back and offered luxury wrapped in a sporty package. This luxury convertible yacht of a car came to India in 2008 and offered a choice of several materials for its deck, including teak wood. The opulent coupe is powered by a 6.8-litre V12 petrol engine that generated a maximum of 453 Bhp and 720 Nm of peak torque.

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

The SLS AMG may not be the fastest or the most powerful sports car but it is special in its own right. Known for its majestically long low slung bonnet and those beautiful gullwing doors, the SLS AMG was among those once-in-a-while cars that are remembered long after they are discontinued. Owned by Yohan Ponawalla, this 300 SL inspired beauty is powered by a 6.2-litre bi-turbo V8 petrol engine that generates a maximum of 423 Bhp and 650 nm of torque.

Mercedes-Benz S600 L

With such a big business empire to handle, a few luxury saloons are a given inclusion in the Poonawalla garage. Among them is this Mercedes Benz S-Class S600 that was one of the best luxury cars of its time and its successors proudly carry the baton over their head. This generation model was powered by a 5.5-litre V12 engine that generates a maximum of 503 Bhp power and could do 0-100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds. Apart from this, there is a BMW 760 Li in the garage too!

Bentley Continental Flying Spur

Joining the Continental GT is this white four-door sedan version of the car that belongs to Yohan Poonawalla. The Continental Flying Spur is powered by a 6.0-litre twin-turbo W12 engine that puts out a maximum of 601 Bhp of maximum power 750 Nm. The car is seriously fast and can do 0-100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds.

Source: 1,5,7,9,10

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In a bid to gain more gains on the views and earn more money from the videos, people have started doing extreme things on the Internet. Kongara Remireddy, a B Tech graduate from Chellore, Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh did something peculiar that got him arrested right away. The videos were recorded in the Chittoor district’s railway junction limits.

The engineer uploaded videos on his YouTube channel with objects vegetables, fruits, pieces of chicken, toys, crackers, cycle chain among other to gain more views on YouTube. He recently put his motorcycle and an LPG cylinder on the railway track to record videos. After the videos became viral, the cops tracked him down using the registration details of the bike that he used on the railway track.

The police have arrested him and have also registered a case under sections 153 (Endangering the safety of persons travelling by railway by willful act or omission) and 143 (trespass of Railways) of Railways Act, 1989. The B Tech graduate got inspired by other YouTube videos on the Internet and doing similar stunts to gain publicity. The videos on his channels went viral, which is how the cops got to know about the incident and started looking for the youth. The police earlier received complaints from the locomotive drivers about similar incidents but they could not find any evidence. However, after the videos became viral, they were able to track down the youth.

The accused used the motorcycle on the train tracks to gain more views. However, the videos have been removed from the channel now. Also, the cops have said that the bike was removed before the train approached the spot. But the registration details of the motorcycle helped the police to catch him. His video of an LPG cylinder getting hit by the train and it flying off can be found out in several other channels. It is not known if the gas cylinder that got hit by the train was empty. Luckily, the impact did not make the cylinder, else, there could have been an explosion.

The railway track safety in India is not as strict as it should be. There are still many crossings where vehicles regularly get stuck and get saved by a few inches. There are a lot of accidents where people rush to cross the railway track in a bid to save time. It is quite dangerous to do such acts on the railway tracks and putting objects in front of the train. Objects getting hit by the train can fly at high speed and can hurt people around. One should always be extremely cautious when the train approaches a crossing as the trains take a long distance to come to a complete stop due to high momentum.

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