There are a couple of facelifts and updates headed to current product ranges. And it would make sense for you as a buyer to check them out before making your purchase. Here are a couple of them:
Maruti Alto 800
Why mend if it’s not broken, right? Well, that certainly applies for the Alto 800 unless there’s a new competitor in sight — which, in this case, happens to the be the Datsun redi-GO. So while Datsun readies the redi-GO, MSIL is likely to freshen up the Alto 800.
Expected to remain unchanged mechanically, the updated version gets a facelifted front-end, while a refreshed interior isn’t ruled out, either (in early reports). Since Renault Nissan has shown with the Kwid that they can price their products aggressively, expect the Datsun redi-GO’s presence to keep the Alto 800 Facelift’s prices in check.
Why wait?
The Alto 800 isn’t the best looking car in the segment, but it’s certainly almost bullet-proof elsewhere. An updated look makes it slightly more desirable, which is of course a good thing.
Renault Kwid
The Kwid’s reign is certainly going to get affected by the upcoming Alto 800 and the Datsun redi-GO, but thankfully there’s a new version just around the corner. You see, the Kwid might be performing very well at the bottom of Renault’s range, but it can obviously do with a few more horses under the bonnet and an optional AMT gearbox.
The more powerful 1-liter engined version was showcased at the 2016 Auto Expo and will be launched in the coming months. Also, since the company also showed interest in introducing aesthetically modified versions of the Kwid, things are about to get interesting in the small car segment.
Why wait?
It will be more powerful and practical (latter in case of the AMT) but only slightly more expensive. And as a long term investment, it’s likely to make more sense than the regular version.
Honda Brio
We’ve said it time and again that the least expensive Honda on sale in the country is also one of the best to drive. The small footprint makes it the ideal city car, and the 1.2-liter, high-revving engine backs it up, too. However it can do with updated styling and a better interior — and that’s what the facelift’s going to get.
The Brio facelift has been introduced in certain markets already. And with the Amaze facelift (with the same updates as seen on the former) making its way to India, it’s a matter of a few months before the Brio also arrives here.
Why wait?
Refreshed styling and a much improved dashboard design.
Mahindra TUV300
The sub-four meter SUV from Mahindra might be one of its newer products on sale — given it was launched last year only — but an update is on its way.
The 1.5-liter, 3-cylinder engine that also powers the Nuvosport currently makes less power in the TUV300. Now that’s a disappointment for those looking for muscular styling (which the TUV300 proudly boasts) with ample power, which the TUV doesn’t get, yet. The update will up the power and torque figures to 100 hp and 240 Nm.
Why wait?
Although not to everyone’s taste, the TUV has the looks of a powerful SUV. So what’s the harm in waiting a few days for something that’s more of a complete product!
Toyota Etios
One of the most no-nonsense vehicles to have graced the Indian market, the Toyota Etios also happens to be a great value for money product in the segment. Priced closer to the compact sedan class but with enough space to compete with midsize sedans, the Etios does lack in terms of looks and interior feel.
Toyota is currently working on an updated version of the vehicle, so expect changes happening in the looks department. Caught testing in India, the vehicle gets a new-ish looking front-end, a digital instrument cluster inside, and a wider rear bumper.
Why wait?
The current Etios, although a well-rounded product, isn’t exciting to look at. A facelift will ideally make it more likeable, and is certainly worth the wait.
Fiat Urban Cross
The Fiat Avventura Powered by Abarth is as driver oriented as a hatchback crossover can get. And it doesn’t necessarily need an update, either. But its styling is obviously an acquired taste: you either love it or you don’t. The weakest (or the strongest) link here is of course the boot-mounted spare wheel.
Now if you’re looking for something in the segment but think the spare tyre is better off in the boot, and the rugged styling can be toned down a little, then the Urban Cross makes sense for you.
Why wait?
It gets the same Abarth treatment as the Avventura sans the spare wheel strapped outside. It’s more of a conventional hatchback but if the Auto Expo exhibit is anything to go by, expect a more premium interior, nice styling, and all the goodness the Avventura Powered by Abarth offers. There’s likely to be a new touchscreen infotainment system, too.
Skoda Rapid
Almost overshadowed by the Vento, the Skoda Rapid does everything well in the C-segment. But since it’s basically running the same front-end as the Fabia it was based on, it’s about time Skoda makes it look fresher.
The facelift, expected before the festive season, is going to bring just that. Everything else is fine with the vehicle: it drives well, has good space inside, and feels well-built, too.
Why wait?
The facelift will make it look more unique, and give the Rapid a new, sharper-looking front end that is more inline with the rest of the Skoda range.