Fiat Linea 125S
Expected launch: June-July 2016; Expected price: Rs 10.5 lakh onwards
The more powerful version of the Linea T-Jet, called the Linea 125S will also makes its way to the market. Showcased at the 2016 Auto Expo, the Linea 125S will sit atop the line-up, with a 125PS and 210 Nm producing engine under the bonnet. The car is styled slightly differently to distinguish itself from the regular versions — mainly the use of black instead of chrome — while a touchscreen infotainment system is also expected, apart from the features the top-spec Linea gets.
Ford Mustang
Expected launch: June-July 2016; Expected price: Rs 65 lakh onwards
Unless you owned an American classic back in the day, getting one today is difficult because not only don’t they come to India, but also when they do, they have the steering wheel on the wrong side w.r.t our driving. But with the RHD Ford Mustang out, the problem’s pretty much solved. The car will be available in the country with a burbling 5-liter V8 powerplant under the bonnet mated to an automatic gearbox that sends 401 PS and 515 Nm from the engine to the 19-inch rear wheels. With its fastback styling, sportscar dynamics, and the ability to seat four, the Mustang is the one to wait for.
Jeep Wrangler
Expected launch: June-July 2016; Expected price: Rs 35 lakh onwards
And unlike in the past, it’s raining icons this year for the Indian market. If you aren’t too impressed by the Fastback and want something more rugged and off-road type, then there’s of course the Jeep Wrangler. The brand will finally enter the Indian market this year, with an appearance made at the 2016 Auto Expo in February. The Wrangler is the proper off-road-ready Jeep that 4×4 enthusiasts will love. The longer wheelbase (5-door) version will make it to India, and will be powered by a 2.8-liter diesel unit that makes 197 hp. Considering it takes about 10 seconds to hit 0-100 kmph, you are unlikely to feel slow on the tarmac. But with solid axles, off it is where the Jeep will shine.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Expected launch: June-July 2016; Expected price: Rs 50 lakh onwards
The other Jeep headed to the Indian market is the Grand Cherokee. The top of the line vehicle will compete against other seven-seat premium SUVs, and will be available in two flavours; a 3-liter V6 diesel engined and one that brings another iconic arrangement of letters together:
Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT
Expected launch: June-July 2016; Expected price: Rs 1.2 crore onwards
SRT is Chrysler’s high performance division and the Grand Cherokee with this badge will be the first such high performance SUV by the Jeep brand for the Indian market. The SRT will use a 6.4-liter petrol engine that makes 461 hp, and can propel the SUV to 100 kmph in just above 5 seconds. That’s one really, really quick SUV.