When you meet you friends you say yo! With a three finger symbol! (\m/) When you see Ekta Kapoor’s soap operas, the vamp says the main dialogue which is repeated thrice and camera is focused three times!!!

We all love our cars and we love the adrenaline rush when they reach “3″ DIGIT NUMBERS and they are driven by “3″ pedals (accelerator brake clutch! ABC), you get 3 spoke steering (in most modern cars) and to look out of your car u get 3 mirrors!!! Ain’t all this MAGICAL?

3 is the number which is quietly being used in the AUTO WORLD FOR A LONGGG TIME!

Now we see the number 3 being used extensively!!! Lets start with Bajaj Auto. They just launched the Pulsar 200 NS and it has “3″ spark plugs. Let me tell you another example. The NEW BMW M Powered Diesel Engines are powered with “3″ turbochargers (2 small, 1 big, which has become quite a controversy around the world RIGHT NOW!)

See I can go on on with this, like we just witnessed the launch of the Chevrolet Beat with a “3″ cylinder diesel engine, which has taken the market with surprise boasting of the highest fuel efficiency figures and created a FORTUNE for GM-India. We see big manufacturers like Nissan using 3 cylinder petrol engine in Micra and Volkswagen using “3″ cylinder petrol/diesel engine in the VW Polo!! Infact the Volkswagen Up! which is about to be launched is a global Car for VW and it has a “3″ cylinder 1-litre petrol engine!!! Manufacturers like FORD has introduced a “3″ Cylinder turbocharged petrol engine for their new EcoSport (Compact SUV). Rumours suggest that HONDA may consder a 1.2-litre D-TEC “3″ cylinder diesel engine for Brio and Jazz!!!

We are getting some where aren’t we?

If u look around, the largest car manufacturer in India, Maruti Suzuki has been using “3″ cylinder K-series petrol engines to rule the small car market! (Wagon R, A-star, Estilo, etc, etc) Even Hyundai couldn’t resist this and bought the Eon with a 800cc “3 cylinder” petrol engine which is the most fuel efficient car in its category! It is not just small cars or cost effective cars. Big cars use “3″ modes of driving – COMFORT ADVANCED SPORT! (an example taken from VOLVO saloons).

Summing it up then I think “3″ is better then “4″ and good replacement for “2″ Hell! even Dominos just introduced the new “3″ cheese pizza! Its not just the auto industry but its around the world! What do you think?

- Mohit Soni

Jeep Grand Cherokee: This cult brand in the SUV category needs no introduction to auto enthusiasts. Although present in almost every country, this elusive brand has still not come to India, and seems there are no plans either in the immediate future. Jeep Grand Cherokee is a mid-size SUV produced by the Jeep division of Chrysler. The SUV has been in production since 1992 and has undergone design changes quite a bit since it first entered the scene, however what remains distinctive of this SUV is its seven slot window grille. Jeep Grand Cherokee comes in different variants from a 3.0l engine to a 6.1 engine.

Nissan Pathfinder / Murano / Armada / Patrol: All heavy-duty SUV’s in their respective versions, Nissan is still not talking whether at all these massive vehicles will ever come to India, even though the company has big plans in India. While Patrol has been in production since 1951, Murano and Armada was introduced post millennium. Of all the SUV’s that Nissan manufacturers, Murano is the only mid-crossover SUV and a design that’s futuristic – a design that will be wrapped by Indian audiences if introduced. With Renault launching the Duster, it will be interesting to see Murano as well on Indian roads.

Infiniti QX / FX: If BMW and Mercedes can find fans in the luxury SUV segment, there is no reason Infiniti to fear if it ever comes to India. The luxury brand of Nissan, Infiniti first started its marketing operations in North American in 1989. Since then, the brand has expanded toMiddle East,South Korea,Russia,Taiwan,China, Ukraine and the United Kingdom. Will this luxury brand ever come to India? Time will only tell.

Toyota RAV4: If there is any better time for Toyota to bring its compact SUV to India, it is now. The vehicle was designed for those consumers who wanted the room of a SUV but maneuverability and economy of a small car. In fact, RAV4 was the first compact SUV that was introduced in Japan and Europe in 1994 and paved way for the Ford Escape and Subaru Forester. Toyota has found success in India with its Fortuner and replicating the same success for its compact SUV shouldn’t be a task. We await this SUV.

Kia Sportage: This South Korean auto major has a line-up that will be of interest to Indian audiences but we await the Kia Sportage. Although Kia has never indicated interest to enter the Indian market, Sportage if launched can be a good competition to Xylos, Innovas and Scorpios of the market.

Buick Encore: This maybe a long distant dream but if iconic Buick does enter India, it will enthrall one and all and for sure it would be over the budget for commoners. This General Motors owned Buick Encore is an exquisite crossover SUV retaining its old-style grille giving it a premium look.

Mazda Tribute:  One of the brands that the writer himself would like to see in India soon is the Mazda (along with Mazda XX-7 and A2, A5, A6). Although their entry has been doing the auto world since April last year, there has been no update on when is that likely to happen. The Mazda if they do come, should get its compact SUV – Tribute to India. The Tribute has been jointly developed with Ford Motor Company and is based on the front wheel drive Mazda 626 platform. The Tribute made its debut in 2000 and underwent facelift in 2007.

GMC Terrain / Acadia: Huge might be an understatement to define the size of GMC Terrain and Acadia. GMC, a division of General Motors has been known for its trucks in the US markets and was the second largest selling automobile manufacturer after Chevrolet. Probably, they master in making trucks which is why their SUV’s come in extraordinary sizes. These GMC SUV’s if they do arrive, will sure be a tough competition in its size at least.

Dodge Durango: Another massive looking SUV from the Chrysler stable of Dodge, Durangofirst came into production in 1998. Since then the SUV has been a hit. This rear wheel drive / four wheel drive SUV is powered by engines ranging from 3.6l to 5.9l with automatic gears. The Durango is in its third generation but has hardly undergone any changes in its design. Will this gas guzzler ever come to India? Not anytime soon, for sure.

Ford Taurus / Expedition / Explorer: Ford has finally picked up India and by showcasing the Ford EcoSport at the recently concluded Auto Expo 2012, it seems pretty clear how serious they are of the Indian market. Although, the company has found success in their hatchback / sedan category of vehicles, will it be repeated for SUV’s, time will tell. But then the question remains  will that mean we have to wait for long to see Taurus / Expedition / Explorer – all powerful machines and have proved their mantle in international markets.

Cadillac Escalade: If there is one vehicle which is the featured in most rap music videos, it is undoubtedly this. The Escalade is a luxury SUV, which is most often seen in black, sporting big and bling wheels. It is powered by a monstrous 6.2-litre, V8 engine which produces 400 horses and an insane 565 Nm of torque. On sheer size alone, the Cadillac Escalade can fit in the shoes of the Hummer (which is now a defunct brand)!

Which is your favourite of these?

CarWale Vintage Wheels 2011 - Click above for high resolution picture gallery

CarWale and Inorbit Malls have organised Vintage Wheels 2011, an annual event which showcases timeless classics for two weeks at Inorbit Malad and Vashi. This year over 40 cars have participated in the drive to Lonavla including the 1929 Fiat Millecento , 1932 Lancia, 1934 Austin-7, Ford Jeep-1942, 1946 Volkswagen Beetle, 1948 Wolseley, 1951 Cadillac, 1955 Austin 12, 1955 Fiat, 1955 Dodge Kingsway Custom, 1959 Dodge Custom Royal, 1960 Rover P5, 1961 Karmann Ghia, 1964 Sunbeam Rapier, 1965 Packard Chipper, 1966 Volkswagen Beetle, 1966 Mercedes 2388 and 1971 Mercedes Benz. City dwellers had a chance to ogle at such beauties early Sunday morning and Vivek Manjarekar from the MotorBeam team was present there snapping away to glory (check out the gallery above for more than 65 pictures).

“The event was supposed to flag off early but it didn’t till 10.30am. It was flagged of by Commissioner of Police, Navi Mumbai. It wasn’t that crowded. I heard people comment that the cars on display last year were better and more in quantity this time. The Ford Mustang GT was the pick of the lot with it’s ROARING sound attracting alot of crowd. Car No. 2 had to be pushed a few times by people to start. Each of those cars were flagged off with people clapping and cheering for them. Not much crowd really cause it was a Sunday morning and people were not there. I can say it was sort of dull in terms of crowd pulling” – Vivek Manjarekar.

XUV 500
Manufacturer: Mahindra
Status: Hit

As the curtains were pulled down, the first glimpse of the XUV 500 received a thumping applause. Mahindra knew it had hit the nail in the head again. XUV 500’s chiseled design, smashing looks and the 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engine (seen on the Scorpio but with more power and torque) became talk of the town but what beat everybody’s expectation was its price tag. At Rs10.80lakh ex-showroom, Mahindra had smartly positioned its Global SUV in a category that could set another set of price wars. The masses lapped it up so fast, that Mahindra had to stop bookings. Now that’s what you call a blockbuster hit.

Verna
Manufacturer: Hyundai
Status: Hit

After riding success on its i10 and i20, Hyundai has been on a high ever since. The manufacturer since then decided to go on an overdrive with new designs for its existing marquee. The Verna from Hyundai has always been a good car but lacked the design that could tickle the Indian sensibilities. The ’Fluidic’ design for its Verna (internationally launched as new Accent) was well lapped up. With a choice of two petrol and two diesel engines (1.4 and 1.6) both have proved to be best amongst its class. The car has been the talk-of-the-town ever since. Now it is heard that the Elantara too will be launched with a new design.

Eon
Manufacturer: Hyundai
Status: Hit

From the moment Hyundai unveiled its plans to bring in a competition to Maruti Alto, everybody has been on the look of what it will offer. Hyundai over the years have gained the trust in Indians and the success of i10 and i20 is an example. Since then auto enthusiasts have been scanning the roads to spot the Eon testing. Finally, Hyundai launched its ambitious car October this year amidst much expectation and it didn’t let down either. The engine has been derived from Santro – although three cylinders instead of four and power output down to 56bhp. With the car being given the now known Hyundai family design, it was surely an eye-catcher. Ample space, typical Hyundai techtronics and a spot-on price; India surely went On with Eon.

Etios Liva
Manufacturer: Toyota
Status: Hit

Toyota entered the mass category late last year with Etios. The well-positioned sedan was an instant hit. Riding on the success, Toyota launched the hatchback version of Etios called Liva with a smaller engine – 1.2liter 4-cylinder powerplant. Except for the boot, everything else remaining much the same. The hatchback too has been a good seller for Toyota.

Brio
Manufacturer: Honda
Status: Average

Honda too launched its much hyped Brio this year. The car which has been a good seller for Honda in the international markets and its unique rear design garnering interest; Honda expected its Brio to make a splash in Indian markets as well. As expected, it did turn heads but not enough to take them to the booking counter. Honda plonked the same 1.2-litre i-Vtec engine that does duty in the Jazz, under the Brio’s bonnet. Another reason for a lukewarm response for Brio could be the fact that it was launched at a time when the petrol prices were going over the roof, people chose to look the other way round.

Sunny
Manufacturer: Nissan
Status: Average

Nissan was a lesser known brand name in the Indian market. Masses didn’t know much about the company and the cars they made but all that was put to rest when Nissan launched the 370Z inIndiacouple of years ago. Suddenly, Nissan became the talking point and well they did maintain that enthusiasm with the Micra – a car for the masses. Sunny which first went into production in 1966 has been a known name in the international markets. It was right time for Nissan to follow up the success of Micra with a sedan and Sunny did manage that too some extent.

Fiesta
Manufacturer: Ford
Status: Average

The Ford Fiesta has always been a driver’s car. The Fiesta 1.6 has been a darling for many and people who own swear by its performance. When Ford decided to overhaul the existing Fiesta, it did have a challenge in hand. While the design should be contemporary; the driving pleasure that the old car gives should be maintained or bettered. The new Fiesta with its aerodynamic design and crease lines on the side giving it a sports car feel was an instant hit. Ford did it again. First with Figo and now Fiesta.  It’s also heard that a hatch of the Fiesta is expected to hit roads in 2012.

Swift
Status: Hit
Manufacturer: Maruti

The undisputed king of the Indian automobile market made a splash with the new Swift. Maruti Swift has always been a good selling car and its new design, with a sweeping head and rear lamps; a slightly larger wheelbase and a new rear design – the new Swift was all appreciated. Although facing stiff competition from Volkswagen Polo, Ford Figo and Fiat Punto and Hyundai i20, the Swift continues to hold a share in the market.

Kizashi
Manufacturer: Maruti Suzuki
Status: Miss

Kizashi has been an ambitious project from the Maruti Suzuki stable. Positioned as an upmarket car, it was always going to be tough for Maruti as for years the manufacturer has been known for producing cars for the masses – cars that are affordable. Can Maruti really deliver with Kizashi was the question. Well, the car indeed looks good and is a pleasure driving but it still faces the problem that Vitara also faces. Can Maruti actually produce powerful vehicles. Well, time will only tell.

Force One
Manufacturer: Force Motors
Status: Miss

Force Motors which until now was predominantly present in the mini-van section and a ubiquitous Trax, rolled out its maiden SUV Force One this year. With a 2.2-litre engine Merc engine under its hood, Force Motors did hit the nail and auto enthusiasts have been talking about the ability of the vehicle, however a 4×4 version is what everybody is waiting for. Only coming months will say whether Force Motors got everything correct or not.

Fluence
Manufacturer: Renault
Status: Average

The Renault Fluence was the first car from Renault as an independent company. The car looks extremely good and has class leading space. The ride quality is extremely good too and the 1.5-liter diesel unit is high on mileage and refinement. However the lack of equipment on the diesel model and small dealership network has lead to average sales of the Fluence, which will soon get new diesel variants with more features.

If chain emails circulating are to be believed, then we do pay way too much for petrol than even our neighbours. But has that deterred consumers from switching on to diesel variants than petrol? Sales figures do suggest a downfall and quite a few that we spoke to shared the rising price of petrol as the main contention to switch variants. As we write this, there is news that petrol prices is further going to slash, so do we see a revive in the sales?

An employee with a Maruti dealer said that there has been hardly any fluctuation in demand for petrol variants for Maruti cars. “They are still in waiting as it was before the steep rise in petrol and even today. But yes, there is a strong demand for diesel cars now. So people who have slightly wider budget are opting for diesel cars than petrol.”

Sheetal Pawar ranks amongst those who chose to go diesel seeing the rising cost of petrol and the fuel economy. No sooner she realised that petrol prices are only to go higher, and her present car – i10 not going to give more than 12 kmpl, she decided to sell off her car and go for a diesel. She loved her car; it was the first but it was emptying her bank balance too. “Although my traveling was within South Mumbai, it was getting extremely painful to be at the gas station every third day. It was only 2 years old but I had to make a hard decision to let her go,” she said. Sheetal opted for a Maruti Dzire.

Surely, there has been a sharp rise in sales of diesel cars. Diesel cars, which were responsible for 31-32 per cent of the overall car industry sales now almost account to 48-50 per cent. The demand particularly shot up when consumers saw that the fuel price difference is as much Rs 25-30. Manufacturers like Hyundai, Volkswagen and Fiat have been pouring discounts on petrol variants of their hatchbacks to reduce the rush on diesel cars in the same category.

But for many petrol variants still is the best option. Like Suneel Ramakrishnan. Inspite of rising prices and a rollback, he opted for Nissan Micra just last month. “My reason for buying a petrol variant is that I know my car won’t be running daily as I reside and my office is in Vashi. A diesel car needs good running,” he says. Suneel plans to fit in LPG or CNG sometime soon once it has crossed the said kms.

Shashank Singh, who drives a Santro is sure what he wants to upgrade to. He says, “I am not an avid driver and I use car only to take out my family. Rising petrol prices won’t detest me as I can always opt for a duo.” Shashank is contemplating between i10 and WagonR duo.

Petrol variants have been popular inIndia for three main reasons: a) Low maintenance as compared to diesel variants, b) the on-road price is quite less and c) diesel engines weren’t as advanced as it is today.

“A typical indian mentality is – once you get your car, I shouldn’t be forced to spend on its maintenance. Even I was of the same mentality but since the time I have got my Dzire, I have been checking for oil change and all once a month. And the car is running really smooth,” says Sheetal.

Car manufacturers who play in the small car segment only have petrol engines to offer and to boost the sales are also coming out with lucrative offers to attract customers; compare this with the huge middle class population of India switching from bikes to cars will opt for these small cars as diesel cars would be out of budget for them. The rising petrol prices have not deterred manufacturers like Hyundai who launched their EON in October; Honda with Brio; Maruti launched the Alto with a K10 engine whose target audience is the emerging middle-class.

Thus, petrol cars will find its own consumers but if the government decides another hike (its being reduced now though), it could spell doom for manufacturers trying to sell petrol variants. But one thing is for sure, the attitude towards diesel cars have changed, so the coming year will be interesting to look for.

Mumbai (including peripherals) is probably the only place where driving is no more a pleasure but a pain. Traffic is one thing; but the pain is more caused by half dug roads, barricades without neons; and non-observant of lane driving. Here are some serious tips apart from the one issued by the government.

1) If you are driving early morning or late night, do not drive on the first lane. The Road Development Authority has kept construction barricades either to your right or left corners across any out-of-city route you take without glow signs. Always take the middle lane to be safe.

2) Respect the BMC garbage dumpers; they come overtaking without headlights and horn. Give way.

3) BMC casually parks its dumpers in the middle of the road, drive in high beam (I know some won’t agree) like everybody else to avoid any mishap.

4) How much ever tempted you are to throttle your engine on Palm Beach road, do not; you never know where the morning joggers are running and transport vehicles cross roads.

5) Road signs on expressway say do not cross 80kmph, respect that. Even if you don’t trucks overtaking each other at 20kmph will ensure that. Do not try stunts because you can’t see what lies ahead.

6) On expressway, do not think that people will signal you to overtake from right; they don’t. So check your left before switching lanes to left as Innova drivers are known for their lack of sense of vehicle length and ability.

7) Always carry change to pay toll. Or else you will be handed over toffees and biscuits. That’s cheating.

8) If you are driving solo, make sure you have had enough sleep the previous night; packed your bags, enough cash to for any technical problems and a set of clothes, just in case.

9) You want to move into the next lane but you guess the guy behind is too close for you to turn, and isn’t overtaking you either, don’t worry. Just switch your indicator on. The moment you do that, the guy behind will speed up and won’t let you turn. Try, it works in Mumbai. Once he is gone you are free to turn.

10) Do not fret over slow moving vehicles in front; some just don’t budge so control your emotions as it will only raise your blood pressure, leading to heart aches. (This was actually said by a doctor)

In what seems like yet another set back for the auto industry, car makers are planning to hike prices of their cars owing to depreciating Rupee. The companies are also claiming that their margine are affected severely due to higher cost of imports, leading to higher input costs. The price hike will be announced shortly and will be effective from January 1, 2012. December has always been a slow month for car sales as most buyers prefer to wait for the new year to get a next year model, which will command better resale in the market. Thus this whole price hike from next year is not the first time that prices have been increased. It happens every year and is just a measure for company’s to clear inventory of previous year models. While some car makers do rely heavily on imported content, but we must not forget that some vehicle manufacturers also export a significant part of their inventory to global markets. With the Rupee depreciating, exporters benefit and have increased profits but that never gets passed to the customers!

“The rupee depreciation is adversely impacting us and this is the worst movement of the currency against the US dollar. It has lost 15% in the last two months. At the same time, we also export cars and that is benefiting us at present. Considering both, we are impacted as a net importer. The situation is affecting our margins,” Ajay Seth, CFO, Maruti Suzuki, said.

“This is definitely putting a lot of pressure and is negatively impacting us. Obviously, we are looking at passing the extra cost to the market and now this may happen earlier than the previously-planned revision in January,” P Balendran, vice-president, General Motors India, said.

“The rupee depreciation is adding to the cost and we will be going in for a revision from January next year,” Sandeep Singh, Deputy MD (sales and marketing), Toyota India, said.

“With the continuous devaluation of the rupee vs the euro and the dollar, we cannot rule out the necessity of realigning our pricing,” Michael Perschke, MD, Audi India, said.

HATCHBACKS

Renault Pulse
Expected Price: Rs. 6 lakhs
Launch: Early 2012
What to expect: A Micra which looks masculine and sporty.

Hyundai i20 Facelift
Expected Price: Rs. 5-8 lakhs
Launch: Early 2012
What to expect: The i20 gets the Fluidic show to match its go.

Tata Nano Diesel
Expected Price: Rs. 2.25 lakhs
Launch: Early 2012
What to expect: The world’s cheapest car, now with diesel. It is expected to return a mileage of 30 kmpl.

2012 Maruti 800
Expected Price: Early 2012
Launch: Rs. 2 lakhs
What to expect: Can Maruti Suzuki repeat history with this car?

MINI
Expected Price: Rs. 25 lakhs
Launch: Mid-2012
What to expect: The hot favourite hatchback from BMW with a rich heritage behind it.

Chevrolet Sonic
Expected Price: Rs. 5 lakhs
Launch: Mid-2012
What to expect: A spacious hatchback and sedan which will be very aggressively priced.

Ford Fiesta Hatchback
Expected Price: Rs. 7 lakhs
Launch: Mid-2012
What to expect: Ford bringing its sporty hatchback to compete in the premium segment. It is expected to give others a run for their money.

Maruti WagonR Diesel
Expected Price: Rs. 4 lakhs
Launch: Mid-2012
What to expect: First small car from Maruti Suzuki to get a compact diesel.

Renault Sandero
Expected Price: Rs. 5 lakhs
Launch: Mid 2012
What to expect: Renault is all set to go aggressive on the Indian market. The Sandero is expected to compete with the i10 and the Ford Figo.

Skoda Fabia Scout
Expected Price: Rs 7 lakhs
Launch: Mid-2012
What to expect: A Skoda Fabia with jacked-up suspension to provide you with some off-roading pleasure.

Mercedes Benz B Class
Expected Price: Rs 22 lakhs
Launch: Late 2012
What to expect: Mercedes venturing into the much sought after hatchback segment. It is more of a cross-over between a hatch and an MPV.

Volkswagen Up!
Expected Price: Rs 3.5 lakhs
Launch: Late 2012
What to expect: A real people’s car from Volkswagen.

COMPACT SEDANS

Mahindra Verito Compact Sedan
Expected Price: Rs. 4.5 lakhs
Launch: Early 2012
What to expect: Mahindra trying to gain excise duty benefits and make the Verito (renamed Logan) a hit

New Maruti Suzuki Swift Dzire
Expected Price: Rs. 6-7 lakhs
Launch: Early 2012.
What to expect: The revised Swift Dzire based on the new Swift but under 4 metre length. It is expected to be cheaper than the current Dzire.

Hindustan Motors Ambassador (Shortened)
Expected Price: Rs. 4.5 lakhs
Launch: Mid 2012
What to expect: The iconic Indian brand that used to rule the market once is again geared up to challenge competition with its Ambassador, but a compact one this time.

Tata Manza CS
Expected Price: Rs. 5 lakhs
Launch: End 2012
What to expect: A shortened version of the Manza like the Indigo CS.

SEDANS

Hyundai Sonata
Expected Price: Rs. 18 lakhs
Launch: Early 2012
What to expect: The next generation Sonata is a drastic improvement over its predecessor.

Chevrolet Cruze Facelift
Expected Price: Rs. 14 lakhs
Launch: Early 2012
What to expect: The Cruze gets its first facelift and even more power!

Audi A4 Facelift
Expected Price: Rs. 34 to 40 lakhs
Launch: Early 2012
What to expect: It is going to be more fuel efficient and also pack more punch with the new 3.-liter petrol producing 333 BHP.

Audi A5
Expected Price: Rs. 40 lakhs
Launch: Early 2012
What to expect: A stunning car with revised front and rear. Engine options: 2.0 TDi, 3.0 TDi and 1.8 TFSi.

Audi S6
Expected Price: Rs. 75 lakhs
Launch: Early 2012
What to expect: A high performance version of the A6 luxury sedan.

BWW M5
Expected Price: Rs. 1.2 crore
Launch: Early 2012
What to expect: The ultimate family saloon made by a company which makes the ultimate driving machine.

2012 Honda Civic
Expected Price: Rs. 14 lakhs
Launch: Mid 2012
What to expect: New looks, new interiors, same Honda reliability. Will it become the segment leader again?

New BMW 3 Series
Expected Price: Rs. 26 to 38 lakhs
Launch: Mid 2012
What to expect: More fun and more power from the best of all!

Hyundai Avante/Elantra
Expected Price: Rs. 14 lakhs
Launch: Mid 2012
What to expect: A smart looking sedan with powerful engines and high gadgetry.

Volvo C70
Expected Price: Rs. 80 lakhs
Launch: Late 2012
What to expect: Volvo bringing in their luxury offering to compete against the Merc SLK, Audi TT, BMW Z4 and Porsche Boxster.

Toyota Camry
Expected Price: Rs. 25 lakhs
Launch: Late 2012
What to expect: The next generation Camry arrives in India, hopefully with a diesel heart.

SUVs

Toyota Fortuner Facelift
Expected Price: Rs. 22 lakhs
Launch: Early 2012
What to expect: The best selling SUV gets a minor facelift. An autobox could debut as well.

Audi Q3
Expected Price: Rs. 25 lakhs
Launch: Early 2012
What to expect: Audi gearing up to bring it offering to compete against the Toyota Fortuner and the Honda CR-V.

Chevrolet Captiva Facelift
Expected Price: Rs. 20 lakhs
Launch: Early 2012
What to expect: The Captiva gets a much needed refresh along with more power and features.

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport
Expected Price: Rs. 20 lakhs
Launch: Early 2012
What to expect: A real Fortuner competitor, both in price and size.

Volkswagen Touareg
Expected Price: Rs. 60 lakhs
Launch: Early 2012
What to expect: Debuting at the 2012 Auto Expo, VW is bringing this to venture into the SUV segment. One of the awaited ones going by its Dakar dominance.

Mahindra Ssangyong Korando
Expected Price: Rs. 15 lakhs
Launch: Mid 2012
What to expect: Mahindra successfully took Ssangyong under its belt and the first product out of ths is the Korando. It is expected to be powered by a 2 litre, 4 cylinder one producing 175 PS @ 4000 RPM.

Ford EcoSport
Expected Price: Rs. 8 lakhs
Launch: Mid 2012
What to expect: Compact SUV which will do a Figo for SUVs.

Renault Duster
Expected Price: Rs. 8 to 10 lakhs
Launch: Mid 2012
What to expect: A value for money SUV which will shake the compact SUV segment.

Chevrolet Trailblaizer
Expected Price: Rs 20 lakhs
Launch: Mid 2012
What to expect: An all new SUV from Chevrolet, it is built on the new global midsize platform developed by GM Brazil.

Mahindra Ssangyong Rexton
Expected Price: Rs. 18 lakhs
Launch: Late 2012
What to expect: The bigger sibling of the Korando with a 2.7 litre turbo charged diesel producing 184 PS and 402 Nm of torque!

MPVs

Chevrolet Tavera TCDi
Expected Price: Rs. 8 lakhs
Launch: Early 2012
What to expect: Common rail power makes its way to this practical MUV.

Mahindra Mini Xylo
Expected Price: Rs. 5 lakhs
Launch: Early 2012
What to expect: Loads of space for a killer price!

Maruti Suzuki Ertiga
Expected Price: Rs. 8 lakhs
Launch: Mid 2012
What to expect: Maruti Suzuki venturing into the MPV segment. Will it be an Innova killer?

Nissan NV200 Van
Expected Price: Rs. 14 lakhs
Launch: Early 2012
What to expect: Nissan is also planning to take on the Innova with this controversial looking MPV. It is expected to be a 10 seater.

Toyota Innova Facelift
Expected Price: Rs. 10-14 lakhs
Launch: Early 2012
What to expect: Revised look to the car that has continued to rule the MPV segment with dominance.

Force MPV
Expected Price: Rs. 10 lakhs
Launch: End 2012
What to expect: Force Motors going aggressive in India after launching the Force One. Lots of space and low price.

SUPERCARS

Mercedes SLS AMG Roadster
Expected Price: Rs. 3 crores
Launch: End 2012
What to expect: The convertible version of the gorgeous looking SLS AMG, it is definitely going to be loved by the super rich Indians.

2012 Porsche 911
Expected Price: Rs. 95 lakh onwards
Launch: End 2012
What to expect: The 2012 version of the famous 911 having a option of a 7-speed manual gearbox as well along with the Porsche PDK dual clutch.

Ferrari 458 Italia Spider
Expected Price: Rs. 3 crore
Launch: End 2012
What to expect: The latest from Maranello, which lets you feel the wind in your hair.

“BlueMotion” the next thing by the German car brand Volkswagen – Das Auto making its mark in the Indian Auto industry. Mercedes Benz says it Blue-efficiency and the Bimmer, BMW calls it Efficient Dynamics. These Blue technologies has nothing to do with the color blue, it’s just a fine blend of some modern age technologies for better performance and better fuel efficiency. Making it further more convenient and eco-friendly too. So let’s have a ride in the Blue Park to understand what it is all about.

● Improved aerodynamics:

The vehicle is re-designed for some factors to reduce the air drag, particularly on the underbody and lower ride height. less air drag results for better and easy attainment of top speed reducing the high acceleration rate

● Reduced rpm level:

Engines are built to run on low rpm ranges but having a reconfigured gearbox (modified gear spread) which doesn’t affect the driving torque or the speed as compared to the conventional car.

● Lower exhaust gas values:

Since the top gear has been configured with a higher ratio in the Blue-Motion gearboxes, the engine speed is reduced compared with conventional gearboxes. Reducing the engine speed reduces the CO2 emissions as well as the fuel consumption.

● Low rolling resistance tires.

It has been possible to further reduce the rolling resistance of the tyres by improving the material properties. The engine power of the vehicle therefore has to overcome less tyre rolling resistance to accelerate the vehicle. This helps save fuel.

● Regeneration (energy recovery during braking)

This function has been configured so that the alternator voltage is raised in the deceleration and braking phases. This leads to increased charging of the battery. This supports the deceleration of the vehicle. The alternator load is thus reduced in acceleration phases. This relieves the burden on the engine and thus reduces fuel consumption

● Low-friction drive shafts

Special material modifications have allowed the smooth-running properties of the drive shaft bearings to be improved thanks to lower frictional resistance. Less friction means less energy loss and thus lower fuel consumption.

● Start/stop system

This smart system is used to reduce the consumption by automatically switching off the engine while the vehicle is stationary and then starting it again automatically when the driver wants to drive off. The start/stop mode is activated automatically as soon as the vehicle has traveled at a speed of at least 3km/h for around four seconds after pulling away.

- Deep Makwana

We at MotorBeam are pleasantly surprised with what’s happening in the Indian automotive industry of late. It seems as if the car-makers have suddenly figured out the formula to crack open our market and are hell-bent on succeeding in their attempts. Still guessing on the magic formula? It is nothing but ‘Value For Money’, something that we Indians love. What else would explain the killer prices at which the car makers are launching their all-new models one by one that is proving to be a shock not only for those in the industry circles but also to the general public? By doing so, they not only attract attention and increase the footfalls in their showrooms but also manage to successfully convert them into bookings and are laughing all the way to the bank. Case in point being the most recent launches from Mahindra and Honda, the XUV 500 and the Brio.

Being an Indian company, Mahindra knows the hearts and minds of Indian customers like the back of their hand. And, they proved it with their all-new global SUV, the XUV 500. Being the first ever model from Mahindra that was designed and developed to international standards with features and technology found only on cars a segment or two higher, the base variant of the XUV 500 was expected to retail atleast for around 13 lacs, going upto 15 lac rupees for the top-end version. But, when Mr. Anand Mahindra announced the ex-showroom prices that undercut the estimates by atleast a couple of lacs, the media and the public went into a frenzy. Quite deservingly, the XUV 500 has garnered a staggering 5000 bookings within the first few days of its launch in only 5 cities and the company is already quoting a waiting list of 3 months for delivery. Busy times ahead for Mahindra then, until they fulfill these initial orders!

Even Honda, the Japanese manufacturer hitherto known for charging a premium in all its models and getting away with it due to its superior brand-image, has jumped onto the ‘VFM’ bandwagon. Agreed, they learnt their lessons the hard way and were forced to shave off a significant amount from the ex-showroom prices after the debacle of Jazz, arguably the best premium hatchback in India that failed only due to Honda’s insane pricing. Then came the price cuts for the City, Honda’s perennial best-seller that lost its leadership to newer competitors that offered more value for money. Apparently, those were only the beginning. When Honda announced that the Brio’s prices starts from 3.95 lac onwards, cheaper than its chief challenger the Hyundai i10 1.2, they proved that they mean serious business and are not ready to repeat their mistakes. Expect people to flock to Honda showrooms like there is no tomorrow.

All these only spell good times for the car-buying public. The cut-throat competition amongst the car-makers in gaining a bigger share of the ever-growing pie that is the Indian market is proving to be a blessing in disguise to the customers. Expectations are steadily going up and the car-makers in turn are slugging it out and trying to beat each other in living upto those expectations. Features that were once found only in entry-luxury cars are now standard fare in small cars. The companies have finally understood that Indians appreciate ‘value’ more than anything else and are wary of getting punished for their premium pricing strategies. Let these good times roll and the festive season for the automotive industry continue forever!

- Aravind Ramesh