Latest: Mahindra Quanto launched at Rs 5.82 lakh (Ex-showroom Thane)

Homegrown automaker, Mahindra & Mahindra has finally launched its much anticipated Mahindra Quanto today at a starting price of Rs 5.82 lakh (Ex-showroom Thane). Sharing the famous Ingenio platform, Mahindra Quanto is a sub-4 meter MPV (Multi Purpose Vehicle).

 
Mahindra Quanto aka Mini Xylo is packed with a new diesel mill, mCR 100. The 1.5litre engine is an altered version of mHawk diesel motor and will be belting out top power of 98.6 bhp and peak torque of 24.4 kgm. The sporty MPV will deliver ARAI certified mileage of 17.21 kmpl. Linked to a five speed manual transmission, Mahindra Quanto is offered in four variants C2, C4, C6 and C8.

 
Mahindra’s exclusive Micro Hybrid technology is standard on all trims except for the base variant, C2. Fully loaded with features, Mahindra Quanto top end variant, C8 gets power windows, entailing Digital Drive Assist System (borrowed from Xylo), power ORVMs, Stylish alloy wheels, height adjustable driver’s seat, dash incorporated CD, MP3 & radio and body colored stylish bumpers.

 
For added safety in C8, it is supplied with reverse parking sensor, front airbags, ABS and a rear defogger. The next in line variant C6 is packed with similar gadgets except for reverse parking sensors, airbags and alloy wheels.

 
Entailing Quanto is available in six exciting shades namely Fiery Black, Java Brown, Mist Silver, Toreador Red, Diamond White and Rocky Beige. Mahindra Quanto C2 is priced @ Rs 5.82 lakh, C4 @ Rs 6.35 lakh, C6 @ Rs 6.86 lakh and C8 @ Rs 7.36 lakh (Ex-showroom Thane).

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Latest: Peugeot Citroen Halts Plan for India, Surrenders Sanand Land

French multinational manufacturer, Peugeot Citroen has considered making a halt of its plans for India as of now as it ceded the ownership right of a 600-acre land based at Sanand, Gujarat. Last year in around August, the auto giant shared its plans for embedding Rs. 4,000 crore manufacturing facility in Gujarat and also declared to launch a sedan by this year end.

 
This was a new initiative from the French carmaker with an aim to revive itself in India after fifteen long years. But the same is now kept on hold as the company has to focus on its flagship venture based near home and right now it is fighting against all odds related to financial crisis to animate its century old existence.

 
According to people close to the development team, Peugeot Citroen failed to pay periodic payments to the Gujarat Government and deferred the plans of acquiring green field plant with 1.70 lakh units capacity along with holding future plans. The second-largest carmaker in Europe signed a State Support Agreement (SSA) with the Gujarat government last year in September for establishing its new plant in India.

 
Managing Director of Gujarat Industrial Development Corporation (GIDC), M Sahu stated, “Peugeot Citroen has planned to hold all its plans for India.” The GIDC is a nodal agency that allots lands to industries in Gujarat.

 
A person close to the Indian unit of Peugeot Citroen mentioned that the company has no commitments for India as of now and any new possibilities will occur only by 2015-16. Basically the Paris based automaker is currently focusing on Europe, its key market and thus India is quite afar on the map.

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Latest: Mahindra Quanto - Door to Fun Now Open (Expert Review)

Mahindra has once again launched a winner on 20th September, 2012 in the name of Mahindra Quanto. A compressed form of Mahindra Xylo, Quanto is a stylish vehicle with terrific appeal and fit & finish. The all new Mahindra Quanto possesses a serious threat to Maruti Ertiga and Renault Duster as it is positioned in the similar price bracket. Promoted to cater buyers switching from their small cars to premium hatchbacks and sedans, Mahindra Quanto has got everything to satisfy them whether it is its brilliant styling or sedan matching comfort inside the cabin.

 
Mahindra Quanto takes forward M&M’s tradition of building macho vehicles with plenty of masculinity evident from its robust exteriors. Looks compact from outside but is generously spacious with seven passenger seating space. Embraced with high end features like the Digital Drive Assist System, Reverse parking sensor, Airbags, ABS and many others, Mahindra Quanto has got it all to challenge its competitors. The compact vehicle is offered in four trims C2, C4, C6 & C8 and is available in six sensational shades viz., Fiery Black, Java Brown, Mist Silver, Toreador Red, Diamond White and Rocky Beige.

 
Majestic Mahindra Quanto is locking horns with Renault Duster, Maruti Ertiga, Premier Rio and Toyota Innova.
 

Exteriors :-
 

Famous for developing macho vehicles, Mahindra has taken forward its tradition with the new Mahindra Quanto. Eyed to carve out its own niche segment, Mahindra Quanto MPV (Multi Purpose Vehicle) boasts of similar outfit as seen in its big brother Mahindra Xylo. Based on the Ingenio platform, Quanto is a sub-4 meter vehicle and is identical from front with Xylo but in the rear, it gets new shortened tail lamps. Moreover, a rear mounted spare wheel gives a distinct identity to the Quanto. Six spoke alloys are also supplied in the Quanto.

 
Interiors :-
 

Despite its compact styling, Mahindra Quanto boasts of enough space of a traditional MPV. Marketed as a potential seven seater SUV, Mahindra Quanto has 2+3+2 arrangement with last row seats facing each other. Comfortable seats with state-of-art features, Quanto is loaded with ecstatic features like the Courtesy lamps, Roof console with glass holder, Sleek digital clock with topper pad, Entailing Digital Drive Assist System (DDAS) with topper pad and many more. Other features and upholstery remains similar to the new Xylo with even airbags making their way into the compact Quanto.

 
Engine, Specification & Performance :-
 

Powered by a 1.5 litre 3-cylinder twin turbo BS IV compliant diesel engine, Mahindra Quanto churns out top power of 100 bhp at 3750 rpm along with exceptional torque of 240 Nm at 1600- 2800 rpm. A five speed manual transmission is linked to the powerful diesel engine.

 
With Mahindra Quanto being lighter than Xylo and boasting 3-cylinder engine, the compact MPVs 0-100 acceleration is in 17.8 seconds with a speed limit of 140-150 kmph. For the architecture part, Mahindra Quanto is supplied with Independent double wishbone, coil springs with anti-roll bar for front suspension and five bar link coil springs for the rear one.

 
Comfort and Convenience :-
 

Mahindra Quanto features list comprise of HVAC, Tilt adjustable steering, Floor console, Bluetooth connectivity, Rear window demister, Height-adjustable driver’s seat, Center armrest for driver and front passenger, Bottle holder, Adjustable headrest, Foldable snack tray, Driver under seat storage, Door trim fabric insert, Power windows, Power steering, AC with auto climate function, Central locking, Digital Drive Assist System, Courtesy lamp, Mobile charging points, Dash integrated CD, MP3 & radio.

 
Safety :-
 

Mahindra & Mahindra have packed their Quanto with enough safety features to ensure complete protection of its occupants. It includes ABS (Anti-lock Breaking System), Driver and co-driver airbags, Front fog lamps, Child lock on middle and rear door, Intellipark Reverse Assist, Digital immobilzer, Rear wash & wiper, etc.

 
Mileage :-
 

The all new Mahindra Quanto is offering ARAI certified mileage of 17.21 kmpl.
 
Price :-
 

The utility giant continues to tag its vehicles aggressively with the new Mahindra Quanto placed in the price slot of Rs 5.82 lakh – Rs 7.36 lakh (Ex-showroom Thane)

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Latest: VW Goes Big on Discount Offering with Both Polo Hatch and Vento Sedan

Though festive season in India usually witnesses car sales at their yearly high, but this time same doesn’t seem to happen. In fact auto industry looks covered by glooms of despair because of sluggish demand in market. To make their products more attractive, automakers have planned to offer various freebies on them in celebratory season. In the list, one name is reserved for Volkswagen group, which is going big on discounts with its best-selling cars, the Vento sedan and Polo hatchback. Besides this, carmaker is also presenting loan finance scheme with low rate of interest of 5.99% and an additional discount for corporate bookings. The discount offering is only up to 25th September, 2012, where Polo can be taken home by paying Rs. 55,000 less than usual and Vento will see 70,000 off on its select variants.

 
Recently Volkswagen gave a makeover to top end highline variants of Polo and Vento to make them more mesmerising. Both the cars got few cosmetic changes along with additional features without any extra cost and that is the plus point which can add more sales to VW’s business. Both Polo and Vento are famous for their solid build quality, good ride, handling and high quality interiors.

 
Coming to technical specifications of these cars, both of them come with naturally aspirated petrol and turbo diesel engines. While Polo is adorned with a 1.2 litre, 3 cylindrical petrol engine and a 1.2 litre TDI turbo diesel engine, Vento is housed with 1.6 lire 4 cylindrical petrol engine and a 1.6 litre TDI turbo diesel engine. All these engines are mated to five speed manual gear box but Vento petrol engine gets an extra 6 speed automatic gearbox fixed in it.

 
Well when economy is facing tough situations, coming with price cut and low interest finance on Polo and Vento will perhaps make VW group overcome the sluggish demand in India.

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Latest: M&M Can Be Proclaimed As Maruti of SUV Segment: Goenka

SUV segment in India is soaking immense demand and is turning out to be the most significant sector in the entire domestic auto market. With so many anticipated launches in the SUV segment, Mahindra and Mahindra keenly outshines the same with its terrific portfolio from compact to huge and mighty sport utility cars.

 
And yesterday itself, the leading utility vehicle maker launched its all-new entry-level SUV Quanto in the market with mouth-watering competitive starting price tag of Rs. 5.82 lakh (ex-showroom Mumbai). The model is now ready to offer tough completion to rivals, especially the popular Renault Duster.

 
Mahindra & Mahindra has again proved out to the entire country that why it is proclaimed as the largest utility vehicle manufacturer with some marvelously strong products in its stable such as Bolero, Scorpio, Xylo, XUV500 and now the quintessential Quanto.

 
Soon to add another charming wing to its portfolio is the upcoming Rexton SUV, which is said to be a premium product in the segment from the home of its Korean brand partner Ssangyong. The Rexton is likely to compete with Toyota Fortuner, presently regarded as the segment ruler.

 
The President of Mahindra – Automotive Division, Pawan Goenka remarked, “All our products are significant in their own class and ways and each comes with its exclusivity and price structure. Now we are here in the SUV segment with healthy portfolio as compared to Maruti Suzuki’s product line in hatchbacks. I can proudly and safely exclaim that after the new Quanto, Mahindra can be regarded as the Maruti of the UV/SUV segment.”

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Latest: Time to Boost More Love for Cars As New Ones Hit Roads

The thrill has begun and the excitement of approaching festivity clearly indicates in the market as almost every key automobile manufacturer is vying to launch superb powerful products. The coming season has already started confronting some magnificent vehicles from top auto brands such as Renault, Hyundai, Mercedes and many more.

 
Hyundai has already unleashed its simply stunning corporate sedan Elantra at a starting price of Rs. 12 lakh and the cost is stretched upto Rs. 17.50 lakh. The product is gaining good response from the market and has an estimated waiting period of 10 weeks.

 
Even the luxury auto giant Mercedes-Benz opened its account before the festival arrives with its refreshing launch of B-Class sports tourer. The bookings are on but company will deliver the model in around October. Moreover as per industry experts, Mercedes will also bring its M-class SUV soon in the coming few months, however the exact time period is still not decided.

 
Now stands the proud creator of compact SUV Duster, Renault, which is currently creating buzz in the market with its refreshed beginning. The French auto giant is gathering enough accolades for its entire portfolio and the launch of new sedan Scala further added to the vows

 
Next is the much awaited compact SUV Quanto from Mahindra & Mahindra that revealed itself yesterday with a right price of Rs. 5.82 lakh and is all ready to becharm the market by offering tough contest to rivals in the same category.

 
And now in the coming months of festival season, the auto lovers will experience more in the automobile sector with many more new launches such as Nissan Evalia, Chevrolet Sail & New Spark, Maruti Alto 800, Tata Safari Storme etc. So just hold your breaths for now and get a new car for yourself to cruise in this Diwali season.

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Latest: Mahindra Quanto VS Maruti Ertiga - Segment rulers now head to head (Expert Review)

Mahindra Quanto’s launching has sparked a new rivalry with Maruti Ertiga as both the utility vehicles are placed in same price bracket. Quanto was, undoubtedly the most anticipated launch of the year and its sharp styling with aggressive pricing has further added fuel to the fire. Also, Mahindra Quanto price makes the competition even more intense.On the other hand, Maruti Ertiga has been selling like hot cakes with around 3 months of waiting period. Car like driving with compact styling enables Ertiga to rule the hearts of Indian car enthusiasts. Let’s compare Mahindra Quanto with Maruti Ertiga on the basis of following factors:-

 
Exteriors:-
 
Another alluring vehicle from Mahindra comes out in the name of Quanto. Eyed to carve out its own niche segment, Mahindra Quanto MPV (Multi Purpose Vehicle) boasts of similar outfit as seen in its big brother Mahindra Xylo. Based on the Ingenio platform, Quanto is a sub-4 meter vehicle and is identical from front with Xylo but in the rear, it gets new shortened tail lamps. Moreover, a rear mounted spare wheel gives a distinct identity to the Quanto.

 
Sophisticated styling of Maruti Ertiga makes its maneuvering perfect for the city traffic and narrow parking spaces. Peeled back clear headlamps, fabulous flare fenders, smart rear spoiler, newly designed extended tail lamps and overall sporty styling makes Maruti Suzuki Ertiga a pleasing vehicle to look at. Also, 15 inch alloy lifts the entire elegance of the compact machine.

 
Interiors:-
 

Despite its compact styling, Mahindra Quanto boasts of enough space of a traditional MPV. Marketed as a potential seven seater SUV, Mahindra Quanto has 2+3+2 arrangement with last row seats facing each other. Comfortable seats with state-of-art features, Quanto is loaded with ecstatic features like the Courtesy lamps, Roof console with glass holder, Sleek digital clock with topper pad, Entailing Digital Drive Assist System (DDAS) with topper pad and many more.

 

Borrowing lot of cues from its smaller cousin Swift, Maruti Ertiga is also a seven seater utility vehicle. Comfortable seats and employment of premium quality material with terrific fit and finish embraces a regal feeling inside the cabin. Low body roll and supportive suspension system ensures smoother ride in Ertiga. Boot space is awesome at 135 litres and with last row seats folded, it increases to 735 litres.

 
Engine, Specification & Performance:-
 
Powered by a 1.5 litre 3-cylinder twin turbo BS IV compliant diesel engine, Mahindra Quanto churns out top power of 100 bhp at 3750 rpm along with exceptional torque of 240 Nm at 1600- 2800 rpm. A five speed manual transmission is linked to the powerful diesel engine. With Mahindra Quanto being lighter than Xylo and boasting 3-cylinder engine, the compact MPVs 0-100 acceleration is in 17.8 seconds with a speed limit of 140-150 kmph.

 
In Maruti Ertiga a new K series engine, K14 VVT debuts which is capable of generating maximum power of 94 bhp at 6000 rpm along with ultimate torque of 13.2 kgm at 4000 rpm. Available with diesel option as well, Ertiga diesel is powered by 1.3L DDiS Super Turbo engine having the capability of churning out top power of 88 bhp at 4000 rpm and peak torque 20.4 kgm at 1750 rpm. The compact runner has a top speed of 170 kmph.

 
Features:-
 

Mahindra Quanto features list comprise of HVAC, Tilt adjustable steering, Floor console, Bluetooth connectivity, Rear window demister, Height-adjustable driver’s seat, Center armrest for driver and front passenger, Bottle holder, Adjustable headrest, Foldable snack tray, Driver under seat storage, Door trim fabric insert, Power windows, Power steering, AC with auto climate function, Central locking, Digital Drive Assist System, Courtesy lamp, Mobile charging points, Dash integrated CD, MP3 & radio.

 

In the feature list, Maruti Ertiga boasts of a Three-spoke, tilt adjustable electric power steering, Steering mounted audio controls, second row AC with control, Fully flat third row seats, In built music system, second row arm rest, Twin air-con, USB compatible audio unit, Tweeter for enhanced audio experience, Keyless entry, Central locking, Power windows with auto-down function, Multi-information Display (MID), Electrically adjustable ORVMs, foldable second row seat for easy entry in the third row and several others.

 
Mileage:-
 
The all new Mahindra Quanto is offering ARAI certified overall mileage of 17.21 kmpl whereas Maruti Ertiga delivers mileage of 16.02 kmpl with its petrol variant and 20.77 kmpl for its diesel one.

 
Price:-
 

Macho Mahindra Quanto is shelved in the price slot of Rs 5.82 lakh – Rs 7.36 lakh (Ex-showroom Thane) while Maruti Ertiga is up for grabs within a price bracket of Rs 5.89 lakh – Rs 8.45 lakh (Ex-showroom New Delhi).

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Performance R-Line Comes to the 2013 VW CC

The Volkswagen CC has been a standout product, giving buyers the high-end style of a European four-door coupe with a far more affordable price tag than competitors. For the 2013 model year, consumers will also be able to match high-end style with high-performance thanks to the addition of a new R-Line model.

 
Due to hit U.S. showrooms later this year, the 2013 VW CC R-Line package will only be available on the CC 2.0T. This package will add a range of goodies beyond the available Sport model’s gear including a restyled front fascia, side skirts, an R-Line badge on the front grille, bi-xenon headlights with LED running lights and adaptive front lighting, LED taillights, LED license-plate lighting, and unique 18-inch alloy wheels.

 
Unfortunately, don’t expect too many changes under the hood. The turbocharged four-cylinder engine in the CC R-Line will continue to offer 200 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque.

 
Inside, the CC R-Line boasts paddle shifters on models equipped with the DSG transmission, automatic climate control, 12-way power heated front seats, premium sound system with HD Radio and six-disc CD changer, Bluetooth and iPod connectivity, and V-Tex leatherette seating surfaces.

 
Pricing for this model has yet to be announced.
 

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Hyundai's Blue Link Gets All-New Mobile App

Hyundai has introduced a new mobile application that will further help its Blue Link infotainment system attract more subscribers. The app allows users to remotely access various Blue Link features and services through Google’s Android and Apple’s iOS operating systems. A BlackBerry version is also on the way.

 
Blue Link is an increasingly popular feature on new Hyundais as it combines safety, service and infotainment into a single innovative package. With the new mobile app, users can manager multiple Blue Link-equipped vehicles, search, save and send points of interest to vehicles for in-car navigation, and run other tasks link finding a parking meter or check vehicle diagnostics. The app also allows users to lock or unlock doors, activate the horn or lights, and on some model start the vehicle, all without the need to be in the proximity of the vehicle.

 
“This improved app demonstrates one of Agero’s core capabilities: developing customized user experience interfaces, from end to end, on behalf of our automotive OEM clients,” said Tom Metzger, senior vice president of Global Sales & Account Management at Agero, which produces the platform behind the Blue Link system. “In addition to increasing the Blue Link app’s capabilities, we made it more intuitive for users, while also extending the unique Hyundai brand experience to vehicle owners.”

 
Hyundai has also created a slew of new videos that can help users navigate the new app. The videos feature real Hyundai employees interacting the the Blue Link app, and they can be viewed on the automaker’s YouTube channel.

 
“We looked at how our customers use their Smartphones to enhance various aspects of their lives,” said Michael Deitz, senior group manager, Blue Link. “We wanted to design an app that allows them to enhance their Hyundai ownership experience through Blue Link.”

 
Find more details on the Hyundai Blue Link app posted below.
 

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Video: Honda Uni-Cub to Take on the Segway

Honda may be best known for creating affordable, reliable four-wheel transportation, but that hasn’t stopped the company from dabbling in just about everything. From robots to lawnmowers to aircraft, Honda builds it all.

 
The Japanese company’s latest experiment is the Uni-Cub, a personal mobility device that promises to do what the Segway can’t. Based on Honda’s U3-X concept which debuted back in 2009, the Uni-Cub the world’s first omni-directional driving wheel system. That means that the rider can control speed, move in any direction, turn and stop, all simply by shifting his or her body-weight.

 
Unlike the Segway, riders of the Uni-Cub will maintain eye-level height with other pedestrians. Thanks to that, its compact size, and its maneuverability, the device allows riders to easy roam inside buildings and among other people.

 
According to Honda, riders will also have the option of navigating the device using a touchscreen-based app. Unfortunately, the Uni-Cub isn’t quite ready for prime-time yet. A fleet of Uni-Cubs will be heading to Japan’s National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation this June for testing, but commercial sale of the device has yet to be announced.

 

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BMW Embraces Italian Design for New Concept

This year’s glamorous Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este is sponsored by BMW. So, naturally, the German automaker wanted to show-off an equally stunning and glamorous vehicle at the event, which is held on the shores of Lake Como in northern Italy.

 
To build such a vehicle, BMW teamed up with renowned Italian coachbuilder Zagato to turn the underpinnings of a Z4 roadster into a show-stopping concept. Despite its overwhelming beauty, this one-off concept vehicle is actually fully road registered in Germany, and has already undergone high-speed testing at BMW’s own test facility.

 
“The BMW Zagato Coupe embodies the unbridled fascination of cars and fuses the design DNA of the two companies into a fresh and distinctive whole,” BMW said in a statement. “This one-off model is the product of many hours of skilled hand-craftsmanship and breathes new life into the tradition of coachbuilding.”

 
Although BMW reached beyond its own design team to create this concept, it isn’t the first time such a partnership has been forged. Nearly sixty years ago BMW sought out Italian metalwork for its entry in the Mille Miglia. Today, the BMW Zagato Coupe embodies the renewed connection between BMW and the hands of Italian designers.

 
“Working with Zagato was a fantastic experience. It was extremely enriching for us to create something with people who share our understanding of good design and passion for cars,” explains Karim Habib, Head of Design BMW Automobiles. “And that is what makes the car so special – the open and constructive dialogue with Zagato, their experience, craftsmanship and incomparable sense for forms. All of these gifts are wrapped up in the BMW Zagato Coupe.”

 
The look of the BMW Zagato Coupé focuses purposefully on the road ahead, and accentuates the car’s driver-oriented character and high-speed potential. Its stance is low and wide to aid its sporty appearance, while the long hood hints at a potent powerplant within. The roof features a double bubble, which enhances aerodynamics and provides greater headroom for drivers wearing a helmet. This is also a design element that finds its way into nearly every Zagato-designed vehicle.

 
While the Zagato influence is evident, the BMW Zagato Coupe retains the classical BMW Roadster lines. Take a closer look at this stunning vehicle via the gallery below.

 
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Nissan e-NV200 Electric Van Enters Production

What do you get when you cross the Nissan Leaf with a minivan? Well, you get something like the e-NV200, an all-new electric van that Nissan will be putting into production.

 
While many automakers like Honda and Toyota are finding ways to optimize hybrid powertrains for larger vehicles, Nissan is taking the same technology that’s found within its Leaf EV to power its heftier models. The e-NV200 is closely based on the NV200 van, which is current on sale in many regions outside of the U.S. The van is also known as the “Taxi of Tomorrow” and will soon replace aging taxicabs in New York City.

 
“e-NV200 represents a genuine breakthrough in commercial vehicles and further underlines Nissan’s leadership within the electric vehicle segment,” said Andy Palmer, Nissan Executive Vice President. “The new model will offer all the spaciousness, versatility and practicality of a traditionally powered compact van, but with zero CO2 emission at the point of use and also provide an outstanding driving experience that is unique to EV’s.”

 
Production of the e-NV200 is set to start next year at the same plant in Barcelona, Spain that builds the the conventionally-powered NV200. It’s unclear whether we’ll see the electrified van on this side of the pond, but Nissan believes the new model will be an asset to families and businesses alike due to its versatility as well as its advanced powertrain. Nissan also promises that it will deliver a driving range similar to the Nissan Leaf on a single charge and that it will boast similar performance, together with best in class running and maintenance costs.

 
Andy Palmer added: “e-NV200 represents a bold and innovative addition to our commercial vehicle range, which is already one of the broadest of any manufacturer.

 
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Alfa Romeo, Mazda to Jointly Build New Roadsters

Japanese engineering and Italian design will come together in a new roadster being jointly developed by Mazda and Alfa Romeo. The two automakers will build a vehicle for both brands based on the next-generation MX-5 Miata.

 
This partnership should be good news for Alfa fans who have been waiting patiently for the Italian automaker to return to the U.S. with a successor to the to the classic Duetto and Spider. These models defined the Italian maker in the 1960s and 1970s, especially after the release of the 1967 movie “The Graduate.”

 
“This agreement clearly demonstrates our commitment to Alfa Romeo and the determination to grow it into a truly global brand,” said Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne. “By partnering with Mazda, we will be co-operating with the recognized leader in compact rear-drive vehicle architectures in order to deliver an exciting and stylish roadster in the Alfa Romeo tradition.”

 
For Mazda, the partnership is bound to strengthen the MX-5’s appeal to sports-car purists. While the Miata was inspired by vintage British and Italian roadsters, it proved to be far more reliable and have more styling power than competitors from America and Japan. If Mazda can create a vehicle that continues to be lightweight, nimble, and fun-to-drive, while infused with classic Italian design, it could have a winner on its hands.

 
“Establishing technology and product development alliances is one of Mazda’s corporate objectives and this announcement with Fiat is an important first step in that direction,” said Takashi Yamanouchi, Mazda’s Representative Director and Chairman of the Board, President and CEO. “It is especially exciting to be collaborating with such a prestigious marque as Alfa Romeo on a new roadster based on the next-generation MX-5, which is such an iconic vehicle for Mazda and recognized as the best-selling roadster of all time.”

 
Although the two roadsters will feature unique styling and propriety engines, both are slated to be produced in Hiroshima, Japan, at the same plant that has turned out MX-5s for decades.

 

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BMW Named World's Most Valuable Car Brand

Toyota has officially lost its title of the world’s most valuable car brand. According to the BrandZ Top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands study, published by market research company Millward Brown, that coveted distinction now belongs to BMW once again. Other German brands including Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen and Audi also dramatically improved their standing in the latest rankings.

 
BMW has been able to effectively communicate what sets it apart from other automakers, while backing up its message with a high-quality product. For those reasons, BMW took the top place in the rankings. Although Toyota is still among the world’s best brands, the tsunami and nuclear disasters that affected all Japanese automakers last year negatively affected the automaker’s brand-value ranking.

 
“Toyota is certainly seen as a good value, very reliable and very trustworthy, which are all tremendous qualities, especially for mid-range buyers,” said Peter Walshe, Millward Brown global brand director. “The problem with Toyota has to do with its financials, not brand, due to the disasters, which were clearly out of its control.”

 
German brands saw tremendous success in the latest rankings partly due to their success in Asia. Additionally, Korean automaker Hyundai has steadily risen to the top ten for the first time due to the improving quality and style of its products.

 
Aside from automotive brands, the 2012 Top 100 most valuable brands list is topped by Apple, IBM, and Google.
 

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Can the 2013 Nissan Altima Dethrone the Camry?

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For years, Nissan has trailed Toyota and Honda in sales and failed to achieve the same level of regard in overall consumer awareness. But more recently, Nissan has retooled its marketing, honed its engineering strengths, and pushed design boundaries to reestablished itself in the U.S.

 
The automaker is now preparing its most effective weapon yet to dethrone Toyota and its top-selling Camry. That weapon is the fifth-generation Altima, which just went into production in Tennessee.

 
Although the Altima has been a formidable contender in the midsize sedan segment, it hasn’t achieved the same level of success as the Camry or the Honda Accord. “[The] Altima has relied heavily on sales to fleets, rather than retail,” says Michelle Krebs, an analyst for Edmunds.com. “It’s been hard for companies like Nissan and Mazda to break through.”

 
Nissan is confident that the 2013 Altima will be a game-changer, and expects the car to outsell Toyota’s beloved Camry within a year. While at first glance that may sound like a ridiculous goal, it’s important to remember that even against incredible odds, Nissan is a truly incredible company. In 1999, the company was on the verge of bankruptcy, but has since retooled its manufacturing system and reorganized the company. Bill Krueger, vice chairman of Nissan operations in the Americas, promises that such improvements weren’t made just so that the company can settle for being No. 2.

 
Moreover, the Altima itself has gained momentum since it debuted back in 1992. In the first four months of 2012, Nissan sold 112,599 Altimas–almost 30-percent more than the same period last year. By comparison, Honda sold 96,517 Accords, Toyota sold 142,225 Camrys, Chevrolet sold 80,456 Malibus and Ford sold 85,559 Fusions during the same period.

 
“The Nissan Altima ranks among the country’s top-selling cars and best-known nameplates,” said Krueger. “This generation is not only the most innovative Altima ever, it also becomes the benchmark for quality in the midsize car segment. And there’s no better plant to rise to the challenge than our top-quality manufacturing operations in Smyrna.”

 
The all-new 2013 Nissan Altima will continue to offer many of the same qualities that made the outgoing model such a hit. With a base price of just $21,500, the 2013 model, however, will offer a slew of new technologies such as lane departure warning, blind-spot warning, NASA-inspired seats, and even a new infotainment system to excite consumers.

 
Amid high gas prices, Nissan believes consumers will appreciate the new Altima’s impressive fuel economy. The model equipped with a 2.5-liter four cylinder engine boasts 38 miles per gallon. By shedding weight compared to the 2012 model, improving the old model’s four-cylinder engine, and adding a new continuously variable transmission, the 2013 Nissan Altima features improved fuel economy as well as performance. If these qualities aren’t enough to lure a few would-be Camry buyers, nothing much will.

 

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Ford Figo Facelift Caught Without Camouflage

Here is another series of shots of the upcoming Ford Figo, this time spotted in Mumbai. The test vehicle was painted in a new bright yellow colour. The variant badge is partially visible and suggests it is a Titanium variant. So blue and yellow seem to be the two new colours this machine is going to get. It is evident from these pictures that nothing has been changed as far as the overall body of the Figo is considered. It seems to be the same sheet metal die of the previous version. Reason enough why Ford hasn’t camouflaged the body of the car.

 
It is just the front of the Ford Figo that has been heavily camouflaged, which even extends to the fog-lamps. So we can expect some changes in the design of the bumper, headlight profile, and the fog-lamps. At the rear, only the tail-light will get some changes. Another notable change are the new alloy wheels, which look very trendy and young. Looking at the front door handle there is no visible key-hole. Could the new Figo be getting a keyless entry ? Well, these questions will be answered only when the company launches Figo facelift this festive season.

 
The updated Ford Figo will carry the same mechanicals of the old model. The engines are going to be the same 1.2-litre petrol and 1.4-litre diesel, mated to a 5-speed automatic gearbox. Even the interiors will remain more or less the same with minor changes. The Figo facelift is Ford’s way of keeping the vehicle fresh as competition gets intense in the small car segment. Ford might also hike prices marginally (roughly Rs. 10,000/-).

 

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The new Figo (up) and the old Figo (below). Notice the new bumper and head lights.
 

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Maruti Suzuki Shamelessly Copies Ford

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Can you guess which are the above two cars, with the logo of both the cars masked. Chances are you will say that one is the Ford Figo in yellow, while the other is a Ford Figo in red. However the red car is the upcoming Alto 800, whose styling Maruti Suzuki has shamelessly copied from the Figo. The headlight, front bumper (sans fog lamps) and front grill are so similar to the Figo that for the lay man (read not an enthusiast), both cars would be the same. If you look keenly you will see the single washer nozzle on the Alto 800 but even then the front-end similarities are quite shocking.

 
But why does Maruti Suzuki have to indulge in copying, don’t they have a design team of their own? The Alto 800 is designed and developed by Maruti Suzuki’s Indian engineers, who don’t really spend lots of time in styling a vehicle. The Ertiga is another vehicle which had heavy contribution from Maruti Suzuki India and if you look at the concept shown at the 2010 Auto Expo, you will be thoroughly disappointed with the production model. Maruti Suzuki could have used their family styling on the Alto 800, which is similar to what is seen on the Swift, Ritz, Kizashi and Grand Vitara.

 
Recently Apple sued Samsung for a hefty $2 billion dollars for copying them. Apple won $1 billion as the judge found Samsung guilty. The world’s most valuable company alleged that their iPad and Samsung’s Galaxy tab look so similar that customers can’t really differentiate between them. Could Ford also do something similar, we seriously doubt as law suits over design and styling are not common in the automobile industry. However its really sad to see India’s largest and one of the oldest car makers to resort to copying design on their latest and most important project.

 

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Yamaha Ray - First Ride Impressions

Scooter market in India has spiced up when Italian manufacturer Piaggio launched Vespa. Following footprints Yamaha has also launched their first scooter, ‘Ray’, which was showcased earlier this year at the Auto Expo. Yamaha desperately wants to penetrate in to Honda’s market and is leaving no stone unturned for the same. Yamaha launched the Ray scooter earlier this month in Hyderabad with its new brand ambassador Deepika Padukone. Autocar India has got their hands on the scooter and we bring you some key points from their test ride.

 

This light weighted 104 kgs scooter has got a sporty look, with a youthful appearance.
 The front resembles the Honda Dio with large headlights and new age mudguards.
 The saddle height has been kept low, keeping in mind the needs of its target audience. Ray offers a comfortable driving posture for average to medium built male riders, but the taller one’s may feel cramped up.

 Instrument cluster is stylish with a big speedometer and fuel gauge.
 The Yamaha Ray offers a good gripping over the accelerator and ergonomic brake levers.
 The Yamaha Ray lacks in rear brake locking clamp, which is much needed in the scooters of this segment as an important safety feature.

 The Yamaha Ray completely stands apart when it comes to storage space. It has got a large underseat storage bay, with a hook for bag near the ignition switch and too add it has got ample small storage compartments for your utilities.

 The pillion’s foot rests are designed ergonomically, to ensure a comfortable ride along with a broad alloy grab bar at the rear.

 The rear design is as impressive as the front with clear lens turn indicators included in the tail light.
 The four-stroke air-cooled engine produces a top power of 7 BHP at 5000 RPM and a peak torque of 8 Nm at 5000 RPM which are pretty decent for 113cc engine. The engine is vibration free and smooth. It has adequate performance for commuting.

 Handling is good with light steering and good stability.
 The telescopic type suspension is used in the front and unit swing at the rear for a comfortable ride experience.
 The brakes are drum type of equal 130mm diameter in front and rear, offering adequate stopping power.
 Quality is very good and all the plastics feel built to last.
 The Yamaha Ray is a comfortable scooter with modern styling, high quality and a reliable engine.
 

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Source – Autocar India
 

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Honda Brio Drive To Discover 3 Experience

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Honda Brio Drive To Discover 3 – Click above for high resolution picture gallery
 
The Honda Brio is an extremely capable machine and despite a few setbacks in Thailand, the deliveries are now on in full swing. Honda is showcasing the Brio’s capabilities via the Honda Brio – Drive to Discover. A similar drive was earlier done with the Honda City from Jammu to Trivandrum.

 

This time we take the Honda Brio along the same route and take over the third leg of the drive from Jaipur. We have been assigned to drive till Ahmedabad via a night halt at Udaipur. There was one car for the journalists and one support car which was driven by Honda officials.

 

We were flagged off from Jaipur at 8.30 AM and had to cover a distance of 428 kms on the first day, our destination being Sheraton Palace, Udaipur. The simplest route was taking NH8, which forms a part of the golden quadrilateral. After negotiating city traffic, we were soon on the highway. Roads in Rajasthan are simply amazing, smooth tarmac for kilometers together with an occasional rough patch, mostly around the villages we pass on the highway. The weather was great too, slightly overcast with occasional showers. The Brio proved to be an extremely comfortable car. After covering a distance of 428 kms on the first day, there was hardly a hint of fatigue. Getting into Udaipur was a task as we lost GPS signal several times and had to go through narrow village roads with a few off road excursions. Despite all this, we made it to our destination at 5 PM.

We found this hilarious milestone on the way.
 

We set off for Ahmedabad on the second day. After a lazy breakfast, we were buckled up by 9.45 AM. This section of the route involved some hilly driving and the Honda Brio was up for a challenge and surprised us with its polished high speed manners and cornering ability. The car felt extremely safe and planted at triple digit speeds and we were having our share of fun pushing it through the corners. As we entered Gujarat, we were stopped for security check, the cops clearly had a liking for the Brio and inquired about its price and mileage. Apparently there is some rule in Gujarat which states that all cars in the state must have yellow tape on the headlights. Probing further, one cop told us that its to prevent the light from scattering. We almost lost our faith in the Wave theory of light but complied as per the state laws.

We were shown the chequered flag in just three and a half hours time at Hotel Le Meridian, Ahmedabad and covered 270 kms in good time.

The highlight of our drive was the fact that in spite of driving for 698 kms, there was no hint of fatigue. The Honda Brio is extremely comfortable and also caters to important safety features such as ABS and airbags. The petrol engine from the Jazz is reasonable peppy and offers decent performance with brilliant mileage figures. The Brio returned a mileage of 15.6 km/l on our drive. In the city, the steering is light and nimble and its easy to negotiate through thick traffic while it still feels stable on the highways at high speeds. Though it was predominantly highway running, we were keeping the engine on the boil most of the times. It was a memorable experience and yes, not only did the Brio love us back, we loved it too.

 

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2012 Mahindra Quanto Picture Gallery

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