Merc India CEO

Dr. Wilfried Aulbur, managing director and CEO of Mercedes-Benz India Ltd has recently resigned from his post. It is not clear what prompted Aulbur to quit but his sudden departure has meant that Daimler AG is yet to announce a replacement to head its Indian operations. However, Aulbur will stay with Mercedes-Benz India till a successor is identified to ensure a smooth transition.
"With the construction of the new factory and several additional projects close to approval, Aulbur has decided to accept a new challenge outside of the Daimler group within India," the company said in a statement. "During his tenure, Mercedes-Benz established its presence in the truck and the bus business and significantly expanded its research and sourcing operations in India," it added.
Aulbur took over as the head of Mercedes-Benz India on January 1, 2006 and has been responsible for shaking the company out of its complacency to effectively meet serious challenges from BMW and Audi. In Aulbur’s reign, Mercedes has achieved record sales figures with a flurry of new models and is presently the market leader in the premium car segment. However, according to company sources, the aggressive pricing strategy that was adopted to achieve market share, came at the expense of profitability.
Apart from his professional connection, Aulbur also has close personal ties to India, being married since 1997 to Rekha Srinivasan who comes from Chennai. Aulbur has had long stints in India which go back a decade when, between 2000 and 2002, Aulbur headed the Business Development and Strategy function at the Mercedes-Benz Research and Development Center India (Bangalore).
The biggest contribution of Aulbur is possible the ‘Indianness’ he brought to his company thanks to his background. His ability to connect with the local people made him popular within the company and the dealer fraternity.
It is not clear where Aulbur is headed but according to the grapevine he will be moving to a new assignment, completely out of the automobile sector and he plans to settle down in Mumbai.

Porsche 911

This is the Porsche 911 Carrera GTS, a swansong for the current 997 range as the most powerful and potentially best-handling regular production Carrera yet.
Unlike Porsche’s more extreme GT2, GT3 and Turbo 911s and their derivatives, the rear-wheel-drive GTS aims to preserve the Carrera’s day-to-day practicality while also boosting power, performance and dynamic ability.
Power from the Carrera S’s 3.8-litre direct-injection flat six engine is increased by 23bhp to 402bhp. Peak torque of 42.8kgm is now available at 4200rpm, 200rpm lower than in the Carrera S.
On offer will be a six-speed manual gearbox as standard. Porsche’s seven-speed PDK gearbox with steering wheel-mounted shifters will be available as an option. The manual GTS has a top speed of 306kph, 4kph higher than the Carrera S’s. Its 0-100kph time is cut by 0.1sec to 4.6sec, and is as low as 4.2sec in a GTS coupé with PDK and the Sport Chrono Package Plus in Sport Plus mode.
The biggest visual change to the GTS is that the rear is 44mm wider than the Carrera S to accommodate a wider track. Porsche claims this “further enhances the chassis dynamics”. A new sports exhaust system is also added, with two dual tailpipes painted black on the outside. Porsche says this exhaust set-up produces “a unique sound”.
The GTS rides on 19in RS Spyder high-gloss black alloy wheels with 235/35 ZR19 tyres at the front and 305/35 ZR19 at the rear. Other styling changes include a SportDesign front bumper with a black spoiler edge and black side skirts. The rear bumper is painted black between the tailpipes and Carrera GTS logos are added to the doors and engine cover.
The black-finished cabin features Alcantara on the centre sections of the front sports seats, SportDesign steering wheel, gearlever and handbrake.

Ford Endeavour

Ford has added a new variant to the Endeavour range. This time it’s the two-wheel drive version of the 3.0-litre automatic variant. Priced at Rs 17.89lakh, the Endeavour 4x2 AT is around Rs 1.15 lakh cheaper than the 4x4 variant.
The SUV will continue to be powered by a 3.0-litre DuraTorq TDCi engine churning out max power of 153.8bhp and a healthy 38.77kgm of torque. The SUV is matted to a 5-speed automatic gearbox coupled with an overdrive switch on the shift lever for overtaking maneuvers.
The Endeavour 4x2 sports similar styling on the outside, and the interior design now includes two-tone colour scheme, leather seats, 6-CD changer music system, a DVD player, dual air conditioner with vents for the second and third row seats, illuminated scuff plates, a titanium-finished instrument panel, sporty pedals and stylish body cladding.
On the safety front the SUV boast features like dual-stage front air bags for driver and passenger and anti-lock braking system coupled with electronic brake force distribution.
Speaking on the occasion, Michael Boneham, president and managing director, Ford India, said, "We are excited and delighted to introduce our latest Endeavour variant to India. We are confident that the Ford Endeavour 4x2 AT will be a popular and well received addition to our product line-up.''
The Ford Endeavour 3.0-litre 4x2 Automatic variant is available in five colour options; Diamond White, Moondust Silver, Sea Grey, Panther Black and Morello.

VW Polo 1.6L Petrol

Volkswagen India introduces a more powerful variant its Polo hatchback. The hot hatch gets the 1.6-litre petrol motor that was first launched in the Vento saloon. Available only in the Highline variant, the 1.6-L Polo is priced at Rs 6.16lakhs, ex-showroom Delhi.
The new variant will be powered by a four-cylinder 1598cc motor churning out a max output of 103.63bhp @ 5250rpm and 15.6kgm @ 3759rpm. The car will be matted to a 5-speed manual gearbox.
On the outside, the Polo 1.6 continues to sport body coloured bumpers, chrome strip in the front grille, body coloured door handles/mirrors, galvanized body with 6-years anti-corrosion warranty and 15-inch alloy wheels. On the inside, the hatch gets a CD MP3 player, split seats, rear wash/wipe, multi-function display, remote locking, fog lamps, ABS, driver and co-passenger airbags, chrome inserts on the gear shift knobs and door handles, and ‘livon’ upholstery.
Commenting on the occasion, Neeraj Garg, Member of Board and Director Volkswagen Passenger Cars,VW India said, “With the introduction of this variant the Polo becomes even more exciting for our customers as it becomes more powerful and fun to drive while continuing to maintain all the features available in the 1.2-L Polo variant.”

Audi A7 3.0 TDI

It’s Audi’s take on the Mercedes-Benz CLS or the BMW 5-Series GT. The A7 Sportback is an even more premium alternative to a premium saloon; it sits somewhere between an A6 and an A8 in size and price, and is to the A6 what the A5 Sportback is to the A4. So, as with the A5 Sportback, the A7 Sportback has a lifting hatch rather than a conventional four-door’s boot (the 5GT’s hatch does both things, the CLS relies on its coupé-like lines to mark it out).
Although in size the A7 sits between the A6 and A8, underneath it’s neither. Not yet, anyhow. It’s based on a new platform (mostly steel, part aluminium) that will also form the basis for the next-generation A6. At launch, three V6 engines will be offered. Two 3.0-litre diesels (with 201 or 242bhp) and a supercharged 3.0-litre petrol, the latter has quattro four-wheel drive as standard as does the more powerful diesel model – which was our test car.The A7’s interior style is also distinct but draws more – including many of its switches – from the luxury A8. 
A lot like you’d expect a new luxurious Audi to be. Over the past few years Audi has really nailed down interior design; so you know what you’ll get and you know it’ll feel very well constructed, from seemingly high-end materials.
No exception here, either. Ergonomically the A7 is sound and, as befits a car at this price, it can be had with myriad technology, comfort and communications systems – night-vision camera, radar cruise control, head-up display and the like. Particularly pleasing is a touch control pad (a bit like an iPod’s) and live connection to Google Maps, locked in to the navigation. All comes at a cost, of course. Another thing Audi has learnt from its premium rivals over recent years: how to allow its customers to spend.Do spend, though, and you’ll get an A7 that approaches the luxurious feel of an A8 – the gap is very close. A regular A8’s cabin isn’t that much more spacious, either. The A7 (a touch under five metres long) has ample space in the front, with two seats in the rear; legroom back there is good, headroom okay. Where it has an advantage over the A8, of course, is its boot – as well as the 535-litre capacity the rear seats split and fold.
So what's this newly platformed Audi like to drive? Slightly disappointingly, not much different from existing-platform Audis. On the one hand, that shows it’s got a true DNA. On the other, it’s not one that is intended to delight the enthusiast. The electrically assisted steering is light and devoid of feel, though positive and responsive enough.The ride (on our non S-line test model) was pretty good in most circumstances; air-sprung as all A7s can optionally be, it was sometimes a touch noisy on broken surfaces, but the body well insulated from movement and thump, except over expansion joints. Body control if left in ‘automatic’ is pretty decent, too; a bit loose in ‘comfort’, and inevitably too harsh in ‘dynamic’.
The drivetrain is a highlight of this model. Both 3.0-litre diesel engines are new; lighter than the ones they replace and quiet and smooth, too. On this quattro model it’s mated to a twin-clutch seven-speed gearbox, which makes shifts cleanly and smoothly. It’s also quick, with a claimed (and believable) 6.3sec 0-100kph time.
Handling is, however, still on the inert side, despite a general 60:40 rear bias to the power. That said, none of its rivals is desperately sparkling to drive, either; the most entertaining is probably still the Mercedes CLS, ripe for replacement and dated in other areas. Perhaps the optional limited-slip rear differential will help. We haven’t tried it on the A7, but it adds much to the RS5’s cornering adjustability.
Chances are those that try one will do so because they’re won over by the looks first; then they’re unlikely to be disappointed by the interior design. The drivetrains are very competitive and its pricing and equipment is on the money, too.
We’d like a little more engagement in the way the A7 Sportback drives, something to match the dynamism of its appearance, but that it’s not there is too unsurprising to be that much of a disappointment. What the A7 Sportback does, it does well. What it doesn’t do, I didn’t expect it to anyway.

Hyundai Santa Fe

Hyundai Santa Fe Test Drive and Review

Hyundai hasn’t fared too well with its Terrecan and Tuscon SUVs in India. Will it be third time lucky with the Santa Fe? The Santa Fe is an import like the CR-V, Captiva, Outlander and the X-Trail and hence there is consolation that the Santa Fe is on the same level playing field as some of its immediate competition.

The Santa Fe is not as heavily styled like Hyundai’s latest iX35 crossover but its fluid and smooth shape still looks quite contemporary. The rectangular headlamps are quite slim for an SUV and sweep upwards into the flanks. The grille, typical of Hyundais of this generation (the Sonata is one example), is built into the one-piece bumper. The bonnet too has been redesigned for 2010 and features two ridges that swoop from the base of the A-pillar to the grille.

The Santa Fe looks big from the side and hints at the space inside. The shoulder line and rear overhang emphasises its 4660mm length and you can see that the Santa Fe feels a class bigger than other soft-roaders. The rounded styling theme continues down the side and to the rear as well. The rear glass section also sports a very rounded look and the way the rear lights jut out of the body work is a nice stylistic detail.The Santa Fe is very easy on the eyes and overall, you definitely won’t be disappointed with its looks.

Unlike the exterior styling, the interiors disappoint. The dashboard shape, the layout and design of switches feel out of place in today’s day and age. The sail-like air-conditioning vents are familiar as is the gear lever. There’s a plasticky faux wood insert that cradles the entire dash and we do hope that it is an option. Elsewhere on the dash, the quality of materials didn’t live up to Hyundai’s new standards.

On the upside, there is no skimping on the equipment list. A six-CD in-dash music system with a blue-backlit screen, USB socket and Aux-in are standard. The steering wheel comes with audio and cruise controls. Blue back light is used on switches and the instrument console. The three chrome rings house the rev counter, speedometer and fuel and water gauges. A multi-functional digital display provides a variety of information like trip and distance to empty. Front, side and curtain airbags combined with active headrests, rollover sensor, ESP and ABS with EBD explain the Santa Fe’s four-star NCAP rating. Both front seats come with six-way power controls and even lumbar adjust for the driver.

The seats are quite comfortable for average-sized adults. The middle seat has a nice and tall seating position but needs more under-thigh support. The third row can only be accessed by flipping the smaller split of the middle seat. Here, passengers will find the seating position to be very knees up. Things could have been much better if the second row of seats could slide forward to liberate more knee room. Headroom too is at a premium. Which means anyone tall had better avoid the third row. With the seats flipped up, the boot space available reduces considerably from the normally generous 969 litres.

The engine is the Santa Fe’s biggest surprise and the punch delivered by the 2.2-litre CRDi motor is truly astounding. Hyundai offers this motor in three states of tune, from 150bhp all the way to 194bhp on the top-of-the-line R-engine. Incredibly, it’s the latter that Hyundai is bringing and what we experienced.

The Santa Fe claims to make its peak torque of 44.4kgm right from 1800rpm. Turbo lag can be felt below the 1800rpm mark but this 1987kg SUV isn’t lethargic either. It’s far from it. Hammer in a quick shift to second on the slightly notchy six-speed gearbox and you’ll hear the wheels break traction with a chirp. Overall, this engine is remarkably refined and possibly the Santa Fe’s strongest asset.

The Santa Fe’s steering doesn’t have the sharpness of the CR-V and the soft suspension set-up gets the near two-tonne SUV rolling around a fair bit. The MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link with anti-roll bars at the rear do a good job of ironing out bumps and the ride is quite pliant. For highway driving and on smooth surfaces, it promises to be very composed and planted at the speeds this powerful SUV is capable of.

Like the Tucson, the Santa Fe too uses an on-demand or part-time four-wheel-drive system. For more serious off-road use, you can lock the centre differential at the press of a button and the Santa Fe will cope with most off-road situations with ease. However, with no low-ratio, hardcore 4x4 terrain is best left to the big boys.The Santa Fe may not be the cheapest SUV in its category but after looking at everything it offers, it’s pretty decent value. This could be Hyundai’s SUV savior.

Toyota Fortuner

Toyota Kirloskar Motor has launched the ‘Fortuner Anniversary Edition’ to commemorate a year of this SUV that has over 10,000 customers. The Anniversary Edition comes with an enhanced sporty exterior that will be available only in Pearl White colour. Adding to the new look are a front bumper spoiler, rear roof spoiler and rear bumper spoiler, all in body colour, and a chrome plated muffler cutter.

The Fortuner Anniversary Edition will cost Rs 20.45 lakh, ex-showroom Delhi. TKM plans to roll out only 250 units of this special edition.

Earlier, TKM has decided not to accept new bookings for its Fortuner SUV till January 2011. During the month-long booking window from July 1, 2010, Toyota’s dealers received an estimated 3,004 bookings which works out to an average of 100 bookings a day.

Tata Aria

We’re really impressed by the Aria. The big, 4.7 metre long, five door crossover is a giant leap for Tata and for the first time, it’s not only because it looks good. After spending a week in the Aria we know it is a big improvement over the Tata’s we are used to. Here’s why.

The design is right and the proportions even more so. It looks very attractive, looks impressively upmarket and is unmistakably a Tata. We love the sharp detailing, the neat rear and how they’ve avoided the slab sided look for something that is so tall. And, for once, the wheel and tyre package doesn’t look undersized. The smart 17-inch wheels and the 235 section tyres give it a nice, purposeful stance.

The Aria is incredibly spacious on the inside too but then you would expect that from a big crossover. What you won’t expect is the smart, functional and modern looking dashboard. Fit and finish is a cut above the Safari and though not up there with the Innova, you won’t find much cause to complain. The seats are spacious and both front and middle row have ample head, leg and shoulder room. It’s just that the third-row passengers might complain about having less space than something like a Sumo Grande.
This top-end version we got is fully loaded. It’s got satellite navigation (which is quite confusing to use) and the usual bells and whistles like a CD changer, bluetooth connectivity, USB/aux-in port, a reverse camera with parking sensors, eight airbags, climate control, cruise control and for the first time in a Tata, an Electronic Stability Program and Traction Control system. As for functionality, Tata’s given us absolutely no reason to complain. They have, get this, seven ceiling mounted cubbyholes and though we struggled to fill them up, we’re sure large families won’t have a problem. The middle and third row seats are flexible and this really is a well thought out, nicely designed and attractive cabin. We didn’t like the thin rim steering wheel and the fact that your fingers easily foul with the steering mounted audio controls though.
The Aria uses the same 2.2-litre DiCOR engine as the Safari making an identical 140bhp. But, the big difference here is the engine is a lot more refined. It’s barely audible when you are cruising and impressively quiet and smooth when you’re revving it too. It performs well too with a nice long-legged gait and though there is a bit of lag, it’s easily dismissed with a downshift. The Aria doesn’t have the instant low rev responsiveness of the Innova but it does have a broader powerband.
The ride is impressive too. The Aria absorbs everything our roads throw easily. Potholes are dispatched with distant, well-damped thunks and manages to never feel lumpy or uncomfortable. If anything, it is that this absorbent ride leads to a bit of floatiness at higher speed. We also didn’t like the steering which, though well weighted, is on the vague side especially around the straight ahead position. For all other purposes the Aria handles as expected. There is a bit of body roll, but it’s not disconcertingly so and the on-demand all-wheel drive system makes it feel surprisingly surefooted. There’s also a 4x2 mode where the front axle is decoupled helping improve fuel-efficiency.
The Aria is a serious alternative to the hugely accomplished Toyota Innova. It may not have the Innova’s handling finess, it’s fit-and-finish or it’s tractability, but it’s got the better ride, has a more powerful engine, has a lot of features and looks much better. The Aria is priced at Rs 12.91lakh for the base, which goes up to Rs 15.5lakh for the fully-loaded variant. Although the Aria comes loaded with advanced features, some may feel, for being a Tata product, the crossover has been steeply priced.

Tata Aria Prices (ex-showroom Delhi)

Pleasure: Rs 12.91 lakh (Fabric upholstery)

Prestige: Rs 14.13 lakh (Fabric upholstery)

Prestige: Rs 14.5 lakh (Leather upholstery)
Pride: Rs 15.5 lakh (Leather upholstery)

Toyota Innova Prices (ex-showroom Delhi)

EV (8 Seater): Rs 8.25 lakh (Manual steering)

EV (7 Seater): Rs 8.29 lakh (Manual steering)

EV (8 Seater): Rs 8.75 lakh (PS)

EV (7 Seater): Rs 8.79 lakh (PS)

G (8 Seater): Rs 9.38 lakh (AC)

GX (7 Seater): Rs: 10.32 lakh

GX (8 Seater): Rs 10.37 lakh

VX (7 Seater): Rs 12.04 lakh

VX (8 Seater): Rs 12.08 lakh

BMW X1

BMW India will launch its X1 compact SUV by January 2011. The smallest SUV yet from the BMW stable will be powered by 1.8-litre petrol and 2.0-litre diesel engines.
In India, the SUV will be available as a rear-wheel drive which has helped the German car maker to price the X1 on par with its competitors. The X1 will be launched in two trim levels; Highline and Corporate Edition. Like the 320d CE, the X1 CE too will miss some features that will be available in the top of the line Highline variant.
Unlike the fully loaded X1 Highline, there will be no sunroof and CD changer - only a single CD player will be available. Also, the Corporate Edition will get simple black trim and fabric seats instead of wood garnishing. However, these are small concessions to make since the Corporate Edition will be considerably cheaper than the Highline variant.
The compact SUV is based on the 3-series saloon and will be shipped to India as a CKD unit and will be assembled at the company’s plant in Chennai where the 3 series is built. With a wheelbase of 2760mm and at 4454mm long, the X1 opens up a new luxury segment in the compact Sports Utility Vehicle class.
The BMW X1 1.8i Corporate Edition will be priced at Rs 22.99lakh, while the 2.0-litre diesel Highline variant will retail at Rs 29lakh (all prices ex-showroom).
The X1 will extend the current BMW Sports Activity Series model lineup, currently consisting of the BMW X3, BMW X5, and the BMW X6.
There is a reason for big bike buyers to rejoice as BMW Motorrad has finalised plans to come to India. The German manufacturer is presently evaluating the exact models to bring to our market, but we expect the tech-laden K 1300 GT and K 1300 S motorcycles to be the first launches. The bikes will be sold from exclusive BMW Motorrad showrooms coming up shortly in New Delhi and Mumbai.

New Mitsubishi Montero

Mitsubishi has launched an upgraded version of the Montero SUV. The BS IV compliant Montero now gets power improvements over the outgoing SUV.
The new Montero will continue to be powered by the 4-cyls in-line, 3200cc, turbo-diesel engine, but the power now goes up to 199.28bhp, a good 37bhp higher than the older SUV. Torque figures too have gone up by 5.9kgm and the upgraded motor now produces 45kgm of max torque at 2000rpm. The SUV has been matted to 5-speed automatic gearbox.
The 3.2-litre engine has been upgraded to meet with the BS IV norms with the inclusion of a new catalytic converter and swirl control bulb addition. In terms of styling upgrades, the new Montero has received minor cosmetic changes to the front and the rear bumpers.
The Montero is built on a very stiff monocoque chassis which has a built-in ladder frame. It uses the same sophisticated all-independent double wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension carried over from the outgoing Montero.
There is a slight jump in the prices of the new Montero BS IV and it now carries a price tag of Rs 38.95lakh, ex-showroom, Delhi.

New Car Coupe

Reacting to the R8’s small but encouraging market response, Audi India is all-set to launch the new RS5 Coupe to boost its premium high-performance image.

The Coupe will be available at an estimated price tag of Rs 1crore. Revealed at last year’s Geneva motor show, the RS5 Coupe gets a reworked version of the 4.2-litre V8 motor from the R8, with an increase in power output which is now 444bhp at 8250rpm, while developing a max torque of 43.96kgm at 4000rpm.

This gives the Coupe a 0-100kph time of 4.6sec with a limited top speed of 250kph. The power is sent to all four wheels via a seven-speed DSG unit. Audi has given the RS5 a new kind of centre differential which the company claims it can direct up to 85 per cent of the torque to the rear axle or 70 per cent to the front. In normal road conditions the power split is 40:60 front to rear.

Also a standard feature in the RS5 will be Audi’s drive select system which allows the driver to switch between three modes of operation – comfort, auto, and dynamic – that adjusts the steering weight, the shift points for the seven-speed S tronic, the sport differential, Dynamic Ride Control, the engine and the exhaust system.

The RS5 gets a newly-designed front splitter with bigger air intakes and will be offered with 19-inch wheels as standard and 20-inch rims as optional.

There’s also a retractable spoiler built into the tailgate which rises up at over 120kph.

Expect the Audi RS5 performance Coupe to hit the Indian market by the second-half of 2011.

Honda showcases small car Brio

These are the first pictures of Honda’s attractive new Brio, hot from the Bangkok Motor Show. Based on the 2CV design concept shown at the Auto Expo in Delhi, the Brio has a youthful and unique identity.
The big chrome strip in the grille and the Honda ‘H’ at the centre are familiar but, apart from that, this tightly skinned compact car has a look all its own. It looks ready for action, thanks to the upward sweeping lines and tipped-forward stance, and the wide, open chin looks a lot like an intake on a jet fighter! Pretty radical stuff. Bulging headlamp pods get black surrounds, the Indian version may get chrome inserts and this car has side skirts too, something that may only come as an option here in India. At the rear, the hatch gets low-set, clear tail-lamps which look unique and Honda has used a glass-only hatch at the rear. As on Maruti’s original 800, this is to save weight and cost but the smoked-out effect provided looks attractive.
While the 3.6-metre length and relatively compact dimensions mean this car is shorter than a Swift, Honda engineers have worked hard to extract maximum space from inside the cabin. Expect the Brio to offer clever space utilisation and practicality as seen on the Jazz.
Though Honda claims the Brio is still only a prototype, we believe it is very close to the production version. Especially the interiors which, like the Toyota Etios, do not conform to tradition. There is no conventional central console, with the music player in fact aligned horizontally with the instrument panel. Slightly retro dials, a generous smattering of circular vents and plenty of beige and chrome give the Honda a slightly upmarket feel on the inside and Honda has paid plenty of attention to storage space as well. There are plenty of cupholders and storage space at the bottom of the central console and in the door pockets is good too. The double DIN music system, like in the Honda City, has no CD player and only iPod support; there is a driver airbag as well. Sign of cost cutting, however, exist -- the front seats have got fixed head restraints and there is no climate control either.
Power will come from a 1.2-litre engine from the Jazz and a 1-litre unit might arrive at a later stage. This will be a three-cylinder version of the same motor but without the VTEC technology. To improve fuel efficiency, Honda has used Michelin Energy tyres and has added flaps at the lower end of the front bumper and rear tyres to further reduce the coefficient drag. There is no news of a diesel engine as yet, but Honda has hinted towards a hybrid version of the '2CV', following feasibility reports.
Honda knows that in order to achieve success in this segment, it will need to be cost competitive. Prices are expected to start at Rs 4.5 lakh, which will be good value. The Brio will arrive around September 2011, which means that it will be the last of the three hatchbacks launched next year, after the Toyota Etios hatchback and the new Maruti Swift. There’s a big fight coming up, so stay tuned.

Bugatti Veyron

There are all sorts of crazed statistics about the new  Bugatti Veyron Supersport with which you can fray the outer edges of your imagination. Quite apart from the fact that it boasts 198bhp beyond that of the regular 987bhp Veyron and can do 268mph (431.07kph), when the crankshaft of this car’s 8.0-litre W16 engine is rotating at precisely 6400rpm in seventh gear, it will quaff its way through a 100-litre tank of fuel in just under eight minutes. That makes it a mere four times thirstier than a 650-seater Airbus A380.

The W16 quad-turbo engine also develops its maximum torque figure the entire time between 3000 and 5000rpm, so there is no torque ‘peak’ as such. How much twisting power does it actually generate? 

There will be just 30 Veyron Supersports in total, each one handmade at Bugatti’s small factory in Molsheim, at the foothills near the woods of Alsace. So far Bugati has sold some 260 Veyrons since the original planned batch of 300 went on sale in 2005. Think of the Supersport therefore as the last and final version – the best version no less – of the world’s best car.

When you put your foot down and feel your internal organs squeezed to one side under the sheer g-force, there is also the unique, rather lovely sensation of sitting in your favourite armchair in your favourite lounge while doing so. And in the end it is the Veyron Supersport’s pure breadth of ability that separates it so completely from the rest of the automotive world – the fact that it can throw you at the horizon with sufficient force to make you feel physically uncomfortable, while at the same time providing you with the sights, sounds and smells of the most luxuriant car money can buy.

By fitting bigger turbos, bigger intercoolers and improving the way it breathes, Bugatti was able to generate the extra power and torque required without trying too hard at all. What needed rather more time, effort and re-engineering skill was making sure the powertrain remained cool enough when on full reheat – as did the retuning of the chassis, suspension, braking and steering systems. And, most crucially of all, the aerodynamic package as well.

Because the Supersport accelerates that much faster than the regular Veyron, the speed and angle at which it deploys its various wings had to be completely recalibrated – otherwise, says Bugatti, the car would have become ‘terminally unstable’ before it got anywhere near its top speed. Hence the reason the massive bi-plane wing now emerges from the redesigned rear bodywork at 180kmh and at a different speed/angle compared with the standard car, whose wing doesn’t appear until 220kmh.

You can genuinely feel the difference on the move, too. The Supersport very obviously has more straight-line performance than before; however fast you think it might feel when you put your foot to the floor and hold it there for a few seconds, double it, add another 100 per cent and you still won’t be anywhere near. Yet despite its ability to go into hyperspace harder and faster than the standard car, the Supersport’s extra high speed stability and, surprisingly, its superior ride comfort (afforded by a set of ultra-trick new Sachs dampers) are every bit as apparent as its extra go.

And that’s before you even mention its gearbox, which remains, in my humble opinion, the stand-out item in a car that hits quite a few peaks. The speed and smoothness with which the Supersport shifts gear, up or down its seven ratios, is absolutely and completely extraordinary. 

As swansongs go the Veyron Supersport will take some beating. Of the other 25 Supersports that Bugatti will make over the next two years, just six cars remain unsold. If you fancy one, in other words, best get on the phone to the UK’s most renowned Bugatti dealer, Jack Barclay of Berkley Square, London, PDQ.

Let’s hope, no, let us pray that there’s more to come from Planet Molsheim in the months and years to come.

Skoda Yeti

Skoda Auto India has officially launched its first compact SUV, the Yeti. The prices for the Ambiente variant is Rs 15.40lakh while the top-end variant Elegance is priced at Rs 16.62lakh, ex-showroom, Delhi.

The Yeti is built on the same platform as the Skoda Laura (code PQ35), and that for a start means it has a highly sophisticated all-independent suspension. Skoda has given this car a length of just 4.2 metres. As a result, squeezing into tight parking spaces is no sweat at all.

The Yeti is powered by a 2.0-litre common-rail diesel engine coupled with six-speed manual gearbox. This new-generation 140bhp motor is the same as the one that powers the Laura and that gives it a very impressive turn of foot.
For rear passenger space, Skoda has taken a leaf from tall boy hatchbacks and has used vertical space to very good effect. Using the adjustable seating, you can slide the rear seats back and fit one six-footer comfortably behind another. The front seats are as large and comfortable you’d expect of any Skoda, door-shut and build quality are tank-like and there are plenty of high-quality bits on the dash.

The top-of-the-line Elegance variant gets added goodies like Hill descent control system, front Park assist, front side airbags plus curtain air bags both at the front and rear. It also gets LCD TFT screen, dual zone climate control, steering wheel mounted audio control and six-CD changer - the Ambiente comes with single-CD changer.

If you are looking for a traditional SUV, where the price-to-size ratio is paramount, the Yeti is not for you. What this compact SUV has, however, is the appeal of an off-roader with the convenience of a car built in. It’s a car that’s comfortable off-road, and a 4x4 that’s even more comfortable on it

Mahindra Ssangyong

Mahindra & Mahindra, has finally closed the deal to buy ailing Korean automaker Ssangyong. Mahindra will pay Rs 2,105 crore ($463 million) to acquire a controlling stake.

A total of 70 percent stake will be acquired by Mahindra by buying new shares in the deal. The deal needs approval from Ssangyong Creditors. Mahindra also will buy 95.4 billion won of new bonds from Pyeongtaek, South Korea-based Ssangyong. Mahindra was selected as a preferred bidder in August this year.

Ssangyong will still continue to function as an independent entity. The company will retain the current management to help it understand the local market while taking few executives from M&M, who will work with the Korean management in key operational areas.

The final agreement for the deal has been filed at the Seoul Central District Court, which is overseeing Ssangyong’s restructuring. The main entities arranging the sale are Samjong KPMG Advisory Inc. and Macquarie Group Ltd.

According to Mahindra, the acquisition process will completed by March 2011.

Volvo XC60

Volvo has officially launched the all-new Volvo XC60. The SUV was first premiered at the 2010 Autocar Performance Show earlier this month. The XC60 will be the first vehicle in a new generation of the contemporary crossover segment and is touted to be one of the safest cars across all categories.
The XC60 will be powered by the latest generation D5 twin-turbo diesel engine, churning out 205bhp and 42.82kgm of torque which will be available from as low as 1500rpm to 3250rpm. The figures are impressive and the XC60 is pretty quick for a vehicle its size and weight, with the 0-60kph mark coming up in 4.48sec and breaching the 100kph mark in 9.57sec.
The SUV comes loaded with unique safety features like Blind Spot Information System, Lane Departure Warning, radar-based Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning with Auto Brakes (optional). In addition, it also features radar and camera-assisted Automatic Braking, Roll Stability Control, Hill Descent Control, Whiplash Protection System, Adaptive Brake Light and Ready Alert Brakes, making it one of the world’s safest cars.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, Paul de Voijs, Managing Director, Volvo Auto India, said, "Volvo XC60 is a perfect embodiment of our brand’s core attributes of safety, comfort, quality, Scandinavian design and innovation. Heart-stopping looks coupled with innovative technology and off-road capabilities, it is a perfect blend of style and practicality. We are confident that in India, Volvo XC60 will give us a competitive edge in its segment.”
The Volvo XC60 carries a price tag of Rs 39.5lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), making it an exciting crossover to look at.

Toyota Innova

Toyota plans to introduce the next-generation Innova sometime in 2012. However, the next Innova will be built on the same IMV platform which has been given an extended lifecycle and changes will not be very significant.
Customer feedback has indicated that owners are extremely satisfied with the existing Innova and want very little change. Toyota too is struggling to find ways to improve and hone its highly successful MPV. According to company sources, the next Innova will have some major styling tweaks and certain body panels will be reskinned. Engineers are working on ways to provide a more flexible seating configuration and to improve space in the third row.
Making the Innova longer has been ruled out because customer feedback has indicated that owners do not want an MPV with larger dimensions. There is talk of an automatic option in the next Innova as well as a marginally more powerful engine.

Tata Venture

Tata Motors today announced the launch of Tata Venture in Rajasthan. The Tata Venture is a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) with the footprint and maneuverability of a hatchback car, but the interior space of a utility vehicle.

The less than 4 metre long Tata Venture can comfortably accommodate eight passengers in three front facing rows and has ample luggage space. A glasshouse effect with plug-in windows for second row passengers contributes to the distinctive exterior design while the contemporary interiors sport a two-tone beige and black theme. Comfort and convenience of both driver and passengers have been adequately addressed with dual HVAC, power steering, power windows, reverse parking aid, keyless entry with engine immobiliser and rear wipers.

A semi monocoque construction provides the required rigidity while the robust shell has energy absorbing crumple zones built in. A collapsible steering and side impact beams protect occupants in an exigency. The Tata Venture meets crash safety norms applicable in the domestic market.

The Tata Venture is powered by a 1.4 Litre turbo diesel engine, delivering 71 PS power, with best in class fuel efficiency among diesel MPVs in the country. The mileage as certified by ARAI is 15.42 kmpl.

The Tata Venture will be available in 5, 7 and 8-seater options in 3 row front facing configuration and will be available in a range of 5 colors and 3 trim levels.

The Tata Venture comes with a warranty of 2 years or 75,000 kms (whichever is earlier). In Rajasthan, it will be available across 24 dealerships (13 passenger car dealerships and 11 commercial vehicle dealerships) in the first phase.

The Tata Venture is priced in the range of Rs. 4.05 lakhs and Rs. 5.07 lakhs (ex-showroom Jaipur).

BMW 520d

BMW has launched another model of the 5-series saloon in India, the 520d. This is the 5th engine variant to join the F10 5-series lineup for India. 

The 520d is powered by a 1995cc 4-cylinder diesel motor which churns out 184bhp@4,000rpm shared with the 3-series saloon. It will be equipped with 8 speed gearbox. 

There are some changes in standard equipment for the 520d such as 255/55 R17 tyres. The auto’ box won’t have paddle shift mechanism as in the other 5-series models. The in-dash 6-CD changer gets replaced with a single MP3 CD audio. But it does have USB, aux-in as well as Bluetooth interface standard. 

All other cosmetic features like the sunroof etc are similar to the higher-spec 525d saloon. 

One can easily denote the 520d as the “corporate edition” of the 5-series lineup as it is priced at Rs 36,90,000 (ex-showroom, Delhi) which makes it cheaper by a good Rs 3 lakh as compared to the next in line diesel 525d variant

BMW 3-series spy

BMW's next-generation 3-series has been scooped in winter testing for the first time.
The next 3-series will get a ground-up refresh later in the year. The underpinnings of the new ‘F30’ 3-series will take the model into new technology areas, with a future-proofed platform ready for hybrids and electric power.
The big news at launch is likely to be a 150bhp 1.5-litre, three-cylinder diesel, expected to produce lesser emissions and will be aided by further advances in BMW’s Efficient Dynamics tech.
BMW’s junior saloon will grow in size, getting close to the dimensions of the outgoing 5-series, courtesy of a longer, wider platform. As a result, the new 3-series will have a roomier cabin.
There are also plans of a new crossover 3-series GT after the saloon is launched.  Expect the new 3-series to be launched in India shortly after its global launch at Frankfurt in September.

Toyota Prius C concept

Toyota recently showcased the all new Prius C Concept at the Detroit motor show.  Like the original Prius, the Prius C Concept also runs via a hybrid powertrain. According to Toyota, this concept will provide the inspiration for a Yaris-sized Prius supemini that will be launch in North America in the first half of 2012. Toyota claims this will be the most efficient and best value hybrid car in any segment yet.

Toyota is keen to offer an even more efficient smaller hybrid at a lower price point and to that end will aim the production version of the C Concept at “young singles and couples who want an eco-sensitive, high-mileage, fun-to-drive Prius”. 

Nearer to the launch date, a toned-down version will be showcased which will closer to actual production. Toyota promises that it will be the most fuel-efficient hybrid (that doesn't need a plug) and will be the most "value-oriented hybrid”.
Toyota has sold about close to a 100 Prius cars in India since its launch last year. The Japanese giant has racked up almost one million Prius sales in 10 years in the US alone and sees the name as a prize asset having becoming almost a by-word for hybrids. Toyota also showed another model in its Prius lineup, the Prius V, which is an MPV based off the original Prius.

Audi A8L

 We’ve just been blown away by Audi’s brilliant new long wheelbase A8 in Jaipur. Their first generation car may not have made much of an impact and the second edition, though successful elsewhere, didn’t quite capture the imagination of the super rich in India. This car however is another kettle of fish.
Its solid and simple lines look stunning in the flesh and the extended wheelbase gives it that extra bit of elegance. A strong typically Audi shoulder line, strong definition between the wheels and those distinctive headlamps and grille mean this car is instantly recognizable as an Audi. Some say it looks a bit too much like an A4, but that’s only initially, and more so in pictures than in the flesh.
As expected, the technology on this car is considerable. Constructed around a lighter aluminum space frame, this car gets four wheel drive(Quattro), a direct injection petrol V8 and air suspension.
The V8 is a very special motor and its eight-speed gearbox helps it deliver a very strong continuous push when you floor the throttle. With 372bhp on tap and tremendous stability and braking power you can hit 200kph where 160kph in other cars would be a struggle, and the motor is silky smooth and refined and at the same time. The car shrinks around you as you drive it around corners and after 10 minutes behind the wheel it feels no larger than an A4, which is nowhere as long as this 5.27 metres long barge.
We’d driven this car earlier in Germany and commented on the hard edged ride, which would have made this car very unsuitable for our roads. However an increased ride height and higher profile tyres have taken the edge off the suspension of this car. There is still some stiffness evident, but ride quality now is far superior even at low speeds. And once you cross 60kph, the air suspension glides over everything silently. For very poor roads and steeply inclined driveways the new A8L, like the earlier car, even has a lift feature that increases the ride height even more.
The best bit arguably however is the cabin. Audi already the leader as far as interiors are concerned, have set a new benchmark for itself with this car. A top class design, an amazing blend of the finest raw materials and textures and a rear seat package that would do a first class seat proud, this car has it all. You can stretch your legs out if you fold the front passenger seat forward and place your feet on a footrest, there is a fridge at your elbow, the seats are cooled or heated, they massage you and you have your own DVD screen and MM-I controls. There’s even a small flip up table in the rear central console. The comfort seat however is optional and will push the on-road price of this car upwards of one crore.
However, with this incredibly charming car, Audi finally has the ammo to take on the BMW 7 Series, and even the Mercedes S Class head on. In addition to the 4.2 FSI, Audi will launch the 3.0-litre TDi as well. Going forward, the German giant will launch the 500bhp 6.0-litre W12 petrol variant during Diwali. This will be followed by the 4.2-litre V8 TDI variant – the same engine that made the A8 a popular choice in the foreign markets – by early 2012.

Ferrari's FF

Ferrari has unveiled its first-ever production four-wheel-drive model, a front-engined V12 four-seater GT that not only replaces the 612 two-plus-two coupe but also aims to attract a new kind of “all-roads, all-weathers” Ferrari customer.

The new car, dubbed FF for its four seats and four-wheel-drive, is designed by Pininfarina under the direction of Ferrari’s own chief designer, Flavio Manzoni. The first Ferrari of modern times to accommodate four full-sized adults and their luggage, it will be unveiled at next month’s Geneva show, and go on sale soon afterwards.

Ferrari hopes it will appeal in particular to buyers who usually use all-wheel-drive saloons or SUVs for winter driving and especially ski trips at this time of the year. The revolutionary Ferrari has an all-new, longer wheelbase chassis with a new-design, all-independent suspension that incorporates the latest-generation magnetically adjustable dampers and standard Brembo carbon ceramic disc brakes.

The four-wheel-drive system, claimed to be around 50 per cent lighter than comparable applications, preserves the desirable rear weight bias of recent V12 Ferraris. Called 4RM (for ‘Ruote Motrici’) the system is unique to Ferrari, using the car’s electronic systems seamlessly to direct torque to the front wheels when slippery conditions demand it, but mostly leaving the car in its desirable (and understeer-free) rear-wheel-drive state.

Though the FF is more versatile than traditional Ferraris, Maranello counters any suggestions that it is “soft” by giving it a newly developed 6.25-litre V12 with just under 10 per cent more swept volume and 22 per cent more power than the 612, and a seven-speed double-clutch gearbox to replace the previous six-speed manual.

The FF also gets the package of efficiency-building measures introduced in the California, including stop-start and smart charging to improve economy by about 10 per cent. The FF engine produces 650bhp at 8000rpm and 504lb ft of torque (up 16 per cent) at 5000rpm. Despite these higher outputs, CO2 output is dramatically slashed from 470 to 360g/km (23 per cent) while combined fuel consumption improves from a distinctly average 13.8mpg to 18.3mpg. The FF’s 0-62mph acceleration time of 3.7sec also undercuts the 612’s by 0.4 sec, while its 208mph top speed beats the 612 by about 10mph.

Ferrari claims an impressive kerb weight of 1795kg for the FF, undercutting the 612 by 50kg despite the presence of the new on-demand 4x4 system.

This and the fact that the FF is almost identical in length and width to the outgoing 612, (and only 30mm taller) suggests Ferrari has scored a considerable packaging coup, since the graceful lines allow full adult headroom in the rear, and the boot provides 450 litres of space with all passengers aboard, or 800 litres with the rear seats folded, figures which match many four-door models.

Hyundai Santros

 Hyundai Motor India has reached a milestone of exporting 5 lakh units of Santro’s to global markets.

The Santro was the first car to be launched by Hyundai in India and it was also Hyundai’s first model to be exported to other markets from India in 1999. According to Hyundai, the Santro is now exported to more than 80 countries across continents.

Till date, Hyundai Motor India has exported about 10 lakh cars to more than 115 countries across EU, Africa, Middle East, Latin America and Asia-Pacific. Out of all the cars manufactured in India by Hyundai, 40% are for export markets. The models being exported are Santro, i10, i20 and the Accent.

Tata Indica V2

Tata Motors will soon launch a powerful diesel version of its Indica hatch, called the Indica V2 Turbomax. The diesel hatch will also adhere to the stricter BSIV emission norms.
The new 1405cc CR4 diesel motor will develop a healthy 70bhp and 13.7kgm of max torque. As per the car manufacturer claims, the new Indica V2 Turbomax will be India’s most fuel efficient car with 46percent improvement on fuel efficiency over the older Indica V2.
The Indica V2 Turbomax will sport bigger 14inch wheels, fresh exterior and interior looks and come loaded with added features. At present, the Indica V2 diesel is powered by a 1396cc unit producing 52bhp and 8.5kgm of max torque. This gives the new Indica V2 Turbomax a power boost of 32percent and 65percent increase in torque as compared to the older V2.
Official prices of the Indica V2 Turbomax are yet to be announced, but be ready to pay a small premium over the Indica V2 prices. The new Indica V2 Turbomax will hit the showrooms by the first week of March 2011.

Mercedes G-Wagen

Mercedes Benz India launched the G-Wagen which is short for Geländewagen (cross country vehicle) at the Juhu Aerodrome in Mumbai. Widely called the G-Class, the version coming to India is the AMG tuned G55. The G55 has a 5.5-litre petrol V8 under the hood developing 507bhp at 6100rpm and 71.4kgm of torque at 2750rpm. The G55 can hit the 100kph mark in a mere 5.5 seconds which is remarkable for a SUV tipping the scales at 2.5 tonnes.
The G-Wagen’s design has largely remained unchanged through its 31 year life-span. It was conceptualized to serve the German military at first but in 1979 a civilian version was offered. The G55 AMG is very popular in the middle-east due to Arabs taking a liking to its off-road abilities.
Although the design hasn’t evolved much, the G55 is loaded with technology. It gets a permanent all-wheel drive with three locking differentials, a 5-speed automatic transmission, ESP and electronic traction control system and high performance 350mm front and 330mm rear ventilated disc brakes.
The G55 which will come as a CBU has been priced at Rs 1.1 crore (ex-showroom Mumbai).

Toyota Corolla Altis

 Toyota Kirloskar Motors is planning to launch a face-lifted Corolla Altis, and here is the proof. Caught on test in India at Malleshwaram, Bangalore, by reader Vikram V, Toyota seems to be conducting trials on the car before its launch.
Look closely under the tape and you can see the newer details of this car. The new tail-lights are barely hidden and the vertically aligned chin is undisguised. The face lifted car will have a wider grille and chin, and this gives the car a more aggressive and balanced look.
There are no mechanical changes expected on this mid-life face-lift of the car, so you can expect the very responsive 132 bhp 1.8-litre petrol motor and the efficient 87 bhp 1.4-litre common rail diesel. There are not many changes to the insides either; a steering wheel here, a feature there at max. However there is one exciting prospect on the cards.
Apart from the 1.8-litre petrol and the 1.4-litre diesel, Toyota has also been rumored to be looking at using their 120bhp 1.6-litre petrol engine. This model is already on sale in many markets around the region and in fact, is often the highest selling version of the car. The 1.6 Altis would also make it possible for Toyota to mount an oblique attack on the Honda City.

Mahindra Logan

 Mahindra&Mahindra have rationalized the prices of its slow selling saloon, the Logan. The company has slashed prices of the Logan in the range of Rs 27,000 to Rs 80,000 for its BS III variants, while the BS IV variants see a price cut in the range of Rs 24,000 to Rs 65,000. The new prices will be effective by April 26, 2010.
The announcement comes on the heels of the Indian company acquiring total ownership of the Mahindra Renault Pvt Ltd, a JV between Renault and Mahindra, of which the latter owned 51 percent stake prior to the buyout. The partnering companies had restructured their relationship a week ago, with Mahindra taking complete charge of the company. However, Renault will continue to support M&M and supply key components including engine and transmission for the Logan, through a License Agreement.
The top end diesel model, DLX will now cost Rs 5.65 lakh, ex-showroom Delhi as against the current price tag of Rs 6.45 lakh. While the fully-loaded petrol version will cost Rs 4.86 ex-showroom Delhi. 
Mahindra & Mahindra’s automotive division head, Rajesh Jejurikar, said the price cuts were the result of several factors including integration benefits in manufacturing and a favourable exchange rate. “The rationalisation of the Logan prices have been made so to provide a better value proposition for our customers. All the significant features of the Logan are now available in the market. Mahindra remains committed to our customers and to the success of the Logan,” he added.

Mahindra Xylo

 Mahindra & Mahindra has launched a new variant of the Xylo with a heart transplant. Christened as Xylo D2, the MPV gets a 2.5-litre mDI CRDe engine – a combination of M&M’s direct injection and common-rail diesel technology.
The engine complies to the BSIII norms and this ensures better fuel efficiency figures. The 2.5-litre mDI CRDe motor produces a max power of 95bhp which is 17bhp less to the existing Xylo. Torque too has gone down by 2kgm and the new engine churns out 22kgm of max torque at 1600-2600rpm.
Available only with black bumpers, there are no significant changes on the outside to differentiate it from the existing Xylo. Interiors remain the same and the D2 will have seating options for seven and eight passengers.
With just one variant on offer and retailing at Rs 7.28 lakh, on-road Mumbai, the D2 will be available in three colors - Gold Shimmer, Mist Silver and Fiery Black.

Ford Figo

 The Figo — an all-new nameplate, which in colloquial Italian means ‘cool’, is actually a re-skinned version of the previous-generation European Fiesta hatch (Code:B256) on which the Indian Fiesta saloon (Code: B376) is also based.
The Figo’s nose is particularly distinctive and bears a strong resemblance to other ‘Kinetic’ Fords with a slim upper grille and a large and inverted lower grille which impart a sense of energy and motion even in these photos. The lights, though not as radically elongated as other modern Fords, have that stretched back look and look quite striking. The side profile and glass area look a bit old-fashioned and betray traces of the previous Fiesta hatchback.
From the rear, the Figo’s roots are also obvious with the high-mounted vertical tail-lights and rear quarter-glass that characterised the Fiesta hatch and Fusion here. However, a different tailgate, completely new tail-light design and a smooth, chunky bumper update the looks dramatically. The Figo manages to look quite contemporary and the design and styling should work well in the segment of the market it plans to compete in.

Tata Indigo Manza

Motors has just launched the Indigo Manza. It is based on a stretched Indica Vista platform and has nothing to do with the old Indigo. It replaces the Indigo (the CS, the Marina and the XL will be available) and is Tata Motors rival to the Maruti Swift Dzire, the Ford Fiesta
and the Mahindra Renault Logan.
It looks a bit gawky. The biggest challenge when adding a boot to a hatchback is exactly that – it shouldn’t look added on. The long overhang and the square shape of the boot (which resembles that of a massive American saloon) make it look a bit awkward.
Livening up the rear are those huge triangular tail lights and a thick chrome bar that over across the number plate. Up front, the shape is very Indica Vista, except for the twin barrel headlamps and the generous appliqué of chrome on the grille.
Like the Indica Vista it is based on, the Manza uses a twist beam suspension at the rear (the old Indigo was independently sprung). The damping rates are different from the Vista’s suspension to accommodate for the extra weight of the boot and the better ride comfort levels that the saloon car owner demands.
It certainly feels like a proper saloon from the rear seat. Here, the Manza feels huge. Even with the front seats all the way back, a full-size adult can easily fit in there. There’s good headroom, there’s good legroom and the cabin feels so broad that you get a huge sense of space. There’s a new centre armrest and you can see that there’s been a lot of though gone into making this one of the most spacious seats in class. That said, the rear seat backrest is a bit too reclined.
Move up front and you’ll see that space is as good. There’s enough seat travel, the driver’s seat adjusts for height, the steering for rake and there’s even lumbar adjust on the front seats. It’s easy to find a good driving position but there is no place to rest your clutch foot (a problem with the Indica Vista too).
This time around, they really tried getting the interiors of the Manza upto scratch. You can see the improvements in the superb looking audio system, the brilliant dials and the air-con controls. So, it comes as a disappointment that they didn’t go all out with the improvements. Most of the rough edges have disappeared, but the few flimsy bits like the wiper/headlight stalks and the cheap power window switches and the panel gaps in the dashboard really don’t work especially because this a saloon and owners will expect better quality.
You do get a lot of equipment though – there’s the Bluetooth connectivity, USB/AUX-in ports, power mirrors, a CD/MP3 player, remote locking, a trip computer, ABS and two airbags in the top-of-the-line Aura+ version. Even the base Aqua variant comes with an audio system, air-conditioning, power steering, central locking and front power windows.
Like its sibling the Vista, the Manza uses Fiat engines – the 1.3-litre multi-jet and the 1.4-litre FIRE engine from the Linea. We drove the diesel.
The Manza’s engine specs look brilliant on paper -- 90bhp and 20.4kgm at a low 1750rpm seem promising till the first time you stomp on the throttle. That’s when you realize the full effect of the variable geometry turbo in this engine is felt only at a much later 2200rpm. Flat out, it doesn’t feel terribly quick, but there’s adequate power once you’ve worked around the turbo-lag. Keep it in its powerband, shift up before it crosses 4000rpm (there’s not much point forcing it to spin till its 5000rpm redline) and you’ll make adequate progress. Still can maintain cruising speeds easily and because the engine is refined, makes for a good highway car.
At low speeds, the ride is absorbent thanks to the softer suspension settings, but at higher speeds, it doesn’t have that ultimate ride/handling mix that a Fiat Linea has.
It’s a family car, so you shouldn’t expect too much by way of handling. Still, it surprises by having decent front-end grip and though there’s some body roll, there’s nothing overtly wrong with the way it handles.
It’s priced at Rs.4.8-6.7 lakh(ex-showroom, Delhi). At these prices, the Manza is fantastic value for money. It has everything you would want in your saloon – a refined diesel engine, class-leading space on the insides, luxury car equipment levels and good ride.

Toyota unveils Etios

Toyota’s small car concept, Etios has been showcased at the Auto Expo in Delhi and it is expected to be 90 percent true to the production version that will go on sale in end-2010.
Based on a completely new platform, the Etios will be offered with two engine options - 1.2-litre and 1.5-litre DOHC 16-valve petrol engines. Plans for diesel motor are on hold and the buyers will only have the choice of petrol engines initially.
On the outside, the Etios has sharp styling cues with a big smiling grille that has been high-mounted especially for India. The car has a strong shoulder line with an upward cut along the bottom of the door.
Interiors on the Etios are quite contemporary and the Etios sports a centrally mounted instrument panel with offset AC vents. Etios offers more space on the inside with roomy interiors as compared to its direct competition, the Swift.
Toyota is looking for a production volume of 70,000 units in the first year with a gradual increase in volumes from there on.
Toyota has showcased both the hatch and notchback body styles at the Expo but when the car is ready for production it will be the notchback that will be launched first, followed three months later by the hatch. Toyota wants a gradual ramp-up in production to ensure that there is no compromise on its quality and hence wants the hatch, which will sell in larger volumes, to come later.

Tata Nano

Tata Nano, the world’s cheapest car, that has won many accolades in India, is now winning hearts in the International markets as well. After bagging several awards on the Indian soil, the Nano has won the gold prize in the 2010 Edison Awards. It grabbed top honours in the best new product segment under the Transportation category. 
Recognised as America’s innovation award, the Edison Awards symbolises the persistence and excellence personified by Thomas Alva Edison. They are judged on the parameters like marketplace innovation and success, technological innovation, market structure innovation, societal impact and design innovation.

Nissan LEAF

Nissan showcased it’s brand new global, mass-market electric vehicle. A production ready car that will be in showrooms, this zero emission vehicle will be the first serious all electric powered car to be launched by a big car maker.
The Leaf will go on sale in Japan and the US early next year, and Nissan hope to make a business case of the project with the help of government subsidies for zero emission vehicles. There is apparently no dearth of interested countries, but India is not among them as of now.
The car uses a unique set of Nissan designed batteries that use lithium ion as well as manganese for the +ve electrode, reducing costs. Also, the batteries don’t take up much space as on other electric or hybrid cars as they are sandwiched under the floor of the car. The range quoted is a very impressive 160 kilometers, with batteries expected to last in good condition for four to five years – a lot.
Power from the electric motors is 80 kw (the equivalent of 107bhp) and performance is very impressive and strong. We got to drive an early mule of the car, basically a Nissan Tiida with the electric motor system, and came away very impressed. As on all electrics, the throttle responses are instant, but crucially power does not tail off after that. Nissan has worked hard at providing power at a sustained rate and this makes for a much nicer to drive electric car. With wide 205 tyres and all the weight of the batteries between the wheels, handling and grip are also like no electric car before it; one of Nissan’s objectives. The brakes however had that typical spongy feel found on all regenerative system. The car easily tops 135 kph and 0-100 would be sub 12 seconds.
With it’s tight fitting bonnet, large rear and distinctive and very techy lights, the Leaf looks the part too. Owners want to be identified as driving something different, so Nissan has complied.
The significant bit about this car is that it is likely to the first commercially successful electric. A proper car in every way but the limited range. One that may herald an all new class of car.

Honda small car Brio

These are the first pictures of Honda’s attractive new Brio, hot from the Bangkok Motor Show. Based on the 2CV design concept shown at the Auto Expo in Delhi, the Brio has a youthful and unique identity.
The big chrome strip in the grille and the Honda ‘H’ at the centre are familiar but, apart from that, this tightly skinned compact car has a look all its own. It looks ready for action, thanks to the upward sweeping lines and tipped-forward stance, and the wide, open chin looks a lot like an intake on a jet fighter! Pretty radical stuff. Bulging headlamp pods get black surrounds, the Indian version may get chrome inserts and this car has side skirts too, something that may only come as an option here in India. At the rear, the hatch gets low-set, clear tail-lamps which look unique and Honda has used a glass-only hatch at the rear. As on Maruti’s original 800, this is to save weight and cost but the smoked-out effect provided looks attractive.
While the 3.6-metre length and relatively compact dimensions mean this car is shorter than a Swift, Honda engineers have worked hard to extract maximum space from inside the cabin. Expect the Brio to offer clever space utilisation and practicality as seen on the Jazz.
Though Honda claims the Brio is still only a prototype, we believe it is very close to the production version. Especially the interiors which, like the Toyota Etios, do not conform to tradition. There is no conventional central console, with the music player in fact aligned horizontally with the instrument panel. Slightly retro dials, a generous smattering of circular vents and plenty of beige and chrome give the Honda a slightly upmarket feel on the inside and Honda has paid plenty of attention to storage space as well. There are plenty of cupholders and storage space at the bottom of the central console and in the door pockets is good too. The double DIN music system, like in the Honda City, has no CD player and only iPod support; there is a driver airbag as well. Sign of cost cutting, however, exist -- the front seats have got fixed head restraints and there is no climate control either.
Power will come from a 1.2-litre engine from the Jazz and a 1-litre unit might arrive at a later stage. This will be a three-cylinder version of the same motor but without the VTEC technology. To improve fuel efficiency, Honda has used Michelin Energy tyres and has added flaps at the lower end of the front bumper and rear tyres to further reduce the coefficient drag. There is no news of a diesel engine as yet, but Honda has hinted towards a hybrid version of the '2CV', following feasibility reports.
Honda knows that in order to achieve success in this segment, it will need to be cost competitive. Prices are expected to start at Rs 4.5 lakh, which will be good value. The Brio will arrive around September 2011, which means that it will be the last of the three hatchbacks launched next year, after the Toyota Etios hatchback and the new Maruti Swift. There’s a big fight coming up, so stay tuned.