Friday, September 26, 2014

'IAB Report – New Mahindra Scorpio reaches Delhi at INR 8.4 lakhs [Mega Gallery]' plus 14 more

'IAB Report – New Mahindra Scorpio reaches Delhi at INR 8.4 lakhs [Mega Gallery]' plus 14 more


IAB Report – New Mahindra Scorpio reaches Delhi at INR 8.4 lakhs [Mega Gallery]

Posted: 26 Sep 2014 05:23 AM PDT

The new Mahindra Scorpio which was launched in Mumbai yesterday has reached the national capital for a starting price of INR 8.4 lakhs (ex-showroom Delhi).

New Mahindra Scorpio front quaretrs Delhi launch

To recap, the new Scorpio is based on a new hydroformed ladder frame chassis which is claimed to have better longitudinal stiffness and crash worthiness. Mahindra engineers have also worked on numerous aspects like the fully sealed and fused wheel end-bearings to reduce the weight.

In terms of design, the Safari Storme rival ditches its aging character for a more aggressive and younger appeal. The interior is where the progression to the next generation is felt the most.

New Mahindra Scorpio cabin Delhi launch

The highly successful product has retained its engine options. The entry level S2 variant is powered by a 2.5-litre m2DiCR diesel engine putting out 75 bhp and 200 Nm of torque. The rest of the lineup gets the 2.2-litre mHawk diesel motor which develops 120 bhp and 280 Nm of torque. The 5-speed manual gearbox is new.

New Mahindra Scorpio prices (ex-showroom New Delhi)

  • Mahindra Scorpio S2 – INR 8.4 lakhs
  • Mahindra Scorpio S4 – INR 8.99 lakhs
  • Mahindra Scorpio S6 – INR 10.15 lakhs
  • Mahindra Scorpio S8 – INR 11.32 lakhs
  • Mahindra Scorpio S10 – INR 11.95 lakhs

Check out how the Mahindra Scorpio stacks up against its rivals in terms of specs

Competitors: Tata Safari Storme, Renault Duster, Nissan Terrano

New Mahindra Scorpio – Image Gallery

New Mahindra Scorpio AC vent Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio alloy wheel Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio Auto AC Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio badeg of the car Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio badge Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio boot Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio cabin Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio cargo area Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio chrome AC Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio cluster Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio control stalks Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio cruise controls Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio cupholder Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio dash Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio door handle Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio door handles Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio door insert Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio door panel Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio driver door Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio engine bay Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio engine Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio engine image Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio foglight Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio front Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio front fascia Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio front quaretrs Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio front quarterDelhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio front seat Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio front three quarter Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio front three quarters Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio gear Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio glovebox Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio grille Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio handbrake Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio headlamp Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio headlight Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio hood scoop Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio ignition Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio interior Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio interior lights Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio last window Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio LED eyebrow Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio LED taillight Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio LED taillights Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio light Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio mHawk Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio micro hybrid Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio music system Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio power socket Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio power window Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio power windows Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio profile Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio rear AC vent Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio rear door Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio rear legroom Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio rear quarter angle Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio rear quarter Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio rear seat back Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio roof rail Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio S10 Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio seat headrest Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio seat height Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio seat image Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio side angle Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio side Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio side indicator Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio side seat Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio side seats Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio side sill Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio stalks Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio steering buttons Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio steering Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio steering whel Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio taillight cluster Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio taillight Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio wheel Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio window controls Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio wing mirror Delhi launch New Mahindra Scorpio wiper Delhi launch

Report – Skoda India mulling Rapid-based hatchback to target Swift, i20

Posted: 26 Sep 2014 05:17 AM PDT

The hatchback could use the Rapid’s underpinning. 

Skoda Auto India discontinued its hatchback offering, the Fabia, last year. The Fabia was discontinued in India owing to huge losses that incurred on selling the car. Since then, the company has focused on selling cars like the Rapid and higher to it, and will continue with this strategy at least until 2017, reports Autocar India.

Skoda Fabia Monte Carlo front three quarter - Geneva Live

The old Fabia was a loss making product for the company in India.

The publication was told by the company’s managing director, Mr. Sudhir Rao, that a Fabia-type car with a “mix of various platforms and components” could be developed provided cars like the Rapid facelift succeeded in the market.

The publication states that engineers could use the current Rapid’s platform and mechanicals to spawn a new hatchback, having a new name. However, it is unlikely for the new car to come before 2017.

Speaking to Indian Autos Blog at the refreshed Yeti’s launch this month, Mr. Pawel Szuflak, Director for Sales and Marketing for Skoda Auto India Private Limited, said that the new generation Fabia which is announced for the European market will not see an Indian launch.

2015 Skoda Fabia

The new Fabia, premiering in Europe next week, is ruled out for India.

Reports say that the new Fabia would cost a lot more than the older model, which would make it very difficult for the company to price it competitively in India.

Also read: New Skoda Rapid vs new VW Vento vs Honda City vs Maruti Ciaz vs Hyundai Verna spec sheet comparo

Competitors: Maruti Swift, Hyundai Elite i20, VW Polo, Honda Jazz, Tata Bolt

Expected Price: INR 4.5-7 lakhs, ex-Showroom

Launch date: 2017

Skoda Rapid Facelift with Elegance Black Package – Image Gallery (Unrelated)

New Skoda Rapid alloy wheel studio shot New Skoda Rapid dashboard studio shot New Skoda Rapid front fascia studio shot New Skoda Rapid headlamp and foglamp studio shot New Skoda Rapid side studio shot Skoda Rapid facelift boot Skoda Rapid facelift centre console Skoda Rapid facelift dashboard Skoda Rapid facelift door pad Skoda Rapid facelift Elegance Black Package foglamp Skoda Rapid facelift Elegance Black Package front fascia Skoda Rapid facelift Elegance Black Package front Skoda Rapid facelift Elegance Black Package grille Skoda Rapid facelift Elegance Black Package headlamp Skoda Rapid facelift Elegance Black Package ORVM Skoda Rapid facelift Elegance Black Package side Skoda Rapid facelift Elegance Black Package wheel Skoda Rapid facelift Elegance Black Package Skoda Rapid facelift engine bay Skoda Rapid facelift front Skoda Rapid facelift interior Skoda Rapid facelift rear seats

[Source - Autocar India]

Rendering – Proton Iriz sedan not far off from being the Saga 3

Posted: 26 Sep 2014 04:41 AM PDT

The third gen Proton Saga sedan is expected to be closely related to the Iriz.

The Proton Iriz hatchback was launched in Malaysia yesterday amidst much fanfare and the focus has now shifted towards the next product, the Proton Saga 3 sedan.

Proton Iriz Sedan or Saga 3 rendering front three quarter

The Proton Iriz-based sedan seems to be a logical replacement for the Saga.

Given that the Iriz is not just a global product but a new global platform for the Malaysian automaker, it is perfectly logical for the new Saga to derive its underpinnings from the Iriz. It still remains to be seen whether the upcoming sedan will borrow its design cues from the hatchback but here are the speculative renderings by Funtastiko’s reader Mr. Mohd Firdaus Yawahil that support such a thought.

Proton Iriz Sedan or Saga 3 rendering rear three quarter

The Iriz hatchback’s design is sedan-ready.

As in the case of most of the instant sedans, the Iriz-based model could be possessing a revised front bumper and carry over the design until the B-pillar. The swooping roofline of the hatchback would make it easier for the designers to integrate a boot without disturbing the design harmony. The rear fascia’s design would be a sharper interpretation of the Proton Saga’s current design philosophy.

Proton Iriz Sport rendering

The Iriz with an aggressive body kits would improve the sporting quotient of the small car.

Earlier, Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, executive chairman, Proton Holdings Berhad, told media that the development of the Saga 3 is being fast-tracked and that it could be out as early as 2015, moving upmarket.

Check out the another rendering of the Proton Saga 3

Another Funtastiko reader Mr. Mohd Najmi Rosdi has come up with a rendering of a sportier version of the Iriz hatchback. The renderings portray the Hyundai Grand i10 rival with an aggressive front bumper, sporty body kit and larger alloy wheels.

Competitors for Saga 3: VW Polo Sedan (Vento), Honda City, Mazda2 sedan

Proton Iriz – Image Gallery

Proton Iriz press image Proton Iriz press image wipers Proton Iriz press image USB charger Proton Iriz press image touchscreen Proton Iriz press image steering wheel Proton Iriz press image seats Proton Iriz press image reverse camera Proton Iriz press image rear three quarter Proton Iriz press image rear three quarter grey Proton Iriz press image rear seat Proton Iriz press image passenger seats Proton Iriz press image leather seats Proton Iriz press image interior Proton Iriz press image instrument console Proton Iriz press image grey Proton Iriz press image grey rear Proton Iriz press image grey front three quarter Proton Iriz press image green side Proton Iriz press image green rear Proton Iriz press image front seat Proton Iriz press image front right three quarter green Proton Iriz press image engine start stop button Proton Iriz press image engine bay Proton Iriz press image driving position Proton Iriz press image dashboard Proton Iriz press image color palette Proton Iriz press image bottle holders Proton Iriz press image boot with luggage Proton Iriz press image boot with folded rear seats Proton Iriz press image 6 airbags

[Renderings from Funtasticko]

Report – Jointly developed Isuzu-GM pickup truck to be made in India

Posted: 26 Sep 2014 04:28 AM PDT

Official announcement due on Friday, according to a report.

According to Nikkei, Isuzu Motors and General Motors will jointly develop a pickup truck for emerging markets. The new pickup will be manufactured in Southeast Asia and India, and sales will start in Thailand and Indonesia as early as 2015. Nikkei did not reveal the source of this information, but said that a formal announcement will be made by the companies on Friday.

Isuzu D-Max Spacecab Arched Deck Review side

The new pickup will be meant for emerging markets. Image of the D-Max Spacecab used for illustration only.

Isuzu’s upcoming plant at Sri City, Andhra Pradesh, would have to serve to build the new pickup truck. The new plant, which takes on an investment of INR 3,000 crore, will roll out pickups with 70 percent localization from the start of operations. In a few years after the plant’s start of operation, localization levels will reach 100 percent. The plant has an area of 4,30,000 square meters.

Isuzu D-Max Spacecab Arched Deck Review steering

The India-made Isuzus will have a localization of at least 70 percent at the start of operations.

Also read: Review – Isuzu D-Max and D-Max Spacecab

Isuzu in India is also planning on a new MPV to take on the likes of the Toyota Innova and Honda Mobilio. The vehicle, codenamed RU30, could launch in the festive period of 2016 with annual planned production of 40,000 units per annum. Isuzu’s current lineup in India has the D-Max pickup (Single cab and Spacecab) and MU-7 SUV.

Isuzu D-Max – Image Gallery (Unrelated)

Isuzu D-Max Spacecab Arched Deck Review front Isuzu D-Max Spacecab Arched Deck Review moving Isuzu D-Max Spacecab Arched Deck Review Isuzu D-Max Spacecab Arched Deck Review with Flat Deck Isuzu D-Max Spacecab Arched Deck Review side Isuzu D-Max Spacecab Arched Deck Review rear three quarter Isuzu D-Max Spacecab Arched Deck Review rear Isuzu D-Max Spacecab Arched Deck Review taillight Isuzu D-Max Spacecab Arched Deck Review steering Isuzu D-Max Spacecab Arched Deck Review speedo Isuzu D-Max Spacecab Arched Deck Review seat Isuzu D-Max Spacecab Arched Deck Review loading area Isuzu D-Max Spacecab Arched Deck Review logo Isuzu D-Max Spacecab Arched Deck Review interior

Report – Skoda Rapid facelift for India to get “simpler” design

Posted: 26 Sep 2014 04:17 AM PDT

Mahindra Engineering is responsible for the engineering aspects of the design.

It’s no secret that Skoda Auto India are working on a facelift for their bread-and-butter model, the Rapid. This would be the first major facelift for the sedan, as this week’s launch of the updated Rapid mainly focused on the mechanical carriage, by introducing the 1.5-liter diesel engine and the 7-speed DSG transmission.

Skoda Rapid facelift Elegance Black Package grille

Apart from a black package, the Rapid did not get cosmetic changes during this week’s relaunch.

The company’s managing director, Mr. Sudhir Rao, told the Economic Times newspaper that the Rapid facelift will get a “simpler” design, and one that works in India as well. It would however match Skoda’s specifications (elements such as the grille for example). The engineering aspects of the design are being carried out by Mahindra Engineering Services, the official confirmed.

Skoda Rapid facelift dashboard

The Rapid facelift would get interior updates as well.

Earlier this month, Skoda Auto India’s director for sales and marketing, Mr. Pawel Szuflak, hinted that the Rapid facelift’s design could have key Indian inputs. The Rapid facelift however is unlikely to see any updates to its powertrain. The sedan would continue with the 1.6-liter MPI petrol and 1.5-liter TDI, though a 1.2-liter TSI can be introduced as an additional engine option.

Also read: Features and specifications of the New Skoda Rapid

Competitors: VW Vento, Honda City, Maruti Ciaz, Hyundai Verna, Fiat Linea

Expected Price: INR 7.5 – 11 lakhs, ex-Showroom

Launch date: 2015

Skoda Rapid Facelift with Elegance Black Package – Image Gallery (Unrelated)

Skoda Rapid facelift Elegance Black Package grille Skoda Rapid facelift Elegance Black Package front Skoda Rapid facelift Elegance Black Package front fascia Skoda Rapid facelift Elegance Black Package side Skoda Rapid facelift boot Skoda Rapid facelift centre console Skoda Rapid facelift dashboard Skoda Rapid facelift door pad Skoda Rapid facelift Elegance Black Package foglamp Skoda Rapid facelift Elegance Black Package headlamp Skoda Rapid facelift Elegance Black Package ORVM Skoda Rapid facelift Elegance Black Package wheel Skoda Rapid facelift Elegance Black Package Skoda Rapid facelift engine bay Skoda Rapid facelift front Skoda Rapid facelift interior Skoda Rapid facelift rear seats

[Source - Economic Times]

In Images – Suzuki Alivio (Maruti Ciaz) for China

Posted: 26 Sep 2014 04:02 AM PDT

Will be powered by a 1.6-liter VVT engine matched to a 6-speed AT.

Ahead of its impending Chinese launch, further images and details of the Suzuki Alivio (Maruti Ciaz) are now available.

As reported earlier the exterior of the Alivio in comparison to the Ciaz gets more content in the form of a full chrome grille, chrome highlights for the foglight enclosures and rear reflectors and larger alloy wheels. The sedan can be ordered with a sunroof in China as well.

Suzuki Alivio in China grille

The Alivio gets a full chrome grille and bumper chrome elements for its home market in China.

Inside, the overall dashboard and design of the items used are largely similar to the Ciaz’s. However Chinese model gets a different 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system. In the features department, the top-end variant of the Alivio would get TCS, cruise control and heated wing mirrors in addition to the features seen on the Indian model.

Powering the Alivio is a naturally-aspirated 1.6-liter petrol engine with Suzuki’s VVT technology. The power and torque outputs of this engine remain undisclosed, but Chinese media reports say that it will come paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission. This is superior to the 1.4-liter engine and four-speed AT offered on the top-end Ciaz.

Suzuki Alivio in China interior

The sedan receives a different touchscreen display and cruise control switches on the steering wheel.

Also read: Maruti Ciaz variant-wise features revealed

The Alivio, according to reports, will accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 10.7 seconds and achieve an average fuel consumption of 18.86 km/l.

Competitors: Honda City, Hyundai Verna, Skoda Rapid, Ford Fiesta, Nissan Sunny

Expected Price (In India): INR 7.5-10.5 lakhs, ex-Showroom

Launch Date: In October 2014

Production Suzuki Alivio – Image Gallery

Suzuki Alivio in China front Suzuki Alivio in China headlight Suzuki Alivio in China grille Suzuki Alivio in China rear Suzuki Alivio in China interior Suzuki Alivio in China music system Suzuki Alivio in China engine Suzuki Alivio in China seats

Suzuki Alivio – Official Image Gallery

Suzuki Alivio press shots Suzuki Alivio press shots side Suzuki Alivio press shots profile Suzuki Alivio press shots front

[Images from Auto Home]

Malaysia – Proton Iriz to get a Euro 5 engine for overseas markets

Posted: 26 Sep 2014 02:48 AM PDT

The existing 1.3-litre and 1.6-litre VVT petrol engine meet Euro 4 emission norms.

The newly launched Proton Iriz will be looking to go places after establishing itself at home.

Speaking at the launch of Malaysia’s first global car, Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, Executive Chairman, Proton Holdings Berhad, has told Paultan that the company is looking to source a new engine for the international markets.

[Head to Youtube if you can't watch the video]

Dr. Mohamad stated that the current VVT petrol engines of the Iriz comply with the Euro 4 norms. Since most of the international markets have implemented stricter Euro 5 or 6 norms, a cleaner engine is required to tap those markets. The ex-prime minister of Malaysia hinted that the overseas-spec engine could be sourced from a foreign manufacturer since designing a new engine from the scratch could take as long as 5 years.

Proton Iriz press image engine bay

The international spec engine is likely to be borrowed from a foreign automaker.

It’s to be noted that Proton currently has ties with Japan’s Honda and China’s Geely. There could be a new collaboration to source a cleaner powertrain for the global Iriz.

Also read: Proton Iriz driven in public by Dr. Mahathir Mohamad

The hatchback which is a part of the automaker’s ambitious global project has been developed to take on well established rivals from dominant automakers like Volkswagen, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, etc.

Competitors: VW Up!, Honda Brio, Hyundai i10, Chevrolet Spark (Beat)

Proton Iriz – Image Gallery

Proton Iriz press image front right three quarter green Proton Iriz press image grey front three quarter Proton Iriz press image green side Proton Iriz press image grey rear Proton Iriz press image rear three quarter Proton Iriz press image rear three quarter grey Proton Iriz press image wipers Proton Iriz press image USB charger Proton Iriz press image touchscreen Proton Iriz press image steering wheel Proton Iriz press image seats Proton Iriz press image reverse camera Proton Iriz press image rear seat Proton Iriz press image passenger seats Proton Iriz press image leather seats Proton Iriz press image interior Proton Iriz press image instrument console Proton Iriz press image grey Proton Iriz press image green rear Proton Iriz press image front seat Proton Iriz press image engine start stop button Proton Iriz press image engine bay Proton Iriz press image driving position Proton Iriz press image dashboard Proton Iriz press image color palette Proton Iriz press image bottle holders Proton Iriz press image boot with luggage Proton Iriz press image boot with folded rear seats Proton Iriz press image 6 airbags Proton Iriz press image vanity mirror

Features and Specifications – New VW Vento

Posted: 26 Sep 2014 02:39 AM PDT

The new VW Vento was launched a couple of days ago, and here’s a look at the features and specifications of the sedan.

Dimensions:

VW Vento facelift side press image

  1. Length: 4,384 mm
  2. Width: 1,699 mm
  3. Height: 1,466 mm
  4. Wheelbase: 2,552 mm
  5. Boot capacity: 460 liters

Engine and Gearbox:

VW Vento facelift DSG Transmission press image

  • Engine Option 1: 1,598 cc four-cylinder petrol inline 16v DOHC engine producing 105 PS (103.5 bhp) @ 5,250 rpm and 153 Nm of torque at 3,800 rpm; 5-speed MT rated at 15.04 km/l
  • Engine Option 2: 1,498 cc four-cylinder turbocharged direct injection 16v DOHC diesel engine producing 105 PS (103.5 bhp) @ 4,400 rpm and 250 Nm of torque between 1,500 – 2,500 rpm; 5-speed MT variant fuel efficiency rated at 20.34 km/l and 7-speed DSG at 21.21 km/l
  • Engine Option 3: 1,197 cc four-cylinder turbocharged TSI petrol engine producing 105 PS (103.5 bhp) @ 5,000 rpm and 175 Nm of torque between 1,500 – 4,100 rpm; 7-speed DSG gives 16.93 km/l

Suspension, Brakes and Tires:

VW Vento facelift in motion press image

  • Front: McPherson suspension with stabilizer arm
  • Rear: Semi independent trailing arm
  • Brakes: Disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear
  • Tires: 185/60 R15

Features:

Safety features:

  • Dual airbags
  • ABS and EBD
  • Rear parking sensors
  • ESP with 7-speed DSG transmission

Exterior features:

  • Alloy wheels
  • Dual-barrel headlights
  • New Toffee Brown color

Interior features:

VW Vento facelift dashboard press image

  • 2-DIN music system with Bluetooth, CD, USB and AUX-in
  • Automatic climate control
  • Electrically adjustable wing mirrors
  • Steering mounted audio controls

[Note: These features are seen on the top-end DSG automatic variant.]

VW Vento facelift – Brochure

[Can't see the brochure above? Head to Slideshare]

Report – Maruti Celerio VXi+ limited edition variant launched

Posted: 26 Sep 2014 02:08 AM PDT

Is the first intervention since the launch.

The Maruti Celerio VXi+, an additional variant which will be on sale for a limited period, has been launched. The new mid-level variant is here to lure the festive season shoppers.

Maruti Celerio VXi+

The Maruti Celerio VXi+ with discounted accessories will be on sale for a limited period.

The VXi+ is based on the VXi trim but offers INR 20,000 worth accessories at a discounted rate of INR 13,990. The additional features include body colored door handles, ORVMs with integrated blinkers, double-DIN JVC audio system with speakers and central locking with remote control.

The rest of the equipments stay the same as the regular VXi variant. There are no mechanical changes either. The 1.0-litre three-cylinder K-Series petrol motor continues to pump out 68 PS and 90 Nm of torque. The transmission options are a 5-speed manual or an automated manual transmission (AMT).

Maruti Celerio VXi+ features

The additional accessories worth INR 20,000 are priced at INR 13,990.

The Celerio VXi MT is priced at INR 4.05 lakhs, which means the VXi+ MT variant carries a price tag of INR 4.19 lakhs (both prices are ex-showroom Delhi).

Also read: Maruti Celerio ZDi diesel variant spotted undisguised

In addition to the new variant of its compact car, Maruti is also gearing up to launch the facelifted Swift and Swift Dzire in the coming months.

Competitors: Honda Brio, Chevrolet Beat, Hyundai Grand i10, Ford Figo

Maruti Celerio (VXi variant) – Image Gallery

Maruti Celerio front fascia at the 2014 Nepal Auto Show Maruti Celerio front three quarter at the 2014 Nepal Auto Show Maruti Celerio rear left three quarter at the 2014 Nepal Auto Show Maruti Celerio rear there quarter at the 2014 Nepal Auto Show Maruti Celerio rear at the 2014 Nepal Auto Show Maruti Celerio at the 2014 Nepal Auto Show Maruti Celerio AMT lever at the 2014 Nepal Auto Show Maruti Celerio wheel at the 2014 Nepal Auto Show Maruti Celerio taillight at the 2014 Nepal Auto Show Maruti Celerio ORVM at the 2014 Nepal Auto Show Maruti Celerio headlight at the 2014 Nepal Auto Show

Features and Specifications – New Mahindra Scorpio

Posted: 26 Sep 2014 12:51 AM PDT

The new Mahindra Scorpio went on sale yesterday. Here’s a look at the features and specifications of the SUV.

Dimensions:

Mahindra Scorpio rear three quarters image gallery

  1. Length: 4,456 mm
  2. Width: 1,820 mm
  3. Height: 1,995 mm (1,930 mm in case of 2.5L variant)
  4. Wheelbase: 2,680 mm
  5. Fuel tank capacity: 60 liters

Engine and Gearbox:

New Mahindra Scorpio 2.2-liter mHawk engine zoom-in at the launch

  • Engine Option 1: 2,523 cc four-cylinder m2DiCr turbocharged common rail diesel engine producing 75 bhp @ 3,200 rpm and 200 Nm of torque between 1,400 – 2,200 rpm; 5-speed MT
  • Engine Option 2: 2,179 cc four-cylinder mHawk variable geometry turbocharger common rail direct injection producing 120 bhp @ 4,000 rpm and 280 Nm of torque between 1,800 – 2,800 rpm; 5-speed MT
  • Interesting fact: Mahindra have sold over 4.5 lakh units of the Scorpio in India till date.

Suspension, Brakes and Tires:

New Mahindra Scorpio alloy wheel design at the launch

  • Front: Double wishbone type, independent front coil spring
  • Rear: Multi-link coil spring with anti-roll bar
  • Brakes: Ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear
  • Tires: 235/65 R17; 215/75 R15 for S2 trim

Features:

Safety features:

  • Dual airbags
  • ABS
  • Tyre pressure monitoring system
  • Rear parking sensors

Exterior features:

  • Projector lights with LED daytime running lights
  • LED taillights
  • 17-inch alloy wheels

Interior features:

New Mahindra Scorpio steering wheel

  • 6-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, DVD, USB and AUX-in
  • GPS
  • Rain and light sensors
  • Automatic climate control
  • Electrically adjustable wing mirrors
  • Steering mounted audio and cruise control

[Note: These features are seen on the top-end S10 variant.]

New Mahindra Scorpio – Brochure

[Can't see the brochure above? Head to Slideshare]

Features and Specifications – New Skoda Rapid

Posted: 26 Sep 2014 12:27 AM PDT

The new Skoda Rapid was launched yesterday and here’s a look at the features and specifications of the sedan.

Dimensions:

New Skoda Rapid side studio shot

  1. Length: 4,386 mm
  2. Width: 1,699 mm
  3. Height: 1,466 mm
  4. Wheelbase: 2,552 mm
  5. Boot capacity: 460 liters

Engine and Gearbox:

New Skoda Rapid front fascia studio shot

  • Engine Option 1: 1,598 cc four-cylinder petrol inline 16v DOHC engine producing 105 PS (103.5 bhp) @ 5,250 rpm and 153 Nm of torque at 3,800 rpm; 5-speed MT rated at 15 km/l and 6-speed AT at 14.3 km/l
  • Engine Option 2: 1,498 cc four-cylinder turbocharged direct injection 16v DOHC diesel engine producing 105 PS (103.5 bhp) @ 4,400 rpm and 250 Nm of torque between 1,500 – 2,500 rpm; 5-speed MT variant fuel efficiency rated at 21.14 km/l and 7-speed DSG at 21.66 km/l

Suspension, Brakes and Tires:

New Skoda Rapid alloy wheel studio shot

  • Front: McPherson suspension with lower triangular links and torsion stabilizer
  • Rear: Compound link crank-axle
  • Brakes: Disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear
  • Tires: 185/60 R15

Features:

Safety features:

  • Dual airbags
  • ABS and EBD
  • Rear parking sensors
  • ESP

Exterior features:

  • Projector headlights
  • Alloy wheels
  • Optional Black package

Interior features:

New Skoda Rapid dashboard studio shot

  • 2-DIN music system with Bluetooth, CD, USB and AUX-in
  • Automatic climate control
  • Electrically adjustable wing mirrors
  • Steering mounted audio controls
  • Cruise control

[Note: These features are seen on the top-end DSG automatic variant.]

New Skoda Rapid – Specification Sheet

[Head to Slideshare if you can't see the document above]

Old vs New – New Mahindra Scorpio vs Mahindra Scorpio

Posted: 26 Sep 2014 12:07 AM PDT

The interior design comes from a completely different school of thought.

After an extensive testing regime, the new Mahindra Scorpio has finally succeeded the aging yet brisk selling previous gen model. This article throws light on the visual differences between the new and old workhorse. Click here to read about the technical highlights of the new gen SUV.

New Mahindra Scorpio vs old Mahindra Scorpio front three quarter

Mahindra has reported an improvement in the aerodynamics of the car.

Though the new car is instantly recognizable as a Scorpio from all angles, every single element in the front fascia is new. The larger twin-barrel headlamps with eyebrow-like LED daytime running lights, hexagonal grille with chrome inserts and a new bumper collectively add more aggression to the appearance.

New Mahindra Scorpio vs old Mahindra Scorpio rear three quarter

The most controversial change at the rear is the installation of grab handles above the taillamps.

On the sides, the car retains its design save for the new alloy wheels and front fender vents. The rear gets a significantly reworked tailgate and LED combination lights. The license plate has been moved higher and there is a black plastic cladding around it, resulting in a smaller rear windshield.

New Mahindra Scorpio vs old Mahindra Scorpio dashboard

The design and hardware of the dashboard is updated.

Inside, the new Scorpio hardly has anything in common with the outgoing model. The whole new dual-tone black and beige dashboard is familiar to the new front-end design. The steering wheel has been lifted from the XUV500 and the centre console hosts a color infotainment display.

Watch the new Mahindra Scorpio’s TVC

It has to be mentioned that Mahindra’s decision to ditch the tacky looking faux-wooden finish for AC vents and centre console has gone a long way in improving the cabin’s perceived quality. The door pads and seat fabrics are also new and exude a better feel.

Competitors: Tata Safari Storme, Renault Duster, Nissan Terrano

Price: INR 7.98-11.46 lakhs (ex-showroom Mumbai)

New Mahindra Scorpio vs Mahindra Scorpio – Image Gallery

New Mahindra Scorpio vs old Mahindra Scorpio front three quarter New Mahindra Scorpio vs old Mahindra Scorpio rear three quarter New Mahindra Scorpio vs old Mahindra Scorpio interior New Mahindra Scorpio vs old Mahindra Scorpio front New Mahindra Scorpio vs old Mahindra Scorpio dashboard

Comparo – New Mahindra Scorpio vs Tata Safari Storme vs Renault Duster vs Nissan Terrano

Posted: 25 Sep 2014 11:35 PM PDT

Mahindra launched the new generation Scorpio yesterday with prices beginning at INR 8.4 lakhs, ex-Showroom, New Delhi. Here’s how the Scorpio stacks up against its rivals like the Tata Safari Storme, Renault Duster and Nissan Terrano. The newly launched Renault Duster AWD is also included in this comparison.

In terms of dimensions, the Terrano and Duster are fairly compact at 4.3 meters in length and 1.6 meters in height. The larger Scorpio measures 4.45 meters in length, while the Storme has a generous 4.65 meter length. The Storme and Scorpio are tall vehicles at a height of 1.9 meters.

New Mahindra Scorpio vs Renault Duster comparo

Despite their length, the wheelbase of the Scorpio and Safari are comparable to the Duster and Terrano. At 2,680 mm, the Scorpio has the longest wheelbase, matched closely by the Renault and Nissan’s 2,673 mm.

The Scorpio and Safari come with 2.2-liter engines (the Scorpio is available with a base 2.5-liter unit as well), with the Tata making more power and torque at 140 PS and 320 Nm. Both cars come with a 5-speed manual transmission. The K9K diesel powering the Duster and Terrano is available in tunes of 85 PS and 110 PS, with the more powerful version getting a 6-speed manual unit.

The new gen Scorpio has a fuel efficiency of 15.37 km/l compared to the Duster and Terrano’s 20.45 km/l (for the 85 PS variant).

For the 2WD variants, prices range between INR 8.4 – 11.95 lakhs for the Scorpio, INR 9.93 – 12.42 for the Storme, INR 8.7 – 11.91 lakhs for the Duster and INR 9.62 – 12.49 lakhs for the Terrano.

The 4WD variants are priced between INR 10.11 – 13.05 lakhs for the Scorpio, at INR 13.7 lakhs for the Storme and between INR 11.89 – 12.99 lakhs for the Duster. The Terrano doesn’t get a 4WD option.

Malaysia – Proton Iriz global hatchback launched at INR 7.99 lakhs

Posted: 25 Sep 2014 10:02 PM PDT

The Iriz comes with two engine options.

The much awaited Proton Iriz, Malaysia’s first ever global automobile, has been launched at a starting price of RM 42,438 (around INR 7.99 lakhs).

Proton Iriz press image

The Proton Iriz is packed with several standard safety and comfort features.

The compact car which was developed grounds up by Proton will be sold in several international markets in the coming months. In the domestic market, the Iriz will take on the best selling Perodua Myvi while in the international markets, competition would come from the likes of VW Up!, Hyundai i10 (Grand i10 in India), Honda Brio, Chevrolet Spark (Beat in India), etc.

Proton Iriz specifications Page 1

Proton Iriz specifications Page 2

The Iriz is available with a set of two VVT petrol engines displacing 1.3- and 1.6-litre. The smaller powerplant is capable of 93.8 bhp (70 KW) and 120 Nm of torque while the bigger unit produces 107.2 bhp (80 KW) and 150 Nm of torque. Both the motors can be specified either with a 5-speed manual or a CVT automatic.

Proton Iriz press image interior

The interior adopts a full black theme.

The 1.3-litre engine propels the hatchback from 0-100 km/h in 12.2 seconds when mated to the MT and in 13.1 seconds when mated to the CVT. The top speed stands at 165 km/h. The 1.6-litre mill, irrespective of the transmission, takes 11.1 seconds to reach 100 km/h from rest before attaining a maximum speed of 175 km/h.

Proton Iriz variants and prices in Malaysia

Given its global aspirations, the Proton Iriz comes packed with several standard safety and comfort features to make a strong case for itself.

Also read: Perodua Axia launched in Malaysia

Competitors: VW Up!, Hyundai i10, Honda Brio, Chevrolet Beat

Proton Iriz – Image Gallery

Proton Iriz Proton Iriz press image Proton Iriz press image wipers Proton Iriz press image USB charger Proton Iriz press image touchscreen Proton Iriz press image steering wheel Proton Iriz press image seats Proton Iriz press image reverse camera Proton Iriz press image rear three quarter Proton Iriz press image rear three quarter grey Proton Iriz press image rear seat Proton Iriz press image passenger seats Proton Iriz press image leather seats Proton Iriz press image interior Proton Iriz press image instrument console Proton Iriz press image grey Proton Iriz press image grey rear Proton Iriz press image grey front three quarter Proton Iriz press image green side Proton Iriz press image green rear Proton Iriz press image front seat Proton Iriz press image front right three quarter green Proton Iriz press image engine start stop button Proton Iriz press image engine bay Proton Iriz press image driving position Proton Iriz press image dashboard Proton Iriz press image color palette Proton Iriz press image bottle holders Proton Iriz press image boot with luggage Proton Iriz press image boot with folded rear seats Proton Iriz press image 6 airbags Proton Iriz press image vanity mirror

Proton Iriz – Brochure

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Comparo – New Skoda Rapid vs new Vento vs City vs Ciaz vs Verna

Posted: 25 Sep 2014 09:50 PM PDT

VW and group company Skoda launched the updated Vento and Rapid respectively over the last couple of days. The updates to these sedans focus only on the diesel variants as they are now given the more advanced 1.5-liter four-cylinder TDI unit. Additionally, the diesel variants of these cars come with an automatic transmission as well, giving some much needed competition to the Verna which until now was the lone car in its class with this feature.

Speaking about dimensions, the new Rapid and Vento see no changes. As a result, the pecking order here remains unchanged with the Linea being the longest in its class, followed by the upcoming Ciaz and Sunny respectively. In terms of wheelbase, the Ciaz gets a class-leading 2,650 mm followed by the Linea’s 2,603 mm and the City’s and Sunny’s 2,600 mm.

New Skoda Rapid vs new VW Vento vs Honda City vs Maruti Ciaz vs Hyundai Verna

In terms of engine power and torque, the 1.5 TDI from VW produces identical numbers to its 1.6 TDI predecessor. And that again means that the pecking order is left unchanged here as well: The Verna 1.6 is the most powerful, and the Sunny is the least powerful of the lot.

All cars come with a 5- or 6-speed manual transmission as standard. For the first time in this segment, the Rapid and Vento diesels are available with a 7-speed DSG transmission. Competition for these variants comes only from the Verna 1.6 AT, which uses an old-school 4-speed torque converter.

Thanks to the DSG, the Rapid AT and Vento AT deliver better efficiency than their manual counterparts. However, in pure numbers, the Ciaz claims to be the most efficient at 26.21 km/l, followed by the City’s 26 km/l.

In terms of pricing, the manual variants of the new cars continue with largely similar pricing as their predecessors. However, its the prices of the automatic transmission variants which has got people talking. The DSG-equipped diesel variants of the Rapid and Vento are priced between INR 10.49 – 10.97 lakhs, ex-Showroom Delhi, whereas the Verna AT costs significantly more at INR 10.68 – 11.72 lakhs.

It should also be mentioned that the top-end variants of the Rapid and Vento DSG are priced lower than the top-end variants of the new City and Verna MT.

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