Indian Autos blog » New Cars India

More speculation? New Swift to come only by Q1 2011?

Naveen — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 07:11:55 +0000

The next generation Suzuki Swift would soon be launched in India following its international launch scheduled for the Paris Motor Show in October 2010. As of now the car has been unveiled only in Hungary.

Suzuki has revealed the engine options for the 2011 Swift, a new 1.2l VVT engine petrol producing 93 bhp and the existing Fiat sourced Mutijet 1.3 DDiS diesel would be powering the Swift. CVT automatic transmissions would also be offered.

For India, the 1.2l K-series engine producing 84 bhp and the 1.3l DDiS diesel would stay. Maruti Suzuki India could also bring the VVT 1.2l engine. Maruti would be skeptical about offering an automatic tranny on the new Swift but we expect it could follow months after the car’s launch.

When Indian Autos Blog inquired about the new Swift selling alongside the current model, Maruti Suzuki didn’t reveal anything but hinted that the newer generations would be replace the old.

Going by BS Motoring’s report, we expect Maruti to launch the 2011 Swift in India by the first half of 2011. But considering strong threats from the Ford Figo and the upcoming Chevrolet Beat diesel, we expect Maruti Suzuki to bring in the new Swift by March 2011.

Source: BSM

Bentley launches two new cars in India

Dave — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 18:19:41 +0000

Bentley announced the launch of two of its new four-door models in the Indian market – The new Continental Flying Spur and the Continental Flying Spur Speed. These two new additions will be sold alongside the two-door Continental GT and the Arnage R.

Before we talk about the new arrivals, we thought it would be appropriate to comment on the Press Release that we received from Bentley in this regard. The press release categorically mentions that the Continental Flying Spur is the “Fastest car in the world” and that the difference in the two new cars only lies in the type of audio system used. With enough evidence to understand that the press release was prepared by someone not related in anyway to Bentley, we gathered some info that you might be interested in.

Bentley Continental Flying Spur

The Bentley Continental Flying Spur is aimed at the rear-seat occupying business magnate who is looking to get from A to B in luxury. The whole car is crafted to perfection, inside and out. Even though the basic design looks similar to the outgoing Flying Spur, Bentley is said to have made some major tweaks to the new model, resulting in better dynamics. However, we could notice only one change, wider chrome-meshed front bumper.

A plethora of combinations of single tone and dual-tone colours are available. The interiors reflect a generous amount of cattle sacrifices and rainforest depletion. Apart from these, the car comes with a custom made 1100 Watt Naim High-Fidelity amplifier that connects to 15 speakers.

Bentley Continental Flying Spur Specs

Engine Capacity : 5998cc
Max. Power : 552bhp / 560 PS / 412kW @ 6100rpm
Max.Torque : 650Nm, 479 lb-ft @ 1600rpm-6100rpm
6-speed automatic transmission
Max. Speed 194mph / 312km/h
Acceleration 0 – 60mph 4.9 seconds
Acceleration 0 – 100km/h 5.2 seconds

__________________________________________________________________________

Bentley Continental Flying Spur ‘Speed’

Apart from being the fastest four-door Bentley, it’s also the most highly engineered Bentley ever. Unlike the standard Spur, this car is aimed at the business magnate who wants to get from A to B in luxury and fast.

The Speed’s engine develops 15% more torque and 9% more power than the standard Flying Spur, while engine efficiency is optimized by the use of lower friction, lighter-weight components and a new engine management system.

In order to distinguish it from the standard Spur, the front grille and lower air intakes are in dark-tinted chrome. The rear wider rifled sports exhaust tailpipes hint the potential of this model. It comes with silver plated 20-inch multi-spoke alloys that run on Pirelli PZero performance tyres.

Improved agility and body control is achieved through up rated spring and damper settings as well as thicker anti-roll bars front and rear. To aid the car’s high-speed dynamics, the Flying Spur Speed’s self-leveling air suspension sits 10mm lower. The advanced electronic stability programme (ESP), up rated to ESP 8.1 for both models, is said to ensure better driver interaction and control.

Bentley Continental Flying Spur ‘Speed’ Specs

Engine Capacity : 5998cc
Max. Power : 600bhp / 610 PS / 449kW @ 6000rpm
Max.Torque : 750Nm, 553 lb-ft @ 1700-5600rpm
6-speed automatic transmission
Max. Speed 200mph / 322km/h
Acceleration 0 – 60mph 4.5 seconds
Acceleration 0 – 100km/h 4.8 seconds

Source - Bentley

Suzuki Grand Vitara with 2.4-liter VVT engine launched

Shrawan Raja — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 15:25:01 +0000

Maruti Suzuki has launched the new 2.4L Grand Vitara more powerful sporting a 2.4L, 163.5 Bhp engine as against the current 2.0L, 120 bhp one.

A 2.4 litre VVT (Variable Valve Timing) engine delivering 163.5bhp @ 6000rpm and 225NM @ 4000rpm, claims Maruti, will deliver satisfactory power and efficiency.

The 2.4-liter Grand Vitara receives a few cosmetic upgrades with interior changes. Only time will tell whether Grand Vitara can hold a candle in front of the segment leader Honda CRV or for that matter the Chevy Captiva.

Features of the new Suzuki Grand Vitara

New Multi Information Display (MID).
A new front grille and front bumper along with the 17 inch alloy wheels
Rear disc brakes

click through for press release

Press Release

New Delhi, July 3, 2009: Maruti Suzuki India Limited, the country’s largest passenger car manufacturer, today introduced a brand new version of its popular high end SUV – Grand Vitara.

The new Grand Vitara 2.4 comes reloaded with a 2.4 litre VVT (Variable Valve Timing) engine that delivers a maximum power of 163.5 bhp @ 6000 rpm and a torque of 225 NM @ 4000 rpm. The VVT engine on the new Grand Vitara 2.4 delivers a balanced mix of power and efficiency.

The Suzuki Grand Vitara SUV range has always been loved by the customers for its style and handling as well as its off-road capabilities. The new Grand Vitara 2.4 answers the customer’s need for more power.

An All-time, 4-mode, 4-Wheel Drive (4WD) continues to ensure effective control across terrains. Disc brakes in the rear wheels, that ensure superior braking, provide additional safety dimension to the Grand Vitara 2.4.
The new Grand Vitara 2.4 is packed with many new features that add style and a bold look. The interior display in the car has been enhanced with a new Multi Information Display (MID) providing easy to read and accurate vehicle information like Cruising range, Average speed and instantaneous fuel consumption, besides “low-fuel” warning. All these add up to enhanced user convenience and driving comfort.

The stylish new front grille and front bumper gives the Grand Vitara a sleeker look while the 17 inch alloy wheels add dynamism.

A centre speaker coupled with a 6-CD changer brings in a surround-sound effect. Improved acoustics and a redesigned power train helps in lower noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels. A sliding centre-console armrest adds to passenger comfort.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Mayank Pareek, Executive Officer (M&S) Maruti Suzuki India Limited said, “The new version of Grand Vitara takes the three decades of Suzuki SUV heritage to the next level. Highly popular the world over, the Grand Vitara is one of the global strategic models in Suzuki Range. For all those customers, who are increasingly looking at SUVs, the Grand Vitara 2.4 offers more power and the best in class 4X4 drive at a highly competitive price.”

The Grand Vitara brand of Suzuki has sold over 2.5 million units worldwide winning over 32 reputed awards across 16 countries. Leading accolades for Grand Vitara include 6 awards in USA, 4 in Germany, 5 in Russia and 3 in Australia.

The new Grand Vitara 2.4 comes in two variants: 5-speed Manual Transmission (5 front + 1 reverse) and 4-speed Automatic Transmission (4 front + 1 reverse).

The Grand Vitara 2.4 is available across the country immediately. The Grand Vitara 2.4 is competitively priced as under:
(Ex-Showroom, Delhi)
Manual transmission – Grand Vitara 2.4 Rs.16.67 lakh
Automatic transmission – Rs.17.97 lakh

Honda Jazz in India; Mumbai launch details and 155 exclusive, close-up images

Shrawan Raja — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 17:48:48 +0000

Honda Cars India today launched its much anticipated model, the Jazz, in a sparkling function here at the Hotel Taj Lands End, Mumbai. This model is known as the Fit in other countries.

The Honda Jazz is powered by a made for India 1.2-liter iVTEC engine giving out 90bhp power and 110nm of torque. The mileage figures given to us by Honda for the Jazz are between 16.5 to 18kmpl.

With maximum space for passengers and luggage as the intention, the Jazz has been very cleverly put together, acres of space even for the luggage once the rear seats are folded. Otherwise, passengers will find it hard to complain as the cabin is airy and comfortable, offering generous knee and shoulder room irrespective of where you are seated.

The function was set into motion by the very talented stand up comedian Veer Das with his witty humor cracked up the room effortlessly. Honda India’s CEO Masahiro Takedagawa spoke about Honda’s performance in India and the various awards they secured in the recent past including the ICOTY and the JMD awards.

From there the event continued with the A/V presentation showing how the Jazz, through various stages, made it to production. The marketing head Ms Amrita Kaur took to the stage and explained the key features of the Jazz.

Honda targets to sell the same number of Jazz as the City for a start. The Jazz is pitched to the youth, who are in need of a car that reflects their lifestyle and attitude. Available in 6 colors, the Jazz comes in three variants- Jazz (7.43 lakhs), Jazz Mode (7.73 lakhs), Jazz Active (7.78 lakhs) ex-showroom Mumbai.

Honda Jazz India Mumbai Launch Slideshow

If you can’t view the slideshow above, then head directly to the Honda Jazz Image Gallery

Press Release

Honda launches its latest global car Jazz in India

Mumbai, June 11: Honda Siel Cars India Ltd., leading manufacturer of premium cars in India, today launched its latest global car – the Honda Jazz. Boasting an optimum balance between a futuristic aerodynamic exterior and spacious interiors, the Jazz is a segment-defining car that has won accolades and adoration all over the world.Widely acclaimed for its dynamic styling, spacious interiors, versatile utility and remarkable performance, the Honda Jazz brings added fun and excitement to the driving experience.

The Jazz’s dynamic performance is achieved by a newly developed four-cylinder 1.2-liter i-VTEC engine, featuring Programmed Fuel Injection that delivers maximum output of 90 PS (66 kW) @ 6,200 rpm and Torque of 110 Nm (11.2 kg-m) @ 4800 rpm while giving impressive fuel economy of 16.1 km/l, as per ARAI test data. Jazz is available in 5-speed manual transmission with gear ratios optimized for a sporty driving experience, while ensuring good fuel economy. The Drive by Wire throttle control system enables precise control of the vehicle while driving.

In line with Honda’s mission to reduce its environmental footprint, the new engine is E10 compatible and has Euro IV emission levels.This engine has been specially developed for the Indian Market and reflects the company’s commitment towards India and its continued focus on bringing in the latest global technology into the country.

Honda’s design principle “Man Maximum – Machine Minimum” has defined the underlying approach in the design concept of the Honda Jazz that calls for maximizing the space available for passengers and minimizing the space occupied by mechanical components. Jazz offers futuristic, sporty, and aerodynamic exteriors, combined with new-age interiors, along with the best in class safety technology.

The Jazz chassis realizes both superior ride comfort and agile handling. The high rigidity body and supple suspension provide an exceptional dynamic performance. The car features a McPherson strut suspension in the front. The H-shaped torsion beam rear suspension achieves the maximum possible space for the rear seats and cargo area as well as steady ride comfort and agile handling. The Electric Power Steering aids the driver to steer the car with less effort and gives better handling.

Safety of passengers and pedestrians is a top priority for Honda and all safety equipment is standard across all variants. The Honda Jazz comes fully loaded with various active and passive safety features including ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Brake-Force Distribution System), Dual SRS airbags and pre-tensioner seat belts. Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering Body (ACE)and G-CON (G-Force Control Technology) provide a high integrity survival zone that enhances self-protection and better compatibility in collisions with other vehicles. Honda’s Pedestrian-injury reduction body design helps protect pedestrians from injury in the event of a collision.

The exterior styling concept of Jazz is an Advanced Super Forward Cabin and Dynamic Forward Leaning Form which is intended to express both spaciousness and dynamic motion. The big front quarter windows, slim front pillar and integrated rear head rest provide clear visibility in all directions for more comfortable and safe driving.

Honda Jazz comes with a new-age interior design, which is sophisticated and exciting with advanced functionality including a Tilt steering column for ensuring comfortable driving position for all drivers, Keyless Entry with answer back, Integrated audio equipment with MP3/ CD and Aux-in, Steering Mounted Audio Controls, Auto Volume by Speed, Magic Seats and Driver’s footrest. The large three-meter cluster provides superior visibility with permanent illumination. The speedometer, located in the center of the cluster, features a large LED display providing of a broad range of information, including instant fuel economy and range indications, which are easy to read and operate without distracting driver’s mind from driving.

The packaging of Honda Jazz is based on Honda’s innovative center tank layout which allows enhancement of cabin space and practicality. This layout helps maintaining excellent maneuverability of a 4.9 meter minimum turning radius. At 3900 mm long, 1695 mm wide, 1535 mm tall and wheelbase of 2500 mm, efficient use of space has been made to create a spacious cabin interior.

The 3 stage opening of doors and rear doors opening to a wide 80° angle, provide easier access for passengers and facilitating loading and unloading of luggage. The car boasts of a class leading spacious boot and the tailgate opening is located 615 mm from the ground, making it easy to load and unload luggage. The Honda Jazz features 10 cup holders, double glove box and a secret box for hidden storage under the rear seat.

The Jazz practicality has been enhanced with three
- mode “Magic Seat” configuration to achieve multiple seating and cargo-carrying configurations for long or tall objects in addition to the standard five-passenger mode.

Utility mode: Easy one-motion dive down and reverse operation of the rear seats. The luggage space can be extended to a maximum length of 1,720 mm thanks to the spacious full-flat floor.

Long mode: In Utility mode, place the passenger seat in the full reclining position to create a space up to 2,400 mm long to carry long objects.

Tall mode: Fold up the rear seat cushions to take advantage of Jazz’s 1,280 mm roof height—the perfect way to make space for tall items like house plants.

Honda Jazz is being manufactured at HSCI’s facility in Greater Noida, U.P. with localisation level of 77%. Bookings for the Honda Jazz will start immediately at the company’s vast distribution network of 105 authorised dealership facilities, across the country. HSCI has already expanded and strengthened its dealer network in preparation for the launch of the Jazz. This network is likely to go up to 112 facilities by the end of the current financial year.

The Honda Jazz will be available in three types in Manual transmission – Jazz, Jazz “Mode” & Jazz “Active” in six vibrant colours – Habanero Red, Deep Sapphire Blue, Sherbet Blue, Alabaster Silver, Taffetta White and Crystal Black Pearl.

The Honda Jazz comes with a 2+2 years or 80,000 kms warranty and 4 years Roadside Assistance as standard value for all Jazz buyers.

Speaking on the occasion Mr. Masahiro Takedagawa, President and CEO, Honda Siel Cars India Ltd said, “The Honda Jazz is a segment defining car and is loaded with all the values that are associated with Honda – global design, great drivability, fuel efficiency and safety. The Jazz will cater to a unique group of people who want the latest and most stylish models with the best of technology, safety and practicality in their car. We are confident that like our other products, the Jazz will be well accepted in the country.”

Sold successfully in over 130 countries with cumulative sales of more than 2.8 million units, the Honda Jazz has won over 40 international awards. The 2nd Generation Jazz (also known as Honda Fit in Japan) was awarded the Japan Car of the Year (2007-2008) making history by winning the same award as the 1st generation model. The car has earned the best-selling position in Japan in 2008 and is the latest benchmark of Japanese car market.

Toyota Land Cruiser now in India – Price & specification; exclusive images

Shrawan Raja — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 18:09:29 +0000

Toyota today unveiled its flagship SUV internationally, the legendary Land Cruiser in a glittering function at the Hotel Grand Hyatt, here in Mumbai.

Presided over by Mr Hiroshi Nakagawa MD TKM , Mr. Vikram Kirloskar Vice Chairman of TKM and his team Mr Sundeep Singh DMD TKM and Chief Engineer TKM, Mr.Sadayoshi Koyari, the event kicked off with a audio-visual on the history of the Land Cruiser. The presentation depicted every generation of the Land Cruiser and the how the vehicle evolved to reach this stage.

Next, Mr. Hiroshi Nakagawa introduced the members in the dais followed by another presentation by the company’s chief engineer who brought out the features and technical details of the vehicle. Once that was over, the car was driven on to the stage followed by the photo session and question and answer session.

This monster of a SUV is priced at Rs.83.1 lakhs (ex-showroom Thane) for the higher variant and Rs. 81.64 lakhs for the lower variant. The upper is distinguished by merely the JBL DVD/Audio system, EMV screen and a moon roof.

The Land Cruiser is powered by a 4500cc V8 engine that is good for 285bhp and 650Nm of torque. The engine shares a relationship with a 6-speed Auto transmission. The Land Cruiser will be available in 10 colors and the company expects to sell the same number of vehicles this year.

Mr Hiroshi Nakagawa reaffirmed the Fortuner would be the company’s next launch in September.

Toyota Land Cruiser Mumbai launch function images

if you cannot view the slideshow above, reach the images at the Land Cruiser image gallery

Toyota launches Land Cruiser

King of SUVs, Now in India!

Globally Unmatched Advanced Technology, Over-powering performance, Luxury and Off-Road Capabilities
At attractive price of Rs 81.64 lakhs onwards(Ex-showroom, Thane)

8^th Generation legendary Toyota Land Cruiser, ‘Pride of the World’, now available in India.
Flagship brand of Toyota’s SUV portfolio globally.
Overpowering performance with 4.5 L V8 diesel engine generating 286 PS, and a maximum torque of 650 Nm, with 6 speed automatic transmission.
Unmatched features for the ultimate driving experience – Unique Crawl Control System, enhanced Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), Hill Assist Control and Multi-Terrain ABS system.
Luxurious comfort: 6 DVD, 14 speaker JBL system with EMV screen and advanced 4 zone air-conditioning system with 28 outlets.
Unbeatable standards of passenger protection and security – 10 airbags with Seat Position Sensors, Active Traction Control, Clearance and Back Sonar to assist in cornering/reversing
Available in 10 exciting body colors and two interior options

Mumbai, 9^th June 2009 – Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt. Ltd. (TKM) today announced the launch of the globally acclaimed leader in the premium SUV segment, the Toyota Land Cruiser, in India.

The 8^th Generation Land Cruiser, which offers the ultimate four-wheel-drive and has unparalleled cutting-edge technology and comfort features, was unveiled in Mumbai today by Mr. Hiroshi Nakagawa (MD, TKM). The Land Cruiser has a rich heritage of over 50 years and having sold over 5 million units globally, is the world’s most successful SUV.

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Vikram Kirloskar, Vice-Chairman, TKM, said, “Toyota’s Land Cruiser is globally acknowledged as a combination of the ultimate driving experience and luxurious interior/exteriors and comfort features. This ‘King of SUVs’ offers complete freedom of movement, ensured strength, durability and reliability with outstanding off-road performance. The Land Cruiser ensures both road stability and a long suspension stroke for off-road driving.”

Added Mr. Hiroshi Nakagawa, Managing Director, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM), “We’re very proud to finally bring to India the much-awaited 8th Generation Toyota Land Cruiser. Not only is the Land Cruiser a global benchmark in automotive engineering, it is also the ultimate lifestyle statement of luxury, comfort and best-in-class safety features. Our aim is to bring to our customers the world’s most admired SUV, backed by Toyota’s countrywide assured sales and service support.”

Added Mr. Sandeep Singh, DMD, Marketing, TKM, “Inspite of the recent slowdown, the Premium SUV segment has witnessed a growth, driven largely by the introduction of new models. We will execute comprehensive training programmes at our dealerships to provide the necessary sales support and create the desired impact amongst our high end customers. We will also implement a focused marketing campaign (including print, magazines, hoardings, direct marketing, web and SMS) to inform all our customers about Toyota’s capabilities in advanced technology and over-powering performance demonstrated in the Land Cruiser.”

Mr. Sadayoshi Koyari, Chief Engineer, Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) said, “The New Land Cruiser has been extremely successful globally. The Land Cruiser can handle different terrains with an innovative Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System, which offers both on-road stability and off-road exploration. The unique Crawl Control System automatically balances engine power and the brakes, thereby enabling the Land Cruiser to handle all types of rocky terrain.”

The multi-terrain ABS continually monitors engine revolutions and vehicle speed, instantly adjusting wheel-slippage regardless of surface conditions. The Hill Assist Control further contributes to smooth hill starts making the Land Cruiser suitable for mountainous terrain. And as always, passenger safety and security has been prioritized by providing 10 airbags with Seat Position Sensors, Active Traction Control, Vehicle Stability Control and Clearance and Back Sonar (to assist in cornering/reversing).

The new Land Cruiser has the world’s most advanced four zone air-conditioning system where each passenger has an independent temperature control facility.

The new Land Cruiser will be available in two options. One will have 9 speakers and the other will have an advanced 6 DVD, 14 JBl premium speaker system with EMV screen and a Moonroof. These options will be available at Rs 81.64 lakhs and Rs 83.1 lakhs (Ex-showroom, Thane) respectively.

Toyota introduces Limited Edition Corolla Altis Sport

Dave — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 18:21:54 +0000

Only 300 units to be sold
No change in engine configuration
Individual personalized logos for each customer
Available in two colours – Metallic Grey and Metallic Silver
Priced at Rs 11.35 lakh, ex-showroom Delhi

By adding an aerodynamic front chin and rear bumper spoiler, a headlamp garnish, sleek side skirts and rear LED spoilers to the Corolla Altis, Toyota Kirloskar is said to have launched a new car – the Corolla Altis Sport.

Toyota says that the all new Corolla Altis Sport (Limited Edition) has been launched, with young car enthusiasts in mind. The company claims that this car has been designed to give customers the stylish image of a car which is youthful and sporty, and has exciting new features.

Speaking on the marketing strategy, Mr. Sandeep Singh, Deputy Managing Director (Marketing), TKM, said ,

“The new Corolla Altis Sport will be promoted extensively by an integrated marketing campaign, which leverages its association with active sports such as Tennis, Polo and Formula One, and is focused on young, urban customers. This will include web, print and magazine campaigns, direct marketing, SMS and e-DMs exclusively targeted at young professionals.”

Press Release

Toyota introduces All New Corolla Altis Sport (Limited Edition) Youthful Style, Comfort and Luxury

New limited edition sporty variant of premium executive sedan – Toyota Corolla Altis Sport, introduced
*Only 300 units to be made available to customers
*Available in 2 exciting colors – New metallic grey and metallic silver
*Priced attractively at Rs 11.35 lakhs, ex-showroom, Delhi

New Delhi, 4th June 2009 - Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt. Ltd. today announced the introduction of the all new Corolla Altis Sport (Limited Edition) to target young car enthusiasts. The new Corolla Altis Sport has been designed to give customers the stylish image of a car which is youthful and sporty, and has exciting new features.

Adding to the stylish look of the car is an aerodynamic front and rear bumper spoiler, a classy headlamp garnish, sleek side skirts and exclusive rear LED spoilers. A contemporary dual tone seat fabric and wood finish rear cup holders heighten the feeling of luxury and elegance.

Commenting on the launch of the new limited edition, Mr. Hiroshi Nakagawa, Managing Director, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) said, “The Corolla Altis launched last year has been highly appreciated by our customers because of its advanced luxury and comfort features. We are now delighted to introduce the all new Corolla Altis Sport, which will offer sporty styling in combination with these features.”

Mr. Sandeep Singh, Deputy Managing Director (Marketing), TKM, added “Only 300 units of the new Limited Edition Corolla Altis Sport will be available for sales. Additionally, individual personalized logos for each of our customers will enhance the exclusivity of ownership of the Corolla Altis Sport. We look forward to bringing to our customers a limited edition of the widely appreciated Corolla Altis, which will offer exclusive ownership and sporty style. The new Corolla Altis Sport will be attractively priced at Rs 11.35 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi) and will be available at all Toyota dealerships from today.”

Mr. Singh added, “The new Corolla Altis Sport will be promoted extensively by an integrated marketing campaign, which leverages its association with active sports such as Tennis, Polo and Formula One, and is focused on young, urban customers. This will include web, print and magazine campaigns, direct marketing, SMS and e-DMs exclusively targeted at young professionals.”

The Corolla Altis has attracted customers from the corporate/executive segment and has been a true symbol of Toyota passenger cars in India. It has brought to the Indian market innovative luxury and exclusive comfort, designed to more than satisfy the auto consumer’s desire for perfection.

Exclusive – Images from Audi Q5 launch function

Ritesh Madhok — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 17:27:18 +0000

can’t see the slideshow above? Go directly to the Audi Q5 India Launch Image Gallery

Audi India launched the Q5 here in Mumbai this afternoon. This sporty SUV is the smaller sibling to the mighty Q7, recognizable by the similar tough-and-tidy looks. The launch function was conducted at the Audi lounge at India Bulls and Managing Director of Audi India Mr Benoit Tiers, donning an elegant suit with a sparkling red tie presided over the event.

The prices for the Q5 are quite attractive starting at INR 3,829,000 for the 2.0 TSI (petrol) and 4,419,000 for the 3.0 TDI (diesel). This vehicle would be available in five vibrant colors

Audi expects to sell 100 Units of the CBU this year which should not be a difficult task after seeing its multi-fold growth pattern from the time of its arrival in India.

Through reliable sources, we have come to know that a new version of the Q7 would be available in India very soon, might be launched in this quarter.

The Q5 is a very impressive SUV with strong off-road capabilities, which we verify later this month. The LED headlights, a common feature on all modern Audis add visual delight to the Q5.

Showcased at the event were the awesome range of the Audi cars, the A4, A6, A8 Q7, TT and R8 were present alongside to welcome the new member into the Indian family.

Audi Q5 SUV launched; Rs 38.29 lakh base model price

Dave — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 17:26:49 +0000

click here to view Exclusive Images from the launch function

German luxury car maker Audi today launched its new Q5 SUV in the form of two variants – 2.0 TFSI (petrol) and 3.0 TDI (diesel).

Voted the Best Off-Roader in Europe by Auto Motor und Sport and awarded the Golden Steering Wheel in Germany, the Audi Q5 shares its architecture with the VW Touareg and its underpinnings are based on the A4 sedan. Hence, it combines a sports sedan with a quattro permanent all-wheel drive.

The Q5′s large single-frame grill dominates the car’s front-end, the headlamps have xenon plus bulbs and LED running lights as standard, and the rear lights also feature LED technology.

The Audi Q5 is 4.63 meters (15.19 feet) long, 1.88 meters (6.17 feet) wide and 1.65 meters (5.41 feet) high, giving it the sportiest proportions in the segment.

Both the petrol and diesel engines are direct injection units with turbochargers. They boast monstrous pulling power and impressive fuel efficiency. The new 2.0 TFSI with Audi valvelift system has a maximum power output of 211 hp (155 kW ) and sprints to 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds. The 3.0 TDI is the most powerful engine in the range with 240 hp (176 kW ) and 500Nm of torque. It takes the car from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds with a top speed of 225 km/h.

For these engines Audi has developed a new generation of the dynamic S tronic – the innovative dual-clutch transmission now has seven gears. Being a performance SUV, the Audi Q5 drives with sporty precision and unwavering stability, with a climbing performance of a staggering 31 degrees.

The standard and optional equipment includes

Audi driver information system
MMI (Multi Media Interface)
Xenon plus headlights with LED technology
Bang & Olufsen surround sound, a DVD player
Rear Seat Entertainment
3-Zone automatic air conditioning
Cruise control
Acoustic parking system with rearview camera
many more additional features

The Audi Q5 range starts at Rs 38.29 lakh (Rs 3.82 million) for the 2.0 TFSI and Rs 44.19 lakh (Rs 4.4 million) for the 3.0 TDI (ex-showroom Mumbai) and will be offered in six colours: Stratos Blue, Garnet Red, Ice Silver, Meteor Grey, Phantom Black and Ibis White.

The new Audi Q5 will be available along with the entire Audi model range comprising the new Audi A6, Audi A8, Audi Q7, Audi A4, Audi TT and the super sports car Audi R8 at 11 dealerships across the country: in Delhi, Gurgaon, Chandigarh, Ludhiana, Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai and Kochi.

Press Release

Mumbai – Audi, the German luxury car manufacturer, today launched the much awaited Audi Q5 – the sportiest and most elegant SUV in its class. Audi Q5 is a marvel of precision engineering, luxurious interiors, with dynamic and innovative features and progressive design. Voted the Best Off-Roader in Europe by auto motor und sport and awarded the Golden Steering Wheel in Germany, the Audi Q5 combines the dynamism of a sports sedan with Audi’s legendary quattro permanent all-wheel drive to create a superior technology package for both on- and off-road driving. The Audi Q5 with two engine options – 2.0 TFSI and 3.0 TDI – will be available at Audi dealerships across India from June 4th, 2009 onwards.

“The Audi Q5 stands testament to Audi’s commitment to innovation and sophistication. We introduce now another excellent product of the Audi model range to our Indian customers. The market for the SUV segment has seen tremendous growth in this country during the last years. Driven by our philosophy of ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’, the Audi Q5 will become a benchmark for style, performance, safety, comfort and driving dynamics in its segment. It joins its ‘big brother’ Audi Q7 increating a new market for the smaller luxury SUV admirer in the country,” said Mr. Benoit Tiers, Managing Director Audi India.

The Audi Q5’s design is elegant and sculptural – typically for Audi, which is the leading brand in this domain. The large single-frame grill dominates the front-end, the headlamps have xenon plus bulbs and LED running lights as standard, and the rear lights also feature LED technology. The Audi Q5 is 4.63 meters (15.19 feet) long, 1.88 meters (6.17 feet) wide and 1.65 meters (5.41 feet) high, giving it the sportiest proportions in the segment.

The Audi Q5 comes to the Indian market with two powerful engines – one petrol (2.0 TFSI) and one diesel (3.0 TDI). Both of them are direct injection units with turbocharging, beefy pulling power and impressive fuel efficiency. The new 2.0 TFSI with Audi valvelift system has a maximum power output of 155 kW (211 hp) and speeds up to 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds. The 3.0 TDI is the most powerful engine in the range with 176 kW (240 hp) and 500Nm of torque. It speeds up from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds with a top speed of 225 km/h.

For these engines Audi has developed a new generation of the dynamic S tronic – the innovative dual-clutch transmission now has seven gears. Being a performance SUV, the Audi Q5 drives with sporty precision and unwavering stability, with a climbing performance of a staggering 31 degrees.

The Audi Q5 combines technology with luxury. The standard and optional equipment includes the Audi driver information system, the MMI (Multi Media Interface), xenon plus headlights with LED technology, Bang & Olufsen surround sound, a DVD player, Rear Seat Entertainment, 3-Zone automatic air conditioning, cruise control, an acoustic parking system with rearview camera and many additional features.

The Audi Q5 range starts at INR 3,829,000 for the 2.0 TFSI and INR 4,419,000 for the 3.0 TDI (ex-showroom Mumbai) and will be offered in six exciting colors: Stratos Blue, Garnet Red, Ice Silver, Meteor Grey, Phantom Black and Ibis White.

The new Audi Q5 will be available along with the entire Audi model range comprising the new Audi A6, Audi A8, Audi Q7, Audi A4, Audi TT and the super sports car Audi R8 from June 4th, 2009 onwards at 11 dealerships across the country: in Delhi, Gurgaon, Chandigarh, Ludhiana, Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai and Kochi.