The entire presentation contains huge volumes of info about the Nano. Only the most important slides have been displayed  below in the form of images.

Be warned though, it conveys only Tata’s part of the Nano story.

What we have here is a drawing of the Mk Seven version of the VW Golf. The car looks really striking and at the same time maintaining the family look.

We had carried several articles on the refreshed Mk 6 Golf which went on sale recently, and for some reason VW wants to bring in the all new 7th gen by 2012, a full two years ahead of its scheduled arrival.

Unconfirmed reports claim changes will be a big leap forward, similar to the gigantic jump that the Escort-Focus change brought about by Ford. This is an era of increasing size and weight, and the Mk7 will have a smaller and lighter setup which means lesser power is required to achieve similar performance.

Lighter body panels and a reduction in size combined with Forced Induction TFSI will offer good performance. VW expects majority of sales to come from diesel versions. All the versions will feature DSG gearbox with seven ratios instead of six, in the interest of better fuel economy.

VW has already begun its evaluation program of the Golf in India and we can expect the model to reach here very soon. The new model might look evolutionary but its under the skin where many substantial changes are expected. These changes will define future VW models.

Source- German Car Blog

By Ragav Ramesh

Thus far-

While the buzz has started to create ahead of the launch of 2009 Tata Indigo, IAB has always been the first to get you the latest happenings about the Tata Indigo right from the spy shots to the engine spec and design. Just that the buzz is all around now we thought we would give a short re-cap on what has been the developments happening until now for the latest Indigo from Indian Automobile giant Tata’s.

Design-

We definitely predict that this won’t be an another Swift Dzire with a boot stuck to the India Vista. On the cards there are loads of changes for the new Indigo from the existing one like vertically-stacked taillights, the tapering roof and C-pillar, with a more rakish rear windscreen give the whole car a more cohesive look, without really compromising on rear headroom. While we come into the heart of the car the Indigo 2009 will get FIAT powered 1.4 Litre engine 16 valve twin cam Fiat Petrol motor and a 90 HP Fiat’s Quadrajet motor that comes in the Linea.

Production Facility-

While the car is expected to roll out from the all new state of art body shop and a very modern assembly line in Ranjangoan with highly automated stations for ease of assembly by the line workers with a modern paint shop. As we understand that the Tata’s are struggling to get the QA in place, the new plant is expected to come in handy to overcome this. The paint quality should be on par with foreign brands.

What to expect-

Like the India to Indica Vista we also expect this Tata Indigo 2009 to come in with loads of improvements right from quality, design to the engine. However, we still have a feeling that the Tata has a lot of scope for improvements, and with the Indica/Indigo V4, an Indian car that can take on the Hondas and Toyotas will be born.

IAB will keep you posted on any further developments. Until then stay tuned with IAB.

Mitsubishi plans to launch the Lancer Cargo next year in Japan, which is said to be the rebadged version of Nissan ADvan. The Cargo unlike the misleading name suggests is not only focused to be a parcel van but also to be a spacious Family Station wagon.

‘Delivery Van and Family Station Wagon’

To serve the dual purpose this car comes in various configurations and engine options. The car has 2WD and 4WD facility and engine options vary from 1.2L & 1.6L Petrol engines to 1.5L & 1.8L Diesel engines with a standard 4-speed automatic transmission. All the above engine configurations are said to be highly fuel efficient while meeting all 2010 emission norms.

• High levels of safety with its high-strength body structure and optimum brake force distribution and car control is possible with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution)being standard.

• With SRS airbags in both front seats and three-point seat belt ELR expression for the rear seats – passenger injury is minimised in case of a crash.

• The car’s price ranges from Rs. 7 Lakhs to Rs. 10Lakhs equivalent in the Japanese market.

Ford-Mazda is set to debut its all-new Ford Fiesta sedan and hatchback at the Guangzhou auto show this week in China. According to a sales executive of the joint venture, the new Ford Fiesta will hit the China market in early 2009 and rumors are floating that Indian entry is only months away from the Chinese launch date.

First things first and we find its not all that pretty. It has lost all the charm and character of the hatchback that made it such a hit. The addition of some luggage space might have made it practical for developing market like ours but the prettiness of the hatchback is all gone and this is sad news.

Hatchbacks are not meant to be converted to sedans and this must be a rule. The Dzire is so hideous and this one is very close to that (but then this is Ford and hence they have done a better job compared to Maruti). Viewed from the rear three-quarters, the Fiesta looks downside ugly. The wheels are too small and the rising window line doesn’t help matters either. It will sell in India though, if it had a diesel engine and came at a good price.

The New Ford Fiesta will hold its global appeal because of its dynamic features created by the bold “kinetic design.” Ford’s acclaimed dynamics engineers responsible for fine-tuning the Focus and Mondeo model’s driving dynamics have worked extensively to enhance Fiesta’s ride comfort and to give the new model an impressively quiet driving quality.

2009 Ford Fiesta Image gallery

The New Fiesta is Ford’s third model of “kinetic design” after the S-MAX and Mondeo. It is based on Ford’s B2 platform that underpins the latest Mazda 2. Its Chinese production might have started in 2008 at Changan Ford Mazda Auto’s plant in Nanjing. The China-made New Fiesta is likely to carry 1.4L and 1.6L Duratec engines.

In the French market, Europe Ford has recently announced the price of its new Fiesta models, which will sell for an equivalent of 120,000 yuan (Rs 8lakh) to 140,000 yuan (Rs 10 lakh). The Chinese-made new Ford Fiesta will be available to local buyers at a lower price early next year. Its launch was originally slated for December this year, but delayed due to the financial crisis. Amid China’s auto market slowdown, the sales of Changan Ford Mazda in 2008 hold little hope for optimism. In the first nine months, the joint venture saw its sales grow by a meager 6%, far from the 58% as expected at the beginning of the year when the company set the yearly sales target at 192,000 units.

One of the urgent problems for Changan Ford Masda to address now is how to make a breakthrough in the sluggish market segment of compact sedans in China by promoting the locally made new Ford Fiesta as a heavyweight model. “We set out to design a truly exciting, desirable small car that exceeds all expectations,” said Chelsia Lau, chief designer of China/ASEAN Programs, Ford Motor Company. “Today, we are keeping our promise that was made with the Verve Concept notchback last year. “The all-new Fiesta sedan is sleek and contemporary,” added Lau. “The interpretation of kinetic design on the four-door body has given the Fiesta sedan an independent identity while retaining the emotional appeal of its five-door sibling.”

Fiesta sedan will be available to Chinese consumers in a matter of months thanks to it being manufactured at Ford’s new, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Nanjing, China. “This Fiesta writes the next chapter in our small car success story and builds on the widespread appeal of the Ford brand in China,” commented Robert Graziano, president and CEO, Ford Motor China. “Style-aware Chinese consumers will appreciate the uniqueness of this car that expresses their individuality, style and
aspirations.”

Ford’s Chinese operations promise the same advanced manufacturing technologies as its European counterpart will enjoy, with a body structure made from high- and ultra high-strength steel for added rigidity for better handling and impact absorption, plus reduced weight and enhanced fuel efficiency. While the Fiesta shown in these photos has been specifically tailored for the Chinese market, it’s a near duplicate to the North American-bound four-door Fiesta expected in 2010, produced in Mexico. Ford also has a plant in Thailand allocated for Fiesta production. While it’s not known if the five-door Fiesta will make it to North America, the four-door will certainly be sold in Europe.

“Launching the all-new Fiesta sedan to the world in China signals the importance of China and the Asian
region in Ford’s global strategy,” said John Parker, executive vice president, Asia Pacific and Africa, Ford
Motor Company. “This is a sophisticated small car. Design combines with advanced technology to deliver
very high levels of refinement, safety and class-leading fuel efficiency. This new Fiesta proves Ford’s
leadership in small car design and development.”

While the new Fiesta will bolster Ford’s overseas operations, the automaker and its dealers need this car in
North America now. Why them and why not India? Ford!, are you listening?

Source : Auto in car

Renault has released the new-generation Thalia (Symbol in some markets). The French automaker’s low-cost sedan is based on a stretched version of the Clio hatchback’s platform and this is Renault’s strategy to compete in developing markets such as India.

One look and you are convinced that it does shares a lot in common with the Logan in the styling. department which features expressive, flowing lines. It is just a step up on the Logan and it exudes an elegance that is underpinned by the status-enhancing design of its front end, as well as by its harmonious styling which is worthy of that of a prestigious saloon. Inside, the driver and passengers will appreciate the comfortable, carefully-appointed cabin. When launched, it will go head to head with the Linea, SX4, Honda City, Fiesta and others.

The range of sprightly petrol and diesel engine is at the market`s leading edge when it comes to low fuel consumption, while the suspension and running gear will be tuned to operate on Indian road conditions

Elegant, status-enhancing lines

New Renault Symbol is a new three-box car that boasts expressive lines and seductive appeal. Its length of 4.26m and height of 1.43m ensure nicely balanced proportions, while the design of the headlamps emphasizes the front end`s status enhancing styling. The harmonious side view is that of a prestigious saloon, while the robust lines of the rear are also suggestive of status. The presence of chrome trimming for the grille and rear panel adds a further note of refined distinction, which is sure too appeal to Indian customers. The newcomer`s seductive appeal and perceived quality are immediately apparent inside the cabin, too. New Renault Symbol also provides generous boot space which is as ideally suited for that holiday.

Economical to run and excellent roadholding

New Renault Symbol is powered by a range of latest-generation engines, all of which combine performance, low fuel consumption and respect for the environment. These powerplants – whether petrol or diesel – are the most fuel efficient of this three-box car`s category and make it truly economical to run. Expect outstanding fuel efficiency figures as the engine is likely to remain a power-boosted versions of the Logan’s 1.5 DCi and the 1.6 Petrol to keep up with an increase in size.

The front end`s distinguishing appearance point to the vehicle`s amazing on-road performance and travelling comfort. New Renault Symbol advantages from the same suspension as Clio II which is highly rated for the quality of the balance it strikes between comfort and roadholding and the quiet ride it delivers.

According to Renault, it will be sold in Central and Eastern Europe, Russia, Turkey and the Maghreb (Northern Africa) countries along with markets in Asia, especially India.

IAB Comment- We say it is a very good move by Renault as this model will take it slightly upmarket before its other famous models like the brilliant new Megane and the Clio come to India to further boost its image. Renault proved with the Logan that Indian customers are oriented towards practicality when choosing a car and this car is expected to be very comfortable and will be a very good choice for the people in this segment who prefer practicality over sublime looks or sportiness, just like the Renault Logan.

The good part is that, it will be making its Indian debut, maybe in towards the end of 2009 or early 2010 at around 8-lakh rupees.

2009 Renault Thalia/Symbol Image Gallery

Source : Renault

Sandero Stepway based on Logan's platform

Renault knows how to spawn multiple cars from the same platform. Dont agree? Well then, have a look at their upcoming cars- the Sandup based on the Sandero’s platfrom or even the Sandero Stepway. We think that both represent the same mini-SUV based on the Logan platfrom which was displayed as a concept and is expected make its debut soon. This is a good example of platform sharing wherein the Logan platform has been used to make a variety of vehicles, conceived by Dacia. One more model to come out of the same platform is the Sand’Up. More on this later.

Built at Renault’s Curitiba plant in Brazil, the five-passenger Stepway will go on sale in the Brazil market in October, with Argentinean sales to follow shortly after that. The company also is studying whether to offer the Stepway in other markets where the Logan is built and sold, including India and Russia.

The “urban sport” derivative of the Logan/Sandero (code name B0) features a higher ground clearance, roof bars, an integrated spoiler, exclusive grille and bumpers, plus a chrome tailpipe. At the start of production, the only engine will be a 112-horsepower 1.6-liter four-cylinder unit that is programmed to run on bioethanol. In Argentina, the Stepway will be offered with a 1.5-liter common-rail turbodiesel engine.

Read on for details on the Sand’up

SAND’UP

Renault unveiled at the Sao Paolo auto salon from Brazil, the Sand’up Concept based on the Sandero Stepway. The Sand’up is a 2+2 modular model: it can be either a coupe, but can also be converted into a convertible pick-up.

The Sand’up is the perfect car for four-passengers who wants to enjoy a trip into a convertible pick-up. The car sits on 18 inches wheels.

The Concept is powered by a 1.6 liter 16V Hi-Flex engine that delivers 107 hp when run on petrol and 112 hp when working on ethanol. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 10.6 s (petrol) / 10.5 s (ethanol).

IAB Comment- The Sand’up is certain to be a hit if it gets to India as the tough guy looks and car-like handling are sure to go down well with Indian customers. The versatility it offers as either a coupe or a pickup truck cannot be neglected. This will be more like a lifestyle product and has all the essential attributes to be a junior Scorpio in the Mahindra-Renault showroom. As it is a Sandero/Dacia product just like the Logan, It will also come at a reasonable price which is a bonus.

Folks over ar Blograzy have gotten hold of the picture gallery of Suzuki’s latest 150 cc motorcycle, the GS150R. The motorcycle is not yet present in the market, but was unveiled before Diwali to get the spectators chatting and media buzzing.

The Suzuki GS150R is powered with a 149cc engine which develops 13.8bhp of peak power at 8500rpm and 13.4Nm of peak torque 6000rpm. It is mated to a six speed transmission. Fuel will be fed to the engine via a carburetor as opposed to earlier reports which said the GS150R will be fuel injected.

The digital console looks clear and neat and comprises of the digital speedometer, digital fuel meter, digital trip distance meter, digital gear position and the power/economy mode (similar to what TVS has been offering on bikes like the Victor and the Scooty). The two-stripe brake light premieres on the GS150R and the 6-speed transmission is being offered for the first time in the 150 cc segment.

Attractive facets on this bike are the gas charged shock absorbers and the 15.50-liter fuel tank, both supplementing to the conveniency aspect of the bike. Maximum speed is around about 120 k’s and the 45-50 kmpl (City), 50-55 kmpl (highway) fuel consumption figures gives you additional reasoning as to why you should not invest in the Pulsar or the CBZ.

Both the Heat and the Zeus were comfy bikes. The riding position and aptly-positioned handle bars implied the Suzuki engineers favored comfort over looks. Likewise, the GS15OR’s wide and well scooped out seats should offer good comfort for long distance cruising as should the handle bars.

Specification sheet and price details after the jump

Specification of Suzuki GS150R:

• Displacement: 149cc
• Engine: Four Stroke, Single Cylinder, SOHC, Air cooled
• Maximum Power: 13.8 Bhp @ 8500rpm
• Maximum Torque: 13.4 Nm @ 6000rpm
• Gears: 6 Manual, 1-down and  5-up.
• Valve Per Cylinder: 2
• Top Speed: 120kmph (estimated)
• Carburetor Type : BS26 – Throttle Positioning Sensor
• Suspension(Front): Hydraulics forks
• Suspension(Rear): Gas charged
• Brakes (front): Disc
• Brakes(rear): 130mm Drum
• Fuel Consumption: 45-50 kmpl (City), 50-55 kmpl (highway)
• Fuel Tank: 15.50 litres
• Headlamp: Multi-Reflector Halogen Bulb
• Colors: Pearl Nebular Black, Metallic Flint Gray, Candy Max Orange, Candy Dark Greenish Blue

DIMENSIONS:

• Length: 2095.00 mm
• Width: 775.00 mm
• Height: 1120.00 mm
• Ground Clearance: 160.00 mm
• Wheelbase: 1340.00 mm
• Wheel Type: Die Cast Alloys
• Wheel Size: 70/R18 (F), 100/90/R18 (R)

PRICE: Rs 59,000 (ex-showroom Delhi)

Source- Blograzy