Maruti Celerio records 14,000 bookings in 2 weeks

Jaipur: Maruti Suzuki that launched the much-anticipated Celerio hatchback at the recently held 2014 Auto Expo, has received an overwhelming response from buyers across the nation. Advance bookings for Celerio cross 14000 within 2 weeks from Launch - Recorded 1000 bookings a day.


What makes it more interesting that the AMT version of Celerio gets better response from buyers as compared to its manual variants. The AMT Celerio accounts for 51 per cent of total bookings; this has been for the first time that any Auto variant of car is more on demand than the manual. However, it leads to increase in its waiting period, as the company imports this AMT gearbox.

Nissan X-Trail and 370Z Coupe to be discontinued in India

Nissan today announced that it will discontinue the sales of the X-Trail SUV and 370Z coupe in India. The move comes in the wake of Nissan’s decision to focus on its locally manufactured models. However, it will continue to sell the Teana luxury sedan.

In India, Nissan has been constantly expanding its innovative and exciting product range, and will continue to deliver cutting-edge technology, distinctive design and a rewarding experience to all its customers. Terrano, Nissan’s latest offering marks its entry in the growing compact SUV segment.

Hyundai Intrado concept images revealed

Mumbai: Hyundai will showcase the Intrado at the Geneva Motor Show next week and now the company has revealed the images of this crossover concept. The Intrado is the updated version of the Fluidic Sculpture that the Korean automaker has been using throughout its range.  The Intrado has second-generation fuel cell technology and it also has the advanced carbon fibre-plastic structure. The concept is a two-door and can seat four people.

This new concept has been designed and built at the Hyundai Technical Centre based in Frankfurt. Beneath is the carbon fibre plastic structure and outside it gets steel panels.  This is about 70 percent lighter than the conventional steel body

Fiat to unveil new Panda Cross and Freemont Cross in Geneva

Jaipur: Italian carmaker Fiat has announced its lineup for the upcoming 2014 Geneva Motor Show. The company will present the world debut of the Panda Cross and Freemont Cross at the show.

The Panda Cross also offers some AWD features for off-roaders. Its 'Terrain Control' has three different driving modes- AUTO, LOCK and HILL DESCENT.

AUTO - Automatic distribution of drive between the two axles in accordance with the grip of the road surface
LOCK - The four-wheel drive is always active for optimal off-road use, with distribution of torque among the four wheels, braking the wheels that are losing grip (or slip more than the others), and thus transferring the drive to those with the most grip.
HILL DESCENT - For optimum handling of particularly steep hill descents or when going down extremely bumpy routes.

The front fascia of the Panda Cross features a new bumper, which boasts a generous skid plate in a satin titanium colour with a design of holes which reinterprets the Panda's characteristic "squircle" motif. Tow hooks with an immediately recognisable new design in a brilliant red place emphasis on its off-road character. It gets new headlights and new fog lights integrated with the logo holder bonnet trim, and new DRLs with LED technology, built into the skid plate. The 15" alloy wheels sport a 5-spoke V design and a burnished metal finish.

Two engine versions are available, both with Start&Stop standard and boasting higher performance than the versions on the Panda 4x4: the 80 HP 1.3 MultiJet II turbodiesel and 90 HP 0.9 TwinAir Turbo petrol, the latter with specific 6-speed transmission with shortened first gear.

Three Hyundai i20s to participate in Rally de Portugal

Mumbai: Eager to accelerate its learning curve in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC), Hyundai Motorsport has today announced that three Hyundai i20 WRC cars will be entered into Rally de Portugal, round four of the 2014 FIA World Rally Championship, in April.

The team’s lead driver Thierry Neuville will continue in his role behind the wheel of the #7 car, whilst Finn Juho Hänninen will drive the #8 Hyundai i20 WRC after a promising performance at Rally Sweden earlier this month.

After his debut for the team at Monte-Carlo back in January, Neuville and Hänninen will be joined on the Portuguese event by Spaniard Dani Sordo driving the Hyundai i20 WRC #20.

The Alzenau-based team has also announced its participation in the Fafe Rally Sprint, the now traditional event organised as a precursor to Rally de Portugal. The one-day event will be held on Saturday 29th March at the iconic Fafe-Lameirinha stage – which was part of the classic Rally de Portugal – and attracts hundreds of thousands of spectators each year.

Team Principal Michel Nandan commented: “Having three cars at Rally de Portugal will be very positive for us and it will allow us to continue our data collection and to accumulate more mileage in our debut WRC season. I think we have a good line-up for Portugal with Thierry, Juho and Dani – each of them will bring their experience and will give us their own unique feedback which will help us in the continuous development of the Hyundai i20 WRC. Thierry’s level of performance combined with Juho’s skills on gravel and Dani’s experience and excellent track record at Rally de Portugal make them a very good choice for the event,” he said.

Upcoming Tata Cars to get Automated Manual transmissions; details inside

Jaipur: Tata has unveiled two of its most important cars- Tata Bolt and Zest, in India. One being a hatchback, and other positioned in the compact sedan segment; both had gathered lot of attention during the unveiling event. As far as their launch is concerned, both of these are expected to hit the Indian roads by mid 2014. Tata Motors had also displayed Tata Nano Twist at the Expo, which is yet to arrive in the Indian market. The concept model of Nano Twist featured several unique attributes like an openable tailgate, new grille representing Tata's new identity-the humanity line, EPAS with new steering wheel, new bonnet and others in the list. The talk of the town is the all-new F-Tronic technology with which all of these aforementioned Tata cars have shown up. With this, Tata enters with all-together next generation in transmissions, that would simply woo the drivers at very first experience. This is certainly going to be a step ahead with driving experience, combined with an enjoyful ride. Out of all these recently unveiled cars, the compact sedan, Tata Zest, which is the outcome of Karl Slym's exquisite vision and able leaderships, has been introduced with F-tronic technology enabled, 5-speed automated manual transmission. As such, there isn't any competition against Zest by now in India. But, Maruti is another brand stepped in the hatchback segment with AMT enabled Celerio in the market.

Lets just make a comprehensive study of Tata's most discussed F-Tronic technology in detail-
The next-generation transmission as claimed, is all about clutch-free driving, and feather-light and smooth finger gear shifting. Most interestingly, the technology is developed in collaboration with Italy based, Magnetic Marelli; the popular name behind supplying transmission for Formula 1 motorsports cars.

Porsche asks 911 GT3 owners to stop driving

Jaipur: Porsche has advised its 911's range topper track inspired GT3 variant owners to park their car until further notice, following two events of engine bay catching fire. The German automaker intents the owners to stop using there cars until final investigation is concluded.

Porsche sold all 785 unit of 2014 911 GT3 worldwide and two vehicles reportedly set ablaze; both were from Europe. According to the initial press release by the manufacturer, both the vehicles recorded engine damage. Although no human and property loss was seen in both the incidents.

The engineers at Porsche are identifying the cause of the problem as they are inspecting the engines of 2014 edition of GT3. The company also assured that it will report immediately if anything solid comes up in the analysis. The company also notified that the impending deliveries will get a slight delay, owing to the extensive investigation going on. The company is also offering pick-up service for the affected vehicle from owner's home to Porsche center immediately.

Audi's new Armour A3; next big thing in India

Jaipur: This year is going to witness a flurry of luxury car launches from 'The Big Three'; Mercedes-Benz, Audi and BMW. It promises to be the fiercest competition ever to gain the pole position in India's luxury car segment. With over 10,000 units sold last year, Audi India became the country's numero uno luxury car maker. What made it more interesting was that Audi didn't introduce a single new product in its portfolio last year, yet it managed to outsmart its two rivals

The time has changed, Mercedes-Benz and BMW seem aggressive with their strategies and are ready with a series of new cars and facelifts for the Indian market. Audi India, too, felt a need of new product to counter the other two. While Mercedes-Benz and BMW are betting on their premium hatchbacks, Audi opts for different path to capture the major chunk of luxury car segment in India. Like Mercedes-Benz and BMW, Audi already has A1 premium hatchback which is currently on sale in several international markets. However, the company gambled on A3 compact premium sedan for the Indian market. In simple words we can say that like Mercedes opened a new segment with A-Class, Audi is all set to start a new segment with its A3.

New Nissan X-Trail, Qashqai and e-NV200 to debut at Geneva Motor Show

Jaipur: Japanese carmaker Nissan has announced its lineup to be unveiled at the 84th Geneva Motor Show. The company will further enhance its crossover lineup by introducing the all-new Qashqai and the new X-Trail. Adding to it, the company will also debuts the zero-emissions e-NV200 and the GT-R Nismo at the show.

The all-new X-Trail combines advanced 4x4 capabilities with a host of design and engineering features that have become hallmarks of Nissan crossovers. It comes equipped with several advanced features such as bi-LED headlamps, Nissan Safety Shield and a fully-integrated third-generation NissanConnect navigation and infotainment system.

Built on the Renault-Nissan Alliance Common Module Family platform, the all-new X-Trail also offers significantly improved practicality, with a new ‘theatre-style' seating layout, sliding second row of seats and fully-integrated third row of seats with improved leg and headroom.

Volkswagen Golf gets new GTE variant

Jaipur: Volkswagen has unveiled the first pictures of the Golf GTE – a new plug-in hybrid version of the multi-award-winning Golf hatchback that combines the benefits of electric mobility with the dynamics of a Golf GTI.



The Golf GTE is due to make its debut at the Geneva Motor Show next month. It provides the fifth variety of drive type for the Golf, which is now available with petrol, diesel, natural gas (not in the UK), electric and hybrid power. The name of the Golf GTE reflects its position in the line-up alongside the iconic petrol-powered GTI and the diesel GTD. Where ‘GT’ stands for ‘Gran Tourismo’, ‘I’ stands for ‘Injection’, ‘D’ for Diesel and ‘E’ for Electricity.

The Golf GTE is driven by two engines: a 1.4-litre 150 PS TSI direct-injection petrol engine and a 102 PS electric motor. Together, they combine to produce power of 204 PS and a theoretical range of around 580 miles. Using the electric motor alone, the GTE is capable of speeds of 130kph. With the TSI engine as well, the Golf GTE can sprint from zero to 100kph in 7.6 seconds and on to 217kph. Torque is a remarkable 350Nm.

In pure electric mode (activated at the press of a button), the Golf GTE can travel up to 31 miles, depending on conditions, and the electric power can also be saved – for example when driving to a zero-emissions zone. The 8.8 kWh lithium-ion battery can be charged in around three and a half hours from a domestic mains outlet, or two and a half hours from a domestic wallbox. The battery weighs 120 kg, giving the GTE a total kerbweight of 1,520 kg.

The Golf GTE uses a six-speed DSG gearbox with a triple-clutch system specially developed for hybrid vehicles. The electric motor is integrated into the gearbox housing, while further hybrid components include power electronics and a charger. An electro-mechanical brake servo and an electric air conditioning compressor make for energy-efficient braking and air conditioning.

Cars get cheaper, Sunny, Fiesta and Linea facelifts coming soon

Jaipur: Fiat will be launching the facelift Linea on the 4th of March. The upgraded Linea gets a major revamp on its instrument panel. The exterior also gets a refreshed look too. The Linea facelift will be launched on the 4th of March. Just like the Linea, even the Ford Fiesta and the Nissan Sunny will receive facelifts. The Sunny gets a new front grille and bigger headlamps, while the rear also gets a major overhaul. On the inside it gets piano black interiors, new music system with Bluetooth connectivity and even leather seats.

Budget cut meant a reduction in car prices. This makes the buyers happy and this will certainly help the stagnated automotive industry to grow once again. Most of the manufacturers have passed on the benefit to the customers. On the other hand, Ford is working on increasing its touch base in India as it further expands its dealership network. The company now has 304 facilities in 164 Indian cities.

Mahindra is planning to roll out its flagship SUV, XUV 500, with an automatic transmission by the second half of 2015. The newly developed 6-speed AT gearbox would be sourced from Ssangyong, which is also a part of Mahindra group. Ssangyong's ongoing automatic gear boxes are out of fashion Mercedes-Benz gearboxes

Manu Saale new Head of Research and Development for Daimler

Jaipur: Manu Saale has been appointed as the new Managing Director and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Research and Development in India. Scheduled to take over from the 1st of April 2014, he would be replacing Dr. Jens Cattarius the current Managing Director and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Research and Development who is said to take on a new role in the R&D centre in Stuttgart/Germany.

“With Manu Saale, being multilingual and Indian-born, we appointed an international expert and global player at the head of MBRDI. We are confident that the transferring of important specific know-how and expertise within Daimler R&D will further solidify MBRDI’s position as a strong player of Daimler’s global RD-network. We are committed to India and underline our confidence to this important growth market for Daimler. I am wishing both Dr. Jens Cattarius and Manu Saale all the best for their new assignments and thank both for their strong contributions and commitment to our company”, commented Prof. Dr. Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler, responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development.

In his address, he also expressed his sincere thanks to Dr. Cattarius for his commitment and achievements within the last three years, where MBRDI anchored itself within Daimler’s global R&D network and steadily grew to become the largest facility outside Germany.

2014 Skoda Superb Facelift Photo Gallery

Skoda Auto India has finally introduced the facelift version of its flagship seda, Superb at Rs. 18.87 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). The sedan receives changes to both the exterior and interior. The front fascia gets a new butterfly grille, Octavia-like bumper, and new Bi-Xenon headlamps with integrated daytime running lamps. The rear profile gets a newly designed taillamp and the number plate is now moved up to bootlid from bumper. For our readers, we brings you the live images of the Superb facelift sedan directly from the launch venue.

New Maruti Swift Sport unveiled at Auto Expo

India’s largest carmaker, Maruti Suzuki has unveiled the sportier version of its flagship hatchback, Swift at the Auto Expo.  Christened as Swift Sport, the vehicle was recently launched in the Indonesian market.  It is expected that Maruti could introduce the sportier version of Swift to make its presence felt in the hot hatch segment.

The new Swift Sport has an aggressive and eminent look. The front fascia sports new grille which is integrated with big and distinguished finned fog-lamp bezels. Its high-intensity discharge headlamps with a metallic-Grey coating and newly designed rear combination lamps with a cylindrical design.

Honda Mobilio MPV unveiled

With Mobilio MPV, the Japanese carmaker Honda has entered into country’s growing compact MPV segment. Based on the Brio platform, the vehicle will be made available in both petrol and diesel guise. It will compete against the likes of Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, Nissan Evalia and Chevy Enjoy. The front facade of the MPV gets the thick horizontal slat chrome grille, round fog lamps, aggressive bonnet, fog lamps comes fitted in a matte black casing. The side profile feature prominent line and 15-inch wheels. Its rear appears different from the Amaze, as it sports new taillamps, wrap-around looks and attractive lines. For readers, CarDekho has latest images of the new Honda Mobilio directly from the pan-India motor show.

New Honda Jazz in all-new avatar

Honda India has finally unveiled the all-new Honda Jazz in India. The product already made its debut in several international markets. It is a step forward to extend company’s product lineup, as well as pitching the ‘Jazz brand’ identity well in India. Keeping this in mind, Honda has come up with all-new 3rd generation Jazz that is intended to bring about major changes in the premium hatchback segment. It bounds several new attributes like never before spacious interiors, next level of comfort and performance and a fun-to-drive model, is all ready to launch in India in the near future. Moreover, for the first time it is being offered with both petrol and diesel guises. Earlier, the absence of diesel firepower had been considered as one of the factor responsible for negative growth of Honda Jazz in the market. Adding on to this, the high prices of the car also affected the graph of this particular Honda model in the local market. So, this time around, the new Jazz is being symbolized as a complete package that bounds Honda’s several innovative technology concepts in it. Let’s make a brief differentiation between the obsolete model of Jazz and the newly arrived one.