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Friday, 29 July 2011

SUVs UNDER BUDGET


Looking for a 6-8 seater car in India in a price range of 6-13lakhs? Then read this 
article.

There are limitless options available in the Indian SUV market which is dominated by the Indian car manufacturers and they offer many options from SUVs to MUVs etc... It is largely dominated by the MAHINDRA BOLERO due to its ever rising rural 
demand…

let’s start with the

MAHINDRA

BOLERO :



What more can I say about this car? It’s rugged, made to serve only one purpose… “To move people from one place to another in places like the rural (real) India. It has barely changed since I was born. A very basic car with basic features. Though the urban population has ignored this car, this car still, has the throne of the highest sales in MUV, SUV market. It offers many many types of bodies, I can’t even remember how many!
SOME SPECS:

a.      Prices: Rs. 5,78,007 - Rs. 6,80,284

b.   Engine options: 2.5L DI Turbo Diesel producing 64bhp @3200rpm and torque of 180nm@1500rpm, and 2. 2.49L CRDe producing 98bhp @3800rpm and torque of 255nm@1800rpm

GOOD FOR:

1.     Ruggedness of the car, take it anywhere and I’ll not disappoint you.
2.     Cost of maintenance is barely present.

3.     Practicality of use in the harsh places where the term “road” ceases to exists.

4.     It’s like a jeep, only with more space to carry more stuffs and people around
5.     The most cheapest SUV In India!

      Throw the car in any deep potholes, even if you manage to bump it, it will not cost you a fortune when repairing.

BAD FOR:

1.     No practicality in the urban areas, there are many soft-roaders to take its place.
2.     Engine, fails to impress when driven on the road.

3.     Get inside the car and the space and refinement, feel of a big car will not be there 
because its poorly designed, or should I say, not at all designed!

4.     Impossible to maneuver in traffic.


        XYLO:



This is Mahindra’s attempt to fill the void between the Bolero and Scorpio. It has been placed with the arch rival Toyota innova. On the looks department, it might not impress everyone but step inside the car and it easily impresses the critics with the seating space and feel and the well laid out design. It feels very modern from inside. The engine is good, and the refinement though is a li’l less than that of the innova, but the height of the seats makes you feel like sitting in a much bigger 
SUV! Everything else is decent and impressive, so to conclude, it’s a gr8 car to buy!

SOME SPECS:


a.      Prices: Rs. 7,09,452 - Rs. 9,35,464

b.     Engine: (2.5 ltr mDI CRDe 4 Cylinder, Inline, Turbocharged producing 96bhp @3600rpm and 220nm torque @1400rpm) and (2.5ltr mEagle producing 114bhp @3800rpm and torque of 260nm@1800rpm)

GOOD FOR:

1.     It feels like a much taller innova when inside.

2.     Top notch refinement will highly impress you.

3.     Gr8 pricing also makes it a gr8 deal!

4.     Its Mahindra so no issues with after sales of it.

BAD FOR:

1.     Weird exterior design doesn’t impress many!

2.     Again, the rear design also looks like a trunk pasted on the car.


##NOTE## ALL NEW VERSION OF THE XYLO, WITH ONLY FIVE SEATS COMING SOON!

SCORPIO:



This car is a game changer for them. This SUV is one of the cheapest car to buy and it has more electronics than it’s competitor. Everything is perfect of this car though the modern headlights and front part really gives it a mighty “killer” like stance. Over all, it’s a gr8 SUV to buy and also acclaimed by all the critics. Two diesel engine types are offered, the new 2.2ltr and the old, reworked 2.5ltr engine, which is now tuned for efficiency.
SOME SPECS:

a.      Prices: Rs. 7,32,507 - Rs. 12,29,037

b.     Engine: (2.5ltr M2DI, 4 Stroke, Turbo-Charged, DI Engine producing 71bhp@3200 and 200nm@1800) and (2.2ltr mHawk CRDe, 4 stroke, Turbo charged, DI producing 122bhp@4000 and 290nm@1800)

GOOD FOR:

1.     Scores highly in the looks compartment.
2.     Ask any previous owner, everyone will recommend you this car.
3.     Cheapest to keep and maintain.
      
      BAD FOR:

NONE!

Moving on to the TATAs.

They offer two cars in this segment, one MUV and one SUV.

(MUV) SUMO GRANDE



successor to the SUMO, it has a good designing language, shared by the xenon, but this it’s a gr8 car to look at, it has a 2.2ltr engine, shared with the safari, yet it is somewhat like a cheap version of safari.
SOME SPECS:

a.      Prices: Rs. 5,96,960- Rs. 8,46,783

b.     Engine: (2ltr diesel producing 90bhp and 190nm) and (2.2ltr producing 120bhp and 250nm)

GOOD FOR:

1.     Everything reminds you of the safari.

2.     2nd cheapest car in this segment.

BAD FOR:

1.     Cramped interiors.

2.     Missing x-factors that makes you want to buy it.


(SUV) SAFARI:



Ahh… what can I say.. I think it’s the best Tata ever! Best looking car, best engine in its class, not so costly, and the list is endless…
SOME SPECS:

a.      Prices: Rs. 7,94,078- Rs. 12,65,320

b.     Engine: 2.2ltr diesel producing 140bhp and 320nm

GOOD FOR:

1.     Beast type looks, stands out in the crowd.

2.     Best engine performance.

3.     One of the most comfortable car for long distance.

BAD FOR:

1.     It has Efficiency issues, as the body weight is too much.

2.     Costly car to maintain.

##NOTE##: ALL NEW SAFARI COMIING SOON.

Toyota:


They have had conquered this segment with the qualis, and now the innova.
INNOVA:



You cannot finish your journey without seeing 2-3 innova in every 2-3 kms. Yes, it’s a very popular car, is the 2nd most sold car here thanks to its refinement, Toyota’s brand image and so on… it can easily seat 7 people and can drive them from Delhi to jaipur with ease.

SOME SPECS:

a.      Prices: Rs. 8,40,756-Rs. 12,66,017

b.     Engine: 2.5 Liter producing 102bhp@5600 and 200nm@1400

GOOD FOR:

1.     BEST car to drive.

2.     Best in class refinement.

3.     Gr8 car to be driven in.

 BAD FOR:

1.     Prominent “taxi” image hampers the sales!




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Monday, 11 July 2011

Super cars in India!

Super cars in India!


So what if we don’t have roads suitable for premium cars… so what if we don’t have the traffic conditions to drive in our costly car… we have the guts to drive in India! Where 15 people die every minute, Indian roads are the most unsafe roads in the world… but still we have the guts to drive in such conditions and yes, most of us survive at the end of the day… ;)


Now, if you have 1crore to 5crore rupees to spend on a 2seater or two door sports car, don’t want to import and want to purchase from the company who is India presently, the one you wish to drive on weekends because you are a car freak, you, surprisingly, have more 10 options to choose from.

We have automotive giants, FERRARI, ASTON MARTIN, MERCEDES-BENZ, PORSCHE, MASERATI, ROLLS ROYCE,  AUDI and BMW with their offerings…!!

FERRARI




Ferrari 458 Italia Coupé & Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano Coupe


Yes, Ferrari IS IN INDIA! And they offer two cars! Well they cost somewhere around 2.5crore for the Italia and 3.37crore for the fiorance. Need I say anything about these? All I can do is give u the specs to stare and imagine them…!!
Ø  Top speed: 340KM/HR AND 350KM/HR
Ø  Power: 562bhp@7000rpm and 612bhp @7600rpm
Ø  0-100 km/hr: 3.4seconds and 3.7seconds
Ø  Engine: (4500cc, v-type, 8cylinder) and (6000cc, v-type, 12cylinders)

007’s own sports car, the


ASTON MARTIN




They have entered in India, with their two versions of V8 VANTAGE, the coupe (a car with only 2 doors) and the roadster (the convertible).
Both of them weigh a li’l less then 1.8tonnes, and share a same engine, a 4.4 liter V8 engine producing 426 bhp @ 7300 rpm. And 470nm of torque @ 5000rpm powered by a 6 speed gear box. This car is known for its sound that it produces. And its one of the best sound that one should hear! It can reach a top speed of 290 km/hrs and can touch the triple digit speeds less than 5 seconds (But you won’t get the disappearing color, rockets, ejection seats though… :P) . The coupe is available for a price tag of 1.35 crore for the coupe and 1.45 crore for the convertible version.
Ø  Top speed:290 km/hr
Ø  Power: 426 bhp @ 7300 rpm
Ø  0-100 km/hr: 4.9 seconds
Ø  Engine: 4400cc, v-type, 8 cylinders.




Mercedes- Benz AMG SLS




This car has been resurrected from the history. Remember the gull wing car which had the space frame for the first time in the history of cars?
It has a massive 6.2 liter petrol engine, naturally aspirated engine (with no turbo or superchargers). Still it produces a massive 571bhp that charges the car to reach 100 km/hr in just 3.7 seconds and a top speed of a “electronically limited” 320 km/hr. recently it appeared in the new transformers. Boy it’s a thing to watch. It still has that gull wing type doors that are marvelous! It costs 2.08 crore…!
Ø  Top speed: somewhere around 320-350 km/hr
Ø  Power: 571 bhp @ rpm
Ø  0-100km/hr: 3.7 seconds
Ø  Engine: 6200cc, v-type, 8cylinders.


PORSCHE




They offer 911. With Only one car in its Indian portfolio, it will have a tough time in India, due to the surprising competition list. Yet this car is a gr8 performer. Pricing starts at 1crore and goes on till 1.68crore. The car looks fantastic, its well known for its looks, old, yet pretty. From inside, it’s a German, so expect some good level of pampering inside. Rev the engine to 7000 rpm and you will hear the sweet sweet sound of the engine. Unlike other cars, the handling at high speed is amazing, and pleases all the auto critics. Only thing that confuses the buyers of this car, is the number of options available. We have seven! 911 carrera 4, carrera s, carrera s, targa 4, targa 4s, turbo, turbo cabriolet (convertible). The costliest being the convertible version. All the engines have different power output, so I think Indians will most probably go for the turbo version, so it produces max. 480bhp.
Ø  Top speed: near 300 km/hr
Ø  Power: 470bhp@6000rpm
Ø  0-100km/hr: less than 4.5 seconds
Ø  Engine: 3600cc, flat-6 type, 6cylinders


AUDI




R8, is the car that they offer. It is practically a Lamborghini, as they share engines, transmission. But let’s keep that beauty aside, and focus on the r8. Its radical shape and true sports car like looks make it the most desirable car in the world. I mean just look at it… it looks mean, and powerful, and watch it from the rear view mirrors; it feels like the car is hunting you…!! Audi has done some serious engineering in it, most of the parts are carbon fiber. So yes it weighs very less kgs. Therefore, it reaches a top speed of 300 km/hr +. In India we get 3 versions, 4.2 liter v8 in automatic and manual version and a 5.2liter spyder (convertible) v10 version. The prices start from 1.15crore for the 4.2ltr manual, to 1.44crore for the 5.2liter.
Ø  Top speed: 300km/hr
Ø  Power: 420 – 525bhp
Ø  0-100km/hr: less than 5 seconds
Ø  Engine: (4200cc, v-type, 8 cylinders) and (5200cc, v-type, 10 cylinders)

BENTLEY




CONTINENTAL GT, is the car offered by them. Its more of a gentlemen’s sports car or The one who would want to take a sports car to his work. Its not quite a sports car, as it weighs more than 2tonnes. But from inside, it offers what a true sports car cant even think of, leather seats, premium wood finish. It has a class that no other car offers. But as said, its not a true sports car, its more of a premium sedan, disguised as a sports car! It has a rear seat, so you wont sell it when you have kids! ;) Rs. 1.65 crores is the price of it.
Ø  Top speed: 320 km/hr
Ø  Power: 567bhp@6100rpm
Ø  0-100km/hr: 4.8 seconds
Ø  Engine: 5998cc, w-type, 12cylinders.



MASERATI






GranTurismo and GranCabrio are the offerings in our country… they are quite same, only difference is the convertible top. This has to be the sexiest car of the world. Just look at it! This is what we call “fine Italian designing”. It’s got the looks to kill for. It’s as beautiful as a Ferrari, but whole lot of cheaper than it... It starts from 1.23crore to 1.46crores for the convertible. Get inside, and you’ll be greeted with all leather interiors. It has two engine options available, a 4.2liter and a 4.7liter engine.
Ø  Top speed: 295 km/hr
Ø  Power: 400bhp@7100rpm
Ø  0-100km/hr: under 5 and half seconds.
Ø  Engine: (4200cc, v-type, 8 cylinders) and ( 4700cc, v-type, 8 cylinders)



ROLLS ROYCE





Phantom coupé This car is the big daddy of all super cars, literally! From the massive engine, weight, interior, REFINEMENT, basically everything!step inside, and you will think that it is a 1st class private jet. Top gear, has termed the car “highly paid assassin” because at that price of 4crore, it is not a car to race in , but step on highways, and it will surely impress you with the BIG v12 engine burning inside it. Don’t even care to ask about the mileage. Pls! (:D) and you know what, at a speed of 100km/hr, all you hear is the clock on the dash board!!!!!
Ø  Top speed: 250km/hr
Ø  Power: 453bhp@5300rpm
Ø  0-100 km/hr: under 6seconds.
Ø  Engine:6800cc, v-type, 12 cylinders.


-stealthracer

Sunday, 3 July 2011

Hatchbacks in India


Hatchbacks in India!
Have a budget of 4-6lakhs? Looking for a hatch back for India? Confused between diesel and petrol engines?


To be honest, this market is flooded with so many options, therefore easily confusing the consumers. And most of them have a 1.2ltr petrol engine of a 1.3ltr diesel engine outsourced from FIAT. A report from a well known survey company concluded that hatchbacks sales amount to 70% of the total sales in Indian automotive sector. So a hatch sells like a cake in India. Maybe this is why all companies are entering in this market. Nearly all companies are offering their products.


So let’s start with the giant, Maruti Suzuki first. Their cars like the swift are very popular and the deliveries presently are on waiting list for more than 1-2months.
MS offers many premium hatches for a prospective buyer. They are:


1WAGON-R:





Now this car nearly makes it to this list. This car is very practical for city use, with the maximum head room, comparable to a SX-4 it can seat up to 4 tall people easily and will move them very conveniently in cities. But it’ll make you nervous when travelling in it in high speeds. The high head room has a very serious negative impact on this car. Due to the high centre of gravity, and comparatively softer suspensions and smaller tires, this could easily turn over when maneuvered on sharp turns at high speeds. Now let’s go through the pricing. It has 3 variants, LX, LXi, VXi. And 3 types of fuel options i.e. PETROL, C.N.G., L.P.G. though it has only a single type of engine which is a  k-tech 1.0ltr (3cylinder) PETROL producing a total power output of  68bhp @6200rpm and 90nm torque@3500rpm, in which they have added a cng of a lpg kit. But the option of the variant of the alternate fuels is only available in LXi model. This car is best if your budget cannot exceed 4.3lakhs. Because you can get that best vxi model for just 4.2lakhs which is a gr8 deal when ABS is also offered along with all the premium options. But if you can exceed your budget by 50 to 70 thousand rupees, you will get better alternatives. This car also fails to provide you with a diesel engine. So it will be a big turn off for diesel car buyers.

PRICE LIST: 3.43-4.28lakhs

DON’T CONSIDER IT BECAUSE:
·         BOX- TYPE EXTERIORS MIGHT NOT PLEASE EVERYONE.
·         NO OPTION OF DIESEL.
·         FEELS VERY LIGHT, THEREFORE, WILL MAKE DRIVER NERVOUS ON HIGH SPEEDS.
CONSIDER A WAGON-R BECAUSE:
·         BIG CAR LIKE CABIN SPACE, CAN EASILY CARRY FOUR 6FT PEOPLE.
·         FEELS VERY LIGHT TO MANUEVER, HELPFUL IN CITIES.
·         IN JUST 4.3LAKH, YOU CAN GET THE TOP END VERSION, WITH ABS (OPTIONAL, BUT RECOMMENDED!)


2.    RITZ:



This car looks, feels modern in all aspects. From the similar ‘swift-like’ front look to the “BOOMARANG DESIGN” in the rear (which will be a big turn off for some people), speaks of SUZUKI’S hard work that they have put in when designing this car. It shares its platform, as well as the engines with the swift. Though its not as sporty as the swift, as it is tuned for the city conditions. The suspensions are light, which means that they will absorb more bumps on the roads and only few; big bumps will be transferred to the cabin. But if pushed hard in the corners, it will respond very quickly, therefore, you will not feel as comfortable pushing this car to its limits when compared to the swift. The prices are nearly the same as the swift, and it offers you petrol as well as a diesel engine option. Now if you cannot wait to buy a swift( due to its never ending waiting list), and can compromise on the looks, and want similar feel of that of a swift, then this car is highly recommended.

PRICE LIST: 4.12-5.47lakhs

DON’T CONSIDER IT BECAUSE:
·         REAR END “BOOMARANG” LOOK MIGHT BE AN ISSUE FOR SOME
·         PERFORMANCE CANNOT BE COMPARED TO A SWIFT.
·         IT HAS THE SAME PRICE BRACKET AS A SWIFT, SO WHY NOT JUST BUY A SWIFT?
CONSIDER IT BECAUSE:
·         WELL, THE WAITING PERIOD OF THE SWIFT IF, IS UNBEARABLE, AND IF YOU WANT TO BUY A SUZUKI HATCH, THEN THIS CAR IS RECOMMENDED
·         HONESTLY, I FEEL THIS IS ONE OF THE GOOD LOOKING SUZUKI IN THE MARKET.
·         A BRILLENT ALTERNATIVE FOR THE SWIFT.


3.   SWIFT:


I think this car doesn’t needs an introduction in India. It is, after all, the most preferred MARUTI SUZUKI. If you still need an introduction, then I’ll just say that this car has a waiting period of more than 2-3months all over the country. Yes, its very famous, and guess what… a new, better, meaner version is around the corner, waiting for the festival season (possible) for its launch! Now, this car is known worldwide for its handling, and rev-happy engine (petrol). This car will perfectly feed your appetite for some action. Be it drags, cornering, overtaking, and the sound that it produces when red-lined… the list is endless... Although I will not recommend you to buy it as of now! This is because, I would suggest you to wait for it and buy the newer version instead…!!

PRICE LIST:4.32-5.64lakhs

DON’T CONSIDER IT BECAUSE:
·         HUGE WAITING LIST
·         BORING INTERIORS
·         A NEW, BETTER VERSION ABOUT TO BE LAUNCHED DURING THE FESTIVALS.
CONSIDER IT BECAUSE:
·         THE BEST SUZUKI YET. PROVEN WORLDWIDE!
·         POPULAR FOR ITS HANDLING AND CONTROL OF THE TRACK.
·         REV HAPPY ENGINE, YOU WILL LOVE TO RED-LINE IT...
·         18KMS + MILEAGE OF THE DIESEL ENGIINE, MAKING IT ONE OF THE MOST FRUGAL CARS IN INDIA.




NOW LETS TALK ABOUT FIAT:
They presently offer only one car that fits this category, which is the:

GRANDE PUNTO.



Let us start from outside in, this time… ;)
The exterior is totally radical, doesn’t hurts eyes when seen from any angle, thanks to its Italian designing. It totally stands out in the crowd, and when bought in wine red color, will surely turn some heads! But the Indian version is very underpowered, with small petrol 1.2ltr and a 1.4ltr petrol engines or the much successful 1.3ltr diesel engine. Different ECU calibration and shorter gearing have sacrificed top-end performance for better drivability. In traffic and on part-throttle, the diesel Punto with its relatively short gearing and light clutch is quite a breeze to drive. Therefore, you cannot compare the car’s performance to polo or a Fabia. Where this car excels is the vast choices of engine upgrade, especially the diesel engine. The top end diesel car has a different, better turbo that maximizes the performance of it. Though a 1.6ltr engine would seriously do some well needed justice to the car. Originally, the car exceeded 4meters in length, so fiat had to reduce the size of the bumpers so to fit the car within the 4meter category, to avail the tax reduction. But from inside, it doesn’t feels like a big car. Fabia, for instance, has better seating space when compared to it. Looks like the designers of punto dint care of the seating space. It’s a big letdown. But the presence of gadgetry and technology will impress the gadget minded drivers. The Bluetooth function, amongst many other features of the car is impressive for a car of this budget. After sales service was always a problem with fiat India, but now that they have established a sound partnership with the tatas, the problem has been rectified to an extent. A new version, punto evo, inspired from the 500, will also be launched very soon. Though im not a big fan of the new design, but still, it’ll bring a sense of newness to this car, which hopefully will drive in sales for punto…!!

Prices: 4.40-6.94lakhs

Don’t consider it because:
·         Underpowered engines.
·         Seating space isn’t good.
·         Short Gearing ratio, though is a boon for city drivers, but is a pain for the highway users.
·         After sales, still is a thing to take into consideration.

Consider this car because:
·         The Italian design, still manages to turn heads.
·         Technology that it offers will please many.
·         Choices of upgrades in diesels are awesome!

Chevrolet

Chevy in India offers 2 hatch backs that will make it to this list. Buying a chevy in india is alwys a bargain because they offer 3year maintenance package, which, indirectly speaks of the reliability of their cars. Lets talk about their offerings.
They are:

BEAT:




This is a game changer of the Chevy in India. Beat follows a new design language of the Chevy’s which is similar to that of the corvette, inside out. The radical, young design helps this car to stand out of the rest. The front of the car looks like a monster therefore has an aggressive attitude to it. The side look of the car also compliments to the aggressiveness of the car. The raised side fenders of the car that flows to the rear, makes it look beautiful even from the side view. The rear doors don’t have a normal door opener. It almost looks like the car has no rear doors, but look closely and you’ll find the door openers stuck near the windows (this is impressive!). The rear also speaks of a funky design, therefore can be an eye candy for those seeking attention… ;)
The car offers a 1.2ltr petrol engine, offering a healthy power output of 86bhp and 108nm of torque. The big problem is that the weight of the car restricts the performance that one would expect from this car. Well, soon there will be diesel and all electric versions of the car…!! Diesel engine is a 1ltr, 3 cylinder motor, jointly produced with fiat that offers 150nm of peak torque! This is basically a 1.3ltr fiat multijet engine, that everyone is aware of, but general motors’ reduced one cylinder to boost the efficiency of the motor. From inside, again, impresses highly. The blue backlight air con controls, music system control give it a very rich look. The bike styled odometer adds to the funkiness of the car. Beat is basically for young, energetic people that compliments to their personality. The prices are very competitive. Therefore it’s one of a car that I would recommend. Though I will advise you to wait for the diesel version…
 Prices are from 3.55lakhs for the basic version to 4.73lakhs for the top end, LT version, with optional package.
 Don’t consider it because:
·         LETS YOU DOWN IN PERFORMANCE.
·         LOOKS MIGHT BE AN ISSUE FOR SOME.

CONSIDER IT BECAUSE:
·         THE IMPRESSIVE WARRANTEE PACKAGE THAT CHEVY PROVIDES YOU WITH.
·         ATTENTION GRABBING CAR.


AVEO U-VA:



Well, the name says it all. This is one strange car. Its huge, its ugly, its old, and the list goes on. But if you want to buy a car which will be driven mostly be a chauffeur, still then don’t buy this car. A new, better and good looking car is coming soon to India. Yes, it follows the new design language of Chevy, inspired by the corvette. It’s quite similar to the beat, but I think it will be better than the beat, given the Cabin space that u-va provides. Wait for the new version of the car. I will not offer the price list because the new version is so much better.
The new car should give the other 1.2ltr cars a competition…




FORD:
Ford offers one car, which has been a huge success here.


FORD FIGO.



It’s selling like cake here. It has been designed completely in Australia, and is based on an outdated platform, or should I say, “Old” platform. It, like every other car, follows a new design language of ford, called DELTA DESIGN. You’ll see and understand the new design in the new ford fiesta. Its mostly the pulled back headlamp, sporty bumpers, etc. the figo, is very sensible car. It’s another car I would suggest. The pricing of this car surely stole some customers from the Maruti Suzuki’s showrooms… it has both petrol and diesel options. Engines though being big do not produce the power that they should. It has a 1.5ltr petrol and 1.4ltr diesel engine, sourced from the fiesta classic. The engine is old, yet frugal and reliable. The height of the figo is low, so throw the car in hard corners, and the handling will not disappoint you. The boot space, rear passenger space will also impress you. Now imagine all of this under 4lakh rupee price bracket. Yes, this is why ford has already sold 100,000 cars within one year.
Prices: 3-63-5.55lakhs

Don’t consider it because:
·         Low height of the car, difficult to get in and out for some.
·         Fuel efficiency is a minor concern in petrol version.
Consider it because:
·         The price package is brilliant.
·         Has proven in India with more than 100,000 figos on road.
·         Has won so many awards in India.

Now let us talk about the second market leader.

Hyundai.
They entered the Indian market with the super successful tall boy, santro. Since then, the Hyundai has tasted success in India. The cars that we will talk about are the i10 and i20.
Both cars are marvelous, are the game changers for the hatch segment.

i10:



 from 3.57lakhs to 6.01lakhs!
This car was 1st introduced in India, then the world. This is because; the Hyundai specifically designed this car keeping in mind, the Indian market. The car looks like a playful kid, now it has been refreshed, so now you can see the FLUDIC DESIGN in it. Well this car is hugely successful in India, because of the pricing and Hyundai’s unmatched reliability is well known… the exteriors can or should be ignored because they really don’t impress. But it’s the interiors of the car that impresses the most. The strategically placed gear knob and well finished dash board gives it a premium finish. It has 2 petrol engine options. 1.1irde and 1.2kappa engine. The 1.1ltr produces 69bhp of power output at 5500rpm and maximum torque of 99nm at 4500rpm.  The 1.2ltr kappa, is more refined and so it produces 80bhp at 6000rpm and 111nm of torque at 4000rpm. The basic 1.1ltr car costs 3.57 and the basic 1.2ltr car costs 4.3 lakhs. The car is gr8, there is no such problem with it.
 Don’t consider it because:
·         Looks. Might not please everyone.
Consider it because:
·         Proven, successful car, worldwide.
·         Many options and choices to choose from.
·         Is a very sensible car overall.


i20:



The design speaks for itself. This car was designed for the European markets. Therefore its one hell of a car. There are so many variants and versions to choose from. Exteriors of this car are very well designed and thus will please everyone. Get inside the car and you are welcomed in a lap of luxury. The blue ambient lighting on consoles and odometers give it a trendy look. There are many engine options too! The prices starts from 4.63 lakhs and the best model costs 8.33 lakhs!!!!!!
There are 3 engine variants. Diesel 1.4ltr crdi and 2 petrol 1.2kappa and 1.4ltr. the performance is good, not great. The diesel offers 90bhp of power at 4000rpm and rpm of 220nm at just 1800rpm!! The diesel is the option to choose clearly!! But the 1.4ltr petrol engine is only available with automatic gear box. Overall it’s a gr8 car, safe too as it has 5star crash testing.
Pricing: 4.63-8.23lakhs
Don’t consider it because:
·         Performance, not upto the mark, when compared to the competition.
Consider it because:
·         Looks are well appointed
·         Reliability of a Hyundai
·         The safest car in the segment.
·         Variety of options to choose from.
·         Diesel version is the best option even when compared to the competitors.


Nissan:
Nissan is a fresh player in india. It’s not quite popular in india, but now that that have entered in this market with a radical “toy car” shaped MICRA



It’s very strange, you can spot this car from anywhere and can easily make out that it’s a micra. From its bold front look to its funky and retro rear finish, it seems like it’s a crossover of a toy car, a retro and a new car. Its offered with two engine options, a 3cylinder 1.2ltr petrol engine (producing 76bhp of power at 6000rpm and 104nm of torque at 4000rpm), and a 1.5ltr diesel engine( producing 64bhp at 4000rpm and 160nm of torque at 2000rpm). But the petrol version is suggested. The diesel engine is shared by the logan, or shall I say, verito. Very unique car interms of the interiors too… you feel like a retro car has been modified…The Micra does come across as a cute and cheerful design which will surely appeal to women. The Micra is also pretty practical. There is good amount of space for odds and ends and the door pockets are of a decent size. However, the double glovebox which is standard in the European-spec cars is missing and the Indian version only gets a single and very tiny glove compartment. 
Like all Nissans, there is no traditional key on this car. You get a keyless entry fob that allows you to yank the door open with it still sitting in your pocket, and the motor is fired with the help of a push button. The keyless start / stop feature is in fact a key feature! It’s the first for a B-segment car.
Pricing: 4.15-6.12lakhs
dont consider it because:
·         Lack of gadgetry that is expected in a car of this budget.
·         Diesel engine, lacks power.
·         Odd looking design may not please male-buyers
Consider it because:
·         Start/stop button, a 1st in this segment.
·         Fills the void between the polo and swift.
·         Gr8 seating space for all four passengers
·         Will surely please female buyers.

Tata:
Tatas now, are trying to rebuilt their image with the new series of car, exclusively designed in Italy. Vista is such example. It shares the engine, transmission with the fiat. Tata set out to deliver even more car per car with the new indica Vista.




More of everything — space, comfort, refinement, performance, the lot. By and large, Tata has succeeded for the Vista is a thoroughly engineered and modern hatchback. Tata has used new materials, new processes and their competence has reached a new level. You truly can’t get more space or comfort in this class, the interiors have moved up the quality ladder and with the addition of Fiat’s fabulous 1.3 Multi-jet, the Vista now is as refined, powerful and efficient as any of its competitors. They offer you 3 engine options, two petrol and one diesel. Let us start with petrol. They offer a 1.2ltr engine that produces 65bhp@5500rpm and 1.4ltr engine that produces 90bhp@6000rpm and 116nm torque@4750rpm and the diesel, sourced from fiat produces 75bhp@4000rpm and 190nm torque@1750rpm. All are powered by 5speed gearbox. Car is gr8, there are no such problems with it. The problem will be the “taxi” image that indica has…
Pricing: 3.65-6.03lakhs.
Don’t consider it because:
·         Taxi image to indica
·         Interior finishing still needs to improve.
Consider it because:
·         Great package deal under 4.5lakhs, its still the one of the roomiest when compared to the under 4.5lakh cars.
·         Tata’s service is cheap and cost of ownership is also the least.
·         Fiat’s engine and European gearbox gives it an edge over others.

Toyota:
Toyota had planned to enter into hatchback market way back in 2010. But they dint launch their yaris or any other present small acr. But instead, they designed a car, small car, specifically for the developing countries. They came up with the etios.
Etios liva:



This very car is the most aviated hatch in india. Nearly all auto magazines and shows had their eyes on its launch. They said with toyota’s reliability and trust and cheap pricing, this car can be the “competition killer”. Yet the car has received mixed reviews, because of its designing. Its not pretty, but it gets the work done. Exteriors are “ok-ish”, still, the rear end is way better than the bigger sister, etios’s rear end. The engine that you presently get is ta 1.2ltr 4 cylinder petrol engine that produces 80bhp @5600 rpm and 104nm torque@3100rpm. Its fair enough for india. But wait for few months and you’ll get a  diesel 1.4ltr engine that drives the corolla altis in liva. You may also get that 1.4ltr petrol engine that drives the etios. This car, undoubtly, will drive in sales and success for the Toyota. There are no such problems. No, I’m kidding, there are many problems with. This is the no-frills car from Toyota. Step inside the car, and you’ll be greeted with not-so beautiful looking interiors. They might be practical, but they are definitely not pretty. The rear passenger cabin is good, Toyotas have put in efforts to make it comfortable, and it shows. Overall, it’s a gr8 car, but the looks might not please everyone. Yes, the car is extremely reliable, they engines are bulletproof, literally!
Pricing: starts at 4.01lakhs and goes till 6.02lakhs!
Don’t consider it because:
·         Looks!
·         Cheap interiors
Consider it because:
·         Toyota’s trust and reliability
·         Attractive pricing.

And now, at last, the sister cars.
Skoda Fabia and Volkswagen polo.
You might be wondering how come they’re sister cars. Well, Volkswagen owns Skoda Company, and so they supply engines and technology to them. They both share the platform, engines, parts, etc. they might be different in looks but they are similar when it comes to “under the hood”.


Skoda Fabia:



This car has been in India for a long time now and hasn’t been successful. It was a premium offering before, like a small version of Octavia, but when it failed to run, Skoda introduced some cost cutting in order to reduce the cost of the car. Before it used to cost somewhere around 5-8lakhs, now it costs 4lakhs! They took out all goodies from it, even power windows so to keep the prices low. They’ve installed a new 1.2ltr petrol engine, sourced from the Volkswagen and a bigger 1.6ltr petrol engine, also from Volkswagen.
The exteriors are modern and European from all aspects. No one will hate this car because it is beautiful..!! And the area where it scores the max marks is the interiors. Step in with a blind fold on your eyes and you will feel like as if you are in a Skoda Octavia or Laura. Everything feels rich and plush, everything…!! The seating space is the best and roomiest in the hatchback segment. The only area where it isn’t good is the cost of ownership. Being a premium car, you will be subjected to premium after sales service.  And yes, that will pinch your pockets badly. The downgraded 1.2ltr petrol engine lacks the power in the initial, but rev it to 2800rpm and you will get a surge of power, (short supply though) till 6000rpm Which is ample for the cities. The bigger engine is good, but not excellent, as it is tuned for efficiency and not hard performance. And diesel engine is the best when it comes to mileage.
Pricing starts from 4.46 to 6.88lahks.
Don’t consider it because:
·         High cost of maintenance.
·         Not a gr8 performer on road.
Consider it because:
·         High class! Rich interiors feel like a class apart!
·         Now with reduced prices, it’s a bargain!


Volkswagen polo:



Ok this car has managed to get some sales for the company. It’s a gr8 deal; its refined, practical, etc. the car feels any other German car, “obsessed with qualities” if you’d say. The fit and finish is remarkable, and interiors are pleasant, but the rear passenger space is a thing to worry about. Like the sister, it also has 3 engine variants, 1.2ltr and 1.6ltr petrol and a diesel 1.2ltr version. The car is known worldwide for its handling and performance, but now as the engines are tuned for better fuel consumption, so ignore the performance. The handling as amazing, thanks to the well set up suspensions. German engineering at an affordable price is what the Polo aims to offer in the Indian market.. On the face of it, it sounds like a great deal but it’s only when you delve into the specification sheet (a lot of essential equipment is missing) or realize that the price ‘walk’ between the base and top-end variants is quite a bit, the Polo doesn’t quite set a benchmark for value for money. But that’s not the reason to buy Polo. This is a premium hatchback and, apart from the average range of engines, it lives up to the part. It’s contemporary, smartly styled, has a plush ride and a special premium feel that no other hatchback offers. The built-to-last Polo is for those who want a safe, solid and sensible hatchback.
Pricing: 4.60-7.11lakhs
Don’t consider it because:
·         A lot of essential equipment is missing.
·         Top end model is overpriced.
Consider it because:
·         Solid, reliable German built, will last long.
·         Gr8 option under 5lakh rupee.





-stealthracer