M&M Ssangyong Rexton diesel SUV launched in India; priced at Rs 17.67-19.67L

Auto major Mahindra and Mahindra launched its high-end sports utility vehicle Rexton in India on Wednesday in partnership with SsangYong motors. 

Ssangyong Rexton will be available only in diesel option. 

M&M joins the likes of Toyota Fortuner, Skoda Yeti, Honda CRV, Hyundai Santa Fe and Ford Endeavour in the premium SUV space.

Around 2,500 premium SUVs are sold every month in India, with Toyota's Fortuner alone accounting for around 1,300 units.

The company has priced the Rexton very competitively taking this very competition into consideration. "A manual model of the sports utility vehicle (SUV) is priced at Rs 17.67 lakh ex-Mumbai and the automatic version at Rs 19.67 lakh," M&M president, automotive and farm equipment, Pawan Goenka said at the launch. It is of course an introductory price, which will be likely revised after the festive season.

The all wheel drive Rexton will be powered by a 2.7 litre engine delivering 184 bhp and 402Nm torque in the automatic transmission and 162 bhp and 340Nm torque in the manual version.

M&M officials didn't disclose the sales volumes they expect but said will have a capacity to assemble around 5,000 units a year of the Rexton at its Chakan factory in Maharashtra.

Dr Pawan Goenka, president - automotive and farm equipment sector, and also Ssangyong Chairman, said that there won't be any constraint on production and the company will be able to supply to demand.

"Capacity will not be a constraint. If there are more people who buy this vehicle, we will make sure that we supply...This is a new price point for us and so difficult to estimate how the customer response will be. We have set aside a capacity of 500 units per month in single shift. So if we see that kind of response and can sell 500 units consistently, we will be very happy," he said.

Presently 22% of the components in the Rexton will be locally sourced, while the rest will be imported from Korea. Company officials say that they have plans to "aggressively" localise the Rexton, but it will all depend on the sales volumes it can generate.

M&M has invested Rs 63 crore in tuning the Rexton for India. This is the third generation of the SUV, and SsangYong began its sales in Korea in July and exports began last month.

Rexton will be sold through existing Mahindra dealerships, but there will be a separate area and sales support at the dealers for SsangYong vehicles.

Rexton will be available in Mumbai and Delhi for now and it will be launched in 6-7 more cities like Bangalore, Chennai and Pune in a week's time.

Company officials say M&M and SsangYong are co-developing next generation engines. But they are tight lipped on the next planned launch from the SsangYong stable, only saying that there are products in the Korean company's existing portfolio and future pipeline, that will be studied for the Indian market. But their focus clearly right now is driving sales of the Rexton.

Meanwhile, M&M says there has been a good response for the Quanto mini SUV launched last month and demand for its flagship XUV500 remains strong.

Top Car Launches in 2010

2010 has been a remarkable year for not just carmakers but car buyers too. With a flood of launches, Indian buyers had more than what they could take, in terms of new cars. Nevertheless, car manufacturers kept bringing new and advanced looks and technology in the cars to lure the Indian buyers towards them.
Lets have a look at what the car industry brought in, what was a memorable year, 2010

Volkswagen Beetle
Volkswagen, the premium automobile company truly understands the sentiments attached with wedding season in India. The German auto manufacturer has rightly catered the marriage season in India by launching an ad campaign and woven Volkswagen Beetle beautifully in it.

Chevrolet Beat
The beautiful car from world’s largest auto manufacturer, General Motors, spiced up the year 2010 with its beauty performance and excellence. The Chevrolet Beat was launched on 4th Jan 2010 and was priced between Rs 3,49,994 - Rs 4,15,486 with availability in three exciting petrol variants. The choice of colors makes the model more interesting on road. The premium hatchback offers mileage of 14.5kmpl in city and 18.6kmpl on highway.

Nissan Micra
Nissan took a big move in Indian automobile hatchback segment by bringing its all exciting Nissan Micra on 14th July 2010. The company introduced its diesel version on 10th December. Nissan Micra was the first car from Japanese auto makers to be brought to India and was well received in the market due to its look, easy maneuverability. The selling features of Nissan Micra are its turning radius (4.65), Push start and Intelligent key system. The mill of the compact four-wheeler offers mileage of around 14 kmpl in city and 18.06 kmpl on highways.

Volkswagen Vento
The car priced between Rs 7,17,470 - Rs 9,47,170 was launched on 12th August 2010. The all new Volkswagen Vento comes with the same engine as is available in Volkswagen Polo i.e. 1.6 L petrol and diesel engines. The beautiful compact car gives a mileage of 20.54 kmpl on highway and 15.8 kmpl in city. Volkswagen Vento is designed to give direct competition to the market leader Honda City.

Skoda Yeti
The stunning SUV from Skoda was launched on 15th Nov 2010. Skoda Yeti was awarded the SUV of the year and comes with a price tag of Rs 15,40,324* - Rs 16,62,721. The new Skoda vehicle comes in two variants i.e. Ambiente and Elegance. the crossover delivers 17.67 kmpl of mileage. The major competitors for this new car in Indian market are Mahindra Scorpio, Tata Safari, Tata Aria, Maruti Grand Vitara, Ford Endeavour, Toyota Fortuner and Mitsubishi Outlander.

Mahindra Thar
The powerful gypsy made its way on Indian roads on 21st December 2010 with a price tag of Rs 5,99,000 - Rs 5,99,000. Mahindra Thar assures a safe and powerful drive on worst road conditions. The powerful engine offers zipper acceleration and crosses a 100 kms easily in just 13.5 seconds. It offers a top speed of 150 kmph. The contemporary gypsy is given an edgy look with least of curves and delicate lines rather the crease on body are so prominent and bold that it depicts great power.

Toyota Etios
The sizzling luxury made its way in Indian market on 1st December 2010. Toyota Etios sedan is the least priced (Rs 4,96,000 - Rs 6,86,500) model in Toyota’s portfolio. Hugely popular car registered over 12000 bookings within 15 days of launch, making a record. It gives a mileage of 17.6 kmpl on highway and 12 kmpl in city. This makes it a fuel efficient car without compromising on the performance and luxury.

Skoda will launch 3 to 5 lakhs Small Cars in India

In India different types of small cars demand is increasing in day to day life of people. So seeing this demand world's car manufacture companies are very enthusiastic to launch different varieties of small cars. Now Imported Car Company Skoda of Czech Republic has decided to launch small cars in India and its price will very convenient. The price of these cars will be approximately 3 to 5 lakhs. Skoda's this car will be launched on he beginning of 2012 year. Currently company is designing this small car. Although earlier Skoda has lunched its small car Skoda Fabia but this despite being small car Skoda Fabia is equal to the price of Sedan version Cars because Fabia's initial cost is 6 lakhs rupees. So Skoda is determined to launch small cars in range of 3 to 5 lakhs.

While Skoda is going to launch its "Sport Utility Vehicle "Yeti"" in India at the end of this 2010 year. So we are waiting to see this Sport Utility Vehicle Yeti on road. Bing told that this sports utility vehicle Yeti's Ex-showroom price will be near 18 lakhs. Including Yeti Skoda will also going to launch Sedan version of Fabia this year and next year company will launch another new Sedan Car in Indian market.

So Clearly, Car Companies of all over World's eyes set on Indian Car Markets and Indian consumers are getting benefit because of new features and competition. Now people have lots of choices in all categories in all segments. That's not enough because of crucial competition Companies are providing premium car features in small cars.

Last year, Skoda sold 14,800 total cars in India and this year companies target is increase still 20,000 and more.

Cars Launches in India in 2010

The auto market in India is getting more competitive by the day and auto enthusiasts are waiting with bated breath for the release of upcoming cars in 2010. There are a slew of launches slated for this year and among the list of upcoming cars in 2010, are cars from various categories having innovative features, in tune with the current user needs. The assorted list comprises family cars, sports utility vehicles and the highly resourceful multi-utility automobiles. The article explores few of the much awaited upcoming cars in 2010.

Hyundai Avante:

Hyundai Avante will be the refurbished version of the Elantra. The innovative details and contemporary looks have added to the appeal of Hyundai Avante. Hyundai Avante will have a roomy cabin, advanced instruments and soothing blue backlighting. Twin front airbags, digital climate control and refined machine make up the other features. The car looks best from the rear with the corolla type tail lamps and chunky bumper. Hyundai Avante would have 2 litre DOHC petrol engine and a 1.6 liter CRDi diesel engine. It would be priced between Rs. 9-11 lakh.

Nissan March:

Nissan March marks Nissan's entry into the automatic passenger car market and it will be launched in the A segment and will have 80% of localization. Nissan March is one of the nine cars the company plans to launch in the Indian auto market.

Skoda Fabia Combi:

Skoda is set to launch Fabia Combi at a price less than Rs 10 lakh with main focus on comfort, mileage and performance. Although Ford Fusion might pose a challenge, Fabia Combi will create its own place in the heart of Indian car lovers. Fabia Combi will compete with Tata Indigo Marina and Chevrolet Optra SRV. Fabia Combi is 7 mm longer and 46 mm higher and has headlamps that carry a distinct look and traditional front grille. The vertical bars and Skoda logo complete the look of the car. Additionally there will be some radical changes in the interiors of the Fabia Combi.

Audi A5:

Audi A5 is a delight for Audi lovers. Audi A5 is a coupe that changes the concept of car design and it is in sync with the modern designs. Audi A5 has a vintage appeal which is accentuated with the uber chic charm and flat roof enhanced by a sweeping touch of the roofline. Audi A5 has grace and charisma and the broad bumpers and striking spoiler lip augment the look. Audi A5 also commands attention by its sheer presence. Long wheelbase, broad wheel track, 360 degree safety concept, two-stage full-size air-bag for the driver's seat are the other features included.

Maruti Kizashi:

Maruti is contemplating a D segment entry with the all new Maruti Kizashi. Maruti Kizashi is slated to be launched in early 2010 and it is likely to compete with Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Skoda Octavia and the upcoming Volkswagen Jetta. Maruti Kizashi will have a list of innovative features like six speed transmission, 21 inch alloys, and six-speed transmission. Maruti Kizashi will be produced at the company's Manesar facility in Haryana.

Volvo XC60:

Volvo XC60 is a slick and stylish concept car by Volvo with great exteriors bearing resemblance to the Ford Iosis concepts. Volvo XC60 is based on the Land Rover LR2 platform and is available in gasoline - and diesel-burning engines but is region specific. Volvo XC60 employs the modified version of Volvo P24- platform.

Volkswagen Up:

Volkswagen Up is the small car from Volkswagen and the cheapest car from the Volkswagen stables. Volkswagen Up debuted at the2007 Frankfurt Auto Show in Germany and the cars name is synonymous with departure, activity, dynamics and the future. Volkswagen Up has unique central displays, two monitors; one 8 inch monitor which displays the vehicle speed, fuel level and range, as well as the CO2 emissions. The 7 inch monitor controls climate control, radio volume, music selection, telephone, navigation, photos and movies.

Volkswagen Polo:

Volkswagen Polo is developed from the principles of the new Volkswagen "Design DNA". The Volkswagen Polo is a purposeful and impressive car, which measures 3,970 millimeters in length and is 1,682 millimeters wide. It offers space for up to five people and a lot of luggage with its 280 to 952 liters capacity. Volkswagen Polo has a more dynamic stance and purposeful appearance with sharp designs, precise lines sans the stylistic gimmicks. Volkswagen Polo has two different headlights and integrated in the headlights are the turn signal lights. Volkswagen Polo has external and internal design features of the headlights with different lighting elements that combine with the lines of the radiator grille to form one unit.

Toyota Prius:

The 2010 Toyota Prius is a hybrid model with a powerful 98-horsepower and 1.8-liter Atkinson-cycle engine. Toyota Prius is combined with electric motor hybrid system, 134 horsepower and improved fuel economy to an EPA estimated 51/48 city/hwy mpg and a combined 50 mpg. Toyota Prius has new Hybrid Synergy Drive system, new inverter, 20 percent weight reduction and new electronically-controlled regenerative braking system. Toyota Prius has three driving modes like EV Mode on battery power at low speed, Power Mode with increased throttle response and Eco Mode for best fuel efficiency.

Skoda Yeti:

Skoda Yeti is the much awaited SUV from Skoda. Skoda Yeti is the cheaper alternative to Hyundai Tucson, Honda CR-V, Chevrolet Captiva, Suzuki Grand Vitara and the Mitsubishi Outlander. Skoda Yeti will reflect the beauty and power of both Fabia and Octavia and will be placed in between these two cars. It will be predominantly built with a front wheel drive configuration. Skoda Yeti is 4.2 meter long, has five-door and impressive front end with a ribbed grille and stylish headlamps. Skoda Yeti has innovative seating options like three bucket seats in the last row. Skoda Yeti will be priced around Rs 10 lakhs.

Tata Indicruz:

Tata Indicruz MPV is a much awaited vehicle from the Tata stables. Tata Indicruz will compete with Honda CR-V and Volvo XC90. Tata Indicruz will have airbags, ABS, automatic climate control and cruise control. The current version of the Tata Indicruz seems much like the more rounded, Innova look alike. The car would be priced at just 20 per cent above that of the recently launched Tata Sumo Grande Mark II.

Hyundai i30:

After the success of i10 and i20 cars in India, i30 is going to be the next big launch for the company. Hyundai i30 will be available in both petrol and diesel versions. Offering a class leading combination of comfort and refinement, interior space, economy and exceptional levels of standard equipment, the car is a complete all-round package. The launch of i30 is likely to be successful in the country, more so, considering Hyundai's strong network of dealers as well as its past successful stint.

Tata Aria:

Tata Aria is slated to be launched in the second half of 2010 and was unveiled at the Auto Expo in New Delhi in January 2010. Tata Aria is a crossover between a sports utility vehicle and a multi utility vehicle. Tata Aria will offer robust performance with comfort, owing to its unique design. The interiors of Tata Aria will offer three rows of theatre style seating, 3D surround sound, dimming roof lamps, built in GPS and a state-of-the-art infotainment system. Tata Aria is equipped with multi functional steering wheel, air conditioning with automatic climate control and cruise control. The high end version of Tata Aria comes with 6 airbags.

Maruti Cervo:

Leading family car manufacturer Maruti is planning to launch Maruti Cervo by the end of this year. Maruti Cervo will be equipped with 54bhp 660cc engine. It will bear resemblance to Honda Fit and the interiors will resemble Swift or SX4. K6A DOHC engine with VVT, 4-speed auto gearbox and bluetooth capabilities are the other features included. Maruti Cervo will be priced between Rs 2 Lakh to Rs 3 Lakh.

The wide range of cars that are geared up to hit the Indian roads in 2010, are awaited with much fervor by auto enthusiasts.

Skoda to introduce 8 new models in India

Auto brand Skoda India will strengthen its position in India by rolling out eight new models in the country in the next five years. Its list of new cars waiting to be launched includes the new Skoda Superb, Skoda Yeti and Roomster.

SKODA INDIA is thinking big for India. In order to strengthen its position in India the company plans to roll out eight new models to India in the next five years.

Skoda made its entry into the Indian market with its popular model Skoda Octavia in the D-segment. It also bags the credit for introducing Pump-Duse technology with its model Skoda Fabia for the first time in India.

Skoda Fabia, a premium hatchback, the most popular and stylish model in India, has created a rave in the Indian auto industry.

The brand is also planning to roll out another small car for the country, which will be cheaper than Fabia.

Every model of Skoda’s model is a success in the country and now Indian users will experience a new model from Skoda every year. The company’s list of new cars waiting to be launched in India includes the new Skoda Superb, which will make its entry in early 2009 and Skoda Yeti from the SUV segment while the Roomster will also hit Indian roads in a couple of years.

Skoda India will also be expanding its dealership across the country. Currently, it has 56 dealerships and by 2009, it will be increased to 75 countrywide.