It probably was a nice blend of sheer power and sophistication to begin with. However over the years the GL Class of models from Mercedes-Benz has matured in both departments only to return in 2013 looking all the more imposing and a lot more luxurious to say the least.

Gracing the launch of the new generation all-terrain monstrosity from Mercedes-Benz was our beloved Tennis star Boris Becker, who took the wraps of the exclusive launch edition of the new GL Class, only 100 units of which are on offer to interested buyers.

Not only has Mercedes-Benz managed to increase the output and torque by up to 22% over the previous model, but also reduce the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions on the new GL 350 CDI 4MATIC by 15% as compared to before. Thanks to its third-generation technology, the 3.0 litre V6 diesel engine on the new GL 350 CDI BlueEfficiency 4MATIC produces 258PS and 620Nm of torque. The standard-specification ECO start/stop function automatically ensures that the engine is temporarily switched off when the vehicle is standing at traffic lights or in a jam.

The new GL-Class besides being more powerful and efficient also packs in a heap of newer driver assist and safety technologies like Crosswind Assist, Trailer Stability Assist and Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR) systems among others to bring out the best in vehicle even under harsh driving conditions.

Now available at Mercedes-Benz dealerships pan India, the new generation GL 350 CDI Launch Edition will cost you a hefty Rs 77.5 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). But it certainly looks worth the price tag. Question is whether it fits your bill; literally or any other way you imagine.

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Mahindra andamp; Mahindra has now added a new H-Series to its Xylo model, which like the MPV's high-end E9 variant will be powered by the refined mHawk engine. The rationale behind the nomenclature of the Xylo H-Series derives from its engine, where 'H' connotes the world class mHawk engine with high power, high performance and high mileage.

Benefiting from the mHawk engine's 120PS power and 280Nm torque all the variants under the H-series, namely the H4, the H8 and the H9 will offer Xylo buyers better driveability on both city roads and highways and a satisfactory ARAI certified fuel efficiency of 14.02 kmpl. The new H-Series is equipped with all new transmission which facilitates effortless gear shifting.

Starting at an attractive price of Rs 8.23 lakh (ex showroom Mumbai, BSIV variant) the well-balanced Xylo H-Series offering from Mahindra includes three variants, starting with the base H4 (with ABS option), followed by the H8 (with ABS andamp; Airbag option) and finally a feature packed H9 version with features like Voice Command Technology (VCT), Cruise Control, Digital Drive Assist System, etc.

The new H-Series is also equipped with key safety features like ABS with EBD, Dual Airbags, Extra Stability Technology Suspension (EST), Reverse Parking Assist and several other features.

Speaking at the introduction of the new H-Series Xylo, Pravin Shah, Chief Executive, Automotive Division, Mandamp;M Ltd. said, "The Xylo has since its introduction in 2009 carved a unique identity for itself in the area of class leading space andamp; comfort. The addition of the world class mHawk engine will further boost its performance and take it a notch higher in its segment. Equipped with higher power and better efficiency, we are sure that the new Xylo H-Series will be a popular choice amongst the discerning personal buyers".

The Xylo H-Series is on sale across Mahindra dealerships pan India and will be available in one new colour - Dolphin Grey, (H8 andamp; H9) apart from being available in 5 other attractive colours. All the additional customer benefits being offered with the H-series are without any increase in the price (as compared to outgoing E series), thereby offering even greater value proposition to customers.

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The compact SUV and entry level MPV market has clearly been an area of focus with auto manufacturers in recent times. And it must be said that every new launch in this segment has strategically attempted to outclass all its prevailing opponents.

While the Ertiga has made many bow down since being launched in April last year, GM's plans of introducing a solid and cost effective product to challenge the Maruti MPV in this space has been long known and the launch of its Enjoy may just end up achieving that goal.

For starters despite being a more spacious offering as compared to the Ertiga, the base petrol LS (8 seater) variant of the Enjoy has been priced almost Rs 50,000 lesser than the Ertiga Lxi model, while the base diesel LS (8 seater) variant of the Enjoy can be yours for almost 71,000 lesser than the equivalent Ertiga diesel model.

We then move on to what Enjoy customers are really paying for, which is a very spacious cabin that can seat seven or eight people depending on the middle row being fitted with a bench seat or captain seats. The Chevrolet badged MPV offers simple interiors that offer basic comforts like power steering, power windows, a stereo and air conditioning even on the top-end LTZ variant. Safety features aboard the Enjoy LTZ include anti-lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution and dual front airbags ().

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The engines on offer with the Enjoy are a four-cylinder 1.3-litre diesel motor and a four-cylinder 1.4 litre petrol motor developing 77.5PS and 104PS of power respectively. Both engines are mated to a five-speed manual gearbox ().

Speaking at the launch of the Enjoy, P. Balendran, Vice President, General Motors India, said "We believe this is the right product for India in one of the market's fastest-growing segments. As a new leader in the segment, we expect the Enjoy to be very popular. Its introduction is another sign of our commitment to make Chevrolet the most preferred vehicle brand in India,"

Chevy Enjoy prices start at 5.49 lakh for the petrol model and 6.69 lakh for the diesel. Entry level variant Enjoy LS will be available with both seven and eight seater options for both diesel and petrol. Claimed fuel economy for diesel is 18.2 kmpl.

Chevrolet Enjoy variant-wise pricing:

- Enjoy 1.4 petrol:

LTZ - 6.99 Lakh*

LT - 6.31 Lakh*

LS (7-seater) - 5.54 Lakh*

LS (8-seater) - 5.49 Lakh*

- Enjoy 1.3 diesel:

LTZ - 7.99 Lakh*

LT - 7.42 Lakh*

LS (7 seater) - 6.74 Lakh*

LS (8 seater) - 6.69 Lakh*

*all prices are ex-showroom Delhi

Chevrolet Enjoy related stories:

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]]> 0 Rahul Basu http://www.zigwheels.com/news-features/recent-launches/chevrolet-enjoy-launched-at-rs-549-lakh/16321/ 2013-05-06 19:43:37 Abhishek Chaliha http://www.zigwheels.com/news-features/recent-launches/mahindra-bolero-maxi-truck-plus-launched/16291/

Available in BS III and BS IV variants the Mahindra Bolero Maxi Truck Plus has been priced at Rs 4.33 lakh (ex-showroom Thane) and Rs 4.43 lakh (ex-showroom Mumbai) respectively

Earlier in 2013, the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) had announced industry figures for the financial year 2012-13 which indicated that the rise in demand for small commercial vehicles would cannibalise sales of three-wheeler commercial vehicles.

Mahindra probably concurs with this projection of SIAM and has launched the Bolero Maxi Truck Plus which seeks to capitalise on the market potential.

The Mahindra Bolero Maxi Truck Plus has been launched in BS III and BS IV versions. The BS III version has been priced at Rs 4.33 lakh (ex-showroom Thane) while the BS IV version has been priced at Rs 4.43 lakh (ex-showroom Mumbai).

Like the Bolero utility vehicle, the Bolero Maxi Truck Plus pick-up truck is powered by the 2,523cc common rail diesel engine that develops 63PS of power and 195Nm of torque. It has a maximum payload of 1,150 kg and the ARAI-claimed mileage for the BS III version is 17.7 kmpl.

The Mahindra Bolero Maxi Truck Plus features dual tone interiors, power steering, a 5.5 meter turning radius, leaf spring suspension, 15 inch wheel rims, a 2500 mm x 1620 mm x 458 mm cargo bed, an engine immobiliser and a 1 year unlimited kilometer unlimited warranty.

Speaking on the launch, Pravin Shah, Chief Executive, Automotive Division, Mahindra andamp; Mahindra, said, "The Indian pick-up market is growing more rapidly than ever before and Mahindra has been leading this category with a 54% market share during FY 2012 -13. We have continuously updated and evolved our products to deliver greater value to our customers while retaining the basic tough and rugged DNA associated with Mahindra vehicles."

Designed as a last mile connectivity vehicle the Mahindra Bolero Maxi Truck Plus seeks to offer more practicality over its three-wheeled rivals with its higher payload capacity designed to cut down the number of trips while also providing better driveability and comfort as well. To keep operating costs low, the Bolero Maxi Truck Plus requires servicing and gear oil change after every 10,000 kms and engine oil change after every 20,000 kms.

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Volkswagen has finally launched the much-awaited performance variant of the Polo hatchback. However, the Rs 7.99 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) sticker price may have dampened the spirits of enthusiasts for what is otherwise a brilliant hot hatch.

Armed with a 1.2-litre petrol engine featuring direct injection and turbocharging that develops 105PS of power and 175Nm of torque, the Volkswagen Polo GT TSI holds the honour of being the only hot hatchback in the country. The modern engine is mated to an equally modern seven-speed double clutch automatic gearbox. The DSG gearbox has three modes, namely, automatic, sport and manual.

Volkswagen claims that the Polo GT TSI can go from 0-100 km/h in 9.7 seconds and onwards to a top speed of 190 km/h. The company also claims that maximum torque is available from 1,500 rpm onwards. The ARAI fuel efficiency figure of the Volkswagen Polo GT TSI has been rated at 17.2 kmpl.

The Volkswagen Polo GT TSI is available in Highline trim only and will be distinguished externally from the less powerful variants with its GT badges. The Polo GT TSI does, however, feature more equipment than the lesser 1.2 Highline variants in the form of a climate control system and new seat fabric.

The Highline variants of the Polo also pack in a lane change indicator with triple flash, a stereo with USB, Aux-in and SD card connectivity, alloy wheels, front and rear fog lamps, rear defogger, rear wash wipe, electric ORVMs, a 12V power outlet at the front, tilt and telescopic adjustable multifunction steering wheel, remote central locking and leather-wrapped steering, gear knob as well as handbrake lever.

on the Polo GT TSI includes front airbags, ABS, ESP (Traction control system) and pinch guard safety for all 4 power windows.

The Volkswagen Polo GT TSI will be available in three colours, namely, Candy White, Flash Red and Deep Black.

All in all, the Volkswagen Polo GT TSI packs in powertrain technology that is a generation ahead of other hatchbacks on the market. However, there is a premium of Rs 2.01 lakh over the less powerful top-of-the-line petrol Polo that one has to pay to enjoy this otherwise cracking car.

BMW has just upped the opulence game in the luxury car market with the launch of its fifth generation 7 Series model. The most apparent changes on the newer model in 2013 can be seen on the front end and these include the new LED headlights and kidney grille, a revised front bumper, side indicators and a thin classy chrome strip connecting the two slim reflectors in the rear apron.

But inside this refurbished German luxury limousine is where you really want to be all day long. The front seats are now narrower and offer a more airy feel to the cabin. A new high-end 1,200 watt Bang and Olufsen high end surround sound system with 16 speakers adds a nice touch and makes all your in car entertainment that much more pulsating. Apart from that, the 7 Series retains its quintessential luxury DNA including the long hood and set back passenger cabin ().

Powering the only diesel trim currently available to Indian 7 Series buyers is a 2993cc, in line 6 cylinder diesel unit. Fitted with a turbocharger, variable intake geometry and piezo injectors, the engine now delivers 261PS @ 4000 rpm as opposed to 234PS earlier, and torque has also gone up from 520Nm to 560Nm which kicks in as low as 1500rpm.

Unlike the earlier car, the new car is now mated to an all-new eight-speed automatic gearbox that makes for a 0-100km/h burst in 6.2 seconds, which is approximately 1.7 seconds faster than the outgoing model.

Refined and restyled to take on the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the Audi A8 and the Jaguar XJ the new BMW 7 Series is available across dealerships pan India and will sell in a single diesel and three petrol variants. The The BMW 730d model will be manufactured at the company's Chennai plant. All other models will be brought in as CBUs (Completely Built Units). Prices for all models as are as below ().

2013 BMW 7 SERIES MODEL PRICING

BMW 730Ld 92.90 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi)

BMW 740Li 1.12 crore (ex-showroom Delhi)

BMW 750Li 1.29 crore (ex-showroom Delhi)

BMW 760Li 1.73 crore (ex-showroom Delhi)

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Skoda has launched a limited edition Rapid Prestige variant priced at Rs 8.99 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). The mid-size sedan now comes with additional bells and whistles such as a navigation system, parking sensors, wind visors, textile floor mats and Prestige badging on the sides of the car to give it a distinct identity.

The Rapid Prestige edition is available only with the 1.6 TDI diesel engine that puts out 105PS and 250Nm of torque. Also, it's around Rs 3,000 cheaper than the mid-variant Ambition Plus, which is priced at Rs 9.02 lakh.

Skoda has gone on overdrive mode lately with the Rapid's promotion with the sedan being offered with a slew of deals and discounts. Its most recent was a 100 per cent finance offer that let customers avail a loan on the entire ex-showroom price of the Skoda Rapid at 10.75 per cent interest and zero down payment. Read More:

Last month we drove the Nissan Sunny CVT and found it to be rather impressive as a technical package. Mating the stock Sunny with the Japanese company's Xtronic Conituously Variable Transmission has combined the car's inherent space with the convenience of extremely easy driving even in the most horrific of traffic situations. The Nissan Sunny CVT is now available for bookings at Nissan dealerships across the country for a price tag of Rs 8.49 lakh ex-showroom in Delhi.

The Sunny CVT () will be available only with the petrol engine and only in the XL variant as of now. The 1.5 litre petrol mill puts out 101PS @ 5600rpm and 134Nm of torque at 4000rpm. Nissan's Xtronic CVT boasts of having the highest transmission ratio in the world (currently) at 7.3:1, achieved by employing an auxiliary gearbox on the driven side pulley. That actually gives this particular gearbox more than just bragging rights andndash; it turns out to be 10 percent smaller in size, quite a bit lighter and also 30 percent better at reducing friction than conventional CVTs.

Nissan's Xtronic turns out to be faster in the 0-100 km/h by all of 2 seconds compared to a 5-speed auto'box on a comparable car. But more than the performance the biggest bargain that the Sunny CVT brings to the table is that it is 20 percent more fuel efficient than its manual variants. Nissan claims 17.97kmpl from the Sunny CVT which is quite impressive indeed. Go take a test drive today

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Needless to say sitting behind the wheel of one of these is a mark of high stature in itself. But considering Audi has already managed to sell over 6,000 A6 models in India alone, you may just find yourself feeling a bit of brick in the luxury saloon wall if you are considering getting yourself the regular A6 sedan.

So to make matters a bit more exclusive for its high end customers, the German car manufacturer has just introduced a special edition of its mainstream luxury sedan offering, which is a celebration of a praiseworthy sales milestone that it has managed to achieve in its six year stint in India.

What makes the already luxurious A6 that much more exclusive in its special edition guise are a portfolio of innovations like Adaptive Air Suspension with Audi Drive Select, 4-Zone Deluxe Air Conditioning, Rear Side Airbags, a Bose Surround Sound System, MMI Touch, Comfort Key, MMI Remote Control, Front Co-Driver seat adjustment from the rear and LED headlights.

Speaking at the launch of the special edition Audi A6, Michael Perschke, Head, Audi India said, "With the introduction of the special edition we would like to thank our loyal customers for making the Audi A6 a huge success. Winner of the 'World car of the Year' award, Audi A6 has been a huge success in India, right from the time it was launched. Keeping in line with our top down strategy most key features from our flagship Audi A8 are now available in the Audi A6."

"The front co-driver's seat adjustment is a feature we took from our successful A6L in China and adopted it specifically for the Indian market," he added.

One of the most desirable features on this car is an efficient 4-zone deluxe air conditioning system that controls the temperature in the car according to the position and intensity of the sun and ensures faster cooling on the rear side.

Demonstrating successful interplay of design and technology, the special edition Audi A6 is available in two engine options (2.0 TDI and 3.0 TDI) at an introductory price of INR 46.33 lakh onwards (ex-showroom Delhi).

They say first impression is the last impression; in the case of Honda's compact sub 4 metre sedan debutant for India and the world this phrase could not hold more truth. Since getting us conversant with the vehicle's brilliant design integration from the basic Brio architecture and its outstanding performance courtesy an all-new revolutionary i-DTEC engine, the Amaze has become a matter of parley for all the right reasons.

Well the most highly anticipated compact sedan of the year is finally here. Honda has launched the Amaze at a starting price of Rs 4.99 lakh for the base petrol model and Rs 5.99 lakh for the basic trim diesel version. There are four basic variants in both petrol and diesel versions. andndash; E, EX, S and VX with Manual Transmission. Additionally, the Amaze is available in Automatic Transmission in S and VX petrol grades. Six colour options are on offer: Majestic Blue Metallic (new and exclusive), Carnelian Red Pearl, Urban Titanium Metallic, Alabaster Silver Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl and Taffeta White

Like we informed you earlier, the Honda Amaze for India has under its hood a 1.2-litre, 4 Cylinder, SOHC, i-VTEC engine that dishes out 88PS @ 6,000 rpm and 109Nm of torque @ 4,500 rpm. The first of its kind from the Honda stable i.e. the 1.5-litre, 4 Cylinder, DOHC, i-DTEC diesel engine will produce 100PS@ 3,600 and 200Nm of torque @1,750 rpm. Fuel efficiency on the diesel version is approximately 22kmpl.

Talking about the development of the Amaze, Yoshiyuki Matsumoto, Managing Officer, Honda Motor Company and Representative of Development, Purchasing and Production in Asia andamp; Oceania Region said, "Honda Amaze is our most strategic model in the Indian market and has been developed with strong focus on Indian requirements."

The sedan despite catering to a price sensitive consumer has been loaded with features that will make it a great prospect for any family. Electric Power Steering, Front and Rear power windows, keyless entry, 2DIN Integrated Audio (AM/FM,Mp3,USB,Aux-in), rear defogger, fuel consumption display, cup holders and exterior styling elements like body coloured ORVMs and front and rear bumpers add to the overall premium touch on the Amaze ().

Safety equipment is also impressive with driver seat belt reminders, WAVE key and a high mount stop lamp being offered as standard across all variants. ABS with EBD will be offered on all trims except the E, EX and S petrol variants.

The Honda Amaze comes with a 2 years or 40,000 kms warranty as standard value for all customers. With a view to give the Amaze customers, a transparent and quality service experience, HCIL has offered an attractive Honda Care maintenance package for 2 years or 40,000 kms (whichever is earlier) for Rs 9,996 for Amaze Petrol and Rs 15,375 for Amaze Diesel.

The Honda Amaze is being manufactured at HCIL's facility in Greater Noida, U.P with localisation level of more than 90 per cent. Bookings for the car started from the 1st April 2013 and deliveries of the Amaze have begun from the 11th of April through the company's pan India sales network which presently comprises of 150 dealers and in 97 cities across India.

Honda Amaze variant-wise pricing details:

Honda Amaze Technical Specifications:

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Got questions about the Amaze? Chat LIVE with ZigWheels Editor-in-Chief Adil Jal Darukhanawala and his team of experts on from 3-6pm today and 12-3pm on April 12, 15-19th to get all your queries answered about the new sub-4-metre sedan from Honda.

Related Honda Amaze stories:

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What started off as the more stylish and comfort focused version of the Nissan Sunny selling under the Renault badge has come a long way since merely being launched as the Scala.

Closely following the launch of the CVT version () of the premium sedan Renault has further expanded the Scala range with the launch of an accessory-rich edition that includes creature comforts like an integrated multimedia NAV system, rear sunshade, illuminated scuff plate, blinkers on ORVM and a muffler cutter to the travel experiences of sedan lovers across the nation.

Focused on improving overall comfort and connectivity for passengers, the Scala Travelogue Edition over and above the standard features available on the RxZ diesel variant offers buyers a touch screen multimedia NAV system including updated navigation with voice, DVD player, Bluetooth connectivity, USB port, iPodTM connectivity, reverse camera portability and steering mounted controls for a more connected drive.

Speaking at the launch of the new Scala Travelogue Edition, Sumit Sawhney, Executive Director, Marketing andamp; Sales, Renault India Pvt. Ltd said,"Renault's success in the Indian market has been primarily due to our ability to offer products that meet the evolving needs and aspirations of our customers, enabling the company to see a steady growth despite an increasingly challenging market."

On offer only till the 31st of May this year the Scala Travelogue Edition is available with the Scala RXZ Diesel variant at a price of Rs. 9,78,500/-(ex-showroom Delhi).

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A little over two months after the launch of the 2013 Audi R8 in India, the German luxury car maker has introduced the R8 V10 plus in the country at Rs 2,05,95,000 (ex-showroom Maharashtra) making it Audi's flagship performance car in India.

The Lamborghini derived naturally aspirated 5.2 litre FSI V10 engine in the Audi R8 plus belts out an additional 25PS of power pushing the total power output to 550PS while the torque figure has gone up over the standard R8 V10 by 10Nm to 540Nm @ 6,500 rpm.

The engine is mated to the company's latest fast shifting S tronic 7-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox featuring launch control for optimum traction during enthusiastic standing starts. Power is sent to the wheels via Audi's legendary quattro all-wheel-drive system with a rear axle bias for some flamboyant rear wheel power biased action.

Audi has also increased the use of carbon fibre in the R8 V10 plus to lower its gross weight by 50kg over the standard R8 V10 to increase the plus' power to weight ratio.

The result is that this mid-engined supercar can go from 0-100km/h in a mere 3.5 seconds and onwards to a top speed of 317km/h. While this is only marginally faster than the standard R8 V10 S tronic, the R8 V10 plus' suspension has been tuned to make it sharper around corners to make it faster overall.

At Rs 2,05,95,000, the Audi R8 V10 plus is priced bang in the territory of the Lamborghini Gallardo and Porsche 911 Turbo.

India's most economical executive sedan has added a new J (S) spec variant to its Corolla Altis model which will be available in both petrol and diesel guise. Positioned above the base J diesel variant, the new J (S) will offer buyers two airbags, a touch-screen music system and USB compatibility.

The petrol J (S) trim on the other hand will in fact replace the current base J petrol and will come equipment levels identical to the diesel J (S) spec.

Engine options remain untouched on the diesel car that puts out 88.4PS and also on the 1.8-litre petrol engine that uses an advanced Dual VVT-i system with two separate variable timing mechanisms churning out 140PS @ 6400 rpm and up to 173Nm of torque.

The Toyota Corolla Altis J (S) petrol will sell for price tag of Rs 11.74 lakh, while the J (S) diesel is available for Rs 13.16 lakh. All prices ex-showroom, Delhi.

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When Maruti Suzuki launched the SX4 back in 2007, it was a runaway hit for the Manesar-based company but times have changed a lot since then. A slew of new launches from competitors meant that the SX4 was in a dire need of an upgrade to remain in contention. After months of speculations and rumours, Maruti has finally given the SX4 a facelift with changes made to the cars interiors, exteriors and engine to give some stiff competition to its rivals.

On to the mechanical front, the petrol variant of the SX4 is powered by the same 1.6-litre engine producing 104.7PS at 5600rpm and a peak torque of 145NM at 4100rpm while the 1.3-litre turbo-diesel pumps out 90PS @ 4000 rpm and 200Nm of torque @ 1750 rpm. While both the petrol and diesel engines remain un-tampered with on the new SX4, the point that will impress our mileage obsessed buyers will be the efficiency figures. Maruti has been successful in improving the mileage of the new car by 6 per cent over its predecessor and the petrol variant returns an efficiency figure of 16.5kmpl and its diesel sibling 21.79kmpl (manufacturer figures). The SX4 remains the only model in Maruti's portfolio to have three different engine options and the CNG variant offers a claimed efficiency figure of 22.1km/kg.

Exterior changes on the new SX4 include a more pronounced bumper along with two-tone front grille, fog lamp with dual-tone garnish and electrically foldable outside rear view mirrors with built-in turn indicators. All this features have combined to give the new car a sportier stance and also the length of the car has been increased by 10mm owing to the revised bumper. Apart from the four standard colours the new SX4 gets additional two shades, Serene Blue and Granite Grey.

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The new revised interior on the SX4 boasts of features like dual tone black and beige upholstery on the seats, black and marble finish prints, armrests finished in faux wood and chrome AC side louvers and side handles to give the car a more premium feel. The new SX4 gets optional features like all new touch-screen audio with integrated navigation with Bluetooth which allows features like GPS, Music and messaging to be integrated on the screen. Even though, Maruti have added more features and improved the cars efficiency figures, surprisingly it hasn't increased the new SX4's price as rumored. How much will this facelift will help Maruti in improving the sales of the mid-sized sedan only time will tell, for more news and updates on the car keep visiting our website.

Price list of the new Maruti SX4 (All prices ex-showroom Delhi):

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]]> 0 Arun Mohan Nadar http://www.zigwheels.com/news-features/recent-launches/maruti-suzuki-sx4-facelift-launched/15973/ 2013-03-21 13:41:34 Abhishek Chaliha http://www.zigwheels.com/news-features/recent-launches/2013-range-rover-30litre-tdv6-variant-launched/15909/

The 3.0 V6 diesel Range Rover has been launched in two variants, with prices ranging between Rs 1.44 crore and Rs 1.64 crore (ex-showroom Mumbai) for the HSE and Vogue variants respectively

The Range Rover has been widely regarded as the ultimate SUV money can buy for a while now. And the launch of the 2013 model was a much awaited affair. However, due to the use of expensive materials and garnishing of lavish features combined with import duties, it was priced on the near side of Rs 2 crore in India.

As a result, the launch of the new 3.0 litre V6 engined diesel Range Rover is a welcome move. Priced at Rs 1.44 crore (ex-showroom Mumbai) the base HSE variant of the 2013 Range Rover is an attractive proposition for Range Rover buyers. There is also a more expensive Vogue variant of the 3.0 litre V6 Range Rover that has been priced at Rs 1.64 crore (ex-showroom Mumbai).

The twin turbo charged 3.0 litre V6 diesel engine churns out 258PS of power and 600Nm of torque which is enough to take the luxury SUV from 0-100 km/h in 7.9 seconds and onwards to a top speed of 210 km/h. The engine is mated to an eight speed automatic gearbox which is common on all other Range Rover variants.

The Range Rover 3.0 V6 packs in an extensive list of luxury and safety features as well as a host of driver aids and the legendary Land Rover 4X4 system.

The launch of the 3.0 V6 Range Rover has pushed the total number of Range Rover variants in India up to five, which includes the 3.0 V6 HSE, 3.0 V6 Vogue, 4.4 SDV8 Vogue SE, 4.4 SDV8 Autobiography and the 5.0 V8 petrol Autobiography.

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Maruti Suzuki has given cosmetic updates to its MPV, Eeco which has been titled Eeco Smiles. Exterior refurbishments on the Eeco model include new wheel covers, mud flaps and 'Smiles' decals on the sides and the rear of the vehicle to differentiate it from the standard model. On the insides the Eeco Smiles gets two tone seat covers, new doormats, a double DIN music system with USB compatibility and even some new speakers.

Maruti Suzuki hasn't fiddled with the cars mechanical underpinnings and the Eeco is powered by the same 1196cc, MPI engine pumping 74PS of power and 101Nm of torque which is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. All these additional features can be availed at an extra price of Rs. 9,490 (market price of the accesories is Rs. 15,000) on the selected variant and is a limited period offer. The Eeco smile five-seater with and without air-conditioning has been priced at Rs. 3.63 lakh and 3.32 lakh respectively while the seven seater without air-conditioning is priced at Rs. 3.49 lakh.

Since acquiring the Reva Electric Company back in 2010 Mahindra has been busy reengineering the country's first and only indigenously built road going EV, better known as the Reva into something more than what so far has been merely looked upon as a valiant effort with unimpressive results.

Closely resembling what Mahindra has been teasing us as the Mahindra Reva NXR over the past year has taken production form as the new Mahindra e2o that was unveiled at India Gate, New Delhi amidst the country's massive extended automotive fraternity. The exact scale of the e2o's evolution from the original Reva EV appears to be a massive one and this next-generation all-electric from the house of Mahindra has clearly been built with many considerations in mind ().

Powered by 48V maintenance-free lithium-ion batteries and a 3 Phase induction electric motor the Mahindra e2o produces 19kW@3,750 rpm and 53Nm torque between 0-3400rpm. The two door hatchback has a top speed of 80 km/h; it takes 5 hours to completely charge its batteries and just an hour to charge it enough for 20 km range.

With a full automatic boost mode for quick acceleration and a range of 100 km (80km old Reva) the e2o is now a far more practical city vehicle. Charging the e2o will be a particularly hassle free affair considering it can draw power from 15A power socket available in any home.

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Things have gotten rather high tech with the e2o especially with regards to its integration with smart phones that allows one to remotely access the zero emission vehicle from a smart phone (switching on the AC and locking/unlocking the car). It is also the first vehicle of its kind to offer what the company calls its REVive system, which quickly charges the e2o in an emergency situation through commands given out by your smart phone or a call to RIA (Remote Interactive Assist).

Driver assist features on the tiny Mahindra e2o now include Hill Hold, Courtesy Lights, Follow-me-home headlamps, rear defogger, electric wing mirrors, keyless entry and Start/ Stop, a reverse camera, a digital user manual, and GPS Navigation with preloaded maps ().

A 6.2 inch touch screen infotainment system being offered with the e2o isn't merely a pretty display area for vehicle related information that may concern the driver, but also a CD/DVD/USB/AUX/Micro SD and Bluetooth supported entertainment system which gets the praise worthy backing of 3 JBL speakers and two tweeters. The e2o has been built with a strong focus on safety offering 3 crumple zones, side impact dual beams, ISOFIX Child seat mounts ALR seat belts and 6 energy absorbing structures in the front of the vehicle.

Speaking at the nationwide launch of the new Mahindra e2o, Anand Mahindra, Chairman, Mahindra Group, said, "The Mahindra e2o is the embodiment of a shift from old to new within the automotive industry. It also advances the Mahindra Group's efforts at redefining sustainable urbanization with the creation of an eco system that includes mobility systems along with other environment friendly innovations."

Priced at Rs 5.96 lakh (on-road Delhi) the Mahindra e2o is priced slightly higher than the outgoing Reva but now packs in far more advanced technologies and creature comforts that makes it a far more advantageous urban mobility alternative than the Reva ever was.

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]]> 0 Rahul Basu http://www.zigwheels.com/news-features/recent-launches/mahindra-e2o-launched-at-rs-596-lakh-on-road-delhi/15873/ 2013-03-13 21:13:55 Ravi Ved http://www.zigwheels.com/news-features/recent-launches/land-rover-freelander-2-launched-with-minor-updates/15837/

The Freelander 2, with a starting price of Rs 38.67 lakh (ex-showroom, Mumbai), makes it to the streets after a few cosmetic upgrades inside out

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Land Rover has launched the 2013 Freelander 2 in India at a price tag of Rs 38.67 lakh and Rs 43.92 (ex-showroom, Mumbai) for the 150PS and 190PS respectively. The locally built SUV gets minor upgrades on the outside and inside.

Upfront the Freelander 2 gets all-new LED daytime running headlights and chrome-finish on the fog lamps. At the back, the taillights get Land Rover's typical twin-circular theme. Aside from these cosmetic changes, the Freelander 2 also gets three new colours and 17-inch alloy wheels on the top-spec HSE variant.

Step inside and you will be graced by a revised dash with fewer buttons (so much so that it get keyless start) and an electric parking brake. Further, the Terrain Response system dial gets replaced by a switch. Making the feature list longer, the Freelander 2 now sports a 7-inch touchscreen with satellite navigation system and a Meridian sound system, and a rear view camera as standard fitment.

On the mechanical front, the Freelander 2 will continue to host the same 2.2-litre common-rail turbo diesel powerplant producing 150PS and 190PS and is mated to a six-speed transmission.

Rohit Suri, Vice President, Jaguar Land Rover India, said, "The Freelander 2 has proved to be extremely popular with Indian customers and this new model brings a more premium look and feel to the overall driving experience. This is another step forward for the Freelander 2, where outstanding standard equipment levels, superb design, safety and all-terrain capability continue to set the standards in this class."

While the upgraded SUV looks great, the Rs 38.67 lakh and Rs 43.92 asking price still is a tad too steep when compared to its competitors.

]]> 0 Ravi Ved http://www.zigwheels.com/news-features/recent-launches/land-rover-freelander-2-launched-with-minor-updates/15837/