Delhi Auto Expo 2012: GM Showcase Plans

GM has lined up some important launches including the face-lifted Chevrolet Captiva. The SUV made its European debut earlier this year and was raved about for its sporty, muscular looks. The Captiva’s front is now adorned by a large split grille as on the Beat and Cruze. Other improvements include refreshed headlamps, restyled bumpers and chrome-ringed taillights. Must say, the Captiva, in its latest incarnation looks captivating, indeed! Toyota is doing well to adopt a just in time approach in bringing a refreshed Fortuner to counter the Captiva threat. About time Ford Endeavour is packed off to the green room as well.

But the changes to the Captiva aren’t merely cosmetic. So out goes the 2-litre, 150 PS diesel engine for a peppier 2.2-litre CRDI diesel mill that puts out 165 PS and 350 NM of torque. Mated to a six-speed manual and automatic transmission, the face-lifted Captiva will be available in both 2WD and AWD options.

GM may also lift the wraps off its new Sail hatchback, seen as the successor to the not-so successful Aveo U-VA successor. The car has been co-developed by GM China and SAIC for emerging markets like China, Brazil and India. In fact, it’s already on sale in China in both hatch and sedan variants and may see an India launch around April 2012. The Sail’s design isn’t groundbreaking, with GM sticking to a safe, conservative styling. To keep costs under check, the Sail may borrow parts extensively from the Beat, including even the 1.2-litre petrol engine that produces 80.5 PS and 108 NM of torque. GM may also bring a 1.3-litre Multijet diesel engine later keeping in mind rising petrol costs and the growing demand for diesel vehicles. The Sail will be positioned just above the Beat and will lock horns with the Maruti Swift, Ford Figo and Volkswagen Polo.

Car enthusiasts can also look forward to seeing the Chevrolet Camaro and the 289 PS Cruze WTCC Cup car at the GM stand.

Cars to Watch Out For: Face-lifted Chevrolet Captiva, Chevrolet Sail, Chevrolet Camaro and Cruze WTCC Cup car

Expected Price Range: Face-lifted Chevrolet Captiva : Rs. 18 lakhs – Rs. 22 lakhs, Chevrolet Sail : Rs. 4.5 lakhs – Rs 6.5 lakhs

Competition:

*Ex-showroom Delhi prices