Delhi Auto Expo 2012 : Tata showcase plans

Tata Motors’ stand at the Auto Expo may turn out to be the busiest. No, not because they’re bringing skimpily-clad models to pose with their cars. Rather, the spotlight will be on a model that’s arguably the most important car launch of 2012: the Nano diesel, which Tata Motors may unveil at the Expo. 

The Nano diesel was first rumoured to launch in September but refinement issues probably led Tata Motors to postpone the rollout. While it isn’t expected to look any different from its recently upgraded petrol sibling, the big change will come in the form of a new two-cylinder, 800 cc common rail diesel engine. Developed in partnership with Bosch, the diesel engine will produce 39 PS – around 4 PS more than the petrol Nano, and deliver an estimated 40 kmpl, making it the most fuel-efficient car in the market. We’ll have to wait and see what pricing strategy Tata Motors adopts though we estimate the Nano diesel to cost 15-20% more than the petrol Nano.

Tata could also be launching the all-new Safari, rumoured as the Merlin. The second-generation Safari has been caught testing in Pune on numerous occasions, which further raises hopes of its launch. The Merlin will sport a 2.2-litre DICOR turbocharged diesel engine as on the Aria though with slightly bumped up power figures. 

Cars to Watch Out For : Tata Nano diesel, All-new Safari

Expected Price Range : Tata Nano diesel : Rs. 2 lakhs – Rs. 2.75 lakhs

All-new Safari : Rs. 8 lakh onwards  

Competition: 

*Ex-showroom Delhi prices