Volkswagen up! to be launched by mid-2013

Expected: Mid 2013, Price: Rs. 4-6 lakh

Volkswagen is expected to launch its smallest car up! in India by mid-2013. The three body styles include a 2-door hatchback, 4-door hatchback version and 4-door wagon with a longer wheelbase. In India, the petrol variant will be powered by a 1.2-litre 4-cylinder engine producing 76PS of power and 183Nm of torque, mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox.

The diesel variant will be powered by the 0.8-litre 2-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 52PS of power and 100Nm of torque, mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. The concept features 18-inch alloys and wider wheel arches. The Indian version will feature disc brakes at the front and rear drum brakes.

The dashboard of the up! Space concept will sport an 8-inch monitor displaying fuel level, range, and speed while another 17-inch monitor will display climate, multi-media and navigation system controls. The Indian version will have fewer safety features and spartan interiors to price it below the Polo.