aboutcarz

The first generation W202 C-Class was introduced in 1993, as a replacement for the Mercedes-Benz W201 (190)
and proved successful among high-end car buyers. The C-Class sedan was the company’s entry-level model up
until 1997, when Mercedes launched the A-Class. Styling themes were carried over from the previous W201 series,
but the new series had a smoother and rounder design than the previous generation of compact Mercedes.

Engines

On its debut, the C-Class was the only Mercedes model with a complete lineup of multi-valve engines.
The new family of four cylinder petrol units, called M111, debuted in the C 180 (1.8 L, 122 PS (120 hp/90 kW)),
C 200 (2.0 L, 136 PS (134 hp/100 kW) and C 220 (2.2 L, 150 PS (148 hp/110 kW),
the only four cylinder of the range sold in the U.S.). In 1996 the C 220 was replaced by the C 230, enlarged to
2.3 L displacement but with the same output, although with torque increased to 220 N·m (162 lb·ft). .
The top of the range was the C 280, with a four-valve-per-cylinder straight-6 engine, capable of reaching
193 PS (190 hp/142 kW).

Four cylinder diesel models were equipped with the same OM601 engine of the 190, in the 2.0 L and 2.2 L versions.
Many of these diesel variants were sold as taxis, due to their low fuel consumption and strong reliability.
There were also more powerful OM605 five cylinder engines which were available in naturally aspired (C 250 D) and
turbocharged (C 250 TD) forms. The Turbodiesel was introduced in 1995 and is one of the novelties in the engine range
available from this year. The most important was a supercharged version of the M111 straight four, the C 230 Kompressor,
using a Roots-type supercharger to generate 193 PS (190 hp/142 kW) at 5300 rpm: Mercedes-Benz reused supercharger
technology after 50 years. Due to Italian and Portuguese car tax rules, export models in Portugal and Italy featured a
supercharged version of the smaller 2.0 L (C 200 Kompressor), which had a similar output of the C 230 Kompressor.
With the 1997 restyling, a lot of things changed under the hood of the Baby Benz. The most important innovation was the OM611, the first turbodiesel engine equipped with
a common rail direct injection system (co-developed with Bosch). The new model was named C 220 CDI, and had an output improvement of 30 PS compared with the C 220 Diesel,
better fuel average and lower emissions. Another revolution regarded six cylinder engines: the legendary straight six
were replaced by an all new family of V6, the M112. These new engines featured SOHC heads instead of the previous
DOHC, three valves per cylinder instead of four, and twin sparkplugs. The four cylinder C 230 was replaced by
the C 240 (2.4 L) and the I6 C 280 by the V6 C 280. These changes theoretically reduced emissions, and improved
fuel consumption, without sacrificing power (the C 280 in fact had a slight 4 PS increase with the change).
In the last four years of production the W202 received a few changes in the engine range.
In 1998 a less powerful version of the 2.2 L turbodiesel was added, called C 200 CDI, which replaced the C 220 Diesel.
In 2000 the C 200 Kompressor T’s output was cut to 163 PS (161 hp/120 kW), the C 240 T displacement was enlarged
from 2.4 L to 2.6 L, but output remained at 170 PS (168 hp/125 kW) and the C 180 got a 2.0 L engine.

The new Golf is the sixth car to wear the famous badge, Volkswagen playing it relatively safe with the styling of its popular hatchback.

Over 26 million Golfs have been produced in its 34-year production run, the new mk6 model certain to continue that phenomenal success story.

Evolutionary looks hide a safer, more technologically advanced Golf, its styling aiming to combine the Golf lineage’s defining characteristics and bring them up to date.

It’s clear that the Scirocco’s looks have had an influence on the new car, the Golf’s headlamps sharing a similar assertive style to the Golf’s coupe relative.

The simple clean exterior lines are echoed in the Golf’s interior, Volkswagen certain to continue its brand-defining neat interior look and feel with the new car.

In a bid to give the Golf an even more upmarket air the interiors will feature better quality materials and soft-touch plastics.

Under the bonnet will be an updated range of Volkswagens existing petrol and diesel engine line-up, all certain to feature improvements in economy and emissions.

Standard specifications levels will increase to compete with recently introduced rivals, the new Golf promising new safety, entertainment and comfort equipment across the range.

The new Golf should drive better than ever too, Volkswagen expected to offer Adaptive Chassis Control (ACC) that alters chassis, steering and throttle responses between more sporting and comfort-orientated settings.

That trick chassis technology is likely to come as standard on the more sporting Golfs in the range, these expected to be announced shortly after the launch of the standard cars.

Traditional Golf design features, such as the rising waistline and chunky C-pillars, are set to continue, while changes are inspired by the forthcoming Tiguan SUV. Its new grille features a pair of distinctive horizontal bars, while the redesigned, squared-off headlamps are narrower than before. At the back, the light clusters are more angular.

According to insiders, the new Golf will use the existing car’s platform, but feature a less complicated multi-link rear suspension set-up. This move is to reduce production times, leading to big cost savings for the manufacturer during the build process.

Engines will be carried over from the existing line-up, although a turbo­charged 120bhp 1.4-litre motor will replace the current 1.6 FSI petrol unit. The new powerplant will debut in the Golf Estate later this year.

The clever turbo and supercharged 1.4-litre TSI will still be offered, while performance fans will welcome the next-generation GTI. It may also benefit from a larger-capacity version of the advanced TSI engine.

There’s good news, too, for buyers keen on VW’s innovative twin-clutch DSG gearbox, as selected engines will benefit from a new seven-speed version of the advanced transmission.

Its taller top gear offers improved economy and refinement at cruising speeds, while the dry clutch system provides improved efficiency and performance over the existing wet clutch set-up. However, it is limited to use on units with outputs up to 168bhp and 250Nm of torque. The diesel engine range is also set to continue, while the four-wheel-drive R32 flagship version will keep its 3.2-litre V6.

In order to extend the model’s appeal even further, VW is responding to eco-conscious motorists by bringing out an ultra-frugal, low-emissions BlueMotion derv version. It features lightweight materials and taller gearing, as seen in the 70mpg VW Polo we drove in Issue 950 and the Passat we tried in Issue 959.

The existing Golf Plus and Estate won’t get the MkVI treatment just yet, but three and five-door variants of the new Golf are set to make their world debuts at the Geneva Motor Show next March, before the line-up arrives in UK dealers in autumn 2008. Prices have yet to be announced.

As the latest star in a rapidly expanding portfolio of green, high-tech products, the all-new BYD e6 electric vehicle is being unveiled at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The five-passenger e6 will be marketed as a family-oriented crossover vehicle.

The pure-electric e6 features BYD’s revolutionary battery technology - what we call the Fe battery. The range per charge is expected to be a remarkable 249mi (400km). Performance is surprisingly brisk, with 0-60mph (0-100km/h) acceleration in less than 8 seconds and a projected top speed of 100mph (160km/h).The e6 features BYD’s “Fe” battery which receive a 50% recharged in a claimed ten minutes. Granted, the remaining 50% requires another hour or so, but half a charge is good for about 125 miles, which should ease customers’ range anxiety. The e6 has a simple but pleasant shape and adequate room inside, so if the price is right, it could attract a broad demographic of buyers — and that’s what BYD is counting on. Check the e6’s press release is after the jump.

The Right Size
What sets the e6 apart from other pure electric vehicles are its size and performance. With current battery capacity limited, most other manufacturers have elected to focus on small, lightweight EVs that stress efficiency over performance and range.

BYD, as a young brand with a rich history of IT development and cutting-edge battery R&D, has the drive and extroverted personality to take an unconventional approach and manufacture cars that embody the company’s slogan, Build Your Dreams. That’s the spirit and underlying philosophy behind the e6.

The high-tech e6 boasts the exterior dimensions of a typical American family vehicle, with ample interior space that provides substantial legroom and headroom for passengers, plus a generous luggage compartment. The e6 measures 179.3 inches (4554mm) long, 71.7 inches (1822mm) wide and 64.2 inches (1630mm) tall.

Convenient and Eco-Friendly
The pure-electric e6 is environmentally friendly, eliminating toxic emissions and greenhouse gases while driving. BYD’s new Fe battery takes this “green” philosophy a step further: All chemical substances used in the battery can be recycled.

And while the range of many electric vehicles is restricted by their battery capacity, making it inconvenient to travel long distances, the BYD e6, with its high-efficiency Fe battery, can go up to 249 miles (400km) on a single charge. That makes the e6 suitable for daily commutes, around-town chores and even long journeys.

The Fe battery pack in the e6 can be quick-charged to 50 percent of itscapacity in 10 minutes, and 100 percent of its capacity in 60 minutes.

e6 SPECIFICATIONS

Length in (mm)
179.3 (4554)

Width in (mm)
71.7 (1822)

Height in (mm)
64.2 (1630)

Wheelbase in (mm)
111.4 (2830)

Curb Weight lb (kg)
4453 (2020)

Output hp (kw)
268 (200)

Torque lb-ft (Nm)
406 (550 )

Range mi (km)
249 (400)

0-60mph Acceleration (sec)
< 8s

Top Speed mph (kph)
100 (160)

Recharge Time (quick charge)
50% in 10min

Utility vehicle major Mahindra & Mahindra launched its multi-purpose vehicle Xylo at its Nashik plant on Tuesday.

Xylo, with its competitive price ranging from Rs 6.24 lakh to Rs 7.69 lakh, is pitched against not only MPV (multi-purpose vehicle) market leader Toyota Innova but also midsize sedans including Ford Fiesta and Maruti SX4.
Mr Anand Mahindra, Vice-Chairman and Managing Director, Mahindra & Mahindra, reiterated the pre-launch advertising slogan for Xylo – “the era of sedan is under serious threat.”

According to Mr Mahindra, comparatively lower price and additional comforts it offers would help Xylo beat the current downtrend in the automotive market.

“There is clearly pressure on market all around world. But if you come out with right product at right price, there is a huge overhang of demand that you can capitalise,” said Mr Mahindra.
A NEW PLATFORM

Xylo, which was under development for four and a half years, is coming out of an all-new platform called Ingenio. It is six and a half years since Mahindra launched a new platform in the UV segment.

“The entire product development has cost Rs 550 crore,” said Mr Pawan Goenka, President, Automotive Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra. “The product development process has improved significantly in the last six and a half years. We hadn’t got everything right the first time when we launched Scorpio. We have got everything right in Xylo the first time.”

Mahindra has the capacity to produce 25,000 units of Xylo a year which, the company officials said, can be ramped up based on demand. “We are assembling Xylo and Scorpio on the same line. So we have got that flexibility,” said Mr Goenka.
GLOBAL LAUNCH

He said that Xylo will have its global launch in South Africa by the end of this financial year. The product will later be launched in other markets, including Europe where tougher emission standards are in place, he said.

Xylo will be available in 57 select Mahindra dealerships in January and another 44 from February.

While Toyota’s low-end Innova E costs Rs 7.60 lakh, the low-end version of Mahindra MPV, Xylo E2, at Rs 6.24, comes with greater comforts including power steering, power windows and central locking. Toyota’s high-end Innova G4 is priced Rs 9.29 lakh while Mahindra’s high-end variant Xylo E8 costs Rs 7.69 lakh and offers additional comforts including digital drive assist system and flatbed front seats, said Mr Rajesh Jejurikar, Chief of Operations, Mahindra & Mahindra.

The XYLO has been created with customers for developing a vehicle around the lifestyle and aspirations of its end-customer, it said. The vehicle has gone through testing in India and other countries, Mahindra said. “XYLO has been developed by a team consisting of 160 experts who have created new benchmarks in styling, technology and performance,” Mahindra Auto President Mr Pawan Goenka said in a release.Xylo has gone through testing in India and other countries and pictures of disguised Xylo is freely available in net. Xylo is expected to be priced between Rs6.5 lakh to Rs7.5 lakh and will compete with Toyota Innova and upcoming Tata Indicruz Crossover. Mahindra will launch the Xylo by December 2008.

Mahindra’s earlier launched Voyager van jointly with Mitsubishi in the MPV segment. 10-seater Voyager was originally sold as a family vehicle, it was later touted as an ambulance and even a mini-bus but none of the variants went well with Indian customers. Voyager was found to be steeply priced and failed. After the failure of Voyager, Mitsubishi departed from Mahindra alliance and joined hands with Hindustan Motors.

As we earlier reported Xylo may also gets a petrol engine in addition to the Common rail diesel engine. For Xylo, Mahindra may source the petrol engine from its logan partner Renault. The common rail would be the 2.6L one which is already doing duty in Scropio. Xylo’s engine would produce 100bhp+ max power and 283Nm of max torque. Xylo will also get Mahindra’s latest Fuelsmart technology. Mahindra already said that the MUV being built on Ingenio platform (Xylo) will get this system. Micro hybrid variants of Xylo may also be out at the time of launch. Xylo is built on an all new platform and will be an eight seater MPV. As the Xylo will exported to other countries, it is known that Mahindra has paid special attention to the quality of the materials used in Xylo.

The Scorpio is a good example of Indian design caliber; its beefy masculine stances and exploding engine guarantee a second look. The huge hulky car stands out in a crowd. It is available in 3 diesel variants - 2.6 LX, SLE and M2DI. The LX and SLE are powered by a 70 bhp 2.6-litre turbocharged diesel engine on the and a same size 115 bhp turbocharged DI engine on the M2DI. With more refinements from A-Z, the new Scorpio is definitely improved. It gets 6 bhp more and the third gear is taller, which makes it faster. Fuel economy in city and sprinting capacity has also been improved, and the engine is now quieter.

Mahindra&Mahindra recently introduced a pick-up variant ‘Getaway’ that is perfectly suited to the changing lifestyles and tastes of people opting for SUVs in India. The new design targets youths who are obsessed with rough and tough SUVs to go on adventure trips and outings with friends and family.

The Getaway variant comes with superb off-road capabilities, excellent towing capability and cargo space, and generous interiors. It is offered either in two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive configurations. The 2.6L engine is the same as that on the other variants of the Scorpio. It is coupled to a 5-speed manual transmission. The most distinguished feature on the Getaway is its big and uniquely shaped loading bay which is greatly useful in hauling huge quantities of cargo.

With not many visible exterior changes, the Scorpio has undergone some cosmetic changes inside. All the refinements made, are to push the vehicle through the Bharat III norms. Mahindra’s in-house design and the latest refinements are welcome, making the Scorpio better.

Powertrain & Performance

The improved 5-speed manual gearbox has some advantages; the sprinting speed has improved considerably and gear shifting throws are shorter. The 2.2-liter CRDe and the 2.6-litre direct-injection turbocharged engine with a Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDi) engine system make the vehicle quicker at passing with increased bhp and smoothness. The light weight mHawk engine delivers fuel impressive efficiency and an innovatively designed two-stage chain system of hydraulic lash to cut down engine noise levels significantly.

The optional four-wheel-drive has been discontinued. The five link zero friction rear suspension and the independent front suspension give a smoother ride. The car has quicker responses; its steering and stability at high speeds have been improved. Earlier Scorpio had a leaf spring suspension which was not best fitting to the car, later Mahindra have finally fitted the Scorpio with much needed coil spring suspension. This hi-tech suspension used in Scorpio proves the advanced engineering perfection of Mahindra.

The aggressive stance is prominent from every angle of the vehicle. It has macho touches and gives a feel of strength and ruggedness. Though the rugged and sturdy Getaway is built in pick-up truck style, it leaves an impression of being set to take on anything that comes in its way.

The number plate is repositioned with a modified grille, which gives more breathing space to the engine. The hood, bumpers and lines extending from the front wheel fenders to the rear fenders are all muscular. The large wheel wells gel with its beefy structure. The VLX stands on alloy wheels and comes standard with an anti-lock braking system (ABS), an engine immobilizer, a cruise control system, and solar glasses.

The interiors of the Scorpio are plush, and the well-sculpted steering wheel has enough grips and can be tilted. The dashboard is convenient with attractive gauges and controls, seeking no effort to read the gauges. The bucket seats are comfortable, with individual armrests in the front row and movable middle row for increasing the legroom with common arm rest. The air vents and legroom in the rear have scope for improvement. It needs to be more spacious for taller passengers, despite the raised roofline at the tail to increase headroom. Scorpio offers comfortable seating for 5 persons and offers well designed fabric seats with fire-resistant upholstery. It comes with a host of good features such as individual armrests on 1st row seats, tiltable power steering, power windows, central locking and swivel interior lamps.

The all-new Ford Fusion Hybrid is now officially America’s most fuel efficient mid-size car with a certified 41 mpg rating in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, topping the Toyota Camry hybrid by 8 mpg in the city and 2 mpg on the highway.

“The new Ford Fusion Hybrid not only significantly exceeds the competition but also embodies Ford’s 100 percent commitment to fuel efficiency leadership, quality, innovation and advanced technology,” said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development. “The Ford team set the bar high – to develop America’s most fuel efficient mid-size sedan – and that’s what they delivered.”

The 2010 Ford Fusion’s final fuel economy certification was completed this week at Ford’s testing laboratories in Allen Park, Mich., and the vehicle will carry an EPA label of 41 mpg for city driving and 36 mpg on the highway when it goes on sale this spring. The Fusion Hybrid, which beats even the much smaller Honda Civic hybrid by 1 mpg in city driving, can travel more than 700 miles on a single tank of gas.

To deliver the class leading fuel economy performance, Ford’s engineers spent the past three years developing in-house the vehicle’s next-generation hybrid propulsion system. It allows the Fusion and Mercury Milan hybrid to travel up to 47 miles per hour in pure electric mode, faster than the Toyota Camry and all other hybrids currently on the road. In addition, the system’s Advanced Intake Variable Cam Timing allows the Fusion and Milan hybrids to more seamlessly transition from gas to electric mode and vice-versa.

“The Fusion Hybrid’s ability to run at a much higher speed in electric mode allows drivers to maximize fuel efficiently in many driving situations,” said Praveen Cherian, Fusion Hybrid program leader. “For example, this would allow drivers to travel around their subdivision and parking areas in all-electric mode.”

Fusion’s advanced hybrid system features:

* Smaller, lighter nickel-metal hydride battery, which produces 20 percent more power than Ford’s previous hybrid system. The battery’s improved chemistry allows it to be run at a higher temperature and cooled using cabin air.
* New 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine (155 horsepower / 136 lb.-ft. of torque), which is mated to an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission.
* Enhanced electronic throttle control, which reduces airflow on shutdowns, reducing fueling needs on restarts.
* Smart climate control system, which monitors cabin temperature and only runs the gas engine as needed to heat the cabin. It also includes an electric air conditioning compressor to further minimize engine use.
* Regenerative brake system, which captures the energy normally lost through friction in braking and stores it. Nearly 94 percent energy recovery is achieved by delivering full regenerative braking, which means only 6 percent of braking is through traditional friction brakes

SmartGauge Teaches Eco-Driving
The new Fusion Hybrid literally teaches drivers how to make the most out of their vehicle, thanks to Ford’s SmartGauge with EcoGuide. SmartGauge is a unique instrument cluster that helps coach drivers on how to optimize the performance of their hybrid.

SmartGauge with EcoGuide features two, high-resolution, full-color liquid crystal display screens on either side of the vehicle’s speedometer. The screens can be configured to show different levels of driver information, including fuel and battery power levels, and average and instant miles-per-gallon.

When set in tutorial mode, the instrument panel “grows” leaves and vines on-screen to reward fuel-efficient driving. The more leaves and vines that appear, the more efficient the driving behavior is and the more fuel is being saved. In some recent tests, automotive journalists have reported exceeding 50 mpg with the Fusion Hybrid.

The Ford Fusion Hybrid also is distinct on the outside with Ford’s “road and leaf” badges on both sides and the rear, unique 17-inch, eight-spoke wheels, and a unique engine cover. On the inside, Fusion Hybrid features eco-friendly seat fabric made from post-industrial 100 percent recycled materials and a standard 110-volt power outlet.

Ford Fusion features:

Engine
Ford Fusion, just launched in India has an advanced Duratec Engine. The 16 Valve, 1.6 L, light weight alloy block engine generates a maximum power of 101 ps. The engine for the car has been developed and calibrated specifically for Ford Fusion to provide a balanced combination of driveability and low emissions. With an aluminium block and head, it is one of the smallest, lightest and the latest of the engine designs from the Ford family.

Power Steering
Both the variants of Ford Fusion come with hydraulically operated and power-assisted steering system. The steering assist characteristics have been optimised to provide comfort leading in its class in India, in parking and driving, together with smooth and progressive feedback at cornering.

A versatile and spacious car
The Fusion’s interior blends fresh ideas with established concepts. Seating up to five adults comfortably, the car’s the 60:40 split rear seats enable you to carry both passengers and luggage simultaneously. Generous head, shoulder and leg room in the car ensures a comfortable and relaxed journey.

Ford Fusion+

In addition to all the features of Fusion, Fusion+ offers eye-catching styling, standard alloy wheels, standard audio CD system, and an option of ABS.

Exterior Styling
Fusion+ sports body colored outside mirrors, rear and front bumper cladding, body colored door handles and tailgate handle. The look is further accentuated by stylish body colored wheel arch and rocker panel cladding.

Alloy Wheels
Alloy wheels come as a standard fitment in Fusion+. Besides imparting impressive looks to the Fusion+ they also help in vehicle performance by virtue of them being stronger and more light weight as compared to normal steel wheels - a definite benefit on Indian roads.

Audio System
The Fusion+ comes fitted with an Audio CD player and radio system, so that you may enjoy music every second on the move. The CD system is connected to 4 factory fitted speakers that provide the right acoustics for your enjoyment.

Fusion : Price 6.2 Lakhs (Ex-showroom Delhi, India)

Fusion+: Price Rs. 6.95 Lakhs(Ex Showroom Delhi, India)

Fusion+ with ABS: Price Rs. 7.24 Lakhs (Ex Showroom Delhi)

Fiat India has plans to launch Fiat Grande Punto shortly. Fiat Grande Punto is a premium B-segment category car that is highly successful in Europe. Designed by the famous Giorgetto Giugiaro of Italdesign, Fiat Grand Punto was given the Euro NCAP five-star rating for passenger safety. It is an attractive and spacious car which suits your personality.

The styling of the Grande Punto stands out in the current automotive scene for the beauty of the exterior line, which is modern, elegant and distinctly ‘Italian’, a ‘Mediterranean’ stylistic language where the tapered rounded lines seem to be inspired by the sports cars of the 1950s and 1960s.
This is a car created to ‘excite’, but also to express the solidity that comes from superb quality standards. This is borne out by extremely high safety standards, attention to detail that is unusual in this market bracket, and exceptional comfort.

It would probably have 1.3-litre multi-jet diesel engine that would be manufactured by the Suzuki-GM-Fiat alliance engine plant. Fiat may also shorten the present length of Grande Punto, which is 4030mm, by 30mm so that it can comply with the new small car regulations and take advantage of an 8 percent excise saving.
Inside, heavily bolstered sports seats provide plenty of support during cornering, and are comfortable on long journeys. The chunky leather steering wheel is a joy to hold, while the dashboard design is simple and well laid out. The punto is preceded with “Grande” to indicate its larger size.
Fiat claim the interior represents the epitome of Italian style it means being able to get in and out of the car easily and comfortably, and once you are sitting down, it means being surrounded by an airy environment, enjoying its generous space and greater visibility. The cabin has a few storage areas and a luggage organiser can be bought as an accessory which also raises the floor of the boot so it becomes flat with the rear seats folded and also acts as a box to hide valuables.
Grande Punto feels well made and although the hard plastics aren’t that nice to touch, they look quite attractive and can be chosen with some vibrant colour schemes to add a sense of fun to the interior. Finding the ideal driving position is easy thanks to the great range of steering and seat adjustment but the thick two-pronged windscreen pillars can obscure visibility at the front.
It represents superb value in the small car sector and very few rivals can match it’s low prices and generous kit levels. Styling, emotion, comfort, safety and a good price: these are the guidelines along which the Grande Punto was developed; a car created for young adults, the very young, new active women, and small modern families. To meet the requirements of this heterogeneous public, the Grande Punto proposes typically Italian styling.

Tata Indica, when launched 10 years ago, was the first “true” Indian hatch. It has come a long way since but the recent auto expo showed us a new version, not just mere face lifts but more powerful engines, bigger, better interiors and improved quality.
First launched in 1998, the Indica model has achieved leadership in its class and became the second largest selling model in the segment this year, notching up a sale of 144,690 units in 2007-2008. So far, 1.12 million Indica cars have rolled out. Vista is Tata Motor’s first all new passenger car platform after the original Indica platform which spawned a whole gamut of vehicles including the Indigo and Indigo XL Sedan, Indigo Marina the station wagon and most recently the Indigo CS.
The most prominent new features of Indica Vista are:

1) Swept back headlamp cluster.
2) Full length tail lamp cluster, making the car overall sleeker and smoother.
3) Centrally mounted instrument cluster like in Chevrolet Spark.
4) All new bumbers.
5) Space for double size music system.
6) Perfect thigh support and the cabin feels as good as Honda Cars.

Indica Vista sports dynamic and flowing lines which distinguishes it from the previous generation Indica. Except for the name and the layout everything seems different. If the new sweeping headlamp cluster fails to catch your attention, then the chrome handles is sure to catch everyone’s eye.Tata has intentionally retained the family look and the new Indica vista is a clear evolution of the Indica. A new central character line on the bonnet gives character to the car. The all new grille with a new striking pedal shaped headlamps gives the indica vista a more upmarket look.
As most of you may remember, Tata unveiled the new Indica during the Auto Expo earlier this year. It looks like a grown up and better looking Indica. This now looks like a proper supermini. The winged shape headlight cluster looks striking and the crease on the bonnet gives it a unique identity. The side profile is more rounded than before but the core DNA of the original Indica remains.
There is not much change in side and rear profile of the car. The top end variant Indica vista aura gets a big wheels and body colored handles.However the full length pillar mounted tail lamp is an eyesore. But more than the exteriors, the interiors of new Indica Vista will be more exciting.
The ergonomic seating position, distinctive centrally mounted instrument panel, comfortable seats, generous space and more importantly the quality buttons, fit and finish will convey the Indian customers that Tata Motors has come of age. Tata has been fine tuning the car for a longer time to upgrade its quality and thereby to give the car an upmarket feel. Indica vista will also come with host of special features. The exterior features includes fog lamps and rear wiper.
Similar to any other Tata products, the Indica vista comes with host of comfort features and minimal safety features. An integrated CD player is surely likeable feature and is increasing finds a place in entry level cars. The Indica vista gets a 2-DIN integrated CD player with USB port and remote control. Other comfort and luxury features includes front fog lamps, rear fog lamps, body coloured bumpers & door handles, de-mister, rear wipers, power windows for all doors, dual tone dashboard, Tachometer, height adjustable driver seat, lumbar adjustable front seats & 60:40 flodable rear seats.

Inside, the Indica Vista offers a much improved experience to the driver. It is more spacious, and the Vista is bit wider and longer than the last-generation Indica. Adjustable driver seat and steering wheel, better door handles and a centrally mounted speedo are the most noticeable changes. The Tata Indica was already quite spacious, and now the wheelbase has increased by 70 mm and the car is longer by 120 mm.

For the first time, the car will feature engines from partner Fiat. A new 1.2-litre petrol engine called Saffire and the 1.3-litre common-rail diesel called Quadrajet will be part of the lineup, apart from Tata’s own 1.4-litre turbo diesel engine. The petrol version of the Indica Vista is seriously underpowered, we think. It is not a light car, and a 65 bhp petrol engine is not the way to go here.

The Quadrajet is also called the multijet and is also being produced by Maruti Suzuki Powertrain for the Swift and Swift Dzire models. The engines along with the cars will be assembled at Tata-Fiat’s Ranjangaon facility that boasts of an annual production capacity of 200,000 cars and 300,000 engines. A total investment of Rs 4,020 crore is being made by the 50:50 combine in Ranjangaon, Maharashtra.On safety front it is a major disappointment that neither ABS or airbags are offered in the Indica Vista. Considering the traffic situation on our roads and lawlessness, this is a major sin in my opinion. There are Indica models already offering airbags and ABS, so it reflects badly on Tata to offer a newer, better and more sophisticaled version in the Vista without them.

The Swift finally has some competition and good one at that. Tata has learnt a lot over the years with their original Indica and it shows. The Vista is not just a good improvement, it is actually a good car. The Vista does everything the Swift does and is better in some areas particularly the space department. You get more kit as well and at a price lower than the Swift.

The car comes with a segment best 24 months (75,000 km) warranty and will be available in a range of seven colours in seven variants priced at Rs.3,53,000 (ex-showroom Mumbai) for the 1.2L petrol Safire at the low end, going up to Rs.4,99,000 (ex-showroom Delhi) for the top end 1.3L Quadrajet.

The existing Tata Indica will continue to exist with a rationalized portfolio - the lower versions of the 1.2L Xeta and the 1.4L naturally aspirated TDi diesel and one version each of the DICOR and TCIC diesel, the latter being available with ABS and Airbags. Between the existing Indica V2 and the new Indica Vista range, customers will have a choice at every step of the Rs.2,60,000- 4,99,000 price range.
Engine options in Indica Vista:

1172cc Petrol Safire
-Maximum Power: 65bhp
-Maximum Torque: 96Nm

1248cc Quadrajet Diesel
-Maximum Power: 75bhp
-Maximum Torque: 190Nm

1405cc Turbo Diesel Injection (TDi)
-Maximum Power: 71bhp
-Maximum Torque: 135Nm

Tata Indica Vista Variants:

1) Terra - Available in 1.2 Safire Petrol & 1.4 TDi.
2) Aqua - Available in 1.2 Safire Petrol, 1.4 TDi & 1.3 Quadrajet.
3) Aura - Available in 1.2 Safire Petrol &1.3 Quadrajet.

It’s tipped as the next big sting from M&M after the Scorpio. Code-named Ingenio, it has been officially named as ‘Xylo’ - the new platform currently under development will be a Rs 550 crore project for the utility vehicles marketleader.
Xylo will also tie-in with several new projects in M&M including a new diesel engine, a greenfield plant and a rejig of the current portfolio at the lower end. The new plant could be a combo facility to ease capacity bottlenecks across M&M’s product range.
Currently its 150,000 units capacity in Nasik is slotted for the Scorpio, Bolero and the yet-to-be-launched Xylo and Logan while its 70,000-80,000 unit Haridwar plant makes three-wheelers.
The 50,000 unit Kandivli plant makes pick-ups and soft tops and the 50,000 unit Zaheerabad plant makes commercial vehicles.M&M is likely to offer the Xylo as a hybrid option.
M&M’s automotive sector president Pawan Goenka had said that the Xylo will come with a variety of engine options, including the M&M’s indigenously developed common rail direct injection diesel engine.
Mahindra and Mahindra is believed to be working with a combination of diesel and battery-operated hybrid for Xylo. The end result is it would give a distinct advantage to the Xylo with an extremely low cost of running.
Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (M&M), India’s leader in utility vehicles, today announced that it would unveil the all new Mahindra Xylo (Zy-lo) in the current quarter. The Mahindra Xylo is the brand name for Project Ingenio developed in-house by Mahindra post the success of the Scorpio.
The much awaited Mahindra Xylo has been co-created with customers for developing a vehicle around the lifestyle and luxury aspirations of its end customer.
Mr. Anand Mahindra, Vice-Chairman and Managing Director, Mahindra Group, said “We are all set to create a new milestone with the launch of the Mahindra Xylo which will continue Mahindra’s legacy of customer-centric innovation. I am confident that the Xylo will follow in the Scorpio’s footsteps and evolve into an iconic brand.”
Dr. Pawan Goenka - President Automotive Sector M&M said, “Xylo has been developed by a Project team consisting of 160 experts who have created new benchmarks in terms of styling, technology and performance. The team deployed the ReFinE methodology aimed at creating emotional surplus. Mahindra Xylo, extensively tested and validated for Real World usage in India and many other countries, is sure to delight the Customer’s ‘Senses’.
Mr. Rajesh Jejurikar, Chief of Operations, Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd., added, “The brand name Xylo is trendy and contemporary, implies luxury, high fashion, technology and creates a futuristic connect.”I really, really hope that the rumours about the Mahindra Xylo’s looks are wrong. I have come across a few spy shots of the Xylo where it sported that Scorpio-Bolero grill with that garish chrome garnishing in the middle. The Scorpio’s vertical grill barely looks tolerable on the Scorpio front; on an MPV like the Xylo, it could be positively negative!
The rest of the Mahindra Xylo looks like its top competitor, the Toyota Innova. the rear looks a little less clean that the Innova’s. I personally think the Innova itself looks like a big fat steel pig - but it is a good-looking pig. I am not so sure about the shape of the Xylo from what I have seen so far.
But if Mahindra really thinks that they can get away by sticking on that ugly Bolero grille on the face of the Xylo, on behalf of all people with a sense of aesthetics, I hereby record my protest and promise to always hire an Innova instead of a Mahindra Xylo. Listen to me, no Mahindra grille. Delay the launch if you want, but just because that Scorpio grille looks a bit like Anand Mahindra’s moustache, it does not make it automatically suitable on an MPV!
Mahindra has launched Xylo in 4 variants E2, E4, E6 & E8. It is available in eight attractive colours:

- Fiexy black
- Reador red
- Java brown
- Minty green
- Lucky lilar
- Gold shimmer
- Rocky beige
- Mist silver