the Royal Challenge
Yes, after B,B+ and B++ yet another Hatchback segment is going to evolve in India. Fiat has officially confirmed that it will launch its two door lifestyle car Fiat 500 Cinquecento and Bravo in India soon. “These cars (Cinquecento and Bravo) will pave the way for two of our mainstream launches, the Fiat Linea sedan and the Grande Punto hatchback which will be launched in September and December 2008 respectively,” said a Fiat spokesperson. “We expect to sell the Fiat 500 to people who want to make an automotive statement but don’t want to show-off with another big limousine,” the Fiat spokesperson added. “We expect it to be a hit with the celebrity circuit and trendsetters in the metros since they are aware of the value a genuine lifestyle statement the 500 makes.” An 1.4L petrol engine developing 100bhp will power the Fiat 500 Cinquecento.
BMW which has been conducting a feasibility study for the introduction of Mini in India seems to made up its mind. “We are now finalising the details and we think there is a small yet definite market for Mini in India. But do not expect it to be cheap,” said Peter Kronschnabl, President of BMW India.
European ‘people’s car,’ Volkswagen’s Beetle will hit Indian roads by the middle of this year. “Volkswagen is known as Beetle in India. We have studied the market and feel that there is space for Beetle. We are planning to make it available in the middle of this year through imports,” Prinz said. Volkswagen Beetle will be available in 1.9 litre TDI diesel variant as early as April-May this year.
These cars is sure to push Indian’s love on hatchback to a new extent. But there will be only few takers as these cars will be priced upwards Rs15 lakhs