Volkswagen to launch facelifted Jetta and Passat

After the successful launch of Polo and Vento, Volkswagen plans to  strengthen its premium offerings – jetta and passat. Unlike the polo and vento, the premium sedans failed to move customers from the competitors. Strangely, sales of jetta and passat suffered due to Skoda’s (volkswagen sister brand) laura and superb. Volkswagen will launch the facelifted variant of jett and passat in 2011. “Jetta and Passat have become old as they were out in 2007-08 and we are looking at revitalising the models and bringing in face-lifts next year,” said Neeraj Garg, member of board and director (passenger cars), Volkswagen Group Sales India.

However, Volkswagen has said there is no plan to locally produce the Jetta and Passat. The sedans will continue to locally assemble the sedans in India. Volkswagen is also mulling to launch its Tiguan SUV in Indian market.

Nissan to launch NV200 MPV

Nissan today officially said it would launch an MPV in Indian market.  “We are launching a new multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) in joint venture with Ashok Leyland . The MPV model will be launched in line with the market leader Toyota Innova in 2012,” Nissan Motor India Managing Director & CEO Kiminobu Tokuyama said. Many have spotted Nissan’s NV200 being tested in the streets of Chennai. The MPV which Nissan says could be the NV200 van and will be launched in 2010. Nissan NV200 will take on the likes of Toyota Innova, Chevrolet Tavera and Mahindra Xylo.

Nissan could the use the 1.5dCi diesel engine to power the NV200. The logan engine known for its frugal would make Nv200 economical MPV in the segment. The power ratings could be retuned to suit the requirements of bulky Nissan NV200 van.

Yamaha launches FZ1

Yamaha today launched a new superbike in India. FZ1 a litre class motorbike is known for its extreme power.

“While FZ1 is a naked sports bike with fuel-injected power and ‘Pure Torque’ for the ultimate riding experience, SZ-R gives the 150cc commuters segment a sporty edge apart from delivering Power, Comfort and Style. SZ series bikes launched in August 2010 and aggressive pricing of Rs 49,000/- have high demand and are gaining popularity across India. Customers have been demanding inclusion of the disc brake version which is now available in SZ-R. We are confident that our new bike models will once again capture the hearts of our customers and will further consolidate our position in the market”, he added.

FZ1, a power packed sports bike comes with a compact design and 998cc DOHC 20-valve engine tuned for tremendous mid-range punch and massive top-end power. The cast aluminum bodywork and a comfortable handlebar position give the bike great looks while ensuring the comfort of the rider. The closed-deck cylinder block provides great strength while allowing a narrow engine in spite of big 77mm bores. The high silicon-content ceramic-composite cylinder lining reduces friction and maximizes heat dissipation for consistent power delivery. Also, the fuel injection with computer-controlled sub-throttle valves provides precise fuel/air mixture for outstanding power delivery through its broad rpm range while ensuring compliance of all emissions regulations.

Its race-inspired curved radiator with twin ring-style fans keeps everything cool under all conditions. The aggressive chassis geometry with supersport inspired 51 percent front wheel weight bias provides quick and nimble handling. The 320mm front discs aided by mono-block four-piston calipers up front and a single 245mm rear disc serve up strong and consistent stopping power.

Other high-tech prominent features of the bike include analog tachometer, digital speedometer, dual trip meter, odometer, water temperature and lights for neutral, high beam, low fuel and turn signals. The half-cowl fairing design gives aggressive eye-catching naked profile to the bike. The dual 12V 60/55 watt multi-reflector headlight features a sleek profile for superb aerodynamics and visibility.

Yamaha commitment to technologically advanced machines is accentuated by the bike’s cornering acceleration ability which delivers the maximum amount of drive force in the smoothest manner possible. FZ1 is available in 2 color options – Black and White at an ex-showroom price (Delhi) of Rs. 8,70,000/-.

Pictures of Yamaha FZ

Yamaha launches SZ-R

Yamaha today two bikes – SZ-R and FZ1. While SZ-R is an upgraded variant of SZ series, FZ1 is a new superbike from Yamaha India joining R1 and MT-01.

Here are the details of Yamaha SZ-R

The 153cc SZ-R is a modern & sporty version of SZ-X which is a powerful, comfortable and stylish commuter. The muscular SZ-R is targeted at commuter customers with their sports-oriented interests and is designed to create the sensation of “High Speed”. The bike comes with front disc brake, tachometer and has tank protector added to the fuel tank to make it appear even larger. Furthermore, the shroud of the standard SZ-X model is replaced by an aerodynamic spoiler that extends out boldly and is given the same silver coloring as the side covers. The bike also has clear lens flasher, colored handle grip end bar, painted muffler end caps along with special graphics. SZ-R is priced at Rs. 55,500/- (Ex-showroom price – Delhi) and will be available in 3 color options – Quality Black, Quality Red and Quality Blue.

Pictures of Yamaha SZ-R

Tata Nano gets 4 year manufacturer warranty

In a step to lure Nano prospects, Tata today announced slew of offers customer reach out initiatives.  The Tata Nano will now come with a 4-year / 60,000-km (whichever is earlier) manufacturer’s warranty, at no extra cost. Besides being applicable on new deliveries, the warranty is also being extended to all existing owners of the car.

In addition, all new buyers have the option to avail of a comprehensive maintenance contract at only Rs.99 per month. This contract will help customers take care of running maintenance of the car.

These benefits will further enhance the satisfaction of Tata Nano users. Beginning July 2009 when despatches to those who had booked the car started, the company has delivered over 71,000 Tata Nanos. Customer satisfaction studies with current Tata Nano owners indicate that over 80% are satisfied or very satisfied with the car, because of it being small yet spacious, its performance, maneuverability, durability, mileage and safety. Some owners have taken their Tata Nanos on country-wide trips or to altitudes like Khardungla, the world’s highest motorable road.

As reiterated by the company earlier, by dint of its robust design and state-of-the-art components, the Tata Nano provides assured reliability, durability and safety. Tata Motors has made the car even more robust, as announced on November 9, with enhanced features in the car’s electrical and exhaust systems. All new cars being delivered to customers come with these enhanced features. Parallely, existing owners are being offered the option to install these in their cars, at no extra cost.

On financing, customers can avail of options up to 90% at easy rates. A host of financiers have come forward to offer extremely attractive packages.

Mahindra to launch Reva NXR in 2011

Mahindra and Mahindra plans to launch Reva NXR four seater electric vehicle in India in 2011. “We intend to take it to other cities in India. Also, we are all geared up to roll out our four-seater Reva NXR by next year,” said Pawan Goenka, president (automotive & farm equipment sector), M&M Ltd.  Remember, Mahindra also plans to launch Korando, Rexton and W201 world suv in 2011. Mahindra Reva NXR reaches a top speed of 104 kmph while providing a range of 160 km.  The NXR can text you with crucial information such as Time-to-full-change, pre-heat or pre-cool the car, mail you a report on your driving habits or even unlocking the door as you approach. It also features a revolutionary technology that address range anxiety– REVive®, a remotely activated reserve charge will get you going, even when you’ve seemingly out of charge.

GM Chevrolet launches festive Edition Aveo and Aveo U-VA

GM Chevrolet has launched festive edition of aveo and aveo U-VA. The festive special edition Aveo and Aveo U-VA gets cosmetic changes and few new features. Special festive edition aveo gets body coloured door handles, body coloured ORVM with turn indicators, 2 DIN music system with USB port, night vision camera and reverse parking display. Night vision camera and touch screen music system and  reverse parking display are more likeable, isn’t it.

Aveo’s younger sibling aveo U-Va special edition gets rear parking sensor (buzz type), body graphics, body coloured ORVM, body coloured ORVM with turn indicators, 2 DIN music system with USB port and rear spoiler

Mahindra to launch Korando and Rexton in India

The fruit of the Mahindra’s buyout of Korean SUV maker Ssangyong is set to ripe. Indian customer will witness the launch of Ssangyong – Kornado and Rexton SUV soon.  “We will be launching two SUV’s of Ssangyong-Kornado and Rexton-in Indian market by next year end,” M&M President, Automotive & Farm Equipment Sectors, Pawan Goenka said.  Remember, Mahindra will also launch its world suv next year. Blitzkreig from Mahindra and Mahindra for Indian customers. Whether the Korando and Rexton will be launched under the Mahindra brand or Ssangyong brand is yet to be known