Tata Merlin – 2011 safari

We have been reporting you that Tata plans major revamap in its utility vehicle portfolio. Following the Aria might be the next generation Safari called Merlin. In 2011, Tata will launch a facelifted version of existing safari and Merlin (next gen safari). Tata merlin is being built on the Aria crossover platform and is expected to hosts sci-fi features such as ESP, side airbags, and traction control. Tata Merlin is expected to be launched during first half of 2011. Tata will also launch a facelifted version of existing variant which will be sold along with Tata merlin

Mahindra to enter motoGP

Mahindra and Mahindra which is always known for its aggressive and path-breaking marketing ideas will soon unwrap another. This time through the Mahindra2wheelers – new baby in the Indian two wheeler industry. Mahindra which sells rodeo,duro, stallio and mojo in Indian market plans to participate in the 2011 motoGP. MotoGP would be an excellent platform for Mahindra 2wheelers to showcase its prowess and rub shoulders with industry behemoths. Mahindra will run for the 125cc class motoGP championship. Remember, motoGP may come to india in 2012 following the F1 race in Delhi Jaypee circuit.

Mahindra to launch Thar

As you read it vicky.in last year, Mahindra Thar will be available in nearby Mahindra showrooms shortly. Mahindra and Mahindra plans to bring its iconic Jeep (though under different badge) to the Indian market. The Thar which Mahindra showcased the Thar concept at  Bologna Motor Show. Mahindra Thar comes modern 4 cylinders  2,500 cc turbodiesel with direct injection, common-rail and intercooler,producing 107kW. Mahindra Thar is expected to be priced around Rs6 lakhs. Thar will follow the commander and jeep to enthuse the customers.Mahindra will launch the Thar before the end of December

Triumph to launch bikes in India

Triumph motorcycles known for its superbikes – rocket and daytonna plans to faoray into the Indian motorcycle market. The robust Indian motorcycle recently witnessed intense action in the superbike segment. Majors such as Yamaha, Honda, Suzuki, Hyosung, Ducati,Harley Davidson has already entered the market and German auto major BMW has said it would launch the motorcycles in December 2010.

Triumph plans to bring the motorcycles as a CBU (Completely Built Unit) initially. The impact will be triumph superbikes will cost 10lakhs+. Confirming the development, Peter Huckin, export sales coordinator at Triumph, said, “Regarding our current situation, we are considering options for how and when to enter the Indian market. We see the market as having strong potential now and especially for the future.”

Skoda Launches Yeti

Skoda lineage, the Yeti integrates some of the best solutions from each model in the Skoda range to offer a unique mix of safety, functionality and comfort in a signature modern exterior and interior design. The highly anticipated YETI, Škoda’s international best seller is attractively priced at 14.98 lakhs (Ex Showroom Maharashtra).

With the launch of Skoda Yeti, SkodaAuto India expands its product range and hence catering to a wider target audience. Ever since the first showcase of the Yeti at the AutoExpo early this year, the Skoda Yeti has captured the imagination of auto enthusiasts and customers alike. The Skoda Yeti has all the makings of a cult car in India as it offers comfort & ride quality of a premium sedan while offering fun, technology & functionality of a premium SUV. The smartly priced Skoda Yeti will attract India’s young and increasingly auto-enthusiastic consumers by offering additional technology and multi-role capability.

SkodaAuto India has received numerous customer enquiries even before the commercial launch of the car. One of the most interesting aspects of the response is that customer enthusiasm for Skoda Yeti is spread nationally and not restricted to a particular region unlike the traditional SUV market.

Speaking on the launch, Mr. Thomas Kuehl, Board Member & Director, Sales & Marketing, ŠkodaAuto India said, “It has always been Skoda’s endeavor to offer unmatched driving experience, and the new Skoda Yeti is a perfect testimony of this. The Indian consumer will truly get to experience a capable off roader combined with the adaptability of a compact SUV and comfort of a premium sedan for the first time. The Yeti will create a NEW SUV segment between the existing premium and low cost offers. This unique proposition together with an unrivaled price point gives us the confidence that the Skoda Yeti would attract a new host of customers and reiterate the brand loyalty amongst the existing customers. We are very proud to state that our Yeti will reliably transport its passengers not only to work but will be a pleasant and reliable companion on trips for fun and active relaxation.”

He further added “In the compact SUV segment, the Yeti has set new standards internationally, due to its off-road design features, high quality materials, intelligent ergonomics and outstanding equipment. We are confident that Skoda Yeti will alter the perspective associated with traditional SUVs that consume more fuel and emit high emissions and offer a completely new SUV concept for India. It is positioned as a capable and an accomplished SUV that reflects the ‘go anywhere’ attitude of the owner and his/her will to succeed. The positioning statement (The Right of Way) resonates with the determination to succeed against all odds and the belief that nothing can stop the willing from attaining their goals.”

The Skoda Yeti is powered by a 2.0 Litre TDI CR engine, which generates maximum power of 140 bhp at 4200 rpm. The fully synchronized six-speed manual transmission gives complete power and control to the driver. The high-pressure direct injection technology system promises optimized performance, great mileage of 17.67Kmph as per ARAI, combined with excellent. Skoda Yeti is a proud proof that even an SUV can achieve low consumption and emissions.

Vicky.in launches shopping section

Vicky.in – your favourite automobile website has launched a new shopping section.vicky.in/shopping is designed to meet the needs of auto customers including enthusiast across. You can subscribe to any auto magazines, GPS navigation systems, helmets, side boxes, riding gears and more. The product portfolio will be added with new products everyday. Our magazine section now offers autocarindia, overdrive, car india, bike india, autocar professional, Motorindia and more. GPS from India’s best navigation device manufacturer MapmyIndia. Also two wheeler rider can now choose wide range of helmets – open face or full face.  Commuters here you can find what you need most – side boxes to carry lunch,documents etc. Congratulations to vicky team for making it real.

You can also suggest the desired products to us. We will make our best to ensure you buy it at vicky.in/shopping and gift it your special ones. As an introductory offer, shipping/home delivery is absolutely free. Expect a whole lot of action at vicky.in/shopping every now and then. As always,  we expect your continued support to vicky’s new section. Thanks.

Hyundai launches i20 with navigation system

Hyundai has launched i20 with navigation system. Much like the west, soon Indian cars will come with navigation system. Recently Tata launched Aria GPS navigation system and now comes featuristic i20 with navigation system. The system also doubles up as an in-car entertainment unit with video playback from USB and iPod. The driver will be able to manage the system via steering mounted controls. The i20 Asta with the navigation system is priced at Rs. 630,439 (ex-showroom, New Delhi).

Tata adds exhaust cover and electric fuse to Nano

Tata Motors today announced an unofficial recall for its Nano. Tata will add exhaust cover and fuse to electrical system to all nanos. The current owners are asked to get this done at Tata dealership at no extra cost.

Tata came under criticism when Nano got fired in as many as six incidents across India. Let’s hope with the additional protection the Nano fire gets doused along with the criticism