Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (M&M), India’s leader in utility vehicles, today launched the path-breaking FuelSmart system for Scorpio M2DI and Bolero SLX BS3 variants in the Indian market. The Mahindra FuelSmart system with Micro-Hybrid technology is a technological innovation developed by the Mahindra Research & Development team with the support of M/S BOSCH. This technology enables the SUV’s engine to switch off automatically at a traffic light when idle and in neutral gear and the engine starts seamlessly once the driver depresses the clutch before moving forward.

The system is based on the simple principle of not burning fuel when it is not required. It automatically detects moments, during the drive, when the vehicle is idle and stops the engine. This conserves fuel, leading to reduced running costs, and also leads to reduced emissions. FuelSmart technology, thus, marks another innovative first by one of India’s leading auto companies.

Congratulating the Mahindra Group on its latest innovation, Mr. Murli Deora, Honourable Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, said, “I am honoured and delighted to be a part of this historic & pioneering launch. Innovative technologies like the Mahindra FuelSmart system with Micro Hybrid technology will help the government achieve its sustainable energy goals. Initiatives such as this will serve as a benchmark in India’s sustainable energy programme. Today, global warming and pollution have become impediments in the face of development and we can overcome their adverse effects through path breaking technologies like the Mahindra FuelSmart system with Micro Hybrid technology.”

“The Mahindra FuelSmart system with Micro Hybrid technology reflects our commitment to sustainable growth. This initiative is part of our Sustainable Mobility Solutions programme which seeks to pioneer technologies that are not only fuel-efficient and innovative, but also environment friendly. The recent uncertainty in crude oil prices across the globe is a serious cause for concern and the Mahindra Micro Hybrids present a unique solution to mitigate the problem,” said Mr. Keshub Mahindra, Chairman, Mahindra Group.

“This pioneering technology is very relevant to India. It was specially created keeping in mind the heavy traffic congestion drivers have to face on our roads today. An incremental cost of only Rs:3,800 makes the highly advantageous Mahindra FuelSmart System quite affordable. Therefore, it can be used across a large number of vehicles and make a significant difference to energy consumption,” said Dr. Pawan Goenka – President, Automotive Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.

How the FuelSmart system with Micro Hybrid technology works:

The Mahindra FuelSmart system with Micro Hybrid technology switches off the vehicle’s engine after it has come to a complete halt. For example, if the vehicle comes to a halt at a traffic signal and is in neutral, the engine will shut down automatically after 10 seconds. Just before stopping, the indicator light located in the instrument cluster will blink, indicating that the engine is going to stop shortly. Once the signal turns green and the driver presses the clutch pedal, the engine starts immediately for continuing the journey.

In addition to fuel efficiency, the system also has other advantages. Since the engine is switched off during traffic signals / traffic jams, release of a considerable amount of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere is avoided. This mitigates the adverse effects of global warming, thus helping to provide us with a cleaner environment to live in.

The system also monitors health of the battery, safety requirements and the engine temperature, etc. for a trouble-free performance.

Swedish car maker Volvo launched its luxury SUV, XC90, on Wednesday in India. This new variant has comes with 32 valves, V8 4.4 litre petrol engine & fully loaded with great features, this model available in total five colors.

Priced at Rs. 58 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), the SUV is equipped with the powerful 32 valve V8 4.4 litre petrol engine delivering 315 bhp, and is available in five colours. Equipped with numerous luxury and safety features, the XC90 comes with sport-tuned chassis, sports calibrated steering and sophisticated stability control techniques.

Unveiling the SUV here, Volvo Car India Managing Director Paul de Voijs said: “The launch of the new variant of XC90 aims to broaden our model range to attract more customers with an active and urban lifestyle.” Volvo that entered the Indian market in September last year with two models has so far sold over 100 units.

“We plan to launch our latest offering XC60 soon after it is launched in Europe in November this year. We have three other models that might also be introduced in India,” Mr. Voijs said.

Volvo Car India is also looking at expanding its dealership network from four to 11 by next year. “We will open our dealerships in Kochi, Bangalore, Chennai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Kolkata and Jaipur in the coming months to cater to growing demands of our customers,” he added.

Specification
Engine Type:	4.4 litre V8 Petrol Engine
CO2 g/km:	317
Maximum Power output, KW(hp) @ rpm:	232 (315) @ 5,850
Maximum torque, Nm @ rpm:	440 @3,900 (368 @ 2,000)
Acceleration, 0-100 km/h in sec:	7.3
Top speed km/h:	210
Transmission:	Six-speed Geartronic Automatic
Fuel tank capacity:	80 litres
Environmental classification:	Euro 4 (2005)
Standard Features
Servotronic power steering
Sports-tuned chassis
High performance wheels
Rear seat entertainment: games, music and films get a whole new meaning on two 8-inch DVD-based RSE dual screen. Via an Aux input, external devices like iPOD®, MP3 player and an extra DVD player can be attached.
Satellite Navigation (Optional pack)
Dynaudio: the twelve high-end loudspeakers are evenly distributed for the best listening pleasure. There are there separate drivers – woofer, midrange, tweeter in each front door, a coaxial woofer/tweeter in each rear door and a tweeter in each rear pillar.
Roll Stability Control (RSC)
Side Impact Protection System (SIPS)
All Wheel Drive

Hindustan Motors and Mitsubishi Motors, launched Mitsubishi Outlander, a technologically sophisticated and distinctive SUV, here today. The Outlander is making a debut in India after receiving phenomenal success in North America, Japan, Australia, Canada and Western Europe, for its all-season, all-road capabilities, courtesy its unique Electronically Controlled All-Wheel Control System.

Speaking at the occasion, Mr. C.K. Birla, Chairman, Hindustan Motors Ltd. said, “We have launched the Outlander in India, in keeping with the policy of offering the latest from the Mitsubishi stable to the Indian consumers. This vehicle has all that needs to be a winner and will strengthen Mitsubishi brand as the leader amongst premium SUVs.”

Also present at the launch, Mr. Tetsuro Aikawa, Managing Director, Product Strategy and Development Group HQ, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, Japan said: “The Mitsubishi Outlander is a proven and globally successful SUV. This vehicle has played a significant role in further enhancing Mitsubishi Motors’ credentials around the world. It is a great pleasure to present the Outlander in India."

Talking about the positioning of the car Mr. R. Santhanam, Managing Director, Hindustan Motors Ltd explained, “This is premium SUV for those who are passionate about Sports, Outdoors and exploring the world around them for new experiences. The rally pedigree and Mitsubishi DNA came through in its performance both on road and off-road. Mitsubishi’s MIVEC technology gives it not just class leading performance, but class leading fuel efficiency and environment friendliness too! And, true to Mitsubishi’s spirit the Outlander, is incredibly user friendly and absolute pleasure to drive.”

The Outlander's All Wheel Control (AWC) is powered by 2.4 litre, 16 valve MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve Timing and Electronic Control system) PETROL engine. The car gives a maximum power of 170 PS/6000 rpm and has a flat torque of 226 N-m/4100 rpm. Its rigid body leads to superior handling stability with aluminum roof panels that are lighter. This reduces roll and ads to a sedan-like driving stability.

The manufacturers have given much thought on the safety aspect of the Outlander. The RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) body of the vehicle results in improved collision safety for all occupants, regardless of impact directions. For adventure lovers, it has INVECS-III (Intelligent and Innovative Vehicle Electronic Control System), CVT (Continuous Variable Transmission) with 6-speed Paddle Shifts on steering wheel, like those fitted on legendary Lancer Evolutions’, which are ideal for sporty operations. It also hosts the Electronically Controlled 4WD (Four Wheel Drive). The drive mode selector dial can quickly change the Outlander’s drive mode from 2WD to 4WD or 4WD lock mode to master even the most demanding off-road conditions.

Outlander’s Split Tailgate with Park bench can accommodate two adults and a child’s convenient seating for enjoying the great outdoors. Its interior has been designed for maximum ease of space and convenience, the Remote folding rear seats can be tumbled from the tailgate when loading large items, at the touch of a button. The vehicle can accommodate five occupants with relative ease. Its Smart Key enables locking or unlocking of the doors and tailgate, as well as turning on or off the ignition without inserting a key.

Mitsubishi has also made the product exciting for the music lovers. The SUV comes fitted with customized speakers and 650 Watts Rockford Fosgate Music System. Use of sound blocking and vibration absorbing devices enables high quality sound reproduction in the car.

Other features include dual stage front and co-passenger air bags, automatic climate control a/c, reverse parking sensors, cruise control, multi information display system, security alarm, power and heated seat and engine immobilizer and over a dozen big and small storage spaces. The safety features and ample capacity makes Outlander a complete family car.

Taking forward the ‘One Country – One Price’ policy, HML has priced Mitsubishi Outlander at Rs. 20.20 Lacs (Ex showroom Price) across the country. The Outlander is available in seven vibrant colors – Cascade White, Silver Dew, Sunrise Yellow, River Blue, Pasture Green, Twilight Red and New Moon Black at all thirty eight dealer locations. The vehicle will be assembled at Hindustan Motors Chennai Car Plant, situated at Tiruvallur at the outskirts of Chennai in Tamil Nadu.

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (M&M) launched the most powerful Bolero yet - the Bolero VLX with CRDe technology. The modern 2.49L Common Rail Diesel Engine (CRDe) belts out an awesome 97 HP and ensures a superior pick-up with smoother drive. The Bolero VLX is priced at Rs. 6.9 lakhs (ex-showroom Jaipur).

“The Bolero VLX offers a quantum leap in power and performance due to an Electronic Computer Controlled engine management system. It also offers a superior driving experience and an advanced level of refinement with reduced NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) levels. This rugged, yet stylish SUV has enough power to whip up a storm and is ideal for the young, urban customer who takes to the city and the open road with equal ease,” said Dr. Pawan Goenka, President, Automotive Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.

In the Bolero VLX, injection pressure independent of the engine speed and flat torque over a wide speed range ensure greater driveability and control. An advanced active surge damper reduces jerks during gear shifts to offer a smooth ride.

The superior NGT 530R transmission and upgraded front suspension are ideal to take on tough terrain. The Bolero VLX also features a sophisticated Voice Assist System which makes the drive safer through an audio alert which warns the driver in case the door is left open or a seat belt is unfastened.

The vehicle’s stunning body graphics add a dash of style to this powerful SUV. The premium dual-tone upholstery and elegant seating ensures that passengers travel in comfort while the stylish dashboard and trendy instrument cluster add a touch of class to the interiors. The soft grip, leather wrapped steering wheel has a sporty feel and enhances driver comfort.

Bolero Special Edition also launched:

The company also launched the Bolero Special Edition with exciting new features and an exclusive look, priced at Rs. 6.49 lakhs (exshowroom Jaipur). With its sporty appearance and plush interiors, the Bolero Special Edition is based on extensive customer feedback and is meant for the young, urban customer who likes to stand apart from the crowd. The Special Edition is available in two exclusive, exquisite colours: Mist Silver and Golden Sahara Beige. The subtle body graphics on the sides and bonnet add to the designer effect, while the aluminium mesh gives the SUV a unique and rugged appeal.

The smart exterior of the vehicle is further complemented by its luxurious interiors. The rich, European leather upholstery with premium black lining and Special Edition branding adds a touch of class, while the CD-MP3 player keeps you entertained through your journey.

The Bolero is India’s most popular SUV and the clear favourite across the country, a validation of the superior value it offers, its ability to traverse all kinds of terrain and to cater to a diverse range of customers. In 2007-08, the Bolero became the first brand in the SUV/UV/MPV category to cross 50,000 units in one year, making it India’s No. 1 SUV brand for three years in a row.

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (M&M), the leader in the UV segment in India, today launched the Scorpio Automatic which incorporates a fully automatic 6-speed gear box and the powerful 2.2 litre mHawk engine. Scorpio is the first Indian brand and the first SUV in its class to offer a 6-speed fully Automatic Transmission.

This new edition of one of India’s most loved SUVs is equipped with in-built intelligent driving modes for an effortless drive and a wide array of smart features, giving the Scorpio an even greater competitive edge in its segment. The new Scorpio Automatic is available in VLS and VLX variants and is priced from Rs. 10.2 lakhs onwards, ex-showroom price Pune.

“The new Scorpio Automatic has been designed to make driving an effortless experience, allowing one to focus on the drive rather than gear selection. The car’s intelligent driving modes provide greater vehicle control in a variety of conditions, be it stop-and-go traffic, slippery roads or steep inclines. Moreover, the Automatic is powered by the technologically superior mHawk engine which ensures a smoother drive and better fuel efficiency,” said Dr. Pawan Goenka, President, Automotive Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.

The Scorpio Automatic has a fully electronically controlled automatic gearbox which results in shorter shift times and hence, improved drivability. This is a major technological improvement over earlier Automatics which were hydraulic controlled.

The Scorpio Automatic is also remarkably low maintenance due to several advantages. The transmission is permanently sealed and does not require an oil change throughout its life. The Automatic also incorporates an adaptive strategy to maintain optimum shift quality through the entire life of the transmission. An inbuilt overheat self-protection strategy and a high self-diagnostic capability are additional benefits.

In addition to eliminating the need for constant gear changes, the Scorpio Automatic allows easy manoeuvrability in heavy traffic, anti roll-back when in ‘Drive’ mode and also ensures that the engine does not stall.

The Scorpio Automatic’s intelligent driving modes allow the driver to tackle various driving conditions with ease.

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Scorpio Automatic safety features:

• Overheat Protection – Protects the transmission in case of overheating due to any malfunction

• Reverse Lock Out – Locks reverse drive until predefined safety conditions of speed and engine RPM are met

• BTSI (Brake Transmission Shift Interlock) - Prevents the gear lever from coming out of ‘Park’ (P) position unless the brake pedal is depressed

Additional safety features include a crash protection crumple zone, child locks and ABS (Anti-lock braking system).

General Motors India has launched Chevrolet Tavera Neo-2, priced at Rs. 9.54 lakh (ex-showroom in Delhi), as it looks to consolidate its position in the Indian multi-utility vehicles segment.

GM India President and Managing Director Karl Slym said in New Delhi, "As a result of the feedbacks received, the Chevrolet Tavera once again raises the bar in terms of features and personal amenities for its segment."

The firm has been selling 1,700-1,800 units of Tavera in the country every month. With this launch, the company expects to sell around 2,000 units of Tavera Neo-2 per month.

The new Tavera comes with additional features, like a three-spoke steering wheel.

It has reported 4.4 per cent rise in August'08 sales at 6,074 units, as compared to 5,817 units in the corresponding month last year. Out of the total units sold, Chevrolet Spark accounted for the major chunk at 3,020 units, followed by 1,514 units of the Chevrolet Tavera, 913 units of the Chevrolet Aveo, 410 units of the Chevrolet Optra, and 217 units of the Chevrolet Captiva.

General Motors Corp. opened a second plant in Talegaon near Pune (Maharashtra) India on Tuesday-02-Sep, boosting its production capacity in the country from 85,000 to 225,000 vehicles a year.

This investment is in addition to USD 300-million it has already invested for making cars in the state.

GM is also working on a small-car project, which would be launched sometime next year. Engineers at its Bangalore R&D centre have been working on the small car, which would also be exported to overseas markets.

The company has a production facility in Halol, Gujarat. The Halol facility, where the company has invested Rs. 1,400 crore, can make up to 85,000 cars per annum.

This SUV is now available in a fresh new design, and comes with its trademark attractive dual tone shade sand distinctive wider tyres. The bold lines and styling compliment each other extremely well. The new headlamp cluster, dual tone wheel cover, trendy six spoke alloy wheels, two-stage power antenna and wider foot boards are just a few of the many newly added features in the Pajero SFX.

The all new interior is inviting, with its soft brown panels, plush leather seats and body colored headrest. The vehicle has contemporary dials and soft dash lights. And the second row seats are split folding with easy access to the third row making it highly user-friendly.

Whatever the weather, Pajero can take it all. When the going gets tough, Pajero’s Super Select fourwheel drive (SS4-II) offers 4 different drive modes (2H, 4H, 4HLc and 4LLc) with evenly distributed torque on demand. This marvelous machine can deliver optimum all-weather performance – both on and off-road. The Pajero’s commanding driving position offers greater visibility of the way ahead and the surrounding environment, adding to the driver’s control and safety.

The enhancements have only further improved Pajero’s off-road capabilities making driving even more exciting. With an approach angle of 40.5 degree and Ramp break over angle of 23.5 degrees taking it offroad is a sheer thrill. The ground clearance of the true blue SUV is now 205 mm and it has wider 265 / 70 R 15 tubeless radials with wider foot prints offering remarkable traction even during the toughest of conditions.

The 2.8 litre Turbocharged Intercooler Direct Injection Diesel engine is mated with one of the most reliable transmissions in the business making the new Pajero SFX capable of offering a serious dose of off-road fun. The Limited Slip Differential and Super Select 4WD (SS4-II) are the inherent strengths ofthis rough and tough SUV. The no-nonsense body bolted with the ladder frame chassis plays a key role in its renowned versatility, durability and capability.

With multiple extra features it can handle any emergency with ease. Whatever the terrain – rugged, water logged, smooth, slushy or sandy, Pajero Sfx provides a safety cushion like none other. The front SRS Air bags, 3-point ELR seat belts and Antilock Braking System (ABS) are the reassuring inner strengths of the Pajero SFX. This machine will boost your confidence to conquer the toughest of terrains with total peace of mind.

‘Flame’, ‘Navy’, ‘Granite’, ‘Carbon’, ‘Graphite’, ‘Limestone’ and ‘Deep Purple’ are the seven inviting shades of Pajero SFX, which is offered at an ex-showroom price of Rs.19.20 Lacs.

This year Honda plans to introduce its Honda CRV diesel model in India by the year end. It would then be followed by the diesel version of Honda Accord. The CRV model carries the i-CTDi badge at the end of the windscreen that represents the Intelligent Common Rail Turbocharged Direct Injection.

The 2.2-litre, 16-valve, twin-cam, direct-injection, iCTDI diesel engine produces 138bhp of maximum power at 4000 rpm and an impressive peak torque of 350Nm at 2000rpm. Though the CR-V is designed for ‘grass and gravel’ rather than hardcore mud-plugging this diesel engine will make you fly off the pants. A six-speed manual gearbox which is calibrated to make the most of the engine’s torque characteristics will be a standard-fit.

The initial model would carry lesser features to keep the costs under check. This means it is not going to be a luxury SUV with leather interiors, sunroof or a CD changer. It is expected to be placed in the price band of Rs. 21-22 lakh which would be equal to its fully loaded petrol version.

Honda would cut some of the luxury features such as sunroof to make the diesel CR-V competitive with the likes of Captiva. But the cut in the feature list may not be severe. Few months back we reported you that Honda is planning to assemble CR-V’s india that will cut the cost significantly because of the difference in the import duty (for CBU -114% and CKD- 60%). By the time CR-V diesel hits the showroom Honda might start assembling CR-V in India.

Mitsubishi Motors & Hindustan Motors have launched the automatic transmission variant of the sport utility vehicle Montero. The vehicle features a 3.2-litre common rail direct injection, turbo- charged intercooled diesel and 5-speed automatic transmission. The car is priced at Rs 35.64 lakh and its manual version costs Rs 34.11 lakh (Ex-showroom Delhi).

The All New Montero A/T has the following features:

• 3.2 Liter Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDi)
• Turbo Charged Intercooled Diesel
• Peak power of 164.5 PS
• Torque of 383 Nm
• 5-Speed Automatic Transmission
• Super Select 4WD (SS4-II).
• All Wheel Independent Suspension System
• Active Stability and Traction Control (ASTC)
• Monocoque design body construction.
• Montero’s body design is Mitsubishi’s patented RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution)
• 3-Point ELR seat belts with pre tensioners
• ABS with EBD
• 17” alloy wheels and tubeless radials
• Approach angle of 36.6 degrees and break over angle of 22.5 degrees. The departure angle is 25 degrees and it can climb up to a maximum of 35 degrees. The Maximum angle of inclination is 45 degrees and it can go until a depth of 700 mm in wading water.
• The Cruise control onboard makes driving delightful and 6 SRS airbags sets new standards of safety to the driver and passengers.
• The interior is of premium plush leather, while the centre console consists of multi information display. The SUV boasts of 6 CD changer Rockford Acoustic music system which has 12 Speakers of 860 Watts along with 5.1 Channel theatre surround with Audio control in steering.
• Montero is available in four exciting colours – Black, Blue, White & Silver.

By Financial Express

Audi India introduces its newly launched model Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) Q5 early next year, along with an advanced version of its existing Q7 in the country.

“While designing it, we have kept in mind the tradition of style, sportiness and luxuriance of Q series. Like other Audis it (Q5) is less rational and more emotional,” Audi Creative Director for Exterior Design Gary Telaak told PTI during a media preview of the coming SUV.

On the India launch of the new SUV, company officials said Q5 may be introduced in the beginning of next year, however, declining to comment on the possible price range.

The officials said, keeping in view the infrastructure of the country, the Indian model would be slight different from the international version, which the company would start selling in next few months.

“The main appearance will be the same but that may vary in specifications due to customisation of the vehicle,” the officials said.

The five-seater Q5 is targeted at a customer section below the Q 7, which is currently sold in India at Rs 57 lakh onwards. According to Gary, it took almost five years for Audi to design and develop Q5.

The company is also going to launch V 12 TDI variant of Q 7 with adaptive suspension.

“This (Q 7) is another top line product of Audi range. It will have features like large high roof, strong side body, silver linings on the body,” said an Audi official.

In 2007, Audi sold around 110 Q 7 in India and is expecting a good jump in its sales by introduction of Q 5.

See more information of Sumo Grande please <<CLICK>>

The new Sumo Grande combines the looks of an SUV with the comforts of a family car. It has been specifically designed to satisfy the needs of city customers in the areas of driveability, maneuverability and fuel efficiency. The Sumo Grande sports an all new styling with clean chiselled looks mating with flowing contours. The tall aggressive stance is complimented by large clear headlamps, and a cutaway air dam in the front. The clean rear look, with the spare wheel tucked under the body, is accentuated by attractive tail lights and a chrome overlay.

Designed with a longer wheelbase of 2550 mm (existing 2400 mm), the Sumo Grande sports comfortable 3 row seating with best in class third row seats. Beige interiors are complimented by fire and stain resistant fabric upholstery. Dual HVAC with roof integrated louvers ensures personalised climate adjustment for the occupants in each row. Power steering, power windows, motorised ORVMs, height adjustable driver’s seat and a state of the art CD/MP3 music system further add to the comforts and convenience of a family traveling in the Sumo Grande. The vehicle is powered by the new generation 2.2 L direct injection common rail (DICOR) engine, fitted with a variable geometry turbocharger creating a perfect blend of performance and fuel efficiency. Maximum power and torque of 120 PS and 250 Nm, coupled with high torque levels over a wide RPM band enhance driveability in stop start city traffic. For a vehicle its size, the Sumo Grande is extremely maneuverable with the turning circle radius of 5.25 m, similar to a small car.

The Sumo Grande will be available in 3 variants – Lx, Ex and Gx -- all of which have two seating configurations – 6+1 and 7+1. The vehicle will be available in 7 colours, including 4 new shades, Sunset Orange, Zephyr Green, Mineral Red and Marine Blue. The Sumo Grande range is priced in the range of Rs.6.55 lakhs to Rs.7.49 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi). It comes with an enhanced warranty of 2 years or 75000 kms. (whichever is earlier). An additional 2 years’ warranty can be availed through the extended warranty option.

Engine Type: 2.2L DICOR (Direct Injection Common Rail) with 16 Valve DOHC, 32 Bit ECU, Aluminium Cylinder Head and Variable Geometry Turbocharger

Capacity (cc): 2,179

Max. Output (PS) at rpm: 120 @ 4,000

Max. Torque (Nm) at rpm: 250 @ 1,500-3,000

Gearbox : G-76, Synchromesh with Overdrive

Kerb Weight (Kgs): 1,940

Gross Vehicle Weight (Kgs): 2,625

Seating: 7 & 8 Seaters, Three Row Front Facing Seats

Bollywood of Arbaaz Khan and Malaika Arora Khan
& Scott McCormack

Ford Motors on Tuesday launched a new version of Endeavour. Priced at Rs. 17.32 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), the “Endeavour Thunder+” has been powered by new 16-valve DHOC 3.0 litre turbo diesel TDCi engine.

Endeavour’s advanced version provides the SUV owner with a vehicle of class-leading ability on-road and off-road. It is equipped with safety technologies like anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) system to assist the driver during high-demand situations.

Besides dual front airbags, the additional safety features include increased diameter of the shock absorbers for better control and handling in all driving conditions, repairable breakaway front bumper system that minimises collision impact and maximises safety. The SUV also has an engine immobiliser and an anti-theft alarm ensuring complete vehicle security, Mr. McCormack added.

4x4 Thunder+ Technical:

• Engine: 3.0Litre TDCI with Variable Geometry Turbocharged (VGT)
• Diplacement : 2,953 cc.
• Power : 156 PS (115 Kw) @ 3,200 rpm
• Max. torque: 380 Nm (38.7 kgm) @ 2,500 rpm
• Valve system : DOHC, 16 Valves
• Fuel : Direct injection Common Rail
• Transmission : 5 Speed Manual
• Front wheel hub unlock+ Remote
  

4x4 Thunder+ Feature :

• In-car DVD system
  Turning indicators and puddle lamps on ORVM etc.

Honda Siel Cars India (HSCI), leading manufacturer of premium cars in India, today launched a new 2.0L 2WD (2-Wheel Drive) Honda CR-V. A premium urban SUV that deliversa rare-in-its-class driving experience. With its unique combination of new age urban styling and sporty drive and handling, the CR-V is superior both in terms of versatility and sophistication. The new lighter engine gives good fuel efficiency, without compromising on performance. The CR-V is priced at Rs. 17,15,000 (ex-showroom, New Delhi).

Here is some following technical features:

• Engine Type - 2.0L 141bhp i-VTEC Inline Engine.
• Engine Configuration - 4 Stroke, Spark Ignition, Gasoline, 4 Cylinder.
• Max. Power (ps/rpm) - 143 @ 6000.
• Max. Torque (Nm/rpm) - 190 @ 4200.
• Manual (MT) - 6 Forward,1 Reverse (6 MT).
• Drive System - 2WD.
• Fuel System - PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection).

Tata Motors on Wednesday launched a new version of its multi utility vehicle - Sumo Grande - priced between Rs 6.55 and 7.49 lakhs (ex-showroom Delhi).

The company has been trying to bring in the contemporary aspect in styling and technology by infusing new features, Mr Ravi Kant, Managing Director, Tata Motors said at the 9th Auto Expo here. The vehicle will be available in the market starting next month. - PTI

General Motors India has launched its SUV Captiva at the Auto Expo today. Captiva it has been priced at Rs 17.74 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), and GM hopes to sell 1,000 units by the end of this year.

The two-litres diesel engine powers Captiva has everything that a premium SUV customer in India wants.

Mahindra & Mahindra, the leader in the UV segment in India, today launched the Scorpio V-series, a new line-up of India’s leading SUV, with the introduction of the Scorpio VLX. The new VLX edition is equipped with the powerful mHawk engine and a wide array of smart features which gives the SUV an even greater competitive edge in its segment. The new VLX is priced at Rs. 9.33 lakhs, ex-showroom New Bombay and Rs. 9.65 lakhs, ex-showroom Delhi.

The Scorpio V-series offers customers a dual advantage – a technologically superior, more refined and more fuel efficient engine, coupled with innovative tech features which will provide passengers with greater luxury at their finger tips. “With pathbreaking technology and user-friendly, modern features, the Scorpio V-series is a clear validation of our customer-centric approach to business. This package would delight the evolved, new age customer. The Scorpio has always been the leader in driving change in the industry and with the launch of the new VLX from the Scorpio Vseries.

1. mHawk CRDe engine
2. Anti-lock braking system
3. Cruise control
4. intellipark
5. Tyre-tronics
6. Intelligent headlamps and wipers
7. Engine immobiliser
8. Audio system controls on steering wheels
9. Anti-Pinch window
10. Functional bonnet scoop

Mahindra & Mahindra, the leader in the utility vehicle segment launched its global lifestyle SUV Scorpio Getaway in India. The Getaway is a new category creating offering from the Scorpio stable.

The Scorpio Getaway lifestyle SUV is powered by 2600cc common-rail diesel engine, designed in collaboration with AVL, Austria – global leaders in engine design. It delivers 115bhp at 3800 rpm and 28.3Kgm torque at 1800rpm. This results in more pulling power, even in lower gears, making it ideally suited for adventure travel. It utilises a rack and pinion steering mechanism. Power steering is also standard and the steering column can be adjusted to fit each driver’s unique driving position. The Scorpio Getaway boasts a relatively tight turning circle radius of 5.6 meters which makes it easily manoeuvrable.

The Scorpio Getaway is available in 2WD and 4WD options and comes in 4 attractive colours. It pumps its power from its 2600cc common-rail diesel engine (CRDe). The Scorpio Getaway 2WD ‘Double Cab’ would be priced at Rs. 7.19 lac (ex-showroom Chandigarh) and Rs 6.99 lac (ex-showroom Navi Mumbai).

Ford India launched the latest edition of its sport utility vehicle (SUV) Endeavour in India on Wednesday. The company also plans to launch a diesel version of Fusion within a few months and increase its diesel portfolio. The bigger and better Endeavour has been priced at Rs 14.72 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) for XLT as against Rs 14.16 lakh earlier (Rs 50,000 costlier) and Rs 15.62 lakh for XLT 4X4 version. Over 75 per cent of Endeavour's sales come from the XLT (4X2 model). It has also launched a `Limited Edition' Endeavour priced at Rs 15.52 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

The new Endeavour sports a new, more powerful 2.5 litre Duratorq engine with Ford's proprietary TDCi technology, authentic SUV exteriors and plush new interiors. As compared to the previous avatar, the new Endeavour offers 28 per cent more power and 22 per cent more torque. Its new engine develops 143 PS at 3500 RPM as against 116 PS on 3500 RPM earlier and 330Nm at 1800 RPM as against 285kgm at 2000 RPM earlier. Ford claims a 38 per cent market share in Indian SUV segment, Honda CR-V being the leader. It sold around 2,000 Endeavour SUVs last year. The company hopes to increase its market share with the launch of new Endeavour which is ranked as a "complete offroader" as against the city SUVs which are more popular in India.

Country's largest car maker Maruti Udyog Ltd (MUL) on Thursday launched its sports utility vehicle (SUV) 'Grand Vitara' at a starting price of Rs 13.80 lakh (ex-showroom) in Delhi.

The company has launched two variants of the SUV -- manual transmission and automatic transmission. The automatic transmission variant will be available for Rs 14.8 lakh (ex-showroom price Delhi).

"India is very important and evolving market for Suzuki. We believe that we have to diversify our product line to meet rapidly changing customer demands. The launch of Grand Vitara is a step in this direction," MUL Chairman S Nakanishi told reporter in New Delhi.

The SUV would be imported in India from Suzuki's plant in Japan. This is the company's third global launch in India after the premium hatchback Swift and Sedan SX-4. On the issue of rising interest rates, MUL Managing Director Jagdish Khattar said: "Interest rate effect has not peaked out and it is still impacting sales."