Car October 2015 PDF

TESTED: Audi A6 35 TDI Matrix  BMW X6 xDrive 40d  Toyota Fortuner 4x4 AT ` 125.
00
BIG SMALL CAR,

NO KWIDDIN’
DRIVEN: RENAULT KWID
www.carindia.in
Volume 11 / Issue 003 / October 2015
BMW 7 SERIES
Redefining luxury, comfort and convenience
DIESEL
DRIVEN FEATURES SHOOTOUT
Volvo XC90 D5 AWD Frankfurt Motor Show Figo Aspire v
FIAT Punto Evo Abarth Duster goes to Ladakh Amaze v Swift DZire
Tough and
utilitarian
PUBLISHING Mahindra TUV300
shufflefashion shufflefashion
CONTENTS THIS MONTH’S STORIES AT A GLANCE
Volume 11 I Issue 3 I October 2015
78 ROAD TEST 100 COMPARO
REGULARS TESTS SPORT FIRST DRIVES

8 WELCOME 78 MAHINDRA TUV300 112 VW VENTO CUP 40 FIAT PUNTO EVO ABARTH
10 BULLETIN Mahindra enters the compact SUV Vento Cup racers take to Kari Abarth’s second monster will be
34 INBOX segment with this new SUV Speedway for the second round launched soon but we take it for
35 COLUMN
84 BMW X6 of the season a spin before that
36 EMISSION ZERO
Enhanched abilities with
38 TECHNO BIBLE 116 JEHAN AT NÜRBURGRING 46 RENAULT KWID
some serious road presence
126 CI GARAGE Jehan Daruvala does India proud Renault’s SUV-mimicking hatch
129 THE GBU 90 TOYOTA FORTUNER 4X4 AT once again, this time in Germany promises a great deal. We drive it
156 TRAILING END We finally get our hands on
117 APRC: JAPAN to see if it delivers
Toyota’s automatic 4x4
Team MRF’s Pontus Tidemand 56 VOLVO XC90
94 AUDI A6
62
dominates Rally Hokkaido and
A good car that will never The second coming of the tough
leave you wanting wins the APRC title
and safe Swede is finally here
118 F1: ITALY
DUSTING THE CLOUDS

FEATURES 119 F1: SINGAPORE COMPARO
We take Renault’s all-wheel-drive 110 MAHINDRA GREAT ESCAPE 100 BOOT FIGHT
120: WRC: GERMANY SPECIAL
Duster to the magnificent We head to Lonavala for some Ford’s Figo Aspire locks horns with
Himalayas leisurely mud-plugging 124: WRC: AUSTRALIA Honda’s Amaze and Suzuki’s DZire
COVER STORY 50
NEW BMW 7 SERIES
The Bavarians are back with a bang and the new
750 Li xDrive is dressed to impress
6/CAR INDIA /October 2015 www.carindia.in

WELCOME Editor Aspi Bhathena
Assistant Editor Aninda Sardar
Copy Editor Deepak Upadhye
When Shall We Catch Up With Them? Correspondents

Ravi Chandnani, Gaurav Nagpal
Staff Writers and Reporters
Piyush Sonsale, Jim Gorde,
Harket Suchde, Ryan Lee, Aniruddha Mulgund
EVERY TIME YOU DRIVE A NEW CAR FROM ONE OF THE PREMIUM Editorial Contributor
Navroze Contractor
manufacturers it feels that now it is going to be impossible to make a car to better the Art Director Ramnath Chodankar
Head Design & Production Ravi Parmar
one that has just been launched, but you will be surprised that every time one of the Designer Santosh Wadhai, Sandeep Naik
Colour Correction Deepak Narkar
premium manufacturers launches a new car, the previous model feels and looks totally Senior Photographer Sanjay Raikar
Videographer Crystelle Nunes
dated compared to the new car. The new 7 Series I drove in the US sets new Picture Agencies DPPI, Corbis
Production Supervisor Dinesh Bhajnik
standards in many areas like construction, gesture control and much more. EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD
Phil McNamara, H S Billimoria,
The same cannot be said about Indian manufacturers as most of the time they Sam Katgara, Aspi Bhathena
struggle to match what is already on sale. It is sad but you have to face the truth that PUBLISHER Marzban Jasoomani
Marketing head office
the local manufacturers struggle to match their overseas counterparts in Next Gen Publishing Ltd.
2nd Floor, C Wing, Trade World,
all the departments. Kamala Mills Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg
Lower Parel (W), Mumbai 400013, India.
Tel + 91 22 43525252 Fax + 91 22 24955394
The Frankfurt Motor Show was much bigger compared to the Subscription Supervisor Sachin Kelkar
previous iteration two years ago. The European new car market is Tel + 91 22 43525220 Fax + 91 22 24955394
E-mail: subscriptions nextgenpublishing.net
showing a healthy growth and that reflected on the motor show. Apple Newsstand & Magzter Queries:
help@magzter.com
Zinio Subscriptions Queries:
Almost all manufacturers had a plug-in hybrid or a full electric car on http://in.zinio.com/help/index.jsp
display. Some of the concept cars were really stunning. REGIONAL MARKETING OFFICES
Next Gen Publishing Ltd.
This month we have quite a few first drives and road tests. We 26-B, Ground Floor, okhla industrial Estate,
Phase III, New Delhi 110 020, India
have the first drive of the all-new 7 Series at the top end and the Tel +91 11 4234 6600 / 6678
Fax + 91 11 42326679
Renault Kwid at the entry level. Unit No. 509, 5th Floor ‘B’ Wing, Mittal Towers,
MG Road, Bengaluru 560 001,
India Tel + 91 80 66110116/17
Cenetoph Elite, No.5, 1st street,
Teynampet, Chennai 600 014,
India Tel + 91 44 39149889
Fax + 91 44 39149892
Next Gen Publishing Ltd. Ahmedabad
ASPI BHATHENA EDITOR Devendra Mehta - Mob No.- 09714913234

Srinivas Gangula, Territory Sales Incharge
(Circulation), Hyderabad, India
Tel + 91 9000555756
Why we are unique/different

Vidyasagar Gupta, Territory Sales Incharge,
(Circulation), Kolkata 700 035, India
Tel + 91 09804085683
Car India is a licensee product of Bauer

TESTED: Audi A6 35 TDI Matrix  BMW X6 xDrive 40d  Toyota Fortuner 4x4 AT
BIG SMALL CAR,

` 125.00
Unlike other automobile industry where foreign junkets Consumer Media Ltd., UK. Views and opinions
NO KWIDDIN’
DRIVEN: RENAULT KWID magazines, Car India is devoted and gifts are rampant in order expressed in the magazine are not necessarily
those of Next Gen Publishing Ltd. Next Gen
www.carindia.in
cent per cent to CARS, SUVs and to win over editorial staff, we Publishing does not take responsibility for
MUVs. There are no bikes or strive hard to maintain our returning unsolicited manuscripts, photographs
or other material. All material published in Car
commercial vehicles to be editorial integrity and balance.
Volume 11 / Issue 003 / October 2015
India is copyright and no part of the magazine

BMW 7 SERIES
Redefining luxury, comfort and convenience
found in Car India. Therefore, may be reproduced in part or full without the
express prior written permission of the publisher
we have a very focused Our emphasis is on bringing out Printed by Marzban Jasoomani Next Gen
readership and also give our a quality, information-packed Publishing Ltd., Trade World, C-Wing, 2nd Floor,
Kamala Mills Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg,
advertisers better bang for issue that does not rely on mere Lower Parel(W), Mumbai 400013. Published
their buck! filling up of pages. We are not in by Marzban Jasoomani on behalf of Next Gen
Publishing Ltd., Trade World, C-Wing, 2nd Floor,
competition with magazines Kamala Mills Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg,
Motor Show 2015 Renault Duster Travelogue
DRIVEN FEATURES
DIESEL
SHOOTOUT
Our editorial team is passionate that are in a page count race. Lower Parel(W), Mumbai 400013. Printed at
Kala Jyothi Process Pvt. Ltd, 1-1-60/5 RTCX
Volvo XC90 D5 AWD
FIAT Punto Evo Abarth
Frankfurt Motor Show
Duster goes to Ladakh
Figo Aspire v
Amaze v Swift DZire about cars. They live, drink, eat Roads, Hyderabad - 20. Published at Next Gen
Tough and and breathe cars. This lends the Finally, we never exchange Publishing Ltd., Trade World, C-Wing, 2nd Floor,
utilitarian Kamala Mills Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg,
PUBLISHING Mahindra TUV300
crucial extra touch to their advertising for good reviews. Lower Parel(W), Mumbai 400013.
Car India Magazine, 401-B, editorial efforts. Just take a look at our ‘Car of
CMYK
Editor – Aspi Bhathena Member –

Gandhi Empire, 5th Floor, the Year Awards’ for the past INDIA
UTO
INDIA
2 Serene Estate, Kondhwa Road, Pune Our editorial team is bound by ten years. Not a single
411 040. INDIA
Tel: +91-20-32930292 a strict code of conduct. In an wrong one!
Fax: +91-20-26830465
carindia@nextgenpublishing.net
PUBLISHING

BULLETIN
BULLETIN
AUTOMOTIVE NEWS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD
Small Compact,
Big Headlines
All-new. Those words acquire a new meaning when it comes to moving from
evolution to revolution. The Tiguan is not a nip-and-tuck, new bodywork,
new engine; it’s based on a whole new platform: the MQB
Story: Jim Gorde Photography: Newspress

THIS MONTH’S HIGHLIGHTS
INCOMING ELECTRICKERY CONCEPTS
Hot models from the Frankfurt Electricity is fast replacing fossil The hottest and most
Motor Show which are expected fuel in most concept cars and astounding concept cars fresh
to arrive in India soon after their there were quite a few eye- from the oven, some even
global roll-out P 12 openers in Frankfurt P 19 production-ready P 23
THE TIGUAN WAS A COMPETENT AND POTENT safety features like the Active Bonnet, which raises
compact SUV, but it never made it to India. There in the event of a collision with a pedestrian or TIGUAN GTE CONCEPT
are several examples of that kind of occurrence. cyclist, as well as Lane Assist. A 360° video feed
Now, however, things have changed. The all-new from four surround cameras is also on the The new Tiguan was also shown in its
Volkswagen Tiguan is here with a more modern equipment list. environment-friendly hybrid model
face, sporting a design language seen on the Moreover, the Tiguan will also be offered with avatar. The highlight is the near
Passat and GTE Concepts earlier, but in a compact the choice of front-wheel-drive or pack a 4MOTION 1,000-km range it will offer. The driveline
crossover body that’s built to handle everything intelligent all-wheel driveline with Active Control. makes use of a 130-PS combustion
from an 115-PS turbo-diesel to a 240-PS BiTurbo With the MQB being a modular platform, there is engine together with a 114-PS electric
diesel engine, with TSI petrol motors from 125-220 also talk of a long-wheelbase model, which could motor. The electric range may be just
PS in between. result in the addition of two more seats for a 5+2 below 50 km, but the claimed 42 g/km
The Tiguan offers tremendous space, with version of the Tiguan as well. The Volkswagen of CO2 surely raises eyebrows.
spacious seating for five and 615 litres of cargo CrossBlue Concept may be the guiding light for
volume. Fold down the rear seats and the figure any development on that front.
rises to 1,655 litres. It’s not just the practicality Volkswagen India have confirmed that the new
aspect, the Tiguan will raise the game for safety Tiguan will indeed make it to our shores, and we
too. As is mandated by the Euro NCAP to qualify can expect assembly at their facility at Chakan,
for a five-star rating, the Tiguan is packed with near Pune, with power coming from the popular
autonomous emergency braking, pedestrian 2.0-litre TDI diesel with either 140 or 177 PS, with
detection, and what VW call Automatic Post- the possibility of a choice of manual or automatic
Collision Braking System, among several essential transmission as well.
www.carindia.in October 2015 /CAR INDIA /11

BULLETIN IAA Frankfurt 2015
BMW 3 Series
INCOMING
A FRESHER FACE AND UPDATED ENGINES, THE 3 SERIES GET OPTIONAL

full-LED headlamps, packs more power and sports new badging in a bid
to reclaim top-spot as the go-to sport-luxury compact sedan. The 320d
now gets 190 PS and 400 Nm, the 330d gets the straight-six with 258 PS
and 560 Nm, and in comes the 335d with 313 PS and 630 Nm. On the
petrol front, the 328i is no more. Instead there’s a TwinPower Turbo 330i
with 252 PS and 350 Nm. A new 340i steps in with all of 326 PS and 450
Nm. We hope to see most of these on sale here too. An all-new 330e plug-
in hybrid will also join the line-up.
AUDI A4/S4
A NEW AUDI A4 IS ON THE HORIZON, REVITALISED TO BE EVEN MORE
frugal and refined than ever before. More tech, more gizmos and even
more equipment are on the cards. In India, we can expect uprated petrol
and diesel engines as well as more advanced lighting technology.
With the new A4 comes a more powerful and desirable S4. S-line trim
abound and that glorious TFSI V6 returns packing an even greater punch.
The 3.0-litre supercharged V6 now pumps out 354 PS and 500 Nm, and,
with quattro all-wheel-drive, allows a 0-100 km/h sprint of 4.7 seconds.
The quattro system is 40:60 rear-biased, but can deliver 70:30, or even
15:85, depending on the situation. Audi drive select allows customising
the settings for the engine, steering, transmission, sport differential and
the continuous damping control (CDC). That’s not all, the new MMI also
has a free text search option, like your smartphone. Expect the new S4 to
make its début following the launch of the new A4 in India.
BMW 7 Series
ARMED TO THE TOOTH WITH TECHNOLOGY AND THOUGHTFUL DESIGN
on its side, the new 7 Series brings in a host of comfort and conveniences
in one desirable German luxury package. Using the new CarbonCore
lightweight construction from BMW i, the 7 incorporates CFRP and
aluminium in the chassis for a lighter, stronger and more functional
approach to packaging. Everything from the welcome carpet lighting and
aerodynamically-conscious kidney-grille to the gesture control and
wireless charging reflect how much has changed in the new 7.
The engines range from a 3.0-litre TwinPower Turbo diesel straight-six
with 265 PS and 620 Nm, to an all-powerful twin-turbo 4.4-litre petrol V8
with all of 450 PS and 650 Nm (driven in this very issue, turn to page 50). A
740e plug-in hybrid driveline is in the pipeline as well.
BENTLEY Bentayga
WHEN CREWE MAKES A CAR, IT’S USUALLY BIG, FAST AND SUPER
luxurious. Now they’ve made an SUV. The newest Bentley takes ability
and opulence to another level. With the twin-turbo 6.0-litre W12,
complete with 608 PS and 900 Nm, it’s the most powerful production SUV
in the world; and with a top speed of 301 km/h, also the fastest. The
Bentayga, named after the rock formation on the island in Gran Canaria,
takes signature Bentley luxury to the next level, adding all-road, all-
weather capability with added ground clearance and a plush ride. Expect
to see it arrive here with a price-tag in the region of Rs 4 crore.

FIAT 500
INCOMING
TURNING UP THE CUTE QUOTIENT EVEN FURTHER WAS FIAT WITH THE
new 500. Visible changes include all-new headlamps, oval LED daytime
lights and a new front bumper and air-dam. FIAT showed the hard-top,
convertible and Lounge models of the 500, with additional alloy-wheel
design choices too. The 1.2-litre and 0.9-litre TwinAir petrols, and 1.3-litre
MultiJet diesel continue unchanged. We hope to see this iconic little
lovely join the India line-up too.
BMW X1
MORE MUSCULAR AND AGGRESSIVE TO LOOK AT THAN THE FIRST X1,
the changes aren’t merely cosmetic. This is the first X1 that will be offered
with front-wheel driveline variants, as well as more capable xDrive ones.
The familiar 2.0-litre TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder diesel, with 190 PS
and 400 Nm will be the weapon of choice for BMW India. Of course, there
are new engines on the cards that also include the 136-PS three-pot
TwinPower Turbo diesel that is also seen in the MINI Cooper D. Overseas,
there are xDrive variants, as well as more powerful petrol versions, like
the 231-PS 25i xDrive model shown at Frankfurt.
FORD EcoSport
QUICK TO FIX THE NIGGLES FOUND BY THOSE AROUND THE WORLD,
Ford have refreshed the EcoSport to make it better than it is. A play of
grey and black on the inside, a four-inch display on the centre console
and faux leather trim for top-end models apart, the TDCi diesel also gets
five more PS. The side-opening tail-gate has been tweaked to make it
easier to access the boot when partially opened.
The engine line-up in India should also receive similar updates, though
we believe the 100-PS version of the 1.5-litre TDCi will make more sense
considering its already available in the Figo and its Aspire sibling. The
1.5-litre Ti-VCT petrol and 1.0-litre EcoBoost will continue unchanged.
FERRARI 488 Spider

THE FIRST TURBOCHARGED MID-ENGINED FERRARI IN A GENERATION
has now received a contemporary convertible sibling. The roof comes off,
the engine and output are the same, but the aural bliss gets enhanced.
The 488 Spider, is, of course, the successor to the 458 Spider, which has
raised the bar with its phenomenal naturally-aspirated 4.5-litre V8 that
revved to an unbelievable 9,000 RPM and made 570 PS, going up to 605
PS in the 458 Speciale.
In the new 488, the heart of the matter is the 3.9-litre twin-turbo V8
that makes 670 PS and 760 Nm. All those Italian thoroughbreds are kept
in check by the seven-speed F1 transmission. We should see the new 488
Spider in India shortly, with a tag of around Rs 4 crore.

MERCEDES C-Class Coupé
INCOMING
THE TWO-DOOR AVATAR OF THE C-CLASS HAS MORE IN COMMON WITH

Mercedes coupé design than ever. With styling cues from the S-Class
Coupé as well as the AMG GT, the new C two-door looks every bit the
modern Mercedes it is. Like its four-door saloon counterpart, the C-Class
Coupé also gets a similar line-up of engines, from the four-cylinder petrol
and diesel Benz units to the pair of 4.0-litre BiTurbo AMG V8s with 476 PS
and 510 PS; the one in the S. Of course, it remains to be seen if Mercedes-
Benz of India will launch the Coupé here as a priority given their active
launch spree this year already.
JAGUAR F-Pace
JAGUAR’S FIRST SUV AIMS TO BE ALL JAGUAR AND LITTLE OR NO LAND
Rover. With styling cues from the XF and F-Type, front and rear
respectively, the F-Pace takes capable luxury to the next level for Jaguar.
The F-Pace will be offered with a choice of four- and six-cylinder
turbocharged diesel and petrol engines as well as that sweet
supercharged V8 5.0 with — should Jaguar be kind and offer the R version
— 550 PS and 680 Nm.
All-wheel drive may be offered as standard, and we simply will not rule
out a two-wheel-drive Ingenium diesel version as well. The new Ingenium
is an all-new, all-aluminium 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel with either
163 or 180 PS, and a wholesome 400 Nm of torque. The transmission
choices will include the ZF nine-speed automatic, with the more powerful
versions getting the now familiar eight-speed unit.
MERCEDES S-Class Cabriolet

THE MOST LUXURIOUS CONVERTIBLE FROM MERCEDES-BENZ THUS FAR,
the S-Class Cabriolet sits above even the magnificent SL-Class. With two
doors, but four seats, it makes for opulent open-top cruising for four with
equal doses of style and luxury.
The choice of power-plants is, as with the S-Class Coupé, a choice of
twin-turbo V8 petrol motors: a 455-PS 4.7-litre ‘500’-badged motor, and a
more powerful 585-PS 5.5-litre ‘63 AMG’ unit. The 500 gets the new
9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic, while the AMG has the seven-speed
SpeedShift MCT. Both are rear-wheel driven.
Whichever driveline it is equipped with, the S-Class Cabriolet is sure to
pack a punch, and makes for the closest iteration of the much-desired
Ocean Drive Concept shown many moons ago.
MINI Clubman
SHOWN TO THE PUBLIC FOR THE FIRST TIME, THE CLUBMAN IS AMONG
the greatest ironies, because it is one huge MINI, complete with split
doors at the rear where one would expect a tailgate. They even
incorporate the new tail-lamps. Of course, the increase in size
proportionally delivers an increase in interior space.
So far as the engine line-up is concerned, expect to see familiar petrol
and diesel drivelines, including the 2.0-litre TwinPower Turbo diesel,
which is a sure-shot for launch in India, as well as the S-spec turbo-petrol,
if, of course, MINI India do decide to bring their new big car here.

LAMBORGHINI Huracán Spyder
INCOMING
THE INEVITABLE TAKES SHAPE, AGAIN. LAMBORGHINI HAVE REVEALED THE HURACÁN
Spyder, powered by the same V10 motor from the Huracán that makes 610 PS and 560
Nm, using a combination of direct- and indirect-injection for optimised fuel consumption
and power delivery. The power is fed to all four wheels through the seven-speed paddle-
shift automatic transmission.
The Spyder will take the battle to the super sports convertible arena which comprises
the new Ferrari 488 Spider, the to-be-launched new R8 Spyder, as well as the AMG SL 63,
F-Type Convertible and 911 Cabriolet, among others. We should see it in India shortly at
around Rs 3.9 crore.
ROLLS-ROYCE Dawn
Rolls-Royce earned the title of the ‘best car in the world’ on account of
several original examples over what is now more than a century of
existence still functioning with clock-work precision. Created to be the
absolute best, the Rolls-Royce models, often understated in design with
traditional cues, are quite large to behold. The Dawn is no exception. It
spells opulence with a capital O and is, in essence, a drop-head Wraith.
Two doors, a twin-turbo 6.6-litre V12 with 632 PS and bespoke luxury
make this one of the most exclusive convertibles on offer.
NISSAN NP300 Navara

A NISSAN PICK-UP TRUCK? YES. BUT IT’S RELEVANT, AND IN A BIG WAY,
because it will be the base for the new Mercedes-Benz luxury pick-up
truck, dare we say, the GLT-Class, in the near future. Without doubt, the
engine of choice will be the 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6 in ‘350 d’guise.
The Nissan-Mercedes tie-up has seen the introduction of the K9K
1.5-litre diesel motor in the A-and B-Class already, with the motor
powering manual versions of the 160 CDI and 180 CDI.
There can never be enough GL badges, can there?
SUZUKI Baleno
THE NEXT BIG HATCH FROM SUZUKI SEES THE RESURRECTION OF THE
‘Baleno’ moniker. The new premium hatchback from the company
introduces the new 1.0-litre BoosterJet turbo-petrol motor, but we expect
to see this model on sale in India with familiar petrol and DDiS diesel
motors as well as a CVT automatic option. This will be the second model to
be retailed through the specialised ‘Nexa’ showrooms, offering customers
a more premium interface to interact with the company and the car.
PORSCHE 911 Carrera / S

THE BOMB HAS DROPPED. THE PORSCHE 911S ARE NOW turbocharged.
The Carrera and Carrera S models get an all-new 3.0-litre twin-turbo
Boxer-six motor with 370 PS and 450 Nm, and 420 PS and 500 Nm
respectively; increases of 20 PS and 60 Nm. That means they’re both
faster and more efficient. And, with a 7,500-RPM red-line, Porsche have
tried hard to retain the signature 911 character. Don’t confuse them with
the 911 Turbo and Turbo S, though, for those two are more turboed than
these two new turbos.

AUDI e-tron quattro Concept
ELECTRICKERY
LONG HAD WE EXPECTED AN ELECTRIC — one on the front axle and two at the rear — the km/h. The 95-kWh battery allows a range of over
crossover from Audi, and, at the IAA, they e-tron quattro has 320 kW (435 PS equivalent) on 500 km with the Combined Charging System
showed what could well be the Q6 e-tron — an tap, with boost mode allowing up to 370 kW (503 (CCS) allowing the use of both AC and DC. With a
all-electric luxury crossover to take on the likes PS equivalent) and 800 Nm of torque, capable of DC column of 150 kW, charging time is as short
of the Tesla Model X. With three electric motors 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 210 as 50 minutes.
TOYOTA Prius TOYOTA C-HR Concept

THE HYBRID CAR THAT STARTED IT ALL, THE PRIUS, NOW IN ITS SHOWING OFF THE COMPANY’S NEW TNGA (TOYOTA NEW GLOBAL
fourth-generation, takes a turn for the contemporary with sharper Architecture) platform, the C-HR Concept is the second one following the
design language and an optimised driveline. It has a more efficient successful showing of the first concept at the 2014 Paris Motor Show. With
combustion engine, with a thermal efficiency of more than 40 per cent, a diamond-styling theme for the dynamic hybrid crossover, Toyota have
a more advanced battery pack with a higher density, and lighter hybrid further sharpened their five-door concept with a sensual cabin and
system components, all of which allow for lower emissions and fuel interior together with sculpted exterior design. Hybrid technology is
consumption with added range. The next-generation car will soon be taken further with more advanced battery technology paired to more
seen in Toyota showrooms world-wide. efficient drivelines with higher fuel economy and lower emissions.

BORGWARD BX7
HOPEFULS
BACK AFTER AN INTERREGNUM OF OVER 40 YEARS, GERMAN AUTO-
maker Borgward resurrected the brand after the grandson of the
original founder began pushing for the car. The BX7 is near production-
ready and features a 2.0-litre T-GDI turbo-petrol motor with 224 PS and
300 Nm. It also packs all the rather cutting-edge mandatory safety
equipment, including autonomous braking, pedestrian detection as
well as side-wind compensation.
ALFA ROMEO Giulia

THE LATEST SPORT-LUXURY SEDAN FROM THE ITALIAN MARQUE
will be the one to take on some seriously established players. The
159 was the last of the Alfa saloons to make a mark and the new
Giulia has its work cut out for it. With its high-performance Cloverleaf
avatar also on the cards, together with some potent blown petrol
and diesel motors, Alfa look set to arrive charging.
HONDA Project 2&4

IF YOU’RE A TRACK-DAY ENTHUSIAST AND A HONDA RACING FAN, THIS
is your wet dream come true. The 2&4 is the result of the ‘Global Design
Project’ competition that saw over 80 participants. The single-seater
Project 2&4 is powered by the 999-cc motor from the RC213V-S road-
legal MotoGP machine, complete with its tuned up 215 PS at 13,000
RPM and 118 Nm at 10,500 RPM, with a 14,000-RM red-line. This one,
however, uses a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission to
harness the power. It stands at just 995-mm tall.
INFINITI Q30
THE LATEST ENTRANT IN THE COMPACT LUXURY CROSSOVER
segment, Infiniti have set their phasers to stun with the new Q30. The
production model boasts of sharp creases and bold lines concealing a
slew of Mercedes-sourced power units — four-cylinder petrol and
diesel motors of 1.6-2.2 litre capacity with outputs going up to 211 PS.
Infiniti made a charge with their F1 campaign with Red Bull and are
now a global name. We hope to see them in India soon.

MERCEDES Concept IAA VOLKSWAGEN Golf GTE Sport
CONCEPTS
ACTIVE AERODYNAMICS MAY SEEM CUTTING-EDGE BUT THE CONCEPT IAA THE GOLF IS AMONG THE BEST VEHICLES TO OWN OVERALL, BUT, GIVEN
(Intelligent Aerodynamic Automobile) raises the game so high, it makes its size, price and body style, we still feel the market isn’t mature enough,
current production active-aero look the equivalent of a 16-bit video especially considering that many put brand value almost above
game. The four-door design study seems perfectly regular concept till 80 everything else when price comes into the picture. This new GTE Sport
km/h, post which the car changes completely. Eight segments extend at Concept, however, takes ‘desirable’ to another level. With a combination
the rear, resulting in a length increase of 390 mm. Front bumper flaps of good old petrol power, turbos and electricity, the Golf GTE pumps out
extend 25 mm at the front and 20 mm at the rear to improve air flow over 400 PS. The 1.6-litre motor is lifted from VW Motorsport’s WRC car,
around the front wheel-arches. A louvre in the front extends by 60 mm and tuned down to 295 PS, while the electric support is 113 PS
towards the rear to improve underbody air-flow. equivalent. Electric range is 50 km, but top speed is 280 km/h.
The Active Rims reduce their scoop from 55
mm to zero. The coefficient of drag at this
point is 0.19! Inside, it’s even more
fascinating, with optical finger
navigation buttons for controls, and
a 279-PS petrol-electric driveline that
emits just 28 g/km.
NISSAN Gripz
NISSAN GET TO GRIPS WITH REALITY AND DELIVER A CAR WHICH THE WORLD MAY JUST HAVE
been longing for — a blend of everyday commuter and weekend adventurer in one sharp and
wholesome compact crossover package. Nissan say it pays tribute to their original ‘crossover’, the
rally-winning (Datsun) 240Z. Power comes from the same electric motor from the Leaf,
but with an efficient petrol motor to back it up when needed.

BUGATTI Vision Gran Turismo
VISION GT
THE VISION GRAN TURISMO

is more than curves and flaps with
the intent of featuring in an iconic
video game title, it’s basically the Chiron in
disguise. The successor to the Veyron is
expected to be officially unveiled soon and what
better way to build up the drama than to have a Vision GT
model for enthusiasts to drool on. As Car India had reported
earlier, the new car would be named the Chiron and would pack
a revised and more potent motor, highly expected to be a tuned
up W16 with electric turbos and over 1,500 PS and 1,800 Nm.
HYUNDAI N 2025 Vision GT

HYUNDAI HAVEN’T BEEN SITTING AROUND
making fluid-designed cars and challenging
in the World Rally Championship; no, their
N-Performance division is set to take shape
soon and the N 2025 Vision GT is just the
way to go. No one in their right mind
would imagine a slanting
handshake H badge on
something as futuristic
and mind-blowing as
this, the former, yes,
but surely not the
latter. The future is
looking good for the
Koreans.

BULLETIN Domestic News
Ferrari launch the California T,

a showroom and merchandise
FERRARI HAVE OFFICIALLY MADE THEIR features, many of which are available.
entry into India. The Italian marque also Ferrari had earlier divulged similar base
opened a new showroom in Mumbai and pricing for their models on sale. Apart from
launched the California T as well. their hybrid hypercar, LaFerrari, the rest of
The new Ferrari showroom, Navnit the range, including the almost-sold-out
Motors at the Bandra-Kurla Complex, will 458 Speciale, is on sale. We also expect to
become fully operational this month. This see the just-revealed 488 Spider, the
includes sales and after-sales support for convertible version of the 488 GTB, to join
service and spares. Not only new customers the line-up in India shortly. The pricing for
but also previous Ferrari customers can the range on offer is as follows:
avail service support at Navnit Motors. 458 Spider: Rs 4.07 crore
Meanwhile, the new turbocharged 458 Speciale: Rs 4.25 crore
California T replaces the naturally aspirated 488 GTB: Rs 3.84 crore
California as Ferrari’s entry grand touring FF: Rs 4.57 crore
convertible. The California T is powered by F12berlinetta: Rs 4.72 crore
a 3.9-litre twin-turbo V8 engine that makes Ferrari have also tied up with popular
560 Italian thoroughbreds and 755 Nm of e-commerce portal Myntra to retail official
torque. The new 3,855-cc engine, despite Ferrari merchandise. Myntra have launched
being 442 cc less, has about 50 per cent an official online Ferrari store that will cater
more torque, and is 15 per cent more to the fans of the brand. The store will offer
efficient as well. A seven-speed twin-clutch a wide range of casual clothing and apparel
F1-derived transmission drives the rear for men and women. These will include
wheels. Ferrari branded Polo and round-neck
The California T is available at Rs 3.45 T-shirts, shirts, jackets, sweaters, trousers,
crore. And that’s the base asking price caps, sunglasses, and bags, priced between
without any customisation or optional Rs 2,399 and Rs 12,300.

Mercedes Reduce CLA Class Prices,
expand footprint WE HEAR
MERCEDES-BENZ INDIA HAVE ANNOUNCED THAT A statement issued by the company said that
they have started local production of the CLA the local production would help Mercedes-Benz
Class, making it the seventh car bearing the to cater to the exceptional demand that is
three-pointed star to be made in India. They expected with the onset of the festive season.
have also started making the GLA 200 (petrol) Furthermore, this will also help the company to
locally. As a result of this localisation, the address the wait list of the CLA across markets.
company has been able to slash prices of both The company inaugurated three new facilities
the CLA and the GLA by Rs 1 to 2 lakh. The CLA in the city of Chennai (Tamil Nadu) and two in
Class now starts at Rs 30.7 Calicut (Kerala). With these
lakh for the 200 CDI Style new outlets, Mercedes-
and goes up to Rs 33.9 lakh Benz India have extended
for the 200 CDI Sport. The their reach to 78
Renault showcase Alaskan
petrol variant of the car, the dealerships in 36 cities in
Renault recently showcased the Alaskan
CLA 200 Sport, now carries India, the most extensive
concept, which is their second pick-up truck
a sticker of Rs 32.9 lakh (all of any luxury car-maker in
concept after the Oroch that was shown in
prices ex-showroom). India.
Buenos Aires, in Paris. What draws attention
foremost is the one-tonne Alaskan’s
imposing front grille with the big Renault
diamond logo at the centre. The grille is in
line with the business looks many new
Renault models are coming to have,
including the Kwid. In a twin-cab guise, the
‘show’ pick-up has intricate LED tail-lamps
on either side of the tail-gate. The dCi 190
written on chrome indents built into the
flanks indicate a 190-PS four-cylinder version
of a twin-turbo diesel engine. Expect a
detailed preview of the Renault Alaskan in
the November issue of Car India.
Surat is Home to a New Volvo Dealership

VOLVO AUTO INDIA LOOK SET TO TRANSFORM ”Gujarat is a very promising market for Volvo
Surat with their new showroom, Autobots, in cars. The launch of the XC90 in Surat will help us
Gujarat, unveiling their flagship model, the all- capitalise on the ever-growing demand for
new XC90, there in the process. luxury cars in the region. This would not only Nissan’s 200th Dealership
Autobots is owned by Dhaval Thakker and is mark our entry into Surat but also help us foray Nissan’s network has reached 200
located on the Piplod-Dumad Road. Spread over and penetrate further into the western region. dealerships now. The company recently
an area of 4,000 square feet, this stand-alone With a positive YOY growth, Volvo is one of the announced the opening of Ritu Nissan in
luxury retail experience offers potential fastest growing luxury car-makers in India. Volvo Mumbai. Led by Manoj Lalwani, Ritu Nissan
customers a modern and contemporary cars will continue to strengthen its national has more than 13 years of experience in the
showroom with an inviting interior design that footprint across the country and create more automotive sales and service industry. This
speaks of Volvo’s new ‘Retail Experience’ value for its customers. Given the expanding will be the fourth dealership in Mumbai and
concept, with a ‘cool on the outside, warm on luxury market in India, we have launched several will provide sales and service for the Nissan
the inside’ feel. The fully-fledged workshop is new models in 2015 [XC90, V40, S60 and V40 XC as well as the Datsun brand. In the past
equipped with the latest diagnostic tools and petrol] and continuously enhanced our service financial year the company has opened
equipment especially meant for servicing Volvo network.” over 18 outlets in urban as well as semi-
cars. Personalised technicians are trained for The all-new XC90 has been priced at Rs 67.6 urban locations. The company aims to
service at the dealership. lakh for the Momentum trim, and Rs 80.9 lakh expand its footprint to 300 dealerships by
Speaking on the occasion, Tom von Bonsdorff, for the top-of-the-line Inscription trim, both the end of 2016.
Managing Director, Volvo Auto India, said, ex-showroom, Surat, pre-octroi.

BULLETIN International News
Ford Unveil Mustang Shelby GT350R
FORD RECENTLY UNVEILED THE SHELBY flat-plane crankshaft. This massive engine seeking greater comfort, Ford offer an optional
GT350R, which is slated to arrive later this year. churns out over 500 PS and more than 542 Nm Electronic Package which includes dual-zone
The new Mustang has also been called the most of torque, one of the most powerful naturally air-conditioning, eight-inch infotainment
track-ready road-going Mustang ever built. aspirated engines built by the company. system, turn mirrors and seven-speaker audio
Ford and Carroll Shelby developed a road- To help enhance the car’s performance, Ford system.
racing version of the Ford Mustang in 1965: the have taken a few steps to reduce its weight by This limited-production GT350R will be
Shelby GT350 Competition Model. It was one of removing various components such as the air- available in the US by the end of 2015. We
the most iconic Mustangs ever produced. The conditioning, stereo system, rear seats, trunk expect to see the Mustang GT here in the near
new GT350R continues this racing legacy. floorboard, tyre sealer and inflater, and the future, and since the company has unveiled the
Under the hood, the GT350R sports Ford’s exhaust resonators, making it 59 kg lighter than Shelby GT350R, maybe, we’ll see it arrive here
first-ever 5.2-litre, dual-overhead-cam V8 with a the Shelby GT350. But for the enthusiasts soon as well.
Hyundai’s New EV? Apollo, Man Utd Extend

HYUNDAI MOTOR IS THE FASTEST
growing car brand in the world and
helps to reduce drag and to
increase efficiency. Reports on the Partnership Reach
in keeping with its rapid pace, the internet also suggest that this new MANCHESTER UNITED FOOTBALL Vietnam, the Philippines,
company introduced the iX35 car will have a design similar to the club have one of the biggest fan Singapore, Cambodia, Laos,
Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle some next-generation Elantra and that bases spread across all corners of Myanmar and Brunei.
time back. However, Hyundai might the globe. Apollo Tyres, United’s Apart from the football school
now the company is release a petrol- commercial partner, has decided to programmes in India, Apollo also
focusing its energies powered version of capitalise on the club’s popularity launched a limited-edition United
on developing a new the same as well. by expanding this partnership to branded tyre in its existing 15”
all-electric car that is This new car is cover a larger geographical swathe. Alnac 4G range. So even more
supposedly going to expected to be Now the partnership covers not Manchester United fans who wear
rival Toyota’s Prius, launched at the end just the 67 countries in Asia, Europe their badge on their sleeves (and
especially in the US of 2016, though and a few countries of Africa, but on their tyres) now have the
market. According to numerous Hyundai have not confirmed also the whole of Africa, chance to associate with
reports on the internet, the design anything related to this latest and a few Asian countries one of the club’s foremost
of the car is aerodynamic, which happening. such as Malaysia, commercial partners.

BULLETIN
JUST LAUNCHED
We bring you the dope on all the latest cars that are in the news
MAHINDRA TUV300
MAHINDRA RECENTLY LAUNCHED THEIR MUCH-
awaited TUV300 compact SUV, with its price starting
at Rs 6.90 lakh and going up to Rs 9.12 lakh (ex-
showroom, Pune). Dubbed the “true-blue SUV” by
the Indian SUV specialist, the Mahindra TUV300
brings to the table a brand-new design language
where Mahindra’s exterior styling is concerned. This
new compact SUV is packed with features and for
more on those you may refer to our road test on
page number 78.
AUDI A6 35 TFSI MATRIX RENAULT DUSTER EXPLORE EDITION

AUDI RECENTLY LAUNCHED THE PETROL VARIANT OF THE FACELIFT A6 AT RENAULT INDIA HAVE LAUNCHED A SPECIAL ‘EXPLORE’ EDITION OF THE
a price of Rs 45.90 lakh (ex-Delhi). This new A6 comes loaded with all the Duster, in both dCi85 and dCi110 guises, at Rs 9.99 lakh and Rs 11.1 lakh
features seen in the A6 TDI Matrix, which was launched a month ago. The (ex-Delhi) respectively. The Explore features a slightly reworked exterior
A6 35 TFSI gets a new 1.8-litre TFSI motor, which is smaller than the and tweaked interior. A bull-bar, auxiliary lamps, dark-chrome grille,
earlier 2.0-litre unit. However, the power and torque output stand higher smoked headlamps, stripes on the hood, decals and a big ‘Explore’
at 190 PS and 320 Nm respectively. Audi have also done away with the sticker on the outside are the major changes. Inside, a black-and-orange
CVT, with a seven-speed S Tronic dual-clutch box transferring drive to the theme dominates the cabin, with more chrome, and orange stitching on
front wheels. The new petrol A6 also gets a start/stop system which the steering wheel. The mechanicals of the car remain unchanged.
enhances its fuel efficiency. Like the diesel variant, the A6 35 TFSI also
comes only in one variant.

BULLETIN
JUST LAUNCHED
We bring you the dope on all the latest cars that are in the news
MERCEDES-AMG C 63 S MARUTI SUZUKI CIAZ SHVS

MERCEDES-BENZ INDIA HAVE LAUNCHED THE MERCEDES-AMG C 63 S AT MARUTI SUZUKI INDIA LIMITED HAVE INTRODUCED A MILD-HYBRID
Rs 1.3 crore, (ex-showroom, Delhi). Awarded the ‘World Car of the Year’, diesel version of their popular sedan, the Ciaz SHVS (Smart Hybrid
the AMG C 63 S is the 10th AMG model to be launched in the country. Vehicle by Suzuki), from Rs 8.23 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). The new Ciaz
The AMG C 63 S is powered by a familiar 4.0-litre V8 BiTurbo petrol retains the 1.3-litre DDiS turbo-diesel motor; however, the SHVS variant
engine that puts out a peak 510 PS at 5,500 RPM and 700 Nm, which now replaces the regular diesel variant. The SHVS Ciaz comes with an
kicks in at 1,750 RPM and stays flat till 4,500 RPM. Transmission is via the integrated starter generator (ISG) with torque assist, an energy recovery
AMG SpeedShift MCT seven-speed automatic driving the rear wheels. The system (ERS), a beefed-up battery, and an intelligent idle start/stop
claimed 0-100 km/h acceleration time is 4.0 seconds with the top speed system. All these additions have made the new Ciaz even more efficient.
limited to 250 km/h.
The car gets a techno-package worthy of its more than healthy output
with the AMG Dynamic Select transmission modes offering five options:
Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Race and Individual.
AUDI A3 40 TFSI PREMIUM FORD FIGO

AUDI’S AGGRESSION IN THE ENTRY-LEVEL LUXURY SEGMENT CONTINUES FORD INDIA HAVE INTRODUCED THE NEW FIGO, PACKED WITH
with the company recently launching a brand-new variant of its entry- powerful motors and new features, priced between Rs 4.3 lakh and Rs 7.4
level model, the A3. Called the A3 40 TFSI Premium, this new variant is lakh (ex-Delhi). The contemporary front end is a welcome change, as is
available at a price of Rs 25.5 lakh (ex-Mumbai), making it the most the new interior and new engine line-up: an 88-PS 1.2-litre Ti-VCT petrol
affordable Audi in India. It uses the same 1.8-litre TFSI petrol engine, manual and a 1.5-litre Ti-VCT petrol PowerShift automatic. The diesel is
producing 180 PS and 250 Nm of torque, which served the earlier now a 1.5-litre unit with all of 100 PS, making this car rank among the
Premium+ variant. The Premium variant has replaced the earlier most powerful diesel compact hatchbacks on sale.
Premium+ variant, becoming the basic petrol-powered A3 available in
the country.
The Premium variant comes with less features as compared to the
Premium+, but it still retains an exhaustive list of features, the most
appealing of them being the price.

INBOX
making a supercar right here on Indian of supercars is their heritage, which is an
soil for the Indian market? An affordable GET aspect that a new entrant will not be able
IN TOUCH
supercar made keeping our country’s to bring to the table.
extreme conditions in mind would be
EMAIL
absolutely wicked! carindia@ KEEP THE STORIES COMING
Darius Pudumji, Mumbai nextgenpublishing.net I read the Ford Endeavour story in the
September 2015 issue and I must say it
ON THE HORNS OF A DILEMMA Dear Darius, TWITTER was a comprehensive one. As a loyal
@carindia
First and foremost, I would like to thank The DC Avanti is still under development, Ford customer, I can’t wait to get my
the entire Car India team for your and details about its exact date of launch, hands on one. The Everest with its
FACEBOOK
contribution to automobile journalism. etc, are not known as yet. Stay tuned, facebook.com/carindia 3.2-litre turbo diesel looks like a
Having been blessed with a girl child though, because as soon as we find out, formidable offering. Thank you for
recently, I wish to switch from my present we’ll put the word out on our web-based POST bringing us the news and keep the
Car India,
two-wheeler to a four-wheeler so as to be channels such as carindia.com and our Next Gen Automotive,
stories coming.
able to travel with my family on weekends Facebook and Twitter handles, and publish 401B, Gandhi Empire, Avinash Mathur, Ranchi
5th Floor, 2, Serene
and also to use the car for daily the news in the magazine too. As for the Estate, Kondhwa Road,
commuting. Indian manufacturers entering the supercar Pune - 411040 Hello, Avinash,
There too many options available in space, this particular segment calls for a The Everest, or the Endeavour as it will
the market and I find myself confused. I heavy investment and is very niche by its be called here, will arrive soon, so you
am looking for a fuel-efficient and very nature. That is, perhaps, why Indian won’t have to wait for long. It is very
economical petrol hatchback that can fit manufacturers do not see it as a viable gratifying to read that your liked our
within my budget. My options are the space. Furthermore, a big part of the appeal review.
Honda Brio, which, though not
equipped with ABS and airbags, I can
trust on the basis of Honda’s build
quality, and the Maruti Suzuki Celerio,
letter of the month
whose review I read recently in your
magazine. This car comes equipped with LOOKING FOR A SAFE CAR FOR MY SON
ABS and airbags, which makes it difficult Frankly speaking, I haven’t been following bones car with competent handling that can be
for me to choose between the two. Please automobile publications for too long. Since my accessorised with a basic music system. Don’t
advise me. son left for college and, surprising as it may you think so too?
Moin Khan, Secunderabad sound, asked for my advice on which car I I hope we see more stringent safety regulations
thought was fit for him, I began researching in the very near future, because things are really
Dear Moin, wherever I could. I found your magazine quite getting out of hand with each passing day.
Congratulations on the new arrival in your informative as compared to many others and I Dr Vighnesh Kadam, Pune
family! The top three models of the Honda really liked your style of writing. Your website, on
Brio come equipped with ABS, with the the other hand, proved Dear Dr Vighnesh,
top two having front airbags, too, along quite a bit of trouble and We’re glad to learn that
with the Advanced Compatibility would not load easily. you found our magazine
Engineering (ACE) that you alluded to. You need to do informative. Thank you
You may, therefore, consider these variants something on that front. also for bringing to out
of the Brio as options. As we always say, The cars I am looking attention the website issue;
actual test-drives these two will enable you at are the new Maruti we will look into it
to make a final decision. Suzuki Alto K10 or the forthwith. We’ve reviewed
Renault Kwid. From the Renault Kwid in this
HOW ABOUT AN INDIGENOUS what I’ve heard, the Kwid very issue. You may read
SUPERCAR? is quite a dynamic car and beats the Alto on the what we think of the car on page 46. We can’t pass
I love the supercar coverage you carry in feel and performance fronts. Its claimed fuel a definitive judgement on the safety aspect of both
your magazine. It is awesome to read and economy also caught my eye. You see, I want a the aforementioned cars until they’re subjected to a
really gives one a feel for what the cars are car which will be safe for my son. Unfortunately, standardised safety test such as the Euro NCAP.
all about. I can close my eyes and almost however, safety seems to be non-existent in the We would, however, suggest that you drive both
imagine myself behind the wheel of one. price bracket we are looking at. Rather than the cars to see for yourself which one suits you
What happened to DC’s Avanti? Is that having a flimsy car with no safety kit or better in all respects, including safety and dynamics.
going on sale in India? Does it really commendable dynamics, I’d rather he had a bare- We wish you happy and safe motoring.
qualify as a supercar? And will India’s
own manufacturers like Tata, Maruti, et
al, or any of the others ever go about

Mark THE CRITIC
Walton
‘Would Nuvolari, Clark
and Senna beat Fangio in
identical cars? We’d need
to exhume them too’
JUAN MANUEL FANGIO opportunity for something else, the Fangio Foundation, and the Jackie Stewart, we could just
is definitely dead. This too. A little experiment. family (which may be about to write him a polite letter.
indisputable fact was confirmed So I’ll come right out and say get bigger); plus the scientific Picture it: it’s the year 2055,
last month when the poor old it: cloning. challenges of cloning a human and we’re in Melbourne for the
five-time world champion was Come on, admit it: race fans being from tissue that’s been start of the new season. Bernie
dug up and wheeled out of the have always argued about who’s dead for 20 years — putting Ecclestone, aged 124 and still in
family crypt in his home town of the best driver of all time — you these issues aside, there’s also charge of Formula One, would
Balcarce, Argentina. The legend know, ‘was it Fangio, Clark, the problem that a New Fangio, be doing the pit walk with
lives on, perhaps, but the Senna, or Schumacher’, etc. And born in 2016, wouldn’t be ready Martin Brundle (cloned).
authorities have confirmed that that debate has always been to race for at least 20 years. In There’s Fangio, squeezed into
Fangio himself is still very much impossible to resolve, because fact, in order for him to live the his size XXXL race-suit, lining
deceased, and lying in the box he each generation of drivers needs Original Fangio’s life, his first up in the Silver Arrows with
was placed in back in 1995. different skills — Fangio drove Grand Prix wouldn’t come till he Lewis Hamilton; behind him
Fangio was dug up because there’s Vettel and Schumacher in
two men in their seventies say the Ferraris; then Senna and
that he was their father, and after RACE FANS HAVE ALWAYS ARGUED James Hunt enjoying a little
a long-running paternity battle
an Argentinian judge finally ABOUT WHO’S THE BEST DRIVER laugh before they climb into the
two McLarens. They’re best
ordered the world champion’s
body be taken out of the
OF ALL TIME — YOU KNOW, ‘WAS pals. Then in the Lotuses there’s
Jim Clark and his team-mate,
cemetery and sent down the IT FANGIO, CLARK, SENNA, OR Pastor Maldonado (after
morgue for a DNA sample to be winning four world titles,
taken. The results will be known SCHUMACHER’, ETC Maldonado contributed his
in a month or so. DNA on his retirement in 2021).
Fangio never married, but he big, heavy front-engined Mercs reaches 37 (Fangio was a late It would be a season of epic
always had a glamorous girl on and Maseratis, Clark drove starter), and he’d be in his prime awesomeness.
his arm, so it’s not impossible featherweight mid-engined in his 40s. By which time Lewis And who
that there were going to be one Lotuses, Senna manhandled Hamilton will be 70. would win?
or two — or, perhaps, a whole 1,500-PS turbo McLaren- Clearly, there’s an answer to I’ll leave you
pit crew — of little Juan Hondas. this. We have to take Lewis to debate
Manuels running around. And But imagine, for a moment, if Hamilton’s DNA, too, as well as that.
there are family resemblances: we could really find out; imagine Vettel’s and Alonso’s, so we can
one of the men involved in the if Fangio, the actual Fangio, start preparing now for the
paternity claim, Oscar Espinoza, could go head-to-head with unmissable Battle Royale that
was an F2 driver for a while, Hamilton and Vettel! In the will be the 2055 F1 World
racing under the name ‘Cacho same cars, on the same track! Championship. (Max
Fangio’ (he says he always knew Now that is a race I’d stay awake Verstappen will be all right, he’ll
the great man was his dad); the for, perhaps even all Sunday still only be 23.)
other, Ruben Vazquez, never afternoon till 4.00 pm. To truly nail all those ‘best
raced, but he is a dead-ringer for My plan is not without its driver’ debates, though, we can’t
the deceased champion. difficulties: putting aside the stop there. What about
The men say they don’t want complex legal and moral Nuvolari, Clark and Senna?
money, they just want answers, questions of using Fangio’s Would they beat Fangio in
but a morbid, disrespectful part DNA in this way; and the identical machinery? We’d
of me wonders if this isn’t an undoubted howls of protest from need to exhume them too.

EMISSION ZERO
Electrifyingly Emotional
Porsche showcased the brilliant Mission E concept to a charged audience

at the Internationale Automobil Ausstellung (IAA) in Frankfurt
Story: Aninda Sardar
B
ACK IN THE DAY, WHEN battery can be charged up to 80 per cent efficiency. For example, integrated air guides
‘environment-friendliness’ was (good for a driving range of 400 km) in just improve airflow around the wheels and air
still a somewhat obscure term, 15 minutes. outlets on the sides reduce overpressure in
Tesla showed the world that The Mission E’s drive system comprises the wheel wells, reducing lift. At the same
electric could really be two permanent magnet synchronous motors time, the much reduced sculpting of the
electrifyingly exciting. Cut to (PMSM) that accelerate the vehicle and front end shows a classic Porsche
present day Germany, Frankfurt also recover braking energy. The need- sweepback, harking back to the 918 Spyder.
(to be precise), and we saw based all-wheel-drive system with Porsche The Mission E gets new matrix LED
Porsche showcase the brilliant Mission E to Torque Vectoring, which automatically headlamps and distinctive front wings and a
a charged audience at the Internationale distributes torque to the individual wheels, low-cut bonnet that’s reminiscent of the 911.
Automobil Ausstellung (IAA). transfers the power to the road. Meanwhile, The line of the side windows is also similar
The Mission E is the brand’s first-ever an innovative all-wheel steering system to that of the 911; however, there are two
all-electric four-seater sports car and not ensures accurate and sporty steering. counter-opening doors without a B-pillar.
only does it bring to the fore some The Mission E also boasts of a low centre Also noteworthy is the interior where the
genuinely cutting-edge technology but also of gravity, optimal weight distribution and a lack of a transmission tunnel opens up
in a package that is unmistakably Porsche. lightweight concept using a mix of space and gives the cabin an airier
Not to mention genuine Porsche aluminium, steel and carbon-fibre ambience. Four individual seats are
performance. Sample the claimed 0-100 reinforced polymer. The Li-ion battery inspired by race bucket-seats. The other
km/h acceleration time of less than 3.5 spans the entire distance between the front aspect of the interior that captures the
seconds and 0-200 km/h in less than 12 and rear axles and is mounted in the imagination is the innovative display and
seconds if you don’t believe us. According underbody, ensuring a uniform front to back control system. The instrument cluster
to Porsche, the Mission E features the first weight distribution. shows the classic Porsche five round
800-volt drive system that generates 600 The Mission E’s design language instruments, but they are displayed
PS and provides a range of over 500 combines the best Porsche traditions of virtually in Organic LED (OLED)
kilometres. Porsche also claim that the car’s emotional sportiness with enhanced aero technology. An eye-tracking system detects

1
1 INNOVATIVE INTERIOR:
The unique instrumentation is
a virtual display that adjusts
itself to eliminate parallax.
There is also a holographic
display with gesture control
2 WHEELS OF THE FUTURE:

The Mission E gets 21-inch
carbon wheels up front and
22-inch carbon wheels at the
rear. Although tyre specs are
unknown, they will definitely
be wide section tyres
3 AERODYNAMIC BEAUTY:
The design of the Mission E not
only gives it a classically
sweptback stance that is
typically Porsche but also
optimises aerodynamic 2
efficiency
which instrument the driver is viewing. He

can then activate the menu of the
instrument in focus by pushing a button on
the steering wheel. Additionally, the 3D 4
instruments also adjust their positioning in
tandem with the driver’s to mitigate the
effects of parallax.
Last but not the least, the dashboard is
divided into a couple of 3D layers where the
upper half integrates into the driver’s
display. The lower half offers a holographic
display of individually selectable apps that
are arranged by priority. The driver or
passenger can use any of them via gestures
that are detected by sensors, thus making
the system virtually touch-free. The concept
vehicle can also be configured externally 3
from a tablet via Porsche Car Connect.

BOSCH TECHNO BIBLE
LEAF SPRINGS
One of the oldest suspension systems, the parabolic leaf-spring set-up,
also called a semi-elliptical spring, is commonly seen on SUVs and cars
with a ladder-frame chassis. They use a number of curved metal plates
stacked together, usually with both edges of the arc connecting the
body and the centre of the curve mounted using a bracket on to the
axle. Leaf springs provide a stiff ride but are ideal for varying loads and
demanding conditions. They also make for a relatively cost-effective
way to spring a large vehicle. Common examples are the old Land
Rover Defender and Mahindra’s Thar and first-generation Scorpio.
MACPHERSON STRUT DOUBLE

The most popular front WISHBONE
suspension on cars today, the A type of independent
MacPherson Strut serves as a suspension system which
steering pivot as well as a uses two arms of a ‘wish-
suspension mount. Developed bone’ shape to locate the
by Earle MacPherson, it uses a wheel. Each wishbone has
wishbone, or a compression two mounting points to the
link stabilised by a secondary chassis and one at the
link, that provides a bottom knuckle. The shock-absorber
mounting point for the hub and coil spring are mounted
carrier or wheel axle. The to the wishbones to control
lower arm allows both lateral vertical movement. The
and longitudinal location of double-wishbone design
the wheel. The upper part of allows for optimised control
the hub carrier is rigidly fixed for the motion of the wheel
to the bottom of the outer part throughout suspension
of the strut, which, in turn, travel, especially over other
extends upwards, directly parameters like camber and
connected to the body. caster angles.
ESP WITH INTEGRATED INERTIAL SENSORS

IN THIS VERSION OF THE ELECTRONIC STABILITY
Programme, or ESP, the sensors for measuring the
yaw rate and the lateral and longitudinal
acceleration are integrated into the ESP control
unit. In the past, these sensors were installed
separately in the interior of the common housing and
connected via the wiring harness to the ESP control
unit. The hydraulic unit is supplied with pre-mounted
isolators. This reduces the assembly cost and effort
to fit the complete ESP system into the vehicle.
The sensors integrated in the ESP control unit
are adapted to the high temperature level in the
engine compartment. A vibration-reduced and
balance-optimised three-point mounting bracket
of the hydraulic unit ensures that high vehicle
accelerations will not distort the sensor output
signal. Even driving on rough roads will not
influence the ESP function.

ANTI-ROLL BAR
Commonly known as a stabiliser bar or sway bar, the anti-roll bar connects the left
and right suspension at the front and rear, to fine-tune handling characteristics. The
bar acts as a spring, with its ends connected to arms attached to the suspension
linkages on each side via ball-joints. When both wheels take a bump equally, they
move the same amount without twisting the anti-roll bar. The linkage comes into
effect when individual wheel movements or body-roll compresses the suspension on
either side to different levels. The bar twists when the lever arms on both sides are
moved differently and the spring rate of the bar adds to that of the car’s springs. This
primarily controls body-roll while cornering and also improves overall handling.
INDEPENDENT COIL SPRINGS SHOCK-ABSORBER

Independent A hydraulic damping unit consisting of two tubes, one
suspension results in a inside the other, containing spring-loaded check valves
better and a more and orifices to control the flow of oil through an internal
balanced ride quality, piston. It connects the upper and lower portions of a car’s
allowing more control suspension system and helps minimise the shock from
over the steering bumps on the road. It is commonly used in conjunction
system in some cases. with coil springs.
Coil springs are
essentially steel or,
more recently, glass-
fibre coils mounted
over a shock-absorber
to provide for the car’s
suspension and
damping duties. They
are paired with anti-
roll bars for added
stability.
TRAILING ARM AIR SPRINGS

A trailing arm is a kind Air springs, used for adaptive air suspension, are part of
of independent an electronically-controlled pneumatic suspension
suspension that has a system that connects the body to all four wheels of the
pivot axis exactly car. They adjust their damping based on prevalent road
across the vehicle, or conditions and the car’s speed to achieve the best
perpendicular to the possible balance between handling and ride quality. They
longitudinal axis. In also adjust the ground clearance depending upon speed
this set-up, the wheels to achieve a lower centre of gravity, improved
always stay upright aerodynamics and directional stability.
relative to the body,
and thus tend to lean
with the body in a
corner. Trailing arm
suspension is
usually found at
the rear of
front-wheel-
drive cars.

FIRST DRIVE
ITH MY HEART Abarth’s iteration of the Punto Evo

on fire and my pulse and even though the design is old, it
racing faster as the still manages to strike all the right
clock ticked away, I chords. To the untrained eye, it might
find myself driving not look anything more than
the second Abarth offering in India: beautiful, but look closely and those
the FIAT Punto Evo Abarth. It has scorpions on the car suggest
less power and torque than the little something out of the ordinary. That is
pocket-rocket called the 595 the Abarth badge and it means you
Competizione (Abarth’s first offering had better back off that puny little
in India) but despite the deficit, I 1.2-litre hatch of yours or else... They
still find myself grinning about it. are present in abundance, on the
This Punto put a smile on my face, exterior as well as the interior,
read on to find out how it did that. proudly announcing to the world that
Covered in shiny black shade, the you have a fabulous hot hatch.
Punto Evo Abarth is a gorgeous car to The badges alone do the talking;
look at. The Italians are design gods however, to add some more weight to
for me because 90 per cent of the time the statement, FIAT simply slapped
their creations turn out to be awesome some red racing stripes with Abarth
looking masterpieces that are awe- lettering, an appropriate amount of
inspiring. This car pictured here is chrome and killer looking 16-inch

FIAT are making big waves with
the Abarth brand in India and
now, with this car, they hope to
conquer the hot-hatch segment.
Will it happen? We find out
Story: Ravi Chandnani

Photography: Sanjay Raikar

FIRST DRIVE
The 1.4-litre T-Jet

engine has ample
power on tap
however, the turbo
lag is what will
bother you
Reflections of the
standard car are
evident however, the
scorpion on the
steering and pedals is
a nice touch
“Pincher” style alloys. You really around with the adjustment to find Many FIAT owners will be familiar
don’t need to mess with the styling the least bothersome position. In with this 1.4-litre unit; what they don’t
when you buy one because the Punto addition, the rear seat space is still know, though, is that this guy went to
Evo Abarth looks absolutely perfect an issue. Fit-and-finish is decent, Abarth. The engineers at Abarth
the way it is. but the hard plastic sections still beg slapped it with a turbocharger, which
None the less, you can always opt for improvement. took the total power output to 145 PS
to do up the interior of the car. With a car like this, you expect to and torque shot up to 212 Nm. Sounds
Because when you talk of see it loaded with features, but the car intimidating, doesn’t it?
performance, you imagine a racy we drove came only with an average I don’t often suggest this but you
looking cabin, additional gauges like music system with Bluetooth and have to nail the throttle to experience
boost pressure gauge, a shift gauge, USB connectivity. There is no the Abarth magic. Slot the manual
et cetera, and some sort of carbon- infotainment screen, which is an five-speed gearbox into first, build
fibre trim. What you get instead is a expected feature for a car like this, no up the revs and then let go the clutch
standard Punto Evo’s cabin. Yes, parking camera or sensors. and then hear and feel what 145 PS
there are a few goodies, like the All of that just might change and 212 Nm of torque do to the front
yellow and red stitching on the seats because FIAT are yet to launch the wheels. The Punto lunges forward
and some of that colour in the car and we expect many changes to with gusto, with a violent wheel-spin
instrument console, but everything the interior in order to make this that lays thick black strips on the
else is just good-looking, not racy Scorpion chariot more desirable to the tarmac, properly displaying what this
good-looking. tech-demanding clientele. engine is capable of doing. Although
Apart from these few changes to Nevertheless, one thing I wish the I don’t suggest doing this often, I am
the cabin, there is nothing new to company doesn’t fiddle around with is sure enthusiastic owners will
point out. The driving position is that potent 1.4-litre turbocharged definitely do this regularly just to
still awkward and you have to fiddle monster that dwells under the hood. show off.

The 1.4-litre engine is quite an standstill took me just 10.15 seconds,
aggressive beast; however, to get although I am sure that the car is quite
going I had to keep the revs above capable of doing the same in less than
1,700 RPM because below that there 10 seconds if it came with traction
is hardly anything that happens control. Anyway, the name of the
thanks to the ever-present turbo lag. game here is performance and the
Once the RPM needle crosses 1,700, Punto Evo Abarth offers it in
all hell breaks loose and if you are not abundance. I saw the speedo needle
careful enough, you see the scenery head to 210 km/h before the traffic
pass by at a faster than expected rate. ahead slowed me down. Converting
This unit is refined and quite linear, that to true speed I got a figure of 199
though the turbo-lag makes it painful km/h, which is pretty amazing for a
to drive in the city. Moreover, the hot hatch. However, when it came to
close-ratio five-speed manual roll-ons I was a bit disappointed as it
gearbox, which I think is appropriate takes a long time to travel from 40 to
for a performance hatch, has long 120 km/h in fourth and fifth gears,
throws and the shifts feel spongy. I once again thanks to the turbo-lag.
hope FIAT address this issue, as this But with a sprint timing of 10.15
was just a pre-production model that seconds and a true top speed of 199
we drove. km/h, I reckon that when it comes to
Once I was past the dreaded performance, the Punto Evo Abarth
turbo-lag region, I was falling in love truly shines as a hot hatch.
with the performance this engine has It’s not just the performance that
to offer. Getting to 100 km/h from enthralled me, the handling of this

FIRST DRIVE
hand, was almost perfectly set up. Abarth comes with discs on all four
MANY FIAT OWNERS WILL BE Slightly firmer than the stock car but
not too stiff, it handled our roads
corners, providing more than ample
anchoring power.
FAMILIAR WITH THIS 1.4-LITRE with ease. However, the thuds were
clearly audible. On bad roads, the
After spending an entire afternoon
with this beauty, I can say that it is
UNIT; WHAT THEY DON’T firmer set-up does make the car feel one hell of a car. It has all the right
KNOW, THOUGH, IS THAT a bit nervous, thus hampering the
ride quality a bit. However, on
ingredients of a hot hatch and it has a
gorgeous design to go with that.
THIS GUY WENT TO ABARTH smooth roads it feels much better. In
the twisties, I loved the way the car
Moreover, it has a very raw character
mostly because it is a powerful hatch,
was hugging those corners. All I was which comes only with ABS and two
powered up Punto was also high on doing was pointing the nose into the airbags for added safety. There is no
my mind. Overlooking the awkward corner playing with the throttle and traction control or stability control
driving position, I was able to enjoy brake and, voilà, it was through right now but considering the way we
this Italian’s handling on the twisty without getting or making me Indians drive, I hope that FIAT
roads dotting the countryside near nervous. Stability was good would add these necessary safety
Pune. The steering is quick and throughout. features to the Punto Evo Abarth
responsive, always keeping you There was just enough traction from because it is an awesome car to drive
informed about the front wheels’ the 195/55 R16 Apollo rubber and I hard and you need those safety aids to
activity. I loved the precision with did feel the need for a little bit more stay in one piece.
which it turned the front wheels, traction as there were moments when We expect FIAT to price the Punto
always pointing the nose in the the car was understeering when Evo Abarth below Rs 10 lakh, which
direction I wanted it to. However, I pushed hard. But most of the times it will make it a truly desirable car to
would have loved it even more if it had behaved in a very civil way, keeping own. We also wish that the
some more weight added to it. to the selected line. Brakes, too, were aforementioned issues are taken care
The suspension, on the other impressive; after all, the Punto Evo of by the time the car is launched.
Abarth branding is
prominent on the
outside
Simple instrument
console with Abarth
colours look pretty
decent
FIAT
PUNTO EVO
ABARTH
PRICE
Rs 9-11 lakh (expected)
ENGINE
1,368 cc, in-line four,
turbo-petrol
TRANSMISSION
Five-speed, manual,
front-wheel-drive
MAX POWER
145 PS @ 5,500 RPM
MAX TORQUE
212 Nm @ 2,000-4,000
RPM
PERFORMANCE
0-100 km/h: 10.15s

FIRST DRIVE
Renault Kwid
KWID-ESSENTIAL
SMALL CAR

The compact space has seen a
lot of action, and the latest
entrant should surely stir the
market up. With design,
features and price to drop jaws
and open wallets, how does
the Renault Kwid stack up
against the current crop?
Story: Jim Gorde
W
HEN WAS THE LAST TIME Then there’s the boot space. Under that chunky rear hatch
something small made a big is 300 litres of rectangular area; more than what several cars
change? There aren’t too many I twice the price offer. Fold the rear seats down, and it grows
can recall, especially since we live to 1,115 litres. It’s a big small car. It really is.
in a place where it takes something Now, I may get flak for saying this, but the Kwid,
massive to make a small change. looked at from the top-front three-quarter angle, reminded
Not this time, though, because me of none other than the Chevy Camaro — a
there are instances when a small production-car design I consider to be the most aggressive
change turns out to be one which in automotive history. For the uninitiated, that’s
will indeed make a big difference. Bumblebee from the ‘Transformers’ franchise. It’s the
When I first heard that Renault’s new compact car was headlamp style; especially with the turn indicator
called the Kwid, a flurry of puns flashed through my brain. positioned between it and the butch front grille. The
Then I saw the pictures, and found out about the expected flared, square-ish wheel-arches look neat, but the rear
price, and my first reaction was, ‘Are you kwidding me?’ looks agape. The Kwid only has 13” wheels wrapped in
There are bits of Dacia Sandero and Duster in the new 155/80 rubber. It should have had the option of 14-inchers.
Kwid, and, to be honest, those are credible elder cousins to The Kwid RxT, the top-model badge, has a lot of goodies
have. First of all, let’s make one thing perfectly clear: inside. The MediaNav system appears on the centre
Renault say the Kwid has been inspired by SUV design, console, as seen in the Duster, and makes entertainment,
but are calling it a small hatchback. At the drive event, communication and connectivity much easier. The seven-
Renault head honchos simply grinned when they said that. inch touchscreen is big and feedback from the touch
What it is, the Kwid, is a sub-compact crossover. But they interface is good. The information display is a digital affair
won’t be quoted calling it that. with a large amber readout dead centre, flanked by the fuel
The design is aggressive, contemporary and striking all and temperature gauges. There is no rev-counter — I want
at once and the proportions too make it seem like the to insert a sad smiley here.
answer to city-car aspirants’ dreams. Why buy a sub- The dual-tone cabin actually uses dark grey and really
compact hatchback when you can have a Kwid for a few dark grey so it may seem a monotone at first. The steering
quid more? Then come the numbers. At 3,679 millimetres wheel has a contrast (light) grey accent, when equipped
long, 1,579 mm wide and 1,478 mm high, the Kwid is with the optional driver airbag. There’s the safety aspect
dimensionally superior to its “competition” — which now. The public dictates buying patterns, and to keep
basically consists of cars in the same price range. The costs in check, Renault only offer a driver airbag as an
wheelbase, at 2,422 mm, and ground clearance, at 180 mm, option on the top-spec RxT trim. Another couple of
are both significantly more than in any of its competitors. elements which help identify this approach are the front

FIRST DRIVE
Renault Kwid
Three gloveboxes in
the RxT trim make All digital info
for a good amount display looks
of storage space modern and quite
sporty too
Touchscreen
MediaNav system
takes infotainment
up a level
seats and the lack of adjustable head restraints. Well, I Flat 300-litre
boot with a wide
may be six feet tall, but the seats were just about good loading area make
enough to hold me in place, and the contours only gave it best-in-class and
then some; fold
the essential support. Space is not a complaint, though. down the seats
There’s a lot of it, rest assured. and the volume
At the rear, it’s the same story: good space, adequate grows to a huge
1,115 litres
comfort, but no adjustable head-rests, and manual seat-
belts. Of course, I understand, most people don’t care
enough to buckle up at the rear, but I stand firm on safety,
because I always do, and I missed them. All-new, all-
On to the drive, and this is where the Kwid really plasters aluminium 800-cc
three-pot SCe
a smile on your face. No, it doesn’t have 265 PS and a petrol engine
‘Trophy R’ badge (yet! We hope...) What it does have is 54 delivers 54 PS and
PS from its 799-cc in-line three all-new, all-aluminium 72 Nm and is
optimised for good
petrol motor, accompanied by 72 Nm of torque. The peak bottom- and mid-
power revs had me singing the old Steps song in my head, range performance
because Renault say it develops 54 PS at 5,678 RPM. Peak
torque comes in at 4,386 RPM; try holding on to that
without a tacho!
The five-speed manual gearbox drives the front wheels
and slots rather cleanly. Also, the ergonomics are spot-on,
and, even after spending just a couple of minutes in the car,
my hand found the shift lever naturally. The Renault Kwid
may have an 800-cc engine that picks up slowly, but it’s
light. Very light. The base car is 630 kg; the RxT here, a
tad heavier. That’s 85 PS/tonne. Renault have adopted
intelligent ways to reduce mass. Bolts and screws that
usually total up to 20 kg are down to just eight. The intake
manifold and oil sump, among other parts, are made of
plastic. This further helps one crucial element: fuel
economy. Renault claim 25.17 km/l, making it the most
fuel-efficient petrol car on sale in India.
So the Kwid doesn’t like to be revved, but its dynamics
shine brighter than the sun. Just like the Duster, the
suspension is so sorted. Its ride quality and driving

Wheel mounts
with just three
bolts; note the
intergrated turn
indicator light
Being 180 mm
off the ground
makes Kwid-ditch
practice easy
dynamics are better and more reassuring than some cars bumper protectors to chrome accents and stylised floor
four times its price. The steering is not too light, but not mats, the Kwid offers it all, for added style and
too heavy either. The grip from the tyres could be a lot RENAULT practicality. If you’re too lazy, or busy, to select from
better; give it optional 14” wheels with 175s! Even so, the KWID these — did I mention there’s an app for that? And to
Kwid is planted, and it was a wet day in usually sunny Goa. PRICE view the car, and book it too? — Renault have six packs
The roads were not the best, too, and there was gravel on Rs 3.5-5.0 lakh to choose from. Chrome bits or outdoor goods, there’s
(estimated)
some portions, even on the blind corners, but the Kwid ENGINE
one for everyone. The company also aims to improve
held its own. The rebound damping is phenomenal and it 799-cc, in-line three, customer satisfaction and have an ever-expanding dealer
holds the road just like its big brother. The feel of the car naturally-aspirated, network, which will cross 200 before the end of this
petrol
and the assurance from it clearly – and emphatically – calendar year.
TRANSMISSION
belie its price. There are several examples out there that Five-speed, manual, The Kwid does put a smile on your face. It’s easy to
wish they had such dynamics. front-wheel-drive drive and reassures you with its abilities on the road,
Many buy their first car simply to go from point A to B MAX POWER and, to some extent, even off it. I tried tackling a few
54 PS @ 5,678 RPM
without getting drenched in a sudden downpour. Not the ditches on a barren hill. It has what is wanted by the
MAX TORQUE
Kwid, no. If you like to drive, this is a great first car. It’s 72 Nm @ 4,386 RPM masses, and now we must find out how well the masses
planted, reassuring, and dynamically-gifted. And, then, WEIGHT take to the new Kwid on the block. The Kwid is no small
there’s the personalisation programme. Renault have 60 630 kg change, it really isn’t. You certainly get your money’s
accessories for the Kwid – sixty! From roof-rails and worth. It defines Kwid pro quo.
RIVALS
HYUNDAI EON
0.8/1.0-litre petrol
56/69 PS, 74.5/94 Nm
Manual
Rs 3.6-4.8 lakh
MARUTI SUZUKI ALTO

0.8/1.0-litre petrol
48/68 PS, 69/90 Nm
Manual/automatic
Rs 3.7-4.8 lakh
CHEVROLET SPARK
1.0-litre petrol
63 PS, 90 Nm
Manual
Rs 4.3-5.0 lakh
DATSUN GO
1.2-litre petrol
68 PS, 104 Nm,
Manual
Rs 3.8-4.8 lakh

FIRST DRIVE
S even
BMW 7 Series
Sixth-generation
We were in New York recently for the global launch of the new
BMW 7 Series. We drove it both on the road and a private
racetrack. Here is what the experience was like
Story: Aspi Bhathena Photography: BMW

LL THE LUXURY CARS COME OUT OF and powerful presence at the front end. It is the first car
Europe and England, barring the Lexus, which from BMW to feature an active kidney grille with a
comes from Japan. The big three Germans — visible air-flap control. The air-flap comes into play only
Audi, BMW and Mercedes — are constantly when increased cooling is required, otherwise it remains
trying to outdo each other with their flagship shut. This improves the aerodynamics as well as giving
models. In the past the 7 Series lost out to the the front end an even more eye-catching look due to the
competition in ride quality and luxury as the extra number of bars to the large kidney grille. The
previous-generation cars were focused more headlight units merge into the grille, while the light
on driving dynamics than on comfortable graphic of the familiar BMW circular headlights is
ride quality; it was a driver’s car. levelled off at its upper and lower edges, giving the car a
The global drive of the new 7 Series was held in purposeful and focused look. The hood is honed
upstate New York, about half-an-hour by chopper. perfectly to fit in with the form of the kidney grille’s
The drive was split into two: 100 kilometres on the upper section. The lower air intake stretches wide across
road and a track driving experience on the private the front end, the chrome in the outer edges of the intake
Monticello circuit. and the horizontal contours of the LED fog and the full
The new car looks imposing with its upright stance LED lights underline the car’s broad stance.

FIRST DRIVE
BMW 7 Series
Gesture control is a
New, definitive world-first; has four
smart key with LCD pre-programmed
display allows the gestures, plus one
car to be remote- customisable option
parked up to 1.5
times its length
TwinPower
Turbo V8 petrol
motor dishes out
450 PS and 650 Nm
and is even more
efficient
Rear creature
comforts now
include easy tablet-
control for vehicle
functions, and
wireless charging

More space, connected by a chrome bar extending the full width of the
bespoke feel and
high-quality boot-lid. The rear apron features exhaust tailpipes framed
materials make by chrome surrounds, adding luxurious details to the
the cabin feel all
the more special body of the new 7 Series.
The design of dynamics and luxury reflects in the
interior like the exterior. The interior is of the highest
quality as expected of BMW; in fact, it sets a new
Laser high- benchmark in luxury and comfort. This is the first car in
beams on full-LED the world to have gesture control. You can increase and
headlamps allow
for a dynamic light decrease the volume of the music system or change the
spread as the track or the radio channel with a twirl of your finger. The
situation demands
display key gives the range of the car according to the fuel
level, as also when the service is due. The upholstery is
made from the finest leather and the seats lithely soak you
in them and they have massage functions for further
relaxation. The increased leg-room at the rear is class-
leading and gives you the feeling of sitting in an armchair.
The door-handles are incorporated into the character The rear passengers get a seven-inch touch command
BMW line, which now takes the form of a double swage line. For tablet. The Bowers & Wilkins (B&W) music system is
750Li xDrive the first time, the wrap-around side window frame uses a top-of-the-line and it is worth experiencing the quality of
PRICE single-piece element, elegantly incorporating the
Rs 1.6 crore
sound reproduction. If I were to list all the features it
(estimated, ex-Delhi) Hofmeister kink. Air-vents on the front fender spawn a would take up the whole magazine.
ENGINE chrome trim strip which runs along the lower edge of the The front suspension is double wishbone, with five-
4,395 cc, V8, doors. Its horizontal form accentuates the car’s finely link rear suspension. The standard inclusion of front and
twin-turbo DI, petrol
balanced look and low centre of gravity. The prevalence rear self-levelling air suspension endows this car with the
TRANSMISSION
Eight-speed, of outward-curving surfaces gives the new 7 Series a ride comfort of a luxury sedan. The advantages of the air
automatic, powerful stance from the side on. The new car has shed suspension in the front and rear are enhanced thanks to
all-wheel-drive
85 kg owing to its carbon core construction. The use of the standard dynamic damper control system. The
MAX POWER
450 PS @ carbon-fibre, steel and aluminium makes the body-shell electronically controlled dampers improve ride comfort
5,500-6,000 RPM lighter and stiffer at the same time. and add to the dynamic handling qualities of this car. The
MAX TORQUE The direction of the double swage line extends into the braking is taken care by four ventilated discs.
650 Nm @
1,800-4,500 RPM upper contour of the body and the light strip of the rear The 750i xDrive is powered by a 4,395-cc twin-turbo
ON SALE lights. This creates a harmonious connection between the V8 engine producing 450 PS between 5,500 and 6,000
2016 side and the rear end of the car. Tail-lights feature LED revolutions per minute and a whopping 650 Nm between
technology and the two L-shaped light units are 1,800 and 4,500 RPM. The V8 turbo motor is mated to
Wardrobe partner

FIRST DRIVE
BMW 7 Series
E32 (1986-1994) E65/66 (2001-2008)
Second-generation 7 Series brought in traction Chris Bangle brought a radical change in design to
control, an integrated telephone and fax machine, and the fourth 7. iDrive made its first appearance.
even a wine cooler. Lang long-wheelbase model, or L, Facelift in 2005 saw it become the best-selling 7
made its first appearance. 750iL was the first car in the Series. Hydrogen 7, the hydrogen-powered version
world to have high-intensity discharge headlamps (E68), was introduced; only 100 were produced
F01/02 (2008-2015)
First 7 to feature an eight-speed automatic
transmission, all-wheel drive and double-
E38 (1994-2001) wishbone front suspension. All engines were
E23 (1977-1986) With the third-gen 7, BMW became the first in Europe
TwinPower Turbo units. Second-generation
BMW’s first luxury sedan to use the ‘7’ to offer integrated satellite navigation; also the first 7
iDrive touchpad interface introduced
nomenclature. It replaced the four-door with a diesel engine and a five-speed automatic
version of the New Six (E3). More than transmission; flagship was the 750iL Armoured (that
2,85,000 were built over the 10-plus year featured in the Bond film ‘Tomorrow Never Dies’)
life-span; the longest for any 7 Series
Stronger
construction from
use of carbon-fibre
allows the A-pillar
EfficientLightweight
to be narrower for
inspired by BMW i’s
better visibility
CarbonCore concept
uses carbon-fibre in the
construction to make it
stronger and lighter
an eight-speed auto box and the power is put down on the

road via BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system.
Normally, manufacturers don’t invite people to drive
their luxury sedans on a racetrack but BMW are different;
they wanted to show the dynamic capability of the car.
On the racetrack in Sport mode the new 7 feels like a
sports sedan and you can throw it round corners and it
will hit all the apexes without a fuss. The loss of weight
and body stiffness is evident on the racetrack. On public
roads, where the road surface reminded me of conditions
back home, the 7 ride quality and cabin insulation were
top-class. The moment you touch the throttle pedal the
V8 propels the car with a whoosh and the head-up
display turns red, telling you that you are over the US
speed limit of 55 mph (88 km/h). The new 7 Series has
redefined luxury and dynamics at the same time and has
set a benchmark for the competition.

FIRST DRIVE
Volvo XC90 D5 AWD
CLASS
TOP OF THE
Understanding what is needed and delivering on all counts is what it does.

The all-new Volvo XC90 is here, and it’s the class-topper at the moment.
We’ve been behind the wheel, on the right-hand side this time, and a
couple of hours from home. Is this the one that India will value?
Story: Jim Gorde Photography: Sanjay Raikar

Y
OU KNOW THAT KID WHO ALWAYS simply attaining high marks after evaluation of those
sits at the front of the class? Never says a word. pieces of paper — which would then lead to another piece
Just takes notes of what’s needed and tries hard of paper that is far more valued by the society — takes
to understand the essence of what needs to be courage. Even more so to stand true in an arena where
learned and implemented. That kid has few society dictates what is good and what is bad, even if they
friends, doesn’t know exactly what needs to be don’t know any better themselves.
done, but knows exactly where it is that they Enter the all-new Volvo XC90. The drive comes hot
need to be. That drive to learn and do, not for on the heels of the Euro NCAP announcement where it,
the sake of being recognised, but, simply, to apply what like all new Volvos, earned itself a five-star safety rating,
they’ve learned to make things better, as well as try and including full marks – all of 100 – in the Safety Assist
make things better for everyone else. That kid won’t have category; unprecedented to say the least. We’ve already
top marks, no. There was never any cheating, or peeking driven the new XC90 D5 AWD and T8 Twin Engine
into others’ papers. The effort involved to go beyond Plug-in Hybrid earlier this year in Spain, but this, now,

FIRST DRIVE
Volvo XC90 D5 AWD
is the drive on Indian soil, with the specification that will

be sold here, complete with the steering wheel on the
other side.
And what a specification it is! ‘Inscription Luxury’ as
Volvo Auto India call it, is the absolute top spec – with
seven seats – that they have to offer. But before we get Front seats
into trim details, look at it! The new model comes not just arguably the best
in the segment,
as a breath of fresh air, but like the crisp winds from the now with
cold North that bring a new sense of awakening. The adjustable thigh
support, lumbar,
‘Thor’s Hammer’ LED headlamps, shaped like Mjölner, side and lower
look ultra-modern, and clearly mark the XC90 out as a car bolster support, all
from the future in the present. selectable using a
lever (below) and
The large front grille, those headlamps, the ample the tablet interface
proportions, the five-metre length and the 20-inch alloy
wheels all make it a sight to behold. It was indeed quite a
spectacle in the midst of barely-tamed Mother Nature
where we were called upon to drive the new XC90.
It’s the thoughtfulness that takes the limelight, from the
technology to the design, layout and ergonomics which
elevate comfort to super-luxury sedan levels. The interior
is a mix of perforated Nappa leather, wood, aluminium
and high-quality plastic. The centre console has lost those
numerous buttons – 31 to be precise – and a nine-inch Adaptive-LED
touchscreen takes their place, with just eight essential headlamps have a
Viking-sail inspired
buttons to make things even easier. There is a new 12-inch reflector design
intelligent driver information system (IDIS) behind the and turn with the
steering wheel, as well as a head-up display (HUD). steering wheel
Volvo have categorised the three displays as ‘now, later
and whenever’. The HUD only displays important
information such as the current speed and navigation data.
The IDIS shows important notices in the foreground, with
other information in the background. The centre console
displays the rest, including various car settings. Everything
from connectivity, seat heating and the tyre pressure Intelligent Driver
Information
monitor to the climate control, display, dial theme and System can be
audio settings can be accessed. customised to
Speaking of which, the Inscription trim has racked up sport one of four
themes, including
close to 300 orders in India already, without people even this red-rich
having physically seen the car, because of the extensive ‘Sport’ dial theme

feature list, yes, but also because of its premium sound detail with maximum attention. It is very evident.
system. A 1,400-Watt D-Class amplifier handles the Especially when you look at the old XC90 closely and see
Bowers & Wilkins 19-speaker set-up, including a what the all-new car is like. To touch, the wood trim and
specially-crafted wooden sub-woofer mounted in the rear, aluminium accents feel immensely upmarket. The cabin
delivering audio in three unique environments optimised itself feels so much more special.
for the car: Studio, Stage and Concert; the last-named The front seats are phenomenally comfortable, and now
being arranged to replicate the acoustics of the Göteburg add the extendible thigh support as well as rear and lower
Konserthuset (Gothenburg Concert Hall) for a surreal bolster support — all electronically-adjustable using the
surround-sound experience. selector knob on the seat, and the tablet-interface. The
It’s not just the audio. The feel of the car has changed seats themselves have thinner back-rests, freeing up more
entirely when compared to the first-generation XC90. room at the rear. The third row, too, is more
Everything feels more premium, plusher, as if everyone accommodating, with those up to 170 cm in height able to
who worked on the car slowed down to treat every minute comfortably spend time there. Three rows of individual
1 The central
tweeter is just one
of 19 speakers that 1 5
make up the B&W
premium sound
2 Tablet display
offers a
smartphone-like
swipe-menu and
block-selection 2
interface making it
easy to use even on
the move
3 Water-proofed
smart-key can stay
close to you at all
times, even if you 3
decide to go out for
a swim
4 Finely-crafted
drive mode selector
is bettered only by
the exquisitely
detailed start/stop 4
knob
5 Frame-less rear-
view mirror also
incorporates a
digital compass

FIRST DRIVE
Volvo XC90 D5 AWD
EVERYTHING ON OFFER
MARKS THE XC90 OUT AS
A CAR FROM THE FUTURE
IN THE PRESENT
air controls, four-zone climate control, with the carbon-

filter based interior air quality system, keep the cabin fresh
and comfortable at all times.
The all-new Drive-E 2.0-litre diesel motor powers this
XC90, with 225 PS and 470 Nm. While the figures may
Tailgate has two
not seem class-leading – and they’re not – the motor isn’t closing options:
one that feels lethargic. An eight-speed automatic drives close, or close and
lock the car
all four wheels; keep the motor at reasonable revs, and the
acceleration is more than adequate. Moreover, it’s how it Boot volume is
feels on the move that makes all the difference. 368 litres with all
seats up, with a
The standard air suspension and 4C active chassis maximum of 1,868
ensure a wafting ride and by far the best ride quality of litres with the third
and second rows
any Volvo sold in India yet. The artfully detailed drive folded down
mode selector lets you choose among Eco, Comfort,
Dynamic and Off Road modes. ‘Eco’ lowers the car 10
millimetres, for maximum aero-efficiency, whereas ‘Off
Road’ raises it to its maximum of 267 mm. In the hills, actually feels like one. However, it doesn’t behave like one.
with their miserable road surface, however, it was VOLVO You can throw it into a corner at 70 km/h and it will swoop
‘Comfort’ mode all the way. XC90 D5 AWD in, kiss the apex, and easily power out towards the next
With its short overhangs, the XC90 comfortably deals INSCRIPTION one, all the while keeping you cosseted in luxury.
with all sorts of ditches, filled to capacity with muddied PRICE
There’s more good news on the efficiency front, too.
rain water. The sound-deadening could be much better, Rs 77.9 lakh The Drive-E diesel promises as high as 17 km/l litre on the
but, then again, so could our roads. Things smoothed out (ex-showroom, Pune) highway and even more exceptional exhaust emissions;
ENGINE
soon thereafter but it was still narrow. Thankfully, the 2.0-litre, in-line four,
being a Euro 6-compliant engine. A thorough road test
visibility is very good, and the near two-metre wide XC90 twin-turbo diesel will give real-world details, but until then, the XC90 has
is easily placed. The large windscreen and the wide TRANSMISSION us highly impressed.
panoramic glass roof help the cabin feel open and airy, Eight-speed, At Rs 77.9 lakh (ex-Pune), it is expensive, but compare
automatic,
even with darkness setting in from the fog and imminent all-wheel-drive the options and it suddenly seems very reasonable and
rain. It’s more encouraging to drive too. MAX POWER much better value. Of course, this doesn’t have a badge
Even at 1.8 metres tall and just over two tonnes, it 225 PS @ 4,250 RPM that most covet, rather, it’s a badge well-known to those
cornered through the hills as if it was on rails. Only in the MAX TORQUE who value care, family and, above all, safety. The new
470 Nm @ 1,750-
tightest of hairpins was there a hint of body-roll. The gyro- 2,500 RPM XC90 has all those bases covered – in aluminium and
sensor equipped Roll Stability Control keeps dynamics in WEIGHT concrete. It’s not the supermodel of the classroom, neither
check and that inspires confidence like few other SUVs. In 2,011 kg is it the sports star. It’s the nice guy, and it goes to prove
fact, it barely felt like an SUV. True, it is a big car, and it that they don’t always finish last.

TRAVELOGUE
Renault Duster AWD
Where Seventh
Cloud
Story: Gaurav Nagpal Photography: Aditya Dhiwar
Third time indeed is lucky, as my third round of the Ladakh area

Heaven and
Nine Intertwine
proved. Read on to know why this route must be on every driver’s bucket list

TRAVELOGUE
Renault Duster AWD
“If there is a paradise on earth,

It is this, it is this, it is this!”
T
HESE LINES
are attributed to
Amir Khusrau, the
Sufi musician, poet
and scholar, who is
said to have spoken
thus about Kashmir.
The beauty of
Kashmir can leave you spellbound,
with a vista of colours, a pleasant nip
in the breeze (that can turn into a bite
too), and in general a feeling of peace
and serenity, taking you away from
your day-to-day humdrum existence.
A trip to Leh-Ladakh is a key part
of the Kashmir experience.
Photographers love this for the
gorgeous views on offer, nature-lovers
adore the fact that one view of the
landscape can encompass multiple
colours, and no one shies away from
the all-pervading calm and
contentment. It took me my first visit
to Leh to understand the terminology
“Leh-Ladakh” that I had heard for
ages, and Google revealed that Leh is
the capital of Ladakh, which is one of
the largest towns of Kashmir; thus, the
trip should be “to Leh” or “to
Ladakh”, not “to Leh-Ladakh”.
Etymology apart, Leh is a place
people hope to travel to at least once
Precariously-
balanced stacks of
rocks are common
in this area

in their lifetimes; I, however, found into our hotel a little after 10.00 pm.
myself wrapping up August 2015 with Our drive was planned such that the
my third trip to Leh, driving a 4x4 daily distance to be covered was not
SUV to boot! too much, to allow time for
The drive started from – where else photography and for visiting
– the capital city, Delhi. important spots on the way. We
Accompanying me was our newbie expected Jammu to be cold, but it was
photographer, who was even more actually quite hot. We headed towards
excited about the drive than me, this Patnitop, and on the way we got our
being his first experience of a first taste of twisty roads and crazy
travelogue (and what a place to travel drivers, seemingly straight out of a hill
to!). A delayed inbound flight pushed race from the ‘Fast and Furious’ series.
back our planned departure time, but Be cautious on such roads, as you
we knocked off the 600+ km to our never know what might pop out from
first port of call, Jammu, in a shade around the next bend. We also hit our
under 12 hours. Progress was first (of many, as we would find out
seemingly slow, but bear in mind that over the next few days) traffic jams,
we departed during peak traffic hours, caused by a trailer carrying a train
and thus jostled for road space with bogie down the narrow mountain
tons of vehicles in each town we drove roads. Thankfully, we managed to
through. For quicker progress, always reach Patnitop before it got dark.
leave early and beat the rush. Roads Patnitop is a popular tourist
were great on this leg and we trooped destination in the Udhampur

TRAVELOGUE
Renault Duster AWD
TIPS FOR THE DRIVE

Fuel is consumed much faster in this region Be extra cautious on the hilly roads and cylinders, available at medical stores, in case
due to rough roads, steep climbs, and stop- around the bends; people tend to drive at high someone gets particularly uncomfortable
and-go progress. Check in advance for fuel speed and you might just be unpleasantly Drink enough water, even if you do not feel
availability further along your route (for surprised thirsty as such
instance, the Leh-Manali stretch in particular Do not stay for too long at the high-altitude Carry enough warm clothing as well as
has very few fuel pumps), and carry jerry cans spots, especially the passes. The low oxygen essential medicines for altitude and motion
as a backup measure could make you uneasy. Carry oxygen sickness
Intricately-
district of Jammu and Kashmir Srinagar and the gorgeous Dal Lake,
carved, colourful (J&K). We got up early to capture so how could a mere hotel suffice?
structures are the rays of the sun filtering through The next day it took some effort to
aplenty
the canopy of trees in the vicinity of pull ourselves away from the comfort
our resort, and, after a quick of the houseboat and the stunning
breakfast, we were off towards view of the Lake, but we did set off for
Srinagar. Within just 10 minutes, we Kargil, which is the second largest
found ourselves ensnared by a town in Ladakh after Leh and is
massive traffic jam and, on the famous as the centrepiece of the 1999
advice of the locals, we pulled up at war with Pakistan. Exiting Srinagar,
a petrol pump and waited for an the roads were perfectly smooth but
hour, even managing to grab some soon enough we ran into some rough
shut-eye in that time. When things patches reminiscent of proper off-
seemed to have cleared up, we roading trails at times. Apart from the
ventured back on to the road but road surface, we would often
soon enough we were caught again. encounter sheep, goats and cows
As a result of the intermittent leisurely strolling across the road like
movement, which we would soon nobody’s business. We came to our
get accustomed to, we reached first pass of the drive, Zoji La, which
Srinagar a little after dusk, and it is among the lowest passes in the
was past 9.00 pm when we managed region and played an important part in
to find ourselves a nice houseboat the 1999 war. A quick “click-click”
for the night — after all, it was and it was time to move ahead. Road

quality kept alternating between good
and bad and we finally made it to
Kargil by dusk.
The next day was a rest day, much
welcome after the tough roads on the
previous leg. After a leisurely
breakfast, we drove down to the Suru
river, a tributary of the Indus, and our
SUV proudly posed (as did we) for
some photographs. As with any
riverside, the sand was soft and
demanded caution — the best of
SUVs could easily get stuck here if
parked at the wrong spot and nothing
short of a JCB or the Hulk would be
able to rescue them.
Next we drove to a village called
Hundurman, located near the Line of
Control. From here you can see a part
of Pakistan, specifically village Brolmo
in Pakistan. If you go a few kilometres
further up, you can also see the
villages Bilargu and Gangani in
Pakistan; this second observation
spot, though, is off-limits for tourists
and you need special permission for
this. The evening was spent at the
delightful Roots Ladakh café in the
Kargil market, where we lazed among
the tasteful decorations and upholstery
and gorged on local baked goodies
and sipped hot kahwa.
Now came the big drive — big not
because of distance (which,
incidentally, was the longest thus far
on the drive), but because we were
finally heading to Leh. Heading out of
Kargil, the roads were all right but
deteriorated pretty fast, and the

TRAVELOGUE
Renault Duster AWD
experience was “enhanced” by the
endless army truck convoys. It is as if
they never end — you feel you could
keep overtaking one truck after
another yet never finish, and if you
take one little stop for food or
otherwise, you do it all over again.
The roads became good a few
kilometres later and there were a lot of
sharp bends, fun to zip through.
There were arrow-straight stretches,
too, and it was exciting to see how fast
(safely, of course) we could
take our SUV.
En route we did cross two passes:
Namik La, such a quiet pass that it is
not even to be seen on Google Maps
and featuring what could be India’s
highest television relay centre in the
form of a Prasar Bharati relay tower,
and Fotu La, with excellent approach
roads and striking rock formations.
We finally reached Leh, just short of
which was a towering flag of India
mounted inside a military compound,
with the feeling of patriotism welling
up inside us strongly. Our halt for the
night was a tastefully done up hotel
with a nice palate of bright colours
and wood panelling.
The following morning was the
height of the drive, literally. We were
headed to (supposedly, though falsely)
the highest motorable road in the
world, Khardung La, at a princely
height of 18,380 feet above sea level.
The road leading up to the pass
started out well-surfaced but soon
degraded exponentially and we were
The locals are a

friendly bunch and
happy to pose for
a photograph

WHAT WE DROVE
THE RENAULT DUSTER AWD (ALL-WHEEL DRIVE) PROVED TO BE A MORE THAN
able choice for this ride. The SUV is very well-equipped, with convenience and
safety features in equal measure. Fuel consumption, as indicated by the on-
board display, was 12-13 km/l overall, excellent for this terrain. Five people can
sit in reasonable comfort, with sufficient space for their luggage as well.
largely off-roading our way to the top. set off to another highlight destination
Once you get there, it is like a party of — the Pangong Tso lake. As always,
sorts — everyone is busy clicking the roads were a mixed bag, though
pictures, posing under the Khardung they got pretty bad as we approached
La board, the colourful Buddhist Chang La, whose claims to fame
prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and include it being the third highest
the wind itself biting all visitors with motorable road in the world (at a
the cold. Boards in that area loudly height of 17,586 feet). Among the cafés
advise against staying there for too here is a quaint little one operated by
long as the altitude could make you the Indian Army, where you can pick
uneasy, so we took our customary up some souvenirs. As with other high
photographs and quickly made our passes, do not hang around for too
way back to Leh. long, as you are likely to feel
The evening was spent walking breathless and uneasy fast.
through the busy Leh market, with a Less than five kilometres from
variety of local handicrafts and clothes Pangong Tso, there is a little board
available as well as some great places announcing “first view of world
to eat; the latter included the Gesmo famous Pangong Lake”, and through a
restaurant that offers yak cheese pizzas gap in the mountains you can see this
(as against cow cheese pizzas that we bright blue spot that makes you even
normally eat) as well as other goodies, more eager to get there. Pangong Tso
and we were frequent visitors here. for me is a living wallpaper/postcard
Khardung La dispensed with, we — it looks as good in real life as in

TRAVELOGUE
Renault Duster AWD
pictures. Absolutely breathtaking! It day. On the way, we went through So near yet so far!
gets very cold there in the night, three passes: Taglang La, the highest Another kilometre
though, so we found ourselves some point on the Leh-Manali route, the and we could have
crossed over.
nice log cabins, where we spent two second-highest motorable road in the
nights and explored the lake area world, and a very windy, very cold
during the day. place; Lachulung La, the descent from
The drive back to Leh was tough which takes you through the 21-loop
like the onward leg, and we were Gata Loops; and Nakee La, a quiet
exhausted by the time we checked little pass marked by just a cement
into our hotel. We spent the next day outpost and prayer flags.
exploring the Hemis and Thikse The roads were fabulous in many
monasteries and visited the Druk stretches but as we got closer to
White Lotus School, made famous by Sarchu, they got really bad. Road
the Hindi film ‘3 Idiots’ and, in work and landslides en route delayed
particular, the building where two us quite a bit and we finally reached
students drop a bulb on a live wire at a Sarchu well after dusk. Sarchu
spot where one of the protagonists essentially is a major halt point on the
relieves himself. Leh-Manali highway, with only
Exiting Leh with a somewhat heavy tented accommodation available. We
heart, we drove towards Sarchu. This realised this the next morning (after
was the longest leg of our journey so somehow surviving the chilly night in
far by some distance, with 250 our tents), because as far as the eye
kilometres to be dispatched in one could see, there were only tents. We

wasted no time in getting out and in a
few hours we parked ourselves at a
nice hotel at Keylong, our next halt
point. While getting there, we drove
through Baralacha La, considered
among the more dangerous passes
with narrow roads prone to landslides.
Keylong is a quiet little town, though
significant as it is the administrative
centre of the Lahaul and Spiti district
in Himachal Pradesh.
Keylong to Manali was another
relatively quick drive, just 120
kilometres. The roads got
progressively narrower, and the traffic
got heavier, though the landscape was
still a sight to marvel at. As we got
closer to Manali, we drove through
Young monks hard
Rohtang La, whose name apparently at work on some
translates to “pile of corpses”, truly intricate
paintings
referring to people perishing in bad
weather while trying to cross the pass.
Our stay at Manali was short but
pleasant, and we took some time out
to visit the well-known Hadimba
The shimmering
Temple, which is surrounded by a waters of the
cedar forest at the foot of the stunning Dal Lake
Himalayas. - bliss!

TRAVELOGUE
Renault Duster AWD
As we got closer to Amritsar, we
took a diversion towards the Wagah
Border. Wagah is a village located near
a road border crossing, a goods transit
terminal and a railway station between
India and Pakistan. We got to watch
the lovely Wagah border ceremony,
with a flag ceremony conducted jointly
by the Indian Border Security Force
and the Pakistan Rangers as well as a
sweet song-and-dance routine where
ladies from the audience danced to
patriotic tunes blaring at full volume.
We wrapped up our drive on a rather
auspicious note, with a visit to the
Golden Temple wearing proper
turbans in accordance with the spirit
of the place.
We were now in the closing stages This drive was more of the same,
of our drive. Heading towards the yet a different experience for me. For
final destination, Amritsar, we took the first time, I experienced J&K,
night halts at Mandi (that serves as the Himachal Pradesh and Punjab in all
zonal HQ of the central zone, their beauty and splendour at a
including the districts of Kullu, relaxed pace, not in our typical
Bilaspur and Hamirpur) and then at frenetic style. There is a lot to enjoy
Hoshiarpur (our entry point to driving through these parts, so if and
Punjab, and also known as the land of when you get a chance, do not think
saints or the land of “choes”, that is, for even a minute — tank up, stock
seasonal rivulets). up, and get set go!

A P T O P12S0
T V S L `
IO
5
&
October 201
A U D ar
L E S Kishore Kum
ed
mend
B
Recom
ARA
tely
O
(1974)
d separa
a nahi
D
Ruk Jan
yarelal
9
E AP P LE
Imtihan (1971)
re saathi
W
1)
P
da (197 l chal me
be sol
Tera Vaa
n
Chal cha
a
Vaada 10
e saathi
ES ik
1
Dushman Haathi mer
W m
9)
Lax
dost (196
E
mein ae
not to
N
5) eeb
PHON
tum (196 Mere nas
E
2 Ajnabi 11
Ustad Hain Do Raaste
PHON
Hum Sab
UCCESS
material,
3) (197 2)
nchali (197 van hai
!
Ye jee
e
3 O Ma 12
n
r
S
Piya ka gha
i
li
z =
Mancha
a
in paagal
adget Mag I
(1974) pyar me
tional
a rahi hai Main tere Bandhan
Gaadi bul 13
(1978) Prem
(with Lata)
4
Dost
Promo
7)
orat (197
ng G
cha lte hai te khubso
Achha
to hum Milo Sajna Aate Jaa
Leadi
14
5
(with Lata ) (1970) Aan Anurodh
issue.
(with Lata ) (1970) mein (197
2)
’s
6S & S
Mere dil
d
ga ma
l
6 Sa re 15
er 2015
o
Abhinetri Daag
W
at (1964)
e
qayam
Th
hboob
Mere me
TOMO
7 bay
ptemb
Mr.X in Bom
ja tera
(1970)
h T3 Se
Soi
6S gPgeLr,U
8
Mastana
format
E
FRE CD
pression
sless com
Free wit
quality los
on high
Recorded
IO
AUDSIDE
R
388
CDIX 185
IN
ROW ’S
2015
faster !
ended
Recomm
Bi l
e powerfu
TECHN
or
and m
OLOG
Y TOD
AY I O
C
G .IN
.T3MA
TOBE
15 WWW
B ER 2 0
CTO
E 01 O
R
LUM
3 VO
2015 I
IS SU E 0
HOUT
ISSUE
VE WIT INDIA
03
AN’T LI
YOU C
101 GA
R
KIT FO
D
BE ST ng
GETS
AVE Playi g
MUST-H E
n
Runni ng
i
Watch g
YOU C
H TO MAK Cookin g
Drivin ng
TEC IFE Relaxi
AN’T L
YOUR L R! S M A RT TO
O LS
BETTE
CAN Y
N T DI
IVE W
PREVE T ERS?
DS
DIS A S
ITHOU
STA N
I COM T
O N
PLETE
OW
GUIDE T
N
O GAM
ING
CARS GAMING
TECH
E TO
E GUID
AN
W, NISS
ROM BM PER ET
ES F
MPL
2 / CO
V
IC DRI MPER-TO-BUM
ELECTR
WWW
NAULT
GO BU
GEAR S
AND RE
/ SAMSUNG
PLAY
.T 3 M A
OTO X
PLUS M
G .I N
Download T3 India app now!
W W W.T 3 M A G.IN
LONG TERM
Honda Mobilio i-DTEC
Sayonara Having spent a third of a year with us, the long-term

Honda Mobilio is now headed back whence it came.
We bid a sad goodbye to our trustworthy companion
Story: Aninda Sardar Photography: Sanjay Raikar

I
ALWAYS BELIEVED THAT THE HONDA Mobilio i-DTEC to the Car India office. I wasted no
Mobilio would be the answer to people’s search time in getting my hands on the keys and have been
for a practical, cost-effective, compact yet driving it since then, almost as if I owned the thing. And,
spacious and decently equipped people-mover. here’s the thing: I quite enjoyed the feel of ownership
This was even before I had driven the vehicle and that I got from the Honda Mobilio i-DTEC.
based solely on what I knew the vehicle would be The Mobilio is a good-looking vehicle; indeed Honda
like. Then I drove the vehicle in Nashik last year have worked well to give the vehicle proportions and
(along with a host of other auto journalists), which dimensions that make it look pleasing. Speaking of
further convinced me that the Mobilio would be a great dimensions, the Mobilio is a compact vehicle (for an
vehicle. But no amount of short sampling ever tells you MUV, that is). So driving it through traffic or parking it
what it’s going to be like to live with a product, day in in crowded spaces (especially aided by the reverse
day and day out. To answer just this particular aspect, parking camera) isn’t a problem at all. At the same time,
we, at Car India, have a long-term review section. Honda have managed to maximise in-cabin space so that
Needless to say, I was keen to put the Mobilio through at no point in time do you feel cramped inside the
the daily grind of a long-term review. vehicle; even with a full complement of seven passengers
A few months ago, my dormant desire to evaluate the on board. And here’s the party piece. With all three rows
Honda MUV’s long-term proposition came to fruition of seating in use, you still have enough cargo room for
when Honda were kind enough to send a top-of-the-line three cabin baggages in the boot.

LONG TERM
Honda Mobilio i-DTEC
The Mobilio is
compact on the
outside but
spacious on the
inside. Super.
And it’s also got
enough room for
three bags with
all three rows up.
Fab!
LOG BOOK
Total distance
covered:
4,096 km
Fuel Efficiency:
The Mobilio also boasts of a healthy list of equipment. up in multiple configurations in the interest of 17.9 km/l (overall)
There is a touchscreen infotainment system that is easy practicality. And there is a set of a-c vents for the rear
Maintenance Cost:
to use. There’s a sat-nav, Bluetooth connectivity and the passengers. Of course, not to forget the steering-mounted Nil
aforementioned reverse parking camera. The seats fold controls.

Under the bonnet of the Mobilio is Honda’s Earth
Dreams-derived 1.5-litre i-DTEC diesel engine. The ESSENTIALS HONDA Mobilio i-DTEC
1,498-cc engine incorporates a host of technologies to
FRUGAL SPACIOUS CREATURE COMFORTS
provide maximum efficiency without any loss in driving The Mobilio’s Earth Dreams Seven adults can sit quite From Bluetooth connectivity
pleasure, and on this count it delivers every ounce of its derived 1.5-litre i-DTEC comfortably with three cabin to reverse parking camera to
promise. At 3,600 revolutions the unit lets loose 100 diesel engine is not only baggages being touchscreen infotainment,
punchy but also economical. accommodated in the boot. the Mobilio gets it all.
galloping horses with 200 Nm of twist force coming in at
a low 1,750 RPM. Thanks to the engine’s linear power
delivery you will have an even spread of grunt throughout The only thing that I would have liked to have
the rev-range. There are several advantages to this. First, experienced is a service. But then again, having
you have the grunt when you want it. So overtaking is experienced Honda’s service in the past with another of
easy, as is pottering around town in top gear. Second, it’s their vehicles, it would be safe to say that Honda service
predictable and there is no sudden rush of power to catch would be on the ball and would sort out any or all issues
you unawares once the turbo has spooled up. Lastly, and quite promptly.
importantly, it’s efficient. We have clocked an average of At the end of the day, therefore, it’s an unhesitating
nearly 18 km/l over the one-third year that we have had thumbs-up for the Honda Mobilio i-DTEC. If you’ve got
the Mobilio with us. This includes dense traffic, highway one, or are planning to get one, you won’t regret the
runs, and photo shoots, etc. ownership experience.

ROAD TEST
Mahindra TUV300 T8
O R N G H
B TOUe
f y
m ay -line
ou s tag cial
o r thi mer ,
Somembe e com ne by
r o nda
Sardar
Photog
raphy:
Sanja
y Raikar
rem a ty ays g f the , r y: A

ni
m d 0
fro the case oUV 30 e Sto
m l
fro in the dra T licab
in p
but Mah tly ap
newperfec
it’s
ity
t h e qual
up g
t e p ped fact urin nd
e s u a
d r a hav V man nsist ent ud.
in S U co th
M a h t o f t h e i r i n e s a r e o u n d i n g t a ke s
c -l s ry
ak ing aspe ss. Shut a solid- , the sto kly,
are m
ey
e t h
proc shut wi howeve tter. Fra terior
r n
h e re th s e, e
door ce insid or the b he b est i hicle t o
n
w
h i c h is ll. i f fi c ult t o r a F
On turn. sts of t dra ve
e, w w e ’s d Aft e ther b oa ahin
Pu n h i c l e a s he car, it styling. y v ot e, a fur UV 300 any M ntre fasc k
ia
e t s m
D the v king at I like it lly cast s a in
the T ve seen black c and bla gonal
e c
E HA bout o r
Lo hethe n I fin 00 look s by a a o e a
E R
TH culation hat
a
de w whe V3 it i we h The pian the beig and hex ce.
E deci inutes, ew TU pired as ra is a . h ts
dat e ines wit t al inser h ambie o with
n
O
AT e W
F L much sp w SUV. m n
few ay. The or me, in Mahin then
s d b e i c d
e
b een ndra’s n ike, wha e, et
t n f w t com stery, m a fairly r d could en’t
i l ik it’s a oo boxy This ne ces. Bu l
upho to create ely flat ort but
an ar
Mah it look rior be l the e t k . r f a
littl tary tan f flat su o rathe ’m sure r l iv p
l d e
wou the int mages o way
f li o w I b eze ar e r elat t eral sup
ld i r a mi egation ing are t my nay, isn’t s
Seat or e of l
a
wo u . A f ew n d t h e i r y l
cong and st s and t o s. Wha ther e is
t t m
r a o
cete le also f media or
u
gn ic ye d a bi
c l s desi tive top many a ality, an V 300,
ve h i h e s o c i a u r n a l i s t b e r , e c s u
s u b j w i l l b e a g h , i s q n ew T U
t jo m
into minent 10 Septe ra e o u
t h e r ab l e , t h t w i t h t h e
pr o on in d t a
n e l s of inally, n, Mah new deba nying th
chan ortals. F eculatio the all- affair no d
e
p p d y
w e b i n g a l l s l a u n c h e l o w- k e , n e a r
h a y an
q u a s a h i n d r r e l a t i ve l t C h a k
M a
and 300 at a ’s plant
y
TUV compan
e
at th

ROAD TEST
Mahindra TUV300 T8
for the TUV 300 stands tall and the launch, back at the office, I had sat
floor of the vehicle can only be with the team and guessed if the ‘80’
accessed using the footboard. Even in the name related to the engine’s
for a tall person getting into the car power output. Turns out we were all
straight from the ground is a bit of a wrong; the peak power output of the
stretch. Moreover, the rear door, three-cylinder engine is 84 PS and
which allows access to the middle max torque is 230 Nm. Wait a second,
row, is narrow. Not something that did I just say three-cylinder? Well,
facilitates easy ingress or egress. That guess what, the engine really is a
said, none of these are deal breakers three-cylinder engine, albeit with a
for the Mahindra TUV 300. two-stage turbocharger. The peak
This newest kid off the Mahindra power kicks in at 3,750 RPM, but,
block is also fairly decently equipped. and far more importantly, the max
There’s a nice 2-DIN infotainment torque is available from a lowly 1,500
uncomfortable. In true SUV fashion, system that offers the convenience of revs to 2,250 RPM. Although the
you sit perched high and thus have a Bluetooth connectivity, USB and SUV is available with a choice of an
commanding view of the road ahead. aux-in, and there are steering- autoSHIFT automated manual
The surprise factor is the space on mounted controls. There are also transmission (AMT), we drove the
offer in the second row. Despite reverse parking sensors and plenty of one with the five-speed manual
being built to sub-four-metre stowage spaces. On the whole, the gearbox.
specifications, there’s plenty of space TUV 300 is a practical vehicle for the The first thing you notice is that
on offer here. The third row gets a garage, no doubt. But how exactly is it despite being a three-cylinder engine,
pair of jump seats that can be folded like to drive? Read on to find out. the Mahindra mHawk 80 feels fairly
out of the way. Boot space, at 384 Under the flat expanse of the TUV refined and balanced. The gear-lever
Best interior on
litres (which can be extended to 720), any Mahindra yet. 300’s bonnet hides Mahindra’s new travels quite a bit as you slot it into
isn’t too bad either. The only issue The TUV 300 feels
1,493-cc turbocharged diesel engine, first and the clutch feels a smidge
richer than other
here is access to this spacious cabin Mahindra vehicles christened mHawk 80. Prior to the heavy. But then this is supposed to

Mahindra TUV300 T8 (Rs 9.12 lakh, ex-Delhi) 111 Car Road Test 412
Overall Height 1839mm

Wheelbase 2680mm Width 1835mm (excluding mirrors)
Overall Length 3995mm Front Track NA, Rear Track NA
Kerb Weight NA
SPECIFICATIONS TEST RESULTS

ENGINE WHEELS & TYRES IN-GEAR SPEEDS (KM/H) BRAKING
Cylinders Three, in-line Wheel size 15” Gear Indicated True 80-0 km/h 2.55s, 28.40 m
Layout Front, transverse Tyre size 215/75 R15 1st 39 37.1 100-0 km/h 3.30s, 46.49 m
Type Turbocharged, DI 2nd 64 62.1
Fuel Diesel 3rd 99 97.1
BRAKES PERFORMANCE FACTORS
Capacity 1,493 cc 4th 130 126.4
Compression ratio 17.3:1 Front Discs 5th 140 136.4 Power:Weight (PS/tonne) NA
Valvegear DOHC, 4 valves/cyl Rear Drums
Specific Output (PS/litre) 56.26
Specific Torque (Nm/litre) 154.05
SUSPENSION TOP SPEED
ENGINE OUTPUT Front Double wishbone Claimed NA FUEL CONSUMPTION
Max power (PS) 84 Rear Rigid axle multi link Achieved 136.38 km/h
Power peak (rpm) 3750 City NA
Red line (rpm) 4500 Highway NA
ACCOMMODATION
Max torque (Nm) 230 Overall* NA
Seating 5+2 OVERTAKING ACCELERATION * Overall is 25% highway
Torque peak (rpm) 1500-2250
Head Room, F/R 1075/1030 Roll-ons and 75% city driving
Leg Room F (max/min) 1210/1010 Speed 3rd 4th 5th
Knee Room F (max/min) 840/635 40-60 3.33 3.75 7.46
TRANSMISSION Knee Room M (max/min) 850/640 TEST CONDITIONS
60-80 4.87 4.14 8.23
Five-speed, manual Knee Room R (max/min) 1060/450 80-100 4.40 5.81 9.30 Altitude 550m above MSL
1st gear NA Shoulder space (M) 1380 100-120 NA 9.61 15.32 Weather Warm, light wind, wet
2nd gear NA Shoulder space (R) 500
3rd gear NA Fuel tank 60 litres
4th gear NA Boot space 384-720 litres PERFORMANCE
5th gear NA
Reverse gear NA DRIVERS AIDS
Final drive NA 200
ABS, EBD, Reverse Parking Sensor
Drive wheels FWD
ACCELERATION (km/h)
180
CAR RATINGS 160
STEERING 140
Design & Style: 11211
Type Rack and pinion, Powertrain: 11211 120
electric power-assisted Performance: 11211
Lock to lock 3.25 turns Fuel Efficiency: NA 100 21.63s
Dynamic Ability: 11111 80 13.78s
Space: 11111
HIGHLIGHTS Creature Comforts:
Driver Appeal:
11111
11111
60 8.81s
40 4.40s
Space Safety: 11111
Convenience Interior: 11121 20 1.70s
TIME, SECONDS
Ride quality Suspension: 11111 0
Ride Quality: 11111 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28
Price
Handling: 11111
0-400m sprint: Terminal speed: 1-km sprint: Terminal speed:
Handling Steering: 11121
Braking: 11111 22.25 s 101.54 km/h 40.63 s 129.00 km/h
CAR INDIA’s test and performance data is the sole copyright of Next Gen Publishing Ltd. No part of the data or text can be used in any form for any purpose
or promotion or advertisement without the explicit written permission of the editor. (Performance testing by Aspi Bhathena)

ROAD TEST
Mahindra TUV300 T8
be a butch SUV; compact, but butch and what you get is a vehicle with The second row Hit the brakes as hard as you can
is surprisingly
none the less. So such things can be excellent ride quality. There’s virtually spacious in spite and you’ll realise (pleasantly so) that
dismissed as trivial. On the go, power nothing that filters in through to the of the TUV 300’s the old Mahindra trait of the rear
sub-4m body
delivery is linear and there is sufficient cabin and therefore the passengers. wanting to get ahead of the front
grunt on tap from the heart of this You sit cosseted inside the high cabin doesn’t exist in the TUV 300. It does
workhorse. Indeed, the workhorse and glide over all the irregularities of take a bit of time but the TUV 300
aspect became even more apparent the road beneath. Unfortunately, the comes to a halt without too much fuss.
when I realised that I was shifting up handling isn’t as sublime. In spite of The fact that it has ABS only helps. At
between 1,500 and 2,000 RPM, Mahindra’s efforts to increase the the end of a couple of days of driving
evidence of the vehicle’s driveability. rigidity of the TUV 300’s ladder frame around in Mahindra’s new TUV 300
However, and contrary to what you’d chassis, there’s quite a bit of body-roll. here are my three observations. First,
expect this butch SUV to be doing, It does hold its line on sweepers at late the TUV 300 is well-built and
the grunt from the engine is mostly double-digit speeds and very early finished. It’s certainly the best finished
good for city use. On highways, the triple-digit velocities but show the Mahindra I have seen. Second, it’s
mHawk unit doesn’t feel powerful TUV 300 a set of switchbacks and spacious and practical. Lastly, it offers
enough and overtaking can be a bit of you’ll find the going less than excellent ride comfort. The biggest
work as you need to downshift and confidence-inspiring. It’s not scary chink in the TUV 300’s armour is the
get into a lower gear each time. It’s but it doesn’t give you the confidence powertrain, which, though adequate
fine as long as you can build up speed to push harder. for the city, does not feel equal to the
and maintain it, but once the task on highways. On the whole, I
Headlamps get
momentum is lost (as can often cornering function, think Mahindra have a decent product
happen on Indian highways) it’s a which is probably a that should do well, even though there
first in this segment
task getting it back again. continue to be a few sharp edges that
The front suspension of the TUV need to be rounded off. Personally,
300 is a double wishbone affair while however, I wouldn’t mind a more
at the rear there’s a rigid axle multi- powerful engine, slightly better set of
link suspension. Add to this brakes and a bit more of confidence on
Mahindra’s Cushion Suspension tech the handling front.
Twin jump seats
fold out of the way to
reveal a cavernous
cargo bay
The new 1.5-litre

three-cylinder
engine is refined
and good for city
use but feels lacking
on highways

PAG ES COL LEC
TOR S’ ISS UE
Why would you subscribe

SPE CIA L 270 150.00
10 th AN NIV ERS
NIV ERS ARY Avventura `
UE  10 AN
th
S’ ISS h the FIA T
TOR s wit
PAG ES COL LEC CLA 10 Passe
to Car India?
SPE CIA L 270
10 th AN NIV ERS ARY
K km in 10 days with the
Challenge: 10
Anniversary

S’ ISS UE
ARY
5.00
` 12
4
eg II
Here are
SPE CIA L 270

ad: L
TED
LEC TOR
n Qu
TES
.in
Golde SS
-CRO
the
ww w. ca rin dia
ling KI S
Tack
PAG ES COL
0 UZU S
te i2 UTI
PAG ES COL
und
ai Eli MAR
T E ST E D
Really Good
C v Hy
i-DT
E ETA
HYUNDAI CR PEOPLE
L n270
Jazz
nda THE
AN SUV FOR
LEC TOR
: Ho
ia .i
OUT
AR Y SPEdCIA
S LVSE!
OT
SHO
LEXDU
a r in 2015
e 001 / August e
S’ ISS UE
Volume 11 / Issu with this issu
supplement
w .c
16-page AUDI
S
Reasons!
SIVE
ww
10 th AN NIV ERS
t LU
Silenret
EXC

SARY
10 th AN NIV ERS
IA DRI
IVERIAL!
ANN
sec S
EXCLUSIVE IN
SPEC
anmdbo’s 9r1id0-VP10

15
ly wheels
S’ ISS UE
er 20
temb
of eco-friend
ARY
02 / Sep
La hyb
sue 0
s a set
xun’ on
1 / Is
ry
SPE CIA L 270

me 1
e and lu
Asto ph
1 DELIVERED FREE TO YOUR DOOR
Volu
Magnificenc
COL LEC TOR
m
200-ebirthe
r n th
PAG ES COL
270 PAG ES
2 SAVE UP TO 36% ON COVER PRICE

-out lcan
Flat PS Vu
800
+
DRIVEN
LEC TOR
Y SPE CIA L
AUDstIesRt 8
S’ ISS UE
RD OUR
Fa
3 NEVER MISS AN ISSUE AGAIN
AR
production
10 th AN NIV ERS
hts?

O
NEW EAV FEATURES
heig Audi ever!
10 th AN NIV ERS
F vere
st
4 AND
to E TESTED
END
s
V sa
le
FIRST DRIVE
S
MOST IMPORTANT OF ALL,

Volvo V40 D3 t
s SU
S’ ISS UE
oss
ARY
val ’ o l e t M ar ut i S- Cr Audi RS 6 Av
an
O D ri0s
e E re lerio DDiS
A SERIOUSLY GOOD QUALITY MAGAZINE...
V1b go As pi
SPE CIA L 270

u T p010 a
e Bl st rdoFi
C
TESzTo 4 0 gends coBooFo i ne 1 GT3 RS Maruti Ce
COL LEC TOR
th E
n cing S Le t i z
e che 91 ter GTS
it ta
ke es -B
eRa E Le
RIyV of
E mprs
tansg 95 CoPo Porsche Boxs
Can Mer
ced Hi
ST stDor rd Musxu t h 5 M as er at i Ghibli S Q4 BIANCHI
IR Fo a Quad
bG- r e R.I.P. JU S
LE
DelingFIth
F Tack AT A #JB17:
PAG ES COL LEC
THREE EASY WAYS TO SUBSCRIBE

NS WIN
TOR S’ ISS UE
270 PAG ES
r CR S 17 LE MA
10 th AN NIV ERS
TH

Tha CoupéIAL POSTER: PORSCHE’

SPE CIA L 270 ARY
a
PAG ES COL LEC
i n r
d PUBLSISHIN6G3 SPEC
S’ ISS UE TOR
h
10 th AN NIV ERS
M a s- A M G

SPE CIA L ARY
de
M erce e Orange 021
C
CMYK Panton
1 2 3
ISHING
PUBL
Online Call Post

YK
CM
Next Gen Publishing Ltd., Trade World,

C-Wing, 2nd Floor, Kamala Mills
Visit at Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg,
http://secure.nextgenpublishing.in/ +91 22 4352 5252 Lower Parel (W), Mumbai 400013, India.
TO SUBSCRIBE
Pay ` 2,880 for 3 years subscription Pay ` 1100 for 1 year subscription
and save ` 1620 on the cover price and save ` 400 on the cover price
International rate - for 1 year subscription ` 7,500 or $ 125 by air mail post
YOUR DETAILS (ALL DETAILS IN CAPITAL LETTERS)
Name: Mr/Ms ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Occupation ..................................................................................................................................................................... Date of birth ........................................................................
Address ..............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
City ........................................................................ State ................................................................................................ Pincode ................................................................................
Email ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Phone (Off) ........................................................................... Mobile ............................................................................ Phone (Off) ..........................................................................

Kindly draw the Cheque/DD/PO in favor of NEXT GEN PUBLISHING LTD. (Please add Rs. 20/- extra for outstation cheque)
Please Find enclosed Cheque/DD no. ............................................................................................................................................................ Dated ..........................................................
Bank ................................................................................................................................................................................................................. Branch ........................................................
Or please charge my credit card Visa MasterCard Card No. ......................................................................................................... Card expiry date ........................................
CAR INDIA OCTOBER 2015
Name (as appears on card) ............................................................................................................ Date...................................................... Signature .....................................................
Please complete the order form and mail it to us at Next Gen Publishing Ltd., 2nd Floor, C Wing, Trade World, Kamala Mills Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg,
Lower Parel (W). Mumbai 400013. You can also fax the order for credit card purchases to +91 22 2495 5394
For clarifications, email: subscriptions@nextgenpublishing.net or call +91 22 4352 5252
TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Please allow 4-5 weeks for processing of your subscription. Copies will be sent by ordinary post only. Next Gen Publishing will not be responsible for postal delay, transit loses
or mutilation of copies. No cancellation of subscriptions will be entertained after commencement of subscription. Please mention your name and address on the reverse of your DD/Cheque. All disputes are
subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of courts in Mumbai only.
E
ROAD TEST
BMW X6 xDrive 40d
Z
O F
R
I
T T E
A
A M
S
BMW have launched the latest
generation F16 X6 in India. It’s
an all-new car, now larger and
more powerful, but is still
aimed at a buyer who wants a
lot of sport activity in a coupé.
What’s it like to live with? We
dig deeper
Story: Jim Gorde


URGERS? OR PIZZA? IF YOU’RE A exactly a whole portion of either. It works, though.
foodie and have a circle of friends equally BMW introduced the X6 ‘Sports Activity Coupé’ back
enthusiastic about what are the options to in 2008 as a ‘09 model. It was simply one of those love-it-
engorge on, that’s a common dilemma. Not or-hate-it models and while some questioned its
long ago, a leading burger chain came up capability and practicality, others admired its size,
with the ‘pizza burger’. A burger the size of a boldness and road presence; the latter of which it
large pizza, cut into triangular slices like one possessed in volumes. It even led to competition jumping
too. It had over 2,500 calories and more than to the drawing board. Overseas, the Acura ZDX and, only
the daily recommended intake of several essential recently, the Mercedes GLE Coupé have been the only
nutrients. True. It solved the problem. You get to hold other similar offerings. Furthermore, it spawned a smaller
your burger like a pizza and enjoy the gorge session. The sibling in the X4. So, this, the second-generation car,
cheese holds it all together, so it doesn’t matter that it isn’t codenamed the F16 (with no relation to the fighter jet),

ROAD TEST
BMW X6 xDrive 40d
THE X6 PACKS MORE THAN DECENT

PERFORMANCE AND SURPRISES
WITH ITS QUICKNESS
takes the game forward for this unique offering from the Six cylinders in
line, primed and
Bavarian giant. ready, deliver seven
What’s new? Well, look at that face. All that aggression more horses than
the previous car
which began with the F30 3 Series and the gorgeous F82
M4 carried over to the X5, making it look more in sync
with the times. Like its more conventional SUV sibling,
the new X6 gains the wide LED-loaded headlamps, a
wider and meaner front grille, and even grows a bit all
round, gaining a few precious millimetres that liberate
more room inside. Whatever the silhouette, sloping roof
and high rear end, you simply can’t deny that it certainly
makes its presence felt.
On the outside, the X6 is huge. It’s 30 millimetres
longer than the first-gen E71 model, and a smidgen wider
Rear seats are
and taller, too. The big wheels and high ground clearance comfy, leg room is
add to the dominating stance it bears. Adding to that are good, but head
the mixed 275/40 and 315/35 20-inch rubber, front and room is not meant
for full-size adults,
rear respectively. The styling details, especially the ‘M’ at least not the
badging, make it quite exciting to look at. It’s also high really tall kinds; no
skimping out on
off the ground, at 212 mm, and offers decent approach and equipment though
departure angles of 25° and 22.5° respectively. The
breakover angle is 20°, but that’s because of the long
2,933-mm wheelbase. Not to worry, though, because we
headed into some untamed hills to see just how much of
the rough it could really handle.
While we were heading to our chosen location, one
thing was clear: the X6’s performance is not to be taken
lightly. Not only is it high off the ground, it also packs an
updated powertrain. The signature 3.0-litre straight-six
TwinPower Turbo diesel engine now puts out 313 PS and
630 Nm. That’s over 200 Nm per litre of displacement!
The transmission is an updated ZF 8HP eight-speed
automatic unit, optimised for efficiency and linear power
delivery, paired to the xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive

system. Together, they work wonders for this 2.2-tonne
Bavarian behemoth.
The X6 packs more than decent performance and it
surprises with its quickness. True, the weight can be felt
in most actions, but it’s the way the car’s systems dismiss
it like an insignificant second thought that truly
astonishes. It blasts to 100 km/h from standstill in just 6.7
seconds and hits a claimed 240 km/h top whack. It can
handle high speeds with ease and even at 130 km/h there
is so much more acceleration on tap. Even corners are
handled well with only a hint of body-roll creeping in,
and that too only in tight bends. It uses steel discs good
enough to bring this 2,180-kg SAC to a halt from 100
km/h in just 2.99 seconds. All, of course, without the
slightest bit of drama. That’s the encouraging bit. It lets
you have fun, and that’s important.
What’s more important is how it feels. The cabin is
huge and airy, at least up front, and the seats are
phenomenally comfortable. The headrest uses a hard
casing with plush leather where the back of your head
rests on it. Very appreciated. The multi-way adjustable
seats, including the extended thigh support, make for not
just ergonomic, but relaxed seating — something which
lets you enjoy driving for hours on end. Cabin is very The head-up display (HUD) also shows the track list if
well put-together
The conveniences match the comfort, and among the and feels modern; you happen to have music playing. There’s also a 20-GB
biggest boons is the 360° camera with an option to switch vehicle functions hard drive, to store your favourite tunes, and a high-
at your fingertips
to just one angle if required. Night Vision is another very quality surround-sound audio system.
useful feature, especially when driving in poorly Back to the drive. The highway was done with and the
illuminated areas after dark. Finally, the inclusion of six X6 was now facing a 25° incline, complete with gravel,
air-vents in the dash allows for much better cooling. The wet grass and potholes. A little slip at first, but then the
dash itself and the trim surround are rather unique. The climb began; faultlessly, I may add. Small rocks the size
wood trim on the doors is not flat and buffed, it has a 3D of large burgers lay strewn all over the surface and while
feel, and, together with the aluminium accents, makes for they weren’t sharp, they were slippery enough to cause
a very elegant layout. The iDrive controller and wide injury if one happened to slip while on foot. Moving
centre screen make using the infotainment system easy. around, exploring the hill-side, climbing more inclines
Wardrobe partner

ROAD TEST
BMW X6 xDrive 40d
BMW X6 xDrive 40d M Sport (Rs 1.15 crore, ex-Delhi) 11111 Car Road Test 413

Ground Clearance 212mm

Overall Length 4909mm Front Track 1640mm, Rear Track 1706mm
Kerb Weight 2180 kg

Cylinders Six, in-line Wheel size 20” Indicated True 80-0 km/h 2.72s, 27.58 m
Layout Front, longitudinal Tyre size 275/40 ZR20 (F) / 20 18.6 100-0 km/h 2.99s, 41.57 m
Type Twin-turbocharged, DI 315/35 ZR20 (R) 40 38.5
Fuel Diesel 60 57.9
Bore x stroke 84.0 x 90.0 mm BRAKES 80 77.5 PERFORMANCE FACTORS
Capacity 2,993 cc Front Ventilated discs 100 96.8 Power:Weight (PS/tonne) 143.58
Compression ratio 16.5:1 Rear Ventilated discs 120 116.5 Specific Output (PS/litre) 104.58
Valvegear DOHC, 4 valves/cyl Specific Torque (Nm/litre) 210.49
SUSPENSION
ENGINE OUTPUT Front Double wishbone with coil springs, TOP SPEED
FUEL CONSUMPTION
Max power (PS) 313 active dampers, and stabiliser bar Claimed 240 km/h
Power peak (rpm) 4400 Rear Multilink, with air springs, City 7.5
Achieved 223.09 km/h
Red line (rpm) 5000 active dampers, and stabiliser bar Highway 10.0
Max torque (Nm) 630 Overall* 8.13
Torque peak (rpm) 1500-2500 ACCOMMODATION * Overall is 25% highway
OVERTAKING ACCELERATION and 75% city driving
Seating 5
TRANSMISSION Head Room, F/R 970/920 Roll-ons
Leg Room F (max/min) 1120/890 40-60 1.28
Eight-speed, automatic
60-80 1.71
TEST CONDITIONS
Knee Room F (max/min) 840/610
1st gear 4.714 Altitude 550m above MSL
Knee Room R (max/min) 950/700 80-100 2.09
2nd gear 3.143 Weather Warm, light wind, mildly wet
Shoulder space 1440 100-120 2.72
3rd gear 2.105
Fuel tank 85 litres
4th gear 1.667
5th gear
6th gear
1.285
1.000
Boot space 550 litres
PERFORMANCE
7th gear 0.839
DRIVERS AIDS
8th gear 0.667 ABS, EBD, DSC, DTC, HUD, 360° Camera,
200
Reverse gear 3.317 Night Vision, Pedestrian Alert System
ACCELERATION (km/h)
Final drive 3.154 180 20.65s

Drive wheels AWD
CAR RATINGS 160 15.89s
STEERING Design & Style: 1111 140 12.12s
Powertrain: 11111
Type Rack and pinion, 120 9.20s
Performance: 11111
electro-mechanical power-assisted
Fuel Efficiency: 1111 100 6.74s
Lock to lock 3.0 turns
Space: 1112
Driver Appeal:
11111
11111
60 3.25s
40 1.94s
Road presence Safety: 11111
Exclusivity Interior: 11111 20 0.94s
TIME, SECONDS
Front seat comfort Suspension: 11111 0
Ride Quality: 11112 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28
Equipment
Handling: 11112
Feels bulky Steering: 11111 0-400m sprint: Terminal speed: 1-km sprint: Terminal speed:
or promotion or advertisement without the explicit written permission of the editor. (Performance testing by Jim Gorde)

covered in rain-soaked grass had the xDrive system on its Interior layout
feet, but apart from a few split-second slips, there was
and quality are
impeccable; 3D BMW X6 M
always traction to be found. I believe the fat rubber needs finish on the wood
is unique indeed
to be thanked there too.
I have to be honest. I didn’t really think I would like
the X6. I did take the last-gen model for a spin only a Counter-terrorist
spec Night Vision is
couple of months ago, but spending time with it over ideal for driving in
varied terrain puts things in perspective. It isn’t exactly an unfamiliar areas
after dark
agile sports car, but, as the ‘M Sport’ badge – which is
earned – tells you, it is dynamically gifted. It’s got a
decent 4x4 driveline, too, and it can handle quite a bit of
rough terrain, even dealing with inclines. Even on the fuel
efficiency front, it manages up to 10 km/litre on the
NEED A MORE POWERFUL ALTERNATIVE THAT’S
highway. With just over eight km to the litre overall, a
not just M badges and bits, but also a genuine M
driving range of 700 km is not bad at all. The other
heart as well? The X6 M is also expected to make its
important number is Rs 1.15 crore. That’s the ex- way here complete with a TwinPower Turbo V8 motor
showroom asking price for the diesel M Sport version. If making 575 PS and 750 Nm! Price? Something upwards
you want to be different and have exclusivity at the top of of Rs 1.5 crore for sure.
your list, go right ahead and order one of these.

ROAD TEST
Toyota Fortuner 4x4 AT
AU T
O
TRA MATI
NSIT C
ION
F
ROM FLAT TARMAC TO
mud tracks and everything else
besides, the Toyota Fortuner has
always held the reputation for being a
go-anywhere sport utility vehicle
(SUV) that allows its passengers a
taste of luxury too. While these
attributes made the car quite popular
across the country, there was a
constant murmur of complaint from
Fortuner enthusiasts regarding the
fact that the car’s luxury leanings didn’t extended to
having a 4x4 automatic in its bouquet of variants. Toyota
took steps to address that, giving us this, the all-wheel-
drive (AWD) auto variant at long last.
Not much has changed on the exterior of this new
Fortuner. It still takes the aggression-over-artistic styling
cues identical to its other, more dated variants. The only
differences that you’ll spot are a spot of chrome
surrounding the fog-lamps and smoked lamps in the head
and tail, apart from the new alloys that look like they’re
painted in the 50th shade of grey, and the new grey-
bronze colour scheme to go with it.
Climb into this SUV, quite literally, and you’ll notice its
new blacked out interior and a shiny new touchscreen
infotainment system with in-built sat-nav. The cabin is
roomy as ever, and the driver’s perch affords you a
commanding, royal view of the undulating road ahead of
you. On the safety front, you have dual front airbags now
as standard.
Under its bonnet the Fortuner still retains the same
3.0-litre D-4D turbo-diesel mill producing 171 PS at 3,600
revs and now, with the auto-box, churns out 360 Nm of
torque between 1,400 and 3,200 RPM. Only now this
engine is wedded to a five-speed automatic transmission.
The big question is, how does it feel to drive? The big
answer also happens to be a long one.
First off, since the ’box is a conventional torque-
converter rather than a new-fangled twin-clutch direct-
shift, it isn’t very quick or very efficient. Furthermore, it
adds 30 kilos to the kerb weight as compared to its manual
counterpart, further slowing down the proceedings.
Open it up on the highway, and you’ll soon realise that
r o u nd while it isn’t the fastest SUV out there, the Fortuner isn’t
b een a ly, it too laboured either – posting an equable 12.22-second
r ha s ent tic
run from 0 to 100 km/h. The gearbox slots in easily and
ne re c firmly, and you can choose to keep the car slotted in the
Fo rtu t, until utoma fourth, third, or second, allowing you to harness all the
o yota w bu x4 a nk of torque for those proper off-road jaunts. The car also
T o a 4
The while n d with t we thi
boasts of cruise control for those long highway drives.
The ride quality on this Fortuner is the same as its
for a ’t offere e’s wha ortuner predecessor’s – slightly on the softer side, allowing you to
n r F
was line. He edalled
soak up the bumps without bother, but becoming less
steady while switching direction at high speed. The heavy
e
driv ew bi-p t Suchde steering doesn’t help in this regard either, although it is
h is n H arke uerque quite responsive in terms of feedback. There is also the

t y:
Stor l Albuq
prominent body-roll to contend with, which, to be fair,
: Romme isn’t unexpected judging by the Fortuner’s relatively
aphy
ample proportions. Braking is aided by an ABS, EBD,
togr and brake assist, with a ventilated disc set-up up front,
Pho and rather dated drums at the rear. Despite all that
technology, the brakes aren’t much more than adequate.
They certainly won’t infuse you with the kind of

ROAD TEST
Toyota Fortuner 4x4 AT
Swank interior confidence that otherwise encourages you to attempt top-

dressed in
all-black speed runs. This isn’t the kind of car that will win you any
track-days then, but where it does shine is when you stray
off the beaten path.
I’ve got some
new shoes on! The Take the Fortuner off road if you really want to see it
Fortuner gets shine. The 221 mm of ground clearance, locking-diff and
new wheels
an option to drop it into low range means off-roading is a
blast, and with the addition of the autobox the whole
Auto ’box the process is that much easier, not to mention that much
jewel in this
4x4’s crown more fun too. We took the car on all kinds of terrain too
– wet and dry mud, sand, and gravel – and the car didn’t
misbehave or have to be winched out at any time.
This Fortuner costs a steep Rs 30.42 lakh (OTR, Pune).
And when compared to its more modern rivals, even in
this new 4x4 automatic avatar is pretty old-school. It is,
however, a big, bad, roomy, off-road beast, and isn’t all
that exactly what you want from a proper SUV?
TAKE THE FORTUNER OFF ROAD

IF YOU REALLY WANT
TO SEE IT SHINE

Toyota Fortuner 3.0 4x4 AT (Rs 32.33 lakh, OTR Pune) 1111 Car Road Test 414


Overall Length4705mm Front Track 1540mm, Rear Track 1540mm
Kerb Weight 2000 kg

Cylinders Four, in-line Wheel size 17” Indicated True 80-0 km/h 2.33s, 25.28 m
Layout Front, transverse Tyre size 265/65 R17 20 18.5 100-0 km/h 2.94s, 41.07 m
Type Turbocharged, DI 40 37.3
Fuel Diesel 60 55.2
Capacity 2,982 cc BRAKES 80 76.1 PERFORMANCE FACTORS
Compression ratio 17.9:1 Front Ventilated discs 100 95.2 Power:Weight (PS/tonne) 85.50
Valvegear DOHC, 4 valves/cyl Rear Drums 120 114.9 Specific Output (PS/litre) 57.34
Specific Torque (Nm/litre) 120.72
SUSPENSION
ENGINE OUTPUT TOP SPEED
Front Double wishbone FUEL CONSUMPTION
Max power (PS) 171 Claimed NA
Rear 4-link with lateral rod
Power peak (rpm) 3600 City 7.5
Achieved 177.86 km/h
Red line (rpm) 4400 Highway 9.0
Max torque (Nm) 360 ACCOMMODATION Overall* 7.88
Torque peak (rpm) 1400-3200 * Overall is 25% highway
Seating 7
OVERTAKING ACCELERATION and 75% city driving
Head Room, F/R 1000/950
Leg Room F (max/min) 1190/930 Roll-ons
TRANSMISSION Knee Room F (max/min) 860/620 40-60 2.10
60-80 2.96 TEST CONDITIONS
Five-speed, automatic Knee Room R (max/min) 920/690
Shoulder space 1150 80-100 3.83 Altitude 550m above MSL
1st gear NA
Fuel tank 80 litres 100-120 5.19 Weather Warm, light wind, wet
2nd gear NA
3rd gear NA Boot space 200-600 litres
4th gear
5th gear
NA
NA
PERFORMANCE
DRIVERS AIDS
6th gear NA
Reverse gear NA ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, VSC,
Shift-lock, Reverse Camera 200
Final drive NA
ACCELERATION (km/h)
Drive wheels AWD 180

CAR RATINGS 160
STEERING Design & Style: 11111 140

Powertrain: 11112 26.97s
power-assisted Performance: 11111
Lock to lock 3.7 turns Fuel Efficiency: 11111 100 12.22s
Space: 11111
Driver Appeal:
11111
11111
60 4.86s
40 2.57s
Space Safety: 11111
Convenience Interior: 11111 20 0.99s
TIME, SECONDS
Offroad ability Suspension: 11111 0
Ride Quality: 11111 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28
Size & presence
Handling: 11121
0-400m sprint: Terminal speed: 1-km sprint: Terminal speed:
Brake feel Steering: 11111
or promotion or advertisement without the explicit written permission of the editor. (Performance testing by Jim Gorde)

ROAD TEST
Audi A6 35 TDI Matrix
THE TECH

NOCRAT Story: Aninda Sardar
You would be wrong to think that the new Audi A6 Matrix is just another cosmetic
upgrade. There are plenty of technology updates, along with the cosmetic ones, to
make this car cutting-edge. We take the new car for a road test

ROAD TEST
M
Y FIRST MEMORY OF THE infotainment platform; Audi’s signature MMI Touch is
word ‘Audi’ goes back to the days when a also available as part of this system. All of these combine
certain cricketer by the name of Ravi to make the Audi A6 Matrix even more luxurious than it
Shastri (you may have heard of him) was was before.
presented with an Audi. With no internet, What really puts a smile on your face, however, remains
or computers for that matter, I had tried to hidden under that lithe-looking bonnet, for in there Audi
imagine what this unfamiliar sounding car have plonked in an uprated 2.0-litre TDI diesel unit now
would be like. The only thing I hadn’t had with seven per cent more power and which Audi claim is
to imagine were the four interlocked rings five per cent more fuel-efficient. Indeed, the peak power
on the grille of the car. Cut to September of 2015 and I find rating of this new engine is 190 PS, which is available to
myself staring once again at those four rings interlaced your right foot between 3,800 and 4,200 revolutions per
through each other. Moving back a couple of steps I
The two-litre
realise that the car, an A6, is familiar too and yet not quite. turbo diesel unit is
Behold the new Audi A6 35 TDI Matrix, which the a peach. It’s
refined, efficient
German company launched in grand style via a rather and powerful.
unconventional video press release. What more could
As you continue to stare at the car, you’ll notice several you want?
changes. For starters, the single-piece grille is wider and
its six corners appear a little more striking than before.
The bumper too is a re-designed unit. But far more
important, the A6 now benefits from Audi’s Matrix LED
headlamp technology (something we first saw on the larger
and more luxurious A8).
On the inside, the A6’s cabin has been upgraded even
further with new wood inserts. There’s also a new nougat
brown colour for the car’s high-quality Milano leather
seats. Four-zone climate control is standard fitment. The
A6 also gets Audi’s new next-generation modular
IT’S THE WAY IN WHICH THIS LUXURY SEDAN BUILDS

SPEED THAT IS REALLY REMARKABLE. WE CLOCKED
A GENUINE 211-PLUS KM/H ON OUR TEST-RUN
BEFORE RUNNING OUT OF ROAD

Whats New?
Audi MMI
Wood inserts
minute. Maximum twist force on offer is a very healthy Seven-speed S Tronic

transmission
400 Nm that kicks in as low as 1,750 turns and stays with
you all the way through to 3,000 RPM, making for a very
The central
flat torque curve — an indication of the car’s driveability. armrest has a
Transmission to the front wheels is taken care of via a nice slot for the
seven-speed S Tronic twin-clutch gearbox. On the 0-100 remote control to
the Audi MMI
km/h acceleration run the car gets off the line a little
slower than you’d expect, but once the wheels are rolling,
it picks up speed ferociously and breaches the 100 km/h
mark in less than 10 seconds. The reason why this happens
is because Audi’s electronics restrict engine revs from
building beyond a point when you try to hit the throttle
with the brakes still engaged.
Numbers, however, tell only half the story. It’s the way
in which this luxury sedan builds speed that is really
remarkable. We clocked a genuine 211-plus km/h on our
test-run before running out of road, and even then the car
felt as if it could log on about 10 more km/h. The other Plenty of room
remarkable bit is the car’s power delivery: it is like a at the rear of the
A6 for two adults,
straight line drawn with a ruler. There’s power available but it’s only good
at every part of the rev-range to propel this 1,830-kg for four. Best to
take on a kid as
machine ahead with an intent that could prove to be a the fifth passenger
serious problem for many a “sporty” car. What must be
mentioned is that the S Tronic transmission also does a
fine job of keeping pace with the rest of the powertrain
and at no point in time do you wish for a quicker shifting
’box.
In true Audi spirit, the A6 is a brilliant handler.
Corners, switchbacks, sweepers, straights — none of it is
a problem for this car. Even at our very high testing
speeds the car held its line as if it was on rails. There’s
excellent feedback from the steering, which feels light at
low and moderate speeds but weighs up nicely as the

ROAD TEST
velocities rise. There’s just so much confidence this car A massive boot
aided by a low
gives you when you see that bend ahead that even an loading lip means
average driver feels like an expert. The air suspension also the A6 can take
quite a bit of cargo
works its magic on the surface beneath the 245/45 R18
tyres. Ruts, patchwork, potholes and the like are kept well
away from the passenger who sit ensconced in the luxury
of the car’s spacious and rather silent cabin. It’s only the
deepest of potholes that catch it out really.
Speaking of road irregularities, an aspect that needs to
be mentioned here is ground clearance. Indian roads,
thanks to the wonderful maintenance job done by the
authorities, require most cars to run a bit of extra ground
clearance. You know, keep a bit of clearance in hand for
those rainy days (applied both metaphorically as well as
literally). With many a luxury car, built as they are to
European specifications, the issue of sufficient ground
A thumbs up to
clearance becomes a tricky one and more than once have Audi’s choice of
we experienced a car’s underbody scraping on a tyre profile.
Low enough to
particularly high bump irrespective of the carefully be stylish yet
executed evasive manoeuvre by the driver. I’m happy to high enough to
say that we faced none of this with the A6. There is be practical for
Indian roads
indeed sufficient clearance for our Indian roads in this
German luxury sedan.
The car was launched at Rs 49.5 lakh, ex-showroom,
and at that price the Audi A6 is not over-priced compared
to its competitors. The thing is, at that price, it isn’t
highly competitively priced either; pricing is actually par
for the course. As a result the A6 doesn’t become the
automatic or obvious choice but is one more option in
that segment. However, as an option, it’s a brilliant one.
Something that’s definitely worth your money.
AUDI MATRIX
LED HEADLIGHT
TECHNOLOGY
THE AUDI A6 MATRIX, AS ITS NAME
implies, gets the German company’s
signature all-LED headlamp
technology that we first saw in the
larger A8. The system uses bundles
of 19 light-emitting diodes (LED)
combined with four reflectors in
each headlamp. The result is
brilliant illumination. Surprisingly,
these state-of-the-art headlamps
remain on high beam permanently
but still do not dazzle the drivers of
oncoming vehicles. How? By
switching off individual LED
clusters. Clever little technological
wizardry, isn’t it?

Audi A6 35 TDI Matrix (Rs 1.35 crore, ex-Delhi) 11111 Car Road Test 415

Ground Clearance NA
Width 1874mm (excluding mirrors)
Wheelbase 2912mm
Front Track 1627mm, Rear Track 1618mm
Overall Length 4933mm Kerb Weight 1830 kg

Cylinders Four, inline Wheel size 18” Indicated True 80-0 km/h 2.47s, 24.81 m
Layout Front, longitudinal Tyre size 245/45 ZR18 20 19.7 100-0 km/h 3.52s, 41.22 m
Type Turbocharged, DI 40 38.7
Fuel Diesel BRAKES 60 57.9
Bore x stroke 81.0 x 95.5 mm 80 76.2 PERFORMANCE FACTORS
Front Ventilated discs 100 95.9
Capacity 1,968 cc Power:Weight (PS/tonne) 103.82
Rear Solid discs 120 114.8
Compression ratio 15.5:1 Specific Output (PS/litre) 96.54
Valvegear DOHC, 4 valves/cyl Specific Torque (Nm/litre) 203.25
SUSPENSION
Front Five-link, double wishbone
ENGINE OUTPUT TOP SPEED
with anti-roll bar, adaptive air suspension FUEL CONSUMPTION
Max power (PS) 190 Rear Trapezoidal-link, with wishbone Claimed 226 km/h
City 12.5
Power peak (rpm) 3800-4200 and anti-roll bar, adaptive air suspension Achieved 211.58 km/h
Highway 18.0
Red line (rpm) 5000
Overall* 13.88
Max torque (Nm) 400
ACCOMMODATION * Overall is 25% highway
Torque peak (rpm) 1750-3000
Seating 5 OVERTAKING ACCELERATION and 75% city driving
Head Room, F/R 1040/960 Roll-ons
TRANSMISSION Leg Room F (max/min) 1120/975 40-60 1.93
Knee Room F (max/min) 920/670 60-80 2.42 TEST CONDITIONS
Seven-speed, twin-clutch, automatic
1st gear 3.188 Knee Room R (max/min) 825/590 80-100 2.97 Altitude 550 m above MSL
2nd gear 2.190 Shoulder space 1425 100-120 3.44 Weather Warm, windy, very wet
3rd gear 1.517 Fuel tank 65 litres
4th gear
5th gear
1.057
0.738
Boot space 530 litres
PERFORMANCE
6th gear 0.508 DRIVERS AIDS
7th gear 0.386
ABS, EBD, ESC, Brake Assist, 360° camera
ACCELERATION (km/h)
Reverse gear 2.750 200

Final drive 4.048 180
Drive wheels FWD
CAR RATINGS 160
STEERING Design & Style: 11111 140 18.36s

Powertrain: 11111
Performance: 11111
electro-mechanical
Lock to lock 2.25 turns
Space: 11111
Driver Appeal:
11111
11111
60 4.37s
40 2.75s
Driver appeal Safety: 11111
Handling Interior: 11111 20 1.44s
TIME, SECONDS
Ride quality Suspension: 11111 0
Ride Quality: 11111 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28
Build quality
Handling: 11111
Technology 0-400m sprint: Terminal speed: 1-km sprint: Terminal speed:
Steering: 11111
Safety 17.07 s 134.4 km/h 24.26 s 160.0 km/h
Braking: 11111
or promotion or advertisement without the explicit written permission of the editor. (Performance testing by Aninda Sardar)

SHOOTOUT
Ford Figo Aspire TDCi v Rivals
FO R
Sto
100/CAR INDIA /October 2015

r y: Aninda Sardar Pho
tography: San
AS
jay Raikar
P Iwww.carindia.in
offe r e v erything from
an w an ts the car to sp ire out in the
e s ed F igo A
four-metr new Ford
E
r a s ub - ith th e Zir e in a bid
R
m er fo y. So w u z uk i D
I
custo onom e Maruti S
The average ing dynamics to fuel ec t h pirations
S
A m az e an d a zin g a s
da m
DE G
on ch a
looks to driv d to pit it against the H stomers’ desire for su
market, we
decide
h re e ca n m eet the cu
d out w hich of the t
to fin
A
AM NSZ I N
IRA T I O
SHOOTOUT
I
N MY 11TH STANDARD AT SCHOOL I MADE When Honda launched the Amaze, we all thought,
a monumental error in choosing economics as one of “Ah, here’s something that can break Maruti’s choke hold
my elective subjects. Although I was hopeless at it on the segment.” Straight up, the Amaze looked better
(well, mostly), I did learn one thing on the first day with cleaner lines and with a boot that didn’t look like it
itself – human desires are limitless. That, in fact, had been slapped on as an afterthought. Like the DZire,
was lesson number one of our economics class. What I the Amaze offered the buyer all the benefits of being
learned on that day, however, can be very aptly applied to compact but was far roomier. Although the DZire offers
the uniquely Indian sub-four-metre sedan segment. The more headroom and shoulder-room, the Amaze has much
average customer who buys into this category of vehicles better leg- and knee-room. At 400 litres, the Amaze also
wants his car to look good, feel premium, be loaded with has the bigger boot. Thanks to its huge glass area, the feel
gadgets, be powerful, drive well and also be fuel-efficient. of roominess too is higher in the Amaze. Then there’s the
In short, he (or she) wants it all, but, and that’s a big but, equipment. While the DZire is the only one here to boast
at a price. Manufacturers with products in this segment, of a 12V power outlet for rear passengers and automatic
therefore, have their task cut out. climate control, the Honda is the only one with a
The biggest and most well-established player in this touchscreen and a sat-nav.
hotly contested part of the Indian automobile market is Power comes from Honda’s Earth Dreams derived
Maruti Suzuki. Their DZire (based on the Swift hatch) 1.5-litre i-DTEC diesel engine that puts out 100 PS and
has been a hot-seller for years and continues to bring in 200 Nm of torque. It’s a torquey unit that makes the car
good volumes for India’s largest passenger car-makers. feel even peppier than the DZire; indeed the Honda
The Honda Amaze (based on the Brio hatchback) is a sedan posts a 0-100 km/h time of 13.14 seconds, shaving
relative newcomer but then it’s a good product overall over a second off the DZire’s 14.24 seconds. On the fuel
and, with the backing of the Honda badge, the car has economy front, too, the Amaze beats the DZire with an
been accepted quite well by the demanding Indian. The overall economy of 21.5 km/l. The Amaze also proves its
latest entrant into the fray, however, comes from the all- superiority in the handling department, returning a surer
American house of Ford in the form of the Figo Aspire. In feel, resulting in enhanced driver confidence. On the ride
the natural progression of things, we, at Car India, quality front, the two are not separated by miles but the
decided to clear the consumers’ confusion by pitting the Honda does have a yard or two over the Maruti over
three, in their diesel guises, against one another to find broken Indian roads. So, all other things remaining equal,
out which of these offers the biggest bang for your buck. the score is 1-0 in favour of the Honda Amaze.
As mentioned earlier, the DZire is the oldest member of At this stage of things arrives the new Blue Oval
this crew and had a virtually unchallenged run for quite a bearing upstart. The first thing I noticed about the car
while before others appeared on the scene. In spite of was its registration number-plate from Gujarat. Now, the
competition it continues to be popular, and not without
reason. Well, it isn’t much of a looker but it is compact,
easy to drive, not too cramped and decently equipped.
Power comes from Maruti’s tried and tested 1.3-litre TO PERFORM WELL IN THIS SEGMENT
DDiS diesel engine. With 75 PS and 190 Nm of torque on
tap, the car had always felt peppy. Although it no longer EACH OF THE THREE COMPETITORS
sets the benchmark in the fuel economy department, it is
still efficient none the less, returning 19.5 km/l overall.
IN THIS TEST HAVE TO PROVIDE THE
Driving dynamics, though not ground-breaking, are MAXIMUM VALUE FOR MONEY
entertaining.

1
2 3
uninitiated may ask about the significance of this, but
those who are in the know will realise that this is the
first physical evidence of the fact that Ford’s new plant
in Sanand, Gujarat, is truly operational and has gone
into action in the war with the Japanese. Juxtapose the
DZire, Amaze and the Figo Aspire with each other
and there’s no doubt as to which wins the beauty
contest. I’d pick the Ford over the other two 10 times
out of 10. There’s a certain flair to the design (in spite 1 The Figo Aspire
of, or perhaps because of, the Aston Martin-esque has adequate
grille) that makes it stand out in the crowd. The boot legroom at the rear
design is well integrated and, as in the Amaze, doesn’t
feel like an afterthought. 2 The Amaze has
While you could argue that looks are subjective, the biggest boot
with 400 litres of
what one can’t argue about is that the Ford also feels cargo space
the most premium of the three. The cabin is crafted of
materials that feel richer than what you see in the other
3 The Amaze also
two, and they’ve been fitted well, too. Although it has the most
doesn’t feel so when you simply look at the space amount of rear
inside, the Figo Aspire is actually roomier than the legroom but the
least shoulder
room 4
4 The Swift DZire

has the least
legroom of the lot
but the most
shoulder room

SHOOTOUT
The Aspire gets Ford's

SYNC with AppLink
system
Switchgear feels nice to

touch and operate

OUR CHOICE
Parameters Ford Figo Aspire TDCi Honda Amaze i-DTEC Maruti Suzuki DZire 1.3 DDiS Amaze with more head-, leg- and knee-room. The DZire,
Price (ex-showroom, Delhi) Rs 7,73,490 Rs 7,80,100 Rs 7,90,744
however, continues to hold the shoulder-room crown. At
Cabin 350 litres, the Figo Aspire loses the boot space battle to
Head room 930-1000 mm ✓ 890-990 mm 910-990 mm the Honda. On the equipment front, the Figo gets auto
Front leg room 1050-1235 mm ✓ 920-1100 mm NA climate control and Ford’s SYNC with AppLink system
Front knee room 715-910 mm ✓ 650-900 mm 650-870 mm with Emergency Assist (the latter places a call to a pre-
Rear knee room 615-835 mm 720-950 mm ✓ NA programmed emergency service number via your
Shoulder room 1315 mm 1250 mm 1340 mm ✓ Bluetooth sync-ed phone in the event of a crash). On the
Cabin Feel 1 3 2
go, the Ford’s cabin is also the quietest of the lot.
Boot space 359 litres 400 litres ✓ 316 litres
Equipment
Under the bonnet of the Figo Aspire is Ford’s 1.5-litre
Touchscreen X ✓ X TDCi diesel engine. It’s quite a refined unit and quite
Voice-activated Commands ✓ X X powerful too. Unlike the other two, it doesn’t feel very
Emergency Assistance ✓ X X peppy when you drive it but that’s deceptive, for with a
Automatic Climate Control ✓ X ✓ 0-100 km/h time of 10.74 seconds, the Figo Aspire is the
Rear 12V power outlet X X ✓ quickest of the trio, and by some margin. The car also
Engine & Drive Feel posts the highest top speed of 174.45 km/h, compared to
Fuel Economy 15.2 km/l 21.5 km/l ✓ 19.5 km/l
Engine & Gearbox 1.5 Diesel, 5 MT 1.5 Diesel, 5 MT 1.3 Diesel, 5 MT
the Amaze’s 140.97 km/h. The DZire’s top speed sits
Maximum Power 100 PS 100 PS 75 PS between the two at about 160 km/h. Unfortunately, the
Maximum Torque 215 Nm 200 Nm 190 Nm Ford gets beaten hollow at the fuel economy stakes,
Acceleration (0-100 km/h) 10.74 s ✓ 13.14 s 14.24 s managing to return an overall efficiency figure of 15.2 km/l.
Top Speed 174.45 km/h ✓ 140.97 km/h 160 km/h What the Ford does hit back with is a combination of
Handling 1 1 2 dynamics and ride quality. It feels the most stable of the
Ride Quality 1 2 3 three on straights and holds its line like a train on rails on
Steering Feel 2 1 3
bends. Even quick and repeated direction changes fail to
Safety
Airbags ✓ ✓ ✓
upset the Figo Aspire. Driving over bad roads, the Figo
ABS ✓ ✓ ✓ Aspire also offers the plushest ride quality, isolating the
EBD X ✓ X passengers from the road irregularities quite well. The
ESP ✓ X X only chink in its armour on this aspect is the steering feel,
Hill Launch Assist ✓ X X where the Amaze returns the best feedback from the
Price Performance Relation 1 2 3 wheel. The DZire, meanwhile, tails both the Honda and

SHOOTOUT
Ford Figo Aspire TDCi Titanium (Rs 7.73 lakh, ex-Delhi) 11112 Car Road Test 416


Overall Length 3995mm Front Track 1492mm, Rear Track 1484mm
Kerb Weight NA

Cylinders Four cylinders, in-line Wheel size 14” Gear Indicated True 80-0 km/h 3.57 s, 42.84 m
Engine Layout Front, transverse Tyre size 175/65 R14 1st 50 44.2 100-0 km/h 3.96 s, 52.33 m
Type Turbocharged, DI 2nd 85 81.1
Fuel Diesel 3rd 125 120.4
BRAKES
Bore x Stroke NA 4th 175 158.2 PERFORMANCE FACTORS
Capacity 1498 cc Front Ventilated discs 5th 190 174.45 Power:Weight (PS/tonne) NA
Compression ratio 16:1 Rear Drums
Specific Output (PS/litre) NA
Valvegear DOHC, 4 valves/cyl Specific Torque (Nm/litre) NA
SUSPENSION
TOP SPEED
ENGINE OUTPUT Front Independent, MacPherson
Claimed NA FUEL CONSUMPTION
struts with coil spring, anti-roll bar
Max power (PS) 100 Achieved 174.45 km/h
Rear Semi-independent twist beam City 13.7
Power peak (rpm) 3750 with twin gas charged Highway 19.8
Red line (rpm) 5000 and oil filled shock absorbers Overall* 15.2
Max torque (Nm) 215 OVERTAKING ACCELERATION * Overall is 25% highway
Torque peak (rpm) 1750-3000 ACCOMMODATION and 75% city driving
Roll-ons
Seating 5 Speed 3rd 4th 5th
Head Room, F/R 1000/930
TRANSMISSION 40-60 2.38 4.53 8.29
Leg Room F (max/min) 1235/1050 60-80 2.34 3.18 4.87 TEST CONDITIONS
Five-speed, manual Knee Room F (max/min) 910/715 80-100 2.84 3.34 4.62 Altitude 550m above MSL
1st gear 3.583 Knee Room R (max/min) 835/615 100-120 6.86 3.64 5.32 Weather Warm, windless, dry
2nd gear 1.950 Shoulder space 1315
3rd gear 1.231 Fuel tank 40 litres
4th gear
5th gear
0.951
0.756
Boot space 359 litres PERFORMANCE
Reverse gear NA
Final drive 3.370 DRIVERS AIDS
xxwer steering, optional ABS
200
Drive wheels FWD
ACCELERATION (km/h)
180
STEERING CAR RATINGS 160

Type Rack and pinion with Design & Style: 11112 140 21.63s
electric power assist Powertrain: 11112
Lock to lock 3 turns
120 16.04s
Performance: 11111
Dynamic Ability: 11111 7.40s
HIGHLIGHTS Space: 11112
80
60 4.66s
Creature Comforts: 11111
Handling Driver Appeal: 11112 40 2.42s
Premium feel Safety: 11112
Features Interior: 11111 20 1.11s
TIME, SECONDS
Acceleration Suspension: 11111 0
Ride Quality: 11111 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28
Rear knee room Handling: 11112
Steering: 11112 0-400m sprint: Terminal speed: 1 km sprint: Terminal speed:
Boot space
or promotion or advertisement without the explicit written permission of the editor. (Performance testing by Aninda Sardar)

the Ford in the steering feedback department. 1 The Figo
Where braking is concerned, it’s the Amaze that has Aspire's engine 1
pushes the Ford to
the best brakes with the DZire coming in second and the the highest top
Figo Aspire finishing last. On the safety front, all three speed in the least
amount of time,
cars get dual airbags and ABS but the Honda additionally with 0-100 km/h
gets EBD while the Ford benefits from ESP as well as dispatched in
Hill Launch Assist, which holds the car in its place for 10.74 seconds
three full seconds on inclines and allows you to move your
foot from the brake pedal to the throttle without the Figo 2 The Earth
Aspire rolling back. The Ford also offers the option of six Dreams derived
Honda i-DTEC is
airbags, the only one on the test to offer this option. the most
On the question of ownership, the DZire does have the economical of this
advantage with Maruti Suzuki boasting of the widest lot with a 21.5 km/l
fuel economy
service and dealership network in the country among all figure
manufacturers. However, on the all-important aspect of
pricing, at Rs 7.91 lakh (Rs 7,90,744 to be exact), ex-
3 The DZire's 1.3
showroom, Delhi, the Maruti Suzuki DZire is the most DDiS unit does the
expensive vehicle on this test. With the least bang for the job adequately but
buck, the DZire, therefore, stands on the lowest step of doesn't excel at
anything
the podium. The battle for the top spot goes down to the
wire with the Amaze and the Figo Aspire being separated
by less than Rs 7,000, the latter being the more affordable 3 2
of the two. The Amaze beats the Figo on fuel economy,
boot space, steering feel and braking. It’s also got a
touchscreen and a sat-nav, not to mention EBD. The
Figo has better acceleration, a higher top speed, better
handling and ride quality, more room and a plusher cabin.
It’s also got voice activated commands, SYNC,
Emergency Assistance, ESP and Hill Launch Assist. So,
the two are nearly on a par with the Ford Figo Aspire just
managing to edge out the Honda with its higher price-
performance relation.

FEATURE
Mahindra Adventure Great Escape
FOLLOWING
THE TRAIL
Story: Ryan Lee Photography: Aditya Dhiwar
Mahindra Adventure invited Car India to experience

the 124th edition of the Mahindra Great Escape at
Lonavala, near Pune. Here is all the action
I
N KEEPING WITH THEIR CUSTOM TO
go off the beaten path, Mahindra Adventure
recently organised an off-roading weekend at
Lonavala, near Pune. With over 100 of the
company’s 4WD machines taking part in various
events such as the 10-km jungle drive, 2WD
obstacle course and the Mahindra Off-road
Trophy, the whole atmosphere was electrifying.
The participants were allowed to take part in any of
these events. As for myself, I am an off-road enthusiast, so
I decided to take part in the trophy challenge, which is an
extreme off-roading event. What a way to start a weekend!
After a sumptuous breakfast all the participants were
briefed about the event, the different challenges
involved, and the points system. There were three
stages: a stream crossing, the slush pit, and the rock
crawl. Each participant would be marked on skill and
vehicle preservation.

After the briefing, it was time to rock and roll. I was
given the key to a 2015 Mahindra Thar. Highly excited, I
was ready to put the Thar to the test.
The first challenge was the stream crossing. Here we
had to drive through a slushy slope into the stream, take
a U-turn, and drive back out. The task was not difficult;
the only problem was the slushy part. By the time I got
behind the wheel, the slope was like a river of mud. As
the countdown began, I slotted the Thar in the second
and let go. The car slowly made its way down the slope
without getting stuck. The stream crossing was not very
tricky — with proper wheel placement and by inching
forward I crossed the stream with ease. The steering on
the new Thar felt much lighter and easier to manoeuvre
as compared to the old one’s. It was time to make my
way to the top without getting stuck. After gaining
some momentum, I started the climb. Slotting the Thar
in the second and with some throttle modulation, I
made it till the finish-line within the given time and
without getting stuck.
The next obstacle was the slush pit. The first few
competitors got stuck half way through the trail and
were asked to park by the side; the reason being the
wheels would get covered with wet mud and the Thar
would lose all grip, ending up spinning away to glory.
By the time it was my turn, the track was riddled with
ruts, thus making it all the more difficult. But thanks to
the rear diff lock and immense 247 Nm of torque I
came out triumphant.
The last challenge, the rock crawl, was the trickiest,
for it involved going through a small muddy course and
then climbing through huge boulders to get out on the
other side. This was the most difficult and challenging
course, and here the vehicle, spotter and driver had to
work in complete harmony to get to the other side. It
was my turn to rise and shine. After clearing the slushy
bit it was time to tackle the boulders. It was at this
course that I really experienced the significance of a diff
lock, and just how much it helps to get one out of sticky
situations. Precise wheel placement and throttle control
proved to be the key to my success.
All in all, the Mahindra Great Escape is a brilliant
event that perfectly showcases the capabilities of the
Indian car-maker’s products. The event allowed all us
participants to get a good idea of what these cars are
capable of when driven over mud and rock.

SPORT
Volkswagen Vento Cup
KARMINDER EXTENDS
CHAMPIONSHIP LEAD
Karminder led the championship amid red flags and restarts and several other
incidents at the Kari Motorway in Coimbatore while Ishaan clinched his first podium
of the season in the second round of the Volkswagen Vento Cup championship
Report and Photography: Aniruddha Mulgund
I
IT WAS A FLAG-TO-FLAG VICTORY FOR Pole-sitter
Anindtih clinched
pole-sitter Anindith Reddy in race one, ahead of the first place in
Ishaan Dodhiwala who clinched the first podium of Race 1 with Ishan
close on his heels.
the season. Completing the podium in third place Karminder took
was championship leader Karminder who won the the final spot on
second race on Sunday. Ishaan retained the second the podium
place ahead of Anindith in third in the second race.
Race One
Despite having qualified second behind Anindith, the 2010
Polo R Cup champion, Sailesh Bolisetti, suffered a DNF
after being pushed off the track on the very first lap. Taking
advantage of this, third qualifier Raghav Sharma moved up
to second place. Karminder, who had qualified fifth,
progressed to the fourth place behind Ishaan. While the
front-runners maintained a follow-the-leader stance, the
mid-field saw some serious action leading up to the red flag
situation caused due to Harkishan Wadia losing control of

Harikishan
Wadia lost control
of his car at turn
eight and ended
up T-boning
Raghav Sharma’s
car before hitting
the tyre-wall
Race 1 had to be
restarted following
Harikishan’s
shenanigans in the
gravel
Sailesh
Bolisetti’s Race 1
ended abruptly
after running wide
at the very first
corner of the race
his car in corner eight before the right-left-right chicane. and getting ahead of everyone in the very first lap of the
Harkishan ran straight across the gravel trap and ended up race was the most important part of the race for me. During
T-boning Raghav Sharma’s car before hitting the tyre-wall. the first round, too, I had started down the order and come
Following this, race direction enforced a restart with up to win. This time I have repeated the success and I have
Anindith in the lead once again, ahead of Ishaan and taken the all-important points in the championship.”
Karminder. Rithvik Thomas, who qualified 10th, Karminder’s consistent performance has put him at the
progressed commendably in the race and finished in the top of the championship charts with 200 points. However,
fourth place ahead of Vigneshwar Devarajan who had his closest rival, Anindith, follows him closely with a gap of
An elated
qualified eighth. Major championship contender Sailesh Karminder took just four points. Although Anindith leads Ishaan with a
Bolisetti settled for a DNF which led to him starting from the top step in hefty gap of 38 points, the latter is a formidable competitor,
the back of the grid in race two. Race 2 followed by one to watch out for in the future.
Ishaan in second
and Anindith in The next round of the Vento Cup will be held at the
Race Two third place Buddh International Circuit in October.
Race two started with a reverse grid formation which put
the top eight from race one in a reverse formation.
Karminder, who started sixth, progressed quickly in the
initial laps of the race and began extending lead. Behind
him, Ishaan put on a tough fight and swapped a fair share
of paint with top rival Anindith who started the race in the
eighth place. Pradeep Rao benefited greatly from the
reverse grid formation and finished fourth, ahead of Sailesh,
who put on a commendable performance starting from the
back of the grid. The battle for the sixth, seventh and
eighth places saw some nail-biting action among Raghav,
Sahil and Rithvik completing the race in that order. Sahil
Gahuri, who started from the second position, was awarded
a 10-second penalty for overtaking under the yellow flag
and subsequently finished in the seventh place.
Commenting on a fantastic victory, an ecstatic
Karminder said, “I am very happy to be back on the top
spot of the podium. The start of the race was perfect for me

SPORT
JK Tyre Championship
Sensational
Weekend at Kari
When the top 10 of the grid qualify within less than a second of each other, you are
guaranteed of a tooth-and-nail fight when the lights go out. The second round of the
JK Tyre Championship kept us on the edge of our seats as the drama unfolded
Report and Photography: Aniruddha Mulgund
J
K FB02 Race One took the second place ahead of Kush. Ananth Shanmugan
Krishnaraj Mahadik clocked a blistering moved a place in the ranks and finished fourth, ahead of
1:04.639 in qualifying and took pole position. Akash Gowda, Karthik Tharani and international driver
However, 15-year-old Kush Maini raced Constantino Peroni. It was a less than perfect race for
better than when he qualified and blitzed past BRDC driver Akhil Rabindra who finished eighth.
Krishnaraj on the second lap itself. Third
qualifier Vishnu Prasad watched patiently as the action JK FB02 Race Two
unfolded in front of him and made his move on the battling Krishnaraj Mahadik put on a tough fight to Vishnu Prasad
duo of Kush and Krishnaraj on lap three. He retained the who overtook him on the very first lap. However, Mahadik
leading position and went on to win the race while Kush fought back to regain the lead on lap three and retained it
and Krishnaraj battled hard for the second place. to the chequered flag. Behind them Kush Maini sought an
Subsequently, Krishnaraj emerged victorious in this and opportune moment eagerly but was unable to overtake.

The JK FB02
category fielded a
sparse but an
extremely
competitive grid of
12 cars
The Formula LGB

F4 series fielded a
competitive 21-
car grid
Clearly disappointed with his performance in the first race, LGB Formula 4 Race Two
Akhil Rabindra charged from the eighth place and Race two had to be restarted due to a five-car pile-up on
progressed to fourth. A safety car period worked in his the opening lap itself. The incident relegated Karthik
favour and he was able to close the gap on Kush in third Shankar, Sudarshana Rao and Rohit Khanna out of the
place who was troubled by a faulty gear-shifter. Riding on race. The restarted race saw a close battle among Ajay Kini,
his vast experience, Akhil exploited the situation and Raghul, Chittesh Mandody and Diljith. Diljith was forced
overtook Kush to take the final spot on the podium, behind off the track on the 11th lap of the 15-lap race due to a hit
Mahadik and Vishnu. from the back. The race ended with Ajay Kini taking his
second win of the weekend ahead of Raghul and
JK FB02 Race Three Krishnaraj.
Ananth Shanmugan’s progress throughout was a linear one
culminating with him taking his first win in the final race LGB Formula 4 Race Three
of the weekend. Ananth led a clean flag-to-flag race The action doubled in the final race of the weekend. Only
without stepping a toe out of the racing line but Vishnu’s 13 of the 21 cars managed to finish the race while the other
presence ensured that he would not have an easy race eight were relegated. The action-packed race called for the
ahead of him. Vishnu made a Hail Mary pass in the last safety car period on two occasions. A closely fought battle
two laps of the race but was unable to overtake a consistent amongst the top eight for the podium saw Ajay Kini emerge
Ananth. A fierce battle ensued behind them for the final victorious with his smooth and flawless driving style.
spot on the podium which ended in Karthik Tharani The final race of
Raghul Rangaswamy, who started from the fifth place,
the LGB category
taking the third place. Constantino finished the race in was an eventful progressed through the ranks and took the second spot.
fourth place. Close on his heels was Kush, followed by one with eight Starting from the 10th place, Diljith moved up in the ranks
Nayan. Race two winner Krishnaraj finished in a DNFs; only 13 of
the 21 cars and despite all incidents managed to take the final spot on
disappointing seventh place, ahead of Sandeep Kumar, finished the race the podium.
Akhil Rabindr and Akash Gowda.
LGB Formula 4 Race One

The LGB Formula 4 category never fails to keep the
fans on the edge with lots of action. In race one itself
the safety car had to be summoned twice. Pole-sitter
Ajay Kini led a clean flag-to-flag race. Eleventh
qualifier Raghul Rangaswamy took advantage of the
multiple spin-outs and incidents in the race to take the
second place. Diljith TS of Avalanche Racing, who
had qualified ninth, made his way through the grid to
take the third place, ahead of Karthik Shankar and
Vishnu Prasad, who was followed by close rival
Krishnaraj Mahadik.

SPORT
Jehan at Nürburgring
JEHAN’S
NÜRBURGRING FEAT
The young Mumbaikar proved

to be highly competitive at Story: Ravi Chandnani
the legendary Green Hell Photography: Rayo Racing
J
EHAN DARUVALA, WHO IS A GRADUATE Jehan’s hopes were dampened when his car lost drive, forcing him
OF the Sahara Force India Academy, recently did to retire. Nevertheless, his performance in the first race was enough
India proud at the iconic Nürburgring racetrack in two to get him the ‘Best Rookie of the Race’ award and a special place
different events. His first time at the Green Hell saw on the podium.
him participate in the Formula Renault 2.0 Eurocup Jehan returned to Nürburgring the following week to continue his
series where, in race one, his performance was participation in the NEC series wherein his performance was
unbelievably good. commendable in both the races. In the practice sessions the
Being a rookie at Nürburgring, the qualifying session saw the youngster was on top of the time-sheets. During qualifying all the
young driver struggle, but he had the pace to place himself ninth on drivers were gunning for a front-row start, but Jehan’s superb pace
the starting grid in race one. As the lights went out, Jehan was quick enabled him to start from the second row.
to overtake the car in front of him to move into eighth. Soon Race one of NEC series at Nürburgring saw Jehan fight his way
thereafter he managed to climb one more place by overtaking throughout the race. He managed to defend his fourth place till it
another car. He eventually managed to finish seventh out of 35, started raining and the race was restarted. After the lights went out
which goes to show his exceptional talent. again Jehan was able to fight for a while, though wet conditions only
In race two, however, Jehan wasn’t so lucky. Torrential rain allowed him to finish fifth. His impeccable performance also won
meant that the race started with the safety car out on the track but him the ‘Best Rookie Trophy’ and a place on the podium.
Race two turned out to be even more dramatic with the safety car
being deployed for a brief time. Jehan started off in third and
continued to remain in three until he was challenged by a Belgian
driver who eventually overtook him. However, with the track still
wet, the front running pair of Deletraz and the race leader, Sasahara,
ran wide into a corner which elevated the Belgian into the lead and
placed Jehan in second spot. Jehan defended his second place well,
eventually finishing behind the Belgian, Max Defourny, who won
the race. This gave Jehan his second and well-deserved podium.
Jehan is currently sixth overall in the NEC championship and he
is trailing Max Defourny, who is leading the Rookies’
Championship by 10.5 points. With three more races to go, it will
be exciting if Jehan can garner enough points to knock the Belgian
off the number one spot to take the Rookie Championship and
move up in the overall standings.

SPORT
APRC Japan
TEAM MRF REIGN SUPREME Report: Harket Suchde
Pontus Tidemand and his MRF Škoda team clinch the top spots in the
penultimate round of the Asia Pacific Rally Championship (APRC)
A
S THE DUST SETTLED ON A Tidemand’s team-mate and Indian rally stalwart Gaurav
rainy weekend of rallying competition at the Gill was forced to retire in the very first Special Stage due
Rally Hokkaido, Japan, one team stood head to a technical problem with his Škoda Fabia S2000. Gill
and shoulders above the throng: Team MRF said, “I drove to the start of the day’s first Stage and that
Škoda. The big prizes of APRC title, team was when I realised that there was a problem with the car.
championship, and manufacturer’s trophy The front drive-shaft had broken and there was no drive in
were all won through some stellar driving on the part of the the car, but I managed to finish the Stage before pulling
ace Swedish duo, Pontus Tidemand and his co-driver Emil out. Obviously, I am extremely disappointed as I was
Axelsson. In fact, Tidemand didn’t just win the round, but looking forward to the event and hoping to win to stay in
completely dominated it, crossing the finishing line a the Championship.” Gill was trailing Tidemand by 43
massive 12 minutes before second-placed Michael Young of points at the start of the Rally Hokkaido and hence needed
Cusco Racing and a whole 15 minutes ahead of Hitoshi all the points to stay in the title race.
Takayama of Immens Motorsport in third. Tidemand also had words for Gill’s ill-fate in his victory
Axelsson (L),
Tidemand (R) with
address. He said, “It would have been great had Gill been
trophies aloft around to fight with it. It was unfortunate that he had to
retire, but that is motor sport. However, I am extremely
happy to win the championship on début and I would like
to thank the team members, MRF Tyres and others who
have been part of my success. When I decided to race in
the APRC, I did not know anything about the conditions
or the competition, but I enjoyed all the rallies, though I
would have liked the fight with Gill to extend to the last
round in China.”
Gill still has the second place and top spoils in the Asia
Cup to fight for with one APRC and two Asia Cup
rounds still to go.

SPORT
F1 Italy
QUESTIONS ANSWERED BY SPEED
Story: Jim Gorde

Photography: DPPI
One new and one old Mercedes-AMG power-unit and two charging Ferraris at home at the
temple of speed as round 12, the fastest on the calendar, threw up some interesting outcomes
L
EWIS HAMILTON MAY HAVE
grabbed pole, but the Ferraris stole his thunder
with a lightning-quick performance from
Raikkonen seeing him take P2 just 0.2 of a
second behind, with team-mate Vettel another
fraction of a second behind. Rosberg could
only manage P4. Mercedes-AMG had opted to use their Blue smoke from
the ‘old’ AMG unit
tokens and bring in a new-spec engine to Italy, mainly for signalled the end
better reliability and efficiency. No other teams — neither for the unit and
Williams, nor Lotus nor Force India — got this Rosberg’s race
specification. Insiders said that Mercedes-AMG have Five laps to go, and Lewis’ radio asked him to put in fast
found a good 40 PS since the start of the season in laps and build a gap. The right front tyre seemed to be the
Melbourne just by switching to better quality fuel. problem, but the team told him “no questions”. With three
Raikkonen seemed to be the man on the move in laps to go, Rosberg suffered an engine failure, spewing
qualifying and painted the online town red. However, once blue smoke as his ‘old’ Mercedes power-unit let go.
the lights went out, the only thing he didn’t do was move. Hamilton was again told to “stabilise the pace”. He crossed
With a slow start, P2 soon became P20 at one point of time the line 25 seconds ahead of Vettel, with Massa finishing
and Hamilton rocketed off into the distance; Vettel slowly third after Rosberg’s exit and a fight with his team-mate,
losing ground in second. The Williams were strong as well Bottas. Raikkonen managed a decent fifth place.
and Rosberg found himself fighting with them for position. Seventh victory
Raikkonen was already climbing up the order steadily, for Lewis this year;
at least the trophy
crossing the line in 14th at the end of lap one. is different
Lap 10 was a bit worrisome for Rosberg as the team radio
warned him about potential brake issues. He was busy
chasing down Bottas. Another revelation came from Button
and his McLaren-Honda. Honda engineers claimed they
had more power than Renault, but, on lap 16, young
Verstappen held his own against the Brit, even though the
McLaren was flat out with DRS open. Raikkonen, rather,
Merhi, had a tense moment at the end of lap 29, when he
almost went into the Ferrari at the entrance of the pit-lane,
locking up to avoid a collision before the white line.

SPORT
F1 Singapore
AHorse and
Bull Tale
Starting from pole after a stormer of a
qualifying lap, Vettel stayed ahead to
claim the Prancing Horse’s third
victory this season, leaving the Silver
Arrows well behind them Story: Jim Gorde Photography: DPPI
B
RIGHT LIGHTS SHOWING THE
way, Vettel got a great start off pole and
rocketed into the lead with the Red Bulls and
Mercedes-AMGs left to play catch-up. A
stalled Verstappen had to begin from the back
of the grid.
At the end of the first lap, Vettel was three seconds ahead
of Ricciardo. The lead continued to grow and the Ferrari
was in a class of its own. The engine upgrade had put them
on a par with AMG power. Lap 13 saw contact between
Hulkenberg and Massa, whose Williams was exiting the The reddest
pit-lane. The Hulk was out, as was the Safety Car. podium of recent
time; Ferrari seem
Four laps later, debris cleaned, the race was back on and to be back
Vettel began racing again. Hamilton, however, was
suffering from some sort of problem and began dropping the track, difficult as it was to overtake. There was more
places, eventually retiring from 18th place. Rosberg, contact between Button and Maldonado resulting in the
meanwhile, was up to fourth. Safety Car again as a man McLaren’s front wing coming off, before being destroyed
decided to take a stroll on the track. As he sauntered off by a charging Sainz. The race went on. Verstappen was the
into the crowd again, it was race back on, but not before man on the move, having fought his way up to eighth
half the field had pitted, including all the front-runners. place, boldly challenging Grosjean and coming out ahead.
With 20 laps to go, it was green and the action was back The two Lotus cars dropped down the order, finishing
on; Vettel taking the advantage and controlling the pace on ahead only of the two Manor cars, with Rossi, in his first
Hulk saw Massa race for Manor, finishing 14th.
coming but Vettel took a popular victory and the fireworks went off.
thought he was
faster; stewards Fastest-lap man Ricciardo was second, with Raikkonen in
slapped him with a third, putting Ferrari back on the map in the championship,
three-place grid
penalty for Japan. but still quite a distance away from the leaders.
DRIVERS’ CHAMPIONSHIP
DRIVER STANDINGS
Lewis Hamilton
Sebastién Ogier 182 252
Nico Rosberg
Jari-Matti Latvala 93 211
Sebastian
Mads Vettel
Østberg 84 203
CONSTRUCTORS’ STANDINGS
MANUFACTURER CHAMPIONSHIP
Mercedes-AMG
Volkswagen 257 463
Ferrari
Citroën 141 310
Williams Mercedes
Hyundai 139 199

SPORT
WRC Germany
HOME RUN FOR

VOLKSWAGEN
It was redemption for Volkswagen Motorsport
at Rally Germany with a one-two-three finish
after disappointment last year
Story: Jim Gorde Photography: DPPI
I
T WAS A HOT, SUNNY DAY IN Germany Nothing like a Panzerplatte 3 for stage 15, as well as in the previous
military base to
as the WRC came to Trier for the ADAC Rallye unleash the stage, Grafschaft 2.
Deutschland. Volkswagen Motorsport were potential of the car It was off to wine country and Stein and Wein with
beaming with the possibility of clinching another the hills and forests where Evans’ strong performance
driver’s title with Sébastien Ogier in a spot gave him the stage win; the only non-VW stage winner
where this could actually happen with four of the Rally. Ogier was at the top and 23 seconds ahead
rounds still to go. of Latvala, who did manage to gain time in the two
It was one-two-three for VW in the first two stages Dhrontal stages but ended up finishing second overall.
with Ogier, Latvala and Mikkelsen staying ahead of the Mikkelsen was under pressure from Sordo, who was
rest in the time-sheets. Latvala was quicker than his charging in his Hyundai, but managed to stay ahead in
team-mate in the third stage at the scenic Moselland. the time-sheets by 12.7 seconds.
The order resumed for the next four stages, with Ogier Special garlands
getting the jump on Latvala for Moselland 2, stage for the entire team
seven. It was Ogier, Latvala and Sordo at the top of to celebrate their
1-2-3 home victory
stage eight. A surprise from Evans on stage nine saw
him in second. Latvala, meanwhile, was back on top at
Bosenberg for stage 10.
The Arena Panzerplatte on army turf then beckoned
with a live mine-field just round the bend. With three
short and two long stages, it was a challenge for the
drivers, many of whom preferred the tight corners and
reasonably long straights. The spread of the arena, even
at 2.87 km, allowed the sea of rally fans to get a great
view of multiple areas. The Panzerplatte Long stage, at
over 45 km, is one of the longest stages on the calendar.
Ogier was on top in four of the five Panzerplatte stages,
a performance which almost sealed his position at the
top, although Latvala was quickest in the quick Arena

SPORT
Interview: Willy Rampf
TECH
TRANSITION
How different from each other are the worlds
of Formula 1 and WRC from the technology
perspective? Car India spoke to Willy Rampf,
technical director at Volkswagen Motorsport,
who has held the same position at the Sauber
F1 Team prior to joining VW
Interviewed by: Jim Gorde
Car India (CI): How different is WRC WR: The main difference is obviously the before a rally weekend?
from F1? Different terrain to deal with, and number of mechanics and how much we can
not just dry or wet. A completely different work on the car. The time limits require us WR: Get the car ready and set up as best as
experience? to do many things as they [the drivers] we can. We have to make sure that
cannot come in at any time, just after stages. everything is perfectly set up for both the
Willy Rampf (WR): Very different. In conditions and the drivers.
WRC, the car is set up for mechanical grip CI: Is it possible that there is less pressure
and not aerodynamic grip with the tyres overall in WRC than in F1? CI: What has been or what is your greatest
and components. In F1, they have titanium challenge?
and carbon-fibre and many other options; WR: No, there’s always pressure to perform.
we have to work with limited materials. We have to be faster and consistent. WR: The greatest challenge is getting the
We start with a standard car chassis and most out of the car with very limited room in
make it lighter, stronger and wider with CI: Things are looking good for Volkswagen several areas to work around with it. The
better bodywork. They [F1 teams] have Motorsport this year. How was it possible to regulations are very tight and we have to
telemetry to get information about the car make the car even faster? optimise everything. There are several places
from both the car and the driver, but here where we can say that a component can be
we have to rely on driver feedback more WR: We have to continuously work on the lighter. Of course, we can’t have lighter but
than anything else. Of course, we have cars to improve performance. If something less strong. Things happen and we have to
great drivers. [Sébastien] Ogier is a can be changed which will make the learn from it. If something breaks, we have
constant. He is constantly fast. Jari Matti slightest difference, we do it. We have to to analyse why it broke and ensure it doesn’t
[Latvala] is a great driver, as is find every last second and try to make things happen again. We can make it stronger, but,
[Andreas] Mikkelsen. as light as possible and improve quickness in at the same time, it shouldn’t be heavier. It
any area. has to be stronger but just as light. The
CI: What’s are the main differences so far as challenge is finding the perfect balance and
the pit-stops are concerned? CI: What are the immediate priorities knowing which way to take.

SPORT
Know?
WRC Behind the Scenes
1
The Polo R WRC makes 318 PS and 430
Did You
Nm from a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-
cylinder petrol engine
There’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes at

every round of the World Rally Championship
(WRC). Having spent some time with Volkswagen
2
To save weight, the sponsor logos are
now the stick-on adhesive kind and are
Motorsport in Trier at Rally Germany, we got some not painted on
insights into the goings-on on a Rally weekend
3
A six-speed sequential racing gearbox
drives all four wheels via a ZF double-
Compiled by: Jim Gorde disc sintered metal clutch

4 6 10
Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h can Cars are packed in containers, minus the The stick-shift lever has made way for
be achieved in as low as 3.9 seconds; tyres, when travelling between rounds to steering-mounted paddle-shifters
top speed is just 200 km/h — agility is make for easier logistics
top priority
7
Quick service? Team mechanics can
5
With a minimum weight of 1,200 kg, the replace suspension units in four minutes
power-to-weight ratio is 265 PS/tonne and a gearbox in just 11 minutes
8
Safety note teams drive the stages before
the competitors to ascertain the type of
tarmac and any changes in terrain or
even weather
9
Asphalt rally tyres are hard-compound
and run an asymmetrical tread pattern
to offer maximum traction and durability
QUICK FACT
Arena Panzerplatte and Panzerplatte
Long stages in Baumholder are on
military turf.
‘Hinkelsteins’ are
large boulders
QUICK FACT which can prove to
At Rally Germany, the drivers cover be car-breaking if
1,227 km over the 21 stages. Each drivers are not
driver gets 54 tyres. Volkswagen careful
Motorsport arrived on
the scene with 162
tyres for their three
drivers. Up to five kg
in rubber is lost
during competition

SPORT
WRC Australia
Story: Ravi Chandnani

Photography: DPPI
HAT-TRICK FOR SÉBASTIEN OGIER

The French rally ace takes home the title trophy by winning the rally down under
O
NCE AGAIN IT IS TIME FOR
team Volkswagen Motorsport to celebrate
as their French rally ace, Sébastien Ogier,
lifted the champion’s trophy at the 10th
round of the competition held in Australia.
The first two days of the rally were
nothing short of treacherous for the Frenchman as he had
to struggle with the gravel-strewn stages. On day two,
however, Ogier was back in action, winning stages 11 and
12. On Sunday, Ogier seemed invincible as he continued
to dominate the rally, winning the final five stages and Championship
eventually taking victory in rally Australia. won, it was time
Meanwhile, behind Ogier, Jari-Matti Latvala was the for celebration for
VW Motorsport
man who enjoyed yet another podium as the Finnish
rallyist managed to finish in the runners-up spot. the podium, it was time for Volkswagen Motorsport to
However, his rally almost ended up in a retirement celebrate as the team also won the manufacturers’ title.
because the alternator warning light came on during the The celebration held greater significance for Ogier
penultimate stage. After a quick belt change the Finn was because he became the second French rally driver to win
out on gravel, throttling his way to the podium. three championships after compatriot Sébastien Loeb
The fight for the final podium place saw Citroën Total (nine championships). He also joined the ranks of great
Abu Dhabi WRT driver Kris Meeke slug it out with rally drivers like Juha Kankkunen and Tommi Mäkinen
Volkswagen Motorsport II driver Andreas Mikkelsen. On (four titles each) who are the only drivers to win more than
Sunday Meeke got some breathing space when VW driver two titles.
Mikkelsen reached late for a mid-leg service, earning a The next round of WRC will be held in France where
10-second penalty. This ensured Meeke a place on the the battle for the number two spot will continue between
podium whereas Mikkelsen was relegated to fourth. the remaining two Volkswagen drivers, Jari-Matti Latvala
With Ogier winning the race and Latvala finishing on and Andreas Mikkelsen.

OUR CARS
S-wagatam Cross
We welcome the Maruti Suzuki S-Cross into the Car India long-term fleet
M
ARUTI SUZUKI LAUNCHED DDiS 320 diesel engine, a 1.6-litre armour. So it was a good purchase
the S-Cross with quite a bit of turbocharged unit that is the bigger proposition. From here onwards,
fanfare. The S-Cross also became brother of the venerable 1.3 DDiS. however, we shall evaluate the ownership
the first car to be retailed by Maruti via The S-Cross DDiS 320 is the latest experience of the Maruti Suzuki S-Cross
the Nexa chain of outlets that promises a vehicle to join the Car India long-term and tell you, our readers, if the ownership
premium retail experience for buyers. fleet. Earlier, when we had conducted a experience can support a product that is
More significantly, the S-Cross was the road test of the vehicle, we had realised inherently good. Stay tuned for updates.
platform on which the Indian that this vehicle could be a winner for
manufacturer made the début of their new Maruti. This despite a few chinks in its — Aninda Sardar
For the Cellular Family

Maruti’s Celerio diesel offers a genuinely cost-effective diesel powertrain for
families that don’t require a big car but desire diesel economy none the less
T
HE MARUTI SUZUKI Maruti Suzuki have rectified that lone
Celerio is a fairly practical shortcoming with the introduction of the
hatchback for a nuclear family. It Celerio DDiS, which features the
isn’t the hottest looking hatch in town but company’s latest 800-cc twin-cylinder
it’s compact and easy to drive and park. diesel engine. When we tested the car,
Yet the Celerio isn’t too bad on space and we realised that though the engine makes
offers moderately comfy seating for four quite a racket, it’s still peppy enough for
adults and a bit of luggage too. It’s city use and very efficient. This is the car
decently equipped too. Most importantly, that we now welcome into the Car India
Maruti have rolled all these desirable long-term fleet. Stay tuned for updates
attributes into one pocket-friendly on life with the Maruti Suzuki Celerio
package. Perhaps, the only thing lacking DDiS 125.
was a diesel powertrain option. Recently, — Ramnath S Chodankar

Thinking big now comes at a small price
Buy a pre-owned car with a small budget with
Tata Capital Car Loans
Buying a car gets easier with our Flexi EMI Cars Loans. They are driven, tested,
certified to be in excellent condition and cost a lot less.
Features:
Online Mobile Multi Car Showroom – cars.tatacapital.com
Inventory of more than 18000 cars.
Get your loan sanctioned in 20 minutes for new and used cars.
Used Car listing from 700 plus dealers from across the country.
Modified cars search based on less driven cars, less aged, EMI and price.
cars.tatacapital.com
Car Loans originated and serviced by Tata Capital Financial Services Limited, and are at its sole discretion. Terms and Conditions apply.
GBU
T H E G O O D T H E B A D & T H E U G LY
INDIA’S PUNCHIEST CAR BUYING GUIDE
INDEX
GBU 130 ASTON MARTIN, AUDI
132 BENTLEY, BMW
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)

TRACTION CONTROL
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ECONOMY (IN KM/L)
POWER WINDOWS
BRAKING SYSTEM
(IN LAKH RUPEES)
OVERALL RATING
CUBIC CAPACITY
134 DATSUN, FERRARI
ALLOY WHEELS
MUSIC SYSTEM
AVERAGE FUEL
NO. OF GEARS
(C/CYLINDERS)
KERB WEIGHT
MODEL NAME
MAX TORQUE
BOOT SPACE
MAX POWER
125
ANTI-LOCK
FIAT, FORCE MOTORS

(IN LITRES)
(IN LITRES)
TYRE SIZE
AIRBAGS
TESTED
(IN Nm)
(IN KG)
(IN PS)
PRICE
136 FORD, GENERAL MOTORS

137 HINDUSTAN MOTORS,
ASTON MARTIN HONDA
VANTAGE
For: NA. Against: NA. Verdict: NA.
138 HYUNDAI
Alternatives: 1. Ferrari California T 2. Porsche 911 3. Mercedes S-Coupé 4. Lamborghini Huracán
V8 Coupé 280.00* 4735/8 7A 470 426 1630 80 NA 275/35 R19   NA 290 NA     NA NA
140 ICML, ISUZU, JAGUAR
V8 Roadster
V8 S Coupé
299.00*
305.00*
4735/8
4735/8
7A
7A
470
490
426
436
1710
1610
80
80
NA
NA
275/35 R19
285/35 R19




NA
NA
290
305
NA
NA








NA
NA
NA
NA
141 LAMBORGHINI,
V8 S Roadster 325.00* 4735/8 7A 490 436 1690 80 NA 285/35 R19 NA 305 NA NA NA
V12 S Coupé 375.00* 5935/12 7A 620 573 1665 80 NA 295/30 R19



 NA 330 NA







 NA NA LAND ROVER
V12 S Roadster 400.00* 5935/12 7A 620 573 1745 80 NA 295/30 R19   NA 323 NA     NA NA
142 MAHINDRA
DB9
For: NA. Against: NA. Verdict: NA. 144 MARUTI SUZUKI
Alternatives: 1. Porsche 911 Turbo 2. Bentley Continental GT
Coupé 410.00* 5935/12 6A 620 517 1785 78 NA 295/30 R20   NA 295 NA     NA NA
146 MASERATI,
VANQUISH MERCEDES-BENZ
For: NA. Against: NA. Verdict: NA. 148 MINI, NISSAN, PORSCHE
Alternatives: 1. Bentley Continental GT Speed 2. Ferrari F12berlinetta 3. Lamborghini Aventador
Coupé 435.00* 5935/12 8A 630 576 1739 80 NA 305/30 R20   NA 324 NA     NA NA 149 PREMIER AUTO,
Volanté 470.00* 5935/12 8A 630 576 1844 78 NA 305/30 R20   NA 317 NA     NA NA
RAPIDE 150 RENAULT, ROLLS-ROYCE

For: NA. Against: NA. Verdict: NA. 151 SSANGYONG, SKODA,
Alternatives: 1. Porsche Panamera 2. Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Rapide S 425.00* 5935/12 8A 630 560 1990 90.5 NA 295/35 R20   NA 306 NA     NA NA SUZUKA RACING
AUDI 152 TATA MOTORS
A3 153 TOYOTA
For: Refinement, performance, ride, handling, build quality. Against: Rear space. Verdict: Sporty, but comfortable family sedan. 154 VOLKSWAGEN
Alternatives: 1. Skoda Superb 2. Volkswagen Jetta 3. Mercedes-Benz A-Class 4. BMW 1 Series 5. Volvo V40
40 TFSI Premium+ 31.40* 1798/4 7A 250 180 1295 50 425 225/45 R17   8.26 220 11.88     Dec 14 11111 155 VOLVO
35 TDI Attraction 24.56* 1968/4 6A 320 143 1340 50 425 205/55 R16   10.0 196 15.75     NA NA
35 TDI Technology 34.06* 1968/4 6A 320 143 1340 50 425 225/45 R17   10.0 196 15.75     Aug 14 11111
40 TFSI Cabriolet 44.75* 1798/4 7A 250 180 1430 50 320 225/45 R17   8.76 220 11.88     Jan 15 11111
A4
NEW THIS MONTH
For: Audi technology. Against: Price. Verdict: A refined and comfortable car.
Alternatives: 1. BMW 3 Series 2. Volvo S60 3. Mercedes-Benz C-Class
35 TFSI Premium
35 TDI Premium
32.68*
36.42*
1798/4
1968/4
CVT
CVT
320
350
170
177
1545
1595
63
63
480
480
225/55 R16
225/55 R16




9.64
8.4
225
196
11.25
13.25








Jun 12
NA
11111
NA LEGENDS
MARUTI SUZUKI CIAZ SHVS
35 TDI Technology
S4 TFSI quattro
40.79*
52.64*
1968/4
2995/6
CVT
7A
350
440
177
333
1595
1780
63
61
480
480
LAND ROVER DISCOVERY SPORT
225/50 R17
245/40 R18




8.4
6.09
196
250
13.25
8.25








Jan 14
Oct 12
11111
11111 PRICES
Taking clean motoring further is Out with the Freelander and in On the road, Pune
A6India's first affordable diesel smart with the all-new Discovery Sport. BO: Available only By Order
For: Refinement,
car. Withinteriors, levels, ride quality. Against: Price. Verdict: Sets a new benchmark in its segment.
NVH torque
hybrid
Alternatives:
assist and ERS,
start/stop,
1.it's
Mercedes-Benz E-Class 2. BMW 5 Series 3. Jaguar XF 4. Volvo S80
a worthy choice
Modern and more contemporary,
it packs more ability and tech
*: Ex-showroom price listed
NA: Price not available
35 TFSI Premium 45.28* 1984/4 CVT 320 180 1640 75 530 225/55 R17   9.42 226 9.13     Jan 14 11111
35from Rs 8.23 lakh (ex-showroom).
TDI Premium 44.10* 1968/4 CVT 380 177 1660 75 530 225/55 R17   9.5 220 13.8 making
  ita fantastic
 NAall-rounder.
NA FEATURES
35 TDI Technology 53.68* 1968/4 CVT 380 177 1660 75 530 225/55 R17   9.5 220 13.8     Dec 11 11111
S6 TFSI quattro 95.25* 3993/8 7A 550 420 1895 75 530 255/40 R19   5.39 220 8.13     Nov 13 11111 F: Front only
O: Optional equipment

GBU
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)

TRACTION CONTROL
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ECONOMY (IN KM/L)
POWER WINDOWS
BRAKING SYSTEM
(IN LAKH RUPEES)
OVERALL RATING
CUBIC CAPACITY
ALLOY WHEELS
MUSIC SYSTEM
AVERAGE FUEL
NO. OF GEARS
(C/CYLINDERS)
KERB WEIGHT
MODEL NAME
MAX TORQUE
BOOT SPACE
MAX POWER
ANTI-LOCK
(IN LITRES)
(IN LITRES)
TYRE SIZE
AIRBAGS
TESTED
(IN Nm)
(IN KG)
(IN PS)
PRICE
ASTON MARTIN
VANTAGE
Alternatives: 1. Ferrari California T 2. Porsche 911 3. Mercedes S-Coupé 4. Lamborghini Huracán
V8 Coupé 280.00* 4735/8 7A 470 426 1630 80 NA 275/35 R19   NA 290 NA     NA NA
V8 Roadster 299.00* 4735/8 7A 470 426 1710 80 NA 275/35 R19   NA 290 NA     NA NA
V8 S Coupé 305.00* 4735/8 7A 490 436 1610 80 NA 285/35 R19   NA 305 NA     NA NA
V12 S Coupé 375.00* 5935/12 7A 620 573 1665 80 NA 295/30 R19   NA 330 NA     NA NA
DB9
Alternatives: 1. Porsche 911 Turbo 2. Bentley Continental GT
VANQUISH
Alternatives: 1. Bentley Continental GT Speed 2. Ferrari F12berlinetta 3. Lamborghini Aventador
Volanté 470.00* 5935/12 8A 630 576 1844 78 NA 305/30 R20   NA 317 NA     NA NA
RAPIDE
Alternatives: 1. Porsche Panamera 2. Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Rapide S 425.00* 5935/12 8A 630 560 1990 90.5 NA 295/35 R20   NA 306 NA     NA NA
AUDI
A3
For: Refinement, performance, ride, handling, build quality. Against: Rear space. Verdict: Sporty, but comfortable family sedan.
Alternatives: 1. Skoda Superb 2. Volkswagen Jetta 3. Mercedes-Benz A-Class 4. BMW 1 Series 5. Volvo V40
40 TFSI Premium 25.50* 1798/4 7A 250 180 1295 50 425 225/45 R17   8.26 220 11.88     Dec 14 11111
35 TDI Attraction 24.56* 1968/4 6A 320 143 1340 50 425 205/55 R16   10.0 196 15.75     NA NA
35 TDI Technology 34.06* 1968/4 6A 320 143 1340 50 425 225/45 R17   10.0 196 15.75     Aug 14 11111
40 TFSI Cabriolet 44.75* 1798/4 7A 250 180 1430 50 320 225/45 R17   8.76 220 11.88     Jan 15 11111
A4
For: Audi technology. Against: Price. Verdict: A refined and comfortable car.
Alternatives: 1. BMW 3 Series 2. Volvo S60 3. Mercedes-Benz C-Class
35 TFSI Premium 32.68* 1798/4 CVT 320 170 1545 63 480 225/55 R16   9.64 225 11.25     Jun 12 11111
35 TDI Premium 36.42* 1968/4 CVT 350 177 1595 63 480 225/55 R16   8.4 196 13.25     NA NA
35 TDI Technology 40.79* 1968/4 CVT 350 177 1595 63 480 225/50 R17   8.4 196 13.25     Jan 14 11111
S4 TFSI quattro 52.64* 2995/6 7A 440 333 1780 61 480 245/40 R18   6.09 250 8.25     Oct 12 11111
A6
For: Refinement, interior, equipment, ride quality. Against: Price. Verdict: Sets a new benchmark in its segment.
Alternatives: 1. Mercedes-Benz E-Class 2. BMW 5 Series 3. Jaguar XF 4. Volvo S80
35 TFSI Matrix 45.90* 1798/4 7A 320 190 1780 75 530 245/40 R18   NA 233 NA     Oct 15 11111
35 TDI Matrix 49.50* 1968/4 7A 400 190 1830 75 530 245/40 R18   9.92 226 NA     Oct 15 11111
S6 TFSI quattro 95.25* 3993/8 7A 550 420 1895 75 530 255/40 R19   5.39 250 8.13     Nov 13 11111

ASTON MARTIN AUDI
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)

TRACTION CONTROL
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ECONOMY (IN KM/L)
POWER WINDOWS
BRAKING SYSTEM
(IN LAKH RUPEES)
OVERALL RATING
CUBIC CAPACITY
(CC/CYLINDERS)
ALLOY WHEELS
MUSIC SYSTEM
AVERAGE FUEL
NO. OF GEARS
KERB WEIGHT
MODEL NAME
MAX TORQUE
BOOT SPACE
MAX POWER
ANTI-LOCK
(IN LITRES)
(IN LITRES)
TYRE SIZE
AIRBAGS
TESTED
(IN Nm)
(IN KG)
(IN PS)
PRICE
A8 L
For: Luxury at its best. State-of-the-art technology. Against: Price. Verdict: The new king of the ring.
Alternatives: 1. Mercedes-Benz S-Class 2. BMW 7 Series 3. Jaguar XJ
50 TDI quattro Premium 108.95* 2967/6 8A 580 250 1935 82 520 235/55 R18   7.02 250 8.75     Jun 14 11111
60 TDI quattro 132.74* 4134/8 8A 850 385 2170 82 490 235/55 R18   5.04 250 8.13     Mar 15 11111
60 TFSI quattro 137.72* 3993/8 8A 600 435 2050 82 490 235/55 R18   NA 250 NA     NA NA
W12 FSI quattro 187.15* 6299/12 8A 625 500 2150 82 490 255/45 R19   NA 250 NA     NA NA
TT COUPÉ
For: A fun little sports car for everyday use. Against: Space. Verdict: A sportscar for the price of a luxury sedan.
Alternatives: 1. BMW Z4 2. Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class
45 TFSI quattro 60.34* 1984/4 6A 370 230 1335 55 305 245/40 R18   6.03 250 11.5     Apr 15 11111
RS 5 COUPÉ
For: Performance, usability. Against: Price, fuel economy. Verdict: If you want an everyday sports car to use, this is it.
Alternatives: 1. BMW M4 Coupé
4.2 FSI quattro 108.79* 4163/8 7A 430 450 1725 64 455 265/35 R19   5.9 250 5.0     Dec 13 11111
RS 6 AVANT
For: Space, performance, practicality. Against: Price. Verdict: An enthusiast family car with several reasons to justify its purchase.
Alternatives: None as yet.
4.0 TFSI quattro 135.00* 3993/8 8A 700 560 1950 75 565 285/30 R21   4.32 250 4.75     Aug 15 11111
RS 7 SPORTBACK
For: Luxury factor of an A8 with fun factor of a coupé. Against: Rear headroom. Verdict: A driver's luxury car with an attitude.
Alternatives: 1. BMW M6 Gran Coupé
4.0 TFSI quattro 140.21* 3993/8 8A 700 560 1920 75 535 275/35 R20   4.48 250 4.75     May 14 11111
R8
For: Performance, design, usability. Against: Price. Verdict: An incredibly well-rounded performance car.
Alternatives: 1. Porsche 911 Turbo 2. Jaguar F-Type
V10 Coupé 199.86* 5204/10 7A 530 525 1720 90 100 295/30 R19   4.04 261 NA     Apr 13 11111
V10 Spyder 219.62* 5204/10 7A 530 525 1820 80 100 295/30 R19   NA NA NA     NA NA
Q3
For: All the luxuries of a ‘Q’ SUV in a small package. Against: Price. Verdict: Small, but still a Q.
Alternatives: 1. BMW X1 2. Volvo V40 Cross Country 3. MINI Countryman 4. Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class
TDI S Edition 28.99* 1968/4 6 320 140 1520 64 460 235/55 R17   11.1 182 15.5     Feb 14 11111
35 TDI quattro Premium 35.59* 1968/4 7A 380 177 1660 64 460 235/55 R17   9.05 210 13.5     May 12 11111
35 TDI quattro Premium+ 37.50* 1968/4 7A 380 177 1660 64 460 235/55 R17   9.05 210 13.5     NA NA
Q5
For: Performance, refined diesel engine. Against: Price. Verdict: Scaled down Q7, makes sense.
Alternatives: 1. Volvo XC60 2. Land Rover Discovery Sport 3. BMW X3 4. Mercedes-Benz ML-Class
30 TDI quattro Premium 49.45* 1968/4 7A 380 177 1820 75 540 235/65 R17   9.6 200 12.8     Feb 13 11111
30 TDI quattro Technology 56.02* 1968/4 7A 380 177 1820 75 540 235/65 R17   9.6 200 12.8     NA NA
45 TDI quattro Technology 62.95* 2967/6 7A 580 245 1860 75 540 235/65 R17   7.25 225 9.0     Mar 14 11111
Q7
For: Size, performance. Against: Price. Verdict: If size matters, then the Q7 has to be the choice.
Alternatives: 1. Mercedes-Benz GL-Class 2. Volvo XC90 3. BMW X5
35 TDI quattro Premium 64.35* 2967/6 8A 550 245 2345 100 775 255/55 R18   9.15 216 9.5     NA NA
35 TDI quattro Technology 79.71* 2967/6 8A 550 245 2375 100 775 265/50 R19   9.15 216 9.5     Sep 09 11112

GBU
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)

TRACTION CONTROL
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ECONOMY (IN KM/L)
POWER WINDOWS
BRAKING SYSTEM
(IN LAKH RUPEES)
OVERALL RATING
CUBIC CAPACITY
ALLOY WHEELS
MUSIC SYSTEM
AVERAGE FUEL
NO. OF GEARS
(C/CYLINDERS)
KERB WEIGHT
MODEL NAME
MAX TORQUE
BOOT SPACE
MAX POWER
ANTI-LOCK
(IN LITRES)
(IN LITRES)
TYRE SIZE
AIRBAGS
TESTED
(IN Nm)
(IN KG)
(IN PS)
PRICE
BENTLEY
CONTINENTAL GT
For: A Bentley with Le Mans heritage. Against: Price, service back-up. Verdict: Makes the rest of the range look pre-historic.
Alternatives: 1. Aston Martin DB9 2. Ferrari FF
GT V8 325.89* 3993/8 8A 660 507 2295 90 358 275/40 R20   NA 303 NA     NA NA
GT V8 S 351.04* 3993/8 8A 680 528 2295 90 358 275/40 R20   NA 309 NA     NA NA
GT 353.85* 5998/12 8A 720 590 2320 90 358 275/40 R20   NA 319 NA     NA NA
GT Speed 399.43* 5998/12 8A 820 635 2320 90 358 275/35 ZR21   NA 331 NA     NA NA
GTC V8 360.36* 3993/8 8A 660 507 2470 90 260 275/40 R20   NA 301 NA     NA NA
GTC V8 S BO 3993/8 8A 680 528 2470 90 260 275/40 R20   NA 308 NA     NA NA
GTC 387.40* 5998/12 8A 720 590 2495 90 260 275/40 R20   NA 314 NA     NA NA
GTC Speed BO 5998/12 8A 820 635 2495 90 260 275/35 ZR21   NA 327 NA     NA NA
FLYING SPUR
For: Fast and agile for a 2.5-tonne car. Against: Price, service back-up. Verdict: A really fast saloon.
Alternatives: 1. Rolls-Royce Ghost 2. Aston Martin Rapide S 3. Audi A8 L W12 4. Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Flying Spur V8 310.00* 3993/8 8A 660 507 2450 90 475 275/45 R19   NA NA NA     NA NA
Flying Spur W12 340.00* 5998/12 8A 800 625 2475 90 475 275/45 R19   NA NA NA     NA NA
MULSANNE
For: Luxury, opulence, exclusivity. Against: Price, service back-up. Verdict: If you ever wanted to experience locomotive torque...
Alternatives: 1. Rolls-Royce Phantom
Mulsanne 553.53* 6752/8 8A 1020 512 2685 96 443 265/45 R20   NA NA NA     NA NA
Mulsanne Speed 599.03* 6752/8 8A 1100 537 2685 96 443 265/45 R20   NA 296 NA     NA NA
BMW
1 SERIES
For: Fun to drive, spacious, rear-wheel drive. Against: Price. Verdict: If you want a BMW badge in your garage...
Alternatives: 1. Mercedes-Benz A-Class 2. Audi A3 3. Volvo V40
118d Sport 29.50* 1995/4 8A 320 143 1420 43 NA 225/45 R17   9.51 187 11.0     Nov 13 11111
3 SERIES
For: Performance, fuel efficiency. Against: Ride quality. Verdict: If you are looking for performance, look no further.
Alternatives: 1. Audi A4 2. Volvo S60 3. Mercedes-Benz C-Class
320d Prestige 34.90* 1995/4 8A 380 184 1495 57 480 225/55 R16   8.03 235 13.5     NA NA
320d Luxury 38.90* 1995/4 8A 380 184 1490 57 480 225/50 R17   8.03 235 13.5     Aug 12 11111
M3 117.00* 2979/6 7A 550 431 1595 60 480 275/40 ZR18   NA 250 NA     NA NA
3 SERIES GRAN TURISMO

For: Refinement, usablability, space, big boot. Against: Down on thrills, price. Verdict: A practical, fun and exclusive car.
Alternatives: 1. Audi A4 2. Volvo S60 3. Mercedes-Benz C-Class
320d GT Sport 39.90* 1995/4 8A 380 184 1640 60 520 225/50 R18   9.05 208 13.25     NA NA
320d GT Luxury 42.90* 1995/4 8A 380 184 1640 60 520 225/50 R18   9.05 208 13.25     Jul 14 11111
4 SERIES
For: The sportier 3 Series with two doors less. Against: Price. Verdict: The present-day M3 Coupé.
Alternatives: 1. Audi RS 5
M4 Coupé 119.00* 2979/6 7A 550 431 1612 60 445 275/40 ZR18   NA 250 NA     NA NA

AUDI BMW
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)

TRACTION CONTROL
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ECONOMY (IN KM/L)
POWER WINDOWS
BRAKING SYSTEM
(IN LAKH RUPEES)
OVERALL RATING
CUBIC CAPACITY
(CC/CYLINDERS)
ALLOY WHEELS
MUSIC SYSTEM
AVERAGE FUEL
NO. OF GEARS
KERB WEIGHT
MODEL NAME
MAX TORQUE
BOOT SPACE
MAX POWER
ANTI-LOCK
(IN LITRES)
(IN LITRES)
TYRE SIZE
AIRBAGS
TESTED
(IN Nm)
(IN KG)
(IN PS)
PRICE
5 SERIES
For: Performance, driving pleasure. Against: Price. Verdict: Refined mile-muncher.
Alternatives: 1. Audi A6 2. Mercedes-Benz E-Class 3. Jaguar XF 4. Volvo S80
520d Prestige Plus 44.90* 1995/4 8A 400 190 1695 70 520 225/55 R17   NA 234 NA     NA NA
520d Luxury 49.90* 1995/4 8A 400 190 1700 70 520 245/45 R18   NA 234 NA     NA NA
530d M Sport 59.90* 2993/6 8A 540 258 1785 70 520 275/40 R18   6.21 250 10.0     Jan 14 11111
M5 130.00* 4395/8 7A 680 560 1945 80 NA 295/35 R19   5.9 250 3.3     Nov 12 11111
6 SERIES GRAN COUPÉ

For: One of the most beautiful four-door coupés. Against: Price. Verdict: Still an unmatched style statement.
Alternatives: 1. Audi RS 7 2. Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
640d Eminence 110.00* 2993/6 8A 630 313 1865 70 NA 275/35 R19   5.7 250 10.0     Jan 13 11111
640d DPE 117.00* 2993/6 8A 630 313 1865 70 NA 275/35 R19   5.7 250 10.0     NA NA
M6 Gran Coupé 171.00* 4395/8 7A 680 560 1950 70 NA 295/30 ZR20   NA NA NA     NA NA
7 SERIES
For: Loaded with cutting-edge technology. Against: Price. Verdict: More stylish and more capable than its predecessor.
Alternatives: 1. Mercedes-Benz S-Class 2. Audi A8 3. Jaguar XJ
730Ld Prestige 92.50* 2993/6 8A 560 258 1975 80 500 245/50 R18   7.3 250 9.1     NA NA
730Ld Signature 125.20* 2993/6 8A 560 258 1975 80 500 245/50 R18   7.3 250 9.1     Jul 13 11111
ActiveHybrid 7L 141.00* 2979/6 8A 500 354 2045 80 500 245/50 R18   NA 250 NA     NA NA
750Li 145.90* 4395/8 8A 650 450 2055 82 500 275/40 R19   6.6 250 6.2     Feb 11 11111
760Li 194.90* 5972/12 8A 750 544 2250 82 500 275/40 R19   NA 250 NA     NA NA
Z4
For: Performance, fun factor. Against: Nothing, really. Verdict: A mature sportscar for two.
Alternatives: 1. Mercedes SLK-Class 2. Porsche Boxster
sDrive 35i Prestige 72.90* 2979/6 7A 400 306 1600 55 310 255/35 R18   6.63 250 5.88     NA NA
sDrive 35i DPT 73.90* 2979/6 7A 400 306 1600 55 310 255/35 R18   6.63 250 5.88     Feb 14 11111
i8
For: Style, efficiency, feel, performance. Against: Price. Verdict: The future of BMW on sale today.
Alternatives: None
i8 Coupé 229.00* 1499/3 6A 570 362 1490 NA NA 215/45 R20   NA 250 NA     NA NA
X1
For: Price, fuel efficiency. Against: Stiff ride, tight fit for four. Verdict: One of the easiest ways to get into the BMW family.
Alternatives: 1. Audi Q3 2. Volvo V40 Cross Country 3. Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class 4. MINI Cooper Countryman
sDrive 20d xLine 37.90* 1995/4 8 380 184 1565 61 420 225/50 R17   8.8 200 12.87     Mar 13 11112
X3
For: Performance, rear leg-room. Against: Price, doesn’t handle like a BMW. Verdict: A big improvement, but not quite there.
Alternatives: 1. Audi Q5 2. Volvo XC60 3. Land Rover Discovery Sport
xDrive 20d Expedition 46.90* 1995/4 8A 400 190 1715 67 NA 225/60 R17   9.56 210 10.6     NA NA
xDrive 20d xLine 51.90* 1995/4 8A 400 190 1715 67 NA 245/50 R18   9.56 210 10.6     NA NA
xDrive 30d M Sport 59.90* 2993/6 8A 560 258 1895 67 NA 245/50 R18   NA 210 NA     NA NA
X5
For: Wieldy, handsome, brisk. Against: Third row space very limited. Verdict: A good all-round SUV.
Alternatives: 1. Volvo XC90 2. Audi Q7 3. Mercedes-Benz ML-Class 4. Land Rover Discovery
xDrive 30d Expedition 65.90* 2993/6 8A 560 258 2145 85 650 255/55 R18   7.15 230 7.63     NA NA
xDrive 30d DPE 5-st 69.50* 2993/6 8A 560 258 2145 85 650 255/55 R18   7.15 230 7.63     NA NA
xDrive 30d DPE 7-st 72.90* 2993/6 8A 560 258 2145 85 650 255/55 R18   7.15 230 7.63     Jul 14 11111

GBU
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)

TRACTION CONTROL
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ECONOMY (IN KM/L)
POWER WINDOWS
BRAKING SYSTEM
(IN LAKH RUPEES)
OVERALL RATING
CUBIC CAPACITY
ALLOY WHEELS
MUSIC SYSTEM
AVERAGE FUEL
NO. OF GEARS
(C/CYLINDERS)
KERB WEIGHT
MODEL NAME
MAX TORQUE
BOOT SPACE
MAX POWER
ANTI-LOCK
(IN LITRES)
(IN LITRES)
TYRE SIZE
AIRBAGS
TESTED
(IN Nm)
(IN KG)
(IN PS)
PRICE
X6
For: Road presence. Against: Rear space, seats only four. Verdict: Radical design is an attention magnet.
Alternatives: 1. Porsche Macan 2. Land Rover Range Rover Sport
xDrive 40d M Sport 115.00* 2993/6 8A 630 313 2110 85 580 285/40 R19   NA 240 NA     NA NA
DATSUN
GO
For: Space, efficiency, price. Against: Safety, especially for rear occupants, NVH levels. Verdict: Good buy for the price, but
safety has been utterly compromised. Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki Alto 2. Hyundai Eon
1.2 P D 3.82 1198/3 5 104 68 790 35 265 155/70 R13 - - 14.13 156.3 14.25 - - - - NA NA
1.2 P T 4.76 1198/3 5 104 68 810 35 265 155/70 R13 - - 14.13 156.3 14.25 F  - - May 14 1112
1.2 P NXT 4.76 1198/3 5 104 68 810 35 265 155/70 R13 - - 14.13 156.3 14.25 F  - - NA NA
GO+
For: Space, efficiency, price. Against: Safety, boot space, NVH levels. Verdict: Seven-seater with limited boot space.
Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki Ertiga 2. Honda Mobilio
1.2 P D 4.46 1198/3 5 104 68 NA 35 48 155/70 R13 - - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA
1.2 P T 5.47 1198/3 5 104 68 NA 35 48 155/70 R13 - - NA NA NA F  - - NA NA
FERRARI
CALIFORNIA T
For: The first step to the prancing horse. Against: Price. Verdict: Extremely capable and stylish grand-tourer.
Alternatives: 1. Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet 2. Aston Martin V8 Vantage Roadster
California T 330.00* 3855/8 7A 755 560 1729 78 240 285/40 ZR19   NA 316 NA     NA NA
458
For: That engine. Against: Price, it's gone too soon. Verdict: Will go down in history as one of the finest sports cars of all time.
Alternatives: 1. Lamborghini Huracán 2. Porsche 911 GT3 RS 3. Aston Martin V12 Vantage S
458 Spider 407.00* 4499/8 7A 540 570 1535 86 230 295/35 ZR20   NA 320 NA     NA NA
458 Speciale 425.00* 4499/8 7A 540 605 1395 86 230 305/30 ZR20   NA 325 NA     NA NA
488 GTB
For: Turbo engine's comeback. Against: Price. Verdict: Borderline hypercar power in a compact package.
Alternatives: 1. Lamborghini Huracán 2. Aston Martin V12 Vantage S
488 GTB 384.00* 3902/8 7A 760 670 1475 78 230 305/30 ZR20   NA 330 NA     NA NA
FF
For: Those two extra seats. Against: Those two gearboxes, price. Verdict: The only AWD Ferrari for four on sale.
Alternatives: 1. Bentley Continental GT Speed 2. Rolls-Royce Wraith
FF 457.00* 6262/12 7A 683 660 1880 91 450 295/35 R20   NA NA NA     NA NA
F12BERLINETTA
For: Monstrous power. Against: Monstrous price. Verdict: The essential Ferrari; armed to the tooth with cutting-edge tech.
Alternatives: 1. Lamborghini Aventador 2. Aston Martin Vanquish
F12berlinetta 472.00* 6262/12 7A 690 740 1525 92 320 315/35 ZR20   NA 340 NA     NA NA

BMW FORCE MOTORS
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)

TRACTION CONTROL
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ECONOMY (IN KM/L)
POWER WINDOWS
BRAKING SYSTEM
(IN LAKH RUPEES)
OVERALL RATING
CUBIC CAPACITY
(CC/CYLINDERS)
ALLOY WHEELS
MUSIC SYSTEM
AVERAGE FUEL
NO. OF GEARS
KERB WEIGHT
MODEL NAME
MAX TORQUE
BOOT SPACE
MAX POWER
ANTI-LOCK
(IN LITRES)
(IN LITRES)
TYRE SIZE
AIRBAGS
TESTED
(IN Nm)
(IN KG)
(IN PS)
PRICE
FIAT
PUNTO EVO
For: Looks, value for money. Against: Rear seat, fit and finish. Verdict: Good-looking and fun to drive hatch.
Alternatives: 1. Volkswagen Polo 2. Hyundai Elite i20 3. Toyota Etios Liva
1.2 FIRE P Active 5.33 1172/4 5 96 68 1090 45 280 165/80 R14 - - 18.3 154.2 10.7  -  - Nov 09 1112
1.2 FIRE P Dynamic 5.98 1172/4 5 96 68 1090 45 280 165/80 R14 -  18.3 154.2 10.7  -  - NA NA
1.4 FIRE P Emotion 7.75 1368/4 5 115 90 1115 45 280 195/60 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
MultiJet D Active 6.15 1248/4 5 197 76 1130 45 280 165/80 R14 - - 17.5 154.5 18.9  - - - NA NA
MultiJet D Emotion 7.95 1248/4 5 197 76 1130 45 280 195/60 R15 -  17.5 154.5 18.9     Aug 09 11112
MultiJet D Sport 93 8.37 1248/4 5 209 93 1144 45 280 195/60 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
AVVENTURA
For: Style, ride quality, comfort, equipment. Against: Turbo lag (diesel). Verdict: Butch crossover with hatchback practicality.
Alternatives: 1. Volkswagen Cross Polo 2. Hyundai i20 Active 3. Toyota Etios Cross
FIRE 90 Active 6.14* 1368/4 5 115 90 1190 45 280 205/55 R16 - - NA NA NA  - -  NA NA
FIRE 90 Dynamic 7.24* 1368/4 5 115 90 1195 45 280 205/55 R16 - - NA NA NA  -   NA NA
MultiJet 90 Active 7.07* 1248/4 5 209 93 1240 45 280 205/55 R16 - - NA NA 16.0  - -  NA NA
MultiJet 90 Emotion 8.41* 1248/4 5 209 93 1255 45 280 205/55 R16 -  17.04 156.8 16.0     Nov 14 11112
500
For: Style, performance, heritage. Against: Price. Verdict: Contemporary take on an Italian icon.
Alternatives: 1. MINI Cooper S
Abarth 595 Competizione 29.85* 1368/4 6A 230 160 1035 35 185 205/40 R17   NA 210 NA     NA NA
LINEA
For: Looks, equipment. Against: Engine feels breathless at high revs, rear space. Verdict: Elegant and practical at the same time.
Alternatives: 1. Ford Fiesta 2. Honda City 3. Volkswagen Vento
Classic 1.4 FIRE P 6.81 1368/4 5 115 90 1180 45 500 175/65 R14 - - 13.9 170 12.3  - - - NA NA
Classic MultiJet D 8.10 1248/4 5 197 76 1210 45 500 175/70 R14 - - 19.48 153.3 18.5  - - - NA NA
Classic MultiJet D Plus 8.73 1248/4 5 197 76 1210 45 500 175/70 R14 -  19.48 153.3 18.5  -  - Jan 14 1111
1.4 FIRE P Active 8.14 1368/4 5 115 90 1180 45 500 195/60 R15 - - 13.9 170 12.3  -  - NA NA
1.4 FIRE P Dynamic 9.26 1368/4 5 115 90 1180 45 500 195/60 R15 -  13.9 170 12.3     Mar 09 11112
T-Jet P Active 8.80 1368/4 5 207 114 1230 45 500 195/60 R15 -  NA NA NA  -  - NA NA
T-Jet P Emotion 10.24 1368/4 5 207 114 1230 45 500 205/55 R16 -  12.5 173.5 11.25     Apr 14 NA
MultiJet D Active 9.54 1248/4 5 209 93 1210 45 500 195/60 R15 - - 11.8 168 16.3  -  - NA NA
MultiJet D Emotion 11.11 1248/4 5 209 93 1210 45 500 205/55 R16 -  11.8 168 16.3     Jan 09 11112
FORCE MOTORS
FORCE ONE
For: Space, Mercedes drivetrain. Against: Upgrade still doesn’t offer airbags.
Verdict: Spacious and rugged. Alternatives: 1. Mahindra XUV500
EX BS III 11.13 2596/4 5 230 82 NA 70 NA 235/70 R16 - - NA NA NA  - - - NA NA
SX 2.2 7-str 14.80 2149/4 5 321 141 NA 70 NA 235/70 R16 -  15.5 162 9.12  -   Dec 11 1112
SX 2.2 6-str 14.88 2149/4 5 321 141 NA 70 NA 235/70 R16 -  15.5 162 9.12  -   Dec 11 1112
LX 2.2 4x4 16.71 2149/4 5 321 141 NA 70 NA 245/70 R16 -  NA NA NA  -   NA NA
GURKHA
For: Off-road ability. Against: On-road ability. Verdict: All the off-roader one would ever need, and at a decent price too.
Alternatives: 1. Mahindra Thar
Soft Top 4x2 7.49 2596/4 5 230 82 NA 63 NA 235/70 R16 - - NA NA NA  -   NA NA
Soft Top 4x4 9.94 2596/4 5 230 82 NA 63 NA 245/70 R16 - - NA NA NA  -   NA NA
Hard Top 4x4 10.12 2596/4 5 230 82 1460 63 NA 245/70 R16 - - NA NA NA  -   NA NA

GBU
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)

TRACTION CONTROL
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ECONOMY (IN KM/L)
POWER WINDOWS
BRAKING SYSTEM
(IN LAKH RUPEES)
OVERALL RATING
CUBIC CAPACITY
ALLOY WHEELS
MUSIC SYSTEM
AVERAGE FUEL
NO. OF GEARS
(C/CYLINDERS)
KERB WEIGHT
MODEL NAME
MAX TORQUE
BOOT SPACE
MAX POWER
ANTI-LOCK
(IN LITRES)
(IN LITRES)
TYRE SIZE
AIRBAGS
TESTED
(IN Nm)
(IN KG)
(IN PS)
PRICE
FORD
FIGO ASPIRE
For: Styling, practicality, equipment. Against: Petrol 1.2 needs more punch. Verdict: Exciting new compact sedan.
Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki Swift DZire 2. Honda Amaze 3. Hyundai Xcent 4. Chevrolet Sail
1.2 Ambiente (P) 4.90* 1196/4 5 112 88 NA 42 359 175/65 R14 - - NA NA NA F  - - NA NA
1.2 Titanium+ (P) 7.25* 1196/4 5 112 88 NA 42 359 175/65 R14 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
1.5 Titanium A/T (P) 7.80* 1499/4 6A 136 112 NA 42 359 175/65 R14   NA NA NA     NA NA
1.5 TDCi Ambiente 5.90* 1498/4 5 215 100 NA 40 359 175/65 R14 - - NA NA NA F - - - NA NA
1.5 TDCi Titanium+ 8.25* 1498/4 5 215 100 NA 40 359 175/65 R14 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
ECOSPORT
For: Trendsetter, first sub-4 metre SUV, benchmark turbo-petrol engine. Against: Space. Verdict: Good, fun urban SUV.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Creta 2. Toyota Etios Cross 3. Volkswagen Cross Polo 4. Renault Duster
1.5 Ambiente (P) 7.95 1499/4 5 140 112 1200 71 364 195/65 R15 - - NA NA NA F -  - NA NA
1.5 Titanium (P) 10.17 1499/4 5 140 112 1200 71 364 205/60 R16 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
1.5 Titanium A/T (P) 11.41 1499/4 6A 140 112 1268 71 364 205/60 R16 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
EcoBoost Titanium (P) 10.65 999/3 5 170 125 1259 71 364 205/60 R16 -  12.2 181.7 12.75     NA NA
EcoBoost Titanium O (P) 11.32 999/3 5 170 125 1259 71 364 205/60 R16 -  12.2 181.7 12.75     Dec 13 11112
1.5 TDCi Ambiente 9.43 1498/4 5 204 91 1248 71 364 195/65 R15 - - 14.1 165.9 NA F -  - NA NA
1.5 TDCi Titanium O 12.28 1498/4 5 204 91 1290 71 364 205/60 R16 -  14.1 165.9 NA     Jun 13 11112
GENERAL MOTORS
SPARK
For: Refined, efficient and frugal engine, great cabin and ride. Against: Gearbox could have been better.
Verdict: A great compact car with hardly any flaws. Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 2. Hyundai Grand i10 3. Tata Indica Xeta
1.0 4.29 995/4 5 90 63 1075 38 NA 155/70 R13 - - 16.0 152 15.97 - - - - NA NA
1.0 LT 4.96 995/4 5 90 63 1095 38 NA 155/70 R13 - - 16.0 152 15.97  -  - May 07 11112
BEAT
For: Price, good value for money, looks. Against: Fuel efficiency, no remote locking system.
Verdict: Sporty to drive with futuristic looks. Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki Ritz 2. Hyundai Grand i10 3. Honda Brio
1.2 PS 5.02 1199/4 5 108 80.5 965 35 170 155/70 R14 - - 14.2 157.2 13.63 - - - - NA NA
1.2 LT (O) 6.43 1199/4 5 108 80.5 965 35 170 155/70 R13 - - 14.2 157.2 13.63  -  - Feb 10 1111
1.0 TCDi PS 6.04 936/3 5 150 58.5 1027 35 170 165/65 R14 - - 22.5 148.5 NA  - - - NA NA
1.0 TCDi LT (O) 7.47 936/3 5 150 58.5 1027 35 170 165/65 R14 - - 22.5 148.5 NA    O Aug 11 1111
SAIL HATCHBACK
For: Interior space. Against: Performance fails to excite. Verdict: A good city car with good amount of space
Alternatives: 1. FIAT Punto Evo 2. Ford Figo 3. Hyundai Grand i10
1.2 5.55 1199/4 5 113 86 1065 42 248 175/70 R14 - - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA
1.2 LT ABS 7.21 1199/4 5 113 86 1065 42 248 175/70 R14 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
1.3 TCDi 6.75 1248/4 5 205 78 1124 42 248 175/70 R14 - - 16.56 163 15.25 - - - - NA NA
1.3 TCDi LT ABS 8.51 1248/4 5 205 78 1124 42 248 175/70 R14 -  16.56 163 15.25     Jan 13 11112
SAIL
For: Price, interior space. Against: Performance. Verdict: A spacious and comfortable sedan.
Alternatives: 1. Honda Amaze 2. Maruti Suzuki Swift DZire 3. Tata Zest
1.2 6.53 1199/4 5 113 86 1065 42 370 175/70 R14 - - 15.9 161 10.0 - - - - NA NA
1.2 LT ABS 8.11 1199/4 5 113 86 1065 42 370 175/70 R14 -  15.9 161 10.0     Feb 13 1111
1.3 TCDi LS 8.00 1248/4 5 205 78 1124 42 370 175/70 R14 - - 17.3 NA 15.25 - - - - NA NA
1.3 TCDi LT ABS 9.54 1248/4 5 205 78 1124 42 370 175/70 R14 -  17.3 NA 15.25     Feb 13 1111

FORD HONDA
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)

TRACTION CONTROL
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ECONOMY (IN KM/L)
POWER WINDOWS
BRAKING SYSTEM
(IN LAKH RUPEES)
OVERALL RATING
CUBIC CAPACITY
(CC/CYLINDERS)
ALLOY WHEELS
MUSIC SYSTEM
AVERAGE FUEL
NO. OF GEARS
KERB WEIGHT
MODEL NAME
MAX TORQUE
BOOT SPACE
MAX POWER
ANTI-LOCK
(IN LITRES)
(IN LITRES)
TYRE SIZE
AIRBAGS
TESTED
(IN Nm)
(IN KG)
(IN PS)
PRICE
CRUZE
For: Diesel engine, performance, interior. Against: Turbo lag. Verdict: Has got the right ingredients to be a great seller for GM.
Alternatives: 1. Skoda Octavia 2. Toyota Corolla Altis 3. Hyundai Elantra
LT 17.26 1991/4 6 380 166 NA 60 450 205/60 R16 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
LTZ 19.12 1991/4 6 380 166 NA 60 450 205/60 R16 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
LTZ AT 20.38 1991/4 6A 380 166 NA 60 450 205/60 R16 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
ENJOY
For: Space, handling, good alternative to the Ertiga. Against: Feels underpowered. Verdict: Good family car.
Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki Ertiga 2. Renault Lodgy 3. Mahindra Quanto
1.4 LS-8 7.41 1399/4 5 131 102 1260 50 NA 175/70 R14 - - 15.03 168.2 NA  - - - NA NA
1.4 LTZ-7 9.12 1399/4 5 131 102 1260 50 NA 175/70 R14 -  15.03 168.2 NA     May 13 1111
1.3 TCDi LS-8 8.94 1248/4 5 173 75 1345 50 NA 175/70 R14 - - 20.73 150.3 NA  - - - NA NA
1.3 TCDi LTZ-7 10.39 1248/4 5 173 75 1345 50 NA 175/70 R14 -  20.73 150.3 NA     May 13 1111
CAPTIVA
For: Punchy, refined and efficient engine, looks. Against: Gearbox, low-rev response could be better.
Verdict: A diesel alternative to the CR-V. Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Santa Fe 2. Honda CR-V
2.2 LT MT FWD 30.76 2231/4 6 400 186.5 1881 65 465 235/65 R17   NA NA NA     NA NA
2.2 LTZ AT AWD 33.48 2231/4 6A 400 186.5 1981 65 465 235/65 R17   NA NA NA     NA NA
HINDUSTAN MOTORS
MITSUBISHI PAJERO SPORT
For: Pedigree, chassis, reliability. Against: Interior, price. Verdict: A very competent off-roader.
Alternatives: 1. Toyota Fortuner 2. Chevrolet Captiva 3. Isuzu MU-7
2.5 DI-D 4x4 MT 25.28* 2477/4 5 400 178 2040 70 NA 265/65 R17   13.5 178.1 10.62     May 12 1111
2.5 DI-D 4x2 AT 24.98* 2477/4 5A 350 178 1935 70 NA 265/65 R17   NA NA NA     NA NA
HONDA
BRIO
For: Engine refinement, fuel efficiency. Against: Boot space. Verdict: An overall value-for-money package.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai i10 2. Maruti Suzuki Ritz 3. Chevrolet Beat 4. Toyota Etios Liva
i-VTEC E MT 4.94 1198/4 5 109 88 920 35 NA 175/65 R14 - - 13.03 141 20.0  - - - NA NA
i-VTEC VX BL AVN MT 7.01 1198/4 5 109 88 930 35 NA 175/65 R14 -  13.03 141 20.0     NA NA
i-VTEC VX AT 7.38 1198/4 5A 109 88 970 35 NA 175/65 R14 -  16.3 140 12.62     Dec 12 11112
i-VTEC VX BL AVN AT 7.93 1198/4 5A 109 88 970 35 NA 175/65 R14 -  16.3 140 12.62     NA NA
AMAZE
For: Interior space and fuel efficiency. Against: Quality of interiors. Verdict: A new benchmark in the sub four-metre category.
Alternatives: 1. Ford Figo Aspire 2. Maruti Suzuki Swift DZire 3. Hyundai Xcent 4. Toyota Etios
i-VTEC (P) E 6.22 1198/4 5 109 88 940 35 400 175/65 R14 - - 13.03 141.4 20.0  - - - NA NA
i-VTEC (P) VX (O) MT 8.75 1198/4 5 109 88 950 35 400 175/65 R14 -  13.03 141.4 20.0     Sep 13 11111
i-VTEC (P+CNG) S+ 7.51 1198/4 5 109 88 NA 35 NA 175/65 R14 - - NA NA NA  -  - NA NA
i-VTEC (P) S AT 8.32 1198/4 5A 109 88 990 35 400 175/65 R14 -  NA NA NA  -  - NA NA
i-VTEC (P) VX AT 9.29 1198/4 5A 109 88 995 35 400 175/65 R14 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
i-DTEC (D) E 7.52 1498/4 5 200 100 1045 35 400 175/65 R14 -  11.3 191.3 21.5  - - - NA NA
i-DTEC (D) VX (O) 9.71 1498/4 5 200 100 1055 35 400 175/65 R14 -  11.3 191.3 21.5     May 13 11111

GBU
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)

TRACTION CONTROL
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ECONOMY (IN KM/L)
POWER WINDOWS
BRAKING SYSTEM
(IN LAKH RUPEES)
OVERALL RATING
CUBIC CAPACITY
ALLOY WHEELS
MUSIC SYSTEM
AVERAGE FUEL
NO. OF GEARS
(C/CYLINDERS)
KERB WEIGHT
MODEL NAME
MAX TORQUE
BOOT SPACE
MAX POWER
ANTI-LOCK
(IN LITRES)
(IN LITRES)
TYRE SIZE
AIRBAGS
TESTED
(IN Nm)
(IN KG)
(IN PS)
PRICE
JAZZ
For: Interior, comfort, ride quality. Against: Not much, except a bit of engine noise (diesel). Verdict: Good all-rounder.
Alternatives: 1. Volkswagen Polo GT 2. Hyundai Elite i20 3. FIAT Punto Evo
i-VTEC (P) E MT 6.26 1198/4 5 110 90 1007 40 354 175/65 R15 - - NA NA NA    - NA NA
i-VTEC (P) VX MT 8.58 1497/4 5 110 90 1044 40 354 175/65 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
i-VTEC (P) S CVT 8.23 1497/4 CVT 110 90 1066 40 354 175/65 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
i-VTEC (P) V CVT 9.24 1497/4 CVT 110 90 1066 40 354 175/65 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
i-DTEC (D) E 7.65 1498/4 6 200 100 1120 40 354 175/65 R15 - - 12.84 166.9 20.5  - - - NA NA
i-DTEC (D) VX 10.11 1498/4 6 200 100 1155 40 354 175/65 R15 -  12.84 166.9 20.5     Sep 15 11112
CITY
For: Punchy engine, class-leading interior, equipment levels. Against: High-speed stability. Verdict: Exceptional combination of
unmatched performance and fuel-efficiency. Alternatives: 1. Skoda Rapid 2. Volkswagen Vento 3. Ford Fiesta 4. FIAT Linea
i-VTEC (P) E MT 8.75 1497/4 5 145 119 1029 40 510 175/65 R15 -  10.2 194 17.0    - NA NA
i-VTEC (P) VX(O) MT 11.96 1497/4 5 145 119 1065 40 510 175/65 R15 -  10.2 194 17.0     Mar 14 11112
i-VTEC (P) SV CVT 11.36 1497/4 CVT 145 119 1070 40 510 175/65 R15 -  11.3 169.3 14.2    - NA NA
i-VTEC (P) VX CVT 13.21 1497/4 CVT 145 119 1085 40 510 175/65 R15 -  11.3 169.3 14.2     Mar 14 11112
i-DTEC (D) E 10.14 1498/4 6 200 100 1125 40 510 175/65 R15 -  10.49 175.6 19.5    - NA NA
i-DTEC (D) VX(O) 13.68 1498/4 6 200 100 1165 40 510 175/65 R15 -  10.49 175.6 19.5     Feb 14 11112
MOBILIO
For: Space, ergonomics, efficiency, practicality. Against: Interior elements could be better. Verdict: Extremely practical everyday car.
Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki Ertiga 2. Renault Lodgy 3. Toyota Innova
i-VTEC (P) E 7.80 1497/4 5 145 119 1131 42 NA 185/65 R15 - - 12.18 151.73 13.9  - - - NA NA
i-VTEC (P) V(O) 11.09 1497/4 5 145 119 1161 42 NA 185/65 R15 -  12.18 151.73 13.9     Nov 14 11112
i-DTEC (D) E 9.46 1498/4 5 200 100 1214 42 NA 185/65 R15 -  14.08 159.06 17.5  - - - NA NA
i-DTEC (D) V(O) 12.56 1498/4 5 200 100 1246 42 NA 185/65 R15 -  14.08 159.06 17.5     Oct 14 11112
i-DTEC (D) RS(O) 13.85 1498/4 5 200 100 1246 42 NA 185/65 R15 -  14.08 159.06 17.5     NA NA
CR-V
For: Car-like driving experience, comfort. Against: Price. Verdict: A great SUV just got better.
Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara 2. Chevrolet Captiva 3. Mitsubishi Pajero Sport
2.0 MT 24.92 1997/4 6 190 156 1470 58 NA 225/65 R17 -  12.2 NA 9.0     Jun 13 11112
2.0 AT 26.98 1997/4 5A 190 156 1500 58 NA 225/65 R17 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
2.4 AT 4x4 AVN 29.60 2354/4 5A 226 190 1600 58 NA 225/65 R17 -  12.17 NA 7.87     Jul 13 11112
HYUNDAI
EON
For: For: Modern design, space, quality of interiors, fit & finish. Against: Steering feel. Verdict: Ready to take on the Alto.
Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki Alto 2. Datsun Go 3. Chevrolet Spark
D-Lite 3.67 814/3 5 74.5 56 725 32 215 145/80 R12 - - 18.62 132.2 17.75 - - - - NA NA
Sportz 4.87 814/3 5 74.5 56 725 32 215 155/70 R13 - - 18.62 132.2 17.75 F   - Dec 11 1111
Era+ LPG 4.45 814/3 5 74.5 56 NA 32 NA 145/80 R12 - - 18.62 132.2 NA - - - - NA NA
Magna+ LPG 4.85 814/3 5 74.5 56 NA 32 NA 155/70 R13 - - 18.62 132.2 NA F - - - NA NA
1.0 Kappa Magna+ 4.85 998/3 5 94 69 NA 32 215 155/70 R13 - - NA NA NA F - - - NA NA
1.0 Kappa Magna+(O) 5.03 998/3 5 94 69 NA 32 215 155/70 R13 - - NA NA NA F   - NA NA
i10
For: Great looks, interiors, gear shift, ride quality. Against: Fuel economy. Verdict: Best car to come out of the Hyundai stable.
Alternatives: 1. Chevrolet Beat 2. Maruti Suzuki Celerio 3. Nissan Micra
Era 4.89 1086/4 5 99 69 860 35 225 155/80 R13 - - 15.52 156.2 14.8  - - - Dec 07 11112
Sportz GLS 5.56 1086/4 5 99 69 860 35 225 155/80 R13 - - 15.52 156.2 14.8  - - - NA NA
Sportz GLS LPG 5.84 1086/4 5 99 69 860 35 218 155/80 R13 - - 15.52 156.2 NA  - - - NA NA

HONDA HYUNDAI
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)

TRACTION CONTROL
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ECONOMY (IN KM/L)
POWER WINDOWS
BRAKING SYSTEM
(IN LAKH RUPEES)
OVERALL RATING
CUBIC CAPACITY
(CC/CYLINDERS)
ALLOY WHEELS
MUSIC SYSTEM
AVERAGE FUEL
NO. OF GEARS
KERB WEIGHT
MODEL NAME
MAX TORQUE
BOOT SPACE
MAX POWER
ANTI-LOCK
(IN LITRES)
(IN LITRES)
TYRE SIZE
AIRBAGS
TESTED
(IN Nm)
(IN KG)
(IN PS)
PRICE
GRAND i10
For: Interior quality, space, practicality, handling, value for money. Against: Lack of top-end punch from the diesel engine.
Verdict: Very practical car in and out of town. Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki Ritz 2. Ford Figo 3. Nissan Micra 4. Renault Pulse
LPG 1.0 Magna 5.99 998/3 5 90 67 NA 34 256 165/65 R14 - - NA NA NA  -   NA NA
VTVT 1.2 Era 5.36 1197/4 5 114 83 NA 41 256 165/65 R14 - - 13.51 167.8 14.25 F - - - NA NA
VTVT 1.2 Asta O 6.63 1197/4 5 114 83 NA 41 256 165/65 R14 -  13.51 167.8 14.25     Apr 14 11112
VTVT 1.2 Asta AT 7.33 1197/4 4A 114 83 NA 41 256 165/65 R14 - - NA NA NA  -   NA NA
CRDi 1.1 Era 6.65 1120/4 5 160 71 NA 41 256 165/65 R14 - - 23.55 148.2 NA F - - - NA NA
CRDi 1.1 Asta O 8.14 1120/4 5 160 71 NA 41 256 165/65 R14 -  23.55 148.2 NA     Oct 13 11112
ELITE i20
For: Interior, equipment, ride quality, looks. Against: Underpowered petrol engine, turbo-lag in diesel engine, high-speed stability.
Verdict: One of the best looking hatches. Alternatives: 1. Volkswagen Polo 2. FIAT Punto Evo 3. Maruti Suzuki Swift
VTVT 1.2 Era 6.09 1197/4 5 115 83 NA 45 285 185/70 R14 - - NA NA NA  - - - NA NA
VTVT 1.2 Asta 7.97 1197/4 5 115 83 NA 45 285 195/55 R16 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
CRDi 1.4 Era 7.72 1396/4 6 220 90 NA 45 285 185/70 R14 - - 13.76 172.75 19.5  - - - NA NA
CRDi 1.4 Asta 9.62 1396/4 6 220 90 NA 45 285 195/55 R16 -  13.76 172.75 19.5     Oct 14 11112
i20 ACTIVE
For: Interior, equipment, ride height, practicality, looks. Against: Dynamics could be better. Verdict: Capable crossover conversion.
Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki S-Cross 2. Volkswagen Cross Polo 3. FIAT Avventura 4. Toyota Etios Cross
VTVT 1.2 7.30 1197/4 5 115 83 NA 45 285 185/65 R15 - - NA NA NA  - -  NA NA
VTVT 1.2 S 8.10 1197/4 5 115 83 NA 45 285 195/55 R16 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
CRDi 1.4 8.70 1396/4 6 220 90 NA 45 285 185/65 R15 - - 16.17 158.3 19.5  - -  NA NA
CRDi 1.4 SX 10.11 1396/4 6 220 90 NA 45 285 195/55 R16 -  16.17 158.3 19.5     May 15 11112
XCENT
For: Interior, equipment, NVH levels. Against: Feels underpowered, soft suspension. Verdict: A fitting replacement for the Accent.
Alternatives: 1. Honda Amaze 2. Maruti Suzuki DZire 3. Ford Figo Aspire 4. FIAT Linea Classic
VTVT 1.2 5.62 1197/4 5 114 83 NA 43 NA 165/65 R14 - - NA NA NA F - - - NA NA
VTVT 1.2 SX O 7.76 1197/4 5 114 83 NA 43 NA 175/60 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
VTVT 1.2 S O AT 7.53 1197/4 4A 114 83 NA 43 NA 165/65 R14 -  NA NA NA  -  - NA NA
VTVT 1.2 SX O AT 8.61 1197/4 4A 114 83 NA 43 NA 175/60 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
CRDi 1.1 6.68 1120/4 5 180 72 NA 43 NA 165/65 R14 - - 20.99 152.3 16.25 F - - - NA NA
CRDi 1.1 SX O 8.84 1120/4 5 180 72 NA 43 NA 175/60 R15 -  20.99 152.3 16.25     May 14 11112
VERNA 4S
For: Many available trim levels, equipment, fresh design. Against: Not much. Verdict: Value for money.
Alternatives: 1. Honda City 2. Volkswagen Vento 3. Skoda Rapid 4. FIAT Linea 5. Maruti-Suzuki Ciaz
VTVT 1.4 9.18 1396/4 5 136 107 NA 43 NA 185/65 R15 -  NA NA NA  -  - NA NA
VTVT 1.6 S (O) AT 12.03 1591/4 5 155 123 NA 43 NA 195/55 R16 -  11.48 192.7 13.5     Jun 11 1111
VTVT 1.6 SX 12.08 1591/4 4A 155 123 NA 43 NA 195/55 R16 -  NA NA NA  -  - NA NA
CRDi 1.4 10.67 1396/4 6 220 90 NA 43 NA 185/65 R15 -  NA NA NA  -  - NA NA
CRDi 1.6 SX 13.74 1582/4 6 260 128 1191 43 NA 195/55 R16 -  10.8 191 16.25     Jul 11 1111
CRDi 1.6 SX AT 14.56 1582/4 4A 260 128 NA 43 NA 195/55 R16 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
ELANTRA
For: Looks, equipment. Against: Handling at high speed. Verdict: One of the better looking cars in the segment.
Alternatives: 1. Skoda Octavia 2. Toyota Corolla Altis 3. Renault Fluence
VTVT 1.8 S 15.86 1797/4 6 178 150 1206 56 NA 205/60 R16 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
VTVT 1.8 SX AT 18.55 1797/4 6A 178 150 1225 56 NA 205/60 R16   NA NA NA     NA NA
CRDi 1.6 16.67 1582/4 6 260 128 NA 56 NA 205/60 R16 -  11.04 189 13.87     NA NA
CRDi 1.6 SX AT 20.29 1582/4 6A 260 128 NA 56 NA 205/60 R16   11.88 180.2 11.25     Dec 13 1111

GBU
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)

TRACTION CONTROL
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ECONOMY (IN KM/L)
POWER WINDOWS
BRAKING SYSTEM
(IN LAKH RUPEES)
OVERALL RATING
CUBIC CAPACITY
ALLOY WHEELS
MUSIC SYSTEM
AVERAGE FUEL
NO. OF GEARS
(C/CYLINDERS)
KERB WEIGHT
MODEL NAME
MAX TORQUE
BOOT SPACE
MAX POWER
ANTI-LOCK
(IN LITRES)
(IN LITRES)
TYRE SIZE
AIRBAGS
TESTED
(IN Nm)
(IN KG)
(IN PS)
PRICE
CRETA
For: Space, interior, practicality. Against: High-speed stability. Verdict: Capable as a city runabout and for a highway jaunt.
Alternatives: 1. Ford Ecosport 2. Maruti Suzuki S-Cross 3. Nissan Terrano 4. Mahindra XUV500
VTVT 1.6 10.11 1591/4 6 151 123 NA 55 NA 205/65 R16 - - NA NA NA  -  - NA NA
VTVT 1.6 SX+ 13.27 1591/4 6 151 123 NA 55 NA 205/65 R16 -  NA NA NA    - NA NA
CRDi 1.4 11.13 1396/4 6 220 90 NA 55 NA 205/65 R16 - - NA NA NA  -  - NA NA
CRDi 1.4 S+ 13.58 1396/4 6 220 90 NA 55 NA 205/65 R16 - - NA NA NA    - NA NA
CRDi 1.6 SX (O) 16.11 1582/4 6 260 128 NA 55 NA 215/60 R17   NA NA NA     NA NA
CRDi 1.6 SX+ AT 16.09 1582/4 6A 260 128 NA 55 NA 205/65 R16 -  12.04 160.17 11.12    - Aug 15 11112
SANTA FE
For: Feature-packed, engine. Against: Image, price. Verdict: Establishing Hyundai as a premium brand.
Alternatives: 1. Chevrolet Captiva 2. Toyota Fortuner 3. Mitsubishi Pajero Sport
CRDi 2WD 32.97 2199/4 6 420 197 1896 64 NA 235/60 R18 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
CRDi 2WD AT 34.39 2199/4 6A 436 197 1934 64 NA 235/60 R18 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
CRDi 4WD AT 36.95 2199/4 6A 436 197 2001 64 NA 235/60 R18   9.31 184 9.13     Apr 14 11112
ICML
EXTREME
For: Value for money, suspension. Against: Poor NVH levels, fit and finish, low end grunt. Verdict: Good MUV alternative.
Alternatives: 1. Tata Sumo 2. Mahindra Bolero 3. Chevrolet Tavera
LD CRD-Fi 9-seater 7.88* 1994/4 5 270 120 1738 50 NA 205/65 R15 - - NA NA NA  - - - NA NA
VD CRD-Fi 7-seater 9.28* 1994/4 5 270 120 1738 50 NA 205/65 R15 - - NA NA NA  -  - NA NA
ISUZU
MU-7
Alternatives: 1. Toyota Fortuner 2. Mitsubishi Pajero Sport
MU-7 19.99* 2999/4 5 360 163 1900 76 NA 245/70 R16 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
MU-7 AT 23.90* 2499/4 5A 333 163 NA 76 NA 245/70 R16 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
D-MAX
For: Value for money. Against: Bare bones equipment list. Verdict: First Japanese pick-up in India.
Alternatives: 1. Tata Xenon 2. Mahindra Scorpio Getaway
Space Cab 6.09* 2499/4 5 294 136 1655 76 NA 215/70 R15 - - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA
Space Cab Arch 6.99* 2499/4 5 294 136 1650 76 NA 215/70 R15 - - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA
JAGUAR
XF
For: Performance, looks, brand. Against: Space, service and availability, price. Verdict: A true British car with good looks.
Alternatives: 1. Mercedes-Benz E-Class 2. BMW 5 Series 3. Audi A6 4. Volvo S80
2.0i Petrol Luxury 64.66 1999/4 8A 340 240 1700 68 500 235/55 R17   8.68 250 8.12     Jun 14 11111
2.2d Executive 52.08 2179/4 8A 450 190 1780 68 500 235/55 R17   9.53 225 9.75     NA NA
2.2d Aero Sport 60.91 2179/4 8A 450 190 1780 68 500 235/55 R17   9.53 225 9.75     NA NA
2.2d Luxury 64.87 2179/4 8A 450 190 1780 68 500 235/55 R17   9.53 225 9.75     Jun 13 11111
V6d S Premium Luxury 72.68 2993/6 8A 600 275 1820 68 500 245/45 R18   8.03 250 NA     Apr 12 11111
R Supercharged Petrol 139.55 5000/8 8A 625 510 1891 70 500 275/30 R20   NA 250 NA     NA NA

HYUNDAI LAND ROVER
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)

TRACTION CONTROL
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ECONOMY (IN KM/L)
POWER WINDOWS
BRAKING SYSTEM
(IN LAKH RUPEES)
OVERALL RATING
CUBIC CAPACITY
(CC/CYLINDERS)
ALLOY WHEELS
MUSIC SYSTEM
AVERAGE FUEL
NO. OF GEARS
KERB WEIGHT
MODEL NAME
MAX TORQUE
BOOT SPACE
MAX POWER
ANTI-LOCK
(IN LITRES)
(IN LITRES)
TYRE SIZE
AIRBAGS
TESTED
(IN Nm)
(IN KG)
(IN PS)
PRICE
XJ
For: Luxury, space. Against: Price. Verdict: Don’t want a German luxury car? This is the one for you.
Alternatives: 1. Mercedes-Benz S-Class 2. Audi A8 3. BMW 7 Series
2.0i Petrol Portfolio 113.05 1999/4 8A 340 240 1824 82 520 275/40 R19   8.7 241 6.0     Oct 15 11111
V6 Diesel Premium Luxury 114.40 2993/6 8A 600 275 1988 82 520 245/45 R18   7.47 250 7.12     NA NA
V6 Diesel Portfolio 121.80 2993/6 8A 600 275 1988 82 520 275/40 R19   7.47 250 7.12     Feb 14 11111
F-TYPE
For: Exclusivity, power. Against: Price. Verdict: Exciting and raw sportscar.
Alternatives: 1. Audi R8 2. Porsche 911 3. Maserati GranTurismo/GranCabrio
V6 Coupé 134.00* 2995/6 8A 450 340 1577 72 407 NA   NA 260 NA     NA NA
V6 S Coupé 140.00* 2995/6 8A 460 380 1594 72 407 NA   NA 275 NA     NA NA
R Coupé 197.00* 5000/8 8A 680 550 1650 70 407 295/30 ZR20   4.06 300 4.75     Mar 15 11111
R AWD Coupé BO 5000/8 8A 680 550 1730 70 407 295/30 ZR20   NA 300 NA     NA NA
S Convertible 150.00* 2995/6 8A 460 380 1604 72 196 NA   NA 275 NA     NA NA
R Convertible 188.00* 5000/8 8A 680 550 1665 72 196 295/30 ZR20   NA 300 NA     NA NA
LAMBORGHINI
HURACÁN
Alternatives: 1. Ferrari 488 GTB 2. Porsche 911 Turbo S 3. Aston Martin Vantage V12 S
LP 610-4 345.00* 5204/10 7A 560 610 1422 90 NA 305/30 ZR20   NA 325 NA     NA NA
LP 620-2 BO 5204/10 7A 560 620 1270 90 NA 305/30 ZR20   NA NA NA     NA NA
AVENTADOR
Alternatives: 1. Ferrari F12berlinetta 2. Aston Martin Vanquish
LP 700-4 485.00* 6498/12 7A 690 700 1575 90 NA 335/30 ZR20   NA 350 NA     NA NA
LP 700-4 Roadster 545.00* 6498/12 7A 690 700 1565 90 NA 335/30 ZR20   NA 350 NA     NA NA
LP 750-4 Super Veloce BO 6498/12 7A 690 750 1525 90 NA 355/25 ZR21   NA NA NA     NA NA
LAND ROVER
DISCOVERY SPORT
For: Off-road capability, comfort. Against: Price. Verdict: Good all-round SUV with Land Rover off-road ability.
Alternatives: 1. Audi Q5 2. BMW X3 3. Volvo XC60
TD4 S 5-seater 46.10* 2179/4 9A 400 150 NA NA NA 235/65 R17   NA NA NA     NA NA
SD4 HSE Luxury 5-seater 60.70* 2179/4 9A 420 190 NA NA NA 235/60 R18   NA NA NA     NA NA
SD4 HSE Luxury 7-seater 62.18* 2179/4 9A 420 190 NA NA NA 235/60 R18   NA NA NA     NA NA
DISCOVERY 4
For: Off-road capability, luxury, comfort. Against: Price, service network. Verdict: Has got Land Rover off-roading heritage.
Alternatives: 1. Audi Q7 2. Volvo XC90 3. Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
TDV6 SE 108.00 2993/6 8A 600 249 2570 82 280 255/55 R19   NA 180 NA     NA NA
TDV6 HSE 112.35 2993/6 8A 600 249 2570 82 280 255/55 R19   NA 180 NA     NA NA
RANGE ROVER EVOQUE

For: Contemporary looks, ride quality, equipment, handling, off-road ability. Against: Space, price.
Verdict: If you want style and don’t mind the price, go for it. Alternatives: 1. Audi Q5 2. Volvo XC60
SD4 Pure 55.90 2197/4 9A 420 190 1700 57 575 235/65 R17   NA NA NA     NA NA
SD4 Dynamic 60.20 2197/4 9A 420 190 1715 57 575 235/60 R18   10.76 192.8 11.25     Jun 15 11111
SD4 Prestige 64.50 2197/4 9A 420 190 1715 57 575 235/60 R18   NA NA NA     NA NA
Si4 Dynamic Coupé 85.50* 1999/4 9A 340 240 1640 57 550 235/60 R18   NA NA NA     NA NA

GBU
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)

TRACTION CONTROL
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ECONOMY (IN KM/L)
POWER WINDOWS
BRAKING SYSTEM
(IN LAKH RUPEES)
OVERALL RATING
CUBIC CAPACITY
ALLOY WHEELS
MUSIC SYSTEM
AVERAGE FUEL
NO. OF GEARS
(C/CYLINDERS)
KERB WEIGHT
MODEL NAME
MAX TORQUE
BOOT SPACE
MAX POWER
ANTI-LOCK
(IN LITRES)
(IN LITRES)
TYRE SIZE
AIRBAGS
TESTED
(IN Nm)
(IN KG)
(IN PS)
PRICE
RANGE ROVER SPORT
For: Luxury. Against: Price. Verdict: If you want to stand out from the crowd...
Alternatives: 1. Porsche Cayenne 2. Toyota Landcruiser 200 3. Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
SDV6 S 141.80 2993/6 8A 600 292 2115 80 NA 255/55 R19   7.97 210 8.12     NA NA
SDV6 HSE 194.20 2993/6 8A 600 292 2115 80 NA 255/50 R20   7.97 210 8.12     Dec 13 11111
SCV8 Autobiography 214.70 5000/8 8A 625 510 2310 105 NA 255/50 R20   NA NA NA     NA NA
RANGE ROVER
For: Luxury of a limo. Against: Price. Verdict: Great off-roading ability with luxury.
Alternatives: 1. Toyota Landcruiser 200 2. Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
TDV6 HSE 188.00 2993/6 8A 600 258 2160 85 909 255/55 R19   NA NA NA     NA NA
TDV6 Vogue 214.00 2993/6 8A 600 258 2160 85 909 255/55 R19   NA NA NA     NA NA
SDV8 Vogue SE 223.80 4367/8 8A 700 339 2360 105 909 255/50 R20   7.29 218 9.0     Jun 13 11111
SDV8 Autobiography 263.80 4367/8 8A 700 339 2360 105 909 255/50 R20   7.29 218 9.0     NA NA
SCV8 Autobiography 271.70 5000/8 8A 625 510 2330 105 909 255/50 R20   NA NA NA     NA NA
RANGE ROVER L
For: Even more luxury than the standard Range Rover. Against: Price. Verdict: The first of the super-luxury SUVs.
Alternatives: None
TDV6 Vogue 218.00* 2993/6 8A 600 258 NA 80 NA 255/50 R20   NA NA NA     NA NA
SDV8 Vogue SE BO 4367/8 8A 700 339 NA 105 NA 255/50 R20   NA 217 NA     NA NA
SDV8 Autobiography BO 4367/8 8A 700 339 NA 105 NA 275/45 R21   NA 217 NA     NA NA
SCV8 Autobiography 276.00* 5000/8 8A 625 510 NA 105 NA 275/45 R21   NA 225 NA     NA NA
MAHINDRA & MAHINDRA

E20
For: Zero-emissions. Against: Space, range, price. Verdict: Electric car good enough for short city drives.
Alternatives: None
T01 5.64 I/Motor A 53.9 20 813 NA NA 155/70 R13 - - NA 75 NA - -  - NA NA
T2 Premium 6.52 I/Motor A 53 26 830 NA NA 155/70 R13 - - NA 81 NA - -  - NA NA
T20 Quick2Charge 6.94 I/Motor A 53 26 830 NA NA 155/70 R13 - - NA 81 NA - -  - NA NA
VERITO VIBE
For: Fuel efficiency, space. Against: Design could be smarter. Verdict: Spacious and frugal compact saloon.
Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki Swift DZire 2. Honda Amaze 3. Tata Zest
D2 6.38 1461/4 5 160 65 1150 50 330 185/70 R14 - - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA
D6 7.35 1461/4 5 160 65 1150 50 330 185/70 R14 -  16.04 153 NA     Jul 13 1111
VERITO
For: Space, gearbox, ride and price. Against: Lack of power, poor fit and finish, ergonomics. Verdict: Spacious, comfortable
and practical. A great sedan for a tight budget. Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki Swift DZire 2. Hyundai Xcent 3. Tata Manza
1.4 G2 6.04 1390/4 5 110 75 1080 50 510 185/70 R14 - - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA
1.4 G4 6.29 1390/4 5 110 75 1080 50 510 185/70 R14 - - NA NA NA  - - - NA NA
1.5 D2 7.29 1461/4 5 160 65 1140 50 510 185/70 R14 - - 16.82 152 16.75  - - - NA NA
1.5 D6 8.31 1461/4 5 160 65 1140 50 510 185/70 R14 -  16.82 152 16.75    - NA NA
THAR
For: Off-roading capability, attention grabber. Against: Dated, build quality.
Verdict: A vehicle for masses who have to tackle rough terrain on a daily basis. Alternatives: 1. Force Motors Gurkha
CRDe 8.03* 2498/4 5 247 105 1670 60 NA 235/70 R16 - - 18.41 134 11.75 - -  - Mar 11 111
Di 2WD NA 2523/4 5 182.5 64 2090 45 NA P 185 R16 - - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA
Di 4WD NA 2523/4 5 182.5 64 2090 45 NA P 185 R16 - - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA

LAND ROVER MAHINDRA
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)

TRACTION CONTROL
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ECONOMY (IN KM/L)
POWER WINDOWS
BRAKING SYSTEM
(IN LAKH RUPEES)
OVERALL RATING
CUBIC CAPACITY
(CC/CYLINDERS)
ALLOY WHEELS
MUSIC SYSTEM
AVERAGE FUEL
NO. OF GEARS
KERB WEIGHT
MODEL NAME
MAX TORQUE
BOOT SPACE
MAX POWER
ANTI-LOCK
(IN LITRES)
(IN LITRES)
TYRE SIZE
AIRBAGS
TESTED
(IN Nm)
(IN KG)
(IN PS)
PRICE
BOLERO
For: Rugged, reliable, do-it-all MUV. Against: Lacks refinement.
Verdict: : Get one if you have to haul a large number of people over bad roads. Alternatives: 1. ICML Extreme 2. Tata Sumo
ZLX 7.82* 2523/4 5 195 63 NA 60 NA 215/75 R15 - - NA NA NA  -  - NA NA
QUANTO
For: Space. Against: Looks, handling. Verdict: Good space for a four-metre car.
Alternatives: 1. Mahindra Bolero 2. Premier Rio 3. Tata Sumo Gold
C2 6.94 1493/3 5 240 100 1640 55 690 205/65 R15 - - 17.35 140.8 11.25 - - - - NA NA
C8 8.71 1493/3 5 240 100 1640 55 690 205/65 R15 -  17.35 140.8 11.25    - Nov 12 1112
TUV 300
For: Space, interior, ride quality, driving range, diesel automatic option. Against: Handling. Verdict: Compelling proposition.
Alternatives: 1. Ford Ecosport 2. Premier Rio 3. Chevrolet Enjoy
T4 6.90* 1493/3 5 230 84 1640 60 384 215/75 R15 - - 21.63 133.6 NA  - - - NA NA
T6+ AMT 8.52* 1493/3 5A 230 80 1640 60 384 215/75 R15 -  NA NA NA    - NA NA
T8 8.40* 1493/3 5 230 84 1640 60 384 215/75 R15 -  21.63 133.6 NA     Oct 15 NA
T8 AMT 9.12* 1493/3 5A 230 80 1640 60 384 215/75 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
XYLO
For: Value for money, interior, engine. Against: Unsettled ride. Verdict: The best bang for your buck in the MUV segment.
Alternatives: 1. Chevrolet Tavera 2. Honda Mobilio 3. Toyota Innova
D2 mDI 8.57 2489/4 5 220 94 1800 55 234 205/65 R15 - - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA
D4 mDI 9.08 2489/4 5 220 94 1800 55 234 205/65 R15 - - NA NA NA  -  - NA NA
H4 mHawk 9.81 2179/4 5 280 120 1800 55 234 215/75 R15 -  NA NA NA  -   NA NA
H9 mHawk 12.32 2179/4 5 280 120 1800 55 234 215/75 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
SCORPIO
For: Smooth, tractable mHawk engine, good value. Against: High-speed dynamics. Verdict: The best budget SUV around.
Alternatives: 1. Tata Safari Storme 2. Renault Duster 3. Hyundai Creta
S2 m2DICR 7.93* 2523/4 5 200 75 1890 60 460 215/75 R15 - - NA NA NA  - - - NA NA
S4 mHawk 8.55* 2179/4 5 280 120 1890 60 460 235/65 R17 - - 15.62 158.6 11.88  - - - NA NA
S4+ mHawk 4WD 10.57* 2179/4 5 280 120 1990 60 460 235/65 R17 -  NA NA NA   - - NA NA
S10 mHawk 11.41* 2179/4 5 280 120 1900 60 460 235/65 R17 -  15.62 158.6 11.88     Nov 14 1111
S10 mHawk 4WD 12.50* 2179/4 5 280 120 2000 60 460 235/65 R17 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
S10 mHawk AT 12.57* 2179/4 6A 280 120 1930 60 460 235/65 R17 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
S10 mHawk 4WD AT 13.75* 2179/4 6A 280 120 2030 60 460 235/65 R17 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
SCORPIO GETAWAY
For: Tons of luggage space, value for money. Against: Cramped interiors, poor high-speed handling.
Verdict: Fun, inexpensive vehicle for the outdoor people. Alternatives: 1. Tata Xenon 2. Isuzu D-Max
Getaway 4x2 8.69 2609/4 5 283 115 1910 55 460 235/70 R15 - - NA NA NA  -  - NA NA
Getaway 4x4 9.78 2523/4 5 195 63 NA 60 NA 215/75 R15 - - NA NA NA  -  - NA NA
XUV 500
For: Price, performance, space. Against: Gear shift, interior fit-and-finish. Verdict: Value for money.
Alternatives: 1. Renault Duster 2. Nissan Terrano 3. Skoda Yeti 4. Hyundai Creta
W4 11.21* 2197/4 6 330 140 1785 70 NA 235/65 R17 -  12.8 181.3 11.0    - NA NA
W8 14.18* 2197/4 6 330 140 1785 70 NA 235/65 R17   12.8 181.3 11.0     Nov 11 1111
W8 AWD 14.99* 2197/4 6 330 140 1865 70 NA 235/65 R17   NA NA NA     NA NA
W10 14.99* 2197/4 6 330 140 1785 70 NA 235/65 R17   12.8 181.3 11.0     NA NA
W10 AWD 15.99* 2197/4 6 330 140 1865 70 NA 235/65 R17   NA NA NA     NA NA

GBU
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)

TRACTION CONTROL
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ECONOMY (IN KM/L)
POWER WINDOWS
BRAKING SYSTEM
(IN LAKH RUPEES)
OVERALL RATING
CUBIC CAPACITY
ALLOY WHEELS
MUSIC SYSTEM
AVERAGE FUEL
NO. OF GEARS
(C/CYLINDERS)
KERB WEIGHT
MODEL NAME
MAX TORQUE
BOOT SPACE
MAX POWER
ANTI-LOCK
(IN LITRES)
(IN LITRES)
TYRE SIZE
AIRBAGS
TESTED
(IN Nm)
(IN KG)
(IN PS)
PRICE
MARUTI SUZUKI
ALTO 800
For: : Value for money. Against: High NVH levels. Verdict: One of the highest-selling cars in the country.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Eon 2. Datsun Go 3. Chevrolet Spark
LXi 3.73 796/3 5 69 48 720 35 NA 145/80 R12 - - 19.38 NA NA - - - - NA NA
LXi Green CNG 4.29 796/3 5 69 48 815 35 NA 145/80 R12 - - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA
VXi (O) 4.14 796/3 5 69 48 725 35 NA 145/80 R12 - - 19.38 NA NA    - NA NA
ALTO K10
For: Fuel efficiency, service. Against: Ride quality, space. Verdict: A convenient entry-level automatic option.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Santro Xing 2. Chevrolet Spark
LX 3.82 998/3 5 90 68 740 35 177 155/65 R13 - - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA
LXi Green CNG 4.58 998/3 5 78 59 835 35 NA 155/65 R13 - - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA
VXi (O) 4.48 998/3 5 90 68 755 35 177 155/65 R13 - - NA NA NA F   - NA NA
VXi AMT 4.78 998/3 5A 90 68 755 35 177 155/65 R13 - - NA NA NA F -  - NA NA
WAGON R
For: Flexible interior, tallboy design, fuel efficiency, easy to get in and out of. Against: Notchy gearshift, body roll, bland interior.
Verdict: A good city runabout. Alternatives: 1. Nissan Micra Active 2. Hyundai i10 3. Chevrolet Beat
LXi 4.73 998/3 5 90 68 860 35 NA 145/80 R13 - - 16.32 150.7 15.5 - - - - NA NA
LXi Green CNG 5.23 998/3 5 90 68 960 35 NA 145/80 R13 - - 16.32 150.7 15.5 - - - - NA NA
VXi 5.07 998/3 5 90 68 870 35 NA 155/65 R14 - - 16.32 150.7 15.5  -  - NA NA
VXi (O) 5.44 998/3 5 90 68 885 35 NA 155/65 R14 -  16.32 150.7 15.5    - Jun 10 1112
STINGRAY
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai i10 2. Chevrolet Beat 3. Ford Figo
LXi 4.96 998/3 5 90 68 870 35 NA 155/65 R14 - - NA NA NA F - - - NA NA
VXi (O) 5.66 998/3 5 90 68 885 35 NA 155/65 R14 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
CELERIO
For: Convenience, price. Against: Slow shifts (AMT), safety. Verdict: Affordable compact with a smooth petrol AMT and frugal diesel.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Grand i10 2. Honda Brio 3. Nissan Micra
LXi 4.63 998/3 5 90 68 810 35 235 155/80 R13 - - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA
VXi AMT 5.55 998/3 5A 90 68 NA 35 235 165/70 R14 - - 18.34 153.4 13.88  - - - May 14 1111
ZXi AMT 5.90 998/3 5A 90 68 NA 35 235 165/70 R14 - - 18.34 153.4 13.88    - NA NA
ZXi O 5.86 998/3 5 90 68 830 35 235 165/70 R14 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
VXi Green CNG 5.54 998/3 5 90 68 NA 35 235 165/70 R14 - - NA NA NA  - - - NA NA
LDi 5.66 793/2 5 125 47.5 780 35 235 155/80 R13 - - 26.1 132 21.83  - - - NA NA
ZDi O 6.89 793/2 5 125 47.5 800 35 235 165/70 R14 -  26.1 132 21.83     Aug 15 1111
RITZ
For: Ride quality, frugal engines. Against: Weak top end (petrol). Verdict: A tall boy family alternative to the Swift.
Alternatives: 1. FIAT Punto Evo 2. Hyundai Grand i10 3. Nissan Micra
LXi 5.29 1197/4 5 114 87 1005 43 236 165/80 R14 - - 14.92 162.1 17.4 - - - - NA NA
VXi AT 6.71 1197/4 4A 114 87 1035 43 236 165/80 R14 -  NA NA NA  - - - NA NA
ZXi 6.42 1197/4 5 114 87 1030 43 236 185/70 R14 -  14.92 162.1 17.4     Jul 09 1111
LDi 6.57 1248/4 5 190 75 1100 43 236 165/80 R14 - - 14.71 170 20.75 - - - - NA NA
ZDi 7.71 1248/4 5 190 75 1125 43 236 185/70 R14 -  14.71 170 20.75     NA NA

MARUTI SUZUKI MARUTI SUZUKI
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)

TRACTION CONTROL
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ECONOMY (IN KM/L)
POWER WINDOWS
BRAKING SYSTEM
(IN LAKH RUPEES)
OVERALL RATING
CUBIC CAPACITY
(CC/CYLINDERS)
ALLOY WHEELS
MUSIC SYSTEM
AVERAGE FUEL
NO. OF GEARS
KERB WEIGHT
MODEL NAME
MAX TORQUE
BOOT SPACE
MAX POWER
ANTI-LOCK
(IN LITRES)
(IN LITRES)
TYRE SIZE
AIRBAGS
TESTED
(IN Nm)
(IN KG)
(IN PS)
PRICE
SWIFT
For: Service network, reliablity. Against: Looks like the old car. Verdict: Buy it for ride quality and space.
Alternatives: 1. Volkswagen Polo 2. FIAT Punto Evo 3. Hyundai Elite i20 4. Ford Figo
LXi 5.43 1197/4 5 115 85 935 42 237 165/80 R14 - - 14.35 170 17.6 - - - - NA NA
ZXi 7.26 1197/4 5 115 85 965 42 237 185/65 R15 -  14.35 170 17.6     Nov 11 1111
LDi 6.94 1248/4 5 190 75 1050 42 237 165/80 R14 - - 14.26 165 19.5 - - - - NA NA
ZDi 8.61 1248/4 5 190 75 1060 42 237 185/65 R15 -  14.26 165 19.5     Nov 11 11112
DZIRE
For: Frugal, powerful and practical diesel mill, great value. Against: Isn’t too good to look at. Verdict: Tough to find a better entry-
level saloon at this price. Great car, if only it looked a bit better. Alternatives: 1. Mahindra Verito 2. Tata Zest 3. Toyota Etios
LXi 6.12 1197/4 5 114 87 935 42 316 165/80 R14 - - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA
ZXi 8.04 1197/4 4A 114 87 965 42 316 185/65 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
VXi AT 7.88 1197/4 4A 114 87 965 42 316 165/80 R14 - - NA NA NA     NA NA
LDi 7.56 1248/4 5 190 75 1045 42 316 165/80 R14 - - 14.24 160 19.3 - - - - NA NA
ZDi 9.21 1248/4 5 190 75 1070 42 316 185/65 R15 -  14.24 160 19.3     Mar 12 11112
CIAZ
For: Feature-packed. Against: Rivals are quicker and slightly faster.
Verdict: A contemporary all-round package. Alternatives: 1. Ford Fiesta 2. Honda City 3. Hyundai Verna 4. FIAT Linea
VXi 8.53 1372/4 5 130 92.5 1010 50 510 195/65 R15 - - NA NA NA  -  - NA NA
ZXi+ 10.63 1372/4 5 130 92.5 1010 50 510 205/60 R16 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
VXi+ AT 10.50 1372/4 4A 130 92.5 NA 50 510 195/65 R15 - - NA NA NA  -  - NA NA
ZXi AT 11.28 1372/4 4A 130 92.5 NA 50 510 205/60 R16 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
VDi SHVS 8.23* 1248/4 5 200 90 1105 50 510 195/65 R15 - - 13.62 168.9 16.75  -  - NA NA
ZDi+ SHVS 10.17* 1248/4 5 200 90 1105 50 510 205/60 R16 -  13.62 168.9 16.75     Apr 15 1111
OMNI
For: Affordablility, space, maintenance. Against: Safety, equipment. Verdict: Cheap van with dangerously dicey dynamics and
unprecedented safety issues. Alternatives: None
5-Seater 3.17 796/3 4 59 35 785 35 NA 145/70 R12 - - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA
8-Seater 3.20 796/3 4 59 35 800 35 NA 145/70 R12 - - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA
EECO
For: Price, space, engine power and refinement. Against: Boxy looks, hard suspension. Verdict: Practical and affordable option
for big middle-class families, good option for car pooling. Alternatives: 1. Datsun Go+
5-Seater STD 3.80 1196/4 5 102 73 908 40 NA 155 R13 - - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA
7-Seater STD 4.00 1196/4 5 102 73 928 40 NA 155 R13 - - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA
5-Seater AC 4.17 1196/4 5 102 73 923 40 NA 155 R13 - - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA
5-Seater AC Green 4.85 1196/4 5 102 73 923 40 NA 155 R13 - - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA
ERTIGA
For: Value for money, fuel efficiency. Against: You either have the third row of seats or luggage space.
Verdict: A good car in its segment. Alternatives: 1. Honda Mobilio 2. Renault Lodgy 3. Chevrolet Enjoy
LXi 7.23 1372/4 5 130 95 1760 45 NA 185/65 R15 - - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA
ZXi 8.94 1372/4 5 130 95 1760 45 NA 185/65 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
LDi 8.98 1248/4 5 200 90 1845 45 NA 185/65 R15 - - 14.72 164.4 13.6 - - - - NA NA
ZDi 10.48 1248/4 5 200 90 1845 45 NA 185/65 R15 -  14.72 164.4 13.6     Aug 12 11112

GBU
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)

TRACTION CONTROL
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ECONOMY (IN KM/L)
POWER WINDOWS
BRAKING SYSTEM
(IN LAKH RUPEES)
OVERALL RATING
CUBIC CAPACITY
ALLOY WHEELS
MUSIC SYSTEM
AVERAGE FUEL
NO. OF GEARS
(C/CYLINDERS)
KERB WEIGHT
MODEL NAME
MAX TORQUE
BOOT SPACE
MAX POWER
ANTI-LOCK
(IN LITRES)
(IN LITRES)
TYRE SIZE
AIRBAGS
TESTED
(IN Nm)
(IN KG)
(IN PS)
PRICE
S-CROSS
For: Ride quality, features, practicality, safety. Against: Tyre grip level, dated looks. Verdict: Practical and safe family car.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Creta 2. Ford EcoSport 3. Renault Duster
DDiS 200 Sigma 8.34* 1248/4 5 200 90 NA 45 NA 205/65 R16 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
DDiS 200 Alpha 10.75* 1248/4 5 200 90 NA 45 NA 215/60 R17 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
DDiS 320 Delta 11.99* 1598/4 6 320 120 NA 45 NA 215/60 R17 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
DDiS 320 Alpha 13.74* 1598/4 6 320 120 NA 45 NA 215/60 R17 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
GYPSY
For: Off-road ability. Against: On-road ability. Verdict: One of the oldest and most proven serious off-roaders in India.
Alternatives: 1. Mahindra Thar 2. Force Gurkha
Soft Top 6.26* 1298/4 5 103 80 985 40 NA 205/70 R15 - - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA
Hard Top 6.40* 1298/4 5 103 80 1020 40 NA 205/70 R15 - - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA
GRAND VITARA
For: Good looks, well-priced in its class. Against: Harsh ride, thirsty engine. Verdict: Well-rounded on/off-roader.
Alternatives: 1. Honda CR-V 2. Chevrolet Captiva
MT 22.68* 2393/4 5 225 163.5 1614 66 398 225/65 R17 -  12.01 179 9.0     Aug 09 1111
AT 24.61* 2393/4 4A 225 163.5 1636 66 398 225/65 R17 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
MASERATI
GHIBLI
For: Style, driver appeal. Against: Price. Verdict: The only Italian option in the German-dominated sport-luxury segment.
Alternatives: 1. (Size-wise) Jaguar XF, BMW 5 Series, Mercedes E-Class 2. (Price-wise) Porsche Panamera, Mercedes S-Class
Ghibli Diesel 110.00* 2987/6 8A 600 275 1835 70 500 235/50 R18   NA 250 NA     NA NA
QUATTROPORTE
For: NA. Against: NA. Verdict: An Italian four-door sport-luxury car with distinct road presence.
Alternatives: 1. Porsche Panamera 2. Aston Martin Rapide S
Quattroporte Diesel 150.00* 2979/6 8A 550 410 1760 80 530 245/45 R19   NA 250 NA     NA NA
Quattroporte GTS 220.00* 3899/8 8A 650 530 1900 80 530 285/30 R20   NA 307 NA     NA NA
GRANTURISMO
For: NA. Against: NA. Verdict: Italian GT which doesn't cost the Earth.
Alternatives: 1. Jaguar F-Type 2. Porsche 911 3. Aston Martin Vantage 4. Mercedes S-Coupé
GranTurismo 180.00* 4244/8 7A 460 405 1880 86 260 285/40 R19   NA 285 NA     NA NA
Sport MC Shift BO 4691/8 7A 520 460 1880 86 260 285/35 R20   NA 298 NA     NA NA
GRANCABRIO
For: NA. Against: NA. Verdict: If you want an Italian GT and want to feel the wind in your hair.
Alternatives: 1. Jaguar F-Type 2. Porsche 911 Cabriolet
GranCabrio 200.00* 4691/8 6A 510 450 1980 75 173 285/40 R19   NA 285 NA     NA NA
MC Sport LIne 280.00* 4691/8 6A 520 460 1973 75 173 285/35 R20   NA 289 NA     NA NA
MERCEDES-BENZ
A-CLASS
For: Your entry into luxury, fun to drive. Against: Space, ride quality, value for money. Verdict: A fun hatch, but at a price.
Alternatives: 1. MINI Cooper 2. BMW 1 Series 3. Volvo V40
A 180 Sport 35.48 1595/4 7A 200 122 1395 50 341 225/45 R17   9.23 201 9.5     Sep 13 11111
A 200 CDI Sport 36.78 2143/4 7A 300 136 1475 50 341 225/45 R17   NA NA NA     NA NA
B-CLASS
For: Badge, space. Against: Price, refinement, noisy diesel engine. Verdict: Spacious premium hatch with solid build quality.
Alternatives: 1. MINI Cooper Countryman 2. Volvo V40 Cross Country
B 180 Sport 37.23 1595/4 7A 200 122 1425 50 486 225/45 R17   NA NA NA     NA NA
B 200 CDI Sport 38.53 2143/4 7A 300 136 1505 50 486 225/45 R17   NA NA NA     Apr 15 NA
CLA-CLASS
For: Performance, handling, dynamics. Against: Ground clearance, rear headroom. Verdict: Nimble and stylish four-door coupé.
Alternatives: 1. Audi A3 2. Audi TT
CLA 200 Sport 32.90* 1991/4 7A 300 184 1395 50 470 225/50 R17   NA NA NA     NA NA
CLA 200 CDI Style 30.70* 2143/4 7A 300 136 1500 50 470 225/50 R17   NA NA NA     NA NA
CLA 200 CDI Sport 33.90* 2143/4 7A 300 136 1500 50 470 225/50 R17   9.69 220 14.5     May 15 11112
AMG CLA 45 4MATIC 91.67 1991/4 7A 450 360 1585 56 470 235/40 R18   5.98 250 8.0     Aug 14 11112

MARUTI SUZUKI MERCEDES-BENZ
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)

TRACTION CONTROL
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ECONOMY (IN KM/L)
POWER WINDOWS
BRAKING SYSTEM
(IN LAKH RUPEES)
OVERALL RATING
CUBIC CAPACITY
(CC/CYLINDERS)
ALLOY WHEELS
MUSIC SYSTEM
AVERAGE FUEL
NO. OF GEARS
KERB WEIGHT
MODEL NAME
MAX TORQUE
BOOT SPACE
MAX POWER
ANTI-LOCK
(IN LITRES)
(IN LITRES)
TYRE SIZE
AIRBAGS
TESTED
(IN Nm)
(IN KG)
(IN PS)
PRICE
C-CLASS
For: The three-pointed star. Against: Price. Verdict: Fun to drive executive saloon with good ride quality too.
Alternatives: 1. Audi A4 2. BMW 3 Series 3. Volvo S60
C 200 47.17 1991/4 7A 300 184 1465 41 480 225/50 R17   7.85 235 NA     Dec 14 11112
C 220 CDI Style 46.77 2143/4 7A 400 170 1655 41 480 225/50 R17   NA 233 NA     NA NA
C 220 CDI Avantgarde 49.18 2143/4 7A 400 170 1655 41 480 225/50 R17   8.35 233 11.75     Mar 15 11112
AMG C 63 S 130.00* 3982/8 7A 700 510 1730 66 435 265/35 R19   NA 250 NA     NA NA
E-CLASS
For: Technology, status symbol. Against: Price. Verdict: Executive alternative to Audi.
Alternatives: 1. Audi A6 2. BMW 5 Series 3. Jaguar XF 4. Volvo S80
E 200 58.35 1991/4 7A 300 184 1720 80 540 245/45 R17   9.84 233 9.0     Nov 13 11111
E 250 CDI 61.99 2143/4 7A 500 204 1800 80 540 245/45 R17   8.93 242 10.87     Sep 13 11111
E 350 CDI 73.07 2967/6 7A 620 265 1915 80 540 245/45 R17   6.99 250 9.38     Feb 15 11111
AMG E 63 165.70 5461/8 7A 720 557 1845 66 540 285/35 R18   4.89 250 4.25     Dec 13 11111
E 400 Cabriolet 101.08 2996/6 7A 480 333 1845 66 390 235/45 R17   6.2 250 5.88     Sep 15 11111
CLS-CLASS
For: Distinctive, better to drive than the E-Class. Against: Lack of rear head room. Verdict: Refreshing new looks.
Alternatives: 1. BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé
CLS 250 CDI 98.53 2143/4 7A 500 204 1735 59 475 245/45 R17   NA 242 NA     NA NA
S-CLASS
For: Luxury, comfort, the tag of ‘World’s Best Car’. Against: Price. Verdict: Elegant looks with top-of-the-line luxury features.
Alternatives: 1. Audi A8 2. Jaguar XJ 3. BMW 7 Series
S 350 CDI L 138.17 2987/6 7A 620 258 2132 70 530 245/50 R18   7.94 250 8.75     Jul 14 11111
S 500 L 172.20 4663/8 7A 700 455 2200 80 530 245/45 R19   5.51 250 4.87     Jan 14 11111
AMG S 63 L 248.00* 5461/8 7A 900 585 2070 70 510 285/40 R19   NA 250 NA     NA NA
S-CLASS COUPÉ
For: Luxury, dynamics, equipment. Against: Price, weight. Verdict: S-Class luxury in a driver's car with two less doors.
Alternatives: 1. Maserati GranTurismo 2. Bentley Continental GT
S 500 263.77 4663/8 9A 700 455 2030 80 400 245/50 R18   NA 250 NA     NA NA
AMG S 63 336.56 5461/8 7A 900 585 2070 80 400 255/45 R19   NA 250 NA     NA NA
SLK-CLASS
For: A full-fledged sports car. Against: Price. Verdict: Have the money? Buy it.
Alternatives: 1. Audi TT 2. Porsche Boxster 3. BMW Z4
SLK 350 98.34 3498/6 7A 370 306 1570 60 335 245/40 R17   6.9 250 7.7     Nov 11 11111
AMG SLK 55 161.84 5461/8 7A 540 421 1610 70 335 255/35 R18   6.29 250 5.75     Feb 14 11111
GLA-CLASS
For: Build quality, all-weather ability. Against: Not really for the off-road. Verdict: Compact crossover with the three-pointed star.
Alternatives: 1. Audi Q3 2. Volvo V40 Cross Country 3. BMW X1 4. MINI Countryman
GLA 200 Sport 44.21 1991/4 7A 300 184 1525 50 421 235/50 R18   NA NA NA     NA NA
GLA 200 CDI Style 38.79 2143/4 7A 300 136 1585 50 421 235/50 R18   NA NA NA     NA NA
GLA 200 CDI Sport 42.40 2143/4 7A 300 136 1585 50 421 235/50 R18   NA NA NA     NA NA
AMG GLA 45 4MATIC 94.83 1991/4 7A 450 360 1580 56 421 235/45 R19   6.71 250 NA     Dec 14 11111
ML-CLASS
For: Great soft-roader with a brand image. Against: Equipment level. Verdict: State-of-the-art technology and looks.
Alternatives: 1. BMW X5 2. Volvo XC60 3. Porsche Cayenne
ML 250 CDI 4MATIC 69.46 2143/4 7A 500 204 2150 70 690 255/55 R18   NA 212 NA     NA NA
ML 350 CDI 4MATIC 83.06 2987/6 7A 620 258 2175 70 690 255/50 R19   7.5 224 9.0     Jun 12 11112
AMG ML 63 4MATIC 192.46 5461/8 7A 760 557 2345 93 690 265/45 R20   5.25 250 4.38     Jul 14 11111
GL-CLASS
For: Build quality, go-anywhere ability. Against: Expensive, bland styling. Verdict: Joint family car for jewellers and businessmen.
Alternatives: 1. Audi Q7 2. Toyota Land Cruiser 200 3. Land Rover Range Rover Sport
GL 350 CDI 4MATIC 94.63 2987/6 7A 620 258 2175 100 620 295/40 R21   8.76 220 7.75     Aug 13 11112
AMG GL 63 4MATIC 226.27 5461/8 7A 760 557 2580 100 620 295/40 R21   5.63 250 4.25     Jun 14 11111
G-CLASS
For: Performance, off-road capability. Against: Price, fuel efficency. Verdict: The car to have if you want to be different.
Alternatives: 1. Porsche Cayenne Turbo 2. Land Rover Range Rover Sport
AMG G 63 4MATIC 244.91 5461/8 7A 760 544 2550 96 480 275/55 R19   5.86 250 NA     Oct 15 11111

GBU
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)

TRACTION CONTROL
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ECONOMY (IN KM/L)
POWER WINDOWS
BRAKING SYSTEM
(IN LAKH RUPEES)
OVERALL RATING
CUBIC CAPACITY
ALLOY WHEELS
MUSIC SYSTEM
AVERAGE FUEL
NO. OF GEARS
(C/CYLINDERS)
KERB WEIGHT
MODEL NAME
MAX TORQUE
BOOT SPACE
MAX POWER
ANTI-LOCK
(IN LITRES)
(IN LITRES)
TYRE SIZE
AIRBAGS
TESTED
(IN Nm)
(IN KG)
(IN PS)
PRICE
MINI
COOPER
For: Performance, looks. Against: Ride quality, no spare wheel, space, price. Verdict: Iconic small car with a hefty price-tag.
Alternatives: 1. FIAT 500 2. Mercedes-Benz A-Class 3. BMW 1 Series 4. Volvo V40
Cooper D 3-door 28.50* 1496/3 6A 270 115 1225 40 211 195/55 R16   NA NA NA     NA NA
Cooper D 5-door 31.90* 1496/3 6A 270 115 1280 40 278 195/55 R16   NA NA NA     NA NA
Cooper S 3-door 31.50* 1998/4 6A 280 192 1220 44 211 195/55 R16   NA NA NA     NA NA
Cooper Convertible 33.90* 1598/4 6A 160 122 1165 40 125 195/55 R16   NA NA NA     NA NA
COOPER COUNTRYMAN
For: A big and spacious MINI. Against: Ride quality, price, no spare wheel. Verdict: Buy the Countryman if you want a MINI.
Alternatives: 1. Audi Q3 2. Volvo V40 Cross Country 3. BMW X1 4. Mercedes-Benz B-Class, GLA-Class
D Countryman 36.50* 1995/4 6A 270 112 1310 47 350 205/45 R17   11.1 NA 11.62     NA NA
NISSAN
MICRA
For: Good space given its compact footprint, visibility, easy to drive. Against: Engine refinement, build doesn’t feel tough enough.
Verdict: Value-for-money hatchback. Alternatives: 1. Volkswagen Polo 2. Hyundai Grand i10 3. Ford Figo
Active XE (P) 4.13 1198/3 5 104 68 860 41 251 155/80 R13 - - NA NA NA -  - - NA NA
Active XV SP (P) 5.89 1198/3 5 104 68 860 41 251 165/70 R14 -  NA NA NA    - NA NA
XL (P) 6.06 1198/3 5 104 76 860 41 251 165/70 R14 - - 13.51 NA 15.1   - - NA NA
XL CVT (P) 7.76 1198/3 CVT 104 76 860 41 251 175/60 R15 -  17.2 140.3 10.5     Sep 13 1111
XE DCi 6.85 1461/4 5 160 64 945 41 251 165/70 R14 - - 15.21 NA 17.1 -  - - NA NA
XV Premium DCi 8.88 1461/4 5 160 64 945 41 251 175/60 R15 -  15.21 166 17.1     Jan 11 1111
SUNNY
For: Ride quality, interiors and space. Against: Fuel efficiency. Verdict: Comfortable car, especially if chauffeur-driven
Alternatives: 1. Mahindra Verito 2. Tata Manza 3. Ford Fiesta 4. Toyota Etios 5. Maruti-Suzuki Swift DZire
XE (P) 8.67 1498/4 5 134 99 998 41 490 185/70 R14 -  12.8 NA 11.75 F  - - NA NA
XL (P) 9.58 1498/4 5 134 99 1022 41 490 185/70 R14 -  12.8 NA 11.75    - NA NA
XL CVT (P) 11.15 1498/4 CVT 134 101 1040 41 490 185/70 R14 -  NA NA NA    - NA NA
XE DCi 10.23 1461/4 5 200 86 1092 41 490 185/65 R14 -  13.44 168.3 15.75 F  - - NA NA
XV Premium DCi 12.85 1461/4 5 200 86 1097 41 490 185/65 R15 -  13.44 168.3 15.75     Mar 12 1111
TERRANO
For: Handling, ride quality. Against: Rear leg space. Verdict: A well-engineered car and good value for money.
Alternatives: 1. Force Motors Force One 2. Mahindra Scorpio 3. Renault Duster
XL Petrol 12.81 1598/4 5 145 104 1755 50 475 215/65 R16 -  NA NA NA    - NA NA
XE dCi 85 12.94 1461/4 5 200 85 1749 50 475 215/65 R16 - - NA NA NA   - - NA NA
XL O dCi 85 14.54 1461/4 5 200 85 1764 50 475 215/65 R16 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
XL dCi 110 14.77 1461/4 6 248 110 1759 50 475 215/65 R16 -  12.46 169 12.25     NA NA
XV Premium dCi 110 16.32 1461/4 6 248 110 1787 50 475 215/65 R16 -  12.46 169 12.25     Jan 14 1111
TEANA
For: Refinement. space, features. Against: Outright performance, service, spares. Verdict: An exceptionally good car for
those who like being chauffeur-driven. Alternatives: 1. Skoda Superb 2. Audi A3
250 XL 26.13 2496/6 4A 228 182 1506 70 448 205/65 R16   10.58 205 10.25     NA NA
250 XV 30.69 2496/6 4A 228 182 1537 70 448 215/55 R17   10.58 205 10.25     Oct 09 11112
X-TRAIL
For: Compact size, capable soft-roader. Decent off-roading ability. Against: Lack of lowdown power, not a serious off-roader, lack
of third-row seats. Verdict: Good soft-roader with automatic option. Alternatives: 1. Toyota Fortuner 2. Hyundai Santa Fe
LE MT 28.34 1995/4 6 320 150 1618 65 603 215/65 R16 -  10.75 197 14.0     NA NA
SLX MT 31.41 1995/4 6 320 150 1630 65 603 215/60 R17   10.75 197 14.0     Oct 09 11112
SLX AT 33.69 1995/4 6A 320 150 1663 65 603 215/65 R17   NA NA NA     NA NA
PORSCHE
BOXSTER
For: Handling, sports car feel with a soft top. Against: Price. Verdict: The first step into the Porsche sports car family.
Alternatives: 1. BMW Z4 2. Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class
Boxster S 100.14* 3436/6 7A 360 315 1370 64 280 265/45 ZR18   NA 277 NA     NA NA
Boxster GTS 112.90* 3436/6 7A 370 330 1375 64 280 265/35 ZR20   5.81 279 5.25     Aug 15 11111

MINI PREMIER AUTO
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)

TRACTION CONTROL
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ECONOMY (IN KM/L)
POWER WINDOWS
BRAKING SYSTEM
(IN LAKH RUPEES)
OVERALL RATING
CUBIC CAPACITY
(CC/CYLINDERS)
ALLOY WHEELS
MUSIC SYSTEM
AVERAGE FUEL
NO. OF GEARS
KERB WEIGHT
MODEL NAME
MAX TORQUE
BOOT SPACE
MAX POWER
ANTI-LOCK
(IN LITRES)
(IN LITRES)
TYRE SIZE
AIRBAGS
TESTED
(IN Nm)
(IN KG)
(IN PS)
PRICE
CAYMAN
For: Probably the best handling sportscar on sale today. Against: Price, thanks to our import duty structure.
Verdict: If you can’t afford a 911, this is your best bet. Alternatives: 1. Audi TT 2. Jaguar F-Type V6
Cayman S 102.60* 3436/6 7A 370 325 1350 64 150 265/40 ZR19   6.2 283 NA     Nov 13 11111
Cayman GTS 115.36* 3436/6 7A 380 340 1345 64 150 265/35 ZR20   NA 285 NA     NA NA
Cayman GT4 127.46* 3800/6 6 420 385 1340 54 150 265/35 ZR20   NA 295 NA     NA NA
911
For: Over 50 years later, still one of the most desired and revered sports cars. Against: Price.
Verdict: Iconic sportscar keeps getting better. Alternatives: 1. Jaguar F-Type V8 2. Audi R8 3. Aston Martin Vantage
Carrera 135.49* 3436/6 7A 390 350 1380 64 135 285/35 R19   NA 289 NA     NA NA
Carrera 4 145.30* 3436/6 7A 390 350 1430 68 125 295/35 R19   NA 285 NA     NA NA
Carrera S 155.61* 3800/6 7A 440 400 1395 64 135 295/30 R20   NA 304 NA     NA NA
Carrera 4S 164.94* 3800/6 7A 440 400 1445 68 125 305/30 R20   5.23 299 NA     Apr 13 11111
Targa 4 156.10* 3436/6 7A 390 350 1560 68 125 295/35 R19   NA 282 NA     NA NA
Targa 4S 175.25* 3800/6 7A 440 400 1575 68 125 305/30 R20   5.59 296 NA     May 15 11111
Targa 4 GTS 189.48* 3800/6 7A 440 430 1580 68 125 305/30 R20   NA 301 NA     NA NA
Turbo 210.10* 3800/6 7A 660 520 1595 68 135 305/30 R20   NA 315 NA     NA NA
Turbo S 252.32* 3800/6 7A 700 560 1605 68 135 305/30 R20   NA 318 NA     NA NA
GT3 197.34* 3799/6 7A 440 475 1430 64 125 305/30 R20   NA 315 NA     NA NA
911 CABRIOLET
For: Performance, style. Against: Price. Verdict: 911 performance with the top down.
Alternatives: 1. Jaguar F-Type 2. Maserati GranCabrio 3. Ferrari California T
Carrera 148.25* 3436/6 7A 390 350 1450 64 135 285/35 R19   NA 286 NA     NA NA
Carrera 4 158.07* 3436/6 7A 390 350 1500 68 125 295/35 R19   NA 282 NA     NA NA
Carrera S 167.88* 3800/6 7A 440 400 1465 64 135 295/30 R20   NA 301 NA     NA NA
Carrera 4S 177.70* 3800/6 7A 440 400 1515 68 125 295/30 R20   NA 296 NA     NA NA
Turbo 223.85* 3800/6 7A 660 520 1665 68 135 305/30 R20   NA 315 NA     NA NA
Turbo S 267.04* 3800/6 7A 700 560 1675 68 135 305/30 R20   NA 318 NA     NA NA
MACAN
For: A sports car with high ground clearance. Against: Price. Verdict: A compact SUV off the road, a sports car on it.
Alternatives: 1. Land Rover Range Rover Evoque 2. Mercedes GLA45 AMG
Macan S Diesel 98.18* 2967/6 7A 580 245 1880 60 500 255/55 R18   7.22 204 13.52     Aug 14 11111
Macan Turbo 108.98* 3604/6 7A 550 400 1925 75 500 255/55 R18   5.23 266 NA     Jun 15 11111
CAYENNE
For: A big sports car with high ground clearance. Against: Price and fuel efficiency. Verdict: If you want a car with a
good ground clearance and performance, this is it. Alternatives: 1. Audi Q7 2. Land Rover Range Rover Sport 3. BMW X5
Cayenne Diesel 102.10* 2967/6 8A 550 245 2110 85 670 255/55 R18   NA 221 NA     NA NA
Cayenne S Diesel 118.80* 4134/8 8A 850 385 2215 85 670 255/55 R18   NA 252 NA     NA NA
Cayenne 97.55* 3598/6 8A 400 300 2040 85 670 255/55 R18   NA 230 NA     NA NA
Cayenne S 116.34* 3604/6 8A 550 420 2085 85 670 255/55 R18   NA 259 NA     NA NA
Cayenne GTS 137.62* 3604/6 8A 600 440 2110 85 670 255/55 R18   NA 262 NA     NA NA
Cayenne Turbo 174.76* 4806/8 8A 750 520 2185 100 670 265/50 R19   NA 279 NA     NA NA
Cayenne Turbo S 247.92* 4806/8 8A 800 570 2235 100 670 275/45 R20   NA 284 NA     NA NA
PANAMERA
For: Luxury and performance. Against: Price. Verdict: A 2+2 grand touring package from Porsche.
Alternatives: 1. Bentley Flying Spur 2. Aston Martin Rapide 3. Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Panamera 114.87* 3604/6 7A 400 310 1730 80 445 275/45 ZR18   NA 259 NA     NA NA
Panamera 4 117.32* 3604/6 7A 400 310 1820 80 445 275/45 ZR18   NA 257 NA     NA NA
Panamera Diesel 113.98* 2967/6 8A 550 250 1900 80 445 275/45 ZR18   6.71 244 9.0     Mar 14 11111
Panamera GTS 147.27* 4806/8 7A 520 440 1925 100 445 275/45 ZR18   NA 288 NA     NA NA
Panamera Turbo 181.63* 4806/8 7A 700 520 1970 100 432 285/40 ZR19   NA 305 NA     NA NA
Panamera Turbo S 228.75* 4806/8 7A 750 570 1995 100 432 285/40 ZR19   NA 310 NA     NA NA
PREMIER AUTO
RIO
For: Creates a new segment in India, efficient diesel engine. Against: Overall quality could be better.
Verdict: A decent offering by Premier, could do with better finishing on the inside. Alternatives: Mahindra Quanto
GX 7.06 1173/4 5 104 76.6 1080 46 454 205/70 R15 - - NA NA NA  - - - NA NA
GLX 7.37 1173/4 5 104 76.6 1080 46 454 205/70 R15 -  NA NA NA  -   NA NA
CRDi4 DX 7.63 1248/4 5 189 72 1145 46 NA 205/70 R15 - - NA NA NA  -   NA NA
CRDi4 LX 7.98 1248/4 5 189 72 1145 46 NA 205/70 R15 -  NA NA NA  -   NA NA

GBU
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)

TRACTION CONTROL
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ECONOMY (IN KM/L)
POWER WINDOWS
BRAKING SYSTEM
(IN LAKH RUPEES)
OVERALL RATING
CUBIC CAPACITY
ALLOY WHEELS
MUSIC SYSTEM
AVERAGE FUEL
NO. OF GEARS
(C/CYLINDERS)
KERB WEIGHT
MODEL NAME
MAX TORQUE
BOOT SPACE
MAX POWER
ANTI-LOCK
(IN LITRES)
(IN LITRES)
TYRE SIZE
AIRBAGS
TESTED
(IN Nm)
(IN KG)
(IN PS)
PRICE
RENAULT
KWID
For: Ride, handling, space, practicality. Against: Safety equipment. Verdict: Very capable compact car with excellent ride quality.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Eon 2. Maruti Suzuki Alto 3. Datsun Go
Std 2.57* 799/3 5 72 54 630 28 300 155/80 R13 - - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA
RxT (O) 3.53* 799/3 5 72 54 660 28 300 155/80 R13 - - NA NA NA F   O NA NA
PULSE
For: Good cabin space and visibility Against: Engine refinement and build quality not as good as in he other hatchbacks.
Alternatives: 1. Volkswagen Polo 2. Maruti Suzuki Swift 3. Hyundai i10 4. Ford Figo 5. Nissan Micra
RxL (P) 5.77 1198/3 5 104 76 NA 41 251 NA - - NA NA NA -  - - NA NA
RxL DCi 7.12 1461/4 5 160 64 NA 41 251 165/70 R14 -  15.2 166 17.1 -  - - NA NA
RxZ DCi 7.93 1461/4 5 160 64 NA 41 251 175/60 R15 -  15.2 166 17.1     Mar 12 1111
SCALA
For: NA Against: NA Verdict: NA
Alternatives: 1. Ford Fiesta 2. Maruti Suzuki Ciaz 3. Nissan Sunny
RxE (P) 8.50 1498/4 5 134 99 1010 41 490 185/70 R14 -  NA NA NA    - NA NA
RxL (P) 8.80 1498/4 5 134 99 1010 41 490 185/65 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
RxL (P) CVT 10.14 1498/4 CVT 134 99 1028 41 490 185/65 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
RxE DCi 9.98 1461/4 5 200 86 1085 41 490 185/65 R15 -  NA NA NA    - NA NA
RxL DCi 10.14 1461/4 5 200 86 1085 41 490 185/65 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
RxZ DCi 10.60 1461/4 5 200 86 1085 41 490 185/65 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
FLUENCE
For: Good ride quality, looks. Against: Underpowered engine. Verdict: Good D-segment alternative.
Alternatives: 1. Skoda Octavia 2. Toyota Corolla Altis 3. Hyundai Elantra
Diesel E2 17.20 1461/4 6 240 110 NA NA NA 205/60 R16   12.79 181 13.25     Sep 11 1111
Diesel E4 19.06 1461/4 6 240 110 NA NA NA 205/60 R16   12.79 181 13.25     NA NA
LODGY
For: Space, practicality, flexibility. Against: Fit-and-finish. Verdict: Extremely capable and practical people carrier.
Alternatives: 1. Honda Mobilio 2. Mahindra Xylo 3. Toyota Innova
DCi85 Std 8-st 9.65 1498/4 5 200 86 1345 50 207 185/65 R15 - - NA NA NA  - - - NA NA
DCi85 RxZ 8-st 13.13 1461/4 5 200 86 1345 50 207 185/65 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
DCi110 RxL 8-st 12.16 1461/4 6 245 110 1368 50 207 185/65 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
DCi110 RxZ 7-st 14.20 1461/4 6 245 110 1368 50 207 185/65 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
DCi110 Stepway 7-st 12.29* 1461/4 6 245 110 1368 50 207 185/65 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
DUSTER
For: Handling, ride quality, safety. Against: Rear leg space, quality of plastics. Verdict: Well-engineered car, great value for money.
Alternatives: 1. Mahindra XUV500 2. Nissan Terrano 3. Hyundai Creta
Petrol RxE 9.55 1598/4 5 145 104 1204 50 475 215/65 R16 - - NA NA NA  - - - NA NA
Petrol RxL 10.84 1598/4 5 145 104 1204 50 475 215/65 R16 - - NA NA NA  -  - NA NA
DCi85 RxE 10.56 1461/4 5 200 85 1222 50 475 215/65 R16 - - NA NA NA  - - - NA NA
DCi85 RxL O 13.39 1461/4 5 200 85 1222 50 475 215/65 R16 -  NA NA NA    - NA NA
DCi85 Explore 11.67 1461/4 5 200 85 1222 50 475 215/65 R16 -  NA NA NA    - NA NA
DCi110 Explore 12.96 1461/4 6 248 110 1245 50 475 215/65 R16 -  12.46 168.4 12.25    - NA NA
DCi110 RxL 13.10 1461/4 6 248 110 1245 50 475 215/65 R16 -  12.46 168.4 12.25    - NA NA
DCi110 RxZ+ O Nav 15.94 1461/4 6 248 110 1245 50 475 215/65 R16 -  12.46 168.4 12.25     Oct 12 1111
DCi110 RxZ AWD 16.26 1461/4 6 245 110 1334 50 410 215/65 R16   14.35 165.9 11.25     Oct 14 1111
KOLEOS
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Santa Fe 2. Nissan X-Trail
Koleos 4x2 MT 27.47 1995/4 6 320 150 1692 65 450 225/60 R17   NA NA NA     NA NA
Koleos 4x4 MT 31.24 1995/4 6 360 173 1750 65 450 225/60 R17   NA NA NA     NA NA
Koleos 4x4 AT 32.14 1995/4 6A 360 173 1794 65 450 225/60 R17   NA NA NA     NA NA
ROLLS-ROYCE
GHOST
For: Luxury, brand value. Against: Price? Verdict: The most attainable step to the iconic British luxury brand.
Alternatives: 1. Bentley Flying Spur
Ghost 450.00* 6592/12 8A 780 570 2360 82.5 490 255/50 R19   NA 250 NA     NA NA
Ghost Extended 535.00* 6592/12 8A 780 570 2420 82.5 490 255/50 R19   NA 250 NA     NA NA

RENAULT SUZUKA
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)

TRACTION CONTROL
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ECONOMY (IN KM/L)
POWER WINDOWS
BRAKING SYSTEM
(IN LAKH RUPEES)
OVERALL RATING
CUBIC CAPACITY
(CC/CYLINDERS)
ALLOY WHEELS
MUSIC SYSTEM
AVERAGE FUEL
NO. OF GEARS
KERB WEIGHT
MODEL NAME
MAX TORQUE
BOOT SPACE
MAX POWER
ANTI-LOCK
(IN LITRES)
(IN LITRES)
TYRE SIZE
AIRBAGS
TESTED
(IN Nm)
(IN KG)
(IN PS)
PRICE
WRAITH
For: Road presence. Against: Price. Verdict: The definitive high-roller.
Alternatives: 1. Bentley Continental GT Speed
Wraith 466.00* 6592/12 8A 800 632 2360 83 470 285/40 R20   NA 250 NA     NA NA
Wraith Bespoke Audio 545.00* 6592/12 8A 800 632 2360 83 470 285/40 R20   NA 250 NA     NA NA
PHANTOM
For: Massive presence. Against: Massive presence. Verdict: Out of my way, little man.
Alternatives: 1. Bentley Mulsanne
Phantom 800.00* 6749/12 8A 720 460 2560 100 460 285/45 R21   NA 240 NA     NA NA
Phantom Extended 900.00* 6749/12 8A 720 460 2670 100 460 285/45 R21   NA 240 NA     NA NA
Phantom Coupé BO 6749/12 8A 720 460 2580 100 395 285/45 R21   NA 250 NA     NA NA
Phantom Drophead BO 6749/12 8A 720 460 2630 80 315 285/45 R21   NA 240 NA     NA NA
SSANGYONG
REXTON
For: Space, good quality of interiors Against: Body-roll, spongy brake feel. Verdict: A good pick for those looking for a more
affordable option in the segment Alternatives: 1. Toyota Fortuner 2. Isuzu MU-7
RX5 (MT) 21.64 2696/5 5 340 162 2760 78 NA 235/75 R16 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
RX6 (MT) 22.50 2696/5 5 340 162 2760 78 NA 235/75 R16 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
RX7 (AT) 24.42 2696/5 5A 402 184 2760 78 NA 235/75 R16 -  10.6 NA 6.87     Dec 12 1111
ŠKODA
RAPID
For: Build quality, high speed stability and ride Against: Service, engine clatter Verdict: Solid car, but let down by poor service.
Alternatives: 1. Ford Fiesta 2. Honda City 3. Hyundai Verna 4. Volkswagen Vento
Active MPI 6.99* 1598/4 5 153 105 1145 55 460 185/60 R15 - - 11.8 188.5 14.1  -  - NA NA
Elegance+ Black MPI 8.82* 1598/4 5 153 105 1145 55 460 185/60 R15 -  11.8 188.5 14.1     Jan 12 11112
Elegance MPI AT 9.29* 1598/4 6A 153 105 1180 55 460 185/60 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
Elegance+ Black MPI AT 9.82* 1598/4 6A 153 105 1180 55 460 185/60 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
Active TDI 7.99* 1498/4 5 250 105 1206 55 460 185/60 R15 - - 13.84 176.3 17.5  -  - NA NA
Elegance+ Black TDI 9.72* 1498/4 5 250 105 1228 55 460 185/60 R15 -  13.84 176.3 17.5     Nov 14 11112
Ambition TDI AT 10.79* 1498/4 7A 250 105 1182 55 460 185/60 R15  - 12.74 179.3 17.25  -  - NA NA
Elegance+ Black TDI AT 10.92* 1498/4 7A 250 105 1210 55 460 185/60 R15   12.74 179.3 17.25     Nov 14 11112
OCTAVIA
For: Loaded with technology, performance, equipment list. Against: Price. Verdict: A genuine D-segmenter loaded with goodies.
Alternatives: 1. Volkswagen Jetta 2. Chevrolet Cruze 3. Toyota Corolla Altis 4. Hyundai Elantra
Ambition 1.4 TSI 15.96* 1390/4 6 250 140 1260 50 590 205/55 R16   NA NA NA   - - NA NA
Elegance 1.8 TSI AT 19.30* 1798/4 7A 250 180 1376 50 590 205/55 R16   NA NA NA     NA NA
Ambition 2.0 TDI 17.55* 1968/4 6 320 143 1340 50 590 205/55 R16   11.14 196.5 13.5   - - Aug 14 11112
Elegance 2.0 TDI AT 20.22* 1968/4 6A 320 143 1395 50 590 205/55 R16   9.52 200 12.75     Dec 14 11112
SUPERB
For: Performance, comfort, luxury, presence, build, equipment. Against: The badge. Verdict: Genuinely well-equipped sedan.
Alternatives: 1. Nissan Teana 2. Toyota Camry
1.8 TSI (P) 21.26* 1798/4 6 250 160 1586 60 565 205/55 R16   9.25 219 11.62     Jun 10 11112
1.8 TSI (P) AT 22.89* 1798/4 7A 250 160 1598 60 565 205/55 R16   NA NA NA     NA NA
2.0 TDI AT 25.78* 1968/4 6A 320 140 1644 60 565 205/55 R16   10.92 198 11.5     May 09 11112
YETI
For: Space, comfort, practicality, safety. Against: Styling? Verdict: Multi-tasker, offers car comfort and SUV capability.
Alternatives: 1. Renault Duster 2. Mahindra XUV500 3. Chevrolet Captiva
Elegance 4x2 19.73* 1968/4 5 250 110 1445 55 416 215/60 R16   NA NA NA     NA NA
Elegance 4x4 21.40* 1968/4 6 320 140 1543 60 416 215/60 R16   11.63 NA 14.1     Dec 10 11112
SUZUKA RACING
ATV
Alternatives: NA
A24 110 1.76 110/1 A NA 7.5 NA NA NA NA x 7 - - NA 65 NA - - - - NA NA
A54 125 1.78 125/1 A NA 8.1 NA NA NA NA x 8 - - NA 65 NA - - - - NA NA
A64 250 1.93 250/1 A NA 17 NA NA NA NA - - NA 80 NA - - - - NA NA

GBU
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)

TRACTION CONTROL
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ECONOMY (IN KM/L)
POWER WINDOWS
BRAKING SYSTEM
(IN LAKH RUPEES)
OVERALL RATING
CUBIC CAPACITY
ALLOY WHEELS
MUSIC SYSTEM
AVERAGE FUEL
NO. OF GEARS
(C/CYLINDERS)
KERB WEIGHT
MODEL NAME
MAX TORQUE
BOOT SPACE
MAX POWER
ANTI-LOCK
(IN LITRES)
(IN LITRES)
TYRE SIZE
AIRBAGS
TESTED
(IN Nm)
(IN KG)
(IN PS)
PRICE
TATA MOTORS
NANO
For: Sheer value for money, space, price. Against: Built to a price. Verdict: A real ‘car’ for a very, very low price.
Alternatives: 1. Maruti Alto 800 2. Hyundai Eon
GenX XE 2.14* 624/2 4 51 38 695 24 110 155/65 R12 - - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA
GenX XT 2.64* 624/2 4 51 38 735 24 110 155/65 R12 - - NA NA NA F -  - NA NA
GenX XMA 2.84* 624/2 5A 51 38 755 24 94 155/65 R12 - - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA
GenX XTA 3.05* 624/2 5A 51 38 765 24 94 155/65 R12 - - NA NA NA F -  - NA NA
emax CNG CX 2.78 624/2 4 45 33 745 15 80 155/65 R12 - - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA
emax CNG LX 3.06 624/2 4 45 33 745 15 80 155/65 R12 - - NA NA NA  - - - NA NA
INDICA
For: Frugal diesel, space, economical to run and maintain. Against: Refinement, build quality, NVH levels.
Verdict: One of the cheapest cars to own and run. Alternatives: 1. Chevrolet Sail U-Va 2. Toyota Etios Liva 3. Maruti Suzuki Ritz
eV2 LS CR4 4.80 1396/4 5 140 70 1080 37 220 155/80 R13 - - 16.02 155.6 18.5  - - - NA NA
eV2 LX CR4 5.53 1396/4 5 140 70 1080 37 220 165/65 R14 - - 16.02 155.6 18.5  - - - May 11 1112
INDICA VISTA
For: Reliable and efficient diesel, space, economical. Against: Refinement, build quality, NVH levels.
Verdict: Easy to own and maintain. Alternatives: 1. Chevrolet Sail U-Va 2. Toyota Etios Liva 3. Maruti Suzuki Ritz
LS Quadrajet D 6.24 1248/4 5 190 75 1140 37 232 175/65 R14 - - 17.22 NA 18.0 - - - - NA NA
VX Tech Quadrajet D 7.05 1248/4 5 190 75 1140 37 232 175/65 R14 -  17.22 NA 18.0  -  - NA NA
BOLT
For: Space, features. Against: Refinement, efficiency. Verdict: Decent package which could be much better.
Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki Swift 2. Toyota Etios Liva 3. Hyundai Grand i10
Revotron (P) XE 5.15 1193/4 5 140 90 1095 44 210 175/65 R14 - - 14.78 161.1 12 - - - - NA NA
Revotron (P) XT 6.99 1193/4 5 140 90 1125 44 210 175/65 R15 -  14.78 161.1 12     Apr 15 1111
Quadrajet XE 6.35 1248/4 5 190 75 1132 44 210 175/65 R14 - - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA
Quadrajet XT 8.08 1248/4 5 190 75 1160 44 210 175/65 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
ZEST
For: Equipment, ride quality, safety. Against: Fit-and-finish, petrol engine driveability. Verdict: A big step up from the Indigo CS.
Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki Swift DZire 2. Hyundai Xcent 3. Mahindra Verito
Revotron (P) XE 5.59 1193/4 5 140 90 1115 44 390 185/60 R15 - - 14.08 159 11.5 F - -  NA NA
Revotron (P) XT 7.22 1193/4 5 140 90 1135 44 390 185/60 R15 -  14.08 159 11.5     Oct 14 1111
Quadrajet XE 6.75 1248/4 5 190 75 1152 44 390 185/60 R15 - - NA NA NA F - -  NA NA
Quadrajet XT 8.40 1248/4 5 200 90 1155 44 390 185/60 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
Quadrajet XMA 8.34 1248/4 5A 200 90 1170 44 390 185/60 R15 -  17.37 153.7 15.9  -   Dec 14 1111
Quadrajet XTA 9.26 1248/4 5A 200 90 1170 44 390 185/60 R15 -  17.37 153.7 15.9     NA NA
MANZA
For: Value for money, comfort, space. Against: Plastic quality. Verdict: Tata’s best sedan yet
Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki Swift DZire 2. Honda Amaze 3. Toyota Etios
Safire GLS (P) 6.65 1368/4 5 116 90 1100 44 460 185/60 R15 - - 14.41 NA 13.5 - - - - NA NA
Safire GEX (P) 8.43 1368/4 5 116 90 1125 44 460 185/60 R15 -  14.41 NA 13.5  -   NA NA
Quadrajet LS D 6.78 1248/4 5 200 90 1200 44 460 185/60 R15 - - 14.07 167 17.1  -  - NA NA
Quadrajet EX D 9.21 1248/4 5 200 90 1210 44 460 185/60 R15 -  14.07 167 17.1  -  - NA NA
MOVUS
For: Practical, spacious, cheap to own and maintain. Against: Build quality, ride and handling. Verdict: Good, rugged option
for tour operators and rural customers. Alternatives: 1. Chevrolet Tavera 2. Mahindra Bolero.
DiCOR LX 9.24 2179/4 5 250 120 1705 65 NA 235/70 R16 - - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA
DiCOR GX 10.60 2179/4 5 250 120 1705 65 NA 235/70 R16 - - NA NA NA  -  - NA NA
XENON
For: Dual-purpose utility. Against: Build, ride quality. Verdict: Can be used as a pick-up; avoid unless necessary.
Alternatives: 1. Mahindra Scorpio Getaway 2. Isuzu D-Max
DiCOR 4x2 NA 2956/4 5 300 112 1700 65 NA 215/70 R16 - - NA 143 NA  - - - NA NA
XT EX 4x2 10.77 2179/4 5 320 140 1900 65 NA 235/70 R16 -  NA NA NA  -   NA NA
XT EX 4x4 11.89 2179/4 5 320 140 1990 65 NA 235/70 R16 -  NA NA NA  -   NA NA

TATA TOYOTA
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)

TRACTION CONTROL
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ECONOMY (IN KM/L)
POWER WINDOWS
BRAKING SYSTEM
(IN LAKH RUPEES)
OVERALL RATING
CUBIC CAPACITY
(CC/CYLINDERS)
ALLOY WHEELS
MUSIC SYSTEM
AVERAGE FUEL
NO. OF GEARS
KERB WEIGHT
MODEL NAME
MAX TORQUE
BOOT SPACE
MAX POWER
ANTI-LOCK
(IN LITRES)
(IN LITRES)
TYRE SIZE
AIRBAGS
TESTED
(IN Nm)
(IN KG)
(IN PS)
PRICE
SAFARI
For: Big, spacious, rides well, mile munching capability. Against: Not efficient, build, refinement, body roll.
Verdict: Big, spacious and comfortable, but not nimble. Alternatives: 1. Force One 2. Mahindra Scorpio
LX DiCOR 4x2 10.07 2179/4 5 320 140 2115 65 981 235/70 R16 - - 15.2 159.2 9.0  - - - NA NA
EX DiCOR 4x2 11.51 2179/4 5 320 140 2115 65 981 235/70 R16 -  15.2 159.2 9.0  -  - Nov 07 1111
SAFARI STORME
For: Space, off-road ability, soft ride. Against: Build, handling. Verdict: If you want an affordable big SUV, this is it.
Alternatives: 1. Force One 2. Mahindra Scorpio
LX 12.33 2179/4 5 320 150 2000 55 981 235/70 R16 -  NA NA NA  -  - NA NA
EX 13.24 2179/4 5 320 150 2000 55 981 235/70 R16 -  NA NA NA  -  - NA NA
VX 4x2 15.06 2179/4 5 320 150 2000 55 981 235/70 R16 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
VX 4x4 16.58 2179/4 5 320 150 2095 55 981 235/70 R16 -  15.79 150.4 NA     Jul 15 1111
ARIA
For: Gearshift, engine refinement, safety kit. Against: Not enough space optimisation, price. Verdict: Lots of kit, but too expensive.
Alternatives: 1. Toyota Innova 2. Honda Mobilio 3. Renault Lodgy 4. Mahindra Scorpio
Pure 4x2 13.59 2179/4 5 320 140 NA 60 NA 235/70 R16 -  15.38 171 11.6  -  - NA NA
Pleasure 4x2 15.09 2179/4 5 320 140 NA 60 NA 235/70 R16 -  15.38 171 11.6    - Sep 11 1111
Prestige 4x2 17.04 2179/4 5 320 140 NA 60 NA 235/65 R17 -  15.38 171 11.6     NA NA
Pride 4x4 18.91 2179/4 5 320 140 NA 60 NA 235/65 R17   15.35 178 10.62     Nov 10 1111
TOYOTA
ETIOS LIVA
For: Drivability, space. Against: Single wiper doesn’t clean windscreen properly, interior quality. Verdict: Good value for money.
Alternatives: 1. Ford Figo 2. Hyundai Grand i10 3. Nissan Micra
1.2 (P) J 5.55 1197/4 5 104 80 890 45 251 175/65 R14 - - 14.94 NA 17.75 -  - - NA NA
1.2 (P) V SP 7.10 1197/4 5 104 80 920 45 251 175/65 R14 -  14.94 NA 17.75     Aug 11 11112
1.5 (P) TRD Sportivo 7.21 1496/4 5 132 90 925 45 251 185/60 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
D-4D JD 6.88 1364/4 5 170 68 980 45 251 175/65 R14 -  17.01 NA 19.0   - - NA NA
D-4D TRD Sportivo 7.91 1364/4 5 170 68 995 45 251 185/60 R15 -  17.01 NA 19.0     NA NA
D-4D V D SP 8.22 1364/4 5 170 68 980 45 251 175/65 R14 -  17.01 NA 19.0    - NA NA
ETIOS CROSS
Alternatives: 1. Volkswagen Cross Polo
1.2 (P) G 6.65 1197/4 5 104 80 935 45 251 185/60 R15 - - NA NA NA     NA NA
1.5 (P) V 8.52 1496/4 5 132 90 950 45 251 185/60 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
D-4D GD 8.05 1364/4 5 170 68 1015 45 251 185/60 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
D-4D VD 8.51 1364/4 5 170 68 1030 45 251 185/60 R15 -  17.01 NA 19.0     NA NA
ETIOS
For: Fuel efficiency, space, driveability. Against: Quality of interior plastics. Verdict: Good work horse.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Xcent 2. Mahindra Verito 3. Maruti Suzuki Swift DZire
1.5 (P) J 6.67 1496/4 5 132 90 900 45 595 175/65 R14 - - 11.57 171 17.75 -  - - NA NA
1.5 (P) G 7.09 1496/4 5 132 90 915 45 595 175/65 R14 - O 11.57 171 17.75   O O NA NA
1.5 (P) V SP 8.76 1496/4 5 132 90 930 45 595 185/60 R15 -  11.57 171 17.75     Jan 11 11112
D-4D JD 7.94 1496/4 5 132 90 930 45 595 185/60 R15 -  11.57 171 17.75     NA NA
D-4D G D 8.37 1364/4 5 170 68 990 45 595 175/65 R14 - O 16.18 160 18.75   - - NA NA
D-4D V D SP 9.60 1364/4 5 170 68 1005 45 595 185/60 R15 -  16.18 160 18.75     Oct 11 11112
COROLLA ALTIS
For: Good mix of performance, interior and ride quality. Against: Does not excel in any particular field.
Verdict: Potent performer with a Toyota badge. Alternatives: 1. Skoda Octavia 2. Hyundai Elantra 3. Volkswagen Jetta
1.8 (P) J S 14.87 1794/4 6 173 140 1180 50 470 195/60 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
1.8 (P) GL 18.63 1794/4 6 173 140 NA 50 470 195/60 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
1.8 (P) VL CVT 20.34 1794/4 CVT 173 140 1270 50 470 205/55 R16 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
D-4D J 16.21 1364/4 6 205 88 1230 50 470 195/65 R15 -  13.35 177.6 17.75     NA NA
D-4D GL 20.39 1364/4 6 205 88 1270 50 470 205/55 R16 -  13.35 177.6 17.75     Aug 14 11112
CAMRY
For: Space, comfort, lavish interior, equipment. Against: Size, not performance oriented. Verdict: Perhaps the most comfortable
chauffeur-driven car in its segment. Alternatives: 1. Skoda Superb 2. Nissan Teana
Petrol 28.80* 2494/4 6A 233 181 1475 70 535 215/60 R16   10.36 194 NA     Sep 12 11112
Hybrid 31.92* 2494/4 E-CVT NA 205 1625 65 535 215/55 R17   NA NA NA     NA NA

GBU
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)

TRACTION CONTROL
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ECONOMY (IN KM/L)
POWER WINDOWS
BRAKING SYSTEM
(IN LAKH RUPEES)
OVERALL RATING
CUBIC CAPACITY
ALLOY WHEELS
MUSIC SYSTEM
AVERAGE FUEL
NO. OF GEARS
(C/CYLINDERS)
KERB WEIGHT
MODEL NAME
MAX TORQUE
BOOT SPACE
MAX POWER
ANTI-LOCK
(IN LITRES)
(IN LITRES)
TYRE SIZE
AIRBAGS
TESTED
(IN Nm)
(IN KG)
(IN PS)
PRICE
PRIUS
For: : Environment-friendly nature, fuel efficiency. Against: Price. Verdict: For the environment-conscious car buyer.
Alternatives: None as yet
Z5 50.76 1798/4 CVT 142 99 1395 45 NA 195/65 R15   11.68 175.4 16.5     NA NA
Z6 52.90 1798/4 CVT 142 99 1395 45 NA 195/65 R15   11.68 175.4 16.5     Jul 10 11112
INNOVA
For: Refinement, ride, handling, performance, space, interior. Against: Not much. Verdict: Capable machine that is tough to fault.
Alternatives: 1. Tata Aria 2. Chevrolet Tavera 3. Mahindra Xylo
2.0 Petrol VX 7-st 17.31 1998/4 5 181 132 1585 55 NA 205/65 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
D-4D G 8-st 15.24 2494/4 5 200 102 1660 55 NA 205/65 R15 -  17.5 151.2 12.0 - - - - NA NA
D-4D GX 7-st 15.84 2494/4 5 200 102 1675 55 NA 205/65 R15 -  17.5 151.2 12.0   - - NA NA
D-4D VX 8-st 18.34 2494/4 5 200 102 1680 55 NA 205/65 R15 -  17.5 151.2 12.0     Aug 05 11112
D-4D Z 7-st 19.12 2494/4 5 200 102 1700 55 NA 205/65 R15 -  17.5 151.2 12.0     NA NA
FORTUNER
For: Space, refinement, value. Against: Big, cumbersome in traffic. Verdict: Good combination of on- and off-road vehicle.
Alternatives: 1. Mitsubishi Pajero Sport 2. Chevrolet Captiva 3. Nissan X-Trail
2.5 MT TRD Sportivo 29.71 2494/4 5 343 144 1850 80 NA 265/65 R17   NA NA NA     NA NA
2.5 AT TRD Sportivo 30.93 2494/4 5A 343 144 1880 80 NA 265/65 R17   NA NA NA     NA NA
3.0 MT 29.50 2982/4 5 343 171 1880 80 NA 265/65 R17   NA NA NA     NA NA
3.0 AT 30.72 2982/4 5A 360 171 1890 80 NA 265/65 R17   11.6 179.1 9.12     Apr 12 11112
3.0 4x4 MT 31.11 2982/4 5 343 171 1970 80 NA 265/65 R17   NA NA NA     NA NA
3.0 4x4 AT 32.33 2982/4 5A 360 171 2000 80 NA 265/65 R17   12.22 177.86 7.88     Sep 15 1111
LANDCRUISER PRADO
For: Off-road credentials, road presence. Against: Price, body roll. Verdict: Its a good off roader with a comfortable ride
Alternatives: 1. Mercedes-Benz M-Class 2. BMW X5 3. Porsche Cayenne
VX-L 117.20 2982/4 5A 410 173 2380 87 620 265/60 R18   13.2 156 8.9     Jan 10 11112
LANDCRUISER 200
For: Super-luxurious, smooth, powerful, refined. Against: Poor fuel efficiency, expensive to buy and run, old-hat image.
Verdict: If you can afford one, think of it as a Lexus LX for bad roads! Alternatives: 1. Audi Q7 2. Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
VX 156.60 4461/8 6A 650 265 2725 93 620 285/60 R18   10.71 210 5.92     Jul 09 11112
VOLKSWAGEN
POLO
For: Beautifully built, great interiors, drivability Against: Cramped rear, some essential features missing. Verdict: Probably the most
complete hatchback on sale currently. Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Elite i20 2. Toyota Etios Liva 3. Maruti Suzuki Swift
1.2 MPi Trendline 6.12 1198/3 5 110 75 1033 45 NA 175/70 R14 - - 16.64 169 15.4 -  - - NA NA
1.2 MPi Highline 7.41 1198/3 5 110 75 1053 45 NA 185/60 R15 -  16.64 169 15.4     Mar 10 11111
Cross Polo MPi 8.09 1198/3 5 110 75 1063 45 NA 185/60 R15 -  16.64 169 15.4     NA NA
GT TSi (P) 9.67 1197/4 7A 175 105 1140 45 NA 185/60 R15   10.31 NA 12.87     Jul 13 11112
1.5 TDi Trendline 7.78 1498/4 5 230 90 1126 45 NA 175/70 R14 - - 15.03 156.47 17.5 -  - - NA NA
1.5 TDi Highline 9.09 1498/4 5 230 90 1158 45 NA 185/60 R15 -  15.03 156.47 17.5     Aug 14 11112
Cross Polo TDi 9.72 1198/3 5 110 75 1063 45 NA 185/60 R15 -  16.64 169 15.4     NA NA
GT TDi 9.84 1498/4 5 250 105 1158 45 NA 185/60 R15 -  NA NA NA     NA NA
VENTO
For: Space, ride quality, handling and build quality Against: Availability, engine clatter Verdict: A complete sedan.
Alternatives: 1. Honda City 2. FIAT Linea 3. Skoda Rapid
1.6 MPi Trendline 9.01 1598/4 5 153 105 1120 55 460 175/70 R14 -  11.87 186.2 14.1    - NA NA
1.6 MPi Highline 10.61 1598/4 5 153 105 1140 55 460 185/60 R15 -  11.87 186.2 14.1     Oct 10 11112
TSi Comfortline DSG 11.22 1197/4 7A 175 105 1188 55 460 185/60 R15 -  11.68 177.3 12.5    - NA NA
TSi Highline DSG 12.00 1197/4 7A 175 105 1204 55 460 185/60 R15 -  11.68 177.3 12.5     Dec 13 11112
TDi Trendline 10.47 1498/4 5 250 105 1190 55 460 175/70 R14 -  13.84 176.3 17.5    - NA NA
TDi Highline 12.18 1498/4 5 250 105 1222 55 460 185/60 R15 -  13.84 176.3 17.5     NA NA
TDi Comfortline DSG 13.19 1498/4 7A 250 105 NA 55 460 185/60 R15 -  12.74 179.3 17.25    - NA NA
TDi Highline DSG 13.75 1498/4 7A 250 105 1232 55 460 185/60 R15 -  12.74 179.3 17.25     Dec 14 11112

TOYOTA VOLVO
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)

TRACTION CONTROL
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ECONOMY (IN KM/L)
POWER WINDOWS
BRAKING SYSTEM
(IN LAKH RUPEES)
OVERALL RATING
CUBIC CAPACITY
(CC/CYLINDERS)
ALLOY WHEELS
MUSIC SYSTEM
AVERAGE FUEL
NO. OF GEARS
KERB WEIGHT
MODEL NAME
MAX TORQUE
BOOT SPACE
MAX POWER
ANTI-LOCK
(IN LITRES)
(IN LITRES)
TYRE SIZE
AIRBAGS
TESTED
(IN Nm)
(IN KG)
(IN PS)
PRICE
JETTA
For: Build quality, steering response, stability, suspension Against: Price. Verdict: Makes tremendous sense for India.
Alternatives: 1. Skoda Octavia 2. Toyota Corolla Altis 3. Chevrolet Cruze
1.4 TSi Trendline 16.56 1390/4 6 200 122 1445 55 527 205/55 R16 -  11.57 NA 11.25     NA NA
1.4 TSi Comfortline 18.33 1390/4 6 200 122 1445 55 527 205/55 R16 -  11.57 NA 11.25     Aug 12 1111
2.0 TDi Trendline 18.30 1968/4 6 320 140 1445 55 527 205/55 R16   NA NA NA     NA NA
2.0 TDi Comfortline 20.58 1968/4 6 320 140 1445 55 527 205/55 R16   NA NA NA     NA NA
2.0 TDi Highline 22.84 1968/4 6 320 140 1445 55 527 205/55 R16   NA NA NA     NA NA
2.0 TDi Highline DSG 24.26 1968/4 6A 320 140 1460 55 527 205/55 R16   10.54 205 14.25     Oct 11 11112
VOLVO
V40
For: Safety, build quality, styling. Against: Ride height. Verdict: Smart and safe urban luxury hatchback.
Alternatives: 1. Mercedes-Benz A-Class 2. BMW 1 Series 3. MINI Cooper
D3 Kinetic 24.75* 1984/5 6A 350 150 1570 60 335 225/50 R17   NA NA NA     NA NA
D3 R-Design 27.70* 1984/5 6A 350 150 1575 60 335 225/50 R17   9.48 200 11.0     Aug 15 11112
V40 CROSS COUNTRY

For: Safety, interiors, performance, fuel efficiency. Against: Stiff ride, price. Verdict: Good option if you don’t want a German.
Alternatives: 1. Audi Q3 2. Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class 3. BMW X1 4. MINI Countryman
T4 (Petrol) 27.00* 1596/4 6A 240 180 1485 62 324 225/50 R17   NA NA NA     NA NA
D3 (Diesel) 32.50* 1984/5 6A 350 150 1582 60 335 225/50 R17   9.48 200 11.0     Aug 13 11112
S60
For: Safety, handling, ride quality, performance. Against: Fuel efficiency, price. Verdict: Good-looking and sporty Volvo.
Alternatives: 1. Audi A4 2. BMW 3 Series 3. Mercedes-Benz C-Class
D4 Kinetic 32.40* 1969/4 8A 400 181 1652 67.5 380 215/50 R17   NA NA NA     NA NA
D4 Summum 35.25* 1969/4 8A 400 181 1652 67.5 380 235/40 R18   NA NA NA     NA NA
D4 R-Design 40.25* 1969/4 8A 400 181 1652 67.5 380 235/40 R18   NA NA NA     NA NA
D5 Summum 38.35* 2400/5 6A 440 215 1680 67.5 380 235/40 R18   NA NA NA     NA NA
T6 (Petrol) 42.00* 1969/4 8A 400 306 1675 67.5 380 235/40 R18   NA 230 NA     NA NA
S80
For: Build quality, safety, comfort. Against: Fuel efficiency, brand appeal. Verdict: Understated, solidly built luxury car.
Alternatives: 1. Audi A6 2. BMW 5 Series 3. Mercedes-Benz E-Class 4. Jaguar XF
D4 Summum 42.58* 1969/4 8A 400 181 1704 70 480 225/50 R17   NA NA NA     NA NA
D5 Summum 46.20* 2400/5 6A 440 215 1730 70 480 225/50 R17   8.10 NA 10.75     NA NA
XC60
For: Safety, features ,style. Against: Slow gearbox (D5). Verdict: Practical, safe and value for money family luxury car.
Alternatives: 1. Audi Q5 2. Land Rover Range Rover Evoque 3. Mercedes-Benz ML-Class 4. BMW X3
D4 Kinetic 43.50* 1969/4 8A 400 181 1854 70 495 235/65 R17   9.82 197.2 11.0     NA NA
D4 Summum 46.60* 1969/4 8A 400 181 1854 70 495 235/60 R18   9.82 197.2 11.0     NA NA
D4 R-Design 52.00* 1969/4 8A 400 181 1854 70 495 235/60 R18   9.82 197.2 11.0     Jul 15 11112
D5 AWD Summum 50.20* 2400/5 6A 440 215 1915 70 495 235/60 R18   9.5 197.7 10.0     Jan 11 11112
XC90
For: Comfort, safety, technology, handling, style. Against: Brand value still not up there. Verdict: Most advanced Volvo yet.
Alternatives: 1. Audi Q7 2. Mercedes-Benz GL-Class 3. BMW X5 4. Land Rover Discovery
D5 Momentum 64.90* 1969/4 8A 470 225 2005 71 368 255/55 R19   NA 220 NA     NA NA
D5 Inscription 77.90* 1969/4 8A 470 225 2011 71 368 275/45 R20   NA 220 NA     NA NA

10
TRAILING END
Mitsubishi Pajero
Body-on-ladder
One of the most iconic 4WD SUVs globally, the
Pajero is named after leopardus pajeros, the
Pampas cat native to southern Argentina. Over
Construction 4x4s
the years, the Pajero has been known by other
names: ‘Montero’ (meaning ‘mountain hunter’)
in Spain and India, and ‘Shogun’ in the United
States of America.
Compiled by: Ryan Lee
Mahindra Thar
The Thar was introduced in 2010 to fill the void
left by the MM540 and it is the company’s
flagship off-road vehicle, capable of conquering
every terrain that may come its way. Toyota Land Cruiser
Another name synonymous with desert drives
and dune-bashing also happens to be one of
the company’s longest running car series.
Tata Safari Toyota introduced the Land Cruiser as the
company’s Jeep-like vehicle in 1951. Since its
The first SUV to be designed and built entirely introduction, the LC has proved its mettle and
in India. This true-blooded Indian beast is also is still going strong.
capable of tackling varied terrain. We recently
tested the Storme and it did conquer the
unbeaten path.
Maruti Suzuki Gypsy

The Gypsy has been around for decades and is
based on the Suzuki Jimny series. The Indian
Army uses the Gypsy as its chariot, because it is
primarily an off-road vehicle, ready to drive on
rough or no roads. Mercedes G-Wagen
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, also known as the
G-Wagen, is short for ‘Geländewagen’, which
means cross-country vehicle. The G-Wagen is a
4x4 (and 6x6) luxury SUV with three differential
locks, a bonus while getting out of tricky off-
Mahindra Scorpio road situations.
The Mahindra Scorpio was the company’s first
SUV that was successfully built and accepted by
the global market. Recently we drove the Scorpio
from Chandigarh to Kaza and it tackled the
Force Gurkha battered mountain roads with ease.
The Gurkha name is associated with the
company’s monstrous off-roader, the RFC
Gurkha. But the road-legal SUV is no less, as it
borrows more than a few features from its Ford Endeavour
sibling, making it a hardcore and capable off-
Ford built the Endeavour with the tag-line
roading SUV.
‘purpose-built capability’. It has the ability to
conquer any terrain, be it sand, snow or rock; the
Endeavour takes it all in its stride. The Endeavour
is the company’s toughest SUV available in India.
Toyota Fortuner
The Toyota Fortuner, also known as the Toyota
SW4, is built on the Toyota Hilux pick-up truck
platform, known for its ruggedness and ability
to tackle different terrains. We recently took the
Fortuner on a 6,000-kilometre journey and it
took a lot of battering, but it took everything in
its stride with commendable aplomb.

RNI NO. MAHENG / 2005 / 16216

Car October 2015 PDF

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Car October 2015 PDF

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

TESTED: Audi A6 35 TDI Matrix  BMW X6 xDrive 40d  Toyota Fortuner 4x4 AT ` 125.

BIG SMALL CAR,

78 ROAD TEST 100 COMPARO

REGULARS TESTS SPORT FIRST DRIVES

DUSTING THE CLOUDS

6/CAR INDIA /October 2015 www.carindia.in

When Shall We Catch Up With Them? Correspondents

ASPI BHATHENA EDITOR Devendra Mehta - Mob No.- 09714913234

Why we are unique/different

Car India is a licensee product of Bauer

BIG SMALL CAR,

India is copyright and no part of the magazine

Editor – Aspi Bhathena Member –

8/CAR INDIA /October 2015 www.carindia.in

AUTOMOTIVE NEWS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD

Story: Jim Gorde Photography: Newspress

10/CAR INDIA /October 2015 www.carindia.in

www.carindia.in October 2015 /CAR INDIA /11

A FRESHER FACE AND UPDATED ENGINES, THE 3 SERIES GET OPTIONAL

12/CAR INDIA /October 2015 www.carindia.in

FERRARI 488 Spider

14/CAR INDIA /October 2015 www.carindia.in

THE TWO-DOOR AVATAR OF THE C-CLASS HAS MORE IN COMMON WITH

MERCEDES S-Class Cabriolet

16/CAR INDIA /October 2015 www.carindia.in

NISSAN NP300 Navara

PORSCHE 911 Carrera / S

18/CAR INDIA /October 2015 www.carindia.in

TOYOTA Prius TOYOTA C-HR Concept

www.carindia.in October 2015 /CAR INDIA /19

ALFA ROMEO Giulia

HONDA Project 2&4

22/CAR INDIA /October 2015 www.carindia.in

www.carindia.in October 2015 /CAR INDIA /23

THE VISION GRAN TURISMO

HYUNDAI N 2025 Vision GT

24/CAR INDIA /October 2015 www.carindia.in

Ferrari launch the California T,

26/CAR INDIA /October 2015 www.carindia.in

Surat is Home to a New Volvo Dealership

www.carindia.in October 2015 /CAR INDIA /27

Hyundai’s New EV? Apollo, Man Utd Extend

28/CAR INDIA /October 2015 www.carindia.in

AUDI A6 35 TFSI MATRIX RENAULT DUSTER EXPLORE EDITION

30/CAR INDIA /October 2015 www.carindia.in

MERCEDES-AMG C 63 S MARUTI SUZUKI CIAZ SHVS

AUDI A3 40 TFSI PREMIUM FORD FIGO

32/CAR INDIA /October 2015 www.carindia.in

34/CAR INDIA /October 2015 www.carindia.in

www.carindia.in October 2015 /CAR INDIA /35

Porsche showcased the brilliant Mission E concept to a charged audience

36/CAR INDIA /October 2015 www.carindia.in

2 WHEELS OF THE FUTURE:

which instrument the driver is viewing. He

www.carindia.in October 2015 /CAR INDIA /37

MACPHERSON STRUT DOUBLE

ESP WITH INTEGRATED INERTIAL SENSORS

38/CAR INDIA /October 2015 www.carindia.in

INDEPENDENT COIL SPRINGS SHOCK-ABSORBER

TRAILING ARM AIR SPRINGS

www.carindia.in October 2015 /CAR INDIA /39

ITH MY HEART Abarth’s iteration of the Punto Evo

40/CAR INDIA /October 2015 www.carindia.in