Mahindra VLX Gets New Features
Mahindra India has added some more spice to the New Muscular Scorpio, it is not a major facelift, they have added some safety and comfort features to top of the line VLX model.
The Scorpio VLX now features:
- Dual SRS front Airbags
- Twin Dial Instrument Panel
- Music System Gets Front Speakers With Built-in Tweeter
- Speed Warning Alert
Prices of New Scorpio:
- New Scorpio LX - Rs. 7.21 lakhs
- New Scorpio SLE - Rs. 8.19 lakhs
- New Scorpio VLX - Rs. 9.35 lakhs
- New Scorpio VLX BSIV Micro Hybrid - Rs. 9.45 lakhs
- New Scorpio VLX Automatic - Rs. 10.23 lakhs
All prices are ex-showroom New Delhi.
[Via: Cars India ]
Royal Enfield Classic Launched In India
The Royal Enfield Bullet has for decades been the byword for rugged, refined cool and a bike handcrafted to perfection. The Bullet Classic was unveiled by Royal Enfield at Intermot exhibition in Germany. They have already launched this mouthwatering classic version of its legendary motorcycle abroad. Bullet Classic was first launched in Germany followed by European launch. But for India Royal Enfield has removed the "Bullet" tag from the name and it is going to be sold as "Royal Enfield Classic" for Indian Market.
The Classic 500 is powered by a 499cc, single cylinder engine which generates maximum power of 27.2 Bhp at 5250 rpm and peak torque of 41.3 Nm at 4000 rpm. And the Classic 350 is powered by a 346cc engine from Thunderbird Twinspark which generates 19.8 Bhp of maximum power at 5250 rpm with 28 Nm of maximum torque to price it competitively in a range of 85-90000 rupees. What is really new in the Royal Enfield Classic is a UCE (Unit Construction Engine). In the Royal Enfield Classic's engine, the clutch and gearbox are situated outside, they are both integrated into the crankcase. Royal Enfield claims that the UCE construction gives the Classic less moving parts, less transmission loss and less maintenance issues.
[Via: Bikes India]
Yamaha ventures into Pakistan
Yamaha Motor President, Takashi Kajikawa made the announcement that the company will be setting up a motorcycle manufacturing facility in Pakistan, to be located at the National Industrial Park in Bin Qasim, near Karachi.
The plant is expected to be up and running by mid-2011. The company plans to assemble at least 22,000 units at its new plant by 2012, following which it will start using locally sourced components to start manufacturing bikes in that country. Mr Kajikawa has also stated that the company intends to make Pakistan a base for exports to neighboring Asian and African countries in the coming future. Come 2017, Yamaha will also start production of motorcycle engines in the country.
In India too, Yamaha is growing by leaps and bounds at an unprecedented rate. The company posted staggering growth of 160 percent in sales in September 2009 as compared to the last year. It sold 26394 units in September 2009 as against 10142 units in the same month last year with the newly launched Fazer contributing a significant part of it.
[Via: BIKE]
Mahindra Launches All New Compact Truck “Gio”
Press Release - Mahindra & Mahindra India
Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (M&M), a leading player in the small Commercial Vehicle segment in India, today launched the Mahindra Gio, India‟s first 4 wheel 0.5 ton Compact Truck. A category creating vehicle in the cargo commercial vehicle segment, the Mahindra Gio combines the style, status, comfort and safety of a four wheeler with the low operating and maintenance cost of a three-wheeler. The Mahindra Gio is available at an amazing price of Rs. 1.65 lakh, ex showroom BSII; BSIII price is Rs 1.68 Lakh. Equipped with a high performance 9.1 HP Kohler engine, from Kohler, USA, the Mahindra Gio gives best-in-class mileage of 27 km per litre.
"With the launch of Mahindra Gio, we have created a new Compact Truck category in the commercial vehicle segment. The Mahindra Gio is the first of its kind entry level 4 wheel cargo vehicle, and is all set to change the dynamics of the small CV segment. As city limits gradually expand and distribution needs increase, the Mahindra Gio presents a high earning potential for customers who will benefit from its high mileage, low maintenance cost, optimum utilization of space and low acquisition cost," said Dr. Pawan Goenka, President, Automotive Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.

The Mahindra Gio has undergone rigorous test runs and has been validated on all performance, safety and reliability parameters. This brand new offering from Mahindra‟s commercial vehicle stable also boasts of several class leading features, including the best-in-class fuel efficiency, "car like‟ controls and features, and a trendy & stylish look. This value for money load carrier scores highly on various parameters, including affordability, space, comfort and safety. It is also the most economical vehicle in the small CV industry, making it ideal for intra city operations.
The Mahindra Gio is being manufactured in Mahindra‟s Haridwar plant and is being launched in a phased manner. It will be available initially in West, North and select Eastern states and shortly thereafter in the rest of the country.

Perfect for intra city movement - The Mahindra Gio is most suitable for intra city operations. Its compact 0.5 ton cargo box ensures maximum utilization of space. A small turning radius of 3.8 metres, dashboard mounted gear shifter and "car like‟ steering wheel allows this nifty 4 wheel load carrier to negotiate the narrowest of roads with ease.
Exceptional value for money - India‟s first Compact Truck is powered by a high performance 9.1 HP Kohler engine, from Kohler, USA, which provides class leading mileage of 27 Kmpl. The Mahindra Gio also offers exceptional value for money with a low maintenance cost which is as low as that of a three wheeler. These features, coupled with an attractive price tag and better load optimization make the Mahindra Gio a great purchase.
Cares for your comfort and safety - Mahindra Gio offers greater comfort even on long trips. This stylish Compact Truck boasts of several class defining features, including adjustable cushioned bucket seats, roll down windows offering more ventilation and a car like Macpherson front suspension, ensuring comfortable ride and handling.
A tall and wide cabin with extra leg room allows easy entry and exit, adding to overall comfort. Easy to operate car like controls and an easy to read instrument panel enhance the Mahindra Gio‟s driving pleasure. A semi-forward cabin with a crumple zone makes the Mahindra Gio a safe vehicle, while a balanced structure provides more stability leading to a safer drive. Multi focal reflector halogen lights, side indicators and bigger rear view mirrors offer optimum visibility.
Strong performance - A strong gear box - 4 forward and 1 reverse -, coupled with the powerful Kohler engine gives the Mahindra Gio good pickup & load carrying capacity, while spring leaf suspension with a rigid axle enhances load stability. The load body comprises of a fully corrugated 5ft cargo box which is strong and long lasting.
Attractive style - The Mahindra Gio doesn‟t just deliver on performance and economy. It is also one of the most stylish vehicles in its class. The signature Mahindra front grille on the flat front cabin adds a distinctly macho look to this smart Compact Truck. Five youthful shades - Peacock Blue, Royal Red, Golden Yellow, and Sporty Green ensure that the Mahindra Gio cuts a striking figure on city road.
New Honda Aviator 110 Launched
After the huge success of New Honda Activa now Honda India has launched New Aviator 110 to compete with the likes of recently launched Mahindra Rodeo & Mahindra Duro. When Honda launched the New Activa with a 109cc engine, it was obvious that they would soon launch the Aviator with same 109cc engine. The 109cc engine is super refined, has absolutely no transmission judder and is also a tad more fuel efficient.
The engine of New Aviator 110 generates maximum power of 8 Bhp at 7500 rpm with maximum torque of 9 Nm at 5500 rpm. New Aviator will be available in two model:
- New Aviator 110
- New Aviator 110 Deluxe
The basic model of Aviator 110 has been priced at Rs 42,000.00 which the deluxe model will retail for Rs. 47,000.00. These prices are Ex-showroom New Delhi. The price of Aviator 110 Deluxe model is Rs. 6,000.00 more than the Activa Deluxe but Aviator 110 is definitely a much better scooter than the Activa as it offers better suspension, better brakes and alloy wheels.
- New Aviator 110 ----------- Rs. 42,000.00
- New Aviator 110 Deluxe - Rs. 47,000.00
Royal Enfield Bullet Classic 500 To Be Launched On 4th November
The Royal Enfield Bullet has for decades been the byword for rugged, refined cool and a bike handcrafted to perfection. The Bullet Classic 500 was unveiled by Royal Enfield at Intermot exhibition in Germany.
They have already launched this mouthwatering classic version of its legendary motorcycle abroad. Bullet Classic was first launched in Germany followed by European launch. It is expected that it is going to be launched in India on 4th November, 2009.
Main Styling Elements Of Bullet Classic 500
- Traditional looking front number plate
- Classic style round headlamp
- Visible steel springs
- Deep-drawn fenders of the rear tire
- 18" Spoke Wheels
- Fuel tank with post war graphics
- Thigh pads and single saddle seat with springs
- Body colored frame
Main Technical Highlights Of Bullet Classic 500:
- 280mm Front Disc brake
- 5-speed Gearbox
- UCE (Unit Construction Engine)
- 27.2 Bhp of Maximum Power
- Peak Torque of 41.3 Nm
- Electronic Fuel Injection System
Though no official launch date and price has been announced for Bullet Classic 500 but it is expected to be launched in India on 4th November, 2009 and is expected to retail for around Rs. 135000.00.
Upgraded Maruti Suzuki SX4 Launched
Maruti had launched Maruti SX4 in May 2007 to compete with the likes of Honda City which is the most popular and successful sedan in its segment. But Maruti SX4 could not compete with City's superior technology and brand image. At the time of launch SX4 has been very well recieved by indian customers, as it was a true value for money sedan which comes fully loaded with all the features at a very affordable price. But with the launch of 2009 model of Honda City, the sales of SX4 started to decline.

Now Maruti Suzuki India is back with new improved SX4 to make the deal better in comparison to Honda City, Ford Fiesta, Chevrolet Aveo & Hyundai Verna. They have plonked new 1.6 VVT engine in SX4 so that it complies with the strict emission norms which will be in effect from April, 2011 in 11 cities in India.

The new engine is a 1600cc VVT(Variable Valve Timing) powerplant producing 106 Bhp. Maruti has also given some cosmetic design upgrades to the exterior and interiors to make it look more muscular and smart in comparison to Fiat Linea and Honda City. Facelift is a regular one including new front grille, new alloys and spruced up interiors. ARAI has also announced the mileage figures of new SX4 - the manual version willl return 15.5 kmpl while the automatic variant is expected to return 12.5 kmpl.
Main Additions & Features Of New Maruti SX4
- Upgraded 1.6 Litre engine with VVT head which now develops 106 bhp. It also meets the Bharat IV norms
- All New Brown/Beige Interiors
- USB Input for the Dash Integrated Music System
- Wooden finish door mounted power window console
- Flush fitting central rear seat arm rest
- New Honeycomb Grille
- New 10 spoke 16" alloy wheels
- Automatic Transmission Option
Toyota SAI launched at Tokyo Motor Show
Launched at the Tokyo motor show, the long rumoured SAI, which at one point was being considered for Europe, comes in above the Prius as Toyota's new 2.4-litre, front-drive hybrid saloon. Essentially, a reworked version of the Lexus HS250h that's already on sale in the US and Japan, SAI has the same overall profile with those long, sloping A and C pillars and broad shoulder lines running along the top of the doors.

But Toyota has made the SAI almost four inches shorter and up to 70 kgs lighter than the HS250h. The SAI also get subtly different head and tail light treatment, new grille, bonnet, wings and so on. Power comes from the same 2.4-litre hybrid system as the HS. This sees Toyota's long running 2362 cc four cylinder engine (now with Atkinson cycle) team up with an electric motor and reduction gear, with nickel-metal hydride battery pack mounted beneath the boot floor. Total system power stands at 140 kW (or 187bhp).
Curiously, although it's smaller and lighter, the SAI registers the exact same super frugal 56-65mpg as the more plush HS250h in Japan's economy cycle, while C02 is an equally impressive 101-107g/km. Inside, the SAI is clearly a lot plainer and less fancy than the HS250h. Prices start at around Rs 18 lakh for the base model, and Rs 22 lakh for a top spec one in the UK.

Further afield, although Toyota won't confirm it, the SAI's 2.4-litre hybrid is also expected to drop into the upcoming Lexus compact premium hatch, due in 2011, that Japanese sources suggest may be called CT200h. At Frankfurt, Lexus gave an early pointer to this new premium A3 challenging hybrid player, of course, via the LF-Ch concept which may also spawn an SUV.
[Via: autocarindia]