The 12th Auto Expo is less then two months away so here's a guide on what to expect at the fairground come February 07, 2014
The Indian car industry is seeing a slowdown making it more important for manufacturers to keep the enthusiasm alive among car buyers. The Auto expo is the perfect platform for car makers to showcase all cars new and refreshed that they have to offer. But you don’t have to wait that long because we’re telling you what’s coming to the Expo right now.
Maruti
There’s going to be a flurry of new cars at Maruti. Hatchbacks like the Cervo, A-Star facelift and Swift facelift are expected as well as the SX4 S-cross compact crossover and the new SX4. Also expect a production version of the XA Alpha concept that was showcased at the last expo in 2012.
Honda
There was nothing new to offer from Honda during the last expo but this time, the Japanese carmaker will have a host of new cars to show starting with the new City that will be launched next month to the Mobilio MPV and the new Jazz. Honda should also have the Vezel crossover on display after its debut at the Tokyo Motor Show. The Vezel has a lot in common between the City and Jazz so economies of scale could tempt Honda into getting this car to India.
Datsun and Nissan
Datsun will be looking to make a big impact at the expo with the Go hatchback and Go+ MPV. Although these cars have been revealed before, Indians for the first time will get to see it in the flesh. Nissan will showcase the new X-Trail.
Renault
The Renault stable could house the Duster facelift and Renault Lodgy MPV. The Duster has been around for 18 months and although it isn't too long, the Nissan Terrano's urban-centric styling is making the Duster look a bit dated and in need of a refresh. Renault's first MPV attempt with the Evalia didn't go down well with Indian car buyers but the Lodgy could change that with its premium image.
Toyota
The Japanese onslaught continues with Toyota. The new Corolla will be showcased and we must say, it looks much better than the current model. Toyota launched the facelifted Innova and Fortuner at the last expo and since then the Innova has received another refresh but the Fortuner hasn’t so expect an update on the Fortuner.
Fiat and Chrysler
There’s going to be a lot to cheer about at the Fiat enclosure. The new Fiat Linea/Viaggio will be displayed at the expo and also Punto and 500 Abarths will be shown. Chrysler will make it to the expo for the first time with Fiat. On display will be the Grand Cherokee, Wrangler 3- and 5-door SUVs.
Volkswagen
Volkswagen’s Up! should be displayed at the Expo with a expected launch sometime in mid-2014. The German carmaker is working hard to price it competitively causing a delay in its launch. The Tiguan and new Beetle could be showcased too.
Skoda
Skoda's Citigo which is essentially a VW Up! under the skin is also expected to be displayed. You might get to see the new Superb too at the Skoda booth. The current Superb is a highly successful model in India and we expect the new model to replicate its success.
Hyundai
India’s second largest car manufacturer we believe will showcase the sub-4-metre Grand i10 sedan and also a production version of the Hexa Space concept it displayed at the last expo. The new Santa Fe will be showcased too and we expect the facelifted Verna to make an appearance.
Tata Motors
The Indian carmaker is expecting to infuse some much needed interest back into the brand with a facelifted Manza sedan and Vista hatchback. The Nano will receive an update too around the Expo.
Chevrolet
After a difficult year with the recalls, a major sacking row, and relatively under-performing Chevrolet badged SAIC products, the American carmaker is facing a tough time. But expect them to keep things fresh at the Expo with a Beat facelift and possibly the Trax compact SUV.
Mahindra
Mahindra will showcase the updated Scorpio at the Expo. SsangYong had a fleet of concepts at the last Expo, soon after Mahindra bought the Korean brand. This time we expect news on India-centric products like the SIV1 compact SUV concept.
Ford
Ford’s bread and butter model, the Figo will be replaced by 2015. We expect the Ford Ka Concept that’s going to be its replacement to be displayed at the Expo.
Audi
We are looking forward to see the new A3 sedan at the Audi enclosure. The A3 is pitted against the CLA from Mercedes, a highly anticipated battle in the entry-luxury market. For those looking at more premium offerings, the S7 and the updated A8 and S8 should satiate your appetite.
Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes will be the manufacturer to watch out for among the luxury car buyers. The all-new S-Class will be displayed and there could be the new C-Class that’s going to be globally revealed this month as well as the CLA-Class.
BMW
At the BMW stable, you could get to see the 3-Series GT and also the new X5. The 3 GT is far better proportioned and practical than the 5-Series GT and should find a lot of admirers at the expo. BMW will also showcase the i3 that will go on sale in India around mid-2014.
Jaguar Land Rover
The recently revealed F-Type Coupe will be displayed by Jaguar and possibly the C-X17 SUV concept. Land Rover will showcase the 2014 Discovery and the 9-speed Range Rover Evoque.
The upcoming expo will be held between February 7-11, 2014 at the India expo-mart in Greater Noida. The new venue for the first time will house only OEMs across the 58 acre fairground.
0 comments: