2013 is going to be the year of some interesting launches, with more than 40 cars planned across various segments. So which cars are the most awaited and could potentially change the game completely? Let’s have a look.
1. Ford EcoSport
Ford has launched the EcoSport in the international market and the Indians are waiting eagerly for the compact SUV to hit the showrooms as soon as possible. Ford has managed to give the EcoSport a proper stance of an SUV despite its sub four-metre length. The compact SUV with its modern design elements boasts a rugged stance. The EcoSport will boast an efficient yet powerful 1.0-litre EcoBoost turbocharged petrol engine producing a peak power output of 120 PS with a peak torque figure of 170 Nm mated to a 5-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmission. Ford will also offer a 1.5-litre diesel engine with the EcoSport but it will be mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox only. The EcoSport is already firing up the compact SUV segment space in the international market. We expect Ford to introduce the EcoSport within a few weeks with an expected price range of Rs. 7-10 lakhs.
2. Honda Amaze
One of the most awaited cars in 2013 is the Honda Amaze compact sedan based on the Brio hatchback. The Amaze will be seen under the 4-metre mark category and will compete head on with the Maruti Suzuki Swift Dzire. The Amaze will be the first diesel car being offered by Honda in India. Honda will unveil the all new India specific 1.5-litre i-DTEC diesel engine with the Amaze. The Honda Amaze will also offer a 1.2-litre i-VTEC petrol unit that produces a peak power of 88 PS. The Amaze looks promising to offer an efficient yet powerful diesel engine with adequate amount of space inside and mature looks compared to other sub 4-metre sedans. We expect Honda to offer the Amaze with an affordable price tag, taking the sub 4-metre sedan segment to a different level.
3. Tata Nano Diesel
With diminishing sales figures every month, the Tata Nano is not doing well in the market despite being the most affordable car in the country. Recently we spotted the diesel variant of the Tata Nano being tested in Pune. Tata Motors is expected to launch the diesel Nano later this year with a slightly updated styling. The Nano will be the first car featuring a diesel engine in its segment and is expected to increase the sales to great extent if the manufacturer manages to price the vehicle aggressively. The Nano Diesel will boast of a frugal engine returning high mileage and churning out adequate power for city runs, which might eat up the sales of its closest rival, the Maruti Suzuki Alto 800.
4. Second Generation Hyundai i10
The Hyundai i10 is known for its peppy performance, fuel efficient engine and feature rich cabin. It was launched back in the year 2007 and it needs a change. Hyundai is working for the next generation i10 which is expected to roll out later this year with a whole new styling. The second generation Hyundai i10 is expected to be powered with an all new 1.1-litre diesel engine along with the 1.2-litre petrol motor, which is currently running under the existing i10. The new i10 is expected to provide more cabin space over the current model boasting the new Hyundai fluidic design language. The second generation Hyundai i10 will take on the likes of Maruti Suzuki Swift, Ford Figo and Honda Brio. It will co-exist with the current i10.
5. Skoda Octavia
Skoda had launched the Octavia in the Indian market in 2000 and the company as well as the car received a great response from Indian customers. Skoda made a big impact on the Indian car market offering a luxury product with solid build quality and impressive performance at an affordable price point. Skoda is now planning to introduce the stunning new latest generation Octavia in the country. The new Octavia is based on Volkswagen’s new MQB platform, which has grown bigger with its dimensions compared to its predecessor, which we know as the Laura. The new Octavia is expected to set the benchmark for its interior space in the segment. The vehicle will be well-equipped with latest high-tech features, some are expected to be first in the segment. The exteriors will boast an all new modern Skoda design language. Engine options are likely to be a 1.8-litre TSI petrol engine and a 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine, mated to a 6-speed manual or DSG automatic transmissions. The new Octavia is expected to be launched in mid-2013 priced from Rs. 14 lakhs.
