New Cars 2013

Chevrolet Beat facelift

Its funky design may still be as striking as ever, but the Beat is due to get its first styling update sometime in 2013. As part of the refresh, the Beat will get reprofiled bumpers, a larger honeycomb grille and different wing mirrors, apart from tweaks to the front and rear lights. The mechanicals are likely to remain unchanged though.

FACTFILE
Engine: 1.2-litre petrol, 1.0-litre diesel
Power/torque: 79bhp/10.9kgm, 58.5bhp/15.2kgm
Kerb weight: 965-1027kg
L/W/H: 3640/1595/1520mm
Expected: Mid-2013
Price: Rs 3.8-5.7 lakh*

Fiat Punto Evo

Free from its unsuccessful sales and service tie-up with Tata Motors, Fiat now needs fresh products to get customers back into its showrooms. And the Punto Evo could be just the right model to get the ball rolling. With a new front bumper, different grille and reworked head- and tail-lights, it looks quite different from the Punto on sale today. The European car also gets a new dashboard, though it is not certain whether this will make it onto the India-spec version. All other mechanicals are likely to be carried on from before, though.

FACTFILE
Engine: 1.2-litre petrol, 1.4-litre petrol, 1.3-litre diesel, 1.3-litre diesel
Power/torque: 67bhp/9.76kgm, 89bhp/11.67kgm, 75bhp/20.08kgm, 90bhp/21.3kgm
Kerb weight: 1090-1144kg
L/W/H: 3987/1687/1495mm
Expected: Mid-2013
Price: Rs 5-7.5 lakh*

Hyundai New i10

Hyundai's i10 may no longer be the massive seller that it once was, but that could change with the arrival of the new model in September 2013. Spied testing near Chennai, the new car (codename: BA) appears to be both longer and wider than the current i10, which points to a more spacious cabin. The camouflaged test car's swept-back headlamps, hexagonal cues in the region of the front grille and rising shoulder line also hint that the new i10 will conform to Hyundai's 'Fluidic Sculpture' design language. Engine options will include the variable valve timing-equipped 1.2-litre Kappa petrol motor from the current i10 and also a new 1.0-litre petrol unit from the same engine family. But what will seriously boost the i10's appeal is the new 1.1-litre common-rail diesel engine currently under-development at Hyundai. A lengthy features list and competitive pricing should mark this out as one of the cars to wait for in 2013. A compact saloon based on the new i10 is also believed to be under development.

FACTFILE
Engine: 1.0-litre petrol, 1.2-litre petrol, 1.1-litre diesel
Power/torque: NA, 79bhp/11.4kgm, NA
Kerb weight: NA
L/W/H: NA
Expected: September 2013
Price: Rs 3.5-6 lakh*

Mahindra E2O

At long last, the follow-up to India's first electric car, the next-gen Reva, is ready to go on sale in November 2012 in all probability as the Mahindra E20. In case you are wondering, this is the production version of the Reva NXR concept from a few years ago, though the new name is likely to follow Reva-owner Mahindra's tradition to end car names with an 'O'. To be manufactured at Mahindra's new plant at Bangalore, this all-new electric car will come with an electric motor that derives power from 48-volt lithium-ion batteries capable of powering the car for about 100km on a single charge. Mahindra sees promise in this project and is considering leasing out the batteries which are an expensive component to replace. With prices likely to range from Rs 5.5-6 lakh, India's latest EV won't be cheap but sops on electric cars could bring prices down in the future.

FACTFILE
Engine: Electric
Power/torque: NA
Kerb weight: 850kg*
L/W/H: NA
Expected: November 2012
Price: Rs 5.5-6 lakh*

Maruti A-star facelift

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The slow-selling Maruti A-Star is scheduled to receive a fairly comprehensive makeover in 2013.
On display at the recent Chengdu Motor Show in China (where it is sold as the Alto), the updated car looks a lot more grown up than the current model. It gets larger and more angular headlamps that flow into a new grille and also different front and rear bumpers. Changes to the cabin are likely to be restricted to new upholstery only, and the K10 engine will carry on unaltered.

FACTFILE
Engine: 1.0-litre petrol
Power/torque: 66bhp/9kgm
Kerb weight: 895kg
L/W/H: 3500/1600/1490mm
Expected: Mid-2013
Price: Rs 3.7-4.5 lakh*

Tata Nano variants

Tata will follow the Nano 2012 up with further upgrades to the car in 2013. Chief among these will be the option of power steering, which will address one of the Nano's key weaknesses. A compact electric power-steering unit fitted under the steering column will make the Nano easier to drive. Among other likely additions are a hinged tailgate, alloy wheels and a dedicated glove compartment on the dashboard. You can expect this fully loaded version of the Nano to cost around Rs 25,000 more than the top LX variant. Tata will also launch the Nano with a CNG kit in the coming year, though the hugely anticipated diesel Nano is unlikely to make production before 2014. 

FACTFILE
Engine: 0.6-litre petrol
Power/torque: 37.4bhp/5.2kgm
Kerb weight: 635kg
L/W/H: 3099/1495/1652mm
Expected: Early-2013
Price: Rs 2.2 lakh*

Volkswagen Polo Auto

Polo sales haven't quite matched up to Volkswagen's expectations. VW wants to turn things around, and the recent update that saw the top-end Highline variants get added kit and a price cut was only the start. The manufacturer is now readying an automatic version of the petrol car. If that doesn't have you interested, the fact that this version will get a 1.2-litre TSI turbocharged engine and a seven-speed dual-clutch DSG gearbox (codename DQ200) certainly will. Power will see a spike up to 104bhp, making this the most powerful hatchback in its class, and thanks to the dual-clutch 'box, fuel economy shouldn't be bad either. Given the tech on offer, expect the Polo auto to cost at least Rs 1 lakh more than the petrol manual Highline. Further down the road, VW will also give the Polo a downsized 1.5-litre version of the Vento's diesel engine, but it won't be available anytime before 2014.

FACTFILE
Engine: 1.2-litre turbo-petrol
Power/torque: 104bhp/24.2kgm
Kerb weight: NA
L/W/H:3970/1682/1453mm
Expected: March 2013
Price: Rs 8 lakh*

* Estimated, ex-showroom, Delhi

Mercedes-Benz A-class

Following the recent launch of the B-class, Mercedes will continue its charge down the price ladder with the introduction of the latest A-class hatchback. The new A-class is free from the 'tall boy' stance of its predecessors and, in that sense, looks more conventional. However, the new car seems designed for a younger customer base and looks really sporty and aggressive in the flesh. Its cabin is also far sportier and even space is surprisingly good. Like the B-class, the new A is underpinned by Merc's new front-wheel-drive MFA platform and thanks to some clever engineering, it is really fun to drive. The electric power steering is the only weak link on the dynamics front really. Mercedes will equip the A-class with a 121bhp 1.6-litre turbo petrol and a 1.8-litre diesel, both of which will come mated to seven-speed dual-clutch gearboxes. With prices likely to start from Rs 18 lakh, the A-class will be a stellar entry point to the Mercedes brand.

FACTFILE
Engine: 1.6-litre turbo-petrol, 1.8-litre diesel
Power/torque: 121bhp/20.4kgm, 134bhp/30.55kgm
Kerb weight: 1370kg
L/W/H: 4292/1780/1433mm
Expected: Mid-2013
Price: Rs 18 lakh*

Volkswagen New Beetle

Bigger and better than the model it replaces, the latest Beetle could be on its way to India in 2013. The retro-chic styling has evolved, the cabin is more spacious and the new underpinnings promise to make it better to drive too. Engine options could include a 158bhp 1.4-litre petrol and even a 138bhp 2.0-litre diesel. That should give the new Beetle enough ammo to take on the Mini Cooper – its only rival in the niche high-end hatchback market. Cute and cheerful as it may be, the new Beetle will cost serious money, with pricing in the region of Rs 25 lakh.

FACTFILE
Engine: 1.4-litre turbo-petrol, 2.0-litre diesel
Power/torque: 158bhp/24.5kgm, 138bhp/32.6kgm
Kerb weight: 1360kg
L/W/H: 4278/2021/2048mm
Expected: Mid-2013
Price: Rs 25 lakh*

Volkswagen Cross Polo

Mini-SUVs are the next gold rush for manufacturers, and even Volkswagen has plans to enter the segment in December 2013 with the launch of the attractive Polo-based crossover. As is evident in the picture, the Cross Polo looks like a rugged version of the standard Polo hatch, and much of its appeal stems from the plastic cladding on the lower portion of the bumpers and doors, its smartly finished roof rails and, of course, those 17-inch wheels. On the inside, different upholstery will distinguish this car from the standard Polo. The Cross Polo will be the first VW product to get the new, made-for-India 1.5-litre diesel engine. A 1.2-litre TSI turbo-petrol mated to a seven-speed DSG auto could be an option as well. A Rs 6-8 lakh price-tag seems realistic for this crossover.

FACTFILE
Engine: 1.2-litre turbo-petrol, 1.5-litre diesel
Power/torque: 104bhp/24.2kgm, NA
Kerb weight: 1171kg
L/W/H: 3970/1682/1462mm
Expected: December 2013
Price: Rs 6-8 lakh*

Ford EcoSport

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Ford Sees tremendous potential in the burgeoning mini-SUV segment and its EcoSport is just the product for the job. Striking in the flesh, the production version – due for an India launch in early 2013 – looks very similar to the concept that was premiered at this year's Auto Expo. That means the car carries an imposing gaping grille, high bonnet-line and attractive wraparound rear windscreen. Most importantly, it looks like a proper SUV despite its sub-four-metre length. Even the cabin is quite funky, and comes with decent space. What's great is that the EcoSport is just as good to drive as it is to look at. Built on Ford's global B-platform that also underpins the latest Fiesta, the EcoSport feeds on corners, and the ride quality is quite accomplished. To be sold with the 1.5-litre diesel from the Fiesta, the EcoSport will also mark the Indian debut of Ford's 1.0-litre EcoBoost turbocharged, direct-injection petrol motor that promises to offer the performance of a 1.6 petrol with the efficiency of a smaller-capacity engine. The best bit? The EcoSport's length and engine displacement qualify it as a small car, so pricing is expected at a very competitive Rs 7-9 lakh. We can't wait!

FACTFILE
Engine: 1.0-litre turbo-petrol, 1.5-litre diesel
Power/torque: 123bhp/17.2kgm, 88.7bhp/20.8kgm
Kerb weight: 1243kg
L/W/H: NA/2060/1670mm
Expected: Early-2013
Price: Rs 7-9 lakh*

Maruti mini-SUV

As the interesting XA-Alpha concept from the Auto Expo made quite obvious, Maruti is developing its own mini-SUV, which could go on sale in the latter part of 2013. To be built on the Swift platform, the SUV will be a clean-sheet design and will come with lots of butch SUV elements. For starters, the SUV will have very short front and rear overhangs, which are also essential to keep length under the four-metre mark. The concept's high-set five-block grille, heavy frontal cladding, oversized wheel arches and thick C-pillar are some of the other interesting design elements we expect to see on the production model. To keep costs in check, the new SUV could come with the Swift's dashboard. Maruti will offer the production XA-Alpha with its range of K-series petrol engines and 1.3-litre DDiS diesel engine and there will be a four-wheel-drive version too. It will be interesting to see how Maruti prices its own mini-SUV vis-à-vis the Ford EcoSport.

FACTFILE
Engine: 1.2-litre petrol, 1.3-litre diesel
Power/torque: 86bhp/11.6kgm, 88.7bhp/20.4kgm
Kerb weight: NA
L/W/H: NA
Expected: End-2013
Price: Rs 7 lakh*

Nissan SUV

Nissan's model range is set to receive a fillip with the introduction of a new Renault Duster-based small SUV. Remember, Renault and Nissan are alliance partners and have succesfully badge-engineered each other's products in India. The Pulse and Scala are, in effect, Renault's versions of Nissan's Micra and Sunny respectively. While the new Nissan SUV will adopt the Duster's broad-shouldered basic design, it will differ from its Renault sibling with a restyled front-end, a new tailgate and possibly even some changes to the sheet metal. Changes to the cabin are likely to be minimal to keep costs in check and even the engines will be the same as on the Duster. The good news is, as per Renault-Nissan's pricing structure, the new SUV will be cheaper than the Duster by a few thousands at the very least.

FACTFILE
Engine: 1.6-litre petrol, 1.5-litre diesel, 1.5-litre diesel
Power/torque: 102.5bhp/14.8kgm, 84bhp/20.4kgm, 108.5bhp/25.3kgm
Kerb weight: 1160-1308kg
L/W/H: 4315/1822/1695mm
Expected: August 2013
Price: Rs 7.5-11.5 lakh*

* Estimated, ex-showroom, Delhi

BMW X1 facelift

The launch of the Audi Q3 has seriously hurt BMW X1 sales in India. So you can be pretty sure BMW will step on the gas and bring in the facelifted X1 to India by January 2013. While the updated model retains the current X1's basic design, it gets a more contoured front bumper with a completely redesigned lower section, as well as a slightly restyled rear bumper. Changes to the cabin are limited to a mildly reworked centre console, but higher quality materials should enhance the ambience inside. Let's hope BMW also addresses the X1's heavy steering with the update. 

FACTFILE
Engine: 2.0-litre petrol, 2.0-litre diesel
Power/torque: 150bhp/20.4kgm, 177bhp/35.7kgm
Kerb weight: 1500-1530kg
L/W/H: 4454/1798/1545mm
Expected: January 2013
Price: Rs 28-38 lakh*

Ford New Endeavour

 

The Endeavour that sells in India is essentially an SUV version of Ford's Ranger pickup from the Thai market. With the new Ranger already on sale overseas, it's only a matter of time before the new Endeavour breaks cover. In terms of design, the new Endeavour will look far more modern than the current model and even the cabin will benefit from a smarter design and better materials. Ford could also use the Endeavour as a launchpad for its new 148bhp 2.2-litre TDCi diesel engine in India, and this motor could be offered with six-speed manual and automatic gearboxes. What is all but certain is that with the new model, the Endeavour will lose the current price advantage it has over its rivals. 

FACTFILE
Engine: 2.2-litre diesel
Power/torque: 148bhp/38.2kgm
Kerb weight: NA
L/W/H: NA
Expected: Late-2013
Price: Rs 22 lakh*

Honda New CR-V

First things first, the new Honda CR-V that is headed to India in January 2013 will not be available with a diesel engine, at least at the time of launch. If you are still interested, you should know that the latest CR-V looks like an evolution of the current car both inside and out. However, the easily identifiable shape is more aerodynamic and the cabin airier than before. Then there is the improved chassis stiffness that promises to enhance the CR-V's already renowned dynamics, though the new electric power steering could be a dampener here. The powertrains are likely to be carried on from the current model. A word of caution here – since it's a full-import like the current model, the new CR-V won't be cheap with an expected price-tag of around Rs 28 lakh.

FACTFILE
Engine: 2.4-litre petrol, 2.0-litre petrol
Power/torque: 185bhp/22.5kgm, 148bhp/19.6kgm
Kerb weight: 1500kg
L/W/H: 4528/1818/1654mm
Expected: January 2013
Price: Rs 28 lakh*

Hyundai New Santa Fe

Hyundai's latest Santa Fe is out and it's headed to India by mid-2013. Edgier, sharper and sportier, the new SUV's design is a big departure from the current model's tepid styling. It's more of the same on the inside as well, with the new layered dashboard design among the highlights. The Santa Fe for India will sport an identical 2700mm wheelbase as the current model, but thanks to a larger rear overhang, space for third-row passengers will see an improvement. As before, the Santa Fe will be powered by a 2.2-litre diesel. While power and torque figures remain unchanged, the engine comes with tweaks for better efficiency and emissions. Hyundai could also bring in a smaller, 2.0-litre 'R' diesel engine to try and give the SUV a better entry price-point. With an estimated price of Rs 24-25 lakh, the new Santa Fe looks set to build on the outgoing car's strengths. 

FACTFILE
Engine: 2.2-litre diesel
Power/torque: 194bhp/42.9kgm
Kerb weight: 1820kg
L/W/H: 4902/1885/1690mm
Expected:  Mid-2013
Price: Rs 24-25 lakh*

Jeep Grand Cherokee

Given the huge popularity of SUVs in India, it was only a matter of time before American SUV icon Jeep took the plunge into our market. The manufacturer, that is part of the Chrysler Group (now owned by Fiat), is studying the possibility of bringing in its line-up of SUVs to the country – starting with the attractive Grand Cherokee. Exterior styling carries the tough and rugged ethos of the Jeep brand, while its spacious cabin is quite attractive too. Powering the model for India will be a 3.0-litre common-rail V6 diesel engine that will come mated to a five-speed automatic gearbox. In keeping with its go-anywhere appeal, the SUV will also get a low-ratio transfer case as well as Jeep's Selec-Terrain off-road electronics. Interestingly, the Grand Cherokee is built on the same monocoque platform as the Mercedes M-class owing to Daimler's earlier ownership of Chrysler, and this should translate to good on-road dynamics too. Jeep officials are aware that importing the Grand Cherokee could price it out of contention, so don't be surprised if it is assembled in India by Fiat and launched under Rs 40 lakh.

FACTFILE
Engine: 3.0-litre diesel
Power/torque: 237bhp/56.1kgm
Kerb weight: 2272kg
L/W/H: 4821/1943/1760mm
Expected: End-2013
Price: Rs 40 lakh*

Volvo V40 Cross Country

Among the many international launches at last month's Paris Motor Show was the Volvo V40 Cross Country, a model that will go on sale in India in March 2013. Volvo's weapon against the BMW X1 and Audi Q3, the Cross Country crossover is based on the Swedish carmaker's V40 hatchback. However, ground clearance has been raised to 173mm and the car has also been given a beefier body kit for a tough look. When it comes to India, the Cross Country is likely to feature the 163bhp 2.0-litre diesel D3 engine in a front-wheel-drive format. Internationally, all-wheel drive will only be offered with the petrol T5 engine that may make it here at a later stage. Volvo could price the V40 Cross Country at around Rs 30 lakh but is likely to brim it with equipment to make it more attractive than its German competition.

FACTFILE
Engine: 2.0-litre diesel
Power/torque: 163bhp/40.8kgm
Kerb weight: 1578kg
L/W/H: 4369/1802/1420mm
Expected: March 2013
Price: Rs 30 lakh*

* Estimated, ex-showroom, Delhi

Audi Q5 facelift

The facelifted Q5 is expected to come to India in January 2013.  Changes to styling will be minimal and will include a hexagonal shape for the front grille, new LED daytime running lights and a different front bumper with new chrome fog-lamp shrouds. The tail-lights will also get revised LED detailing and there will be a new rear diffuser too. The current range of Q5 engines will continue with the facelift, but could be tweaked for improved power and efficiency.

FACTFILE
Engine: 2.0-litre petrol, 2.0-litre diesel, 3.0-litre diesel
Power/torque: 211bhp/35.7kgm, 170bhp/35.7kgm, 240bhp/51kgm
Kerb weight: 1865kg
L/W/H: 4629/1880/1653mm
Expected: January 2013
Price: Rs 42-50 lakh*

BMW X6 facelift

BMW's part sportscar-part SUV, the X6, has gone under the knife recently. The facelifted model, which should be available in India in the coming months, gets a more pronounced kidney grille, relocated front fog lights that now sit higher up in the air inlets and new horizontal LED strips in the tail-lights. The current engine options – the 4.4-litre V8 petrol and 3.0-litre diesel – are likely to continue unaltered, but could be mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox in place of the current six-speeder.

FACTFILE
Engine: 4.4-litre petrol, 3.0-litre diesel
Power/torque: 402bhp/61.2kgm, 241bhp/55kgm
Kerb weight: 2190kg
L/W/H: 4877/1983/1699mm
Expected: December 2012
Price: Rs 77 lakh – Rs 1 crore*

Land Rover Freelander 2 facelift

Capable and comfortable as it is, the Land Rover Freelander 2 is getting a bit long in the tooth. New competitors like the BMW X3 and Volvo XC60 have made this all the more obvious. Just as well then that the Freelander will be refreshed in mid-2013. While exterior styling changes will be restricted to detailing on the lights and a new finish to the front grille, the majority of the updates will be to the cabin. Chief among these will be a revised dashboard that will now come dominated by a seven-inch touchscreen for the new Meridian audio system and other controls, and also new switches in place of the Terrain Response rotary controller. Expect this update to be accompanied by a small hike in prices.

FACTFILE
Engine: 2.2-litre diesel, 2.2-litre diesel
Power/torque: 148bhp/42.8kgm, 187bhp/42.8kgm
Kerb weight: 1880kg
L/W/H: 4500/2195/1740mm
Expected: Mid-2013
Price: Rs 38-44 lakh*

New Range Rover

The Range Rover has always been the benchmark for luxury SUVs, but in its latest avatar, it could push the goalpost even further. Styling may be evolutionary but the new Rangie is larger, lighter and more luxurious than before. Crucially, for chauffeur-driven Indian buyers, there is even more space in the rear seat thanks to a larger wheelbase. The new Range Rover, that will be available with a 5.0-litre supercharged V8 petrol and a pair of twin-turbo diesels, a 255bhp 3.0 V6 and a 335bhp 4.4 V8, promises to be more efficient and better to drive too. A lot of that is down to its use of an aluminium monocoque (a first for an SUV) that has resulted in a massive 420kg reduction in weight and increase in stiffness compared to the outgoing model. What will remain unchanged though will be its exorbitant price-tag. Expect fully loaded Rangies to cost as much as Rs 2 crore when launched in India in January 2013.

FACTFILE
Engine: 5.0-litre petrol, 3.0-litre diesel, 4.4-litre diesel
Power/torque: 504bhp/63.7kgm, 255bhp/61.1kgm, 335bhp/71.3kgm
Kerb weight: 2160-2330kg
L/W/H: 4999/2073/1835mm
Expected: January 2013
Price: Rs 1.4 crore onwards*

Honda Brio saloon

Honda will expand on its Brio platform with the launch of a new saloon variant in India by mid-2013. While the Brio saloon will be significantly longer than the hatchback, overall length will be under the four-metre mark to allow Honda to avail of the lower excise duty on small cars. The Brio saloon will also feature larger rear doors and should offer slightly more rear-seat space than its hatchback sibling. Luggage space will see a significant improvement too.

There's more – the Brio saloon will be the first car to feature Honda's all-new diesel engine that has been developed specifically for the Indian market. This 1.5-litre engine will be available in two states of tune and will eventually power a whole host of Honda cars in the future. The saloon will also be offered with the Brio's 1.2-litre petrol motor. Expect an aggressive Rs 6 lakh starting price for Honda's Dzire-beater.

FACTFILE
Engine: 1.2-litre petrol, 1.5 diesel
Power/torque: 86.7bhp/11.1kgm, NA
Kerb weight: NA
L/W/H: NA
Expected: Mid-2013
Price: Rs 6-7.5 lakh*

Mahindra Verito sub-4m

Mahindra's recent updates to the Verito have made it a far nicer car, and with the launch of a new sub-four-metre variant in March 2013, it is all set to become a lot more affordable too. As you'd have guessed, the length reduction is to qualify this variant of the Verito for excise duty sops offered on small cars. A truncated boot section and possibly a different front bumper will differentiate this car from the standard Verito. While luggage space will not be as generous, the new mini-saloon will inherit the Verito's spacious cabin, tough build and excellent ride quality. Mahindra will sell the sub-four-metre Verito with the Renault-sourced 1.5-litre dCi diesel engine only. Pricing will be aggressive and could undercut the Maruti Dzire's, which would make this a seriously well-rounded value proposition.

FACTFILE
Engine: 1.5-litre diesel
Power/torque: 65bhp/16.3kgm
Kerb weight: NA
L/W/H: NA
Expected: March 2013
Price: Rs 6 lakh*

Tata Manza CS

Tata knows all too well how successful a formula it is to chop a mid-size saloon's boot to bring length under the crucial sub-four-metre mark to avail of the consequent excise duty benefits on small cars. Its sub-four-metre Indigo CS has been selling well since its launch, and Tata will hope to emulate this success with the Manza CS too that arrives in late 2013. In its CS form, the Manza will feature a substantially smaller boot section and is likely to get the Vista's 1.2-litre petrol and 1.3-litre diesel engines. Pricing will be competitive and will allow Tata to plug the gap between the Indigo CS and the regular Manza. 

FACTFILE
Engine: 1.2-litre petrol, 1.3-litre diesel
Power/torque: 65bhp/9.8kgm, 74bhp/19.3kgm
Kerb weight: NA
L/W/H: NA
Expected: End-2013
Price: Rs 6-7.5 lakh*

* Estimated, ex-showroom, Delhi

Chevrolet Sail

Chevrolet wants a strong presence in every segment of the Indian car market and to this end the manufacturer will launch the Sail mid-size saloon in early 2013. Just like its hatchback sibling, the styling both inside and out is on the conservative side. However, its spacious cabin will give it an edge over the Maruti Swift Dzire, which should be its chief rival. Like the U-VA, the Sail will be powered by a 1.3-litre diesel engine and will also share its 1.2-litre petrol engine. Interestingly, Chevrolet will not offer a 1.4-litre petrol on the Sail as earlier believed. With the promise of excellent ride quality, decent comfort and prices ranging from an estimated Rs 6-7.5 lakh, the Sail could just ruffle the established order in the lower end of the mid-size saloon segment.

FACTFILE
Engine: 1.2-litre petrol, 1.3-litre diesel
Power/torque: 85bhp/11.52kgm, 77bhp/20.9kgm
Kerb weight: 1095kg
L/W/H: 4249/1690/1505mm
Expected: Early 2013
Price: Rs 6-7.5 lakh*

Fiat Linea facelift

The turkish market received the updated Linea earlier this year and Fiat is planning to bring it to India in 2013. As part of its mid-life makeover, the Linea will get a new grille and a completely redesigned front bumper with lots of chrome embellishments. The tail is quite different too, with the most notable changes being the respositioning of the number plate from the bumper to the bootlid and the addition of a thick strip of chrome lower down. While the update also brings with it a new dashboard overseas, this is unlikely to make it to India. Expect the refreshed Linea to be accompanied by a small bump up in prices.

FACTFILE
Engine: 1.4-litre petrol, 1.4-litre turbo petrol, 1.3-litre diesel
Power/torque: 88bhp/11.7kgm, 112bhp/21.1kgm, 92bhp/21.31kgm
Kerb weight: 1180-1230kg
L/W/H: 4560/1730/1487mm
Expected: End-2013
Price: Rs 7.5-10 lakh*

Ford Fiesta facelift

Last month's Paris Motor Show saw the unveiling of the facelifted Ford Fiesta hatchback. We expect many of the styling updates to trickle down to the saloon version as well. Leading the list of changes is a larger hexagonal grille, in keeping with Ford's new global design language. The headlights are slightly different too, while new creases give the bonnet more definition. This visual makeover could also be accompanied by the fitment of the tech-laden 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol motor that will eventually be offered on all of Ford's small and mid-size cars.  

FACTFILE 
Engine: 1.0-litre petrol, 1.5-litre petrol, 1.5-litre diesel
Power/torque: 123bhp/17.2kgm, 107bhp/14.2kgm, 88.7bhp/20.8kgm
Kerb weight: 1117-1157kg
L/W/H: 4291/1722/1496mm
Expected: End-2013
Price: Rs 7.5-11.5 lakh*

New Maruti Saloon

Maruti may have an expansive product line but believes there is still room for another saloon that can slot between the Dzire and SX4. This new saloon will not be under four metres and will come with a full-sized boot. Details about this new saloon are still sketchy but what the grapevine tells us is that this car will be built on a completely new platform and will have a new design language as well. What is safe to assume is that this new saloon will come with the same 1.3-litre diesel and 1.4-litre petrol motors from the Ertiga. A December 2013 launch is possible.

FACTFILE
Engine: 1.4-litre petrol, 1.3-litre diesel
Power/torque: 93.7bhp/13.2kgm, 88.7bhp/20.4kgm
Kerb weight: NA
L/W/H: NA
Expected: December 2013
Price: Rs 6.5-8.5 lakh*

Mercedes-Benz A-class saloon

The A-Class hatch may not go on to be a big-volume seller, but its saloon sibling headed here in late 2013 could be. The A-class saloon's striking looks will mark a radical departure from traditional Merc saloon design. As the CLA concept saloon laid bare, frontal styling is aggressive, while the nicely arced roof and tightly skinned boot make this an attention-grabbing design. This saloon will be significantly smaller than the C-class, but thanks to Merc's packaging-friendly front-wheel-drive MFA platfrom, space will be decent. The cabin is likely to carry much of the exterior's sporty theme. Power will be via a 1.6-litre turbo petrol and 1.8-litre diesel, and a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox will be standard. With prices likely to range from Rs 20-24 lakh, the A-class saloon could turn the entry luxury car market on its head.

FACTFILE
Engine:  1.6-litre turbo-petrol, 1.8-litre diesel
Power/torque: 121bhp/20.4kgm, 134bhp/30.55kgm
Kerb weight: NA
L/W/H: NA
Expected: End-2013
Price: Rs 20-24 lakh*

Nissan Sunny Auto

The popular diesel version may contribute to the bulk of Nissan Sunny sales in India but the petrol model will get a lot more interesting come February 2013. That's when Nissan will start selling the Sunny petrol with a CVT gearbox-equipped automatic option. Likely be sold at a premium of Rs 80,000 over the petrol manual variant, the automatic Sunny will make great sense for urban car buyers who drive themselves.

FACTFILE
Engine: 1.5-litre petrol
Power/torque: 97.6bhp/13.6kgm
Kerb weight: NA
L/W/H: 4425/1695/1505mm
Expected: February 2013
Price: Rs 8.7 lakh*

Renault Scala Auto

If you're among those who have taken a liking to the Scala and are considering the petrol car, then it is worth your time to wait for the automatic version, slated to go on sale in mid-2013. The car will receive a CVT-gearbox and like Renault's alliance partner Nissan's Sunny automatic, that will be launched around the same time, will cost around Rs 80,000 more than the manual variant. In case you have your doubts, Renault-Nissan's Xtronic 'box is known to offer less of the 'rubber band' effect traditionally associated with CVTs and also better fuel efficiency than a torque converter auto.

FACTFILE
Engine: 1.5-litre petrol
Power/torque: 97.6bhp/13.6kgm
Kerb weight: NA
L/W/H: 4425/1695/1505mm
Expected: Mid-2013
Price: Rs 8.9 lakh*

* Estimated, ex-showroom, Delhi

Skoda New Octavia

Skoda started its Indian innings with the Octavia and the name is all set to make a comeback to India on the Czech carmaker's new D-segment challenger, which will go on sale in late 2013. Built on the Volkswagen Group's flexible MQB platform, the latest Octavia will be longer and wider yet lighter than the current-gen model, which is sold in India as the Laura. Styling will also be much sharper and will carry Skoda's edgier new design language. Like its predecessors, the new Octavia will be a notchback. Thanks to its larger exterior dimensions, the new car's cabin will be more spacious, which should translate to a better rear-seat experience. The car could feature new engines but the 2.0-litre diesel and 1.8-litre turbo-petrol are likely to be carried forward. What remains to be seen is how Skoda will position the new Octavia, given that the Laura continues to be a strong seller even after all these years.

FACTFILE
Engine: 1.8-litre turbo-petrol, 2.0-litre diesel
Power/torque: 160bhp/25.5kgm, 140bhp/32.6kgm
Kerb weight: NA
L/W/H: NA
Expected: Late-2013
Price: Rs 16-20 lakh*

Tata Manza facelift

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Tata is working on a comprehensive styling update for the Manza saloon. The car is expected in mid-2013 and may carry many elements from the Manza Hybrid saloon shown at this year's Auto Expo. Frontal styling will be completely different, with a new smiling grille, sharp creases on the bumper and hawk-eye headlights. Moreover, the Manza could be the first Indian car to feature bi-Xenon headlights. Changes at the rear will include reshaped tail-lamps, a more angled bootlid and plastic cladding on the lower portion of the bumper to camouflage some of its bulk. The interior could benefit from a revised centre console and improved quality, though the current engine options are likely to be carried forward. 

FACTFILE 
Engine: 1.4-litre petrol, 1.3-litre diesel
Power/torque: 89bhp/11.8kgm, 89bhp/20.4kgm
Kerb weight: 1210kg
L/W/H: 4413/1703/1550mm
Expected: Mid-2013
Price: Rs 5.7-8.1 lakh*

BMW 7-series facelift

While the changes may be difficult to spot, this is the facelifted BMW 7-series that is due for an India launch at the end of this year. Look hard and you may notice the new car's thicker grille surrounds, full LED headlamps and restyled front bumper. The changes to the cabin are not all that comprehensive either and include new front seats, a redesigned iDrive system and a new rear-seat entertainment package. As before, the 7-series will be available with a choice of one diesel and three petrol motors, but in line with BMW's push for improved efficiency, these motors will now come mated to the eight-speed auto 'box from the 5-series.

FACTFILE
Engine: 3.0-litre petrol, 4.4-litre petrol, 6.0-litre petrol, 3.0-litre diesel
Power/torque: 315bhp/45.9kgm, 443bhp/66.3kgm, 536bhp/76.5kgm, 255bhp/57.1kgm
Kerb weight: 1900-1980kg
L/W/H: 5212/1902/1478mm
Expected: December 2012
Price: Rs 95 lakh-1.5 crore*

Honda New Accord

Once the king of its segment, the Honda Accord has lost ground to newer rivals like the Skoda Superb. Things could change when Honda brings in the all-new Accord in mid-2013. As is clear in the pictures of the India-bound US model, the design is a lot more mature than the current car's, with crisper lines and a more athletic stance. The cabin sees an improvement too with a classier dashboard and even more space than before. Engine options will include a new, and more efficient, direct-injection 2.4-litre petrol (with the choice of a CVT gearbox), but there will be no V6 petrol as on the current car. The sad news is that, like before, there are no plans for a diesel variant, which will invariably limit the big Honda's appeal in India.

FACTFILE
Engine: 2.4-litre petrol
Power/torque: 182bhp/25.1kgm
Kerb weight: 1475kg
L/W/H: 4851/1849/1465mm
Expected: Mid-2013
Price: Rs 20 lakh*

Jaguar XF 2.2 Diesel

As things stand, the XF is Jaguar's bread-and-butter model in India. And it's all set to get a whole lot more accessible. For starters, Jaguar is finally going to equip the XF with its base 188bhp, four-cylinder 2.2-litre diesel engine. So far, Jaguar had found it difficult to tune the engine to be compatible with local diesel available in India, but could bring in the motor, without a diesel particulate filter,  by end-2012. The new engine will give Jaguar just the right model to take on the Mercedes-Benz E 220 CDI, BMW 520d and Audi A6 2.0 TDI, which form the bulk of sales in this segment. New engine apart, what would really help bring the prices of the XF down is if Jaguar locally assembles the car alongside the Land Rover Freelander at Tata Motors' plant in Pune. At present, the XF is brought into India as a completely built unit and the recent increase in customs duties has only worked to put it at a serious price disadvantage against its locally assembled rivals.

FACTFILE
Engine: 2.2-litre diesel
Power/torque: 188bhp/46kgm
Kerb weight: 1745kg
L/W/H: 4961/1920/1460mm
Expected: December 2012
Price: Rs 45 lakh*

Skoda Superb facelift

Skoda will give its cars a new corporate identity and the Superb will be the first recipient of the new look in India. The luxury saloon will get a larger, more angular front grille and the headlights get sharper detailing as well. Daytime running lights are another possibility. The makeover will extend to tail styling as well, with reshaped lights and a new bootlid that will now house the number plate. A slighlty revised dashboard could also be part of the update.

FACTFILE
Engine: 1.8-litre turbo-petrol, 3.6-litre petrol, 2.0-litre diesel
Power/torque: 160bhp/25.5kgm, 260bhp/35.7kgm, 140bhp/32.6kgm
Kerb weight: 1567kg
L/W/H: 4838/1817/1482mm
Expected: Early-2013
Price: Rs 18-28 lakh*

Mercedes-Benz E-class facelift

Originally launched in India in 2009, the W212 series Mercedes-Benz E-Class is set to get its first update shortly. The updates will mainly focus on styling and, going by the spy pictures of the prototypes undergoing testing in Europe, the freshened E will look quite different. The big news is the updated E-class will lose the quartet of headlamps that have identified the car since the W210 model of 1995. In their place, the E-class will possibly get larger, single-piece headlights with square-shaped LEDs outlining the main lights. Other changes will include a lowered grille and restyled front and rear bumpers. The cabin is expected to receive a more comprehensive screen-based menu to replace many of the buttons on the dashboard. You can also expect more power from the improved powertrains.  

FACTFILE
Engine: 1.8-litre turbo-petrol, 3.5-litre petrol, 2.2-litre diesel, 3.0-litre diesel
Power/torque: 183bhp/29kgm, 272bhp/35.6kgm, 203bhp/51kgm, 228bhp/55kgm
Kerb weight: 1732kg-1825kg
L/W/H: 4868/1854/1471mm
Expected: Mid-2013
Price: Rs 40-55 lakh*

* Estimated, ex-showroom, Delhi

Ashok Leyland Stile

If the Stile looks familiar, that's because it is Ashok Leyland's version of the recently launched Nissan Evalia MPV. But where the Evalia is targeted at private car buyers, the Stile will be positioned primarily for commercial users and tour operators, and as a result will be sold at a considerably lower price point. The Stile will feature a different nose and, in keeping with its intended purpose, will also come with a toned down cabin. You can also expect the Stile to do without many of the Evalia's safety features like ABS and airbags. However, the Stile will still be powered by Renault's 1.5-litre K9K engine, but possibly in a lower state of tune. There could also be a CNG version in the future.

FACTFILE
Engine: 1.5-litre diesel
Power/torque: 65bhp/16.3kgm
Kerb weight : NA
L/W/H: 4400/1695/1880mm
Expected: Mid-2013
Price: Rs 7.5-8.5 lakh*

Chevrolet Enjoy

As the success of the Maruti Ertiga has proven, there is a huge market for well-priced MPVs in India. To cash in on this demand, Chevrolet is all set to launch its own MPV called the Enjoy. Unveiled at the 2012 Auto Expo, the Enjoy is actually a Wuling CN-100, which is part of GM India's Chinese partner, Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation's product portfolio. While the styling is quite ordinary by modern standards, the seven-seater's main selling point will be value for money. The Chinese version gets removable second and third rows which, if offered on the Indian model, will greatly add to the Enjoy's versatility. Powering the MPV will be a 94.6bhp 1.4-litre petrol engine, but the 1.3-litre Multijet diesel engine-equipped version is expected to form the bulk of sales. Interestingly, British sportscar maker Lotus worked with engineers at GM's Bangalore technical centre to fine-tune the Enjoy's chassis. However, the success of the Enjoy will hinge less on how it takes corners and more on how well it is priced. So if the buzz around a sub-Rs 6 lakh starting price is true, the Enjoy could go on to be a big hit. 

FACTFILE
Engine: 1.4-litre petrol, 1.3-litre diesel
Power/torque: 94.6bhp/NA, 77bhp/20.9kgm
Kerb weight: 1205kg
L/W/H: 4305/1680/1750mm
Expected: November 2012
Price: Rs 6 lakh*

Force Motors New Trax

Spurred on by the continued success of the Mahindra Bolero, Force Motors is readying a new version of its long-running Trax utility vehicle. The new Trax will come with smarter styling and updated interiors, and will feature the OM616 diesel engine that uses a two-valve common-rail system. Since it's BSIV compliant, this engine will enable the new Trax to be sold in the metros as well. Spec for spec, the Trax's pricing is likely to mirror the Bolero's. Force Motors is also working on reviving the Gurkha to take on the Mahindra Thar.

FACTFILE
Engine: 2.6-litre diesel
Power/torque: NA
Kerb weight: NA
L/W/H: NA
Expected: Mid-2013
Price: Rs 5.5-6.5 lakh*

Force Motors MPV

With the soaring popularity of MPVs, Force Motors may have an ace up its sleeve with its own people-mover, which is scheduled for launch in late 2013. The MPV will be a Force Motors-badged version of the Viano that will be built under license from Mercedes-Benz. Larger than the current lot of MPVs on sale in India, the yet unnamed model could be sold as an eight-seater. We expect the MPV to come with the 139bhp Mercedes-Benz-licensed OM611 2.2-litre diesel engine, which also does duty in the Force One SUV. While prices are not known yet, we estimate Force Motors will launch this MPV with a price in the Rs 10-15 lakh band.

FACTFILE
Engine: 2.2-litre diesel
Power/torque: 139bhp/32.7kgm
Kerb weight: NA
L/W/H: 4763/1338/2253mm
Expected: End-2013
Price: Rs 10-15 lakh*

Hyundai MPV

The concept you see here previews some of the styling cues you can expect on Hyundai's new MPV for India, which could make production by late 2013. Going by the 4.3-metre-long Hexa Space show car's design, the production version (codename: HND-7) will have a distinct bonnet section and won't be a mono-volume MPV like its contemporaries. Details like the peeled-back headlamps, flared arches and boomerang tail-lights could make it to the final version too. Built on an approximately 2.7-metre-long wheelbase, the MPV could be offered as an eight-seater with a unique 3+3+2 seating layout. Likely to sell with the 1.6-litre diesel from the Verna and Elantra, the concept's turbocharged 1200cc Kappa petrol motor and six-speed automatic gearbox hint at some of the other possible powertrain options. You can expect Hyundai to price this interesting MPV on par with the Maruti Ertiga.

FACTFILE
Engine: 1.2-litre turbo petrol, 1.6-litre diesel
Power/torque: NA, 126bhp/26.5kgm
Kerb weight: NA
L/W/H: NA
Expected: Late-2013
Price: Rs 6-9 lakh*

Jaguar F-Type

Easily one of the stars of the 2012 Paris Motor Show, Jaguar's gorgeous new F-Type sports car is on its way to India come 2013. A spiritual successor to the 1960s E-type, the F-type will initially be available in convertible form only, while the more India-friendly coupé will make its way here a year later. The F-type is a strict two-seater, and shares a lot of its underpinnings with the XK grand tourer, though it is considerably smaller than the larger Jag and similar in size to the Porsche 911. Buyers will have the option to choose between a pair of supercharged 3.0-litre V6s with power outputs of 335bhp and 375bhp, and also a range-topping 488bhp 5.0-litre V8, all of which will come mated to an eight-speed torque converter automatic gearbox. Expect prices to start from Rs 1 crore for this leaping cat.

FACTFILE
Engine: 3.0-litre petrol, 3.0-litre petrol, 5.0-litre petrol
Power/torque: 335bhp/45.9kgm, 375bhp/46.9kgm, 488bhp/63.7kgm
Kerb weight: 1597-1665kg
L/W/H: 4470/1923/1296mm
Expected: Mid-2013
Price: Rs 1 crore onwards*

Audi S5

The S4 has already made its India debut and will be joined by other cars from Audi's red-hot S performance range soon. Among the models due for launch are the S6 and S7, each of which is equipped with a stonking 414bhp 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8. The S8 is on its way here too. It gets all the luxury trappings of an A8 and the same twin-turbo V8 as the S6 and S7, albeit with 513bhp on tap. It's the ultimate wolf in sheep's clothing. While the S6, S7 and S8 will cost a sizeable amount more than their current range-topping variants, the S5 coupé will actually cost less than the RS5 already sold here. It will also be less powerful than that car, but with 329bhp on tap, still promises to be an absolute blast to drive.

FACTFILE
Engine: 3.0-litre petrol
Power/torque: 329bhp/44.9kgm
Kerb weight: 1750kg
L/W/H: 4640/1854/1369mm
Expected: Mid-2013
Price: Rs 75 lakh* 

* Estimated, ex-showroom, Delhi