Every year around this time we testify to our families or friends of the important events from our lives. We look back and look ahead making some resolutions. Some quite ambitious ones. While, some others not quite so. The automobiles are no different. So, as I look forward to the upcoming car launches and auto expos in the year 2016, I take cue from the year gone by and rewind to five important launches from 2015.
Renault Kwid Launched in September, 2015, it gave the car lovers a pleasant surprise with its price tag of Rs.2.57 lakh. The 800cc petrol car with three cylinder engine offers power of 54 horses and 72 Nm of torque. Well, the figures might not be much impressive but they are better than Kwid’s competitors. And that’s when the car is feather-light. The manufacturer claims a mileage of 25.17 km/l which shall be a huge draw in the Indian market. Another add on from the French manufacturer is the 7-inch wide touch screen on the central console. The car works well in rear and boot space. And thus, in 2016 Kwid is to be seen a lot on the roads, considering Renault is to come out with 1.0 litre-automated transmission variant of the car in the time ahead.
Ford Figo Aspire Launched in August 2015, it steals the show in sub-compact sedan segment. The car priced at Rs.4.89 lakh is taken hands-on in the market. It claims to offer some top line features and good comfort. So be it airbags or ABS this one has it all.
With its three engine variants, Figo Aspire is changing the game for its competitors. This one sure deserves to be test-driven before you choose your pick.
Mahindra’s TUV300 Moving on, one must-mention this much loved car from 2015. The sub 4-metre SUV has gained a lot of acclaim and popularity for its unique design and style. Launched in September 2015, it is priced at Rs.6.90 lakh. The 7-seater SUV is game for some city driving as well as off-roading, giving you a feel of toughness. Coming from Mahindra’s stable, it shall be a game-changer for its competitive pricing, styling and toughness bringing the best of both worlds. The different drive modes, the small screen at the central console and big space in the car are some big positives.
Hyundai Creta Another launch which cannot be taken out from the list. The SUV, which is marketed as the ‘perfect’ by the manufacturer, may not be ideal but it is not far from it.
The car has everything in it to keep you happy. Launched in July 2015, it is priced at Rs 8.59 lakh. There are around 10 different models on offer.
There is huge space and comfort. It drives well on high speeds and offers stability. This one is surely going to be another feather in the cap of the South Korean major which is already riding high on its i20 being awarded the Indian Car of the Year.
Maruti’s NEXA It is not possible to close this list without putting in picture Maruti Suzuki India Ltd. And, though there were a couple of exciting launches from the manufacturer, I would put that all in the launch of NEXA. The shift of focus of the manufacturer is going to be clearer in 2016. In 2015, we saw the launches of S-Cross and Baleno under the brand.
It is to be seen how Maruti takes it on from here as the company is trying its best to make inroads into the premium segment.
There are strategy shifts and new ways of dealing with the customers. So, if you are a NEXA customer, 2016 is to bring a lot more for you.
