2014 Auto Expo in India will bring some good news for auto enthusiasts as it will witness a line-up of cars from the esteemed companies like Maruti Suzuki and Honda. If we have a look at the three upcoming cars, which will grab the eye balls of masses, the list includes Maruti Suzuki Alto 800 Diesel, Honda City Diesel and Maruti Suzuki XA Alpha. There had been speculations that these fortune changer cars would be launched in the Indian automobile market by 2014.
Talking about Maruti Suzuki XA Alpha, this Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) was unveiled at the 2012 Auto Expo as a concept model. Industry experts are of a view that the compact crossover XA Alpha will soar the mercury level up in the automobile market with its aggressive and muscular looks. Featuring two engines, namely 1.3-litre diesel and 1.4-litre petrol engine, XA Alpha will have the potential to compete against the likes of Renault Duster and Ford EcoSport, in terms of mileage. As we all know, these cars have already made a high pitch in the SUV segment and now its time for XA Alpha to carve a niche in the Indian automobile market. Maruti XA Alpha is expected to launch in early 2014 with its petrol and diesel variants. According to company officials, its price would fall in the range of Rs. 7 lakh and Rs.11 lakh.
Next in the line is upcoming diesel version of the all new Honda City. This next generation car will be showcased in India this November. Powered by a 1.5-litre i-DTEC engine (as found in Amaze model), the new sedan of Honda will sweep away the feet of Indian buyers. Sources close to the development process have said that the design of new City would be same as the previous generation models. Some add-ons like halogen headlamps, 5-spoke alloy wheels, tinted glass and chrome finished door lock handles can be witnessed on this car. Off late, Honda Cars India Limited is quite elated with the overwhelming response of Amaze diesel.
However, the delivery of Honda City Diesel will only be made available in 2014. In terms of features, the Diesel City's cabin section is expected to feature leather seats made from premium upholstery, which will make it a snug fit for travellers. The automatic air conditioning system and adjustable power steering wheel makes it comfortable for both drivers and passengers. Other features include multimedia touch screen system, Bluetooth and iPod. Additionally, there might be audio visual navigation system and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) to ensure safety while driving. Industry experts say that this next generation Honda City driven by diesel will be much in demand even after the improvements in its petrol version.
If we have a look at the statistics, then hatchbacks till now have been the most preferred choice for Indian buyers, owing to its small dimensions. Maruti Suzuki Alto 800 Diesel is slated for release in 2014 at the Auto Expo. Industry experts believe that with rising demand of diesel run cars, Maruti Suzuki made an effort to add the all-new Alto Diesel in its Indian portfolio. Auto analysts say that this car will lure the middle class buyers, who aim at simplicity and affordability. With fuel prices soaring high, Honda City Diesel and Maruti Suzuki Alto 800 Diesel can be a suitable option for budget conscious buyers. Along with, Maruti Suzuki XA Alpha, which will be available in diesel and petrol variants, will definitely entice the Indian customers.
