2014 has finally arrived and impatient auto fanatics are still in a bid to perceive the launch of their most favoured car. 2013 was not considered beneficial for global and domestic car makers but the current year is packed with a string of new launches and promises to compensate the not-so-impressive auto sales of last year. while some cars will be refurbished versions of their existing models, other will be showcased for the first time. Also, this year will mark the advent of new overseas car makers in Indian market, who will attempt to lure buyers with their innovative designs. Before digging further, lets glance through the 5 most anticipated models to be witnessed this year.
Primarily, Japanese auto maker Honda will try to appease its vast fan base with the launch of its iconic sedan City. It will be officially launched on 7th January, and will be the fourth generation model in its series. The astute strategies have been utilised by the car maker, as next generation City will come equipped with diesel engine for the first time. Earlier, the auto maker had marked the advent of its latest “Earth Dream” diesel technology in Honda Amaze and results were quite astonishing. The car was lauded for its performance and the same is expected to be carried in all new Honda City. Furthermore, the new City will flaunt distinguishable tweaks at its exteriors and interiors.
The Japanese car makers seem to be on a streak to tempt prospective buyers. Nissan's low-cost brand Datsun will be incepting Indian auto market with its new hatchback Go. It is believed to be built on Micra's platform and will come equipped with a 1.2-litre petrol engine. The stylish looking car is expected to be placed in a price bracket of Rs. 2.5 lakh – Rs. 4.5 lakh and is believed to compete with Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 and Hyundai Eon. The car is anticipated to be a major highlight at the upcoming Auto Expo, in February 2014.
Next in line is Hyundai Grand i10 based sedan, which is constantly generating quite a buzz in the market. This car will be sharing its platform with Grand 10 and is expected to have a same wheelbase as its hatchback version. Interestingly, Grand i10 was awarded the prestigious title of 'Car of the Year 2014' few weeks ago. Reason for such an admirable feat was the introduction of the company's new diesel engine technology, called U2. The 1.1-litre diesel variant returns impressive fuel economy statistics and was extolled globally for the same. The Grand i10 based sedan is expected to perform similarly and the auto maker is betting high on this car. Rumours are that this car will be arriving on 4th February, much ahead of its anticipated launch during the Auto Expo which is commencing from 7th February.
Mahindra & Mahindra has been an indispensable auto maker of the Indian market. Its top-notch Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) Scorpio is likely to be showcased in a revamped version, at the Auto Expo 2014. The legendary SUV will be incorporated with the same 2.2-litre diesel engine. Its exteriors have been refurbished, keeping up the present day requirement of buyers. Speculations are rife that the changes employed in the car resemble to Mahindra XUV500. If such is the case, then all new Mahindra Scorpio is expected to deliver a stiff competition to same segment cars.
Finally, the luxury segment is going to witness a new addition in its catalogue. The all new Mercedes-Benz S-Class is set to redefine its opulent charms and is expected to be launched on 8th January. Being placed in a price range of Rs. 85 lakh – Rs. 1.10 crore, it will certainly be the optimum model for niches. It is widely conjectured that Mercedes-Benz S500 will be the primary model to be launched and tagging along later on will be the S350 in petrol and diesel engine options.
