The Russian auto market has shown a growth of 3 percent since last year. While this figure is not a double digit growth, clear signs of recovery are now showing. This is the reason that auto makers from around the world were present at the recent Moscow International Motor Show 2010. They displayed various models that were not only slated for the European markets but also new or face-lifted models for the emerging markets, especially the BRIC – Brazil, Russia, India and China.
Today, we take a look at the Moscow Auto Show and what has transpired there. Importantly, we focus on developments that are relevant for India.
Ford - The Ford Focus
Ford has introduced its new sedan model, Ford Focus, in Moscow. The model is presently not present in the Indian market, but as the model is being developed under the “One Ford” program, a similar model should be expected to enter India at some point. The new Ford Focus is slated for launch in 2012 and carries a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine that has variable cam phasing on both the intake and exhaust.
Jaguar Land Rover – a New Freelander
Tata Motors owned British luxury marquee Land Rover displayed its next generation Freelander which is headed for the emerging markets. It was probably one of the biggest debuts at the Moscow show and the model displayed refurbished interiors inspired from the Range Rover model.
Volkswagen – the Vento reaches Russia
The sedan version of the Volkswagen Polo, the VW Vento, has already been introduced in the Indian market. Similar model for the Russian market was on display in Moscow, which will be manufactured in St. Petersburg to keep the costs under control. Volkswagen Jetta has already moved up in size in the Russian market and there is enough room for a smaller sedan for the growing market. With suspension adapted for bad roads, a "cold climatic zone" package and a low maintenance engine, Volkswagen says that the 399,000 RU [about €10,200] Polo will introduce "new quality standards in the affordable small car class."
Hyundai – RB Concept – the New Verna
Hyundai Motors introduced its new RB concept model which is hinted to be the next Hyundai Verna model for the emerging markets. The RB will be built at Hyundai’s first full-cycle plant in Saint Petersburg, Russia starting in January 2011 followed by the market launch in spring of 2011. The sub-compact sedan will be available with Hyundai’s new 1.6-liter or 1.4-liter Gamma petrol engines with a four-speed automatic transmission or a standard five-speed manual will be available for both engines.
The Renault Dacia Duster debuted at the Moscow Motor Show. The car has been successful in the European markets already and is ready to hit the Russian market too. The French company has just unveiled the Russian version of the Duster as the vehicle comes with certain modifications that target both the technical and the aesthetic areas. The Dacia Duster is expected to reach India also.
Renault also introduced its new model Latitude which a “business class” sedan that has been specifically designed for the Russian market. It will hit the Russian market first this month before being rolled out to a further 50 countries. Renault in India is readying itself to introduce its sedan model Fluence which was also on display at the Show. Renault displayed the electric variant of Fluence for the Russian market.
Besides the above models, the Moscow International Motor Show showcased an array of cars including Audi A7 Sports, Mercedes CL class, Toyota Highlander and various models from BMW, Citroen, etc. The main theme of the cars remains the new age and fuel efficient models, and cars as the Peugeot iON concept, Renault Fluence electric, Kia Sorento Diesel Hybrid, Hyundai iFlow reflected this sentiment. Unfortunately though, these are not India bound.
