It is pretty evident that due to soaring prices of petrol, many customers are giving preference to diesel variants for high performance and fuel economy. This also reflects on new launches that are going to hit the Indian automotive market. Notably, auto majors are focussing on bringing in new diesel models to get more domestic attention. Currently, there are number of diesel vehicles that await their launch, but few are already getting more attention than other vehicles. More or less, the list of hottest diesel upcoming cars will include the likes of Nissan Terrano, Skoda Octavia, Maruti Suzuki XA Alpha concept based SUV and Mercedes-Benz CLA.
Nissan Terrano is a much anticipated compact SUV in the country. The vehicle is expected to be launched in October 2013 with a price tag ranging between Rs. 8.25 lakh and Rs. 12.75 lakh. Terrano can be aptly called as the Nissan’s version of the Renault Duster. Notably, Duster has got an excellent response in the Indian market and currently, reigns the top slot in compact SUV segment. Terrano shares the same platform as used by Duster and is expected to offer similar engine and transmission options. The cabin space, dimension and wheel size along with interior trims also resemble to that of Duster. However, despite similarities with Renault's Duster, Terrano has been given an unique identity by its maker with distinct split grille and rugged look for a bold stance.
Like Terrano, Skoda Octavia too is expected to see its launch in October 2013. The price of the new Octavia is expected to be in a range between Rs. 14 lakh and Rs. 18.5 lakh. This new third generation sedan has a richer and premium look with a longer wheelbase. In fact, the wheelbase has been increased by 108 mm to create more cabin space. Octavia is based on parent company Volkswagen’s MQB platform and as such, is 102 kg lighter. Front fascia and side profile have been refined for a distinctive premium feel.
Eyeing the potential that compact SUV segment offers in India, Maruti Suzuki is currently developing XA Alpha concept. With this new car model, the auto major is planning to mark its presence in the SUV segment. This vehicle was shown as a concept vehicle in the 2012 Auto Expo. XA Alpha is based on the Swift platform and likely to be priced between Rs. 6 lakh and Rs. 8 lakh. As per images revealed, this new upcoming SUV certainly looks more muscular than most of the other vehicles of the segment. The front fascia distinguishably relishes a masculine appearance for a strong stance and prominent front grill with an impressive chrome surround.
Mercedes-Benz CLA is expected to be launched in September 2013 with a price range between Rs. 25 lakh and Rs. 30 lakh. As claimed by the company, CLA features a drag coefficient of just 0.23, which is lowest among any series production vehicle. The diesel variant of this new upcoming sedan will be able to produce a power of up to 170 bhp (CLA 220 CDI). The engine will come mated with either a seven-speed dual clutch gearbox or an optional 4matic four-wheel drive system.
