Renault, the French auto maker, is expected to launch its much awaited Scala sedan in Indian markets in September this year. The initial pictures of Scala saloon has generated immense buzz in the market and Indian car enthusiasts are eagerly waiting for its launch. The company has a five car launch planned this year with its Fluence sedan, compact Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) Duster and hatchback Pulse already in the Indian market. But will the new addition be able to mesmerise Indian buyers, remains a question.
The fourth offering from the Renault's stable, Scala saloon looks refreshing and is expected to fetch a price tag around Rs. 6 lacs and Rs. 8 lacs for the petrol and diesel variants respectively. The tentative price tag will put the car in a direct face off with the segment leader Honda City, Nissan Sunny, Skoda Rapid and Fiat Linea, among others.
Renault has a Joint Venture (JV) with the Japanese auto maker Nissan and both share a production facility based in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. The upcoming Scala is reported to be a re-badged version of Nissan Sunny which is produced at the alliance's Chennai plant. Sunny is popular in the country for its good looks and a great pick-up and hence, the upcoming Scala is also expected to be fine piece of engineering coupled with a charming exterior appearance.
Reportedly, Renault will launch Scala in both petrol and diesel variants to boost its sales by finding both types of buyers, making it a good move by business terms. It is believed that both the variants will house a 1.5 litre engine and the diesel engine will churn out a maximum power of 86 bhp and 200 Nm of maximum torque, while the petrol engine could deliver a power of 97 bhp with a crest torque of 134 Nm. So from engine and power considerations, Scala ticks all aspects.
The interiors look plush for the segment and will surely catch your attention with a high quality beige coloured upholstery. The steering mounted audio controls and dash integrated audio system combined with a four speaker system will ensure a pleasant experience for both long and short distance driving. The upcoming sedan looks fine with all the trimmings of a proper entry-level sedan and will spearhead the company's sales in the segment.
Honda City has been a favourite with Indian sentiments for a considerable period of time but recently its sales have dropped largely due to a variety of options present in the market currently. Renault so far has been making all the right moves with its Fluence finding premium buyers and its compact SUV Duster recording decent sales as well. With Scala, Renault aspires to gain a strong foothold in the segment and will be expecting to end the remarkable year on a good note. Renault had worked hard on its revitalisation plans as its previous entry-level sedan Logan failed to strike the Indian sentiments and was tagged as a failure by auto experts.
The upcoming Scala saloon is expected to have all the requisites a Indian entry-level model demands and it will be really interesting to note how the Renault's new offering fares in the Indian market. The package looks complete and with its slated launch just before the Indian festive season, the company could hit a jackpot, when all the Indian car enthusiasts tend to invest in new vehicles. With a good engine under its hood and some promise in its aura, Scala may be the year's surprise entry in the segment.
