Most of the major car manufacturers, including Hyundai, Maruti Suzuki, Toyota, and Honda, recorded substantial growth in car sales during the 2015 festive season. To further this growth trajectory, the passenger car market will see numerous new car models, apart from a several relaunches.
In the first half of this calendar year itself, you will see carmakers launching dozens of new models. Here's a list of a few cars that are soon expected to hit the road:
1. Tata Zica
Zica, the upcoming launch by Indian automaker Tata, is expected to be full of features. Soon after its launch, the company will also release the AMT variant. The car will be introduced with two new engine options – a 1.0-litre Revotorq diesel engine and a 1.2-litre 3-cylindered Revotron petrol mill. However, any official information with respect to mileage has not been revealed yet.
Expected Launch: January 2016
Estimated Price: Rs. 3.90 – 4.50 lacs
2. Mahindra KUV100
The all-new Mahindra KUV100 is expected to give tough competition to popular hatchbacks, such as Hyundai Grand i10 and Maruti Swift. If you happen to like such cars as Ford Ecosport, you will surely like Mahindra KUV100. It is Mahindra’s first vehicle to feature its mFalcon engine and is available in both petrol and diesel versions. You will have the option to choose from 1.2 petrol and 1.2 diesel engines. High ground clearance, expansive interiors and SUV styling are some of the key features of this new launch product.
Expected Launch: 15 January 2016
Estimated Price: Rs. 5.0 lacs
3. Volkswagen Taigun
Volkswagen Taigun, belonging to the compact SUV segment, will go head-to-head against Mahindra S102 and Ford Ecosport. With a wheelbase of 2.47 meters, Taigun offers a head room of 1,036mm and 980mm for front and rear passengers, respectively. The car bears a 3-cylinder, 1.0-litre petrol engine and is turbocharged. It produces about 110PS of power and 175Nm of torque.
Expected Launch: Early 2016
Estimated Price: Rs. 8.0 lacs
4. Maruti Suzuki XA Alpha
The all-new Maruti Suzuki XA Alpha is expected to be the biggest new launch of the year. This YBA compact SUV will be priced between Rs 6 and 9 lacs and would qualify for the sub-4 meter excise benefit. You will have the option to choose from petrol and diesel engines of 1.4 and 1.3 litre, respectively. The car is expected to be a tough competition to Ford Ecosport, Renault Duster and the upcoming Hyundai ix25.
Expected Launch: Early 2016
Estimated Price: Rs. 6.0 lacs
5. Chevrolet Spin
Belonging to the MPV segment (same as their existing car Enjoy), the all new Chevrolet Spin is expected to come in both petrol and diesel engines. You can expect the same engine specifications as Enjoy, namely a 1.3-litre diesel unit and 1.4 litre-petrol unit. With a wheelbase of 2,620 millimeters, Spin boasts of spacious interiors and seating space for seven passengers.
Expected Launch: Mid 2016
Estimated Price: Rs. 8.0 lacs