MAHINDRA XYLO

Mahindra has finally come up with its first true MUV - The Mahindra Xylo. Code-named Ingenio, it had been officially named as ‘Xylo’ - this new platform project costed Rs. 550 crore for the utility vehicles market leader. Mahindra has tried its best to improve the overall build quality, fit & finish of its products with the launch of Xylo.

MAHINDRA XYLO REVIEW

Prices of New Mahindra Xylo:

E2 - 632500.00
E4 - 669500.00
E6 - 732500.00
E8 - 769500.00

And from the official pictures it seems that they have a winner in their hands. Xylo has been priced very competitively as compared to the Chevrolet Tavera & Toyota Innova. Though the quality of Innova is still much better than the Xylo but Xylo’s finish is the best in comparison to other Mahindra products - Scorpio & Bolero.

Xylo is powered by the same engine used in recently launched Bolero Storm CRDe but it has been fine tuned further to give more power and has been named M-Eagle CRDe. It provides maximum power of 112 Bhp at 3800 rpm with maximum torque of 240 Nm at 1800-3000 rpm.

It is available in four variants - E2, E4, E6 & E8. The base model E2 comes with single AC, Power Windows, Power Steering.

MAHINDRA XYLO

The top model Mahindra xylo E8 comes fully loaded with following features:

• Surround cool dual AC’s with Roof mounted vents
• Body coloured bumpers
• Electrically adjustable rear view mirrors
• Front & Rear Fog Lamps
• Alloy Wheels
• Body Coloured Side Cladding
• Digital Drive Assist System (DDAS)
• Mobile charging points
• Foldable flight trays
• Intellipark reverse assist System
• Power window express up/down (driver side) with anti-pinch
• Double DIN Music system

Completely created from the inside out, the XYLO keeps all the needs and wants of the would-be passenger in mind. This translates into surprising legroom, both in the second and third row.

Theatre style seating ensures that none of the passengers feel left out of the conversation, even if they are seated in the back row. Independent AC vents ensure that the Surround Cool Dual AC cools all corners of this spacious car with individual controls for each passenger.

XYLO is also the only car to offer flatbed front seats, just like in the business class of a world-class airline. Additional unique features include foldable flight trays behind the front seats, individual reading lamps for each passenger and conveniently placed laptop and mobile charging points.

The doors are fitted with puddle lamps, giving passengers visibility while alighting from the car at night. Cabin lights shut gradually after a few minutes, giving passengers enough time to settle inside the car. A wide arm rest in the front row provides the driver and co-passenger with comfort, while an integrated foot rest allows easy entry and exit.

One of the most revolutionary features of the Xylo is the tech-savvy Digital Drive Assist System (DDAS). An alphanumeric display in the centre panel, the DDAS has features such as an onboard computer to calculate mileage and distance permissible.

The system is easy to read and provides useful data at a quick glance. Standard information available includes date, time, inside and outside temperature and relative humidity.

It also lets you know exactly which direction your Mahindra Xylo is headed in. Press a button and you are informed of your gear position and speed. The DDAS will even tell you how long your fuel will last and share information on your average speed and the instant mileage clocked by you. All of which ensures that you derive optimum mileage from your Mahindra Xylo.

The DDAS also has an inbuilt warning system which will prompt you to put on your seat belts in case you forget or if you attempt to drive with the handbrake engaged, for instance.

The Intellipark Reverse Assist has a visual prompt in the rear view mirror which shows you the distance between the rear bumper and any object behind your car. The 2 Din Entertainment System is also feature packed. It enables playback from MP3s and CDs, SD cards and USB devices, giving you a superlative acoustic experience on the road.

The driver’s seat is ergonomically designed with height adjustment control to maximise comfort on long drives. Lumbar support can also be adjusted to three positions while the unique tiltable steering wheel gives you the perfect driving position.

An illuminated keyhole ring allows you to conveniently locate the keyhole even in pitch dark conditions. Utility spaces abound in the Mahindra XYLO with a well defined Centre Console housing space for CDs, magazines, etc.

Leading vendors from India, Japan, America, Germany, etc., have contributed to the development of the Xylo. To name a few, Bosch, Lear, Motherson, Nippon, Subros, JBM, Spicer, Visteon, Lumax, Alf, Asahi, Sharda, Rane and Varroc have played a key role in creating the Xylo.

Overall, Xylo is a feature rich & reasonably priced MUV which will sure set the sales charts on fire. Now we have to see how Tata reacts to this and comes with a better deal with its upcoming Indicruz Xover.

Mahindra Xylo is available in eight attractive colours:

Mahindra Xylo - Fiery black
Mahindra Xylo - Toreador red
Mahindra Xylo - Java brown
Mahindra Xylo - Mint green
Mahindra Xylo - Lucky lilac
Mahindra Xylo - Gold shimmer
Mahindra Xylo - Rocky beige
Mahindra Xylo - Mist silver

Mahindra Xylo is also available is dual tone shades - Black with Silver & Mint green with Rocky Biege.

Hyundai i20

The all-new Hyundai i20 in India - expected Dec’08

There’s a new shape on the street and it’s called the Hyundai i20. As you would expect from a car company that buzzes with fresh ideas, novel solutions and top technology, the Hyundai i20 is the epitome of the modern super-mini. Sharp and stylish on the outside, spacious and versatile inside, it combines comfort, safety and reliability in a package that is affordable and economical.

Hyundai i20 Review - Intelligent Design

Intelligent design has created a car with an airy interior and lots of space. More than that, though, the space is used to generate practical and versatile solutions to different carrying requirements. Like the eye- catching exterior, the inside is superbly designed and beautifully put together using top quality materials. With high levels of comfort and numerous convenience features, the i20 has the capacity to cocoon you on your journey through the rigors of the modern world.

Hyundai i20 - Guaranteed comfort

Everyone has experience of unpredictable weather extremes these days: unbearable heat and steamy rain. None of it matters to the occupants of the i20. Whatever the weather is like outside, the car’s fully automatic temperature control system keeps them in comfort and safety, including those often-overlooked people seated in the back seat. Just dial the required temperature and air flow direction, and relax.

Hyundai i20 picture - speedometer, tachometer and information

Hyundai i20 - Information panel

The instrument panel’s critical dials - a speedometer, engine rev counter and fuel gauge - are simple and clear. They surround a cluster of warning lights and a digital display panel that can reveal the trip distance, outside temperature, distance to empty and fuel consumption rate.

Hyundai i20 pictures - Interior

Hyundai i20 pictures

Hyundai i20 - Something for everyone

The Hyundai i20’s bright, modern interior is a revelation. It contains a wealth of standard equipment, all beautifully put together and all within easy ergonomic reach. Between the front seats, there is a cubby hole with a built-in jack for an MP3 player. On the transmission front, a super-slick five-speed manual is standard equipment across most models in the range. The two most powerful engines in the diesel line-up are fitted with six-speed manual gearboxes as standard equipment. In addition, the 1.4- and 1.6-litre petrol engines are available with four-speed automatics.

Hyundai i20 - Ignition Key

The careful design ethos can be found even in the ignition key which has a remote locking and unlocking facility and convenient folding bayonet.

Hyundai i20 - colors and choice

There is an i20 for everyone. There are four levels of trim and a choice of 10 body colors, vibrant or muted according to preference. At the heart of the cars are the seven power plants that give the i20s their performance, economy, refinement and soul. With a choice of petrol or turbo diesel and manual or automatic, the difficulty for buyers is which combination to choose.

Hyundai i20 - Engine Choices

Hyundai i20 - With a choice of petrol or turbo diesel and manual or automatic, the difficulty for buyers is which combination to choose

Hyundai i20 - Security standards

Rest assured, the Hyundai i20 is your faithful ally in all safety matters. It is one of the safest models on the market thanks to the engineering integrity that went into its suspension, braking and body structure and to the security devices that reduce injuries if an accident does happen. Neither are those outside the car over-looked. If a pedestrian is hit in an accident, the front of the car is designed to absorb as much of the impact energy as possible.

Hyundai i20 - Front air-bags and side curtain air-bags in action.

Hyundai i20 - Passive safety

Electronics are used to prevent the brakes from locking when they are harshly applied (known as ABS) and to control the car’s traction with the aid of an electronic stability package (ESP) if road surfaces become unexpectedly twisty or slippery. These devices automatically control the safe progress of the car, virtually without the driver being aware.

Hyundai i20 - Active safety

In the event of an accident, active safety systems instantly activate the front seat belt pre-tensioners fractionally ahead of the front, side and curtain air bags.

Hyundai i20 - Preview and news from India

Similar to its predecessor Hyundai i-10, the Hyundai i-20 will be manufactured exclusively in India and exported to other countries. The Hyundai i-20 model, which will come in many variants, is expected to be priced anywhere between Rs 5-6 lakh in India.

Designed and developed in Europe to meet the high expectations of European drivers, and benefiting from Hyundai’s unlimited mileage five-year warranty, the i20 arrives fully armed to succeed in Europe’s ultra-competitive-super-mini sector.

Lower, longer and wider than the Getz it replaces, the five-door i20 rides on an extended 2,525mm wheelbase, enhancing its spacious interior architecture. Luxury and versatility blend seamlessly in the new i20’s spacious and generously appointed cabin.

Main Features of Hyundai i20 include:

• Climate control
• Powerful four-speaker radio
• CD and MP3 audio system with integrated data display screen
• Multi-function steering wheel
• Tyre pressure monitoring system
• Height-adjustable driver seat
• Keyless entry
• Electrically operated windows and side mirrors

Hyundai i20’s list of standard features and specifications puts it head and shoulders above the majority of its rivals.

The Hyundai i20’s five-seater interior majors on everyday practicalities, with a 40:60 split flat-folding rear bench with a low lip for easy loading into the 295-liter rear load-bay. The i20 offers numerous intelligently positioned interior storage spaces including a large cooled passenger glove-box and two cup-holders.

In keeping with its dynamic styling, i20 rides on an all-new platform with front MacPherson strut and rear torsion beam suspension to deliver the taut and alert ride quality favored by the European market.

The new rack and pinion steering setup has also been tuned to deliver quick and accurate responses resulting in excellent urban agility.

It is protected by the extensive use of high-tensile steel in the Hyundai’s robust chassis, six airbags - front, side and curtain - fitted as standard, active headrests, front seatbelt pretensioners and latest generation anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution.

It comes with advanced tyre pressure monitoring system, Isofix mounting points in the rear and seatbelt reminders for all five occupants. Hyundai is confident of a full five-star Euro NCAP adult occupant protection and child protection crash test result for the i20.

The Hyundai i20 will debut in September at Paris Auto Show & will be launched in India in December 08 or in first quarter of 2009. It is likely to replace the Hyundai’s B-Segment Hatch - the Getz - all over the world.

But in India Hyundai may continue with the existing Getz model and sell both the models side by side like they are doing with the Accent & Verna.

Hyundai i20 - A cool world of dynamic difference!

Whatever you demand from a car, just think Hyundai. Designed to attract, comfort, protect and perform, every Hyundai has been created to give only one level of service - the highest. Developed using the foremost technologies, tested over the most punishing proving grounds, and built in the most efficient and eco-friendly factories in the world, our cars will always stay the distance. But when you drive one you will also find a new refinement and lifestyle fitness. On the road or off, business, family or leisure time, you’ll discover a new pleasure in driving and a new confident satisfaction in ownership. That is, quite simply, the dynamic difference.

Toyota Prius in India

The Toyota Prius has sold more over the world than all other hybrids combined – it is surely a COOL car. Since the debut of the second generation Prius in 2003 (as a 2004 model), the midsize hatchback sedan has won many awards. Years later, the Prius continues to be a red-hot seller over the world.

Toyota Prius India

The Prius inspires great devotion from its drivers. Satisfaction rates, consistently at 98 percent, are unparalleled. The Prius drives like a charm, humming along silently in all-electric mode at low speeds and revving up its 110 combined gas-electric horsepower for a respectable 0-to-60 rate of 10.2 seconds.

Its stability control system makes it very safe. And the Prius has many cool features from keyless entry, a high-tech fuel use dash display, and a rear-view camera system to help you squeeze into a tight parking spot.

Toyota has confirmed that they are going to launch their Prius model in the Indian market in the coming months – in 2008. Rivals Honda has already become the first automaker in India to launch a hybrid. They recently launched the Honda Civic Hybrid here.

Toyota Prius Interior

Toyota Prius India

Toyota Motors said: “We are studying the Indian market to introduce our hybrid vehicle here. It would be brought here as a CBU, but at current levels of duty, it could cost anywhere between Rs 20-25 lakh,”

Toyota has received a number of enquiries for the Prius, especially from IT professionals, Toyoshima said. When asked about the company’s plans of setting up a small car manufacturing facility in India, he said: “We are still studying the fine details for setting up a small car plant in India and it will take some time before we decide anything.”

Japanese media had reported that Toyota Motor Corp was planning an investment of $330-420 million (about Rs 1,890 crore) for setting up a small car plant near its existing facility in Bangalore.

The Toyota Prius started its life in Japan, where it went on sale in 1997. The sales were not so great in Japan, but Toyota still went ahead with its plan to launch the Prius in U.S. markets. At first, the sales were small although the waiting list for each car was six months. Gradually, the sales also picked up, especially after the redesign of the vehicle in 2004. The Prius has been a very successful car for Toyota, from both technical and marketing standpoint.

At present, it is sold in more than 40 countries worldwide, the major markets being Japan and North America. Toyota and Honda are the two major hybrid vehicle manufacturers in the world today. More than a million Prius were sold by Toyota by May 2008. Honda is also preparing hybrid models of their famous cars - the Accord and Civic. The sales of the hybrid cars are predicted to go upwards, the main cause being the ever increasing prices of fuel.

Toyota Prius Energy Monitor

Toyota Prius India

The Prius is also sometimes referred to as series-parallel because of its capability to run on petrol as well electric power. It is a very advanced vehicle which uses latest state-of-the-art technology. For example, the computer that is present inside the Prius shuts off the engine automatically when the car is stopped, is reversing, or is descending hills/ slopes. This, inturn decreases the fuel consumption in normal city driving. The computer also decides when it should use the engine, motor or both to power the car and recharge the battery to maximize efficiency of the vehicle.

Many celebrities have also gone the hybrid way, with purchase of the Prius. Famous Hollywood stars like Julia Roberts and Leonardo Dicaprio are said to be proud owners of the Prius. It has also won many awards and prizes from some famous magazines, engineering and consumer groups as well.

Toyota Prius is a cool car, welcome to India !

Fiat 500 in India

Fiat 500

The Fiat 500 was launched in Mumbai on 19th July - Friday. This was a relaunch of the Italian car, known as Cinquecento, originally designed by Dante Giocosa, launched 50 years ago in Turin. The car will be available in India in both Diesel and Petrol variants with a starting price of Rs. 14,82,500.

The Fiat 500 comes with following standard features:

• ABS
• 7 Airbags (Knee, driver, Passenger, Side & Head)
• Blue & Me
• Automatic A/C
• Remote door lock
• ORVM with electrical drive & defrost
• Rear window defroster & wiper
• Steering wheel adjuster
• Front power windows
• Split rear seat
• Front fog lamps
• Smoker kit
• Electric servo – assisted steering
• Audio – Radio, CD & Mp3

Fiat 500 India

Fiat 500 lounge Version features:

• Alloy wheel
• Fixed glass roof
• Driver adjustable front seat
• Chromium kit
• Leather steering wheel with 8 buttons

Fiat 500 India

Fiat 500 sport version features:

• Alloy wheel
• Dark windows
• Sporty leather steering wheel with 8 buttons
• Sports seat with special countered padding
• Rear spoiler
• Chrome inserts on doors

Fiat 500

Whether you’re buying your first car, or just replacing an old one, the Fiat 500 is the car for you.

Why? Because it’s a car designed by you!

Take your pick from 4 different trim levels and 3 engines, not to mention a host of optional extras designed to enhance the style, sportiness and comfort of the Fiat 500. With over 500,000 different combinations available, you’re sure to find your perfect model.

Created by the Fiat Style Centre, the new Fiat 500 is a small 3-door car.

It is 355cm long, 163cm wide, 149cm high, and has a wheelbase of 230 cm. You could even describe it as a cute, playful compact with soft rounded styling.

Fiat 500 Pictures

Fiat 500 India

Fiat 500 Exterior

The front combines the family feeling of the most recent Fiat models, with the distinctive elements of the first Fiat 500. For instance, you’ll notice features like the round upper headlights above and main beam lights below, as well as the familiar Fiat 500 whiskers and logo.

On the side, the mid-line slopes slightly at the front giving the Fiat 500 an impression of sturdiness.

While the rear features a distinctive chrome handle reminiscent of the number plate light holder found on the original Fiat 500 model, and similar in shape to that of a bicycle saddle.

To complete the look, there’s a choice of 12 body colours available - pastel, metallic and a pearl finish - all perfectly matching the wide range of interior fabrics and leathers.

And not forgetting the various options for customization of your Fiat 500: from stickers to alloy wheels, badges to style details, elegance and comfort.

Fiat 500 Interior Pictures

Fiat 500 India

Fiat 500 Interior

On the inside, the Fiat 500 offers a welcoming, protective environment for both the driver and passengers. This is largely due to the large ring bordering the entire inner space, the great attention to detail, quality materials used, and instruments that aren’t just beautiful to look at, but are also easy to use. Chrome elements, two-tone seats, and a dashboard that perfectly matches the body colour combine with handy storage compartments and small details, like a fragrance dispenser, to create an environment that is both elegant and functional and can comfortably accommodate four people.

Fiat 500 India

Fiat 500 Italian design

Italian tradition, immaculate details and harmonious forms typical of the cars from the Fifties to the Seventies, combined with the influences of Italian culture, fashion and new guidelines merge to inspire the designers of Fiat 500.

Fiat tells us that the new 500 is not “a car that ‘looks like’ a 500 but, rather, one that ‘could be’ a 500 again. That said, at first glance, you could be forgiven for thinking that Fiat had never ceased production of the 500 and that the new model is the simply the latest example and the result of natural progression !

Fiat 500 India

Fiat 500 is a cool automobile - welcome to India !

Pope Benedict XVI has a new ride made by Piaggio which features just three wheels and is made from our own Indian rickshaw platform which is popular in India, where the vehicle was created - MADE IN INDIA - COOL

These vehicles were given a complete look and feel of a Popemobile by putting a white coloured hood, white tyres, seat upholstery, and white body paint. The insignia on the doors is specially handcrafted. The entire vehicle was given a complete unique decor to suit the aura of His Holiness. Piaggio hopes that Pope Benedict XVI can find a use for the vehicle at the Vatican, perhaps when touring the gardens !

Honda Civic Hybrid

Japan’s Honda Motor Co would start selling a hybrid version of its Civic sedan in India from the end of this month ( June 2008 ) as it chases Toyota motor corp ( Prius ) in the green car race.

Honda, Japan’s second largest automaker after Toyota, said it would be the first gasoline-electric hybrid car sold in the fast growing Indian market. The Honda Civic hybrid car will be imported from Japan and priced at Rs. 21.5 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

Toyota beat Honda to the hybrid market by two years with its Prius in 1997. The improved prius in 2003 became an instant hit helping Japan’s top automaker win a reputation overnight as the leader in green technology cars. But Honda is hoping to change that.

<- Toyota Prius

The new Honda Civic hybrid car promises to cut down your ever-ballooning fuel bill at the right time as fuel is becoming very very expensive - however, it also promises to make a big hole in your pocket in advance Priced at Rs21.5 lakh, the Civic Hybrid is available in one version and two colours - white and silver. Honda Siel claims the car delivers an economic mileage of 17-21 km to the litre. It is 50% more efficient than the petrol version but heavier on the pocket in advance. What makes the car smooth to drive is a combination of a regular engine and an electric motor - while we have not tested the Honda Civic Hybrid yet, the prius hybrid electric car is extremely silent when it runs on electric motor, one feels like the car is just gliding - we suppose it should be a similar cool experience when the Honda civic hybrid runs on electric motor. Overall a cool new car for India and for people who care about the earth. Hope to see you around soon you green cars.

Hyundai cars are known for their commanding Aerodynamics & i10 is no exception with a significantly low co-efficient of drag. The curved roof gives a Sporty look. Wide black waistline molding imparts Sporty dynamic looks while protecting the body from nicks & dents. A wide sweep angle maximizes vision on rainy days while the washer keeps the rear view clean & clear

The i10’s sunroof adds the pleasure of experiencing the open air when you are traveling to your destination.

Featuring one touch opening, the sunroof has both slide and tilt functions

The proud owner of i10 can now fully indulge in passionate driving. The new first in class i-shift makes changing gears as easy as it could get.

The refined rotary type Air Conditioner will keep you cool even during the hot summer season while low noise levels mean you can really appreciate the audio system.

Feast your eyes on the most distinguished interiors you have seen in a long time. Check out the cockpit style seating wherein every control is within easy reach.

The eye catching Dual tone Beige interiors offer the consumer richness within by giving a premium feel.

The ergonomically designed long front seat of i10 has the back rest and head rest as a single unit - a perfect resting platform for the occupant’s back and neck for a fatigue free driving experience.

Sturdy and deep glove box easily accommodates large, heavy items.

Located beside the handbrake in the center console, the Floor Console Tray is conveniently placed between the front seats and is useful for holding cups and small utility items securely.

The door-mounted pockets are useful for a host of items, from maps and diaries to small snacks while on a long journey.

Front and rear power windows offer enhanced comfort and convenience to the occupants with the press of a button.

The Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) of i10 offers efficient steering force, enhanced fuel economy and reduced emissions.

The tilt steering allows drivers of all statures to adjust the steering according to his or her convenience.

No detail has been overlooked where passenger comfort and safety are concerned. i10 comes with the rear headrests that adjusts up and down.

The front map lamp provides focussed illumination for front seat occupants.

The roof mounted grab handle makes getting in and out of the i10 that much easier.

Convenient for charging phones, running laptops or personal sound systems, the 12v outlet is mounted in the centre console.

A fully integrated 2-Din audio system with CD player and MP3 compatability delivers customised sound.

The new-age technological muscle power of Hyundai is evident in the high performance car beating the best. i10 takes this reputation of Hyundai miles ahead with its new, super efficient, intelligent responsive drive engine iRDE, a 1.1 L powerhouse with newly designed ECU that yields an output higher than all in its class.

The multi reflector clear glass fog lamp ensures maximum visibility for the driver in adverse weather conditions while adding to the sporty image of the car.

Under normal condition it operates as ELR seat belt.

It contains an electronically controlled retractor called pretensioner

In the event of crash Pretensioner will tighten the belt almost instantaneously to restrict movement ( sensors will trigger explosively expanding gas in the pretentioner unit which in turn retracts the belt ) Occupant prevented from moving forward and hitting the steering wheel or instrument panel.

Hyundai i10 colors:

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Boxter - Rs. 45,56,000

Cayman - Rs. 49,11,000

911 Carrera - Rs. 74,00,000

911 Carrera S - Rs. 83,90,000

911 Carrera Cabriolet - Rs. 83,90,000

911 Carrera 4 - Rs. 79,71,000

911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet - Rs. 89,61,000

Cayenne - Rs. 58,06,125

Porsche cars in India is cool