Featured

Tata Nexon: India’s #1 Best Selling SUV For Two Years In A Row!


Multitude of powertrain and variant options fueling its growth

Tata Nexon

In a remarkable achievement, the Tata Nexon has successfully maintained its position as the leading SUV in terms of sales for the second consecutive year. During FY 2022-2023, the esteemed Indian car manufacturer sold an impressive 1,72,138 units of this compact SUV. It comes as no surprise that the Nexon has become the most sought-after SUV in India, surpassing competitors like the Hyundai Creta and Maruti Suzuki Brezza.

Tata Nexon

The Tata Nexon has experienced impressive sales growth, reflecting its increasing popularity. In FY 2021-2022, the Nexon recorded sales of 1,24,130 units. Fast forward to FY 2022-2023, and the numbers soared, showing a remarkable growth rate of over 39 percent. On average, the Nexon sold an impressive 14,344 units per month during this period. The highlight of its sales performance was November 2022, where it achieved its highest-ever monthly sales of 15,081 units.

A major factor contributing to the widespread admiration for the Tata Nexon is its wide range of variants, offering customers an extensive selection. With a diverse range of diesel and petrol trims, the Nexon caters to the preferences of automotive enthusiasts.

Also Check Out: Tata Nexon Reaches 5 Lakh Families In India

Tata Nexon

For those who seek high performance, the Nexon offers a powerful 1.2-liter turbocharged petrol engine that delivers an impressive 120 PS. Additionally, the 1.5-liter engine boasts an admirable 110 PS. These engines are paired with a refined 6-speed manual gearbox or a smooth 6-speed AMT, providing options for individual preferences.

In addition, the Tata Nexon is renowned for its 5-star safety rating. This plays a significant role as today’s customers prioritize a car’s safety rating and other safety features.

Tata Nexon Interior

Finally, the Tata Nexon offers an extensive range of premium features that entice buyers. These include a sunroof, ventilated front seats, rain-sensing wipers, cruise control, and a tire pressure monitoring system, among others. Customers also benefit from auto headlights and a 10.25-inch infotainment unit that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Thanks to its premium positioning in the compact SUV segment, the Tata Nexon has become a well-known name in Indian households.

The Nexon stands out in the market by offering features like a sunroof and touchscreen at a price below Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom). The SUV’s price range starts from Rs. 7,79,900 and goes up to Rs. 14,49,900.

Read More on : Tata Nexon AMT

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Thursday Throwback: Exploring The MPV Predecessors Of The Maruti Invicto


Maruti’s best sellers from the hatchback and SUV segments make it easy to overlook the brand’s dominance in the MPV space

The Maruti Invicto MPV is set to launch in July, and it will be the most expensive Maruti on sale to date, with an expected price of around Rs 19 lakh and up (ex-showroom). Maruti is the most popular carmaker in India, and even in the MPV segment, it’s a leader with the Ertiga and Eeco. While we expect the Invicto to help Maruti gain a foothold in the premium MPV space, the brand has a long history in the MPV segment.

We will take a trip down India’s automotive history and remember all the Maruti MPVs that came before the Invicto and learn about the carmaker’s journey in this segment.

Maruti Omni

Maruti Omni

In 1984, right after the launch of the Maruti 800, the Maruti Van was introduced. It was later renamed Omni in 1988.

The Omni became an instant hit, not only in the commercial segment but also with families. Its simple concept of transporting maximum passengers at minimal cost made it highly successful.

Interesting Fact: The Omni was launched for under Rs 1 lakh in 1984!

Maruti Omni

In 1998, the Omni received its first facelift with subtle design changes inside and out. It continued with the same engine as the Maruti 800 and manual transmission. Another facelift was introduced 7 years later, and it remained largely unchanged until its discontinuation in 2019.

After 35 years of service, the Omni retired, leaving its duties to the Eeco.

Maruti Versa

Maruti Versa

In 2001, Maruti launched the Versa as a better-equipped alternative to the Omni. It had a starting price of around Rs 4 lakh (ex-showroom), which was considered expensive at that time.

The Versa aimed to blend utility with comfort while accommodating 6-7 passengers. However, its price and basic van-like styling didn’t appeal to buyers. The more attractive Esteem sedan, priced only slightly higher, was preferred by those considering buying the Versa.

The Maruti Versa featured a modest 1.3-litre petrol engine and a 5-speed manual transmission. It had decent equipment for its time, including premium fabric upholstery, adjustable steering column, rear AC vents, power windows, central locking, and adjustable seats.

In 2009, the Versa was phased out, and the carmaker learned the lesson of simplicity and affordability.

Also Read: Top 10 Indian Celebrity Brand Ambassadors For Indian Cars!

Maruti Eeco

Maruti Eeco

In 2010, the Eeco was introduced as the successor to the Versa. It was essentially a facelifted version of the Versa, maintaining the same van-like appearance but with stripped-down features and comforts. It was designed to be an affordable option for transporting goods or people.

With the removal of several features from the Versa, the Eeco came at a very aggressive price. Starting at around Rs 2.7 lakh (ex-showroom), it was priced at half of the Versa’s cost. The Eeco lacked vital features like power steering, power windows, central locking, airbags, and AC (optional).

The simplicity of its design made the Eeco rugged, spacious for cargo, and cost-effective, leading to its success in the commercial segment. It is widely used as taxis, ambulances, and school vans among lower economic sections, and as cargo vans. The Eeco is one of India’s best-selling cars, averaging around 9,000 units per month.

Over the 13 years of being on sale, its exterior remains identical to the original version, with slight interior refreshments. The only updates have been to meet the latest regulations.

Maruti Ertiga

Maruti Ertiga 2012

In 2012, Maruti launched its first “proper” MPV, the Ertiga, at the Auto Expo. It was positioned as a Life Utility Vehicle (LUV) and was priced at Rs 5.89 lakh. The Ertiga featured a three-row configuration and had a stylish look with extended hatchback-like design.

The Ertiga was also the first Maruti MPV to offer a diesel engine, which was known for its efficiency of around 20kmpl. It also came with a new 1.4-litre petrol engine that provided a refined driving experience. The Ertiga offered car-like comfort and driving characteristics, a significant improvement over the Eeco.

With seating for seven people and reasonable comfort, the Ertiga quickly gained popularity among buyers seeking an affordable family car with manageable proportions. It faced minimal competition and attracted demand from private buyers as well as fleets. In just 4 years, it had crossed the 2.25 lakh sales mark.

FUN FACT – The Maruti Ertiga was one of the earliest MPVs to receive a decent 3-star safety rating.

In 2018, the Ertiga received a comprehensive facelift, which included more efficient petrol and diesel engines, additional features, and a more stylish appeal. The petrol variant also offered a 4-speed automatic transmission, enhancing its practicality. By this time, it had already become a segment leader with over 2.25 lakh units sold.

In 2018, a new generation of Ertiga was introduced based on Suzuki’s new HEARTECT platform. It retained the diesel engine but introduced a new 1.5-litre petrol engine. The new Ertiga featured several improved features, including dual airbags, a rear camera, a touchscreen infotainment system, ESP, and hill-hold function. The pricing of the new generation ranged from Rs 7.44 lakh to Rs 13.90 lakh (ex-showroom).

In 2020, with the implementation of BS6 emission norms, the diesel option was discontinued for the Ertiga. The latest mild facelift took place in 2022, and the Ertiga continues to be a segment leader in the MPV space.

Maruti XL6

Maruti XL6

As the design of the Ertiga began to look outdated, Maruti saw an opportunity for a better-looking but still affordable compact MPV to be sold through its premium Nexa dealerships. The XL6 was introduced in 2019 as a more stylish, premium, and comfortable version of the Ertiga. It is strictly a six-seater, unlike the seven-seat Ertiga.

At the launch, the XL6 was priced at around Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom) and was available in two fully-loaded variants. It offered a 1.5-litre petrol engine with a choice of manual and automatic transmissions. In 2022, it received a mild facelift, refreshing its design and features. With several additions over the Ertiga and a more stylish appearance, the XL6 can be considered an upgrade in the MPV space.

Maruti Invicto

Maruti Invicto MPV

The Maruti Invicto is essentially a rebadged version of the Toyota Innova Hycross, with slightly different looks. It is the result of a collaboration between Suzuki and Toyota to exchange cars, platforms, and technologies.

The Invicto will be a premium offering with features like a panoramic sunroof, a 10-inch touchscreen system, wireless charger, ventilated front seats, and second-row powered Ottoman seats. It will also be the first Maruti car to feature the radar-based ADAS safety feature.

The Invicto will be powered by the Innova’s 2-litre petrol-hybrid engine, known for its efficiency of 23.24kmpl. It is one of Maruti’s most powerful powertrains introduced in the last decade.

Final Thoughts

Maruti has been known for its high-volume models, except for its initial Nexa offerings. However, the brand has expanded its image by introducing feature-rich products that compete globally and are in high demand.

The Invicto represents how Maruti has learned from its past and established itself as a multi-faceted brand. In terms of MPVs, Maruti offers a range from the basic Eeco to a premium MPV with a justifiable price tag of around Rs 20 lakh and higher.

Featured

Don’t Slip Up: Common Car Care Mistakes to Avoid This Monsoon


Discover essential tips and expert advice to keep your vehicle running smoothly and protect it from potential damage caused by the rain

During the monsoon season, it’s important to give your vehicle extra attention to ensure its performance, safety, and longevity. In this article, we will discuss the most common car care mistakes to avoid during the monsoon. By learning from these mistakes, you can save yourself from costly repairs and keep your car in good shape throughout the rainy season.

Neglecting Regular Washing

Don’t assume that the rain will clean your car for you. In fact, rainwater can contain harmful pollutants and acidic elements that can damage your car’s paint. It’s important to regularly wash and wax your vehicle to maintain its shine and protect the paintwork. Don’t forget to wash the tires and wheels as well.

Skipping Tire Maintenance

Wet roads increase the risk of hydroplaning, which can result in losing control of the car while braking or changing direction. Make sure your tires have proper tread depth and are properly inflated. Fresh treads are deeper and provide better water dispersal. Also, remember to rotate your tires regularly for even wear and better traction.

Also Read: Debunking The Myths And Methodology Around Modern Engine Break-in Methods

Wonky Windshield Wiper

If your wiper blades are streaky and worn out, they can compromise visibility during heavy rainfall. Replace them if they leave smudges or make unusual noises. Consider using a rain repellent solution on the glass surfaces to enhance visibility and help water droplets roll off.

Overlooking Proper Drainage

Clear clogged drainage channels, including those around the sunroof and windshield, to prevent water leakage into the interior of your car. Inspect and clean the gutters to ensure water flows away from your vehicle. This is especially important if your car has a sunroof, as improper maintenance can lead to water damage and rust.

Failing to Protect the Interior

Moisture can seep inside your car during the monsoon season, leading to unpleasant odors and potential damage to your upholstery. If you live in an area with frequent rainfall, consider investing in waterproof seat covers to protect the interior from rainwater and mud. Switching to rubber mats can also help protect the interior in the long run.

Ignoring the Battery

The monsoon weather can be harsh on your car’s battery. Regularly check the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure a strong connection. Consider getting a battery check-up to avoid unexpected breakdowns.

Also Check Out: Purrfectly Clean: Car Care Tips Every Pet Owner Needs to Know

Overlooking Undercarriage Cleaning

If your car is parked in a waterlogged area or if you’ve driven through standing water, it’s important to clean the undercarriage to remove debris and protect vital components. Allowing debris to linger can cause rust issues and damage important parts of your vehicle.

Forgetting the Emergency Kit

Be prepared for unexpected situations. While new cars usually come with a basic first aid kit, it may not be enough during the rainy season. Keep essentials like a flashlight, emergency tire pump/repair kit, first-aid supplies, jumper cables, and a rain poncho or umbrella in your car.

Remember, taking preventive care of your car can go a long way in ensuring its performance and longevity, especially during the monsoon season. Stay proactive and enjoy a safe and trouble-free driving experience!

Featured

Mahindra Scorpio Nameplate Reaches 9 Lakh Production Milestone


The production milestone includes both the Scorpio Classic and Scorpio N models

Mahindra Scorpio production milestone

  • Mahindra introduced the Scorpio SUV more than two decades ago.

  • The Scorpio is currently available in two versions: the Scorpio Classic and the new-generation Scorpio N.

  • As of May 2023, Mahindra had over 1 lakh units of Scorpio on order.

  • The Scorpio nameplate is still behind the Bolero in terms of lifetime sales, as the Bolero has already crossed the 14 lakh unit mark.

  • The Scorpio duo is priced between Rs 13 lakh and Rs 24.52 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

The Mahindra Scorpio nameplate has achieved another milestone, with a total production of 9 lakh units. The Scorpio was introduced by Mahindra in 2002 and has been popular due to its high-seating position, road presence, and all-terrain capabilities. Recently, Mahindra launched the facelifted Scorpio Classic and the new-generation Scorpio N, both of which have contributed to reaching this milestone.

However, the Scorpio nameplate is still behind the Bolero in terms of lifetime sales. The Bolero, one of Mahindra’s best-selling vehicles for over a decade, has already sold more than 14 lakh units.

Recent Numbers

In May 2023, Mahindra produced nearly 8,000 units of the Scorpio (including both the Classic and N models).

Mahindra Scorpio production milestone

The Scorpio is one of the most sought-after models in Mahindra’s lineup. As of May this year, there were more than a lakh bookings pending delivery for the Scorpio Classic and Scorpio N. With plans to increase production, Mahindra could produce the next lakh units of Scorpio in less than a year.

Related: Mahindra Scorpio N Completes 1 Year In India: Here’s A Recap

Prices And Rivals

The Mahindra Scorpio Classic is priced between Rs 13 lakh and Rs 16.81 lakh, while the Scorpio N ranges from Rs 13.05 lakh to Rs 24.52 lakh (all prices ex-showroom Delhi).

Mahindra Scorpio Classic and Scorpio N

The Scorpio Classic provides a rugged alternative to monocoque compact SUVs like the Hyundai Creta, Maruti Grand Vitara, and Skoda Kushaq, while the Scorpio N competes with the Tata Harrier, Safari, and Hyundai Alcazar. The new-generation Scorpio N also offers a four-wheel-drive option and serves as an off-road-capable alternative to the Mahindra XUV700.

Also Read: Yami Gautam Adds BMW X7 To Her Luxury Car Collection

Read More on : Mahindra Scorpio N on road price

Featured

Survey Shows Car Buyers Prioritize Safety Ratings and Airbags Over Fuel Economy


A recent survey conducted among Indian car buyers reveals that 9 out of 10 consumers value crash test safety ratings for all car models.

Skoda Kushaq Crash Test

Skoda Auto India partnered with NIQ BASES to conduct a customer survey on feature preferences in personal car selection. The results highlight the growing importance of vehicle safety ratings and features in car buying decisions.

Mahindra Scorpio N Global NCAP

The survey, consisting of 1,000 respondents from 10 states, asked participants to prioritize the top features they consider when buying a new car from a list of 10 options. According to the results, the highest importance score was given to the car’s crash test rating (22.7 percent), followed by the number of airbags (21.6 percent), and then fuel efficiency (15 percent). Other features included in the survey were roof type, ventilated or non-ventilated seats, electronic stability control, build quality, transmission type, body type, and performance and dynamics.

Including the preference for electronic stability control, 47.6 percent of respondents prioritized safety features above other factors in their car buying decision.

Also Read: How Big Is The Honda Elevate When Compared To Its Compact SUV Rivals?

According to the survey, around 22.2 percent of buyers preferred a car with a five-star safety rating, while only 6.8 percent were willing to opt for a zero-star rated car. Currently, there are eight cars with strong five-star safety ratings from Global NCAP:

  1. Volkswagen Virtus / Skoda Slavia

  2. Volkswagen Taigun / Skoda Kushaq

  3. Mahindra XUV700

  4. Mahindra Scorpio N

  5. Tata Punch

  6. Tata Altroz

  7. Tata Nexon

  8. Mahindra XUV300

In addition, there are over 10 cars that have scored four stars in GNCAP crash tests, indicating that many manufacturers are actively working towards building safer cars and prioritizing passenger safety in the event of an accident.

The Indian government is also encouraging manufacturers to produce safer and more robust vehicles. Over the years, regulations have been implemented mandating features such as dual airbags, ABS with EBD, seat belt reminders, speed alert systems, and rear parking sensors in all vehicles. Additionally, efforts are underway to establish a localized crash test rating system named Bharat NCAP, as an alternative to the Global NCAP. While these safety measures may increase the cost of cars, they are considered worthwhile investments.

Read More on : Slavia on road price

News

Chinese Manufacturer Sarkcyber Presents The HC 200 Ursa Electric Scooter

Chinese manufacturer Sarkcyber has introduced a new electric scooter called the HC 200 Ursa. Electric scooters have gained popularity in urban areas due to their user-friendly design and ease of operation. Many electric scooters in the market are made in China, including the HC 200 Ursa. Sarkcyber, a new player in the industry, has a team that includes former Honda employees, indicating their expertise in the field. The HC 200 Ursa is designed for urban and suburban environments and has a maximum speed of 70 km/h (44 mph). It features a modern minimalist design, a digital display for ride information, smartphone connectivity, a remote key, and LED lights. The scooter is powered by a 60V, 45Ah battery that allows for a range of approximately 75 km (47 miles) at an average speed of 45 km/h (28 mph). It can be fully charged in three hours. The HC 200 Ursa has 14-inch wheels for stability and balance and is equipped with front and rear disc brakes with a combined braking system. The scooter is priced at 4,390 Euros ($4,770 USD) in the European market and is available for purchase through the MBP and Keeway dealer network.

News

Suzuki Unveils Limited GSX-S1000 Race Edition In France

Suzuki has announced its plans to withdraw from racing, but the brand will continue its racing exploits in the EWC with the Suzuki Endurance Racing Team. To celebrate their racing success, Suzuki has released a limited-edition race edition of the GSX-S1000 naked bike. This special edition features a unique colorway inspired by the Suzuki Endurance Racing Team, as well as several upgrades for improved performance. The bike comes with a tail tidy, GB Racing engine and crankcase protectors, a seat cowl, red-painted Brembo calipers, and an Akrapovic slip-on system. It also includes a numbered SERT FW plate and a Welcome Pack with a cap and a T-shirt. Powering the bike is Suzuki’s 999cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, inline-four cylinder engine with a maximum output of 152 horsepower. The Suzuki GSX-S1000 Race Edition is a limited release exclusive to the French market and retails for 16,999 Euros ($18,468 USD), which is 3,500 Euros more than the standard model.

News

Rare 2020 Bimota Tesi H2 Supercharged Monster Is Looking For A Good Home

Are you looking for the perfect gift for that special someone (even if that special someone is you)? It doesn’t happen every day, but folks, there’s currently a 2020 Bimota Tesi H2 that’s located in southern California and is looking for a good home.  

For those unfamiliar, the Bimota Tesi H2 is the first product of the partnership between Kawasaki and Bimota. Historically, Bimota is an Italian chassis specialist that has made great use of engines supplied by other manufacturers, including Ducati in the past. As you may know (or even guess), the Tesi H2 uses the same supercharged engine that powers the Kawasaki Ninja H2—only, of course, now neatly nestled inside the latest iteration of Pierluigi Marconi’s hub-center steering design. 

According to Bimota, thanks to ram air, the supercharged 998cc engine makes 239 horsepower. It’s outfitted with plenty of other top-shelf componentry, including a numbered Arrow exhaust, unbelievably gorgeous exhaust headers that sound as good as they look, twin Öhlins TTX rear shocks, and of course gobs and gobs of carbon fiber, as far as the eye can see. The exhaust baffle is currently removed from the bike but will be included in the sale so it can be replaced if the new owner wants it. 


2020 Bimota Tesi H2 - Tail

11 Photos

Out of a run of 250 Tesi H2s produced, this is number six. It had a total of 1,438 miles on the clock when Iconic Motorbike Auctions first listed it for sale, but the listing notes that the total miles will likely go up as they do ride it on occasion.  

It’s currently located at the company’s Santa Monica headquarters in California, where it’s listed for sale as a Buy It Now bike with a nonrefundable deposit of $4,550 if you’re the person who ends up buying it. It comes with a Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO) form from Bimota Spirit in Raleigh, North Carolina. Iconic also advises that it is not eligible for registration in the state of California. The Buy It Now price is $65,000, and it comes complete with both the Bimota bike cover for this bike, as well as the owner’s manual. 

News

MVCagiva Crazy Weekend 150 Is Not An Italian Honda Adventure Scooter

Adventure-styled scooters are gaining popularity in China, with various brands offering rugged-looking models for everyday transportation. One such brand is MVCagiva, a new player in the Chinese market. While the styling of their Crazy Weekend 150 scooter may seem appealing on its own, it undeniably bears a striking resemblance to Honda’s X-ADV, ADV150, and ADV160 models. In fact, a reverse image search of the Crazy Weekend 150 prompts Google to suggest the Honda scooters as possible matches.

Adding to the confusion, the Crazy Weekend 150 is powered by an engine provided by Qianjiang Motors, a subsidiary of Geely that partnered with MV Agusta in 2020 and also has a deal with Harley-Davidson. This connection raises questions about the overlap of design and engineering between the MVCagiva scooter and other established brands.


MVCagiva Crazy Weekend 150 - Dash

10 Photos

Despite these similarities, the MVCagiva Crazy Weekend 150 stands on its own as a 150cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled scooter. It boasts various features, such as LED lighting, dual-channel ABS, a full-color TFT dash, keyless start, an adjustable windscreen, and a forward-facing camera. The base model starts at 14,998 yuan (around $2,068), while an accessorized version with additional storage options and protective pieces costs 15,998 yuan (around $2,206).

The Crazy Weekend 150 is also known by the model identifier KJW150T, with the name Cagiva sometimes pronounced as “Kajiwa” in English. There are rumors of a future model called the KJW 700 that will utilize a larger Qianjiang-sourced powerplant.

News

Triumph India Opens Pre-Bookings For New Speed 400 And Scrambler 400 X

Triumph has finally unveiled its much-anticipated Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X models, which were developed in partnership with Indian manufacturer Bajaj. These small-displacement bikes have received positive first impressions and are expected to be strong competitors in the market. The new models feature a 398cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, single-cylinder engine that delivers 40 horsepower and 26 pound-feet of torque, making them more performance-oriented than rivals like Royal Enfield. Stylistically, the bikes possess a retro-chic look with LED headlights and gold anodized inverted front forks.

The global release of the Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X is expected to take place between 2023 and the start of 2024, with the Asian market being a key target. In India, the bikes will be unveiled on July 5, 2023, and deliveries will begin in August. Triumph India has already opened pre-bookings for the models, requiring a token amount of just Rs 2,000 ($24). The expected retail price is around Rs 300,000 ($3,656 USD), which suggests that the bikes will be successful in the Indian market and the rest of Asia.

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