Tag Archives: hatchbacks

Maruti Hatchbacks September 2023 Waiting Period: Alto K10, Celerio, Wagon R, Swift, Baleno & More

September 14, 2023 Prafful Singh

4 out of these 7 hatchbacks are readily available in a few cities such as New Delhi, Pune and Surat

Maruti is the top-selling car manufacturer and consistently holds the top position with its extensive range of affordable options. Many of these budget-friendly cars belong to the hatchback segment, and Maruti offers a total of seven hatchbacks to choose from. The Wagon R, Swift, and Alto are among the most popular choices. If you’re planning to buy one of these hatchbacks, here’s how long you might have to wait:

Cities	Waiting Period
Cities	Swift	Celerio	Wagon R	S-Presso	Alto K10	Baleno	Ignis
New Delhi	3 months	3 month	3 months	3 – 4 months	No Waiting	2 months	2 months
Bengaluru	2 months	2 months	2 months	2 months	1 month	0.5 Month	0.5 Month
Mumbai	3 months	2 – 3 months	2 months	3 months	2 months	1 – 1.5 months	1 – 1.5 months
Hyderabad	2 – 4 months	2 months	2 months	2 months	2 months	1 month	0.5 Month
Pune	No Waiting	2 months	2 – 3 months	1 – 2 months	No Waiting	0.5 Month	0.5 Month
Chennai	No Waiting	2 months	2 months	2 months	No Waiting	0.5 Month	0.5 Month
Jaipur	1.5 – 2 months	2 months	2 – 3 months	3 months	2 months	0.5 Month	0.5 Month
Ahmedabad	2 – 3 months	2 – 3 months	2 months	3 months	2 months	2 – 2.5 months	2 – 2.5 months
Gurugram	1.5 – 2 months	1.5 months	2 months	2 months	1.5 months	No Waiting	No Waiting
Lucknow	1.5 – 2 months	2.5 months	2 – 2.5 months	2 months	2 months	0.5 – 1 month	0.5 – 1 month
Kolkata	1.5 months	2 months	1.5 – 2.5 months	2.5 months	1 month	No Waiting	No Waiting
Thane	2 months	2 months	2 months	2 months	1 month	1 – 1.5 months	1 – 1.5 months
Surat	No Waiting	2 months	2 – 3 months	2 months	2 months	No Waiting	No Waiting
Ghaziabad	2 – 2.5 months	2 months	2 – 3 months	2 months	2 months	0.5 month	0.5 month
Chandigarh	2 – 3 months	2 months	2 – 3 months	2 months	No Waiting	1 month	1.5 months
Coimbatore	2 – 3 months	1.5 – 2 months	2 months	2 months	3 months	1 month	1 month
Patna	2 – 3 months	2 months	2 – 3 months	2 months	1 month	1 month	1 month
Faridabad	2 months	2 months	2 months	2 months	1 month	1 month	1 month
Indore	1.5 months	2 months	1.5 – 2.5 months	2.5 months	1 month	0.5 month	1 month
Noida	2 – 4 months	2 months	2 months	2 months	2 months	1 month	1 month

Key Takeaways

The Maruti Swift has the highest waiting period of up to four months in Hyderabad and Noida, but customers in Pune, Chennai, and Surat can get their hands on this midsize hatchback without any wait time.

Also Check Out: Hyundai Venue Overtakes The Tata Nexon To Become The Second Best-selling Sub-4m SUV In August 2023

The Wagon R has a similar waiting period to the Celerio. The highest wait time is up to three months in cities like New Delhi and Jaipur, with an average waiting period of two months.

The S-Presso also has an average waiting period of just two months. However, customers in Delhi will have the longest wait time of up to four months to get their hands on it.

Maruti’s most affordable offering, the Alto K10, is readily available in Delhi, Pune, Chennai, and Chandigarh. In other cities, the average waiting time is just one to two months.

The premium hatchback in Maruti’s lineup, the Baleno, can be taken home immediately in Gurugram, Kolkata, and Surat. In most other cities, the waiting period is just one month, with the longest wait time of 2.5 months in Ahmedabad.

The Ignis has an average wait time of just one month, similar to the Baleno. It is also readily available in Gurugram, Kolkata, and Surat.

These Are The 10 Best-equipped CNG Cars That Are Also Lighter On The Wallet At The Same Time

August 14, 2023 Prafful Singh

While this list appears to be filled with hatchbacks and a couple of micro SUVs, there are a few oddballs in the form of a sub-4m sedan, a subcompact SUV and even a crossover SUV

The CNG space in the Indian automobile industry has witnessed tremendous action in the last few years thanks to the introduction of new models featuring modern technology and features. Not to forget, they are also one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles available today and also provide better performance than their predecessors. With many options now available under the Rs 10 lakh slab, here’s a look at the best-equipped models that you can consider:

Maruti Alto K10

Specification	1-litre petrol+CNG
Power	57PS
Torque	82Nm
Transmission	5-speed MT
Claimed Fuel Efficiency	33.85km/kg

The Maruti Alto K10 VXi CNG comes with full wheel covers, front power windows, basic music system, keyless entry, and manual AC. It also has dual front airbags, ABS with EBD and rear parking sensors for safety.
It is priced at Rs 5.96 lakh.

Tata Tiago

Specification	1.2-litre petrol+CNG
Power	73.5PS
Torque	95Nm
Transmission	5-speed MT
Claimed Fuel Efficiency	26.49km/kg

The Tata Tiago CNG made its market debut in 2022 but recently got updated to use the Altroz-like twin-cylinder technology. As a result, it now offers a more usable boot.
Customers can choose from five variants: XE, XM, XT, XZ+ and XZ+ Dual Tone (DT).
Tata is the first and the only brand yet to provide a direct ‘CNG mode’ start option, with push-button start too.

Feature highlights of the Tiago CNG include a 7-inch touchscreen, 4-speaker music system with four tweeters, auto climate control, and auto folding ORVMs. Tata has equipped it with safety features such as dual front airbags, corner stability control, TPMS and a reversing camera with dynamic guidelines.
The Tata Tiago NRG, the standard hatchback’s crossover version with increased ground clearance and additional cladding, is also available with the same CNG powertrain in the XT and XZ trims.
Tata retails the Tiago CNG between Rs 6.55 lakh and Rs 8.20 lakh.
The Tiago NRG CNG, on the other hand, is priced from Rs 7.65 lakh to Rs 8.10 lakh.
In the CNG space, the Tiago rivals the Maruti Celerio and Wagon R.

Hyundai Grand i10 Nios

Specification	1.2-litre petrol+CNG
Power	69PS
Torque	95Nm
Transmission	5-speed MT

The optional CNG kit is available on the mid-spec Magna and Sportz variants of the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios, priced at Rs 7.58 lakh and Rs 8.13 lakh, respectively.

Even the CNG variants of the Hyundai hatchback are feature-laden and offer an 8-inch touchscreen system, keyless entry, height-adjustable driver seat, cooled glovebox, and auto AC with rear AC vents. Passenger safety is taken care of by four airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), TPMS and a reversing camera.
Its only direct rival, in both petrol and CNG options, is the Maruti Swift.

Maruti Baleno

Specification	1.2-litre petrol+CNG
Power	77.5PS
Torque	98.5Nm
Transmission	5-speed MT
Claimed Fuel Efficiency	30.61km/kg

In the premium hatchback segment, there are three cars with a CNG option to pick from, two of them shared products: the Maruti Baleno and the Toyota Glanza.
Both of them are available with the optional CNG kit in their respective mid-spec trims: Delta and Zeta (Baleno), and S and G (Glanza).

Common features between the two CNG offerings include a height-adjustable driver seat, push-button start/stop, 7-inch touchscreen unit, and a 4-speaker music system with two tweeters. Their shared safety net includes electronic stability programme (ESP), hill-hold assist, up to six airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchorages and a reversing camera.
This is also the most powerful CNG option out of all CNG models offered with a 1.2-litre engine.
Maruti sells the Baleno CNG from Rs 8.35 lakh to Rs 9.28 lakh whereas the Toyota Glanza CNG retails between Rs 8.60 lakh and Rs 9.63 lakh.

Tata Altroz

Specification	1.2-litre petrol+CNG
Power	73.5PS
Torque	103Nm
Transmission	5-speed MT
Claimed Fuel Efficiency	26.20km/kg

The Tata Altroz was the first model from the carmaker to get its twin-cylinder technology.
Tata offers the CNG kit on five variants of the Altroz under Rs 10 lakh: XE, XM+, XM+ (S), XZ, and XZ+ (S).
Its list of features includes cooled and illuminated glovebox, voice-operated single-pane sunroof, rain-sensing wipers, height-adjustable driver seat, wireless phone charging and 7-inch touchscreen display. The Altroz CNG’s safety kit packs dual front airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchorages, and a reversing camera.
Prices of the Tata Altroz CNG range from Rs 7.55 lakh to Rs 10 lakh.
While it does pack some cool features and CNG-tech, the Altroz CNG’s claimed efficiency is not as high as its rivals.

Also Read: Tata EVs Cross 1 Lakh Sales – Nexon EV, Tiago EV and Tigor EV

Tata Tigor

Specification	1.2-litre petrol+CNG
Power	73.5PS
Torque	95Nm
Transmission	5-speed MT
Claimed Fuel Efficiency	26.49km/kg

The Tata Tigor CNG shares its powertrains with the Tiago hatchback, and was recently updated to the new twin-cylinder technology as well, reclaiming the design’s boot space advantage.
Tata’s sub-4m sedan can be had in four variants with the CNG powertrain: XM, XZ, XZ+ and XZ+ Leatherette Pack.

Its features list comprises 7-inch touchscreen system, push-button start/stop, cooled glovebox, auto AC, rain-sensing wipers, and height-adjustable driver seat. Occupant safety is taken care of by dual airbags, TPMS, corner stability control, and a reversing camera.
The Tigor CNG’s variants cost between Rs 7.80 lakh and Rs 8.95 lakh.
Its closest rivals would be the Maruti Dzire CNG that has a higher claimed mileage, as well as the Hyundai Aura CNG.

Tata Punch

Specification	1.2-litre petrol+CNG
Power	73.5PS
Torque	103Nm
Transmission	5-speed MT
Claimed Fuel Efficiency	26.99km/kg

The Tata Punch is the carmaker’s latest CNG offering. Like the rest of the lineup, it too features twin-cylinder technology that allows for a usable boot with the alternative fuel option.
It is offered in five variants: Pure, Adventure, Adventure Rhythm, Accomplished and Accomplished Dazzle S.

Tata’s CNG-equipped micro SUV gets a 7-inch touchscreen unit, push-button start/stop, rain-sensing wipers, height-adjustable driver seat and voice-enabled single-pane sunroof. Its safety features consist of dual airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchorages, and a reversing camera.
It is priced from Rs 7.10 lakh to Rs 9.68 lakh.

Also Read: Tata Punch CNG vs Hyundai Exter CNG – Claimed Mileage Comparison

Hyundai Exter

Specification	1.2-litre petrol+CNG
Power	69PS
Torque	95Nm
Transmission	5-speed MT
Claimed Fuel Efficiency	27.1km/kg

The Hyundai Exter is the new entry-level SUV model in the Korean carmaker’s Indian lineup, and it has had a CNG powertrain option since its launch.
That said, it is sold with the alternative fuel option in just the two mid-spec variants: S and SX.

Features on offer include a digitised driver’s display, an 8-inch touchscreen, a single-pane sunroof, auto AC, keyless entry, height-adjustable driver seat, and electrically adjustable and foldable ORVMs. Its safety net is made up of six airbags, TPMS, electronic stability control, and ISOFIX child seat anchorages.
Hyundai retails the Exter CNG from Rs 8.24 lakh to Rs 8.97 lakh.

Maruti Fronx

Specification	1.2-litre petrol+CNG
Power	77.5PS
Torque	98.5Nm
Transmission	5-speed MT
Claimed Fuel Efficiency	28.51km/kg

The Maruti Baleno-based crossover SUV, the Fronx, shares its CNG powertrains with the premium hatchback.
It is available with the alternative fuel option only in the lower-spec Sigma and Delta variants.

Maruti has equipped the Fronx CNG with a 7-inch touchscreen display, auto climate control, electrically adjustable and foldable ORVMs, keyless entry, and steering-mounted controls. Safety features on board the Fronx CNG include electronic stability programme (ESP), dual front airbags, and a reversing camera.
It is sold between Rs 8.41 lakh and Rs 9.28 lakh.

Also Read: Could The Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor Be The Rebadged Maruti Fronx?

Maruti Brezza

Specification	1.5-litre petrol+CNG
Power	88PS
Torque	121.5Nm
Transmission	5-speed MT
Claimed Fuel Efficiency	25.51km/kg

The Maruti Brezza is the only sub-4m SUV on this list to get a CNG powertrain option.
While it’s available in four variants with the CNG kit (LXi, VXi, ZXi and ZXi DT), only the base-spec LXi variant fits this budget as it’s priced at Rs 9.24 lakh.

Maruti has provided the Brezza LXi CNG with features like electrically adjustable ORVMs, keyless entry, tilt-adjustable steering wheel, and all power windows. Its safety kit comprises dual front airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchorages, and rear parking sensors.
Buyers willing to splash over Rs 10 lakh for the Brezza CNG can get a 7-inch touchscreen system, single-pane sunroof, cruise control, and push-button start/stop. Higher-spec variants also come with better safety features like a reversing camera, rear defogger, and rear wiper with washer.

While the CNG space continues to grow, these are all the options that you have if you are looking for a premium experience in your CNG car priced under Rs 10 lakh. Which one of these would be your pick and why? Let us know in the comments.

All prices ex-showroom Delhi

Read More on : Maruti Alto K10 on road price

News

Ford Fiesta Remains the Most Popular Used Car in the UK

August 9, 2023 David

The Society of Motor Manufacturers has released new data showing that the Ford Fiesta continues to be the top choice for used car buyers in the UK. Superminis and hatchbacks, including the Fiesta, dominate the second-hand car market, accounting for 31.5% of all used car transactions between April and June. This is likely due to the high prices of new cars and the limited availability of affordable small cars.

During this three-month period, a total of 576,980 superminis were sold, representing a 4.4% increase compared to the same period last year. The Ford Fiesta alone accounted for 75,378 sales, followed by the Vauxhall Corsa with 59,113 sales, and the Mini with 41,817 sales.

Interestingly, the Ford Fiesta remains popular in the second-hand market despite Ford ceasing production of the supermini in July to make way for the new Explorer SUV in Germany.

Furthermore, the report indicates a significant surge in demand for used electric vehicles (EVs). Sales of pre-owned electric cars increased by 81.8% compared to the same period last year, reaching a total of 30,465 units. EVs now hold a 1.7% market share in the used car sector, marking a 0.7% increase from 2022. Plug-in hybrids also saw an 11.4% rise in sales, while hybrids experienced a 29.5% increase.

This rise in demand for pre-owned EVs can be attributed to fleet EVs entering the market as companies and businesses seek to dispose of them before the September numberplate change. Business and fleet registrations account for 79% (24,953) of new EV registrations this year.

Mike Hawes, CEO of SMMT, commented on the findings, stating that it is encouraging to see increased demand for EVs in the used car market. However, meeting the growing appetite for pre-owned EVs hinges on sustaining a healthy new car market and providing accessible, reliable charging infrastructure powered by affordable, clean energy.

The market share for combustion-engined cars slightly decreased from 95.7% to 94.3% compared to the previous year, as the volume of petrol and diesel car production rose by 2.5% and 2.8%, respectively.

Overall, the second-hand car market experienced growth of 4.1% in the second quarter, with 72,583 more transactions compared to the same period in 2022, totaling 1,832,267 sales. This recovery can be attributed to the easing of supply chain disruptions. However, the market is still 9.9% higher in the second quarter of 2019 compared to 2023.

First Drive

Mercedes-AMG A35 2023 UK first drive

July 28, 2023 David

The days of straightforward, powerful hatchbacks are slowly disappearing. It’s unfortunate, but now these cars feel more like novelties than common sightings on the road.

Hot hatches are becoming rare, with many of them reaching their final stage of evolution and becoming quite expensive. Take, for example, the £50,000 Honda Civic Type R.

But there are still a few stalwarts in the segment, such as the Mercedes-AMG A35. This model, along with the rest of the A-Class range, has received updates for 2023, before an electric successor arrives in a couple of years.

The refreshed A35 inherits the muscular bonnet design from the hardcore A45, as well as its grille. Mercedes has even replaced its own badge with the Affalterbach firm’s logo, emphasizing the car’s AMG credentials.

But is it truly an AMG? Some doubts persist. The A35 has always used a modified version of a regular A-Class engine, rather than a bespoke AMG powerplant. This raises questions about authenticity. However, considering the new C63 now has a four-cylinder engine instead of the iconic V8, perhaps authenticity is a subjective matter.

The A35 still looks sharp with its tweaked headlights, new wheel design, and other minor changes. However, the rear wing, which the more powerful A45 can pull off, looks a bit forced on the A35. Thankfully, this aerodynamic feature is only available on the top-end Premium Plus trim, which comes with a hefty price tag of £51,000. Lesser versions of the A35 get a more subtle spoiler reminiscent of the original Ford Focus RS.

Inside the cabin, Mercedes has removed the touchpad, opting for a crisp touchscreen as the sole controller for the infotainment system. The interior, while emphasizing luxury, doesn’t quite match up to the impeccable quality found in some competitors. Nevertheless, it’s a comfortable place to be, and the new steering wheel is much more appealing than its predecessor.

In terms of driving dynamics, five years after its introduction, the A35 remains an intriguing and somewhat inconsistent character. It wants to excel on twisty B-roads, with its firm suspension providing good composure during spirited driving. However, the steering response can feel a bit slow off-center, and the seats lack the necessary support and low positioning to match the car’s sporty intentions. As a result, dialing back the aggression and adopting a smoother driving style suits the A35 better.

Motorsport

Paris To Fight Pollution With Higher Parking Fees For SUVs

July 13, 2023 Prafful Singh

Paris has approved a plan to impose higher parking fees on SUVs in an effort to combat air pollution in the city. SUVs are considered one of the main sources of pollution due to their larger size, weight, and fuel consumption compared to hatchbacks, sedans, and station wagons. The new law, proposed by the EELV ecology party, takes into account the size, weight, and engine of the vehicle when calculating the fees. The measure was approved by Paris councilors last month, with the aim of addressing the increase in SUVs in the city, which has risen by about 60 percent in the last four years. However, SUVs only make up around 15 percent of the city’s total fleet of private vehicles, which stands at approximately 1.15 million.

The proposal is for the city of Paris to implement progressive pricing for paid parking based on the weight and size of vehicles. Frédéric Badina-Serpette, a councilor from the EELV, explained that the goal is to draw attention to the growing issue of “auto-besity,” referring to the increasing weight and size of vehicles on the roads, particularly in Paris.

The new rule is set to take effect from January 1 of next year, when SUV owners will start paying higher parking fees. However, electric vehicles and vehicles belonging to large families are expected to be exempt from these fees. The specific details of the charges and how SUVs will be categorized have not been disclosed yet.

This move by Paris follows a similar decision by the city of Lyon earlier this year. Lyon announced a new parking policy that will be implemented next year, where parking fees in public areas will be determined based on the vehicle’s size, weight, and engine. Electric vehicles will qualify for the lowest parking fees, while combustion-powered vehicles weighing over a certain threshold will face higher fees. Grenoble, another city in France, is also expected to introduce a similar policy in the near future.

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