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Featured

The “Toyota Fronx” Exists, And May Arrive In 2024!


The Toyota-badged Fronx will likely get cosmetic and badging differences inside and out as seen on other shared models between Toyota and Maruti

Maruti Fronx

  • It will be the fifth shared model between Toyota and Maruti.

  • Toyota could benefit from having its own Fronx as its new sub-4m ‘SUV’ offering.

  • Will likely share its engine options with the Maruti Fronx, including the CNG powertrain.

  • It’s also expected to have the Fronx’ features including the 9-inch touchscreen and auto AC.

  • Launch expected in 2024, with prices likely to start from Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom).

By now, you must have noticed the few models being introduced are cross-badged products as part of the Maruti Suzuki-Toyota alliance. Some popular names include the Maruti Grand Vitara-Toyota Hyryder SUVs and the more recent duo of the Toyota Innova Hycross-based Maruti Invicto premium MPV. It has now come to the fore that Toyota will launch its own version of the Maruti Fronx, sometime in 2024.

Why Does Toyota Need A Fronx?

Maruti Fronx side

One of the main reasons for Toyota to offer a rebadged Fronx is that it lacks a sub-4m SUV in its Indian portfolio. In contrast, its alliance partner – Maruti Suzuki – has two models in this category, making its SUV range more accessible with a potential starting price well under the Rs 10 lakh mark.

To recap, Toyota did previously offer its own version of the Maruti Vitara Brezza called the Urban Cruiser, but it was discontinued towards the end of 2022. Currently, the Toyota SUV range directly starts from the Urban Cruiser Hyryder compact SUV with a starting price beyond Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom).

A Familiar Treatment

Maruti Fronx front

The Toyota-badged Fronx will likely get a few cosmetic and badge differences inside and out over Maruti’s crossover SUV as seen on some shared products between the two carmakers like the Baleno-Glanza and the Innova Hycross-Invicto duo. The most prominent visual changes are expected to be the grille, headlights, and interior color scheme.

Also Read: 5 Key Differences Between The Maruti Invicto And Toyota Innova Hycross

Powertrain Details Of The Maruti Fronx

Specification

1.2-litre Petrol

1-litre Turbo-petrol

1.2-litre Petrol+CNG

Power

90PS

100PS

77.5PS

Torque

113Nm

148Nm

98.5Nm

Transmission

5-speed MT, 5-speed AMT

5-speed MT, 6-speed AT

5-speed MT

Claimed Mileage

21.79kmpl, 22.89kmpl

21.5kmpl, 20.1kmpl

28.51km/kg

The Maruti Fronx’ 1-litre turbo-petrol engine comes with mild-hybrid technology. We expect Toyota’s version of the Fronx to come with the same set of powertrains, while the CNG variants might be launched later.

A Shared Features List

Maruti Fronx interior

We expect the Toyota-badged Fronx to come with a near-identical equipment list as the Maruti crossover SUV. This includes a 9-inch touchscreen, a heads-up display, auto climate control, and cruise control. Its safety net is also likely to include up to six airbags, a 360-degree camera, ISOFIX child seat anchorages, and electronic stability program (ESP). It helps that nearly all of these features are also offered on the Baleno-Glanza hatchbacks.

Also Read: Upping The Coolness Quotient Quite Literally: Cars With Dual Zone Climate Control Under Rs 30 Lakh

Price And Rivals

Maruti Fronx rear

We expect Toyota to price its version of the Fronx from Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom). Its rivals will include the Maruti Fronx, Citroen C3 and other sub-4m SUVs such as the Kia Sonet, Tata Nexon, Maruti Brezza, and Hyundai Venue.

Read More on : Maruti FRONX AMT

Featured

Is This Our First Look At The India-spec Citroen C3X Crossover?


The C3X will most likely be based on the C3 Aircross’ platform

Citroen C3X Crossover Spied

  • The Citroen C3X could hit the market in 2024.

  • Globally, the C3X is a sedan crossover that mixes executive styling with increased ground clearance.

  • Its cabin and features will most likely be similar to the C3 Aircross.

  • Could use Citroen’s 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine.

  • Expected to be priced from Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom) onwards.

A heavily camouflaged test mule was recently spied testing in Bengaluru, standing out for its sloped rear end as there are not many coupe-styled mass-market offerings in India. While we cannot identify any brand logos, this test vehicle resembles the design language of Citroen models and appears to be the upcoming Citroen C3X crossover sedan. Here is what the spy shot tells us.

A Familiar Design

The spy video only got a glimpse of the test mule from a side angle, showing part of the front profile and the headlight’s design looks a lot like the ones you see on the Citroen C3 and the C3 Aircross. From the side, the most noticeable giveaway are the flap-type door handles seen on almost all India-spec Citroen models. The rear has the sloping crossover design with exact details hidden by another layer of camouflage. 

Citroen eC4X

We did not get a glimpse of the interior, but the cabin of the C3X will most likely share similarities with the cabin of the Citroen C3 Aircross SUV. 

Image of Citroen eC4X used for reference

Powertrain

Citroen C3 Aircross Engine

The India-spec Citroen C3X could be powered by the same 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine from the C3 and C3 Aircross. In the hatchback, this petrol unit churns out 110PS and 190Nm and is mated only to a 6-speed manual transmission. However, Citroen could increase the performance output and also add an automatic transmission for the C3X to match the C3 Aircross.

Also Read: Citroen eC3 vs Tata Tiago EV: Space & Practicality Comparison

The carmaker could also offer the 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol unit (82PS and 115Nm) paired with a 5-speed manual transmission for a more affordable entry point.

Features & Safety

Citroen C3 Aircross Cabin

The C3X will most likely have the same feature list as the C3 Aircross, which gets a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, 7-inch digital driver’s display, and manual climate control.

Also Read: Citroen C3 Scores 0 Stars In Latin NCAP Crash Tests

In terms of passenger safety, it will be equipped with up to six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control (ESC), tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and rear parking sensors.

Price & Launch

Citroen eC4X

The Citroen C3X crossover sedan will likely arrive in 2024 at an expected ex-showroom starting price of Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom). The C3X will be an alternative to the likes of the Tata Curvv, Hyundai Verna, Honda City, Volkswagen Virtus, and Skoda Slavia.

Read More on : Citroen C3 on road price

Featured

Tata Curvv Makes Its Spy Debut With Heavy Camouflage


The SUV will likely hit the Indian market sometime next year, arriving first in an electric avatar

Tata Curvv Spied

Tata Curvv, an upcoming coupe-SUV from the Indian carmaker, has been spied testing for the first time in the country. The carmaker had already revealed the near-production-ready Curvv at the Auto Expo 2023 and now the testing has begun, as a test mule under heavy camouflage was spotted in a parking lot, surrounded by other test mules.

What The Spy Shots Suggest

Tata Curvv Spied

In the spy shots, the front and side profile of the Curvv can be seen clearly. From the front, we could only notice the position of the headlamp, the silhouette of the DRL strip, and the position of the Tata logo in the middle. The position of the grille seems to be the same as in the unit showcased at the Auto Expo.

Also See: Tata Altroz i-CNG Shows Off Its Boot Space At The Airport Conveyor Belt

The side profile shows a different set of alloys compared to the one we saw at the motor show. From this angle, we can see the length of the car, flush door handles, and the sleek windows. Also, it seems like the carmaker has tried to hide the sloped rear-end styling of the production-spec model, which is the highlight of the Curvv’s design, by adding extra box camouflage.

Powertrain

Tata Curvv Centre Console

The Tata Curvv will be powered by Tata’s 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine that produces 125PS and 225Nm. The transmission options have not been confirmed yet, but one of them could be a dual-clutch transmission (DCT). Other engine options are still unknown.

Tata Curvv EV

It will also have an electric version built on Tata’s Gen 2 platform. The electric version is expected to have a range of up to 500 km and is scheduled to arrive before the model with the internal combustion engine (ICE).

Features & Safety

Tata Curvv Cabin

Based on the 2023 showcase at the Auto Expo, the Tata Curvv is expected to come with a large touchscreen infotainment system with connected car tech, a fully digital driver’s display, automatic climate control with a touch panel, and a panoramic sunroof. It might also feature Tata’s new steering wheel with a central digital display.

Also Read: EVs A Priority But Not At The Cost Of Petrol And Diesel Cars, Says Tata

For safety, the SUV is expected to offer up to six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control (ESC), rear parking sensors, and ISOFIX child seat anchors. It might also come with some advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) features as found in the Tata Harrier.

Price & Rivals

Tata Curvv

The Tata Curvv is expected to be launched early next year, with the electric version starting at around Rs 20 lakh, and the ICE version starting at an estimated price of Rs 10.5 lakh (all prices ex-showroom). Once launched, it will compete against compact SUVs like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, and MG Astor. Meanwhile, the electric version of the Curvv will compete against vehicles like the MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona Electric.

Image Source

Technology

Evolution Of The Internet: How We Got Our Most Impactful Modern Invention

The internet has come a long way and continues to evolve, offering immense possibilities for improving our lives. With the rollout of 5G networks and satellite internet, not only will internet speeds and capacity increase, but the digital divide will also be bridged, providing internet access to everyone worldwide. As infrastructure improves, real innovation can be found in new technologies and apps.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is expected to play a major role in shaping the future of the internet. Already in its early stages, AI has proven useful for enhancing efficiency, decision-making, and automation in various domains. Blockchain technology, which goes beyond cryptocurrencies, has the potential to revolutionize industries like finance by offering secure and decentralized record-keeping and transactions, enabling transparency, efficiency, and security.

On a more personalized level, the Internet of Things (IoT) envisions a world where everyday objects are interconnected, allowing them to collect and share data. IoT applications have already been found in wearables, transportation, and healthcare. Similar to AI, this connectivity will enhance efficiency and automate daily tasks.

It is important to note that the aforementioned ideas are ongoing trends and potential directions for the internet. However, the internet has always been influenced by unforeseen advancements and societal shifts. Our way of living, working, and interacting with technology using the internet could be entirely different in the future. One consistent aspect, though, is the internet’s potential to enhance convenience, create opportunities, and broaden access to information.

FiatUk

Three quarters of UK motorists think Government could do more to help drivers make switch to electric cars

  • Only 15 per cent likely to make switch to electric in next 12 months, FIAT study finds
  • 60 per cent would consider making the switch if the vehicles were cheaper
  • Over 80 per cent of EV drivers say it’s one of the best decisions they’ve made
  • FIAT recently introduced £3,000 FIAT E-Grant for FIAT 500e and 500e Convertible buyers
  • First car manufacturer to launch its own electric car grant in the UK since the Government’s Plug-in Car Grant came to an end 12 months ago

Three quarters of Brits think the Government should be doing more to encourage the switch to electric vehicles (EV) – by offering consumer grants.

A poll of 2,000 adults found 63 per cent consider the retail price to be the biggest downside of EVs.
Just 15 per cent of those who don’t own an EV are ‘likely’ to make the switch within the next 12 months – but 60 per cent would be more inclined to go electric if the vehicles were cheaper.

The study revealed a groundswell of support for the Government’s pledge that all new cars and vans will be required to be ‘fully zero emission at the tailpipe’ by 2035 – with 45 per cent backing the plan.

But just 21 per cent of all adults think the strategy will be successful – 55 per cent don’t think the promise will be fulfilled and 25 per cent are on the fence.

This comes after FIAT launched its own electric car grant, FIAT E-Grant, offering £3,000 towards the all-electric 500e and 500e convertible.

Damien Dally, FIAT UK managing director, said: “EV ownership has increased significantly over the last decade, however, demand is starting to plateau and there is still apprehension among those who’ve yet to go electric.

“As our study shows cost is the biggest stumbling block for consumers, which won’t have been helped by the Government Plug-in Car Grant ending 12 months ago. We are committed to helping people make the switch, that’s why we launched our own grant.’’

The study by FIAT also identified other areas consumers feel require investment from the Government in relation to EVs.

These include charging infrastructure (59 per cent), battery plants in the UK (45 per cent), and tax subsidies (38 per cent).

While 22 per cent believe there should be more money spent on educating as many people as possible on EVs.

Further to this, the research highlighted aspects of electric car ownership which consumers still seem to require further education on.

Such questions include ‘how long does it take to charge an EV?’ (40 per cent), ‘do EV batteries last long?’ (40 per cent), and ‘how much range would an EV really need?’ (30 per cent).

‘Will charging an EV at home raise my electricity bill?’ (27 per cent), ‘does insurance cost more for EVs?’ (26 per cent), and ‘do all EVs use the same charger?’ (23 per cent) are also common queries.

And while 85 per cent of car owners polled are yet to make the switch – possibly with questions like these in the back of their minds – those who’ve gone electric appear to have no regrets.

The study found 81 per cent of those who’ve made the switch consider their decision to be ‘one of the best’ they’ve made.

Dally added: “The research suggests petrol and diesel vehicle users are keen to make the switch to EVs but there is still plenty of uncertainty.

“This underlines why it’s important to incentivise people to make the switch while educating them on the benefits of going electric.”

ENDS

For more information about the FIAT E-Grant visit: here and here.

For more information about driving electric visit: https://www.fiat.co.uk/driving-electric.

Featured

We Won’t See The Unveil Of 5-Door Mahindra Thar On Independence Day 2023

We Won’t See The Unveil Of 5-Door Mahindra Thar On Independence Day 2023


The 5-door Thar will likely be revealed closer to its slated launch in early 2024


Mahindra Thar 5-door




  • The 5-Door Thar unveil is officially not happening on August 15.




  • Instead, we might see a near-production-ready version of the XUV700 EV on the said date.




  • The 5-door Thar will feature a full metal hard top and electric sunroof with the possibility of six airbags.




  • To use the same 2-litre turbo-petrol and 2.2-litre diesel engines with manual and automatic transmissions.




Following numerous reports, the carmaker has officially confirmed that the global unveil of the 5-door Mahindra Thar won’t take place on August 15. Since the SUV is slated to launch in 2024 only, it would have likely been too early to unveil the model.


Mahindra Thar 5-Door


There is still a Mahindra event on August 15 but its exact details are unknown, but we’re expecting to see closer-to-production versions of some of their upcoming electric SUVs. The carmaker plans to launch its fresh line of EVs from 2025, starting with the XUV e8 which is the electric version of the XUV700.


Also Read: Mahindra Confirms No New Models For 2023; Big Launches Coming In 2024!


As per our last spy shot, the 5-door Thar appears to be nearly production-ready. It will have a similar design language to the three-door version inside and out, save for the two more doors. Two important additions will be a full metal hard top and an electric sunroof. Other features expected are a 7-inch touchscreen system, cruise control, auto AC, six airbags, and a rear camera.


Mahindra Thar ground clearance


Also Read: Maruti Jimny Vs Mahindra Thar – Price Check


The more practical Thar will be propelled by the same 2-litre turbo-petrol and 2.2-litre diesel engines as the 3-door Thar, possibly in a higher state of tune. 6-speed manual and automatic transmissions will also be offered with both the engines. Just like the 3-door, we’re expecting the 5-door version with rear-wheel- and four-wheel drivetrains.


The 5-door Thar is likely to retail from around Rs 15 lakh (ex-showroom), serving as a bigger and more premium option to the Maruti Jimny.


Read More on : Thar diesel

Featured

Maruti Invicto Is The New MPV Based On Toyota Innova Hycross


The carmaker’s newest flagship offering is to be unveiled on July 5 and might go on sale on the same day

Maruti Invicto teaser

  • The Invicto will be placed at the top of Maruti’s MPV lineup.

  • It will feature a new design that includes tri-piece LED lighting and a fresh grille.

  • Maruti might provide the interior with a new theme in contrast to the tan color scheme of the Toyota MPV.

  • Premium features will include a panoramic sunroof, 10-inch touchscreen, and ADAS.

  • The same petrol and strong-hybrid petrol engines from the Innova Hycross will be offered.

  • The Invicto is likely to be priced from Rs 19 lakh (ex-showroom).

Earlier rumored to be named Maruti Engage, the Toyota Innova Hycross-based MPV is officially named Invicto, and will become Maruti’s new flagship offering. The new Maruti Invicto MPV will debut on July 5, and the company is expected to launch the vehicle on the same day.

What Will It Look Like?

The Maruti Invicto will mostly resemble Toyota Innova Hycross, while recent undisguised spy shots confirm that it will have some brand-specific changes to distinguish it from the Toyota model. These changes include tri-piece LED headlights and taillights, a new grille design with two chrome strips connecting the headlights, and a fresh set of alloy wheels.

The Invicto’s dashboard layout will be identical to the Toyota model, but it will most probably have a new cabin appearance.

Features Equipped In The Maruti MPV

Toyota Innova Hycross panoramic sunroof

The Invicto is expected to have an identical features list as that of the Toyota Innova Hycross. Premium equipment that comes with the model includes a 10-inch touchscreen, panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control, a digital driver’s display, and a powered tailgate. It’s designed with up to six airbags, vehicle stability control (VSC), front and rear parking sensors, and will be the first Maruti to provide advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) for passenger safety.

Also Read: Comparo: Kia Carens Luxury Plus vs Toyota Innova GX

A Choice Of Two Petrol Powertrains

Toyota Innova Hycross strong-hybrid powertrain

The Maruti Invicto will have the same powertrain options as the Toyota Innova Hycross. The MPV will come with a standard 2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine (174PS/205Nm), mated to a CVT automatic. The model does not feature any manual options. The Toyota MPV has a strong-hybrid powertrain possibility, utilizing a combination of a 186PS 2-litre petrol engine and an electric motor, paired with an e-CVT, to have a claimed efficiency of over 21 kmpl.

What Will Be The Cost?

The Invicto is expected to be priced from Rs 19 lakh (ex-showroom). Its only direct contender will be the Toyota Innova Hycross, and it will be positioned between the Kia Carens and Carnival.