When it comes to going deep underwater, Japan’s JAMSTEC Shinkai 6500 holds the record among “manned submersibles for academic research” on Earth. It can dive to an impressive depth of 6,500 meters. However, it’s worth noting that there are other submersibles capable of diving even deeper, although they may not fall under the category of academic research.
Since its launch in 1991, the JAMSTEC Shinkai 6500 has completed over 1,500 dives. Its main mission is to research seafloor topography, geology, and marine organisms in various oceans, including the Pacific, Atlantic, Indian, and Japanese seas. You can find more information about it on the JAMSTEC website.
Over the years, the Shinkai 6500 has undergone numerous upgrades and refits, with its most significant overhaul occurring in 2012. It has an interior diameter of two meters and can accommodate a maximum of three people, albeit with limited space. Underwater, its manipulators can lift objects weighing up to 100 kg, and its seven searchlights provide approximately 10 meters of visibility in the depths of the ocean. A typical dive in the Shinkai lasts around eight hours, but it can support its crew members for up to 129 hours in case of emergencies.
Vauxhall’s latest concept car will be called the Vauxhall Experimental
Concept will make its global debut at IAA Mobility in Munich from 5-10 September 2023
Vauxhall Experimental will influence future production vehicles and showcase the next stage in Vauxhall’s Bold & Pure design philosophy
Vauxhall has announced that its new concept car will be named the Vauxhall Experimental. The car will be introduced to a worldwide audience at IAA Mobility in Munich from 5-10 September 2023. More details about the concept will be revealed in the coming weeks.
According to James Taylor, Managing Director of Vauxhall, the Vauxhall Experimental will provide a clear vision of the brand’s future design direction and will have an impact on the design of their future production vehicles.
The Vauxhall Experimental represents the next step in the development of Vauxhall’s Bold & Pure design philosophy, which was first showcased with the GT Xperimental in 2018. This design philosophy aims to reflect Vauxhall’s core values of being British, Ingenious, Progressive, and Approachable.
The new concept car further strengthens the brand within Stellantis by emphasizing Vauxhall’s brand pillars, which include a simplified and refined experience, accessible technology, and sustainable innovation (Greenovation).
The name “Experimental” has a history dating back to 1966 with the XVR concept (Xperimental Vauxhall Research) showcased at the Geneva Motor Show. This concept featured innovative design elements such as gull-wing doors, a split windscreen, and unique rear lights that later influenced Vauxhall’s production models.
In 2018, the GT Xperimental concept demonstrated Vauxhall’s design vision and introduced the Vauxhall Vizor and Compass design principles, which have since become iconic features of Vauxhall’s passenger cars.
The Volkswagen brand is planning a major product offensive in South America, aiming to grow by 40% in Brazil, the region’s largest market, by 2027. As part of this plan, the company will launch 15 new electric and flex-fuel vehicle models by 2025, with hybrid vehicles to follow in the medium term. The first fully electric models, the Volkswagen ID.4 and ID. Buzz, will be brought to Brazil by the end of 2023. The South American automotive market is expected to grow by 11% annually until 2030, making it one of the fastest-growing markets globally. This investment aligns with Volkswagen’s strategy to expand rapidly in growth markets and promote sustainable mobility. Volkswagen is also celebrating its 70th anniversary in Brazil.
The CEO of Volkswagen Brand, Thomas Schäfer, stated that South America is strategically important, and the local team has achieved a turnaround in recent years, improving profitability and competitiveness. He emphasized the need to work on cost positions and implement the product offensive, which includes a €1 billion investment in South America by 2026. The South America region returned to profitability in 2021 and made a significant contribution to earnings in 2022. Alexander Seitz, Executive Chairman of Volkswagen Group South America, highlighted the company’s commitment to bringing attractive vehicles to customers in Brazil and South America through the product offensive, which supports the transformation to zero-carbon and fully networked mobility.
In addition to investing in the development of ethanol-based combustion engines and new business models, Volkswagen aims to expand its car subscription service in Brazil, with over 3,000 subscriptions expected in 2023 – a 150% increase from the previous year. The company also plans to offer its first fully electric vehicles, the ID.4 and ID. Buzz, as subscriptions in Brazil in 2023 to facilitate the transformation to sustainable mobility. Volkswagen expects that the transition to pure electric drives in Brazil will be less dynamic than in Europe, with pure battery electric vehicles estimated to account for around 4% of the overall market in 2033. However, Volkswagen aims to outpace market growth in the electric vehicle segment.
Volkswagen will remain open to alternative drives and technology until the market is fully electrified. All new models produced in the South America region will continue to be able to run on 100% biofuel, making a significant contribution to the sustainability strategy and Volkswagen South America’s Way to Zero. The engines, developed in Europe, will be adapted and further developed in Volkswagen Brazil’s newly opened development center. The focus of Volkswagen’s product offensive includes the A0 and A segments, as well as CUVs/SUVs, which are the fastest-growing market segment worldwide. The A0 segment already accounts for nearly 40% of the South American market and is expected to continue growing disproportionately to the market.
Ethanol, derived from sugar cane, is a sustainable fuel that reduces greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% compared to petrol. Ethanol production in Brazil uses less than 0.8% of the country’s land, with the majority of cane sugar harvested in south-central Brazil and a small portion in the North-East. The biofuel contributes to the significant reduction of CO2 in this region.
Volkswagen’s presence in Brazil spans 70 years, with the production plant in São Paulo being the company’s first plant outside Germany. Over the years, Volkswagen has become Brazil’s largest automobile manufacturer, producing a total of 25 million vehicles, four million of which were exported. The company operates four plants in Brazil and sells its models, including the Polo, Virtus, Nivus, Taos, and T-Cross, through approximately 500 dealerships.
This month, you can now decide between the new French hatchback or a Volkswagen ID 3. The new French hatchback comes with a front-mounted motor that provides 156bhp, which is 22bhp more than the Peugeot e-208 supermini and e-2008 crossover. It also has a power of 192lb ft. Power comes from a 51kWh (usable) battery, which is slightly larger than the ones used by smaller EVs from Peugeot parent Stellantis. The e-308 will join the 308 lineup, which includes petrol and diesel options as well as plug-in hybrids.
Peugeot e-2008
The e-2008 starts at £36,350 for the basic Active trim. The Allure and GT models, which are the favorite choices for most buyers, come in at £38,350 and £40,550 respectively. The facelift introduces a wider and more aggressive new Peugeot badge, as well as updated lights inspired by the Peugeot 508. It also features a larger 54kWh battery and a more powerful electric motor, providing an 18% boost in output compared to the previous e-2008, with 153bhp.
In a few cities, the strong-hybrid MPV can make you wait over a year before delivery
The Toyota Innova Hycross entered the Indian market last year as a more premium MPV than the Innova Crysta. Both MPVs have different underpinnings, their own sets of powertrains on offer, and distinct designs. While the diesel-only Crysta remains popular and attracts a somewhat high waiting period, the better-equipped Hycross with its petrol and hybrid powertrains is commanding delivery times of over a year this July.
For reference, the Toyota Innova Hycross is priced from Rs 18.55 lakh to Rs 29.99 lakh, while the Innova Crysta’s price ranges between Rs 19.99 lakh and Rs 25.43 lakh (both ex-showroom, Delhi).
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.
The current generation of the iconic Ford Mustang is coming to an end soon to make way for the 2024 models in a couple of months. While the next-gen pony car doesn’t seem much different than the current-gen, it’s unlikely there will not be as many options available to consumers. With the 2023 model year, there are an astounding 14 different variants to fill every niche from economically cool to awe-inspiring performance.
After decades of flirting with unusual body styles for the Mustang, Ford righted the ship in 2005 by getting back to the classic fastbacks of the originals. When they went from the fifth to the sixth generation in 2015, they didn’t mess with the formula and simply offered an updated, streamlined body style. The 2024 model year will mark the beginning of the seventh generation Mustang, but Ford isn’t going crazy with a radical new design, keeping it pretty close to what has been some very successful generations.
Unlike Chevrolet and Dodge who are abandoning the ICE muscle car business, Ford will still put gas-powered engines in Mustangs. They can do this in the age of EVs because they already have the all-electric Mustang Mach-E. While purists will claim the Mach-E isn’t a real Mustang, it’s badged as such, so it counts. With the Mach-E models, Ford has 14 different models to choose from and that’s a big win for consumers and Mustang fans.
Usually, a base model means a stripped-down version with no power or features, but the Mustang EcoBoost is packed with goodies. The most affordable pony car in the line-up has the reality-defying EcoBoost engine, which makes it seem like a mid-to-upper trim level. It comes standard with features that don’t exactly scream that it’s the entry-level Mustang.
Specs
Engine
Turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder
Engine Output
310 horsepower, 350 pound-feet of torque
Transmission
Six-speed manual
0-60
4.9 seconds
MRSP
$29,145
With a leather wrapped steering wheel and parking brake handle, the interior has a touch of luxury. The Ford Sync infotainment system is paired with a six-speaker sound system and a rearview camera. The exterior looks just as great as any other Mustang in the stable, so this is an incredible value.
13Mustang EcoBoost Premium
MSRP: $34,170
Ford
Peopel chilling with the 2023 Mustang EcoBoost Premium
The next step up is the Mustang EcoBoost Premium, which has the same horsepower as the EcoBoost but offers some serious luxury upgrades. With leather seats, an upgraded Sync 3 infotainment system, and chrome accents throughout, this is a much slicker ride.
Specs
Engine
Turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder
Engine Output
310 horsepower, 350 pound-feet of torque
Transmission
Six-speed manual
0-60
4.9 seconds
MRSP
$34,170
The premium trim comes with a Blade decklid spoiler and 18-inch aluminum wheels that give it some extra pop in the appearance department. The optional stripe package seems like a no-brainer because if you’re going to come up from the base, why not spend a few more bucks to make it really cool-looking?
Front view of blue 2023 Mustang EcoBoost High Performance Pack
The four-cylinder turbocharged EcoBoost engine is already impressive, but for around $6,000 more than the base model, it can be truly amazing. The Mustang EcoBoost High Performance Pack is the top trim for the 2023 EBs that squeezes some extra horsepower out and drops a few decimals from the 0-60 time.
Specs
Engine
Turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder
Engine Output
330 horsepower, 350 pound-feet of torque
Transmission
Six-speed manual
0-60
4.5 seconds
MRSP
$35,015
With all the standard equipment of the Premium, the High-Performance Pack is exactly what its name suggests: a speed upgrade. This package is available for both the coupe and convertible models. An additional EcoBoost Handling Pack, with bigger wheels, brakes, and improved suspension, is available only for the coupe.
11Mustang GT
MSRP: $39,720
Ford
Top view of red 2023 Ford Mustang GT
As great as the EcoBoost is, Mustangs were made to have V-8s under the hood and that’s where the 2023 GT comes in. Equipped with a proper muscle car engine, the Mustang GT is the lowest trim with an eight-cylinder and is only available in the fastback couple body style.
Specs
Engine
5.0-liter V-8
Engine Output
450 horsepower, 420 pound-feet of torque
Transmission
Six-speed manual
0-60
4.4 seconds
MRSP
$39,720
Car and Driver recommends the GT as the top of the ’23’s because, “The Mustang is best enjoyed with its sonorous, 450-horsepower 5.0-liter V-8” and it strikes the perfect balance between performance and affordability. Then again, there are tons tempting of upgrade packages that could push it into the upper trim levels.
10Mustang GT Premium
MSRP: $44,740
Ford
3/4 front view Ford Mustang GT Premium
Much like how the EcoBoost Premium is an upgrade from the EcoBoost, the GT Premium is a more luxurious version of the GT. Packed with all the same interior and exterior upgrades, the GT Premium is for people who want a little more style with their speed.
Specs
Engine
5.0-liter V-8
Engine Output
450 horsepower, 420 pound-feet of torque
Transmission
Six-speed manual
0-60
4.4 seconds
MRSP
$44,740
The real importance of the Premium GT is that it’s the first trim available as a convertible that has a V-8. The power and speed of the Premium GT with a ragtop guarantee a bad hair day while at the same time a great driving day.
9Mustang GT Performance Pack
MSRP: $46,420
Ford
3/4 front view of 2023 Ford Mustang GT Performance Pack convertible
At this point, the Ford pattern is clear: the base model offers standard thrills, the Premium adds luxury, and the Performance Pack loads up on the performance end. The Mustang GT Performance Pack is the top GT trim but doesn’t actually add anything to the 450-horsepower engine.
Specs
Engine
5.0-liter V-8
Engine Output
450 horsepower, 420 pound-feet of torque
Transmission
Six-speed manual
0-60
4.4 seconds
MRSP
$46,420
The GT Performance Pack is more about beefier Brembo brakes, a stiffer suspension, bigger wheels, and better tires. While this doesn’t technically make the Mustang more powerful on a dyno tester, in the real world, it helps keep the car stuck to the road, which is a speed-boost for less skilled drivers.
8Mustang Mach 1
MSRP: $57,945
Ford
2023 Ford Mustang Mach 1 on the track
The Mach 1 was Ford’s performance package option until they killed it in 1978. It made a brief return in the early 2000s and then reemerged in 2021, hopefully for good. The 2023 Mach 1 is basically the GT Performance Pack minus the Premium luxury, plus more horsepower.
Specs
Engine
5.0-liter V-8
Engine Output
470 horsepower, 420 pound-feet of torque
Transmission
Six-speed manual
0-60
4.1 seconds
MRSP
$57,945
All that Mustang math adds up to a no-frills street monster that actually has some frills because the base models are decently equipped. Ford dropped a modified version of their signature 5.0-liter V-8 in the Mach 1 that puts out an extra 20 horsepower and makes for one seriously fast production model.
Can anyone guess the difference between a Mach 1 and a Mach 1 Premium? Everyone who said it’s a more luxurious version gets a gold star, or actually a Blue Oval would be more appropriate here. In reality, the Mach 1 Premium is a bigger upgrade than the EcoBoost Premium or GT Premium.
Specs
Engine
5.0-liter V-8
Engine Output
470 horsepower, 420 pound-feet of torque
Transmission
Six-speed manual
0-60
4.1 seconds
MRSP
$59,760
In addition to everything that comes with a normal Premium upgrade, the Mach 1 Premium gets cooler interior accents, a way better sound system, plus heated seats. At this point in the ascending ladder of 2023 Mustang trims, budget is becoming less of an issue so splurging on all the available extras is the way to go.
6Mustang Shelby GT500
MSRP: $80,795
Ford
Front and side view of a 2022 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500
In addition to a bigger engine and all the features of the Premium and Performance packs, the GT500 comes with a rear wing spoiler and custom splitters to cut through the wind and stay glued to the track. Upon its initial release, MotorTrend called it a “Game changer” and, “the best all-around sports car available.”
5Mustang Mach-E Select
MSRP: $44,795
Ford
Guy next to 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E Select
A Mustang Mach-E doesn’t look like a Mustang or a Mach-anything, but Ford branded its all-electric crossover with these names, so like it or not, it is officially part of the fabled pony car’s history. Road & Track reported that Ford slapped the Mustang nameplate on this EV so it would stand out in the crowded electric vehicle market.
Specs
Power
70kWh single motor
Motor Output
266 horsepower, 317 pound-feet of torque
Range
247 miles
0-60
6.3 seconds
MRSP
$44,795
The Mustang Mach-E Select is the entry-level version of this new kind of Mustang. With EVs it’s all about power, battery size, and range, so since this is the base model, it’s obviously the slowest, shortest driving of the batch, but it’s still more than enough for most daily driving duties.
4Mustang Mach-E Premium
MSRP: $48,795
Ford
Rear view of white 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E Premium
Car & Driver says, “We think the Premium model is the Mach-E to get.” The reason is simple, the Mustang Mach-E Premium strikes the perfect balance between power, range, luxury, and most importantly: price. Ford always has that one sweet ride buried in their vast array of trim levels and this is it for the pony EV.
Specs
Power
72kWh single motor
Motor Output
266 horsepower, 317 pound-feet of torque
Range
250 miles
0-60
6.3 seconds
MRSP
$48,795
While quicker and longer lasting than the Select, it also has a better fast-charging system, which is something anyone buying an EV should consider as it can be soul-crushing, waiting to “fill up” an all-electric if you’re in a hurry. Additionally, the Premium has 19-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, a power lift gate, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system.
3Mustang Mach-E California Route 1
MSRP: $58,795
Ford
3/4 front view of white 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E California Route 1
Stepping up from the Premium is the Mach-E California Route 1, which has a bigger battery and more range. Available in either a single-motor front-wheel drive or dual-motor all-wheel drive configurations, it can actually go a little further than the Premium, but its reported 312 miles is nowhere near enough to tackle the 655 miles of California’s historic Route 1.
Specs
Power
91kWh dual motor
Motor Output
346 horsepower, 428 pound-feet of torque
Range
312 miles
0-60
4.8 seconds
MRSP
$58,795
The interior is sufficiently equipped with tech goodies like a 15.5 inch touchscreen infotainment system, a wireless charging pad, and USB ports. It’s also quite comfy with a heated steering wheel, memory driver’s seat, and carpeted floor mats. While it’s the top trim of the non-GT models, it doesn’t offer much more than the Premium.
While the standard Mach-Es are more than capable, the GTs get into the Tesla Model X Plaid levels of performance. The Mustang Mach-E GT comes standard with dual motor all-wheel drive and an extended-range battery pack, which adds up to a straight-line EV terror, capable of smoking all gas-powered Mustangs except the GT500.
Specs
Power
91kWh dual motor
Motor Output
480 horsepower, 600 pound-feet of torque
Range
270 miles
0-60
3.8 seconds
MRSP
$61,795
Since this EV looks suspiciously similar to the Ford Escape plug-in hybrid, the Mustang Mach-E GT may be the ultimate sleeper ride, because no one will be able to guess how freakishly fast this thing is until they get their doors blown off. Yes, it is a little pricey, but no more expensive than other EVs with similar capabilities.
Front view of blue 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT Performance Edition
Just when you think you’ve hit the top of the trims, Ford always has another loaded up with a bit more luxury and performance. The Mustang Mach-E GT Performance Edition is the head of the class in both power and price. This package ups the torque from the standard GT, which in the case of EVs is instant and awesome.
Specs
Power
91kWh dual motor
Motor Output
480 horsepower, 634 pound-feet of torque
Range
270 miles
0-60
3.5 seconds
MRSP
$66,795
The Performance Edition adds the MagnaRide magnetic damping system for an adjustable ride stiffness experience. It also has 20-inch wheels and racing seats for looking cool and staying in place, respectively. As is the case with any Ford upper trim levels, when you reach a certain point, why not just get it all? The Mustang Mach-E GT Performance Edition is the EV equivalent of the ICE Mustang Shelby GT500: it’s the best of the best.
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
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!
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
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.
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
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
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
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.
The new Mazda 2 may not impress in terms of cabin space compared to its wider and more practical rivals. However, what catches the eye is its stylish interior design that is imaginative and attention to detail. The dashboard stands out with its space-conscious architecture and well-integrated features such as unbroken horizontal lines, corralled switchgear, and periscoped instrument cluster.
While the input device for the multimedia system could be positioned more ideally for usability, the ergonomic complaints are minimal. The seating position is slightly higher than desired, but within the norm for the segment. The front cabin feels spacious with 20mm of additional elbow room, even with two adults on board. The rear space, however, is not the most generous for taller passengers compared to cars like the Fiat 500 or Seat Ibiza.
The boot has a decent capacity of 280 liters, although its aperture width could be improved.
Multimedia system
The infotainment touchscreen is neatly placed on the dashboard, and the good news is that you won’t have to touch it while driving. Mazda has provided a rotary input device and physical shortcut buttons for easy control. The touchscreen is deactivated when the car is in motion, which some testers found convenient, while others found it cumbersome to navigate Apple CarPlay using the rotary controller.
Although the Mazda 2 was launched before the existence of CarPlay and Android Auto, both have been added later on. CarPlay works wirelessly, while Android Auto requires a cable. The default interface provided by Mazda may feel a bit dated in 2023, but it is still user-friendly.
The Tesla Powerwall offers attractive pricing, warranties, and maintenance costs to make it appealing to customers seeking reliable and efficient energy storage solutions. The cost of installing a Tesla Powerwall varies depending on factors like the number of Powerwalls needed, installation complexity, and regional considerations.
The estimated price range for a Powerwall is between $9,200 and $14,200 (location dependent), excluding any incentives. While the upfront cost may seem high, customers can justify the expense by considering the long-term benefits of backup power and potential cost savings through solar generation.
Buyers also get an impressive warranty, including a 10-year battery lifetime, free replacements and repairs, an unlimited cycle warranty, and 24/7 support. The Tesla Powerwall warranty ensures that their investment is protected and provides reassurance regarding the longevity of the Powerwall.
The Powerwall has minimal ongoing maintenance expenses as well, reducing long-term ownership costs. The low maintenance requirements make the Powerwall a convenient and hassle-free solution for homeowners and businesses alike. If the price is still too steep, there are Tesla Powerwall alternatives worth considering as well.
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