Porsche Boxster, Cayman to get hybrid, EV variants

Porsche is developing a fully electric 718 Boxster and 718 Cayman that will be launched by 2022, and the company is considering offering them alongside mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions of the current cars.

The next-generation versions of the two-door roadster and coupé sportscars have for some time been thought to be among a range of future pure-electric models set to be spearheaded by the upcoming four-door Taycan and the Taycan Sport Turismo. However, Porsche chairman Oliver Blume has indicated that hybrid powertrains are also being considered.

“We have prototypes of the 718 running in electric now, and a hybrid prototype is being built,” he said. “If you look to the next generation of those cars it is possible, although it is not yet clear whether it would be plug-in hybrid or hybrid.”

The decision to pursue both hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions of the 718 Boxster and Cayman alongside the forthcoming electric models is understood to have been taken after an internal engineering study revealed that lithium-ion battery technology is not yet sufficiently advanced to enable pure-electric versions to offer more than 300km of range without significant changes to the existing mid-engine platform architecture.

Porsche is now pursuing a plan that could see pure-electric Boxster and Cayman variants using the company’s new PPE architecture, offered alongside updated versions of today’s models featuring hybrid and plug-in hybrid drivetrains.

The plan would mirror the move taken by Porsche with the next-generation Macan, which will continue to be produced on its existing MLB platform with new hybrid drivetrains, while offering the choice of a pure-electric variant based on the PPE architecture.

Speaking about Porsche’s plan for the second-generation Macan, Blume said: “For at least two to three years, we will have both. At that point, we can decide whether to upgrade the combustion engines to the new Euro-VII standard or go full electric. The pace that countries are changing is different – China wants electric now, Russia is in less of a hurry, for instance.”

The new mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid drivetrains intended for the 718 models are developments of those already engineered for the larger 911, according to sources. The electrification measures are among changes designed to allow Porsche’s existing combustion engines to meet the upcoming Euro-VII emissions standards.

However, while the hybrid systems scheduled to appear on the facelifted version of the eighth-generation 911 early next decade are based around Porsche’s horizontally opposed six-cylinder petrol engine, those being earmarked for the new 718 Boxster and Cayman are set to use the smaller-capacity flat-four engine introduced by Porsche in 2016.

Both units feature a 48V electrical system and disc-shaped electric motor integrated into a modified version of the existing Boxster’s and Cayman’s 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

The mild-hybrid system has been conceived to provide an electric boost to the petrol engine for added performance potential and increased efficiency, albeit without the ability to provide an electric-only driving mode. The plug-in hybrid also provides electric boosting but has been built around a battery of sufficient capacity to offer extended pure-electric running.

Porsche’s plan to give the 718 Boxster and its fixed-roof Cayman sibling electric power originated from the 2011 Boxster E project. That machine featured a 122.6hp electric motor with a range of 170km, although EV technology has moved on substantially since then.

More recently, in 2017, Porsche developed the one-off Cayman e-volution. It had a claimed 0-100kph acceleration time of 3.3sec, a 193kph top speed and a range of 193km on a 38kWh lithium-ion battery.

Despite the impressive performance credentials of the Cayman e-volution, concerns about its limited range led Porsche to pursue the development of solid-state batteries – both for future pure-electric versions of the 718 Boxster and Cayman as well as for an electric hypercar that is expected to appear in 2025 as a spiritual successor to the 918 Spyder.

Porsche insiders, citing studies carried out by parent company Volkswagen, said that they anticipate a rapid evolution of lithium-ion cells for an improved energy-to-weight ratio in the next generation of batteries. Estimates are that cell energy density, both by volume and weight, will increase by 25 percent, from 2019 to 2025.

By 2025, they also expect the adoption of solid-state batteries to bring a further increase of 25 percent. This would allow Porsche to pack more energy in the same space with no additional weight penalty.

A £76 million investment by Volkswagen in QuantumScape has given Porsche access to the latest developments in solid-state battery technology.

Click here for Porsche India models, prices, reviews, videos, images and more

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Analysis: Passenger vehicles sales in FY2019

Fiscal year 2019 ended on a sombre note for automakers in India, as sales of passenger vehicles (PVs) — cars, utility vehicles (UVs) and vans - grew at their slowest pace in five years. A potential increase in ownership costs due to high fuel prices, stiff interest rates and increased insurance costs impacted demand for cars and SUVs.

According to industry body Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), total PV sales rose 2.70 percent to 33,77,436 units in the year ended March 2019. It was the most sluggish performance since FY2014 when sales had seen a decline of 6 percent. What added to the slowdown was tepid festive season sales. In fact, the weak demand forced SIAM to revise its PV growth outlook downwards to 9 percent from up to 11 percent, but the actual growth was even lower than that.

While India Auto Inc drove past the 25-million-vehicle mark for the first time, selling 26,267,783 units across all vehicle types, it registered one of the worst performances in the past decade with a growth of 5.15 percent year-on-year (YoY).

FY2019 had got off to a good start as PV volumes rose 20 percent in the first three months, but sales soon started to taper off. “FY2019 numbers slumped due to low consumer sentiment and a dip in rural market demand. It was a tale of two halves with the first half being very good and the second not so much despite many new vehicle launches during the year,” said Rajan Wadhera, president of SIAM.

From growth of 6.9 percent in the first half (April-September 2018), volumes dipped 1 percent in the second half (October 2018-March 2019).

Demand for UVs, including SUVs, faltered after two consecutive years of upbeat growth – 941,461 units, up a mere 2.08 percent, which pales in comparison to the 21 percent growth in FY2018 and 30 percent in FY2017. This could create a challenging environment for automakers, who are readying a plethora of SUVs for launch in the short term. Most of the action will unfold in the midsize SUV market, which will see over 12 models coming in three years. What’s more, carmakers such as Kia, MG and Citroën have chosen an SUV to be their first product for India. More recently, Mahindra and Ford announced plans to jointly develop a midsize SUV, but more on that later.

Passenger cars, meanwhile, posted growth of 2.05 percent to 22,18,549 units. Vans grew at a surprisingly faster clip to 2,17,426 units, up 13.10 percent, albeit on a lower year-ago base.

Maruti Suzuki

Despite a challenging environment, market leader Maruti Suzuki registered growth of 5.3 percent YoY to 17,29,826 units. Although growth was lower than the near-14 percent rise in FY2018, its market share further expanded from 50 percent in FY2018 to 51.22 percent. However, the impact of the slowdown was evident in March when sales declined 1.5 percent to 1,45,031 units.

FY2019 saw two big-ticket launches from Maruti – the new WagonR and the new Ertiga – apart from other model updates. The WagonR now offers more space, is better equipped and gets a more powerful engine. The Ertiga is not only bigger and well equipped but it also has a feel-good factor to it. In fact, it even drove home with the ‘Car of the Year’ accolade at the Autocar Awards 2019.

Maruti’s volumes were led by its compact segment cars such as the Ignis, Celerio, Swift, Baleno, Dzire and the new WagonR that together sold 8,71,864 units, up 16.5 percent YoY. However, demand for the Ignis (36,144 units, down 24 percent) was subdued. It was Maruti’s only hatchback that didn’t cross six-digit figures in sales. 

On the UV front, the quartet of the Ertiga, Vitara Brezza, S-cross and the Gypsy sold 264,197 units, up 4.1 percent with the Brezza (157,880 units, up 6.34 percent) driving the numbers.

With 46,169 units, the Ciaz remained the bestselling midsize sedan for a third year straight with a market share of 30 percent, even though sales were down 22 percent from FY2018.

The year saw Japanese carmakers Suzuki and Toyota expand the scope of their cooperation. Maruti Suzuki firmed up plans to supply the Ciaz midsize sedan and Ertiga MPV to Toyota while the latter confirmed that its version of the Brezza will go into production at the Toyota plant in Karnataka from 2022.

Hyundai

For India’s second largest carmaker by volume, sales were only marginally higher and it very nearly managed to hold on to its market share of 16 percent. In FY2019, Hyundai sold 5,45,243 units, up 1.7 percent and the Korean carmaker’s highest-ever sales in a fiscal.

Hyundai launched its second-gen hatchback, the Santro, in October 2018. With a bold design, spacious interiors and plenty of equipment, the Santro brought the ‘wow’ factor back to the entry-level hatchback segment. The Eon was phased out after the launch of the new Santro, which is now the entry-level model in the range.

The Creta was the best performing model as sales grew 16 percent to 1,24,300 units. The introduction of the facelift towards the start of the fiscal boosted its popularity significantly. A majority of Hyundai’s volumes came from the i20, which sold 1,40,225 units, up 3 percent. The Verna too remained a strong performer. However, the Grand i10 (-17 percent), Xcent (-8 percent), Eon (-56 percent), Elantra (-43 percent) and Tucson (-13 percent) saw sales slide.

FY2020 looks promising for the Korean carmaker as it has just broken into the fast-growing compact SUV segment in India. The recently revealed all-new Venue will take the challenge to the Brezza, Nexon, Ecosport and the Mahindra XUV300. Hyundai has also lined up the Kona EV and the new-gen Grand i10 for launch this year.

Mahindra

UV major Mahindra & Mahindra’s sales rose by 2.21 percent to 2,54,351 units, but the grim market situation impacted growth (FY2018: + 5.4 percent). With the exception of the XUV500 and the Verito, all other Mahindra’s models saw a dip in sales.

In FY2019, M&M launched three new products – Marazzo, Alturas G4 and the XUV300 – but its market share remained unchanged at 7.5 percent. The company has a lot riding on the XUV300 and it will be banking on the Brezza-fighter to give its sales a fillip in FY2020. While it is still early, initial market response indicates M&M could have a potential game-changer on its hands, as the XUV300 garnered over 13,000 bookings in just a month since its launch in mid-February 2019.

Tata Motors

Tata Motors notched the highest sales growth among all PV makers as volumes jumped 10.14 percent to 231,512 units in FY2019. While Tata was unable to drive ahead of M&M for the third spot, it did reduce the gap.

The Tiago was Tata’s bestseller with sales of 92,369 units, up 17 percent YoY, followed by the Nexon SUV (55,008 units, up 100 percent). The Tiago added another feather to its cap by crossing the 2,00,000 unit sales mark in February 2019.

In December 2018, in a testament to its much-improved new-generation models, the Nexon secured a five-star rating in Global NCAP crash tests, becoming the first made-in-India, sold-in-India model to achieve full five stars. Tata’s UV sales grew by a handsome 52 percent, albeit on a low base, to 78,756 units on the back of upbeat demand for the Nexon. In fact, Tata Motors drove past Ford and Honda to secure the fifth spot among India’s Top UV makers.

Now Tata has lined up the all-new Altroz, which will challenge segment bestsellers, the Baleno and the i20, when it goes on sale in the second half of 2019. The Altroz is the first in a series of new models to be built on Tata’s all-new ALFA platform. Its launch will be followed by the seven-seat Harrier, which will take on the XUV500.

Honda

Along with Maruti, Toyota and Tata, Honda was the only other automaker which managed to gain market share in FY2019. With sales of 1,83,787 units, up 8.10 percent YoY, the Japanese carmaker posted a second consecutive year of growth and market share improved to 5.44 percent from 5.17 percent.

The growth driver was the new Amaze which sold 85,040 units, accounting for 46 percent of overall sales. The new Amaze is a huge step up over the first-gen model, not just in terms of size but also comfort and premiumness. While the petrol engine is smooth, the diesel truly impressed us.

Honda also launched the new fifth-gen CR-V and the all-new Civic. The former gives Honda an opportunity to appeal to a larger section of buyers as it is the first CR-V to feature a third row of seats and also the first to get a diesel in India. It will be interesting to see how the 10th-gen Civic performs against key rival Skoda Octavia (2,720 units, down 2 percent) this year.

But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. Its key volume driver, the City saw volumes decline 27 percent to 41,072 units, and WR-V sales fell 31 percent to 33,010 units. The Jazz witnessed the steepest drop of 45 percent to 15,091 units.

Toyota

Toyota posted growth of 7 percent to 1,50,525 units in FY2019. Growth came on the back of continued demand for the Innova Crysta (77,924 units, up 5.11 percent) and the Etios Liva (15,063 units, up 8.70 percent). The carmaker’s market share improved slightly to 4.46 percent from 4.28 percent.

Toyota launched the all-new Yaris sedan, which squarely rivals the Honda City, but the model hasn’t performed as per the carmaker’s expectations. It sold 11,831 units since its launch in May 2018, at a monthly average of 1,075 units.

Sales of the Fortuner (21,141 units, down 13.23 percent) and the Etios (21,216 units, down 7 percent) were impacted by tepid demand. The Fortuner, however, continued to enjoy a significant lead over key rival Ford Endeavour (5,829 units, down 19 percent).

Ford

Ford India recovered from FY2018’s decline in volumes as it ended FY2019 on a positive note with sales of 92,937 units, up by a modest 2.51 percent. It kicked off the year with the launch of the Freestyle cross-hatch which went home to 22,875 buyers at a monthly average of 1,900 units.

The launch of the Freestyle was followed by a host of model facelifts such as the Aspire facelift in October, Endeavour facelift in February 2019 and Figo facelift in March 2019.

It even reintroduced the popular 1.0-litre, three-cylinder EcoBoost turbo-petrol in the EcoSport to increase its popularity.However, sales of the compact SUV ended the year in red with volumes totaling 46,265 units, down 7.53 percent amid stiff competition from the Brezza and the Nexon.

The carmaker has just announced that it will co-develop its upcoming C-segment SUV with Mahindra, for which the latter will provide the platform (same as the next-gen XUV500) and powertrain (all-new 2.0-litre diesel).

Renault

Renault India had yet another harsh year as volumes declined further to 79,654 units in FY2019 from 102,219 units sold in FY2018. Sales of its volume grosser, the Kwid fell 21.90 percent to 64,913 units. The carmaker has, however, updated the Kwid in an effort to revive customer interest by adding features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a reverse camera and fast charging function with the USB charger.

Meanwhile, Duster sales declined 27 percent to 10,319 units and the Captur remained a slow seller.

With a new CEO and MD, Venkatram Mamillapalle, at the helm, Renault aims to expand its model range in an effort to take volumes to 2,00,000 units by 2022 and grow market share. The newly christened seven-seater Triber is expected to be launched around July 2019, an will be followed by a compact sedan and a compact SUV.

OUTLOOK

The slowing demand for cars and SUVs is not expected to reverse completely this year. SIAM has maintained a cautious growth outlook for FY2020 and estimates PV sales to grow by just
3-5 percent. The apex industry body says the tepid forecast is a result of observing factors such as
the tendency of PV sales to be subdued in election years (growth was muted in FY2010 and FY2014), the increasing consumer shift to shared mobility and a high base effect.

For automakers, the fight to gain market share is expected to intensify with new entrants in the PV arena. The shift to cleaner BS-VI norms from April 2020 is expected to make PVs dearer, especially diesel models which, SIAM says, could lead to ‘pre-buying’ that will drive sales. But, to what extent and will that affect sales in the next fiscal? Clearly, expect FY2020 to keep India Auto Inc on its toes.

from Autocar India http://bit.ly/2GUicI2
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EV sales in India cross 7.5 lakh mark in FY2019

For India Auto Inc, FY2019 may have been a dampener for overall internal combustion-engined vehicle sales, given that they recorded single-digit growth. In comparison, albeit on a much lower base, the country’s nascent electric vehicle (EV) industry notched handsome numbers, but the green vehicle segment may not have reason to celebrate in the future. Here’s why.

In FY2019, total EV sales in India crossed the 7,50,000-units mark and reached a total of 7,59,600 units (see sales table below). This includes electric two-wheelers (1,26,000), electric three-wheelers (6,30,000) and electric passenger vehicles (3,600), which translates into electric two-wheelers witnessing triple-digit growth (130  percent) year-on-year (YoY). Interestingly, while the FY2019 statistics reveal a significant year-on-year jump, the ground reality – after the government's announcement of the much-awaited FAME II (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles) scheme in early April –looks to be quite shocking.

SMEV calls for tweaking of FAME II policy

Speaking to our sister publication, Autocar Professional, Sohinder Singh Gill, director general, Society of Manufacturers of Electric Vehicles (SMEV) and CEO, Hero Electric, explaining the ups and downs of FY2019, says: "The positive is that we are learning to stand on our own feet, without any government support. And the negative is that sales in April 2019 have been totally wiped off."

The reason behind the drop in sales is that none of the EVs sold in the country at present are able to meet the new criteria outlined by the Department of Heavy Industries (DHI) under the recently announced second phase of the FAME scheme. In addition, there is also a re-certification process that resulted in EVs having to undergo the entire process of CMVR Rules, which takes around 30 to 45 days of re-testing and has resulted in many vehicles awaiting certification.

Sharing his concerns, Gill says, "If it (ground reality) continues the way it is, the ambition of achieving sales of over 1 million EVs in India in the next few years looks bleak. We won't even be able to achieve 50 percent of the expected target."

He adds that if the situation is not addressed with corrective measures and supportive policies, the industry may see dumping of cheap, unreliable products by companies looking to make a quick buck.

Are manufacturers and customers doing a rethink on expensive lithium-ion?

According to SMEV, if electric vehicle sales in India have to pick up, a realistic approach with supportive policies will be needed, or else EVs would continue to remain a niche product. Gill says a lithium-ion battery powered e-two-wheeler, to get incentives under the FAME II policy, is expected to have a range of around 80km per charge, which means that it will need to have, at least, a 2kW battery that costs around Rs 50,000. This means, for the customer to replace or buy a battery, would be equivalent of buying a new entry level two-wheeler.

The EV body feels that if the unfavourable circumstances prevail, electric two-wheeler customers and manufacturers will be compelled to go back to using lead-acid battery based products. They cost almost half of what a similar lithium-ion battery powered vehicle costs, even after deducting the FAME II subsidy from the latter. Meanwhile, the e-three-wheeler industry has been growing without government support and would continue to do so.

With regards to electric cars in India, at present, only two automakers — Mahindra Electric and Tata Motors — have heavily invested in the EV industry. The lack of incentives for private buyers in FAME II and the high initial cost of an electric car are already dampeners for carmakers to introduce new models and justify their investments. This could lead to global manufacturers bringing in base models through the CBU or CKD route and selling a few hundred units; hence, the industry volumes will continue to remain low.

What’s clear is that if the EV industry is expected to clock more sales and the country is to see higher EV adoption, the ambitious FAME II scheme needs to be aggressively tweaked, keeping in mind all the stakeholders and ground realities.

EV sales in India
Segment	FY2019	FY2018
e-2-wheelers	1,26,000	54,800
e-3-wheelers	6,30,000	NA
e-4-wheelers	3,600	1,200
TOTAL	7,59,000	56,000

from Autocar India http://bit.ly/2GUqAqT
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Maruti Suzuki Ertiga 1.5 diesel vs rivals: Fuel efficiency comparison

Last week, Maruti Suzuki left all of India shocked when it announced its decision to phase out all its diesel models by April 2020 ahead of the implementation of the BS-VI emission norms. Diesels form a big chunk of Maruti Suzuki sales, and this announcement was particularly surprising considering the company has just introduced its brand new, developed-in-house 1.5-litre DDiS 225 diesel engine on the Ciaz. Now, a month later, the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga 1.5-litre diesel has been launched, and it brings more power to the table. But how does the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga 1.5 diesel’s mileage compare to that of its rivals? We take a closer look.

Engine, gearbox and mileage per litre

For the Ertiga 1.5 diesel, the biggest step forward is in the power output department. Compared to the 1.3-litre, Fiat-sourced DDiS 200’s 90hp and 200Nm of torque, the 1.5-litre DDiS 225 produces 95hp and 225Nm of torque. But while it is an improvement and will add some pep to the Ertiga’s step, the DDiS 225 is still some way off matching the outputs of its bigger rivals. You see, the Renault Lodgy’s 1.5-litre dCi diesel engine is available in two states of tune – 85hp and 110hp. While the 85hp variant lags behind the Ertiga’s 1.5 diesel, the 110hp variant not only makes more power, but at 245Nm, has a good deal more torque, too. And then there’s the Mahindra Marazzo – its 1.5-litre diesel engine is the most powerful of the lot, with 121hp and 300Nm of torque. It’s worth noting that this motor also won the Engine of the Year title at the Autocar Awards 2019.

Transmission options are mostly the same for all MPVs listed here. It’s only the 85hp variant of the Lodgy that gets a 5-speed manual. The Maruti Suzuki Ertiga 1.5 diesel gets a new 6-speed manual gearbox, much like the 110hp Lodgy and the Marazzo. Do note that neither of these MPVs get the option of a diesel-automatic.

It’s the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga that has always led on the mileage front, and that doesn’t change even with the arrival of the DDiS 225 diesel engine. Yes, the 1.5-litre DDiS225 isn’t as fuel-efficient as the existing 1.3-litre DDiS 200. The Maruti Suzuki Ertiga 1.5 diesel’s official fuel efficiency figure is 24.2kpl, which is 1.27kpl down on the 1.3-litre diesel’s fuel efficiency figure of 25.47kpl. The 1.3-litre diesel’s mileage figure is aided by the fact that it comes with a mild-hybrid system; a feature that the Ertiga 1.5 diesel misses out on.

Despite the drop in mileage, the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga is still significantly more fuel-efficient than both the Lodgy and Marazzo. Official fuel efficiency figure for the 85hp Lodgy is rated at 21.04kpl, and at a marginally lower 19.98kpl for the 110hp variant. The Mahindra Marazzo’s fuel efficiency figure of 17.3kpl puts it right at the bottom of this list. One thing is clear – for those who value mileage above all else, the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga 1.5 diesel will remain the go-to MPV.

Ertiga 1.5 diesel vs rivals: Engine, gearbox and mileage
	Ertiga 1.5	Ertiga 1.3	Marazzo	Lodgy
Engine	4-cyl, turbo-diesel	4-cyl, turbo-diesel	4-cyl, turbo-diesel	4-cyl, turbo-diesel
Displacement	1498cc	1248cc	1497cc	1461cc
Power	95hp	90hp	121hp	85hp/110hp
Torque	225Nm	200Nm	300Nm	200Nm/245Nm
Gearbox	6-speed MT	5-speed MT	6-speed MT	5-speed MT/6-speed MT
Mileage (ARAI)	24.20kpl	25.47kpl	17.3kpl	19.98kpl/21.04kpl
Mild-hybrid	No	Yes	No	No

But, of course, we must talk about how much you’ll have to shell out for the new diesel engine. The Maruti Suzuki Ertiga 1.5 diesel’s prices range from Rs 9.86-11.20 lakh, and while that means it’s about Rs 29,000 more expensive than the Ertiga’s 1.3-litre DDiS200 variants (and a fair bit more expensive than the base 85hp variant of the Renault Lodgy), the top-spec Ertiga ZDi+ is about Rs 91,000 cheaper than the 110hp Lodgy RXZ, and a massive Rs 3.3 lakh cheaper than the fully-loaded Marazzo M8.

Ertiga 1.5 diesel vs rivals: Price
	Ertiga 1.5	Ertiga 1.3	Marazzo*	Lodgy
Price (ex-showroom, Delhi)	Rs 9.86-11.20 lakh	Rs 8.85-10.91 lakh	Rs 10.18-14.59 lakh	Rs 8.63-12.12 lakh

Think the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga 1.5 diesel is an even more appealing proposition than its rivals? Let us know in the comments.

*Mahindra Marazzo prices are ex-showroom, pan-India

Click here for Maruti Suzuki Ertiga prices, details, reviews, images and videos

Click here for Renault Lodgy prices, details, reviews, images and videos

Click here for Mahindra Marazzo prices, details, reviews, images and videos

from Autocar India http://bit.ly/2GUfjXF
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MG Hector India launch in first-half of June 2019

MG Motor India has begun mass production of its first model, the Hector SUV, at its Halol facility in Gujarat. The new SUV was showcased to the dealer fraternity recently and is expected to see a market launch in the first-half of June 2019.  The company has already appointed around 50 dealers, and the first few dealerships are expected to be ready by mid-May, which is when official bookings for the new MG Hector SUV will begin.

MG will launch the Hector with a 143hp, 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine and an FCA-sourced, 2.0-litre diesel mill. A 6-speed manual will be available as standard on both engines, with the turbo-petrol also getting the option of a 6-speed, dual-clutch automatic gearbox. Also on offer will be a 48V mild-hybrid variant that is claimed to be 12 percent more fuel efficient than the petrol variant. Pricing for the Hector is expected to be in the Rs 15-20 lakh range (ex-showroom).

The Hector will initially be sold in a five-seat configuration in our market. It gets a split-headlight design, with LED DRLs on top and LED headlights positioned lower on the front bumper. A large chrome mesh front grille, diamond-cut alloy wheels and faux front and rear skid plates are all part of the package too.

A long list of features, including a 360-degree camera, a Harman Infinity audio system, six-way power adjustable driver’s seat, push-button start, keyless entry, cruise control and a tyre pressure monitoring system will be available on the Hector. The SUV’s connectivity feature suite will include AI-powered Voice Assist, pre-loaded apps and the ability to receive over-the-air updates.

MG Motor India will launch the Hector in multiple trims. Expect more details to surface, closer to the SUV’s market launch.

Also see:

2019 MG Hector image gallery

Click here for MG Motor India models, est. prices and other details

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Maruti Suzuki Ertiga 1.5 diesel vs rivals: Price comparison

Maruti Suzuki has introduced a more powerful 1.5-litre diesel engine option on the Ertiga. The DDiS 225, as it is called, has been developed by Maruti Suzuki in-house and makes 95hp and 225Nm of torque and gets updates like a dual mass flywheel which results in significantly lower NVH levels. The updated Ertiga also gets a 6-speed manual gearbox as compared to the 5-speed manual in the standard car. While the new Ertiga 1.5 gets changes under the hood, in terms of exterior or interior design and features, it's identical. The updated Ertiga is sold alongside the Ertiga 1.3-litre at Maruti Arena showrooms, and takes on competition like the Mahindra Marazzo and the Renault Lodgy. So let's see how it compares with its rivals in terms of pricing and how it compares with the standard 1.3-litre diesel Ertiga too.

The Maruti Suzuki Ertiga 1.5 DDiS 225 is available in three variants – VDi, ZDi and ZDi+ –while the standard Ertiga 1.3 is available with an additional base model LDi too. While it is available only in a seven-seat configuration, its rivals – the Mahindra Marazzo and the Renault Lodgy – are available with both a seven-seat and an eight-seat configuration. The Mahindra Marazzo gets four variants, both of which get the 7 and 8-seat layout; the Renault Lodgy gets two 7-seat variants and five 8-seater layout variants across the standard and the Stepway body style.

1.5 Ertiga vs 1.3 Ertiga vs Marazzo vs Lodgy: Base variant prices comparison

The most affordable Ertiga 1.5-litre is the VDi variant priced at Rs 9.86 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). The Ertiga 1.3 diesel, however, does get the LDi base model priced at Rs 8.85 lakh. That said, this isn't the cheapest car in this range as the entry-level Renault Lodgy STD is priced at Rs 8.63 lakh. The Lodgy's STD variant is also an 8-seater as compared to the Ertiga’s 7-seater configuration.

Alternatively, the Mahindra Marazzo’s most affordable M2 variant is priced starting at Rs 10.18 lakh, making it the most expensive MPV in the segment. That said, while the most affordable version of the Marazzo, Lodgy and the Ertiga 1.3 do not get an infotainment system, the Ertiga 1.5 VDi does get a factory-fitted infotainment system with Bluetooth. It is also important to note that the base model Lodgy gets no driver or passenger airbag and that in a recent NCAP crash test, the MPV scored a dismal 0 stars.

Ertiga 1.5 diesel vs rivals: Base variant prices
	Ertiga 1.5	Ertiga 1.3	Marazzo	Lodgy
Price (ex-showroom, Delhi)	-	Rs 8.85 lakh	Rs 10.18 lakh	Rs 8.63 lakh

1.5 Ertiga vs 1.3 Ertiga vs Marazzo vs Lodgy: Mid-spec variant prices comparison

Mid-level variants are usually the most popular with buyers across the country, especially in the MPV segment, so let's have a look at how these models stack up in terms of pricing as compared to the newly launched Ertiga 1.5 DDiS 225. As we compared the VDi as the entry- level model in the Ertiga 1.5’s line-up, for this particular comparison, we shall pit the ZDi variant, which is priced at Rs 10.69 lakh.

In comparison, the mid-level variant in the 1.3-litre Ertiga’s line-up is the VDi priced at Rs 9.57 lakh, making it the most affordable. On the flip side, the most expensive amongst these MPVs is the Mahindra Marazzo M6 variant priced at Rs 12.93 lakh, while the Renault Lodgy 85hp RxL is priced at Rs 10.54 lakh. That said, while the Ertiga and the Marazzo variants in this category both get dual airbags as standard, the Lodgy only gets a driver airbag on the RxL variant.

Ertiga 1.5 diesel vs rivals: Mid-spec variant prices
	Ertiga 1.5	Ertiga 1.3	Marazzo*	Lodgy
Prices (ex-showroom, Delhi)	Rs 9.86-10.69 lakh	Rs 9.57-10.40 lakh	Rs 11.38-13.01 lakh	Rs 9.64-11.30 lakh

1.5 Ertiga vs 1.3 Ertiga vs Marazzo vs Lodgy: Top-spec variant prices comparison

The fully loaded or top-spec variants of new cars are extremely popular with urban audiences, and, while the fleet market laps up the lower priced variants, private buyers usually tend to gravitate towards these fully loaded ones. As with the mid-range variants, the 1.3-litre Ertiga diesel is the most affordable MPV in this range. The ZDi+ variant is priced at Rs 10.91 lakh (ex-showroom), whereas the Ertiga 1.5-litre ZDi+ variant is priced at Rs 11.20 lakh – Rs 29,000 more than the smaller engine variant. The Renault Lodgy RxZ Stepway with the 85hp engine and the 8-seat layout is priced at Rs 11.30 lakh, while the 110hp RxZ Stepway with either the 7- or 8-seat layout is priced at Rs 12.12 lakh.

The most expensive of the lot, however, is yet again the Mahindra Marazzo M8, priced at Rs 14.51 lakh for the 7-seater and Rs 14.59 lakh for the 8-seater version.

Ertiga 1.5 diesel vs rivals: Top-spec variant prices
	Ertiga 1.5	Ertiga 1.3	Marazzo	Lodgy
Price (ex-showroom, Delhi)	Rs 11.20 lakh	Rs 10.91 lakh	Rs 14.51-14.59 lakh	Rs 12.12 lakh

All the variants mentioned above get dual airbags, ABS and a touchscreen infotainment system but the Ertiga gets no daytime running light and the Lodgy gets a non-LED daytime running light. The Marazzo certainly looks more premium with the LED DRLs and the larger 17-inch alloy wheels as compared to the smaller 15-inchers that the other two MPVs offer.

*Mahindra Marazzo prices are ex-showroom, pan-India

Click here for Maruti Suzuki Ertiga prices, reviews, images, videos and more

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Branded content: Should Car Owners get a Fuel Credit Card?

With the rising cost of fuel, owning a vehicle has become quite expensive. People are looking for various ways to save on fuel expenses. And in such a scenario, credit cards with benefits on fuel have become quite popular. These cards help you save on the overall cost of refuelling your vehicle with advantages such as surcharge waivers, accelerated rewards, or benefits at specific fuel stations. Let us understand why fuel credit cards deserve a place in your wallet.

Benefits offered on Fuel Credit Cards

Fuel credit cards are similar to normal credit cards with additional privileges on fuel purchase. They may also pack in some other benefits on shopping, travel, dining and entertainment. Broadly, there are three types of fuel benefits that can be availed on credit cards-

Fuel Surcharge Waiver- Most credit cards come with this feature. Whenever you make a payment for fuel, surcharges are levied on the amount, which can range from 1 percent to 3 percent. If your card offers this benefit, a certain percentage or the entire surcharge is waived off. However, the percentage, maximum cap and the transaction amount varies from one card to another.

Accelerated Rewards on Fuel- Another type of benefit comes in the form of rewards. Fuel transactions get you higher reward points than any other category. For example, if a retail transaction gives you 1 reward point for every Rs 100 spent, fuel may get you 5 reward points for the same amount. This feature does not help you save money immediately, but the more you use your card for fuel, the more rewards you will accumulate. These rewards can be redeemed for vouchers and merchandise.

Co-Branded Offers- Banks also collaborate with fuel stations to offer benefits to their customers. Under the co-branded scheme, you will earn higher rewards when you refuel at partner fuel stations. You may also enjoy benefits in other ways such as direct discounts.

Top 5 Fuel Credit Cards

Though a lot of banks offer some form of benefits on their credit cards, there are some cards that stand out when it comes to fuel benefits. Here are some of them:

1. BPCL SBI Card

Launched in collaboration with Bharat Petroleum, this SBI Card is best suited for your fuel needs. It offers 4.25 percent value back on fuel. Separately, it includes 3.25 percent in the form of reward points and 1 percent fuel surcharge waiver. When you refuel at BPCL petrol pumps, you will earn 13X reward points; a maximum of 1,300 reward points can be earned in a billing cycle. An additional 0.75 percent value back is offered as per a mandate from the Government of India. Some other benefits of this credit card include:

• 2,000 reward points as a welcome gift
• 1 reward point for every Rs 100 spent
• Accelerate your reward earnings 5 times on utility bill payment, grocery, movies, dining and departmental store purchases
• Convert transactions above Rs 2,500 into instalments using the Flexipay feature
• Get add-on cards for your spouse, children, siblings or parents

2. IndianOil Citi Platinum Credit Card

The Turbo Point program of this card, which has been launched by Citibank in association with Indian Oil, lets you make the most of your travel expenses. You can get up to 71 litres of free fuel every year through this credit card in the form of rewards across all categories. You will get 4 Turbo Points for every Rs 150 spent on fuel at Indian Oil outlets, plus the 1 percent fuel surcharge is waived off. The Turbo Points are equivalent to their value in rupees. Here are some other benefits of this card:

• Get up to 15 percent off across partner restaurants of Citi Bank
• Earn 2 Turbo Points per Rs 150 at grocery stores and supermarkets
• Other categories offer 1 Turbo Point per Rs 150
• Redeem the Turbo Points directly at merchant outlets or online partners
• Make instant contactless payment using your credit card

3. ICICI Bank HPCL Coral Credit Card

HPCL and ICICI Bank have joined hands to offer this fuel-centric credit card. With this card, you can get 2.5 percent cash back and 1 percent fuel surcharge waiver when you make fuel purchases at HPCL pumps. Other benefits are listed below:\

• Earn 2 PAYBACK Points for every Rs 100 spent across all categories except fuel
• 2,000 PAYBACK Points can be redeemed for fuel worth Rs 500
• Avail minimum 15 percent saving on dining at partner restaurants
• Get Rs 100 off on movie tickets on BookMyShow
• Make secure payments as it is a chip and PIN-enabled credit card

4. Standard Chartered Super Value Titanium Credit Card

This card offers 5 percent cash back on fuel purchases across all fuel stations. The maximum cash back is capped at Rs 200 per billing cycle. Other benefits offered by this card are:

• Earn 1 reward point for every Rs 150 spent across all categories
• Get 5 percent cash back on utility bill payment and telephone bill payment
• Get complimentary Priority Pass Membership allowing access to 1,000+ airport lounges.
• Enjoy a host of discounts across travel, shopping, dining and more
• Make contactless payments without swiping or dipping the card in a POS

5. American Express Membership Rewards Credit Card

This is a premium credit card offering multiple benefits across various categories, including fuel. You can enjoy 0 percent convenience fee when you purchase fuel at HPCL pumps. Listed below are a few other benefits:

• Get 1,000 Membership Reward Points on joining and 5,000 points on card renewal
• Earn 1 Membership Reward Point for every Rs 50 spent across all categories except fuel, utilities, insurance and cash transactions
• Redeem the reward points from the 18 and 24 Karat gold collection
• Make contactless payment using this credit card
• Enjoy 20 percent discount at partner restaurants

Fuel credit cards can be a great addition to your wallet. Once you get a fuel credit card, make smart use of it by putting all your fuel expenses on this card. Make regular bill payments and on time to make sure you do not incur debt.

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Accessorised Jawa Forty Two displayed at dealership

A Jawa Forty Two equipped with a few accessories reveals some of the add-ons that will be available as optional extras for the Jawa and the Forty Two. These include an engine guard and grab-rail options. The source also reveals that a centre stand will come as standard equipment and not as an accessory, as rumoured before.

The crash guard on the display bike is similar to the diamond-shaped ones seen as aftermarket add-ons on Royal Enfields and blend into the overall design of the bike. The other accessory revealed is the grab rail, which, according to the source, will be available in three options – a conventional single piece, a more sophisticated one that consists of a metal base plate, and one with a small cushioned backrest.

At the moment, only select dealers have received these accessories – and the ones who have are still awaiting updates on their pricing. While there is no official list of what other accessories will be on option, sources say that bar-end mirrors will also be a part of the list.

Also see:

Jawa, Jawa Forty Two official fuel-efficiency revealed

Jawa Motorcycles donates Rs 1.49 crore to Armed Forces Flag Day Fund

SOURCE

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Review: Our Cars: Volkswagen Passat long term review video

Also see:

2018 Volkswagen Passat long term review, first report

2018 Volkswagen Passat long term review, second report

2017 Volkswagen Passat video review

2017 Volkswagen Passat review, test drive

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Sponsored feature: No Compromise

Perhaps the saddest word in the English language is the word ‘compromise’. When you compromise, you are giving up a chance to be the best. Suppose you want to buy a three-bedroom house and have a budget for either a two-bedroom house in a great locality, or a three-bedroom house in a less-than-ideal part of town. You have to compromise on one front. If you make either of the choices, you will be dissatisfied, unhappy and sad. When you compromise, there are no winners.

After buying a house, the second-largest amount of money you will most probably spend is on a car. How do you buy a car without making a compromise? Here are some things you to look out for: Does the car compromise style for practicality? Does the car compromise performance for economy? Does the car compromise value for price?

The style statement

Now here’s a car that is not a compromise. The Hyundai Elite i20 is an exercise on how to build a car without compromising on anything. Take a look at the Hyundai Elite i20 and you will realise that this is a car designed to the highest standards of aesthetic sensibility. The proportions are spot on, the lines are organic and the stance, purposeful. Look closely at the details and you will find that it has been crafted with the meticulousness of a master craftsman. The cascading design of the front grille exhibits the same harmony as a Mondrian painting. The projector headlamps have LED DRLs with positioning and cornering lights that look like they were made at the Swarovski factory. The tail-lamps seem to have been designed by a Star Wars fan in love with the Millennium Falcon. The diamond-cut alloy wheels stand out like a Macaw in an aviary full of pigeons. This is a car that will stand proudly beside the Director’s limousine in the parking lot without being humbled.

In fact, the Hyundai punches above its weight. It’s packed with features that grace the upper echelons of the segment. For example, no car in this segment gives you a wireless charger or eco-coating technology. The rear camera with parking guidelines helps the driver back into tight spaces with millimetre accuracy and is the best you will find in this segment. Then there are features like the smart key with the engine start/stop button, to add to the ease. A fully automatic air-conditioner with rear vents make life on the road comfortable.

Speaking of the rear, the back seat is the ideal space to get your work done while the chauffeur takes care of the traffic. There’s even an armrest with cupholders, should you decide to pick up coffee at Starbucks, along the way. The long equipment list couldn’t have gotten much longer and the interior quality is pretty much at the top of the class.

Another great feature in this car is the Autolink app connectivity. The Autolink app allows you to monitor driving patterns, check vehicle health, get roadside assistance and make a service request. What then, does the Hyundai Elite i20 say about you? It says that you recognise great value despite the obfuscation of media, trends and tags. Plus, you don’t compromise. Isn’t that what has bought you so far in your career?

Get the party started

While you work hard on weekdays, you play harder on weekends. It’s time out with friends and family. The Hyundai Elite i20 makes no compromise when it’s your time out. Be it an evening out with friends or a weekend out with the family, this is the real Transformer, but without the shape-changing antics. Look closer at the large 7.0-inch screen at the centre of the dash. This is a touchscreen that’s the infotainment hub of the car. It’s compatible with both Apple and Android phones. It’s connected to Arkamys Sound Mood system that allows an elevation and a spatialisation of the sound within the vehicle cabin and provides a customised sound signature. So if you are an audiophile, this is your nirvana. It also plays your videos and understands voice commands. Why wait for the DJ to get your party started?

The best thing is that this does not come at the cost of practicality. Does a car with compact dimensions, to deal with the thrust and parry of city traffic, have to compromise on cabin space? The Hyundai Elite i20 proves that it need not be. It’s spacious enough to cocoon five XXL-sized passengers in complete comfort. Adding to the comfort is the suspension that’s tuned to make the passengers believe that our roads have improved drastically, without spoiling the fun for the driver. Take any seat in the car and you will discover yourself surrounded by thoughtful features. After all, you should not need a second or a third car for a long drive. The Hyundai Elite i20 is kitted out with thoughtful details to make life better on long drives. The doors can hold a standard one-litre water bottle. There are storages and cubby holders everywhere to safely stow away all your knick-knacks; sunglasses, phone, soda cans, et al. The generous boot swallows your luggage. Since no two people are built the same, the Hyundai Elite i20’s adjustable steering and driver’s seat helps the person behind the wheel find a comfortable driving position. If you are covering long distances, this is a very essential feature, since a more comfortable driver is a safer driver.

The power of safety

Speaking of safety, the Hyundai Elite i20 once again makes no compromises. It’s equipped with an armoury of active and passive safety systems. Due to the bumper to bumper traffic in the city, an accident usually results in dents and scratches, but an accident on our high-speed highways is a different matter altogether. The Hyundai Elite i20 comes with dual airbags and anti-lock braking system as standard across all variants. Hyundai will give you side curtain airbags, should you want them. Also standard are impact-sensing door unlock, speed-sensing auto door lock, power window with pinch guard and Isofix mounts to keep your little ones safe in their child seats.

We have left the best for the last. Is the Hyundai Elite i20 all show and no go? On the contrary. The proof of the pudding is in the eating. Take the Hyundai Elite i20 for a drive and you will believe that this car is powered by the raging testosterone of a teenager. It’s actually powered by two excellent engines. The 1.2-litre Kappa Dual VTVT Petrol engine incorporates Dual variable timing valve train (dual VTVT) to offer optimum fuel efficiency and performance. With a maximum power of 83hp at 6,000rpm and a torque output of 115Nm, this is the engine for the driver high on revs. There is a manual 5-speed transmission mated to this engine. For those looking for an automatic, there is also a CVT transmission available with the petrol engine. For drivers looking for the torque, there is the 1.4-litre U2 CRDi Diesel. This is the most technologically advanced engine in the Hyundai diesel family and it is extremely refined. You will find it hard to tell that this is a diesel. With a maximum power of 90hp at 4,000rpm, torque output of 220Nm, and mated with a 6-speed manual gearbox, the engine has proven track record for its reliability, durability and powerful performance. This motor comes with a 6-speed manual transmission to maximise fuel efficiency. Here is proof that you don’t have to sacrifice performance for efficiency.

This is the most important paragraph in this feature. If you have read it this far, you have gone through 1,265 words – but don’t take our words at face value; not one. Go to a Hyundai showroom and test drive an Elite i20 for yourself. Take your time with it. Scrutinise it to the smallest possible detail and go out of your way to find fault in the car. At the very end of it all, if you feel that you are compromising somewhere, walk out. But rest assured, you will not.

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Ladies, Start Your Engines... - Ford #SheDrives pro driving school feature

Motoring events are high on every true-blue automotive aficionado’s wish list. We, at Autocar India, are always looking forward to such occasions because they present us with a chance to live the passion that drives us. Sadly, these events don’t see enough participation from women. This begged the question: Why should boys have all the fun? Can’t women manoeuvre a car around a track as well as men? To put this to rest, we teamed up with Ford India to organise #SheDrives – a first-of-its-kind pro driving school for women. And to help the ladies get in touch with their inner petrolheads, we had Asia-Pacific Rally Champion, Gaurav Gill, as driver coach. The first event held in Mumbai was a resounding success. The school then moved to Delhi-NCR to give women another go at driving like pros.

Held in Gurugram over a bright and sunny weekend at the end of March, the second edition of Ford #SheDrives saw the participation of over 120 women from all walks of life. To help them learn advanced driving techniques, an autocross track was constructed, consisting of fast straights, tight corners and chicanes. The morning began with ace rally car driver, Gill, taking each of the participants on a sighting lap in a completely stock Ford Freestyle, acquainting them with various portions of the track. This was followed by an all-out hot lap, which showed the participants what it would mean to drive on the edge. All women then drove around the dirt track and their performances were timed.

Having set a benchmark, the participants moved to a slalom course where they practised various skills such as tackling corners on dirt, dealing with understeer and oversteer and using the handbrake to go sideways (in a controlled manner, of course). Finally, they were given another shot at a hot lap to see if they could shave crucial seconds off their time.

With practice coming to an end, it was time for the participants to put the pedal to the metal. But before that, topics like the right line to take around the track, acceleration and braking were discussed with the instructors to wring the most out of their cars – and the results, you ask? They managed to better their lap times by a considerable margin and the instructors were highly impressed with a few; and that’s no small feat. According to Gill, the time spent on the circuit was not just about fun. “The new insights into driving techniques will also help the participants become better and safer drivers on the road, and that’s a wonderful thing,” he said.

By the end of the day, there was a grin on every participant’s face. All of them felt the very concept of a driving programme exclusively for women made them feel comfortable about signing up for such an event. Some had such a blast that they showed up on the second day, just to have another chance at bettering their lap times.

With both the Mumbai and Gurugram legs witnessing a high turnout, the #SheDrives pro driving school will soon make its way to another city. So, ladies, keep your eyes peeled for an update on our social media channels!

Q&A ANURAG MEHROTRA, MD, FORD INDIA

How has Ford worked to preserve the fun-to-drive element associated with its models?

Over the past few years, we’ve made sure that both the product as well as the experience we create for the customers is something that lives up to the ‘fun to drive’ idea. And we’ve seen that over the last five years in the new car buyer survey conducted every six months, people have started appreciating those aspects as well – not just the ‘fun to drive’ element but also safety. It’s becoming more important than just price or cost of ownership.

Are you seeing more women car buyers walking into Ford showrooms?

There are more women buyers coming in. Today, across the industry, 8 percent of car ownership is women. We believe over the next few years that figure will rise to 12 percent. The good thing, as far as Ford is concerned, is that women constitute 15 percent of all EcoSport buyers, and 25 percent of Freestyle buyers.

How will you adapt your products to better suit the needs of women buyers?

As OEMs, we’ll have to start thinking about crafting and designing products that keep the sensibilities of women at the fore, and the orientation or utility they may be looking for. I’m happy to see women car ownership increasing and to see them going after attributes beyond price and cost of ownership.

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Sponsored feature: A snappy guide to engine oils

The right engine oil does more than you think

We all know what engine oils do – lubricate the numerous moving parts that function under a range of temperatures and stresses and protect the motor against a variety of threats, including corrosion, wear, and the accumulation of dirt and deposits. As importantly, it also directly impacts performance, fuel consumption, and emissions. In short, lubricants such as engine oils are vital in ensuring the longevity of your engine.

The importance of the right formulation

To do all the above, an engine oil needs to have the right characteristics. It should have sufficiently high viscosity to isolate the moving components in the engine under a range of conditions related to speed, load and temperature. And, at low temperatures, it should possess a sufficiently low viscosity to be directed towards important engine components on start-up.

Synthetic versus conventional

Both synthetic and conventional oils are made from crude, but there are several key differences. Synthetic oils are purer compared to conventional mineral oils, and are made from a more advanced refining process. Synthetic oils are more free-flowing than conventional mineral oils, and the result is enhanced protection for the engine. For example, unlike conventional oils that take time to circulate through the engine on start-up, a synthetic lubricant starts circulating faster and, thus, protects moving parts within the motor. The reason synthetic oils are considered superior to conventional oils is because they contain more highly refined base oils, which play a role in offering you better protection and performance. Synthetic oils also positively impact fuel economy, since they help engines reach peak operating efficiency sooner. They are also more eco-friendly, as they help slash engine emissions compared to conventional mineral oils. The latter also contain more impurities – sulfur, for instance – that cannot be filtered out by conventional refining.

Understanding the labels and reading the signs

First things first – always ensure you use a motor oil of the recommended grade. Now, see that ‘5W-30’ on the label? That’s the viscosity grade which tells you how the oil operates at various temperatures. (Viscosity is the measure of any liquid’s resistance to flow.) So, 5W-30 refers to the viscosity of the oil at 0 degrees F, or -17.8 degrees C. ‘W’ signifies ‘winter’, and a 5W-30 oil would be more fluid in the cold than a 10W-30 oil. The number after the ‘W’ indicates the oil’s viscosity at 212 degrees Fahrenheit or 100 degrees C. This indicates the oil’s resistance to thinning at high temperatures. Today, many modern car manufacturers recommend thinner oils such as 5W-30. The reason is that tighter component clearances in modern engines need thinner oils, and such oils are also capable of providing better fuel economy due to their less resistance to flow at all temperature extremes. 

What kind of engine oil should you be using?

You’ll find the answer to that in the owner’s manual. If it says semi-synthetic oil, you could reap benefits from using a synthetic oil for improved performance and protection.

See that icon? If it lights up or flashes constantly, you’ve got to pay prompt attention. Stop your car and check the oil. The reason the light comes on is because it indicates low pressure in the engine, which means, there isn’t enough oil, or the oil pump is not doing its job right.

Open your car’s hood, and locate the dipstick. Use the dipstick to check the engine oil level. (The dip stick is usually of a bright colour, and sports a T-shaped or round handle.) Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean, and insert it back into the engine. Now, remove it again to check the oil level. If the level is not at an optimum – it should be between two marks indicated on the dipstick – you should top up your engine oil pronto.

 

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Sponsored feature: Mercedes Of Service: The Difference Is In The Details

Behind every shiny Mercedes-Benz is a bunch of people who work diligently and quietly to ensure that each and every car, from the A-class to the S-class stays that way. The German carmaker’s commitment to aftersales service is as exemplary as its drive to produce, arguably, the world’s best and safest cars. This is as true in India as anywhere else in the world. All you’ve got to do is pay a visit to one of the manufacturer’s many authorised workshops. (Mercedes-Benz India has 64 service touchpoints across the country, so its customers’ cars are never too far from one.)

 

Mercedes-Benz ranked highest in aftersales service satisfaction among luxury carmakers in the JD Power 2018 India Customer Service Index study; but what is it that makes the experience different from those of other manufacturers? One part of it hinges on being unobtrusively efficient; the other is knowing how to employ technology wisely and yet retain the human touch. These are values central to ‘My Mercedes. My Service.’  – the company’s comprehensive aftersales initiative that optimises technology to create both convenience and value for the customer.

 

 Making technology work

 

Everything at Mercedes-Benz is a process. Even inspiration and creativity, which gives rise to automobiles such as the AMG GT, is part of a method that melds intelligence, emotion and forward-thinking. The same philosophy is followed by each and every one of its authorised workshops across the country.

 

And as with all other aspects of the Mercedes experience, its digitisation of a major part of 

its aftersales service is so seamless, it almost goes unnoticed.

 

 

The aftersales experience for a customer, regardless of whether it is his first Mercedes or the fifth, starts with discreet reminders over email and SMS from his or her customer services consultant, a month before the due date. A personalised service reminder SMS also directs the customer to the online service appointment booking page. The process is set in motion, and it involves everyone from a Mercedes-Benz technician, who has intimate knowledge of the cars, to a quality manager, who oversees each and every aspect of the aftersales experience. Every Mercedes-Benz dealership has a range of certified technicians, from bench technicians to diagnostics engineers with years of training under their belt. Their expertise, combined with the use of Mercedes-Benz Genuine Parts, results in cars getting impeccable service.

 

The digital experience continues with the day the car is dropped off at the service centre – either by the customer himself or by a chauffeur. Customers can also avail a pick-up and drop-off option, in which case one of the workshop’s car delivery executives comes into the picture. Armed with a tablet, the executive notes down the car’s condition, and, if needed, connects the customer to his customer services consultant. Should the customer drop in himself, for a Premier Express Service (in which a car is serviced in just 140min) he can make himself comfortable at the customer lounge, which delivers excellent hospitality with quiet sophistication.

 

 

On the job

 

Screens – of tablets, computers and diagnostic tools – are a huge part of this experience. A customer services consultant or quality manager can track the entire process of the car on his tablet, right from the time it comes into the workshop and is ready for allocation. A few taps on the tablet screen and an estimate is sent to the customer for his or her approval, after the car has been checked by the certified technician.

 

Mercedes’ technicians have years of training under their belt

 

Should he be away from the workshop and want to track the progress of the work on his car, a video call from the customer service consultant’s end will get him the clarity he seeks. Similarly, a quality manager gets to know exactly at what stage of the service a car is in, or which bay of the workshop it is located in – even the time allocated to deliver it to the customer – thanks to the Job Controller screen. The Job Controller screen dispenses details on spare parts inventory and such. How does all this help the customer? He gets complete transparency on the work process, and has access to up-to-date information about his car.

 

Delivering the best

 

Once a car has been serviced and handed over, Mercedes-Benz’s customer services consultants seek instant feedback on the car from the customer. Did he or she find the car to be clean? Is there anything else that he or she would want to be done? The feedback form is mailed back to the customer service consultant, who gets in touch with the customer after five days for more detailed feedback, which is bookmarked and kept in mind when the next service is due. The comprehensive digitisation of the aftersales experience is but one significant part of the Mercedes-Benz aftersales universe. As always, it is backed by a human touch that helps the manufacturer live up to its slogan: The Best or Nothing.

 

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Sponsored feature: Kia: From perception to pavement

There is a tiger in the room. Or rather, it’s the signature ‘tiger-nose’ grille of Kia. Inspired by the powerful face of the Royal Bengal tiger, the company first unveiled the face of Kia on a sports coupé concept at the Frankfurt Motor show in 2007. Over the years, this vision has resulted in the establishment of a consistent design DNA across the Kia model line-up. The tiger-nose grille is just one of the details that illustrate Kia’s commitment and its deep understanding of design. For the unbelievers, here’s something to chew on: In 2018, Kia shared the stage with a Ferrari at a top design award – but more on that later. For now, let’s take a look at what’s behind the curtain at Kia design.

DESIGN RULES AT KIA

The head of design at Kia, like a film director, orchestrates a team of over 250 in design studios across the world – Namyang, Korea; Frankfurt, Germany; Orange County, California; and Tokyo, Japan, among others. Talking about design being a driver, a designer at Kia says, “Kia has made its name as a challenger brand, as a company that has the power to surprise, and as a design-driven brand. We think having a consistent design language throughout the whole product range helped a lot to create brand awareness and to create an image of Kia as being one big brand. You can tell a Kia from a distance.” What he is talking about is Kia’s family face – the tiger-nose grille. Kia has created a visual signature as powerful as its brand logo. The signature grille, headlamps and brand logo form a unique and consistent family look that has evolved over the years and is now so common on the roads that people instantly recognise the brand from a distance; or in the dark.

WHAT IS KIA DESIGN?

At Kia, design does not begin with a blank sheet of paper. It begins with conversations with people
who will one day buy a Kia car. That’s because design is not just about shapes, lines, or embellishments. It is about instilling soul into a brand and making customers passionate about it. That’s why Kia engages and interacts with people across the world and across segments – to gain a more extensive understanding of how to make the brand more exciting and fun. The next step is to find inspiration. Designers at Kia find inspiration in the world around us – the manner in which changes in light illuminate an object, the way things function, the delicacy of balance, how things sound, or even the physicality of a solid object. A Kia design must create true excitement by igniting passion and challenging the intellect, by reflecting class, and by creating magic. At the core of Kia’s design philosophy is the simplicity of a straight line. As another Kia designer explains, “There is no straight line on a car, but it’s about simplicity and pureness, like a snow crystal – very architectural.” Straight lines represent clarity, precision and distinctiveness – traits which reflect the vision of Kia’s designers.

THE DESIGN PROCESS

SKETCHING AND RENDERING: The real job of putting pen to paper starts about a quarter of the way through the design process. It’s only after a detailed analysis and understanding of consumer needs, lifestyle, and trends that the sketching and rendering of the initial design concepts and ideas are done.

TAPE DRAWING: A simple black tape is a critical tool in the design process at Kia design studios. Designers create concept sketches of cars on an upright surface like a wall on a 1:1 scale factor, using tapes. Not only the character, but the real volume can be recognised with a few striking lines. The main reason for these full-size upright sketches is that designers and managers want to determine and evaluate the principle curves of a design as early in the design process as possible.

DIGITAL MODELLING: At this stage, state-of-the-art digital technologies come to play in the design process. From two-dimensional sketches, CAS (computer-aided styling) designers create a virtual three-dimensional vehicle to assess the design and aerodynamics.

VR MODEL REVIEW: Thanks to virtual reality (VR), Kia is speeding up the process of getting a vehicle from perception to pavement. By strapping on a wireless headset, designers can see, edit and interact with every element of the car in a virtual world. What happens if we lower this a little? If we change that, how will it affect the overall design? This new technology reduces the time it takes to review and discuss changes. It also allows for more immersive interactions between designers and engineers.

1:1 SCALE CLAY MODELLING: So far, the car designs have been two-dimensional, but now the form-finding process becomes three-dimensional – and the design tool they use is not a high-tech supercomputer or virtual reality, but venerable and defiantly low-tech clay models. The design is brought to life in three-dimensional form and in original size, allowing the designers to fine-tune surfaces, lines and details. The clay model is also used to test the aerodynamics of the car in
a wind tunnel.

COLOUR AND TRIM: A car doesn’t just need to look good, but it must feel good too. In addition to the look and the shade of the paint, the texture of the surfaces, the colour of the upholstery, the cushioning of the seat, the detailing of the switches – all add up to the feel-good factor in a car. Every little detail is crafted and polished to perfection before a car gets the Kia signature.

AWARD-WINNING DESIGN

Kia has won a cabinet full of awards for its design. Nothing quite demonstrates its design chops like the Red Dot Awards. For those in the know, ‘Red Dot’ has become established internationally as one of the most sought-after seals of quality for good design. The Kia Optima won a Red Dot Award for Product Design in 2016 in the category ‘vehicles’ with the highest distinction, the Red Dot: ‘Best of the Best’. It shared the honour with the Ferrari 488 GTB!

In 2018, it was the Kia Stinger’s turn to win the Best of the Best Car Design award at the Red Dot Awards – and these are just two of the numerous design honours that Kia has picked up over the years. The story of Kia design is an evolving one. Even as you read this, a team of people sitting across the world is busy at work designing the next Kia blockbuster.

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Honda HR-V India launch confirmed for 2019

Honda has begun the groundwork on introducing an all-new SUV to its India line-up. According to sources, the Honda HR-V SUV will see its India launch sometime this year – mostly likely around the Diwali festival. Back in October 2017, we reported that the Honda HR-V is expected to be one of six new launches from the brand for India, out of which we have already seen the introduction of the new CR-V, Civic and the second-gen Amaze.

Honda has been evaluating the India launch of the HR-V for some time now but, due to the limited amount of localised components, the model has been a tough business case for the brand. According to company sources, Honda has finally decided to take the plunge and give the model a go-ahead for its India launch. The HR-V will sit between the larger CR-V and the smaller BR-V in the carmaker’s India line-up. Honda will import the SUV via the CKD route and assemble the vehicle in the country. 

The HR-V for India is likely to come with a 1.8-litre petrol engine, similar to the one seen on the Civic, mated to a CVT gearbox only. Additionally, the 120hp 1.6-litre diesel is also expected to make it here with the HR-V.  

The current-gen Honda HR-V first went on sale back in 2013 and received its first mid-cycle update in 2018. India will get a refreshed version of the HR-V that comes with front styling similar to the CR-V, along with 17-inch alloys, LED headlamps, and tail-lamps with LED bits. On the inside, the SUV is likely to mimic the Civic's infotainment system and other features, including a sunroof that will be offered on the higher-spec variant. 

The HR-V is 4,295mm long, 1,770mm wide and 1,605mm high, and comes with a 2,610mm wheelbase. In comparison, the Hyundai Creta is slightly shorter at 4,270mm, a bit wider at 1,780mm and taller at 1,630mm, and comes with a slightly shorter 2,590mm wheelbase. The Honda gets a rounded coupe-like design and comes with a ground clearance of 180mm, while the Creta has a more upright SUV-like design and stands a bit taller, at 190mm ground clearance, which makes the HR-V look smaller than it actually is.  

According to sources, Honda is likely to price the HR-V just below the Civic sedan, which means a starting price of around Rs 15 lakh (ex-showroom) could be expected. While this may not justify the price-to-size ratio for the HR-V, the company will market the SUV at the slightly higher end of the segment. This means it will also take on the likes of the Jeep Compass petrol and the upcoming MG Hector petrol, to some extent. 

Expect more details on the India-spec HR-V to trickle in as the launch nears.

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PhotoGallery: Honda HR-V facelift image gallery

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Suzuki Gixxer 250 to be launched on May 20

Suzuki has just teased what appears to be the Gixxer 250 bike for India. The teaser image also reveals a date (May 20, 2019) which we believe is the launch date. Along with this, Suzuki has also said that this upcoming motorcycle will be the “most exciting launch of the year”.

While it still remains uncertain, it is highly unlikely that the Japanese manufacturer would refer to a mere update to a current model from the line-up as the most exciting launch of the year. The teaser also says “witness the dawn of greatness” which would also suit an all-new model more than an update to a current-gen model. The image itself appears to be a side view of the front-end of a motorcycle and looks like it reveals the shape of the headlight from the side.

Rumours of a 250cc Suzuki motorcycle for the Indian market have been doing the rounds for the past few years. Last year, we were the first ones to tell you that Suzuki would launch a 250cc motorcycle in India this year. Suzuki could call the 250cc bike something else, but the Gixxer brand is quite strong in India – which why we believe that's what it will be called. While Suzuki hasn’t confirmed this, we feel the Gixxer 250 will debut as a streetfighter first, before a faired variant is launched.

The Gixxer 250 is expected to feature muscular styling elements which are seen on the more premium Suzuki GSX-S750 and the GSX-S1000 models on sale in India. There's also a chance Suzuki Gixxer 250 might also share visual details with the updated Haojue DR300 that was recently patented.

Powering the Suzuki Gixxer 250 will be a new 250cc, single-cylinder engine. This motor will probably get a 4-valve head, but will employ an oil-cooler instead of liquid-cooling, so as to keep costs low. Power output should be in the range of 22-25hp. Whether the bike gets a 5-speed gearbox like the Yamaha FZ25 remains to be seen. However, we’re hoping that Suzuki equips the Gixxer 250 with a 6-speed 'box.

In terms of pricing, it's fair to expect that the new Gixxer 250 will be positioned somewhere near Yamaha FZ25; which, in turn, costs Rs 1.33 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).

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Renault Kwid facelift launch by end-2019

Renault is working on a facelift for the Kwid budget hatchback. A test mule has been spotted under heavy camouflage and it appears to be styled along the lines of the recently launched Renault K-ZE electric vehicle that was unveiled at the 2019 Shanghai motor show.

From the K-ZE, the Kwid facelift borrows design elements such as the split headlight design which has the LED DRLs positioned near the grille and the main headlight lower down on the bumper. The car also gets new front and rear bumpers along with new hub-caps, giving it a more modern look overall.

Apart from the cosmetic changes, the refreshed Kwid will also see structural upgrades that will help it meet the upcoming crash test norms that are set to kick in from October 2019.

Not much is known about the interior layout, though Renault is expected to update the infotainment system as part of the facelift. It is also possible that the French carmaker will equip the car with new upholstery options and a new instrument cluster, similar to the one seen in the K-ZE electric hatchback.

Mechanically, the upcoming Kwid facelift is expected to come with BS-VI-compliant versions of the 0.8-litre and 1.0-litre three-cylinder engines that powers the current Kwid. Power outputs are expected to remain the same with the 0.8-litre unit making 54hp and 72Nm, while the larger 1.0-litre unit will produce 68hp and 91Nm. Gearbox options include a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT, which will also be carried over from the current car.

The Renault Kwid facelift will be launched towards the end of 2019. However, prior to the launch of the Kwid, Renault will launch the new Triber MPV and the Duster facelift.

 Also see:

New Renault Kwid K-ZE EV revealed

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Autocar India May 2019 issue out on stands now!

Our May 2019 issue is an EV special. To go with the theme, we bring you exclusive first drives of the Tata Tigor EV, Mahindra eKUV100, Hyundai Kona EV, Nissan Leaf, Ford Aspire EV, a prototype of the MG eZS electric SUV and the Nissan Note e-Power. We’ve also tried living with a Jaguar I-Pace and Volvo XC90 T8 plug-in hybrid to see if they can cut it in the real world. Plus, we have drives of the Maruti Ciaz with the new 1.5 diesel, the BMW 8 Series convertible and 7 Series facelift, new-gen Porsche 911, road tests of the Tata Harrier and updated Bajaj Dominar 400 and a face-off between the new Honda Civic and Skoda Octavia, to go with our review of the Royal Enfield Bullet Trials 500 and plenty of juicy industry news and features. Here are the highlights:

Tata Tigor EV

It has been in the news, and now, we’ve finally driven the all-electric version of the Tata Tigor compact sedan.

Hyundai Kona EV

The Kona EV will soon become Hyundai’s first all-electric model for India. We drive it out to find out just how good it is.

Ford Aspire EV

Mahindra and Ford are co-developing a new, all-electric sedan. We have a go in the prototype to see what it’s like.

Mahindra eKUV100

The smallest crossover from the Mahindra portfolio has gone down the electric path. We bring you an exclusive first drive.

Nissan Leaf

An EV that drives like a conventional car? The Nissan Leaf delivers on its promise.

MG eZS prototype

We get a taste of what is to come with MG’s first all-electric SUV for India, the eZS, thanks to a drive in a prototype.

Tesla Model 3

Getting behind the wheel of the fastest, most powerful version of Tesla’s most affordable model yet.

Maruti Suzuki Ciaz 1.5 diesel

Just how good is Maruti Suzuki’s developed-in-house 1.5-litre diesel engine in the Ciaz?

Honda Civic vs Skoda Octavia

The Honda Civic is back. Can it dethrone the Octavia?

BMW 7 Series facelift

There’s more to the updated flagship BMW sedan than its ostentatious kidney grille.

Royal Enfield Trials 500

The Royal Enfield Bullet has had a cool makeover – is it worth the price, though?

Hyundai Venue first look

Compact SUVs will soon have competition from the Hyundai Venue. We get up close for a detailed first look.

Breaking the BIC lap record… again!

We head back to the Buddh in a Porsche 911 GT2 RS to vapourise our own production car lap record.

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Hero XPulse 200, 200T bookings open

The Hero XPulse 200 and the XPulse 200T are set to be launch on May 1. And after speaking with multiple dealers across the country, we have come to know that a select few dealerships have begun accepting bookings for the upcoming motorcycles. While most dealerships have a booking amount of Rs 5,000, some of them are even accepting bookings for just Rs 2,000.

The XPulse 200 is the long overdue update to the now-discontinued Hero Impulse. The Impulse’s underwhelming performance figures, along with an off-road market that wasn’t very active at the time, was to blame for its poor initial sales. That said, the bike eventually went on to becoming a favourite with the growing off-road community, well after it was discontinued. The XPulse will come as an affordable and lightweight addition to this ‘off-road’ segment, when compared to other existing models in the category, like the Royal Enfield Himalayan.

On the other hand, the XPulse 200T (T for touring) is a road-biased version of the XPulse 200, and the differences in kit addresses its intended application. There’s little that we don’t know about these motorcycles already, and you can head here take a look at all the details.

Also see:

Hero faired 200cc motorcycle spied undisguised

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Entry-level Hyundai Venue seen for the first time

Hyundai’s next product for India, the Venue compact SUV will see a market launch on May 21, 2019. And as reported by us earlier, this new Hyundai SUV will rival the Ford Ecosport, Vitara Brezza, the Tata Nexon and the recently launched Mahindra XUV300.  

Hyundai India will commence accepting online and dealer-level bookings for the Venue compact SUV from May 2, 2019.

The Venue compact SUV made its public debut on April 17, but the model showcased was the top trim. However, new spy pictures have surfaced now and they are of the entry-level Venue. The Hyundai Venue compact SUV seen in these pictures doesn't get a lot of equipment offered on the top variant that was revealed earlier.

It misses out on projector headlamps, daytime running lamps are replaced by a chrome outline, and there are no front fog lamps either. The Venue gets conventional fender-mounted turn indicators instead of the ones mounted on the wing mirrors. There's no additional trim on the doors or chrome door handles either. Also, the stylish alloy wheels of the top-spec model are replaced by steel wheels and plastic covers, similar to the ones seen on next-gen Grand i10 test vehicles. 

Going by the equipment deletion on the outside, it is safe to assume that the entry-level Venue will miss out on the sunroof and the new connected touchscreen infotainment system.

As far as engines go, the Hyundai Venue will be available with three options –  a 1.2-litre petrol, a 1.4-litre diesel and an all-new 1.0-litre turbo petrol motor. Gearbox choices will include a 5 or 6-speed manual, and new 7-speed dual-clutch automatic that will be available only on 1.0-litre turbo-petrol option.

Hyundai hasn't revealed the variant break-up for the Venue compact SUV. We can expect top trims to come with a sunroof, wireless charging, cruise control, keyless go and an 8.0-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The Venue will also set the benchmark for connectivity in the compact SUV segment with its e-SIM-based Blue Link system that offers 33 functions.

Prices for the Hyundai Venue are expected to be in the Rs 8-12 lakh (ex-showroom) bracket, which could make it among the pricier models in the category.

Also see:

Hyundai Venue image gallery

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Maruti Suzuki Ertiga 1.5 diesel launched at Rs 9.86 lakh

After introducing its new 95hp, 1.5-litre diesel engine (DDiS 225) on the Ciaz, Maruti Suzuki has now launched the Ertiga MPV with the same motor. Like the Maruti sedan, the Ertiga 1.5 diesel is not available on the base variant. In addition, the Ertiga 1.5 and Ertiga 1.3 (with the Fiat-sourced 1.3-litre motor) variants will sell side-by-side at Maruti’s Arena dealerships, for now. Ertiga 1.5 diesel prices are about Rs 29,000 more than the equivalent Ertiga 1.3-litre variants, due to the addition of the new engine and gearbox.

The in-house-developed four-cylinder diesel motor develops the same 95hp at 4,000rpm and 225Nm of torque at 1,500-2,500rpm. It is identical, in every aspect, to the engine that sits under the hood of the Ciaz – from the dual mass flywheel to the new 6-speed manual gearbox. However, due to the Ertiga's relatively higher kerb weight, the ARI-rated mileage per litre figure is now 24.20kpl, compared to the 26.82kpl on the Ciaz.

Compared to the Maruti Ertiga 1.3-litre diesel, the Ertiga 1.5 should be quicker and more driveable (thanks to the extra 5hp and 25Nm of torque) but is less fuel-efficient by a 1.27kpl margin.

Maruti Suzuki claims that the Ertiga is the leader in its segment, having captured 39 percent of the segment’s market share. The brand also claims that the second-gen Ertiga, which had launched in India back in November 2018, has sold more than 40,000 units until April 2019, reflecting a year-on-year growth of over 150 percent.

Besides the new engine-gearbox combination, the Ertiga is otherwise unchanged in terms of features or design.

As we had reported previously, Maruti will phase out all diesel cars before the April 2020 deadline to upgrade to BS-VI emission norms, though an interview with chairman R C Bhargava confirmed that the 1.5-litre DDiS 225 diesel engine may make a comeback in BS-VI form depending on customer acceptability.

2019 Maruti Suzuki Ertiga diesel variant-wise price (ex-showroom, Delhi)
Variants	Ertiga 1.5	Ertiga 1.3
Ertiga LDi	-	Rs 8.85 lakh
Ertiga VDi	Rs 9.86 lakh	Rs 9.57 lakh
Ertiga ZDi	Rs 10.69 lakh	Rs 10.40 lakh
Ertiga ZDi+	Rs 11.20 lakh	Rs 10.91 lakh

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