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50 New cars for 2012Don't buy your next car before you've had a look at the new car list below. We have compiled an array of excitingnew cars with detailed info on what's coming and when.

In our ever-changing market, you really need to be on top of model upgrades and new car launches, especially ifyou are about to sign a considerable amount of your savings on an all-new car.

The last thing you want is to see a new and superior model out on the roads, soon after youve spent your hard-earned money on a car that could be quickly outdated. So, to keep you in the know, straight from our confidentialfiles, an almost complete list of new cars manufacturers are planning to put on sale in India this year.

Tata Safari face-lift

It may be long in the tooth now but Tata Motors hasnt given up on the Safari just yet. The big Tata is to receive amajor update in early 2012 and this model is currently known by its codename Merlin. Styling changes arefocused largely on the front and include striking new L-shaped headlights and a more pronounced front bumper.Interior quality should be similar to the more expensive Tata Aria and equipment levels could be enhanced aswell. The biggest change though will be under the skin with the new Safari set to adopt Tatas new X2 platformthat debuted on the Aria. Shortened to the Safaris 2650mm wheelbase, the X2 will change the way the Safaridrives and ride, handling and noise insulation should see a marked improvement.The 140bhp 2.2 DiCOR diesel engine will power the new model but will be substantially worked on to improverefinement. Expect the updated Safari to bear a price tag of around Rs 11 lakh.Factfile:Engine: 2.2-litre dieselPower/Torque: 140bhp/32.6kgmKerb weight: NA

L/W/H: NAExpected: Early 2012Price: Rs 11 lakh

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New Toyota Camry

Toyota has played it safe with the Camrys styling for far too long. However, the 2012 Camry to be launched at the Auto Expo is bolder than ever before. The lines have a hint of Lexus to them and the interiors look more

luxurious too. Toyota also claims theres more space inside. We expect Toyota to replace the current 2.4-litreVVT-i engine with the newer 2.5-litre VVT-i motor. Power output increases by a mere 2bhp to 167bhp thoughrefinement levels should improve further. In addition, the new engine could come mated to new six-speed manualand automatic transmissions. The big news is that Toyota plans to assemble the Camry from CKD kits at itsBidadi plant which translates to more competitive pricing. The Camry clearly has the Honda Accord in itscrosshairs. The lack of a diesel engine will remain the Camrys Achilles heel, though.Factfile:Engine: 2.5-litre-petrolPower/Torque: 167bhp/23kgmKerb weight: NAL/W/H: NAExpected: January 2012Price: Rs 20 lakhToyota Fortuner face-lift

Big, macho and reliable, the Fortuner has been a runaway success right from day one. Cosmetic updates comingsoon will ensure the Fortuner maintains this popularity. Going by changes to the Thai model, the SUVs chromefront grille will grow in width and the headlights will be new too. A restyled front bumper and larger air-intakescoop on the bonnet add to the new Fortuners mini-Land Cruiser looks. Clear-lens tail-lamps will be the onlychanges to the Fortuners rear while the interiors will receive darker faux wood detailing. The trusty 3 -litre D-4Ddiesel will continue but there is a possibility of an automatic transmission being added to the Fortuner line-up.Well know soon enough as the updated Fortuner will be launched at the Auto Expo in January 2012.

Factfile:Engine: 3-litre dieselPower/Torque: 168bhp/35kgmKerb weight: 1955kg

L/W/H: 4695/1840/1850mmExpected: January 2012Price: Rs 22 lakh

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Toyota Innova face-lift

Toyotas third launch at Auto Expo 2012 will be the face-lifted Innova. The MPV gets a substantially redesignedfront with a more upright grille that comes flanked by new headlights that now stretch over the fenders. Heavilymodified bumpers, a new rear numberplate section and re-profiled tail-lamps are other elements of the revamp.

Only minimal changes can be expected on the interiors which could include the addition of a new audio systemand different upholstery. The changes are largely intended to make the Innova more attractive to private carbuyers. Much of the Innovas success so far can be attributed to its popularity in the tour and taxi market. A smallupward price revision is likely to accompany this new launch.Factfile:Engines: 2-litre petrol, 2.5-litre dieselPower/Torque: 136bhp/18.6kgm, 102bhp/20.4kgmKerb weight: 1520-1590kgL/W/H: 4580/1770/1755mmExpected: January 2012Price: Rs 10-15 lakh

New Volkswagen Beetle

The latest Beetle has grown up, both in appearance and size. It retains many elements of the previous model andcontinues to look like an iteration of the original design classic. The interiors lose the flower vase now but theupward-opening glovebox does add a hint of vintage Beetle to the new dashboard. There is more space thanbefore too. India should get the 158bhp, 1.4-litre petrol engine and VW could import the Beetle with the 138bhp,2-litre diesel too.The Beetle is more a designer accessory than a rival to conventional hatchbacks, so expect heavyweight pricingfor this small car when its launched in late 2012.Factfile:Engines: 1.4-litre turbo-petrol, 2-litre dieselPower/Torque: 158bhp/24.5kgm,138bhp/32.6kgmKerb weight: 1360kg

L/W/H: 4278/2021/2048Expected: Late-2012Price: Rs 25 lakh

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New Volkswagen Touareg

There is an understated elegance to the Touareg that Volkswagen hopes Indian buyers will appreciate. Thesober cousin of the Porsche Cayenne, the Touareg will be launched at the Auto Expo 2012 and prices are likelyto start at Rs 55 lakh. You can identify the Touareg as a VW from a mile away and the styling on the whole isquite handsome. There is an abundance of space inside and quality should conform to VWs global standards.India is likely to receive a 3-litre diesel engine. Additionally, VW could bring a 3-litre petrol-electric hybrid to

promote its green credentials. Question is, will you pay so much for a VW?Factfile:Engines: 3-litre diesel V6,3-litre petrol hybridPower/Torque: 205bhp/40.8kgm,380bhp (including 46bhp electric)/59.1kgmKerb weight: 2297-2315kgL/W/H: 4795/1940/1709mmExpected: January 2012Price: Rs 55 lakh

Tata Manza CS

Cropping the boot to get a midsize saloon under the crucial four-metre mark to benefit from the excise duty reliefis a successful formula. Ask Tata Motors whose Indigo CS has been a big seller since launch. Tata would want toemulate this success with the Manza too and is said to be developing a sub- four-metre variant. If launched, theCS could use the Vistas 1.2 petrol and 1.3 diesel engines. Like the Indigo CS, pricing should be competitive.

Factfile:Engines: 1.2-litre petrol, 1.3-litre dieselPower/Torque: 65bhp/9.8kgm,74bhp/19.3kgmKerb weight: NAL/W/H: NA

Expected: Late-2012Price: Rs 5 lakh

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Skoda Fabia Scout

A rugged, go-anywhere hatchback sounds ideal for India and thats exactly what the Fabia Scout is. The Scout isin essence a Fabia that uses taller springs to give it more ground clearance. There is no 4x4 system, so off-roadability will be limited to rutted paths at best. The Indian car we have spied testing at Aurangabad will featuregravel and scratch-resistant cladding on the lower portion of the doors, wheel arches and rear bumper. A scruff

plate at the rear will also differentiate the Scout from the standard Fabia, though frontal styling will remainidentical.Engines will be shared with the Fabia. The Scout will be a niche product but if priced well could win itself asizeable fan following.

Factfile:Engines: 1.2-litre petrol, 1.6-litrepetrol, 1.2-litre dieselPower/Torque: 75bhp/11.2kgm,105bhp/15.6kgm, 75bhp/18.3kgmKerb weight: NAL/W/H: NAExpected: Mid-2012Price: Rs 6-7 lakh

Renault L58

Renaults new midsize car (codename: L58) will be to the Nissan Sunny what the Pulse is to the Micra. The carswill share the same platform, engines and, in all likelihood, the same interiors. However, exterior styling will bequite different. Engine options will include a 105bhp, 1.5-litre petrol and an 86bhp, 1.5-litre diesel. Renault willprice the car aggressively, so expect this exciting new saloon to cost between Rs 7 -9 lakh when it is launched inSeptember 2012.

Factfile:Engines: 1.5-litre petrol, 1.5-litre dieselPower/Torque: 97bhp/13.6kgm,85bhp/20.4kgmKerb weight: NAL/W/H: NA

Expected: September 2012Price: Rs 7-9 lakh

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Renault Pulse

Auto Expo 2012 will be the venue for the launch of Renaults first hatchback for India the Pulse, (earliercodenamed B58). The Pulse shares its platform with the Micra and will be built alongside it at Renault-NissansChennai plant. Dimensions are be near-identical to the Micra and likewise should weigh less than a tonne, whichwill reap huge dividends in terms of economy. While the two cars will share many components including engines,

the Pulse is easily identifiable as a Renault . However, the two cars share the dashboard design as tooling for anew dashboard entails considerable expense. Pricing should be at par with the Micra, so it will be interesting tosee if the Renault can eat into Nissan sales.

Factfile:Engines: 1.2-litre petrol, 1.5-litre dieselPower/Torque: 75bhp/10.6kgm,63bhp/16.3kgmKerb weight: NAL/W/H: NAExpected: January 2012Price: Rs 4.5-6 lakhRenault hatchback will be similar to the Nissan Micra.

New Porsche 911

It may not look radically different from its predecessor but this is the all-new sixth-generation 911. The car will goon sale in India soon after right-hand-drive sales commence globally. It will initially be sold in rear-wheel-driveCarrera (3.4 litre) and Carrera S (3.8 litre) coup guises. Cabriolet and four-wheel-drive variants will follow in2012, and pave the way for a range-topping 523bhp Turbo in 2013. The new 911 will sport a new seven-speedmanual gearbox a first for a series production road car. Apart from increased power and improved emissions,the new 911s chassis has also been worked on for improved ride and even better dynamics.

Factfile:Engines: 3.4-litre petrol,3.8-litre petrolPower/Torque: 345bhp/39.8kgm,394bhp/44.9kgmKerb weight: 1455-1470kgL/W/H: 4491/1808/1295mm

Expected: September 2012Price: From Rs 90 lakh

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Renault Duster

Renault wants a presence in each segment of the car market and will be ready with its Duster mini-SUV by Julynext year. The Duster shares its platform with the Logan (now Mahindra Verito), so should be able to take a fairbit of abuse. But this is no off-roader in the true sense and will be sold in India in a two-wheel-drive avatar only.Interior space is impressive and, just like on the Logan, ride quality is nice and supple too. The Duster will have

1.6 petrol (105bhp) and 1.5 diesel (90bhp) engines. A more powerful 107bhp 1.5 diesel with reduced turbo lagwill also be on offer. Expect prices to start at Rs 7 lakh for the base petrol-engined Duster.

Factfile:Engines: 1.6-litre petrol, 1.5-litrediesel, 1.5-litre dieselPower/Torque: 105bhp/15.1kgm,90bhp/20.4kgm, 107bhp/24.5kgmKerb weight: 1205kgL/W/H: 4315/1822/1695mmExpected: July 2012Price: Rs 7-8 lakh

Nissan NV200

With the NV200, Nissan wants to take the Toyota Innova head-on. The NV200 will be the first product of theNissan and Ashok Leyland joint venture to manufacture minivans in India. An eight-seater, the NV200 seatspassenger in a 2+3+3 layout. Styling is more commercial van than MPV and this appearance is not helped by theNV200s sliding rear doors. It will be powered by the same 105bhp 1.5 -litre K9K diesel that also does duty in theRenault Fluence. Pricing is likely to be in the range of Rs 7.5-12 lakh.

Factfile:Engine: 1.5-litre dieselPower/Torque: 105bhp/24.4kgmKerb weight: 1269kgL/W/H: 4400/1695/1860mm

Expected: Early 2012Price: Rs 7.5-12 lakh

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Mini Cooper

The epitome of retro cool, Mini is finally coming to India. Indian market dynamics might suggest small cars withpremium price tags wont work here but BMW-owned Mini thinks otherwise. The manufacturer sees a bigopportunity in India and is even carrying out feasibility studies for local assembly at BMWs Chennai plant, soprices will be far more affordable than VWs fully imported Beetle.Mini will kickstart its Indian venture with the launch of the Cooper hatchback. The design is classic Mini and the

retro interiors with the big dials look the part too. A four-seater only in name, minimal rear seat space makes thisthree-door hatchback best suited for two occupants.The Cooper hatchback will be followed by the convertible and also the interesting Countryman crossover. AllMinis will come with 1.6 petrol and diesel engines.Engines: 1.6-litre petrol, 1.6-litre dieselPower/Torque: 122bhp/16.3kgm,112bhp/25.5kgmKerb weight: 1165kgL/W/H: 3723/1913/1407mmExpected: Mid-2012Price: Rs 12 lakh

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster

If the SLS AMG coup wasnt extreme enough, Mercedes-Benz has just revealed the SLS AMG Roadster, whichis scheduled for an India launch towards the end of 2012. The Roadster loses the coups gullwing doors andinstead features new frameless doors with conventional hinges. Its three-layer roof comes with a glass rearwindow and can be opened on the fly at speeds upto 50kph. Weight gain has been well restricted with theRoadster weighing just 40kg more than its coup sibling. Performance from the 563bhp 6.2-litre V8 will bestaggering. The figures say it all 0-100kph in a claimed 3.8sec and a top speed of 321kph. The Roadster wontcome cheap though.

Factfile:Engine: 6.2-litre petrol V8Power/Torque: 563bhp/66.3kgmKerb weight: 1735kg

L/W/H: 4638/1261/2075mmExpected: Late-2012Price: Rs 2.4 crore

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Mercedes Benz M-Class

To Join Mercedes line-up will be the smart new M-class SUV. The lines are softer, the eye-like headlights withtheir LED detailing are pleasing, and the whole look is less brutish than before. A stylised cabin with Merc-typicalluxury bits make the interiors a comfortable place to be in. The dash design in particular is a huge improvementover the staid styling of the old cars. Ride quality should be a huge improvement and Mercs Airmatic air

suspension could be offered as an option to discerning customers with deep pockets. As with the current car,Mercedes is likely to offer just a single engine the 3-litre V6 diesel in ML 350 CDI guise. A raft of updates willsee the engine improve in both efficiency and power which will see a bump up to 258bhp. Prices are likely to seea rise too when the car is launched in mid-2012.

Factfile:Engine: 3-litre dieselPower/Torque: 258bhp/63.2kgmKerb weight: 2175kgL/W/H: 4804/1926/1796mmExpected: End-2012Price: Rs 60 lakh

Mercedes-Benz B-Class

The latest B-Class is an important model for India. Why? It is the first car to be launched off Mercedes-Benzsnew front-wheel- drive (MFA) platform which will form the basis of a new generation of smaller (read cheaper)Mercs. At 4.3 metres long, the B-class is part- large hatch and part-mini-MPV. Interior packaging is good, sothere will be ample space inside. The dashboard borrows elements from the SLS AMG and the CLS, adding tothe luxurious cabin ambience.A 1.8-litre diesel and a new 1.6-litre turbo-petrol will power the B-class and the transmissions could include aseven-speed dual-clutch box. Priced from around Rs 18 lakh, the B-class will be the most affordable Merc inIndia. But will choosy Indian customers take to the cars unusual body style?

Factfile:

Engines: 1.8-litre diesel, 1.6-litre turbo-petrolPower/Torque: 135bhp/30.5kgm, 156bhp/25.5kgmKerb weight: 1395-1475kg

L/W/H: 4359/1786/1557mmExpected: Late 2012Price: Rs 18-22 lakh

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Maruti Ertiga

Marutis first crack at the MPV segment will be in the form of the all-new Ertiga, with badging on this spied carrevealing the name. Viewed from the front, the Ertiga looks similar to the Ritz hatchback while the peeled-backheadlights that stretch to the pronounced wheel arches are reminiscent of the new Swift. The front bumper stylingis quite sporty with a large air inlet and enclosures for the fog lights.

Tail styling looks rather generic though. The Ertiga brief was to seat seven people, which explains this mini-MPVs 4.2-metre length and 2740mm wheelbase. An interesting detail worth a mention is the corrugated roof foradded strength. Maruti has made all efforts to make its new mini-MPV as car-like as possible and in fact thedashboard and steering wheel have been carried over from the Swift. Lighter materials do their part in giving theinteriors a more premium look. The Ertiga wont have Innova levels of space but middle and last row occupantswill get roof-mounted AC vents for improved cooling. Oddly, climate control will not be offered even on the top-end ZXi and ZDi variants.

Engine options will include the popular 1.3-litre Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT) diesel from the SX4. Suzuki willalso debut its latest and largest engine from the K-series family on the MPV. Called the K14, this 1372cc VVTengine delivers a decent 95bhp. We expect this front-wheel drive MPV to exhibit almost car-like manners which

will be integral to its appeal. The Ertiga will be competitively priced in the Rs 6-9 lakh range when launched atAuto Expo 2012.

Factfile:Engines: 1.3-litre diesel, 1.4-litre petrolPower/Torque: 90bhp/20.39kgm, 95bhp/13kgmKerb weight: NAL/W/H: NAExpected: January 2012Price: Rs 6-9 lakh

New Maruti 800

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Say hello to the successor to the iconic Maruti 800. Marutis low-cost car and answer to the Tata Nano andHyundai Eon is in the final stages of testing and should go on sale within the first half of 2012.

To keep costs down, the new car is based on the existing Alto platform and will share a lot of running gear with itssibling. Powering the car will be the 796cc three-cylinder motor from the old 800, although it will be thoroughlyupdated to meet Bharat Stage V emission norms that will come into effect in 2015. A new 800cc engine couldreplace this motor post-2015.

The cars design is fairly basic and there are a lot of flat panels as these are cheaper to make. We expect theinteriors to be quite basic too though the slightly taller proportions of the Alto should make the car marginallymore spacious and comfortable than the original 800. Maruti is aiming for a sub-Rs 2 lakh price for the baseversion of the car. Tata should be worried.

Factfile:

Engine: 0.8-litre petrolPower/Torque: NAKerb weight: NAL/W/H: NAExpected: Early 2012

Price: Rs 1.9-2.5 lakh

New Maruti Swift Dzire

Maruti hit the bulls-eye with the exclusive-to-India Swift Dzire. The next-generation Dzire that is based on thenew Swift could go on to become an even bigger success, thanks to an estimated Rs 30,000 reduction in prices.The price reduction will be courtesy the cars length being trimmed to just less than four metres to qualify it as asmall car and take advantage of a lower rate of excise duty.

The current Dzire is 4160mm long and the new one has to be 160mm shorter at the least. To manage this, thenew Dzire will get an incredibly short boot. While the rear section does not sync all that well with the rest of the

car, the execution is far better than the original Dzires. However, boot space, a highlight onthe current Dzire, will be significantly less than before. Engines are likely to be shared with the new Swift. A full-size saloon is also understood to be under development.

Factfile:

Engines: 1.2-litre petrol, 1.3-litre dieselPower/Torque: 86bhp/11.6kgm,74bhp/19.4kgmKerb weight: NAL/W/H: NAExpected: January 2012Price: Rs 5-7 lakh

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Mahindra Mini-Xylo (sub-4 metres)

The governments small car excise rebate regulations have seriously brought out the creative side of Indianengineers. The Mini-Xylo illustrated here is a fine example of this ingenuity. Built on a shortened Xylo chassis, theUV gets a redesigned tail with a shorter rear overhang to help keep length under the crucial four-metre mark. Asa result, the Mini-Xylo will almost definitely lose the third row of seats. Elements like the dashboard and interiortrim are likely to be carried over from the standard Xylo. With an engine cap of 1.5 li tres for diesel small cars, theMini-Xylo will use a three-cylinder version of the larger Xylos 2.5-litre engine. Bore and stroke will also bereduced to keep displacement under 1500cc. Four-wheel drive will be an option too on the Mini-Xylo.

Likely to be priced between Rs 4-5 lakh, this car could give hatchbacks a run for their money.A lot depends on how its positioned, though.

Factfile:Engine: 1.5-litre dieselPower/Torque: NAKerb weight: NAL/W/H: NAExpected: Early 2012Price: Rs 4-5 lakh

Mahindra Verito (sub-4 metres)

Another addition to the sub-four-metre brigade will be the shortened Mahindra Verito. To do so, Mahindraengineers have chopped off a large chunk of the boot section but we hear that the redesign works well. Spaciousinteriors, solid build and a proven diesel engine come together to make this a sensible small car to buy. Expectkeen pricing when the smaller Verito goes on sale this December.

Factfile:

Engine: 1.5-litre dieselPower/Torque: 65bhp/16.3kgmKerb weight: NAL/W/H: NA

Expected: End-2011Price: Rs 4.8 lakh

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Mahindra-Ssangyong Rexton II

Mahindra will follow up the Korando with another SUV from the Ssangyong stable the Rexton II. Briefly put,the SUV is based on the first-generation Mercedes-Benz M- class and can seat seven passengers.

Power is courtesy a 161bhp, 2.7-litre f ive-cylinder turbo-diesel engine. An old-school body-on-frame chassis

means it wont be the most exciting car to drive but permanent all-wheel drive and a high ground clearanceshould give it good off-road capabilities.

M&M will assemble the Rexton at its Chakan plant and is likely to price the big SUV close to rivals like the ToyotaFortuner.

Factfile:

Power/Torque: 161bhp/34.7kgmKerb weight: 1966-2101kgL/W/H: 4720/1870/1760mmExpected: Late-2012Price: Rs 19-21 lakh

Mahindra Reva NXR

The Reva NXR seems to have become a permanent fixture on our annual new car list. We expect the car tofinally hit Indian roads this year. A three-door, four-seater family hatchback, the car will be sold in two versionsthe NXR City and the NXR. The cheaper NXR City that comes with a lead acid battery has a range of 80km percharge while its 80kph top speed should help it keep up with traffic. More powerful lithium ion batteries, a rangeof 160km per charge and a claimed top speed of 104kph makes the NXR the more practical of the two, but it willalso be the more expensive variant. Trouble is where are the charging points?

Factfile:

Engine: Electric motorPower/Torque: NAKerb weight: 900kg/850kg (NXR)

L/W/H: NAExpected: Mid-2012Price: Rs 3.5-4.5 lakh

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Mahindra-Ssangyong Korando

The Korando is the first SsangYong product Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) will be launching in India after itsacquisition of the Korean company earlier this year. The Korando may not break new ground in terms of stylingbut it is quite a smart SUV. Although strictly a five-seater, its spacious interiors will work to its favour. Interiorquality is far superior to all Mahindras so far, and rightfully the Korando will be positioned above M&Ms own SUVline-up.

The Korando features a monocoque chassis (a first for SsangYong) but from our drive earlier in the year(January 2011) we can tell you the SUVs dynamics are just about average.

A 173bhp, 2-litre turbo-diesel will power the Korando. Pricing will be competitive with an expected base price ofRs 15 lakh when the car goes on sale in early-2012.

Factfile:

Engine: 2-litre dieselPower/Torque: 173bhp/36.7kgmKerb weight: 1672-1692kgL/W/H: 4410/1830/1675mm

Expected: Mid-2012Price: Rs 15-17 lakh

New Hyundai Sonata

The current-gen Sonata Transform failed to strike the right chord with customers. Hyundai wants to change thatwith this all-new car that is also known as the i45 in some markets.

The new Sonatas swoopy lines make this the best-looking Hyundai to date and give the car real presence. Thestory is no different on the inside either. The cockpit-themed interiors look really sporty and importantly there isacres of space, especially at the back.

We expect three engine options for the car a 2-litre petrol, a 2.4-litre direct injection petrol and possibly a 2.2-litre diesel. Enthusiasts may be disappointed by the cars dynamics but as a comfy saloon, the new Sonata

should work just fine.

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Factfile:

Factfile:

Engines: 2-litre petrol, 2.4-litre petrol, 2.2-litre diesel

Power/Torque: 162bhp/20.2kgm,198bhp/25.4kgm, 194bhp/44.4kgmKerb weight: 1479-1528kgL/W/H: 4820/1835/1470mmExpected: Early 2012Price: Rs 16-18 lakh

New Hyundai Elantra

Remove the Hyundai badge on the grille and youll be convinced youre looking at a European car. Its this imagewhich the Korean carmaker reckons will translate into strong sales for its stylish Civic challenger. The design ismodern Hyundai with the Elantras smooth lines flowing into each other yet managing to lend the car anaggressive look. Again, interior styling is far from ordinary with a striking fascia that is dominated by a multimedia

screen. Smart packaging means space should be as good or perhaps better than the competition. Enginesshould include a 147bhp, 1.8-litre petrol and a new 1.8-litre diesel. In typical Hyundai fashion, the saloon shouldcome very well specced so the Elantra will impress on the VFM scale too.

Factfile:

Engines: 1.8-litre petrol,1.8-litre dieselPower/Torque:147bhp/18.2kgm,140bhp/NAKerb weight: NAL/W/H: 4530/1775/1445mmExpected: June 2012

Price: Rs 12-15 lakh

New Honda CR-V

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Honda has recently unveiled the new CR-V. As seen from the pictures, styling of the new car is a departure fromthe current model with the new model looking more aggressive.

The new CR-V is built on an all-new platform which should further improve the CR-Vs renowned car-like

handling. Engine details have not been announced but the addition of a diesel engine in 2013 is likely.

The current CR-V is imported in India in fully built up form, which has meant prices have jumped over the yearsthanks to an appreciating yen. Good then that the new CR-V will be assembled locally, which means prices willbe more Honda Accord than BMW 3-series.

Factfile:

Engine: 2.4-litre petrol*Power/Torque: NAKerb weight: NAL/W/H: NAExpected: Late 2012Price: Rs 20 lakh

New Honda Civic

The latest Civic is out and its headed for an India launch in mid-2012. The design is more evolutionary thanrevolutionary (unlike the earlier car). In fact, the lines have been toned down which should make the saloonappeal to a wider customer base. However, the interiors are just as radical as before and feature a dual level splitinstrument console.

The new Civic should feature an updated version of the 1.8-litre, SOHC I-4 engine with improved refinement,emissions, economy and performance. Peak power will be around 140bhp. A diesel engine is also on the cardsbut is unlikely to make it to India before late-2013. Having tasted blood with its aggressive pricing for the Brio and

Jazz, expect a surprise sticker price for this model too.

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Factfile:

Engine: 1.8-litre petrolPower/Torque: 140bhp/17.7kgmKerb weight: 1198-1254kgL/W/H: 4503/1753/1435mmExpected: Mid-2012Price: Rs 14-16 lakh

HM Ambassador (sub-4 metre)

If you thought the Ambassador was dead, think again. A new pick-up variant for the rural markets has just hit theroads and now Hindustan Motors (HM) wants to cash in on excise benefits extended to sub-four-metre cars. Yes,a sub-four-metre Ambassador is on its way.The length reduction is courtesy a shorter humped boot section, reminiscent of the original Amby

of the 1950s. The 1.5-litre diesel engine that currently powers the car will be re-tuned for improved performanceand to meet newer emission norms. A CNG option will also be offered. Expect the car to cost Rs 30,000 less thanthe standard Ambassador. Love it or hate it, the Amby is here to stay.

Factfile:

Engine: 1.5-litre dieselPower/Torque: NAKerb weight: NAL/W/H: NAExpected: Early-2012Price: Rs 4.8 lakh

Ford EcoSport

Ford India has got an ace up its sleeve with the upcoming Eco Sport. Codenamed B515, this sub-four-metre-longmini-SUV will qualify as a small car to avail of a substantial 12 percent saving in excise duty.

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The SUV will be based on Fords global B platform that also underpins the latest Fiesta, so ride and handling willbe nothing short of special. Styling will be pure SUV. Also, as the spare wheel is not considered in thesmall carregulations when measuring body length, it will be mounted on the tailgate rather than under the body. Thisallows luggage space to be used more effectively.

The Eco Sport is likely to come with an upgraded version of the Figos 1.2-litre petrol engine and the 90bhp 1.5diesel from the new Fiesta. Pricing will be the key to the Eco Sports success and Ford is working towards anaggressive price of Rs 6 lakh for the base model.

Factfile:

Engines: 1.2-litre petrol, 1.5-litre dieselPower/Torque: NA, 88.7bhp/20.8kgmKerb weight: NAL/W/H: NAExpected: Early 2012Price: Rs 6-7.5 lakh

Ford Endeavour

Ford Thailand has taken the wraps off the new Ranger pick-up that will form the basis of the all-new EndeavourSUV headed for India in late 2012. The design conforms with Fords global design language, so the final SUVversion will look a whole lot more modern than the current dated Indian model.

The interiors are a step up too with a smarter fascia and use of better materials. Thai Rangers will be sold with anew 148bhp 2.2-litre TDCi diesel engine and this motor could replace the 2.5-litre powerplant currently on theEndeavour. The new engine comes mated to six-speed manual and automatic transmissions which may be India-bound as well. A price hike seems imminent but Ford could offset this by offering the Endeavour loaded withfeatures.

Ford Fiesta hatchback

There has been a lot of interest in the new Fiesta hatchback of late and if our spy picture of a test car is anythingto go by, then Ford seems to have finally decided to manufacture the model in India.

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The hatchback is identical to the saloon up till the B-pillar. Thereafter, the smartly executed hatch section givesthe car better proportions than the Fiesta saloon. The interiors will be shared with the saloon as will the pair of1.5-litre petrol and diesel engines. While it will be positioned as a premium hatchback, pricing will still be critical. Ifpriced above Rs 6.5 lakh, the Fiesta hatchback could have the same fate as the Honda Jazz when it was firstlaunched.

Factfile:

Engines: 1.5-litre petrol, 1.5-litre dieselPower/Torque: 107bhp/14.2kgm,88.7bhp/20.8kgmKerb weight: 1153kgL/W/H: 3950/1722/1475mmExpected: Mid-2012 Price: Rs 6.5 lakhFiat Punto Evo

Fiat is ready with a set of cosmetic upgrades for its Punto hatchback. To be called the Punto Evo, the car willreceive a new front bumper with integrated foglamps, a new front grille and slightly reworked headlights. The tail-lights will also be tweaked and there will be a redesigned rear bumper too. The European Evo features a new

dashboard though it remains to be seen if the Indian car will get this. The current engine options are l ikely tocontinue though we expect a small price increment across the range.

Factfile:

Engines: 1.2 litre-petrol, 1.4 litre-petrol, 1.3-litre-diesel, 1.3-litre dieselPower/Torque: 67bhp/9.76kgm, 89bhp/ 11.67kgm, 75bhp/20kgm, 90bhp/21.3kgmKerb weight: 1090-1145kgL/W/H: NA/1687/1495mm

New Force Trax

Some numbers first. The Mahindra Bolero sells on average 7,000 units a month. On the other hand, its directcompetitor in the utility vehicle market, the Force Trax sells about 700 units each month. Force Motors is now

readying a new version which should make the Trax a more serious alternative to the Bolero. Smarter styling andbetter interiors will lead the list of changes. The new Trax will also get the OM616 engine that features a two-valve CRDi system. This BS IV-compliant motor will allow the Trax to be sold in metros as well.

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Factfile:

Engine: 2.6-litre dieselPower/Torque: NAKerb weight: NAL/W/H: NAExpected: Mid-2012Price: Rs 5.5-6.5 lakh

Force MPV

Force Motors is set to follow up its first passenger vehicle, the recently launched Force One, with a new MPV.The MPV in question is the Viano that will be manufactured under license from Mercedes-Benz.

The MPV will, in all likelihood, be an eight-seater making it an attractive option for large families and touroperators. The Force Motors MPV is likely to feature the same Mercedes-Benz licensed OM611 engine asemployed on the Force One. This 2.2-litre common-rail diesel engine produces 139bhp at 3800rpm. Power willbe transmitted to the rear wheels (just as on the Viano) via a five-speed gearbox.

Prices are not known yet but we expect the van to sport a price tag between Rs 10-15 lakh.

Factfile:

Engine: 2.2-litre dieselPower/Torque: 139bhp/32.7kgmKerb weight: NAL/W/H: 4763/1338/2253mmExpected: Late 2012Price: Rs 10-15 lakh

Chevrolet Sail hatchback

Simply put, small cars equal big sales. And this small car has the potential to seriously put the wind in Chevroletssales (pun intended)! The Sail hatchback that will be launched before the saloon looks striking whichever angleyou look at it. The design is well executed and, like the saloon, its spacious interiors will be a selling point. It is

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likely to share the Beats 1.2-litre petrol engine and also get the 1.3-litre Fiat Multijet within a year of launch.Costs will be kept low thanks to the car sharing many components with the saloon. A sub-Rs 4 lakh base pricewould make it a very enticing option.

Factfile:

Engine: 1.2-litre petrolPower/Torque: 79bhp/10.91kgmKerb weight: 1070kgL/W/H: 3947/1690/1503mmExpected: April 2012Price: Rs 4-6 lakhChevrolet Sail Saloon

The Sail is Chevrolets weapon for a fresh assault in the midsize segment. Designed and developed in China byGM and SAIC, the Sail looks every bit a modern Chevy. The proportions are nice and styling is sharp all over.Interior space is a highlight and that should give it an edge over smaller rivals like the Maruti Swift Dzire.

Power will come courtesy a 1.4-litre petrol engine producing 102bhp, and eventually the 1.3-litre Fiat-sourcedMultijet diesel. Interestingly, the Sail platform has its roots in the same Opel Corsa that was on sale in India till2006; so the car should not be too expensive for Chevrolet to produce. Prices are likely to be affordable, ranging

from Rs 6-7.5 lakh.

Factfile:

Engine: 1.4-litre petrolPower/Torque: 102bhp/13.35kgmKerb weight: 1070kgL/W/H: 4249/1690/1505mmExpected: September 2012Price: Rs 6-7.5 lakh

Chevrolet CN- 100

Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC) that picked up a 50 percent stake in GM India last year has bigplans for India. Among the products headed here is the Wuling-made CN-100 MPV. The CN-100 may not score

too high on styling but its trump card will be its versatility. Likely to be sold as a seven-seater, its second and thirdrow seats can also be folded flat or removed altogether. Powering the MPV will be a 1.4-litre petrol engine thatwill be joined by the Fiat-sourced 1.3 Multijet diesel in 2013. The CN-100 will be manufactured at General Motors

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Talegaon plant and will be sold under the Chevrolet brand name. With no diesel option available until 2013, GMwill have to price the CN-100 very competitively to attract buyers. Dont be surprised if this one comes with a sub-Rs 6 lakh price tag.

Factfile:

Engine: 1.4-litre petrolPower/Torque: 102bhp/13.35kgmKerb weight: 1205kgL/W/H: 4305/1680/1750mmExpected: July 2012Price: Rs 6 lakh

Chevrolet Captiva

Chevrolets versatile SUV has just been given a face-lift and looks all the better for it. An imposing split grille inline with Chevrolets new family look and double-barrel headlamps are the most prominent changes to theCaptivas styling while clear lens tail-lamps complete the makeover.

The seven-seater will also benefit from revised interiors. On the engine front, the 2-litre motor is set to be

replaced by a new 2.2-litre diesel unit. Peak power will see a spike from 148bhp at present to 184bhp on the newengine. Prices are likely to increase by around Rs 1 lakh when the new model is launched early next year.

Factfile:

Engine: 2.2-litre dieselPower/Torque: 184bhp/40.78kgmKerb weight: 1878kgL/W/H: 4673/1879/1727mmExpected: January 2012Price: Rs 22-24 lakh

Chevrolet Cruze (upgraded)

Originally launched in 2009, Chevrolets stylish Cruze saloon is all set to get its first round of upgrades shortly.

Firstly, the Cruzes 2-litre, Z-series common-rail diesel engine will be updated and will now output an impressive163bhp, a decent 13bhp more than the current engine. Torque will also increase, so performance will be evenbetter than before. The updated Cruze may also feature subtle external styling tweaks.

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On the inside, Chevrolet will be redesigning the rear seat to improve headroom, a small but important revisionthat would make the Cruze all the more attractive to chauffeur-driven saloon buyers.

Factfile:

Engines: 2-litre diesel

Power/Torque: NAKerb weight: NA L/W/H: NA

New BMW 3-series

BMWs big launch for 2012 will be the new 3-series. Codenamed the F30, it has been revealed recently withIndian sales to commence soon after right-hand-drive versions are made available towards the middle of 2012.The new 3-series is longer and wider and it bears a strong resemblance to the 5-series. The larger dimensionspoint to a roomier cabin, which addresses a major shortcoming on the current car. Engines are likely to be carriedforward from the current model, albeit with improved efficiency and more power. BMW plans to set up an engineplant in India, which should allow the carmaker to price the Three more aggressively. Will BMW soften the new3-series to enhance comfort or will the new car retain the current models thrilling driving dynamics? Time will tell.

Factfile:

Engines: 2-litre petrol, 3-litre petrol,2-litre dieselPower/Torque: NAKerb weight: NA L/W/H: NAExpected: End-2012 Price: Rs 22-35 lakh

Audi S6/S7/S8

Think of Audis S cars as the sportier cousins of the normal line-up with the S variants more powerful enginesand slightly extroverted design details being the key differentiators here. India will get the entire S range thatincludes the S4, S5, S6, S7 and S8 in 2012. The new S6 that was launched at the Frankfurt Motor Show comeswith a 414bhp, 4-litre twin-turbo V8. Performance will be entertaining, to say the least. Another new addition to

the S line is the S8. Marrying sports car performance to limo-like luxury, the S8 shares its engine with the S6, butpower is an even higher 513bhp. Pricing is yet not known, but expect these S cars to cost considerably morethan the current range-topping variants for each model. However, the S5 will be a cheaper option to the more

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powerful RS5. S6 will spearhead Audis S lines entry into India. S8 is sports car and limo rolled intoone. . Sportier petrol S7 will join diesel A7 sibling.

Factfile:Engine: 4-litre twin-turbo V8.Power/Torque: 414bhp/ 56.13kgmKerb weight: 1895kgL/W/H: 4931/1874/NA mmExpected: Early 2012Price: Rs 85 lakh

Audi Q3

It may look like a shrunken Q5, but Audis latest mini-SUV has a distinct personality of its own. When launched inmid-2012, the Q3 will be the most affordable Audi in India. However, there is nothing cheap about the Q3squality which is comparable to Audis line-up of saloons and larger SUVs. There is reasonable space for fouradults inside while Audis Quattro all-wheel-drive system should also ensure you can get a bit adventurous onweekend excursions. In India, the entry level, front-wheel-drive Q3 will be sold with a 176bhp, 2-litre turbo dieselwhich will form the majority of its sales. However, Audi will first launch the Q3 with four-wheel-drive or the Quattrosystem. A 211bhp 2-litre TFSI turbo-petrol engine will also be a part of the model mix. Prices are l ikely to start at

Rs 25 lakh. We cant wait!

Factfile:Engines: 2-litre turbo-petrol, 2-litre dieselPower/Torque: 211bhp/30kgm,176bhp 38.7kgmKerb weight: 1565-1585kgL/W/H: 4385/1831/1590mmExpected: Mid-2012Price: Rs 25-35 lakh

Audi A4 face-lift

The A4 will get a slight nip and tuck by end-2011. Expect A6-like tapering headlights, LED tail-lamps and restyledbumpers as also a new MMI multimedia interface. The engines should be carried over from the current carthough the range-topping 3.2-litre FSI could be replaced by the A6s smashing supercharged 3-litre V6 TFSI

engine.

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Factfile:

Engines: 1.8-litre petrol, 2-litre petrol, 2-litre diesel, 3-litre dieselPower/Torque: 160bhp/25.5kgm, 179bhp/32.6kgm,140bhp/32.6kgm, 240bhp/51kgmKerb weight: 1610kgL/W/H: 4703/1826/1427mmExpected: November 2011Price: Rs 30-38 lakh