Car News - Latest Indian Car News & Views | CarWalehttp://www.carwale.com/news/Latest news updates on Indian car industry, expert views and interviews exclusively on CarWale.Copyright 2012 CarWaleCarWale RSS Generator7542<![CDATA[New Renault Fluence – is it better than the Corolla, the Cruze and the Laura?]]>http://www.carwale.com/news/7542-new-renault-fluence-is-it-better-than-the-corolla-the-cruze-and-the-laura.htmlhttp://www.carwale.com/news/7542-new-renault-fluence-is-it-better-than-the-corolla-the-cruze-and-the-laura.htmlCarWale Team5/23/2011 5:30:00 PM8905http://img.carwale.com/ec/7542/img/m/7542_mhttp://img.carwale.com/ec/7542/img/m/7542_lIn a market dominated by the Japanese (read Corolla Altis) and increasingly the German/Czech combo of Skoda and Volkswagen, there’s finally a new kid on the block that brings with it a fresh take to the segment. To begin with, the just launched Renault Fluence has a design and style that’s very different from what’s currently available. It might not be pretty in the conventional sense, but it sure is attractive. And honestly, it’s a car you would like looking at every morning when you come down to take it to work.
It’s also refreshing on the inside, and packs in a lot of comfort features as well. The petrol gets climate control, keyless start and cruise control among other things. The Fluence is also spacious and has a comfortable ride. But the question is how does it compete with the current best seller, the Toyota Corolla Altis as well as other cars that are doing well in the segment, namely the Chevrolet Cruze and the Skoda Laura?

]]>In a market dominated by the Japanese (read Corolla Altis) and increasingly the German/Czech combo of Skoda and Volkswagen, there’s finally a new kid on the block that brings with it a fresh take to the segment. To begin with, the just launched Renault Fluence has a design and style that’s very different from what’s currently available. It might not be pretty in the conventional sense, but it sure is attractive. And honestly, it’s a car you would like looking at every morning when you come down to take it to work.
It’s also refreshing on the inside, and packs in a lot of comfort features as well. The petrol gets climate control, keyless start and cruise control among other things. The Fluence is also spacious and has a comfortable ride. But the question is how does it compete with the current best seller, the Toyota Corolla Altis as well as other cars that are doing well in the segment, namely the Chevrolet Cruze and the Skoda Laura? Here’s how –

Quick comparisons

Fluence vs Corolla –

Between the Corolla and the Fluence, the Fluence is better looking. It also has plusher looking insides and though it might not have a lot more equipment compared to the Corolla, it still feels more solidly built. The ride quality is better on the Fluence and it’s also pretty easy to drive – the front visibility is good and the steering is light to use too.
As for the Corolla, it is the most proved product in this segment. And honestly, one can’t really go wrong with it. Moreover, apart from feeling as solid as the Fluence, the Corolla is pretty close to the Renault in almost every other area.

Price Index - Avg Ex-Showroom Price      

Petrol
Toyota Corolla Altis 1.8 J          - Rs. 10,45,292
Toyota Corolla Altis 1.8G          - Rs. 12,16,296
Toyota Corolla Altis 1.8G L        - Rs. 13,53,624
Renault Fluence                              - Rs. 14,40,000
Toyota Corolla Altis 1.8V L AT    - Rs. 14,54,557

Diesel
Toyota Corolla Altis J Diesel    - Rs. 11,39,909
Renault Fluence                           - Rs. 12,99,000
Toyota Corolla Altis G Diesel    - Rs. 13,24,030
Toyota Corolla Altis GL Diesel   -Rs. 14,28,698

Fluence vs Cruze –
The Cruze, obviously, is only available with a diesel engine. So, if you want petrol, the Fluence is the default choice. However, if it’s a diesel you want, the Cruze has a lot going for it. It has the more powerful engine here, which is fun to drive. It also then has the option of a manual and an automatic gearbox, while the Fluence is only sold with a manual.
The Cruze is also a style icon, it has more road presence and when on the move, it looks purposeful. It’s a car that conveys youth for its owner, way more than the Fluence. However, it’s not as spacious as the Fluence. And the Fluence also blends the comfortable ride and good handling balance better than the Cruze. And as with the Corolla, the Fluence feels better put together than the Cruze.

Price Index - Avg Ex-Showroom Price      

Petrol
Chevrolet Cruze LT    - Rs. 12,03,006
Chevrolet Cruze LTZ   - Rs. 13,60,315
Renault Fluence           - Rs. 14,40,000


Diesel
Renault Fluence                       - Rs. 12,99,000
Chevrolet Cruze LTZ AT        -Rs. 14,44,688
 
Fluence vs Laura –
The Laura might not be the selling car in this segment, but it sure is the best product. It’s built like a tank, has a lovely combination of ride and handling, and has spacious interiors and a fantastically large boot. It also has the better engines here, both petrol and diesel. Not only are these great fun to drive hard, these work well even for those who are not car nuts.
But apples to apples, the Laura just isn’t as well equipped as the Fluence. The Fluence in comparison shouts value for money when compared to the Laura and that we believe is a big advantage for the Renault. The thing is you get European built cars in both the Laura and the Fluence. You also get spacious sedans with comfortable seats if you choose either. And finally you get decently high snob value with both. Of the two though, the odds seem in the Fluence’s favour, mainly on account on its better pricing.

Price Index - Ex-Showroom Price      

Petrol
Skoda Laura 2009 Classic 1.8 TSI         - Rs. 12,57,771
Skoda Laura 2009 Ambiente 1.8 TSI     - Rs. 13,62,852
Renault Fluence             - Rs. 14,40,000

Diesel
Renault Fluence             - Rs. 12,99,000
Skoda Laura 2009 Ambiente 2.0 TDI             - Rs. 14,08,465
Skoda Laura 2009 Ambiente 2.0 TDI AT        - Rs. 15,20,802
Skoda Laura 2009 Elegance 2.0 TDI             - Rs. 15,59,517
Skoda Laura 2009 Elegance 2.0 TDI   AT      - Rs. 16,59,994
Skoda Laura 2009 L&K 2.0 TDI AT               - Rs. 18,40,158

]]>7444<![CDATA[Chevrolet launches the all-new Cruze with Jet Black Interiors]]>http://www.carwale.com/news/7444-chevrolet-launches-the-allnew-cruze-with-jet-black-interiors.htmlhttp://www.carwale.com/news/7444-chevrolet-launches-the-allnew-cruze-with-jet-black-interiors.htmlCarWale Team4/8/2011 4:31:00 PM6134http://img.carwale.com/ec/7444/img/m/7444_mhttp://img.carwale.com/ec/7444/img/m/7444_lChevrolet launched the all new Cruze today. The new Cruze gets jet black interiors with titanium stiching. The Cruze will get the 2.0-litre VCDi diesel powertrain and a 6-speed automatic transmission. The car will be priced at Rs. 11,92,605 (ex-showroom Delhi).

]]>Chevrolet launched the all new Cruze today. The new Cruze gets jet black interiors with titanium stiching. The Cruze will get the 2.0-litre VCDi diesel powertrain and a 6-speed automatic transmission. The car will be priced at Rs. 11,92,605 (ex-showroom Delhi)

The Cruze will be available in a host of colours namely Atlantis Blue, Olmpic White, Velvet Red, Caviar Black, Diamond White, Sand Drift Grey and Switchblade Silver.

]]>7377<![CDATA[Chevrolet unveils the Cruze Hatch at Geneva Motorshow 2011. Car likely to come to India.]]>http://www.carwale.com/news/7377-chevrolet-unveils-the-cruze-hatch-at-geneva-motorshow-2011-car-likely-to-come-to-india.htmlhttp://www.carwale.com/news/7377-chevrolet-unveils-the-cruze-hatch-at-geneva-motorshow-2011-car-likely-to-come-to-india.htmlCarWale Team3/4/2011 1:34:00 PM3614http://img.carwale.com/ec/7377/img/m/7377_mhttp://img.carwale.com/ec/7377/img/m/7377_lGeneral Motors had already mentioned its plans to get 6 new cars in the next two years in India and it recently unveiled the Cruze hatch concept car at the Geneva Motorshow. The company's first hatch the SR-V did not really make an impact in the hatchback segment. But the company has learnt from its mistakes and that can be clearly seen in the success of the Beat.

]]>General Motors had already mentioned its plans to get 6 new cars in the next two years in India and it recently unveiled the Cruze hatch concept car at the Geneva Motorshow. The company's first hatch the SR-V did not really make an impact in the hatchback segment. But the company has learnt from its mistakes and that can be clearly seen in the success of the Beat.

With the company going local as regards production of engines and cars, it is clear that they are studying the consumer wants. This local setup will help the Chevrolet get cars here like the Cruze hatch. The sedan version of the Cruze is already a hit in India and it satisfies the Indian consumers taste of a smart, fast, muscular, luxury sedan. We definitely hope to see the hatch come to India. Priced anything between 5-6 lakhs will surely mean the nemesis of the other premium hatches.

]]>7013<![CDATA[General Motors Indias November 2010 Sales grow by 18 percent ]]>http://www.carwale.com/news/7013-general-motors-indias-november-2010-sales-grow-by-18-percent-at-8376-units.htmlhttp://www.carwale.com/news/7013-general-motors-indias-november-2010-sales-grow-by-18-percent-at-8376-units.htmlCarWale Team12/1/2010 6:36:33 PM2376http://img.carwale.com/ec/7013/img/m/7013_mhttp://img.carwale.com/ec/7013/img/m/7013_lGeneral Motors India registered a growth of 18% in sales in November 2010, compared to the corresponding period last year. It sold 8376 units in November 2010 against 7118 units sold in November, 2009.  The November 2010 sales comprised 2786 units of the Chevrolet Spark, 2547 units of Chevrolet Beat, 1476 units of the Chevrolet Tavera, 617 units of the Chevrolet Cruze, 297 Units of Chevrolet Aveo, 291 units of Chevrolet Aveo U-VA, 262 units of Chevrolet Optra and 100 units of the Chevrolet Captiva.  

]]>General Motors India registered a growth of 18% in sales in November 2010, compared to the corresponding period last year. It sold 8376 units in November 2010 against 7118 units sold in November, 2009.  The November 2010 sales comprised 2786 units of the Chevrolet Spark, 2547 units of Chevrolet Beat, 1476 units of the Chevrolet Tavera, 617 units of the Chevrolet Cruze, 297 Units of Chevrolet Aveo, 291 units of Chevrolet Aveo U-VA, 262 units of Chevrolet Optra and 100 units of the Chevrolet Captiva.  

The increase in the sales was primarily driven by the response to Chevrolet Cruze, Beat and Spark. Chevrolet Cruze and Beat have become the industry benchmarks in their respective segments and a winner among consumers in India, with their best-in-class design, performance and other product attributes. Commenting on the performance, Mr. P. Balendran, Vice President, GM India said, "We are excited by the continued overwhelming response to Chevrolet Cruze, Beat and Spark.  Introduction of best-in-segment cars from the 300 series, increase in customer outreach through distribution network, our unique value proposition like Chevrolet Cashless Ownership offer and our promise to deliver quality and performance are the factors that have led to the impressive sales."

]]>6847<![CDATA[General Motors Indias October 2010 Sales grow by 36 percent]]>http://www.carwale.com/news/6847-general-motors-indias-october-2010-sales-grow-by-36-percent.htmlhttp://www.carwale.com/news/6847-general-motors-indias-october-2010-sales-grow-by-36-percent.htmlCarWale Team11/1/2010 5:20:17 PM2563http://img.carwale.com/ec/6847/img/m/6847_mhttp://img.carwale.com/ec/6847/img/m/6847_lGeneral Motors India has registered a growth of 36% in sales in October 2010, compared to the corresponding period last year. It sold 10051 units in October 2010 against 7413 units in October 2009. The October 2010 sales comprised 3251 units of the Chevrolet Spark, 3021 units of Chevrolet Beat, 1594 units of the Chevrolet Tavera, 957 units of the Chevrolet Cruze, 405 Units of Chevrolet Aveo, 328 units of Chevrolet Aveo U-VA, 333 units of Chevrolet Optra and 162 units of the Chevrolet Captiva.

]]>General Motors India has registered a growth of 36% in sales in October 2010, compared to the corresponding period last year. It sold 10051 units in October 2010 against 7413 units in October 2009. The October 2010 sales comprised 3251 units of the Chevrolet Spark, 3021 units of Chevrolet Beat, 1594 units of the Chevrolet Tavera, 957 units of the Chevrolet Cruze, 405 Units of Chevrolet Aveo, 328 units of Chevrolet Aveo U-VA, 333 units of Chevrolet Optra and 162 units of the Chevrolet Captiva.

The increase in the sales was primarily driven by the response to Chevrolet Cruze, Beat and Spark. Commenting on the performance, Mr. P. Balendran, Vice President, GM India said, "We are excited by the continued overwhelming response to Chevrolet Cruze, Beat and Spark.  Introduction of best-in-segment cars from the 300 series, increase in customer outreach through distribution network, our unique value proposition like Chevrolet Cashless Ownership offer and our promise to deliver quality and performance are the factors that have led to the impressive sales."

]]>6640<![CDATA[General Motors India September Sales grow by 13 percent]]>http://www.carwale.com/news/6640-general-motors-india-september-sales-grow-by-13-percent.htmlhttp://www.carwale.com/news/6640-general-motors-india-september-sales-grow-by-13-percent.htmlCarWale Team10/1/2010 3:43:48 PM2006http://img.carwale.com/ec/6640/img/m/6640_mhttp://img.carwale.com/ec/6640/img/m/6640_lGeneral Motors India has registered an impressive growth of 13% in sales in September 2010, compared to the corresponding period last year. It sold 8617 units in September 2010 against 7654 units in September 2009. The September 2010 sales comprised 2753 units of Chevrolet Beat, 2424 units of the Chevrolet Spark, 1578 units of the Chevrolet Tavera, 847 units of the Chevrolet Cruze, 325 Units of Chevrolet Aveo, 287 units of Chevrolet Aveo U-VA, 236 units of Chevrolet Optra and 167 units of the Chevrolet Captiva.

]]>General Motors India has registered an impressive growth of 13% in sales in September 2010, compared to the corresponding period last year. It sold 8617 units in September 2010 against 7654 units in September 2009. The September 2010 sales comprised 2753 units of Chevrolet Beat, 2424 units of the Chevrolet Spark, 1578 units of the Chevrolet Tavera, 847 units of the Chevrolet Cruze, 325 Units of Chevrolet Aveo, 287 units of Chevrolet Aveo U-VA, 236 units of Chevrolet Optra and 167 units of the Chevrolet Captiva.

The increase in the sales was primarily driven by the response to Chevrolet Beat, Cruze and Spark. Chevrolet Spark continues to register impressive sales, clearly validating it as the one of the most sought after car in its segment in terms of styling, performance and fuel efficiency offering a value for money proposition. Other car lines have also registered impressive growth during the month.

Commenting on the performance, Mr. P. Balendran, Vice President, GM India said, “We are excited by the continued overwhelming response to Chevrolet Beat, Spark and Cruze. Introduction of best-in-segment cars from the 300 series, increase in customer outreach through distribution network, our unique value proposition like Chevrolet Cashless Ownership offer and our promise to deliver quality and performance are the factors that have led to the impressive sales.”

]]>6413<![CDATA[GM Registers 34 percent Sales Growth in August ]]>http://www.carwale.com/news/6413-gm-registers-34-percent-sales-growth-in-august.htmlhttp://www.carwale.com/news/6413-gm-registers-34-percent-sales-growth-in-august.htmlCarWale Team9/1/2010 2:14:31 PM1595http://img.carwale.com/ec/6413/img/m/6413_mhttp://img.carwale.com/ec/6413/img/m/6413_lGeneral Motors India has registered a sales growth of 34% in August 2010, compared to the corresponding period last year. It sold 7941 units in August 2010 against 5939 units in August 2009. The August 2010 sales comprised 2481 units of the Chevrolet Spark, 2475 units of Chevrolet Beat, 1438 units of the Chevrolet Tavera, 724 units of the Chevrolet Cruze, 325 Units of Chevrolet Aveo, 240 units of Chevrolet Aveo U-VA, 176 units of the Chevrolet Captiva and 82 units of Chevrolet Optra.

]]>General Motors India has registered a sales growth of 34% in August 2010, compared to the corresponding period last year. It sold 7941 units in August 2010 against 5939 units in August 2009. The August 2010 sales comprised 2481 units of the Chevrolet Spark, 2475 units of Chevrolet Beat, 1438 units of the Chevrolet Tavera, 724 units of the Chevrolet Cruze, 325 Units of Chevrolet Aveo, 240 units of Chevrolet Aveo U-VA, 176 units of the Chevrolet Captiva and 82 units of Chevrolet Optra.

The increase in the sales was primarily driven by the response to Chevrolet Beat, Cruze and Spark. Commenting on the performance, Mr. P. Balendran, Vice President, GM India said, "We are excited by the continued overwhelming response to Chevrolet Beat, Spark and Cruze. Introduction of best-in-segment cars from the 300 series, increase in customer outreach through distribution network, our unique value proposition like Chevrolet Cashless Ownership offer and our promise to deliver quality and performance are the factors that have led to the impressive sales."

The Chevrolet Spark and the Beat demonstrate next generation styling and it might just be the reason why it has struck a chord with the young crowd in India. GM has been working on alternate fuels and we sure hope that the Beat Diesel and the LPG versions are launched soon.

]]>6192<![CDATA[General Motors India's July 2010 Sales Grow by 45%]]>http://www.carwale.com/news/6192-general-motors-indias-july-2010-sales-grow-by-45.htmlhttp://www.carwale.com/news/6192-general-motors-indias-july-2010-sales-grow-by-45.htmlCarWale Team8/2/2010 1:27:37 PM2619http://img.carwale.com/ec/6192/img/m/6192_mhttp://img.carwale.com/ec/6192/img/m/6192_lGeneral Motors India registered a sales growth of 45% in July 2010, compared to the corresponding period last year. The July 2010 sales comprised 2244 units of the Chevrolet Spark, 1722 units of Chevrolet Beat, 1546 units of the Chevrolet Tavera, 639 units of the Chevrolet Cruze, 375 Units of Chevrolet Aveo, 240 units of Chevrolet Aveo U-VA, 225 units of the Chevrolet Captiva and 133 units of Chevrolet Optra.

]]>General Motors India registered a sales growth of 45% in July 2010, compared to the corresponding period last year. The July 2010 sales comprised 2244 units of the Chevrolet Spark, 1722 units of Chevrolet Beat, 1546 units of the Chevrolet Tavera, 639 units of the Chevrolet Cruze, 375 Units of Chevrolet Aveo, 240 units of Chevrolet Aveo U-VA, 225 units of the Chevrolet Captiva and 133 units of Chevrolet Optra.

The increase in the sales was primarily driven by the response to Chevrolet Beat, Cruze and Spark. Commenting on the performance, Mr. P. Balendran, Vice President, GM India said, "There were some delivery constraints for certain models in July due to annual maintenance shutdown of the plant. With the operation back to normal, we should be able to clear the backlog this month."

Having sold 3,00,000 cars in the country already, Chevrolet will look forward to another successful year in India.

]]>5997<![CDATA[GM India Displays its Cars at the Hyderabad International Auto Show 2010]]>http://www.carwale.com/news/5997-gm-india-displays-its-cars-at-the-hyderabad-international-auto-show-2010.htmlhttp://www.carwale.com/news/5997-gm-india-displays-its-cars-at-the-hyderabad-international-auto-show-2010.htmlCarWale Team7/22/2010 5:09:28 PM3161http://img.carwale.com/ec/5997/img/m/5997_mhttp://img.carwale.com/ec/5997/img/m/5997_lGeneral Motors India is showcasing its of offerings at the International Auto Show in Hyderabad. Speaking about the range of vehicles on display, Mr P Balendran, Vice-President, General Motors India said, "The Auto Show in Hyderabad provides us with an ideal platform to exhibit GM India’s technological advancement and product offerings. This forum gives us an opportunity to engage with the valued consumers in this region and gain market insights into consumer trends and response, enabling us to serve them better. This region has tremendous market potential and is a key region for us." The vehicles on display include Chevrolet Captiva, Spark, Beat and Cruze.

]]>General Motors India is showcasing its of offerings at the International Auto Show in Hyderabad. Speaking about the range of vehicles on display, Mr P Balendran, Vice-President, General Motors India said, "The Auto Show in Hyderabad provides us with an ideal platform to exhibit GM India’s technological advancement and product offerings. This forum gives us an opportunity to engage with the valued consumers in this region and gain market insights into consumer trends and response, enabling us to serve them better. This region has tremendous market potential and is a key region for us." The vehicles on display include Chevrolet Captiva, Spark, Beat and Cruze.

The Chevrolet Beat is a sporty hatchback, it showcases the new direction of Chevrolet design and a new trend in the design of mini-cars. The Beat comes with a new generation Smart-TEC II 1.2L engine delivering a class leading 80.5ps and an exceptionally high fuel efficiency of 18.6kmpl per ARAI tests. The Beat also offers some segment first luxury features like Automatic Climate Control and Tilt Steering.

General Motors thought it fit to bring a power-packed sedan into the Indian market and with the launch of the Chevrolet Cruze they did just that. With the Automatic transmission option the Cruze offers everything any discerning Indian car buyer could want in a Sedan.

The Chevrolet Spark is another car which has captivated the Indian buyer and has established General Motors in the Indian market. It is trusted by the customers across the country for its multiple features, safety, fuel efficiency and value proposition. This entry level Hatchback provides unbeatable value through its modern, dynamic styling, unmatched fuel economy and class leading comfort and convenience.

Since its launch, the Captiva has established a clear niche for itself and has emerged as a top contender in the premium SUV space. GM India has also launched a limited edition of Captiva called the Xtreme with state-of-the-art design features like the electric Sunroof, sporty red & black two tone interior trim, black bezel headlamps, smoked lens tail lamps, etc.

Seven years into the Indian Market, General Motors, has certainly captures a lot of hearts here. Their participation in the Auto Expo would bring them one step closer to understanding the Indian consumer.

]]>5424<![CDATA[General Motors India's June 2010 Sales Grow By 112% ]]>http://www.carwale.com/news/5424-general-motors-indias-june-2010-sales-grow-by-112.htmlhttp://www.carwale.com/news/5424-general-motors-indias-june-2010-sales-grow-by-112.htmlCarWale Team7/2/2010 8:47:35 PM2806http://img.carwale.com/ec/5424/img/m/5424_mhttp://img.carwale.com/ec/5424/img/m/5424_lGeneral Motors India has registered a growth of 112% in sales in June 2010, compared to the corresponding period last year. It sold 9,539 units in June 2010 against 4,492 units in June 2009.

]]>General Motors India has registered a growth of 112% in sales in June 2010, compared to the corresponding period last year. It sold 9,539 units in June 2010 against 4,492 units in June 2009.

The June 2010 sales of Chevrolet comprised 3,415 units of Beat, 2,911 units of the Spark, 773 units of the Cruze, 1,423 units of the Tavera, 398 Units of Aveo, 387 units of Aveo U-VA, 139 units of the Captiva and 93 units of Optra.

The increase in the sales was primarily driven by the tremendous response to the recently launched Chevrolet Beat, Chevrolet Cruze and the Chevrolet Spark.

Commenting on the performance, Mr. P. Balendran, Vice President, GM India said, "We are excited by the continued overwhelming response to Chevrolet Beat, Cruze and Spark. Introduction of best-in-segment cars from the 300 series, increase in customer outreach through distribution network, our unique value proposition like Chevrolet Cashless Ownership offer and our promise to deliver quality and performance are the factors that have led to the impressive sales.”

The increase in the demand of cars has led them to introduce two shifts at the Halol and Talegaon factory. The demand is up and they obviously have to keep in check the supply. GM sure have captured their fair share of attention in the market.

]]>