Ashok Leyland, a company known for manufacturing commercial vehicles, has launched its Multi Purpose Vehicle (MPV) named Stile in the Indian auto market. As expected, this move would not surprise many, as reports previously indicated that its launch might occur around the festive season. At the onset of the launch event, Vice Chairman of Ashok Leyland, V Sumantran was quoted as saying, "We are extremely delighted to launch the second product offering from the Ashok Leyland Nissan JV, which we believe, will change the dynamics of Indian MPVs. With Stile in our portfolio, we are now better positioned to cater to a wider customer base and range of transportation needs.’’
It must be noted that Stile has been developed jointly by Ashok Leyland and Nissan Motor Company under their joint venture. With a base price tag of Rs. 7.49 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), the seven-seater product is targeted to lure the fleet and taxi operators in major cities of the country. As informed by the company officials, Stile will be delivered at all the dealership network of the company that comprise 130 outlets, spread across different parts of the country. Also to mention, Stile will be produced at Nissan's manufacturing plant at Oragadam in Tamil Nadu.
Commenting on the target audience for Stile, Nitin Seth, the Executive Director of Light Commercial Vehicles and Defence Business said, "Stile is not a vehicle aimed at personal buyers; it is aimed at the value seeker fleet operator. In India, people want a balanced vehicle, with focus on functionality of fuel efficiency and cost of running than on the performance of the car, and Stile intends to deliver that."
The vehicle has been offered in three variants, namely LE, LS and LX and is available in 5 different colours like white, silver, grey, red, and black. As far as its engine is concerned, Stile is powered by the same unit, which is doing a good job in Nissan Evalia, however its tuning options are different. Stile comes equipped with a 1.5-litre K9K diesel engine, which generates a peak power output of 73 bhp, alongside a maximum torque of 185 Nm. As claimed by the company, its latest offering delivers a fuel efficiency of 19.5 kmpl. On the grounds of features, Stile comes along with dual air conditioning system coupled with rear vents, glove box, bucket seats and rear window.
With an aim to target 5000 taxi unions and many more fleet operators in the country, Ashok Leyland is planning to organise 25000 test drives of its vehicle in more than 100 cities. Seth further told "With fuel prices rising, a taxi guy's fare is not going up. With a more fuel efficient vehicle, he can earn more. From his passenger's perspective, the ingress and egress is comfortable due to monocoque architecture, and the rear window, dual AC and bigger wheels offer a more comfortable ride."
In the meanwhile, Ashok Leyland is pinning hopes on Stile to revive its fortunes as the share of light commercial vehicles have fallen from 14 per cent to 11036 units in April to August time frame as compared to the figures of year-ago period. However, the sales of its mini truck Dost have contributed immensely as the company delivered 55,000 units since its launch in India.
