With the curtains closing on the Auto Expo 2012 on 11th January, 2012, the event has given the Indian auto industry an insight into the future. It gave a preview of the changes and innovations that can be expected in the coming years.
This year’s event was flooded with family mobility solutions, with focus on MPVs and SUVs. The reason behind this is assumed to be the shift in the preference of buyers for a compact vehicle that has aggressive looks and road presence of a SUV. Buyers are more inclined towards vehicles that can be used for going to office as well as for going on a weekend trip with family. Moreover, with the rising fuel costs, buyers are looking for compact vehicles that offer high fuel economy, minus the high price tag.
There are few manufacturers that have been successful in catering to the compact MPV/SUV requirement of buyers. Maruti, a leader in compact vehicles, showcased the stylish MPV Ertiga at the Auto Expo, which earned accolades from visitors and experts both. This seven-seater MPV will be launched before April. Besides Ertiga, the renowned car maker also showcased XA Alpha, which is an off-roader compact SUV concept.
Equipped with diesel engine, the stylish and affordable Mahindra Xylo and XUV 500 have been successful in diverting attention of buyers towards compact vehicle, away from sedan. Another auto giant, Ford showcased its much awaited EcoSport, which will be available in both diesel and petrol variant. This car, based on the Fiesta platform, is expected to be available by the year-end. Hyundai Hexa Space, showcased at the Auto Expo, also managed to steal hearts of many. This MPV concept, code named as HND-7, is an eight-seater compact car and draws inspiration from ‘Fluidic Sculpture’.
The compact SUV launched by Renault, the Duster, was also showcased at the Auto Expo. This premium-but-affordable compact car will be available by the second half of 2012. The fourth offering by Renault in India is a mid-size crossover that is expected to amalgamate the style and performance of SUV with comfort offered by sedan. The price of the compact SUV, which will be available in both petrol and diesel, has not yet been announced by the company.
Other cars showcased at the exposition that have earned recognition are Nissan Evalia, Tata Safari Storme as well as the facelifted Toyota Fortuner and Innova. Seeing the numerous launches and showcases at the Auto Expo, it will be no surprise to see the compact MPVs/SUVs ruling the Indian auto market in near future.
