The dreaded 21-12-2012 day is just hours away and just in case the world does end, one would wonder what could be missed in the automobile industry next year. So far, the year 2012 has been a mixed bag for Indian passenger car market, as on one hand several breakthrough cars were launched, while on the other hand many much hyped products failed to live up to their expectations. Accordingly, many domestic car enthusiasts have pinned many a great expectations with upcoming 2013 car launches in the country.
Among the most captivating names that have been announced to arrive on Indian shores next year, the Ford EcoSport compact Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) definitely heads the list. Pegged by most industry experts to become a game changer for the American multinational auto giant, EcoSport is also expected to snatch away the numero uno spot from Renault Duster in compact SUV segment of the Indian passenger car market.
Further, another enticing prospect to be launched next year for the premium car loving Indian audience is the BMW 1 series compact hatch range. The country’s favourite premium sports and luxury car maker has decided to storm its way into the core of best selling class of vehicles in the Indian auto market - the compact hatchback segment. Interestingly, BMW’s stiffest most rival and fellow German auto firm, Mercedes Benz has lined up its A Class hatchback range as well for the country, which will compete directly against the 1 Series. Both Mercedes Benz A Class and BMW 1 Series are expected to be launched with price tags around Rs. 15 lakhs in the Indian auto market.
