The festive season is just around the corner and happy days are going to begin for players operating in the Indian car market. Automobile manufacturers in India will be looking to maximise sales through launching new models or upgrades of existing ones, a trend that has been prevalent since time immemorial. Renault and Volkswagen, two European giants, are set to launch facelift versions of the Duster and Vento models, respectively, on the 24th of September, reports have claimed.
Renault Duster’s facelift is going to be an exciting launch since after a long time an All-Wheel Drive version of the much-acclaimed compact Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) is going to be available in the market. The launch of AWD Renault Duster will make it the top notch guise, above RxL and RxZ variants. Alterations have been made cosmetically but only a few of them while the mechanical configuration remains the same. Interiors have been enhanced by the new 3-spoke steering wheel, instrument cluster and fabric upholstery. In addition, 3 settings will be available in the AWD version of Renault Duster, which has been provided with ASR and ESP to ensure optimum levels of traction.
The facelift version of Volkswagen Vento will also see the light of the day on 24th September. Unlike the Duster, this new version of Vento is expected to feature a number of cosmetic changes, which includes an altered front grille, headlights and grille. Tail lights and bumper on the rear will feature slight changes, similar to those that were seen in the new Polo. Interiors feature new upholstery, upgraded audio system and flat bottom steering wheel. The main change to be seen in the Volkswagen Vento facelift is going to be the new 1.5-litre TDI diesel version, which is expected to perform exceptionally. It is expected to produce 105 BHP of power and will operate in lieu of the regular 1.6-litre diesel powertrain. Better frugality, enhanced power and efficiency are things expected from this new unit.
Entry of new models has resulted in the loss of sales for Renault Duster and Volkswagen Vento. With the Volkswagen sedan’s sales having been reduced to 500 units a month, this facelift version is expected to alter that paradigm. Renault Duster, on the other hand, will be looking to ward off competition from the Ford EcoSport, which has now become India’s most loved compact SUV. In addition, other models like Skoda Yeti and Mahindra Scorpio also make life difficult for Renault Duster, something that the new version is expected to change.
Source: MB
