The Indian auto industry will witness some of the most anticipated models in festive season this year. The month of October seems to quite lucrative for the auto makers, despite being a slowdown in the economy and weak sentiments of buyers. Some of the major highlights of this month will be the launch ceremonies of Tata Safari Storme, Maruti Suzuki Alto 800 and Mahindra-SsangYong Rexton.
Heading with the most economical vehicle among the three, Maruti Suzuki Alto 800 is expected to be introduced as a compact hatchback, which is expected to be placed under Rs. 2 lacs category. Post launch, the model will deliver a stiff competition to Tata Nano and Hyundai Eon, which are somehow placed in a same segment. The upcoming model from the end of MSIL will be equipped with a 0.8 litre petrol engine which will have a displacement of 796 cc. Staying parallel with the reputation of Alto and Maruti 800; the yet-to-be launched model will deliver an unmatched fuel economy of 22.7 kmpl.
Following the league, the next model to mark its presence in the Indian auto industry will be Tata Safari Storme, which will be placed in the Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) segment post launch. Showcased at the 2012 Delhi Auto Expo, the model will be incorporated with a 2.2 litre DiCOR engine, which will produce a peak power of 140 bhp with a maximum torque of 320 Nm. The model is expected to carry the heritage of Tata Safari; however the upcoming car will be sold along the sidelines of current generation model.
Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) is also set to introduce its SsangYong brand in the country with the launch of Rexton SUV. The model will hit at the Indian showrooms on October 17 and is expected to be locally manufactured at the company’s Chakan plant, near Pune. The model is anticipated to be priced around Rs. 20 lacs and thus, will be placed in the luxury segment of the industry.
All these launches will surely turn the tides in the favour of Indian auto industry as the monthly sales of September 2012 were not so impressive. Several auto makers are betting high on the auto market in festive season, which is likely to create a buzz for the auto aficionados.
