At the inauguration of Honda’s second facility in Tapukara, the company made some significant announcements on its upcoming cars. Company officials have hinted on the launch of Mobilio MPV that was recently showcased at the 12thAuto Expo. Mobilio is expected to launch by the third quarter of 2014 which means Mobilio can go on sale in India anytime between July and September. Honda has not made any official announcement about the launch of its premium hatchback Jazz which was also showcased with Mobilio at the Auto Expo 2014, but looking at the general trend followed by Honda, it is being inferred that Jazz could be rolled out by the first quarter of 2015.
Honda’s absence in the MPV segment in India is conspicuous; the company had been counting on its sedans and Brio hatchback until now. Indian automotive industry has seen abrupt change in trend from being a hatchback hub to a market where car makers are experimenting with new products. Compact SUVs and MPVs have struck a chord with the customers and are in demand. Honda’s foray into the MPV segment is being awaited by Honda car enthusiasts. For now, Honda is enjoying the response for its diesel powered sedans, Amaze and new City.
Honda witnessed extensive growth in 2013, its flagship sedan, City and the new addition to its India portfolio, Amaze did extremely well. The Japanese car maker received an influx of bookings for both the sedans which are being offered in petrol and diesel variants as well.With the second plant being functional, Honda aims at clearing the backlog and reducing waiting periods for the new City sedan. However, the company officials confirmed that Amaze would be the first car to be rolled out from Tapukara plant.
