The year began with the launch and showcasing of SUV's from various car-makers in the country. Now manufacturers seem to have shifting this focus on another popular vehicle segment, namely MPV. Honda has been working on the launch of its much anticipated vehicle 'Mobilio', whereas French automaker Renault has been working on developing its very own MPV named 'Lodgy'. On the other hand, Datsun does not want be far behind the competition with the launch of its very own 'Go+'.
The production version of Renault Lodgy may receive 1.5-litre K9K diesel engine that has been successful with Duster. The Lodgy MPV is expected to be longer than Mobilio MPV, but might measure shorter than Innova. The MPV is already in sale in other international markets, in India the company is likely to bring petrol and diesel variants of the MPV. The suavely designed MPV is expected to be priced aggressively for the domestic market which means it could be a potential threat for the rest of vehicles in its segment.
Recently, news has been doing rounds that Renault India may also launch the 4X4 variant of its popular compact SUV Duster by second half of 2014. The 4X4 variant is already available for sale in overseas market and will finally make its way into the domestic market by mid 2014. Duster 4X4 variant is available in petrol and diesel engine options in international markets. Besides 4X4 variant launch, speculations are also rife that Renault could induct Duster in automatic transmission.
Arnaud Deboeuf, Renault Group’s Entry Programme Director, said, “With Renault branding, it perfectly meets the demands of our international customers and is contributing to Renault’s expansion in emerging markets.” The Duster SUV from Renault offered at a starting price tag of Rs. 7.78 Lakhs (Ex-showroom Delhi). The price for the 4x4 variant is unknown and only shall be revealed post an announcement made by the company stating its launch.
