Come 2014 and the Indian market is all geared up for competition in SUV segment from Indian and International carmakers. Recently, the SUV segment has gained a lot of popularity in the Indian market. As more and more commuters opt for the SUV's, carmakers have divedin to deliver the best in this cutthroat competition. Amongst the fleet of power packed machines two new cars are gearedup to compete against each other. The cars are namely – Honda Vezel and the revamped Hyundai Santa Fe.
Hyundai, the Korean Automaker intends on gaining its lost footing in the SUV segment with an all new 'Santa Fe' for the Indian market. As per reports, the new version imbibes a Fluidicderived Storm edge design philosophy. The SUV shall be powered by the same 2.2 litre diesel engine that produces an impressive 194 bhp with a torque output of 436 Nm. Twowheel drive/Fourwheel drive pattern shall be available with an option to choose from Automatic transmission or Manual Transmission. The car is expected to receive cosmetic upgrades, whereas the technical specifications may remain moreorless the same. Six air bags and allwheel drive come as standard on the top variant. The SUV is launched at a price tag of 26.3 Lakh.
On the exterior front, the Santa Fe features a bolderlooking grill and the headlights are mated to flow through its sides. The sides also feature a smooth contour bringing out the Fluidic design at its best. The SUV's teardropshaped fog lamps are integrated into the front bumpers. The interior in the Santa Fe is stated to be based on fluidic design. It features a GPS device, leather seats, sunroof and a convenient startstop system for the engine.
Honda has been a consistent performer in the Indian market over a period of time. Reasons for this include the ability to match changing trends and meet consumer demands. Over time, Honda has taken note of the success of the Duster and Ecosport models. It has understood that Indian car buyers look for value in their purchases. It is hence expected to price the Honda Vezel between 6 – 12 Lakhs. Pocket friendly pricing of this car puts in direct competition against the likes of Ford Ecosport and Renault Duster in the SUV segment. Moreover, the quality and reliability factors in the offering from Honda make it a valued catch. It’s like being with a good old friend who comes to your rescue whenever you need one!
The Honda Vezel features an allblack interior complemented with fabric upholstery. Moreover, Honda has included new and interesting features in the car such as touch screen infotainment system, touch screen climate control and steering mounted controls. The car is powered by a 1.5 litre iVTECH petrol engine that efficiently produces approximately 116 Bhp power and 164 Nm of torque. The diesel version borrows the 1.5litre iDTEC diesel engine from the Amaze sedan and this engine engine produces raw power of upto 98 bhp and 200Nm of torque. Both the petrol and diesel engine variants in the Honda Vezel are mated with 5speed manual and fivespeed automatic.
