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SEPTEMBER ‘09 CONTENTS
THIS MONTH’S COVER STORIES AT A GLANCE
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NEW AUDI Q7 VS RIVALS Can this refreshed monster better its German rivals - the BMW X5 and the Mercedes-Benz M-Class?
MERCEDES-BENZ E 350 An Indian first drive of the best E-Class ever!
DRIVEN
NEW FORD ENDEAVOUR (PG 50) Ford’s brawny SUV gets a revamp for India. Will it continue to lure buyers?
MPH
REFURBISHED CAMRY (PG 30) Toyota adds some features while upgrades others on the Camry. Is it a worthy facelift? PORSCHE CAYMAN S (PG 90) We drive the 2009 Porsche Cayman S in Germany. Is it the best car in the Porsche lineup today?
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LIRJB PPRB BMQBJ?BO
DRIVE FIRST INDIAN E 350 NZ BE SDE MERCE
GERMAN TERNARY
The new Audi Q7 takes on the BMW X5 & the Merc M-Class
FIAT PUNTO 1.4 FIRE (PG 86) Will the debut of this FIRE-y Italian superhatch see its rivals go up in flames?
DRIVEN
SKODA SUPERB V6 (PG 54) Did we love the new Superb’s bigger and more powerful 3.6-litre V6 engine?
New Ford Endeavour New Toyota Camry Porsche Cayman S
TESTED
FIAT Punto 1.4 Skoda Superb V6 Range Rover Sport
FEATURE
CI Top Personalities
10th Auto Expo Dates Out PUBLISHING
CMYK
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CI HALL OF FAME 2009 The most influential highfliers in India’s automotive arena
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TESTED
PORSCHE 911 GT3 VS NISSAN GT-R SPEC V: DRIVEN AT THE NÜRBURGRING
RANGE ROVER SPORT (PG 32) The mammoth Brit goes through a typical CAR India test
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RING LEADER Nissan has a Spec V up its sleeve. Can it stay on the same lap around the Nürburgring as Porsche’s latest, greatest 911?
CAR India SEPTEMBER 2009
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SEPTEMBER ‘09 CONTENTS
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BULLETIN 10 12 14 15 16 18
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2010 Porsche 911 GT3-RS 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show - a preview New Nissan X-trial and Teana for India. Nissan Leaf goes into production New car launches in India - Estilo / Endeavour / Fortuner / Q7 / Ikon Ikool Lamborghini and Bentley burn Delhi streets / BMW X6 and 7 Series ActiveHybrids VRDE new testing center / 2010 Auto Expo dates / Aeroids car products / Elofic filters’ new plant
SPORTS
REGULARS
104 SLUSH FEST IN GOA The 50th edition of the M&M Great Escape rally 107 LOCAL MOTORSPORTS & APRC Indian sports and APRC Rally Malaysia 109 EUROPEAN GP Barrichello pips Hamilton to win in Valencia 110 WRC RALLY FINLAND Mikko Hirvonen’s maiden victory on home turf
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THE CAR INDIA COLUMNS Bunny Punia and Gavin Green 22 INTERACTIVE Your views in our Inbox, cool stuff in Gearbox and the Techno Bible 102 OUR CARS The Jetta, the Ritz and the XYLO serve us well 116 THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE UGLY All you need to know about the cars currently sold in India
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EDITOR’S LETTER dia.in www.carin
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the BMW i Q7 takes on The new Aud
rc M-Class X5 & the Me
DRIVEN avour New Ford Ende y New Toyota Camr S Porsche Cayman
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FIAT Punto 1.4 Skoda Superb V6 t Range Rover Spor
FEATURE ties CI Top Personali
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BURGRIN s Out EN AT THE NÜR SPEC V: DRIV 10th Auto Expo Date NISSAN GT-R
PUBLISHING
GT3 VS PORSCHE 911
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IN LIFE, IT IS VERY EASY TO CRITICIZE anything but to do something constructive is so difficult. It is the same when we test cars. The R&D teams burn a lot of midnight oil in designing and building cars. After that, the testing department puts in hundreds of thousands of miles before the cars go into production. But some of us criticize and write-off cars without a second thought. If you think you are good enough to criticize then you should also be able to give a solution for the problem. Toyota finally seems to have got a wakeup call and they are now really getting serious about the Indian market. It may be a coincidence or done on purpose, but after the industry nosedived in the USA and Europe, Toyota seems to be taking a lot of interest in the Indian market. They launched the Land Cruiser a couple of months back, a facelifted Camry last month and now the Fortuner. There hasn’t been so much activity from Toyota in years in contrast to what we have witnessed in the last couple of months. With the launch of their small car later next year, Toyota want to make amends for all the lost time and make a real impact in India. Volkswagen is also set to take the fight to the competition in the small car segment with their all-new Polo. With Nissan bringing in the Micra next June, the small car market is going to see a lot of competition. Small car buyers will have a lot of variety to choose from.
ASPI BHATHENA EXECUTIVE EDITOR
CAR India Magazine, 401B, Gandhi Empire, 5th Floor, 2 Sareen Estate, Kondhwa Road, Pune 411 040. INDIA Tel: +91-20-32930291/2 Fax: +91-20-26830465 Email us at: carindia@nextgenpublishing.net EDITORIAL Executive editor Aspi Bhathena International editor John Sootheran Copy desk Monica Thakkar Art director Ramnath S Chodankar Features editor Bunny Punia Sr. Correspondent Sarmad Kadiri Staff writers and reporters Shridhar Chari, Adhish Alawani, Ajay Joyson, Saeed Akhtar Editorial contributors Nikhil Raghavan, Yoshio Maezawa, Navroze Contractor Staff photographers Sanjay Raikar, Sawan Sekhar Hembram Contributing photographers DPPI Production executive Dinesh Bhajnik Senior designer Ravi Parmar Designers Varun Kulkarni, Ajit Manjrekar Administration executive Roshni Bulsara EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD Phil McNamara, H S Billimoria, Sam Katgara, Aspi Bhathena GROUP ART DIRECTOR AND PRODUCTION IN-CHARGE Atul Bandekar ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Marzban Jasoomani ADVERTISING Regional mktg. mgr. Ellora Dasgupta (North & East) Regional manager A.Mageshwar (Tamil Nadu & Kerala) Asst. manager advt. Chanchal Arora (Delhi), Area advt. mgr. Niladri S Majumder (Mumbai), Pramod Udupa (Bangalore), Y. Lingeswaran (Chennai) Sr. response executive Vidya Venkatesan (Mumbai), Sachi Kumar (Delhi) National circulation manager & subscription K. Srikanth Asst. circulation manager Kapil Kaushik (Delhi), Sanjeev Roy (Mumbai) Subscription supervisor Sachin Kelkar PUBLISHING Publisher Khushroo Bhadha CAR India is a licensee product of Bauer Consumer Media Ltd., UK.
NEWS-STAND DISTRIBUTION India Book House, Mumbai 400021 Tel +91 22 22840626, Fax +91 22 2835099 MARKETING & SUBSCRIPTION HEAD OFFICE Next Gen Publishing Ltd. 2nd Floor, Khatau House, Mogul lane, Mahim (W), Mumbai – 400016. India. Tel + 22 43525252 Fax + 22 24448289 REGIONAL MARKETING OFFICES Next Gen Publishing Ltd. Block No. 24 & 30, 1st Floor, Okhla Industrial Estate, Phase III, New Delhi – 110020. India Tel +11 42345678
IF YOU THINK YOU ARE GOOD ENOUGH TO CRITICIZE THEN YOU SHOULD ALSO BE ABLE TO GIVE A SOLUTION FOR THE PROBLEM.
# 903, 9th floor, ‘B’ Wing, Mittal Towers, MG Road, Bangalore -560001. India Tel +080 - 66110116 Unit No. 30, 3rd Floor, Modern Towers, No. 35/23 West Cott Road, Royapettah, Chennai - 600014. India Tel +44 39149889 Fax +44 39149892 Chandan House, 3rd Floor, Mithakhali Six Roads, Ahmedabad - 380006. India Tel +79 40008000 Views and opinions expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of Next Gen Publishing Ltd. Next Gen Publishing does not take responsibility for returning unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or other material. All material published in CAR India is copyright and no part of the magazine may be reproduced in part or full without the express prior written permission of the publisher Published by Khushroo Bhadha on behalf of Next Gen Publishing Ltd., 2nd Floor, Khatau House, Mogul Lane, Mahim (W), Mumbai - 400016. Printed by Khushroo Bhadha Next Gen Publishing Ltd., 2nd Floor, Khatau House, Mogul Lane, Mahim (W), Mumbai - 400016. Printed at Kala Jyothi Process Pvt. Ltd, 1-1-60/5 RTCX Roads, Hyderabad - 20. Published at Next Gen Publishing Ltd., 2nd Floor, Khatau House, Mogul Lane, Mahim (W), Mumbai - 400016.
Executive Editor – Aspi Bhathena
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CAR India JULY 2009 9
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Bulletin ALL THE AUTOMOTIVE NEWS FROM ACROSS THE GLOBE THIS MONTH
Porsche has released the final details and pictures of the 2010 911 GT3-RS and going by the spec sheet, it seems we are in for a treat. The GT3 tag has always embodied the very pinnacle of driving pleasure even by the lofty standards of the 911. Now Porsche claims that the new RS moves the goalposts so forward that visibility is to become a problem. Looks-wise, the new RS throws away all its previous caution to the wind and adopts an outrageous colour scheme that would give a particular species of baboons a mighty complex. But you won’t really be bothered when you learn that the new RS bumps up the power output by 35hp to 450hp, thus taking the specific power output to more than 118hp/litre - insanely high figures for what is, 10
the new RS moves the goalposts so forward that visibility is to become a problem
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THIS MONTH 12 Frankfurt motorshow preview
14 New Nissans in India soon
15 Toyota Fortuner launched
16 Supercars on Delhi roads
Porsche unveils 2010 911 GT3-RS Will it be the ultimate purist’s choice?
Ignore the garish colour scheme, the real deal lies under the hood - like all Porsches
a non-turbocharged engine after all. Compared to the 911 GT3, the gear ratios have been shortened thus adversely (and deliberately) affecting the top speed. The Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) has been set up to further improve the sporting behavior of the wider track chassis, both at the front and the rear axles. Propelling this ballistic missile will be 9-inch wide wheels with 245/35 ZR 19 sports tyres at the front and 12-inch wide wheels with 325/30 ZR 19 sports tyres at the rear. The conventional lead battery will be replaced by a lithium-ion one, thus shaving off weight by 10kg. The new Porsche 911 GT3 RS will go on sale in the UK and Ireland in February 2010 and will be priced from Rs 81 lakh (UK price) approximately. CAR India SEPTEMBER 2009
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Bulletin Frankfurt Motor Show: The Preview It is that time of the year when automotive giants around the world gather in Frankfurt to showcase the projects they have been working on over the past years. CAR India presents some of the important vehicles to look out for during the 63rd Frankfurt Motor Show
Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG The SLS AMG from Mercedes will be introduced at the show and finally everyone will get to see what the supercar looks like for real. The sketches that have been released already give us a fair idea of the aggression the SLS is going to possess once on the road. Powered by a 6.2-litre V8 engine, the SLS AMG is expected to do the 0-100km/h dash in a mere 3.8 seconds and go flat out at close to 315km/h.
Rolls-Royce GhosT The Ghost, Rolls-Royce’s baby Phantom, is going to make its first public appearance at Frankfurt. Powered by a 570 PS 6.6-litre turbocharged V12, it will come with a gargantuan 780Nm of torque on tap at just 1500rpm which will propel the RR to 100km/h in just 4.7 seconds. The Ghost is expected to retail at about Rs 1.3 crore in the United Kingdom. Suzuki SX4 Suzuki is focusing on going as green as possible. The Japanese company will showcase cleaner versions of their existing range of the Alto (A-Star in India), the Swift and the Splash (Ritz in India). Along with that, Suzuki will present the facelifted SX4 hatchback for the European market. Along with the 1.6-litre engine, expect an all-new 2.0-litre DDiS AWD option to be offered on the SX4.
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BMW X1 The mini-X from the Munich carmaker will present itself at the Frankfurt Motor Show for the first time in front of audiences. Basically built on the 3 Series’ underpinnings, the X1 will be made available in two options – a rear wheel drive (known as sDrive in BMW lingo) and an all-wheel drive (xDrive). Though the X1 will occupy a segment below the X3, it is expected to be way finer and better than its immediate elder sibling.
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Hyundai ix35 The Hyundai Tuscon didn’t really manage to sell well in the Indian market since its launch. However, Hyundai is now going to replace the Tuscon with their new iX35 which will debut at the Frankfurt Show. The iX35 will feature Hyundai’s high performance ‘R’ turbo diesel engine with a choice of a manual or an automatic gearbox. It is being said that the iX35 will initially feature only a 2.0-litre powerplant. A 1.6-litre petrol engine option cannot be denied later on.
BMW ActiveHybrid X6 / BMW ActiveHybrid 7 BMW will launch the new ActiveHybrid variants of the 7 and the X6 which are supposed to cater to the eco-conscious rich businessmen. Both cars will use the same 4.4-litre twin turbo V8 motor. While the X6 will have two electric motors and a sevenspeed CVT transmission, the 7 will feature only one electric motor and an eight-speed automatic transmission. From the outside, the cars look the same like the regular 7 Series and the X6.
Mercedes-Benz E-class Estate Mercedes will showcase the Estate version of the new E-class, the pictures of which have already been released by the company. The Estate features the same front end as that of the saloon. However, what it gets is a huge boot space – 1950 litres to be precise. The E-Estate will, of course, get all the high tech electronics from the saloon that takes care of creature comforts and safety.
BMW 5 Series GT The latest 5 Series slated to debut in Frankfurt is probably the strangest new Beemer in the recent past. The 5 Series GT can easily fall in any of the categories including an executive car or an estate or even an MPV. The boot space on this 5 Series can be extended up to a whopping 1700 litres in full cargo mode. The GT might come with three options – 530d, 535i and 550i to start off with. So those who love the 5 Series, the X6 and the 7 Series at the same time have got the perfect combo in the form of the 5 Series GT. Maserati Grancabrio We have the official pictures of the Maserati Grancabrio here which will be showcased at the Frankfurt Motor Show later this month. The company claims that this is their first true four-seater Cabrio and we second them. This Maserati is definitely unlike anything that has been made by the Modenese company but sports the trademark Maserati touch to it. Expect the 4.7-litre V8 from the Granturismo S to power the Grancabrio.
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Bulletin We Hear VW Polo for India
Volkswagen has announced its big plans which include as many as three new cars for the local market in the near future. The first one in the lineup will be the VW Polo. Sources claim that the Polo will be priced in the range of Rs 7 to 9 lakh. This puts the German hatchback against the likes of the Skoda Fabia, the Honda Jazz and the Hyundai i20.
Nissans to get a makeover
Micra to be launched by mid-2010
50 years of Volvo’s three-point safety belt Nissan is all set to launch a facelifted version of its X-Trail SUV and the Teana executive saloon by mid-September. The X-Trail gets an extended wheel arch for that muscular look, a redesigned grille with bigger headlamps, a redesigned tailgate and huge roof rails with path lights. More importantly, the new version is longer by 175mm with a wheelbase extended by 5mm. Inside, the SUV gets a redesigned dashboard with the instrument cluster moved to the driver’s side rather than the centre. The latest variant is expected to be priced slightly In 1958, Nils Bohlin of Sweden invented the three-point safety belt system and Volvo immediately made the technology a part of standard equipment on the Amazon. This system is now celebrating its 50th year of saving people’s lives. The importance of seatbelts can be gauged from the statement made by the German patent office calling the threepoint belt as one of the eight patents that had been of greatest importance to mankind between 1885 and 1985.
Two-year warranty on Skoda Genuines
Skoda has recently announced that they will now provide a twoyear warranty on the Skoda Genuine Parts and Skoda Genuine Accessories. Starting from last month, this warranty has been made available to customers across the complete range of Skoda cars which include the Fabia, the Octavia, the Laura and the Superb. This initiative has been taken by the Czech company to reduce the costs of ownership and maintenance.
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higher than the Rs 24 lakh the current X-Trail commands. The new Teana will also feature redesigned headlamps and a revamped interior besides other changes which are being kept in the dark by the Japanese manufacturer for now. The powertrains for both the cars remain the same. Nissan is also readying its plant in Oragadam, situated about 45km from Chennai, for its first passenger car - the Micra. The first batch of the hatchbacks is expected to be available by mid-2010. The factory has a capacity of approximately 200,000 vehicles per annum.
Nissan turns over a new LEAF Nissan unveils the world’s first zero emission car In what can only be described as revolutionary, the Japanese carmaker today unveiled the world’s first affordable zero emission car, codenamed the LEAF. Designed specifically for a lithium-ion battery powered chassis, the LEAF is a medium sized hatchback that comfortably seats five adults and has enough range to satisfy real world consumer requirements. The electric motor pumps out a maximum power of 80kW which translates to around 107bhp in petrolhead jargon. Unlike internal combustion engine (ICE) equipped vehicles, the LEAF has no tail pipe and thus there are no emissions of CO2 or other greenhouse gases. A combination of Nissan’s regenerative braking system and an innovative lithium-ion battery pack enables the car to deliver a driving range of more than 160km on one full charge. Speaking on the occasion, Nissan President and CEO Carlos Ghosn
stated, “Nissan LEAF is a tremendous accomplishment - one in which all Nissan employees can take great pride. We have been working tirelessly to make this day a reality - the unveiling of a real world car that has zero - not simply reduced - emissions. It’s the first step in what is sure to be an exciting journey - for people all over the world, for Nissan and for the industry.” The LEAF is slated for a launch in late 2010 in Japan, the United States and Europe. As usual, we see no possibility of the car coming to India in the foreseeable future. Sigh!
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Ikon gets iKool-er
Ford ups its ante and adds some bling to its midsize sedan
HAVE YOU NOTICED A NEW iKool badge on a brand new Ikon and are wondering what else the car has on offer? Apart from the label, Ford has incorporated several new features in the car. The Ikon iKool gets an aerodynamic rear spoiler for better control at high speeds. The dart shaped side mouldings and chrome deck lid add to the car’s sporty stance. The iKool features a remote keyless entry AFTER THE LAUNCH OF the mighty Land Cruiser, a limited edition Corolla Altis and a swanking new Camry, Toyota Kirloskar Motor keeps its momentum going by launching the Fortuner, its assault in the mid SUV segment. The SUV is built on the internationally acclaimed Hilux pickup truck platform, and will be assembled at Toyota’s Bidadi plant. It is powered by a 3.0-litre D-4D diesel engine producing 171PS and a mighty 343Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a five-speed manual transmission and will offer full time 4WD. The Fortuner can cocoon seven in utmost comfort with features that include rear air-con vents for the second and third rows, leather wrapped steering
wheel with buttons for various controls, six CD changer music system, parking assist, etc. Safety features include ABS, two airbags up front, three-point ELR seatbelt for all rows and a sturdy Global Outstanding Assessment (GOA) body to lessen impact and strengthen the cabin. The exquisite bodyline and sporty exteriors of the Fortuner are further accentuated by attractive roof rails, a rear spoiler, side steps and an imposing bonnet scoop. The high ground clearance, long wheelbase and full-time 4WD should translate to excellent off-roading capabilities. There will only be one variant of the Fortuner which Toyota has priced very competitively at Rs. 18.45 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi.
India gets the Fortuner
Toyota’s latest SUV is priced at just Rs 18.45 lakhs
L to R: Kaoru Hosokawa, Chief Engineer, TMC, Hiroshi Nakagawa, MD, TKM, Akira Okabe, SMD, TMC, Vikram Kirloskar, VC, TKM and Sandeep Singh, DMD, TKM
anti-theft system, sporty new seats dressed in beige and a new and much needed iPod compatible, MP3 music system. The car is offered in the tried and tested Duratorq TDCi 1.4 diesel and ROCAM 1.3 petrol engine variants. Impressed? Then rush to the nearest Ford dealer with a cheque of Rs. 4.82 lakh for the petrol and Rs 5.42 lakh for the oil burner version. (All prices exshowroom, New Delhi).
Indica Vista Ignis
New Vista variant will feature airbags, ABS and a more powerful engine
TATA IS PLANNING TO launch a new variant of the Indica Vista. Apparently called the Ignis, (remember the Suzuki Ignis) it will be the fourth variant in the Indica Vista lineup after the Terra, the Aura and the Aqua. It seems that the latest version will sport Fiat’s 1.4-litre petrol engine. This engine in the Punto and the Linea produces 90PS of power along with 115Nm of torque and similar figures can be expected in the new Vista too. TATA has thankfully not left out vital safety features this
time round and has included both ABS and two airbags (driver and passenger) in the Indica Vista Ignis. The company has also slotted in a new four spoke steering wheel with audio controls as well. The steering looks neat and the metallic accents on it give it a premium feel. Other significant changes include a slightly redesigned interior, electrically adjustable wing mirrors a new stereo with possible Bluetooth connectivity. Though the car’s launch date is yet to be confirmed, expect it to hit showrooms soon.
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BULLETIN WE HEAR Hyundai joins hands with IndusInd Bank
Hyundai Motor India Ltd (HMIL) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the IndusInd Bank to offer easy car loans for its prospective car buyers. HMIL hope that this association will mutually boost their reach in the market especially as the automobile industry is going through a slowdown. Hyundai will get access to new markets while the IndusInd Bank will be able to offer finance options for a wide spectrum of passenger cars through its branches.
THE DELHI BASED EXCLUSIVE MOTORS hosted the first ever women’s driving event with Bentley and Lamborghini car owners in India recently. The event showcased luxury at its best with gorgeous women driving spectacular cars. The extravaganza began with champagne breakfast at the Aman,
New Delhi where the cars lined up. This show-case of luxury and design came to a befitting close at the residence of the Italian Ambassador - Mr. Roberto Toscano. Among the cars present were the Gallardo LP560 and Syder from Lamborghini and the Bentley Continental range.
A first of its kind event that celebrated women and wheels at the forefront of luxury
Celebrating women driving with exotic cars
FIAT to export the Linea
FIAT India is making the country its base for the export of the Linea to various righthand drive countries around the world. The first country chosen for export is South Africa after which the Linea will go to countries like Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bhutan in a phased manner. Having already exported 700 units of the Palio and 90 units of the Linea in this year, the company is targeting to export no less than 7,000 units of FIAT cars manufactured in India.
Women car rally for breast cancer awareness
The forum for Breast Cancer Protection is organizing a women car rally for raising funds and generating awareness about breast cancer prevention. The rally will start from Delhi on 2nd October, ‘09 and end at Agra. Teams consisting of a woman driver and a navigator will attempt to accurately complete the Time Speed Distance (TSD) rally. The forum is supported by renowned oncologists such as Dr. Mrs. Ramesh Sarin - Founder Chairperson, Dr. Col. C.S Pant, VSM M.D FICRI-Vice Chairperson.
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BMW HAS CONFIRMED THAT ITS first hybrid engine badged the Active Hybrid, will break cover at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September. The technology is to make its first appearance in the X6 Sports Activity Coupe (SAC) and the 7 Series sedan. Both models will use V8 petrol engines, however, the X6 features two electric motors while the 7 Series will have to make do with only one. The X6’s drivetrain churns out a combined maximum power of 478bhp and 779Nm of torque, propelling the car to 100km/h in 5.6sec flat. These figures also make it the most powerful hybrid in the world. BMW claims a combined fuel consumption figure of 10.08kmpl with CO2 emissions of 231g/km - incredible for a behemoth weighing 2450kg. The electric power can propel the car at speeds of up to 60km/h for 2.6 kilometers. To
differentiate the ActiveHybrid X6 from a regular X6, BMW has delivered a kick on the bonnet from below resulting in a bulge which the Munich boffins prefer to describe as a powerdome. The new hybrid will be available in a choice of various colours, as long as you prefer metallic blue. Meanwhile, the 7 Series will feature a direct injected 4.4-litre V8, pumping out well over 400bhp with substantial help from the twin turbochargers. The X6 hybrid will achieve a 20 percent improvement in fuel economy, while the 7 Series hybrid will offer up to a 15 percent improvement.
The X6 will get the world’s most powerful hybrid engine
BMW to introduce ActiveHybrids
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Bulletin Vehicle testing gets cheaper and indigenous VRDE Ahmednagar gets India’s first EMC centre
The Union minister for heavy industries and public enterprises, Vilasrao Deshmukh recently inaugurated the country’s first Automotive Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) testing centre at the Vehicle Research and Development Establishment (VRDE) centre in Ahmednagar. The centre will provide EMC testing facilities to Indian automobile manufacturers at approximately Rs 3 lakh as opposed to the Rs 50 lakh they had to pay abroad till now. The EMC test is a standard test for measuring the emission of
electromagnetic radiation from electronic parts and its impact on other equipment. The test studies the unintentional generation, propagation and reception of electromagnetic energy with reference to the unwanted effects that such energy may induce. According to VRDE officials, the centre has a semi-anechoic chamber, a chassis dynamometer on a turntable, instrumentation for radiated and conducted emission/immunity, a bulk current injection system, a generator, strip-line testing and on-board transmission testing.
2010 Auto Expo dates announced
Slated to be the biggest expo ever
Celebrating its Silver Jubilee year, the 10th Auto Expo will bve held from the 5th to the 11th of January 2009 in Pragati Maidans, New Delhi. This automotive event takes place every two years and is the best platform for automobile manufacturters from not only India but around the world to showcase their latest products and concept
Aeroaids ComPaint: India’s first touchup spray paint Now say goodbye to expensive scratches
No matter how much we take care of our beloved cars, some scratches inevitably crop up, especially while driving in the city. Aeroaids Corporation has introduced Com-Paint, India’s first touchup paint, a completely do-ityourself kit that promises to lessen the time consuming process of scratch removal. The kit comes in an aluminium aerosol can that reduces wastage of time while ensuring quick and effective removal of scratches. Just spray a layer of the acrylic solution and watch scratches disappear in the blink of an eye. Com-Paint is available for almost all paint colours in the Indian car market.
vehicles to the masses. The Auto Expo is the biggest automotive show in India and one of the biggest in Asia. For 2010, the show will be spread over an area of 1,40,000 square meters and will witness participation from 2,100 small and big automotive companies. For more information, log onto www.autoexpo.in
Elofic’s new plant commissioned
The facility establishes Elofic as a major manufacturer of filters
Elofic, a well-known manufacturer of filters for various automotive applications, has commissioned its new plant at Nalagarh. The firm has equipped the new plant with state-of-the-art technologies and machines to manufacture a new generation of advanced filters for the discerning automobile market. The product lineup includes the latest environment friendly 18
Eco filters, advanced spin-on, STF and air filters. The plant also boasts its own press shop for in-house quality control of metallic components thereby increasing the reliability of its products. This new facility will supplement Elofic’s existing Faridabad plant. Elofic, which is already into greases, will also be launching lubricating oils, long life greases and silicon gaskets shortly.
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THE CRITICS
Bunny Punia
Pedal to metal in a luxury vehicle all day long does not mean adventure RECENTLY A FRIEND OF mine did a 1440km run from New Delhi to Mumbai in his new C segment sedan. The other day when I spoke to him, he was going all gaga over the road trip and how the journey was full of adventure and utterly enjoyable. What the heck I thought for he had a comfortable modern day car with a powerful engine and driver assist features like ABS, EBD, et all and all he probably had to do was sit like a monkey holding the steering wheel and stomp the
AFTER UMPTEEN FAILED ATTEMPTS TO GET HOLD OF A NEW TYRE, YOU HAVE TO MAKE DO WITH A LOWER PROFILE, WORN OUT ONE AS A BACKUP FROM A HALF DRUNK MECHANIC AT A CLOSED PUNCTURE SHOP accelerator from morning till late night. Even your grand mum can repeat the same feat in a similar car I reckon. In my opinion, what really translates into an adventurous drive is this. You pick up an eight year old hatch with 1,55,000km on the odometer and decide to drive it all the way from New Delhi to Davanagere in Karnataka – a distance of 2150km. That too during the peak of North India’s scorching summers! You fill up the tiny fuel tank to the brim and set off for a trip that will take you across five states. With so many 20
kilometers on the odometer, it is best to keep the car steady at around the ton mark on the NH-8. Lack of ABS and other aids mean you have to concentrate hard on the road for any suicidal people or idiotic drivers. Play in the steering wheel means you have to keep correcting it every other second and poor NVH levels start irritating you within an hour. The old music system doesn’t play CDs which means you have to be content with listening to ‘90s music on redundant cassette tapes. With all this, you still manage to bypass Jaipur 255km from the start point in three hours. The fantastic Jaipur-Ajmer highway makes you want to push the little 1.0litre engine more but certain noises from the car including a peculiar metallic sound from the front wheel makes you back off. By the time you reach Udaipur (700km, 9.5 hours), the fan motor of the air-con becomes hot and you have to switch it off. Sudden heavy rains and darkness combined with weak headlamps further reduce your average speeds. What’s more, you soon hear the front left tyre bursting and have to use the spare one only to realize that it is as old as the car itself! After umpteen failed attempts to get hold of a new tyre, you have to make do with a lower profile, worn out one as a backup from a half drunk mechanic at a closed puncture shop. You sleep on the Ahmedabad-Baroda expressway, inside the car, for three hours. The horrible traffic near Surat gets on your nerves easily and average speeds on a national highway that is a part of the Golden
Quadrilateral are reduced to 30-35km/h. Huge speeding Volvo buses try to run you off the road and you finally take a break for breakfast (and to answer nature’s call) at a road side joint and continue towards your destination. By the time you bypass Mumbai via Thane and onto the Pune expressway, the eight year old tyre gets a couple of bulges on its circumference, sending vibrations to the steering wheel each time it rotates. You can’t help but stick to 80km/h with almost everyone overtaking you, all the way to Pune but before you touch base, the tyre bursts, again! The worn out, lower profile tyre that you got for a hundred bucks comes to the rescue. You finally make it to Pune in 31 hours. And oh, by the way, what seemed like a tiny crack on the windshield before you set off from Delhi soon turns into a big crack running across its length thanks to all those bad roads the little car had to negotiate. A new set of tyres, a new windscreen and a service later, you set off for the last 575km leg to Davanagere, covering it in seven hours. Now, this is what qualifies as a real, adventurous road trip. By the way, ‘you’ in the above lines refers to me and the trip was done on my old family car last year. I see no reason why the same little Maruti cannot repeat the feat next year as well. You don’t need a top of the line SUV or a luxury sedan to embark on a thousand mile trip. What you need is a simple route plan, a little faith in an old set of wheels and some common sense. b.punia@nextgenpublishing.net
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Gavin Green
It’s time to put the car before the horse NOW THAT THE ENTIRE car business has been shaken and stirred (bankruptcy of General Motors, takeover of Chrysler by Fiat, Porsche and Volkswagen to join – and that’s just last month’s news) perhaps it is now time to reinvent the car as well as the industry that produces it. Just as General Motors got ever bigger and more unwieldy, so too has the average car. Engineers start with yesterday’s fleshy offerings when they conceive new cars. It’s a bit like God being tasked with reinventing the human race and starting with Queen Latifah or Meatloaf. Instead, they should embark with clean slates and clear heads. The typical car we drive today is a distant descendant of the horse-drawn carriage, which began its equine-free life, late in the 19th century, as too big, too costly, too unwieldy and too smelly. That is all still true. It has evolved slowly ever since Karl Benz drove the first commercially available horseless carriage into a wall. Due to the financial success of the motor industry (except over the past year!), the cheapness of oil and the perceived innocuousness (until recently) of oil’s by-products, there has been little incentive to innovate or ‘think different’. So the car has plodded along, updated, substantially improved, occasionally overhauled but not reborn. It has proved popular and given great pleasure. For much of its history, it has served us well; it has mobilised our lifestyles and liberated our minds. But, as we head for the second decade of a new millennium, the average car now looks increasingly ill-suited to the demands and challenges of
the modern world. There have been noble attempts at reform, from Issigonis’s Mini to Giacosa’s baby Fiats, from Colin Chapman’s early Lotuses to André Citroën’s 5CV Cloverleaf and Traction Avant, from Fergus Pollock’s Renault Espace to Gordon Murray’s upcoming T25 – all brilliant examples of automotive efficiency. Much more recently, there has been the Tata Nano, the most commendably different car of the past few years, and the first sign of automotive genius from Asia’s emerging tarmac tigers. But many innovative cars, and innovators, have been washed away by the inherent conservatism of the business, now carefully under the surveillance of accountants. The absence of free-thinking intellectuals – attracted to architecture and civil engineering but not the motor industry – has also hamstrung progress. I put it to you, just as I have to many car engineers and designers (none has demurred) that, if a dozen of the world’s best auto brains spent a week thinking of the ideal ‘personal mobility device’ (let us not call it a ‘car’), they would emerge with something very different from today’s typical hatchback. If you were starting from scratch would you really design a machine that weighed about 1200kg (the Golf, Europe’s best-selling car)? That’s 1125kg more than (or 16 times as much as) the family man designed to drive it. In America, of course, the average much-favoured SUV is about double that, though the machine:man weight ratio wouldn’t alter as much. Would you equip your most common vehicle with an internal
combustion ‘piston’ engine that operates wastefully for much of its cycle? A recent study in Tokyo concluded that drivers spend 47% of their time in traffic, engines idling uselessly. Would you really devote only just over half of the fore-aft space to carrying people? The original Mini managed 80%. And would you give your mainstream car five seats? After all, 80% of the time, cars run with one person on board. Of the many statistics that damn the inefficiency of most modern cars, perhaps the most
TATA NANO, THE MOST COMMENDABLY DIFFERENT CAR OF THE PAST FEW YEARS, IS THE FIRST SIGN OF AUTOMOTIVE GENIUS FROM ASIA’S EMERGING TARMAC TIGERS revealing is this. The car’s predecessor as dominant personal mobility device, the bicycle, weighs about 10kg (less for a good road bike such as my Condor). Of course, a car needs more carrying capacity and offers far more versatility; it is a more sophisticated, if less efficient, machine, and surely one of higher potential. But does this justify a weight increase of 120 times (compared with a Golf) – and often much more? The key difference is that the bicycle, like the motorcycle that followed, was designed from the outset to be man-sized. Cars, on the other hand, were initially dimensioned to suit the size of a horse.
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INBOX
What do you think? What have you been up to? What do you like? What’s just ruined your day? Tell us. Write to: CAR INDIA, 401B, Gandhi Empire, 2 Sareen Estate, Kondhwa Road, Pune - 411 040. INDIA. Email: carindia@nextgenpublishing.net
L O ET M F TE O TH R N E TH
about whether I was reading a foreign magazine or an Indian one. The R8, the 911, the Stirling Moss SLR and the Scuderia Spider all in one issue with the Veyron Grand Sport, phew! I’ve always had a soft spot for the Veyron despite the sheer madness and the ‘misinformed’ logic that prompted its development. It’s like a small child let loose with a cannon and that is what makes cars like this one, in this politically correct world, so damn desirable. Very soon, the self righteous authorities are going to make cars like the Veyron illegal or at the very least, illegal for the street. Put the pedal to the metal and let it rip while the time lasts with the wind in your hair and all that. Sameer Anand, Orissa
MODDED VEHICLES Your August issue was a real treat for us readers. First of all, I would like to congratulate you guys on turning four. Even though you have been in the industry for a lesser time as compared to other automobile magazines, your work is quite strong. There is one thing that I miss in your magazine though. There is absolutely no information on modified cars or souped up tuner machines. We would like to have some inputs on those fronts as well. In a country like India, there are hundreds of people who prefer buying a car like the Swift and then tuning it up to perform ruthlessly. I hope to see some more articles in this regard. Mohit Khanvilkar, Kanpur We have taken note of your point and trust us, you aren’t the first one cribbing about the lack of features on modded cars. Rest assured, we have a couple of exciting things lined up for the future. Stay tuned!
BE A NEXT-GENNER
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on the road, I would like to say, that most of the ladies are far better than the rash male drivers. I feel that the Jazz is a wonderful package and Honda has a long term winner on their hands. I am currently driving a Honda City (a secondhand buy) but now I feel like replacing it with the new Jazz. Thanks for the wonderful review and pictures of the car model. Keep up the good job. Suprotip Banerjee, Kolkata DESIRABLE VEYRON
ABUNDANT EXOTICS This month, I was really scared to venture out due to the flu scare and, for a moment, I thought I would miss the anniversary issue of my favourite magazine. But the heavens heard my prayers and somehow I got my copy of the August issue. And boy, was I impressed or was I impressed! The cover photo - clearly a digitally edited one - was enough to get my adrenaline pumping and the inside was even better. How on earth do you people manage to lay your hands on such exotics every month and sometimes two or three in a month? It’s not fair. Arjun Kasyap, Pune P
www.carindia.in
RIGHT DIRECTION Thank you very much for including a girl’s point of view in your esteemed magazine’s Honda Jazz review story. It was very nice and informative from a lady driver’s perspective. Also it has added a wonderful colour to the story. I think this is a healthy trend that you people are following as I feel that lady drivers have been neglected by automobile magazines. Though some of my close friends feel that some of the lady drivers create havoc
LIRJB PPRB RDRPQ
200MPH
INDIA SIVE EXCLU ONAL
TI SENSA ARS! C SUPER G & 911 Turbo AM R8, SL63
ROADSTERS SLR Sterling Moss, Ferrari 16M Scuderia & Bugatti Grand Sport
FEATURES
TESTED
CI Top 10 Cars Fuel Efficiency Test Rear Seat Comfort India’s Quickest Cars
The August issue was the ideal way to cap off your anniversary celebrations. The content page had me confused for a while
PUBLISHING
AUDI’S CENTENARY
Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara 2.4 i20 1.4 vs Fabia 1.4 Punto 1.3 vs Ritz Vdi
MITSUBISHI CEDIA SPORT
JAZZ & SUPERB TRAVELOGUES
#ô-ô9ô+
We are looking for smart minds to work for Next Gen Publishing. So if you’re either into content development or in the marketing field email us your updated resume at: hr@nextgenpublishing.net or call us on: Pune (020) 32930291 Mumbai (022) 43525221 Delhi (011) 42345678
CAR India SEPTEMBER 2009
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ADS Sept09.indd 63
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ADS Sept09.indd 59
8/25/2009 2:42:33 PM
BOSCH TECHNO BIBLE
THE A TO Z OF AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY
Targa
Somewhat similar to convertible cars, but the difference is that a Targa features a fixed, roll-bar-like metal band running
Tailpipe expander from side to side behind the front seats. Porsche had popularised this type of cars with 911 Targa model.
It’s a type of special automotive tool that is used to expand, rounds out and reshape tailpipes evenly. The tailpipe expander come handy in preventing exhaust leaks as well.
TD wheel
An advanced wheel type with runflat properties. The wheel set includes a TD rim that has two gooves running around its both sides. The tire with a special extended bead toes fit into these grooves. Even in case of a puncture, the reinforced bead toes of tyre don’t slide into the rim well. Flat TD wheels allow driving more than 30 km at a maximum speed of 64 kmph.
Tail light
The rear red lights that illuminate when you switch on the headlights are called tail lights. These are different from brake lights (which illuminates only when you apply brakes). The role of tail lights are to increase visibility for others behind the car.
Bosch Electronic Battery Sensor
Bosch’s Electronic Battery Sensor (EBS) helps in avoiding the most common cause of breakdowns - a flat battery. With its integrated evaluation electronics, the sensor measures the battery voltage, current, and temperature, calculating from these all the information that describes the condition of the car battery. The energy management system incorporated in modern cars uses these values to continuously guarantee sufficient battery energy,
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so that the vehicle can be started reliably even after a long stationary period. The Bosch EBS consists of a chip that contains all the electronics and a shunt for current measurement. These two components along with the pole terminal form a unit that can be connected directly to the car battery as they fit into the pole niche of standard automotive batteries. This yields to significant savings in both space and costs over solutions used hitherto.
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Synthetic engine oil
This is a non-petroleum based engine oil. The synthetic product is usually more resistant to breakdown at high temperatures and less viscous at low temperatures, hence scores over the conventional engine oil. However, it’s more expensive as well.
Tachometer
Also called as a ‘rev counter’, it indicates the speed of an engine in rpm (rounds per minute). The tachometer reading helps a driver to judge the right time to change gears. The instrument also helps in determining an satisfactory engineidling speed and suitable settings for carburettor.
Telescopic steering column
The type of steering column which collapses in on impact. Such columns are designed to collapse telescopically when hit with certain amount of force by driver’s body on the steering wheel. The course of action absorbs some impact energy and plays a major role in saving life. Many newgeneration cars have started offering this as a standard safety feature these days.
Synchromesh transmission
Synchromesh transmission is a manual transmission unit equipped to synchronise speeds of gears that are being shifted together. The unit has a device (synchromesh) that prevents gear grinding and smoothens meshing of two gears. While some transmissions are designed to use synchromesh on all gear shifts, some other use it only for second and higher gears shifts.
Tapered roller bearing
A roller bearing with shape like a slice of a cone. The rollers are on the tapering side of the unit set between an outer and inner steel race. Such bearings are used in
critical friction points that put forward both radial and axial thrust loads. The shape of these bearings are designed to handle axial thrust while supporting shaft location.
System pressure regulator
It’s a device with a pressure relief valve to regulate fuel pressure. The regulator maintains a constant system fuel pressure in a continuous injection system. Some devices are also designed for maintaining variable fuel pressure.
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GEAR BOX
COOL STUFF THAT’S RELATED TO MOTORING IN SOME WAY OR THE OTHER
GO BLING
Spruce up your Porsche with these latest items from the Porsche Design virtuosos 1. PORSCHE DESIGN P66750 WORLDTIMER & PANAMERA TURBO CHRONOGRAPH Crafted from exotic materials like rose gold and displaying two time zones at once, these watches are ideal for checking your lap times round the ‘Ring. Or the casino tables in Vegas.
2. PORSCHE DESIGN P8433 RETRO SUNGLASSES
Roadsters mean sunglasses, period. Add a touch of retro chic with these gold rimmed sunglasses. In cases you don’t like the featured lens (but why won’t you?), you can change it with other lens from the Porsche Design stable.
3. PORSCHE DESIGN SHOULDER & TOILETRIES BAG
Cart all the things needed to keep your 911 clean in the shoulder bag. Cart all the things needed to keep yourself clean in the toiletries bag.
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The Panamera accommodates the most number of girlfriends so it is only fitting that it should comfortably accommodate their Prada collection too. Now it will, thanks to these Panamera branded aluminum trolleys in various colours and advanced safety features.
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1
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4. PORSCHE PANAMERA TROLLEY
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FIRST DRIVE MERCEDES-BENZ E 350
E
veryone in India who claims to be a car buff will recognize an E-class at a glance. The distinct round twin headlamps and the towering threepointed star atop the shimmering front grille give it away. Beep! Time to update your facts. Mercedes will be launching the new E-class in India later this month and this time the trademark twins give way to a sexy pair of angular dual headlamps. The latest E is lower and wider with improved aerodynamics and has a drag co-efficient of 0.25 making archrivals cringe with theirs at 0.28. The designers have aptly used LED lights making the car look dynamic yet understated. The car is spacious from inside thanks to the enhanced wheelbase. The bucket style seats give great support and are very comfortable especially the rear seats. The interior of the E 350 does remind me of its younger sibling, the C-class and even the big daddy S-class to a certain extent. With seven airbags to protect you at all times, you’ll feel safe in here. But hey, where’s the blessed gear knob? The E 350 flaunts a sophisticated electronic gear selector, located on the steering column, which is fantastically simple to use. While probing a little more, I was happy to see an integrated entertainment screen sitting on the dashboard. The easy to operate rotary dial for the entertainment system makes use of the transmission 28
tunnel. The steering feels firm and is devoid of unnecessary play. The ‘Comfort’ suspension setting made me sway as if I was under the spell of a tantrik, though the ‘Sport’ was more to my liking. But somehow, I fail to understand why Mercedes designers have been so conservative with the size of the ORVMs? From the S-class to the ML and now the E class, the size of the wing mirrors is too small especially for overcrowded Indian roads. The overall fit and finish is amazing and it looks modern and up market. Let’s head towards the heart now. Under the hood hides a beastly 3498cc V6 petrol engine with an automatic 7-G TRONIC transmission. This is a big petrol engine and does perform very well. This is no sports car and I never expected it to roar like one but the E does feel a lot sportier and fun to drive than its predecessor. I was
absolutely blown away by the transmission as it delivers absolutely jerk free power even at low speeds. Mercedes has managed to squeeze the right amount of luxury and sportiness into the E350. It is a fantastic option for those who prefer to be driven to work during the weekdays and like driving to their weekend getaways. car
The electronic gear selector is located on the steering column, similar to the ML and the S-class, and is fantastically simple to use
Mercedes-Benz E350 Avantgarde The E350 Avantgarde variant will be launched in India this month
The car that we got our hands on was the E 350 Elegance but the E 350 Avantgarde variant with slightly different features will be launched in India. Mercedes has decided to introduce all-black interiors and a black ash wood trim along with a sporty instrument cluster in a silver panel with five tubes in the E 350’s Indian version. The tail lights sport LED turn indicators and will have one louver less in the front grille. The super cool 17-inch five double spoke wheels are to die for.
The i
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u
NEED TO KNOW
Mercedes-Benz E350 Price
Rs 50 lakh (Approx)
Engine
3498cc, V6 Petrol, 268PS 350Nm
Transmission
Seven-speed automatic, rear wheel drive
Performance
NA
Weight
1735kg
Wheelbase (mm) 2874
That
Ecstatic
The E-class has been a lucky mascot for Mercedes in India but will the joyride continue as the firm gears up to unveil the new E 350?
drive
Words and Photography: Sarmad Kadiri
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FIRST DRIVE NEW TOYOTA CAMRY
O
ver the years, the Toyota Camry has secured itself a place in the niche segment of premium cars in the Indian market. It has always been an exclusive statement of style, luxury and performance for Toyota in India. However, the car did not see any upgrades since the launch of its latest generation version. In a continuously changing market, it is quite necessary to introduce the latest features, utile upgrades and cosmetic changes to keep attracting the customers. Toyota did just the
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right thing by introducing the facelifted version of the Camry last month. The car features some new cosmetic bits here and there along with a few highly useful features in the cabin. The firm has slipped in chrome outlined fog lamps in the slightly refreshed front bumper, LED turn indicators in the exterior RVMs and multi reflector headlamps housed on either side of the reprofiled front grille. The Camry also gets a set of new ten-spoke alloy wheels to enhance the attitude of the premium
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1. The white backlit music console looks stunning at night 2. The steering wheel now gets audio and AC controls 3. The slightly reprofiled front grille adds aggression to the front end of the Camry
saloon. Inside, the car boasts a huge interior space. The leather upholstery welcomes you to the plush interiors which define elegance and grace in every possible manner. Toyota has introduced a ‘Minus Ion Generator’ feature in the airconditioner of the Camry. It filters out all the germs and bacteria outside the car and allows only fresh and germ-free air in the car giving the consumer healthy driving conditions. Also the dual vents ensure that the driver and passenger can set their own AC temperatures to suit their
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individual comfort levels. The steering wheel of the facelifted Camry sports audio controls for the Psychoacoustics music system and controls to set the AC temperature. Another button on the steering wheel toggles between the stats provided by the multi-information display in the instrumentation console. A lever behind the steering wheel has been offered which allows you to get into cruise control mode for highway drives. On the performance front, nothing changes in the Camry as it
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4.The Camry now gets a new fivespeed ECT which ensures smooth gearshifts 5. The ten-spoke alloy wheels add flair to the Camry’s styling
still sports the same 2.4-litre four cylinder engine as the earlier iteration. The motor produces 167PS of peak power and 224Nm of max torque. However, what is new in the automatic transmission Camry is the five-speed ECT (Electronically Controlled Transmission). The ECT makes sure that the gearshifts are smooth and offer linear acceleration. The Camry features an array of safety equipment including six SRS airbags, collapsible steering column, Vehicle Stability Control,
ABS with EBD and brake assist. Toyota has also introduced a safety feature known as Whiplash Injury Lessening or WIL Concept Seat which prevents neck injuries in case of a rear end collision. While all these safety features and driver aids have been offered by Toyota, it is quite surprising to see that they have missed out on the basic parking assist feature on the new Camry. The Camry has been offered in four variants which come with a high price tag between Rs 21 and 25 lakh (approximate OTR, Pune). car
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Toyota slips in a facelifted version of the Camry with a few cosmetic and utilitarian upgrades to keep up with the continuously advancing market
Camry Refreshed Words and Photography: Adhish Alawani
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ROAD TEST RANGE ROVER SPORT
BRIT BOOTY Money can buy style but class is a little harder to come by. The new Range Rover Sport, however, seems to deliver both reckons Bunny Punia
Photography Sanjay Raikar 32
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W
HEN THE SPORT version was added to the Range Rover stable a few years ago, not everyone appreciated the idea. This cut price sports tourer was seen unworthy of the brand but it soon created a niche for itself in the market. Plus the fact that Land Rover’s designation of this Range Rover as a Sport model suggested that it handled on-road duties better than its stable mates and hence would appeal to a diverse section of buyers. Abroad, when the likes of the BMW X5 and the Mercedes ML joined the high-class SUV fraternity, the Land Rover style became fashionable almost by accident. The company seemed to have been caught by surprise with the sudden competition but calmly responded with a new superb offering that cashed in on every bit of its off-road heritage and yet was made for the
city. Before TATA bought over JLR, the latter had already seen two major parent companies, BMW and Ford, nurturing it and fine tuning its products. In fact, it seems that Ford did a favour to TATA by selling JLR at a time when its portfolio was beaming with classy and desirable products. It has been a luck by chance story for the Indian company and hoping to cash in on the opportunity to the max, TATA has rolled out some of the products in the Indian market as well. The Range Rover Sports looks quintessential Land Rover. Yes, it does carry over the big, square and buffed design angles with flabby sides. But it also comes with an imposing feel that will have traffic getting out of its way and people stopping dead in their paths. In short, it looks very English! The SUV also gets neat touches that
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ROAD TEST RANGE ROVER SPORT
take it beyond the simply squarish look. For instance, the three classy horizontal drilled grilles or the side vents and race derived Brembo brake callipers visible clearly behind those elegant 20-inch alloy wheels. The Sport tag distinguishes itself from the regular Range Rover model with the use of snazzier design elements. In fact, it is based on the Discover 3 platform with 14cm chopped off the wheelbase. It also sits lower and this adds a sporty touch giving it a dynamic appeal even at standstill. The squarish lines are carried over to the interiors as well. Of course you immediately notice how tall you are perched inside and how cozy the interiors are thanks to the wide intruding transmission tunnel, but 34
the cabin is classy with expensive materials used in abundance. The design lines, however, really don’t stand up to the price of the car. For instance, the Harman Kardon system that sounds good doesn’t really look very modern. Its little display unit is very ‘90s to be frank. The four aircon vents upfront look the same while the upper part of the fascia is too simple. The steering wheel is on the larger side with two slim vertical buttons for the horn. The power window switch is placed just too far off from the driver’s reach towards the extreme end of the door. There is a small chilled box beneath the driver’s armrest which is a good touch. The seats, a mix of leather and suede, are comfortable both at
The Range Rover Sport comes across as a welcome entrant in a segment that is dominated by the German trio
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the front and the rear though the knee room at the rear could have been better. The Sport is a strict five-seater with no provision for two small seats at the rear, however, it means you get a huge boot to stack away anything including a couple of golf kits and big British Asprey suitcases for a trip to the airport. Now let’s talk about what moves this 2675 kilogram beast. Under the hood are eight cylinders, each of which is fed by a variable geometry turbocharger, firing the 3.8-litre twin-turbo diesel engine that produces not only an impressive 275PS of power but also a tyre shredding torque of 640Nm! That’s double of what TATA’s own ‘sports’ utility vehicle, the Safari manages.
Most importantly, it comes in at a low 2000rpm. The first thing that you notice is how quiet and refined the motor really is. It’s hard to tell there is big lump of an oil burner sitting between the front wheels even when you are going pedal to metal. And when doing so, the porky Brit manages a naught to hundred time of just over nine seconds, that too with the slightly slow responding sixspeed auto ‘box. However, there is a remedy for this – flick the gear lever to the left into sport mode and it tightens up the shift action, reducing the time lag before gear changes. But that’s not what the Sport is all about. It is the way this vehicle manages to surprise you with its abilities to not only laze around on the highway
The 3.6-litre engine is silky smooth for an oil burner. The interiors look and feel rich but the quality of buttons / switchgear could have been better. The second row of seats can be flipped cleverly to liberate more space for luggage
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ROAD TEST RANGE ROVER SPORT
The Range Rover Sports’ design is an interesting mix of modern elements into a body shell that basically has been the same for ages now. But it works, especially those gorgeous 20-inch alloy wheels!
doing 150 odd kilometers per hour but also its brilliant performance in traffic. The throttle response is terrific and the throaty roar from the twin exhausts is a good way to cheese off some of its German rivals. With its tall and heavy look, you wouldn’t really expect a vehicle of this mass to handle like a lightweight SUV. But surprisingly, it does. Well almost. The long list of electronic stability controls, traction and suspension gadgetry work in tandem to make it feel much like a large sized sports vehicle. Of course you are always well aware of its hefty mass and can’t throw it around corners with reckless abandon, but even if 36
you do, the active anti-roll bars with hydraulic motors stiffen them up depending on the cornering load. The feedback from the steering isn’t anything to rave about especially at high speeds. Though the Sport cannot match the dynamics of its German rivals, it makes up by providing a very balanced and comfortable ride as speeds build up. The Sport performs well on the road, looks too good to be a real offroader and has interiors to match its colossal pricing. So does that mean its off-roading abilities take a back seat? Not really. You get permanent four-wheel drive and ofcourse Land Rover’s famed all terrain response
Facing page: The terrain response knob behind the gear lever along with the differential lock and hill descent switch. The speedometer console is rather simple - note the overall 6.5kmpl figure that the Sport managed during the photo shoot. The boot capacity can be further extended by folding the second row
system. The small silver knob behind the gear lever is the terrain response knob. Pop it out and you can choose between five different modes (which are displayed in the large screen upfront). Then you also get to play with the transfer case as well as raise the ride height to negotiate really bad roads plus a hill descent control –features we doubt most owners will ever exploit to the max though. The Range Rover Sport comes across as a welcome entrant in a segment that is dominated by the German trio. That said, it has enough going in its favour to lure buyers – the styling is very posh, modern and sharp. The high end
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car Road Test #132
Overall height 1817mm
RANGE ROVER SPORT TDV8 (Rs 77.5 ex-showroom) 11112
Wheelbase 2745mm Overall length 4798mm Width(excluding mirrors) 2170mm Front track 1605mm Rear track 1612mm Kerb weight 2675 kg
SPECIFICATIONS ENGINE Cylinders Engine Layout Fuel supply Bore/stroke Cubic capacity Compression ratio Valvegear
Eight, V configuration Longitudinal Diesel 81.0 x 88.0 3630cc 17.3:1 4 valves per cyl
ENGINE OUTPUT Max power (PS) Power peak (rpm) Red line (rpm) Max torque (Nm) Torque peak (rpm)
272 4000 5000 640 2000
TRANSMISSION Forward speeds, Six-speed Auto 1st gear 2nd gear
4.171 2.340
3rd gear 4th gear 5th gear 6th gear
1.521 1.143 0.867 0.691
Reverse gear Final drive Drive wheels
3.403 3.540 AWD
WHEELS AND TYRES Wheel size Tyre size
SUSPENSION FrontElectronic air suspension, wishbones, active anti-roll bars Rear Electronic air suspension, wishbones, active anti-roll bars ACCOMODATION Seating Head Room, F/R Leg Room F(max/min) KneeRoomR(max/min) Shoulder space Fuel tank Boot space
20” 275/40 R20
BRAKES Front Rear
360mm dia disc 360mm dia disc
5 890/970mm 1180/970 990/730mm 1350mm 84 liters NA
DRIVER AIDS Six airbags, ABS, EBD, adjustable steering, ORVMs, day/night RVM
STEERING Type Power assisted hydraulic rack and pinion Lock to lock 3.1 turns
TEST RESULTS
(though slightly cramped) and cozy interiors plus a great driving experience try hard to tempt a prospective buyer. The Sport has almost everything going in its favour including great off-roading credentials as well. But wait a minute. Do you really think a person spending close to a crore (on the road) would really go mud splashing on weekends with his pals? The only real chink in the armor I believe is its pricing. At Rs 77.25 lakh (exshowroom, Mumbai), it is hard for me to justify those extra 15-20 lakh rupees that a prospective owner would be spending over the other offerings in the Indian market. car
SPEEDO ERROR (km/h) True Speedo 19.6 20 39.2 40 58.8 60 78.1 80 98.2 100 MAXIMUM SPEED (km/h) 208 215 OVERTAKING ACCELERATION (kick down, in seconds) Roll-ons 40-60 2.38 60-80 80-100 2.96 100-120
PERFORMANCE FACTORS Power/mass (PS/tonne) Power/litre (PS/litre) Torque/litre (Nm/litre)
130.2 81.9 168.52
9.60s
100
2.44 3.93
BRAKING TEST From 80km/h to 0 From 100km/h to 0
25.06m/2.30s 40.81m/2.96s
Design & Style: Powertrain: Performance: Fuel Efficiency: Dynamic Ability:
11112 11111 11111 1111 1111
7.01
80
4.49s
60
ACCELERATION (km/h)
2.50s
40
1.16s
20 0
550m above MSL Warm, windless, dry
13.25s
120
FUEL CONSUMPTION City 6.1 kmpl Highway 9.5 kmpl Overall* 6.95 kmpl * Overall is 25% highway and 75% city driving
CAR RATING
TEST CONDITIONS Altitude Weather
TIME, SECONDS 0
0-400metres sprint: Terminal speed:
Space: Creature Comforts: Driver Appeal: Safety: Interiors:
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
22
17.08s 134.99km/h
1km sprint: Terminal speed:
31.06s 170.61km/h
11112 11111 11112 11111 11111
Suspension: Ride Quality: Handling: Steering: Braking:
11112 11112 1111 11112 11111
CAR INDIA’s test and performance data is the sole copyright of Next Gen Publishing Ltd. No part of the data or text can be used in any form for any purpose or promotion or advertisement without the explicit written permission of the editor. Performance testing by Aspi Bhathena
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SHOOTOUT AUDI Q7 vs RIVALS
SURVIVAL OF THE BIGGEST
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IS THE REVAMPED AUDI Q7 RUFFLED BY THE PRESENCE OF THE BMW X5 AND MERCEDES ML?
Story Bunny Punia Photography Sanjay Raikar CAR India SEPTEMBER 2009
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Shootout AUDI Q7 vs RIVALS
I was part of the three SUV convoy as we battled hard against Pune’s rush hour traffic, negotiating our way slowly towards the highway. In a city that’s gasping for breath when it comes to the ever diminishing road space, driving three king sized sports utility vehicles can get on your nerves. At the same time, driving one of these can make you feel like a king. Of course those suicidal two-wheeler riders and maniac auto-rickshaw walas are hard to keep at bay, but all it takes is a touch of the loud horn and sometimes revving the engine hard to keep them at a distance. After a good half hour of annoying slow speed driving, we reached the open highway. It was almost pedal to metal once we got onto the expressway and the sight of three majestic vehicles cruising down the multi-lane highway at crazy speeds must have surely sent shivers down most other drivers’ spines. All it took were a couple of flashes of the headlamps to make way for us. Once past the first toll plaza, it was time to regroup and plan our shoot location. Every single vehicle that passed us slowed down and had the occupants glancing at the German marques before continuing their journey. What we have here are three of the best premium oil burner SUVs in the country ready for a battle of the supreme. This is not only a SUV slugfest but also a fist fight between three archrivals from the same land – the refreshed Audi Q7, the BMW X5 and the Mercedes-Benz ML. May the biggest and the mightiest survive.
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T
he current generation BMW X5 is the oldest of the trio here and the fact is quite evident from the way it looks. You get a la BMW family face up front with the characteristic twin kidney shaped grilles and the flowing headlamps with the ‘bangle ring’ effect. The fog lamps are relatively smaller and the idea of having a matte black effect for the lower part of the whole body is nice. This runs across the entire side line as well as under the wheel arches giving a slightly raw and robust look. Additionally, the running floor board with dotted rubber looks good and the five spoke 18-inch alloy wheels are sporty. At the rear, the design lines are rather boring
and look slightly dated. Overall, in the company of the other two vehicles, the X5 has to try hard to grab attention on the road. The interiors carry over the same design lines – typical BMW. They would have been great in say 2006, but with the competition pushing the game ahead, the insides really don’t stand out in terms of design. Mind you, the quality remains top notch. At night, the illumination of the console leaves a lot to be desired. However getting in is very easy, in fact, the easiest of the lot here. There is ample leg space up front for a tall driver and you don’t have to push the seat all the way back to be comfortable. The foot well area too is generous and there
are six decent sized air-con vents for the front passengers. At the rear, tall passengers won’t have a reason to complain. You also get four air-con vents, controls for the audio system and seats that recline back. Although there are two small seats at the back, it is best to fold them down and utilize the generous boot space which also comes with a twin boot gate concept. The BMW is powered by a 2993cc in-line six-cylinder engine that churns out 221PS of power with 480Nm of torque. Now these figures are not class leading but the overall low weight of the vehicle along with a responsive ‘box means that the Beemer is the quickest off the block. In fact, it even manages to whisk past the Q7 in the 0100km/h acceleration, but the difference is very marginal. Driving the X5 is a revelation and enthusiasts will love the performance that the engine has to offer. On the flipside, the motor is quite noisy, both at idling as well as while pushing it hard. But I am not complaining for the X5 is always eager in responding to throttle dabs, no matter what speeds it is doing. The heavy steering wheel isn’t what you would like for city driving though. The gear changes are very evident and can be irritating in regular city driving. Being a BMW, one would assume the suspension to be on the stiffer side. It is, but doesn’t translate into an uncomfortable ride. At slow speeds, big bumps and potholes do CAR India september 2009
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1
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Shootout AUDI Q7 vs RIVALS shake up the occupants but as speeds rise, there is no way other vehicles can feel the way the X5 does. Driving it back after the shoot on the expressway reconfirmed the fact that it does complete justice to the blue and white logo on the hood and is an enthusiast’s car, err, SUV. The high speed dynamics of this SUV is something its rivals still cannot match up too. Even while cruising over the rather bumpy cement blocks on the expressway, it felt the most reassuring as well as the calmest among the trio. The X5 retails for Rs 54.4 lakh for the normal variant and Rs 61.2 lakh for the highline version (exshowroom prices). Now, that makes buying the xDrive30d a very good option given the fact that it is a technological masterpiece. It has all the integrated driving systems you’d expect from a high end performance BMW vehicle and then some. This
BMW SAV (as they call it Sports Activity Vehicle) was once the performance king of premium SUVs in India but the game has moved forward in the last year. While I was in the backup vehicle following the three SUVs on the expressway, the ML clearly stood out, at least when viewed from the back. The spare wheel is where it should always be, in my opinion, and it gives the Merc’s rear a rather purposeful chunky look. The ML looks quite fresh from the front. In fact, it looks the freshest of the lot. The three striking horizontal grilles with the big three-pointed star and two air intake grilles on the hood give it a mean look. The wheel arches are a little pronounced but the alloy wheels are rather simple. As compared to the use of black on the BMW, you get to see a lot of chrome on the Merc – the roof rails, the window beadings, the
chrome stripping running across the side of the doors and even the floor board. The ML too gets twin exhausts at the rear but the execution here seems much better. The vehicle is the slimmest yet the tallest of the lot here yet it doesn’t look absurd from any angle. The fresh exterior lines are carried over to the inside as well. The moment you step into the Merc after the BMW, you are in for a pleasant surprise. The beige and brown interiors shout quality and again the use of chrome is abundant at places like the steering wheel and the circumference of the air vents to name a few. The seats are supportive but have to be pushed all the way back to make a tall driver comfortable. But there is no dead pedal and no electronic adjustment for the steering wheel– the problem here is that almost every feature is on the options list. Look closely and
The best just got better! 1. The driver centric cabin manages to better the rivals. Note the MMI interface, the Bang & Olufsen system and the generous foot well area. 2. We got the top of the line S-Line model which came loaded to the brim with almost all the goodies. 3. The 3.0-litre TDI engine gets more power yet it is cleaner for the environment as well. 4. At the press of a button, you can lower the loading sill. Note the adjustable silver ‘barrier’ to keep bags in place. 5. The rear indicator too gets the LED treatment. 6. Now that is one place I wouldn’t mind being in instead of the driver’s seat. No really! 7. An array of buttons for the MMI interface, starting the engine, the audio system, setting up the car, etc surround the gear lever
2
3
4
7
5 6
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SHOOTOUT AUDI Q7 vs RIVALS
THIS IS NOT ONLY A SUV SLUGFEST BUT ALSO A FIST FIGHT BETWEEN THREE ARCHRIVALS FROM THE SAME LAND
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the black plastic surrounding the audio system too seems out of place. With the absence of a gear lever, there is a lot of room for knick knacks and the cup holders are surrounded by rich wood. At the rear you get ample legroom and the deep knee recesses at the back of the front seats are a nice touch. The ML is a five-seater but that helps liberate a very generous flat boot. The Merc, like the other two SUVs, is also powered by a 3.0-litre engine. It is smooth in operation and the maximum power of 227PS is developed at the lowest in class 3800rpm. The maximum torque rating stands at 510Nm, again at a low 1600rpm all the way to 2800rpm. Though this should have made the ML the most responsive on paper, the fact is that it isn’t. The gearbox is really not very eager to respond quickly to throttle inputs in my opinion. Outright acceleration sees the big Merc flying past the ton mark in 9.3 seconds, the slowest here, though by a fraction of a
second. As speeds build up, the strong engine retains its thrust and you never really feel short on power. The seven speed ‘box can also be controlled manually via the paddle shifts on the steering wheel. The Merc drives exceedingly well in city traffic. The engine is pretty smooth and silent and goes about does it duty without making itself very evident. In fact the SUV drives like a typical Mercedes – sober, calm and uninviting (for the enthusiasts).The full size spare wheel blocks your view in the RVM and the small exterior mirrors don’t let you see the vehicles behind until they are quite close to the SUV. The steering wheel isn’t too heavy and responds well to the driver’s inputs and the suspension feels comfortably soft when left in the comfort mode. However, hit a bad patch and the ride becomes bouncy. A shift to the sport mode does improve things and once cruising on the highway, road joints or cement slabs are taken care of
easily. It comes with the Airmatic suspension and a feature to raise the ride height for serious offroading as well. The ML320 starts at Rs 54 lakh (ex-showroom) but it loses out on lot of standard equipments and doesn’t have a user interface on the console like the other two. It looks fresh, has rich interiors and drives pretty decently. There is nothing really that goes against the ML except maybe the suspension which is either too soft (in the comfort mode) or harsh (in the sport mode) for my liking. Will this downside prove to be a big hindrance when compared to the freshly updated king of the jungle, the meatier Audi Q7? At 5.1 meters in length and 1.98 meters in width, the Q7 is the epitome of presence on four wheels. It is THE vehicle to have for stealing the limelight at the most happening places in town where you have other luxury brands fighting for attention. Its mammoth size gives other so called big
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Shootout AUDI Q7 vs RIVALS
vehicles a complex when it comes to sheer road presence. Bow down to the revamped Q7. Its attraction grabbing style quotient is courtesy the addition of LED lights all around. With a big grille running all the way down into the bumper and relatively slim headlamps on either side of the beefy bonnet, it looks like a sleeping giant from up front. There are daytime running LEDs incorporated into the lamps and even the indicators get the same treatment. The wheel arches are pronounced, the rear looks huge with those big tail lamps and the twin exhausts mean business. Pictures really don’t do justice to the way the Q7 can make your everyday SUV look small. See a fast one approaching in your rear view mirror and your jaw drops. Audi has 46
managed to make the vehicle’s latest iteration look so much better even with minor styling updates. It retains the same brutish and small car eating looks though in a much softer and fresh way now. Insides are typical Audi but the quality of leather, wood and chrome used is of the highest order. The steering feels great to hold, you are utterly comfortable in the supportive seat and everything seems to fall in your hands perfectly. As my colleague Sarmad put it, the insides can easily fool you into believing that you are cocooned inside a luxury sedan and not a SUV. In fact, few automakers can make the interiors as sumptuous as Audi does. The Q7 sits on the longest wheelbase and this has liberated oodles of room on the
Clockwise from top left: The Beemer’s mill is noisy but performs well. Its interiors are functional though the design needs an update now. The Merc’s engine is silky smooth and mated to a seven-speed ‘box. The interiors feel airy due to the use of light coloured materials
inside. Even with a wide transmission tunnel, you never feel any lack of space. The MMI (Multi Media Interface) looks and works well and I especially like the ease with which the suspension settings can be changed while on the move. It’s actually involving and can compel you to do it over and over again. The Bang & Olufsen 14speaker system sounds too good to be true but comes at a price mind you. Good touches on the inside include a button actuated glovebox, multiple cup holders (including the cleverly designed bottle holder in the door), a parking assist camera and a keyless start/stop function to name a few. There is a lot less clutter on the inside and the interiors seem to have been put together in a much better, posh
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car Road Test #133
Overall height 1737mm
AUDI Q7 5.0 TDI 11111
Wheelbase 3002mm Overall length 5089mm Width(excluding mirrors) 1983mm Front track 1651mm Rear track 1681mm Kerb weight 2325 kg
SPECIFICATIONS ENGINE Cylinders Engine Layout Fuel supply Bore/stroke Cubic capacity Compression ratio Valvegear
Six, V configuration Longitudinal Diesel 83.0 x 91.4 2967cc 16.8:1 SOHC, 4 valves per cyl
ENGINE OUTPUT Max power (PS) Power peak (rpm) Red line (rpm) Max torque (Nm) Torque peak (rpm)
243 4000-4400 5000 550 2000-2250
TRANSMISSION Forward speeds, Six-speed Auto 1st gear 2nd gear
4.4148 2.37
3rd gear 4th gear 5th gear 6th gear
1.556 1.155 0.859 0.686
Reverse gear Final drive Drive wheels
3.394 3.9 AWD
WHEELS AND TYRES Wheel size Tyre size
SUSPENSION Front Double wishbone suspension with anti-roll bars Rear Double wishbone suspension with anti-roll bars ACCOMODATION Seating Head Room, F/R Leg Room F(max/min) KneeRoomF(max/min) KneeRoomR(max/min) Shoulder space Fuel tank Boot space
18” 255/55 R18
BRAKES Front Rear
6/7 1030/990mm NA 820/590mm 880/650mm 1475mm 100liters 775/2035 liters
DRIVER AIDS Front, rear, side and head airbags, ABS, ESP with brake assist, park assist, adjustable steering, ORVMs, day/night RVM
Ventilated disc Ventilated disc
STEERING Type Power assisted hydraulic rack and pinion Lock to lock NA turns
TEST RESULTS
u
NEED TO KNOW
BMW X5 xDrive30d Price
Rs 54.4lakh (exshowroom)
Engine
2993cc, 221PS, 480Nm
Transmission
Six-speed automatic, all-wheel drive
Performance
9.08 secs 0-100km/h, 201km/h top speed
Fuel efficiency
u
8.72kmpl (overall)
NEED TO KNOW
MERCEDES ML320 CDI Price
Rs 54 lakh (exshowroom)
Engine
2354cc, 161PS, 218Nm
Transmission
Seven-speed automatic, all-wheel drive
Performance
9.30 secs 0-100km/h, 210km/h top speed
Fuel efficiency
8.26kmpl (overall)
PERFORMANCE FACTORS Power/mass (PS/tonne) Power/litre (PS/litre) Torque/litre (Nm/litre)
MAXIMUM SPEED (km/h) True Speedo 19.5 20 39.7 40 57.3 60 77.0 80 96.8 100 114.5 120
9.15s
100
2.29 3.51
FUEL CONSUMPTION City 7.0 kmpl Highway 11.0 kmpl Overall* 8.5 kmpl * Overall is 25% highway and 75% city driving 24.86m/2.28s 37.76m/2.76s
6.45s
80
4.11s
60
ACCELERATION (km/h)
2.44s
40
1.00s
20 0
550m above MSL Cool, windless, wet
12.64s
120
OVERTAKING ACCELERATION (kick down, in seconds) Roll-ons 40-60 1.54 60-80 80-100 2.67 100-120
BRAKING TEST From 80km/h to 0 From 100km/h to 0
TEST CONDITIONS Altitude Weather
104.5 81.9 185.3
TIME, SECONDS 0
0-400metres sprint: Terminal speed:
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
22
16.57s 136.09km/h
1km sprint: Terminal speed:
30.11s 176.54km/h
11111 11111 11112 11111 11111
Suspension: Ride Quality: Handling: Steering: Braking:
11111 11111 11112 11111 11111
CAR RATING Design & Style: Powertrain: Performance: Fuel Efficiency: Dynamic Ability:
11111 11111 11111 1111 1111
Space: Creature Comforts: Driver Appeal: Safety: Interiors:
CAR INDIA’s test and performance data is the sole copyright of Next Gen Publishing Ltd. No part of the data or text can be used in any form for any purpose or promotion or advertisement without the explicit written permission of the editor. Performance testing by Aspi Bhathena
CAR India SEPTEMBER 2009
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SHOOTOUT AUDI Q7 vs RIVALS
THE Q7 SEEMS TO BLEND IN THE BEST OF BOTH THE WORLDS - A PERFECT MIX OF ITS RIVALS’ POSITIVE TRAITS I RECKON and inviting manner than the other two. Our test car came with individual bucket seats for the middle row with a huge fridge nestled in between. The seats are utterly comfortable and you can recline them as well as adjust them longitudinally. You can also opt for a DVD player with screens which should be the perfect way for back benchers to enjoy the drive. However, the panoramic sunroof gets a fabric cover which means the interiors can really get hot in the summers. Although all the three SUVs sport a 3.0-litre V6 engine, it’s the one with the four oval rings that has the punchiest mill here. 240PS of power is churned out between 4000 and 4400 revs but the talking point here is the humungous 550Nm of torque gushing out between 2000 and 2250rpm. Even though the Audi is a heavyweight, beating the others hands down when it comes to tipping the scales, all that power means it’s hard for the BMW and Merc to keep up once you hit the open roads. The Audi takes its time building up speeds – it’s neck to neck with the 48
X5 till the ton mark, but once past 150km/h, there is no way the X5 can keep up, losing the battle by more than half a second by the time both cars fly past the kilometer mark. Most importantly, it is the way the Audi behaves in city traffic. Oodles of torque to play around with and the fact that the gearbox changes gears seamlessly and without any abruptions means that even though it is the largest and heaviest of the lot, negotiating through traffic is quite manageable. The NVH levels inside the cabin are superb and the suspension sound while going over broken roads is greatly subdued. However, even with all the electronic gadgetry working overtime, you are well aware of the Q7’s porky weight and huge dimensions. It may not handle as well as the X5 over a set of twisties but outperforms the other two on city roads, undulations as well as during highway driving. The Audi easily tackles broken roads and simply glides over highway joints or cement slabs at high speeds thanks to higher profile 18-inch wheels. At speeds of over 160km/h, the suspension lowers itself by 35mm.
Both the X5 and the ML perform well and give a tough fight to the champ, the Q7. They are not bad vehicles per se but Audi has upped the ante considerably
Brilliant! The Q7 gets Audi’s allwheel drive Quattro system for those who like to indulge in mud splashing on weekends. The biggest and the most spacious SUV here also comes with the roomiest boot with an electric tail gate, a feature absent on the other two. At the touch of a button, you can lower the loading sill by 71mm! At the time of going into print, the latest Audi Q7’s official pricing wasn’t disclosed. However, we do expect the company to charge a slight premium for the new and improved vehicle. The previous Q7 has always been a fantastic package, outselling both the BMW X5 and the Mercedes ML in India easily. Things it seems can only get better for Audi with the new model and worse for others. It is flamboyant yet flashy and of the three, there isn’t a sinister way to announce your arrival than the Q7. The gargantuan SUV has been CAR India’s best premium SUV in India three times in a row and seems all set to repeat the act next year as well. And that, ladies and gentlemen, more than sums up my conclusion. car
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ADS Sept09.indd 67
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FIRST DRIVE NEW FORD ENDEAVOUR
W
e are wading, no, literally flying across knee deep river water through narrow openings with hills on either side. With four of us (and our luggage), the vehicle in question seems least bothered as we make progress through one of the most grueling off-road sections I have ever driven over. To make matters worse, the water is a mix of slush and volcanic ash which means that if the vehicle’s speed drops below 40km/h, we would sink in immediately. Big
stones, chunks of mud, tall bushes, et al – nothing seems to hinder the ease with which this SUV I am driving swiftly disposes of whatever comes its way. In some time, we take a break for yet another pit-stop. As I step out, the sultry weather hits me hard in the face and I am shocked to see the unforgiving terrain around me that we have been conquering for the last hour. Say hello to the refreshed Ford Endeavour. Indians have a liking for big things. We seem to have a soft corner
Though the interiors are largely unchanged, the quality of the plastics used has improved considerably
for tough and burly SUVs. The larger than life, first generation Endeavour was first launched here in 2005 followed by a spruced up, second generation model after a couple of years. This product has always been an impressive seller for Ford - the over bulbous proportions being a good way to massage its owners’ egos. In fact, at the price it retails for, there isn’t a better way to announce your arrival. The competition so far really didn’t pose a threat for this Yankee tank, but with Toyota rolling
YANKEE DOODLE
Does the refreshed Ford Endeavour up the ante in its segment? Bunny Punia has the answer after a two day drive experience in Philippines Photography Bunny Punia
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out the Fortuner, it was time we had the third generation Endeavour in India as well. There haven’t been any major design changes, although small but clever alterations go a long way in freshening up the rather dated and basic exterior. Livening up the front are swept back headlamps, fog lamps housed in sculpted, silver wing shaped bezels and a new grille. However, it’s the side on look that makes you appreciate the changes in the new model. New 17-
Photographs don’t do justice to the abilities of this Ford SUV. It is an off-roader to the core and with 4x4 low, it can literally go anywhere on this earth
inch alloy wheels residing in bold wheel arches look spot on for an inyour-face SUV like this, however, Ford told us that the Indian version will continue to come with the 16inch ones. A new small grille next to the front door with an Endeavour logo adds a touch of style. Even the roof rail gets a touch up job completing the transformation of this third generation SUV. The Endeavour has always had a commanding road presence. It towers over other vehicles on the
road and is a good way to make others give you space on the road. Being based on the Ford Ranger pick-up means that the Endeavour sits quite high off the ground with its bonnet hovering next to smaller cars’ windscreen! Overall, the vehicle’s dominating toughness remains, though in a welcoming and fresh appearance. It takes an effort to climb into the Endeavour’s cabin. Everything looks and feels familiar, however, spend some time inside the cabin
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FIRST DRIVE NEW NEWFORD FORDENDEAVOUR ENDEAVOUR
Left to Right: Scott Ferrier - Design Manager at Ford Australia, Hiroaki Hashimoto - Programs Director at Ford Hiroshima Operations and Nigel E. Wark - Executive Director of Marketing, Sales & Service at Ford India during a small press briefing in Manila
the Endeavour’s over bulbous proportions are a good way to massage its owners’ egos 52
and you notice the changes. To start with, the new vehicle gains more points on the practicality front. A handy pull out tray can be used to stow your laptop or similar stuff while the stowage in the door trims has also been enhanced. The second row features a one-touch flip-flop system and you get dedicated rear seat air-con vents. Fit and finish seems to have been improved as well and the three pod instrumentation console in front is classy. However, before you are all set to zoom off, you notice a slight change – the inclusion of an automatic ‘box stick. The Endeavour now gets a fivespeed auto transmission to further spoil its owners.
u
NEED TO KNOW
ford endeavour Price
Rs 18-21 lakh (approx)
Engine
2499/2953cc, 143/156PS, 330/380Nm
Transmission
Five-speed manual / automatic, rear-wheel / all-wheel drive
The country chosen for the exclusive first drive couldn’t have been better. However, before we hit the open roads, Manila’s congested traffic had to be dealt with. The new five-speed ‘box proved to be a boon and the way the big SUV handles in slow moving traffic really overshadows its huge appearance. The steering isn’t very direct, but it is light enough to take care of tight maneuvers. With smooth, open highways coming our way soon, it was time to stretch the legs of the 3.0-litre engine to the max. However, the slightly slow responding auto ‘box seemed to rob the vehicle of high speed overtaking maneuvers, taking its own sweet
CAR India september 2009
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time to inch closer to the 150km/h mark. That said, the Endeavour still remains a very good highway vehicle, effortlessly munching miles at an incredibly rapid pace. After the highway section, we started our ascent to the top of Baguio hill station. There is no running away from the fact that the Endeavour, being on the wrong side of two tonnes, does have a certain amount of body roll. With four on board and a full load of luggage, pointing the SUV into corners at high speeds not only had the tyres screeching for mercy, but even the rear was threatening to step out. However, the suspension setup also means that the ride quality doesn’t feel really
I don’t care how the Endeavour feels on the road for it is far more capable off the road than its owners will ever dare to venture
harsh, in spite of the bigger alloy wheels as compared to the second generation car. The highlight of the trip had to be the well chosen off-road section which had most of us going bonkers pushing the Endeavour to its limits. I had my reservations before entering the half volcanic ash infested river water which within seconds took its toll on another vehicle. But the trick of keeping the speedometer needle above 50km/h without any sudden acceleration or braking worked and before I knew it, we were literally floating over slush in the middle of a river! This was followed by high speed dry river bed driving, bush squashing and
braving the soft sand before we entered what seemed like the Grand Canyon with a river flowing through it. Surprisingly, the Endeavour made it through without a squeak. In my opinion, this has to be the most capable hard core off-roader out there in the market which can also cocoon its occupants in comfort and luxury. It can be your toy for weekend getaways into unexplored terrains, yet can be docile enough for your granny to drive to the nearest superstore. We expect a small price increase for the Endeavour when it goes on sale next month, nonetheless, there is reason enough for prospective SUV buyers to give this one a very serious thought. car CAR India september 2009
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ROAD TEST SKODA SUPERB V6
PERFORMANCE M L
I
T IS TOUGH FOR ANYONE to dislike the new Superb that was launched by Skoda in the Indian market a few months ago. The car has everything that you would expect from a vehicle in this segment. The new aggressive exterior styling makes sure that you get a second look. The interiors render a classy feel and the car has loads of electronics on offer. Safety features and driver/passenger comfort are at the pinnacle. There was absolutely nothing missing in the Superb, until Skoda themselves decided to make us believe that there was indeed something that they had missed out on for the hardcore enthusiast – extreme performance. Undoubtedly, we loved the performance of the 2.0-litre TDI variant from the Czech stable but it wasn’t enough to pump in the adrenaline. So what is the deal with this new Superb? Skoda offers a huge 3.6-litre V6 petrol engine under the hood and mates it with their brilliant six-speed DSG ‘box. To add to that, the Czech automaker provides an all-wheel drive
54
system to ensure that there is hardly anything else that a performance seeker would crave for from a car in this segment. The 3.6-litre FSI engine produces a peak power of 260PS and a max torque of 350Nm. The company claims that with the variable valve timing incorporated in this FSI engine, the inlet valve timing is continuously altered to match the instantaneous driving style which helps in delivering top notch performance and better fuel efficiency at the same time. Theoretically, all this sounds great, but I did not want to come to any conclusion just by reading the brochures. So I got into the Superb and decided to head to the kind of roads that most owners will subject this car to. We have already tested the other engine options available in the Skoda Superb and were quite impressed with the car. This had created some presumptions in my mind and I knew, being an auto fanatic, that I would love this car more than the previous Superbs. However, as I drove out of the city, I realized that my presumptions were
Above: The new 3.6-litre V6 mill under the hood of the Superb is capable of getting that ear to ear grin on your face Right: The instrumentation console and steering wheel lend an overall classy look to the interiors
CAR India SEPTEMBER 2009
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E MEETS LUXURY…
…says Adhish Alawani as he experiences the shattering V6 performance of the luxurious new Superb
Photography Sanjay Raikar
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ROAD TEST SKODA SUPERB V6 car Road Test #134
Overall height 1482mm
SKODA SUPERB 3.6 V6 11112 (Rs. 28.77 lakh OTR, Pune)
Wheelbase 2761mm Overall length 4838mm Width(excluding mirrors) 1817mm Front track 145mm Rear track 1518mm Kerb weight 1471 kg
SPECIFICATIONS ENGINE Cylinders Engine Layout Fuel supply Bore/stroke Cubic capacity Compression ratio Valvegear
Six cylinder Transverse Petrol 89 x 96.4mm 3597cc 12:1 DOHC, 4 valves per cyl
ENGINE OUTPUT Max power (PS) Power peak (rpm) Red line (rpm) Max torque (Nm) Torque peak (rpm)
260 6000 7000 350 3500
TRANSMISSION Forward speeds 1st gear 2nd gear
6-speed DSG 3.46 2.05
3rd gear 4th gear 5th gear 6th gear
STEERING Type Turning Radius
1.30 0.90 0.81 0.76
SUSPENSION Front: Independent, MacPherson strut, anti-roll bars Rear: Independent, multi-link, anti-roll bars
Reverse gear 3.99 Final drive NA Drive wheels 4WD Driver aids ABS, Parktronic, electric ORVMs, day/night RVM, electrically adjustable seat, automatic headlights, traction control WHEELS AND TYRES Wheel size Tyre size
17” 225/45 R17
BRAKES Front Rear
Solid discs Solid discs
Power assisted rack and pinion 10.8m
ACCOMODATION Seating 5 Head Room, F/R 990/920mm LegRoom F(max/min) 1174/-KneeRoomF(max/min) 880/650mm KneeRoomR(max/min) 980/740mm Shoulder space R 1400mm Fuel tank 60L Boot space 565 Lock to lock NA
1 2
TEST RESULTS SPEEDO ERROR (km/h) Speedo True 20 18.3 40 38.3 60 57.8 80 76.2 100 95.8 120 115.2 OVERTAKING ACCELERATION (kick down, in seconds) Roll-ons 40-60 1.78 60-80 2.03 80-100 2.74 100-1203.16 FUEL CONSUMPTION City 7.5 kmpl Highway 12 kmpl Overall* 8.5 kmpl * Overall is 25% highway and 75% city driving BRAKING TEST From 80km/h to 0 28.61m/2.51s From 100km/h to 0 38.94m/2.88s
PERFORMANCE FACTORS Power/mass (PS/tonne) Power/litre (PS/litre) Torque/litre (Nm/litre)
TEST CONDITIONS Altitude Weather
152.92 72.22 97.22
11.65s
120
8.57s
100
5.92s
80
3.97s
60
ACCELERATION (km/h)
2.30s
40
1.15
20 0
550m above MSL Cool, windless, dry
TIME, SECONDS 0
0-400metres sprint: Terminal speed:
2
4
6
8
16.16s 140.88km/h
10
12
14
16
1km sprint: Terminal speed:
18
20
22
29.32s 185.27km/h
CAR RATING Design & Style: Powertrain: Performance: Fuel Efficiency: Dynamic Ability:
1111 11112 11111 1112 11112
Space: 11111 Creature Comforts: 11111 Driver Appeal: 11111 Safety: 11111 Interiors: 11111
Suspension: Ride Quality: Handling: Steering: Braking:
11112 1111 11112 11112 11111
CAR INDIA’s test and performance data is the sole copyright of Next Gen Publishing Ltd. No part of the data or text can be used in any form for any purpose or promotion or advertisement without the explicit written permission of the editor. Performance testing by Aspi Bhathena
56
just partially correct. The Superb offers an amazing throttle response making you fall in love with the car every time you nudge the accelerator pedal and rocket ahead of everyone else on the street. The V6 snarls to make sure that people around you in traffic do not fail to identify that there is something big cooking under the bonnet of the Superb. The immense amount of power from the V6 mill starts building up right from a thousand revs making the car quite drivable and fun in the city. However, to maintain higher fuel efficiency, the DSG quickly shifts a gear up at any given opportunity and eventually increases the number of gear shifts in a slow moving traffic
CAR India SEPTEMBER 2009
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3
4 1. The twin style opening boot lid offers convenience and comfort at the same time 2. The gear selector is the only evidence that suggests the car features a 4x4 drive
scenario which can be irritating at times. Apart from that, there is nothing to complain about the Superb in the city. Take the car to the highway and it comes alive in the truest sense. Floor the pedal and you easily feel the huge amount of torque acting up, pushing you slightly back into the seat as the car surges ahead greedily. Get into the S mode and it manages to do a 0-100km/h run in just over eight and a half seconds. The point to be noted here is that the Superb is an extremely heavy car with the twin style opening boot lid and the 4x4 hardware adding up to a lot of kilos, yet it manages such quick accelerations. The 4x4 system did
3. The Superb offers class leading interior space and lavish comforts 4. The four exhaust pipes at the tail tell the story of the V6 with a grunt
not inspire any significant experience in the dry highway drive. However, while driving the Superb around some wet slippery corners, there was noteworthy feedback from the four-wheel drive system giving as much traction as possible. While I tried my best to get the tail out with the help of some loose gravel on the road in a corner, the ESP and 4x4 made sure that my efforts did not supersede their abilities and kept the car very much in control. Not to forget, the Superb has a very well sorted chassis with an amazing suspension doing its job quite precisely over most road conditions. Although Skoda has installed low profile, 225mm section, 17-inch tyres, the ride quality of the Superb has not been compromised. The engine, transmission, chassis and suspension – everything is just perfect and will make every auto buff fall in love with the car. The equipment level on the Superb is high with loads of features on offer including a touch screen multimedia centre console, steering mounted controls, automatic vipers, parktronic, a multi-function display
giving you vital stats - the list just goes on. With as many as eight airbags, adaptive front headlamps, ABS with EBD, anti-slip regulation, traction control system, electronic differential lock and electronic stability programme - the Superb has no match in its class when it comes to safety features. Does it miss out on anything at all? I reckon not. But then there is one downside of this extremely powerful V6 petrol – it guzzles fuel at a rapid pace, bringing the overall figure to 8.2kmpl (7.5kmpl in the city and 12kmpl on the highway). However, I believe that the people opting for the petrol V6 car are going to be least concerned about this factor. The Superb comes at a price tag of Rs 28.77 lakh (OTR, Pune) which is slightly more than the competition. However, it matches the performance of its rivals and provides a lot more on the equipment and safety front making it a better value for money option. Overall, the Skoda Superb V6 is an enthusiast’s car that knows exactly what it is supposed to do and does it in pretty good style. car
CAR India september 2009
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8/25/09 3:44:49 PM
THE RING Shootout GT-R vs 911 vs THE RING
vs
Nissan brings its latestGT-R, Porsche its new GT3. We bring the stopwatches. Game on
26 PAGE SPECIAL #/6%2ô34/29ôô'4 2ô63ô ô63ô4(%ô2).'
#/6%2ô34/29ôô'4 2ô63ô ô63ô4(%ô2).'
PART ONE: PORSCHE DIEHARDS SAY NISSAN CHEATED AT THE NURBURGRING. NISSAN SAYS ITS 2010 GT-R GOES EVEN FASTER. TODAY, THIS MAN ENDS THE LAPTIME ROW
#/6%2ô34/29ôô'4 2ô63ô ô63ô4(%ô2).'
PART TWO: NEW GT3. BE AFRAID NISSAN. VERY AFRAID $ISTILLEDôESSENCEôOFôPURESTô ôINôITSôNEWESTôFORM ôFRESHô ATôTHEô 2ING ô-EETôTHEô'4 2 SôREALôBENCHMARK 3TORYô'EORGô+ACHERô0HOTOGRAPHYô-ARKô&AGELSON
PART THREE: SO, WHICH IS REALLY FASTEST?
3TORYô"ENô"ARRYô0HOTOGRAPHYô-ARKô&AGELSON
3HOWDOWNôTIMEôASô'4 2ôANDô'4 ôFACEôANôINDEPENDENTôDRIVERômôANDôAôCLOCK
/
3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#
NISSAN’S HOT LAP I p60 Factory boys out to prove GT-R really is that quick. We join in
GT3 ROARS IN I p64 We drive Porsche’s brand new über911… at the ’Ring
!
3TORYô"ENô"ARRYô0HOTOGRAPHYô-ARKô&AGELSON
3%# 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 0/23#(%ô ô'4 3%#ô 3%#ô .)33!.ô'4 2 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#ô 3%#
'º,$%. 3ô "!#+ ô')$$9ô 7)4(ô0/34 !$2%.!,).%ô %.4(53)!3- 7%ô0/).4ô()-ô 342!)'(4ô "!#+ô/54ô).ô 4(%ô'4 2
WHO WINS? I p70 Our man puts in hot laps in 2010spec GT-R and 911 GT3. So close…
#/6%2ô34/29ôô'4 2ô63ô ô63ô4(%ô2).'
,
12
REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD GO
1
3TORYô#HRISô#HILTONô0HOTOGRAPHYô6ARIOUS
2
PART FOUR: ENTER SPEC V – THE ULTIMATE GT-R *USTôWHENô0ORSCHEôTHOUGHTôITôWASôSAFEôTOôCROW ô.ISSANôPLAYSôITSô ACE ô/NôTHEô. RBURGRING Sô'0ôCIRCUIT ôAôWINNERôEMERGESwôô 3TORYô"ENô"ERRYô0HOTOGRAPHYô-ARKô&AGELSON
SPEC V vs GT3 I p72 Nissan comes again with the hardcore GT-R. GT3 beater?
BE HERE NOW I p78 12 reasons why you MUST go. PLUS: Win a weekend at the ’Ring
CAR India september 2009
THE RING COVER.indd 59
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Shootout GT-R vs 911 vs THE RING
5:00sec 5:05sec 5:10sec 5:15sec 5:20sec 5:25sec 5:30sec 5:35sec 5:40sec 60
CAR India september 2009
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PART ONE: PORSCHE DIEHARDS SAY NISSAN CHEATED AT THE NURBURGRING. NISSAN SAYS ITS 2010 GT-R GOES EVEN FASTER. TODAY, THIS MAN ENDS THE laptime row Story Ben Barry Photography Mark Fagelson
Toshio Suzuki looks kinda focused (left). This is why
The only analogue instrument here is the driver
5:40sec 5:45sec 5:50sec 5:55sec 6:00sec 6:05sec 6:10sec 6:15sec 6:20sec CAR India september 2009
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Shootout GT-R vs 911 vs THE RING
See the load on the back wheel? That’s how hard he’s trying
T
he barrier to my left protects pit crews from an overexuberant run up the pitlane, the one to my right frames the apex of the Nordschleife’s last corner before the pit straight. In between lies enough space for me. It’s a front-row seat from which I’ll watch Nissan driver Toshio Suzuki not only prove – stuff the doubters – that a Nissan GT-R really can lap the Nordschleife in 7min 29sec, but also that the 2010 GT-R goes even faster. It’s a momentous occasion and I’ve got the, er, best seat. The weather’s good, if a little hot for ideal combustion; the track is dry, if a tad dusty for perfect traction. What’s the target? ‘Perfect conditions? Maybe 7min 24sec,’ is the answer I tease out of GT-R chief vehicle engineer Kazutoshi Mizuno. ‘Today? Who knows. Faster than before!’ At first I feel safe. Then there’s a shout from the pitlane and a bluster of activity. ‘Here he comes!’ The silver Nissan flashes in and out of sight in the near distance, yet the coarse roar of twin-turbo boost lags behind the visuals. It’s like the silent, violent contortions of a rollercoaster in the split second before the screams of those aboard rush down to your eardrums. The GT-R is totally loaded up as it exits the fast left-hander ahead of my vantage point, its right-hand side cranked over to the maximum. It’s ready to unload, ready to fire straight back into my thin strip of protective metal. Suddenly I feel underdressed, naked but for my Armco underpants. From full throttle there’s a quick lift off the gas, and the GT-R swings round and assumes a 30-
degree slide pre-apex. The car was already tight to the corner, now it’s pointing right at me, flat out, sideways. And I’m scared. Instinctively I leap clean over the inner Armco. As I land, startled and wearing an expectant grimace in the empty pitlane, Suzuki winds on just enough lock to clear the metal barrier, slams his foot resolutely into carpet, and slides from apex to outer kerbing at full throttle, breaking the timing beam a fraction later. Job done, he pulls immediately into the pits where a team of mechanics attend to the car, directing large electric fans at the insect-splattered nose. ‘Ping! Tick! Pop!’ The hard-worked brakes and drivetrain fizz in the early evening air. I feel embarrassed to have been so obviously freaked out, but thankfully it seems nobody else noticed my clumsy bounding. They were too busy looking at the digital numerals frozen to a stop as Suzuki crossed the line. ‘What’s the time? The time!’ Over the last few years the Nürburgring Nordschleife lap time has become as important to performance car marketing as 0-100km/h sprints, outrageous bhp and heroic km/h. Those 19.3 km of snaking curves cut into Germany’s Eifel mountains are acknowledged as the best possible test of real-world performance. The weather is unpredictable, the surface far from smooth; there are vast changes in elevation; patchy asphalt causes grip to vary even several times in one bend. To beat your competitor here suggests a tangible consumer benefit that a tenth off the 0-100km/h does not. So when, in 2007, Nissan claimed 7min
38sec in Porsche’s back yard – a 911 Turbomatching time in a car half the price and more practical, don’t forget – the automotive world crowded to chant ‘fight, fight, fight!’ In April 2008, Nissan raised the bar again when Suzuki put in that mind-blowing 7min 29sec. Intrigued, Stuttgart bought its own GT-R, and got no closer than 12-15 seconds to Nissan’s time. Porsche people have never publicly said they think Nissan cheated. But CAR’s recent meeting with R&D chief Wolfgang Durheimer revealed that they are perplexed. ‘We respect the GT-R, in terms of value for money it’s quite an attractive package, and we respect the engineers that developed and built that car,’ he told us. Tellingly, however, he went on to add that ‘all our most talented drivers from our chassis department [drove the GT-R] but we could not find those lap times. Maybe [Nissan’s] car had race-spec tyres, different gear ratios, maybe different engine performance from our US version.’ Nissan wants to silence the naysayers. That’s why CAR has been invited to watch the 2010 car go even faster. Changes are minimal. The headline difference is a 5bhp boost to 478bhp, though Dunlop SP Sports are now standard. For the first UK customers it’s a kind of recompense for being at the back of the queue while Japanese and American markets were satiated. You’ll pay Rs 45.5 lakh and some deliveries have already been made. Order now, however, and you won’t get yours until mid-2010 at the earliest. It might be worth the wait – those first cars don’t have sat-nav.
SEC 6:30SEC 6:35SEC 6:40SEC 6:45SEC 6:50SEC 6:55SEC 7:00SEC 7:05SEC 7 62
CAR India september 2009
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See the dark grey GT-R? That’s the Spec V from the Geneva show, and we’re following it to the track
THEY WERE BUSY LOOKING AT THE NUMERALS AS SUZUKI CROSSED THE LINE. ‘WHAT’S THE tIME? THE TIME!’ Not that Nissan’s crack team of testers needs directions around here. Their temporary HQ lies on a small industrial estate near the circuit. The premises is rented, yet seems particularly well suited to its Japanese occupants. There’s minimalist furniture, and open-plan living areas (yes, including bedrooms) with white space, wood finishes and abundant technology. There’s a balcony for drivers to smoke and focus before hot laps. And there’s an immaculately kept garage full of GT-Rs. You really could live here, a Gran Turismo paradise made real mere minutes from the ’Ring. In the hours before the record attempt, a crew of mechanics dressed in matching light blue and yellow overalls swarm over the GT-Rs hoisted high on ramps, wheels removed, sometimes brakes and suspension components too. Splitters are screwed tight for maximum aero efficiency, panel gaps studiously caressed. At one end of the workshop lies a stack of Bridgestone and Dunlop tyres wrapped around bruised and battered GT-R wheels – the fruit of 2000 combinations tried during testing – and, at the other, a whiteboard timetable scrawled in Japanese that’s endlessly scrutinised yet, according to my English equivalent, almost entirely ignored. Eventually Mizuno – aka Mr GT-R – summons us upstairs for a presentation. The gist appears to be a kind of open letter to
Porsche. To paraphrase, it goes like this: ‘We have definitely not fooled around with this car, it’s absolutely definitely standard and not tweaked at all. Okay, so we’ve fitted Spec V wheels and tyres, but they’re optional anyway and, yes, we’ve adjusted the suspension geometry, but it’s to the trackday spec we’ve outlined in the owner’s manual and we’ll do the same for any customer who asks. Other than that it’s totally, utterly stock. Got that?’ A first sortie to the track is abandoned when, ironically, a Porsche racer barrel rolls. But eventually it’s on, and I drive in convoy with three other GT-Rs on our way to make history. I’m even let into the pits by accident, only to be spotted moments before being sent out on a bewildering 12minuter. The track’s booked exclusively for Nissan’s use and four cars will run at staggered intervals, helping to minimise the very real threat of overconfident wildlife straying onto a deserted circuit. All Nissan’s drivers are quick, but the pressure lies with the metronomically consistent Toshio Suzuki. He’s previously won the Japanese F3 title and Daytona’s 24 hours, plus competed in Japanese touring cars, Le Mans and, briefly, F1. Now in his fifties, he exudes the nothing-to-prove calm
WAR OF THE ’RING
WELL, THIS SHOULD END THE DEBATE…
of a man entirely assured of his own abilities. He sits in the pits with the GT-R’s engine running, its suspension, transmission and traction control flicked to the hardcore R setting. He keeps his gestures to an absolute minimum, his gaze calmly focused on Mizuno, himself staring intently at the stopwatch. Then it’s go, go, go! And just one warm-up lap later, Suzuki’s on a flier. He brakes hard into the first corner, sweeping fast downhill, left, and out of sight. For the next few seconds we hear the screech of tyres steadily fading into the distance. Then nothing for well over seven minutes. As I stand waiting it dawns on me that a very quick lap at the Nordschleife is still a very long time to be driving with absolutely maximum commitment and zero margin for error. Finally there’s that distinctive roar of boost, and the GT-R flashes in and out of sight before finally charging at me so hard that I bound clumsily out of my Armco underpants. The time? 7.27.56. Mission accomplished – it’s enough to comprehensively demolish the 911 Turbo. Thing is, there’s a new, harder 911 eager to do battle. Can it slay Godzilla? Turn the page to find out. car
7:27SEC 7:38SEC NISSAN GT-R
PORSCHE 911 TURBO
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PART TWO: NEW GT3. BE AFRAID NISSAN. VERY AFRAID Distilled essence of purest 911 in its newest form, fresh at the ’Ring. Meet the GT-R’s real benchmark Story Georg Kacher Photography Mark Fagelson
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kay, so more people actually buy Cayenne SUVs than 911s. But ask any car fan to sketch a Porsche and it’ll come out 911-shaped. Then ask a Porsche fan – a real one, not the Cayenne owner – which 911 best sums up the breed. ‘The GT3,’ they’ll tell you. The 911, fractionally stripped, deftly honed, subtly boosted. Lightweight, rear-drive, no turbos. Hardcore? Yes, but not too hardcore. In short, refined enough – just – for regular road use, yet purposefully focused for track use. Now there’s a new one. And here it is, unloading at the Nürburgring Nordschleife. Ultimate 911, ultimate track. And we’re hot with anticipation following Nissan’s blistering lap-time here in the latest GT-R. There’s a sense of awe as the electric blue GT3 is lowered from the truck. The restyled front end with three black mesh air intakes looks cleaner than the LED-adorned Turbo’s, the rear wing (even wider than before) double-acts as aerofoil and breathing assistant, and the splined centre-lock wheelhubs relay an unmistakable
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Shootout GT-R vs 911 vs THE RING trackday touch. The suspension is lower by 30mm over the 911 Carrera, the fat 235/35 (front) and 305/30ZR19 (rear) Michelins boost the broad shoulders by 70mm and, thanks to Porsche-friendly German typeapproval officials, that towering rear wing is now almost as monstrous as the Cup racer’s. Like a peacock in parade mode, this Porsche uses its self-confident proportions and gofaster add-ons to radiate a stance that’s a match for any Lambo. Inside, you can choose between leathercum-carbon opulence or race-style bareness, with no rear seats and a prominent just-incase master switch. The supposedly no-cost Clubsport pack includes a rear roll cage, a six-point harness for the driver and a fire extinguisher, but you can only order it with special lightweight seats, which shave 24kg off the total tally. Alternatively, the even more uncompromising race buckets provide about as much room to move as a screw clamp. The ‘comfort’ seats are sufficiently supportive for most and live up to their name. You’ve no choice other than to shift gears yourself with the manual six-speeder. Purists reportedly like the stiff lever action and the ultra-heavy clutch, but this arrangement is actually hard work, the shift pattern is not particularly well defined, and the lever movements can be coarse and notchy. Why doesn’t Porsche offer the PDK dual-clutch cogworks or the Cup racer’s sequential gearbox? Cue shoulder-shrugging. Perhaps it’s because such trickery is reserved for the next GT2, perhaps because the company wants to hold back these and other innovations for the all-new 911 out in 2011. Or perhaps it’s merely because PDK can’t cope with the GT3’s 8500rpm red line. Although the previous model was hardly a sluggard, they’ve dished up an extra 20bhp for the new one. How? Well, for a start the flat six’s displacement increases from 3.6 to 3.8 litres, there are titanium con-rods, forged pistons with thermodynamically more efficient crowns, a modified valvetrain and a switchable intake plenum with two resonance blades. The third-generation Variocam system adjusts both the intake and the exhaust camshafts, a move that helps to increase the maximum twist action from 405Nm at 5500rpm to 429Nm at 6250pm. The torque curve looks positively topographical though, with troughs at 2800, 4100 and 5500rpm. The peak power output of 429bhp is available at an unchanged 7600rpm. Other characteristic features include the trademark dry-sump lubrication and a low back-pressure exhaust with two catalysts and a pair of free-flow manifolds. When you give it stick, the new GT3 will accelerate from rest to 100km/h in 4.1sec 66
(down from 4.3sec) and on to 314km/h (previously 312). At the same time, average consumption has improved marginally from 7.8 to 8kmpl, and CO2 emissions have dropped from 307 to 298g/km. True, there’s a sense of déja-vu when you get in the GT3, even if this latest plaything has a bigger wing, a more vocal exhaust and new gimmicks like the pointless upshift indicator. It takes a racetrack to properly evaluate most of the GT3’s incremental improvements and, even then, you’d expect a 2003 GT3 owner to be hard-pressed finding many differences. Yet there are surprises. The new car scores in areas where even insiders would least expect progress. After 14 hours on road and track, newfound strengths confirm that there is still life left in that long-evolved DNA. Perhaps the biggest step ahead is the much improved aerodynamic stability. Merit number two concerns the notably more capable chassis, which provides extra grip, more front axle compliance and a more sensitive ESP/ASR/ABS management. The third key asset is the unchanged weight: in combination with the brawnier engine, it immediately yields an even more intimate and intuitive driving experience at the limit. And this car is light for its type. Tipping the scales at 1395kg, the GT3 weighs 210kg less than a BMW M3, undercuts the Nissan GT-R by 345kg, and eclipses the Mercedes SL63 AMG by 490kg. With the exception of the much more expensive 1350kg Ferrari F430 Scuderia, there is nothing comparable out there that weighs less. The good bits remain the same though. Fire up the flat six and hear it idle like a box of grasshoppers, rev like a chainsaw and dominate your environment like a seismic aftershock. Clutch and gearbox are for real men, the power steering is manageable yet transparent, throttle response immediate. Full-throttle take-off turns every head, and right hoof and left paw take time to synchronise effort and rhythm. Then, suddenly, halfway round the ’Ring the controls become second nature, while the brakes – light, grabby, emphatically underchallenged at first – warm up with the special Michelins. Earlier 911s gave you the creeps as they entered an aerodynamic realm of their own at high speed, but the new GT3 never plays foul, even in ill winds. At an indicated 322km/h it’s planted so firmly that the windtunnel gurus must have performed a minor miracle. There’s more than twice as much front and rear downforce above 201km/h as before, achieved by reducing the frontal area, channelling less air along the bottom of the car, and incorporating new rear
The only place you can’t see the wing from. And that flat six sounds so much better than it looks
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No, not a quiet country lane. This is the Nordschleife. Proper GT3 territory that’s a lot less harmless than it looks
Suede wheelrim and lower dash. Just in case you think they didn’t mean it
HEAR THAT FLAT SIX REV LIKE A CHAINSAW AND DOMINATE YOUR ENVIRONMENT LIKE AN AFTERSHOCK
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Shootout GT-R vs 911 vs THE RING SECOND OPINION
YOU CAN’T FIT A GUITAR AMP IN THE GT3, YOU KNOW
As an everyday proposition, the Nissan takes some beating. I lived with one for a week while we put this feature together and loved every second. I hooked my baby daughter’s child seat to the rear Isofix mounting points, and loaded my guitar amp in the boot. Then I drove it hard in the wet and dry, in comfort, as we powered across England, France, Belgium and Germany on our way to the Nürburgring. I won’t pretend that I could feel the 2010 car’s extra 5bhp, but I could feel the improvements in ride quality that this European model boasted over the Japanese cars I’ve previously driven – although this remains a resolutely stiff car, even in comfort mode. At very low speeds, on steep hills and when cold, the dualclutch gearbox can be embarrassingly clunky, but for the most part it acts as both a fantastically smooth auto, and a brilliantly direct manual – in fact, the physical relationship between gearbox and engine reminds me more of a clutchless manual than a dual-clutch ’box.
The GT-R really comes into its own on the road. It’s such a buzz to work within the GT-R’s limits and fire it along challengingly twisty back roads at warp speed – much more satisfying than exploring the limits on track (see page 72 for why). Yet ultimately I enjoyed driving the Porsche more. The engine is more tuneful, the power delivery more satisfying. The handling is also purer and the GT3 feels much nimbler because it’s lighter, yes, but also because the front wheels aren’t caught up in the battle to deploy power. Balance that, though, against the 911’s real-world shortfalls. There are no rear seats to stow offspring, the nose won’t swallow that much, the tyres actually don’t work when it rains, and as for snow, well, only the GT-R has a snow setting. Factor this, too: the GT3 costs around Rs 20lakh more than the Nissan – enough change to buy a Lotus Elise for that light, rear-drive, impractical hit when you’re not in the mood for four-wheel drive, 500bhp madness you really can use every day. BEN BARRY
THE NEW GT3 IS QUANTIFIABLY FASTER WHEN PUSHED THAN THE MODEL IT REPLACES YET SUBJECTIVELY MORE COMFORTABLE WHEN ON A LONG LEASH
It’s not often you’re asked to choose between Nissan and Porsche. Even rarer for that to be a difficult decision. Ben Barry (left) enjoyed the GT-R’s practicality but, like Georg Kacher (right), was swayed by the 911’s greater purity
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ground-effect ducts that also cool the brakes. The mighty wing helps, but it’s more about lateral stability than downforce. You can deactivate stability control and then traction control, but your name better be Walter Röhrl to do so on a public road. He’s the first to admit that even seasoned pros will put in faster lap times with the electronic watchdogs on alert. The prime reason for this unusual talent lies in the rewritten software, which co-ordinates the responses of car and driver according to a clever probability pattern based on real parameters of speed, grip and acceleration. The PSM (Porsche Stability Management) silences squealing tyres with new standards of subtlety but the results are at once miraculous yet somehow mystifying. It makes you feel good because it inspires confidence, but it also makes you wonder how much smoothness and speed are due to the ability of the driver, and how much to the cleverness of the car. One particularly welcome trait is the suspension’s newfound compliance. In 2005, Ferrari’s F430 Challenge set a fine example for the Scuderia, then the Audi R8 V10 and Lamborghini LP560-4 followed. Along with the Scuderia, the new GT3 is the best-trained horse in the stable, now far less harsh than before. Instead of furthering the harder/ lower/more-radical cause, the chassis designers concentrated on aerodynamics, kinematics and weight-saving. They replaced the conventional spiral springs with spherical ones that substantially reduce unsprung weight. Lighter wheels, brakes and tyres reduce the calorie count by 20kg.
More compliance doesn’t simply mean longer wheel travel and softer springs. More important is the interplay between suspension hardware, software and drivetrain elements such as the mechanical diff lock. The diff lock is not just about traction, it also counteracts lift-off oversteer. Similarly, the suspension management enhances ride comfort whenever you’re not actively trying to better your lap time. In sport mode, it rigidly keeps body roll to a minimum, but encounter transverse ridges, ruts or potholes and the system instantly opens up because it knows that compliance is the key to control. It retains this compliance even when stability and traction control are off, which proves that chassis and drivetrain really have learnt to pool their talents. There is no doubt about it: the new GT3 is quantifiably faster when pushed than the model it replaces and yet subjectively more comfortable when on a long leash. And after about 64 different major model variations since 1965, the 2009 911 GT3 still incorporates all the original genes of the breed. Including one of the most communicative steering racks in the world, eerily tail-heavy weight distribution, a positively old-fashioned pedal box, an almost vertical dashboard (with more instruments than the most attentive eyes can monitor), and a field of vision framed by the sexiest front wings in the trade. What have matured dramatically over the years are the power and torque delivery, the handling balance, the level of roadholding, the brake performance and the intuitive steering.
Even compared with the last GT3, the new version feels smoother, more fluent and incredibly composed. Gone is the tugging at the helm whenever one of the front wheels goes chasing an undulation. Much less obvious is the brief destabilising twitch along the car’s spine during energetic downshifts. Not there any more is the eyebrow-raising squat-and-release motion that used to accompany high-rev upshifts. And the behaviour at the limit of adhesion, which used to be impatient at best and ragged at worst, is now consistent and seamless. There are good reasons for these dynamic improvements. New tyres and recalibrated dampers make their presence felt through the thick rim of the steering wheel. The bettercooled and less temperature-sensitive compound rotors make the notably lighter brakes feel more responsive as well as more potent. The engine is secured via optional dynamic mounts, fitted to the test car, which stiffen up under pressure and relax under trailing throttle. Although the tyre size hasn’t changed, the rubber compound is stickier, and the tread pattern closer to a slick than an intermediate. Meanwhile, differences in track width, weight distribution and unsprung masses are marginal but, together with the modifications to chassis, driveline and aero performance, they make the new GT3 a more mature and more accessible car. More deftly honed and subtly boosted, in fact, than ever before. Even more hardcore when necessary, yet not too hardcore the rest of the time. Nissan, the fight’s back with you. car
PORSCHE 911 GT3 Drivetrain
Engine 3797cc 24v flat six Power 429bhp @ 7600rpm Torque 429Nm @ 6250rpm Power to weight 308bhp per tonne Transmission Six-speed manual, rear-wheel drive
Performance
0-100km/h 4.1sec Top speed 312km/h KMPL 8 kmpl (combined) CO2 298g/km
Details
Front suspension MacPherson strut Rear suspension Multi-link Length/width/height 4460/1808/1280mm
Boot space 105 litres front/205 litres rear Fuel tank 67 litres Weight 1395kg NCAP safety rating Not tested
Costs (UK)
Carbon Seats Rs 2.45 lakh Ceramic Brakes Rs 4.55 lakh Comfort Seats Rs 1.55 lakh Nose-Lift System Rs 1.55 lakh Roll Cage No-Cost Option Silverstone Drive Experience Standard Vehicle Tracking System Standard Price Rs 65.6 lakh Verdict 11111 The best 911 just got a bit better
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Shootout GT-R vs 911 vs THE RING
It’s going to get pretty intense in there
The Nissan doesn’t quite drive itself, but it knows how quickly it went
One in, one out…
PART THREE: SO, WHICH IS REALLY FASTEST?
Showdown time as GT-R and GT3 face an independent driver – and a clock
A
confession: the only way I could get this feature off the ground was to fabricate like Richard Nixon. First I deceive CAR’s European editor. ‘No Georg, tell Porsche we won’t time the GT3.’ Then a Nissan PR boss. ‘No, no, we definitely won’t be doing any timing on the Nordschleife.’ Of course, we didn’t actually say we wouldn’t ask a quick driver to test both cars. And the GT-R has a built-in stopwatch. So… enter Andy Gülden, resident ’Ring god. Can he help perpetuate my lie? ‘No problem,’ he says. I get a terrifying exploratory lap with him driving a VW Passat in thick fog. I’m sure Gülden’s barely trying, but it feels scary fast to me and it’s clear he’s driving from memory, not sight. He points at the small section of roadworks that will compromise today’s lap time, and comments on the slightly damp patches. ‘Not perfect conditions, but not far off.’ Then he gestures at the fog – ‘I live over there’ – and nibbles a fingernail that’s annoying him. It’s a level of skill that’s 70
Story Ben Barry Photography Mark Fagelson more depressing than inspiring. We agree on a secret code: backing off over the finish line means a second practice lap, foot pinned means a timed run. Why he hands me a walkie talkie I don’t know, but I take it to maintain the spirit of agreement. As the Porsche bellows after one practice lap, Gülden is obviously flat out. I’m standing next to the Porsche PR man, subtly winking at the CAR team to time the next lap, when my walkie talkie crackles to life at full volume. ‘START MEASURING!’ it echoes across the Eifel mountains. I’m too flabbergasted to talk my way out of it, so I just run away. Seven minutes and 49 seconds later, Gülden’s back, his face bright red, his feedback delivered with giddy, postadrenaline hit enthusiasm. We point him straight back out in the GT-R. It screams into the distance, maximum attack, before stopping the clocks seven minutes and 51 seconds later. The Porsche was over a second faster. ‘The GT-R’s boost is amazing and the
four-wheel drive really helps too. But it encourages an aggressive driving style and the front tyres heat up quickly. I’d say 99 percent of my lines were perfect, but I got it wrong once – I was unfamiliar with the car, and I’m not so used to right-hand drive.’ And the Porsche? ‘Definitely my favourite. It loves to rev, the brakes stop you like an anchor and it forces you into a smoother style – but when it starts to go you’ve got a lot of work to do. Overall, though, an amazing car.’ If you’re wondering why Andy was so much slower than Nissan’s 7min 27sec (page 60), consider this: our time was over a full lap, not a lap minus the length of the pits; there was a small section of roadworks; he’d never before driven a GT-R and he did just one hot lap; our car came with factory rubber and suspension, not the optional tweaks Nissan offers any owner. It’s a close result, but the Porsche wins on both objective and subjective grounds in the hands of a highly skilled, independent driver. Case closed? Not quite. Turn the page to see Nissan’s riposte. car
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4:55SEC 5:00SEC 5:05SEC 5:10SEC 5:15SEC 5:20SEC 5:25SEC 5:30SEC 5:35SEC 5:40SEC 5:45SEC 5:50SEC 5:55SEC 6:00SEC 6:05SEC 6:10SEC 6:15SEC 6:20SEC 6:25SEC 6:30SEC 6:35SEC 6:40SEC 6:45SEC 6:50SEC 6:55SEC 7:00SEC 7:05SEC 7:10SEC 7:15SEC 7:20SEC 7:25SEC 7:30SEC 7:35SEC 7:40SEC 7:45SEC PORSCHE 911 GT3 7:49SEC 7:50SEC NISSAN GT-R 7:51SEC 7:55SEC 8:00SEC 8:05SEC 8:10SEC
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GÜLDEN’S BACK, GIDDY WITH POSTADRENALINE ENTHUSIASM. WE POINT HIM STRAIGHT BACK OUT IN THE GT-R
ANDY WHO? I Gülden first raced karts with the likes of Nick Heidfeld and Ralf Schumacher before progressing to F3. Today he’s freelance, a typical day at the office taking in everything from instructing aspiring drivers to scaring passengers in Aston’s Vantage racer. He’s done around 2000 laps of the Nordschleife
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PART FOUR: ENTER SPEC V – THE ULTIMATE GT-R Just when Porsche thought it was safe to crow, Nissan plays its ace. On the Nürburgring’s GP circuit, a winner emerges… Story Ben Berry Photography Mark Fagelson
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L
et’s imagine you’ve read through this Nürburgring special report in the linear order we rather hoped you might. That means the first thing you came to was Nissan’s new, faster GT-R lap time at the Nordschleife: a 7min 27sec scorcher courtesy of Toshio Suzuki in a stock GT-R. What we neglected to mention was that, of the four cars circulating during that attempt, one was the long-anticipated Spec V GT-R. Spec V? The moniker – albeit reversed – was first used on the R32 Skyline GT-R V-Spec of 1993, and stands for ‘Victory Specification’, a reference to the R32’s domination of Group A and N racing. Despite limited changes to all R32, R33 and R34 V-Spec models, the name has become synonymous with ultra-Skylines, the best of the best. This time around the mods are more extensive – brakes, suspension, exhaust, seats and more – as is the price. A European distribution plan is yet to be confirmed, but you can bet on a Rs 92.23 lakh price tag –
double the GT-R’s! More intriguingly, the Spec V’s specialist nature means a ‘flying doctor’ service is on the cards. Nissan will send a technician to your home come service time, avoiding the massive costs involved in re-tooling every dealer. It’s an interesting beast, then, this Spec V. In fact, it was the possibility – always a possibility – of watching it set a hot lap before driving it ourselves that made us even more determined to set up our ’Ring pilgrimage. Strange then that, after our long drive from England to Germany, GT-R boss Kazutoshi Mizuno proclaims that the Spec V will not be setting a time today despite the near-ideal conditions, nor will Nissan ever – EVER! – officially announce anything. ‘It is,’ says Mizuno-san, ‘for owners and journalists to imagine the time’. Hmm. Perhaps this adds to the ultimate GT-R’s mystique. Or perhaps, as more than one insider strongly hints to me, the Spec V just isn’t properly resolved yet. At least I won’t have to imagine driving it – later I’ll get the GP circuit to myself. But there is one chance to time the Spec V on the Nordschleife. Dirk Schoysman will be lapping in it, and with over 14,000 laps to his name, he’s a pretty good yardstick. So I stand at the end of the pitlane and time the Opal Black Spec V on my mobile phone, recording a 7min 44sec during the same timeframe in
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Black Rays wheels the biggest clue. That and your empty wallet
THE SPEC V WILL NOT BE SETTING A TIME TODAY, NOR WILL NISSAN EVER OFFICIALLY ANNOUNCE ANYTHING. HMM
Spec V’s titanium pipes can handle temperatures in excess of 680oc
NISSAN GT-R SPEC V Price Rs 92.23 lakh (UK est) On sale Now Engine 3799cc 24v twin-turbo V6, 485bhp @ 6400rpm, 586Nm @ 3200-5200rpm Transmission Six-speed dual-clutch auto, four-wheel drive Suspension Double wishbone front and rear Weight/made from 1680kg/steel Length/width/height 655/1895/1365mm Performance 3.5sec 0-100km/h, 309km/h, 8.2kmpl, 298g/km Rating 1111
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which Toshio Suzuki scored that 7min 27sec lap. Disappointing, sure, but there are a few problems with my extremely unscientific method of data collection: the fact that I measure Schoysman over a full lap, where Suzuki was timed, as per the industry norm, from the end of the pits to the start of the pits; that Schoysman wasn’t going for a time (‘I was pushing hard, maybe 95 percent’); and Nissan had decreed that he couldn’t press the button that – key to the Spec V, this – unleashes extra power and torque for 80-second bursts. Eventually Mizuno teases me with some clues (‘two seconds faster on the Nürburgring GP circuit than the GT-R’ and ‘the same time around Sendai [Japan’s Nürburgring] as the GT-R N1-spec racecar’), all of which makes me pull a sub-7min 20sec out of thin air. Sounds plausible. The next day the skies are clear and the track dry when I arrive to play spot the difference with the Spec V, and compare it with the Porsche GT3 (see page 64 for Georg Kacher’s full lowdown on the changes to that car). Aside from that unique colour (red, white, black and grey are also available), it’s hard to identify the Spec V signatures: there are brake cooling ducts in the front splitter, a carbon rear spoiler (made to the exact shape of the regular GT-R’s), black Rays wheels wrapped in new, more performanceorientated rubber (optional on the GT-R anyway), flecks of carbon on the ceramic brake discs, a discreet Spec V badge and, the biggest giveaway, chunky titanium exhaust pipes. What a monster it looks parked next to the Porsche. I love both designs, but there’s something about the brutality of the Nissan
boost (it retains the usual cruise control and the suggestions of late-night functions too). It’s not a particularly inspiring misbehaviour I find in those lines that tugs place to be, but then the Porsche is fairly harder at my heart strings. Climb into the Spec V and it feels similarly businesslike too. All the info you need, none of the fripperies you don’t. restrained to the GT3, and pretty hard to It’s the Spec V I drive first. I flick the separate from the GT-R. You’ll notice the transmission setting to R for the fastest new, manually adjustable Recaro seats that gearchanges, prime the turbo overboost are positioned a little lower and hug your shoulders a little more firmly, while still being function by doing the same, switch off the traction control, and head down the pitlane. perfectly comfortable. They’re snugger than I can’t really report on how firm the new those in the GT3, but then Porsche’s test car suspension is because the track is so smooth, came with optional comfort seats, in which you still feel embraced rather than abandoned and it’s tough to gauge the benefits the harder set-up and new Bridgestones bring to to slide around as you would on a vinyl cornering prowess because I’m allowed only bench seat in some American station wagon. three laps and there’s no standard GT-R to You’ll also notice that the Nissan’s rear benchmark it against. The reduced unsprung seats have disappeared, quilted fabric covers mass over the front end (lighter wheels, far and carbonfibre trim taking their place – lighter brake discs) does seem to lend an something that contributes to a hardly mindincreased sprightliness to direction changes, blowing 60kg saving over the regular GT-R. but overall it’s a very familiar experience. Much of this – the seats, wheels, exhaust and accompanying new diffuser – are offered Grip is incredibly high, the gearchanges are rapid-fire fast, the car feels reassuringly surethrough official Nissan motorsport outfit footed, the steering is light and direct Nismo to all GT-R customers, while similar without being darty. The exhaust is supposed suspension is available too. Only the carbon to improve response but, driven in isolation, bits – the brakes, rear spoiler and brake it’s impossible to tell. ducts – are off-limits. At first I forget to press the boost button, The Spec V has a few more flourishes up but when I do the revs scrawl around the rev its sleeve, but they’re hard to spot: there’s a counter with added eagerness. This dollop of new metal finish on the centre console, on-demand boost sounds like a cool idea, steering wheel and doorpulls; the three-stage like Formula One KERS technology adjustable suspension switch in the centre transferred to the road. Sadly, there’s no console makes way for a switch to ready the clever feeding back of power lost turbo overboost function, nuclear Brake cooling ducts under deceleration like there is in F1, weapon-style. That means the new, in the front splitter it’s more of a Fast And Furious-style firmer Bilstein suspension is nongive the game away. nitrous gimmick produced by – ta adjustable, while the steering Two laps later, the da! – burning more fuel. The wheel-mounted cruise control brakes are on fire. Bigger cooling ducts conditions under which you can use switch is marked with a turbo side needed, perchance? the extra oomph are pretty restrictive profile and actually deploys the
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Shootout GT-R vs 911 vs THE RING surprisingly user-friendly too, but you have too: engine and transmission temperatures to be absolutely determined to find it. have to be beyond a certain threshold, you Quite simply the GT3 is the better allmust select manual mode, you have to be in rounder. Somehow it manages to translate at least third gear and, once your 80 seconds the same brilliance it exhibits on the road are up, you have to wait the same time again direct to the track, where the extra space to get another hit – whether or not you used simply means you have more fun. It feels the boost when it was available. And then you only get 19Nm extra and the tiniest hit of lighter and more agile than the GT-R, the engine is so much more viscerally engaging, bhp beyond 2400rpm. the steering much purer, the brakes – not It’s all in the name of drivetrain longevity, ceramics on our car – have better initial feel apparently, but it’s too fiddly for me, and kept working over more laps than I especially when you remember that eking covered in the Spec V. 100bhp more out of the old R34’s bulletproof Ah yes, the Spec V’s carbon ceramic RB26DETT was as easy as an oil swap, and brakes. They cost an outrageous 4.7 million Nismo (heavily involved with R35 Yen (around Rs 28.08 lakh) and are pricier development) produced the official R34 Z Tune run-out model with 500bhp as standard than the stuff we’ve seen on Lamborghinis because, says Nissan, they have a higher and 600bhp an easy tweak away. Surely the carbon content – hence the darker sheen to Spec V should be a full-time 550-600bhp the discs. They should be brilliant. During monster for the money involved. Then again, my first few corners I feel slightly Nissan has churned out V-Spec IIs in the underwhelmed by the pedal feel, but tell past, so maybe that’s yet to come. myself that it will improve with heat. It does Gripes aside, when you can access that briefly, but I’m restricted to the shortest of additional bhp, it’s perfect for the track, the GP circuit’s configurations, and after where you just want to dispatch the three fun-sized laps the pedal’s gone mushy straights as quickly as possible. And it gives – I’ve generated enough heat to ignite the the chassis more of a work-out too. But I’ve always preferred working within the GT-R’s brake pads, and they smoulder embarrassingly as I return to the pits. limits on a fast road, rather than exploiting Okay, so Nissan did ask me to do an them on-track. You have to bully the nose emergency stop each time I crossed the into slow corners, while it all gets a bit finish line, but that also meant I was frantic when the front tyres try to pull you prevented from hauling the Spec V down out of oversteer moments. It feels clumsy to from big speeds for the tight right-hander the uninitiated, where the Porsche rewards that follows. Either way, I’m sure with confidence-inspiring traction Oddly for a road car, the the brakes would have cooked. and grip that only pushes into GT3 is right at home And when I’m allowed out for understeer if you try to ignore the here. Buoyed by a physics at work in a nose-light, rear- lifetime’s supply of grip, one extra lap, the brakes are shot, heavy car. Oversteer? The GT3 has it you ooze confidence and I have to mince. I can’t from every pore believe these problems will be there for the taking and it’s
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allowed to afflict the production car, but the Brembo test driver I spoke to declared himself happy with the components, though did point out that it was for Nissan to decide on pedal feel. Happy!? See those smoke signals from the paddock? They’re your brakes, they are. It’s been a huge honour to drive the Spec V, but I just can’t make a case for it when you take into account the huge premium it carries over the GT-R – not to mention its rival from Stuttgart. Yes, it’s a largely brilliant car to drive, but that’s because the GT-R is already fabulous. The problem with the Spec V is that it takes a base car that we’ve previously lauded as the best real-world performance car you can buy, then subtracts two of its key attributes – the everyday practicality of rear seats and adjustable suspension and an unbelievably generous bang-per-buck ratio. The Porsche GT3 is near-as-dammit as practical and cheaper too! To look at it in Porsche terms, the Spec V is to the GT-R what the slightly more hardcore GT3 RS is to the GT3 – it’s similar to drive, but carries more kudos. Yet the GT3 RS typically carries a Rs 12.03 lakh premium, not the Rs 48.15 lakh or so extra Nissan will demand. They seem to be treating the Spec V more like a 911 GT2. Which just doesn’t make sense. That said, no more than two Spec Vs can be built per day, and the appeal of that badge among GT-R enthusiasts means Nissan will easily sell all the cars it can produce. My advice? Buy the Spec V for its exclusivity alone. In every other way the standard GT-R – or, indeed, the magnificent Porsche GT3 – makes a lot more sense. car
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‘An eccentric ultra sports car for a superior customer,’ says Nissan. So, fast and pricey
All this and enough change from Spec V money to buy yourself a Boxster
THE GT3 TRANSLATES THE SAME BRILLIANCE IT EXHIBITS ON THE ROAD DIRECT TO THE TRACK PORSCHE 911 GT3
They’ll build two a day, and sell every last one of them
Price Rs 65.6 lakh (UK) On sale Now Engine 3797cc 24v flat six, 429bhp @ 7600rpm, 429Nm @ 6250rpm Transmission Six-speed manual, rear-wheel drive Suspension MacPherson strut front; multi-link rear Weight/made from 1395kg/steel Length/width/height 4460/1808/1280mm Performance 4.1sec 0-100km/h, 312km/h, 8kmpl, 298g/ km Rating 11111
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REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD GO
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Story Chris Chilton Photography Various 1 | BECAUSE IT’S THERE
Forget that planned quadruple garage that’s a little too close to your neighbour’s fence – can you imagine today proposing to your local council that they let you build an 29 km race circuit in the middle of a stunning forest punctuated by sleepy villages? That’s what happened in Germany’s Eifel mountains nearly 90 years ago when work began on the Nürburgring, a huge sprawling track closer in feel to legendary road routes like the Targa Florio than Britain’s Brooklands. When completed in 1927, the current Nordschleife was then just one part of a mammoth 28 km course that could be configured in various forms to suit different races. And, just as it does today, the ’Ring opened its gates to tourists on evenings and weekends. Racing resumed after the war but, as racing speeds jumped massively and deaths became more frequent, drivers such as Jackie Stewart started demanding improvements in safety measures. The track was closed in the early 1970s while miles of barriers were installed, several corners re-profiled and some vicious bumps smoothed. But the danger remained and Niki Lauda narrowly avoided being burnt to death after crashing near Bergwerk in the 1976 German Grand Prix. Although Grand Prix racing never returned to the Nordschleife after
2 Lauda’s accident, it did come back to the Nürburgring when the modern GP circuit was added to the site and opened in 1984. But the Nordschleife survives, earning its keep as a manufacturer test facility, hosting races and remaining a working toll road – a mecca for keen drivers. No-one will ever build another like it, which is exactly why you must go.
2 | TO TAKE A RIDE IN THE RING TAXI
You need to book ahead if you fancy some chauffeured silliness around the Nordschleife in a 500bhp BMW M5 driven by a ’Ring pro. It costs Rs 13,500 for one lap but up to three can ride at once. Is it proper quick? Well, they change tyres every ten laps. Click on www.bmw-motorsport.com/ ringtaxi to find out more. CAR India september 2009
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3 3 | TO SPOT LOADS OF GREAT CARS ON PUBLIC DAYS
Perhaps if Israel and Palestine shared a Nordschleife-like track they’d get along a lot better. On public days (Touristfahrten) you’ll see everything in the car park from decrepit Volkswagen Beetles to superbikes, blokes desperately ripping out the interior from their hot hatches to save weight and, of course, the dedicated ’Ring heads with their stripped interiors, cages and proper rubber. You’ll also see tons of Brits, many in 911s and M3s.
4 | BECAUSE MANUFACTURERS HAVE SECRET BASES THERE
So important has the Nordschleife become in developing a car that many car manufacturers have full-time bases here. But why do they come? Not because they want to develop a car that works better on a race circuit than a road, but because no circuit in 80
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the world provides such a stern test for a car. It’s all about durability. A day spent lapping the ’Ring simulates the sort of wear and tear that would take months to replicate on the road or a more conventional racetrack. If there’s a weakness in a prototype’s cooling systems, brakes or suspension components, lapping the Nordschleife will uncover it. Apart from BMW’s facility located right in the middle of Nürburg, most of the manufacturer test centres are located on a small industrial estate close to the ’Ring. Some, like Aston Martin’s new test centre, double as showrooms and are clearly branded – the Aston building even has a display window containing a current car visible from the main road. Others, like Porsche and Toyota prefer to keep their activities secret and are located in remote villages, tucked away in innocent-looking sheds carrying no branding whatsoever.
6 | FOR THE SCENERY
5 | TO SEE SECRET CARS TESTING
Unless you’re a bit of road kill in Death Valley you won’t come as close to so many secret cars as you can at the Nürburgring. And only at the ’Ring will you see secret cars being driven flat out, a feat possible from many of the free to access trackside viewing areas. For a closer look, loiter around the junction close to the Dorint Hotel that leads to the village of Nürburg from the 258 – test cars pass here on their way back to their workshops.
Compared with the flat and unremitting bleakness of an old airfield-derived circuit like Silverstone, the Nordschleife, cut into densely tree-packed hillsides and climbing 300m from its lowest to highest points, is absolutely stunning. But you don’t even need to drive the ’Ring to appreciate the spectacular countryside of the Eifel region. The minor roads around the circuit are often used by car manufacturers for testing and won’t cost you a penny. Many are quick with open corners for great visibility. And if you get your dates mixed up and arrive on a manufacturer test day when you’re not allowed onto the circuit, you can always hire a bike and follow the dirt trails that track the route of the Nordschleife. And if you’re still feeling energetic after that, take a walk up to the fortress (the burg bit in Nürburg) and admire the view.
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BERGWERK I Lauda crashed on the lefthander immediately before this right in ’76. Getting it right is important for the long charge up the hill afterwards
BRUNNCHEN I A huge dirt apron close to the track is easily accessed from the main road and gives great spectator views
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5 ADENAUER FORST I Great place to watch cocky virgins outbrake themselves into this unsighted left (and show-offs smoke tyres on the exit)
KARUSSELL I The 180deg Karussell is probably the ring’s most famous corner but not the most enjoyable, particularly in a stiff car
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3-FACH RECHTS KESSELCHEN
KALLENHARD
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8
bergwerk
BREIDSCHEID
WIPPERMANN KLOSTERTAL
BRUNNCHEN
KARUSSELL
ADENAUER FORST
SPRUNGHUGEL FUCHSROHRE
FUCHSROHRE I The Foxhole compression can be taken flat in many cars but it takes balls of steel and steady hands and feet to pull it off
nordschleife
AREMBERGKURVE
SCHWEDENKREUZ
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12 SCHWALBENSCHWANZ
GALGENKOPF I It’s crucial to get this penultimate corner and the next right if you’re to pull decent speeds on the main straight. Aim for the sign marked 186
GALGENKOPF DOTTINGER HOHE
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NEUE EINFAHRT flugplatz ANTONIUSBUCHE HATZENBACH TIERGARTEN
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flugplatz I No trouble in a supermini but really fast cars get airborne here. Appropriately, the name (flying place) is derived from glider flights on a nearby hill
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ANTONIUSBUCHE I The quick racers hit close to 322km/h down this heart-in mouth left-hander, but on tourist days you have to come into the pits beforehand. Just as well
7 | TO DRIVE THE MOST EXTRAORDINARY TRACK ON EARTH
Believe the hype. The Nordschleife is every bit as good to drive as legend would have it. But it’s not like doing a trackday at Bedford Autodrome. It’s bumpy, hilly and many of the corners initially look similar but aren’t. If you overcook it and come off, you’re likely to do some serious damage to your car, and possibly yourself. It’s not like playing it on the PlayStation either, but it’s worth putting a few hours in before you go to at least learn the corners. When you do get out on circuit take it slow to start with: it’ll take around 60 laps to feel truly comfortable. CAR India september 2009
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Photography: Stuart cannan/image © 2007 Digitalglobe/geocontent/tele atlas. See it in Google earth: www.earth.google.com
HOCHEICHEN
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AT THE RING 24 HOURS RACE YOU’LL SEE HOT HATCHES AND FULL-ON GROUP 2 SPORTS CARS SHARING THE SAME GRID
8 | TO SEE THE WORLD’S MOST THRILLING ENDURANCE RACE
Le Mans weekend guarantees excitement but at the Nürburgring 24 hours you’ll see hot hatchbacks and full-on group 2 sports cars sharing the same grid. There are big factory-backed teams and tiny Fred-in-a-shed outfits jostling for track space – it’s just like the old RAC rally. The weather isn’t always great but the atmosphere is electric. This year Aston is trying its luck in the new V12 Vantage while Audi is running its R8 LMS supercars. The action this year kicks off on May 22, so there may still be time to make that ferry. If not, get it in your diary for 2010. 82
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THE NORDSCHLEIFE TOP 20
THOSE LEGENDARY LAP TIMES IN FULL RADICAL SR8 I 6MIN 55SEC DATE I September 2005 DRIVER I Michael Vergers DODGE SRT-10 ACR I 7MIN 22.1SEC DATE I August 2008 DRIVER I Tom Coronel MASERATI MC12 I 7MIN 24.3SEC DATE I August 2008 DRIVER I Mark Basseng PAGANI ZONDA F CLUBSPORT I 7MIN 24.7SEC DATE I August 2008 DRIVER I Mark Basseng
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FERRARI ENZO I 7MIN 25.3SEC DATE I August 2008 DRIVER I Mark Basseng CORVETTE ZR1 I 7MIN 26.4SEC DATE I June 2008 DRIVER I Jim Mero NISSAN GT-R I 7MIN 27.5SEC DATE I April 2009 DRIVER I Toshio Suzuki PORSCHE CARRERA GT I 7MIN 28SEC DATE I July 2004 DRIVER I Walter Röhrl PORSCHE 911 GT2 I 7MIN 32SEC DATE I 2007 DRIVER I Walter Röhrl KOENIGSEGG CCX I 7MIN 33.6SEC DATE I August 2008 DRIVER I Mark Basseng
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FERRARI 430 SCUDERIA I 7MIN 39SEC DATE I July 2008 DRIVER I Horst von Saurma
9 | TO RENT A RACER
No, we’re not talking about caning that Peugeot 207 you hired from Cologne airport. Lapping the Nordschleife in your own car is something of a rite of passage, but if you’d rather risk trashing someone else’s wheels and have a few quid to spend, you can rent something purpose-built to tackle the ’Ring. Companies like RSR Nürburg can supply all manner of track-ready rentals, from a mildly tuned Alfa 75 for Rs 13,800 per half-day (other costs are up to you), right up to Rs 69,300 for a full day in the Renault Megane R26R including fuel and lap tickets. And if you’re feeling really flush you could swap the Megane for a BMW M3 CSL for Rs 1.04 lakh or even a Porsche 911 GT3 for Rs 1.46 lakh. The Rs 3,470 insurance excess might put you off the Porsche although you can reduce it if you take instruction from a pro, which is the quickest way to learn the track safely.
KOENIGSEGG CCR I 7MIN 34SEC DATE I October 2005 DRIVER I Horst von Saurma
BUGATTI VEYRON I 7MIN 40SEC DATE I December 2005 DRIVER I n/a MERCEDES-McLAREN SLR I 7MIN 40SEC DATE I July 2004 DRIVER I Klaus Ludwig
10 | TO EAT A MEAL AT THE PISTENKLAUSE RESTAURANT
After a hard day beating your car senseless on the Nordschleife, head down to the Pistenklause in Nürburg, located in the basement of the Hotel am Tiergarten, to swap hero stories. It’s run by the mother of ’Ring taxi-drivers – and now TV presenter – Sabine Schmitz. The beer is good and the walls are plastered with pictures of famous racers, iconic racing cars and even the odd smashed alloy wheel. A must for your first ’Ring visit.
LAMBORGHINI LP640 I 7MIN 40SEC DATE I January 2007 DRIVER I Giorgio Sanna FORD GT I 7MIN 40.6SEC DATE I n/a DRIVER I Markus Draper PORSCHE 911 GT3 (997) I 7MIN 42SEC DATE I June 2006 DRIVER I Walter Röhrl CORVETTE C6 ZO6 I 7MIN 42.9SEC DATE I 2005 DRIVER I Jan Magnussen PORSCHE 911 GT3 RS (997) I 7MIN 43SEC DATE I n/a DRIVER I n/a PAGANI ZONDA S I 7MIN 44SEC DATE I February 2005 DRIVER I Horst von Saurma SOURCE: WIKIPEDIA
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Shootout GT-R vs 911 vs THE RING JUST DO IT
THOSE LEGENDARY LAP TIMES IN FULL
GETTING THERE You can fly to Cologne/Bonn with budget carriers German Wings and Easyjet. You can hire a car for the 60-minute drive south, and use the same car for laps of the Nordschleife.But for the complete experience take your own car. From the south of England it’s quicker to drive than fly if you go by Eurotunnel. As the Nordschleife is a toll road, any crash should be covered under your normal European insurance, providing you’re not caught with full telemetry gear in your car. But do check.
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WHere to stay If you’ve got big pockets and want to be woken by the sound of M3s bouncing off their rev limiters, stay in the Dorint, which overlooks the GP circuit. Or do as we did and stay at the brilliant and very cheap Pension Diana just down the road in Döttingen.
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11. photography: LAT
11 | TO SOAK UP THE HISTORY
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Although it hasn’t hosted a grand prix for over 30 years, the original Nordschleife remains the site of some of the most incredible races ever. Races like the 1935 GP in which Tazio Nuvolari came from mid-pack to defeat the dominant state-ofthe-art Silver Arrows opposition on their home turf in an ageing Alfa Romeo.Or the 1936 Eifelrennen race in which Bernd Rosemeyer lapped quicker in a pea-souper than the legendary Rudolf Carraciola had managed in perfect weather the year before, taking 30sec a lap out of his competitors’ times and finishing the race two minutes ahead. After the war only the shorter Nordschleife (northern loop) was used for grand prix racing but the action was no less exciting. It was here, in 1957, that Fangio scored his greatest victory, making up for a disastrous pit stop that left him nearly a minute adrift of the leading
Ferraris by chopping 24sec off the lap record to win outright. The accidents are just as memorable. Some ended in tragedy; some, like Niki Lauda’s fiery off, came close. But others, like Manfred Winkelhock who performed a spectacular backflip in his F2 March in 1980, somehow walked away. And then there are Stefan Roser’s incredible antics in a Ruf Yellowbird.
12 | TO GIVE THE FAMILY A GREAT FUN WEEKEND
A rollercoaster that accelerates to 217km/h in 2.5sec – twice as fast as an F1 car – is the centrepiece of a Rs 1492 crore development at the Nürburgring that opens this summer, and includes a sports arena, casino, helipad and swanky shops. Think of it as a crèche to keep the wife entertained while you work on pulling off that 7:56 in your diesel Passat. car
Hotels www.pension-diana.com www.dorint.com www.hotel-an-der-nordschleife.de getting on the ring The track is only open to the public on certain days so don’t plan your dream trip without checking the Nordschleife calender at bridgetogantry.com or nurburgring.org.uk. It costs Rs 1500 for one lap but if you’re making a weekend of it it’s cheaper to buy in multiples (8 laps is Rs 10,000). And if you’re planning on racking up more than 70 laps in a year, a season ticket is around Rs 76,300. As the ’Ring isn’t technically a racing circuit your car must be road legal in every sense, but on the plus side you can carry passengers and don’t need a helmet. useful websites Official Nürburgring site www.nuerburgring.de (official site) Racecar rental www.rsrnurburg.com Useful ring web guides www.nurburgring.org.uk www.bridgetogantry.co.uk www.northloop.co.uk
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ROad test FIAT PUNTO 1.4 fire
I
n the last issue of CAR India we featured a comparison test of the diesel Punto. Shortly after we went into print, FIAT sent us another gorgeous Punto, but this time with a 1.4-litre FIRE (Fully Integrated Robotized Engine) petrol engine nestled under its hood. I was more than happy to be assigned this story for I was itching to get behind the wheel of this car for quite sometime. Penned by one of the greatest designers of our time, Giorgetto Giugiaro and team, the Punto looks utterly gorgeous. It is a design you just cannot dismiss. For those who do not agree, wait till you see it in the flesh. It definitely grows on you, just as it did on me. The car’s interiors are pretty stunning as well - the amber lit instrument cluster with the multifunction display in the middle gives it a classy yet sophisticated look. The leather wrapped steering wheel, available on the Emotion Pack trim, further exudes elegance and feels grand to hold. The rest of the dashboard is finished in dual tone grey and black, but the quality of plastics could have been a tad better. The top of the line Emotion Pack comes loaded with equipment that can put
FIRE? Given its credentials, adding a 1.4 petrol mill ought to make the Punto a damn good car right? But does it?
Story Ajay Joyson Photography Sanjay Raikar CAR India SEPTEMBER 2009
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ROad test FIAT PUNTO 1.4 fire
Top: The 1.4 litre FIRE petrol produces 90PS, but it hardly reflects in the drive Bottom: The dashboard looks great, but touch it and you will be dissapointed
With a kerb weight of1145kg, it is even heavier than some midsized sedans in the market 88
even some bigger cars to shame. The Punto features dual stage front airbags, a leather wrapped gear knob, automatic climate control, steering mounted controls, a trip computer and Microsoft’s Blue&Me system to name a few. Although space up front is good, the cramped footwell and the narrow dead pedal for the left foot are not very appealing. In case of a tall driver behind the wheel, legroom at the rear is restricted. The 60:40 double folding rear seats though add a practical touch, but the front seats are required to be moved forward for the rear seats to fold completely thus causing a slight inconvenience to taller drivers. After driving the Punto, to be honest, I came back a little disappointed. After falling head over heels for its design and equipment levels, this wasn’t what I had expected. The 1.4 FIRE engine is nowhere a scorcher as its name may suggest. The car feels sluggish when pushed and this is evident in the leisurely 0-100 timing of 16.78 seconds, which makes it two seconds slower than say the Maruti Ritz!
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Wheelbase 2510mm Overall length 3987mm Width(excluding mirrors) 1687mm Front track 1473mm Rear track 1466mm Kerb weight 1145 kg
SPECIFICATIONS ENGINE Cylinders Engine Layout Fuel supply Bore/stroke Cubic capacity Compression ratio Valvegear
Four Transverse Petrol 72 x 84mm 1368cc 11:1 DOHC, 4 valves per cyl
ENGINE OUTPUT Max power (PS) Power peak (rpm) Red line (rpm) Max torque (Nm) Torque peak (rpm)
crumpled road surface is certain to keep the Punto’s suspension busy, but it exhibits all the élan you’d expect of a hatch bred on the other side of the Indian Ocean. For a car of its size, the Punto rides extremely well and even manages to remain perfectly poised at high speeds. Comfort doesn’t come at the cost of handling in this car. Even when driven through the spaghetti twisties of the Western Ghats, the wide 195mm tyres (on the Emotion Pack) and the remarkable chassis provide plenty of mechanical grip. Engine noise does seem to penetrate the cabin at high revs. There is no denying that the Punto is engineered for safety (five-star Euro NCAP), comes loaded with equipment and at just Rs 5.63 lakh (ex-showroom, Pune), it offers fantastic value for money as well. But with an uninspiring performance, that too from a 1.4-litre motor, it is hardly what you call FIRE-y. car Classy looking instrument cluster.MFD gives loads of useful information like average speed, travel time, instant consumption, range, etc.
car Road Test #135
FIAT PUNTO 1.4 FIRE EMOTION PACK (Rs 5.63lakh ex-showroom Pune) 1111
Overall height 1495mm
Although the engine pumps out 90PS of power and 115Nm torque, one cannot overlook the fact that the Punto is a heavy car. With a kerb weight of 1145kg, it is even heavier than some midsized sedans in the market. Although a drive on the highway seemed to be less inspiring, the Punto felt absolutely at home in the city. Good low end torque of the engine coupled with a short gearing makes the Punto a delight to drive in stop and go traffic. Even with the top gear selected, the car will tug along without a hint of hesitation in slow city speeds. We would have liked the steering to be a touch more direct and communicative. It is light enough in slow moving traffic, but a little daunting as speeds begin to climb. A
90 6000 NA 115 4500
TRANSMISSION Five speed manual 1st gear 2nd gear 3rd gear 4th gear 5th gear Reverse gear
4.27 2.23 1.52 1.15 0.87 NA
Drive wheels
FWD
WHEELS AND TYRES Wheel size Tyre size
STEERING Type Power assisted hydraulic rack and pinion Lock to lock 2.7 SUSPENSION Front Independent, MacPherson strut with coil spring Rear Non independent torsion beam axle ACCOMODATION Seating Head Room, F/R KneeRoomF(max/min) KneeRoomR(max/min) Shoulder space Fuel tank Boot space
15” 195/60 R15
BRAKES Front Rear
Ventilated disc Drums
MAXIMUM SPEED (km/h) Gear True Speedo 1 38.7 45 2 73.3 82 3 108.4 117 4 137.7 147 5 158 167
BRAKING TEST From 80km/h to 0 From 100km/h to 0
27.55m/2.46s 43.32m/3.15s
OVERTAKING ACCELERATION Roll-ons 3rd 4th 40-60 4.41 6.98 60-80 4.56 7.39 80-100 5.8 8.13 100-120 10.42
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5 915/890mm 890/690mm 840/625mm 1270mm 45 liters 280-1030 liters
DRIVER AIDS Airbags, ABS, adjustable steering, ORVMs, day/night RVM, dead pedal
TEST RESULTS
PERFORMANCE FACTORS Power/mass (PS/tonne) Power/litre (PS/litre) Torque/litre (Nm/litre)
5th 10.8 9.71 11.02 11.85
FUEL CONSUMPTION City 10.5 kmpl Highway 15 kmpl Overall* 11.6 kmpl * Overall is 25% highway and 75% city driving
TEST CONDITIONS Altitude Weather
63.85 60.89 157.85
16.78s
100
10.70s
80
6.35s
60
ACCELERATION (km/h)
3.39s
40
1.2s
20 0
550m above MSL Cool, windless, wet
TIME, SECONDS 0
0-400metres sprint: Terminal speed:
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
22
20.17s 107.56km/h
1km sprint: Terminal speed:
37.86s 133.55km/h
1111 11112 1111 11112 1111
Suspension: Ride Quality: Handling: Steering: Braking:
11112 11112 1111 1111 11112
CAR RATING Design & Style: Powertrain: Performance: Fuel Efficiency: Dynamic Ability:
11112 1112 1112 111 11112
Space: Creature Comforts: Driver Appeal: Safety: Interiors:
CAR INDIA’s test and performance data is the sole copyright of Next Gen Publishing Ltd. No part of the data or text can be used in any form for any purpose or promotion or advertisement without the explicit written permission of the editor. Performance testing by Aspi Bhathena
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First drive driven Porsche Porsche cayman cayman S S
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Guten tag! Adhish Alawani drives the facelifted 2009 Porsche Cayman right in its home ground
Photography Adhish Alawani & Anand Kulkarni CAR India September 2009
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FIRST DRIVE DRIVEN PORSCHE PORSCHE CAYMAN CAYMAN S S
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1. The PDK is a technological marvel. Not only does it manage ultra quick gear shifts, but also cuts down the fuel consumption by a great extent
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AST MONTH, DURING our 0-100-0km/h performance analysis, the Porsche PR guy was with us while we tested the 911 Turbo. During a conversation with him, I learnt about the new museum that the German company had inaugurated in Stuttgart recently. Since I was traveling to Stuttgart for MotoGP this month, it made a lot of sense for me to visit this new showcase of some of the best race cars ever made by Porsche. On learning about my trip, the Porsche guy promptly offered me a drive in the latest Cayman S around Stuttgart since I was traveling there in any case. More than happy to get a drive of the German car in no better place than its hometown, I grabbed the opportunity and a couple of phone calls later, my date with the beauty had been set up. Back in 2005, around the same time of the year, Porsche showcased the Cayman S at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The car made its debut in
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2.The chronograph on the dash comes as part of the Sports Chrono Package. You can record your own lap times on a racetrack using a pedal provided behind the steering wheel 3. The Cayman S gets 18-inch wheels as default. However, Porsche also offers 19-inch ones as an option 4. The touch screen centre console acts as a GPS navigation system and a telephone in addition to being a multimedia player
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2006 as an intermediate model between the Boxter and the legendary 911. Chiefly based on the Boxter, the Cayman S was an underdog until the Stuttgart company launched a facelifted version of the car for 2009. What is noteworthy here is that the refreshed Cayman S is one of the best Porsches in the firm’s current lineup. Looking at the Cayman S as a facelift, there are small bits on the exterior front that distinguish the car from its predecessor. The first things you will notice are the revised headlights and a new set of LED day time running lights placed in the faintly redesigned front bumper. At the rear, you come across the aggressive new LED tail lamps and a refreshed rear bumper. Apart from these bits, like a typical Porsche, the Cayman S retains its basic form and gives more importance to better engineering going into the car – something that definitely matters more to the enthusiast than anything
else. Get inside the new Cayman S and everything is almost the same unless you opt for the new multimedia touch console and the sports package which includes the chronograph. Without wasting too much time appreciating this streamlined aerodynamic beauty, I got into the car to get a feel of what the 3.4-litre mill residing behind the seats was capable of. The flat-six cylinder engine now boasts 49cc more than its pervious edition translating to an increase of almost 25PS in peak power and a boost of 30Nm in max torque. What Porsche introduces on the Cayman S this year (as an option of course and at a heavy premium of Rs 2.83 lakh) is the Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe or simply the Porsche Double-clutch Gearbox (PDK). Leaving aside all these details on paper, I decided to fire up the engine to experience everything first hand. The six-cylinder boxer residing a few inches behind the
The six-cylinder boxer sitting behind your seat is potent enough to do the 0-100km/h sprint in less than five seconds
only two seats available in the car make the sound that could make every car buff fall for it. The sharp, deep yet crisp exhaust note even at idle makes you believe that you are about to drive a Porsche which is meant to expel performance in every possible manner. The Cayman S with the PDK in the normal driving mode manages to accelerate from 0-100km/h in a mere 5.1 seconds. With the Sports Chrono Package which includes a launch control mode, you can achieve this feat in a mere 4.9 seconds. Since I was driving a Cayman S loaded with this package and the first thing I noticed on the centre console was the sports mode, I decided to experience the sheer fun of the exhilarating acceleration myself. Of course, this was after a bit of pootling around town as I made my way onto the autobahn. The Cayman S turns into a wild beast in the sport mode with the suspension stiffening up, gearshifts
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FIRST DRIVE DRIVEN PORSCHE PORSCHE CAYMAN CAYMAN S S becoming quicker and the throttle response improving by a considerable amount. The technical marvel in the form of the PDK makes unbelievably quick gear shifts, however, the push-to-upshift/ pull-to-downshift plastic like buttons on the steering wheel take time getting used to. Nonetheless, I was rather busy enjoying the brisk acceleration and the breathtaking 200km/h + speeds at every given speed limitless section of the autobahn – something that is relatively elating for an Indian. But can a drive in a Porsche be complete without letting it loose around winding roads? Of course not. Hence I decided to take a detour from the autobahn into the woods to grab some of the bends around the countryside roads of Germany. This is where the Cayman S actually came into its true form. Since its launch, it has been the lightest, most responsive and the best handling product from the Porsche stable. What adds to this advantage is the new limited-
slip differential offered on the Cayman S for optimum traction out of tight, slippery corners. It allows you to keep the car in the powerband right from the apex as you start exiting the corner and delivers all the power with absolutely fantastic traction giving more confidence to boot around the bends than ever. Aiding the wonderful handling of the Cayman S is the position of its engine which finds place ahead of the rear wheels. This makes the car steer with utter confidence, precision and inertiafree balance around corners. After driving around the autobahns at speeds above 200km/h and witnessing the finesse of the Cayman S’ handling on the winding country roads, it was time for me to return back to the Porsche office in Stuttgart from where I had picked up the car. I was very surprised to see that the car had managed to cover more than 350km with a ruthlessly heavy foot flooring the pedal at every given opportunity and cruising at high speeds at all
The new Cayman S has retained its basic form. Minor cosmetic changes include redesigned headlamps, bumpers and tail lamps
other times in just about 35 litres of fuel translating into an efficiency of around 10kmpl. The PDK does its job here as well. While you prefer to cruise, the PDK makes sure that it shifts to the seventh gear as soon as it can and takes you around at minimum engine revs. So where does the Cayman S stand at the end of the day? It has a performance that will give any auto aficionado wet dreams. It is probably the best handling Porsche. It is a sportscar which is as efficient as some of the cheap, dull sedans roaming around the city. The Cayman might not have the practicality of four seats or the lookat-me convertible’s attitude, but then it has a character which will make you fall in love with it every time you prod the throttle. Mind you, this is just the midlife facelift of the Cayman S and it is so fantastic. The completely revamped version will make its way into the market not before 2012. But then who cares? For now, this is undoubtedly ‘the Porsche’ to buy. car
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NEED TO KNOW
PORSCHE CAYMAN S
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Price
Rs 68 lakh (Approx. ex-showroom with PDK)
Engine
3436cc, 320PS, 370Nm
Transmission
Seven-speed automatic, rear-wheel drive
Performance
4.9 secs 0-100km/h, 257km/h top speed
Fuel efficiency
13kmpl (overall claimed)
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FEATURE CI POWER PERSONALITIES ‘09
POWER
PERSONALITIES
2009
Belonging to the upper echelons of the Indian car industry, these high achievers command respect for elevating the standards of the domestic fourwheeler segment. CAR India profiles the men who are set to continue their dominance over the country’s automotive landscape
By Monica Thakkar CAR India SEPTEMBER 2009
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FEATURE CI POWER PERSONALITIES ‘09 THE THIRD GENERATION SCION OF MAHINDRA and Mahindra (M&M), Anand Mahindra majored in film making and photography before he secured an MBA degree from the Harvard Business School and set out on a career with the M&M Group. He came into his own when he joined the conglomerate’s flagship tractor producing division in 1991. Dubbed the Renaissance man by the Harvard Business Review, he has earned kudos for turning the conservative utility vehicle manufacturing outfit he inherited into a global powerhouse with a presence on several continents. The company, under Mahindra’s stewardship, has continued climbing higher up the ladder of success and is currently the market leader in India’s utility vehicles segment. Nonetheless, it was trial by fire for Mahindra when he ventured into the Indian SUV segment with the Scorpio. The vehicle contributes significantly to the firm’s top line along with the highly appreciated Bolero. M&M recently took the wraps off their newest model, the XYLO. Anand Mahindra has been felicitated with the Qimpro Platinum Standard (Business) 2008 award, Business India’s Businessman of the Year 2007 award, the Businessworld FICCI-SEDF Corporate Social Responsibility award in addition to several top honours conferred upon him over the years that he so richly deserves.
ANAND MAHINDRA VICE CHAIRMAN AND MD, MAHINDRA AND MAHINDRA LIMITED
RATAN TATA CHAIRMAN, TATA MOTORS RATAN TATA, THE CHAIRMAN OF ONE OF INDIA’S largest privately held conglomerate that bears his family name needs no introduction. He not only received encomiums from all over the world after the unveiling of the Nano in 2008 but also broadened the global automotive presence of TATA Motors by acquiring British brands, Jaguar and Land Rover. His strategic acumen has seen the company’s portfolio expand to include models spanning two diametrically opposite ends of the automotive spectrum. Not averse to taking risks, Tata has the humility of a man who thinks far ahead of his times. However, it hasn’t been all smooth sailing for the 72-year-old bachelor. Besides remaining steadfast while battling the recent Singur controversy, he has turned the tables on his critics in the past too when he launched the Indica. “I have confidence in what we can do, provided we are critical enough about what we can do and we have a desire to improve,” Tata states. He spearheaded TATA Motors’ 2004 listing on the New York Stock Exchange and was recently ranked by Fortune magazine as one of the World’s 25 Most Powerful Businessmen. India’s automotive legacy would be incomplete without TATA Motors. History rests on Ratan Tata and it is only fitting that the dignified leader catapults his firm into the next league as a world class automobile company.
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AFTER EMERGING AS THE SECOND LARGEST passenger carmaker in India, Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) led by Heung Soo Lheem, is gearing up to claim the number one spot. The Korean firm already enjoys a market share of slightly more than 20 percent in the domestic segment and accounted for a massive 78 percent of passenger car exports from India in 2008. The Managing Director of the fastest growing automaker in the country began his career with Hyundai Motor Company in 1973 at a local parts development department. He headed the Overseas Operation in Canada in 1985 and was appointed to work as a Liason Officer between Hyundai Motor Company and Mitsubishi Motor Sales of America in Los Angeles (U.S.A) in 1988. In 1995, Lheem was promoted as the Director In-Charge for Overseas Export Project. He moved to India from Hyundai’s Turkey plant where he was heading the company’s Overseas Operations. Buoyed by the i10’s praise worthy performance, HMIL went a step ahead by introducing the small car’s sibling, the i20 hatchback and its diesel and automatic variants this year. Lheem has set his sights high and is confident of scaling up the company’s market share to over 25 percent by 2012.
HEUNG SOO LHEEM MD, HYUNDAI MOTOR INDIA LIMITED
SHINZO NAKANISHI MD AND CEO, MARUTI SUZUKI INDIA LIMITED TWENTY FIVE YEARS AGO, SHINZO NAKANISHI was part of the initial team that set up the automobile joint venture, Maruti Udyog Limited with the Indian government in 1983-84. That venture, now known as Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL), currently sells half the cars sold in the country. Nakanishi played a critical role in Maruti’s disinvestment and has been the company’s Non-Executive Chairman since 2002. After taking over the reins of the country’s largest carmaker by sales in 2007, he has maintained MSIL’s domination in the overcrowded Indian market. Nakanishi put into action Suzuki Motor Corporation’s (the firm’s Japanese parent) promise of making India a global small car hub with mega investments spanning manufacturing, R&D and design. He boosted the firm’s compact car lineup with the introduction of MSIL’s world strategic models, the A-star and the Ritz that are equipped by their next generation K series engine. The 61-year-old has also initiated work on Maruti’s hybrid vehicles that are expected to be demonstrated at the Commonwealth Games next year. With Nakanishi stationed at the helm of affairs, MSIL has maintained its identity and profitability as a small carmaker while continuing to expand its portfolio by a strong presence in other segments as well.
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FEATURE CI POWER PERSONALITIES ‘09 AT THE NDTV PROFIT CAR INDIA AWARDS 2009, Volkswagen and its group companies claimed three prestigious titles in different categories. The Škoda Fabia received the honour for the Small Car of the Year, the Audi A4 3.2 bagged the award as the Premium Car of the Year and the VW Jetta was declared the Executive Car of the Year. Ensuring a steadily expanding market share is VW India President and MD, Jörg Müller. Europe’s largest car manufacturer has followed a top-down strategy, starting with premium models and going down to the mass market cars, to roll out products for the domestic market. The German auto giant is now gearing up to play the volumes game in India with its soon-to-debut small car, the Polo. With the introduction of the Beetle in the pipeline, VW will straddle nearly every segment of the domestic market. The firm recently inaugurated their 110,000 units per annum, state-of-the-art Chakan plant. Set up in just 17 months, the facility spread over 575 acres, was completed ten months ahead of schedule and signifies the single largest investment of Rs 3,800 crore by any German company in the domestic market to date. The Müller led VW Group has not only established an enviable reputation for quality build, great handling and frugal engines but it is on its way to dominating the Indian market in times to come.
JÖRG MÜLLER PRESIDENT AND MD, VOLKSWAGEN INDIA
MASAHIRO TAKEDAGAWA PRESIDENT AND CEO, HONDA SIEL CARS INDIA LIMITED AND HEAD - SOUTH WEST ASIA, HONDA MOTOR COMPANY LIMITED IT WAS IN 2005 THAT MASAHIRO TAKEDAGAWA, then Head of Honda’s Global Planning Division, took over as the President and CEO of Honda Siel Cars India Limited. He has proven his credentials in a very short time by scripting Honda’s success in the domestic car market. The Japanese firm has witnessed sales rising steadily since Takedagawa’s appointment. Within a year of his arrival in India, he was given additional responsibilities as the Head of Honda’s overall operations in the entire South West Asia region in 2006. Takedagawa is a Bachelor of Economics from Rikkyo University, Japan. He always wanted to work in a car company and started his career with Honda in 1979 as a trainee at the firm’s Sayama factory where he painted Accords on the shop floor. In 1980, he was appointed Area Manager for the company’s car retail operations in Japan. He spent the next two decades holding various positions in different markets across the globe before coming to India. In 2009, Honda entered the country’s premium hatchback segment with the Jazz. Under the supervision of Takedagawa, the Honda brand name and reliability has come to be associated with strong resale values unmatched by the competition.
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A VETERAN IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY with more than 20 years of experience under his belt, Michael Boneham took over the reins as Ford India’s President and MD last June. He has held a number of senior international manufacturing positions within Ford Motor Company in the past. Boneham is now eager to tap into the growth potential of the country’s flourishing small car segment where Ford currently has no products on offer. Scheduled to be launched early next year, the length of the attractively priced car will be less than four meters and it will be equipped with a sub 1.2-litre petrol and a sub 1.5-litre diesel engine. Although the road maybe bumpy for the firm’s US parent, Ford’s Indian subsidiary made a sizeable investment of $500 million as part of its expansion programme. The company is planning to double the capacity of its Maraimalai Nagar plant near Chennai to 200,000 units and set up a low displacement engine and transmission facility with a capacity of 250,000 units. Ford is close on the heels of introducing a facelifted version of the Endeavour and is beefing up its sales network across India as well. With Boneham’s comprehensive knowledge in launching key new products for the company in multiple markets, Ford India has every reason to smile.
MICHAEL BONEHAM PRESIDENT AND MD, FORD INDIA
KARL SLYM PRESIDENT AND MD, GENERAL MOTORS INDIA EXCLUDED FROM TROUBLED AMERICAN parent’s bankruptcy proceedings, General Motors’ Indian chief, Karl Slym is going firmly ahead with new launches and variants of the firm’s existing models for 2009-10. Born in Derby, England, on February 9, 1962, Slym began his career with GM in 1995 as a Lean Manufacturing Advisor at the Opel Eisenach operation in Germany moving on to General Assembly Manager at the same facility. In 1997, he was appointed Director of Manufacturing for the new Opel Polska plant in Poland. He was Vice President of Quality for GM Asia Pacific and GM Daewoo Auto and Technology before stepping in as President and MD of GM India on October 1, 2007. In the last year, Slym has raised dealerships in the country by almost a 100 percent to 203 and another 50 are likely to open soon. GM India, which has invested Rs 5,000 crore so far, has already committed funds for both their manufacturing facilities located at Halol and Talegaon. The company offers a three-year free service scheme and the issue of resale value of GM cars has been addressed by the roll out of their used car retail initiative named Chevrolet OK. Steered by a man who evaded what could have been a worse case crisis situation, GM India is ready to move forward with confident strides towards a long term, profitable future.
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FEATURE CI POWER PERSONALITIES ‘09
LEVERAGING MERCEDES-BENZ’S INVINCIBLE leadership position in India’s high-end car market is the firm’s MD and CEO, Dr. Wilfried Aulbur. In spite of increasingly fierce competition, the S-class is still the best selling luxury limo in the country. The German car manufacturer has maintained its edge in 2009 with the launch of its famed hyper performance AMG roadsters and the new M-class. The latest E-class is soon going to debut here as well. To meet future expansion requirements, Mercedes-Benz recently inaugurated a new manufacturing facility at Chakan on a 100 acre site. Dr. Aulbur has over 50 presentations and publications to his credit across a range of topics. After earning his Ph.D in Physics from the Ohio State University, USA in 1996, he subsequently worked as a post-doctoral researcher at the University of California and the Ohio State University. Between 2000 and 2002, he headed the Business Development and Strategy function at the DaimlerChrysler Research Center India (Bangalore). Before assuming his responsibilities at Mercedes-Benz India in 2006, he was the Executive Assistant of the Head of Mercedes Car Group. With Dr. Aulbur steering the fortunes of India’s most sought after premium marque, the allure of the three-pointed star remains as potent as ever.
DR. WILFRIED AULBUR MD AND CEO, MERCEDES-BENZ INDIA LIMITED
PETER KRONSCHNABL PRESIDENT, BMW INDIA PETER KRONSCHNABL FIRST CAME TO THE country in 1994 as a graduate student to work on his master’s thesis on the image of European luxury cars in India. Born on 12 June 1966, he has previously completed a compulsory 18 month stint in the military and was drafted into the NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization). He joined the German luxury car manufacturer in 1995 after securing an International Business Management degree from Pforzheim University of Applied Sciences. As part of BMW AG, Kronschnabl worked as General Manager - Market Development in Asia Pacific, Africa and Eastern Europe. He took on the Indian assignment in August 2006 as President of BMW India. His vision was to make the Bavarian firm a market leader in the country’s premium segment. Today, Kronschnabl has achieved his goal as the German marque began 2009 in the grandest way by selling 270 units in January - a growth of 18.4 percent vis-à-vis the first month of 2008. BMW India sold 1,232 units between January and April 2009, surpassing its archrival’s 1,014 units sold during the same period. This steep increase in volumes is courtesy the company’s latest 3 and 5 Series sedans as well as the launch of the new 7 Series and the X6. With BMW targeting vast expansion in tier II towns, Kronschnabl can undoubtedly keep up the momentum achieved.
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THE COUNTRY’S SOLE ELECTRIC CAR manufacturer, Bangalore-based REVA Electric Car Company (RECC) is also the first firm worldwide to successfully commercialize electric vehicles. From raising funds and developing technologies to forming a capable team and overcoming marketing hurdles, RECC founder Chetan Kumaar Maini has seen it all. Today the made in India, EEC (European Economic Community) certified car that was christened with his mother’s name - REVA in Sanskrit means a new beginning - is sold in 21 countries across Europe, Asia, Latin and Central America. Fascinated by cars since childhood, Chetan built a remote controlled toy car and won the school prize. His hobby led him to specialize in solar electric vehicles from the University of Michigan. Later, he got interested in hybrid electric vehicles while completing his Masters in Mechanical Engineering from Stanford University. RECC is currently mulling over setting up a second facility in India. Slated to be operational by 2011 with an annual capacity of 30,000 vehicles, it will be the largest electric car plant in the world. Chetan Maini breezed into BusinessWeek’s list of the Top 50 Most Powerful People in India 2008 with aplomb and also finds a spot in Car India’s Power Personalities List 2009.
CHETAN KUMAAR MAINI DEPUTY CHAIRMAN AND CTO, REVA ELECTRIC CAR COMPANY PRIVATE LIMITED
HIROSHI NAKAGAWA MD, TOYOTA KIRLOSKAR MOTORS LIMITED “IN THE WORLD MARKET, WE ARE A LEADER but in India we have challenges. We take India as a challenging market,” says Hiroshi Nakagawa, MD, Toyota Kirloskar Motors (TKM). Now in its second decade in the country, the Indian unit of Japan’s Toyota Motor Corp is aiming to expand its domestic market share. Their big task at hand is to go mainstream in order to make the world’s largest passenger car manufacturer the strongest volume player in the country. Toyota recently rolled out a refurbished Innova and is currently developing a small car for the local market which will be ready in the next two years. In 2009, the firm unveiled its internationally successful premium SUV, the Land Cruiser, the Fortuner and a facelifted Camry. Among other new vehicles expected to be launched are the RAV4 in addition to the Yaris sedan and hatch. Nagakawa, 54, has more than three decades of experience in sales, new model development, production and product support at Toyota. A former General Manager at the Tsusumi plant of Toyota in Japan, he has previously worked at the firm’s Thai plant as well. Although India may have been on the back burner for the company so far, with Nakagawa overseeing matters, Toyota has made the domestic market a top priority for moving forward.
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Our Cars
Bunny Punia’s M&M XYLO
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he XYLO has turned out be a true workhorse over the last three months. It has performed flawlessly whether it was for quick day trips from Pune to Mumbai or as a backup vehicle for photo shoots like the 0-100-0 performance article last month and the premium SUV slugfest this month. Well almost! The vehicle also served well during a 600km Mahabaleshwar trip done by the Mumbai guys last month. In fact, with its immense interiors, the XYLO was a boon for Sanjay as well as Sarmad to shift their expensive and fragile household goods on more than one occasion. This Mahindra remains my preferred choice for daily driving stints. There is ample torque in the low rev range which means I can potter around in traffic with the gear lever slotted in third and fourth. In fact, this helps when it comes to extracting the best fuel economy
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from the engine – the XYLO has been returning over 11kmpl on a regular basis. The huge fuel tank gives it a comfortable range of over 500km before requiring a tank up. On highways, which the vehicle has been to on numerous occasions, the strong 2.5-litre engine can easily tease other sedans. On the recent SUV shoot for example, the big Mahindra cheesed off quite a few unsuspecting drivers with its speedometer needle stuck near the 170km/h mark for miles! However, there have been a few niggles recently. The air-con gas leaked, the engine belt starting making a loud squeaking noise and the brakes have started biting hard on the rear left tyre when cold. Another issue has been the hard shift action from the first to the second gear. The occasional second row occupants do get thrown around on bumpy roads, but I am not
Factfile
With us for: Three months Fuel eff (kmpl): 11-12 Kilometers: 10950 km Expenses: Nil Highs: Spacious, ego massager, punchy yet efficient engine Lows: Unsettled ride, looks
complaining. For me, the XYLO remains the obvious choice for heading home after work. There is ample storage space in the form of cup holders and cubbyholes for my wallet, two phones, a water bottle, a packet of chips and the i-Pod (which is always connected to the music system). It might not be the prettiest thing on four wheels, but its sheer size (and a loud horn) is a great way to make others give you way on the road. Even with other long term options in the office, I still prefer to stick to this one.
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The new Yokohama tyres have improved the ride quality
Aspi’s Bhathena’s VW Jetta
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he Jetta has been through a lot since the last update. First there was a slight mishap during which the right rear tail lamp broke and there were a few scratches on the bumper. It was quite an impact and it only shows how strong and solidly built this car is. I must say that I was really impressed with the Pune Volkswagen workshop for their prompt service in fixing the tail lamp and also servicing the car in one day.
We have put new 215/55/16 Yokohama DB tyres and that has made a world of a difference to the car. Road noise has reduced tremendously, the ride quality has also improved by a couple of notches and the handling is much better than before. Upsizing the tyres have led to improvements in every aspect over the car with standard tyres. Let me tell you that the Jetta in standard trim is not a bad car.
FACTFILE
With us for: Six month Fuel eff (kmpl): 14-18 Kilometers: 7510km Expenses: Nil Highs: Fuel Efficiency Lows: Biege colour interiors
The road conditions in Pune have deteriorated considerably in the last couple of months and the Jetta has been taking them in its stride with not a squeak or a rattle from her. I have clocked another 3000km on the clock since the last update and the car is still returning 14kmpl in town and 18kmpl on the highway. My only grouse with the Jetta are its beige interiors which are a pain to keep clean in the monsoon.
Sarmad Kadiri’s Maruti Suzuki Ritz
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have been driving this zippy hatch some more room to fit a normal one for close to two months now and litre bottle on the door panel. I just have not faced any serious love the position of the gear knob and problem with it. Since I am a the butter smooth gearbox further complete music buff, I made full use accentuates the pleasant drive. The of the integrated music system and its new K12M engine is fun to drive and steering mounted controls, especially delivers power smoothly as soon as while driving around FACTFILE you step on the gas, making congested lanes. The car’s overtaking easy and stress With us for: Two month Fuel eff (kmpl): 12-13 tall-boy design and high free. Since my Ritz is limited Kilometers: 6235km ground clearance was a to city driving as of now, I Expenses: Nil saviour during the monsoons. Highs: Ground clearance get a fuel economy of around I feel there should have been Lows: None yet 12-13kmpl.
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ADVENTURE MAHINDRA GREAT ESCAPE
You don’t expect over 300 participants desperate to scale unseen terrains in monsoons. Hari Singh led the brute machines after V. Nayer, Sr. VP (M&M) flagged them off
TRAIL
BLAZE Mahindra & Mahindra organize the 50th Great Escape off-road adventure in Goa
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S
INCE 1996, MAHINDRA & MAHINDRA HAVE been conducting the Great Escape off-road adventure in order to promote the tough and rugged DNA that their SUVs inherit. Every year this non-competitive drive is held at different places across the country and M&M couldn’t have found a better place than Goa and a better season than the monsoons to commemorate the golden jubilee of the event. This deadly combination offered just the right kind of challenges where we had to depend on the capability of our vehicles more than anything else. To my astonishment, over 300 participants with 72 vehicles joined this one of a kind rally, ready to test their Mahindras over unseen terrains. It was surprising to see families join in with their kids as well. And then there was Hari Singh, the five time National Rally champion, who led the convoy of land crushers. Even before we hit the designated off-road route, the convoy of rugged looking vehicles passing through the small town of Margao witnessed awestruck people with dropped jaws. Fascinated school going children waved at us with a “will we see you in one piece again?” look on their faces. The game began as
the vehicles got off the tarmac and onto the uphill trail. Now the Scorpios, the Boleros, the Classics and the Legends started following a track good enough only for a tractor. The brute machines satisfied the twisted uneven trail’s demand for high ground clearance and torque. It’s just the beginning, said somebody familiar with the route. The convoy crossed the hill and soon came another one. Even though the rain gods weren’t kind enough to bless us with a downpour, Vaibhav Marathe, an INRC (Indian National Rally Championship) racer took the first opportunity to thrill everyone by sloshing through muddy grooves in his Bolero. The vehicles got around another hill only to find a seasonal riverbed to cross through. Now this looked like a tough challenge. The knee deep mud started separating the men from the boys – the 2WD from the 4WD vehicles. It was not unusual witnessing over enthusiastic drivers burying their vehicles deeper and deeper in the mucilage. While some were rescued by their skills, others were pulled out by 4WD vehicles. You get to understand the requirement of a 4x4 configuration for off-roading. The winch becomes a major equipment as the saviour. As a team, all the
Where fun means escaping the daily routine of life, going off-road, conquering hills and getting dirty with some crazy friends
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ADVENTURE MAHINDRA GREAT ESCAPE
A live tale of men and their machines. The seemingly old Mahindras stun you with their land scaling capabities be it uphill, downhill, rock or mud
vehicles rumbled through streams with rocks underneath, sluggish water, steep uphill terrains as well as seemingly impossible downhill trails. Then came the rocky laterite hills and the Mahindras thundered ahead effortlessly. Suvir who was behind the wheel of our Getaway engaged the 4WD mode, splashed through one foot deep trenches and made sure all the media persons aboard got enough sticky dirt on their shirts. And still all of us were smiling. After conquering the 56km long terrain, I saw similar smiles of pride on four boys in their early teens, who had
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joined a team to quench their thirst for adventure. As Vivek Nayer - Senior VP Marketing, Automotive Sector, M&M puts it, the golden jubilee of the Great Escape was a tribute to the Mahindra spirit of adventure that tests the dependable rugged characteristics of the vehicles made by the company. Who else other than Sandeep Desai can understand it! The off-roading crazy Regional Transport Officer from Quepem, Goa joined the Great Escape for the 15th time and conquered the beaten tracks on a 1985 model Mahindra. car
CAR India SEPTEMBER 2009
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Paint the town red Team MRF takes a sensational 1-2-3 win in the second round of the INRC Arjun Balu and co-driver Sujith Kumar of Team MRF clocked a timing of 1:31:49 to win the K-1000 rally, the second round of the Speed Indian National Rally Championship. The event which took place from the 21st to the 23rd of August, 2009, in Bangalore was Arjun’s maiden K-1000 rally victory. It was a triple delight at the MRF camp as Gaurav Gill (co-driver Moosa Sherif) and Arjun Rao Aroor (co-driver Satish Kumar) were also on the podium in the second and third place respectively. Gaurav driving a
Mitsubishi Cedia was the fastest of the day. Arjun Balu had virtually won after successfully completing the 12 stages of the rally by day one and only had a 2.5km super special stage between him and victory. With electrical troubles creeping in, his car threatened his victory and Balu had to hold onto his nerves for the short but demanding course. Eventually he put in a spectacular performance and made certain that the victory was his. Gauvav Gill, who could only manage second, was all praise for his teammate.
Xxory at Acropolis Rally (left top) as Loeb’s Citroen crashed badly to exit the rally with no points (left bottom)
Crocker closes in on the title Taguchi fails to make improvement Australian Cody Crocker cruised to a well deserved victory in Malaysia during the fifth round of the APRC. Crocker and co-driver Ben Atkinson completed the rally stages in 3hr 16min 22sec. Crocker’s MotorImage teammate Emma Gilmour secured her best ever result in international rallying, finishing runner-up. For Crocker’s championship rival, Katsu Taguchi it was a rally to forget as the Jap could not better his 36 championship point tally after failing to finish on both day one and two. Torrential rain made the rally’s opening leg extremely slippery and Taguchi crashed his Mitsubishi Evo into retirement on the day’s seventh stage.
Gaurav Gill, Taguchi’s teammate, was also forced into retirement when the Indian fell prey to a double puncture and later a mechanical failure. On day two, Taguchi’s misfortunes continued to daunt him but Gill put up a great show, clocking the fastest times in the four special stages. Crocker only needs an additional five points from the remaining two events in Indonesia and China in order to secure a fourth straight APRC title and also become the first driver to achieve that feat. The APRC circus travels to Indonesia for its next stop. Many reckon that Gill, who won the Indonesian Rally in 2008, could be the man to beat. CAR India September 2009
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sports INDIAN
Comeback Heroes
The podium gets a refreshing change of faces Gaurav Dalal made a dashing comeback in the FRC category after the fourth round of the JK Tyre National Racing Championship, which was held on the 2nd of August at MMST racetrack, Chennai. With both Ashwin Sunder and Akhil Khushlani not taking part in the FRC races due to international commitments, the reigning FRC champion hogged the
limelight again after a spell away from the podium. Gaurav led the race from flag to flag to take a convincing victory in both race one and two. Karthik Shankar, who replaced Ashwin at NK Racing, clinched the second place in both races. Saran Vikram and Amitrajit Ghosh took the third spot in race one and two respectively. In race one of the Formula LGB Swift
category, Sudarshana Roa continued his winning spree taking his championship lead further. Race two saw Ajay Kini demonstrate some amazing racing skills before finally taking the chequered flag - his first victory of the season. In the Formula LGB Hyundai Enduro race it was delight at Team Rams Racing as Akhil Devraj scored his maiden win.
FINE TALENT... ...at the JK Tyre INRMC round three Kolhapur’s Mohite racetrack played host to the third round of the JK Tyre Indian National Rotax Max Karting championship. In the Micro Max category, Dhruv S. Mohite from Mohite Racing Academy, finished first with an overall timing of 16:12:438. His teammate Krishnaraj Mahadik managed to grab the second position while Surya Raghuraman secured the third place. The race was the most eventful of the 108
day when on lap seven, third placed Tarun Reddy’s aggressive overtaking move on Kush Maini resulted in contact and Tarun was thrown off the track. However, Tarun kept his momentum going, surprising the crowd with a fourth place finish. In the Junior Max class, home boy Parth Ghorpade of Amaron Pro Racing with MECO dominated the race and finished first. His teammate Nikhil Kashyap closely
followed him in second and Raj Bharath from Bangalore completed the podium positions. In the Senior category, round two winner, Vishnu Prasad proved his mettle yet again finishing first with an overall timing of 23:16:105. Ameya Walavalkar from Mumbai finished second and Samyak Shah, also from Mumbai, grabbed the third place. However, Samyak’s lap timing of 54.996 seconds stood unbeaten throughout the day.
CAR India September 2009
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sports F1
B
rawn GP driver Rubens Barrichello registered his first victory since 2004 at the European Grand Prix in Valencia. McLaren’s Lewis Hamilton was optimistic of victory at Valencia after qualifying on pole, when a pitstop mix-up robbed the young Brit of crucial time. Barichello, who started from third, capitalized on this opportunity and Lewis had to be content with second. Kimi Raikkonen finished third for Ferrari.
Championship leader Jenson Button had a bad start that pushed him as low as ninth from his fifth qualifying position, he eventually finished seventh. Redbull’s Sebastien Vettel retired early on in the race with a blown engine, the German has now used seven of the eight engines available as per the ‘09 regulations. Mallya’s dreams of maiden F1 points still didn’t see the light of day in Valencia, however, the team put up another consistent performance, finishing as high as 12th.
1 2
long time no see
Barichello gets back to winning ways, Brazilian now hopeful of title Report: Marzban Jasoomani Photography: DPPI 4
1. Hamilton falls prey to the McLaren pit-stop jumble. Loses precious seconds and has to be (dis)satisfied with second place
3
2. Short and sweet - enough said 3. It takes twelve red heads to service the Iceman! 4. Sutil and Fisi put in a clean drive, still miss points
CAR India September 2009
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sports WRC Rally FINland Mikko Hirvonen continued his walk past Sebastian Loeb in the championship table as he secured his third consecutive victory in the season. Hirvonen dominated the Finland Rally, which happens to be his home rally, driving his Ford Focus RS to claim the tenth victory of his career in WRC. The homeboy took the lead right from the second stage of the round and finished 25.1 seconds ahead of title rival and title defender Sebastian Loeb. The reigning champion, Loeb gave a tough fight to Hirvonen initially. However, during the SS15, Loeb’s Citroen’s one wheel went through a deep pothole causing the tyre to come off the rim. Loeb lost almost 13 seconds in the mishap and then there was no comeback for the Frenchman. However, Loeb was quite happy with his second place considering the bad results he had scored in the last three rounds of the season. He now stands second in the championship table with a total of 65 points, three less than the standings’ leader.
The podium was finished off by Hirvonen’s teammate Jari-Matti Latvala. However, the podium finish was not quite easy for Latvala. He was driving under immense pressure from his last round’s last stage disaster. Plus, he had to fight Dani Sordo who was probably at his best at the Rally Finland. After overtaking Sordo on Saturday, Latvala had a tough drive all the way to the finish line in an attempt to maintain his position. Dani Sordo finished fourth, 16.2sec behind Latvala, and stands third in the championship table. Without pushing his car beyond the limits, Sordo made sure that he finished in fourth and claimed as many points as he could for Citroen in the manufacturers’ race for the title. Position Driver
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
M. HIRVONEN S. LOEB D. SORDO J. Latvala H. SOLBERG P. SOLBERG M.WILSON S.Ogier F.VILLAGRA C.Rautenbach
Points
68 65 44 31 27 25 20 16 14 08
Top: Loeb made a comeback to the podium with a second place finish Middle: Ahola managed to flip his Mitsubishi Lancer Left: Kimi Raikonen made a visit to the WRC in a FIAT Grande Punto S2000
Hirvonen scores a hat trick The Ford driver increases his lead over the defending champion to three points as he wins his home rally of Finland Report: Adhish Alawani Photography: DPPI
110
CAR India September 2009
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Automart Sept09.indd 111
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Automart Sept09.indd 112
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Automart Sept09.indd 114
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THE GOOD THE BAD & THE UGLY
the L good the bad & the ugly
ooking for a new set of wheels? Don’t know which one suits your requirements best? CAR India brings you the most comprehensive car buyers’ guide in the country. We have colourcoded various categories of cars and rated individual vehicles based on their relative performance in that segment. Apart from all the essential data, we have also provided an overall rating and summary of every model along with a list of other cars worth considering in that segment. For those who’ve been collecting CAR India issues, refer to our newly incorporated ‘tested’ column to find the road test of a car in one of the previous issues. For tips, questions, suggestions and advice write to us at carindia@nextgenpublishing.net
INDIA’S PUNCHIEST CAR BUYING GUIDE
How it all works All the segments colour code Small Hatchbacks Big Hatchbacks Mid-size Sedans Executive Sedans Luxury Sedans Super Luxury Sedans MUVs/MPVs SUVs Premium SUV’s Sports Cars Green Cars 116
INDEX Page No. 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124 126 127 131 132 133 134 137 138
MANUFACTURER AUDI BENTLEY, Bmw FIAT FORCE MOTORS, FORD gm HINDUSTAN MOTORS HONDA HYUNDAI ICML, LAMBORGHINI, MAHINDRA MAHINDRA RENAULT, MAINI MOTORS, MARUTI SUZUKI MERCEDES-BENZ NISSAN, PORSCHE ROLLS-ROYCE, Skoda TATA MOTORS TOYOTA VOLKSWAGEN, volvo
CAR India september 2009
GBU_Sept09.indd 116
8/25/09 2:41:41 PM
THE GOOD THE BAD & THE UGLY
the L good the bad & the ugly
ooking for a new set of wheels? Don’t know which one suits your requirements best? CAR India brings you the most comprehensive car buyers’ guide in the country. We have colourcoded various categories of cars and rated individual vehicles based on their relative performance in that segment. Apart from all the essential data, we have also provided an overall rating and summary of every model along with a list of other cars worth considering in that segment. For those who’ve been collecting CAR India issues, refer to our newly incorporated ‘tested’ column to find the road test of a car in one of the previous issues. For tips, questions, suggestions and advice write to us at carindia@nextgenpublishing.net
INDIA’S PUNCHIEST CAR BUYING GUIDE
How it all works All the segments colour code Small Hatchbacks Big Hatchbacks Mid-size Sedans Executive Sedans Luxury Sedans Super Luxury Sedans MUVs/MPVs SUVs Premium SUV’s Sports Cars Green Cars 116
INDEX Page No. 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124 126 127 131 132 133 134 137 138
MANUFACTURER AUDI BENTLEY, Bmw FIAT FORCE MOTORS, FORD gm HINDUSTAN MOTORS HONDA HYUNDAI ICML, LAMBORGHINI, MAHINDRA MAHINDRA RENAULT, MAINI MOTORS, MARUTI SUZUKI MERCEDES-BENZ NISSAN, PORSCHE ROLLS-ROYCE, Skoda TATA MOTORS TOYOTA VOLKSWAGEN, volvo
CAR India september 2009
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AIR BAGS
STEREO
ALLOY WHEELS
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Aug 08 Sep 08 NA NA
11111 11111 11111 11111
11.77 ✓ NA ✓ NA ✓
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Nov 07 NA NA
11111 11111 11111
DATE TESTED
OVERALL RATING
POWER WINDOWS
AVERAGE FUEL ECONOMY (IN KMPL)
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
✓ 7.7 250 8.75 ✓ ✓ 10.32 207.4 13.25 ✓ ✓ NA NA NA ✓ ✓ NA NA NA ✓
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM
TRACTION CONTROL
TYRE SIZE
BOOT SPACE (IN LITRES)
FULE TANK CAPACITY (IN LITERS)
KERB WEIGHT OF THE VEHICLE IN KG
MAX POWER (IN PS)
MAX TORQUE (IN Nm)
NO. OF GEARS
CUBIC CAPACITY IN CC/CYLINDERS
MODEL NAME
PRICE (IN LAKH RUPEES)
AUDI
AUDI A4
For: Audi technology. Against: Pricing. Verdict: Better than the 3-Series or C-Class. Alternatives: 1. Mercedes-Benz C-class 2. BMW 3-Series 3.2 FSI 2.0 TDI 2.0 FSI 3.0 TDI
44.59 33.79 33.79 45.78
3197/6 1968/4 1984/4 2967/6
6A 6A 6A 6A
330 320 280 450
265 143 211 240
1610 1520 1630 1790
64 64 64 64
480 480 480 480
245/40 R18 225/50 R17 225/50 R17 225/50 R17
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
A6 For: Roomy, striking and rapid. Against: Lacks driver engagement. Verdict: Good enough to worry Merc and BMW. Alternatives: 1. Mercedes-Benz E-class 2. BMW 5-Series 3. Volvo S80 3.0 TDI Quattro 2.8 FSI 2.7 TDI
50.84 44.15 45.80
2967/6 2800/6 2698/6
6A 6A 6A
450 236 280 162 380 177
1765 1615 1685
70 70 70
NA NA NA
225/50 R17 225/50 R17 225/50 R17
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓
7.74 NA NA
250 NA NA
90 500 255/40 R19 90 500 255/45 R18 90 500 235/55 R17
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓
9.7 230.1 5.2 249.4 7.8 241.4
6.1 7.2 11.8
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA NA NA
11111 11111 11111
✓ ✓
7.51 NA
225 NA
13.49 ✓ NA ✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
June 09 NA
11111 11111
NA 9.15 NA
NA 216 NA
NA 9.5 NA
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA Sep 09 NA
11112 11112 11112
NA
NA
✓
✓
✓ ✓
NA
11111
A8 For: Clever tech. Alloy build. Against: Pricing. Verdict: Deserves to succeed. Alternatives: 1. Mercedes-Benz S-class 2. BMW 7-Series 4.2 FSI 6.0 W12 3.0 TDI
102.32 154.91 89.30
4172/8 6A 5998/12 6A 2967/6 6A
440 355 580 450 450 233
1800 1995 1830
Q5 For: Performance, diesel engine. Against: Ride, gearbox Verdict: Scaled down Q7 makes sense. Alternatives: 1. BMW X3 2. Mitsubishi Montero 3.0 TDI 2.0 TSI
55.00 48.00
2967/6 3600/6
6A 6A
500 243 350 155
1865 75 540 235/65 R17 2252 100 775 275/45 R20
✓ ✓
Q7 For: Size. Performance. Against: Pricing. Verdict: If size matters, then the Q7 has to be the choice. Alternatives: 1. Volkswagen Toureg 2. BMW X5 3. Mercedes-Benz ML-class 4.2 FSI 3.0 TDI 3.6 FSI
87.00 64.77 69.38
4163/8 2967/6 3600/6
6A 6A 6A
440 355 550 243 NA NA
2270 100 775 275/45 R20 2325 100 775 275/45 R20 2252 100 775 275/45 R20
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓
R8 For: Performance, Design, usability. Against: Pricing. Verdict: An incredibly well-rounded performance car. Alternatives: 1. Mercedes SLK 55 AMG 2. Porsche Cayman 4.2 FSI
117.00
4163/8
6A
430 420
3605
75 480 235/35 R18
✓
✓
NA
*Conditions apply
Happiness comes on wheels this festive season
For details contact autoloans@tatacapital.com or SMS AUTO to 56070
We only do what’s right for you
CAR India SEPTEMBER 2009
GBU_Sept09.indd 117
117
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✓
✓ ✓
NA
11111
5.9
5.1
✓
✓
✓ ✓
NA
11111
5.7
✓
✓
✓ ✓
NA
11111
5.7 NA
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA NA
11111 11111
DATE TESTED
OVERALL RATING
AIR BAGS
✓
ALLOY WHEELS
POWER WINDOWS
9.6
STEREO
AVERAGE FUEL ECONOMY (IN KMPL)
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)
6.1 249.4
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM
TRACTION CONTROL
TYRE SIZE
BOOT SPACE (IN LITRES)
FULE TANK CAPACITY (IN LITERS)
KERB WEIGHT OF THE VEHICLE IN KG
MAX POWER (IN PS)
MAX TORQUE (IN Nm)
NO. OF GEARS
CUBIC CAPACITY IN CC/CYLINDERS
MODEL NAME
PRICE (IN LAKH RUPEES)
THE GOOD THE BAD & THE UGLY
TT For: Performance. Sharp looks. Against: Pricing. Verdict: Stylish, exclusive and fast enough for India. Alternatives: 1. Porsche Cayman 2. BMW M3 3.2 V6
55.00
BENTLEY
3189/6
6
320 255
1430
75
NA
245/40 R18
✓
✓
ARNAGE R
For: As British as the Ark Royal. Against: Nearly as big. Service backup. Verdict: Still rules da ‘hood. Alternatives: 1. Bentley Continental Flying Spur 2. Rolls Royce Phantom 3. Mercedes-Benz SL500 ARNAGE R 4d
275.00
6761/8
4A
835 406
2585 100 375 255/50 R18
✓
✓
250
CONTINENTAL GT For: A Bentley with Le Mans heritage. Against: Price. Service backup. Verdict: Makes the rest of the range look pre-historic. Alternatives: 1. Mercedes-Benz SL500 2. Porsche 911 Carrera 6.0 W12 2d AUTO
195.00
5998/12 6A
650 560
2410
90 370 275/40 R19
✓
4.8
✓
318
FLYING SPUR For: Fast and agile for a 2.5 ton car. Against: Price. Service backup. Verdict: Quickest saloon around. Alternatives: 1. Rolls-Royce Phantom 2. Mercedes-Benz S500 3. Bentley Arnage 6.0 W12 2d AUTO 2009 Flying Spur
BMW
200.00 NA
5998/12 6A 5998/12 NA
650 560 750 610
2300 2475
90 370 275/40 R19 90 NA NA
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
5.1 313.1 4.80 322
3 SERIES For: Assured mix of practicality. Driving pleasure. Against: Less personality for the price. Service backup. Verdict: Engaging and practical. Alternatives: 1. Mercedes-Benz C-class 2. Audi A4 320i 325i 320d Highline
31.61 38.46 35.72
1995/4 2497/6 1995/4
6 6 6
200 156 246 214 340 174
1390 1460 1445
63 480 225/50 R16 63 480 225/45 R17 61 480 225/50 R16
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓
9.7 7.7 9.03
215 242 225
12.6 11.2 11.5
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA Sep 07 Apr 08
11112 11112 11111
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
6.3 8.65 NA 7.52 7.52
248 248 NA 248 248
12.4 8.25 NA 11.125 11.125
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Nov 07 Jan 08 NA Jan 09 Jan 09
11111 11111 11111 11111 11111
NA 5.38
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA May 09
11111 11111
5 SERIES For: Still one of the best. Against: Price. Service backup. Verdict: Buy it only if you love to drive. Alternatives: 1. Audi A6 2. Mercedes-Benz E-class 3. Volvo S80 525i 530i 520d 530d 530d Highline
46.68 52.73 42.11 49.31 53.42
2497/6 2996/6 1995/4 2993/6 2993/6
6A 6A 6A 6A 6A
246 300 350 500 500
215 258 177 235 235
1530 1540 1520 1600 1600
70 70 70 70 70
520 520 520 520 520
225/50 R17 245/40 R18 225/50 R17 225/50 R17 245/40 R18
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
6 SERIES For: Seductive without the top, substantial, with it Against: Price. Service backup. Verdict: Makes an unmatched style statement. Alternatives: 1. Porsche Boxter 2. Mercedes-Benz SLK-class 650i Coupe 650i Convertible
118
95.94 105.65
4799/8 4799/8
6 6
490 367 490 367
1725 1935
70 450 245/45 R18 70 350 245/45 R18
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
NA 6.79
NA 248
CAR India SEPTEMBER 2009
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OVERALL RATING
DATE TESTED
ALLOY WHEELS
STEREO
AIR BAGS
POWER WINDOWS
AVERAGE FUEL ECONOMY (IN KMPL)
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM
TRACTION CONTROL
TYRE SIZE
BOOT SPACE (IN LITRES)
FULE TANK CAPACITY (IN LITERS)
KERB WEIGHT OF THE VEHICLE IN KG
MAX POWER (IN PS)
MAX TORQUE (IN Nm)
NO. OF GEARS
CUBIC CAPACITY IN CC/CYLINDERS
MODEL NAME
PRICE (IN LAKH RUPEES)
AUDI TO FIAT
7 SERIES For: Loaded with cutting-edge technology. Against: Price. Service backup. Verdict: More stylish and more capable than its predecessor Alternatives: 1. Mercedes-Benz S-class 2. Audi A8 740Li 750Li 760Li
99.50 115.23 154.82
4000/8 6A 4395/8 6A 5972/12 6A
390 225 600 410 600 327
1935 1980 2180
88 500 245/50 R18 88 500 245/45 R19 88 500 245/45 R19
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓
NA 6.6 NA
NA 250 NA
NA 6.2 NA
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA Mar 09 NA
11111 11111 11111
X3 For: Image. Sharp handling. Against: Ride. Versatility. Price. Service backup Verdict: Not as fast as it should be. Alternatives: 1. Mitsubishi Montero 2. Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 3. Volvo XC90 xDrive 2.5i 51.26 2497/6 6A 246 215 1805 67 480 235/55 R17 ✓ ✓ 10.62 210 xDrive 2.0d
49.56
1995/4
6A
350 180
1825
67 480 235/55 R17
✓
✓
NA
NA
7.6 NA
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Feb 08 NA
11111 NA
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
9.08 NA
201 NA
8.72 NA
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
May 08 NA
11111 NA
X5 For: Wieldy. Handsome. Brisk. Against: No seven seat option. Verdict: We love it. Alternatives: 1. Mercedes-Benz M-class 2. Porsche Cayenne 3. Audi Q7 xDrive 3.0d 75.75 2993/6 6A 520 235 2150 85 620 255/55 R18 xDrive 4.8i
94.81
4799/8
6A
475 350
2425
85 620 255/55 R18
X6 For: Looks, performance, exhaust note Against: Seats just four! Verdict: Radical, but works well as an attention magnet! Alternatives: 1. Mercedes-Benz M-class 2. Porsche Cayenne 3. Audi Q7 xDrive50i 82.00 4395/8 6A 600 408 2190 85 570 315/35 R20 xDrive30d
65.00
2993/6
6A
520 235
2075
85 570 315/35 R20
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
6.6 NA
250 NA
4.5 NA
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
July 09 NA
11111 NA
248
7.5
✓
✓
✓ ✓
NA
11111
6.7
✓
✓
✓ ✓
NA
11111
NA NA NA NA 18.9
F ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ -
- - ✓ ✓ ✓ - -
NA NA NA NA Aug 09
NA NA NA NA 11112
M3 For: Breathtaking performance. Against: Price. Service backup. Verdict: A legendary performance saloon. Alternatives: 1. Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG M3Coupe
89.34
3999/8
6
400 420
1655
63 430 255/40 R18
✓
✓
5
M5 For: Can beat an M3. Against: Price. Service backup. Verdict: Everything a sports car can be with four doors. Alternatives: 1. Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG 4d SMG
FIAT
116.45
4999/10 7A
520 514
1855
70 500 225/40 R19
✓
✓
4.7
250
GRANDE PUNTO For: Looks, value for money Against: Rear seat, fit and finish. Verdict: The car that will turn tables for FIAT in India Alternatives: 1. Maruti Ritz 2. TATA Indica 3. Hyundai i10 1.2 Active (ex-Pune) 1.4 Dynamic (ex-Pune) 1.4 Emotion (ex-Pune) 1.4 E. Pack (ex-Pune) 1.3 Active (ex-Pune)
4.01 4.68 5.08 5.63 4.87
1172/4 1368/4 1368/4 1368/4 1248/4
5 5 5 5 5
96 115 115 115 197
68 90 90 90 76
1140 1145 1145 1145 1190
45 45 45 45 45
275 275 275 275 275
165/80 R14 165/80 R14 175/70 R14 195/60 R15 165/80 R13
-
✓ ✓ -
NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 17.5 154.5
CAR India SEPTEMBER 2009
GBU_Sept09.indd 119
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- ✓ ✓ ✓
OVERALL RATING
✓
DATE TESTED
✓ ✓ ✓
ALLOY WHEELS
18.9 18.9 18.9
STEREO
AIR BAGS
17.5 154.5 17.5 154.5 17.5 154.5
POWER WINDOWS
✓ ✓
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)
-
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
TYRE SIZE
FULE TANK CAPACITY (IN LITERS) BOOT SPACE (IN LITRES)
45 275 165/80 R14 45 275 175/70 R14 45 275 195/60 R15
AVERAGE FUEL ECONOMY (IN KMPL)
1190 1190 1190
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM
76 76 76
KERB WEIGHT OF THE VEHICLE IN KG
197 197 197
MAX POWER (IN PS)
5 5 5
TRACTION CONTROL
1248/4 1248/4 1248/4
MAX TORQUE (IN Nm)
5.18 5.58 6.13
NO. OF GEARS
1.3 Dynamic (ex-Pune) 1.3 Emotion (ex-Pune) 1.3 E. Pack (ex-Pune)
CUBIC CAPACITY IN CC/CYLINDERS
MODEL NAME
PRICE (IN LAKH RUPEES)
THE GOOD THE BAD & THE UGLY
Aug 09 Aug 09 Aug 09
11112 11112 11112
Mar 09 Mar 09 Mar 09 Mar 09 Mar 09 Jan 09 Jan 09 Jan 09 Jan 09 Jan 09
11112 11112 11112 11112 11112 11112 11112 11112 11112 11112
LINEA For: Looks and equipment Against: Engine feels breathless at high rpm, rear space Verdict: Elegant and practical at the same time Alternatives: 1. Chevrolet Optra Magnum 2. Ford Fiesta 3. Honda City Active Petrol Dynamic Petrol Dynamic PK Petol Emotion Petrol Emotion PK Petrol Active Diesel Dynamic Diesel Dynamic PK Diesel Emotion Diesel Emotion PK Diesel
6.78 7.03 7.33 7.57 7.95 7.71 8.04 8.35 8.46 9.05
1368/4 1368/4 1368/4 1368/4 1368/4 1248/4 1248/4 1248/4 1248/4 1248/4
5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
121 121 121 121 121 214 214 214 214 214
94.2 94.2 94.2 94.2 94.2 90.5 90.5 90.5 90.5 90.5
1240 1240 1240 1240 1240 1291 1291 1291 1291 1291
45 45 45 45 45 45 45 45 45 45
500 500 500 500 500 500 500 500 500 500
195/60 R15 195/60 R15 195/60 R15 195/60 R15 195/60 R15 195/60 R15 195/60 R15 195/60 R15 195/60 R15 195/60 R15
-
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
13.9 13.9 13.9 13.9 13.9 11.79 11.79 11.79 11.79 11.79
158.9 158.9 158.9 158.9 158.9 168 168 168 168 168
12.37 12.37 12.37 12.37 12.37 16.37 16.37 16.37 16.37 16.37
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
-
✓
NA
NA
NA
✓
✓
✓ ✓
500 For: Size, technology, image. Against: Price. Verdict: The most stylish city runabout Alternatives: NONE 500 Lounge
17.67
1248/4
5
FORCE MOTORS
145
76
NA
NA 185 185/55 R15
NA
111
GURKHA
For: Hardcore mud-plugger. Amazing performance. Go-anywhere capability Against: Lack of creature comforts. Ergonomics. Edgy panels. Verdict: The ultimate off-road machine made in India. Nothing comes close Alternatives: 1. Mahindra Bolero 2. Maruti Gypsy King 2.6Euro III
FORD
5.44
2600/4
5
200 81.58 1785
63
NA
NA
-
-
NA
NA
NA
-
-
-
-
NA
1111
NA 15.8
NA 161
NA 17.4
✓ ✓
-
-
-
NA Dec 08
1112 1111
14.1 14.1 14.1 14.1 17.1 17.1 17.1
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓
- - ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Jan 06 Jan 06 Jan 06 Jul 08 Nov 06 Nov 06 Nov 06
111 111 1112 1112 1111 1111 1111
IKON
For: Economical to own. Sturdy feel. Diesel option. Against: Petrol version heavy on fuel. Verdict: An engaging car with loads of steering feedback Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Accent 2. Mahindra-Renault Logan 3. Maruti Suzuki DZire 4. Tata Indigo 1.3 Rocam 1.4 TDCI
5.37 6.06
1297/4 1399/4
5 5
105 160
70 68
995 1006
45 400 175/70 R13 43 400 175/70 R13
-
-
FIESTA For: Refined diesel engine. Exciting petrol. Excellent interiors. Against: Stiff ride. Conservative styling Verdict: A great package in its new avatar. Alternatives: 1. Honda City 2. Hyundai Verna 3. Maruti Suzuki SX4 1.6 EXi 1.6 ZXi 1.6 SXi+ABS 1.6 Sports 1.4 EXi TDCi 1.4 ZXi TDCi 1.4 SXi TDCi+ABS
120
7.14 7.45 8.12 8.17 8.08 8.42 9.06
1596/4 1596/4 1596/4 1596/4 1399/4 1399/4 1399/4
5 5 5 5 5 5 5
146 146 146 146 160 160 160
101 101 101 101 68 68 68
1130 1130 1130 1130 1150 1150 1150
45 45 45 45 45 45 45
430 430 430 430 430 430 430
175/65 R14 175/65 R14 175/65 R14 175/65 R14 175/65 R14 175/65 R14 175/65 R14
-
✓ ✓ ✓
11.87 176.5 11.87 176.5 11.87 176.5 11.87 176.5 16.83 164.48 16.83 164.48 16.83 164.48
CAR India SEPTEMBER 2009
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OVERALL RATING
✓ ✓
DATE TESTED
AIR BAGS
✓ ✓
ALLOY WHEELS
POWER WINDOWS
NA NA
STEREO
AVERAGE FUEL ECONOMY (IN KMPL)
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM
TRACTION CONTROL
TYRE SIZE
BOOT SPACE (IN LITRES)
FULE TANK CAPACITY (IN LITERS)
KERB WEIGHT OF THE VEHICLE IN KG
MAX POWER (IN PS)
MAX TORQUE (IN Nm)
NO. OF GEARS
CUBIC CAPACITY IN CC/CYLINDERS
PRICE (IN LAKH RUPEES)
MODEL NAME
FIAT TO GENERAL MOTORS
ENDEAVOUR For: Mammoth presence. Tough build. Price. Against: Lacks performance. Poor ride quality. Low on space. Verdict: Good pose value and size at a decent price. No performance though. You’ll love it if you like trucks. Alternatives: 1. Chevrolet Captiva 2. Mitsubishi Pajero 2.5 4x2 3.0 Thunder+4x4
17.67 20.44
2499/4 2953/4
5 5
330 143 380 156
GENERAL MOTORS
1875 1995
71 71
NA NA
245/70 R16 245/70 R16
-
✓ ✓
NA NA
NA NA
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA NA
1112 1112
SPARK
For: Refined, efficient and frugal engine. Great cabin and ride. Against: Gearbox could have been better. Verdict: A great compact car with hardly any flaws. Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki Zen Estilo 2. Hyundai Santro 3. Tata Indica Xeta 1.0 1.0 PS 1.0 LS 1.0 LS Muzic 1.0 LT 1.0 LT OPT
3.19 3.33 3.52 3.77 3.86 4.20
995/4 995/4 995/4 995/4 995/4 995/4
5 5 5 5 5 5
90.3 90.3 90.3 90.3 90.3 90.3
63 63 63 63 63 63
1075 1095 1095 1095 1095 1095
38 38 38 38 38 38
NA NA NA NA NA NA
155/70 R13 155/70 R13 155/70 R13 155/70 R13 155/70 R13 155/70 R13
-
✓
16 16 16 16 16 16
152 152 152 152 152 152
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓
- - ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
May 07 May 07 May 07 May 07 May 07 May 07
11.4 11.4 11.4
✓
-
- - ✓ ✓
NA NA NA
1112 1112 1112
15.97 15.97 15.97 15.97 15.97 15.97
11112 11112 11112 11112 11112 11112
U-VA For: : Spacious cabin. Styling. Ride quality. Against: Fuel efficiency. Gear shift quality needs to be improved. Verdict: Good looking car with decent interior space for its size. Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Getz 2. Maruti Suzuki Swift 1.2 1.2 LS 1.2 LT
4.53 4.99 5.70
1150/4 1150/4 1150/4
5 5 5
110 110 110
76 76 76
1075 1095 1095
45 220 155/80 R13 45 220 155/80 R13 45 220 185/65 R14
-
-
15.80 151.5 15.80 151.5 15.80 151.5
AVEO For: Chunky looks. Contemporary interiors. Ride quality. Against: Gearbox. Bottom-end power. Handling. Verdict: Stylish, spacious offering for the price. Alternatives: 1. Ford Fiesta 2. Honda City 3. Maruti Suzuki SX4 1.4 1.4 LS 1.6 LT 1.6 LT OPT
6.83 7.29 7.93 8.49
1399/4 1399/4 1598/4 1598/4
5 5 5 5
127 92 127 92 147 104 147 104
1095 1095 1095 1095
45 45 45 45
400 400 400 400
185/60 R14 185/60 R14 185/60 R14 185/60 R14
-
✓
15.0 15.0 14.3 14.3
177 177 172 172
13.3 13.3 12.7 12.7
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA May 06 NA Nov 06
1112 1112 111 111
-
✓
12.8 12.8
176 176
11.8 11.8
✓ ✓
✓
✓ ✓ ✓
NA NA
1111 1111
-
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA NA NA Oct 05 NA
1111 1111 1111 1111 1111
SRV For: Looks. Sporty drive. Good suspension. Against: Fuel efficiency. Lack of boot space. Verdict: A flashy, sporty car for the young at heart. Alternatives: 1. Fiat Palio 1.6 -
1.6 1.6 OPT
8.01 8.60
1598/4 1598/4
5 5
140 101 140 101
1230 1230
60 275 185/65 R14 60 275 195/60 R15
OPTRA MAGNUM For: Elegant design. Nice interiors. Refinement. Space. Against: Driver appeal . Verdict: An all round solution for those who want to exhibit opulence on a budget. Alternatives: 1. FIAT Linea 2. Hyundai Elantra 3. Skoda Octavia 4. Ford Fiesta 1.6 MAX 1.6 LS 1.6 LT 1.6 LT OPT 2.0 MAX TCDi
8.97 9.34 10.41 10.78 10.07
1599/4 1599/4 1599/4 1599/4 1991/4
5 5 5 5 5
148 148 148 148 314
104 104 104 104 120.5
1265 1265 1265 1265 1370
60 60 60 60 60
405 405 405 405 405
185/65 R14 185/65 R14 185/65 R14 185/65 R14 195/60 R15
-
-
12.9 12.9 12.9 12.9 11.58
177 177 177 177 192.3
10.3 10.3 10.3 10.3 16.5
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
CAR India SEPTEMBER 2009
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121
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✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA NA Jul 07
14.5 14.5 14.5 14.5 14.5 14.5 14.5 14.5
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
-
- - - - - - - ✓ ✓
NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA
10.8 9.3
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Feb 08 Mar09
DATE TESTED
OVERALL RATING
✓ ✓ ✓
ALLOY WHEELS
16.5 16.5 16.5
- 11.58 192.3 - 11.58 192.3 ✓ 11.58 192.3
STEREO
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
AIR BAGS
-
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM
TRACTION CONTROL
TYRE SIZE
BOOT SPACE (IN LITRES)
FULE TANK CAPACITY (IN LITERS)
60 405 195/60 R15 60 405 195/60 R15 60 405 195/60 R15
POWER WINDOWS
314 120.5 1370 314 120.5 1370 314 120.5 1370
AVERAGE FUEL ECONOMY (IN KMPL)
5 5 5
KERB WEIGHT OF THE VEHICLE IN KG
1991/4 1991/4 1991/4
MAX POWER (IN PS)
CUBIC CAPACITY IN CC/CYLINDERS
10.58 11.73 11.98
MAX TORQUE (IN Nm)
PRICE (IN LAKH RUPEES)
2.0 LS TCDi 2.0 LT TCDi 2.0 LT OPT TCDi
NO. OF GEARS
MODEL NAME
THE GOOD THE BAD & THE UGLY
1111 1111 1111
TAVERA For: Efficiency. Price. Space. Against: Refinement. Ride quality. Interiors. Lacks performance. Verdict: A good MUV for tour operators as well as large families. Alternatives: 1. Mahinda Scorpio 2. Toyota Innova B1-7str NY Edition B2-10str NY Edition B2-7str NY Edition NEO-LS B3-10str NEO-LS B4-7str NEO-LS B4 Captain st NEO-LT -L-7str NEO-SS-D1-7str
7.13 8.08 8.21 8.70 8.74 8.86 9.81 11.10
2499/4 2499/4 2499/4 2499/4 2499/4 2499/4 2499/4 2499/4
5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
186 186 186 186 186 186 186 186
80 80 80 80 80 80 80 80
1585 1585 1585 1585 1640 1640 1660 1660
55 55 55 55 55 55 55 55
NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA
205/65 R15 205/65 R15 205/65 R15 205/65 R15 205/65 R15 205/65 R15 205/65 R15 205/65 R15
-
-
23 23 23 23 7.7 7.7 7.7 7.7
140.5 140.5 140.5 140.5 140.5 140.5 140.5 140.5
111 111 111 111 111 111 111 111
CAPTIVA For: Punchy, refined and efficient engine. Looks. Against: Gearbox, low rev response could be better. Verdict: A diesel alternative to the CR-V. Alternatives: 1. Ford Endaevour 2. Honda CR-V 3. Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0LT 2.0LT Automatic
22.85 24.87
1991/4 1991/4
5 5A
320 150 320 150
1820 1910
HINDUSTAN MOTORS
65 465 235/60 R17 65 465 235/60 R17
-
✓ ✓
12.6 180.1 13.6 179.5
1111 1111
AMBASSADOR
For: Space. Old-world charm. Against: Performance. Refinement. Efficiency. Ergonomics. Interiors. Verdict: Definitely not the car for this generation and age unless you belong to the babucracy. Alternatives: 1. Tata Indigo 2. Ford Ikon Flair 3. Mahindra Renault Logan Classic 1.8 Petrol Classic 2.0 Diesel Grand 1.8 Petrol Grand 2.0 Diesel
5.47 5.59 5.69 5.50
1817/4 1995/4 1817/4 1995/4
5 5 5 5
137.3 107.8 137.3 107.8
75 51.7 265 51.7
1104 1200 1104 1200
42 54 42 54
NA NA NA NA
165 R15 165 R15 165 R15 165 R15
-
-
17.3 124.8 NA NA 17.3 124.8 NA NA
10.1 NA 10.1 NA
✓ ✓
-
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
-
NA NA NA NA
11 11 11 11
MITSUBISHI LANCER For: Refinement. Rallying heritage. Modding possibilities. Reliability. Against: Outright performance. Disappointing interiors. Verdict: Though a good car going by its heritage, the competition has totally outclassed it. Alternatives: 1. Honda City 2. Chevrolet Optra 3. Maruti Suzuki SX4 4. Skoda Octavia 1.5 LXi 2.0 LXd (Diesel)
8.15 9.04
1468/4 1998/4
5 5
129 118
87 68
1010 1080
50 500 175/80 R13 50 500 175/80 R13
-
-
13.6 154.5 18.4 140
11.1 12.5
✓ ✓
-
✓ ✓
-
NA NA
1112 1112
12.8 NA 12.8 12.8
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA NA Mar 06 NA
1111 1111 1111 1111
MITSUBISHI CEDIA For: Refinement. Comfort. Space. Against: Wallowy ride. Performance. Handling. Verdict: A reasonably good car Alternatives: 1. Skoda Octavia Rider 2. Chevrolet Optra 3. Toyota Corolla Select Select LPG Spirit Sport
9.99 10.35 11.18 11.59
1999/4 1999/4 1999/4 1999/4
5 5 5 5
178 178 178 178
115 115 115 115
1210 1210 1210 1210
50 50 50 50
430 430 430 430
195/60 R15 195/60 R15 195/60 R15 195/60 R15
-
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
11.8 196.5 NA NA 11.8 196.5 11.8 196.5
*Conditions apply
Happiness comes on wheels this festive season
122
For details contact autoloans@tatacapital.com or SMS AUTO to 56070
We only do what’s right for you
CAR India SEPTEMBER 2009
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AIR BAGS
STEREO
✓
✓
✓ ✓
NA
8
✓
✓
✓ ✓
Dec 08
11111
9.62 NA
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Oct 07 NA
11112 11112
18.0 18.0 18.0
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓
-
July-09 July-09 July-09
11112 11112 11112
DATE TESTED
OVERALL RATING
POWER WINDOWS
8.9
ALLOY WHEELS
AVERAGE FUEL ECONOMY (IN KMPL)
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM
TRACTION CONTROL
TYRE SIZE
BOOT SPACE (IN LITRES)
FULE TANK CAPACITY (IN LITERS)
KERB WEIGHT OF THE VEHICLE IN KG
MAX POWER (IN PS)
MAX TORQUE (IN Nm)
NO. OF GEARS
CUBIC CAPACITY IN CC/CYLINDERS
PRICE (IN LAKH RUPEES)
MODEL NAME
GENERAL MOTORS TO HONDA
MITSUBISHI PAJERO For: Pedigree. Chassis. Reliability. Against: Interiors. Price. Verdict: A very competent off-roader Alternatives: 1. Honda CR-V 2. Nissan X-Trail 3. Ford Endeavour 4. Chevrolet Captiva 2.8 GLX
23.19
2835/4
5
292.3 120.2 2060
92
NA
235/75 R15
-
✓
17
153
1111
MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER For: Mordern looks, generous equipment levels. Against: Thirsty pet. Verdict: The first genuine scare to the CR-V Alternatives: 1. Honda CR-V 2. Nissan X-Trail 3. Ford Endeavour 4. Chevrolet Captiva 2.4 L
22.90
2360/4
6
226 170
2130
60
NA
235/75 R15
-
✓
11.8 186.1
MITSUBISHI MONTERO For: Off-road capability. Dakar Rally Champion. Against: Bland looks. Expensive. Verdict: A reliable, capable off-roader, if looks don’t matter Alternatives: 1. Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 2. BMW X3 MT AT
HONDA
41.10 46.10
3200/4 3200/4
5 5A
405 167 405 167
2195 2195
90 90
NA NA
265/65 R17 265/65 R17
✓ ✓
✓ 15.33 182.5 ✓ NA NA
-
✓ ✓ ✓
JAZZ
For: Interiors, engine. Against: Price, handling Verdict: A very versatile car for city use. Typical Honda and a pleasure to drive. Alternatives: 1. Hyundai i20 2. Skoda Fabia Jazz (ex-Pune) Jazz Mode (ex-Pune) Jazz Active (ex-Pune)
7.24 7.54 7.59
1198/4 1198/4 1198/4
5 5 5
110 110 110
90 90 90
1055 1055 1055
42 366 175/65 R15 42 366 175/65 R15 42 366 175/65 R15
13.5 13.5 13.5
165 165 165
CITY For: Punchy engine, class leading interiors, equipment levels Against: Lack of alloys, fog-lamps and CD player Verdict: A fabulous car that delivers unmatched performance and fuel-efficiency. Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki SX4 2. Chevrolet Optra 3. Fiat Linea 4. Ford Fiesta 1.5 E MT 9.11 1497/4 5 146 118 1100 42 560 175/65 R15 ✓ 10.7 189 17.7 ✓ ✓ - Dec 08 1.5 S MT 1.5 S AT
9.67 10.46
1497/4 1497/4
5 5A
146 118 146 118
1100 1155
42 560 175/65 R15 42 560 175/65 R15
-
✓ ✓
10.7 12.9
189 NA
17.7 15.9
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Dec 08 Dec 08
11112 11112 11112
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Sep 06 NA Aug 06 NA
11111 11111 11111 11111
CIVIC For: Refinement. Handling. Looks. Interiors Against: Low ground clearance. Verdict: Lives upto all your expectations and more. Alternatives: 1. Skoda Octavia 2. Toyota Corolla Altis 3. VW Jetta V MT Sport V AT CVT Hybrid
14.21 14.42 15.03 16.85
1799/4 1799/4 1799/4 1339/4
5 5 5A 5A
171 132 171 132 171 132 121 95
1210 1210 1210 1290
50 50 50 50
405 405 405 405
195/65 R15 195/65 R15 195/65 R15 195/65 R15
-
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
9.21 206.8 9.21 206.8 11.7 192.3 NA NA
14.9 14.9 13.5 NA
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
CAR India SEPTEMBER 2009
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OVERALL RATING
DATE TESTED
ALLOY WHEELS
STEREO
AIR BAGS
POWER WINDOWS
AVERAGE FUEL ECONOMY (IN KMPL)
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM
TRACTION CONTROL
TYRE SIZE
BOOT SPACE (IN LITRES)
FULE TANK CAPACITY (IN LITERS)
KERB WEIGHT OF THE VEHICLE IN KG
MAX POWER (IN PS)
MAX TORQUE (IN Nm)
NO. OF GEARS
CUBIC CAPACITY IN CC/CYLINDERS
MODEL NAME
PRICE (IN LAKH RUPEES)
THE GOOD THE BAD & THE UGLY
ACCORD For: Performance. Equipment. Interiors. Refinement. Style. Honda reliability. Against: Nothing much. Verdict: Best car in its segment. Alternatives: 1. Skoda Laura 2. Toyota Camry 3. Nissan Teana ELEGANCE MT INSPIRE MT ELEGANCE AT INSPIRE AT ELEGANCE AT V6 INSPIRE AT V6
20.27 20.92 21.11 21.77 27.97 28.11
2354/4 2354/4 2354/4 2354/4 3471/6 3471/6
5 5 5A 5A 5A 5A
196 196 196 196 339 339
144 144 144 144 275 275
1450 1450 1540 1540 1620 1620
65 65 65 65 70 70
420 420 420 420 420 420
215/60 R16 215/60 R16 215/60 R16 255/60 R16 225/50 R17 225/50 R17
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA NA 11.93 11.93 9.48 9.48
NA NA 204 204 203 203
NA NA 11.55 11.55 9.2 9.2
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA NA NA Jun 08 NA May 09
11112 11112 11112 11112 NA 11112
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Mar 08 Jan 07 Feb 07
11112 11112 11112
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
CR-V For: Car-like driving experience. Comfort. Against: Price. Verdict: A great SUV just got better. Alternatives: 1. Chevrolet Captiva 2. Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara 3. Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0 MT 2.4 MT 2.4 AT
26.65 28.50 29.38
HYUNDAI
1997/4 2354/4 2354/4
5 5 5A
190 143 218 161 218 161
1465 1565 1565
58 556 225/65 R17 58 556 225/65 R17 58 556 225/65 R17
-
✓ 11.03 187 12.25 ✓ ✓ 10.79 188.7 9.65 ✓ ✓ 11.30 191.3 8.8 ✓
✓ ✓ ✓
SANTRO XING eRLX For: : Refined. Comfortable. Efficient. Compact dimensions. Auto box option. Against: Performance. Verdict: A very competitive small hatch. One of the better deals around. Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki Zen Estilo 2. Tata Indica Xeta 3. Chevrolet Spark GL GL(AC) GLS(M) Automatic
2.95 3.54 3.92 4.15
1086/4 1086/4 1086/4 1086/4
5 5 5 4A
89 89 89 89
63 63 63 63
778 778 778 815
35 35 35 35
218 218 218 218
155/70 R13 155/70 R13 155/70 R13 155/70 R13
-
-
16.4 16.4 16.4 19.3
142.2 142.2 142.2 140.3
19.9 19.9 19.9 14.7
✓ ✓
-
-
-
NA NA Feb 07 NA
1112 1112 1112 1112
i10 For: Great looks. Interiors. Gear shift. Ride quality. Against: Fuel economy Verdict: Easily the best Indian supermini, if a little expensive. Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki A-star 2. Chevrolet U-VA D-lite Era
3.74 4.11
1086/4 1086/4
5 5
99 99
66.7 66.7
860 860
35 225 155/80 R13 35 225 155/70 R13
-
-
15.52 156.2 15.52 156.2
14.8 14.8
✓
-
-
-
NA Dec 07
11112 11112
1197/4 1197/4 1197/4 1197/4 1197/4 1197/4 1197/4
5 4A 5 4A 5 5 4A
112 112 112 112 112 112 112
80 80 80 80 80 80 80
NA NA NA NA NA NA NA
35 35 35 35 35 35 35
-
✓ ✓ ✓
14.02 NA 14.02 NA 14.02 14.02 NA
15.12 NA 15.12 NA 15.12 15.12 NA
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓
- - ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA NA NA NA NA Sep 08 NA
11112 11112 11112 11112 11112 11112 11112
i10 1.2 KAPPA Magna Magna AT Sportz Sportz AT Asta Asta sunroof Asta AT sunroof
124
4.47 4.96 4.76 5.22 5.40 5.56 6.03
225 225 225 225 225 225 225
155/80 R13 155/80 R13 155/80 R13 155/80 R13 155/80 R13 155/80 R13 155/80 R13
156 NA 156 NA 156 156 NA
CAR India SEPTEMBER 2009
GBU_Sept09.indd 124
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POWER WINDOWS
AIR BAGS
STEREO
ALLOY WHEELS
12 12 12 19.1 NA
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA NA Feb 09 Aug 09 NA
11112 11112 11112 11112 NA
17 138 13.1 17 138 13.1 14.3 166.2 14.6 14.3 166.2 14.6 11.6 174.8 12.75
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
-
- - - ✓ ✓ - -
NA May 07 Mar 07 Mar 07 Nov 07
1111 1111 1111 1111 1111
NA
1112
NA NA NA Nov 06 NA NA NA NA
1111 1111 1111 1111 1111 1111 1111 1111
NA NA NA
1112 1112 1111
DATE TESTED
OVERALL RATING
AVERAGE FUEL ECONOMY (IN KMPL)
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM
-
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
TRACTION CONTROL
TYRE SIZE
BOOT SPACE (IN LITRES)
FULE TANK CAPACITY (IN LITERS)
KERB WEIGHT OF THE VEHICLE IN KG
MAX POWER (IN PS)
MAX TORQUE (IN Nm)
NO. OF GEARS
CUBIC CAPACITY IN CC/CYLINDERS
PRICE (IN LAKH RUPEES)
MODEL NAME
HONDA TO HYUNDAI
i20 For: Interiors, ride quality, looks. Against: Underpowered engine Verdict: India’s new supermini Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki Swift 2. Skoda Fabia Magna Asta Asta (O) 1.4 CRDi Asta 1.4 Gamma Asta
5.46 6.36 6.61 7.74 8.28
1197/4 1197/4 1197/4 1396/4 1396/4
5 5 5 5 4A
112 80 112 80 112 80 220 90 136 100
NA NA NA NA NA
45 370 175/70 R14 45 370 185/65 R14 45 370 185/65 R14 45 NA 185/65 R14 45 NA 185/65 R14
15.13 152.5 15.13 152.5 15.13 152.5 13.88 NA NA NA
GETZ PRIME For: Space. Ride comfort. Against: Fuel efficiency. Price. Verdict: One of those big hatches that created quite a wave, now marginalised by the competition. Alternatives: 1. Chevrolet U-VA 2. . Maruti Suzuki Swift 3. Tata Indica GLE 1.1 GVS 1.1 GLS 1.3 GLX 1.3 GVS 1.5 CRDi
4.32 4.75 5.12 5.49 6.17
1086/4 1086/4 1341/4 1341/4 1493/4
5 5 5 5 5
102 66.6 102 66.6 116 83 116 83 235 110
995 995 1095 1095 1137
45 45 45 45 45
294 294 294 294 294
155/80 R13 155/80 R13 175/80 R13 175/70 R13 185/65 R14
-
✓ -
ACCENT For: Efficient. Comfortable. Right price. Against: Dated looks, poor handling. Verdict: A practical family saloon that makes a lot of sense. Alternatives: 1. Chevrolet Aveo 2. Ford Ikon 3. Maruti Suzuki DZire 4. Tata Indigo GLE
5.51
1495/4
5
123
94
1023
45 328 175/70 R13
-
-
13.8
175
13.3
✓
-
-
-
✓ -
12.66 12.66 12.66 12.66 11.57 11.57 11.57 11.57
176.3 176.3 176.3 176.3 188.2 188.2 188.2 188.2
11.9 11.9 11.9 11.9 18.35 18.35 18.35 18.35
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
-
- - ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ - - ✓ ✓ -
VERNA For: Stonking diesel, refined petrol. Against: Diesel engine not refined, petrol no too efficient. Verdict: An average car. Alternatives: 1. Maruti DZire 2. Chevrolet Aveo 3. Ford Fiesta 1.6 i 1.6 Xi 1.6 XXi 1.6 XXi ABS 1.5 CRDi 1.5 CRDi ABS 1.5 CRDi SX 1.5 CRDi SX ABS
7.27 7.57 7.95 8.12 8.38 8.58 8.88 9.08
1599/4 1599/4 1599/4 1599/4 1493/4 1493/4 1493/4 1493/4
5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
146 146 146 146 236 236 236 236
103 103 103 103 110 110 110 110
1100 1100 1100 1100 1173 1173 1173 1173
45 45 45 45 45 45 45 45
352 352 352 352 352 352 352 352
185/65 R14 185/65 R14 185/65 R14 185/65 R14 185/65 R14 185/65 R14 185/65 R14 185/65 R14
-
SONATA TRANSFORM For: Big size, comfortable ride, equipment levels. Against: Handling. Fuel efficiency. Verdict: A good attempt at matching the Honda Accord, but there still is some distance to go. Alternatives: 1. Honda Accord 2. Skoda Laura 3. VW Jetta 2.4 VTVT MT 2.0 CRDI MT 2.0 CRDi AT
15.59 16.61 17.82
2359/4 1991/4 1991/4
5 6 4A
233 175 314 150 314 150
NA 1489 1500
70 462 215/60 R16 70 462 215/60 R16 70 462 215/60 R16
-
✓ ✓ ✓
NA NA NA
NA NA NA
NA NA NA
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
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POWER WINDOWS
AIR BAGS
STEREO
ALLOY WHEELS
15 15 15
✓ ✓
-
✓ ✓
-
NA NA NA
111 111 111
DATE TESTED
OVERALL RATING
AVERAGE FUEL ECONOMY (IN KMPL)
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM
TRACTION CONTROL
TYRE SIZE
BOOT SPACE (IN LITRES)
FULE TANK CAPACITY (IN LITERS)
KERB WEIGHT OF THE VEHICLE IN KG
MAX POWER (IN PS)
MAX TORQUE (IN Nm)
NO. OF GEARS
CUBIC CAPACITY IN CC/CYLINDERS
MODEL NAME
PRICE (IN LAKH RUPEES)
THE GOOD THE BAD & THE UGLY
ICML RHINO
For: Value for money. Suspension. Against: Poor NVH levels. Fit and finish. Low end grunt. Verdict: ICML’s first passenger vehicle is a great contender for eating away sales from other MUVs. Alternatives: 1. Tata Sumo 2. Mahindra Bolero 3. Chevrolet Tavera S1 S2 Deluxe
7.53 8.11 8.57
1994/4 1994/4 1994/4
LAMBORGHINI
5 5 5
220 100 240 100 220 100
1633 1633 1633
50 50 50
NA NA NA
205/65 R15 205/65 R15 205/65 R15
-
-
NA NA NA
140 140 140
GALLARDO 560-4
For: : Genuine supercar. Against: Service network. Verdict: A genuine Lamborghini in every perceptible way. Alternatives: 1. Audi R8 2. Porsche Carrera S 3. Mercedes SL 500 Coupe Spyder (Ex-Delhi)
TBA 225
4961/10 4961/10
6 6
509 519 509 519
1500 1550
90 80
NA NA
NA NA
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
NA NA
NA NA
NA NA
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA NA
11111 11111
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
NA NA
NA NA
NA NA
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA NA
11111 11111
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
-
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
-
NA NA NA Sep 06
111 111 111 111
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
-
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
-
NA NA May 06 NA NA Jan 08
1112 1112 1112 1111 1111 1111
MURCIELAGO For: : The truest supercar of our times. Against: Quirky. Verdict: The definitve supercar. Alternatives: 1. Audi R8 2. Porsche 911 Carrera S LP640 (Ex-Delhi) LP640 Roadster
300 340
MAHINDRA
6496/12 6496/12
6 6
660 649 660 649
1665 100 NA 1690 100 NA
NA NA
BOLERO
For: Rugged. Reliable. Can handle the worst of terrain. Capable as a do-it-all MUV. Against: Lacks refinement. Verdict: : Get one if you have to haul a large number of people over bad roads. Alternatives: 1. ICML Rhino 2. Tata Sumo M2DI DIZ SLE SLX DI BSIII
5.77 6.31 6.47 6.87
2523/4 2523/4 2523/4 2523/4
5 5 5 5
180 180 180 180
63 63 63 63
1670 1670 1670 1670
60 60 60 60
NA NA NA NA
215/75 R15 215/75 R15 215/75 R15 215/75 R15
-
-
31.8 31.8 31.8 31.8
120.4 120.4 120.4 120.4
10.3 10.3 10.3 10.3
SCORPIO For: Smooth. Tractable CRDe engine. VFM SUV. Against: High-speed dynamics. Verdict: The best budget SUV around Alternatives: 1. Tata Safari 2. Toyota Innova M2DI LX CRDe SLE CRDe VLX mHawk MT VLX mHawk BS IV VLX mHawk AT
126
7.27 7.91 8.99 10.09 10.20 10.96
2609/4 2609/4 2609/4 2179/4 2179/4 2179/4
5 5 5 5 5 6A
290 290 290 290 290 290
120 120 120 120 120 120
1980 1980 1980 1980 1980 1980
55 55 55 60 60 60
460 460 460 460 460 460
225/70 R15 225/70 R15 225/70 R15 225/70 R15 225/70 R15 225/70 R15
-
✓ ✓ ✓
18.2 18.2 18.2 16.4 16.4 NA
149.8 149.8 149.8 155.2 155.2 NA
10.8 10.8 10.8 NA NA NA
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OVERALL RATING
✓
-
✓
-
11.5 11.5 11.5 11.5
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
-
- - ✓ ✓ ✓
NA NA NA Feb 09
1112 1112 1112 1112
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ - ✓ ✓ ✓ - - ✓ ✓ ✓
NA NA NA NA NA May 07 NA NA NA NA
NA NA NA 1112 1112 1112 11112 11112 11112 11112
DATE TESTED
ALLOY WHEELS
NA
AIR BAGS
STEREO
POWER WINDOWS
AVERAGE FUEL ECONOMY (IN KMPL)
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM
TRACTION CONTROL
TYRE SIZE
BOOT SPACE (IN LITRES)
FULE TANK CAPACITY (IN LITERS)
KERB WEIGHT OF THE VEHICLE IN KG
MAX POWER (IN PS)
MAX TORQUE (IN Nm)
NO. OF GEARS
CUBIC CAPACITY IN CC/CYLINDERS
MODEL NAME
PRICE (IN LAKH RUPEES)
ICML TO MARUTI SUZUKI
SCORPIO GETAWAY For: Tons of luggage space. Value for money. Against: Cramped interiors. Poor high speed handling. Verdict: Fun, inexpensive vehicle for the outdoors people. Alternatives: 1. Bolero Camper 2. Tata Telcoline 4x4 3. Tata Xenon Scorpio Getaway
8.64
2609/4
5
283 115
1910
55 460 235/70 R15
-
-
NA
NA
NA
NA
XYLO For: VFM, interiors, engine. Against: Unsettled ride. Verdict: The best bang for your money in the MUV segment Alternatives: 1. Chevrolet Tavera 2. Toyota Innova E2 E4 E6 E8
7.12 7.62 8.33 8.75
2498/4 2498/4 2498/4 2498/4
5 5 5 5
240 240 240 240
114 114 114 114
MAHINDRA RENAULT
1830 1830 1830 1830
55 55 55 55
NA NA NA NA
215/75 R15 215/75 R15 215/75 R15 215/75 R15
-
-
16.4 16.4 16.4 16.4
154 154 154 154
LOGAN
For: Space, gearbox, ride and price. Against: Lack of power, poor fit and finish, ergonomics. Verdict: Spacious, comfortable and practical. A great sedan for a tight budget. Alternatives: 1. Ford Ikon 2. Maruti DZire 3. Tata Indigo 1.4 GL 1.4 GLE 1.4 GLX 1.6 GLX 1.6 GLS 1.6 GLSX ABS 1.5 DLE 1.5 DLX 1.5 DLS 1.5 DLSX ABS
MAINI
5.12 5.35 5.57 6.09 6.32 6.54 6.57 7.06 7.58 7.77
1390/4 1390/4 1390/4 1598/4 1598/4 1598/4 1461/4 1461/4 1461/4 1461/4
5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
110 110 110 128 128 128 160 160 160 160
76 76 76 85 85 85 66 66 66 66
1080 1080 1080 1080 1080 1080 1140 1140 1140 1140
50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50
510 510 510 510 510 510 510 510 510 510
185/70 R14 185/70 R14 185/70 R14 185/70 R14 185/70 R14 185/70 R14 185/70 R14 185/70 R14 185/70 R14 185/70 R14
-
✓ ✓
NA NA NA 14.54 14.54 14.54 16.82 16.82 16.82 16.82
NA NA NA 165 165 165 152 152 152 152
NA NA NA 10.5 10.5 10.5 16.75 16.75 16.75 16.75
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
REVA
For: : Environment friendly. Operating costs. Styling. Against: : Impractical. Cramped. Performance. Limited range. Verdict: Good option for environment conscious city commuters who want limited mobility. Alternatives: 1. Maruti 800 LPG Standard AC Classe
3.70 4.18 4.69
DC DC DC
1 1 1
MARUTI SUZUKI
64 64 64
18 18 18
670 670 670
-
NA NA NA
145/70 R13 145/70 R13 145/70 R13
-
-
NA 56 NA
NA NA NA
-
-
- ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA NA NA
11 11 11
144 144 144
22.7 22.7 22.7
-
-
-
NA NA NA
111 111 111
NA NA NA
800
For: : Cheap!!! Reliable. Frugal. Inexpensive to live with. Against: Comfort. Space. Crash worthiness. Verdict: Does its job well for the entry level segment. Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki Alto 2. Hyundai Santro STD STD (M) AC
2.18 2.21 2.38
793/3 793/3 793/3
4 4 4
59 59 59
37.5 37.5 37.5
650 650 665
28 28 28
NA NA NA
145/70 R12 145/70 R12 145/70 R12
-
-
21 21 21
-
*Conditions apply
Happiness comes on wheels this festive season
For details contact autoloans@tatacapital.com or SMS AUTO to 56070
We only do what’s right for you
CAR India SEPTEMBER 2009
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STEREO
ALLOY WHEELS
144 144 144 144 144
22.7 22.7 22.7 22.7 22.7
-
-
-
-
NA NA NA NA NA
111 111 111 111 111
NA NA NA NA NA NA
NA NA NA NA NA NA
19.7 19.7 19.7 19.7 NA NA
-
-
-
-
NA NA NA NA NA NA
112 112 112 112 112 112
21.2 21.2 21.2 21.2 21.2 21.2
-
NA NA NA NA NA NA
1112 1112 1112 1112 1112 1112
DATE TESTED
OVERALL RATING
AIR BAGS
21 21 21 21 21
AVERAGE FUEL ECONOMY (IN KMPL)
-
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)
-
POWER WINDOWS
145/70 R12 145/70 R12 145/70 R12 145/70 R12 145/70 R12
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
NA NA NA NA NA
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM
28 28 28 28 28
TRACTION CONTROL
665 650 650 665 665
TYRE SIZE
BOOT SPACE (IN LITRES)
37.5 37.5 37.5 37.5 37.5
FULE TANK CAPACITY (IN LITERS)
59 59 59 59 59
MAX POWER (IN PS)
4 4 4 4 4
KERB WEIGHT OF THE VEHICLE IN KG
793/3 793/3 793/3 796/3 796/3
MAX TORQUE (IN Nm)
2.41 2.44 2.47 2.52 2.55
NO. OF GEARS
PRICE (IN LAKH RUPEES)
AC (M) LPG BS3 LPG BS3(M) AC LPG AC LPG (M)
CUBIC CAPACITY IN CC/CYLINDERS
MODEL NAME
THE GOOD THE BAD & THE UGLY
OMNI For: Cheap-as-chips. Oodles of space. Maintainance. Against: Unsafe. Minimalistic. Verdict: A cheap van with dangerously dicey dynamics and safety issues. Alternatives: 1. Tata Ace Magic 8 E3 8 E3(M) 5 E3 5 E3(M) LPG E3 LPG E3(M)
2.63 2.66 2.61 2.64 2.79 2.82
796/3 796/3 796/3 796/3 796/3 796/3
4 4 4 4 4 4
62 62 62 62 NA NA
35.5 35.5 35.5 35.5 27.3 27.3
785 785 785 785 785 800
36 36 36 36 36 36
NA NA NA NA NA NA
145/70 R12 145/70 R12 145/70 R12 145/70 R12 145/70 R12 145/70 R12
-
-
ALTO For: : Price. Performance. Design. Better than a 800. Against: Rear space. Luggage space. Verdict: A deal at the price. Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki 800 2. Hyundai Santro 3. Chevrolet Spark STD STD (M) LX LX (M) LXI LXI (M)
2.61 2.64 2.96 2.99 3.14 3.17
796/3 796/3 796/3 796/3 796/3 796/3
5 5 5 5 5 5
62 62 62 62 62 62
47.6 47.6 47.6 47.6 47.6 47.6
725 725 740 740 740 740
35 35 35 35 35 35
NA NA NA NA NA NA
145/80 R12 145/80 R12 145/80 R12 145/80 R12 145/80 R12 145/80 R12
-
-
136.5 136.5 136.5 136.5 136.5 136.5
20.5 20.5 20.5 20.5 20.5 20.5
-
-
-
-
- 15.51 155.5 - 15.51 155.5 ✓ 15.51 155.5
15.9 15.9 15.9
✓ ✓ ✓
✓
- ✓ ✓ ✓
Dec 08 Dec 08 Dec 08
1111 1111 1111
16 16 16 16 16 16 16 16
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
-
NA NA NA NA NA Jan 07 NA NA
1112 1112 1112 1112 1112 1112 1112 1112
A-STAR For: : Fuel efficiency, handling, performance. Against: Gear shift, space at the rear Verdict: Ready to take on the fight in the A2 segment. Alternatives: 1. Hyundai i10 LXi VXi ZXi
3.87 4.16 4.56
998/3 998/3 998/3
5 5 5
90 90 90
67 67 67
860 860 860
35 35 35
NA NA NA
155/80 R13 155/80 R13 155/80 R13
ZEN ESTILO For: Styling. Fuel efficiency. Manoeuvrability. Against: Ride quality needs to be improved. Unstable at high-speeds. Verdict: Not as promising as it looks. Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Santro 2. Chevrolet Spark LX LX (M) LXI LXI (M) VXI VXI (M) VXI (ABS) VXI (ABS) (M)
128
3.45 3.48 3.77 3.80 4.03 4.06 4.33 4.36
1061/4 1061/4 1061/4 1061/4 1061/4 1061/4 1061/4 1061/4
5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
84 84 84 84 84 84 84 84
64.9 64.9 64.9 64.9 64.9 64.9 64 64
855 855 855 855 875 875 855 855
35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35
212 212 212 212 212 212 212 212
145/70 R13 145/70 R13 145/70 R13 145/70 R13 155/65 R13 155/65 R13 155/65 R13 155/65 R13
-
✓ ✓
16.4 16.4 16.4 16.4 16.4 16.4 16.4 16.4
154.1 154.1 154.1 154.1 154.1 154.1 154.1 154.1
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
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AIR BAGS
STEREO
ALLOY WHEELS
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ -
-
-
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ -
NA NA NA NA NA NA NA Sep 06 NA NA NA NA NA NA
1112 1112 1112 1112 1112 1112 1112 1112 1112 1112 1112 1112 1112 1112
✓ ✓ ✓
11.6 11.6 11.6 11.6 14.18 14.18 14.18
167.9 167.9 167.9 167.9 164 164 164
15.6 15.6 15.6 15.6 19.5 19.5 19.5
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ -
-
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA NA Aug 05 NA NA Mar 07 NA
11112 11112 11112 11112 11112 11112 11112
NA NA NA 158 158 158
NA NA NA 8.75 8.75 8.75
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓
- - ✓ ✓ - - ✓ ✓
NA NA NA May 08 May 08 May 08
1111 1111 1111 1111 11112 11112
OVERALL RATING
POWER WINDOWS
14 14 14z 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14
DATE TESTED
AVERAGE FUEL ECONOMY (IN KMPL)
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)
17.5 144.9 17.5 144.9 17.5 144.9 17.5 144.9 17.5 144.9 17.5 144.9 17.12 143.33 17.12 143.33 17.5 144.9 17..5 144.9 17.5 144.9 17.5 144.9 17.5 144.9 17.5 144.9
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
✓ ✓ -
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM
TRACTION CONTROL
TYRE SIZE
BOOT SPACE (IN LITRES)
FULE TANK CAPACITY (IN LITERS)
KERB WEIGHT OF THE VEHICLE IN KG
MAX POWER (IN PS)
MAX TORQUE (IN Nm)
NO. OF GEARS
CUBIC CAPACITY IN CC/CYLINDERS
PRICE (IN LAKH RUPEES)
MODEL NAME
MARUTI SUZUKI
WAGON R For: Flexible interiors. Performance. Fuel efficiency. Easy to manoeuvre. Against: Rubbery and notchy gearshift. Bland interiors. Verdict: A very practical and zippy car for small urban families. Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Santro 2. Chevrolet Spark 3. Maruti Suzuki Zen Estilo LX LX (M) LX DUO LPG LX DUO LPG (M) LXI LXI (M) LXI DUO LPG LXI DUO LPG (M) VXI VXI (M) VXI ABS VXI ABS (M) AX AX (M)
3.54 3.58 3.73 3.77 3.83 3.86 4.05 4.08 4.07 4.11 4.39 4.43 4.84 4.88
1061/4 1061/4 1061/4 1061/4 1061/4 1061/4 1061/4 1061/4 1061/4 1061/4 1061/4 1061/4 1061/4 1061/4
5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
84 84 84 84 84 84 84 84 84 84 84 84 84 84
64.9 64.9 64.9 64.9 64.9 64.9 64.9 64.9 64.9 64.9 64.9 64.9 64.9 64.9
825 825 830 830 825 825 830 830 825 825 825 825 825 825
35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35
NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA
145/70 R13 145/70 R13 155/70 R13 155/70 R13 145/70 R13 145/70 R13 155/70 R13 155/70 R13 155/70 R13 155/70 R13 155/70 R13 155/70 R13 155/70 R13 155/70 R13
-
SWIFT For: Street fighter looks. Matching performance. Against: Luggage space. Verdict: The standard bearer amongst minis. Alternatives: 1. Chevrolet U-VA 2. Hyundai Getz LXI VXI VXI ABS ZXI ABS+Airbags LDI Diesel VDI Diesel VDI Diesel ABS
4.56 4.90 5.11 5.79 5.21 5.58 5.79
1298/4 1298/4 1298/4 1298/4 1248/4 1248/4 1248/4
5 5 5 5 5 5 5
113 113 113 113 190 190 190
88.2 88.2 88.2 88.2 76 76 76
980 1000 1000 1010 1065 1075 1075
43 43 43 43 43 43 43
232 232 232 232 232 232 232
165/80 R14 165/80 R14 165/80 R14 165/80 R14 155/80 R14 155/80 R14 155/80 R14
-
SWIFT DZIRE For: Frugal, powerful and practical diesel mill, great value. Against: Isn’t too good to look at. Verdict: It’s tough to find a better entry level saloon for that price. Great car, if only it looked a bit better. Alternatives: 1. Mahindra Logan 2. Tata Indigo 3. Ford Ikon LXi VXi ZXi ABS Ldi Vdi Zdi ABS
5.19 5.68 6.65 6.11 6.58 7.49
1298/4 1298/4 1298/4 1248/4 1248/4 1248/4
5 5 5 5 5 5
113 88.2 113 88.2 113 88.2 190 76 190 76 190 76
1170 1170 1170 1115 1115 1115
50 50 50 45 45 45
450 450 450 450 450 450
195/65 R15 195/65 R15 195/65 R15 185/60 R14 185/60 R14 185/60 R14
-
✓ ✓
NA NA NA 7.7 7.7 7.7
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- - ✓ ✓ - - -
July 09 July 09 July 09 July 09 July 09
1111 1111 1111 1111 1111
✓
- ✓ ✓
NA Jun 07
1111 1111
DATE TESTED
OVERALL RATING
✓ -
ALLOY WHEELS
AIR BAGS
162.1 17.4 162.1 17.4 ✓ 162.1 17.4 ✓ 170 20.75 170 20.75 ✓
STEREO
POWER WINDOWS
AVERAGE FUEL ECONOMY (IN KMPL)
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM
TRACTION CONTROL
TYRE SIZE
BOOT SPACE (IN LITRES)
FULE TANK CAPACITY (IN LITERS)
KERB WEIGHT OF THE VEHICLE IN KG
MAX POWER (IN PS)
MAX TORQUE (IN Nm)
NO. OF GEARS
CUBIC CAPACITY IN CC/CYLINDERS
MODEL NAME
PRICE (IN LAKH RUPEES)
THE GOOD THE BAD & THE UGLY
RITZ For: Ride quality, frugal engines Against: Weak top end (petrol) Verdict: Maruti’s new winner this segments Alternatives: 1. FIAT Grande Punto 2. Hyundai i10 LXi (ex-Pune) VXi (ex-Pune) ZXi (ex-Pune) LDi (ex-Pune) VDi (ex-Pune)
3.94 4.25 4.89 4.68 5.20
1197/4 1197/4 1197/4 1248/4 1248/4
5 5 5 5 5
113 113 113 190 190
85 85 85 75 75
1005 1005 1005 1100 1100
43 43 43 43 43
236 236 236 236 236
165/80 R14 165/80 R14 185/70 R14 165/80 R14 165/80 R14
-
✓ ✓
14.92 14.92 14.92 14.71 14.71
SX4 For: Feature packed with great space and resonable performance. Against: Rivals are slightly faster and quicker. Verdict: A contemporary all-round package. Alternatives: 1. Honda City 2. Ford Fiesta 3. Chevrolet Aveo VXi ZXi ABS
7.38 8.15
1586/4 1586/4
5 5
145 103.4 1170 145 103.4 1200
50 50
NA NA
195/65 R15 205/60 R16
-
✓
12.4 179.2 12.62 ✓ 12.4 179.2 12.62 ✓
VERSA For: No. of seats. Lugging power. Car-like looks. Against: Seat comfort. Looks. Tacky interiors. Dynamics. Verdict: A practical and cheap urban solution for big families. Perhaps for tour operators too. Alternatives: 1. Tata Sumo 2. Mahindra Bolero 3. Chevrolet Tavera DX 5-Seater DX 5-Seater (M) DX 8-Seater DX 8-Seater (M) DX2 8-Seater DX2 8-Seater (M)
4.34 4.39 5.16 5.20 5.63 5.67
1298/4 1298/4 1298/4 1298/4 1298/4 1298/4
5 5 5 5 5 5
102 102 102 102 102 102
83.1 83.1 83.1 83.1 83.1 83.1
930 930 975 975 985 985
40 40 40 40 40 40
NA NA NA NA NA NA
155/80 R13 155/80 R13 155/80 R13 155/80 R13 155/80 R13 155/80 R13
-
-
13.5 13.5 13.5 13.5 13.5 13.5
149.6 149.6 149.6 149.6 149.6 149.6
11.8 11.8 11.8 11.8 11.8 11.8
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
-
-
-
NA NA NA NA NA NA
112 112 112 112 112 112
-
-
16.4 16.4 16.4 16.4
NA NA NA NA
NA NA NA NA
-
-
-
-
NA NA NA NA
111 111 111 111
9 NA
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
GYPSY For: Thorough off-roader. Against: Tarmac form. Handling and ride. Thirsty. Verdict: For those who tread the untrodden roads. One of the best off roaders. Alternatives: 1. Mahindra Bolero Invader 2. Force Motors Gurkha King ST (E3) King ST (E3)(M) King HT (E3) King HT (E3)(M)
5.71 5.74 6.03 6.07
1298/4 1298/4 1298/4 1298/4
5 5 5 5
103 103 103 103
81.1 81.1 81.1 81.1
985 985 1040 1040
40 40 40 40
NA NA NA NA
205/70 R15 205/70 R15 205/70 R15 205/70 R15
GRAND VITARA For: Good looks. Well priced in its class. Against: Harsh ride, thirsty engine. Verdict: Well rounded on/off-roader. Alternatives: 1. Honda CR-V 2. Ford Endeavour 3. Hyundai Tucson 4. Chevrolet Captiva 5. Mitsubishi Outlander MT (ex-Pune) AT (ex-Pune)
130
16.95 18.25
2393/4 2393/4
5 5A
225 166 225 166
1614 1636
66 398 225/65 R17 66 398 225/65 R17
-
✓ 12.01 179 ✓ NA NA
Aug 09 NA
1111 1111
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AIR BAGS
STEREO
ALLOY WHEELS
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
11.2 10.6
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
OVERALL RATING
POWER WINDOWS
NA 10.5 NA 12
DATE TESTED
AVERAGE FUEL ECONOMY (IN KMPL)
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM
TRACTION CONTROL
TYRE SIZE
BOOT SPACE (IN LITRES)
FULE TANK CAPACITY (IN LITERS)
KERB WEIGHT OF THE VEHICLE IN KG
MAX POWER (IN PS)
MAX TORQUE (IN Nm)
NO. OF GEARS
CUBIC CAPACITY IN CC/CYLINDERS
PRICE (IN LAKH RUPEES)
MODEL NAME
MARUTI SUZUKI TO MERCEDES-BENZ
MERCEDES-BENZ C-CLASS
For: Comfort. Safety. Brand appeal. Against: Performance doesn’t match competition Verdict: Still the most comfortable. Alternatives: 1. Audi A4 2. BMW 3series C200K Manual C200K Auto C220 CDI Manual C220 CDI Auto
28.90 30.86 31.96 34.33
1796/4 1796/4 2148/4 2148/4
6 5A 6 5A
240 240 410 410
179 179 172 172
1455 1455 1520 1520
62 62 62 62
420 420 420 420
205/55 R16 205/55 R16 205/55 R16 205/55 R16
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ NA NA ✓ 10.84 222 ✓ NA NA ✓ 10.90 223
NA Apr 08 NA NA
11111 11111 11111 11111
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA NA
11111 11111
SLK For: Great engine. Chassis. Transmission. Looks. Against: Price. Verdict: A genuine sports car. Alternatives: 1. Audi TT 2. Porsche Boxster 200K 2d 350 2d
45.60 59.50
1796/4 3498/6
5A 7A
240 165 350 276
1390 1465
70 300 205/55 R16 70 300 245/40 R17
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
7.6 230 7.3 247.5
E-CLASS For: Big. Nice to drive. Well equipped. Against: Nothing really. Verdict: Packed solid with state-of-the-art technology and features. Alternatives: 1. Audi A6 2. BMW 5 Series 3. Volvo S80 E200K E280 E280 CDI
43.17 51.01 49.54
1796/4 2996/6 2987/6
5A 7A 7A
221 160 1570 300 234.3 1650 456 198.7 1615
80 540 225/55 R16 65 540 225/55 R16 80 540 225/55 R16
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓
12.2 213.5 9.16 233.4 8.60 238
10.1 9.16 11.2
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA Apr 06 Apr 07
11111 11111 11111
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
6.8 5.9
9.9 8.8
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA NA
11111 11111
7.75 8.14
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Jun 07 NA
11111 11111
8.1
✓
✓
✓ ✓
NA
11111
CLS-CLASS For: Distinctive. Better to drive than the E class. Against: Lack of rear head room Verdict: Refreshing new looks. Alternatives: 1. Mercedes-Benz SL500 2. BMW 650i CLS350 CLS500
70.00 83.00
3498/6 4996/8
7A 7A
350 276 460 308
1730 2170
80 505 245/45 R17 83 505 245/40 R18
250 250
S-CLASS For: Luxury. Dynamics. The tag of “World’s Best Car”. Against: Price. Verdict: Elegant looking with top of the line luxury features. Alternatives: 1. BMW 7-Series 2. Audi A8 S320 CDIL S500L
82.24 117.48
3498/6 5461/6
7A 7A
350 275 530 388
1925 1985
90 560 235/55 R17 90 560 235/55 R17
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓
✓
9.4 226.2 5.4 249.4
SL-CLASS For: Superb - an icon redefined. Against: Expensive. Verdict: Even the other half are envious. Alternatives: 1. Bentley Continental GT SL500
130.00
4966/8
7A
460 310
1845
80 317 255/45 R17
6
249.4
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131
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✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Jul 07 Feb 07
11111 11111
✓ ✓
5.3 5.4
250 250
6 6
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA NA
11111 11111
15 14
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Oct 06 NA
11112 11112
DATE TESTED
OVERALL RATING
AIR BAGS
8.26 8.5
ALLOY WHEELS
POWER WINDOWS
210 Na
STEREO
AVERAGE FUEL ECONOMY (IN KMPL)
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)
9.30 8.1
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
✓ ✓
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM
TRACTION CONTROL
TYRE SIZE
BOOT SPACE (IN LITRES)
FULE TANK CAPACITY (IN LITERS)
KERB WEIGHT OF THE VEHICLE IN KG
MAX POWER (IN PS)
MAX TORQUE (IN Nm)
NO. OF GEARS
CUBIC CAPACITY IN CC/CYLINDERS
MODEL NAME
PRICE (IN LAKH RUPEES)
THE GOOD THE BAD & THE UGLY
ML-CLASS For: : Great softroader and an SUV with a brand image. Against: Equipment level Verdict: State of the art technology and looks. Alternatives: 1. BMW X5 2. Porsche Cayenne 3. Audi Q7 ML320 CDI 4MATIC ML350 4MATIC
74.00 74.00
2987/6 3498/6
7A 7A
510 227 350 271
2185 2135
95 500 255/50 R19 95 500 255/50 R19
✓ ✓
MAYBACH For: Powertrain. Equipment. In cabin sound insulation. Against: Price. Verdict: A technological extravaganza. Alternatives: 1. Rolls-Royce Phantom 2. Bentley Arnage 57 62
600.00 600.00
NISSAN
5500/12 5A 5500/12 5A
900 557 900 557
2735 110 605 275/50 R19 2855 110 605 275/50 R19
✓ ✓
X-TRAIL
For: Ride.Equipment. Diesel engine. Against: : Bottom end torque. Price. Verdict: A diesel alternative for the CR-V. Alternatives: 1. Chevrolet Captiva 2. Honda CR-V 3. Hyundai Tuscon 4. Ford Endeavour ELEGANCE COMFORT
23.99 27.52
2184/4 2184/4
6 6
314 138 314 138
1520 1520
60 827 215/65 R16 60 827 215/65 R16
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
13 13
172 172
TEANA For: Refinement. Space. Features. Against: Outright performance. Service. Spares. Verdict: An exceptionally good car for those who like being chauffeur driven. Alternatives: 1. Skoda Superb 2. Honda Accord 3. Toyota Camry 230JM
23.67
PORSCHE
2349/6
4A
224 170
1459
70 476 205/65 R16
✓
✓
✓
✓
12.84 196
9
✓
✓
✓ ✓
Aug 07
11112
BOXSTER
For: Power. Open-top fun. Against: Price. Service backup. Verdict: A genuine sports car. Alternatives: 1. Audi TT 2. Mercedes-Benz CLK 3. Mercedes-Benz SLK Boxster S
52.88
3387/6
6
330 295
1385
64 150 235/35 R19
5.4
292
9.6
✓
✓
✓ ✓
NA
11112
5.4
292
9.6
✓
✓
✓ ✓
NA
11112
CAYMAN For: Absolute driver’s car. Against: Price. Service backup. Verdict: A typical sports car from Porsche. Alternatives: 1. Audi TT 2. Mercedes-Benz CLK 3. Mercedes-Benz SLK 3.2 S
57.38
3387/6
6
330 295
1340
64 150 235/40 R18
✓
✓
*Conditions apply
Happiness comes on wheels this festive season
132
For details contact autoloans@tatacapital.com or SMS AUTO to 56070
We only do what’s right for you
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POWER WINDOWS
AIR BAGS
STEREO
ALLOY WHEELS
8.3 7.9 8.3 7.9 8.3
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA NA NA NA NA
11112 11112 11112 11112 11112
DATE TESTED
OVERALL RATING
AVERAGE FUEL ECONOMY (IN KMPL)
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM
TRACTION CONTROL
TYRE SIZE
BOOT SPACE (IN LITRES)
FULE TANK CAPACITY (IN LITERS)
KERB WEIGHT OF THE VEHICLE IN KG
MAX POWER (IN PS)
MAX TORQUE (IN Nm)
NO. OF GEARS
CUBIC CAPACITY IN CC/CYLINDERS
PRICE (IN LAKH RUPEES)
MODEL NAME
MERCEDES-BENZ TO SKODA
911 For: Do you really need to ask? Against: Price. Service backup. Verdict: One of the best performance cars that you can buy. Alternatives: 1. Mercedes-Benz SL 2. Bentley Continental GT 3. Mercedes-Benz CLK Carrera Carrera S Carrera Cabriolet Carrera S Cabriolet Carrera 4S
74.00 83.90 83.90 93.80 89.61
3596/6 3824/6 3596/6 3824/6 3596/6
5A 5A 5A 5A 5A
370 400 370 400 370
329 360 329 360 329
1436 1461 1436 1461 1551
64 64 64 64 64
135 130 135 135 100
235/65 R18 235/65 R18 235/65 R18 235/65 R18 235/55 R18
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
4.9 4.7 5.1 4.9 5.7
283 292 284 276 274
CAYENNE For: Porsche badge. Against: Ride quality. Service backup. Verdict: Adulterated, but a Porsche all the same. Alternatives: 1. Audi Q7 2. BMW X5 3. Mercedes-Benz ML350 5d S 5d Turbo 5d Triptronic
58.06 75.14 113.78
3198/6 4511/8 4511/8
ROLLS-ROYCE
6A 6A 6A
310 253 420 345 623 456
2160 100 540 255/55 R18 2225 100 540 255/55 R18 2355 100 540 255/55 R18
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓
8.9 6.8 5.5
213 240 265
7.4 6 6.4
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA NA NA
11111 11111 11111
✓
✓
5.8
240
6
✓
✓
✓ ✓
NA
11111
16 16 16 NA 17.12 17.12 17.12 17.12
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA NA Jun 08 NA NA NA NA Mar 08
11112 11112 11112 11112 11112 11112 11112 11112
PHANTOM
For: Massive presence. Against: Massive presence. Verdict: Out of my way, little man. Alternatives: 1. Mercedes Maybach 2. Bentley Flying Spur 3. Bentley Arnage 4d Auto
SKODA
400.00
6749/12 6A
720 459 24595 100 460
NA
FABIA
For: Fuel efficieny, lot of cabin space, ride quality. Against: Price, engine clatter from diesel, sluggish performance. Verdict: An exceptionally well equipped hatch with a lot of space. Great interiors. Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki Swift 2. Hyundai Getz 3. Ford Fusion 1.2 P Active 1.2 P Classic 1.2 P Ambiente 1.4 MPI Elegance 1.4 Active TDI 1.4 Classic TDI 1.4 Ambiente TDI 1.4 Elegance TDI
5.43 5.81 6.51 7.78 6.50 6.88 7.81 8.45
1198/3 1198/3 1198/3 1390/4 1422/3 1422/3 1422/3 1422/3
5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
108 108 108 132 155 155 155 155
70 70 70 85 68 68 68 68
1050 1050 1050 1090 1090 1090 1090 1090
45 45 45 45 45 45 45 45
300 300 300 300 300 300 300 300
185/60 R14 185/60 R14 185/60 R14 185/60 R14 185/60 R14 185/60 R14 185/60 R14 185/60 R14
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
19.10 19.10 19.10 NA 15.42 15.42 15.42 15.42
160 160 160 NA 162.3 162.3 162.3 162.3
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
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STEREO
ALLOY WHEELS
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Sep 06 NA NA NA
11112 11112 11112 11112
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
June 09 NA NA NA Jan 06
11112 11111 11111 11111 11111
11.1 11.5 8.5
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Apr 09 May 09 Sept 09
11111 11112 11112
22 22 22
✓
-
-
NA NA Apr 09
11111 11111 11111
OVERALL RATING
AIR BAGS
214.2 10.75 ✓ 174.8 15.7 ✓ 174.8 15.7 ✓ 174.8 15.7 ✓
DATE TESTED
POWER WINDOWS
AVERAGE FUEL ECONOMY (IN KMPL)
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM
TRACTION CONTROL
TYRE SIZE
BOOT SPACE (IN LITRES)
FULE TANK CAPACITY (IN LITERS)
KERB WEIGHT OF THE VEHICLE IN KG
MAX POWER (IN PS)
MAX TORQUE (IN Nm)
NO. OF GEARS
CUBIC CAPACITY IN CC/CYLINDERS
MODEL NAME
PRICE (IN LAKH RUPEES)
THE GOOD THE BAD & THE UGLY
OCTAVIA For: Bulletproof build. Imposing stance. Peppy and frugal diesel. Against: Ground clearance. Rear legroom. Verdict: A car that brought a segment alive, and for a very sensible reason. Alternatives: 1. Toyota Corolla 2. Hyundai Elantra 3. Chevrolet Optra Magnum 1.8 Ambiente Petrol 1.9TDI Ambiente 1.9 TDI Elegance 1.9TDI L&K
11.43 12.45 13.57 15.06
1781/4 1896/4 1896/4 1896/4
5 5 5 5
210 210 210 210
152 91.2 91.2 91.2
1350 1330 1330 1330
55 55 55 55
530 530 530 530
195/65 R15 195/65 R15 195/65 R15 195/65 R15
-
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
9.1 13.5 13.5 13.5
LAURA For: Loaded with technology. Performance. Equipment list. Against: Price. Verdict: A genuine D-segmenter loaded with all the goodies. Alternatives: 1. Honda Civic 2. Toyota Corolla 3. Volkswagen Jetta 1.8 TSI Ambiente MT 1.9 TDI Ambiente MT 1.9 TDI Ambiente AT 1.9 TDI Elegance MT 1.9 TDI Elegance AT
14.08 14.43 15.22 15.94 16.72
1798/4 1896/4 1896/4 1896/4 1896/4
6 5 6A 5 6A
250 250 250 250 250
160 105 105 105 105
1350 1350 1350 1350 1350
55 55 55 55 55
560 560 560 560 560
205/55 R16 205/55 R16 205/55 R16 205/55 R16 205/55 R16
-
✓ ✓ ✓
9.4 214 NA NA 13.4 192.5 NA NA 13.4 192.5
12.5 NA 16.4 NA 16.4
SUPERB For: Performance. Comfort. Luxury. Presence. Build. Equipment list. Knockout price. Against: The Badge. Verdict: : A genuinely well equipped luxury sedan. Alternatives: 1. Honda Accord V6 2. Toyota Camry 3. Nissan Teana 1.8 Petrol 1.9 Diesel 3.6 Petrol
21.70 23.40 28.77
1798/4 1968/4 3597/6
TATA MOTORS
7A 6A 6A
250 160 320 140 350 259
1567 1471 1750
60 565 205/55 R16 60 565 205/55 R16 60 565 225/45 R17
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ 9.69 201 ✓ 10.92 198 ✓ 8.57 220
NANO
For: Sheer value for money. Space. Price. Against: Built to a price. Verdict: A real ‘car’ for a very very low price. Alternatives: 1. Maruti 800 2. Used Maruti Suzuki Alto 3. Used Hyundai Santro Base CX LX
134
1.45 1.70 2.00
624/2 624/2 624/2
4 4 4
48 48 48
35 35 35
600 600 600
15 135 135/70 R12 15 135 135/70 R12 15 135 135/70 R12
-
-
29.6 106.2 29.6 106.2 29.6 106.2
-
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165/65 R13 165/65 R13 165/65 R13 165/65 R13 165/65 R13 165/65 R13 165/65 R13 165/65 R13 165/65 R13 165/65 R14 165/65 R14 165/65 R14
-
-
17.8 17.8 17.8 17.8 17.56 NA 25.5 25.5 25.5 16.37 16.37 NA
147.5 147.5 147.5 147.5 153 NA 134.8 134.8 134.8 155 155 NA
12.6 12.6 12.6 12.6 14 NA 18.5 18.5 18.5 16.5 16.5 NA
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
-
- - - - - ✓ - - - - - ✓ ✓ - ✓
NA NA NA NA Apr 06 NA NA NA NA NA NA NA
111 111 111 111 111
1405/4 1405/4 1248/4 1248/4 1172/4 1172/4 1172/4
5 5 5 5 5 5 5
135 135 190 190 96 96 96
71 71 75 75 65 65 65
1135 1135 1140 1140 1075 1075 1075
37 37 37 37 37 37 37
217 217 232 232 217 217 217
175/65 R14 175/65 R14 175/65 R14 175/65 R14 175/70 R14 175/70 R14 175/70 R14
-
-
NA NA 17.22 17.22 NA NA NA
NA NA NA NA NA NA NA
NA NA 18 18 NA NA NA
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
-
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA NA NA Oct 08 NA NA NA
1111 1111 1111 1111 1111 1111 1111
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
-
- - - ✓ - ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ -
DATE TESTED
OVERALL RATING
217 217 217 217 217 217 217 217 217 217 217 217
ALLOY WHEELS
37 37 37 37 37 37 37 37 37 37 37 37
STEREO
AIR BAGS
995 995 995 995 995 995 980 980 980 1050 1050 1105
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM
65 65 65 65 70 70 54 54 54 68 68 70
TYRE SIZE
100 100 100 100 122 122 85 85 85 130 130 140
BOOT SPACE (IN LITRES)
5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
MAX TORQUE (IN Nm)
1193/4 1193/4 1193/4 1193/4 1405/4 1405/4 1405/4 1405/4 1405/4 1405/4 1405/4 1396/4
NO. OF GEARS
POWER WINDOWS
AVERAGE FUEL ECONOMY (IN KMPL)
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
TRACTION CONTROL
FULE TANK CAPACITY (IN LITERS)
KERB WEIGHT OF THE VEHICLE IN KG
MAX POWER (IN PS)
CUBIC CAPACITY IN CC/CYLINDERS
PRICE (IN LAKH RUPEES)
MODEL NAME
SKODA TO TATA MOTORS
INDICA For: Reliable and efficient diesel. Space. Economical to run and maintain. Against: : Refinement. Build quality. NVH. Verdict: One of the cheapest cars to own and run. Alternatives: 1. Chevrolet Spark 2. Hyundai Getz Prime 3. Fiat Palio Stile XETA GL XETA GLE XETA GLS XETA GLG XETA GLX XETA GLS LPG DL DLE DLS DLG TC DLX TC DLG DICOR
2.74 3.03 3.23 3.49 3.93 3.65 3.45 3.71 3.89 4.25 4.42 4.53
NA 111 111 111 1112 1112 1112
INDICA VISTA Tera TDI Aqua TDI Aqua Quadra Aura Quadra Tera Safire Aqua Safire Aura Safire
4.14 4.29 4.95 5.24 3.70 3.94 4.21
-
INDIGO For: Exceptional VFM . Space. Against: Poor refinement. Build quality. Verdict: Incredibly cheap and efficient three-box saloon at the price of a hatch. Alternatives: 1. Ford Ikon 2. Mahindra-Renault Logan 3. Maruti Suzuki DZire GLS GLX LS DICOR LS TDI LX TDI CS LS DICOR CS LE TDI CS LS TDI
4.94 5.30 5.64 5.34 5.76 5.18 4.36 4.66
1396/4 1396/4 1396/4 1405/4 1405/4 1396/4 1405/4 1405/4
5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
117 117 140 132 132 140 132 132
85 85 85 70 70 85 70 70
1155 1155 1155 1155 1155 1065 1065 1065
42 42 42 42 42 42 42 42
450 450 450 450 450 380 380 380
175/65 R14 175/65 R14 175/65 R14 175/65 R14 175/65 R14 175/65 R14 175/65 R14 175/65 R14
-
-
16 16 19.5 19.5 19.5 NA NA NA
157.9 157.9 154.2 154.2 154.2 NA NA NA
14.5 14.5 18.9 18.9 18.9 NA NA NA
NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA
111 111 111 111 111 NA NA 111
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POWER WINDOWS
AIR BAGS
STEREO
ALLOY WHEELS
-
-
14.5 14.5 14.5 18.5
160.9 160.9 160.9 143.2
12.1 12.1 12.1 16.5
✓ ✓ ✓
-
-
✓ ✓
NA NA NA NA
111 111 111 111
-
-
NA NA
NA NA
NA NA
✓ ✓
-
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA NA
111 111
-
-
NA NA
NA NA
NA NA
✓ ✓
-
-
✓ ✓
NA NA
-
-
✓ ✓
NA NA NA NA NA Jun 08
111 111 111 111 111 111
✓ ✓
- ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA NA NA Nov 07 NA
1111 1111 1111 1111 1111
DATE TESTED
OVERALL RATING
AVERAGE FUEL ECONOMY (IN KMPL)
175/65 R14 175/65 R14 175/65 R14 175/65 R14
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)
410 410 410 410
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
TYRE SIZE
42 42 42 42
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM
BOOT SPACE (IN LITRES)
1130 1130 1130 1130
TRACTION CONTROL
FULE TANK CAPACITY (IN LITERS)
117 117 140 132
KERB WEIGHT OF THE VEHICLE IN KG
MAX TORQUE (IN Nm)
5 5 5 5
MAX POWER (IN PS)
NO. OF GEARS
CUBIC CAPACITY IN CC/CYLINDERS
MODEL NAME
PRICE (IN LAKH RUPEES)
THE GOOD THE BAD & THE UGLY
INDIGO MARINA GLS GLX LS DICOR LX DICOR
5.19 5.58 6.18 6.75
1396/4 1396/4 1396/4 1405/4
85 85 70 70
INDIGO XL For: Lots of leg space. Against: Too heavy for the engine capacity. Enormous body roll Verdict: Stretched beyond imagination. Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Verna 2. Ford Fiesta 3. Chevrolet Aveo 4. Mahindra-Renault Logan Petrol Grand DICOR Grand
7.53 8.28
1396/4 1396/4
5 5
124 101 140 70
1150 1185
42 450 175/65 R14 42 450 175/65 R14
XENON For: Huge load bay. Spacious. Torquey. Against: Refinement. Gearshift quality. Fit and finish. Verdict: Perfect for outdoor personalities. Alternatives: 1. Scorpio Getaway. XT 4x2 XT 4x4
8.50 9.56
2179/4 2179/4
5 5
320 140 320 140
1860 1860
65 65
NA NA
205/75 R16 205/75 R16
NA NA
SUMO For: Practical. Spacious. Efficient. Cheap to own and maintain. Against: Boxy looks. Build quality. Interiors. Ride and handling. Performance. Verdict: Good, rugged option for tour operators and rural customers. Competition is better, but pricier too. Alternatives: 1. Chevrolet Tavera 2. Mahindra Bolero Spacio SA Victa EX Victa GX Sumo Grande LX Sumo Grande EX Sumo Grande GX
6.07 6.25 7.16 7.40 7.80 8.42
1948/4 1948/4 1948/4 2179/4 2179/4 2179/4
5 5 5 5 5 5
117 68 117 68 190 91 250 120 250 120 250 120
1700 1700 1705 1940 1940 1940
65 65 65 65 65 65
NA NA NA NA NA NA
215/75 R15 215/75 R15 215/75 R15 235/70 R16 235/70 R16 235/70 R16
-
-
NA NA 22.3 17.11 17.11 17.11
NA NA NA NA 140.2 11 ✓ 144 10.87 ✓ 144 10.87 ✓ 144 10.87 ✓
SAFARI For: Big. Spacious. Rides well. Mile munching capability. Diesel option. Against: Not efficient. Build. Refinement. Body roll. Verdict: Big, spacious and comfortable, but not nimble. Alternatives: 1. Toyota Innova 2. Mahindra Scorpio 3. Chevrolet Tavera LX DiCOR 2.2 4x2 EX DiCOR 2.2 4x2 EX DiCOR 2.2 4x4 VX DiCOR 2.2 4x2 VX DiCOR 2.2 4x4
136
8.93 10.29 11.16 12.31 13.32
2179/4 2179/4 2179/4 2179/4 2179/4
5 5 5 5 5
320 320 320 320 320
140 140 140 140 140
2170 2170 2170 2170 2170
65 65 65 65 65
981 981 981 981 981
235/70 R16 235/70 R16 235/70 R16 235/70 R16 235/70 R16
-
✓ ✓
15.2 15.2 15.2 15.2 15.2
159.2 159.2 159.2 159.2 159.2
9 9 9 9 9
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
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OVERALL RATING
NA
-
-
-
-
✓ 11.46 181 ✓ 11.46 181 ✓ NA NA
11.7 11.7 NA
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA NA Oct 08
11112 11112 11112
12.7 12.7
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Jun 06 Jun 06
11112 11112
11 11 11 12 12 12 12
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓
- ✓ ✓ ✓ - - ✓ ✓ ✓
NA NA Dec 05 NA NA NA Aug 05
11112 11112 11112 11112 11112 11112 11112
5.92
✓
✓
✓ ✓
July 09
11112
DATE TESTED
ALLOY WHEELS
NA
AIR BAGS
STEREO
POWER WINDOWS
AVERAGE FUEL ECONOMY (IN KMPL)
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM
TRACTION CONTROL
TYRE SIZE
BOOT SPACE (IN LITRES)
FULE TANK CAPACITY (IN LITERS)
KERB WEIGHT OF THE VEHICLE IN KG
MAX POWER (IN PS)
MAX TORQUE (IN Nm)
NO. OF GEARS
CUBIC CAPACITY IN CC/CYLINDERS
MODEL NAME
PRICE (IN LAKH RUPEES)
TATA MOTORS TO TOYOTA
TELECOLINE For: Butch looks. Character.. Against: Wheezy engine. Pricey. Poor interiors. Verdict: An opportunity wasted due to illogical pricing and lifeless interiors. Alternatives: 1. Bolero Camper 2. Scorpio Getaway TL 4x4
8.18
TOYOTA
1948/4
5
186
93
1920
60
NA
205/80 R16
-
-
NA
NA
NA
COROLLA ALTIS For: Good mix of performance, interiors and ride quality. Against: Does not excel in any particular field. Verdict: A potent D-class performer with a Toyota badge. Alternatives: 1. Honda Civic 2. Skoda Octavia 3. VW Jetta 1.8 G 1.8 GL 1.8 VL
12.37 13.90 14.93
1794/4 1794/4 1794/4
5 5 4A
170 132 170 132 170 132
1615 1615 1635
50 430 195/60 R15 50 430 195/60 R15 50 430 195/60 R15
-
CAMRY For: Space. Comfort. Lavish interiors. Loaded with equipment. Slick mechanicals. Against: Size. Not performance oriented. Verdict: Perhaps the most comfortable chauffer driven car in its segment. Could do with a more driver-oriented chassis and suspension. Alternatives: 1. Honda Accord 2. Nissan Teana 3. Skoda Superb W-1 W-2 (AT)
25.47 27.44
2362/4 2362/4
5 5A
224 167 224 167
1545 1545
45 535 215/60 R16 45 535 215/60 R16
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
11.4 201.8 11.4 201.8
INNOVA For: NVH. Refinement. Ride. Handling. Performance. Space. Interiors. Bullet-proof build quality. Against: Hardly anything. Verdict: A very capable machine, tough to fault. power. Can do a little off roading. Alternatives: 1. Chevrolet Tavera 2. Tata Safari 3. Mahindra Scorpio G Petrol 8STR GX Petrol 8STR VX Petrol 8STR E Diesel 8STR G Diesel 8STR GX Diesel 8STR VX Diesel 8STR
9.07 9.94 11.84 8.59 9.85 10.60 12.62
1998/4 1998/4 1998/4 2494/4 2494/4 2494/4 2494/4
5 5 5 5 5 5 5
182 182 182 200 200 200 200
136 136 136 102 102 102 102
1520 1520 1520 1570 1570 1570 1570
55 55 55 55 55 55 55
NA NA NA NA NA NA NA
205/65 R15 205/65 R15 205/65 R15 205/65 R15 205/65 R15 205/65 R15 205/65 R15
-
✓ ✓
13.2 13.2 13.2 17.5 17.5 17.5 17.5
180.5 180.5 180.5 151.2 151.2 151.2 151.2
LAND CRUISER V8 For: Super-luxurious. Smooth, powerful, refined. Against: Poor fuel efficiency, expensive to buy and run, old-hat image. Verdict: If you can afford one, think of it as a Lexus LS for bad roads! Alternatives: 1. Audi Q7 2. Mercedes-Benz ML-class 3. BMW X5 4. VW Touareg V8 VX (ex-pune)
81.64
4461/8
6A
650 286
2720
93 620 285/60 R18
✓
✓
10.71 210
*Conditions apply
Happiness comes on wheels this festive season
For details contact autoloans@tatacapital.com or SMS AUTO to 56070
We only do what’s right for you
CAR India SEPTEMBER 2009
GBU_Sept09.indd 137
137
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✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Aug 08 Aug 08 Aug 08
11111 11111 11111
-
✓ 11.36 202 ✓ 11.36 202
1075 ✓ 10.75 ✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Nov 07 NA
11111 11111
✓
✓
✓ ✓
NA
11111
NA NA NA ✓ 9 211.65 7.625 ✓ NA NA NA ✓
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NA Jan 08 NA
11111 11111 11111
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Apr 08 NA Jan 08
11112 11112 11112
DATE TESTED
OVERALL RATING
AIR BAGS ✓ ✓ ✓
ALLOY WHEELS
POWER WINDOWS ✓ ✓ ✓
STEREO
AVERAGE FUEL ECONOMY (IN KMPL)
TOP SPEED (IN KM/H)
11 16.5 16.5
0-100 KM/H (IN SEC)
✓ 13.53 179.5 ✓ 12.09 182 ✓ 12.09 182
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM
✓
TRACTION CONTROL
TYRE SIZE
BOOT SPACE (IN LITRES)
FULE TANK CAPACITY (IN LITERS)
KERB WEIGHT OF THE VEHICLE IN KG
MAX POWER (IN PS)
MAX TORQUE (IN Nm)
NO. OF GEARS
CUBIC CAPACITY IN CC/CYLINDERS
MODEL NAME
PRICE (IN LAKH RUPEES)
THE GOOD THE BAD & THE UGLY
VOLKSWAGEN JETTA
For: Impeccable build quality, steering response, stability and suspension. Diesel option Against: Slightly pricey. Not too good looking Verdict: Makes tremendous sense for India. Looks could have been better Alternatives: 1. Skoda Laura 2. Honda Civic 3. Toyota Corolla 1.6 Trendline 1.9 TDI Trendline 1.9 TDI Comfortline
14.63 16.01 18.72
1595/4 1896/4 1896/4
5 5 6A
148 102 250 105 250 105
1343 1420 1459
55 527 205/55 R16 55 527 205/55 R16 55 527 205/55 R16
PASSAT For: Ride quality. Well equipped. Against: Pricey. Verdict: Comfortable, well-built luxury car. Alternatives: 1. Skoda Superb 2. Honda Accord V6 3. Toyota Camry 4. Nissan Teana Highline DSG Highline DSG S
24.87 26.92
1968/4 1968/4
6A 6A
320 142 320 142
1476 1476
70 70
NA NA
215/55 R16 215/55 R16
TOUAREG For: Size. Build quality. Comfort Against: Price. Verdict: Ultimate in Volkswagen technology Alternatives: 1. Audi Q7 2. Porsche Cayenne 3. Mercedes ML-Class V6 TDI
VOLVO
50.47
2967/6
6A
500 225
2321 100 555 255/60 R17
✓
✓
NA
NA
NA
S80
For: Build quality. Safety. Against: Fuel efficiency. Brand appeal. Verdict: Good looking, solidly built luxury car. Alternatives: 1. Audi A6 2. BMW 5 series 3. Mercedes-Benz E-class D5 3.2 V8 AWD
45.70 53.04 44.00
2400/5 3192/6 4414/8
6A 6A 6A
400 185 320 238 440 315
1647 1653 1810
70 480 225/50 R17 70 480 225/50 R17 70 480 225/50 R17
-
✓ ✓ ✓
XC90 For: Powerful. Built like a tank. Added safety. Against: Heavy on gas. Dated looks. Verdict: V8 muscle makes it the quickest 0-100 SUV. Alternatives: 1. Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 2. Mercedes-Benz ML-class 3. Porsche Cayenne D5 AWD 3.2 AWD V8 AWD
138
54.26 55.48 62.81
2400/5 3192/6 4414/6
6A 6A 6A
400 185 320 238 440 315
2080 2060 2111
68 483 205/65 R16 80 483 205/65 R16 80 483 205/65 R16
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ 10.94 194.66 6.75 ✓ NA NA NA ✓ 8.17 209.04 4.62
✓ ✓ ✓
CAR India SEPTEMBER 2009
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