Top 5 diesel hatchbacks in India

Maruti Suzuki Ritz and the Ford Figo Diesel








 It's a tough one, so its down to a tie at the top spot between Maruti Suzuki Ritz and the Ford Figo Diesel. Both are strong contenders packing in good value-for-money and we would wholeheartedly recommend these cars as good diesel hatchback buying choices!

Hyundai i20 Diesel

If there is one obvious choice to go for, it's this well-specced Hyundai i20 hatchback. It is more expensive than the competition but you do get a nice hatchback that is hard to go wrong with.

Maruti Suzuki Swift Diesel

The popular choice from the segment is getting a little long in the tooth but is still a solid choice if you're looking for a good family hatchback. If you need something fresher, wait for the new Swift coming this year or the Ritz.

 Volkswagen Polo TDI

It's good looking, very well put together, has a frugal 3-pot Volkswagen TDI engine and best of all, it's German engineering at work.


Tata Indica Vista Diesel



The Fiat-sourced engine and gearbox combination is proven, the space is generous and yes, the new Indica Vista is a huge improvement over the old one. 

Top Cars that Would Rule the Indian Roads in 2012

Mini Cooper

BMW is finally bringing in its subsidiary Mini designed cars into India. The brand Mini has always been associated with a cool image. The manufacturer has already conducted feasibility studies on launching this brand in India and the reports from the same have been very encouraging. The first brand of the Mini that will make an entry into the Indian market is its Cooper hatchback. With its classic design and retro interiors, the Mini Cooper is a visual treat. Add to that a power of 122 Bhp from its 1.6L petrol and diesel engines and an expected price of Rs.12 lacs, the entry of this car into India will be with a lot of impact.

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster

If auto lovers felt that the SLS AMG coupe from Mercedes Benz was a real extreme vehicle, they have just to wait and see what the SLS AMG Roadster can deliver. With its classic design itself a drawing feature, the effect is almost unreal when you see it power down the road reaching 100kmph from transit in just 3.8 seconds. The top speed it achieves is 321kmph justifies the powerful engines that deliver a huge 563Bhp of power and a peak torque of 66.3kg-m. The vehicle however will match its performance with equally high price of Rs.2.4 crore.

Maruti Ertiga

The first attempt that Maruti India, the largest car manufacturer of the country, has made in the MPV segment has given birth to the Maruti Ertiga. The vehicle has been given a sporty styling having huge air inlet and its length of 4.2m along with wheelbase of 2740mm gives it the capacity to seat 7 people comfortably. The popular 1.3L VGT diesel engine used in the SX4 will power this vehicle as well and generate peak power of 95Bhp. Priced in the range of Rs.6 lakh to Rs.9 lacs, the Maruti Ertiga is going to be launched at the Delhi Auto Expo 2012.

New Maruti 800

One of the historically popular cars in India, the Maruti 800 comes in an all-new avatar to challenge the existing budget cars in the Indian auto market – the Hyundai Eon and the Tata Nano. Maruti has kept the manufacturing costs of the car down using its existing platform for Alto to build the new Maruti 800. Its base variant could be priced below Rs.2 lacs, which could definitely give Tata some reasons to get worried. Design of the car has been kept quite basic; however its interiors have been made quite spacious.

Mahindra Mini Xylo

The special excise rebate that the Indian government provides to the small cars has been able to bring out a lot of creativity among Indian engineers. The case that can best illustrate this aspect is the Mini Xylo from Mahindra, which has redesigned its tail to bring down the length of the car below the four-meter mark. It will no longer have three rows of seats but carry most other design elements from the existing Xylo. The best part will be its pricing, which will be in the range between Rs.4 lacs to Rs.5 lacs and this could make the car give a tough challenge to the hatchbacks.

New Hyundai Sonata

Though the present Hyundai Sonata Transform has not been able to identify the pulse of the customers in India and has suffered from low sales figures, Hyundai has put in great efforts on its new car for changing this scenario. This car is known in most markets as i45.

The swoopy lines that the latest Sonata has been provided with have made it among the top designed cars from the stables of Hyundai. The interiors also reflect the same aspect with its cockpit-themed cabin not only looking classy but also providing ample amount of space, particularly at its rear. With its peak variant achieving a power of 198Bhp, the question on its performing ability is also adequately answered. The vehicle is going to be priced in the range of Rs.16 to Rs.18 lacs.

New Honda CR-V

The latest CR-V from Honda has been recently unveiled and its styling is way different from its present variant. The vehicle has been provided with a lot more aggression in its looks. Car handling aspect of this vehicle is going to be substantially improved owing to the completely new platform in which the vehicle has been built. Though the company is yet to announce anything pertaining to the engine, it is speculated that the existing lines will be joined by a new diesel engine. With the word that the new CR-V is going to be locally assembled, price factor is definitely going to take a drop. You can now get the latest Honda CR-V for Rs.20 lacs.

HM Ambassador

The Ambassador is going to be infused with a new lease of life in 2012. Its latest pick-up variant has already been launched in rural markets and Hindustan Motors, like many other auto manufacturers, is now exploring the benefits of bringing out a sub-four meter variant of the Ambassador. This length reduction comes through shortening its humped boot, something that was the trademark of its original version. Improvement to its engine is being planned for enhancing its performance as well as complying with the stringent norms of emission. A CNG variant is also in the offering. Price reduction is also a strong possibility with the new model expected to cost Rs.30,000 lesser. Indeed, it looks like the HM Ambassador is all geared up to extend its innings even further.

Ford EcoSport

The Ford EcoSport has been blessed with all the necessary qualities that can make it a trump card for Ford India. The vehicle that has been coded as B515 comes in the sub 4m segment, hence getting the privileges that small cars receive thanks to the Indian governmental norms. It is being built on the same platform as the Fiesta so it can be expected that the vehicle is going to classy riding and handling. The spare wheel has been mounted on its tailgate because this does not come under the regulations of calculating body length. Upgrade to its engines is expected to rev up the power equation substantially. The Ford EcoSport is expected to compete aggressively in the market with its base model priced around Rs.6 lacs.

Ford Endeavour

The latest Ranger pick-up that has been recently unveiled by Ford Thailand forms the basis of its latest Endeavour SUV that is expected to come to India by late 2012. With its design in similar lines to the global models of Ford, the new Ford Endeavour will be based with a more contemporary look than the present model in the Indian market. Interiors have also been improved further by usage of high quality materials. It could come with the new 2.2L diesel engine that has been given to the Ranger, which has proved adept in delivering high performance and also maintains the desired norms of emission. Six-speed manual as well as auto transmission models look bound for India. However, a price hike on the vehicle seems very likely, which however is being compensated by loading the vehicle with the latest features.

Fiat launches new Punto Sport in India

Fiat launched a limited edition Punto Sport in Pune. The car is powered by the same 1.3 multijet diesel engine in the top of the line Punto. It makes 93PS and 208Nm of torque.

The cars will be available in three colours (red, white and black) and have a neat sports stripe down the side with another matching decal on the hatch displaying the sport decal.

This is topped off with a chrome exhaust tip wrapping up the external changes to the car. Interiors have also received a few sporty touches like metallic pedals, metallic doorsill displaying the Punto logo and red stitching on the seats. The car will be available for Rs 7,58,766 ex-Mumbai.

Available in three colour options of white, red and black, the limited edition gets special side decals, rear and colour coded door mirrors. It also sports chrome door handles and exhaust tip. Interior upgrades include red stitching on seats, leather gear knob and gear cover, aluminium pedals, chrome lining on dash and Punto branded door sills. In addition, it will come with dual stage airbags, ABS with EBD, automatic climate control, integrated Blue & Me infotainment system.

Volkswagen launches Jetta TSI at Rs 13.6 lakh

Volkswagen has launched the petrol variant of the Jetta for a starting price of Rs 13.60 lakh, ex-Delhi. The 1.4-litre engine produces 122PS of power and 200Nm of torque. It is mated to a six-speed manual transmission which drives the front wheels.

Currently the Jetta TSI is being offered in two trim levels – Trendline and Comfortline with the latter priced at Rs 15.07 lakh, ex-Delhi.

In the interiors, the car gets leatherette seat upholstery, leather wrapped gear shift knob, steering wheel and parking brake. There are also rear AC vents for the climatic air-conditioner, a multi-function display and an illuminated glove compartment.

Safety wise the Jetta TSI gets six airbags, ESP, ABS, height adjustable seat belts, hill hold control and engine-transmission guard.

The Jetta 1.4 TSI will be in all Volkswagen showrooms starting from July.

New Chevrolet Cruze comes to India at Rs 13.85 lakh

All new Chevrolet Cruze has raised its own bar with the Next-Gen VCDi engine, unleashing 166 PS and 380 Nm torque.




The new Cruze is claimed to be classy, elegant and comfortable. Once you slip into the plush black leather interiors.




The new Cruze is powered by a 2 litre diesel engine with a 6-speed manual transmission. A thicker, ergonomic rim design helps you manoeuvre with more ease than you could have ever imagined.




The interior revisions will include more cubby holes and two-tone upholstery.




Precisely attuned to maximise the dynamic performance of the Cruze, the 6-speed Automatic Transmission is claimed to deliver superb gearshifts without any loss of power and momentum.




The Cruze offers yet another feature that combines style with convenience. A sleek, no-wire experience for the car audio enthusiast. Just turn your Bluetooth on to get to the beat and the rhythm.




Even when you are alone you will never be lonely. The USB Port allows you to take your digital music with you wherever you go.




Four sensors send ultrasonic waves when the Cruze is driving in reverse, notifying the driver of the rear object's proximity.




There are minor revisions to the exteriors like the new fog lamps, the Chevy badge being pushed a tad higher on the bonnet and choice of new design alloy wheels.

Fastest Cars In India

  Aston Martin's V8 Vantage  




 Aston Martin's V8 Vantage is powered by a 4.7-litre, 32 valve, all alloy engine and produces 430 BHP of power and 490 Nm of torque. Top speed is 305 kmph.


Audi R8 Spyder


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The Audi R8 Spyder is powered by a 5.2-litre V10 FSI engine which produces 525 BHP of power and 530 Nm of torque. 0 - 100 kmph comes up in 4.1 seconds, while top speed is 313 kmph.


 Porsche 911 Turbo S

The Porsche 911 Turbo S is powered by a 3.8-litre engine which produces 530 HP of power and an insane 700 Nm of torque, resulting in a 0-100 kmph time of 3.3 seconds and a top speed of 315 kmph.


 Mercedes-SLS AMG




The SLS AMG is powered by a 6.2-litre V8 engine which produces 562 HP of power and 650 Nm of torque. The SLS AMG reaches 0 - 100 kmph in 3.8 seconds while the top speed is 317 kmph.The seventh fastest car in India.


 Ferrari 458 Italia




The 458 Italia is powered by a 4.5-litre V8 engine which produces 562 HP of power and 540 Nm of torque. 0 - 100 kmph comes up in 3.4 seconds while the top speed is 325 km/h.


Bentley Continental SuperSports


The Bentley Continental SuperSports is the fifth fastest car in India. It is powered by a 630 PS motor which results in a 0 - 100 kmph time of 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 329 kmph.


 Ferrari FF





It is the Ferrari FF, which is powered by a 6.3-litre V12 engine which produces 660 PS of power and 683 Nm of torque. Top speed is 335 kmph.


Lamborghini Aventador




The Lamborghini Aventador is powered by a 6.5-litre V12 engine which produces 690 BHP of power and 690 Nm of torque. 0 - 100 kmph comes up in 2.8 seconds, while top speed is 349 kmph.It ranks third place in India.


Koenigsegg Agera




Koenigsegg Agera, which has a top speed of over 400 kmph. The Agera is powered by a 5-litre bi-turbo V8 engine which produces a massive 1115 BHP. 0 to 100 kmph comes up in 2.9 seconds.


Bugatti Veyron 



 The first car on this list has to be the Bugatti Veyron The Veyron is powered by a insanely huge 8000cc W16 engine which produces 1001 PS of peak power and 1250 Nm of torque. Top speed is 408 kmph.

India’s most fuel efficient petrol cars

India is going diesel these days, car makers and customers too are finding frugal options that can suffice their needs. Does that mean that petrol cars have gone out of fashion? Well, this is not true completely; there are still few petrol cars which continue to impress the customers with their looks, cost and mileage. Have a look at these cars that still continue to top the popularity chart. 


Hyundai Eon


Hyundai’s hatchback, Hyundai Eon, has also managed to be a part of frugal petrol powered cars. The hatchback with fresh design was launched with the ambition of attenuating Maruti Alto sales. Eon has spacious interiors and looks that are far better than its competitors. The car is priced competitively at Rs 2.74 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). What makes it have an edge over its competitors in the A segment is its staggering fuel efficiency of 21.1 kmpl. 



Hyundai i10


Hyundai has given a lot of frugal cars to the Indian car market in the last couple of years which include Hyundai i10 hatchback too. The car is capacious, endows suave looks and is seen a lot on the Indian roads. A part of the B segment, the car offers good features and comes with an affordable price tag too. At ex-showroom price of Rs 4.32 lakh, you can bring this frugal hatchback home that delivers a whopping fuel economy of 20.36 kmpl, which is close to what diesel cars proffer.


Maruti Alto





  A hatchback from Maruti’s clan that makes to the top ten fuel economic cars is Maruti Alto. This wagon has ruled the A segment and the Indian roads too, out of ten cars running on road you will easily find at least 4 Altos among them. This was a replacement of Maruti 800 which managed to woo the customers quite comfortably. One of the most affordable cars in India, Maruti Alto K10 is priced at Rs 3.14 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) for the base version. This offering from the common man’s manufacturer runs 20.2 km/litre.



 Maruti Swift Dzire


Maruti Suzuki India is definitely a winner with maximum number of cars included in the popularity chart. The second car to be mentioned in the list is Maruti Swift Dzire and its new version is garnering tremendous sales every month. This notchback has definitely hit the bull’s eye and helped Maruti push its sales. With a seating capacity of five, the notchback is a perfect car that comes housed with a K-Series VVT petrol engine. At a cost of Rs 4.88 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), you can bring this notchback home that will run 19.1 km/litre.


Maruti A-Star

After Dzire and Alto Maruti’s yet another hatchback that delivers satisfactory mileage in the petrol version is Maruti A-Star. Its contemporary looks and spacious interiors separate it from other cars in its segment. This petrol powered car from Maruti received a facelift recently and now adorns better looks than before. Maruti has priced it aggressively at Rs 3.76 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). Fuel efficiency is yet another high selling point of A-Star which is nearly 19 kmpl.


Chevrolet Beat


Though its diesel version is known for its fuel economy but its petrol version is no less when it comes to fuel efficiency. Launched initially in the petrol version, this hatchback is known for its out of the box looks. With elongated headlights and round tail lamps, the hatch definitely catches the attention of the on lookers. A part of the premium hatchback segment, Chevrolet Beat petrol comes with a price tag of Rs 3.72 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). Fuel efficiency offered by the Beat petrol is 18.6 kmpl, which is quite decent for a petrol powered car.


Maruti Swift



Another Maruti badge car that is known for delivering good fuel economy is Maruti Swift. The aggressively styled and sharp looking hatchback is extremely popular and can be spotted umpteen times on the busy Indian roads. Maruti Swift’s new version that launched last year gave a push to Maruti’s sales substantially. Swift is up for grabs at Rs 4.44 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) and runs approximately 18.6 km/litre.


Maruti Wagon R


The reason why Maruti Suzuki India is called the wizard of small cars in India and common man’s manufacturer is because it offers low priced, frugal hatchbacks that demand scanty maintenance. The list of most frugal petrol cars in India belongs to Maruti without a doubt, as the next car too belongs to Maruti’s stable which is Maruti Wagon R. Maruti Wagon R that carries the tag line ’Smartness is infectious’ is liked by aplenty Indian customers due to its low price of Rs 3.47 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) and an impressive fuel efficiency of 17 kmpl.


Maruti Zen Estilo


We kept the most loved and popular car in India which again belongs to Maruti’s clan for the end because it is said that all is well that ends well. Without giving much strain to your brain you easily got to the conclusion that it is none other than Maruti Zen Estilo which was earlier known as Maruti Zen only. Maruti Zen Estilo is available at Rs 3.37 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) and one can drive up to 16 km/litre.

Ford B Max

Ford introduced B Max, a mini Multi Purpose Vehicle, at the Geneva Motor Show in 2012. Speculation is rife that it will be among the 8 models that the company will bring to India in the near future, though there is no confirmation. This five-seater is highly anticipated in the country as its unique features and fuel efficient engine will make it an excellent competitor to the likes of Toyota Innova, Mahindra Xylo, Maruti Suzuki Ertiga and Hyundai HND7.




Engines & Specifications of Ford B Max

Ford B Max will be available in the market in petrol and diesel variants in order to appease both categories of buyers. The petrol edition will be powered by a small 1 L, 3 cylinder EcoBoost motor that can be tuned to deliver 118 bhp or 98 bhp of power and 170 Nm or 169 Nm of torque. The diesel version of the car is expected to run on a 1.6 L Duratorq TDCi unit. It is anticipated that the manufacturer will offer two types of gearboxes with the car for changing gears – a 5 speed manual and a 6 speed dual clutch automatic transmission system. A Powershift automatic trim may also be launched by the car maker in the domestic market.

Exterior, Interior & Safety Features of Ford B Max


A spacious mini MPV, the B Max shown in the international arena stands a little over 4000 mm, which the company may choose to reduce in order to make full use of the sops provided by the Indian government to small cars. 4059 mm in length, 1549 mm in width and 1600 mm in height, the car will have a small frame. Developed on the platform of Ford Fiesta, the car has a streamlined body with aggressive creases on the side profile and an aggressive rear. It will probably lack B pillar in the middle and should have sliding rear doors for easy entry and exit.


B Max will be appreciated for its interior configuration when launched in the Indian auto market. The manufacturer has been successful in offering ample seating space in the compact frame of this car, making it ideal for a small family residing in the cities. Some of the interior features of this vehicle are air conditioning with climate control, power windows and remote central locking, boot filler and fuel filler. Apart from these, rear wiper, defogger and armrest with cup holder are also present in the vehicle.


The notable interior technologies assimilated by Ford in its B Max include SYNC and MyFordTouch. SYNC is the voice-operated in-car connectivity option of the model, though it is present in the USA and Europe only, as of now. It can integrate mobile devices and music players into the car for unmatched music experience and call local emergency service operators via the Emergency Assist Technology. MyFordTouch is also an in-car entertainment, navigation and phone-integration solution that also offers a customisable instrument cluster.


Ford is expected to integrate a host of features to ensure passenger safety in B Max, including 2 airbags, parking sensors, fog lamp, Antilock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and 3 rear seatbelts.


Expected: End 2012
Price: Rs 9 - 11 lakh