All New Maruti 800 : pictures, info and prices

So, we had been waiting for this for a long time. And in all this confusion, the Cervo became the car that would eventually hit us (Indian shores). However, oncars.in today unwrapped what is actually the all-new Maruti 800 and/or the Maruti Alto replacement for India. And it does look sweet!
The pictures you here suggest enough design cues that hint at the car without camouflage looking more modern than the Alto / 800. Figo type headlamps, i20 type tail lamps and strong design lines - me likey!

Engine specs - well, no news on this but it is certain that Maruti might use the current 800cc engine of the Alto and tweak it and tune it for better performance and less drinking habits,ie, better fuel economy. A 5-speed gearbox would be standard. New Maruti 800 price is expected to start at around the Rs 2.25 lakh mark or so and we should be seeing this in Maruti showrooms in the next 2-3 months. Fingers crossed!

Pictures : oncars.in

2013 Audi A3 : First look and pictures

In 1996, Audi launched the premium compact segment with the A3 - now the third generation of the successful model is ready at the starting line. The new A3, which will debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, is a high-tech car full of innovations in all areas. Versions with hybrid and alternative drive systems such as natural gas and Audi e-gas are currently in development. A version with an exceptionally efficient 1.6 TDI engine will launch on the market in 2012; it consumes just 3.8 liters of diesel/100 km (61.90 US mpg), which is equivalent to 99 g/CO2 (159.33 g/mile).

Audi ultra lightweight technology has helped to trim weight in the body of the appealing three-door car - compared to the previous model, the new A3 is now 80 kg (176.37 lb) lighter. The chassis is tuned for a sporty and agile driving style. The engines are powerful yet highly efficient, the interior offers an ambience of dynamic style. In driver assistance systems and infotainment, the new A3 offers a portfolio of technologies that redefines standards in the segment.

The car's styling visualizes the sporty character of the new A3; it gives the 4.24 meter (13.91 feet) long three-door model a powerful stance on the road. Sharp edges provide the outlines for dynamically curved sheet-metal surfaces. The overall vehicle length was kept identical to the previous model, while the wheelbase grew to 2.60 meters (8.53 feet), and the angle of the C-pillars was made low like that on a coupe. The single-frame radiator grille that is typical of Audi dominates the look of the front end. As an option, Audi can supply headlights in xenon plus technology together with LED daytime running lights; in this case, the taillights are also equipped with LEDs. Later on, full LED headlights will extend the range of features - and will be a first in the compact car segment.

The new Audi A3 will launch with three four-cylinder engines, all of which are essentially new developments. The two TFSI engines and the TDI work with 1.4, 1.8 and 2.0 liters of displacement. Their power levels are 90 kW (122 hp), 132 kW (180 hp) and 110 kW (150 hp). Compared to the previous model, fuel economy of the new A3 was improved by about 12 percent on average - with some engines the savings are even greater.

The new Audi A3 was designed with succinct lines, and its dimensions are compact. Its length of 4,237 mm (13.90 feet) and height of 1,421 mm (4.66 feet) are practically the same as on the previous model. And yet its proportions are sportier: The car's wheelbase grew by 23 mm (0.91 inches) to 2,601 mm (8.53 feet). Its front overhang is now shorter, and its width increased by 12 mm (0.47 inches) to 1,777 mm (5.83 feet).

The new Audi A3 will arrive at dealers in Germany starting in summer 2012. The entry-level version, which will follow around the end of 2012, is listed at a price of 21,600 euros.

2013 Cadillac XTS : first look and pictures

The 2013 Cadillac XTS is the latest addition to the Cadillac luxury sedan lineup and should arrive in US and Canadian showrooms by the spring of 2012. When launched, it will be the most technologically advanced production car in the brand's history.

Larger than the CTS, the new Cadillac XTS delivers the space, elegance and dramatic presence that are Cadillac signatures, but with entirely new and technically advanced methods tuned for a new generation of luxury customers. It also marks the debut of CUE, a comprehensive in-vehicle experience that merges intuitive design with auto industry-first controls and commands for information and media control.

In addition to the CUE interface and connectivity, many other advanced technologies are integral to the new XTS. It will be the only luxury sedan with standard Magnetic Ride Control - the world's fastest-reacting suspension. Advanced technologies that enhance vision and safety surround the driver are available as well.

Positioned directly above the centerpiece CTS family in Cadillac's revamped lineup, the new XTS features a 3.6L direct injection engine and advanced all-wheel drive system, marking a shift to more-efficient performance in a spacious luxury sedan.


Highlights include:

• Advanced Haldex all-wheel-drive system with electronically controlled limited-slip differential
• Magnetic Ride Control, rear air suspension, HiPer Strut front suspension and Brembo brakes - all standard
• Standard 19-inch wheels and available 20-inch wheels
• Direct-injected 3.6L V-6 with lightweight features, including integrated cylinder heads/exhaust manifolds
• Capless fuel tank filler for easier, cleaner refueling
• Folding rear-seat headrests that enhance rear visibility
• Safety Alert Seat that vibrates to alert the driver
• Intervening braking system that lessens or avoids potential collisions
• Short- and long-range radar systems that support:
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Front and Rear Automatic Brakes
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

Horsepower for the Cadillac XTS comes from an advanced 3.6L V-6 that's known by its "LFX" engine code. It is rated at an estimated 300 horsepower (224 kW). Lightweight features help reduce overall weight for greater efficiency and a more favorable front-to-rear weight balance. Examples include a composite intake manifold saves approximately 5.5 pounds (2.5 kg) over the weight of a comparable aluminum intake and an integrated cylinder head/exhaust manifold design that saves approximately 13 pounds (6 kg) per engine.

Smokin Hot - The VW Polo R WRC Street Concept : Engine specs revealed

 (click to enlarge)

The Volkswagen Polo hatchback is a commendable car from the German giant not only for the Indian market, but worldwide too. The car has time and again been pepped up by individuals and companies and the latest comes in the form of the VW Polo R WRC Street Concept! 

No, ofcourse it wont be coming to India but will surely be the example to follow for those looking at modifying their personal Polo! So, why this concept? Well, from motor racing to the street is the motto of the VW Polo R WRC Street concept car. At 2012 Wörthersee, Volkswagen will be presenting for the first time a preview of an extremely sporty small series, which is due to be launched in late 2013. With its highly unique and distinctive design, this model cuts an impressive figure with its rear spoiler, diffuser, sports suspension and an inscription with R-WRC logos. 

Engine Specs
Fuel - Petrol
Type: TSI Motor
Capacity : 2.0-litre
Power: 220PS

Mike Wyckoff's custom Honda Forza - a tribute to Japan

The massive earthquake that stuck Japan and the calamities that followed have shocked the world - the consequences have been drastic - the damage irreparable : mental, financial and physical agony can simply not be replaced or changed. World over, there have been numerous examples of tributes to Japans'resilience post-earthquake and now from the two-wheeled world, we came across Mike Wyckoff's creation on the Honda Forza maxi-scooter.

He has combined the two colors of green and red which means god of wind and god of thunder / lightening respectively - these are often portrayed as demons in pop culture but they are actually two of the earliest gods of Shinto religion. These are sworn to protect Japan and it’s supreme god, the god of the Sun - this, as explained by Mike Wyckoff. These colors are now seen on his custom Honda Forza. Like it? (click to expand any image)

Triumph Daytona 675 Special Edition : Will India get this?

This year's Auto Expo was a fantastic one for motorcycle riders, enthusiasts and fans. Triumph finally announced their plans for India with not one, two or three models but the bloody whole line-up. This also includes the Daytona 675 - without a doubt one of the best mid-size Supersports motorcycles out there in the market. The news is that the machines go on sale in 2-3 months time.
At the same time, recently, Triumph showcased a sexy Special Edition of the Daytona 675 - this one is a Sulphur Yellow version that will come bundled with the following accessories:

1. The fresh and striking new Sulphur Yellow paint scheme
2. Color matched pin stripe rims
3. Carbon fiber front mudguard
4. Carbon fiber instrument surrounds
5. Carbon fiber exhaust heat shield
6. Quickshifter
7. Billet levers

The model is on sale in the US market currently and we can only hope such a version makes it to India - now that will be a cool way to kick off its Indian innings. What say?

2012 TVS Apache launched from Rs 67,505 onwards

The much awaited refreshed Apache RTR is here - and TVS calls the line up the 2012 Apache Series RTR! We first start with the numbers here:
TVS Apache RTR 160 - 15.2 PS power and 118 kmph top speed
TVS Apache RTR 180 - 17.03 PS of power and 124km/h top speed!

Price of 2012 Apache RTR 160 - Rs. 67,505 (Ex showroom Delhi)
Price of 2012 Apache RTR 180 - Rs. 72,090 (Ex showroom Delhi)
Price of 2012 Apache RTR 180 ABS - Rs. 82,780 (Ex showroom Delhi).

The new design, with all lines pulled back, all excesses eliminated and all curves chiseled to perfection, synergizes seamlessly with a high performance powertrain to look dynamic, even when stationary. The new design and styling has been incorporated in all TVS Apache models namely TVS Apache RTR 160, TVS Apache RTR 180 and TVS Apache RTR 180 ABS.

TVS Motor Company said. The new breed of TVS Apache RTRs will shoulder a hallmark, one-of-its kind pilot lamps, inspired by the ‘eye of fury’ - which consists of LED light guide technology combined with new pilot lamps to form a pair of intense animalistic eyes that is activated on ignition, night or day. Chiseled and sharp tank shroudsconstitute a revolutionary new aerodynamic package whichhelps reduceengine heat helping in unbridled top end performance for race enthusiasts and increasing the usable power and crispness of response. The bike sports a sculpted digital console with new muscled styling and race inspired carbon fiber cues. The new nocturnal blue backlit display adds to the design element. Leanerrace designed new aggressively angled seat cowls along with a muscledengine cowl echoing an aerodynamic razored design, brings the new design full-circle, giving the RTR a racier feel. The TVS Apache RTR series has best power-to-weight ratio in its class.

The new TVS Apache RTR 160comes in four dual tone colours, namely green, red. Yellow and grey with black being the base. The new TVS Apache RTR 180 also comes in four colours of white, yellow, grey and black while the ABS version will be available in white and black. The new TVS Apache Series RTR is immediately available in TVS dealerships across the country.

Audi Q3 to be launched in India soon

Audi is all set to launch the baby Q5, the Q3, in the Indian market later this month or early next month. The Q3 is the smallest SUV from Audi and will take on other rivals like the BMW X1 on one hand and the Volvo XC60 on the other.

Audi will initially bring in the 2.0-litre diesel engine and there will only be one trim level to choose from and this will come fully loaded to the brim, making the Q3 one hell of a luxury package! The Q3, unlike the X1, will also come with an all-wheel drive system.
The Q3 is expected to be priced below the Rs 30 lakh range which will eventually make it shattering value for money considering that it has proper space for 5 adults and comes with gizmos seen on the bigger Q5 and Q7 siblings.
To know more about the SUV, visit the Audi Q3 in India page!