Star Attractions of Auto Expo 2016

The 13th Edition of the Auto Expo has been the largest auto event in India, so far. The extravaganza of vehicles out there forced the people to come to a standstill and watch the technological calibre, which the manufacturers from around the world brought in. Amongst all the flashy vehicles, there were cars that were responsible for creating extra stir amongst the crowd, mainly due to their stylish looks, brand appeal and the segment they will be entering in. So, we have compiled a list of such cars that were the center of attraction at the 2016 Auto Expo. Let’s roll down.

Maruti Vitara Brezza

The day when the first teaser came out in the open, Maruti Vitara Brezza created its own list of fan followers. Reasons? It is the first compact SUV from country’s largest automaker. Secondly, it is entering the hottest segment in the country which is populated with names like Ford EcoSport, TUV300 and others. The new Vitara Brezza from Maruti has been planned only to taper the growing popularity of these vehicles.

Despite of being compact, the level of muscularity and stylishness we all were expecting, was seen intact. The car will be available with only 1.3 litre Fiat sourced diesel engine that produces 90PS and 200Nm of torque, mated to 5-speed manual transmission. The vehicle will be launched in March 2016.

Renault Duster Facelift

There is hardly an iota of doubt that this car changed fortunes of the French automaker. Launched in the year 2012, the pathbreaking car of the compact SUV segment desperately needed a major update this time around. And what is the better platform other than this grand event to show the potential of the car. As a popular car among the youth of the country, the new Renault Duster grabbed the eyeballs of the media and public alike.

The major alteration in new Duster was the inclusion of AMT mechanism and a lot of aesthetics upgrades, which will surely help it to counter the growing affection towards Hyundai Creta. The 2016 Duster will remain intact as far as engines are concerned. Prices are yet to be revealed.

Honda BRV

Well, this debut SUV from the Japanese automaker has been one of the most awaited vehicles in India. The car is already home to Thailand and Indonesia markets, while Indian launch was considered indispensable, as it has to belittle the charisma of compact SUVs like Creta and Duster. Honda BRV has been crafted on the Brio platform and takes design cues from Mobilio MPV.

To have an upper edge over the mentioned rivals, the carmaker is bringing this car in both 5&7 seater versions. Speaking about the powertrains, there will be both petrol and diesel engines on offer with former being the 1.5 litre i-VTEC, latter comprises of 1.5 litre i-DTEC mill. These engines are doing quite a good job in other cars of the family and is expected to perform well in BRV too. Launch is expected in coming months.

Toyota Innova Crysta

The Japanese seems to have working on the same philosophy i.e. launch first in South Asian markets and then in India. The next-gen Toyota Innova has been released in both Indonesian and Thailand markets. In India too, it will get different nomenclature dubbed as Innova Crysta.

The car has been a hot favorite amongst the large Indian families and an household name until now. But as every other car needs an upgrade from time to time, the people were yearning for the latest version to put their hands on. The new Innova is being considered a strong comeback with new Global Architecture Platform, fresh exterior styling and all new luxury/gadgetry loaded interiors. A new 2.4 litre diesel engine is also on offer with host of safety features.

Ford Mustang

The day would be a memorable one for the people who saw this iconic car standing on proudly. The pony car was the centerpiece of the Ford’s Hall at the Auto Expo. Ford Mustang has been given timely upgrades to stand shoulder to shoulder to its counterparts. Nevertheless, it’s better than never, the car has finally made its way to the Indian shores.

The car exhibited was the top end GT trim which houses the monster engine inside. The 5.0 litre Ti-VCT V8 makes 435PS and peak torque of 542Nm, and we think its enough to pump the adrenaline. The engine will come paired to 6-speed select-shift automatic transmission with paddle shifters.

SsangYong Tivoli

Mahindra being the largest SUV maker of the country is leaving no stone unturned to keep its dominance in the space. After launching TUV300 in the compact SUV arena, it’s another one from the automaker and this time with Korean seal on it.

SsangYong Tivoli is already running in the overseas markets, so the company might have thought to bring it in India and give other Koreans (Hyundai Creta) and French (Renault Duster), a run for their money. The thought process was right to some extent justified with SsangYong Tivoli being one of the cynosures of Auto Expo. Mechanically, the compact SUV would be powered by 1.6 litre 4 In-line diesel mill working in the version sold in UK. The engine produces 115PS and 300Nm of max torque, while the petrol one will be 1.6 litre unit that generates 128PS and 160Nm max torque. The engines will come mated to either 6-speed automatic or manual transmission.

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