Maruti Suzuki to convey armada of SUVs to battlefront

NEW DELHI | MUMBAI: Maruti Suzuki is working on a pipeline of SUVs to be launched over the next few years, emboldened by the success of its Vitara Brezza in the quickest growing segment of the nation’s passenger vehicle industry.

The automaker is developing a large SUV, positioned above the compact Vitara Brezza to take on the likes of the Tata Hexa and Mahindra XUV 500, five people aware of the plans told ET. The vehicle is being developed on Suzuki’s Fifth Generation C Platform and is scheduled to go into production in 2020.

Studies are also going on to determine the feasibility of a small SUV, positioned below the Vitara Brezza.

“There are some opportunities developing in that kind of segments,” managing director Kenichi Ayukawa said, in response to a question on product plans.

“We have to study that well,” he said. “We have not taken a final decision yet.”

The Indian consumer’s increasing fascination towards utility vehicles has made it a crucial segment for automakers. Sales of utility vehicles expanded nearly 30 per cent to 7,61,997 units in the financial year ended March 31, outpacing the passenger car segment by a wide margin — car sales grew less than 4 per cent.

At Maruti, a key driver of its double-digit sales growth in fiscal 2017 was the Vitara Brezza. With sales of 1,95,741units, Maruti cornered a 38 per cent share in the entry UV space — with length of 4400 mm or less and priced up to Rs 15 lakh — which accounts for about two-thirds of the utility vehicle market. Vitara Brezza, in fact, sold more than double its nearest competitor, Ford EcoSport.

However, the company does not have any presence in the segments beyond, where volumes grew about 15 per cent last year. For Maruti and Japanese parent Suzuki, for which the Indian unit is a money-spinner, it is a space that can’t be ignored.

Maruti’s move to climb higher up theladder and close gaps in its product portfolio is a continuation of the strategy to retain within its fold the existing buyer base when they choose for upgrades, said Puneet Gupta, associate director at automotive advisory firm IHS-Markit. Maruti’s plan, the people ET spoke to said, is to offer products across the value chain. Part of it is an SUV-styled hatchback, codenamed Y1K, which maymake the entry in 2019 to take on the Renault Kwid. The company is also studying a separate architecture that could spawn out a small SUV and a hatchback.

That project, though, is at a very initial stage and a decision on it is yet to be taken, said one of the people. The SUV being developed on the Fifth Generation C Platform would be the company’s most ambitious attempt in developing a car upwards of the Rs 10 lakh-price segment since the crossover S-Cross and sedan Kizashi, both of which didn’t bring the kind of volume Maruti vehicles have usually seen.

The success of the Vitara Brezza, though, helped it challenge the leadership of Mahindra & Mahindra in the utility vehicle space. At the end of fiscal 2017, the gap between Mahindra and Maruti was just 27,000 vehicles in the segment. Mahindra had a segment share of 29 per cent and even as Maruti captured a fourth of the market in no time.

“Suzuki is betting big on the Indian subsidiary, which drives both sales and profit,” a senior industry executive who did not wish to be named said.

“Maruti Suzuki, in turn, is looking at growing annual sales to 2 million units by 2020. They are not leaving any stone unturned in addressing the requirements of Indian customers.

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New-Gen Renault Duster Spotted Testing In Europe

Renault has been trying the second era Duster for some time now. What's more, from what we listen, Renault will dispatch the second era Duster which has been code-named HJD, in late 2018 or mid 2019. A few reports recommend that the new-gen Duster will be based on the Renault-Nissan's CMF-B stage while a couple of different reports propose that it will keep on using the current B0/Logan stage, but with minor adjustments. Renault may likewise offer the Duster in the B0/Logan stage in creating markets and utilize the CMF-B stage for created markets. The general outline and rundown of elements will stay pretty much comparative. Renault utilizes a comparable procedure for the Kaptur (basically to develop markets) and the Captur (for created markets).

Taking a gander at the covered photographs, one can see that the sheet metal on the hat has some extraordinary cuts and the headlamp groups seem to be somewhat compliment than the ones on the present model. Likewise, the grille appears to convey a couple changes all over. The new-gen Duster will likewise get a couple of amendments to the inside and gets additional components too. The greatest theory as to the new-gen Duster is that it may get a 7-seater form also, alongside the consistent 5-seater adaptation. The 7-seater model may make its introduction in 2019. Obviously, there is no solid confirmation proposing this, with the exception of some scrappy reports. In any case, taking a gander at the way the back windscreen and the quarter glasses have been secured with hallucinogenic cover, the possibility of a 7-seater Duster doesn't sound excessively nonsensical. The Duster gets an enormous boot, which can be utilized to fit in the seats at back.

To the extent motors are concerned, the new-gen Duster may see new 1.6-liter diesel motors being utilized, which will offer a knock in power and be more productive and spotless also. There might be an alternative of a 1.2-liter turbocharged oil motor too.

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The Most Expensive New Car In The World Looks Awkward

Rolls-Royce has assembled an erratic auto outlined extraordinarily for a customer, which is currently being known as the most costly new auto on the planet.

Envision setting off to a tailor who has been sewing bespoke suits for over a century. He takes three years to make your suit and it turns out looking somewhat unbalanced. Be that as it may, it likewise ends up being accounted for as a standout amongst the most costly suits at any point made. This "high fashion" story is of the one they call Rolls-Royce Sweptail.

On request of a particular client, (a respectable man they depict as "An expert and gatherer of unmistakable, erratic things including super-yachts and private flying machine") RR has manufactured a present day 'mentor assembled' Rolls-Royce which depends on the Phantom's DNA. The "man of his word" returned to RR in 2013 and asked for them to make an auto enlivened from the past RR mentor symbols of the 1930s. According to the Telegraph, this auto costs around £10 million, or $12.8 million. This makes an interpretation of generally into – and we seek you're taking a seat after this - Rs 82.6 crore in Indian cash. Mind you however, RR has not uncovered an official figure, or even implied to a gauge.

So a bloke just purchased an auto worth Rs 82.6 crore. Normally, we anticipate that it will be stacked with workmanship from the Louver and innovation from the Martians. Yet, rather, what you get is a merger of the advanced Phantom's front with the Sweptail plan of the mid 1990s. Presently, both of these components are phenomenal to take a gander at exclusively, however the last item won't not satisfy all. Try not to misunderstand me, the all encompassing glass room and the solid front with the streaming back, the wooden insides, the calfskin upholstery all look marvelous, at the same time, similar to we stated, just as individual substances.

The coincidental Rolls-Royce Sweptail is a two-seater car. It gets the notorious Rolls-Royce Pantheon grille yet this one is made out of a solitary aluminum piece – and by hand, since why not? – until it got a mirror complete and after that given a brushed aluminum look. This grille is the biggest unit fitted to any cutting edge time Rolls. The Sweptail even has a body under-wrap which has no noticeable limit to the surface. This was done to emulate the structure of a yacht. The Sweptail additionally has its enrollment number "08" mounted on it with the two individual digits being processed from ingots of aluminum and hand-cleaned to run with the balance of the auto.

One of the key components of the auto's outline remains the all encompassing glass rooftop – the 'biggest and most mind boggling' ever fitted on an auto. The edge of this glass is made out of cleaned aluminum rails which stretch out to the finish of the tail of the auto.

Inside, you will discover finished Macassar Ebony and open-pore Paldao, which are diverse sorts of costly woods. Furthermore, to run with this design the auto has light Moccasin and Dark Spice cowhides on the seats, armrests and dashboard best. Since the Sweptail is a two-seater, the back range gets... you got it, wood, and it houses a cap rack. The auto likewise gets an arrangement of portable workstation folder case in the entryways and, clearly, a champagne holder with two precious stone champagne woodwinds.

So there you have it, supposedly the world's most costly new auto now resting securely in the carport of its proprietor. And keeping in mind that he takes it out on a Sunday for a short drive making the most of his champagne, you observe the video beneath and choose whether it fulfills you feel or pitiful.

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Mercedes Benz Eclass 2017 E 350 LWB Diesel Exterior

The E-Class is an enormously imperative auto for Mercedes-Benz in India. Since the organization set up shop in 1999, it has sold around one lakh autos in our market. Of those, 34,000 have been the E-Class. Naturally, there's a great deal riding on the new one, and this time around Mercedes-Benz is accomplishing something it's never done – offering India the long-wheelbase show. The choice bodes well given that autos at this value point or more are principally escort driver. We're in Goa for the principal drive to check whether the new auto legitimizes its possibly higher sticker price.

Outline and style

You've presumably observed the photos at this point and realize that this auto wears a similar plan dialect as the C-and S-Class. I generally imagined that the vast S-Class conveys its plan more richly than the C and the same applies to the new E. In advance, nonetheless, it's very difficult to recognize the E from the C, unless you can detect the distinctions in the grille shape and outline. The full-LED headlamps additionally marginally contrast fit as a fiddle and DRL format. Still, most won't have the capacity to disclose to them separated. Being the long-wheelbase display, the new E is more than 5m long and this adds to the feeling of nearness and power. The back slants in a comparative design to both its kin, and the tail lights additionally help more to remember the C than the S. In general, the E cuts a good looking, exquisite yet very natural shape.

The lodge is immaculate class. Like the outside, the dash is propelled by its kin however inside it's more similar to the S-Class. The layered dash has excellent streaming lines and houses a monstrous 12.3-inch high-res show that sits appropriate beside the instrument group. The infotainment framework is instinctive and simple to utilize through the multi-touch controller on the middle reassure. A sharp plan highlight sees the dash shape an unobtrusive crest over focus show and instrument bunch, making them simple to peruse in solid daylight

Dissimilar to the completely advanced dials accessible in the universal E-Class, the India-spec auto utilizes two simple gages flanking a full-shading MID. The E350d highlights a brilliant open pore dark fiery debris wood trim around the dash and entryway cushions. The round air vents offer a similar decision of engaged or diffused wind current as the S-Class. There's a huge all encompassing sunroof and a fresh 13-speaker Burmester sound framework. The controlling wheel now highlights two instinctive touch-delicate catches that assistance look through the menus on the MID and primary screen.

That dashboard is appropriate sight to behold, yet the new E-Class is about the rearward sitting arrangement. The long-wheelbase auto is 205mm longer than the past gen E-Class and that outcomes in staggering back space. Indeed, even with a tall driver, the back traveler will actually have the capacity to relax. The E can situate five however a tall transmission burrow renders the auto best for four. Both back travelers will be spoilt with a liberal 34 degrees of customizable seat lean back and singular controls for the back windows and blinds on both sides and additionally control over the sunroof and back windscreen dazzle. The seats are expansive and steady, and the back headrests are as delicate as putting your head on a cloud.

It's anything but difficult to get hushed into supposing you're now at S-Class extravagance yet a few elements like four-zone atmosphere control, raise situate stimulation (the E gets three) and a back rub capacity are put something aside for the summit show. Delicate close entryways are missed as well as the E needs somewhat more compel than anticipated to close the entryways and boot. The 540-liter boot broadens well into the body and is very voluminous however not profound. The space-saver tire strapped to the boot consumes space, yet there is still tolerable gear conveying limit.

Motor and execution

The new E-Class will be propelled with two motors – a 2.0-liter turbo petroleum and a 3.0-liter V6 turbo diesel. We're driving the last mentioned and it's essentially a similar motor from the S350d which produces 258PS and a strong 620Nm of torque. The engine is nicely refined however not the calmest in class and gets very capable of being heard under load. A 9-speed auto is standard on the new E and it suits the auto great with lovely smoothness and fast reactions. 0-100kmph takes an asserted 6.6s and top speed is 250kmph. The auto has five drive modes – Eco, Comfort, Sport, Sport + and Individual. Not surprisingly, these modes modify criteria like motor reaction, adapt position, controlling weight and suspension set-up. I found the E most joyful in Comfort mode with a light guiding feel and a lot of torque on tap for easy surpasses. The Sport mode hurries and firm things up, however by one means or another it doesn't feel right driving the E forcefully, despite the fact that the auto is amusement. Rather, it is most joyful at an enduring fast journey where the motor is very quieted and the inhabitants are comfortable in the extravagant, confined lodge.

Ride and dealing with

This is the first run through a Mercedes-Benz E-Class comes to India with air suspension, in 350d trim, and the auto unquestionably benefits. Ride quality on great streets is almost enchantment cover smooth. The suspension proficiently resolves any minor undulations or unpleasantness, and solace levels are amazing. In any case, as with every single European auto that are generally intended for good streets, the E doesn't totally douse further and harsher knocks and also we'd like. There's a touch of commotion and some crashing on poor or broken streets. To be reasonable, this is a conduct seen with most extravagance autos and the air-sprung E rides superior to anything numerous comparative machines, however it's as yet not great.

Ground leeway is very liberal and the air suspension additionally gives you the decision to raise the suspension to manage additional awful speed breakers. Gratefully, Mercedes is putting forth the new E with 17-inch wheels, a sensible decision for our street conditions. The tires are run-pads however don't appear to bring about any huge bargains in ride comfort.

The suspension has a delicateness to it that never leaves, even in the firmest Sport + setting. Taking care of is certainly enhanced over the past model and is very competent. In any case, the emphasis is on dependability as opposed to heartbeat raising reactions. I like this – it gives the E-Class an unmistakable feeling of reason as opposed to attempting to be a handyman. At last, this is a long way from the most driver-centered auto in its section, yet it unquestionably is the new benchmark as far as sheer traveler comfort.

Conclusion

The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class is an altogether noteworthy auto. It won't simply support the notoriety of the E-Class mark, yet will most likely take it higher than ever. With this emphasis, the E-Class has drawn nearer to the S than at any other time and it may even eat into its greater sibling's deals a tad bit. Mercedes isn't excessively stressed however as the conventional S-Class clients are very evident about what they need.

The choice to get it as a long-wheelbase model is an overcome one since it will positively raise the cost by a reasonable edge, I figure by around 10 to 15 for each penny. Exactly how much will be clear when the auto dispatches on February 28, 2017. At last, the length of Mercedes-Benz is sensible with the valuing, this auto is bound for extensive achievement.

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2017 Nissan Micra With New Features Launched In India; Priced At ₹ 5.99 Lakh

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    The 2017 Nissan Micra with new features has been launched in India with prices starting at ₹ 5.99 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). Not be confused with the new generation Micra that is now on sale internationally, Nissan India continues to sell the current generation model in the country and the update is the automaker's tryst to keep the model relevant amidst a host of offerings in the segment. More so, since the fifth generation Micra won't be hitting the Indian markets anytime soon. The MY2017 Nissan Micra gets automatic headlamps with follow-me function, along with rain sensing wipers and sporty orange accents added to the cabin. There are no changes to the styling on the hatchback, which remains the same since the facelifted version arrived in 2013. Engine options on the Nissan Micra get no changes either with power coming from the 1.2-litre petrol motor churning 73 bhp and 104 Nm of peak torque, while there is also the 1.5-litre diesel that belts out 63 bhp and 160 Nm of peak torque. Both power mills are paired to a 5-speed manual transmission, while the petrol continues to get the CVT X-Tronic automatic transmission. The Nissan Micra competes with the likes of the Hyundai Grand i10, Maruti Suzuki Swift and the likes in the segment. The hatchback's price range starts from ₹ 5.99 lakh, going to up to ₹ 7.23 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). The fifth generation Nissan Micra made its international debut at the Paris Motor Show last year and is a major leap over the current model. Not only does it look more stunning and futuristic in design, but packs in more features and better powertrain as well. Given the cost escalations of producing the new Micra, manufacturing of the new generation of the hatchback was moved to Europe from India and that is one of the reasons why we won't be getting the model anytime soon. We've exclusively driven the new generation Micra and yes, India has certainly missed a good car.

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2017 Ducati Monster 797 First Ride Review

Ducati cruisers exemplify energy, exactness, control and everything in the middle. So when Ducati welcomed us to Thailand to test the new Monster 797, it was an open door which pleased us forever. As Ducati's entrance level Monster, the 797 backpedals to the rudiments with no favor tech wizardry like various riding modes or footing control. Rather, the attention is on the bicycle and its rider. While our test ride was brief, kid, we positively got a decent inspecting of what the new child Monster offers.

Ducati Monster 797 is ravishing and repeats the styling from the first Monster

The Ducati Monster typifies an immortal style started by planner Miguel Galluzi in 1992. A quarter century and numerous cycles later, the all-new Monster 797 figures out how to adhere to its underlying foundations and solidly so. Moderation outweighs everything else on the 797 like its ancestors and the bicycle looks new regardless of the recognizable styling from the first Monster 900.

A tubular steel Trellis outline holds up the motor on the Monster 797

The headlamp and steel fuel tank are specifically imparted to the Monster 1200, while there is the new aluminum twofold sided swingarm and tubular steel Trellis outline holding up the L-twin motor. As reverence to the first M900, an outer fuel tank bolt is currently put quite recently under the start like the first, which gives better access to the air channel and motor.

We would've loved LED markers to run with the Monster 797

The 797 looks significantly more conservative than the greater Monsters and a slight bit littler than its antecedent, the Monster 796. Quality levels are amazing, however you do see a couple of weaknesses; LED pointers would've looked pleasant, while the shotgun depletes are missed as is the substantial fumes note from the 821.

The instrument support is Ducati Multimedia System prepared

The LCD unit from the greater Monsters has been continued and is Ducati Multimedia System (DMS) prepared, with a USB port under the seat that enables you to associate your cell phone to the framework, showing calls, messages and route on-screen.

Swing a leg over the Monster and it's anything but difficult to overlook you are situated on a "major" cruiser. At 193 kg, it isn't precisely light, however the weight has been dispersed uniformly and totally vanishes once on the seat. At 805 mm, the seat will effortlessly oblige riders of all sizes, yet there is additionally the choice to bring down the tallness by 20 mm. The handlebars are front set for simple reach, while the foot pegs are forward slanted for a more casual yet forceful riding stance. Ducati's new age clients won't be quite recently young fellows however a mess of ladies as well, and the 797 is inviting to a more extensive gathering of people.

Around 80% of torque is accessible ideal from 3500 rpm on the Monster 797

At the focal point of the Monster 797's identity is fun, and the 803 cc L-Twin air-cooled motor deals with that. It has a drag and stroke of 88 x 66 mm, same as the Scrambler (additionally the more seasoned 796). Be that as it may, the 797 gets an alternate motor mapping. The engine produces 74 bhp at 8250 rpm and 69 Nm of torque at 5750 rpm. A shoe grip guarantees the grasp is light when moving through the 6-speed transmission. Just about 80 for each penny of torque is accessible from around 3500 rpm, so and you can without much of a stretch stammer around town with insignificant contribution from the throttle. In any case, bend your correct wrist and the cruiser pulls neatly.

The 797 has a less rake and trail than its more established kin - Monster 821

Control conveyance is snappy, yet direct, and won't threaten a tenderfoot rider. There is sufficient snort from the engine for snappy overwhelms. The 797 is a decent 35 stallions down on control over the Monster 821 (Which now sits as Ducati's middleweight contender), however repays with a solid base and mid-go. Amid our short ride, we didn't get an opportunity to truly investigate the Monster 797's top-end, yet it's something we'll anticipate once we get our hands on it for a full street test.

The Monster 797 is gone for new motorcyclists, moving up to a major bicycle

The Ducati Monster 797's solidly sprung suspension makes for a firm ride quality. The KYB USD front forks and Sachs monoshock raise ate little undulations easily amid our test, yet may not be as agreeable over the sort of territory we experience on an ordinary premise here in India. While it is flexible, we will reveal to you how that suspension holds up here once the bicycle arrives. The wheelbase at only 1435 mm, is the littlest ever on a Monster, and helps the bicycle's flick-capable nature. Match that splendid casing to the phenomenal Pirelli Diablo Rosso II tires and the twisties will be a great deal of fun.

The braking setup from Brembo is imparted to the 959 Panigale

Conveying things to an end, the 797's double Brembo four-pot calipers grasp the 320 mm front circles well. The braking setup is the same as the 959 Panigale, and is certainty moving. There is double channel ABS as standard, which is continually consoling to have. All things considered, there's none of Ducati's favor wellbeing helps here, and this may engage the old school motorcyclists.

The Ducati Monster 797 is a head turner, a few times over

The general purpose of bringing the Ducati Monster 797 is openness and it truly acquaints purchasers with the 'huge Red' family. The Monster looks more customary as a feisty stripped and there is a higher allure remainder also. The 797 goes on special in India in the not so distant future conveying a sticker price of ₹ 7.82 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). At that value the Monster 797 is a smidgen costly than the opponents in this portion, which incorporate the up and coming Triumph Street Triple and the all the more effective Kawasaki Z900. Be that as it may, the Monster is a symbol of a quarter century, and the 797 is the most helpful approach to get a cut of that inheritance

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Audi Q2

About Audi Q2 

Audi Q2, the littlest hybrid SUV in Audi's Q arrangement will be situated beneath the mainstream Q3 demonstrate in India. Reviewed at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show, Audi Q2 is gone for the more youthful group of onlookers. It has a strong position and games new styling fundamental that 'shows an autonomous character inside Q family'. The up and coming Q2 was recently exhibited at the Bogota Motor Show in Colombia and is slated to dispatch in India in 2017. 

Audi Q2 Preview 

Audi Q2 will be the new expansion to the famous Q arrangement in Audi India's portfolio. The section level SUV is based on a contemporary outline dialect with key styling inputs strengthening the tense look. It will likewise get a well-laid out lodge with Audi's virtual cockpit and a variety of gear including a touchpad, cell phone interface and so on. The worldwide model will get numerous motor alternatives instead of the India-spec demonstrate that will get an oil unit and an oil burner. 

Audi Q2 Exterior 

Dimensionally, it gauges 4.19 meters in length, 1.79 meters wide and 1.51 meters high. The modish outline precept enhances the visual appearance which is additionally reinforced by the single-edge octagonal grille in front, vast air-admissions, long rooftop spoiler and a diffuser. The low rooftop converges into the C-columns and sunken flanks converge in the entryway zone. 

Audi Q2 Interior 

Wheelbase measuring 2.60 meters involves agreeable space inside the lodge. In accordance with the outside, the lodge gets an energetic treatment. The gear storage room is sufficient at 405 liters which can further be extended to 1050 liters. It likewise gets discretionary backdrop illumination, control back end and a three-way split back seat backrest with payload through-stacking. Furnished to the gill, the new Audi Q2 packs a touchpad, Audi's virtual cockpit, head-up show, Bang and Olufsen sound framework and cell phone interface. Other tech outfitted for driver's help incorporate Audi pre sense front with person on foot discovery, Adaptive voyage control with Stop&Go and Traffic Jam Assist, Audi Active Lane Assist, cross-movement help back and crisis help. 

Audi Q2 Engine determination and Transmission 

The India-spec Audi Q2 will get two motor decisions. The oil variations will get control from the 1.0 liter TFSI petroleum motor putting out most extreme energy of 114bhp, though the 2.0 liter, oil burner will deliver control in two conditions of tune. Both the motors will be matched to the seven-speed S tronic transmission. 

Audi Q2 Competition 

The reasonably evaluated, passage level hybrid SUV space is picking up footing in India. Considering the rising interest for premium SUVs the portion will soon swell in size with dispatch of new models in the coming years. With respect to the all new Audi Q2, it will be hollowed against as of late propelled Hyundai Tucson and the up and coming section level Jeep C-SUV. 

Audi Q2 Expected Price in India 

The new passage level hybrid SUV in Audi's scope of SUVs will convey a moderate cost. As recommended over, the SUV will be situated beneath Q3 in the line-up and henceforth will be evaluated under Rs 25 lakh. All things considered, the Audi Q2 cost is relied upon to fall in the section of Rs 20 lakh to Rs 25 lakh. 

Audi Q2 Expected Launch 

The new passage level model in Audi's Q range will be situated underneath Q3 and is relied upon to dispatch in India at some point in 2017.

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2017 Aprilia Shiver 900 And Dorsuduro 900 Launched In India

2017 Aprilia Dorsuduro 900 offers its underpinnings with the Shiver 900 

While the Shiver is an all-new brand for India, Aprilia as of now offers the Dorsuduro 1200 in the nation and the 900 is a more moderate form of the double reason bike. The Dorsuduro 900 offers an indistinguishable equipment from the Shiver 900 including different riding modes. 

Having the same underpinnings, the bicycles utilize a 896 cc V-Twin motor tuned to create 95.2 bhp of energy and 8750 rpm and 90 Nm of pinnacle torque at 6500 rpm. The engine comes combined to a 6-speed transmission. What's more, both bicycles are likewise outfitted with the lighter Kayaba USD front forks and lighter three-spoked edges, while the back games a monoshock suspension setup. 

Talking on the dispatch of the all-new superbikes, the Piaggio India - CEO and Managing Director, Stefano Pelle stated, "It is our steady exertion at Piaggio Group to make the Aprilia mark more open to the benefactors in the nation, with these superbikes-the Aprilia Shiver and Dorsoduro-we plan to speak to the Aprilia aficionado." He additionally included, "These superbikes mirror the dashing legacy of the brand and the riding background is unmatched by some other item in the comparative class."

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Made-in-India Jeep Compass to take off tomorrow

Jeep is all set to roll out its first 'Made in India' model, the Compass SUV, tomorrow from Fiat’s Ranjangaon plant in Maharashtra. This facility will be the mother plant for all right-hand-drive versions of the Compass SUV to be sold in India and in many international markets like Japan and the UK to name a few. Fiat and Jeep are betting big on this model and have invested around US$ 280 million for the production of the Compass.  Interestingly, around 70 percent of the SUV, including the engines, are manufactured locally. Panel stamping isn’t done in-house yet, but the doors are laser-welded – a first in India. 

The Compass will be available globally in as many as 17 engine, gearbox and drivetrain configurations and some of them will be manufactured in India for the international markets. Built on the same platform as the Renegade (small, wide 4x4), the Compass, however, features a longer wheelbase for greater space on the inside and a mildly altered suspension system. 

The Compass will be sold in India with two engine options. First up, there is a 2.0-litre MultiJet diesel good for 170hp and 350Nm of torque. This engine will be available in both 4x2 and 4x4 http://cdni.autocarindia.com/Utils/ImageResizerWM.ashx?n=http%3a%2f%2fcdni.autocarindia.com%2fExtraImages%2f20170531105329_COMPYx.jpg&w=355configurations. The sole gearbox on offer with this engine will be a six-speed manual unit. There will be no automatic transmission on offer, at least initially. However, there is a chance of a nine-speed automatic gearbox at a later stage. The second engine on offer is the 1.4-litre MultiAir petrol. This 1.4-litre motor churns out around 160hp and, like the diesel variant, will be available with 4x2 and 4x4 option. Transmission choices include a six-speed manual and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. 

Higher variants of the Compass will come with a 7.0-inch Uconnect infotainment system; this system will come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Sources tell us that Jeep has not compromised in the interior quality of the Compass sold in India and the models will have exactly the same levels of fit and finish as the ones that will be exported. Jeep will offer the Compass with as many as six airbags.

There will be additional safety features on offer like a reverse camera with sensors, along with the usual safety equipment like ABS, ESP, electronic roll-over mitigation and hill-start assist. The biggest advantage of heavy localisation, however, is that Jeep can offer a competitive price. The Compass is expected to be priced between Rs 18 lakh and Rs 25 lakh when it hits showrooms in the coming months. 

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India-bound 2017 Toyota Camry uncovered

Months after revealing the Camry for the North American markets, Toyota has now revealed the car bound for the ASEAN markets. Interestingly, unlike its predecessor, the latest Camry seems to have been based on a global design, with the India-bound car closely mirroring the aggressive styling of its North American sibling.

Changes in design are minor, with the ASEAN-spec car getting fog lamps set low in the front bumper along with the headlamps losing the amber section along the outside edges up front. At the rear, the new India-bound car gets a more staid bumper, unlike its US-market sibling with its diffuser element and faux slit-like air vents merging into the tail-lamps.

The cabin too is near identical and comes with a V-shaped upper centre console, a large touchscreen infotainment system and a colour display in the instrument cluster. The biggest change in the ASEAN-spec car is its right-hand-drive configuration.

While the US-spec car is offered with a choice of four- and six-cylinder petrol engines alongside a hybrid powertrain, specs for the ASEAN model are yet to be revealed. However, as per the blue halo around the badge, a hybrid powertrain will be offered.

Toyota also revealed a sportier-looking TRD model with prominent sill extensions, a front splitter element, LED lights along the lower bumper edge, a blacked-out element under the V-shaped grille and sportier alloy wheels.

Toyota is expected to launch the all-new Camry in the ASEAN markets towards the latter half of the year.

In India, Toyota recently updated the Camry Hybrid with new and updated safety systems along with added equipment. As with the current model, Toyota is likely to assemble the new Camry in India, with the car likely making its India debut around the Auto Expo early next year. The new Camry will rival the likes of the Honda Accord Hybrid, Skoda Superb and the soon-to-launch Volkswagen Passat

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