List of 12 new car launches until March 2016 - IAB Picks [Updated]
The Auto Expo 2016 brought many new products to the Indian automotive industry, which were unveiled to give customers an insight as to what they can expect in the foreseeable future. A few of the highly anticipated products are expected to launch between February and March, which have been listed below.
1. Mahindra Quanto facelift (Mahindra Canto)
Update - The Quanto facelift will be named 'Mahindra NuvoSport'.
The sub-4m Quanto will finally be getting a major facelift as well as a new name, which is expected to launch before the end of this financial year. It will feature a more-rugged design, reportedly pack a new mHawk 80 diesel engine and offer a 5-speed AMT option.
2. Maruti Vitara Brezza
Update - According to a report, the Vitara Brezza will launch on March 21, though a price announcement will be made on March 8.
The Vitara Brezza is one of Maruti's most important models in its history, as it's the first product developed solely by MSIL's engineering team. It's also the first compact, budget-oriented family SUV from India's largest car manufacturer, which is expected to launch towards the end of March 2016.
3. Mercedes E Class Edition E
The Mercedes E Class Edition E (launch on February 24) will be the last hurrah of the current generation Mercedes E Class, before the latest generation (codename W213) makes its Indian debut. The E Class Edition E is likely to feature an AMG body kit as standard, which includes redesigned front and rear bumpers, side skirts, larger AMG alloys with black accents, headlamps with smoked treatment and Edition E badges.
Update - Now launched.
4. Mini Cooper S Convertible
The Mini Cooper's topless cousin, the Mini Cooper Convertible, will launch in its third generation on March 16. It will only be available in the Cooper S variant, which packs a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine capable of 189 hp and 280 Nm of torque. A 6-speed automatic gearbox is the only choice for India.
5. Renault Duster facelift with AMT
Following its unveil at the Auto Expo 2016, the new Renault Duster will go on sale in India towards the end of March. This is the first major facelift for the Duster in India, which introduces an Easy-R AMT gearbox as an option in the 110 PS variant.
Update - Now launched.
6. 2016 Skoda Superb
Although Skoda India gave the Auto Expo 2016 a miss, they are prepping to launch the third generation Skoda Superb flagship in India on February 23. It will be based on the MQB platform, step up the luxury quotient and feature an all new styling influenced by Skoda's latest design language.
Update - Now launched.
7. Tata Tiago
Update - The launch is scheduled for March 28.
Given that the Zica name had to be changed due to this reason, the launch of the Tata Tiago did not take place as expected at the Auto Expo 2016. New reports suggest that the Tiago will go on sale with a new name before the end of March 2016.
8. Toyota Etios Cross Dynamique
The Dynamique edition of the Toyota Etios Cross was leaked in a brochure scan. It gets black accents on the roof rails, ORVMs and door handles, a ‘Dynamique’ badge on the C-Pillar, and rear parking sensors. It is available in two exterior colors: Inferno Orange and White exterior color options. The launch is expected anytime now.
9. Honda Amaze facelift:
The Honda Amaze facelift will have its launch on March 3, 2016. The updated compact sedan with new interior and revised exterior has already started arriving at dealerships.
Update - Now launched.
10. Mercedes-Maybach S600 Guard:
Mercedes-Benz India will launch the Mercedes-Maybach S600 Guard with VR10 ballistics protection level on March 8, 2016. The armored Maybach edition was showcased at the Auto Expo 2016.
11. Volvo S60 Cross Country:
The S60 Cross Country will be introduced on March 11 according to reports. It will come with increased ground clearance, an AWD system and a 2.4-liter five-cylinder diesel engine.
12. Mercedes S Class S400:
According to reports, the Mercedes S Class S400 will launch towards the end of this month. It will be powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 petrol engine driving the rear wheels.