IAB Monthly Retrospect - Tata Kite, Yamaha FZ V2.0, Renault Lodgy, Maruti SX4 S-Cross & Fiat Punto Evo

Here is the first part of our compilation of top automotive developments from last month. Click on the images to jump to the respective article.

1. Yamaha FZ FI V2.0 series

The Yamaha FZ FI V2.0 and and FZ-S FI V2.0 launched in India at a starting price of INR 76,250, ex-showroom Delhi. The new pair has been bestowed with several visual upgrades. The most significant change however comes from the new fuel injected engine which has been downsized marginally. The outputs have been reduced but Yamaha claims performance has improved.

2. Renault Lodgy

The Renault Lodgy would be launched in India in the first half of 2015 and the crossover MPV has started testing in the country. Closely related to the Duster, the Lodgy is expected to derive its powertrain lineup from its SUV sibling. The Lodgy would be gunning for the market share of the Honda Mobilio, Maruti Ertiga, Chevrolet Enjoy and the Toyota Innova.

3. Maruti SX4 S-Cross

The Maruti SX4 S-Cross continues to be spotted testing (recently by IAB reader Mr. Tarun Sharma) ahead of its launch in early 2015. The global compact crossover would be locking horns with the Renault Duster and Nissan Terrano. The SX4 S-Cross would be powered by 1.6-litre petrol and diesel engines, possibly with an optional AWD system.

4. Tata Kite

The Tata Kite (codename) small car test mule emerged on public roads (and was spotted by IAB reader Mr. Subham Ghute) for the first time last month. The Kite is essentially a revamped Indica which would be pitted against the Hyundai Grand i10 and Maruti Celerio. Powertrain details are sketchy as of now but the hatchback would be made alongside the Nano at the company's under-utilized factory in Sanand, Gujarat late next year.

5. Fiat Punto Evo

The Fiat Punto Evo will launch in a few days and we got behind the wheel of the top-of-line Punto Evo Sport 90 HP diesel. The facelifted hatchback gets a reworked exterior and a whole new interior. Its mechanical setup stays untouched.