Fiat India Launches Grande Punto 90HP MULTIJET Hatchback

With high power comes the true driving experience. Keeping in mind this very thought, Fiat India today unveiled its latest offering in the premium hatchback segment: the Fiat Grande Punto 90HP MULTIJET. Armed with a 1.3 litre Multijet engine, powered by a Variable Geometry Turbocharger, the car will be India’s most powerful diesel hatchback.


Already setting the standard with its gorgeous looks and style, the Grande Punto 90 HP is poised to power through the competition and create a new benchmark for diesel hatchbacks in India. The Punto 90 HP MULTIJET’s engine will provide drivers with ‘class leading’ power of 93 PS and torque of 209 NM along with excellent drive dynamics – Ride, Handling, Braking and also superior fuel efficiency of 20km / l. The 1.3 litre Multijet engine, a validation of Fiat’s technological prowess, is also the only ‘locally produced’ Variable Geometry Diesel engine in this category.

To make the driving experience even more fun, the Grande Punto 90HP comes equipped with Dual Stage Airbags, ABS with EBD, Automatic Climate Control, Blue & Me technology, Integrated CD/MP3 player with USB, Alloy wheels with the widest tyres (in the category), Chrome plated door handles, swanky Red stitching on the seats, and a host of other exciting and new age features.

Customers will also have a choice of personalisation through a special accessory pack for the Punto 90 HP that includes a Rear Spoiler, Chrome Exhaust Tip, Stylish Body Decals, Sporty Aluminium Pedals, Leather Seat Covers & Punto branded Door Sill. This accessory pack shall provide discerning customers a ‘sporty feel’, along with the opportunity to stand out in the crowd.

The car will be priced at Rs 6.79 lakhs (ex-showroom Delhi).

The Grande Punto 90 HP, delivering 93 PS of power, will be positioned within the ‘performance diesel’ segment and will compete with existing and future brands in this segment

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Rajeev Kapoor, President& CEO, Fiat India said. “The launch of the Grande Punto 90 HP MULTIJET is testament to Fiat’s commitment to innovation and consumer satisfaction. Through this new variant, discerning consumers will be given the perfect opportunity to enjoy both ‘high power’ and a ‘fun to drive’ experience. The Grande Punto 90HP MULTIJET will aim to consolidate our position within the ‘performance diesel’ segment which has been relatively untapped unto now. We are confident the Grande Punto 90 HP MULTIJET will mark a new chapter of power driving in the premium hatchback segment.”

The Grande Punto 90 HP MULTJET will be available in 5 electrifying colors: Bossa Nova White, Exotica Red, Medium Grey, Fox Trot Azure and Tuscan Wine. The car will be aggressively priced at:

GRANDE PUNTO 90 HP MULTIJET PRICE: Rs.679,000 Delhi (ex-showroom)

The Fiat Grande Punto, since its launch last year, has taken the market by storm with its beautiful design and impressive styling. With its design being attributed to Mr. Giorgetto Giugiaro – the ‘car designer of the century’, the car has won numerous accolades in the Indian auto sector, the latest being

• Car of the Year Award 2009 for Premium Hatchback - ET Zigwheels.
• Car with the Best Styling & Design by UTV Autocar Awards - 2010.
• The Most Beautiful Car of the year by BBC Top Gear -2009

The car’s sleek and aggressive looks have made many a head turn and many a jaw drop. With both critics and buyers taking dearly to this vehicle, the Grande Punto has made a sizeable mark in the Indian auto scenario. The new Grande Punto 90 HP MULTIJET along with the existing Fiat models are available through 175 TATA-FIAT dealers across 130 cities and can be booked from 18th July 2010 onwards.

Fiat now expands the Grande Punto range to 10 variants with a choice of 1.2 & 1.4 litre FIRE engines in Petrol and 1.3 litre MultiJet (76 HP) & (93 HP) engines in Diesel, thus offering ‘a Punto for everyone’.

With the promise of superior power and fuel efficiency, the Fiat Grande Punto 90HP MULTIJET is all set to light the Indian roads on fire thus assuring yet another significant step taken by Fiat in India

Courtesy: Fiat India Automobiles Ltd

Mercedes-Benz launches SLS AMG in India for Rs. 2.5 crores

Mercedes-Benz today launched its flagship super sports car for the Indian market: the SLS AMG. The statement from the global CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, Mr. Ola Kaellenius, encapsulated his aspirations for the product, “Today India joins the elite ranks of the first few RHD markets globally to launch this mean machine. Given the strong demand for this car, I assure you that it is really a very strong and positive statement and shows the esteem that India as a market holds for us.”

The SLS AMG has captivated people all across the world with its purist design, intelligent lightweight construction and superior handling dynamics. It is the first independently developed vehicle by AMG in its illustrious history spanning over 40 years. It not only takes AMG, the performance brand within Mercedes-Benz Cars, into a new era, but also demonstrates development expertise of the very highest order.

Dr. Wilfried Aulbur, Managing Director and CEO of Mercedes-Benz India commented: “The SLS AMG represents the true spirit of our brand- ‘The Best or Nothing’! It embodies passion, performance, design, technology and engineering excellence- values that make us one of the most exciting brands in the world, today.”

The innovative, puristic sports car design on the exterior complemented by the puristic , aviation inspired interior designs create a cutting edge , exclusive piece of art with superior driving dynamics due to the modified AMG 6.3 – litre V8 front mid-engine, the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission , the AMG speed-sensitive sports steering and the light yet rigid aluminium space frame. With a solid body structure, AMG high- performance composite braking system, 3-stage ESP and other inventions this car exhilarates automotive enthusiasts while not compromising on the basic qualities of Mercedes: Quality, Safety, Reliability and Exclusiveness. The SLS AMG’s dry sump lubrication allows the car to do a 360 degree rotation while running showcased in the SLS Michael Schumacher film.

Additionally the SLS satisfies the desires of the most elite customers by offering a range of customization opportunities via the AMG Performance Studio.

The first Mercedes ever was a very successful race car, with the SLS AMG Mercedes-Benz AMG is leveraging its motor racing experience fully for customers and takes their driving experience to the next level!

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG also wins over the hearts in the F1 circuits where it is the Official F1™ Safety Car. This vehicle is deployed whenever hazardous situations such as accidents or bad weather endanger normal racing thereby ensure maximum safety in Formula 1 circuit. All Mercedes and AMG fans have been excited seeing the gullwing model together with the new Mercedes GP Petronas Team at the F1 circuits.

The SLS AMG was first presented in India during the Auto Expo 2010 at New Delhi. The response to the car from customers and aficionados in India has been overwhelming… just like in every other place in the world. Mercedes-Benz India has indicated about 10 confirmed bookings for this car received until June 2010.

Courtesy: Mercedes-Benz India

GM India launches Chevrolet Aveo CNG variant for Rs 6.31lakh

General Motors India today launched the CNG version of its Chevrolet Aveo mid-size sedan at a ceremony presided over by its President and Managing Director Mr. Karl Slym. The Aveo CNG is a bi-fuel vehicle with a full-size petrol tank that is one of the most environmentally friendly cars available in India.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Slym said, “The launch of the Aveo CNG is a testament to the importance that GM India attaches to green technology and environmentally friendly mobility solutions. Its running cost is approximately 57 percent lower than a similar vehicle powered by petrol and 25 percent lower than a similar vehicle powered by diesel. Because of the lower operating economics and the growing number of CNG stations being built across India, this new offering is expected to appeal to both individual and fleet customers. Under normal driving conditions, the Aveo CNG has a range of 180 to 200 kilometres on a full tank of CNG and is BS IV compliant.”

The Chevrolet Aveo CNG is equipped with next-generation computer-controlled CNG injection technology from Italy. In an industry first, all “critical to quality” CNG kit components are fitted at the factory – including the CNG injectors, selector switch, modified wiring and suspension – to ensure high-quality and trouble-free service. In addition, the body is reinforced to carry the additional mass of the cylinder. Sequential injection represents the most advanced level of evolution of CNG kit technology. The ECU (Electronic Controller Unit) calculates the opening times of the injectors for each cylinder and acts separately on each gas injector with the highest precision.

Aveo CNG Benefits include:
1. The sequential injection kit offers precise fuel delivery control through electronic injectors, ensuring efficient combustion.
2. The engine offers stable performance in CNG mode.
3. The Aveo has a CNG-compatible engine. Hardened valve seats and anodized pistons are used in the proven 1.4-litre VGIS (Variable Geometry Intake System) petrol engine. This ensures no engine damage or reliability issues in CNG mode.
4. Minimum service is required owing to the Aveo CNG’s advanced electronic operation.
5. The suspension has been reinforced to support the additional mass of the CNG cylinder in the trunk.

GM India engineers have done extensive testing and validation of the Aveo CNG. The Chevrolet Aveo CNG comes with a three-year/100,000-km standard warranty, which is an industry first in the mid-size sedan segment, and a service interval of 5,000 km or six months (whichever comes first). During the run of the Aveo in pure CNG mode will not impact the vehicle warranty.

It may be recalled that the Chevrolet Aveo finished first in its segment in the prestigious J.D. Power Initial Quality Study (IQS) two years in a row because of its class-leading quality attributes. It has also been rated best in class in terms of fuel economy by journalists across the country. In addition, the Aveo has won several awards since its introduction.

The Chevrolet Aveo is a global product that incorporates the latest technology and meets the highest standards of quality. It has been re-engineered for India based on extensive testing across the country to meet the specific needs of local customers, driving conditions and regulations. Its class-leading performance and long list of features make it an ideal city car. The Aveo is being sold in more than 140 countries around the world, including several European markets and the United States.

Courtesy: General Motors India

BMW India launches all new 5 Series in India

The new BMW 5 Series was unveiled today at the exclusive BMW pavilion which has been specially constructed for the launch in India. The new BMW 5 Series is available in two petrol variants – 535i and 523i and two diesel variants – 530d and 525d and can be ordered at BMW dealerships across India.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Peter Kronschnabl, President, BMW India said, “The 5 Series is the core model in our product portfolio. Each generation of the BMW 5 Series has been a winner and has played a major role in the company’s success around the world. And we intend to keep it that way in India. You can imagine what high expectations we have of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan: It has to live up to its highly successful predecessor both in terms of innovative technology and sales achievements.”

“Splendid design, flawless workmanship, driver orientation with ideally placed instruments and intuitive operation, the new BMW 5 Series embodies a formula to captivate the senses. The new BMW 5 Series is everything a BMW sedan is meant to be: aesthetic, dynamic and efficient.” Mr. Peter Kronschnabl, President, BMW India further added.

The BMW 5 Series has significantly contributed to the success and image of BMW in India. BMW India has sold over 3600 units of the 5 Series in India since 2007.

The all India ex-showroom prices in INR are as follows.
The new BMW 523i : 38,90,000
The new BMW 525d : 39,90,000
The new BMW 530d : 45,90,000

Ex-showroom price excludes RTO registration charges, tax, insurance, handling charges; Octroi and entry tax (as applicable). The above ex-showroom prices are exclusive of sales tax / VAT applicable on sale to the customer. Prices and options are subject to change without prior notice.
The 523i, 525d and 530d will be produced at the BMW Plant Chennai. The 535i will be available as a CBU (completely built-up unit) and will have an ex-showroom price of INR 58,00,000.

The new BMW 5 Series will be available in Alpine White as non-metallic paintwork and in the following metallic colours: Space Grey, Titanium Silver, Black Sapphire, Havanna, Cashmere Silver, Deep Sea Blue, Milano Beige, Imperial Blue Brilliant Effect and Sophisto Grey Brilliant Effect.

Dakota leather is the standard upholstery for the new BMW 5 Series and is available in the following colour combinations: Oyster / Black, Black / Black, Vento Beige / Vento Beige, Oyster / Oyster dark and Cinnamon Brown / Black. The following interior trims are available: Fine-wood trim Ash Grain Brown and Fine-wood trim ‘Fine line” anthracite.

The new BMW 5 Series: Description in Brief
The sixth generation of BMW’s immensely successful four-door stands out through modern aesthetics in design, conveys all of the Sheer Driving Pleasure so typical of BMW and offers unparalleled luxury in the upper midrange segment.

The sophisticated aesthetics and dynamic looks of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan are the result of perfectly balanced proportions. Again in the typical style of the brand, the new BMW 5 Series Sedan boasts of a long and contoured engine compartment lid, short overhangs, a coupé-like flowing roofline as well as the longest wheelbase in the segment. The charismatic flair of the upright front section and the BMW kidney grill inclined slightly forward from certain perspectives, the stylish elegance of the side view and the muscular sportiness of the rear end all come together in typical BMW design language to provide an outstanding look of style and supremacy.

Within the interior, horizontal surfaces and exciting lines create a truly generous and harmonious ambience. The clear structure of the cockpit enhances the high level of driver orientation, while the stylish, modern design of the interior is further refined by top-quality material and tastefully composed colour combinations.

The new BMW 5 Series Sedan is entering the market with the world’s first straight-six petrol engine with Twin Power Turbo, High Precision Injection and Valvetronic (225 kW/306 hp) in the BMW 535i as well as straight-six petrol engine in the BMW 523i (150 kW/204 hp). The latest generation of straight-six diesels featuring an all-aluminium crankcase and common-rail direct injection develop 180 kW/245 hp in BMW 530d and 150 kW/204 hp in BMW 525d.

Eight-speed automatic transmission comes standard with the BMW 523i and the BMW 525d. Eight Speed Sports Automatic transmission with shift paddles on the steering wheel is standard feature on the BMW 535i and theBMW 530d . With its innovative gear set configuration, a unique level of inner efficiency and optimised weight, the eight-speed automatic transmission combines outstanding gearshift comfort, dynamic performance and efficiency of the highest level.

The combination of a double track arm front axle and the Integral-V rear axle ensures supreme driving dynamics and motoring comfort all in one. Further efficiency is provided by Electric Power Steering (EPS) including Servotronic as standard feature for the first time in the BMW 5 Series. The clearly structured cockpit and intuitive controls enhance Sheer Driving Pleasure in typical BMW style to an even higher level, at the same time underlining the sophisticated ambience within the passenger compartment of thenew BMW 5 Series. The driver-oriented cockpit in Black Panel technology, the multifunction steering wheel featured as standard, the two highly functional steering wheel columns, and the separation of driving and comfort functions further enhance the feeling of supremacy at the wheel.

Courtesy: BMW India

Africa’s Mi-Fone forays into Indian market

Mi-Fone, Africa’s fastest growing mobile devices brand and nominee for “New Entrant of the Year 2009” at the recent 2nd annual AfricaCom Awards, is making its entry in the Indian Market. Mi-Fone is currently available in 15 African countries including Ghana, Tanzania, Mauritius, DRC, Kenya, Uganda, Burkina Faso, Zambia, Madagascar and Nigeria. In its second year, Mi-Fone has already established itself as a successful brand across the African continent, connecting with, and meeting the growing needs of the mass market sector with affordable lifestyle products. Offering an extensive range of phones incorporating GPRS, JAVA and other quality features normally associated with high-end mobile handsets, Mi-Fone’s extensive range of phones are now available in India.

Alpesh Patel, CEO Mi-Fone, says, “Mi-Fone’s entry into the India market started mid 2009 with the signing up of authorized distribution channels. We wanted to test the waters first as we know India to be an extremely competitive market.” Patel continues, “I am confident that with our current sales forecasts the time is right to embark on our brand awareness campaigns nationwide. Mi-Fone is not your typical out-of-the-box brand. Our team consists of individuals who have more than 25 years combined experience in the handset business. This, coupled with a young and creative marketing team, means that we are able to deliver relevant product offerings to the new mass market sectors. Our ongoing success in Africa with GSM Carriers, wholesalers and retailers has given us a good foundation on which to enter the Indian market.”

The Mi-Fone range of mobile handsets currently available in India includes the Mi-Q family, Mi-5QS, Mi-338, Mi-2010 and Mi-350a. Each ‘fone’ has been selected with the target market in mind - young adult mobile users who are techno-savvy on a global level.

The Mi-Q family of mobile handsets includes the Mi-Q (voice/SMS), Mi-Q1 GPRS with camera and Dual Sim card as well as the Mi-Q5S. With a full colour screen, FM radio and QWERTY keypad, the Mi-Q range provides affordable and quality user-friendly solutions in a compact package. The later versions of the Mi-Qwerty range will also include “MI-APPS” which will enable the mass market sector to get a lighter version of the “Blackberry experience”. Mi-Apps will launch with Push email and Messenger.

The Mi-Q338 offers an LCD touch screen, Dual Sim along with analog TV, MP3 and video capability as well as multi-media functions including SMS, MMS, GPRS, WAP and a shake sensor.

The Mi-350a not only has an antenna, which increases the reception by 2-3db, it also boasts two batteries - an innovative way of changing a battery whilst the phone remains on. These features are both ways in which Mi-Fone keeps you connected at all times.

Mi-2010 is a low cost Dual Sim handset celebrating African sports. It includes a camera to catch those memorable 2010 moments.

Courtesy: Mi-Fone

Nokia X2: An entry level music phone in India @ INR 5000

Nokia today announced the Nokia X2 in India. The Nokia X2 is the latest device to join the Xseries line-up and is due out before the end of June. We're still in a spin after the Nokia N8 but if you're ready for more join us after the jump to find out what the Nokia X2 has to offer.

Taking more than a little inspiration from its bigger brothers the Nokia X3 and the Nokia X6, the candybar Nokia X2 offers a 2.2-inch QVGA screen and measures in at just 13mm thin and 81g light.

The Nokia X2 also packs dual speakers, dedicated music keys, FM stereo and support for up to 16GB of storage via microSD card make for a nifty mobile music device. On the back is a 5 megapixel camera allowing it to capture some fairly good pictures.

Bluetooth 2.1 is supported for wireless music enjoyment whilst hardcore music fans can opt for the 3.5mm headphone jack. Full speed USB 2.0 makes music transfer quick and easy and music can be managed via the Ovi Player PC client or Windows Media Player 11.

It's not just a musical maestro, the X2 also offers direct access to Facebook from the homescreen and comes with Nokia Messaging goodness for email and Instant Messaging. Other notable feature include instant access to apps from Ovi Store, a five-megapixel camera and a video recorder.

Nokia X2 Price & Availability: The Nokia X2 will be available before end of June on an estimated retail price of Rs.5000 /- approx. or €85 before taxes and subsidies.

Courtesy: Nokia

Loop Mobile invests Rs. 200 crores in network upgrade across Mumbai

Mumbai’s longest standing and leading mobile service provider, Loop Mobile has embarked on a major network upgrade for which the company has invested Rs. 200 crores as part of its phase I capex plans. This investment will further enhance, strengthen and expand the Loop Mobile network in Mumbai to that of a next generation, superior and a state of the art one.

As part of the expansion, Loop Mobile will add 1200 new cell sites in Mumbai making its network one of the strongest in the city. Additionally special emphasis will be laid on enhancing network strength at subscriber pain points including In-buildings, basements & flyovers.

In a first of its kind GSM deployment across any metro in India, the Next Generation Software Define Radio (SDR) multi-mode solution has already begun and is expected to be seamlessly completed by mid 2010. This SDR based Next Generation IP (NGIP) Network Upgrade is environment friendly which will considerably reduce carbon footprint, much in line with the social commitments of Loop Mobile.

Commenting on this development, Mr. Sandip Basu, CEO – Loop Mobile said, “Loop Mobile has always strived to consistently upgrade the technology and innovate so as to provide a superior network experience. Our intent is to raise the industry bar on network performance. This additional investment of Rs. 200 crore is just a reiteration of our service commitment to our rapidly growing subscriber base. We undertook a rigorous evaluation in our quest for the best technology that would enable our network to remain cutting edge & world class.”

Loop Mobile has invested over Rs. 300 crore in the last three years in strengthening its network and enhancing services in Mumbai. This Next Generation 2.1 technology upgrade will cater to all the requirements of the existing network. Subscribers will instantly benefit from enhanced network quality, crystal clear voice clarity and high speed data access.

Courtesy: Loop Mobile India