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Volkswagen budget brand to launch in China in 2018

First model from brand expected to be a mid-sized SUV co-developed with China’s First Automobile Works; may target emerging markets later, including India.
1 min read15 Mar '17
Autocar India News DeskAutocar India News Desk
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The Volkswagen Group’s long-anticipated budget brand will launch in China in 2018.

Speaking at the announcement of the Volkswagen Group’s 2016 financial results, Jochem Heizmann, board member responsible for China, confirmed that the first vehicles produced in partnership with Chinese car maker First Automobile Works (FAW) would launch “with a focus on the SUV segment.”

“We want to be competitive in that segment,” said Heizmann. It is believed that the first launch will be a mid-sized SUV, and that a saloon and hatchback are likely to follow.

Heizmann claimed that no name for the economy brand has yet been decided, but confirmed that “at the moment it will not be VW.”

The Volkswagen Group has previously struggled to meet its internal minimum standards for manufacturing while still meeting the financial constraints imposed by building a budget car to be profitable. A partnership with Suzuki to work on similar vehicles was dissolved in 2015.

Although the cars will initially be sold in China, emerging markets like India, Latin America, Eastern Europe, the Baltic region and Africa could be subsequently targeted. However, presently, there are no plans to sell the cars anywhere else in Europe.

In a separate project, the Volkswagen Group is also working with Tata Motors on vehicles for the Indian market. Development is being led by the Skoda brand, with Volkswagen Group CEO Matthias Müller confirming that a range of body styles would be launched on a small, A0-sized platform from 2019.

India-spec new BMW 5-series: 5 things to know

The latest BMW 5-series will hit the Indian showrooms in June-July, here are five important things you must know.
2 min read15 Mar '17
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FCA-VW partnership not out of the question: VW CEO

Following the PSA and Opel deal, Volkswagen CEO Matthias Müller has said that he wouldn't rule out a partnership with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles.
1 min read15 Mar '17
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2017 Toyota Corolla Altis to launch soon

The Corolla Altis facelift will use the current line-up of engines; features revised styling and interiors; bookings open now.
1 min read15 Mar '17
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Maruti Ignis vs Grand i10 vs KUV 100 diesel comparison

Maruti's hatchback for millennials, the Ignis, takes on Mahindra's young KUV100 and Hyundai's Grand i10 that looks youthful thanks to an update.
3 min read15 Mar '17
Nikhil BhatiaNikhil Bhatia

Grand i10 and Ignis have large and easy-to-access boots. KUV’s narrow boot opening is inconvenient.

The Ignis is quick but you have to wait for the turbo to kick in at 2,000rpm to get to the meat of the powerband.

The Ignis is a clear break from typical Suzuki design.

Ignis dash looks contemporary and body-coloured panels help liven cabin.

You sit upright in the Ignis. Cabin is larger than it looks.

Ignis shares switches with a host of other Marutis.

Ignis’ LED lights provide great illumination at night.

Larger engine has done wonders for Grand i10’s performance. Power is delivered in a very friendly, linear manner.

Grand i10 is conventional in its design and styling is restrained too.

User-friendly and well-finished Grand i10 dash now sports a touchscreen.

There’s lots of space in the Grand i10 but you sit low.

Grand i10 is the only car here with a rear air con vent.

i10’s fixed front headrests should have been larger.

KUV’s engine offers good drivability in town but it doesn’t like to be revved. It’s also the noisiest engine here.

KUV body is a mishmash of too many styling elements.

KUV dash is smart. Gear lever sits on centre console to make space for middle seat. (Picture of KUV 100 K8)

KUV is roomiest. Windows don’t extend all the way back.

KUV100 offers the unique option of a front bench seat.

Pull-type handbrake on KUV is cumbersome to use.

Mahindra Electric gearing up to be a component supplier

In addition to manufacturing vehicles, Mahindra Electric is also ready to supply electric drivetrain and components to other automakers.
1 min read15 Mar '17
Sergius BarrettoSergius Barretto