New car launches around the corner

21^st Feb 2018 2:34 pm

Here's a look at some of the new cars that are being brought to the Indian market in the first half of 2018.

We are only into the second month of 2018 and there have been a flurry of new launches for the India already. The Auto Expo 2018 is a great platform to introduce new vehicles for India and carmakers like Maruti and Hyundai launched the third-gen Swift and a facelift for the i20, Premium manufacturers like BMW and Mercedes introduced a slew of new models – the former brought out the 6-series GT and the X6 35i, along with the new M3, M4 and M5, while Mercedes launched the Maybach-badged S560 and S650.

Going forward, this year is expected to see quite a large number of new introductions to the Indian market. Here’s what you can look forward to in the coming months:

Mercedes-Benz S-class facelift (February 26, 2018)
Mercedes’ refreshed flagship sedan will be introduced at an expected starting price of Rs 1.2 crore. The facelift sports slightly revised exterior and interior styling and more features, tech and creature comforts as compared to the current model on sale, in India. The highlight of the facelift will be the new BS-VI compliant 3.0-litre, in-line, six-cylinder diesel engine that makes 286hp and 600Nm of torque. The engine, which can even run on the less refined BS-IV fuel, is also claimed to be more efficient than the outgoing V6 mill.
Also see:
Mercedes S-Class facelift India launch on February 26
Mercedes S-class facelift spied in India
Mercedes S-class coupe, cabriolet facelifts revealed

Audi RS5 (Feb 2018)
Audi will bring its BMW M4 rival to India by the end of this month. The second-gen RS5 coupe is larger yet lighter than the older model and is powered by a new 450hp/600Nm, 2.9-litre turbocharged V6 petrol engine. Unlike its rear-wheel-drive rival, power is sent to all-four-wheels via a new eight-speed automatic transmission. Claimed 0-100kph time stands at 3.9secs and top speed is claimed at 250kph (280kph with the Dynamic Pack).

Honda Amaze (early 2018)
Making its global debut at the Auto Expo 2018, Honda’s second-gen compact sedan shares design cues with its larger siblings, particularly the Accord. When it arrives, expect the new Amaze to be powered by the same 88hp, 1.2-litre petrol and 100hp, 1.5-litre diesel engines available on the current model. The five-speed manual is also expected to be carried over though the new bit will be a CVT automatic option on the diesel.
Also see:
New-gen Honda Amaze first look video
New Honda Amaze image gallery

Mitsubishi Outlander (April 2018)
Mitsubishi is set to expand its model line-up in the country with the launch of the new Outlander. Set to be launched in the coming months, the Outlander will be available as a petrol-only model and will be imported as a CBU. Powering the SUV will be a 169hp, 2.4-litre petrol engine paired with a CVT gearbox and Mitsubishi's Super All-Wheel Control four-wheel-drive system.
Also read: 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander India launch soon

Ford Figo, Aspire facelift (early 2018)
As part of its mid-cycle refresh, Ford will bring its updated Figo hatchback and Aspire compact sedan with some cosmetic changes, both outside and inside. The highlight of the facelift for India will be the introduction of the all-new 96hp, 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine from Ford’s new Dragon series of petrol motors (debuted on the Freestyle cross-hatch) that will replace the current 1.2-litre, four-cylinder Sigma petrol mill. A 1.5-litre petrol Dragon engine made its first appearance in the EcoSport facelift.  
Also read: 
Ford Figo, Aspire facelifts coming next year
2018 Ford Figo facelift (Ka+) image gallery
2018 Ford Freestyle cross-hatch revealed

BMW X3 (May 2018)
BMW will bring the third-gen X3 to India to rival the likes of the Mercedes-Benz GLC, new Audi Q5, the new Volvo XC60 and the Lexus NX 300h. While details have yet to be confirmed, expect engine options to include a 248hp, xDrive30i four-cylinder petrol, a 190hp, xDrive20d four-cylinder diesel and a 265hp, xDrive30d six-cylinder diesel. The X3 was also showcased at the Auto Expo 2018.
Also see:
2018 BMW X3 video review
2017 BMW X3 review, test drive

Toyota Yaris (May 2018)
Toyota’s Honda City and Hyundai Verna rival, recently showcased at the 2018 Auto Expo, will arrive with a 108hp, 1.5-litre petrol engine. No diesel motor is expected to be offered. The petrol engine will be mated to a six-speed manual as standard and come with an optional seven-step CVT automatic. Segment-first features include a powered driver's seat and front parking sensors.
Also see:
2018 Toyota Yaris vs rivals: Specifications comparison
2018 Toyota Yaris: 5 things you need to know
Toyota Yaris sedan first look video
2018 Toyota Yaris sedan India image gallery
New Toyota Yaris Cross revealed

Mahindra MPV (U321) (early 2018)
After being repeatedly spotted testing all over the country, Mahindra’s all-new three-row MPV will finally go on sale in the first few months of 2018. Mahindra’s first monocoque-bodied MPV, this new model will be powered by a new 130hp, 1.6-litre mHawk diesel engine. We expect pricing in the Rs 10-15 lakh range – such that it slots in between the Maruti Ertiga on one side and the Innova Crysta on the other.
Also see: Two versions for Mahindra’s Tivoli-based S201 SUV

Mahindra XUV500 facelift
Since the model was spotted during testing, Mahindra is gearing up to bring out a facelift. The highlight of the update will be under the bonnet. The diesel engine will get a bump in output and is expected to put out 170hp. The manual and automatic transmissions will remain unchanged.

Mahindra TUV300 Plus
Essentially being a lengthened version of the TUV300, Mahindra is expected to launch the TUV300 Plus in the coming months. The model gets a tweaked rear styling with new tail-lamps that extend to the side. It is now also capable of seating a maximum of nine people. Otherwise, the car will share exterior and interior bits with the TUV300. It is expected to be powered by the 120hp, 1.99-litre engine, available exclusively on the Mahindra Scorpio sold in the Delhi-NCR region.

Land Rover, Range Rover, Range Rover Sport facelifts (early 2018)
A mid-cycle refresh, the design-based changes on the Range Rover include a refreshed grille with a gloss-black surround in a front bumper and four options of headlamps, including a pixel-laser option. The Range Rover Sport line-up gets subtle changes to the grille and new LED headlamps. Interiors are refreshed, as well and more in line with the Velar. The engine line-up has been uprated for better performance and more fuel economy.

SsangYong Rexton (early 2018)
The all-new Rexton from the Mahindra-owned Korean carmaker is built on a new body-on-frame chassis, making it better-looking and lighter than the vehicle it will replace. It now features projector headlamps with LED DRLs, a slim hexagonal grille, LED fog and cornering lamps and 20-inch alloy wheels. The interior will get a large 9.2-inch high-definition touchscreen, soft-touch plastics and quilted Nappa leather upholstery. The seven-seat SUV will be powered by a 2.2-litre diesel engine mated to an automatic gearbox with all-wheel drive. Whether it will be badged a SsangYong or a Mahindra is still unknown.
Also see: 2017 SsangYong Rexton image gallery

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport (early 2018)
Despite the recent facelift, the current Pajero has begun showing its age against its modern rivals. An all-new model, which will feature a more sophisticated and bolder design, is expected to launch early next year. This rugged, seven-seater is larger than its predecessor, with more interior space. Cabin design has been thoroughly modernised and equipment is expected to be on par, for this price. Its power will come from a 181hp, 2.4-litre, diesel engine paired with an eight-speed automatic gearbox. There will be an all-new switchable four-wheel-drive system with a low-range transfer case for more hardcore off-road requirements.

Rolls-Royce Phantom (early 2018)
The British luxury marque will bring its new-gen flagship sedan to India early, next year. Even more opulent than its predecessor, the new Phantom is expected to cost about Rs 8 crore, before options and be powered by a 6.75-litre turbocharged V12 motor which is capable of propelling the car to 100kph in a scant 5.1 seconds.
Also see:
2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom video review
2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom review, test drive
2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom: Behind the scenes
2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom image gallery
Rolls-Royce to develop electric Phantom

Bentley Continental GT (early 2018)
The third-gen sporty grand tourer from Bentley uses the Porsche-developed MSB (modular standard drivetrain) platform which is also used in the new Panamera. The Bentley Dynamic Ride – a 48-volt electric active roll-control system from the Bentayga also features on the new Continental GT. This, along with wight savings of about 85kg makes the car even more agile than before. Propulsion is courtesy of a 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged W12 petrol engine, capable of doing 0-100kph in 3.7sec with a top speed of 333kph. The insides are typically opulent.

Datsun Go Cross (early 2018)
The Japanese brand’s most premium offering, the Cross, is based on the seven-seat Go+ MPV, though comes with significant changes inside and outside when compared to its sibling. Typical of crossovers in this segment, the Cross gets added exterior cladding to give it a more muscular look. Equipment levels are also much higher than siblings with a 6.75-inch touchscreen unit, with AM/FM, MP3, USB, Aux-in, Bluetooth and smartphone connectivity in the centre console. Powertrain will be shared with the Go and Go+.

BMW X2 (mid-2018)
The X2 will be BMW’s sixth SUV. It shares the UKL platform with the X1 and is designed to be sportier than smaller crossover, standing 49mm shorter and 69mm lower. For India, expect the X1’s 190hp, 2.0-litre petrol that drives the front wheels, the 190hp, 2.0-litre diesel that sends power to all four-wheels, and the current range-topper is a 231hp, 2.0-litre diesel motor with four-wheel-drive to be on offer. The X2 will lock horns with the likes of the Range Rover Evoque.
Also see:
India-bound BMW X2 unveiled
2018 BMW X2 image gallery

Honda Jazz facelift (mid-2018)
The mid-cycle refresh for the Jazz has been revealed and was showcased at the 2017 Frankfurt motor show. The facelift gets cosmetic changes inside and out and the addition of more kit. The India-spec model is expected to borrow equipment that is already available on the City mid-size sedan. This Hyundai i20 and Maurti Baleno rival is expected to be powered by the same 1.2-litre petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engine.
Also see:
2018 Honda Jazz facelift image gallery
2018 Honda Jazz facelift revealed

Honda CR-V (mid-2018)
Honda had brought the new CR-V to Auto Expo 2018; its USP, the seven-seat configuration. This third-gen model will replace the current one on sale and unlike its predecessor, come with a new 160hp, 1.6-litre diesel engine option. A new nine-speed automatic may also be on the cards for this Hyundai Tucson and Jeep Compass rival.
Also see:
2018 Honda CR-V review, test drive
2018 Honda CR-V diesel video review

Hyundai Creta facelift (mid-2018)
The refreshed Creta has been spied testing in India recently and will sport styling similar to that of the China-spec model. The mid-cycle facelift is also expected to only be powered by the 1.6-litre petrol and diesel engines; the 90hp, 1.4-litre diesel unit may not make a comeback. Expect segment-leading equipment in the cabin for the upcoming Renault Captur rival.

Maruti Ertiga (mid-2018)
Expected to arrive in August, the new Ertiga is expected to be longer and slightly wider than the outgoing model. A longer rear overhang should mean more space in the third-row. The second-gen model could also get a more upright stance up front with a high-set nose and front bumper. Wheels are expected to go up a size to 16-inch ones. Maruti is likely to offer the same 1.4-litre petrol and a 1.3-litre diesel at launch, with a 1.5-litre diesel engine that’s currently under development in-house replacing Fiat’s 1.3-litre diesel engine at a later date.

Mini Countryman (mid-2018)
The second-gen Countryman shares its front-wheel drive UKL1 platform with the BMW X1 and is expected to be powered by a 192hp, 2.0-litre turbo-petrol on the Countryman Cooper S and a 190hp 2.0-litre diesel in the Countryman D. An eight-speed automatic will come standard and for the first time in the Indian market, four-wheel drive will also be on offer.

Nissan Kicks (mid-2018)
The Kicks in Nissan’s Creta rivalling SUV and shares quite a lot mechanically with the Terrano (and hence, the Renault Duster and Captur). The Kicks looks more stylish than the Terrano though is expected to be powered by the same 104hp, 1.5-litre petrol and 110hp, 1.5-litre diesel engines. Top-spec trims are expected to feature a 360-degree camera, side curtain airbags, and traction control.
Also see: 
India-bound Nissan Kicks: 5 things to know
Exclusive! Nissan confirms launch of Kicks SUV in 2018

Porsche Cayenne (mid-2018)
The third-gen flagship SUV from Porsche gets tweaked exterior and interior styling but the bulk for the changes are under the skin. Based on VW Group’s MLB architecture, the new model is longer and wider, while being shorter than the previous one. Engine options are expected to be shared with the Panamera including a 3.0-litre, V6 diesel, a 3.0-litre V6 petrol and a new, more powerful 2.9-litre turbo V6 petrol mill. The range-topping 550hp 4.0-litre V8 may also be brought to the country. The new Cayenne will rival the likes of the Range Rover Velar.
Also see:
New Porsche Cayenne India launch in June 2018
New Porsche Cayenne Turbo image gallery

Tata Nexon AMT (mid-2018)
While Tata did showcase its compact SUV with an automated manual transmission at the 2018 Auto Expo, it did not say when exactly the model will arrive. The same 110hp, 1.2-litre turbo-petrol and 110hp, 1.5-litre diesel engine will be mated to the six-speed AMT, which will come with a creep function like those found on other Tata AMTs and a hill-start assist. Based on Tata’s usual strategy for its AMT models, expect the Nexon AMT to be offered in the mid-spec XTA trim and top-spec XZA trims, with a Rs 40,000-50,000 premium over their manual counterparts.

Tata Tiago, Tigor EV (mid-2018)
The all-electric versions of the Tiago hatchback and Tigor compact sedan were on display at the 2018 Auto Expo. While there isn’t much to differentiate them from their internal combustion counterparts besides the badging, the EVs are powered by a 3-phase AC induction motor with a peak output of 30kW at 4,500rpm (about 40hp). While there was no mention of charging times or range, fast charging features. Expect a price tag north of Rs 10 lakh.

Volvo XC40 (mid-2018)
Volvo’s baby SUV will take on the likes of the BMW X1, Mercedes GLA and Audi Q3 when it comes to India. The XC40 is expected to be offered with a 190hp, 2.0-litre, four-cylinder diesel (D4) and a 247hp, 2.0-litre, four-cylinder petrol (T5). Both versions will use eight-speed automatic gearboxes and come with all-wheel drive as standard. The 150hp, 2.0-litre diesel (D3) could come in at a later stage, with front-wheel drive. Despite coming to the country as a CBU, expect competitive pricing in the range of Rs 27-30 lakh (ex-showroom).
Also see:
2017 Volvo XC40 video review
2017 Volvo XC40 review, test drive
Full details of Volvo XC40 for India revealed