January has started with a bang for the auto sector with some of the most awaited launches. Let us have a look at cars that have already gone into the waiting period immediately after their launch.
Facelifted Skoda Kodiaq
Skoda’s flagship SUV, the Kodiaq, has made a comeback in India after discontinuing its diesel version in April 2020. Due to the VW group’s intention to phase out oil burners, the facelifted Kodiaq will now sport a petrol engine. The carmaker has already begun production at its Aurangabad plant, and dealerships have started accepting bookings.
Minor exterior changes and extra features, such as heating and massage functions, 10-color ambient lighting, front-seat ventilation, and a two-spoke steering wheel similar to the Kushaq and Slavia, will be available to the SUV.
Toyota Hilux
While buyers have increasingly drawn toward SUVs in recent years, one category that has largely remained unexplored is the pickup truck. Currently, India’s only lifestyle pickup truck is the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross. Toyota has its eyes set on this category and has launched the worldwide popular Hilux here.
It is available in two trim levels: Hilux and Hilux Revo, and will have a lineup of diesel engines with manual and automatic transmissions and 4WD. Several airbags, powered driver’s seat, and a touchscreen system with an 8-inch display.
Facelifted Audi Q7
Audi has launched the Q7 in India with a lot of bells and whistles. Among the slew of updates is the most significant change from diesel to petrol engine. 3-liter turbocharged petrol engine is paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission along with Audi’s AWD powertrain.
It offers four-zone climate control, a tri-screen set-up, panoramic sunroof, and an electrically operated tailgate are all available as standard features.
Kia Carens
Kia Carens has joined the company’s lineup of first three vehicles in India: Seltos, Sonet, and Carnival. Placed between the Seltos SUV and the Carnival MPV and marketed as recreational vehicles, it features a long body, split headlamps, and a tall, straight roofline. In the cabin, there’s a 10.25-inch touchscreen and UVO connected car tech.
The 1.5-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine from the Seltos will power the Carens, which is mated to a six-speed manual transmission. The 1.4-liter turbocharged petrol engine is available with a six-speed manual transmission and a seven-speed DCT automatic transmission, while a six-speed automatic and manual transmission are available with 1.5-liter diesel engine.