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Popular Small Cars of 2008

Small car segment rules the Indian car industry ever since the car industry came into existence in the country. Though the aspirational aspects of a car is slowly shifting towards sedans, small cars are still able to delight and fascinate car buyers with their characteristics like tiny size, cost effectiveness, easy handling, low maintenance, and better drivability.

Despite so many small cars thriving in the market, the car manufacturers eyeing the potential of small cars are continuously decorating the car industry by rolling out their little jewels. The year 2008 did not witnessed much small car launches but few models that were introduced with glossy designs and advanced features reflect the enthusiasm of car manufacturers to dominate this powerful and high volume car segment.

Some of the small cars that have enthralled car buyers with their performance and style are listed here:

bullet Hyundai i10

Hyundai introduced its i-series in India with the launch of the model Hyundai i10 in 2007 November. The car is a big hit in the domestic as well as international market with its best in class features. It has not only impressed buyers but also critics bagging several awards and appreciations. Hyundai i10 being stylish, affordable and reliable has set a new trend in the small car segment which other car manufacturers are following to increase their sales volume.

The commanding aerodynamics of the car is well reflected by its curved roof and wide black waistline moulding that provide the car a dynamic sporty look. The i10 offers option of two engines - 1.1-litre iRDE and 1.2-litre Kappa ( Kappa was added in 2008) mated with 4-speed manual and 5-speed automatic transmission.

It is a perfect blend of latest technology, stylish features, and unmatched performance. Exterior wise, the car flaunts with beautifully designed bulged headlights and low slung grille. Whereas the interior is ergonomically designed with long front seat, coupled back rest and head rest which gives a perfect resting platform. Safety features like child safety door locks, dual air bags, ABS (Anti lock braking system), Front disc brakes, multi reflector clear glass fog lamp make it a perfect choice in the segment. Available in five variants - D-Lite, Era, Magna, Sportz, and Astra with a price tag ranging from Rs 3.2 Lakh to 5.2 Lakh.

bullet Skoda Fabia

Skoda Fabia belonging to the premium hatchback segment was launched in January, 2008. The Fabia is developed on the new PQ25 platform that offers three choice of engine -1.4-litre diesel, 1.4-litre, and 1.2-litre petrol engine which is supported by 5-speed manual transmission. The engine is smooth and powerful with appreciated fuel economy.

Both the interior and the exterior styling is breathtaking with elegant design and sharp features. Its striking chrome front grille, the glossy black decorative foil on the A and B pillars, wide alloy wheels, and multi-reflector fog lamps make the car stand apart in its class. The interior offers comfort, luxury, advanced safety features. The car sets the benchmark for roominess in the small car segment. The multi-textured fabric wrapped upholstery adds class to the car. Safety features comprises anti-lock braking system (ABS), Motor Speed Regulator (MSR), dual brake assist system and dual front air bags. This five seater car with attractive design is available in four variants - Active, Classic, Ambiente and Elegance with the price range of 5.8 Lakh to 6.9 Lakh.

bullet Fiat 500

Fiat re-entered the Indian market with full strength introducing its amazing models. To revive its brand image in Indian, it launched Fiat 500, a two door coupe in 2008 July. This lifestyle model is imported to India as a completely built unit. Fiat 500 is designed by Fiat Style Centre and called Cinquecento in Italy.

Fiat 500 is a perfect blend of conventional design, luxurious features, and performance. The sporty exterior is enhanced with circular shaped trendy headlamps and the trademark chrome whisker. The rear is adorned with chrome finish large tailgate, large tail lamps, and an integrated roof spoiler. The 15-inch alloy wheel steels the attention from other cars of its class.

The interior adorned with latest technology and conservative design. The leather seating and the chrome plated gear shift which is housed on the dash is unique and gives a royal touch to the car. Fiat 500 offers active safety features like ABS with electronic brake distribution, dual air bags, and fire prevention system. The car is powered by 1.3-litre turbo-charged engine having 5-speed manual transmission that gives fuel economy of 14/16 kmpl (city/highway). Carrying a price tag of Rs 15 Lakh, it is credited as being one of the most expensive small cars in India. The car is available in two avatars - the Fiat Sport and Fiat Lounge.

bullet Maruti Suzuki A-star

Maruti Suzuki's first global car is the latest addition to the small car segment. This global star shines on the Indian roads with its wonderful design, pathbreaking technology, and excellent performance. The highlight of the car is the best in class fuel efficiency which is recently declared to be 19.6 km/l. Being eco-friendly in nature, it meets the 'end of life vehicle' (ELV) specifications, according to this concept, 85 percent of the car can be recycled.

A-star is equipped with the latest KB series engine powered by 1.0-litre and a 5-speed manual transmission. The car meets the Indian as well as international future emission norms. Its futuristic aerodynamic looks and window design coupled with aero theme interior ensures effortless and smooth drive. The car is also equipped with advanced safety features like TECT (Total Effect Control Technology) with ABS and dual airbags. It comes in three variants, LXI, VXI, and the top-end version ZXI with price ranging from of Rs 3.4 Lakh to Rs 3.9 Lakh.

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