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Part-1 - Small Cars to be launched in 2012

Car Makers have lined up a series of new cars for 2012, with hopes of biting off the biggest chunk of the market share. Most car makers have worked on the feedbacks for their popular car models to launch revamped and improved versions. Car Makers in any economy invest huge amount of resources and time and face a lot of challenges including credit crunch, waning interest and huge competition apart from the slowdown in economy, before they rake in millions to recover their investments. Cars which fall within the definition of a small car have additional benefits of a duty cut while enjoying more popularity amongst the masses too. Let?s take a look at the wannabe stars of 2012. We have written the article in parts for your reading convenience.

The New BMW 1 Series

BMW 1 Series is one of the popular car models of BMW, known to be synonymous with driving pleasure. The popular hatchback has made its mark in the history of BMW, selling more than one million units in the worldwide markets. The revamped car carries a high-tech engine and suspension system, taking up the fuel efficiency apart from providing better internal space and attractive and innovative features. The car stands out as the only rear wheel driven car in its class.

The 2012 BMW 1 Series is equipped with a turbocharged 1.6 litre petrol engine that pumps out 247 bhp, while the diesel version with a turbocharged 2.0 litre engine churns out 181 bhp. The engine in both the options is mated to a six-speed manual or an eight speed automatic transmission system. The SUV is expected to storm the market, impressing the onlookers with its precisely molded body shape, youthful and stylish appearance, two ranges of interiors and exterior design choices with a host of exclusive personalization options apart from contributing an impressive fuel efficiency of 18 kmpl. The SUV will be priced from Rs. 17 lakh onwards.

Chevrolet Sail (New)

The 2012 Chevrolet Sail will be launched to directly compete with the other big names in the compact hatchback segment. Launched to replace the U-VA and Aveo, the Sail looks very similar to the outgoing UVA, with a big Chevrolet badge and split front grille. The high end variants will have a chrome finish. In India, GM plans to launch a bigger and more attractive version of the Sail twins which will be manufactured at the plant of the company in Talegaon. The Chevrolet Sail hatchback was showcased at the Auto Expo 2012.

GM has given the Sail the same engine and powertrain as in the Beat model. In case of the diesel variant, the car is likely to feature the 1.3 litre diesel multijet engine, sourced from Fiat. The engine is mated to a five speed manual transmission system. In the global markets, the Chevrolet Sail offers 1.2 litre S-TEC II and 1.4 litre S TEC III engine variants. The small engine contributes to 79 bhp and 10.91 kgm of torque. It is yet to be seen as to which model the company will bring to India and if the diesel version will be launched in India. GM plans to position the Sail as a formidable alternative to the Swift, Micra, i20 and Figo. The stunning looks and saloon like spacious and comfortable interiors will make the task a lot easier for the Sail, expected to be priced in the under-4 lakh price range.

Chevrolet Beat (Facelifted)

General Motors launched the revamped version of the Beat at its centennial anniversary celebrations at Detroit, USA. The new face lifted Beat features a new front and rear facia trims and bumpers, a new honeycomb grille carrying the Chevy bow-tie emblem, new fog lamps, modified head lamps and brake lamps. GM has mildly refreshed the interiors and has given the car new outside rear-view mirrors and an alloy wheel design.

The new Beat will be powered by the Ecotec engine ranging between one and 1.5 litres with three and four-cylinder options. The new range is expected to replace all the petrol engines in the GM stable. A few versions will have direct injection, turbo charging and also alternative fuel compatibility and twin-cam technology. The engines will be designed to be more silent with lower vibration and harshness. GM plans to launch the Spark (Beat) in limited quantities in select US and global markets after 2013.

Fiat Panda (2012)

The third generation Fiat Panda has been launched, continuing the 31 year old history of the brand. Till date, Fiat has sold over 6.5 million units of the model across Europe but has not yet made it to the Middle East. The compact car accommodates five passengers and boasts the biggest boot in the segment. The car features distinctive third side window cuts, a dash and swollen wheel-arches. The versatile interior allows sliding rear seat apart from front seats which flop into a table for a tea break or a small picnic.

When the Panda makes its debut in India, it will feature TwinAir two-cylinder petrol engine with choices of 64 bhp 0.9 Aspirated Twin Air and 84 bhp 0.9 Twin Air Turbo options. The new Panda offers four-cylinder variants with 68 bhp 1.2 FIRE petrol and 74 bhp 1.3 Multijet diesel engine. Suspension of the car comprises McPherson struts in the front and rear familiar torsion beam. The car features the dualogic robotized manual transmission. The new panda comes with a host of safety features including four airbags, anti-lock braking system, pre-tensioner seatbelts and daytime running lamps. The auto-brake system helps in emergency stops.

Fiat Grande Punto (Facelifted)

Fiat Indian in a way to make its good looking baby, the Grande Punto, an even better looking one, has come out with 2012 Grande Punto. The Grand Punto, initially introduced in 2005 was re-vamped as Punto Evo in 2009. The new car will feature slightly bigger headlights and a new bumper with a honeycomb grille. The alloy wheels have been upgraded from 12 spokes to 14 spokes. The rear portion will feature slight changes in the bumper and tail lights. The refreshed interiors will be vastly like the Punto Evo.

The new Fiat Grande Punto, to be priced in the range of Rs. 4.4 lakhs to Rs.7.6 lakhs, will offer choices of 1.2 litre, 1.4 litre petrol and 1.3 litre diesel engine options. The 1.3 liter diesel mill produces a peak power of 75 to 85 bhp with fuel saving technologies. The 900 cc twin cylinder turbopetrol engine produces peak power of 85 bhp with peak torque of 145 Nm. The engine is mated to a six speed manual gearbox. Fuel economy of the car works out to 28 kmpl.