India: Newswire claims Tata Indica and Indigo replacements due in early 2008
Friday, November 30, 2007, AutomotiveWorld.com
According to a report carried by the Times News Network, Tata Motors is currently readying new versions of the Indica five-door hatchback and Indigo sedan. Both new small cars are expected to be launched in early 2008, the Indian newswire states.
The report, citing unnamed industry sources, believes the Indica will undergo a name change, and will also be available with the Fiat Powertrain Technologies (FPT) 1,248cc turbodiesel engine.
Though the report says other changes are to include a wider track, new lights, a new grille, new suspension and improved safety features as well as an increase in interior room, it is more likely that the model in question will be all-new and not a facelift, as is claimed. The current model, launched in 1999, will likely be retained and sold at a lower price. The newswire perceives the price tag of the new Indica to be in the range of Rs450,000 (US$11,350) to Rs550,000.
For the Indigo, the OEM will reportedly reduce the overall length of the car to secure excise benefits, again suggesting an all-new model, or at least a rebodying of the existing car. This is in line with a recent stipulation by India's finance ministry, that a small car should measure no greater than 4,000mm to qualify for excise duty benefits. The new Indigo will also be available with at least one FPT engine, the report claims.
A Tata Motors spokesman has declined to comment on its future model plans. As India's annual national motor show will take place in January, Times News Network's suggestion of an early 2008 debut for the cars may translate into global premieres in New Delhi on the 10 January press day.
Published on Friday, November 30, 2007
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