Volkswagen is gearing up to make a significant impact in the small car market with the launch of its new model, the Volkswagen Up. This article delves into the specifics of the Volkswagen Up, its pricing, specifications, and how it stacks up against competitors. We also explore the broader context of Volkswagen's strategy and the competitive landscape in the small car segment.
Volkswagen is set to introduce its new small car, the Volkswagen Up, at the January 2012 Auto Expo in India. This launch marks Volkswagen's entry into the competitive small car market, where it aims to challenge established players like Maruti Suzuki. The Volkswagen Up is expected to be priced between Rs 3 to 4 lakh, making it a more affordable option compared to the Volkswagen Polo.
The Volkswagen Up will be available in multiple variants, each catering to different customer needs. In the United Kingdom, the Up is offered in five models: Take up!, Move up!, High up!, up! Black, and up! White. The base model is priced at £7,995 (approximately Rs 6 lakh), while the high-end variants can cost up to £11,180 (around Rs 8 lakh). Deliveries are scheduled to begin in January 2012.
| Model | Price (UK) | Price (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Take up! | £7,995 | Rs 6 lakh |
| Move up! | £8,995 | Rs 6.75 lakh |
| High up! | £10,000 | Rs 7.5 lakh |
| up! Black | £11,180 | Rs 8 lakh |
| up! White | £11,180 | Rs 8 lakh |
The Volkswagen Up is designed to offer a balance of performance and efficiency. The car is equipped with a modest 59bhp engine, which can reach a top speed of 100mph and accelerate from 0-62mph in 14.4 seconds. The car's CO2 emissions are 105g/km, and it features a BlueMotion version with a stop/start system, overrun-biased alternator battery recharging, and eco tyres, delivering low emission figures of 67.2mpg and 97g/km.
Volkswagen's entry into the small car market is not without competition. Maruti Suzuki, a dominant player in this segment, is also gearing up to defend its market share. Maruti Suzuki's A-Star and Alto K10 are direct competitors to the Volkswagen Up. Additionally, Skoda, a Volkswagen cousin, is set to launch its own small car, the Skoda Citigo, which shares the same platform as the Up. The Citigo is expected to be priced between Rs 2.5 to 3.5 lakh, making it a more affordable option.
Maruti Suzuki is not resting on its laurels. The company is in talks with Fiat to develop a diesel engine car, expected to launch in the next two months. Maruti Suzuki has also ramped up production at its Manesar plant, which had been affected by a recent strike that caused a production loss of up to 20,000 units. This disruption impacted popular models like the Swift and Swift Dzire.
The Volkswagen Up has already made its debut in the United Kingdom in October 2011. The car's introduction in India is part of Volkswagen's broader strategy to capture a significant share of the global small car market. The Up is expected to compete with other premium small cars in India, such as the Maruti Swift, the upcoming Renault Pulse, and the Nissan Micra.
The Volkswagen Up represents a strategic move by Volkswagen to capture a share of the competitive small car market in India and globally. With its affordable pricing, efficient performance, and a range of variants, the Up is well-positioned to challenge established players like Maruti Suzuki. As the small car market continues to grow, Volkswagen's entry with the Up could significantly impact the competitive landscape.
For more information on Volkswagen's global strategy and market performance, you can visit Volkswagen's official website.
Battle of the Ford Figo and Chevrolet Beat
The Indian automobile industry is rapidly evolving, showcasing its prowess on the global stage. In the first quarter of 2010, Hyundai Motor India Ltd, the country's second-largest car manufacturer and the leading passenger car exporter, achieved record sales of 162,273 units, a significant increase from 121,565 units in the same period in 2009. Nissan Motors India also aimed to export 250,000 cars produced at its Indian plant by 2011, a goal they largely accomplished. General Motors (GM) announced plans to export nearly 50,000 cars manufactured in India by the end of the year.
Ford Ikon and Other Cars to Watch Out For
Ford Ikon, Ford Ikon India, Ford Ikon Price, Ford Ikon Specifications
Chevrolet Beat: A Hidden Gem in the Automotive World
The Chevrolet Beat has emerged as a standout in the compact car segment, offering a blend of style, performance, and affordability. This article delves into the specifics of the Chevrolet Beat, highlighting its features, competitive pricing, and how it stacks up against its rivals.
