We are at the juncture where technology meets cars. The upcoming mean machines offer varying degrees of power and comfort, alongside a host of cutting edge technology that will please every tech savvy person. Here's looking at the biggest car launches scheduled in India for every technology enthusiast to follow.
Maruti Suzuki Swift Dzire
Expected launch: May 16
Expected pricing: Up to Rs. 9,25,000
Already previewed before its official launch, this is the first time that Maruti is launching the new generation Dzire ahead of the Swift. The new Dzire includes a new infotainment console with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and MirrorLink, along with steering-mounted controls, more connectivity ports and a design overhaul.
Lexus LX450d
Expected launch: May 2017
Expected pricing: Rs. 2,30,00,000
The new Lexus SUV combines butch-like aggression with easing grace and technological advancements into an expensive CBU. The tech inside the new Lexus SUV include Lexus' own Enform app suite, Mark Levinson-branded premium audio setup, multiple infotainment screens including passenger screens, panoramic cameras and sensors, and more!
Tesla Model 3
Expected launch: June 2017
Expected pricing: Rs. 60,00,000
This one's more of a shot in the dark, but with the government increasingly keen on pushing electric vehicles and eager to consider setting up charging station networks, it is not improbable for Tesla to arrive in India in about a few months. CEO Elon Musk has already tweeted about his intent, and the company's entry to Indian markets may actually be a pivotal point for the evolution of electric cars in India.
Skoda Kodiaq
Expected launch: August 2017
Expected pricing: Up to Rs. 35,00,000
The all-new Skoda Kodiaq will join India's SUV lineup, and looking at its dimensions and design, has every chance to be a popular offering. Alongside, Skoda will possibly be powering the car's infotainment unit with an updated VW SmartLink infotainment unit and premium audio setup to boot. All of this will join features like electric seats and mirrors and more in what is expected to be a thorough tech-laden offering.
Hyundai Verna (2017)
Expected launch: August 2017
Expected pricing: Up to Rs. 10,00,000
The new, facelifted Hyundai Verna will be taking a more Elantra-like stance, along with a new infotainment system that is expected to include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Hyundai's own infotainment software. The new Verna is expected to be a thorough upgrade from the older version, and also present LED headlamps, ORVM indicators and DRLs to complete the tech package.
Audi Q2
Expected launch: October 2017
Expected pricing: Rs. 30,00,000
The Audi Q2 compact SUV is expected to be priced in the same league as the Skoda Kodiaq, and present a more sporty appeal as against the more austere Q3 SUV. It comes with contrasting C-pillar colour scheme that adds a dash of sporty appeal, and is powered by Audi's MMI infotainment system that, like most luxury infotainment setups, is fairly different from the rest of the competition.
Volkswagen Passat
Expected launch: October 2017
Expected pricing: Rs. 27,50,000
The VW Passat is making a return to stand alongside the updated Skoda Superb, but we will not be seeing it in action in India until late 2017. The new VW Passat will expectedly be an electronics fest inside, with seat, mirror, light controls and an infotainment setup that provides its own interface alongside Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and MirrorLink.
Land Rover Range Rover Velar
Expected launch: December 2017
Expected pricing: Rs. 75,00,000
The new Range Rover Velar was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March, and will be upon us by the end of 2017. The new luxury SUV is expected to use JLR's updated InControl+ infotainment setup that covers all features alongside providing third party app support, valet mode and a plethora of controls to tweak the in-car air conditioning, seat positions and more.