After loads of anticipation and a gazillion spyshots later, Chevrolet has finally launched its all new Beat. The Beat started life as one of a trio of Chevrolet's concept small cars which originally debuted at the 2007 New York International Auto Show. While it was designed by GM Daewoo in South Korea, the actual prototyping of the concept was done here in India. Apart from these minor changes, the Beat that has been launched is nearly identical to the original concept. That being said, this little Chevy looks significantly different from the glut of small cars that fill the Indian market. http://hallosushant.blogspot.com/
With a 1.2 litre unit under the hood pushing out 79 PS, it's pretty nippy as well. The Beat is launched in 3 variants.
- The base PS version equipped with power steering is priced at Rs. 3.34 lakh.
- The LS with power windows and a spoiler comes at Rs. 3.54 lakh.
- While the top of the range LT with climate control, integrated audio, ABS and optional airbags is priced at a bargain 3.94 lakh (all prices ex-showroom Delhi).
- The fully loaded version with ABS and two airbags will retail for Rs 4.3 lakh
In terms of pricing, the Beat has truly threatened the prevailing players in the 1.2-litre hatch space. Just to put things in perspective, the current champ of the segment Maruti Suzuki Ritz is priced between Rs 3.9 lakh for its base LXI version and the fully-loaded ZXI version goes for Rs 4.8 lakh, ex-showroom. The Beat undercuts it on both accounts by a massive Rs 50,000. The same goes for the comfy Hyundai i10 Kappa, which the Beat will now have squarely in its sights. The i10 has contributed majorly in fortifying Hyundai’s position in India, GM should hope that Beat will do the same for it in this lucrative segment. http://hallosushant.blogspot.com/
While the Fiat Grande Punto 1.2 and the Tata Indica Vista Safire come much closer to the Beat in terms of pricing, both may be found lacking when it comes to performance and the visual excitement of the Beat's futuristic exteriors and interiors.
Truly then, a threat from GM India to Beat 'em all? Read a comprehensive road test of the car in the January issue of the ZigWheels magazine, and a comparison test with the best of the lot is on its way soon too! http://hallosushant.blogspot.com/
With a 1.2 litre unit under the hood pushing out 79 PS, it's pretty nippy as well. The Beat is launched in 3 variants.
- The base PS version equipped with power steering is priced at Rs. 3.34 lakh.
- The LS with power windows and a spoiler comes at Rs. 3.54 lakh.
- While the top of the range LT with climate control, integrated audio, ABS and optional airbags is priced at a bargain 3.94 lakh (all prices ex-showroom Delhi).
- The fully loaded version with ABS and two airbags will retail for Rs 4.3 lakh
While the Fiat Grande Punto 1.2 and the Tata Indica Vista Safire come much closer to the Beat in terms of pricing, both may be found lacking when it comes to performance and the visual excitement of the Beat's futuristic exteriors and interiors.
Truly then, a threat from GM India to Beat 'em all? Read a comprehensive road test of the car in the January issue of the ZigWheels magazine, and a comparison test with the best of the lot is on its way soon too! http://hallosushant.blogspot.com/
Chevrolet's Beat
THE BEAT’S 1.2-LITRE RIVALS:
Maruti Suzuki Ritz Price: Rs 3.9-4.8 lakh
The most sprightly performer of the lot, the Ritz enjoys the top position of the lot thanks to its new K-series petrol engine and Maruti’s rock-solid reputation in India.
http://hallosushant.blogspot.com/The most sprightly performer of the lot, the Ritz enjoys the top position of the lot thanks to its new K-series petrol engine and Maruti’s rock-solid reputation in India.
Hyundai i10 Kappa Price: Rs 3.9-4.9 lakh
A great all-round city small car, the i10 yet retains its upmarket and luxurious appeal that have seen its sales soar. This will be the one the Beat will look to beat before the others.
http://hallosushant.blogspot.com/A great all-round city small car, the i10 yet retains its upmarket and luxurious appeal that have seen its sales soar. This will be the one the Beat will look to beat before the others.
Tata Indica Vista Price: Rs 3.4-4.2 lakh
Tata Motors’ charge towards contemporary began with the Vista. It still offers one of the best combinations of space and value for money, but many may fall for the Beat’s glitz.
http://hallosushant.blogspot.com/Tata Motors’ charge towards contemporary began with the Vista. It still offers one of the best combinations of space and value for money, but many may fall for the Beat’s glitz.
Fiat Grande Punto Price: Rs 4.0 lakh
The largest and probably the best looking hatch of the lot, the 1.2-litre Punto was the hidden card in Fiat’s sleeve. Well-priced but underpowered, this is still a dark horse for the segment.
The largest and probably the best looking hatch of the lot, the 1.2-litre Punto was the hidden card in Fiat’s sleeve. Well-priced but underpowered, this is still a dark horse for the segment.
http://hallosushant.blogspot.com/
SRC: TOI DT
