Jobs cut. Budgets slashes. Forced production slowdowns. The auto industry has, internationally, faced a traumatic year, that has seen a huge dip in sales because of a double-pronged whammy -- the rise in fuel prices in the early part of 2008 and the economic crisis in the latter half, leading a steep fall in automobile sales.
The launch of these exciting new cars may bring joy to their balance sheets, but will these beauties be available in India?
Ford Fiesta
The Ford Fiesta, already on sale in Europe and South Africa, is the first in a series of small, fuel-efficient cars developed for Ford's new global car platforms.
The Fiesta, which has seen a strong sales start in Europe, is available in both the hatchback and sedan version. It is expected to go on sale in China in the first quarter of 2009 and in the US in early 2010.
The new version of the Fiesta has many changes, including new detailing on front and rear lights, revamped bumpers, side mouldings and door mirrors and a bright new colour palette.
New technology like power folding mirrors, automatic and 'home-safe' headlights, automatic windscreen wipers, Bluetooth with voice control, Trip computer, MP3 player connectivity and the electronic stability programme have been introduced.
The Fiesta also boasts of increased fuel efficiency and lower emissions. Its engine range comprises four 16-valve Duratec petrol and two Duratorq TDCi diesel engine choices. Besides the sub-100g Fiesta ECOnetic, they are also introducing a 1.6-litre Duratec Ti-VCT engine in the Zetec S model for driving enthusiasts.
The price of the Fiesta in the US market has not been announced, but is expected to be less than $15,000; experts estimate the pricing will begin at $12,000 and cost up to $16,000 loaded. In the French market, the Fiesta’s price range begins at $17,570.
Information: ford.com
Image: Ford Fiesta
Also read: New cars on Indian roads
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