Beyond Nano? A-Star

Glamour. Galore. Appreciation. Applause. Maruti-Suzuki’s concept car A-Star’s launch at the Auto Expo (besides Nano’s) somehow became symbolic of India’s arrival at the automotive scene. This Indian brainchild looks stormy, dangerous, menacing and full of raw appeal.

Powered by a 3-cylinder, 1.0L aluminium petrol engine, this front wheel drive, Euro-V compatible, A-segment hatch will be produced out of Maruti’s Manesar plant and will be exported to Europe. The car, in all probability, should be available in India by end of this year and in Europe by spring 2009.

A-Star’s design is bold with large wheelarches, distinctive strong lines and a body language that screams “dynamic” all over the place. This car, when it materializes on the streets, should be priced around Rs. 3,00,000 according to educated guesses.

Suzuki’s move to produce the car for international market out of India seems like a move pronounced by its urgent need to retain its 50% share of Indian car market. That explains introduction of not only A-Star but also Splash and Kizashi by Maruti Suzuki.

Whatever the reasons, we are loving the attention. And all those boys out there planning on a new car, A-Star’s your man.

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