27 October,2009 09:12 AM IST | | Chetan R
As gung-ho GM launches Cheverolet Cruze in city, the question is will it be able to ward off the competition in a burgeoning car market
The much-awaited new luxury sedan from General Motors (GM), Chevrolet Cruze, is being introduced in the city today.
As the only sedan to be launched so far this year hits the roads of Bangalore, automobile experts believe it faces several challenges ahead.
One of GM's grand launches for this year, the Chevrolet Cruze has to overcome competition from recent entrants such as Tata Indigo Manza, Mahindra Xylo, Fiat Grande Punto and Honda Jazz, besides luxury car waiting to be launched.
But there is also a feeling that in its segment, the Cruze may push aside others like Toyota Altis, Honda Civic, Skoda Laura and Volkswagen Jetta to make space for itself.
"Chevrolet Cruze is one of most anticipated cars of the year and may do well in its segment," said M R Indresh, an automobile expert. "However, with more luxury cars lined up for launch, it's going to be a testing time for the Cruze."
The Bangalore test
To come in the sedan sports diesel variant initially, the luxury sedan is priced between Rs 10.99 lakh and Rs 12.45 lakh in New Delhi. Its competitive pricing, stylish looks and fuel-efficient engine makes it one of the most anticipated cars this year.
"We have got an overwhelming response across the nation," said P Balendran, vice president, GM India. "We hope to receive the same response in Bangalore. Our expectations are high on the Cruze."
Having bagged orders for over 1,500 units, GM hopes to increase the segment volume from 35,000 to 45,000 units this financial year.
But experts doubt it will be all smooth sailing ahead for the Cruze.
Besides well accepted recent launches that include Honda Jazz, Fiat Grande Punto, Tata Indigo Manza and SUVs like Mahindra Xylo this year, there will be competition from new launches in various segments that are priced in the same range as the Cruze.
These new challengers for road space in Bangalore will come in the shape of Toyota Altis Diesel, Tata Indicruz, Toyota Prius, Hyundai Avante, Volkswagen Beetle, Skoda Fabia Combi and Fiat Bravo.
"A series of launches is certainly a challenge to the Cruze," said Sanjay Kumar N, an automobile consultant.
"Moreover, not many Chevrolet models have made an impact in our market so far. So it will be a real test for the Chevy Cruze, which is coming with big expectations."
Confident package
Its makers find the changing times with so many new launches lined up ideal and encouraging for introducing the Cruze.
They say that besides a fuel-efficient engine and stylish looks, the sedan sport's fuel efficiency, will make it a leader in its segment.
"This is the ideal time as the competition is on," said Balendran. "The improving economic condition, consumer satisfaction levels and the festival season are on our side."
The GM India vive president was gung-ho about the Cruze brushing aside competition.
"The Cruze diesel variant comes at a price that is lower by about Rs 1.5 lakh compared to its contenders in the segment Toyota Altis, Honda Civic, Skoda Laura and Volkswagen Jetta, which are petrol variants," said Balendran. "The Cruze has an efficiency of over 18 kmpl, while others range between 11-12 kmpl. The power and styling of Cruze will certainly redefine the segment."
