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Renault unveils new variant of Fluence
Binny Sharma
New Delhi
WITH plans to roll out five products by the end of year 2012, car maker Renault India launched a new diesel variant of its premium sedan ‘Fluence’ in the country, priced at Rs 15.2 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).
“Fluence was the first offering from Renault in India. This new upgraded variant is about our commitment to the Indian market and is a result of the feedback we received from our customers,” said Marc Nassif, managing director Renault India.
Powered by 1.5 litre diesel engine, Fluence will give a mileage of 20.4km per litre and will compete with the likes of Volkswagen Jetta, Skoda Laura and Toyota Corolla Diesel, which are priced between Rs 15.22 lakh and Rs 16.41 lakh.
“The next in line is our crossover Duster, which will be launched before Diwali, and it will be followed by one more product,” said Nassif.
He added that the company has targeted to sell a total of 30,000 cars in India in year 2012 as compared to about 1,500 units in 2011.
“All the products what we are launching will be assembled at its facility in Chennai. From 43 dealers last year we have plans to have around 100 dealers by the end of this year,” he informed.
While further talking about Renault-Nissan’s ultra-low-cost car project with Bajaj Auto, he said that Renault India’s hand are full with its existing priorities in the country.
“This project is being taken care of by the alliance at the global level and we (Renault India) are not at all concerned about it. Any decision will be announced by the alliance,” he said.
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The auto company is targeting sale of 30,000 cars in India this year
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“The new engine offers reduced load losses — thanks to an all new variable geometric turbo. The air intake path has been simplified to achieve more efficient turbo performance,” the company said.
In terms of interiors the car has features like rain and light sensors, rear parking sensors, smart access card entry, engine start/stop button, electrically foldable outer rear view mirrors, four speaker music system with bluetooth connectivity, cruise control and 530 litre of boot space.
The company had launched the Fluence in May 2011. The company currently offers three models in the Indian market including Fluence, SUV Koleos and compact car Pulse which are manufactured at its alliance plant located on the outskirts of Chennai with a capacity of 2 lakh units per annum.
(With agency inputs)
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