At present Maruti Eeco holds monopoly in the segment, because prices for the Eeco are very economical. This undoubtedly makes the Eeco the cheapest point A-to-B mode if you want to transport more than 5 people with a luggage.
It has been a couple of year since GM India planned to induct their Chinese partner Wuling’s product range in India. Wuling is unstoppable in Chinese market especially in MPV segment. Now CarWale.com/Auto Bild posted spied pictures of GM-Wuling HongTu (CodenameN200) spotted by Mr Sidh. As per the sources, it’s due for a 2014 Auto Expo launch.
The Hongtu (N200) with its 2500mm wheelbase will directly compete with the Maruti Eeco. The Hongtu comes powered with the 1.2-litre 85bhp petrol engine which qualifies it (along with a sub-four-metre length) as a small car which entitles it to an excise saving in India. The rear-wheel drive Hongtu comes with a five speed manual transmission. The base variant has rear leaf spring suspension while the top variant gets oil springs.
The Wuling could match its Indian competitors for price and possibly beat them on space but the key question is how good will it is in an environment where a solid service network and minimal downtime is essential?
Also see – GM To Enter Light Commercial Vehicle Segment by 2011 End
Source – CarWale.com
