For long now Indian tastes have been evolving. We are no longer satisfied by Plain Janes but want Glamorous Glendas instead, all the more better if they are blondes. The signs were there to see way back when Daewoo wanted to launch the Racer but had to switch to the Cielo instead at the last moment. But it was long thought that we would choose a more stylish and contemporary car but would not pay extra for those assets. That was proved wrong by the Maruti-Suzuki Swift which not only got a premium for its contemporary and stylish looks but also went ahead to forge a new segment altogether – that of a premium hatchback, which has since been taken even further and higher by the likes of the Hyundai i20.

But, entry level cars aren’t supposed to follow this logic. They are supposed to be the tried and tested hand-me-downs from higher segments, ageing warriors with nip and tucks but no money for plastic surgery. Emission norms have necessitated better and more efficient engines but that’s where the buck stops. And we have the Maruti Alto at the top of the leaderboard without any significant changes in looks or character since it was first launched over a decade ago. Since then, the new Alto has come-in as the A-star, a full segment above its older sibling.

The Rapid comes in three trim levels – the Active, the Ambition and the Elegance. Also, all three versions can be bought with either a diesel or a petrol engine coupled to a 5-speed manual gearbox. In addition, the Ambition and the Elegance can also be ordered with a 6-speed conventional automatic ‘box.

- The Rapid is heavily based on the VW Vento. So, if you have ever been inside the VW, you will find the Rapid all too familiar. In fact, it also comes with Vento’s unique feature of adjusting the front passenger seat from the rear.

- The pricing for the Rapid is expected to be close to Rs 6 lakh.

- Both the petrol and diesel engine displace the same engine capacity of 1.6-litre, and make an identical power output of 105bhp. The torque naturally is much higher on the diesel.

- The Rapid will be competition for the likes of the Swift Dzire, the Etios and the Sunny rather than the Vento.

Renault and Nissan share the same plant in Chennai to manufacture their cars for the Indian car market. The two automakers have a global joint-venture to share their technology as well. Renault now plans to launch a new small car, which will be based on the Micra platform.

- The Renault small car is built with the qualities of the Nissan Micra. The feature will feature most of the features of a premium hatchback. This should include safety features like airbags and other important features which are included in most of the premium hatchbacks.

Specs (Speculated)
Engine: 1.2-litre, three cylinder petrol engine
Power: 75bhp

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