The Dacia / Renault Sandero hatchback looks ideal for the Indian market. Will M&M bring this car to India in 2009-10? Yes, we think so!
While the Mahindra-Renault Logan sedan has gotten off to a relatively slow start in the Indian market, M&M is not about to give up anytime soon. In fact, according to some reports, the company may soon be looking at the Dacia Sandero hatchback, which could come to India by 2010.
First shown at the Geneva Motor Show this year, the Sandero was designed as an inexpensive hatchback for Europe. The car is also being sold in the South American market as the Renault Sandero. The Sandero is based on the same B0 platform as the Logan, which should make it reasonably easy for M&M to launch the car in India.
It’s a widely accepted fact that any auto manufacturer in India who aspires to go for large volumes must have a value-for-money compact hatchback in its lineup. And the Sandero could be just that car for Mahindra.
Abroad, the Sandero is available with a range of 1.4- and 1.6-litre petrol engines, as well as two 1.5-litre common-rail diesels. For India, M&M could possibly look at the 1.4 petrol and 1.5 diesel engines, both tuned for maximum fuel-economy and perhaps with the option of LPG or CNG compatibility.
With its spacious cabin, rugged build quality and comfortable ride, the Mahindra-Renault Sandero, if priced at around Rs 4.5 lakh, should be in a good position to take on cars like the Hyundai Getz, Chevrolet U-VA, Maruti Swift and Fiat Palio.
