Renault Modus expected to launch end October

The Indian small car buyer, already spoilt for choice, with carmakers plying him with all the goodies they can, is about to get one more to indulge his taste.

If the market grapevine is to be believed, the offering from Renault Nissan, the Renault Modus would be unveiled at the Indian Grand Prix in Delhi.

According to industry experts, the new Modus hatchback is likely to use the diesel Nissan Micra engine, which could mean one of the 1.2 litre petrol engine and the 1.5 liter dCi engine from the Fluence sedan.

In India, the Modus would compete with the likes of Honda Jazz, Ford Figo, and Hyundai i20. Globally, the Modus is the first small car to be awarded 5 Star Euro NCAP (car safety) rating.

The car has been seen several times under test on the streets of Chennai, nor far from the Renault Nissan plant. Though, in the international car markets, the Modus is offered in two variants, Modus and Grand Modus, it seems, only the Modus hatchback would see an Indian car market launch initially.

Renault, which promised to introduce five cars in the market over an 18 month period has come out with the Fluence sedan, and Koleos this year, apart from its premium hatchback, Micra.

Until now, Nissan Motors India had not been able to make much headway in the very competitive small car segment but this may change with the Renault Modus.