Renault Scala Due For Diwali 2012 Launch In India (Upcoming Cars)

WHEN: November  2012
HOW MUCH: Rs 6 - 9 lakh
ENGINES: 1.5-litre 85 PS petrol, 1.6-litre 104 PS diesel
COMPETITION: Honda City, Nissan Sunny, Hyundai Verna

French carmaker Renault will soon be launching its second sedan in India – Renault Scala. Riding high on the success of its compact SUV Duster which received an impressive opening, Renault is looking to extend their success story with the launch of the Scala this Diwali.

Similar to the Renault Pulse - Nissan Micra saga, the Renault Scala is basically a rebadged version of the Nissan Sunny. With respect to external appearance, the Scala will be based on the Nissan Sunny with some cosmetic face-lift which is likely to include a new front grille and bumper, and a mild re-styling of the tail lamps, which will help to bring the Scala more in line with Renault's design language.

This also means that in all likelihood, the Scala will be powered by the same 1.5 litre 85 PS diesel engine that does duty in the Nissan Sunny. For the petrol variant, Renault will use the 1.6 litre petrol engine which has just been introduced in the Duster, albeit with a different set of gear ratios.

When Renault started its operations in India, they had committed to launch five new cars in India. The Fluence was the first product followed by the Pulse, Koleos and Duster. The Scala will be the fifth model to complete Renault's product line up in India.

Renault India could launch the new Scala with a price tag above the Nissan Sunny. Renault believes it is a premium car brand when compared with Nissan and intends to keep its products slightly more expensive than similar Nissan cars in India. The Renault Scala's price in India is expected to range between Rs 6 lakh and Rs 9 lakh, ex-showroom. A minimum of two variants each in diesel and petrol are likely to be offered.

Renault is looking forward to launch the Scala this Diwali and would want to cash in on the festive spirit to register impressive intial bookings.