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Lancer 1.8 INVEX- for the spirited lot
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Source: Overdrive
Edition : March 04
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| Hindustan Motors recently rolled out the 1.8-litre variant of its C-segment car, the Lancer 1.8 INVEX. With it the company hopes the sales of its flagship model will see significant improvement, which hitherto have been nothing to write home about. A launch always generates excitement in the market which more or less translates into better sales, a reason most manufacturers introduce variants of existing models periodically. HM too has done the same for this Mitsubishi offering by introducing Limited Editions and yearly upgrades in the past. It however has not translated into sizeable improvement in volumes. But with the INVEX, which is priced at Rs 8.95 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), HM would be looking to attract buyers from both higher C- and entry-level D-segments, and add volumes to its sales kitty. Lately both these segments have witnessed good growth. The company plans to sell 1500 units of the new car in its first year. |
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 The car's 1.8-litre, SOHC petrol engine in the meantime develops 122PS of peak power and a maximum torque of 157Nm, propelling it to a company claimed max speed of 175kmph. The engine is coupled to a Man-o-matic transmission, which can be used as both manual and automatic, and offers a choice between sports or autopilot mode, depending upon whether the driver is looking for an active driving experience or of the more relaxed kind. The car also comes with Intelligent and Innovative Electronic Control System (INVECS) that adapts itself to varying driving styles. On the exterior, INVEX's new look radiator grille helps distinguish it from its lower capacity siblings. The interiors include a 3-spoke leather or wood steering wheel and new door trim with fabric inserts.
 Hindustan Motors will look to play the 'affordability' card to lure in buyers for the 1.8 Lancer, by positioning it as a D-segment offering with strong performance and good fuel economy, made available at a lower price. It however needs to be seen whether the INVEX can pull one out of the hat and give HM a healthier part of the sales pie.
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