Mercedes benze SLS AMG Roadstar

If the SLS AMG coupé wasn’t extreme enough, Mercedes-Benz has just revealed the SLS AMG Roadster, which is scheduled for an India launch towards the end of 2012. The Roadster loses the coupé’s gullwing doors and instead features new frameless doors with conventional hinges. Its three-layer roof comes with a glass rear window and can be opened on the fly at speeds upto 50kph. Weight gain has been well restricted with the Roadster weighing just 40kg more than its coupé sibling. Performance from the 563bhp 6.2-litre V8 will be staggering. The figures say it all – 0-100kph in a claimed 3.8sec and a top speed of 321kph. The Roadster won’t come cheap though.

Factfile:

Engine: 6.2-litre petrol V8

Power/Torque: 563bhp/66.3kgm

Kerb weight: 1735kg

L/W/H: 4638/1261/2075mm

Expected: Late-2012

Price: Rs 2.4 crore

New Mini Cooper

   

The epitome of retro cool, Mini is finally coming to India. Indian market dynamics might suggest small cars with premium price tags won’t work here but BMW-owned Mini thinks otherwise. The manufacturer sees a big opportunity in India and is even carrying out feasibility studies for local assembly at BMW’s Chennai plant, so prices will be far more affordable than VW’s fully imported Beetle. 

Mini will kickstart its Indian venture with the launch of the Cooper hatchback. The design is classic Mini and the retro interiors with the big dials look the part too. A four-seater only in name, minimal rear seat space makes this three-door hatchback best suited for two occupants. 

The Cooper hatchback will be followed by the convertible and also the interesting Countryman crossover. All Minis will come with 1.6 petrol and diesel engines.

Engines: 1.6-litre petrol, 1.6-litre diesel

Power/Torque: 122bhp/16.3kgm,

112bhp/25.5kgm

Kerb weight: 1165kg

L/W/H: 3723/1913/1407mm

Expected: Mid-2012 

Price: Rs 12 lakh