When we talk about performance cars, the first image that comes to auto-aficionados' minds is the Mercedes-AMG cars or BMW M division cars. Both German manufacturer launched many high-performance cars in 2015. There were some other manufacturers as well. Fiat launched its high-performance Abarth brand in India with the 595 Competizione, followed by Abarth Punto. The year 2016 also promises some performance car other than Mercedes-Benz and BMW.
Volkswagen Polo GTI
Volkswagen India is expected to launch the Polo GTI in March 2016. The fourth generation of the powerful version of the Polo, the GTI comes with a 1.8-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine producing maximum power of 189bhp and maximum torque of 320Nm, mated to a seven-speed DSG transmission. The GTI will run from 0-100 kmph in 6.7 seconds, before reaching the top speed of 236kmph.
The Polo GTI will lock horns with Fiat Punto Abarth, that develops 145bhp from a 14.-litre T-JET engine. Polo GTI will be sold as a CBU unit in India and the estimated price is around Rs 20 lakh.
Ford Mustang
The iconic sports car will make its way to India as Ford introduces the right-hand drive version in its latest sixth generation. The muscle car comes with independent rear suspension for the first time. Ford India is expected to launch the Mustang in three engine options: the lower-capacity 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine developing 305bhp, the 3.7-litre V6 developing 300bhp, and the popular 5.0-litre V8 engine that generates 420bhp. All three engines will be available with a choice of six-speed manual and automatic gearboxes. The pricing is expected to be around Rs 50 lakh.
Nissan GT-R
Nissan's sports car, the GT-R, also known as Godzilla, is gearing up for its India, imminent at the Auto Expo 2016. The Nissan GT-R is expected to be priced around Rs 3 crore, and the allocation for India is reportedly just five units. The four-seater sports GT-R with two doors will be imported to the country as a completely built unit. Godzilla is be powered by a 3.8-litre twin-turbo V6, which belts out 542bhp at 6,400 rpm and 632 Nm of torque in the range of 3,200-5,800 rpm. The power will be transmitted to all four wheels via a six-speed dual clutch transmission.
Skoda Octavia RS
RS versions of previous-generation Octavia and Laura have had a healthy fan following in India. RS fans are eagerly waiting for the launch of the new Octavia RS, and many reports say Skoda India is serious about it. The performance version of the Octavia will be powered by an in-line four-cylinder 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine that develops 217bhp at 4,500-6,200rpm and 350Nm of torque at 1,500-4,400rpm, mated to a six-speed DSG gearbox with Tiptronic manual gear changing. The car is capable of reaching 100kmph in 6.9 seconds, and has a top speed of 245kmph. Price expected: Rs 30-35 lakh.
