Many companies are fighting to capture the small car segment in India because small car segment accounts for nearly 70 percent of total new car sales in India. Maruti and Hyundai are dominating this segment. The segment is primarily dominated by models such as the Maruti Ritz, and the Maruti Swift, the Hyundai i10 and i20 and the Santro Xing.

The Japanese car makers like Honda and Toyota are making their way in to this Indian small car segment and looking to capture the market. Honda may introduce the Brio; this compact car is expected to come around September 2011. The Brio will be according to the Honda’s concept of ‘man maximum, machine minimum’. Toyota gears up to launch a compact version of its Etios sedan, the Toyota Etios Liva. The car is going to be released in the first half of 2011 and consists of a 1200 cc petrol engine, Etios Liva may be backed up by a diesel powerhouse later on.

The Indian car maker Maruti is also gearing up to introduce luxury sedan, the Kizashi, while 2011 is also likely to see a new Verna from Hyundai and a new Safari from Tata. Maruti also seems to be planning a new version of its ever popular compact model, the Swift. American auto maker General Motors is scheduled to launch a diesel version of its stylish, eye-catching mini, the Beat in 2011. BMW may likely introduce the new X3 in the SUV category. Audi the German car makers expected to expand its Indian offerings with the new A8 sedan and the Audi A7 sport back.