Honda Cars India to Skoda, automakers bullish on 'lower D' sedans

Automakers hope the segment, priced between Rs 1.5 million and Rs 2 million, will now bring growth

Five years ago, when automakers shifted from small cars to compact sport utility vehicles, most firms scrambled to jump on to the bandwagon. This move pushed new cars in the market that today include the likes of Hyundai Creta, Renault Duster, Ford Ecosport, Maruti Brezza, Jeep Compass, and Maruti S-Cross. 

Now, the ‘Lower D’ or LD segment — which the industry defines as a sedan that costs between Rs 1.5 million and Rs 2 million, is longer than 4.5 metres, and powered by an engine of 1.8 litre or larger — could be at a similar tipping point despite being