United Motors launched the 800cc Bravo hatchback in September last year, just a week after Pak Suzuki announced to officially discontinue the hot-selling Mehran.
Related: United Bravo- From Leak to Launch
Known as one of the most anticipated cars in Pakistan, the Bravo became a craze on social media even before it was launched primarily due to its attractive appearance and equipment on offer. Furthermore being the cheapest available car it offered a lot which Pak Suzuki failed to provide with their decades old Mehran.
Ironically however, even a year after being launched; the Bravo is yet to step out of Punjab. Initially the company had only one dealership each in Lahore, Islamabad and Multan and two in Faisalabad. Now according to company website, United has 10 dealerships– 3 in Lahore, 2 in Faisalabad and 1 each in Islamabad, Sargodha, Vehari, Multan and Jhelum, but is yet to make an appearance in any other province.
Related: United Bravo Does 0-100 km/h in 42.5 seconds
When launched, United Bravo carried a price tag of PKR 8.5 lac, now however the hatchback is available for PKR 9.25 lac since exchange rate fluctuations and added FED has taken its toll on its price. Powered by replica 800cc Suzuki F8B engine, matched to the same 4-speed transmission, the United Bravo offers features such as air conditioner, electric power steering, power windows, interactive multimedia system, reversing camera, central locking, fog lamps, alloy wheels and foldable key.
Another Chinese hatchback powered by the same engine and transmission is going to be launched in our market in near future. Regal Automobiles are in process of introducing the 800cc Price Pearl hatchback that will go head on against the United Bravo.
Related: First Official Photos- Prince Pearl 800cc Hatchback
Prince Pearl is expected to create troubles for United Bravo since both fall in the same price segment, carries the same engine and transmission and offer similar level of equipment. But as per reports the Prince Pearl will be available with an automatic transmission option too.
However it is yet to be seen if this competition is going to be limited to Punjab only or will reach the rest of the country too. United is taking a long time to make its presence in major cities of Pakistan and perhaps this delay might cost them big when there are more competitors in the market. Perhaps due to very limited production capacity, the company is contended selling the units in selected cities only. For those of you living elsewhere, just keep your fingers crossed and wait!
Related: Is it Logical to Compare Suzuki Alto with United Bravo or Prince Pearl?
On papers, the Bravo might have replaced Mehran as the cheapest car available in Pakistan, but due to the lack of presence in the country one cannot simply consider it an ideal replacement. Pak Suzuki has launched the Alto 660cc in July this year and as there is no other true competition around, the Alto despite being overpriced has quickly become the bestselling car in Pakistan.
Newcomers such as United or Prince will have to ensure proper nationwide presence if they want to be successful in a longer run, however from the looks of it these small scale automakers are contended selling their units in few selected cities only.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
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