The Hindustan Lancer (CJO) 2.0 GLXd, introduced in 2001, was a significant offering in the Indian automotive market. This variant, powered by a 2.0-liter diesel engine producing 68 horsepower, served as an entry-level option within the broader Lancer (CJO) lineup. The CJO Lancer represented Hindustan Motors’ adaptation of the Mitsubishi Lancer, designed to provide a relatively modern and fuel-efficient sedan to Indian consumers. It gained traction in a market increasingly favoring diesel options due to fuel costs and availability. The GLXd trim specifically focused on practicality and affordability, appealing to a wide range of customers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hindustan |
| Model | Lancer |
| Generation | Lancer (CJO) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 GLXd (68 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2001 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 16.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 16.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 15.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 155 km/h (96.31 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16.9 kg/Hp, 59.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.3 kg/Nm, 107 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 68 Hp @ 4500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 34 Hp/l |
| Torque | 123 Nm @ 3000 rpm (90.72 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.7 mm (3.26 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 22.4:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Kerb Weight | 1150 kg (2535.32 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 420 l (14.83 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4290 mm (168.9 in.) |
| Width | 1690 mm (66.54 in.) |
| Height | 1430 mm (56.3 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2500 mm (98.43 in.) |
| Front track | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 155/65 R13 |
| Wheel rims size | 13 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Lancer GLXd’s powertrain centered around its 1998cc inline-four diesel engine. While modest in output by contemporary standards, the engine was engineered for fuel efficiency and long-term durability. It incorporated a diesel commonrail fuel injection system, a relatively advanced feature for the Indian market at the time, which improved combustion efficiency and reduced engine noise compared to older diesel designs. The engine featured two valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 22.4:1, typical for a diesel engine. The engine’s relatively low horsepower of 68 hp at 4500 rpm and 123 Nm (90.72 lb-ft) of torque at 3000 rpm underscored the emphasis on economy over performance. The engine was mounted transversely in the front of the vehicle, powering the front wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 GLXd, equipped with its 68 hp engine and five-speed manual transmission, provided a driving experience focused on practicality. Acceleration was unhurried, taking 16.2 seconds to reach 100 km/h. The engine’s torque delivery was relatively consistent, offering sufficient pulling power for everyday driving, but lacking the responsiveness found in higher-output variants. The five-speed manual transmission was well-suited to the engine’s characteristics, allowing drivers to maintain the engine within its optimal power range. Compared to potential future versions with more powerful engines, the GLXd prioritized fuel economy and ease of driving over sporty performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GLXd trim level was positioned as the base model in the Lancer CJO range. Standard equipment generally included essential features such as power steering, air conditioning, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard design was functional rather than luxurious. Optional extras, depending on the model year and regional availability, could include power windows, central locking, and upgraded audio systems. The GLXd was designed as an affordable and practical option, and therefore lacked many of the premium features found in higher trim levels.
Chassis & Braking
The Lancer CJO featured a conventional chassis design with coil spring suspension at both the front and rear. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. The vehicle was equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS), enhancing safety. The steering system utilized a rack and pinion setup with hydraulic power assistance. The relatively light curb weight of 1150 kg (2535.32 lbs) helped to offset the effects of the engine’s modest power output.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hindustan Lancer CJO 2.0 GLXd was generally well-received in the Indian market as a reliable and fuel-efficient sedan. Critics acknowledged its practicality and affordability, but also noted its lack of significant performance. Compared to other diesel sedans available at the time, the Lancer GLXd offered a good balance of features and price. It was frequently compared to models like the Tata Indigo and the Mahindra City, offering a more modern design and potentially better build quality, albeit at a slightly higher price point. Fuel economy was a key selling point, and the GLXd consistently delivered competitive figures for its class.
Legacy
The Hindustan Lancer CJO, and specifically the 2.0 GLXd variant, holds a place in Indian automotive history as a relatively modern and dependable sedan that offered a compelling value proposition. Although Hindustan Motors eventually discontinued production of the Lancer, the car remains popular among enthusiasts and can still be seen on Indian roads today. The 2.0 diesel engine, while not renowned for exceptional performance, proved to be durable and relatively straightforward to maintain. In the used car market, the Lancer GLXd is often sought after for its affordability and practicality, making it a viable option for budget-conscious buyers.
