Japanese carmaker Honda is planning to launch its first diesel car in India during the first half of 2013 with rising petrol prices pushing sales of these cars down in the country.

The company said that it had earlier plannned to launch the diesel versions by 2014, but the hike in petrol prices has pushed the company to launch the diesel cars ahead its plans.

According to the plan, Honda Siel Cars India is anticipated to bring in diesel models of its Brio and a Brio sedan, powered by either 1.2-litre or 1.5-litre engines during the first half of 2013, followed by City diesel in October the same year.

Honda Siel is also planning to launch the new Jazz hatchback with a diesel powertrain.

The carmaker has sold 54,427 cars during 2011-12, reporting 8.46% decline when compared to the 2010-11, while has sold 28,731 units during January-April 2012, marking

Honda sold 28,731 units during January-April 2012, 71% more than a year earlier, mainly on the success of the Brio.

Further, by 2015, the company is also planning to launch six new cars, including re-launches.