Chevo Blogger: October 2015

Archive for October 2015

RE: Mercedes-Benz C450 AMG 4Matic: Driven

"RE: Mercedes-Benz C450 AMG 4Matic: Driven
Thursday 5th March 2015
Mercedes-Benz C450 AMG 4Matic: Driven
Mercedes' new AMG sub-brand debuts with a 367hp four-wheel drive C-Class - PH takes a drive
Back when we first drove the new W205 generation C-Class we entertained ourselves on a launch event populated with four-cylinder diesels by jumping in a twin-turbo V6 , confidently predicting such a model would never make it to the UK.

, confidently predicting such a model would never make it to the UK. Thankfully we were dead wrong.

PH fast wagon bias further reinforced

The C450 AMG 4Matic is that car with bells on and will be sold in the UK, giving the C-Class a mid-way sporting model between the 'civilian' range and full-on AMG version. Think of it as Mercedes' equivalent to 'S' Audis or M Performance BMWs and you get the idea, AMG offering just enough technical and marketing garnish to elevate it above the hoi polloi without treading on the toes of its own senior product.

Big news for this car is an upgrade over the 333hp of the C400 we drove on that launch event to a more than satisfactory 367hp - same as a C55 AMG of a couple of generations ago, fact spotters. 122.5hp per litre in a 'junior' performance product is pretty astonishing too. Being twin turbo it's also got bags of torque - 383lb ft - and will clock a sub-five 0-62 while recording official figures of 178g/km and 37.1mpg (180g/km and 36.6mpg for the wagon). Oh, and it finally brings Mercedes' long-standing 4Matic four-wheel drive to a UK market C-Class. And this is AMG-lite?

Steering and suspension also get AMG touch

Don't call me junior
Up to a point, yes. And it's more than just a souped up engine, featuringaluminium suspension components with beefed up steering knuckles, increased negative camber front and back and firmer mounting bushings to improve response. Three-stage adjustable AMG Ride Control dampers also feature. It also gets the C63's linear ratio steering rack in place of the progressive one of the standard car.

Aesthetically and practically speaking in estate form it makes for an especially appealing package, albeit against some pretty accomplished competition in the shape of the widely acclaimed 333hp Audi S4 and unexpectedly impressive 350hp. The 306hp BMW 335i and 340hpwould likely be on the same shopping list too. Other than the BMW and Jag all are four-wheel drive, all use forced induction six-cylinder engines and have automated gearbox options - an S Tronic dual-clutch in the Audi, six-speed slusher in the Volvo, seven-speed auto in the Mercedes and the all conquering eight-speed ZF automatic in the BMW and Jaguar.

Yes, it's got 'that' tablet style display...

Four-wheel drive aside the gearbox is a key difference between the C450 and C63 - though the latter also uses a version of the seven-speed gearbox it is connected to the engine by an automated wet clutch while the C450 uses a more traditional torque converter. This means an immediate softening of the power delivery and a more refined driving experience, as you'd expect of a non-AMG Mercedes.

Two sides to every story
There is decently responsive manual control if you want it via the paddles and, indeed, the mode-based transformation from wafty cruiser into something more aggressive is probably more dramatic than the AMG, which is pretty burly in its base setting. In Eco or Comfort modes the C450 feels like a fast Mercedes and is quiet, comfortable and understated. But nudge the rocker switch to Sport+ and it really comes alive, the steering firming up noticeably and the exhaust suddenly emitting ripples of contrived bangs and pops on the overrun. The engine sounds louder and more assertive too but, as AMG boss Tobias Moers confesses, has some help via the speakers. Not something you'll find in a full AMG model on his watch.

367hp twin-turbo V6 is punchy and smooth

As we found recently in the E400 it's very much a new-school direct-injected petrol and a little gruff and dieselly at low revs. But once it spins up it's a lot smoother and more pleasant than the current BMW turbo sixes and proves itself keen to rev out. It's strong too, boost picking up quickly and the power delivery rarely caught off guard. On the road it feels every bit as rapid as the numbers suggest while never threatening to steal the thunder of the '63.

Though rear-biased to the tune of 33:67 the four-wheel drive system makes the C450 resolutely neutral through corners where the C63 would be starting to transition into oversteer at comparable speeds. While we tested it on dry Portuguese roads you get the impression it would feel similarly secure on greasy winter ones back home, adding to the sense this is a fast car you can enjoy in all conditions. It also feels agile and nimble, which is some achievement given it's not a small car. The steering is light and positive, with more feel than the equivalent Audi but a more natural heft than the artificially weighty 3 Series. Here, and in damping feel, Mercedes has consistently bettered its German equivalents in recent years and even with four-wheel drive there's no noticeable corruption in steering feel.

Fine balance of sensible and speedy

AMG lite or Mercedes plus?
The interior is a lot more lavish in design, technology and ambience than the rather severe previous generation C-Class. Yes, it's got that controversial tablet-style screen seemingly tacked on top of the dashboard but Mercedes maintains this puts the information into the driver's eyeline and means the dash height in general can be reduced.

With the fleet friendly numbers, all-weather security and performance that would shame a full-fat AMG of just a couple of generations ago the C450 is a very appealing package. It won't scare the neighbours/domestic harmony/office car park and is a properly refined place to cover big miles. But on those occasions when you have the car to yourself it's also more than capable of putting a quiet grin on your face and carrying serious cross-country pace.

We'll have to wait though. LHD markets will get the car almost immediately but it won't arrive in the UK until next year, with pricing to be confirmed. For context an S4 Avant is £39,865 and a 335i Touring M Sport is £38,295 - the fully loaded V60 Polestar is just shy of £50K. Place your bets...

MERCEDES-BENZ C450 AMG 4MATIC
Engine: 2,996cc V6 twin-turbo
Transmission: 7-speed auto, four-wheel drive
Power (hp): 367@5,500-6,000rpm
Torque (lb ft): 383@2,000-4,200rpm
0-62mph: 4.9sec (Estate 5.0sec)
Top speed: 155mph (limited)
Weight: 1,615kg (Estate 1,690kg, both to EU without driver)
MPG: 37.1mpg (Estate 36.6mpg, both NEDC combined)
CO2: 178g/km (Estate 180g/km
Price: TBC

Porsche Launches Panamera Diesel Edition

Porsche has launched a new special edition of the Panamera diesel in India and it have been called the Porsche Panamera Diesel Edition.

Speaking about the car, Pavan Shetty, Director, of Porsche India, said: “The Panamera Diesel Edition is a thrilling four-door sports car that provides an abundance of driving pleasure, combined with styling accents that typify this specific model from Porsche. The range of additional equipment available as standard makes this premium model a truly attractive offering for our enthusiasts.”

The new car comes with cosmetic changes and new equipment. The exterior changes include high-glossy black trim strips on the side windows and door handles, standard 19-inch alloy wheels in Panamera Turbo II design and bi-xenon headlights operating the Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS). On the inside, the German car gets Black-Luxor Beige part-leather upholstery with the Porsche badge on all headrests, Sport Design steering wheel and door sill guards with “Edition” lettering. The equipment list includes Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system with a seven-inch touchscreen monitor combines audio, navigation and communication features and a 585 watt Bose Surround Sound System with 14 speakers. It also gets Adaptive Air Suspension with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), Park Assist (front and rear) including reversing camera, electric slide and tilt sunroof, soft close doors, 4-zone climate control and Power Steering Plus.

The Diesel Edition available for the Indian market is powered by a 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine producing 250 bhp between 3,800 and 4,400 rpm and 550 Nm of torque between 1,750 and 2,750 rpm. It is mated to an 8-speed Tiptronic S transmission. The car accelerates from a standstill to a 100 kmph in 6.8 seconds and goes on to a top speed of 244 kmph.

The Porsche Panamera Diesel Edition is available to order at all Porsche showrooms across the country. It has been priced at INR 1.04 crores (ex-showroom, Mumbai).

McLaren Announces Geneva Motor Show Line-Up; New Supercar To Be Showcased

McLaren has announced its line-up for the Geneva Motor Show next month.

McLaren has announced its line-up for the Geneva Motor Show next month. The line-up will include a brand new supercar from the Sports Series of cars. The other cars that will be on display will be a carbon fibre tribute to the McLaren P1, which looks stunning in the new blue paint, and a bespoke version of the 675LT Spider. Both the cars are built by McLaren Special Operations (MSO). The recently confirmed 650S GT3 racing car will also be on display.

The McLaren P1 is powered by a 3.8 litre turbocharged V8 engine and an electric motor. The total power output is 903 bhp and 900 Nm of torque. The drivetrain is mated to a 7-speed dual clutch transmission and power is sent to the rear wheels. The hypercar accelerates from a standstill to a 100 kmph in 2.8 seconds and it goes on to an electronically limited top speed of 350 kmph. The car returns 12 kms to a litre of fuel. It was shown at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show and it is a part of the ‘holy trinity’ of hypercars. Only 375 cars were built and production recently ended.

2016 Geneva Motor Show Bespoke MSO McLaren P1 Image Gallery

The McLaren 675LT Spider will make its debut at the show. The supercar is powered by a 3.8litre twin turbo V8 engine producing 666 bhp at 7,100 rpm and 700 Nm of torque between 5,000 to 6,500 rpm. It is mated to a 7-speed dual clutch automatic transmission. The supercar accelerates from a standstill to a 100 kmph in just 2.9 seconds and to 200 kmph in just 8.1 seconds and it goes on to a top speed of 326 kmph. The car returns 8.57 kms to a litre of fuel. It will be limited to 500 units and all of them have been sold.

2016 Geneva Motor Show Bespoke MSO McLaren 675LT Spider

The 650S GT3 is a race car that is based on the 650S supercar. The 2016 version of the race car was recently unveiled and it will make its debut at next month’s motor show. The car meets all the required FIA regulations.

2016 Geneva Motor Show McLaren 650S GT3 Race Car

The new supercar will be a part of the Sports Series. There is no information available on the new car. The Sport Series consists of the 540C Coupe and the 570S Coupe.

RE: Mercedes-AMG C63: Driven

Thursday 26th February 2015
Mercedes-AMG C63: Driven
AMG makes a 510hp RWD saloon feel an entirely sensible option - is that what we wanted though?

The first real test for the all-new Mercedes-AMG C63 comes before it's even turned a wheel. In fact, it comes when you first twist the key., complex multi-configurable driver modes, engine downsizing - all of this we can cope with. But if it doesn't sound right it's over before it's begun.

Saloon is cool; wagon is where it's at though

Chu-chu-chu-BOOM! OK, there it is. Refinement in this new C-Class is, of course, excellent. But in AMG's hands bass-led NVH has been turned into a positive attribute that fizzes and tingles from the tips of your fingers to the base of your gut. Suffice to say, it's not coming from the speakers either.

Some stats before we pull away and head to the Portimao circuit where, in a handy coincidence, we first drove the BMW M3 and M4 not that long ago. We'll try and keep this as brief as possible... From a base price of £59,795 in standard 476hp trim the C63 saloon has already landed a pretty hefty blow to the M3's chin. But it's the 510hp punch to the gut of the £66,545 C63 S that'll really leave it reeling. Yes, that's nearly £10K more than the starting price of an M3. But just look at the numbers.

An M3 has 431hp and 406lb ft of torque. And never does it feel anything other than rampant. But even in 'entry-level' form the C63 has 476hp, 479lb ft of torque and the benefit of another litre of cubic capacity, not to mention a couple of extra cylinders. Go all-in and opt for the S and it gets even more serious, 510hp and a frankly ludicrous 516lb ft of torque instantly settling any Top Trumps disputes before they've even started. It's a 'don't even try it son' swagger that has served AMG well over the years, even at the risk of appearing a little one-dimensional.

Yes, it's expensive. But the cachet of sharing an engine with a proper supercar - as the previous C63 did with the SLS - is the kind of emotional appeal that sets the C63 apart. And has ensured AMG C-Classes have been at the heart of the tuning division's range since 1993's C36, its very first official model since being taken in by Mercedes-Benz proper.

Can it get its power down better than the M3?

S Express
Worries for this new-age AMG would centre on its new focus on configurable gizmos and high-tech gadgetry. The W204 generation car was a master of simplicity - sod-off engine, passive dampers, put it into D and let rip. As in the GT though you can't go anywhere in the new C63 without first navigating your way through five driver modes - one a fully configurable combination to mix and match your choice of the other four - before shrugging your shoulders and deciding 'Comfort' is probably the best appetiser for the initial motorway hack.

We've bagged an S Wagon for this first stint, gold calipers behind black wheels revealing a first for an AMG C-Class in the shape of ceramic brakes. A £4,285 option, these can be added to an already impressive standard spec that includes dynamic engine mounts, three-way adjustable dampers, a fully active electronically controlled locking diff and a bunch of other gadgets and gizmos. The only other box you really need consider on the options list is the optional sports exhaust for an additional £1,000.

If the previous C63 was an unreconstructed muscle car first impressions of this new one are that it is ... very refined. And sensible. It rides well. The interior is swoopy and stylish and, yes, has that much derided tablet-style central display. There's bags of kit, it's comfortable and all very, well, Mercedes.

Portuguese motorways are characterised by sudden and vicious bumps and compressions but in comfort mode the dampers gobble them up, vertical movement present but expertly contained with only a hint of secondary undulation. The steering - a linear rack chosen specifically for the 63 - is smooth, positive and well weighted and with the exhaust in quiet mode it wafts along pretty much as smoothly as any well-specced C-Class.

Modes? Yup, we've got modes...

Thug life
Which is a bit of a worry for those of us fond of the previous car's shameless thuggery. Tinkering with modes and set-up while attempting not to crash into toll booths reveals, varyingly, sharper throttle, more assertive containment of vertical body movements, more engine noise and a greater interest in shuffling around the gearbox's seven ratios for maximum thrust.

As the roads become single carriageway and twisty an Individual mode of comfort dampers but Sport+ engine and gearbox and the more relaxed ESP setting seems appropriate. Before exploring what this inside-out, 'hot-vee' turbocharged V8 is made of.

Discussion with engineers reveals that disguising the forced induction power delivery was a fundamental development goal. Sure enough, while you can feel just a hint of lag and swelling boost when accelerating in a higher gear, in all other scenarios it pulls with a linearity that'll sooth fans of the previous big cube V8.

Given the engine has been cleverly configured to feel like the old one the more fundamental change in character between this and the previous C-Class is the way it puts that power down to the road., the C63 puts a greater emphasis than ever before on traction. An LSD was an option on the old car and very aggressive in operation - great for those ready with the corrective lock, possibly a bit intimidating for everyone else. The non-S car gets a mechanical LSD as standard but the S gets a fully active electronically controlled one and it's this more than anything that transforms the car's character and makes 510hp through the rear wheels feel like an entirely rational proposition. Sure, the ability to neutralise understeer with the throttle is still there and the correction that follows is smooth and well telegraphed through your palms. But where the old car would happily continue the rotation as far as the lock stops would go this new one simply shuffles the power across the rear axle, chomps down into the tarmac and goes, no drama.

But hang on, isn't dramaabout the old car?

'Hot V' engine from AMG GT; 510hp in S spec

Born slippy
Possibly. Switching to an S saloon for the track work the traction advantage is underlined. It might have a lot more grunt than the M3 but by backing off the torque in the lower gears to avoid overwhelming the rear axle doesn't feel as rampantly oversteery as the figures might suggest. It's also a little softer at the front end, a comforting pillow of understeer awaiting those who push a little too hard, more exciting cornering stances requiring a degree of determination to unleash. Once it does hook up toasted tyres are very much on the menu and it'll happily hold big angles on the throttle. But this isn't its default attitude any more.

Revved out to its soft limiter the engine has a commendably consistent and linear power delivery but, at the extremes, still can't quite compete with the utter mentalism that lurked in the higher reaches of the 507 tune 6.2. It's damned close but the new C63 treads dangerously near to being too clever for its own good, those endearing rough edges smoothed over and gentrified.

At the request of AMG boss Tobias Moers the gearbox engineers have been told to man up and stop being so cautious about supplying downshifts on demand and the familiar auto-plus-clutch seven-speeder is an effective partner with the new V8. It's not as crisp as the M3's optional DCT, or even quite as quick as the better applications of the all-conquering ZF eight-speeder. But it's far from an Achilles' Heel.

Non-S versions get mere 476hp - how to cope?

As a road car that works a treat, the C63 a very much more rounded proposition than the M3/M4 and a car you could live with much more readily. It also manages to satisfy at the civilian speeds the BMW seems disinterested in but can't hide the fact it's a little softer at the ragged edge.

We end where we began though, which is to say it's all about the V8 and the authenticity of that sound. It underpins everything, dominates the character of the car without ever overwhelming it. And proves decisively that AMG can adapt the things we've always loved about its cars to the new tech obsessed age. Arguably it's done a better job of this than M , probably because these were seemingly development goals from the off rather than papered over the top of the tech as an apparent afterthought. It might have backed off a little of the sharpness in that final 10 per cent of its performance envelope. But in the 90 per cent in which you spend most of your time it's brimming with confidence, character and sensory delight.

MERCEDES-AMG C63/C63 S SALOON
Engine: 3,982cc twin-turbo V8
Transmission: 7-speed auto with lock-up clutch (MCT), rear-wheel drive
Power (hp): 476@5,500rpm/510@5,500rpm
Torque (lb ft): 479@1,750-4,500rpm/516@1,750-4,500rpm
0-62mph: 4.1sec/4.0sec
Top speed: 155mph (limited)
Weight: 1,715kg/1,730kg (EU, with 75 kg driver/luggage)
MPG: 34.5mpg (NEDC combined)
CO2: 192g/km
Price: £59,795/£66,545

MERCEDES-AMG C63/C63 S ESTATE
Engine: 3,982cc twin-turbo V8
Transmission: 7-speed auto with lock-up clutch (MCT), rear-wheel drive
Power (hp): 476@5,500rpm/510@5,500rpm
Torque (lb ft): 479@1,750-4,500rpm/516@1,750-4,500rpm
0-62mph: 4.2sec/4.1sec
Top speed: 155mph (limited)
Weight: 1,785kg/1,800kg (EU, with 75 kg driver/luggage)
MPG: 33.6mpg (NEDC combined)
CO2: 196g/km
Price: £60,995/£67,745

Lamborghini Veneno Roadster Launched With 750 Watts Monster Audio at CES 2014

Lamborghini launched the Veneno to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the company.

Lamborghini launched the Veneno to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the company. It was badged LP750-4, which means that it had 740ish horse power. This is not a lot compared to a 918 Spyder, LaFerrari, or a P1. We’re excited nonetheless. Lamborghini was going to make only three of them- one in Red, one White, and the other in Green. They made a silver showcase car along with these three painted in the colors of the Italian flag. The demand, obviously, was very high. So they decided to make a roadster version which was launched in 2013 , and also that it would be available in any color. Lamborghini also tripled their initial limit to reach a grand total of nine production units.

Lamborghini Veneno launched at las Vegas CES

Now this $4.5 million Veneno Roadster is a complete open top. It is something you can take for a drive in Monte Carlo or in California and then head straight back to your home, except you’ll need to also keep heading back to a gas station near you. The machine lives on gasoline you see. You might expect some good music while cruising since the sound of the 740ish hp V12 should be music to the ears of any automobile enthusiast. However, for that desire some more variety, Lamborghini’s got an alternative. The car maker called Monster and asked for the guy who created Beats By Dr Dre. He decided that a loud car needs a loud system and designed a 750 Watt audio for this hyper car.

Lamborghini Veneno roadster in red

This specific car was unveiled at CES Las Vegas this week and has 10 speakers. The infotainment system designed by Monster is controlled by a touchscreen mounted on the windscreen header.

Veneno Roadster launched at CES Las Vegas

Monster infotainment system

Veneno Roadster with monster speaker on the passenger side

LP750-4 Veneno 50th anniversary edition

This limited edition car is very exclusive and we hope to see the Monster Audio system used by other manufacturers as well since only nine lucky people will get to enjoy it. Assuming that they decide to take Veneno Roadster for a spin since most super/hyper cars end up in an air-conditioned garage owned by a person who is not sure when he actually bought all that stuff.

RE: Nissan 350Z GT-S Concept

Wednesday 25th October 2006
Nissan 350Z GT-S Concept
Will this 382bhp supercharged concept become a car you can buy?

Will this 382bhp supercharged concept become a car you can buy? Brett Fraser drives it and finds out.

Nissan 350Z GT-S Concept

The noise is incredible. An alarming mixture of shriek, howl, whistle, scream and scratch. And it’s very, very loud. Loud enough to be heard by the car in front and sufficiently menacing to have the driver edge over to allow you room to pass lest he (or she) be punished by the demonic force lurking behind.

When you drive the Nissan 350Z GT-S – the ‘concept’ car initiated by the UK PR team and developed by Nissan engineers from Cranfield in their spare time – the racket from its supercharger dominates the driving experience and scares other road users. Truth be told, on long journeys you’ll flick the blower off to stop the noise sawing through your skull, but when conditions are right its all-pervading sense of mechanical violence serves as the ideal soundtrack to the 25 per cent increase in power that it cajoles from the Zed’s 3.5-litre V6 engine.

Nissan might build it

Just the din that the GT-S makes would send many car company execs scurrying away to take cover behind EC rulebooks, but the rebellious spirit within Nissan UK at the moment is hard at work trying to make this car a production reality. When we say ‘production’ we don’t mean squeezing them out in their thousands like Micras from Sunderland, but something more like the 50 a year you can build up and get through SVA (Single Vehicle Approval) tests rather than having to undertake full-scale homologation.

It’s far from a done deal that anything at all will happen with the GT-S, but there’s plenty of positive pressure being applied from within the company and even if it’s impossible to sell the whole package complete, the components are largely off-the-shelf items that could be retailed individually – the supercharger is from the Swiss firm Novidem, for instance, and Strosek is the source of the bodykit. The Bilstein dampers are the trick bits – developed by Bilstein and Nissan especially for British back roads – but now that their settings have been calibrated it’s a comparatively simple operation to produce them in small numbers.

Charging on

The massive intercooler, barely contained by the mesh grille in the nose of the GT-S, gives you some indication of a serious upgrade in power; lift the bonnet and shining pipework and induction gubbins and purposeful-looking blue hoses confirm that picture. The addition of the blower raises power from 300bhp to 380bhp and swells the torque output by 53lb-ft so that it peaks at 313lb ft.

Those are big gains, yet curiously the GT-S doesn’t feel as impressively well hung as the figures suggest. You sure as hell know it’s powered by a meaty motor, but the rocketship effect you might expect from all the extra ponies doesn’t materialise.

In part that’s because the Zed’s V6 has never been a rev-head, getting gruff and uncultured at the top-end, denying the big Nissan the manic high-revving energy that most of us associate with travelling insanely fast. Instead it’s got genuine brawn that bulges its way to the surface between 3,000 and 6,000rpm and makes the 3.5-litre V6 feel as though it has twice the cubic capacity and a couple more cylinders; to begin with you might mistake this beefy delivery for lazy performance, yet if you clock-watch the speedo or (on a circuit, of course) hunt down other sports cars you know to be serious players, then the GT-S’s performance proves itself to up there in the junior exotica league.

Another way to assess what difference the supercharger makes is to switch it off using the innocuous little button to the right and in front of the gearlever. Cruise along for a while – in blessed silence – without the supercharger engaged and you begin to understand why the standard Zed has been so well received and you’ll probably find it decently brisk. Stab the button again and, after a momentary pause in proceedings as the supercharger ties itself into the induction loop, there’s a substantially and deeply satisfying wallop as your pace picks up aggressively. No doubts now about the effectiveness of supercharging, while turning on the boost in this way also amplifies your perception of the car’s performance.

For the record, and according to Nissan’s claims, the GT-S scorches from zero to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds, a clear second quicker than the standard car, while the 0-100mph time falls by an impressive 2.5 seconds.

Bruiser

Everything about the GT-S (and the Zed in general, to a lesser degree) shouts old-fashioned bruiser, in a positive way. The burly mid-range, the robust action of the gearchange and the clutch pedal, the beefy steering and woofly exhaust note, none of it is the stuff of slick, modern, computer-honed sports cars – that counts as a Very Good Thing in my book, even if over long distances the hardcore nature of the beast can grind you down a bit.

The ride, too, can rankle over rougher surfaces when it pounds and thumps, occasionally becoming so out of sorts that the tyres hop sideways a couple of inches through bumpy corners. Yet that’s just a worst-case scenario (though nevertheless one to be wary of), and for the most part the GT-S’s chassis is grippy and blessed with the fine balance and predictable on-the-limit behaviour of a well-sorted front-engined rear-driver. Sideways merchants and drifters will love the fact that the bigger outputs make it even easier to punt the tail out of line, while the rest of us will be grateful that the Zed’s traction and stability control system can be turned on as well as off.

Mean demeanour

Nissan’s choice of black paintwork for the GT-S was inspired, for it contributes suitably sinister visuals to go with the eerie hollering of the supercharger. Even the gold-coloured 18in Volk alloys have a slightly dusty, grimy finish to them, adding to the impression that this is a car made purely for the purpose of going quickly rather than showboating.

Nissan reckons that with the supercharger switched out then the GT-S could be used as your daily wheels. The only trouble is that pressing the supercharger button is one of those little automotive addictions and the moment you do that all pretence of mild manners and everyday acceptability vanish; the car turns into a bit of a monster too.

RE: Nissan 350Z Convertible

Friday 23rd July 2004
Nissan 350Z Convertible
Nauman Farooq has been sunning himself sans roof
This is the Nissan 350Z Roadster, the drop-top version of the 350Z coupe that was launched in North America nearly two years ago.

I have always thought of the 350Z as a nice car, but nothing close to being a great car. It needed a little something to make it more exciting. My idea for excitement would have been to slap a couple of turbos and give it a more vocal exhaust note, but Nissan had other ideas.

They decided, that in order to make the 350Z more exciting, it needs to lose its head. So, they did just that, but is it more exciting than the coupe? In a word, "No."

Yes, it is certainly more enjoyable to drive around in an open top car, but that's about the size of it. In every respect, it drives just like the coupe, which is no bad thing of course.

Nissan engineers certainly did their homework on this one, since this Roadster feels just as solid and scuttle free as the coupe version. That makes it a very comfortable car - no shakes, no rattles, no nasty tings to give you a headache. However, is it fun to drive? Yes and no.

Yes because it is decently fast (0-60mph in 5.8 seconds, top speed about 150mph) and on the highway, it climbs up to speed very quickly and smoothly. At most times, I'd stay in 6th gear and feed in the throttle, and it would do very naughty speeds, very easily. More impressively, this car is very, very stable at high speeds. At 135mph (on a closed private runway), it feels more stable than some supercars. Top-down aerodynamics are good too, making it a comfy car to drive top down on the motorway.

The handling on long sweeping corners is very impressive too, it would just grip and grip, never scaring you, never feeling like it'll bite you, never losing composure. So, on long trips it is wonderful, but in the city it's the other way around.

In Town

The six-speed manual gearbox is horrid. It feels neither meaty or flimsy, it's a new in between that two, and thus very unsatisfactory to use. I really don't like it! If I were to buy this car, I'd honestly opt for the automatic version (auto is a no cost option). The clutch is similarly as unsatisfactory, so even more reasons to buy one with an auto-box.

Surprisingly the engine also feels rough and stressed at city speeds. It used the same 3.5 liter V6 as in the coupe and which produces a healthy 287 hp and 274 lb/ft of torque. That might sound like decent power, but it doesn't feel like it. Like I said before, it is great on highway speeds, but in the city, it struggles to give you rocketship starts. It's actually quite a tiring car to drive in town.

While the car is superbly planted on high speed sweeping corners, it is the other way around through tight corners. I wished it would handle like a Mazda Miata, but it just doesn't.

Unlike the Miata, the 350Z Roadster does have a power top, and a very slick one too. Just release the catch from the windscreen, and let the electrics do the rest. It even disappears under a tonneau cover, which has the double bubble design leading upto the roll bars. It does look rather tasty with the top down, and I found myself driving past many glass-fronted buildings.

The interior is very good too. First of all, it is very well appointed, and build quality on the most part is very good. It looks good too, and functions quite well due to some clever design features, best of which is the tilt steering wheel, which takes the dials with it, so you never obscure the dials. Other features like automatic climate control, full power adjustable seats, and a Bose sound system are welcoming features.

The bright Xenon headlights are great, making night driving that much more pleasurable.

All in all, it's not a bad car at all. Yes, it does have its shortcomings but all cars do. Priced at CAN$52,900 I can forgive many of them. The only option available is a navigation system, which will set you back another CAN$3400.

Compared to some of its rivals, this is a very good deal. This isn't a focused sports car but it is a good touring car.

Nauman Farooq

Mercedes-Benz G-Class Squared Showcased At The Auto Expo

Mercedes-Benz showcased the G-Class Squared in India at the Auto Expo.

Mercedes-Benz showcased the G-Class Squared in India at the Auto Expo. The G500 4X4 Squared on display was Green in colour and was powered by a V8 engine.

The G500 4X4 Squared is based on the massive 6X6 pick-up truck

The car is based on the massive G63 6X6 pick-up truck that has a go-anywhere capability. The SUV gets a similar ground clearance, the same powertrain and the same axles. Two wheels and the flat bed have been removed. This means that this SUV still looks just as massive as the 6-wheeled vehicle and still has the same go-anywhere capability.

The G500 4X4 Squared is 2.25 metres long and 2.10 metres wide. It gets integrated LED light strips above the windscreen and exposed carbon fibre on the flared wheel arches.

Powering this beast is the same 4.0 litre biturbo V8 engine that is present in the AMG GT supercar. The approximate power output is 416 bhp at 6,250 rpm and 610 Nm of torque at 1,750 rpm. It is mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission and power is sent to all four wheels. It accelerates from a standstill to a 100 kmph in around 5.7 seconds and goes on to a top speed of 210 kmph. The twin pipes on both sides of the car give out a typical G-wagon V8 rumble.

It is powered by a 4.0 litre biturbo V8 engine producing 416 bhp

The SUV has a go-anywhere capability and being an AMG, is as comfortable on the road as it is off it. Off road, the SUV comes on its own. The portal axles allow the beast to go over any obstacles thrown at it. It can easily conquer rocky ground and water thanks to a 450mm ground clearance and a wading depth of 1000mm. Three lockable differentials are present on the car. It gets new damper adjustments. The dampers are available in two modes (Sport and Comfort).

The SUV can go anywhere you want it to

Twin Turbo Lamborghini Aventador Makes its Debut

Lamborghini hates force feeding their cars but that doesn’t stop tuners from indulging in it.

Lamborghini hates force feeding their cars but that doesn’t stop tuners from indulging in it. Gallardos have always had turbos fitted onto to them and taken to the drag strip trying to outrace pimped up Nissan GT-Rs.

The present record for the standing half mile goes to Alpha Omega GT-R which is the work of AMS Performance outputs about 2050 bhp from a new 4 litre block and does the deed in 7.485 seconds. Aventador’s little sibling the Huracan had two turbosfitted onto its 5.2 litre V10 with the help of Underground Racing and now outputs over 2000 bhp.

Codenamed UR2, it took on the Alpha Omega GT-R and lost out by a small margin. The twin turbo Lamborghini Huracan still has a lot to give mechanically but the Aventador decided to look after the back of its little sister and enter the ring.

Here is a video of the twin turbo Lamborghini Huracan in action.

The turboplantation on the Aventador was done again by Underground Racing and the power figures have more than doubled now. From 690 bhp in its stock form, the figures are now in the 1,550 bhp range and paired to an all wheel drive system, getting off the line won’t require smoking away the rear tyres.

Underground racing hasn’t just slapped on two turbochargers, they have done other work to the car too. Here are the steps followed by them when they decided to poke the raging bull to make it even more angrier. They even offer a two year/39,000 kilometres warranty too.

• Full blue print and balanced race short block
• Disassemble complete Lamborghini V12
• Bore & hone V12 with torque plate
• Machine block deck surface V12 Aluminium
• Balance complete V12 rotating assembly
• Mallory for balancing crankshaft
• Polish and mic crankshaft
• Jet clean block
• Jet clean cylinder heads
• Custom billet rods
• Custom reverse dish race pistons
• Spiral locks
• Wrist pins
• Oil rail support
• Main bearings
• Rod bearings
• Total seal TNT file fit rings
• Assemble complete Lamborghini V12

The Aventador is yet to lock its horns with anyone, but a potential showdown will be interesting.

Lamborghini Centenario to be on the cover on next Forza game

Forza, the most successful racing game on Xbox will feature the Lamborghini Centenario on the cover on its latest edition.

Lamborghini Centenario uses a naturally aspirated V12 which produces 770 hp and powers from 0-100 km/h in 2.8 seconds, and from 0-300 km/h in 23.5 seconds with a top speed of more than 350 km/h, becoming the most powerful Lamborghini to be ever built. It has a weight to power ratio of just 1.97 kg/hp. Transmission is via Lamborghini’s Independent Shifting Rod (ISR) gearbox, providing a lightweight and emotive solution to achieving the fastest gearshifts possible. Lamborghini will produce only 20 coupes and 20 roasdster versions of the car, which are all sold, at a start price of €1.75 million euro plus tax.

“Working with Microsoft and Turn 10 Studios allows a global audience the chance to share in the emotion of driving the Centenario, the most powerful Lamborghini produced to date,” said Mr. Reggiani, board member for research and development of Automobili Lamborghini.

“We’re excited to continue our long history of working with Lamborghini and to be part of their 100-year anniversary by celebrating the Centenario as the featured cover car of the next Forza game,” said Phil Spencer, Head of Xbox.

Lamborghini’s legendary cars are among the most popular in Forza’s stable with more than five million players spending nearly 60 million hours racing in Lamborghinis. The Lamborghini Centenario will join another 14 Lamborghini models featured in the award-winning Forza franchise on the Xbox One.

Every Lamborghini is showcased in Forzavista™ detail, meaning that each features working doors and headlights as well as fully drivable cockpits. Forza remains the best-selling racing franchise of the current video game console generation, and more than 10 million unique fans have played Forza games on Xbox One, making it the most played racing franchise on Xbox One.

Lamborghini Centenario to be on the cover on next Forza game

Forza, the most successful racing game on Xbox will feature the Lamborghini Centenario on the cover on its latest edition.

Aston Martin DB11 unveiled at Geneva Motor Show

Aston Martin DB11 is the most important car in company’s recent history as it is the first in line to a complete overhaul of entire Aston line up by 2020.

Aston MartinDB11 debuted at the Geneva Motor Showafter playing peek-a-boo with multiple spy shots. We say it is gorgeous and the leaves you stunned with its aesthetically compelling lines and curves. The iconic British manufacturer says DB11 is “heralding a new design era for Aston Martin,” which we couldn’t agree more. Aston Martin cars are always described using adjectives like sexy and seductive and this one is no different.

At the heart of Aston Martin DB11 is an all new 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12. Designed in-house this engine develops 600BHP and 700Nm of torque, making DB11 the most powerful production DB model ever. It is mated to an 8-speed automatic ZF transmission and it will accelerate from rest to 100 kmph in 3.9 seconds with a top speed of 320 kmph. When cruising, the engine will shut down half the cylinders, making it a 2.6-litre straight six mill, but to prevent the exhaust catalyst from overcooling, the electronics switch between two sets of six-cylinders. Also, the driver can choose from multiple driving modes -GT, Sport and Sport Plus- which alter the response of the engine, the gearbox, the electric power steering, the torque vectoring and the adaptive dampers.

On the interior, it features a 12-inch LCD instrumentation cluster with an 8-inch infotainment system.DB11 will not come cheap as the base price is set at $211,995 when it launches in the fourth quarter of the year.

“We aspire to make the most beautiful cars in the world. DB11 is the absolute embodiment of what an Aston Martin should be and we have worked tirelessly to ensure that DB11 combines both exceptional design with the latest technology throughout,” said Andy Palmer, Aston Martin CEO.

“A brand new bonded aluminum platform, clever aerodynamics, a new characterful twin-turbo V12 and class-leading infotainment systems are just a few aspects which make this the sports car that will proudly spearhead Aston Martin’s second-century plan.”

Aston Martin DB11 Gallery:

BMW celebrates 100 years of existence today

The Germans have an upper hand when it comes to building world class cars and amongst them is BMW group.

The Germans have an upper hand when it comes to building world class cars and amongst them is BMW group. The world’s largest luxury car seller in 2015, BMW celebrates ‘100 years of fascination for mobility.’ today. The 100th year celebrations will be attended by German Chancellor Angela Merkel in Germany.

BMW celebrates 100 years of existence today with this teaser of a concept to be unveiled today

“Over the course of its history, time and again, the BMW Group has proven its versatility and confirmed its role as a future-orientated, innovative company,” said a press release.

“Since the company was formed 100 years ago, the BMW Group has always set its sights on the future and been a consistent, innovative force for progress. This is what defines the company and forms its employees’ sense of identity. We live and shape change, acting in a responsible manner towards society and our environment. We overcome challenges and emerge stronger than ever.”

BMW, a small aero-engine manufacturer based in the north of Munich has been transformed into a world-leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles, as well as a provider of premium finance and mobility services. Today, the BMW group has production and assembly facilities in 14 countries and a global sales network.

“Over the course of its history, time and again, the BMW Group has proven its versatility and confirmed its role as a future-orientated, innovative company,” an ad for the event says. “Since the company was formed 100 years ago, the BMW Group has always set its sights on the future and been a consistent, innovative force for progress.”

The company shared a teaser image of a concept car along with a statement from Harald Krüger, BMW’s chairman of the board of management: “The company has continually evolved and, in some cases, reinvented itself. That will continue in the future.” According to the company, the car highlights company’s vision for next 100 years.

BMW i5 is coming only in 2020

BMW i range of cars, especially the i8 was one of the automotive engineering marvels and it looked so futuristic, defining the path of how future models would look like.

BMW i range of cars, especially the i8 was one of the automotive engineering marvels and it looked so futuristic, defining the path of how future models would look like. The company also has the i3 hatch and it is widely expected that an SUV crossover will be added to the line up soon. But according to CarandDriver, the BMW i5 is coming only in 2020 and no sooner.

We dot know what the next ‘i’ model will look like

The report suggests that BMW i5 will be a completely electric vehicle as opposed to a hybrid which was a wide expectation. Henrik Wenders, head of product at BMW said that the upcoming models will come with standard batteries with range extenders for those who really need it. “The range-extender plays an important part in the next years when range remains a limiting factor and a source of anxiety. Of course, once we get to a range that is more comparable with that of an internal-combustion engine it will become obsolete. So this is the reason I can say we will continue to offer the range-extender in the future as optional equipment, to address different customer needs.”

“At the beginning of the i3, the [take rate of the] range-extender was much more than we expected,” Henrik Wenders said. “More than 60 percent. It’s decreasing dramatically now and what we’re seeing is that people are almost never using it and that it was purely a psychological thing; it is being regularly used in fewer than five percent of i3s.”

“We are thinking of a new i model above it to attract families, and that means it must be capable of being the first car in the household. We are still working very hard on the usage concept, but this needs to be defined by the market and not by us.”

The electric vehicles have gotten better with time and at the same time, are getting smarter by the day. The range of cars is no more a point of debate at least in the western world where the EV eco system is shaping up well. The range of cars is increasing but as Wenders pointed out, very few people need it and need it sparingly. So a functional all electric vehicle makes a lot of sense. We only wished that it came soon enough!!

BMW 7-Series wins 2016 World Luxury Car title

World Car of the Year awards are eagerly awaited and this year was no different.

World Car of the Year awards are eagerly awaited and this year was no different. The jury which consists of 73 motoring journalists from across the globe selected the winner chose the BMW7- series as the world’s most luxury car of the year 2016. The overall Car of the Year award was bagged by Mazda MX-5.

First ever M powered 7-series sedan : BMW L760i xDrive

The BMW 7-Series is the company’s flagship sedan and can be called a rolling temple of technology. The car comes with many segment first features like Gesture Control, Remote Control Parking, BMW Display Key, BMW Touch Command System, Wireless Charging and Sky Lounge. It has been launched with two engine options in India – a 3.0-litre in-line 6-cylinder diesel engine that develops 261BHP and a 4.4-litre V8 petrol that develops 443BHP, both of which are mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission.

“We are delighted and honored that the BMW 7 Series has been recognized as the World Luxury Car of the Year,” said Dr. Ian Robertson, Member of the Board of Management, BMW AG. “Since it launched last autumn, the response from both the media and our customers has been extremely positive, with people especially appreciative of the way the 7 Series combines superb modern luxury with the outstanding driving dynamics BMW is famous for. With its many technical innovations, including gesture control and laser lights, there can be no doubt that the new BMW 7 Series is an outstanding flagship for the brand, setting new standards in its class.”

The luxurious interior of BMW 7-series

The World Car jurors observed, “This is the flagship model for the Bavarian car maker, and so it simply has to be the epitome of what the brand represents in terms of technology, design and performance. And the new 7 Series certainly delivers. It is very much the new face of BMW in the new family design – and yet it is a classic BMW all at once. It drives phenomenally well courtesy a new range of engines, and has a sporty drive dynamic that the rivals in the segment cannot claim as their USP. This comes from a 130 kg drop in weight thanks to the new ‘Carbon Core’ frame. 25 new features, of which 13 are segment firsts! Inside the cabin, BMW has taken things up a notch on luxury, pampering the owner with not just very comfortable and well-designed seating, but with loads of technology, entertainment too. The new 7 Series brings in new features like the ambient ‘sky lounge’ sunroof, the ambient air package and the all‐new gesture control.”

Jaguar XF L spied!! Debut at Shanghai Motor Show?

In general, the Chinese folks love things that stand out in the crowd, which equates to large luxurious SUV’s and long wheel base sedans.

In general, the Chinese folks love things that stand out in the crowd, which equates to large luxurious SUV’s and long wheel base sedans. To satiate the need of this important market, Jaguar is readying the Jaguar XF L for the Chinese market, speculated to debut in April at the Shanghai Motor Show.

Jaguar XF L spied!!

The Jaguar XF L makes a great business sense since the affluent class loves to be chauffeured in luxury and one quick look at the spy shots clearly states the elongated wheelbase and large rear doors. The camouflaged exterior doesn’t leave much to the imagination since the design is very similar to the standard Jaguar XF with the only difference being the exhaust tips, which do not look circular as seen on the one available internationally.

The interior will remain largely unchanged on the front row and the dashboard. The interiors are made of wood trim, brushed aluminum and leather. The features include dual-zone air-conditioning, GPS navigation, 11-speaker audio system, touchscreen interface, reversing camera, leather upholstery and Bluetooth connectivity.

Jaguar XF L spied: interior

The spy pictures do not show the rear passenger seats and unfortunately, that is the place most changes are expected to happen. Taking benefit of the extra space, it will be interesting to see what Jaguar adds to the luxuries which would not make the existing owners of the more expensive Jaguar XJ seethe.

We do not expect any changes to the powertrains wth options of 2.0-litre and 3.0-litre petrol or diesel engines. The car is currently speculated to be for the Chinese market exclusively but the management might just be tempted to try it out in other markets if it sees success in the world’s biggest automotive market.

Jaguar XF L spied: the frot

Jaguar XF L spied: rear with the slightly changed exhaust pipes

Hyundai Creta Anniversary Edition To Launch Soon

Mr. Puneet Anand, General Manager (Marketing) & Group Head at Hyundai Motor India Ltd, confirmed that the Korean company will launch an Anniversary Edition of the Creta SUV by mid-2016.

Details of the vehicle are unknown as of now but is expected to a black contrast roof and body decals on the side. On the inside, it will get illuminated door sills, exclusive floor carpets and some additional equipment.

The special edition car will commemorate the first anniversary of the launch of the car, which has received nearly 1,00,000 bookings till now. To meet the high demand for the SUV, the Korean company is planning to increase production to 10,000 units per month for the domestic market and to 2,500 units per month for the export market. The increase in production will happen sometime in June this year.

The Creta is the cheapest SUV from Hyundai. It comes equipped with automatic climate control, leather seat upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather-wrapped gear knob, dual-tone interiors, electrically adjustable and retractable ORVMs with integrated turn indicators, rear wiper with defogger, projector headlamps with daytime running lights, all four power windows and front fog lamps.

Powering the compact SUV is a petrol engine and a diesel engine. The petrol is a 1.6-litre unit producing 122 bhp at 6,400 rpm and 154 Nm of torque at 4,850 rpm. The SUV returns 15.29 kms to a litre of fuel. The diesel is a 1.6-litre unit producing 126 bhp at 4,000 rpm and 265 Nm of torque at 1,900 rpm. The SUV returns 19.67 kms to a litre of fuel. Both the engine are mated to a 6-speed manual transmission and power is sent to the front wheels. The diesel is also available with a 6-speed automatic transmission which returns 17.01 kms to a litre of fuel.

The Hyundai Creta starts from INR 8.87 lakhs (ex-showroom, New Delhi) and goes up to INR 13.98 lakhs (ex-showroom, New Delhi). It competes with the Renault Duster, Nissan Terrano, Mahindra TUV 300, Ford Ecosport, Mahindra XUV 500 and the Mahindra Scorpio.

Royal Enfield Himalayan priced at INR 1,78,872 (on-road, Mumbai)

Long after the prototypes were first spotted, we can finally buy one!! Royal Enfield Himalayan priced at INR 1,78,872 (on-road, Mumbai).

Fir time ever, Royal Enfield has built a bike for a very specific audience who want to go long and high into the mountains and want a sturdy companion to experience the thrill of riding through the landscape. Royal Enfield Himalayan has been designed completely from the ground up to make it best suited for the harsh conditions. The ex-showroom price is Rs 1.55 lakh.

Himalayan is powered by a 410cc single cylinder SOHC engine wich generates only 24.5 bhp and 32 Newton metre of torque. The power is transferred to the rear wheel by a 5-speed constant mesh transmission. The engine is equipped with a counterbalancer to reduce vibrations, hence making it the most refined Royal Enfield till date.

The Himalayan rides on 21-inch wheels at the front and 19-inch at the rear. Disc brakes make all the effort to bring the ride to a halt at both ends. Himalayan features a split seats and a range of accessories to go with the whole touring image which includes panniers, top box and custom Royal Enfield riding gear to go with it. The panniers will be bought in either leather or metal variants.

The company has set a service interval of 10,000 km and insists on spark plug change every 25,000 km. ABS will be offered as optional. The exhaust has been swept back, increasing the water wading capabilities significantly. The instrument cluster which has unique bits like altimeter and compass along with regular features like speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge and trip meter.

Royal Enfield has been growing leaps and bounds under the leadership of Mr Siddhartha Lal and the company could have another winner on their hands.

Royal Enfield Himalayan Gallery :

Vitara Brezza Website Goes Online; Teaser Sent To Prospective Customers

The official website for the upcoming Vitara Brezza compact SUV from Maruti Suzuki has gone online and dealers have sent teasers to prospective customers via email.

The teaser sent by Maruti Suzuki to prospective customers

The SUV is a sub-4 metre vehicle that will be based on an all-new platform. It is based on the XA Alpha concept showcased at the 2012 Indian Auto Expo. The design of the new compact SUV will be based on the company’s new design language and will look similar to the Grand Vitara SUV. It has been code-named the YBA.

The Vitara Brezza will be powered by the same 1.3-litre Fiat sourced diesel engine that powers the Swift and other Maruti Suzuki vehicles. The engine will get the SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki) which made its debut in the Ciaz sedan. Power output is expected to be 75 bhp or 90 bhp. Expect Maruti Suzuki to offer a manual transmission as well as an automatic transmission. Four-wheel drive option will not be available. Petrol engines will be made available but it is unclear of it will be launched in India.

Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza Sketch

The equipment list is expected to be longer than its rivals. It will get projector headlamps, fog lamps, ORVMs with integrated turn indicators, keyless entry, push start-stop, an in-dash audio system with Bluetooth, USB and AUX. It will also get a touch screen system with GPS and reverse parking camera.

Maruti Suzuki’s first ever sub-compact SUV will be launched at the Auto Expo next month and it will compete against the Premier Rio, Mahindra Quanto, Ford Ecosport and the Mahindra TUV 300. Prices are expected to start at around INR 6.5 lakhs (ex-showroom). This new SUV will be the first proper SUV in the company’s line-up in India. Maruti Suzuki does not sell any SUVs in India. The S-Cross is a crossover.

Teaser image source – Team BHP

Bentley Considering An All-Electric Model; Bentayga To Get A Hybrid Variant

Bentley’s design team has been thinking of developing an all-electric car.

Bentley’s design team has been thinking of developing an all-electric car. Although the CEO doesn’t think much of the plan, it could happen sometime in the future. The design team’s idea has sparked a debate within the company on electrification. Meanwhile, Bentley’s SUV, the Bentayga will be getting a plug-in hybrid variant in 2018.

The Bentayga will get a plug-in hybrid variant by 2018

“Of course we are looking – and by sketching out proposals we are provoking emotions,” said new design director Stefan Sielaff. “Not every idea we have is for production, but the creation of something physical to debate allows us to test new ideas. We don’t want to be thinking in one direction all the time – we want to challenge conventions.”

Head of sales and marketing Kevin Rose acknowledged that there were many shortcomings in the latest electric car tech but it could be a possibility once the technology improves as customer demand grows. “I’d like to offer an electric car. It’s far from certain, but customer demand is growing and it is on our agenda”, he said.

It is the most luxurious, powerful, fastest and the most expensive SUV currently on the market

Bentley’s boss doesn’t think much of the idea. He thinks that plug-in hybrids are the way forward for now and electric cars will be offered only when they adhere to the brand values.

“Plug-in hybrid will be available on all our models in time, but I don’t see that as stop-gap technology. It will give customers the range they are used to with the capability of running emissions-free in cities, for instance. That is a good compromise. Full electric is less certain. I don’t see it as a priority at the moment for our customers, nor as being crucial to our brand values,” Bentley boss Wolfgang Durheimer said.

It is offered in only one variant now and it is powered by a W12 engine

Source – Autocar

Volkswagen Phaeton production ends; model killed

Fourteen years after the launch o its flagship luxury sedan was launched, Volkswagen Phaeton has been killed as the demand kept dipping and people across the globe preferring its luxury-oriented rivals like Mercedes Benz, BMW, Audi.

The staff at the Dresden factory pose with the last Volkswagen Phaeton

In a press release, the company said, “Today, production of the Phaeton luxury model ended after 14 years. Employees posed for a photo with the last vehicle manufactured – a black Phaeton.”

Volkswagen Phaeton was designed to take on the Mercedes Benz S-Class, BMW 7-series and the Audi A8 with a variety of engine options ranging from V6 to 5.0-litre V10 and the flagship 6.0-litre W12 mills. The Phaeton pictured here was a 4.2-litre V8 motor.

The facility in Dresden was built to manufacture the Bentley Continental Flying Spur along with the Phaeton but later on, went on to have its own assembly line in England. The factory will now be closed for 10 days from 29th March for modification. The company has assured that those working in the facility will be absorbed somewhere else. 100 people will continue to work in Dresden while the rest 400 will mainly be assigned to Zwickau or to other Group locations.

“Our D-class employees in Zwickau and Dresden have demonstrated outstanding manufacturing expertise with the Phaeton over the past 14 years. This know-how is also well known and highly valued at other facilities of the Volkswagen Brand and the Group,” said Prof. Dr. Siegfried Fiebig, Speaker of the Management Board of Volkswagen Sachsen GmbH.

The Dresden location’s Works Council Chairman Thomas Aehlig emphasized: “The production of the highest-quality vehicles should be resumed here under the eyes of customers and visitors in the near future. This is what the workforce and this unique facility deserve. Until then, the deployment of our colleagues to other locations will call for considerable flexibility.”

From beginning of April, the Transparent Factory will remain open for events as well as for vehicle delivery and preparation following the modifications.

Lamborghini Hits Sales Record; Hires More Employees For The Urus Production

This time last year, Lamborghini announced that they had eclipsed all their previous annual sales figures.

This time last year, Lamborghini announced that they had eclipsed all their previous annual sales figures. This time again, they achieved the same feat. In 2014, they managed to sell 2,530 vehicles. In 2015, they easily surged past that and delivered 3,245 vehicles. This is the highest the company has achieved in its history.

They have also started recruiting more people for the production of the Urus SUV. More people will become employees of the iconic Italian company in 2016. More than 150 assembly line workers, technicians and highly qualified specialists have been taken on as the Sant’Agata Bolognese facility gears up for Urus production in 2018. The supercar manufacturer now employs more than 1,300 people.

Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO said: “Lamborghini is experiencing strong, steady growth in sales and also in its workforce. We are getting ready for groundbreaking changes with the introduction of our third model in 2018, which points to stable, sustainable growth for our company. This is why our investments in human resources are more important than ever, as we continue to focus on excellence and continuous improvements in this new phase of the company’s future.”

The Lamborghini Aventador LP750-4 Superveloce

After production of the SUV starts, he expects sales to double. Lamborghini could be selling 5,000 to 6,000 cars every year. Additional 500 new staff will be taken on and they will include technicians working in Lamborghini’s quality, research and development, purchasing, industrial and project management divisions, as well as technical production staff. The production site will also nearly double in size from the current 80,000 square metres to 1,50,000 square metres.

The Lamborghini Urus

Globally, Lamborghini sells the Huracan LP 580-2, Huracan LP 610-4, Huracan 610-4 Spyder, Aventador LP 700-4, Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster, Aventador LP 750-4 Superveloce and the Aventador LP 750-4 SuperVeloce Roadster.

In India, they sell the Huracan LP 580-2, Huracan LP 610-4, Aventador LP 700-4 and the Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster. The range starts from INR 2.99 crores (ex-showroom, New Delhi) and goes up to INR 5.62 crores (ex-showroom, New Delhi). The Huracan Spyder might soon join the line-up.

Source – Autocar UK

Audi Q2 Teased Yet Again, Reveals More This Time!

The Audi Q2 has been teased again and this time we at least have something to show you guys.

The Audi Q2 has been teased again and this time we at least have something to show you guys. The Q2 is the smallest SUV from Audi yet and is expected to be designed in line with the newly launched Audi Q7.

Audi Q2 Teaser Front

Audi a few days back teased that its smallest SUV is all set for a launch next month at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show. The company though did not give any visual idea of its upcoming SUV. The German brand has now given us some clue as to how the Audi Q2 will look in flesh in the second round of teasers. The teaser image shows the car under wraps, only revealing the LED treatment in the headlamps and taillamps. The LED DRLs upfront look similar to that from the Audi RS6 Avant, while at the rear the LED treatment is unique and also points out to a smaller taillamp cluster.

The Audi Q2 is based on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform, but will be powered by a new range of 3- and 4-cylinder petrol and diesel engines from the Audi A1. Gearbox options will be a 6-speed manual and a dual clutch automatic too. The car could be offered with the Quattro 4-wheel drive system too. On the insides the Audi Q2 is expected to be on par with the latest generation of Audi with an updated MMI interface and could also benefit from the Virtual Cockpit which is nothing but a high resolution screen that does the same and more as the traditional needles.

The Audi Q2 does not really have any direct competition with rivals being from a segment above from the likes of the BMW X1, Mercedes-Benz GLA and Audi’s own Q3. Imagine the Audi Q2 as a micro Q7 that will be priced to undercut the Audi Q3 and it will immediately makes sense. The company might just make buying an Audi SUV much more affordable with this new product. The wait until the launch of the Audi Q2 has now begun which is expected on the 1st of March, 2016.

Audi Q2 Teaser

Audi Q2 Teaser Rear

Topless Audi R8 Spyder Completely Revealed In Spy Shots

The convertible version of the Audi R8 Spyder has been spied with the top down.

The convertible version of the Audi R8 Spyder has been spied with the top down. The supercar did not have any camouflage and it was finished in Audi’s Vegas Yellow colour.

As expected, when compared to the coupe, there are no changes to the exterior and the interior, except for the foldable roof and a new rear deck. The roof is expected to be a soft-top. A black strip now connects the tail lamps and it offers better cooling to the engine.

Although some reports suggest that the a turbocharged V6 engine could power the R8, this particular model had a V10 engine powering it. The V10 engine will be the same engine that powers the coupe as well. The V6-engined R8 could come at a later stage. Reports suggest that it will be launched in May.

The Audi R8 V10 is available wth a 5.2-litre naturally aspirated V10 engine in two states of tune. In the base car, it produces 533 bhp at 6,500 rpm. In the top-end car, it produces 602 bhp at 8,250 rpm and 560 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a 7-speed S-tronic automatic gearbox with paddle shifters and power is sent to all four wheels via the Quattro all-wheel drive system. The coupe accelerates from a standstill to a 100 kmph in 3.2 seconds and goes on to a top speed of 330 kmph.

The Coupe was launchedat the Auto Expo in Delhi last month and it starts at INR 2 crores (ex-showroom, New Delhi) and goes up to INR 2.48 crores (ex-showroom, New Delhi). The supercar competes with the Ferrari 488, Lamborghini Huracan, Mercedes-AMG GT and the Porsche 911 Turbo.

According to a leaked timeline, the Audi R8 Spyder is expected to make its global debut in May this year.

Audi R8 Spyder Spy Shot Image Gallery

Source – Auto blog

Maruti Suzuki Inaugurates 100th NEXA Showroom within Six Months

Maruti Suzuki has inaugurated its 100th NEXA premium outlet in India.

Maruti Suzuki has inaugurated its 100th NEXA premium outlet in India. NEXA Thane (South) is the company’s 100th showroom through which they aim to provide premium services to its customers.

Maruti Baleno Front Quarter Left

NEXA marked a new beginning for India’s largest car manufacturer which was considered as a company that can only sell small hatchbacks. The first showroom was introduced in July 2015 and has achieved this milestone in just 6 months. The company chose to sell the S-Cross initially which was followed by the Baleno in October 2015. The next car to be sold via NEXA will be the Ciaz facelift that will introduced sometime later this year. NEXA is one of the major initiatives by Maruti Suzuki to achieve its target of selling two million vehicles per annum by 2020.

Inaugurating the 100th NEXA showroom, Mr. R.S. Kalsi, Executive Director (Marketing & Sales), Maruti Suzuki India Limited said, “We are delighted to start the 100th NEXA showroom ahead of our plan. Through NEXA, we want to meet the diverse expectations of our customers. Customer feedback and surveys show us that there is a growing segment of car buying Indians who value personal care, warmth and attention in their car buying and ownership experience. NEXA is designed for this segment of customers. It brings together people, technology, showroom ambience and processes to deliver the desired experience to this segment of customers.”

Maruti aims to launch 250 NEXA outlets and increase the total number of relationship managers to 5,000 by the end of next year. Maruti Suzuki’s next big launch, the Vitara Brezza compact SUV will be sold via the company’s regular dealerships rather than the initially speculated premium dealership. The Vitara Brezza will be powered by a 1.2-litre K-Series petrol motor that churns out 84BHP and a 1.3-litre diesel motor that develops 90BHP. It will come mated to a slick 5-speed manual gearbox and might also come with the option of a CVT automatic transmission on the petrol just like the Baleno.

maruti s cross front three quarter

Maruti Unveils IGNIS Concept and Baleno RS Concept at 2016 Auto Expo

Maruti Suzuki has just unveiled the Ignis Concept in India at the 2016 Auto Expo.

Maruti Ignis Concept Auto Expo 2016 Maruti Ignis Concept

Maruti Suzuki has just unveiled the Ignis Concept in India at the 2016 Auto Expo. The car is a mini SUV/Crossover concept that aims to provide high ground clearance, an SUV like driving position and the uber practicality of a premium hatchback. Recently Mahindra launched the KUV100, and this is exactly the segment Maruti might be aiming at with the Ignis. The design of the car is characterized by boxy shapes which for once do look attractive. The detailing in the rectangular headlights is immense with LED DRLs and projector headlamps. The sides look plain and portrays the boxy silhouette the most. The silver roof rails adds that extra dose of style to the car.

Maruti Baleno RS Concept Auto Expo 2016

Maruti Baleno RS Concept

On the other side of the stage was the Baleno RS Concept that is powered by a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder BoosterJet petrol motor. The new engine features turbocharging and direct injection technology which helps it develop 110PS of max power and 170Nm of torque. It will be mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox and given the light kerb weight, the car promises to be a hoot to drive. It will get aesthetic enhancements on the production model like a grey chrome grille and black alloy wheels. The Baleno RS will compete with cars like the Volkswagen Polo GT and the Ford Figo 1.5 both of which are equipped with dual clutch automatic gearboxes.

Maruti Baleno RS Concept Auto Expo 2016

Maruti 1.0-litre 3-cylinder BoosterJet Engine

The IGNIS and the Baleno RS are expected to launch in India this year and will be only sold via Maruti’s premium NEXA dealerships. Both will benefit from premium services that NEXA offers. The car will come loaded with kit (especially the IGNIS, given its lower price point) since it is a NEXA offering. We are so eager to drive the Baleno RS, hope Maruti launches it sooner than later.

Maruti Ignis Concept and Baleno RS Concept at 2016 Auto Expo Photo Gallery:

Quick Comparo: Datsun Go vs Hyundai Eon vs Maruti Alto

Datsun just launched the Go hatchback.

Datsun just launched the Go hatchback. The car is its first car of the 21st century and boasts of more space and performance than any other car in its segment. The daunting task the little car has is to revive a brand all by itself while taking on some of the highest selling cars in the country. So, we take a quick look at the points that matter and take the Datsun Go, up against the Maruti Suzuki Alto and the Hyundai Eon.

Mr. Tomonori Muto, GM, Marketing Product Planning, Datsun Business Unit, Mr. Ashwani Gupta, Programme Director, Datsun Business Unit, Mr. Kenichiro Yomura, President – Nissan India Operations and Mr. Ajay Raghuvanshi, VP – Business Management, Nissan Motor India Pvt. Ltd. at the launch of the Datsun GO in India

Price (Base/Fully Loaded):

Go: Rs 3.12 lakh/Rs 3.69 lakh

Eon: Rs 3 lakh/Rs 4.03 lakh

Alto: Rs 2.61 lakh/Rs 3.31 lakh

Engines:

Go: 3 cylinder, 1.2-litre petrol.

Eon: 3 cylinder, 814 cc petrol

Alto: 3 cylinder, 796cc petrol

Power/Torque :

Go: 67 hp/98 Nm

Eon: 55 hp/75 Nm

Alto: 47 hp/69 Nm

Hyundai Eon Front

Equipment (Fully loaded):

Go:

Follow-me-home headlights body coloured bumpers and door handles along with wheel covers, digital tachometer, tripmeter, distance to empty along with the average and instantaneous fuel efficiency, AC, electric power steering, front power windows, a gear shift guide, a folding rear seat bench and central locking, two-speaker audio system with aux-in compatibility without radio, mobile phone stand, a USB port for charging only and Jacquard seat upholstery.

Eon:

Engine immobiliser, central locking, keyless entry, front fog lamps, tubeless tyres, tilt steering and a driver airbag, body coloured bumpers, wing mirrors and outside door handles, dual tripmeter, gear shift indicator, front power windows, power steering, AC and a two-speaker audio system with CD, MP3, aux-in and USB compatibility, folding rear seat, remote fuel lid opener and tail-gate release.

Alto:

Body coloured bumpers and outside door handles along with a chrome accentuated front grille, AC, power steering and front power windows, driver airbag (O), central locking, tubeless tyres, headlight levelling and engine immobiliser, two-speaker audio system with CD, aux-in and USB compatibility, remote fuel lid opener and tail-gate release.

Prices of India’s best-selling car, the Alto, have been dropped by upto 46,500 rupees

Verdict

It’s really a matter of personal choice. The Alto is the most affordable while the Eon is the most expensive. The Eon does however get the most equipment in the top end model. The Datsun Go has the most power and space, but Datsun’s service back up is still behind the other two. Had the Datsun had safety equipment at least as an option, it would be a winner. After driving all 3, buyers will have to see which one they are most comfortable with.

No clear winner, but we can chose them for they represent best:

Safest bet- Alto .

Feature Loaded- Eon,

Space and performance- Go .

Maruti Vitara Brezza specs brochure leaked

Maruti Vitara Brezza is scheduled for launch tomorrow(8th March 2016).

Maruti Vitara Brezza Specs leaked a day ahead of launch

Ahead of the launch, folks at CarSizzler have laid hands on the brochure of the upcoming sub-compact SUV from India’s largest car seller. Until now, we knew that it will be powered by the familiar 1.3-litre DDiS diesel engine that develops 90PS of max power and 200Nm of max torque along with the 1.2-litre petrol engine that will be mated to a 5-speed transmission. What was under wraps was the mileage figure which is the most sensitive factor amongst buyers. Maruti Vitara Brezza delivers an ARAI-certified fuel efficiency of 24.3 km/l for the diesel variant. This is an astonishing figure considered that the rivals like Ford EcoSport, Mahindra TUV300return figures of anywhere between 18 kmpl and 22 kmpl. It is expected to be priced anywhere between 6 and 8.5 lakh rupees.

Read: Vitara Brezza vs TUV300 vs Ford EcoSport spec comparison

On the exterior, it gets nice and funky colour tones which make it look a young man’s SUV. About the interiors, Power adjustable ORVMs, Rear spoiler with an LED stop light, Manual HVAC, Tilt steering, Manual day/night IRVM, Speed sensitive door locks and Bluetooth-enabled music system on the base variant as standard. You can spec up as there as a total of six variants on offer: LDi, LDi(O), VDi, VDi(O), ZDi, ZDi+. The VDi adds features like Blacked out/floating A, B and C pillars, Rear parking sensors, Body-coloured door handles, Keyless entry, gear shift indicator, Rear power windows, an electromagnetic tail gate and Security alarm. The LDi (O) and VDi (O) variants adds safety features like ABS with EBD, front seat belt pre-tensioners with force limiters and a passenger side airbag.

ZDi trim gets features like bigger 16-inch alloy wheels, Projector headlights with LED DRLs, Automatic climate control, Rear armrest with cup holders, Driver’s seat height adjuster, Steering wheel with audio controls, Rear window washer and wiper, Mood light in speedometer, 12V power socket in boot.

Maruti Vitara Brezza Gallery:

Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza is priced between Rs. 6.99 lakhs to Rs. 9.68 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi). Only powered by 1.3 liter DDiS diesel engine.

Source: CarSizzler

Datsun Go Price [3.12 Lakh], Variants, Features

A simple car for the common man from a brand that was revived to cater exclusively to him.

A simple car for the common man from a brand that was revived to cater exclusively to him. The Datsun Go has been launched today at a starting price of Rs 3,12,270 Lakh .

D -Base Variant- (Rs 3,12,270):

The entry-level D variant gets digital tachometer, drive computer that displays instantaneous fuel economy, average fuel economy and distance to empty, Follow-me-home headlamps, speed sensitive wipers and silver finish front radiator grille A -Mid range Variant- (Rs 3, 46,482):

The mid-level A variant adds an air conditioner with filter, chrome front grille, body coloured bumpers and Jacquard seat upholstery to the equation. T -Top End Variant- (Rs 3,69,999 lakh):
The top of the line T variant comes with speed sensitive electric power steering, front power windows, Mobile Docking Station (MDS) with amplifier, universal mobile holder, aux-in and USB charger, front speakers, central locking and full wheel covers.

Among the highlights are connected front seats, smart metres, speed controlled windshield wipers, follow me home headlights, best in class storage, best in class headlamps and a linear suspension that takes care of vertical and horizontal jerks that normally get transferred to passengers. India is the first country to get a 21st century Datsun. The new Datsun GO will be available in 4 colours – White, Silver, Sky & Ruby . It will be retailed through a fully-branded environment within Nissan’s dealership network across the country.

Read our Datsun Go review?

Datsun Go will be exported from Chennai to other countries

Datsun unveiled its first Indian offering in 2013. The car has been lauded for its performance and space to expected price ratio. Bookings for the car commenced about a month back, at a price of Rs 11,000. If you aren’t happy with the prices revealed at the launch today, Datsun will refund the full amount if you have booked it. The engine is a 3 cylinder 1.2-litre petrol mill borrowed from the Nissan Micra that produces a max power of 68 PS @ 5000 RPM and maximum torque of 104 Nm @ 4000 RPM . It has the best power to weight ratio of any other car in its segment. It also boasts of the largest engine in its class. The car also comes with an engine immobiliser for added security.

Rear view of the Datsun Go

The Datsun Go has the tough task of penetrating into the highest selling segment in the country. Competitors include the Alto and Hyundai Eon. While the Go offers more in terms of cabin space and engine size, the brand name has no sense of familiarity in India. The primary issue that the Go has is to get recognition by itself and to also get Datsun’s name popular all by itself. The segment it is entering is not one where people are willing to experiment as they see it as a risk.

Sometime it doesn’t matter if the offering is more wholesome and offers a more suitable package. Budget buyers will always have an inclination towards what has been tried and tested. Exclusivety is not the criteria, but if buyer are open to testing the water with an unfamiliar brand, the Go can become an amazing seller.

The interior of the Datsun Go

Mr. Kenichiro Yomura, President – Nissan India Operations, said , “We are very excited to be part of history in India with the introduction of our very first model – the Datsun GO. Together, we have embarked on a long journey in one of the most complex, demanding and promising markets in the world. We are confident that the aspirational ‘Risers’ in India will identify with our product and brand.” The Datsun GO comes with a manufacturer warranty of 2 years / unlimited kilometers. Buyers will also be offered an option of extended warranty for an additional 2yrs, valid for unlimited kilometers. This makes Datsun the first manufacturer to provide unlimited mileage coverage under extended warranty. The Datsun GO also promises the lowest periodic cost of maintenance amongst its key competitors.

He added, “We are overwhelmed with the response and feedback received for the new Datsun GO. This is very encouraging and we thank all our customers for the appreciation and the enthusiasm shown regarding the purchase of this car. This is just the beginning but I would like to thank the sustained efforts of everyone involved for this achievement.”

The Datsun Go Launch live

Mr. Tomonori Muto, GM, Marketing Product Planning, Datsun Business Unit along with Mr. Ashwani Gupta, Programme Director, Datsun Business Unit handing over the key to the first customer of the Datsun GOin India

Tata Motors Unveils Zica-based Sub 4-metre Sedan at 2016 Auto Expo

Tata Motors has unveiled the ‘Kite 5′ concept sedan in India at the 2016 Auto Expo in Delhi.

Tata Kite 5 Concept Auto Expo 2016

Tata Motors has unveiled the ‘Kite 5′ concept sedan in India at the 2016 Auto Expo in Delhi. This is nothing but a sedan version of the Zica hatchback that was all set for a launch at the biennial event. The Kite 5 is a sub 4-metre sedan that will take on the likes of the Maruti DZire and Ford Figo Aspire. This new sub compact car will be positioned below the Zest sedan and will replace the Indigo CS in the company’s portfolio. The Kite 5 was supposed to be launched in the 1st quarter of 2016 but the consequent delay of the Zica launch will push the launch of this compact sedan by at least 3 months. It is most likely that the company will name it as the ‘Sway’.

Tata Kite 5 Concept Auto Expo 2016

It will be powered by the same 1.2-litre petrol and diesel engines that power the Zica and might be offered with a AMT automatic gearbox on the diesel just like the Zest. On the insides, expect the same high levels of equipment on offer as the Zica hatchback which means it will get a Harman speaker system and could also benefit from a touchscreen infotainment system. The design of the car looks very sporty due to the coupe like rear end and will definitely attract buyers.

Tata Hexa Auto Expo 2016

Tata also unveiled the Hexa SUV which is all set for launch this year. It will be powered by the same engine as the Safari Storme that develops about 154BHP and 400Nm of torque. It will take on the Toyota Innova Crysta and the Mahindra XUV500 in India. It features a full blown 4 wheel drive system with the same Terrain Response System found in Land Rovers. Tata Motors also showcased the Nexon concept which a sub 4-metre SUV designed to take on the Ford Ecosport and the Mahindra TUV300. It will be launched late this year or in early 2017.

Tata Nexon Concept Auto Expo 2016

Tata Motors at 2016 Auto Expo Photo Gallery:

Tata Kite 5 Concept Auto Expo 2016 Tata Kite 5 Concept Auto Expo 2016
Tata Hexa Auto Expo 2016 Tata Hexa Auto Expo 2016 Tata Nexon Concept Auto Expo 2016
Tata Nexon Concept Auto Expo 2016 Tata Nexon Concept Auto Expo 2016 Tata Nexon Concept Auto Expo 2016

Tata Hexa Auto Expo 2016 Tata Hexa Auto Expo 2016
Tata Hexa Auto Expo 2016

Renault Kwid launched in India at Rs. 2.56 lakhs – LIVE

We are coming live from the much awaited and anticipated Renault Kwid global launch from New Delhi where it has been finally launched at a mouth watering price tag of Rs.

We are coming live from the much awaited and anticipated Renault Kwid global launch from New Delhi where it has been finally launched at a mouth watering price tag of Rs. 2.56 lakhs Ex-showroom, Delhi. This entry level offering from Renault in India will take on cars like the Maruti Suzuki Alto and the Hyundai Eon.

Renault Kwid Launch The Renault Kwid has been priced very aggressively and will compete with the Hyundai Eon and Maruti Suzuki Alto

The Kwid gets a 799cc petrol motor that develops 54PS of power and 72Nm of torque delivered via a 5-speed manual gearbox. While that might not sound exciting, the kerb weight surely will, which at a measly 669Kgs is almost 100Kgs lighter than its closest rival the Maruti Suzuki Alto giving it an impressive power to weight ratio of 82 PS/ton. The Kwid has good amounts road presence thanks to its SUV-ish design that sets it apart from the crowd which will surely turn heads and attract customers to Renault showrooms this festive season. It gets 13-inch steel wheels which look pretty small under those prominent wheel arches. On the inside, the Kwid features many segment first like the huge 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system which supports satellite navigation and a fully digital instrument cluster with a large speedometer reading in the middle. Boot space at 300 litres is seriously big and takes the game close to some big hatchbacks sold in the country today.

Renault Kwid Interior Dashboard

The Kwid features many firsts like the all-digital instrument cluster and a 7-inch MediaNav system

Renault has made available for the Kwid, up to 60 different accessories like chrome inserts, roof rails, side cladding, seat covers, etc which will be fitted at the dealer end and provide a wide variety of customization options for its customers. A total of five colour options are on offer (Fiery Red, Ice Kool White, Moonlight Silver, Outback Bronze, Planet Grey) which can be had on six trim levels – STD, RXE, RXE(O), RXL , RXT and the fully loaded RXT(O). We drove the Renault Kwid in Goa a few days back (read our review here) and found that it lacked basic safety features like ABS or Airbags as standard. Although, the top RXT(O) and the base mid variant RXE(O) can be opted with a driver’s side airbag but we expect Renault to make it available on all its variants at least as an option in the future.

Renault Kwid Rear

The Renault Kwid also boasts of segment best ground clearance and boot space

So the Renault Kwid turns out to be a unique proposition and will appeal to those who want to look apart from the crowd. Renault’s aggressive pricing strategy also means that it knows its competition well and will want to capture a major chunk of the entry level hatchback segment quickly. We only wish Renault India improve their after sales service as this factor counts big time in this segment. But any which way this car has everything in it to be a winner, so book your new K(w)id quickly or get ready to see your names on the long waiting list.

Detailed Price-List (All Ex-showroom, Delhi):

STD: Rs. 2,56,968/-
RXE: Rs. 2,88,960/-
RXE(O): Rs. 2,94,960/-
RXL: Rs. 3,11,664/-
RXT: Rs. 3,44,131/-
RXT(O): Rs. 3,53,131/-

Renault Kwid Front Quarter

Renault Kwid Steering Dashboard

Renault Kwid Boot

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Maruti Vitara Brezza specs brochure leaked

Datsun Go Price [3.12 Lakh], Variants, Features

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Renault Kwid launched in India at Rs. 2.56 lakhs – LIVE

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