Isuzu has released an interesting list of do’s and don’t to guide you through the thrilling yet challenging world of mud driving with the Isuzu D-Max pick-up. With its rugged build and high-performance features, the D-Max is designed to power through the stickiest of terrains.
Equipped with a versatile 4-wheel-drive system, the Isuzu D-Max’s 2H, 4H, and 4L modes ensure you’re ready for any off-road adventure. The rear differential lock proves invaluable when traversing deep, slick mud, providing extra traction where it’s needed most. Its lightweight design (around 2 tonnes), electronically assisted steering, and excellent ground clearance make the D-Max a master of navigating rough, muddy paths.
Here’s the 10-step guide to mud driving with your Isuzu D-Max:
Pack for the Mud: Before heading out, pack a recovery kit with essentials like a tow strap, shovel, traction aids (recovery boards), gloves, and an air compressor in case of tyre pressure adjustments. Check Your Tyres: Opt for all-terrain or mud-terrain tyres to improve grip. Mud tyres with larger, self-cleaning treads are ideal for dispersing the mud and maintaining traction. Engage 4WD Mode: Switch to 4H or 4L depending on the depth of the mud. 4H is suited for general muddy conditions, while 4L offers more torque for deeper or thicker mud. Maintain Steady Momentum: Keep a consistent speed without sudden acceleration or braking. A smooth, steady pace helps avoid wheel spin and sinking. Keep Your Wheels Straight: Keep your wheels pointed straight ahead as much as possible. Turning in thick mud increases resistance and the risk of getting stuck. Use the Rear Differential Lock: Activate the rear differential lock when facing deep mud or inclines. This ensures both rear wheels move together, improving traction and helping you power through. Avoid Over-Revving: Spinning the wheels too fast in mud will dig them deeper. If you feel a loss of traction, ease off the accelerator to let the tyres regain grip. Recovery from Stuck: If you get bogged down, don’t panic. Gently rock the vehicle back and forth by alternating between forward and reverse gears. Using traction boards or shovelling mud away from the tyres can also help. Post-Mud Cleanup: After the adventure, clean your D-Max thoroughly, focusing on the undercarriage, wheel wells, and brakes to remove all traces of mud and prevent potential long-term damage. Inspect for Damage: Check for any damage to your tyres, suspension, and undercarriage to ensure everything remains in top condition. Pay particular attention to steering and braking systems to ensure there’s no issues.
To showcase D-Max’s exceptional off-road capabilities, Isuzu has recently built a one-off special project, the Mudmaster. Building on the V-Cross trim, it comes fully accessorised to enhance your muddy adventures. It features a snorkel for water wading, a winch for self-recovery, lifted suspension for increased ground clearance, and powerful lamps for superior visibility. These enhancements ensure you’re well-equipped to tackle the toughest muddy terrains.
George Wallis, Isuzu UK Head of Marketing, shared, “When it comes to mud driving, the 4×4 Isuzu D-Max pick-up is built to tackle the toughest terrain, so you can get down and dirty with confidence. Also, being responsible off-road doesn’t mean being a stick in the mud, the 4×4 D-Max will help you really enjoy the mudness.”
JSW MG Motor India has launched the MG Windsor at the price of a manual compact SUV. The Windsor, combining the comfort of a sedan and the expanse of an SUV, will be offered with innovative aerodynamic design, spacious and opulent interiors, reassuring safety, smart connectivity, driving comfort, and many hi-tech features. It is built on ‘Pure EV Platform’ with BaaS – a unique ownership program, MG Windsor is offered at INR 9.99 Lakhs + 3.5 Rs. /km for battery.
For the first time in India’s passenger vehicle segment, JSW MG Motor India is introducing an innovative ownership plan through Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) offering, which makes owning an electric CUV at the price of a manual engine-based compact SUV possible. This flexible ownership program eliminates the upfront cost of the battery, enabling customers to pay only for its usage. Essentially, buyers pay a nominal fee per kilometre driven, which is 40% of the fuel costs of conventional vehicles. This model significantly reduces the initial acquisition cost and lowers the per-kilometre expense, ensuring an economical and hassle-free ownership experience.
In addition, the company is offering a first-of-its-kind lifetime battery warranty to the first owner of MG Windsor. With the eHUB by MG app, the company is offering one year of free public charging, making it easier than ever for Windsor owners to power up anytime, anywhere. JSW MG Motor India is also introducing its 3-60 assured buyback plan for the Windsor which ensures that it will retain 60% of its value after 3 years/45,000kms.
The Intelligent CUV features an AeroGlide design language, which is futuristic and transcends the concept of traditional segmentation. The interiors are opulent and luxurious with spacious aero lounge seats that can be reclined to 1350, coupled with the expansive infinity view glass roof, adding to the business class experience. Immersive entertainment and smart connectivity features are powered by a massive 15.6-inch Grand View Touch Display in the central console.
The Windsor comes with the powerful PMS Motor which is IP67 certified. Impressive performance is derived through a 38 kWh Li-ion battery pack and four driving modes (Eco+, Eco, Normal and Sport) that deliver 100KW (136PS) power and 200Nm of instant torque, offering a range of 331 kms. It can be charged in 40 minutes at any DC fast charger.
Speaking at the launch, Parth Jindal, Director, JSW MG Motor India, said, “The MG Windsor is the realization of the vision and promise behind JSW MG India and marks a significant milestone in this journey. The Windsor is the first car that has come out of the JV and the team has worked very hard in developing and bringing it to the Indian market. This vehicle embodies our commitment to delivering to our Indian customers the best of innovation the world has to offer. As a crossover utility vehicle, the Windsor merges the comfort of a sedan with the expanse of an SUV, making it an ideal car for the Indian household. With its advanced features, innovative design, and disruptive pricing, the Windsor sets a new benchmark. I look forward to seeing the MG Windsor on our Indian roads, delighting our customers and helping them travel sustainably with comfort, style and power.”
Sharing his views on the occasion, Rajeev Chaba, CEO Emeritus, JSW MG Motor India said, “With its delightful features and easy to drive dynamics, MG Windsor will certainly invite newer sets of customers to try EVs. Enabling this, we have created a clear channel for smart and unique ownership through the BaaS program, complemented with additional benefits. With these initiatives, we are addressing the barrier of incremental upfront cost of owning an EV and supporting easy and hassle-free ownership through the user-friendly eHUB by MG app that brings the EV ecosystem to the fingertips of customers. I am confident that the overall package of the Windsor will prove to be a catalyst in strengthening the EV segment further for prospective car buyers.”
MG Windsor is a vision to bring the luxury of business class lifestyle and travel to the lives of every Indian. It is an ideal vehicle for customers looking to beat the bustling urban roads and tighter spaces in smaller towns, in comfort and style. The MG Windsor is being offered in three variants: Excite, Exclusive, and Essence; and four colours: Starburst Black, Pearl White, Clay Beige, and Turquoise Green.
A rare example of a coachbuilt Silver Cloud will form the centrepiece of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ annual presence at the world-famous Goodwood Revival, which takes place from September 6-8.
For its 120th anniversary year, the marque has designed the March Motor Works, located at the infield end of the main circuit tunnel, as a faithful replica of Berkeley Square and the Rolls‑Royce showroom on nearby Conduit Street in London’s Mayfair in 1964.
On display will be a magnificently maintained Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III; this sleek, elegant motor car is understood to be one of only around 100 examples of a fixed-head coupé (FHC) design ever built on the Silver Cloud III chassis by the legendary coachbuilder Mulliner Park Ward. It is finished in a handsome Brewster Green, with a Claret Red leather-trimmed interior. Under the bonnet is a hand-built, 6.2-litre, naturally aspirated V8 engine, delivering around 210bhp to the rear wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission.
The Silver Cloud III is historically important as the last predominantly owner-driven Rolls‑Royce to be offered as a rolling chassis, upon which clients could commission fully bespoke bodywork from Mulliner Park Ward or other specialist coachbuilders, as well as a complete motor car. (To be strictly accurate, Phantom VI remained in production as a separate chassis, albeit in small numbers, until 1993, with coachwork predominantly supplied by Mulliner Park Ward, which was by then a Rolls-Royce subsidiary. However, these were all limousines designed to be driven by a chauffeur.)
Berkeley Square and its environs were home to several luxury car showrooms at that time, including Jack Barclay. Charles Rolls was born a stone’s throw away in Hill Street, Mayfair, and would go on to establish his showroom in nearby Conduit Street, shortly after forming the partnership with Henry Royce in 1904: the March Motor Works showcases the premises as they would have appeared 60 years later.
Andrew Ball, Head of Corporate Relations & Heritage, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars said, “Goodwood Revival is a wonderfully eccentric, nostalgic and glamorous celebration of the cars, fashions and culture of the 1940s, 50s and 60s. During this period, Rolls-Royce produced some of the most memorable models in its long history, including the Silver Cloud III we are displaying in the March Motor Works this year. It’s a rare and beautiful example of the coachbuilder’s art from a time when Rolls-Royce offered its clients a Coachbuild option alongside its standard models – a service that’s enjoyed its own revival at the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood in the modern era. We’re delighted to be part of this remarkable event once again, particularly in our 120th anniversary year.”
Citroën India announces the New C3 featuring 6-speed automatic transmission and advanced enhancements that elevate the driving experience and reinforce Citroën’s commitment to innovation and excellence. The new models are now available at all La Maison Citroën dealerships, with introductory starting prices of ₹6.16 lakh for the New C3.
Shishir Mishra, Brand Director, Citroën India, commented, “We are thrilled to launch the New C3, now equipped with enhanced features and the highly anticipated addition of Automatic transmission option. These upgrades mark a bold step forward in our commitment to delivering the best-in-class driving experience. We’ve meticulously refined every aspect of the vehicle—from safety and technology to comfort and convenience. We are confident that this new version will appeal to an even wider audience, reinforcing our dedication to innovation and exceptional driving experiences that evolve with our customers’ needs.”
The latest updates to the New C3 significantly enhance both safety and convenience. In addition to the new 6-speed automatic transmission variant, the model range now includes six airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchors, and three-point seat belts for improved safety. Additional upgrades feature power window switches on the doors, grab handle on the front passenger side, auto-folding ORVMs, LED projector headlamps, and automatic air conditioning, all contributing to greater comfort and functionality.
With The MyCitroën Connectivity suite the New C3 offers 40 connectivity features for a tech-savvy driving experience at your figure tips including remote start stop with preconditioning, geo fencing, remote lock/unlock and marketplace fueling. In addition to the existing powertrain options, the New C3 will now be available with 6-speed automatic transmission mated to the proven 1.2 L Gen 3 PureTech engine delivering 110 PS and 205 Nm of torque ensuring confident and enjoyable driving.
These new features complement the C3’s existing attributes, which remain unchanged. The model continues to offer a class-leading wheelbase of 2,540 mm and Citroën’s renowned advanced comfort suspension system, delivering a ‘Flying Carpet Effect’ for an exceptionally smooth ride. The 26 cm infotainment system provides wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. The New C3 also retains its dual split LED DRLs, a compact 360 mm steering wheel for improved maneuverability, and intelligent storage solutions, solidifying its position as a standout in its segment.
The New C3 is now available at La Maison Citroën showrooms nationwide and can also be booked on the official Citroën India website (Citroen.in). Deliveries will start from September.
Citroën India has announced the delivery of India’s first mainstream ICE SUV Coupé- the Basalt to its first customer at the La Maison Citroën dealership in Delhi. This event marks a significant milestone in Citroën’s journey in India, reaffirming the brand’s commitment to bringing innovative and stylish vehicles tailored to the evolving needs of Indian consumers.
Theirry Koskas, Citroën Brand CEO graced the occasion and handed over the keys to the delighted customer, also present on the occasion were Shailesh Hazela, MD & CEO -Stellantis India and Shishir Mishra, Brand Head – Citroën India. The Basalt, India’s first mainstream ICE SUV Coupé has drawn widespread attention for its bold design, cutting-edge technology, and exceptional comfort, setting new benchmarks in its segment.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Thierry Koskas, Citroën Brand CEO, said, “Today is a landmark moment for Citroën in India as we deliver the very first Basalt to our esteemed customer in Delhi, giving Indian roads its first mainstream ICE SUV Coupé. The Basalt embodies our commitment to bringing innovative and stylish mobility solutions to the Indian market. This handover not only represents the start of a new journey for our customers but also highlights our dedication to India’s growing automotive market, where we see immense potential for continued growth. We are continuously updating our products and expanding our network to reach closer to customers.”
Shailesh Hazela, MD & CEO -Stellantis India said, “The Basalt has already received an overwhelmingly positive response from customers, reflecting their appreciation for the innovation, comfort, and style that Citroën is known for. By actively listening to their needs and feedback, we ensure that every update in our product portfolio meets their evolving demands. We invite more people to experience the Basalt firsthand and discover what makes it a true representation of Citroën’s unique approach to automotive excellence.”
The excitement generated by the Basalt’s launch will soon extend to customers across India, with additional handover ceremonies planned in various locations. Further customer deliveries have already begun. Citroën remains focused on offering products that meet the diverse needs of Indian consumers, with the Basalt serving as a prime example of the brand’s innovative approach.
Citroën India’s latest offering, the Basalt ICE SUV Coupé, seamlessly blends the sophistication of a Coupé with the practicality of an SUV, delivering a truly unique driving experience. With its advanced comfort features, intuitive technology, and striking design, the Basalt is poised to redefine its segment for Indian customers.
A fabulous 1957 Ferrari 335 S has won the coveted Best of Show award at this year’s Salon Privé Concours. Entered by American enthusiast Brian Ross, the Maranello sports-racer thrilled onlookers when it took part in the Tour Privé on Tuesday 27 August, and it proved to be just as popular with the expert judging panel when it appeared on the concours field the following day.
Chassis number 0674 was raced by Scuderia Ferrari during the 1957 season, and by a stellar driver line-up. In March that year, dashing young Englishman Peter Collins took the Ferrari to sixth place in the Sebring 12 Hours, sharing with French veteran Maurice Trintignant. Two months later, Wolfgang von Trips finished second in the gruelling Mille Miglia – the very race that has recently been immortalised in the Michael Mann blockbuster Ferrari.
Having been upgraded to 4.1-litre specification at the factory, the Ferrari was back in action in June 1957 at the Le Mans 24 Hours. Mike Hawthorn and Luigi Musso shared driving duties at La Sarthe, and although they failed to finish, ‘0674’ set the fastest lap of the race.
Its final outing as a works car was at the 1957 Caracas 1000km, when Hawthorn and Musso finished second. The car then passed to Luigi Chinetti – a hugely significant figure in Ferrari history, and founder of the North American Racing Team. Chinetti entered it for the Cuban Grand Prix in February 1958, when it was driven to victory in the shortened race by none other than English ace Stirling Moss.
After its period competition career, the Ferrari spent a number of years in the collection of renowned marque enthusiast Pierre Bardinon.
Second place overall in the Salon Privé Concours was presented to Lord Bamford’s magnificent Rolls-Royce Phantom II Sport Saloon by Freestone & Webb. Ordered new to the bespoke specification of cotton magnate Sir John Leigh in August 1933, it was built for fast touring in the UK and on the continent.
Sir John later sold the Phantom II after apparently ordering four brand-new Phantom IIIs in a single day! Having remained in the UK until the late 1950s, the Rolls-Royce subsequently spent 35 years in the ownership of an American enthusiast who lived in Toledo, Ohio.
The Phantom II was bought by Lord Bamford in 2013 and returned to its original two-tone paint scheme. A regular concours prize-winner, it was awarded the Churchill Cup for Most Exceptional Design at Salon Privé in 2022.
Third place overall in the 2024 Concours was presented to the 1927 Isotta Fraschini Tipo 8AS Fleetwood Roadster of Nic and Shelley Schorsch. This hugely significant car was ordered new by movie heart-throb Rudolph Valentino, with unique roadster coachwork that was designed by LeBaron of New York and built by the Fleetwood Metal Body Company.
With its long, flared open fenders and low-slung lines, it was a showstopper deserving of a Hollywood icon, but sadly Valentino died before his Isotta Fraschini was completed. It was nonetheless exhibited at the New York Auto Salon, then put on display in the front window of Isotta Motors, to be admired by throngs of Valentino’s adoring fans.
“We are truly delighted with this year’s Best of Show Ferrari 335 S by Scaglietti,” said Andrew Bagley, Chairman of the Salon Privé Concours. “You only have to look at the great names who raced it to realise how significant sports car it was and appreciate what a cherished place it holds in Ferrari history. This beautiful Ferrari competed in a golden period for sports-car racing, and we all now look forward to its entry into the Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award.”
This year’s Salon Privé Concours presented by Aviva Private Clients was the largest and most prestigious to date, with 72 cars being entered across 14 different classes. They ranged from the ever-popular Pre-war categories to celebrations of Bugatti, Rolls-Royce and Ferrari. Fan favourites included Legendary Liveries – which showcased iconic colour schemes such as a Silk Cut Jaguar XJR 8/9, an Alitalia Lancia Stratos HF and a 555 Subaru Impreza WRC97 – while a new class for 2024 honoured the 60th anniversary of the Ferrari 275.
All entries gathered on the beautiful South Lawn at Blenheim Palace, having come from as far afield as the USA, Thailand and even New Zealand. They were judged by an unrivalled panel of international experts, with all entries being adjudicated by the International Chief Judge Advisory Group (ICJAG). Salon Privé is one of four ICJAG Plus-designated events in the world, and the only one to be held in the UK.
FULL LIST OF WINNERS 2024 Salon Privé Concours presented by Aviva Private Clients
Best of Show 1957 Ferrari 335 S by Scaglietti entered by Brian Ross
Best of Show Runner-up 1933 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Sport Saloon by Freestone & Webb entered by Lord Bamford
Best of Show Third Place 1927 Isotta Fraschini Tipo 8AS Fleetwood Roadster entered by Nic & Shelley Schorsch
Chairman’s Award 1923 Rolls-Royce Springfield Silver Ghost Pall Mall entered by Jack Boyd Smith Jnr
Duke of Marlborough Award 1993 Lamborghini Diablo entered by Lars Nielsen
Most Iconic – The George Barry Gregory Trophy 1965 Rolls-Royce Phantom V by Mulliner Park Ward entered by Jody Klein
Class A: Pre-War Open Winner: 1927 Isotta Fraschini Tipo 8AS Fleetwood Roadster entered by Nic and Shelley Schorsch Honourable Mention: 1937 Cord 812 SC Convertible Phaeton entered by Yohan Poonawalla
Class B: Bugatti – Grand Prix to Grand Touring Winner: 1939 Bugatti Type 57 Cabriolet by Saoutchik entered by Anne Brockinton-Lee Honourable Mention: 1927 Bugatti Type 38 Philadelphia by Figoni entered by Luc Slijpen
Class C: Pre-War Closed/Elegance Winner: 1938 Bentley 4¼ L Brougham de Ville by James Young entered by Axel Schroeter Honourable Mention: 1930 Bentley 4½ L Sports Saloon by Freestone & Webb entered by Peter Little
Class D1:Inspiring Greatness – 120 Years of Rolls Royce (Pre-War) Winner: 1933 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Sport Saloon by Freestone & Webb entered by Lord Bamford Honourable Mention: 1911 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost ‘London-Edinburgh’ by Holmes entered by John Snook
Class D2: Inspiring Greatness – 120 Years of Rolls-Royce (Post-War) Winner: 1954 Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn DHC by Park Ward entered by Volker Schumann Honourable Mention: 1988 Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit 2-door by Hooper & Co. entered by Tony Robinson
Class E: Post-War Open Winner: 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S Cabriolet A entered by Albert Streminski Honourable Mention: 1960 Maserati 3500 GT Spyder by Vignale entered by Claudio Mosconi
Class F1: Post-War Closed (International) Winner: 1960 Maserati 3500 GT by Touring entered by Greg Newman Honourable Mention: 1968 Lamborghini Islero GT by Marazzi entered by John Day
Class F2: Post-War Closed (British) Winner: 1952 Jaguar XK 120 Supersonic by Ghia entered by Bill Heinecke Honourable Mention: 1986 Aston Martin V8 Vantage X Pack entered by Lee Malpass
Class G: Sports-Racers Winner: 1957 Ferrari 335 S by Scaglietti entered by Brian Ross Honourable Mention: 1954 Jaguar D-type entered by Vijay Mallya
Class H: Ferraris of the 1950s & ’60s Winner: 1953 Ferrari 166 MM Spider by Vignale entered by Lord Bamford Honourable Mention: 1963 Ferrari 400 Superamerica Coupé Aerodinamico by Pininfarina entered by Michael Korecky
Class I: 60th Anniversary of the Ferrari 275 Winner: 1965 Ferrari 275 GTB/C by Scaglietti entered by Private collector Honourable Mention: 1965 Ferrari 275 GTB 6C by Pininfarina entered by James Cottingham
Class J: Legendary Liveries Winner: 1996 Subaru Impreza WRC97 by Prodrive entered by Richard Coar Honourable Mention: 1974 Lancia Stratos HF by Bertone – Alitalia, entered by Christian Gläsel
Class K: Supercar Icons – Prancing Horse Winner: 1996 Ferrari F50 by Pininfarina entered by Karim Said Honourable Mention: 1985 Ferrari 288 GTO by Pininfarina entered by Martin Allmand-Smith
Class L: Supercar Icons to 2005 Winner: 2004 Porsche 996.2 GT2 entered by Rob Howarth Honourable Mention: 1993 Lamborghini Diablo by Gandini entered by Lars Nielsen
Honorary Awards Spirit Award – The Margaret Bagley Trophy 1960 Maserati 3500 GT Spider by Vignale entered by Claudio Mosconi
Most Exceptional Coachwork 1966 Ferrari 500 Superfast by Pininfarina entered by Andrew Bagnell
Most Opulent 1969 Rolls-Royce Phantom VI Park Ward entered by Murad Salikhov
Coup de Coeur – The Matt Pearce Trophy 1958 AC Ace entered by Mike Dacre
Best Interior 1939 Rolls-Royce Wraith by Mann Egerton entered by Edward Iliffe
Most Elegant 1932 Bugatti Type 55 by Gangloff entered by Shane Houlihan
Best Works Car 1956 Lister-Maserati entered by Christian Jenny
Best Liveried Race Car 1967 MGC GTS Lightweight entered by Martin Block
Best Open Car 1965 Ferrari 275 GTS by Pininfarina entered by Joe Macari
People’s Choice 1996 Ferrari F50 by Pininfarina entered by Paul Hogarth
The first updated Škoda Octavia built at the Kvasiny plant has rolled off the production line. The production of additional units of the brand’s bestseller in Kvasiny has been made possible thanks to the manufacturing of the new-generation Superb moving to the Volkswagen plant in Bratislava. At the same time, production of the Octavia continues at Škoda’s main facility in Mladá Boleslav. Around 7.5 million units have been produced since the first modern-generation Octavia was introduced in 1996.
Andreas Dick, Škoda Auto Board Member for Production and Logistics, says: “By producing additional units of the Škoda Octavia at our Kvasiny plant we are making efficient use of our flexible production network and fully utilising the capacities of our plants. In addition to comprehensively preparing for the production launch of additional Octavia units at Kvasiny, we have established a training centre providing the ideal setting to further train and upskill our team. I sincerely thank everyone involved in this project for their effort and dedication throughout the process.”
The additional units of the updated fourth-generation Škoda Octavia are produced on the same production line as the Karoq at the Kvasiny plant and where the Kodiaq SUV is also built. While preparing for the production launch of the updated Škoda Octavia, the carmaker opened a training centre in Kvasiny equipped with state-of-the-art technology, three robotic workstations for practical training and two classrooms for advanced theoretical instruction.
The first modern-generation Škoda Octavia rolled off the Mladá Boleslav production line in 1996. It was the first model to be developed entirely under the umbrella of the Volkswagen Group. In March 1998, Škoda introduced the even more spacious Octavia Estate and the first all-wheel-drive variant followed in 1999.
Produced between 2004 and 2013, the second-generation Škoda Octavia offered an upgraded engine range, enhanced technology, a more robust body compared to its predecessor and the large radiator grille took on a trapezoidal shape.
The third generation model was built on the Volkswagen Group’s then-new MQB A platform and offered a standard boot capacity of 590 litres for the hatchback and 610 litres for the estate. In 2017, the updated model came with split headlights featuring optional LED technology.
The current fourth generation of the Škoda Octavia debuted in November 2019. It is built on the updated MQB platform. Some of the petrol engines can be paired with mild-hybrid technology or all-wheel drive. The Octavia was comprehensively updated in spring, bringing a refreshed design, second-generation Matrix-LED headlights, further enhanced safety and comfort features, and new functions, including the integration of ChatGPT into the voice assistant Laura.
Across the four modern generations, approximately 7.5 million Octavias have been produced, continuing the legacy of the popular historical model, the first units of which were produced 65 years ago. Available as a two-door saloon or a practical estate, a total of 360,000 vehicles were produced between 1959 and 1971.
Ariel Motor Company, the UK-based low-volume manufacturer of ultra-lightweight road, track, and off-road vehicles, has unveiled the E-Nomad concept – a fully-electric version of its ultimate go-anywhere sportscar.
Matching the acceleration of its internal combustion engine sibling, the new e-Nomad concept can hit 60mph in just 3.4 seconds and retains the Nomad’s all-terrain high-performance capabilities. Weighing just 896kg, the E-Nomad features all-new natural fibre bio-composite bodywork that is recyclable and enhances aerodynamic efficiency to enable range of up to 150 miles (240km).
Ariel’s engineers designed, developed, and manufactured the zero emission E-Nomad concept at the company’s headquarters near Crewkerne in Somerset. Based on the recently launched Ariel Nomad 2, the new model is powered by a 41kWh 450-volt battery that feeds power to a rear integrated motor, gearbox, and inverter unit producing a maximum power output of 210kW (281bhp).
Delivered through a single speed gearbox, this power, along with 490Nm of torque, enables the rear-wheel drive car to achieve exceptional performance on-road, while remaining stable and controllable on challenging terrain. With constant torque on tap, the E-Nomad offers the same extreme on- and off-road performance as its petrol-powered sibling, showing that Ariel’s SERIOUS FUN ethos can also translate to SERIOUSLY CLEAN FUN.
Simon Saunders, Ariel Director: “While the E-Nomad is a concept, it does show production intent for the vehicle and hints at just a small part of Ariel’s future. Once it has been through our usual, gruelling testing regime we could opt to add E-Nomad alongside its ICE Nomad 2 sibling, so we’ll take great interest in customer feedback on the concept car.”
Developed with partners Rockfort Engineering and Bamd Composites, the Ariel ‘Zero Emission for Low Volume’ programme was grant supported by the UK’s Department of Trade, via the Advanced Propulsion Centre, and Niche Vehicle Network. A fully working prototype, the E-Nomad flags the direction and possibilities for future Ariel models as well as showcasing innovative technology applications at low production volumes.
Battery The 450-volt E-Nomad battery pack, developed specifically for the car by Rockfort Engineering, features the company’s all-new, adaptable Pegasus V3 modules that use high energy lithium-ion pouch cells. These modules offer best-in-class energy density to prioritise performance and range without compromising weight. The E-Nomad uses twelve Pegasus V3 modules with a total capacity of 41kW and power output of 210kW.
Weighing under 300kg, the lightweight, high-power battery unit contributes to minimising mass throughout the E-Nomad. It features integrated cooling and heating systems to extend battery life by maintaining optimum temperature both on- and off-road, as well as on track. A high-capacity, front-mounted, split-circuit radiator provides independent cooling to the battery, while a 5kW internal high-voltage heater can also pre-warm the battery in cold conditions to establish and maintain the most efficient working temperature.
Situated behind the driver / passenger bulkhead, the single battery pack is capable of AC (Type 2) and DC (CCS2) fast charging. This enables the E-Nomad to be charged at home on a normal domestic supply, or via a dedicated fast charger in under 25 minutes from 20% – 80%.
The powertrain is managed via a Rockfort Engineering tuneable control system allowing for changes in power delivery, regen, and different performance maps to suit the usage and driving characteristics. Driver adjustability will feature in further developments of the car, maintaining Ariel’s ethos of allowing the driver control over vehicle systems.
Drivetrain The E-Nomad uses a Cascadia Motion IDM90 combined motor, gearbox, and DX inverter drive unit weighing only 92kg. Powering the rear wheels, the unit features a Borg Warner eDM motor spinning to 12,000rpm and single speed transmission with reduction gearing of 8.28:1. A limited slip differential and parking lock are also part of the E-Nomad specification. The drive unit is water cooled via a secondary system, independent of the battery, from the front mounted, split-circuit radiator.
Body Re-enforcing the carbon reduction qualities of the E-Nomad, Bamd Composites produced all-new, lightweight, aerodynamic bodywork made from natural flax fibres. Selected for its mechanical and structural qualities, the prepreg material is made with northern European flax fibres from SHD Composites. The long, continuous, cellulose fibres of flax plants have excellent tensile strength and stiffness, as well as the plant itself being carbon capturing.
To give additional strength and further weight saving, the panels are backed by reinforcing ‘Power Ribs’ made from more bio-composite natural fibre. Manufacture of the material represents a 73% saving in CO2 when compared to carbon fibre and is 9% lighter than the equivalent carbon material.
CO2 savings were also maximised in the tooling manufacture of the prototype bodywork panels. Direct tooling resulted in a saving of over 50% in CO2 emissions over conventional moulding methods, using Ru-bix Halo-S tooling material and saving over 5,000kg of CO2 just in the production of the tools. Both tooling and bodywork are recyclable at end-of-life.
Development of the experimental bodywork fitted to the E-Nomad utilised the cloud-based Bramble CFD software, enabling Ariel to explore multiple aerodynamic possibilities. With an emphasis on maximising range as well as performance, the bodywork gives a 30% reduction in drag over the standard Nomad, while maintaining downforce and balance. Much of the drag reduction is derived from the roof panel, which also houses a full-size spare wheel.
General E-Nomad is fitted with Ariel’s new ABS system with driver selectable on- and off-road modes and has regenerative braking, feeding energy back to the battery and allowing one pedal driving. Two drive modes are available, ECO and Sport. The Sport mode allows full power and performance, while ECO reduces power and torque with different throttle and regen characteristics, for increased range.
A central switch panel allows selection of drive, neutral, reverse, and park settings with secondary functions to activate battery heater, charge system and switch between driving modes. In addition to displaying speed and air temperature, the AIM Technologies TFT instrumentation incorporates EV specific data including battery and inverter information, powertrain temperatures; drive mode; and battery charge status. The concept car also features a full data logging system and a host of other readouts that Ariel will use as part of its evaluation and development programme.
A revised Power Delivery Management (PDM) whole vehicle electrical system manages battery power states allowing automatic system ‘wake up’ or ‘sleep’ for charging and battery management, while minimising low battery drain during periods without use.
Ariel will debut the E-Nomad concept at the Cenex Expo 2024 on 4 September at UTAC Millbrook. While E-Nomad is not for sale, Ariel will monitor consumer reaction to inform its future plans. The Ariel team will test the prototype extensively to explore the full spectrum of potential future applications.
The name ‘Magnite’ is a portmanteau of the words ‘magnetic’ and ‘ignite’. Whereas ‘magnetic’ highlights the design and the product attributes that essentially attract customers, ‘ignite’ emphasises on the beginning of a new era that Nissan has successfully brought to India with products such as the Magnite.
Built on the philosophy of ‘Make in India, Make for the World’, Nissan India recently unveiled their much-awaited B-SUV with an AMT gearbox, in the avatar of the new Nissan Magnite EZ-Shift.
Earlier this month, we got an opportunity to get up close and personal with the Nissan Magnite EZ Shift. So buckle up and join us for the ride as we tell you everything you want to know about the new Nissan Magnite EZ-Shift AMT.
Design and Engineering
The Nissan Magnite EZ-Shift boasts of a futuristic and dynamic design. Set your eyes on the Magnite and the first thing that will catch your attention is that dominating front chrome grille which makes a bold statement and helps the Nissan Magnite to stand out as you drive-in anywhere.
Its muscular lines and dynamic styling ensure that the Magnite looks macho yet agile. Nissan has also added substance to the Magnite with the full beltline chrome strip running on the side below the windows.
The car has sleek headlamps assembled with lightsaber-style turn indicators, L-shaped Daytime Running Lamps (DRLs) and LED fog lamps which help the Magnite to make style statement and effortlessly lights up the carriageway in the dark. The rear too looks stylish with the sporty and sharp wide split signature tail lamps.
Bold square design of the wheel arches add to the dominating SUV look of the Nissan Magnite. The wider gap between the fender and the wheels helps reduce the bumpyness inside the cabin while driving through rough roads and uneven stretches. The 205 mm ground clearance of the Nissan Magnite ensured that we didn’t kiss even a single speed breaker while cruising in & around Kolkata and New Town. The sporty design of the alloy wheels adds to the style quotient and masculinity of the Magnite.
Interior and Comfort
On the inside, the Nissan Magnite EZ-Shift is both spacious and premium. Nissan has achieved a good balance of packaging and seating comfort. With 60-40 split foldable rear seats that offer flexibility, it is a spacious B-SUV, which has a decent ‘couple distance’ (distance between the driver and side passenger) of 700mm + rear knee room of 593mm + rear headroom of 76mm. The front seats are designed to create an open interior space, delivering the spaciousness that one would experience while sitting in the rear, also known as the ‘one-class-above’ knee room. The seats are well bolstered and even after a long drive, one wouldn’t experience any fatigue.
Intuitively designed, the interface and information cluster and the centre-stack are well-thought out for better accessibility without you having to take your eyes off the road. Its horizontal instrument panel structure double deck console makes it wider, spacious and provides plenty of functional storages. Along with that, the Nissan Magnite also has a tech pack which has a wireless charger, air purifier, puddle lamps and ambient /mood lighting, premium speakers (JBL powered by Harman).
The Nissan Magnite EZ-Shift is equipped with a 7-inch TFT meter with welcome animation and tyre pressure monitoring system and 8-inch infotainment display with full flush touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and built-in voice recognition. It also comes with Nissan Connect that offers 50+ features (geo fence, roadside assistance, smart watch connectivity etc.) to transform the car as per customer needs.
The Nissan Magnite EZ-Shift is also equipped the Around View Monitor (AVM), which gives the driver a virtual bird’s eye view from above the vehicle. The Magnite boasts of a luggage room capacity of 336 litre and can comfortably accommodate three suitcases.
Performance and Handling
Nissan Magnite EZ-Shift is powered by the HRA0 1.0-litre Turbo petrol engine mated to a 5-speed EZ-Shift gearbox. The engine delivers maximum power of 100PS and maximum torque of 160Nm, while claiming to deliver fuel-efficiency of 20kmpl (ARAI figure).
The Nissan Magnite’s suspension set up is well tuned to tackle Indian road conditions. It handles both good and bad roads with equal ease. We tested the car over certain broken stretches and the suspension absorbed the undulations without sending much jerks to the passenger cabin resulting in a plush ride quality.
Handling of the Magnite is impressive. The steering feels feather light while trying to maneuver the car in city traffic, but when you push the car on the highway, the steering begins to weigh up giving strong feedback to the driver. Body roll is well contained and cornering even at high speed seemed confidence inspiring with the Magnite remaining firmly planted to the ground.
The only drawback is perhaps the 5-speed AMT gearbox which is slightly sluggish in gear shifts, resulting in delayed throttle responsiveness and slow accelerations making the Nisssan Magnite EZ-Shift not-so-fun to drive.
Safety
The Nissan Magnite EZ-Shift is equipped with safety features such as Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), Hill Start Assist (HSA), speed sensing door lock, central locking and SRS dual airbag system with pretension & load limiter seatbelt for driver and passenger.
Nissan’s unique Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system increases the all-new Nissan Magnite’s stability, allowing the driver to have better control, especially in poor weather conditions. Additionally, the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) helps improve the driver’s braking ability while maintaining control of the vehicle in an emergency.
Verdict
The Nissan Magnite is well engineered products that ticks most of the right boxes and is scripting the success story for Nissan. With the combination of stylish looks, spacious interior, smart technology, good ride & handling and safety features, it is a car that has already gained immense popularity among the car buyers. And now with the convenience of the AMT gearbox, the Magnite EZ-Shift has become an even more attractive offering in its segment. The only negative in the entire package is sluggish gear shifts that lead to power lag which one has to adjust with. Apart from this, the Nissan Magnote EZ-Shift AMT seems all set to dominate its segment with increased propularity.
TVS Motor Company (TVSM) has launched the all new TVS Jupiter 110 with prices starting at INR 77,200 (ex-showroom).
The TVS Jupiter 110 is powered by a 113.3 cc, single cylinder, 4 stroke engine which generates a power of 5.9 kW@6500 rpm and a torque of 9.8 Nm@ 5,000 rpm (with iGO Assist) and 9.2 Nm @ 5,000 rpm (without Assist). The scooter encompasses pioneering technology that achieves a 10% increase in mileage compared to its predecessor. This is attributed to the innovative iGO Assist technology. It has an intelligent ignition system with auto Start-Stop functionality and ISG (Integrated Starter Generator) aimed at enhancing performance by harnessing power from the battery during overtaking and climbing. This facilitates additional acceleration precisely when required.
At the launch, Mr. Aniruddha Haldar, Senior Vice President — Head Commuter Business and Head Corporate Brand & Media, TVS Motor Company, said, “TVS Jupiter 110 has been the anchor of the TVS Motor scooter portfolio for the last decade. Over time, 6.5 million households have reposed their faith in this product, making it one of the biggest automotive brands out of India. The core DNA of Zyada Ka Fayda is further reinforced by the reimagined ALL NEW TVS JUPITER. The ability to deliver torque on demand, enhanced fuel-efficiency with loads of usable space, in contemporary design, sets the scooter in a league of its own. This superior proposition will continue to delight customers and build brand love for TVS Jupiter.”
Power Drive 