As Škoda Auto celebrates its 130th anniversary this year, the company is also marking half a century since the Škoda 130 RS made its public debut at the Most circuit. With a string of international successes on rally stages and racetracks, this legendary competition car has earned a lasting place in motorsport history. Its legacy lives on today, with the RS badge featured on the most dynamic models in Škoda’s current line-up. In addition to the special exhibition in the prototype and sports car depository at the Škoda Museum, the Czech carmaker is commemorating the anniversary with a special video celebrating its iconic racing car.

The Škoda 130 RS is one of the most iconic cars in the history of the Mladá Boleslav-based carmaker. In its day, it won numerous titles in both international rallying and circuit racing. Building on the strengths of its predecessors, the Škoda 180 RS and 200 RS, the Škoda 130 RS quickly became a formidable rival to established competitors thanks to its outstanding driving dynamics. Its many victories in prestigious events earned it a reputation as a powerhouse in Czechoslovak motorsport. To mark the 50th anniversary of its debut, three exemplars of the Škoda 130 RS are currently on display in the prototype and sports car depository at the Škoda Museum in Mladá Boleslav, where they will remain until 27 April.

A star on the international rally and circuit racing scene
Just a month after its public debut at the Most circuit in April 1975, the newly developed Škoda 130 RS coupé – designated Type 735 – achieved an impressive result in its first competitive appearance. In the European Touring Car Championship race in Brno, two Škoda 130 RS cars finished third and fourth in the under-2000 cm³ class. This initial achievement set the stage for a highly successful motorsport career for the 130 RS. It won trophies both within the Eastern Bloc and on the international stage, where it faced tough competition from leading Western brands.

Among its triumphs, the Škoda 130 RS secured a class victory at the legendary Monte Carlo Rally in 1977, finishing 12th overall. Other standout performances include eighth place in the overall rankings at the Acropolis Rally in 1979. In 1981, it repeated this remarkable success, once again demonstrating its ability to outperform significantly more powerful rivals.

The Škoda 130 RS also made its mark on the circuit racing scene, claiming the overall title in the 1981 European Touring Car Championship – its greatest success on the track – after consistently finishing among the top three in previous seasons.

The key to success: lightweight design and outstanding handling
The Škoda 130 RS was powered by a liquid-cooled, rear-mounted four-cylinder OHV engine with a displacement of 1.3 litres. Over time, its output increased from the original 113 hp to 142 hp in the circuit racing version. Thanks to the use of aluminium alloy panels and fibre glass components, the racing car weighed just 720 kg, enabling it to reach a top speed of 220 km/h.

However, the real strength of the Mladá Boleslav-built competition car lay in its handling and agility. Its well-balanced design inspired confidence in all driving conditions, allowing it to respond reliably under pressure. In its original factory specification, nearly 200 units of the Škoda 130 RS were produced, with dozens more built privately using factory-supplied components.

The legacy of the iconic RS badge lives on in today’s models and motorsport
It was the Škoda 130 RS that introduced the RS – Rally Sport – designation, which has since become an iconic symbol of Škoda’s high-performance models. This sporting heritage continues today in select models from the brand’s current line-up.

On the international motorsport stage, the Škoda Fabia RS Rally2 continues to uphold the RS name in the WRC2 category.

MGS5 EV will utilise the modular scalable platform (MSP) created for the award-winning MG4 hatchback, ensuring excellent dynamic performance whether in the city or open road as well as superb range, whilst providing the enhanced space, comfort and practicality offered by an SUV.

The incoming MG will showcase a striking new cabin appearance with advanced and premium features unique to this model, all of which are designed to raise the standards in the SUV segment.

Whilst MGS5 EV will challenge expectations, it will continue to underline MG’s strong commitment to offering outstanding and competitive value, especially in the EV market.

David Allison, Head of Product and Planning for MG Motor UK, comments:
“The MGS5 EV has all the credentials to impress, a generously equipped and spacious SUV but with the all-electric performance that MG customers enjoy so much. In terms of cabin ambience and technology this model will offer a new and greatly enhanced MG experience.”

Full details of the MGS5 EV will be released over the coming weeks.

The new BMW 3 Series Long Wheelbase was launched in India at an ex-showroom price of INR 62,60,000. Locally produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai, the car is available in the petrol variant at all BMW India dealerships. The diesel variant will be launched later.

Mr. Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “The new BMW 3 Series Long Wheelbase has set new standards in its segment with an elongated design, enhanced space, luxurious comfort and dynamic performance. Impressive in every way, it also possesses the most powerful engine in its class. With the new update, the 3 LWB has increased its appeal even further by adding new striking design elements and driver assistance features. As always, it continues to deliver sheer driving pleasure with superlative luxury, making it a perfect choice for individuals as well as their families.”

The new BMW 3 Series Long Wheelbase is available in four exciting metallic paintworks – Mineral White, Skyscraper grey, M Carbon Black and Arctic Race Blue. The choice of upholstery combinations includes Leather Vernasca Cognac.

More than ever, sporting elegance and modernity define the design of the new BMW 3 Series Long Wheelbase. The sophisticated design of the BMW kidney grille and twin circular headlights – both signature brand features – gives the front end an unmistakable appearance. Adaptive LED Headlights with projector lamps featuring cornering light functions are offered as standard resulting in peak performance and safety in low-visibility conditions. It’s dimensions – Length: 4,819 mm and Wheelbase: 2,961 mm – make it the longest car in the segment with the most spacious 2nd Seat row. The model’s stretched silhouette underscores its inherent elegance and hints at the enviable spaciousness of the interior. The Aluminium Satinated Exterior elements add to its luxury appeal. The Rear Diffuser in High Gloss Black enhances the bold appearance when seen from behind.

Advanced new features have also been introduced in the interior of the new BMW 3 Series Long Wheelbase. High quality materials, precise build quality and numerous meticulously crafted details set the tone for the refined premium character of the four-door sedan. The interior trim strips in the new Aluminium Rhombicle Anthracite finish creates a sporting ambience. The driver and front passenger settle into electrically adjustable Comfort Seats with extendable thigh support. The BMW Widescreen Curved Display which brings extra modernity and advanced digital services. The standard-fitted M leather steering wheel of the new BMW 3 Series Long Wheelbase now has a flat-bottomed rim. Filling up the cabin with a sense of spaciousness is the large Panorama sunroof. Ambient Lighting with six dimmable designs creates an atmosphere for every mood. In another model-specific feature, the ambient lighting also includes an illuminated contour strip on the back of the front seats. The newly designed Air vents add to the elegance of the interior. The three-zone automatic climate control with active carbon filters optimizes air quality.

Thanks to unrivalled BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, the petrol engine melds maximum power with exemplary efficiency and offer spontaneous responsiveness even at low engine speeds. The two-litre four-cylinder petrol engine of the BMW 330Li produces an output of 258 hp and maximum torque of 400 Nm at 1,550-4,400 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 km / hr in just 6.2 seconds.

The eight speed steptronic sport automatic transmission performs smooth, almost imperceptible gearshifts. At any time, in any gear, the transmission collaborates perfectly with the engine, enabling it to develop its full power and efficiency. For even greater driving pleasure, it comes with steering wheel paddle shifters and cruise control with braking function. Using Launch Control, ambitious drivers can achieve maximum acceleration with optimized traction from a standstill. Using the Driving Experience Control switch, the driver can choose between different driving modes to suit the driving conditions – ECO PRO, Comfort, Sport.

The BMW iDrive with Operating System 8.5, offers all the possibilities for interaction between occupants and the vehicle – using touch, gesture or speech. It is complemented by the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant system which has a self-learning intelligence that adopts a driver’s individual habits, proactively provides useful tips on new driving functions and seamlessly integrates smartphone apps. Wireless smartphone integration and regular Remote Software Upgrades ensure that the car is always up to date.

BMW Digital Key Plus sets a new standard in convenience. As soon as the driver approaches, doors automatically unlock, and a stylish welcome scenario commences with orchestrated lighting effect including a light carpet. Comfort Access System allows one to open the car door and start the engine without touching the key. Remote locking / unlocking is enabled via smartphone besides configuring top speed, engine power, maximum audio volume and more.

Park Assistant Plus with Surround View Camera makes parking in tight spots easier by taking over acceleration, braking as well as steering. The New Parking Assistant Plus also enables customers to have a remote 3D view of the car via the My BMW App. BMW Driving Assistant provides Blind Spot Detection and helps warn the driver for lane changes, front collisions, and rear collisions.

BMW EfficientDynamics includes features such as 8-speed Steptronic Sport Automatic Transmission, Auto Start-Stop, Brake-Energy Regeneration, Electronic Power Steering, 50:50 Weight Distribution and ECO PRO mode in Driving Experience Control.

BMW Safety technologies include six airbags, Attentiveness Assistance, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including Cornering Brake Control (CBC), electric parking brake with auto hold, side-impact protection, electronic vehicle immobilizer and crash sensor, ISOFIX child seat mounting and integrated emergency spare wheel under the load floor.

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. has launched the Scorpio-N Carbon Edition to mark a landmark achievement – 2,00,000 units sold of the Scorpio-N. The Scorpio-N Carbon expands the realm of Mahindra’s authentic SUVs with its unmissable design and sophistication.

The interiors of Scorpio-N Carbon highlight the tone-on-tone treatment with premium leatherette seats and contrast deco-stitching. Smoked chrome finishes add a touch of sophistication to the overall ambience.

The Scorpio-N Carbon stands apart with a distinctive Metallic Black theme that elevates its unmissable presence. The tone-on-tone dark treatment, complemented by smoked chrome accents, black alloy wheels and dark Galvano finished roof rails, exudes an air of exclusivity and dominance on every road.

Engineered to deliver the same exhilarating ride and impeccable handling that it is known for, the Scorpio-N Carbon Edition fuses sophistication with understated luxury.

Available exclusively in the Z8 and Z8L seven-seater variants, this special edition amplifies the Scorpio-N’s enduring legacy with its distinctive Metallic Black theme and uncompromising style.

Variant-wise Pricing – All prices are ex-showroom:

Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) through its pre-owned car program – Hyundai Promise, has achieved its highest-ever yearly sales in CY 2024, retailing 1,57,503 pre-owned cars with 5.8% YoY growth. Strengthening customer trust and value, Hyundai Promise recorded 35,553 certified pre-owned car sales, contributing 23% to its total volume, registering 8% YoY growth.

Hyundai Promise set a new benchmark in customer engagement, achieving its highest-ever exchange outreach of 20.4% in CY 2024. Among Hyundai Promise certified pre-owned car sales in CY 2024, the Hyundai i20, CRETA and GRAND i10 dominated sales, registering 55% of the total volumes. SUVs accounted for 21% of certified pre-owned car sales, with the CRETA being the highest contributor at 13% and VENUE at 8%, of total Hyundai Promise sales.

Commenting on Hyundai Promise sales, Mr. Tarun Garg, Whole-time Director and Chief Operating Officer, HMIL said, “The pre-owned car market in India has ample room for improvement in parameters like transparency, trust, and reliability – challenges that Hyundai Promise, as an OEM-owned network, directly addresses by using new-age technology and the trust of brand Hyundai. With over 1 million pre-owned car sales since inception, Hyundai Promise has redefined the experience of buying and selling used cars, making it more reliable, transparent, and hassle-free. The Hyundai CRETA stands as the most sought-after SUV with 13% contribution in the certified pre-owned segment, mirroring its unmatched popularity in the new car segment. SUV models such as the VENUE and CRETA fetch over 70% of its original price even after third year.”

Certified pre-owned cars retailed through Hyundai Promise go through a rigorous 161-point checklist before being listed on the platform. To ensure absolute reliability and a new-car like ownership experience, certified pre-owned cars by Hyundai Promise are offered with added benefits including a 1-year comprehensive warranty for cars aged under 7 years, and 6 months engine and transmission warranty on cars aged between 7-10 years. All certified pre-owned cars are also offered with road-side-assistance and upto two free services at no extra cost.

Hyundai’s innovative ‘Click-to-Buy’ platform on hyundai.co.in, offers a seamless digital buying and selling experience for pre-owned cars. Buyers can virtually explore certified pre-owned cars available at Hyundai dealerships, request test-drives and place a booking from the comfort of their homes. Sellers have the option of requesting for an evaluation, uploading all relevant documents and viewing the offer price – all through a hassle-free phygital process. Additionally, the H-Smart App for dealers enables seamless and transparent evaluation process, offering best price for used cars to the sellers.

Hyundai Promise makes the pre-owned car buying and selling process reliable, transparent and convenient through a network of 600+ dealers pan India.