As the successor to the Audi V8, the A8 has been the brand’s leading edge in the luxury saloon segment of Audi’s portfolio since 1994. The Audi A8 is a symbol of and a trailblazer for the status and prestige of the brand. The fourth generation of the luxury saloon, which Audi introduced in 2017, raised it to a new level concerning power, look, and equipment. As an initial series model, the A8 revealed the future design language upon its launch and consequently it is essentially the progressive face of the brand to the present day. The sharpened design coupled with established technologies and outstanding comfort in the back seats defines Audi’s premium conception in this segment. The saloon thereby represents the symbiosis of masterful comfort and sporty handling and it, therefore, covers the full breadth of driving experience. With precision in all details and many intelligent functions, the new A8 is a high-value technology pioneer.

The Audi A8 is a saloon that represents status and exudes authority – now that it has been reworked, its exterior is even more representative, confident, and athletic. The base of the Singleframe grille is now wider and chrome angles that increase in size from bottom to top adorn its grid. The side air intakes are more upright and just as freshly styled as the headlights, whose lower edge on the outside creates a distinctive contour. To summarize, the newly designed and precisely orchestrated design elements in the front area significantly increase the A8’s presence and authority and sharpen the profile of the brand’s top model.

From a side view, the luxury saloon’s progressive character is particularly eye-catching. The roof dome runs flat. Stretched lines in the body of the car emphasize its length, wide wheel arches hint at the standard quattro drive system. In all model variants, the rocker panel area has a concave shape and ends in a blade pointing toward the road. The rear is dominated by wide chrome clasps, a customizable taillight signature with Digital OLEDs, and a continuous, segmented light strip. The diffusor insert in the bumper is delicately accentuated and redesigned with horizontal bars. The Audi S8 presents four flow-optimized pipes under a circumferential contour – typical of the Audi S model. They are one of its characteristic sporty design details.

Beyond the basic exterior, Audi is offering its customers the chrome exterior package and the new S line exterior package. The latter gives the front a dynamic touch and differentiates even more from the basic model: a distinctive blade in the area of the side air intakes augments the frontal view – very similar to the S8. The look is even more defined with the additional black appearance package. The colour swatch for the A8 includes eleven colours, among them the new metallic district green, firmament blue, Manhattan grey, and ultra blue. Also new in the Audi A8 are five matte colours – Daytona grey, florette silver, district green, terra grey and glacier white. In the Audi exclusive program, the car is painted in the customer’s chosen colour.

The product enhancements only minimally change the dimensions of the Audi flagship in the luxury saloon segment. The A8 has a wheelbase of 3.00 meters (9.8 ft.), length of 5.19 meters (17 ft.), width of 1.95 meters (6.4 ft.), and height of 1.47 meters (4.8 ft.). The S8 is about one centimetre longer. The body of the A8 follows the same principle as the Audi Space Frame (ASF): it is made up of 58 percent aluminium parts. The passenger compartment consists of hot-formed steel components supplemented with an ultra-high-strength, extremely torsionally rigid rear panel made of a carbon-fibre-reinforced polymer. Magnesium strut-tower bars complete the lightweight construction concept. The body’s commanding rigidity lays the foundation for precise handling, excellent comfort, and acoustic tranquillity onboard.

Comparable with video projectors, the Digital Matrix LED headlights use DMD (digital micromirror device) technology. Each headlamp contains approximately 1.3 million micromirrors which dispersed the light into tiny pixels, which means that it can be adjusted with the greatest precision. One new function that this enables is lane and orientation lights for highways. Here, the headlights emit a carpet of light, which illuminates the driver’s lane particularly brightly. Above all, the orientation lights particularly help drivers intuitively stay in their lane at road construction sites. The Digital Matrix LED headlights can generate dynamic coming home/leaving home functions upon unlocking and leaving the car. They shine like projections on the ground or the wall.

The enhanced A8 comes with Digital OLED rear lights (OLED = organic light-emitting diode) as a standard feature. When ordering the car, there are two rear light signatures to choose from – three with the S8. When the “dynamic” Audi drive select mode is chosen, the lights change to a further signature that is only available in that mode.

In conjunction with the assistance systems, the Digital OLED rear lights have a proximity indication feature: if another vehicle comes within two meters (6.6 ft.) of a stationary A8 from behind, all the OLED segments are activated. Additional functions include dynamic turn signals as well as coming home and leaving home sequences.

The interior of the A8 is comparable with a spacious, widely tailored lounge – it offers an open, feel-good space. Its architecture is strictly horizontally oriented to emphasize its width. The formal language is still always restrained. In the dark, the ambient light package plus (standard with the S8) elegantly stages the interior and there are reading lights in the rear that use Matrix LED technology.

The range of seats and seat equipment in the enhanced A8 is varied, very comfortable, and radiates the highest degree of authority – especially for the back seats, where many options are available. The relaxation seat in the A8 L is the apex of the program. It offers numerous adjustment options and a footrest on the back of the passenger seat. Passengers can use it to have the bottoms of their feet warmed and massaged to various degrees. The relaxation seat package includes a back massage with 18 pneumatic cushions, electrically adjustable comfort headrests, an optional continuous centre console – also available with an optional fold-out table – four-zone deluxe automatic air conditioning, and the new screens in the rear.

The high-quality workmanship underscores the A8 interior’s workshop character. That goes for the precise perforations in the seat covers, the electrically opening and closing decorative trim, the air vent doors, or the velvety leather in the comfort headrests. The seats are upholstered with Valcona leather as a standard feature. Alternatively, Valcona leather is also available as an option with the possibility of choosing the new colour cognac brown. New to the program is the sustainable microfiber material Dinamica for the door panels, which can also be used for the pillar trim or the roof lining.

The MMI touch response operating concept in the Audi A8 relies on two displays (10.1-inch and 8.6-inch) and natural voice operation. The dialogue starts by calling out “Hey Audi!” The completely digital Audi virtual cockpit, with the standard head-up display, completes the display and operating concept and emphasizes the orientation to the driver. Important information is displayed directly in the driver’s line of sight.

MMI Navigation plus is standard in the enhanced Audi A8. It is supported by the third generation modular infotainment toolkit (MIB 3). The likewise standard online and Car-2-X services from Audi connect augment the navigation system. They are divided into two packages: Audi connect Navigation & Infotainment and Audi connect Safety & Service with Audi connect Remote & Control.

Attractive options are also available for the infotainment hardware. The new screens in the back are tailored to the expectations of today’s rear-seat passengers. That means two 10.1-inch displays with full HD resolution attached to the backs of the front seats. They display content from passengers’ devices and can receive numerous audio and video streams via casting, including from well-known streaming platforms, TV media libraries, or cellular networks.

The rear seat remote, which is now firmly mounted to the centre armrest, allows many comfort and infotainment functions to be controlled from the back seat. The control unit, with its OLED touch display, is about as big as a smartphone.

There are about 40 driver assistance systems available in the enhanced Audi A8. Some of them – including the Audi pre sense basic and Audi pre sense front safety systems – are standard equipment for the series. Options are clustered into the “Park,” “City,” and “Tour” packages. The assistance package plus consolidates the packages.

The highlight of the “Park” package is the remote park assist plus: it can automatically manoeuvre the large saloon into and out of a parallel or bay parking space. The driver does not even need to be in the car for it to do that.

The “City” assist package includes intersection assist, cross-traffic assist, side assist, exit warning, and the Audi pre sense 360° safety system, which induces a side crash enhancement in combination with the active suspension.

The “Tour” assist package, which is standard in the UK, is particularly comprehensive. Its central system is adaptive cruise assist, which adjusts longitudinal and lateral guidance throughout the vehicle’s speed range. Behind the assistance systems in the Audi A8 is the central driver assistance controller (zFAS), which continuously calculates a model of the environment.

The enhanced Audi A8 is available with four engine options. The 3.0 TDI and the 3.0 TFSI are V6 units, while the 4.0 TFSI in the S8 is a V8 with cylinder on-demand technology. The TFSI e plug-in hybrid model combines the 3.0 TFSI with an electric motor.

The 3.0 TDI is in the Audi A8 50 TDI quattro and the A8 L 50 TDI quattro. It brings 210 kW (286 PS) of power and 600 Nm of torque. The diesel engine accelerates both the A8 and A8 L from zero to 100 kmph (62 mph) in 5.9 seconds and on to the electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph), which is uniform across all A8 models.

The 3.0 TFSI drives the Audi A8 55 TFSI quattro with 250 kW (340 PS. From 1,370 to 4,500 rpm, it delivers 500 Nm of torque. From a standing start, it reaches 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.6 seconds.

The Audi S8 – inspirational performance in the luxury class
The Audi S8 TSFI quattro is the sporty top model in the series. The biturbo V8 generates 420 kW (571 PS) of power and 800 Nm of torque from 2,050 to 4,500 rpm. It does a standard sprint in 3.8 seconds. The COD system also increases efficiency in the S8. Sound flaps in the exhaust system sharpen the sound when desired. Additionally, the strongest model in the A8 family comes off the assembly line with particularly extensive standard equipment. Among other things, it comprises a unique combination of innovative suspension components, such as the predictive active suspension, sport differential, and dynamic all-wheel steering. With distinctive design elements in the interior and the exterior, the sporty character is purposefully staged.

All the previously mentioned motorizations come with mild hybrid technology (MHEV) as a standard feature, which uses the A8’s 48-volt main electrical system.

The Audi A8 60 TFSI e quattro and the A8 L 60 TFSI e quattro are the plug-in hybrid models (PHEV) in the series. The 3.0 TFSI is supported by a compact electric motor. The lithium-ion battery in the rear can now store a net 14.4 kWh (gross: 17.9 kWh) of energy – significantly more than before. With 340 kW (462 PS) of system power and 700 Nm of system torque, the Audi A8 60 TFSI e quattro goes from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.9 seconds (A8 and A8 L).

Plug-in hybrid model drivers can choose between four modes. “EV” stands for fully electric driving, “Hybrid” for an efficient combination of both drive system types, and “Hold” for conserving the available electric energy, while the combustion engine charges the battery in “Charge” mode. The maximum charging capacity – with alternating current – is 7.4 kW. Customers can use the compact e-tron charging system for that in their garage at home or the mode 3 cable when they are on the road. In Europe, the Audi e-tron Charging Service grants access to approximately 250,000 charging points.

All engines in the Audi A8 are connected to a fast and gently toggling eight-step tiptronic. Thanks to an electric oil pump, the automatic transmission can change gears even when the combustion engine is not running. The constant all-wheel drive quattro with the self-locking centre differential is standard, optionally supplemented with the sport differential (standard in the S8, not available for plug-in hybrid models). It actively distributes torque between the rear wheels during fast cornering and thereby makes the handling even sportier and more stable.

The standard suspension system in the enhanced Audi A8 impresses with its balanced character. It combines sporty driving fun with confident comfort, due in part to the distinct driving profiles that the Audi drive select handling system has on hand. The adaptive air suspension with controlled damping is standard. Progressive steering is another standard feature. Dynamic all-wheel steering is also available as an option. It is standard equipment in the Audi S8.

The highlight of the enhanced S8 is the predictive active suspension. It can load or unload each wheel with additional power individually via an electric motor and thereby actively regulate the position of the chassis in any driving situation. Predictive active suspension gives the driving experience in the enhanced Audi S8 a fascinating range. When dynamic mode is on in the Audi drive select system, the large saloon shows its sporty side. It firmly turns into corners, the roll angles are small, and the body hardly dips when braking. In comfort+ mode, by contrast, it smoothly breezes over unevenness. Here, the steering works in conjunction with the front camera, allowing it to recognize unevenness within the system limitations and predictively regulate the actuators.

In comfort+ mode, the predictive active suspension has a special feature: its integrated curve tilting function reduces the lateral acceleration that acts on the occupants. Upon entering a curve, it elevates the side of the body on the outside of the curve and lowers the other side, thereby tilting it into the curve up to three degrees. At speeds between 80 and 130 kmph (59.7 to 80.8 mph) and lateral acceleration of up to 0.4g, cornering is scarcely noticeable.

While driving straight in comfort+, the predictive active suspension compensates for pitching movements in the chassis. To help with getting in and out of the car comfortably, the body raises and lowers itself by up to 50 mm (2 in.).

The wheel range for the enhanced Audi A8, which goes from 18 to 21 inches, including new designs.

The all-new Kia EV6 electric crossover has been voted ‘2022 German Car of the Year’ in the ‘Premium’ category of the ‘German Car of the Year’ (GCOTY) awards. The prestigious accolade comes at a time when the innovative crossover continues to make its highly anticipated debut around the world.

The EV6 fought off competition from a series of contenders to take the top honour, with the innovative crossover beating a diverse set of rivals that included the Hyundai IONIQ 5, Volkswagen ID.4, Audi Q4 e-tron and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, among others. A jury consisting of 20 automotive journalists evaluated new models with a base price of between 25,000 and 50,000 euros to determine the overall category winner.

“The EV6 is not only the first Kia based on our new Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), it’s also the first car that incorporates our new and bold Opposites United design philosophy as well as the all-new company logo,” said Luc Donckerwolke, Chief Creative Officer at Hyundai Motor Group. “The EV6’s emotional design, dynamic performance, impressive driving range and ultra-fast charging capabilities truly mark it out as something special. We are proud to receive the German Car of the Year’s Premium award that acknowledges the brilliant work of our dynamic Kia team.”

In addition to the three main categories that included ‘Compact’, for vehicles priced under 25,000 euros, ‘Premium’, for vehicles priced between 25,000 and 50,000 euros, and ‘Luxury’, for vehicles priced over 50,000 euros, the competition also included an additional ‘New Energy’ category, which represented electric vehicles powered solely by batteries or hydrogen. The Kia EV6 ranked highly in this category by coming second, just behind the category winner Hyundai IONIQ 5.

“It’s fantastic to see the EV6 win the ‘2022 German Premium Car of the Year’ award,” said Jason Jeong, President at Kia Europe. “While the first deliveries of our innovative electric crossover have only just begun, this honor is clear recognition that the EV6 is already setting new standards for driving range, performance, interior space and technology.”

The all-new Kia EV6 brings long-range, zero-emissions power, 800V ultra-fast charging and distinctive styling to the crossover SUV market. The EV6 enables the vehicle to achieve up to 528 kilometers of driving range from a single charge on the WLTP combined cycle, while advanced 800V charging technology means drivers can charge from 10 to 80 percent in just 18 minutes.

The EV6 also is the first dedicated BEV produced by Kia using the all-new Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), and forms the first part of Kia’s transition to the new era of electrification under the new brand slogan, ‘Movement that inspires’. Kia, under its ‘Plan S’ strategy, plans to introduce 11 EV models in total by 2026 including seven dedicated BEVs based on E-GMP.

Available in both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations, customers can choose between long-range (77.4 kWh) and standard-range (58.0 kWh) high-voltage battery packs. The 77.4 kWh battery pack is paired with a 168 kW (229 PS) electric motor powering the rear wheels, while AWD models featuring two electric motors can produce a total of 239kW (325 PS). A performance oriented all-wheel drive EV6 GT featuring 430 kW (585 PS) and the ability to accelerate to 100 kmph in just 3.5 seconds will go on sale at the end of 2022. The 58.0 kWh battery pack is paired with a 125kW electric motor powering the rear wheels, while AWD models featuring two electric motors can produce a combined 173kW (235PS).

Volvo Car India has launched two new petrol mild-hybrid models – the luxury sedan S90 and the Volvo’s best-selling mid-size luxury SUV XC60. These launches are in line with the company’s aim to a complete petrol portfolio by end of 2021. The launch took place at the Volvo Cars Dealership in Kolkata, SPL Volvo Newtown, Rajarhat.

The New Petrol mild-hybrid Volvo S90 is priced at Rs. 61,90,000, ex-showroom and the New Petrol mild-hybrid Volvo XC60 is priced at Rs. 61,90,000, ex-showroom. Both these models come with several advanced features that enhance the Volvo driving experience. Features like Digital Services giving access to Google apps, other apps and services which offer hands-free help with Google Assistant, best-in-class navigation through Google Maps are available in both the models. The cars also feature the intuitive, next generation infotainment system that offers customers both personalisation and a connectivity.

In addition to the new petrol mild-hybrid cars and new technologies, the company also announced 3 years’ Volvo Service Package at a special price of only Rs 75,000 plus applicable taxes. This can be bought with the new launched cars. This is an introductory offer only during the current festive season which includes regular maintenance plus wear & tear cost over 3 years.

“Kolkata has been a very important market for us and is amongst the fastest-growing metro cities and home to aspiring and affluent families. Volvo Cars believe in providing the best-in-class experience to its esteemed customers and ensures a top-notch customer experience throughout the customer journey. The luxury mobility customer in Kolkata has always been safety and features conscious and we are confident that they will find our technology loaded new offerings exciting.” said Mr. Rajeev Chauhan, Director Network & Product, Volvo Car India.

Volvo Car Group has teamed up with Google on integrating an infotainment system powered by Android with Google apps and services. Volvo is committed to safety and sustainability and offer its car users the most advanced features.

The S90 is Volvo’s premium 4-door, 5-seat flagship sedan. It is built on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA), Volvo’s advanced modular vehicle platform. The SPA platform has resulted in the strongest Volvo cars to date because of extensive use of boron steel, as well as numerous safety systems designed to protect people inside and outside the car.

Winner of the World Car of the Year title in 2018(the immensely popular XC60 has now advanced safety upgrades like Volvo Cars’ latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) sensor platform, a modern, scalable active safety system that consists of an array of radars, cameras and ultrasonic sensors.

Tennis legend Rafael Nadal today signaled his commitment to promote ecofriendly mobility by increasing the use of Kia’s first dedicated EV, the new EV6 crossover, at a handover ceremony at the Rafa Nadal Academy in his Spanish hometown of Manacor, Mallorca.

At the event, Nadal was provided with a customized EV6 GT-Line as a demonstration of the two longstanding partners’ shared vision for creating a better world and to inspire a new generation of drivers to embrace electric mobility. The ceremony followed the European launch of the EV6 crossover and served to highlight Kia’s new brand purpose – “Movement that inspires.”

In line with the commitment, Nadal will actively use the EV6 crossover for his personal mobility in Mallorca as well as at major tennis tournaments such as the 2022 Australian Open. Furthermore, he has expressed his interest to convert all vehicles used at the Rafa Nadal Academy and Rafa Nadal Foundation to electric vehicles by 2022.

“My job naturally requires a lot of travel, and my lifestyle is not fully sustainable. But I’m determined to make the necessary changes where I can, starting with my personal use of the EV6 crossover in Mallorca and beyond,” said Nadal at the event. “I feel lucky to have the support of Kia and the new EV6 that will help drive my commitment. I would like to encourage others to join me in driving these kind of vehicles wherever possible.”

The ceremony was illuminated by a tennis court, dubbed the “EV6 Court,” whose lighting system was electrically powered by a customized EV6 GT-Line. The first dedicated electrified crossover vehicle by Kia boasts an advanced V2L (vehicle-to-load) function and serves as a portable, self-generating power supply.

“We at Kia strongly believe in our ethos that movement inspires ideas. The EV6 is the model that embodies this new brand ethos of ours, and we feel privileged to have Rafa on our team as our global brand ambassador for the past 15 years,” said Artur Martins, Senior Vice President and Head of Kia’s Global Brand and Customer Experience Division. “He is not only one of the greatest athletes in history but an icon of inspiration who constantly strives to make a positive impact in the world through his diverse social contribution activities.”

The EV6 crossover was launched to play a key role in Kia’s new vision to offer accessible, sustainable and innovative mobility solutions to people around the world. It represents a pioneering solution for future electrified mobility and aims to elevate the industry standard at a time the automotive world at large is quickly transitioning toward full electrification. The EV6’s vehicle-to-load (V2L) function demonstrated at the EV6 Court of the Rafa Nadal Academy can supply up to 3.6KW of electricity and be used conveniently as a portable power supply for leisure and other everyday activities.

TVS Motor Company recently announced the launch of the TVS iQube Electric scooter. As part of the company’s expansion plans, the scooter was launched in 22 new cities, including Kolkata, on the same day. TVS iQube Electric is a green and connected, fun to ride urban scooter powered by an advanced electric drivetrain and next-gen TVS SmartXonnect platform.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. K.N. Radhakrishnan, Director & Chief Executive Officer, TVS Motor Company, said, “TVS Motor Company is transforming into a digital age company offering world class Green and Connected products. As India moves ahead, its mobility solutions would increasingly be experience-led, and nowhere is this felt sharper than among the youth of India. Our focus on India’s youth is embodied in the first of the TVS electric portfolio. TVS iQube Electric is a blend of an advanced electric drivetrain and the next-gen TVS SmartXonnect platform. After a successful response in 11 key markets in India, we are thrilled to bring our electric scooter to Kolkata, along with 21 new markets on the same day, and are confident to scale great heights. The TVS iQube Electric ecosystem is built around digital platforms that enable complete digital retail experience to customers.”

TVS iQube Electric is equipped with a 4.4 kW electric motor to deliver high power and efficiency with no transmission loss. The scooter has a maximum speed of 78 kmph and traverses 75 kms with a full charge. The scooter can sprint from 0 to 40 kmph in 4.2 seconds.

TVS iQube Electric is equipped with proprietary next-gen TVS SmartXonnect platform, advanced TFT cluster and TVS iQube app. This app offers multiple features such as Geo-fencing, remote battery charge status, navigation assist, last park location, and incoming call alerts/SMS alerts.

TVS iQube Electric comes with innovative features for delivering conveniences such as Q-park assist, multi-select economy and power mode, day and night display, regenerative braking, and provides a noiseless and comfortable ride.

Available in a striking white colour, TVS iQube Electric is designed to reflect the contemporary lifestyle, and the design is stylish, subtle and functional. It is equipped with crystal-clear LED headlamps, all-LED tail lamps and sports an illuminating logo.

TVS iQube Electric can be booked through the website with a booking amount of INR 5,000. This will be followed by an end-to-end transparent digital purchase experience and customer relationship assistance for purchase and support. The customer can also avail of attractive finance schemes offered by TVS Credit. TVS has also initiated completely contactless delivery of vehicles to customers keeping their safety and convenience in view.

TVS Motor Company is committed to providing customers with comprehensive charging support, ranging across multiple charging options. Customers can avail of the recommended choice of SmartXHome, which offers a dedicated home charging solution with BlueTooth connectivity, live charging status and RFID enabled security. At present, charging units for the scooter will be installed at three locations in Kolkata. Further, the company is developing an expansive public charging ecosystem by expanding network strength across the city.

TVS iQube Electric will be available in select dealerships across Kolkata from today, at an on-road price of Rs.116491 (post FAME II subsidy).

Salient Features
• Max speed of 78 kmph
• 0 to 40 kmph in 4.2 seconds
• Q-park Assist
• Regenerative Braking
• Geo-fencing
• Navigation Assist
• Remote Charge Status
• Smart Ride Statistics
• Range Indication
• Battery charge status
• Over-speed alert

Audi today commenced bookings for the new Audi Q5 in India with a booking amount of INR 2 Lakhs.

Commenting on the announcement, Mr. Balbir Singh Dhillon, Head of Audi India said, “Today, we open bookings for our strong addition to Audi’s successful Q family in India – the Audi Q5. This will be our 9th product launch for 2021 and we couldn’t be more happy about our progress for the year. The new Audi Q5 is a perfect blend of features, comfort and practicality in its segment. With its new design that captivates at first glance, we are confident that it will continue to retain its leadership position in the segment and woo the existing and prospective customers.”

The new Audi Q5 with an elegant design comes with quattro all-wheel drive. The Audi Q5 boasts new features such as 48.26 cm (R19) 5 double-spoke star style alloy wheels, Audi Park Assist, comfort key with sensor controlled boot-lid operation, Audi Exclusive Inlays in Black Piano Lacquer, Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus, B&O Premium 3D Sound System.

The Audi Q5 is also fitted with suspension with damping control on all four wheels. With its powerful 2.0L TFSI engine, the Audi Q5 offers impressive acceleration and agility and its quattro all-drive provides exceptional traction and directional stability, for all driving experiences.

For more than 40 years, the permanent quattro all-wheel drive has been one of Audi’s key technologies. Outstanding traction, high driving safety and enormous driving dynamics characterize Audi’s permanent all-wheel drive. This makes quattro a trump card for the brand. Audi quattro is fascination, quattro is emotion. The quattro all-wheel drive system is an Audi cornerstone. Now Audi is making it even better – with new models and new technologies. quattro in an electrified powertrain represents a completely new concept for the mobility of the future.

Tata Motors today launched its latest offering Tata Punch sub-compact SUV which is also the recipient of the Global NCAP 5-star rating (16.453) for adult occupant protection and 4-star rating (40.891) for child occupant protection. With several segment-first features being offered, the Tata Punch will be available at a starting price of Rs. 5.49 lakh for the Pure MT trim, and going up to INR 9.09 lakh for the Creative AMT variant (ex-showroom Delhi).

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Shailesh Chandra, President – Passenger Vehicles Business Unit (PVBU), Tata Motors, said: “With PUNCH, we have created an entirely new category altogether to address a growing need for small-in-size cars with a true SUV character. Designed under Impact 2.0 design language, the PUNCH is a stunning, bold SUV. It’s tall stance, high ground clearance and commanding driving position provides an exhilarating driving experience even while navigating all the unexpected challenges that Indian roads throw in one’s way. The class leading comfort, advanced infotainment and connectivity match the high expectations of the increasingly discerning Indian car-buyers. Even ahead of its launch, the PUNCH has already got off to a great start by bagging the GNCAP 5-star rating for safety. This is a proud moment for us not only as an entity but also as an Indian carmaker as we continue to deliver on our promise of safety with almost every new product in the market. We are extremely confident that with the kind of differentiation, the feature package and the absolute safety the PUNCH has to offer, it will definitely make its mark in the dynamic Indian car market in the days to come.”

Tata Motors Design Studios in India, UK, and Italy collaborated to design this vehicle which was further engineered and developed by Tata Motors India team. Built on the Agile Light Flexible Advanced (ALFA) Architecture, the Punch incorporates several industry first innovations to enhance both functionality and driving pleasure. Furthermore, in a departure from the conventional industry practice of trims, Tata Motors has adopted a new age, human centric approach in developing the Punch family. It will be available both in Manual (MT) and Automatic (AMT) transmission options, in 4 distinct personas with – Pure, Adventure, Accomplished and Creative, to cater to the varied lifestyle of its customers.

The Pure persona has been designed for customers who appreciate minimalism and simplicity and prefer functionality without any complications. The Adventure persona caters to the customers who have a streak of adventure and love for the great outdoors. The Accomplished persona is for the city dweller who loves to make a style statement with host of features to complement the customers’ active metro life. Finally, the Creative persona is tailor-made for the digital native, who prefers information at his/her fingertips and is stacked with features to sync with this customer’s tech-savvy lifestyle. In addition, customers can mark their Punch by choosing from 7 vibrant colours and further personalise it with the Rhythm and Dazzle customization packs, in tune with their personality.

BMW India has launched the new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine Iconic Edition in the country. Locally produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai exclusively for the Indian market, the car is available in both petrol and diesel variants at all BMW India dealerships from today onwards.

The long wheelbase ‘Gran Limousine’ Iconic Edition is a latest addition to the BMW 3 Series family. It is the long wheelbase version of the highly successful BMW 3 Series. It has been launched in India considering the clientele’s preference for long sedans.

Mr. Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “BMW India will celebrate this festive season with the launch of three fascinating limited editions across its product range. The 3 Series Gran Limousine has set a new standard in luxury with its elongated design, enhanced space, luxurious comfort and dynamic performance. We are delighted to present the new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine Iconic Edition with an enhanced, unique and captivating character. It delivers sheer driving pleasure and indulges in superlative luxury, making it a perfect choice for individuals as well as their families. Limited units of this ‘Iconic Edition’ Gran Limousine are tailored with an innovative proposition that will attract young, progressive Indians who want a perfect combination of sporty performance and higher practicality for family usage in this segment.”

The new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine Iconic Edition blends the joy of driving and comfort of a spacious sedan. The grandeur rises many notches higher, thanks to a modern design with a larger, elongated body and bigger rear doors. Due to the extended wheelbase, there is more room to unwind, more legroom for rear passengers and a pleasant seating experience even on long journeys. The powerful engine ensures thrilling performance and acceleration. The long list of indulgence features such as BMW Iconic Glow Kidney Grille, Exclusive Crystal Gear Shift Knob, Rear Seat Headrest Cushion, Panorama Glass Sunroof, Comfort Seats in front, bespoke ‘Vernasca’ leather upholstery, luxurious rear seat, Parking Assist with Reverse Assist, Ambient Lighting, BMW Live Cockpit Professional and Wireless Charging adds to its appeal.

The new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine Iconic Edition is available in one diesel variant (BMW 320Ld Luxury Line) and one petrol variant (BMW 330Li Luxury Line) which are locally produced. The ex-showroom prices are –

BMW 330Li Iconic Edition : INR 53,50,000

BMW 320Ld Iconic Edition : INR 54,90,000

The new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine Iconic Edition is available in three metallic paintworks – Mineral White, Carbon Black and Cashmere Silver. Upholstery in Cognac | Black

The exterior body design of the new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine Iconic Edition blends the new, extremely precise design language and sporting aura of the BMW 3 Series with distinctive proportions. The unique character in long-wheelbase guise stems from an extra 110 millimetres of wheelbase and the associated increase in seating comfort and legroom in the rear compartment. Encompassing an exterior length of 4,819 millimeters and a 2,961-millimetre wheelbase, the exterior dimensions of the new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine Iconic Edition outstrip those of any other car in its class.

Creating a striking front look is the large BMW Iconic Glow Kidney Grille with single surround for the two elements and LED headlights with extended features. The kidney grilles Iconic Glow lends the vehicle a unique radiance. LED lighting exclusively sets the scene for the BMW kidney grille and the zone in front of the vehicle from opening to starting and from switching off the ignition to locking the vehicle. BMW’s hallmark sporting prowess is embodied here by short overhangs, a long bonnet and a set-back passenger compartment. The model’s stretched silhouette underscores its inherent elegance and hints at the enviable spaciousness of the interior. A sporty look is created by the slim three-dimensional L- shaped LED taillights along with two large freeform tailpipes.

The interior is designed to accentuate cabin spaciousness with ample legroom in the rear compartment, which sets a new benchmark in the class. The comfort-oriented character is highlighted through improved padding and pampering Vernasca leather upholstery of the rear seats, newly designed headrest and the central armrest between the rear seats. The exclusive Crystal Gear Shift Knob lends the cockpit a modern look with its eye-catching facets and an illuminated “3” model logo for an even more elegant look at night. The rear seat comfort is further enhanced with Rear Seat Headrest Cushion and Coat Hanger with base carrier. The large 480 litres luggage compartment meets the needs of long-distance travel. The automatic tail-gate operation increases access convenience by enabling the boot lid to be opened / closed at the press of a button.

Welcome Light Carpet, projected from the side sill, welcomes passengers in glamorous style. Added to which, the car comes with illuminated door sill plates. The driver and front passenger settle into electrically adjustable Comfort Seats with Sensatec door trim. The driver-focused cockpit includes a sports leather steering wheel with multifunction buttons along with the instrument cluster / control display grouping. The modern design of the centre console with galvanic embellisher adds to the cabin’s premiumness. 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 three-zone automatic climate control with active carbon filters optimizes air quality. The optimised acoustic properties reduce noise levels and make the journey peaceful.

Thanks to unrivalled BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, the petrol and diesel engines meld 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 two-litre four-cylinder diesel engine of the BMW 320Ld produces an output of 190 hp and a maximum torque of 400 Nm at 1,750 – 2,500 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 km / hr in just 7.6 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 and Sport+.

A host of BMW ConnectedDrive technologies continue to break the innovation barrier in automotive industry. Modern cockpit concept BMW Live Cockpit Professional includes 3D Navigation, a 12.3-inch digital instrument display behind the steering wheel and a 10.25 inch Control Display. The occupants can operate a number of functions simply by speaking to their BMW Virtual Assistant. The smartphone holder integrated into the centre console allows inductive, Wireless Charging for mobile phones. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto ensure seamless smartphone connection with the car to access several functions. The car has a Harman Kardon Surround Sound system with 16 loudspeakers.

Parking Assistant with Rear View Camera makes parking in tight spots easier. Reversing Assistant provides unmatched support in reversing out of a parking spot or through narrow driveways. It keeps a record of the last 50 metres driven and assists by taking over the steering.

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.

Kia India has announced the launch of the Kia Sonet 1st anniversary edition to celebrate the first successful year of its compact SUV. Building on its design-led identity, the Sonet 1st anniversary edition offers a bold look. The design of this anniversary edition variant is inspired by Aurochs, a large wild Eurasian bull, imparting a more muscular demeanour to the Sonet and is distinctively visible through the Aurochs inspired Front and Rear Skid plates with tangerine accents.

The exclusive tiger nose grille on the 1st anniversary edition features hot-stamped tangerine accents lending an undaunted outlook to the compact SUV. In addition to this, the new Sonet also features Aurochs side skid plates to offer a bolder and butch appeal to the vehicle along with side door garnish and centre wheel caps in tangerine accent and anniversary edition emblem. The Sonet 1st anniversary edition is available in four powertrains options, 1.0 T-GDi petrol engine with Smartstream 6iMT & 7DCT and 1.5-litre CRDi diesel engine with 6MT (in WGT configuration) & 6AT (in VGT configuration). The Anniversary edition Sonet is offered in four exterior colours – Aurora Black pearl, Glacier white pearl, Steel silver & Gravity grey, starting at a price of INR 10,79,000 (ex-showroom, pan India) and are limited edition variants.

Mr. Tae-Jin Park, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Kia India said, “The Sonet has been one of our breakthrough products that have contributed to Kia’s success in India. With sales of more than one lakh units in less than a year, the Sonet has already established itself as one of India’s highest-selling compact SUVs. To celebrate this adoration, we are excited to launch the anniversary edition of the Sonet. Carved out of sheer design excellence, the Anniversary edition Sonet is based on the concept of Aurochs and boasts a muscular look offering a bolder and premium driving experience to our young-at-heart customers.”

Ex-showroom Price:

Powertrain	Transmission	Price
Petrol 1.0 T-GDi	Smartstream 6iMT	INR 10,79,000
Smartstream 7DCT	INR 11,49,000
Diesel 1.5 CRDi WGT	6MT	INR 11,09,000
Diesel 1.5 CRDi VGT	6AT	INR 11,89,000

Kia Sonet has proven to be a runaway success model for Kia India, with sales of more than 100,000 units in just under a year. A segment game changer, the new Sonet is loaded with all the innovative offerings, which a customer looks for in a sub-compact SUV. Launched during mid-pandemic, the Sonet has revolutionised the compact SUV segment with its dynamic stance in a confident and compact body.

MG Motor India has launched the mid-size SUV MG Astor with India’s first personal AI assistant and first-in-segment Autonomous (Level 2) technology, at a special introductory ex-showroom price of Rs. 9.78 Lakh.

Astor is positioned in the premium mid-size SUV segment. Customers can choose between variants starting from Style, going up to Super, Smart, and the top-of-the-line Sharp.

MG Astor comes with a standard 3-3-3 package which includes warranty of three years/unlimited kilometres, three years of Roadside Assistance and three Labour-Free periodic services. With the unique MY MG Shield program, Astor customers also have the flexibility to choose and personalise their ownership package with Warranty Extension and Protect Plans.

The ownership cost of Astor is only 47 paise per kilometre, calculated up to one lakh kilometres. Astor also comes with the segment first 3-60 program, an assured buyback plan under which customers will get 60 percent of the Astor’s ex-showroom price on completion of three years of purchase. For the execution of program MG India has partnered with Cardekho and Astor customers can avail this separately.

Speaking on the launch, Rajeev Chaba, President and MD, MG Motor India, said, “Astor brings personality, practicality and technology in one compelling expression of future mobility based on established brand heritage. Enriched with features and packed with technologies never seen before in this segment, we believe that Astor will set a new benchmark in the segment. While the car has been positioned and priced attractively, My MG Shield offers customers complete peace of mind and aligns with our philosophy of creating exciting experiences every time”.

Styled as per MG’s global design philosophy of Emotional Dynamism, Astor has contemporary look that connects with consumers. Astor’s i-SMART technology comes with 80+ connected car features for Smart and Sharp variants. The ADAS with Autonomous level 2 features will be available as an optional pack in the 220 Turbo AT as well as in the VTI-tech CVT transmission for the Sharp variant.

Bookings will open on October 21, 2021 and deliveries will commence in November 2021.