Bentley Mulliner today announces the new Flying Spur Mulliner – the ultimate in four-door luxury Grand Touring and Mulliner’s first electrified Bentley. Whether enjoying the technically advanced V6 Hybrid powertrain, the emotional V8 or endless waves of torque from the W12, customers will still benefit from the exquisite detailing offered by the latest Mulliner product.

Revealed at the prestigious Monterey Car Week in California, the elegantly appointed sedan sits at the pinnacle of the Flying Spur family, combining the very finest in modern craftsmanship and breath-taking luxury.

The most luxurious Flying Spur to date has been created and developed by Bentley Mulliner and designed, engineered and handcrafted in Great Britain. Taking its place as the flagship of the Bentley range, the new Flying Spur Mulliner will appeal to customers who desire an even greater focus on elegant details.

Beautifully appointed detailing includes exclusive Mulliner 22-inch wheels, in a grey painted and polished finish, with self-levelling wheel caps that remain upright as the wheels rotate. A “Double Diamond” front grille and chrome front lower grille are matched by bespoke Mulliner branded wing vents and Satin Silver painted mirror caps. The iconic Bentley Flying B is electronically deployed and illuminated, while the Flying Spur Mulliner also features jewel fuel and oil caps.

Mulliner illuminated outer treadplates and deep-pile Mulliner overmats welcome passengers inside the ultimate Flying Spur cabin, which offers a Mulliner curation of eight custom-made, three-colour combinations. The sumptuously trimmed cockpit is complemented by accent colour piping and unique Mulliner embroidery to the hand-stitched seats.

An example of one of the curated interiors – Ascot – is a combination of Imperial Blue leather to the instrument panel, door trims and headlining while a light tan leather called Camel, emphasises the style of the seats. White micro-piping, embroidery and accent line combines a third colour into the unique Mulliner interior.

Further combinations such as Flare and Sirius add bolder combinations including Hotspur and Beluga, and Linen and Brunel both with a silver accent.

The Mulliner Driving Specification is fitted as standard, bringing the “Diamond-in-Diamond” quilting to the seats, and three-dimensional leather to the doors. Contrast seat piping matches the accent that surrounds the occupants from the centre console, around the instrument panel and finishes beneath the door waistrail, highlighting the Bentley B chrome inlays.

The luxurious Diamond-in-Diamond interior quilting involves an embroidery process that alone took 18 months to develop. Each diamond contains exactly 712 individual stitches – each one aligned to the exact centre of the diamond it creates.

Modern craftsmanship and breath-taking luxury combine in the diamond milled technical finish that is applied to the centre and rear consoles. The centrepiece feature on the dashboard alongside chrome bullseye vents is a stunning, brushed silver Mulliner clock.

The classic Bentley theme continues in the LED driver’s instrument panel, with stylish new and exclusive Mulliner graphics. The now famous Bentley Rotating Display, sports pedals, heated duo-tone 3-spoke steering wheel and panoramic sunroof further add to the luxurious ambience.

Unique Mulliner electrically-operated picnic tables are mounted to the rear of the front seats and can be deployed with a single press of a button. The veneered tables, which feature unique overlay, lower and self-level to reveal a leather-trimmed surface with a recess for a pen or stylus. Holding the button down returns the table gracefully to its home position.

Flying Spur Mulliner customers receive leather-bound keys in a unique, Mulliner-branded handcrafted presentation box, which matches the three-colour cabin configuration of their car. The two keys are provided in similarly colour-matched cases with contrast stitching.

The Flying Spur Mulliner is available with Bentley’s V8 and W12 powertrains, as well as the new V6 Hybrid. When equipped with Bentley’s 6.0-litre, twin-turbocharged W12, the Flying Spur Mulliner accelerates from 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds (0-100 kmph in 3.8 seconds) and is capable of a top speed of 207 mph (333 kmph). The new generation 4.0-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 delivers a top speed of 198 mph (318 kmph) and 0-60 mph in 4.0 seconds (0-100 kmph in 4.1 seconds). The new V6 Hybrid accelerates from 0-60 mph in 4.1 seconds (0-100 kmph in 4.3 seconds) with a top speed of 177 mph (285 kmph).

Bentley Mulliner
Bentley Mulliner is Bentley’s highly-acclaimed, bespoke commissioning division and the oldest coachbuilder in the world. Synonymous with luxury, the new Flying Spur Mulliner is just the third member of the newly-created Bentley Mulliner Collections family alongside the sublime Continental GT and Continental GT Convertible.

In the world of Mulliner, anything is possible. Established to respond to the requirements of Bentley’s most discerning customers, the bespoke division is renowned throughout the automotive world for crafting some of the most individual Bentleys ever created.

An experienced team, supported by in-house engineers and designers at Bentley headquarters in Crewe, prides itself on a long history of fulfilling the desires and demands of every Mulliner customer.

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., today took the wraps off the all-new XUV700 (pronounced as XUV, 7 double ‘Oh’), marking a brand-new era for the company. The XUV700 comes with impressive looks, classy interiors and commendable ride comfort. Bookings will begin before the festive season. The XUV700 will come in variants that include diesel and gasoline, manual and automatic options and with 5 and 7-Seater capacity. It will also be available in an optional All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) specification.

Speaking about Mahindra SUV focus and the unveil of XUV700, Dr. Anish Shah, MD & CEO, M&M Ltd. said, “It is sheer passion that drives our people to create advanced, adventure-ready vehicles, with an unmissable presence. We are ready to lead the core SUV segment with nine new exciting SUVs planned for launch by 2026. And our most ambitious addition, the XUV700, is throbbing and pulsating with technology, power and intelligence to let people explore the impossible.”

Rajesh Jejurikar, Executive Director, Auto & Farm Sectors, M&M Ltd, said, “Every once in a while, an automobile comes to change the future course of its manufacturer and in the process, it transforms the segment itself. The XUV700 marks the beginning of a whole new Mahindra and a new era and for the SUV segment in India. We have raised the bar on best-in-class features, technology and design. Our customers are in for a longstanding treat with the innovative new XUV700.”

Variant and features are as follows:

MX Series	AdrenoX  | AX3	AdrenoX | AX5	AdrenoX | AX7
•  20.32 cm (8“) Infotainment •  17.78 cm (7“) Cluster •  Android Auto •  Smart Door handles •  LED Taillamp •  Steering mounted Switches •  Power Adjust ORVM with Turn Indicator •  Day Night IRVM •  R17 Steel Wheels	Offered over MX •  Dual HD 26.03 cm (10.25“) Infotainment and 26.03 cm (10.25“) Digital Cluster •  Amazon Alexa Built-In •  Wireless Android Auto and Apple Car Play •  AdrenoX Connect with 60+ Connected features •  6 Speakers and Sound Staging •  LED DRL and Front fog Lamps •  R17 Steel Wheels with covers	Offered over AX3 •  Skyroof •  R17 Diamond Cut Alloy Wheels •  Curtain Airbags •  LED Clear-view Headlamps •  Sequential turn indicators •  Cornering lamps	Offered over AX5 •  Advanced Driver Assistance System •  Driver Drowsiness Alert •  Smart Clean Zone •  Dual Zone Climate Control •  R18 Diamond Cut Alloy •  Leatherette Seat •  Leather Steering & Gear lever •  6-Way Power seat with Memory •  Side Airbags

To mark the second anniversary of Hector, MG Motor India today added another variant to its line-up MG Hector Shine. Available in Petrol MT, Diesel MT, and Petrol CVT, the Hector Shine starts at Rs 14.51 lakhs (ex-showroom, New Delhi).

The new trim has an all-new electric sunroof, 17-inch alloy wheels and a 26.4cm HD touchscreen AVN System with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additionally, Shine CVT is equipped with an electric parking brake, push-button start/stop and smart entry, chrome door handles and telescopic steering.

Commenting on the new trim, Gaurav Gupta, Chief Commercial Officer, MG Motor India, said, “Hector’s second anniversary in India is a perfect occasion to further strengthen it’s portfolio. The addition of the Shine variant braces Hector family range which now comprises five variants and gives customers the power of choice. This is an opportunity to welcome new members to the MG family.”

Further, MG is also offering a curated accessories package including items of high aesthetic and functional value like leatherette seat covers and steering wheel cover, window sunshades, air purifier, wireless phone charging, and 3D cabin mats at an attractive price offering. The car will also be backed by MG Shield which is a 5-5-5 offering, including five years of unlimited-kilometre warranty, five years of roadside assistance and five labour-free services.

MG Motor India today introduced the new seven-seat version of the Gloster Savvy. An addition to the range of India’s first Autonomous (Level 1) Premium SUV, the new version of MG Gloster Savvy Trim will strengthen the Gloster range and provide customers with the power to choose from a broader range of MG’s top-end SUVs.

Priced at Rs 37.28 lakh (ex-showroom New Delhi), the new Gloster Savvy comes in a seven-seater (2+3+2) configuration. It features multiple driving modes enabled with the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) and a BorgWarner Transfer case aiding its off-roading abilities. It also has the i-SMART technology, 64-colour ambient lighting, three-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, driver seat massager, and several other exclusive features.

Speaking about the launch, Gaurav Gupta, Chief Commercial Officer, MG Motor India, said, “We are introducing the Gloster Savvy with a 7-seater configuration in response to requests from our customers. With this addition to the existing Gloster Savvy with 6-seater configuration, we are offering our customers the power to choose a vehicle as per their needs and preferences.”

Under the hood, the seven-seater MG Gloster Savvy, like its six-seat counterpart, features a 2.0 Twin Turbo Diesel Engine generating 200 PS power and 480 Nm of peak torque.

The premium SUV also comes with a unique, industry-first MY MG Shield ownership package, which has revolutionised and personalised the car ownership experience with flexible after-sales needs of customers. Besides providing customers with a choice to customise additional services and maintenance packages from 200+ options, MY MG Shield’s standard 3-3-3 package includes a warranty of three years/100,000 kilometers, three years of roadside assistance and three labour-free periodic services.

The Concours of Elegance – famed for gathering together the rarest cars ever created – will showcase some of the world’s most extraordinary Bentleys at Hampton Court Palace in this year’s ‘Main Concours’ display. Taking place from 3-5 September, the event is renowned as one of the top three concours d’elegance events in the world for the quality of cars it attracts.

Since it started manufacturing cars in 1919, Bentley has established itself as a pinnacle of both luxury and performance. Built upon the company’s racing pedigree – five victories at Le Mans in the 1920s, plus a sixth in 2003 – Bentley is known across the globe for creating cars with an unrivalled blend of speed and the finest craftsmanship and materials.

Among the earliest Bentleys on display is ‘YB 633’, a very original 1926 6 ½-litre Sports Tourer. The car is reputed to be the last 11 foot chassis with the original one-off aluminium body still on the car – a four-light drop head coupe with a dickey seat and wind-up windows, referred to as a “Simplex Coupe” by Coachbuilder H J Mulliner. In Bentley factory records the car is referred to as a “3/4 folding head coupe”. The car also features its originally installed engine.

Alongside it, is ‘YW 5758’ a 1928 Bentley 4 ½-litre Le Mans Team Car – the most decorated original-bodied car in existence – still featuring its original chassis number, engine number, body number and body. The car’s impeccable racing history includes second place in class at the 1928 Newtownards TT, fifth at the inaugural 1929 Irish International Grand Prix at Phoenix Park, and class winner and third overall, at the 1929 ‘Six Hour Race’ at Brooklands. The car also placed fourth at Le Mans in 1929. The car continued its successes into the 1930s, and is still used regularly at historic meetings today.

Also on display is another Bentley 4 ½-litre with a different kind of history. ‘GC 6002’ was originally delivered via Jack Olding & Co to a Mr Arthur Grout in 1930. Arthur was the landlord of The Southampton Arms which was at the centre of the ‘race track wars’ of the 1920s – recently made famous by the Netflix series ‘Peaky Blinders’. The car is a sports four seater by Vanden Plas with fully valanced wings finished in green. Unfortunately for Arthur, the car’s commanding looks would do nothing to ward off the creditors – his failure to keep up repayments meant the vehicle was returned to the factory in 1935, as denoted on the chassis record. The car has never been rebuilt, only maintained, and is in regular use today, having covered less than 100,000 miles in more than nine decades.

Also gracing the pathways of Hampton Court is an early example of a ‘blown’ Bentley – a 1931 Bentley 4 ½-litre supercharged. The addition of the supercharger was facilitated by then racing driver Tim Birkin who, in 1929, suddenly found himself hopelessly outclassed by the supercharged Mercedes cars that were running away on the straights. Birkin approached engineer, Charles Amherst Villiers, who had already made his name with Brescia Bugattis and the supercharged Villiers Vauxhall Special, and commissioned him to design a super-charger installation for the 4½-litre Bentley. Villiers also reworked the engine to cope with the strains imposed by the supercharger. The example on display at the Concours retains its original four-seater open sports body by Vanden Plas, and its original colour scheme of black with fine lining in red.

Rounding out the selection of 1930s Bentleys is ‘WD 4499’ which is a 1932 Bentley 8-litre, and the 64th of the 100 8-litre Bentleys built in 1930–31. The 8-litre was designed as a fast, powerful chassis capable of carrying heavy closed coachwork with sports car levels of performance. Indeed when the 8-litre was introduced at the 1930 Olympia Show it was the fastest production chassis in the world, capable of 103mph at 3,500rpm. This particular car is a long wheelbase model, with coachwork by H J Mulliner finished in black and green.

These are just some of the beautiful Bentleys that will be on display, with many more examples forming a line-up with the Bentley Drivers’ Club. This display is part of the additional content that makes up the near-1,000 cars on display during the Concours of Elegance, also including a collection of 95 British cars gathered to celebrate Her Majesty The Queen’s 95th birthday, and a 30UNDER30 Concours aimed at inspiring the next-generation of classic car enthusiast.

Special features for 2021 will also gather together a line-up of Future Classics, representing the potential concours d’elegance stars of the next 50 years, a celebration of 60 years of the Jaguar E-type and a Veteran Car Run display, gathering the pre-1905 motoring pioneers that each year make their pilgrimage from London to Brighton.

Away from the automotive displays, Concours of Elegance remains an occasion of pure luxury, with champagne provided by Charles Heidsieck, picnics by Fortnum & Mason, live stage interviews with Chubb Insurance, hosted by Jodie Kidd, and a collection of art, jewellery and fashion displays. Presenting Partner, A. Lange & Söhne, recently confirmed to support the event for a further three years, will continue to showcase some of its most intricate timepieces. New long-term partners joining the event in 2021 include The Peninsula London Hotel and Residences, Gooding & Co and McLaren.

BMW India has launched the BMW Individual 740Li M Sport Edition. BMW’s flagship model is presented in a new avatar with exclusive personalization, iconic M performance and handcrafted precision. Locally produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai, limited units of the Individual Edition can now be booked at shop.bmw.in.

Mr. Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “BMW Individual is now being locally produced in India at Plant Chennai for the first time. It represents bespoke personalization and gives a new dimension to the BMW 7 Series, an epitome of exclusivity and performance. This winning combination takes the story of contemporary luxury forward into the future by allowing customers to express their personality. The new BMW Individual 740Li M Sport Edition is an exclusive limited edition that achieves a peerless symbiosis of performance and individualization.”

Limited units of the BMW Individual 740Li M Sport Edition are available at INR 1,42,90,000.

The BMW Individual 740Li M Sport Edition is available in two exciting BMW Individual metallic colours – Tanzanite Blue and Dravit Grey with exclusive leather ‘Nappa’ with extended contents/stitching – Mocha and Black combination upholstery.

The Design Pure Excellence interior package sets brilliant accents that underline the contemporary, luxurious and aesthetic character with unique craftsmanship. M Sport exterior and powerful engine produce an adrenalin-rich combination to set the hearts of motorsport fans pounding.

The design of the BMW 7 Series is clearer, more modern and more emotional. Visually, the 7 makes a clear statement with an imposing presence, created by the distinctive front and rear design. The most striking feature is the BMW Individual special paint metallic finish in Tanzanite Blue and Dravit Grey. Adaptive LED headlights with BMW Laserlight technology enhance the commanding look. Dynamic character is emphasized by aerodynamically optimized bodywork elements of the M Sport package as standard. BMW Laserlight makes a striking impression and distributes light perfectly. An exclusive optional feature is the BMW Individual 20” light alloy wheels V-spoke style 628, painted in bicolour and 20” M light alloy wheels Star-spoke style 817 M.

Interior of the BMW Individual 740Li M Sport Edition offers unique and bespoke personalisation. Customizable embroidery on specially crafted BMW Individual Alcantara headrest and backrest cushions offer customers the chance to express their personality integrating harmoniously with the sophisticated polish of BMW Individual interior trim badging on the dashboard and centre console. The ‘BMW Individual’ emblem on the interior trims is a perfect fit with the design, signalling its special roots. The BMW Individual Alcantara headliner in Ivory White and Canberra Beige highlights the special quality that can be seen and felt. Interior trim offers a refined premium option with exclusive Nappa leather upholstery with extended contents and stitching. The new fine-wood trim with wooden inlays adds a touch to luxury to the roof handles clasp, rear seats belt clasp and rear-centre armrest cup holder and provides premium experience of the highest order. Generous levels of space, ambient lighting, ambient air package, Panoramic glass roof Sky Lounge with LED light graphics are few among the long list of features that create the perfect ambience. The Executive Lounge appointments maximize comfort with four-zone automatic climate control, electrically adjustable comfort seats, massage function and active seat ventilation. In addition to the above, the BMW Individual design composition includes the comfort access system, front and rear active seat ventilation, the front and rear seat heating, climate comfort laminated glass and windscreen, soft close function and welcome light carpet features as standard.

Thanks to the unrivalled BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, the petrol engine meld maximum power with exemplary efficiency and offer spontaneous responsiveness even at low engine speeds. The three-litre six-cylinder produces an output of 340 hp and a maximum torque of 450 Nm at 1,500 – 5,200 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 – 100 kmph in just 5.6 seconds.

BMW EfficientDynamics includes features such as 8-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission, Auto Start-Stop, ECO PRO mode, Brake-Energy Regeneration, Electronic Power Steering, 50:50 Weight Distribution, Driving Experience Control switch. Dynamic Damper Control improves ride quality and suspension by stabilizing all irregularities of the surface. The Adaptive 2-Axle Air Suspension enables raising and lowering of vehicle at the touch of button and automatically adjusts the height of the car to suit any given driving situation.

Rear-seat Entertainment Professional allows users to access the entertainment and navigation functions from the rear seats. It now comprises two 10.2 inch full-HD touch displays with a Blu-ray player. BMW Touch Command, the innovative system, offers a fully integrated control option for entertainment and comfort functions for the rear. The 7-inch tablet with touch function, which is integrated into the centre armrest and connected to the vehicle systems, can also be used outside the vehicle. Modern cockpit concept BMW Live Cockpit Professional with BMW Operating System 7.0 includes 3D Navigation. BMW Gesture Control that recognizes six pre-defined hand movements for control of several functions. The smartphone holder integrated into the centre console allows inductive, Wireless Charging for mobile phones. Wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto ensures seamless smartphone connection with the car to access several functions. Harman Kardon Surround Sound System conjures an engrossing treat for the ears. High-end 16 speaker system with woofers generates an impressive audio experience in all seats that is unique worldwide in the automotive sector.

New driver assistance systems and extended functions smooth the way to automated driving. The Lane Departure Warning component of the newly introduced BMW Driving Assistant now also has the lane return function. Range of state-of-the-art driver assistance systems includes Driving Assistant with Lane Change Warning, Rear Collision Warning and Crossing Traffic Warning. Parking Assistant Plus with Surround View Camera makes parking in tight spots easier by taking over acceleration, braking and steering. The Reversing Assistant provides unmatched support in reversing out of parking or through narrow driveways. It keeps a record of the last 50 metres driven and assists by taking over the steering. With the Remote-Control Parking function, a driver can manoeuvre the vehicle into a narrow parking space from outside using the BMW Display Key.

BMW safety technologies include six airbags, Attentiveness Assistance, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), 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.

MG ONE, based on the brand’s SIGMA architecture, is a combination of functional elegance and cutting-edge digital technology. It is the debut of the brand’s new architecture and design language, majorly fashionable and sporty.

The brand’s new architecture can compress the mechanical space of the automobile to the minimum, and develop an interior space efficiency of up to 70%. SIGMA also helps balance the exterior shape and interior space from the beginning, making the interior space layout more in line with ergonomics.

SIGMA is a fusion of machinery and intelligence, which transcends the differences between horsepower and the ability of the software. Based on the concept of new-age intelligence, the SIGMA architecture has expanded the limit of automotive platforms. Through the flexible combination of more than 100 kinds of modules, the architecture design can create a variety of body types such as hatch & notch, sports car, off-roader, SUV, etc., to meet the user’s diversified needs.

SIGMA provides a larger range of power and torque powertrains, a new generation of engines and more hybrid drive methods. It also empowers MG ONE with powerful chip technology, an active digital ecosystem, advanced electric architecture, and hard-core software technology.

Tata Motors today launched the all-new Tiago NRG. Adding yet another exciting product to its wide range of portfolio, this vehicle has been carefully crafted for those who live differently. Positioned as the ‘Urban Toughroader’, the Tiago NRG is not only enhanced aesthetically with an SUV inspired design giving it a muscular look but is also tuned further with a higher ground clearance to give a tough road performance for the go getters. With 4 star safety rating by GNCAP, this vehicle will be launched in four attractive colours – Foresta Green, Fire Red, Snow White, Cloudy Grey, and will be available in showrooms from today at a starting price of INR 6,57,400, ex-showroom Delhi.

Commenting on NRG’s distinctive design and capabilities, Mr. Rajan Amba, Vice-President, Sales, Marketing & Customer Care, PVBU, Tata Motors said, “We are excited to bring to you this awesome version of our much-loved hatchback, the Tata Tiago. Truly energetic just like its name, the NRG fits well with the growing trend of bringing to market more SUV like vehicles. It is not only strong on the exterior but is feature-loaded & stylish in the interior, and is an absolute pleasure to drive with enhanced abilities to take over rough terrains. Crowning the Tiago range, the NRG will continue to help us increase our brand presence. We are confident that our customers will appreciate the new Tiago NRG as much as its predecessor.”

Bentley has announced details of a new limited edition to celebrate the introduction of its latest model, the Flying Spur Hybrid. Taking inspiration from the EXP 100 GT concept car that defines Bentley’s view of luxury mobility in 2035, the Flying Spur Hybrid Odyssean Edition is the first step on a journey to introduce new sustainable materials as part of its Beyond100 strategy.

The Flying Spur Hybrid Odyssean Edition not only uses an advanced hybrid powertrain delivering a combined power of 536 bhp (544 PS) and 750 Nm (553 lb.ft) of torque, but also includes new, even more sustainable materials throughout the cabin, directly reflecting design details showcased in Bentley’s centenary concept car. The cabin features panels of beautifully crafted tweed made from 100% British wool, twisting a blend of tonal colours into a bespoke yarn to create a unique natural luxury textile especially for Bentley.

With a focus on sustainability, the open pore Koa veneer fascias and waistrails use 90% less lacquer than high-gloss veneers, and allow the natural surface texture and aesthetic of the wood to be enjoyed. Selected from only the very best, most figured stock available, open-pore veneer is painted with just three ultra-thin layers of lacquer, together totalling only 0.1 mm in thickness.

The centre console is finished in a sleek, minimalist Piano Linen veneer, while a dedicated three-colour leather scheme lends the whole interior new depth. Together with new materials, sustainable leather is used widely across the cabin, thanks to its long-term durability. Indeed, Bentley’s own 1955 S1 Flying Spur was referenced during the design process, as the car still retains its original, now-66-year-old leather interior which is still in immaculate condition.

Accents to the interior are in a soft, warm hide called Autumn, with customers able to choose from five specifications that utilise Beluga, Porpoise, Cricketball, Brunel or Burnt Oak leather in tandem with light, modern Linen hide. A unique Odyssean Edition treadplate becomes apparent when entering or exiting the car, and is matched with exterior D-pillar badging.

In common with the ombré finishes seen in the EXP 100 GT interior, an exclusive new embroidery style sees thread colours blend calmly into one another across the width of each seat, defining and accentuating the “lofted diamond” pattern unique to the Flying Spur – together creating a stunning effect employed here by Bentley for the first time.

Deep pile overmats feature contrast binding, and can be upgraded to lambswool rugs – increasing the wool content of the interior yet further.

To the exterior, painted Pale Brodgar accents on the 21” ten twin-spoke wheels and lower brightware (front and rear bumpers, headlight and tail light surrounds and lower body side chrome) result in a uniquely serene character. A curated exterior palette of six colours have been recommended to harmonise with the Pale Brodgar accents, but the full Bentley palette can be chosen from.

The Flying Spur Hybrid Odyssean Edition demonstrates that hybridisation does not compromise luxury or performance. With an unperceivable blend between the internal combustion engine and electric motor, refined serenity is on offer regardless of driving mode or style.

The new powertrain combines a 2.9-litre V6 petrol engine with an advanced electric motor. With high power reserves, superior torque and quick throttle response the latest hybrid model gives little away to the Flying Spur V8 in acceleration, passing 60 mph from a standstill in 4.1 seconds (0-100 kmph in 4.3 secs).

Delivering a total of 536 bhp (544 PS) and 750 Nm (553 lb.ft) of torque – an additional 95 bhp in comparison to the Bentayga Hybrid. The Flying Spur Odyssean has the capability to cover over 700 km when fully fuelled.

The new powertrain achieves a significant reduction in fuel consumption whilst still providing the authentic Bentley character of effortless, refined performance.

French carmaker Citroën forayed into the Indian market with the launch of the new C5 Aircross SUV in April this year. However, the ongoing pandemic which created havoc with the deadly fangs of its second wave had kept us at bay for quite a while. So finally, when we received a call from the auto manufacturer to spend a day with the C5 Aircross, we jumped at the opportunity at once.

A clear blue sky on a Sunday morning was reason enough for us to set sail for a drive around the City of Joy – Kolkata. A short drive from La Maison Citroën on Park Street brought us to our first stop of the day – the Calcutta High Court. The Neo-Gothic structure of the Calcutta High Court made for a perfect backdrop for the C5 Aircross to strike a pose. With a muscular profile and plenty of swag, the New Citroën C5 Aircross SUV looks bold, and yet elegantly contemporary in every detail.

A short hop from the Calcutta High Court is the Comptroller and Auditor General’s Building where the Citroën C5 Aircross took a quick breather in front of the beautiful edifice.

At the front of the C5 Aircross, there’s the unmistakable double chevron design and the powerful curved side panels which lends it an imposing presence, turning heads wherever it goes. The 360 degree glazed surfaces are highlighted by chromed ‘C’ motif. The rear lights feature four rectangular 3D LED modules, which emphasize the vehicle’s broad stance.

With four body colours and three bi- tone roof options, the new Citroën C5 Aircross SUV offers a myriad of options to match individual choice. The stylish alloy wheels add to the design. The three Bi-tone options are available on both Feel and Shine variants.

Time stands still as the past and future of mobility cross path on the thoroughfare of Kolkata.

The New Citroën C5 Aircross SUV is powered by a 2.0-litre diesel engine mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox which provides smooth shifts between gears, making it a real pleasure to drive. You can also change gears manually if you want to, using the steering wheel mounted paddles, shifting seamlessly between automatic and manual modes. The diesel pot displaces 1997 cc producing 177 PS of maximum power at 3750 rpm and 400 Nm of peak torque at 2000 rpm. The engine is responsive to throttle input delivering linear power across rev range. You can also choose from multiple drive modes to suit your driving preference and mood.

An SUV needs to take varied and difficult surfaces in its stride. The new Citroën C5 Aircross SUV does precisely that with Grip Control, which provides secure traction in all conditions. This ingenious system has five modes – Standard (ESC), Snow, All -Terrain (Mud, Damp Grass, etc.), Sand and Traction Control Off – that you can select instantly using a dial on the centre console.

For safety and control while travelling downhill there is the Hill Descent Assist feature, which minimises the risk of skidding or unwanted acceleration as you descend. It works both, in forward and reverse gears as well as in neutral.

The Citroën C5 Aircross SUV feels effortlessly at home in urban settings just as much it does in the rural surroundings.

Step inside the Citroën C5 Aircross SUV and you would be welcomed with a perfect blend of refined comfort and space. Settle in and you’ll quickly appreciate the high driving position, and great visibility. The horizontal lines of the dashboard subtly incorporate a range of useful technologies, such as the 8-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital cluster. Carefully selected colours and tactile materials such as Grey Grained leather and Graphite cloth add a touch of class. Gloss black details and chrome inserts emphasize the attention to detail.

Taking inspiration from contemporary furniture, the seats in the New Citroën C5 Aircross SUV provide lounge-like comfort on the move. With broad cushions and seat backs, they combine high density foam at the heart of each seat and a thick, textured foam at the surface. Perfect support and softness is assured, whether it’s the shortest of trips or the longest of journeys.

With three independent adjustable rear seats of the same width, the New Citroën C5 Aircross SUV provides the same level of comfort and space, wherever you are sitting without being biased. With multiple reclining positions and the ability to slide up to 150 mm, they are comfortably accommodating. The modular and flexible design offers fold-away rear seats that provide a perfectly flat floor for generous luggage-carrying capacity.

The New Citroën C5 Aircross SUV has a roomy 580L boot. Move the rear seats to their furthest forward position and you’ve got up to 720L , giving you the most generous boot in its class. With the modular rear seats folded away, there’s an amazing 1630L of boot space available.

Part of being truly comfortable when you’re travelling is having a perfect place for everything you need. The New Citroën C5 Aircross SUV has plenty of useful storage solutions. The large compartment under the central armrest has a section that can carry a 1.5L bottle, whilst the glove box and door pockets are roomy too. You’ll also appreciate the large storage area at the front of the centre console.

The Panoramic Glass Sunroof makes every journey special. Filling the interior with natural light, it really enhances the views enjoyed from the new Citroën C5 Aircross SUV. Powered by dual electric motors with an inbuilt auto-reverse safety function, it’s easy to use and also features a blind for adjusting brightness. The Panoramic Glass Sunroof comes as standard on the Shine variant.

From the very inception of their product campaign, Citroën has been aggressively highlighting the “flying carpet ride” quality offered by the C5 Aircross and we found out that its not without reason. Indeed the suspension set up of the Citroën C5 Aircross deserves accolades and well suited to tackle imperfections of the Indian roads which resulted in an impressive ride experience. When big bumps are encountered, the hydraulic cushions keep suspension movement controlled and progressive which effortlessly absorbs road imperfections so that you can enjoy a relaxing drive.

The C5 Aircross handles well and stays tightly gripped to the ground even at high speeds. Despite its tall boy design, there is negligible body roll even while cutting sharp corners. The steering feedback is good and the braking ability is confidence inspiring.

There is little doubt that the New Citroën C5 Aircross SUV is a well engineered and brilliantly packaged product. The C5 Aircross has a bold & imposing exterior design , spacious & classy interior, robust build quality, easy access and connectivity to your personal devices, boasts of a good driveability, impressive ride quality and safety features – it has everything that a modern day customer is looking for. The pricing certainly could have been more agressive, but then we shall park that debate for another day.

As the setting sun bid adieu for the day, we stood by the water body inside the picturesque Eco-Park with the C5 Aircross reflecting on the wonderful day spent behind its wheel.