Volvo Celebrates 70 Years Of The Seatbelt Saving Lives

Volvo was one of the first car manufacturers to introduce seatbelts to the European market when it fitted its 1956 Amazon prototype with a two-point cross-chest diagonal belt, which was made available as an option on production models shortly afterwards. Three years later it became the first brand in the world to fit three-point belts as standard. Setting the template for the modern safety belt that’s fitted to all cars today, it was created by Volvo design engineer Nils Bohlin and consisted of a lap belt and a diagonal belt anchored at a low attachment point beside the seat.

By 1959 the three-point safety belt was installed as standard in all Swedish market Volvo cars, and later in cars across the world as the patent was made available to all car makers free of charge. As a result, seatbelt availability quickly became widespread and their fitment as a legal requirement was accelerated, helping to save millions of lives across the world.

The engineering innovation from Volvo seatbelts 70 years ago still plays a vital role in the design and engineering of modern Volvo models, with the newly launched EX60 mid-size SUV featuring the world’s first multi-adaptive safety belt.

This state-of-the-art safety belt uses real-time data input from advanced interior and exterior sensors to customise protection, adapting to the situation and individual occupant, taking into account their height, weight, seating position and crash type. For example, a larger occupant in a serious crash will receive a higher belt load setting to help reduce the risk of head injury. While a smaller occupant in a milder crash will receive a lower belt load setting to reduce the risk of rib fractures. As Volvo gathers more insights, the car can improve its understanding of the occupants, new scenarios and response strategies – and thanks to over-the-air software updates, this can be applied to the car, so the technology will continuously improve over time.

Volvo has always been at the forefront of safety evolution and innovation, and they continue to make new developments on such vital features like the seatbelt. The latest multi-adaptive seatbelt in the new EX60 is a testament to our pioneering technology and approach to safety that is continued today.

Nissan X-Trail: 25 Years And Over 8 Million Units Sold

For 25 years, the Nissan X‑Trail has been one of Nissan’s most successful global SUVs. Launched in 2001 and later introduced in the United States as the Rogue, the model has evolved from a rugged, practical SUV to an electrified, technologically advanced crossover — without losing its core DNA of robustness and versatility.

The name reflects its purpose: “X” for extreme activities and “Trail” for capability on rough terrain. At launch, Nissan positioned X‑Trail as “a true SUV, combining sportiness with exceptional versatility.” The original press material highlighted how it offered an alternative to traditional off‑road 4x4s, with lower fuel consumption, better maneuverability, and a more accessible price point.

“With its simple, practical, and robust design, it strongly appealed to young families who enjoyed outdoor activities and to customers with active lifestyles” recalls Shinchiro Irie, Program Design Director.

Since spring 2001, the X‑Trail formula has remained consistent: functional design, everyday usability, and capability on any road.

“The X‑Trail must be a functional crossover that adapts to every stage of life. Its design never sacrifices functionality, and functionality never compromises design,” explains Satoru Tanaka, Chief Product Specialist.

Over four generations, the model has built a strong global footprint, achieving success across Africa, Oceania, Asia, and South America. From the 3rd generation onwards, it entered the US market under the name Rogue, where it became — and remains — Nissan’s best‑selling vehicle.

Today, the X‑Trail continues to build on this legacy with Nissan’s e‑POWER hybrid technology and the e‑4ORCE all‑wheel‑drive system, delivering smooth, efficient and confident performance in all conditions.

The X-Trail is sold in 95 countries and to date, Nissan has sold over 8 million units worldwide. In the UK, Nissan has registered more than 167,400 X-Trails since 2001.

Volkswagen Group Delivers Four Million All-Electric Vehicles

With the delivery of four million all-electric vehicles, the Volkswagen Group has reached another milestone in its successful electrification strategy. In 2025, the Group was one of the top five BEV manufacturers worldwide and was the clear BEV market leader in its home market of Europe with a market share of around 27 per cent. The Group’s first all-electric series production vehicle, the VW e-up!, was launched back in 2013, followed by the VW e-Golf in 2014. From 2019 on, a cross-brand product offensive based on the new Modular Electric Drive Matrix (MEB) drove significant volume growth. To date, around three million Group vehicles based on the MEB have been delivered, making it the Group’s leading electric platform.

With its product offensive across all brands over the past two years, the Volkswagen Group has comprehensively renewed its portfolio and launched around 60 new models. Around one-third of these have an all-electric drive. The Group brands currently offer their customers more than 30 all-electric vehicles in the passenger car segment alone, from compact cars to luxury SUVs. In addition, there are all-electric trucks and buses from the TRATON brands Scania, MAN, International, and Volkswagen Truck & Bus. This gives the Volkswagen Group one of the most comprehensive BEV portfolios in the automotive industry.

In the current year, the Group is consistently expanding its range and once again bringing more than 20 new models onto the road, around half of which are all-electric. These include pioneering new electric models in China and the Electric Urban Car Family in Europe, consisting of four all-electric vehicles in the entry-level segment.

Global BEV production network comprises more than 20 locations
The Volkswagen Group manufactures its all-electric vehicles in several European markets, in China, in the USA and in Brazil. At around 77 per cent, the majority of the four million BEVs were produced in the home market of Europe. There are 11 BEV production sites here, located in Emden, Zwickau, Hanover, Bratislava, Mlada Boleslav, Ingolstadt, Neckarsulm, Leipzig, Zuffenhausen, Munich and Södertälje. With Pamplona and Martorell, two further locations are in the starting blocks, where the models of the Electric Urban Car Family from the Brand Group Core will roll off the production line in future. Preparations for the start of BEV production are also underway at the Volkswagen brand’s main plant in Wolfsburg, as well as at the Bentley plant in Crewe, England.

One in five of the Group’s BEVs was built in China, the world’s largest electric vehicle market. There are four production sites there: Anting, Foshan, Hefei and Changchun. Around three per cent of the BEVs delivered to date were produced at the Chattanooga and Tulsa plants in the USA. In Brazil, production of all-electric commercial vehicles recently started at the Sao Paulo plant.

95 per cent of BEVs were delivered in the core markets of Europe, China and the US
The three core BEV markets also clearly dominate deliveries, accounting for around 95 per cent. More than two out of three all-electric vehicles were delivered to customers in Europe (68 per cent). As with production, China accounted for 20 per cent of deliveries. Around eight per cent of vehicles went to the USA. All other markets combined accounted for five per cent.

Clear brand focus in the volume segment
At around 72 per cent, the clear majority of BEVs were accounted for by the Brand Group Core, which serves the volume segment. With around two million vehicles, around half came from the Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand. This was followed by Škoda with 480,000 units, SEAT/CUPRA with 230,000 units, and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles with 140,000 units.

The Brand Group Progressive contributed around 22 per cent of all BEVs. This comprises 870,000 Audi models in the premium segment.

Around six per cent of all-electric vehicles were delivered in the Brand Group Sport Luxury. This amounted to 250,000 Porsche vehicles that the sports car brand handed over to its customers.

The Brand Group Trucks accounted for a total of around 0.3 per cent of BEV deliveries, corresponding to around 11,000 vehicles.

Compact class and SUV/crossover models most popular with customers
The most popular vehicle segment for BEVs was the compact class, accounting for around 70 per cent of deliveries. This includes vehicles the size of the VW ID.3 and ID.4 models, the Škoda Enyaq, the CUPRA Born, and the Audi Q4 e-tron.

In terms of body types, vehicles with an SUV or crossover silhouette were the most popular among buyers. More than half of all BEVs fell into this category.

The following list shows an overview of the 10 most popular BEVs from the Volkswagen Group, which together accounted for more than 80 per cent of deliveries to date (in thousand vehicles):

VW ID.4/ID.5901
VW ID.3628
Audi Q4 e-tron (incl. Sportback)387
Škoda Enyaq (incl. Coupé)352
Audi e-tron/Q8 e-tron (incl. Sportback)255
Porsche Taycan (incl. Turismo)177
CUPRA Born172
VW e-Golf152
VW ID. Buzz (incl. Cargo)132
VW ID.7 (incl. Tourer)132

Pre-Launch Bookings Open For The New MINI Cooper S Victory Edition

MINI India has opened pre-launch bookings for the new MINI Cooper S Victory Edition. This special edition is based on the MINI Cooper S JCW Pack and will be available in India in limited quantities.

Born from the legendary grit of the 1965 Monte Carlo Rally, the MINI Cooper S Victory Edition brings a historic racing soul to the modern Indian road. Designed for those who demand more than just a drive, this limited edition captures the essence of MINI’s competitive DNA, offering a unique opportunity to own a piece of motorsport history reimagined for the future.

In homage to the legendary motorsports colors of the 1960s, the new MINI Cooper S Victory Edition impresses in an exclusive Chili Red exterior paintwork, which is accentuated by a white trim stripe extending from bonnet to the roof and rear, enhancing the vehicle´s sportiness even further. As an exclusive trademark of the edition, a white “52” graphic adorns both sides of the vehicle – a reference to the number of the original car displayed from 1965.

Customers can contact their nearest authorised MINI dealership to book the new MINI Cooper S Victory Edition.

TVS Apache Releases ‘The Apache DNA’ Anthem

Turning the exhaust note into the beat of music, TVS Apache, today launched its first-ever official anthem — ‘The Apache DNA’, celebrating 20 years of the brand’s legacy. Bringing excitement to customers, especially the new generation in India and across the world, the anthem has been composed by one of India’s finest rapper and songwriter Brodha V. Launched in 6 languages – English, Hindi, Marathi, Tamil, Telugu & Kannada, the anthem marks a landmark cultural moment for an iconic racing and performance motorcycling brand like TVS Apache.

Music is a powerful motivator for motorcyclists, and TVS Apache channels that same energy through its performance-driven style. Embodying a fearless spirit, and racing DNA, TVS Apache has become synonymous with performance, technology, and innovation for over 6.5 million riders across 60+ countries. The anthem further amplifies this spirit, positioning itself as a bold expression of confidence and unmatched energy on and off the racetrack.

Commenting on the first-ever TVS Apache anthem, Mr. Vimal Sumbly, Business Head, Premium Segment, TVS Motor Company, said, “For 20 years, TVS Apache has been the living expression of our racing DNA, an attitude and legacy that has empowered 6.5 million riders globally. ‘The Apache DNA’ anthem is our tribute to every rider who embodies the philosophy of TVS Apache. As we continue to democratize racing-bred technology, we are also expanding TVS Apache’s presence into music and youth culture, creating deeper connections with the communities that live and breathe the brand every single day.”

The lyrics of ‘The Apache DNA’ reflect the core ethos of TVS Apache: speed, precision, and control. With the launch of the anthem, TVS Apache takes its racing DNA beyond motorcycles, strengthening its emotional connect with riders and expanding its presence across music genres and the community. As the brand continues to push the boundaries of performance motorcycling, it resonates a powerful expression of TVS Apache’s commitment to confidence, authenticity, and an unstoppable riding ethos that resonates with the next generation of riders.

Škoda To Introduce Striking New Dragon Skin Paint Colour After Online Vote

In the vote, which took place on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, Dragon Skin narrowly edged out Storm Blue and Tangerine Orange to be chosen as the brand’s newest colour. Dragon Skin will be added as an option alongside two other colours that were chosen in a poll conducted last year. Waterworld Green and Space Violet were voted as favourites by vRS fans in the 2025 poll, defeating Hot Chilli Red and Plum Blue in the process.

Dragon Skin will now be offered as an exclusive paint finish on both hatch and estate variants of the Octavia vRS, adding even more visual drama to the performance-focused model. Orders open from 4 March 2026, priced at £855. The addition of Dragon Skin paint reinforces the Octavia vRS’s long-standing blend of everyday usability, strong performance and distinctive styling, now with even greater opportunity for owners to stand out on the road.

In addition to being offered on the Octavia vRS from March 4, Dragon Skin will also be introduced as a paint option on a limited-run of 130 Octavia SportLine models later this year. These will also be offered with Škoda’s three most recently introduced exclusive paint finishes: Waterworld Green, Space Violet and Royal Green. More details regarding ordering and production of these models will be announced later this year.

Celebrating 30 years since its modern debut, the Škoda Octavia has become the model that reshaped Škoda Auto. When it arrived in 1996, it offered space, practicality and value that challenged established rivals, helping change public perception of Škoda from budget outsider to smart, dependable choice.

As the company’s line-up expanded and its reputation grew, the Octavia remained the backbone of the range, becoming a benchmark for value and practicality. Now in its fourth generation, the Octavia continues to evolve with advanced technology and ever more efficient drivetrains, along with the qualities that made it successful in the first place: sector-best practicality and sensible pricing. Three decades on, the Octavia stands as the model that transformed the brand’s fortunes and continues to carry its reputation forward.

Volvo Car India And ChargeZone® Launch Ultra-Fast EV Charging Station

Swedish luxury car brand, Volvo Car India and ChargeZone®, India’s largest EV charging network, has inaugurated an ultra-fast charging station on the Mumbai-Nashik Highway that features a 360kW star charge power unit with two dynamic load balancing dispensers. This station is located at Food Hills, Mumbai-Nashik Highway, Near Igatpuri. This marks a significant milestone in their collaboration to build a premium nationwide supercharging network.

This intelligent configuration enables optimal power distribution, reduced waiting times and faster real-world charging experience for Volvo customers and other EV users. Strategically positioned on one of Maharashtra’s busiest intercity routes, the charging station offers dedicated bays for Volvo EVs, seamless app-based access for navigation and payments, and an elevated customer experience designed for convenience and reliability.

Jyoti Malhotra, MD, Volvo Car India, spoke during the ribbon cutting ceremony organized at the charging station today, “As a legacy brand, Volvo Cars is committed to driving the transition towards sustainable mobility, and this partnership with ChargeZone® is a testament to that vision. Together, we are ensuring that our customers not only enjoy the luxury and performance of Volvo EVs but also have access to a dependable and hassle-free charging infrastructure. The new 360kW station on the Mumbai-Nashik highway is the first step in delivering a world-class charging experience across India.”

Present at the event and speaking on the occasion, Mr. Kartikey Hariyani, Founder & CEO, ChargeZone®, said, “The launch of our first co-branded 360 kW ultra-fast charging station with Volvo Car India represents an important milestone in building a premium, future ready charging network for the country. The Mumbai Nashik hub showcases our focus on high speed, technology enabled infrastructure supported by intelligent features such as dynamic power loading that significantly improve the customer experience. As EV adoption accelerates, our priority is to ensure that long-distance travel becomes fast, predictable and seamless. We look forward to supporting India’s shift toward a cleaner and more sustainable mobility landscape.”

This installation follows the Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2025 between ChargeZone® and Volvo Car India to expand access to high-speed EV charging across key national corridors, and the plan is to get a few more charging stations added in 2026. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to improving long distance EV travel, strengthening charging availability, and advancing India’s transition to sustainable mobility, while encouraging the adoption of luxury and performance EVs across the country.

Nissan Gravite Launched In India

Nissan Motor India has announced the launch of the All-New Nissan Gravite at an attractive introductory price of INR 5.65 lakhs. A bold and game-changing 7-seater MPV, the Gravite marks the beginning of a new chapter in Nissan’s India journey.

The Gravite is the first product to roll out under Nissan Motor India’s renewed product offensive — underlining the company’s strengthened commitment and presence in India.

The name “Gravite” draws inspiration from 1.4 billion Indians and the 19,000 vernaculars and rituals that shape the nation’s diversity; the Gravite has been purpose-built to meet the evolving aspirations of Indian families. It combines space, versatility, comfort, and everyday practicality with a commanding road presence.

Thierry Sabbagh, Divisional Vice President and President, Middle East, KSA, CIS and India – Nissan and Infiniti, said, “India is central to Nissan’s global ambitions. Our actions over the past year strengthening operations, expanding the network and embarking on a product offensive demonstrate our long-term commitment to this market. The All-New Nissan GRAVITE is not just a product launch; it marks the beginning of a sustained growth phase for Nissan in India. With local manufacturing at our alliance partner facility in Chennai and a future-ready product roadmap, we are here to compete, grow and lead in the segments that matter.”

Saurabh Vatsa, Managing Director, Nissan Motor India, said: “The All-New Nissan GRAVITE is inspired by the diversity, scale, and ambition of Indian families. Every detail from its modular seating to its commanding stance reflects how Indian customers live, travel and grow together. For us, GRAVITE is more than a product introduction. It is a promise that Nissan will continue to design, manufacture and invest in vehicles that truly resonate with India’s mobility aspirations.”

The All-New Nissan Gravite establishes a distinct and confident identity aligned with Nissan’s global design language. Its elevated proportions, muscular body lines, pronounced wheel arches and high ground clearance create a commanding road presence suited to diverse Indian driving conditions.

The Gravite is the only vehicle in its segment to feature distinctive hood branding along with unique rear-door badging — a bold design expression that reinforces exclusivity and strong visual recall.

Central to its identity is Nissan’s signature C-shaped design integration at the front and rear, ensuring instant brand recognition while delivering a premium, contemporary character.

The Nissan Gravite redefines family mobility with exceptional cabin roominess and pioneering modularity. Designed to seamlessly adapt to daily commutes and long journeys alike, it delivers intuitive comfort across all three rows.

Premium suede and leatherette quilted seats enhance seating comfort, while generous shoulder and elbow room in the first row and ample headroom and knee room in the second and third rows ensure relaxed seating for all occupants.

Safety remains a core pillar of the Gravite’s value proposition, with 30+ standard safety features designed to deliver peace of mind for families.

The All-New Nissan Gravite is powered by an efficient and refined petrol engine, thoughtfully calibrated to meet the everyday mobility needs of Indian families. It is tuned to deliver smooth acceleration, comfortable cruising and predictable performance across city and highway conditions. The combination delivers a driving experience that prioritises reliability, ease of use and everyday usability – aligning with needs of modern Indian families without compromising on fuel economy and refinement.

The All-New Gravite as the second critical model in Nissan’s rejuvenated portfolio represents a decisive step in the brand’s product renaissance in India. Building on the momentum of the New Nissan Magnite – which is exported from India to markets and locally supported by an expanding dealer network across network cities, the Gravite establishes a strong foundation for sustained growth.

With the upcoming Tekton C-SUV in mid-2026 and a 7-seater C-SUV in early 2027, Nissan’s future-ready roadmap signals a confident multi-segment offensive in the Indian market.

The All-New Nissan GRAVITE is launched at an attractive introductory price of INR 5.65 Lakhs.

VariantEX Showroom (INR, Lakhs)
VISIA5,65,000
ACENTA6,59,000
N-CONNECTA7,20,000
TEKNA7,91,000
N-CONNECTA AMT7,80,000
TEKNA AMT8,49,000

The All-New BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro Launched In India

The all-new BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro was launched in India at an ex-showroom price of INR 74,50,000. Locally produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai, this new petrol variant of the BMW X3 can be booked at all BMW dealerships across the country from today onwards.

The all-new X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro further bolsters the X3 portfolio in India, joining the existing xDrive 20 petrol and xDrive 20d diesel variants to offer a comprehensive range of performance-led choices for customers.

Mr. Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India said, “The BMW X3 has always been the definitive choice for those who seek a perfect blend of luxury and versatility. With introduction of the new BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro, we are taking that legacy to an enhanced level of performance and presence. Power attracts power, and the new X3 30 delivers exactly that pairing a more aggressive engine with refined luxury to create a truly spirited driving experience. With this new addition, we have further expanded the X3 offering in India to cater to our modern, performance-driven customers who demand more.”

The design language of the all-new BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro gives the car a monolithic overall appearance. The exterior design is characterised by expansive surfaces and precise contours. It’s dimensions – length: 4,755 mm and wheelbase: 2,865 mm – make it the longest car in its segment. With a width of 1,920 mm and a height of 1,660 mm, the all-new X3 is also the widest and tallest car in its segment. The front end exudes great presence courtesy of its upright stature and, most notably, the large fully black BMW kidney grille with iconic glow illumination. The best-in-class adaptive LED headlights with high beam assistant and cornering lights result in peak performance and safety in low-visibility conditions. The adaptive LED lights are based on a projector lamp setup, offering much better performance than the traditionally used reflector lights. The headlights are complimented by the M lights shadow line which adds a sporty black tint making for an imposing front fascia. The M aerodynamic package with larger air intakes in the front apron guarantee an elegantly sporty appearance. Completing the exterior’s dynamic look are the standard 20-inch M alloy wheels, along with larger M Sport brakes in red with improved braking performance that create a powerful visual statement even at a standstill.

The car’s sporty silhouette features an elongated bonnet and a long wheelbase as well as a rising window graphic and a signature Hofmeister kink. The roof rails and the integrated roof spoiler in high gloss black underscore the vehicles’ athletic and adventurous character. The large wheel arches have a subtly squared-off outline in typical BMW X model style. The all-new BMW X3 30 also comes with flush-fitting door handles. The familiar BMW X proportions acquire a sporting flavour thanks to the long roofline extending deep into the rear end. The darkened split rear lights have a double L-shape lend a more assertive and modern presence to the vehicle. The rear diffuser in high gloss black enhances the bold appearance when seen from behind.

An expressive design and high-quality materials characterise the interior of the all-new BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro. The highly minimalist design lends the interior a particularly clean and modern look. The progressive and sophisticated ambience inside goes hand in hand with generous amounts of space and modern versatility for everyday use, leisure activities and trips away. The interpretation of the familiar BMW X cockpit design is shaped by the driver-oriented BMW curved display and the striking geometry of surfaces and innovative design features. The fully digital screen grouping is composed of a 12.3-inch information display and a 14.9-inch control display. The new instrument panel, elegantly wrapped in sensatec, brings a refined, high-quality finish to the cabin of the all-new BMW X3 30, enhancing the interior’s premium ambiance. Other design features include the standard BMW interaction bar integrated below the control display with control panels for the airflow and for switching on hazard warning lights, as well as the light elements in a contrasting colour that can be found in the centre console and in the front section of the door trim in both the front and rear. These form the basis for a dramatic lighting effect that further accentuates the three-dimensional character of the cockpit design. The lighting concept is further refined by the integral jewelry box located ahead of the gear selector, which uses ambient accents to spotlight stored items and reinforce the cabin’s premium feel. The all-new X3 30 also comes with a fully customizable head-up display as standard.

The M steering wheel comes with flatbottomed rims as well as control buttons providing haptic feedback. Standard shift paddles are available for manual interventions in the eight-speed steptronic transmission’s gear selection process. The sports seats come with active seat ventilation for front passengers. They also offer lumbar adjustment and backrest width adjustment for the driver, a feature unique to BMW X3. The sport seats are lapped in vegan leather ‘Veganza’ made with sustainable materials. The largest-in-segment panoramic glass sunroof gives an exceptionally elegant appearance and creates a light and airy feel inside the cabin. Travel & Comfort System, offered as standard, enables users to connect their devices to the car for a seamless entertainment experience. Rear windows also get roller sunblinds for extra privacy and protection from direct sunlight. The Harman Kardon surround sound system with 15 speakers and 750 watts of audio power provides an intense musical feast for the ears.

Thanks to BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, the X3 30 xDrive’s engine melds maximum power with exemplary efficiency and offer spontaneous responsiveness even at low engine speeds. The 2-litre 4-cylinder in-line petrol engine produces an output of 258 hp and maximum torque of 400 Nm at 1,600 – 4,600 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 kmph in just 6.3 seconds. Customers also get the sport boost function for exceptionally rapid bursts of speed as well as the sport plus mode for most dynamic handling characteristics. The all-new X3 30 xDrive comes with a 48V technology as standard which significantly improves performance as well as efficiency. The 48V technology results in remarkably instantaneous response to the slightest movement of the accelerator – when pulling away and also when putting in a sudden burst of speed – as well as more comfortable operation of the automatic start / stop function.

Adaptive suspension with electronically controlled dampers is also offered as standard. It automatically adjusts damper response to the prevailing driving situation and current driving style, with a choice of two settings depending on the my mode selected. This means sport mode activates optimal damper responses for dynamic handling, creating a noticeable contrast to the more comfort-oriented damper setting in the other my modes. Adaptive suspension combines excellent handling with supreme driving safety and allows the vehicle to be effortlessly controlled up to the limit. This has the effect of maximising not just the comfort and agility of the vehicle, but also its handling precision.

The all-new BMW X3 comes with the latest version of BMW iDrive with QuickSelect to provide intuitive, easy control. Its home screen shows vertically arranged function icons on the same level. The QuickSelect feature allows functions to be activated directly without having to enter a submenu. The new BMW iDrive is geared squarely to touch and voice control. It is based on the latest BMW Operating System 9, which also paves the way for a customisable selection of additional digital services. The all-new BMW X3 offers the best and latest of BMW ConnectedDrive services with BMW Digital Premium.

MyBMW App functions include popular options for keeping an eye on the current vehicle status at all times. The innovative BMW digital key plus services turn any smartphone into a car key and can be transferred up to 18 additional users, along with their personal vehicle settings. One can remotely lock / unlock and configure top speed, engine power, audio and more. Wireless Apple CarPlay® / Android Auto for smartphone opens up access to a range of functions and apps. In addition, customers can use the MyBMW app to generate BMW digital key plus, which turns a smartphone into a digital vehicle key. It will enable customers to physically open the doors when unlocking them this way.

The spread of BMW Connected Drive and Driver Assistance Systems that support comfort and safety are more extensive than ever. The all-new BMW X3 now comes with Driving Assistant Plus as standard which includes some best-in-class features like Active Cruise Control (with Stop&Go Function), Lane Departure Warning, Lane keep assistant and much more. Parking Assistant Plus offers the highest degree of technology and accessibility to smart parking systems in the segment with features such as fully automated parking with surround view camera and segment first features such as BMW Reversing Assistant and BMW Drive Recorder.

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 and many other innovative technologies.

BMW xDrive, the intelligent all-wheel drive technology, monitors the driving situation and is quick to respond to ensure maximum traction, agility and vehicle stability. Electronically controlled ‘Automatic Differential Brakes/Locks’ (ADB-X), extended ‘Dynamic Traction Control’ (DTC), Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control help to conquer every terrain.

BMW Safety includes eight airbags, Attentiveness Assistance, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including Cornering Brake Control (CBC), electric parking brake with auto hold, side-impact protection, electronic vehicle immobilizer with crash sensor and child seat mounting.

Goodwood Revival To Celebrate Maserati’s Racing Centenary

The Goodwood Revival (18-20 September) will mark the centenary of Maserati’s first major triumph at the Targa Florio, with an exceptional collection of cars.

No marque in history has embraced the highs and lows of motorsport more enigmatically than Maserati. From beautiful cars and legendary drivers to glorious victories – and occasional setbacks – Maserati has always chased success with unmistakable, charismatic Italian flair.

Maserati’s ascent began in 1926, when Alfieri Maserati drove the pioneering Tipo 26 to a class win at the Targa Florio. It was the first of many triumphs, laying the foundation for decades of achievements across multiple motorsport disciplines.

At this year’s Revival, that legacy will be celebrated in true Italian style. From the cars on track to chic mid-century fashion, the event will embrace La Dolce Vita. Paddocks will be transformed to evoke the dusty, sun-soaked roads of post-war Sicily and the golden era of the Targa Florio, immersing visitors in the romance and spirit of Italy.

Across the weekend, more than 50 pre-’66 Maseratis will take to the track, each reflecting a defining moment in the marque’s storied racing history. Visitors can expect the largest gathering of Maserati 250Fs, alongside notable models including the likes of the 150S, 200Si, 300S, 350S, 450S, 4CL, 4CM, 8C, 8CM, A6GCS, Tipo 151, Tipo 63, V4 and V8RI, amongst many others.