Nissan has announced that it is studying the feasibility of two of its most popular global models for the dynamic Indian market.

Confirming that testing has begun on the X-Trail and Qashqai, while at the same time showcasing the Juke, Nissan aims to assess their suitability for the rapidly evolving Indian consumer base.

Focusing specifically on their adaptability to Indian roads and differing terrains, the tests will assess each vehicle’s ability to meet customers’ needs. Starting this month, the vehicles are being put through their paces by Nissan’s top engineers on the roads that surround the company’s manufacturing plant in Chennai.

“The Indian market has boundless potential, and it is critical that we introduce the best vehicle line-up to align with what modern Indian consumers want and need,” said Frank Torres, President, Nissan India. “Following the success of the Nissan Magnite in India, we plan to strengthen our focus and leverage our expertise on high-quality SUVs that have become synonymous with our reputation.”

Over the coming weeks, Nissan will be identifying the feasibility of models from its global portfolio for the future potential vehicle line-up in India. Once testing is complete, the X-Trail will be introduced for sale first, followed by other models.

These vehicle assessments are part of a holistic study that Nissan is undertaking to prepare for its future in India. The wide-ranging review also includes securing future localised production for the long-term viability of domestic and export manufacturing, as well as exploring the potential for electrification in the longer term.

“The success of Nissan Magnite has shown what’s possible for the Indian market when you combine an excellent product with manufacturing competitiveness, supported by strong government partnerships. We look forward to strengthening Nissan’s presence in India and delivering further innovation and excitement for our Indian customers,” said Torres.

In 1900, Rolls-Royce co-founder, Charles Rolls, prophesised an electric future for the motor car. Having acquired an electric vehicle named The Columbia Electric Carriage, he foresaw its suitability as a clean, noiseless alternative to the internal combustion engine – providing there was sufficient infrastructure to support it. Today, more than 120 years later, the time has come for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars to fulfill the prophecy of its founding father.

This prophecy could not have been fulfilled without a more recent promise, when Rolls-Royce CEO, Torsten Müller-Ötvös, made a public commitment to electrification by announcing that he would bring a fully-electric Rolls-Royce to market within the current decade. Charles Rolls’ prophecy and Torsten Müller-Ötvös’ promise led to an historic moment. In September 2021, the marque confirmed that it had commenced testing of Spectre, the first Rolls-Royce to be conceived and engineered from the very beginning as an electric car.

To ensure that this transformative motor car was sufficiently prepared for the most demanding consumer in the world – the Rolls-Royce client – the marque devised the most exhaustive testing programme it had ever conceived. Spectre is being subjected to a journey of more than 2.5 million kilometres, simulating more than 400 years of use for a Rolls-Royce. On its completion in 2023, Spectre will represent a prophecy fulfilled, a promise kept and an undertaking completed.

Spectre is not only an historic moment for Rolls-Royce, but also an historic moment for electrification – with Spectre, the marque confirms that the technology has reached a standard that can contain the Rolls-Royce experience. To that end, Rolls-Royce has confirmed that by the end of 2030 its entire product portfolio will be fully-electric.

Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, said: “Spectre possesses all the qualities that have secured the Rolls-Royce legend. This incredible motor car, conceived from the very beginning as our first fully-electric model, is silent, powerful and demonstrates how perfectly Rolls-Royce is suited to electrification. Spectre’s all-electric powertrain will assure the marque’s sustained success and relevance while dramatically increasing the definition of each characteristic that makes a Rolls-Royce a Rolls-Royce.

“At Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, perfection is about more than making the very best products. It is a culture, an attitude and our guiding philosophy. Indeed, it is our founding father Sir Henry Royce who said, ‘strive for perfection in everything you do’. Spectre has been conceived within this culture. It is perfectly in tune with the sensibilities of our time. It states the direction for the future of our marque and perfectly answers a call from the most discerning individuals in the world to elevate the electric motor car experience, because Spectre is a Rolls-Royce first and an electric car second.

“This is the start of a bold new chapter for our marque, our extraordinary clients and the luxury industry. For this reason, I believe Spectre is the most perfect product that Rolls-Royce has ever produced.”

The Future Begins
Spectre is more than a motor car. It is a statement of intent and a symbol of a bright, bold future as Rolls-Royce progresses into an all-electric era. This commitment to an all-electric powertrain will only enhance the Rolls-Royce experience – instant torque, silent running and the sense of one imperceptible gear have defined the characteristics of an extraordinary canon of products dating back to the very first Rolls-Royce, the 1904 10 H.P.

With Spectre, Rolls-Royce has harnessed a revolutionary ‘Decentralised Intelligence’ system that allows for the free and direct exchange of information between more than 1,000 vehicle functions, further elevating the marque’s celebrated quality of ride. Its designers have captured a contemporary yet timeless aesthetic that significantly progresses the brand’s iconography as it embarks on its electric age. Its craftspeople have created a suite of contemporary prêt-à-porter personalisation possibilities, including Starlight Doors and Illuminated Fascia, inspiring clients to realise their own Bespoke visions.

Design
In unveiling Spectre, Rolls-Royce sets a new precedent in the creation of an entirely original class of motor car: the Ultra-Luxury Electric Super Coupé. This designation refers to Spectre’s indulgent proportions, specified in response to a commitment that there is no greater luxury than that of space.

The marque’s designers are deeply rooted in the context occupied by their motor cars. Therefore, their inspiration is drawn from worlds far beyond automotive, including haute couture, modernist sculpture, nautical design, tailoring and contemporary art. In conceiving the principal sketches for Spectre, the marque’s creatives were drawn to modern yacht concepts, specifically the clarity and precision of line, intelligent use of reflection and application of taper to emotionalise silhouettes.

From the front, Spectre’s split headlight treatment is intersected by the widest grille ever bestowed on a Rolls-Royce. The vanes of the Pantheon grille are now smoother in section and a flusher fit, designed to help guide the air around the motor car’s front.

The relaxed angle and polished stainless steel finish of the grille does much to enhance Spectre’s presence using environmental reflection. Along with an aero-tuned Spirit of Ecstasy figurine – itself the product of 830 combined hours of design modelling and wind tunnel testing – the grille enhances the motor car’s unprecedented drag coefficient, which at just 0.25cd makes Spectre Rolls-Royce’s most aerodynamic motor car, ever.

This intelligent treatment has been married to the iconography of Spectre’s spiritual predecessor, the Phantom Coupé. Spectre clearly acknowledges its forebear with its generous proportions and split headlight treatment – a contemporary Rolls-Royce design tenet. Spectre’s sharp daylight running lights emphasise the motor car’s imperious two-metre width and are offset with lower lamp clusters that appear darkened, at first glance, but hide jewellery box-like darkened chromium housings for the headlights. To affirm Spectre’s expression after dark, the grille is softly illuminated, with 22 LEDs lighting up the sandblasted rear side of each of the vanes, their gentle glow reflected in the polished front surfaces for a subtle and three-dimensional night signature.

In profile, the sharp, vertical bow line at the front of Spectre draws the eye rearward to its monolithic flanks. The lower line – known as the ‘waft line’ – borrows directly from yacht design. Instead of exaggerating movement with busy detailing or appliqués, Spectre’s coachwork gently tucks into the sill, lightening the surfacing and creating an uncomplicated sense of motion by reflecting the road passing beneath it, much as the hull of a racing yacht reflects the ocean as it cuts through water. This ‘waft line’ is the visual representation of the ‘magic carpet ride’ and its upwards sweep toward the front is inspired by the gently lifting bow of an accelerating power boat.

The silhouette’s most dramatic feature is Spectre’s fastback, which recalls the most evocative motor cars and watercraft in history. The seamlessness of the greenhouse surfacing significantly contributes to achieving the lowest drag coefficient ever for a Rolls-Royce. Following the roofline back, the tail lamps are set into the largest single body panel ever produced for a Rolls-Royce, which extends from the A-pillar to the luggage compartment. The jewel-like vertical tail lamps themselves are colourless for neutrality, in anticipation of the myriad of colourways selected by clients during the commissioning process. Their precision and reduced dimension complement the generous flow of the bodywork from the muscular shoulders backwards into the tail section with its characteristic tapering plan view.

The proportional demands of Spectre’s scale required Rolls-Royce to embolden its wheel strategy. Spectre is the first production two-door coupé to be equipped with 23-inch wheels in almost one hundred years.

Inside, Spectre is provisioned with the most technologically advanced Bespoke features yet, drawing inspiration from the timeless mystique of the night’s sky. For the first time on a series production Rolls-Royce, Spectre is available with Starlight Doors, which incorporate 4,796 softly illuminated ‘stars’. The coach doors can also be commissioned with a backdrop of wood Canadel Panelling, which takes its name from the cove in the South of France where Sir Henry Royce and his design team spent their winters.

The ethereal night-time theme continues with Spectre’s Illuminated Fascia. Developed over the course of two years and more than 10,000 collective hours, it incorporates the Spectre nameplate surrounded by a cluster of over 5,500 stars. Located on the passenger side of the dashboard, the illuminations are completely invisible when the motor car is not in operation.

Alongside the extraordinary, illuminated surfaces, Spectre is equipped with a completely redesigned digital architecture of luxury named SPIRIT, presented in quintessential Rolls-Royce style. Not only will SPIRIT manage the motor car’s functions, but it is seamlessly integrated into the marque’s Whispers application, allowing clients to interact with their car remotely, and receive live information curated by the marque’s luxury intelligence specialists.

For the first time ever, clients are now able to extend their Bespoke commission beyond the physical world and into the digital architecture that underpins SPIRIT. Inspired by the marque’s clients’ love of bespoke timepieces, the colour of the dials can now complement the interior hue of the motor car.

As with all Rolls-Royce motor cars, Spectre’s interior suite offers clients near-infinite Bespoke possibilities. The all-new front seat design has been inspired by British tailoring, with lapel sections that can be rendered in contrasting or matching colours to the main base. Bespoke stitching, embroidery and intricate piping has, as ever, been considered in their inception.

All-Aluminium Architecture Of Luxury
2003 saw the first Goodwood-era Phantom, built upon its own Bespoke architecture. This renaissance of the brand was Rolls-Royce 1.0. Following this, the ‘Architecture of Luxury’ was conceived – a new, highly flexible all-aluminium spaceframe architecture, and visionary feat of engineering, that could be tailored for electric drive, as well as today’s Phantom, Cullinan and Ghost models, and Coachbuild projects. This expansion of the marque’s offering was Rolls-Royce 2.0. The ability to tailor the Architecture of Luxury for electric drive was a fundamental consideration when it was first conceived. However, it is only now that electric drive technology is advanced enough to fulfill the Rolls-Royce experience. The introduction of a fully-electric powertrain and Decentralised Intelligence into the marque’s portfolio represents Rolls-Royce 3.0 and the beginning of the bold new all-electric era.

By ensuring from the outset that the Architecture of Luxury could be tailored to the requirements of an all-electric Rolls-Royce, the marque’s engineers ensured the continuity of experience from its current portfolio, each evolution of which has done much to secure the brand’s ongoing global success. Indeed, the inherent flexibility of the architecture and ease of integration of an electric powertrain has freed engineers, designers and craftspeople to focus on the quality of experience, authenticity of design and innovation in Bespoke.

For Spectre, Rolls-Royce engineers have unlocked further benefits. The sophisticated extruded aluminium sections and integration of the battery into the structure of the motor car enable it to be 30 per cent stiffer than any previous Rolls-Royce. The flexibility of the architecture has also allowed engineers to place the floor halfway between the sill structures rather than on top or underneath them. A channel has been created for wiring and climate control pipework between the battery and the floor, with the battery mounted underneath, providing a perfectly smooth underfloor profile. This not only creates a low seating position and enveloping cabin but realises a secondary function for the battery – almost 700kg of sound deadening.

Digital Engineering
For Spectre, Rolls-Royce’s engineers have seen much of their discipline pivot from the workshop to the digital space. Spectre is the most connected Rolls-Royce in history, and in harnessing the power of the motor car’s remarkable Decentralised Intelligence processing capabilities there is more requirement than ever for expert human experience.

To ensure the continuity of the Rolls-Royce experience, as well as its progression, the marque selected the most experienced test and development engineers to lead the project, some of whom have been with the marque for more than two decades and were responsible for creating the first ‘Goodwood-era’ Phantom. These engineers describe the experience offered by Spectre as akin to “Rolls-Royce in high definition” on account of the speed and accuracy of the motor car’s response to a worldwide spread of road and weather conditions.

For this to be realised, a dedicated control has been handmade for each of the 141,200 sender-receiver variables, and in nearly all cases engineers have designed several more sub-variables for variations in climate, ground speed, road type, vehicle status and driving style. These have been crafted over the course of Spectre’s 2.5 million kilometre testing programme both on advanced proving grounds and on real roads around the world.

Planar Suspension
In testing Spectre, the process includes extreme driving conditions – development of the motor car began just 55km from the arctic circle in Arjeplog, Sweden, at temperatures as low as -40 degrees centigrade, and it will continue across Southern Africa, in temperatures of up to 55 degrees centigrade. Yet, 55 per cent of testing is taking place on the very roads that many production Spectres will be driven on. Of particular significance was the French Riviera. It was on the Côte d’Azur that Spectre’s digitally integrated evolution of the renowned Planar suspension system was finalised.

Planar suspension is an orchestra of systems with precisely defined responses to driver inputs and road conditions, made possible by the latest software and hardware developments, delivering Rolls-Royce’s hallmark ‘magic carpet ride’.

Using a suite of new hardware components and leveraging Spectre’s high-speed processing capabilities, the Planar system can decouple the car’s anti-roll bars allowing each wheel to act independently, preventing the rocking motion that occurs when one side of a vehicle hits an undulation in the road. This also reduces high-frequency ride imperfections caused by shortcomings in road surface quality.

Once a corner is identified as imminent, the Planar system recouples the components and stiffens the dampers, the four-wheel steering system is then prepared for activation to ensure effortless entry and exit. Under cornering, 18 sensors are monitored, and steering, braking, power delivery and suspension parameters are adjusted so that Spectre remains stable. The result is effortless control.

Power, Range And Dimensions
The final power, acceleration and range figures are still being refined, as the extraordinary undertaking of finessing Spectre enters its final phase before concluding in the second quarter of 2023. Preliminary data shows that Spectre is expected to have an all-electric range of 320 miles/520 kilometres WLTP and offer 900Nm of torque from its 430kW powertrain. It is anticipated to achieve 0-60mph in 4.4 seconds (0-100kmph in 4.5 seconds).

At the Paris Motor Show, the Jeep brand provided an extra thrill and surprise for its global audience by revealing the Jeep Avenger 4×4 Concept.

Announcing the 4×4 Concept at the finale of the Jeep brand press conference, Christian Meunier, Jeep brand CEO, said: “The Avenger has been designed as a Jeep vehicle from the outset, and the all-electric 4×2 model already offers some of the best-in-class capabilities that identify the Jeep brand.”

“But we couldn’t help but wonder, what would happen if we injected the Jeep brand’s four-wheel drive electrified capabilities into a compact package, while retaining the brand’s unique design language, capability and personality?” he added as the Jeep Avenger 4×4 Concept was introduced.

Exemplifying the ‘concentrated freedom’ ethos of the new Jeep Avenger, the 4×4 Concept blends, design, capability and innovation in a compact body. Eye-catching, fun, and distinctive, the new arrival will be added to Jeep’s range of 4xe models coming in the future.

Externally, the 4×4 Concept features tow hooks, wider bumpers and track, and is equipped with larger, exposed and more aggressive tyres. To further enhance the capability of the Jeep Avenger, the approach angle has been improved to 21 degrees, departure angle to 34 degrees and breakover angle to 20 degrees, thanks to the ground clearance which now exceeds 200mm.

The front end has additional protection, with thicker cladding and there are extra built-in flood lights to improve visibility when driving at night.

The Avenger 4×4 Concept displays a new lightweight roof cargo system concept that, with a special belt system, compresses the luggage on the roof and has scratch-proof protection along its entire length. The whole package is completed by an anti-reflective bonnet sticker and anti-scratch grille treatment for additional peace of mind when driving off-road.

The Avenger 4×4 Concept represents the ultimate expression of Jeep’s legendary capability, which has been enhanced by electrification, a combination that means customers can benefit from even more off-road capability, more fun and more freedom while driving in almost total silence.

Concluding the unveiling, Meunier said: “Here in Paris, we have shown that we have a full portfolio of new all-electric 4×4 capable Jeep models just around the corner, with a clear goal in mind: to become the number one electrified SUV brand in the world as we continue our path towards achieving our mission of Zero Emission Freedom.”

The full-electric Avenger joins a portfolio of Jeep vehicles which are 100 percent electrified in continental Europe.

Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the iconic BMW M GmbH, BMW India has launched an exclusive ‘50 Jahre M Edition’ of the BMW M5 Competition in India today. Available as Completely Built-up Unit (CBU), this exclusive edition can be booked online from today onwards.

BMW India had announced that it will launch 10 exclusive ‘50 Jahre M Editions’ to celebrate the M sub-brand that stands for high-performance adrenaline gushing cars.

For the last 50 years, BMW M has stood for those who enjoy high performance and supremacy of excellence. The BMW M5 Competition is often referred to as a wolf in sheep’s clothing, a saloon offering the utmost in terms of luxury and comfort, while having a 4.4l twin turbo V8 roaring under the hood. The M5 Competition provides undiluted M feeling with unmatched performance features like retuned chassis, new shock absorbers, track modem, active M differential with centrailsed intelligent control, bespoke engine mounting, special M Sport exhaust system, M multifunction seats and set-up button that come together to offer even better driving dynamics and superior comfort levels.

The limited edition is available at an attractive ex-showroom price of –

BMW M5 Competition 50 Jahre M Edition : INR 1,79,90,000

Exterior of the BMW M5 Competition 50 Jahre M Edition makes an immediate impression with its front look that consists of the new BMW Individual lights shadowline that adds a dark-tinted accent to the BMW laserlight and the L-shaped light tubes connecting towards the kidney grille in narrow streaks. The exclusive, BMW Individual paint finish in Aventurine Red lends it a striking look. Sitting proudly above the BMW Kidney Grille is the iconic 50 Jahre M Emblem. Visually distinct from the conventional BMW emblem, it signals passion for racing and for the roots of the BMW M brand. The M emblem adorns the front and rear logo as well as the wheel hub caps. Black styling details all over the exterior underline its elite status. The BMW kidney grille surround, M-specific double bars, the mesh on the M gills, mirror caps and the additional rear spoiler on the boot lid all have a high-gloss black finish. Black M5 Competition badges adorn the kidney grille, the gills and the boot lid, while the door sill plates have an illuminated version. The rear design features new 3D rear lights with densely illuminated LED bars which give a new interpretation to BMW typical “L-shape”. The rear apron includes black inserts. The standard M compound brake now features callipers in red high gloss. The quad tailpipes of the standard M sport exhaust system are finished in black chrome.

Interior of the new BMW M5 Competition is sporty and luxurious. Bespoke upholstery in leather merino elevates the interior in Aragon Brown BMW Individual headliner anthracite and high-gloss shadow line provide a luxurious feel. M multifunction seats with integral head restraints, an illuminated ‘M5’ logo and extended functions come as standard. Exclusive functions such as M Seat belts, M footrest and pedals, M leather steering wheel, seat heating (driver and front passenger), electrical seat adjustment with memory function, automatic tailgate add to the comfort. Adding to the sense of space is the large Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) sunroof. Ambient lighting with six dimmable light designs creates an atmosphere for every mood while automatic 4 zone A/C further enhances the in-cabin experience. Welcome light carpet, which is projected from the side sill, welcomes passengers in glamorous style. The soft-close function for doors adds to convenience in closing doors softly and quietly. Comfort access system enables easy ingress and egress from the vehicle with features such as keyless entry, automatic locking, contactless opening of tailgate etc. The car is equipped with adaptive M-specific suspension, M sport exhaust system, M high performance compound brakes and 20-inch M jet black alloy wheels in the standard profile.

The high performance V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo Technology under the bonnet of the new BMW M5 Competition is the most powerful V8 offered by BMW’s M Division and it goes about its business in racing-car-derived, high-revving style. It imposes muscularity and supreme power delivery. Specially designed bespoke engine mounts with a stiffer spring rate result in even more rapid engine response offering greater directness and precision. The engine generates maximum output of 625 hp and peak torque of 750 Nm with 0-100 kmph acceleration in just 3.3 seconds.

The eight speed M Steptronic transmission enables extraordinary short shift times and fast, precise responses to every nudge of the accelerator. The driver can use both the selector lever and the shift paddles on the steering wheel to intervene manually. The damper response settings vary according to the mode selected with the driving experience control switch, that allows the driver to choose between different modes to suit the driving conditions. The new two-button operating concept in the centre console originates from the BMW M8. Using the M setup, the driver can further improve driving dynamics, be it comprehensive driving stabilisation. M Mode selector on the centre console. It adjusts the contents of the instrument cluster displays and the head-up display and can be used to activate the Road and Sport settings. The BMW M5 Competition also offers Track mode, for an undiluted M experience on race circuits.

Modern cockpit concept BMW live cockpit professional with BMW operating system 7.0 includes 3D Navigation, a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument display behind the steering wheel and a bigger 12.3-inch control display. This makes it even easier to keep a clear eye on the myriad functions associated with the driving dynamics systems and BMW M xDrive all-wheel drive, which can be altered to 2WD mode. The occupants can operate several functions simply by speaking to their BMW virtual assistant. Hands do the talking with BMW gesture control that recognises six pre-defined hand movements for control of a number of 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 and is unique worldwide in the automotive sector. BMW head-up display to a special M view projects all information relevant to the journey directly into the driver’s field of vision. BMW display key allows drivers to keep in contact with their car round the clock.

The new BMW M5 Competition presents best-in-class cutting-edge driver assistance systems. Parking assistant plus with surround 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. The comfort access system makes it possible to open all four vehicle doors without using the key.

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, Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and Electronic Differential Lock Control (EDLC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), electric parking brake with auto hold, side-impact protection, electronic vehicle immobilizer and crash sensors, ISOFIX child seat mounting and emergency spare wheel.

Between 17 to 23 October, Dacia will attend the Mondial de l’Auto at the Paris Porte de Versailles Exhibition Centre where the brand will showcase its models and exciting new developments.

The full range, featuring the new brand identity, will make a world premiere alongside the recently revealed Manifesto concept car. Dacia’s first 140 hybrid engine will also make its debut as well as eco-designed branded merchandise, adding to what will be a truly immersive experience, on a stand that strongly explores the brand’s new direction.

The entire dacia range adopts the new brand identity
Dacia has recently started a new chapter, adopting a new brand identity. To date, this has included a new logo, rolled out simultaneously across its entire range, new dealerships, new design and new colours. The Mondial de l’Auto in Paris is the chosen venue where Dacia will introduce these exciting developments to the public for the very first time.

On display will be the full vehicle range bearing the new emblem – the Dacia Link – where the sleek lines of a ‘D’ and ‘C’ join like the links of a chain, symbolising robustness and simplicity. Through its logo, Dacia emphasises its values: an essential brand that is cool, robust, outdoor and eco-smart (economic and ecological).

Manifesto concept car, an embodiment of dacia’s values
The Dacia Manifesto concept car will make its world premiere on the Dacia stand. While it does not prefigure a future production model, it embodies Dacia’s vision of essential, cool, robust, affordable and environmentally friendly vehicles.

It is a testing ground for the latest innovative features, some of which will end up on production models. The Manifesto is a very compact, lightweight car. It is more agile than it is fast and is designed for the wilderness and great outdoors. Manifesto is a free expression of Dacia’s vision that serves as a tangible representation of its values and brand markers.

The car is essential and cooler than ever with its extractable single headlight, Media Control system, and YouClip accessory interface that will debut on the upcoming generation of Duster.

Manifesto is robust, able to tackle any terrain with its airless tyres. It is waterproof and can be easily hosed down both inside and out.

The concept is eco-smart, using Starkle®, a unique material which is made using 20% recycled plastic with a speckled appearance. It will also make its debut on the next generation Duster.

The Hybrid 140 engine arriving soon on Jogger
The hybrid 140 engine will be showcased with a dedicated demonstrator on the stand. The Jogger will become Dacia’s first hybrid next year, adding to a range of eco-smart solutions for the brand. The technology, already mastered within the Renault Group, is yet another opportunity for Dacia to leverage tried and tested components and proven technology.

Orders will begin early 2023 with start of sales officially starting in spring.

An Eco-designed Range of Merchandise
The Dacia range of merchandise includes backpacks, reusable bottles, caps, and raincoats. Only the essentials to help reconnect with nature, and champion the brand’s values: simplicity, robustness, and authenticity. True to the new brand identity, the range uses recycled materials (raincoats and backpacks made of recycled polyester, caps made of recycled poly-cotton) and sustainable materials (aluminium bottles).

The entire range of merchandise is environmentally friendly at every step of the way, from product design to distribution channels. In the future, the collection will be available in dealerships in a recycled and recyclable cardboard display that already features other merchandise. Once again, Dacia’s aim to get rid of everything superfluous applies to its entire value chain.

Orders can be placed via a dedicated e-commerce site starting with the opening of the Mondial de l’Auto on October 17 by clicking here. What’s more, the Dacia brand is once again demonstrating its eco-responsible approach as the online platform is hosted by Infomaniak, a service provider with a 360° approach to achieve carbon neutrality throughout the tool’s life cycle.

Citroën has revealed a fresh corporate brand identity and logo, signalling the start of a bold, exciting and dynamic new era for the 103-year-old brand as it accelerates electric mobility and extends its core DNA for affordability, audacity and customer wellbeing.

The new look reinterprets the original logo first adopted by founder André Citroën, inspired by the success of his first metalworking company producing chevron-shaped ’herringbone’ gear systems. The familiar “deux chevrons” has remained at the heart of Citroën’s identity ever since.

The new emblem signposts the brand’s transition and evolution and will debut at the end of September on a significant Citroën concept. The new logo will then progressively feature on future Citroën production and concept vehicles from mid-2023.

Citroën’s Global Brand Designer Alexandre Revert says: “As we look to the future, it was logical for us to close the loop by coming back graphically to André Citroën’s first logo which represented the genuine promise of affordable and innovative mobility for all. Progressively moving to a more prominent and visible brand signature for our future designs is a significant if subtle evolution, where the precision of the technical, functional chevrons are embraced by and contrasted with the warmth and almost human softness of the oval that surrounds them.”

Complementing the new logo is a fresh corporate brand identity programme and new brand signature – “Nothing Moves Us Like Citroën” – which will start to be used in corporate and product communications and activities. The new identity took inspiration from more intimate non-automotive brands, including cosmetics and apparel, to convey a warmer expression of the brand that is easy on the eyes when experienced in different settings.

Particular care has been given to the design to ensure the digital experience meets the expectations of new customers for ergonomics and aesthetics – including providing a ‘dark mode’ option – fully meeting the needs and requirements for online sales.

In addition, a new animatic language is under development to integrate the new identity in all digital touchpoints, both inside the vehicle through HMI screens and outside in the My Citroën App, providing customers with an enriched and coherent Citroën experience.

The new identity will also extend beyond the digital environment and use of the new logo on and in vehicles to embrace all elements of the company’s corporate identity, from merchandising and documentation to dealerships and corporate building signage.

The comfortable and familiar “La Maison Citroën” retail interior concept will also continue to be enhanced. A fresh, simplified colour palette and new lettering evolved from Citroën’s current fonts will complement the logo and further enhance the new brand identity.

Inspired by an important legacy colour for Citroën which has been used on iconic cars throughout the company’s history including the 2CV and the DS, the Monte Carlo Blue will be making a welcome return to the car portfolio soon, as well as featuring in details of the brand identity palette for corporate and retail applications. This will be joined by a more energetic and distinctive Infra-Red, replacing the currently used red to add balance and dynamic contrast in physical, print and digital applications.

Citroën CEO Vincent Cobée said: “As we embark on probably the most exciting chapter in our illustrious 103-year history, the time is right for Citroën to adopt a modern and contemporary new look. Our new identity is an elegant symbol of progress as we move our customers physically in daring, forward-looking vehicles that challenge traditional industry rules, and emotionally by ensuring their entire experience – particularly going electric – is more affordable, comfortable, and enjoyable whatever their wants and needs.

“Our legacy of inspiring consumers with daring and revolutionary vehicles is energising us to adopt a different, more inclusive approach to future family mobility, and we firmly believe that customers past, present and future will agree that nothing moves us like Citroën.”

Developed by Citroën’s design team, the new Citroën identity has benefited from the expertise of Stellantis Design Studio, the global brand design agency of Stellantis dedicated to internal and external clients.

Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the iconic BMW M GmbH, BMW India has launched an exclusive ‘50 Jahre M Edition’ of the BMW X4 in India.

Locally produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai, the BMW X4 M Sport Black Edition comes in both petrol and diesel variants. The X4 is available as an exclusive ‘50 Jahre M Edition’ in limited numbers and can be booked exclusively online. Designed with a focus on dynamics, it’s tailored to suit the needs of motorsport enthusiasts.

BMW India had recently announced that it will launch 10 exclusive ‘50 Jahre M Editions’ to celebrate the M sub-brand that stands for high-performance adrenaline gushing cars.

The BMW X4 popularised the distinctive Sports Activity Coupe that embodies luxury and performance. BMW’s Sheer Driving Pleasure coupled with the sleek coupe design of the X4 offers an ultimate package. It continues to set the standard in its segment with an attractive profile with multiple technology features. Its forever bold persona makes a statement that’s impossible to forget.

The limited edition is available at an attractive ex-showroom price of:

BMW X4 30i M Sport 50 Jahre M Edition : INR 72,90,000

BMW X4 30d M Sport 50 Jahre M Edition : INR 74,90,000

The distinctive sports activity coupe design of the new BMW X4 is a guaranteed head turner. The exterior reinforces the off-road look and sportiness. Sitting proudly above the BMW Kidney Grille is the iconic M Emblem along with ‘50 Years of M’ door projector inspired by the classic ‘BMW Motorsport’ logo. Visually distinct from the conventional BMW emblem, it signals passion for racing and for the roots of the BMW M brand.

The distinctive BMW mesh kidney grille has all-black mesh-inserts and frame finished in ‘M High Gloss Shadow line’. Adaptive LED Headlamps are now 10mm slimmer and flatter, creating a more focused face. They are designed in M Shadow line with black accents and have Matrix function as standard. Moving below, the front apron conveys power through the M Aerodynamic package which features components in body colour in front / rear apron and side sill covers. The side profile is tremendously athletic and sporty. A visual black frame is created around the coupe-style windows with M High Gloss Shadow line. It extends from window recess cover, along the guide rail, mid pillars, to the base of the side-view mirrors and finally the roof rail. The bumper is done up in dark shadow metallic colour with new anvil-shaped inlays in high gloss black and vertically arranged reflectors. The enormous width of the car is emphasised through two-part wrap-around LED rear taillights, a large automatic tailgate and wide free-form tailpipe in black colour.

Another exclusive feature that enhances the sporting appeal is the 20″ 699 M Jet Black alloys with M Sport Brake Callipers in Red High Gloss. The car is available in Black Sapphire and M Brooklyn Grey metallic paintworks. They are paired with Leather Vernasca upholstery with ‘Black’ decor stitching. M interior trim Aluminum Rhombicle dark with highlight trim finisher in Pearl Chrome is standard.

Customers can add sporting character to every detail with an optional M Accessories Package. The Motorsport Package gives the car a 360 makeover by providing accessories for both interior and exterior. The package includes M Performance rear spoiler in matt black, tail fins in black in gloss, gear knob in carbon fibre and key fob in alacantara & carbon fibre. Carbon Package is for the enthusiast who wants to turn heads when on the road. It can further enhance the sporty character of the car as all the accessories are in carbon fibre material such as kidney grille, rear spoiler, mirror caps etc.

The interior boasts an exceptional level of comfort and functionality in a new sporty ambience. Together with an elevated seat position and generous proportions, it ensures first-class comfort. The interior has clearly structured surfaces and an ergonomically impeccable cockpit design that ensures the driver’s focus remains one hundred per cent on the intense driving experience. Driver and front passenger enjoy the superior flair of a premium SAC with Sports Seats which impress with numerous electrical adjustment options and memory function. Rear passengers can tilt the seats backwards by up to 9 degrees for added comfort. The modern design of the centre console, instrument panel in sensatec, usage of M headliner anthracite and galvanic embellisher adds to the cabin’s premiumness. M leather steering wheel with ‘Walknappa’ black with black stitching and M logo spells exclusivity.

A relaxed and harmonious lounge atmosphere is created thanks to a large electrically operated panorama sunroof. Ambient lighting with six selectable light designs creates an atmosphere for every mood. Welcome light carpet, projected from the side sill, welcomes passengers in glamorous style. Features such as electroplated controls and 3-zone automatic climate control with extended options add to the overall luxurious feel. The boot has a capacity of 525 litres and can be expanded further to 1,430 litres by folding down the 40/20/40 split rear seat backrest.

The innovative petrol and diesel engines from the BMW EfficientDynamics family offer considerably more spirited power delivery as well as spontaneous responsiveness even at low engine speeds. Thanks to their unrivalled BMW TwinPower turbo technology, they meld maximum power with exemplary efficiency. The three-litre six-cylinder diesel engine of the BMW X4 xDrive30d produces an output of 265 hp and a maximum torque of 620 Nm at 2,000 – 2,500 rpm, driving power to all four wheels. The car accelerates from 0 -100 kmph in just 5.8 seconds. The two-litre four-cylinder petrol engine of BMW X4 xDrive30i produces an output of 252 hp and maximum torque of 350 Nm at 1,450–4,800 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 kmph in just 6.6 seconds.

The 8-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission performs smooth, almost imperceptible gear shifts. 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, the 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission is available with steering wheel paddle shifters.

BMW xDrive, an intelligent all-wheel-drive system, monitors the driving situation constantly and is quick to respond. The compact, low-weight and efficient all-wheel-drive system distributes the engine’s power between the front and rear axle exactly to suit the driving situation and the surface. 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. Adaptive suspension makes it possible to adjust the damper characteristics to suit any given driving situation, increasing comfort and driving dynamics.

A host of BMW ConnectedDrive technologies continue to break the innovation barrier in automotive industry. The modern cockpit concept BMW Live Cockpit Professional includes 3D navigation, a 12.3-inch digital information display behind the steering wheel, a 12.3-inch control display and BMW head-up display. The occupants can operate a number of car functions simply by speaking to their BMW Virtual Assistant. Hands do the talking with BMW gesture control that recognises six pre-defined hand movements for control of a number of functions. Wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto ensure seamless smartphone connection with the car to access several functions. Harman Kardon surround sound system with 16 speakers conjures an engrossing treat for the ears.

The spread of driver assistance systems is more extensive than ever. Parking assistant with rear view camera makes parking in tight spots easier. The reversing assistant provides unmatched support in reversing out of a parking spot or through narrow driveways.

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, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and Electronic Differential Lock Control (EDLC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), electric parking brake with auto hold, side-impact protection, electronic vehicle immobilizer and crash sensors, ISOFIX child seat mounting and emergency spare wheel.

BMW EfficientDynamics doubles ‘Sheer Driving Pleasure’ with features such as Auto Start-Stop, ECO PRO mode, Brake-Energy Regeneration, Electronic Power Steering, 50:50 Weight Distribution and many other innovative technologies. Using the Driving Experience Control switch, driver is able to choose between different driving modes (ECOPRO, COMFORT, SPORT/ SPORT+) to suit diverse driving conditions.

The BMW X4 features cutting-edge safety technologies. It provides optimal support in any situation with six airbags, Attentiveness Assistance, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including Cornering Brake Control (CBC), electric parking brake with auto hold, side-impact protection, electronic vehicle immobiliser and crash sensor, ISOFIX child seat mounting and integrated emergency spare wheel under the load floor.

The new Maserati GranTurismo has taken to the road ahead of its official reveal, in the Modena and Trofeo versions fitted with the V6 Nettuno engine.

GranTurismo is the Brand’s true icon and its energy is unstoppable: the high-performance coupé is already travelling many miles, with a selected number of employees from the Maserati Family in the driving seat.

The livery has only one main message: the return of a Maserati icon created 75 years ago.

It all began with the A6 1500, a model with a revolutionary spirit, the forerunner of a class of car that had never been seen before. It would go on to influence the automotive landscape all over the world, and successive generations of Maserati road cars.

GranTurismo is a way of life 100% Made in Italy: a type of high-performance car, suitable for long distances and comfortable journeys.

The idea came about after WWII, during the Italian economic boom, when we showed the world our outstanding products, our strength, optimism and carefree attitude, the will to work but also to enjoy ourselves.

At that historic moment, Maserati solved an equation that appeared to be impossible: a new concept of luxury mobility, capable of bringing together performance and comfort.

Today, the energy of the new Maserati GranTurismo generation is now ready to take the Brand ahead into the future, emboldened by its unique style and driven by an innate propensity for innovation.

India’s Jehan Daruvala raced to his fourth Formula 2 win in the championship’s main Feature race at Italy’s Monza race track on Sunday.

The 23-year-old started sixth on the grid but used a mix of strategy, race craft and tyre management to capitalise on a safety car and red flag-interrupted race and clinch a comfortable win around the hallowed ‘Temple of Speed’.

The win was Jehan’s first this season. It comes after the Red Bull-backed racer went from fifth to third in Saturday’s Sprint race, making it two podiums from two races for Jehan this weekend and eight this year.

It was also his sixth top-three finish at Monza and second win at the track after the Indian won there last year.

“What a weekend,” said Jehan. “It’s been a long time coming. “We’ve had the win taken away from us for one reason or another on more than one occasion this year. “But we’ve kept our heads down, kept believing, kept pushing and we’ve finally done it.

“And what a venue to do it at too! “Monza is up there with one of my all-time favourite tracks and standing on the top step of this incredible podium, out over the main straight with the Indian national anthem playing out, feels so, so special.”

Jehan made a good getaway, but starting on the dirty side of the grid got bogged down after the initial start.

Nevertheless, he kept sixth as the field went through the first chicane but lost a place to Juri Vips as he lifted in anticipation of a safety car after an opening-lap shunt involving Ralph Boschung and Theo Pourchaire.

The safety car wasn’t deployed until later, however, and Jehan was forced to defend from Jack Doohan on the run to the second Roggia chicane.

The pair went wheel-to-wheel in the braking zone with Logan Sargeant making it three-wide into the chicane. Doohan, with Jehan on the inside and Sargeant on the outside had nowhere to go and ended up colliding with Jehan.

The Red Bull-backed racer however suffered only minor damage and carried on as the safety car was finally deployed.

Racing resumed at the end of Lap 5 with Jehan running seventh. But a crash for Calan Williams at the Ascari chicane brought the safety car back out on Lap 8.

Jehan seized the opportunity to pit, with the perfectly timed stop eventually moving him up to third once his other rivals had pitted.

That left him perfectly placed to battle for the win as the red flag was deployed to allow track workers to clear away Williams’ stranded Trident and carry out repairs to the barriers.

The race resumed after a ten-minute stoppage. Jehan went on to put on a masterclass of tyre management and race craft as he bided his time at first before piling the pressure on to race leader Richard Verschoor and second-placed Marino Sato.

He passed Sato on Lap 18 of 30 and was hot on Verschoor’s heels. But the Trident racer, struggling with tyre wear, dived into pits with just five laps to go, handing Jehan a lead he would keep until the chequered flag.

“This weekend’s result couldn’t have come at a better time as we now head to Abu Dhabi for the season-finale,” added Jehan.

“The Yas Marina track is another venue I like and I won there last year. So going there on the back of a weekend like this one gives us a major boost.”

The Formula 2 championship, which acts as a support series for Formula One, will have the chance for a bit of a break as F1 embarks on its Asian and American swing.

The championship will return for it’s last and final round of the season on the Nov. 18-20th weekend alongside the Formula One season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Citroën India has announced the launch of the new C5 Aircross SUV with a special introductory price of INR 36,67,000 (ex-showroom Delhi). The new C5 Aircross SUV gets a design makeover, which gives it a more distinguished, modern, and dynamic personality. In its 2022 avatar, the car is now more attractive and dynamic, with a sharper design that is complemented by high-quality colours as well as interior materials that fortify the SUV’s comfort and spaciousness.

The new C5 Aircross SUV retains characteristics that make it stand out in its segment, contributing to an overall experience focused on well-being and ease of use. The progressive hydraulic cushions suspension, exclusive to Citroën, enhances absorption of imperfections in the road and ensures that passengers travel in absolute comfort, with a real “flying carpet” effect. The only SUV in the segment to offer three individual sliding, reclining and retractable rear seats, allowing you to enjoy people carrier-level modularity in a real SUV. The boot volume is a record for the segment: from 580 L to 1630 L. Finally, special attention has been paid to the acoustic characteristics with the option of benefiting from acoustic laminated front windows which amplify the cocoon effect within the car.

The New Citroën C5 Aircross SUV is now available for retail at 20 La Maison Citroën phygital showrooms in 19 cities, namely, New Delhi, Gurgaon, Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kochi, Chennai, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Lucknow, Bhubaneswar, Surat, Nagpur, Vizag, Calicut, and Coimbatore.

Citroën will also extend its 100 per cent direct online buying – BUY ONLINE – for the New Citroën C5 Aircross SUV. Customers in over 90 Indian cities, including those outside the dealer network, will be covered through this direct online initiative and can order directly from the factory.

As a part of the New Citroën C5 Aircross SUV’s Warranty Programme, Citroën has services like a standard vehicle warranty for 36 months or 100,000 kilometres, from the date of delivery whichever is earlier. This includes a warranty on spare parts & accessories and 24/7 Roadside Assistance for maximum comfort and mobility. Extended warranty and maintenance packages are also available across the network.

To make the Citroën ownership experience more comfortable, the company will also offer the Citroën Future Sure package for New Citroën C5 Aircross SUV customers. This comprehensive package allows customers to own a Citroën with an attractive EMI and the package also includes Routine Maintenance, Extended Warranty, Roadside Assistance, and an on-road financing for up to five years.

Roland Bouchara, CEO & Managing Director, Stellantis India, said, “We are excited to launch the new C5 Aircross SUV in India, our flagship SUV in the Citroën portfolio and it embodies all the elements of the Citroën Advanced Comfort® program. C5 Aircross, recognised since its launch as the most comfortable and flexible SUV in its category, has now been given a makeover to assert a more prestigious, modern and dynamic personality. It is becoming more aspirational and will appeal to Indian customers waiting for a more distinctive character.”

Saurabh Vatsa, Brand Head, Citroën India, remarked, “While building on its strengths of comfort, on-board spaciousness and modularity, the new C5 Aircross SUV has matured to become more elegant and dynamic with sharper exterior styling and more modern, high-quality colours and materials for the interior. C5 Aircross introduces a new design language at the front, with curves giving way to more structured lines. A new three-dimensional light signature at the rear, a new 18” diamond-cut alloy wheel and a new design of the 10” touchscreen and centre console will certainly appeal to customers in this C-SUV segment.”