The new MINI Countryman was launched in India today. Locally produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai, the new MINI Countryman will be available in two petrol variants – MINI Countryman Cooper S and MINI Countryman Cooper S JCW Inspired.

Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “The new MINI Countryman inspires you to take the path to new experiences and new horizons of the mind. This versatile sports activity vehicle (SAV) is just as home in an urban jungle as it is in the great outdoors. Its adrenaline pumping engine, elegant interior design features and latest technology blend harmoniously together. The new MINI Countryman guarantees exciting new experiences, whether on a planned holiday or a spontaneous getaway. We are pleased to launch the new MINI Countryman for the first-time with an all-in ‘Absolute Value’ offer for our customers that ensures a comprehensive ownership experience.”

The ex-showroom prices of the two petrol engine variants are as follows:

MINI Countryman Cooper S : INR 39,50,000

MINI Countryman Cooper S JCW Inspired : INR 43,40,000

The new MINI Countryman adds a refreshed look with its inspiring design, new features and technology making it a perfect companion for long journeys or city drives and comes for the first-time with an all-in ‘Absolute Value’ offer. For a fixed EMI, customers can own the versatile new MINI Countryman for a period of 3 or 4 years with a secure and comprehensive ownership package that includes Service Inclusive Plus, Repair Inclusive, MINI Secure, Assured Buy-back Value with MINI 360°, Loyalty / Trade-in offer as well as an attractive 20% discount on MINI Accessories & Lifestyle. The all-in ‘Absolute Value’ offer will be available on both variants of the new MINI Countryman till end of June 2021. Further details on the offer are available at all MINI authorised dealerships.

The new MINI Countryman introduces two new colour options – White Silver and Sage Green, newly designed front and rear bumper, radiator grille, LED headlights and LED Rear Lights now with Union Jack Design. The new 5.5-inch/13.97 cm Multifunction fully Digital Display, new Leather Chester Upholstery in Malt Brown and Satellite Grey with matching colour line, MINI Yours Interior Style Shaded Silver Illuminated interior surface trim, John Cooper Works Aerodynamic kit and 7- Speed Double Clutch Steptronic Sport Transmission are exclusive to the new MINI Countryman Cooper S JCW Inspired.

The new MINI Countryman will be available in six striking colours including Sage Green (new), White Silver (new), Midnight Black, Chilli Red, Island Blue and British Racing Green.

Exterior of the new MINI Countryman expresses the vehicle’s versatility, agility and premium character. Contrasting roof, new LED headlight, LED rear lights in Union Jack Design, new radiator grille, new front and rear bumper and 17-inch/43.18 cm Imprint Spoke Wheel in the Cooper S variant add a fresh new look to the already captivating design. The roof-rails in satin-finished aluminium are combined with silver-coloured side sill tops, thereby lending greater visual emphasis to the height of the car. The slightly asymmetrically rounded contour of the LED headlamp together with the radiator grille produces a distinctive front view. The John Cooper Works Aerodynamic kit and 18 inch/ 45.72 cm John Cooper Works Thrill Spoke Wheel in the Cooper S JCW Inspired variant with runflat tyres add to the overall style quotient of the vehicle.

The exquisite interior style blends modern aesthetics and refined craftsmanship with practical functionality. The typical MINI cockpit impresses with its clear horizontal structure, stretched lines and generously sized surfaces. The MINI Countryman Cooper S comes with Interior Surface Piano Back with Leatherette Carbon Black upholstery while the MINI Countryman Cooper S JCW Inspired offers a new trim MINI Yours Interior Style Shaded Silver with options of either Leather Chester Malt Brown or Leather Chester Satellite Grey upholstery. The colour lines seen along the door panel, armrest surfaces and knee pads under the dashboard are now matched with the individual upholstery colours.

The MINI Excitement Pack features LED interior and ambient lighting which illuminates the cockpit with a choice of selectable colours as well as a projection of the MINI logo from the exterior mirror on the driver’s side when opening and closing the car door.

John Cooper Works influence continues in the illuminated cockpit with the JCW Sports Leather Steering Wheel. The car is equipped with premium features such as the Harman Kardon Hi-Fi Speaker System, Panorama Glass Sunroof, MINI Wired Package including MINI Navigation System with Touch Controller and Bluetooth mobile connectivity.

The MINI Countryman Cooper S JCW Inspired introduces a new Multifunction fully Digital Display that offers a clear view of speed, gear, fuel level, mileage, temperature and navigation instructions. The Head-Up Display further helps in keeping eyes on the road without missing essential details such as driving speed and navigation instructions. The iconic circular central instrument panel is surrounded by an LED ring offering a brilliant colour display in 8.8-inch/22.35 cm touchscreen (6.5-inch/16.51cm in the Cooper S variant). The intuitive use is complemented by the controller on the middle console for easy operation of multimedia, phone and car functions. Wireless charging is also offered as standard in this variant.

The electric seat adjustment (with memory function for driver) now offers enhanced head and shoulder space for both the driver and front passenger. The three full-fledged seats at the rear make for ample and comfortable seating for rear passengers. Using the cargo function, boot capacity can be increased from 450 litres to 1,390 litres by folding down the rear backrest with its 40:20:40 split. The new MINI Countryman can be parked at a scenic space and the view can be enjoyed with the unique Picnic Bench that folds out of the luggage compartment to provide seating space for two while protecting the clothing with a fender dirt protection flap. Automatic Tailgate combined with Comfort Access System allows the boot to be opened and closed just by waving the foot under the rear fender.

When it comes to power, the new MINI Countryman makes no compromises. It is powered by the latest MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology offering outstanding performance and efficiency. The 2-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine with TwinPower Turbo Technology makes the new MINI Countryman high on performance and light on fuel. It mobilises a peak output of 192 hp/141 kW at 5,000 – 6,000 rpm and produces a maximum torque of 280 Nm at 1,350 – 4,600 rpm. It sprints to 100 km/hr in 7.5 seconds and the top speed is 225 km/hr.

The new 7-Speed Double Clutch Steptronic Transmission in Cooper S and the 7-Speed Double Clutch Steptronic Sport Transmission in Cooper S JCW Inspired offers even more efficient, comfortable and sporty driving due to a broader gear spread and smaller engine speed steps. The MINI Countryman Cooper S JCW Inspired features paddles shifters for even sportier driving experience.

MINI Driving Modes enable an individualised vehicle set-up focusing on ride comfort, enhanced sportiness or efficiency according to driver’s preference. In addition to the standard MID mode there is a choice of SPORT and GREEN mode. Driver Assistance Systems include Cruise Control, Park Assistant, Rear View Camera and Head-Up Display.

The new MINI Countryman is stacked with cutting-edge safety technology. The standard safety equipment comprises of front passenger airbags, Brake Assist, 3-Point Seat Belts, Dynamic Stability Control, Crash Sensor, Anti-lock Braking System, Cornering Brake Control and Run-flat tyres as standard.

The standard MINIMALISM technology includes auto start/stop function, brake energy recuperation, active cooling air flaps and electromechanical power steering.

Citroën is ready for India with the launch of “La Maison Citroën” phygital showroom in Kolkata. Located in the heart of the city, the showroom is among the first “La Maison Citroën” in India that is ready ahead of the start of pre-booking date (1st March 2021). The showroom will also offer customers a comfortable Test Drive experience and full-fledged After-Sales services.

“La Maison Citroën” will disrupt the codes of traditional automobile distribution. It is a ‘feels like home’ comfort experience with its warm, friendly and colourful ambience. A giant screen placed on the facade attracts passers-by, encouraging them to walk inside. The warm interiors featuring a natural wood finish and colourful inscriptions invite customers to experience the Citroën brand and its century-old legacy.

A full digital ecosystem will link seamlessly the digital experience of customers and will enrich the journey at the showroom with ATAWADAC reception Bar, high definition 3D configurator, Citroën Origins touchscreen.

As part of the 360° Comfort strategy for India, Citroën will offer a range of services to build trust with consumers with unmatched comfort, never experienced before. These services will include attractive finance and leasing services through Citroën Finance and Insurance and 30 minute Guaranteed Trade-In facility.

Commenting on “La Maison Citroën”, Roland Bouchara, SVP, Sales & Marketing, Citroën India, says, “We are excited to innovate and launch the “La Maison Citroën” in India and the Kolkata phygital showroom is an important milestone as we gear up towards the launch of our first car C5 Aircross SUV. The showroom will have numerous screens, debuting the ATAWADAC experience (AnyTime AnyWhere AnyDevice AnyContent) and a unique High Definition 3D configurator allowing customers to experience the product with a 360° view and personalise their product and services.”

Speaking about dealer network development in India, Joel Verany, VP, Sales & Network, Citroën India said, “Citroën is all about comfort and digital innovation, and through this La Maison Citroën phygital showrooms, we are confident that we will be able to bring a revolution in the way an Indian car consumer looks at his car purchasing journey. At the time of launch of the C5 Aircross SUV, La Maison Citroën will welcome customers in 10 main cities in India.”

RI District 3291 and Rotary Club of Calcutta Centenary along with other Rotary Clubs of the district is organising a Vintage and Super Car Show at Freemasons Hall (19 Park Street, Calcutta) in association with District Grand Lodge of Bengal and EMSA – Eastern Motor Sports Association represented by Mr. Deborshi Sadhan Billy Bose for creating awareness on reducing the Plastic and other pollutants, which are affecting the water bodies and land masses.

This event would be called – “Save our City, Say No to Plastic”. The organisers are also taking this opportunity to invite all Vintage and Super Car owners of the city, Club members to participate in this event and help to spread the most critical message of this millennium of saving our city, saving our planet.

Around 40 cars, including a mix of vintage and super cars will be showcased at the event. The cars will assemble at the Driveway of Freemasons Hall (entry by Gate next to Kwality Restaurant) on Saturday, February 27, by 2:30 PM. After a light refreshment, the Car show would be inaugurated by District Governor RI District 3291 – DG Sudip Mukherjee. Also in attendance will be other RI District Leaders. The event is being organised in partnership with Eastern Motor Sports Association (Technology Partner) and Grand Lodge of Bengal (Venue & Carnival Partner).

Kolkata Moto Fest 2021, a 4 Wheeler Autocross and 2 Wheeler Dirt Track event, set everyone’s adrenaline racing at the Shyam Business Park, near Singur. This exciting motor extravaganza was held in front of the motorsports enthusiasts of Kolkata during this weekend of 20th – 21st February. This was the first Autocross & Dirt Track event held in Eastern India after the COVID-19 pandemic which witnessed a neck to neck competition amongst the top driver and riders of the eastern zone.

The event was supported by Shyam Business Park, Godrej Properties and Red Bull. This year the event had eight diffeent categories for 4 Wheelers & similarly eight separate categories for 2 Wheelers, divided according to engine capacity and modification, to make the competition as fair as possible. The total numbers of entries were 146 amongst which the numbers of lady participants were four. Veteran rallyist Subir Roy won the Best Performer Award for 4 Wheeler Autocross and Uday Ganguli was the adjudged the Best Performer in 2 Wheelers Dirt Track. Sourabh Choudhury, Sk. Ibrahim Ali, Soumik Basu, Jogendra Kumar Jaiswal and Yogesh Chandra Mullick was other category toppers in Autocross. Deepshikha Ganeriwala emerged triumphant in the Ladies Class while young lad Chandrasish Roy impressed the onlookers with his driving skills.

In the 2 Wheelers Dirt Track categories, Sayan Mondal, Manmeet Singh Dhanjal, Somhrit Chanda, Sisir Raha, Vishal Das, Uday Ganguli pushed very hard to get their place on the top of the podium. 18-year-old Somhrit and newcomer Sayan won the spectator’s heart with their excellent performance and grit.

Speaking on the occasion, Saurav Chatterjee, the key organisers of this event explained the aim of the event is to woo the youth away from road racing to regulated motorsports, where safety of the drivers / rider is of paramount importance. He explained that Autocross & Dirt Track is not only about raw speed, one has to match that with driving acumen and physical stamina as well. The goal of this type of ground event is to identify young budding talents and thus Kolkata Moto Fest 2021 is a big step forward to the eminent goal. Motor Sports Association of Eastern India and Kolkata Automotive Sports Association, the organising motorsports clubs, wants to be the guiding force of many raw talents in the near future.

Valentine’s Day or the Feast of Saint Valentine is celebrated annually on February 14 as a Christian feast day honouring an early martyr named Saint Valentine and, through later folk traditions, has become a significant cultural celebration of romance and love in many regions of the world.

While it is common practice for one to woo their person of desire with flowers, chocolates and objects of value on this day of love, Eastern India Motoring Group (EIMG) set up Kolkatans for a very special date that will be etched in the memory of city for a long time to come.

On the event of Valentine’s Day 2021, EIMG organised the Valentine’s Day Brunch Meet which witnessed the coming together of nearly 75 Vintage and Classic vehicles. The galaxy of historic four and two wheelers were lined up outside the iconic venue of Town Hall. These horseless carriages and timeless pieces of history made for the fabulous view against the backdrop of the majestic edifice. Collectors, restorers and guests in attendance basked in the winter sun while exchanging anecdotes and pleasantries.

At around 10.45 am the convoy of cars and bikes were flagged off from Town Hall and drove past the iconic Raj Bhavan before hitting the majestic Red Road. The convoy continued straight before turning left onto Hospital Road and then embarking on the AJC Bose Road flyover. The car alighted from the flyover at the Park Circus 7-Point Crossing before turning right on to Gariahat Road driving past Quest Mall, Ice Skating Rink, CCFC, Birla Mandir, Ballygunge Phari and Pantaloons before embarking on to the Gariahat flyover. The convoy then took a right from the Golpark on to Southern Avenue and continued straight on the beautiful thoroughfare before culminating at the Lake Club where the camaraderie among the participants and guests continued over brunch and cocktails.

Some of the cars in attendance at the event were Ananda Chowdhury’s 1913 Stoewer, A. Bubna’s 1925 Rolls-Royce 20 HP, Deborshi Sadan Bose’s 1928 Auburn, Shrivardhan Kanoria’s 1931 Chevrolet Big 6, Pradeep Gooptu’s 1931 Austin 7, Sanjay Ghosh’s 1932 Ford V8, Azam Monem’s 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III, Avik Naha’s 1947 Rover 12, Sarojesh Mukherjee’s 1947 Rover P2, Siddhartha Swarup’s 1947 Wolseley, Rajiv Ghosh’s 1949 Buick Super and Rishi Kumar’s 1967 Datsun among host of others.

Barno Barman’s 1941 Matchless and Harjit Singh Dhanjal’s 1947 Arial Red Hunter stood out among the participating two wheelers.

But it was Saikat Dutta’s 1963 Triumph Spitfire which fluttered several young and restless hearts.  

EIMG, a group of Heritage Car owners, is the labour of love of Collector / Restorer Shrivardhan Kanoria who founded the group in 2020 with the objective of bringing together likeminded individuals and providing a platform to its members to interact with each other, share valuable information, educate one another about the preservation of these timeless beauties by virtue of a WhatsApp group. Together with Rajiv Ghosh (Vice President), Subhajit Kumar (Secretary), and Avik Naha (Committe Member), EIMG President Shrivardhan Kanoria has been instrumental in organising notable heritage car shows/drives in Kolkata under the EIMG banner.

“My intention is to make the eastern region of India rich in the Heritage car movement, and hence I keep organising such events for the EIMG members. EIMG was started just as my brainchild, but now has surely turned into an important institution of motoring heritage. With such events, our members get encouraged to keep their heritage vehicles in good order and also get an opportunity to use and enjoy them. Very soon we would even move towards organising our own Concours D Elegance events, which would be one of its kind”, said the EIMG President, Mr. Shrivardhan Kanoria.

After the recent success of Goodbye 2020 Brunch Meet held in December last year, the Valentine’s Day Brunch Meet was EIMG’s second event of the season which has been applauded by members and guests alike. 

“We keep affiliating with the clubs and other institutions which creates a destination for the EIMG members. These clubs are more than happy to support EIMG towards this good cause, just like Lake Club did this time” commented the EIMG Secretary, Mr. Subhajit Kumar.

Kia announced an update to its ‘Plan S’ strategy for its future business at the 2021 CEO Investor Day, held digitally today in Seoul. The ambitious update to its mid- to long-term roadmap was presented by Ho Sung Song, President and CEO of Kia Corporation.

“Kia is being reborn in 2021 with a new logo, new design, and new corporate name,” said President Song. “Kia will transform into a brand that excites and inspires customers with innovative mobility experiences.”

‘Kia transformation’ takes the company toward a broader business portfolio to redefine the entire mobility ecosystem, starting with the transition from internal combustion engine (ICE) to electrification. The renewed ‘Plan S’ strategy is underpinned by three core pillars: advancing electric vehicle (EV) transition, strengthening purpose-built vehicle (PBV) business, and expanding future mobility services.

By 2030, eco-friendly vehicles such as EVs, HEVs and PHEVs will make up 40 per cent of all sales for Kia, with an annual sales target of 1.6 million units. As part of this, Kia aims to grow EV sales to 880,000 units in 2030 and become a top global seller.

Starting with the launch of its first dedicated EV later this year, Kia will strengthen its EV lineup by 2026 with 11 new models – seven dedicated EVs built on the Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) architecture, and four based on existing ICE derivatives.

EVs built on E-GMP aim to set new benchmarks in All-Electric Range (AER), driving performance, interior space, and tech application. The EVs will function as smart devices with expanded application of Audio Video Navigation Telematics (AVNT), Over-the-Air (OTA) and Feature on Demand (FoD) services.

The first dedicated EV from Kia, codenamed CV, will be featured with HDA2 (Highway Driving Assist Level 2) technology. Starting in 2023, Kia EVs will be equipped with Highway Driving Pilot (HDP), a crucial autonomous driving Level 3 development.

Further product details and performance specifications for the CV will be revealed next month.

Kia will unveil its first purpose-built vehicle (PBV) in 2022, with further PBVs to be launched according to market needs. The company is targeting annual sales of one million units by 2030 to become a world leader in PBVs. To this end, Kia will develop a variety of specialised vehicles based on its PBV-dedicated skateboard platforms.

Kia plans to further expand its PBV business through open innovation by cooperating with other companies to develop micro/large board platforms for unmanned delivery and e-commerce sectors. The company will also advance its own highly scalable small board platforms and technologies since the company expects market demand for these services to increase globally.

Kia’s mobility services will gain a competitive edge by carefully targeting and focusing on core areas.

In the business-to-consumer domain, Kia will expand existing services. In Spain, the company’s flagship car-sharing service Wible will be expanded with Wible Más and Wible Empresas (tentatively named). The car usership service ‘KiaMobility’, which was launched in September last year as a pilot project in Italy and Russia, will also launch in additional European markets.

In the business-to-government and business-to-business, Kia will launch an EV-based service that combines subscription and car-sharing. Under this new mobility service concept, vehicles will be used for business on weekdays and rented by individuals on the weekends.

Kia’s subscription program ‘Kia Flex’, which was introduced in Korea in 2019, will launch a global version later this year under the name ‘Kia Subscription.’ The service will be operated by Sixt Leasing, which was acquired by Hyundai Motor Group last year, and the vehicles will be provided by the company’s regional affiliates and dealers.

Future business plans

(1) Business targets

Kia forecasts operating profit growth this year, based on increased sales volume and improved Average Selling Price (ASP) and product mix. In summary:

2021 Global Sales (based on wholesale): 2,922,000 units, 12.1 per cent increase Y-o-Y
2021 Revenue: KRW 65.6 trillion, 10.8 per cent increase Y-o-Y
2021 Operating Profit: KRW 3.5 trillion, 70.1 per cent increase Y-o-Y

(2) Operating profit margin

With increased profitability for new EV models, Kia made upward adjustments to its operating profit margin targets from the figures initially announced last year. Kia now targets 5.4 per cent operating profit margin in 2021, and 7.9 per cent operating profit margin in 2025.

(3) Basis for the increase in operating profit margin

Balanced growth in both advanced and emerging markets. Kia plans to expand its mid- to long-term sales to 3.8 million units in 2025. The percentage of eco-friendly vehicle sales, which is expected to reach around 10 per cent of total sales by 2021, is forecasted to increase to 22 per cent by 2025. For emerging markets, the company will expand its market share through local CKD (complete knock-down) production.

Product mix improvement

Kia expects that the ASP and product mix improvement, which led to the company’s profitability enhancement last year, will continue. In particular, the company’s RV (recreational vehicle) sales share is expected to continue to rise from 56 per cent in 2020 to 65 per cent in 2025.

Improving profitability of electric vehicles

It is expected that Kia will enter a new level of EV profitability with the release of CV later this year. The company expects to achieve profitability at the level of existing ICE models in 2025. The company also predicts that EV cost improvement will be continuously strengthened through economies of scale due to the expansion of EV volume and the reduction of material cost through R&D investment.

Stable and steady investment plan

Kia’s investment outlay from 2020 to 2025 is expected to be KRW 29 trillion. Kia will maintain the annual investment level of around KRW five trillion, reducing the current investment in existing traditional business segments while gradually increasing the proportion of strategic investment for future projects. Furthermore, the company will expand its investment in R&D.

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

The long wheelbase ‘Gran Limousine’ is a new addition to the BMW 3 Series family. It is the long wheelbase version of the BMW 3 Series. It has been launched in India considering the clientele’s preference for long sedans. The new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine offers sportiness, comfort and innovations exclusively for the Indian market.

Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “The 3 Series is the soul of the BMW brand and has won over millions of customers around the world. The ultimate sports sedan has now set the ultimate standard in luxury in a new form – the BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine. With its elongated design, enhanced space, luxurious comfort and dynamic performance, the new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine has a unique and captivating character. It delivers sheer driving pleasure and indulges in superlative luxury, making it a perfect choice for individuals as well as the family. The Gran Limousine has been tailored with an innovative proposition that will attract young, progressive Indians who want a perfect combination of sporty performance and higher practicality for family usage in this segment.”

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

The new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine is available in two attractive design schemes – Luxury Line and the exclusive M Sport ‘First Edition’ which is limited to launch phase only. Luxury Line indulges movement in style and endows elegance. M Sport ‘First Edition’ bestows a masculine character with distinguished M elements evoking the racing spirit. The additional features of M Sport ‘First Edition’ are BMW Head Up Display, BMW Gesture Control, Comfort Access and Surround view cameras with 360 view including top, panorama and 3D view.

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

BMW 330Li Luxury Line – INR 51,50,000

BMW 320Ld Luxury Line – INR 52,50,000

BMW 330Li M Sport ‘First Edition’ – INR 53,90,000

The new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine is available in four metallic paintworks – Mineral White, Melbourne Red, Carbon Black and Cashmere Silver. The choice of upholstery combinations includes Leather Vernasca Cognac | Black and Oyster | Black.

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

Creating a striking front look is the large BMW kidney grille with single surround for the two elements and LED headlights with extended features. BMW’s hallmark sporting prowess is embodied here by short overhangs, a long bonnet and a set-back passenger compartment. The model’s stretched silhouette underscores its inherent elegance and hints at the enviable spaciousness of the interior. A sporty look is created by the slim three-dimensional L- shaped LED taillights along with two large freeform tailpipes.

The interior is designed to accentuate grand cabin spaciousness. The rear doors are 110 mm longer than those of the BMW 3 Series sedan, allowing for an extra 43 mm of legroom in the rear compartment, which sets a new benchmark in the class. The comfort-oriented character is highlighted through improved padding and pampering Vernasca leather upholstery of the rear seats, newly designed headrest and the central armrest between the rear seats. The large 480 litres luggage compartment meets the needs of long distance travel. The automatic tail-gate operation increases access convenience by enabling the boot lid to be opened / closed at the press of a button. The M Sport ‘First Edition’ has Comfort Access which goes a step further and allows completely handsfree operation of the boot lid.

Welcome Light Carpet, projected from the side sill, welcomes passengers in glamorous style. Added to which, the car comes with illuminated door sill plates. The driver and front passenger settle into electrically adjustable Comfort Seats with Sensatec door trim. The driver-focused cockpit includes a sports leather steering wheel in Luxury Line and M leather steering wheel in M Sport ‘First Edition’ with multifunction buttons along with the instrument cluster / control display grouping. The modern design of the centre console with galvanic embellisher adds to the cabin’s premiumness. Filling up the cabin with a sense of spaciousness is the large Panorama sunroof. Ambient Lighting with six dimmable designs creates an atmosphere for every mood. In another model-specific feature, the ambient lighting also includes an illuminated contour strip on the back of the front seats. The three-zone automatic climate control with active carbon filters optimizes air quality. The optimised acoustic properties reduce noise levels and make the journey peaceful.

BMW TwinPower Turbo petrol and diesel engines meld maximum power with exemplary efficiency and offer spontaneous responsiveness even at low engine speeds. The two-litre four-cylinder petrol engine of the BMW 330Li produces an output of 258 hp and maximum torque of 400 Nm at 1,550 – 4,400 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 kmph in just 6.2 seconds. The two-litre four-cylinder diesel engine of the BMW 320Ld produces an output of 190 hp and a maximum torque of 400 Nm at 1,750 – 2,500 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 kmph in just 7.6 seconds.

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

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

The BMW Head-Up Display in M Sport ‘First Edition’ projects driving-related information onto the windscreen and directly into the driver’s field of view. It employs full-colour graphics and provides a wealth of information to the driver without having to divert their eyes from the road. Parking Assistant with Rear View Camera makes parking in tight spots easier. Reversing Assistant provides unmatched support in reversing out of a parking spot or through narrow driveways. It keeps a record of the last 50 metres driven and assists by taking over the steering. The M Sport ‘First Edition’ features surround view cameras with 360view including top view, panorama view and 3D view.

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

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

Tata Motors has announced the launch of the i-Turbo variant along with iRA-connected car technology for its premium hatchback, Altroz. iRA comes with 27 connected car features along with natural voice tech, through which the car understands commands not only in English or Hindi, but also in Hinglish. Additionally, it is India’s first hatchback to introduce What3Words technology – a precise and unique tool that makes navigation easier than before. The Company has also added a new top of the line XZ+ variant in a petrol and diesel fuel option to the Altroz family. The Altroz i-Turbo is launched at an introductory ex-showroom price increment of INR.60, 000 above the Altroz Revotron petrol variants.

Commenting on the launch of the Altroz i-Turbo, Shailesh Chandra – President, Passenger Vehicles Business Unit, Tata Motors said, “We are thrilled to celebrate the 1st anniversary of our premium hatchback Altroz with a double bonanza comprising of the i-Turbo petrol and the new XZ+ variant with iRA-connected car technology in petrol and diesel option. Since the launch in January 2020, Altroz has been appreciated for its paramount safety, innovative design and thrilling performance and we are delighted to share that with its introduction, in FY 21, our market share in the hatchback category has increased by 5.4% compared to last fiscal and we have captured 17% market share in the premium hatch segment. We are confident that the new Altroz range will cater to the evolving needs of the Indian customer, all while creating benchmarks in the segment.”

Powered by the 1.2-litre turbocharged BS6 petrol engine, the Altroz i-Turbo is launched in a new Harbour Blue colour, which is available on variants from XM+. With power of 110 PS @ 5500 rpm, Altroz i-Turbo provides a torque of 140 Nm @1500- 5500 rpm which ensures an enjoyable drive experience. Adding to that, the Sport/City Multi Drive Modes provide the Altroz a perfect combination of thrill and city driving. Altroz in its 2021 avatar will also sport the new black and light grey dual colour interiors accentuated with perforated leatherette seats to enhance its premium quotient.

Furthermore, the Xpress cool feature, personalized screen wallpaper, one shot up power windows, all added to ensure utmost convenience along with the 8 speaker sound system by Harman for an enjoyable surround sound experience, adds to the entire package making it a car that all will desire.

Variants	Fuel	Ex-showroom price
XZ+  Revotron	Petrol	825500
XZ+  Revotorq	Diesel	945500
XT i-Turbo	Petrol	773500
XZ i-Turbo	Petrol	845500
XZ+ i-Turbo	Petrol	885500

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. has set the goal to achieve carbon neutrality across the company’s operations and the life cycle of its products by 2050. As part of this effort, by the early 2030s every all-new Nissan vehicle offering in key markets will be electrified.

Nissan will pursue further innovations in electrification and manufacturing technology to make progress on the company’s carbon neutrality goal in the following strategic areas:

· Battery innovations including solid-state and related technologies to develop cost-competitive and more efficient electric vehicles;

· Further development of Nissan’s e-POWER electrified powertrains to achieve greater energy efficiency;

· Development of a battery ecosystem to support decentralized, onsite power generation for buildings with renewable energy sources. Nissan anticipates increased collaboration with the energy sector to support the decarbonization of power grids;

· Manufacturing process innovations to support higher productivity in vehicle assembly, starting with the Nissan Intelligent Factory initiative. The company will also strive for greater energy and material efficiencies to support longer-term carbon neutrality ambitions.

“We’re determined to help create a carbon neutral society and accelerate the global effort against climate change,” said Nissan CEO Makoto Uchida. “Our offering in electrified vehicles will continue to expand around the world, and this will make a major contribution to Nissan becoming carbon neutral. We will continue to drive innovation that enriches people’s lives as we pursue a sustainable future for all.”

Nissan’s goal builds on its decades-long programs to reduce emissions and provide electric vehicle technologies that benefit the environment and society. The company’s electrification and emissions reduction efforts support the aims of the U.N. Paris Agreement on climate change and global progress toward carbon neutrality by 2050.

Nissan’s ambition also expands upon past initiatives under the Nissan Green Program and the company’s ongoing work to minimize the carbon footprint of its products and operations. The company introduced the world’s first mass-market electric car, the Nissan LEAF, and has sold more than 500,000 of the zero-emission vehicle to date. Nissan also continues to work with industry coalitions and authorities to develop infrastructure and raise public awareness about the benefits of electric vehicles.

With 100% of all-new vehicle offerings to be electrified in the key markets of Japan, China, the U.S. and Europe by the early 2030s, Nissan will also be among the leaders in driving the adoption of electric vehicle technology.

Nissan believes the automotive industry can be a driving force in meeting global environmental and climate needs through a commitment to innovation and impact reduction by collaborating with authorities and partners worldwide. When combined with the expansion of renewable energy and charging infrastructure, vehicle electrification and sustainable operations can help accelerate the arrival of a carbon neutral future.

Citroën in India, has started the commercial production and rolled out the first Citroën C5 Aircross SUV, from its manufacturing facility in Thiruvallur, Tamil Nadu. The flagship SUV is the first product from the Citroën brand for Indian customers and is slated to be launched in this quarter. The start of production of the new Citroën C5 Aircross SUV in India has started after rigorous testing of the vehicle for over 2.5 lakh kilometres in different terrains and varied weather conditions across India.

Commenting on this milestone, Emmanuel Delay, Executive Vice President, Stellantis & Chairman, PCA Automobile India Pvt Ltd & PSA AVTEC Powertrain Pvt Ltd., said, “We are excited to officially rollout the first Citroën C5 Aircross SUV, which will be the first of many differentiating products for India from the brand. There is lot of market anticipation for the new Citroën C5 Aircross SUV, which will set a benchmark in style, comfort and innovation in its segment in India. I would like to congratulate all our employees at the plants who have worked tirelessly to achieve this key milestone despite the challenges posed by the ongoing pandemic. We are looking forward to welcoming the customers to the La Maison Citroën dealership network, which means ‘the home of Citroën’ in a few weeks from now, across key cities of India.”