Nissan India today showcased second teaser of its first compact B-SUV for the Indian market scheduled to be introduced in the first half of 2020-21.

Nissan will launch its first made for India compact SUV on the philosophy of “Make in India, Make for the World”.

Building on Nissan’s global SUV heritage and technology, the new compact SUV is designed as a feature-rich premium offering with stylish design for a dynamic road presence. Nissan’s new SUV features the latest technology as a part of Nissan Intelligent Mobility, the company’s vision as to how vehicles are powered, driven and integrated into society.

The compact SUV is a testimony to Nissan’s global SUV DNA spirit of relentless innovation and Japanese engineering, building on Nissan’s iconic models such as the Patrol, Pathfinder, Armada, X-Trail, Juke, Qashqai and Kicks.

Introduction

In April 2017, Kia Motors signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the State Government of Andhra Pradesh in India, to build a new manufacturing facility in Anantapur District. With a capital investment of 2 billion USD by Kia and its affiliates, the manufacturing facility began production in the second half of 2019 with a production capacity of approximately 300,000 units per year.

In August 2019, the Korean carmaker launched its first product for the Indian market – the Kia Seltos compact SUV. The Seltos took the market by storm. The introduction of Seltos not only marked Kia’s foray into India, but also affirmed their stand that they are here to play hard and win. Since then, the Kia Seltos gone on to become a runaway success, sweeping innumerable awards.

Earlier this year when Kia announced that it will be launching the Carnival MPV at the Auto Expo, quite naturally, the expectations from all quarters were sky high. But will the Carnival be able to deliver on the expectations? Is it worth the price tag it bears? Last month, we were invited to the City of Pearls – Hyderabad, to find out the answers to all the questions that’s reeling on your mind. So buckle up for the ride, because its Carnival time.

Design and Engineering

Standing at 5,115 mm in length and 1985 mm in width, the Kia Carnival is a big car with an imposing road presence. It has a stately appearance that exudes class and is sure to turn heads on the go. The quality of steel, paintwork and other material used on the exterior are impressive which results in this MPV being solidly built. When viewed from the front, the signature tiger nose grille ensures that the Carnival wouldn’t be mistaken for anything other than a Kia. The aesthetically crafted LED headlamp cluster gives the Carnival a distinctive character.

The one-touch power sliding doors and dual panel electric sunroof are absolute delights and will evoke envy from onlookers. The 18-inch sputtering alloy wheels adds to the panache of the Kia Carnival.

Other exterior features include body colour bumper and ORVM, front and rear skid plates, black surround DLO, chrome rear garnish, LED turn signal on ORVM, chrome outside door handle, rear spoiler with LED HMSL, projector bulb type headlamps with escort and anti-fog function, door step plate and the shark fin antenna.

The NVH levels are very well contained with neither the vibration of the diesel pot nor the exterior noise invading the privacy of the passenger cabin. The Kia Carnival is available in three exterior colour options – Aurora Black Pearl, Glacier White Pearl and Steel Silver.

Interior and Comfort

Step inside the Kia Carnival and you will be welcomed by a very tastefully crafted dual-tone black and beige interior. Right from the first glance, the passenger cabin comes across as luxurious, classy and extremely spacious. Be it driving your colleagues for a team brunch, getting away with your family over the weekend or setting out on an adventure with your friends, Kia Carnival comes with versatile seating combinations to make room for everyone and almost everything you need.

The seat are well bolstered with excellent lumbar support. There is adequate head, shoulder and leg room for passenger of the first and second row. The third row is best suited for kids or small built adults. The one-touch powered sliding doors enables effortless ingress and egress for second and third row passengers.

The luxury second row VIP seats are truly indulgent with comfortable leg rest and 10.1-inch touchscreen rear entertainment system. The seat upholstery has been done up with premium Nappa leather that add a touch of class. To maximize comfort, the tri-zone temperature control system enables the driver, front and rear passengers to adjust the temperature and air flow setting as per their preference.

Other create comforts which makes the Kia Carnival a convenient package comprise of the steering mounted audio control, smart pure air purifier, smart power tailgate, power windows with driver one-touch auto down, rear view camera, front armrest with storage box, coat hook, front console and luggage power outlet and USB charging ports, smart key with push start/stop button, day/night rear view mirror, electrically adjustable outside mirror, auto cruise control, auto defogger and diffused rear air conditioner vents.

The Carnival also comes with UVO. With 37 unique features, UVO is the latest evolution in connected car technology and infotainment. It lets you seamlessly connect your smartphone or smartwatch with the Kia Carnival.

Performance and Handling

Doing duty in the Kia Carnival is a 2.2-litre diesel engine mated to 8-speed sportsmatic transmission. The diesel pot responds well to throttle inputs and has a flat torque curve delivering linear power across rev range. Despite the Carnival being a large car, the lightweight BS6 compliant engine seemed adequately powerful churning out 200 PS maximum power and 440 Nm maximum torque. Even while overtaking cars within the city and on the highways, the Carnival chugged along effortlessly leaving the others behind.

The ride quality is impressive owning to an intelligently engineered suspension set up. Even while navigating through the congested and potholed thoroughfares of old Hyderabad, not once was the ride quality compromised with the Kia Carnival absorbing all the undulation of the road with relative ease.

The handling is also commendable with the Kia Carnival inspiring confidence with great traction. Even while cutting corners at relatively high speed, the Carnival remained well planted to the ground with negligible body roll. Kudos to the engineers at Kia for achieving the right balance between handling and ride quality.

Safety

To ensure a high level of safety, the Kia Carnival’s structure is made of high-strength steel and adhesives to provide comprehensive safety, by reducing the impact in the unfortunate event of a crash. The carnival also comes equipped with driver, passenger, side and curtain airbags. In addition to this, it features Electronic Stability Control that helps in controlling brake pressure in changing driving situations like sudden turns, acceleration and braking. Front and rear parking sensors aid to safely manoeuvre and park in peculiar conditions. The Carnival also features the hill start assist control that prevents the vehicle from rolling back during an uphill climb from a static position.

Verdict

The Carnival sits in the pinnacle of Kia’s product portfolio in India. It is stately in appearance, with a classy and spacious interior, and powered by a responsive diesel powertrain which boasts of excellent drivability. The handling and ride quality is brilliant. The one-touch power sliding doors, dual panel electric sunroof, rear VIP seats with leg rest and 10.1-inch touchscreen rear entertainment system puts the Carnival in a league of its own. It is fair to say that the Kia Carnival is presently India’s most luxurious MPV. Quite obviously, all of this luxury comes at a price, which starts at Rs 24.95 lakhs and goes up to Rs 33.95 lakhs (ex-showroom). Anyone who has experienced the comfort of travelling in a Kia Carnival will tell you that it’s worth every penny.

 

MG Motor India today unveiled its luxury SUV Gloster and the luxury MPV G10 at the Auto Expo 2020. Both these cars are headed to the Indian market. Through the showcase, the brand has aimed to highlight how its strong British heritage and rich legacy of innovation provide the perfect platform to deliver future-ready automotive products.

The name ‘Gloster’ pays homage to MG’s British genes. Gloster was a British jet-engine aircraft prototype and the name is a nod to great British engineering. With impressive features, a towering road presence, powerful capability, and luxurious interiors, the Gloster aims to set new benchmarks in the Indian automotive space.

Speaking about the Auto Expo participation, Rajeev Chaba, President & Managing Director – MG Motor India, said, “Auto Expo is the perfect platform for us to unveil our products under consideration for India and also highlight our technology prowess across connected, electric and autonomous. The launch of GLOSTER and G10 will mark our entry in the luxury SUV and MPV segments respectively. We are confident that, with its best-in-class features, specifications and performance, the GLOSTER will be a benchmark for luxury SUVs in India with its launch later this year and G10 will also follow soon”

The luxury full sized MPV G10 is sold globally in markets such as Australia, New Zealand, Middle-East, South American countries including Chile, Peru and ASEAN such as Malaysia. It comes with various seating configurations, panoramic sunroof, touch-free smart sensing rear door and smart automatic sliding doors that deliver a more convenient experience for passengers. With no compromise on comfort, safety and in-cabin space, the G10 will redefine segment benchmarks.

Mercedes-Benz India launched the world’s fastest series production four door coupe and the fastest AMG ever in India, the AMG GT 63S 4MATIC 4 Door Coupe. Alongside, Mercedes-Benz unveiled the highly anticipated AMG A35 4M Limousine. Mercedes-Benz has taken a completely new approach to this particular model, revolutionizing the sedan segment by infusing it with a new feeling of spaciousness. The A-Class Limousine will play a key role in further strengthening Mercedes-Benz’s strong sedan portfolio and will be one of the key products to be introduced in India in 2020. It will appeal to a younger customer base that is looking for a very stylish saloon, with next generation telematics and infotainment systems combined with a high level of performance and plenty of space for passengers and luggage.

Mercedes-Benz also unveiled the sporty and stylish luxury SUV the new GLA, which had its world premiere in December 2019. The new GLA features an iconic design that redefines its class again. It combines masculine off-roader genes with Mercedes-Benz’s philosophy of sensual purity. The new GLA now has even more powerful proportions and stance that compliments its SUV stance.

Also showcased at the 15th edition of the Auto Expo was the all-new generation GLE ‘hip-hop’. Packed with all manner of cutting-edge active driving assistance and the state-of-the-art MBUX user experience multimedia system. It comes equipped with touch and AI-based voice control, which offers an unrivalled urban and off-road SUV experience.

The recently unveiled EQC Edition 1886, meanwhile, gave visitors a glimpse into the ecosystem of services, technologies and innovations around electric mobility that Mercedes-Benz believes will redefine the automotive sector.

Matthias Luehrs, Head Region Overseas, Mercedes-Benz Cars commented “India remains an important emerging market for Mercedes-Benz and the Three Pointed has earned impeccable customer trust that is the hallmark of a fundamentally strong brand. Our customers will be at the core of everything we do and it will be our endeavour to offer them the latest products and technologies and the best retail and customer service experiences.”

Martin Schwenk, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India commented, “The exciting and innovative line-up of products on display underlines our commitment towards our customers. It is also a sign of our confidence in the potential of the country’s automotive sector. As a customer-focused brand, it is extremely satisfying and rewarding to be able to reach out to our customers, both current and potential via this platform, and show them what we have in store for them in 2020 and beyond. The range of products showcased truly reflects the energy within Mercedes-Benz as we aim for another year as No.1 luxury car maker in India.”

Unveiling the showstopper of the Auto Expo, the AMG A 35 4M Limousine, Martin Schwenk added, “The introduction of the A-Class Limousine is a strategic decision that will further enhance our strong sedan segment and win new customers. The A-Class Limousine is the perfect vehicle for young Indians as it is extensively equipped and customizable. We are confident the introduction of the A-Class Limousine will further reinforce Mercedes-Benz’s strong presence in the luxury car market in India and give us an edge.”

The Auto Expo 2020 line-up includes a wide array of attractive cars, which includes:

Launch car:

AMG GT 63 S 4 door coupe – Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S 4MATIC 4 door Coupe, is the world’s fastest series production four-seater. The new AMG GT 4-Door Coupe delivers special driving experiences on all levels and with a top speed of up to 315 kmph and its driving dynamics it cuts an effortlessly superior figure wherever it goes. Powerful, up-to-date 6-cylinder in-line and V8 engines with outputs ranging from 320 kW (435 hp) to 470 kW (639 hp) allow completely new driving experiences and combine impressive performance with modern efficiency. Clearly recognizable as a member of the AMG GT family, the new AMG GT 4-Door Coupe follows the design philosophy of Sensual Purity. It takes the striking proportions with convex surfaces and a muscular body and develops them to exciting effect for a four-door variant of an AMG GT Coupe.

Market unveil:

AMG A 35 4M Limousine – This AMG is a real benchmark in its segment. The new AMG A 35 Limousine expands the AMG portfolio as an attractive entry-level model in every respect. Dynamism, agility and performance – these three attributes characterize the standard all-wheel drive of the new AMG A 35 Limousine. The AMG Performance 4MATIC combines the best possible traction with lots of driving fun. The powerful exterior design adds characteristic AMG elements to the design idiom of the car.

New GLA – Mercedes-Benz new GLA offers more convenience, more safety and is a testament of modern luxury. The profile of the new GLA has changed quite a bit. Compared to its predecessor, it has become taller and shorter. The reason: it only gained in size, where it truly gained in convenience for the passengers. The GLA is the perfect package: spacious, safe and intelligent, as well as efficient and sporty. It features an iconic design that redefines its class again. It combines masculine off-roader genes with our philosophy of sensual purity.

Other showcases:

AMG:

AMG C 43 Coupe – The Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC Coupé is a sporty, suave and unique offering from the AMG line of the C-Class range. A perfect combination of performance and design. The AMGC 43 Coupe, features a suave 2 door coupe design, athletic character and thrilling performance that promises an adrenaline rush every time one gets behind the wheel. The AMG C 43 is the most versatile and most successful model series from Mercedes-AMG. The Coupé is characterized by a sharpened design and stronger differentiation from the AMG Line of the C-Class.

AMG G 63 – The AMG G 63 is the iconic performance off-roader that has remained stronger than time. The new generation Mercedes-AMG G 63 has undergone the greatest change in its history – while remaining true to its well-proven virtues. The G 63 is the original among the performance off-roaders and is the yardstick for all competitors and this is true for the new generation as well. The new AMG G 63 can do everything better than the preceding models, while retaining its core virtues.

Electric car:

EQC 400 4MATIC Edition 1886 – The EQC 400 4MATIC Edition 1886 has an exclusive appeal and high quality look. Carefully coordinated elements on the exterior and interior are among the optional extras for the EQC Edition 1886. The black panel radiator grille with louvres and edging in high-gloss black ensure a particularly exclusive character on the exterior. The ‘EQC Edition 1886’ is available exclusively in metallic high-tech silver. Further individual features include the high-gloss black badge with ‘EQC Edition 1886’ lettering on the mudguard and the 10-spoke 20-inch light-alloy wheels in high-gloss black with white decorative elements.

Sedans:

Mercedes-Maybach – Mercedes-Maybach stands for exclusive luxury, maximum comfort and state-of-art technology in automotive engineering, services and accessories. . It is seen as a trailblazer in defining style and status. Combining the latest technology with extraordinary luxury: in a nutshell, this is the formula for the success of the Maybach brand. A number of events in the history of Maybach illustrate how the brand has always managed to realign itself and shape the future. The Maybach is produced and presented with craftsman-like perfection and uncompromising attention to detail. They stand for timeless luxury and status, always accompanied by the history and strengths of the Maybach name.

New E-Class – The E-Class remains the most popular luxury sedan for Mercedes-Benz India. E-Class is the highest selling luxury executive sedan in India. E-Class in its 10th generation, is a comprehensive luxury business sedan that intelligently blends driving performance with unmatched luxury and comfort, boasting of the ‘most spacious’ rear cabin in the segment. The E-Class its rich history spanning over two decades, is one of the main pillars of MB’s product offensive. The E-Class is the most adored business sedan that has carved a niche of its own in a rather prestigious segment. The E-Class will fulfill the desire for individual seeking driving performance, while ensuring it presents the most luxurious rear cabin experience, comprising unparalleled luxury appointments, for those preferring to be chauffeur driven.

MB Certified C-Class – The C-Class remains at the most powerful product in Mercedes-Benz portfolio. The fifth generation C-Class is one of the most popular executive saloons. The C-Class combines luxury with a progressive design dynamics, luxury appointments, state-of-art multimedia system and safety features. The C-Class sets a high benchmark in the luxury sedan segment – underlines the positioning of Never Stop Improving. C-Class is loaded with a variety of technologies and features that enhance driving pleasure, and offer unmatched luxury.

SUVs:

New long wheelbase GLE – Mercedes-Benz GLE is the SUV trendsetter – Topped up with a wealth of innovations. The new GLE boasts of the latest technology to be offered in an SUV on Indian roads. The SUV combines excellent on and off-road driving characteristics with an interior which is even more spacious and comfortable. This combination of strength and intelligence positions the GLE as – ‘Strength. Born out of intelligence’. The GLE exhibits iconic Mercedes-Benz design while remaining true to its character as an off-roader. The interior derives its fascination from the contrast between the luxurious and elegant design and the digital high-tech of our MBUX system.

New GLC – The GLC offers the best from the world of Mercedes-Benz SUV line-up. The New GLC is targeted at customers who are urban dwellers who are tech savvy at the same time are adrenaline seekers. GLC is the tech savvy SUV in the Mercedes-Benz locally made SUV line up. The GLC is an excellent SUV, which combines outstanding on and off-road driving characteristics with spaciousness, practicality and comfort. The GLC is an illustration of excellent artisanship of high quality materials in combination with a classy and authentic design that attracts immediate attention.

Rajeev Chaba, President & Managing Director, MG Motor India at the Auto Expo

MG Motor India has today showcased the future of mobility with a huge line-up of global products – including the Marvel X, the world’s first mass-production model to achieve Level-3 Intelligent Driving – at Auto Expo 2020. Through the product showcase, the brand has reiterated its strong commitment to the Indian market and highlighted its focus on future-ready innovation.

Marvel X is part of MG’s focus on developing cutting-edge products with integrated Internet, Electric, and Autonomous capabilities. Its augmented reality (AR) maps, for instance, make navigation more precise and visual – allowing the vehicle to autonomously find a parking bay and park itself. The showcase highlights MG’s strong technological leadership with a product that is already on the road in key international markets.

Similarly, the Vision-i Concept is touted as “the world’s first 5G zero-screen smart cockpit” and is being developed as a category-defining vehicle that will be the best carrier for 5G travelling scenarios. The futuristic concept car comes equipped with multiple handsfree driving modes such as education, leisure, driving, sleeping or meeting.

At Auto Expo 2020, the carmaker showcased a total of 14 internet, electric and autonomous cars across hatchback, sedans, and utility vehicle segments. Participating for the first time at the prestigious industry event, the showcase helped MG demonstrate its technological prowess and global position as a future-forward brand.

MG Motor has the capability to introduce some of these technologies in the next few years in the Indian market.

Speaking about the Auto Expo participation, Rajeev Chaba, President & Managing Director, MG Motor India, said, “We are delighted with the reception received for our cutting-edge products. MG’s vision for the future of mobility is connected, tech-driven, and sustainable, and products showcased are a testament to our commitment to enabling this vision.”

“Having successfully introduced category-leading products such as the HECTOR and the ZS EV in the Indian market, the showcase of 14 global products across different categories is aimed at giving consumers and industry stakeholders a glimpse of the excitement and innovation that the future holds,” Mr. Chaba added.

Designed to reflect its strong British lineage and its future-ready brand ethos, the MG pavilion at the Auto Expo came with various engagement options for visitors, such as the MG Carffe and an accessories and merchandise section. It also featured a dedicated segment for “i-SMART” – the technology that powers the Hector, and the ZS EV, India’s first pure electric internet SUV.

Skoda Auto India hosted the world static premiere of the Vision IN. The mid-size SUV concept study, designed and developed under the Skoda Auto led ‘INDIA 2.0’ project of the Volkswagen Group is based on the MQB A0 IN platform. The Czech marque also showcased the flagship SUV Kodiaq 2.0 TSI, the new Karoq 1.5 TSI, the Laurin and Klement as well as the Sportline variants of the facelifted Superb, the powerful Octavia RS 245, and the Monte Carlo and the Matte Concept of the Rapid 1.0 TSI. To commemorate its 125 year anniversary, Skoda Auto also presented the luxurious 1948 Superb OHV.

Commenting on the occasion, Zac Hollis, Brand Director, Skoda Auto India said, “This is a very special year for the Skoda Auto family. We are celebrating our 125 year anniversary. The Vision IN having drawn its inspiration from this rich history and heritage blurs the line between beauty and functionality. It is a vehicle tailored to meet the needs and aspirations of the Indian subcontinent and testifies an interplay of the Czech Bohemian glass work as well as the traditional Kalamkari art. We are confident that this mid-size SUV, when launched in 2021, will be a top contender for prospective buyers and will garner substantial market share in the segment in which it operates. Through the product offensive campaign, increased geographical presence, innovative brand awareness programs and numerous customer centric service initiatives, we are focusing on strengthening the brand in India.”

VISION IN

Featuring a distinctive front and large bonnet, the Vision IN’s Skoda SUV family resemblance is clear at first glance. The wide Skoda grille features striking double slats; both the frame and the slats are made of lead crystal, and their elegance is additionally enhanced by eye-catching LED illumination. The two-part LED headlights also exhibit crystalline structures. In the upper part, which reaches as far as the Skoda grille, stunning glass elements create the LED dipped beam, LED high beam and an L-shaped LED module for the daytime running lights and indicators. The LED fog lights are arranged below this. The upper section of the sculpted bumper has been given added depth, is body-coloured and incorporates a wide, crystalline, mesh-effect air inlet. The lower section consists of a rugged, aluminium front spoiler.

The straight roof line with panoramic glass roof and buffed aluminium roof rails conveys a sporty appearance. A three-dimensional tornado line makes the vehicle look longer, while the powerful wheel arches make it appear brawny and self-assured on the road. This impression is reinforced by the car’s bold, sculptured plastic side trims in matt anthracite; 19-inch alloy wheels with polished surfaces create a manifold of light and shade effects. The side profile of the chrome framed windows extends all the way to the D-pillar and, exhibiting a slanted rear window and ‘Skoda’ in block lettering, the rear is powerful and uncluttered. Razor-sharp, L-shaped LED tail lights together with horizontal reflectors form the ŠKODA-typical ‘C’ of the light cluster. A crystalline strip of light between the reflectors provides yet another visual touch, further splitting the rear into individual sections and lending it a more structured overall appearance; a rugged aluminium diffuser completes the lower section.

The interior of the Vision IN concept study is characterised by the new Skoda design language. The elongated dashboard picks up the symmetrical contours of the Skoda radiator grille and incorporates air vents featuring the brand-typical SUV design. The Skoda designers have also broken new ground when devising the decorative trim that adorns the dashboard and have drawn inspiration from Indian culture. The decor pays homage to the traditional Indian textile printing technique, in which classic motifs are printed onto fabric using handmade East Indian rosewood stamps. At the same time, the characteristic Skoda crystal seam on the dashboard and door panels as well as decorative armrest trims made of genuine crystal make reference to the traditional Czech art of glass cutting. An all-new crystal button on the dashboard acts as a bridge to the modern world: using this button, the driver can communicate with the infotainment system’s digital assistant in the same way they would if they were using the free standing 12.3 inch (31.24 cm) central screen.

The Vision IN’s modern technological comforts also include the individually configurable Virtual Cockpit and shift-by-wire technology. The gear selector is no longer connected to the 7 speed DSG mechanically. Instead, it relays which gear has been chosen electronically. The classic selector lever has been replaced with a small rocker switch for operation. The convenient electromechanical parking brake means the familiar handbrake lever is also no longer required. This creates a new sense of spaciousness and makes it possible to keep the centre console much smaller and tidier. The gained space resulting from this has – in typical, ‘Simply Clever’ Skoda fashion – been used for several new storage compartments. The three spoke steering wheel is another important component of the new interior concept.

Alongside wood and natural leather, the Vision IN also makes use of vegan as well as recycled materials. The floor mats are made of Pinatex, for example. Pineapple leather, as it is also known, is a leather like fabric made from waste pineapple leaves. The concept study’s roof lining is made from recycled plastic fibres and – owing to the transition from black to orange that is drawn across the entire roof – provides another distinctive visual highlight.

The Skoda Vision IN concept study is 4,256 mm long and has a wheelbase of 2,671 mm; its height is 1,589 mm. The Vision IN is powered by a modern and efficient petrol engine. The 1.5 TSI delivering 110 kW (150 PS) transfers its maximum torque of 250 Nm to the front wheels via a 7 speed DSG. It takes the concept study 8.7 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph. Its top speed is 195 kmph. The Vision IN features 7.5J×19 alloy wheels fitted with 235/45 R19 tyres.

Hyundai Motor has teased the all-new i20, indicating that it will feature a completely new design and that it will be the first car in Europe to carry Hyundai’s new design language: ‘Sensuous Sportiness’.

Sensuous Sportiness is characterised by the harmony between four fundamental elements: proportion, architecture, styling and technology. The purpose of this design direction is to bring instinctive beauty to Hyundai vehicles, creating emotional value and giving them a distinctive look.

The preview images show that the all-new i20 will have a more sporty and dynamic look. The cascading grille in the front running horizontally to the sides results in the characteristic wide and low body. Also the unique lighting signature underlines the width and the stance of the all-new i20. The bold character line on the side of the body emphasizes the car’s sporty proportions and agility. The rear is complemented with a horizontal tail lamp design which is seamlessly connected with the rear glass.

The horizontal blades covering the dashboard are a real icon of the all-new i20 interior. The slick treatment emphasises the width of the front fascia and neatly disguises the air vents. To further enhance the elegance and the aesthetics of the interior, the new digital cluster and the main centre fascia have been combined together and feature two 10.25-inch screens.

The all-new i20 will be revealed at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2020.

Tata Motors today announced the commencement of bookings for its Harrier BSVI range, with the introduction of the much- awaited Harrier automatic transmission variants.

The all new Harrier range will be powered by the next generation Kryotec 170 diesel engine churning out 170 PS of maximum power. The new Tata Harrier will also be available in a new calypso red colour and new stylish aerodynamic outer mirrors. Continuing with Tata Motors commitment to offer the safe cars, Harrier will now come equipped with ESP across all variants.

Harrier will now also be available with a new top- of the- line XZ+/ XZA+ trim, which consists of a host of features like panoramic sunroof, 6-way powered driver seat with adjustable lumbar support, auto dimming rear view mirrors and two-tone diamond cut R17 alloys making it an attractive package for the Harrier customers.

The automatic range comes equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission and will be available in three variants – XMA, XZA and XZA+.

Commenting on this launch, Mr. Vivek Srivatsa, Head – Marketing, Passenger Vehicles Business Unit, Tata Motors, said, “We are delighted to bring the highly anticipated Tata Harrier automatic transmission to our customers alongwith the Harrier BSVI range. In line with our philosophy of going beyond BSVI, we are offering a host of technical, safety and design upgrades on the Harrier. With the introduction of this new range, Harrier is ready to set new benchmarks and deliver a segment-leading performance. We are confident that this new feature addition will lure more customers in the coming days.”

The Harrier, which is built on the OMEGARC, derived from Land Rover’s legendary D8 platform, is a combination of contemporary design and dynamic performance. Powered by the next generation Kryotec170 Diesel engine and advanced terrain response modes, Harrier assures a promising performance on the toughest of terrains.

 

The all-new Kia Sorento will make its world premiere at the 2020 Geneva International Motor Show.

Designed and engineered to take on everything life can throw at it, the fourth generation of Kia Motors Corporation’s flagship global SUV is the latest addition to the brand’s reinvigorated SUV line-up. The first vehicle based on Kia’s new-generation midsize SUV platform, the Sorento raises standards in its segment for practicality, offering space on a par with larger vehicles. The new model also marks the first-time adoption of hybrid power in the Sorento line-up.

Kia is targeting the global SUV market by applying a range of innovations to the new Sorento, including advanced driver assistance systems and progressive connectivity and infotainment features.

A mainstay of Kia’s global line-up, more than three million Sorento models have been sold worldwide since it was launched in 2002. The all-new Kia Sorento will be revealed for the first time on March 3, 2020.

 

Mr Sharad Agarwal, Head, Lamborghini India at the launch of Lamborghini Huracan EVO-RWD in Kolkata.

Automobili Lamborghini unveiled the Huracan EVO Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): a visceral driving machine, delivering 610hp (449 kW) of power at 8,000 rpm and 560 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm to a lightweight car with rear-wheel drive and dynamic steering for maximum driving fun. Weighing just 1,389 kg, the Huracan EVO RWD has a top speed of 325 kmph and accelerates from 0 to 100 kmph in 3.3 seconds. Despite its top-figure capabilities, the Huracan EVO RWD is not focused on straight-line speeds or lap records: with a unique new design, the Huracan EVO RWD proclaims its designation as an instinctive driver’s car.

Mr. Sharad Agarwal, Head, Lamborghini India said, “We are excited to announce Huracán EVO RWD in India, right after its global launch. Taking the Huracan legacy forward, the new vehicle dynamics have been developed and refined to produce a car whose performance relies on the harmony between man and machine: driving skills and the Huracán EVO’s RWD mechanics deliver perfectly balanced dynamics, physical feedback and a pure performance. As the driver, you exercise greater control over the car to form a unique and intimate bond: Rewind to Rear-Wheel Drive means a return to the origins of mechanical purity, the true essence of a Lamborghini. The Huracan EVO RWD embodies the most high-tech return to these origins, and it is dedicated to those who know they cannot do without technology but embrace the thrill of driving and the joy it can offer.”

The V10 engine delivers more than just power to the rear-wheel drive set-up: the sound of the naturally aspirated power plant combines with the specially tuned traction control system to deliver the most emotive, fun-to-drive experience in both dry and wet conditions, and even snow. The new Performance Traction Control System (P-TCS) is calibrated specifically for the rear-wheel drive Huracan EVO, delivering torque even during the phase where the car is realigning following drifting or side-slipping.

Whereas a ‘normal’ traction control system delivers a sharp decoupling, waiting for a car to become completely stable before delivering torque again, the P-TCS car delivers torque in advance, avoiding a harsh torque cut and assuring better traction when exiting a corner.

The P-TCS intervention is calibrated according to the Huracan EVO RWD’s driving modes, selected via the steering wheel’s ANIMA button (Adaptive Network Intelligent Management: ‘soul’ in Italian). In Strada, the P-TCS minimizes rear wheel slippage to ensure stability and safety in all conditions: with a more proactive strategy P-TCS manages torque delivery on low-adhesion surfaces.

In Sport mode, the P-TCS maximizes the fun-to-drive experience: the rear wheels can slide and skate during acceleration, for easy drifting fun without compromising safety. The system recognizes conditions where the angle of over steer increases rapidly and limits torque delivery to the rear wheels, allowing the driver to perfectly control and stabilize the car.

In Corsa, the P-TCS is calibrated to achieve the rear-wheel slip that optimizes the car’s traction and agility when exiting a corner, allowing the driver to maximize performance. The P-TCS improves smoothness of intervention by 30 per cent compared to the previous Huracan RWD model; improves corner-exit traction by 20 per cent and enhances over steer by 30 per cent.

The Huracan EVO RWD’s hybrid chassis integrates lightweight aluminum and carbon fiber with an aluminum and thermoplastic resin body, with a total dry weight of 1,389 kg giving a weight-to-power ratio of 2.28 kg/hp. With front/rear weight distribution of 40/60, the Huracan EVO RWD sits on double wishbone suspension with overlapped quadrilaterals and passive shock absorbers. The electro-mechanical, servo-assisted Lamborghini Dynamic Steering (LDS) is tuned specifically for the Huracan EVO RWD, ensuring maximum feedback. The seven-speed dual clutch gearbox ensures the fastest gear changes, with launch control for maximum acceleration from a standing start. The 19-inch Kari rims with specially-developed Pirelli P Zero tyres are fitted with ventilated and cross-drilled steel brakes. As an option 20-inch rims and carbo-ceramic brakes are available.

The Huracan EVO RWD continues the V10 Lamborghini’s powerful design with new front and rear features, clearly differentiating it from its Huracan EVO 4WD stablemate. The Huracan EVO RWD is characterized by a sculpted, purposeful persona, complemented by a new front splitter and vertical fins within the larger, framed front air intakes. The rear bumper in high gloss black incorporates a new diffuser unique to the Huracan EVO RWD.

Inside, the cockpit features a HMI 8.4-inch touch screen in the centre console of the car, controlling all aspects of the car’s functions as well as managing full connectivity such as telephone calls, internet access, and including Apple Car Play.

Both inside and out, Lamborghini’s Ad Personam program provides unsurpassed options for colour and trim personalization, allowing owners of the Huracan EVO RWD to impose their individual style and personality on their new Lamborghini driving machine. In order to emphasize the shape of the car the new colour, Giallo Belenus (yellow), has been developed together with a dedicated leather and Alcantara colour for the interior trim, matching the new exterior paint.

The Lamborghini Huracan EVO RWD price starts from Rs 3.22 Cr (Ex-Showroom) PAN India.