In the vote, which took place on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, Dragon Skin narrowly edged out Storm Blue and Tangerine Orange to be chosen as the brand’s newest colour. Dragon Skin will be added as an option alongside two other colours that were chosen in a poll conducted last year. Waterworld Green and Space Violet were voted as favourites by vRS fans in the 2025 poll, defeating Hot Chilli Red and Plum Blue in the process.
Dragon Skin will now be offered as an exclusive paint finish on both hatch and estate variants of the Octavia vRS, adding even more visual drama to the performance-focused model. Orders open from 4 March 2026, priced at £855. The addition of Dragon Skin paint reinforces the Octavia vRS’s long-standing blend of everyday usability, strong performance and distinctive styling, now with even greater opportunity for owners to stand out on the road.
In addition to being offered on the Octavia vRS from March 4, Dragon Skin will also be introduced as a paint option on a limited-run of 130 Octavia SportLine models later this year. These will also be offered with Škoda’s three most recently introduced exclusive paint finishes: Waterworld Green, Space Violet and Royal Green. More details regarding ordering and production of these models will be announced later this year.
Celebrating 30 years since its modern debut, the Škoda Octavia has become the model that reshaped Škoda Auto. When it arrived in 1996, it offered space, practicality and value that challenged established rivals, helping change public perception of Škoda from budget outsider to smart, dependable choice.
As the company’s line-up expanded and its reputation grew, the Octavia remained the backbone of the range, becoming a benchmark for value and practicality. Now in its fourth generation, the Octavia continues to evolve with advanced technology and ever more efficient drivetrains, along with the qualities that made it successful in the first place: sector-best practicality and sensible pricing. Three decades on, the Octavia stands as the model that transformed the brand’s fortunes and continues to carry its reputation forward.
The all-new BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro was launched in India at an ex-showroom price of INR 74,50,000. Locally produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai, this new petrol variant of the BMW X3 can be booked at all BMW dealerships across the country from today onwards.
The all-new X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro further bolsters the X3 portfolio in India, joining the existing xDrive 20 petrol and xDrive 20d diesel variants to offer a comprehensive range of performance-led choices for customers.
Mr. Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India said, “The BMW X3 has always been the definitive choice for those who seek a perfect blend of luxury and versatility. With introduction of the new BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro, we are taking that legacy to an enhanced level of performance and presence. Power attracts power, and the new X3 30 delivers exactly that pairing a more aggressive engine with refined luxury to create a truly spirited driving experience. With this new addition, we have further expanded the X3 offering in India to cater to our modern, performance-driven customers who demand more.”
The design language of the all-new BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro gives the car a monolithic overall appearance. The exterior design is characterised by expansive surfaces and precise contours. It’s dimensions – length: 4,755 mm and wheelbase: 2,865 mm – make it the longest car in its segment. With a width of 1,920 mm and a height of 1,660 mm, the all-new X3 is also the widest and tallest car in its segment. The front end exudes great presence courtesy of its upright stature and, most notably, the large fully black BMW kidney grille with iconic glow illumination. The best-in-class adaptive LED headlights with high beam assistant and cornering lights result in peak performance and safety in low-visibility conditions. The adaptive LED lights are based on a projector lamp setup, offering much better performance than the traditionally used reflector lights. The headlights are complimented by the M lights shadow line which adds a sporty black tint making for an imposing front fascia. The M aerodynamic package with larger air intakes in the front apron guarantee an elegantly sporty appearance. Completing the exterior’s dynamic look are the standard 20-inch M alloy wheels, along with larger M Sport brakes in red with improved braking performance that create a powerful visual statement even at a standstill.
The car’s sporty silhouette features an elongated bonnet and a long wheelbase as well as a rising window graphic and a signature Hofmeister kink. The roof rails and the integrated roof spoiler in high gloss black underscore the vehicles’ athletic and adventurous character. The large wheel arches have a subtly squared-off outline in typical BMW X model style. The all-new BMW X3 30 also comes with flush-fitting door handles. The familiar BMW X proportions acquire a sporting flavour thanks to the long roofline extending deep into the rear end. The darkened split rear lights have a double L-shape lend a more assertive and modern presence to the vehicle. The rear diffuser in high gloss black enhances the bold appearance when seen from behind.
An expressive design and high-quality materials characterise the interior of the all-new BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro. The highly minimalist design lends the interior a particularly clean and modern look. The progressive and sophisticated ambience inside goes hand in hand with generous amounts of space and modern versatility for everyday use, leisure activities and trips away. The interpretation of the familiar BMW X cockpit design is shaped by the driver-oriented BMW curved display and the striking geometry of surfaces and innovative design features. The fully digital screen grouping is composed of a 12.3-inch information display and a 14.9-inch control display. The new instrument panel, elegantly wrapped in sensatec, brings a refined, high-quality finish to the cabin of the all-new BMW X3 30, enhancing the interior’s premium ambiance. Other design features include the standard BMW interaction bar integrated below the control display with control panels for the airflow and for switching on hazard warning lights, as well as the light elements in a contrasting colour that can be found in the centre console and in the front section of the door trim in both the front and rear. These form the basis for a dramatic lighting effect that further accentuates the three-dimensional character of the cockpit design. The lighting concept is further refined by the integral jewelry box located ahead of the gear selector, which uses ambient accents to spotlight stored items and reinforce the cabin’s premium feel. The all-new X3 30 also comes with a fully customizable head-up display as standard.
The M steering wheel comes with flatbottomed rims as well as control buttons providing haptic feedback. Standard shift paddles are available for manual interventions in the eight-speed steptronic transmission’s gear selection process. The sports seats come with active seat ventilation for front passengers. They also offer lumbar adjustment and backrest width adjustment for the driver, a feature unique to BMW X3. The sport seats are lapped in vegan leather ‘Veganza’ made with sustainable materials. The largest-in-segment panoramic glass sunroof gives an exceptionally elegant appearance and creates a light and airy feel inside the cabin. Travel & Comfort System, offered as standard, enables users to connect their devices to the car for a seamless entertainment experience. Rear windows also get roller sunblinds for extra privacy and protection from direct sunlight. The Harman Kardon surround sound system with 15 speakers and 750 watts of audio power provides an intense musical feast for the ears.
Thanks to BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, the X3 30 xDrive’s engine melds maximum power with exemplary efficiency and offer spontaneous responsiveness even at low engine speeds. The 2-litre 4-cylinder in-line petrol engine produces an output of 258 hp and maximum torque of 400 Nm at 1,600 – 4,600 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 kmph in just 6.3 seconds. Customers also get the sport boost function for exceptionally rapid bursts of speed as well as the sport plus mode for most dynamic handling characteristics. The all-new X3 30 xDrive comes with a 48V technology as standard which significantly improves performance as well as efficiency. The 48V technology results in remarkably instantaneous response to the slightest movement of the accelerator – when pulling away and also when putting in a sudden burst of speed – as well as more comfortable operation of the automatic start / stop function.
Adaptive suspension with electronically controlled dampers is also offered as standard. It automatically adjusts damper response to the prevailing driving situation and current driving style, with a choice of two settings depending on the my mode selected. This means sport mode activates optimal damper responses for dynamic handling, creating a noticeable contrast to the more comfort-oriented damper setting in the other my modes. Adaptive suspension combines excellent handling with supreme driving safety and allows the vehicle to be effortlessly controlled up to the limit. This has the effect of maximising not just the comfort and agility of the vehicle, but also its handling precision.
The all-new BMW X3 comes with the latest version of BMW iDrive with QuickSelect to provide intuitive, easy control. Its home screen shows vertically arranged function icons on the same level. The QuickSelect feature allows functions to be activated directly without having to enter a submenu. The new BMW iDrive is geared squarely to touch and voice control. It is based on the latest BMW Operating System 9, which also paves the way for a customisable selection of additional digital services. The all-new BMW X3 offers the best and latest of BMW ConnectedDrive services with BMW Digital Premium.
MyBMW App functions include popular options for keeping an eye on the current vehicle status at all times. The innovative BMW digital key plus services turn any smartphone into a car key and can be transferred up to 18 additional users, along with their personal vehicle settings. One can remotely lock / unlock and configure top speed, engine power, audio and more. Wireless Apple CarPlay® / Android Auto for smartphone opens up access to a range of functions and apps. In addition, customers can use the MyBMW app to generate BMW digital key plus, which turns a smartphone into a digital vehicle key. It will enable customers to physically open the doors when unlocking them this way.
The spread of BMW Connected Drive and Driver Assistance Systems that support comfort and safety are more extensive than ever. The all-new BMW X3 now comes with Driving Assistant Plus as standard which includes some best-in-class features like Active Cruise Control (with Stop&Go Function), Lane Departure Warning, Lane keep assistant and much more. Parking Assistant Plus offers the highest degree of technology and accessibility to smart parking systems in the segment with features such as fully automated parking with surround view camera and segment first features such as BMW Reversing Assistant and BMW Drive Recorder.
BMW EfficientDynamics includes features such as 8-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission, Auto Start-Stop, ECO PRO mode, Brake-Energy Regeneration, Electronic Power Steering, 50:50 Weight Distribution and many other innovative technologies.
BMW xDrive, the intelligent all-wheel drive technology, monitors the driving situation and is quick to respond to ensure maximum traction, agility and vehicle stability. Electronically controlled ‘Automatic Differential Brakes/Locks’ (ADB-X), extended ‘Dynamic Traction Control’ (DTC), Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control help to conquer every terrain.
BMW Safety includes eight airbags, Attentiveness Assistance, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including Cornering Brake Control (CBC), electric parking brake with auto hold, side-impact protection, electronic vehicle immobilizer with crash sensor and child seat mounting.
JSW MG Motor India has showcased the MG Majestor, its all-new offering as India’s First D+ SUV. After breaking cover at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, the Majestor now claims centre stage as MG’s most rugged, durable, and premium SUV tailored for the Indian roads and beyond. Built for peak performance and to deliver commanding road presence and all-terrain performance, premium comfort, and advanced safety, the Majestor showcases cutting-edge 4×4 prowess raising the bar with segment-leading innovations, luxury features, top-tier safety, and enduring build quality.
Commenting on the occasion, Anurag Mehrotra, Managing Director, JSW MG Motor India, said, “India’s premium SUV customer is evolving rapidly, looking not just for space, but for a vehicle that projects stature, inspires confidence, and integrates seamlessly into a more ambitious lifestyle. With MG MAJESTOR, we have created an SUV that is rugged in its capability, refined in its comfort, and dependable in its engineering. MAJESTOR for us represents our vision of what a true, full-size SUV should stand for, which is a commanding presence, sophisticated premium craftsmanship, intelligent in technology, and uncompromising in performance.”
Exterior
Resting on a massive 2950 mm wheelbase, the Majestor asserts dominance at the longest (5046mm), widest (2016mm), and tallest (1870mm) – unmatched in class. Its Mosaic Matrix Combination Grille, Dragon Eyes DRLs, split headlamps, connected LED tail lamps with sequential turn signals, raised hood line, and 19-inch alloy wheels amplify a bold, upright, rugged profile. Yet, it maintains a sophisticated, premium aesthetic that turns heads on city streets or highways.
Interior
Step inside for an expansive haven in black theme with plush leather and sleek centre console. Driver and co-driver seats are ventilated, offer massage function, memorize positions, and can be adjusted in multiple ways (12-way driver, 8-way passenger). A panoramic sunroof floods light, while 64-colour ambient lighting sets the mood. Three-zone AC ensures personalized comfort.
Flexible in 6- or 7-seater configurations, it suits families or adventurers. Dual 12.3-inch displays (instrument cluster and infotainment) support wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay. Immersive 12-speaker JBL sound, dual wireless chargers, 220V outlet, and 75+ iSMART connected features underline a tech-forward, luxurious drive every time.
Off-Road Capabilities
At the heart of the Majestor lies true SUV engineering, powered by a 2.0-litre twin-turbo diesel engine that churns best-in-segment power at 215.5 PS and 478.5 Nm torque mated to 8-speed AT (Automatic Transmission) in both 2WD and advanced 4WD.The Advanced 4WD system with 10 off-road modes balances worlds – on-road ease, off-road might.
In Auto Mode, the vehicle intelligently operates in 2WD during regular driving conditions and automatically switches to 4WD the moment it detects loss of traction. This ensures better fuel efficiency during daily use while delivering enhanced off-road capability exactly when required. This intelligent mode is particularly effective in conditions such as rain, snow, and slippery surfaces which require higher speeds.
Further strengthening its rugged credentials, the Majestor becomes the first in the segment to offer front, rear, and centre differential locks, enabling it to pull itself out of extreme situations even when one or more wheels lose traction or lift off the ground. Supported by Crawl Control Mode, 219 mm ground clearance, and an 810 mm water wading capability. The Majestor is engineered for durability and reliability across the toughest terrains.
Safety
Safety remains a core pillar of the MG Majestor. The SUV is equipped with Level 2 ADAS, providing assisted steering, braking, and acceleration for enhanced driver confidence across conditions. Apart from this it is also equipped with a host of safety features like 360 Degree HD Camera, Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), integrating Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), and Roll Movement Intervention (RMI).
The MG Majestor will be offered in Sharp and Savvy variants across 2WD and 4WD drivetrains, in Pearl White, Concrete Grey, Metal Black, and Metal Ash. With the Majestor, JSW MG Motor India brings together rugged capability, uber premiumness, intelligent technology, and long-term reliability in one cohesive SUV, setting a new benchmark for large premium SUVs in India.
Peace-of-Mind
As part of MG’s Complete Peace of Mind Program, Majestor comes with an industry-leading 5-5-5 offering comprising 5 Year Unlimited KM Warranty, 5 Year Road-side Assistance, and 5 Labour-Free Services. Additionally, through a strategic partnership with ICICI Bank, customers will receive an exclusive invite for the ICICI Emeralde Credit Card at zero joining fee*. Early customers will also benefit from Priority Deliveries, access to Exclusive Previews across select cities in March 2026, and Invite-only Experiential Drives curated specially for Majestor owners.
The MG Majestor is available for pre-booking for a booking amount of INR 41,000 while full range pricing and market availability will be announced closer to launch.
JSW MG Motor India today announced that the MG Majestor, India’s first D+ segment SUV, has successfully conquered Mount Japfü, the second-highest peak in Nagaland. Situated in the Barail Range near Kohima, Mount Japfü is known for its extreme off road trails, rich biodiversity, panoramic views, and for being home to the world’s tallest rhododendron tree.
As part of advanced testing and validation trials, the MG Majestor navigated steep inclines, rocky trails, narrow forest paths, and constantly changing surfaces, highlighting its off-road capability and terrain management systems. The drive involved sustained manoeuvring across challenging gradients, testing the SUV’s performance in real-world extreme conditions.
Commenting on the achievement, Vinay Raina, Chief Commercial Officer, JSW MG Motor India, said,“ MG has consistently been a trend setter in the Indian market, introducing products that redefine expectations in their respective segments. With the MG MAJESTOR, we are introducing the D+ segment — a new space for big, capable SUVs built to handle real-world conditions. The climb to Mount Japfü highlighted the MAJESTOR’s engineering, showcasing its capability, control, and readiness for some of India’s toughest terrains. During our trial runs, the MG MAJESTOR dominated the challenging off road terrains, reflecting the depth of engineering, rigorous testing, and capability that has gone into developing India’s first D+ segment SUV for real-world driving conditions.”
The expedition was supported by the Kohima Adventure Motorsports Club (KAMC), whose expertise and understanding of the region’s demanding terrain played a key role in enabling the drive. The MG engineering team was also present during the drive, using the opportunity to closely evaluate different drive modes, traction behaviour, and overall off-road dynamics across varied terrain profiles.
Commenting on the expedition, Seyievilie Metha, President of the Kohima Adventure Motorsports Club said,“Mount Japfü is a demanding climb with steep gradients, loose surfaces, and narrow trails that test both driver skill and vehicle capability. Our group has years of experience navigating some of the toughest terrains in and around Nagaland, and we know how unforgiving these conditions can be. The MG MAJESTOR handled the ascent with confidence, maintaining control and stability throughout the climb. Its ability to manage difficult terrain so effectively reflects strong engineering and a clear focus on real-world off-road performance.”
The successful ascent of Mount Japfü reinforces JSW MG Motor India’s approach to developing vehicles that are engineered and validated beyond controlled environments. Ahead of its unveil on February 12, 2026, this milestone underlines the MG Majestor’s positioning as India’s first D+ segment SUV. With its longest, widest, and tallest dimensions, the MG Majestor will redefine the regular D segment and set to dominate some of the country’s toughest landscapes.
Renault India has unveiled the new Renault Duster, marking the return of a nameplate that helped establish the mid-size SUV category in the country.
New Renault Duster marks the first product unveil under Renault Group’s International Game Plan in India, where the brand is prioritising targeted investment and product expansion as part of a broader global strategy.
“As part of the Renault International Game Plan 2027, we are making India a key pillar of our growth outside Europe. We now have a strong ecosystem in Chennai, bringing together design, engineering, manufacturing, and local operations at the highest level – making India one of the most complete and powerful hubs in Renault’s global network. Today, we have the means to fully support our ambitions in India, to better understand customer expectations, and to deliver products truly adapted to this market. The new Renault Duster is the first step in Renault’s renewal in India”, said Fabrice Cambolive, Chief Growth Officer Renault Group & CEO Renault brand.
New Renault Duster is made for India, with close to 90% of the car made specifically for India. It underpins the new Renault Group Modular Platform (RGMP). The platform is ultra-flexible in terms of dimensions, powertrains suited to google automotive system.
New Renault Duster is powered by a full range of powertrain options to access every Indian road and making the “unreachable reachable”. It is powered by a Turbo TCe 160 engine which churns out 163 PS of power and 280 Nm of torque, while Turbo TCe 100 is meant for smart and accessible segment.
New Renault Duster also marks the debut of the strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 engine, powered by 1.8L engine along with a 1.4 kWh battery, making it the most efficient and powerful hybrid, allowing up to 80% EV mode in city drive conditions.
The Turbo TCe 160 and Turbo TCe 100 petrol engines come paired with the 6-speed DCT with wet clutch available with Turbo TCe 160, delivers lightning fast‑ gear shifts for maximum performance and is utmost suitable for Indian driving condition. On the other hand, the 6-speed manual offers precise mechanical control with direct gear engagement for maximum driver command. Both options are engineered to bring out the best in the Duster combining performance, confidence, and driving pleasure.
“With the new Renault Group Modular Platform, Renault brings an advanced hybrid technology and top-tier safety engineering. With Renault Forever program, we also offer our customers a significantly improved ownership experience. New Renault Duster is the start of a renewed product cycle and for an exciting trajectory for Renault in India. Renault is back”, said Stéphane Deblaise, CEO, Renault Group India.
“New Renault Duster marks the rebirth of an icon. It is more than just a bold, authentic SUV; it’s a powerful statement of our design philosophy, meticulously shaped through the seamless collaboration of our design teams in India and in France. Every confident line, every modern and sculpted detail has been crafted to embody the spirit and aspirations of India, while resonating with Duster’s unique DNA”, said Laurens van den Acker, Chief Design Officer, Renault Group.
Customers can pre-book new Renault Duster by purchasing R Pass for INR 21,000. While the price of new Renault Duster will be announced mid-March, customer deliveries will begin in April 2026. The Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 deliveries to commence during Diwali 2026. New Renault Duster will be offered with seven years warranty for enhanced trust and peace of mind, thanks to Renault Forever programme.
Continental Tires, a leading global tyre manufacturer, marked the Indian launch of its new all-terrain product, the CrossContact A/T², with an adventurous Continental Tires’ Track Day at Dot Goa 4X4. With this, the country becomes one of the first few markets globally to introduce this next-generation product, which blends German engineering precision with rugged versatility to ensure a smooth ride across challenging terrains.
The highly anticipated launch of the CrossContact A/T² reiterates Continental’s growing commitment to the Indian market.
“India’s 4×4 vehicle segment is experiencing sharp growth, driven by a growing passion for adventure and long-distance travel. With our ‘In the Market, For the Market’ approach, we continually innovate to meet the demands of Indian road conditions and deliver enhanced driving experiences. The CrossContact A/T² delivers high performance across the diverse terrains and topographies that India offers,” said Samir Gupta, Managing Director, Continental Tires India.
He further added, “India is the first market globally to introduce the CrossContact A/T². This decision is a testament to Continental’s commitment to the Indian market. We remain committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions tailored to our Indian customers.”
CrossContact A/T²: Engineered for Performance. Designed for Adventure
Built for power, performance, and precision, the CrossContact A/T² is engineered for SUVs and 4x4s, offering superior grip across all surfaces: mud, gravel, sand, wet highways or rocky trails. Designed for modern, adventurous lifestyles, it brings a confident on-road feel and unshaken off-road capability. Key Technologies in CrossContact A/T²:
● BlackPaw™ Compound: Adaptive traction tech that maintains elasticity and control across hot, cold, dry, and wet surfaces.
● Self-Cleaning Shoulders: Open tread patterns and stone ejectors dislodge slush, mud, and debris to keep you moving clean and steady.
● Rigid Tread Block Geometry: Reduces hydroplaning and enhances braking efficiency with precisely angled groove design.
● Reinforced Sidewalls: Built tough to resist cuts, abrasions, and trail damage, ensuring long-term durability and control.
It is the world’s most successful compact sports car: the Golf GTI. The original in its class. More than 2.5 million units have been produced to date. In 2026, the Golf GTI will turn 50 – and this will be celebrated with a variety of national and international classic events, the exclusive anniversary model Golf GTI EDITION 501, and the world premiere of the first all-electric GTI.
A success story since 1976. When the Golf GTI was launched in 1976, no one could have guessed that the 81 kW (110 PS) Volkswagen, with its red grille surround, black wheel arch extensions and golf ball gear knob, would soon become the world’s most successful compact sports car. Only 5,000 units were planned, but in the first year alone dealers sold 10 times as many vehicles. In total, 461,690 first-generation Golf GTI cars were built.
It was the unusual overall package that struck a chord: a highly precise sports car for lonely Alpine passes and, at the same time, a practical companion for every day of the year, extremely economical and instantly a timeless style icon. The price was also a hit: 13,850 Deutschmarks in Germany. The media spoke of the democratisation of the sports car. And indeed, the performance of the 182 kmph Volkswagen was impressive: with a sprint from 0 to 100 kmph in just 9.0 seconds, the 1976 Golf GTI left behind numerous sports cars and coupés that were easily 10,000 Deutschmarks more expensive.
The DNA for the past 50 years – and for tomorrow. The unique interplay of agile engine, lightweight front-wheel drive, balanced chassis, perfectly fitting sports seats and crisp, no-frills design still characterises the Golf GTI today. It is this synthesis that Volkswagen has continuously refined over 50 years – making the Golf GTI an authentic sports car and the original in its class. The fact is: today, when people say GTI, they mean Volkswagen. The crowning glory of this world-famous product brand in the anniversary year 2026 is the Golf GTI EDITION 50 – the most powerful production Golf GTI to date, with 239 kW (325 PS). The anniversary model is already available to order in some European markets, with the first units to be delivered in 2026. Volkswagen has also proven that the GTI philosophy is successful in other model series, especially with the Polo GTI. In 2026, a new Polo GTI will take off: the ID. Polo GTI. With 166 kW (226 PS), it will transfer the GTI philosophy into the electric drive era for the first time – there could not have been a better debut year for the first electric GTI.
Classic GTI in Paris and Bremen. The first five decades of GTI will be the focus of various major classic events in 2026. The celebrations kick off from January 28 to February 1 in Paris at Rétromobile. The classic car show at the Port de Versailles will celebrate its 50th birthday in 2026, just like the Golf GTI. Almost simultaneously, the first German show for classic vehicles begins in the Hanseatic city of Bremen: the Bremen Classic Motorshow. Here, the Golf GTI will be in the spotlight from January 30 to February 2. Both shows are therefore not only the opening events for the European classic season 2026, but also for the GTI year 2026.
The Flying Spur Speed has again demonstrated its exceptional performance in all conditions by setting a new ‘winter lap record’ at the world’s most northerly active race circuit.
The record was set at the Drivecenter Arena circuit in Fällfors, northern Sweden – just 100 miles from the Arctic Circle, and a former military airbase. Despite the entirety of the 2.05-mile track being covered in 12-inch of ice and snow, the Flying Spur Speed was able to complete laps in under three minutes, with the best time standing at 2:58 – the quickest any vehicle has lapped the facility in winter conditions, ever. The Flying Spur’s variable four-wheel drive system and rear-wheel steering combined to give the car outstanding agility in the conditions, and peak speed was 120 mph during the record run despite the longest straight being only 450 metres long and covered in sheet ice.
The record was inspired by a combination of previous events from Bentley’s history – the two Ice Speed Records captured by Bentley in 2007 and 2011, and the one-hour endurance record set by a Turbo R at Millbrook Proving Ground in the UK in 1986 where 140 mph was averaged around the banked bowl. While the conditions mirrored those of the Ice Speed Records, the car that was used – registration Y15 BML – has a specification matched to the Turbo R in Bentley’s Heritage Collection. Identical Brooklands Green paintwork, yellow fine lines, and an interior in Linen, Cumbrian Green and Open Pore Walnut were specified to mark the Turbo R’s 40th birthday this year.
The Flying Spur Speed is a car designed to deliver exceptional driving performance in all conditions, thanks to its Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain and advanced chassis systems. An advanced 600 PS 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 is combined with a 190 PS electric motor that is neatly integrated within the 8-speed dual clutch transmission. In Sport Mode this powertrain deploys a full 782 PS and 1,000 Nm, with the instant torque of the E-motor complementing the charismatic cross-plane beat of the V8.
In pure EV mode, the E-motor provides 190 PS and 450 Nm of torque, more than enough to keep up with the traffic in most situations, while the 25.9 kWh battery offers up to 47 miles (76 km) of usable electric-only range (on the EU drive cycle). Together, the V8 and E-motor provide the new Flying Spur with a total range of 515 miles (829 km). Full electric mode can be deployed at speeds of up to 87 mph / 140 kmph, with throttle applications of up to 75 per cent.
The Bentley Performance Active Chassis comes as standard with the Flying Spur Speed. Features of the sophisticated new setup include Bentley Dynamic Ride and All-Wheel Steering, along with an electronically controlled Limited Slip Differential, while a new generation of ESC software permits a range of driving styles to be accessed and provides reliable traction in all conditions – though the record was asset with the system completely switched off.
With the new car’s rear-biased weight distribution of 48.3 : 51.7, the chassis systems and ESC have a mechanically-optimised platform in which to provide the final refinement. The system uses active torque vectoring front to rear through a centre differential, and precision vectoring across each axle using the brakes, to provide exceptional traction in all conditions – vital for a fast lap on snow-covered sheet ice.
Celebrating its 46th year, the 60 judges of Japan Car of the Year convened at Bosch’s recently established Japan headquarters in Center Kita, Yokohama City to select the country’s best cars of 2025-2026. In addition to the jurors, some 41 representatives from the country’s most influential automotive and lifestyle publications, who run the Japan COTY organisation, and dozens of car industry executives gathered to witness the vote-counting and prize-giving ceremony.
In a major change to previous voting methods, the Japan COTY organization decided to employ a new Formula 1 style voting system for 2025-26 in which judges had to allocate their votes across all of the top 10 finalists. In the same way as F1 race winners receive 25 points, each juror was required to give their best car 25 votes, their second best 18 votes, their third best 15 votes, fourth 12, fifth 10, sixth 8, seventh 6, eighth 4, ninth 2 and tenth 1 vote. The VW ID. Buzz, which finished in fifth place and ranked the highest among imported vehicles, picked up the Import Car of the Year award as well as the Best Design award.
In early polling, the Forester jumped to an early lead with the Prelude holding a close second. When all votes were counted, the Forester came home with 1149 votes, the Prelude 1076 votes, Toyota Crown (Estate) 654, Nissan Leaf 622, VW ID.Buzz 578, Hyundai Inster 477, BMW 2-Series 416, Peugeot 3008 393, Suzuki eVitara 357 and the Daihatsu Move finishing with 338 votes. After receiving his COTY trophy, the Forester’s chief engineer Katsuro Tadaki commented, “In addition to creating the highly lauded new strong hybrid powertrain, we finely tuned the car’s safety systems, packaging, handling, comfort levels, ride quality and cost performance to make the Forester the best in class.”
In addition, Porsche Japan—in the midst of celebrating its 30th anniversary in the country, saw its 911 Carrera GTS capture the Technology Award of the Year for its powerful new T-Hybrid powertrain which combines a new 3.6-liter boxer engine with an integrated electric motor for enhanced performance and minimal turbo lag, while the Porsche Experience Center took home the Japan COTY’s organizing committee’s special award for its ‘coexistence with the local community’ as well as its efforts to revitalize the Kisarazu region of Chiba. A second special award was given to the Super Endurance Organization (STMO) for its work in prototype vehicles working towards the realization of a carbon-neutral society, in addition to its efforts to open up a new stage of international exchange, including a demo run of NASCAR in Japan, a symbol of American motorsports, and promote cultural exchange between Japan and the United States through motorsport.
BMW India’s premium electric Sports Activity Vehicle – the BMW iX1 Long Wheelbase – now features a new colour and additional choices for luxurious upholstery options.
The car is locally produced and can be booked at all BMW India dealerships in the country from today onwards.
The striking Night Dusk Blue metallic paint option joins the existing palette, adding a deep, sophisticated aesthetic to the iX1 Long Wheelbase’s commanding presence. In all, the model is now available in four colours – Night Dusk Blue, Carbon Black, Mineral White and Skyscraper Grey.
The interior receives a luxurious refresh with the introduction of high-quality Veganza Smoke White + Atlas Grey Dual Tone and Veganza Castanea upholstery choices, crafted from sustainably sourced vegan leather. Furthermore, the distinctive 3D stitching pattern on the upholstery elevates the premium feel inside the cabin. These new options imply a high level of craftsmanship and provide exceptional comfort, contributing to a sense of modern, eco-conscious luxury.
A defining ‘Cocooning Effect’ philosophy seamlessly extends the chosen upholstery colour beyond the seats to other key interior elements, creating a harmonious and immersive cabin environment. The effect wraps the interior, including the door panels, dashboard, and even the speaker mesh in upholstery color, providing a continuous and plush feel throughout the vehicle.
The BMW iX1 has achieved significant success in the Indian market, becoming the brand’s top-selling electric model and a key driver of BMW’s leadership in the luxury EV segment. BMW India has constantly focused on enhancing the value offered by BMW iX1 LWB to the customers by adapting the product to the market needs such as introducing features like Surround View Camera and now coming up with a refreshed paint and upholstery palette. In less than a year of its introduction, BMW iX1 LWB is already the highest sold electric vehicle in premium segment.
The BMW iX1 Long Wheelbase is a premium offering that offers practicality and sustainability, all in one package. With a length of 4,616 mm and wheelbase of 2,800 mm, it is not just the biggest car in its segment, but also one of the longest 5-seater SUVs offered in India. Its modern design and bold, dominant stance highlight the SUV character. In the interior, a large and open feeling of space meets modern design, superior craftsmanship and innovative functionality. At the heart of the iX1 LWB lies fifth‑generation BMW eDrive technology, with its compact, integrated drive unit engineered for maximum efficiency, agile driving dynamics, and dependable reliability. It produces an output of 204 hp and a maximum torque of 250 Nm. The compact high-voltage lithium-ion battery integrated in the floor has a gross capacity of 66.4 kWh providing an attractive driving range of up to 531 kms (MIDC). The adaptive recuperation and one-pedal driving enhance the driving convenience and recover kinetic energy and feed it into the high-voltage battery, resulting in even higher efficiency.
Power Drive 