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.
A DB5 bought for less than £1,000 in the early 1970s has just completed a full restoration at Aston Martin Works – realising the dream of its long-time owner and representing one of the most remarkable pieces of automotive appreciation in the process.
Welshman John Williams – a welder and garage owner by trade – was just 18 when, in 1972, he set himself the target of buying his dream car: an Aston Martin DB5. Saving hard for upwards of a year as well as working overtime whenever he could, John conscientiously gathered together the £900 cash – the equivalent of around £15,000 in today’s money – and, in September 1973 aged just 19, made the hours-long train journey from his home in North Wales to London to view the 1965 DB5.
The Vantage-engined model, complete with Weber carburettors, wire wheels, Sundym electrically operated windows and, according to the advert in Motorsport magazine “many bills” proved to be the car for John and he acquired it for £900.
Returning in it to Wales and proudly using the DB5 as his daily drive for upwards of four years, John only mothballed the car on his driveway when he secured a job in the Middle East in 1977.
John explained: “Then… ‘life’ happened. I’d had offers to buy her, and times when I could have done with the money, but I resisted and, as Sue [John’s wife] said ‘you’ll never get another one’.”
Sue Williams added: “The neighbours’ kids used to come round to play, and they’d play on her. Bouncing on the bonnet. One balanced on the exhaust pipe and snapped it off!”
John said: “As time went on it became a goal of mine to get her restored; to be able to drive her again. Being a garage man, I was a bit ashamed that I’d let her get into that state. I worked hard to buy her, and we’ve worked hard to get her repaired.”
Naturally, the Williams’ elected to use Aston Martin Works in Newport Pagnell, the heritage home of the marque and the place where more than 13,000 of the most iconic Aston Martin sports cars were built over 50 years, to carry out the restoration which began in late 2022.
Now, around three years on from its arrival, the couple have returned to Buckinghamshire to view the completed DB5, having regularly visited the Works site to view the car’s progress through its bare metal restoration journey.
Universally acknowledged to be the most desired specification of all DB5s, the Williams car is a right-hand drive 1965 DB5 saloon with the sought-after Vantage engine. It was originally specified in what remains, today, the most desirable exterior colour – Silver Birch – and boasts an interesting provenance that includes an original owner from the St George’s Hill area of Surrey, a gated community that, at the time, was home to many celebrities including The Beatles’ John Lennon and Ringo Starr.
Of the 1,022 DB5 models built by Aston Martin between 1963 and 1965, fewer than 1,000 (887) were built in the saloon bodystyle and, of those, only 39 originally boasted the Silver Birch paintwork, higher output Vantage engine, and right-hand drive configuration of the Williams car, making this a particularly rare and desirable example of ‘the most famous car in the world’.
Back in 2023, seeing their car part way through its restoration in the Works’ Panel Shop where the chassis and Superleggera frame were restored, and where each aluminium body panel was being hand formed, Sue said: “Wow! She looks amazing, doesn’t she? You’ve done such a lot of work!”
John commented: “It looks like an Aston Martin now. I’m thrilled. It’s great to see all the old ways of building a car have been passed on, and younger people here are keeping up the tradition.”
Paul Spires, President of Aston Martin Works, said: “This really is a lovely story. We’re delighted that Mr and Mrs Williams brought the car back to the place where it was built for us to restore.
“Although the car was in a profoundly run-down condition when it arrived, we always relish a challenge and I knew we have the skills, dedication and expertise to return the car to a better-than-new condition.
“After more than 2,500 hours of dedicated work by our teams in the Panel, Paint, Trim and Heritage Workshops – along with vital support from our in-house Parts Department – the car is now finished and, to my eye at least, looks absolutely stunning.
“While it might be uncouth to speculate on values for the car I think it’s reasonable to suppose that if it ever were to be offered to the market once more, and bearing in mind its specification and provenance, a value of up to £1m would be in order.
“In this 70th anniversary year of Aston Martin’s presence here at Newport Pagnell it is inspiring to see the dedication, commitment and pride of owners such as the Williams family. I know it has been understandably emotional to see the car that they have owned for more than half a century restored so meticulously, and I know that every member of the team here hopes they can enjoy many years of happy motoring in their ‘new’ DB5.”
On seeing his fully restored DB5 for the first time just a few days ago, John Williams said: “Well, it’s been a long time coming, a long time saving, but it’s been worth every penny. It’s just amazing.
“It’s probably almost 50 years since I have driven this car, but the experience is phenomenal. It’s just… unbelievable. My girl’s back and up and running! Back to her former glory.”
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.
100 years after the birth of the first Bentley ‘Super Sports’, the nameplate returns to Bentley for only the fourth Supersports model in history. The new Bentley Supersports is the most driver-focused Continental GT ever, with rear-wheel drive, a two-seat cabin and a gross weight below two tonnes. A non-hybrid, pure internal combustion powertrain has a new 666 PS (657 bhp), 800 Nm twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 at its heart, with power fed through an eight-speed double clutch gearbox to the rear wheels only. Carbon ceramic brakes, new 22-inch lightweight forged wheels developed with Manthey Racing and an Akrapovič full-length titanium exhaust system are standard, while Pirelli Trofeo RS tyres are available.
The exterior represents the most purposeful Continental GT ever, with a series of form-following-function developments to maximise downforce and save weight. A new front bumper integrates the biggest front splitter ever fitted to a Bentley road car, and feeds cooling air to the engine and front brakes. Carbon fibre dive planes, side sills, fender blades and a rear diffuser and fixed rear wing combine to generate more than 300 kg more downforce than a Continental GT Speed. The weight saving regime extends to the roof, which is now a carbon fibre panel to also lower centre of gravity whilst maintaining structural stiffness.
Inside, the two-seat cabin features new, highly bolstered sports seats, positioned lower in the car, with the rear cabin environment replaced with a carbon fibre and leather shell. Monotone, duo-tone and tri-tone interiors are available, with extensive use of leather, Dinamica and carbon fibre for a performance-focused space.
Bentley’s Chairman and CEO, Dr Frank-Steffen Walliser, comments: “The new Supersports is more than just the most driver-focused Bentley yet. It signifies a return to Bentley making more extreme cars – ones that combine extraordinary breadth of ability with true driver engagement, while remaining pieces of automotive artwork unique and bespoke to each customer. Bentley has always thrived when revealing a more daring side, and the new Supersports is a statement of our intent while celebrating 100 years of the name. This is the first project developed from start-to-finish since I joined Bentley Motors, and I’m proud of our team and the speed at which we’ve created a car so different to the GT on which it’s based.”
Project Mildred The new Supersports is the product of an idea that was first proposed in September 2024, when a small engineering team theorised how a rear-wheel drive, sub-two-tonne Continental GT might behave dynamically. Approval was given for them to build one test mule, which took to the track only six weeks later, to prove their concept. The performance of this key demonstrator was convincing, and the project to create the new Supersports was born – albeit under close guard and with a small and focused engineering team.
It was immediately recognised that the project needed a codename to keep it secret. For this, the team turned to inspiration from Bentley’s past, and the story of Mildred Mary Petre. Born in 1895, she was a record breaker on land, and sea and in the air as a racing driver, a powerboat racer and a pilot. In 1929, she drove a Bentley 4½ Litre around the Montlhery circuit in France, solo, for 24 hours. In so doing, she averaged almost 90 mph and established a new endurance record – a phenomenal achievement by today’s standards but even more incredible in the 1920s. She pushed the boundaries of what was possible with a fearless spirit, and so in her honour, the development team christened their new project: Mildred.
A Lineage of Performance The word Supersports is a modern amalgamation of one of the most evocative names from Bentley history – “Super Sports” – first applied to a Bentley 100 years ago this year. The first Super Sports was launched in 1925 and based on the 3 Litre, with an uprated engine and shorter (and therefore lighter) chassis meaning it was the first Bentley capable of exceeding 100 mph. It also established the second aspect that defines “Super Sports” – rarity, with only 18 examples built.
Dormant for decades, the Supersports name – now one word – roared back to life in 2009 with a 204-mph revival, defining the pinnacle model of the first-generation Continental GT. This was the first two-seat variant of the Continental family, was 100 kg lighter than the standard car, and the most driver-focused Bentley of the day.
It was eclipsed in 2017 by an even faster, more thrilling successor, based on the second-generation Continental GT. Like the first generation Continental Supersports it was powered by a 6.0-litre twin-turbo W12, but now generating 710 PS – making it then the most powerful Bentley ever. 710 examples were produced, to match the power output.
The previous generations of Supersports all defined the ultimate performance version of their respective model families. The new Supersports takes this approach in a different direction; rather than focusing on top speed, the target is maximum driver engagement, through a combination of weight reduction – the most extreme in Bentley’s history – and a new powertrain.
The First RWD Continental GT The powertrain of the new Supersports is non-hybrid and purely Internal Combustion Engine (ICE). A new, strengthened 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 is the heart of the car – with a stronger crankcase, uprated cylinder heads and larger turbos. The changes yield the highest power density of any Bentley engine – 666 PS / 657 bhp (166.5 PS per litre), with 800 Nm of torque. Coupled to the engine is the ZF eight-speed double clutch transmission used across the Bentley model range, but redeveloped for the Supersports with uprated clutches and a new shifting strategy. Gear shifts are now sharper and more responsive, while the downshift strategy during braking has been precisely calibrated to deliver optimal stability and driver confidence.
The engine breathes though a full-length titanium exhaust which is tuned to be significantly more characterful than any previous Bentley. Developed in conjunction with Bentley partners Akrapovič and unique to Supersports, the complete system amplifies and tunes the cross-plane V8 note to be extremely compelling – deep, powerful and completely authentic, with no artificial in-cabin enhancement.
The sprint to 62 mph / 100 kmph will be dispatched in 3.7 seconds, and top speed will be circa 192 mph / 310 kmph (official verified figures will follow in due course). More important that the headline figures though, will be how the Supersports behaves dynamically.
For that, Bentley’s chassis engineers have enjoyed the opportunity for a new level of driver engagement, by making the new Supersports the first rear-wheel drive Continental – except for the Continental GT3 race cars – in history. Power is fed exclusively to the rear wheels through an eLSD, out to rear wheels that have an increased track of 16 mm over a Continental GT. The eLSD is assisted by torque vectoring by brake, with the systems working together to make turn-in as sharp as possible and to give maximum traction. Rear-wheel steering is retained for maximum agility and stability, while the calibrations for the steering, suspension, traction management and ESC systems are all-new.
ESC settings allow the driver to select how much independence or assistance they would prefer – from fully-on, through a Dynamic Mode that allows a level of slip and oversteer within reactive limits, to fully-off – where the driver has complete control of the rear axle, and can provoke the Supersports into significant but highly controllable oversteer.
There are three new configurations to the Drive Dynamics Controller:
Touring mode matches the performance character of the Sport mode in a Continental GT Speed, but pairs it with increased ride height, softer damping and a more discrete exhaust character.
Bentley mode increases the performance character beyond Touring mode, with gearbox strategy, throttle pedal and chassis settings all uplifted. Exhaust system valves open to enhance sound character, and launch control becomes available.
Sport mode goes even further, with ultimate optimisation for driver engagement and tuned for maximum chassis and powertrain response.
The chassis system uses aluminium double wishbones at the front with a multi-link rear axle, air springs, and new twin chamber dampers – ECU-controlled in bump and rebound independently. Bentley Dynamic Ride, the proprietary 48V electric anti-roll control system, can apply up to 1300 Nm of anti-roll reaction torque in 0.3 seconds. Braking is by the largest automotive braking system in the world – 440 mm Carbon-Silicon-Carbide (CSiC) discs on the front axle, clamped by 10-piston calipers, and 410 mm discs with four-piston calipers at the rear – fitted as standard. Calipers are black as standard, with a red-painted option available.
The Supersports comes with new, 22-inch forged and machined aluminium allow wheels developed in conjunction with specialists Manthey Racing, available in two finishes – Black Painted, and Black Painted and Machined (introducing a silver metal accent). Uniquely for the Supersports, two tyre options are available: a standard Pirelli P-Zero tyre, and a new Trofeo RS performance tyre as an option. With Trofeo RS tyres fitted, the chassis changes and weight savings mean that the Supersports can corner approximately 30% quicker than a Continental GT Speed, with up to 1.3g peak lateral force.
The Lightest Bentley in 85 Years – With the Most Downforce The new Supersports is nearly half a tonne lighter than the Continental GT, and will weigh less than 2000 kg. The most significant weight saving comes from the powertrain, with a reduction commensurate with the conversion to ICE-only propulsion and rear-wheel drive. The roof – usually aluminium – has been replaced with a carbon fibre panel, which saves weight and lowers the overall centre of gravity.
The rear cabin environment has been deleted, saving a significant amount of weight. Along with the seats and seatbelts, rear cabin sound insulation has been reduced, and the audio system has been reconfigured for the front cabin only. Additional weight savings come the deletion of certain driver assistance systems, not required on a driver-focused GT.
The new exterior details of the car combine to make this the most aggressive Bentley Grand Tourer ever. Crafting new elements in carbon fibre helped reduce weight further to meet the target, with new pieces including:
A new lower front bumper, with an integrated front splitter (the largest aerodynamic splitter ever fitted to a road-going Bentley). The bumper includes two new cooling channels each side, that feed cool air to the front brakes and engine respectively. Above the bumper, a new lightweight mesh grille, with a design unique to Supersports, is laser cut in extremely fine aluminium
Two pairs of stacked dive planes sit at the corners of the front bumper, working in conjunction with the splitter to reduce front lift
New side sills, running the length of the wheelbase
Behind the front wheels, new B-shaped fender blades manage the airflow from the front wheel arches, aiding both extraction of high-pressure air and managing its flow along the body side.
A new rear diffuser, built into an all-new rear bumper construction that includes vents for the rear wheel arches
A one piece, fixed rear spoiler to the top of the boot lid
These aerodynamic pieces are all the result of extensive testing, with form following function, and no elements included just for aesthetic purposes. Together, the additions generate more than 300 kg more downforce than a Continental GT Speed, while maintaining lift balance along the car and helping to achieve a dynamic weight distribution, which starts at 54:46 when the car is stationary and gradually moves rearward with speed.
The final finishing carbon fibre touches are the wing mirrors and engine cover.
A Sporting Cabin The interior of the new Supersports is as purposeful as the rest of the car, inspired by the energy and precision of motorsport. Two-seat only, it completes the focus on driver engagement that is the singular mission statement of the car. Every details is engineering to elevate the driving experience, redefining performance-focused luxury.
New lightweight sports seats are provided for the driver and one passenger, with increased lateral bolstering, a lower position in the car and carbon elements across the shoulder area. The seats feature 11-way electric adjustment and retain seat heating. The rear cabin is replaced by a lightweight and precision engineering carbon fibre tub that wraps around the space. Finished with a leather wraparound design, the tub integrates into the rest of the cabin and delivers a cleaner, more purposeful interior layout.
Lightweight and high gloss carbon fibre veneers to the waistrails and fascia panels are standard, joined by a blend of leather and Dinamica, with the latter technical material to the centres of the seat backs and seat cushions, the centre panels of the doors and the headlining. Supersports embroidery and badging completes the cabin, together with an individually numbered badge to the centre console.
Numbered, Individual, Bespoke Every Supersports will be individually numbered before it leaves the factory, with customers able to request specific numbers from the 500 examples that will be handcrafted in Crewe.
Paint options start with a core range of 24 performance-focused colours, with additional paint finishes including Supersports logos and matte paint available via Mulliner. Beyond single-tone exteriors, Bentley’s design team has developed five ‘Design Themes’, which include either a small section of vertical striping and a Supersports name in a contrasting colour on the lower body side behind the front wheel, or a series of painted stripes in two contrasting colours across the rear quarters of the car.
Exterior carbon fibre is available in high gloss finish, and the lower elements can be fully painted or pinstriped.
For the cabin, 22 Main Hide colours are accompanied by 11 Secondary Hide and nine Accent Hide colours. Single tone, duo-tone (as standard) and a new and unique tri-tone colour split are all available, and Dark Chrome Specification is standard.
In place of interior carbon fibre, customers can also choose from Diamond Brushed or Engine Turned Aluminium in a Dark Tint finish, or the clean and elegant simplicity of Piano Black.
The launch imagery for Supersports is in a Design Theme called “Nightfall”, which blends Anthracite gloss exterior paint with a Camel accent to the lower bodywork along with Camel lower striping and a contrast number 8 to the grille. The interior is in Beluga and Camel, with Bronze accents.
Meanwhile, the car unveiled in New York at the global debut is in a specification called ‘Daybreak’, in Jetstream Matte with a Design Theme livery in Arctica and Portofino. The interior is Damson with Light Blue and Pillar Box Red accents.
Ordering, Production and Deliveries The launch of the new Supersports will be celebrated with the most dynamic and exciting film in Bentley’s history, which will be revealed with a premiere in Dubai in January. Order opening follows in March, with production beginning in Q4 2026 ahead of first deliveries at the start of 2027. The new Supersports will be available in the following countries and areas: UK, Europe (EU27 plus Switzerland and Turkey), USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Oman, Bahrain, UAE, Qatar and Kuwait.
Vehicle currently in pre-production state. Supersports will only be available in specified markets.CO2 emissions and fuel consumption information for EU27 pending and subject to individual vehicle approval.
The new MINI Countryman SE All4 was launched in India today at an ex-showroom price of INR 66,90,000. The car will be available in the country as a completely built-up unit (CBU) and can be booked at all MINI India authorized dealerships from today onwards. Deliveries for the same will commence immediately.
Mr. Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India said, “The new MINI Countryman SE All4 is a car that’s full of confidence and adventure. It’s electric, it’s fun to drive, and it’s perfect for exploring the city and the great outdoors. With its spacious interior, eco-friendly tech, and signature MINI style, every drive is a special experience. The sporty design and John Cooper Works trim make it a great choice for those who love performance and sustainability.”
The new all-electric, all-wheel-drive MINI Countryman SE All4 is the epitome of versatility and driving pleasure. The modern, minimalistic design with clear surfaces and wider wheel arches reinforces the look of the new MINI Countryman SE All4. The character of this SUV is underlined through the vertical orientation of body details. Its distinctive front grille, striking headlights and the very sculptural bonnet enhance the overall appeal. Short overhangs and slim contouring give the vehicle’s silhouette an elegant definition. The visual three-part division into the vehicle body, surrounding window area and a Jet Black roof ensure the MINI is instantly recognizable. The surfaces look particularly exciting thanks to an integrative treatment of details. Flush door handles and absence of side scuttles underline the clear and modern overall impression. A clearly defined shoulder area gives a decidedly athletic body. A wide stance on the rear, characteristic charisma and a modern minimalist design with clearly designed surfaces ensure the new MINI Countryman SE All4 has a significantly enhanced presence.
With its dynamic, sporty exterior and exclusive JCW trim, the new MINI Countryman SE All4 stands out as the epitome of driving fun and individuality. The exterior colour options Legend Grey or Midnight Black are complemented by roof and mirror caps and Sport Stripes in Black. The John Cooper Works trim stands out with unique design features of the Grille, Bumpers, Side Skirts, Rear Spoiler and Door Entry Sills. The JCW Aerodynamic styling, JCW Sports stripes in Black, Black Roof rails offer a dynamic appearance. The Piano Black Exterior Trim and wheel arches add to the sporty look of the car. The 19-inch JCW Runway Spoke Black alloy wheels further elevate the sharp character.
The striking appearance of the car is enhanced by three selectable Signatures Modes (Classic, Favoured and John Cooper Works) for the Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) of the LED headlights and the redesigned matrix rear lights. All three modes begin and end with a specially orchestrated welcome and goodbye animation. The intelligent High Beam Assistant takes care not to blind oncoming traffic during night-time driving.
Minimalist design, digital innovations and immersive user experience are the hallmarks of the interior. The sportiness is elevated with JCW Sports Seats, Vescin/Cord combination JCW Black upholstery and JCW Dashboard Trim. Electric seat adjustment with Active Seat for the driver is available as standard. The JCW Steering Wheel with paddle shifters adds to the hallmark MINI go-kart feeling. The Headliner Anthracite elevates aesthetics inside the cockpit. The dashboard and door panels are completely chrome-free and leather-free, using recycled 2D knitted fabric lining. The textile surface is made luminescent by ambient lighting and projections from the MINI Interaction Unit that make even rush hour relaxing. The panoramic glass roof adds to the bright and spacious atmosphere.
The focal point of the cockpit in the MINI Countryman SE All4 is the round OLED display. The central instrument with a diameter of 240 mm and a high-quality glass surface simultaneously controls the infotainment and assistance systems. With the new MINI Operating System 9, all vehicle functions can be operated intuitively via touch or voice assistant. The innovative MINI Digital Key Plus turns the smartphone into a car key via the MINI App and can be transferred to different users, along with their personal vehicle settings. Head-up Display projects all relevant information directly in the driver’s line of sight. A Fisheye Camera can capture selfies, fun moments and videos with sound, inside the cabin and is capable of transfers via a QR code. Harman Kardon Surround Sound System is an aural treat. Other features include Navigation, Remote Services, Remote Software Upgrades, Apple CarPlay / Android Auto, Teleservices, In-Car Weather and Intelligent Emergency Call.
With the MINI Experience Modes, one can choose from several immersive driving experiences, from the race-inspired ‘Go-Kart Mode’ to the energy-saving ‘Green Mode’ or the lively ‘Vivid Mode’ and more. MINI Experience Modes extend the indoor experience by tuning the light, sound and graphics settings.
A distinctive Toggle Bar Island gives access to the important driving functions including start/stop, gear selector, parking brake, experience modes and volume control. General storage area below the toggle bar provides space for a smartphone to be wirelessly charged.
The versatile and powerful electric drive makes it a perfect companion for unbridled driving fun even off the beaten track. With 313 hp and a maximum torque of 494 Nm, the new MINI Countryman SE All4 sprints from 0-100 km in just 5.6 seconds. It has a top speed of 180 kmph. The standard all-wheel drive system distributes its power precisely and reliably, providing the sporty SUV with sufficient grip and traction even in challenging conditions. It is powered by a lithium-ion battery with gross capacity of 66.45 kWh and has ample WLTP* driving range (combined) of up to 440 kms. The new MINI Countryman SE All4 also ensures fast and hassle-free charging. Charging time is – 130 kW DC Charger – 10 to 80% in 29 min (100 km top up range in 8 min) and 22kW AC – 0 to 100% in 3 hrs 45 min. (*WLTP = Worldwide harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure). JCW Sport Brakes impress with direct response and a better pedal feel.
Advanced assistance systems such as Cruise Control and Parking Assistant Plus with 360 degree Camera increase comfort, control and safety and relieve the driver from monotonous and less demanding aspects of driving. With Comfort Access, the car is locked / unlocked automatically as it recognises the key is at a distance of less than 1.5 meters.
The standard MINIMALISM technology includes auto start/stop function, brake energy recuperation, active cooling air ducts and electromechanical power steering. The wide range of alloy wheels depending on the variant, radiate confidence while reducing carbon footprint thanks to their lightweight design and use of recycled Aluminium.
The standard SAFETY equipment comprises of front passenger airbags and side curtain airbags, Brake Assist, 3-Point Seat Belts, Dynamic Stability Control, Crash Sensor, Anti-lock Braking System, Cornering Brake Control, Rear View Camera, and Tubeless Tyres with Tyre Pressure Indicator.
Bentley Motors today announced a series of updates to its forward-thinking Beyond100+ strategy, reflecting current market and customer perspectives. In a press conference streamed live from Bentley’s home in Crewe, and the future assembly line of Bentley’s first fully-electric car, Chairman and CEO, Dr. Frank-Steffen Walliser, outlined a revised product cadence plan that includes extending the offer of internal combustion-engined as well as plug-in hybridised models.
Creating an entirely new segment with the world’s first true Luxury Urban SUV, the all-new Bentley – designed, developed and produced in Crewe – is on track to be launched towards the end of 2026, with deliveries to markets during 2027. The as yet unnamed model will be incremental to Bentley’s current offering, less than five metres in length and promises a true Bentley driving experience and the craftsmanship expected of the marque, with industry-leading technology that includes the capability of charging from 0 – 100 miles in less than seven minutes. Development of the car continues at pace with pre-series, or prototype, vehicles embarking on a global performance programme.
Furthermore, hybridised Bentley models, today offered in both High and Ultra-Performance Engines in Continental GT coupe, Convertible and Flying Spur, would be available until at least 2035 meaning that Bentley’s previous target of being exclusively electric by that milestone could be extended. Another internal combustion engined model, the Bentayga Speed, was added to the range earlier in 2025 and in the same conference, Bentley revealed that a new non-hybridised and limited production performance model would be announced before the end of this year. It also didn’t rule out further similarly-engined cars to follow as it continues to maintain powertrain flexibility in line with customer demand across its global markets.
Commenting following the announcement, Dr. Frank-Steffen Walliser, Chairman and CEO of Bentley Motors, said: “Today’s updates to our Beyond100+ strategy reaffirm Bentley’s commitment to progress — responsibly and sustainably. We are evolving our product cadence to reflect the realities of a changing world and a dynamic marketplace. By extending introducing new internal combustion engined models, and offering hybrid powertrains until at least 2035, we are ensuring that every Bentley customer can continue to experience the full breadth of our performance and craftsmanship.
“Our first fully electric Bentley, the world’s first true Luxury Urban SUV, represents a bold step forward, it embodies our vision for sustainable luxury and technological excellence. With industry-leading charging capability and unmistakable Bentley character and design, it marks the beginning of an exciting new era for our brand – a future defined by innovation, craftsmanship, and sustainability.”
Beyond100+ also endures a fundamental reinvention of the Crewe manufacturing infrastructure, and helps secure Bentley’s future at Crewe for the next generation of products and colleagues.
The company has already made enormous strides in reinventing the historic Crewe site, creating an industry-leading certified carbon neutral facility, and as the oldest building, named A1, prepares to assemble Bentley’s first electric car, the Dream Factory is closer to nearing completion.
The largest self-funded site investment programme in Bentley’s history continues with a new state-of-the-art Paint Shop due to open in 2026. This follows a new Design Centre and Integrated Logistics Centre, both opened earlier this year, transforming an 87-year-old site for a new age of electrification, and a new benchmark in next generation, digital, flexible and high-value manufacturing operations.
Nissan Motor India announced a significant milestone in its export operations with the export of its 1.2 millionth vehicle from India. This accomplishment underscores Nissan’s steadfast commitment to its ‘Make in India, Make for the World’ philosophy and reaffirms India’s pivotal role as a strategic export hub for the company in the AMIEO region. The 1.2 millionth vehicle, a New Nissan Magnite B-SUV destined for the GCC region, was ceremoniously flagged off by Mr. Saurabh Vatsa, Managing Director, Nissan Motor India, at the Kamarajar Port, Ennore, Tamil Nadu.
Since the commencement of its export operations, Nissan Motor India has shipped a diverse range of models including the Nissan Magnite, Nissan Sunny, Nissan Kicks and Nissan Micra, catering to global markets across Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, and Southeast Asia. The arrival of the New Nissan Magnite significantly increased the global footprint of Nissan Motor India’s export strategy in both LHD and RHD covering our 65 countries.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Saurabh Vatsa, Managing Director, Nissan Motor India, said: “We are proud to celebrate yet another historic milestone of exporting 1.2 million Nissan vehicles from India. This achievement reflects the collective dedication of our teams and the trust of customers across the world in our Made-in-India cars. The Nissan Magnite continues to be a global success story, representing our focus on design, quality, and innovation that transcends borders.”
The New Nissan Magnite has been recognized among the safest B-SUVs, earning a prestigious 5-star Global NCAP rating for Adult Occupant Protection and 3 stars for Child Occupant Protection. With its bold design, over 20 first and best-in-segment features, and 55+ safety features, the Magnite continues to set benchmarks in the compact SUV segment.
Proudly Made in India, the New Nissan Magnite embodies Nissan’s ‘One Car, One World’ strategy and is now sold in over 65 countries across both right-hand and left-hand drive markets, showcasing India’s manufacturing excellence on a global stage. The company is also gearing up for the upcoming launch of its new global C-SUV, the Nissan Tekton, which will be introduced in India next year and also exported to select international markets.
CARS24 has announced a bold step that redefines accountability in the pre-owned car industry, the launch of India’s first-ever 30-Day Return Policy. With this, buyers can return their car within 30 days or 999 km if it doesn’t meet their expectations, a first for the Indian market and a move that directly ties product confidence to customer trust.
Conversations with thousands of car owners and first-time buyers revealed a consistent truth, when it comes to pre-owned cars, peace of mind matters just as much as price. Buying a car is one of the biggest financial decisions for most families and people want the assurance that what they are driving is truly dependable, not just on day one but after they have lived with it. The 30-Day Return Guarantee was designed to close that trust gap and give buyers the time, space and confidence to know they’ve made the right choice.
India’s pre-owned car market, valued at over INR 3 lakh crore and growing nearly three times faster than new car sales, has long faced a single barrier: uncertainty around quality. CARS24 is tackling that challenge with rigour and transparency. Every car undergoes 300+ quality checks for performance, safety and structural integrity and only about 15% of inspected cars make it to the retail lineup, the rest are filtered out at the quality gate.
To make quality measurable, CARS24 uses AI-led inspection technology that can detect even micro-level defects invisible to the human eye. Each car is certified through Cartruth, the company’s proprietary inspection framework that ensures consistent standards of quality across every city in India.
“Trust has always been the hardest currency in this business,” said Himanshu Ratnoo, CEO, CARS24 India. “Even new car manufacturers don’t let you live with a car for a month and return it if it doesn’t feel right. We’re doing that because we’re so sure of our quality and because accountability should start with us. We stand behind every car we sell. The 30-Day Return Guarantee sets a higher standard for trust, one that proves quality through experience. We can offer it because we are certain our customers won’t ever have to return the car”
The process is simple. Customers have 30 days to experience their car. If it doesn’t meet expectations, they can raise a request through the CARS24 app or email. After a quick reinspection, the car is picked up and the refund processed within days.
With this move, CARS24 becomes the first company in India to bring e-commerce-like consumer protection to the auto space. As the used car market grows at nearly three times the rate of new car sales, initiatives like these could shape a new era of confidence-led car buying where quality is proven through experience, not promises.
For 100 years, Phantom has been recognised as the ultimate symbol of success and discernment, chosen by the world’s most influential figures. As this legendary nameplate celebrates its 100th anniversary, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars pays tribute with the Phantom Centenary Private Collection, limited to 25 examples.
The Rolls-Royce Bespoke Collective of designers, engineers and artisans poured their skill and imagination into what has become their magnum opus. They immersed themselves in Phantom’s world, studying the spirit and identity of each generation from the 1920s to today. They explored defining owners, pivotal figures within Rolls-Royce, the places where Phantom was conceived and built, and the events that defined its times. These influences, first captured as 77 hand-sketched motifs, are woven into the Phantom Centenary Private Collection through stunningly crafted archival references, creating a statement that honours Phantom’s past, defines its present, and projects the principles that will shape the nameplate’s next 100 years and beyond.
Each historic moment is brought to life through advanced artisanal techniques, many conceived specially for this rare and collectable tribute. Inside, couturier-designed textiles, sketch-like embroidery, laser-etched leather, and groundbreaking woodcraft — including 3D marquetry, gilding, and 3D ink layering — tell Phantom’s story in stunning, intricate detail. Outside, the grille is crowned with a unique Spirit of Ecstasy figurine, reinterpreted from the very first to grace a Phantom, and presented in solid gold to mark this milestone.
Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, said: “The Rolls-Royce Phantom Centenary Private Collection is our tribute to 100 years of the world’s most revered luxury item. This uncompromising work of art uses the meticulously engineered Phantom VIII as the canvas to tell the story of Phantom’s remarkable life and the people who shaped it – from the visionaries within Rolls-Royce to the owners who helped create its legend. For a century, the Phantom nameplate has expressed the pinnacle of Rolls-Royce’s abilities. To honour that legacy, this extraordinarily ambitious Private Collection introduces new techniques and is the result of over 40,000 hours of work, culminating in a motor car which reaffirms Phantom’s status as a symbol of ambition, artistic possibility, and historical gravitas.”
EXTERIOR: AN ELEGANT, BESPOKE STATEMENT Evoking the timeless elegance of a black-and-white film star, the Phantom Centenary Private Collection’s exterior recalls the golden age of Hollywood, when Phantom graced premieres, carried screen icons, and became a symbol of the era’s glamour. The motor car is finished in a Bespoke two-tone paint, its long-sided application a nod to the flowing silhouette of 1930s Phantoms. The side body is presented in Super Champagne Crystal over Arctic White, with the upper body in Super Champagne Crystal over Black. The specially developed finish gives the exterior an extraordinary metallic shimmer, achieved by infusing the clear coat with iridescent particles of crushed glass. For this celebratory Private Collection, Rolls-Royce paint specialists replaced the clear flakes with champagne-coloured particles and doubled the quantity to create spellbinding depth.
This timeless treatment is crowned with a unique reimagining of the Spirit of Ecstasy. Using the first Spirit of Ecstasy ever fitted to a Phantom as their reference, designers created an homage to this landmark figurine, cast in solid 18-carat gold for strength, then plated in 24-carat gold for a flawless, tarnish-resistant finish. The piece was then presented to the Hallmarking & Assay Office in London, where it received a specially developed ‘Phantom Centenary’ hallmark.
The base of the figurine is finished with hand-poured white vitreous enamel delicately inscribed with the collection’s name. For the first time, the ‘RR’ Badge of Honour – positioned on the front, rear, and each side of the motor car – is presented in 24-carat gold and white enamel.
Resolving the exterior is a set of Phantom disc wheels, each engraved with 25 lines – honouring the 25 motor cars within the collection and, together, making 100 lines to celebrate the centenary year.
Martina Starke, Head of Bespoke Design, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, said: “Having the privilege to pay a Bespoke tribute to the Phantom nameplate is a once-in-a-generation opportunity. Seizing on the significance of this moment, a record number of designers spent a year immersed in the motor car’s rich history, uncovering the stories that shaped its legend. Their research was distilled into 77 hand-sketched motifs, each capturing a defining moment in Phantom’s journey and expressed with levels of detail we have never attempted before. The result is a true collective work of art that celebrates the skill, ambition and imagination of everyone at the Home of Rolls-Royce, and the profound respect the marque’s creatives have for this extraordinary motor car.”
INTERIOR: IMMERSED IN THE PHANTOM LEGEND A century of Phantom’s stories elegantly unfold across the many canvases of the Private Collection’s interior, through magnificent archival references – some immediately recognisable, others revealed over time.
In homage to Phantoms of the past, Phantom Centenary’s interior combines textiles and leather, recalling the marque’s foundational years when the chauffeur’s front seat was finished in hardwearing leather and the rear cabin in luxurious fabrics. This contrast is a subtle reminder that Phantom has always balanced both authority at the wheel and absolute serenity in the passenger suite.
REAR SEATS: TAILORING EXCELLENCE The rear seats of Phantom Centenary are inspired by the famed 1926 ‘Phantom of Love’, commissioned with handwoven Aubusson tapestries. The artwork on the seats unfolds across three distinct layers of storytelling. The first is the background, rendered in high-resolution print, showing places and artefacts from Phantom’s history – from the marque’s original Conduit Street premises in London to Henry Royce’s oil paintings of Southern France. The second layer, also printed in high resolution, portrays great Phantoms of the past in finely drawn detail. The third and uppermost layer is formed of embroideries, abstractly representing seven significant owners from every generation of Phantom.
This complex fabric was developed over 12 months in partnership with a fashion atelier, marking its first commission beyond the world of haute couture. To meet Rolls-Royce’s exacting longevity, tactility and aesthetic standards, the high-resolution printing process was perfected with specially adapted inks and techniques devised exclusively for the Phantom Centenary Private Collection.
The high-resolution printed fabric is completed with embroideries, designed to have a uniquely hand-drawn quality. Described by the Bespoke Collective as “sketching with thread”, this embroidery process captures the expression of a pencil line in textile form. To outline and define each image, artisans applied Golden Sands thread in sketch-like, irregular stitches, creating the illusion of lines floating lightly above the surface. Texture and depth were added with Seashell thread, applied in high-density stitches. Across the full composition, this intricate craftwork amounts to more than 160,000 stitches.
The finished artwork spans 45 individual panels, each precisely aligned and fitted around the curvatures of the seats at the Home of Rolls-Royce: a process inspired by Savile Row tailoring techniques. The result is the most intricate seat composition ever created by Rolls-Royce.
Celina Mettang, Bespoke Colour and Material Designer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, said: “Conceived as a contemporary interpretation of a handwoven tapestry, the rear seats tell Phantom’s story through carefully curated details, captured in textiles and embroidery. Every embroidered element was digitally re-drawn by artisans who selected specific stitch application for every stroke. For example, in the horse motif, we used spaced stitches to recreate the hair texture, then dense stitching to define the muscle. These fine details required extraordinary precision to get right: one motif went through 24 iterations before we were satisfied. This reflects the deep personal pride we felt in creating a fitting tribute to the Phantom nameplate, and the responsibility we all share in carrying its legacy forward.”
FRONT SEATS: A DESIGN STATEMENT IN THE DRIVER’S QUARTERS The leather on the front seats features laser-etched artwork based on hand drawings by a Bespoke designer, evoking the draftsman’s craft. Among the motifs are symbolic details that elegantly carry the extraordinary weight of Phantom’s 100-year legacy, from a rabbit design – a nod to “Roger Rabbit,” the codename for the relaunch of Rolls-Royce in 2003 – to a seagull, the codename for the 1923 Phantom I prototype.
ANTHOLOGY GALLERY: A STORY OF DISTINCTION TOLD OVER 100 YEARS The centrepiece of the Phantom Centenary Private Collection is the Anthology Gallery. This dramatic composition features 50 3D-printed, vertically brushed aluminium ‘fins’ interlaced like pages of a book. Each fin is composed of sculpted letters that can be read from both sides, forming quotes drawn from a century of press acclaim.
The sculpture is subtly lit by shifting illuminations that recall the shimmer of falling fireworks. The brushed edges of each fin create a play of reflections, changing with the viewer’s moving perspective.
WOODWORK: A SCULPTURAL STATEMENT The Private Collection features the most intricate woodwork ever created for a Rolls-Royce. Developed over a year and rendered in stained Blackwood, the door panels depict Phantom’s most significant and formative journeys. Within each composition, geographical maps, winding routes, sweeping landscapes, floral elements, and depictions of experimental motor cars intersect to form an artwork alive with Phantom’s heritage.
The rear doors portray the coastline of Le Rayol-Canadel-sur-Mer, where Sir Henry Royce spent his winters. The right-hand side front door shows the landscape of West Wittering, home to his summer residence, just eight miles from today’s Home of Rolls-Royce. The left-hand side front door recalls the epic 4,500-mile journey of the first-ever Goodwood-era Phantom, which crossed the Australian continent from Perth.
Each composition combines 3D multi-directional marquetry, laser etching, 3D ink layering and gold-leafing to create dimension and texture. Etched motifs, which include maps, landscapes, flowers and trees, are applied onto the wood at three different depths using a laser. The roads representing these journeys gleam in 24-carat gold, crafted from squares of gold leaf just 0.1 micrometres thick. Each road is painstakingly crafted, cut and placed.
The rear doors also incorporate depictions of flora native to Southern France — pine, cypress, ferns and palm — while a section of the rear passenger door recreates one of Sir Henry Royce’s original oil paintings of the region, translated from canvas to wood. The exact locations of Royce’s homes — Villa Mimosa in the South of France and Elmstead in West Wittering — are marked with a single gold-leaf dot just 2.76 mm in diameter.
Katrin Lehmann, Bespoke Colour and Material Designer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, said: “We drew on an extraordinary range of sources – original texts, diaries, photographs and paintings – to create a composition that weaves together many threads of Phantom’s story. New technology developed for this project, including 3D ink layering, allowed us to add details at a scale never before possible – some just 0.13 mm in height – from a boat sailing across the sea to location names on a map. It’s a privilege to have the time and technology to realise moments in Phantom’s history with the detail and precision the nameplate deserves.”
The wooden surfaces on the doors transform into masterfully embroidered leather panels. The 24-carat gold ‘roads’ continue as golden thread embroidery; details of the maps and landscapes are stitched in black, echoing the etched details on the veneered section of the doors.
The woodwork is completed with depictions of the original 1925 Phantom I and the current Phantom VIII, individually etched on the rear picnic tables. The models are mirrored in embroidery on the leather-finished backs of the picnic tables – another gesture uniting past and present.
The Piano Black veneer is infused with gold dust, echoing the central rotary dial, also plated with 24-carat gold.
Phil Fabre de la Grange, Head of Bespoke, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, said: “Phantom Centenary is the most intricate and technologically ambitious Private Collection ever undertaken by the designers, engineers, production specialists and craftspeople of our Bespoke Collective. Developed over three years, this project uses new techniques to blend metal, wood, paint, fabric, leather, and embroidery into a single, stunning composition. The surfaces read like a book revealing 100 years of Phantom’s history, rich with symbolic references for clients to admire and decipher over many years to come.”
A GOLDEN LEGACY The magnificent engineering masterpiece that is the 6.75-litre V12 engine is celebrated with a specially designed cover, finished in Arctic White. The cover has been detailed with 24-carat gold, honouring the effortless power that has helped define Phantom’s modern legend and success.
PHANTOM’S STORY IN STARLIGHT A subtly animated and embroidered Starlight Headliner captures moments from Phantom’s history in 440,000 stitches. Its design includes references to the mulberry tree under which Henry Royce was photographed in his garden at West Wittering, seated with two close colleagues: Charles L. Jenner, the marque’s Chief Engine Draftsman, and Ernest Hives, the head of Rolls-Royce’s experimental department. Drawing on this moment, the Bespoke Collective sought to create an atmosphere of inspiration so that clients seated beneath the Starlight Headliner might experience, as Royce once did, their own flashes of imagination and possibility.
The scene unfolds to include the distinctive square-crowned trees in the courtyard of the marque’s Goodwood headquarters. The honeybees – a reference to the 250,000 residents of the Rolls-Royce Apiary – are in full flight, perhaps towards the Phantom Rose, grown exclusively on the grounds of the Home of Rolls-Royce. Interwoven within the constellations are quiet tributes to great Phantoms of the past – among them a bird motif representing Sir Malcolm Campbell’s Phantom II, known as the ‘Bluebird’. Hidden amongst the mulberry leaves is a reference to the locking mechanism on the vault door at ‘The Bank’ – the secret 1990s design studio where the first Phantom of the Goodwood era was drafted.
AN UNFORGETTABLE HERITAGE, IN MOTION For the designers, engineers and artisans who created the Phantom Centenary Private Collection, this motor car was a once-in-a-generation responsibility. What has been achieved reflects the same spirit that gave rise to Phantom itself: the marque’s relentless pursuit of excellence and ambition to craft the best motor car in the world.
The new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman All4 was launched in India today at Buddh International Circuit. The car will be available in the country as a completely built-up unit (CBU) and can be booked at all MINI India authorized dealerships from today onwards. The deliveries for the same will commence soon.
The MINI John Cooper Works models always stand out for their exhilarating high-performance inspired by MINI’s racing pedigree. With its 2.0-litre four-cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine, the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman embodies this unmistakable driving experience. The all-rounder SUV offers ultimate thrill of driving, space and safety. Thanks to its all-wheel drive system, it is extremely capable for offroad adventures.
Mr. Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India said, “The MINI John Cooper Works Countryman is a masterclass in performance and style, perfectly blending power, adventure and exhilarating drive. Born from the legendary John Cooper Works racing heritage, this car embodies the spirit of motorsport, with performance and precision at its core. Built to excel in every environment, this John Cooper Works is engineered to dominate the track, city streets, and rugged terrain alike. With its impressive capabilities and dynamic design, the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman ALL4 is the most powerful MINI ever.”
The new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman has a bold and sporty look that reflects its performance and versatility. The exterior features a number of model-specific details that enhance its overall appearance. The aerodynamic elements with vertical reflectors on the front of the car emphasise its wide stance, while the new MINI LED headlights with horizontal bars in JCW Signature Mode give the SUV a more expressive look. The front end is also characterised by the newly designed octagonal grille in high-gloss black and the newly designed three-colour JCW logo. The exterior color options Legend Grey or Midnight Black are complemented by roof and mirror caps and Sport Stripes in Chilli Red, while the exterior color option British Racing Green is complemented by roof and mirror caps in Sport stripes in Black. The newly designed C-pillar seamlessly joins the contrasting roof in motorsport-inspired Chili Red. The roof curves down towards the rear, giving the MINI JCW Countryman an agile silhouette despite its big proportions.
The John Cooper Works logo has also been redesigned with a modern, clearcut look. For the first time, the new logo is being used in the classic black, red, and white colour scheme. A high-performance braking system with brake calipers in Chili Red colour ensures powerful and precise deceleration. The characteristic sound of the quad exhaust flap system also makes the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman instantly recognisable as a high-performance model. The standard 19-inch JCW Runway Spoke Wheels add to the sense of sportiness of this SUV.
In the interior, the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman inspires with a reduced design. The cockpit is divided into an upper and lower section, with vertical door handles and air vents in the upper area. This emphasizes the upright and larger overall impression of the spacious SUV. The sportiness is elevated with the electronically adjustable JCW Sports Seats, Vescin/Cord combination JCW Black upholstery and JCW Dashboard Trim. The JCW Steering Wheel with JCW paddles in aluminum add to the hallmark MINI go-kart feeling. The rear of the vehicle is highly versatile and spacious. The rear row of seats can be adjusted by up to 130 mm. With the rear seat folded down, even bulky items can be easily transported with luggage compartment space increasing from 500 litre to 1,450 litre. The panoramic glass roof adds to the bright and spacious atmosphere.
The 2.0 litre, 4-cylinder TwinPower Turbo petrol engine produces a peak output of 300 hp and a maximum torque of 400 Nm, making the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman All4 the most powerful MINI ever launched in India. The car can achieve 0-100 kmph acceleration in just 5.4 seconds, making it the fastest MINI in the country. It has a top speed of 250 kmph. The standard all-wheel drive system distributes its power precisely and reliably, providing the sporty SUV with sufficient grip and traction even in challenging conditions. The 7-Speed Double Clutch Steptronic Sport Transmission offers even more efficient, comfortable and sporty driving due to a broader gear spread and smaller engine speed steps. The car comes with a Boost mode that unleashes its full potential, delivering rapid bursts of speed for overtaking, cornering, or launching from a standstill. It acts as a shortcut to selecting all the most extreme individual settings via the Experience Modes.
A distinctive Toggle Bar Island gives access to the important driving functions including start/stop, gear selector, parking brake, experience modes and volume control. General storage area below the toggle bar provides space for a smartphone to be wirelessly charged. The MINI Interaction Unit, the central, high-resolution OLED display is home to all the other functions. The MINI Operating System 9 is optimized for touchscreen and voice control and provides advanced connectivity for maximum ease of use. The new MINI Intelligent Personal Assistant (IPA) can be activated by saying “Hey MINI” to control a wide range of functions such as navigation, telephony, entertainment and others. The innovative MINI Digital Key Plus turns the smartphone into a car key via the MINI App and can be transferred to different users, along with their personal vehicle settings. Head-up Display projects all relevant information directly in the driver’s line of sight. A Fisheye Camera can capture selfies, fun moments and videos with sound, inside the cabin and is capable of transfers via a QR code. Harman Kardon HiFi Sound System is an aural treat. Other features include Navigation, Remote Services, Remote Software Upgrades, Apple CarPlay / Android Auto, Teleservices, In-Car Weather and Intelligent Emergency Call.
With the MINI Experience Modes, one can choose from several immersive driving experiences, from the detailed, race-inspired ‘Go-Kart Mode’ to the energy-saving ‘Green Mode’ or the lively ‘Vivid Mode’ and more. MINI Experience Modes extend the indoor experience by tuning the light, sound and graphics settings.
Advanced assistance systems such as Cruise Control and Parking Assistant Plus with 360 degree Camera increase comfort, control and safety and relieve the driver from monotonous and less demanding aspects of driving. With Comfort Access, the car is locked / unlocked automatically as it recognises the key is at a distance of less than 1.5 meters.
The standard technology pack includes auto start/stop function, brake energy recuperation, active cooling air ducts and electromechanical power steering. The alloy wheels radiate confidence while reducing carbon footprint thanks to their lightweight design and use of recycled Aluminium.
The standard safety equipment comprises of front passenger airbags and side curtain airbags, Brake Assist, 3-Point Seat Belts, Dynamic Stability Control, Crash Sensor, Anti-lock Braking System, Cornering Brake Control, Rear View Camera, and Tubeless Tyres with Tyre Pressure Indicator.
Power Drive 