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.
Kia Corporation has officially extended its partnership with tennis legend Rafael (‘Rafa’) Nadal, continuing an authentic affiliation that has grown to transcend mere sponsorship over the last 21 years. The announcement is being celebrated by Nadal’s visit to Korea, where he has been participating in events for both tennis prospects and fans under the theme “The Road Ahead.”
The brand’s partnership with Rafa began in 2004, when Kia Spain chose to sponsor the up-and-coming athlete. Following his first Grand Slam success at the 2005 French Open, Kia officially appointed Nadal as global brand ambassador in 2006. The champion’s values of resilience and constant self-improvement were in clear alignment with Kia’s values.
This week, Nadal returned to Korea for the first time since 2013 to celebrate the renewal of his enduring partnership with Kia. The renewal ceremony was held today at Kia Unplugged Ground, the company’s flagship brand space in Seongsu, Seoul, providing an opportunity to look back on the history of Kia and Nadal, their shared journey, and the values they hold in common.
“Kia and Rafael Nadal have shared a spirit of determination and a passion for the sport of tennis since we first joined hands in 2004,” said Ho Sung Song, President and CEO at Kia Corporation. “As we set out on a new chapter of our journey together, Kia will continue to build on our partnership with Rafael Nadal to bring positive inspiration to fans and young athletes around the world.”
“I would like to thank the Kia family for their enduring support and friendship throughout our 21 years together,” said Rafael Nadal. “Our partnership began when I was very young and has lasted over two decades, a powerful statement of our shared values. Going forward, I am sure we will continue to work together and inspire each other toward growth and innovation. The future awaits for both and we will work the future for the next generation both on and off the courts.”
Prior to the ceremony, a junior tennis program with Korea’s top 20 junior players was held yesterday at Tenez Park in Walkerhill Hotel. An exclusive tennis clinic was conducted by coaches from the Rafa Nadal Academy, where two players with outstanding performances were selected to participate in the High Performance Tennis Junior Camp in Spain next year.
Later today, a special event will be held for tennis fans and influencers to commemorate the new journey of Kia and Nadal. The fans, selected through a social media challenge, will have the opportunity to meet Rafa in person and discover insights into his life, career, and the inspiration he gained from tennis through a Q&A session.
Finally, a pop-up event is being held at Kia Unplugged Ground until November 9, allowing customers to relive Kia and Rafa’s partnership journey firsthand. The space has been redesigned into a celebratory showcase of both Nadal’s career highlights and the history of his affiliation with Kia. Visitors will also be able to view the spacious Kia PV5 Passenger and EV9 ‘GT-Line’, the vehicle that Nadal personally drives.
Kia has been a long supporter of the game of tennis through its various sports marketing activities over the years. Earlier this year, the company partnered with the Australian Open as the Major Partner of AO25 for the 24th consecutive year, further extending its track record as the longest-running major partner in the history of the tournament.
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.
The Supervisory Board of SEAT and CUPRA, chaired by Thomas Schäfer – Member of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG, Brand Group Core, and CEO of the Volkswagen brand – has appointed Markus Haupt as the new Chief Executive Officer of SEAT and CUPRA, effective immediately. Haupt has been serving as interim CEO since April 1, and now, with the full support of the company’s Executive Committee, formally assumes the position on a permanent basis.
“Markus brings over two decades of experience across multiple brands and countries within the Group,” said Thomas Schäfer, Chair of the SEAT and CUPRA Supervisory Board. “His deep expertise in production, logistics, and strategic planning makes him the ideal leader to drive the company’s electrification strategy and CUPRA’s continued growth. Having successfully led the transformation of SEAT and CUPRA’s facilities in preparation for the Electric Urban Car family, he is perfectly positioned to shape the brands’ future,” he added.
Markus Haupt takes the helm at a crucial juncture as the company accelerates its electrification. Since joining as Executive Vice-President for Production and Logistics in 2022, Haupt has driven a transformative shift, including a €3 billion investment to electrify the Martorell plant. Guided by his vision and expertise, the company has led the groundbreaking Electric Urban Car family project with four models from three brands in two plants on behalf of the Brand Group Core. This initiative is set to make electromobility more accessible, with the highly anticipated CUPRA Raval -the first model to roll off the production line- launching in March 2026 and paving the way for a new era of urban electric mobility.
“My passion for cars began early and has guided my career, from working on prototypes at the Volkswagen Group to now leading SEAT and CUPRA as CEO. I am honoured to steer the company through its most significant transformation, including the launch of groundbreaking models like the CUPRA Raval and our shift toward electrification. Together with the Executive Committee and our teams, I am confident we will write a new chapter of growth in the company’s history,” said Markus Haupt upon his new appointment. “I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Oliver Blume, Thomas Schäfer, and the Board of the Volkswagen Group for placing their trust in me with this exciting challenge. I’m equally grateful to SEAT and CUPRA’s Executive Committee for being exceptional teammates and constant sources of inspiration. Together, I’m confident we will achieve remarkable things,” he added.
With over 20 years of experience within the Volkswagen Group, Markus Haupt has held leadership roles across multiple brands and countries. After studying and graduating in Barcelona, he began his career in 2001 in SEAT and quickly advanced, playing a key role in the launch of the Audi Q3 at the Martorell plant. He later led major production projects, including the Volkswagen Group’s A0 platform in Wolfsburg and the launch of the T-Roc in Palmela, actively contributing to the Group’s transition toward electric mobility.
A passionate racing enthusiast, Haupt is German with Spanish descent and has deep personal and professional ties to Spain. He previously served as President of Volkswagen Navarra and General Manager of the Landaben plant in Pamplona, where he successfully introduced a third model for the first time in the factory’s history, before returning to Barcelona in 2022.
Positioning the company for long-term success As one of the company’s key strategic pillars, the company remains firmly focused on CUPRA’s growth, now with a fully-fledged portfolio and a growing global fanbase. CUPRA has already sold over 950,000 cars globally and is on track to reach one million total deliveries in the coming weeks. As CEO, Haupt now leads the company at a time when the sales continue to gain momentum. SEAT S.A. sales grew in the first 8 months of 2025, driven by CUPRA’s success. The brand continues to break boundaries, and between January and August 2025, CUPRA delivered 216,000 vehicles, marking a 36% increase compared to the same period last year.
This momentum comes amid a complex industry landscape. “There will be challenges ahead, but I’m sure that with a shared vision, a commitment to transformation and a unified team going in the same direction, we will be successful. We are on the cusp of exciting changes, as we transition towards electrification. That’s a future I’ve always believed in, and it’s one that we will work harder than ever to achieve.” Haupt said.
CUPRA is now preparing to take bold steps beyond its current boundaries. This announcement comes at a key moment for the company, as CUPRA builds on growth momentum -volume, markets and portfolio- ahead of the launch of the CUPRA Raval. Following its ambition to become one of Spain’s truly global brands, CUPRA will build on the strong success it has achieved in existing key territories and will soon expand into new high-potential markets to broaden its global footprint. The brand is investigating new growth opportunities in the Middle East, a region that offers CUPRA a unique opportunity as it is quite close to Europe and it’s one of the fastest-growing economies in the world.
Along with CUPRA, the SEAT brand remains a cornerstone of the company’s present and future strategy. As one of the most recognised Spanish brands, with over 21 million vehicles produced since 1950 and more than 172,700 units sold in 2025 (January-August), SEAT has been instrumental in shaping the company into the economic and automotive powerhouse that it is today. Now, it is poised to enter a new era in its history with the upcoming World Premiere of its bestselling models, the SEAT Ibiza and Arona.
“We stand at the beginning of an exciting new chapter for SEAT S.A. As one company with two complementary brands, we are better prepared than ever to lead the future of mobility, continuing to inspire through innovation and the passion that has always defined us,” Haupt said.
Change needs drivers and SEAT S.A. is steering the future of mobility. As the only company in Spain that designs, develops, manufactures, and markets cars, SEAT S.A. is a cornerstone of the nation’s automotive industry and the driving force behind its electrification.
As the company undertakes the biggest transformation in its 75-year history, SEAT S.A. is turning Spain into a European hub for electric vehicles. Through the Future: Fast Forward project, and in collaboration with the Volkswagen Group, PowerCo, and other partners, the company has invested €10 billion into the country’s electrification. The company is also leading the Electric Urban Car project for the Volkswagen Group’s Brand Group Core and will begin producing 100% electric vehicles, including the CUPRA Raval, at its Martorell plant from 2026.
A member of the Volkswagen Group, SEAT S.A. sells vehicles under the SEAT and CUPRA brands including the iconic SEAT Ibiza and the company’s bestselling model, the CUPRA Formentor. With 14,000 professionals and three production centres in Martorell, El Prat de Llobregat, and Barcelona, the company exports over 80% of its vehicles to more than 70 countries.
Aston Martin is proud to announce a new DB12 halo model, the DB12 S. Taking the thrilling, driver-focussed DB12 as its start point, DB12 S builds on that pioneering recipe of intensely dynamic ultra-luxury performance by adding more power and even greater dynamic prowess. Together with striking exterior changes and extensive interior enhancements, DB12 S is the new pinnacle of Super Tourer.
Joining DBX S and Vantage S, DB12 S is the latest to honour Aston Martin’s long tradition of applying the ‘S’ suffix to the highest performing derivative of an established model. This custom began in 1953 with the glorious DB3S road racer. More recent examples include the first and second generation Vanquish S – launched in 2004 and 2016 respectively – V8 and V12 Vantage S models introduced in 2011 and 2013, and the magnificent four-seater Rapide S, also launched in 2013.
The heart of the DB12 S is an even more potent version of the formidable Aston Martin 4.0-Litre Twin-Turbo V8. Now with 700PS @ 6000rpm – an increase of 20PS – and 800Nm delivered between 3000 and 6000rpm, the DB12 S offers scintillating response, relentless acceleration and a 202mph top speed.
In keeping with this intensified spirit, DB12 S features a distinctive new exhaust sound character. The new quad tailpipe stainless steel sports exhaust system has been tuned to accentuate the engine frequencies throughout the rev range for added depth and potency. An optional titanium exhaust system amplifies that soundtrack, further boosting the bass, mid and treble frequencies uplifting the sound level by 1.5dB. while also reducing weight by 11.7kg compared to the stainless steel system.
Calibration changes to the powertrain have optimised the Launch Control system, reducing gearshift times by more than 50% and contributing to a 0.1sec improvement in 0-60mph time, which is now just 3.4 seconds. Aston Martin engineers have further honed the throttle pedal calibration, introducing a more progressive throttle pedal feel with a new S-specific drive-by-wire throttle map to give the driver an even greater sense of connection and control.
An extensive package of chassis changes, target a commensurate increase in the driver’s sense of agility, connection and precision together with improvements in feel and composure. Software changes to the Bilstein DTX dampers to improve roll and pitch control work in harmony with a stiffer rear anti-roll bar and finessed camber, toe and castor geometry settings. Combining these changes bring improvements in front-end confidence and overall agility feel.
Additional tuning of the steering calibration and electronic rear differential (E-diff) has enabled Aston Martin’s chassis engineers to dial-in further connection and response for even more natural and intuitive feel. With the ability to use more throttle earlier in the corner for maximum satisfaction from corner entry to exit, DB12 S achieves an impeccable balance of agility and exploitability, together with an underlying stability for ultimate confidence and enjoyment.
Another significant upgrade for the DB12 S is the standard fitment of Carbon Ceramic Brakes (CCB). Offering increased braking performance and thermal capacity together with a significant reduction in unsprung weight, the CCBs – 410mm diameter at the front, 360mm at the rear – combine linear brake response and consistent pedal feel with exceptional resistance to fade. They also save 27kg of unsprung weight compared to steel brakes, which brings benefits to ride quality, steering feel and dynamic handling behaviour.
The DB12 S also benefits from the next generation of corner braking control system (CBC), which optimises interaction between the Integrated Brake Slip Control and the Integrated Vehicle Control modules. A predictive function within the CBC allows the car to maintain optimum stability while trail braking into a corner, using more of the rear braking performance to maintain a tighter line from corner entry to apex.
This system allows the driver to brake later and with improved stability, the Integrated Brake Slip Control system providing torque vectoring across the rear axle to provide predictable, precise and consistent cornering behaviour in all driving environments, from twisting country roads, high-speed highway junction exits or driving on a racetrack.
Aston Martin Director of Vehicle Performance, Simon Newton said “The technology we introduced with the DB12 now allows us exceptional scope to explore a new depth of character and capability within the same vehicle platform. With DB12 S we have carefully engineered a host of detailed changes, which, preserve signature levels of refinement, boost vehicle performance and amplify driver engagement. Having added this greater dynamic and performance bandwidth to DB12 S, we believe this elevates the Super Tourer ethos to a thrilling new level.”
Visually, the new DB12 S reflects its significantly bolstered performance and sporting feel with a striking new look. Starting at the front, the DB12 S is identified by new dual element front splitter and new bonnet louvres, with each performing a functional and aesthetic role.
The splitter visually lowers and widens the DB12 S to create a more assertive look, while also generating downforce and guiding airflow in and around the front wheel arches to stabilise airflow and further reduce lift. The bonnet louvres – finished in gloss black or optional 2×2 Twill Carbon Fibre – aid extraction of hot air from the ‘hot-V’ configured 4.0-litre V8 while completing DB12 S’s more aggressive frontal aspect.
Moving to the flanks, DB12 S features gloss black sill additions. These continue the line formed by the new front splitter, further enhancing the ground-hugging stance. DB12 S also continues the tradition of carrying S badges in key locations. Specifically, on the fenders just below each side strake. Featuring a hand-made, in either bright or dark chrome, forged ‘S’ badge completed with red glass enamel, it is a discreet but enduring mark of performance.
The rear design of the DB12 S makes an emphatic statement, capturing the essence of boosted power, sharpened dynamics and an unforgettable soundtrack. Once again aerodynamics play a major role, the fixed rear spoiler adding drama and increasing high speed stability. Below sits the new rear diffuser, which reduces lift while allowing space for the DB12 S signature stacked pairs of exhaust tailpipes, which are framed within a broader rear bumper for maximum visual impact.
In common with its ‘S’ badged stablemates in the revitalised Aston Martin range, the interior of DB12 S features a host of distinguishing details unique to the halo model. Foremost amongst these is a red anodised finish to the knurled metal drive mode rotary controller, which also informs the colour of the seatbelts, contrast seat welts, contrast stitching and headrest embroidery.
Amongst the enticing options offered on DB12 S are an Alcantara® heated sports steering wheel, and the iconic Aston Martin wings applied to the seat headrests by an industry-first technique using both embossing and debossing for unprecedented precision and sculptural depth.
DB12 S comes with a choice of three interior trim environments; Accelerate leather and Alcantara trim, Inspire S semi-aniline leather and Alcantara and Inspire S full semi-aniline leather. Both Inspire S packages include S Herringbone quilting with micro-perforations and an Alcantara headlining. DB12 S is fitted with 16-way Sport Plus electric front seats as standard, plus the option of a Carbon Fibre Performance seat.
DB12 S is available to order now, in Coupe and Volante form, with deliveries commencing in Q1 2026.
Nissan Motor India today revealed the name and offered a tantalizing preview of the design for the newest edition to the global SUV lineup: the All-New Nissan Tekton.
A name that reflects Nissan’s ambition
The name “Tekton” is of Greek origin, meaning “craftsman” or “architect”. It aligns with Nissan’s ethos of precision engineering and innovation that enriches lives. The name signifies a powerful, premium C-SUV that embodies engineering excellence, performance, and a distinctive design identity. The Tekton will be a choice for those who are “shaping their world” through their careers, passions, or lifestyles.
Ahead of its full unveiling and start of sales in 2026, the Tekton is designed and engineered to disrupt the C-SUV segment. It will be the second product under Nissan’s ‘One Car, One World’ strategy, manufactured in partnership with Renault at the Chennai plant for sale within India and future export to select global markets.
Design and Inspiration
Nissan’s newest SUV, the Tekton, draws design inspiration from the company’s longest-running and most iconic SUV, the terrain conquering Patrol. When it arrives next year, it will combine bold aesthetics with robust reliability, premium craftsmanship, and a suite of advanced tech features.
At the front, a powerfully sculpted bonnet and distinctive C-shaped head lamp signature—reminiscent of the Patrol—pair with robust lower bumper to create a commanding and imposing presence that belies the vehicle’s size.
The side profile features an imposing, muscular stance, designed to create an unmistakable silhouette on the road. Paying Homage, the front doors of the Tekton feature a ‘Double-C’ shaped accent, incorporating a subtle mountain range motif inspired by the Himalayas.
At the rear, a red illuminated lightbar spans the width of the vehicle, conveying a sense of sturdiness and connecting the ‘C-shaped’ dynamic tail-lamps. The Tekton nameplate is prominently displayed across the tailgate below.
Alfonso Albaisa, Corporate Executive, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd says, “The All-New Nissan Tekton draws its design inspiration from our legendary Nissan Patrol. It is designed to disrupt, dominate, and deliver everything today’s modern Indian consumer desires. Imposing, stylish, and built to set a new benchmark in India and beyond, the design and build quality are distinctly Nissan—embodying the best of Nissan’s SUV DNA.”
Saurabh Vatsa, Managing Director, Nissan Motor in India, comments, “The All-New Nissan Tekton is going to be at the centre of the Nissan’s resurgence story and offers a glimpse into the future of our product portfolio in the country. With its commanding stance, bold looks and premium interiors, we are confident that it will be a segment disruptor, appealing to customers seeking a robust yet refined C-SUV. This model will spearhead Nissan’s growth story in India.”
The Tekton will be key to Nissan Motor India’s plans to strengthen its presence and expand its product portfolio in the country. As part of this growth, Nissan Motor India is rapidly expanding its dealership network.
The wait is finally over. Volvo Car India has announced the much-anticipated price of the Volvo EX30, the brand’s most sustainable and stylish electric car. With an introductory ex-showroom price of ₹41,00,000, the EX30 is set to make luxury electric mobility more accessible than ever before.
This festive season, Volvo Car India, together with its dealers, is bringing extra delight by offering the EX30 at INR 39,99,000 for those who pre-reserve the car before October 19, 2025. This special pre-reserve price is for a limited time, and customers can reach out to their nearest dealership for further details. The car will be available in five colours, and deliveries are scheduled to begin in the first week of November 2025.
This marks the third EV model from Volvo Cars to be locally assembled at the company’s plant in Hosakote, Bengaluru. Each EX30 comes with an 11-kW charger as a standard offer. The EX30 embodies Volvo’s commitment to sustainable mobility, innovative technology, futuristic design, and uncompromising safety.
“We are thrilled to introduce the Volvo EX30 to the Indian market at such an exciting price point, with special benefits for those who pre-reserve,” said Mr. Jyoti Malhotra, Managing Director, Volvo Car India. “We believe this model will play a significant role in making luxury electric vehicles appeal to a new segment of innovators and achievers, those who appreciate power, design and sustainable luxury. With its impressive performance, extended range, sophisticated look, and the convenience of a hassle-free ownership package*, the EX30 is set to redefine the EV experience for our discerning customers.”
As the most sustainable car in Volvo’s lineup, the EX30 has the lowest carbon footprint of any fully electric Volvo to date. Its attractive interiors are made from recycled materials, including denim, PET bottles, aluminium, and PVC pipes. Incorporating Scandinavian design and cutting-edge technology, EX30 has achieved a five-star rating in the Euro NCAP safety test. The EX30 also features active safety tools such as an intersection auto-brake to mitigate collisions, a door-opening alert to prevent ‘dooring’ accidents, and the advanced Safe Space Technology, which boasts 5 cameras, 5 radars, and 12 ultrasonic sensors.
The cabin offers an immersive experience with five ambient lighting themes and sounds inspired by Scandinavian seasons. The new Harman Kardon soundbar concept, featuring a 1040W amplifier and nine high-performance speakers, delivers state-of-the-art surround sound. The intuitive 12.3-inch high-resolution center display includes Google Built-in, 5G connectivity, and Over-the-Air (OTA) updates. This head-turning design has also earned international accolades, including the prestigious Red Dot award: Best of the Best Product Design 2024 and the World Urban Car of the Year 2024.
The EX30 comes with an 8-year battery warranty and a wall box charger. The car reimagines convenience with its digital key functionality. Using NFC, one can simply tap a card to unlock the car, and with Digital Key Plus on the Volvo Car App, your phone acts as the key, providing a seamless and smarter experience.
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars continues its year-long programme marking the centenary of its pinnacle product, Phantom, at this weekend’s Goodwood Revival.
The centrepiece of the marque’s annual presence at the event will be a display on the Aerodrome Lawn, consisting of five magnificent Phantoms representing key moments and developments in the model’s 100-year history.
PHANTOM I BROUGHAM DE VILLE – ‘THE PHANTOM OF LOVE’ Dating from 1926 – the year after the original New Phantom was launched – this celebrated motor car is one of the finest examples of automotive art and craftsmanship ever created. It was commissioned by Clarence Warren Gasque as a gift for his wife, Maude, an heiress to the Woolworth family fortune, and was both a magnificent monument to his devotion, and an immoderate homage to her passion for 18th Century French history and design. Interior details include bespoke Aubusson tapestries, a hand-painted ceiling with gilded cornices, and a drinks cabinet topped with a French Ormolu clock and a pair of French porcelain vases filled with gilded metal and enamel flowers.
PHANTOM II CONTINENTAL TOURING PARK WARD The now rare and highly prized Phantom II Continental was the production version of an experimental compact, sporting Phantom II variant produced for Henry Royce’s personal use. It was designed for high-speed touring over long distances on the smooth, straight roads of Europe and one of the few Phantoms of its era in which weight, wind resistance and other performance-related factors were as important as passenger comfort. This example, chassis 92PY, was commissioned by Mr A Y Gowen, an American industrialist who owned 16 Rolls-Royce motor cars during his lifetime. Intended for his travels around Europe, it’s fitted with a sunroof as well as the unique yellow tinted sun visor.
PHANTOM III This beautiful motor car was originally ordered and delivered to Major Frederick Warren Pearl of Eaton Square, London SW1, in 1937. It passed through a number of hands before being exported to the United States. In 1989 it was repatriated to the UK and acquired by its current owner in 1995, following a comprehensive restoration.
PHANTOM IV LANDAULETTE Phantom IV is the most exclusive model to bear the Phantom name: just 18 examples were produced between 1950 and 1956 and were offered only to royal families and heads of state. The chassis was 23.5 inches longer than that of the similar Silver Wraith; it was also the only Rolls-Royce to be fitted with a straight 8-cylinder engine. Phantom IV is still used by the British royal family for state occasions.
PHANTOM V A magnificent and rare Rolls-Royce Phantom V with coachwork by James Young, this elegant PV22 model is finished in its original Midnight Blue. It was ordered by Marks & Spencer in January 1963 for the use of its chairman, Lord Marks, and delivered to him in March 1964. In perfect mechanical order, it has covered just 92,000 documented miles from new.
During the Revival, Phantom will also make regular appearances on the legendary Goodwood Motor Circuit. Four Phantom course cars will run from the assembly area between each race, demonstrating the power, precision and dynamic ability that continue to define Phantom as ‘the best car in the world’ after 100 years.
Andrew Ball, Head of Corporate Relations, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars: “No motor car has played such a pivotal role in shaping automotive and cultural history as the Rolls-Royce Phantom. Over eight generations spanning 100 years – a remarkable anniversary we’re honouring throughout 2025 – it has represented the very best in engineering, comfort and personal expression for its owners, and won admirers around the world. Goodwood Revival – on the doorstep of the Home of Rolls-Royce – is the perfect setting in which to celebrate this extraordinary motor car and its continuing legacy, with five of the most distinctive and historically important Phantoms ever created on public display. They vividly illustrate the aesthetic, technical and emotional through-lines that connect the original ‘New Phantom’ created by Henry Royce in 1925 to the highly Bespoke Phantom commissions we bring to life for our clients a century later.”
Volkswagen is also setting the course for the future when it comes to model names: with a new naming strategy that also transfers the familiar designations of combustion-engine models to its all-electric ID. family. The first model to be launched will be the ID. Polo1 from 2026. The concept car is known as the ID. 2all.
Thomas Schäfer, CEO of the Volkswagen brand, Head of the Brand Group Core and member of the Group Board of Management: “Our model names are firmly anchored in people’s minds. They stand for a strong brand and embody characteristics such as quality, timeless design and technologies for all. That’s why we’re moving our well-known names into the future. The ID. Polo is just the beginning.”
Volkswagen will transfer more established names to the electric portfolio with each new model generation. At the same time, all vehicles with conventional drives will continue to run under their previous names. With this strategy, Volkswagen is bringing together the electric and combustion engine worlds, helping customers navigate the brand’s product range more easily in the future.
The designation ID. stands for advanced technologies and electric mobility. The Polo has always stood for quality, safety and democratisation of innovations. The new ID. Polo combines these characteristics and will be launched with its new name in the Polo’s 50th anniversary year as the first model of this strategy.
Martin Sander, Member of the Volkswagen Brand Board of Management for Sales, Marketing and Aftersales: “Our cars often accompany people for many years – they shape memories and stages of life. A model like the Polo shows just how powerful a name can be: it stands for reliability, personality and history. That’s precisely why we are again giving our ID. models names that arouse emotions and are anchored in people’s everyday lives. Electric mobility should not only be progressive, but also accessible and personal.”
The second future ID. model for the small car segment will evoke special emotions. Martin Sander: “We are bringing one of our strongest brands, the GTI, into the electric world. Also launching in 2026, the ID. GTI Concept2 model will go into production as the ID. Polo GTI. It will offer outstanding dynamics and plenty of driving pleasure.”
The still-camouflaged ID. Polo and ID. Polo GTI will make their first public appearance worldwide at the IAA MOBILITY in Munich (8 to 14 September). The day before, on 7 September, Volkswagen will unveil the concept vehicle for an electric compact SUV, the new ID. CROSS Concept, in a world premiere. The production version of this concept vehicle – the ID. Cross1 – will be launched at the end of 2026 as the electric counterpart to the T-Cross.
For Volkswagen, the premiere of the smaller and more compact vehicles in its electric family marks the start of a new era – it will make electric driving more affordable than ever, thanks to new models such as the ID. Polo and ID. Cross. These new models show clearly that Volkswagen is responding closely to customer feedback. This is evident, among other things, in the high level of quality with soft materials, the intelligent combination of digital and physical controls such as buttons and knobs in the steering wheel and cockpit, as well as the intuitive operating concept.
Volkswagen introduced the naming of the ID. family in 2018. It designates the stand-alone all-electric product range in the Volkswagen brand portfolio. The first model to be launched was the ID.3. Further models followed, which are also differentiated by model numbers depending on the vehicle segment. The largest model is the ID.7, available as a saloon and estate. This is currently the market leader in Germany and Europe.
Power Drive 