Turning the exhaust note into the beat of music, TVS Apache, today launched its first-ever official anthem — ‘The Apache DNA’, celebrating 20 years of the brand’s legacy. Bringing excitement to customers, especially the new generation in India and across the world, the anthem has been composed by one of India’s finest rapper and songwriter Brodha V. Launched in 6 languages – English, Hindi, Marathi, Tamil, Telugu & Kannada, the anthem marks a landmark cultural moment for an iconic racing and performance motorcycling brand like TVS Apache.
Music is a powerful motivator for motorcyclists, and TVS Apache channels that same energy through its performance-driven style. Embodying a fearless spirit, and racing DNA, TVS Apache has become synonymous with performance, technology, and innovation for over 6.5 million riders across 60+ countries. The anthem further amplifies this spirit, positioning itself as a bold expression of confidence and unmatched energy on and off the racetrack.
Commenting on the first-ever TVS Apache anthem, Mr. Vimal Sumbly, Business Head, Premium Segment, TVS Motor Company, said, “For 20 years, TVS Apache has been the living expression of our racing DNA, an attitude and legacy that has empowered 6.5 million riders globally. ‘The Apache DNA’ anthem is our tribute to every rider who embodies the philosophy of TVS Apache. As we continue to democratize racing-bred technology, we are also expanding TVS Apache’s presence into music and youth culture, creating deeper connections with the communities that live and breathe the brand every single day.”
The lyrics of ‘The Apache DNA’ reflect the core ethos of TVS Apache: speed, precision, and control. With the launch of the anthem, TVS Apache takes its racing DNA beyond motorcycles, strengthening its emotional connect with riders and expanding its presence across music genres and the community. As the brand continues to push the boundaries of performance motorcycling, it resonates a powerful expression of TVS Apache’s commitment to confidence, authenticity, and an unstoppable riding ethos that resonates with the next generation of riders.
Swedish luxury car brand, Volvo Car India and ChargeZone®, India’s largest EV charging network, has inaugurated an ultra-fast charging station on the Mumbai-Nashik Highway that features a 360kW star charge power unit with two dynamic load balancing dispensers. This station is located at Food Hills, Mumbai-Nashik Highway, Near Igatpuri. This marks a significant milestone in their collaboration to build a premium nationwide supercharging network.
This intelligent configuration enables optimal power distribution, reduced waiting times and faster real-world charging experience for Volvo customers and other EV users. Strategically positioned on one of Maharashtra’s busiest intercity routes, the charging station offers dedicated bays for Volvo EVs, seamless app-based access for navigation and payments, and an elevated customer experience designed for convenience and reliability.
Jyoti Malhotra, MD, Volvo Car India, spoke during the ribbon cutting ceremony organized at the charging station today, “As a legacy brand, Volvo Cars is committed to driving the transition towards sustainable mobility, and this partnership with ChargeZone® is a testament to that vision. Together, we are ensuring that our customers not only enjoy the luxury and performance of Volvo EVs but also have access to a dependable and hassle-free charging infrastructure. The new 360kW station on the Mumbai-Nashik highway is the first step in delivering a world-class charging experience across India.”
Present at the event and speaking on the occasion, Mr. Kartikey Hariyani, Founder & CEO, ChargeZone®, said, “The launch of our first co-branded 360 kW ultra-fast charging station with Volvo Car India represents an important milestone in building a premium, future ready charging network for the country. The Mumbai Nashik hub showcases our focus on high speed, technology enabled infrastructure supported by intelligent features such as dynamic power loading that significantly improve the customer experience. As EV adoption accelerates, our priority is to ensure that long-distance travel becomes fast, predictable and seamless. We look forward to supporting India’s shift toward a cleaner and more sustainable mobility landscape.”
This installation follows the Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2025 between ChargeZone® and Volvo Car India to expand access to high-speed EV charging across key national corridors, and the plan is to get a few more charging stations added in 2026. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to improving long distance EV travel, strengthening charging availability, and advancing India’s transition to sustainable mobility, while encouraging the adoption of luxury and performance EVs across the country.
Nissan Motor India has announced the launch of the All-New Nissan Gravite at an attractive introductory price of INR 5.65 lakhs. A bold and game-changing 7-seater MPV, the Gravite marks the beginning of a new chapter in Nissan’s India journey.
The Gravite is the first product to roll out under Nissan Motor India’s renewed product offensive — underlining the company’s strengthened commitment and presence in India.
The name “Gravite” draws inspiration from 1.4 billion Indians and the 19,000 vernaculars and rituals that shape the nation’s diversity; the Gravite has been purpose-built to meet the evolving aspirations of Indian families. It combines space, versatility, comfort, and everyday practicality with a commanding road presence.
Thierry Sabbagh, Divisional Vice President and President, Middle East, KSA, CIS and India – Nissan and Infiniti, said, “India is central to Nissan’s global ambitions. Our actions over the past year strengthening operations, expanding the network and embarking on a product offensive demonstrate our long-term commitment to this market. The All-New Nissan GRAVITE is not just a product launch; it marks the beginning of a sustained growth phase for Nissan in India. With local manufacturing at our alliance partner facility in Chennai and a future-ready product roadmap, we are here to compete, grow and lead in the segments that matter.”
Saurabh Vatsa, Managing Director, Nissan Motor India, said: “The All-New Nissan GRAVITE is inspired by the diversity, scale, and ambition of Indian families. Every detail from its modular seating to its commanding stance reflects how Indian customers live, travel and grow together. For us, GRAVITE is more than a product introduction. It is a promise that Nissan will continue to design, manufacture and invest in vehicles that truly resonate with India’s mobility aspirations.”
The All-New Nissan Gravite establishes a distinct and confident identity aligned with Nissan’s global design language. Its elevated proportions, muscular body lines, pronounced wheel arches and high ground clearance create a commanding road presence suited to diverse Indian driving conditions.
The Gravite is the only vehicle in its segment to feature distinctive hood branding along with unique rear-door badging — a bold design expression that reinforces exclusivity and strong visual recall.
Central to its identity is Nissan’s signature C-shaped design integration at the front and rear, ensuring instant brand recognition while delivering a premium, contemporary character.
The Nissan Gravite redefines family mobility with exceptional cabin roominess and pioneering modularity. Designed to seamlessly adapt to daily commutes and long journeys alike, it delivers intuitive comfort across all three rows.
Premium suede and leatherette quilted seats enhance seating comfort, while generous shoulder and elbow room in the first row and ample headroom and knee room in the second and third rows ensure relaxed seating for all occupants.
Safety remains a core pillar of the Gravite’s value proposition, with 30+ standard safety features designed to deliver peace of mind for families.
The All-New Nissan Gravite is powered by an efficient and refined petrol engine, thoughtfully calibrated to meet the everyday mobility needs of Indian families. It is tuned to deliver smooth acceleration, comfortable cruising and predictable performance across city and highway conditions. The combination delivers a driving experience that prioritises reliability, ease of use and everyday usability – aligning with needs of modern Indian families without compromising on fuel economy and refinement.
The All-New Gravite as the second critical model in Nissan’s rejuvenated portfolio represents a decisive step in the brand’s product renaissance in India. Building on the momentum of the New Nissan Magnite – which is exported from India to markets and locally supported by an expanding dealer network across network cities, the Gravite establishes a strong foundation for sustained growth.
With the upcoming Tekton C-SUV in mid-2026 and a 7-seater C-SUV in early 2027, Nissan’s future-ready roadmap signals a confident multi-segment offensive in the Indian market.
The All-New Nissan GRAVITE is launched at an attractive introductory price of INR 5.65 Lakhs.
The all-new BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro was launched in India at an ex-showroom price of INR 74,50,000. Locally produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai, this new petrol variant of the BMW X3 can be booked at all BMW dealerships across the country from today onwards.
The all-new X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro further bolsters the X3 portfolio in India, joining the existing xDrive 20 petrol and xDrive 20d diesel variants to offer a comprehensive range of performance-led choices for customers.
Mr. Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India said, “The BMW X3 has always been the definitive choice for those who seek a perfect blend of luxury and versatility. With introduction of the new BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro, we are taking that legacy to an enhanced level of performance and presence. Power attracts power, and the new X3 30 delivers exactly that pairing a more aggressive engine with refined luxury to create a truly spirited driving experience. With this new addition, we have further expanded the X3 offering in India to cater to our modern, performance-driven customers who demand more.”
The design language of the all-new BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro gives the car a monolithic overall appearance. The exterior design is characterised by expansive surfaces and precise contours. It’s dimensions – length: 4,755 mm and wheelbase: 2,865 mm – make it the longest car in its segment. With a width of 1,920 mm and a height of 1,660 mm, the all-new X3 is also the widest and tallest car in its segment. The front end exudes great presence courtesy of its upright stature and, most notably, the large fully black BMW kidney grille with iconic glow illumination. The best-in-class adaptive LED headlights with high beam assistant and cornering lights result in peak performance and safety in low-visibility conditions. The adaptive LED lights are based on a projector lamp setup, offering much better performance than the traditionally used reflector lights. The headlights are complimented by the M lights shadow line which adds a sporty black tint making for an imposing front fascia. The M aerodynamic package with larger air intakes in the front apron guarantee an elegantly sporty appearance. Completing the exterior’s dynamic look are the standard 20-inch M alloy wheels, along with larger M Sport brakes in red with improved braking performance that create a powerful visual statement even at a standstill.
The car’s sporty silhouette features an elongated bonnet and a long wheelbase as well as a rising window graphic and a signature Hofmeister kink. The roof rails and the integrated roof spoiler in high gloss black underscore the vehicles’ athletic and adventurous character. The large wheel arches have a subtly squared-off outline in typical BMW X model style. The all-new BMW X3 30 also comes with flush-fitting door handles. The familiar BMW X proportions acquire a sporting flavour thanks to the long roofline extending deep into the rear end. The darkened split rear lights have a double L-shape lend a more assertive and modern presence to the vehicle. The rear diffuser in high gloss black enhances the bold appearance when seen from behind.
An expressive design and high-quality materials characterise the interior of the all-new BMW X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro. The highly minimalist design lends the interior a particularly clean and modern look. The progressive and sophisticated ambience inside goes hand in hand with generous amounts of space and modern versatility for everyday use, leisure activities and trips away. The interpretation of the familiar BMW X cockpit design is shaped by the driver-oriented BMW curved display and the striking geometry of surfaces and innovative design features. The fully digital screen grouping is composed of a 12.3-inch information display and a 14.9-inch control display. The new instrument panel, elegantly wrapped in sensatec, brings a refined, high-quality finish to the cabin of the all-new BMW X3 30, enhancing the interior’s premium ambiance. Other design features include the standard BMW interaction bar integrated below the control display with control panels for the airflow and for switching on hazard warning lights, as well as the light elements in a contrasting colour that can be found in the centre console and in the front section of the door trim in both the front and rear. These form the basis for a dramatic lighting effect that further accentuates the three-dimensional character of the cockpit design. The lighting concept is further refined by the integral jewelry box located ahead of the gear selector, which uses ambient accents to spotlight stored items and reinforce the cabin’s premium feel. The all-new X3 30 also comes with a fully customizable head-up display as standard.
The M steering wheel comes with flatbottomed rims as well as control buttons providing haptic feedback. Standard shift paddles are available for manual interventions in the eight-speed steptronic transmission’s gear selection process. The sports seats come with active seat ventilation for front passengers. They also offer lumbar adjustment and backrest width adjustment for the driver, a feature unique to BMW X3. The sport seats are lapped in vegan leather ‘Veganza’ made with sustainable materials. The largest-in-segment panoramic glass sunroof gives an exceptionally elegant appearance and creates a light and airy feel inside the cabin. Travel & Comfort System, offered as standard, enables users to connect their devices to the car for a seamless entertainment experience. Rear windows also get roller sunblinds for extra privacy and protection from direct sunlight. The Harman Kardon surround sound system with 15 speakers and 750 watts of audio power provides an intense musical feast for the ears.
Thanks to BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, the X3 30 xDrive’s engine melds maximum power with exemplary efficiency and offer spontaneous responsiveness even at low engine speeds. The 2-litre 4-cylinder in-line petrol engine produces an output of 258 hp and maximum torque of 400 Nm at 1,600 – 4,600 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 kmph in just 6.3 seconds. Customers also get the sport boost function for exceptionally rapid bursts of speed as well as the sport plus mode for most dynamic handling characteristics. The all-new X3 30 xDrive comes with a 48V technology as standard which significantly improves performance as well as efficiency. The 48V technology results in remarkably instantaneous response to the slightest movement of the accelerator – when pulling away and also when putting in a sudden burst of speed – as well as more comfortable operation of the automatic start / stop function.
Adaptive suspension with electronically controlled dampers is also offered as standard. It automatically adjusts damper response to the prevailing driving situation and current driving style, with a choice of two settings depending on the my mode selected. This means sport mode activates optimal damper responses for dynamic handling, creating a noticeable contrast to the more comfort-oriented damper setting in the other my modes. Adaptive suspension combines excellent handling with supreme driving safety and allows the vehicle to be effortlessly controlled up to the limit. This has the effect of maximising not just the comfort and agility of the vehicle, but also its handling precision.
The all-new BMW X3 comes with the latest version of BMW iDrive with QuickSelect to provide intuitive, easy control. Its home screen shows vertically arranged function icons on the same level. The QuickSelect feature allows functions to be activated directly without having to enter a submenu. The new BMW iDrive is geared squarely to touch and voice control. It is based on the latest BMW Operating System 9, which also paves the way for a customisable selection of additional digital services. The all-new BMW X3 offers the best and latest of BMW ConnectedDrive services with BMW Digital Premium.
MyBMW App functions include popular options for keeping an eye on the current vehicle status at all times. The innovative BMW digital key plus services turn any smartphone into a car key and can be transferred up to 18 additional users, along with their personal vehicle settings. One can remotely lock / unlock and configure top speed, engine power, audio and more. Wireless Apple CarPlay® / Android Auto for smartphone opens up access to a range of functions and apps. In addition, customers can use the MyBMW app to generate BMW digital key plus, which turns a smartphone into a digital vehicle key. It will enable customers to physically open the doors when unlocking them this way.
The spread of BMW Connected Drive and Driver Assistance Systems that support comfort and safety are more extensive than ever. The all-new BMW X3 now comes with Driving Assistant Plus as standard which includes some best-in-class features like Active Cruise Control (with Stop&Go Function), Lane Departure Warning, Lane keep assistant and much more. Parking Assistant Plus offers the highest degree of technology and accessibility to smart parking systems in the segment with features such as fully automated parking with surround view camera and segment first features such as BMW Reversing Assistant and BMW Drive Recorder.
BMW EfficientDynamics includes features such as 8-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission, Auto Start-Stop, ECO PRO mode, Brake-Energy Regeneration, Electronic Power Steering, 50:50 Weight Distribution and many other innovative technologies.
BMW xDrive, the intelligent all-wheel drive technology, monitors the driving situation and is quick to respond to ensure maximum traction, agility and vehicle stability. Electronically controlled ‘Automatic Differential Brakes/Locks’ (ADB-X), extended ‘Dynamic Traction Control’ (DTC), Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control help to conquer every terrain.
BMW Safety includes eight airbags, Attentiveness Assistance, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including Cornering Brake Control (CBC), electric parking brake with auto hold, side-impact protection, electronic vehicle immobilizer with crash sensor and child seat mounting.
JSW MG Motor India has showcased the MG Majestor, its all-new offering as India’s First D+ SUV. After breaking cover at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, the Majestor now claims centre stage as MG’s most rugged, durable, and premium SUV tailored for the Indian roads and beyond. Built for peak performance and to deliver commanding road presence and all-terrain performance, premium comfort, and advanced safety, the Majestor showcases cutting-edge 4×4 prowess raising the bar with segment-leading innovations, luxury features, top-tier safety, and enduring build quality.
Commenting on the occasion, Anurag Mehrotra, Managing Director, JSW MG Motor India, said, “India’s premium SUV customer is evolving rapidly, looking not just for space, but for a vehicle that projects stature, inspires confidence, and integrates seamlessly into a more ambitious lifestyle. With MG MAJESTOR, we have created an SUV that is rugged in its capability, refined in its comfort, and dependable in its engineering. MAJESTOR for us represents our vision of what a true, full-size SUV should stand for, which is a commanding presence, sophisticated premium craftsmanship, intelligent in technology, and uncompromising in performance.”
Exterior
Resting on a massive 2950 mm wheelbase, the Majestor asserts dominance at the longest (5046mm), widest (2016mm), and tallest (1870mm) – unmatched in class. Its Mosaic Matrix Combination Grille, Dragon Eyes DRLs, split headlamps, connected LED tail lamps with sequential turn signals, raised hood line, and 19-inch alloy wheels amplify a bold, upright, rugged profile. Yet, it maintains a sophisticated, premium aesthetic that turns heads on city streets or highways.
Interior
Step inside for an expansive haven in black theme with plush leather and sleek centre console. Driver and co-driver seats are ventilated, offer massage function, memorize positions, and can be adjusted in multiple ways (12-way driver, 8-way passenger). A panoramic sunroof floods light, while 64-colour ambient lighting sets the mood. Three-zone AC ensures personalized comfort.
Flexible in 6- or 7-seater configurations, it suits families or adventurers. Dual 12.3-inch displays (instrument cluster and infotainment) support wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay. Immersive 12-speaker JBL sound, dual wireless chargers, 220V outlet, and 75+ iSMART connected features underline a tech-forward, luxurious drive every time.
Off-Road Capabilities
At the heart of the Majestor lies true SUV engineering, powered by a 2.0-litre twin-turbo diesel engine that churns best-in-segment power at 215.5 PS and 478.5 Nm torque mated to 8-speed AT (Automatic Transmission) in both 2WD and advanced 4WD.The Advanced 4WD system with 10 off-road modes balances worlds – on-road ease, off-road might.
In Auto Mode, the vehicle intelligently operates in 2WD during regular driving conditions and automatically switches to 4WD the moment it detects loss of traction. This ensures better fuel efficiency during daily use while delivering enhanced off-road capability exactly when required. This intelligent mode is particularly effective in conditions such as rain, snow, and slippery surfaces which require higher speeds.
Further strengthening its rugged credentials, the Majestor becomes the first in the segment to offer front, rear, and centre differential locks, enabling it to pull itself out of extreme situations even when one or more wheels lose traction or lift off the ground. Supported by Crawl Control Mode, 219 mm ground clearance, and an 810 mm water wading capability. The Majestor is engineered for durability and reliability across the toughest terrains.
Safety
Safety remains a core pillar of the MG Majestor. The SUV is equipped with Level 2 ADAS, providing assisted steering, braking, and acceleration for enhanced driver confidence across conditions. Apart from this it is also equipped with a host of safety features like 360 Degree HD Camera, Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), integrating Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), and Roll Movement Intervention (RMI).
The MG Majestor will be offered in Sharp and Savvy variants across 2WD and 4WD drivetrains, in Pearl White, Concrete Grey, Metal Black, and Metal Ash. With the Majestor, JSW MG Motor India brings together rugged capability, uber premiumness, intelligent technology, and long-term reliability in one cohesive SUV, setting a new benchmark for large premium SUVs in India.
Peace-of-Mind
As part of MG’s Complete Peace of Mind Program, Majestor comes with an industry-leading 5-5-5 offering comprising 5 Year Unlimited KM Warranty, 5 Year Road-side Assistance, and 5 Labour-Free Services. Additionally, through a strategic partnership with ICICI Bank, customers will receive an exclusive invite for the ICICI Emeralde Credit Card at zero joining fee*. Early customers will also benefit from Priority Deliveries, access to Exclusive Previews across select cities in March 2026, and Invite-only Experiential Drives curated specially for Majestor owners.
The MG Majestor is available for pre-booking for a booking amount of INR 41,000 while full range pricing and market availability will be announced closer to launch.
Renault India has unveiled the new Renault Duster, marking the return of a nameplate that helped establish the mid-size SUV category in the country.
New Renault Duster marks the first product unveil under Renault Group’s International Game Plan in India, where the brand is prioritising targeted investment and product expansion as part of a broader global strategy.
“As part of the Renault International Game Plan 2027, we are making India a key pillar of our growth outside Europe. We now have a strong ecosystem in Chennai, bringing together design, engineering, manufacturing, and local operations at the highest level – making India one of the most complete and powerful hubs in Renault’s global network. Today, we have the means to fully support our ambitions in India, to better understand customer expectations, and to deliver products truly adapted to this market. The new Renault Duster is the first step in Renault’s renewal in India”, said Fabrice Cambolive, Chief Growth Officer Renault Group & CEO Renault brand.
New Renault Duster is made for India, with close to 90% of the car made specifically for India. It underpins the new Renault Group Modular Platform (RGMP). The platform is ultra-flexible in terms of dimensions, powertrains suited to google automotive system.
New Renault Duster is powered by a full range of powertrain options to access every Indian road and making the “unreachable reachable”. It is powered by a Turbo TCe 160 engine which churns out 163 PS of power and 280 Nm of torque, while Turbo TCe 100 is meant for smart and accessible segment.
New Renault Duster also marks the debut of the strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 engine, powered by 1.8L engine along with a 1.4 kWh battery, making it the most efficient and powerful hybrid, allowing up to 80% EV mode in city drive conditions.
The Turbo TCe 160 and Turbo TCe 100 petrol engines come paired with the 6-speed DCT with wet clutch available with Turbo TCe 160, delivers lightning fast‑ gear shifts for maximum performance and is utmost suitable for Indian driving condition. On the other hand, the 6-speed manual offers precise mechanical control with direct gear engagement for maximum driver command. Both options are engineered to bring out the best in the Duster combining performance, confidence, and driving pleasure.
“With the new Renault Group Modular Platform, Renault brings an advanced hybrid technology and top-tier safety engineering. With Renault Forever program, we also offer our customers a significantly improved ownership experience. New Renault Duster is the start of a renewed product cycle and for an exciting trajectory for Renault in India. Renault is back”, said Stéphane Deblaise, CEO, Renault Group India.
“New Renault Duster marks the rebirth of an icon. It is more than just a bold, authentic SUV; it’s a powerful statement of our design philosophy, meticulously shaped through the seamless collaboration of our design teams in India and in France. Every confident line, every modern and sculpted detail has been crafted to embody the spirit and aspirations of India, while resonating with Duster’s unique DNA”, said Laurens van den Acker, Chief Design Officer, Renault Group.
Customers can pre-book new Renault Duster by purchasing R Pass for INR 21,000. While the price of new Renault Duster will be announced mid-March, customer deliveries will begin in April 2026. The Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 deliveries to commence during Diwali 2026. New Renault Duster will be offered with seven years warranty for enhanced trust and peace of mind, thanks to Renault Forever programme.
Continental Tires, a leading global tyre manufacturer, marked the Indian launch of its new all-terrain product, the CrossContact A/T², with an adventurous Continental Tires’ Track Day at Dot Goa 4X4. With this, the country becomes one of the first few markets globally to introduce this next-generation product, which blends German engineering precision with rugged versatility to ensure a smooth ride across challenging terrains.
The highly anticipated launch of the CrossContact A/T² reiterates Continental’s growing commitment to the Indian market.
“India’s 4×4 vehicle segment is experiencing sharp growth, driven by a growing passion for adventure and long-distance travel. With our ‘In the Market, For the Market’ approach, we continually innovate to meet the demands of Indian road conditions and deliver enhanced driving experiences. The CrossContact A/T² delivers high performance across the diverse terrains and topographies that India offers,” said Samir Gupta, Managing Director, Continental Tires India.
He further added, “India is the first market globally to introduce the CrossContact A/T². This decision is a testament to Continental’s commitment to the Indian market. We remain committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions tailored to our Indian customers.”
CrossContact A/T²: Engineered for Performance. Designed for Adventure
Built for power, performance, and precision, the CrossContact A/T² is engineered for SUVs and 4x4s, offering superior grip across all surfaces: mud, gravel, sand, wet highways or rocky trails. Designed for modern, adventurous lifestyles, it brings a confident on-road feel and unshaken off-road capability. Key Technologies in CrossContact A/T²:
● BlackPaw™ Compound: Adaptive traction tech that maintains elasticity and control across hot, cold, dry, and wet surfaces.
● Self-Cleaning Shoulders: Open tread patterns and stone ejectors dislodge slush, mud, and debris to keep you moving clean and steady.
● Rigid Tread Block Geometry: Reduces hydroplaning and enhances braking efficiency with precisely angled groove design.
● Reinforced Sidewalls: Built tough to resist cuts, abrasions, and trail damage, ensuring long-term durability and control.
It is the world’s most successful compact sports car: the Golf GTI. The original in its class. More than 2.5 million units have been produced to date. In 2026, the Golf GTI will turn 50 – and this will be celebrated with a variety of national and international classic events, the exclusive anniversary model Golf GTI EDITION 501, and the world premiere of the first all-electric GTI.
A success story since 1976. When the Golf GTI was launched in 1976, no one could have guessed that the 81 kW (110 PS) Volkswagen, with its red grille surround, black wheel arch extensions and golf ball gear knob, would soon become the world’s most successful compact sports car. Only 5,000 units were planned, but in the first year alone dealers sold 10 times as many vehicles. In total, 461,690 first-generation Golf GTI cars were built.
It was the unusual overall package that struck a chord: a highly precise sports car for lonely Alpine passes and, at the same time, a practical companion for every day of the year, extremely economical and instantly a timeless style icon. The price was also a hit: 13,850 Deutschmarks in Germany. The media spoke of the democratisation of the sports car. And indeed, the performance of the 182 kmph Volkswagen was impressive: with a sprint from 0 to 100 kmph in just 9.0 seconds, the 1976 Golf GTI left behind numerous sports cars and coupés that were easily 10,000 Deutschmarks more expensive.
The DNA for the past 50 years – and for tomorrow. The unique interplay of agile engine, lightweight front-wheel drive, balanced chassis, perfectly fitting sports seats and crisp, no-frills design still characterises the Golf GTI today. It is this synthesis that Volkswagen has continuously refined over 50 years – making the Golf GTI an authentic sports car and the original in its class. The fact is: today, when people say GTI, they mean Volkswagen. The crowning glory of this world-famous product brand in the anniversary year 2026 is the Golf GTI EDITION 50 – the most powerful production Golf GTI to date, with 239 kW (325 PS). The anniversary model is already available to order in some European markets, with the first units to be delivered in 2026. Volkswagen has also proven that the GTI philosophy is successful in other model series, especially with the Polo GTI. In 2026, a new Polo GTI will take off: the ID. Polo GTI. With 166 kW (226 PS), it will transfer the GTI philosophy into the electric drive era for the first time – there could not have been a better debut year for the first electric GTI.
Classic GTI in Paris and Bremen. The first five decades of GTI will be the focus of various major classic events in 2026. The celebrations kick off from January 28 to February 1 in Paris at Rétromobile. The classic car show at the Port de Versailles will celebrate its 50th birthday in 2026, just like the Golf GTI. Almost simultaneously, the first German show for classic vehicles begins in the Hanseatic city of Bremen: the Bremen Classic Motorshow. Here, the Golf GTI will be in the spotlight from January 30 to February 2. Both shows are therefore not only the opening events for the European classic season 2026, but also for the GTI year 2026.
The Volkswagen Group is starting the next testing phase in Wolfsburg with its self-driving research vehicle Gen.Urban1. After intensive trials, the Gen.Urban can now drive autonomously in real urban traffic. The research project aims to explore how passengers experience riding in a self-driving vehicle without a traditional steering wheel or pedals – and what requirements this creates for future vehicle concepts.
An interdisciplinary team from Volkswagen Group Innovation, including designers, human factors specialists, software engineers, and materials experts, is gathering comprehensive data on user behaviour and interaction with the Gen.Urban. These findings will contribute to the development of future interior and user experience (UX) concepts across the Group’s brands.
Key questions include: How do people spend their time in a self-driving vehicle? Which digital features best support work, entertainment, or relaxation? How should interaction between the vehicle and passengers be designed, particularly for older people or children? Simply put: Do people feel comfortable?
Gen.Urban delivers a personalised driving experience even before the journey begins Even before departure, passengers can customise their preferences – via app or directly in the vehicle – from cabin temperature to ambient lighting. Upon entering, the Gen.Urban greets the passenger, and the seat automatically adjusts to the desired position. In addition, the vehicle’s digital interior can be tailored to individual preferences using artificial intelligence (AI). The wide front display with its information, light, and sound is then adapted to an individual theme.
Gen.Urban is designed without a traditional steering wheel or pedals. The test participant sits in the driver’s seat, while a trained safety driver monitors the vehicle from the passenger seat. If necessary, the safety driver can intervene at any time using a specially developed control panel with a joystick.
The current test phase initially involves Volkswagen Group employees and will last for a period of several weeks.
Dr. Nikolai Ardey, Head of Volkswagen Group Innovation, explains: “The technology for autonomous driving is making rapid progress. With our Gen.Urban research vehicle, we want to understand exactly how passengers experience autonomous driving. Why? Because the key to a positive customer experience is to build trust – through meaningful interaction, a relaxed atmosphere, and intelligent assistance systems that respond precisely to the needs of passengers. Ultimately, technology should fit people, not the other way around. We will benefit from these insights across the entire Group in the long term.”
Test route in Wolfsburg city area with typical traffic scenarios The starting point of the test route is the visitor parking lot at the HQ building. From there, the nearly ten-kilometre loop runs through Wolfsburg’s city area, passing the Sandkamp factory gate, Saar and Lessing streets, Brandenburger Platz, Breslauer Street, Grauhorststraße, and finally returning via Heinrich-Nordhoff-Street. Traffic light intersections, roundabouts, current construction sites, residential areas, industrial sections, and possibly congested traffic: the route is chosen to correspond to typical challenges of urban traffic. Each test drive lasts approximately 20 minutes.
The Flying Spur Speed has again demonstrated its exceptional performance in all conditions by setting a new ‘winter lap record’ at the world’s most northerly active race circuit.
The record was set at the Drivecenter Arena circuit in Fällfors, northern Sweden – just 100 miles from the Arctic Circle, and a former military airbase. Despite the entirety of the 2.05-mile track being covered in 12-inch of ice and snow, the Flying Spur Speed was able to complete laps in under three minutes, with the best time standing at 2:58 – the quickest any vehicle has lapped the facility in winter conditions, ever. The Flying Spur’s variable four-wheel drive system and rear-wheel steering combined to give the car outstanding agility in the conditions, and peak speed was 120 mph during the record run despite the longest straight being only 450 metres long and covered in sheet ice.
The record was inspired by a combination of previous events from Bentley’s history – the two Ice Speed Records captured by Bentley in 2007 and 2011, and the one-hour endurance record set by a Turbo R at Millbrook Proving Ground in the UK in 1986 where 140 mph was averaged around the banked bowl. While the conditions mirrored those of the Ice Speed Records, the car that was used – registration Y15 BML – has a specification matched to the Turbo R in Bentley’s Heritage Collection. Identical Brooklands Green paintwork, yellow fine lines, and an interior in Linen, Cumbrian Green and Open Pore Walnut were specified to mark the Turbo R’s 40th birthday this year.
The Flying Spur Speed is a car designed to deliver exceptional driving performance in all conditions, thanks to its Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain and advanced chassis systems. An advanced 600 PS 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 is combined with a 190 PS electric motor that is neatly integrated within the 8-speed dual clutch transmission. In Sport Mode this powertrain deploys a full 782 PS and 1,000 Nm, with the instant torque of the E-motor complementing the charismatic cross-plane beat of the V8.
In pure EV mode, the E-motor provides 190 PS and 450 Nm of torque, more than enough to keep up with the traffic in most situations, while the 25.9 kWh battery offers up to 47 miles (76 km) of usable electric-only range (on the EU drive cycle). Together, the V8 and E-motor provide the new Flying Spur with a total range of 515 miles (829 km). Full electric mode can be deployed at speeds of up to 87 mph / 140 kmph, with throttle applications of up to 75 per cent.
The Bentley Performance Active Chassis comes as standard with the Flying Spur Speed. Features of the sophisticated new setup include Bentley Dynamic Ride and All-Wheel Steering, along with an electronically controlled Limited Slip Differential, while a new generation of ESC software permits a range of driving styles to be accessed and provides reliable traction in all conditions – though the record was asset with the system completely switched off.
With the new car’s rear-biased weight distribution of 48.3 : 51.7, the chassis systems and ESC have a mechanically-optimised platform in which to provide the final refinement. The system uses active torque vectoring front to rear through a centre differential, and precision vectoring across each axle using the brakes, to provide exceptional traction in all conditions – vital for a fast lap on snow-covered sheet ice.
