Tag: new car launch

BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine M Sport Pro Edition launched in India at ₹62.6 lakh

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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BMW India has launched the new 3 Series Gran Limousine M Sport Pro Edition, which is available at all dealerships and the BMW Online shop. The car, manufactured locally at the BMW Group Plant in Chennai, comes in the 330Li petrol variant, with an ex-showroom price of ₹62.6 lakh.

The car is offered in four metallic paintworks – Mineral White, Skyscraper Grey, Carbon Black, and Portimao Blue. It comes with illuminated door sill plates, a design element at the centre console, and standard M Headliner Anthracite upholstery. The driver and front passenger seats are electrically adjustable and upholstered in leather.

The BMW 330Li M Sport Pro Edition is powered by a two-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that produces an output of 258 hp and torque of 400 Nm. The German automaker claims the car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/hr in just 6.2 seconds.

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Vikram Pawah, President of BMW Group India, described the car as a “modern masterpiece” with sporty proportions, dynamic performance, advanced technology, and a spacious interior. He added that the limited edition will appeal to young, progressive Indian buyers.

The car features an eight-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission and comes with steering wheel paddle shifters and cruise control with braking function.

Equipped with a Curved Display operating on the BMW Operating System 8, the car also boasts features like Personal Assistant, Park Assistant, Surround View Camera, App connectivity, and Blind Spot Detection for lane changes, and front and rear collisions. Additionally, it includes a Harman Kardon Surround Sound system with 16 loudspeakers.

The new BMW also incorporates features such as Auto Start-Stop, Brake-Energy Regeneration, Electronic Power Steering, and several drive modes. Safety is ensured by six airbags, Attentiveness Assistance, Dynamic Stability Control, and Cornering Brake Control.

Also Read: Navratri aids car and two-wheeler sales in April, but there are challenges to sustained growth

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

Maruti Suzuki says the all new Swift offers 14% better mileage — check prices and features

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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India’s largest carmaker Maruti Suzuki has unveiled the fourth generation of Swift, one of the company’s most successful models that’s been on Indian streets since 2005.

Hisashi Takeuchi, MD & CEO, MSIL, at the launch event, said, “In 2005, when the first Swift was launched, I was in Head Office of Suzuki Japan and I was very eager for its success. And all through 2 decades, Swift has delivered unparalleled delight to millions of customers across geographies.”

The starting (introductory) price of the all-new Swift is ₹6.49 lakh (ex-showroom). Maruti is inviting buyers to pre-book the latest hatchback with an initial payment of ₹11,000.

The pricing puts Swift in competition with micro-SUVs like Tata Punch and Hyundai Exter. Here’s the list of Maruti Swift’s various variants and their prices (ex-showroom, Delhi):

Also Read: Hero MotoCorp to launch Xoom 125 cc and Xoom 160 cc scooters ahead of festive season

Takeuchi further added, “I am thrilled to share that so far Swift has garnered the love of nearly 6.5 million customers across 169 countries. It is even more exciting to know that over 46%, that is nearly 3 million customers are from India.”

These are some of the features that the Gurugram-based company promises to offer in the all-new Swift compared to the older model:

The engine inside is the 1.2-litre, three-cylinder Z-Series variant.

The manual transmission promises 10 miles more for every 100 whereas the automatic variant will offer 14% better mileage.

Emissions will be 12% less than the earlier model.

All variants of the fourth-generation Swift will come with six airbags.

All seats will have three-point belts and seatbelt reminders.

The new Swift features a new dashboard layout and a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

The exterior changes include angular headlights, a revised grille, and updated tail lamps.

The car will be available in nine colours, including six mono-tone and three dual-tone options.

The dual-tone options are available for the new Maruti Swift at an additional cost of ₹15,000.

Despite a recent price hike, Maruti Suzuki’s yearly sales volume has surpassed two million units, showing a significant increase in net profit for FY24.

The new Swift faces competition from micro-SUVs like Tata Punch and Hyundai Exter in terms of pricing.

Also Read: India sees record petrol and diesel consumption on vehicle sales, EVs yet to catch up speed

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

BMW India launches M4 Competition M xDrive at Rs 1.54 crore, features TwinPower Turbo engine

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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BMW India has introduced the M4 Competition M xDrive, priced at Rs 1.54 crore (ex-showroom). The car, available as a Completely Built-Up (CBU) model, can be booked at a BMW dealership or through the BMW Online Shop.

Vikram Pawah, President of BMW Group India, in a company statement, said, “The new BMW M4 Competition M xDrive truly embodies the best of BMW M – unstoppable power, incredible handling, and sporty styling. The car radiates superior dynamism and premium appeal, underlining its independent, performance-oriented personality. It is indeed an elite sporting icon.”

The M4 Competition M xDrive is powered by the TwinPower Turbo S58 six-cylinder in-line petrol engine, delivering 530PS, an increase of 20PS over the previous model. The torque remains at 650Nm. The power is transmitted through an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission. The car accelerates to 100 kmph in 3.5 seconds, with a top speed of 250 kmph, extendable to 290 kmph with the optional M Driver’s Package.

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The Setup button on the centre console provides instant access to engine, chassis, steering, and brake system settings, as well as traction control. The engine’s characteristics can be adjusted using Efficient, Sport, and Sport Plus settings, while the Comfort, Sport, or Sport Plus chassis mode controls the electronically controlled damper settings.

The new M4 is a slightly updated version of the current-gen M4 Competition. The main aesthetic enhancements are updated LED headlights and taillights, and a new set of arrow-shaped Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) that also function as turn indicators.

Inside, the driver will find a flat-bottom leather steering wheel with a red stripe, with an Alcantara microsuede steering wheel also available. The M4 retains its dual-screen infotainment and instrumentation displays, measuring 14.9 and 12.3 inches respectively, now operating on BMW Operating System 8.5.

Also Read: Hyundai and Kia set to launch first hybrid cars in India by 2026

Additional features include a wireless charger, head-up display, smartphone integration, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. Options include the Driving Assistant Professional, Parking Assistant Plus with 360 Degree Camera, Steering and Lane Control Assistant, and the BMW Drive Recorder.

Safety features include head and side airbags for the driver and front passenger, head airbags for rear seats, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including ABS, Automatic Stability Control (ASC), M Dynamic Mode (MDM), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Dry Braking function, and Active M Differential.

Also Read: Mahindra unveils XUV 3XO with Level 2 ADAS features, starting at ₹7.49 lakh

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

Anand Mahindra to critics: ‘Your scepticism fuels our fire,’ responds by launching XUV 3XO amidst competition

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Business tycoon Anand Mahindra thanked a person on social media for his “scepticism” after he told the Mahindra Group Chairman that his cars “can’t compete with Japanese or Americans in their land”.

This came after Mahindra introduced its much-awaited Mahindra XUV 3XO in the Indian market on Monday.

Unveiling the first look of the compact SUV, Mahindra wrote on social media site X, “It’s here. Prices start at ₹7.49 lakh. The revolution begins. #MahindraXUV3XO”.

In the comment section, a person wrote, “Your cars can’t compete with Japanese or Americans in their land. Enjoy import substitution policies while they last. Mahindra will disappear as tariffs get reduced.”

Thank you for your skepticism.

It only fuels the fire in our bellies.

I was told exactly the same thing when I joined the company in 1991.

Global consultants advised us to exit the industry.

We were told the same thing when Toyota and other global giants in the UV space… https://t.co/oYMBO6HcWk

— anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) April 29, 2024

In reply, Mahindra noted that he was told the same thing when he first joined the group in 1991. He added that the company hoped to be around for the next 100 years, noting that every day is a fight for survival.

“Thank you for your scepticism. It only fuels the fire in our bellies. I was told the same thing when I joined the company in 1991. Global consultants advised us to exit the industry,” he wrote.

“We were told the same thing when Toyota and other global giants in the UV space entered India. But we’re still around. Every day is a fight for survival. And we relish it. We hope to be around for the next 100 years, still fighting—every single day—for your approval,” the 68-year-old added.

About XUV 3XO

On Monday, Mahindra launched the XUV 3XO, which is a facelift version of the XUV 300. The price starts from ₹7.49 lakh (ex-showroom). The new model, available in five trims, boasts a significantly revamped design, a new cabin, an array of added features and an updated automatic gearbox.

The company has substantially redesigned the XUV 3XO’s exterior, which features a new gloss black grille and LED headlights reminiscent of the XUV700.

The rear has been completely revamped and now has a connected LED tail lamp and bold ‘XUV 3XO’ badging. Meanwhile, its number plate housing has been relocated to the rear bumper.

The XUV 3XO is available in the Indian market in a total of 18 variants, with the top-end model — AX7 L variant — priced at ₹15.49 lakh (ex-showroom).

Also Read: Mahindra unveils XUV 3XO with Level 2 ADAS features, starting at ₹7.49 lakh

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

Mahindra unveils XUV 3XO with Level 2 ADAS features, starting at ₹7.49 lakh

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

Listen to the Article (6 Minutes)

Mahindra has unveiled the XUV 3XO, a facelift of the 2024 XUV300, with prices starting from ₹7.49 lakh (ex-showroom). The new model, available in five trims, features a significantly revamped design, a new cabin, an array of added features and an updated automatic gearbox.

The XUV 3XO’s exterior has been substantially redesigned, with a new gloss black grille and LED headlights reminiscent of the XUV700. The rear has been completely revamped, now featuring connected LED tail lamps and bold ‘XUV 3XO’ badging. The number plate housing has been relocated to the rear bumper.

Veejay Nakra, President – Automotive Division, Mahindra & Mahindra, in a company statement, said, “With the launch of the XUV 3XO, starting at an attractive price of ₹7.49 lakh, Mahindra is redefining what an SUV can be… From those upgrading from a hatchback to their first SUV to luxury seekers looking for high-end features at a competitive price, the XUV 3XO offers a unique blend of innovation, safety, comfort, and performance.”

Inside, the XUV 3XO boasts a new dashboard borrowed from the updated XUV400 EV, a large floating touchscreen infotainment system, sleek central AC vents and updated dual-zone climate control. The steering wheel retains its previous design but now features gloss black inserts.

The XUV 3XO comes with a host of new features, including a segment-first panoramic sunroof, a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, connected car tech and a 7-speaker Harman / Kardon sound system. It also includes Level-2 ADAS, which offers lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control and autonomous emergency braking.

The vehicle continues to offer dual-zone climate control, cruise control, keyless entry with push-button start, six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control and front and rear parking sensors, all carried over from the outgoing XUV300.

R Velusamy, President, Automotive Technology and Product Development, Mahindra & Mahindra, said, “Built on a durable, well-tested platform, it (XUV 3XO) is engineered to meet the highest global safety standards, including the B-NCAP. The XUV 3XO also meets the benchmarks established by our XUV700 – offering best-in-class forward visibility and the quietness of its gasoline variant is comparable to that of the gasoline.”

Under the bonnet, the XUV 3XO offers a choice of a 130PS 1.2-litre T-GDI turbo-petrol engine or a 117PS 1.5-litre diesel engine. The base 110PS 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine previously offered has been discontinued. A 6-speed manual is standard, with an optional 6-speed torque converter available for the T-GDI turbo-petrol engine. The diesel engine continues with its 6-speed AMT.

Here’s a look at the detailed specifications:

• The 1.2-litre Turbo-petrol engine delivers a power of 110PS and a torque of 200Nm. It is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission.
• The 1.2-litre T-GDI Turbo-petrol engine delivers a power of 130PS and a torque of up to 250Nm. It is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission or an optional 6-speed torque converter.
• The 1.5-litre Diesel engine delivers a power of 117PS and a torque of 300Nm. It is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed AMT.

The Mahindra XUV 3XO competes with the Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Kia Sonet and Nissan Magnite.

Here’s the variant-specific price list:

*Variant also available in Diesel AutoSHIFT+ at an additional cost of ₹0.80 lakh

**Variant also available in TCMPFi AT at an additional cost of ₹1.50 lakh

***Variant also available in TGDi AT at an additional cost of ₹1.50 lakh

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

Lamborghini’s V10 era ends with 2024’s limited-edition Huracan STJ

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Italian luxury sports car manufacturer Lamborghini is set to replace the V-10 engine Huracan with the 2024 Lamborghini Huracan STJ, a limited-edition variant of the Huracan STO.

Only 10 units of this model will be produced, each featuring a carbon fibre identification plate displaying its build number.

The STJ, standing for ‘Jota’, is inspired by the Huracans used in Lamborghini’s one-make series, the Super Trofeo. The ‘Jota’ refers to Appendix J of the FIA rulebook, which outlines the specifications for touring and GT cars.

The STJ, which offers exclusivity and improved performance over the STO, will come equipped with a unique aero package, including additional scoop-like wings on the bumper, a more aggressive rear wing angle for increased downforce, and adjustable race-derived shocks with special tuning.

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It also features unique Bridgestone Potenza Race compounds. These modifications reportedly shave a second off the STO’s lap time at the Nardò Technical Center Handling Track.

The Huracan STJ is powered by the same 5.2-litre naturally aspirated V10 as the Huracan STO. This powertrain churns out 630hp of power and 565Nm torque. It is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox powering the rear wheels.

The STJ also uses special Bridgestone Potenza racing tyres installed on 20-inch single-nut rims. Moreover, a new set of race-derived, four-way adjustable shock absorbers has been fitted, which allows for increased stiffness and improved handling.

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Two liveries are available for the STJ: Grigio Telesto with a Nero Noctis roof and Rosso Mars and Bianco Isi details, or Blu Eliadi with the same secondary colours. The interior is black Alcantara with red contrasting stitching.

Pricing details are yet to be announced, but with only 10 units being made, they are expected to be claimed quickly. The Huracan’s replacement is anticipated to be powered by a 4.0-litre, twin-turbo V-8 with a performance-enhancing hybrid system.

Also Read: Tata Punch tops March sales, Hyundai Creta close second, Maruti slips to No. 3 for the first time

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow