Tag Archives: August

Change in management at MINI model

Munich. The BMW Group has introduced a change in personnel on the helm of the MINI model. Effective 1 August 2024, Stefan Richmann will take over administration of MINI from Stefanie Wurst, who has held this place since 1 February 2022. 

In current years, Stefanie Wurst has strategically efficiently targeted the British premium model MINI on new markets and goal teams, and particularly on electrical mobility and digitalization. She has additionally developed the worldwide MINI gross sales organisation right into a sustainable and customer-focused gross sales mannequin and has performed a decisive position within the phased introduction of MINI direct gross sales in China and Europe.

Wurst constructed on the MINI model’s sturdy heritage, whereas on the similar time realigning it for the longer term. With the rollout of the New MINI Family, the model is at present at a excessive level in its 65-year historical past. Three fashions with sturdy characters, the MINI Cooper*, MINI Aceman* and MINI Countryman*, embody the digitalisation of services and products, electrification of the model and MINI’s signature go-kart feeling.

Jochen Goller, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG answerable for Customer, Brands, Sales: “We would like to thank Stefanie Wurst for her great personal commitment and her valuable contribution to MINI’s future direction. With Stefan Richmann, a senior executive of the BMW Group with many years of experience in Germany and abroad, will take over the management of the MINI brand from August.”

Richmann started his profession on the BMW Group in 1997. Since then, he has held quite a few managerial positions inside the firm. In 2000, he moved to Corporate Strategic Planning and, in 2004, was appointed head of Sales Controlling. From 2008, Richmann was answerable for the funds of BMW Spain as CFO. He returned to Munich on the finish of 2010, the place he fulfilled a number of additional administration roles within the Finance and Controlling division and Product Management at BMW Group headquarters. From 2017, Richmann served as CFO within the US. In April 2022, he took over as head of the Corporate Strategy division. 

BMW Group Corporate Communications

Andreas Lampka, head of MINI Communications

Telephone: +49 89 382-23662

Email: andreas.lampka@MINI.com

Eckhard Wannieck, head of Communications BMW Group, Finance, Sales

Telephone: +49 89 382-24544

Email: eckhard.wannieck@bmwgroup.com

Media web site: www.press.bmwgroup.com/deutschland

Email: presse@bmwgroup.com

 

2025 Infiniti QX80: This Is It

We would not be shocked in the event you double-check our Infiniti QX Monograph concept post from August 2023. The automobile you see right here seems just about similar, from the vertically-oriented nook vents and lights flanking the massive grille, to the black roof, and even the flush door handles. There is one notable distinction, nonetheless. This is not an idea. It’s Infiniti’s new QX80 three-row SUV. And there’s a lot to debate.

The Anti-Wedge

We will not spend a lot time on the outside styling. This primarily is the Monograph idea in manufacturing type, stretching 17.5 toes nose-to-tail with its chunky physique mounted on an old-school body. In truth, Infiniti makes it a degree to speak in regards to the QX80’s very upright stature, calling it an “anti-wedge profile” with a hood that is almost flat because it extends ahead.

2025 Infiniti QX80
2025 Infiniti QX80
2025 Infiniti QX80

As with the Monograph idea, an illuminated Infiniti brand holds station within the double-arch grille. The tall greenhouse stands out with black trim and an out there black roof, whereas down low, electrically-powered flush door handles lengthen when the SUV is unlocked.

The cumbersome exterior interprets to extra room on the within. Infiniti does not have particular figures to share simply but, except for 161.1 cubic toes of complete passenger house. Compared to the outgoing mannequin, we’re advised there’s 18 p.c extra space behind the second-row seats and 54 p.c behind the third. A two-row model is not supplied.

We did not see the Monograph idea’s inside, however now we want we had. It’s a really good-looking leather-clad cockpit with the range-topping Autograph trim getting semi-aniline quilted seats complemented with wooden and aluminum trim. As you’d count on, instrumentation is a digital affair with two 14.3-inch show screens merged to create a large show occupying many of the sprint. A 3rd display screen measuring 9.0 inches sits on the entrance of the middle console, tilted as much as function the bottom of operations for the QX80’s local weather controls, heated/cooled seat capabilities, and drive modes.

2025 Infiniti QX80 Interior

The smaller display screen makes use of haptic suggestions when numerous capabilities are operated, giving the motive force a minimum of some tactile sensations when doing issues like turning up the warmth. Infiniti does not clarify the system additional or if the suggestions modifications relying on what you are touching. But this is not a wholly buttonless affair. The steering wheel gives some tactile controls, together with the means to change up the motive force show by means of a variety of appearances. And gear choice is achieved by means of a set of buttons on the middle console.

And the QX80 has no scarcity of issues to regulate. Of specific curiosity is an assortment of cameras that provide all types of views each exterior and inside, together with one thing known as Front Wide View. It takes digital camera info and creates a 170-degree ahead view that shows on each screens, giving the motive force the flexibility to see round parked automobiles in keeping with Infiniti. There’s additionally an Invisible Hood view that gives a glance immediately in entrance of the QX80, and we imply proper in entrance. It’s helpful for seeing obstacles close to the entrance tires, or how shut you’re to a parking curb.

A characteristic known as Enhanced RoundView is actually a tweaked exterior 360-degree digital camera that aids with parking and tight conditions. In-car cameras present front-seat passengers what’s taking place within the again, and it is also accessible by means of a smartphone so you possibly can take a peek anytime. And as a result of we dwell in a linked society that may’t perform with out social media, Infiniti has one thing known as Journey Diary. This will seize pictures or movies from forward-facing or in-car cameras and add them to your social channels, for higher or worse.

2025 Infiniti QX80 Interior

The tech prepare does not cease with cameras. The QX80 actually retains passengers cool with Biometric Cooling—infrared sensors situated within the headliner detect when somebody is sizzling and robotically adjusts particular person local weather settings. Heated and cooled seats additionally assistance on that entrance, and within the new QX80, you will discover heated seats manner again within the third row. Massaging seats can be found for second-row passengers, and everybody can profit from a 24-speaker, 1,200-watt Klipsch audio system. It’s optionally available on all however the range-topping Autograph trim, however the usual system remains to be a 14-speaker rig with 600 watts.

Infiniti InContact with Google Built-In runs the present. Wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto are commonplace, as are a bunch of Infiniti driver help and security techniques that include ProPilot 1.1 Upgrade to ProPilot 2.1 and you will get hands-free driving in sure conditions. There’s an optionally available heads-up show for the primary time, too.

More Power, More Gears, More Money

There’s lots to maintain passengers occupied, however what in regards to the driver? Gone is the previous 5.6-liter V-8 engine, changed with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 making 450 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. That’s a notable enhance over the V-8, and it sends energy to both the rear wheels or all 4 by means of a 9-speed computerized transmission. Infiniti says the body-on-frame development has 57 p.c extra lateral stiffness versus the previous mannequin, and when outfitted with the air experience suspension, the QX80 lowers itself 1.2 inches at increased pace for higher effectivity. When parked, it will possibly drop 2.8 inches to assist of us get out and in.

2025 Infiniti QX80

Making the many of the QX80’s energy bump are 5 drive modes: Standard, Eco, Sport, Snow, and Tow. If none of these fit your tastes, a sixth mode for customized settings is included. Speaking of customization, you possibly can tweak the inside lighting with 64 colours that shine by means of LED lights within the doorways and sprint. Nine exterior colours can be found at launch, and you may select wheels as much as 22 inches in dimension. Should you have to tow, the QX80 is rated for 8,500 kilos.

At launch, the 2025 Infiniti QX80 is accessible in 4 trims: Pure, Luxe, Sensory, and Autograph. Here’s a value breakdown per trim, together with a compulsory $1,995 vacation spot price.

Model Price
2025 Infiniti QX80 Pure RWD $84,445
2025 Infiniti QX80 Pure 4WD $87,545
2025 Infiniti QX80 Luxe RWD $91,545
2025 Infiniti QX80 Luxe 4WD $94,645
2025 Infiniti QX80 Sensory 4WD $102,640
2025 Infiniti QX80 Autograph 4WD $112,590

The new QX80 is actually costlier than the outgoing mannequin—considerably extra in range-topping Autograph guise. By comparability, the BMW X7 slots neatly into the Infiniti’s value vary. However, the Lexus LX600 nonetheless instructions a bit extra general with costs reaching past $130,000.

Will consumers shell out extra cash than ever for this new Infiniti flagship? We will discover out later this summer time when the 2025 QX80 goes on sale.

Ford Paying Some 7.3L Engine Owners Up To $300 For Overstating Power Figures

Ford revealed again in August 2023 some Ford Super Duty vans and E-Series-based autos powered by the 7.3-liter “Godzilla” V8 engine have both 15 or 25 much less horsepower than initially marketed. The firm is at present sending notifications to house owners that supply some monetary compensation for the error.

According to Ford Special Field Action 22L03 despatched to sellers final summer season, the error impacts 161,512 autos within the United States overlaying the 2021 and 2022 mannequin years. Specifically, Ford lists Super Duty vans (together with chassis cabs), F650/F750 vans, and F53/F59 chassis vans as having 15 much less hp. For E-Series autos, the drop is 25 hp and 18 pound-feet of torque. All affected autos even have a lowered rated engine pace of 150 RPM.

2021 Ford E-Series

The Special Field Action seems to deal with industrial autos. Though E-Series and Super Duty vans usually are listed, Ford particularly mentions the F53 Motor Home, F59 Step Van, and others with a “premium rated” 7.3-liter V8. The notification would not point out authentic energy figures, however Ford presents its Godzilla engine with a extra economical tune for industrial use that’s at present rated at 325 hp for the E-Series and 335 hp within the vans. Jumping again to 2021, we see a 350-hp ranking for the engine.

It appears the snafu is not a mechanical challenge, however a miscommunication within the advertising and marketing supplies that did not embody revised energy figures. As such, there is not any point out of a repair so as to add within the energy that was initially marketed, although at least one affected vehicle owner took to YouTube to vent frustration over that. Instead, Ford is providing Super Duty house owners $100 for the error. And since E-Series house owners misplaced extra energy and a little bit of torque, the provide goes as much as $300 for them.

We contacted Ford about this, asking whether or not the revised energy output additionally impacts towing or cargo capability. We additionally enquired about the potential for a mechanical change or new engine tune to deliver energy as much as the marketed stage. Lest we neglect, the 7.3-liter V8 makes 430 hp in HD pickups. In the palms of Ford Performance, the Megazilla mill pumps out 615 hp. There’s definitely potential to open up the faucets a bit extra. We’ve but to listen to again, however we’ll plug in an replace when contemporary data arrives.

Is a $100 or $300 examine sufficient of an olive department to fulfill affected house owners? We cannot fault Ford for admitting to its mistake, as we suspect only a few folks will ever run their rigs on a chassis dyno to gauge energy output. Let us know your tackle Ford’s method to the difficulty within the feedback.

It Took Lamborghini 435 Hours To Hand-Paint This Funky Revuelto

Remember the snazzy Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato that debuted in August? It was known as Opera Unica, and it took 370 hours to finish its extraordinarily detailed paint job. That’s the equal of working 15 days straight. It took a bit longer to decorate up the Huracán’s huge brother in an analogous go well with. Say whats up to the Lamborghini Revuelto Opera Unica.

Presented on Wednesday at Art Basel Miami Beach 2023, Lamborghini says the intricate exterior required 435 hours to complete. That’s 18 days on the dot. The customized inside added one other 220 hours to the mission. It’s not a carbon copy of the Huracán Sterrato Opera Unica, both. This one incorporates purple and black – particularly, Viola Pasifae and Nero Helene – amid streaks of crimson, blue, and different shades.

Lamborghini Revuelto Opera Unica

Moving inside, you may discover a two-tone leather-based inside with extra purple and black – this time Viola Acutus and Nero Ade – incorporating an analogous theme with streaks of heat and funky colours scattered about. There are sixtieth anniversary logos stitched into the headliner, door inserts, and headrests. To be sure you comprehend the extent of element executed for this mission, Lamborghini particularly mentions the colourful brushstrokes on the beginning/cease cowl. 

“We wanted to create something purely artistic using brushes and a combination of colors, as if the Revuelto was a canvas,” mentioned Lamborghini Design Director Mitja Borkert. “That is what fueled our inspiration for this special livery. With the dynamic hand-painted exterior we
really emphasize the aerodynamics and speed of the car.”

Lamborghini Revuelto Opera Unica
Lamborghini Revuelto Opera Unica
Lamborghini Revuelto Opera Unica

One would possibly argue that the Revuelto wants no such emphasis. Its edgy physique has extra scoops than a sketchy tabloid, and the design seems imported straight from the thirty first century. If the visuals aren’t sufficient, there is a screaming 6.5-liter V12 tucked behind the motive force for good measure. Fused with three electrical motors, the Revuelto creates a mixed 1,001 horsepower. Lamborghini says it is sufficient for the hypercar to achieve 60 mph in an estimated 2.6 seconds, en path to a 217-mph high pace.

We suspect this explicit instance won’t ever see such velocities. It will likely be seen, nonetheless, because it’s on show for Art Basel to assist Lamborghini rejoice its sixtieth anniversary earlier than it heads to its new proprietor. Yes, Lamborghini offered this one-off to 1 very rich collector for over than $1 million.

Toyota Has Manufactured 300 Million Cars in 88 Years

In August 1935, Toyota manufactured its very first vehicle, the G1 pickup truck. This truck was assembled by the automotive production division of Toyoda Automatic Loom Works. Initially, the company was focused on producing automatic looms and was founded in 1926. However, in 1937, the car production division became a separate entity known as the Toyota Motor Corporation. Interestingly, Toyota Industries still produces automatic looms in 2023.

Now, fast forward to today, where Toyota is celebrating a significant milestone in its history. After 88 years since the production of its first truck, Toyota proudly announces the production of 300 million cars. Although the announcement was made today, this impressive accomplishment was actually achieved by the end of September.

Toyota FJ Cruiser Reboot To Get Gasoline And Hybrid Power: Report

According to a report, Toyota is planning to revive the FJ Cruiser with gasoline and hybrid powertrain options. The revival of the popular SUV was hinted at during the 2024 Land Cruiser presentation, where two shadowy silhouettes of unknown SUVs were shown. One of them strongly resembled an FJ Cruiser. In addition, a trademark for the name “Land Hopper” was recently filed in Japan, further suggesting the upcoming release of a compact off-roader.

Best Car magazine in Japan claims that a smaller Land Cruiser model will be launched, positioned below the existing 250 and 300 models. It is expected to have similar styling to the larger models and be roughly the same size as the Corolla Cross, a compact crossover measuring 176.1 inches long, 71.9 inches wide, and 64.9 inches tall. While the Corolla Cross has a unibody construction, the Land Hopper is rumored to ride on a body-on-frame platform based on the shortened GA-F architecture borrowed from the 250 and 300 models.

Toyota SUVs teaser (modified)

However, the most intriguing information from the report is about the powertrain options. Contrary to expectations of an all-electric drivetrain, Toyota is allegedly planning to offer the Land Hopper with gasoline and hybrid powertrains. This comes as a surprise, considering that the Compact Cruiser concept unveiled in late 2021 was an electric vehicle.

According to Best Car magazine, while an electric variant might be introduced in a few years, the initial versions of the Land Hopper will be available with gasoline and hybrid options. The publication suggests that the Land Hopper could borrow its powertrains from the Corolla Cross, such as the 1.8-liter gasoline and hybrid setups, or from the larger RAV4, which offers a 2.0-liter gasoline and 2.5-liter hybrid configuration.

What An Electric Acura NSX Needs To Corner The Electric Supercar Market

In August, Acura debuted a brand-new concept car and dubbed it an “electrifying design study with thrilling performance proportions.” The future car, the Honda-owned company said, would help steer Acura toward its zero-emission future. It isn’t difficult to deduce what hovers on the horizon is an all-electric sports car. The brief sneak peek at the sleek and futuristic step forward looked a whole lot like Acura’s famed NSX.

Acura’s NSX stunned the auto world when it hit the market in the late 1980s in its first iteration. The car, inspired by Formula 1 tech and tested by motorsport legends, left its mark by offering one of the fastest drives on the Japanese Domestic Market. The second iteration’s latest launch included a decent performance at a steep price compared to rivals. With 2022 Acura NSX reviews in mind, there are a few things an electric version could improve on to revive the NSX’s reputation.

Related: 10 Electric Sports Cars We Can’t Wait To Drive In The Future

A High Top Speed Is The Key To Break Records

A front shot of a silver 2022 Acura NSX Type S driving on track
Acura

The hybrid 2022 Acura NSX reached a top speed of 191 MPH. The beloved car’s reaction time is quicker than some competitors, but not by much. The 2022 model has an acceleration rate of 2.9 seconds from 0 to 60 MPH. The 2024 Mercedes-AMG GT, in comparison, is said to reach 60 MPH in just under three seconds and the 2021 version hits a high speed of 202 MPH.

The second-generation of the NSX failed to live up to expectations for many. Although it had fast speed — both in acceleration and top speed — its competitors also had those exact numbers, if not better ones. With a previously stellar reputation synonymous with speed, the NSX’s name took a bit of a beating. Just now announcing the manufacturer’s first series of electric vehicles, Honda is a bit behind when it comes to introducing the latest and greatest in electric technology. That doesn’t mean it can’t repair the NSX’s fleeting reputation all while trying its hand at leading the electrification of the auto industry.

Once holding the title as the quickest car on the Japanese auto market in the 1990s, the early models of the sports car set the bar high. With its aerodynamic body, the NSX-like concept from Acura looks promising for performance. If it wants to stand out among the top-performing track cars today, though, it must not trade speed in for sustainability.

Related: 10 EVs That Can Outrun The World’s Best Supercars

The Electric NSX Needs A Competitive Price Tag

Acura Performance Electric Vision Concept
Acura

One of the biggest complaints from recent NSX models was the hefty price tag attached. The 2022 hybrid sports car came in at $171,495. Competitors, however, had similar price tags with both better stats and a luxury name attached. If an electric NSX wants a leg up on luxury names like McLaren, Mercedes, and Audi, a reasonable price is a necessity. The 2023 Audi R8, for example, starts at $161,395 and offers around the same acceleration time and a higher top speed.

How the 2022 Acura NSX’s Price Compared To Rivals

Model

2022 Acura NSX

2021 Mercedes-AMG GT

2023 Audi R8

Price

$171,495

$119,650

$161,395

Horsepower

600 horsepower

577 horsepower

562 horsepower

Torque

495 pound-feet

516 pound-feet

406 pound-feet

Top Speed

191 MPH

202 MPH

200-204 MPH

Acceleration

2.9 seconds

2.9 seconds

3.4-3.5 seconds

The electric car market has a range of prices. However, the electric sports car sector ranges from $45,000 to upwards of hundreds of thousands of dollars, if not soaring above the one million mark. The 2024 Rimac Nevera, for example, starts at a whopping $2,200,000. With this broad range in price and performance, an electric Acura NSX has some breathing room for pricing. That being said, there has been a significant push to bring down the cost of electric vehicles — and that isn’t just limited to everyday drives. The rumors swirling about a $25,000 Tesla would shake up everything previously assumed about the market. Although not built for peak performance, the potential for a Tesla in the affordable electric vehicle space means the value of luxury names may be reevaluated. Acura must situate an all-electric sports car strategically for it to fly off the shelves.

Related: How Electric Sports Cars Will Change The Automotive Landscape

A V-6 Sound Is Necessary To Satisfy Auto Aficionados

Acura Performance Electric Vision Concept
Acura

The 2022 Acura NSX had a hybrid powertrain going for it. That characteristic sound, however, will be missed in an all-electric version. While drivers of the 2022 model could switch back and forth — minimizing the sound in residential areas and ramping it up on the racetrack — an all-electric powertrain wouldn’t offer that loud roar.

Electric vehicle technology has thankfully evolved to suit all types of automotive enthusiasts, including those with a love for a blaring motor. Cars like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and the Dodge Charger Daytona SRT come with added artificial noise to keep the tradition and driving experience alive. While non-auto fans may have raised an eyebrow at the addition, or even deemed it contradictory, it ultimately widens the reach of the electric vehicle industry. Traditionalists have long debated how the rapid electrification of the market will impact the engines of the past. Now, it seems the best of both worlds are at play.

Related: 10 Electric Cars We’ll Take Over A Lamborghini Any Day

It Needs To Boast At Least 300 Miles Of Range

Acura Performance Electric Vision Concept
Acura

While speed is a priority, electric vehicles available today don’t skimp on driving range. The 2024 Audi e-tron GT hits 240 miles. Although the GT is equipped with less speed than most EV sports cars, it also offers a less flashy price, starting at $107,995. In a similar vein, the Taycan was Porsche’s first luxury sports car to go all-electric. While the Taycan may perform well — featuring a 2.4-second 0-60 MPH acceleration rate — its biggest downfall was the 225 miles of range. With longevity giants like the Lucid Air — offering a groundbreaking 516 miles of range while still revving up to 60 MPH in three seconds — on the market, an all-electric Acura has to hit a sweet spot in top speed, acceleration, and range. A 300-mile range at the minimum would set an EV NSX up for success.

Acura’s first all-electric SUV is available starting in 2024. The ZDX is expected to run a total of 325 miles and fall within the $60,000 to $70,000 price range. The EV SUV debuted at Monterey Car Week along with the possible NSX concept design. The fleet of electric cars reflects not only Acura’s plans for the future, but the auto industry as a whole. More and more manufacturers have set lofty goals for going all green, or totally carbon-neutral by a range of dates: 2028 for some, 2030 for most, and 2035 for others. Acura fits right into Honda’s plans to sell only electric vehicles by a later date: 2040.

While that date may seem far off, it also will offer the automotive brand to experiment with the latest in electric vehicle technology and create a balance of pace, performance, price, and perseverance. Hopefully, the newest all-electric sports car to come off the factory line strikes that balance. With its sparkly display of unveiling the car concept at Car Week, Acura ushered in a new future for the brand — one that is sleek, speedy, and sustainable. As more details trickle out of Acura, gear heads wait in anticipation for what is likely a bright and eco future.

This Custom Electric Car Build with a Suzuki Hayabusa Engine Swap is Making Progress

In early August 2023, we were introduced to a unique project being undertaken by Vasily, a builder from Tennessee. Vasily, who shares his progress on the YouTube channel called Vasily Builds, has embarked on swapping a Suzuki Hayabusa engine into a small electric car known as the Comuta Car.

The first installment of Vasily’s project detailed his acquisition of the Comuta Car and the journey to bring it home. He also showcased the wrecked Hayabusa engine that he intended to use for the swap.

Now, as we approach the end of September, let’s take a look at how the project is progressing. Vasily has made significant advancements in his build. However, as with any DIY project, there are challenges along the way. While Vasily possesses welding and problem-solving skills, fitting everything together perfectly becomes more complex when creating something that has never been done before. It’s a unique opportunity to pioneer your own path, but it also requires meticulous planning and problem-solving.

Several episodes documenting Vasily’s progress have been posted on his YouTube channel, allowing viewers to follow along with the entire journey. In a recent episode, he encountered a common predicament faced by many DIYers: undoing previous work because it did not meet his satisfaction. Vasily desired improvements and modifications to his front suspension, which initially incorporated components from a Mazda Miata. However, issues with clearance, camber adjustment, and wheel width necessitated a reevaluation and subsequent changes.

Similar adjustments were required at the back of the car as well. Vasily successfully mounted the Hayabusa engine behind the firewall and constructed a steel subframe. He also added a roll cage for both safety and increased rigidity. In a previous episode, he installed a reverse gear box, but he has since decided to remove it.

This serves as a valuable reminder that a work in progress is just that—a work in progress. When building something from scratch, it’s common to encounter unexpected challenges that prompt changes in plans. Adapting to these situations and finding alternate solutions is key to moving forward. Despite the remaining work ahead, Vasily’s project is gradually coming together. Through trial and error, he is discovering what works and what needs adjustment.

In the upcoming episode, Vasily aims to tackle the rear suspension, which presents additional complexities due to the car’s rear-wheel-drive configuration. It will be intriguing to see how the build progresses.

Was the Leyland Eight the first ‘supercar’?

In my previous column on 16 August, I expressed my frustration with the practice of car manufacturers charging ongoing fees for certain features in their vehicles. It bothers me that they want to maintain some level of ownership or control over a product long after it has been purchased.

I’ve received a lot of feedback on this issue. Only a few people have defended the practice, but even with well-reasoned arguments or analogies, I remain unconvinced. The majority of people agree that it is an unpleasant practice.

In light of this, BMW has announced that it will stop charging fees for hardware-based features in its future cars (although software-based features will still be subject to fees).

Pieter Nota, BMW’s sales and marketing boss, explained at the Munich Motor Show: “We initially thought that offering the option to activate certain features later would be an added service for customers. However, the level of acceptance among users was not high.

Many people felt that they were being charged twice, which was not actually the case, but perception is reality, as I always say. That’s why we decided to discontinue this practice.”

Let me provide an analogy. Imagine a property developer who constructs 1000 houses with identical designs, all of which have an en suite bathroom. This helps keep costs down instead of building some houses with and some without en suite bathrooms.

You purchase one of these houses, move in, and are thrilled with it. It’s a fantastic place, and it’s all yours! But what’s behind this door? Oh, that, the developers say, is an extra bathroom. However, you can only access it if you pay them £30 per month indefinitely.

Hyundai Creta Still The Sales Favourite Ahead Of Maruti Grand Vitara In August 2023

The segment, on the whole, witnessed total sales of close to 60,000 units

Compact SUVs August 2023 sales

In August 2023, there were three compact SUVs that registered total sales of over 10,000 units. As seen frequently, the Hyundai Creta was once again the leader of the pack, with close to 14,000 units sold. The segment, too, witnessed an overall month-on-month (MoM) growth of more than 12 percent.

Compact SUVs and crossovers

August 2023

July 2023

MoM Growth

Market share current(%)

Market share (% last year)

YoY mkt share (%)

Average sales (6 months)

Hyundai Creta

13832

14062

-1.63

23.66

41.69

-18.03

13599

Maruti Grand Vitara

11818

9079

30.16

20.21

0

20.21

9235

Kia Seltos

10698

9740

9.83

18.3

28.68

-10.38

6527

Mahindra Scorpio

9898

10522

-5.93

16.93

23.39

-6.46

8974

Toyota Hyryder

4121

3387

21.67

7.04

0

7.04

3116

Honda Elevate

2822

0

0

4.82

0

0

0

Skoda Kushaq

2409

2394

0.62

4.12

6.21

-2.09

2068

Volkswagen Taigun

1943

1908

1.83

3.32

3.37

-0.05

1726

MG Astor

914

954

-4.19

1.56

4.38

-2.82

885

Total

58455

52046

12.31

99.96

Takeaways

Hyundai Creta

  • The Hyundai Creta remains the most popular choice in this segment, with more than 13,800 units sold. However, its year-on-year (YoY) market share went down by the biggest margin, of over 18 percent thanks to new competitors since.

  • With close to 12,000 units shipped, the Maruti Grand Vitara leapfrogged from the fourth spot in July to second place in August, witnessing the highest MoM growth of over 30 percent.

Kia Seltos

  • Over 10,500 units of the new Kia Seltos were retailed in August, making it the final model on this list whose sales crossed the 10,000-unit mark. The Kia SUV’s market share stood at over 18 percent, 10 percent less than the year before.

  • Following the Kia Seltos closely was the Mahindra Scorpio N and Scorpio Classic duo, still listed as one in the sales charts, with nearly 9,900 units sold. Their MoM figures diminished by around 6 percent while both the models cumulatively had a market share close to 17 percent.

Toyota Hyryder

  • The Toyota Hyryder, the Maruti Grand Vitara’s cousin, had a decent outing in August sales as the carmaker shipped 4,000-odd units of the SUV. Its MoM figures saw an uptick of almost 22 percent.

  • Honda dispatched slightly more than 2,800 units of the Elevate SUV in August. While its launch only took place in September (with deliveries starting only after), expect those numbers to rise in the coming months.

  • The Skoda KushaqVolkswagen Taigun duo failed to go past the 2,500-unit mark individually. Both the models had a market share of under 5 percent each.

Also Read: Skoda Introduces More Affordable Mid-spec Variants of Kushaq And Slavia

  • With less than 1,000 units sold, the MG Astor took the last spot on the sales chart in August. Its MoM demand dipped by more than 4 percent.

Read More on : Hyundai Creta Automatic