Tag Archives: iconic

The Most Expensive Ferraris Of All Time

Ferrari, the iconic Italian automotive manufacturer, has a long history of creating some of the most luxurious, fast, and expensive supercars and hypercars. Founded in 1939 by Enzo Ferrari, the brand is known for its commitment to excellence, precision, and prestige. Ferrari’s vehicles are renowned for their masterful design, blending luxury with cutting-edge technology. From the classic allure of the 250 GTO to the raw power of the LaFerrari, and the futuristic sophistication of newer models, Ferrari’s lineup of supercars and hypercars exudes an unmatched allure. The astronomical prices of these vehicles reflect the brand’s dedication to superior craftsmanship, advanced aerodynamics, formidable speed, and an unparalleled driving experience.

Among the most expensive offerings is the Ferrari LaFerrari, which was priced at about $1.4 million at its release in 2013. This hybrid hypercar features a V12 engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined 949 horsepower. Even more exclusive is the LaFerrari Aperta, an open-top version of the hypercar, with an original price tag reportedly exceeding $2 million. Another notable model is the Ferrari Monza SP1 and SP2, part of the ‘Icona’ series, which were priced at around $1.75 million when they debuted in 2018.

Ferraris have also achieved record-breaking prices at auctions, highlighting the brand’s rich history and the high demand among collectors. The most notable example is the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO, which set the record for the highest price ever paid for a car at auction. In 2018, it was sold for a staggering $48.4 million. Another 250 GTO, produced in 1963, reportedly changed hands privately for an unprecedented $70 million. Other notable sales include a 1957 Ferrari 335 Sport Scaglietti, which fetched $35.7 million in 2016, and a 1956 Ferrari 290 MM, which was sold for $28 million at an auction in 2015. These remarkable auction prices highlight the enduring appeal of Ferrari’s vintage models and the significant value collectors place on the brand’s rich racing heritage and exceptional craftsmanship.

If you’re interested in purchasing a Ferrari, you can find a wide selection of models through Dupont Registry.

Aston Martin DB5 Vantage Amalgam Model Costs $21,995, Limited To 199 Units

The Amalgam Collection has unveiled a 1:8 scale model of the renowned Aston Martin DB5 Vantage. This limited-edition model is meticulously detailed, thanks to Amalgam’s close partnership with Aston Martin, which provides them with essential information about the car.

The DB5 Vantage by Amalgam is available in two versions: Bespoke and Limited Edition. Both options come with a high cost, with the limited-edition model priced at $21,995. The bespoke version, tailored to the owner’s specific requirements, is even more expensive at $28,595.

Suzuki Introduces a Special 25th Anniversary Edition of the Hayabusa Motorcycle

In 1999, Suzuki launched one of the most iconic motorcycles in pop culture. Known as the Suzuki Hayabusa, it was designed to be the fastest production motorcycle in the world. The Hayabusa quickly achieved this goal and became a symbol of high-performance motorcycle culture. It gained popularity among young motorcyclists and even found its place on bedroom walls.

Although it no longer holds the title of the fastest motorcycle in the world, the Suzuki Hayabusa remains a formidable powerhouse in terms of sheer speed. It boasts a 1,340cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, inline-four engine that produces an impressive 187 horsepower. The Hayabusa is also equipped with advanced electronic rider aids, including a six-axis inertial measurement unit (IMU) that enables features like cornering ABS and traction control.

Suzuki Unveils Limited 25th Anniversary Edition Hayabusa
The limited 25th Anniversary Edition Hayabusa. Source: RideApart

Over the past 25 years, Suzuki has produced over 200,000 units of the Hayabusa, solidifying its position as a symbol of technological excellence. To celebrate the motorcycle’s anniversary, Suzuki has released a special limited-edition version of the Hayabusa.

One notable feature of the 25th Anniversary Hayabusa is its exclusive color scheme. It combines orange and black, paying homage to previous generations of this superbike. The graphics on the motorcycle also showcase the Hayabusa branding, with engravings on the muffler and chain. Furthermore, the fuel tank prominently displays a 25th Anniversary emblem and a 3D Suzuki emblem. To enhance its sporty appearance, the limited-edition Hayabusa comes with a seat cowl instead of a pillion seat.

As of now, Suzuki has yet to announce the pricing and availability details for the 25th Anniversary Hayabusa. For more information about this motorcycle, as well as the rest of Suzuki’s lineup for 2023 and 2024, it is recommended to contact your local Suzuki dealership or visit Suzuki Global’s official website.

Audemars Piguet Presents Four New Royal Oak Chronograph Models

Audemars Piguet is celebrating the 30th anniversary of the renowned Royal Oak Offshore by launching four exquisite Selfwinding Chronograph models in a 37mm size. These timepieces, adorned with diamond and colored gemstone bezels, offer a captivating combination of sportiness and luxury. Designed in 18-carat pink gold, yellow gold, and stainless steel, they feature the same design evolution as the 43mm models introduced in 2021. The latest models showcase various visually appealing upgrades, such as the lady Tapisserie motif and an enhanced AP monogram. With the omission of the snailed zone, the timepieces exude a more refined look. The larger hour markers give them a sportier appearance, adding to their distinctive appeal.

These new Royal Oak models are more than just accessories; they are statement pieces equipped with Audemars Piguet’s interchangeable strap system and powered by the self-winding chronograph Calibre 2385. The pink gold and stainless steel versions feature bezels set with brilliant-cut diamonds, with the pink gold variant complemented by a light blue dial and the stainless steel variant adorned with a warm salmon dial. Additionally, two luxurious models in 18-carat pink or yellow gold showcase a range of baguette-cut colored gemstones. The yellow gold timepiece boasts a mesmerizing gradation of yellow, green, and blue hues, achieved through the exquisite use of tsavorites and sapphires. The pink gold model flaunts a rainbow-colored bezel that beautifully complements the black dial. The newest additions to the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph Collection are currently available through authorized dealers.

The 14 Different Body Styles Of The Ford Mustang

The current generation of the iconic Ford Mustang is coming to an end soon to make way for the 2024 models in a couple of months. While the next-gen pony car doesn’t seem much different than the current-gen, it’s unlikely there will not be as many options available to consumers. With the 2023 model year, there are an astounding 14 different variants to fill every niche from economically cool to awe-inspiring performance.

After decades of flirting with unusual body styles for the Mustang, Ford righted the ship in 2005 by getting back to the classic fastbacks of the originals. When they went from the fifth to the sixth generation in 2015, they didn’t mess with the formula and simply offered an updated, streamlined body style. The 2024 model year will mark the beginning of the seventh generation Mustang, but Ford isn’t going crazy with a radical new design, keeping it pretty close to what has been some very successful generations.

Unlike Chevrolet and Dodge who are abandoning the ICE muscle car business, Ford will still put gas-powered engines in Mustangs. They can do this in the age of EVs because they already have the all-electric Mustang Mach-E. While purists will claim the Mach-E isn’t a real Mustang, it’s badged as such, so it counts. With the Mach-E models, Ford has 14 different models to choose from and that’s a big win for consumers and Mustang fans.

RELATED: Honoring 7 Generations Of The Ford Mustang

14 Mustang EcoBoost

MSRP: $29,145

Red 2023 Ford Mustang EcoBoost
Ford
3/4 front view of red 2023 Ford Mustang EcoBoost

Usually, a base model means a stripped-down version with no power or features, but the Mustang EcoBoost is packed with goodies. The most affordable pony car in the line-up has the reality-defying EcoBoost engine, which makes it seem like a mid-to-upper trim level. It comes standard with features that don’t exactly scream that it’s the entry-level Mustang.

Specs

Engine

Turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder

Engine Output

310 horsepower, 350 pound-feet of torque

Transmission

Six-speed manual

0-60

4.9 seconds

MRSP

$29,145

With a leather wrapped steering wheel and parking brake handle, the interior has a touch of luxury. The Ford Sync infotainment system is paired with a six-speaker sound system and a rearview camera. The exterior looks just as great as any other Mustang in the stable, so this is an incredible value.

13 Mustang EcoBoost Premium

MSRP: $34,170

People with 2023 Mustang EcoBoost Premium
Ford
Peopel chilling with the 2023 Mustang EcoBoost Premium

The next step up is the Mustang EcoBoost Premium, which has the same horsepower as the EcoBoost but offers some serious luxury upgrades. With leather seats, an upgraded Sync 3 infotainment system, and chrome accents throughout, this is a much slicker ride.

Specs

Engine

Turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder

Engine Output

310 horsepower, 350 pound-feet of torque

Transmission

Six-speed manual

0-60

4.9 seconds

MRSP

$34,170

The premium trim comes with a Blade decklid spoiler and 18-inch aluminum wheels that give it some extra pop in the appearance department. The optional stripe package seems like a no-brainer because if you’re going to come up from the base, why not spend a few more bucks to make it really cool-looking?

RELATED: 2023 Ford Mustang: Performance, Price, And Photos

12 Mustang EcoBoost High-Performance Pack

MSRP: $35,015

Blue Mustang EcoBoost High Performance Pack
Ford
Front view of blue 2023 Mustang EcoBoost High Performance Pack

The four-cylinder turbocharged EcoBoost engine is already impressive, but for around $6,000 more than the base model, it can be truly amazing. The Mustang EcoBoost High Performance Pack is the top trim for the 2023 EBs that squeezes some extra horsepower out and drops a few decimals from the 0-60 time.

Specs

Engine

Turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder

Engine Output

330 horsepower, 350 pound-feet of torque

Transmission

Six-speed manual

0-60

4.5 seconds

MRSP

$35,015

With all the standard equipment of the Premium, the High-Performance Pack is exactly what its name suggests: a speed upgrade. This package is available for both the coupe and convertible models. An additional EcoBoost Handling Pack, with bigger wheels, brakes, and improved suspension, is available only for the coupe.

11 Mustang GT

MSRP: $39,720

Red 2023 Ford Mustang GT
Ford
Top view of red 2023 Ford Mustang GT

As great as the EcoBoost is, Mustangs were made to have V-8s under the hood and that’s where the 2023 GT comes in. Equipped with a proper muscle car engine, the Mustang GT is the lowest trim with an eight-cylinder and is only available in the fastback couple body style.

Specs

Engine

5.0-liter V-8

Engine Output

450 horsepower, 420 pound-feet of torque

Transmission

Six-speed manual

0-60

4.4 seconds

MRSP

$39,720

Car and Driver recommends the GT as the top of the ’23’s because, “The Mustang is best enjoyed with its sonorous, 450-horsepower 5.0-liter V-8” and it strikes the perfect balance between performance and affordability. Then again, there are tons tempting of upgrade packages that could push it into the upper trim levels.

10 Mustang GT Premium

MSRP: $44,740

Mustang GT Premium
Ford
3/4 front view Ford Mustang GT Premium

Much like how the EcoBoost Premium is an upgrade from the EcoBoost, the GT Premium is a more luxurious version of the GT. Packed with all the same interior and exterior upgrades, the GT Premium is for people who want a little more style with their speed.

Specs

Engine

5.0-liter V-8

Engine Output

450 horsepower, 420 pound-feet of torque

Transmission

Six-speed manual

0-60

4.4 seconds

MRSP

$44,740

The real importance of the Premium GT is that it’s the first trim available as a convertible that has a V-8. The power and speed of the Premium GT with a ragtop guarantee a bad hair day while at the same time a great driving day.

9 Mustang GT Performance Pack

MSRP: $46,420

Mustang GT Performance Pack convertible
Ford
3/4 front view of 2023 Ford Mustang GT Performance Pack convertible

At this point, the Ford pattern is clear: the base model offers standard thrills, the Premium adds luxury, and the Performance Pack loads up on the performance end. The Mustang GT Performance Pack is the top GT trim but doesn’t actually add anything to the 450-horsepower engine.

Specs

Engine

5.0-liter V-8

Engine Output

450 horsepower, 420 pound-feet of torque

Transmission

Six-speed manual

0-60

4.4 seconds

MRSP

$46,420

The GT Performance Pack is more about beefier Brembo brakes, a stiffer suspension, bigger wheels, and better tires. While this doesn’t technically make the Mustang more powerful on a dyno tester, in the real world, it helps keep the car stuck to the road, which is a speed-boost for less skilled drivers.

8 Mustang Mach 1

MSRP: $57,945

2023 Ford Mustang Mach 1 on the track
Ford
2023 Ford Mustang Mach 1 on the track

The Mach 1 was Ford’s performance package option until they killed it in 1978. It made a brief return in the early 2000s and then reemerged in 2021, hopefully for good. The 2023 Mach 1 is basically the GT Performance Pack minus the Premium luxury, plus more horsepower.

Specs

Engine

5.0-liter V-8

Engine Output

470 horsepower, 420 pound-feet of torque

Transmission

Six-speed manual

0-60

4.1 seconds

MRSP

$57,945

All that Mustang math adds up to a no-frills street monster that actually has some frills because the base models are decently equipped. Ford dropped a modified version of their signature 5.0-liter V-8 in the Mach 1 that puts out an extra 20 horsepower and makes for one seriously fast production model.

RELATED: Watch A Ford Mustang Mach 1 Try To Cha-Cha-Cha With A Porsche Cayman GT4 And A 718​​​​​​​

7 Mustang Mach 1 Premium

MSRP: $59,760

Mustang Mach 1 Premium at the track
Ford
2023 Ford Mustang Mach 1 Premium at the track

Can anyone guess the difference between a Mach 1 and a Mach 1 Premium? Everyone who said it’s a more luxurious version gets a gold star, or actually a Blue Oval would be more appropriate here. In reality, the Mach 1 Premium is a bigger upgrade than the EcoBoost Premium or GT Premium.

Specs

Engine

5.0-liter V-8

Engine Output

470 horsepower, 420 pound-feet of torque

Transmission

Six-speed manual

0-60

4.1 seconds

MRSP

$59,760

In addition to everything that comes with a normal Premium upgrade, the Mach 1 Premium gets cooler interior accents, a way better sound system, plus heated seats. At this point in the ascending ladder of 2023 Mustang trims, budget is becoming less of an issue so splurging on all the available extras is the way to go.

6 Mustang Shelby GT500

MSRP: $80,795

A parked Ford Mustang Shelby GT500
Ford
Front and side view of a 2022 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500

The Shelby GT500 is not just the most powerful Mustang Ford has ever built, it’s the fastest production vehicle the automaker has ever produced. It’s also the most expensive because this kind of ferocity isn’t cheap, nor should it be. Until it was knocked off its perch by the 2023 Dodge Demon 170, the GT500’s 10.6 quarter-mile was the fastest for an American Muscle car.

Specs

Engine

Supercharged 5.2-liter V-8

Engine Output

760 horsepower, 625 pound-feet of torque

Transmission

Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic

0-60

3.3 seconds

MRSP

$80,795

In addition to a bigger engine and all the features of the Premium and Performance packs, the GT500 comes with a rear wing spoiler and custom splitters to cut through the wind and stay glued to the track. Upon its initial release, MotorTrend called it a “Game changer” and, “the best all-around sports car available.”

5 Mustang Mach-E Select

MSRP: $44,795

Guy next to Mustang Mach-E Select
Ford
Guy next to 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E Select

A Mustang Mach-E doesn’t look like a Mustang or a Mach-anything, but Ford branded its all-electric crossover with these names, so like it or not, it is officially part of the fabled pony car’s history. Road & Track reported that Ford slapped the Mustang nameplate on this EV so it would stand out in the crowded electric vehicle market.

Specs

Power

70kWh single motor

Motor Output

266 horsepower, 317 pound-feet of torque

Range

247 miles

0-60

6.3 seconds

MRSP

$44,795

The Mustang Mach-E Select is the entry-level version of this new kind of Mustang. With EVs it’s all about power, battery size, and range, so since this is the base model, it’s obviously the slowest, shortest driving of the batch, but it’s still more than enough for most daily driving duties.

4 Mustang Mach-E Premium

MSRP: $48,795

White Mustang Mach-E Premium
Ford
Rear view of white 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E Premium

Car & Driver says, “We think the Premium model is the Mach-E to get.” The reason is simple, the Mustang Mach-E Premium strikes the perfect balance between power, range, luxury, and most importantly: price. Ford always has that one sweet ride buried in their vast array of trim levels and this is it for the pony EV.

Specs

Power

72kWh single motor

Motor Output

266 horsepower, 317 pound-feet of torque

Range

250 miles

0-60

6.3 seconds

MRSP

$48,795

While quicker and longer lasting than the Select, it also has a better fast-charging system, which is something anyone buying an EV should consider as it can be soul-crushing, waiting to “fill up” an all-electric if you’re in a hurry. Additionally, the Premium has 19-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, a power lift gate, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system.

3 Mustang Mach-E California Route 1

MSRP: $58,795

White Mustang Mach-E California Route 1
Ford
3/4 front view of white 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E California Route 1

Stepping up from the Premium is the Mach-E California Route 1, which has a bigger battery and more range. Available in either a single-motor front-wheel drive or dual-motor all-wheel drive configurations, it can actually go a little further than the Premium, but its reported 312 miles is nowhere near enough to tackle the 655 miles of California’s historic Route 1.

Specs

Power

91kWh dual motor

Motor Output

346 horsepower, 428 pound-feet of torque

Range

312 miles

0-60

4.8 seconds

MRSP

$58,795

The interior is sufficiently equipped with tech goodies like a 15.5 inch touchscreen infotainment system, a wireless charging pad, and USB ports. It’s also quite comfy with a heated steering wheel, memory driver’s seat, and carpeted floor mats. While it’s the top trim of the non-GT models, it doesn’t offer much more than the Premium.

2 Mustang Mach-E GT

MSRP: $61,795

Wikimedia Commons“”>

Ford Mustang Mach-E GT
Alexander Migl via Wikimedia Commons
A brand new Ford Mustang Mach-E GT at an event

While the standard Mach-Es are more than capable, the GTs get into the Tesla Model X Plaid levels of performance. The Mustang Mach-E GT comes standard with dual motor all-wheel drive and an extended-range battery pack, which adds up to a straight-line EV terror, capable of smoking all gas-powered Mustangs except the GT500.

Specs

Power

91kWh dual motor

Motor Output

480 horsepower, 600 pound-feet of torque

Range

270 miles

0-60

3.8 seconds

MRSP

$61,795

Since this EV looks suspiciously similar to the Ford Escape plug-in hybrid, the Mustang Mach-E GT may be the ultimate sleeper ride, because no one will be able to guess how freakishly fast this thing is until they get their doors blown off. Yes, it is a little pricey, but no more expensive than other EVs with similar capabilities.

RELATED: 2023 Mustang Mach-E: Performance, Price, And Photos​​​​​​​

1 Mustang Mach-E GT Performance Edition

MSRP: $66,795

Blue Mustang Mach-E GT Performance Edition
Ford
Front view of blue 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT Performance Edition

​​​​​​​

Just when you think you’ve hit the top of the trims, Ford always has another loaded up with a bit more luxury and performance. The Mustang Mach-E GT Performance Edition is the head of the class in both power and price. This package ups the torque from the standard GT, which in the case of EVs is instant and awesome.

Specs

Power

91kWh dual motor

Motor Output

480 horsepower, 634 pound-feet of torque

Range

270 miles

0-60

3.5 seconds

MRSP

$66,795

The Performance Edition adds the MagnaRide magnetic damping system for an adjustable ride stiffness experience. It also has 20-inch wheels and racing seats for looking cool and staying in place, respectively. As is the case with any Ford upper trim levels, when you reach a certain point, why not just get it all? The Mustang Mach-E GT Performance Edition is the EV equivalent of the ICE Mustang Shelby GT500: it’s the best of the best.

First drive: 2023 Skoda Kodiaq prototype review

Even popular movie trilogies, like The Godfather and The Dark Knight, often lose steam by the third installment.

However, Skoda SUVs defy this trend. The Czech automaker released a successful three-part series, starting with the impressive Skoda Kodiaq, followed by the highly popular Skoda Karoq and Kamiq. Now, Skoda is returning to where it all began with a new Kodiaq set to arrive in the first quarter of 2024.

The second-generation large SUV will continue to share components with other Volkswagen Group models, including the new VW Tiguan, which we have already tested in prototype form. Pricing, trim levels, and equipment details will be confirmed later this year. The lineup will include a standard Kodiaq and a sportier SportLine version, with most models featuring seven seats. Additionally, a hotter Skoda Kodiaq vRS version is expected to join the range about a year later.

At launch, the new Kodiaq will offer two petrol and two diesel engine options. As 97% of Kodiaq buyers opted for the smooth-shifting DSG gearbox, all engines will come with it as standard.

The entry-level petrol variant is a 148bhp 1.5-liter engine featuring the latest Evo2 mild-hybrid technology. It is quieter and has smoother transitions to its fuel-saving two-cylinder mode. While not particularly spirited, its performance is adequate for everyday errands. Alternatively, there is a more powerful 201bhp 2.0-liter TSI petrol option available.

The entry-level diesel variant is a 148bhp 2.0-liter engine with strong low-end power, making it ideal for carrying a fully loaded Kodiaq. It may be a bit overkill for primarily city driving, but it excels on cross-country journeys.

The top-tier diesel variant is a 190bhp engine. Although it feels less lively and revs slower, it produces less diesel noise in the cabin. Furthermore, it is the only Kodiaq variant that comes with seven seats and four-wheel drive.

Mercedes-AMG SL 55 Makes A Comeback In India


The iconic SL nameplate is back for some top-down motoring in style, that too in a performance-spec AMG avatar

The Mercedes-AMG SL 55 Roadster has been launched in India at a price of Rs 2.35 crore (ex-showroom, pan India). The SL nameplate was last available in India in 2012, and now the sixth-generation model is making a comeback. The company has also started taking orders for the two-door SL cabriolet in India after a gap of almost 11 years.

Mercedes’ Only Two-Door Cabriolet

The AMG SL 55 Roadster is only the second convertible from Affalterbach to be available in India, following the E-Class cabriolet. The latest SL 55 features smooth and curvaceous lines, in line with Mercedes’ current design language. It has a distinctive slatted AMG-exclusive grille with sharp LED taillights, giving it a focused and performance-oriented appearance.

The roadster is equipped with 21-inch AMG-spec alloy wheels and high-performance tires. It comes with a soft-top that can be electronically stored away in just 15 seconds at speeds of up to 60kmph. The front of the car has an elongated profile, while the rear is stubby, contributing to its aggressive look with sleek tail lamp design and quad exhausts.

A Luxurious Cabin

Similar to other Mercedes-AMG models, the SL 55 combines luxury with a sporty touch. It features a chunky three-spoke AMG steering wheel with heating function, sporty aluminum pedals, turbine-inspired AC vents, carbon fiber inserts on the center console, and optional Nappa leather seat upholstery. The SL sports a 2+2 seating configuration, which is typical of luxury sports coupes.

Packed with Features

The SL 55 Roadster is equipped with a range of features including a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display, powered front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, dual-zone climate control, and 64-color ambient lighting. The centerpiece is a portrait-styled 11.9-inch touchscreen MBUX-powered infotainment system with a 1220W 17-speaker Burmester sound system and wireless charging. Safety features include blind spot assist, surround view system, parking assist, eight airbags, ESP, and optional radar-based ADAS. The car also offers a usable boot with 240 liters of storage, enough for a couple of travel bags or even a golf bag.

A Handcrafted V8 Under The Hood!

The Mercedes-AMG SL 55 is powered by the brand’s signature hand-built 4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine. With an output of 476PS and 700Nm of torque, the engine propels the car from 0 to 100kmph in just 3.9 seconds. The transmission duties are handled by a 9-speed MCT automatic unit.

The car comes with Mercedes’ 4MATIC+ (AWD) drivetrain with rear-wheel steering and rear limited-slip differential as standard, ensuring excellent grip and stability during high-speed cornering. It also features an active suspension system with dynamic abilities, offering a choice of driving experiences from comfort to dynamic. Additionally, it can raise the car’s clearance by 30mm to tackle uneven terrains.

Rivalry

With its price, the AMG SL 55 directly competes with the lower variants of the Porsche 911 Cabriolet, which are similarly priced. Although open-top motoring is still not widely practiced in India, cars like the SL are likely to encourage more demand for cabriolets in the country.

Top 10 Indian Celebrity Brand Ambassadors For Indian Cars!


These are some of the most iconic celebrity endorsements for cars in India, including some partnerships that are still continuing

Brands often use celebrity endorsements to attract potential customers and make their products more appealing, and carmakers are no exception. In addition to regular product updates and improvements, car brands in India have partnered with various popular celebrities over the past two decades. Here is a list of the top 10 Indian celebrities who have acted as brand ambassadors in the country’s automotive industry:

Sachin Tendulkar – BMW India and Fiat Palio

Sachin Tendulkar With BMW 328i

Sachin Tendulkar, an iconic figure in Indian cricket, endorses many products and serves as a brand ambassador for numerous companies. One of these companies is BMW India, which appointed Sachin Tendulkar as its brand ambassador in 2012.

Sachin Tendulkar With Fiat Palio

But BMW wasn’t the first car brand to have Sachin endorse their products. In 2001, Fiat made Sachin Tendulkar the brand ambassador for its soon-to-be-launched model, the Fiat Palio. Fiat even created a special limited edition of the Palio dedicated to Sachin called the S10, which combined his initials and jersey number. Sachin Tendulkar himself launched the Palio S10.

Shah Rukh Khan – Hyundai Santro and Hyundai i10

Shah Rukh Khan Ad For Hyundai Santro

Shah Rukh Khan, the King of Bollywood, is known for endorsing various products. In the automotive world, he was signed as the brand ambassador for Hyundai Santro when it was launched in 1998. SRK later went on to endorse the Hyundai i10 and has since become an integral part of Hyundai’s brand image. Recently, the carmaker appointed cricketer Hardik Pandya as the brand ambassador for their upcoming micro-SUV, the Hyundai Exter.

Amitabh and Abhishek Bachchan – Maruti Versa

Amitabh Bachchan With Maruti Versa

Amitabh Bachchan and his son Abhishek were signed as the brand ambassadors for Maruti Versa, a people mover launched in 2001. Maruti introduced the father-son duo as the faces of its MPV, and both Bachchans launched the Versa together. The ad campaign featured both Bachchans in the MPV, with Abhishek driving and Amitabh sitting in the second-row seat.

Also Read: Official: Maruti Invicto Is The Name Of The New MPV Based On The Toyota Innova Hycross

Abhishek Bachchan also endorsed the Ford Fiesta in 2006 but was not a brand ambassador.

Aamir Khan – Toyota Innova

Aamir Khan With Toyota Innova

Aamir Khan endorsed one of Toyota’s most popular models in India, the Toyota Innova. He served as the brand ambassador for the MPV when it was first launched in 2005. The Innova is still available in the country, with options like the diesel-only Innova Crysta and the Innova Hycross, which offers a strong hybrid powertrain.

Virat Kohli – Audi India

Virat Kohli Audi Brand Ambassador

Virat Kohli, former captain of the Indian cricket team and a car enthusiast, became the brand ambassador for Audi India in 2015. He owns several models from the German carmaker, including the R8, which he purchased in 2012. Virat Kohli’s jersey number, 18, is well-known among cricket fans and adds to his association with Audi.

Ranbir Kapoor – Renault India

Ranbir Kapoor With Renault Kwid

In 2015, Renault signed actor Ranbir Kapoor as the brand ambassador for its range of cars. Before that, Ranbir had been the brand ambassador for Nissan Micra. Ranbir later endorsed Renault models like the Duster and Kwid. In a Renault Kwid ad campaign, Ranbir disguised himself as a Renault salesman and showcased the car to a couple at a Renault dealership.

Ranveer Singh – Maruti Nexa

Ranveer Singh With Maruti Ciaz

Ranveer Singh was roped in as the brand ambassador for Maruti’s Nexa range of cars in 2014. He first endorsed the Maruti Ciaz, followed by the Maruti XL6 and the Maruti Baleno. In the campaign for Maruti’s premium models, Ranveer Singh was often seen wearing a suit to highlight the cars’ premium nature, making him a suitable choice for the brand ambassador of Maruti’s Nexa lineup.

R Madhavan – Maruti Wagon R

Before Ranveer Singh became the brand ambassador for Maruti’s Nexa lineup, R Madhavan endorsed one of Maruti’s popular models, the Maruti Wagon R. In 2009, Maruti signed R Madhavan, known for his role in the movie 3 Idiots, as the brand ambassador for the third-generation Wagon R. One of the TV ads showed Madhavan traveling with his friends and singing about the Wagon R’s features and ride quality.

John Abraham – Nissan India

John Abraham With Nissan GT-R

John Abraham, an avid bike and car enthusiast, became the brand ambassador for Nissan India in 2016. He endorsed the carmaker’s upcoming models in the country and was present at the 2016 Auto Expo, where he promoted the Nissan X-Trail and the GT-R. John Abraham also owns a GT-R himself.

Sunil Shetty – Ford Endeavour

Sunil Shetty With Ford Endeavour

In 2009, Ford India signed actor Sunil Shetty as the brand ambassador for the Ford Endeavour, their premium SUV model. The 2009 Ford Endeavour came with diesel engine options and both 4X2 and 4X4 drivetrains. However, Ford eventually decided to withdraw from the Indian market in 2020 due to significant losses.

Also Read: Remembering Ford Endeavour: One Of The Best SUVs That We Had

Let us know in the comments which celebrity endorsement surprised you the most, or if you have any favorite ambassadors that aren’t on this list.

Read More on: Wagon R on road price

Brickmania Launches Officially Licensed Blues Brothers Kit For $210

Brickmania has released a new model of the iconic Bluesmobile from the movie “Blues Brothers.” This kit is officially licensed and includes a small replica of the black-and-white 1974 Dodge Monaco along with two minifigures of Jake and Elwood Blues.

The kit, which consists of 332 Lego bricks and Brickmania elements, is now available for pre-order. While it is not a limited edition, it is uncertain when it will be restocked after the initial batch sells out. The kit retails for $210, and it comes with full-color printed instructions and custom-printed elements for the vehicle. The Dodge Monaco features functional doors and the roof-mounted loudspeaker, just like in the movie, giving it an authentic look.

 

Brickmania specializes in creating custom building kits using Lego bricks and unique elements. The company offers a wide range of products, with many of them being military-themed vehicles. Their catalog includes warships, airplanes, tanks, trucks, artillery batteries from various wars, and even replicas of the Apollo 11 Command Module, the Vostok 6 Soviet spacecraft, and a Viking raiding ship that retails for $990.

The release of the Bluesmobile kit in brick form coincides with the 40th anniversary of the “Blues Brothers” movie in 2020. The film, which was released in 1980, follows the adventures of the characters Jake and Elwood Blues portrayed by Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi, respectively. In the movie, the brothers embark on a mission to raise money for an orphanage that is facing tax issues.

During their journey, the Blues Brothers find themselves in trouble, leading to a 106-mile car chase into downtown Chicago. This epic chase scene involves over 100 police cars, tanks, and helicopters. Now, with the Bluesmobile Lego kit, fans can recreate this action-packed scene on a smaller scale at home.

For years, Lego enthusiasts have been using Lego bricks to build all kinds of vehicles. While not every vehicle make and model is available in official Lego kits, this hasn’t stopped people from creating their own designs. Lego offers a variety of vehicle sets, and Lego Technic adds even more intricacy and detail to the building process, resulting in lifelike final products.

5 Of The Best Horror Movies On Hulu Right Now

Stephen King, the iconic horror writer, has astounded us with his imaginative and spine-chilling stories. From man-eating clowns to murderous machines, he has mastered the art of terrifying his readers. Surprisingly, one of his most famous works, “Misery,” is also one of his most grounded.

Released in 1990, “Misery” revolves around a renowned author who becomes disenchanted with his current book series and plans to kill off his main character in his upcoming manuscript. However, after a car accident, he finds himself under the care of a devoted fan, who happens to be a young woman. When she discovers his manuscript, things take a dark and twisted turn. If you have ever feared stalkers or imprisonment, “Misery” is bound to intensify those phobias. As they say, fame comes with a price.