The upcoming 2024 Honda Prologue will come equipped with Google features, including Google Maps. This is separate from Android Auto, which also offers Google Maps. One of the standout features highlighted by Honda is that Google Maps can optimize long-distance routes based on EV recharging, finding charging stations along the way, and selecting the fastest route to them. Honda also mentioned that Google Maps will estimate the charging time needed to reach the destination and can initiate preconditioning of the EV battery when the destination is a DC fast charging station. This can significantly reduce fast charge times and allow drivers to travel long distances with minimal delays.
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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, 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.
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, 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 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 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, 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
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 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, 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
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.
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2024 Mazda3: Pricing and Packaging
Mazda3 to receive new packages including Carbon Turbo edition, greater connected technology and enhanced suite of standard safety features.
- New Carbon Turbo combines bespoke exterior styling with refined turbocharged performance
- Newly available 10.25″ infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity
- 2024 Mazda3 has a starting MSRP1 of $24,170
IRVINE, Calif., June 13, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Mazda North American Operations is kicking off its 2024 model year line-up announcements with updates to the Mazda3. Available as a sedan or hatchback, the Mazda3 offers customers a compact car with engaging driving dynamics and a sophisticated design. Hatchback models will arrive at dealerships this summer, followed by sedan models in the fall.
For 2024, the standard Mazda3 2.5 S models utilize the naturally-aspirated Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter engine that produces 191 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque on regular or premium fuel and is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode. Other standard features include front-wheel drive (FWD), cylinder-deactivation technology, and G-Vectoring Control Plus. The 2024 Mazda3 is available in multiple packaging options allowing owners to choose the vehicle that best fits their day-to-day lives and driving preferences.
MAZDA3 2.5 S
Mazda3 2.5 S, available on sedan models, comes standard with many i-Activsense safety features that include Mazda Radar Cruise Control with stop and go function, Smart Brake Support, Lane Departure Warning, Lane-Keep Assist, Driver Attention Alert, High Beam Control, and, for 2024, now features Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and Rear Door Alert as standard. Mazda Connected Services iscomplemen for three years, which provides the ability to monitor the vehicle remotely through the MyMazda app and includes in-car Wi-Fi hotspot for three months or up to 2GB on trial, whichever comes first2.
The stylish interior features an 8.8-inch center display with the latest Mazda Connect infotainment system that can be controlled with the multi-function Commander knob. Other standard features include push button start, remote keyless illuminated entry, a rearview camera, two front USB-C inputs, Bluetooth, a six-speaker sound system, electronic parking brake, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and black cloth seats. The exterior provides LED lighting for the automatic headlights, combination taillights, and daytime running lights, to go along with a matte finish front grille and silver finish 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels.
MAZDA3 2.5 S SELECT SPORT
New for 2024, the Mazda3 2.5 S Select Sport, available as either a hatchback or sedan, builds upon the standard model and adds convenience features such as Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, rear armrest with cup holders, and door mirror turn signals. Design upgrades include black leatherette seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels in a black finish with matching black heated mirrors.
MAZDA3 2.5 S PREFERRED
Building off the Select Sport package, the Mazda3 2.5 S Preferred includes a power moonroof, available black or greige leatherette seats, heated front seats, eight-way power driver seats with power lumbar support and seat memory. The Preferred features some unique visual cues, as well, with body-colored side mirrors that feature LED turn signal indicators, and sedan models sporting 18-inch wheels in a silver finish while hatchback models have a gray metallic finish.
MAZDA3 2.5 S CARBON EDITION
Updated for 2024, Mazda3 Carbon Edition models now feature wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, as well as Qi wireless phone charging. Available as a hatchback or sedan, the Carbon Edition features standard i-Activ all-wheel drive (AWD), helping to enhance the vehicle’s performance. This unique model is only offered in Polymetal Gray exterior paint and red leather, and shares features found in the Preferred package along with black finish 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels, and gloss black-heated door mirrors.
MAZDA3 2.5 S PREMIUM
Exclusive to 2024 Mazda3 hatchback models, the 2.5 S Premium package is unique amongst the Mazda3 line-up featuring standard front-wheel drive (FWD) and an available Skyactiv-MT six-speed manual transmission. This package is generously equipped with Bose 12-speaker premium audio with aluminum speaker grilles, SiriusXM satellite radio with a complementary three-month trial, full-color windshield-projected Active Driving Display, Mazda Navigation System, paddle shifters (AT-only), Adaptive Front-lighting System, and a shark fin antenna. Leather seats are available in black or red. This model is equipped with 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels in a black finish, and LED signature illumination headlights and taillights.
MAZDA3 2.5 CARBON TURBO
The all-new Mazda3 2.5 Carbon Turbo builds upon the success of the Carbon Edition line-up, now blending turbocharged performance and bespoke styling. These engaging vehicles will continue to be a favorite among driving enthusiasts looking for a modern hatchback or sedan with refined performance. All Mazda3 Turbo models are powered by the Skyactiv-G 2.5 Turbo engine delivering 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque with premium 93 octane fuel paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard i-Activ AWD. With regular 87 octane fuel, the turbo engine is capable of 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.
This special package is finished in Zircon Sand Metallic with 18-inch black metallic finish wheels and gloss black door mirrors. Unique exterior styling elements are matched to a black interior that utilizes exclusive terracotta leatherette along with bold red contrast stitching. All Mazda3 Turbo models now feature a larger 10.25-inch infotainment display that adds touchscreen functionality when paired to Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, which both now have wireless connectivity, as well as Qi wireless phone charging.
MAZDA3 2.5 TURBO PREMIUM PLUS
The Mazda3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus elevates the refined styling with gloss black aerodynamics accents for both the sedan and the hatchback. The sedan includes a rear lip spoiler, while hatchback models are equipped with a rear roof spoiler and front air dam. Rear Direction Base Safety, which includes Smart Brake Support-Reverse and Smart Brake Support-Rear Crossing, is added to complete the full i-Activsense suite of safety features. Leather seats are available in black or red for the hatchback and black or white for the sedan, along with a Bose 12-speaker premium audio system. Upgrades include Traffic Jam Assist, 360° View Monitor with front and rear parking sensors, Homelink added to the frameless auto-dim rearview mirror, and Mazda Navigation System, along with an Active Driving Display and Traffic Sign Recognition.
MSRP3 FOR THE 2024 MAZDA3 IS AS FOLLOWS:
|
Model |
Drivetrain |
Sedan |
Hatchback |
|
Mazda3 2.5 S |
FWD |
$24,170 |
– |
|
Mazda3 2.5 S Select Sport |
FWD |
$24,690 |
$25,690 |
|
Mazda3 2.5 S Preferred |
FWD |
$26,190 |
$27,390 |
|
Mazda3 2.5 S Carbon Edition |
AWD |
$29,060 |
$30,260 |
|
Mazda3 2.5 S Premium (6MT) |
FWD |
– |
$30,350 |
|
Mazda3 2.5 Carbon Turbo |
AWD |
$31,750 |
$32,950 |
|
Mazda3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus |
AWD |
$35,450 |
$36,650 |
PREMIUM PAINT COLORS:
|
Soul Red Crystal Metallic |
$595 |
|
Machine Gray Metallic |
$595 |
|
Polymetal Gray Metallic |
$450 |
|
Snowflake White Pearl Mica |
$450 |
|
Ceramic Metallic |
$450 |
Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, California, and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Columbia through approximately 795 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada Inc. in Richmond Hill, Ontario; operations in Mexico are managed by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City; and operations in Colombia are managed by Mazda de Colombia in Bogota, Colombia. For more information on Mazda vehicles, including photography and B-roll, please visit the online Mazda media center at News.MazdaUSA.com.
Follow MNAO’s social media channels through Twitter and Instagram at @MazdaUSA and Facebook at Facebook.com/MazdaUSA.
|
1 MSRP does not include $1,165 for destination and handling ($1,210 in Alaska), taxes, title or additional fees. Dealers set actual sale prices. |
Volkswagen Group has completed the sale of its shares in Volkswagen Group Rus LLC including its local subsidiaries (Volkswagen Components and Services LLC, Scania Leasing LLC, Scania Finance LLC, Scania Insurance LLC) to Art-Finance LLC who is supported by the Russian Dealer Avilon. With the registration of the transaction, ownership of the shares in the authorized capital of Volkswagen Group Rus LLC and its subsidiaries is transferred from the sellers to the buyer. The new owner will acquire all shares in the Russian subsidiaries. The deal has been approved by the Russian government authorities. The transaction includes the production facilities in Kaluga, the importer structure (distribution and after-sales business) and the warehousing and financial services activities with all its associated employees. Citroën has revealed a new version of My Ami Buggy, which will go on sale in the UK on 20 June at 2.00pm. Based on the Citroën Ami 100% ëlectric quadricycle, 1,000 examples will be sold worldwide, with just 40 available to UK buyers. My Ami Buggy will be priced at £10,495 OTR. The previous ‘Ultra-Limited Series’ My Ami Buggy, which was available in France last year, sold out all 50 units in under 18 minutes. My Ami Buggy emits zero emissions in use and has a 5.4kWh battery that charges in four hours. With a range of up to 46 miles (WMTC**), and a top speed of 28mph, it is a modern solution that delivers on Citroën’s promise to provide affordable and clean mobility solutions for all. My Ami Buggy features an adventurous spirit, trim for the great outdoors and fun accessories, such as the Khaki exterior colour, and black protective elements including reinforced bumpers, skid plates, headlamp surrounds, wheel arch extensions, and a rear spoiler – all of which combine to give a muscular appearance. Yellow accents feature across the exterior and throughout the interior, demonstrating My Ami Buggy’s vitality and fun nature. Yellow flashes are embossed on the front panel, with yellow arrows on the wheel arches. Interior storage bins, door opening straps, bag hooks, and the carpet and seat stitching, also feature yellow accents. The new instrument cluster boats a rounded cover for a retro feel. My Ami Buggy does not have traditional doors or a conventional sunroof. Instead, the driver and passenger can enjoy their leisure time and feel as close to nature as possible with a real sense of freedom. Removable plastic covers and a black waterproof fabric roof have been designed to protect occupants from the wind, cold and rain. When not required, the roof and door covers can be simply and easily rolled back, and secured with snap buttons, or they can be removed entirely. The door and roof frames have been designed to integrate storage space for the roof and plastic weather protection – while also enhancing the style of My Ami Buggy. At the front, the roof frame has been extended to integrate a sun visor The new My Ami Buggy also features an element from the acid yellow luggage range that was unveiled in December 2021 with the original My Ami Buggy concept. The yellow bag fits into the centre of the steering wheel and is held in place with clip-on straps – this provides a convenient storage space for personal belongings when on the move. My Ami Buggy is also available with the Ultimate Ears Boom lightweight Bluetooth® speaker that fits into a specifically design space on the dashboard. The speaker is waterproof and sturdy with a 15-hour battery life for all your adventures in My Ami Buggy. Greg Taylor, Managing Director at Citroën UK, said: “Following the fantastic success of the My Ami Buggy ‘Ultra-Limited Series’ in France in 2022, with all 50 units selling out in less than 18 minutes – and with the fastest customer completing the purchase of their My Ami Buggy in 2 minutes and 53 seconds – I am delighted that UK customers will also have the opportunity to buy a My Ami Buggy. Ami 100% ëlectric, My Ami Cargo, and My Ami Buggy are revolutionising urban mobility, with over 35,000 units sold worldwide to date. The growing line-up demonstrates our commitment to offering affordable electric mobility for all, and we’re doing so in the fun and innovative way that only Citroën can.” My Ami Buggy goes on sale in the UK at 2.00pm on 20 June, exclusively at https://www.citroen.co.uk/ami Since its launch in April 2020, Citroën Ami 100% ëlectric has been a standout success in the micro-mobility market. Ami is easy to drive because it is ultra-compact at 2.41 metres long. Electric power offers smooth and dynamic driving around town, and it can be charged in just 4 hours. Ami was created to be used by as many people as possible and by drivers of all ages. It can be driven just as easily by a 17-year-old as by a 77-year-old. It is also affordable and has a very low total cost of ownership. * UK, France, Italy, Spain, Belgium, Greece, Portugal, Luxembourg, Morocco, and Turkey. ** World Motorcycle Test Cycle
CarbonconnectededitiongreaterincludingMazda3packagesreceivetechnologyTurbo
Volkswagen Group has sold its shares in Volkswagen Group Rus to a local investor
NEW CITROËN MY AMI BUGGY UNVEILED: OPENS FOR ORDERS ON TUESDAY 20 JUNE IN THE UK
