Tag Archives: launch

News

2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE: Replacing the C-Class and E-Class Coupes

The new Mercedes-Benz CLE will initially be available only as a coupe. However, a convertible version with an automatic multi-layered fabric hood is set to be launched later this year.

There is no information yet on the pricing for either model in the UK, but it is expected to be above £50,000.

First Ride: New Mercedes CLE

Mercedes-Benz has made the decision to replace the C-Class and E-Class coupes and cabriolets with the CLE coupe and cabriolet models. This means that instead of four models, there will now only be two.

During an initial ride in a validation prototype with low mileage on smooth roads near the Mercedes-Benz factory in Sindelfingen, Germany, it became clear that the new CLE maintains the overall on-road character of its predecessor models.

Inside, there are numerous styling cues taken from the C-Class saloon and estate. However, the CLE coupe has a lower seating position in the front, giving it a sportier feel. Improved perceived quality can be seen in comparison to the old C-Class and E-Class coupes and cabriolets, as well as better performance of the infotainment system. The system uses the latest version of the Mercedes-Benz MBUX operating system, providing faster response times and higher resolution on new-generation displays.

In its initial configuration with a top-of-the-line six-cylinder petrol engine, the CLE coupe delivers smooth and effortless performance. The prototype also excels in mechanical refinement and effectively reduces wind noise at typical motorway speeds.

News

Take A Look At Suzuki’s Returning Models For The 2024 Model-Year

Despite the attention being focused on Suzuki’s new middleweight platform, it’s important not to overlook the other bikes in the brand’s lineup. Suzuki has recently announced its returning models for the 2024 model-year.

One of the returning models is the GSX-R750. Although considered a dinosaur by some, this supersport bike is beloved by sportbike enthusiasts and offers solid performance at an affordable price of $12,999. Powered by a 750cc, liquid-cooled, inline-four engine, the GSX-R750 features a compact and lightweight chassis.

2024 Suzuki GSX-R750
2024 Suzuki GSX-R750

The 2024 model-year introduces new color options for the GSX-R750, including the Pearl Brilliant White/Metallic Triton Blue combination, Pearl Brilliant White and Metallic Matte Stellar Blue, and Metallic Matte Black No. 2 and Glass Sparkle Black.

The Suzuki DR650S is also back for 2024, offering rugged capability and unwavering dependability for dual-sport enthusiasts. Equipped with a 644cc, oil-cooled, single-cylinder engine and housed in a robust steel frame, the DR650S is designed to handle various terrains. It is available in Solid Black and Iron Gray, as well as Solid Special White No. 2. The retail price is $7,099 USD.

2024 Suzuki DR650S

For those seeking off-road performance, the DR-Z400S is also making a return. Celebrating its 25th anniversary, the 2024 DR-Z400S is available in a race-inspired Champion Yellow colorway and a sleek Solid Black option. It features a 398cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine and an adjustable suspension system for personalized handling. The price is set at $7,199 USD, and it comes with black Excel rims and stainless steel spokes.

2024 Suzuki DR-Z400S

Last but not least, the Suzuki DR-Z400SM is back to cater to hooligan supermoto riders. Based on the reliable DR-Z400S platform, the DR-Z400SM features a 17-inch wheel setup and road-focused tires for exceptional handling on twisty roads. With its lightweight frame and slim profile, this bike is ideal for a versatile riding experience in the city and on curvy roads. The 2024 model is priced at $7,899 USD.

2024 Suzuki DR-Z400SM

In addition to the models, Suzuki offers a variety of Genuine Accessories to customize the bikes according to individual preferences. For more information on availability and test rides of the 2024 lineup, contact your nearest Suzuki dealership.

Featured

New Kia Seltos Teaser Gives Us A Detailed Look Of The Updated Interior


The facelifted SUV with new features and more technology is set to launch on July 4

Facelifted Kia Seltos DRLs

The facelifted Kia Seltos is ready to be launched early next month and after multiple spy shots of the compact SUV, the carmaker has finally released its first official teaser which gives us a glimpse into its cabin. The 2023 Seltos will get multiple updates over the current model, and here are the ones we spotted in the teaser:

Best Glimpse Of The Cabin So Far

Facelifted Kia Seltos Cabin

The teaser starts with a close-up of the ORVM and then we get the silhouette of its front profile and the sleek new LED DRLs. But the most important part of the teaser comes when we get a look inside the facelifted Seltos. The updated compact SUV gets an integrated display setup with a touchscreen infotainment system and a fully digital driver’s display. The steering wheel looks more or less the same but the dual-zone climate control unit below the new central AC vents has been redesigned.

Facelifted Kia Seltos LED Tail Lamps

The last shot of the teaser gives us a look at the new LED tail lamps of the compact SUV.

What We Already Know

Kia Seltos facelift cabin

The facelifted Seltos will get features like a panoramic sunroof and ADAS, which have been confirmed by multiple spy shots. It will also retain features like ventilated front seats, ambient lighting, up to six airbags, electronic stability control (ESC) and tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), from the outgoing model.

Powertrain

Facelifted Kia Seltos Front

The new Kia Seltos will likely carry forward the same engine options as the current model, which gets a 1.5-litre petrol engine (115PS/144Nm) paired with a 6-speed manual transmission or a CVT gearbox, and a 1.5-litre diesel unit (116PS/250Nm) mated to either a 6-speed iMT or a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Also Read: Kia Issues Recall For The Carens After Possible Instrument Cluster Glitch

The carmaker could also add a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine to this mix, replacing the 1.4-litre unit which was discontinued earlier. This engine, also seen on the Kia Carens, makes 160PS and 253Nm, paired with either a 6-speed iMT or a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT).

Price and Rivals

Facelifted Kia Seltos Rear

Kia will launch the facelifted Seltos on July 4, likely at a starting price of Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom). Once launched, it will renew its rivalry with the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, MG Astor and the upcoming Honda Elevate.

Read More on : Seltos diesel

News

Triumph India Opens Pre-Bookings For New Speed 400 And Scrambler 400 X

Triumph has finally unveiled its much-anticipated Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X models, which were developed in partnership with Indian manufacturer Bajaj. These small-displacement bikes have received positive first impressions and are expected to be strong competitors in the market. The new models feature a 398cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, single-cylinder engine that delivers 40 horsepower and 26 pound-feet of torque, making them more performance-oriented than rivals like Royal Enfield. Stylistically, the bikes possess a retro-chic look with LED headlights and gold anodized inverted front forks.

The global release of the Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X is expected to take place between 2023 and the start of 2024, with the Asian market being a key target. In India, the bikes will be unveiled on July 5, 2023, and deliveries will begin in August. Triumph India has already opened pre-bookings for the models, requiring a token amount of just Rs 2,000 ($24). The expected retail price is around Rs 300,000 ($3,656 USD), which suggests that the bikes will be successful in the Indian market and the rest of Asia.

Motorsport

Mazda CX-80: Spy Photos Show SUV Testing In Europe Before Launch

The upcoming Mazda CX-80 was recently spied testing in Europe, where it is set to be released later this year. The vehicle was heavily camouflaged, making it difficult to discern specific details about this three-row crossover. However, it seems to bear a resemblance to other models in Mazda’s lineup.

The CX-80 is essentially a three-row variant of the Mazda CX-60, sharing the same rear-wheel drive-based platform. Although it is challenging to determine with certainty, the CX-80 appears to have a slightly longer wheelbase and a larger window between the C and D pillars compared to the CX-60. Its side profile resembles the Mazda CX-70, featuring the familiar front-end styling found in other Mazda SUVs. Interestingly, from a distance, the camouflage creates an illusion reminiscent of the Rolls Royce Spectre.


First Drive

Polestar 2 Long Range Single Motor RWD 2023 first drive

During the UK launch of the Polestar 2, the Polestar team mentioned that they don’t typically do facelifts. Instead, they focus on subtle model-year updates and keeping their cars fresh through over-the-air updates. For 2023, the visual changes are minimal, with the fake grille now serving as the SmartZone for the driver assistance systems. Additionally, new wheel designs have been introduced, with the 20-inch option receiving positive reviews.

For the 2023 model, the main changes aim to reduce the Polestar 2’s energy consumption. Similar to the Volvo XC40 and Volvo C40 Recharge, the Polestar 2 now features a more efficient inverter and motor, which are mounted at the rear and power the rear wheels instead of the front. This change also brings a significant increase in power, with the long-range, single-motor version upgraded from 228bhp to 295bhp and capable of rapid charging at 205kW.

Consequently, the Polestar 2 has achieved a more favorable WLTP energy consumption figure of 4.2mpkWh, surpassing Hyundai’s Ioniq 6 streamliner, despite its less aerodynamic shape. Additionally, with a larger battery capacity and improved efficiency, the official range has increased to 406 miles, outperforming the Hyundai, Tesla Model 3 Long Range, and BMW i4 eDrive40.

Returning versions of the Polestar 2 include the Standard Range, Long Range Dual Motor, and Performance Pack, all benefiting from enhanced efficiency and more power. It’s worth noting that the entry-level car now claims a range of 331 miles, potentially making it the most appealing option in the lineup.

Two main questions arise from these updates: can the revised Polestar 2 deliver on its range claims in real-world conditions, and does the rear-wheel drive configuration make it more enjoyable to drive?

In terms of the first question, it’s important to acknowledge that no EV can fully match its laboratory claims, including the Polestar 2. However, after driving the car on various road types in mild conditions, it achieved an indicated energy consumption of 3.4mpkWh, translating to a range of 267 miles. This performance is comparable to the Ioniq 6, demonstrating a commendable result.

Featured

We Won’t See The Unveil Of 5-Door Mahindra Thar On Independence Day 2023

We Won’t See The Unveil Of 5-Door Mahindra Thar On Independence Day 2023


The 5-door Thar will likely be revealed closer to its slated launch in early 2024


Mahindra Thar 5-door




  • The 5-Door Thar unveil is officially not happening on August 15.




  • Instead, we might see a near-production-ready version of the XUV700 EV on the said date.




  • The 5-door Thar will feature a full metal hard top and electric sunroof with the possibility of six airbags.




  • To use the same 2-litre turbo-petrol and 2.2-litre diesel engines with manual and automatic transmissions.




Following numerous reports, the carmaker has officially confirmed that the global unveil of the 5-door Mahindra Thar won’t take place on August 15. Since the SUV is slated to launch in 2024 only, it would have likely been too early to unveil the model.


Mahindra Thar 5-Door


There is still a Mahindra event on August 15 but its exact details are unknown, but we’re expecting to see closer-to-production versions of some of their upcoming electric SUVs. The carmaker plans to launch its fresh line of EVs from 2025, starting with the XUV e8 which is the electric version of the XUV700.


Also Read: Mahindra Confirms No New Models For 2023; Big Launches Coming In 2024!


As per our last spy shot, the 5-door Thar appears to be nearly production-ready. It will have a similar design language to the three-door version inside and out, save for the two more doors. Two important additions will be a full metal hard top and an electric sunroof. Other features expected are a 7-inch touchscreen system, cruise control, auto AC, six airbags, and a rear camera.


Mahindra Thar ground clearance


Also Read: Maruti Jimny Vs Mahindra Thar – Price Check


The more practical Thar will be propelled by the same 2-litre turbo-petrol and 2.2-litre diesel engines as the 3-door Thar, possibly in a higher state of tune. 6-speed manual and automatic transmissions will also be offered with both the engines. Just like the 3-door, we’re expecting the 5-door version with rear-wheel- and four-wheel drivetrains.


The 5-door Thar is likely to retail from around Rs 15 lakh (ex-showroom), serving as a bigger and more premium option to the Maruti Jimny.


Read More on : Thar diesel

Featured

Lower Variant Of Facelifted Kia Seltos Spotted Uncovered Ahead Of July Launch


It will finally be receiving one most-awaited feature: a panoramic sunroof

Kia Seltos facelift spied

  • Kia will launch the facelifted Seltos on July 4.

  • New spy video shows a Tech Line variant of a white Seltos with black roof.

  • Its exterior changes include new alloy wheels and connected LED taillights.

  • The video also gives a quick glimpse of the cabin showing the connected screens setup.

  • New features onboard to include dual-zone AC and ADAS.

  • To be provided with the same 1.5-litre petrol, turbo-petrol and diesel engines as the Carens.

  • Prices are likely to begin from Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom).

We are just a week away from the launch of the facelifted Kia Seltos in India. Leaked images and videos of the updated compact SUV have been surfacing online, with the latest sighting revealing an undisguised Tech (HT) Line variant of the new Seltos.

What Does The Video Uncover?

Kia Seltos facelift alloy wheel design spied

The spy video shows the facelifted Seltos in a white with black roof exterior paint option, without any camouflage. It showcases the SUV’s bigger grille, new alloy wheel design, and connected LED taillights. The video does not confirm if the spotted model had the panoramic sunroof or not.

Interior Updates

Kia Seltos facelift interior spied

While there isn’t much revealed about the SUV’s interior in the video, a brief glimpse shows an all-black cabin and the connected screens setup. Kia is expected to offer the Seltos with a revamped cabin and dashboard layout, featuring newly designed central AC vents and a more premium climate control panel.

More Tech To Play With

Kia Seltos facelift cabin

In addition to the new climate control panel and panoramic sunroof, the Kia Seltos is likely to come with a digital driver’s display. The touchscreen options will remain the same, with 8-inch and 10.25-inch screens. Key features like ventilated front seats, wireless phone charging, and an air purifier are expected to be retained.

The SUV’s safety kit will include advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), such as lane-keep assist and adaptive cruise control. Other safety features onboard are expected to be six airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchorages, and a 360-degree camera.

A Familiar Set Of Powertrains

The new Seltos will be offered with the same 115PS, 1.5-litre petrol and 116PS diesel engines as the current model. The petrol engine will continue to be paired with a 6-speed manual transmission and a CVT, while the diesel engine will get a 6-speed iMT and a 6-speed AT. Instead of the 1.4-litre turbo-petrol unit, the facelifted Seltos will receive the Carens’s 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine (160PS/253Nm), paired with either a 6-speed iMT or a 7-speed DCT.

Launch And Price

Kia Seltos facelift rear spied

The facelifted Kia Seltos is set to go on sale on July 4, with prices expected to start from Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom). It will compete against the Maruti Grand Vitara, Hyundai Creta, Skoda Kushaq, Toyota Hyryder, Volkswagen Taigun, MG Astor, and the upcoming Citroen C3 Aircross.

Image Source

Read more on: Seltos diesel

Featured

5-Door Suzuki Jimny Coming to Australia


The 3-door version of the Suzuki Jimny is already available in Australia

Maruti Jimny

  • The launch date and specifications for the 5-door Suzuki Jimny in Australia have not been revealed yet.

  • The 3-door version of the Jimny is already on sale in Australia. It is equipped with a 1.5-litre petrol engine and four-wheel drive (4WD).

  • It is expected that the 5-door Jimny in Australia will have similar features to the off-roader version in India.

  • The 3-door Jimny in Australia also has advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) features.

The 3-door Suzuki Jimny was not available in India, but now a 5-door version called the Maruti Jimny has been introduced. With additional doors, a larger boot, and updated features, the longer Jimny is going global and will soon be available in Australia as well. Although Suzuki has yet to release details about its specifications and features, here’s what we can anticipate.

What to Expect

Maruti Jimny

The Australian-spec 5-door Jimny is likely to have the same powertrain as the India-spec 5-door Jimny, with no changes expected under the hood. It will use a 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission, and come with 4-wheel drive (4WD) as standard. Compared to the 3-door Jimny in Australia, the India-spec Jimny offers slightly better performance with 105PS and 134Nm of power, which is 3PS and 4Nm more.

Expected Features

Five-door Maruti Jimny Cabin

The Maruti Jimny comes with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, cruise control, and automatic climate control. In terms of safety, it is equipped with six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control (ESP), and a rearview camera. It is expected that the 5-door Suzuki Jimny for the Australian market will have a similar set of features.

However, the Australian-spec 3-door Jimny goes further in terms of safety features by including advanced driver assistance system features such as lane departure warning, autonomous emergency braking, and high beam assist, which are not available in Maruti Suzuki models in India.

Also Read: Did The Maruti Jimny Prices Miss Their Mark?

It is also worth noting that the base-spec 3-door Jimny in Australia does not come with a touchscreen unit, while the top-spec version has a smaller 7-inch touchscreen system, similar to the base-spec Jimny in India.

Jimny Rivals

In India, the Maruti Jimny competes with the Force Gurkha and Mahindra Thar. In Australia, there is no direct rival for the 3-door or 5-door Jimny, but other SUVs of similar size and price are available. The price of the Jimny in India ranges from Rs 12.74 lakh to Rs 15.05 lakh (ex-showroom pan India), while the 3-door Jimny in Australia costs up to AUD 33,500, which is approximately Rs 18.28 lakh.

Read More on : Maruti Jimny on road price

Featured

Upcoming Car Launches in the Second Half of 2023


Introduction

In the second half of 2023, car enthusiasts can look forward to the launch of more than five brand new cars. From electric vehicles to facelifts, here are the top 10 upcoming car models:

Kia Seltos Facelift

The Kia Seltos compact SUV is getting a major update after four years. It will feature refreshed exterior and interior designs, along with new features like dual 10.25-inch screens, a panoramic sunroof, and radar-based ADAS technology.

Maruti Invicto

The Maruti Invicto MPV, launching on July 6, is the brand’s most expensive model. It is a rebadged version of the Toyota Innova Hycross with minor styling tweaks. The Invicto comes with a 2-liter petrol engine and strong hybrid technology.

Hyundai Exter

The Hyundai Exter is an entry-level SUV and a competitor to the Tata Punch. It will be available in manual and AMT transmissions, with a CNG version also offered. The Exter will feature an electric sunroof, an 8-inch touchscreen system, and six airbags.

Honda Elevate

The Honda Elevate is a compact SUV powered by a petrol engine. It will feature an electric sunroof, a 10.25-inch touchscreen system, and ADAS technology.

Citroen C3 Aircross

The Citroen C3 Aircross is a three-row SUV priced competitively against the Hyundai Creta, Maruti Grand Vitara, and Honda Elevate. It will have a 110PS 1.2-liter turbo-petrol engine and offer a 10-inch touchscreen system, dual airbags, and TPMS.

Hyundai i20 Facelift

A facelifted version of the Hyundai i20 hatchback is expected soon. It will sport a refreshed exterior design, and the interior will see minimal changes. The powertrain options will remain the same.

Force Gurkha 5-Door

The five-door version of the Force Gurkha is likely to be available for sale in the next six months. It will have the same engine as the three-door version but with a stretched rear profile.

BYD Seal

The BYD Seal is an electric sedan with a large 82.5kWh battery pack that claims a range of up to 700 kilometers. It offers features such as a rotating 15.6-inch touchscreen, a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display, and radar-based ADAS.

Tata Punch EV

The Tata Punch is not only getting a CNG version but an electric version as well. It will feature multiple battery packs, offering a claimed range of up to 350 kilometers.

Nissan X-Trail

The Nissan X-Trail is a full-size SUV that is expected to launch towards the end of this year. It will be a rival to the Toyota Fortuner and MG Gloster, featuring a 1.5-liter mild-hybrid turbo-petrol engine or a strong hybrid powertrain.

(All prices mentioned are ex-showroom prices.)