Tag Archives: might

Skoda Kushaq Introduces Limited Edition Matte Color Option


Only 500 units of the Matte Edition are available, so act fast if you want one

  • The new Skoda Kushaq Matte Edition is launched with a starting price of Rs 16.19 lakh.

  • It costs Rs 40,000 more than the top-end Style trim.

  • The Matte Edition is available with both 1-litre and 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engines, and comes with the option of manual and automatic transmissions.

  • It features a Carbon Steel matte paint finish, along with gloss black accents on the ORVMs, door handles, and rear spoiler.

  • The interior remains unchanged, but it is equipped with a larger 10-inch touchscreen system.

Car buyers who appreciate a matte finish on premium SUVs with powerful engines will be thrilled to know that the Skoda Kushaq now offers a Matte Edition in the striking shade of Carbon Steel. Positioned between the top-end Style and Monte Carlo variants, this limited-run edition is available in only 500 units.

Prices by Variant

Matte Edition

Manual

Automatic

1-litre TSI

Rs 16.19 lakh

Rs 17.79 lakh

1.5-litre TSI

Rs 18.19 lakh

Rs 19.39 lakh

The Matte Edition costs an additional Rs 40,000 compared to the corresponding Style variants but is Rs 30,000 cheaper than the top-spec Monte Carlo.

Changes in Styling

The Skoda Kushaq already offered the Carbon Steel shade, but the matte paint finish enhances its sporty appeal. The ORVMs, door handles, and rear spoiler are finished in gloss black, adding to its stylish look. However, it still retains some chrome finishing on the grille, trunk garnish, and window garnish. Additionally, the 1.5-litre TSI variants have an exclusive badge to differentiate them from the 1-litre TSI variant.

No Interior Changes

The interior of the Skoda Kushaq Matte Edition remains the same, featuring a blacked-out cabin with leatherette upholstery. However, it does come equipped with the 10-inch touchscreen system that was available at the time of launch. This system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and includes a 6-speaker sound system with a subwoofer.

Also Read: Survey Reveals Safety Ratings And Airbags Are More Important Than Fuel Economy In Car Buying Decisions

In terms of features, the Skoda Kushaq Matte Edition retains an electric sunroof, automatic AC, an 8-inch digital driver’s display, a wireless charger, up to six airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and a rear camera.

All Powertrain Options

The Kushaq Matte Edition offers the choice between a 115PS 1-litre turbo-petrol engine and a 150PS 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine. The 1-litre engine comes with a 6-speed manual transmission and the option of a 6-speed automatic. The 1.5-litre engine is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic (DSG) unit.

Price and Competitors

The Skoda Kushaq is priced between Rs 11.59 lakh and Rs 19.69 lakh (ex-showroom). It competes with popular SUVs like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, MG Astor, Toyota Hyryder, Maruti Grand Vitara, Volkswagen Taigun, as well as upcoming models like the Honda Elevate and Citroen C3 Aircross.

Read More on: Kushaq on road price

Sony Accidentally Exposes the Budgets of Major PlayStation Games

Sony has inadvertently disclosed the financial impact that Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard would have on its business. The company filed paperwork with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to demonstrate how the acquisition would affect Sony’s finances. The argument was that Sony would experience significant revenue declines as a result of the popular “Call of Duty” franchise becoming an Xbox exclusive.

An analysis of the redacted paperwork by The Verge revealed that “Call of Duty” games generated approximately $800 million for PlayStation in the United States in 2021. While the exact global figure cannot be confirmed, the document suggests that the franchise could be worth over $1.5 billion worldwide for PlayStation. Furthermore, the document appears to disclose that the value of the franchise itself for Sony is $13.9 billion or more.

Currently, only one more “Call of Duty” game is planned to be released on both PlayStation and Xbox, and Sony claims that one million players exclusively play the franchise’s releases. The future of the hearing is uncertain since the paperwork and related exhibits were removed after their discovery.

Top 10 Features Of The 2023 BMW X1

The 2023 BMW X1 might be the most affordable Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) in the Bavarian carmaker’s lineup. For the vehicle’s third generation, BMW gives the X1 a complete redesign. The new BMW X1 is bigger, bolder, and smarter while retaining a price tag that still makes it appealing to families looking for an entry-level luxury compact SUV.

The comprehensive upgrade might make you look at the 2023 BMW X1 twice, as the two-row SUV closely resembles its more premium X3 and X5 siblings. The latest X1 is wider, taller, and longer compared to the 2022 model. It looks chunkier with more aggressive lines and a less rounded exterior silhouette. The transformation is carried over to the interior, which clearly reflects the design ethos of BMW.

Aside from the cohesive makeover, BMW installed a more potent yet efficient engine under the hood of the X1. The vehicle is also packed with technologies to make the ride comfortable, safe, and pleasurable to the driver and passengers. Here are the best features of the 2023 BMW X1 that will help put it on top of the list of competition such as the Volvo XC40, Mercedes-Benz GLB, or the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque.

Looking at information from BMW, Kelley Blue Book, and Edmunds, we have put together a list of the best features of the 2023 BMW X1.

RELATED: The 2023 BMW X1 Just Put the Rest of the Compact Crossover Segment in Check

1 The 2023 BMW X1 Sports A More Aggressive Exterior

BMW
A front action shot of an orange 2023 BMW X1 crusing on the road

Gone are the days when the X1 is the humblest of the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) brood of the BMW fleet. Aside from impressive 2023 BMW X1 specs sheets, the new iteration of the X1 represents a big leap in design that is meant to showcase the ride’s more adventurous character. Compared to the older model, the new X1 is 1.7 inches longer (177.2 inches), 0.9 inch wider (72.6 inches), and 1.7 inches taller (64.6 inches).

The bolder design makes use of more sculpted surfaces. The distinct kidney grille complements the more pronounced front end of the new BMW X1. The sides also evoke a more rugged look with flared wheel arches and a long roofline. Meanwhile, the rear further emphasizes the wider profile of the compact SUV manufactured by BMW at its Regensburg plant in Germany.

Other elements such as the standard 18-inch rims, black trim on the lower edge of the X1’s body, and exciting headlight design go consistent with the muscular stance of the ride.

2 Spacious Interior Combining Comfort, Luxury, And Functionality

n
n “” data-modal-id=”single-image-modal” data-modal-container-id=”single-image-modal-container” data-img-caption=””BMW””>
BMW
Interior of the 2023 BMW X1 showing front seats, windshield, and dashboard.

The boxier dimension of the new BMW X1 translates to a roomier interior that seats five adults with enough headroom and legroom to boot. The seats in the 2023 BMW X1 were newly developed. Perforated leather-alternative SensaTec completes their tailored look, and more importantly, they were engineered to ensure you’re comfortable even during long drives.

The luggage capacity of the X1 to the rear is 25.7 cubic-feet and 57.2 cubic-feet when the rear seats are folded. This means the third-generation BMW X1 boasts of bigger cargo space than its top competitors such as the Audi Q3 (23.7 and 48 cubic-feet) or the three-row Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class (12.4 and 62 cubic-feet).

A clean dashboard layout will greet you when you enter the cabin of the X1. Other notable elegant yet functional design elements include a floating armrest, smartphone tray, slim air vents, door trims, enough room for coffee cups or water bottles, and ambient lighting.

3 Expansive Curved Display Gives You Total Control

BMW
Digital Instrument Cluster and Central Information Display of the 2023 BMW X1

The 2023 BMW X1 will not be left behind when it comes to impressive screens on the dashboard. A 10.25-inch Digital Instrument Cluster and a 10.7-inch Central Information Display are in the front and center of the driver-centric interior design. The screen real estate is a big upgrade from the 5.7-inch and 8.8-inch setup of the 2022 model X1. The BMW Curved Display runs with the iDrive 8 that’s now seamlessly compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Note that the iDrive rotary controller is gone. The latest system is geared toward intuitive touch and encourages users to use voice control to make the most of the tech-forward features of the vehicle. The crisp and responsive display and customizable graphic layout allow you to easily monitor the vehicle’s status or toggle functions and features that fit the driving situation.

RELATED: 10 Best Small SUV Under $50,000

4 Well-Equipped Compact SUV For Its Price

BMW
Sample shot of the digital instrument cluster of the BMW X1

The 2023 BMW X1 is an affordable luxury SUV that’s perfect whether you’re single or a small family looking for a daily driver. It’s a versatile entry-level luxury SUV that will not break the bank while providing the creature comforts and space suitable for your next grocery run or a quick family out-of-town trip.

The 2023 BMW X1 prices will not burn a big hole in your pocket. The vehicle is only available in one trim. The X1 xDrive28i model starts at $39,100 plus a destination fee of $995. The sticker price is comparable to the Volvo XC40 ($36,350), Audi Q3 ($36,000), and Mercedes-Benz GLA ($37,500).

The vehicle is now available in the United States and other markets. Bigger than its predecessor and more powerful than most of its competitors, you’ll get that familiar well-built, luxury European vehicle vibes with spirited driving, loads of technology, and packages available to enhance the ride further.

5 More Potent Yet Efficient Engine

BMW
Rear quarter shot of a blue BMW X1 third gen

On top of the 2023 BMW X1 specs is a potent powerplant. Under its hood is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The TwinPower BMW engine boasts 241 horsepower at 4,500 to 6,500 rpm and a 295 pound-feet of torque at 1,500 to 4,000 rpm. That’s a good spread of power and more than enough if you’re zipping in city streets or going for long highway drives. This engine and transmission combo can bring the X1 xDrive28i from 0-60 MPH in 6.2 seconds.

Despite being heftier, the 2023 BMW X1 consumes just around 3.6 gallons per 100 miles. It has a fuel economy rating of 25 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway, or 28 MPG combined city/highway EPA rating.

Engine Specs

Manufacturer

BMW

Configuration

Inline four-cylinder

Displacement

2.0 Liter Turbocharged

Power

241 Horsepower

Torque

295 Pound-feet

Fuel

Gas

Fuel Economy

Fuel Type

Gas

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy

28 MPG Combined City/Highway 25 MPG City 34 MPG Highway

EPA-Estimated Range

400 Miles

Annual Fuel Costs

$2,350

Tank Capacity

14.3 Gallons

6 Standard All-Wheel Drive

BMW
The 2023 BMW X1 comes with the carmaker’s intelligent all-wheel drive

The 2023 BMW X1 xDrive28i, as the name suggests, is an all-wheel drive vehicle. The xDrive system intelligently sends power to all four wheels of the vehicle depending on the driving conditions. This ensures you maximize the traction while the vehicle remains stable and agile. In normal driving conditions that do not require power on all wheels, the system only sends power to the front wheels. However, during more challenging road conditions, the vehicle shifts the power to its rear wheels to improve traction and directional stability.

BMW redeveloped and improved the X1’s front and rear axle with positive effects on its performance, steering feedback, stability, and efficiency. The damping system has also been re-engineered to reduce body movement over bumps and better handle corners.

RELATED: Best Small SUVs Under $40,000

7 Multiple Safety Features

n
n “” data-modal-id=”single-image-modal” data-modal-container-id=”single-image-modal-container” data-img-caption=””BMW””>
BMW
Side profile of the 2023 BMW X1

BMW has been known as a leader in safety technologies, and the 2023 BMW X1 does not fall short in this category. The vehicle rolls out of the factory with these standard high-tech safety and driver assistance features:

  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Active Blind Spot Detection
  • Frontal Collision Warning with City Collision Mitigation
  • Parking Distance Control
  • Automatic High Beams

These features boost safety in different driving conditions. The Active Blind Spot Detection now comes with an exit warning function, which can warn you of an approaching vehicle or cyclist on either side of the vehicle. The system will flash the ambient lighting or the LEDs in the vehicle’s mirrors and emit a warning sound when you’re about to open the door, and there’s a risk of collision.

Meanwhile, the Collision Warning with a braking function can help you avoid accidents. It gives you visual and acoustic warnings when there’s a pedestrian or vehicle that you might hit in front or rear. The system can automatically apply the brakes to prevent an accident from happening.

8 BMW X1 Drive Modes To Match Your Driving Style

BMW
2023 BMW X1 allows you to switch to a different drive mode using a switch labelled My Modes near its gear selector

Next to the gear selector of the X1 is a switch that you can easily toggle to set My Modes. This allows you to choose the driving style that reflects your mood. The vehicle will change its behavior when you select one of these modes:

  • Personal
  • Sport
  • Efficient

The BMW X1 will automatically adjust how the engine performs and how the car handles depending on your selection.

Your choice will also change the interior lighting and display on the big screens of the vehicle. For example, in Sport Mode, the display will turn red to complement the more spirited driving style. The Personal Mode will allow you to customize your display’s content, layout, and interior lighting. Lastly, the Efficient Mode changes the theme to blue and optimizes the driving experience with fuel efficiency in focus.

9 Intelligent Personal Assistant

BMW
The Central Information Display of the 2023 BMW X1 allows you to control the different functions and features of the vehicle.

To make life easier for BMW owners, the X1 comes with an Intelligent Personal Assistant. Aside from greeting you when you get behind the wheel, you can conveniently instruct the car to open windows, adjust the temperature, or find the nearest gas station or your favorite restaurant using natural dialogue. Aside from voice commands, the system shows you that it is attentively listening by displaying graphics on its large screens and showing the position of whoever is talking to it.

The Intelligent Personal Assistant is practically a car expert that knows everything about your vehicle. It can help you with different functions, features, or service requirements. It remembers your needs and learns your habits or settings. All it takes is a “Hey BMW…” and your wish is its command.

RELATED: 2023 BMW X1: Performance, Price, And Photos

10 Wide Range Of Options And Packages To Fit Your Lifestyle

BMW
BMW M badge on a 2023 X1 with M package

While the 2023 BMW X1 is already an attractive package with its standard features, the car manufacturer offers a long list of optional equipment:

  • Design xLine – comes with optional 19-inch Y-spoke wheels or 20-inch multi-spoke alloy rims; Black High Gloss, Fine-Wood, or Aluminum trim; SensaTec dashboard; additional design elements for the exterior.
  • Convenience Package – comes with wireless device charging feature; Comfort Access keyless entry; auto-dimming mirrors; panoramic moonroof
  • M Sport Package- comes with optional 19- or 20-inch rims; Aerodynamic kit; M steering wheel; shift paddles; Sport seats; Adaptive M suspension; and more
  • Premium Package – Parking Assistant Plus; Head-Up Display; Harman/Kardon sound system; Interior Camera; Surround View; Drive Recorder; Live Cockpit Professional; and more

You can also get select upgrades such as remote engine start, universal garage door opener, sport seats, among others to enhance your driving experience without inflating the 2023 BMW X1 prices too much.

8 Best 50-55 Inch OLED TVs On The Market Right Now

The LG C2, despite being succeeded by the C3, is still considered the better option. While the C3 offers slightly higher brightness and a newer interface, it is significantly more expensive, priced at $1,899. On the other hand, the C2 can often be found at a discount of around $600, making it a more affordable choice. Both models use the same panel, so there are no hardware upgrades with the newer version. The C2 delivers top-tier image quality, 120Hz VRR, and LG’s Game Optimizer, all packaged in a minimalist design suitable for any space.

The LG C2 features the α9 Gen 5 processor, which enhances the sharpness of lower-resolution content with 4K upscaling. It also supports Dolby Atmos for a more immersive sound experience. LG’s proprietary smart TV OS offers seamless integration with various streaming platforms, including Apple TV, Disney+, Netflix, and Hulu. There are few drawbacks to the C2, especially considering its current discounted price. As of now, you can find it on Amazon for just under $1,299.

Watch This Old CZ125 Motorcycle Get Restored to Its Former Glory

If you’re not deeply involved in the world of motorcycles, you might not be familiar with CZ, a motorcycle manufacturer founded in Czechoslovakia in 1919. Originally a branch of Škoda Works, CZ transitioned from producing weapons to motorized bicycles in 1932. The company started making CZ-branded motorcycles in 1935 and continued to do so until the 1990s, with a brief interruption during World War II when they made machine parts for the Germans.

Now that we know a little bit about CZ’s history, let’s dive into this fascinating restoration video by the Crazy Restoration team.

The video features the restoration of a mid-60s CZ Model 453. This particular motorcycle had seen better days, with its engine locked up, extensive rust and dirt, bent wheels, and a large dent with a gash in the fuel tank. At first glance, it might seem like a lost cause.

However, the Crazy Restoration team doesn’t give up easily. Over the course of around six months, they put in countless hours of hard work, sanding, fabricating, painting, and laboring to bring this motorcycle back to life. They salvaged and reused as many parts as possible and sourced new old stock (NOS) and aftermarket parts where needed. The result of their efforts is truly impressive.

If you’re curious to see the transformation, I highly recommend watching the video. It’s a testament to the team’s dedication and a joy to witness another classic bike saved from the scrapyard.