Tag Archives: variant

Motorsport

Experience the Thrilling Journey of Bugatti Chiron Climbing a Mountain in First-Person Perspective

The Bugatti Chiron Sport, the first variant of the renowned model, amazed car enthusiasts when it made its debut at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show. Packed with numerous upgrades compared to the standard version, this exceptional vehicle recently took on the breathtaking Oberalp Pass in Switzerland, and lucky for us, it was captured on video.

Even though it is a public road, the driver displayed impressive control throughout the ascent. However, the true highlight of the footage is the awe-inspiring sound of the engine. Bugatti decided not to enhance the powertrain compared to the standard Chiron, but rather focused on improving other aspects of the vehicle. This includes a new dynamic handling package, a revamped suspension, and stiffer shock absorbers – all of which are essential for conquering this kind of challenging road.


Featured

Kia Seltos Facelift Reaches Dealerships Ahead Of Launch


The Kia Seltos facelift clicked at the dealership was the GT Line variant finished in the new ‘Pewter Olive’ paint option

Kia Seltos facelift

  • #1 – Bookings for the Seltos facelift will begin from July 14.
  • #2 – Kia will offer the SUV in three variant lines: Tech (HT) Line, GT Line, and X-Line.
  • #3 – The SUV pictured had LED lighting, 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, and ‘GT Line’ badge.
  • #4 – Its interior features include new integrated displays, dual-zone AC, and electronic parking brake.
  • #5 – Additional features on offer on the GTX+ variant include a panoramic sunroof and ADAS.
  • #6 – The new Seltos comes with three 1.5-liter engines, each with its own automatic transmission.
  • #7 – The launch is likely to happen soon, and prices could start from Rs 11 lakh (ex-showroom).

The Kia Seltos facelift was recently unveiled in India as the first significant update for the compact SUV in nearly four years. Kia will be offering it in three broad variant lines: Tech (HT) Line, GT Line, and X-Line. Bookings for the refreshed Seltos will open from July 14. Images of the facelifted Seltos arriving at dealerships are now available for customers to see before the official launch.

Details Of The Model Pictured

In the images, the SUV is seen finished in the new ‘Pewter Olive’ paint option. It is the higher-spec GTX+ variant indicated by the ‘GT Line’ badge on the tailgate. The SUV features LED fog lamps, grille with honeycomb pattern, LED headlights with DRLs, dynamic turn indicators, 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, and connected LED taillights.

The Interior Bits

Kia Seltos facelift cabin

The interior of the GTX+ variant includes two 10.25-inch displays (one for instrumentation and the other for infotainment), dual-zone climate control, ventilated front seats, and an electronic parking brake with auto-hold function. Additional features on the GTX+ variant include a panoramic sunroof, wireless phone charging, an 8-way powered driver seat, rain-sensing wipers, and an 8-speaker Bose sound system.

Related: Kia Seltos Facelift’s Variant-wise Features Revealed

More Safety Tech On Offer

The facelifted Seltos comes with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, high-beam assist, and driver attentiveness alert. It also retains safety features like six airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), ISOFIX child seat anchorages, 360-degree camera, and front and rear parking sensors.

Choice Of Petrol And Diesel Engines

Kia Seltos facelift ADAS radar

The 2023 Seltos offers both petrol and diesel powertrains. It remains one of the few compact SUVs, along with the Hyundai Creta, to offer the option of a diesel engine. The engine-gearbox combinations are as follows:

Specification

1.5-litre Petrol

1.5-litre Turbo-petrol

1.5-litre Diesel

Power

115PS

160PS

116PS

Torque

144Nm

253Nm

250Nm

Transmission

6-speed MT, CVT

6-speed iMT, 7-speed DCT

6-speed iMT, 6-speed AT

Also See: Take A Closer Look At The Facelifted Kia Seltos In These 15 Images

Launch Update And Competition

Kia Seltos facelift rear

Kia is expected to launch the facelifted Seltos soon, with prices starting from around Rs 11 lakh (ex-showroom). In addition to the Hyundai Creta, the refreshed SUV will compete with the Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Maruti Grand Vitara, MG Astor, Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun, and the upcoming Citroen C3 Aircross and Honda Elevate.

Read More on : Kia Seltos diesel

News

Lotus Emira with Four-Cylinder Engine to Debut at Goodwood

Lotus has confirmed that the entry-level variant of the Lotus Emira will be unveiled at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. This model will feature a turbocharged M139 engine sourced from Mercedes-AMG, which is known as the world’s most powerful four-cylinder engine. The same engine is used in other AMG models such as the A45, C63 S E Performance, and SL 43.

However, the engine has undergone “fundamental changes” for the Emira, including a new intake and exhaust system. This results in a slight reduction in power output, with the Emira producing 360bhp and 317lb ft of torque compared to the 382bhp and 354lb ft found in the entry-level AMG cars.

The Emira with the AMG engine will come equipped with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox as standard. In the First Edition trim, it will be priced at £77,795, making it £4200 cheaper than the version fitted with the supercharged Toyota V6 engine.

The Toyota V6 engine, previously used in the Lotus Evora and Lotus Exige, produces 400bhp and 310lb ft of torque. The notable difference is that it can be paired with a manual gearbox, which the AMG engine does not offer.

Deliveries of the four-cylinder Emira are expected to start in autumn, with a more affordable trim level set to be released before the end of the year. However, it is worth noting that the actual cost of this trim level is expected to exceed its originally pitched price of £59,995.

The Emira will mark Lotus’s final combustion-engined series-production sports car, as the brand plans to transition to battery-electric powertrains for all its new models. Lotus will be working closely with Geely, its parent company, to introduce a range of electric vehicles in the coming years. This includes a saloon based on the Eletre in 2024 and a high-volume rival to the Porsche Macan EV by 2028, aiming for around 75,000 sales annually.

While the new electric models will be engineered at Lotus’s factory in Wuhan, China, the production of pure sports cars like the Emira, Evora, and Elise will continue to take place in Hethel, Norfolk.

Featured

Introducing the Maruti Invicto Zeta+ Variant


The Zeta+ variant of the Maruti Invicto comes with premium features and offers both 7-seater and 8-seater options

Maruti Invicto Zeta+

The Maruti Invicto, which is the flagship model of the carmaker, is now available for sale. This premium MPV is essentially a rebadged version of the Toyota Innova Hycross and is priced between Rs 24.79 lakh and Rs 28.42 lakh (ex-showroom).

Dealerships have started receiving the Invicto, allowing prospective buyers to experience it firsthand. If you’re considering the entry-level Zeta+ variant, here’s a closer look at its exterior and interior.

Maruti Invicto Zeta+

The Invicto Zeta+ shares a striking resemblance to the top-spec Alpha+ variant, with only minor variations. The front fascia features a wide Nexa grille with chrome finishing, full LED headlamps, and sleek LED turn indicators on the bumper.

Maruti Invicto Zeta+

The differences can be observed on the side profile. The Zeta+ variant comes with body-colored door handles, while the Alpha+ variant has chrome detailing. Additionally, the cladding on the Zeta+ is in body color whereas it is black painted on the top-end variant. Both variants feature 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels.

Maruti Invicto Zeta+

At the rear, you can spot the Nexa-styled LED tail light design, a roof spoiler, a chrome bar connecting the tail lamps, and the ‘Hybrid’ badging. The rear profile remains unchanged compared to the Alpha+ trim.

Also Read: Maruti Invicto Waiting Period Less Than Toyota Innova Hycross In These 4 Cities!

Maruti Invicto Zeta+

Inside the cabin, the layout of the Zeta+ variant is identical to the Alpha+ variant. It features an all-black interior with champagne gold accents and soft-touch finishing on the dashboard. However, the Zeta+ variant has a smaller 8-inch touchscreen system instead of the larger 10-inch unit.

Maruti Invicto Zeta+

In terms of features, the Invicto Zeta+ offers tilt and telescopic steering adjust, paddle shifters, cruise control, keyless entry, and push-button start-stop. While the top-end variant has dual-zone AC, the Zeta+ variant provides the convenience of automatic AC. Features like a panoramic sunroof, leatherette seat upholstery, electrically adjustable driver’s seat with memory setting, and ventilated front seats are reserved for the Alpha+ variant.

Maruti Invicto Zeta+

Safety features include six airbags, electronic parking brake with auto-hold function, electronic stability assist, and a rear parking camera. Advanced features like a 360-degree camera and front and rear parking sensors are available only in the top-spec variant.

Maruti Invicto Zeta+

The 7-seater version of the Invicto Zeta+ comes with captain seats and armrests for the second row. Only this variant offers the choice between 7-seater and 8-seater configurations. The top-end Alpha+ variant is limited to seven seats.

Maruti Invicto Zeta+

Powering the Invicto is a 2-liter strong-hybrid petrol engine, generating 186PS and 206Nm of torque. It offers three drive modes – Eco, Normal, and Sport – along with an exclusive ‘EV Mode’. The hybrid powertrain enables the Invicto to achieve a fuel efficiency of up to 23.24kmpl.

Maruti Invicto Zeta+

Also Read: 5 Key Differences Between The Maruti Invicto And Toyota Innova Hycross

The Maruti Invicto competes with rivals like the Toyota Innova Hycross, Kia Carens, Toyota Innova Crysta, and Mahindra Marazzo.

Read More on : Invicto Automatic

News

New cars 2023: what’s coming and when


Cars arriving in November 2023

Aston Martin DBS 770 Ultimate

The Aston Martin DBS 770 Ultimate is a hardcore variant of the brutish GT. It features a power increase to rival the Ferrari 812 Competizione. The two-door coupé is powered by a 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine, producing 759bhp. Only 499 units will be produced.

Bentley Batur

The Bentley Batur is a limited-run model that signifies the end of Bentley’s famous 6.0-litre W12 engine. It is a large, two-door coupé based on the Bentley Continental GT with a longer wheelbase. The Batur features a swansong W12 engine that produces over 730bhp and 740lb ft of torque. It is considered to be Bentley’s most powerful engine ever. The Batur is expected to be seen on the streets in the middle of 2023.

BMW 5 Series

The BMW 5 Series will offer multiple powertrain options in a single bodyshell. It will be available in petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid, and electric variants. The combustion models will incorporate some form of electrical assistance to meet emission standards. The plug-in hybrid options are expected to have larger batteries for longer electric ranges. The electric variant, known as the i5, will provide a conventional alternative to competitors like the Mercedes EQE and Tesla Model S. It will prioritize dynamic performance with a smaller, lighter battery and will support rapid charging capabilities of 210kW.

Czinger 21C

The Czinger 21C is a hypercar from US start-up Czinger. It features a 1223bhp electrified V8 engine and can accelerate from 0-62mph in just 1.9 seconds. The 21C is almost 2.2 seconds quicker than a McLaren Senna around Laguna Seca. Czinger’s 3D-printing car chassis technique, first introduced in 2015, will be utilized in the production of the 21C.

Ford E-Tourneo Custom

The Ford E-Tourneo Custom is an electric version of the UK’s best-selling vehicle of 2021. It is equipped with a 74kWh battery that offers a range of 230 miles. The E-Tourneo Custom shares the same 215bhp motor as the panel-sided E-Transit Custom but offers additional lifestyle features such as movable, reversible seats and a car-like cockpit area. It presents a viable alternative to the VW ID Buzz.

Motorsport

BMW i5 Touring Wagon Spotted Without Camouflage, Revealing Front-End Design

The BMW 5 Series Touring wagon is on its way, and the automaker has already given us a glimpse of the M5 version. Spy shots have also shown the electric i5 being tested. The most recent photos reveal the uncovered front of the long-roofed EV, although the back is still concealed.

It’s not surprising that there is no camouflage on the front, as the automaker had previously shown us the 5 Series and i5 sedan earlier this year, and both models share the same front-end styling. However, they do have different grilles, which might be an attempt by BMW to hide certain details, such as the M badges on the front fenders. Nice try.


Featured

Tata Nexon: India’s #1 Best Selling SUV For Two Years In A Row!


Multitude of powertrain and variant options fueling its growth

Tata Nexon

In a remarkable achievement, the Tata Nexon has successfully maintained its position as the leading SUV in terms of sales for the second consecutive year. During FY 2022-2023, the esteemed Indian car manufacturer sold an impressive 1,72,138 units of this compact SUV. It comes as no surprise that the Nexon has become the most sought-after SUV in India, surpassing competitors like the Hyundai Creta and Maruti Suzuki Brezza.

Tata Nexon

The Tata Nexon has experienced impressive sales growth, reflecting its increasing popularity. In FY 2021-2022, the Nexon recorded sales of 1,24,130 units. Fast forward to FY 2022-2023, and the numbers soared, showing a remarkable growth rate of over 39 percent. On average, the Nexon sold an impressive 14,344 units per month during this period. The highlight of its sales performance was November 2022, where it achieved its highest-ever monthly sales of 15,081 units.

A major factor contributing to the widespread admiration for the Tata Nexon is its wide range of variants, offering customers an extensive selection. With a diverse range of diesel and petrol trims, the Nexon caters to the preferences of automotive enthusiasts.

Also Check Out: Tata Nexon Reaches 5 Lakh Families In India

Tata Nexon

For those who seek high performance, the Nexon offers a powerful 1.2-liter turbocharged petrol engine that delivers an impressive 120 PS. Additionally, the 1.5-liter engine boasts an admirable 110 PS. These engines are paired with a refined 6-speed manual gearbox or a smooth 6-speed AMT, providing options for individual preferences.

In addition, the Tata Nexon is renowned for its 5-star safety rating. This plays a significant role as today’s customers prioritize a car’s safety rating and other safety features.

Tata Nexon Interior

Finally, the Tata Nexon offers an extensive range of premium features that entice buyers. These include a sunroof, ventilated front seats, rain-sensing wipers, cruise control, and a tire pressure monitoring system, among others. Customers also benefit from auto headlights and a 10.25-inch infotainment unit that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Thanks to its premium positioning in the compact SUV segment, the Tata Nexon has become a well-known name in Indian households.

The Nexon stands out in the market by offering features like a sunroof and touchscreen at a price below Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom). The SUV’s price range starts from Rs. 7,79,900 and goes up to Rs. 14,49,900.

Read More on : Tata Nexon AMT

Motorsport

Mercedes-AMG G63 Grand Edition Limited To 1,000 Units, Gets Gold Accents

Mercedes has released a new version of the AMG G63 called the Grand Edition. The company will only produce 1,000 units of this high-performance SUV, which features various visual enhancements both inside and out, with gold accents adding a touch of luxury.

The special Grand Edition of the AMG G63 stands out with its unique Manufaktur night black mango paint, which contrasts beautifully with the gold elements. The front and rear bumper inlays, front underbody protection plate, spare wheel ring, and spare wheel star emblem are all adorned with gold accents.


News

New 2023 BMW X1 M35i: A Powerful Performance Upgrade

The new BMW X1 now has a performance variant called the M35i, which aims to rival the Mercedes-AMG GLA 35. This upgraded model features various chassis and engine enhancements.

Under the hood, the X1 M35i is equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol engine, similar to the ones found in the BMW 2 Series Coupé, Morgan Plus Four, and Toyota GR Supra. With upgrades, this engine now produces 296 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 5.4 seconds, slightly slower than the GLA 35 by 0.2 seconds.

All-wheel drive is standard on the X1 M35i, and power is transmitted through a seven-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox. Improved traction is achieved with the addition of a mechanical limited-slip differential at the front end.

For enhanced handling, the M35i comes with adaptive suspension as standard, lowering the ride height by 15mm compared to regular X1 models. The stability control and traction control systems have also been revised, allowing for faster corrective inputs.

On the outside, the M35i features a more aggressive bodykit with larger air dams at the front, along with a prominent rear spoiler and a quad-exhaust-pipe arrangement.

The interior of the M35i receives sportier seats with increased bolstering. Optional M Sport buckets are available as well. The steering wheel is adorned with M Sport stitching, while the rest of the interior remains similar to the standard X1.

The price for the X1 M35i in the UK starts at £45,995, which is £7,125 less than the GLA 35 but nearly £6,000 more than the outgoing Mini Countryman JCW. European customers can expect deliveries to begin in November.

BMW X1 M35i 2023 interior

News

New 2023 BMW X1 M35i brings 296bhp for £45,995

The M performance variant of the new BMW X1 has arrived, bringing a range of chassis and engine tweaks aimed at usurping the Mercedes-AMG GLA 35.

Called the X1 M35i, it’s powered by an upgraded version of the turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine featured in the BMW 2 Series Coupé, Morgan Plus Four and Toyota GR Supra, among others. In the M35i, its power and torque outputs peak at 296bhp and 295lb ft, allowing the crossover to complete the 0-62mph sprint in 5.4sec – 0.2sec behind the GLA 35.

Power is delivered to all four wheels through a seven-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox, with a mechanical limited-slip differential improving traction at the front end.

As for chassis tweaks, adaptive suspension is fitted as standard to the M35i, which sits 15mm lower than conventional variants of the X1. The stability control and traction control systems have also been revised to reduce the length of their physical connections, allowing them to provide corrective inputs up to 10 times faster than before.

New 19in alloy wheels are fitted as standard, reducing unsprung weight and providing enough room for optional M Compound brakes. These discs – 385mm drilled units up front and regular 335mm items at the rear – are made from cast iron and aluminium and are claimed by BMW to improve stopping power while further reducing unsprung weight.

BMW X1 M35i 2023 interior

To further distinguish the M35i from regular X1s visually, it receives a more aggressive bodykit with larger air dams at the front. At the rear is a more prominent spoiler and quad-exhaust-pipe arrangement.

Inside, the M35i gains a pair of more aggressively bolstered sports seats, but buyers can also specify the optional M Sport buckets pictured here. An M Sport leather stitched steering wheel is standard, but the rest of the interior largely mirrors the regular X1.

Prices start from £45,995 in the UK – £7125 less than the GLA 35 but nearly £6000 more than the outgoing Mini Countryman JCW. European deliveries begin in November.