3 Series Gran Limousine Bookings to begin from January 11 #3Series

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January 8, 2021

While rumours were quite high in regards to the announcement of the booking dates for the BMW 3 series Gran Limousine, they can now lay at rest, since BMW announced the Booking dates on Thursday.

As reported by certain sites earlier, BMW is all set to launch the 3 Gran Limousine, which will be an exclusive car for India on January 21. On Thursday, BMW India announced that its dealers all across the country will start accepting bookings of the 3 GL on January 11 with the booking amount set to be that of Rs 50,000. The auto maker has, additionally announced an early bird offer which comprises of a complimentary Comfort Package comprising of an iPad, an iPad holder and a coat hanger for the rear seat.

The 3 Series Gran Limousine, is a car that is primarily targeted at those looking for a more spacious alternative on the 3 Series platform. When compared to the standard car, the 3 GL sits on a 110mm longer wheelbase which allows for 43mm of additional leg room towards the rear. As is expected, the 3 Series Gran Limousine will wear the 330Li/320Ld badges and sit on the standard wheelbase 3 Series sedan.

As for the pricing, we expect a price range of Rs 45-52 lakh (ex-showroom, India), which will make it very competitive against the likes of the new Audi A4 and the soon to be launched Volvo V60 (2021).

Are you excited for the new 3 GL? Let us know in the comments below.

Also Read: Jaguar I-Pace Arrives in Mumbai, India Launch Imminent

Jaguar I-Pace Hits Indian Shores, India Launch Soon #I-PaceEV

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January 7, 2021

Jaguar is gearing up for the launch of its first fully-electric car in India as part of it’s 2021 portfolio. Now, the company has announced that the I-Pace has finally hit the Indian shores. The company, to garner some excitement shared a few pictures of the car that has landed in India at JNPT near Mumbai, for extensive testing. For context, the upcoming EV will supposedly be offered in three trim levels – S, SE and HSE and will be seen in a single powertrain option.

Commenting on the same, Rohit Suri, President & Managing Director, Jaguar Land Rover India was quite ecstatic to say, “We are delighted to share with you pictures of the first Jaguar I-PACE in India. The I-PACE marks a significant milestone in Jaguar Land Rover’s journey in India, as we gear up for an electrified future.”

In terms of the specifications, the car comes with a sloping bonnet, sleek-looking LED headlamps, a honeycomb-style grille as well as a wider central air-dam. It also features an attractive set of alloys and ORVMs with turn lights. As for the dimensions, the electric SUV measures 4682 mm in length, 2011mm in width and 1566 mm in height. The wheelbase and ground clearance are 2990 mm and 174 mm respectively.

In terms of the engine, the car gets two synchronous permanent magnet electric motors at the front as well as a rear axle developing a combined power output of 394 bhp with peak torque of 696 Nm. It also features an AWD system. The SUV can go from 0 to 100 kmph in just 4.8 seconds and it offers a driving range of over 480 km. As for the charging, the 90kWh lithium-ion battery pack takes 45 minutes to charge from 0-80 per cent using a 100kW rapid charger, or 10 hours using a 7kW AC wall box.

The car will be offered in 12 colours – Fuji White, Caldera Red, Santorini Black, Yulong White, Indus Silver, Firenze Red, Caesium Blue, Borasco Grey, Eiger Grey, Portofino Blue, Farallon Pearl Black, and Aruba.

Are you excited for the new I-Pace? Let us know in the comments below.

Also Read: Aston Martin announces new title partner

Aston Martin Announces Return to F1, with Cognizant as Title Partner #AstonMartinCognizant

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News Desk

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January 7, 2021

With anticipation rising for almost 12 months, Aston Martin today announced that it is back in Formula One and, the team’s title sponsor is set to be Cognizant. According to the brand, a new Era has begun.

In their press release, the company states that they are quite excited to reveal the first look of their new and refreshed identity and, then moves on to talk about how they have a new title partner. This partner is Cognizant, an American multinational IT brand with plans full of ambition.

This team is being dubbed as the Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One™ Team. This will be the name it sports when it lines up on the starting grid for the new season.

The team also talks about the key role that Cognizant plays, as not only a sponsor but that of a true digital transformation partner that will serve a real purpose. The multi-year association brings real energy to the new era of Aston Martin in Formula One with Cognizant ideally placed to empower the team with the best IT infrastructure and software solutions on the market, said Aston Martin.

In March, the team will be unveiling their car livery to the world at Aston Martin’s global HQ in Gaydon, including the introduction of their driver line-up, featuring four-time World Champion Sebastian Vettel and multiple Grand Prix podium finisher Lance Stroll.

“We’re just two months away from the start of the season, so it’s fantastic to celebrate the new era of Aston Martin in Formula One by welcoming Cognizant as our title partner. Innovation and technology are central pillars for any Formula One team and this long-term partnership is more than just a branding exercise. With a new factory already under construction, Cognizant’s expertise and resources will add value in all areas of our IT operations and make a valuable contribution to our performance on-track.” said Otmar Szafnauer, CEO & Team Principal, Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One™ Team.

Sebastian Vettel, Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One™ Team said: I can’t wait to start working with Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One™ Team. There’s so much for me to discover over the next few months and I’m incredibly determined to help make this team even more successful. Before we know it, we will be at the first race, seeing this famous name back where it belongs. I’m proud to be part of this journey.”

To add to this Lance Stroll, Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One™ Team commented:“Seeing Aston Martin back in Formula One is a huge deal – especially with a new title partner, Cognizant. Whenever I’m at the factory, you can feel the buzz and energy. We’re ready for this. There’s so much hunger in the team and I just can’t wait to get the season started.”

Are you excited for Aston Martin’s return? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

Also Read: Bravio to Leave Suzuki and Join Alpine

Brivio To Exit Suzuki,Paving the way for Apine F1 Shift #MotoGP

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January 7, 2021

It seems the world of Moto GP is about to witness a major change, as, Suzuki recently announced that Brivio is leaving the team in favour of a move to Alpine. Autosport on Wednesday, in an exclusive article, revealed that Brivio is to make a surprise move to Alpine to become its CEO as part of a management restructure.

While Alpine’s parent company Renault has so far declined to comment in regards to this situation, Suzuki announced on Thursday morning Brivio was leaving MotoGP. For those unaware, Brivio aided Suzuki for a long time and led Suzuki to its first MotoGP world titles in two decades, in 2020, with the Japanese manufacturer winning the title and Joan Mir the riders’ crown.

Commenting on this situation, Brivio states: “A new professional challenge and opportunity suddenly came to me and in the end,I decided to take it,” he said. “It has been a difficult decision.”The hardest part will be to leave this fabulous group of people, whom I started this project with when Suzuki rejoined the championship.

“And it’s hard to say goodbye also to all the people who have arrived over the years to create this great team. “I feel sad from this point of view, but at the same time I feel a lot of motivation for this new challenge – which was the key when I had to decide between renewing my contract with Suzuki or starting a completely new experience.”

Brivio is going to become the CEO of Alpine, with his primary job being that of working alongside team principal Marcin Budkowski, albeit, keep it mind, this has not been announced. Suzuki have a lot to do to fill this gaping hole, but, Brivio commenting on the same, hoped that the team achieve more success. He stated: “Achieving a MotoGP title is something that will remain in the Suzuki history books and it will always have a special place in my life memories,”

“Suzuki MotoGP, I hope that the results in the future will be better and better and I will always be a Suzuki fan. Thanks very much Suzuki.”

Are you upset about this sudden announcement? Let us know in the comments below.

Also Read: MG Hector and Hector Plus Launched

MG Hector and Hector Plus Launched in India, Prices start from Rs 12.89 lakhs #MGHector

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January 7, 2021

The MG Hector facelift and the updated Hector Plus were launched today in India, with prices starting at Rs 12.89 lakh and Rs 13.35 lakh, respectively (ex-showroom, India). The facelift for the cars get some cosmetic updates and upgrades to the tech, with the aim of refreshing both models. The Hector Plus now comes in two variants, of 6-seats and 7-seat configs.

Beginning with the design, the MG Hector and Hector Plus get minor changes when compared to the outgoing models. The grille gets a revised finish and towards the rear, the reflector strip running between the tail-lamps has been replaced by a black appliqué.

Both SUVs now sit on larger 18-inch alloy wheels and get new front as well as rear scuff plates. A new Starry Blue exterior colour option is also now available on the Hector, which looks pretty good if you ask me.

As for the interior, notable changes to the 2021 Hector is the fact that the current all-black cabin makes way for lighter champagne and black dual-tone one. The lighter colours help lift cabin ambience and also help enhance the spacious feeling that one wants from a larger car.

Towards the equipment side of things, the update brings with it a few big additions. The 6-seat Hector Plus and the 5-seat Hector get ventilated front seats, along with wireless phone charging and an auto-dimming inside rearview mirror. Another update bound to draw attention is the voice assistant, with support for voice recognition of over 31 languages.

Similar to the previous generation, the fully-loaded models continue to get features such as the 10.4-inch touchscreen, connected tech, auto climate control, powered front side seats, 360-degree camera, a powered tailgate, panoramic sunroof etc.

Coming to the engines, both cars retain the choice of engines on the older models. One can choose between a pair of 143hp, 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engines, one equipped with mild-hybrid tech and a 170hp, 2.0-litre diesel engine. A 6-speed manual gearbox is standard across all engine options with the non-hybrid turbo-petrol also offered with a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox option.

What are your thoughts regarding the new MG Hector? Let us know in the comments below.

Also Read: Mini Cooper Paddy Hopkirk launched

Mini Launches Limited Paddy Hopkirk Edition, Priced at Rs 41.70 lakhs #PaddyHopkirk

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January 7, 2021

Mini Cooper India on Thursday officially launched its three-door hatchback, called MINI Paddy Hopkirk Edition at ₹41.70 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). Imported fully built from external markets, only 15 of these rare, limited edition cars will be sold in India.

The car, which is a special edition, pays homage to rally driver Patrick “Paddy” Hopkirk who raced his Mini Cooper S to victory at Monte Carlo Rally back in 1964. This defined MINI’s racing legacy and the latest car is a tribute to both man and machine.Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said:”The MINI Paddy Hopkirk Edition is a reflection of MINI’s challenger spirit and racing genes. It is a celebration of the ultimate MINI challenger moment – Paddy Hopkirk’s first Monte Carlo Rally victory in the classic Mini Cooper S,”

Some Features exclusive to the MINI Paddy Hopkirk Edition include the iconic No. 37 Sticker in white on both sides and No. 37 badging on Side Scuttles as well as the Keycap. Paddy’s signature appears on the illuminated Door Sills, the C-pillars and on the Cockpit along with a rear sticker in matte black.

A single Bonnet Stripe in white with Paddy Hopkirk’s signature and 33EJB badging of number plate adds to the look and enhances the special edition’s exclusivity. The MINI Paddy Hopkirk Edition also includes a Panorama Glass Roof, Rear View Camera, and a John Cooper Works Sport Leather Steering Wheel.

Paddy Hopkirk gets into the car named in his honour, the MINI Cooper Paddy Hopkirk edition.

In terms of the engine, the car has a two-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with TwinPower Turbo Technology. There’s 192 hp of max power and a gorgeous 280 Nm of torque. This allows the car to speed to 100 kmph in 6.7 seconds with the top speed limited to 235 kmph. For the transmission, a seven-speed Steptronic Sport unit with double clutch is used.

The car also comes with drive modes – standard, sport and a green mode for enhanced fuel efficiency. The standard safety equipment features Front and Passenger Airbags, Brake Assist, 3-Point Seat Belts, Dynamic Stability Control, Crash Sensor, ABS, Cornering Brake Control and a Run-flat Indicator.

To add to all this, A MINI Excitement Package can be availed additionally which packs in LED interior and ambient lights and MINI logo puddle lamps, for those who wish for some special additions.

What are your thoughts regarding this special edition? Are you excited for the same? Let us know in the comments below.

Also Read: Jeep Compass Facelift Announced

Jeep Compass Facelift Announced in India. #JeepFacelift

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News Desk

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January 7, 2021

Jeep India today launched the Facelifted version of the Jeep Compass, which is a hot seller for the company. With the Covid-19 scenario in place, the event was hosted virtually. Jeep’s most affordable SUV finally got a much-needed update today and hence, this launch was a highly awaited one.

“The past three years have been a process of great listening and learning from the customers,” said Partha Dutta, during the launch event.

In terms of the design, the 2021 Jeep Compass facelift features revised headlamps with new reflectors and LED daytime running lights. This gives the car a very brawny and aggressive look. The DRLs provide a sense of presence, especially in dimly-lit conditions. Both bumpers, front and rear have been revised as well and the car also gets a wider honeycomb mesh air dam upfront giving it an even more butcher feel.

In terms of some major features, the new Jeep Compass facelift gets over 50 safety and security features, which include 6 airbags, ESP, Electronic Roll Mitigation, Hill hold and Hill descent control, amongst other such useful tools. There is also a 360-degree Camera System that is quite useful in tight situations.

The dashboard layout has been redesigned to offer a wider appearance, which is a good thing. There’s also the new floating touchscreen infotainment system that’s considerably larger now. The switches in the dash are brand new and look rather premium. Storage space too has been increased and wireless charging is also supported.

The new Jeep Compass gets a 10.25-inch digital instrument console with the new UConnect 5 user-interface that brings better hardware and software on the car. Some of the major features that it has includes support for OTA updates, Android OS, customisation of up to 5 pages and 5 times better speed in comparison to the older variant.

The new instrument console on the 2021 Jeep Compass facelift gets a 3D look that offers a host of information and is full of information. The car also comes with connected car features including a voice assistant and a dedicated smartphone application.

Both the BS6 compliant powertrains will be 1.4-litre Multi-air petrol and 2.0-litre Multi-jet diesel unit, which means the engines are same and there are no mechanical changes.

The new Jeep Compass will continue to rival the likes of the Volkswagen T-Roc, Skoda Karoq, 2020 Tata Harrier and the MG Hector Facelift that’s going on sale today.

Are you excited about the new Compass? If so, let us know in the comments below.

Also Read: Citroen to launch C5AirCross on 1st Feb

C5 AirCross, Citroen’s Debut Vehicle for India to be unveiled on February 1. #Citroen2021

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News Desk

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January 7, 2021

The French carmaker Citroen is gearing up to enter the Indian market with the launch of the Citroen C5 AirCross in India. The company announced that the car will be unveiled in India on February 1, 2021, which would mark the company’s entry into the Indian market.

For some context, Citroen had begun a trial assembly of a few units of the C5 Aircross at the CK Birla manufacturing facility in Tamil Nadu back in 2020, with these cars set to play the roles of test mules for the company.

The C5 Aircross will be sold in a single variant and is expected to feature an electronic parking brake, dual-zone climate control, split-LED lamps with DRLs, a powered tailgate and a panoramic sunroof. To add to these set of features, the car will also have an 8-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster for the driver to check the car’s fluid and speed.

These cars will be sold via Citroen’s La Maison Citroen showrooms, with the carmaker planning introduction of around 15 outlets during the first phase of sales.

The company is keeping it’s expectations in check and does not expect large sales, rather, it is betting on it’s future made-in-India cars from it’s ‘C-cubed’ programme, which according to the auto maker will be a large volume seller. These increased levels of localisation could result in a highly competitive price point for the models from the range.

This debut offering in India will come with a 2.0-litre diesel engine producing 180hp and will be coupled with an 8-speed torque converter automatic gearbox.

What are your thoughts about this latest update? Are you excited about the same? Let us know in the comments below.

Also Read: MG Hector to launch in India today.

MG’s Hector to get a Facelift Later Today, Here’s What we know so far. #HectorFacelift

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News Desk

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January 7, 2021

Ever since the MG Hector arrived in India a year and a half ago, the car has been quite popular in the market and the news, not always however for the right reasons. Later today, the MG Hector SUV is due to receive a facelift, which is much needed.

The compact SUV has been vital to the company’s Indian campaign and with this update, the British automaker will be hoping to keep this ball rolling instead of losing market share and sales in the face of growing competition.

In terms of the new Hector, in its 2021 variant, the car will come sporting some cosmetic changes, while there will be no mechanical updates towards the car. Now we still have a few hours to go, so we figured we will discuss our guess for the 2021 MG Hector’s price.

Based on the spy shots, the upcoming SUV will get a new grille, seemingly inspired by the MG ZS EV. Other changes will include new five-spoke alloy wheels. Besides this, the car’s exterior design will remain largely unchanged. Inside, the overall layout as well as most of the list of features will be retained from the existing model. This, therefore means that the new Hector will continue to get features such as a panoramic sunroof, 10.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, rear AC vents and more.

As we said earlier, there are no mechanical updates, which means it will continue to make use of the older model’s engine options, a choice between a 1.5-litre petrol engine, a 1.5-litre hybrid, and a 2.0-litre diesel engine.

In terms of the expected pricing, we feel the car might be priced at around Rs 13.2-13.4 lakhs in India (Ex-Showroom, Delhi)

Are you excited about the new Hector, if so, let us know in the comments.

Also Read: Bentley posts record sales in 2020

Bentley Announces Record Sales Despite Global Pandemic #Bentley

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News Desk

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January 7, 2021

The Covid-19 pandemic resulted in a lot of downtime for most sectors, including that of the auto industry. During a certain period of time, sales were down to zero and, when the situation improved, people were still rather sceptical on spending money on cars and luxury SUVs such as that of Bentley or Rolls Royce.

Oddly, however, amidst this global pandemic, Bentley, a luxury automotive brand, recorded it’s best year, in terms of sales, with 11,206 deliveries in 2020.

This is no less than a notable achievement, especially for an automaker who, just 25 years ago was making a few hundred cars per year, with most of their designs being shared with Rolls-Royce. Today, the difference between these two are quite evident. This comes after a seven-week shutdown during spring and nine weeks of running at 50% capacity.

“Even though we anticipated greater sales before the pandemic struck, when you consider the level of restrictions around the world for the majority of the year, to achieve a record sales performance is a strong measure of our potential,” said Adrian Hallmark, chairman and CEO of Bentley Motors.

“As we look to the year ahead we remain cautiously optimistic as much remains uncertain. One thing that doesn’t is our commitment to progress, the first step of which is the launch of the Bentayga Hybrid. This is one of nine new models we will launch this year as we continue on our Beyond100 strategic path and our accelerated journey towards becoming a fully electrified car company by 2030.”

The credit for these sales includes the introduction of new models such as the redesigned Flying Spur, as well as higher demand in China. The Bentley Continental GT was a strong seller, with 24% of all orders and, the GT Convertible adding another 15% of sales. Oddly, however, the best seller of the lot was the Bentayga, which accounted for 37% of all sales in 2020.

Do you think Bentley can top these numbers in 2021? Let us know in the comments.

Also Read: Kawasaki launches Kervys 2021