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Car India - September 2023

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DRIVEN: Mercedes-Benz E-Class O Wiesmann Thunderball O Rolls-Royce Black Badge Cullinan ` 180.

00

www.carindia.in
CELEBRATION DRIVE
60 YEARS OF LAMBORGHINI

C40
Volume 19 / Issue 02 / September 2023

RECHARGE
Volvo fuse
coupé style
and SUV
function

COMPARO: PORSCHE 911 GT3 RS FIRST DRIVE:


v CHEVROLET CORVETTE ZO6 TATA NEXON PETROL, DIESEL & EV

PUBLISHING

Final Cover CI Sept 23.indd 1 14-Sep-23 12:38:15 PM


CONTENTS
This Month’s Stories
at a Glance

76CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 v


PORSCHE 911 GT3 RS
America’s iconic sports car name goes mid-
engined so it just had to be pit against the
absolute global benchmark, right?

4 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


`

@carindia /carindia /carindiamagazine /carindia_mag carindia@nextgenpublishing.net


/

C40
Volume 19 I Issue 2 I September 2023

REGULARS
6 WELCOME
8 BULLETIN
21 NEW PRODUCTS
24 INBOX
25 SALES FIGURES
91 CI GARAGE
92 THE GBU

FEATURES
20 BHARAT NCAP
Our very own new car assessment program
46
22 KIA SELTOS 2.0
Does the new Seltos raise the game again?

26 HYUNDAI TRAVELOGUE
The new Verna heads to a destination wedding in Vizag

32 VALVOLINE #SWITCHTOSYNTHETIC
Valvoline All Climate puts synthetic oil in easy reach

34 LAMBORGHINI ANNIVERSARY DRIVES


Driving iconic Lambos at their home in Sant’Agata

42 IAA MUNICH
All the stars from the international show in Munich

FIRST DRIVES
46 VOLVO C40 RECHARGE
The first-ever C40 that’s born electric as a coupé SUV 52
52 MERCEDES-BENZ E-CLASS
The all-new E driven in its promising PHEV guise

56 TATA NEXON
The popular homegrown compact SUV is revitalised

62 ROLLS-ROYCE BLACK BADGE CULLINAN


Exclusive über-performance go-anywhere high Roller

66 TATA NEXON.EV
The star of India’s electric segment gets updated

72 WIESMANN THUNDERBALL
Bespoke German roadster goes electric

SPORT
88 F1: THE NETHERLANDS & ITALY

90 WRC: GREECE
66

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 5


WELCOME Car India Magazine
S. No. 261/G.L.R. No. 5,
East Street, Camp, Pune 411001. INDIA
carindia@nextgenpublishing.net

Editor Aspi Bhathena


Deputy Editor Jim Gorde
Copy Editor Deepak Upadhye
Senior Correspondents Joshua Varghese, Azaman Chothia
Correspondent Alshin Thomas

Much Room for Improvement Art Director Ramnath Chodankar


Head Design & Production Ravi Parmar
Designer Sandeep Naik
Senior Photographer Sanjay Raikar
IN INDIA WE PAY ONE OF THE HIGHEST FASTag being issued for the same car. Staff Photographer Apurva Ambep
road taxes on cars in the world. If that is Production Supervisor Dinesh Bhajnik
The government has recovered more Administration Executive Francis Daniel
not enough, the government charges toll
that cent per cent of the cost, yet it keeps
on our highways. The FASTag system is PUBLISHER Marzban Jasoomani
increasing the toll. Now, with the new ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER &
another pain. More often than not the
tunnel coming up, we will have to pay toll GENERAL MANAGER (NORTH & EAST)
sensors at toll booths fail to read FASTag. Ellora Dasgupta - Tel: +91 987 104 8666
for the next 50 years.
Then the attendant comes out and scans MENTOR & SPECIAL ADVISOR Hoshang S Billimoria

it with a hand-held device. Last month I was in Italy to celebrate MARKETING HEAD OFFICE
the 60th anniversary of Lamborghini and Next Gen Publishing Pvt. Ltd.
As automotive journalists we keep 608, Trade World, 6th Floor, C Wing, Kamala Mill Compound,
to drive some of their cars. In the days
driving new cars every week and most Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel (West), Mumbai 400013
gone by, an SUV used to be an off-road Tel: + 91 9321546598
cars do not come with a FASTag stuck to
vehicle. Then luxury car manufacturers Head Circulation Manager
the windscreen. We do not expect the Kapil Kaushik (North and East) Tel: +91 987 320 0589
started making luxury cars on stilts and
manufacturers to pay toll for us when we Subscription Supervisor Sachin Kelkar
called them luxury SUV. Now Lamborghini Tel: + 91 9321546598
are testing a car; however, whenever I
have taken the SUV to another level by E-mail: subscriptions@nextgenpublishing.net
present the FASTag from my personal car,
putting a supercar on stilts with the Urus Apple Newsstand & Magzter Queries:
the toll operators do not accept it and help@magzter.com
line-up.
make me pay double the amount. Zinio Subscriptions Queries:
http://in.zinio.com/help/index.jsp
It is ridiculous for us to buy a FASTag for REGIONAL MARKETING OFFICES
a car that is going to be with us for three Deputy General Manager Operations Chanchal Arora (North and East)
to four days. Moreover, it is preposterous NCR: Next Gen Publishing Pvt. Ltd.
Unit No. 109, 1st Floor, Sushant Plaza, Sushant Lok-1, A-Block,
to charge someone double the amount
Aspi
Gurgaon 122022, India
even if they present a FASTag. What is the General Manager Girish Shet (South)
problem if I present a FASTag issued with Bhathena Unit No. 509, 5th Floor ‘B’ Wing, Mittal Towers, MG Road,
Bengaluru 560001, India, Tel: + 91 80 66110116/17
a different registration number so long as Editor Cenetoph Elite, No.5, 1st Street, Teynampet,
there is sufficient balance in the account
Mem
Member Chennai 600018, India, Tel: + 91 44 42108421/42175421
and I am willing to pay the toll? The toll Srinivas Gangula, Territory Sales In-charge (Circulation),
attendants on the Mumbai-Pune Hyderabad, India, Tel: + 91 9000555756
Expressway are very adamant about the Vidyasagar Gupta, Territory Sales In-charge (Circulation),
Kolkata 700035, India, Tel: + 91 9804085683

Car India is a licensee product of Bauer Consumer Media Ltd., UK. Views
and opinions expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of

WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT Next Gen Publishing Pvt. Ltd. Next Gen Publishing does not take responsibility
for returning unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or other material. All
material published in Car India is copyright and no part of the magazine may
UNLIKE OTHER AUTOMOBILE MAGAZINES, foreign junkets and gifts are rampant in be reproduced in part or full without the express prior written permission of
Car India is 100 per cent devoted to cars, order to win over editorial staff, we strive the publisher
SUVs and MUVs. There are no bikes or hard to maintain our editorial integrity Printed by Marzban Jasoomani
commercial vehicles to be found in Car and balance. 608, Trade World, 6th floor, C wing,
Kamala Mill Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg,
India. Therefore, we have a very focused Our emphasis is on bringing out a Lower Parel (West). Mumbai - 400013
readership and also give our advertisers quality, information-packed issue that Published by Marzban Jasoomani
better bang for their buck! does not rely on mere filling up of pages. on behalf of Next Gen Publishing Pvt. Ltd., 608, Trade World, 6th floor,
Our editorial team is passionate about We are not in competition with magazines C wing, Kamala Mill Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg,
Lower Parel (West). Mumbai - 400013
cars. They eat, drink, live and breathe cars. that are in a page count race.
This lends the crucial extra touch to their Printed at Kala Jyothi Process Pvt. Ltd,
Finally, we never exchange advertising 1-1-60/5 RTCX Roads, Hyderabad - 20.
editorial efforts. for good reviews. Just take a look at our Published at Next Gen Publishing Pvt. Ltd.,
Our editorial team is bound by a strict ‘Car of the Year Awards’ for the past 18 608, Trade World, 6th floor, C wing,
code of conduct. In an industry where years. Not a single wrong one! Kamala Mill Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg,
Lower Parel (West). Mumbai - 400013

PUBLISHING

6 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


BULLETIN
Automotive News
From All Over The World

Mahindra Futurescape
Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd unveiled the Global Pik Up concept,
Vision Thar.e – Born Electric Vehicle concept, and a new brand
anthem, “Le Chalaang”, at their Futurescape event in South Africa

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8 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


Vision Thar.e
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www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 9


BULLETIN
International
News

New AMG GT Grows Porsche Cayenne Turbo


Numbers E-Hybrid
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10 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


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14 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


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16 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


Honda Elevate
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www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 17


BULLETIN
Launches

MG Astor Blackstorm
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18 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


`
FEATURE: Lamborghini at 60 Hyundai Ioniq 5 at a Wind Farm Martin Uhlarik Interview
` ` `
`
DRIVEN

HEAD-TO-HEAD
/ / / / / / / /
TESTED BMW M2

THE NEW 7 HYUNDAI IONIQ 5 MARUTI SUZUKI


Electric SUV charges in to shock luxury cars
18CitDroeRn C3IVAirEcroSss JIMNY
Kia Seltos
/ / Hyundai Exter
Sport D350
Range Rover
ectre
Rolls-Royce Sp
Honda Elevate er AWD TURBO S
Toyota Urban
Cruiser Hyryd
Porsche Ca yen ne PORSCHE
Audi Q8 e-tron to
Huracán Sterra
Lamborghini i Invicto
NEW YEAR, NEW CARS Maruti Suzuk
55
G SL
Mercedes-AM
nz GLC 300
Mercedes-Be
GL E 400 d
` ` ` `

nz
Mercedes-Be
e60 v
BMW i7 xDriv
Lucid Air GT v del S Plaid
580 v Tesla Mo
Mercedes EQS FEATURE
PORSCHE AND THE
/ / / / / /
eFUEL ADVENTURE

C40
/ /

HECTOR Q3 SPORTBACK MARUTI SUZUKI


FRONX RECHARGE

G.O.A.T? HYUNDAI
VERNA
BMW X1

THREE EASY WAYS TO SUBSCRIBE


Online Call Post

1 TO SUBSCRIBE
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FEATURE Bharat NCAP

Bharat NCAP Outlined;


Implementation from
October
Story: Jim Gorde

The country’s own New Car Assessment Program ADULT OCCUPANT PROTECTION (AOP)
Minimum score (Frontal Impact
(NCAP) that assesses production car models made in STARS
test+Side Impact test)
India for safety in a crash situation will be  27

implemented with effect from the 1st of October  22

R
 16

OAD SAFETY HAS SEEN of what it would cost for an overseas  10


a severe downward spiral and assessment, thus making it a more cost-  4
both the government and car- effective proposition as well.
makers are taking more steps Passenger cars, up to a weight of 3.5
to ensure the safety of all road- tonnes, will be subject to three impact CHILD OCCUPANT PROTECTION (COP)
users. One step in the right direction is a tests: an offset deformable barrier front Minimum qualifying points for
crash-test safety assessment program. impact test (at 64 km/h), a side impact STARS
star rating
The government of India felt the need test (at 50 km/h), and a pole side impact
for a program, the Bharat New Car test (at 29 km/h). The BNCAP will  41
Assessment Program (BNCAP), designed award a star rating of between “1” and “5”  35
to provide a fair, meaningful, and for the cars tested, “1” being the lowest.
objective assessment of crash safety The third test will be a qualifier for a  27
performance of cars on the basis of higher star rating as explained in the AIS  18
standard laboratory tests as per 197 document. The tests will assess the
Automotive Industry Standard (AIS 197) car’s performance and award separate star  9

which outlines the overall assessment ratings for adult occupant protection,
method, vehicle selection procedure, and child occupant protection as well as to two decimal places.
various tests and their assessment equipped active and passive safety The initiation will rest on the car-
protocols with the aim to promote safer features, side head protection, and maker. The company will nominate a
cars in the country and to help buyers pedestrian protection, the overall rating model for the test after which a team of
make an informed decision. being a reflection of the combined results. BNCAP representatives will visit the
Stated to be a voluntary move for the For a car to be awarded a star rating of manufacturing facility of that particular
manufacturers, it remains at the “5” or higher, it must comply with vehicle and will randomly select the base
discretion of the car-makers if they pedestrian protection as defined in AIS variant test subject, which will be
choose to have their vehicle assessed in 100. For a rating of “3” or higher, it dispatched to the testing centre by the
the BNCAP. However, with the change must have electronic stability control car-maker. The selected vehicle will be
in perception of buyer mindsets (ESC)—or ESP, VSM, VSC, DSC or subject to the crash-test process with
following some revelations from the the unique name chosen by different witnesses comprising representatives
crash safety tests conducted by Global manufacturers—to be subject to the from the car-maker and BNCAP. The
NCAP—and a few zero-star results—it GTR8 test conditions, and front seat- results will be compiled and shared with
turns out that a majority of potential car belt reminders complying with AIS 145. the car-maker and then sent for approval
customers reportedly would like to have The maximum score for adult occupant by the BNCAP standing committee.
a safety rating for their vehicle. It is protection is 32 points with 49 points Finally, the crash-test results and star
relevant to note here that the cost of a for child occupant protection. The base ratings for that particular vehicle will be
manufacturer testing a vehicle under variant of a model will be subject to published by BNCAP and a certificate
BNCAP will only be about one-fourth the test program with data entered up will be issued.

20 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


NEW
PRODUCTS

Panerai Submersible S
BRABUS eTitanio
PAM01403
Exclusive timepieces and equally exotic motoring go hand
in hand and another very unique example that has arrived
is the result of the meeting of iconic watchmaker Panerai
and the noted performance brand, BRABUS
Intersecting design and engineering, Panerai have always distinguished themselves
within the realm of high horological complications through their dedication to
innovation, technical mastery, and an unwavering focus on the finest details. Panerai’s
timepieces are precise chronometers, embodying the brand’s relentless pursuit of
horological expertise with a classic Italian essence.
The new Panerai Submersible S eTitanio PAM01403 continues the narrative of disruptive
and spectacular concepts in partnership with the performance luxury brand, BRABUS.
The 47-millimetre case is made of eTitanio, a fully recycled titanium powder derived
from pre-consumer scrap titanium alloy, and crafted using the “direct metal laser
sintering” (DMLS) technology. Panerai are among the first—and remain one of the
world’s very few watchmakers—to make use of this technique, resulting in a structure
that is lighter in weight and characterized by a uniform appearance that is nearly
impossible to achieve via traditional methods.
The watch case materialises seemingly out of thin air thanks to a precise 3D-printing
process, constructed by adding material rather than removing it. Layer by layer,
titanium powder is fused together by high-power fibre-optic laser sintering,
transforming it into a solid material and creating a shape from nothingness. In this
meticulous process, each pass of the laser adds an almost imperceptible but consistent
30 microns (0.03 mm). Most notably, this technique allows for the formation of a case
band that is hollow inside, without compromising on strength or water-resistance. The
DMLS titanium watch weighs a mere 115 grams, with the case alone coming in at just
23.6 grams; approximately 30 per cent lighter than the standard titanium case.
At the heart of the Submersible S is one of Laboratorio di Idee’s high-end
complications—the Skeleton Caliber. Showcasing a stripped-down movement, the
PANERAI SUBMERSIBLE S BRABUS
skeletonized structure is achieved through a sophisticated watch-making procedure eTITANIO PAM01403
that removes all unnecessary materials, drawing attention to the movement’s key
Price: Rs 44.71 lakh (limited to 177 units)
components. The micro-rotor ensures automatic winding, providing a power reserve of Movement: Automatic mechanical,
up to three days. A GMT function, with a second bi-colour hour hand and AM/PM P.4001/S caliber, 13¾ lignes, 7.36 mm thick,
indicator, underlines the functionality and versatility. A patented DMLS titanium process 31 jewels, Glucydur balance, 28,800 alternations/hour,
is joined by a security device for a watch control mechanism, a rotating bezel system, a KIF Parechoc anti-shock device, two barrels, 341 components,
lever with a rotating roller, a polarized date, and a zero reset as well as a stop second RȱFHQWHUHGRVFLOODWLQJZHLJKWLQWXQJVWHQ
Functions: Hours, Minutes, Small Seconds, Second Time Zone,
movement. The watch’s small seconds at 9 o’clock feature a second reset for optimal World Time, Calendar Aperture
time setting. An original Panerai creation is the patented polarized date, allowing the Power Reserve:ɢUHHGD\V
numerals to be visible only when passing through the opening without hiding the Case: 47-mm diameter, eTitanio DMLS case,
mechanism. Its skeletonized structure makes the watch notably lightweight, functional, Carbotech anti-clockwise rotating bezel with graduated scale,
and stylish. Details in red embody aesthetics inspired by the BRABUS design DNA. Screw titanium with DLC coating caseback,
See-through sapphire crystal caseback,
The watch is paired with two distinct bracelets: the first, a bi-material black calf strap,
eTitanio Safety Lock crown protection device,
and the second, a black strap made of 68 per cent recycled PET from post-consumer Sapphire crystal
wastes. PAM01403 is a boutique exclusive time, limited to 177 pieces worldwide, a Strap: Calf rubber bi-material black, T/T, 26/22, BA, STD
homage to the year 1977 when BRABUS was founded. Waterproof: 30 bar (~300 metres)

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 21


SPECIAL FEATURE Kia Seltos

Badass 2.0
The New
Seltos
A perfect drive at a perfect price::
the new Kia Seltos is the most
premium and among the he
smarter and safer SUVs in India
a

T
HE SELTOS WAS SINGLE-HANDEDLY
responsible for establishing Kia India in August
2019 and kept going strong, earning accolades
and growing steadily in numbers, racking up
more than five lakh sales and pushing Kia
India’s market share to shake things up in the upper crust.
The Seltos is one of the biggest brands for Kia India: one out
of 10 Kia cars sold globally is a Seltos. It contributes up to 60
per cent to Kia’s domestic sales in India and is the second
highest-selling mid-SUV in the country.
What’s stopping it? The new Seltos is a proper badass and it
brings the walk to go with the talk. With the most premium
drive experience comes a muscular exterior—with a bold
new-age design thinking and a signature Tiger-Nose grille, and
Badass new
an all-new interior with several cutting-edge features like the interior brings
panoramic sunroof, 10.25-inch dual-display, and dual-zone a-c more comfort
and safety kit

22 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


Above: Huge dual-
pane panoramic
glass sunroof
Left: Sharp 10-25-
inch dual displays
Right: Bold new
take on the Tiger-
Nose grille

and climate control, not to mention class-leading Advanced so much as blink at the wrong time. The importance of these
Driver Assistance System (ADAS) with as many as 17 features. advanced active safety is only found out when it could have
Taking things to the next level is the best-in-segment 1.5-litre been too late driving anything else. Don’t be caught without it
Turbo-GDi petrol engine producing 160 hp and 253 Nm, when you need it the most. It’s better to have and not need
making it the most powerful mid-SUV in India. The power of than to need and not have. Just bring home the most evolved
choice is a given with Kia India and, in addition to the turbo badass. Ever!
engine, the 2023 Kia Seltos also offers the efficient Smartstream In addition, the Seltos brings the “Robust 15 Standard Safety
G1.5 naturally aspirated petrol engine and the D1.5 turbo-diesel Pack” with an extensive list of kit from standard six airbags and
engine. There is also a choice of sporty and quick transmissions: three-point seat-belts for all the variants, complemented by 11
an MT, an iMT, an IVT, a 6AT, and the lightning-quick 7DCT. active safety features, including all wheel disc brakes with ABS
In total, the all-new Seltos is available in 18 variants—to make (anti-lock braking system) and BAS (brake-force assist system),
finding your choice of badass even easier. plus ESC (electronic stability control) and VSM (vehicle
Safety is never to be taken lightly and the new Seltos has you stability management), to name only a few.
covered on that count. The 32 safety features on board include The cherry on top of it all—the price. The
the best-in-segment 17 Level 2 ADAS features supported by Badass 2.0 starts from just Rs 10.89 lakh—
three radars and a camera—the same as the super-premium Kia now that’s a winning combination for the
EV6. These ensure the most advanced preventive and protective Seltos—a great attitude matched by an
safety features that keep an eye out for you when you happen to irresistible price tag.

Right: Unique design


18-inch light alloy
wheels
Below: With 160 hp and
253 Nm, the Badass is
the strongest in its class

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 23


YOUR
VIEWS POST: CAR INDIA MAGAZINE: S.No. 261/G.L.R.No. 5,
East Street, Camp, Pune 411001. INDIA
TWITTER: @carindia INSTAGRAM: carindia_mag

EMAIL: carindia@nextgenpublishing.net FACEBOOK: facebook.com/carindia WEBSITE: www.carindia.in

well and, going by our own experience,


offered a reasonable real-world range of
slightly more than 150 kilometres.
Alternatively, you could also look at the
Tata Tiago.ev or the MG Comet.

Awaiting the C3 Aircross


When will the Citroën C3 Aircross be
launched and is it worth waiting for
over the new Tata Nexon?
Dhanraj K, via social media
Car for Adventurous
Exploration Hello, Dhanraj,
What would be a good car to explore Citroën have not given us a timeline for the
places off the beaten track? I enjoy a launch. We will bring you an update on our
variety of adventure activities and most social media channels as soon as we have
of them are in rural areas. A small SUV the information. The new Tata Nexon is a
that has good off-road capabilities and significant upgrade over the car it replaces
is reasonably comfortable would suit and we enjoyed driving the turbo-petrol
my purpose well. Will the Maruti Suzuki DCT model. However, the Nexon does not
Jimny fit the bill? have the five-plus-two seating
Rihan V, via social media configuration offered by the C3 Aircross. If
Hello, Neeraj, that is a priority, it may be worth the wait.
Dear Rihan, The Hyundai Exter strikes us as a
Yes, the Maruti Suzuki Jimny could answer compelling choice for a city car but within
your requirements perfectly. We currently that segment you may also try the Citroën
have a Jimny in our fleet for a long-term C3, Tata Punch, or the Maruti Suzuki Ignis.
test and it is perfect for exploring places in
and around Pune. No complaints so far. EV for the City
Recently, I came across a social media
Exter Reassurance post about Car India’s long-term Citroën
After test-driving the Hyundai Exter, I ëC3. Would you recommend it mainly
was impressed by the car. It is compact for commuting within the city?
yet adequately spacious inside and has Sisupalan M, via social media
good levels of quality. Which other cars Dear Sisupalan,
of similar size should I test-drive before During our time with the Citroën ëC3, we
making a decision? did not find anything to grumble about. It
Neeraj G, via social media serves its purpose as a compact city car

24 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


ANALYSIS
Car Sales

UPS AND DOWNS :H FRPSLOH DQG DQDO\VH VDOHV GDWD WR ȴQG


the most popular cars of the month past

Top 10 Bestsellers July 2023


June 15,955 units
MARUTI SUZUKI
Swift July 17,896 units 12.17%
June 14,077 units
MARUTI SUZUKI
Baleno July 16,725 units 18.81%
June 10,578 units
MARUTI SUZUKI
Brezza July 16,548 units 56.44%
June 8,422 units
MARUTI SUZUKI
Ertiga July 14,352 units 70.41%
June 14,447 units
HYUNDAI
Creta July 14,062 units -2.66%
June 9,322 units
MARUTI SUZUKI
Dzire July 13,395 units 43.69%
June 7,991 units
MARUTI SUZUKI
Fronx July 13,220 units 65.44%
June 17,481 units
MARUTI SUZUKI
WagonR July 12,970 units -25.81%
June 13,827 units
TATA
Nexon July 12,349 units -10.69%
June 9,354 units
MARUTI SUZUKI
Eeco July 12,037 units 28.68%

Top Five SUVs Top Five Sedans


June 10,578 units June 9,322 units
MARUTI SUZUKI
ZUKI MARUTI SUZUKI
ZUKI
Brezza July 16,548 units 56.44% Dzire July 13,395 units 43.69%
June 14,447 units June 4,907 units
HYUNDAI HYUNDAI
Creta July 14,062 units -2.66% Aura July 4,514 units -8.01%
June 7,991 units June 3,602 units
MARUTI SUZUKI
ZUKI HONDA
Fronx July 13,220 units 65.44% Amaze July 3,386 units -6.00%
Source: Autopunditz

June 13,827 units June 4,001 units


TATA HYUNDAI
Nexon July 12,349 units -10.69% Verna July 2,858 units -28.57%
June 10,990 units June 3,335 units
TATA TATA
Punch July 12,019 units 9.36% Tigor July 2,684 units -19.52%

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 25


SPECIAL FEATURE Destination Weddings with Hyundai Verna

Verna Attends a
Beachside Wedding
26 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in
Story: Joshua Varghese
We drove the new Hyundai Verna to Visakhapatnam to Photography: Apurva Ambep
experience the charm of a destination wedding and Rahul Soman

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 27


SPECIAL FEATURE Destination Weddings with Hyundai Verna

I
N A FEW YEARS, A DECADE WOULD HAVE of a professional who has been in the field for a little more than 10
elapsed since I graduated from college and, of late, my social years now. He has not been marrying professionally but he has
media accounts have developed a consistency in pattern. been capturing the once-in-a-lifetime moments that reveal
Most of my friends are either attending weddings of other themselves only at weddings.
people our age or getting married themselves. What I should Rahul Soman is a wedding photographer and founder of the
have done is taken a break from social media but that was when I successful company, Jumping Souls. They cover and curate
was introduced to the concept of “destination weddings”. exhaustive content at weddings. He started with photography then
Evidently, it is not enough that two people get married; this format bolstered his skill set with editing. His growing reputation
is about getting them married at beautiful locations. encouraged him to expand his business and that is how Jumping
If it sounds like a bother for guests, perhaps, one is perceiving it Souls was born. Soman is a well-awarded photographer and some
the wrong way. From the perspective of a driving enthusiast, it of his accolades include the Fearless Award, the Wedaward (30
looks like one is invited to a lavish party at the end of a road trip. times), and the Wedding Sutra Award in addition to multiple
Why bother with all the hassle of logistics and travel when there is international awards.
an option to drive there? We decided to attend a destination According to Soman, Visakhapatnam is one of the most popular
wedding and verify if it was beneficial to people who liked nice Indian cities for destination weddings. With its own airport and
cars and long drives. For that, we needed a car whose style an abundance of luxury resorts/venues along the northern coast,
matched its ability to cover long distances in comfort and the new this city had everything to make life easy for guests and just as
Hyundai Verna fit the bill perfectly. special for the newly weds. However, my interest was captured
In order to get away from the urban chaos, a couple who had solely by the road that snaked along the coastline. We were in the
roots in both Andhra Pradesh and Odisha were looking for a top-of-the-line Hyundai Verna, the 1.5-litre, turbo-petrol model
wedding venue. It had to be a location that offered copious equipped with the seven-speed DCT—a car that appreciates good
amounts of beauty and tranquillity and they chose the coastal city roads and long drives.
of Visakhapatnam. Although it is one of the most populous cities Visakhapatnam did not disappoint and neither did the Verna.
in Andhra Pradesh, towards its northern outskirts, Visakhapatnam With 160 hp on tap, it is the most powerful sedan in its segment
offers some stunning and tranquil beaches. That part of town is far and it is fully equipped to move at a good clip. More importantly,
removed from the hustle and bustle of the city. A wedding by the it juggles style and comfort effortlessly.
seaside for the lovely couple then. Rushikonda has among the most beautiful beaches in the city
As a bachelor who has not attended many weddings, my and it is maintained by an extremely diligent state tourism board.
knowledge of the subject was limited, so I decided to seek the help Not only are the roads in spotless condition, so is the landscaping

Rahul had many


interesting tips and
tales to share
www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 29
SPECIAL FEATURE Destination Weddings with Hyundai Verna
V I S A K H A PAT N A M D I D N O T
DISAPPOINT AND NEITHER DID THE
V E R N A . W I T H 1 6 0 H P O N TA P, I T
IS TH E M OST POWE RFU L SE DAN
car like the Verna, people could also go and explore a bit of
I N I T S S E G M E N T A N D I T I S F U L LY Visakhapatnam, take in its sights and regional food.
E Q U I P P E D T O M O V E AT A G O O D C L I P When asked about the biggest challenge of wedding
photography, Soman’s reply was simple: there are no retakes.
Clicking the right photo at the right moment is crucial in his line
along the coast. For any of the guests who chose to drive to the of work. Something that he appreciated about the Verna’s DCT
wedding, the sights along the way would have certainly made their too. It shifted smoothly and was quick to respond, completing
road trip extremely memorable. Along the twisty sections, the overtakes without leaving room for any second guesses or
Verna was a joy to drive. Since the car had disc brakes all around, I hesitation. A wedding photographer has to be on his toes
was confident entering a corner on the brake and then bleeding it throughout the event and it is certainly not a one-man job, which
off to dial in the power. In Sport mode, the tachometer’s race to is why Soman had brought along a team. They worked like trained
the red-line was thrilling to behold. As the roads opened up, I operatives, aiming and shooting multiple targets in tandem
switched the transmission to the manual mode and quickly got without ever alerting anyone to their presence. As a spectator, it
addicted to using the paddle-shifters to change gears. Then came was tiring for me to watch and I could not help but feel that each
roads that mimicked the natural curve of the coastline. On such of those photographers would have loved to sink into the
stretches, I would flick the transmission back into automatic mode comfortable cabin of the Verna. Good air-conditioning is a crucial
and a steady application of throttle was all that was needed to keep element of a long drive, especially in a place as humid as
up the pace. That is what makes this car special; its ability to be Visakhapatnam, and the Verna comes with an automatic system
fun and the ease which with it covers distance with minimal effort. that works quickly; further supplemented by ventilated seats and
Almost everyone who was within 500 kilometres of the location an excellent Bose sound system.
had elected to drive to the venue. Within a few hours, the wedding With a portfolio of work that is as diverse as India’s culture,
was in full swing. Everybody seemed to be in good spirits and the Soman and crew are among the well-travelled photographers in
general vibe at the location was considerably better than any the country. After a drive in the Verna, he was suitably
regular wedding. People just seemed to be more relaxed and impressed by the car’s abilities and features. He found the car
somehow more conducive to celebrate a moment instead of shared core traits with his prized camera equipment. They
planning an early exit to avoid traffic. What would have been a include speed, smoothness, and ease of use. We had a good time
ceremony at a local place of worship followed by a reception at a experiencing the intricacies of destination weddings and the
nearby hall had instantly transformed into a spectacular event and complications of wedding photography. Best of all, we
a chance for the bride and bridegroom’s families to get to know appreciated how the Verna made everything enjoyable
each other better over the next couple of days. Of course, with a effortlessly. Effortlessly; that is the keyword.

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 31


SPECIAL FEATURE Valvoline #SwitchtoSynthetic

#SwitchToSynthetic
With Valvoline’s new All Climate Advanced 5W30 and All Climate
Premium 10W40 Full Synthetic Engine Oils, it is now more
rewarding to switch to synthetic engine oil

V
ALVOLINE HAVE GONE THE EXTRA MILE as well as more rewarding to Switch to Synthetic.
so you can go further with the new range of Making the switch to full synthetic engine oil is not
high-performance Synthetic Engine Oils: only more environment-friendly but also offers the
All Climate Advanced 5W30 and All Climate best protection and care for the car’s engine.
Premium 10W40. Valvoline know that all cars—whether big or small, old
Valvoline Cummins are a global leader and or new, irrespective of make and segment, hatchback,
innovators of engine oil who brought world’s first sedan, MPV or SUV—deserve the very best car care
branded engine oil, had always been at the forefront of and should be well taken care of. Valvoline’s All
innovation and continuous research, resulting in them Climate Advanced 5W30 and All Climate Premium
bringing industry first products to you. Valvoline is 10W40 Full Synthetic Engine Oils make it accessible
also the lubricant partner of the Aston Martin F1 Team for all car owners.
with double world champion Fernando Alonso and With Valvoline All Climate Advanced 5W30 and All
Lance Stroll vying for the ultimate glory at the sharp Climate Premium 10W40 Full Synthetic Engine Oils,
end of the field. which have been made available to consumers across
The brand has introduced many industry-first segments, car owners no longer need to spend 1.5x
products and unique campaigns to connect with its the amount to avail the best-in-class full synthetic
consumers while also dispelling various myths. And engine oil for their cars. After all, Valvoline truly
when it comes to engine oil, they bring innovative new believes that innovation is meaningful only when it
solutions that are both useful and which will positively maximizes value for consumers. That makes it easier
touch the life of a car-owner, making it easier than ever than ever for you to #SwitchToSynthetic.

32 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 33
CELEBRATION DRIVE Lamborghini at Sixty

Drive Par
Excellence

34 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


The Lamborghini brand is synonymous with
performance. This year it celebrates its 60th anniversary.
What better way to celebrate the anniversary than to
drive their iconic cars? We were invited to drive those at
the home of Lamborghini in Sant’Agata
Story: Aspi Bhathena Photography: Lamborghini
CELEBRATION DRIVE Lamborghini at Sixty

Above: A sporty cabin apt for a


high-performance car
Right: Getting familiar with the
modes and functions

36 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


Urus S lower rear completes the supercar look. turning circle, the Urus is equipped with
We landed in Bologna, the capital of The black leather trim with rear-wheel steering.
performance for the automobile industry. bi-colour interior is of the highest The minute I pressed the starter
Within a hundred square kilometres there quality and luxurious when you get into button, the V8 turbo-charged engine
are three top performance brands in the this big SUV. burst into life with a roar. As we exited
world: Lamborghini in Sant’Agata, The Urus is powered by a V8 biturbo the factory premises and headed out
Ferrari in Maranello, and Ducati in the twin-scroll turbo-charged engine pushing towards the countryside, the first thing
heart of Bologna. out 666 hp at 6,000 rpm and a hefty 850 that struck me was the width of the Urus.
There were six of us and Lamborghini Nm of torque from 2,300 rpm. The When you encounter an oncoming truck
had lined up six cars for us to drive: two powerplant is mated to an eight-speed on a narrow single-lane road, you
Urus S, two Urus Performante, and two auto ’box. instantly realise the width of this SUV.
Huracan Tecnica. It worked out just The suspension set-up comprises Once up in the hills, it was time to
perfectly for me as my first car to start the multilink at the front and rear, the select Sport mode and start using the
celebratory drive was the Urus S, the stopping power is provided by carbon paddle-shifters to downshift and get
luxurious of the three cars we were going ceramic front and rear with 10-piston engine braking to enter the corners and
to drive. aluminium monobloc calipers at the front it was pedal to the metal exiting the
At the front, the new bumper design and cast iron single piston floating caliper turns. The big SUV felt like a hatchback
adopts refined lines and incorporates a at the rear. To improve the agility and the on steroids. I was having a ball throwing
new matte black painted stainless steel the Urus from one corner to the next.
skid-plate, which are complemented by Lamborghini Urus S The exhaust sound was intoxicating,
black lines of the front grille. The carbon- Price: Rs 4.18 crore (ex-showroom) both while accelerating or downshifting.
fibre bonnet with carbon-fibre air-vents Engine: 3,996 cc, V8, twin-turbo petrol The Urus S drive was until our stop-over
gives the SUV a supercar look. Its coupé- Max Power: 666 hp at 6,000 rpm for luncheon.
Max Torque: 850 Nm at 2,300-4,500 rpm
like roof-line and 22-inch wheels The spread was phenomenal but I had
Transmission: Eight-speed, automatic,
complete the supercar when seen from all-wheel drive to restrain myself because we had a lot of
the side. The twin-pipe exhaust in Suspension: Multi-link front and rear driving to do and next in line was the
brushed stainless steel with matte-finish Weight: 2,197 kg Urus Performante.
Top: Huracán Tecnica offers a
low driving position
Above: Urus Performante cabin
is a special place to be in

38 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


CELEBRATION DRIVE Lamborghini at Sixty
Urus Performante torque from 2,300 rpm. The engine is
The Urus Performante is basically very mated to an eight-speed auto ’box and the
similar to the Urus S except that it comes power is put down on the road via a four-
with quite a lot of performance wheel-drive system. The suspension
enhancement. Visually from the front, the set-up at the front and rear is multi-link
deep cuts in the bonnet lines down to the which has been lowered by 22 millimetres
front bumper and splitter, the bonnet with new steel springs. Braking is taken
including the air outlet, is forged from care of by carbon ceramic discs front and
lightweight carbon-fibre along with the rear, with a 10-piston monobloc caliper at
roof. The front bumper and splitter in WKHIURQWDQGDVLQJOHSLVWRQpRDWLQJ
carbon-fibre accentuate the new lines, the caliper at the rear. The Performante has
black front air intakes improve engine shed 47 kilograms of weight thanks to the
cooling and add to the super SUV’s look. H[WHQVLYHXVHRIFDUERQoEUHDQGWLWDQLXP
The increase in length and lower height After lunch I swapped the Urus S for
along with the front and rear wing and the Urus Performante and once I adjusted
lower stance make the Performante look my driving position, it was time to select immediately make out that the
sportier with its 22-inch wheels. The the Sport drive mode and get going. This Performante is much sharper than the S
carbon-fibre rear diffuser and Akrapovic time there were no city roads; we were when you flick it from one corner into the
sports exhaust system complete its high- flying from the word go and I could next. It also feels much quicker compared
performance look. to the S while powering out of corners.
Inside, the Nero Cosmus black Lamborghini Urus Performante The lower ride height and weight make a
Alcantara leather and the hexagonal seat Price: Rs 4.22 crore (base, ex-showroom) big difference between the two siblings.
stitching enhance the look and feel of the Engine: 3,996 cc, V8, twin-turbo petrol At one time, an SUV was a vehicle for
interior. It is well appointed as one would Max Power: 666 hp at 6,000 rpm venturing off the beaten track. Then came
Max Torque: 850 Nm at 2,300-4,500 rpm
expect of an SUV of this calibre. The the SUV that was a luxury car on stilts
Transmission: Eight-speed, automatic,
Performante is powered by a V8 twin all-wheel drive and now Lamborghini have taken the
turbo four-litre engine producing 666 hp Suspension: Multi-link front and rear SUV to the next level by making a
at 6,000 rpm and a whopping 850 Nm of Weight: 2,150 kg supercar on stilts.

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 39


V10 engine behind the seats
among the last of its kind
CELEBRATION DRIVE Lamborghini at Sixty
Huracán Tecnica wishbone independent suspension with
The best was saved for the last and that steel spring with hydraulic dampers and
was the Huracán Tecnica. The Tecnica’s Magne ride electromagnetic damper
inward facing front with muscular control. The brakes are carbon-ceramic
VKRXOGHUVPHHWDFDUERQoEUHERQQHWWKH discs with six-piston monobloc calipers
bumper features Terzo Millennio’s black at the front and four-piston calipers at
Ypsilon design, incorporating an air the rear.
FXUWDLQIRUWKHoUVWWLPHRQWKH+XUDF±Q$ The last car for me to drive for the day
new front splitter with open slats directs was the Tecnica. As mentioned earlier, the
air through to the wheels to improve best was saved for the last. Once you get
downforce and cooling. From the side, this into the car and sink into the seat that is
car looks mean and aggressive alike at the adjustable for height and reach, you can
front and rear. It looks every bit a supercar feel the side bolstering hugging you to
meant for the road and track. keep you from moving side to side during
The interior has been created and hard cornering due to the high G-force.
crafted for the driver. The adjustable The moment you press the start button, and the exhaust note changed. After a few
seat immerses you into the driver’s the V10 engine roars into life. The ride corners, I selected the Corsa mode and the
cockpit. The interior is top-notch and quality was surprisingly good for a car became even sharper. The rear-wheel
one can feel how light the door is when supercar. Once we got out of the village, I drive Tecnica accelerates fast out of
one closes it. selected the Sport mode. The suspension corners, pushing you back into the seat,
The Tecnica is powered by a naturally oUPHGXSWKHVWHHULQJEHFDPHSRVLWLYH and turns like a go-kart. Entering corners
aspirated V10 engine producing a takes the driving experience to another
whopping 640 hp at 8,000 rpm and 565 Lamborghini Huracán Tecnica level as the carbon ceramic brakes haul the
Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. This engine is Price: Rs 4.04 crore (base, ex-showroom) car down with the engine braking with a
mated to a seven-speed auto ’box via dual Engine: 5,204 cc, V10, petrol couple of tugs on the left paddle-shifter.
clutch and the power is put down on the Max Power: 640 hp at 8,000 rpm The power on tap is incredible as the V10
road via the rear wheels. Max Torque: 565 Nm at 6,500 rpm blasts out of corners with acceleration that
The chassis and body structure is a Transmission: Seven-speed, dual-clutch one has to experience to fathom the
automatic, all-wheel drive
hybrid construction of carbon-fibre, Suspension: Double wishbone front and rear,
G-force that is created. Compared to the
aluminium, and composite material. The magneto-rheological damping supercars of previous generation, the
suspension set-up consists of a double Weight: 1,379 kg Tecnica is a baby to drive.

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 41


GOING FORWARD The Internationale Automobile-Ausstelling (IAA or the
International Automobile Exhibition) took place in Munich this
year and there were some stellar reveals to talk about
Story: Jim Gorde

42 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


FEATURE IAA Munich
Audi Q8
Audi’s update of the flagship Q brings design and technology
changes, including revised front and rear aprons, new wheels,
colours, decorative inlays, and an optional S line exterior
package. For the first time, the Q8 has HD Matrix LED
headlights with a
laser as an
additional high
beam. These
headlights feature
Q6 e-tron digital DRL and
A rather large all-electric SUV that sits above the mid-size Q4 selectable light
e-tron and the bigger Q8 e-tron we have in India. The Q6 signatures. The
e-tron is the first model series based on the newly developed new digital OLED
Premium Platform Electric (PPE) and the new E3 electronics tail-lights have four
architecture. Expect output choices level with higher Q4 selectable rear light
versions (195-220 kW) and a range of over 500 kilometres. designs.

BMW iX1 eDrive20


The entry model to the electric iX range is the new iX1
eDrive20 with a single motor in the front. With up to 150 kW
(204 hp) and 250 Nm and a 64.78-kWh battery pack, the iX1
promises everyday usability and enough range. It also features
the new BMW iDrive with “QuickSelect”.

Vision Neue Klasse


The vision of the future. The new class of automobile from
Bavaria sheds light on the forthcoming generation of models
from BMW. The Vision Neue Klasse brings together innovations
in the areas of electrification, digitization, and circularity in
signature BMW style. The Vision vehicle takes design, control,
operation, efficiency, and sustainability into a whole new
dimension from what we’ve been used to thus far.

i7 Protection
The BMW i7 Protection is the world’s first ever high-security
sedan with an all-electric drive system. Driven by two
powerful electric motors with a combined 400 kW (544 hp) and
745 Nm, it meets all the requirements of class VR9 protection
without any limitations. The weight? Near about five tonnes.

iX5 Hydrogen
Equipped with the latest fifth generation of BMW eDrive
technology, the iX5 Hydrogen features a highly integrated
drive unit at the rear axle that draws its energy from a high-
performance battery especially developed for the hydrogen
fuel-cell vehicle. It generates 295 kW (401 hp). The electric
motor also doubles as a generator.

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 43


FEATURE IAA Munich
Mini Cooper and Countryman E and SE
The electrified go-kart feeling and immersive user
experience are taken to a new level with the new Mini
models, bringing in a modern and purist design that
focuses on the essentials. The fifth-generation Cooper and
new Countryman emphasize their suitability for everyday
motoring and setting out on adventures beyond city limits.
In addition, the Mini Aceman will premiere in April 2024 as
a crossover in the premium small car segment.

Mercedes-Benz Concept CLA


The world premiere of the new Concept CLA Class marked the
arrival of the first vehicle on the new Mercedes-Benz Modular
Architecture (MMA) and claiming a range of more than 750 km
(WLTP). Radically different with bold styling and a new
generation of interior equipment and sustainable materials
make for a unique future compact model.

New Global Brand Campaign


The marque revealed their all-new global brand campaign,
“Defining Class since 1886”, that draws attention to their
heritage and constant evolution. From the Patentwagen and
540K to the 300SL and the latest AMG SL, there are more than
several icons created by the Three-pointed Star over their 137
years of existence.

Mercedes-Benz Charging Network


The roll-out of the global Mercedes-Benz High-power Charging
Network is progressing well and will see the opening of the
first charging stations in Atlanta (USA), Chengdu (China), and
Mannheim (Germany) in the fourth quarter of 2023. Mercedes
plan to expand their global fast-charging network to over
2,000 fast-charging points by the end of 2024 and target a
global reach by end of decade with more than 10,000 high-
power chargers in North America, Europe, China, and other
core markets.

E-Class All-Terrain
The all-road-ready version of the T-Modelle estate completes
the new E-Class family as the marque prepares for a global
roll-out of the new W214 model. The new E brings more
electrified powertrains, including two plug-in hybrid electric
vehicle (PHEV) versions.

44 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


Polestar
Synergy
A 1:1 full-size scale model,
Polestar have brought the
winning design from the latest
Polestar Design Contest to life
as the “Polestar Synergy”. The
electric fantasy supercar
combines three winning designs
which took the honours in the
latest competition from a field
of over 600 entries. Entrants
responded to a brief to design a
Polestar vehicle centred around
the experience of performance,
providing an advanced technical
story that enables this in a
sustainable way. It stands just
1.07 metres tall and measures
4.56 metres long, exhibiting
proportions and details not yet
seen from the brand to create a
stunning supercar silhouette.

Volkswagen
ID. GTI Concept
With the ID. GTI Concept show car Volkswagen are demonstrating for the
first time how the “GTI” badge will transcend into the age of electric
mobility. The production version of the ID. GTI that will be based on the
modular electric drive (MEB) platform is scheduled to hit the roads in
2027. Volkswagen confirmed that they would produce only electric
vehicles in Europe by 2033.

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 45


FIRST DRIVE Volvo C40 Recharge

A
Class
Act
Volvo have brought the stunning C40 Recharge
into India. This is their first coupé SUV model,
albeit a compact one, and it extends their
advantage in the luxury electric vehicle
segment. We drive it in the hills outside Pune
Story: Jim Gorde Photography: Apurva Ambep and Volvo Car India

46 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


FIRST DRIVE Volvo C40 Recharge

N
INETY-SIX YEARS HAVE GONE BY SINCE AC and DC charging
Volvo began doing what they do best—making available; the latter
safe cars for everyday use in the most challenging up to 150 kW
of scenarios. Volvo have been everywhere: the sky,
the water, and all around the globe. While they
have been known for making boxy estates, including the 850 that
went racing, their design language took a curvaceous turn
towards the breathtakingly stunning and modern circa 2014. The
new XC90 SUV led the charge and the XC60 followed, with the
smaller XC40 joining the ranks soon thereafter. Their first all-
electric car, the XC40 Recharge, marked the keynote that
sounded the next wave of their success. Now there’s another
all-new model, the C40 Recharge.
So, what of the new C model? The C40 is new, yes, but the
“C” model-line goes back over 25 years to the C70 coupé and
convertible models. The handsome coupé didn’t make it to a new
generation but the convertible saw a new model, new engines, Powered tail-gate
is convenient to
and a longer life, including a powerful five-cylinder turbo-petrol operate
and even a turbo-diesel with that familiar “D5” badge.
The C30 hatchback was the other model. You’d know it if you
happened to watch the Twilight movie franchise. It’s the car
Edward Cullen (or Cedric Diggory, as I know him) drives on
screen. It was also the base for the Polestar-worked PCP with a
405-hp, 2.5-litre, five-cylinder turbo-petrol engine. But on to the
new 40. This one has 408 hp but doesn’t have five cylinders or
any cylinders… well, apart from the ones for the brakes.
The C40 Recharge marks a series of firsts for Volvo. It’s a new
badge. It’s the first C model with four doors. It’s the company’s
first coupé-style SUV and, of course, it’s the first C model in
India; the C70 and C30 were never sold here.
At first glance, it looks stunning. And that commands a second,
much longer look at it. It gets a styling similar to that of the XC40
Recharge at the front, but there are differences. The grille is co-
ordinated with the body colour, the headlights are new Pixel LED
units and make use of several individual diodes that make for a
better active light spread and the use of anti-dazzle beams. Around
the side is where the design difference is most pronounced.
Although 4,440 millimetres long and running the same 2,702-mm
wheelbase as the XC40, the C40 has a roof-line that sharply tapers
off in dramatic style and lowers into the substantial shoulder-line
ending in a pair of neat new tail-light clusters which now flow into
the tail-gate to continue the line of what has become one of the T H E V O LV O C 4 0 R E C H A R G E H A S T H E
most iconic tail-lamp designs in the world.
Inside, there is no dearth of space, comfort, equipment or S O R T O F A U R A T H AT M A K E S O N E
luxury. Everything looks simple, well-finished, and, well, very FE E L DAM N N E AR I NVI NCI B LE
Volvo. Function takes top priority and there are no elements that
divert attention from the essence of their need to be there.
Everything just fits. The large glass roof is a new touch and the
glass is laminated and insulated for maximum heat and UV
protection. The materials used for the carpets, door-panel trim,
and such are made from recycled or upcycled sustainable
materials including reclaimed wood, plastic bottles, and cork,
among others. One particular element that augments the
presence of the unique material used, and indeed the car’s
origins, is the glowing dashboard section on the passenger side.
It resembles the topography of the Swedish mountains and is a
truly unique rendition on its roots. The 12.3-inch centre
touchscreen isn’t as obvious as before, now joined by a neat
stack of climate controls and another high-resolution info-
display behind the steering wheel for the driver. The fact that it
is an ergonomically gifted car makes it very easy to find a

48 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


Immaculate quality and
ergonomics; leather-free
cabin makes use of
sustainable materials
Volvo C40 Recharge Twin
Price: Rs 61.25 lakh (ex-showroom)
Battery Pack: 78 kWh, 400-volt, lithium-ion
Electric Motor (F): 120 kW (163 hp), NA Nm
Electric Motor (R): 180 kW (245 hp), NA Nm
Peak Combined Output: 408 hp, 660 Nm
Transmission: Single-speed automatic front and rear, all-wheel drive
Suspension: MacPherson strut front, multi-link rear
Weight: 2,185 kg
Max Charge Capacity: 150 kW DC
Range: 530 km (WLTP), 683 km (ICAT)

Coupé stance New tail-light clusters


accented by sporty extend beyond
aero bits convention

50 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


FIRST DRIVE Volvo C40 Recharge
comfortable driving position and just get going. The smart
key fob is all that is needed and, like the XC40 Recharge, there
is no start button. Just move the by-wire shift-lever to “D” and
it’s ready to go.
This time of the year. This place. Of course, it was pouring and
visibility was rather poor. Thankfully, the Sensus safety suite of
highly advanced driver assistant systems means everything—from
the Pilot Assist, Lane-keep Assist, Blind-spot Information
System, Adaptive Cruise Control, Collision Warning and
Distance Alert, and Autonomous Emergency Braking that is now
smarter and more progressive than ever—is armed and ready, day
or night, rain or shine. The C40 employs five cameras, three
radars, and a dozen ultrasonic sensors that each do an admirable
job. It’s quite incredible how far they’ve gotten from the City
Safety system with autonomous braking in the 2010 XC60. As I
made my way around through the drenched narrow streets, it
seemed like an uncrashable car. The addition of one-pedal
driving—including multiple levels of automatic regeneration—
made the experience far easier and a lot more convenient than it
would have been, not just in a normal car but even in a luxury car
twice its price. The intuitive nature and the essential simplicity of
comfort and the right things in the right place add to the luxury
experience several-fold.
The powertrain, too, belies its small car dimensions. The twin
150-kW (204-hp) motors front and rear in the XC40 Recharge
have given way to a 120-kW (163-hp) front and 180-kW (245-hp)
rear. Still the same 300-kW (408-hp) peak output, but the bias is
clearly more towards the rear (40:60). Remember, there are no
differentials or prop-shafts, just a pair of motors, windings, and
magnetism working their magic. Instant gratification comes from
the use of the right foot with zero delay and zero tail-pipe
emissions. The C40 Recharge Twin can do zero to 100 km/h in
4.7 seconds and get up to a limited top speed of 180 km/h. The
claimed range is 530 km on the WLTP cycle, and a more lenient
683 km from ICAT. It weighs 2,185 kilograms, three kilos less
than the XC40 Recharge Twin. Thanks to smart design and a
reasonably high ground clearance of 171 mm, it can handle more
than its fair share of the rough stuff, but prefers to spend time on
paved surfaces with appropriate road markings.
The Volvo C40 Recharge is quite a peppy performer—what
with performance equivalent to a 6.0-litre V8 petrol engine—and
is well-calibrated for all sorts of weather conditions. The ride is
par excellence and the combination of Volvo’s touring chassis and
compliant suspension soaks up any undulations and road surface
inconsistencies with ease and makes for a planted and
reassuringly sure-footed feel, even on the dirt. The power delivery
Stylish yet aero-
efficient 19-inch
isn’t the on-off kind either and it can be used in a nicely linear
alloy wheels manner with instantaneous responses across the usable band. The
steering feel is appreciably light and makes it easy to manoeuvre
at both low and high speed. Overall, full marks for performance.
Volvo tell us their EV line has managed to capture a significant
portion of the luxury EV market share; commendable considering
what the competition have as well, but also testimony to the
commitment to quality and well-being that Volvo have and which
is evident in the cars they deliver. The feeling of being safe in
one’s space is unmatched and that is exactly what Volvo have
specialised in over the years.
Like the XC90, XC60, XC40, and even the V90 XC offered
earlier, the C40 Recharge has the sort of aura that makes one feel
damn near invincible. After all, there’s more to life than a Volvo
and that’s precisely why you drive one.

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 51


Seamless
Digital and mechanical join together harmoniously in
the hybrid-heavy new E-Class saloon line-up
Story: Georg Kacher

52 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


FIRST DRIVE Mercedes-Benz E-Class

D
O NOT BE FOOLED BY automatics and all of the initial UK
the wood and leather. market entrants are rear-drive only;
Although those traditional Merc’s 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system
signifiers of class, elegance, could be added later.
luxury, and other prized The car is bigger in every direction
Mercedes values continue to loom large and roomier, apart from the boot, which
in the cabin and although the bodywork is at best the same—the PHEVs eat into
still says E-Class at a glance, there is a carrying capacity; 540 litres for mild
lot that is new and different going on hybrids, 370 for plug-ins.
under the skin. It is a swoopier and more aerodynamic
There is a significantly revised engine shape. The nose has a very S-Class
line-up which, for now, involves all the styling treatment, with its new grille and
engines being mild hybrids or plug-in slimmer LED headlights and tail lights.
hybrids, all with four cylinders. Mercedes are offering wheel sizes from
And there is much more emphasis on 17 to 21 inches and say they are all
the digital: controls, infotainment, aerodynamically optimized. For the same
comfort, and safety all employ a reason, the door-handles are flush fitting
giddying amount of processing power in and the grille is active, closing its slats
the course of making the driver and when the onboard systems decree that
passengers feel relaxed, protected, and cooling air induction is not needed as
that little bit special. much as smoother external air-flow.
Like its direct rival, the BMW 5 Inside, the optional Superscreen is
Series, the new E-Class will also be similar to the Hyperscreen from the
available as an estate, although what we S-Class. It is the most unmissable
are driving here is several versions of the manifestation of the rampant digitization
saloon. And like the BMW, the that has gone on under the skin.
Mercedes is electrified but not fully The new E is marginally longer,
electric; that is the job of the EQE. wider, and roomier than the model it
For now, the range in the United replaces. Cabin and cockpit form a
Kingdom is pretty simple—E 200, E fetching mix of classic Mercedesness
220 d, and E 300 e—all with four and EQE-inspired microchip-powered
cylinders and all either mild hybrids modernity.
(petrol or diesel) or plug-in hybrids. The plug-ins share a 95-kW electric
The range will grow to include a potent motor good for 129 hp and 440 Nm of
E 450 d six-cylinder diesel here and the instant extra torque, a 25.4-kWh battery
more powerful E 400 e PHEV could be which can be fully charged in 30
included at a later date, too. minutes, and a clean-air driving range of
All transmissions are nine-speed at least 96 kilometres. Because of the

I T E M P LOYS A G I D DY I N G A M O U N T O F
PROCESSING POWER TO MAKE DRIVER AND
PA S S E N G E R S F E E L T H AT L I T T L E B I T S P E C I A L

Left: First versions


are all humble
hybridized fours
that do not strain
the chassis

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 53


FIRST DRIVE Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Slicker aero does


not stop it looking
like an E-Class

Voice control is
ace, so you can
ignore the rest

54 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


Serene, safe,
surveilleda Mercedes-Benz E 300 e
Price: Rs £65,000 = Rs 67.27 lakh (estimated)
Powertrain: 1,999 cc 16v four-cylinder plus
25.4-kWh battery, 95-kW e-motor, PHEV,
nine-speed automatic, rear-wheel drive
Performance: 313 hp at 6,100 rpm, 550 Nm at
2,000 rpm, 6.4 seconds 0-100 km/h,
236 km/h
(ȴFLHQF\ 125-200 km/l,
e-range 96-117 km, 12-18 g/km CO2
Weight: 2,135 kg
On sale: Late 2023

the seat. There is the energizing app that


adapts its recommendations based on
data from the smart watch monitoring
your health. As well as various
opportunities for you or your passengers
to engage with Zoom, TikTok, and
Angry Birds, there are some subtle and
rather welcome touches. Best of all is the
individual “welcome” and “goodbye”
lighting which can be complemented by
a bespoke birthday jingle, a recipe, and a
A I D E D B Y A I , I T E A G E R LY L E A R N S Y O U R shopping list.
FAV O U R I T E R O U T I N E S . I T N E V E R F O R G E T S Some features like Digital Light Plus,
T O C A L L H O M E AT 7. 3 0 A M S H A R P O N T H E which projects additional information on
to the road ahead, can be bought over
DRIVE TO WORK the air, others like MBUX Premium
Plus, which switches the
instrumentation to 3D mode, are part of
weight penalty, the lesser dual-heart department. Aided by artificial extra-cost equipment bundles. In total,
variants are barely quicker off the mark intelligence (AI), it eagerly learns your there are 20 AI-operated so-called magic
and not faster overall than the notably favourite routines. On a cold day, for modules available. Add to those the
more affordable bottom-of-the-line instance, the seat heaters come on seven different driver profiles fed by 800
204-hp E 200. The plug-in option works automatically and the ambient lighting different parameters and the computing
well for those who can charge at home or switches from cool blue to a cosy power this car runs on seems eerily
at work. orange-yellow. On the drive to work in overwhelming. The main interactive tool
Precise and progressive, the steering the morning, it never forgets the news is, of course, your own smartphone
and brakes hit the sweet spot with on the hour, calls home at 7.30 am which carries the personalized
aplomb. Grip, traction, and road- sharp so you can blow a kiss to your “Mercedes Me” app.
holding are also in line with daughter before she takes off to school, So, overall, this is generally a
expectations, certainly on dry tarmac and winds down the window at the successful new phase for the E-Class.
and with two out of three vehicles at our security gate which needs a flash of the Design, packaging, quality—all are cent
disposal featuring the superglue badge to open. per cent Benz. The ride and handling are
4MATIC. There is music you can see and feel where they should be, despite the
Cruisers rather than bruisers, these via subtle rhythmical visual impulses electrical assistance and the weight that
cars are not at their very best either and matching mechanical vibrations in comes with the hybrid hardware. The
when forced close to the edge of many extra functions are for the most
adhesion, where ESP intervenes earlier part intuitive and seamless or easily
than expected and the following boost ignored. We hope that UK prices, when
effect takes a moment or two to beat out they are revealed, do not turn out to be
that dent in the torque curve. even higher than feared. But the fact that
Which engine to buy? Refinement there is a new 5 Series should make sure
apart, the entry-level E 200 offers 100 that Merc’s competitive instincts kick in
per cent E-Class at a relatively sensible to everyone’s benefit.
tariff. The plug-in E 300 e makes a lot of The fact that the digital surprise-and-
sense if the necessary charging fits easily delight features are in addition to the
into your life. impressive handling, road-holding,
So far, so predictable. But this car also looks, and quality—rather than instead
has newfound ambitions in the feel-good of—is very welcome.

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 55


Fresh Face, Fresh

56 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


FIRST DRIVE Tata Nexon

I
N 2017, TATA MOTORS LAUNCHED A CAR THAT

Colours
cemented their footing in the modern compact SUV
segment. The Nexon was the only car in its range that had
a coupé-SUV body shape and it gave rise to a lot of
interest among prospective buyers. So much so that it sold
in big numbers, the most recent being five lakh units in
cumulative sales. Of course, being the first Indian car to receive a
full safety rating in GNCAP crash tests only added to its allure.
Six years down the line, Tata have decided to rekindle the flame
with a comprehensive facelift and we went to Jaipur, the Pink
The Tata Nexon has been given a City of Rajasthan, to drive the cars and bring you the essentials.
The most obvious change and one that gave the Nexon a lot of
new lease of life six years after its limelight on social media platforms is the new design. The
launch. We took both petrol and silhouette of the car remains largely unchanged but with
significantly revised front and rear ends. Daytime running lights
diesel variants for a spin in Jaipur (DRL) are separate and also the highest lighting element at the
front of the car and they come to life with a dynamic lighting
Story: Joshua Varghese sequence. Just below them are the reworked grille and the stacked
Photography: Sanjay Raikar headlights and fog-lights in the bumper. Tata claim that the 16-
inch alloys have received some aerodynamic treatment and they
are the most noteworthy new element in an otherwise unchanged
profile. At the rear, changes are evident but not as radical as the
ones at the front. While the shape matches the outgoing model,
the tail-light that runs the width of the boot is both reminiscent of
the Avinya concept and also gives this car its own identity.
It is heartening to see Tata bring some of the elements from
their concepts to life. Furthermore, their choice of colours infuses
a fresh lease of life into a segment that is overloaded with drab
hues. Overall, the new Nexon is sleeker and more modern than
the car it replaces. It is longer (five millimetres short of four
metres), narrower, and taller than the previous generation model.
The sense of familiarity lingered when I opened the door and
vanished just as quickly when I settled into the cabin. A two-
spoke steering wheel in front of me was surprise enough but I was
not expecting an illuminated logo in the middle of it. Where the
instrument cluster should have been was a 10.25-inch console. It
is highly customizable and capable of displaying maps too.
Initially, it struck me as an over-indulgence but when I was using
navigation on the 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen and
flicked the indicator, that display was instantly replaced by the
wing mirror camera’s live feed. Then it made sense to have a
secondary map display in front of the driver. It gets a 360-degree
camera display, too, and it relays a high-definition output; among
the best I have seen in this segment.
Significant tech upgrades have been followed by revamped
upholstery. We only drove the top-end cars and the purple
petrol-DCA (dual-clutch automatic) model’s interior was done up
to match the exterior, supported easily by materials of good quality
along the dashboard and other surfaces. In comparison, the interior
of the top-end diesel-manual appeared bland. Convenience has
also been taken up a notch by providing ventilated seats for the
front row and it begins cooling instantly. Furthermore, Tata have
replaced most of the buttons on the centre console with a
touchscreen unit. The new, sleek layout frees up a lot of room and
also adds to the cabin’s premium appeal. Storage spaces and access
to said spaces has been revised but some things, including the
placement of the mirror adjuster, could have been improved.
A good driving position is easy to find in the petrol-DCA
Nexon but the placement and angle of the clutch pedal in the
diesel car needs getting used to. Space in the front row is
generous and the seats are comfortable, too, but the same

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 57


FIRST DRIVE Tata Nexon
cannot be said for the second row, at least for tall passengers. six-speed manual transmission or six-speed automated manual
The sloping roof-line limits head-room and leg-room is just transmission (AMT), the petrol model has something new. The
about enough as well but the boot space has increased by a 1.2-litre, three-cylinder, turbo-petrol engine produces the same
small margin. 120 hp at 5,500 rpm and 170 Nm between 1,750 and 4,000 rpm.
That about sums up the changes in the new Nexon because Transmission choices on offer include the six-speed manual and
almost no revisions have been made to the engine and chassis. six-speed AMT but now it is also offered with a seven-speed
I said “almost” because while the 1.5-litre, four-cylinder, turbo- dual-clutch automatic. Both AMT and DCA variants also get a
diesel engine develops 115 hp at 3,750 rpm and 260 Nm between new gear-knob and paddle-shifters.
1,500 and 2,750 rpm and is offered with a choice of the same The diesel engine itself is quite alright. The torque is available
from 1,500 rpm onwards and in most cases one is hardly
inconvenienced. While ascending the hill towards Nahargarh
Fort, whenever I had to slow down due to traffic, a quick overtake
in second gear was difficult. Otherwise, the diesel-manual
combination performed well. Considering the segment it is
contesting in, I expected Tata to improve the refinement of the
engine and cabin but those levels remain the same. The gear-
shifts could have been better too.
The petrol-DCA is another story entirely. For a three-cylinder,
the Revotron engine performs well and builds up power quickly. I
would not describe it as sporty but the way it rushes through the
revs is exciting and that thrill is complemented by the
transmission. The shifts are not instant but quick enough to have
a fun time with the paddle-shifters and my initial impression is
that this is what the Nexon should always have had.
The suspension department remains unchanged as do the
Tata Nexon Revotron DCA Fearless
Price: Rs 13.70 lakh (ex-showroom)
Engine: 1,199 cc, in-line three, turbo-petrol
Max Power: 120 hp at 5,500 rpm
Max Torque: 170 Nm at 1,750-4,000 rpm
Transmission: Seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic,
front-wheel drive
Suspension: MacPherson strut front, torsion beam rear
OV E R A LL , TH E N E W N E XO N I S Weight: NA

SLEEKER AND MORE MODERN


THAN TH E C AR IT RE PL ACES
3

5 4

1 1 Sunroof is available on top-end


variants
2 The bold colour scheme makes the
cabin’s features stand out; note the
illuminated two-spoke steering wheel
3 Lower centre console layout is clutter-
free in the DCA variant; decent amount
of storage spaces, too
4 Purple-black combination works for
the seats; helps that they are plush
and ventilated
5 Paddle-shifters are among the
highlights of the DCA variant

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 59


FIRST DRIVE Tata Nexon
brakes. The former never needed any help anyway. The steering
feel is neutral and allows one to control the car confidently and
the set-up keeps it planted around corners at good pace. The
petrol DCA Nexon felt the most involving to drive because it
came close to utilising the potential of the chassis. In fact, after a
spirited drive across some tight switchbacks and empty highways,
I would even say that this configuration of the car could be more
rewarding to drive with a more powerful engine. Ride quality is
slightly on the stiffer side but the damping ensures most of the
harshness is dissipated before it reaches the cabin.
Tata’s commitment to safety continues and they have equipped
the car with as many as six airbags and, given that they were able
to get a five-star rating for the previous model, we expect them to
do well in Bharat NCAP also. The brakes do a fine job of slowing
the car down but I feel Tata could have used this opportunity to
equip the Nexon with disc brakes all around.
Above: Tail-lights The pricing is rather competitive, too. Tata have priced the
now run the width Nexon at Rs 13.70 lakh for the top-spec petrol-DCA and at Rs
of the car 14.30 lakh for the diesel-AMT. Tata have got a lot of things right
Left: DRLs are with the new petrol Nexon (particularly, the DCA variant) and
dynamic while
headlights are
the diesel-AMT could be tempting too. There are things that
relocated to the could benefit from improvement but, ultimately, the success of
bumper the new Nexon will boil down to the pricing. As it always was,
the Nexon continues to be a car that meets the needs of a small
family. Now it looks more modern than ever while doing so.

Tata Nexon Revotorq Fearless A S I T A LW AY S W A S , T H E N E X O N


Price: Rs 13.80 lakh (ex-showroom)
Engine: 1,497 cc, in-line four, turbo-diesel
C O N T I N U E S T O B E A C A R T H AT M E E T S
Max Power: 115 hp at 3,750 rpm T H E N E E D S O F A S M A L L FA M I LY.
Max Torque: 260 Nm at 1,500-2,750 rpm
Transmission: Six-speed, manual,
NOW IT LOOKS MORE MODERN THAN
front-wheel drive EVER WHILE DOING SO
Suspension: MacPherson strut front,
torsion beam rear
Weight: NA

60 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


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FIRST DRIVE: EL & EV


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FIRST DRIVE Rolls-Royce Black Badge Cullinan

GOODWOOD’S GTI
The Cullinan’s sportier alter ego, for those
who hate to say ‘when’
Story: Jake Groves

62 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 63
FIRST DRIVE Rolls-Royce Black Badge Cullinan

W
HO WOULD HAVE
thought Rolls-Royce
would have their own
version of GTI, RS or
Type R? Of course, I
am being a smidgeon reductive, but the
Black Badge variants echo the cars made
by proper performance divisions: a boost
in power, chassis tweaks, sportier
detailing (including carbon-fibre trim
inside), and a more youthful image. It
works: the average Black Badge buyer is
younger than someone buying a Mini
these days.
The Cullinan Black Badge is an
imperious machine and one that you just
sink into. Its attractions include very fine
leather, some wonderfully supportive
seats, and the minimizing of anything
likely to cause any sort of stress or strain.
You do not have to exert yourself or make
an effort to close the doors, for instance,
beyond pressing a button.
There is only so much the engineers can
do to make a 2.7-tonne SUV “dynamic”,
though. The 29-hp and 50-Nm boost over Above: Bespoke Below: The Spirit of
the regular Cullinan, achieved by modest cabin reflects the Ecstasy, too, takes a
Black Badge aura darker form
tweaks to the same 6.75-litre turbocharged
V12 petrol engine, is negligible when
applied to something that feels as if it has
its own gravitational pull. The beefier
brakes (with re-designed ventilation for
better cooling) could be beefier still, if you
are going to make use of that extra grunt.
Even with Black Badge tuning of the
throttle response, brake pedal action, and
rear-wheel steering, it is still an
immensely heavy SUV.
But like any Cullinan, the Black Badge
is a lesson in ultimate refinement that
even the latest Range Rover can only Rolls-Royce
dream of. The V12, for example, is near- Black Badge Cullinan
silent on the move (unless you poke it, Price: From £350,000 (Rs 3.62 crore)
prompting a tuneful tenor note from the Powertrain: 6,749 cc 48v twin-turbo V12,
Black Badge-specific exhaust) and the eight-speed auto, all-wheel drive
rolling ride comfort is almost unparalleled. Performance: 600 hp at 5,250 rpm, 900 Nm
Almost, the air suspension and big wheels at 1,750 rpm, 5.2 seconds 0-100 km/h,
250 km/h (limited)
do struggle to eliminate all low-speed
Efficiency: 6.0 km/l, 377 g/km CO2
bumps and if you throw it into a corner at
Weight: 2,690 kg
an awkward angle, it will briefly jiggle like
On Sale: Now
a recently sat on water bed.
If you are wealthy enough to have your
own driver (we are pretty sure you would cars are the same. Specify the “event”
be, at this price), then the rear is one hell seating and you even have your own in-
of a luxurious place in which to spend built pair of chairs that pop out of the
your time. Massaging armchairs, a digital tailgate so you can get a prime spot at a
television tuner, and your own champagne polo tournament.
fridge ready for when you need to toast Therein lies the crux. Black Badge or
your latest successful business deal… it is not, the Cullinan remains the ultimate
utterly gorgeous and infinitely do-anything Rolls-Royce. Quick enough
customizable; Rolls say no two of their for keeping up with sports cars on most

64 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


Left: Closing that journeys, plush enough to be used as an
door requires zero
effort
exclusive limousine for that glitzy
awards do, and capable of tackling the
rougher terrain some hobbies demand
and being completely unfazed while
doing it all in style.
The Black Badge Cullinan’s upgrades
make it a little more fidgety on the road
and it is no quicker on paper than a
regular one. But if you have the budget
and you are comfortable with spending it
Below: Dark chrome
and bespoke
on a big and heavy SUV, then it makes
wheels are Black sense to go that little bit further and get
Badge specialities the most special version.

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A LESSON IN REFINEMENT

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 65


FIRST DRIVE Tata Nexon.EV

66 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


Substantial
Upgrade
The Nexon.EV has received a host of
upgrades to enhance its appeal. We got to
spend a few hours behind the wheel of this
electric vehicle (EV) on the streets of Pune
Story: Azaman Chothia Photography: Sanjay Raikar

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 67


FIRST DRIVE Tata Nexon.EV

T
HE TATA NEXON.EV HAS BEEN A POPULAR
EV in the compact SUV segment. For 2023, Tata
Motors have made some styling improvements,
improved the motor, and decked the car with a lot of
new features. So, this is not just a minor update but a
big step over the previous generation model.
Starting off with the facelift design, Tata have surely done a great
MRE)URPWKHVLGHSURoOHWKHFDUKDVWKHVDPHVLOKRXHWWHEXWLWQRZ
gets sleek LED lighting: at the front, an LED light strip runs across
the bumper, connecting the DRL, and the rear also gets triangular
units with a strip running through. This, along with a re-designed
bumper with aero inserts and a slightly re-designed grille,
differentiates the EV from the internal combustion engine (ICE)
model. Apart from these, the 16-inch alloy wheels remain the same
as the ones we see on the updated ICE model. When you start up
the car, the LED welcome you with a start-up sequence and,
overall, the car now looks pretty futuristic and does get a lot of heads
turning in the city. Above: “Gen 2
Tata Motors call the new motor the “Gen 2 motor” which has a motor” puts out
106.4 kW (145 hp)
smaller packaging and is said to be around 20 kilograms lighter and 215 Nm
than before. It is now capable of spinning up to 16,000 Left: Convenient
revolutions per minute (rpm). There are two variants, Long way to toggle
Range (LR) and Medium Range (MR), which deliver through the drive
approximately 465 kilometres and 325 km of range respectively modes
(range as per ARAI). The LR variant makes use of a 40.5-kWh Below right:
Interior is a big step
battery pack while the MR makes use of a 30-kWh battery pack. forward over the
The top-spec LR variant that we have for this review has a previous-gen model
claimed 0-100 sprint time of 8.9 seconds and can attain a top

68 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 69
Tata Nexon.EV LR Empowered+
Price: Rs 19.94 lakh (ex-showroom)
Battery Pack: Lithium-ion, 40.5 kWh
Electric Motor: Permanent-magnet,
synchronous motor, 106.4 kW
Max Power: 145 hp
Max Torque: 215 Nm
Transmission: Single-speed, automatic,
front-wheel drive
Suspension: MacPherson strut front,
twist beam with dual path strut
Weight: 1,400 kg (estimated)

70 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


FIRST DRIVE Tata Nexon.EV
speed of 150 km/h. This variant is said to put out 145 hp and 215 Nm
of peak torque.
As I began to drive the car, I did appreciate the calibration of how
power is delivered. The car feels extremely smooth and the steering is
UHDOO\OLJKWZKLFKPDNHVLWHIIRUWOHVVWRJHWSDVWWUDIoFLQWKHFLW\7KH
three drive modes can be quickly switched by turning the knob selector
and each mode really comes into use with constant change in driving
FRQGLWLRQV,QVWRSDQGJRWUDIoF,VZLWFKHGWR(FRPRGHDQGLWZDV
smooth sailing until I got past the congestion and quickly switched to
City mode where it is easier to make overtakes and zip away. City mode
is more than ample for daily driving and, ideally, a driver should be able
to get through three days of daily commuting before charging up the
car. This is considering an average individual would be doing
approximately 35 to 40 km per day. Another thing that made the drive
experience engaging was the addition of paddle-shifters that can be
used to toggle through the four levels of regen. The regenerative
braking works really well in the city to enhance range and, in the
highest mode, reduce the need for a driver to keep getting on the brake
Above: The rear seats are fine pedal. Compared to the previous model, the regeneration is said to have
for shorter individuals; taller
people will be slightly cramped increased by 10 to 15 per cent.
Right: The 16-inch alloy wheels The suspension set-up is on the slightly stiffer side, so driving
have a futuristic design quickly through bad sections of the road is not a very pleasant
to go with the new design experience; you do feel the thuds. However, the car does get into its
language element over smooth roads and also corners really well. The brakes have
a good bite and get the car to stop in a precise manner.
On the interior front, the new seats are very comfortable; the rear
VHDWVDUHoQHIRUVKRUWHULQGLYLGXDOVEXWWDOOHUSDVVHQJHUVZLOOIHHODOLWWOH
cramped. The main upgrade comes in the form of a new 12.3-inch
screen in the centre which is larger than the ICE model’s and this is
mated to the 10.25-inch dashboard. Just like the updated ICE model,
this also gets a new steering wheel with the illuminated Tata logo at its
centre. Under the central screen are capacitive touch buttons for all the
different controls which work pretty well. To make things easier while
on the go, the a-c controls are still switches which will eliminate
distracting the driver. The centre console has a lot of new functions and
Tata seem to have thought of adding every tech feature to enhance the
appeal of this EV.
:KDW,UHDOO\DSSUHFLDWHGDWoUVWZDVWKHGHJUHHFDPHUDWKDWFDQ
be toggled through the centre screen. As an indicator is turned on, the
screen will display the blind spot on the side of the car to preclude
collisions. Then we have the new JBL sound system that has good
quality and also can be customized personally or with pre-set modes in a
lot of ways through the centre screen. Finally, one of the main updates is
what Tata call Arcade.EV. This will allow a user to connect to their
IDYRXULWHVWUHDPLQJVHUYLFHVVXFKDV<RX7XEH1HWpL['LVQH\+RWVWDU
Amazon Prime, etc. Apart from this, even a couple of games can be
downloaded. The idea is to keep the driver entertained while they wait
for their car to get charged up. While some fellow journalists did have
glitches with the centre screen, the unit in my car was working
seamlessly. It is worth noting that the touch sensitivity is good and there
is no lag while scrolling through menus. To reduce range anxiety, the car
now supports Vehicle to Vehicle (V2V) charging, so another Nexon.EV
or an EV that is compatible can be charged up using the car itself.
In conclusion, Tata have done a really good job with the new Nexon.
EV and I was quite impressed after my time spent with the car. It
proves to be a great car to drive around the city and, with all these
added tech features, it is sure to appeal to many more customers.
We will soon test the car in a more detailed road test where we can
experience its performance on the highway, zip through some twisties,
properly test the charging times, and also give you a more
comprehensive review of the slew of features that it now offers.

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 71


Steampunk
Goes Electric
Cult German sports car-maker is
returning with an electric roadster
Story: Colin Overland

72 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


FIRST DRIVE :LHVPDQQɢXQGHUEDOO
Still looks retro—it just
makes less noise

J
UST HOW GOOD IS THE Classic appeal;
Wiesmann Thunderball seating is low and
prototype? Put it this way. I well back
warmed up for my drive in the
electric two-seat roadster by
driving one of the tiny
German specialist’s previous
models, an MF5, which uses
one of the best engines ever
made: BMW’s 555-hp twin-
turbo V8. And even with the bar being set
so high, the electric Thunderball proved
to be engaging and exhilarating.
Billed as the world’s first luxury electric
roadster, it is a modern take on the classic
formula: you sit low and well back, with
the wind in your hair and a smile on your
face as you revel in the directness of the
steering and the immediacy of the throttle
response, with 500 kW (680 hp) and 1,100
Nm going through the rear wheels, aided

74 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


FIRST DRIVE :LHVPDQQɢXQGHUEDOO

BMW Z3 M Roadster.
In classic Wiesmann style, there are
seven analogue dials at the centre of the
dash, here giving EV-relevant information
about the state of charge, energy use, and
Above: Immaculate steering wheel adding more regen to slow diff temperature. Ahead of you is a simple
craft and attention
to detail
you down and the left paddle giving less digital screen that is focused on the
regen. Sounds odd, but works really well. information you need to see while driving.
Above Right:
Sporty pedals with With the manual fabric roof folded The bulbous bonnet is front-hinged,
the hallmark gecko down and the windows open, you get a clamshell style. The design will not
decent amount of wind noise, which can change before the car goes into
help you forget there is no engine. A rising production; all that remains to be done is
whine from the e-motors becomes part of more hot- and cold-weather durability
the multi-sensory driving experience. testing and making sure details such as
This is very much a road-going GT, the airbags are fully compliant.
with no ambitions to join the likes of In just over a year, if all goes according
Pininfarina, Lotus, and Rimac in the to plan, working with development
electric hypercar stakes. It is more akin to partner Roding, Wiesmann could be
a Porsche Boxster, Chevrolet Corvette or making 400 cars a year, in left- and right-
hand drive, available globally, starting
around €300k (Rs 3.10 crore).
THE STEERING WHEEL SLIPS The company has had various ups and
downs, but is now run by London-based
THROUGH MY HANDS WITH Roheen Berry, a hugely successful
$+8/$ˠ+223)/8,',7< businessman and also a passionate
Wiesmann enthusiast. And it shows.

by a mechanical limited-slip differential.


There is double-wishbone front Wiesmann Thunderball
suspension, multi-link rear. Price: €300,000 (estimated) (Rs 3.1 crore)
It is not even too heavy, thanks to the Powertrain: 83-kWh (net) battery,
twin e-motors, rear-wheel drive
extensive use of carbon-fibre. The weight Performance: 680 hp, 1,100 Nm, 2.9 seconds 0-100 km/h (estimated)
distribution is close to the classic 50:50 Efficiency: 4.88 km/kWh, 500-km range (estimated)
front-rear and the centre of gravity is low Weight: 1,770 kg (estimated)
despite not being a skateboard-style On Sale: First deliveries in 2024
chassis, which would position the seats
too high. The battery, with a net capacity
of 83 kWh, is in a T-formation, in the
nose and transmission tunnel. Claimed
efficiency is about five kilometres per
kWh, good for a range of 500 km.
There are two electric motors, both at
the back, and a single-speed transmission.
But the Thunderball avoids the typical
EV lack of driver engagement by having a
five-step brake-regen system that you can,
up to a point, use a bit like a five-speed
gearbox, with the right paddle behind the
COMPARO Corvette Z06 v 911 GT3 RS

76 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


TH IS IS
NOT A
DRI LL
For the first time ever, the hot version of the
definitive US sports car seriously could beat the
range-topping 911. But will it?
Story: Ben Barry Photography: Olgun Kordal

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 77


I
COMPARO Corvette Z06 v 911 GT3 RS
F THE BACK STORY TO THE PORSCHE 911 A plaque says this one has been hand-assembled by (spits out
GT3 RS tested here is unfamiliar, then I hope you are chewing tobacco, adjusts cap, leans in to double-check) Jennifer
HQMR\LQJ\RXUoUVWLVVXHRIRXUPDJD]LQH%XWWKH &OLQHLQ%RZOLQJ*UHHQ.HQWXFN\
Corvette Z06? Even most long-time (British) Fire it up and, oh… rather than the ripped muscle of the old
subscribers will have big gaps in their knowledge; VXSHUFKDUJHGSXVKURG/7DJUXIIUHVRQDQFHWKDW\RXFRXOG
SUHYLRXVJHQHUDWLRQVZHUHOHIWKDQGGULYHDIWHUDOO PLVWDNHIRUDIRXUF\OLQGHUXQLWSHUPHDWHVWKHFDELQDQGGHoQHV
7KHWZRKDYHPRUHLQFRPPRQWKDQoUVW PXFKRIWKH= VFKDUDFWHUDWORZWRPLGUSP
LPSUHVVLRQVXJJHVWV%RWK56DQG=ZHUHERUQ Nor is this double overhead camshaft unit particularly muscular
from motor sport, celebrate big anniversaries in 2023, DWDFUXLVH1PRIWRUTXHLV1PGRZQRQLWV
DQGDUHQRZPRUHWHFKQLFDOO\FRPSDUDEOHWKDQHYHU SUHGHFHVVRU VEXWLWLVVHUYHGZD\KLJKHUDWUSPDV
Besides, the new eighth-generation C8 Z06 is FRPSDUHGWRWKHSUHYLRXVUSP3XOOLQJKLJKJHDUVDW
RIoFLDOO\8.ERXQGLQULJKWKDQGGULYH PRWRUZD\VSHHGVLWLVQDUFROHSWLF
3ULFHVDUHVWLOOWREHFRQoUPHGEXWWKH= V 3DWLHQFHSDWLHQFH7KDWpDWSODQHFUDQNVKDIWFRQVSLUHVZLWK
 5VODNK GRPHVWLFUHWDLOSULFHFRXOG heavily over-square cylinders to let the Z06 rip to 8,600 rpm, while
HDVLO\EDOORRQWRDURXQGdN 5VFURUH IRU 680 hp is not just 20 hp up on the previous Z06, it makes the LT6
British buyers, though even that represents a big WKHPRVWSRWHQWQDWXUDOO\DVSLUDWHGSURGXFWLRQ9HYHU
VDYLQJRYHUD*756 d 5VFURUH  7KH 9HWWHGRHVQRWTXLWHKDQJWRJHWKHUZKHQ,oUVWGULYHLW
The Corvette might be from over the pond, but it These roads run high through the Brecon Beacons and right now
LVQRILVKRXWRIZDWHU7KUHDGLQJRYHU:HOVKPLQRU WKH\DUHVOLFNZLWKGUL]]OHSOXVRXUFDUKDVJRWWKH LQRWKHU
roads—crumbly cambered edges, encroaching circumstances highly desirable) Z07 upgrade, which garnishes the
bracken and sheep, more traffic than we hoped—the Z06 seems 9HWWHZLWKVXLWDEO\UDF\DGGLWLRQV
relatively compact and easy to place considering it is not that Every lip to a gravel car park threatens to destroy the Z07-
small and quickly builds confidence with its (mostly) fluid VSHFLoFFDUERQVSOLWWHU WKLVFDUUHDOO\QHHGVWKHRSWLRQDOQRVHOLIW 
VWHHULQJDQGULGH but Cup 2 R tyres are the bigger concern, with huge outer
Limit handling is shot through with surprising finesse, but VKRXOGHUVWKDWKDYHWUHDGOLNHDQHZERUQSLJOHWKDVKDLU$VZHOODV
WKHUHLVEDQGZLGWKWRDFHORQJKDXOVWRR2XUGHSXW\HGLWRUMXVW the tyres and aerodynamic changes, the Z07 package also brings
drove this left-hooker from Germany, noting: ‘Tour mode is XSUDWHGVXVSHQVLRQDQGFDUERQFHUDPLF%UHPERURWRUV2XUWHVW
surprisingly comfortable, with decent flex in the suspension to FDUDOVRKDVFDUERQoEUHZKHHOVWKDWVDYHDKXJHNLORJUDPVRI
PDNHDORQJVWLQWEHDUDEOH XQVSUXQJPDVV
Nicely placed pedals mean he has not been twisting his right leg
at awkward angles and the two-seat cabin is so spacious, I suppose
\RXZRXOGKDYHWREHRYHU yWDOOWRoQGLWDQ\WKLQJRWKHUWKDQ
URRP\‹DQGWKDWLVZLWKDGULYHU VVHDWWKDWFRXOGDQGVKRXOGGURS
PXFKORZHU*HQHURXVOXJJDJHVSDFHDQGWKLVFRQYHUWLEOH VWDUJD
URRIPDNHLWPRUHYHUVDWLOHWKDQWKHWRR
Now a model in its own right, the Z06 name dates to an option
SDFNLQWURGXFHG\HDUVDJRIRUVHFRQGJHQHUDWLRQ&RUYHWWHV86
car-makers had an agreement at that time that factory teams would
not race, so the Z06 gave privateers a kind of under-the-counter
workaround that included stiffer springs, uprated brakes, a bigger
IXHOWDQNDQGDVPDOOEORFN9SXVKLQJRXWKS
RS was neither option pack nor race car in a brown bag, but
Porsche effectively worked the same magic when they took a RS aero puts
6DQGFUDQNHGXSWKHZLFNIRUPRWRUVSRUWFUHDWLQJWKH Z06 downforce
in the shade
56LQ
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WKLQJVWRWKH&RUYHWWH&5DQG565FRQWHVWLQJWKH:RUOG
(QGXUDQFH&KDPSLRQVKLS V*7(FODVV :KHQPRUHDIIRUGDEOH
GT3 machinery replaces GTE next season, the gap will be closer
VWLOO
Just sitting inside reveals the C8 to be a very different Corvette:
the bonnet plunges low between wheel-arches cranked like spider
OHJVZLGHKDXQFKHVZLWKKXJHLQOHWVIRUUDGLDWRUVoOOWKHVLGH
PLUURUVZKLOHD9HQJLQHOXUNVORZLQWKHUHDUYLHZ
All Corvettes are now based on a new all-aluminium, mid-
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ELJJHUEUDNHVDQGVKRUWHUoQDOGULYHWKHUHLVDQDOOQHZDQG
IDUPRUHVRSKLVWLFDWHGOLWUH/7HQJLQHWRR5HDVRQVWREH
FKHHUIXOLQFOXGHQDWXUDODVSLUDWLRQVN\KLJKFRPSUHVVLRQ
DQG‹PRVWVLJQLoFDQWRIDOO‹DpDWSODQHFUDQNVKDIWOLNH0F/DUHQ
DQG)HUUDUL9V

78 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


Corvette actually more
powerful than the
Porsche, but heavier too

THE Z06’S IS THE MOST POTENT


N AT U R A L LY A S P I R AT E D
PRODUC TI ON V8 EVE R

Now firmly in the


21st century, but
’Vette cannot match
911 cabin

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 79


Why wait for the
apocalypse? Start
your own with the
RS and Z06

THE Z06’S CUP TYRES


H AV E S H O U L D E R S W I T H
TREAD LIKE A NEWBORN
PIGLET HAS HAIR
COMPARO Corvette Z06 v 911 GT3 RS
Perhaps, I am white-knuckling the wheel, but as I navigate blind Because there is a dearth of torque, a mid-mounted engine and
WXUQVDQGFUHVWVWKH=LVDVPLGJHELQDU\VQLIoQJDURXQGRYHU compliant damping matched with near-slick road-legal tyres, you
the wet surface, demanding I bung in lock when instinct says go can just monster the (very looong travel) accelerator, knowing the
JHQWOHU,WGRHVQRWIHHOPDVVLYHO\TXLFNWKHHQJLQHVWLOOLVQRW FKDVVLVKDVLWFRYHUHGDQG\RXFDQEHDWWKH3RUVFKH VVHFRQG
singing in the meat of the mid-range, DCT gear-shifts are effective NPKWLPH(YHQIXOO\HQJDJHGWUDFWLRQFRQWUROVWLOOJLYHVPH
if a little bland… HQRXJKURSH0\H\HVGRQRWOHDYHWKHURDGIRUDVSOLWVHFRQG
$WOHDVWWKHVWHHULQJLVSXQFK\RIIFHQWUHDQGFRPELQHVpXLGLW\ 7UDPOLQLQJUHPDLQVDPLQRUGLVWUDFWLRQEXWWKHPRUHFRQoGHQW,
moderate weight and feedback to settle nerves, and the damping am to hustle, the more casually I steer, the more it fades into the
has a robust sort of compliance, supporting the body in EDFNJURXQG3OXV\RXFDQUROOVRPXFKVSHHGLQWRGRZQKLOO
FRPSUHVVLRQVWKDWZRXOGNDUDWHFKRSWKHVXPSVIURPVRPHFDUV corners, I swear I will be ejected through a side window before
Shame there is so much secondary patter on trickier surfaces; it WKHVH&XS5VOHWJR‹LWIHHOVZLGHORZHOERZVRXW
would be interesting to drive on the same roads with the heavier This is a beautifully balanced package with nicely rounded edges
VWRFNULPV when you prod curiously at the limits and mighty carbon-ceramic
7RXU6SRUWDQG7UDFNPRGHVKHOSoQHWXQHWKHG\QDPLFVEXW brakes with more friction than a Parisian banlieue-HH]WKH\DUH
\RXFDQSLFN Q PL[EUDNHSHGDOUHVSRQVHDQGVKRFNVPHOORZHGRII QRLV\%XWWKHUHLVOLWWOHHOVHWRFRPSODLQDERXW,WLVYHU\KDUGWR
in Tour, a little extra steering heft in Sport, and the V8 and dual- imagine how the even hotter ZR1 version that is expected as a 2025
FOXWFK ER[SHUNHGULJKWXSLQ7UDFNGRHVLWIRUPH6WRUHGLQ= PRGHOLQWKH8QLWHG6WDWHVZLOOEHEHWWHUWKDQWKLVDWOHDVWDVDURDG
mode, it is easily accessed on the oddly shaped if nice-to-grip FDU$QGEHIRUHWKHQWKH&RUYHWWHUDQJHZLOOEHMRLQHGE\DQ
VWHHULQJZKHHO XQSUHFHGHQWHGQHZFRPHUWKHDOOZKHHOGULYHK\EULG(5D\
)LQDOO\WKHURDGIXOO\GULHVDQG{RKP\$WIXOOFKDWWKH/7 Lesser drawbacks of the Z06 include squeaks from the cockpit,
GRHVQRWKDYHWKHSDUS\SRPSRIWKH)HUUDULWKDWVRFOHDUO\ FRPELQLQJLQGLVKDUPRQ\ZLWKWKHVHFRQGDU\ZKHHOSDWWHU7KH
LQVSLUHGLWEXWLWZDNHVXSDWUSPDQGWKHUXQIURP indicator stalks look and feel like cheap parts-bin afterthoughts and
rpm to the mid-eights is a blur of speed, synaptic response, and WKH\UDWKHUXQGRWKHFODVVLQHVVEURXJKWE\WKHFDUERQoEUHJHDU
high-pitched histrionics that is more scalded cat than old-school VKLIWSDGGOHV$QGIRUPHWKHFDU VRYHUDOOORRNVGRQRWTXLWHJHO
&RUYHWWH*HDUVKLIWVVLPXOWDQHRXVO\VQDSDOLYHTXLFNRQWKH I see Ferrari, I see Lamborghini, I see pleasing mid-engined
XSVKLIWVGRXEOHWLPHRQWKHZD\EDFNGRZQWKH ER[ proportions when I stand in the right place, but I also see the

A de-cluttered Those brakes


RS is on its way. need a lot of
You shrinking cooling or you are
violet, you doing it wrong

d
PRE- FLIGHT BRIEFING I CHE V ROLE T COR V E T TE Z0 6
Why is it here? the 911’s £192,600 (Rs 1.99 crore); Sad that Ferrari phased out the
We have driven the new how much less will become clear 458 engine? Meet your substitute.
mid-engined Corvette before, when the Z06 goes on sale in the
but never in Z06 spec, a suffix UK in the next few months. Which version is this?
synonymous with Corvette Our Z06 has a few desirable
motor sport since 1963 and Any clever stuff? extras, notably the Z07 pack with
currently Corvette’s most The base Stingray uses a 6.2-litre carbon-fibre aero package, FE7
potent C8. LT2 V8, but the Z06 gets the suspension, carbon-ceramic
It is not unusual for a clean-sheet 5.5-litre LT6; with 680 brakes, and optional carbon-
mid-engined exotic to produce hp, it is the most powerful forged aluminium pistons, forged fibre wheels. It also has a
more power than a 911 GT3 RS, naturally aspirated production V8 titanium connecting rods, quad “hardtop convertible” roof that
but the Corvette is unusual in ever. The hand-assembled unit cams, and a flat-plane crankshaft lifts out if you unclip three
costing substantially less than also gets an aluminium block, that helps it spin to 8,600 rpm. latches.

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 81


Want a less in-
yer-face 911?
You have plenty
of choices

Recognisably a
Corvette, but
dominated by mid-
engined proportions

82 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


COMPARO Corvette Z06 v 911 GT3 RS

MIGHT ALL THE SERIOUSNESS OF RS wing’s main blade


T H E R S T R E AT M E N T A C T U A L LY is fixed; smaller
element can move
DETR ACT FROM TH E DRIVE?

k/RRQH\7XQHVyGUXQNVWRUN7KHROGIURQWHQJLQHG=ORRNVZD\
EHWWHU,0+2
Then again, while we are criticising styling, who would pick a
992 GT3 RS for its aesthetics? This feistiest of all 911s looks like it
should be in parc fermé, not Powys, and I am not the only one torn
EHWZHHQVHOIFRQVFLRXVQHVVDQGH[FLWHPHQWDKHDGRIP\GULYH
%XWZLWKLWVZLOGZLQJVDQGYHQWVDUDGLDWRUoOOLQJZKDWXVHGWR
be a boot, and even specially contoured double-wishbone front
suspension, the RS generates a claimed 860 kilograms of
GRZQIRUFHDWNPKGRXEOHWKHODVW*756 DQGDCSDK WRWKH
&RUYHWWH VNLORVDWNPK.LORVPLJKWQRWKDYHWKHSXE
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Everything else is evolutionary versus the current GT3; the
OLWUHQDWXUDOO\DVSLUDWHGpDWVL[LVEXPSHGKSWRKS
WKDQNVPRVWO\WRKRWWHUFDPVWKHoQDOGULYHLVVKRUWHUDQGERWK
stopping power (larger pistons, thicker discs) and chassis (29
PLOOLPHWUHVZLGHUWUDFNDWWKHIURQWVWLIIHUUHDUVSULQJV LVXSUDWHG
Rotary controls on the steering wheel also let you independently
oQHWXQHGDPSHUFRPSUHVVLRQDQGUHERXQGIURQWWRUHDUZKLOH
RWKHUVWZHDNWUDFWLRQVWDELOLW\DQGGLIIVHWWLQJV
*OD]HGH[SUHVVLRQIURPPDQLQSXE{EXWIXVHLWDOOWRJHWKHUZLWK
that aero, pop all the brave pills, and the GT3 RS can lap the What goes around
1ÉUEXUJULQJLQVL[PLQXWHVDQGVHFRQGVVF\WKLQJ comes around: a
VHFRQGVIURPLWV*7VLEOLQJ VDOUHDG\UDSLGODS proper steering wheel
2XUWHVWFDULVPRUH 5LQJUHDG\VWLOOHTXLSSHGZLWKWKH‹KRZ
PXFK"‹d 5VODNK :HLVVDFKSDFNWKDWODYLVKHV
HYHU\WKLQJIURPURRIWRUROOFDJHWRDQWLUROOEDUVLQFDUERQoEUH I can even see out of the rear window, if only because the
0\ZRUU\LVMXVWKRZPXFKRIWKLVFDQEHHQMR\DEO\WDSSHGRQ spoiler is actually higher than the roof, as if I am Richard Petty
the road versus a vanilla GT3 and if the seriousness of it all might DQGWKLVKHUHLVD3O\PRXWK5RDG5XQQHUIURP1$6&$5
DFWXDOO\GHWUDFWIURPWKHGULYH Purposeful, then, but I do not actually feel like I am strapped in
And yet when I drop—and you do positively freefall—into the VRPHEUXWDOLVWUDFHFDU
56 IDUPRUHVXSSRUWLYHVSRUWVVHDWV,H[KDOHOLNH,DPVHWWOLQJLQWR Smaller, narrower, and torsionally stiffer (at least in feel) than the
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smell is immediately evocative of Stuttgart (someone says FUDQNWKHXOWUDSUHFLVHVWHHULQJ7KH56VHHPVQRWWRVRPXFKWXUQ
FDQQDELV ,ZRXOGNQRZZKHUH,ZDVEOLQGIROGHG as bend itself through slow- to mid-speed corners; the rear-wheel

d
PRE- FLIGHT BRIEFING I P ORS CHE 911 G T 3 RS
Why is it here? A unique front wing design Which version is this?
It is Porsche’s most hardcore features air vents to release This RS gets the £29,600 (Rs 30.63
model and latest in an RS legacy pressure above the front wheel lakh) Weissach package, with the
dating back 50 years. and a brutal cutaway behind the bonnet and roof in carbon weave
front tyre that even necessitates (rather than CFRP), a half roll-cage
Any clever stuff? a new CFRP door skin. in CFRP rather than steel to save
The aerodynamics are A rear wing peaks higher than six kilos and the anti-roll bars,
something else. It starts with a the GT3 RS’ roof-line and rear coupling rods, and rear shear
single central radiator in the features a DRS drag-reduction panel all in CFRP too. Carbon-
nose (rather than a 911’s normal setting. Porsche claim peak rebound settings as well as ceramic brakes (£7,473 = Rs 7.73
three) that takes up the entire downforce of 860 kg. differential and traction/stability lakh) and a front-axle lift (£2,546 =
under-bonnet area, leaving Other neat tricks include control parameters that you can Rs 2.64 lakh) are the other
space either side for active aero. suspension compression and adjust on the fly. big-ticket items.

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 83


7+(56,6127620(21(ˠ
D I M E N S I O N A L G R I P M O N S T E R T H AT
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All this makes the most hardcore of 911s approachable and
engaging when I am just stroking over this incredible landscape—
astonishing given the RS is all about clawing extra tenths out of an
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rotary dials to adjust stiffness, James Dennison shares a cheat:
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WKDQDUHJXODU*7DQGFHUWDLQO\WKHODVW*756
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bigger than washboard bumps that would kick some hard-charging track cars
the Porsche, LQWRWKHYDOOH\EHORZ7KH&RUYHWWHGHDOVZLWKWKHPGHIWO\HQRXJK
inside and out
but even as I brace for the worst, the GT3 RS takes the hits like a
punchbag: elastic, controlled, instantly ready for another upper-cut
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front axle at these speeds given a regular GT3 is already so bitey,
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Climbing up through a quick S-bend on a deserted
mountainside, the revs are lit and the flat-six wavers tremulously
as 335-section rear tyres chew at the surface, suspension working
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up a bottle of champagne on the podium, every gear-shift a pop of
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Unlike many US QRWIHHOSDUWLFXODUO\KXQJULHUWKDQDUHJXODU*7 VEXWWKHOLQHDULW\
icons, Corvette fits of delivery, the precision throttle control, the way it is hung over
just fine on UK roads the rear axle, it is all just so, and then the chassis and brakes
(optional carbon-ceramics here) let you smash that performance as
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Yet, because the aero is doing very little at typical B-road speeds,
it is still malleable enough to be steered on the throttle, not some
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nothing away from the Corvette; the car from Kentucky can
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84 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


COMPARO Corvette Z06 v 911 GT3 RS

Both at home
on track yet
surprisingly
friendly on road

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 85


Z06 vs GT3 RS THE DETAILS
CHEVROLET PORSCHE 911
CORVETTE ZO6 GT3 RS
AFFORDABILIT Y

£130,000 (estimated) £192,600 (Rs 1.99 crore)


(Rs 1.35 crore) (£150,000 = Rs 1.55 (£235,007 = Rs 2.43 crore, as tested
crore, as tested with options, with options)
estimated)

POWERTR AIN

Engine: 5,463 cc 32v V8 Engine: 3,996 cc 24v flat-six


Transmission: Eight-speed dual- Transmission: Seven-speed
clutch automatic, rear-wheel dual-clutch automatic, rear-
drive wheel drive

PERFORMANCE

Power: 680 hp at 8,400 rpm Power: 525 hp at 8,500 rpm


Torque: 624 Nm at 6,300 rpm Torque: 465 Nm at 6,300 rpm
Top speed: 314 km/h Top speed: 296 km/h
0-100 km/h: 2.7 seconds 0-100 km/h: 3.2 seconds
(estimated)

B O DY/C H A S S I S

Structure: Aluminium, Structure: Steel, aluminium


composites Weight: 1,450 kg
Weight: 1,561 kg (dry) Suspension: Double-wishbones
Suspension: Double wishbones front, multi-link rear
Length/width/height: Length/width/height:
4,688/2,025/1,235 mm 4,572/1,900/1,322 mm
Boot capacity: 357 litres Boot capacity: 0 litres

EFFICIENCY

Fuel capacity: 70 litres Fuel capacity: 64 litres


Official economy: NA Official economy: 7.47 km/l
Tested economy: 4.88 km/l Tested economy: 6.05 km/l
Official range: NA Official range: 480 km
Tested range: 343 km Tested range: 388 km
Emissions: NA Emissions: 305 g/km CO2

86 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


COMPARO Corvette Z06 v 911 GT3 RS

THE FINAL RECKONING FDUEXWWRD*7WRR


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big ask when the—albeit much improved—interior quality and

ONE CLEAR infotainment still lag behind its German rival and the powertrain
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:HZRXOGGRQRWKLQJWRGLVFRXUDJHWKRVHNHHQWRWDNHWKH

WINNER, BUT plunge, but the 911 GT3 RS does remain the superior car by a
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its effervescent flat-six and PDK powertrain, and handling that is
DVUHVROXWHO\JULSS\DVLWLVILQJHUWLSS\WDFWLOH

NO LOSER The RS is also a surprisingly compliant machine, sophisticated


HQRXJKWRpRZRYHUWULFN\WHUUDLQQHYHUVRUHVSRQVLYHDVWREH
QHUYRXV‹LQIDFWEHWWHULQWKLVUHVSHFWWKDQWKHODVW*7ZHWHVWHG
FOR DECADES THE CORVETTE HAS BEEN AN OVER- Individually adjusting bump and rebound, tweaking e-diff
powered QLFKHSURVSHFWIRU8.EX\HUVEXWWKH&=LVIDU settings, and tailoring the stability and traction control might be
PRUH(XURSHDQLQFRQFHSWDQGIHHO1RWRQO\FDQ%ULWVVSHFLI\D overkill for some drivers, but it adds depth to the GT3 RS
steering wheel on the correct side, but the mid-engined layout experience, letting owners quickly experiment and feel the
and flat-plane V8 put the accent on satisfyingly nuanced handling difference in a way that is usually impossible without a lot of
and the high-rpm power delivery that is so perfectly suited to IDIILQJDERXW1RWERWKHUHG"8VHWKHGHIDXOWV
PDNLQJWKHPRVWRIWKDWFKDVVLV Personally, I would take a GT3 Touring manual as a road car—
%RUQLQ.HQWXFN\LWPLJKWEHEXWWKH=IHHOVDWKRPHRQ8. more affordable, less ostentatious, an actual boot—but the GT3
roads, with its well resolved damping, handling that is as nimble RS is far from the compromised track-day weapon first
as it is exploitable, and searing naturally aspirated power delivery LPSUHVVLRQVVXJJHVW
FOHDUO\LQVSLUHGE\,WDO\ VEHVW(YHQLIZHZRXOGOLNHPRUHSHS In fact, while it might have already re-calibrated our
and connection at normal speeds and a little less tramlining on perception of what a road-legal 911 can achieve on a racetrack,
%ULWLVK%URDGVWKH=LVDKLJKO\VDWLVI\LQJVWHHU the real revelation here is just how much of that magic translates
,IDQ\WKLQJLVOLNHO\WREHORVWLQWUDQVODWLRQLWLVWKH= V WRWKHURDG
SULFH,WUHWDLOVIRUOHVVWKDQKDOIWKHFRVWRID*756LQWKH Top honours for the 911, then, but high acclaim for a Corvette
86PDNLQJLWDVHULRXVO\DIIRUGDEOHDOWHUQDWLYHQRWRQO\WRWKDW WKDWQRZERDVWVRIWKHVRSKLVWLFDWLRQWRWDNHLWRQ

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 87


SPORT F1 Dutch GP & Italian GP

Hat-trick at
Home for Max
Verstappen equalled Vettel’s legendary
record of nine consecutive victories
Report: Joshua Varghese

R
ED BULL’S MAX VERSTAPPEN ACHIEVED who would start his first F1 race from the last spot on the grid.
three pole positions in a row at the Dutch Grand Whatever strategies the teams had devised were shot to bits
Prix. This time, it went down to the last lap and he due to the downpour on the first lap. Red Bull’s strategy saw
emerged ahead of McLaren’s Lando Norris and Verstappen stay out and lead the pack on slicks while Sergio
Mercedes’ George Russell. Crashes involving Logan Perez dived into the pits for intermediate tyres. As expected,
Sargeant and Charles Leclerc had brought the red flags out, early adopters of intermediates were able to make significant
further complicating an already tricky qualifying that took place advantages, while the others suffered. The defending world
in mixed conditions. Other notable happenings include Lewis champion found himself behind three cars once the race settled
Hamilton’s surprising exit in Q2 (13th place) and Alex Albon’s down. He made quick work of the competition and looked set to
brilliant drive that put him in fourth place on the starting grid. take the victory but the weather had other plans. Another rain
The injured Daniel Ricciardo was replaced by Liam Lawson shower and a red flag due to a crash transformed the race into a
seven-lap sprint.
In spite of the slippery restart, Verstappen managed to build a
gap between himself and the Fernando Alonso-Perez duo. With
this victory, the Dutch driver equalled Sebastian Vettel’s record
for nine consecutive race victories. He also reasserted his
dominance at the track because this is the third year in
succession that he has converted a pole position into victory at
his home circuit. Alonso put his
Aston Martin in second place while
Perez finished in third. However,
the Mexican driver was handed a
five-second time penalty for
speeding in the pit-lane and was
demoted to fourth. That promoted
Pierre Gasly into the final position
on the podium. Hamilton’s charge
from midfield ended in a sixth place
behind Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz.

88 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


Verstappen Breaks
Vettel’s Record
Carlos Sainz put Ferrari on pole
but the Red Bulls made him
VHWWOHIRUDSRGLXPŒQLVK
Report: Joshua Varghese

C
ARLOS “SMOOTH standing record for consecutive race
Operator” Sainz claimed his victories with 10 race wins on the trot.
first pole position of the Sainz, Perez, and Leclerc were left
season at Ferrari’s home race, fighting for the remaining podium
much to the joy of the tifosi. places. The veteran Mexican slipped
He was in the lead when Q3 began but away and took second place, leaving the
fast laps by Verstappen and Leclerc Ferrari drivers battling for third place.
forced him to extract more from his Both drivers were evenly matched but
Ferrari and he did, leaving Verstappen Leclerc made a costly mistake by locking
and Leclerc to settle for second and third up on the last lap while entering the first
places respectively. Meanwhile, Russell chicane, essentially handing his
overtook Perez for fourth position. teammate the podium finish. In spite of
Hamilton and Alonso finished within the earning five-second time penalties, both
top 10 but further down the order. Mercedes drivers brought home points
Sainz had a good start but Verstappen by claiming fifth (Russell) and sixth
was close on his heels right from the (Hamilton) positions. Albon brought
beginning. The Spaniard defended well Williams points in seventh place,
but a mistake on the 15th lap gave finishing ahead of Norris while Alonso
Verstappen the opportunity he was and Valtteri Bottas completed the top 10.
waiting for. A decisive move around the DRIVERS’ CHAMPIONSHIP Verstappen’s impressive haul of points
Max Verstappen 364
outside allowed the Red Bull driver to Sergio Perez 219
now stands at 364 while Perez, in second
take the lead and he then went about Fernando Alonso 170 place, has 219 points to his credit. In
developing a gap to Sainz; effortlessly, as CONSTRUCTORS’ CHAMPIONSHIP third, we have Alonso with 170 points.
he has been doing so far this season. Red Bull Racing 583 Next, we head to one of the most
Eventually, not only did he win the race Mercedes-AMG 273 physically demanding races on the
but also broke Sebastian Vettel’s long- Aston Martin 217 calendar: the Singapore Grand Prix.

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 89


SPORT WRC Greece

Rovanperä Claims
Victory in Acropolis Rally

Report: Azaman Chothia

Kalle Rovanperä scored his third victory of


the season at EKO Acropolis Rally Greece
to secure his grip on this year’s FIA World
Rally Championship (WRC)

K
ALLE ROVANPERÄ WAS LEADING THE Evans was able to recover from a mechanical issue on
Rally but dropped to third when the drivers had to Saturday to finish second. The Welshman suddenly slowed
tackle rough gravel roads. The stages became even during stage nine with a suspected overheating problem in his
more challenging because of torrential rain earlier in GR Yaris that cost him more than a minute, dropping him to
the week. fifth. A roadside repair kept Evans in the fight, allowing him to
Facing the disadvantage of starting first on the road, rise back to third behind Hyundai’s Dani Sordo following
Rovanperä was able to make up time, helped by wet and muddy retirements for Neuville and Ogier.
conditions on Friday morning.
He headed into Saturday’s much drier and traditional stages
25.5 seconds adrift of the leader, Hyundai’s Thierry Neuville,
who was heading Toyota’s part-time driver, Sebastien Ogier.
Neuville and Ogier were locked in a battle for the victory, with
the latter briefly overhauling the Belgian on Saturday morning,
before Neuville fought back to open up a 10.9-second lead.
Rovanperä brought himself into the victory fight after reeling
off four consecutive stage wins, before being thrust into a shock
lead on Saturday afternoon when Neuville and Ogier both hit
trouble. Neuville hit a hole on stage nine, causing terminal
damage to his i20 N’s front right suspension, and this handed
the lead back to Ogier.
However, on stage 12, Ogier suffered a double rear puncture
and, soon thereafter, his left rear suspension collapsed. This
forced the eight-time world champion to retire from this stage.
Rovanperä had a lead of two minutes and 04.4 seconds that
allowed him to cruise to victory.
Rovanperä has now extended his championship lead over
Evans by 33 points.

90 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


OUR CARS

WELCOME

Maruti Suzuki Jimny 1.5 Alpha+ 4x4 MT

The Jimny Has Arrived


OKAY, THE JIMNY IS WITHOUT A DOUBT ONE OF THE MORE FUN Even so, once the start button is pushed, that’s all the
cars out there. It’s no-nonsense, basic do-it-all nature, and the motivation needed. The Jimny is a car that makes driving fun for
way it is true to its cause gives it a massive appeal. The Jimny the sake of it. It does have a good load of kit in terms of safety,
packs a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder, petrol engine and gets a standard multimedia, and connectivity, but all I need is the music and the
selectable 4x4 drive system, with rear-wheel drive, 4x4 high and road. The Jimny can be driven relaxed or in angst, but the
low, with a second fiddle-stick below the five-speed stick shift. demeanour of the car somehow invokes the former. The steering
This is the fun combination. wheel needs some effort in tighter bends, but it’s great for the
I’ve been using the car since its arrival and there is always a rough stuff and rocks, whenever they do show up.
smile on approach and departure. While there is a dearth of It’s light, it’s a manual, and it’s rear-wheel-drive when I need it
storage space, the seats hold what they need to and the two to be. So far, so freaking awesome!
cup-holders in the centre console and glovebox have to suffice. — Jim Gorde

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 91


GBU

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THE GOOD THE BAD
& THE UGLY
INDIA’S PUNCHIEST CAR BUYING GUIDE

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93 ASTON MARTIN, AUDI


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94 BENTLEY, BMW
ASTON MARTIN
VANTAGE 96 BYD, CITROËN
For: NA. Against: NA. Verdict: NA.
Alternatives: 1. Porsche 911 Turbo 2. Mercedes-AMG GT
V8 286.00 3982/8 8A 685 510 1530 73 NA 295/30 R20  NA 310 NA     NA NA 97 FERRARI , FORCE MOTORS,
DB11
For: NA. Against: NA. Verdict: NA.
HONDA
Alternatives: 1. Bentley Continental GT 2. Porsche 911 Turbo 3. BMW M8 Coupé
V8 Coupé
V8 Volante
BO
BO
3982/8
3982/8
8A
8A
675
675
535
535
1760
1870
78
78
NA
NA
295/35 R20
295/35 R20


4.0
4.1
309
309
NA
NA








NA
NA
NA
NA
98 HYUNDAI
V12 Coupé 397.00 5204/12 8A 700 639 1875 78 NA 295/35 R20  3.7 334 NA     NA NA

DBS 99 ISUZU, JAGUAR


For: NA. Against: NA. Verdict: NA.
Alternatives: 1. Ferrari 812 2. Bentley Continental GT Speed 100 JEEP, KIA
DBS Coupé BO 5204/12 8A 900 725 1693 NA NA 305/30 R21  3.4 340 NA     NA NA
DBS Volante BO 5204/12 8A 900 725 1863 NA NA 305/30 R21  3.6 340 NA     NA NA
101 LAMBORGHINI, LAND ROVER
DBX
For: Luxury, versatility, driving dynamics. Against: Price. Verdict: Sport-luxury all-roader for the well-heeled.
Alternatives: 1. Lamborghini Urus 2. Maserati Levante Trofeo 3. Porsche Cayenne Turbo 102 LEXUS
DBX 382.00 3982/8 9A 700 550 2245 91 632 275/50 R20  NA 291 NA     NA NA
103 MAHINDRA
AUDI
A4 104 MARUTI SUZUKI
For: Refinement, equipment, ride quality. Against: Price. Verdict: Refined entry luxury saloon.
Alternatives: 1. BMW 3 Series 2. Volvo S60 3. Mercedes-Benz C-Class
40 TFSI Premium 39.99 1984/4 7A 320 190 1560 54 460 225/50 R17  7.1 210 10.75     NA NA
106 MASERATI,McLAREN,
 40 TFSI Technology 47.90 1984/4 7A 320 190 1560 54 460 225/50 R17  7.1 210 10.75     Feb 21 

A5 MERCEDES-BENZ
For: Performance, refinement, space. Against: Price. Verdict: A more sensible choice should the RS 7 seems too much.
Alternatives: 1. BMW M340i xDrive 2. Mercedes-AMG C-Class 108 MINI, MORRIS GARAGES
S5 Sportback TFSI 82.51 2995/6 8A 500 354 1760 58 465 255/35 R19  4.8 250 9.25     Jun 21 
 RS 5 Sportback TFSI 107.19 2894/6 8A 600 450 1720 58 465 255/35 R19  NA 250 NA     NA NA

A6 109 NISSAN, PORSCHE


For: Refinement, interior, equipment, ride quality. Against: Price. Verdict: Comfortable and refined saloon.
Alternatives: 1. BMW 5 Series 2. Volvo S90 3. Mercedes-Benz E-Class 110 RENAULT
45 TFSI Premium Plus 58.80 1984/4 7A 370 245 1640 73 560 225/55 R18  7.54 250 11.5     NA NA
 45 TFSI Technology 64.70 1984/4 7A 370 245 1640 73 560 225/55 R18  7.54 250 11.5     Dec 19 
111 ROLLS-ROYCE, ŠKODA,
A7
For: Performance, equipment. Against: Price. Verdict: The high-performance Audi is a proper all-round brute.
Alternatives: 1. BMW M5 Competition/8 Series Gran Coupé 2. Porsche Panamera 3. Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupé TATA MOTORS
RS 7 Sportback TFSI 219.75 3996/6 8A 800 600 2065 72 505 255/45 R19  3.6 250 7.6     Jan 21 

A8 112 TOYOTA
For: Refinement, interior, equipment, ride quality. Against: No diesel option. Verdict: Audi's flagship luxury saloon.
Alternatives: 1. BMW 7 Series 2. Lexus LS 3. Mercedes-Benz S-Class 114 VOLKSWAGEN, VOLVO
55 TFSI quattro Celebration 129.00 2995/6 8A 500 340 1985 82 505 255/45 R19  5.7 250 6.3     NA NA

NEW THIS MONTH LEGENDS


PRICES
Ex-showroom, Pune (subject to change)
AUDI Q8 e-tron TOYOTA RUMION BO: Available only by order
The premium luxury electric An affordable 5+2 seater with NA: Price not available
SUV has been significantly petrol MT/AT and CNG options,
revamped, now available from is a good addition to the line-up, FEATURES
Rs 1.14 crore (ex) from Rs 10.29 lakh (ex) F: Front only
D: Driver airbag only
O: Optional equipment

92 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


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ASTON MARTIN
VANTAGE
For: NA. Against: NA. Verdict: NA.
Alternatives: 1. Porsche 911 Turbo
V8 Coupé 295.00 3982/8 8A 685 510 1530 73 NA 295/35 R20  3.6 314 NA     NA NA
V8 Roadster 350.00 3982/8 8A 685 510 1628 73 NA 295/35 R20  3.8 306 NA     NA NA

DB12
For: NA. Against: NA. Verdict: NA.
Alternatives: 1. McLaren 750S 2. Bentley Continental GT
DB12 Coupé 480.00 3982/8 8A 800 680 NA NA NA 315/30 R21  3.6 325 NA     NA NA

DBX
For: Luxury, versatility, driving dynamics. Against: Price. Verdict: Sport-luxury all-roader for the well-heeled.
Alternatives: 1. Lamborghini Urus 2. Maserati Levante Trofeo 3. Porsche Cayenne Turbo
DBX 382.00 3982/8 9A 700 550 2245 91 632 275/50 R20  NA 291 NA     NA NA
DBX707 463.00 3982/8 9A 900 707 2245 91 632 325/35 R22  3.3 310 NA     NA NA

AUDI
A4
For: Refinement, equipment, ride quality. Against: Price. Verdict: Refined entry luxury saloon.
Alternatives: 1. BMW 3 Series 2. Mercedes-Benz C-Class
40 TFSI Premium 43.85 1984/4 7A 320 190 1560 54 460 225/50 R17  7.1 210 10.75     NA NA
 40 TFSI Technology 51.85 1984/4 7A 320 190 1560 54 460 225/50 R17  7.1 210 10.75     Feb 21 

A5
For: Performance, refinement, space. Against: Price. Verdict: A more sensible choice should the RS 7 seems too much.
Alternatives: 1. BMW M340i xDrive 2. Mercedes-AMG C-Class
S5 Sportback TFSI 75.74 2995/6 8A 500 354 1760 58 465 255/35 R19  4.8 250 9.25     Jun 21 
 RS 5 Sportback TFSI 112.61 2894/6 8A 600 450 1720 58 465 255/35 R19  3.9 250 8.5     Nov 22 

A6
For: Refinement, interior, equipment, ride quality. Against: Price. Verdict: Comfortable and refined saloon.
Alternatives: 1. BMW 5 Series 2. Volvo S90 3. Mercedes-Benz E-Class
45 TFSI Premium Plus 61.60 1984/4 7A 370 245 1640 73 560 225/55 R18  7.54 250 11.5     NA NA
 45 TFSI Technology 67.76 1984/4 7A 370 245 1640 73 560 225/55 R18  7.54 250 11.5     Dec 19 

A8
For: Refinement, interior, equipment, ride quality. Against: No diesel option. Verdict: Audi's flagship luxury saloon.
Alternatives: 1. BMW 7 Series 2. Lexus LS 3. Mercedes-Benz S-Class
55 TFSI quattro Celebration 134.13 2995/6 8A 500 340 1985 82 505 255/45 R19  5.7 250 6.3     NA NA
 55 TFSI quattro Technology 162.57 2995/6 8A 500 340 1985 82 505 255/45 R19  5.7 250 6.3     Aug 22 

Q3
For: Compact size, refinement. Against: Price, no diesel option. Verdict: The entry Q model.
Alternatives: 1. BMW X1 2. Volvo XC40 3. Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class
40 TFSI quattro 44.69 1984/4 7A 320 190 1620 55 530 235/55 R18  7.3 222 9.8     NA NA
40 TFSI quattro Technology 50.39 1984/4 7A 320 190 1620 55 530 235/55 R18  7.3 222 9.8     Dec 22 
Sportback 40 TFSI quattro 51.43 1984/4 7A 320 190 1620 55 530 235/55 R18  7.3 220 9.8     Mar 23 

Q5
For: NA. Against: NA. Verdict: Refreshed mid-size Q is high on tech and practicality.
Alternatives: 1. BMW X3 2. Volvo XC60 3. Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
45 TFSI quattro Premium Pl 61.51 1984/4 7A 370 249 1760 70 520 235/55 R19  6.3 237 8.4     NA NA
 40 TFSI quattro Technology 67.31 1984/4 7A 370 249 1760 70 520 235/55 R19  6.3 237 8.4     Dec 21 

Q7
For: Presence, ride quality. Against: Price. Verdict: Audi's seven-seat wonder.
Alternatives: 1. BMW X7 2. Volvo XC90 3. Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class 4. Land Rover Discovery
55 TFSI quattro Premium+ 84.70 2995/6 8A 500 340 2140 85 402 255/55 R19  5.9 250 7.25     NA NA
 55 TFSI quattro Technology 92.30 2995/6 8A 500 340 2140 85 402 255/55 R19  5.9 250 7.25     Feb 22 

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 93


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Audi BMW

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Q8
For: Style, equipment, refinement. Against: Price. Verdict: The sportier Q7.
Alternatives: 1. Porsche Cayenne Coupé 2. Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupé
55 TFSI quattro Celebration 107.19 2995/6 8A 500 340 2115 85 605 265/55 R19  7.02 250 NA     NA NA
 55 TFSI quattro Technology 143.33 2995/6 8A 500 340 2115 85 605 285/45 R21  7.02 250 NA     Feb 20 
 RS Q8 222.22 3996/8 8A 800 600 2315 85 605 295/35 R23  5.39 250 5.25     Oct 20 

Q8 e-tron
For: Refinement, equipment, flexibility. Against: Price. Verdict: The electric flagship five-seater Q SUV.
Alternatives: 1. Volvo C40 Recharge 2. Jaguar I-Pace
50 quattro 113.70 E, 95kWh 2x1A 664 340 2510 NA 569 255/50 R20  NA 200 NA     NA NA
 Sportback 50 quattro 118.20 E, 95kWh 2x1A 664 340 2510 NA 528 255/50 R20  NA 200 NA     NA NA
 55 quattro 126.10 E, 114kWh 2x1A 664 408 2520 NA 569 255/50 R20  NA 200 NA     NA NA
 Sportback 55 quattro 130.60 E, 114kWh 2x1A 664 408 2520 NA 528 255/50 R20  NA 200 NA     NA NA

e-tron GT
For: Style, performance. Against: Price. Verdict: India's first electric grand tourer.
Alternatives: 1. Porsche Taycan
e-tron GT quattro 170.26 E, 93.4kWh 2A 630 476 2295 NA 350 NA  4.1 245 4.1     May 22 
 RS e-tron GT quattro 193.98 E, 93.4kWh 2A 830 598 2347 NA 405 NA  3.3 250 NA     NA NA

BENTLEY
CONTINENTAL
For: A Bentley with Le Mans heritage. Against: Price? Verdict: Sport meets luxury in an exemplary grand tourer.
Alternatives: 1. Porsche 911 Turbo S 2. McLaren GT
GT V8 329.47 3996/8 8A 770 550 2165 90 358 275/40 R20  4.0 318 NA     NA NA
 GTC V8 364.21 3996/8 8A 770 550 2335 90 235 275/40 R20  4.1 318 NA     NA NA
GT V8 S 355.81 3996/8 8A 770 550 2165 90 358 275/40 R20  4.0 318 NA     NA NA
 GTC V8 S 392.09 3996/8 8A 770 550 2335 90 235 275/40 R20  4.1 318 NA     NA NA
GT Speed 403.59 5950/12 8A 900 659 2273 90 358 275/35 R21  3.6 335 NA     NA NA
GTC Speed 442.96 5950/12 8A 900 635 2436 90 235 275/35 R21  3.7 335 NA     NA NA

FLYING SPUR
For: Fast and agile for a 2.4-tonne car. Against: Price? Verdict: A really fast super-luxury saloon.
Alternatives: 1. Rolls-Royce Ghost 2. Porsche Panamera Executive 3. Mercedes-Maybach S-Class
 Hybrid BO 2894/6 8A 750 544 2505 80 351 275/40 R20  4.3 285 NA     NA NA
V8 322.00 3996/8 8A 770 550 2330 90 420 275/40 R20  4.1 318 NA     NA NA
V8 S BO 3996/8 8A 770 550 2330 90 420 275/40 R20  4.1 318 NA     NA NA
 Speed 341.00 5950/12 8A 900 635 2437 90 475 275/35 R21  3.8 333 NA     NA NA

BENTAYGA
For: Bentley luxury with off-road ability. Against: Not much. Verdict: The Bentley of SUVs.
Alternatives: 1. Rolls-Royce Cullinan 2. Land Rover Range Rover L 3. Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600
 Hybrid (5-st) BO 2995/6 8A 700 462 2648 75 484 275/50 R20  5.2 254 NA     NA NA
V8 (5-st) 410.00 3996/8 8A 770 550 2395 85 484 275/50 R20  4.5 290 NA     NA NA
S (5-st) BO 3996/8 8A 770 550 2415 85 484 275/50 R20  4.5 290 NA     NA NA
 Speed (4-st) BO 5950/12 8A 900 635 2508 85 431 275/40 R22  3.9 306 NA     NA NA
Ext. Wheelbase Azure 600.00 3996/8 8A 770 550 2514 85 380 285/35 R21  4.6 290 NA     NA NA

BMW
2 SERIES
For: Handling, equipment, size. Against: Rear passenger room. Verdict: A sensible everyday sport-luxury car.
Alternatives: 1. Mercedes-Benz A-Class 2. Porsche 718 (M2)
220i Gran Coupé M Sport 43.50 1998/4 8A 280 178 1430 50 430 225/45 R17  7.1 238 9.38     NA NA
220i GC M Performance 46.00 1998/4 8A 280 178 1430 50 430 225/45 R17  7.1 238 9.38     Apr 21 
220d GC M Sport 45.50 1995/4 8A 400 190 1515 50 430 225/45 R17  7.5 235 12.5     Nov 20 
M2 DCT 98.00 2998/6 8A 550 460 1725 52 390 285/30 R20  4.1 250 NA     NA NA
M2 MT 99.00 2998/6 6 550 460 1700 52 390 285/30 R20  4.3 285 9.5     Jun 23 

94 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


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3 SERIES
For: Performance, ride, fuel efficiency. Against: Not much. Verdict: If you are looking for refined performance, look no further.
Alternatives: 1. Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2. Audi A4
320Ld M Sport 62.00 1995/4 8A 400 190 1640 59 480 225/50 R17  7.6 235 14.37     Feb 21 
330Li M Sport 60.60 1998/4 8A 400 258 1640 59 480 225/50 R17  6.2 250 NA     NA NA
M340i xDrive 71.50 2998/6 8A 500 374 1680 59 480 255/40 R18  4.4 250 11.0     Mar 21 

4 SERIES
For: Performance, design, equipment. Against: Price. Verdict: Exciting sport-luxury coupé.
Alternatives: 1. Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS 2. Porsche 911 Carrera S 3. Jaguar F-Type
M4 Competition M xDrive 147.50 2993/6 8A 650 510 1725 59 440 285/30 R20  3.5 250 NA     NA NA

5 SERIES
For: Performance, luxury, driving pleasure. Against: Price. Verdict: Refined mile-muncher.
Alternatives: 1. Mercedes-Benz E-Class 2. Lexus ES 3. Volvo S90 4. Audi A6
520d M Sport 68.90 1995/4 8A 400 190 1615 66 530 245/45 R18  8.11 235 12.0     Nov 17 

6 SERIES GRAN TURISMO


For: Ride quality, comfort, equipment. Against: Not much. Verdict: Grand tourer meets style statement.
Alternatives: 1. Mercedes-Benz E-Class
620d Luxury Line 73.90 1995/4 8A 400 190 1725 66 600 245/50 R18  7.9 250 NA     NA NA
630i M Sport 72.50 1998/4 8A 400 258 1720 68 600 275/40 R19  6.5 250 9.1     May 21 
 630i M Sport Signature 75.90 1998/4 8A 400 258 1720 68 600 275/40 R19  6.5 250 9.1     NA NA

7 SERIES
For: Loaded with cutting-edge technology. Against: Price. Verdict: More advanced and capable than its predecessor.
Alternatives: 1. Mercedes-Benz S-Class 2. Lexus LS 3. Audi A8
740i M Sport 170.00 2998/6 8A 540 380 2090 74 540 245/50 R19  5.4 250 NA     NA NA

8 SERIES
For: Performance, design, equipment. Against: Price. Verdict: The modern reincarnation of a famous name.
Alternatives: 1. Porsche 911 Turbo 2. Aston Martin Vantage
M8 Coupé Competition 255.00 4395/8 8A 750 625 1885 68 515 285/35 R20  3.3 250 5.0     Dec 20 

Z4
For: Refinement, dynamic performance. Against: Not much. Verdict: Fun-to-drive and refined sports car.
Alternatives: 1. Porsche 718 Boxster
M40i 89.30 2998/6 8A 500 340 1535 52 281 275/40 R18  5.02 250 7.88     Aug 19 

X1
For: Equipment, ride and handling. Against: Not much. Verdict: The easiest way to get into the BMW family.
Alternatives: 1. Volkswagen Tiguan 2. Volvo XC40 3. Audi Q3 4. Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class
sDrive18i xLine 45.90 1499/3 7A 230 136 1500 45 540 225/55 R17  9.2 208 NA     NA NA
sDrive18i M Sport 48.90 1499/3 7A 230 136 1500 45 540 225/50 R18  9.2 208 NA     NA NA
sDrive18d M Sport 50.90 1995/4 7A 360 150 1575 45 540 225/50 R18  8.9 210 12.75     Jul 23 

X3
For: Equipment, handling, practicality. Against: Not much. Verdict: Good on-road handler that isn't afraid of the rough stuff.
Alternatives: 1. Volvo XC60 2. Land Rover Discovery Sport 3. Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class 4. Audi Q5
xDrive20d xLine 68.50 1995/4 8A 400 190 1825 65 550 245/50 R19  6.6 235 NA     NA NA
xDrive20d M Sport 70.90 1995/4 8A 400 190 1825 65 550 245/50 R19  6.6 235 NA     NA NA
M40i xDrive 87.70 2998/6 8A 500 360 1810 65 550 275/40 R20  4.9 250 NA     NA NA

X5
For: Performance, equipment. Against: Not much. Verdict: A good all-round SUV.
Alternatives: 1. Land Rover Range Rover Sport 2. Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class 3. Volvo XC90 4. Audi Q7
xDrive40i xLine 93.90 2998/6 8A 520 381 2135 85 650 305/40 R21  5.4 243 NA     NA NA
xDrive40i M Sport 104.90 2998/6 8A 520 381 2135 85 650 305/40 R21  5.4 243 NA     NA NA
xDrive30d xLine 95.90 2993/6 8A 650 286 2190 85 650 305/40 R21  6.1 235 NA     NA NA
xDrive30d M Sport 106.90 2993/6 8A 650 286 2190 85 650 305/40 R21  6.1 235 NA     NA NA

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 95


GBU
BMW Honda

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X7
For: Luxury, capability, equipment, presence. Against: Not much. Verdict: Genuine 7 Series luxury in SUV form.
Alternatives: 1. Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class 2. Volvo XC90 3. Lexus LX 4. Land Rover Defender 130
xDrive40i M Sport 123.70 2998/6 8A 540 381 2415 83 300 275/50 R20  5.8 250 NA     NA NA
 xDrive40d M Sport 126.20 2993/6 8A 720 352 2470 80 300 275/50 R20  5.9 245 NA     NA NA

XM
For: Radical styling, V8 performance, PHEV efficiency. Against: Price. Verdict: A formidable plug-in-hybrid V8 SUV.
Alternatives: 1. Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid 2. Land Rover Range Rover P550e
XM 260.00 4395/8 8A 800 653 2710 69 527 315/40 R21  4.3 140/250 NA     NA NA
Label Red BO 4395/8 8A 1000 748 2710 69 527 315/40 R21  3.8 140/290 NA     NA NA

i4
For: Handling, equipment, comfort. Against: Inadequate EV infrastructure. Verdict: A proper electric BMW.
Alternatives: 1. Kia EV6
eDrive40 Sport 73.90 E, 83.9kWh 1A 430 340 2050 NA 470 225/55 R17  5.7 190 5.3     NA NA
eDrive40 M Sport 78.90 E, 83.9kWh 1A 430 340 2050 NA 470 255/40 R18  5.7 190 5.3     Mar 23 

i7
For: Comfort, interior quality, equipment, safety. Against: Price. Verdict: Advanced and capable electric 7 Series.
Alternatives: 1. Audi e-tron GT 2. Mercedes EQS
i7 xDrive60 M Sport 195.00 E,101.7kWh 1A 745 544 2640 NA 500 285/35 R21  4.7 240 4.9     Jun 23 

iX
For: Space, comfort, interior quality. Against: Not much. Verdict: Bavaria's first all-electric luxury SUV in India.
Alternatives: 1. Audi Q8 e-tron 2. Jaguar I-Pace 3. Volvo XC40 Recharge
xDrive40 121.00 E, 76.6kWh 1A 630 326 2365 NA 500 255/50 R21  6.1 200 NA     NA NA

BYD
ATTO 3
For: NA. Against: NA. Verdict: All-electric SUV with some innovative features.
Alternatives: 1. MG ZS EV 2. Hyundai Kona
Atto 3 33.99 E, 60.5kWh 1A 310 204 1750 NA 440 215/55 R18  7.3 NA NA     NA NA

CITROËN
C3
For: Comfort, refinement, ride quality. Against: Price. Verdict: All-new compact car that's equal parts hatchback and crossover.
Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki Ignis 2. Hyundai Exter 3. Renault Kiger
PureTech 82 Live 6.16 1199/3 5 115 82 939 30 315 195/65 R15 - 14.9 168 13.5     NA NA
PT82 Shine Vibe DT 7.87 1199/3 5 115 82 964 30 315 195/65 R15 - 14.9 168 13.5     Jan 23 
PureTech 110 Live 8.28 1199/3 5 190 110 1035 30 315 195/65 R15 - NA NA NA     NA NA
PT110 Shine Vibe DT 8.92 1199/3 5 190 110 1035 30 315 195/65 R15 - NA NA NA     NA NA

ëC3
For: Comfort, ride quality, practicality. Against: Price. Verdict: The electric version of the C3.
Alternatives: 1. Tata Tiago.ev
Live 11.50 E, 29.2kWh 1A 143 58 1302 NA 315 195/65 R15 - NA NA NA     NA NA
Feel Vibe DT 12.43 E, 29.2kWh 1A 143 58 1316 NA 315 195/65 R15 - NA NA NA     NAA NA
NA

C5 AIRCROSS
For: Equipment, ride quality. Against: Price. Verdict: One of the best riding SUVs in the segment.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Tucson 2. Volkswagen Tiguan
2.0 HDi Shine 37.17 1997/4 8A 400 177 1685 52 580 235/55 R18 - NA NA NA     Oct 22 

96 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


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FERRARI
ROMA
For: Styling, presence. Against: Price. Verdict: Distinct new design meets modern V8.
Alternatives: 1. Porsche 911 2. Lamborghini Huracán Evo
Roma 400.00 3855/8 8A 760 620 1472 80 NA 295/35 ZR20  NA 320 NA     NA NA
Roma Spider BO 3855/8 8A 760 620 1556 80 NA 295/35 ZR20  3.4 320 NA     NA NA

812
For: Monstrous power. Against: Monstrous price. Verdict: The essential Ferrari; armed to the tooth with cutting-edge tech.
Alternatives: 1. McLaren 750S 2. Aston Martin DB12
812 Superfast 525.00 6496/12 7A 718 800 1515 92 320 315/35 ZR20  NA 340 NA     NA NA
812 GTS 585.00 6496/12 7A 718 800 1645 92 210 315/35 ZR20  NA 340 NA     NA NA

296
For: NA. Against: NA. Verdict: Modern six-cylinder Ferrari hybrid supercar.
Alternatives: 1. Porsche 911 Turbo S 2. McLaren Artura 3. Lamborghini Huracán
296 GTB 540.00 2992/6 8A 740 830 1470 65 NA 305/30 ZR20  NA 330 NA     NA NA
296 GTS BO 2992/6 8A 740 830 1645 92 210 305/30 ZR20  NA 330 NA     NA NA

SF90
For: A 1,000-hp hybrid Ferrari. Against: Price. Verdict: The most advanced Ferrari road-car ever.
Alternatives: None
SF90 Stradale 739.00 3990/8 8A 1065 1000 1570 68 320 315/30 ZR20  NA 340 NA     NA NA
SF90 Spider 800.00 3990/8 8A 1065 1000 1670 68 74 315/30 ZR20  NA 340 NA     NA NA

FORCE MOTORS
GURKHA
For: Off-road ability, functionality. Against: Basic interior. Verdict: All the off-roader you would ever need, and at a good price.
Alternatives: 1. Mahindra Thar
Gurkha 4x4 3-dr 15.10 2596/4 5 250 91 NA 63 500 245/70 R16 - NA NA NA  -   NA NA

HONDA
AMAZE
For: Space, fuel efficiency, equipment. Against: Questionable styling. Verdict: A credible alternative in the sub four-metre category.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Aura 2. Maruti Suzuki Dzire
i-VTEC (P) E 6.99 1198/4 5 110 90 905 35 420 175/65 R14 - NA NA NA   - - NA NA
i-VTEC (P) VX CVT 9.60 1198/4 CVT 110 90 948 35 420 175/65 R15 - NA NA NA     NA NA

CITY
For: Engine, interior, equipment. Against: Refinement. Verdict: Exceptional combination of performance and efficiency.
Alternatives: 1. Volkwagen Virtus 2. Škoda Slavia 3. Hyundai Verna 4. Maruti Suzuki Ciaz
i-VTEC SV 11.55 1497/4 6 145 121 1107 40 506 185/60 R15  10.76 164.5 12.25    - Oct 20 
i-VTEC ZX CVT 15.97 1497/4 CVT 145 121 1153 40 506 185/55 R15  NA NA NA     NA NA
e:HEV V 18.89 1497/4 eCVT 253 126 NA 40 410 185/60 R15  NA NA NA     NA NA
e:HEV ZX Sensing 20.39 1497/4 eCVT 253 126 1280 40 410 185/55 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA

ELEVATE
For: Comfort, space, versatility. Against: Noisy engine. Verdict: Honda's mid-size urban SUV.
Alternatives: 1. Volkwagen Taigun 2. Škoda Kushaq 3. Hyundai Creta 4. Kia Seltos
i-VTEC SV 11.00 1497/4 6 145 121 1206 40 458 185/60 R15  NA NA NA    - NA NA
i-VTEC ZX 14.90 1497/4 6 145 121 1216 40 458 185/55 R15  NA NA NA     NA NA
i-VTEC V CVT 13.21 1497/4 CVT 145 121 1258 40 458 185/55 R15  NA NA NA    - NA NA
i-VTEC ZX CVT 16.00 1497/4 CVT 145 121 1258 40 458 185/55 R15  NA NA NA     NA NA

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 97


GBU
Hyundai Jaguar

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HYUNDAI
GRAND i10 NIOS
For: Practicality, handling, equipment, fit-and-finish, value. Against: Can get pricey at the top. Verdict: Very practical everyday car.
Alternatives: 1. Citroën C3 2. Maruti Suzuki Swift
1.2 (P) Era 5.69 1197/4 5 114 83 NA 37 NA 165/65 R14 - NA NA NA F  - - NA NA
1.2 (P) Asta Auto 8.47 1197/4 5A 114 83 NA 37 NA 175/60 R15  NA NA NA     NA NA
1.2 CNG Magna 7.56 1197/4 5 95 69 NA 37 NA 165/65 R14 - NA NA NA    - NA NA
1.2 CNG Sportz 8.11 1197/4 5 99 69 NA 37 NA 175/60 R15 - NA NA NA    - NA NA

i20
For: Interior, equipment, ride quality, styling. Against: Price. Verdict: One of the best modern hatchbacks.
Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki Baleno 2. Toyota Glanza 3. Tata Altroz
1.2 (P) Era 6.99 1197/4 5 115 83 NA 37 311 185/65 R15 - NA NA NA    - NA NA
1.2 (P) Sportz IVT 9.38 1197/4 CVT 115 88 NA 37 311 195/55 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA
1.2 (P) Asta(O) IVT 11.01 1197/4 CVT 115 88 NA 37 311 195/55 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA
N Line N6 iMT 10.19 998/3 6I 172 120 NA 37 311 195/55 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA
N Line N8 DCT 12.16 998/3 7A 172 120 NA 37 311 195/55 R16  NA NA NA     Jun 22 

AURA
For: Practicality, equipment. Against: Not much. Verdict: A fitting replacement for the Accent and Xcent.
Alternatives: 1. Honda Amaze 2. Maruti Suzuki Dzire
1.2 (P) E 6.30 1197/4 5 114 83 NA 37 402 165/70 R14 - NA NA NA F  - - NA NA
1.2 (P) SX+ AT 8.73 1197/4 5A 114 83 NA 37 402 175/60 R15  NA NA NA     NA NA
1.2 CNG S 8.10 1197/4 5 95 69 NA 37 NA 165/70 R14 - NA NA NA    - NA NA
1.2 CNG SX 8.87 1197/4 5 95 69 NA 37 NA 165/70 R14 - NA NA NA    - NA NA

VERNA
For: Interior, equipment, handling, design. Against: Not much. Verdict: Innovative new sedan.
Alternatives: 1. Volkswagen Virtus 3. Škoda Slavia 3. Honda City 4. Maruti Suzuki Ciaz
1.5 MPI (P) EX 10.90 1497/4 6 144 115 NA 45 528 185/65 R15 - NA NA NA   - - NA NA
1.5 MPI (P) SX(O) 14.66 1497/4 6 144 115 NA 45 528 205/55 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA
1.5 MPI (P) SX IVT 14.23 1497/4 CVT 144 115 NA 45 528 205/55 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA
1.5 MPI (P) SX(O) IVT 16.20 1497/4 CVT 144 115 NA 45 528 205/55 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA
1.5 TGDI SX 14.84 1482/4 6 253 160 NA 45 528 205/55 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA
1.5 TGDI SX(O) DCT 17.38 1482/4 7A 253 160 NA 45 528 205/55 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA

EXTER
For: Size, interior, equipment. Against: Expensive top variants. Verdict: A new compact SUV.
Alternatives: 1. Citroën C3 2. Maruti Suzuki Ignis 3. Tata Punch
1.2 (P) EX 6.00 1197/4 5 114 83 NA 37 391 165/70 R14 - NA NA NA    - NA NA
1.2 (P) EX(O) 6.25 1197/4 5 114 83 NA 37 391 165/70 R14  NA NA NA    - NA NA
1.2 (P) SX(O) Connect 9.32 1197/4 5 114 83 NA 37 391 175/60 R15  NA NA NA     NA NA
1.2 (P) S AMT 7.97 1197/4 5A 114 83 NA 37 391 165/70 R14  NA NA NA     NA NA
1.2 (P) SX(O) Connect AMT 10.00 1197/4 5A 114 83 NA 37 391 175/60 R15  NA NA NA     NA NA
1.2 CNG S 8.24 1197/4 5 95 69 NA 37 NA 165/70 R14 - NA NA NA     NA NA
1.2 CNG SX 8.97 1197/4 5 95 69 NA 37 NA 165/70 R14  NA NA NA     NA NA

VENUE
For: Handling, equipment. Against: Rear passenger room. Verdict: Thoroughly modern and well-equipped compact SUV.
Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki Brezza 2. Mahindra XUV300 3. Renault Kiger
1.2 (P) E 7.77 1197/4 5 114 83 NA 45 350 195/65 R15 - NA NA NA    - NA NA
1.0 TGDI (P) S(O) 10.33 998/3 6 172 120 NA 45 350 215/60 R16  13.25 175.4 12.25     Sep 20 
1.0 TGDI (P) SX(O) DCT 13.03 998/3 7A 172 120 NA 45 350 215/60 R16  10.85 NA 12.75     Feb 20 
N Line N6 12.00 998/3 6 172 120 NA 45 350 215/60 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA
N Line N8 DCT 13.75 998/3 7A 172 120 NA 45 350 215/60 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA
1.5 CRDi S+ 10.46 1493/4 6 250 116 NA 45 350 195/65 R15  NA NA NA    - NA NA
1.5 CRDi SX(O) 13.19 1493/4 6 250 116 NA 45 350 215/60 R16  NA NA NA    - NA NA

CRETA
For: Space, interior, practicality. Against: Not much. Verdict: Capable as a city runabout and for a highway jaunt.
Alternatives: 1. Kia Seltos 2. Škoda Kushaq 3. Volkswagen Taigun 4. MG Hector
1.5 MPI (P) EX 10.87 1497/4 6 144 115 NA 50 433 205/65 R16 - NA NA NA    - NA NA
1.5 MPi (P) SX(O) IVT Adv 17.89 1497/4 CVT 144 115 NA 50 433 215/60 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA
1.5 CRDi E 11.96 1493/4 6 250 116 NA 50 433 205/65 R16 - 12.14 166.5 NA     May 20 
1.5 CRDi SX(O) AT 19.00 1493/4 6A 250 116 NA 50 433 215/60 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA

98 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


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ALCAZAR
For: Space, equipment, interior, practicality. Against: Not much. Verdict: Flexible family car.
Alternatives: 1. Kia Carens 2. Mahindra Scorpio-N 3. MG Hector Plus
TGDI (P) Prestige 7-st 16.78 1482/4 6 253 160 NA 50 180 215/60 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA
TGDI (P) Signature DCT 20.28 1482/4 7A 253 160 NA 50 180 215/55 R18  NA NA NA     NA NA
CRDi Prestige 17.73 1493/4 6 250 116 NA 50 180 215/60 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA
CRDi Signature AT 20.88 1493/4 6A 250 116 NA 50 180 215/55 R18  NA NA NA     NA NA

TUCSON
For: Style, equipment, refinement, capability. Against: Not much. Verdict: Radically stylish premium SUV that works everywhere.
Alternatives: 1. Volkswagen Tiguan 2. Škoda Kodiaq 3. Citroën C5 Aircross
2.0P Platinum 28.63 1999/4 6A 192 156 NA 54 540 235/60 R18  NA NA NA     NA NA
2.0P Signature Dual-tone 31.25 1999/4 6A 192 156 NA 54 540 235/60 R18  NA NA NA     NA NA
2.0D Platinum 31.13 1995/4 8A 416 186 1561 54 540 235/60 R18  NA NA NA     NA NA
2.0D Signature 4WD 35.31 1995/4 8A 416 186 1656 54 540 235/60 R18  NA NA NA     NA NA

KONA
For: Performance, equipment, refinement. Against: Practicality limited only by infrastructure. Verdict: Everyday electric car.
Alternatives: 1. MG ZS EV 2. BYD Atto-3
Electric Premium 23.84 E, 39.2kWh 1A 395 136 1593 NA 373 215/55 R17  8.35 159.5 8.2/kWh     Mar 20 

IONIQ 5
For: Comfort, equipment, refinement. Against: Practicality limited only by infrastructure. Verdict: Premium electric crossover.
Alternatives: 1. Kia EV6 2. BYD Atto 3
Electric GL 72 RWD 44.95 E, 72.6kWh 1A 350 217 1990 NA 527 255/45 R20  NA NA NA     NA NA

ISUZU
MU-X
For: Features, equipment, comfort, space. Against: Price. Verdict: More modern Isuzu full-size SUV.
Alternatives: 1. Toyota Fortuner 2. Isuzu mu-X
AT 4x2 35.00 1898/4 6A 320 163 NA 65 235 255/60 R18  NA NA NA     NA NA
AT 4x4 37.90 1898/4 6A 320 163 NA 65 235 255/60 R18  NA NA NA     NA NA

D-MAX
For: Capability, practicality, space, safety, equipment. Against: Rear seat-back angle. Verdict: First Japanese pick-up in India.
Alternatives: 1. Toyota Hilux
Hi-Lander 19.50 1898/4 6 360 163 1835 76 NA 245/70 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA
V-Cross Z AT 23.00 1898/4 6A 360 163 1890 76 NA 255/60 R18  NA NA NA     NA NA
V-Cross Z 4x4 23.82 1898/4 6 360 163 1955 76 NA 255/60 R18  NA NA NA     NA NA
V-Cross Z Prestige 4x4 AT 27.36 1898/4 6A 360 163 1990 76 NA 255/60 R18  NA NA NA     NA NA

JAGUAR
F-TYPE
For: Exclusivity, power. Against: Price. Verdict: Raw and exciting sports car.
Alternatives: 1. Porsche 718 (2.0), 911 (V8) 2. Mercedes-AMG GT 3. Nissan GT-R 4. BMW Z4
P300 Coupé (MY23) 99.98 1997/4 8A 400 300 1520 63 509 295/35 ZR19  5.9 250 NA     NA NA
P300 Coupé R-Dynamic 100.15 1997/4 8A 400 300 1520 63 509 295/35 ZR19  5.9 250 NA     NA NA
P450 Coupé (MY23) 142.78 4999/8 8A 580 450 1706 70 509 295/30 ZR20  4.6 285 NA     NA NA
"75" Coupé (Final) 145.70 4999/8 8A 580 450 1706 70 509 295/30 ZR20  4.6 285 NA     NA NA
P450 Convertible (MY23) 153.03 4999/8 8A 580 450 1718 70 233 295/30 ZR20  4.6 285 NA     NA NA
"75" Convertible (Final) 155.70 4999/8 8A 580 450 1718 70 233 295/30 ZR20  4.6 285 NA     NA NA

F-PACE
For: Styling, safety, equipment. Against: Price. Verdict: A capable and credible sport-luxury SUV.
Alternatives: 1. Porsche Macan 2. BMW X3 3. Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class 4. Volvo XC60
P250 AWD R-Dynamic S 78.46 1997/4 8A 365 250 1897 82 601 255/55 R19  7.3 217 9.3     Sep 21 
D200 AWD R-Dynamic S 78.46 1997/4 8A 430 204 1876 60 601 255/55 R19  NA 210 NA     NA NA

I-PACE
For: NA. Against: NA. Verdict: A sporty yet practical luxury electric SUV.
Alternatives: 1. BMW iX 2. Kia EV6 3. Audi Q8 e-tron
Electric AWD SE 119.58 E, 90kWh A 696 400 2248 NA 656 245/50 R20  NA NA NA     NA NA
Electric AWD HSE 124.15 E, 90kWh A 696 400 2248 NA 656 245/50 R20  NA NA NA     NA NA

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 99


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Jeep Land Rover

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JEEP
COMPASS
For: Style, safety, equipment, comfort, capability, ride quality. Against: Not much. Verdict: The most accessible Jeep.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Tucson
MultiJet (D) Sport 21.44 1956/4 6 350 170 1597 60 NA 225/60 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA
MultiJet (D) S 4x4 AT 31.64 1956/4 9A 350 170 1778 60 NA 235/60 R18  NA NA 8.25     Mar 21 

MERIDIAN
For: Style, safety, equipment, comfort, capability, ride quality. Against: Not much. Verdict: A larger, three-row Compass.
Alternatives: 1. Mahindra XUV700 2. Kia Carnival
Upland 4x2 MT 32.95 1956/4 6 350 170 NA 60 NA 225/60 R18  NA NA NA     NA NA
Upland 4x2 AT 34.85 1956/4 9A 350 170 NA 60 NA 225/60 R18  NA NA NA     NA NA
X 4x2 AT 35.45 1956/4 9A 350 170 NA 60 NA 225/60 R18  NA NA NA     NA NA
X 4x4 AT 38.10 1956/4 9A 350 170 1798 60 NA 225/60 R18  NA NA NA     NA NA

WRANGLER
For: Off-road cred, style, driver appeal. Against: Fuel efficiency, price. Verdict: If you want a hardcore off-roader...
Alternatives: 1. Land Rover Defender
Unlimited 4x4 AT 59.05 1995/4 8A 400 272 1999 80 900 255/70 R18 A/T  NA NA NA     NA NA
Unlimited Rubicon 63.05 1995/4 8A 400 272 2034 80 900 255/75 R17 M/T  NA NA 11.75     Jul 21 

GRAND CHEROKEE
For: Presence, comfort, equipment. Against: Engine size. Verdict: The premium Jeep revitalised.
Alternatives: 1. Land Rover Range Rover Sport 2. BMW X5 3. Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
Limited (O) 4x4 AT 78.50 1995/4 8A 400 272 2097 87 1087 265/50 R20  NA NA 6.5     Jan 23 

KIA
SONET
For: Styling, equipment, interior, powertrain choices. Against: Not much. Verdict: Compact crossover at a competitive price.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Venue 2. Mahindra XUV300 3. Maruti Suzuki Brezza
G1.2 (P) HTE 7.79 1197/4 5 113 83 NA NA 392 195/65 R15 - NA NA NA F  - - NA NA
G1.2 (P) HTK+ 9.76 1197/4 5 113 83 NA NA 392 215/60 R16 - NA NA NA     NA NA
G1.0 TGDI HTK+ 10.49 998/3 6I 172 120 NA NA 392 215/60 R16 - NA NA NA     NA NA
G1.0 TGDI X-Line 13.89 998/3 7A 172 120 NA NA 392 215/60 R16  NA NA 12.75     Jan 21 
D1.5 CRDi HTE 9.95 1493/4 6 250 116 NA NA 392 195/65 R15 - NA NA NA F  - - NA NA
D1.5 CRDi X-Line 14.89 1493/4 6A 250 116 NA NA 392 215/60 R16  11.97 174 17.5     Oct 22 

SELTOS
For: Styling, equipment, interior, ride quality. Against: Not much. Verdict: Modern crossover built for it all.
Alternatives: 1. Škoda Kushaq 2. Volkswagen Taigun 3. Hyundai Creta
G1.5 (P) HTE 10.90 1497/4 6 144 115 NA 50 433 205/65 R16  NA NA NA    - NA NA
G1.5 (P) HTX IVT 16.60 1497/4 CVT 144 115 NA 50 433 215/60 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA
G1.5 TGDI HTK+ 15.00 1482/4 6I 253 160 NA NA 433 215/60 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA
G1.5 TGDI X-Line 20.00 1482/4 7A 253 160 NA NA 433 215/55 R18  NA NA NA     NA NA
D1.5 CRDi HTE 12.00 1493/4 6I 250 116 NA 50 433 215/60 R17  NA NA NA    - NA NA
D1.5 CRDi X-Line 20.00 1493/4 6A 250 116 NA 50 433 215/55 R18  NA NA NA     NA NA

CARENS
For: Comfort, equipment, flexibility, handling. Against: Not much. Verdict: An "RV" that works like an MUV and drives like a hatch.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Alcazar 2. Mahindra XUV700 3. Maruti Suzuki XL6
G1.5 (P) Premium 10.45 1497/4 6 144 115 NA NA 216 195/65 R15  NA NA NA    - NA NA
G1.5 (P) Prestige 11.65 1497/4 6 144 115 NA NA 216 195/65 R15  NA NA NA    - NA NA
G1.5 TGDI Premium 12.00 1482/4 6I 253 160 NA NA 216 205/65 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA
G1.5 TGDI Luxury Plus DCT 18.45 1482/4 7A 253 160 NA NA 216 205/65 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA
D1.5 CRDi Premium 12.65 1493/4 6I 250 116 NA 45 216 205/65 R16  NA NA NA    - NA NA
D1.5 CRDi Luxury Plus AT 18.95 1493/4 6A 250 116 NA 45 216 205/65 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA

CARNIVAL
For: Space, comfort, flexibility. Against: Not much. Verdict: Premium touring option for seven occupants.
Alternatives: None in this price bracket
Prestige (7-st) 30.99 2199/4 8A 440 200 2093 60 540 235/55 R19  NA NA NA     NA NA
Limousine Plus (7-st) 35.49 2199/4 8A 440 200 2201 60 540 235/55 R19  10.39 189.4 10.75     Jul 20 

100 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


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EV6
For: Comfort, versatility, performance. Against: Steep price point. Verdict: Exciting, all-new everyday EV on an all-new platform.
Alternatives: 1. BMW i4 2. Volvo XC40 Recharge
GT-Line 60.95 E, 77.4kWh 1A 350 229 1985 - 490 235/55 R19  NA 185 NA     NA NA
GT-Line AWD 65.95 E, 77.4kWh 1/1A 605 325 2090 - 490 235/55 R19  NA 185 NA     NA NA

LAMBORGHINI
HURACÁN
For: Style, agility, handling, acceleration. Against: Price. Verdict: Probably the most exotic V10 supercar on sale today.
Alternatives: 1. Porsche 911 GT3 2. Ferrari Portofino 3. McLaren Artura
Evo RWD Coupé 322.00 5204/10 7A 560 610 1389 90 NA 305/35 ZR19  NA 325 NA     NA NA
Evo RWD Spyder 354.00 5204/10 7A 560 610 1509 90 NA 305/35 ZR19  NA 324 NA     NA NA
Sterrato 461.00 5204/10 7A 560 610 1470 90 NA 285/40 R19  3.4 260 NA     NA NA
Tecnica 404.00 5204/10 7A 565 640 1379 90 NA 305/30 ZR20  3.0 310 NA     NA NA
Evo Coupé 373.00 5204/10 7A 600 640 1422 90 NA 305/30 ZR20  NA 325 NA     NA NA
Evo Spyder 410.00 5204/10 7A 600 640 1542 90 NA 305/30 ZR20  NA 324 NA     NA NA

REVUELTO
For: Powertrain, capability. Against: Price. Verdict: Lamborghini's plug-in hybrid V12 super sports car.
Alternatives: 1. Ferrari 812 2. Call Aston Martin and ask if they have a Valkyrie 3. Call McLaren... Speedtail
Revuelto BO 6498/12 8A 1575 1015 1772 NA NA 345/30 ZR21  2.5 350 NA     NA NA

URUS
For: Performance, capability. Against: Price. Verdict: Lamborghini's first modern SUV, and the fastest in the world.
Alternatives: 1. Bentley Bentayga 2. Porsche Cayenne Turbo
Urus S 418.00 3996/8 8A 850 666 2197 85 NA 315/40 ZR21  3.5 305 NA     NA NA
Urus Performante 422.00 3996/8 8A 850 666 2150 85 NA 315/35 ZR22  3.3 306 NA     NA NA

LAND ROVER
DISCOVERY SPORT
For: Off-road capability, seven-seat option. Against: Price. Verdict: Good all-round SUV with Land Rover off-road ability.
Alternatives: 1. BMW X3 2. Volvo XC60 3. Mercedes-Benz GLB 4. Lexus NX 5. Audi Q5
D200 R-Dynamic SE 71.39 1997/4 9A 430 204 1874 65 1197 235/60 R18  8.6 209 NA     NA NA
P250 R-Dynamic SE 71.39 1997/4 9A 430 204 1864 65 1197 235/60 R18  7.8 225 NA     NA NA

DISCOVERY
For: Comfort, equipment, off-road ability. Against: Price. Verdict: The more modernised and equally capable full-size SUV.
Alternatives: 1. Volvo XC90 2. BMW X5 3. Audi Q7
P300 SE 7-st 93.90 1997/4 8A 400 300 2209 90 172 255/55 R19  NA 201 NA     NA NA
P360 Metropolitan Edition 131.70 2996/6 8A 500 360 2291 90 986 275/40 R21  NA 209 NA     NA NA
D300 SE 7-st 120.00 2997/6 8A 650 300 2362 90 172 255/55 R19  NA 209 NA     NA NA
D300 Metropolitan Edition 131.70 2997/6 8A 650 300 2311 90 986 275/40 R21  NA 209 NA     NA NA

DEFENDER
For: Capability, comfort, flexibility, off-road prowess. Against: Price. Verdict: An off-road legend reincarnate.
Alternatives: 1. Jeep Wrangler 2. Mercedes-Benz G-Class
90 (3-dr) P300 HSE 92.70 1997/4 8A 400 300 2065 90 297 255/70 R18  NA 191 NA     Oct 22 
110 P300 X-Dynamic HSE 98.40 1997/4 8A 400 300 2168 90 231 255/60 R20  8.1 191 6.3     Jan 21 
90 (3-dr) P400 HSE 98.60 2996/6 8A 550 400 2170 90 297 255/70 R18  6.0 191 NA     NA NA
110 P400 HSE 119.50 2996/6 8A 550 400 2275 90 231 255/70 R18  NA 191 NA     NA NA
130 P400 HSE (8-st) 130.40 2996/6 8A 550 400 2528 90 290 255/70 R18  6.6 191 NA     NA NA
90 (3-dr) D300 HSE 112.50 2997/6 8A 650 300 2228 89 297 255/60 R20  NA 191 NA     NA NA
110 D300 SE 105.47 2997/6 8A 650 300 2396 89 231 255/70 R18  NA 191 NA     NA NA
130 D300 X (5-st) 141.00 2997/6 8A 650 300 2550 89 1094 255/60 R20  7.5 191 NA     NA NA
110 P400e X-Dynamic HSE 139.10 1997/4 8A 640 404 2538 91 853 255/60 R20  5.6 191 NA     NA NA
90 (3-dr) V8 201.60 4999/8 8A 625 525 2471 90 297 255/60 R20  5.2 240 NA     NA NA
110 V8 Carpathian Edition 229.90 4999/8 8A 625 525 2603 90 231 255/60 R20  5.4 240 NA     NA NA
130 V8 P500 (5-st) BO 4999/8 8A 610 500 2631 90 1094 255/60 R20  5.7 240 NA     NA NA

RANGE ROVER EVOQUE


For: Design, equipment, handling, off-road ability. Against: Space, price. Verdict: If you want style, go for it
Alternatives: 1. Porsche Macan 2. Volvo XC60 3. BMW X3
D200 R-Dynamic SE 72.09 1997/4 9A 430 200 1816 70 591 235/65 R17  NA 205 NA     NA NA
P250 R-Dynamic SE 72.09 1997/4 9A 365 250 1818 70 591 235/65 R17  NA 230 NA     NA NA

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 101


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RANGE ROVER VELAR
For: Design, presence. Against: Thirsty engine. Verdict: Stylish and capable "mid-size" luxury SUV
Alternatives: 1. Lexus RX 2. Volvo XC60 3.Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
P250 R-Dynamic S 93.00 1997/4 8A 365 250 1875 63 735 235/60 R18  NA 217 NA     NA NA
D200 R-Dynamic S 93.00 1999/4 8A 430 204 1928 63 735 235/60 R18  NA 210 NA     NA NA

RANGE ROVER SPORT


For: Luxury, style, presence. Against: Price, bulk. Verdict: If you want to stand out from the crowd...
Alternatives: 1. Porsche Cayenne 2. Maserati Levante 3. BMW X7
D350 Dynamic SE 164.29 2997/6 8A 700 350 2360 80 647 255/50 R20  5.9 234 8.25     NA NA
D350 Dynamic HSE 171.06 2997/6 8A 700 350 2360 80 647 285/45 R22  5.9 234 8.25     Aug 23 
P400 Dynamic HSE 168.00 2996/6 8A 550 400 2310 90 647 255/50 R20  5.7 242 NA     NA NA
P635 SV BO 4395/8 8A 750 635 NA NA NA 275/40 R22  NA NA NA     NAA NA
N A

RANGE ROVER
For: Luxury, refinement, off-road ability. Against: Price. Verdict: Off-road ability and luxury both without compromise.
Alternatives: 1. Lexus LX 2. Bentley Bentayga 3. Mercedes-Maybach GLS-Class
D350 SE 238.87 2997/6 8A 700 350 2505 80 818 275/45 R21  6.1 234 NA     NA NA
L D350 SV 401.70 2997/6 8A 700 350 2563 80 1050 275/40 R22  6.3 234 8.5     Dec 22 
P400 SE 238.87 2996/6 8A 550 400 2379 90 818 275/45 R21  5.8 242 NA     NA NA
L P400 Autobiography 7-st 327.60 2996/6 8A 550 400 2444 90 312 275/40 R22  5.9 242 NA     NA NA
L P460e SE 281.34 2996/6 8A 660 460 2735 90 1050 275/45 R21  6.0 225 NA     NA NA
P550e SV 415.12 2996/6 8A 800 550 2735 90 1050 275/40 R22  5.0 242 NA     NA NA
P530 SE 254.32 4395/8 8A 750 530 2510 90 818 275/45 R21  4.6 250 NA     NA NA
L P615 SV 417.15 4395/8 8A 750 615 2551 90 1050 275/40 R22  4.6 261 NA     NA NA

LEXUS
ES
For: Styling, luxury, comfort, equipment. Against: Price. Verdict: The hybrid premium saloon bridging the present and the future.
Alternatives: 1. BMW 5 Series 2. Mercedes-Benz E-Class 3. Volvo S90 4. Audi A6
ES 300h Exquisite 62.00 2487/4 eCVT NA 218 1680 65 454 235/45 R18  NA 180 16.12     NA NA
ES 300h Luxury 68.45 2487/4 eCVT NA 218 1680 65 454 235/45 R18  8.5 180 16.12     Feb 22 

LS
For: Attention to detail, luxury, comfort, equipment. Against: Price. Verdict: Cutting-edge hybrid luxury saloon.
Alternatives: 1. BMW 7 Series 2. Mercedes-Maybach S-Class 3. Porsche Panamera
LS 500h Luxury 195.52 3456/6 10A NA 359 2300 82 430 245/45 R20  6.58 250 9.12     NA NA
LS 500h Nishijin 226.79 3456/6 10A NA 359 2345 82 430 245/45 R20  6.58 250 9.12     Mar 18 

LC
For: Style, attention to detail, performance. Against: Price. Verdict: Hybrid luxury grand-tourer.
Alternatives: 1. Porsche 911 2. Mercedes-AMG SL-Class 3. Maserati MC20
LC 500h 239.00 3456/6 10A NA 359 2020 82 NA 275/35 R21  NA 250 NA     NA NA

NX
For: Comfort, equipment, style. Against: Noisy at full chat. Verdict: Extremely luxurious, and relaxing to drive.
Alternatives: 1. BMW X3 2. Volvo XC60 3. Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
NX 350h AWD Exquisite 67.35 2487/4 eCVT NA 243 1790 56 475 235/50 R20  NA NA NA     NA NA
NX 350h AWD F Sport 74.24 2487/4 eCVT NA 243 1870 56 475 235/50 R20  NA NA NA     NA NA

RX
For: Style, luxury, comfort, equipment. Against: Price. Verdict: Among the most modern looking designs.
Alternatives: 1. Volvo XC90 2. Land Rover Discovery 3. Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
RX 350h E-Four Luxury 95.80 2487/4 eCVT NA 250 2065 65 461 235/60 R19  7.9 200 NA     NA NA
RX 500h Direct4 F-Sport+ 118.10 2393/4 6A 550 371 2190 65 461 235/50 R21  6.2 210 NA     NA NA

LM
For: Comfort, equipment, efficiency. Against: Price. Verdict: A different sort of luxury vehicle.
Alternatives: 1. Toyota Vellfire
LM 350h 7-seat BO 2494/4 eCVT 325 250 NA 60 NA 225/55 R19  NA NA NA     NA NA
LM 350h 4-seat BO 2494/4 eCVT 325 250 NA 60 NA 225/55 R19  NA NA NA     NA NA

LX
For: Luxury, size. Against: Price? Verdict: Premium luxury SUV that isn't afraid to go off-road.
Alternatives: 1. BMW X7 2. Land Rover Range Rover
LX 500d 282.40 3346/6 8A 700 309 2705 93 NA 285/60 R18  8.0 210 NA     NA NA

102 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


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MAHINDRA & MAHINDRA
BOLERO
For: Rugged, reliable, do-it-all MUV. Against: Lacks refinement. Verdict: Get one if you need to haul many people over bad roads.
Alternatives: 1. Renault Triber 2. Kia Carens
mHawk D75 B4 9.45 1493/3 5 210 76 NA 60 NA 215/75 R15 - NA NA NA   - - NA NA
mHawk D75 B6(O) 10.43 1493/3 5 210 76 NA 60 NA 215/75 R15 - NA NA NA    - NA NA

BOLERO NEO
For: Robust and go-anywhere feel. Against: Basic interior quality. Verdict: A new take on the popular name.
Alternatives: 1. Renault Triber
mHawk100 N4 8.48 1493/3 5 260 100 NA 50 384 215/75 R15 - NA NA NA   - - NA NA
mHawk100 N10 10.00 1493/3 5 260 100 NA 50 384 215/75 R15 - NA NA NA     NA NA

XUV300
For: Price, handling, performance. Against: Not much. Verdict: The best handling Mahindra model on sale.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Venue 2. Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza 3. Renault Kiger
Turbo Petrol W4 8.16 1197/3 6 200 110 NA 42 257 205/65 R16 - 12.38 176.7 12.0   - - Apr 19 
Turbo Petrol W8(O) auto 12.69 1197/3 6A 200 110 NA 42 257 215/55 R17  NA NA 12.3     Mar 21 
mStallion TGDI (P) W8(O) 12.75 1197/3 6 250 130 NA 42 257 215/55 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA
Turbo Diesel W4 9.31 1497/4 6 300 115 NA 42 257 205/65 R16 - NA NA NA    - Aug 19 
Turbo Diesel W8(O) auto 13.52 1497/4 6A 300 115 NA 42 257 215/55 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA

XUV400
For: Price, handling, performance. Against: Not much. Verdict: A longer and more premium electric version of the XUV300.
Alternatives: 1. MG ZS EV 2. Tata Nexon EV
EC 3.3kW 15.99 E, 34.5kWh 1A 310 150 NA NA 378 205/65 R16  8.3 150 NA   - - NA NA
EC 7.2kW 16.49 E, 34.5kWh 1A 310 150 NA NA 378 205/65 R16  8.3 150 NA   - - NA NA
EL 7.2kW 18.99 E, 39.4kWh 1A 310 150 1578 NA 378 205/65 R16  8.3 150 6.8     Jun 23 

THAR
For: Capability, practicality, off-road ability. Against: Refinement. Verdict: A proper everyday car and off-roader in one.
Alternatives: 1. Force Gurkha 2. Maruti Suzuki Jimny
LX RWD AT mStallion (P) 13.49 1997/4 6A 320 152 NA 57 NA 255/65 R18  NA NA 8.5     Mar 23 
AX(O) 4WD mStallion (P) 13.59 1997/4 6 300 152 1735 57 NA 245/75 R16 - NA NA NA     NA NA
LX 4WD AT mStallion (P) 15.82 1997/4 6A 320 152 NA 57 NA 255/65 R18  NA NA NA     NA NA
AX(O) RWD mHawk 9.99 1497/4 6 300 119 NA 57 NA 245/75 R16 - NA NA NA   - - NA NA
LX 4WD AT mHawk 16.29 2184/4 6A 300 132 2014 57 NA 255/65 R18  14.97 156 13.5     ct 20
Oct 

SCORPIO CLASSIC
For: Tractable engine, value. Against: Dynamics at speed. Verdict: Among the best full-size SUVs on a budget around.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Alcazar 2. Kia Carens
mHawk S5 11.99 2184/4 6 300 132 1875 60 NA 245/75 R16 - NA NA NA  - - - NA NA
mHawk S11 15.49 2184/4 6 300 132 1875 60 NA 245/75 R16 - NA NA NA  -  - NA NA

SCORPIO-N
For: Price, stance, driveability. Against: Quality of plastics, front seat support. Verdict: A bold and modern take on the Scorpio.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Alcazar 2. Kia Carens 3. Tata Safari
Z2 (P) 11.99 1997/4 6 370 203 NA 57 NA 245/65 R17 - NA NA NA    - NA NA
Z8L AT (P) 20.95 1997/4 6A 380 203 NA 57 NA 255/60 R18  NA NA NA     NA NA
Z2 mHawk 12.49 2184/4 6 300 132 NA 57 NA 245/65 R17 - NA NA NA     NA NA
Z4 mHawk AT 15.95 2184/4 6A 400 175 NA 57 NA 245/65 R17  NA NA NA    - NA NA
Z4 mHawk 4x4 16.44 2184/4 6 370 175 NA 57 NA 245/65 R17  NA NA NA    - NA NA
Z8 mHawk AT 21.45 2184/4 6A 400 175 NA 57 NA 255/60 R18  NA NA 12.25     Aug 22 
Z8L mHawk 4x4 AT 23.90 2184/4 6A 400 175 NA 57 NA 255/60 R18  NA NA NA     NA NA

XUV700
For: Price, performance, ergonomics, flexibility. Against: Body-roll. Verdict: A five- or seven-seater with punchy engine choices.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Alcazar 2. MG Hector Plus 3. Tata Safari
MX 5-st (P) 14.01 1997/4 6 380 200 NA 60 NA 235/65 R17  NA NA NA    - NA NA
AX7 AT Lux (P) 24.35 1997/4 6A 380 200 NA 60 NA 235/60 R18  NA NA NA     Dec 21 
mHawk155 MX 5-st 14.45 2184/4 6 360 155 NA 60 NA 235/65 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA
mHawk AX3 AT 18.90 2184/4 6A 450 185 NA 60 NA 235/65 R17  NA NA NA    - NA NA
mHawk AX7 Lux 23.13 2184/4 6 420 185 NA 60 NA 235/60 R18  NA NA NA     NA NA
mHawk AX7 AT AWD Lux 26.18 2184/4 6A 450 185 NA 60 NA 235/60 R18  NA NA NA     NA NA

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 103


GBU
Maruti Suzuki

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MARUTI SUZUKI
ALTO
For: Value, space, service network. Against: Not much for the price. Verdict: One of the highest-selling cars in the country.
Alternatives: 1. Renault Kwid
K10 3.99 998/3 5 89 67 NA 27 214 145/80 R13 - NA NA NA -  - - NA NA
K10 VXi+ AGS 5.84 998/3 5A 89 67 NA 27 214 145/80 R13 - NA NA NA F   - NA NA
K10 VXi CNG 5.95 998/3 5 82 57 NA 27 NA 145/80 R13 - NA NA NA F   - NA NA

S-PRESSO
For: Compact size, ride quality, braking. Against: Love-it-or-hate-it styling, cabin room. Verdict: Capable compact all-rounder.
Alternatives: 1. Renault Kwid
Std 4.25 998/3 5 90 68 726 27 NA 145/80 R13 - 15.00 154.3 16.38   - - Dec 19 
VXi+(O) AGS 6.04 998/3 5A 90 68 767 27 NA 165/70 R14 - NA NA NA    - NA NA
VXi CNG 6.10 998/3 5 82 57 NA 27 NA 145/80 R13 - NA NA NA    - NA NA

WAGONR
For: Space, practicality, equipment, fuel efficiency. Against: Fit-and-finish, steering feel. Verdict: A convenient city runabout.
Alternatives: 1. Tata Tiago 2. Hyundai Grand i10
LXi 5.40 998/3 5 90 68 815 32 NA 155/80 R13  NA NA NA   - - NA NA
VXi 1.0 AGS 6.36 998/3 5A 90 68 835 32 NA 165/70 R14  NA NA NA   - - NA NA
LXi CNG 6.35 998/3 5 78 59 910 32 NA 165/70 R14  NA NA NA   - - NA NA
VXi CNG 6.81 998/3 5 78 59 920 32 NA 165/70 R14  NA NA NA   - - NA NA
ZXi 1.2 6.00 1197/4 5 113 90 835 32 NA 165/70 R14  NA NA NA   - - NA NA
ZXi+ AGS 6.98 1197/4 5A 113 90 850 32 NA 165/70 R14  13.36 158.4 14.88    - Jun 19 

CELERIO
For: Convenience, price. Against: Auto shift quality, safety. Verdict: Affordable compact car with a usable petrol AMT.
Alternatives: 1. Tata Tiago 2. Hyundai Grand i10
LXi 5.35 998/3 5 89 67 800 32 313 165/70 R14 - NA NA NA - - - - NA NA
ZXi+ AGS 7.13 998/3 5A 89 67 825 32 313 175/60 R15 - NA NA NA    - NA NA
VXi CNG 6.72 998/3 5 82 57 905 32 NA 165/70 R14 - NA NA NA    - NA NA

SWIFT
For: Peppy performance, equipment, efficiency. Against: Not much. Verdict: Still has the formula for success.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Grand i10 Nios 2. Citroën C3
LXi 6.00 1197/4 5 113 90 875 37 268 165/80 R14  NA NA NA -  - - NA NA
ZXi+ AGS Dual-tone 8.98 1197/4 5A 113 90 905 37 268 185/65 R15  NA NA NA     NA NA
VXi CNG 7.77 1197/4 5 99 78 NA 37 318 165/80 R14  NA NA NA     NA NA
ZXi CNG 8.45 1197/4 5 99 78 NA 37 318 185/65 R15  NA NA NA     NA NA

IGNIS
For: Style, space, customization choices. Against: Price. Verdict: Easy-going and practical all-rounder.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Grand i10 Nios 2. Citroën C3 3. Tata Punch
Petrol Sigma 5.82 1197/4 5 113 83 840 32 260 175/65 R15  NA NA NA F  - - NA NA
Petrol Alpha Auto 8.14 1197/4 5A 113 83 865 32 260 175/65 R15  14.90 150.1 13.5     May 17 

BALENO
For: Ease of driving, equipment, efficiency. Against: Steering feel, ergonomics. Verdict: Well-equipped hatchback.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai i20 2. Tata Altroz
Sigma 6.35 1197/4 5 113 90 920 37 318 185/65 R15  NA NA NA   - - NA NA
Alpha Auto 9.49 1197/4 5A 113 90 960 37 318 195/55 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA
Delta CNG 8.30 1197/4 5 99 78 NA 37 318 185/65 R15  NA NA NA     NA NA
Zeta CNG 9.23 1197/4 5 99 78 NA 37 318 185/65 R15  NA NA NA     NA NA

DZIRE
For: Frugal, practical diesel, great value. Against: Styling. Verdict: Tough to find a better entry-level saloon at this price.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Aura 2. Honda Amaze
LXi 6.44 1197/4 5 113 90 880 37 378 165/80 R14  NA NA NA -  - - NA NA
ZXi+ Auto 9.31 1197/4 5A 113 90 915 37 378 185/65 R15  NA NA NA     NA NA
VXi CNG 8.32 1197/4 5 99 78 990 37 NA 185/65 R15  NA NA NA     NA NA
ZXi CNG 9.00 1197/4 5 99 78 995 37 NA 185/65 R15  NA NA NA     NA NA

CIAZ
For: Feature-packed. Against: Rivals feels nicer and are quicker. Verdict: A contemporary all-round package.
Alternatives: 1. Honda City 2. Volkswagen Virtus 3. Hyundai Verna
Sigma 9.20 1462/4 5 138 105 NA 43 510 185/65 R15 - NA NA NA    - NA NA
Alpha Auto 12.19 1462/4 4A 138 105 NA 43 510 195/55 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA

104 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


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EECO
For: Price, space. Against: Safety, looks, hard suspension. Verdict: Practical and affordable option for big families and car-pooling.
Alternatives: 1. Renault Triber
5-Seater 5.13 1197/4 5 104 81 935 32 NA 155 R13 LT - NA NA NA -  - - NA NA
7-Seater 5.42 1197/4 5 104 81 955 32 NA 155 R13 LT - NA NA NA -  - - NA NA
5-Seater AC CNG 6.44 1197/4 5 95 71.6 1050 32 NA 155 R13 LT - NA NA NA -  - - NA NA

ERTIGA
For: Value for money, space, ergonomics. Against: You either have the third row or boot space. Verdict: A good car in its segment.
Alternatives: 1. Renault Triber 2. Kia Carens
LXi(O) 8.49 1462/4 5 137 103 1150 45 209 185/65 R15  NA NA NA   - - NA NA
ZXi+ Auto 12.93 1462/4 6A 137 103 1205 45 209 185/65 R15  NA NA NA     NA NA
VXi CNG 10.58 1462/4 5 122 88 1250 45/60 NA 185/65 R15  NA NA NA     NA NA
ZXi(O) CNG 11.68 1462/4 5 122 88 1255 45/60 NA 185/65 R15  NA NA NA     NA NA

XL6
For: Space, ergonomics. Against: Engine isn't punchy enough. Verdict: A well-equipped six-seater.
Alternatives: 1. Kia Carens 2. Hyundai Alcazar
Zeta 11.29 1462/4 5 137 103 1180 45 209 195/60 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA
Alpha+ Auto 14.39 1462/4 6A 137 103 1220 45 209 195/60 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA
Zeta CNG 12.36 1462/4 5 122 88 1275 45/60 NA 185/65 R15  NA NA NA     NA NA

FRONX
For: Styling, steering feel. Against: Price. Verdict: A stylish crossover based on the Baleno.
Alternatives: 1. Renault Kiger 2. Hyundai Venue 3. Kia Sonet
Sigma 1.2 7.48 1197/4 5 113 90 965 37 308 195/60 R16  NA NA NA   - - NA NA
Delta+ 1.2 AGS 9.28 1197/4 5A 113 90 975 37 308 195/60 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA
Delta+ Turbo 9.73 998/3 5 148 100 1015 37 308 195/60 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA
Alpha Turbo Auto D/T 13.14 998/3 6A 148 100 1060 37 308 195/60 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA

BREZZA
For: Space, practicality, ride quality. Against: Steering feel, inadequate power. Verdict: Stylish new compact crossover on a budget.
Alternatives: 1. Mahindra XUV300 2. Hyundai Venue 3. Renault Kiger
LXi 7.99 1462/4 5 137 103 NA 48 328 205/60 R16  NA NA NA -  - - NA NA
ZXi+ Auto 13.80 1462/4 6A 137 103 NA 48 328 215/60 R16  NA NA 12.8     Nov 22 
LXi CNG 9.14 1462/4 5 122 88 NA 48/55 NA 215/60 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA
ZXi CNG 11.90 1462/4 5 122 88 NA 48/55 NA 215/60 R16  NA NA 12.8     NA NA

JIMNY
For: Fun factor, capability, heritage, style. Against: Interior space. Verdict: Celebrated compact SUV now in five-door form.
Alternatives: 1. Mahindra Thar 2. Force Gurkha
Zeta 12.74 1462/4 5 134 105 1195 40 219 195/80 R15  NA NA NA    - NA NA
Zeta AT 13.94 1462/4 4A 134 105 1205 40 219 195/80 R15  NA NA NA     NA NA
Alpha 13.69 1462/4 5 134 105 1200 40 219 195/80 R15  NA NA NA     NA NA
Alpha AT D/T 15.05 1462/4 4A 134 105 1210 40 219 195/80 R15  NA NA NA     NA NA

GRAND VITARA
For: Ride quality, handling, equipment. Against: Quality of interior elements could be better. Verdict: Spacious and practical all-rounder.
Alternatives: 1. Toyota Urban Cruiser HyRyder 2. Hyundai Creta 3. Kia Seltos 4. Volkswagen Taigun 5. Škoda Kushaq
SmartHybrid Sigma 10.70 1462/4 5 137 103 1150 45 375 215/60 R17  NA NA NA    - NA NA
SmartHybrid Delta AT 13.60 1462/4 6A 137 103 1185 45 375 215/60 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA
SmartHybrid Alpha AT 16.91 1462/4 6A 137 103 1210 45 375 215/60 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA
SmartHybrid Alpha AWD 16.91 1462/4 5 137 103 1260 45 375 215/60 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA
CNG Delta 13.05 1462/4 5 122 88 NA 45/55 NA 215/60 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA
CNG Zeta 14.86 1462/4 5 122 88 NA 45/55 NA 215/60 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA
Hybrid Zeta+ 18.29 1490/3 eCVT NA 116 1290 45 265 215/60 R17  NA NA 27.0     NA NA
Hybrid Alpha+ 19.79 1490/3 eCVT NA 116 1295 45 265 215/60 R17  NA NA 27.0     May 23 

INVICTO
For: Comfort, interior, ride quality. Against: Not much. Verdict: Maruti Suzuki's only answer to the Innova HyCross.
Alternatives: 1. Toyota Innova HyCross 2. Kia Carnival
Zeta+ 8-st 24.79 1987/4 eCVT NA 186 NA 52 239 215/60 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA
Zeta+ 7-st 24.84 1987/4 eCVT NA 186 NA 52 239 215/60 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA
Alpha+ 7-st 28.42 1987/4 eCVT NA 186 1685 52 239 215/60 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 105


GBU
Maserati Mercedes-Benz

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MASERATI
GHIBLI
For: Style, driver appeal. Against: Price. Verdict: The only Italian option in the German-dominated sport-luxury segment.
Alternatives: 1. (Size-wise) BMW 5 Series, Audi A6, Volvo S90 2. (Price-wise) BMW 7 Series, Porsche Panamera
GT Hybrid 120.00 1995/4 8A 450 330 1795 NA 500 235/50 R18  5.7 255 NA     NA NA
Modena S 155.00 2979/6 8A 580 430 1810 70 500 235/50 R18  4.9 286 NA     NA NA
Trofeo 199.00 3799/8 8A 730 580 1969 70 500 285/30 R20  4.3 326 NA     NA NA

QUATTROPORTE
For: Style, presence. Against: Price. Verdict: An Italian four-door sport-luxury car with distinct road presence.
Alternatives: 1. Porsche Panamera 2. Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupé
Gran Lusso 171.00 2979/6 8A 500 350 1760 80 530 285/30 R20  NA 250 NA     NA NA
Gran Sport 177.00 2979/6 8A 500 350 1760 80 530 285/30 R20  NA 250 NA     NA NA
Trofeo 232.00 3799/8 8A 730 580 NA 80 530 285/30 R20  NA NA NA     NA NA

GRANTURISMO
For: NA. Against: NA. Verdict: All-new Italian GT now with V6 and electric choices.
Alternatives: 1. Porsche 911 Turbo S/Taycan Turbo S(Folgore) 2. Audi RS e-tron GT (Folgore)
Modena BO 2992/6 8A 600 490 1795 70 310 295/30 R21  3.9 302 NA     NA NA
Trofeo BO 2992/6 8A 650 550 1795 70 310 295/30 R21  3.5 320 NA     NA NA
Folgore BO E, 92.5kWh 2x 1A 1350 761 NA NA 270 295/30 R21  2.7 320 NA     NA NA

MC20
For: NA. Against: NA. Verdict: Thoroughbred Italian sports car with a thrilling new V6.
Alternatives: 1. Porsche 911 2. Lexus LC 3. Aston Martin Vantage
MC20 369.00 2992/6 8A 730 630 1500 60 150 305/35 R20  NA 325 NA     NA NA
MC20 Cielo BO 2992/6 8A 730 630 1540 60 100 305/35 R20  3.0 320 NA     NA NA

LEVANTE
For: NA. Against: NA. Verdict: The Maserati of SUVs.
Alternatives: 1. Audi Q8 2. BMW X6 3. Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupé 4. Porsche Cayenne Coupé
GT Hybrid 145.00 1995/4 8A 450 330 2095 80 580 275/50 R19  6.0 240 NA     NA NA
Modena S 179.00 2979/6 8A 580 430 2110 80 580 295/45 R19  5.2 264 NA     NA NA
Levante Trofeo 238.00 3799/8 8A 730 580 2205 80 580 295/35 R21  4.1 302 NA     NA NA

McLAREN
GT
For: Style, presence, driver appeal. Against: Price. Verdict: The grand tourer from the iconic British brand.
Alternatives: 1. Ferrari Roma 2. Porsche 911 Turbo S 3. Lamborghini Huracán 4. Aston Martin Vantage
GT 373.00 3994/8 7A 630 620 1530 72 570 295/30 R21  3.2 326 NA     NA NA

ARTURA
For: Style, presence, performance. Against: Price. Verdict: A potent yet more efficient .
Alternatives: 1. Ferrari 296 GTB 2. Porsche 911 Turbo S 3. Maserati MC20
Artura 540.00 2993/6 7A 720 680 1498 NA NA 295/35 R20  3.0 330 NA     NA NA

750S
For: Style, presence, performance. Against: Price. Verdict: A British rival for the very best big names.
Alternatives: 1. Ferrari 296 GTB 2. Aston Martin DBS
750S BO 3994/8 7A 800 750 1389 72 360 305/30 R20  2.8 332 NA     NA NA
750S Spider BO 3994/8 7A 800 750 1438 72 208 305/30 R20  2.8 332 NA     NA NA

MERCEDES-BENZ
A-CLASS
For: Badge, ride quality. Against: Price. Verdict: The first step to the three-pointed star.
Alternatives: 1. BMW 2 Series
A 200 Sedan 45.80 1332/4 7A 270 163 1375 43 395 225/50 R17  8.3 230 NA     NA NA
A 200 d Sedan BO 1950/4 8A 300 150 1465 43 395 225/50 R17  8.4 227 NA     NA NA
AMG A 45 S 4MATIC+ 92.50 1991/4 8A 500 421 1585 51 370 245/35 R19  3.9 270 7.5     Mar 22 

106 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


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C-CLASS
For: Style, status, performance. Against: Price. Verdict: Fun to drive luxury car with good ride quality, too.
Alternatives: 1. BMW 3 Series 2. Toyota Camry 3. Škoda Superb 4. Audi A4
C 200 Avantgarde 59.00 1496/4 9A 300 204 1650 50 455 225/50 R17  NA 246 NA     NA NA
C 220 d Avantgarde 60.00 1993/4 9A 440 200 1730 40 455 225/50 R17  NA 245 NA     NA NA
 C 300 d AMG Line 65.00 1993/4 9A 550 265 1775 50 455 245/40 R18  NA 250 NA     NA NA

E-CLASS
For: Comfort, technology, space. Against: Not much. Verdict: Longer wheelbase alternative to the competition.
Alternatives: 1. BMW 5 Series 2. Volvo S90 3. Audi A6
E 200 L Exclusive 75.00 1991/4 9A 320 197 1740 80 540 225/55 R17  7.6 240 6.25     May 21 
E 220 d L Exclusive 76.00 1950/4 9A 400 194 1810 80 540 225/55 R17  8.5 240 13.5     Jul 17 
E 350 d L AMG Line 88.00 2925/6 9A 600 286 1920 80 540 245/50 R18  NA 250 NA     NA NA
AMG E 53 4MATIC+ 106.00 2999/6 9A 520 435 1875 66 540 265/35 R19  4.5 250 8.0     Feb 22 
AMG E 53 4MATIC+ Cabr 130.00 2999/6 9A 520 435 1980 66 310 265/35 R19  NA 250 NA     NA NA
AMG E 63 S 4MATIC+ 177.00 3982/8 9A 850 612 1935 66 540 295/30 R20  3.4 300 5.3     Sep 21 

S-CLASS
For: Luxury, technology, comfort. efficiency. Against: Price. Verdict: Elegant looks with top-of-the-line luxury features.
Alternatives: 1. BMW 7 Series 2. Audi A8 3. Lexus LS 4. Bentley Flying Spur (Maybach)
S 350 d L 171.50 2925/6 9A 600 286 2040 65 540 245/45 R18  5.4 250 11.25     Jan 22 
S 400 d 4MATIC L 217.00 2925/6 9A 700 330 2090 65 540 245/45 R20  NA 250 NA     Aug 21 
S 450 4MATIC L 184.00 2999/6 9A 500 367 2015 65 540 245/45 R20  NA 250 NA     NA NA
Maybach S 580 4MATIC 269.00 3982/8 9A 700 503 2200 65 505 255/45 R19  4.8 250 6.25     Apr 22 
Maybach S 680 4MATIC 343.00 5980/12 9A 900 612 2255 65 495 255/40 R20  4.5 250 NA     NA NA

SL-CLASS
For: Luxury, technology, heritage. Against: Price. Verdict: Latest iteration of the iconic drop-top.
Alternatives: 1. Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet 2. Lexus LC
AMG SL 55 4MATIC+ 235.00 3982/8 9A 700 476 1875 70 213 285/35 R20  3.9 295 4.5     Aug 23 

AMG GT 4-DOOR COUPÉ


For: Performance, presence, handling, room for four. Against: Price. Verdict: Exciting sports car for four.
Alternatives: 1. Porsche Panamera 2. Maserati Quattroporte
GT 63 S E Performance 330.00 3982/8 9A 1470 843 2380 65 395 295/35 ZR20  2.9 316 12.65     NA NA

EQB
For: Performance, equipment, flexibility. Against: Price, limited infrastructure. Verdict: A premium electric seven-seater.
Alternatives: 1. Kia EV6 GT-LIne AWD 2. Volvo XC40 Recharge
EQB 350 4MATIC 77.50 E, 66.5kWh 2x1A 520 292 2175 - 465 235/60 R18  6.2 160 NA     NA NA

EQS
For: Equipment. Against: Price. Verdict: The S-Class of electric cars.
Alternatives: 1. Porsche Taycan 2. BMW i7 3. Audi e-tron GT
EQS 580 4MATIC 162.00 E, 108kWh 2x1A 855 523 2585 - 610 285/35 R21  NA 250 NA     NA NA
AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ 245.00 E, 108kWh 2x1A 950 658 2655 - 610 285/30 R22  NA 250 NA     Sepp 22 

GLA-CLASS
For: All-round ability. Against: Equipment, off-road ability. Verdict: Compact crossover with the three-pointed star.
Alternatives: 1. BMW X1 2. Volvo XC40 3. Audi Q3 4. MINI Countryman
GLA 200 Progressive 48.40 1332/4 7A 250 163 1500 43 435 235/50 R18  8.7 210 NA     NA NA
GLA 220 d Progressive 50.60 1950/4 8A 400 190 1640 51 425 235/50 R18  7.4 222 NA     NA NA
GLA 220 d 4MATIC 53.30 1950/4 8A 400 190 1690 51 425 235/50 R18  7.3 219 12.25     Jul 21 
AMG GLA 35 4MATIC 63.40 1991/4 8A 400 306 1680 51 435 235/50 R19  5.2 250 NA     NA NA

GLB-CLASS
For: Flexibility, equipment. Against: Price. Verdict: Flexible and compact seven-seater with a premium badge.
Alternatives: 1. Land Rover Discovery Sport 2. Škoda Kodiaq
GLB 200 Progressive 58.80 1332/4 7A 250 163 1570 52 570 235/55 R18  9.1 207 NA     NA NA
GLB 220 d Progressive 62.70 1950/4 8A 400 190 1710 52 570 215/65 R17  7.7 220 NA     NA NA
GLB 220 d 4M AMG Line 71.80 1950/4 8A 400 190 1755 60 570 235/55 R18  7.6 217 12.0     Jun 23 

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 107


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GLC-CLASS
For: Size, equipment, brand value. Against: Limited off-road ability. Verdict: Versatile mid-size luxury SUV.
Alternatives: 1. BMW X3 2. Audi Q5 3. Volvo XC60 4. Lexus NX
GLC 300 4MATIC 73.50 1999/4 9A 400 258 1870 62 620 235/55 R19  6.2 240 NA     NA NA
GLC 220 d 4MATIC 74.50 1950/4 9A 440 197 1940 62 620 235/55 R19  8.0 219 NA     NA NA

GLE-CLASS
For: Comfort, ride, brand value. Against: Price. Verdict: Great soft-roader with a brand image.
Alternatives: 1. BMW X5 2. Porsche Cayenne/Coupé (AMG) 3. Audi Q8/RS Q8 (AMG) 4. Volvo XC90
GLE 300 d 4MATIC 91.20 1950/4 9A 500 245 2125 70 690 255/50 R19  NA 225 NA     NA NA
GLE 400 d 4MATIC 108.00 2925/6 9A 700 330 2265 70 690 255/50 R19  NA 245 NA     NA NA
GLE 450 4MATIC 104.00 2999/6 9A 500 367 2215 70 690 255/50 R19  NA 250 NA     NA NA
AMG 53 4MATIC+ Coupé 171.20 2999/6 9A 520 435 2250 85 655 315/45 R21  5.3 250 6.12     Dec 20 
AMG 63 S 4MATIC+ Coupé 223.50 3982/8 9A 850 612 2370 85 655 325/35 R22  3.8 280 7.5     Mar 22 

GLS-CLASS
For: Comfort, space, equipment, ride, brand value. Against: Price. Verdict: Full-size luxury SUV gets even better.
Alternatives: 1. BMW X7 2. Lexus LX 3. Volvo XC90; Maybach: 1. Land Rover Range Rover 2. Bentley Bentayga
GLS 400 d 4MATIC 130.80 2925/6 9A 700 330 2505 70 690 275/40 R20  6.3 238 9.0     Jan 21 
Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC 296.00 3982/8 9A 730 558 2785 70 520 325/40 R22  4.9 250 4.5     Aug 21 

G-CLASS
For: Design, appeal, capability, brand value. Against: Price. Verdict: All-conquering proven SUV.
Alternatives: 1. Land Rover Defender
G 400 d Adventure 255.00 2925/6 9A 700 330 2424 100 667 265/60 R18  6.4 210 NA     NA NA
G 400 d AMG Line 255.00 2925/6 9A 700 330 2430 100 667 275/40 R20  6.4 210 NA     NA NA

MINI
COOPER 3-DOOR
For: Performance, looks. Against: Ride quality, no spare wheel, space, price. Verdict: Iconic small car with a hefty price-tag.
Alternatives: None
S 41.20 1998/4 7A 280 178 1235 44 211 195/55 R16  6.6 235 14.0     NA NA
S Connected Multitone 47.90 1998/4 7A 280 178 1235 44 211 195/55 R16  6.6 235 14.0     NA NA
SE 52.50 E, 32.6kWh 1A 270 184 1365 NA 211 205/45 R17  7.3 150 6.25     Jun 22 

COUNTRYMAN
For: Style, versatility. Against: Price. Verdict: Stylish, all-round premium compact car that you can use every day.
Alternatives: 1. BMW X1 2. Audi Q3
Cooper S JCW Inspired 47.40 1998/4 8A 280 178 1460 51 450 225/50 R18  7.5 225 11.50     Dec 18 

MORRIS GARAGES (MG MOTOR)


COMET
For: Size, equipment, technology. Against: Not much. Verdict: Compact urban electric car.
Alternatives: 1. Citroén ëC3 2. Tata Tiago EV
EV Pace 7.98 E 17.3kWh 1A 110 41 NA NA NA 145/70 R12  NA 104 NA    - NA NA
EV Play 9.28 E 17.3kWh 1A 110 41 NA NA NA 145/70 R12  NA 104 NA    - NA NA
EV Plush 9.98 E 17.3kWh 1A 110 41 NA NA NA 145/70 R12  NA 104 NA     NA NA

ZS
For: Style, equipment, fit-and-finish, safety. Against: Charging network. Verdict: Usable everyday electric car.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Kona 2. BYD Atto 3 3. Mahindra XUV400
EV Excite 22.98 E 50.3kWh 1A 280 177 1570 NA NA 215/50 R17 - 8.5 170 NA     NA NA
EV Exclusive 26.50 E 50.3kWh 1A 280 177 1610 NA NA 215/50 R17 - 8.5 170 NA     Apr 22 

ASTOR
For: Equipment, technology, safety. Against: Not much. Verdict: New-age compact SUV with a focus on safety technology.
Alternatives: 1. Volkswagen Taigun 2. Škoda Kushaq 3. Hyundai Creta 4. Kia Seltos
VTi-Tech Style EX 10.52 1451/4 6 144 110 NA 48 NA 215/60 R16  NA NA NA    - NA NA
VTi-Tech Savvy CVT 16.80 1451/4 CVT 144 110 NA 48 NA 215/55 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA
220Turbo Smart 16.78 1349/3 6A 220 140 NA 45 NA 215/55 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA
220Turbo Savvy 18.43 1349/3 6A 220 140 NA 45 NA 215/55 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA

108 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


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HECTOR
For: Equipment, space. Against: Refinement. Verdict: Stylish and well-equipped alternative MUV.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Creta 2. Jeep Compass 3. Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara
(P) Style 5-st 14.73 1451/4 6 250 143 1554 60 NA 215/60 R17  NA NA NA    - NA NA
(P) Savvy Pro CVT 5-st 21.73 1451/4 CVT 250 143 NA 60 NA 215/55 R18  NA NA 11.0     Mar 23 
Plus (P) Sharp Pro 6/7-st 20.15 1451/4 6 250 143 NA 60 NA 215/60 R17  NA NA NA    - NA NA
Plus (P) Savvy Pro CVT 6/7 22.43 1451/4 CVT 250 143 1644 60 NA 215/55 R18  NA NA NA     NA NA
(D) Smart 5-st 19.06 1956/4 6 350 170 1633 60 NA 215/60 R17  NA NA NA    - NA NA
(D) Sharp Pro 5-st 21.51 1956/4 6 350 170 1700 60 NA 215/55 R18  NA NA NA     NA NA
Plus (D) Smart 7-st 19.76 1956/4 6 350 170 NA 60 NA 215/60 R17  NA NA NA    - NA NA
Plus (D) Sharp Pro 6/7-st 22.21 1956/4 6 350 170 NA 60 NA 215/55 R18  NA NA NA     NA NA

GLOSTER
For: Interior, equipment. Against: Not much. Verdict: Capable on and off the road.
Alternatives: 1. Toyota Fortuner 2. Isuzu mu-X
Super 7-st 32.60 1996/4 8A 374 161 NA 75 NA 255/55 R19  NA NA NA    - NA NA
Savvy 6-st 4WD 41.78 1996/4 8A 479 216 NA 75 NA 255/55 R19  11.98 185 7.75     Oct 20 

NISSAN
MAGNITE
For: Value, space, comfort, design. Against: Not as sturdy as rivals. Verdict: Affordable all-rounder for all road conditions.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Venue 2. Maruti Suzuki Fronx 3. Renault Kiger
1.0 (P) XE 6.00 999/3 5 96 72 939 40 336 195/60 R16 - NA NA NA   - - NA NA
1.0 (P) Geza Edition 7.39 999/3 5 96 72 939 40 336 195/60 R16 - NA NA NA     NA NA
1.0 (P) XV Premium 8.59 999/3 5 96 72 939 40 336 195/60 R16 - NA NA NA     NA NA
Turbo (P) XL 8.25 999/3 5 160 100 1014 40 336 195/60 R16 - NA NA NA    - NA NA
Turbo (P) XV Premium 9.72 999/3 5 160 100 1014 40 336 195/60 R16 - NA NA NA    - NA NA
Turbo (P) XV CVT 10.16 999/3 CVT 152 100 1039 40 336 195/60 R16  NA NA 12.3     NA NA
Turbo (P) XV Premium CVT 10.66 999/3 CVT 152 100 1039 40 336 195/60 R16  NA NA 12.3     Jan 21 

PORSCHE
718 CAYMAN
For: Size, performance, quality. Against: Options can get pricey. Verdict: True-blue compact Porsche sports car feel.
Alternatives: 1. Jaguar F-Type 2. BMW M4
718 Cayman 147.72 1988/4 7A 380 300 1365 54 425 265/45 R18  5.1 275 NA     NA NA
718 Cayman GTS 4.0 167.51 3996/6 7A 430 400 1405 64 420 265/35 R20  4.5 293 NA     NA NA
718 Cayman GT4 181.67 3996/6 6 420 420 1420 64 420 295/30 R20  4.4 304 NA     NA NA
718 Cayman GT4 RS 274.43 3996/6 7A 450 500 1415 54 261 295/30 R20  3.4 315 NA     NA NA

718 BOXSTER
For: Driver appeal, handling, performance. Against: Price. Verdict: Engaging and enthralling everyday sports car.
Alternatives: 1. BMW Z4 2. Jaguar F-Type
718 Boxster 152.13 1988/4 7A 380 300 1365 54 275 265/40 R19  5.1 275 8.75     Jul 17 
718 Boxster GTS 4.0 171.95 3995/6 7A 430 400 1405 64 275 265/35 R20  4.5 293 NA     NA NA
718 Spyder 177.88 3995/6 6 420 420 1420 64 275 295/30 R20  4.4 301 NA     NA NA
718 Spyder RS BO 3996/6 7A 450 500 1415 54 NA 295/30 R20  3.4 308 NA     NA NA

911
For: Over 50 years later, still a revered sports cars. Against: Price. Verdict: Iconic sports car keeps getting better.
Alternatives: 1. McLaren GT/720S (Turbo S) 2. Ferrari Roma 3. Lamborghini Huracán (GT3/Turbo) 4. Maserati MC20
Carrera 186.46 2981/6 8A 450 385 1505 64 135 295/30 R20  4.2 293 NA     NA NA
Carrera T 194.30 2981/6 7 450 385 1470 64 135 305/30 R21  4.5 291 NA     NA NA
Carrera Cabriolet 197.32 2981/6 8A 550 450 1575 64 135 295/30 R20  4.4 291 NA     NA NA
Carrera S 201.17 2981/6 8A 550 450 1510 64 135 305/30 R21  3.7 308 NA     NA NA
Carrera S Cabriolet 217.92 2981/6 8A 550 450 1585 64 135 305/30 R21  3.9 306 NA     NA NA
GT3 274.96 3996/6 7A 470 510 1435 64 132 305/30 R20  3.4 318 NA     NA NA
GT3 RS 350.56 3996/6 7A 465 525 1450 64 - 335/30 R21  3.2 296 NA     NA NA
S/T 426.20 3996/6 6 465 525 1380 64 132 335/30 R21  3.7 300 NA     NA NA
Turbo S 335.36 3745/6 8A 800 650 1640 67 128 315/30 R21  2.7 330 NA     NA NA

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 109


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PANAMERA
For: Luxury, handling,performance. Against: Price. Verdict: Revitalised 911 for four.
Alternatives: 1. Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupé 2. BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo 3. Maserati Quattroporte
Panamera 158.04 2894/6 8A 450 330 1865 75 500 275/40 R18  5.6 270 NA     NA NA
GTS 202.68 3996/8 8A 620 480 1995 90 500 285/40 R19  3.9 300 NA     NA NA
Turbo S 234.86 3996/8 8A 820 630 2080 90 500 325/30 R21  3.1 315 5.5     Jun 23 
Turbo S E-hybrid 275.90 3996/8 8A 870 700 2350 80 403 325/30 R21  3.2 315 NA     NA NA

MACAN
For: A sports car with high ground clearance. Against: Price. Verdict: A compact SUV off the road, a sports car on it.
Alternatives: 1. BMW X3 2. Maserati Levante 3. Jaguar F-Pace
Macan 88.06 1984/4 7A 400 265 1845 65 488 255/50 R19  6.2 232 NA     NA NA
Macan S 143.52 2994/6 7A 520 380 1930 65 488 295/40 R20  4.6 259 NA     NA NA
Macan GTS 153.47 2994/6 7A 550 440 1960 65 488 295/35 R21  4.3 272 NA     NA NA

CAYENNE
For: Performance, refinement, driver appeal. Against: Price. Verdict: If you want a big sports car with a high ground clearance...
Alternatives: 1. Maserati Levante 2. BMW X5 3. Land Rover Range Rover Sport
Cayenne 135.61 2995/6 8A 500 353 NA 75 656 275/50 R19  6.0 248 NA     NA NA

CAYENNE COUPÉ
For: Performance, refinement, styling, driver appeal. Against: Price. Verdict: Just what was needed: a sportier Cayenne.
Alternatives: 1. Maserati Levante 2. Land Rover Range Rover Sport
Cayenne Coupé 141.85 2995/6 8A 500 353 NA 75 598 275/50 R19  6.0 248 NA     NA NA

TAYCAN
For: Style, handling, ride quality, equipment. Against: Price. Verdict: Porsche's sport-luxury electric four-door.
Alternatives: 1. Audi e-tron GT 2. BMW i7 3. Mercedes EQS
Taycan 160.83 E, 79.2kWh 2A 345 408 2050 NA 407 275/45 R19  5.4 230 3.6     May 22 
Taycan (Perf batt Plus) 169.16 E, 93.4kWh 2A 357 476 2130 NA 407 275/45 R19  5.4 230 NA     NA NA
Taycan 4S 175.35 E, 93.4kWh 1+2A 650 571 2140 NA 407 285/40 R20  4.0 250 NA     NA NA
Taycan GTS 203.53 E, 93.4kWh 1+2A 850 598 2295 NA 407 305/30 R21  3.7 250 NA     NA NA
Taycan Turbo 223.09 E, 93.4kWh 1+2A 850 680 2305 NA 407 305/30 R21  3.2 260 NA     NA NA
Taycan Turbo S 243.72 E, 93.4kWh 1+2A 1050 761 2315 NA 407 305/30 R21  2.8 260 4.5     Jun 23 
4S Cross Turismo 173.68 E, 93.4kWh 1+2A 650 571 2245 NA 446 275/45 R19  4.1 240 NA     NA NA
Turbo Cross Turismo 225.00 E, 93.4kWh 1+2A 850 680 2320 NA 405 305/30 R21  3.3 250 NA     NA NA

RENAULT
KWID
For: Ride, handling, space, practicality. Against: Safety equipment. Verdict: Very capable compact car with excellent ride quality.
Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki Alto 2. Maruti Suzuki S-presso
1.0 RxE 4.70 999/3 5 91 68 789 28 300 165/70 R14 - NA NA NA -  - - NA NA
1.0 Climber RxT Easy-R 5.52 999/3 5A 91 68 793 28 300 165/70 R14 - NA NA NA F   - NA NA

TRIBER
For: Space, ergonomics, equipment, flexibility. Against: Slightly underwhelming acceleration. Verdict: A uniquely flexible offering.
Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki Ertiga
RxE 6.34 999/3 5 96 72 947 40 84 165/80 R14 - NA NA NA -  - - NA NA
RxZ 8.23 999/3 5 96 72 951 40 84 185/65 R15 - 18.36 146 13.0    - Feb 20 
RxT Easy-R 8.13 999/3 5A 96 72 NA 40 84 185/65 R15 - NA NA NA    - NA NA
RxZ Easy-R Dual-tone 8.98 999/3 5A 96 72 NA 40 84 185/65 R15 - 21.17 132.8 12.0    - Sepp 20 

KIGER
For: Practicaliy, equipment, space, fit-and-finish. Against: Not much. Verdict: An evolved compact crossover for the urban jungle.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Venue 2. Nissan Magnite 3. Maruti Suzuki Fronx
Energy RxE 6.50 999/3 5 96 72 1012 40 405 195/60 R16 - NA NA NA -  - - NA NA
Energy RxZ Easy-R 9.35 999/3 5A 96 72 NA 40 405 195/60 R16 - NA NA NA     NA NA
Turbo RxT(O) 9.45 999/3 5 160 100 NA 40 405 195/60 R16 - NA NA NA    - NA NA
Turbo RxZ XTronic 11.00 999/3 CVT 152 100 NA 40 405 195/60 R16 - NA NA NA     NA NA

110 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


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ROLLS-ROYCE
GHOST
For: Luxury, brand value. Against: Price? Verdict: The most accessible step to the iconic British luxury brand.
Alternatives: 1. Bentley Flying Spur 3. Mercedes-Maybach S-Class
Ghost 800.00 6749/12 8A 850 571 NA NA NA 255/45 R20  NA 250 NA     NA NA
Ghost Extended 915.00 6749/12 8A 850 571 2530 NA NA 255/45 R20  NA 250 NA     NA NA
Black Badge Ghost 1225.00 6749/12 8A 900 600 NA NA NA 255/40 R21  NA 250 NA     NA NA

PHANTOM
For: Unmatched luxury, massive presence. Against: Price. Verdict: The best car in the world. A luxury yacht for the road.
Alternatives: None; consider a luxury yacht for the seas, maybe.
Phantom 1035.00 6749/12 8A 900 571 2560 NA 548 275/35 R22  NA 250 NA     NA NA
Phantom Extended 1210.00 6749/12 8A 900 571 2610 NA 548 275/35 R22  NA 250 NA     NA NA

CULLINAN
For: Luxury, presence, all-road capability. Against: Price. Verdict: The definitive high-roller.
Alternatives: 1. Bentley Bentayga
Cullinan 800.00 6749/12 8A 850 571 2660 100 600 275/40 R22  NA NA NA     NA NA
Black Badge Cullinan 1225.00 6749/12 8A 900 600 2660 100 600 275/40 R22  NA NA NA     NA NA

ŠKODA
SLAVIA
For: Ride quality, equipment, handling. Against: No diesel option. Verdict: A new-age premium compact sedan.
Alternatives: 1. Honda City 2. Hyundai Verna 3. Maruti Suzuki Ciaz
1.0 TSI Active 11.39 999/3 6 178 115 NA 50 521 185/65 R15  NA NA NA     NA NA
1.0 TSI Style AT 16.00 999/3 6A 178 115 1210 50 521 205/55 R16  NA NA 12.0     May 22 
1.5 TSI Ambition 14.94 1498/4 6 250 150 NA 50 521 205/55 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA
1.5 TSI Style DSG 18.40 1498/4 7A 250 150 1278 50 521 205/55 R16  NA NA 13.6     May 22 

SUPERB
For: Build, comfort, luxury, presence, performance, equipment. Against: No diesel option. Verdict: Well-equipped luxury sedan.
Alternatives: 1. Toyota Camry Hybrid
2.0 TSI DSG Sportline 34.19 1984/4 7A 320 190 1460 66 625 215/55 R17  8.13 206 9.5     NA NA
2.0 TSI DSG L&K 37.29 1984/4 7A 320 190 1460 66 625 215/55 R17  8.13 206 9.5     Aug 20 

KUSHAQ
For: Build, comfort, practicality. Against: No diesel option. Verdict: Practical and convenient all-road vehicle.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Creta 2. Renault Duster
1.0 TSI Active 11.59 999/3 6 178 115 NA 50 385 205/60 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA
1.0 TSI Monte Carlo AT 18.49 999/3 6A 178 115 NA 50 385 205/55 R17  NA NA 13.5     Sep 21 
1.5 TSI Ambition 14.99 1498/4 6 250 150 NA 50 385 205/55 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA
1.5 TSI Monte Carlo DSG 19.69 1498/4 7A 250 150 NA 50 385 205/55 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA

KODIAQ
For: Build, comfort, luxury, equipment. Against: No diesel option. Verdict: All the seven-seater you'll ever need.
Alternatives: 1. Toyota Fortuner
2.0 TSI DSG 4x4 Style 37.99 1984/4 7A 320 190 1774 58 270 235/55 R18  7.3 NA 9.5     NA NA
2.0 TSI DSG 4x4 L&K 41.39 1984/4 7A 320 190 1790 58 270 235/55 R18  7.3 NA 9.5     Feb 22 

TATA MOTORS
TIAGO
For: Style, performance, handling, efficiency. Against: Auto shift quality. Verdict: Good, practical overall package.
Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki WagonR 2. Maruti Suzuki Celerio 3. Citroën ëC3 (EV)
Revotron (P) XE 5.60 1199/3 5 113 86 935 35 242 175/65 R14 - 16.44 154.9 15.3 - - - - Jun 16 
Revotron (P) XZA+DT 7.76 1199/3 5A 113 86 1006 35 242 175/65 R14 - 17.81 138.9 12.5     Dec 18 
Revotron (P) NRG AMT 7.66 1199/3 5A 113 86 1015 35 242 175/60 R15 - 16.44 154.9 15.3     NA NA
iCNG (P+CNG) XE 6.50 1199/3 5 95 73 NA 35 NA 175/65 R14 - NA NA NA     NA NA
 iCNG (P+CNG) XZ+ 8.01 1199/3 5A 95 73 NA 35 NA 175/65 R14 - NA NA NA     NA NA
EV XE 3.3kW 8.69 E 19.2kWh 1A 110 61 1100 NA 240 175/65 R14 - NA 120 NA   -  NA NA
EV XZ+Tech Lux LR 7.2kW 11.99 E 24kWh 1A 114 75 1150 NA 240 175/65 R14 - NA 120 7.5     Jul 23 

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 111


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Tata Motors Toyota

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ALTROZ
For: Style, equipment, safety, handling. Against: Interior quality. Verdict: Tata's premium hatch challenger offers a lot.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai i20 2. Maruti Suzuki Baleno 3. Toyota Glanza
Revotron (P) XE 6.45 1199/3 5 115 88 1030 37 345 165/80 R14 - NA NA NA F  - - NA NA
Revotron (P) XZA+ 10.00 1199/3 6A 115 88 1056 37 345 195/55 R16 - NA NA 10.75     Apr 22 
iCNG (P+CNG) XE 7.55 1199/3 5 103 73.5 NA 35 NA 165/80 R45 - NA NA NA     NA NA
iCNG (P+CNG) XZ+O(S) 10.54 1199/3 5 103 73.5 NA 35 NA 195/55 R16 - NA NA NA     NA NA
i-Turbo (P) XZ 9.00 1199/3 5 140 110 1058 37 345 165/80 R14 - NA NA NA     NA NA
i-Turbo (P) XZ+ Dark 9.70 1199/3 5 140 110 1058 37 345 195/55 R16 - NA NA NA     NA NA
Revotorq (D) XE+ 8.00 1497/4 5 200 90 1150 37 345 165/80 R14 - 13.26 161.4 17.63 F  - - NA NA
Revotorq (D) XZ+ Dark 10.40 1497/4 5 200 90 1150 37 345 185/60 R16 - 13.26 161.4 17.63     Aug 20 

TIGOR
For: Design, safety. Against: Quality, fit-and-finish. Verdict: Stylish sub-four-metre sedan alternative.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Aura 2. Honda Amaze 3. Maruti Suzuki Dzire
Revotron (P) 1.2 XE 6.30 1199/3 5 113 86 1035 35 419 155/80 R13 - 17.72 148.1 12.5     Sep 17 
Revotron (P) 1.2 XZA+ 8.46 1199/3 5A 113 86 1074 35 419 175/60 R15 - NA NA NA     NA NA
iCNG (P+CNG) XM 7.70 1199/3 5A 95 73 NA 35 NA 175/60 R15 - NA NA NA     NA NA
iCNG (P+CNG) XZ+ 8.76 1199/3 5A 95 73 NA 35 NA 175/60 R15 - NA NA NA     NA NA
EV XE 12.49 E 26kWh 1A 170 75 NA NA 255 175/65 R14 - NA NA NA     NA NA
EV XZ+ Lux 13.75 E 26kWh 1A 170 75 NA NA 255 175/65 R14 - NA NA NA     NA NA

PUNCH
For: Style, equipment, safety. Against: Quality and consistency. Verdict: Modern "micro-SUV".
Alternatives: 1. Citroën C3 2. Maruti Suzuki Ignis 3. Renault Triber
Pure (P) 6.00 1199/3 5 115 87.8 1313 37 366 185/70 R15 - NA NA NA -  - - NA NA
Creative (P) iRA AMT DT 9.47 1199/3 5A 115 87.8 NA 37 366 195/60 R16 - NA NA 14.5     Dec 22 
iCNG (P+CNG) Pure 7.10 1199/3 5 103 73.5 NA 35 NA 165/80 R45 - NA NA NA     NA NA
iCNG (P+CNG) Dazzle S 9.68 1199/3 5 103 73.5 NA 35 NA 195/55 R16 - NA NA NA     NA NA

NEXON
For: Exterior styling, equipment. Against: Ergonomics, fit-and-finish, practicality. Verdict: A stylish compact offering from Tata.
Alternatives: 1. Maruti Suzuki Brezza 2. Kia Sonet 3. Renault Kiger 4. MG ZS EV (Nexon EV)
Revotron (P) XE 7.60 1198/3 6 170 120 NA 44 350 195/60 R16 - NA NA NA F  - - NA NA
Revotron (P) XZA+ Dark 12.65 1198/3 6A 170 120 NA 44 350 215/60 R16 - NA NA NA     NA NA
Revotorq (D) XM 9.90 1497/4 6 260 110 NA 44 350 195/60 R16 - NA NA NA F  - - NA NA
Revotorq (D) XZA+ Dark 13.95 1497/4 6A 260 110 NA 44 350 215/60 R16 - NA NA NA     NA NA
EV Prime XM 3.3kW 16.49 E 30.2kWh 1A 245 129 1400 NA 350 215/60 R16 - NA NA NA F  - - NA NA
EV Max XZ+ Lux 7.2kW 19.29 E 40.5kWh 1A 250 143 NA NA 350 215/60 R16 - NA NA NA     NA NA

HARRIER
For: Style, presence. Against: Fit-and-finish, ergonomics (manual). Verdict: Tata's stylish mid-size SUV.
Alternatives: 1. Jeep Compass 2. Hyundai Creta 3. MG Hector
XE 15.00 1956/4 6 350 170 NA 50 425 235/70 R16  NA NA NA   - - NA NA
XZA+(O) Red Dark 24.07 1956/4 6A 350 170 NA 50 425 235/65 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA

SAFARI
For: Space, flexibility. Against: Steering feel. Verdict: A venerable name reborn for the new decade.
Alternatives: 1. Mahindra XUV700 2. MG Hector Plus
XE 15.65 1956/4 6 350 170 NA 50 NA 235/65 R17  NA NA NA   - - NA NA
XZA+(O) Red Dark 24.92 1956/4 6A 350 170 NA 50 NA 235/60 R18  NA NA NA     NA NA

TOYOTA
GLANZA
For: Equipment. Against: Not much. Verdict: Toyota's entry in the premium hatch space.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai i20 2. Maruti Suzuki Baleno
E MT 6.81 1197/4 5 113 89 920 37 318 185/60 R15 - NA NA NA     NA NA
V MT 9.73 1197/4 5 113 89 955 37 318 195/55 R16 - NA NA NA     NA NA
S AT 8.25 1197/4 5A 113 89 935 37 318 185/60 R15 - NA NA NA     NA NA
V AT 10.00 1197/4 5A 113 89 960 37 318 195/55 R16 - NA NA NA     NA NA
S CNG 8.60 1197/4 5 113 89 NA 37 NA 185/60 R15 - NA NA NA     NA NA

112 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


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CAMRY
For: Space, comfort, interior, equipment. Against: Not much. Verdict: Amongst the most comfortable chauffeur-driven cars.
Alternatives: 1. Škoda Superb
Hybrid 46.17 2487/4 CVT NA 218 1665 50 454 235/45 R18  9.49 187 15.25     Jun 19 

RUMION
For: Value for money, space, ergonomics. Against: Limited third row or boot volume. Verdict: Value-for-money people-carrier.
Alternatives: 1. Kia Carens 2. Renault Triber 3. Maruti Suzuki Ertiga
S 10.29 1462/4 5 137 103 1170 45 209 185/65 R15  NA NA NA   - - NA NA
V AT 13.68 1462/4 6A 137 103 1205 45 209 185/65 R15  NA NA NA     NA NA
S CNG 11.24 1462/4 5 121.5 88 1250 45/60 NA 185/65 R15  NA NA NA     NA NA

URBAN CRUISER HYRYDER


For: Comfort, equipment, ride quality. Against: Not much. Verdict: A new-age mid-size SUV with loads of tech inside and out.
Alternatives: 1. Volkswagen Taigun 2. Hyundai Creta 3. Škoda Kushaq 4. Kia Seltos
neoDrive E 10.86 1462/4 5 135 102 1155 45 375 215/60 R17 - NA NA NA    - NA NA
neoDrive S AT 13.81 1462/4 6A 135 102 1190 45 375 215/60 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA
neoDrive V AWD 17.34 1462/4 5 135 102 1275 45 375 215/60 R17  NA NA NA     Aug 23 
CNG S 13.56 1462/4 5 121.5 88 NA 45 NA 215/60 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA
Hybrid S 16.46 1490/3 eCVT NA 116 1270 45 265 215/60 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA
Hybrid V 19.99 1490/3 eCVT NA 116 1310 45 265 215/60 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA

INNOVA CRYSTA
For: Comfort, interior, ride, efficiency. Against: Not much. Verdict: A legend of an MPV.
Alternatives: 1. Mahindra XUV700 2. Kia Carens 3. MG Hector Plus
2.4D G (SLF, flt) 19.38 2393/4 5 343 150 1815 55 NA 205/60 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA
2.4D GX (7-st/8-st) 19.99 2393/4 5 343 150 1815 55 NA 205/60 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA
2.4D ZX (7-st) 25.68 2393/4 5 343 150 1815 55 NA 215/55 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA

INNOVA HYCROSS
For: Comfort, interior, equipment, ride, handling. Against: Not much. Verdict: A further improved creation that raises the game.
Alternatives: 1. Kia Carens/Carnival 2. Maruti Suzuki Invicto
2.0P G (SLF) 18.82 1987/4 CVT 209 174 1725 52 NA 205/65 R16  NA 80 NA     NA NA
2.0P GX 8-st 19.67 1987/4 CVT 209 174 1725 52 NA 205/65 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA
Hybrid VX 7-st 25.30 1987/4 eCVT NA 186 1758 52 NA 215/60 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA
Hybrid ZX(O) 30.26 1987/4 eCVT NA 186 1758 52 690 225/50 R18  NA NA 21.0     Jun 23 


FORTUNER
For: Space, refinement, reliability. Against: Big, cumbersome in traffic. Verdict: Good combination of on- and off-road vehicle.
Alternatives: 1. Isuzu mu-X 2. MG Gloster
2.7P 32.99 2694/4 5 245 166 1985 80 NA 265/65 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA
2.7P A/T 34.58 2694/4 6A 245 166 1985 80 NA 265/65 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA
2.8D 35.49 2755/4 6 420 204 2085 80 NA 265/65 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA
2.8D 4x4 A/T 41.62 2755/4 6A 500 204 2210 80 NA 265/60 R18  NA NA 9.13     NA NA
Legender 4x2 A/T 43.22 2755/4 6A 500 204 2085 80 NA 265/60 R18  NA NA NA     NA NA
Legender 4x4 A/T 46.94 2755/4 6A 500 204 2210 80 NA 265/60 R18  NA NA 9.13     Mar 22 
GR-S (2.8D 4x4 AT) 50.74 2755/4 6A 500 204 2210 80 NA 265/60 R18  NA NA 9.13     NA NA

HILUX
For: Practicality, build quality, equipment. Against: Price. Verdict: A globally-renowned lifestyle pick-up truck.
Alternatives: 1. Isuzu D-Max V-Cross
2.8D 4x4 30.40 2755/4 6 420 204 2055 80 NA 265/65 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA
2.8D 4x4 High 37.15 2755/4 6 420 204 NA 80 NA 265/60 R18  NA NA NA     NA NA
2.8D 4x4 High A/T 37.90 2755/4 6A 500 204 2212 80 NA 265/60 R18  NA NA NA     NA NA

VELLFIRE
For: Comfort, ride quality, equipment, efficiency. Against: Price. Verdict: A luxury vehicle like few others.
Alternatives: 1. Lexus LM
Hi 119.90 2494/4 eCVT 325 250 2250 60 NA 225/55 R19  NA NA NA     NA NA
VIP Executive Lounge 129.90 2494/4 eCVT 325 250 2250 60 NA 225/55 R19  NA NA NA     NA NA

LAND CRUISER 300


For: Luxury, size, heritage. Against: Price. Verdict: Premium SUV that isn't afraid of the rough stuff.
Alternatives: 1. BMW X7 2. Land Rover Range Rover
VX D 210.00 3346/6 10A 700 309 2630 80 174 265/65 R18  8.0 210 NA     NA NA

www.carindia.in September 2023 CAR INDIA 113


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Volkswagen Volvo

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VOLKSWAGEN
VIRTUS
For: Space, ride quality, handling, build quality. Against: No diesel option. Verdict: A complete sedan.
Alternatives: 1. Škoda Slavia 2. Hyundai Verna 3. Honda City
1.0 TSi Comfortline 11.48 999/3 6 178 115 1160 50 521 185/60 R15 - NA NA NA    - Oct 22 
1.0 TSi Topline AT 16.20 999/3 6A 178 115 1240 50 521 205/55 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA
1.5 TSi GT Plus 16.27 1498/4 6 250 150 1225 50 521 205/55 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA
1.5 TSi GT DSG 16.20 1498/4 7A 250 150 1275 50 521 205/55 R16  NA NA 12.9     NA NA
1.5 TSi GT Plus DSG 18.57 1498/4 7A 250 150 1275 50 521 205/55 R16  NA NA 12.9     Jun 22 

TAIGUN
For: Build, comfort, handling, practicality. Against: No diesel option. Verdict: Practical and robust all-road vehicle.
Alternatives: 1. Škoda Kushaq 2. Hyundai Creta 3. MG Astor
1.0 TSI Comfortline 11.62 999/3 6 178 115 1195 50 385 205/60 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA
1.0 TSI Topline AT 17.35 999/3 6A 178 115 1275 50 385 205/55 R17  NA NA NA     NA NA
1.5 TSI GT Plus 16.26 1498/4 6 250 150 1260 50 385 205/60 R16  NA NA NA     NA NA
1.5 TSI GT Plus DSG 19.06 1498/4 7A 250 150 1310 50 385 205/55 R17  NA NA 13.63     Nov 21 

TIGUAN
For: Performance, comfort, safety. Against: Price, fuel efficiency. Verdict: Globally noted premium crossover SUV packs a punch.
Alternatives: 1. Hyundai Tucson 2. Toyota Fortuner
2.0 TSI 4MOTION Elegance 34.20 1984/4 7A 320 190 1703 60 615 235/55 R18  7.7 213 9.75     Jan 22 

VOLVO
S90
For: Safety, practicality, comfort, style. Against: Rear knee-room. Verdict: A step up from the S80.
Alternatives: 1. BMW 5 Series 2. Audi A6 3. Mercedes-Benz E-Class
B5 Ultimate 67.90 1969/4 8A 350 250 1790 60 461 245/40 R19  6.9 180 10.0     Jan 22 

XC40
For: Safety, interior, practicality, efficiency. Against: Not much. Verdict: Stylish and modern compact SUV.
Alternatives: 1. Audi Q3 2. BMW X1 3. Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class
B4 Ultimate 46.40 1969/4 8A 300 197 1610 54 460 235/55 R18  NA 180 NA     NA NA

XC60
For: Safety, style, equipment. Against: Not much. Verdict: Practical, safe, value-for-money family luxury car.
Alternatives: 1. BMW X3 2. Audi Q5 3. Land Rover Range Rover Velar
B5 AWD Inscription 67.50 1969/4 8A 350 250 1900 71 505 235/55 R19  6.9 180 13.25     Dec 21 

XC90
For: Comfort, safety, technology, handling, style. Against: Not much. Verdict: Big all-round Volvo for up to seven occupants.
Alternatives: 1. BMW X7 2. Land Rover Discovery 3. Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class 4. Lexus RX
B6 AWD Inscription 98.50 1969/4 8A 420 300 2070 71 709 275/45 R20  NA 180 NA     NA NA

XC40 RECHARGE
For: Safety, practicality, refinement. Against: Limited infrastructure. Verdict: Volvo's first all-electric compact luxury SUV.
Alternatives: 1. Mercedes EQB 2. Kia EV6 3. Audi Q8 e-tron
Twin 56.90 E, 78kWh 1/1A 660 408 2188 - 419 255/45 R19  4.9 180 NA     NA NA

C40 RECHARGE
For: Safety, practicality, refinement. Against: Limited infrastructure. Verdict: Volvo's sporty all-electric luxury offering.
Alternatives: 1. Kia EV6
Twin 61.25 E, 78kWh 1/1A 660 408 2185 - 413 255/45 R19  4.7 180 NA     NA NA

114 CAR INDIA September 2023 www.carindia.in


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