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Car and Bike news, reviews and videos.Copyright 2022 Haymarket Media Pty. Ltd.Sat, 23 Apr 2022 09:58:46 +100010New Mercedes Benz C Class India launch in May
Mercedes-Benz has confirmed that the new C-Class sedan will be introduced in India this year. Sources say that the next-gen W206 C-Class, which was launched internationally in mid-2021, could be in showrooms as early as May 2022. Martin Schwenk, MD and CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, told Autocar India in a recent interview that the company will bring the fifth-gen sedan “in 2022”. He mentioned that the C-Class will be a volume model and will drive the double-digit growth in the company’s overall sales numbers expected this year.
Current C-Class stocks depleted; new C-Class launch not far off
V8-powered Maybach S 580 to arrive in March
Mercedes to expand retail network for AMG models
Mercedes-Benz India held on to its leader position in the luxury car market last year, with sales of 11,242 cars. Schwenk said that the outgoing C-Class had racked up “a significant volume in 2021”. “The new C-Class is a great car and I’m sure it will serve its purpose and further drive up volumes,” he added.
New Mercedes C Class launch around May 2022
“We had a very good run out of the existing C-Class,” commented Schwenk. With stocks of the outgoing model all but cleared out, the German marque is missing a key product in its portfolio. “We will not keep that gap for much longer,” chimed in the Mercedes boss, alluding that the new C-Class launch isn’t far off. However, he added, “We need to align our launches with the waves of COVID. So, let’s see.”
The latest-gen C-Class made its world debut almost a year ago. The W206 model sees its wheelbase and overall length grow by 25mm and 65mm, respectively, promising more cabin room. With sharper styling and new tech on offer, including a large, tablet-style touchscreen infotainment system, the C-Class has been brought in line with the latest generation of Mercedes-Benz models, including the new S-Class limousine.
Globally, the new C-Class is exclusively powered by electrified, four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines. And though it remains to be seen which powertrains are brought to our market, one could look forward to the company introducing its 48V mild-hybrid tech to the India line-up as well. For reference, Indian customers had the choice of two, 2.0-litre, four-cylinder engines – a 204hp turbo-petrol (C200) and a 194hp diesel (C220d) – on the outgoing sedan, which was priced from Rs 50 lakh-51.74 lakh (ex-showroom, India).
We had reported a year ago that the new Mercedes-Maybach S 580 limousine will be assembled at the company’s Chakan plant near Pune, and now the automaker has confirmed the news. “We are introducing the (new) Maybach S-Class and have planned it for March this year,” said Schwenk in a media interaction.
For the uninitiated, the Maybach S-Class (codename: Z223) is 180mm longer than even the long-wheelbase S-Class sedan (V223) sold here. In addition to a larger footprint, elements that help it stand out are the signature Maybach grille, central chrome fin on the bonnet, chrome accents on the bumpers, 34-spoke alloy wheels, Maybach insignias on the C-pillars and an optional, two-tone body paint.
On the inside, the Maybach gets all the trappings of a luxury limousine, including exclusive materials and finishes, and individual ‘Executive’ rear seats with a ‘Chauffeur package’ as standard.
Under the hood of the S 580 lies a 500hp, twin-turbo V8 petrol engine, with 48V mild hybrid tech and a four-wheel-drive system. Expect the model to be priced at around Rs 2.5 crore (estimated, ex-showroom).
Mercedes AMG GT Black Series in India
During the media interaction, Mercedes-Benz India also confirmed the launch of the AMG GT Black Series. However, our sources tell us that the automaker had a very limited allocation of the sportscar for the Indian market, which has already been sold out before the official launch.
The Black Series coupe features the most powerful AMG V8 to be ever fitted to a series production model. The 4.0-litre petrol engine puts out 730hp and 800Nm of torque to the rear wheel via a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox. In addition to the potent powertrain, lightweighting measures, like the extensive use of carbon-fibre throughout the body, and plenty of aero trickery make this Porsche 911 GT2 RS rival capable of a 0-100kph sprint in a scant 3.2sec.
After beginning the local assembly of select AMG models in India in late 2020, the brand is now looking to expand its retail network. “In the past years, we have seen a stronger growth in the AMG portfolio than in the overall (Mercedes) brand. We will continue to focus on AMG (this year). In line with this approach, we will add additional AMG Performance Centres across major cities in India in 2022,” Schwenk told the media at its annual meet.
Would you choose the new C-class over its rivals? Let us know in the comments below.
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Autocar India News DeskAutocar India News DeskNew Mercedes Benz C Class India launch in May2461402461401Mon, 17 Jan 2022 17:00:00 +1000423258Autocar India News DeskAutocar India staff photograherMon, 17 Jan 2022 17:10:07 +1000In addition to the fifth-gen W206 C-class, the Maybach S-class limousine has also been confirmed as part of Mercedes-Benz India’s 2022 new model offensive.In addition to the fifth-gen W206 C-class, the Maybach S-class limousine has also been confirmed as part of Mercedes-Benz India’s 2022 new model offensive.Mon, 17 Jan 2022 17:00:00 +1000"new mercedes c class india launch confirmed for 2022"
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423258Next-gen BMW M2 to be unveiled in 2022
The second-generation BMWM2 will pack in even more performance, courtesy of a new engine and gearbox. It will also be packaged in a sharper and sleeker design.
New engine will possibly boost power figures as high as 410hp
7-speed twin-clutch gearbox will be replaced by an 8-speed torque converter
The M2 will continue with rear-wheel drive only, no four-wheel drive planned
BMW is working hard on the second-generation of its M2, and the 2022 version of this hot coupe is expected to hit showrooms by the end of next year. Punchier performance is expected, thanks to the current N55 and S55 engines being replaced by a new S58 unit.
2022 BMW M2: Engine and gearbox
Key elements of this new engine include a newly designed crankcase, a longer stroke, a reworked cylinder head and a more efficient induction system. It will now use two mono-scroll turbochargers in place of the single turbocharger in the engine it replaces. This engine will also be updated to Euro 7 emission norms over the course of the M2’s seven-year life-cycle.
To go with the new engine, the 2022 M2 will also feature a new gearbox. An 8-speed torque-converter automatic will replace the current 7-speed dual-clutch design. As before, a 6-speed manual option will continue to be offered too. While the M3 and M4 have recently received four-wheel drive versions, there are no plans for an xDrive M2 at the moment.
2022 BMW M2: Platform and suspension
As a result of being built on BMW’s new CLAR (Cluster Architecture) platform, the new 2 Series will provide a 40 percent increase in body rigidity compared with the structure used by the current model. Suspension setup will comprise of a heavily reworked MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension. According to BMW M engineers, one advantage of this new setup is its ability to support increased front camber. It will be available with the choice of either lift-related or variable dampers.
2022 BMW M2: Design
It goes without saying that the 2022 M2 will feature an all-new look as well. Spy shots show a sharper and sleeker appearance, closely related to that of the upcoming M240i xDrive. Distinguishing elements include a new-look front end with a lower and wider kidney grille than that seen on today’s M2 Competition. The standard LED headlights also adopt a more angular design and will be offered with optional laser projectors too. Like many recent M models, the tail-lights have a sculpted look with OLED graphics, and the boot slopes down neatly towards the rear and receives a larger lip spoiler than today’s model for added downforce. A wider diffuser is also integrated into the bottom of the rear bumper.
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Autocar India News DeskAutocar India News DeskNext-gen BMW M2 to be unveiled in 2022Image used for representation only.2461402461401Thu, 10 Jun 2021 09:00:00 +1000421047Autocar India News DeskAutocar India staff photograherThu, 10 Jun 2021 09:57:50 +1000More power and torque and a sharper, sleeker design are some of the things in store for the updated M2.More power and torque and a sharper, sleeker design are some of the things in store for the updated M2.Thu, 10 Jun 2021 09:00:00 +1000"next-gen bmw m2 to hit showrooms by next year"
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421047BMW 220i Sport launched at Rs 37.90 lakh
The BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe is now available in a new entry level 220i Sport petrol trim. Priced at Rs 37.90 lakh (ex-showroom), the 220i Sport costs about Rs 3 lakh less than the fully-loaded 220i M Sport but misses out on some of the equipment.
220i Sport misses out on digital instrument cluster, gesture control and more
Sits on smaller 17-inch alloy wheels
Costs about Rs 3 lakh less than the 220i M Sport and Rs 2.5 lakh less than the 220d Sportline
BMW 220i Sport: What’s different?
Starting with the exterior, the 220i Sport lacks the sportier design bits available on the 220i M Sport variant and sits on smaller 17-inch alloy wheels compared to the latter’s 18-inchers.
Inside, a notable absence is the 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and touchscreen. Unlike the petrol 220i M Sport, the 220i Sport gets conventional analogue dials in place of a digital display and a smaller 8.8-inch touchscreen though it retains the voice assistant. The smaller touchscreen also misses out on the 3D maps function available with the navigation system on the 10.25-inch unit. An interesting point to note is that the entry-level diesel 220d Sportline does get the twin 10.25-inch displays. The 220i Sport also gets a unique trim insert on the dashboard and a different steering wheel from the M Sport variant.
The 220i Sport also misses out on bits such as LED foglamps, a wireless phone charger, 205W Hi-Fi audio system and gesture control available on the 220i M Sport though it does get kit such as a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control, LED headlamps, ambient lighting, cruise control, paddle shifters, powered front seats, rear view camera, six airbags, ABS, ESC and traction control.
BMW 220i Sport: Engine and Gearbox
Like with the 220i M Sport that launched earlier this year, the 220i Sport is powered by a 190hp, 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. BMW claims a 0-100kph sprint time of 7.1 seconds for the petrol four-door coupe.
BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe rivals
The 2 Series Gran Coupe will rival the upcoming Mercedes-Benz A-class Limousine set to launch in India tomorrow. Another rival to the BMW will be the new Audi A3 which is expected to arrive later in the year.
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Jaiveer MehraJaiveer MehraBMW 220i Sport launched at Rs 37.90 lakh2461402461401Wed, 24 Mar 2021 16:05:00 +1000420306Jaiveer MehraAutocar India staff photograherWed, 24 Mar 2021 16:21:22 +1000New entry-level 2 Series Gran Coupe petrol misses out on some features from the fully-loaded 220i M Sport; powered by the same 190hp, 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine.New entry-level 2 Series Gran Coupe petrol misses out on some features from the fully-loaded 220i M Sport; powered by the same 190hp, 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine.Wed, 24 Mar 2021 16:05:00 +1000"bmw 220i sport launched at rs 37.90 lakh"
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420306BMW 220i Gran Coupe M Sport launched at Rs 40.90 lakh
BMW has expanded its 2 Series Gran Coupe range in India by launching the 220i M Sport variant, at an introductory price of Rs 40.90 lakh. The petrol-powered version of the sedan joins the two diesel variants, the 220d Sport Line and the 220d M Sport, that were launched in October last year.
∙ 220i M Sport’s price of Rs 40.90 lakh is introductory
∙ Powered by a 190hp, 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine
∙ Available in a single, fully-loaded M Sport variant
2021 BMW 2-series Gran Coupe India price list
BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe variant-wise prices
Variant
Price (ex-showroom, India)
220d Sport Line
Rs 40.40 lakh
220i M Sport
Rs 40.90 lakh
220d M Sport
Rs 42.30 lakh
BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé 220i: Engine details
The 2 Series Gran Coupé 220i is powered by a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, turbo-petrol engine putting out 190hp and 280Nm of torque. It is paired to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. BMW claims a 0-100kph time of 7.1s for the 220i.
BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé 220i: Features
In terms of features, the 220i M Sport comes equipped with a digital instrument cluster, a 10.25-inch touchscreen with BMW’s iDrive infotainment system, cruise control, paddle shifters, auto headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, a sunroof, automatic climate control, powered front seats, rear view camera, six airbags, ABS, ESC and traction control.
Being an M Sport model, the 220i gets a chrome-heavy front grille, sportier front and rear bumpers, side skirts, ‘M’ badges on the front fenders and a blacked-out window line. The M Sport also runs on larger 18-inch alloys. Inside, it gets an M Sport steering wheel and aluminium pedals.
BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe: Rivals and more
Being the entry point to BMW’s sedan portfolio, the 2 Series Gran Coupe will compete with other entry-level sedan offerings from rival luxury brands. It will rival theMercedes-Benz A-class Limousine, which is expected to be introduced by the end of November, and the second-gen Audi A3 sedanthat will see its India launch sometime in 2021.
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Soham ThakurSoham ThakurBMW 220i Gran Coupe M Sport launched at Rs 40.90 lakh2461402461401Tue, 12 Jan 2021 15:22:00 +1000419639Soham ThakurAutocar India staff photograherTue, 23 Feb 2021 17:34:04 +1000Petrol version of the 2-series four-door coupe is available in a single M Sport guise.Petrol version of the 2-series four-door coupe is available in a single M Sport guise.Tue, 12 Jan 2021 15:22:00 +1000"bmw" "220i" "gran" "coupe" "m" "sport" "launched" "rs" "40.90" "lakh"
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4196392021 Audi A4 facelift launched at Rs 42.34 lakh
The Audi A4 has been launched at a price of Rs 42.34-46.67 lakh (ex-showroom, India), kick-starting Audi’s product offensive strategy for 2021. Audi is set to launch a new product every other month, but will stick to a petrol-only line-up for now.
2021 A4 is available in Premium Plus and Technology variants with prices ranging between Rs 42.34-46.67 lakh
The A4 facelift comes with a sole 190hp, 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine
The styling of the Indian model is in-line with international markets
2021 Audi A4 facelift: Price and variants
The refreshed Audi A4 comes in two variants – Premium Plus (Rs 42.34 lakh) and the top-spec Technology (Rs 46.67 lakh) – with the fully loaded Technology variant featuring tech such as a larger infotainment touchscreen, Audi’s ‘Virtual Cockpit’ digital instrument cluster, LED-headlamps, multi-zone climate control, and ambient lighting, and more.
2021 Audi A4 facelift: What’s new
Audi had previously given the A4 a facelift in late 2019, before discontinuing the model entirely in India in early 2020, with the advent of BS6 emissions regulations.
Although this is the second facelift for the A4, it brings with it more comprehensive exterior changes. The A4 now sports a wider, single-frame grille, new headlamps with daytime running lamps, revised front and rear bumpers, and redesigned tail-lamps.
On the inside, the basic cabin design remains largely unchanged, save for a few notable updates, such as a 10.1-inch touchscreen. However, the A4 retains physical controls instead of a second screen, such as for climate control, unlike newer-gen Audis.
2021 Audi A4 facelift: Engine and gearbox
The most notable change to the A4 lies under the bonnet. The A4 now comes with a 190hp, 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine – a substantial step-up in power from the 150hp, 1.4-litre unit in the pre-facelift model.
The 2.0-litre unit is paired to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox as standard, with power going to the front wheels. As Audi is focusing more on petrol-engines and electrification for the time being, there is no diesel engine on offer.
Audi has lined up a raft of product launches for this year, as part of its product offensive strategy, with models such as the A3, Q3, Q5, Q7 set to return as either facelifts or all-new models.
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Autocar India News DeskAutocar India News Desk2021 Audi A4 facelift launched at Rs 42.34 lakh2461402461401Autocar India News Desk2021 Audi A4 facelift launched at Rs 42.34 lakh2461402461401Tue, 5 Jan 2021 10:24:00 +1000419561Autocar India News DeskAutocar India staff photograherWed, 6 Jan 2021 10:41:55 +1000Updated A4 launch marks the beginning of a new product offensive from Audi.Updated A4 launch marks the beginning of a new product offensive from Audi.Tue, 5 Jan 2021 10:24:00 +1000"2021 audi a4 facelift launched at rs 42.34 lakh"
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4195612021 Audi A4 facelift video review
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Renuka KirpalaniRenuka Kirpalani2021 Audi A4 facelift video review2461402461401Mon, 4 Jan 2021 10:19:00 +1000419548Renuka KirpalaniAutocar India staff photograherMon, 4 Jan 2021 10:21:29 +1000After a brief hiatus, the A4 rejoins Audi's India line-up in facelifted avatar. The mid-size luxury sedan gets refreshed styling, more features and makes the switch to petrol-only power with a new 190hp, 2.0-litre TFSI engine. We give you our first impression.After a brief hiatus, the A4 rejoins Audi's India line-up in facelifted avatar. The mid-size luxury sedan gets refreshed styling, more features and makes the switch to petrol-only power with a new 190hp, 2.0-litre TFSI engine. We give you our first impression.Mon, 4 Jan 2021 10:19:00 +1000"2021 audi a4 facelift video review"
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4195482021 Audi A4 facelift review, test drive
Its 1am, but in a city that never sleeps the streets are all well lit. Yet, Kuldeep, our photographer is busy painting more light onto the new A4 for this night shoot and I can’t help but think of Audi. The past few years have been tough and Audi will certainly be hoping that the coming year shines new light on them.
Once leaders, and with a wide model lineup, the Ingolstadt brand saw its portfolio severely cut and sales dwindle. In the run up to the BS6 norms Audi steadily dropped its diesels and decided to introduce BS6 powertrains with only new products. However, with regulatory issues and COVID delays, new model introductions were slow and even volume models like the Q3 and the A4 were eventually unavailable.
The A4 makes a return to our market after nearly a year.
However, 2020 saw Audi step on the gas introducing five new models and this year there will be at least nine more. Importantly, most will be volume segment (relatively speaking) models, beginning with this, the A4.
What is the 2021 Audi A4 facelift?
India saw its first A4 in the form of the 4th (B8) generation in 2008 and in its time here it saw a generation change – to the B9 – as well as many updates, the last one being a very mild one in 2019 called the Quick Lift. Now, though the car we have here is also a facelift, it’s a far more comprehensive one. Nearly every exterior panel is new and there’s a new engine and some new tech as well.
What really grabs your attention are the new LED headlights; they are smoother and topped by neat LED segments. The new lights look nicer and so much more in tune with the car’s character rather than the old jagged-edged headlights that made the car look like James Bond trying to pull off a skull-and-bones tattoo.
The latest A4 gets a classier grille and new LED headlights that suit it better.
The Audi trapezoidal grille too looks smoother and classier, with more rounded corners and a flatter and wider profile. Also wider is the car itself, having grown marginally, by 5mm. The length too has gone up by 24mm but the wheelbase, expectedly, is exactly the same.
The doors on the A4 are new and they appear smoother in profile. There’s a finer and lowered crease line while the earlier thicker crease is limited to the front and rear fenders. The rear has been updated and while it’s milder, the new tail-lights infuse freshness with the eye catching LED segments that mimic the headlight design. On the whole, the A4 comes off a lot smarter and classier, and the facelift is certainly a job well done.
The design of the LED tail-lights mimic the headlights units.
What's the 2021 Audi A4 facelift like on the inside?
Moving inside, the dash and center console have familiar bits like the continuous AC vent design and the flat gear selector. The big change here though is the addition of Audi’s new MMI system. The older display with its fat bezels gives way to a new slicker high resolution 10.1-inch touchscreen. Thankfully, rather than the twin-touchscreen setup – seen in recent Audis – the A4 uses a single panel mainly for infotainment, while the HVAC and other systems are still button- and dial-driven. With the touch enabled screen, Audi has deleted the rotary controller dial but the combination of the touchscreen and the physical buttons is definitely easy to use.
New touchscreen-based MMI system is new and the 10.1 screen is responsive and sharp.
The space inside remains the same and while it may not best some of its rivals, headroom and legroom will be adequate for most. The interiors are also comfortable though the rear seats could do with a more reclined backrest. What really stands out is the fit, finish and build. As soon as you step inside, you are greeted by a very premium and classy looking interior. The colour scheme is uplifting and bits like the knurled knobs and polished surfaces all look classy and rich. It’s also all very well put together and everything operates with a positive feel. Even something like the glovebox or the vanity mirror slider operate with a sense of quality.
Outstanding fit, finish and build. Everything, including the vanity mirror blind, operates with a positive quality feel.
Some rivals like the Volvo S60 offer more equipment, but the A4 in the Technology Pack variant we had gets the luxury car basics like a 3-zone climate control, powered front seats, auto park assist, ambient lighting and wireless phone charging. As for safety, there’s eight airbags and, of course, the regular electronic aids like ABS and stability control. There will also be a lower Premium Plus variant though at the moment we do not have its equipment details.
Comfortable rear seats, but the backrest is a bit upright.
What's the 2021 Audi A4 facelift like to drive?
In India we’ve had the A4 with petrol and diesel (and inline as well as V6) motors, however, at the time of its last sale, the sole option was a 150hp, 1.4-litre, turbo-petrol motor. The current facelift also comes with a single powertrain but thankfully it’s the larger 2.0L TFSI unit which produces a more appropriate 190hp and 320Nm of torque.
New 190hp, 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine is a significant upgrade over the previous 150hp unit.
Power delivery is smooth, very linear and delightfully quick. In our test, we clocked 7.19 seconds for the 0 to 100kph dash, while the in-gear times were 4.29 secs for 20-80kph and 5.52 secs for the 40-100kph run. Interestingly, these times put it ahead of the Volvo S60 (a tad over 100kg heavier than the 1560kg A4), which is also powered by a 190hp, 2-litre petrol engine.
While the engine is a highlight, the gearbox at times does let it down. In some instances, it waits on you before downshifting and if you’re in a hurry or want a spirited drive it’s better to use the 7-speed DSG’s paddles. While there are better boxes out there, the combination of this gearbox with the 2.0 TFSI engine is simply brilliant. Not only is it quick, the drive experience is utterly smooth, and the engine is very quiet and super refined. Even when you rev it hard, it just never feels strained or coarse. It’s certainly a high point of this car and will endear itself to owners who get behind the wheel.
There is some body roll though the steering tightens up nicely in corners.
The steering feel is also very good with just the right amount of weight, and in Dynamic mode it tightens up nicely in corners. There is body roll, however, and the car did bob up and down on the many undulations and surface changes that we call the Western Express Highway in Mumbai. The ride from the softly-sprung suspension is very good, though. Broken surfaces and potholes aren’t a bother and the A4 can easily soak up most of the bad stuff.
Ride quality and road grip is very good, though it tends to pitch over uneven surfaces.
Should you buy the 2021 Audi A4 facelift?
Long overdue, the A4 couldn’t have picked a more difficult time to arrive. There’s rivals like the C-Class, the Jag XE and also the new gen Volvo S60, bookings for which open this month, and then there’s BMW which will be shifting the goal posts with the launch of the long wheelbase 3 Series. The A4 is also available with just one powertrain and it may not have the most comfortable rear, but it does have a lot of ammo in its arsenal, and the best bit is that it’s an excellent all-rounder. The car is comfortable and rides well, it comes with the features you’d expect, a quality interior that is very well put together and a super refined engine which delivers thrilling performance. Plus, all of this is wrapped up in a very premium and classy looking exterior. So, while it may not have picked a very opportune time, it’s certainly picked all the right ingredients, and the A4 looks all set to shine bright for Audi.
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Sergius BarrettoSergius Barretto2021 Audi A4 facelift review, test drive2461402461401Sergius Barretto2021 Audi A4 facelift review, test drive2461402461401Sergius Barretto2021 Audi A4 facelift review, test drive2461402461401Sergius Barretto2021 Audi A4 facelift review, test driveWireless charging is in an easy-to-reach centre console tray.2461402461401Mon, 4 Jan 2021 10:00:00 +1000419539Sergius BarrettoAutocar India staff photograherMon, 4 Jan 2021 09:34:50 +1000Back after a long break, Audi’s most popular sedan brings with it a fresh new look, a new engine and some new tech too. We find out if it’s all enough.Back after a long break, Audi’s most popular sedan brings with it a fresh new look, a new engine and some new tech too. We find out if it’s all enough.Mon, 4 Jan 2021 10:00:00 +1000"2021" "audi a4" "audi" "a4" "facelift" "review" "test" "drive"
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4195392021 Lexus IS revealed with fresh styling, new tech and enhanced chassis
New Lexus IS is bigger than its predecessor
There are changes to the exterior and interior, but the biggest changes are under the skin
Lexus has officially revealed its 2021 IS sedan, which features extensive updates over the outgoing version.
The new IS features an exterior redesign inspired by the look of the ES. It's 30mm longer and 30mm wider than its predecessor, with extended wheel arches to accommodate larger 19-inch wheel options.
Lexus claims the widened and lowered stance "nods to the inherently high level of driving performance the IS possesses", while additional styling lines aim to enhance visual aggression. The F-Sport models feature a unique version of the car's 3D spindle grille, using a mesh pattern and a lower air intake.
New triple-beam LED headlights have been used, sitting inside redesigned clusters, while a sloping rear quarter pillar and lowered rear deck join a new "blade-style" light bar that extends the full width of the tailgate. Five new paint colours are also on offer.
The IS' interior layout will be familiar to drivers of current Lexus models, but the technology has been updated. Base models feature a new 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen that has been moved three inches closer to the driver, while models with navigation get a 10.3-inch touchscreen. Both now feature Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Amazon Alexa integration as standard.
The Mark Levinson sound system is also improved with 17 speakers and a total output of 1800 watts. Safety assistance technology too has been given a boost, with the raft of new features bringing it in line with the class standard. A new augmented-reality smartphone app also allows you to interact with the car in many ways.
Powertrains are broadly similar to the old IS. The base version is a 244hp, 2.0-litre turbo-petrol, while there are two 3.5-litre V6 options making 264hp and 315hp, respectively.
Lexus makes substantial claims about the IS's chassis improvements, which were worked on extensively by the brand's Japanese engineers. Body rigidity has been enhanced to improve noise, vibration, harshness and ride comfort, while the suspension has been redesigned to accommodate larger wheel choices.
Despite this, unsprung weight is said to be reduced, with 20 percent lighter coil springs and lighter materials, including forged aluminium, for other unsprung components. Finally, new swing valve shock absorbers with velocity valves are claimed to provide more consistent responsiveness and ride quality.
No previous version of the Lexus IS has been brought to India. Lexus’ BMW 3 Series rival will now only be sold in the US, Japan and a few other Asian markets. No European, UK or India debut is on the cards. Lexus UK claims the newer and larger ES sedan outsells the IS by two to one, while 80 percent of the brand's European sales are of SUVs. Meanwhile in India, the locally assembled ES sedan, which costs between Rs 51.90-56.95 lakh, will be the mainstay of Lexus' line-up in the country.
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Autocar India News DeskAutocar India News Desk2021 Lexus IS revealed with fresh styling, new tech and enhanced chassis2461402461401Autocar India News Desk2021 Lexus IS revealed with fresh styling, new tech and enhanced chassis2461402461401Autocar India News Desk2021 Lexus IS revealed with fresh styling, new tech and enhanced chassis2461402461401Autocar India News Desk2021 Lexus IS revealed with fresh styling, new tech and enhanced chassis2461402461401Thu, 18 Jun 2020 09:00:00 +1000417677Autocar India News DeskAutocar India staff photograherWed, 17 Jun 2020 19:19:43 +1000The Lexus IS is the carmaker's smallest sedan and it's only available in select markets like the US.The Lexus IS is the carmaker's smallest sedan and it's only available in select markets like the US.Thu, 18 Jun 2020 09:00:00 +1000"2021 lexus is revealed with fresh styling, new tech and enhanced chassis" "2021 lexus is" "is"
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417677BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe video review
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Shapur KotwalShapur KotwalBMW 2 Series Gran Coupe video review2461402461401Sun, 3 May 2020 15:30:00 +1000417116Shapur KotwalAutocar India staff photograherThu, 7 May 2020 10:34:45 +1000The BMW 2 Series is the Bavarian brand's four-door coupé and a rival for the upcoming Mercedes-Benz A-class sedan and the Audi A3. It's scheduled to be launched in India later in 2020 - probably around Diwali - at a price of around Rs 32-38 lakh (ex-showroom). But what does it get you and what is it like to drive? We drive it to find out.The BMW 2 Series is the Bavarian brand's four-door coupé and a rival for the upcoming Mercedes-Benz A-class sedan and the Audi A3. It's scheduled to be launched in India later in 2020 - probably around Diwali - at a price of around Rs 32-38 lakh (ex-showroom). But what does it get you and what is it like to drive? We drive it to find out.Sun, 3 May 2020 15:30:00 +1000"bmw 2 series gran coupe video review" "bmw 2 series" "2 series gran coupe" "bmw" '2 series" "2 series review" "video review"
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417116Mercedes-Benz A-class sedan to be available in three variants
Following its India debut at the 2020 Auto Expo, Mercedes has revealed more details about the India-spec A-class Limousine. A replacement for the first-gen CLA in India, the A-class sedan will be available in three variants – petrol, diesel and AMG. The carmaker’s website also says that bookings for the A-class sedan are now open.
The petrol and diesel models will be available in a single Progressive Line trim. Equipment on offer will include twin 10.25-inch displays for the infotainment and instrumentation, the brands new MBUX infotainment system with integrated navigation, connected-car technology, dual-zone climate control, LED headlamps, panoramic sunroof, cruise control, powered front seats with memory and wireless smartphone charging.
The AMG model will get more aggressive looks, in line with the car shown at the Expo, with sportier bumpers and side skirts, different design alloy wheels and spoiler element on the boot-lid. The cabin too will get sportier touches with model-specific front seats, AMG steering wheel, along with different trim inserts. The AMG model additionally will come with a Burmester surround sound system as standard.
While Mercedes has not revealed the engine details for the A-class, the petrol unit on offer is expected to be the 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine that’s good for 163hp (A 200). The A-class diesel is expected to get a 116hp, 1.5-litre engine (A 180d). Coming to the AMG, in markets abroad, the A-class sedan is currently only available in AMG A 35-spec, which was the model shown at the Expo. Therefore, it is safe to say that the AMG A-class sedan for India will come powered by a 306hp, 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, turbocharged petrol engine with standard four-wheel drive.
Expect prices for the A-class sedan to be in the region of Rs 32-40 lakh (ex-showroom) for the standard petrol and diesel models, with the AMG being priced a fair deal higher.
Presently as it stands the A-class will rival the new BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, which is expected to arrive later this year.
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Jaiveer MehraJaiveer MehraMercedes-Benz A-class sedan to be available in three variants2461402461401Mon, 20 Apr 2020 16:34:00 +1000416960Jaiveer MehraAutocar India staff photograherMon, 20 Apr 2020 16:38:40 +1000Standard petrol and diesel model to be available in a single trim; AMG model also to be available.Standard petrol and diesel model to be available in a single trim; AMG model also to be available.Mon, 20 Apr 2020 16:34:00 +1000"mercedes" "benz" "a-class" "sedan" "to be available in" "three" "variants"
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