Between Ambition And Emotion BMW Creates 8 Series Gran Coupe, M8 Coupe

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  • June 17, 2020
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With its emotive, aesthetic design, dynamic ability and spacious interior, this is the most luxurious sports coupe ever built by the company as the car embodies a perfect fusion of performance and progressive luxury. The two-door car offers luxurious ambience with the ultimate motorsport feeling, designed to challenge the limits of dynamic performance.

BMW M8 Coupe

Arlindo Teixeira, acting President, BMW Group India said, “The first-ever BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe is a creation between ambition and emotion, between presence and extravagance - an avantgarde choice for frontrunners who drive the future. On the other hand, with the first-ever BMW M8 Coupe, we are addressing our high performance-oriented customers. These two top-of-the-line offerings in the uber-luxury segment define everything that captures one’s imagination.”

The standalone character of 8 Series Gran Coupe comes alive with a graceful elongated design, athletic proportions and an aura of sporting exclusivity. The two extra doors and impressive space combine with an extended wheelbase and exceptional ride comfort, making it an outstanding operator both in everyday driving and over longer journeys. For those who want an even sportier, bolder avatar of the 8 Series Gran Coupe, the ‘M Sport’ Edition is on offer.

8 Series Gran Coupe

Presence of precise vehicle lines are few, however, they underline the graphic design of 8 Series Gran Coupe. The muscular surfaces and precise contours of the bonnet together with large air intakes exhibit unconditional power and forward thrust. The striking double kidney grille widens towards the bottom, emphasizing the vehicle’s low centre of gravity – an effect that is further enhanced by extremely slim headlights. When viewed from the side, the long wheelbase, elegantly flowing coupe roofline and wide wheel arches create a dynamically stretched silhouette underlining the length and grandeur of the car. A suggestive third line runs through the door handles into the pronounced, curved shoulder. At the rear, the car’s sporting allure is intensified by extremely wide tracks, sport exhaust system and wrap-around LED lights.

The interior is seen as a living space, surrounded by the highest possible sensuous quality. In the driver-focused cockpit, sports car atmosphere is clear. Electrically adjustable sport seats provide a better grip and dynamic driving position. This experience is extended to all passengers thanks to the single-seat design of the rear seats for the first time.

The center console, which is wide and steeply ascending as is typical of sports cars, underscores the longitudinal orientation and has all relevant controls. Generous space allows passengers to stretch out and enjoy the experience of absolute freedom of movement. The luggage compartment has a capacity of 440 litres. The 40:20:40 split backrest allows greater flexibility and ease of loading / unloading.

The TwinPower Turbo BS-VI petrol engine delivers spontaneous responsiveness even at low engine speeds. The three-litre six-cylinder in-line petrol engine of the 840i Gran Coupe produces an output of 340 hp and maximum torque of 500 Nm at 1,600 – 4,500 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 km / hr in just 5.2 seconds.

M8 Coupe

Racing and design are intricately linked in the M8 Coupe and it is evident with its offer - a unique combination of racing flair with everyday usability. Its effective handling and supportive steering precision make it perfect for days when one wants to experience its sporting prowess.

Few but very precise surface lines convey the extent of power lurking beneath the hood. The hexagonal kidney grille with M typical double slats draws attention to itself between the iconic four-eye face of laser-light. The size of the air intakes widens towards the bottom and shows how immense the cooling requirements of the high-performance engine and brakes are. The torsion-resistant and light carbon-fibre material in the M carbon-fibre roof reduces weight and lends modern technological value to the aerodynamic shape. The side view amplifies aerodynamics with the sharp inclination of the shark nose, extra-large air curtains and few bold lines. Flared aluminium wings with M gills and M8 designation emphasise track width and wheel size. The rear spoiler lip, M-specific M8 rear diffuser and M-specific double-flow exhaust system with twin tailpipes highlight racing aspirations. Bringing out the sporty character is a range of new metallic paints - hatch grey, sonic speed blue, marina bay blue, donington grey, barcelona blue and motegi red. Optionally, customers can choose from a wide range of BMW Individual Paintwork options.

Interior

The driver-focused interior of the car accelerates sportiness and luxury. The driver and front passenger have a sporty, low seating position and the controls are grouped into clusters according to their function. The unique comfort and grip of the newly developed M sport seats is perfected by side bolsters and a flared shoulder area. This claim is visually underlined by the exclusive two-tone full leather 'Merino' upholstery with hexagonal embroidery in the seat’s center section and an exclusive illuminated ‘M8’ logo in the headrest.

The M TwinPower Turbo 4-litre 8-cylinder petrol engine is amongst the most powerful V8 engine ever developed by BMW M GmbH for a production vehicle. With two dynamic turbochargers, high-pressure direct injection, Valvetronic and a proven cooling concept, the engine creates a driving experience that even professionals dream of. It produces an output of 600 hp and maximum torque of 750 Nm at 1,800 to 5,600 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 kmph in just 3.3 seconds.

Transmission

The eight-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission in both the cars performs smooth, almost imperceptible gearshifts. At any time, in any gear, the transmission collaborates perfectly with the engine, enabling it to develop its full power and efficiency. The M Sport differential in 8 Series Gran Coupe ensures that even with challenging changes of direction or on various surfaces, the engine power is optimally brought to the road. While in M8 Coupe the steering wheel paddle shifters and cruise control with braking function add to greater driving pleasure.

Personalization

Both the cars adapt perfectly to an exclusive lifestyle and also to personal taste. A multitude of bespoke personalization options are presented right from the moment customers configure their car. In addition, BMW Individual presents the most luxurious choice of special paint finishes, hand-crafted leather, interior trims and other equipment details of the highest quality that are available in a diverse range. Each car becomes a unique reflection of the owner’s personal style statement.

The cars are available as completely-built-up units in BS-VI petrol variants. The ex-showroom prices are 840i Gran Coupe – INR1.3 Crore, 840i Gran Coupe ‘M Sport’ Edition - INR1.55 Crore and M8 Coupe - INR2.15 Crore.

Customers of the cars will gain membership to the BMW Excellence Club that caters to the discerning taste of BMW customers and curates unmatched experiences and benefits from the world of luxury, travel, lifestyle and sports and adventure. Its forte lies in creating ‘money can’t buy’ experiences that customers can’t find elsewhere. The program features four main categories: Bespoke Travel, The High Life, Grandstand and BMW Privileges.

Using the recently introduced ‘BMW Contactless Experience’, customers will be able to select, customise and book these cars from the comfort of their home. (MT)

 

Hyundai Alcazar Corporate Variant With Panoramic Sunroof Launched At INR 1.78 Million

Hyundai Alcazar

Hyundai Motor India (HMIL) has expanded its Alcazar SUV range with a new Corporate variant with diesel powertrain at prices starting INR 1.78 million and an expansion of automatic transmission options in the Prestige DCT Petrol (7-speed) at INR 1.86 million.

The Alcazar Corporate variant is equipped with a voice-enabled smart Panoramic Sunroof and is available with both 6-speed Manual and 6-speed Automatic transmission choices, and is designed to appeal to the evolving aspirations of Indian SUV buyers.

Tarun Garg, Whole-Time Director and Chief Operating Officer, Hyundai Motor India, said, “At Hyundai Motor India, we are continuously listening to customer feedback and evolving our product offerings to meet their aspirations. The introduction of the Corporate variant in Alcazar Diesel with a voice enabled smart panoramic sunroof and the inclusion of DCT in the Prestige Petrol variant reflects our commitment to providing a more personalized and premium SUV experience. With these updates, we aim to offer more choice and delight to our customers who seek performance, technology and sophistication in their vehicles.”

HYUNDAI ALCAZAR
Premium Exteriors Quad beam LED headlamps
LED turn signal with sequential function
R17 (D=436.6 mm) Diamond cut alloys
Bridge type roof rails
Premium Convenience Smart key with push button start
Dual zone automatic temperature control (DATC)
Voice enabled smart panoramic sunroof
Ambient light on crashpad, front and rear doors
Hi-Tech Experience 26.03 cm (10.25") HD Audio Video Navigation System
Wireless Android Auto & Apple Carplay (Wired to Wireless Adapter)
Hyundai Bluelink (connected car technology)
Front row wireless charger
Advanced Safety 6 airbags
Electronic stability control (ESC)
Hill-start assist control (HAC)
Vehicle stability management (VSM)

Tata Motors Bets On Familiar Design To Tap Into New Customer Base

Tata Harrier.ev

When Tata Motors launched the Harrier.ev, it wasn’t just introducing another electric vehicle — it was signalling a shift in India’s premium electric vehicle landscape. Based on Tata’s Gen 2 EV (acti.ev+) architecture, the Harrier.ev blends familiarity with futuristic design, making electrification a natural progression rather than a disruptive leap.

Interestingly, the company is providing a lifetime warranty on the battery for the first vehicle owners, applicable only to private owners. 

Anand Kulkarni, Chief Product Officer, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility, told Motoring Trends, “We have said that our Gen 2 approach is basically a pure EV approach. Much the same way, the acti.ev+, in fact, we have taken that architecture further ahead on the Harrier.ev to make sure that you can get the seating comfort of a regular SUV without any compromise on the battery or powertrain.”

While rivals explore born-electric platforms from scratch, Tata’s strategy with the Harrier.ev is different – marrying known aesthetics with a ground-up EV design. That’s not just a technical decision, but as Kulkarni stated, it’s rooted in customer behaviour.

“There is a section of people who are saying, who want the comfort and the familiarity of the product that they are using. So we have made a product that retains that familiarity, while giving them the benefits of electrification,” Kulkarni explained.

The Harrier.ev isn’t just about powertrains and batteries – it’s about creating a ‘third space.’ With features like a 14.5-inch Neo QLED screen and Dolby audio, Tata wants the Harrier.ev to be as comfortable and connected as a living room.

“You have office, you have home, and everything in between is where you spend a lot of time in the car. People expect it to be comfortable, convenient, connected and safe,” Kulkarni said.

Even as the EV market rapidly matures, Tata remains mindful of long-term viability. Decisions around battery size, AWD vs FWD configurations, and software-driven features were all taken with a delicate balance of affordability and future-readiness in mind.

“We worked with two sizes of batteries. This was about making the right choices,” said Kulkarni, noting how Tata’s dual-battery strategy is now industry standard.

As Kulkarni explained, For Tata, the Harrier.ev is more than a product – it's a culmination of years of foresight, strategic evolution and a deep understanding of the Indian consumer. It’s a vehicle that reflects not just where the market is headed, but how Tata Motors is determined to lead it there.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Introduces Neo Drive Variant For Fortuner And Legender SUVs

Toyota Legender 48V

Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has launched the Fortuner and Legender in a new Neo Drive in a hybrid avatar, featuring a 48-volt system that delivers improved fuel efficiency. The models are priced at INR 4.47 million and INR 5.09 million, respectively.  

Since its debut in 2009, the Toyota Fortuner has defined the premium SUV segment in India, admired for its rugged design, robust performance and unmatched all-terrain capabilities. The stylish and feature-rich Legender complements the Fortuner, exemplifying Toyota’s core values of quality, durability and reliability. Together, they have cultivated a loyal following among urban adventurers and off-road enthusiasts alike.

The new Neo Drive variants introduce Toyota’s advanced 2.8-litre, four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine paired with a 48V system comprising a belt-integrated starter generator and lithium-ion battery. This technology mirrors hybrid electric systems by recuperating braking energy during deceleration, contributing to smoother low-end acceleration, quieter operation and improved fuel efficiency. The Smart Idle Start-Stop function further enhances efficiency by automatically shutting off the engine when stationary, resulting in lower emissions and fuel savings.

Importantly, the company claims that these enhancements do not compromise the Fortuner and Legender’s formidable payload capacity, durability or off-road performance. The Multi-Terrain Select system optimises throttle response, braking and traction control to deliver a superior driving experience across diverse terrains.

On the design front, the Fortuner retains its bold, purposeful stance, ideal for rugged adventures, while the Legender exudes a more dynamic and premium appeal with dual-tone body colours, split LED headlamps and a sleek fascia. Both models offer dual-tone leather upholstery, soft-touch materials and ergonomic seating designed for long-distance comfort.

In terms of safety the SUVs come with ABS, Vehicle Stability Control with Brake Assist, WIL Concept Seats, Hill Assist Control, Traction Control and more. Toyota’s focus on customer convenience extends to tailored finance solutions, including up to 8-year funding plans, Toyota Smart Balloon Finance and pre-approved value-added services such as extended warranty and genuine accessories. Buyers will also benefit from five years of complimentary roadside assistance and a standard 3-year/100,000 km warranty, extendable to 5 years/220,000 km, along with the customisable Toyota Smiles Plus service package.

Varinder Wadhwa, Vice President, Sales-Service-Used Car Business, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “As the SUV market in India grows steadily, customers are seeking advanced features and differentiated styling. The new Fortuner and Legender Neo Drive variants meet these expectations with bold design, powerful performance, and comprehensive features, underscoring Toyota’s commitment to delivering ever-better cars and advancing towards carbon neutrality.”

Bookings for the Fortuner and Legender Neo Drive variants commenced on 2 June 2025, with deliveries set to begin from the third week of June.

Hyundai Motor India Appoints Pankaj Tripathi As Its New Brand Ambassador

Hyundai India - Pankaj Tripathi

Hyundai Motor India, a leading passenger vehicle manufacturer, has onboarded popular actor Pankaj Tripathi as its new brand ambassador.

The company shared that Tripathi, who is known for his versatility and grounded charm, embodies Hyundai India’s values of reliability, authenticity and a deep-rooted connection with the country’s diverse audience. With this association, HMIL further strengthens its ambassador lineup that already includes iconic personalities.

Tarun Garg, Whole-Time Director and Chief Operating Officer, Hyundai Motor India, said, “At HMIL, we celebrate stories of progress and inspiration. We are delighted to welcome Pankaj Tripathi to HMIL family. His grounded persona, exceptional talent and widespread appeal resonate with the values of HMIL and our vision of ‘Progress for Humanity’. Together, we aim to drive deeper emotional connections with our diverse customer base across India.”

Pankaj Tripathi, said, “It is an honour to associate with Hyundai Motor India, a brand that has long stood for trust, innovation and customer-first approach. My first car was a Hyundai, and over the years, that relationship has grown into something truly personal. As someone who deeply values simplicity, sincerity and staying true to one’s roots, I find a natural alignment with HMIL’s ethos. I look forward to this partnership where together, we can connect with people across the country - not just through technology, but through shared stories and values.”