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.

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)

AstaGuru will showcase some of the world’s most coveted vintage and classic cars at its upcoming ‘Classics of Motoring’ auction, which will take place from 20 to 22 November 2024.

The auction will offer an exclusive collection of rare and meticulously curated vintage cars, providing a unique opportunity for collectors and automotive enthusiasts to acquire iconic pieces of automotive history.

The auction will feature an impressive lineup of vehicles, including a 1934 Rolls-Royce 20/25 Limousine, a 1946 Singer Nine Roadster, a 1946 Bentley Mark VI, a 1947 Lincoln Continental V12 Convertible and a 1948 Jaguar Mark IV, among others. These stunning machines, each a testament to the engineering marvels of their era, promise to transport bidders back in time, celebrating the golden age of motoring.

A Growing Market in India

AstaGuru’s Vintage and Classic Car Specialist, Muzammil Kazi, shared his insights on the evolution of the vintage car market in India. “We did our first auction in 2018, and it was a surprising success,” Kazi noted. “At the time, these cars weren’t available online or marketed in the way they are now. You’d have to go to a dealer or connect with a seller directly, which made it hard to find these rare cars. But our first auction was a hit, with all lots selling successfully.”

The vintage car market in India, according to Kazi, is far from saturated. “The market is 100 percent growing. These cars were imported to India in limited quantities, and you wouldn’t find brands like Ford or General Motors here in the same way as abroad. Cars like the Fiat, Ambassador, or old Maruti SS80 were more common, but the rare vintage gems we are showcasing today are difficult to find.”

Kazi also emphasised that the scarcity of such cars means the market still has significant potential for growth. “The cars we have on display today are curated from various collectors across India, and it’s very rare to see them come together in one auction,” he explained.

Safeguarding Online Bidders

AstaGuru’s online auction platform also ensures that bidders are fully protected throughout the process. “We have a strong set of terms and conditions for the cars we sell,” Kazi explained. “We only auction cars with up-to-date paperwork and in proper running condition. Once a car is sold, we ensure the buyer receives it only after the seller submits a No Objection Certificate (NOC), making the transaction smooth and secure.”

Record-Breaking Bids

The auction has seen some impressive bids in the past. Kazi highlighted one of the highest bids to date: a Mercedes-Benz 111 230S, which was estimated at INR 2.1 million but eventually sold for INR 6.8 million. Another standout was a Rolls-Royce, which had an estimated value of INR 7-8 million but sold for a remarkable INR 18 million.

A Rare Opportunity for Collectors

For classic car enthusiasts and connoisseurs, the ‘Classics of Motoring’ auction represents an unmissable opportunity to acquire some of the rarest and most beautifully restored vehicles in the world. With its rich history and pedigree, each car in the auction is a testament to the artistry and engineering excellence that defined its era. Whether a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of vintage automobiles, this event promises a truly memorable experience for all involved.

As the vintage car market continues to grow in India, AstaGuru is setting the stage for an exciting future for collectors and car lovers alike. The ‘Classics of Motoring’ auction is expected to draw attention from around the world, offering a rare chance to own a piece of automotive history.

Tata Motors-owned British luxury car brand Jaguar has unveiled its new brand identity, which it says recaptures an ethos to Copy Nothing that traces its roots back to the words of its founder, Sir William Lyons. 

The new identify is based on Exuberant Modernism, a creative philosophy, which the company says underpins all aspects of the new Jaguar brand world. 

Professor Gerry McGovern OBE, Chief Creative Officer, Jaguar, said, “Jaguar has its roots in originality. Sir William Lyons, our founder, believed that ‘A Jaguar should be a copy of nothing’. Our vision for Jaguar today is informed by this philosophy.  New Jaguar is a brand built around Exuberant Modernism. It is imaginative, bold and artistic at every touchpoint. It is unique and fearless. This is a reimagining that recaptures the essence of Jaguar, returning it to the values that once made it so loved, but making it relevant for a contemporary audience. We are creating Jaguar for the future, restoring its status as a brand that enriches the lives of our clients and the Jaguar community.”

The four symbols of change – Device Mark, Strikethrough, Exuberant Colours and Makers Marks - each representing the future design philosophy for the luxury carmaker.

Device Mark celebrates modernism through the geometric form, symmetry and simplicity.

Strikethrough sees the linear graphic generate a unique presence and an immediately recognisable visual for Jaguar.

The Exuberant use of colours marks a cornerstone of Jaguar’s new brand identity.

Makers Mark consists of the newly reimagined Jaguar ‘leaper’, which the luxury brand said is part of its mark of provenance. 

On 2 December 2024, Jaguar will present its first global public installation under its new brand philosophy at the Miami Art Week.

Rawdon Glover, Managing Director, Jaguar, said, “To bring back such a globally renowned brand we had to be fearless. Jaguar was always at its best when challenging convention. That ethos is seen in our new brand identity today and will be further revealed over the coming months. This is a complete reset. Jaguar is transformed to reclaim its originality and inspire a new generation. I am excited for the world to finally see Jaguar.”

Nissan Motor India, one of the leading passenger vehicles manufacturers, has started exporting the new Nissan Magnite SUV to South Africa, which is part of the company’s bigger export plans from the country.

Since the launch of the refreshed SUV in October 2024, Nissan has exported over 2,700 units of the Magnite to global customers. Till date, the SUV has gone home to over 150,000 customers globally since it was launched in December 2020.

Nissan is also looking to expand its total export footprint to more than 65 international markets now including Left-Hand Drive (LHD) markets.

Frank Torres, Divisional Vice-President - AMIEO Region Business Transformation & President, Nissan India Operations, said, “Ever since the Nissan Magnite’s launch in 2020, we have seen a resounding acceptance and demand from customers in the South African market for the Made-in-India compact SUV. Our focus on the domestic and export market both are crucial parts of our strategy to deliver outcomes in line with ‘The Arc and India remains a key part of the growth strategy for the company. The export of the new Nissan Magnite will further enhance India's position as an export hub and drive Nissan's growth in the AMIEO region, exemplifying Nissan India ‘One Car, One World’ philosophy.”

Jordi Vila, President, Nissan Africa, said, “We are delighted to receive the shipment of new Nissan Magnite SUVs from India and glad that they will be available for the local customers. With its bold aesthetics, enhanced safety and advanced tech features, catering to a wide range of preferences and customer needs, our customers in South Africa and other African markets are sure to like the new Nissan Magnite B-SUV.” 

Škoda Auto India has launched the all-new Kylaq Club, a membership programme designed to engage potential Kylaq buyers throughout their journey, right from discovering to booking and purchasing the SUV. Based on the company’s MQB-A0-IN platform, the Kylaq is India’s first-ever sub-4m SUV, which was announced in February 2024 and was unveiled globally on 6 November. The SUV is slated to go on sale in January 2025.

Kylaq Club members will have the advantage of making reservations at a discounted rate compared to other clients. Additionally, members have access to priority booking, gaining a two-hour edge over standard reservations when it opens on 2 December 2024. They also benefit from extra webcast sessions, factory tours and vouchers for accessories and value-added items. Customers simply need to sign up for the Kylaq Club on the company’s website. The registrations are already open and ends on 30 November 2024.

Petr Janeba, Brand Director, Škoda Auto India, said, “The Kylaq heralds a new era for Škoda Auto in India and is set to democratise European technology on Indian roads. At the world premiere of the Kylaq last week, we committed to introducing some special benefits for our prospective customers of Kylaq. And today is our first announcement – the launch of the Kylaq Club. This is our endeavour to make our customers feel extremely special and privileged and at the same time at home with the Škoda family, with numerous exclusive benefits including exclusive content, special offers and deeper insights, before the Kylaq enters their garage. Only members of the Kylaq Club will have exclusive priority booking for Kylaq, with a limited-time special offer, when it opens on 2 December 2024.”