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.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has unveiled the Ghost Series II in India, which is claimed to be the most technologically advanced and driver-focused V12 Rolls-Royce yet.

A powerful, driver-oriented and elegant rendition that runs on an uncompromising twin-turbocharged engine, the Ghost now comes with new exterior styling and incorporates Planar Suspension system, Flagbearer and Satellite Aided Transmission systems. It features new SPIRIT digital interface and Whispers private members app along with enhanced audio system, internet connectivity and video streaming functions. The Black Badge Ghost Series II and Ghost Series II Extended are available to commission from launch.

The Ghost Series II, Black Badge Ghost Series II and Ghost Extended Series II are now available to order at Rolls-Royce’s Chennai and New Delhi showrooms. Pricing is dependent on client specification and starts from INR 89.5 million for the Ghost Series II, INR 101.9 million for the Ghost Extended Series II and INR 105.2 million for the Black Badge Ghost Series II.

Irene Nikkein, Regional Director – Asia-Pacific, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, said, “Our clients truly appreciate Ghost’s handling capabilities and its potential for Bespoke. Ghost Series II remains faithful to its principles, yet it elevates every aspect of its presence. It is the most technologically advanced and driver-focused V12 Rolls-Royce ever created, and its self-assured appearance serves as a potent stage for creatively daring commissions – making it the perfect driver-focused touring machine. The marque reaffirmed its position as a highly desirable luxury brand in India, with the market expanding by almost a-third in 2024. With Ghost Series II now available in India, I believe clients will be excited to create ever more ambitious and valuable motor cars.”

Renault India, a wholly owned subsidiary of Renault Groupe, opened its dealership in Ambattur and renovated it using the new’R store concept, the network's new global architectural model, marking the beginning of its transformation in India.

In addition to gradually renovating its current dealerships, all new Renault stores in India will henceforth be constructed utilising the new model. According to the New Visual Identity (NVI), Renault is also redesigning its dealerships in India. As a result, Renault's new emblem, which is white over black, will now be shown at all of its showrooms. The company plans to renovate around 100 stores in 2025, with the goal of finishing the makeover by 2026.

The structure has been updated to provide a better shopping experience and features a fresh style for the interiors of Renault stores with a contemporary feel. Customers are able to examine the automobiles from every angle since the vehicle display is purposefully kept at the centre of the establishment. With distinctive lighting, first-rate seating and outstanding customer service, the concept also allows the establishment to provide patrons with a modern, fresh and urban appearance. Additionally, in order to provide consumers with simple access, the new’R store model will include all of the necessary customer service spaces, such as the customer lounge, after-sales reception and sales advisor offices, inside the showroom's perimeter. The new structure reaffirms Renault's dedication to improving both the product and brand experience for consumers.

Venkatram M, Managing Director and Country CEO, Renault India, said, "The launch of the Ambattur dealership marks a pivotal moment in Renault's journey in India. The fact that India became the first country to actualise the new’R store format reaffirms Renault's India strategy. India is at the forefront of Renault's global plans, and soon, the country will witness a completely revamped Renault, offering superior customer experience through acclaimed products, redefined sales experience and globally acclaimed aftersales services."

Kia India, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has announced the starting price for the much anticipated the all-new Kia Syros at INR 899,000.

The Kia Syros compact SUV is inspired from the EV9 and Carnival SUV and offers premium segment-first Over-the-Air (OTA) software update system, Kia Connect 2.0 with more than 80 features, Kia Connect Diagnosis (KCD) and Kia Advanced Total Care (KATC).

In terms of creature comforts the compact SUV with a 2,550mm wheelbase offers 76.2cm (30-inch) Trinity Panoramic Display panel serves as the Connected Car Navigation Cockpit, dedicated 5-inch Climate Control Display, Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, Harman Kardon Premium 8-speaker sound system, Rear Seat Ventilation, sliding and reclining 60:40 split rear seats and dual-pane panoramic sunroof.

Kia Syros is available in two engine options – Smartstream 1.0-liter turbo petrol engine (88.3 kW/120PS, 172Nm) and 1.5-liter CRDi diesel engine (85 kW/116PS, 250Nm). Both engines can be had with manual and automatic transmission choices, including Kia’s first-ever Smartstream G1.0 turbo GDI with a 6MT configuration.

The Syros is available in four trims – HTK, HTK+, HTX, HTX+, with eight colour options – Glacier White Pearl, Sparkling Silver, Pewter Olive, Intense Red, Frost Blue, Aurora Black Pearl, Imperial Blue and Gravity Gray.

For safety the Kia Syros is equipped with Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), featuring 16 autonomous safety features and 20 safety package, including:

• Smart cruise control with Stop & Go
• Front Collision Warning with Avoidance Assist
• Lane Keep Assist and Lane Follow Assist
• 360-degree camera with blind view monitor
• Electronic Stability Control & Hill Start Assist Control
• Six Airbags for Enhanced Protection
• ABS

Joonsu Cho, Chief Sales Officer, Kia India, said, “India is witnessing a rising demand for SUVs, especially among young, tech-savvy, and adventurous drivers who expect more from their vehicles. In line with these evolving preferences, Kia India is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the automotive industry through innovation and customer-centric design. The Kia Syros represents the next evolution in our portfolio – a new species of SUV that blends advanced technology, exceptional comfort, and bold design. What sets it apart is the use of sustainable materials in its interiors, demonstrating our commitment to a greener future. Despite this, the Kia Syros offers a strong value proposition, delivering premium features and unmatched quality that resonate with the aspirations of modern Indian drivers.”

Czech automaker Skoda Auto is celebrating its silver jubilee milestone in India. The OEM had entered the Indian market in January 2000 and had laid the foundation stone for its plant in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (formerly Aurangabad) making it the first Volkswagen Group brand to establish a presence in the domestic market.

The Skoda Octavia was the first model by the Volkswagen Group to be assembled locally in India.

Skoda Auto shared that its India operations plays a key role in its global plans, which has enabled to effectively leverage existing sales potential in the ASEAN region, Middle East, Australia and New Zealand.

It was in 2018, that Volkswagen Group appointed Skoda Auto to spearhead all activities in India jointly since 2018. Fast forward to present, Skoda has developed and produces three models locally in India for India, based on the localised MQB A0–IN platform: the Kushaq, the Slavia and the Kylaq compact SUV. 

Klaus Zellmer, CEO, Skoda Auto, said, “We have built on 25 years of experience in India to make this thriving market the cornerstone of our international growth strategy. With its tremendous talent pool, growing consumer demand, and access to other markets, India is becoming our second pillar outside Europe and helping leverage further sales potential in ASEAN, the Middle East, and the Indo-Pacific region. Skoda has been a notable brand in India since we entered the market with the Octavia in 2001. We now produce in two plants. We have launched three all-new models specifically for India, achieving localisation of up to 95 percent: the Skoda Kushaq, Slavia and just recently the Kylaq compact SUV, which complement the Octavia and Superb we also sell through a growing dealer network. In the last two years, we have increased customer touchpoints across the country by 35 percent. India also contributes to the global sustainability goals of Skoda Auto. One plant already runs entirely on green energy, while the plant in Pune expanded its photovoltaic system to deliver up to 30 percent of its electricity needs. I want to thank all our Indian colleagues for helping power the next stage of our growth, and especially our customers for their trust in our products. With this passion, we can achieve even greater things in the next 25 years!"

Piyush Arora, MD & CEO, Skoda Auto Volkswagen India, said, “Skoda was the first brand to establish Volkswagen Group’s presence in India, setting up its first plant in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar back in January 2000. As Skoda celebrates 25 years in the country, the Group’s focus on the Indian market continues to strengthen. With evolving consumer preferences, we are introducing products that combine the Group’s global expertise with a deep understanding of the Indian market. Today, our model lineup features advanced vehicles designed and built specifically for India, including the newly unveiled compact SUV, Skoda Kylaq.”

“This dynamic market has become the foundation of Skoda’s internationalisation strategy, driven by our commitment to innovation, safety, sustainability and customer-centric solutions. We are dedicated to enhancing our manufacturing capabilities & sales touchpoints and advancing our sustainability initiatives to deliver long-term value to our customers, employees, and communities,” added Arora.