No Water For Over A Week, Shimla Turns Away Tourists: Foreign Media

For generations during scorching Indian summers, tourists have been flocking to Shimla - a hill station retreat with charming colonial architecture and views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks.

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Saudi Prince Plans On Building A Mega City With Latest Robotics

The housing minister says there are plans to build 1 million houses in five years with an investment of over $100 billion, mainly through public-private partnerships. Deals have been signed with South...

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Indian-Origin Doctor From New York Pleads Guilty To Insurance Theft

An Indian-origin physician has pleaded guilty to theft from healthcare benefit programmes and faces a $100,000 penalty.

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Trump, Fast-Food Lover And Exercise Hater, Takes A 'Swing' On Fitness Day

It's Sports and Fitness Day at the White House. That meant President Donald Trump - a man who has spoken out on the dangers of exercising and devours McDonald's, KFC chicken, chocolate cake and double...

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"Muslims Want To Take Over US": White House Appointment Sparks Row

The White House has named a new National Security Council chief of staff from a group that propagates the conspiracy theory that Islamists have infiltrated the U.S. government in a plot to take over...

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BJP Ally Ahead In Nagaland's Lone Parliamentary Seat

The BJP-backed front is ahead in the lone parliamentary seat in Nagaland which went to polls on Monday. NDPP's Tokheho Yepthomi, fielded by the ruling People's Democratic Alliance, is ahead of his...

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41 Dead Animals Found Inside A Closed For Maintenance Pet Store

Police were called to Macomb Pet Land on Saturday and made a disturbing discovery: That the power had been turned off and that 41 of the animals were dead. The pet store owner was charged with...

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In High-Stakes Maharashtra Bypolls, BJP Leads In 1 Seat, Trails In Other

The ruling BJP has taken a lead in both seats where by-polls were held in Maharashtra - Palghar and Bhandara Gondia. The stakes are high for BJP, Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP in the two parliamentary...

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PM Modi Arrives In Malaysia To Meet Newly-Elected Prime Minister Mahathir

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today arrived in Malaysia after a two-day visit to Indonesia. He will meet his newly-elected Malaysian counterpart Mahathir Mohammad in Kuala Lumpur this morning.

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Mayawati Sends Lucknow Home Keys By Post, Not This One Says UP Government

Uttar Pradesh politician Mayawati, under Supreme Court orders to vacate her government-allotted bungalow, speed-posted a set of house keys on Wednesday. What she has given up is a government bungalow...

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Rival RJD Ahead In Bihar's Jokihat, A Prestige Battle For Nitish Kumar

The RJD of Lalu Yadav took an early lead in Bihar's Jokihat, where the by-poll is seen as a prestige battle for Chief Minister Nitish Kumar after the Janata Dal United lawmaker quit the party and...

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BJP Trails In Prestige Battle In UP's Kairana

Counting of votes for the Kairana Lok Sabha and Noorpur Assembly by-elections in Uttar Pradesh began today amid tight security.

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Nipah Virus Claims 2 More Lives In Kerala's Kozhikode; 15 Deaths Till Now

Two more people have died in Kerala of Nipah virus, taking the total number of deaths to 15. Both the cases have been reported from Kozhikode.

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PM Modi Malaysia, Singapore Visit Live: PM Leaves For Singapore

PM Modi is to visit Singapore and Malaysia today after his trip to Indonesia on Wednesday. The Prime Minister will first arrive at Kuala Lumpur where he will be holding a meeting with his Malaysian...

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Petrol Price Cut By 7 Paise, Diesel By 5 Paise Per Litre Today

Prices for petrol and diesel have fallen by 7 paise and 5 paise per litre respectively. This is the second reduction in fuel prices in as many days. The reason behind the drop in prices was softening...

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This Company Pips Google's Alphabet To Become 3rd Most Valuable Firm

At the end of trading Wednesday, its market value was $760 billion, holding off Alphabet, whose market value was $746 billion.

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TCS Boss Targets Faster Growth Despite Warnings From Rivals Like Infosys

The chief executive officer of Tata Consultancy Services Ltd. argues the industry's opportunities today are bigger than they've ever been.

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Bank Strike Enters Day 2: How You May Be Affected

The bank employees went on the strike to press for higher salary hikes. Salary withdrawals from bank branches are likely to get impacted due to the month-end strike.

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Sensex Gains Nearly 250 Points, Nifty Above 10,650

Top gainers on the Nifty were HDFC Bank, Bharti Airtel, ONGC, Tata Steel and Coal India.

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Petrol, Diesel Prices Cut Marginally Again: 5 Things To Know

Despite Wednesday's mild reduction, petrol and diesel prices are still near all-time highs in some cities, including Delhi and Mumbai.

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AirAsia Case: Venkataramanan Says Allegations Baseless

AirAsia is majority-owned by Tatas and Venkataramanan has around 1.5 per cent shareholding in the joint venture with AirAsia Berhad.

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GDP Likely Grew By 7.3 Percent In Q4: Reuters Poll

India's economy probably grew marginally in the March quarter of fiscal 2018, which would ensure that the nation remains the world's fastest growing major economy, a Reuters poll found. Gross domestic...

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RCom Plans $2.68 Billion Asset Sale To Jio, Brookfield In Next Few Weeks

RCom said on Wednesday it expects to complete its asset sale to Reliance Jio Infocomm and Canada's Brookfield in coming weeks,

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Reliance Industries To Halt Oil Imports From Iran: Report

Reliance Industries (RIL) move is the first sign that new US sanctions are forcing buyers to shun oil purchases from Tehran.

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Bad Loans Push State-Run Banks Losses To Highest-Ever In FY18: Report

For the fourth quarter alone, total losses in the state-run banks were Rs 62,681 crore - negating modest profits at Indian Bank and Vijaya Bank.

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Holiday Loans: Guide To Planning Your Vacation Finances

The first step is to make a detailed budget preferably estimating 10 to 15% higher costs to factor in the change in dollar rates and inflation.

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Last Date To File TDS Statement Is Tomorrow

Tax payers who have deducted the TDS and have not deposited by now must pay before May 31 to avoid drawing the penalty

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RCom, Ericsson Reach Settlement On Outstanding Dues

NCLAT in New Delhi has asked RCom to pay Ericsson Rs 550 crore ($81.52 million) by end-September as part of the settlement.

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Moody's Slashes India Growth Forecast In 2018

Higher oil prices and tighter financial conditions will weigh on the pace of acceleration, says the ratings agency.

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Gold Prices Jump Today After 3-Day Fall: 5 Things To Know

Domestic gold prices were supported by firm demand from jewellers and a mild gain in global prices amid political turmoil in Italy, according to traders.

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Sensex, Nifty Fall For Second Day; HPCL Declines Nearly 3%

Domestic equities were under pressure tracking a selloff in global markets amid a political crisis in Italy.

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Cuba’s new leader praises Nicolas Maduro in ‘solidarity’ visit to Venezuela

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Indian-Origin Doctor From New York Pleads Guilty To Insurance Theft

An Indian-origin physician has pleaded guilty to theft from healthcare benefit programmes and faces a $100,000 penalty.

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Tension Between Indian Consulate, Cops Over Canada Blast: Report

There are signs of tension between the Indian Consulate General in Toronto and the regional police over a hotline set up by the diplomatic mission after the explosion at a restaurant in this heavily...

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Sardar Singh, Birendra Lakra return to Indian side for Champions Trophy

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Pro Kabaddi League 2018 Auctions Live: Remaining players to go under the hammer on Day 2 of PKL 2018 Auction

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PKL 2018: Monu Goyat surpasses Sunil Chhetri as costliest non-cricketer in professional sports leagues

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PKL 2018: Five cricketers who were sold for lesser price than Monu Goyat at IPL 2018 auction

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Sam Curran called up to England squad for second Test against Pakistan

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French Open 2018: Benoit Paire falls short, but Kei Nishikori faces another test

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French Open 2018: Grigor Dimitrov survives Jared Donaldson dogfight to reach third round

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French Open 2018: Serena Williams takes on Ashleigh Barty in second round

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CAS decision imminent on Jamaica’s Nesta Carter

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World XI vs West Indies T20 Live Cricket Streaming, WXI vs WI Live Match Streaming Online: When and where to watch West Indies vs World XI Only T20

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Kolkata cop Sangeeta Bera wins mother of all battles to return to rugby

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Vikas Gowda quits discuss throw, turns attention to business studies

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Pro Kabaddi League 2018: At Kabaddi auction, players turn crorepatis

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Real Kashmir’s promotion gives Jammu and Kashmir flavour to I-League

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French Open 2018: Alexander Zverev survives test of nerve in Paris

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French Open 2018: Caroline Wozniacki romps into round three

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French Open 2018: Novak Djokovic hails super-mom Serena Williams

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Former England captain John Terry leaves Aston Villa

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We are in a tough group in Asian Cup, says Gurpreet Singh Sandhu

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BCCI set to increase selectors’, umpires’ salaries

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Pro Kabaddi League 2018 Auctions Day 1: Monu Goyat most expensive buy, Iran’s Fazel Atrachali costliest overseas pick

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Real Kashmir FC beat Hindustan FC to qualify for I-League

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High Court disposes off Minerva owner Ranjit Bajaj’s plea, asks AIFF to decide his appeal in 6 weeks

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French Open 2018: Naomi Osaka lost in her virtual world

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Off-target Novak Djokovic does enough to reach round three in French Open 2018

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Corruption in Sri Lanka cricket goes right to the top, says Arjuna Ranatunga

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PKL 2018: Deepak Hooda, Fazel Atrachali enter crorepati club in season 6

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Viswanathan Anand holds Hikaru Nakamura to an easy draw

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Usain Bolt trains at Norwegian football club Stromsgodset

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Dan Kneen passes away at 2018 Isle of Man TT

Dan Kneen was a local Isle of Man road racer who had his first run at the mountain course in 2008, riding in the Manx Grand Prix. He had an outstanding debut that year, taking three wins.

Having stood on the podium for the first time at last year’s Tourist Trophy, Kneen was one of the favourites coming into this year’s event. His performance was impressive enough for him to be offered a seat by Tyco BMW – one of the best teams in the road racing paddock. Riding for them at last year’s Ulster Grand Prix, Kneen secured podium finishes in both the Superstock and Superbike categories. He looked extremely promising at this year’s TT, improving his personal best lap to 212.848kph on Tuesday.

Unfortunately, on Wednesday, May 30, 2018, Dan Kneen came off his motorcycle on his opening lap of practice at Churchtown. The session was immediately red-flagged, but the road racer passed away at the site of the accident.

Dan was a universally loved figure in the TT paddock. We send out our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends in the wake of this tragedy.

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Best new bike discounts this month

SCOOTERS

Honda Activa 5G

Save up to Rs 3,500
The Activa 5G (as the name suggests) is the fifth-generation model of the scooter. It gets an LED headlamp, two new colours, and a few other updates. It was launched just two months ago but is already available with a discount. Dealers are offering discounts ranging from Rs 2,500-3,500 for both STD and DLX models.

Suzuki Access 125

Save up to Rs 3,000
The Suzuki Access 125 has proven itself as being known for its refinement, comfort, reliability and performance. It is Suzuki’s biggest seller in India and can be had with a cashback of up to Rs 3,000. Some dealers, however, are offering it with a cash discount ranging from Rs 1,000-2,000.

MOTORCYCLES

Kawasaki Z1000

Save up to Rs 2.5 lakh
Back in April 2018, Kawasaki was selling many of its 2017 with huge discounts. Well, there are still a handful of Z1000s remaining and they are being offered with a discount of up to Rs 2.5 lakh. The bikes have a manufacturing date of 2017 but will be sold as brand-new models. Powering the Z1000 is a 1,043cc, four-cylinder motor making 142hp and 111Nm of torque.

Kawasaki Ninja 300

Save up to Rs 50,000
Kawasaki dealers are offering the Ninja 300 with discounts ranging from Rs 40,000-50,000. The 296cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled engine in the baby Ninja makes 39hp and 27Nm of torque. The motorcycle has begun showing its age, especially when compared to its larger sibling, the new Ninja 400.

Bajaj CT100 Kick Start Alloy

Save up to Rs 9,000
Bajaj is offering its most-affordable motorcycle – the CT100 (kick-start, alloy wheel variant) with a huge discount of Rs 9,000. The bike is now priced at Rs 32,000; down from Rs 41,000 (both prices, ex-showroom Delhi) which equates to a huge saving of around 25 percent.

TVS Apache RTR 160

Save up to Rs 5,000
TVS has launched a new colour scheme for the RTR 160, called the ‘White Race Edition’. This special-edition Apache RTR 160 remains mechanically identical to the standard bike and is not to be confused with the all-new 160 4V. Some dealerships in Mumbai are selling this older variant of the Apache 160 with a discount of Rs 5,000. This is a cash discount and is applicable to both variants of the RTR 160.

Suzuki Gixxer, Gixxer SF

Save up to Rs 5,000
Certain dealers in New Delhi are offering all variants of the Gixxer and Gixxer SF with a cashback of Rs 5,000. This is thanks to a tie-up with an Indian e-commerce payment system. For 2018, Suzuki gave both, the Gixxer and Gixxer SF, a new two-tone colour – Candy Sonoma Red/Metallic Sonic Silver.

Suzuki Intruder

Save up to Rs 5,000
Like the Gixxer and Gixxer SF, the Intruder is also being offered with a cashback of Rs 5,000 in Delhi. The Intruder is a fairly new motorcycle launched back in November 2017. It borrows the Gixxer’s 154.9cc air-cooled mill and is available with both, carburettor and fuel-injection options.

Honda CB Hornet 160R

Save up to Rs 2,500
The Hornet recently received an update for 2018. While the styling of the updated motorcycle is similar to its predecessor, it now gets new colour options and restyled graphics. The two-wheeler's design highlight is the inclusion of an LED headlight and a redesigned housing for the instrument cluster. Dealers are offering all units of the 160R with a cashback of Rs 2,500. If you are looking for a cash discount, you will be able to talk a few dealers into giving you Rs 1,000 off the on-road cost.

Disclaimer: Discounts vary from city to city. Please check with your local dealer for exact discounts, which may not match figures quoted here.

Also see:

Best new car discounts this month

New cars and SUVs launched in 2018

New car launches around the corner

Hot new bikes for 2018

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Light and Agile: MGB vs DH 82 Tiger Moth

Getting up close and personal with a vintage or classic machine is a special experience. More often than not, you are transported into an era only remembered in sepia tones, where the style, mechanical feel and sheer build quality of the good old days whisks your mind away immediately. This fascinating journey into the past is even more intriguing if there’s someone on hand to explain the oily bits. So when friends from the Indian Air Force invite us to come up to the Lohegaon Air Force station in Pune and take a close look at their recently resurrected DH 82 Tiger Moth, we all but jump.

"Bring along something appropriately light, sporty and mechanically simple,” says Group Captain Umesh Sharma, technical head at Lohegaon, whose job it is to keep India’s Sukhoi Su 30 MKIs fighting fit. A quick call to classic car collector and aficionado Govind Thakker in Pune means we soon have an appropriate car, a 1964 MGB. What a pair they make; one the quintessential trainer, the other the iconic droptop roadster. Both minimalist, both delivering more than you expect in terms of performance, both quintessentially British.

IAF men found the MGB just as attractive.

There’s not much I can add to the legend of the de Havilland Tiger Moth, other than to say that it was probably the most versatile and loved training aircraft ever built. Born in the 1930s as a trainer for the Royal Air Force, it is still alive and kicking today in private hands; an exceptional feat in itself. Though it may look ancient, the Tiger Moth wasn’t one of the really early biplanes. Basically an evolution of the Gipsy Moth with the wings and front cockpit moved away from each other, so that the pilot could climb out and use a parachute without getting stuck, the Tiger Moth was the 911 of biplanes – a design made perfect through a series of evolutions. The wings were swept back in an effort to maintain the same centre of lift, designer Geoffrey de Havilland had strengthened the structure to help it handle higher g forces and the Tiger Moth got fold-down doors as well.

The MGB was more revolutionary than evolutionary as well. Evolved from the TC, which had a stand-up vintage car radiator and large flowing fenders, the B took convertible construction into the modern era. A monocoque construction rather than one that used a rigid frame, the B was designed to be light on its feet and fun to drive. Getting rid of the heavy frame contributed quite a bit and a sporty independent front suspension helped as well. Like the Tiger Moth, the MGB stayed in production for many years too, with production of the car stretching all the way to the 80s, its elegant lines making it nothing less than a design classic. The clean flowing lines, long bonnet and stubby windscreen all scream classic Brit roadster and the recessed headlamps and generous smattering of chrome all add to the appeal. The look is completed by the wire wheels and the neatly integrated chrome grille. The functional but sporty interior is similar in some ways to that of the Moth. Easy-to-read white-on-black instruments are placed on a non-reflective black crackle dash and the elegant sweep of the instrument panel adds aesthetic appeal.

While aesthetics play little part in engineering the skin of an aircraft, the simplistic lines of the Moth are impossibly elegant too, especially in high-visibility yellow. Its slightly sweptback wings make it look particularly racy, there’s a certain romance to the twin open cockpits and the ellipsoid all-moving tail is aesthetically pleasing as well. What comes as a shock, to most observers, is the fact that much of the aircraft is made up of canvas stretched over wooden spars. Look closely at the wings and you can see the fabric stretching.

Mechanically the Tiger Moth is dead simple too. In the nose sits an upside-down air-cooled in-line four cylinder engine. More motorcycle engine-like to look at, with tubes for the pushrod valve-train visible, this single carburetor motor was made by de Havilland. Known as the Gipsy Major, the motor was mounted upside-down so that the crankshaft could be mounted in line with the propellor head, without having the cylinders obstruct the view of the pilot (most modern-day piston engine aircraft use horizontally opposed or flat engines to get around this problem). This version of the engine is known as the Gipsy II, and power output is 143bhp. How big is the engine? Try and guess, keeping in mind this motor was designed in the ’30s and aircraft engines have to be relatively unstressed. This engine displaces 6100cc! The MGB’s motor is almost as peppy. It makes 95bhp, plenty for this 900kg car, but engine capacity in comparison is only 1798cc. Pushrods actuated valves and carburetors feature here as well, but unlike the Moth, this engine is water-cooled. Firing up the MGB is a civilized exercise needing only one person. Turn the key, pump the pedal and you are greeted by a husky, gruff exhaust note.

The Moth needs a bit more effort. There are no electric systems on this aircraft, so someone has to spin the propellor to crank the engine. This takes quite some time. The motor has just been serviced and the cranky old girl simply refuses to fire, even after 10 or 15 attempts (Bullet owners, I’m told, can relate to this). Then, just when the mechanics have all but given up hope, the motor coughs and then fires, the blare from the unsilenced and under-slung exhaust sounding like a brace of British racing motorcycles.

What follows is a brief but really exciting air display, with the Tiger Moth showing off its fully aerobatic, low-speed handling. The Indian Air Force pilots take some really tight turns above the crowd of onlookers and the Moth just charms its way into everyone’s hearts. Then, just to show how far down the road we have come, an IAF Su 30 MKI thunders into the blue, disappearing from view in seconds, buffeting our eardrums and snapping us back to modern times again. What a charming morning.

Factfile
	MGB	DH 82 TIGER MOTH
Top speed	160kph	175kph
Length	3886mm	7340mm
Width	1524mm	8940mm
Height	1219mm	2680mm
Wheelbase	2312mm	NA
Kerb weight	920kg	505.7kg
Engine	4 cyls, 1798cc	Gipsy Major, 4 cyls, 6100cc (upside-down)
Power	96hp	145hp
Torque	150Nm	NA

In conversation with Captain Dange, IAF

You’re a test pilot for the HAL LIght Combat Aircraft, but today you’re flying this Vintage Moth. It must be a huge contrast.
I can tell you that in terms of rate of turn, the Moth can beat any contemporary fighter jet in the world. Because it flies slow, its manoeuvering capability is extremely good. Because of the piston engine, throttle responses are very good as well, so flying this aircraft is actually extremely enjoyable.

Delhi to Pune must have needed a few stops?
This aircraft has a limited range and so we are flying very short sectors. We flew Delhi, Narnol, Jaipur, Kishengad, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Ahmedabad, Baroda, Surat, Nashik and now Pune. The weather out of Delhi was very poor, and then visibility dropped drastically. It was extremely challenging for me and Wing Commander Kulshrest – we had to take turns navigating by the instruments and flying while peering through the fog. Initially we were cruising 70 or 72 miles an hour, but winds picked up over Ahmedabad and so our real ground speed was no more than 40. We were even getting a drift of around 40 degrees to the right, the first time I had ever experienced something like that in my life.

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Blog: 5 unquestionably American things about the Ford Mustang GT

In a world of increasing environmental consciousness, political correctness, downsizing and technological advancements, the Ford Mustang GT is an old-school punch in the face that only America could deliver, like a large Big Mac meal with unlimited drink refills and extra cheese. Here’s five very American things about it – for better and for worse.

1. Ain’t no replacement for displacement:

Europe can have its turbos, this is the US of A, and size is everything. Sure, the specific output is woefully low compared to a car with forced induction, but who cares when you have that incredible warble accompanying you everywhere. However, the fuel economy may work at US petrol prices; not so much at Rs 82 per litre.

2. Big Yeller:

A British sportscar revels in being small, nimble and tightly honed. A Mustang does not. A Mustang is loud and proud (especially when painted yellow) and its size is part of the shock and awe. It’s a two-door car with 2+2 seating, but it’s as big as a luxury sedan, and seeing as how it makes everyone get out of your way, that’s just fine by us.

3. XXL cup holders:

We’ve often complained about cars whose cupholders are so small, you can’t fit two mid-size Styrofoam coffee cups side by side without ruining your morning – because the coffee would spill out and you won’t have had any. Not here, though. These massive caverns are designed for supersized cups and would swallow a can of Red Bull whole. So if you like a cup of Joe on the go, you’ve come to the right place.

4. Line Lock: 

Launch Control is a computer program designed to make a car take off from a standstill as quickly as its powertrain and the laws of physics will allow. Line Lock is sort of the opposite. It’s a feature that deliberately lets you mince the car’s rear tyres by locking the front brakes, letting you do massive, smoky burnouts in order to entertain your passengers and put a smile on the face of everyone in the vicinity. Land of the Free, indeed.

5. Extra cheese: 

The Mustang is surprisingly well equipped, with things like multi-colour ambient lighting, and seats that are heated AND cooled, not to mention driving modes and an in-built lap timer, all of which make its relatively reasonable price seem like even better value. But, as with a lot of cars designed for the US market, interior quality leaves a bit to be desired, and for this price, owners might expect more.

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2018 Mini Countryman local assembly begins

After launching the all-new Countryman earlier this month at Rs 34.90 lakh, Mini has now commenced local assembly of its largest model yet at the BMW Group plant in Chennai.

The 2018 Mini Countryman is being assembled in India right from day one and – according to Vikram Pawah, president, BMW Group India – has over 50 percent local content, which is similar to other locally assembled BMW models. This gives the Countryman a competitive price tag, which is something the company is hoping will double its sales in India. 

To refresh your memory, the second-gen Mini Countryman is available in three variants – the Cooper S (Rs 34.90 lakh), Cooper SD (Rs 37.40 lakh) and the sporty Cooper S JCW Inspired (Rs 41.40 lakh) (all prices, ex-showroom).

The new Mini Countryman is based on the same UKL platform as its cousin, the BMW X1, and can be had with a petrol or a diesel engine. The petrol – powering the Cooper S and Cooper S JCW Inspired – is a 2.0-litre, turbocharged example making 192hp and 280Nm of torque. The Cooper SD gets a 2.0-litre diesel producing 190hp and 400Nm of torque. Power goes to the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic gearbox, and while the four-wheel-drive or ALL4 versions are available internationally, the India-spec Countryman is FWD only.

When it comes to features, the new Countryman sports the latest iDrive infotainment system with a touchscreen. The S JCW Inspired variant looks spicier, and packs in front apron air ducts, 18-inch alloys (non-JCW trims get 17-inch wheels), a rear spoiler and other additional equipment such as a rear view camera, a sporty steering wheel, a Harman Kardon system, a head-up display, wireless charging and stainless-steel pedal covers.

Also see:

2018 Mini Countryman India image gallery

2018 Mini Countryman Cooper S review, test drive

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Kia holds first supplier meet in New Delhi

Kia Motors has plans to commence production operations from mid-2019 – an ambitious plan that is shaping up well, especially with the construction of its upcoming plant in the Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh. The plant has a production capacity of 3 lakh units.

At the same time, though, Kia Motors India is also getting itself ready for the required logistical and ancillary support needed to start operating in the country. To this end, the carmaker conducted its first supplier development event in New Delhi on May 29, 2018. Over 150 automotive vendors from the northern belt were invited. These vendors have been shortlisted by Kia as prospective component suppliers for all of its local production.

Kia Motors India roped-in Crescendo Worldwide – a Germany-based consulting firm – to be responsible for scouting for suppliers based on their past credentials and capabilities, approaching them and then shifting the ones most suitable for future business with Kia Motors India. The firm specialises in the automotive domain and assists companies with global expansions.

While around 25 Tier-1 Korean vendors have already been finalised to supply proprietary parts, the agenda of the meet in New Delhi was to finalise Tier-2 vendors to supply child parts for the bigger assemblies. For a smooth start-off, the manufacturer intends for around 45-50 percent of the total vendor count to comprise of Korean suppliers. These companies will set up their bases in a vendor park being developed around Kia Motors’ 536-acre campus in Andhra Pradesh.

The company targets close to an initial 80 percent localisation of its components in India and also aims to leverage economies of scale. Kia is eventually looking to make India its hub for global procurement and a prime source of parts for its international subsidiaries. Metal casting and fabrication of parts are on the top of the list for localisation; while drivetrain, electronics (including infotainment) and critical engine components will be imported directly from Korea, at least for now.

The company has deployed Lee Sanghwa as its chief procurement officer in India. Sanghwa has a 26-year experience within Kia Motors; his mission is to help expand Kia’s global manufacturing footprint to India with the new plant and to localise components with the help of Indian Tier-1 and Tier-2 automotive component suppliers.

Kia commissioned its first integrated automotive assembly plant in Korea in 1973. Over the past decade, the company has been on an expansion spree. It has opened new plants in China (2002), Czechoslovakia (2006), the US (2009), Mexico (2016) and India (due 2019). With Mexican operations recently underway, Kia is looking for a strategy to source components for Mexico from India.

While the New Delhi event kick-started its supplier development activities, the company will be holding a similar event in Pune soon – within the next 15 days – inviting more participants, and particularly a larger number of Tier-1 players based out of the western automotive hub. Similar events will later reach Bangalore and Chennai, as well.

Also see:

Kia Grand Carnival: 5 things to know

Production-spec Kia SP Concept SUV likely to be called Trazor

Kia evaluating Stonic, Grand Carnival for India

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Most fun-to-drive small cars under Rs 10 lakh in India

1. Fiat Abarth Punto

Small turbo-petrol with big power? Check. Able chassis? Check. Hydraulic steering? Check. The Abarth Punto is the affordable hot hatch we’ve always wanted. Its 145hp, 1.4-litre turbo-petrol engine is an absolute firecracker, and what elevates the experience is the way the Punto lights up in the corners. It’s far from perfect in other areas, but true petrolheads are sure to see the Abarth as flawed but fabulous.
Abarth Punto price: Rs 9.67 lakh

2. Ford Freestyle 1.5D

From behind the wheel you wouldn’t be able to tell that Ford’s new Figo-based Freestyle cross-hatch sits on a raised suspension. It’s keen to turn in and balanced, and the 190mm ground clearance and suspension’s ability to smoothen out bumps mean you can make the most of the handling package even when the roads are far from perfect. The peppy diesel engine completes the package.
Freestyle diesel prices: 
1.5 Ambiente          Rs 6.09 lakh
1.5 Trend                  Rs 6.99 lakh
1.5 Titanium            Rs 7.35 lakh
1.5 Titanium+          Rs 7.89 lakh

3. Ford Figo 1.5D Sports Edition

The Ford Figo Sports Edition is about so much more than its rear spoiler and blacked-out detailing. This version’s larger wheels, chunkier tyres and tweaked suspension make it great fun to drive. Opt for the peppy 100hp/215Nm, 1.5-litre diesel and you’ll also experience a small diesel engine done right. This is a budget hatchback that carries the ‘Sport’ suffix with aplomb.
Figo Sports Edition diesel price: Rs 7.74 lakh

4. Maruti Suzuki Baleno RS

The souped-up Maruti Suzuki Baleno, if you please, may be lacking in outright numbers – its 1-litre turbo-petrol engine makes 102hp and 150Nm. But factor in its sub 1-tonne weight and you’ll know why the Baleno RS is as brisk as it is. Still, it isn’t quite an all-round entertainer. The numb steering, in particular, lets the package down. What the Baleno RS does do well is blend practicality and fun in one package.
Baleno RS price: Rs 8.44 lakh

5. Volkswagen Polo GT TSI

The only automatic in the list, the Volkswagen Polo GT TSI has a superb Jekyll-and-Hyde ability to go from comfortable city runabout one moment, to zippy little cracker the next. Thanks to that seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox, the 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine’s performance is just so easy to access that even those who aren’t all-out petrolheads will find some enjoyment in it. If only, the steering was more feelsome too.
Polo GT TSI price: Rs 9.20 lakh

Prices are ex-showroom, Delhi as on May 30, 2018.

Also see:

2017 Baleno RS vs Polo GT TSI vs Abarth Punto comparison video

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7 tips to get the best fuel efficiency from your car

Petrol and diesel are among those rare commodities that tend to get dearer with time. The last 16 days have seen fuel prices rise steadily as well. One of the most effective ways of offsetting the rising fuel cost is by ensuring that your vehicle covers more distance on every tankfull. Extracting more kilometres out of each litre of fuel calls for paying attention to a few simple efficient driving measures.

Now, the general tendency is to blame the vehicle for its poor mileage. However, a vehicle’s fuel consumption is also linked to our individual driving style. Certain vehicles, owing to their body weight and engine size, are more fuel efficient than others. For example, light hatchbacks tend to be the most fuel efficient cars as they weigh less and are driven by smaller engines, while SUVs weigh a lot more and need bigger engines which guzzle more fuel. Irrespective of the vehicle type, however, you can improve fuel economy by following these simple measures.

1. Use the least throttle

While driving, use the least amount of throttle possible. An engine uses most of the fuel in overcoming inertia and attaining speeds from stationary. So to lessen this, you should accelerate in a smooth and steady manner, and push as softly on the accelerator as possible. Speed is not necessarily bad per say, but build the speed smoothly.

 Think of it as running a marathon, where you need to plan your pace and keep some energy in reserve. Accelerating fast and driving at a higher speed will consume more fuel than driving in a gentle manner. Screeching tyres while driving away from the traffic light might feel good. But it will also increase the fuel consumption, thereby increasing your expenditure.

2. Anticipate and drive

Driving in the wrong gear will adversely affect efficiency.

We have to stop and start while driving but the trick is to smoothen the flow. Look at the road ahead and observe the flow of traffic. By anticipating the way traffic moves, you can plan your manoeuvres and avoid unnecessary acceleration and braking. Spot traffic signals early so that you can get off the throttle and allow the vehicle to coast to a stop rather than braking hard at the last minute.

By driving at a steady speed, you will save fuel and even catch up with faster vehicles. Likewise, there’s no point in charging past slower moving traffic only to get caught up in traffic ahead.

3. Switch off

Switch off the engine if you will be idling for more than thirty seconds.

Modern engines come equipped with a fair amount of technology and don’t complain if you re-start them often. Excessive idling not only wastes precious fuel but also pollutes the environment. Nowadays, most traffic lights display the number of seconds left before the signal turns green. Switch off the engine if you are going to wait for a considerable amount of time.

4. Shed weight and drag

The lighter the vehicle, the lesser the strain on the engine.

All manufacturers try to keep the vehicle's weight as low as possible without affecting its safety. When the overall weight of the vehicle is low, there is less strain on the engine and the energy required is less. A lighter vehicle will consume less fuel than a heavier one powered by the same engine. Hence, it is vital to keep the vehicle light wherever possible.

At times, we use the boot to store things that we require but forget to remove at a later date. If there are any unnecessary bags, stray items or trash lying in the vehicle’s boot then get rid of them right away.

Car manufacturers also design their vehicles in a way that they are as aerodynamic as possible and offer the least amount of drag. However, a roof rack on your car increases wind resistance. According to research, roof mounted cargo boxes can reduce the fuel efficiency by around two to five percent. Hence, if you aren’t using the roof rack on the particular trip or commute, then remove it. 

5. Maintain your car

Only a properly maintained vehicle will deliver good efficiency.

One common mistake made by car owners is that they skip regular services thinking it will save cash. The general attitude is to fix the car only after it breaks down. But servicing your vehicle and replacing its components as per the manufacturer recommended intervals are vital to keep the car healthy. Only a healthy car will perform optimally and deliver good fuel efficiency. A poorly maintained engine cannot give you good economy.

Certain consumables like the air and oil filter along with engine oil need to be regularly replaced or changed. An air filter prevents dust from entering the engine and owing to our dusty conditions, it gets clogged after a few thousand kilometres of running. A choked air filter will result in the engine producing less power which will make you step on the accelerator more.

The engine oil lubricates various moving parts and ends up accumulating grime. It also loses its viscosity due to high operating temperatures, and not replacing it regularly will strain the engine more. A vehicle that is maintained well will consume a lot less fuel than a poorly kept one.

6. Increase tyre pressure

Vehicle owners underestimate the importance of tyres and their role in achieving good fuel economy. Tyres are the only contact patch between the vehicle and ground. Most of the engine power gets utilised in making the tyres roll as they create rolling resistance.

Low tyre pressure increases resistance, making the engine work more, which in turn increases its fuel usage. Hence, it is important to keep the tyres inflated at either the recommended air pressure or higher. Check the tyre pressure once every week and before going on a long drive. The vehicle’s correct tyre pressure information is usually mentioned on the driver’s side door. Get the wheels balanced and aligned at recommended intervals.

7. Fuel quality

Adulterated fuel not only lowers the fuel efficiency but also harms the engine. Before tanking up your vehicle, always check the fuel quality. Today you can check the volume and density of fuel being sold at any pump without being charged. It is also advisable to tank up from a big fuel pump in the city that is company owned. While travelling on the highway, avoid filling fuel from small and dodgy looking outlets.

The fuel consumption of a vehicle depends on a number of factors. Some of them like traffic congestion and road conditions will never be under your control. Improving your driving style and keeping your car in good shape will help you achieve better fuel economy irrespective of the conditions. Extracting more kilometres out of every litre of fuel isn’t difficult and on the contrary, can actually be fun. Just follow our step wise guide. 

Also see:

Calculate your car's fuel efficiency correctly

Top 10 fuel-efficient petrol cars in India

Top 10 fuel-efficient diesel cars in India

Top 10 fuel-efficient automatic cars in India

10 most fuel-efficient motorcycles in India

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Roll-out of 10,000 EVs for government officials delayed

In an ambitious move, last year, the government ordered 10,000 electric cars to replace petrol and diesel cars used by its officials. The purpose behind the order of these 10,000 electric cars was to make electric vehicles more popular and reduce harmful emissions.

However, the June 2018 deadline has been missed and the government has delayed its plan by one additional year. Energy Efficiency Services Ltd. (EESL), the government-owned entity, was given the task of acquiring 10,000 cars. EESL had announced a tender for 10,000 cars in September last year and had planned to put 500 cars in operation by November and the rest by June 2018. As it stands, only 150 cars have been employed in New Delhi and another 100 odd cars in Andhra Pradesh and other provinces. This tender for electric cars was won by Tata Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra.

According to Bloomberg, the main reason for the low deployment of electric cars is the lack of charging stations. Currently there are 200 charging stations for government cars, of which around 100 are located in the capital city. Bids for charging stations have not received any positive reception, so far, and without adequate charging stations, it looks like an uphill task to put the proposed number of 10,000 cars in operation. Despite this, the government looks positive; and earlier this year in March, EESL floated a second tender for an additional 10,000 electric cars.

The push for electric vehicles comes from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration which is targeting to replace more than 30 percent of the cars used by officials with electric vehicles, on-road by 2030. The government's shift to electric vehicles is an attempt to reduce air pollution while also reducing the country's reliance on fossil fuels – the most expensive commodity imported by India. However, lack of subsidies for electric vehicles and the almost non-existent charging infrastructure in the country are among the biggest hurdles faced by electric vehicle manufacturers in India.

 

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Indian Navy organises Mumbai-Leh-Mumbai drive

The Indian Navy has organised a car rally called the Surf to Snow drive to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Western Naval Command. The rally will see 120 people driving 10 Mahindra SUVs over 9,500km, from Mumbai to Leh and back again. Having begun on May 3, the SUVs will travel through Gujarat and Rajasthan on the way to Delhi and go through UP and Madhya Pradesh on the way back, taking a total of 32 days.

The route taken for the rally saw participants make their first stop in Vadodra after starting at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai. The last part of the Leg 1 was flagged off on May 7 in Jaipur, before heading to Delhi, where Leg 2 began. Each serious climb into the mountains is accompanied by a day of rest, so that participants may acclimatise to the high altitude.

At each of the stops, participants also interact with students from various schools on the route, from the Gitanjali Institute of Technical Studies and Swami Vivekanand Govt Model School at Udaipur to the Spiti Children Home School, Munsel-Ling and Bishop Cotton School, Shimla. The fourth leg of the rally is underway from Delhi back to Mumbai via Nashik.

Also see:

2018 Indian Navy Surf to Snow rally image gallery

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ICAT Centre II for automotive testing inaugurated

The International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT) – conceived under the Indian government’s National Automotive Testing and R&D Infrastructure Project (NATRiP) – saw the inauguration of its Centre II, which has state-of-the-art, advanced automotive testing facilities.

ICAT currently undertakes major activities like for the automobile industry like homologation and certification as per Indian regulations; testing as per various Indian and global regulations; and developmental and automotive R&D projects.

ICAT is the first of the new world-class centres established under NATRiP. It is spread across eight acres (32,376 sq.mt) at Centre I and over 46.6 acres (1,87,335 sq.mt) at Centre II, with a capital investment of over Rs 1,100 crore.

The new facilities being inaugurated at ICAT’s Centre II include:

Noise Vibration & Harshness (NVH) Lab:

Around Rs 153 crore was invested in the NVH lab. It is equipped with facilities such as Semi-Anechoic Rooms with dynamometer capabilities for PVs and HCVs, modal analysis room, coupled acoustic rooms and listening room. The Passenger Car Semi-Anechoic Chamber has the capability to simulate external Pass by Noise test for development of vehicles to meet present and future regulatory requirements.

Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Lab:

This lab was created with an investment of around Rs 70 crore for certification and R&D in the field of Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC), which is the ability of a vehicle or electrical/electronic component to function satisfactorily in its electromagnetic environment.

The EMC lab has a Vehicle Semi-Anechoic Chamber (VSAC) that can accommodate all types of vehicles ranging from two-wheelers to heavy commercial vehicles for electromagnetic emissions and immunity testing.

It also has a Component Semi-Anechoic Chamber (CSAC) for testing of electromagnetic emissions and immunity for electrical/electronic components of a vehicle. It is also equipped with a general instrumentation room for component-level tests like conducted immunity, conducted transient emissions and electrostatic discharge.

Passive Safety Lab (PSL):

The Rs 68-crore facility provides certification and R&D in the field of passive safety. It is capable of performing crash tests, pedestrian protection tests and sled tests as per various Indian, International and NCAP regulations (including Bharat NCAP).

The lab is equipped with full-fledged crash test facilities to conduct full frontal, frontal ODB, side impact, and rear impact crash tests, among others, as per Indian and International regulations. It has all types of instrumented crash dummies, with dummy calibration facility, high-speed cameras, specialised lightings, onboard data acquisition system, soak room, pedestrian protection test facility, deceleration sled test facility and airbag test facility among others.

Tyre Test Lab (TTL):

The Tyre Test Lab (TTL) provides services related to Type Approval and Conformity of Production of Tyres. ICAT has developed new capabilities for this lab, including the installation of Dual Station Endurance Test Rig and Tyre Rolling Resistance Test Rig.

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Royal Enfield LockStock wild custom build unveiled

At an event organised by The Bike Shed, Royal Enfield unveiled a purpose-built dragster based on the 650cc twins, expected later this year. Featuring a long, low-slung design, the LockStock shares its engine and fuel tank with the Continental GT 650. These seem to be the only parts shared with the standard bike – the frame, cycle parts and body panels all differ from the Continental GT.

The face of the motorcycle is formed by a neat-looking LED ring housed in what appears to be a carbon-fibre front screen. The front mudguard extends quite far forward and closely hugs the tyre. Two bulbous belly pan units are present on either side of the bike, and these house its large exhaust exits.

The bike's frame is a hardtail, which means it doesn’t feature any rear suspension whatsoever. The wheelbase is significantly longer than the Continental GT, which is certainly an attempt to aid its straightline stability. Major upgrades to the cycle parts include an upside-down fork from Ohlins and six-spoke alloy wheels. It also gets a single (but huge) disc brake at the front being bitten by a four-piston Brembo caliper, while the rear gets a conventional-looking disc brake set-up. Tyre dimensions are also larger than those of the standard motorcycle. The handlebar faces downwards at both ends at an extreme, almost vertical angle, and a steering damper is present on the left side of the motorcycle.

Propulsion comes from the 648cc parallel-twin engine seen on the Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650. In stock form, this motor puts out 48hp at 7,100rpm and 52Nm of torque at 4,000rpm when mated to a six-speed gearbox. Although it would be wise to expect a very different state of tune, especially since the LockStock also carries what seems to be a nitrous can behind its engine.

Its long wheelbase, hardtail rear and (possible) nitrous upgrade mean that this bike should make for a fitting dragster. All these elements also combine to form a striking and purposeful-looking motorcycle. Royal Enfield has cleverly timed the reveal of the LockStock as it helps keep the anticipation for the 650 twins buzzing while the crowd waits for their launch in the coming months.

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Best new car discounts this month

HATCHBACKS

Hyundai Grand i10

Save up to Rs 1 lakh
The Grand i10 is Hyundai’s answer to the Maruti Suzuki Swift. A comfortable and practical hatchback, it comes with an 83hp, 1.2-litre petrol and a 75hp, 1.2-litre diesel engine option. There’s also an option of a petrol-automatic. The Grand i10’s sluggish sales have made Hyundai offer discounts and benefits in the range of Rs 1 lakh on this stylish hatchback.

Honda Jazz diesel

Save up to Rs 1 lakh
The Jazz takes on the Hyundai i20 and the Maruti Suzuki Baleno. Powered by a 100hp, 1.5-litre diesel, the hatchback’s spacious and practical cabin gets trick folding seats that add to the cargo space. However, styling is a bit bland, which could be one of the reasons why the model is a slow-seller. Discounts in the range of Rs 1 lakh are on offer on this capable Honda.

Ford Figo

Save up to Rs 75,000
The Figo will soon get a mid-cycle update. In a bid to clear stocks, dealers are offering discounts and offers in the range of Rs 75,000. The Figo takes on the Swift but loses out on equipment like a touchscreen infotainment system. It comes with an 88hp, 1.2-litre petrol and a 100hp, 1.5-litre diesel engine.

Maruti Ignis

Save up to Rs 65,000
Maruti’s quirky hatchback is available with 75hp, 1.3-litre diesel and 83hp, 1.2-litre petrol engines and also comes decently equipped, with the top variant getting LED lights. Its cabin has a decent amount of space with good headroom. Benefits in the range of Rs 65,000 are on offer on both petrol and diesel variants of the Ignis at Maruti’s Nexa outlets.

SUVs & MPVs

Honda CR-V

Save up to Rs 2.25 lakh
Honda will replace the current-gen CR-V with an all-new model later this year. The outgoing CR-V is now being offered at a discount of Rs 2.25 lakh. The SUV is well-known for its versatile nature and is a capable all-rounder. It, however, does not come with a diesel engine but gets the options of a 156hp, 2.0-litre and a 190hp, 2.4-litre petrol engine. The CR-V takes on the Hyundai Tucson and the Jeep Compass petrol in our market.

Toyota Innova Crysta petrol

Save up to Rs 55,000
The petrol-powered Innova Crysta is a slow seller for an obvious reason, like low fuel economy. It, however, comes with a refined 166hp, 2.7-litre engine that is responsive when required. When it comes to the cabin and features list, it is well-equipped. However, the steering is a bit on the heavier side. The Innova Crysta petrol is now being offered at a discount in the range of Rs 55,000 at most locations, depending on unsold inventory.

Jeep Compass petrol

Save up to Rs 50,000
The Compass petrol comes with Fiat’s 163hp, 1.4-litre turbo engine. There is no 4WD on offer but all the other plus points of the SUV still remain. Its cabin is spacious for five adults and it is decently sized for tight city roads too. Key rivals include the Hyundai Tucson, Volkswagen Tiguan and the Honda CR-V.

SEDANS

BMW 330i M-Sport

Save up to Rs 7 lakh
The BMW 330i M-Sport comes with a punchy, 252hp petrol engine, well-equipped cabin and M-Sport goodies like additional exterior and interior bits. Add to that the popular BMW 3-series handling characteristics. The Mercedes C-class rival is available at a discount of Rs 7 lakh at all locations.

2018 Mercedes E-class

Save up to Rs 3.5 lakh
The latest-gen E-class is an epitome of a game changer thanks to the added length that facilitates acres of legroom for the rear passengers. Available with two diesels and a petrol engine option, the long-wheelbase E-class, currently, has no direct competition, as its rivals don’t come in this configuration. However, the BMW 5-series, Jaguar XF and the new BMW 6-series GT are good options at that price point.

Hyundai Xcent

Save up to Rs 1 lakh
A direct rival to the Maruti Dzire and the new Honda Amaze, the Hyundai Xcent has a narrow cabin but comes on par with its competitors as far as the equipment list goes. It comes with 1.2-litre petrol and diesel engine options, along with a petrol-automatic option as well. Discounts in the range of Rs 1 lakh are on offer on the smallest Hyundai sedan in India.

Maruti Ciaz diesel

Save up to Rs 65,000
The Ciaz gets Maruti’s fuel-saving SHVS tech, spacious interiors and a decent features list. A mid-cycle update is due soon, which could be the reason why Maruti’s Nexa dealers are offering discounts in the range of Rs 65,000 on the Ciaz. Key rivals include the Honda City, the recently launched Toyota Yaris and the Hyundai Verna.

Honda City

Save up to Rs 65,000
Honda’s popular sedan sees stiff competition from the recently launched Toyota Yaris, the Hyundai Verna and the Maruti Ciaz. It comes with a refined 119hp, 1.5-litre petrol as well as a 100hp, 1.5-litre diesel engine. Top-spec trims also come with a sunroof and LED lights. Discounts and benefits in the range of Rs 65,000 are on offer on this Honda sedan. 

Disclaimer: Discounts vary from city to city. Please check with your local dealer for exact discounts, which may not match figures quoted here.

Also see:

New cars and SUVs launched in 2018

New car launches around the corner

from Autocar India https://ift.tt/2hpquNc

Review: 2018 Audi A6 review, test drive

What is it?

First it was the E-class in 2016, then the 5-series in 2017, and finally this year, it’s the A6 that has moved onto its next generation. The new car will most likely be the last Audi to be built using the MLB Evo platform, as the carmaker plans to adopt Porsche's MSB platform; however, that's still a big leap ahead.

The A6 is a massively important car for Audi. In India, however, the car moved away from the action in the last few years and the competition stole a march on it, thus the new A6 could not come a moment too soon. There’s still time for it to hit our shores, as older brother, the A8 is set to be launched first this year, with the A6 coming in, sometime next year.

More importantly, Audi will only bring in the standard wheelbase to India. Thanks to Mercedes launching the E-class in only long wheelbase form and BMW bringing in the 6 GT, a long wheelbase has become more of a norm in this segment. However, the long-wheelbase A6 is currently only in left-hand-drive configuration and Audi wants to present more of a balanced car and not one tilted in favour of any one type of consumer.

What’s it like on the outside?

Sticking with family styling cues is standard these days, and Audi is no exception. The new A6 looks pretty similar to the new A8 – this isn’t a complaint, but more a lament, something on the lines of 'oh, but why?' One look at the car though, and it’s easy to see that it comes across as a lot sharper, more muscular and lower slung compared to the older can; it’s really massively attractive.  

At the front, the hexagonal Audi grille is placed lower as are the signature Audi Matrix LED headlights that retain the stepped lower edge from the earlier car. Below that sit rather large air dams formed by very sharp and aggressive lines. The sides of the car have two neat crease lines, each originating from the front and rear fenders and ending on the doors. Wheel options are plenty and sizes go up to 21 inches; 20 inches was the largest offered on the earlier car. At the rear, the tail-lights are large horizontal units split across the fender and boot lid and has a neat chrome strip running between them. The bumper has two rectangular exhaust trims, but these aren’t exhaust outlets but just stylistic touches; the exhaust pipes are actually tucked away below. 

What’s it like on the inside?

Let’s begin with the rear. First thing to remember is that this isn’t a long wheelbase car. So how does it fare on space? Pretty good actually, you can’t of course stretch out like you would in an E, but there is plenty of leg room with even a taller person ahead. Headroom is great too, but the best bit for me was the seats themselves. The backrest felt perfectly contoured and the seat bench offered good support; it’s definitely a place you could spend long hours in. In terms of features, rear seat occupants get a two-zone climate control, making the A6's HVAC system a four- zone temperature unit, and the controls are all touch-enabled. You also get two USB ports and a power socket.

Behind the wheel there’s plenty on offer too, and as is pretty much the norm for every new VW Group luxury vehicle, the A6 gets the dual touchscreen panel. The top screen is for infotainment, while the lower one is for climate control and other functions. It works well and has haptic feedback too, but I would still say the physical buttons are better here, as with the touchscreen, you will have to take your eyes off the road to see what you're pressing.

The system has quite a few interesting bits like a customisable screen that uses drag and drop motions, akin to a smartphone, and more interactive voice commands, for instance, if you say you're feeling hot, the car will ask you to what temperature would you like to set the AC.

What’s it like to drive?

There are a few powertrain options available, and, notably, all engines will be mild-hybrids. There could also be a plug-in hybrid on offer later; a sign of the times! There is no word on what’s headed to India, but the 40 TDI diesel is a pretty safe bet. We drove this version, as well as the 55 TFSI 3.0-litre V6 petrol which may not come to our market.

The petrol unit puts out 340hp and 500Nm of torque, while the diesel makes a lower 204hp and 400Nm of torque. Both engines are mated to a seven-speed automatic gearbox. Coming to the diesel, the engine is powerful enough for everyday needs, but it isn’t for spirited driving, lacking some serious punch that you know the chassis can handle. Also, on the whole, the engine does feel a bit coarse and pushing it only further highlights this. With the petrol, refinement is something you would expect, and the 3.0 V6 does deliver. It’s very refined, the performance is also very sprightly, and there is a sense of urgency to it – a burst of power is never too far away.

As far as hybrid tech goes, the system here is a mild hybrid, meaning it only assists the engine in certain driving conditions; the electrics cannot propel the car solely. What it can do, however, is shut down the engine when the car is coasting down, and start it up automatically when needed.

As far as suspension setup goes, the petrol has air springs, while the diesel gets steel springs with adjustable dampers. In both cases, the ride was just right, with a good balance of handling and comfort. Given the standout feature of the current A6 in our market is the air suspension that’s standard on all cars, expect the same with the new A6 too. We'll have to wait to see just how comfortable this setup is on our roads.

The ride is soft but not to the point of being uncomfortable – the twisty mountain roads we were driving on didn’t induce a queasy feeling, even though I was seated at the back. The use of Dynamic mode, however, did tighten things up. Higher-spec versions of the A6 do get four-wheel steering which makes the car feel very agile for its size. However, India-spec versions may give this feature a miss. In standard form though, it is still quite agile enough. While we have not been fans of Audi’s steering feel, but the A6, like the new A8, has a great setup; it's nicely weighted and firm, and offers a decent level of feedback.

Should I buy one?

First of all, you aren’t going to be able to buy one anytime soon, as Audi will only bring the A6 to India next year, after the launch of the new A8. When the A6 does make it to our shores however, expect it to be a loaded car with bits like standard air springs, a four-zone climate control system, and, of course, like it or not, the dual touchscreen display.

On the engine front, the diesel engine isn’t the last word in refinement but it delivers the goods and should be fine for everyday motoring and with the mild- hybrid system, it should eke out just a wee bit more from every litre of your fuel. However, if the 3.0 V6 petrol does make it to India, it's certainly the one to go for if you like driving.

For the chauffeur-driven, there’s ample space at the back and the seats are very comfortable.

Thus, as it stands, the A6 is clearly not focused on one type of customer and it's a more rounded package. And if you split your time between the front seat and the rear, the A6 is a very credible option. 

from Autocar India https://ift.tt/2siJEaQ

Kia Grand Carnival: 5 things to know

Kia is quite serious about making an impact in the Indian market – so much so, that it showcased its intentions by making an all-new model for India, the SP Concept SUV, and displaying a large selection of its international line-up at the 2018 Auto Expo. The Korean carmaker’s facility in Andhra Pradesh is gearing up to roll-out cars from mid-2019. Along with a number of models likely to be introduced to India, Kia’s Grand Carnival MPV is one being considered. Here’s what you need to know about the MPV:

Bigger than the Innova Crysta

The Kia MPV is quite a bit bigger than India’s most popular MPV, the Toyota Innova Crysta. At 5,115mm long, 1,985mm wide and 1,755mm in height, the Grand Carnival is 380mm longer, 155mm wider, yet 40mm shorter in height than the Toyota. All this, along the 3,060mm long wheelbase (making it 310mm longer than the Innova Crysta), put it in a niche above the Toyota.

There’s no hiding that MPV-like design, especially from the rear and sides. It doesn’t look ungainly, though, especially with the larger, 19-inch alloy wheels. There are also smaller 17- and 18-inchers available. The highlight of the Grand Carnival's exterior is sliding rear doors – something that will be unique in this market segment.

Two engines internationally

Internationally, the MPV is sold with a 3.3-litre V6 petrol engine and a 2.2-litre, four-cylinder, diesel motor, both of which come mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The former puts out 270hp/318Nm, while the latter makes 200hp and 441Nm of peak torque. The diesel engine makes more sense for the Indian market.

There’s an 11-seat configuration on offer

Another USP of the Kia MPV is that along with the standard seven- and eight-seat configurations, the Grand Carnival is also offer with an 11-seat format. The brand claims that even the fourth row of seats gets 685mm of legroom, 902mm of headroom and 1,266mm hip room. The second row of seats also folds forward completely, making for easier ingress and egress for the third row of passengers. This type of flexibility could help sales – particularly in the tourist vehicle segment which is currently ruled by the Innova Crysta.

Loaded with equipment

While it isn’t known which features will make it to the India-spec model, the Grand Carnival is a well-kitted offering sporting features like steering-mounted audio controls, an audio system with Aux, USB input and Apple smartphone compatibility, cruise control, push-button start, a 7.0-inch colour instrument cluster, a 12-way, power adjustable driver’s seat with memory function, three-zone automatic climate control, multiple USB charging points, two sunroofs, a sensor-controlled tailgate, front and rear parking sensors and a reversing camera.

In terms of safety features, the MPV gets front and curtain airbags, rear cross-traffic alert, a blind-spot detection system, hill-start assist and ESC.

May be part of Kia’s five-model onslaught

Kia is currently evaluating the Grand Carnival for the Indian market. It could be one of the five launches that the Korean brand has planned for India in 18 months after the introduction of the production-spec SP concept, (which may be called the Trazor). Based on its size and expected equipment list, if the MPV arrives in India, expect it to cost a premium over the diesel trims of the Toyota Innova Crysta, which are priced between Rs 15.46 lakh and Rs 21.57 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).

from Autocar India https://ift.tt/2kwXguO

2020 Ssangyong Korando EV to be off-road capable

Ssangyong's first electric model will be a ‘proper 4x4’ that's ‘off-road capable’ when it arrives in 2020, according to the brand's UK boss, Nick Laird.

Arriving as part of the next-generation Korando SUV family, which will first launch in the UK in 2019 with conventional petrol and diesel versions, the electric variant will take inspiration from the e-SIV concept shown at the 2018 Geneva motor show.

Laird told Autocar that the EV will be ‘a huge step forward, even over the current model’. He said: "It sticks to the company’s roots and DNA of trying to be a proper SUV and crossover brand".

The e-SIV concept boasted an electric range of up to 450km courtesy of a 61.5kWh battery pack driving a 190hp electric motor. Another brand spokesman revealed that Ssangyong has been developing its electric technology with prototype EVs based on the Korando and Tivoli in South Korea.

Laird also said the manufacturer was exploring diesel-electric powertrains as an alternative to petrol-electric hybrids.

“I’m interested to see how diesel hybrid plays out,” he said. “I think there's a place for diesel hybrid; many of our vehicles are used for towing, and for that you need to have good torque. Diesel works very well for that kind of application, as do electric and hybrid.

“So, there’s an obvious fit for me for that to work well together. It will really depend upon the medium-term trajectory of what people think about diesel in the market. If it recovers a little from where it is today, I could well see it being a technology that’s really effective in achieving both economy and emissions. I do hope that the diesel market recovers; I think it deserves to.”

While Laird confirmed the technology as being ‘under development’, he had no comment on when, or even if, it would eventually be rolled out.

He also said that two new Ssangyong models - one based on the Tivoli’s platform and another on the Rexton’s - would be launched in the near future, although he did not hint at a timeframe for this.

from Autocar India https://ift.tt/2LGAahu

Three new models to lead Mahindra's UV market resurgence

Mahindra & Mahindra is confident of recouping market share in an increasingly competitive utility vehicle segment on the back of three new models such as the U321 MPV, a SsangYong Tivoli-based SUV (codenamed S201) and Mahindra's version of the SsangYong Rexton.

The homegrown carmaker sees the three models accounting for a 13 percent growth in overall volumes, according to Rajan Wadhera, president - Automotive Sector, M&M. In the 2018 fiscal, Mahindra sold 2,48,859 passenger vehicles, at an average of around 21,000 units per month.

Last year, Maruti dethroned Mahindra as the largest UV maker on the back of strong for the Brezza. Mahindra’s UV share dropped to 25.38 percent in FY2018, from 29.20 percent in FY2017 when it was a market leader. Meanwhile, Maruti’s share grew to 27.53 percent from 25.69 percent.

Referring to the increased competition in the segment, Wadhera admitted that "it is obviously a very difficult game" but added that the company is positive of "fighting it out".

Moreover, Mahindra believes both the U321 and the S201 are fresh models in its portfolio and therefore hold a larger potential of attracting more customers. "For us, both the models, U321 and S201 fill up the white spaces in our line-up and there won't be any cannibalization between them and any of our other models," Pawan Goenka, managing director, Mahindra & Mahindra said at the announcement of the company’s financial results for FY 2017-18.

Goenka sees vehicle sales in the automotive segment growing by 10 percent in the 2019 fiscal on the back of positive factors such as pick up in rural consumption and low retail inflation even as surging input costs continue to pose a challenge. He even sees sales of electric vehicles growing rapidly and Mahindra's EV manufacturing capacity being fully utilised due to rise in demand from consumers, fleet operators and also due to its EESL contract.

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Best affordable ABS-equipped motorcycles in India

ABS is a potentially life-saving safety feature, and one that is rather necessary in India, due to patchy roads and heavy monsoons. The good news is that we have seen an increasing number of smaller-capacity bikes equipped with ABS this year, due to the government’s mandate on making it compulsory on all two-wheelers above 125cc launched after April 1.

We bring you five of the most affordable ABS-equipped motorcycles available in the market:

5. Bajaj Pulsar NS200

Price - Rs 1,11,411
The only bike from Bajaj on the list is the Pulsar NS200. It is also the most powerful bike here – making 23.5hp from its 199.5cc liquid-cooled engine – and it manages this despite using a carburettor. However, unlike the cheaper TVS bikes further down the list, it only gets single-channel ABS. This means that the ABS prevents only the front wheel and not the rear from locking during braking. What it does have going for it is its perimeter frame, a feature that is exclusive to the NS200 in this group. Those looking for a more sporty Pulsar with better wind protection can also look at the fuel injected RS200 ABS, priced at Rs 1,37,491.

4. TVS Apache RTR 200 4V

Price - Rs 1,09,485 (ABS and Carburettor)
The RTR 200 gets dual-channel ABS (acting on both wheels) along with Rear Wheel Lift-Off Protection (RLP), meaning that the bike will not do a stoppie, no matter how hard you apply the front brake. The bike gets a slipper clutch as standard and Pirelli tyres as an option. It is also available in a fuel-injected (FI) version. The RTR 200’s 197.75cc engine is air- and oil-cooled, and puts out 20.5hp (Carburettor) and 21hp (FI), and 18.1Nm of torque. This quick motorcycle, while being safe, is also great value for money.

3. TVS Apache RTR 180

Price - Rs 93,497
The Apache RTR 180 is the cheapest motorcycle in India to get dual-channel ABS and RLP. The Apache gets a 177.4cc engine, putting out 16.62hp and 15.5Nm of torque. While it is the most affordable dual-channel motorcycle here, it does feel dated in this company, with dual shock absorbers at the rear (compared to the monoshocks on all other bikes on this list), and a relatively basic instrument cluster.

2. Honda CB Hornet 160R

Price - Rs 90,734
The CB Hornet is a somewhat sporty commuter bike that sits a segment below the earlier motorcycles on this list. And unlike the TVS bikes, the Hornet comes only with single-channel ABS (front only). It offers a comfortable, upright riding position, and a large seat. The Hornet puts out 15.7hp and 14.5Nm of torque from its 162.7cc engine – adequate numbers for this class of motorcycle.

1. Suzuki Gixxer

Price - Rs 87,250
We had recently brought you exclusive pictures of the Suzuki Gixxer ABS, before it was launched yesterday at Rs 87,250. This makes it the cheapest ABS equipped motorcycle in the country. However, like the Hornet and the NS, the Gixxer only gets single-channel ABS. It features a slightly more sporty riding position than the Hornet, and handles sharply. The 155cc motor in the Gixxer puts out 14.8hp and 14Nm of torque – slightly less than the Hornet’s numbers, but power delivery is peppy.

(All prices are ex-showroom, Delhi)

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Sponsored feature: Twice as intelligent

At Nissan, a car is more than just a means of travelling from A to B in the most comfortable and efficient way. Nissan sees the car as a part of an integrated network where you’re the central hub, and the brand’s job is to keep you connected and in control. That’s why Nissan has developed the Nissan Intelligent Mobility initiative.

Thousands of Nissan customers across India have got their first taste of Nissan Intelligent Mobility through the NissanConnect app. Once you download the NissanConnect app on your smartphone, you plug into a whole new universe of service and connectivity. How does it work? A factory-fitted Telematics Control Unit (TCU) in your Nissan car is connected to a secure server to keep you connected and in control of your car, thus keeping it safe and secure, while making things more convenient for you. All you have to do is download the app from your app store (available across all platforms), contact your dealer to activate it, and then just customise it to your personal requirement. NissanConnect has over 50 features to keep you connected. This service is completely free for the first three years for Nissan customers purchasing new Nissan cars. This technology is available on select variants of Sunny, Micra and Terrano.

FIND OUT HOW FAR THE NEAREST ASSISTANCE IS

 

PIT STOP: Running low on fuel, and don’t know where the nearest petrol pump is? Want to find the nearest workshop for quick change of engine oil and get the air filter cleaned? Need to find the nearest Nissan dealership? Wherever you are in the country, you will find everything you want at your fingertips with NissanConnect. With the app on your phone, you are never far away from assistance when you need it.

SERVICE AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

SERVICE BOOKING: Time to send your Nissan to the workshop for its regular scheduled service? Whip out your phone, open the NissanConnect app, and book your car for service in just a few short and easy taps. The app will also remind you when the car is due for servicing and keep a track of past invoices and expenses. These are just some of the many features of the NissanConnect app to make your life easier.

GET THE BEST OF NISSAN

NISSAN EVENT NOTIFY: Nissan runs many experiences, events and promotions for its customers across India.It could be a service camp,or an invitation to join a driving expedition, or an exclusive promotion for Nissan customers. With the NissanConnect app you can be sure that you are the first to receive the latest Nissan news and information that may be of interest to you. Don’t ever miss out again.

Other Smart Features:

My Car Information: Get to know essential information about your car.

Car Calendar: Keep track of your upcoming car appointments.

Service History: Lookup your history of car service invoices for tracking expenses.

Nearby Location: Informs you of all nearby locations of relevance.

Speed Alert: Alerts you when your car is speeding beyond a set speed limit.

Locate My Car: Locate your car even when you are not with your car.

Geofencing: Alerts you when your vehicle moves out of a set boundary area.

from Autocar India https://ift.tt/2shnOUe

Sponsored feature: Toyota Off-Road Camp 2018

DRAMA BY THE LAKE

Hussain Sagar, a popular and historical tourist destination, witnessed a rather special event between April 28 and May 6, 2018. The People’s Plaza, located on the shores of this heart-shaped lake, was home to the latest edition of the Toyota Off-Road Camp. 855 enthusiastic participants waited patiently for their turn behind the wheel of the capable Toyota Fortuner. Their task? To push the Toyota Fortuner and their driving capabilities to the limit. With obstacles like an off-camber lean, rocky bed, deep ditch, articulation challenge, positive and negative side inclines, chicken holes, big mound, rumblers, mud articulation, water wading, slush pit and gravel pit, each participant faced a daunting task – but a partner like the Toyota Fortuner made each challenge a walk in the park.

4X4 PLAY

Each obstacle set-up in the course was designed to test the Toyota Fortuner’s ability to handle extreme situations. The off-camber lean looked and felt scary, but the Fortuner‘s rigid structure and great balance made it seem easy. Downhill Assist Control (DAC) which allows the Toyota Fortuner to make a controlled descent without applying brakes manually made the deep ditch very easy. The big mound showed-off the Fortuner’s impressive power, torque and grip during the ascent. The Hill-Assist Control (HAC) lets the car move forward in a controlled manner without the need to move quickly between the accelerator and the brake. The thrilling side incline showed how stable and safe the Fortuner is, even when tipped at an incredible angle. Chicken holes and rumblers allowed the Toyota Fortuner to show off its stability, ride quality and control over uneven surfaces. The articulation obstacle let the Fortuner use its impressive Sigma 4 system that features Active Traction Control (A-TRC) and offers Limited Slip Differential (LSD) performance along with a number of other advanced features. Water wading was a cinch thanks to the Fortuner’s impressive 700mm wading depth. The mud articulation, slush pit and gravel pit let the Toyota Fortuner’s traction control shine on surfaces where other cars would easily lose composure.

BUILDING ITS FORTUNE

Despite being around since 2009, the Toyota Fortuner as a brand, just like the SUV, seems indestructible. When it was launched, its rugged looks, Toyota’s legacy of reliability, powerful engine and impressive ground clearance helped it roll out of the showrooms in large numbers. Since then it has only gone from one strength to another. In a country that is crazy about SUVs, the Toyota Fortuner has remained the vehicle of choice for everyone looking for an upgrade.

ACCELERATE INTO ADVENTURE

Five shiny, new Toyota Fortuners were on call for all the mucking during the Toyota Off-Road Camp. Subscribers of Autocar India, and potential and existing Toyota customers turned up with friends to experience the thrill of off-road driving and capabilities of the Toyota Fortuner firsthand. We spoke to a few of them and this is what they had to say.

Medha Joseph

I run a road-trip company and was really looking forward to this off-road experience. The demo given was excellent and it helped me understand how to navigate through this track. I do a little bit of off-roading when I travel but I have not been part of an event like this. The uphill (big mound) and the slush were very enjoyable. There were no nervous moments but plenty of exciting ones. The Fortuner is a brilliant vehicle, so it handled the track very well. You can just sit in the car and roll. The Fortuner handled everything very well. It’s a brilliant vehicle. The 30-degree side incline is challenging but in the automatic Fortuner, it’s very easy. We used the hill-assist, the DAC, in first gear and that made the big mound easy. It was brilliant, the car was absolutely in control and you don’t press the accelerator or the brake, you just leave it to the vehicle to decide and it takes you down smoothly. From the first Fortuner to the new Fortuner, there is immense improvement. They have done phenomenally brilliant work on the handling and comfort level. I didn’t expect it to be so smooth. I love Toyota cars. They’re the best.

Ramarao

I’m a hardcore off-road driver. I participate in a lot of 4x4 events conducted in and around Hyderabad. I would give this experience a rating of five on five. I’m surprised. The guys here guided me well. The big mound was the best part. That was a little scary but the guide made it easy. I thought the water would come in at the water pit, but not a drop of water came in. It was excellent over the chicken holes and rumblers. I never expected such a performance. The Fortuner did very well. It’s quite tough. It takes the worst with ease. I thought it would manage but not so easily. I have recommended the Toyota brand to many people and am further impressed now and will definitely recommend it to many more people. The Fortuner is very rugged and luxurious at the same time.

Chandni

I heard about the boot camp through a friend. The experience was very good. Everybody was very helpful and knew what they were doing; everything was very well-organised. I loved the big mound. It was a little scary but exciting. I also liked the first off-camber mud pit. It was scary but interesting. I think there were quite a few scary moments. But the Fortuner took good care of them. I felt very comfortable with the car. The water pit wasn’t scary. But the Fortuner taught me how to drive through deep water. I think the suspension was really good because I didn’t feel a thing. The drive was very smooth. It was really strong and the grip was good.

Abdul Bassad

My experience was breathtaking. This is my first time off-roading. I really enjoyed the big mound. I don’t have words to describe it. While going up, hill-hold was the feature that helped and while coming back down Downhill Assist Control (DAC) was there. I had complete trust in the Fortuner. Toyota means reliability. In my family we’ve always owned Toyotas. Every time I see a Toyota, I feel it can out-live its owner.

Gaurav Gupta

Toyota as a brand has amazing resale value. Though once you own a Toyota, you wouldn’t want to sell it. What I really like about the Fortuner is that it looks really heavy and bulky; but when you drive it, it’s smoother than any other vehicle. You can take quick, short turns, you can take it up- and down-hill, and we did the water pit too; at no point did it feel like we were driving something big. It’s so amazing. I had a terrifically awesome experience.

from Autocar India https://ift.tt/2IT4KXp

Tension Between Indian Consulate, Cops Over Canada Blast: Report

There are signs of tension between the Indian Consulate General in Toronto and the regional police over a hotline set up by the diplomatic mission after the explosion at a restaurant in this heavily...

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"Blame The Devil": At 114, He Thinks It's Time To Quit Smoking

Earlier this month, Fredie Blom, who is believed to be the oldest man alive, celebrated his 114th birthday at his home in Delft, a township outside Cape Town, South Africa.

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