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Gang of Ferraris We go amidst 809 Ferraris and live to tell the tale

Ducati Multistrada 1200 S It’s got more purposes than it has wheels Fortuner vs Endeavour India’s best full-blown SUVs in battle

and n o ti la u ic rt a l e e h w s, e h Ditc tica xo e n lia a It in g in sh a b e dun (Who’d have thought?)

VOLUME 12 ISSUE 4

AMG E63 S Now, with Drift mode. Expect no mercy

e d ’ s l e t t e r

Issue 137 JANUARY 2017

Welcome So, for the last month, we’ve been talking about just one thing – demonitisation. Frankly, I didn’t know such a word even existed. The next topic of discussion with any of our professional ilk is – will it affect the industry? It will be naive to think it won’t. The phenomenon has affected everyone and the automobile industry is no different. From the way it operates – be it manufacturing and supply of components – to the way buying sentiment changes, demonitisation will have an impact. If you’ve been privy to sales data from November, there has been a significant drop for practically every manufacturer. Typically, after Diwali, year-end sales are dull but this time, the drop has been noticeably lower. The full brunt of this will become evident when December sales are ed. But, we foresee this to be a temporary setback. Manufacturers who are financially stronger will tide over this easily but those for whom a few hundred cars and bikes every month is crucial for survival, will have to gear up for a tough few months as the bigger fish will go on an all-out onslaught to make up for this deficit. Luxury and imported cars and bikes will be the most affected. Not that people had been using hard cash to buy them but definitely, many had ‘cash reserves’ which now may not exist for them to spend. It doesn’t help that regulations keep changing every day, confusing prospective owners even more. On the positive side, as a luxury car maker pointed out, a purchase for them usually takes six months to convert, so they have some time to see how much this affects them and accordingly, take corrective measures. But it would be a good idea to try harder and attract buyers to showrooms. And nothing attracts attention better than a new launch. Our cover car this month is a milestone model for Maserati, which has been trying to get a foothold in the Indian luxury space. Levante is the carmaker’s first SUV and could just be its big-ticket vehicle for India. We love SUVs but more importantly, these have a better chance of doing well simply because they are more suited to our kind of conditions and driving. How good is it? Find out inside. In the tried-and-tested genre, we have a BMW 5-series. A recent independent survey has put the Munich marque as the most desirable of the big three Germans. The 5 is an important ingredient of its Indian serving – the meat, if you will, as it slots right in the area of status, performance and practicality. The seventh-gen car had a bit of catching up to do though, after its nondescript immediate predecessor. The new car makes up considerable ground. There’s more in this issue. Don’t miss all the contests – exclusive riding Tee, a free driving holiday to be won – and the free 2017 planner. And thanks, if you parted with your valuable change to pick up this issue. Maybe this is a good time to subscribe. Turn to page 70 for our new super offer. Nevertheless, enjoy the issue.

Girish Karkera cH I eF cO M M U N IT y O FFI cer & eD ITO r

Twitter@karkeragirish

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“Maserati is trying to get a foothold in India. Levante is its first SUV and just the kind of big-ticket vehicle needed”

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Contents

062

Features 056 maserati Levante Like dune bashing but luxurious comfort too? The Italians have you covered with this new exotic beast

062 BmW 5-series

068 Frank Schloeder We have a heart-to-heart with BmW India’s acting president. He lets us in on the carmaker’s plans for India

078

What does this Bimmer limousine have to offer in this new-gen avatar? Improvement. Tonnes and tonnes of it

072 VW Polo GTI you may have to look really closely to tell this is no ordinary Polo. But all doubts are dispelled once behind the wheel

078 Ducati Multistrada 1200S It’s supposed to be equally good in the city, highway or off-road. Do we have a new all-rounder to conquer them all?

Get 12 issues for the price of 6 Subscribe now on http://mags.timesgroup.com/magazines/tghp.html use code TGAD at checkout. Postage charges extra.

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Contents

029 Drives

Intake

Pit

Driven this month...

029 Ferrari’s world

085 Formu1a 1

010 mercedes E63 AMG 015 Jeep Grand Cherokee 016 Volco XC90 T8 018 Ducati XDiavel S 020 Skoda Rapid 022 Harley Davidson Street Glide & Roadster 024 Ford Endeavour vs Toyota Fortuner 026 mV Augusta F3 800

a record attempt at most number of Prancing Ponies in one place? yummy

034 Ford experience We take bunch of Fords to lands that’re more than slightly off the beaten path

036 Jaguar I-Pace now, Jag tries its hand at electric power. and the result looks promising

040 Icons of the road Srini drives the grandfather of British offroad vehicles – the Land rover Series 1

046 Sherco-TVS road to Dakar Here’s how India’s hopeful is prepping to conquer the world’s toughest rally

The season’s final race is always exciting. But no one knew how wild it would get

087 Nico Hulkenberg The Force India driver is moving on to a new team. Here’s why

090 moto GP It’s been an exciting 2016. But as soon as it ended, 2017 prep started in earnest

092 Wrc VW bids a jubilant farewell. Plus, the 2017 race schedule has been changed

098 WEc audi wins final race before exit while Porche bags championship TOPGEar.cOm

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TM

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Here’s what our readers had to say about the last issue... Jawa pg 54 Ing nEw thE InCom tion India publica a pEEk at A Times of 2016 EXCLUSIVE dECEMbER `150 Only

Dear TopGear,

I am an avid car fan and try to stay updated on most of the cars in India. Having said that, I have ia l not been a good reader Spec of automotive magazines. Today, while waiting at the er rtuN New fo Fiat service center, LeTTeR I got my hands e oF Th ntomTh o m on the December ley 1200 Cus Har vs r ati Scramble neville vs Duc Triumph Bon 2016 issue of TopGear with the catchy all-new Toyota Fortuner on its cover. Going through the Fortuner review was more than just reading it. The article felt more like a blog and I could feel myself sitting inside the car while reading it. What was more exciting was that the location was Kerala. The photographs were scintillating and are worth collecting. Such was the clarity, aesthetics and subject orientation. I was also glad to see the first look of the Tata Hexa and was extremely impressed with the phrase you used “fighting perception more than its struggle against competition”. The sentence was so powerful that it conveyed an entire lifecycle of an automobile company. Here’s wishing all the best for the Hexa. Finally, there was the car I started loving first as a child – the Morris. VOLUME 12

ISSUE 3

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Win A drivin

SUV

g holiday pg 152

cson dai Tu ng for? Hyunyou’ve been waiti

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writing in to TopGear just got rewarding. Send us your thoughts on this issue and you can win an awesome riding tee courtesy 1356clothing.com

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It was delightful to glance through the history of one of the most celebrated cars ever. It was really good to know who the dealers were and the price at which it was sold (`5200 – how I wish we got cars at that cost these days). Thank you for the wonderful effort you folks are putting in to bring to the market a real masterpiece. Looking forward to the grand 2017 edition. Are you guys thinking about a facelift in 2017? May be that’s something that you could do to surprise your readers and fans in 2017. Arunjith Unnikrishnan

Team TopGear,

I have a great fascination for cars and there’s no magazine better to see it in than TopGear. The photographs you print are so good that sometimes, I feel like stealing the car from you and driving to that place. In your December 2016 issue, I enjoyed the Jeep Wrangler story and was mesmerised by the

What’ s ne W o n TopgeaR.Com

Skoda Kodiaq first drive http://tinyurl.com/zul68b9

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photographs throughout the issue. Hats off to all your photographers! But I didn’t feel as excited as I generally do when reading your issues. There weren’t those hungry and ruthless cars that make you pinch yourself, asking if it was real. The Audi R8 should have been the cover photograph for this issue. I was also saddened when I couldn’t find the uncle TG and the watch report. Also, from January, it would be great if you could print posters with every issue of TopGear. Lakshya Chettri

a n d w e h av e a w I n n e R!

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Drives EDITED BY Agasti Kaulgi

w Every ne car thast, matter r rated o slated CONTENTS

Jeep Grand Cherokee p15

Volvo XC90 T8 p16

Ducati XDiavel S p18

Skoda Rapid p20

MV Agusta F3 p26

MercedesAMG E63 S 1.8 crore(est., ex-showroom)

we say: switchable 4wd to rwd makes this a haymaker Ollie Marriage

udge the Dynamic Select controller into Race mode, toggle manual gears, turn stability control off, pull both paddles, confirm with the right. You have just discovered Drift mode and turned your 4WD Mercedes-Benz E63S into a rear-wheel-drive skid hero. A proper rear-driver, not the artifice of the Ford Focus RS’s system feeding extra power to the back axle, but a car that’s now sending 604bhp and 850Nm of torque through the rear wheels alone. With no traction control. It’s irrelevant, of course. Well, unless you’re trying to fill pages of a magazine with smokin’ pictures or trying to look like a drift hero. Otherwise the potential for embarrassment and a massive repair bill coming hot on the heels of a “Watch this…” as you approach a roundabout with three mates in the car is colossal. Keep it to bragging rights, people. It may be irrelevant, but it’s also important, which may sound illogical, but bear with me. As far as I can work out no

N

one else has ever built a fully switchable 4WD to RWD road car, so that’s a first. It also gives the E63S the broadest plateau of ability, at once nullifying old criticisms about AMGs not being able to get their power down, while at the same time keeping enthusiasts’ hopes alive. And think of the competition. This is a slap down to Audi’s RS6 and BMW’s M5, a statement car from MercedesBenz that’s stolen a lead not just on its domestic rivals, but everyone. Provided that the system is good, of course. We’ll come back to that. Tobias Moers, head of AMG, believes that the new E63 models “represent the biggest step forward we’ve ever taken from one generation to the next”. Models, note, not model. There are two: the E63 and an uprated E63S (the car I’m driving here). On the S, you don’t just get an additional 41bhp and 100Nm, but bigger brakes – 390mm front discs instead of 360mm (although both can be had with 402mm carbon-ceramics instead), a Track Pace app, dynamic engine mounts and an electronically controlled

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January I 2017

photography: simon thompson

‘I’mchasingracinglegendBernd SchneideraroundPortimão’ torque-vectoring rear diff instead of a mechanical locker. The S is also the only one with Drift mode. People might not use it, but I bet that’s a deal-clincher. Axel Seilkopf, the head of engine development for the new E63, is showing me around the car, telling me what has been changed. There’s a lot, and much of it is down to the fact the product team demanded it should develop 850Nm. The nine-speed multi-clutch gearbox had never been called on to cope with more than 700Nm before, the centre differential, the pistons, turbos, brakes, all are new or uprated, and each time Axel points at something and says, “We had to change it because of 850Nm”.

So no, the 4.0-litre twin-turbo engine isn’t lifted straight from a lesser 63 and given a software tweak. Instead there are new, lighter pistons, air intakes, a charge air cooling system, cylinder shut-off and, most importantly, a pair of twin-scroll turbos. Twin-scroll means that instead of exhaust gases from all four cylinders on each bank being fed through one pipe into the turbo, they come in through two. This smooths out the air pulses and improves response and torque at low revs. Power then arrives at the gearbox. It’s the first time AMG has used this transmission. The internals had to be heavily revised. New materials, and a wet clutch for first gear to enable repeated

OR TRY THIS

BMWM5 More cosseting and relaxed than the E63 but not as exciting

The Merc loves Portimão somuchthatit’slefta permanent reminder

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full-house launches without overheating – the oil keeping the temperatures down. This then feeds into the centre clutch pack. From here, driveshafts run forwards down the right flank of the engine and backwards to the rear differential. It’s a compact housing, yet it’s able to send all the torque – 850Nm, don’t forget – to either axle. So here I am, driving around Portimão racetrack, chasing racing legend Bernd Schneider, who’s piloting an AMG GT S. I can’t take as much speed into corners as he can. The E63 weighs 1,880kg, which is commendably only 35kg more than the outgoing rear-drive car, but it’s still a weight, and despite the front driveshaft running through the engine’s sump pan, the centre of gravity is higher. The carbon ceramics aren’t fading, though – the 265/35 ZR20 front tyres (295/30 on the rear) are resisting understeer irably, and the steering feels faithful. Not a great deal of feel, but the variable ratio set-up (which I normally hate) isn’t offending me. The front end is positive and direct enough that you always know where you are with the grip available. But the good stuff happens after the apex. Because then you’re feeding torque

UP CLOSE

Dashisconfigurable.Canalsohaveseparate dialsforspeedandrev-counter

Turbos are mounted in the vee, improving packaging and heat management

Lovely wheels hide carbon-ceramic brake discs.Performanceistotallyepic

to all four wheels. And it feels magic. Partially, this is down to the engine, which sounds majestic and delivers rampant thrust, but it’s what the chassis does with this power that’s key to this new E63. An Audi RS6 will push wide into messy understeer, but not the E63. Here it’s more rear-biased, so when you get back on the power (minimal turbo lag unless you’re below 3,000rpm), a pulse of torque seems to go to the back axle, tightening the trajectory and neutralising the car’s stance, then the power is fed forward, maintaining your chosen line, all four wheels working hard, pulling in the same direction. Of course, this all happens in the blink of an eye and feels smooth and seamless and natural, but the more laps I did, the more impressed I was. It’s not only fast and effective, but really involving and entertaining. Get on the power too hard, too early and you’ll probably exit with a theatrical flourish of opposite lock. Not much, but enough to feel lightly heroic. Even with the traction off, you’d be hard pushed to spin it. But not if you choose to disconnect the front driveshafts. “Because of 850Nm” now has an almost

instantaneous effect. A good prod in a hairpin will snap the back end out of line and beyond the point of no return in an instant. But at higher speeds, it’s immensely controllable and a vast amount of fun. An E63 isn’t really a track car and proved it by not changing direction as well as the GT S. So, the next morning sees us over on the N2. It’s a fantastic road, endlessly twisting and turning, occasionally punctuated by short, squirty third- and fourth-gear straights. It’s more impressive here than it was on track. I expected it to feel big and slightly wayward, but instead, it’s neat and very, very effective. Again, the 4WD system

makes the whole car feel so natural in its movements, and so athletic. Body control is excellent and that engine… I had my doubts about it because I wasn’t sure at what point the 4.0-litre unit, given more weight to shift, might start to feel out of its depth compared with the old 5.5-litre twin-turbo. I thought lag might be an issue, that low-down torque might suffer. Not a chance. This motor is core to Merc’s future – they’ve invested hugely in its ongoing development, and the result is a red-blooded belter of a V8. It’s absolutely rampant through the mid-range, cannons into the 7,000rpm limiter if you’re tardy with your paddle-pulling and makes

Ararepatchofstraight roadontheN2.It’stime toreachforfourth...

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noises that will delight your ears. Even by top-line super-sedan standards, this thing is truly, madly, deeply rapid. Both steering and brakes lack real, actual feel, but the response you get to your inputs is always positive and reassuring, so you develop confidence that way. I was more impressed by the gearbox – I’ve never been a massive fan of Merc’s MCT transmission, but AMG has clearly given it a thorough overhaul. The shifts are crisp and immediate and carry enough sense of occasion as they

Transmission has had a serious upgrade – shiftsarenowcrisp

punctuate each lunge of acceleration to make it feel interactive. With the engine roaring, the chassis digging deep, the E63 is shot through with a sense of urgency and potency that’s very compelling. It’s a deeply exciting car to drive. Way more than an M5 or RS6. Reservations? I do wonder if you might find yourself hanging on to it a bit on a bucking B-road, and I am surprised by how aggressive it feels. Where the BMW M5 feels plush and comfortable and you sink into thick seats, the Mercedes is more ‘at you’. The chairs are firm and relatively thinly padded. The ride is taut – there’s a fair bit of tyre roar. But a more padded seat is available and you could happily drive it on a daily commute – the powertrain is vice-free and you’d quickly get used to the road noise. And the cabin is beautiful. The quality of the carbon work is exceptional, the driving position is ace and there’s

more equipment than you’ll ever figure out how to use. It feels expensive. Still not sure about the twin-screen set-up and controlling it via thumb pads on the steering wheel – it’s a bit of a faff, and that’s not really what the E63 is about. And the Driver Assist systems? They feel utterly out of place here. A semiautonomous E63? No thanks, I’m happier driving this one myself.

SPECIFICATION 3982cc twin-turbo V8, 4WD, 604bhp, 850nm 0–100kph in 3.4secs, 250kph 1,880kg

VeRDICT: The most super super-sedan ever. New 4WD E63 is fast, clever and exciting. The class goalposts have shifted.

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10

‘The E63 is shot through withasenseofurgency’

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Jeep Grand Cherokee 3.6 V6 wE say: A fAirly quick petrol motor option in cAse the nGt decides to bAn diesel AGAin suddenly Debabrata Sarkar

fter the initial flurry from Jeep, the American carmaker has now decided to offer, like most other SUV makers, a petrol version of the Grand Cherokee. This is largely to cover their bases, in case legislation prohibits the sale of large diesel motors again. You may argue that the SRT is already on sale, but let’s face it, some people would want a smaller, slightly more efficient option to live with everyday. The answer is a 3.6-litre V6, which makes 295 horses and 353Nm of torque. More importantly, it is mated to an eight-speed auto transmission, which works very well and delivers power seamlessly.

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If you like music on the move, you’re going to love Jeep’s UConnect

Very handy indeed in the chaos that is traffic in LA. Google ‘Thanksgiving LA traffic’ and you will see an incredibly colourful example of what can happen. However, it also meant that on our way out to the freeway, we came across a series of intersections – plenty of bursts between traffic signals. Hit the ‘sport’ button from the array of switches, it even includes a start/ stop functionality, and shift points are revised for an extra bit of poke. The Grand Cherokee lurches forward off the line and gathers pace at an impressive rate. The dash to 100kph should roughly take eight seconds, not that there was any scope to get anywhere close to those speeds in town. Not bad though, for a car that weighs 2250kg, roughly 200 less than the diesel version currently available. Out on the freeway though, the Grand Cherokee comes into its own. The massive proportions don’t matter and settling into a cruise is second nature to it. The pliant suspension soaks up most undulations. While this is good at lower speeds, corners at highway speeds are met with a fair bit of body roll. On the move, keeping up with California traffic is a breeze even if you leave the transmission to do its own thing. Of course, if you need quicker responses, taps on the ‘minus’ steering mounted paddle gets you right back in the power band as the revs climb to about 4000rpm and a muted snarl escapes the tailpipes. Unfortunately, we didn’t have an opportunity to try the petrol Grand Cherokee on an off-road trail, but with the four-mode equipped four-wheel-

Plenty of gizmos inside. And that’s apart from the off-road hardware

drive system, this Jeep will surely keep up tradition and tackle most trails. There is also height adjustment and a low-range gearbox that can be called upon for good measure. Apart from the off-road gizmos, the interiors also remain the same with a large touchscreen taking up all attention at the centre of the dashboard, with UConnect proving to be an easy sync with your Bluetooth enabled phone. However, while the petrol motor for a SUV this size will always be a second option, it is likely to cost a fair chunk less (roughly ten lakh) than the diesel one on offer, which currently retails at `97.85 lakh (ex-showroom Mumbai).

PhotograPhy: mAnufACturer

85 lakh (est., ex-showroom)

SPECIFICATION 3604cc, V6, petrol, 295bhp, 353Nm, 8a, 4WD 93 litres 2247kg 218mm – 264mm (raised)

VERDICT: A GC in case the green brigade comes knocking. Quick, sounds good, heavy at fuel stops

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Volvo XC90 T8 Excellence 1.25 crore (ex-showroom, Delhi) we say: VolVo’s flagship is now armed with hybrid tech. but does hybrid mean boring?

photography: Parag Parelkar

Agasti Kaulgi

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f you thought about hybrid or electric cars a few years back, you’d probably imagine a city hatchback or a futuristic concept. Not anymore. After hybrid tech has made its way into almost every other segment – including sports- and supercars – it’s high time a carmaker put the tech in a brawny SUV. Welcome the new Volvo XC90 T8. And interestingly, there’s a suffix after the car name: Twin Engine. That means it has a petrol motor that works in conjunction with an electric motor and a massive battery. Volvo claims the petrol-electric hybrid in the T8 is the most sophisticated in the world and doesn’t work like ‘conventional’ hybrids. Allow me to explain. The T8’s petrol motor powers the front wheels and the electric motor powers the rear wheels. There’s also a crankshaft-mounted starter generator that sits between the engine and the gearbox and does three crucial things: the 45bhp starter motor allows the

Badging is among the few clues that point to this variant’s eco-friendly nature

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car to go from pure electric drive to combination combustion drive seamlessly, so you can experience the car’s petrol engine and electric motor as one unit. It is also a powerful electric generator that converts power from the petrol engine into electricity; and finally, it pools in power from the petrol motor and the electric one simultaneously to seamlessly offer all the 400bhp and 640Nm when you need it. The large, rear axle-mounted electric motor generates 83bhp and 240Nm of torque. You could drive the T8 in full electric mode, without burning a drop of fuel for up to 40km. Of course, you’d need to plug in the car for a few hours before you do and when it’s running on pure electric power, you’d not have an AWD system; it’ll strictly be a RWD. The Pure (all electric) mode is meant for daily commutes that don’t involve high-speed driving. And for days you

January I 2017

OR TRY THIS Hand-made glass crystal to help you change cogs. Fancy, no?

Error 404 There’s no hybrid SUV that’s on sale in India which can rival the XC90 T8

need to really show the T8 some beans, all you do is flick the knob on the centre console to AWD or Performance mode which takes all the power from the petrol engine and the electric motor, and sends it to all four wheels. When in Normal mode, if you let the car decide the source of power, it’ll emit less carbon dioxide than a city hatch. And if you speak about fuel efficiency, Volvo claims it’ll do 10kpl in city traffic and 11.5kpl when you’re out on the highway. The petrol motor is a four-pot, 2.0-litre turbo and supercharged unit which generates 313bhp and 400Nm. It’s really refined and can barely be heard in the cabin, and is mated to an eight-speed auto transmission. This engine block is the same one that sits under the hood of the V40 Polestar. The XC90 is one of the most luxurious SUVs ever made. And the T8 Excellence takes that concept ahead. The gearknob and bottle holders at the back are made of hand-crafted glass crystal. The quality of materials used is top notch and it’s next to impossible to

As luxurious as it is inside, there are plenty of stylish cues on the outside too

find a fault with the craftsmanship. The XC90 T8 available in India is a strict four seater and the centre of the rear seat has a fridge, glass holders and cubby holes. The cabin is well insulated from ambient and engine noise and there’s even a glass behind the rear seats to further isolate the cabin from noise. The XC90 has never been the sharpest handler in the SUV category and the T8 is no different. And with all the hybrid tech and battery that sits in the propeller shaft tunnel, it adds 250kg to the 2-tonne kerb weight of the XC90. Although engineers have tried to keep the CG low, there’s still quite a lot of body roll. The steering is light and not the most precise. But the T8 throws up numbers that can give a tough fight even to performance SUVs. It’ll do 0-100kph in 5.6 seconds, on a full charge. The XC90 is extremely good in of ride quality and levels of luxury the cabin offers and it comes with every toy that’s available in the automobile space. It brings fuel efficiency, low emissions, luxury and ample briskness to the party.

And when Volvo is offering all of that, coupled with classy styling and cuttingedge tech, it’s going to ask for a big amount from you. That big amount reads as `1.25 crore (ex-Delhi). With the T8 Excellence, Volvo has rubbished the fact that you need a massive V8 to make a quick SUV. Its puny 2.0-litre petrol engine offers a brisk drive on the expressway, while being polite to polar bears at the same time. Win-win, right?

SPECIFICATION 1999cc, turbo and supercharged, 4cyl, petrol, 313bhp, 400Nm, 8A, Electric motor: Li-ion battery, 83bhp, 240Nm 0-100kph: 5.6s, 250kph, 11kpl (claimed) Kerb weight: 2290kg

VeRDICT: extremely luxurious cabin, easy on emissions and still pretty quick on the road

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January I 2017 156 ponies on a 247kg machine. I’ll let you work out the math

Ducati XDiavel S 18.47 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) we say: it may seem like a cruiser, but not quite as you know it.

photography: Manufacturer

Christopher Chaves

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ike the standard XDiavel, the XDiavel S is an all-new motorcycle. It’s so new that all the pair carries forward from the Diavel is the name and the rear tyre. Apart from that, the s, engine and chassis are all new. The XDiavel S stands out; while the standard bike is easily one of the best looking motorcycles in the world, and the S version takes it one notch higher. It looks like a drag bike, given that it’s really long and sits low too. The XDiavel S is what Ducati is labelling its first cruiser. Why so? Because it’s belt driven – a first for Ducati – and has wide bars and forward-set footrests. Other cruiser credentials include the glossy black paint shade of the engine with aluminium detailing, the brushed aluminium swingarm that holds the chunky, blingy rear wheel, and the slash-cut twin exhaust pipes on the side. There’s even a distinctive DRL loop around the LED head unit which distinguishes the XDiavel S from the standard motorcycle. But it’s the diamond-cut rear

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wheel that does it for me on this bike. The XDiavel S is like the motorcycle equivalent of a skimpily dressed Deepika Padukone – it’s just so hard to take your eyes off her. Ducati has given the S a healthy list of features like ABS, traction control, cornering ABS from the Multistrada (the Bosch-powered system that lets you brake hard up to the apex of a corner at full lean and miraculously stops you from crashing), keyless ignition, cruise control and much more that makes it one of the safest motorcycles out there. More importantly, the XDiavel S is nothing short of a beast when it comes to performance. The Testastretta DVT 1262cc engine is a redesigned version of the 1198cc unit on the Multistrada 1200 with increased bore and stroke. Power figures are 156bhp, which is around 6bhp down on the standard motorcycle, but with 129Nm of twist, torque having substantially increased between 3,500 and 5,000rpm. There’s a huge wave of torque to ride on this Ducati. It accelerates with superbike-

like ferocity, 0-100kph despatched in 4.18s, the bike feels more like a dragster than cruiser. Had the road surface been a little grippier, the bike would have been quicker. The rate at which the motorcycle propels you to ridiculous speeds is phenomenal. The XDiavel S comes with a launch control system that has three settings that regulate the way the electronic aids kick in on take-off. In any of these modes, the front wheel always needs the electronics to stay from reaching for the sky in first and second. Simply launching the bike off the line and hearing all the electronic aids kick in, all while some chip computes the best and safest way to rocket ahead, is immense fun. Ducati may not be used to making cruisers, but this one definitely feels every bit a… well, Ducati. You’ll need some serious cojones to use the launch control feature which requires you to twist to full revs and let go of the clutch. Although the motor doesn’t feel lethargic low down in the powerband, it feels so much better over 3,000rpm. In fact, there’s so much grunt up to around

Comfy riding position, but the stiff suspension is no friend to your bottom

6,500revs, that you don’t have to twist the throttle more than just a little to get going fast. The XDiavel changes direction exceptionally well for a 247kg cruiser, at any speed. Also, the top-drawer Brembo M50 brake callipers (same as the 1299 Panigale S) provide ample bite. The three riding modes – Sport, Touring and Urban – add to the character of this big Italian bruiser. Sport and Touring give you access to all 156 ponies while Urban numbs throttle response and widens the electronic safety net while letting you play with 100 horses. But that still felt more than adequate in the city. The riding posture on the XDiavel is upright with your arms and legs stretched forward, so this puts all the rider’s weight in the saddle. Yes, that’s very cruiser-like, not really a bad thing in the city, but best for roaring down down the highway. That said, the stiff suspension means your spine will bear the brunt of every sharp bump you go over at low speeds. It does get better when you up the pace, but when you do that, you’ll have to contend with heavy blasts of wind as there’s no screen

for protection. The XDiavel S is a bold attempt on Ducati’s part and its efforts seem to have paid off. It’s one hell of a motorcycle. According to Ducati, the ‘X’ in the XDiavel is meant to represent the meeting of two worlds – cruiser and performance bikes. And it’s safe to say that this definition is spot on. With this blinding-quick supercomputer at `18.47 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), the price is right too.

SPECIFICATION 1262cc, Testastretta DVT L-Twin, Liquid cooled; 6M; kerb weight: 247kg; wheelbase: 1215mm Fuel tank: 18litres 0-60kph:2.05s, 0-100kph:4.18s, 3050kph in 3rd:1.48, 50-70kph in 5th: 2.12s, 100kph in 6th: 3,600rpm

VeRDICT: a proper italian sportsbike that’s dressed in some dragster garb

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January I 2017

Skoda Rapid 8.24-12.79 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) we say: The CzeCh mid-size sedan goes under The knife To geT a more family look Agasti Kaulgi

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he Skoda Rapid, by itself, s for more than half of Skoda India’s sales numbers. It has done a commendable job for the company to bring in numbers and be the sole member in the sub-`10-lakh segment after the Fabia was put to sleep. Just like its VW twin, the Vento, the Rapid comes with a diesel and a petrol engine, both of which can be mated to an auto transmission. That has given the Rapid a lot of flexibility and has appealed to a wide variety of buyers in the past years. Now, Skoda’s sales champ has gone in for a mid-life refresh and this time, it isn’t just a minor model change. Design wise, a lot has changed. From the current lot of Skodas in India, the Rapid is the only one that looked a bit aged and isn’t completely in sync with the company’s design theme. This facelift will solve that problem and refresh things for the Rapid. Up front, everything from the hood, bumper, headlamps, foglamps to the grille, have been redesigned, and when all of it is put

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together, it looks rather chic. The grille size has been increased and it looks a bit more intimidating than the previous one. Unlike the current global trend in the automotive segment, the Rapid isn’t made to look like a smaller Octavia. The designers have ensured that there’s good distinction between the two models and each has its own identity. The rework to the Rapid’s design, though, is confined to its face; the side and the rear remain almost identical to the outgoing version’s, albeit a few chrome inserts here and there. With this facelift, Skoda has also tweaked the way the cabin looks. The design of the dashboard is almost the same as the previous version, but what has changed is the colour tone. Unlike the brown that was offered in the outgoing version, this one comes with a black and beige dual tone theme. With this, it looks far more up-market than before and the redesigned steering wheel complements it well. Though it’s a significant step-up over the previous Rapid’s cabin, it poses one problem: it comes so uncomfortably

New black and beige dual tone theme for the dashboard spruces things up in the cabin. Also notice the new 6.5-inch touchscreen

Typical Skoda affair in the cluster. Shows everything you need to know

OR TRY THIS

Volkswagen Vento Almost identical in pricing, specs and shares the same underpinnings as the Skoda

mated to a six-speed torque converter – the only such unit alive in the VW family. The petrol mill is quite refined too. Nothing changes with the driving dynamics either. And with the Polo underpinnings, things are quite well held together. The steering gives the right amount of and the body controls its weight rather well. It is willing to go quick through a section of twisty road, err, willingly. And if you ask about ride quality, it may not be the most pliant, but it does a good job of keeping the road irregularities away from your back. It has a tendency of bottoming out, and once it does, it results in a loud thud. The Rapid could well be one of the sharpest handling cars in the segment, and when it comes to handling high speeds, it does a fine job of being stable at speeds in excess of 150kph. In of body roll and pitch, the chassis does a good enough job of keeping it flat. The Rapid starts at `8.24 lakh for the base petrol spec and goes up to `12.79 lakh (both prices, ex-showroom, Delhi) for the top-spec diesel DSG. With this sort of

pricing, the Rapid is almost identical to the VW Vento. With the Octavia, the Superb and now, the Rapid, Skoda is stepping up its game in the market and beating the hierarchy that was maintained in the VW family for so many years. This mid-life refresh, too, has come in at the right time and offers a considerable number of things in addition to what the older car already had on offer. Now, the Rapid gives the buyer every reason to put money on the table, in almost all departments.

SPECIFICATION 1498cc, 4cyl, turbo diesel, 109bhp, 250Nm, 7spd DSG, FWD Kerb weight: 1770kg

VeRDICT: a big step-up from before. The cabin looks better and the updated styling has freshened up things.

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photography: RA JEEV GAIKWAD

close to its VW twin that it may just cannibalise it. The amount of area that the Rapid offers in the cabin is really good and five adults will be comfortable, even on a long drive. The boot, too, at 460 litres, is good for a car of this size. And if you ask about equipment, it’s decently loaded. It now gets a new 6.5-inch touchscreen to manage all your media and telephony needs. It also gets auto AC, Bluetooth telephony, steering controls, electric mirrors, but things like a rear-view camera and a button on the boot to pop it open have been given a skip even in the top spec. Just like the VW Ameo, the Rapid too gets a new downsized diesel engine. It has a few more horses than the outgoing diesel mill. It now produces 109bhp and 250Nm. In of refinement and NVH levels, it’s almost the same as the outgoing engine. It comes mated to either a fivespeed manual transmission or a dualclutch seven-speeder. The petrol engine remains the same. It churns out 103bhp and 153Nm and has the option of being

Stiff rear setup encourages you to carry speed through the bends

2017 H-D Roadster 9.70 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

we say: Harley’s sportster line-up didn’t comprise bikes tHat felt sporty. tHat is, until now. Christopher Chaves

he Sportster line of motorcycles – comprising the Iron 883, 1200 Custom and the Forty-eight – is one that’s unique to Harley Davidson. They’re a bunch that’s aggressively styled, in comparison to others in Harley’s stable, and hold a stronger, if not the strongest, emphasis on agility. For 2017, the cult biking brand adds another member to its Sportster ranks – cue the Roadster. Like the others in this line-up, the blacked-out Roadster looks stubby and robust, and doesn’t have a lot of shiny metal parts – which Harleys are traditionally known for. The Roadster is simplistic with its cast aluminium wheels, the simple round headlight and low, flat handlebars. From its slender frame which includes the 12.5-litre ‘walnut’ tank that sits ahead of the two-up seat, to the neat black exhaust shields and chunky 18-inch rear offset-split five-spoke rear wheel, the

photography: Manufacturer

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Roadster looks butch, lean even. There’s a single pod cluster that includes a big analog tacho, with a small digital readout, which gives the impression that this is a bike meant to be ridden harder than some of its stablemates. Seeing as the Roadster is powered by the same 96Nm producing long-stroke 1202cc V-twin motor that does duty in the 1200 Custom, blistering performance isn’t a strongpoint here. But it’s no geriatric either. As with most of Harley’s older powermills, redlining this motor feels almost criminal. There’s a good amount of clunking and clanging in the low- and mid-range with a healthy dose of vibrations felt through the bars and pegs, and there’s more than enough grunt to keep you entertained. Expecting a magic carpet ride? Forget it. The suspension is stiff and you’ll feel every bump and sharp undulation at low speed. Things get better once you up the pace. Out on the open highway, the motor is happiest pulling the bike along at around 100kph in fifth gear. The Roadster gets an upside-down fork up front – a first for the Sportster line in India – and also has a rake of 28.9 degrees, which allows this motorcycle

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The Roadster has simple, classic looks and little chrome

to change direction a lot better than the other Sportsters. In fact, that’s the best thing about this particular bike – the way it handles. The rear suspension gets a preload adjuster, but will require tools to toy around with. The suspension setup, though stiff, and the angle of rake, allows the Roadster to be a real treat through long sweepers. It doesn’t feel as odd leaning into corners as it does on other Sportsters. The twin-disc setup up front is a huge improvement over the others in this line-up as well. The Roadster’s saddle sits just 785mm off the ground, something that short riders will appreciate. I found the posture this bike makes you assume to be better suited to short riders too. My near-6ft frame meant that I had to hunch down for my palms to meet the flat grips, which is fine on low-speed rides in the city. But once we hit those long, seemingly endless Rajasthani highways, with all that wind pushing against me, riding the Roadster for over an hour and a half did get tiresome. The seat is a bit slippery and on letting the motor lose, you instantly slide back into the step-seat, which increases the stretch to the bars. Something that

January I 2017

Air-cooled motor will toast your inner thighs in traffic

2017 H-D Street Glide Special 31.25 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

riders of any height will find a hindrance are the wide footpegs that are positioned a little more forward than you would like. The pegs get in the way when you have to put your feet down, and will have to be folded while reversing or inching forward. The Roadster isn’t a Harley Davidson motorcycle that digs deep into the company’s ‘traditional’ roots, but offers a decent blend of performance and agility coupled with its own unique ride dynamics and a legendary nametag. At `9.7 lakh (ex-Delhi) the price is just about right with this one.

SPECIFICATION 1202cc, air-cooled, V-twin, Peak torque: 96Nm @ 4000rpm, Seat height: 785mm, Ground clearance: 150mm, Tyres: 120/70 R19 (f), 150/70 R18 (r) 12.5litres 259 kg

VeRDICT: definitely the best handling, sportiest Harley sportster in india. not the best option for long rides though.

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we say: Heart transplant, some new screws and an adjustment knob make a world of difference. Christopher Chaves

ne look at the Street Glide Special and you know that it isn’t your average grocerygetter. Long, low-slung, sleek and that colossal head-unit that houses an infotainment system – this is your typical, burly boulevard cruiser. With hard panniers adding a hint of practicality. We recently had the opportunity to ride the 2016 model, powered by the high-output, twin-cam 103 motor and the 2017 model with the new singlecam Milwaukee-eight at the helm. And the improvement in performance feels considerable. The new long-stroke 1745cc motor feels livelier than ever before. It’s a lot more free-revving and there’s no metallic clanging low down the powerband. The engine holds on to higher revs a lot better too. The 2017 Street Glide comprises the identical list of tech as the previous 2016 edition, and is marginally heavier than before, it feels much lighter and

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enthusiastic thanks to the new part-liquidcooled motor. Apart from the major change in the power mill department, the 2017 model gets easier-to-remove screws to its hard panniers and the rear suspension also gets a knob that adjusts preload settings.

SPECIFICATION Engine: 1745cc, single-cam, V-twin, Peak torque: 150Nm @ 3250rpm, Seat height: 685mm, Ground clearance: 125mm 22.7litres 376 kg

VeRDICT: new motor gives this big tourer a new lease on life. feels more lively and agile than before.

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Ford Endeavour vsToyota Fortuner we say: A set of questions first Asked in 2009 get Answered once more in 2017. And this time, it’s been pArticulArly tricky to tAke sides Devesh Shobha This one is barely a couple of months old and has some big shoes to fill. New looks are complemented by a set of brand new petrol and diesel engines, and the 2.8 4x4 AT here has a relatively smaller 2755cc turbo-diesel that gets 174bhp and 450Nm. A six-speed AT sends power to all four wheels. And this will set you back by `38.96 lakh (on-road, Mumbai).

What’s the inside story like?

Simple, uncluttered and unfussy, the Endy’s dash looks quite smart. Quality of materials used has an edge over its rival and is the one with more ticks on the features list. Space is good for all rows and so are comfort levels. The third-row is more useful than before and can be electronically folded by push of a button. Overall, a pleasant place to be in.

With all sorts of horizontal and vertical lines, the Fortuner’s cabin looks busy and the all-dark theme doesn’t help brighten things up. Though quality isn’t a cause for concern, in of look and feel, it narrowly misses out to the Ford. However, it matches up on space and seat comfort. Nonetheless, the third row is best left for kids and pets.

How do they fare in of engine performance?

It’s all very calm and composed in here, and we like it this way. Bigger engine means there’s more power to play with, doesn’t get stressed too easily and has an edge in of driveability. Linear power delivery and smoother gear shifts make for a plush drive. It has better in-gear times and in a drag race, the Endy would outdo the T-Fort by a second.

It loses out to the Ford in the numbers game, but this one too doesn’t fail to give a big SUV-like driving feel. Power delivery is jerky though and the auto ’box makes the engine sound much too loud and stressed. In fact, the manual is smoother than the AT. But, at 9.8kpl (city) and 11.44kpl (highway), the Toyota is more than 2kpl up on the Endy in both cycles.

1837 mm

1835 mm

Formal introductions please

Launched in early 2016, the Endeavour is the best full-size Ford SUV India has experienced to date. The Titanium 3.2 AT you see here is powered by a 3198cc turbo diesel with 197bhp and 470Nm, teamed with a six-speeder that sends power to all four corners. Priced at `37.48 lakh (on-road, Mumbai), this is the top-spec variant with all the bells and whistles.

4892 mm Ground clearance - 225 mm

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4795 mm Ground clearance - 220 mm

3198cc, 4cyl, turbo diesel, 197bhp, 470Nm, 6A, 4WD

2755cc, 4cyl, turbo diesel, 174bhp, 450Nm, 6A, 4WD

0-100kph: 11.2s, 30-50kph: 1.9s, 50-70kph: 2.7s, 80-0kph: 27m; 2.4s

0-100kph: 12.3s, 30-50kph: 2.2s, 50-70kph: 3s, 80-0kph: 27.8m; 2.5s

Fuel efficiency: 7.7kpl (city), 9.2kpl (highway)

Fuel efficiency: 9.8kpl (city), 11.44kpl (highway)

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Ford Endeavour 3.2 4X4 AT Titanium 37.48 lakh (on-road, Mumbai)

Can the T-Fort make a comeback with ride and handling? Which one should I put my money on?

38.96 lakh (on-road, Mumbai)

These are big and tall SUVs, so they can’t match the new breed of mini-SUVs for handling. The Endy has the softer setup here, so along with having the better ride, it also rolls around corners and bounces over undulations more. But at highway speeds, it’s the Ford that feels more composed and that gives you the confidence to push it more often.

Toyota still prefers stiffer spring ratings for its ‘smallest’ SUV in India and that means the ride is jarring at low speeds. Things do improve with increase in speed, but the Fortuner never really settles in. It doesn’t trail the Ford by much in handling as it can take corners with equal poise, but it could do with some positive steering feel at high speeds.

Looks are subjective and in our eyes, the big and handsome Endy trumps every other SUV in its class. Plus, it gives you more money for your buck with a vast list of features and safety aids. It’s the better one when it comes to driving manners and definitely has an edge in of overall ride comfort. Also, it could park on its own if you ask it to.

The Fortuner may have lost its butch looks, but with its XXLsize and flashy styling, it’s the one that catches a lot of attention. But missing out on some features and being `1.5 lakh dearer than the Ford doesn’t work in its favour. But then, it comes with Toyota’s unmatched reliability and after sales service, something that’s a big deciding factor here.

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Toyota Fotuner 2.8 4x4 AT

VeRDICT: Both manage to offer that big brute SUV feel when out on the road. They’re evenly matched on space and seat comfort but the Endeavour nudges ahead of the Fortuner with a superior cabin, ride and handling, and comes across as a better value-for-money proposition.

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Imagine the soundtrack that these three pump out. It’ll set many hearts racing

MV Agusta F3 800 16.78 lakh (ex-Pune) we say: A stylish, compAct bike with greAt performAnce And eAsy to Use hAndling

photography: Parag Parelkar

Debabrata Sarkar

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trip to Pune to recieve the keys to an MV Agusta is special. Not too long back, I had made the trip to ride the F4. But it was pouring and I could do little more than hold on for my dear life and enjoy short bursts of its incredible soundtrack. This time around, the weather is better and I’ve been handed over a smaller, lighter, more comfy but just as pretty motorcycle – the F3. The similarities in design are pretty clear, although the F3 makes do without the LED strips next to the air-scoops in the front fairing and adds prominent pieces of mesh in every scoop. Even at standstill, it looks less aggressive with a deeper excavation for the seat and slightly less forward bias and, of course, rolling it around is also simpler thanks to its lower kerb weight. Swinging a leg over the F3 and finding a snug spot on the rather thin, hard seat is easy. Your feet land flat on the floor and the mass of the motorcycle settles in nicely between your, err, legs. Reach out for the handlebar and it is a fairly

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easy stretch with the controls falling easily to hand without demanding a superbly aggressive riding stance. Pull in the clutch and thumb the starter and the three-cylinder, 798cc motor comes to life with a rather gravelly idle. Traction control set to maximum assistance, ABS on normal and throttle maps on Normal, I set off. Bottom-end is weak and you have to be mindful ing enough throttle as you start from a standstill and it isn’t difficult to notice how the ECU attempts to keep responses smooth. A few kilometres in and I realise the ride is unlikely to get any better as the stiff suspension blurs my vision over rough patches. The heat coming off the motor is also becoming noticeable by the time I reach the final traffic light before I get out of the city. But then, the lights turn green and I’m afforded a bit of an empty stretch of road. Off the line smoothly and a slight wring of the right wrist. I realise I’ve been using only about half the revs the engine allows and it already feels quick. The quickshifter works beautifully as

Simple cluster is easy to navigate but absence of a fuel gauge is irritating

Rubberised buttons difficult to use, especially when wearing gloves

you tap your way through the six-speed gearbox. I start fiddling with the engine maps with my right thumb to get to Sport. The difference in response is evident. It gets a bit choppy at mid-input levels and then lets a bark out when you get a chance to whack it open. Getting to higher revs and listening to the threepot motor howl is an experience with no apparent let up in power delivery and an incremental factor of smoothness as the revs build. Acceleration is rapid from the 148bhp motor and triple-digit speeds are achieved before you can count to four and it carries on at a similarly incredible rate after that. While Sport feels exhilarating, the bike doesn’t react too well to edgy inputs in this mode. I decide it best to move back to Normal having scrolled past Rain (massively muted responses) and Custom. I reset traction control to a far less aggressive setting (you need to turn the key off and on for it to take effect). Needless to say, it is quick, but at the same time, doesn’t feel too scary. Especially around corners. Lean in and you’re likely to forget that it is an 800, it

OR TRY THIS

Triumph Daytona 675R 675cc three-pot, racing-derived genes and looks to make your heart melt. An expensive but fine machine.

feels more like a smaller capacity bike as it changes directions with ease. A set of Diablo Rosso Corsas keep good company and massive lean angles are easy to achieve. Throw it into a corner, roll on the throttle and the F3 just keeps going, the speeds building steadily with a lot of reassurance from the available grip. Hit a bump though and it is transmitted straight to your spine with little loss in composure of the motorcycle. Whack the throttle open and it will do a gentle power wheelie, depending on the traction levels set. If you ever wonder how fast you’ve been travelling, too fast would be the correct answer. However, reeling it in takes only a slight dab of the front brakes – from the twin-disc set up is strong. Before long, you realise the F3 800 is almost impossible to ride peacefully. The aggressive stance and its incredible handling makes you want to crouch a bit lower, get up on the balls of your feet and let the triple scream at every empty stretch of road. Yes, it is incredibly stiffly sprung and your back takes a beating over rough surfaces, throttle responses

are quite choppy in Sport and the seat is about as comfy as a hardwood stool, not to forget that it’s expensive too at `16.78 lakh (ex-Pune). But, it is a delight to rev through the broad powerband, the chassis is absolutely brilliant as it is easy to use effectively through corners and the brakes pack a fair bite. And, if you need another reason, it is designed like a piece of art, just like the F4 and sounds absolutely fantastic as well. Essentially, if you want something exotic, the F3 800 is for you.

SPECIFICATION 798cc, petrol, 148bhp, 88Nm, 6M Top speed: 269kph, Tyres: 120/70 ZR17 (fr); 180/55 ZR17 (rr) 173kg

VeRDICT: beautifully sculpted, in a package that feels like a smaller bike and is very easy to use. not to forget that exhaust note.

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Metal. Faces. Retro. Entertainment. Culture. Every month

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Prancing parade

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have been on 31-degree inclines sideways – with the left set of wheels on lower ground, the right set of wheels on higher terrain and the seatbelt keeping me from falling over the side. But that’s always been the case when I’m off-roading. At 20kph. Not at 160kph. I felt like the walls were closing in on me if I drove faster. In fact, I was afraid of driving faster because I struggled to retain a sense of perception. It’s strange driving fast with your body tilted at an angle. And at the same time, I was afraid of taking my foot off the throttle as I kept feeling that I may just slide off down into the grass. I was at the Daytona International Speedway. On the famous banking. And the next person who tells me that Daytona and Nascar is nothing more than driving with your steering turned left, I will wish a Toyota Fortuner falls on them. Roof down. The only thing I can imagine to be more of a challenge to your sense of perception is the infamous ‘maut ka kuan’ (the well of death) that you see in circus shows with either brave or deranged riders riding around in their motorcycles. And after about a week of feeling out of place in Florida – Miami, Naples, Orlando and Daytona – I was in a Ferrari 488GTB along the banking of Daytona, the most challenging track I have ever driven on. Not that I am a track pro. But that banking is to be driven on to be believed. The last time I felt such fear was when I proposed to a girl and she said yes. About feeling out of place, well, I was the only one who didn’t own a Ferrari among some 70-odd owners of Ferraris. And soon, the numbers would swell as more from around the USA were to to make an attempt at a world record. For the congregation of the maximum number of Ferraris at one spot. It’s been done before. At the Silverstone race track in the UK. There were 964 of them in

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Here’s Ferrari World. Not iN abu dHabi aNd WitHout aNy rollercoaster rides. all it Has are Ferraris. aNd a lot oF tHem. wOrds: Srir am Nar ayaNaN

Of course, it’s not just enough to line up these beauties. The proud owners made sure everyone got a glimpse of what lies at the heart

Driving at Daytona is a real challenge. That famous banking is insane

photography: manufacturer

2012. And all that was needed was 965 Ferraris to break the record. But being the US of A, where a small-sized coffee is served in what other cultures call a jug, and where the massive Ford F-150 pick up is the best-selling car, 965 wouldn’t cut it. One thousand was the objective. More on that later. The biggest reason I was feeling out of place is because everybody was asking me which Ferrari I owned. Now, I was flattered that looking at me, and my clothes, anyone could even imagine I am an owner. But there are only so many times I could stand the pitiful look I got when I muttered back, “I don’t. I am just a journalist.” Which led to discussions about the Ferraris I had driven. And there was one overbearing sentiment with most owners, “We are not sure if Ferrari should be going turbo, you know.” Well, Ferrari, are you listening? After three days on the road from Miami to Naples to Orlando to Daytona, we were at the Finali Mondiali – Ferrari’s championship for gentlemen racers – racers who aren’t pros, but own Ferraris and have a racing license. This was also where Ferrari has its FXX and FXXK (I’d really re-think the names here) programmes, where owners can drive track-only versions of the 599, the Enzo and the LaFerrari they possess, but can’t take home with them or drive on the road.

Long story short, Daytona had classic Ferraris, classic Formula One Ferraris, track-only Ferraris, an auction of the last ever LaFerrari, which sold for USD 7 million – the entire sum going to the Italian quake relief fund – and a lot of racing and noise, all concluded with an attempt at a procession with the maximum number of Ferraris possible. Being winter, the sun went down by 6pm and Daytona was sparkling and floodlit with several hundred owner-driven Ferraris on the track. One hundred, 300, 500, 700, 800 and it seemed like a few more, but then that was it. Daytona saw an exact 809 Ferraris drive by in peace. A massive number by any standard, but just not enough to beat the record the 964 Ferraris set at Silverstone. Was I complaining? Hell, no. It was a glorious sight. So the record wasn’t broken. But then, life’s like that. Even if you are Ferrari. Even with 809 of them, you want more.

‘There were classics, track-only cars, classic F1 models and even the last-ever LaFerrari’

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E X P E R I E N C E

Ashes, ashes and we all fall down We take a bunch of fords to the remnants of a violent eruption of nature Words: srir am nar ayanan

his was bizarre terrain. It was engulfed by skyscrapers of greenery, but the floor was a stark and dull ash-grey. And about ankle-deep, clear water, flowing along some parts of the ash-grey. Unhindered. I am in the Pampanga region in the Philippines. What the locals call the Lahar bed. The terrain I am standing on has been created by the volcanic flow of nearby Mount Pinatubo when it erupted in 1991. The result seems to have turned out to be one of those terrains you’d see King Kong swinging out of. And the tall cliffs have massive boulders bulletted into them as if a group of giants were playing darts and forgot to remove them. In front of such massive edifices, the usually gargantuan Ford Endeavour – or the Everest as it’s called in these parts – looked like a toenail. And this toenail had to traverse a constantly

PhotograPhy: manufacturer

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changing Lahar and the most challenging part, the semi-flowing ash. The small, gushing rivulets were also carrying with them semi-moist ash. So, the Endeavours had to be at a constant 35-40kph speed so as to not get bogged down or surrender itself to the current. Why are we here, though? Honestly, till the point of getting to the Lahar, I had no idea. It seemed Ford wanted to show off its range of SUVs in the Philippines – the EcoSport, which we have already driven; the Explorer which is rather good but only comes in left-hand-drive; the Endeavour/ Everest, which we have already driven and the Kuga/Escape, which may or may not make it to India. But the setting – Manila and the small towns around it – was a mirror image of India. Literally. We drive on the left side of the road, they, on the right. The chaos on the streets, the cacophony of overhead cables as you look up at

the sky, the jugaad-made Jeepneys and tricycles… it felt like I was driving on the wrong side of the road in an India with much better road surfaces. Oh yes. Philippines definitely understands what a road is supposed to do and be. But after some very mundane urban tasks in the EcoSport and the Kuga and a very staid off-road track in the very capable Explorer that we may never get to see, the Endeavour in the Lahar was amazing. In terrain that’s lush green and stark, wet and dry, remote and accessible, where the nature of the water, the flow of land and constantly evolving landscape, for a change, overshadowed the cars we were here for. As I was getting out of the Lahar back into civilisation, it dawned on me. I have just been in an ocean of calm and solitude that was created through violence and devastation. The SUVs were great, but for once, the terrain was even greater.

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1.It takes something really tough to get going anywhere around here 2. That’s a splash with volcanic ash and gushing water 3. Posers posing like they made it to the top of Mt Everest 4. Some simple, smooth terrain a welcome break 5. The Explorer showing off, er, off-road ability

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Hi-Pace!

A JAguAr without A V8 will tAke some getting used to, but eVen with electric power, it looks like JAg is hitting All the right notes… in complete silence words: Debabr ata Sark ar

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Jaguar design boss Ian Callum on the I-Pace’s looks

aguar finally unveiled the I-Pace in all its swoopy glory at the LA Motor show. This fresh new concept is one of the few examples of a full-electric SUV we have seen thus far. It is doubly special because Jaguar has only just come to with the SUV space with the F-Pace and currently has no form of electric car in its portfolio – plug-in or regular hybrid. What it has stepped into this year, though, is Formula E and it promises that we will see a quick transfer of technology from its track cars to the road-going ones. For now, the I-Pace, with its coupe-like design, is heavily front biased with the cab sitting far forward and with strong haunches accompanying them. Although Jags have traditionally had long bonnets, the lack of an internal combustion engine gave designers a free hand to do as they saw fit with the proportions. There seem to be certain bits inspired by the C-X 75, and more cool touches like the air dam with the layered front, the flush door handles and the strong rear-end, are all designed to make the shape as aerodynamically efficient as possible, in order to maximise range. Even the two electric motors have been

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integrated into the front and rear axles to minimise loss in transmission and are rated at 200 horsepower each, which essentially means a combined power output of 400 ponies. This, say Jaguar engineers, will be good enough to combine with the 700Nm of torque, that will be available instantaneously (electric power, ?) to crack 100kph in roughly four seconds. The 36-cell lithium-ion batteries that have been laid out between the front and rear axles not only help keep a low c of g to improve handling, but also gives the I-Pace the ability to travel 500km on a single charge and can achieve 90 per cent charge in 80 minutes (given the correct sort of supply rating). There’s an efficient heat management system that the I-Pace employs to try and keep peak operating temperatures down. For now, the exterior is promised to remain largely unchanged till we see it debut in showrooms, sometime in mid-2018, but the interior is likely to make way for a more conventional layout. And though no comments were made about prices that the I-Pace will retail at, there are broad indications that it will be roughly 10-15 per cent more expensive than an equivalent F-Pace.

and the fact that it does not look like other Jaguars “It does really (look like a Jaguar), and in a Jaguar, it is about great proportion, different proportions, beautiful lines, simple forms, presence and performance. This car has all this. If you look at Jag’s history and you think of the Mark 7, 9, 10, XJ, E-Type and so on, they were completely different. It is actually Jaguar’s prerogative to be able to do that and I have to remind people that you can’t stick to one element but need to keep moving. The brand’s real ethos is about change and so long as you have these elements of beauty, that is all that matters. When we designed this car, the idea was to make an SUV and that’s not what we normally do. So, the opportunity to do something of this kind, with these proportions, was unique, visually. These haunches are not accidental and are designed for the visual way forward. That is the drama the car creates and you have to do one or the other. It is all about having a clear intent by the end of the day. All the power is in the backseat. You could put a long bonnet in the car and do a more conventional design. But what do you put in front? I am just so satisfied when I look at it and say this is the way it should be and not with a long bonnet. That would not be the right story.” ToPGEar.com

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If you cannot drive fast, there’s a solution: stop driving

Sriram Narayanan ver since M S Dhoni was reported to have interests in a player management agency, I have lost interest in cricket and can’t relate to the current crop of players. So, pardon me if I take some names from not your time. My point is, cricket is a dangerous game. You face Curtly Ambroses, Courtney Walshs, Allan Donalds and Brett Lees – all hurtling leathered bullets at 140-160kph. Then there’s the swing and guile of the Wasims, Waqars and Warnes. If you don’t know your way with a bat, you could get severely hurt. There’s only so much pads and genital guards can do. Now, let’s imagine cricket is made safe. Replace leather balls with tennis balls. Tell the Ambroses and the Lees to not bowl faster than 50kph. Instruct the Warnes and Saqlains to not bamboozle batsmen with needless spin. Make it clear to Jonty Rhodes that he should only catch balls that come straight to his palm rather than flying all over the field and scraping his skin or cracking his bones in the bargain. It’s safe. And will allow everybody, skilled or not, an opportunity at cricket. Because everybody, skilled or not, has an opportunity on our roads. Because now, if you can start the engine, get smoothly off the clutch and on from first to second, you are fit to drive. If you take a U-turn while turning the steering like you milk a cow, you are fit to drive. If you keep flitting between lanes at 40-50kph irrespective of traffic around you, you are fit to drive. Let’s face it. If you’re inclined strongly towards mathematics, you wouldn’t make much of a poet. If you are gifted with an incredible voice, there’s no point spending your life as an ant. If you can’t bear the sight of dismembered organs, would you still want to pursue medicine? So, why must millions in this world drive when they just look at it as a chore? And then there are

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those who just aren’t interested, and there are those who just can’t. It’s these people that make our roads perilous. Here’s the best driving test. Take a gentle curve on an expressway at 140kph while sticking to your lane like you are on rails. If you do, you . If you don’t, well, you fail. Trains go at close to maximum speed. enger aircrafts fly at close to maximum speed. Why shouldn’t cars have the environment and their operators have the ability to be able to drive at close to maximum speed? Efficient transportation is all about time management. If you can maintain an average speed of 120kph, your commuting time is halved from what it would be at a 60kph limit. You could argue that I’m wanting to turn driving into a gladiatorial sport. But it is. Because an out of control one-to-two tonne vehicle at 60kph is as dangerous as being thrown into the ring bare-handed against two tigers. So, shouldn’t the person at the helm of this heavy, fast-moving object have above-average skills than what is currently ed off as driving ability? Shouldn’t he or she have the ability to counter unpredictable eventualities with the ability to maintain three-digit speeds too? If you go by the world’s attitude to driving, Scandinavians should only commute for about the three to four months of summer they have.

‘If driving is a chore for you, don’t do it. Uninterested motoring could be perilous’ But instead of being cooped up at home, being safe, they hone their driving skills and car control to counter eventualities of weather, terrain and wildlife. Which is why an average Scandinavian can do a hand-brake turn at a filling station and the above average Scandinavian goes on to become a motorsport legend. They don’t go about their lives pottering at 20kph because that’s safe on ice. Getting a driving license should be like getting a place in a playing 11. If you’re bad, just don’t bother. If you’re average, you could handle drinks. If you are above average, you could be the 12th man. And if you can drive fast, smooth and safe, you stand a chance in the playing 11. The unskilled and uninterested motorists of the world need to be weeded out. [email protected]

The views expressed in this column are solely those of the author.

Shreenand Sadhale his always happens. Every time I convince myself that I have denounced crass materialism and question the existence of money beyond basic needs, irrefutable evidence ing the opposite appears around the corner. Usually, it’s in the form of a red motorcycle at the apex. This time, though, it was an MGB GT in – what else – British Racing Green. So much for having read Thoreau for a month! But allow me to backtrack a bit. About a month ago, I ended up at one of those events with a dress code. But said event promised a ‘classic car talk’ which is just about enough reason for me to attend. Anyway, the crowd was moderate but knowledgeable (there’s no counting with class) but the lack of numbers was more than made up for by the speaker’s eloquence. He spoke as fluently about X1/9s and Urracos as he did about Dussies and Daimlers and seemed to know enough about motor racing in Southeast Asia to write a book on it. I caught up with Eli Solomon after his chat, only to find out that he’d actually done that already! Eli spent a little bit of time in investment banking before he mended his ways and started writing about cars and motor racing. These days, he runs a bi-monthly car magazine in Singapore that talks only about cars from the past. And, as it turns out, his knowledge isn’t just encyclopaedic; he was actually speaking from experience. Just to give you an idea of how big a pistonhead he is, Eli currently owns a Lancia Fulvia, a Jag XK150, an MG J, a Jensen Interceptor and a Daimler. And since he can’t get his fill from this lot, he also has a Formula 2000 and a Brabham racer that he

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‘When you drive the MGB. that’s all you do, in this world of constant distractions’ driving it, the sensations I could feel with my palms put a boyish grin on my face. The throttle, the brakes, the clutch, the short-throw gearbox... you just feel so connected to everything, you have fun trundling along even in a straight line. Besides, what could the enger possibly say that would be more interesting than listening to that grunty four-pot being fed by the two Sus in perfect tune. When you drive the MGB, that’s all you do, really, and in this world of constant distractions, I couldn’t get enough of its honest simplicity. By the time I tossed the keys back to Eli, my mind was working overtime with buy/sell/trade possibilities of how my garage could accommodate a dark green coupe. It was easy for Thoreau to be ascetic when he didn’t know how to drive or ride.

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This month, our columnist gets his classic car fill

occasionally blitzes down Sepang with. Always nice to know someone who makes you look sane. All of this is housed in a two-storey garage that has enough space to work or lounge around in and gaze at the collection. The second storey houses his office that has enough motoring books to ride the world of hunger, if reading could fill stomachs. As you’ve probably guessed, this is just a long winded way of telling you how I ended up in the driver’s seat of Eli’s Bee. Now, if I could sum it up in a word, ‘engaging’ is what I’d call it. For one, you sit low, and I’m talking ‘average-SUV bumper-level’ low, which is a great place to be if you want to nail every apex. And since this is the car that democratised the sports car, it is probably illegal not to. The engine isn’t as revvy but there’s more than enough bottom-end grunt to let you laze around in fifth. Yes, fifth! You see, Eli’s done just the ride mods to this car to turn it into a daily driver in modernday traffic. So, it has got uprated brakes, Minator eight-spoke alloys that allow it to wear modernday rubber and a perfectly mated five-speed Ford gearbox. Then there are the tasteful bits like that Moto-Lita steering wheel, Lucas fog lamps and a free-flow exhaust that make this MGB look and sound the part. Make no mistake though. A modern-day Miata, the MGB is not. The steering is heavy at crawling speeds, the suspension, though not hard, thumps even over minor bumps and noise levels in the cabin make sure your vocal cords get a proper workout. But in the first kilometre of

The views expressed in this column are solely those of the author.

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L a n d r ov e r s e r I e s 1

Brute fours If you’re goIng to be stuck between a rock and a hard place, suggest you take thIs along

oday, when we see models from the current Land Rover/Range Rover line-up, looking glamorous, purposeful and fettled with sybaritic delights, it’s hard to believe that it all started with a drawing in the sand. It’s a story that assumes mythical dimensions, but it’s true. The Wilks brothers – Maurice was

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the engineering director, while Spencer was the managing director – were instrumental in bringing the venerable Rover company back into profitability in the 1930s. After the Second World War, inspired by the Jeep, Maurice felt that there was need for a utility vehicle for agricultural and allied purposes. One day, to explain his concept of a multi-purpose four-wheel drive vehicle to his brother, Maurice drew the shape of the original Land Rover in the sand of Red Wharf Bay – a Welsh island where the Wilks family owned some land. The shape was so basic and so easy to execute that it has been virtually unchanged since 1948, when it was first seen at the Amsterdam Motor Show. Those simple but distinctive lines have been seen all over the world in the most unexpected of places; as much a part of the landscape as its original denizens. Today, when you imagine a wild African savannah or even the rough Himalayan roads above Darjeeling, the Land

Rover is an integral part of the imagery. What’s more, I have heard that about 70 per cent of all Land Rovers ever built are still going strong. Indestructible. But there’s a reason for that. The Land Rover was designed to be quickly manufactured, so there were no complexities involved in putting it together – so it was simple and sturdy by design. Post-WWII, Britain faced severe shortage of raw material, including steel. But aluminium alloy was available. Thus, the new machine wore aluminium alloy skin, which was not only light but unlike steel, it did not rust. Which gave it the touch of immortality. At this point, I should ideally say something from one of those WhatsApp forwards about how God helps you when you’re confronted with problems, but I’ll let it be. In front of me is a beautifully restored firstgeneration Land Rover – subsequently called Series I. I’ve seen cars and I’ve seen cars, and this one is so honest and unpretentious that it

has nothing to hide – every little nut and rivet on it has a function to perform, and none of those functions include winning beauty contests. And that’s exactly why it’s so beautiful. The Land Rover is all angles and edges and there is nothing devised for creature comforts – okay, it has got a cushioned bench seat, now what more could you possibly want? Clambering over inside and lording over what I see, the driving position is quite upright, with the steering wheel in a position that feels almost truck-like. The accelerator pedal is also rather unusual – it’s not slanted but horizontal – and I have a theory that it could have been designed such, so that even if you were wearing heavysoled agricultural boots, you would be able to press the pedal. By that measure, shouldn’t the brake pedal also be horizontal? Hmm… Early versions of the Land Rover borrowed a 1.6-litre petrol engine from the Rover enger car family, but this one received

The Land Rover owes its existence to the World War II Jeep, but it has left its original inspiration far behind and gone places – literally. It started off as a drawing in the sand and transformed into a highly utilitarian vehicle that was simply unstoppable – no matter what terrain you threw at it. Born in an era when materials were in short supply, the Land Rover made its light and rust-proof aluminium-alloy skin into its strongest virtue. It was simply the world’s ultimate 4x4 and its appeal was universal. Since 1948, more than two million Series I, II, III and Defender generations and other variants rolled out of the Solihull plant in the UK – production stopped only as recently as January 2015. Quite simply, if the Land Rover didn’t exist, someone would have had to invent it.

It’s so much a part of rugged nature that you could make a wildlife documentary on it

PhotograPhy: aDItya BENgaLI

any doubts that the early Land rovers were built in an era of deprivation?

Why the Land rover?

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LIttLe-KnoWn L and rover s1 facts

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Spencer Wilks, the MD of Rover, owned the Laggan Estate on the Scottish island of Islay – famous for its rugged terrain and, of course, whisky. In 1947, Ian Fraser – the estate’s gamekeeper – seeing Spencer drive his heavily modified Rover 12 on the rough land, remarked it must be a “land rover”. The name stuck. Islay, of course, would be a location where Land Rovers were tested in the late-1940s and it continued to be a proving ground for the vehicle.

the bigger 2.0-litre motor. Displacing 1,997cc, accompanied by a soft burble, the inline-four puts out 52bhp at 4,000rpm and 137Nm at just 1,500rpm. With its light body structure and no load to haul, the motor still feels peppy after all these years. The gears, too, engage very well and it is romping around this rock-strewn place like a mountain goat. Two additional levers, one for 2WD and 4WD and one for Low and High are also there for the taking, but I guess I will cross the rope bridge when I come to it! There is a lightness to the Series I in the way it moves; that could be because the load bay is empty, but this sensation is felt through the free steering and it turns very well. Quite a good attribute to have when on the one side it

is sheer rock and on the other, it is a shortcut to Hades. Visibility is clear all-round and it is not difficult to see why this machine was fit to be taken anywhere in the world. No wonder, then, that the Land Rover was a raging success, not only coming to the rescue of people in remote places, but Rover itself. It gave rise to many other variants across wheelbase lengths and body styles, and you could fit it with a long list of extras to make it suit a diverse set of needs. Now that the Defender – the last of this generation – is part of modern history, a new one should be on its way. For what was essentially a stop-gap model, the Land Rover lives on. We’d like to thank Viveck Goenka for allowing us to drive and shoot his Land Rover Series I.

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In 1955, six British students set off on an epic journey in two Series I Land Rovers. They would drive from the English Channel all the way to Singapore. They roped in other sponsors for everything else, from tea-bags to an electric shaver. According to them, the nursery slopes ended and the expedition really began on the Delhi-Kolkata Grand Trunk Road and beyond. After six months and six days and nearly 16,000 miles, they reached Singapore. To return, they shipped the cars from there to Kolkata and drove back again to the UK. All in all, the team and the cars travelled a distance of 32,000km over almost a year. Oh, the two Land Rovers were called Oxford and Cambridge.

The headlamps would eventually be moved to the fenders with late Series II models

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A go-anywhere vehicle like the Land Rover obviously finds its place in the remotest of spots around the world; naturally this lends itself to humanitarian operations. Land Rover has had a 60-plus year association with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. It all started when Land Rover supplied a Series I to the British Red Cross in Dubai as a mobile dispensary in 1954.

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DecoDing Driverless cars #06 I The white blood cells of a driverless car TO DefeaT The enemy, yOu musT knOw iT insiDe OuT. here’s whaT yOu neeD TO knOw abOuT ThOse self-Driving Things The wOrlD can’T sTOp raving abOuT

rom driving meticulously in a jam-packed road while avoiding someone in the blind spot to taking you home when you’ve had three more tequila shots to prove bravado, one thing is sure – a driverless car will not stop amazing you for a long time. Today, I’ll let you know another cool feature of a driverless car that will leave you in a state of awe. This feature is to a car what white blood cells (WBC) are to a human body. To give you a refresher, WBCs protects our body from diseases by increasing our immunity. It’s also the same holy task force in our blood that fights off forces of evil diseases. The feature I’m discussing here is the ability to self-diagnose a car by a driverless car computer. Yes, self-diagnosis is what Google calls it and it even has a patent protection on the name. This feature saves you from a lot of uninvited hassles. And mark my words; careless people will love this feature more than anyone else. How? Read the rest of the article and it will become apparent. The self-diagnose feature is all about finding

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the ADc can drive itself to a workshop and notify them about faulty components

problems in various components of a vehicle and making a strategy to prevent bad from getting worse and then worst. Let’s take an example of tyres that are almost worn out. After detecting a pothole, to increase longevity and reduce further wear, it will drive by avoiding a pothole. Also, it will apply brakes gently more often than bringing your car to a screeching halt. Worn out brakes is another area where the self-diagnosis feature of the ADC plays a vital

‘The car’s computer can find out problems with various components’ role. If its sensors detect that brakes are not damaged, the feature avoids every scenario that could damage them more. Your driverless car, let’s consider, is driving on a road where it reads a steep descent road sign. Now, as the brakes are damaged and damaging them further could be disastrous, the ADC, in such a scenario, controls fuel

supply to prevent the car from moving at a high speed. This prevents the need of heavy brakes at the bottom of a descent. Also, from its map data, it can detect that a traffic signal is 400 metres ahead. Again, rather than braking suddenly, to mitigate the risk, it decreases the speed and applies brakes for a longer distance. Not only this, the ADC is capable of driving a car to the nearest repair facility. It can navigate to a repair facility, notify them about components that require repair and drive back home after its components get repaired!! You can shout “go get yourself repaired, you damn awesome car”. Try being polite though. Well, it doesn’t matter. Also, in the future, electric cars are going to be commonplace. Today, you run out of fuel, in the future, you will run out of charge. And if you are like me, and ignore the flashing signs when a vehicle runs on reserve fuel, this feature is something you will love more than anything else. It detects that you are about to run out of fuel or charge and manoeuvre to the nearest fuel/recharge station. Did I mention that it can fix incorrect wheel alignment and tyre pressure, too? Nitin Balodi, the author of this column, is a Research Analyst at GreyB Services, a patent research and analytics firm based in Singapore.

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Ask

Uncle

Our mysterious agony uncle helps solve your dilemmas. Sorry if he gets a bit grumpy

TopGear Planned to buy your Rangie with cash? Sorry, this won’t work anymore...

What do I do? Sunil G Throw him a party? Get him a cake? If he’s an adult, you can gift him an adult toy? Buy him his first drink? What’s the Baleno got to do with it? Which is the best smartphone for people who use a car very heavily? Vinod By heavy you mean heavy-handedly? Or heavy-footedly? Or do you try to lift or move your car? As for the best smartphone, which ever phone brand has d in this magazine is the best. What is your take on seat covers for cars? Taramani SM Whatever my take on them is, one thing I am pretty sure of – they will not cover the entire length and breadth of your car. I have a lot of ion for cars and bikes. Please suggest what I should do about it. Tuhina

Dear Uncle TG I was planning to buy a car. But now that certain currencies of certain denominations are banned, what do I do? Aftab

i l l u s t r at i o n : VA I B H AV P

I don’t understand the question. Do you want to buy a car or do you want financial advice?

Which is your favourite super vehicle? The Knight Rider? The Street Hawk? Or the Batmobile? Milan K They still haven’t figured out a car that can talk and drive itself like Knight Rider. You can’t ride a bike at 300mph like in Street Hawk. The Batmobile depends on who Batman is. If it’s Clooney or Adam West, it should be a matte black Nano. I personally like Tarzan the Wonder car.

I once saw a Ferrari. It was red. And I decided one day I would get one for myself. Do you have any tips on how to do that? Govind Delvadiya Walk into showroom, pay, order, customise… wait. Is this a trick question? I ordered a Maruti Baleno yesterday and was given a waiting period. But my son’s birthday is next week and I can’t wait for a month.

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I had that too. And now I have ended up with this job of answering random questions from strange people. Whatever it is that you do, try doing better. Will Donald Trump becoming POTUS affect the quality of American cars? Raunak What was Donald Trump doing before he became president? Was he CEO of one of the many car companies that used to be in Detroit? If yes, then they are all going to look the same. Which is the best car for a large family? Shalini M If you have a family like mine, I’d recommend getting one where they won’t all fit in together at one time.

Email us your quEriEs for unclE TG... [email protected]

Which is the car you hate the worst? Kiran I’d find it simpler to tell you which car I hate the best.

TG

Picks

Gadgets

new Year gifting done right Don’t know what to hanD to your loveD ones on nye? let us help

OnePlus 3T OnePlus had hit it out of the park with the 3. Yes, certain things could’ve been better, and OP has been listening. In the matter of a few months, the 3T arrived. It’s the same package as the 3 (which it replaces), but with the new Snapdragon 821 chipset, a 16MP front camera and a marginally bigger battery (3,400mAh beats 3,000mAh), all for an extra ` 2,000. Probably the most sensible smartphone buy at the moment. TG recommends: 64GB `29,999

CAnOn POwerShOT G7 X MArk II now in its second generation, Canon’s PowerShot G7 X Mark II digicam is a gift that’ll be welcomed by both beginners as well as pro photographers. Features include a sizeable 1-inch sensor, a fast image processor, a tilting display, a versatile zoom lens with large aperture and smartphone connectivity. TG recommends: Buying one `40,995

PeBBle TIMe STeel The only smartwatch that makes sense and looks good. even with its minimalistic design, it looks ace, is refreshingly simple and lasts a long time on a single charge. You should probably get one while it’s still available – Fitbit’s impending acquisition of Pebble may kill off the Time Steel range. TG recommends: Black - the red one is awful `15,999 TOPGeAr.COM

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Aravind KP was a jubilant man when TVS Racing asked him to suit up for Dakar. But his real journey to Dakar began only after his rigorous training regime kickstarted in . Here’s what followed, truly helping him...

...hone his skills wOrds: Devesh shobha

hree countries. 9,000 kilometres. 4,000km of special stages. One marathon stage. A total of 13 days with a day to rest. That’s the cruel Dakar Rally in a nutshell – the greatest and the toughest rally-raid event known to mankind. It’s also the second-biggest motor racing event in the world with around 77 per cent notoriety rate, losing out only to Formula 1. It’s an event that separates the men from the boys and in some cases, transforms boys into men. And our very own Aravind KP believes that after conquering every motocross and rally-raid event in India, he’s got what it takes to face the animal that is the Dakar. That he is ecstatic at being a part of the Sherco-TVS Factory Rally team would be an understatement, but the 32-year-old rider also comprehends that the Dakar, although a dream come true for him, is a huge responsibility on his shoulders. KP understands that if he has to survive his

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most gruelling test on two wheels, he needs to up his game by a couple of notches. And in the run up to Dakar, he pledges he’s done the best within his ability to prepare himself for the big test. Over the last four months, he’s had to change his approach, his riding style and most importantly, his temperament to better understand the requirements of Dakar. How did he do that, you ask? Here’s a lowdown. Since September 2016, KP has undergone rigorous training not only on his home turf but also in and Spain. David Casteu, team manager, Sherco-TVS Factory Rally team, had charted out a

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photography: TVS-Sherco

military-grade regime for KP alongside his teammate Joan Pedrero, a Dakar veteran and Adrien Metge, former Honda rider. And under the watchful eyes of Casteu, KP’s fitness regime, in his own words, “has been stepped up by four to five notches” where he’s had to do about 65km of cycling a day, around six hours of Enduro riding (compared to two in the past) and almost 10 hours of road book training – something he’d never done before. Okay, he didn’t do it all in one day; it was a well chalked out regime – KP’s Enduro training took place in Nimes, along with Adrien, and while training for road book, they would go Pedrero in the Spanish deserts where 500km-long road books awaited them. However, KP asserts that although the training programme helped him hone his

Rocky terrain is something KP hates the most. And if given a choice, he would prefer riding the dunes all day long

skills, for an event like Dakar, “no matter how prepared you think you are, it’s definitely not enough.” KP placed a lot of emphasis on getting on top of the road books, and so did the Sherco boss, Thomas Teissier. “Understanding road book is important as getting lost in the deserts is not an option and it can be very dangerous.” And unlike rallying in India, where there’s a GPS that always shows you an actual route, in Dakar, the GPS only shows the riders where their waypoints are. “So, when a rider is getting closer to a particular waypoint, the GPS comes on, it collects the waypoint and goes off. All that the rider is left with is his understanding of the road book and his fighter instincts,” adds Thomas. From covering a maximum of 2600km

in the Indian rally-raids, the 9,000km Dakar is a huge jump and KP has had to alter his riding style that would help him stay on his RTR 450 for more than eight hours at a stretch. However, according to the TVS rider, that’s not what his main challenge is going to be. “Riding for 800km a day is easy, but navigation is not and that is my biggest challenge going into the Dakar”, says KP. However, KP has got a hang of it and that was evident in the Rally of Morocco, the final testing bed for riders before heading out for the big one. The Oilibya Rally is also considered to be the trickiest of all as far as navigation goes and considering KP finished a fine 26th overall, it’s a testament of how his extensive road book training has made him a better rider. “Morocco was my first rally that required me to navigate, and to my surprise, it went really well. I thought I would get lost more often, but I managed to cross the finish line almost not losing my way other than twice”, KP declared. In fact, Thomas was quite astonished by KP’s maiden navigation rally performance, “We’ve had a good result in Morocco – KP’s first-ever navigation rally – and it was quite good to be honest to finish 17th in the category. It was a pleasant surprise. KP has improved a lot and I’m sure he will improve further as he wants to learn and he understands that it is a big challenge for him.” Apart from being physically fit, for an event that goes on for 12 days, one needs to be in a good mental shape as well. “The first week goes all okay, claims Thomas, but it’s the second week that is really, really hard. You can be good friends at the beginning of the race, but after being together for more than a week, it’s hard.” That’s where KP’s cool demeanour comes into play. As Arvind Pangaonkar, Head of TVS Racing, proudly states, “KP

Aravind is one of my finest riders. Yes, he has grit and ion, but more than that, KP is a fantastic chap. He gets along with everybody; he is people-friendly and doesn’t come with any baggage”. And when you have such a team member who isn’t complicated, always ready to learn new things and open for , there’s a positive vibe in the team, which according to Thomas, is “paramount for a team’s success”. It’s been four months since TVS Racing first let David Casteu take Aravind under his wing and the former Dakar champion has definitely helped KP find his true potential. Aravind agrees he now has more muscle strength, has developed a lot more stamina, and with the help of meditation, he is in a much better mental state that before. And that should help him focus on day-long stages where a single second of losing focus can end the run. On January 2, 2017, around 320 vehicles across five classes will take their positions at the starting line in Asunción, Paraguay, but not all would be fortunate enough to make it to the finish line on January 14. And that’s something KP is fully aware of. “I’m not a believer of unrealistic thoughts. I know how hard the Dakar is going to be. So, my goal this year is to learn the whole nature of the rally and set benchmarks for myself. My plan is to take every day as it comes, and learn and try to do better than the previous day. The realistic goal is to be on the good part of finishing with the best performance I can give.” So as they say, ‘to finish first, you need to first finish’. And in an event like the Dakar, which can crack even the toughest of nuts, it would be a huge achievement and a morale booster for KP to cross that finish line in his first outing. If he manages to do that, he would be a wiser man the morning after.

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PLAY

You bring together a beautiful sedan and a stunning destination. The result is a holiday that ensconces you in the good life 051

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Seat and ride comfort so good, you’ll be relaxed at the end of even a 10-hour drive

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ver have one of those days when you want to just chuck everything and get away? From the busy confines of your office, the traffic-packed roads of your city to some place where the roads are empty and the scenery, breathtaking. Some prefer to go back packing, some like hiking, some like to go thrash around an SUV in some muddy river. However, there are those who want an adventure and at the same time, not compromise on the comforts in life. Follow a beaten path but in their own, unique way. Hyundai Elantra owner Shadab Kamal is one such individual. An actor by profession, Shadab also enjoys driving, especially on out-of-town trips. And when he recently decided to take a short break and head to the coastal paradise of Goa, the transition from in front of the camera to behind the wheel of the new Hyundai Elantra was an easy one. So, all it took was packing a small bag, tanking up on diesel and coffee, and sedan and actor were on their way. Enroute, there was a rather important decision to be made – where to stay at the beach state. When one likes the good things in life, one doesn’t compromise on comfort. So just any old shack on the beach wouldn’t do. After some research over a quick breakfast on the outskirts of Pune, Shadab decided on his destination – Vivanta by Taj at Fort Aguada. And to make sure that he could reserve a room in time, he called in for a booking even as Pune quickly disappeared in the rear-view mirror. Brilliantly, the Elantra’s Android Auto-compatible infotainment system makes hands-free calling an easy task, without ever taking one’s hands off the steering wheel. And those speakers belt out some serious quality sound. The journey to Goa was uneventful enough and given the Elantra diesel’s strong 126bhp and 260Nm from the 1.6-litre oil burner, it was in rather good time too. And the supple ride and comfortable seats meant Shadab was in good nick even after a 10-hour drive. Arriving in Goa, navigating the roads that snaked over hills, through paddy fields, along the shimmering coastline, Shadab knew this was exactly the kind of luxury holiday he needed. And that feeling was only reinforced when he drove in through the gates of the stunning Taj property. As he had arrived in the evening, just as the sun had slid past the horizon, the order of the day was simply to relax after the long drive and there was no better place to do that at than the hotel’s picturesque front courtyard. The dying light spread out from the distance, bathing Goa in magical twilight. After that, it was time to call it a day in one of the hotel’s beautiful villas. Next day, the friendly staff pointed him towards some local attractions and offered to have someone drive him around, presuming he’d be tired from all the driving day before. But Shadab wouldn’t have any of it. Exhaustion would be a problem for those in less comfortable cars. The Elantra has ive, wellbolstered and ventilated seats. Moreover, the Elantra’s ease of handling ensured that he found it as easy to drive on the narrow streets of Goa as he did on the highway. Be it traffic congestion or tight, twisty roads, the Elantra handled it all well and good.

‘When you’re used to the good things in life, luxury is not just something you choose. It comes naturally’

The Portuguese-style villas look from a different century but they have all modern amenities

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‘Vacations mean impulsive stops, inspired photos and unscheduled meals’

Plush interiors with all the entertainment options you’d want

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Shadab had made a list of places he simply had to visit. First off was the St Hyacinthi Cathedral on the island of Sao Jacinto near Panjim. After that, he stopped at a restaurant where he was served some local delicacies. And, of course, which holiday in Goa is complete without a visit to a beach? Now apart from different kind of roads, Shadab also had to go off the tarmac in some places. Although most wouldn’t consider a luxury sedan the ideal vehicle to do this in, the Hyundai Elantra’s ground clearance, which ensures rough roads are easily tackled, also lets one keep the car’s belly well clear of irregularities off road. As much as he had stuck to his plan for the day, how is it a holiday if you do everything according to plan? So, there were obviously pit stops made to snap off the odd picture at a particularly captivating borough or glade. Or to ire the architecture of an old house made in the Portuguese fashion of the colonial era. Or to enjoy sipping on a tender coconut by a quiet little rivulet. It’s not really easy for someone who hasn’t been there before to get used to Goa’s roads. But for Shadab,

even though it was his first time on the Konkan coast, figuring out directions was a cinch. The pre-loaded maps on the infotainment system made it easy for him to find his way around. It even gave him reminders when the car was running low on fuel and displayed pumps along the route. Heading back to Fort Aguada, Shadab discovered some of the other facilities on offer at the hotel. The spa for instance and the restaurant at the Holiday Village. Next day, he decided to spend some more time exploring the property. Spread across a humongous 42 acres, there were numerous nooks and crannies that had their own unique personality. Providing the perfect background for the stylish Hyundai Elantra. Finally, when it was time to leave and head back to the chaos of the daily grind, Shadab had been rejuvenated by the luxurious comforts of the vacation. Both the Hyundai Elantra and Goa had sured his expectations. And the best part? There was still the 600-odd-km of highways before he had to give up the keys to the Elantra.

Photography: Aditya Bengali | Location courtesy: Vivanta by Taj, Fort Aguada, Goa

ment feature

Arabian might The first-ever mainstream SUV from Italy is named after a wind from the east. To the Emirates with the Levante then Words: Srir Am NAr AyANAN

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MaSEraTI LEVanTE S

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nd it happened. I could see frantic activity in my rear view mirror as the convoy of Maserati Levantes was broken. The lead car ahead of me took a U-turn to rush to the spot I was looking at through my rear view mirror. Sunset was a couple of hours away and we were amongst sand dunes on the outskirts of Dubai. And one of the Levantes in a bunch of about eight got stranded in the sand. I was surprised it didn’t happen earlier. Because this isn’t a Land Cruiser or a Land Rover or a Wrangler. This is a Maserati SUV. A company that’s never made SUVs before. Its parent company, Fiat, has never made SUVs before. Its home country – Italy – has never made SUVs before. There have been attempts. By Lamborghini no less. But that first attempt was a failed military prototype called the Cheetah which couldn’t climb up inclines because of a 5.9-litre V8 mounted at the rear and that lead to the LM002, a civilian abomination reeking of power and a 290-litre fuel tank that’d empty out an Arab oil well before you could say Arab oil well. The Maserati looks like a big hatch, has impressive details in the front, the rear looks plain and it fulfills the checklist of looking like a posh SUV. Not one you’d take dune bashing, desert scrounging, ditch negotiating or boulder crunching. But I did. I could easily drive up and down steep inclines, saunter through a windy desert with shifting sand, and the artificial boulder surface gave the Levante’s wheel articulation prowess a thorough workout. But with one of the Levantes beached in the sand, I thought to myself, they’d finally bring in a tractor to tow it out. But I had doubts that the arid UAE has any agriculture to use any tractors. Land Cruisers, then? Well no. It seemed what was going to rescue the stranded Levante was, well, a Levante. Now, that’s like sending a sloth into water to rescue a sloth drowning in water. But it took five minutes for Levante to tow out Levante with a rope. And none of the cars had special tyres or special off-road packages. Only traction control was switched off, the Offroad mode was activated, the air-suspension was raised to maximum height and tyres were deflated to about 20psi from 35 before all the Levantes treaded over the Arabain desert. All it needed was a steady foot on the throttle and the Levante was bashing dunes in a way that would make the Land Cruiser or Pajero proud. But be unsure, wonder what’s on the other side, get weak-kneed and stop on a sandy-slope, and the Levante would get beached. Not that I am a dune-bashing pro, but I managed to not get myself stuck and in fact, was enjoying some moments of hooliganism

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MaSEraTI LEVanTE S

The voluptuous curves hide bulk well. Sharply raked rear eats into boot space though

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Ph oTo Gr aPhy: mANufAc Tur er

throwing up curtains of sand all around my Levante with traction control off and the SUV swaying its tail like a snake chasing its prey. On the road, I did find the size of the steering wheel – like in the Quattroporte and the Ghibli – a bit too large. Especially in the desert, where I had to frantically turn the steering lock to lock quickly to keep me from facing the direction I didn’t want to be facing. So much so, the videographer from Maserati who had clipped a GoPro near my Levante’s wheel was rather happy. “With all that sliding and sand you are throwing around, the footage is going to look the business,” he said. Obviously, if it’s raining and surfaces are slushy, or if there is deep snow, I doubt the Levante is going to cause much concern to a Wrangler or a Defender. But on that day when the shifting sands were casting their own shadow on a cold, windy desert, the Maserati Levante, with the right driver, seemed unstoppable. Back on tarmac, the Levante has an excellent soundtrack for a turbo. It doesn’t have a smartshifting dual-clutch gearbox, but in Sport mode, the engine’s extremely eager to rev and the transmission is as spontaneous as a drum of kerosene lit with an ignited match. There’s a cultured, mature roar from the exhaust rather than the boomy cacophony of sound that comes from turbo engines these days. Oh, the Levante is turbo-ed alright. But it revs to a nice 7000+rpm and lets out a nice, deep grunt when it upshifts. Maserati says the Levante competes with the Porsche Cayenne. Though in size, it seems closer to the Macan, it’s actually about 150mm longer than the Cayenne. But the voluptuous curves hide a lot of the bulk and the sharply raked rear glass does eat into some boot space. There’s ample leg room in the rear, but the Levante seems more a comfortable four- rather than five-seater. Is it sportier and a better handler than the Porsche twins? No. Don’t expect any ifs and buts. The Levante is rather good. In my time with it around the Dubai Autodrome, the Levante handled like no SUV should. But around the sharpest of bends and if you take it to the extremes of its dynamic ability, the Levante does show its weight and height with lean, body roll and a bit too much play in the steering. It’s more fun than a standard BMW X5, for instance, and I’d be very curious to know how it compares to the Jag F-Pace, though that’s smaller and will most probably be cheaper. But the Levante is surely a notch below the Porsches for pure track composure. The Levante is a bit like a 4G internet connection over a poor network area compared

finely crafted leather, signature branding, all the luxury touches are there

The steering really is a little too large. Not the best for urgent turning manoeuvres

MaSEraTI LEVanTE S

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Maserati Levante s expected: april 2017 estimated price: `1 crore engine: 2979cc V6 turbo petrol Power: 430bhp at 5750rpm Torque: 580nm at 1750rpm Transmission: 8a aWD 0-100kph: 5.2 secs (claimed) Top speed: 264kph Weight: 2109kg Pros: Engine note, transmission, ride, handling, off-road and desert cred cons: Steering too large, could do with more feel Bottomline: a proper and competent luxury SUV with equal on and off-road ability

to the Porsche’s wired, consistent, broadband. This 3.0-litre turbo V6 may or may not make it to India. It exactly measures 2979cc, which means, as a direct import that’s a petrol under 3 litres, this variant will have to be separately homologated. What will surely make it here is the 3.0-litre diesel, which will be a simple, expensive import. And when here, the Levante will surely overtake the Quattroporte as the largest-selling Maserati in India. The Levante is a great SUV, but still a bit measured as a Maserati. It has to toe the fine line between being an outright exotic to being somewhat of an everyday vehicle that meets pollution, efficiency and other such dreary norms and doesn’t have much room for quirks and character. Despite which, it does have some – the steering is too large, the touchscreen interface, while massively improved, is still not the best in-car interface in the business, and its engine, transmission and road dynamics are way above par. Just not up to the Porsches. But with a setting sun, a day out on track, trenches, boulders and the Arabian desert, one thing’s for sure. Maserati isn’t messing about with its first-ever SUV. But I’d really like it to stand up to Porsche. It can. It has all the potential to. Perhaps, a GTS with a V8…

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back in business

It has taken a generation change but BMW has put money where its mouth is Words: girish k arker a

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NEW BMW 5 SERIES

‘once in a while, it is good to shake up the system thoroughly’ with the E12 5-series (and the likes of the 528 pictured on these pages), India did not see the official sale of the 5-series until the fifth-generation E60 model – infamous for its designers’ departure from the BMW way - arrived on the scene. Two generations later, the 5-series does manage to look fresh although it does not break any design barriers or ‘shake up the system’. It now looks similar to the bigger 7-series, which may fool you into thinking that nothing much has changed. Park it next to the previous 5, and you’ll notice how much the front has changed. The kidney grille now stretches all the way to the headlamps, which themselves have become wider and the chrome brow on the grille aligns with the DRL on the headlamps. The front bumper is more pronounced with larger rectangular fog lamp recesses, compared to the slimmer ones on the older car. The silhouette is similar but the roof has been pulled further down at the rear – more

PhoToGr aPhy: manufac turer

No, I am not making any reference to our government’s ‘demonitisation’ programme but what this does is make people stand up and take notice. Six years ago, BMW did that when it made the 5-series go softer in a bid to be ‘more mainstream’ in the vast expanse of luxury sedans that now extended beyond core Europe. Asia to be specific. The subtle mid-life update only made matters worse as the 5-series now stood as a distant relative of the machines that play with phrases like “ultimate driving machine” and “sheer driving pleasure”. The 5-series is an important cog in the BMW juggernaut. One of the longestselling cars to come out of Munich, it is also one of the most popular. Second only to the smaller and more affordable 3-series in of sheer numbers sold globally, the 5 even climbs to the top spot in certain countries, like India. For us, this is the third-generation change. While the story began in 1972

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Don’t be fooled by the grim expression, it’s just stage fright. New 5 is actually fun

To say the new 5 has highway poise will be an understatement

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NEW BMW 5 SERIES

coupe like. There is a prominent crease running along the shoudler line too. Rear tail-lights are homogenous rather than the two-part piece on the outgoing model. The last 5-series had generous proportions on the outside. The new car has grown but you would hardly notice without an actual measuring tape. But designers have been able to free up more space for rear engers and also for their luggage in the boot. This should bode well for the chauffeur-driven breed. More importantly, what engineers have done is reduce the weight of the car. Massively. Clever design and lots of aluminium and magnesium coupled with high-strength steel has made it as much as 100kg lighter than its predecessor in certain trims. Cleverly, expensive carbon fibre has been left out, instead, lighter metal alloy and clever design has helped. What is also clever is the interior that has been completely re-done. Apart from freeing up more space, the new 5 gets an all-new dashboard. Major change here is that the iDrive display has now been moved from the centre to the top of the dashboard. And it is a touchscreen. A nice one too with a phone-like tactile feel and interface. BMW has made sure that every successive iDrive system has improved and it has got this one right too. The leather, wood and overall finish in this European-spec car featured here looks top notch. I hope BMW India can replicate this too. At its global launch in February next year, the new 5-series will come with two petrol – 530i and 540i – and two diesel – 520d and 530d – engines. Except for the

base 520d, all will be mated to an eightspeed automatic transmission. There will be xDrive (all-wheel-drive) versions too. India will get only the rear-wheel-drive 530d to start with. At its global unveil in Lisbon, Portugal where we drove this car, BMW also revealed its plan of unleashing the top-of-the-line M550i xDrive a couple of months later. On the saner side, there will be a plug-in petrol-electric hyrbid as well. No plans of getting either of the latter duo to India, right away though. The 520d would also not cut it because the RWD version is currently planned

‘The 5 has grown but you won’t notice without a measuring tape’ only with a manual gearbox. So, let’s talk about the 530d instead. It’s the same six-cylinder, 3.0-litre unit as in the bigger 7-series. To elaborate, the engine hardware is the same but everything else has been modified to suit this smaller 5. BMW rates the peak power here at 262bhp. It’s one of the smoothest diesel engines we have ever encountered. There is very little of the typical diesel clatter or even vibrations. And it builds power seamlessly with the help of twin

new vs Old

The 540i will be the top-of-the-line petrol on launch. It has some serious power and agility. Compare that to the first-gen BMW 5-series, which surprisngly had some of those too, in its own way. We got behind the wheels of a 524 and immediately realised why BMWs are first to spring to mind when we think of performance and driving agility. The steering wheel was spindly but precise as a surgical intrument, the seats were plush and the all-round visibility would put any modern car to shame. Of course, it helped that BMW Heritage, the classic car arm, had kept it in top shape – enough to transport us back in time while taking on the wet, twisty country roads outside of Lisbon. The car pictured here has a 2.8-litre, inline six with a healthy 163bhp capable of taking the car to a top speed of 198kph. The car came with a four-speed automatic and even had a sun-roof. All this, way back in 1975.

Massively improved interiors – roomier and doesn’t try to look grey and boring

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BMW 5-SerieS Engine: 530d xDrive: 2993cc, V6, diesel, 8A, 262bhp, 620Nm, 5.4s, 250kph, 1715kg Dimensions: LxWxH: 4936x2126x1479mm Wheelbase: 2975mm Tyres: 225/55 R17 Boot space: 530 litres Fuel tank: 66 litres Pros: Engine/gearbox, features, space, ride Cons: Doesn’t set a steering-feel benchmark Verdict: Nothing like classic BMWs but so much better than the model it replaces in practically every possible way.

Engineers have given the 530d a sharper steering but the new 5 isn’t exactly alive in this guise

5-sEriEs vs rivals e-Class

Will feel the heat considering the 5 aces ride and interiors. But a new E is expected soon.

Jaguar XF

The only one now that can possibily take the fight to BMW when it comes to driving pleasure.

Audi A6

The only reason to buy this one would be for the petrol engines and four-wheel-drive ability.

Volvo S90

The underdog but a sorted limo that could make the BMW and the rest look overpriced.

NEW BMW 5 SERIES

‘It breaks the norm. We expected the 5 to be more limo and less BMW’ turbos. What helps is the large helping of torque - 620 Newton metres, if you will. All this makes the new 5-series a rather nimble limo to push if you feel the urge. Cross-country trips should be effortless. The dash to 100kph from standstill is a claimed 5.7s for the RWD version. Bottomline for someone interested in a BMW is driving pleasure. Of course, the new 5 isn’t going back to being a BMW of the last decade when it comes to driving abilities but it should bode well for the Indian audience. The steering isn’t that heavy that you have aching arms at the end of a rush hour journey to and fro from office. On the limit, it keeps things calm. The steering is a tad over-assisted but we are nitpicking here considering how critical we get when it comes to rating a BMW’s steering feel. Maybe some other manufacturer would have got a pat on the back if it could manage the sort of driving feel as in the new 5. The car is loaded with tech including among other wizardry, driving modes – Sport, Comfort and Eco Pro. The road surface in Portugal is only marginally

better than most of urban India and we pretty much got away riding in Sport mode all day. Says a lot about how BMW engineers are getting the setup right on cars that need to be used everyday on roads other than autobahns. Speaking of practicality, the 530d is now 12 per cent more efficient than the outgoing model. While the European test figure is an unachievable 21kpl, expect it to be half in Indian real-world conditions. Which means the car should go for about 500-550km of mixed city and highway use on a full tank of diesel. The new 5-series carries a whole lot of gizmos, enough to interest even the most tech-crazed among you. It can change lanes on its own, brake and even correct steering inputs to keep the car in the lane. The four-wheel-drive models get fourwheel steer too where the rear wheels point in the opposite direction as front wheels at low speeds to take tight corners better and in the same direction at high speeds to give better control. You can even park it with the help of its remote key while standing outside the car. If you want a crisp-handling BMW, the new 5-series won’t exactly rock your boat. Try the 3, in that case. Nevertheless, it isn’t a slouch and won’t leave you high and dry if you take a fast curve or flick the car through quick lane changes. In those , the new 5-series breaks the norm – we expected the car to be softer and skewed more towards being a limo and less BMW. Thankfully, someone decided to shake us up on that. Only this time, we don’t think anyone’ll be complaining.

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Leap of

faith

FRANK SCHLOeDeR

Frank has taken his love for India to a whole new level. He married an Indian lady, and rushed from the launch of the refreshed 3GT to be home in time for karva chauth.

or difficult was it for him to adapt to the added In the expanse of his office, Frank Schloeder pressure, is what I ask him next. leans back against a cabinet to pose for Rohan’s “It was a smooth transition. I’ve been Canon. Frank is a tall man (six-foot-three), so here for three years already and as part of the even in that position, he towers over us both. As management team in a relatively small company, Rohan pauses to check his frame, Frank reaches you’re involved in most things. So, I was aware out for a photo frame sitting on the cabinet and of all topics – the dealer network, how the breaks into a smile looking at it. customer mindset is and so on. Moving to the “This is from a team meeting in 2002. I’ve next level was of course a challenge because been with BMW for almost 20 years. I started as there were a lot of new things but on the other an intern in BMW in 1996, but I’ve been side, I knew the market, I knew the dealers, the attached to the brand since I was a kid. My father business, and therefore, it was relatively quick. has owned every generation of the 3-series and I There were areas such as, say, aftersales, where grew up in a BMW environment.” I had to put in a lot of my personal time to learn, And he never stepped out of that “BMW because it was all new to me.” environment”, as he puts it. Having started from The getting-to-grips with aftersales was the lowest rung in the organisation, Frank has particularly fruitful, as Frank dug deep, spent practically tells me. his entire career working “Aftersales was an with one company and is now interesting thing to do, leading it in one of the biggest because I realised how good markets in the world. we already are in that area. I Not for a moment would think proper customer service you think the man has been is the foundation of being able thrust into a role he was to do business in any country. unprepared for – seated It is important to think of it behind a large oakwood desk from end-to-end.” in his room, Frank seems How has life changed after completely at ease in his new the change in designation, I’m space. His business card may curious to know next. specify President (act.), but “Not so much, actually, Frank’s focus makes that because I still go to the same suffix look temporary. office every day. The route “In September 2013, I came Yes, that’s the TopGear award is the same, the kind of work to India as head of marketing. BMW won for ‘Design of the Year’ with the i8 in 2014 is similar – it’s not like I was And since May, I’ve had put in a completely different the opportunity to lead the environment. Of course, it’s exciting because company since. Exciting journey so far, exciting suddenly, you’re in the focus of everything, and country, full of colours, potential and stories, you have to take decisions and you cannot rely and I’ve enjoyed my journey so far very much.” on anyone else. But I enjoy that very much and I My first question to him is painfully obvious: think I’m bringing added value to the business did he see the promotion coming? as well. I’m very pragmatic in my approach.” “Not really. It was not something I expected, Frank replaced Philipp von Sahr, who steered and it’s also not normal practise in BMW, but of the BMW India ship for three years, and as course, I feel very proud and happy to have been Frank says, out of choppy waters. given this opportunity. It’s a big responsibility “Philipp von Sahr had to navigate the and there’s a lot to be done. But we know very company through difficult times where, back in clearly where we want to go and what we want to 2013, we realised the business was not going in do and I feel quite comfortable in my role.” the right direction. The foundation had changed To see it coming is one thing, to be able to with the rupee depreciating so much and other repay the faith, completely another. How easy TOPGEAR.cOm

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photo gr aphy: ROhAN DAYAl

Till April 2016, FrAnk Schloeder wAS direcTor oF MArkeTing AT BMw indiA. TodAy, he iS AcTing preSidenT, And while The word preceding hiS joB TiTle underlineS The TeMporAry nATure oF hiS poSiTion, he TellS AMAAn AhMed he’S here To go The diSTAnce

TG’s amaan ahmed, a biker himself, was excited to hear that Frank was more a Motorrad guy

factors that led to us not making money in the country. As a businessman, you cannot let that go on. Philipp and his team – I was part of it – I think we dealt with it successfully. Now we’re really back into it and we’re clocking a growth rate of over 20 per cent in a market environment that is not very favourable at the moment, while most of our competitors are going down. So, I think we’re confident about our way forward.” Like most other company heads, Frank, too, isn’t happy with how difficult life in India is becoming for luxury car makers. “We need a stable environment. We could do without surprises like the diesel ban last year or sudden tax hikes that come overnight in an industry that requires heavy investments. You cannot change an investment overnight. You have to have stability over here and a predictable future. With the GST, things are going in the right direction. Unfortunately, right now, there are discussions that luxury products may still be taxed higher. It would’ve been a good opportunity to lower our tax burden a little bit and allow the market to grow, because today it is only 1 per cent of the total car market in India, while it is about 10 per cent on the worldwide average and 5 per cent in China. We’d be willing to invest even more to grow our business but of course, the tax burden has to reduce to make our cars a little more affordable. It would be in the benefit of everyone including the government who would earn more money by

collecting taxes on higher volume basis.” Frank also details how petrol engines are back and are here to stay. “When the diesel ban discussion started almost a year ago, we told our HQ that we have to go for petrol. It’s a decision that takes more than a year to be implemented because we have to set up a second line for engine assembly and adjust product planning and that can’t happen overnight. The clear intention is to have petrol available across the range and in all derivatives.” I want to confirm a fact that has gone unnoticed for far too long: is the 3-series Gran Turismo BMW India’s highest-selling product? Frank’s answer isn’t surprising. “It was, until the launch of the X1. The GT has, in less than two years, become a big pillar of our product portfolio. None of our competition has anything in that segment.” Speaking of competition, Mercedes-Benz is flooding the market with cars. I ask Frank if BMW deliberately keeps the number of launches down. “I don’t think we’re launching less cars than our competitors. We have had a huge model initiative worldwide over the last five years where we have strongly increased our product offering. We’re still launching at the same pace, model after model, but always with due care. Each time you launch an additional car, you also have to be aware of the complexity you’re creating... at the plant, the dealership, in the whole logistics chain and also in the eyes of the customer. It’s not our intention to add one model after the other, it’s more important to have the right model for the market.” Which BMW sub-brand does he see with more potential in India: M or i? “With M, the excitement around the brand is big. On the other hand, i appeals to a completely different audience. i is the spearhead of the future of electric mobility, and is equally important for India because if you look at pollution levels, it’s a big problem.” But the only i car in India at present is the i8, within the reach of only a handful, I tell Frank. He says it’s a start – and that i can prosper, but not without help from the authorities. “You have to start somewhere. You have to start with a dream, a vision, and the i8 embodies the dream that is possible with the technology.

It’s not a thing that exists only on paper. It’s reality. Once you’ve drawn that picture, you can go down to more affordable segments. We have a broad range of electric cars and plug-in hybrids, and I’d be happy to bring them to India, but it has to make economic sense as well. We are in discussions with the government to have GST rate advantages for electric cars and plug-in hybrids. Without advantages, nobody will buy

Up, close anD personal

Drives: 6-series Gran Coupe

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Wants: M4/M6 Gran Coupe

TOPGEAR.cOm

Dreams: 3.0 CSL ‘Batmobile’

ires: Ferrari and Porsche

FRANK AKitO tACHibANA SCHLOeDeR

Going ahead, schloeder is confident but its BMW will need government

these products because the technology is very expensive and the customer will only pay for something that provides a functional benefit at the end of the day. He will not pay more for environment-friendly tech.” Frank loves motorcycles, and its that deep down, he’s actually more Motorrad than automobiles. “I started riding more than 10 years ago. The first bike I purchased was an R 1200 GS and took it to the Alps. I’ve not done it yet in India – in Delhi, it’s a bit tough with the traffic, but I’m waiting for Motorrad to come and then I will start riding again. I love naked bikes. The R1200R, or the RnineT, these are the models I’d want to ride.” Only fitting, then, that he will also lead BMW Motorrad in India, which he says will commence operations in the first half of 2017. All that’s well and good, but everyone is keen to know if BMW will go for volumes with the white-hot new G 310

“We have one guiding principle in the BMW group – we only do products. This will be true for Motorrad as well, when it arrives here in 2017”

R. Frank’s reply is in the negative. “We have one guiding principle in the BMW group: whatever we do, we only do products. We always have lower volumes and higher prices. This is going to be true for Motorrad as well, and you can expect the same with the G 310 R, even if it’s in the lower segment, it will still command a over comparable bikes in that segment.” Towards the end of our chat, Frank tells me he’s big on tech, how marrying an Indian girl has given him a whole new perspective on life and culture in India, and how the cricket and Bollywood bug hasn’t bitten him so far. So, I want to know: what is Frank’s idea of a perfect weekend? A ride to the mountains, perhaps? “That is one of the big plans. To go to the Himalayas, into the mountains. I love skiing. I plan to go to Gulmarg for skiing. Unfortunately there’s never enough time for that. But riding the R 1200 GS to the Himalayas sounds good, no?” TOPGEAR.cOm

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Gti

in sheep’s clothing In a culture that equates hatchbacks with ‘cheap’ and ‘practical’, the VW Polo GTI sticks out like a sore thumb, and it should. Here’s an everyday hatch with special powers Words: Debabr ata Sark ar / photogr aphy: HimanSHu PanDya

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VW Polo GTI

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VW Polo GTI

t has been a hunt for the most serpentine of roads all day. I’m following pointers from motorcycle riders and cyclists, because you know they’re just better at this sort of thing. Charging through scattered villages and village ways shaded by tamarind trees, the kind that have been around long enough to form seamless arches with their twins on the other side. Surprisingly, though, the roads have remained good. Well marked, little traffic and smooth surfaces have kept us entertained, although the speed-breakers keep reappearing to mark every village and they need to be dealt with carefully. Why? Well, this isn’t any old Polo now, is it? This is the GTI and it is out on a hunt for a drive that will at least tickle its capabilities, if not more. In case you’re still confused, look closely. It has two doors, is lower, despite the bigger wheels and therefore, cannot ride over ostrich eggs, like the Polo you’re used to seeing. But that isn’t all that is different about this Polo. Yes, there’s a big red strap that flows across the front of the car that almost immediately catches your eye, there are bigger wheels with considerably more rubber wrapped around them, a contrast spoiler at the top of the hatch and a double-barrel exhaust, apart from all the GTI logos. It sounds like a long list, but these aren’t immediately apparent. It’s easy to mistake the GTI

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red stitching, flat-bottom wheel: this isn’t the commoner’s (read upper middle classer’s) Polo

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‘The GTI has Two doors, Is lower – despITe The bIGGer wheels – and Therefore, can’T rIde over osTrIch eGGs’

for a regular Polo, apart from the side, where the two-door configuration catches your attention. And, of course, there’s the low hum it emits at idle, which can also be easy to miss, given everyone’s tendency to drive with their windows up. There’s plenty of red stitching inside the cabin and a proper flat-bottom steering wheel with a prominent GTI logo to reassure you that you’re seated inside something special. Also special are the heavily bolstered front seats to hold you in place while the GTI runs around sniffing out corners. We’d managed to sneak out through little village roads on the outskirts of Chennai and were soon on the broad highway leading to Trichy. As much fun as the narrow, empty country roads were, this was the first real opportunity I’d had to let the GTI’s 189 horses loose. Put your foot down and the seven-speed DSG gearbox is happy to downshift – rather quickly in S mode – and push you back in your seat. It suddenly transforms from a patient highway cruiser into a bit of a flying flea in the matter of a few seconds. There’s a definite shove past 2,500rpm and the engine revs all the way to 6,500rpm, the soundtrack getting better with every ing rev, before it lets out a little cough and the gearbox selects the next cog. It isn’t brash, there aren’t any buttons to make the suspension stiffer or the exhaust louder, but it all works incredibly well topgEar.com

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‘IT Is ThIs undersTaTed mounTaIn of abIlITy ThaT can leave everyone sTarTled when The lIGhTs Go Green’

Red stripe running from one headlight to another is a fantastic design touch

while every other car around you wonders ‘what the hell just happened’. It becomes even more apparent after you take off from standstill; the GTI gets to 100kph in roughly 7 seconds and shows no signs of letting up. Volkswagen claims it’ll better the 200kph mark comfortably and carry on for a bit after that. I can clearly see how. However, it wasn’t the 1.8-litre turbo petrol’s action-packed performance in a straight line that I was out to familiarise myself with. We’ve seen various iterations of it in other cars and remain impressed with it. It is the GTI’s dynamics, thanks to its tweaked suspension and altered running gear that I really wanted to have a go at. I’d had dreams of storming up a hill-climb with tight corners and had been directed to such a road, and with every ing kilometre, I could feel the anticipation grow. Despite the faltering rains, the fields were lush green and the cloud cover ensured pleasant temperatures. Yes, I did have a climate-controlled cabin and a touchscreen-operated entertainment system complete with Bluetooth connectivity, but those weren’t getting any attention at all. The low hum from the exhaust with a little cough to mark every upshift kept me entertained as I stayed on a constant lookout for unmarked speed breakers. The GTI we receive here does not have the option to stiffen the suspension, but it is already firmly sprung and suspension travel is limited. So, in case you miss a flaw on the road surface, the sound that follows is of bones rattling. But, then again, it is a relative blemish on an otherwise impressive report card for the GTI. As I spend more time with the car, I find it easy to imagine it as an everyday ride because, even over the most ridiculous speed breaker we encountered, it never scraped its underbelly once and yes, the noise that emanates after you hit a pothole can be scary, but your eyes won’t pop out of their sockets. Most importantly, it is the fact that it still looks like a Polo with a dash of red smeared across the front that I like best. It is this understated mountain of ability that can leave everyone startled as the lights turn green, that appeals to me the most. For now, though, some terrible news came through and due to the volatility of certain political followers, we had to turn around, just short of the promised road, full of corners and steep inclines. With only a few moments to ponder over my next move, I decide to put the stability control back on for complete effectiveness and stick the transmission in regular ‘D’ to make my way back to some sort of a familiar environment. Just like that, the GTI went back to being a regular Polo and life alongside the roads went into a sort of coma. Before I knew it, eateries were shut, the forever-ready coffee shops had put out their filter pots and petrol pumps had drawn up little barricades to keep people from getting close. The dream of screeching tyres making their way up tight corners were also put out with that. With little fuel to spare, I buckled down and trundled back to the city with the exhaust muted and the fuel consumption even more frugal. Yes, the Polo GTI costs a fair amount of money at `25.99 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), especially for the equipment it comes with and the limited practicality of a two-door, four-seat hatch. It still does offer a full-size boot thanks to a space-saver spare and, if I may say so, has a suspension setup that is forgiving enough for everyday use. And if you change your perspective to think of it as something that’s less flashy, a lot cheaper than a Mini Cooper S and just as quick, it doesn’t sound bad at all, does it?

VW Polo GTI

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VW Polo Gti Price: `25.99 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) engine: 1798cc, turbo petrol, 189bhp, 250Nm, 7A, FWD Performance: 0-100kph: 6.7 seconds, Top speed: 236kph Kerb weight: 1273kg Pros: Understated styling, great handling, brisk performance Cons: low on features, limited practicality, no launch control bottom line: Yes, it is a Polo, but it drives nothing like one (in a good way) and it’s properly quick. Its subtlety is what appeals most.

Ducati MultistraDa 1200 s

It’s complIcated

Ducati says the Multistrada 1200 S is four bikes rolled into one. But while testing this sport-tourer’s alter egos, we find out there’s more to it than just that. Words: Christopher Chaves photogr aphy: a shutosh varMa

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Ducati MultistraDa 1200 s

fitments. re aren’t stock and you see he st de respectable si a r at de at oa br with the se d An in . is il ng th ni , or ke m bi It’s a tall over that high ta cold winter s been , swinging a leg early ha t’s 6:30am on a nd ng og ou hi gr tc sm e re of th st r al off ye 825mm dense la a bit of casu st ju an e and th th e rs south Delhi. A or om ba sm n fr gh handle section require this part of tow as I palm the hi on ’ ve so ‘in ha hovering over as to ed t at ed Bu se . os s like I’m e sun is supp in the morning ly posture, it feel ir g fa in e th night before. Th be rid ld ug ht sn ou rig d sh up an able ur ago, so it assume the g It feels comfort risen half an ho poor. The settin ther than on it. ra ns ai ke m bi e re y th lit bi yl e, but visi p aboard. llution Control distinct twin-c bright at this tim moment you ho ttles down to a cent Central Po se re s y kl ith ou gh ic w er n ou qu ng io en or da ct t ot ud quite lo is in conjun The DVT m pollution has hi ly a roar that isn’t stating that air ali. It’s definite r firing up with iw ely alarm te D af tim ed e at Board reports bl un br m an le ru u ce d to label yo n’s capital year, oo tio is rh na th e ou b th hb Fe ig as e highway in in ls ne th ck leve for your ing off down e scenario ba tt se tin in is to S s pr ed 00 e us 12 th t a no d it usually take ultistrad a far cry from clock. Now I’m a daily basis an h grips with the M on uc to is er m e th th e, m at ea ca ith w w im st t ly cl fir e ld air. Bu when we ailand. Th penguin-friend to the blast of co e rg ng Chiang Rai, Th ed la di in us e t e Ri th r. , ge rv rd se ila to e re ha im g st ss a fore me some tim s, is very di n acceleratin ad he ro g w e in en th sk Ev of ta . d g se on e ca ty an d togglin like the conditi itely more knot Ducati, it isn’t th . On the go, I fin aos here is defin s the chill away ready Ducati ep eUrban and ur ke g, n nt in ee ve ur cr ad out into the ch ds To e win s es – Sport, alike. But th ha od it ne m s g hi te. er in ac at m rid w d ur ky an orns to apprecia e the tric for man through the fo ough for greenh io. dia, and these ar ar en In e S, en in pl sc AB m ay ld si rd pl or da be to w an to is here the st Enduro – Indian real u opt to change f in. This is the little tricky if yo a uple of other immersed itsel ts co ge a d It an l . a ro ly practical e Multistrad wheelie cont l, th is ro nt ds co ar modes simply n w to This is home... tio in trac I’m walking at her bike, rid g e ot te cl y ra cy e an or n th trada, ot O d . m an e gh n But th t on the Multis s’ in Italia settings, thou 2016 le response, bu ads ‘many road e tt re th ro e well. m to th as d na 03 s gs an 20 It in er S. in tt w 1200 dilute po damping se s its inception e ge s nc ar an si pe ch d, ap on ve y si ol nl rtai spen mes to which it has ev the Skyhook su her Ducati. It ce oice when it co is unlike any ot s like the right ch ti isn’t exactly el ul down fe s M e e al od di th , m it re e, iteration here, an Su od Urb conditions. gry in Enduro m ad An ke e ro Li os us n. th o traffic, w rio of to va e nd r of built fo mbling on e in stop-a -g getting out partment, rese r than hp, which is fin ie de 0b s gr tive. 10 ok an ac s lo l nd e ro ok ou th lo nt ar in hot action co power to And it even othing like AMS and tr rs on steroids. so ds ps too. d te ai m g ac fin bu I in ar t d ch rid ha an s s w rs rd t ep Bi but ke nt over breake t red nostrils. Bu ia ou pl fla d y its an irl itch st fa to sw ly g is ld in that bo , it’s time to before ow The suspension ight red s towards Jaipur atibr e uc up th D e bit en at a ar id th w nt s up s s sa ha ad en and plea on stiff . The Multi Once the ro tly, the suspensi cuous ust at surrounds us en pi m th qu I ns se s. ey co , se gr on ls e C or ne th g. 8h pa in from to Tour e L-twin’s 15 ith its sleek w th it of ed t l id al ou -s and/ to ab le r gs ss ng ai ba acce robust si you have typical suave and grants me mode for when at magnificently e th bl ce. d e ita an an th e m su a or ith am is rf w fr d th e lively pe ke is fitte red trellis mention that d yet crave som gs e around, our bi an pe t d u, tim or oa yo is Sp -r nd Th ge . off hi , ga rm be ps ’, I en swinga , fog lam or a pillion is ‘added burden and a ulti the crash guards I have none of th a radiator shield rt. Here, the M as e, pa t Enduro pack, so at ng pl ei os m Se sh e ba th d r fo an

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1198cc Dvt Ltwin is the jewel in th is Ducati’s multifaceted crown

looks a d a r t is lt u M ‘this red la f s it h it w w angrier no ost m e h t t o N . s il nostr e does r u s t u b e iv t c attra wd’ o r c e h t m o r f stand out

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Ducati MultistraDa 1200 s

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Ducati MultistraDa 1200 s price: `16.95 lakh (ex-showroom, Maharashtra) engine: 1198cc, liquid-cooled, DVt l-twin, Max power: 158bhp at 9500rpm Max torque: 136Nm at 7500rpm; Chassis: tubular steel trellis frame Gearbox: 6M, Kerb weight: 235kg; seat height: 825 - 845mm Fuel tank: 20 litres tyres: Pirelli scorpion trail ii 120/70, 17-inch (f), Pirelli scorpion trail ii 190/55, 17-inch (r) pros: insane amount of handy riding aids and tech, engine performance, ride comfort, agility Cons: Tyres aren’t the best off road verdict: A tall yet nimble motorcycle that’s good for both touring open highways and commuting to work in traffic-riddled cities. the Multistrada 1200s is one of the best combinations of sport, touring and commuting bikes available today.

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the keyboard to this two-whee led super compu ter

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Pit EDITED BY DEVESH SHOBHA

All you w kno o t d e e n rld o w e h t about orsport of mot d an e then som

CONTENTS

Nico Hulkenberg The Hulk, on his moving on from Force India p087

KP Aravind writes Practice is the word on KP’s mind this month p089

WRC There’s some good and bad news from VW p092

Indians in motorsport How our countrymen fared this month p096

Down to the wire the rivalry between rosberg and hamilton culminates at the season finale. and the result wasn’t the only thing that got people’s jaws on the floor this weekend Niharika Ghorpade 

he season finale at Abu Dhabi saw Nico Rosberg doing enough to snatch the ultimate crown from the reigning champion, Lewis Hamilton. It was a thrilling race that had gone to the wire with Hamilton trying his level best to prevent the title slipping away with a masterclass of controlled driving, trying to hold back Rosberg who was right behind him. It almost worked, with RedBull and Ferrari snapping at Rosberg’s heel. But the German held firm and finally won the season-long battle. It was by far the most exciting event of the year given the stakes involved and also raised a storm of both criticism and for Hamilton’s tactics. Most critics conceded though that the Brit played

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hard but fair under the circumstances. Little did we know at the time that there was another storm brewing. Just as people were starting to speculate how Hamilton would fight back next season came the announcement of Rosberg’s retirement from Formula One. The pressures of fighting Hamilton and others finally got to Rosberg, and the newly crowned world champion took a decision to quit while he was on top. The move has sparked off furious debates about who would eventually fill the seat at Mercedes. Niki Lauda claims half the grid has gotten in touch with him and Ricciardo even cheekily said that someone is going to get an unexpected Christmas present. So, let’s relive the unbelievable finale.

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Formula 1

The new champion

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t Abu Dhabi, with Lewis using every trick in the book, the pressure on the German was the most intense in the entire season. To come back after Hamilton had wiped out his 44-point lead to get ahead by 19 points, showed steely resolve that makes Rosberg a deserving world champion. It is unfortunate that three seasons of battling his childhood rival who has become one of the fastest F1 drivers ever took so much out of Rosberg. But let there be no doubt that had he chosen to stay, Hamilton would’ve had to dig very deep to overcome a relaxed and confident Rosberg. Like his Father Keke, Rosberg was not the fastest driver on the grid, but made the most of his superior machinery, took advantage of Lewis’s mistakes and misfortunes and never allowed others to come close most of the time.

Button’s last race

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part from Nico Rosberg, a former champion seems to also have ended his career at Abu Dhabi. Jenson Button had announced his sabbatical a while ago, but weighing in his options for the future, he hinted at a complete retirement from F1 after a 17-year-long career. McLaren did not throw a farewell, as on paper, it is still a sabbatical and he will be playing the role of a reserve, but it could be a Mika Hakkinen style departure for the Briton.

The Rosberg shock

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t the FIA gala in Vienna, Rosberg announced his retirement because he felt he had achieved what he set out to and wanted to delve into other spheres in life. While some felt the decision to retire while he was at his peak was courageous, others felt he had taken it in haste, and would regret it later as had Mika Hakkinen, and many others. For the newly crowned champion, the idea to retire had started to form when he had virtually bagged the title in Japan, and he decided to inform the team later. However, many in his dedicated personal team have not taken the news too well.

Massa’s farewell

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fter qualifying on Saturday, Williams had a farewell on the rooftop of its hospitality building with journalists, drivers and personnel in the paddock assembled to bid adieu and celebrate the end of Felipe Massa’s 15-year career in F1. Massa’s skills are past their prime and pressure from his replacement Lance Stroll left him and Williams with little choice.

Force India’s 4th

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ith F1 not coming back to the BIC after the 2014 season, an Indian-badged team winning fourth place in the Constructor’s title is the biggest boost the country’s motorsport scenario can get. It’s the highest-ever ranking achieved by a midfield team. The team’s hospitality building saw celebrations galore, and they also bid farewell to one of its longest-serving drivers – Nico Hulkenberg.

Stormy waters at Mercedes

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ast winter, the team had decided to sit down both its drivers and explain the ‘rules of engagement’ on track and sort out their rivalry. There were two clashes in the season and according to Toto Wolff, Lewis created a tense and ‘anarchic’ environment towards the penultimate laps of the race at Abu Dhabi. The Mercedes team boss wanted to immediately consider disciplining his loose cannon over winter. The words ‘sack’ and ‘suspension’ were also mentioned by those close to Toto and Niki Lauda. However, Rosberg’s retirement announcement has now put them in a dilemma. Although Lewis might not face action, his relation with the team has just taken a downward spiral. But other than Mercedes, most team owners and drivers agree that they would have ed Lewis. Is it an indication of the Mercedes management preferring a Rosberg win this time and getting agitated as that win began to come under threat in the closing laps? Hopefully, a cold winter will cool down temperatures on both sides.

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Nico Hulkenberg he’s managed to take force india to fourth position in contructors’ standings but isn’t happy resting on his laurels. tg’s niharika ghorpade catches up with renault’s new signee for the 2017 season as he mulls his f1 career

I think I’ve done a lot of good work, had a lot of good races, and scored many points. NG: What about situations like the Brazilian GP, where your chances of a podium spot slipped away due to rotten luck? How do you hit reset before the next race? NH: To be honest, Brazil was not too difficult to process and put behind me because it was just bad luck to cut my tyre and lose a good result. There’s no point thinking about it too much. NG: You are rated as one of the best drivers in wet conditions on the current grid. How did you pick up these skills? NH: The only explanation I have for this is that

when I was driving go-karts, I started off in the Netherlands. There, they didn’t have rain tyres for go-karts. So, that was obviously pretty slippery and one had to learn a lot about car control and grip. I think that’s where I picked up those skills. NG: Are the current 2016 Pirelli wet tyres doing justice to drivers like you or Lewis or even others on the grid who have sound skills in the wet? Or are they just a gamble? NH: I think Brazil has proven that we need to work on the full wet tyre. especially when it comes to drainage of water and standing water. It wasn’t even raining that hard, just drizzling, but there was a lot of aquaplaning. Pirelli definitely has some homework to do.

PHOTOGRAPHy: FORCe INDIA & AFP

Niharika Ghorpade: You’ve had a great run with championships, including Le Mans. But your first F1 podium still eludes you. How do you cope with this? Nico Hulkenberg: I think I cope pretty well with it. you have to understand that in F1, it’s not that easy to win because having the right car is a big part of it. Also, that’s the nature of the sport. If you let disappointments upset you too much, then it’s not going to be good for your performance and career. There are many things the driver can’t control, so you need to focus and learn to control the things that you can, and do the best you can with what you have. Of course, on one hand, I’m a bit annoyed that I haven’t won a race or been on the podium all these years but on the other,

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Formula 1

NG: You have chosen to go for a works drive but Renault has some catching up to do. How soon do you expect them to catch up? NH: That’s always difficult to know. Next year, we have some regulation changes, which I think will help Renault to some extent, because it is a bit of a reset. But 2017, I think, will still have to be looked at as a learning year, and things are going to be a bit tricky. But beyond that, I hope there is some good progress and we get closer to the front. and scored many points. NG: The young entrants today are in their teens and coming up to speed pretty quickly. Is this because the current cars are more

owners, but there are a lot of British people in the team. It’s a very nice working environment, very healthy, and we have great team spirit. NG: Force India has consistently punched above its weight. What is so special about the organisation that allows it to do this? NH: They have made some good decisions over the last few years, and employed some good people. The team is run by people who understand the sport. When it comes to engine and gearbox, it’s a customer team. We don’t have to spend our time deg, and instead we get to spend our time more on the racing side, so that helps. It’s when it comes to building the car and aero that we

for a new challenge. I believe Renault will become stronger, and it will become a very competitive team. And that they can supply me with a very competitive car over the next few years. NG: You’ve made many visits to India. Your impressions of the country? And which region did you like best? NH: India is quite special. It’s very different from anywhere else we have travelled to. From that point of view, it was exciting, culture wise and food wise, it was pretty different. The traffic is also pretty unique. Which part I like most is tough to answer but given that I’ve spent quite some time in Bangalore, it would have to be that city.

‘I believe Renault can supply me with a very competitive car over the next few years. It’s only going to get better’ friendly or is it just that training and preparation is now more advanced? NH: Probably a little bit of both. Nowadays, we have simulators and they have some tools which help the youngsters get up to speed quicker. But it’s also because the cars are easier to drive now. NG: Force India is the only team that indicates a national identity. Have you found the atmosphere different from the others, in of culture? NH: Not really to be honest. I mean, yes, we carry the name India in the team, and we have Indian

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are a manufacturer team, optimising those areas and focusing on them. And that has worked pretty well for the team. NG: So, things sound good with Force India. What then, is the driving force behind your decision to move to Renault? NH: I’ve been with this team for many years and obviously, we’ll try to seal fourth place at the Constructor’s this weekend. If we do that, it’s going to be huge for Force India. But sometimes, it is time in life for a new challenge, and I felt this is the right moment for me in my life and career

NG: How do you find Vijay Mallya as a team owner and a person? How is he compared to say, a Ron Dennis or other bosses? NH: Vijay definitely is a personality, I like him a lot. I have enormous respect for what he’s done with this team here. I think you have to give him credit for that. I don’t there has ever been a privateer who bought a team, kept it going for so long and build it up to what it is now. He is a super cool guy whose door is always open. He is very approachable and is still one of the characters in this sport. This sport needs some special people.

KP’s journey

Aravind KP Heard plenty from tHe man. now, as He Heads to tHe dakar, it’s time to know His macHine

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constantly evolving. Our experiences in Morocco taught us a thing or two, and we’re using that understanding to improve the Sherco-TVS 2017 RTR 450’s capability. The team has been working on enhancing the engine and they’re also developing a new a fuel injection system and eCM along with tweaking the bike’s navigation system. My motorcycle will definitely be more powerful by the time Dakar comes along. Team manager David Casteu, a Dakar veteran, has been constantly involved in the evolution of the bike. With every ing race, he brings in a bit more of the ‘rider’ element, helping the RTR evolve further. I would also like to acknowledge the contribution of our mechanic R Prakasam. His experience at the Dakar over the last two years and his familiarity with my riding style helped immensely in honing the RTR to perfection. My RTR is powered by a 450cc single-cylinder engine. Why not a twin, you ask. Well, the simpler the engine design, the more reliable it is – something very important for the kind of races we participate in. It also keeps weight in check and fits snugly within the small frame. What we extract from that 450cc single is sufficient for the class. Apart from the engine, suspension and other mechanicals, some key parameters like wheelbase and ground clearance have been configured for my stature and riding style. For example, the navigation tower, which typically adds weight to the bike, has been tuned according to my to retain balance. Also, the seat height was increased by two inches for me. At TVS Racing, we’re taught to consider the motorcycle an extension of oneself and automatically, the control and performance improves. I have used this experience with my bike and with each ing day, my confidence grows in leaps and bounds. Sure, there will be surprises aplenty when we take on the challenges Dakar throws our way, but I think that the RTR 450 is a machine built to get this job done. Wish us luck!

“Why choose a single over a twin? Well, at the Dakar, the simpler the engine design, the more reliable it is”

KP’s RTR 450 will have more poke when it gets to Dakar

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PHOTOGRAPHy: SHA SHAnk MB AnD MAnUFACTUReR

n my previous columns, I documented my journey as an individual en route to Dakar 2017 – the monumental milestone that stands before me. So, I will take this opportunity to talk about the machine. The Sherco-TVS 2017 RTR 450, the motorcycle that I will ride at the Dakar, is an extremely capable, built-for-a-purpose machine. I feel like I’ve come a long way with this bike which can be a bit intimidating even for a seasoned rider. During my 10-year journey with TVS Racing, I have ridden a myriad of everyday machines (tuned, of course) which many of you would resonate with. I started off with the Shogun, Fiero and Victor in 2006. As I developed my skill, I progressed to riding in Group B (on the Apache RTR) and Group A (on the Apache RTR 250, 300 and 450 machines) categories. Of all these machines, I have a special place in my heart for the Shogun as it was my first race bike. I would love to own one and have it completely tuned up by the TVS Racing Team. Those were early days, though. Come 2017, I see myself finding my limits astride the proficient RTR 450. I’ll be honest here: I love this machine. When I first saw the Dakar bike in 2013, I fell in love right away. It instantly strengthened my resolve to qualify for Dakar and ride a similar bike in the competition. The dream didn’t realise very quickly, though, and my first tryst with the 2017 RTR 450, which was still an evolving product, was only a few days before the OiLibya Rally of Morocco this October. It was somewhat different from the machine I had ridden before, and it took me some time to get used to it in the competitive environment – a day to be exact. By the second day, however, I was extremely comfortable with it. Unfortunately, I faced an agonising crash just a kilometre from the finish. It was a nasty accident but the machine made it out with nothing but a scratch. Honestly, it was the machine that saved me on that occasion. But even as I acknowledge that it’s a great competition bike, like all racing machines, it’s

MotoGP

Begin again the 2016 MotoGP season ended in Valencia on November 13, and the very next day, preparations for 2017 commenced. Here are some observations from the two test days Words: AmAAn Ahmed

Don’t read too much into the times

PhOTOgRaPhY: MaNufacTuReRS

2016

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ended when Jorge Lorenzo crossed the finish line to seal his last win aboard a Yamaha at the Ricardo Tormo circuit on November 13. The next day, it was 2017... for the paddock, that is. On the morning of the 14th, the pit lane was specked with new bikes, old bikes, new neutral leathers, plenty of fresh (and some weary) faces. This being the very first test for the next season meant quite a few riders were getting their first taste of new machinery, working with new people, and teams also had to crack on with the development work for next year’s bike. That meant new parts had to be tested, new setups had to be tried out and so on. Some riders focused on acquainting themselves with their new dance partner, while some focused on perfecting what they had. In short, not everyone had the same expectations from this test, and so, the lap times will only tell you so much about what 2017 has in store for us.

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Maverick goes fastest

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t’s hard to ignore how quickly Maverick Vinales seems to have adapted to the Yamaha. he spent a good two years whipping the Suzuki gSX-RR into shape, and here, it seems as if he has inherited a bike much like the Suzuki, only better in every single way. It helps, of course, that both factories have the same inline-four engine layout. That is one of the factors which will have put Vinales at ease right away. and it showed: Vinales put in 61 laps on the first day, hammered in 76 the next and set the fastest time on both days. It’s not just MV25’s outright speed that impresses: it’s also his consistency. his lap times were more or less similar over the course of the test. Safe to say, Vinales will be a contender for the title in 2017.

Lorenzo’s smile says it all

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hile Yamaha was generous enough to let its three-time champion Jorge Lorenzo hop over to the Ducati garage for the Valencia test, it has restricted him from speaking to the press about his new team and bike. But while JL99 kept mum, there wasn’t much left to be said seeing him and ex-rival and now team-mate casey Stoner discussing matters, a smile plastered on their faces all along. understandably, it was Lorenzo’s first time on a Ducati that had everyone on the edge of their seat. The cameras were all trained on him as he readied to take out the gP16, and he didn’t disappoint. Lorenzo was third fastest on Day 1, and eighth fastest on Day 2, which was when he

tried out the new gP17. While Lorenzo familiarised himself with the Desmo, team-mate andrea Dovizioso was tasked with the duty of carrying out development work, which he did, trying out a new engine with smoother power delivery. Yes, their bikes had wings (banned for 2017), but it was purely for reference purposes. Over the winter break, Ducati boffins will have to figure out a way to retain the downforce provided by the winglets, as the lift in fifth and sixth gears is otherwise hard to rein in. Bossman gigi Dall’Igna seemed happy with how things went, and Lorenzo seemed satisfied to be working in a less hostile environment, with a bike that’s as competitive as any. count him out at your own peril.

Marquez is only getting better

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or either Vinales or Lorenzo to stand a chance, they will first have to take down the reigning three-time MotogP champion – Marc Marquez. If this test is anything to go by, Marquez is closing in on the right bike for him. he tried every possible combination: 2016 chassis, 2016 chassis with 2017 engine and the 2017 engine. honda has gone in for a new firing order, the engine is now a ‘big bang’ instead of a ‘screamer’, and that should help solve some of the Rc213V’s acceleration issues. That said, Marquez hinted at the need for more work, and honda has plenty of time to hand over a much-improved bike at the next test. and though he wants more to be done, Marquez was stunningly consistent over the two days of the test. he put in plenty of laps, most of them at the same pace. he’s closing in on the vastly improved, easier-to-control honda, and that should have his rivals worried.

Andrea Iannone was flying on the GSX-RR in no time. He’s said to have found the base setup pretty good

The KTM RC16’s steel frame, WP suspension and ‘screamer’ engine meant Bradley Smith had plenty to acquaint himself with

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WRC

Mikkelsen gives vW farewell victory Andreas Mikkelsen signed off Volkswagen’s Wrc era with a victory in australia WOrds: Christopher Chaves

he Norwegian won the final round of the 2016 WRC season 14.9sec ahead of his team-mate Sébastien Ogier, who spun away his chances. It provided a perfect farewell for the German manufacturer, which bows out of the series after a dominant four-year stint. However, Mikkelsen’s win in the Polo R wasn’t enough to clinch the runners-up spot in the drivers’ championship. A strong third-place finish for Hyundai’s Thierry Neuville, lagging by 57.7sec, meant the Belgian secured the position behind the already-crowned Ogier. Ogier won the final live TV Power Stage to claim three bonus points. Neuville took two points for second, while team-mate Dani Sordo secured the final point. Mikkelsen headed the order through the final round of the 2016 WRC season, but came under pressure from team-mate Ogier and Paddon. The Norwegian started the final morning with just a 2s advantage over Ogier but put in a fine display to stay ahead, making his pursuers push hard only to make crucial errors in the process. Mikkelsen saw his lead extend to 20s when Ogier spun on SS20 and Paddon hit a bank and shred his left-rear tyre.

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While Ogier’s error didn’t affect his race result, Paddon’s dropped him from third to fifth behind his two Hyundai team-mates. The Kiwi was able to recover fourth from Dani Sordo by 1.6 seconds before the end of the rally, while Thierry Neuville comfortably held on to third. Two points for second on the Power Stage allowed the Belgian to clinch second in the drivers’ championship. Without Paddon’s mistake that sent Neuville up the order, Mikkelsen may well have snatched the runner-up position. Mads Ostberg was the only Ford Fiesta to finish the rally, coming home sixth for the M-Sport team, behind the Hyundai trio, after Eric Camilli rolled out of seventh on the final morning. The Frenchman’s mistake promoted Ott Tanak to seventh in M-Sport’s customer Fiesta run by the D-MACK team. It also allowed Skoda’s Esapekka Lappi to clinch the WRC2 title with a top-eight finish in a rally he absolutely dominated his class in, finishing more than four and a half minutes clear of second placed Nicholas Fuchs. The third VW of Jari-Matti Latvala hit a bridge on the first stage and damaged the suspension, but he battled his way back to ninth.

2016 WRC Rally Australia standings after SS23 Pos. Driver

Team

Gap

1

Andreas Mikkelsen VW Motorsport II

2h46m05.7s

2

Sebastien Ogier

VW Motorsport

+14.9s

3

Thierry Neuville

Hyundai Motorsport

+1m12.6s

2016 WRC Final Driver’s Championship Standings Pos 1 2 3

Driver Sebastien Ogier

Points 268

Thierry Neuville

160

Andreas Mikkelsen

154

WrC running order change, 2017 calendar confirmed

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n 2016, WRC rules effectively put the championship points leader, who was Sebastien Ogier, in the sweeping role throughout the entire season. That forced the Frenchman into a streak of six winless rallies but he still emerged as champion after winning every event not run on gravel. The system was criticised by Ogier and his VW team through the season and to their delight, at the latest FIA World Motor Sport Council meeting in Vienna, the rule was changed. The updated regulations will see the field spend Saturday and Sunday in reversed classification order,

DaTe 20-22 January 10-12 February 10-12 March 7-9 April 28-30 April 19-21 May 9-11 June

effectively putting the slowest car first, while the championship leader will only have to open the stages on Friday. The FIA also revealed details of a new WRC Trophy, created for drivers of pre-2017 specification WRC cars. In this series, competitors will score points on a maximum of seven rallies, with the best six results counting towards driver and co-driver titles. The Junior World Rally Championship will switch from Citroën to Ford power after confirmation that M-Sport has been awarded the contract to supply R2 cars in 2017 and 2018.

WRC 2017 Calendar

evenT Monte Carlo Sweden Mexico (Corsica) argentina Portugal Italy (Sardinia)

DaTe 30 June - 2 July 28-30 July 19-20 August 6-8 October 27-29 October

17-19 November

evenT Poland Finland Spain Great Britain (Wales) australia

hyundai unveils 2017 WrC challenger

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rivers Thierry Neuville, Hayden Paddon and Dani Sordo revealed the team’s third new World Rally Car in four seasons at the Monza race circuit. The three-door i20 coupe sports an aggressive new look, while engine power has been increased from 300 to 380bhp. Cars will also have reduced overall weight, improved aerodynamic and mechanical grip and the re-introduction of the active centre differential. Manufacturer teams will be allowed to field up to three cars for each round in the 2017 season. The top two classified finishers for each team will score points for the Manufacturers’ Championship. The Korean company will compete under the single Hyundai Shell Mobis World Rally Team banner. TOPGEar.cOm

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hero motorsports - dakar

The brave front If you didn’t already know, Hero MotoCorp has ed forces with -based competition bike developer Speedbrain GmbH and entered two bikes in the ultimate off-road endurance race – the 2017 Dakar Rally.

So, it’s only befitting that you know the basics about the team with Indian ties and its motorcycles that is tasked with covering around 8,500km of torturous terrain – from Paraguay through Bolivia to Argentina – from January 5-20 next year.

Speedbrain 450

Clutch Hydraulic-activated clutch

Battery

Seat

12 V Lithium Ion

Buck-skin seat with rider’s name

Fairing Tank 29 litres *approx

Exhaust

Carbon Kevlar with LED rally headlights and navigation tower

Akrapovic Titanium Rally exhaust

Front suspension Aluminium Triple Clamps for 52mm fork with steering damper; 300mm suspension travel

Rear suspension Trax rear shock with full linkage; 320mm suspension travel

Rear brake

Front brake

220mm, single disc, single-piston floating

298mm, Single disc, Moto Master oversized front brake system

Engine 445.9cc, single-cylinder, watercooled, EFI, overhead camshafts, four (power figures undisclosed)

Rear wheels/Tyres 2.15 x 18; Michelin 140/80 with BIP Mousse

Chassis Speedbrain Chromium-Moly steel frame

Unladen weight without fuel: 140 kg

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Front wheels/Tyres 1.60 x 21; Michelin 90/90

Chunchunguppe Shiva Santosh

Joaquim Filipe Vilarinho Rodrigues

A.K.A: C S Nationality: Indian Place of birth: Bangalore Age: 32 Professional racer since: 2003 Description: C S Santosh is one of India´s top motorsport athletes. He was the first-ever Indian participant in the Dakar Rally (2015) and was an inspiration to all competitors, having managed to complete the course broken, battered and bruised. He has won pretty much everything aboard a dirt bike in India for nine straight years.

A.K.A: J-Rod Nationality: Portuguese Place of Birth: Barcelos Age: 34 Professional racer since: 1991 Description: Joaquim Rodrigues is a decorated Portuguese rider who got off the competition mark early on in life, has won titles in Motocross, Supercross and Enduro. The versatile and fun-loving off-road rider whose self-proclaimed hobbies are watching movies and shooting pool is now setting his sights on ‘Dakar-style’ rally competitions.

Professional achievements: • Two-time Gulf National DirtTrack Champion • Three-time MRF National Supercross Champion • Winner of Al-Ain Motocross in Dubai - 2006 • Fifth in Dubai National Championsip - 2008 • The first Indian in the Asian Motocross championship to have qualified with the fastest time in Moto II in Iran, where he finished fourth • Winner of numerous events in Sri Lanka including the prestigious Fox Hill Supercross - 2010 • Winner of Raid De Himalaya - 2012 • Winner of Desert Storm - 2014, 2015 and 2016 • Eigth in Round 2 of the World Cross Country Rallies at Qatar Sealine - 2014 • Ninth in World Cross Country Rally - 2014 • 36th in Dakar Rally - 2015 • 13th in Baja Aragon - 2015 • 30th in Oilibya Rally Morocco - 2016

Professional achievements: • Winner of Portuguese Motocross 60cc – 1991,1992 • Second in Portuguese national championship of Motocross 125/open 1997 • Winner of Portuguese Motocross 125 Sénior – 1998 • Fourth in European championship of Motocross – 2001 • Ninth in Supercross Paris-Bercy – 125cc – 2002 • Second in Stuttgart Supercross – 2007 • Winner of Athens International Supercross – 2008 • Winner of Arcos Valdevez Supercross – 2009 • 14th in Oilibya Rally Morocco -2016 Chief technology officer (CTO), Hero MotoCorp Ltd: Dr Markus Braunsperger Managing director, Speedbrain GmbH: Wolfgang Fischer

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anandith, vishnu

triumph at JK Championship Words: Christopher Chaves

s the curtains came down on the fourth and final round of the 19th JK Tyre-FMSCI National Racing Championship at the Buddh International Circuit, it was Anindith Reddy and Vishnu Prasad who emerged as national champions in the Euro JK 16 and LGB Formula 4 categories, respectively. In the final round in Greater Noida, both Anindith and Vishnu proved unbeatable on Saturday, winning both their races. Starting with 96 points on Sunday, with a handy 9-point lead, Hyderabad’s Anindith knew that it was still a

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three-horse race for the championship title, going into the reverse line-up on the grid on Sunday. But even a sixth position start didn’t deter the lad and he fought hard to quickly make his way up the order and into the lead, adding ten more points to his tally after finishing the race in that position. There was some respite for him though, when his main challenger Nayan Chatterjee (87 points) pulled out of the race in the third lap; and when the other racer who was tied on second, Ananth Shanmugham, slipped out of contention by finishing eighth. Anindith built up an unbeatable lead of 11 points to seal the championship with one final race to go. Later in the evening, the Hyderabadborn racer clocked the fastest lap of the day, in the eighth, finishing the 5.1 kilometres in just 2:01.411s. Ananth Shanmugham and Nayan Chatterjee sat second place and third on the championship table. The LGB 4 too followed a similar script with Chennai’s Vishnu Prasad wrapping up the championship on Saturday itself. He had a 19-point lead going into Sunday, and laughed his way past the chequered flag to underline his supremacy. He has been in prime form all through the season, taking virtually every round. The super bikers provided thrills of their own, but the father-son duo of Gurvinder Singh and Simranjeet Singh had to settle for the runners-up trophies despite winning their first races on Saturday. In the JK 600cc, Gurvinder slipped to fourth place on Sunday to take second position; in the JK 1000cc, Simranjeet tied with Sandesh P but yielded the title to him for coming behind him in the qualifying rounds. Deepak Ravikumar didn’t have any such problems, thanks to two podium finishes.

IndIans In motorsport

aRmaan is lamboRGhini suPeR seRies ChamPion lAmboRghini suPeR TRofeo seRies

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Gill makes aPRC histoRy AsiA PAcific RAlly chAmPionshiP

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ill wrapped up the final race of the 2016 APRC season with a win in Chikmagalur, following his success in New Zealand, Australia, China, Japan and Malaysia. And by doing so, the 35-year old champion driver became the first person to win all rounds of an FIA championship on way to annexing the title. The 2016 title is his second after his maiden triumph in 2013. In winning the Coffee Day India Rally, Gill (co-driver Glenn Macneall) amply demonstrated his driving prowess and had a lot to spare at the finish while clocking 3:39:37.9 s over 17 Special Stages while Cusco Racing’s Michael Young (Malcolm Read) came home a distant second, over 11 minutes behind and his team-mate Sanjay Takale

(Noriko Takeshita) in third (04:03:51.0). Gill, in his Race Torque-prepared MRF Skoda FabiaR5, itted it was befitting that he achieved the record in his home country and in front of a legion of adoring fans that thronged the three-day event. Gill’s long-time partner Macneall also clinched the co-driver’s title while MRF took the team championship and Skoda bagged the manufacturer’s crown. With his MRF team-mate Fabian Kreim (Frank Christian) not in the fray following a crash on Sunday, Gill, who led overnight by over seven minutes, pushed in the early part of the day, but he had to ease off when his car encountered some problems.

ndian racing sensation Armaan Ebrahim and Sri Lankan team-mate Dilantha Malagamuwa concluded their 2016 season in style in Valencia, winning the Pro Am championship in the Lamborghini Super Trofeo Series. Armaan and Dilantha finished third in the morning race and fourth in the afternoon one to garner enough points to clinch the title. The duo also took third position in the Pro category, thanks to their consistent performances through the year. Armaan started Race 1 on pole, his second this season, and Dimantha qualified fifth for Race 2. In the first leg for pros, Armaan held on to P1 until he pitted to set his team up for a grand finish. But in the second leg for amateurs, Dilantha couldn’t hold on to the lead and dropped two places to give the duo an overall third place. In Race 2, Dilantha did well till he took a big hit on his way into the pits in the penultimate lap. Despite that, Armaan piloted the car masterfully in the Pro leg and clinched a podium finish to place the team fourth overall in the standings.

Rajini fifth afteR Round five mAlAysiAn suPeRbike chAmPionshiP

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t was a weekend of highs and lows for India’s Malaysian superbike champion. The first race of Round 4 was declared wet, but conditions improved quickly. Rajini was among the few who gambled on slick tyres. After an average start, he fell back to 13th after five laps and then, as conditions got better, he began to claw back positions. In the final lap, on Turn 8, he overtook the leader to take the chequered flag. Rajini started well in a dry Race 2 and was up running second

position by Lap 2. But the champ had a nasty tank slapper on Lap 7 and in trying to control the bike, he inadvertently pressed the pit lane speed limiter which almost brought the bike to a halt. He was able to finish 4th. During the first lap of Race 1 in Round 5, the rider in front of Rajini wiped out and the Indian could do little to avoid making ; his bike sustained heavy damage. Rajini did manage to make it out on track, but had to retire later due to a faulty clutch.

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WEC

Audi win,Porsche take title in Bahrain Inglostadt manufacturer bows out of the championship on a high note Words: ChristoPher ChAves

t was a day of high emotion for the Audi Sport Team. Its pair of R18 e-tron quattros were clearly the best on the field in Bahrain this year, with the #8 car of Lucas di Grassi, Loic Duval and Oliver Jarvis bringing home the team’s 17th and final WEC win. The No.7 car of Andre Lotterer ed the polesitting sister car in the second hour, but a slow changeover to Benoit Treluyer at the third set of stops gave back the lead to the No.8 Audi. The two Audis chose to take different strategic paths midway through the six-hour race, during the Full Course Yellow period. The No.8 car pitted while the No.7 car stayed out - but Duval retook the advantage when he ed Treluyer early in the fifth hour, and was able to keep ahead despite losing pace on worn tyres towards the end of his stint. By the end of it, di Grassi in the No.8 car crossed the line 16 seconds ahead of Marcel Fassler in the #7 machine, the pair completing a historic one-two for Audi. Third place went to the No.1 Porsche of Mark

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A historic 1-2 finish for Audi Sport. Now, that’s some way to throw in the towel

Most probably won’t celebrate third and sixth. But then, these guys just won the championship

2016 FIA WEC Bahrain Podium No.

098

Drivers

Car/Manufacturer

1

L.di Grassi, L.Duval, O.Jarvis

Audi

6h00m12.387s

2

M.Fassler, A.Lotterer, B.Treluyer

Audi

16.419s

3

T.Bernhard, M.Webber, B.Hartley

Porsche

1m17.001s

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Time

Webber, Timo Bernhard and Brendon Hartley, 1m17s behind the winning Audi. The best of the 919 Hybrids settled into third place during the second hour, fending off the No.5 Toyota, but never stood a chance against the Audis although Webber did get to end his WEC career by bringing the car home at the end of the race. Toyota ended the season in sub-standard fashion, with both of its cars a lap down. The No.5 Toyota of Sebastien Buemi, Anthony Davidson and Kazuki Nakajima came home ahead of Kamui Kobayashi, Mike Conway and Stephane Sarrazin in the sister No.6 car, the latter needing a win to take home the title. But fate had other plans. It was the No.2 Porsche of Jani, Lieb and Dumas that dramatically bagged the championship with a sixth-place finish, a further two laps behind.

EDITED BY AGASTI KAULGI

TopGear’s long-termers. Tested & verified

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Hyundai Elantra

101 REnAuLT DUSTER

Continues to bless our left foot

101 TATA TIAGO

Keeps the fuel costs in check

102 FiAT PUNTO

Our no-frills hatch bids us its final goodbye

103 TVS VIcTOR

TVS’ bestseller has arrived in town

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hyuNDAi elANTrA

Settling in Price `21.79 lakh (on-road, Mumbai) Model MPI SX (O) AT Driver Agasti Kaulgi Why it’s here Does the Elantra hit the executive sedan sweet spot?

1999cc, petrol, 150bhp, 192Nm, 6A

My boss has handed me the keys to this lovely exec sedan. Can that be a good thing or bad? If it’s a good car, why has he ed it on to me in just a couple of months? Well, these are the first questions that spring to mind as I walk up to the new Elantra. The first thing that I observe about the new Hyundai is the way it unlocks and locks: with a loud beep of the horn. It’s so loud that it wakes everyone in my building when I come home late. And the funny bit is that there’s no way to switch this beeping function off. Urgh. On the bright side, I haven’t met a single person who says the Elantra is badly designed or that it looks average. It’s quite a stunner, this. Yeah, it does have a hint of the older Elantra in the design, but the new face with the pentagonal grille is styled to perfection. If you ask me, I’m

REPORT 3

10 0

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Total mileage: 4400km, Test kpl: 11.5

more of a fan of the rear styling than the front. The taillights are fancy and there’s just the right amount of bling sprinkled all over. In of driving, the word to describe it perfectly is calm. The Elantra is never in too much of a hurry and doesn’t urge you to push the throttle hard, say like the Skoda Octavia. The steering feel is neutral, but the is almost non-existent. On one of the highway runs where the Elantra accompanied me, there was a situation that required me to stand on the brakes. The result? It stopped in time and the brakes had great grip. But the feel I got wasn’t exactly nice – it shuddered and squirmed while it shed speed. There’s a button in the cabin which is to give one tight slap to anyone who thinks this generation of the Elantra doesn’t offer you a spirited drive. It says ‘Sport’ and it does a few things: changes the shift point for the gears and slightly weighs up the steering. No, there’s no added , and well, the change in shift point doesn’t really make much of a difference. So yeah, to sum it up, the Sport button doesn’t really do much. The Elantra that we have has a 2.0-litre petrol engine under its hood. In of refinement, it’s right up there. There’s not much noise (except if you’re at 4500rpm and above) and the vibrations are kept well in check. But it isn’t very fuel-efficient. On a particularly bad day, when all of Mumbai is out on the road or I am in the mood for a quick run, the on-board computer says it’s returning 6-7kpl. And only when on the highway with sparse traffic and with a light right foot, will it push up the figure to 11-13kpl. Driving it for a few more months will reveal more the Elantra’s qualities. Hang around.

GARAGE LOGBOOK HYUNDAI ELANTRA Looks great from every angle and has great road presence Refined engine but not too fuel efficient Smart features make life extremely easy on the road Well appointed cabin and lots of room to be comfy

MILEAGE AND KPL THIS MONTH

0 0 0 1 6 5 0 1

9.0

reNAulT DusTer AMT

All hail the magic ride Price `13.3 lakh (ex-showroom, Mumbai) Model 110PS RXZ AMT Driver Devesh Shobha Why it’s here To see if the AMT manages to boost Duster’s excellent driveability 4cyl, 1461cc turbo-diesel, 109bhp, 248Nm, 6-speed AMT, FWD Handling an 18-month-old kid isn’t easy, they like to run around and create havoc. My daughter is no different. In August last year, she was indirectly involved in an incident which resulted in a nasty fall for my 60-year-old mother-in-law. The doctor said it was a case of slipped disc and she was bed-ridden for three months. After almost four months of house arrest, she decided to come visit our new house in Pune which she hadn’t been able to visit yet. Now, it could’ve been a terrible proposition for her given that Pune is 170km from Mumbai. Thankfully, I had the Duster with me that has a comfortable back seat and an absorbent ride. After five hours of travelling in the Renault, she did appreciate its seat and ride comfort, cabin space, and the fact that getting in and out of the cabin was easier than she had expected it to be. I had to drive slower than usual, negotiating road ts and undulations gingerly,

REPORT 3

Total mileage: 5,800km, Test kpl: 15

GARAGE LOGBOOK In the city, the AMT still hesitates to shift cogs at low speeds. It feels the best when driven on the highway. Speed-sensing auto lock function isn’t working on our car and neither is child lock. Tyres have worn out pretty quickly. Hampers the Duster’s ride quality

MILEAGE AND KPL THIS MONTH

5 0 0 1 4 0 0 6

15.3

but did manage to ferry her to Pune and back without aggravating the disc herniation. Not that she praised my driving in particular, but I’ll take not being criticised as a sign of appreciation. Plus, the 480-litre boot fit in all of our luggage and even our pet reptile Herbie’s basket. The only sore point was an issue with the tyres that seemed to have worn out too soon. Since our Duster was parked for most of November, the tyres developed a flat spot. Usually, after driving for about 2-3km, it smoothens out. This time though, the tyres aren’t healing. And that means there are unusual vibrations at the wheel and an irritating ‘dub dub’ sound for company. I’ve conveyed my concerns to Renault regarding the issues and the team has assured timely solutions. I’ll let you know once it’s back from the service centre. Apart from these two issues, our Duster AMT seems to be working just fine.

TATA TiAGO

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Green light

12.0

Price `5.15 lakh (ex-showroom, Mumbai) Model Revotron, XZ Driver Chris Chaves Why it’s here To see if it qualifies as Tata’s best petrol hatch to date A tiny green ‘Eco’ lights up on the digital display when you press the corresponding button on the dash. Tata says it’s the more frugal of the two drive modes on offer here and in our tests, the car returned 14kph. Time to find out how it works in traffic. Of course, in Mumbai, you spend more time stuck in mile-long jams than moving. I’m not the most punctual guy, but I really try to be. A decent gap

REPORT 3

3-cyl, 1199cc, petrol, 84bhp, 114Nm, 5M

Total mileage: 3,210km, Test kpl: NA

opens up and I pounce on it. But soon as I stab the accelerator, I think I hear the engine chuckle before easing on the power in sympathy. So, I miss the window and two red lights later, it’s time to switch back to City. Lesson learnt. If you’re not on an open road, using this mode can lead to high anxiety. I’d rather be on time than thrifty. In City mode, the petrol Tiago is quite peppy and doesn’t disappoint if you have to make up time.

1,012kg

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hONDA NAvi

Moneymaker Price `48,262 (on-road, Mumbai) rider Amaan Ahmed Why it’s here To define what this two-wheeled concoction is

FiAT PuNTo Pure

End of the line Price `5.32 lakh (on-road, Mumbai) Model Pure Driver Abhinav Mishra Why it’s here To show that an entry level car doesn’t necessarily have to be boring 4cyl, 1172cc, 67bhp, 96Nm 1cyl, 109cc, 7.8bhp, 8.6Nm, automatic

Total mileage:

2200km, Test kpl: 45

101kg

Not even a week had ed since I’d pried the keys to the Navi out of Chris’ hands when the demonetisation wave swept away everything that lay in its path – including conversations about the Navi. Like most other commoners, I came close to running out of cash in a few days. I just had to find an ATM stacked with money – a rarity at the time – to (quite literally) stay in the green. During the day, every last bank branch and ATM had a painfully long, serpentine queue leading up to it. So I decided to try my luck at night, and with the Navi for company, the hunt was actually enjoyable. Empty roads meant I could open the taps and gun the Navi from one ATM to another, and I had to do some looking around, as all ATMs around my residence had run dry. Luckily, after 45 minutes of riding around, I found one at a fuel pump with a small-ish queue of people thanking their lucky stars.The crazy amounts of fun the Navi is, I’d rather have spent more time looking. Honest.

REPORT 7

10 2

Time just flies when you are having fun. And with the Fiat Punto Pure that’s leaving our garage, it feels the same. It’s been six months that I’ve had the car, and it’s been enjoyable. I will fondly the times of driving through the twisties at Lonavala; or running down the express highway to my friend’s farmhouse. The Punto Pure felt most alive during cornering or aggressive driving. For a family hatch that costs around `5 lakh, it sure is a lot of fun. Not-so-fond memories were of every time I drove the car in stop-and-go traffic. Lack of lowend torque is quite painful, especially if you want to pull a quick overtake. Not to mention, keeping the engine at higher revs takes a toll on fuel economy. If I were to buy a Punto, I’d rather go for a base diesel engine, which feels peppier and sips on fuel rather than gulping it. Guess that’s the only thing I could not get used to as far as the Pure went. Never mind the absence of a high-tech audio system or Bluetooth connectivity, after sometime, I didn’t

GOODBYE

even think much about it. It’s been around for close to a decade on the market, but the Punto still looks striking. The best part being, you can park it next to all those new hatchbacks with LED headlights, and still, the Punto looks fresh. Guess that’s why they call it timeless Italian design. It doesn’t matter if it’s an exotic car like a Ferrari, or a simple hatchback like the Punto, they look better as the years go by. While the exterior is timeless, the interior, however, has not aged very well. Still, though it looks dated now, it scores high on usability. I also appreciate the double glove box so I don’t get my car papers mixed up with other knick-knacks. I just wish the cubbyholes were bigger. After living with the Fiat Punto Pure for six months, I must say I really like this car. But even when compared with basic hatchbacks that have flooded the market today, it feels dated. Guess Fiat should get the next-generation Punto here soon; or lose those few Punto loyalists that still exist.

GARAGE LOGBOOK No rear wiper or demister 1.2 litre petrol engine lacks power Audio player optional with no Bluetooth or USB connectivity

MILEAGE AND KPL THIS MONTH

MILEAGE AND KPL THIS MONTH

0 0 0 0 0 9 0 1

Total mileage: 1000km, Test kpl: 10.4

0 0 0 0 4 9 0 1

45.0

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10.0

Tvs APAche rTr200

Round about town

Price `1.13 lakh (on-road, Mumbai) Model RTR 200 4V Carburetter (Pirelli) rider Debabrata Sarkar Why it’s here Does 20cc add a whole lot? 198cc, 1 cyl, 21bhp, 18Nm, 5M

Total mileage: 1900km, Test kpl: NA

It’s been a tough month for pretty much everyone with the entire demonetisation fiasco. I managed to get away relatively lightly, thanks to the full tank of petrol that the Apache was sitting with at home. As a result of some long-drawn travel plans, I may have managed to miss the worst of the queueing up for cash in the city, but it also meant I missed some of the privileges that were offered to make life a bit easier. Primarily, petrol pumps had stopped accepting old currency by the time I had recovered from my jet lag and was ready for a ride. As I had said earlier though, the full tank of petrol in the Apache turned out to be a lifesaver. Not only did it allow me to move around town without having to worry about change for rickshaw fares, but it also afforded me an early morning ride in the beautiful

REPORT 6

148kg

GARAGE LOGBOOK Fuel overflows from carburetter Tyres work well, ensure good grip Sharp LEDs are eye-catching

MILEAGE AND KPL THIS MONTH

0 0 0 0 4 2 0 1

32.0

December weather. I did need to use the choke and leave it on idle for a few minutes before riding out though, thanks to the cooler morning temperatures. Not much of a problem, although I am sure the FI would’ve done better in these circumstances. One more reason to give that one a go in the coming month. I do hope to ride a lot more through the winter and clock some more kilometres on the 200. A ride out of town for a winter vacation perhaps would be good, although Goa is possibly a bit too jaded as an option. Don’t you think? I would love some suggestions for rides out of Mumbai. It would be nice to learn of places I have missed out on all these years. For now, it is time to zip on the warm layer into my Rynox riding gear and set myself up for some early morning excursions. Need a warmer pair of gloves than my Rev it Bombers though.

Tvs vicTOr

MILEAGE AND KPL THIS MONTH

0 0 0 0 6 7 0 1

Quick treats

63

Price `61,253 (on-road Mumbai) Model Disc rider Girish Karkera Why it’s here Does it

stay true to the lineage? It’s finally on these pages. Although we first test rode the new Victor some time back, it’s just now that this motorcycle has found its way into our garage. TVS has managed to give the Victor a fresh new look. Sure, it’s not the kind of bike that will make you stand out in a crowd but it looks sharp with its crisp lines and decals, which aren’t over the top either. On the road is where you will appreciate the

HELLO

1 cyl, 110cc, 9.3bhp, 9.4Nm

bike more with its upright stance and comfortable seat. The suspension manages to soak up a lot of our cratered roads. Despite the soft set-up, it isn’t too choppy. I also quite like the way the exhaust sounds. It’s been a fairly busy month for the Victor and it has gone around being effortless and nonfussy. How long will its dream run continue? Watch this space.

Total mileage: 670km, Test kpl: 63kpl

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Accessories

Keeping track know what your car is up to at all times with carot

o you suffer from anxiety when someone asks you for your car keys? Do you wonder, if you have a chauffeur, what he’s possibly up to with your beloved set of wheels? Or worse, with your loved ones inside? Well, say hello to this matchbox-sized (actually a size bigger) unit that goes by the name Carot. Marketed by Minda group of companies, Carot is your personal car spy that goes beyond just being a tracking device. The unit itself is pretty easy to install and just clicks into the diagnostics port of most modern cars. It is a halfminute job and the bigger task here would be to identify the port rather than actually fitting it in. In a way, that is good because it won’t be easily visible to others. Our test unit was fitted onto a 2015 Scorpio AT where the port is below the right side of the steering wheel. Once installed, an integrated Sim card latches on to

D

satellites through the Carot back-end. Bear in mind though that this alignment may take a day or two day, depending on the vehicle chosen. The unit communicates via its app on which the car owner has to with the serial number.  Once active, not only can you view the precise location of your car, the app also displays information on engine health, towing history and also if the car has been in an incident. It gathers this information by accessing the car’s on-board computer. Apart from a list of all the trips taken, it also provides finer details like whether the car has experienced out of the usual acceleration or panic braking. Carot works on a subscription basis where there is a one-time cost of `8,000 for the unit and an annual service cost. It may be a tad expensive but is quite a handy tool given the benefits. Price: `8,000 (annual subscription excluded) TOPGEAR.cOm

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* Mahindra XUV image used for representational purpose only.

Set atop a picturesque hill dotted with tea and coffee estates, The Windflower Resorts & Spa Vythiri offers mesmerizing view of the Chembra peak with traditional spacious rooms, scrumptious food, host of fun, adventure and cultural activities and Wellness Spa.

The pRize l

A 2 nights/ 3 days all expenses paid couple stay in a suite at the Windflower Bangalore inclusive of breakfast, lunch and dinner

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A complimentary ‘Abhyanga’ Spa treatment for two

l

A SUV /XUV (depending upon availability) for 3 days for self-drive in Bangalore from Zoomcar

COMPETITION ENTRY FORM For a chance to win this fantastic opportunity, simply fill in your details and post this form to: BBC TopGear Magazine India (January 2017), Worldwide Media Pvt Ltd, The Times of India Building, 4th Floor, Dr D.N. Road, Mumbai – 400001. Competition closes on 31st of January, 2017. and conditions apply. Title

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Worldwide Media Pvt. Ltd, publisher of BBC TopGear Magazine India, may you with details of its products and services or to undertake research. If you prefer not to receive such information by post or phone, please tick this box . Please include your email address if you prefer to receive such information by email. We may occasionally your details on to carefully selected companies whose products and services we feel may be of interest to you. If you prefer not to receive such information by post or phone, please tick this box .

Zoomcar has a fleet of over 2,000 cars and services 12 cities across India. The 100 per cent self-drive service can be availed through a mobile phone application or the company’s official website

and Conditions for the lucky draw: 1.The contest is organised by The Windflower Resort & Spa,Zoomcar and Worldwide Media Private Ltd. (WWM) and is binding on all participants in this contest and all applications for participants. 2.Only one entry permitted per person, entries made in bulk or by third parties are prohibited. The Windflower Resort & Spa, Zoomcar and Worldwide Media Pvt. Ltd. reserves the right to cancel any duplicate entries at its own discretion. 3.Entries received after the closing dates shall not be entertained. 4.The winner will be selected through a lucky draw by the first week of February 2017. The winner will be notified via email provided in the contest form. 5.The results declared by us will be final and no further queries, complaints or questions will be entertained. 6.There is no cash alternative and the prize is non-transferable.This offer cannot be clubbed with any ongoing promotions. 7.The winner of the contest shall arrange for the travel from his/her hometown to Bangalore on own cost. 8.WWM/The Windflower Resort & Spa / Zoomcar is not responsible for difference or variance or deficiency in the service (including the hotel stay) and will not have any obligation to respond to any of the complaints. 9.WWM/The Windflower Resort & Spa / Zoomcar reserve the right to change/ modify the and conditions of this offer or to withdraw this offer at any point in time if circumstances arise beyond our control. 10.The contest is open until midnight on January 31, 2017 11. This package includes a stay for a couple for 2 nights at The Windflower Bangalore inclusive of meals, taxes, and 1 mentioned Spa treatment. 12. The suite offered by TheWindflower Resort & Spa must be confirmed minimum 7 days before arrival otherwise the same would be deemed as booked and closed. The offer is subject to availability of rooms on the required dates. Alternate dates are always welcome. 13.To avail the complimetary stay offer kindly write to: [email protected] 14.Travel must be completed before March 31, 2017 14.Zoomcar will offer SUV/XUV with fuel for self-drive for 3 days in Bangalore depending upon availability, 15. Car is being offered for a maximum free kilometers upto 360kms. Any additional kms

travelled will be charged extra at the prevailing rates at `15/km. 16.A refundable security deposit of `5,000 via Debit/Credit card to be paid at the time of booking the car in Bangalore start point. Security deposit will be refunded within 6 hours of the vehicle drop off provided there is no damage to the vehicle. It will be refunded in the citrus wallet or back to the source of payment. 17.Zoomcar standard and conditions applies: •Driver should be at least 18 years of age and possess a valid driving licence. Documents required: •Original Driving Licence needs to be presented for the verification during pick up of the car •The identification documents need to be in the name of the person who is booking the car and he should be present with the original documents at the time of car pick up. Restrictions: •All toll charges/Government taxes would be borne by the winner. •Pets and liquor not allowed in the car. •Violation of Zoomcar T&Cs will attract prescribed penalty. 18.Booking subject to availability. 7 Days advance intimation required. 19.WWM/The Windflower Resort & Spa / Zoomcar will not be liable for claims, damages or liability of any kind, including personal injuries, death or property damages or any direct consequential, incident or other damages which the winner or anyone may suffer as a result of participation in this contest or the acceptance, use or misuse of the prize. 20.WWM/The Windflower Resort & Spa / Zoomcar is not responsible if the contest cannot be redeemed due to war, terrorism, bad weather, civil disruption, system failure or an act of God. 21.Employees of WWM/The Windflower Resort & Spa /Zoomcar and their relatives and business associates are not eligible to take part in this contest. 22.The contest is open only to Indian residents aged 18+. The guest of the winner would also have to be an Indian resident aged 18+. 23.Other and conditions as applicable. 24.This offer in not valid on festive days and is subject to availability of rooms on required dates. 25.The cancellation policy would be a redemption in case the booking is cancelled 7 days prior to arrival. Post which the booking shall stand confirmed and shall be closed..

TOPGEAR

everything you need to know about buying new cars and bikes

aston Martin TopGear on Aston Martin: Arguably the UK’s most desirable marque, thanks to genuinely good supercars.

Honda

dB11

TopGear on Honda: Enjoys a brand value only German cars can beat. City continues to dominate its segment.

the long awaited successor the db9, the db 11 has a lot to live up to, and it does. Like all other astons, this is a stunner too

City

DB 11

PRicE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

8/10

kpl

RATiNG

NA

-

L: 4739mm, w: 2060mm h: 1279mm boot: na litres, Fuel tank: 78 litre, ground clearance: na

Looks like a facelift but its all-new underneath. brings in more space, features and upmarket feel. VX VX CVT VX i-DTEC

PRicE

ENGiNE

12.92 14.24 14.64

4cyl 1497cc 4cyl 1497cc 4cyl 1498cc

bhp

rapide a ball-aching beauty of a saloon and a proper poke in the eye for Porsche’s Panamera turbo.

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

117 145 NA NA NA 7/10 117 145 NA NA NA 6/10 99 200 NA 13.44 16.95 6/10

L: 4440mm w: 1695mm h: 1495mm boot: 510 litres, Fuel tank: 40 litre, ground clearance: 165mm

PRicE

Rapide S

SOmE wORdS...

YEllOw bAR

FuEl EcONOmY

cOST

dimENSiONS

TANk VOlumE

clEARANcE

Our verdict on the brand All on-road, Mumbai prices

...about the car

Will it fit in the bay?

Denotes the TG Favourites How much for a full tank?

NEw THIS MONTH

Engine

In India, you need it

NA

NA

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

12cyl 5935cc 568 630 NA

NA

L: 4728mm w: 1912mm h: 1294mm boot: 144 litres, Fuel tank: 78 litre, ground clearance: na

audi TopGear on Audi: Classy and understated alternative to the driver-oriented BMW and the staid Mercedes. Oozing Teutonic quality.

a3

35TDI Technology 40TFSI Cabriolet

946 Emporio Armani p125

bhp

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

140 320 NA NA 177 250 NA 8.61

Nm

NA 11.2

7/10 7/10

kpl

RATiNG

NA

7/10

a4 audi’s best-seller undergoes a full generation change. becomes a nagging worry for other germans in the game.

PRICE Engine Bhp Nm kph 0-100 kpl RATING 6/10

ENGiNE

42.90 4cyl 1968cc 65.12 4cyl 1798cc

L: 4456mm, w: 1796mm, h: 1416mm boot: 425 litres, Fuel tank: 50 litre, ground clearance: na

76 4cyl 1993cc 190 400 230 9* 7.75 8/10

10.6 NA NA NA

kph 0-100

a grand tourer in the truest sense of the term. the vanquish offers an experience no other gt will ever offer.

PRicE

Bhp Nm kph 0-100 kpl RATING

0.84* 1cyl 125cc 10

Nm

audi’s brought the three-box version of the a3 to compete with the a-class and the 1-series.

Volvo S90 p118 PRICE

Less is, um, more

bhp

VanquisH PRicE

TG SPEAkS

ENGiNE

220* 12cyl 5935cc 552 630 NA

L: 5020mm, w: 2140mm h: 1360mm boot: 317 litres, Fuel tank: 90 litre, ground clearance: na

Coupe

Inscription

ENGiNE

427* 12cyl 5204cc 600 700 NA

30TFSI Technology

PRicE

ENGiNE

52.4

4cyl 1395cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

147 250 NA

NA

L: 4726mm, w: 1842mm h: 1427mm boot: na, Fuel tank: 54 litre, ground clearance: na

Audi-BMW

BentLey

a6 good-looking, accomplished executive saloon – now with that beardy front grille after the redesign. PRicE

35TDI S-Line RS6 Avant

69 189

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

4cyl 1968cc 188 400 NA 8.62 12.45 7/10 8cyl 3993cc 552 700 NA 3.7 5.5 9/10

L: 4933mm, w: 1874mm h: 1455mm boot: 530 litres Fuel tank: 65 litre ground clearance: 118mm

a8 L

PRicE

PRicE

197 163 190

ENGiNE

bhp

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

8cyl 3993cc 429 600 250 NA 6cyl 2967cc 246 580 250 6.5 8cyl 4134cc 379 850 250 5.16

NA 7.4 8

7/10 7/10 8/10

Nm

q3 audi says this rivals the range rover evoque! not sure about that, but it’s definitely capable. ENGiNE

35TDI q Plus 49.54 4cyl 1968cc S Edition 39.83 4cyl 1968cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

177 380 212 7.94 11 138 320 NA 7.94 11.04

RATiNG

7/10 7/10

L: 4388mm, w: 1831mm h: 1608mm boot: 460 litres, Fuel tank: 64 litre, ground clearance: na

ENGiNE

71.16 4cyl 1968cc 67.45 6cyl 2967cc

bhp

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

174 380 NA NA 241 580 225 6.5

NA 12.2

7/10 7/10

Nm

Technology

103

GT GT Speed Flying Spur V8 Flying Spur W12 GT V8 GTC

kph 0-100

6.8

kpl

RATiNG

10.7

8/10

V10 Plus

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

344 10cyl 5204cc 602 560 NA 3.77

4.1

-

L: 4426mm, w: 1940mm h: 1240mm boot: 112 litre, Fuel tank: 73 litre, ground clearance: na

S5

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

89.69 6cyl 2995cc 330 440 250 5.1

kpl

RATiNG

6.7

8/10

still the cheapest two-seat sportscar around. now more thorough than ever before. TT 45 TFSI

bhp

kpl

RATiNG

318 330 NA 320 303 314

6.2 6 NA 5.8 na 5.8

8/10 8/10 8/10 8/10 8/10 8/10

4.8 4.5 NA 5.2 4.8 5.1

Nm

kph 0-100

86.76 4cyl 1984cc 226 370 250

6

kpl

RATiNG

NA

8/10

L: 4177mm, w: 1832mm h: 1353mm boot: 305 litres Fuel tank: 55 litres ground clearance: na

January 2017 →

TOPGEar.cOm

RATiNG

8.1 NA

8/10 9/10

155*

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

8cyl 4395cc 442 650 250 NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

-

kpl

RATiNG

i8 a sci-fi fantasy brought to life. a hybrid sportscar. the i8 is a combination of both, and it is spectacular PRicE

i8

229*

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

3cyl 1499cc 356 570 NA 5.21 15.2

8/10

L: 4239mm w: 1790mm h: 1291mm boot: na, Fuel tank: 90 litre, ground clearance: na

the M3 coupe lives on, but with a new name: the M4. now powered by a turbocharged six-pot motor.

567*

ENGiNE

bhp

PRicE Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

8cyl 6752cc 505 1020 296 5.3

5.9

7/10

M4 Coupe

ENGiNE

bhp

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

9/10

right size, right price, perfect for the urban yuppie. now looks the part, and has more space than before PRicE

ENGiNE

52.48 4cyl 1995cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

187 400 NA 7.89 12.05 7/10

L: 4439mm w: 1821mm h: 1612mm boot: 420 litres, Fuel tank: 51 litre, ground clearance: na

X3 Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

147 320 215 8.91 13.3

RATiNG

7/10

a well-sorted car tailored for the world we live in, now with squared-off corona rings. PRicE

20d xLine 30d M Sport

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

68.66 4cyl 1995cc 188 400 NA 77.56 6cyl 2993cc 255 560 NA

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

7/10 7/10

L: 4657mm w: 1880mm h: 1678mm boot: na, Fuel tank: 67 litre, ground clearance: 194mm

the 3 has always been the best sport saloon since it was born. the new 3 is still so. ENGiNE

ENGiNE

6cyl 2979cc 425 550 NA

L: 4671mm w: 1870mm h: 1383mm boot: na Fuel tank: 57 litres, ground clearance: na

xDrive20d M Sport

39.94 4cyl 1995cc

119*

X1

the country’s only rwd hatchback. Fun to drive, but is it as good as the a-class?

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

54.62 4cyl 1995cc 188 400 235 7.33 14.2 55.37 4cyl 1995cc 188 400 NA 7.3 13.8 121* 6cyl 2979cc 425 550 na 4.92 NA

RATiNG

8/10 8/10 9/10

X5 Fatter new seven-seat X5 places it firmly in a size category above the X3 now – thankfully, it’s bigger inside, too. PRicE

30d 7-str X5M

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

96.36 6cyl 2993cc 254 560 210 8.3 155* 8cyl 4395cc 571 700 NA 4.5

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

10.8 6

7/10 8/10

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

6cyl 2993cc 308 630 NA 6.18 8cyl 4395cc 571 700 NA 4.16

8.6 6

8/10 7/10

L: 4886mm, w: 1938mm h: 1762mm boot: 620 litres, Fuel tank: 85 litre, ground clearance: 212mm

5 series

520d Luxury 525d Luxury Plus 530d M Sport M5

kpl

M4

a return to form for the ‘5’, with more palatable styling, a better ride and bMw’s stock-in-trade quality.

tt ENGiNE

kph 0-100

720 820 660 820 660 700

L: 4824mm w: 1811mm h: 1429mm boot: na Fuel tank: 60 litres, ground clearance: na

L: 4718mm w: 1854mm h: 1382mm boot: 480 litres Fuel tank: 61 litre ground clearance: na

PRicE

Nm

582 626 500 626 500 567

BMW

320d Luxury line 320d GT M3

a middle-of-the-road concoction for the sensible (wealthy) man who likes to have some fun once a while. ENGiNE

bhp

12cyl 5998cc 12cyl 5998cc 8cyl 3993cc 12cyl 5998cc 8cyl 3993cc 12cyl 5998cc

PRicE

s5 PRicE

ENGiNE

356* 400* 310* 340* 329* 388*

3 series Nm

Nm

L: na, w: na h: na boot: na, Fuel tank: na ground clearance: na

L: 4324mm w: 1765mm h: 1421mm boot: na Fuel tank: 52 litres, ground clearance: na

think the Lamborghini huracan is too over-the-top? audi’s got a sober-er version of vag’s v10 supercar

bhp

Much improved super saloon is now a match for the class-whipping Mercedesbenz s-class. PRicE

PRicE

PRicE

r8

ENGiNE

7 series

750Li M Sport

L: 5575mm, w: 1926mm h: 1521mm boot: 443 litres, Fuel tank: 96 litre, ground clearance: na

118d Sport Line

bhp

-

1 series Nm

6cyl 2967cc 245 600 NA

ENGiNE

RATiNG

na

L: 4800-5299mm, w: 2225mm h: 1401-1488mm boot: 358 litres, Fuel tank: 90 litre, ground clearance: na

L: 5052mm, w: 1968mm h: 1740mm boot: 295 litre Fuel tank: 75 litre ground clearance: na

PRicE

kpl

TopGear on BMW: A model of German efficiency, the firm still prides itself on making supremely engineered cars aimed at the driver.

a capable and competitively priced seven-seat suv that’ll put the frighteners on Mercedes and bMw. bhp

na

sumptuous, superb over distances, with more appeal to younger millionaires.

Mulsanne

q7 ENGiNE

kph 0-100

ContinentaL

PRicE

L: 4629mm, w: 1898mm h: 1655mm boot: 540 litres, Fuel tank: 75 litre, ground clearance: 205mm

PRicE

Nm

if the bentayga doesn’t float your boat, here’s something that will rock it: the most bad-ass limo bentley makes

it may not have the panache of the Q7 that bollywood loves, but the Q5 does mean business. PRicE

bhp

385* 12cyl 5950cc 600 900 301

MuLsanne

q5

30 TDI Technology 45 TDI Technology

ENGiNE

kph 0-100

6cyl 2993cc 308 630 250 5.52 8cyl 4395cc 552 680 NA NA

L: 4890mm, w: 1890mm h: 1392mm boot: na, Fuel tank: 70 litre, ground clearance: 123mm

L: 5140mm, w: 1998mm h: 1742mm boot: 484 litres, Fuel tank: 85 litre, ground clearance: na

L: 5265mm, w: 1949mm h: 1471mm boot: 520 litres, Fuel tank: 82 litre, ground clearance: 124mm

PRicE

640d Design Pure Exp NA M6 NA

brace yourselves, earthlings: the world’s biggest, grandest, most expensive suv has arrived. PRicE

60 TFSI Quattro 3.0 TDI 4.2 TDI Quattro

the best all-round tourer in india. now fresher thanks to a mid-life facelift build: import

BentayGa

W12

you can’t ask for a more perfect car than this. not for ordinary mortals.

10 8

6 series Gran Coupe

TopGear on Bentley: Has got a new lease of life with an injection of Volkswagen cash, but still as British as the monarchy.

X6

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

68.79 68.17 78.81 NA

4cyl 1995cc 4cyl 1995cc 6cyl 2993cc 8cyl 4395cc

188 214 254 552

400 450 560 680

226 226 250 NA

NA 7/10 NA 7/10 11.4 8/10 5 9/10

8.3 8.3 6.13 4.98

L: 4907mm, w: 1860mm h: 1462mm boot: 520 litres, Fuel tank: 70 litre, ground clearance: 158mm

RATiNG

it’s an suv! no, it’s a coupe! no, it’s both. bMw has stretched the boundaries for a ‘niche’ product. PRicE

40d X6M

151 160*

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

L: 4909mm, w: 1989mm h: 1702mm boot: 620 litres, Fuel tank: 85 litre, ground clearance: 212mm

PRicE

Z4 SDrive 35is

109*

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

6cyl 2979cc 301 400 250 6.07

5.5

6/10

1

FoRD ECosPoRT

L: 4239mm w: 1790mm h: 1291mm boot: na, Fuel tank: 90 litre, ground clearance: na

Price `13.37 lakh, Specs 1498cc, 90bhp, 204Nm

CHeVroLet TopGear on Chevrolet: Made its mark with confident design and products like the Cruze and the Beat. Buyers are slowly showing that confidence too.

Beat another smart new chevy design. tries hard to play city car and highway cruiser roles. succeeds reasonably. LT Opt LT Opt Diesel

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

6.38 8.13

4cyl 1199cc 3cyl 936cc

77 56

106 150 142 150

kph 0-100

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA 17

5/10 5/10

The first sub-four metre SUV. While many have followed after it, the EcoSport is still the best implementation of a compact, high groundclearance car for four and a half people, quite a bit of luggage and a whole lot of versatility. Good to drive, too.

2

CruZe this car can leave wet spot marks on the tros of the civic and the corolla.

LTZ AT

21.89 4cyl 1998cc

3 Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

164 360 200 9.8

11.5

7/10

Price `15.84* lakh, Specs 2179cc, 140bhp, 330Nm

enjoy the enjoy is chevrolet’s answer to the Maruti ertiga. Petrol pretty quick, diesel decently efficient. reasonably priced too. PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

9.08

4cyl 1248cc

74

172

na

15

5/10

19.7

L: 4305mm, w: 1680mm, h: 1750mm, boot: 195 litres, Fuel tank: 50 litre, ground clearance: 170mm

saiL u-Va PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

7.65 9.34

4cyl 1199cc 4cyl 1248cc

82 74

108 NA 13.85 13.2 190 NA 14.8 14.7

kph 0-100

kpl

5/10 5/10

saiL Pocket-friendly pricing, neat styling and good ride. should put chevrolet back in to the entry-sedan game PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

7.15 8.83 10.54

4cyl 1199cc 4cyl 1199cc 4cyl 1248cc

82 82 74

108 NA NA NA 4/10 108 NA NA NA 4/10 190 NA 15.02 14.72 4/10

L: 4249mm w: 1690mm h: 1503mm boot: 370 litres, Fuel tank: 42 litre, ground clearance: 174mm

bigger than a Fortuner, more powerful than a Fortuner. why won’t you look at it?

LTZ 2WD AT

PRicE

ENGiNE

31.37

4cyl 2776cc

bhp

Nm

Perhaps the best automobile. It does great ride, great handling, excellent steering feel and comes with front-wheel and all-wheeldrive. Being a CKD, it is pricier than it needs to be. But if you get a good deal, it’s the best automobile you could buy.

5

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

197 500 NA 10.4

NA

7/10

L: 4878mm w: 2132mm h: 1851mm boot: 205 litres Fuel tank: na ground clearance: 253mm

bhp

Nm

3cyl 1198cc

67

104 NA 15.2 12.2

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

4/10

Go+ a go that thinks it’s an MPv. it does have seats for seven, yes, and it is just as barebones as the hatchback PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

6.18

3cyl 1198cc

67

104 NA

kph 0-100

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

5/10

L: 3995mm w: 1635mm h: 1490mm boot: 347 litres Fuel tank: 35 litre ground clearance: 170mm

DATA IN NumBERs: The price of space → Datsun Go+: 69k between this 7-seater and the Go 4 and a few seater

redi-Go spun off the kwid platform, the third new-age datsun is the most promising of the lot PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

4.24

3cyl 799cc

53

72

NA

NA

7/10

NA

L: 3429mm w: 1560mm h: 1541mm boot: 222 litres Fuel tank: 28 litre ground clearance: 185mm

Ferrari TopGear on Ferrari: Iconic Italian marque with a huge back-catalogue of fabulous cars and motorsport successes. The envy of the automotive world.

488 spider saddened by the 458 spider’s ing? don’t be. here’s the 488 spider to wipe your tears PRicE

NA

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

8cyl 4499cc 660 760 NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

10/10

488 GtB the evolution of the 458. turbocharged, but still one hell of a machine. PRicE

488 GTB

ENGiNE

RENAulT DusTER First there was nothing. Then there was the Duster. Before the Duster, affordable SUVs always meant iffy handling, bumpy ride and vague steerings. The Duster changed it all. Looks cool, too.

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

388* 8cyl 3902cc 661 760 NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

9/10

L: 4568mm w: 1952mm h: 1213mm boot: 230 litres Fuel tank: 78 litre, ground clearance: na

CaLiFornia t the california is a lovely (now twinturbocharged) drop-top tourer. PRicE

Price `16.24 lakh Specs 1461cc, 108bhp, 245Nm

traiLBLaZer

ENGiNE

5.24

L: 4530mm w: 1940mm h: 1210mm boot: 230 litres Fuel tank: 86 litre, ground clearance: na

Price `27.03 lakh, Specs 1968cc, 138bhp, 320Nm

RATiNG

PRicE

L: 3785mm w: 1635mm h: 1485mm boot: 265 litres Fuel tank: 35 litre ground clearance: 170mm

Spider

skoDA yETI

L: 3946mm w: 1960mm h: cm boot: 248 litres, Fuel tank: 42 litre, ground clearance: 174mm

1.2 1.2 LT ABS 1.3 TCDi LT ABS

Not the ideal SUV if you are stickler for road dynamics, technical abilities and subtle design. But if you want something with a loud design, a lot of features, good comfort and a lot of space for not much money, well, you are looking at your car.

4

it’s a no-nonsense car in a country with way better no-nonsense cars

LT ABS Petrol LT ABS Diesel

T

S

mAHINDRA XuV500

L: 4597mm w: 1788mm h: 1477mm boot: na Fuel tank: na ground clearance: 165mm

LTZ Diesel 7STR

essentially a Micra that doesn’t look like one, and cheaper too. win-win!

T

Redefines the idea of a compact SUV. It’s longer than four metres. But is even more better for it. Has nearly every feature you want, none that you don’t. And road dynamics match and better the European lot.

→ Beat: (LT Opt diesel): `8.13 lakh → sail u-VA: (LT ABS diesel): `9.91 lakh → sail: (TCdi LT ABS): `10.39 lakh

bhp

Go

Price `16.92 lakh, Specs 1582cc, 126bhp, 260Nm

DATA IN NumBERs: cosTly lil’ chevys

ENGiNE

TopGear on Datsun: It’s back from the dead: Nissan has revived Datsun, only this time, it’s to sell inexpensive hatches and micro-MPVs

HyuNDAI CRETA

L: 3640mm w: 1595mm h: 1550mm boot: na, Fuel tank: 45 litre, ground clearance: 175mm

PRicE

SUVs

datsun

California T

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

340* 8cyl 3855cc 552.5 755 310 3.6

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

NA

8/10

kpl

RATiNG

NA

10/10

L: 4569mm w: 1910mm h: 1320mm boot: 240 litres Fuel tank: 78 litre ground clearance: na

F12 BerLinetta spearheading the charge of the Ferrari coupes. still keeping the v12 flag flying high PRicE

F12

NA

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

12cyl 6262cc 730 690 NA

NA

L: 4618mm w: 1942mm h: 1273mm boot: na Fuel tank: 92 litre ground clearance: na TOPGEar.cOm

→

January 2017

109

BMW-FerrAri

TopGear Top five

Z4 bMw’s answer to Merc’s sLk and Porsche’s cayman. it’s fast. it’s topless and it drives well.

FerrAri-HONdA

TopGear Top five

FF spearheading the charge of the Ferrari coupes. still keeping the v12 flag flying high PRicE

FF

NA

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

12cyl 6262cc 651 683 332 3.7

kpl

RATiNG

NA

10/10

1

mARuTI CIAz

L: 4900mm w: 1950mm h: 1370mm boot: 450 litres Fuel tank: 92 litre ground clearance: na

Price `10.63 lakh Specs 1248cc, 89bhp, 200Nm

Fiat

After the SX4, Maruti needed a worthy car to take its place. The Ciaz offers everything that buyer of a family sedan is looking for, plus sound dynamics. Goes without saying that Maruti’s wide network through the country backs it up to make it a wise man’s choice.

TopGear on Fiat: Seems to make characterful and beautiful cars even in their sleep. The Punto and Linea are brilliant.

aBartH 595 the 500 with the kind of sting only the abarth division can provide. but, it has to fight the Mini... PRicE

595 Competizione

ENGiNE

38.78 4cyl 1368cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

158 230 NA 10.03 11.55 6/10

2

L: 3657mm w: 1627mm h: 1485mm boot: 280 litres Fuel tank: 45 litre ground clearance: na

Price `13.8 lakh, Specs 1498cc, 103bhp, 250Nm

big sedan loaded to the brim with features at a bargain price. PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

8.77 11.9 10.47* 9.25

4cyl 1368cc 4cyl 1248cc 4cyl 1368cc 4cyl 1248cc

90 91 123 76

115 209 209 197

168 15.6 8 NA NA NA 190 10.28 13.1 NA NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

6/10 6/10 8/10 6/10

The Vento is the best handling family sedan. Be it expressways or mountains, the Vento handles better than any other rival. Its DSG auto gearbox offers buyers the sort of tech that’s available only in a segment above.

punto eVo

Dynamic 1.2 Emotion 1.3 D Sport Avventura 1.3 D Emotion Abarth Punto Avventura by Abarth

Price `9.78 lakh, Specs 1197cc, 71bhp, 180Nm

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

6.96 9.54 10.52 12.26* 10.3*

4cyl 1172cc 4cyl 1248cc 4cyl 1248cc 4cyl 1368cc 4cyl 1368cc

67 92 89 145 140

96 209 209 212 210

175 NA 13 7/10 170 13.6 12.6 7/10 NA NA NA 7/10 NA 9.41 11.55 8/10 NA 9.6 NA 8/10

L: 3987mm w: 1687mm h: 1495mm boot: na Fuel tank: 45 litre ground clearance 185-205mm

Call it a Grand i10 with a boot, or Hyundai’s answer to the Maruti DZire, the Xcent has set a new benchmark in the sub 4-metre category. It offers the benefit of a campact car to ease the stress of city driving, yet offering the practicality of a sedan.

one Mechanically sound car, refined engine and good ride. Let down by interior quality and cabin design execution. LX 4x4

NA

4cyl 2149cc

bhp

Nm

140 321

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA

NA

4/10

NA

L: 4860mm w: 1780mm h: 1885mm boot: na Fuel tank: na, ground clearance: na

NIssAN suNNy

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

8.38 9.88

4cyl 1199cc 4cyl 1498cc

87 99

112 215

NA 14.1 13.2 NA 14.62 NA

RATiNG

7/10 7/10

L: 3995mm w: 1695mm h: 1525mm boot: 359litre Fuel tank: 40-42 litre ground clearance: 174mm

11 0

For a family sedan, it is important to be a comfortable even for the engers. With the space at the rear, the Sunny is one of the finest family sedans. Add to that the ride quality, big boot and an efficient CVT, it is the perfect solution for a buyer looking for a decent drive and good cabin space.

January 2017 →

TOPGEar.cOm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

endeaVour

4x2 Trend MT 4x4 Titanium AT

PRicE

ENGiNE

32 38

4cyl 2198cc 5cyl 3198cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

158 385 NA 13.6 9.45 198 470 NA 11.2 8.6

RATiNG

6/10 7/10

Fiesta the new Fiesta is a changed animal with its new aston Martin-esque front end, but still familiar. PRicE

1.5 Titanium D

ENGiNE

bhp

9.69* 4cyl 1498cc

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

89 204 NA 11.18 12.35 6/10

L: 4290mm w: 1720mm h: 1468mm boot: 430litre Fuel tank: 43 litre, ground clearance: 156mm

1.2 Titanium + P 1.5 Titanium + D

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

7.75 8.99

4cyl 1196cc 4cyl 1498cc

87 99

112 215

NA NA

NA NA

7/10 7/10

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA

NA

8/10

NA NA

L: 3886mm, w: 1695mm h: 1525mm boot: 520 litres, Fuel tank: 88 litre ground clearance: 174mm

MustanG brawny sports coupe that lives up to its muscle car lineage. Powerful, sexy and practical... almost. ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

86.62 8cyl 4951cc 395 515

NA

Honda TopGear on Honda: Enjoys a brand value only German cars can beat. City continues to dominate its segment.

aCCord big honda saloon is back; this time in hybrid flavour. comfortable, spacious, decent to drive. a tad pricey Hybrid

ENGiNE

53.16 4cyl 1993cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

212 315 NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

8/10

L: 4933mm w: 1849mm h: 1464mm boot: na Fuel tank: 60 litre ground clearance: na

Price `10.09 lakh, Specs 1498cc, 99bhp, 215Nm

the most dynamically sound sub-four metre sedan in india. Priced well, too.

Titanium + 1.2 P Titanium + 1.5 D

Price `12.72 lakh, Specs 1461cc, 85bhp, 200Nm

FoRD FIGo AsPIRE

FiGo aspire

Nm

110 140 NA 13.75 12 7/10 90 204 NA 12.6 13.65 7/10

L: 4784mm w: 2080mm h: 1391mm boot: 408 litre Fuel tank: 61 litre, ground clearance: 137mm

5

TopGear on Ford: Makes some of the best driver’s cars in India. Right now in a period of transition. Good thing is their best is yet to come.

bhp

the endy has returned. it now packs in a lot more muscle, and comes with plenty of goodies.

PRicE

Ford

PRicE

4cyl 1499cc 4cyl 1498cc

L: 3995mm w: 1765mm h: 1708mm boot: 346 litres Fuel tank: 52 litre, ground clearance: 200mm

GT

4

TopGear on Force: After selling UV to the rural market, Force has decided to the ranks of Tata and Mahindra with home-grown SUVs.

ENGiNE

ENGiNE

12.16 12.49

PRicE

ForCe

PRicE

PRicE

with that aston Martin-like face, the new Figo does look pretty handsome. it’s well-equipped, too.

HyuNDAI XCENT

Looks incredible, drives well, priced competitively. there’s an abarth version, too! PRicE

1.5 Titanium P AT 1.5 Titanium + D

FiGo

3

L: 4560mm, w: 1730mm h: 1487-1494mm boot: 500 litre, Fuel tank: 45 litre, ground clearance: 185mm

this compact suv will be a game changer for the company. Looks good and drives well too.

L: 4892mm w: 1860mm h: 1837mm boot: na Fuel tank: 80 litre ground clearance: 225mm

VW VENTo

Linea

Dynamic Dynamic D 125 S Classic Plus Multijet Diesel

Family SedanS

eCosport

Based on an all-new platform, the Aspire is proof that you don’t need to spend obscene amount of money to get yourself a nice driving family sedan. Available in both, petrol and diesel, the Aspire gives the buyer ample flexibility and better-than-average ride and handling characteristics.

aMaZe honda’s answer to Maruti’s dZire. First oil-burning honda to hit indian shores PRicE

VX CVT VX i-DTEC

ENGiNE

10.49 4cyl 1198cc 10.61 4cy l 1498cc

bhp

kpl

RATiNG

88 109 NA NA NA 99 200 NA 12.21 16.8

Nm

kph 0-100

7/10 6/10

L: 3990mm w: 1680mm h: 1505mm boot: 400 litres Fuel tank: 35 litre, ground clearance: 165mm

Creta

tusCon

Looks like a facelift but its all-new underneath. brings in more space, features and upmarket feel.

a real rival to the renault duster. could’ve been priced lower, but is still a sweet deal.

strengthens hyundai’s suv portfolio by filling up the gap left open by the bigger santa Fe and the smaller creta.

PRicE

VX VX CVT VX i-DTEC

ENGiNE

13.7 4cyl 1497cc 15 4cyl 1497cc 15.82 4cyl 1498cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

117 145 NA NA NA 7/10 117 145 NA NA NA 6/10 99 200 NA 13.44 16.95 6/10

L: 4440mm w: 1695mm h: 1495mm boot: 510 litres, Fuel tank: 40 litre, ground clearance: 165mm

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

7.49 8.53

4cyl 1198cc 4cyl 1198cc

87 87

109 NA NA 16.5 7/10 109 NA 14.59 16.5 7/10

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

L: 3610mm w: 1680mm h: 1500mm boot: na Fuel tank: 35 litre, ground clearance: 165mm

15 16.42

4cyl 1497cc 4cyl 1498cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

117 145 NA 99 200 NA

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

7/10 7/10

L: 4453mm w: 1735mm h: 1666mm boot: na Fuel tank: na, ground clearance: 210mm

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

6/10 6/10

Nm

kph 0-100

90 110 NA 98 200 NA

14.1 NA

kpl

RATiNG

15.2 NA

7/10 6/10

L: 3955mm w: 1694mm h: 1544mm boot: 354 litre Fuel tank: 40 litre ground clearance: 165mm

Sportz 1.0 Magna

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

5.22 5.39

3cyl 814cc 3cyl 998cc

55 68

75 94

NA NA

NA 4/10 16.15 6/10

NA 14

RATiNG

L: 3515mm w: 1500mm h: 1510mm boot: 215 litre, Fuel tank: 32 litre, ground clearance: 170mm

2.0 SX(0) P AT 1.6 SX D AT

ENGiNE

27 31.5

4cyl 1999cc 4cyl 1995cc

PRicE

ENGiNE

22 24.13

4cyl 1999cc 4cyl 1582cc

bhp

Asta (O) Asta D

PRicE

1.2 Kappa SX (O) AT 8.64 1.1 CRDi SX (O) 9.97

ENGiNE

15.77

4cyl 1498cc

Nm

kph 0-100

150 192 NA 126 260 NA

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

7/10 7/10

ENGiNE

8.76 4cyl 1396cc 11.15 4cyl 1396cc 12.22 4cyl 1396cc

bhp

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

82 71

114 NA 180 NA

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

L: 4380mm w: 1680mm h: 1603mm boot: na Fuel tank: 42 litre ground clearance: 189mm

TopGear on Hyundai: With the i10, i20 and the new Verna, their cars are actually scoring pretty high on the desirability quotient.

4s Verna

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

82 115 NA 11.91 NA 89 220 NA NA NA 89 220 NA 14.1 16.3

7/10 7/10 8/10

PRicE

ENGiNE

1.4 CRDi 11.38 4cyl 1396cc 1.6 SX (O) CRDi AT 16.55 4cyl 1582cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

89 220 NA NA NA 126 260 NA 11.79 13.3

L: 4375mm w: 1700mm h: 1475mm boot: 465 litre, Fuel tank: 43 litre, ground clearance: na

RATiNG

7/10 5/10

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

7.42 8.73

4cyl 1197cc 3cyl 1120cc

82 71

114 NA NA NA 7/10 180 NA 15.94 16.35 7/10

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

ENGiNE

28.06 4cyl 2999cc

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

161 360 NA 12.54 10.55 6/10

it’s a pick-up unlike any other. seats five, gets plenty of features. a lot of metal for the money PRicE

V-Cross 4x4

ENGiNE

15.32 4cyl 2499cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

132 320 NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

-

F-paCe Jaguar’s first attempt at making an suv, and what an attempt it is. it’ll do pretty much everything you ask it to ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

92.93 4cyl 1999cc 174 430 NA 160 6cyl 2993cc 292 700 NA

NA 7.2

kpl

RATiNG

NA 9.1

8/10

the F-type continues the legacy of the e-type, never mind the 50 year break between the two PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

4cyl 1086cc

66

99

NA

NA

6/10

NA

S Convertible R Coupe

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

179* 6cyl 2995cc 375 460 250 4.19 5.35 7/10 186* 8cyl 5000cc 542 680 na 4.2 4.45 8/10

L: 4470mm w: 1920mm h: 1308-1321mm boot: 200 litres Fuel tank: 72 litres, ground clearance: na

Xe Finally, Jaguar has provided a credible alternative to the c-class and 3-series. only available in petrol, for now

hyundai takes the fight to honda cr-v’s door step. also comes with diesel engine. build: assembled 40.58 4cyl 2199cc

bhp

F-type

L: 3585mm w: 1595mm h: 1550mm boot: 235 litres Fuel tank: 35 litre, ground clearance: 165mm

4WD AT

6/10 7/10

L: 4731mm w: 2070mm h: 1651mm boot: na Fuel tank: na, ground clearance: na

5.92

bhp

RATiNG

NA NA

think Fortuner, but not from toyota. Lots of space and brute force. build: assembled

Pure R-Sport

PRicE

ENGiNE

kpl

TopGear on Jaguar: Turning out brilliant driver’s cars. The XF is lovely, and the new engines are as good as anything out there.

PRicE

PRicE

NA NA

jaGuar

i10

Sportz

kph 0-100

L: 5295mm w: 1860cm h: 1840mm boot: na Fuel tank: na, ground clearance: 225mm

santa Fe

hyundai’s champion mid-size warrior. now with the power of four ses

NA 7/10

d-MaX V-Cross

another excellent compact hatch from hyundai. Massively practical, very sophisticated for such a small car.

Hyundai

RATiNG

NA NA

L: 4955mm w: 1800cm h: 1805mm boot: na Fuel tank: 76 litre, ground clearance: 210mm

→ Hyundai Grand i10 1.2 P 82bhp → Ford Figo 1.2 P 87bhp

RATiNG

kpl

Mu-7 PRicE

L: 3765mm w: 1660mm h: 1520mm boot: 235 litre Fuel tank: 43 litre, ground clearance: na

99 200 NA 15.91 13.1 XXX/10

NA NA

TopGear on Isuzu: Known for their low-cost, reliable diesel engines. Full local manufacture begins in 2015.

DATA IN NumBERs: power push bhp

kph 0-100

4cyl1197cc 3cyl1197cc

PRicE

PRicE

Nm

153 192 NA 183 402 NA

L: 3995mm w: 1660mm h: 1520mm boot: 470 litre Fuel tank: 43 litre, ground clearance: na

Automatic

Asta 1.2 P Asta 1.4 D Active 1.4 SX D

honda’s first shot at the budget MPv segment, the Mobilio sports a touch more design flair than the rest.

bhp

isuZu

L:4570mm w: 1800mm h: 1465mm boot: na, Fuel tank: 50 litre, ground clearance: na

MoBiLio

RS

PRicE

hyundai has a go at the under-four metre sedan segment with the weirdly-named Xcent.

hyundai finds and fills a gap between the i10 and the i20, and this one fits the bill perfectly. bhp

2WD AT 2WD AT Diesel

L: 4475mm w: 1850mm h: 1655mm boot: na Fuel tank: 62 litre ground clearance: 172mm

Grand i10

tons of space on offer. very practical, very versatile, not as on the inside as the elite i20. ENGiNE

8/10 8/10

L: 3985mm w: 1734mm h: 1505mm boot: 295 litre Fuel tank: 45 litre, ground clearance: 170mm

jaZZ PRicE

RATiNG

NA 13

XCent

PRicE

30 4cyl 1997cc 154 190 NA 11.45 9.15 32.84 4cyl 2354cc 187 226 NA 11.62 9.4

10.29 4cyl 1199cc 11.43 4cyl 1498cc

kpl

L: 4270mm w: 1780mm h: 1630mm boot: na Fuel tank: 45 litre ground clearance: 170mm

L: 4544mm w: 1820mm h: 1685mm boot: na Fuel tank: 58 litre, ground clearance: 170mm

V Petrol CVT VX Diesel

Nm

the brand-new i20 is as good as most others in its class. a hatch in the truest sense of the term.

suave, comfortable, handles well and has a great engine. it has a terrific image as well. PRicE

kph 0-100

88 220 NA NA 126 260 NA 11.42

eLite i20

Cr-V

2L AT 2.4L AT AVN

bhp

hyundai has given the elantra a complete overhaul. it’s flamboyant, feature-rich and much better to drive, now.

not as impressive a package as its strongest rivals, but offers two extra seats V CVT VX MT Diesel

4cyl 1396cc 4cyl 1582cc

eLantra

Br-V ENGiNE

ENGiNE

15.41 18.47

the eon is an interesting little number. it has what you want from an entry-level city car, even if not in the best possible way.

a complete young family hatch, comes with an aggresive price tag.

PRicE

PRicE

eon

Brio

VX VX AT

S+ 1.4 D SX+ 1.6 D Auto

PRicE Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

194 436 NA 9.17 10.5

L: 4690mm w: 1880mm h: 1690mm boot: 969 litres Fuel tank: 64 litre, ground clearance: 185mm

RATiNG

7/10

Pure Portfolio

ENGiNE

48.83 4cyl 1999cc 58.59 4cyl 1999cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

197 320 NA NA 237 340 237 7.6

kpl

RATiNG

NA 10.7

8/10

L: 4795cm w: 1967mm h: 1416mm boot: 455 litre Fuel tank: 63 litre, ground clearance: 110mm TOPGEar.cOm

→

January 2017

111

HONdA-JAGuAr

City

JAGuAr - MAHiNdrA

Land roVer

XF this model has brought Jag to the same level as its german counterparts. it drives as good as it looks. PRicE

2.0L D Portfolio 2.0L P Portfolio

ENGiNE

81.89 4cyl 1999cc 81.56 4cyl 1999cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

177 430 NA 237 340 NA

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

-

L: 5067mm w: na h: 1457mm boot: 505 litre Fuel tank: 66 litre, ground clearance: na

disCoVery sport

HSE TD4 HSE Luxury SD4

Xj british engineering at its finest, good option for buyers looking for a big nongerman luxury sedan. 2.0L Petrol Portfolio 123 3.0L Diesel Portfolio 133

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

4cyl 1999cc 237 340 NA 9.65 10.55 8/10 6cyl 2993cc 271 600 230 6.6 NA 8/10

PRicE

ENGiNE

81.4

4cyl 2179cc

WranGLer Nm

kph 0-100

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

-

L: 4583mm w: 1877mm h: 1829mm boot: 884 litres Fuel tank: 85 litre, ground clearance: 238mm

PRicE

the more rugged alternative to an audi Q7 or a volvo Xc90. also comes with a glorious heMi v8. ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA 4

8/10

L: 4828mm w: 1943mm h: 1802mm boot: 1025 litres Fuel tank: 93.5 litre, ground clearance: 206mm

TopGear on Lamborghini: Audi-owned Lambo is firing on all cylinders, with its strongest model range yet and enough attitude to keep devotees happy.

aVentador

LP700-4 LP700-4 Roadster

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

485* 12cyl 6500cc 691 690 350 2.9 NA 12cyl 6500cc 691 690 350 3.0

4.3 4.3

8/10 8/10

7/10

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

12 8.4 NA

8/10 8/10 8/10

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

8/10 8/10

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

6cyl 2993cc 288 600 208 7.54 9.25 8/10 8cyl 4999cc 503 680 222 7.4 NA 8/10 8cyl 4999cc 543 680 260 5.7 5 9/10

L: 4459mm w: 1924mm h: 1165mm boot: na Fuel tank: 90 litres, ground clearance: na

January 2017 →

TOPGEar.cOm

4cyl 2179cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

120 280 NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

7/10

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

10.65 4cyl 2498cc 105 247 138 15.2

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

11.6

7/10

its looks may not be everyone’s cup of tea (or coffee), but this car is one of Mahindra’s finest efforts till date. PRicE

ENGiNE

11.12

4cyl 1493cc

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

100 240 NA 18.6

bhp

Nm

11.6

6/10

Verito spacious, solid and a super ride. to top that, it comes with mouth-watering price tags. also available in full-electric form PRicE

1.5 D6 eVerito

ENGiNE

bhp

10.83 4cyl 1461cc 65 12.32 72V AC motor 41

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

160 165 17.4 91 NA NA

Nm

18.9 NA

6/10 -

L: 4247mm w: 1740mm h: 1540mm boot: 510 litres Fuel tank: 50 litres, ground clearance: 172mm

Verito ViBe a verito minus the boot. but don’t mistake it for a hatch, it’s a super-compact sedan with 330litres of boot space.

dinosaur bones, but surprisingly competent. cheap, rugged, but cramped. now available as a sub-4m offering, too PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

9.53 8.31

4cyl 2523cc 3cyl 1493cc

63 70

195 132 27.6 195 NA NA

11.5 NA

6/10 5/10

D6

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

9.01

4cyl 1461cc

64

160 NA 16.57

14

4/10

L: 3990mm w: 1740mm h: 1540mm boot: 330 litres Fuel tank: 50 litres, ground clearance: 172mm

XuV 500 its heart is in the right place, but the dynamic chinks need ironing out.

if you’re the kind who loves the arctic icebergs and is concerned about global warming, this one is for you. PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

6.30

3-phase DC

25

53

80

NA

5/10

NA

W10 AWD

PRicE

ENGiNE

23.6

4cyl 2179cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

140 330 NA 12.3 11.15

RATiNG

7/10

L: 4500mm w: 1850mm h: 1785mm boot: na Fuel tank: 55 litres, ground clearance: 186mm

XyLo innova-slayer with the sedan market in sight. big, spacious and value-for-money

Mahindra’s attempt at stealing the swift’s spotlight. as big as a hatch, pretty spacious, but looks divide opinion. K8 5-seater Diesel

ENGiNE

18.74

L: 3995mm w: 1835mm h: 1839mm boot: 384 litres Fuel tank: 60 litres ground clearance: 184mm

KuV100

343* 10cyl 5204cc 602 560 NA 299* 10cyl 5204cc 570 540 NA

RATiNG

tuV300

L: 3280mm w: 1510mm h: 1560mm boot: na Fuel tank: na, ground clearance: 180mm

the successor to the hugely-popular gallardo, the new baby Lambo packs an incredible punch.

kpl

old-school suv with a go-anywhere attitude.

T8

TopGear on Mahindra: Crossed the fence from crude to refined. They do look intent on making it big on the world stage over the decade.

SLE Power+ SLE

kph 0-100

L: 3920mm w: 1726mm h: 1930mm boot: na Fuel tank: 60 litres ground clearance: 210mm

6cyl 2993cc 244 600 215 7.9 8cyl 4367cc 335 740 215 7.21 8cyl 4999cc 503 625 230 5.4

ENGiNE

Nm

tHar

CRDe

MaHindra

T2

HuraCan

11 2

RATiNG

e20

L: 4780mm w: 2030mm h: 1136mm boot: na Fuel tank: 90 litres, ground clearance: na

LP610-4 LP580-2

kpl

L: 3995-4107mm w: 1745mm h: 1880mm boot: na Fuel tank: 50 litres, ground clearance: 180mm

stays true to its illustrious supercar heritage. brute force meets top-notch luxury. ENGiNE

kph 0-100

BoLero

LaMBorGHini

PRicE

Nm

L: 4850mm w: 1930mm h: 1780mm boot: na Fuel tank: 105 litres, ground clearance: 227mm

6cyl 2987cc 239 570 NA 8cyl 6400cc 468 624 NA

PRicE

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

100 240 NA 16.4 13.85 6/10

ever-improving suv offers great value, excellent practicality for india and nowdecent road manners. top car.

rangie’s smaller, sportier brother – more practical and clever, but not quite as charming. 3.0L SDV6 HSE 200 5.0L V8 Supercharged 231 SVR 269

Grand CHeroKee

135 147

bhp

188 420 NA 9.79 10.5

ranGe roVer sport

4cyl 2800cc 194 460 NA

3cyl 1493cc

L: 4430mm w: 1817mm h: 1975mm boot: na Fuel tank: 60 litres ground clearance: 180mm

L: 4999mm w: 2073mm h: 1835mm boot: na Fuel tank: 105 litres, ground clearance: na

where the rest of the suvs give up, the wrangler soldiers on. hardy, ancient, and pretty damn tough.

PRicE

PRicE

3.0 TDV6 290 4.4 SDV8 SVA LWB 482 5.0L V8 Supercharged 347

ENGiNE

11.4

sCorpio

S10 4x4 Auto

still the rolls-royce of the suvs. now, in a much lighter avatar, with a much heavier price tag.

TopGear on Jeep: Making some of the most iconic SUVs in the world. They’re old, but they still have a charm all their own

3.0L Summit D SRT

RATiNG

ranGe roVer

jeep

bhp

kpl

L: 4355mm w: 1985mm h: 1605-1635mm boot: na Fuel tank: na ground clearance: na

→ Jaguar XJ 3.0D `1.31 crore → mercedes s 350 CDI `1.38 crore

ENGiNE

kph 0-100

if looks could kill, the range rover evoque would be a serial killer.

DATA IN NumBERs: which luxe limo?

94

Nm

147 400 210 11.9 NA 7/10 188 420 NA 10.2 12.45 7/10

eVoque

HSE Dynamic

PRicE

bhp

PRicE

L: 3985mm w: 1850mm h: 1870mm boot: 412 litres, Fuel tank: 55 litres, ground clearance: 180mm

L: 4599mm w: 2173mm h: 1724mm boot: na Fuel tank: 65 litres ground clearance: 212mm

L: 5255mm w: 2105mm h: 1460mm boot: 520 litre Fuel tank: 82 litre, ground clearance: na

Unlimited 4x4

ENGiNE

70.48 4cyl 2179cc 79.71 4cyl 2179cc

a little more than a Quanto in new clothes, the nuvosport is Mahindra’s third sub-4m offering N8

the most glamorous Land rover till date is also a proper mountain goat. PRicE

PRicE

nuVosport

TopGear on Land Rover: Builder of the best 4x4 by far? An old advertising slogan that’s now coming true with the latest range of Landies.

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

8.82

3cyl 1198cc

77

190 NA

kph 0-100

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

7/10

L: 3675mm w: 1705mm h: 1635mm boot: 243 litres, Fuel tank: 35 litres, ground clearance: 170mm

H9

PRicE

ENGiNE

14.68

4cyl 2179cc

bhp

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

122 280 155 15.2

Nm

NA

5/10

L: 4500mm w: 1850mm h: 1880mm boot: na Fuel tank: 55 litres, ground clearance: 186mm

TopGear on Maruti Suzuki: A brand most Indians trust more than they do their spouses. And for good reason. Cars are good. Service and , brilliant.

1

aLto 800

Rolls-RoyCE PHANTom

Maruti’s idea of cheap transportation. gets the tried-and-tested engine and alto’s platform LXi

Price `6 crore, Specs 12cyl, 6749cc, 453bhp, 720Nm

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

4.46

3cyl 796cc

47

69

NA

16

5/10

18

L: 3395mm w: 1475mm h: 1475mm boot: 117 litre Fuel tank: 35 litres, ground clearance: 160mm

aLto K10 new engine and transmission mean you can say ‘alto’ and ‘performance’ in the same sentence. VXi AGS

You must have heard of like the Rolls-Royce of audio speakers, the Rolls-Royce of luxury watches. Well, then meet the Rolls-Royce of cars. It has been and continues to be the epitome of everything that’s luxurious and the best in the world. To put it simply, if it’s not the best, you won’t find it in a Phantom.

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

5.01

3cyl 998cc

67

90

NA

NA

7/10

NA

capable, sizeable hatchback that feels good on the inside. can hold its own against its rivals. PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

7.4 9.67

4cyl 1197cc 4cyl 1248cc

83 74

115 NA 13 14.5 7/10 190 NA 12.8 16.35 7/10

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

L: 3995mm w: 1745mm h: 1500mm boot: 339 litres Fuel tank: 37 litres ground clearance: 170mm

Apart from being luxurious and comfortable, the S-Class has always been the harbinger of innovative technology that eventually filters down to regular family cars in a couple of decades’ time. So if you’d like the best in comfort, safety and innovation, stop looking. Your search ends here.

ZXi AT ZDi (O) SHVS

11.69 12.91

4cyl 1373cc 4cyl 1248cc

bhp

Price `5.67 crore, Specs 8cyl, 6752cc, 505bhp, 1020Nm Nm

kph 0-100

91 130 NA 89 200 NA

12 NA

kpl

RATiNG

13.9 15.5

7/10 7/10

L: 4490mm w: 1730mm h: 1485mm boot: 510 litre, Fuel tank: 43 litres, ground clearance: 170mm

CeLerio

ZXI (O) ZDI (O)

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

6.1 7.18

3cyl 998cc 2cyl 793cc

67 48

90 125

NA NA

NA 20

6/10 5/10

NA 23

eeCo don’t let the marketing gimmick fool you. the eeco is a stripped-down versa at a rock-bottom price. PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

4.25

4cyl 1196cc

73

101

NA

NA

3/10

NA

L: 3675mm w: 1740mm h: 1800mm boot: 147.5 litres Fuel tank: 40 litres, ground clearance: 160mm

Price `1.55 crore, Specs 8cyl, 4395cc, 442bhp, 650Nm

PRicE

ENGiNE

10.42 11.44

4cyl 1373cc 4cyl 1248cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

94 130 NA NA NA 88 200 165 12.7 13.5

L: 4265mm w: 1695mm h: 1685mm boot: na Fuel tank: 45 litres ground clearance: 185mm

RATiNG

7/10 7/10

kpl

RATiNG

na 13.8 na 14.6

NA 16

6/10 6/10

the big hatchback that is – and believe us when we say this – a credible rival to the hyundai creta PRicE

DDiS 200 Alpha DDiS 320 Alpha

ENGiNE

13.24 4cyl 1248cc 16.95 4cyl 1598cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

87 200 NA 13.5 15.8 116 320 na 11.4 15

RATiNG

7/10 7/10

DATA IN NumBERs: crossover power → s-Cross DDis 320: 116bhp → Creta 1.6 D: 126bhp → Duster 1.5 dCi: 108bhp

sWiFt the most popular Maruti ever. Looks fab, drives well, has two great engines and lots of equipment. ZXi ZDi

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

7.6 9

4cyl 1197cc 4cyl 1248cc

83 74

115 160 190 160

kph 0-100

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

8/10 7/10

sWiFt dZire recently refreshed, looks better but reduces some of its boot space.

ZXi ZDi

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

8.2 9.6

4cyl 1197cc 4cyl 1248cc

86 74

114 160 NA 190 160 13.7

NA NA

6/10 6/10

L: 3995mm w: 1695mm h: 1555mm boot: 316 litre Fuel tank: 42 litres, ground clearance: 170mm

Vitara BreZZa

LDi ZDi+

PRicE

ENGiNE

8.76 11.9

4cyl 1248cc 4cyl 1248cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

88 200 NA 88 200 NA

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

8/10 8/10

L: 3995mm w: 1790mm h: 1640mm boot: 328 litres, Fuel tank: 48 litres ground clearance: 198mm

WaGon r More spacious than its predecessor and much nicer to look at. definitely for the family man... or woman VXi (O) AGS

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

6.26

3cyl 998cc

67

90

NA

NA

6/10

NA

L: 3595mm w: 1475mm h: 1670mm boot: na Fuel tank: 35 litres, ground clearance: 165mm

5 Price `1.81 crore, Specs 6cyl, 2993cc, 244bhp, 600Nm

Maruti jumps on the people-mover bandwagon with the ertiga. drives like a car, seats seven and it’s compact. ZXi + ZDi +

BmW 7 sERIEs

RANGE RoVER

ertiGa

kph 0-100

113 190

the sub-four metre suv india has been eagerly awaiting is finally here, and it manages to do everything quite well.

The 7 has been at the forefront of driver-focused luxury since its inception. What? Of course, massage seats, first-class luxury and superb levels of comfort are all part of standard equipment. You can have yours as a diesel, a V8 petrol or maybe even the V12, if you ask nicely.

L: 3600mm w: 1600mm h: 1560mm boot: 235 litre, Fuel tank: 35 litres, ground clearance: 165mm

7 STR

Bentley’s flagship saloon, the Mulsanne, is like an ancient castle with ultra-modern amenities and plumbing. It marries the best of tradition, comfort, luxury with a wallop of horsepower and torque. Perhaps the only machine in this lot that’s as good to drive as it is to be driven in.

4

another no-frills commuter from Maruti. but there’s a pleasant surprise this time – an automated manual gearbox.

Nm

85 74

L: 3850mm w: 1695mm h: 1530mm boot: 204 litre Fuel tank: 42 litres, ground clearance: 170mm

BENTlEy mulsANNE

ENGiNE

bhp

4cyl 1198cc 4cyl 1248cc

L: 4300mm w: 1765mm h: 1590mm boot: 353 litre Fuel tank: 48 litres ground clearance: 170mm

3

Maruti’s answer to the citys and the vernas of the world. available in petrol and diesel, manual and automatic guises.

ENGiNE

5.4 6.81

s-Cross

mERCEDEs s-ClAss

CiaZ

PRicE

L: 3715mm w: 1680mm h: 1620mm boot: 178 litre Fuel tank: 43 litres, ground clearance: 170mm

Price `1.37 crore, Specs 6cyl, 2987cc, 255bhp, 620Nm

BaLeno

PRicE

ZXi VDi

2

L: 3545mm w: 1515mm h: 1475mm boot: na Fuel tank: 35 litres, ground clearance: 160mm

Zeta P Alpha D

lUxUry CarS

ritZ if there’s ever a fill-it-shut-it-forget-it car, this is it.

For a name that’s rather short, this thing is unmatched when it comes to its long list of abilities. This is the car that is as at ease in the jungle as it is in the high society. It has simplified luxury travel and off-roading in a way Apple simplified the smartphone.

Maserati TopGear on Maserati: The Trident is back, with nearly its full range of cars. Best of all, they’re all drop-dead gorgeous

GHiBLi the compact Maser sedan. only available with a diesel, but can steal your heart with its looks Diesel

PRicE

ENGiNE

114*

6cyl 2987cc

bhp

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

271 600 NA 6.84

Nm

NA

7/10

L: 4971mm w: 1945mm h: 1461mm boot: 500 litre Fuel tank: 70 litres ground clearance: na TOPGEar.cOm

→

January 2017

113

MAruTi Suzuki-MASerATi

TopGear Top five

Maruti suZuKi

MASerATi - MerC-BeNz

TopGear Top five

Gran turisMo this is possibly one of the most spectacular-looking sportscars ever built. even after all these years... PRicE

Gran Turismo MC Stradale 240* Gran Cabrio MC Stradale 245*

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

8cyl 4691cc 453 520 NA 8cyl 4691cc 453 520 NA

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

-

1

Price `3.6*lakh, Specs 799cc, 53bhp, 71Nm

The Kwid has been quite a revolution. It has looked at the compact hatchback from a new perspective. It has shown Indians that we may not have to skimp on things just before we’re on a budget. With the way it drives and with the way it’s been styled, it’s here to give its established rivals a good run for their money.

DATA IN NumBERs: a price for more headroom → GRAN TuRIsmo mC sTRADAlE: 2.4 CrOre → GRAN CABRIo mC sTRADAlE: 2.45 CrOre

quattroporte

GTS Diesel

bhp

kph 0-100

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

7/10 7/10

L: 5262mm, w: 1948mm h: 1481mm boot: 530 litres, Fuel tank: 80 litre ground clearance: na

MerCedes-BenZ TopGear on Mercedes-Benz: The men from Stuttgart are on a roll. A truckload of products have arrived in the recent past, and many more are on their way

a-CLass Merc’s newest offering is dressed to kill. now the stepping stone to benz ownership. PRicE

ENGiNE

36.29 4cyl 1595cc 37.61 4cyl 2143cc

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

121 200 NA 9.85 12.8 134 300 NA 8.7 14.3

DATA IN NumBERs: KnocKing on The doors of Torque → merc A 180 sport: 5 doors 200Nm → merc AmG GT: 2 doors 650Nm

aMG Gt the pinnacle of the aMg range strikes a fine balance between performance and flamboyance. S

267

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

8cyl 3982cc 503 650 NA

3.9

kpl

RATiNG

14

8/10

B-CLass Merc’s b-class is ultimately a large luxury hatchback. now a more practical alternative to the a-class. PRicE

ENGiNE

39.38 4cyl 2143cc 38.05 4cyl 1595cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

134 300 210 9.36 14 120 200 200 10.5 10.3

RATiNG

6/10 6/10

L: 4359mm w: 1786mm h: 1557mm boot: 486 litres, Fuel tank: 50 litres, ground clearance: 18cm

C-CLass PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA 4cyl 1991cc 241 370 NA NA 53.74 4cyl 1991cc 181 300 NA NA 51.7 4cyl 2143cc 168 400 NA 8.22 174 8cyl 3982cc 503 700 NA NA

NA NA 15 NA

7/10 8/10 8/10 9/10

L: 4686mm w: 1810mm h: 1442mm boot: 480 litres, Fuel tank: na, ground clearance: na

11 4

mARuTI sWIFT

Price `7.54 lakh, Specs 1248cc, 74bhp, 190Nm

The ultimate king of hatchbacks. Packs in everything a buyer would want brilliantly. Be it engines, handling characteristics, ride quality and overall peace of mind for aftersales, the Swift has been through its test of time, with many rivals coming and failing to dethrone the mighty king.

January 2017 →

TOPGEar.cOm

RATiNG

7/10 7/10 8/10

Nm

kph 0-100

CLs superb alternative to a luxury sedan. goes well, turns heads too. PRicE

ENGiNE

101

4cyl 2143cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

201 500 250 NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

8/10

e-CLass Fresh new styling with a touch of character, great engine and new features make it an irresistible offer E 200 E 250 CDI E63 AMG E 350 CDI E400 Cabriolet

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

62.56 66.4 244 79.05 105

4 cyl1991cc 4cyl 2143cc 8cyl 5461cc 6cyl 2987cc 6cyl 2996cc

181 202 550 261 328

300 500 720 619 480

NA 9.2 9 7/10 NA 8.31 11.6 7/10 NA 5.07 6 8/10 NA 6.98 12.65 8/10 NA NA NA 8/10

kpl

RATiNG

GLC with good space, a stylish interior and decent on-road dynamics, the gLc is a great all-round package PRicE

300 220 d

Price `4.26 lakh, Specs 998cc, 67bhp, 90Nm

India’s best-selling car that sells more than 20,000 units a month. The Alto literally puts the nation on wheels. Low running and owning costs, a bigger zesty K10 engine and a fine balance between efficiency and fun is what the Alto K10 blends brilliantly.

The earlier Ford Figo was good, but lost in some areas. The new Figo is a car that forces every buyer in that segment to sit up and take notice. It is far more than what the segment offers, its tried-and-tested engines and the overall wellroundedness is something that works brilliantly.

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

245 370 NA 170 400 NA

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

7/10 7/10

L: 4656mm w: 1890mm h: 1639mm boot: 550 litres Fuel tank: na, ground clearance: na

GLs all the creature comforts you need, and a boot that can easily swallow your camping equipment. 350 d GL 63 AMG 400

102 231 109

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

6cyl 2987cc 255 620 222 8.2 9.25 7/10 8cyl 5461cc 550 760 250 NA NA 6/10 6cyl 2996cc 328 480 NA NA NA -

L: 5099mm w: 1920mm h: 1850mm boot: 520 litres Fuel tank: 100 litre, ground clearance: na

GLa-CLass a bigger a-class. offers a good ride, enough features and also, it’s fun to drive PRicE

200 Sport 200 CDI Sport GLA 45 AMG

5

ENGiNE

68.98 4cyl 1991cc 68.71 4cyl 2143cc

PRicE

mARuTI AlTo k10

Price `7.75 lakh, Specs 1498cc, 99bhp, 215Nm Nm

bhp

L: 4868mm w: 1850mm h: 1474mm boot: 540 litres Fuel tank: 80 litres, ground clearance: na

FoRD FIGo

excellent new c-class returns to traditional Merc values and quality. as soothing as a champagne jacuzzi. C 300 Cabriolet C 200 Avantgarde C 220 CDI Avantgarde AMG C63 S Sedan

The Grand i10 looks cute and is packed to its brim with features, but the biggest highlight of this tiny hatchback is its handling capabilities. Based on a new platform, it can put a smile on the driver’s face through a mountain road. And despite being a good drive, it’s extremely frugal, keeping costs in check.

4

L: 4546mm w: 1939mm h: 1288mm boot: 285-350 litres Fuel tank: 75 litres ground clearance: na

B 200 CDI Sport B 180 Sport

Price `8.06 lakh, Specs 1120cc, 71bhp, 180Nm

8/10 7/10

L: 4292mm w: 2010mm h: 1433mm boot: 488 litres Fuel tank: 50 litres, ground clearance: na

PRicE

HyuNDAI GRAND I10

RATiNG

ENGiNE

L: 4940mm w: 1880mm h: 1416mm boot: 520 litres Fuel tank: 80litres ground clearance: 120mm

3 bhp

kpl

41.84 4cyl 1991cc 181 300 NA 7.83 12.9 43.81 4cyl 2143cc 134 300 NA 9.8 17.9 93.76 4cyl 1991cc 355 450 NA NA NA

L: 4630mm w: 1770mm h: 1416mm boot: 470 litres Fuel tank: 56 litres ground clearance: na

2 Nm

222* 8cyl 3799cc 523 710 NA 152* 6cyl 2987cc 271 600 NA

A 180 Sport A 200d Sport

200 Sport 200 CDI Sport CLA45 AMG

CLS 250 CDI

Mafia boss? say hello to your big, shiny new ride. ENGiNE

Looks smashing. aMg-fettled version powered by the most powerful four-pot in production. also, looks smashing. PRicE

RENAulT kWID

L: 4881mm w: 1915mm h: 1353mm boot: 260 litre Fuel tank: 86 litres ground clearance: na

PRicE

Small CarS

CLa-CLass

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

43.07 4cyl 1991cc 181 300 NA 45.09 4cyl 2143cc 134 300 NA 97 4cyl 1991cc 355 450 NA

NA NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA NA

7/10 7/10 8/10

L: 4417mm w: 1804mm h: 1494mm boot: 421 litres, Fuel tank: na ground clearance: 183mm

GLe-CLass the M-class with a new name is vastly better, offers great quality, and is good on-road. PRicE

350 CDI 250 CDI

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

91.55 6cyl 2987cc 254 620 225 7.62 78.07 4cyl 2143cc 204 500 NA NA

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

NA NA

7/10 7/10

L: 4804mm w: 1926mm h: 1796mm boot: 690 litres Fuel tank: 70 litres ground clearance: na

pajero sport

CayMan

not just the best car in the world. it redefines what a car will be expected to do in the future.

this is for those forever looking for shortcuts through the bushes. Fantastic off-road, adequate on it.

baby 911 is a great sports car. supernatural handling.

PRicE

S 350 CDI S 400 L S 500 Coupe S 63 AMG Coupe S 63 AMG Sedan S 600 Maybach S 500 Cabriolet

ENGiNE

138 6cyl 2987cc 154 6cyl 2996cc NA 8cyl 4663cc 306 8cyl 5461cc NA 8cyl 5461cc 324 12cyl 5980cc NA 8cyl 4663cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

255 328 453 576 576 523 449

620 480 700 900 900 830 700

250 250 250 250 250 250 250

9.8 NA 5.6 NA NA NA NA

8/10 8/10 9/10 8/10 9/10 9/10

7.51 NA 5.78 NA 4.2 NA NA

L: 5246mm w: 1899mm h: 1494mm boot: 530 litres Fuel tank: 80 litres ground clearance: na

102

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

6cyl 2996cc 362 520 NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

6/10

PRicE

267

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA

9/10

L: 4763mm w: 1855mm h: 1938mm boot: 480 litres Fuel tank: 96 litres ground clearance: na

TopGear on Mini: Mini has managed what other carmakers struggle to do – make a small, fun car, and charge a

Mini the basics are wrong: transverse engine, Fwd, but tell that to yourself when you are smiling end to end ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

31.85* 35.20* NA 34.9*

3cyl 1496cc 3cyl 1496cc 4cyl 1998cc 4cyl 1998cc

114 114 189 189

270 270 280 300

NA 9.43 14.6 NA 9.41 16.9 NA 6.87 10.75 NA 7.1 NA

L: 3982mm w: 1938mm h: 1425mm boot: 278 litres Fuel tank: 44 litres, ground clearance: na

Turbo Macan

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

3cyl 1198cc 4cyl 1461cc

74 63

104 NA 160 NA

NA 11.5

kpl

RATiNG

13.3 NA

5/10 5/10

L: 3725mm w: 1665mm h: 1530mm boot: 251 litres Fuel tank: 41 litres, ground clearance: 150mm

→ Cooper D 5-door: `3.3 lakh more than the 3-door

PRicE

XL CVT XV Diesel Safety

PRicE

ENGiNE

12.17 13.5

4cyl 1498cc 4cyl 1461cc

ENGiNE

35.68 4cyl 1598cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

100 134 NA 85 200 NA

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

6/10 6/10

PRicE

ENGiNE

4cyl 1461cc 4cyl 1598cc

bhp

Nm

112 270

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA

NA

7/10

NA

L: 4100mm w: 1780mm h: 1561mm boot: 350 litres Fuel tank: 47 litres, ground clearance: na

MitsuBisHi

NA

ENGiNE

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

108 248 216 11.96 13.5 104 145 NA NA NA

RATiNG

8/10 7/10

LX Multijet

kpl

RATiNG

NA

-

NA

L:4900mm w: 1875mm h: 1900mm boot: na Fuel tank: 88 litres, ground clearance: 235mm

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

8/10

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

7.93

4cyl 1248cc

72

183 NA 15.03

14

3/10

L: 3970mm, w: 1570mm, h: 1730mm boot: 454 litres Fuel tank: 46 litres, ground clearance: 200mm

TopGear on Porsche: A big name in sports car manufacture and motorsport and deservedly so. It produces cars of immense capability and quality.

TopGear on Renault: Renault’s journey in India is going rather nicely, thanks in no small measure to the Duster.

911

duster

ENGiNE

bhp

Finally a cheap suv that won’t go bellyup around a corner. Nm

kph 0-100

140* 6cyl 2981cc 364 450 NA 277* 6cyl 3800cc 572 700 NA

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

-

RXZ 110 AMT

PRicE

ENGiNE

16.5

4cyl 1461cc

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

13.1 13.95 8/10

FLuenCe

BoXster

Pretty safe bet of a car. comfortable, refined and built to last.

step 1 into Porsche-land is still a divine experience.

113*

PRicE

Cayenne Turbo

bhp

108 245 NA

L: 4315mm w: 1822mm h: 1695mm boot: 475 litres Fuel tank: 50 litres ground clearance: 205mm

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

6cyl 3436cc 335 380 NA 5.09 6.5

RATiNG

9/10

PRicE

E4 Diesel

ENGiNE

20.89 4cyl 1461cc

174*

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

8cyl 4806cc 512 750 NA 6.17

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

5

8/10

L:4798mm, w: 1939mm, h: 1705mm boot: na Fuel tank: 100 litres, ground clearance: na

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

108 240 170

11.7

kpl

RATiNG

21

7/10

kpl

RATiNG

NA

7/10

L: 4618mm w: 1813mm h: 1488mm boot: 530 litres Fuel tank: na, ground clearance: 170mm

L:4329mm w: 1800mm, h: 1282mm boot: 150 litres Fuel tank: 64 litres, ground clearance: na

NA

kph 0-100

renauLt

porsCHe

Boxster GTS

kph 0-100

Nm

PRicE

French take on the softroader, and a pretty good one at that.

Nm

bhp

if you are adamant on being different, this is your ride.

KoLeos

bhp

RATiNG

TopGear on Premier: Gone are the glory days, market share that the company enjoyed. Now a company selling niche products.

big bad mutha. Perfect if you want a Porsche, but are scared of our roads.

ENGiNE

kpl

preMier

Cayenne PRicE

kph 0-100

8cyl 4806cc 562 750 NA

the ‘king of terrains’ has returned with a more chrome-heavy face. it’s significantly more expensive, too. 67.88* 4cyl 3200cc 186 441

Nm

a 911 for the family man, with two extra doors and a rear seat.

Montero

GLS 4x4 AT

bhp

panaMera

L:4331mm w: 1822mm h: 1671mm boot: 475 litres Fuel tank: 50 litres, ground clearance: 205mm

PRicE

TopGear on Mitsubishi: Japanese industrial giant that now sells a single SUV in our market - the Pajero Sport.

ENGiNE

L:4680mm, w: 1920mm, h: 1624mm, boot: 500 litres, Fuel tank: 60 litres, ground clearance: na

L:4507mm, w: 1880mm, h: 1294mm, boot: 115-145 litres, Fuel tank: 64 litres, ground clearance: na bhp

kph 0-100

rio

the duster gets new clothes and lots of chrome. Looks a tad more than its French cousin 16.78 12.15

Nm

L:4970mm, w: 1930mm, h: 1418mm, boot: 820 litres Fuel tank: 60 litres, ground clearance: na

terrano

Carrera Turbo S Cabriolet

when four-door practicality meets the Mini badge, what you have is the countryman

10/10

PRicE

PRicE

CountryMan

bhp

108* 6cyl 3604cc 394 550 NA 4.76 6.65 9/10 NA 4cyl 1984cc 248 370 NA 6.7 5.3 9/10

Panamera Turbo S

iconic. instantly recognisable, fantastic to drive, near-perfect.

DATA IN NumBERs: for space

RATiNG

PRicE

XV Active 6.4 Diesel XV - 10.02

RATiNG

7/10 7/10 8/10 7/10

ENGiNE

want a sportscar that’s actually an suv? this is as close as it gets.

1.5D XL 110PS 1.6P XL

PRicE

kpl

6cyl 3436cc 335 380 NA 5.05 6.5

MaCan

L:4455mm w: 1695mm h: 1515mm boot: 490 litres Fuel tank: 41 litres, ground clearance: na

Mini

115*

TopGear on Nissan: A big Japanese car maker with a factory in England. Its portfolio becomes more respectable as each new model appears.

Lots of enger space, safety features like driver airbag and abs, even on the base variant

8cyl 5461cc 563 760 210 5.4

PRicE

Cayman GTS

L:4440mm, w: 1800mm, h: 1294mm boot: 150 litres, Fuel tank: 64 litres, ground clearance: na

sunny

the g-wagon is still going strong. the aMg v8 gives it hot-rod performance.

Cooper D

kph 0-100

nissan

PRicE

G-WaGon

Cooper D 3-door Cooper D 5-door Cooper S S Convertible

Nm

178 400 NA

L:4695mm w: 1815mm h: 1840mm boot: na Fuel tank: 70 litres, ground clearance: 215mm

L: 4142mm w: 1817mm h: 1304mm boot: na Fuel tank: 60 litres, ground clearance: na

G63 AMG

bhp

nissan’s budget small car armed with features you won’t see even in cars twice its price. Peppy and fun to drive too.

known as the sLk before, this little roadster isn’t all-new, but makes do with a facelift and a new powerplant. PRicE

ENGiNE

32.55 4cyl 2477cc

MiCra

sLC

43 AMG

PRicE

4x4 MT

PRicE

4x4 AT

ENGiNE

35.57 4cyl 1995cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

171 320 NA

NA

L: 4520mm w: 1855mm h: 1695mm boot: na Fuel tank: 65 litres, ground clearance: 206mm TOPGEar.cOm

→

January 2017

115

MerC-BeNz-reNAuLT

s-CLass

reNAuLT-TATA

KWid bigger than the alto, features more equipment than the alto, offers more power than the alto. what’s not to like? 1.0 RXT (O) 0.8 RXT (O) 1.0 RXT(O) AMT

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

5.10 4.88 5.59

3cyl 999cc 3cyl 799cc 3cyl 999cc

67 53 67

91 72 91

NA NA NA 7/10 NA 15.7 17.05 7/10 NA NA NA 7/10

kpl

RATiNG

L: 3679mm w: 1579mm h: 1478mm boot: 300 litres Fuel tank: 28 litres ground clearance: 180mm

sKoda

tata

TopGear on Škoda: New products like the Octavia and Yeti make it rather exciting. But service and still have issues.

TopGear on Tata: Still struggling with quality and dynamics, but it has the best cars if you want the maximum for the minimum.

aria

oCtaVia skoda gets its chart-busting octavia back, but will it change skoda’s fortunes once again in india? PRicE

→ Renault kwid: 242.2cm wheelbase → Renault scala: 260cm wheelbase → Renault lodgy: 281cm wheelbase

ENGiNE

4cyl 1461cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

109 245 NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

7/10

PRicE

1.8 TSI L&K AT 2.0 TDI L&K AT

the French version of the sunny.

RxZ CVT

12.60 4cyl 1498cc

bhp

Nm

100 134

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA

NA

6/10

NA

ENGiNE

35.62 4cyl 1798cc 39 4cyl 1968cc

bhp

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

6.78

3cyl 1198cc

75

104 NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

5/10

ENGiNE

bhp

TopGear on Rolls-Royce: A century after Mr Royce built his first car, the world’s most luxurious carmaker is still going strong.

yeti

daWn

it’s cleaner, greener, smaller and smarter than any suv out there.

another roofless rolls s the fray. because the world needs more roofless rrs – and so do we bhp

Elegance 4x4 Nm

kph 0-100

625* 12cyl 6592cc 563 820 250 NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

-

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

600* 12cyl 6749cc 453 720 250 5.9 NA 12cyl 6749cc 453 720 250 5.6 NA 12cyl 6749cc 453 720 250 5.8

6.3 6.4 6.4

9/10 8/10 8/10

bhp

Nm

L: 5834mm w: 1990mm h: 1638mm boot: 460 litres Fuel tank: 100 litres, ground clearance: na

4cyl 1968cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

455* 12cyl 6592cc 562 780 250 4.9

NA

9/10

January 2017 →

TOPGEar.cOm

bhp

Nm

kpl

RATiNG

11.4

7/10

BoLt PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

7.83 9.24

4cyl 1193cc 4cyl 1248cc

88 74

140 NA 14.7 13.4 190 NA 15.3 15.5

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

7/10 7/10

L: 3825mm w: 1695mm h: 1562mm boot: 210 litres Fuel tank: 44 litres, ground clearance: 165mm

MoVus

LX

PRicE

ENGiNE

10.07

4cyl 2179cc

bhp

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

119 250 140 18.4

Nm

NA

4/10

L: 4420mm w: 1790mm h: 1940mm boot: 150 litres Fuel tank: 65 litres, ground clearance: 180mm Nm

kph 0-100

NA 12.1

kpl

RATiNG

NA 14.5

7/10 7/10

indiGo eCs smallest sedan on the market is more like a hatch with a boot.

eGLX P eGLS P VX D

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

6.04 5.72 7.67

4cyl 1193cc 4cyl 1193cc 4cyl 1399cc

64 64 69

100 NA NA NA 100 NA 16.5 16.3 140 NA NA NA

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

4/10 4/10 4/10

L: 3990mm w: 1930mm h: 1540mm boot: 300 litres Fuel tank: 45 litres, ground clearance: 165mm

indiCa eV2 the indica has more than delivered on the ‘more car per car’ promise. if only it were more refined.

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

138 320 NA 10.2 14.6

8/10

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

6.5

4cyl 1396cc

70

140 140 16.44

15

4/10

L: 3690mm w: 1665mm h: 1485mm boot: 220 litres, Fuel tank: 37 litres, ground clearance: 165mm

nano gets a much-needed shot in the arm with the introduction of an aMt. a much nicer package now

reXton ENGiNE

XTA

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

3.97

2cyl 624cc

37

51

105 30.4

NA

6/10

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

7/10 7/10

L: 3164mm w: 1500mm h: 1652mm boot: 94-110 litre Fuel tank: 15 litres ground clearance: 180mm

DATA IN NumBERs: cheapesT amT

Packed with equipment at a mouthwatering price. a big soft-roader that won’t eat into your wallet.

→ Nano XmA: `3.53 lakh bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

30.48 5cyl 2696cc 184 402 NA 10.25 7.75 L: 4755mm w: 1900mm h: 1785mm boot: na Fuel tank: 78 litres ground clearance: 252mm

L: 5834mm w: 1990mm h: 1550mm boot: 460 litres Fuel tank: 100 litres, ground clearance: na

11 6

29

bhp

kph 0-100

138 320 NA 16.9

utilitarian sumo knocks hard on upmarket suv doors. really hard.

L: 4220mm w: 1793mm h: 1691mm boot: 416 litres Fuel tank: 55 litres, ground clearance: 180mm

RX7

the baby rolls isn’t much of a baby, really. Larger than most sedans and more luxurious than a private jet. Ghost EWB

ENGiNE

PRicE

GHost ENGiNE

-

TopGear on SsangYong: Bought by Mahindra a few years back, now sells the Rexton in India. The entire SUV range will follow.

take first-class travel, multiply by 10, square that, and you’re getting close.

PRicE

RATiNG

10 NA

ssanGyonG

pHantoM ENGiNE

PRicE

ENGiNE

4cyl 2179cc

L: 4780mm w: 1895mm h: 1780mm boot: na Fuel tank: 60 litres, ground clearance: 185mm

LX D

L: 5285mm w: 1947mm h: 1502mm boot: na Fuel tank: na, ground clearance: na

PRicE

kpl

→ skoda Rapid: L 438.6cm, H 146.6cm → skoda superb: L 486.1cm, H 148.3 cm → skoda yeti: L 422cm, H 169.1cm

roLLs-royCe

Phantom Phantom Coupe Drophead Coupe

NA NA

DATA IN NumBERs: The long and shorT of iT

L: 3805mm w: 1665mm h: 1525mm boot: 251 litres Fuel tank: 41 litres, ground clearance: na

Dawn

kph 0-100

L: 4413mm w: 1699mm h: 1466mm boot: 460 litre Fuel tank: 55 litres, ground clearance: 163mm

the masculine version of the nissan Micra.

ENGiNE

Nm

177 250 NA 174 350 NA

PRicE

19.88

the two-box version of the Zest. Quite capable, but priced precariously close to established rivals

does most things right, very few wrong. with all the nice touches of the vento, you can’t go wrong. PRicE

Pride 4X4

XT Petrol XT Diesel

Elegance 1.6 MPI DSG 13.87 4cyl 1598cc 103 153 NA Elegance 1.6TDI DSG 15.64 4cyl 1498cc 108 250 NA

puLse

PRicE

RATiNG

rapid

L: 4425mm w: 1695mm h: 1505mm boot: 490 litres Fuel tank: 41 litres, ground clearance: 161mm

RXZ Petrol

kpl

L: 4861mm w: 1864mm h: 1483mm boot: 625 litres Fuel tank: 66 litres, ground clearance: 149-164mm

sCaLa ENGiNE

kph 0-100

the real big car for reasonable money at the high end of the market.

L: 4498mm w: 1751mm h: 1697mm boot: 207-1,861 litres Fuel tank: 50 litres ground clearance: 174mm

PRicE

Nm

superB

ticks all the right boxes. highly practical MPv capable of rewriting the rules of the game. PRicE

bhp

L: 4659mm w: 1814mm h: 1476mm boot: 590 litres Fuel tank: 50 litres, ground clearance: 158mm

LodGy

14.68

ENGiNE

Ambition 1.4 TSI 21.73 4cyl 1395cc 138 250 210 9.62 13.5 8/10 Elegance 1.8 TSI AT 26 4cyl 1798 cc 177 250 210 8.1 11.85 8/10 Elegance 2.0 TDI CR AT 28.42 4cyl 1968cc 140 320 210 8.6 13.5 8/10

DATA IN NumBERs: The gap beTween The nuTs

RXZ 110PS 7-str

big bully of an MPv. nice engine and lots of gizmos to keep you interested.

DATA IN NumBERs: The power game → ssangyong Rexton RX7: 5cyl 2696cc, 184bhp → Ford Endeavour: 5cyl 3198cc, 198bhp

RATiNG

6/10

tiaGo new alternative to the grand i10 is well finished, looks chic and is priced competitively. should do the trick, this. XZ Petrol XZ Diesel

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

6 7.14

3cyl 1199cc 3cyl 1047cc

84 69

114 NA 140 NA

kph 0-100

NA NA

L: 3746mm w: 1647mm h: 1535mm boot: 242 litres Fuel tank: 35 litres, ground clearance: 170mm

big, heavy, ponderous and somehow likeable. colossal comfort, great off-road ability. PRicE

VX 4x4 V400 VX 4x4

ENGiNE

18.59* 4cyl 2179cc 17.45 4cyl 2179cc

bhp

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

154 400 NA NA 138 320 NA 15.13

Nm

NA 10

610 6/10

L: 4650mm w: 1930mm h: 1922mm boot: 980 litres Fuel tank: 55 litres, ground clearance: 205mm

Zest a compact sedan available with a turbopetrol motor, and an automated manual ’box, but only with a diesel engine for now XT 1.2 P XT 1.3 D

PRicE

ENGiNE

7.95 10.8

4cyl 1193cc 4cyl 1248cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

89 140 NA 89 200 NA

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

7/10 7/10

innoVa Crysta it used to be an expensive people-mover. now, it has transformed into an expensive but luxurious people-mover PRicE

enTry

G Diesel 7-str ZX AT Diesel 7-str ZX AT Petrol

Prado

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA

NA

8/10

NA

L: 4850mm w: 1825mm h: 1480mm boot: 484 litres Fuel tank: 70 litres, ground clearance: 160mm

CoroLLa aLtis the new one is not all-new but still very good. altis is a refined, comfortable businessman’s sedan. PRicE

VL DG

ENGiNE

23 4cyl 1798cc 20.63 4cyl 1364cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

138 173 NA 10.2 12.2 87 205 NA NA NA

RATiNG

7/10 7/10

L: 4620mm w: 1766mm h: 1475mm boot: 475 litres Fuel tank: 55 litres, ground clearance: 175mm

etios Made not to excite but just smack you with the practicality and comfort of a toyota. VX VXD

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

9.68 11.22

4cyl 1496cc 4cyl 1364cc

89 67

132 180 11.2 12.9 170 170 15.5 16.9

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

PRicE

ENGiNE

121

4cyl 2982cc

bhp

Nm

170 410

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA

NA

7/10

NA

PRicE

ENGiNE

175

8cyl 4461cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

261 650 NA

11.4

kpl

RATiNG

NA

7/10

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

RATiNG

76

4cyl 1969cc

190

400

8/10

VoLKsWaGen TopGear on Volkswagen: The international giant has been getting good response in India , thanks to German engineering with an affordable pricetag.

aMeo aggressively priced cs is a solid drive and packed with features, but short on power and cabin space PRicE

1.2 MPI Comfortline 7.76 1.5 TDI AT Highline 11.9

ENGiNE

3cyl 1198cc 4cyl 1498cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

74 110 NA 109 250 NA

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

7/10 7/10

kpl

RATiNG

L: 3995mm w: 1682mm h: 1483mm boot: 330 litres Fuel tank: 45 litres ground clearance: 165mm

BeetLe it’s back! the cute little veedub has returned, but it now looks a lot more grown-up. PRicE

1.4 TSI

ENGiNE

bhp

28.73* 4cyl 1395cc

Nm

kph 0-100

147 250 NA

9.4 11.25

7/10

L: 4278mm w: 1808mm h: 1486mm boot:na Fuel tank: 55 litres ground clearance: 136mm

DATA IN NumBERs: 55 is The number → Beetle, Jetta, Vento: 55-litre fuel tank

jetta

etios LiVa

More than just a bigger vento, even if some equipment is missing.

a practical, no-nonsense family car that we need, but not necessarily want. PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

7.91 10.12

4cyl 1197cc 4cyl 1364cc

79 67

104 NA 14.33 14.4 170 NA NA NA

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

5/10 5/10

L: 3775mm w: 1695mm h: 1510cm boot: 251 litres Fuel tank: 45 litres, ground clearance: 170mm

PRicE

Highline AT

ENGiNE

25.45 4cyl 1968cc

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

139 320 187 10.1

bhp

Nm

10

8/10

L: 4659mm w: 1778mm h: 1453mm boot:na Fuel tank: 55 litres, ground clearance: 139mm

poLo smart, sophisticated, german. sticks to all the norms and is affordable too.

Fortuner brutal power and great value. interiors are practical but not very well finished. Powerful engine though. PRicE

4x4 Manual 4x2 Auto 4x2 Manual

7/10 7/10 -

L: 4950mm w: 1980mm h: 1910mm boot: na Fuel tank: 83 litres, ground clearance: 220mm

4/10 4/10

L: 4265mm w: 1695mm h: 1510mm boot: 595 litres Fuel tank: 45 litres, ground clearance: 170mm

VX Cross VD

V8

volvo’s answer to the Merc e-class, bMw 5 series, Jaguar XF and the audi a6. its longer, wider and plusher than the s80, the cabin is made of grade a materials and the craftsmanship is great. the ride quailty is commendable, with even sharp-edged big-potholes being met with a thud at most. it’s 2.0-litre 4cyl turbo diesel packs decent performance, with virtually no lag in engine response. it is the kind of car that’s best consumed at a stately pace, unleashing the pace when required. this swedish motor will give a tough run to the germans in this segment. Inscription

PRicE

RATiNG

NA NA NA

bigger, thirstier version of the Prado, with a v8. the best off-roader that money can buy.

VolVo S90

41.29 4cyl 2494cc 202 213

kpl

Land Cruiser

the handsome new camry is fast and spacious, and has a great cabin.

Hybrid

NA NA NA

L: 4780mm w: 1885mm h: 1880mm boot: 620 litres Fuel tank: 87 litres, ground clearance: 220mm

CaMry Nm

kph 0-100

big, thirsty and not ballerina-like on-road, but a great suv despite that.

TopGear on Toyota: Massive world-player but also churns out the reliably unexceptional in frightening numbers.

bhp

Nm

Land Cruiser prado

toyota

ENGiNE

bhp

L: 4735mm w: 1830mm h: 1795mm boot: na Fuel tank: 55 litres, ground clearance: na

L: 3995mm w: 1706mm h: 1570mm boot: 390 litres Fuel tank: 44litres ground clearance: 175mm

PRicE

ENGiNE

17.61 4cyl 2393cc 148 343 NA 26.31 4cyl 2755cc 172 360 NA 24.28 4cyl 2694cc 164 245 NA

ENGiNE

bhp

PRicE Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

37.98 4cyl 2982cc 168 343 170 11.2 12 36.86 4cyl 2982cc 168 360 NA 11.05 8.6 34.87 4cyl 2982cc 168 343 NA NA NA

L: 4705mm w: 1840mm h: 1850mm boot: na Fuel tank: 80 litres, ground clearance: 220mm

RATiNG

6/10 6/10 6/10

1.2 Highline P 1.5 Highline D 1.2 GT TSI 1.5 GT TDI 1.8 GTI

ENGiNE

8.23 3cyl 1198cc 10.14 4cyl 1498cc 10.64 4cyl 1197cc 10.94 4cyl 1498cc 25.6 4cyl 1798cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

74 88 103 103 188

110 230 175 250 250

175 160 172 180 236

kpl

RATiNG

14.47 14.3 13.6 14 10.85 12.7 10.27 13 6.7 NA

7/10 7/10 9/10 8/10 8/10

L: 3971mm w: 1682mm h: 1469mm boot: 280 litres Fuel tank: 45 litres, ground clearance: 168mm TOPGEar.cOm

→

January 2017

117

TATA-VOLkSWAGeN

new

saFari storMe

VOLkSWAGeN - BAJAJ

Vento

s90

XC90

Fantastic value for a vw sedan; tarmacsmothering ride and still a great looker.

a stylish design with a cabin that makes you feel special. it’s not sporty, but it’s no slouch either.

all-new avatar moves the game forward. is now a real threat to its german compatriots

1.6 Highline P 1.5 Highline D AT

PRicE

ENGiNE

11.85 15.15

4cyl 1598cc 4cyl 1498cc

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

103 153 185 NA 108 250 NA 11.5

bhp

Nm

NA 15

7/10 8/10

Inscription

VoLVo

D4 Momentum D5 Inscription T6 Cross Country

53 55.93 57.7 57.75

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

9

kpl

RATiNG

7.75

8/10

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

5cyl 1984cc 163 400 220 9 11.2 5cyl 2400cc 211 440 230 8.1* 14.1* 4cyl 1969cc 302 400 NA NA NA 4cyl 2400cc 188 420 NA NA NA

RATiNG

7/10 7/10 7/10 7/10

PRicE

Inscription T8 Excellence

bhp

PRicE

ENGiNE

75.22 5cyl 2400cc

bhp

PRicE Nm

kph 0-100

211 440 200 7.8

kpl

RATiNG

11.1

7/10

T4 Cross Country R-Design

ENGiNE

46.75 4cyl 1596cc 40.31 5cyl 1984cc

bhp

bajaj’s salvo in the exec segment. Quite a looker if you opt for alloys and disc-brake variant.

Caponord 1200

150

1200 ABS

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

21.15

2cyl 1197cc

121

115

NA

NA

-

NA

seat height: 840mm, wheelbase: na, ground clearance: na, weight: na, Fuel tank: 24ltrs

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA

2cyl 1197cc

127

115

NA

NA

-

NA

seat height: 870mm, wheelbase: 1528mm, ground clearance: na, weight: na, Fuel tank: 15ltrs

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

16.66

2cyl 839cc

74

73

NA

NA

-

NA

seat height: 800mm, wheelbase: 1528mm, ground clearance: na, weight: na, Fuel tank: 15ltrs

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

2cyl 839cc

76

76

NA

NA

-

NA

the naked version of the rsv4. draws attention wherever it goes, and the Factory trim is a serious piece of kit

bhp

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

170

121

NA

NA

8/10

NA

TopGear on Bajaj: The Pulsar saw them shoot to fame and they’ve kept the momentum going with frequent updates.

PRicE

Nm

195 115

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA

NA

8/10

NA

seat height: na, wheelbase: na, ground clearance: na, weight: 180kg, Fuel tank: 18.5ltrs

January 2017 →

TOPGEar.cOm

150 Street 220 Street 220 Cruise

kpl

RATiNG

NA 13.5

7/10 8/10

0.91 1.03 1.03

ENGiNE

bhp

PRicE

ENGiNE

0.62 0.63 NA

1cyl 102cc 1cyl 124cc 1cyl 145cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

9.2 9.2 NA 13 10.8 NA 14.3 12.75 NA

NA NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

70 NA NA

5/10 7/10 7/10

a bike for the patriot in you: quirkylooking commuter does just fine, but you may have to get used to the looks. PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

0.77

1cyl 149cc

12

13

NA

NA

7/10

NA

seat height: 780mm, wheelbase: 1315mm, ground clearance: 165mm, weight: 135.5kg, Fuel tank: 13ltrs

aVenGer

with a few modifications, this is the same bike aprilia takes to the world superbike championship. the want is strong

100 M 125 150 S

V15

ENGiNE

NA 9.2

V

17.67

24.50 4cyl 1077cc

kph 0-100

seat height: 795mm, wheelbase: 1305mm, ground clearance: 165mm, weight: 130kg, Fuel tank: 8ltrs

swanky, affordable cruiser is now available in two guises, and with two engine options.

rsV4

11 8

8/10

Bajaj

PRicE

4cyl 999cc

RATiNG

NA

NA

seat height: na, wheelbase: na, ground clearance: na, weight: 184kg, Fuel tank: 18.5ltrs

built for long-distance rides, the jewel in the Mana’s crown is its lack of a clutch lever – it has a cvt!

28.81

kpl

NA

PRicE

PRicE

Mana 850 Gt

RF

kph 0-100

a scooter unlike any other you’ve seen: the srv has an engine bigger than a kwid’s. this is serious business.

Factory

ENGiNE

Nm

tuono V4 1100

PRicE

PRicE

bhp

10.4 11.4

seat height: 780mm, wheelbase: 1593mm, ground clearance: na, weight: 250kg, Fuel tank: 18.5ltrs

a road-going enduro bike, the dorsoduro is designed to go long distances off-road. count us in

850 GT ABS

1cyl 155cc

srV 850

850 ABS ATC

dorsoduro

1200

ENGiNE

0.80

seat height: na, wheelbase: na, ground clearance: na, weight: na, Fuel tank: 6.5ltrs

Nm

8/10 -

everything you need to know about buying new bikes

disCoVer

bhp

RATiNG

NA NA

L: 4370mm w: 1802mm h: 1458mm boot: 335 litres Fuel tank: 60 litres, ground clearance: na

Quite possibly the most fun scooter on sale in india right now. it’s also priced unbelievably aggressively. PRicE

Nm

177 240 NA 150 350 NA

sr 150

ENGiNE

kpl

8.1 NA

a swedish hatch that looks rather good and is backed by strong driving dynamics.

TopGear on Aprilia: Owned by Piaggio, this famed Italian marque churns out some truly stunning-looking two-wheelers.

PRicE

kph 0-100

V40

Bike Buyers

this is aprilia’s take on sport-tourers. not the newest of the lot, but it should be a load of fun on a twisty road

Nm

→ XC90 T8 Excellence `1.25cr* → Bentley Bentayga `3.85cr* → Range Rover sVA `3.47cr

L: 4644mm w: 1630mm h: 1713mm boot: 495 litres Fuel tank: 70 litres, ground clearance: 210mm

apriLia

ENGiNE

4cyl 1969cc 222 470 NA 4cyl 1969cc 401 640 NA

DATA IN NumBERs: luxe suv sTeal?

if you crash this car, you’re either unfit to drive or you’re running an insurance scam. D5 Inscription

110 125*

L: 4950mm, w: 2008mm h: 1776mm boot: 520 litres, Fuel tank: 88 litre ground clearance: 210mm

XC60

L: 4635mm w: 2097mm h: 1484mm boot: 380 litres Fuel tank: 67.5 litres, ground clearance: 136mm

TOPGEAR

bhp

190 400 230

→ Volvo s90 Inscription D4 190bhp → Audi A6 35 TDI 188bhp → Jaguar XF D Portfolio 177bhp

s60 ENGiNE

4cyl 1969cc

DATA IN NumBERs: power rivals

TopGear on Volvo: The company has been very subtle with its presence, just like its cars, but things are changing with the S60 and the XC60.

PRicE

ENGiNE

76

L: 4963mm w: 2019mm h: 1443mm boot: na Fuel tank: 55 litres ground clearance: 152mm

L: 4384mm w: 1699mm h: 1466mm boot: 527 litres, Fuel tank: 55 litres, ground clearance: 168mm

the s60 comes as a breath of fresh air; it’s a comfortable tourer and a worthy adversary to the german trio.

PRicE

DATA IN NumBERs: which bajaj 150? → Discover 14.3bhp → Pulsar 15.06bhp → V15 12bhp

puLsar arguably, india’s most popular bike for those who crave power and flamboyance. near-perfect bike, fast, fun and practical. PRicE

Nm

kph 0-100

1cyl 150cc 14.5 12.5 NA 1cyl 220cc 19.03 17.5 NA 1cyl 220cc 19.03 17.5 NA

NA NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA NA

8/10 7/10 7/10

seat height: namm, wheelbase: 1480-1490mm, ground clearance:mm, weight: 148-155kg, Fuel tank : 14ltrs

150 180 220 RS200 ABS AS150 AS200

0.87 0.91 1.08 1.59 0.99 1.12

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

1cyl 149.5cc 15.06 12.5 NA 1cyl 178cc 17 14.22 NA 1cyl 220cc 21 19.2 NA 1cyl 199.5cc 24 18.6 NA 1cyl 149.5cc 17 13 NA 1cyl 199.5cc 23 18 NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA 52.6 4/10 NA 45 4/10 NA 35 5/10 NA NA 7/10 NA NA 7/10 NA NA 7/10

seat height: namm, wheelbase: 1320mm, ground clearance: 165mm, weight: 137-165kg, Fuel tank: 15ltrs

enduro

the world of four-cylinder motorcycles is now more accessible thanks to the reasonably-priced 600i. i

PRicE

ENGiNE

R 1200 GS 29.23* 2cyl 1170cc R 1200 GS Adventure 29.98* 2cyl 1170cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

110 120 NA 110 120 NA

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

-

seat height: 850/890mm, wheelbase: 1510mm, ground clearance: namm, weight: 234/259kg, Fuel tank: 20/33ltrs

PRicE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

84 54.6 NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

7/10

PRicE

ENGiNE

6.95

4cyl 600cc

bhp

ENGiNE

23.86* 2cyl 1170cc 28.10* 4cyl 1293cc

bhp

821 Nm

kph 0-100

84 54.6 NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

8/10

a characterful, large-hearted three-pot naked that’s priced a little too high. kph 0-100

123 125 NA 173 140 NA

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

-

899

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

11.04

3cyl 898cc

119

85

NA

NA

7/10

NA

PRicE

ENGiNE

28.32* 4cyl 999cc 28.10* 4cyl 1293cc

bhp

kph 0-100

193 113 NA 172 140 NA

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

-

Long-range missiles. the only question is, two cylinders or six?

35.78* 6cyl 1649cc 39.19* 6cyl 1649cc

bhp

13.67

3cyl 1131cc

bhp

Nm

135 114

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA

NA

7/10

NA

seat height: namm, wheelbase: 1443mm, ground clearance: 130mm, weight: 231kg, Fuel tank: 16ltrs

158 175 158 175

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

NA NA

-

NA NA

PRicE

ENGiNE

6.20 3.38

2cyl 647cc 2cyl 249cc

bhp

TopGear on DSK Benelli: Say hello to the other Italian bikemaker: Benelli is now in India, with its entire range of TNT motorcycles.

250R 650R

PRicE

ENGiNE

Nm

kph 0-100

74 62.1 NA 26 21 NA

3.50 5.68

2cyl 249cc 2cyl 647cc

bhp

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

23 NA

6/10 6/10

ENGiNE

1cyl 249cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

28.1 21.6 NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

8/10

seat height: namm, wheelbase: 1400mm, ground clearance: 160mm, weight: 159kg, Fuel tank: 17ltrs

Nm

kph 0-100

28 22.6 NA 72.7 61 NA

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

4/10 5/10

PRicE

Dark Carbon XDiavel S

ENGiNE

15.24* 2cyl 1198cc 18.67* 2cyl 1198cc 19* 2cyl 1262cc

bhp

1299 959

ENGiNE

bhp

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

NA

RATiNG

NA

7/10

seat height: namm, wheelbase: 1410mm, ground clearance: 160mm, weight: 196kg, Fuel tank: 16ltrs

ST7

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

4.52

2cyl 647cc

72.7

61

NA

NA

6/10

PRicE

ENGiNE

6.20

2cyl 678cc

bhp

NA NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA NA

8/10 -

Nm

kph 0-100

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

8/10

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

7.27

2cyl 803cc

74

68

NA

NA

8/10

NA

seat height: 790mm, wheelbase: 1445mm, ground clearance: namm, weight: 186kg, Fuel tank: 13.5ltrs

NA

seat height: namm, wheelbase: 1445mm, ground clearance: namm, weight: 208kg, Fuel tank: 14ltrs

kpl

kph 0-100

PRicE

HarLey-daVidson TopGear on Harley-Davidson: They define cruisers. Local assembly has allowed them to drop prices and made their bikes even more appealing.

CVo

37.7 26.5 NA

Nm

there was a scrambler back in the day, and this new one’s just as simple (and as much fun) as the original.

a full-blown tourer fitted with every last bell and whistle from Milwaukee. Mindnumbingly expensive.

ENGiNE

-

sCraMBLer

it’s hard to see why someone would pick the st7 over a harley, unless hyosung offers a solid bargain.

2cyl 300cc

RATiNG

NA NA

NA NA

seat height: 830mm, wheelbase: 1431-1442mm, ground clearance: namm, weight: 176/190kg, Fuel tank: 17ltrs

st7

3.53

kpl

NA NA

35.50* 2cyl 1285cc 202 136 NA 14.37* 2cyl 955cc 157 109 NA

the most affordable twin-cylinder italian in our land. PRicE

kph 0-100

160 130 NA 160 130 NA 156 126 NA

tnt 300

300

Nm

seat height: 830mm, wheelbase: 1490mm, ground clearance: namm, weight: 181kg, Fuel tank: 16ltrs

Icon Yellow

the more fun, naked version of the gt650r, the gt650n is a perfect ride for the city. 650N

bhp

→ duCATi PANiGALe 1299: 1285cc L-twin

Gt n

single-cylinder benelli is a versatile little number. a load of fun, too.

ENGiNE

2cyl 821cc 108.6 89 2cyl 821cc 108.6 89

DATA IN NumBERs: a quesTion of size

seat height: 780mm, wheelbase: 1475mm, ground clearance: namm, weight: 171kg, Fuel tank: 8ltrs

tnt 25

11.16* NA

PRicE

a poser’s bike for all those who want a looker and could not care less about performance

dsK BeneLLi

2.07

Hypermotard Hyperstrada

Gt

→ BmW k1600 GTl: 6cyl 1649cc engine

PRicE

HyperMotard

seat height: 705mm, wheelbase: 1610mm, ground clearance: namm, weight: 218kg, Fuel tank: 16ltrs

DATA IN NumBERs: 6cyl on a biKe!

8/10

road-going version of ducati’s wsbk entry. Promises to be a blast to ride.

a v-twin cruiser that offers bling and power (with the Pro) and value for money (with the 250) Pro 250

seat height: 750mm, wheelbase: 1618mm, ground clearance: namm, weight: 348kg, Fuel tank: 26.5ltrs

RATiNG

NA

NA

paniGaLe

aquiLa Nm

kpl

NA

seat height: 770mm, wheelbase: 1580mm, ground clearance: namm, weight: 234kg, Fuel tank: 16ltrs

TopGear on DSK Hyosung: The Korean manufacturer tries to give the same thrills as its Japanese and American rivals at a more affordable price.

tour ENGiNE

ENGiNE

kph 0-100

89

seat height: 810mm, wheelbase: 1500mm, ground clearance: namm, weight: 188kg, Fuel tank: 17ltrs

dsK HyosunG

seat height: 815mm, wheelbase: 1440mm, ground clearance: namm, weight: 178/254kg, Fuel tank: 17.5/19 litre

PRicE

1130

PRicE

Nm

110

now refreshed, the diavel is just as big and bad as it used to be.

the pinnacle of the tnt range. Massive, eye-catching (in gold), and just as explosive as the name suggests. Nm

bhp

diaVeL

tnt r

Quite simply, the best litre-bike there is.

ENGiNE

2cyl 821cc

PRicE

seat height: namm, wheelbase: 1443mm, ground clearance: 130mm, weight: 231kg, Fuel tank: 16ltrs

sport

PRicE

10.55

a ducati that’s really pushing the limits. Loaded to the gills with kit.

tnt 899 Nm

Monster the most iconic modern-day ducati. the 821 has now ed the ranks.

think 600i with a half-fairing and hard saddlebags, but only better in every single way.

seat height: 800/820mm, wheelbase: 1495mm, ground clearance: namm, weight: 231/243kg, Fuel tank: 18/19ltrs



4cyl 600cc

seat height: namm, wheelbase: 1470mm, ground clearance: 150mm, weight: 243kg, Fuel tank: 27ltrs

hooliganism, the bMw way – pick a boxer or a more conventional inline-four.

K 1600 GT K 1600 GTL

ENGiNE

6.63

tnt 600Gt

GT S

roadster

S1000 RR K1300 S

PRicE

TopGear on Ducati: Indian Ducatisti, rejoice! The Italians have returned in full force. No Multistrada for the moment, though.

seat height: namm, wheelbase: 1480mm, ground clearance: 150mm, weight: 231kg, Fuel tank: 15ltrs

a real-life legend. will go on forever, taking a couple of armageddons in its stride.

R 1200 R K 1300 R

duCati

tnt 600i

TopGear on BMW: Today, Bavaria’s famed two-wheeled company still makes their ever-lovin’ boxer-engined monuments.

Nm

kph 0-100

61.6 57.3 NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

5/10

seat height: 762mm, wheelbase: 1690mm, ground clearance: namm, weight: 244kg, Fuel tank: 18ltrs

PRicE

CVO

ENGiNE

66.63 2cyl 1801cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

NA 156 NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

-

seat height: 740mm, wheelbase: 1625mm, ground clearance: 135mm, weight: 416kg, Fuel tank: 22.7ltrs TOPGEar.cOm

→

January 2017

119

BMW - HArLey-dAVidSON

BMW

HArLey-dAVidSON-HerO

TopGear Top five

dyna this one’s on a diet and has all unnecessary weight sawed off. great if you aren’t much of a fan of bulky tourers Street Bob Fat Bob

PRicE

ENGiNE

13.6 16.51

2cyl 1585cc 2cyl 1585cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

NA 126 NA NA 126 NA

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

5/10

1

Must have one for all arnie/terminator fans. Lots of chrome and scope for customisation, not necessarily a comfortable ride. PRicE

Breakout Fatboy Heritage Classic

ENGiNE

20.79 2cyl 1690cc 20.54 2cyl 1690cc 22.27 2cyl 1690cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

NA 130 NA NA 133 NA NA 130 NA

NA NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA NA

7/10 7/10 8/10

seat height: 660-690mm, wheelbase: 1710mm, ground clearance: 130mm, weight: 333kg, Fuel tank: 19ltrs

This is your ticket to the world of cruiser. The Street 750 is HD’s entry bike, but comes with all the goodies you expect from the legendary motorcycle manufacture. Not to mention, there’s a long list of customisation that you can do to give it that individual look.

2 Price `5.64 lakh specs in-line 2 cyl, 649cc, 6M, 71bhp, 64Nm

still short, sharp-handling motorcycle, although bigger = more power. always a good thing. PRicE

ENGiNE

11.72 2cyl 1202cc 10 2cyl 883cc 12 2cyl 1202cc 12.32 2cyl 1202cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA NA NA

96 69 95 95

NA NA NA NA

NA NA NA NA

7/10 6/10 7/10 -

NA NA NA NA

seat height: 710mm, wheelbase: 1495-1515mm, ground clearance: 140mm, weight: 247kg, Fuel tank: 8-13ltrs

Looking for something more agile than laidback cruising? Then take a look at ER-6N; the street bike from Kawasaki is the bike to go for. The peppy 650cc motor is a joy to ride not to forget the bulletproof build quality that the Japanese bike maker is known for.

3

street h-d’s entry motorcycle that looks like a scaled down night-rod special, rides like a mini hot-rod too PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

6.57

2cyl 749cc

NA

60

NA

NA

8/10

Street 750

NA

seat height: 710mm, wheelbase: 1535mm, ground clearance: 145mm, weight: 223kg, Fuel tank: 13ltrs

tourinG it’s quite literally what the name suggests. you can slap on a lot of touring gear to lug around your house with you. PRicE

Street Glide Road Glide Road King

ENGiNE

43.54 2cyl 1198cc 44.10 2cyl 174cc 37.32 2cyl 174cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

NA 138 NA NA 150 NA NA 150 NA

NA NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA NA

-

hd fans have Porsche to thank for this one. one high-revving, smooth-pulling power cruiser, if that’s your thing. PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

25.71

2cyl 1247cc

NA

111

NA

NA

8/10

seat height: 675mm, wheelbase: 1700mm, ground clearance: 115mm, weight: 302kg, Fuel tank: 18.9ltrs

Some people prefer looks to performance, or simply want to reach a coffee shop in style. The GT ticks all the boxes as far as style goes. It design is reminiscent of the 60’s British café racer. Not to worry about performance though, as the 535cc motor comes with enough torque to keep thumper loyalist happy.

4

TopGear on Hero: The Honda name has been striked out. Now its Hero vs Honda as the Japanese bike maker tries to grab market share from its old ally.

aCHieVer 150 hero’s new commuter is high on quality and refinement. Pretty fuel efficient and priced competitively, too Disc

ENGiNE

0.62*

1cyl 149cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

13.4 12.8 NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

7/10

seat height: 800mm, wheelbase: 1290mm, ground clearance: 160mm, weight: 129kg, Fuel tank: 12.5ltrs

12 0

January 2017 →

TOPGEar.cOm

PRicE

ENGiNE

0.52

1cyl 111cc

bhp

Nm

8.3 8.3

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA

NA

6/10

NA

seat height: 770mm, wheelbase: 1241mm, ground clearance: 155mm, weight: 116kg, Fuel tank: 5.5ltrs

HunK hero’s third variant in the 150cc category. we wonder whether the name makes sense at all. Hunk

PRicE

ENGiNE

0.83

1cyl 149cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

14.4 12.8 NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

3/10

seat height: 795mm, wheelbase: 1320mm, ground clearance: 163mm, weight: 146kg, Fuel tank: 12.4ltrs

this is hero’s attempt at stunning you. Looks a bit different, offers more features than the stunner. Ignitor

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

0.72

1cyl 124cc

11

11

NA

NA

4/10

NA

seat height: 795mm, wheelbase: 1270mm, ground clearance: 175mm, weight: 129kg, Fuel tank: 10.4ltrs

iMpuLse the only option if you like it dirty.

Impulse

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

0.82

1cyl 149cc

13

13.4 NA

kph 0-100

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

6/10

seat height: 835mm, wheelbase: 1360mm, ground clearance: 245mm, weight: 134kg, Fuel tank: 13.7ltrs

KariZMa the only challenger to the Pulsar 220 dts-i. Finally gets a much-needed facelift and fuel-injection system. Karizma R ZMR Fi

PRicE

ENGiNE

0.94 1.16

1cyl 223cc 1cyl 223cc

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

17.6 18.3 125 3.8 17.6 18.3 126 3.7

bhp

Nm

NA NA

5/10 5/10

seat height: 810mm, wheelbase: 1360mm, ground clearance: 145mm, weight: 157kg, Fuel tank: 15.3ltrs

Maestro yAmAHA yzF-R3

When it comes to performance, Yamaha knows a thing or two about sport bikes. The R3 is a latest example of a pocket rocket from this Japanese bike maker. Its gorgeous looks, powerful 320cc motor, and a tempting price tag, all make the R3 a desirable entry level sports bike.

5

Hero

PRicE

VX

a testosterone-charged scooter aimed at men. big size and proven mechanicals.

Price `3.85 lakhs specs in-line 2cyl 320cc, 6M, 41.5bhp, 29.6Nm

V-rod

NA

RoyAl ENFIElD CoNTINENTAl GT

Price `2.23 lakh specs 1cyl, 535cc, 5M, 29.1bhp, 44Nm

seat height: 695mm, wheelbase: 1625mm, ground clearance: 135mm, weight: 356kg, Fuel tank: 23ltrs

NightRod Special

hero’s latest metal-bodied alternative to a honda activa. sedate, and packed with some nice features.

iGnitor kAWAsAkI ER-6N

sportster

1200 Custom Iron 883 Forty Eight Roadster

HARlEy-DAVIDsoN sTREET 750

Price `4.9 lakh specs Liquidcooled, V-twin, 749cc, 60Nm

seat height: 680-690mm, wheelbase: 1625mm, ground clearance: 120mm, weight: 291-306kg, Fuel tank: 19ltrs

soFtaiL

BUdget Big BikeS

duet

Maestro

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

1cyl 109cc

8

9.1

NA

43.6 6/10

NA

RATiNG

Maestro edGe the first of hero’s all-new products. Looks sharp, and gets some nifty features. PRicE

ENGiNE

0. 51

1cyl 111cc

bhp

Nm

8.3 8.3

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA

NA

7/10

NA

seat height: 775mm, wheelbase: 1261mm, ground clearance: 155mm, weight: 110kg, Fuel tank: 5.5ltrs

Dsk BENEllI 600GT

A long ride companion, this is a go anywhere motorcycle from italian bike maker Benelli. The projector headlamp, detachable saddlebags and large 27-litre fuel tank bolster the GT’s touring credentials. Looks are subjective here, but we love the futuristic styling that gives this bike its unique character.

ENGiNE

0.59

seat height: 770mm, wheelbase: 1240mm, ground clearance: 155mm, weight: 110kg, Fuel tank: 5.3ltrs

LX

Price `6.70 lakhs specs in-line 4cyl, 600cc, 6M, 84bhp, 54Nm

PRicE

ion a facelifted effort which is still chugging along? the ion is all lost but the will to move on is in abundance. X Pro Pro

PRicE

ENGiNE

0.64 0.61

1cyl 109cc 1cyl 97cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

12 9.4 NA 10.5 7.95 NA

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

5/10 5/10

seat height: 785mm, wheelbase: 1230mm, ground clearance: 170mm, weight: 116kg, Fuel tank: 9.5ltrs

CB Hornet 160r

LiVo

hero’s first automatic scooter is aimed at women only! and women are buying it with pleasure.

the unicorn 160’s sportier cousin. Looks fine, goes well, too.

honda’s replaced the edgy-looking twister with the Livo. is claimed to return 74km to a litre.

Pleasure

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

0.53

1cyl 102cc

7

7.8

NA

NA

5/10

NA

CBS

seat height: 760mm, wheelbase: 1240mm, ground clearance: 125mm, weight: 101kg, Fuel tank: 5ltrs

ENGiNE

bhp

0.65 0.63 0.61

1cyl 125cc 1cyl 97cc 1cyl 97cc

9 8 8

Nm

kph 0-100

10.3 NA 8 NA 8 NA

NA NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA NA

5/10 5/10 7/10

seat height: 785mm, wheelbase: 1235mm, ground clearance: 160mm, weight: 110kg, Fuel tank: 10.5ltrs

XtreMe

0.83 0.87

1cyl 149cc 1cyl 149cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

14.4 12.8 NA 15.6 13.5 NA

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

3/10 3/10

seat height: 800mm, wheelbase: 1325mm, ground clearance: 163mm, weight: 146kg, Fuel tank: 13.6ltrs

aCtiVa PRicE

ENGiNE

0.73 0.65 0.61

1cyl 124.9cc 1cyl 109cc 1cyl 109cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

8.6 10.12 NA 8 9 NA 8 8.7 NA

NA NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA NA

7/10 8/10 5/10

SP CBS

PRicE

ENGiNE

0.80

1cyl 124.7cc

8/10

bhp

CBS

PRicE

ENGiNE

0.92

1cyl 162cc

Nm

kph 0-100

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

7/10

Nm

kph 0-100

14.5 14.6 NA

bhp

5

kpl

RATiNG

60

8/10

ENGiNE

bhp

0.67

1cyl 109cc

8

Nm

kph 0-100

8.77 NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

6/10

seat height: 790mm, wheelbase: 1256mm, ground clearance: 145mm, weight: 109kg, Fuel tank: 6ltrs

Nm

kph 0-100

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

5/10 6/10

the most pocket friendly and usable litre bike that you can buy today. crazy singleside swingarm takes the cake bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

4cyl 998cc 123.3 100 NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

8/10

seat height: 825mm, wheelbase: 1445mm, ground clearance: 130mm, weight: 222kg, Fuel tank: 17ltrs

bhp

Nm

4cyl 999cc 175.6 112

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA

NA

7/10

NA

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

0.63

1cyl 109cc

8

ENGiNE

0.59 0.65

1cyl 109cc 1cyl 109cc

Nm

kph 0-100

8.77 NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

7/10

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

8.25

4cyl 649cc

85

63

NA

NA

8/10

NA

seat height: 810mm, wheelbase: 1449mm, ground clearance: 133mm, weight: 215kg, Fuel tank: 17.3ltrs

Audio Comfort Airbag

ENGiNE

28.50* 6cyl 1832cc 31.50* 6cyl 1832cc

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

8

9

NA

36.2 8/10

NA

RATiNG

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

170 129

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA

NA

6/10

NA

1300CX

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

16.66

2cyl 1312cc

57

107

NA

NA

-

NA

seat height: 678mm, wheelbase: 1805mm, ground clearance: namm, weight: 303kg, Fuel tank: 12.8ltrs

bhp

CHieF CLassiC a genuine alternative to a harley with classic looks and a torquey engine, though the pricing could’ve been better. PRicE

ENGiNE

29.4

2cyl 1811cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

NA 138.9 NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

7/10

CHieF VintaGe if you are into leathers. if you know what we mean. PRicE

ENGiNE

32.82

2cyl 1811cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

NA 138.9 NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

8/10

seat height: 660mm, wheelbase: 1730mm, ground clearance: 140mm, weight: 379kg, Fuel tank: 20.8ltrs Nm

kph 0-100

8.25 8.63 NA 8.25 8.63 NA

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

6/10 6/10

seat height: namm, wheelbase: 1285mm, ground clearance: 169mm, weight: 108kg, Fuel tank: 8ltrs

PRicE

PRicE

bhp

1cyl 110cc

20.60 4cyl 1237cc

Vintage

DATA IN NumBERs: indian Tour → Vintage: `32.82 lakh → Chieftain: `36.82 lakh → Roaster: `40.82 lakh

CHieFtain

the ultimate touring machine is here. you can also have one equipped with an airbag!

Four-cylinder, 649cc sport-tourer from the house of honda. Low level of localisation keeps the price high.

ENGiNE

0.53

seat height: 660mm, wheelbase: 1730mm, ground clearance: 140mm, weight: 341kg, Fuel tank: 20.8ltrs

dreaM PRicE

PRicE

PRicE

1200F

Classic

GoLd WinG

CBr 650F

Standard

TopGear on INDIAN: The oldest American motorcycle brand comes to India to take on its oldest American rival.

seat height: 765mm, wheelbase: 1238mm, ground clearance: 158mm, weight: 105kg, Fuel tank: 6ltrs

CD 110 Yuga

-

indian

honda’s attack deep into hero territory. wing riding for the commuter.

CB 1000r

RATiNG

NA

honda’s only cruiser for india.

the refreshingly new dio is a stunner. one of the best lookers in the country, though it needs more firepower. Dio

kpl

Vt 1300 CX

18 13 NA 26.1 22.9 NA

ENGiNE

NA

seat height: 815mm, wheelbase: 1545mm, ground clearance: 128mm, weight: 267kg, Fuel tank: 19ltrs

another insanely quick bike to tear up our roads.

18.13

kph 0-100

brilliant all-rounder, the v4 engine and the dual-clutch transmission makes this bike extra special.

dio

Just like the dio, it uses the same engine as in the activa. but all-new bodywork that’s supposed to appeal to men. really?

ENGiNE

1cyl 149cc 1cyl 249cc

Nm

8.2 8.63 NA

VFr

seat height: 820mm, wheelbase: 1410mm, ground clearance: 130mm, weight: 211kg, Fuel tank: 17.5ltrs

aViator

PRicE

ENGiNE

1.49 2.27

bhp

seat height: 765mm, wheelbase: 1286mm, ground clearance: 156mm, weight: 101kg, Fuel tank: 3.8ltrs

CBr 1000rr

1000RR

→ Activa: 5.3-litre fuel tank → Navi: 3.8-litre fuel tank

13.92

PRicE

1cyl 109cc

a cross between a motorcycle and a scooter, the navi is a weird little thing – in a good way

seat height: namm, wheelbase: 1324mm, ground clearance: 150mm, weight: 135kg, Fuel tank: 12ltrs

150R 250R ABS

ENGiNE

0.67

naVi

10.5 10.3 NA

bhp

PRicE

seat height: namm, wheelbase: 1285mm, ground clearance: 180mm, weight: 111kg, Fuel tank: 8.5ltrs

CB unicorn 160

DATA IN NumBERs: fun or range?

PRicE

Disc

seat height: namm, wheelbase: 1260mm, ground clearance: 164mm, weight: 140kg, Fuel tank: 11ltrs

PRicE

seat height: 765mm, wheelbase: 1238mm, ground clearance: 165mm, weight: 103-108kg, Fuel tank: 5.3ltrs

650F

RATiNG

64

seat height: namm, wheelbase: 1367mm, ground clearance: 145mm, weight: 138-163kg, Fuel tank: 13ltrs

bland styling that now looks dated in the face of fresher competition. you could swear on its quality and reliability though.

1000R

kpl

the 250 has been around for sometime and now you get it in 150 too!

TopGear on Honda: Japanese giants have decided to go the full hog themselves and have motorcycles in every segment.

Drum

Nm

CBr

Honda

Activa 125 Std Activa 3G Activa-i

bhp

the trusty honda, now available with a bigger 160cc motor.

there’s nothing understated about the bike’s looks, quite unlike its predecessor.

Xtreme Sports

kph 0-100

15.6 14.76 NA 14.13

it’s now got a fair bit of ‘shine’ with bits like alloy wheels, electric start and sporty decals.

PRicE

ENGiNE

1cyl 162.7cc

CB sHine

india’s commuter bike of choice. also available as a cafe racer, but take the ‘racer’ bit with lots of salt

PRicE

ENGiNE

1.04

seat height: namm, wheelbase: 1345mm, ground clearance: 164mm, weight: 140kg, Fuel tank: 12ltrs

spLendor

Super Splendor iSmart Pro Classic

PRicE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

117 117

167 167

NA NA

NA NA

-

NA NA

seat height: 739mm, wheelbase: 1689mm, ground clearance: namm, weight: 421kg, Fuel tank: 25ltrs

a powerful motorcycle which comes with a fairing to stop those wind blasts for comfortable rides. Chieftain

PRicE

ENGiNE

36.82

2cyl 1811cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

NA 138.9 NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

9/10

seat height: 660mm, wheelbase: 1668mm, ground clearance: 142mm, weight: 389kg, Fuel tank: 20.8ltrs TOPGEar.cOm

→

January 2017

121

HerO-iNdiAN

pLeasure

iNdiAN-MOTO Guzzi

darK Horse

Z250

duro dZ

the most basic offering of the chief range is also the meanest.

the ninja 250 that’s been stripped down to create a stunning street bike. expensive, but hey, an extra cylinder costs money.

the all-new duro, well not all that new. the kinetic nova?

Dark Horse

PRicE

ENGiNE

25.52

2cyl 1811cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

NA 138.9 NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

8/10

Z250

seat height: 660mm, wheelbase: 1730mm, ground clearance: 140mm, weight: 357kg, Fuel tank: 20.8ltrs

PRicE

ENGiNE

31.08* 2cyl 1811cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

NA 138.9 NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

-

kpl

RATiNG

NA

NA

7/10

NA

Roaster

PRicE

ENGiNE

40.42

2cyl1811cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

NA 138.9 NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

7/10

Scout Scout Sixty

14.42 12*

2cyl 1133cc 2cyl 999cc

4cyl 806cc

bhp

Nm

111.3 83

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA

NA

8/10

NA

kph 0-100

100 97.7 NA 76 88.2 NA

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

8/10 7/10

seat height: 635-643mm, wheelbase: 1562mm, ground clearance: 135mm, weight: 246-253kg, Fuel tank: 12.5ltrs

KaWasaKi

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA

4cyl 1043cc

140

111

NA

NA

7/10

NA

TopGear on KTM: Hooligans par excellence come to India, courtesy Bajaj, and bring along their unparalleled sense of mayhem.

true to its heritage, the duke 200 is a machine that is easily swayed into almost anti-social antics. top shelf parts and value for money

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

5.64

2cyl649cc

71

64

NA

NA

8/10

NA

bhp

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

39 27 NA 6.7 72 64 NA 6.7 140 111 NA NA 197 112 NA NA 210 162.5 300 2.6 197 133 NA NA

Nm

21.5 17.3 NA NA 16.7 NA

7/10 7/10 8/10 9/10 9/10 -

the adventure-tourer available in two flavours. a set of fine machines, these. Priced quite well, too. ENGiNE

2cyl 649cc 4cyl 1043cc

bhp

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

NA 33

8/10 9/10

NA NA

Nm

kph 0-100

68 64 NA 118 102 NA

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

8/10 8/10

seat height: 840mm, wheelbase: 1400mm, ground clearance: 170mm, weight: 216-250kg, Fuel tank: 21ltrs

January 2017 →

TOPGEar.cOm

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

0.66

1cyl 125cc

8.5

10

NA

NA

-

PRicE

200 390

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

1.95

1cyl 295cc

27

30

NA

NA

7/10

NA

1.94 2.45

ENGiNE

bhp

rodeo uZo More focused on youngsters. takes on the likes of the activa and the dio. PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

0.59

1cyl 124cc

8

9

80

45

4/10

seat height: 760mm, wheelbase: 1245mm, ground clearance: 154mm, weight: 106kg, Fuel tank: 4.5ltrs

Moto GuZZi audaCe PRicE

Audace Nm

1cyl 199.5cc 25.5 19 1cyl 373.2cc 43 35

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

NA NA

8/10 8/10

NA NA

MaHindra

ENGiNE

26.15 2cyl 1380cc

1400 Touring ABS

ENGiNE

27.85 2cyl 1380cc

a california with a retro twist: the eldorado is what a cruiser of the 70s would look like today

bhp

Nm

8.4 8.5

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA

NA

4/10

NA

seat height: 800mm, wheelbase: 1265mm, ground clearance: 173mm, weight: 120kg, Fuel tank: 12.7ltrs

kpl

RATiNG

NA

NA

8/10

NA

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

94

121

NA

NA

-

NA

seat height: 740mm, wheelbase: 1685mm, ground clearance: 165mm, weight: 346kg, Fuel tank: 20.5ltrs

eLdorado ENGiNE

kph 0-100

121

the long-distance guzzi. relaxed stance, looks that grab attention and plenty of kit. what’s not to like?

Loaded with a list of features that are a first in its class.

1cyl 106.7cc

Nm

94

CaLiFornia

Centuro

0.62

bhp

seat height: 740mm, wheelbase: 1695mm, ground clearance: 165mm, weight: 299kg, Fuel tank: 20.5ltrs

PRicE

PRicE

NA

if you’re a motorcycle enthusiast with an eye for art and a loaded bank , you can’t ignore this one.

seat height: 834mm, wheelbase: 1480-1490mm, ground clearance: 169mm, weight: 147-155kg, Fuel tank: 11ltrs

N1 Disc

NA

TopGear on Moto Guzzi: Maker of some wacky (and largely good-looking) big bikes. Only sold through Piaggio’s ‘Motoplex’ outlets, though.

TopGear on Mahindra: After buying the defunct Kinetic motors, Mahindra has taken its first step into the highly competitive two-wheeler market.

Versys

7.22 13.4

Nm

ktM decided to take the duke brothers racing, and so, with some help from the ktM Moto3 team, the rcs were born.

seat height: 762mm, wheelbase: 1399mm, ground clearance: 140mm, weight: 172kg, Fuel tank: 18ltrs

PRicE

bhp

rC

handles like an r15, comfort levels as good as a karizma and more power than both put together. ENGiNE

ENGiNE

1cyl 199.5cc 25.5 19 1cyl 373.2cc 43 35

→ kTm Duke 390: 296bhp per tonne

ninja

4.15 2cyl 296cc 6.11 2cyl 649cc NA 4cyl 1043cc NA 4cyl 998cc NA 4cyl 1441cc 33.56 4cyl 998cc

1.65 2.23

DATA IN NumBERs: power To weighT

seat height: 805mm, wheelbase: 1410mm, ground clearance: 130mm, weight: 204kg, Fuel tank: 16ltrs

5/10

your eyes aren’t deceiving you – the Mojo has finally arrived, so you can stop looking at spy shots and actually buy one.

Rodeo

seat height: 810mm, wheelbase: 1361mm, ground clearance: 165mm, weight: 125kg, Fuel tank: 10.5ltrs

PRicE

PRicE

125 VX

Mojo

KtM

200 390

a middleweight naked bike based on the ninja 650r that’s primed to take on triumph’s street triple.

RATiNG

45

NA

seat height: 814mm, wheelbase: 1465mm, ground clearance: 173.5mm, weight: 165kg, Fuel tank: 21ltrs

PRicE

er-6n

kpl

80

Mojo

duKe

TopGear on Kawasaki: Reviving anoldpartnershipwithBajajhasseenthemreturntoIndia. Theyareplayingitsafebutmaybetoosafefortheirowngood.

kph 0-100

9

→ Gusto: 110cc, 8bhp, `62,000 → Duro: 124cc, 8bhp, `56,000 → Rodeo uzo: 124cc, 8bhp, `59,000

seat height: 815mm, wheelbase: 1435mm, ground clearance: 125mm, weight: 221kg, Fuel tank: 17ltrs Nm

Nm

8

DATA IN NumBERs: which m2w scooT?

Z1000

Z1000

bhp

1cyl 124cc

seat height: 770mm, wheelbase: 1275mm, ground clearance: 165mm, weight: 105kg, Fuel tank: 6ltrs

with looks that could sear the soul, the Z1000 is a naked bike that you absolutely want. immensely powerful inline-four adds the ‘X-factor’.

the smallest new indian motorcycle, the scout is here to take the fight to harley’s dyna range. bhp

ENGiNE

NA

ENGiNE

0.56

Mahindra’s first all-new scooter. developed in Pune, styled in italy. a decent alternative to other offerings.

→ kawasaki z800: 111.3bhp, `8.95 lakh → Triumph street Triple: 78bhp, `9.25 lakh

sCout ENGiNE

PRicE

PRicE

Gusto

DATA IN NumBERs: more for less

seat height: 635mm, wheelbase: 1668mm, ground clearance: 140mm, weight: 406kg, Fuel tank: 20.8ltrs

PRicE

Duro

seat height: 790mm, wheelbase: 1270mm, ground clearance: 155mm, weight: 114kg, Fuel tank: 6.5ltrs

seat height: 834mm, wheelbase: 1445mm, ground clearance: 150mm, weight: 231kg, Fuel tank: 17ltrs

if you thought the chieftain was about as good a tourer as indian could make, say hello to the master.

122

kph 0-100

21

Z800

roaster

650 1000

Nm

31.5

if the mighty Z1000 is too powerful for you, the Z800 is the perfect choice.

seat height: 660mm, wheelbase: 1701mm, ground clearance: 142mm, weight: 372kg, Fuel tank: 20.8ltrs

300 650 1000 ZX-10R ZX-14R H2

bhp

2cyl 249cc

Z800

From highway-munching tourer to boulevard cruiser in a matter of minutes: that’s the indian springfield for you

ER-6N

ENGiNE

3.55

seat height: 785mm, wheelbase: 1400mm, ground clearance: 145mm, weight: 168kg, Fuel tank: 17ltrs

sprinGFieLd

Springfield

PRicE

PRicE

Eldorado

ENGiNE

26.75 2cyl 1380cc

bhp

Nm

94

120 NA

kph 0-100

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

-

seat height: 740mm, wheelbase: 1695mm, ground clearance: 165mm, weight: 314kg, Fuel tank: 20.5ltrs

Moto guzzi’s hard-hitting super-naked is a looker. it’s an underrated machine that’d surprise most people SE

PRicE

ENGiNE

20.31

2cyl 1151cc

bhp

Nm

103 107

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA

NA

-

NA

1

kTm RC 200

seat height: na, wheelbase: na, ground clearance: na, weight: 231kg, Fuel tank: 17ltrs

Price `1.94 lakh, Spec 1cyl, 199.5cc, 6M, 25.5bhp, 19Nm.

MGX-21 a concept bike that made it to production largely unchanged, the MgX-21 was built to attract buyers from the usa PRicE

MGX-21

ENGiNE

27.78* 2cyl 1380cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

94

121

NA

NA

-

NA

seat height: 740mm, wheelbase: na, ground clearance: 165mm, weight: 341kg, Fuel tank: 20.5ltrs

V9 PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

16.62

2cyl 850cc

55

50

NA

NA

-

NA

MV aGusta TopGear on MV Agusta: Lugging debts along, still churning out fire-breathing beauties. MV is now in India with the Kinetic group with its entire range

F3 PRicE

ENGiNE

16.78* 3cyl 798cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

146

90

NA

NA

-

NA

seat height: 805mm, wheelbase: 1380mm, ground clearance: 125mm, weight: 173kg, Fuel tank: 16.5ltrs

F4 the world’s most beautiful bike, they call it. we’re mesmerised. an absolute rocket of a motorcycle. PRicE

F4 RR

ENGiNE

26.87* 4cyl 998cc 35.71* 4cyl 998cc

Price `1.75 lakh, Spec 1cyl, 249cc, 6M, 28.1bhp, 21.6Nm

Performance bundled with delicious Italian styling: the TNT 25 is Benelli’s take on the popular streetfighter theme, and this bike’s a complete hooligan at heart. The best part is thatyou don’t have to have deep pockets to buy this little monster, and the riding experience will leave you thirsty for more.

3

a smaller version of the “world’s most beautiful bike”. and after feasting our eyes on it, we believe them

bhp

Nm

192 113 198 116

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

NA NA

9/10 -

NA NA

seat height: 830mm, wheelbase: 1430mm, ground clearance: 115mm, weight: 190kg, Fuel tank: 17ltrs

Looking for something a bit more desi? The TVS RTR 200 V4 is just what you need. It looks fast, it goes fast and it corners pretty damn well. It’s a big leap from the Apache RTR 180, and doesn’t compromise on everyday usability in the name of performance. A real step-up.

PRicE

1090 RR

ENGiNE

20.1* 4cyl 1078cc 24.78* 4cyl 1078cc

bhp

4 Price `1.88 lakh, Spec 1cyl, 295cc, 6M, 27bhp, 30Nm

Nm

kph 0-100

142 114 NA 156 100 NA

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

8/10 8/10

seat height: 825mm, wheelbase: 1438mm, ground clearance: 140-150mm, weight: 183kg, Fuel tank: 23ltrs

royaL enFieLd

350 500 Electra

PRicE

ENGiNE

1.36 1.95 1.55

1cyl 346cc 1cyl 499cc 1cyl 499cc

bhp

If going really fast is not your thing, here’s a bike that you can enjoy at an easier pace. The Mojo is a very capable tourer with a sprinkling of performance to keep things interesting. It handles well, the grip from the Pirelli tyres is immense, and it sounds nice, too. A tad expensive, but worth the money.

Nm

kph 0-100

19.8 28 NA 26 40.9 117 27.2 41.3 NA

NA NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA NA

4/10 6/10 4/10

seat height: namm, wheelbase: 1370mm, ground clearance: 135mm, weight: 163kg, Fuel tank: 14.5ltrs

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

19.8 28 120 27.2 41.3 130

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA

5/10 7/10

→ Bullet 500: 26bhp, `1.75 lakh → Classic 500: 27.2bhp, `1.87 lakh

ContinentaL Gt

Continental GT

PRicE

ENGiNE

2.46

1cyl 535cc

bhp

Nm

29.1 44

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA

NA

6/10

NA

seat height: 800mm, wheelbase: 1360mm, ground clearance: 140mm, weight: 184kg, Fuel tank: 13.5ltrs

DATA IN NumBERs: power To weighT → RE Conti GT: 158bhp per tonne

HiMaLayan the first purebred indian adventure motorcycle. can go pretty much anywhere, and looks the part, too. PRicE

ENGiNE

1.94

1cyl 411cc

bhp

Nm

24.5 32

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA

NA

8/10

NA

seat height: 800mm, wheelbase: 1465mm, ground clearance: 220mm, weight: 182kg, Fuel tank: 15ltrs

tHunderBird the cruiser in the crowd. Quite comfortable on the highway and an extremely steady bike. 350 500

PRicE

ENGiNE

1.7 2.22

1cyl 346cc 1cyl 499cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

20 28 120 27.2 41.3 130

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

45 NA

5/10 6/10

suZuKi TopGear on Suzuki: Maker of the fastest production motorcycle of the world has found the going tough in India.

aCCess 125cc power for the price of an activa. Lighter, trendier. and now also offered with a front disc brake. Disc

PRicE

ENGiNE

0.66

1cyl 124cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

8.7 10.2 NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

8/10

seat height: 780mm, wheelbase: 1265mm, ground clearance: 160mm, weight: 102kg, Fuel tank: 5.6ltrs

DATA IN NumBERs: Tale of Two 125s Price `1.54 lakh, Spec 1cyl, 199.5cc, 5M, 24bhp, 18.6Nm

the thump is enough to buzz your senses. however, this one is basic, tough and macho. can ride on almost any surface.

1cyl 346cc 1cyl 499cc

DATA IN NumBERs: pay more for fi

→ Access: 8.7bhp, 102kg, `66,000 → swish: 8.5bhp, 110kg, `57,000

BAJAJ PulsAR Rs 200

BuLLet

ENGiNE

1.63 2

seat height: 800mm, wheelbase: 1370mm, ground clearance: 135mm, weight: 187kg, Fuel tank: 13.5ltrs

5

TopGear on Royal Enfield: They’ve kept alive the charisma of big bore singles although emission norms have muted them to a fair extent.

PRicE

seat height: 775mm, wheelbase: 1240mm, ground clearance: 140mm, weight: 179kg, Fuel tank: 12ltrs

mAHINDRA moJo

they know how to name their vehicles, these italians. this really is a brutal, unforgiving, ultimately rewarding machine

350 500

TVs APACHE RTR 200 V4

Price `1.07 lakh, Spec 1cyl, 197.7cc, 5M 20.7bhp, 18.1Nm

BrutaLe

a true beast. the 500 features the allnew fuel-injected twinspark engine. this is the most refined bike in the bullet stable.

Most powerful re, best-looking re, and the 2013 indian Motorcycle of the year. need we say more?

BENEllI TNT 25

seat height: 780mm, wheelbase: na, ground clearance: na, weight: 199kg, Fuel tank: 15ltrs

800

Unlike what most people think, this is not a Duke 200 that’s put on a fairing. This is a thoroughbred sportsbike with enough performance to satisfy the most demanding of riders. The RC 200 is the perfect tool for the track – especially for those who are new to circuit riding.

2

the smallest of the guzzis, the v9 is more of a rival to the bonnevilles and the ducati scramblers of the world Bobber

SUB-300CC motorCyCleS

CLassiC

Love a fairing on your motorcycle but don’t want to compromise on ergonomics? The Pulsar RS 200 melds commuting convenience and sportsbike styling into one attractive package. Also comes with an attractive price tag, and is equipped with anti-lock brakes.

GiXXer suzuki’s 155cc naked bike has got the yamaha FZ square in its sights.

Gixxer

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

0.80

1cyl 155cc

14.6

14

NA

NA

9/10

NA

seat height: 780mm, wheelbase: 1330mm, ground clearance: 160mm, weight: 135kg, Fuel tank: 12ltrs TOPGEar.cOm

→

January 2017

123

MOTO Guzzi-Suzuki

TopGear Top five

Griso

Suzuki-TriuMPH

TopGear Top five

GiXXer sF Just as good as the naked gixxer, only with a fairing. Looks cooler in the MotogP livery. Gixxer SF

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

0.89

1cyl 155cc

14.6

14

NA

NA

9/10

NA

1

TVs JuPITER

seat height: 780mm, wheelbase: 1330mm, ground clearance: 160mm, weight: 139kg, Fuel tank: 12ltrs

Price `62,000, Specs 109cc, 7.8bhp, 8Nm

GsX suzuki’s litre bike completes a Japanese trio. arguably the most comfortable of the lot. PRicE

R-1000 S1000 S1000 F

ENGiNE

16* 4cyl 999cc 12.25* 4cyl 999cc 12.7* 4cyl 999cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

191 NA NA

NA NA NA

NA NA NA

NA NA NA

8/10 8/10

NA NA NA

Something of a masterstroke from TVS, the Jupiter is one of the best handling scooters on sale today. This is thanks to its large 12-inch wheels. The 110cc motor strikes a good balance between efficiency and performance. Best of all, it is priced reasonably, and it also looks pretty distinctive.

2

seat height: 810mm, wheelbase: 1405-1460mm, ground clearance: 130mm, weight: 205kg, Fuel tank: 17.5ltrs

HayaBusa PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

13.88 4cyl 1340cc

Nm

198 154

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA

NA

9/10

NA

seat height: 805mm, wheelbase: 1480mm, ground clearance: 120mm, weight: 266kg, Fuel tank: 21ltrs

Hayate Facing still competition in the segment, the hayate gets a few cosmetic updates.

EP

PRicE

ENGiNE

0.56*

1cyl 113cc

bhp

This all-new scooter from Hero has impressed us no end with its list of features. It includes a USB 3.0 mobile charging port, an externally mounted fuel filler lid and a boot light. This, along with the telescopic front suspension and Integrated Braking System offers a better ride and improved safety.

3 Nm

13.8 134

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA

NA

6/10

NA

Price `73,000, specs 124cc, 8bhp, 10.1Nm

intruder this is a mammoth motorcycle with an engine big enough to put most cars to shame. PRicE

ENGiNE

10.05* 2cyl 805cc 15.95* 2cyl 1780cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

52 68 NA 127 160 NA

NA NA

kpl

RATiNG

22 NA

5/10 6/10

seat height: 705mm, wheelbase: 1655-1710mm, ground clearance: 140mm, weight: 269-347kg, Fuel tank: 19ltrs

Honda’s Activa is the king of the scooter market in India. So how do you make an already good product better? Well, it’s simple – add a bigger engine. The 125 comes with all the goodness of a regular Activa, but with an added dash of performance, which is something we welcome with open arms.

VEsPA VXl 150

a decent little scooter that doesn’t offer anything path-breaking. needs to catch up with honda in of refinement.

Price `88,000, specs 150cc, 11.4bhp, 11.5Nm

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

0.47

1cyl 113cc

8.7

9

NA

NA

6/10

NA

seat height: 765mm, wheelbase: 1250mm, ground clearance: 160mm, weight: 98kg, Fuel tank: 5.2ltrs

sWisH want a peformance scooter with a bit of style? the swish is what the doctor ordered. Swish

PRicE

ENGiNE

0.52

1cyl 124cc

bhp

Nm

8.5 9.8

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA

NA

7/10

NA

seat height: 780mm, wheelbase: 1250mm, ground clearance: 160mm, weight: 110kg, Fuel tank: 6ltrs

suzuki attempts to wander in the Multistrada territory. is it a right step? PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

17.74

2cyl 1037cc

NA

NA

NA

NA

7/10

NA

seat height: 850mm, wheelbase: 1555mm, ground clearance: 165mm, weight: 228kg, Fuel tank: 20ltrs

124

January 2017 →

Performance is not a priority when shopping for a scooter, but we are glad Vespa thinks otherwise. The Vespa 150 looks exactly like the other scooters from the Vespa range, but packs in the kind of performance you don’t expect from a scooter. We only wish it didn’t cost nearly a lakh.

BonneViLLe the quintessential triumph. also the most inexpensive bike of the range. couldn’t get any better. PRicE

Street Twin T120 Thruxton R T100

TOPGEar.cOm

ENGiNE

6.9* 2cyl 900cc 8.7* 2cyl 1200cc 10.9* 2cyl 1200cc 7.8* 2cyl 900cc

bhp

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

54 80 NA 5.39 NA 105 NA 4.7 96 112 NA NA 54 80 NA NA

Nm

NA NA NA NA

7/10 8/10 9/10 8/10

seat height: 750mm, wheelbase: 1415mm, ground clearance: na, weight: 198kg, Fuel tank: 12ltrs

daytona 675cc three-pot, racing-derived genes and looks to make your heart melt. an expensive, but fine machine. Daytona 675 R

PRicE

ENGiNE

14.07

3cyl 675cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

126 70.2 NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

9/10

seat height: 830mm, wheelbase: 1375mm, ground clearance: na, weight: 189kg, Fuel tank: 17.4ltrs

roadsters these are the stripped-down daytonas, one with a 675cc motor, the other with a 1050. Proper brit muscle. PRicE

Speed Triple Street Triple

ENGiNE

13.26 3cyl 1050cc 9.25 3cyl 675cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

133 104

111 68

NA NA

NA NA

8/10 -

NA NA

roCKet iii roadster with the biggest engine for any production bike, the rocket iii is big enough to dwarf most other cruisers. PRicE

Rocket III Roadster

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

24.48 3cyl 2294cc 146 221

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA

NA

6/10

NA

seat height: 750mm, wheelbase: 1695mm, ground clearance: na, weight: 367kg, Fuel tank: 24ltrs

tHunderBird storM the poor man’s rocket iii. not inexpensive or inconspicous in any way.

Thunderbird Storm

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

16.12

2cyl 1699cc

97

156 NA

kph 0-100

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

6/10

seat height: 700mm, wheelbase: 1615mm, ground clearance: namm, weight: 339kg, Fuel tank: 22ltrs

tHunderBird Lt a thunderbird that’s built for the long haul. slightly detuned motor, but still sufficiently powerful. PRicE

Thunderbird LT

ENGiNE

18.68 2cyl 1699cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

93

151

NA

NA

6/10

NA

seat height: 700mm, wheelbase: 1665mm, ground clearance: namm, weight: 380kg, Fuel tank: 22ltrs

tiGer

5 yAmAHA FAsCINo Price `64,000, specs 113cc, 7bhp, 8.1Nm

V-stroM

1000 ABS

TopGear on Triumph: British bike maker not to be mistaken with the lingerie company of the same name.

4

Let’s

Let’s

triuMpH

seat height: 825mm, wheelbase: 1435mm, ground clearance: na, weight: 214kg, Fuel tank: 17ltrs

HoNDA ACTIVA 125

seat height: 795mm, wheelbase: 1305mm, ground clearance: 165mm, weight: 107kg, Fuel tank: 10ltrs

M800 M 1800 R

HERo mAEsTRo EDGE Price `50,000, specs 111cc, 8.3bhp, 8.3Nm

not the fastest production motorcycle anymore, but the 1300cc motor still packs a punch. GSX 1300 R

SCooterS

Want the retro styling of the Vespa but are not ready to shell out a lakh? This is what you need in your life: the Fascino. It is styled to look like a neo-retro scoot, but underneath, it’s an Alpha. The Fascino is quite practical, and at the same time, is pretty peppy, too. Maximum bling for your money.

triumph’s go-anywhere soldier, the tiger is all the touring motorcycle you’d ever want. also available with a bigger engine. Tiger 800 XRx Tiger 800 XCA Tiger Explorer

PRicE

ENGiNE

13.44 NA 21.58

3cyl 799cc 3cyl 799cc 3cyl 1215cc

bhp

Nm

94 78 94 78 135 121

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA NA NA

NA NA NA

9/10 9/10 8/10

NA NA NA

seat height: 840-860mm, wheelbase: 1535mm, ground clearance: namm, weight: 215kg, Fuel tank: 19-20ltrs

tVs TopGear on TVS: They’ve had their ups and downs but seem sorted out now. Strong presence in southern India, rest of India needs some attention.

into its second generation now with a bigger engine and more ‘race effects’. still a great looker. RTR180 ABS RTR200 V4 ABS

PRicE

ENGiNE

1.01 1.17*

1cyl 178cc 1cyl 198cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

17.1 15.5 119 20.7 18.1 NA

NA 12

kpl

RATiNG

38 NA

7/10 8/10

seat height: 790mm, wheelbase: 1300-1353mm, ground clearance: 180mm, weight: 137-148kg, Fuel tank: 12ltrs

jupiter

is the FZ1 too old for you, now? head straight to the Mt section for the latest yamaha super-naked

Vespa

MT-09

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

0.62

1cyl 109cc

7.8

8

NA

NA

8/10

NA

seat height: 765mm, wheelbase: 1275mm, ground clearance: 150mm, weight: nakg, Fuel tank: 5ltrs

a straight forward commuter bike. what you see is what you get. ENGiNE

1cyl 124.5cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

0.8 10.8 95

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

4/10

seat height: namm, wheelbase: 1265mm, ground clearance: 165mm, weight: 116kg, Fuel tank: 12ltrs

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

0.52 0.59

1cyl 87cc 1cyl 109.7cc

5 7.9

5.8 8.7

NA NA

NA NA

4/10 6/10

NA NA

star City+ ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

0.47*

1cyl 110cc

8.4

8.7

NA

NA

4/10

NA

seat height: namm, wheelbase: 1260mm, ground clearance: 172mm, weight: 109kg, Fuel tank: 12ltrs

ViCtor bhp

Nm

9.6 9.4

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA

NA

7/10

NA

WeGo with the wego, tvs has set its eyes on honda’s share of the gearless twowheeler market.

uM

bhp

Nm

11.2 9.6

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA

NA

NA

NA

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

0.63

1cyl 110cc

8

8

NA

NA

7/10

NA

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

0.68

1cyl 113cc

7.1

NA

NA

NA

7/10

NA

a muscle-y cruiser. we’ll wait till we ride it to tell you more about it. ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

1.49 1.59 1.69

1cyl 280cc 1cyl 280cc 1cyl 280cc

25 25 25

22 22 22

NA NA NA

NA NA NA

5/10 5/10 5/10

NA NA NA

seat height: na, wheelbase: 1545mm, ground clearance: 150mm, weight: 172kg, Fuel tank: 18ltrs

-

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

0.56 0.71

1cyl 113cc 1cyl 113cc

7 7

8.1 8.1

NA NA

NA NA

7/10 7/10

PRicE

ENGiNE

0.73

1cyl 153cc

NA NA

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

12.1 12.8 NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

4/10

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

0.64

1cyl 113cc

7

8.1

NA

NA

7/10

NA

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

0.88*

1cyl 149cc

13

13

NA

NA

6/10

NA

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

8 7.5

10 8.5

NA NA

NA NA

-

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

NA

6/10

NA NA

V-MaX ENGiNE

bhp

33.09 4cyl 1679cc

197 166.8 NA

NA

seat height: 775mm, wheelbase: 1700mm, ground clearance: 140mm, weight: 310kg, Fuel tank: 15ltrs

yZF-r1 ENGiNE

22.34* 4cyl 998cc 29.43* 4cyl 998cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

197 112.4 00 197 112.4 NA

00 NA

kpl

RATiNG

00 NA

-

seat height: 855-860mm, wheelbase: 1405mm, ground clearance: 130mm, weight: 199kg, Fuel tank: 17ltrs

yZF-r15 2.0 same old r15 tweaked for better performance. though no power upgrade will put off a few people

FZ Fi V2.0

R15

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

kpl

RATiNG

1.27

1cyl 150cc

16.8

15

140

40

7/10

NA

seat height: 800mm, wheelbase: 1345mm, ground clearance: 160mm, weight: 136kg, Fuel tank: 12ltrs

PRicE

ENGiNE

bhp

Nm

0.96

1cyl 149cc

13

12.8 NA

kph 0-100

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

7/10

yZF-r3 the latest r-series product is hugely impressive. nice to fling around corners, even better for long-distance riding.

seat height: 790mm, wheelbase: 1330mm, ground clearance: 160mm, weight: 132kg, Fuel tank: 12ltrs

YZF-R3

street fighter looks and performance to go with it. will give you all the thrills of a litre class bike. bhp

bhp

1cyl 125cc 1cyl 110cc

PRicE

bhp

ENGiNE

ENGiNE

0.68 0.46*

seat height: 785-805mm, wheelbase: 1265mm, ground clearance: 180mm, weight: 113kg, Fuel tank: 7.6ltrs

R1 R1M

ENGiNE

PRicE

PRicE

want to be like rossi? well, you can start with at least looking like him on a yamaha.

PRicE

13.65

yamaha’s having another crack at the 125cc commuter bike segment with the oddly-named saluto

PRicE

Purely a commuter. surprisingly a good handler and has a refined engine. now with lesser power, and lesser weight.

FZ 1

RATiNG

NA

saLuto

V-Max

FZ 1

PRicE

kpl

be ready for some seriously fast acceleration, and hope no one is crossing while you are at it.

FaZer

reneGade

NA

cheaper alternative to FZ16, cuts down on essentials like disc brakes and beam switch

Disc RX

styled to fight the vespa, priced to snatch a piece of the activa’s pie. a styleconscious alpha, in essence.

FZ-S

kph 0-100

seat height: 800mm, wheelbase: 1320mm, ground clearance: 165mm, weight: 134kg, Fuel tank: 14ltrs

boldest of the 150cc lot with tyres to chew and spit out the competition. Less powerful now, but also lighter.

TopGear on UM: We don’t know much about them yet, but UM have brought along some pretty interesting looking options.

Nm

113 87.5 NA

aimed at ladies, but not surprisingly, it endears itself to the opposite sex too. Fun to ride, looks good and is a yamaha

SZ-RR

seat height: 790mm, wheelbase: 1335mm, ground clearance: 160mm, weight: 135kg, Fuel tank: 13.2ltrs

PRicE

bhp

sZ

FasCino

Fazer

seat height: namm, wheelbase: 1275mm, ground clearance: 150mm, weight: nakg, Fuel tank: 5ltrs

Sport S Commando Classic

ENGiNE

1cyl 125cc

3cyl 847cc

seat height: na, wheelbase: 1270mm, ground clearance: 128mm, weight: 103kg, Fuel tank: 5ltrs

seat height: 775mm, wheelbase: 1270mm, ground clearance: 128mm, weight: 103kg, Fuel tank: 5.2ltrs

seat height: na, wheelbase: 1260mm, ground clearance: 175mm, weight: 113kg, Fuel tank: 8ltrs

Wego

PRicE

12.05*

ENGiNE

10.2

ray

Ray Ray ZR

yamaha’s attempt to take on the scooter segment dominated by honda’s activa

Fascino

an old nameplate returns. Looks good for a commuter, and also packs in some useful equipment ENGiNE

6/10 7/10

seat height: 775mm, wheelbase: 1270mm, ground clearance: 128mm, weight: 104kg, Fuel tank: 5.2ltrs

PRicE

1cyl 110cc

NA NA

aLpHa

efficient, comfortable and refined. Looks nice, too. a good first buy.

0.54

NA NA

RATiNG

seat height: na, wheelbase: na, ground clearance: na, weight: na, Fuel tank: 5ltrs

Disc

PRicE

10 10.6 NA 11.4 11.5 NA

kpl

946 eMporio arMani

seat height: 760mm, wheelbase: 1230-1250mm, ground clearance: 135mm, weight: 95-98kg, Fuel tank: 5ltrs

Victor

kph 0-100

TopGear on Yamaha: Have made a name out of manufacturing fast bikes. Great products, but dealer network not good enough to back them up.

it’s tiny, petite and peppy. convenient for city errands. but buy a bike for regular commuting. Perfect as your first two-wheeler.

Electric Start

1cyl 125cc 1cyl 150cc

Nm

yaMaHa

sCooty

Pep Plus Zest 110

0.84* 1.06

bhp

seat height: na, wheelbase: na, ground clearance: na, weight: na, Fuel tank: 5ltrs

-0.63

ENGiNE

it is a work of art, suitably modern and practical, and quite distinct: in its presence and with the price.

pHoeniX PRicE

PRicE

PRicE

seat height: 815mm, wheelbase: 1440mm, ground clearance: 135mm, weight: 191kg, Fuel tank: 14ltrs

it looks , it feels , is zippy and now, also available in 150 flavour. what’s not to like? SXL 125 SXL 150

tvs’s latest offering to take on the honda activa, just that it looks too similar to its rival.

Mt-09

TopGear on Vespa: If there ever was a company that married history and tradition with a modern outlook, Vespa is it.

PRicE

ENGiNE

3.85

2cyl 321cc

bhp

Nm

kph 0-100

41 29.6 NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

8/10

seat height:mm, wheelbase: 1380mm, ground clearance:mm, weight: 169kg, Fuel tank: 14ltrs Nm

kph 0-100

4cyl 998cc 147.9 106 NA

NA

kpl

RATiNG

NA

8/10

seat height: 815mm, wheelbase: 1460mm, ground clearance: 160mm, weight: 132kg, Fuel tank: 12ltrs

DATA IN NumBERs: power To weighT → yzF-R3 245bhp per tonne TOPGEar.cOm

→

January 2017

125

TriuMPH-yAMAHA

Vespa

apaCHe

TopGear

The UNCUT VeRSION The biTs ThaT don’T make iT To The final cuT (and The biTs some of us don’T wanT To see making iT To The final cuT)

01

02

03

04 01 Tools of the trade: aditya may need fancy cameras for his photos but Devesh does fine with his ‘mind’s eye’ 02 Choice offerings: Would you care for pomegranate juice, pineapple juice or the new BmW 5-series? 03 Season’s greetings: It’s that time of year. We get festive in the office too 04 Learning to listen: We’re really thorough with our comparisons. We even listen to the cars’ side of the story 05 Shoot for the stars: The closer hole is probably the safer hole. But then, Girish has always been a risk taker 06 Field trip: no matter how much fun he has pointing out errors to writers, Amaan is happiest in the rider’s saddle

12 6

January 2017 →

TOPGEar.cOm

06

05