Our long-term Elantra has been with us for a fair bit. Although initially, I spent a good amount of time behind the wheel, I haven’t driven it at all in the last six months. This is probably why it is making such a strong second impression now. The light but feelsome steering, the responsive petrol engine, the simply brilliant touchscreen with its shortcut buttons, the amazing refinement – the list is just endless. The car feels just so effortless; it’s an absolute joy to drive in and around the city.
Then comes the rains. And, as many of you must know, when it rains in Mumbai, it rains! For a couple of days, it seems almost apocalyptic: lashing winds, hard rain, fallen trees, cars wading through pools of water, wheels partly submerged. Some low-lying roads near the office often flood. So to avoid them, I take the long way to and from work. There’s no way I’m taking this low-slung ‘submarine’ of a car into the ‘deep’. I can well imagine myself sitting there in the ‘conning tower’, surrounded by water, the low bonnet almost submerged. And that big 2.0-litre engine; it will just suck water in through the narrow straw-like inlet.
Luckily, taking the long way home isn’t so bad. Traffic is often light, and though there is a bit of water on the roads, the Elantra has a nice clean run for a couple of days. Mumbai’s elevated roads, for once without too much traffic, are just a joy. The sure-footedness in the wet is reassuring. This Hyundai feels genuinely well balanced in corners and what impresses even more is that it doesn’t fall apart when I drive it a bit quicker. And I simply love the fact that it is a sedan and not an SUV. The weight is placed low down, it feels happy and not nervous at speed, and the only rock and roll I have to contend with comes from the speakers. Guess it’s sedans that are the niche now, not SUVs.
I love the low-slung lines; I still give the Elantra a good hard stare every time I walk through the parking lot. And, incredibly, the lines and the details just seem to be getting better and better. What’s surprised me most about the car, however, is the build. Hyundai’s cars have always had a ‘tougher than Japanese’ build, and here I’m happy to state, the Elantra almost feels European. Even 18,232km on, there’s not a rattle or a squeak from inside the cabin, and that’s amazing.
Still, there’s a lot I don’t like about this car. My pet peeve is the overreactive ‘Sport’ mode; throttle responses are so over the top, it almost feels like the car has a mind of its own. I’ve stopped using the cooled seats, they gave me a stiff back, the gearbox shifts inconsistently in ‘Eco’ (the one best suited to everyday driving), and now, the boot pops open every time I walk past it with the key in my pocket. Silly car. All that aside, this has to be one of Hyundai’s best cars on sale. And to top that, I think it’s much, much cooler than any of the Korean carmaker’s SUVs.
If you’re in the market for an entry-level premium SUV, there’s an all-new option now in the form of the XC40. Volvo has come out all guns blazing with this stylish, feature-rich SUV, and what makes it even more appealing is its price range of Rs 39.90-43.90 lakh, that’s a bit cheaper than the fun-to-drive BMW X1. Will buyers love the Volvo for its freshness or will the BMW’s practicality make it our pick in the segment? Let’s find out.
Number Game
Within a few weeks since its launch, Volvo introduced two more variants of the XC40, taking the total count to three. The model tested here is the R-Design variant priced at Rs 42.90 lakh, which sits between the Momentum (Rs 39.90 lakh) and Inscription (Rs 43.90 lakh) trims. This is the first car to be based on the all-new CMA (Common Modular Architecture) platform that’s co-developed and shared with parent company Geely Auto. It is wider and taller than the BMW by 42mm and 40mm, respectively, and its wheelbase is longer by 32mm. The XC40 looks like a proper SUV thanks to its upright stance and flat bonnet. The Thor’s Hammer LED DRLs, signature front grille and attractive 18-inch wheels make it a head-turner. Moving away from the front, the sharply kinked upward sloping window line, the dual-tone roof and the distinct tail-lamps only add to the XC40’s appeal.
BMW offers the X1 in three variants, with prices ranging between Rs 34.50 lakh (Expedition) and Rs 44.50 lakh (M Sport, variant tested here). It is based on the UKL2 platform that’s shared with the Minis, and the X1 is actually longer than the XC40 by 14mm. In comparison to the Volvo, the BMW is low-slung and has a more crossover-like stance, with its low-profile tyres and the M body kit conveying its racier intentions.
Dimensions
Volvo XC40 R-Design
BMW X1 M Sport
Length
4425mm
4439mm
Width
1863mm
1821mm
Height
1652mm
1612mm
Wheelbase
2702mm
2670mm
Fuel tank
54 litres
61 litres
Tyre size
235/55 R18
225/50 R18
Heart of the Matter
Both the SUVs are powered by 2.0-litre diesel engines making 190hp at 4,000rpm and 400Nm of torque between 1,750-2,500rpm, and are mated to eight-speed automatic gearboxes transmitting power to all four wheels. However, the similarities end here.
The XC40’s diesel is extremely responsive to the slightest flex of your foot and power flows in smoothly and effortlessly. There’s ample torque at lower revs, but in the mid-range it’s nice and strong and the motor spins freely to a modest 4,200rpm. The engine is pretty refined at low and cruising speeds, but the diesel rattle is prominent inside the cabin at higher revs. The automatic gearbox is smooth and shifts are seamless, but the short, stubby gear lever has an ultra-short throw and you need to look at the indicator to see if you’ve shifted to the correct gear position.
Powertrain and performance
Volvo XC40 R-Design
BMW X1 M Sport
Engine
1969cc, 4 cyls, diesel
1995cc, 4 cyls, diesel
Power
190hp at 4000rpm
190hp at 4000rpm
Torque
400Nm at 1750-2500rpm
400Nm at 1750-2500rpm
Transmission
8-speed automatic
8-speed automatic
0-20kph
0.82s
0.77s
0-40kph
2.37s
2.02s
0-60kph
4.09s
3.48s
0-80kph
6.60s
5.42s
0-100kph
9.54s
8.07s
0-120kph
13.11s
11.67s
20-80kph (in kickdown)
6.05s
5.16s
10-100kph (in kickdown)
7.12s
6.67s
The BMW X1’s response, on the other hand, feels a bit dull initially. Get past the initial power delay, however, and the engine has a strong performance and there’s a spike in power which gives the X1 a nice spring in its step. Under normal driving conditions though, turbo lag is noticeable, and what makes matters worse is that the gearbox takes a while to downshift when you suddenly put your foot down, and this can be quite frustrating. Shift to Sport mode and it rewards the driver with athletic performance and a far more responsive gearbox. It transforms the car so well that it is the faster one here when it comes to performance. Thanks to its launch control system, it takes just 8.07sec to reach 100kph from a standstill, which is 1.47sec quicker than the Volvo. Even within the gears, the X1 is quicker from 20-80kph and 40-100kph.
That fine balance
Volvo has tuned the XC’s suspension really well. There is a hint of firmness to the ride, but the big 235/55 R18 tyres just smother bad roads, keeping the car composed at all times. The four-wheel-drive system offers confidence-inspiring grip around corners, and while there is some roll due to its tall stance, the XC is still reasonably fun when driven hard. Even the steering is great; it is light and consistent, yet offers adequate feel and accuracy at speeds.
The X1 is great fun around corners and is sharp in the way it changes directions. Grip levels are further enhanced by the four-wheel-drive system, which ensures tidy and predictable handling. Adding to the experience is its steering that, although a bit heavy, is bristling with feel and feedback. In addition, body roll is negligible, the driving position is low-slung, and the large paddleshifters only add to the X1’s sportier character. However, because of its lower profile 225/50 R18 tyres and stiffer suspension, the ride is firm, and it tends to crash over bumps. It isn’t uncomfortable per se, but the X1’s ride feels quite busy.
Inner Peace
Right from when you open the door, the XC40’s cabin has a ‘wow’ effect. The interiors look watered down in terms of quality when compared to more expensive Volvo SUVs, but the quality of materials used is great. And though there aren’t any soft-touch plastics on the dash, several bits, like the steering, vertical touchscreen and virtual instrument cluster, are carried over from more expensive Volvos, making the cabin very appealing. The subtle use of chrome and the silver trim on the dashboard complement the design well. The orange, lava-coloured carpets and door pads might not be to everyone’s taste but it’s an option that can be deleted. The seats of the XC40 are part leather and part Alcantara, and for sheer comfort, these aren’t as nice or supportive as the BMW’s. Another complaint is that the rear doors don’t open wide enough and the seat itself is small. Passengers here are seated a bit low with their knees up, and the backrest is upright. Like in the front, the rear occupants get a seat-heating option, and what’s nice is that there are many hidden storage areas and thoughtfully designed spaces across the cabin.
The X1’s interiors impress with its chocolate-brown and black theme. There’s generous use
of soft-touch materials, double stitching on the doors and dashboard, and lovely lacquered wooden trim, all of which feel very premium. The three-spoke ‘M’ steering with it oversized paddleshifters looks sporty and is superb to hold. Even the front seats are extremely supportive, with plenty of adjustments, including adjustable side bolstering. Cushioning, though, is a bit firm. The cabin is spacious, with a good amount of room at the back as well. The back seat is comfortable and offers adequate support, and is wider, so a third passenger can be accommodated more comfortably. In addition, the backrest can be split in a 40:20:40 ratio and can also be individually reclined. Furthermore, the seats can be slid to accommodate more cargo as well. So, it is the BMW’s cabin that’s the more practical of the two, with several storage areas and a larger 505-litre boot.
Equipment list and price
Volvo XC40 R-Design
BMW X1 M Sport
Price (ex-showroom, India)
Rs 42.90 lakh
Rs 44.50 lakh
Panoramic sunroof
Yes
Yes
Paddleshifters
Yes
Yes
Android Auto / Apple CarPlay
Yes
NA
Heated seats
Yes
NA
LED headlamps
Yes
Yes
Cruise control
Adaptive
Yes
Electric tailgate
Yes
NA
Lane departure warning
Yes
NA
Wireless phone charging
Yes
NA
Icing on the cake
When it comes to equipment, it’s the XC40 that’s the better equipped of the two. It gets radar-based safety kit like adaptive cruise control, pilot assist, collision mitigation system, lane-keeping assist, as well as premium features like a virtual instrument cluster, electric tailgate, semi-automatic parking, 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment, Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, wireless phone charging, keyless entry and heated seats.
Both these SUVs are fitted with a reversing camera, dual-zone climate control, paddleshifters, driving modes, auto LED headlights and wipers, panoramic sunroof and 18-inch wheels. Unique to the X1 are a head-up display and reclining/adjustable rear seats.
X-factor
The BMW X1 is the sportier of the two; it has the nicer steering, sharper handling, and a car-like driving position. Even in terms of practicality, it scores better with more space, comfier seats and a larger boot. Taking practicality a step further, BMW is giving owners the option of prepaid maintenance packages for up to 10 years, and a more comprehensive extended warranty package, for added peace of mind. Yes, its ride is a bit firm and it looks more crossover-like than SUV, but what really sways the game away is the price, which is higher than the better-packaged Volvo XC40.
But that’s not the only reason why the Volvo XC40 wins this comparison. It is a stylish, youthful SUV that comes as a breath of fresh air in the segment. Looks aside, it has the more appealing, high-quality interior, it is smooth to drive and then there’s its equipment list, which includes radar-based tech that really takes its value quotient up several notches. Rear-seat comfort could have been a bit better but that isn’t really a deal breaker. What could be a let-down, however, is the brand’s scanty support network. But if you have a Volvo touchpoint near you, then this is the car you should vote for.
Also see:
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New Russian luxury car brand Aurus has launched its first models, the Senat and Senat Limousine, at the Moscow International Auto Show.
The limo, described as offering ‘uncompromising level of ballistic and explosive protection’, will serve as Russia’s new state vehicle and was seen in this role at the fourth inauguration ceremony of Russian president Vladimir Putin earlier this year.
The new brand, which is run by Russia’s Central Scientific Research Automobile and Automotive Engine Institute, known as NAMI, was developed at the behest of Putin, who felt it was important that Russia made its own presidential vehicles.
The Senat Limousine uses a 4.4-litre V8 engine (jointly developed by NAMI and Porsche) aided by a hybrid electric motor to offer 598hp and can clock 0-100 kph in less than six seconds. The engine is mated to a nine-speed gearbox. Other engine options for the non-armoured Senat will include a 6.6-litre V12 with a staggering 859hp output!
The Rolls-Royce-rivalling (in case you couldn’t already tell) Senat is 5630mm long, with a 3300mm wheelbase, rising to 6630mm and 4300mm respectively on the limo variant. Both cars will be built on a unified modular platform. The Senat will feature all-wheel drive and run on independent multi-link rear suspension with gas-filled shock absorbers.
The interior has been focused on rear passengers, with rear seats that recline to 45 degrees and are equipped with custom designer pillows. There is also a built-in refrigerator with Aurus-branded crystal glasses and fold-out tables with leather trim.
Along with the two Senat models, Aurus is also planning to develop a minivan called Arsenal and an SUV named Komendant. The model names are inspired by the Kremlin’s towers. Aurus models will go on sale in Russia in early 2019 and be offered in international markets as well.
While Aurus is originally planning to produce 150 vehicles a year in 2019 and 2020, a new production facility will expand capacity to 5,000 by 2021, with the option to further increase volume to 10,000 vehicles if there is demand.
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A report from The Wall Street Journal claims that Volkswagen was one of the companies standing in line as a potential investor making a bid to take Tesla private, alongside private equity firm Silver Lake and a Saudi sovereign wealth fund. Tesla CEO Elon Musk confirmed on Friday that the Silicon Valley Company will remain a publicly traded company after the deal fell through.
It has not yet been made clear exactly why Musk changed his mind about taking Tesla private; but the WSJ report suggests that the CEO balked at the proposal of relinquishing further control of his company to secure the investment.
The investment necessary to take Tesla private was estimated at around $30 billion. Volkswagen, was looking to make a substantial commitment for the same. The German car giant wouldn’t be the first carmaker to attempt to hold a stake in Tesla. Toyota and Daimler both invested in the EV start-up’s early years.
Meanwhile, Elon Musk may be facing an investigation at the hands of the Securities and Exchange Commission after he tweeted about taking Tesla private at $420 (around Rs 29,000) per share and claiming that the funding to do so was “secure”. At that point, no board statement or regulatory filings had been made to confirm this.
The attempted move by VW to invest in a major EV player such as Tesla could be seen as a quick way to gain a strong foothold in the EV market – a desire expressed by the automaker for VW's US operations and overall long-term strategy.
Toyota has updated the Innova Crysta, Innova Crysta Touring Sport and Fortuner's feature list for the Indian market.All variants of the Toyota Innova Crysta and Crysta Touring Sport now get following features:
Emergency Brake Signal
Rear Fog Lamps
Front LED Fog Lamps
Anti-Theft Alarm with Glass Break and Ultrasonic Sensor
Additionally, Toyota Innova Crysta GX now gets:
Touchscreen infotainment system
Steering-mounted audio controls
Power-folding wing mirrors with puddle lamps
Speed- and impact-sensitive door lock/unlock feature
The updated Toyota Fortuner now comes with:
Passenger side powered seat
Anti-theft alarm with glass break and ultrasonic sensor
Emergency brake signal
Rear Fog lamps
Electrochromatic Inside Rear-View Mirror (IRVM)
Toyota has also hiked prices for the Toyota Innova Crysta, Innova Touring Sport and the Fortuner, thanks to the additionalfeatures and the recent IRDA announcement stating that starting September 1, 2018, all new two-wheeler and passenger-vehicle sales will need to have a mandatory five-year third-party insurance and a three-year third-party plan.
The 2018 Toyota Innova Crysta now starts at Rs 14.65 lakh (Rs 14.35 lakh earlier) for the 2.7-litre petrol variant, going upto Rs 22.06 lakh (Rs 21.57 lakh earlier) for the top-spec 2.8-litre ZX diesel automatic variant.
The 2018 Innova Touring sport is now priced from Rs 18.59 lakh (Rs 18.15 lakh, earlier) for the 2.7-litre petrol VX variant going upto Rs 23.06 lakh (Rs 22.70 lakh, earlier) for the top spec 2.8-litre ZX automatic variant.
The 2018 Toyota Fortuner now costs Rs 27.27 lakh (Rs 26.69 lakh earlier) for the 2.7-litre petrol variant going upto Rs 32.97lakh (Rs 32.48 lakh earlier) for the 2.8-litre diesel 4WD automatic variant.
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After seeing the variant listed on Skoda's website, it seems that the automaker is readying the launch of the Superb Sportline trim in India. Essentially a sportier-looking version of the company flagship sedan, the Skoda Superb Sportline comes with sharper styling – a black exterior treatment, and a bright red paintjob.
As seen on the Skoda Octavia vRS, the Sportline comes with a blacked-out exterior package, replacing all of its chrome elements and adding to its sporty appeal. The grille is finished in gloss-black finish and so are the headlamp inserts. The car also gets mirror caps, side skirts and a boot-lid spoiler – all in the same gloss-black finish. Additionally, a set of 19-inch, gloss-black finish alloy wheels will also be on offer.
Inside the cabin, the Superb Sportline gets an all-black treatment with contrasting red stitching. The car is fitted with new sporty seats with Alcantara inserts, aluminium pedals, and some carbon-fibre trim on the dash to complete the package.
Mechanically, the Indian Superb Sportline is expected to continue running the current model’s engine and transmission. There is a 1.8-litre, TSI petrol engine making 178hp and 320Nm of torque, and a 2.0-litre TDI diesel motor that produces 175hp and 350Nm of peak torque. The petrol model gets 6-speed manual and a 7-speed DSG automatic transmission options; meanwhile, the diesel variant gets a 6-speed DSG unit as standard.
Skoda has not made the car available for the customers to buy yet. However, we expect the Superb Sportline to be launched in this festive season. Skoda recently launched the Superb Corporate Edition in India, priced at Rs 23.49 lakh (Ex-showroom).
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A Coimbatore-based dealer for Tata Motors has built a custom, special edition of the Tata Nexon compact SUV. Thisunique Nexon getsa Rose Gold paint scheme on the outside, and an updated interior colour theme to complement its modified exterior.
There are quite a few changes on the outside that differentiate this Nexon from the standard models. At the front, it gets a blacked-out grille and air dam, whileonthe sides, it gets a darker shade of rose gold on the window line.The roof rails get a blacked-out finish as well. The rose goldtheme has alsobeen appliedto smaller details, like the badges that have been painted in the custom shade. To round it off, the alloy wheels have also been finished in black.
On the inside, this Nexon gets rose gold touches just like the exterior. The dual-tone interior has a tasteful dark-grey and rose gold colour scheme. It also features upmarket seat covers thatgive an, overall, premium look to the car’s cabin.
The custom modifications have been carried out on a standard Nexon at the dealership level. We spoke to the SRT Motors dealership who told us that thiscustomisation can be carried outby them on any Tata Nexon variant at an additional cost of around Rs 2 lakh.
The Nexon compact SUV is available with Tata’s 1.2-litre, three-cylinder, turbo-petrol engine making 110hp and 170Nm of torque, and a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder, turbo-diesel motor that produces 110hp and 260Nm of peak torque. Both engines have two transmission options – a six-speed manual and a six-speed AMT.
The Tata Nexon compact SUVrivals the Ford EcoSport and the Maruti Vitara Brezza and will soon see competition from Hyundai's upcoming Carlino based SUV, likely to be called Leonis.
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