British luxury car brand Aston Martin has revived its legendary Vanquish nameplate, and introduced the model in India with an ex-showroom price of INR 88.5 million (excluding options). The flagship model crowned Aston Martin’s next-generation sports car lineup is limited to just under 1,000 units annually.

At the heart of the Vanquish lies a new 5.2-litre Twin-Turbo V12 engine, delivering 835PS and 1,000Nm of torque – making it the most powerful V12 in Aston Martin’s core sports car range to date. With a specific power output of 160PS per litre, this engine propels the Vanquish to a top speed of 214mph (344kmph), the highest ever for an Aston Martin series production car. It is enhanced with a strengthened cylinder block, redesigned cylinder heads and high-speed turbochargers, the powertrain achieves unprecedented performance while meeting global emissions standards. A novel Boost Reserve function further sharpens throttle response, storing turbo boost for instant power delivery during overtaking or dynamic driving.

The Vanquish’s chassis is equally impressive, built on a bonded aluminium structure with a 75 percent increase in lateral stiffness over its predecessor, the DBS 770 Ultimate. Featuring Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers and an electronic rear limited-slip differential (e-diff), it offers a seamless blend of grand tourer comfort and supercar agility. The e-diff, integrated with an advanced Electronic Stability Control system, transitions from open to fully locked in just 135 milliseconds, enhancing traction and cornering precision. Paired with a recalibrated ZF 8-speed automatic gearbox and a Carbon Ceramic Brake system, the Vanquish delivers exceptional control, stopping power, and a dynamic bandwidth that adapts to any driving mood.

Visually, the Vanquish exudes contemporary elegance with its extended wheelbase, sculpted carbon fibre bodywork and a rakish teardrop profile. Drawing inspiration from Aston Martin’s motorsport heritage, including Formula 1 and the iconic ‘Project Cars’ of the 1960s, it features F1-inspired bonnet louvres and a Kamm Tail for aerodynamic efficiency. A panoramic glass roof, a first for an Aston Martin V12, floods the cabin with light, while Matrix LED headlights and a bold grille amplify its road presence. The interior, designed for two, combines luxury with driver focus, boasting a 10.25-inch digital dashboard, a pure black touchscreen infotainment system and tactile metal controls. A Bowers & Wilkins 15-speaker audio system comes standard, ensuring an immersive experience.

Lawrence Stroll, Executive Chairman, Aston Martin, said, “With the introduction of Vanquish we have crowned Aston Martin’s next- generation sports car portfolio. A true halo model in every respect, Vanquish makes an emphatic statement. One that further delivers on our mission to create the most potent, most beautiful and most exciting cars in the ultra-luxury sports car market. As such Vanquish is the truest of Aston Martins. Immaculately designed and impeccably engineered it sets extraordinary new standards of performance, style and luxury for a new generation of connoisseurs”.

Marek Reichman, Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer, Aston Martin, said, “Vanquish is an iconic halo model for our sports car portfolio and we’re always designing for beyond the expected, rational and thoughtful. We captured the immensity of its performance and the imperiousness of its intended purpose while tempering the drama of Vanquish with a rare and unmistakable sense of elegance. Our team demonstrated bravery and curiosity in their quest to deliver unexpected design ideas throughout. The teardrop exterior features an all-new surface language and amplified front-engine proportions, and the interior environment combines the focus of a true driver’s car with elevated luxury and state-of-the-art technology. There is great passion in creating pure excitement and this new Vanquish is a culmination of fearless creativity and human ingenuity. We have combined next level, ultra-luxury performance with British-cool sports car styling to deliver a crowning Aston Martin V12 flagship for the ages.”

Simon Newton, Director of Vehicle Performance, Aston Martin, said, “Vanquish brings another dimension to the revitalised Aston Martin range. The new V12 engine is a larger-than-life character, with immense torque from just above idle combined with a truly ferocious top-end. It really is an extraordinary engine. This sense of boundless propulsion had to be matched by an equal level of control and finesse; something we have achieved by further exploring the tremendous scope of the new Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers, e-diff and latest generation electronics. We’ve also worked closely with Pirelli, developing a bespoke tyre tailored specifically to Vanquish. The resulting blend of dynamic precision, epic performance and luxurious refinement is uniquely special, with a bandwidth that sets a new standard for the marques halo model and is worthy of the Vanquish name”.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

French automaker Renault has unveiled the Filante, a premium crossover designed to lead the brand's 2027 International Game Plan. Developed on the CMA platform, the vehicle marks Renault's return to the premium E-segment. The model will launch in South Korea in March 2026, followed by releases in South America and the Gulf states by early 2027.

The Filante name draws on Renault's history, referencing the Étoile Filante speed record prototype of 1956 and the 2025 electric concept car. The vehicle is manufactured at the Busan plant in South Korea, a facility central to Renault’s strategy for the Asian and Middle Eastern markets.

The exterior features an avant-garde style with a specific light signature and an aerodynamic stern. Inside, the cabin includes lounge seating, customisable lighting, and a sound system designed for audiophiles. The digital environment is supported by the My Renault app, which allows for remote vehicle control and transparent software updates.

The Filante introduces a suite of driving aids to the Renault range, including Emergency Steering Assist, a Smart Rearview Mirror and Child Presence Detection. These systems are integrated into a connected cockpit designed to provide a personalised experience for the driver and passengers.

The vehicle debuts an upgraded full hybrid E-Tech 250 ps powertrain. This system utilises a dual electric drive and a Multimode Auto gearbox to balance power with efficiency. The architecture, developed through the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance, is optimised for hybrid performance to meet the targets of the 2027 International Game Plan, which aims for one in every three Renault sales outside Europe to be electrified.

Nicolas Paris, CEO, Renault Korea, said, “Renault Filante represents the best of what Renault group and Renault Korea can achieve together. Combining Renault's global DNA in design and innovation with the technical excellence of Renault Korea, it is backed by the advanced capabilities of the Korean automotive industry.”

Fabrice Cambolive, Chief Growth Officer Renault Groupe, and CEO Renault Brand, added, "We are opening a new chapter in the Renault International Game Plan 2027, here in Korea which plays a central role in our global ambitions. After the launch of Grand Koleos in October 2024, we are now about to unveil another flagship for Korea: Filante, the fifth new-generation vehicle of our international plan, designed for markets beyond Europe. Today is an important milestone, because it proves one thing very clearly: we are sticking to our roadmap and delivering on our promises. Filante perfectly illustrates our approach, combining Renault's French DNA - emotional design, humanised technology and best in class electrified technology - with Korean excellence to meet local customer expectations."

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Kia India, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Avis Leasing to expand its Kia Lease Program.

The agreement represents Kia’s third partnership in the sector, following previous arrangements with Orix India and Ayvens India. The collaboration is intended to increase brand accessibility by offering mobility options that bypass traditional vehicle ownership.

The Kia Lease program targets customers with long-term requirements by providing tenures between 36 and 60 months with various mileage limits. The service allows users to access vehicles without an initial down payment. The monthly lease fee covers maintenance, insurance renewals and resale management, intended to provide a simplified experience for the user.

Under the terms of the agreement, customers have the option to return the vehicle or upgrade to a different Kia model at the conclusion of the contract. The initiative, which launched in 2024, aligns with shifting consumer preferences towards usage-based models rather than asset ownership. By integrating with established leasing firms, Kia aims to create a scalable platform that generates demand outside of standard retail sales.

Atul Sood, Senior Vice President - Sales & Marketing, Kia India, said, “At Kia India, we recognise the Leasing and Subscription space emerging as an important growth driver in the Indian auto industry. Our partnership with Avis Leasing reflects our efforts towards strengthening Kia Lease as a scalable platform that addresses evolving customer needs while creating incremental demand beyond traditional ownership. Through such collaborations, we aim to build a strong, sustainable mobility business aligned with our long-term growth strategy in India.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Czech automaker Skoda Auto has announced that its upcoming all-electric seven-seater flagship model will be named the Peaq.

The vehicle represents the series production version of the Vision 7S concept first introduced in 2022. The name is intended to signify the model’s position at the summit of the Czech manufacturer's vehicle portfolio.

The Peaq incorporates the brand’s Modern Solid design language, which focuses on sustainability and functional aesthetics. Engineered for families and travel, the interior features seven seats and focuses on space and practicality. The model integrates the company's ‘Simply Clever’ solutions and marks an expansion of the Skoda electric vehicle range.

The development of the Peaq follows the brand's shift toward a refined product identity. By bringing the Vision 7S concept into production, Skoda aims to provide a vehicle that balances work and leisure requirements. The flagship is designed to meet user-friendliness standards while utilising the company's latest electric platform technology.

Martin Jahn, Skoda Auto Board Member for Sales and Marketing, said, “With the Vision 7S, we entered new territory for Skoda, with a clear idea of how to elevate the brand. Since then, we have introduced a new design language and further refined our product identity. Now we are bringing this innovative vehicle concept to life. Our new flagship model takes our brand values of spaciousness and practicality to a whole new level. As of today, our bold vision for Skoda’s electric future has a name: Peaq - a clear statement of where this model belongs in our portfolio.”

The world premiere of the Skoda Peaq is scheduled for summer 2026. This launch will follow four years of development since the initial debut of the design direction.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Honda Motor Co, has announced the adoption of a redesigned H mark as the symbol for its automobile business. The logo has represented Honda vehicles since 1963 and has undergone several modifications to reflect the company’s evolution.

The redesign coincides with the development of next-generation electric vehicles, including the Honda 0 Series. The company states that the design expression, resembling two outstretched hands, signifies its commitment to expanding mobility possibilities and meeting customer needs. The logo will be applied to electric and hybrid-electric models introduced from 2027.

Beyond vehicle badges, Honda will implement the mark across all automobile touchpoints. This includes dealership signage, communication materials, and motorsports activities. The transition marks what the company describes as its ‘second founding’ during the shift towards electrification and intelligent technologies.

By adopting this symbol, the manufacturer aims to lead the transformation of the automotive market. The move follows the strategy of utilising technology and ideas to move beyond conventional practices in vehicle production and branding.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!