With its emotive, aesthetic design, dynamic ability and spacious interior, this is the most luxurious sports coupe ever built by the company as the car embodies a perfect fusion of performance and progressive luxury. The two-door car offers luxurious ambience with the ultimate motorsport feeling, designed to challenge the limits of dynamic performance.

Arlindo Teixeira, acting President, BMW Group India said, “The first-ever BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe is a creation between ambition and emotion, between presence and extravagance - an avantgarde choice for frontrunners who drive the future. On the other hand, with the first-ever BMW M8 Coupe, we are addressing our high performance-oriented customers. These two top-of-the-line offerings in the uber-luxury segment define everything that captures one’s imagination.”

The standalone character of 8 Series Gran Coupe comes alive with a graceful elongated design, athletic proportions and an aura of sporting exclusivity. The two extra doors and impressive space combine with an extended wheelbase and exceptional ride comfort, making it an outstanding operator both in everyday driving and over longer journeys. For those who want an even sportier, bolder avatar of the 8 Series Gran Coupe, the ‘M Sport’ Edition is on offer.

8 Series Gran Coupe

Presence of precise vehicle lines are few, however, they underline the graphic design of 8 Series Gran Coupe. The muscular surfaces and precise contours of the bonnet together with large air intakes exhibit unconditional power and forward thrust. The striking double kidney grille widens towards the bottom, emphasizing the vehicle’s low centre of gravity – an effect that is further enhanced by extremely slim headlights. When viewed from the side, the long wheelbase, elegantly flowing coupe roofline and wide wheel arches create a dynamically stretched silhouette underlining the length and grandeur of the car. A suggestive third line runs through the door handles into the pronounced, curved shoulder. At the rear, the car’s sporting allure is intensified by extremely wide tracks, sport exhaust system and wrap-around LED lights.

The interior is seen as a living space, surrounded by the highest possible sensuous quality. In the driver-focused cockpit, sports car atmosphere is clear. Electrically adjustable sport seats provide a better grip and dynamic driving position. This experience is extended to all passengers thanks to the single-seat design of the rear seats for the first time.

The center console, which is wide and steeply ascending as is typical of sports cars, underscores the longitudinal orientation and has all relevant controls. Generous space allows passengers to stretch out and enjoy the experience of absolute freedom of movement. The luggage compartment has a capacity of 440 litres. The 40:20:40 split backrest allows greater flexibility and ease of loading / unloading.

The TwinPower Turbo BS-VI petrol engine delivers spontaneous responsiveness even at low engine speeds. The three-litre six-cylinder in-line petrol engine of the 840i Gran Coupe produces an output of 340 hp and maximum torque of 500 Nm at 1,600 – 4,500 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 km / hr in just 5.2 seconds.

M8 Coupe

Racing and design are intricately linked in the M8 Coupe and it is evident with its offer - a unique combination of racing flair with everyday usability. Its effective handling and supportive steering precision make it perfect for days when one wants to experience its sporting prowess.

Few but very precise surface lines convey the extent of power lurking beneath the hood. The hexagonal kidney grille with M typical double slats draws attention to itself between the iconic four-eye face of laser-light. The size of the air intakes widens towards the bottom and shows how immense the cooling requirements of the high-performance engine and brakes are. The torsion-resistant and light carbon-fibre material in the M carbon-fibre roof reduces weight and lends modern technological value to the aerodynamic shape. The side view amplifies aerodynamics with the sharp inclination of the shark nose, extra-large air curtains and few bold lines. Flared aluminium wings with M gills and M8 designation emphasise track width and wheel size. The rear spoiler lip, M-specific M8 rear diffuser and M-specific double-flow exhaust system with twin tailpipes highlight racing aspirations. Bringing out the sporty character is a range of new metallic paints - hatch grey, sonic speed blue, marina bay blue, donington grey, barcelona blue and motegi red. Optionally, customers can choose from a wide range of BMW Individual Paintwork options.

Interior

The driver-focused interior of the car accelerates sportiness and luxury. The driver and front passenger have a sporty, low seating position and the controls are grouped into clusters according to their function. The unique comfort and grip of the newly developed M sport seats is perfected by side bolsters and a flared shoulder area. This claim is visually underlined by the exclusive two-tone full leather 'Merino' upholstery with hexagonal embroidery in the seat’s center section and an exclusive illuminated ‘M8’ logo in the headrest.

The M TwinPower Turbo 4-litre 8-cylinder petrol engine is amongst the most powerful V8 engine ever developed by BMW M GmbH for a production vehicle. With two dynamic turbochargers, high-pressure direct injection, Valvetronic and a proven cooling concept, the engine creates a driving experience that even professionals dream of. It produces an output of 600 hp and maximum torque of 750 Nm at 1,800 to 5,600 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 kmph in just 3.3 seconds.

Transmission

The eight-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission in both the cars performs smooth, almost imperceptible gearshifts. At any time, in any gear, the transmission collaborates perfectly with the engine, enabling it to develop its full power and efficiency. The M Sport differential in 8 Series Gran Coupe ensures that even with challenging changes of direction or on various surfaces, the engine power is optimally brought to the road. While in M8 Coupe the steering wheel paddle shifters and cruise control with braking function add to greater driving pleasure.

Personalization

Both the cars adapt perfectly to an exclusive lifestyle and also to personal taste. A multitude of bespoke personalization options are presented right from the moment customers configure their car. In addition, BMW Individual presents the most luxurious choice of special paint finishes, hand-crafted leather, interior trims and other equipment details of the highest quality that are available in a diverse range. Each car becomes a unique reflection of the owner’s personal style statement.

The cars are available as completely-built-up units in BS-VI petrol variants. The ex-showroom prices are 840i Gran Coupe – INR1.3 Crore, 840i Gran Coupe ‘M Sport’ Edition - INR1.55 Crore and M8 Coupe - INR2.15 Crore.

Customers of the cars will gain membership to the BMW Excellence Club that caters to the discerning taste of BMW customers and curates unmatched experiences and benefits from the world of luxury, travel, lifestyle and sports and adventure. Its forte lies in creating ‘money can’t buy’ experiences that customers can’t find elsewhere. The program features four main categories: Bespoke Travel, The High Life, Grandstand and BMW Privileges.

Using the recently introduced ‘BMW Contactless Experience’, customers will be able to select, customise and book these cars from the comfort of their home. (MT)

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Maruti Suzuki India, the country’s largest passenger vehicle manufacturer, has reported its financial results for Q3 FY2026.

The company reported revenue of INR 475.344 billion, as against INR 368.02 billion last year, net profit came at INR 37.94 billion, as against INR 36.59 billion last year. It is to be noted that the net profit was impacted for Q3 FY2026 was impacted due to a one-time provision of INR 5,939 million relating to new Labour Codes.

During the period, the company achieved its highest quarterly domestic sales of 564,669 units, an increase of 97,676 units over the previous year. Total sales reached 667,769 units, which included 103,100 units in exports. This performance was supported by a recovery in the car market following GST reform, with the small car segment in the 18 percent GST bracket contributing significantly to the volume increase.

For the nine-month period from April to December 2025, the company recorded its highest sales volume, net sales and net profit. Total sales volume reached 1,746,504 units, with domestic sales at 1,435,945 units and exports at 310,559 units. Net sales for this period increased to INR 1,242 billion, while net profit grew to INR 1,085 billion.

Financial statements for the period have been restated following the amalgamation of Suzuki Motor Gujarat (SMG) with MSIL. This process took effect from 1 April 2025. The company continues to monitor market conditions as it manages its manufacturing and sales operations.

The recovery in the car market was led by the small car segment. Sales growth in this category accounted for 68,328 units of the total domestic increase. The company remains focused on domestic and export markets to maintain its sales volumes.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Volkswagen Passenger Cars India has showcased the Tayron R-Line, marking the first of five product interventions scheduled for 2026.

The company plans to introduce updates or new models in every quarter to maintain market presence. These interventions will include SUV, Sedan and Hatchback body styles, with each model intended for different segments of the premium market.

For 2026, the company stated it has established objectives focused on products, customer engagement and experiences. The strategy involves using product actions to address various customer sets throughout the year. The brand aims to sustain interest through these quarterly releases across its vehicle portfolio.

The roadmap for the year is designed to cover multiple segments, ensuring a consistent rollout of updates. By addressing three body styles, the manufacturer intends to reach a broad audience within the premium category. The initiative forms part of a wider plan to enhance the ownership experience and interaction with the brand in India.

Nitin Kohli, Brand Director, Volkswagen Passenger Cars India, said, “Today, we are glad to showcase the Tayron R-Line for the first time in India. I am also delighted to announce that we have planned four more product interventions throughout the year. This year, every quarter will witness a new product intervention that will cater to a different premium customer set. Our objective is to continue building excitement for customers through smart product actions and introducing models that will continue to build aspirations.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Renault India has revealed the new generation Duster in Chennai, marking the return of the nameplate to the Indian market. The vehicle is the first product launched under the Renault International Game Plan 2027, a strategy positioning India as a hub for the company's operations outside Europe.

The SUV is built on the Renault Group Modular Platform (RGMP), with 90 percent of its components designed specifically for the Indian market. The vehicle features a 2,657 mm wheelbase and 212 mm of ground clearance, with approach and departure angles of 26.9deg and 34.7deg respectively.

The Duster introduces three engine options, including a hybrid variant for the first time in India. The Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 pairs a 1.8L engine with a 1.4 kWh battery, designed to operate in electric mode for a claimed up to 80 percent of city driving.

Two petrol options are also available: the Turbo TCe 160, producing 163 PS and 280 Nm of torque and the Turbo TCe 100. Transmission choices include a six-speed manual and a six-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) with a wet clutch.

The cabin features a driver-centric layout with a 10.1-inch OpenR Link multimedia system. This system incorporates Google built-in, providing native access to Google Maps, Assistant, and the Play Store. A second 10.25-inch TFT display serves as the instrument cluster, capable of replicating navigation data.

Additional interior features include:

• Ventilated and electric front seats.
• Dual-zone automatic air conditioning with a PM2.5 air quality filter.
• Panoramic sunroof and electric tailgate.
• 17 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) functions.

Fabrice Cambolive, CEO, Renault Brand, said, “As part of the Renault International Game Plan 2027, we are making India a key pillar of our growth outside Europe. We now have a strong ecosystem in Chennai, bringing together design, engineering, manufacturing, and local operations at the highest level - making India one of the most complete and powerful hubs in Renault’s global network. The new Renault Duster is the first step in Renault’s renewal in India.”

Stephane Deblaise, CEO, Renault Group India, added, “With the new Renault Group Modular Platform, Renault brings an advanced hybrid technology and top-tier safety engineering. With Renault Forever program, we also offer our customers a significantly improved ownership experience. New Renault Duster is the start of a renewed product cycle and for an exciting trajectory for Renault in India. Renault is back.”

The vehicle comes with an industry first 7-year or 150,000 km warranty under the Renault Forever programme. Pre-bookings are open via the 'R Pass', with official pricing expected in mid-March 2026. Deliveries for petrol variants will commence in April 2026, while the Strong Hybrid version is scheduled for release during Diwali 2026.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Stellantis-owned electric vehicle brand Leapmotor recently showcased its new range of product offerings at the Brussels Motor Show.

The OEM utilised the platform to display its latest vehicle technologies and models as part of an expansion strategy within the European market. The lineup featured both battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) equipped with range extenders.

The event saw the European debut of the B03X, a model designed to showcase the brand's approach to electric technology. Additionally, Leapmotor provided the first public viewing of the B05 interior, highlighting a design philosophy focused on digital integration and materials.

Leapmotor launched the B10 Hybrid EV, which employs a range extender system. Unlike conventional hybrids where the internal combustion engine frequently powers the wheels directly, this architecture uses the electric motor as the sole source of propulsion. The engine serves as a generator to produce electricity for the battery when required and is never mechanically connected to the drivetrain.

This configuration is intended to provide the torque and noise levels of a pure electric vehicle while addressing infrastructure limitations and range anxiety. The system manages energy automatically, allowing for long-distance travel without a reliance on fast-charging stations. Leapmotor positions this solution as a practical transition for regions with varying levels of electrification readiness.

In a standard HEV, the engine drives the wheels, with the electric motor acting in a supporting role. Conversely, Leapmotor's system maintains a consistent electric driving experience because the engine does not provide mechanical drive.

By removing the mechanical complexity of traditional hybrid drivetrains that switch between multiple modes, the company claims a more refined operation. The range extender is designed to operate only in ideal conditions to optimise efficiency and reduce noise.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!