There are four Bugatti sports cars that represent automotive innovation like no others cars do.

It would come as a surprise that the four cars that represent innovation in automobiles in its purest form are all Bugatti sports cars. Showcasing the evolution of automobiles in a way that is unique and amounts to flexing the boundaries of what machines can really be or do what they are expected to do to the fullest, the four Bugatti cars are the Veyron 16.4 Super Sport World Record Edition, Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse World Record Edition, Chiron Super Sport 300+ and the W16 Mistral World Record Car.

Successful in carving out a niche, each of the four cars – ultra super cars – have come to represent Bugatti’s incomparable legacy. The Veyron 16.4 Super Sport World Record Edition, on a beautiful day of April 2010, achieved a new land speed world record for production cars on the proving grounds of the Volkswagen Group at Ehra-Lessien (nearby its headquarters at Wolfsburg). In the presence of the German Technical Inspection Agency (TÜV) and a representative of Guinness Book of Records, the Super Sport achieved an average top speed of 431 kmph!

Bugatti’s Pilote Officiel Pierre Henri Raphanel put his helmet and gloves on, pulled the safety belts tight whilst the engineers checked the car a very last time for tyre pressure, temperature and all the systems.

The orange-black Super Sport crossed the light barrier within one hour by driving from South to North and then in the opposite direction. The driver being the only one to touch the car during the record run, the description of the Veyron as its headlights appeared at a certain point of the track was of a jumbo jet coming closer and simply jetting by.

The GPS-tachometer recorded a speed of as much as 933 kmph. The average speed generated by the TUV and Guinness representatives was a whopping 431.072 kmph, which surprised even the Bugatti team.

The roadster version of Veyron 16.4 Super Sport World Record Edition, Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse World Record Edition, set the world speed record for open-top production sports cars at the Volkswagen Group’s proving grounds in Ehra-Lessien.

TÜV, the renowned independent German organisation for technical inspection and certification, officially confirmed that a top speed of 408.84 kmph was achieved when the super car was driven by the Chinese racing driver Anthony Liu in 2013.

On the market since the spring of 2012, the open-top sports car is fitted with an 8.0 litre W16 engine that pours 1,200 PS and a torque of 1,500 Nm at 3,000 to 5,000 rpm on the road. Its high-performance handling can be attributed to a racing chassis, which together with extremely fast-acting shock absorbers and reinforced anti-roll bars, guarantees exact control of both the four-wheel drive system and the entire vehicle.

The other factors that enable such performance at the upper limits include a standard carbon monocoque with high torsional rigidity and an outer shell made entirely of carbon fibre. With wind noise and air turbulence a particular concern with open-top vehicles, the Vitesse is offered with a specially developed roof spoiler along with an intricately designed windbreak that guarantees calm open-top driving.

The Chiron Super Sport 300+ is the fastest Bugatti ever made, redefining what is possible when it comes to speed and aerodynamics. Piloted by Bugatti’s Pilote Officiel Andy Wallace, the hypercar smashed through the 482.803 kmph (300 mph) barrier in 2019. Never had a production car reached such speeds ever!

Occupying a spot in the history and standing as a marker in the quest for greater performance and speed, the hypercar was fitted with a re-engineered version of Bugatti’s legendary 8.0 litre W16 engine that produced 1,600 PS of power. A new thermal management system for the engine and gearbox were developed. Refinements to the software governing the engine, gearbox and turbochargers were also made.

To ensure top notch stability, the car was fitted with a ‘longtail’ that extended the car length by approximately 25 cm. This allowed the laminar flow to pass over the body for a longer period of time, reducing aerodynamic stall by more than 40 percent. Air curtains adorning the hyper sports car’s front corners dispersed excess air pressure towards the car’s sides. Simultaneously, air outlets at the wheel arches and behind the front wheels guided excess pressure away from each wheel arch, reducing drag by also producing a small amount of negative lift. Liberal use of exposed carbon fibre – flowing through into the car’s engine cover and the windscreen wiper, thereby contributing to crucial weight-saving that helps the hyper sports car push the envelope of performance – was resorted to. Extremely light and strong magnesium alloy wheels were deployed.

Andy Wallace – Bugatti Pilote Officiel and winner of the Le Mans 24 Hours – assumed the controls of the one-off W16 Mistral World Record Car, warming up the vehicle’s bespoke high-performance tyres on a first anticipatory lap. Ascending to a specified speed of 200 kmph into the banking of the track (of ATP Automotive Testing Papenburg GmbH), he increased the speed before unleashing the full power of the vehicle as the straight opened up coming off the banking, taking it to new heights of record speed in November 2024. Under the meticulous control of SGS-TÜV Saar GmbH, the achievement of a new world top-speed record for an open-top car was officially confirmed at the end of the run, with Andy reaching an incredible 453.91 kmph.

The EUR 14 million hypercar is powered by an 8.0-litre, quad-turbo, W16 engine that does an impressive 1,578 bhp. Innovative is the W16 Mistral’s X-taillight arrangement, which channels hot air from the radiators through ducts towards the rear of the vehicle. The air is expelled through the vents in the X-taillight arrangement.

The hypercar’s ramp-design diffuser accelerates the air’s journey from the rear of the vehicle, which increases downforce and helps the model excel at high speeds. Contributing to the vehicle’s excellent stability are bespoke high-performance tyres.

MT

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Mercedes-Benz India has fortified the legendary G-Class lineage with the launch of the all-new G 450d, a vehicle distinguished by the most potent diesel engine in the brand's portfolio. This introduction completes a comprehensive powertrain strategy for the iconic SUV in India, now encompassing a diesel, a petrol, and a fully electric model. The G 450d is powered by an advanced 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder diesel engine, augmented by a 48-volt electrical system and an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG). This sophisticated powertrain generates 270 kW and a formidable 750 Nm of torque, propelling the substantial SUV from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 5.8 seconds, with a top speed of 210 kmph.

The model's identity remains deeply rooted in its unparalleled off-road capability, honed over 45 years. Its proven ladder-frame construction, three 100 percent mechanical differential locks and a suspension system combining a double-wishbone independent front setup with a rigid rear axle form the bedrock of its rugged character. Key off-road metrics include a maximum 100 percent gradeability, a fording depth of 70 cm and approach, departure and breakover angles of 31, 30 and 26 degrees respectively. The standard adaptive adjustable damping and the DYNAMIC SELECT system – which includes three dedicated off-road driving programmes – allow drivers to effortlessly tailor the vehicle's character for any terrain. A redesigned Offroad Cockpit in the digital displays provides vital information like steering angle and tyre pressure, while the ‘Transparent Hood’ function offers a virtual view of the terrain ahead.

Visually, the G 450d retains the timeless, commanding silhouette of the G-Class while incorporating subtle yet distinct updates. A new radiator grille with four horizontal louvres and a redesigned front bumper with integrated vertical louvers define the front aspect. The vehicle rides on standard 20-inch AMG alloy wheels, reinforcing its powerful stance.

Inside, the cabin merges traditional robustness with state-of-the-art technology and luxury. The dashboard is dominated by two 12.3-inch screens for the driver and multimedia, housing the latest MBUX NTG7 infotainment system. This system features augmented reality navigation, which superimposes directional cues onto a live video feed, along with wireless smartphone integration. The exclusive MANUFAKTUR programme offers near-limitless personalisation, from unique paint colours to bespoke interior trims, spare wheel rings and decorative stitching. The AMG line interior theme, enhanced by Nappa leather, ambient lighting and an available Burmester 3D surround sound system with Dolby Atmos, creates an exceptionally luxurious environment. Comprehensive noise insulation and acoustic glass ensure exceptional cabin serenity, while a suite of advanced safety features, including Active Brake Assist and a 360-degree camera, provides confidence on every journey.

To celebrate the G-Class heritage, Mercedes-Benz India will soon initiate the exclusive ‘G-Tribe Escapade,’ a curated driving expedition for select customers. This journey will traverse from India to the scenic landscapes of Thimphu, Punakha and Paro, offering a firsthand experience of the vehicle's capabilities.

Santosh Iyer, Managing Director and CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, said, "The new G 450d underlines our commitment to offer diesel, petrol and electric powertrain for the first time in India to the G-Class, the longest running nameplate in the automotive industry. The G 450d featuring Mercedes-Benz’s powerful and efficient diesel engine, combines performance with efficiency, reiterating the sustained customer demand for a diesel powertrain in the G-Class. The G 450d ensures Mercedes-Benz now has a ‘G-Class’ for every customer requirement in India, further elevating practicality along with desirability and cult status of this iconic SUV."

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VinFast, one of the youngest automotive companies, has announced that it has become the first car brand in Vietnam to pass 100,000 vehicle sales within the first three quarters of a single year. The milestone follows 11 consecutive months as the nation’s top-selling carmaker.

In September 2025, VinFast delivered 13,914 electric vehicles, bringing the total for the first nine months of the year to 103,884 units.

• The VF 3 recorded 31,386 units sold in the first nine months, with 2,682 units sold in September.
• The VF 5 followed with 30,956 units sold over the same period, including 3,847 units in September. Its fleet variant, the Herio Green, sold 8,604 cumulative units.
• The VF 6 reached 14,425 units since the start of the year, with 1,933 delivered in September.
• The VF 7 recorded 5,877 cumulative sales over nine months, with 778 units sold last month.
• The Limo Green, a seven-seater MPV, sold 2,120 vehicles in September.

With three months of Q4 remaining and production capacity increased at its Hai Phong and Ha Tinh manufacturing complexes, VinFast expects to set more records by end-2025.

Duong Thi Thu Trang, Global Deputy CEO of Sales and Marketing, VinFast, said, “Behind the figure of more than 100,000 vehicles are millions of acts of trust and support from our customers. We are deeply grateful for their confidence and remain committed to delivering ever greater value, thereby accelerating Vietnam’s green transition.”

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German luxury carmaker Audi has opened two new facilities in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. The brand has opened an Audi Approved: plus pre-owned car showroom and a service workshop. Both facilities were established in partnership with existing dealer Adventure Auto Car India. The new facilities mark the brand’s first presence in Uttarakhand.

Every vehicle sold under the Audi Approved: plus programme undergoes mechanical, bodywork, interior, and electrical checks at over 300 multi-point checks, along with a full on-road test. The programme offers 24x7 Roadside Assistance and a vehicle history before purchase. Customers can also use financing and insurance benefits through the programme.

The service facility features periodic maintenance and repair capabilities. It is staffed by Audi-trained technicians and uses approved tools and diagnostic technologies.

Balbir Singh Dhillon, Head of Audi India, said, “The inauguration of two new facilities in Dehradun – our 27th Audi Approved: plus pre-owned car showroom and a new service workshop – marks a significant milestone as we make our debut in Uttarakhand. Over the past five years, we have experienced strong growth in the pre-owned luxury segment, with our Audi Approved: plus network expanding from 7 to 27 facilities across the country. This growth underscores our commitment to making Audi ownership more accessible while upholding the highest standards of quality and customer service. The Audi Approved: plus business has emerged as a key growth driver for our strategy, and with its strategic location, Dehradun will serve as a vital gateway to the growing luxury car market in the region. The addition of the new service facility not only enhances convenience for our customers but also reinforces our focus on staying closely connected with them.”

Aditya Agarwalla, Dealer Principal, Audi Approved: plus Dehradun, said, “We are excited to bring Audi's prestigious pre-owned car experience to Uttarakhand for the first time. The region has shown tremendous growth potential in the luxury segment and we are committed to setting new benchmarks in customer satisfaction and service excellence. Our team is dedicated to providing personalised service that matches Audi's global standards while understanding the unique preferences of customers in this region. With the launch of the new service facility, we are pleased to deepen our association with Audi India and are committed to serving our customers with the highest standards of care.”

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BMW Group India is reporting record-breaking sales for the first three quarters of 2025 (calendar year), marking its strongest performance in the market to date. Between January and September, the company delivered 11,978 cars and 3,976 motorcycles. The BMW brand itself contributed 11,510 car sales, while MINI accounted for 468 units. This impressive growth trajectory was particularly strong in the third quarter, which saw a 21 percent year-on-year sales increase and set a new record for both the quarter and the month of September, fuelled by festive demand and favourable market conditions post GST 2.0.

A significant driver of this success is the company's electric vehicle portfolio, which solidifies its position as the country's leading luxury EV brand. Sales of electric BMW and MINI models surged by an astounding 246 percent, with 2,509 units delivered. This pushed the EV contribution to total car sales to 21 percent, led by the iX1 and the flagship i7 sedan. This momentum also allowed BMW Group India to surpass a cumulative total of 5,000 electric vehicle deliveries during the third quarter. The company supports its six electric cars and two electric scooters with a comprehensive charging ecosystem, including complimentary Wallbox chargers, a fast-charging dealer network and access to over 6,000 public charging points.

Further defining the sales landscape is the exceptional demand for long wheelbase models, which grew by 169 percent to 5,720 units. These models, including the 7 Series, 5 Series, 3 Series and the iX1, now constitute half of all car sales. The 3 Series emerged as the highest-selling BMW sedan, praised for its spaciousness and powerful engine, while the 7 Series continues to be the segment's most desirable ultra-luxury limousine.

The Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) segment also remains a cornerstone of BMW's dominance, with 7,040 units sold, a 19 percent increase that represents 59 percent of total sales. The X1 was the highest-selling model across the entire portfolio and within its segment, followed by the flagship X7. Meanwhile, the MINI brand delivered 468 units between January to September 2025 and saw the Cooper S model achieve a sales growth of over 90 percent. BMW Motorrad sold 3,976 motorcycles, with the G 310 RR and the 1300 GS / GSA models leading their respective categories.

Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India, said, “BMW Group India has continuously succeeded in attaining high growth throughout 2025. The highest-ever sales in first nine months as well as in the third quarter reflect our unparalleled focus on customer centricity. The strong product offensive coupled with excellent aftersales services, personalised brand engagements and financial offers have spurred demand significantly. Our long-term strategy is aimed at successfully unlocking the potential of luxury car market and increasing market share while maintaining the core of JOY and Sheer Driving Pleasure we promise. The order bank remains healthy, and we are confident of closing the year with best-ever sales once again.”

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