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Hindustan Times
6 days ago
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
Volkswagen Tayron spotted in India, will rival Toyota Fortuner
Volkswagen is gearing up to expand its SUV lineup in India with the upcoming Tayron , a premium three-row SUV that will eventually replace the Tiguan Allspace in the company's portfolio. The Tayron was recently caught testing on Indian roads, hinting at an impending launch. The test mule was not camouflaged but only the rear of the SUV was visible. Originally sold in the Chinese market since 2019, the Tayron is now undergoing a major overhaul for global markets. The version spied in India is likely the facelifted model that was recently showcased in concept form overseas. Once launched, it will take over from the Tiguan Allspace, which was phased out due to low demand and the brand's shift in strategy towards newer models with broader appeal. Also check these Cars Find more Cars UPCOMING Volkswagen Tayron 1984 cc 1984 cc Petrol Petrol ₹ 48 - 50 Lakhs Alert Me When Launched Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line 1984 cc 1984 cc Petrol Petrol ₹ 49 Lakhs Compare View Offers BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe 1499 cc 1499 cc Petrol Petrol ₹ 46.90 Lakhs Compare View Offers Skoda Kodiaq 1984 cc 1984 cc Petrol Petrol ₹ 46.89 Lakhs Compare View Offers Audi Q3 1984 cc 1984 cc Petrol Petrol ₹ 44.99 Lakhs Compare View Offers Nissan X-Trail 1498 cc 1498 cc Petrol Petrol ₹ 49.92 Lakhs Compare View Offers From the images, the Tayron appears to carry a robust design, with a wider stance and more pronounced SUV proportions compared to the outgoing Allspace. The front-end styling is expected to feature a larger grille flanked by sleek LED headlamps, while the rear is likely to get updated LED tail-lights and a more sculpted tailgate. The SUV will be underpinned by the familiar MQB platform, which also supports models like the Skoda Kodiaq and Volkswagen Tiguan. Volkswagen Tayron will share its engine with the Tiguan R-Line. (Twitter/@vthewoke) Inside, the Tayron is expected to offer a more premium experience with improved material quality, a larger touchscreen infotainment system, digital instrument cluster, and advanced driver-assistance features. It will most likely be offered as a 7-seater, catering to families seeking both space and sophistication. Also Read : Skoda Auto Volkswagen India expands portfolio with Bentley luxury cars Under the hood, Volkswagen is expected to equip the Tayron with a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine, paired with a 7-speed DSG automatic transmission. An all-wheel-drive system may be offered on higher variants to enhance its versatility. Once launched, the Tayron will rival other 3-row premium SUVs in India like the Toyota Fortuner, MG Gloster, and Skoda Kodiaq. With its global debut slated for later this year, Indian customers can expect a launch sometime in 2025. Volkswagen's monsoon service camp Volkswagen India has revealed the commencement of its yearly Monsoon Service Camp, designed to assist vehicle owners in getting ready for the difficulties posed by the rainy season. This initiative is accessible at all authorized service centers throughout India. The Monsoon Service Camp is currently operational at Volkswagen's service locations across the country and will be available for a limited duration. Customers are encouraged to contact their respective service centers for further details regarding the advantages of the Monsoon Service Camp. In addition to service promotions, Volkswagen is providing essential monsoon car care advice through its service network to ensure that drivers are well-informed about seasonal vehicle upkeep. Check out Upcoming Cars in India 2025, Best SUVs in India. First Published Date:
Hindustan Times
16-07-2025
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
Bentley's first electric SUV to debut in 2026, won't replace Bentagya: Report
The new electric SUV by Bentley is to be designed and manufactured at Bentley's headquarters in Crewe, UK. Although detailed specifications remain under wraps, the initial teaser image reveals a sleek design with a silhouette akin to the Bentayga Check Offers British luxury carmaker Bentley has confirmed that its first-ever all-electric vehicle will break cover by the end of 2026. Marking a bold step in the brand's electrification journey, the debut model will be a compact urban SUV that measures under five metres in length — making it smaller than the current Bentayga, yet still sizeable by most standards. Bentley electric SUV: A standalone nameplate Unlike expectations that Bentley might electrify the Bentayga nameplate, the brand's first EV will be a completely new model, a report by stated. It will not replace the Bentayga, which continues to be Bentley's best-seller globally. Instead, the new electric SUV will flank it and assist the brand in expanding its customer base in the EV market. Also Read : Skoda Auto Volkswagen India expands portfolio with Bentley luxury cars Although Bentley has not yet disclosed the name or specific details of the model, one teaser silhouette suggests a low-roof, smooth crossover posture. The vehicle will be shorter than the standard Bentayga (5125mm) and significantly more compact than the Bentayga EWB (5305mm). For context, it will still be longer than many mainstream SUVs, including the Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series, which also falls just under the five-metre mark. Bentley EV strategy: From hybrids to full electrification Bentley has realigned its electrification timeline, with the goal of becoming a full electric brand by 2035 — five years behind its previous target of 2030. This adjustment comes in view of changing global regulations and uncertain demand, with plug-in hybrid powertrains still playing a vital role in the meantime. The carmaker has already started the process of phasing out the older powertrains. Having discontinued the legendary 6.0-litre W12 engine in 2024, Bentley now depends on V6 and V8 hybrid powertrains in the entire Flying Spur, Continental GT, and Bentayga lineup. From 2027 onwards, Bentley intends to introduce a new hybrid or electric model every year, with the aim to make the transition to a zero-emissions future in a gradual but steady manner. Also Read : Bentley Bentayga Speed sets new SUV hill climb record at Goodwood What to expect next Bentley's upcoming electric SUV intends to combine the brand's characteristics of craftsmanship, luxury and performance with state-of-the-art EV architecture. Although specifications have yet to be released, this model should represent a new dawn for Bentley's luxury EVs and cater to a client segment that wants to be sustainable and exclusive. Check out Upcoming EV Cars in India. First Published Date: 16 Jul 2025, 18:30 pm IST
Hindustan Times
12-07-2025
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
Bentley Bentayga Speed sets new SUV hill climb record at Goodwood
The Bentley Bentayga Speed has set a new record at the Goodwood Speed Festival. Check Offers Bentley's latest Bentayga Speed has officially set a new record for the fastest internal combustion engine (ICE) production SUV on the Goodwood Festival of Speed hill climb. Despite patchy wet conditions, the 641 bhp luxury SUV completed the hill run in 55.8 seconds last Sunday, ahead of the festival's public opening. The time marks an improvement of almost one second over the previous W12-powered Bentayga Speed's run in dry conditions. It also beats all other ICE production SUVs recorded at the event. Only Bentley's specially modified Pikes Peak Bentayga has gone faster up the same hill. Bentley's vehicle dynamics specialist Andy Marson, driving the Bentayga Speed, reached a peak speed of 209 kmph before braking for Molecomb corner. According to Bentley, the run showcased the car's revised chassis, ESC Dynamic settings, and all-wheel steering systems aimed at improving cornering response and stability. Bentley Bentayga Speed: Engine and handling The new Bentayga Speed uses a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, producing 641 bhp and 850 Nm of torque. It accelerates from 0–60 mph in a claimed 3.4 seconds and reaches a top speed of 310 kmph. Compared to previous Bentayga models, the latest version introduces several handling updates. These include a recalibrated SPORT driving mode, ESC Dynamic software, and all-wheel steering. Bentley says these changes allow for more responsive steering, improved cornering grip, and greater driver control. Also Read : Bentley EXP 15 concept hints at brand's unconventional take on luxury EVs. Check details Bentley Bentayga Speed: Chassis and braking The Bentayga Speed offers optional carbon ceramic brakes. In combination with ESC Dynamic mode, these brakes are designed to allow more flexibility for drivers, including the ability to engage controlled drift angles or sharper turn-ins using torque vectoring. All-wheel steering has been introduced as well. At lower speeds, the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction to the front wheels, reducing the turning circle. At higher speeds, the rear wheels turn in the same direction for increased stability. Bentley Bentayga Speed: Design and customisation Visually, the Bentayga Speed retains its familiar SUV proportions but adds darker exterior elements. Features include dark-tinted headlamp and tail lamp bezels, 22-inch Speed wheels as standard, and an optional 23-inch wheel, a first for Bentley SUVs, available with the carbon ceramic brake package. Painted brake callipers in a range of colours are also available, reflecting the growing emphasis on personalisation in the luxury SUV segment. Also Read : Skoda Auto Volkswagen India expands portfolio with Bentley luxury cars Bentley Bentayga Speed: Rivals While high-performance SUVs continue to gain popularity, the Bentayga Speed's latest record puts it at the top among production ICE-powered models tackling the Goodwood hill. The car's mix of power, updated handling systems, and braking options places it firmly in competition with rivals from brands such as Lamborghini and Aston Martin. Check out Upcoming Cars in India 2025, Best SUVs in India. First Published Date: 12 Jul 2025, 13:30 pm IST
Hindustan Times
09-07-2025
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
Bentley EXP 15 concept hints at brand's unconventional take on luxury EVs
The three-seat layout of the EXP 15 draws direct inspiration from the 1930 Bentley Speed Six 'Blue Train,' a car named after a publicity race involving Bentley's then-chairman Woolf Barnato and a French train. Check Offers Bentley has taken the covers off its EXP 15 concept, offering an early look at the brand's approach to its first electric vehicle, expected in 2026. Rather than following traditional design paths, the EXP 15 leans heavily into experimentation, both in form and layout, with clear references to the company's past. An unusual layout The three-seat layout of the EXP 15 draws direct inspiration from the 1930 Bentley Speed Six 'Blue Train," a car named after a publicity race involving Bentley's then-chairman Woolf Barnato and a French train. That historical connection is visible in the car's shape and seating arrangement: a right-hand driver's seat with two staggered passenger seats behind. The door layout is also unconventional, with two doors on the left side and one on the right. A custom dog bed ahead of the rear passenger seat and picnic chairs integrated into the tailgate point to lifestyle-focused additions not commonly seen in production vehicles. Also Read : Skoda Auto Volkswagen India expands portfolio with Bentley luxury cars No Engine, No Grille, New Priorities Without a combustion engine to package, Bentley's designers have rethought proportions and features. The EXP 15 retains a long front section, not for performance hardware but to house twin storage compartments accessed through centre-hinged panels. The traditional front grille has been replaced by a decorative lighting element, which Bentley calls 'digital art." Inside, the concept mixes digital screens with physical controls, and uses materials from longstanding British textile suppliers. As screens fill the dashboard, physical switches and conventional textures are still there, suggestive of a hybrid solution instead of a complete digital shift. Straddling segments in a shifting market Bentley's design chief Robin Page admits the EXP 15 does not neatly fall into a single class of vehicle. Its proportions sit somewhere between a coupe, sedan, and SUV—likely a response to the evolving preferences in the luxury segment. According to Page, customer expectations around sedan design are diverging, and the EXP 15 was developed in part to gauge interest in new formats. Also Read : Bentley Bentayga Speed unveiled as the brand's most powerful SUV yet. Here's what it gets Balancing experimentation with brand familiarity In spite of its unorthodox layout, the EXP 15 still retains several fundamental characteristics of the modern Bentleys—grand size, aggressive road presence, and focus on long-distance comfort. Ettore Bugatti once supposedly described early Bentley 3-Litre as "the fastest lorry in the world," underlining the firm's tradition of combining performance with bulk. The EXP 15, electric and asymmetrical as it is, follows that same path of embracing size and distinctiveness, even if the execution feels more speculative than production-ready. The concept's value lies less in being a preview of a specific model and more in showing how Bentley is grappling with what a luxury electric vehicle could be—one that may not need to look or function like anything the brand has produced before. Check out Upcoming EV Cars in India, Upcoming EV Bikes in India. First Published Date: 09 Jul 2025, 09:27 AM IST
India Gazette
07-07-2025
- Automotive
- India Gazette
Skoda Auto Volkswagen India adds Bentley to its India portfolio
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], July 7 (ANI): Skoda Auto Volkswagen India on Monday announced the addition of Bentley, the legendary British brand, as the sixth marque under the Group's umbrella. From July 1, 2025, Skoda Auto Volkswagen India has been exclusively importing, distributing and servicing Bentley vehicles across the country, deepening the Group's commitment to India's rapidly expanding luxury car arena. All marketing, sales, and after-sales operations will be conducted under a newly established entity, Bentley India, a group company of Skoda Auto Volkswagen India, which will oversee the brand's India strategy and retail network, according to a company statement. Abbey Thomas has been appointed as the Brand Director of Bentley India, leading the brand in the Indian market. According to the company's statement, Bentley India will have three new dealer partners across key cities, starting with Bengaluru and Mumbai, followed by New Delhi. These new showrooms will offer India's ultra-high-net-worth customers Bentley products. Piyush Arora, Managing Director and CEO of Skoda Auto Volkswagen India said, 'Welcoming Bentley into the SAVWIPL family is a proud milestone that completes our portfolio -- from the precision of German engineering to the timeless elegance and unmatched performance of British craftsmanship. India's appetite for uncompromising luxury is growing rapidly. Additionally, Abbey's deep understanding of the Indian market makes him the ideal leader to steer Bentley India toward new milestones.' Jan Bures, Executive Director, Sales, Marketing and Digital of Skoda Auto Volkswagen India, said, 'It's a proud moment for us in India to welcome Bentley into the SAVWIPL family. The ever-growing UHNI segment in India will benefit from this new association, and we, along with our new dealer partners, will ensure the best of luxury and performance for our customers.' For over two decades, Bentley has been a part of India's luxury car landscape. Headquartered in Pune, Skoda Auto Volkswagen India manages the Indian operations of six prestigious brands - Skoda, Volkswagen, Audi, Bentley, Lamborghini, and Porsche. It operates two manufacturing facilities in India - at Chakan, Pune, and Shendra, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (formerly known as Aurangabad). (ANI)
