Latest news with #XSeries
The Citizen
2 days ago
- Automotive
- The Citizen
Omoda C5 X Series doesn't just marks the spot, it hits the spot
New crossover SUV models swap out much-criticised CVT for dual-clutch transmission. Opinions vary over every aspect of Chinese carmaker from manufacturing to after sales backup. Except for one thing. The Chinese learn damn fast and apply what they've learned in no time. The Omoda C5 is just another case on point. The crossover SUV has been the cornerstone of Chery-owned Omoda & Jaecoo's local success since its debut just over two years ago. During this time, O&J twice introduced a lower-priced entry-level model to the C5 range. And more recently, two X Series models have joined the range below the S variants. These offer dual-clutch transmission (DCT) as an alternative to the much-criticised CVT gearbox. At a reduced price nogal. Omoda C5 X Series arrives The Omoda C5 Lux X DCT and Elegance X DCT have replaced the standard Lux CVT and Elegance CVT models. At R425 900, the Lux X DCT is R52 000 cheaper than before and the Elegance X DCT R42 000 less at R465 900. The Citizen Motoring recently sampled the Omoda C5 in Elegance X DCT guise. Lowering pricing usually goes with cutting some fat, but in this case, O&J actually found a way of adding a whole lot. These come under the skin, styling, space, spec and after sales backup. Apart from the gearbox upgrade, the X Series also features hardware enhancements in the form of improved brake pedal response and replacing of the torsion beam rear suspension with a multi-link setup. Improved looks The front end, which futuristic styling helped the Omoda C5 make a grande local entrance in 2023, now features a redesigned matrix grille and headlights and new bumper. The LED daytime running lights motif is also more in line with its bigger C9 sibling. No changes were made to the rear, while we thought new 17-inch black alloy wheels adds to C5 X Series' overall appeal. Inside, the materials on the doors have been upgraded, along with the addition of a more powerful 50-watt wireless charger. These features alongside the carried-over set of goodies which includes dual 10.25-inch screens, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and Hello Chery voice recognition system. The comprehensive set of safety features also stay unchanged. The Omoda C5 Elegance X rides on 17-inch black alloy wheels. Picture: Jaco van der Merwe Designers have also somehow managed to eek out more boot space in a structure featuring the same architecture. It has gone up from 378 litre to a very respectable 442 litres. Omoda C5 X sticks to familiar mill The service plan, which is standard alongside a five-year/150 000km warranty and 10-year/one-million km engine warranty for the first owner, has been upgraded. It goes from a two-year/30 000km plan to a five-year/70 000km contract. ALSO READ: Omoda C5 range adjusted again to include new X Series pair Besides all these valuable additions, the real hardcore deal breaker for Omoda C5 X Series – besides its price – is the six-speed DCT gearbox. Like the CVT, it is mated to a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine which sends 115kW of power and 230Nm of torque to the front wheels. The drive mode selector also now include Normal mode alongside the Eco and Sport modes. While a DCT box over a CVT must be regarded as an upgrade all day every day, is it by no means perfect. Our biggest gripe with it the shuddering when coming to a stop. The Omoda C5 Elegance X features two 10.25-inch digital screens. Picture: Jaco van der Merwe Slow to react But to be fair to the box, it is not solely to blame for drivetrain annoyances. Loads of low-down turbo lag and typical Chinese throttle calibration issues do not help its cause. A much-delayed response during acceleration from a standstill, followed by too much power, is all to familiar. And that is sadly something that no driving mode software or gearbox mechanism can fix. ALSO READ: Omoda C5's price drops below R350 000 with new Street variant Omoda claims the DCT will sip 6.9 litres per 100km compared to the CVT's 7.4L/100km. But as we've seen so many times with this mill in various models regardless of transmission, our consumption just dipped under 10L/100km after a week of city traffic. All in all, the Omoda C5 Elegance X DCT is a very appealing package at a very competitive price. Even if your heart isn't completely sold because of the drivetrain issues, your head is likely to overrule it taking into account what is on the table.
Time of India
7 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
ViewSonic unveils three new projectors in India for gaming, streaming, and business applications
ViewSonic India has launched three new projector models targeting distinct market segments: the upgraded X1-4K Pro and X2-4K Pro for home entertainment, and the SP7 projector designed for educational and corporate environments. The X1-4K Pro priced at Rs 3,60,000 and X2-4K Pro that comes at Rs 3,90,000) are two of the newest models in the ViewSonic's flagship X Series enhancement, featuring built-in Google TV integration and "Designed for Xbox" certification. These projectors deliver native 4K HDR resolution, support 1440p at 120Hz gaming, and offer ultra-low 4.2ms input lag for responsive console gaming. The models include direct access to streaming platforms like Netflix, YouTube, and Disney+ without requiring external devices. Both gaming-focused projectors utilize Texas Instruments ' 0.65-inch DMD chip and LED-powered light engines generating 3,300 LED lumens of brightness. They support 125% Rec. 709 color coverage and feature integrated Harman Kardon speakers for cinematic audio. The X2-4K Pro offers short-throw capability, projecting 100-inch images from just 1.5 meters distance. The SP7 projector, priced at Rs 75,000, targets classrooms and meeting rooms with 4,800 ANSI Lumens brightness and 22,000:1 contrast ratio. ViewSonic's proprietary SuperColor technology provides enhanced color accuracy across five customizable modes including Presentation, Brightest, and Photo settings. The lamp life extends up to 15,000 hours through Eco and SuperEco modes. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like AirSense 11 – Smart tech for deep sleep ResMed Buy Now Undo "There's a growing need for display solutions that are smart, immersive, and purpose-built," said Muneer Ahmad, Vice-President of AV Business at ViewSonic India. The launches reflect the company's strategy to address evolving content consumption and collaboration needs across residential and professional spaces. All three projectors are immediately available through system integrators and value-added resellers nationwide. The X-Series models feature TÜV SÜD certification for low blue light emissions and mercury-free operation, while the SP7 includes presentation tools like built-in timers and multi-device remote compatibility for educational environments. AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
Associated Press
16-07-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Martin Guitar Expands Innovation and Versatility with New Inception™, X Series & Road Series Models
NAZARETH, Pa., July 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- C.F. Martin & Co.® is proud to announce the release of five exciting new models that blend tradition with innovation and meet the needs of today's diverse players. The launch includes a refreshed GPCE Inception Maple with a bold new gloss finish, the all-new non-cutaway GPE Inception Maple, two special X Series additions, and the SC-10E Spruce—a fresh take on Martin's revolutionary SC design now joining the Road Series. GPCE Inception Maple Martin's game-changing Inception Series gets a visual and tonal upgrade with the refreshed GPCE Inception Maple. Now featuring a full-body gloss amber fade sunburst finish, this model blends cutting-edge acoustic design with FSC®-certified tonewoods. A European spruce top delivers bold projection and quick response, while flamed maple back and sides provide clarity and brightness, all balanced by a black walnut wedge. Skeletonized bracing and sonic channeling—purpose-built for this tonewood pairing—enhance both sustain and amplitude. With premium appointments like a satin black walnut neck, FSC-certified ebony fingerboard and bridge, and LR Baggs Anthem electronics, the GPCE Inception Maple proves that sustainability, innovation, and striking aesthetics can coexist in perfect harmony. GPE Inception Maple Also debuting is the GPE Inception Maple, which brings a non-cutaway Grand Performance shape to the Inception Series for the first time. Players will enjoy the same striking tonewood pairing, premium appointments, and Martin's innovative bracing as the GPCE model—but with a full-body design for those who prefer a more traditional silhouette. It offers a crisp, balanced tone that's effortlessly expressive, with the added visual punch and presence of its new gloss finish. Paired with LR Baggs Anthem electronics, this model delivers a truly dynamic and versatile acoustic-electric experience. GP-X2E Ziricote Special Expanding the X Series lineup is the GP-X2E Ziricote Special, a limited-time Grand Performance model that blends bold tone with player-focused features. With a solid sapele top and ziricote-patterned high-pressure laminate (HPL) back and sides, this guitar is durable, stylish, and responsive. The Performing Artist neck profile and high-performance taper ensure smooth playability, while Martin E1 electronics with a built-in tuner give you full control on stage or at home. It's an affordable, road-ready companion for players of all levels. OMC-X2E Ziricote Special Also new to the X Series is the OMC-X2E Ziricote Special, offering the comfort of a 000 body with a 25.4" scale length for greater projection and sustain. Its cutaway design allows easy upper fret access, and like its Grand Performance sibling, it features a solid sapele top, ziricote-patterned HPL back and sides, and Martin E1 electronics with onboard tuning. This versatile model is ideal for fingerstyle players, singer-songwriters, and anyone looking for rich tone in a sleek, stage-ready package. SC-10E Spruce Rounding out this launch is the SC-10E Spruce, a new addition to Martin's Road Series that brings the revolutionary SC body shape to even more players. With its patented Sure Align® neck system and Low Profile Velocity neck, it offers unmatched comfort and unrestricted access to every fret. The solid spruce top paired with solid sapele back and sides creates a balanced, dynamic voice that excels in any genre. Finished with Martin E1 electronics and a built-in tuner, this is a modern acoustic-electric built for the stage, studio, or wherever the music takes you. For more information on these and other models from Martin, visit ABOUT C. F. MARTIN & CO. C. F. Martin & Co. has been making the finest handcrafted acoustic guitars for nearly two hundred years. For some of the biggest names and the most revered musical legends across every genre and every decade. And we've been doing it with pure artistic passion, a deep love for all things music, and an unwavering commitment to our community and the environment. But most importantly, we're still doing it... for you. For current and future generations of pioneers, rebels, and dreamers. For the beginners, the pros, and everyone in between. We believe music is an unstoppable force. It raises us up. Tells our truths. Gets us on our feet. Expresses our deepest heartaches. And our greatest joys. So, we'll continue to make the very best acoustic instruments and strings for as long as there are people like you who love music and love making it. We want to be there to help you tell your story. To help you share your music with the world. To help unleash the artist within. We're ready for the next two hundred years. Want to come with us? Visit View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE C.F. Martin & Co.
India Today
04-07-2025
- Business
- India Today
From tradition to trend: How India's classics are getting a modern edge
India has long had a deep affinity for brown spirits, particularly whisky. It's a drink steeped in culture and ritual, present at weddings, family gatherings, and celebratory toasts. But in recent years, the country's drinking habits have begun to evolve, nudging the once-whiskey-dominated scene into newer, lighter Today spoke with Vikram Damodaran, Chief Innovation Officer, at Diageo India, to understand what's driving this transformation. He points to shifts in consumer preferences, occasion-based drinking, and a growing desire for customisation and cleaner options—all contributing to a new kind of drinking consumers—particularly those between the ages of 25 and 34—are approaching alcohol differently from the generations before them. They're not necessarily drinking more, but drinking with more intention. Health awareness, global exposure, and rising disposable income are influencing the move from mass-market choices to more refined, experience-led ones. This age group is increasingly drawn to spirits that feel lighter and more versatile. 'We're seeing a clear shift in behaviour where consumers are trading volume for value,' says Damodaran. 'They want options that offer flexibility, mixability, and align with their lifestyle.'White spirits such as vodka, gin, white rum, and even tequila are finding favour amongst urban consumers looking for lower-calorie, low-sugar drinks that also lend themselves to creativity. With their neutral or botanical profiles, these spirits work well with herbs, fruits, tonics, and spices, allowing users to customise their labels are responding with X Series illustrates this well - introducing vodka, gin, citron rum and dark rum variations to complement its whisky legacy, aimed squarely at cocktail context in which people drink has changed dramatically. Rather than being reserved for large social functions, alcohol is now part of smaller, more personalised moments—whether it's a quiet night in, a virtual hangout, or an afternoon micro-occasions have given rise to a more mindful style of consumption, where mood and setting dictate the pour. Spirits that are easy to adapt—served neat, with mixers, or in a cocktail—have naturally gained popularity in this AND AESTHETICS INFLUENCING BUYING BEHAVIOURPackaging and presentation also matter more than ever. Sleek bottle designs, minimalistic labelling, and premium aesthetics are influencing what consumers pick up off the shelf. It's no longer just about what's inside the bottle—appearance plays a role in expressing identity and taste.'There's a growing demand for products that not only taste good but also reflect personal style,' says Damodaran. 'Design has become an unspoken language between the brand and the consumer.'TRADITION ISN'T BEING REPLACED—IT BEING REDEFINEDThis transition doesn't mean that brown spirits are disappearing from Indian bar shelves. Instead, there's a growing coexistence—where classic choices are being complemented by new ones, and rituals are being updated with modern many ways, the shift reflects broader social changes: a generation open to experimentation, conscious of wellness, and more focused on quality over quantity.A CULTURE IN MOTIONIndia's alcohol landscape is becoming more diverse, inclusive, and experiential. The focus is no longer just on legacy but on how that legacy adapts to contemporary lifestyles. From clean labels to curated drinking moments, the country is embracing a wider spectrum of spirits and evolution marks more than just a passing trend—it signals a long-term transformation in how India thinks about and interacts with alcohol. And as preferences continue to evolve, so too will the offerings, rituals, and meanings we attach to the drinks we share.- Ends
Gizmodo
26-06-2025
- Gizmodo
This Sony Portable Speaker Is Practically Free at 56% Off for Early Prime Day, Stock Is Running Out
There's something special about the right soundtrack playing at just the right moment. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, heading to the beach, or just want to fill your space with music that moves you, a good portable speaker makes all the difference. Of course, finding one that delivers powerful, immersive sound without taking up a ton of space or costing a small fortune can be tricky. That's where Sony's SRS-XE300 X-Series Bluetooth speaker comes in. See at Amazon Head to Amazon to get the Sony SRS-XE300 X-Series Wireless Portable Bluetooth Speaker for $88 (-56%), down from its usual price of $200. That means you can get this speaker for less than the price of eating a fancier takeout dinner a few times a week. But this speaker will give you more mileage than just grabbing some food instead of cooking. Sony is already a trusted name in audio, and the SRS-XE300 lives up to that reputation with a mix of smart design, durable construction, and impressive audio clarity. It's designed to be super portable without sacrificing sound. It also features Sony's Line-Shape Diffuser, which spreads sound more evenly across a space, allowing you and your friends to enjoy consistent audio quality no matter where you're standing. And with dual passive radiators, the bass response holds its own, even outdoors or in larger rooms. It's a surprisingly full, rich sound experience from a small speaker. Plus, this speaker is IP67 rated, which means it's waterproof, dustproof, and shockproof. You can take it to the beach, by the pool, or on a hike without having to worry about it somehow getting damaged. The battery life is also a standout feature, with up to 24 hours of playback on a single charge means you're covered for a full day of listening, and quick charging gives you hours of use after just a brief plug-in. So even if you're short on time and you want to listen to your speaker, it won't take too long to juice back up so you can start listening again. Controls are easy to understand, and Bluetooth connectivity is solid. It even supports stereo pairing if you want to connect a second speaker for a bigger soundstage. It's already good at its usual price. But when you can get it for less than $90, that makes it an even better portable speaker that you can and should be adding to your tech stack. See at Amazon
