Automobile – Dec 2017

Share

Jaguar XF-S

Possessing a luxury car is often more about making a statement rather than utility. If buying or upgrading to a premium car is on cue, then the Jaguar XF S is one to be considered. An unparalleled combination of substance and style, the XF S is powered by a 3.0-litre supercharged V6 engine that produces 380 hp, delivering high performance levels and torque at all engine speeds. The powerful engine can rocket the XF S from 0-60mph in 5 seconds. Thanks to its impeccable suspension systems, and exemplary ride quality from Adaptive Dynamics with Configurable Dynamics, you can enjoy precision driving.

The XF S comes with an all-wheel drive, upgraded infotainment system, head-up display, and a group of driver- assistance technologies that keeps the chances of collision at bay. To match its performance, the S body styling of the XF S is complemented with 20-inch alloy wheels, red brake calipers, twin exhausts, and a sleek rear spoiler. Designed after the F-TYPE and the flagship sedan version, the XF S sets itself apart with its sleek exterior, comfortable interior, large rear-seat room, and commendable boot capacity. Tastefully designed and ingeniously engineered, the Jaguar XF S makes your drive smooth and comfortable, offering luxury straight-up British style.

INR 70.14 lakh (ex-showroom price, New Delhi)

Mercedes AMG C-43

The latest Mercedes-AMG C43 is every petrolhead’s wish come true, motoring pleasure and sportiness combined. Powered by an AMG-enhanced 3.0-litre twin turbo V6 Petrol engine and the new nine-speed 9G-TRONIC gearbox that comes at a sonorous 270Kw (362bhp at 5500-6000rpm) and a torque of 520Nm (at 2000-4200rpm), the engine and transmission are unmistakable. The Mercedes-AMG C43 can go from 0-60mph in 4.6 seconds. AMG’s sharp, electrically assisted steering rack is direct and precise. The Dynamic Select feature in the centre console lets the driver choose among efficient (Eco), comfortable (Comfort), sporty (Sport), particularly sporty (Sport+), and their own defined style (Individual). Compared to the C63 model, the C43 has a 1.5 inch wider front track and an improved suspension geometry. It comes with the standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive that makes it less harder in corners than the rear drive C63. The C43 also comes with the AMG ride control feature, which is a sports suspensions setup with AMG developed springs and a three-stage variable damper. Another exciting feature is the new sports exhaust system that produces a highly emotive sound, making the drive powerfully increasing and rich, particularly when accelerating. The interior on the Mercedes-AMG C43 is beautifully crafted, with supportive sport seats and a chunky steering wheel. It comes with optional red accents on the door panels and aluminium accents on the dashboard, giving it a more sporty look and feel as compared to other AMG cars.

The digital instrument panel also sports the classic AMG style, with the chequered flag design. On the exterior, the C43 comes with dynamic LED headlamps with integrated Daytime Running Lamps, AMG body styling, an ultra-fine spoiler lip in the bootlid, and larger AMG-spec wheels (18-inch AG 5-spoke light alloy wheels), which gives the outside a more aggressive stance. It gets larger air intakes on the front bumper, and apart from the typical quad exhaust setup expected from all AMG vehicles, the rear bumper also gets an inbuilt diffuser. The C43’s cool blend of performance and refinement means that this beast is without a doubt, a pleasure to own and an enjoyable ride.

INR 74.35 lakh

DUCATI 1199 Panigale

The Ducati 1199 Panigale is an immensely competent machine capable of conquering the tarmac with unbelievable readiness. Ducati superbikes always combine brilliant engineering, style, and stunning performance. It is no wonder they make one of the world’s most coveted motorcycles. The 1199 Panigale inherits the Ducati R model’s 3-level ABS, race-inspired seat material, and additional hazard light function. The model continues standard configuration with Marzocchi front forks and Sachs rear suspension unit. Its chassis features a monocoque structure with a Superquadro engine which produces 195bhp power and 132Nm torque. The liquid-cooled Superquadro is the most powerful twin-cylinder engine ever, and adds to the flawless performance of the bike. The monocoque frame gets semi-floating Brembo discs (330mm) on the front and a 245mm disc on the back. Its engine calibration optimally combines high performance delivery with regular operation.

The 1199 Panigale’s oil bath clutch is another exciting feature that improves torque transmission and comfort for the rider. It is styled inside out with extreme precision, and the cutting-edge electronics unleash power and refine riding precision. The Ducati Superbike 1199 Panigale is undoubtedly one of the best sports bikes to look out for.

INR 12.35 lakh (excluding tax)