Category: Automotive

  • Aston Martin unveils the DBX S: A high-performance luxury SUV with enhanced power and design

    Aston Martin unveils the DBX S: A high-performance luxury SUV with enhanced power and design

    Aston Martin has unveiled the DBX S, the latest member of its range, with a performance-oriented SUV taking center stage in luxury motoring. An extension of the dynamic charm of the DBX707, the DBX S integrates cutting-edge engine technology, improved performance aspects, and an even more assertive look. Evidently, this latest flagship SUV offers an exciting drive experience, with increased power, less weight, and advanced design features, making it the best bet in the luxury SUV category.

    A legacy of performance

    The DBX S continues Aston Martin’s decades-long convention of applying the ‘S’ designation to denote high-performance derivatives of its cars. Nevertheless, it’s the initial car to wear the ‘S’ badge was the legendary Vanquish S, which premiered at the 2004 Paris Motor Show. With this new version, Aston Martin shows that lighter, more potent variants are still at the center of its production strategy, giving enthusiasts an exhilarating driving experience without compromising luxury.

    Aston Martin CEO Adrian Hallmark said, “The introduction of DBX S not only reaffirms our commitment to producing the most exciting, rewarding, and beautiful cars, but it also sends a powerful statement of intent about our ambitions for the Aston Martin brand.”

    Upgraded engine and enhanced performance

    At the heart of the DBX S is a revised version of Aston Martin’s 4.0-Litre Twin-Turbo V8 engine. The engine takes advantage of turbocharging technology from the forthcoming Valhalla supercar, such as increased compressor wheels and internal refinements, to deliver a 20PS power boost, taking the total output to 727PS. Eventually, this performance enhancement allows the DBX S to reach 0-62mph in only 3.3 seconds, with a top speed of 193 mph (310.6 km/h), preserving the model’s outstanding performance reputation.

    The DBX S also includes an updated exhaust system that enhances the characteristic V8 sound of the engine, introducing even more character to the drive. The pioneering 9-speed ‘wet clutch’ transmission, which sends torque to the front and rear wheels, also provides an unparalleled driving experience, with better acceleration and more forceful downshifts in sporty driving modes.

    Weight reduction and advanced materials

    To emphasize performance, the DBX S sheds considerable weight using light materials and smart design choices. Moreover, the available carbon fiber roof, the biggest such component ever to be installed on an Aston Martin, saves 18 kg and reduces the car’s center of gravity for enhanced stability and agility. For the first time ever, Aston Martin provides magnesium wheels as an option, which reduces a further 19 kg of unsprung mass, improving ride comfort and steering accuracy. Together, these materials make the DBX S lighter and more agile, making it the superior car for any road.

    Aesthetic and functional design enhancements

    The DBX S boasts some visual touches that echo its dynamic prowess. The front sports a clean black vaned grille, with the side sills featuring upturned air splitters for maximum airflow. Whereas, the rear of the car is characterized by stacked quad exhausts, complementing the car’s aggressive stance. Optional carbon fiber items, such as the rear bumper and diffuser, shed vehicle mass while adding to the SUV’s sophisticated look.

    The interior of the S version is equally impressive, featuring a bespoke ‘S’ theme in the herringbone pattern on the seats and headlining. Across the cabin, premium Alcantara and half-aniline leather has been used to create the perfect balance of luxury and sportiness. The DBX S is also outfitted with Aston Martin’s in-house designed infotainment system and a high-performance 800w 14-speaker sound system, an optional 1,600W Bowers & Wilkins system being available for serious audiophiles that want world-class sound.

    The future of Aston Martin’s SUV lineup

    The DBX S is the new signature lineup of Aston Martin SUVs, combining state-of-the-art technology with the marque’s classic style and performance. With both its powertrain and design having been upgraded, it will rewrite the rulebook on high-performance luxury SUVs. Available for order now, deliveries of the DBX S will commence in Q4 2025 and signal the beginning of a new era in Aston Martin’s illustrious history.

  • 2025 Royal Enfield Hunter 350 launched in India starting at ₹1.5 lakh – Full variant breakdown

    2025 Royal Enfield Hunter 350 launched in India starting at ₹1.5 lakh – Full variant breakdown

    Royal Enfield has introduced the 2025 Hunter 350 in India with a variety of notable upgrades to enhance rider comfort, ride quality, and technology. Priced from ₹1.5 lakh (ex-showroom) at launch, the new model continues to be affordable while fixing most of the last generation’s ills. One of the company’s top-selling models, the Hunter 350’s new version remains true to its city-friendly nature while progressing in significant ways.

    Key mechanical and ride enhancements

    The biggest update to the 2025 Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is its redesigned rear suspension system. The new system features progressive springs that eventually replace the old fixed-rate springs, providing greater comfort and stability across different road surfaces. In addition, Royal Enfield has enhanced the seat foam density to offer a softer riding experience and moved the handlebar closer to the rider for a more relaxed rider triangle.

    Moreover, the ground clearance has risen by 10 mm, now being 160 mm, due to a slight exhaust re-routing. These are likely to greatly improve day-to-day usability without detracting from the motorcycle’s agility.

    Royal Enfield has introduced a slip-and-assist clutch on the 2025 Hunter 350, the first time this technology appears on a 350cc model, to deliver smoother gear changes and reduce clutch lever effort, especially in stop-and-go city traffic.

    Enhanced technology features

    Technology receives a decent shot in the arm on the 2025 Hunter 350. The bike now boasts an LED headlamp, like that on other contemporary Royal Enfield offerings, that provides enhanced lighting and improved style. The Tripper Navigation pod, which was optional earlier, now comes as standard across all models with turn-by-turn navigation coupled with the rider’s smartphone.

    Charging requirements are met with the addition of a USB Type-C port on the top trims, while the base trim has a USB Type-A port. This little but important upgrade makes the bike more practical for daily use.

    Design and variant updates

    In terms of design, the 2025 Hunter 350 receives a subtle facelift with fresh color choices being added across variants. The Dapper (mid) variant now features a new Rio White hue, and the range-topping Rebel variant features London Red and Tokyo Black to match its aggressive styling. These new colors bring a modern touch while keeping the bike’s retro-modern character intact.

    The variant-wise pricing in India is as follows (ex-showroom):

    • Factory Black (Base Trim): ₹1,49,900
    • Rio White, Dapper Grey (Mid-Trim): ₹1,76,750
    • London Red, Tokyo Black, Rebel Blue (Top Trim): ₹1,81,750

    Engine and chassis remain unchanged

    Mechanically, the 2025 Hunter 350 is the same as the previous model. It still employs the tried-and-tested 349cc air-cooled, single-cylinder motor delivering 20.2 horsepower and 27 Nm of torque. The motor comes paired with a 5-speed transmission and a twin-downtube spine frame.

    Braking is handled by a 300 mm front disc and a 270 mm rear disc, dual-channel ABS on all trims. The bike uses 17-inch alloy wheels (spoked wheels on the lowest Indian trim), with 110/70 front and 140/70 rear tubeless tires.

    2025 Royal Enfield Hunter 350 specifications: Top/Mid vs. Base variant

    CategorySpecificationTop & Mid-VariantsBase Variant
    EngineTypeSingle Cylinder, 4-Stroke, Air-Oil CooledSame as Top/Mid
    Displacement349ccSame as Top/Mid
    Bore x Stroke72 mm x 85.8 mmSame as Top/Mid
    Compression Ratio9.5 : 1Same as Top/Mid
    Maximum Power20.2 bhp @ 6100 rpm (14.87 kW)Same as Top/Mid
    Maximum Torque27 Nm @ 4000 rpmSame as Top/Mid
    Ignition SystemElectronic Fuel Injection (EFI) (Conti)Same as Top/Mid
    ClutchWet, Multi-PlateSame as Top/Mid
    Gearbox5-Speed Constant MeshSame as Top/Mid
    LubricationWet Sump, Forced LubricationSame as Top/Mid
    Engine OilSAE 15W50 API SL, JASO MA2, Semi-SyntheticSame as Top/Mid
    Air CleanerPaper ElementSame as Top/Mid
    Engine StartElectricSame as Top/Mid
    Chassis & SuspensionChassis TypeTwin Downtube Spine FrameSame as Top/Mid
    Front SuspensionTelescopic, 41 mm ForksSame as Top/Mid
    Rear SuspensionTwin Shock Absorbers with 6-Step Adjustable PreloadSame as Top/Mid
    DimensionsWheelbase1370 mmSame as Top/Mid
    Ground Clearance160 mmSame as Top/Mid
    Length2055 mmSame as Top/Mid
    Width810 mm (without mirrors)Same as Top/Mid
    Height1070 mm (without mirrors)Same as Top/Mid
    Seat Height790 mmSame as Top/Mid
    Kerb Weight181 kg (with 90% fuel & oil)Same as Top/Mid
    Fuel Tank Capacity13 litresSame as Top/Mid
    Brakes & TyresFront Tyre110/70–17” 54P, Alloy, Tubeless100/80–17” 52P, Spoke, Tube Type
    Rear Tyre140/70–17” 66P, Alloy, Tubeless120/80–17” 61P, Spoke, Tube Type
    Front Brake300 mm Disc, Twin-Piston Floating CaliperSame as Top/Mid
    Rear Brake270 mm Disc, Single-Piston Floating Caliper153 mm Drum, Single Lead Internal Expanding
    ABSDual-Channel ABSSingle-Channel ABS
    ElectricalsElectrical System12 Volt — DCSame as Top/Mid
    Battery12V, 8Ah VRLA (Maintenance Free)Same as Top/Mid
    HeadlampLED: 12V, 16.5W/11W (with FPL 12V, 1.65W)Halogen: 12V HS1 — 35/35W
    Tail LampLED: 13.5V, 0.5W/4.8WBulb: 12V, 21/5W
    Turn Signal Lamp12V, 10W × 2 pairs (Front & Rear)Same as Top/Mid
    Instrument ClusterDigi-Analog (KMPH, Single Scale)Same as Top/Mid
    USB ChargerType-C Fast ChargingType-C Port (No fast charging mentioned)

    Author’s remarks

    The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 in 2025 is not only a facelift but includes significant changes that respond to prior user feedback along with improved ride comfort, ease of use, and technology integration. With competitive pricing and more features, the new Hunter 350 solidifies its position as one of the most affordable and desirable motorcycles by Royal Enfield.

  • Porsche launches 911 Spirit 70 app for customization experience on Apple Vision Pro

    Porsche launches 911 Spirit 70 app for customization experience on Apple Vision Pro

    Porsche is bringing a unique, immersive experience to fans of its iconic 911 model with the release of a new app for the Apple Vision Pro. Designed to coincide with the launch of the Porsche 911 Spirit 70, the app lets users explore the automotive world of the 1970s. It allows them to design and customize their own version of the Porsche 911 Spirit 70 in rich detail.

    A journey back to the 1970s

    he Porsche 911 Spirit 70 app is designed to transport users back to the heart of the 1970s. This decade was pivotal for both automotive design and Porsche’s history. With this app, Porsche fans can dive deep into the design elements that made the app special.

    Boris Apenbrink, Director of Exclusive Manufaktur Limited Series & Options at Porsche, stated, “With the Porsche’s 911 Spirit 70 app for the Apple Vision Pro, we want to give our customers and fans a journey back to the 1970s. This decade was characterized by colors, materials, and many Porsche successes that continue to shape our heritage today.”

    Customization features and interactive tutorials

    The app offers an interactive, hands-on experience for users. It guides them through the process of customizing their vehicle step by step. The app allows users to experiment with over ten iconic Porsche vehicle colors from the ’70s. It also offers detailed descriptions and historical insights that enhance the customization process. Users can also explore unique decorative stripes, distinctive seating patterns, and historic race numbers that further personalize the car.

    Lars Krämer, Manager of Innovations at Porsche, emphasized the importance of the app in bringing Porsche’s legacy to life: “With this app, our customers gain deep insights into the creation process of the iconic designs of the decade and can digitally customize their dream vehicle.”

    Innovative technology for a seamless experience

    Leveraging the spatial computing capabilities of the Apple Vision Pro, the app uses advanced 3D rendering technology. This projects high-quality representations of colors and materials onto a digital vehicle model in real time. This allows users to view their customizations from every angle and visualize their dream car as it would appear in the real world.

    The app also includes interactive tutorials that help users optimize their personalization journey, ensuring that both newcomers and seasoned Porsche enthusiasts can make the most of the customization experience.

    Additional personalization options

    Once the design is complete, users have the option to further personalize their 911 Spirit 70 in the Car Configurator. Alternatively, they can create an Apple Wallet Pass with detailed information about their customized vehicle.

    Availability of Porsche 911 Spirit 70 app

    The Porsche 911 Spirit 70 application will be available for free in the Apple App Store for the Apple Vision Pro, coinciding with the release of the Porsche 911 Spirit 70. This collaboration brings together Porsche’s iconic heritage and the latest advancements in spatial computing.