2024 autoX Awards: Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Performance,
2024 autoX Awards: Jeep Wrangler The Rubicon is a huge and versatile machine that's a beast in its own right. It’s big, chunky, and makes no secret of its intended purpose—to take you to places where even roads no longer exist. 2024 autoX Awards: If there's one thing that stands out about the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, it's that it's a pretty powerful-looking machine. The Rubicon version is especially equipped with features and aids designed to ensure that it handles all terrains with ease and effortlessly conquers even the most challenging environments. Unfortunately, a Formula 1 track is not one of these terrains, but we'll get to that later. At first glance, it's easy to confuse the Rubicon with the very similar-looking Thar - blame Mahindra's design team for that. But make no mistake, the Wrangler Rubicon is a massive, purpose-looking machine—a beast in its own right. It’s big, chunky, and makes no secret of its intended purpose—to take you to…
2024 autoX Awards: Kia EV9 Performance, Quality and Value
2024 autoX Awards: If you had to describe the Kia EV9 in one word, it would probably be "huge," or maybe "imposing." Well, you see, the EV9 has an undeniable presence on the road with its chunky side styling, five-metre length and flat front. Large wheels, dramatic digital headlights and a spacious greenhouse make it impossible to mistake the EV9 for any other vehicle on the road. As Kia's flagship model in the Indian market, the real eye-catcher is the interior. The EV9's interior features exquisite finishes and a modern, clean layout, complemented by multiple digital screens that give the interior a high-tech feel. This is further enhanced by its Level 2 ADAS capabilities, which coupled with 10 airbags and passive safety features make it truly class-leading. Another thing that impressed the jury was the EV9's interior space and its ultra-comfortable premium leatherette seats. I have to admit that when I first took the EV9 to the track, my expectations…
Skoda Octavia vRS review: Rocket returns
I have fond memories of the Octavia vRS, the reason being that my best friend bought one in 2003, when it was one of the few affordable high-performance cars you could buy. For a young lad barely out of his teenage years, this 150bhp turbocharged monster, beefy suspension, big wheels and great handling was a revelation and a learning experience on how to drive a fast car. Well, fast forward to a few years ago, I got behind the wheel of the new Skoda Octavia vRS – which has just made its return to the Indian market – and once again, it was an outstanding experience, powerful engine, superb handling and a roaring sound – almost a feeling of déjà vu. Recently I was in the Czech Republic to get a glimpse of Skoda’s future direction in India, and they offered to let us drive the Octavia vRS again, and naturally I jumped at the opportunity. Skoda Octavia vRS review:…
Honda Elevate long-term review, August 2024 report
For Honda fans in India, the Elevate is one of the company’s much-awaited new products. Honestly, Honda did take too long to join the SUV bandwagon, but then again, the Japanese company always does a very thorough research before developing a new product or entering a new segment. Despite the delay, the Elevate has proven to be a hit, boosting the company’s sales in India and in the export market. Our long-term Elevate was finished in a striking Phoenix Orange color with a contrasting black roof, ensuring excellent road presence. The interior is finished in a nice brown, and I particularly appreciated the streamlined, simple dashboard layout. Although I drove the Elevate when it debuted, spending more time with the car would provide a better understanding of how it performs in a variety of conditions, allowing for a more comprehensive assessment of its strengths and weaknesses. My first impression is that the Elevate is a solid product. It offers a…