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India Today
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- India Today
Spirits: The Patrón saint of indulgence
(NOTE: This article was originally published in the India Today Spice issue dated June 2025)At the heart of the celebration were two icons—Patron and Karan Aujla—coming together to launch Patron El Alto, a super-premium tequila crafted in Hacienda Patron which is is located in the municipality of Atotonilco el Alto in the Mexican state of Jalisco. Tradition, craftsmanship, and contemporary cool came alive at Bastian on Top, the swanky roof-top lounge that hosted this magnificent dapper in black, brought his magnetism and electric energy to the stage. His performance was a spectacle—Wavy, On Top 2, and the mega-hit Tauba Tauba had the crowd dancing nonstop. Sleek bars lined with Patron Silver, Reposado, and Anejo—its classic variants—set the tone, while silver-accented agave leaf installations evoked the brand's Mexican torchlights, and glowing wristbands fired up Aujla's pan-Indian and global fanbase red hot. Just six months after his last sold-out concert in the city, the Punjabi music icon had returned with an even bigger bang. The Patron El Alto, poured in teal coloured flutes advertisementAt 28, Aujla has achieved what few have—his music is rooted in raw emotion, his global footprint has seen more than 48 crore views for his song Tauba Tauba, a collaboration with Vicky Kaushal which went viral last year. His roster of upcoming concerts across seven countries reflects just how widely his music resonates with younger audiences. In fact, in May this year, his laidback hit hip-hop number Courtside debuted on Billboard Canadian Hot has painstakingly set his own rules. The songwriter- singer's appeal extends far beyond India with global audiences drawn to his voice, his style and his soulful words. Described by Jassie Gill, in an earlier interview, as a 'prolific writer', Aujla's poetry probably comes from pain; he lost his parents when he was a young boy, and turned to songwriting, eventually breaking out with a hit Range in 2014 alongside Gill. Aujla effortlessly blends Punjabi music with hip-hop and rap beats, creating a sound that is unique and appealing, which has propelled him to global acclaim. His sold-out concerts have surpassed ticket sales of big international acts. Artists performing to the foot-tapping music played by the DJ Patron cocktails poured over artisanal branded ice cube It's no surprise that the Punjabi-Canadian singer-musician was handpicked by Patron as its global ambassador. 'At Patron, we are relentless in our pursuit of excellence—crafting tequila with an uncompromising commitment to quality, tradition, and innovation. Karan Aujla's journey—from breaking barriers in the music industry to becoming a global icon—embodies the same ambition and pioneering spirit that defines Patron El Alto. This collaboration is a celebration of those who push boundaries, challenge conventions, and continuously strive for greater heights,' says Roberto Ramirez-Laverde, Global Senior Vice President, Patron has long collaborated with musicians and creators whose work is path-breaking and aspirational. In the past, the brand has partnered with Grammy Award-winner Michelle Zauner, artist Jessie Reyez and supported the More Than Tequila Music Series. Aujla is the new popular musical name that promises to take the brand to new big-market audiences in India and the Asian, Middle East and African latest launch, the El Alto is a super-premium tequila crafted in the Mexican highlands of Jalisco and is a meticulous blend of Reposado, Anejo, and Extra Anejo tequilas. It is distilled from hand-harvested 100 per cent Weber Blue agave grown in Jalisco and handmade in small batches using only three ingredients—agave, water, and yeast. Rich, smooth, and luxurious, it symbolises the soul of modern tequila global partnership with Aujla is emblematic of Patron's ethos—rooted in heritage but global in reach and innovation. The partnership between the two creative brands is a powerful statement. Both embody bold ambition, artistic precision with a global appeal that eschews boundaries. El Alto, crafted in the Mexican highlands and celebrated across the globe, redefines luxury tequila. Aujla, with his fusion of Punjabi rhythm and global sound, has transformed music for an entire generation, and is one of the most influential voices in the industry today. Together, they represent a collusion of craftsmanship, creativity, and charisma. Karan Aujla steps into the world of handcrafted luxury tequila at the Patron hacienda in Mexico The Patron El Alto launch in Mumbai was sheer spectacle as the El Alto bottle was unveiled and Aujla's high-energy chartbusters kept the spirits high and the room grooving to the beats of Fireball, Ishq, Magic In The Air and other dance tracks spun by a young DJ, until Aujla took to the stage. Amid a rousing welcome, the rapper-singer belted out chartbusters such as Wavy, On Top 2, and Tauba Tauba and his magnetic stage presence simply raised the bar. Every detail about the evening spoke of tasteful extravagance. The venue shimmered in a luxe palette of teal and silver, a visual nod to the distinctive El Alto the crowning glory was reserved for the evening's finale: the Patron El Alto, poured into elegant teal-hued flutes added a melodic rhythm to Aujla's pulsating music. The singer, whose creative journey recently took him into the heart of Jalisco's agave fields as Patron's global partner, mirrored the brand's sentiment. 'Success isn't instant; it's built over years of dedication, perseverance, and passion. That's why Patron speaks to me. It's about staying true to your craft as you play by your own rules. I'm proud to collaborate with a brand that embodies this pursuit of excellence and is part of truly unforgettable moments.'Once a party-ender gulped down with salt and a wedge of lemon, tequila is now the soul of an evening, inspiring innovative cocktails or sipped neat on artisanal ice. The charm of Patron El Alto lies in its exclusivity. The hand-harvested agave is distilled in traditional processes and each bottle is inspected and individually labelled and Alto's India launch at duty free stores in Mumbai and Delhi comes during the peak travel months of international travel. As the music finally winds down, the spirited evening prepares for another tequila to India Today Magazine- Ends
India Today
10-06-2025
- Entertainment
- India Today
Giving whisky cocktails a summer twist
(NOTE: This article was originally published in the India Today Spice issue dated May 2025 )Whisky in summer? At first glance, it might sound like a one night stand, but it's turning out to be an affair to remember. Step into any bar this season, and you'll find that the rules have changed. No longer confined to the clink of winter ice or the comfort of leather armchairs, whisky is being shaken, stirred, and crafted into something brighter, bolder, and undeniably season's summer cocktail menu is an ode to reinvention. Crafted with care, intuition, and a dash of playful rebellion, each cocktail on this list embraces whisky's rich soul while giving it space to breathe and surprise. Think tropical fruits, garden herbs, crisp citrus, and even savoury twists—all curated to complement the whisky's ITC Maurya, whisky takes a fresh turn—creative, unexpected, and still rooted in solid craft. The Throughway is a fine example—bold yet balanced, it layers whisky with orange marmalade, citrus, falernum, and a hint of spice. It is rich in flavour like a well-told story. Then there's Oliviya, the kind of drink that makes you do a double-take. Bourbon meets olive brine, sweet and sour, and ginger ale—an unlikely mix that somehow works beautifully. It's savory, intriguing and just the right amount of From left to right: Bay of Kaffir, Whisky Orchard Cocktail, Raspberry Sour, The Throughaway, and the Passion Blossom Crafted with care, intuition, and a dash of playful rebellion, each cocktail on this list embraces whisky's rich soul while giving it space to breathe, surprise and delight—shaken, stirred and crafted into something brighter, bolder, and undeniably summery. For those who like their cocktails with a bit of fire, The Bout goes all in. Smoky whisky, honey, and grapefruit come together in a drink that's unapologetically bold and full of character. And if you're after something vibrant and layered. Summer Ember is your glass of sunshine—whisky meets passion fruit, lime, orange, and a surprising note of bell pepper. It's juicy, zesty, and just unpredictable enough to keep things the Eastern Breeze served at The Leela Palace Hotel, which has bourbon whisky as its base. This drink adds peach syrup, lime juice, and a generous splash of champagne. Served in a tulip glass with a twist of orange, it's everything you want on a languid summer afternoon—light, sparkling, and just a little there's Bay of Kaffir, where Scotch whisky is paired with pineapple juice and passion fruit syrup, shaken with lime, and finished with a fragrant kaffir lime leaf. It's tropical, textured, and beautifully balanced—a sip of seaside in a Sour leans into classic cocktail craftsmanship but with a juicy, berry-forward twist. With fresh lemon juice, raspberry syrup, and a silky egg white foam, this is one of those cocktails that feels both familiar and completely you prefer your whisky with a little more depth, Passion Blossom is your go-to cocktail. It mixes pomegranate juice and passion fruit syrup with a whisky base, delivering a sweet-tart profile that plays beautifully against the warmth of the spirit. The garnish of fresh pomegranate seeds adds a visual sparkle and a burst of course, no whisky-forward menu feels complete without a nod to the modern icons. The Laphroaig Penicillin has a smoky, honeyed appearance. Ginger-honey syrup and lemon juice balance the bold peat of Laphroaig for a drink that feels both restorative and refreshing. And then there's the Whisky Paloma, reimagined from its agave roots. Grapefruit soda, lime, and a touch of agave bring whisky into bright, fizzy territory—surprising in the best The bout Joining this vibrant summer whisky renaissance is The Claridges, New Delhi, with cocktails that speak of craft, freshness, and elegant restraint. Their Sunlit Sour celebrates sunset in a glass—blending peaty whisky, Campari, citrus, and raspberries, shaken with egg white for a soft, velvety texture. It's tart, smoky, and just sweet enough, topped with a dehydrated strawberry that hints at its delicate refreshing is Whisky Orchard, a garden-inspired cocktail that marries bourbon with citrus juice, cucumber, and honey cordial. Muddled with garden herbs and finished with bitters, it's shaken and served over clear ice in a rock you're lounging in linen, chasing the sunset, or simply looking to elevate your evening, these cocktails offer a new way to meet an old friend. This summer, whisky doesn't smoulder—it to India Today Magazine
India Today
05-05-2025
- Automotive
- India Today
Mercedes Maybach: Monogrammed mastery
(NOTE: This article was originally published in the India Today Spice issue dated April 2025)In a stately setting in Udaipur, as the black and white, open-top, two-seater SL 680 Monogram Series rolled out, in the presence of global media, Mercedes-Maybach declared that only three units of the car had been allotted to the Indian market. At a hefty `4.2 crore price tag, it is quite likely that these three units are the season's most coveted pieces. At India Today Spice, the Maybach models that we've previously driven have conclusively been passenger cars. But this two-seater is one hundred per cent a driver's the bat, I've always been a fan of the upright bonnet star and this model features it, complimenting the chrome fin, while the double-scoop silhouette behind the seats gives it a striking, aerodynamic the Maybach motif printed all over the bonnet, it appears that Maybach's designers are taking a slightly different turn from their otherwise subtly placed brand logos in other models. Although, the Maybach motif that illuminates as well as the rose gold headlights do add a luxe touch to the overall appearance. The soft top too bears the Maybach logo, subtly imprinted in anthracite. Once inside, I love what the carmaker is calling the White Ambience, the two-tone black and white design leitmotif that runs through the car. I'd like to use the word ensconced, to describe the feeling of sitting on the handcrafted, white Nappa leather seats with a subtle Maybach motif. The cabin with its cheery blend of white and silver trims is impressive, as is the sporty digital instrument cluster that looms in front of you as a gentle reminder of the car's capabilities. Also, included is an adjustable centre display, which features the manufacturer's trusty MBUX user There's certainly a lot of sporty heft under the hood, with a 4.0 litre V8 biturbo engine, which pumps out a massive 585 bhp of power, which can take the two-seater to a top speed of 260 kmph. The claimed 0-100 kmph sprint is 4.1 seconds. To coddle the nitpicky driver even more, the car even comes with a sound-optimised exhaust system and an enhanced insulation mechanism when the roof is down. The carmaker promises a highly refined and stable drive experience under multiple conditions thanks to the rear-axle steering and an excellent suspension we may have come a long way from Maybach's emblematic Zeppelins to the SL 680 today, evolving through a slew of indulgent saloons in recent years, the head-turning effect, the commitment to bespoke craftsmanship and the philosophy of sporty driving experiences remains Rs. 4.2 crore (ex-showroom)Availability: Since March 2025Subscribe to India Today Magazine
India Today
02-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- India Today
Japan dishes out a culinary surprise
(NOTE: This article was originally published in the India Today Spice issue dated April 2025)Purists may balk at the word 'fusion', but Japanese cuisine is riding a wave of evolution, and it's caught the world by surprise. By harmoniously blending traditional Japanese elements with diverse culinary influences—from Indian spices to Peruvian zest—chefs are redefining the dining experience. Whether you're a food loyalist or a curious newbie, this is your ticket to a culinary adventure that resonates with varied cultures. Buckle up for this is dining tradition with the evolution of Japanese-inspired cuisine requires a forward-thinking mindset that honours heritage while embracing innovation. Imagine if one parent were Japanese and the other from a different culinary background—what would their table offer? The answer shapes this cuisine's identity. A chef's perspective becomes the key to bridging the gap. While at first blush, classic Japanese cuisine appears too distinct to recall any obvious resonance with others, subtle overlaps in technique or philosophy aren't such a stretch. The true art lies in finding that perfect balance, harmonising two culinary traditions to create something that is at once respectful of its roots and refreshingly cuisine for example, emerged in the late 19th century when Japanese immigrants in Peru, drawn by coastal plantations and silver mines, blended their homeland's flavours with local ingredients like aji Amarillo, quinoa, and corn. Introducing Peruvians to a diverse array of seafood, they sparked a culinary Today, Nikkei's bold fusion shines in world-class dining spots from Lima to New York and India too with hotspots such as Mumbai's Amaru and Koishii and Pune's Soy Como Soy. The newest entrant in this growing space being Soy x Neung Roi in Delhi. This is how Japanese-inspired cuisine truly shines; a taste of Japan reimagined through a broader lens. As culinary boundaries continue to blur, Japanese-inspired cuisine stands at the forefront, appealing to adventurous diners eager for a taste of the extraordinary. Explore with an open mind and a curious MEETS MASALA AT INJA Inja's Hokkaido Scallops Panta Bhat Papad and Achar Okinamasu at Inja Chef Adwait Anantwar crafts a bold symphony of Indian spices and Japanese precision, where every dish is a surprise. The dcor mirrors this fusion, blending Indian richness with minimalist Japanese touches. The Lobster Rasam Chawanmushi, a silky egg custard with butter-poached lobster and rasam masala, balances depth and delicacy, while the Alaskan King Crab Kachori with mango-furikake chutney feels both familiar and fresh. The Panch Indri Cocktail Menu promises thrilling concoctions like the Satori Hi-Ball, where each sip is a masterclass in flavour that engages all five senses. The exquisite sudachi paloma, a cocktail infused with Naga chili, exemplifies the restaurant's commitment to balance. Even classics get a clever twist—Gobhi 65 becomes a sushi roll, and Khasi curry wraps around springy India's first and only Indian Japanese The Manor Hotel, 77, NH-19, Friends Colony West, New DelhiCost: Upwards of Rs. 4,000++ for MEETS CULINARY MASTERY AT SHISEN HANTEN, IN SINGAPORE After a meticulous five-month overhaul, the Michelin-starred restaurant unveils a reimagined space and an innovative menu, and a sophisticated dining experience. A specialist in Chka Szechwan Ryori—a Japanese interpretation of Szechwan cuisine—Shisen Hanten blends fiery Chinese flavours with the finesse of Japanese culinary techniques. Chef Chen Kentaro, upholds his family's storied legacy while embracing modern culinary artistry. Kentaro blends tradition with innovation, using seasonal, premium ingredients sourced from expert producers across China, Japan, and beyond. The restaurant presents a medley of bold Szechwan flavours elevated by Japanese expertise, creating a dining experience as intricate as it is Blends Japanese-Szechwan cuisine, Singapore's sole Michelin star Chka Level 35, Hilton Singapore Orchard, 333 Orchard Road, SingaporeCost: Upwards of `15,000++ for OF LAND AND SEA AT THE TUNA & THE CRAB Nestled within Galle Fort, is a refined Japanese and seafood restaurant by Chef Dharshan Munidasa. Guided by the Japanese principle of 'washoku', the restaurant champions simplicity, honouring fresh local ingredients and meticulous techniques. Highlights include the Garlic Chilli Crab—a fusion of Sri Lankan mud crab, Italian olive oil, Japanese soy sauce, and fiery local chilli flakes—and Tuna Sashimi, sourced from Sri Lanka's exceptional tuna World's only Japanese-Sri Lankan restaurantWhere: Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct, Sri LankaCost: Upwards of `5,000++ for HARMONISE AT SZANNE Chef Daniel Calvert's expertise shines in his ability to harmonise French sophistication with Japanese artistry. With 98 per cent of ingredients sourced locally, the menu highlights seasonal treasures like Megumi Gamo, Akkeshi oysters, and Miyazaki mango, using classical French techniques. Standouts include Shanghai Hairy Crab marinated in Jura Yellow wine with Koshi-hikari rice, and Miyazaki mango served with shortbread and crme Chantilly. A carefully curated champagne selection complements each World's only Michelin-starred Japanese-French restaurantWhere: Pacific Century Place Marunouchi 1-11-1, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan 100-6277Cost: Menu Szanne Rs. 28,500 ++ for twoadvertisementContact: IZAKAYA REINVENTED AT THE STANDARD, SINGAPORE Octopus Ashi-Raw Chiba Japanese octopus tentacle House fermented chili ponzu chargrilled fish at Kaya, The Standard Singapore A sultry jewel box, Kaya reimagines the Japanese izakaya with inventive flair and thoughtful design. From Eric Tobua's whimsical terrarium at the entrance to Thai-inspired wall coverings and vibrantly hued, unstructured uniforms, every detail exudes creativity and energy. The menu transforms authentic Japanese ingredients into dishes that surprise and delight, celebrating umami with highlights like Nikujaga, Lamb & Furikake, and Kani Meshi Nabe—a savoury blend of snow crab, ikura, burnt rice, and uni crme. By night, Kaya Bar becomes a pulsating social hub, pairing innovative plates with eclectic sake and cocktails in a stylish, intimate setting. Nostalgic yet bold, it captures the artistry of Japan with modern Honours a fusion of Japanese and American 2nd Floor, The Standard, Singapore, 12 Orange Grove Road, SingaporeCost: Upwards of `5,000++ for REDEFINED, BOLDLY CRAFTED AT SOY x NEUNG ROI Miso Aubergine at Soy x Neung Ro Kimchi Chicken Anticuchos Chef Sreenivasan's Nikkei 2.0 pop-up is a culinary revelation that artfully marries the intricate subtleties of Japanese cuisine with the vibrant zest of Peru. Building on last year's success, for this edition, expect a symphony of culinary artistry, from zesty ceviche and elegant sushi to char-grilled anticuchos and hearty mains. The vibrant Nikkei Ceviche with silky Akami tuna to the enticing Nobashi Katayafi Shrimp wrapped in delicate kunafa, each dish tells a story of harmonious contrasts. The Grilled Seabass, perfectly flaky, pairs with fragrant ginger corn rice, while the umami-rich Quinoa Risotto bursts with earthy truffle notes. Pair these masterful creations with the refreshing Nikkei Mojito, a soju-pisco fusion. Save room for the dreamy Cacao Matcha—its molten chocolate centre is simply India's Only Nikkei 2.0 pop-up: Bold fusion of Japan and Radisson Blu Plaza Delhi Airport, National Highway 8,Cost: Rs. 9,998++ for +919899900993; to India Today MagazineTrending Reel
India Today
28-04-2025
- Automotive
- India Today
Asphalt aspirations: The super cars of 2025
(NOTE: This article was originally published in the India Today Spice issue April 2025)BMW X3BMW India's most important launch for this year is the X3. Unveiled at the Auto Expo 2025, the new X3 is available in petrol and diesel variants, as before. The biggest change to the X3 of course is the new design aesthetic that is going to set the tone for all new BMW cars to arrive in the future. It measures 4,755mm in length, 1,920mm in width and 1,660mm in height, while the wheelbase sits at 2,865mm. The new X3 gets a new slab-sided design, with cleaner sides, while the large kidney grille comes with illumination. The sides of the SUV are flatter than before, while the rear gets slimmer LED taillamps. BMW is offering the X3 20 xDrive with 190bhp and 310Nm and the X3 20d xDrive with 197bhp and 400Nm of torque. Inside, the cabin has been revamped and given a new minimalist theme, dominated by BMW's new lighting signature which changes colour according to drive modes. There is a free standing infotainment and a 14.9-inch driver display, both running the latest BMW software, and modern Rs. 75.80 lakh Launch: January 2025Volvo XC90 advertisement Volvo has updated its flagship SUV, the XC90. While changes compared to the older car are not major, they serve as a minor update until the brand decides to completely overhaul the SUV. The front now comes with a new mesh grille, with abstract lines, while the LED DRLs are slimmer and accompany the new LED headlamps. The bonnet has been redesigned as well, and gets a slimmer look while the bumper at the front has been revised. The major update inside the cabin is the bigger 11.2-inch infotainment, that gets Google OS, hence, works quite well while the rest of the cabin has been updated with new colours and fabrics. Power for the XC90 comes from a 2.0-litre mild-hybrid turbo-petrol motor, which makes 250bhp and 360Nm of torque, with the power sent to all four wheels. Volvo claims a 0 to 100kmph sprint time of 7.7 seconds. This new iteration of the XC90 comes with air suspension as standard, which also allows the user to lower or raise the car manually. The 2025 Volvo XC90 is priced at `1.03 crore (ex-showroom), and is only available in a single-trim Rs. 1.03 crore (ex-showroom)Launch: March 2025MG CYBERSTER JSW MG Motor India will kickstart its premium product chain, MG Select with the launch of the Cyberster electric sports convertible. The car will come to India with a 77kWh battery pack, paired to two electric motors on each axle for AWD. The two motors total 510bhp and 725Nm of torque, translating to a 0 to 100kmph sprint time of 3.2 seconds. MG claims a CLTC (China testing cycle) certified range of 580km on a single charge. It comes with a double wishbone suspension at the front and a five-link independent rear suspension, while the car itself has a perfect 50:50 front and rear weight distribution. The Cyberster takes inspiration from iconic two-seater sportscars, with a small dimension, and butterfly doors. It gets large LED headlamps, while the rear gets a full-width LED tail strip with a unique arrow Rs. 50-60 lakh (estimated)Launch: May 2025LAND ROVER DEFENDER OCTA Land Rover has launched the Defender Octa, making it the most expensive and powerful variant of the SUV on sale here. Unlike the regular Defender series, the Octa benefits from the 6D Dynamic suspension system. According to the brand, this suspension is so advanced that it almost eliminates pitch and body roll while driving off the road, while allowing the car to achieve greater wheel articulation. It gets longer and tougher wishbones, underbody protection, a 28mm increase in clearance, improved wading depth and a revised steering rack. Additionally, the bumpers at the front and rear have been altered as well, to increase the approach, departure and breakover angles, while enabling better articulation. It also gets flared wheel arches, different grille, higher ground clearance, and 22-inch wheels with all-season rubber. The cabin has been given an upgrade as well with a new 3D texture, supportive seats, 11.4-inch infotainment, refrigerator and haptic speakers inside the seats. The Octa uses a BMW-sourced 4.4-litre V8 that produces 635bhp and 750Nm of torque, that gets boosted to 800Nm when launching the SUV off-road. Land Rover claims a 0 to 100kmph time of 3.8 seconds and a top speed of Rs. 2.59 crore (ex-showroom)advertisementLaunch: March 2025BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT The Bentley Continental has now reached its latest, fourth-generation, and for the first time, it gets a hybrid. The Continental now uses a new 4.0-litre V8 that is paired to an electric motor, putting out 782bhp and 1,000Nm of torque. This power is sent to all the wheels, and performance figures quoted by the brand sit at 3.2 seconds for the 0 to 100kmph sprint and a top speed of 335kmph. It comes with a new look as well, with large oval headlamps and a large diamond mesh Rs. 3.5-4 crore (estimated)Launch: November 2025LEXUS GX After almost a decade, the GX has moved to a new generation, and with its ruggedness should fit right in. The new GX is based on the new GA-F platform, which is shared with the Lexus LX. It looks nothing like its predecessors and adopts a block-ish design with lots of cladding all around. Inside the GX offers a 14-inch touchscreen infotainment and a 12.3-inch drivers display. The GX is a proper body-on-frame SUV, and comes with a 3.5-litre V6 or a 2.4-litre hybrid motor, both with full time 4WD, low-range gearbox and multi-terrain drive modes. It also gets locking differentials, and comes shod with all-terrain Rs. 1.8 crore (ex-showroom)Launch: December 2025AUDI E-TRON GT The Audi e-tron GT was updated internationally last year, and its latest iteration is expected to arrive here this year. One of the most important changes is the revised variant lineup, which now includes the S e-tron GT, RS e-tron GT and the new RS e-tron GT Performance, that now becomes the top-spec model in the family, and the most powerful Audi. With access to 912bhp from its AWD Quattro setup, the Performance can sprint from nought to 100kmph in just 2.5 seconds. The S has 670bhp on tap, while the RS has access to 844bhp, with the former claiming 3.4 seconds to hundred and the latter claiming 2.8 seconds to hundred. Apart from the new and more powerful motors, the GT family also gets new battery pack, going up from 83.7kWh to 105kWh, while being lighter. Audi claims a range of 609km on a single charge, while the new charging system allows for charging speeds up to 320kW, juicing up the pack from 10 to 80 per cent in 18 minutes. Visual changes have also been made to the car, with changes to the bumpers and some elements, which are differentiated through the S, RS and RS Performance Rs. 1.8-2.5 crore (estimated)Launch: August 2025LAMBORGHINI TEMERARIO The Huracan's successor, the Temerario is going to make its debut soon, becoming the third hybrid model from the brand on sale here. It continues with a similar wedge shape to the Huracan, but gets a number of changes, even compared to the Revuelto, that mark it apart as a different model. The hexagonal aesthetic is present all over, most prominently in form of the LED DRLs mounted on the lower bumper. The front features a low end, with twin headlamps, a muscular bumper and a large splitter. On the sides, the Temerario gets a more aerodynamic design, with more downforce. One of the biggest changes compared to the Huracan is the discontinuation of the naturally-aspirated 5.2-litre V10, which has been replaced by an all new 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 that has a 10,000rpm redline. This produces 789bhp and 730Nm of torque, and is aided by three electric motors, two at the front and one in the transmission. This means that the Lamborghini has access to 907bhp and 800Nm of torque. All this helps the Temerario accelerate from 0 to 100kmph in just 2.7 seconds, and to a top speed of Rs. 5 crore (estimated)Launch: April 2025MERCEDES-AMG GT Mercedes-AMG's halo sportscar the GT is expected to make its return to India this year. The GT, now in its second generation has been overhauled from all angles, and internally as well. It is available globally in 43, 55, 63, 63 Pro and 63 S E Performance variants, with engines ranging from a 2.0-litre four-cylinder making 416bhp to a 4.0-litre V8 making upwards of 600bhp, and the S E that benefits from F1-derived hybrid tech. Changes include a new grille, a new smoother and bigger LED headlamp, a more sculpted bonnet, and sides, signs that point to the new GT spending considerable time inside a wind tunnel. The cabin has been revamped as well, with all modern amenities. AMG has also loaded the sports car with rear-wheel steering and an active damper Rs. 3-4.5 crore (estimated)Launch: September 2025FERRARI 12CILINDRI The Italian marque has launched the 12Cilindri, the brand's all new front-engined grand tourer. This succeeds the 812 Superfast, and unlike the rest of Ferrari's models which use hybrid powertrains, this gets an all-new naturally-aspirated engine. The reworked 6.5-litre NA V12 makes 830bhp, and is mated to an 8-speed transaxle dual-clutch automatic sending power only to the rear wheels. This engine is of such significance that the car itself is named after the engine, in Italian of course, and pronounced 'Dodici Cilindri'. The front-engined two-seater ethos continues with this, but with an all-new aesthetic. The cab-backward design is highlighted by the sweeping buttresses and a large rear Rs. 8.5 crore (coupe), `9.15 (roadster)Launch: January 2025AUDI Q6 E-TRON Audi's newest generation electric car, the Q6 e-tron is going to be the brand's next big launch. Based on the new PPE (Premium Platform Electric), this is the first of a new breed of EVs from Audi. Visually, the design does meet the overall theme of the e-tron family, it gets split lights, the DRLs placed above and the LED headlamps placed below, with the nose adorned by a full width OLED bar, that gets customisable designs. The interior gets new screens, with all new software, replete with a number of amenities. It gets a 387bhp dual-motor Quattro AWD system, paired to a 100kWh battery pack, that gives it a claimed WLTP range of 625km on a single charge. Reports suggest that the Q6 e-tron will be assembled by Audi locally, hence bringing costs down, and is likely to be priced around the `1 crore Rs 90 lakh (estimated)Launch: October 2025TOYOTA LAND CRUISER PRADO The fifth-gen Toyota Land Cruiser Prado is expected to arrive in India this year. The new Prado still is a proper body-on-frame SUV and continues on with the famed Land Cruiser capability and dependability. The design is heavily inspired by the original Land Cruiser 70 with boxy and upright proportions. All variants of the Land Cruiser 250 come with seating for five. It gets a 2.8-litre turbo which gets a 48V e-motor, developing a total of 204bhp and 500Nm of torque, the non-hybrid variant too has the same performance, this is the same engine that is offered with the Toyota Fortuner. The Prado comes with a host of off-road tech which includes full-time 4WD, with high and low ratio modes. It gets multiple-terrain drive modes, as well as a Crawl function which is a low-speed cruise control for off-road use. The ground clearance stands at 220mm. Tow and recovery hooks come as Rs. 1.2 crore (estimated)Launch: September 2025ROLLS-ROYCE SPECTRE BLACK BADGE Rolls-Royce's Spectre electric car has been given a new variant, named Black Badge. As other Black Badge models from the British automakers portfolio, this gets more power, and adjustments to handle that extra power, along with minor changes to the cosmetics. It gets 659bhp and 1,075Nm of torque, which is a boost of 82bhp and 175Nm over the standard Spectre. This means that the luxury coupe can sprint from 0 to 100kmph in just 4.1 seconds. It comes with the same 102kWh battery pack, with a claimed single charge range of 530km on a single charge. Rolls-Royce has tweaked the chassis, steering and the roll stabilisation system to manage the boost in power, but claims that the characteristic ride quality is untouched. It also gets a new Vapour Violet paint with 23-inch forged aluminium wheels for the Black Badge, however customers may choose from 44,000 colour options. The Black Badge gets blacked out elements, including the Spirit of Ecstasy and the front grille, which is also illuminated. Inside, the dashboard gets 5,500 embedded stars, and multiple theme options for the instrument and infotainment Rs. 8.5-9 crore (estimated)Launch: June 2025ASTON MARTIN VANQUISH Aston Martin has brought its V12-powered flagship, the new Vanquish to our shores. This all new grand-tourer carries the Vanquish name, a model that had been discontinued since 2018. This is powered by a new 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12 that produces 824bhp and 1,000Nm of twisting force paired to an 8-speed automatic. It can sprint from 0 to 100kmph in a mere 3.3 seconds and to a top speed of 345kmph. The brand has also fitted the car with Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers while it gets 410mm carbon ceramic discs up front for stopping Rs. 8.85 crore (ex-showroom)Launch: March 2025Subscribe to India Today Magazine
