Cars
Jaguar Launches the new XE
The new Jaguar XE delivers an enhanced exterior design, all-new luxurious interior and advanced technologies. An updated exterior design gives the XE a more purposeful and assertive stance. Continuing on from the beautifully judged proportions of the original car, new XE’s sporting intent has been taken up a level, with contemporary design cues inspired by the F-TYPE sports car. XE appears wider and lower than before, with larger front apertures, bold graphics and muscular forms eluding to the car’s performance and advanced aerodynamics.
New all-LED headlights with a striking ‘J’ blade daytime running light signature create a more purposeful look. The rear of the car also features a new bumper design and slender all-LED tail-lights with updated signature graphics which accentuate the visual width of the car, giving the XE a more planted appearance.
For an even more performance-orientated character, R-Dynamic models include additional exterior design elements including aircraft winglet-inspired sculpted surfaces, dark mesh detailing to the rear valance and alternative wheel styles. On the interior, the sporting influences continue with sports-style seats with contrast stitching, Satin Chrome gearshift paddles and R-Dynamic tread plates.
The beautifully-crafted all-new interior features extensive use of soft-touch materials, premium veneers and all-new door trims that improve usability and practicality. New XE’s luxurious and technology-packed interior delivers more comfort, quality and connectivity for all occupants. Every aspect of the cabin has been enhanced for increased convenience, improved stowage and better passenger comfort.
The influence of Jaguar’s flagship two-seater sports car is also evident as both the SportShift gear selector and JaguarDrive Control switch shared with the F-TYPE are on the revised centre console. A new steering wheel, shared with the all-electric I-PACE, features hidden-until-lit graphics and tactile switches for intuitive control of key functions.
The new XE is also the smartest and most connected yet. Jaguar’s Touch Pro Duo infotainment system, shared with I-PACE, is also available for the first time, delivering instinctive control through a pair of seamlessly integrated high-resolution touchscreens. Wireless device charging and clever Smart Settings technology also make their first appearance in the XE.
The first-in-segment ClearSight interior rear view mirror improves safety and convenience by ensuring the driver has an unobstructed view of the road behind. Using a wide angle rear-facing camera, the system feeds images to a high-definition screen within the frameless rear view mirror; unhindered by tall rear passengers, poor light or rain on the rear screen.
Ian Callum, Jaguar Design Director, said: “XE’s uniqueness is its totality. Customers get a complete package of progressive design, innovative technology and extraordinary driving dynamics. We don’t do ordinary and new XE personifies this. My team and I get huge satisfaction out of improving a car we’re all so familiar with; we’ve lived with it, we understand its character and it’s a wonderful opportunity to make a great car even better. With new XE, we’ve done just that in every way imaginable.”
Jaguar XE’s lightweight aluminium intensive body structure continues to play a major role in the car’s agile handling, exceptional safety and efficiency. Aluminium makes up 75 per cent of the body and combines with proven rear and all-wheel drive systems, double wishbone front and integral link rear suspension, plus some of Jaguar’s most advanced engines, for dynamic handling and performance.
Standard on all XE models, Dynamic mode amplifies the car’s sporting character, with faster gear shifts, sharper throttle response and increased steering weighting. Drivers are able to shape the driving experience with greater ease thanks to the optional Configurable Dynamics system. This feature allows drivers to set up the vehicle to their personal preference by choosing Comfort or Dynamic settings for the engine, gearbox and steering through the central touchscreen. Where specified, Adaptive Dynamics constantly adjusts the dampers to provide the optimum balance between comfort and refinement at all times and in all driving situations.
New XE features an automatic transmission as standard and is available in rear and all-wheel drive variants. Jaguar’s advanced torque on-demand all-wheel drive (AWD) system and Intelligent Driveline Dynamics technology maintain the XE’s rear-wheel drive handling feel and agility while improving performance, traction and driver confidence in all weather conditions. The 300 PS petrol engine, equipped with all-wheel drive, accelerates from 0-100km/h in 5.7 seconds.
The new XE is available with a choice of clean and efficient Ingenium petrol and diesel engines. The 2.0-litre Ingenium petrol is available with 250PS and 300PS outputs, badged P250 and P300 respectively, while the efficient 180PS Ingenium diesel, badged D180, delivers 430Nm of torque and fuel consumption of up to 57.6mpg (from 4.9l/100km).
XE’s entry-level specification now features an automatic transmission, 18-inch wheels, electric leather seats, all-LED headlights and tail-lights with updated signature graphics, front and rear park aid, rear camera and lane keep assist. Customers can select from S, SE and HSE trim levels, with each also available in sporty R-Dynamic guise. A range of option packs provide even greater personalisation:
- Dynamic Handling Pack: Configurable Dynamics, Adaptive Dynamics, Performance Brakes, Coloured Brake Calipers, Bootlid Spoiler
- Technology Pack: Head-Up Display, Solar Windscreen, Touch Pro Duo, Interactive Driver Display, Wireless Charging, ClearSight Interior Rear View Mirror
- Convenience Pack: Gesture Bootlid, Keyless Entry, Electric Steering Column Adjustment, Additional Power Sockets
- Premium Interior Upgrade Pack: Illuminated Treadplates, Bright Pedals, Configurable Ambient Lighting
Cars
Rolls-Royce Unveils Black Badge Ghost Series II
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has today unveiled the Black Badge Ghost Series II, a daring and powerful new expression of its iconic Ghost model. This latest addition to the Black Badge family is the most agile, driver-focused, and technically advanced Rolls-Royce ever created.
Powered by an uncompromising 6.75-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine in a high-power configuration, the Black Badge Ghost Series II delivers exceptional performance. The all-wheel-drive, all-wheel-steering chassis, combined with the Black Badge Planar Suspension System, ensures a thrilling and dynamic driving experience.
The exterior design of the Black Badge Ghost Series II is equally striking, featuring a unique lower grille, darkened chrome accents, and a dramatic 22-inch wheelset. The interior is equally impressive, with luxurious materials, advanced technology, and a focus on driver comfort and control.
Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, commented, “Black Badge Ghost Series II responds to a very specific demand among our clients – those who wish to enjoy the potency of this motor car’s uncompromising engine and inherent agility almost exclusively from the driver’s seat.”
Juliane Blasi, Head of Exterior Design at Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, added, “With Black Badge Ghost Series II, we have introduced subtle but impactful design impulses that clearly signal this motor car’s incredible agility and power.”
The Black Badge Ghost Series II is available to commission now, alongside the Ghost Series II and Ghost Extended Series II.
Cars
Sinotruk Enters UAE Market with New Brand VGV
Chinese automotive giant Sinotruk, a pioneer in the heavy-duty truck industry, has officially entered the UAE market with its new passenger vehicle brand, VGV (Visionable Global Vanguard). Established in 1930, Sinotruk has a long innovation and technical excellence history. The company’s decision to expand into the passenger car market is a testament to its growing global ambitions.
The new VGV showroom is in Al Qouz 1, Dubai, UAE. The brand offers various vehicles, including SUVs, pickups, vans, and MPVs, powered by various energy sources such as electric, hybrid, fuel, diesel, and alternative energy.
VGV’s SUV models are designed to cater to families, offering spacious interiors and advanced safety features. The pickup models, powered by the renowned Wei Chai Engine manufactured by Sinotruk, are known for their durability and performance.
Prices for VGV vehicles start at AED 73,000, making them an attractive option for consumers seeking quality and affordability.
Cars
Audi, Al Nabooda Automobiles Launch the Audi Q2
Audi, Al Nabooda Automobiles have launched the Audi Q2 in the UAE. The vehicle will be on display at 25hours Hotel One Central from October 3rd to 6th, 2024. Audi customers and car enthusiasts are invited to be part of the exclusive celebration marking the arrival of the new Audi Q2 under the vibrant theme of ‘Paint the Town’.
Guests who visit on October 3rd will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a hands-on spray-painting session surrounding the new car, indulge in Q2-inspired mocktails, relish in live music from DJ Tala Samman and be among the first to explore the stylish and comfortable feature of the Audi Q2.
“The arrival of the Audi Q2 is a testament to our dedication to bringing the best in design, technology, and innovation to our customers in Dubai and the Northern Emirates,” said K. Rajaram, CEO of Al Nabooda Automobiles. “This segment serves as a gateway into the Audi family for younger buyers seeking to purchase their first vehicle or upgrade their current one. Its youthful, modern styling combined with upgraded technology makes it the perfect choice for those who demand versatility and a dynamic driving experience in every setting.”
The Audi Q2 receives a significant upgrade to its infotainment system, as well as the addition of the virtual cockpit and an 8.8-inch touchscreen as the central control unit for the MMI (Multi-Media Interface). In addition, a convenient storage compartment replaces the previous rotary/push button. Audi Q2 is now available across all Audi, Al Nabooda Automobiles showrooms, with a starting price of AED 139,900.