Cars
Road Test: MG RX5 (2019)
The MG RX5 is the company’s new compact SUV. It is available in entry-level STD, mid-range COM, and high-end LUX models. The variant we reviewed was the LUX model.
The LUX model comes with a 2.0T engine and 7-speed transmission. It offers a torque of 350nm and a top speed of 208. The overall design and build quality are very good.
MG has fused top quality materials and aesthetics to build this SUV. It has chrome edging and soft-touch material covering 80% of the surfaces.
Opening up the panoramic sunroof fills the interior with natural light. The LUX model comes with electric folding mirrors, LED headlamps, rear parking cameras, and more.
You also get electrically-adjustable driver’s seat, additional airbags, and a 10-4-inch colour touchscreen. Apple CarPlay is also included as standard, though Android Auto is missing.
The LUX model also comes with MG’s smart all-wheel-drive system. The MG RX5 comes with a large boot area and includes ample storage spaces throughout the cabin.
The flexible rear space incorporates fold-flat seats for maximum boot space. Headroom and legroom are ample, too and the overall drive quality is excellent.
The MG RX5 can also be remotely controlled using the new MG iLink app. The app lets you remotely start the car, the AC unit, track the vehicle, and lots more.
The MG RX5 also comes with the one-touch opening of the rear hatch, keyless entry, a start button and more. The starting price of the MG RX5 is AED 56,500 and it comes with a 6-year warranty. Coming in at a very affordable price point, the MG RX5 is a very capable mid-range SUV.
Price: AED 56,500 onwards
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.