Luxury Lifestyle Archives

Ducati opens bookings for the Panigale V2 ahead of launch

Italian luxury motorcycle manufacturer Ducati has opened bookings for its first BS6 motorcycle, the Panigale V2, in India. An Italian-sporty blend with the perfect proportion of a classy-vibe, the brand-new Ducati Panigale V2 is another member added to the Ducati Panigale family. With extraordinary features, Ducati India is accepting bookings now since its announcement on 20th July, 2020 with an initial amount of INR 100,000.

The visual design of the fairings is inspired by the Panigale V4 which makes it look like a ‘red-fiery-monster’ (if bought in the red color scheme), controllable with a better and comfortable seat. The other color scheme is the new White Red.

The Panigale V2 features a single-sided aluminium swingarm: the hallmark of every high-end Ducati superbike along with a compacted twin-cylinder Superquadro engine (smaller in comparison to the Desmosedici Stradale). Along with this, the exhaust has been set under the engine and the frame is the same monocoque with everything bolted to the 90-degree V-twin.

“The Panigale V2 has been the most awaited bike since EICMA and we eagerly waited to bring this ultimate superbike as our first BS6 motorcycle for the Indian motorcycle enthusiast. The new Panigale V2 is a beefy yet compact bike with clear-cut lines that convey power without compromising on the classic Ducati superbike flair. Considering the overwhelming inquiries for the launch of the Panigale V2, we are confident the bike will do well in the market by offering an unmatched Ducati riding experience to enthusiasts who’re looking to step into the world of riding on the racetrack and also to more experienced riders”, said Bipul Chandra, the Managing Director of Ducati India.

The Panigale V2 is similar to Panigale V4 in ways that it’s tangible, easy to ride. But Panigale V2 does not make you conscious about handling a lot of parts while riding it. The Panigale V2 is now the entry mode for the Panigale family, replacing Panigale 959. The members have often been described as ‘ferrari on to wheels’, making it an adventurous as well enjoyable ride. Racers have found the bike to be easy, predictable and friendly while learning the track layout.

The V2 is a better and upgraded version of Panigale 959, with a better and responsive design enabling one to get locked on the bike while riding it. Racers seem to put a lot of energy while riding Panigale 959 whereas the Panigale V2 is easy-riding and also has electronics that work in ways that you’ll be amazed to hear about. The addition of six-axis IMU and the manifold of electronic rider aides gets filtered with different racing modes the bike has on the 4.5-inch TFT display.

This ultimate middleweight sports bike can be booked at their nearest dealerships which can be searched on their website. As soon as the bike is launched, they will be delivered and it will be available on display across all Ducati dealerships in Delhi – NCR, Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Kochi, Kolkata, and Chennai. Considering the Covid-19 situation, the test rides will also begin shortly after the launch under the ‘Ducati Cares’ program by taking care of all the guidelines and safety measures.

BMW S 1000 XR: The Holy Grail of off-roaders is back!

If luxury brands are your thing, it is impossible that you have not heard of German luxury automobile manufacturer BMW. Its Indian wing, BMW Motorrad India has officially launched its internationally best-selling adventure sportbike, the all-new BMW S 1000 XR in India. It’s an all-days sports bike that uniquely blends sporty and long-distance performance in perfect form. Its sporty aggressiveness comes from its fully-faired sibling, the S 1000 RR. Its outstanding GS ergonomics with the upright, relaxed seat position, lets the riders enjoy all curves and straight roads.

BMW has designed the motorcycle to reflect pure performance and the promise of long-distance traveling comfort with a riding position that is impressively active yet relaxed. The front fairing and lighting systems are defined by sharp edges. Combined with striking beading, the overall line is shaped aggressively and consistently to the finish. The visually short tail is also reminiscent of a sportbike. The revised aerodynamics, fairing, comfortable handlebars along with long-distant seating position ensure great riding fun miles after miles. The adjustable windshield provides even better protection against the cold, driving noises, and the elements allowing the rider to keep the eyes on the road. All lighting units such as the headlamp, taillight, indicator lights, and instrument cluster use the latest LED technology. The integrated parking lights enhance the bike’s unmistakable appearance.

The newly developed 999 cc in-line 4-cylinder engine is based on the BMW S 1000 RR engine and delivers an output of 165 hp at 11,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 114 Nm at 9,250 rpm. The engine speed range is broader and harmonious to enhance rideability. The 4th, 5th, and 6th gears now have longer ratios, low noise levels, lower fuel consumption, and lower engine rpm at cruising speeds. The motorcycle sprints from 0-100 km/hr in just 3.3 seconds and can achieve a top speed of over 200 km/hr.

The new BMW S 1000 XR has four standard riding modes – Rain, Road, Dynamic and Dynamic Pro. The ‘Dynamic Pro’ mode is fully configurable and offers riders a wide range of setting options to suit their riding style. The throttle response, engine brake, ABS control (Anti-lock Braking System) and traction control, wheelie control (including the new ‘Power Wheelie’ setting) can be configured separately for the first time. While the BMW Motorrad ABS system already provides a very high degree of performance and safety when braking in a straight line, ABS Pro takes this a step further when braking in a banking position.

The adventure tourer features the latest generation of BMW Motorrad Dynamic ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment) as standard. The best-in-class 6.5- inch colour TFT screen instrument cluster along with BMW Motorrad connectivity offers unmatched display and access to information. In addition, the BMW Motorrad Connected App offers handy arrow-based navigation suitable for day-to-day use directly on the TFT screen. The multi-controller on the left-hand handlebar panel enables quick, safe, and convenient screen operation.

A wide array of retrofit equipment and gear options are available to further enhance the riding experience with a range of storage bags, backpacks, rider gear, navigation, and communication. Customers can augment their bikes with safety accessories such as radiator grille, hand protector, brake disk lock with an anti-theft alarm, and protective glass for TFT screen.

Quick maintenance at home or while touring is made easy with assembly stand, multifunctional tool kit, tyre pressure travel pack, breakdown assistance kit for tubeless tyres and a compact foot pump.

Mr Arlindo Teixeira, acting President, BMW Group India said, “The all-new BMW S 1000 XR is an agile achiever that sets a new benchmark in the adventure sports segment. It is a power-packed performer that brings the real racetrack feel to everyday roads. With its newly developed engine and uncompromising ergonomics, it offers awe-inspiring performance, sporty ride and long-distance capabilities. Riders waiting for a distinctive experience will be drawn to the multi-faceted all-new BMW S 1000 XR. It’s a perfect companion, ready to hit the road for all kinds of journeys with sheer motorcycling enjoyment.”

For complete peace of mind and to ensure that the journey of pure motorcycling continues uninterrupted at all times, the all-new BMW S100 XR comes with a standard warranty for ‘three years, unlimited kilometers’, with an option to extend the warranty to fourth and fifth year. Roadside Assistance, a 24×7 365 days package further ensures prompt services in case of breakdown and towing situations.

The new bike can be ordered as a completely built-up unit (CBU) from today onwards throughout the BMW Motorrad dealer network. The all-new BMW S 1000 XR will be offered in a Pro variant in Ice Grey and Racing Red colour options. The ex-showroom price is Rs 20,90,000.

Ford’s terrain conqueror returns: The 2021 Bronco SUV

Ford has officially revealed the 2021 Bronco SUV that will, for the first time, be available in a four-door version. Since its hibernation in 1996, Bronco fans worldwide have been anticipating its return. The American car manufacturer also hinted at a new model in 2004, when it introduced a concept car. Ford finally confirmed the arrival of a new Bronco in 2016.

In its 2021 avatar, the fifth-gen Bronco aims at reigniting its age-old rivalry with the Jeep Wrangler. It retains some classic elements such as LED DRLs inset to the round headlights and hood tie-downs called “Trail Sights” by Ford; a true insignia of its legacy. It also keeps its familial stance and general proportions.

The interiors are awash with nostalgia as well, but with ample modernization. Its retro-looking instrumentation is suavely complemented by a brand-new, 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It gets Ford’s SYNC 4 software with OTA updates, that offers FordPass Performance app compatibility and onboard topographic trail maps. These maps can be used by drivers to plan, navigate and share their trail adventures. The roof panels and the frameless doors are removable (we would be so sad if they were not!) and the switches have been rubberised as well, making the interior completely washable.

Ford, in a sleight of hand, has added an integrated rollcage and curtain airbags to get a one-up in safety over its rival. It has also made the Bronco significantly larger than the Jeep Wranger (JL), while giving it independent front suspension! It is paired with a solid multilink rear axle and is offered with Bilstein’s top of the line Position sensitive dampers.

The 2021 Bronco will be offered in a four-door, as well as in the classic two-door version. Customers can choose from seven trims, in which the ground clearance varies from 231m to 295mm and wheel size increases from standard 6-inch with 30-inch tyres to 17-inch wheels with 35-inch tyres.

Buyers also have a choice between two EcoBoost turbocharged petrol engines. The first is a 2.3-litre inline four-cylinder producing 270PS/420Nm, offered with either a Getrag 7-speed manual (6+1 crawler gear) or a 10-speed automatic. The second engine, a 2.7-litre twin-turbo V6 making 310PS/542Nm is only offered with the automatic transmission.

Want a free Harley Davidson? Just purchase this watch!

Sometimes it is necessary for you to match your wrist watch to your vehicle. While most owners make do with aesthetic similarities, Swiss watchmaker Carl F. Bucherer has taken it one step ahead. Collaborating with American motorcycle manufacturer Harley Davidson, the company has created the ‘Bucherer Blue’ watch.

The watch is based on the manufacturer’s Patravi TravelTec II and gets a rose gold finished case with a black bezel and a blue face. Its front has a sapphire anti-reflective face while its back sports a transparent window. Its rubber strap is also designed as a tyre tread. The watch runs on CFB 1901.1 calibre automatic movement with a 42-hour power reserve. Apart from the hour, minute and second dials, it also shows a date counter and three different time zones.

The owner of this watch will probably get the world’s most expensive watch holder. It is a customized Harley Davidson Softail Slim S which is called the Blue Edition. It has two armoured glass domes inside its fuel tank, which hold the watch and a solitaire ring. The holder, which is insulated with silicone rings to absorb the motorcycle’s vibrations, also doubles up as a watch winder. This charges the watch while it is sitting in the box.

Harley Davidson roped in chop-shop specialists Bundnerbike to complete their project. The basis for this bike is the Harley-Davidson Softail Slim from 2017, which was rebuilt in detail. Even the smallest parts, including bolts, were made by hand and given a high-quality finish. The wheels were specially designed for the Blue Bike, and the saddle is also hand-stitched – made in Switzerland.

The motorcycle is also embedded with heat-resistant LEDs on the inside that illuminate the various gold-plated components of the motorcycle. The tank doubles up as the watch holder, as well as the holder of a six-prong solitaire ring with a 5.4 carat diamond.

Mechanically, the motorcycle remains unchanged and carries forward its 107cu.in. (1753cc) V-twin engine that makes 92HP of maximum power and 145Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a six-speed manual transmission.

Patrick Graf, Chief Commercial Officer at Bucherer says, “We are delighted to be able to take advantage of our many years of experience and our close relationships with our partners to create exquisite, one-of-a-kind watches and products as part of the Bucherer BLUE collection, which are available for purchase exclusively at Bucherer.”

The iridescent paint job of the motorcycle was achieved after an elaborate process of silver plating the motorcycle completely. It was then painted with six coats of different colours, that has resulted in the rich, deep blue colour.

As expected, this luxury comes with an incredible price of Rs 15 crore (when converted) of which almost Rs 12 crore go towards the costing of the motorcycle, making it the most expensive one in the world! Still, Rs 3 crore for a wrist watch is quite a fancy deal, don’t you think? Naturally, it is safe to assume that the Harley Davidson Softail S Blue Edition will definitely not be an everyday sight.

Car Brands That Redefine Luxury

Automobiles have long been a symbol of wealth, with even the simplest of cars being the objects of pride. Over the years, the industry has evolved from limited and niche brands to full-blown luxurious pieces of art. While cars became available to the public and hence lost their exclusivity, car brands rose to make their products even fancier, even better and even costlier.

Luxury cars have always been kept apart from the general category, as a castle separates the king from his people. They have also been called special names– ‘auto di lusso’ in Italy or ‘voiture de luxe’ in France, both meaning luxury cars. The Germans call them Oberklasse which directly means “upper class”.

Many car brands across the world manufacture models across multiple segments. Automobile giants like Volkswagen and General Motors even have plants worldwide. In order to segregate the luxurious cars from the mass-produced models, many car brands often choose to sell their luxuries under a different banner. This has led to Toyota forming Lexus and Nissan forming Infiniti, among others. Even popular brands like Citroen, Ford and Geely have DS, Lincoln and Volvo respectively.

However, car brands have always competed to extend their luxuries to as many segments as possible, creating further division in luxury cars.

There are entry-level luxury cars, also known as Premium compacts. These became popular in the mid-2000s after European manufacturers introduced a cheaper alternative to their bigger luxury cars. Some models in this category are the Audi A3, Mercedes-Benz GLA, BMW X2, Lexus CT2000h and the Volvo C30. These cars might be smaller than their executive siblings, but they’re at par in luxury.
Then come the compact luxury cars that are also smaller than their executive siblings and can also be called compact executive cars. It includes Alfa Romeo’s Giulia, Tesla’s Model 3 and the Infiniti Q50, among others.
The Executives are bigger than the prior two and act as a gateway to ultra-luxury. Executive car is a British term for an automobile larger than a large family car. Jaguar XF and Volvo S90 are some examples in this segment.
Germany’s Oberklasse segment and Europe’s F-segment are reserved for full-size luxury sedans. Most of them are flagship models of the company and feature the newest technology that the car brands have to offer. Also called luxury saloon or luxury limousine, these include the BMW 7 Series, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the Lexus LS and the Porsche Panamera, among others.
The Ultra-luxury segment is reserved for the elite, with all cars costing well above the Rs 10 crore mark. Here car brands offer models that will focus primarily on offering as much luxury as possible,making almost each piece unique to its owner. Names like the Rolls-Royce Phantom, Maybach 57 and the Bentley Arnage are enough to tell people one thing: You got deep pockets.

These are the car brands that will help you redefine luxury. Each car falling under this segment has not only been manufactured to carry its passengers, it has been made to set standards of luxury and style.