evo India’s epic 11th anniversary issue celebrates 50 years of the 911 Turbo

Celebrating 50 years of the 911 Turbo, driving the Ferrari 12 Cilindri and Bentley Continental GT Speed, taking India’s very first R8 to meet the RS e-tron GT, an Initial D inspired hill climb, all generations of the BMW 5 Series and more in this issue of evo India
The 11th Anniversary issue of evo India is out on stands now!
The 11th Anniversary issue of evo India is out on stands now!Team evo India
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Our biggest issue of the year is on stands now – and headlining it is with every generation of the iconic Porsche 911 Turbo! We slipped into the Porsche museum late at night to explore and shoot the evolution of this automotive icon. From the trailblazing 964 to the ferocious 992 Turbo S, Porsche’s evolution of the 911 Turbo has pushed the limits of speed, technology, and design at every turn. With groundbreaking innovations like the water-cooled ‘Mezger’ engine, PDK transmission, and active aerodynamics, the 911 Turbo has become a force to be reckoned with. Packed with exclusive insights and behind-the-scenes details, this feature brings you closer to the legend than ever before. We followed that up with a blast through our favourite driving roads with the 911 Turbo S currently on sale in India. Whether you’re a Porsche purist or simply a fan of high-octane thrills, this collector’s edition issue is a must-read – a tribute to 50 years of speed, precision, and pure driving bliss. Continuing our poster series, we again have an exclusive poster – with every generation of the 911 Turbo on it!
That’s not all. The new McLaren W1 was just unveiled and we bring you the complete low down. Buckle up as we unleash the Ferrari 12 Cilindri in Germany, take the most powerful Bentley ever – the Continental GT Speed – for a spin, and dive into the electric future with the Audi RS e-tron GT Performance and Mini Countryman E. We get behind the wheel of the refreshed Audi Q8, Mini Cooper S, Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV, MG Windsor, Tata Curvv, and Hyundai Alcazar.

The anniversary issue has plenty of special stories as well. Embark on a nostalgic journey with the fastest Audis we’ve driven, coming face to face with the first R8 that graced our roads and driving it with the RS e-tron GT.  Pushing the Citroen Basalt to its limits, we tackle a gruelling 3500km journey to the desert, while we brave the elements at country’s wettest place in the Hyundai Creta. We relive our Initial D dreams with the Honda Elevate and City and highlight 11 reasons why the Volkswagen Virtus and Taigun are true standouts in their class. We also explore why the Maruti Suzuki Swift is a beloved choice for first-time drivers and how the updated Altroz has earned its reputation as one of the best premium hatchbacks. On two wheels, we bring you reviews of the new TVS Apache RR 310, the Triumph Speed T4, and the Hero Destini 125. Our motorsport section features highlights from the country’s first night street race, Harith Noah’s exploits in the Transanatolia rally, and India’s first CIK-certified karting track.

All this and more in this milestone issue. Grab your copy now!

Celebrating 50 years of the Porsche 911 Turbo
Celebrating 50 years of the Porsche 911 TurboTeam evo India

50 years of the Porsche 911 Turbo

From the groundbreaking 930 to the cutting-edge 992 Turbo S, the Turbo has established itself as a pinnacle of performance and innovation. Each generation, from the refined 964 to the game-changing 993 and the versatile 996, has pushed the boundaries of sports car excellence. This story takes you to the Porsche museum in Stuttgart, delving into the legacy of the 911 Turbo and its profound impact on both the Porsche brand and the automotive industry as a whole.

Porsche 911 Turbo S driven in India
Porsche 911 Turbo S driven in IndiaTeam evo India

Porsche 911 Turbo S unleashed on Indian roads

Continuing our Turbo celebration, we take the 992-gen Turbo S to Tamhini Ghat, a challenging road known for its unpredictable conditions. Equipped with a 3.7-litre twin-turbo flat-six engine, the Turbo S delivers 641bhp and 800Nm of torque, launching from 0-100kmph in a staggering 2.7 seconds. Nothing like a blast through the hills to remind ourselves what makes the Turbo such a fantastic car, that has endured for half a century.

Ferrari's 812 Superfast replacement driven
Ferrari's 812 Superfast replacement drivenTeam evo India

Ferrari 12 Cilindri

The Ferrari 12 Cilindri, named after its V12 engine, is the replacement to the 812 Superfast and puts out 819bhp and 678Nm of torque from the glorious, 6.5-litre V12. Fascinatingly, despite being unveiled in 2024, it is entirely free of forced or hybrid assistance, maintaining a pure, naturally aspirated experience. We push it hard, both on road and track! 

All the Indian generations of the BMW 5 Series driven
All the Indian generations of the BMW 5 Series drivenTeam evo India

All Indian generations of the BMW 5 Series

In an era when luxury was synonymous with comfort, the BMW 5 Series shattered conventions by prioritising sheer driving pleasure, embodying the brand’s ethos as the Ultimate Driving Machine. But from the bold and controversial E60 to the latest G68, the evolution of the 5 Series tells a different story. With a new design, a long wheelbase, and a surprising shift toward comfort, the G68 aims for a new set of comfort-focussed buyers. Does this new iteration honour its heritage while appealing to the demands of the Indian luxury market? 

Audi RS e-tron meets India's first R8
Audi RS e-tron meets India's first R8Team evo India

Audi RS e-tron meets India’s first R8

In this story, we explore our Journey with Audi! Editor Sirish Chandran gets a blast from the past, driving the first R8 V8 that ever came to India – a car that he coincidentally drove for the 11th anniversary issue of Overdrive back in 2009. This car, along with the gen 2 R8 V10, meets the Audi RS e-tron GT – Audi’s modern flagship that brings blistering performance to the modern day. Together, these models highlight Audi’s evolution as a brand, the evolution of quattro technology in the high-performance segment, and how rapid the pace of progress is!

Audi RS e-tron GT Performance driven
Audi RS e-tron GT Performance drivenTeam evo India

As if the RS e-tron GT already didn’t have enough performance for the road, Audi launched the RS e-tron GT Performance. With an astonishing 912bhp, it delivers a blistering 0-100kmph time of just 2.5 seconds. The fastest production Audi, yet!  

Bentley Continental GT Speed driven
Bentley Continental GT Speed drivenTeam evo India

Bentley Continental GT Speed

Bentley is looking to tap into India’s growing demand for luxury cars with the new Continental GT Speed, featuring a hybrid powertrain that pumps out 771bhp and 1000Nm of torque. On the road, this means a 0-100kmph time of 3.2 seconds and drastically reduced CO2 emissions. All while delivering a bespoke luxurious experience on the inside. Is this the GT car to have?

First drive review of the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV
First drive review of the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUVTeam evo India

Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV

The EQS SUV comes at a surprisingly palatable price of ₹1.41 crore. For just ₹1.75 lakh more than the EQE SUV, you step up to a flagship experience that boasts a commanding size, luxurious interior, and an impressive 122kWh battery and twin motors delivering a robust 536bhp. With three row seating, exceptional second-row comfort, and state-of-the-art features like the stunning 56-inch Hyperscreen, the EQS SUV just made choosing a luxury electric SUV a lot easier.

Exploring our Initial D fantasies with the Honda Elevate
Exploring our Initial D fantasies with the Honda ElevateTeam evo India

Living our Initial D dreams 

It’s hard to imagine a car enthusiast who hasn’t once dreamt of driving like Takumi Fujiwara from the Initial D series. But driving like that is no small feat and requires a lot of practice. Our correspondent Zubbin gets some lessons from the Ed on smooth driving. Channelling the spirit of Initial D, Zubbin takes on the Western Ghats in a Honda Elevate, honing his skills with precision and control. From handling tight corners to taking on the infamous water cup challenge, he discovers that driving isn’t just about speed, but finesse – slow is smooth, and smooth is fast.

Tata Curvv ICE driven
Tata Curvv ICE drivenTeam evo India

Tata Curvv ICE 

Late to the mid-size SUV segment Tata Motors might be, but it has crafted a compelling contender with the Curvv. After testing the Curvv EV last month, we’ve now driven the ICE, equipped with a new three-cylinder GDI engine that delivers superior performance and refinement compared to Tata’s earlier petrols. Its design, reminiscent of the EV model, introduces a sleek, coupe-like silhouette and a contemporary interior to the segment. 

MG Windsor EV gets a claimed range of 331km
MG Windsor EV gets a claimed range of 331kmTeam evo India

MG Windsor

Another new entry in the cutthroat mid-size SUV market is the electric MG Windsor. It dares to stand out with its innovative Battery as a Service (BaaS) model, allowing buyers to rent the battery while owning the car, starting at an introductory price of ₹9.99 lakh. As for the numbers,  it features a 38kWh battery with a claimed 331km MIDC range, while an electric motor delivers 134bhp and 200Nm. But can it challenge established EV giant Tata Motors?  

The Mini Cooper Countryman E goes up against the likes of the Kia EV6
The Mini Cooper Countryman E goes up against the likes of the Kia EV6Team evo India

Mini Cooper Countryman E

Mini offers an intriguing option for those seeking a compact SUV. While it may not win any drag races – hitting 0-100kmph in a leisurely 8.6 seconds – it shines with its handling and space on the inside. With a 66.5kWh battery, it boasts a range of 462km, making it versatile for both city commutes and weekend getaways. It maintains the classic Mini charm, and priced at ₹59.5 lakh the Countryman E positions itself against competitors like the Volvo C40 Recharge and Kia EV6.

The perfect ride for your dream garage?
The perfect ride for your dream garage?Team evo India

Mini Cooper S

One thrilling early-morning blast through rain-soaked streets was all it took for your correspondent to crown the Mini Cooper S  “the perfect plug to fill that third spot in your dream garage.” From its precise, go-kart-like handling to the throaty turbocharged 2-litre engine, the Cooper S devours corners with finesse. It’s not about top speed or luxury – though it offers both – but about pure, unfiltered Thrill of Driving. If you love driving and crave excitement, this hot hatch is what your garage – and your life – has been missing. 

First look at the Mercedes-Benz E-Class LWB
First look at the Mercedes-Benz E-Class LWB Team evo India

First look at the long-wheelbase E-Class

Before driving India’s best-selling and longest running luxury nameplate, we bring you this detailed walk-through of the India-spec LWB E-Class

Hyundai Alcazar first drive review
Hyundai Alcazar first drive reviewTeam evo India

Hyundai Alcazar

The Hyundai Alcazar has received a significant facelift, moving away from its previous chrome-heavy design to a more refined look, mirroring the sportier Creta N Line. Inside, the Alcazar has dual 10.25-inch screens and a darker colour scheme that should be easier to maintain than the previous white interior. With three rows of seat and genuine comfort engineered in to it, should you pick it over other SUVs in the mid-size SUV segment? 

Audi Q8 facelift driven
Audi Q8 facelift drivenTeam evo India

Audi Q8 facelift

The Audi Q8 has received a subtle facelift this year. While it retains a big bulky stance and familiar features like the dual-screen layout, it has a tweaked front end while adding useful upgrades such as four-zone climate control and a 360-degree camera. The unchanged V6 engine delivers 335bhp, allowing it to sprint from 0-100kmph in 5.6 seconds. 

The McLaren W1 is the latest hybrid hypercar on the scene
The McLaren W1 is the latest hybrid hypercar on the sceneTeam evo India

McLaren W1

In the pantheon of automotive legends, McLaren’s F1 and P1 have a place of their own. First came the F1, a symbol of automotive perfection, followed by the P1, which revolutionised hybrid performance. Now, the W1 takes its place at the apex, boasting a jaw-dropping 1257bhp from its all-new hybrid V8 engine. This places it ahead of even the revered P1. We take you deep under its carbonfibre skin and see what makes it special from its Aerocell tub and active aerodynamics.

Why we love the Volkswagen Virtus and the Taigun
Why we love the Volkswagen Virtus and the TaigunTeam evo India

11 reasons we love the VW Virtus and Taigun

To celebrate our 11th anniversary issue, we have put together 11 reasons that show just how impressive the Virtus and Taigun are, and how we, at evo India, can’t get enough of these. From their exciting performance and modern technology to their stylish looks and strong safety features, these cars capture the joy of driving like none other.

Putting the Citroen Basalt through its paces on a 3500km journey
Putting the Citroen Basalt through its paces on a 3500km journeyTeam evo India

Citroen Basalt on a 3500km journey

The Basalt is Citroen’s play in the mid-size SUV segment with a Coupe-SUV design aimed at reinvigorating the brand’s sales. It has garnered significant attention for its striking aesthetics, comfortable suspension system, and comfortable interior. But for its ultimate test, we embarked on a rigorous 3500km journey that included a challenging drive from Pune to Jaisalmer and back, traversing some of India’s harshest terrains, including the Thar desert. During this trip, the Basalt faced extreme conditions, with temperatures soaring above 45 degrees Celsius and navigating rough, rutted trails. 

The best starter car for the enthu-cutlet?
The best starter car for the enthu-cutlet?Team evo India

Maruti Suzuki Swift: the best enthu-cutlet starter car?

The Swift is back, and while it’s now powered by a smaller three-cylinder engine, it’s still every bit the driving enthusiasts’ car. With agile handling, improved fuel efficiency, and an improved chassis, it continues to be the go-to hatchback for budding drivers and enthusiasts alike.

Heading to Tamhini Ghat with the Hyundai Creta
Heading to Tamhini Ghat with the Hyundai CretaTeam evo India

To the wettest place on earth

We head on a day trip to Tamhini Ghat, now the wettest place on Earth, and known to us for its stunning scenery and twisty roads. The Creta was the perfect partner for this adventure, combining performance with comfort while the safety features further provided peace of mind. Although the anticipated rains didn’t show up, we did get to witness mesmerising views and a stunning drive that solidified Creta’s position as a leader in the compact SUV segment.

TVS Apache RR 310 first ride
TVS Apache RR 310 first rideTeam evo India

TVS Apache RR 310

No point in guessing the inspiration for this bike. With its bold, muscular design and high tail, comparisons to certain big bikes have always been inevitable. And this year, that inspiration is even more pronounced. The 2024 RR 310 features prominent winglets, alongside a clear clutch cover. With a more potent engine that churns out 37.4bhp and 29Nm of torque and a suite of electronic rider aids – including a quickshifter and traction control – ensure that it not only delivers top-tier performance but also commands attention on the road.  

Checking out Triumph's Ride and Learn programme
Checking out Triumph's Ride and Learn programmeTeam evo India

Triumph: Ride and Learn 

For anyone who thinks that years of riding experience automatically equates to skill, the Triumph Ride and Learn programme offers a reality check. This initiative focuses on instilling proper riding techniques right from the start, addressing bad habits like poor posture and over-reliance on the rear brake. We were among the participants for its debut season, engaging in a mix of classroom learning and real-time feedback while riding various Triumph models. From understanding riding gear to mastering modern motorcycle electronics, this immersive experience is invaluable for riders eager to sharpen their skill

Living with the Audi Q8 e-tron 55 Sportback
Living with the Audi Q8 e-tron 55 SportbackTeam evo India

Living with the Audi Q8 e-tron

The editor has a sports car for the weekend, but for every day of the week he’s thrilled to be driving the Q8 e-tron. With improved range, performance, comfort and dynamics over the e-tron could this be the only luxury car in your garage?

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