August 10 Recap: Debut of Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Phantom Blaq, Launch of new Hyundai Venue model, Toyota GR Supra adds V8 engine
The automotive world is abuzz with excitement as Maruti Suzuki unveils the Grand Vitara Phantom Blaq Edition, a special limited-edition model based on the Alpha Plus variant. This exclusive edition boasts a strong hybrid powertrain and stylish cosmetic updates, setting it apart from the standard Grand Vitara.
A Distinctive All-Black Look
The Grand Vitara Phantom Blaq Edition showcases an exclusive matte black exterior paint finish, accompanied by blacked-out 17-inch alloy wheels and dark chrome grille surrounds. This all-black theme gives the vehicle a unique and striking appearance.
Key Features and Specifications
The Phantom Blaq Edition is packed with premium features. The powertrain consists of a 1.5-litre, three-cylinder Atkinson cycle petrol engine (91 bhp) paired with an electric motor as part of the strong hybrid system.
Inside, the cabin is fully black with perforated faux leather upholstery, accented with champagne gold/copper-coloured trims. The seats are ventilated front seats, ensuring comfort even in warm weather.
The infotainment system is top-notch, with a 9-inch SmartPlay Pro+ touchscreen system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, a Clarion sound system, and a wireless phone charger. A panoramic sunroof adds to the vehicle's luxurious feel.
For safety and convenience, the Phantom Blaq Edition offers a 360-degree view camera, Head-Up Display (HUD), Suzuki Connect with smart, remote access features, and the NEXA Safety Shield suite including 6 airbags, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Hill Hold Control, Reverse Parking Sensors, 3-point seat belt reminders, and an electronic parking brake with auto hold function.
Celebrating a Decade of Nexa
This edition marks the celebration of 10 years of Maruti's Nexa retail chain. The Phantom Blaq theme aims to deliver a premium, connected, and safe driving experience, with added style.
Pricing for this edition has yet to be announced, but the base Alpha Plus trim on which it is based is priced around Rs 19.92 lakh (ex-showroom, pan-India).
Toyota GR Supra's Final Production Year
Meanwhile, Toyota is gearing up for the final production year of its iconic sports car, the GR Supra. The model will receive a naturally aspirated V8 engine and a race-ready design. The GR Supra will compete with rivals like the Chevrolet Camaro and Ford Mustang V8 in the Supercars Championship.
However, the V8-powered GR Supra will not be available for purchase at dealerships, but will be built specifically for Australia's Supercars Championship in 2026.
Other Automotive News
- Tata Motors and Jaguar Land Rover's production are not expected to be disrupted due to the rare earth magnet crisis.
- Tata Motors Group CFO P B Balaji believes that the electric vehicle production of Tata Motors and JLR will not be affected by the shortage of rare earth magnets in the foreseeable future.
- There are expected to be challenges for Tata Motors in the coming quarters, according to P B Balaji.
- The next-gen Hyundai Venue is expected to be launched on October 24, 2025.
- In its second-generation form, the Hyundai Venue will continue to rival the Skoda Kylaq, Kia Sonet, and Maruti Suzuki Brezza.
Stay tuned for more updates in the world of automobiles!
- The Grand Vitara Phantom Blaq Edition, with its luxurious features and unique all-black theme, is sure to revolutionize the automotive lifestyle, setting a new standard in the automotive industry.
- The strong hybrid powertrain and top-notch infotainment system in the Phantom Blaq Edition, along with its safety features, demonstrates Maruti Suzuki's commitment to finance and technological innovation in the transportation sector.
- As Toyota prepares for the final production year of the GR Supra, the introduction of a V8 engine and race-ready design signals an exciting era of competition and innovation in the finance and automotive industries, with major events like the Supercars Championship on the horizon.
