Maqina Magazine | Qatar Car of the Year 2021 by MAQINA

M id d le East Automoti v e News

NEW NEW ALFA ALFAROMEO ROMEOGIULIA GIULIAAND ANDSTELVIO STELVIOQUADRIFOGLIO QUADRIFOGLIO Medina Medina Centrale, Centrale, TheThe Pearl-Qatar Pearl-Qatar or email or email us atusalfaromeo@alfardan.com.qa at alfaromeo@alfardan.com.qa For For more more information information please please callcall 44209169 44209169

THE THEPOWER POWEROF OF

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JAGUAR F-TYPE

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HONDAQATAR

www.domasco.com/honda

Al Mirqab Complex 1, Khalifa Street, Near National Mosque and TV R/A

Open from Saturday to Thursday: From 8 am to 8 pm Friday: From 4 pm to 8 pm

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BEYOND THE TREND

INTELLIGENT AND TRENDY SUV

It’s trendy, it’s feature-packed, it’s GAC’s smallest SUV that’s as compact as it’s versatile. The urban city-runner ideal for small families!

Anti-pinch Power Sunroof

8” Touch Screen with Navigation

Leather Upholstery

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

Easy In-house Finance and Trade-in Options

GACQatar

www.domasco.com/gac-motor

Salwa Road, Opposite HSBC Bank

Open from: Saturday to Thursday: From 8 am to 8 pm

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EDITORIAL

WELCOME ISSUE QCOTY 21 | 2021 | Q4

Founder/Managing Director Tarek Hawchar Co-Founder Natali Leonova Motoring Editor Stephan Lewis Associate Editor Ahmed Youssef

Photographers Maria Ovsyannikova Adhil Veetil Creative Director Roman Khidko Art Editor Viktor Blashuk Graphic Designers Hana Ghemrawi Alexander Rybalku Ifteqar Ahmed Syed Image Consultant Dr. Marie Abou Rached Social Media Manager Ali Nabouch Digital Editor Hassan Shahwan

MAQINA LP

Dear Reader,

Our special issue once again features the best of the best, showcasing Qatar’s top cars in their segments, based on our in-depth testing and rigorous evaluation process. If you are looking for a new car this year, the 2021 Qatar Car Of The Year (QCOTY) winner’s list is a good place to start, with a wide range of vehicles featured. For a vehicle to enter the QCOTY winner’s circle, it must meet four key criteria: overall design, performance, safety, and finally, technological advancements. In our collective opinion, these are the best cars in Qatar for 2021, the cars we highly recommend for those looking for a car in 16 different categories—from the compact sedans and hatchback sports cars to value SUVs and super sports cars. Only those cars that stand head and shoulders above their peers, as the best currently available on the market, make it to our final list. Whether you’re in the market for a new car or not, the cars featured are sure to whet your appetite. It has been an honor to put together this special issue, so I hope you enjoy it as much as we have.

NOT FOR SALE - SUBSCRIBERS ONLY REG#3014059 LIBAN-NORD , JUMMAYZAT, BAYDOUN BLDG +961 76555132 | info@maqinaonline.com

Enjoy the issue,

w w w.maqinaonline.com

TAREK HAWCHAR FOUNDER/MANAGING DIRECTOR

WINNER 2021

BEST HATCHBACK SPORTS CAR

ABARTH 595 SCORPIONEORO

QCOTY 2021

n 2020, and almost four years after the launch of the facelifted Abarth 595 with its five versions, the Scorpion brand launched a new, very limited edition of its Abarth 595, the Scorpioneoro.

With a limited number (only 50 units for Qatar) available, the special-edition Abarth 595 Scorpioneoro pays homage to the A112 Abarth Gold Ring from 1979, thanks to its gold accents and stylish design, along with its turbocharged, 1.4-liter engine that is eager to roar into life, earning this little supercar a spot on our 2021 Qatar Car Of The Year (QCOTY) list.

QCOTY 2021

exterior The all-new limited-run Abarth 595 Scorpioneoro sets itself apart from other Abarth models, with its gold-painted 17inch alloy wheels, golden scorpion on the hood, and Abarth stickers on the doors.

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The Abarth 595 Scorpioneoro sets itself apart from other Abarth models, with its gold-painted 17-inch alloy wheels, golden scorpion on the hood, and Abarth stickers on the doors.

Adding to the aggressive and stylish appearance of the 595 Scorpioneoro is a matte black chequered flag roof and a gold accent line along the front, rear, and sides. Other key exterior highlights that are shared with the Abarth 595 range include the pronounced rear diffuser, the dual exhaust pipes that sit flush in each corner, tinted rear and side windows, and the modern LED headlights and taillights. The special-edition Abarth 595 Scorpioneoro retains the same proportions as the Abarth 595 line-up models. It measures 3571 mm in overall length, 1627 mm in width, and 1488 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2300 mm.

QCOTY 2021

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Scorpionflage front seats, black leather upholstery, personalized embroidered headrests, the matte black dashboard trim, and a gold-finished 500 logo are among the interior highlights. INTERIOR Inside, the 2021 Abarth 595 Scorpioneoro exhibits the same sporty ambiance, thanks to many Abarth-branded traits and race-inspired touches. Scorpionflage front seats, black leather upholstery, personalized embroidered headrests, the matte black dashboard trim, and a goldfinished 500 logo are among the interior highlights. The limited-run Abarth 595 Scorpioneoro also comes with the Uconnect infotainment system that is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, DAB digital radio, automatic climate control, unique floor mats, flatbottomed steering wheel, race-inspired digital instrument cluster, and a Beats sound system, to name but a few. As an added touch of exclusivity, each car also comes with a golden plaque, numbered specifically for your model, titled “Gulf Collection.” On the safety front, just like in the other Abarth models, the all-new Abarth 595 Scorpioneoro is equipped with a comprehensive list of driverassistance systems, including the advanced Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Anti Slip Regulation (ASR), Hill Holder, Fire Prevention System (FPS), and Hydraulic Brake Assistance (HBA), along with rear parking sensors and front, front-side, and curtain airbags.

QCOTY 2021

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At the heart of the special-edition 595 Scorpioneoro lies a powerful turbocharged, 1.4-liter engine that delivers 165 hp and 230 Nm of torque.

ENGINE At the heart of the special-edition 595 Scorpioneoro lies a powerful turbocharged, 1.4-liter engine that delivers 165 hp and 230 Nm of torque. The figures are truly eye-watering: the hot hatchback is capable of accelerating from zero to 100 km/h in just 7.3 seconds (with a manual gearbox), before hitting a top speed of 218 km/h. As standard, the little supercar comes with a five-speed manual transmission, but clients can also order a five-speed robotized sequential transmission with paddle shifters. The brakes are exceptionally strong thanks to the self-ventilating, perforated 284 mm discs at the front, and the perforated 240 mm discs at the rear. The 595 Scorpioneoro comes with telescopic shock absorbers with FSD (Frequency Selective Damping) at the front and Koni FSD shock absorbers at the rear to ensure exceptional handling with astounding grip and zero body roll.

VERDICT With its black-and-gold theme, a unique power-to-weight ratio of 6.5 kg/h, elegant sportiness inside and out, and a powerful 1.4-liter turbo engine, the limited-run Abarth 595 Scorpioneoro is everything we expected it to be, and more.

QCOTY 2021

WINNER 2021

BEST COMPACT LUXURY SUV

ALFA ROMEO STELVIO

QCOTY 2021

nveiled at the 2016 Los Angeles Auto Show, Alfa Romeo’s first SUV in over a century has rapidly become one of the best SUVs in its medium-sized premium segment, outshining some of its more established German rivals such as the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, and Porsche Macan. For 2021, a facelifted version of the Stelvio has been introduced with a few more standard convenience features and driver assistance systems, along with the introduction of two new trims—the Veloce and Veloce TI.

QCOTY 2021

Thanks to its sensational Italian styling, hand-crafted finishes, and charismatic characteristics, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio is a trailblazer and definitely deserves a spot on our 2021 Qatar Car of the Year (QCOTY) list.

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Thanks to its sensational Italian styling, hand-crafted finishes, and charismatic characteristics, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio is a trailblazer.

If you think the facelifted Stelvio looks the same as before, well, you aren’t exactly wrong, as the Italian luxury brand didn’t want to mess with the successful formula of the original Stelvio. However, the 2021 updated Stelvio gets four trim levels on the line: Super, Veloce, Veloce TI, and the topof-the-line Quadrifoglio. Style-wise, all four trims share the same exterior styling, including a traditional triangle grille, bi-xenon headlights, LED DRLs and taillights, distinct hood creases, a choice of 19inch or 20-inch wheels, and dual-quad exhaust pipes. The new dark appearance package of the Veloce TI adds a dark grille, black glossy DLO, and black exterior mirror caps to complete the sinister look. Dimensionally speaking, the mid-sized luxury SUV has an overall length of 4687 mm and measures 2163 mm and 1693 mm in width and height, respectively. Alfa Romeo’s first SUV also has a generous wheelbase of 2818 mm. These dimensions are more than enough to support five seats.

QCOTY 2021

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The multi-tier dashboard is still dominated by an 8.8-inch integrated infotainment color display with 3D navigation capabilities. INTERIOR Stepping inside the Stelvio, drivers will be greeted by high-quality materials, including softer padded surfaces, premium leather, aluminum accents, and wood trims. New for the 2021 model year, some trim levels get a dark headliner, and aluminum sport pedals and footrests. However, the Veloce TI adds real carbon-fiber interior accents. The multi-tier dashboard is still dominated by an 8.8-inch integrated infotainment color display with 3D navigation capabilities, while the heated leather steering wheel gets aluminum column-mounted paddle shifters. As far as standard equipment goes, the entry-level Super Stelvio variant gets leather upholstery, electric-powered heated seats, remote start, auto-dimming rearview mirror, a wireless charger, dual-zone climate control, a 14-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, a 7-inch instrument cluster, and new leather-wrapped gear shift lever. Clients that go with the Veloce grade get a black headliner, sporty leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a hands-free tailgate. The Veloce TI trim level adds front and rear parking sensors, an air quality system, an ambient lighting system, and privacy glass for the rear windows. Finally, the range-topping Stelvio Quadrifoglio gets 8-way electric-powered leather and Alcantara seats with 4-way adjustable lumbar support, among other luxurious amenities. On the safety front, the facelifted Stelvio gained an assortment of driver-assistance systems, including the Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Active Blind Spot Assist (ABSA), Driver Attention Assist (DAA), Hill Descent Control (HDC), Forward Collision Warning with Autonomous Emergency Brake, and Active Cruise Control, to name but a few.

QCOTY 2021

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The Super, Veloce, and Veloce TI models are powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 280 hp and 400 Nm of torque.

ENGINE The 2021 Stelvio is available with two engine options. The Super, Veloce, and Veloce TI models are powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 280 hp and 400 Nm of torque. Paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission sending power to the Q4 all-wheel-drive system, the four-cylinder unit enables the luxury SUV to go from zero to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds before hitting a top speed of 230 km/h. On the other hand, the range-topping Stelvio Quadrifoglio is powered by a V6, bi-turbo 2.9-liter engine, chugging out 510 hp and 600 Nm of torque, hence allowing the sportier model to go from zero to 100km/h in just 3.8 seconds, before maxing out at 283 km/h.

VERDICT With a 50:50 weight distribution, more standard luxury amenities than before, the introduction of two more trim levels, and updated safety features, the facelifted Stelvio now has everything it takes to provide an exhilarating driving experience, hence giving its German rivals a run for their money.

QCOTY 2021

WINNER 2021

BEST SELLING SUV

CHERY TIGGO 7 PRO

QCOTY 2021

he Chinese automakers have long held a reputation for building poor-quality cars.However, their quality has gradually improved over time, and Chery is one of several good examples!

Not only does it produce head-turning vehicles, but the leading Chinese automaker also has a wide selection of SUVs and crossovers, from the entry-level Tiggo 2 to the largest Tiggo 8. Though the Tiggo 8 is arguably the best of the bunch, the Tiggo 7 Pro is definitely a head-scratcher and a better version of the Tiggo 7.

QCOTY 2021

Unveiled in 2020, the Tiggo 7 Pro blends elegance and sportiness with a bit of flair and luxury, not to mention its capable 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, hi-tech gadgets, and, above all, its affordable price tag, making it the envy of its more established rivals and securing a spot on our 2021 Qatar Car of the Year (QCOTY) list.

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Style-wise, the Tiggo 7 Pro adopts a new aesthetic approach compared to its predecessor, thanks to a large chrome-trimmed grille that dominates the front fascia.

Style-wise, the Tiggo 7 Pro adopts a new aesthetic approach compared to its predecessor, thanks to a large chrometrimmed grille that dominates the front fascia, flanked by new matrix all-LED thinner headlights, while the LED daytime running lights have now been moved to the lower bumper. Moving further below, you will find a lower skid plate-like element, to complete the rugged look of the stunning SUV! Other design highlights include 18-inch alloy wheels, chrome roof rails, LED taillights that have a thin strip of lights running the entire width of the back end, a roof-integrated spoiler, and two large exhaust pipes, to name but a few. The compact SUV is 4505 mm long, 1837 mm wide, and 1670 mm tall, with a 2670 mm long wheelbase.

QCOTY 2021

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Inside, there is a unique mix of premium materials, including leather, double stitching, chrome accents, and laser drawing trim panels. INTERIOR While the exterior styling seems sporty and even bold, the Tiggo 7 Pro’s interior is a different story, upping the game for other Chinese, Korean, and Japanese rivals in the same segment. Inside, there is a unique mix of premium materials, including leather, double stitching, chrome accents, and laser drawing trim panels. The dashboard’s layout is sophisticated and has a multitude of surfaces and materials. At the center, there is a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, and moving further below, there is an 8-inch LCD touchscreen for the climate control—the latter is very similar to those we see in Land Rover models and is scratch-proof, dust-proof, and also waterproof. Aside from the 12-inch full LCD instrument cluster, the front seats are supportive and offer an ample amount of headroom and legroom. The same applies to the rear seats that can accommodate up to three passengers, albeit with slightly limited legroom for taller travelers. In terms of practicality, the Tiggo 7 Pro offers 475 liters of cargo volume, which can be increased to 1500 liters with the back seats folded. Other key interior features include a push-button starter, keyless entry, climate control with rear vents, a 1.13-meter supersized panoramic sunroof, an inductive electric trunk door, and a host of other luxury features. Speaking of safety, the Tiggo 7 Pro offers a wide range of driving-assistance features such as a total of six airbags, a high-strength steel body structure, a 360-degree camera, an anti-lock braking system (ABS), an electronic stability control (ESC), an electric brake distribution (EBD), an emergency brake assist (EBA), hill-start assist (HSA), traction control system (TCS), and tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), among other safety features.

QCOTY 2021

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Out on the road, the turbocharged fourcylinder, 1.5-liter engine responds quite well and makes the high-riding car reasonably quick.

ENGINE Under the fresh sheet metal, the new Tiggo 7 Pro benefits from a turbocharged four-cylinder, 1.5-liter engine that produces 145 hp and 210 Nm of torque. The turbocharged engine is capable of pushing the compact SUV to reach a top speed of 185 km/h. Power is transferred to the front wheels through a six-speed auto transmission (DCT). Out on the road, the engine responds quite well and makes the high-riding car reasonably quick. However, don’t expect a sharper throttle response or much heavier steering. The ample ground clearance means you won’t worry about the potholes or bumps on the road, though!

VERDICT The Chery Tiggo 7 Pro is arguably the best-looking car the Chinese carmaker has ever made. It also comes with a fully equipped, spacious 5-seat interior, state-of-the-art gadgets, and everything you need and more in terms of safety features. In short, it is a very good package for its price, compared to other compact crossovers currently available on the market!

QCOTY 2021

WINNER 2021

BEST CONVERTIBLE SPORTS CAR

FERRARI PORTOFINO M

QCOTY 2021

nveiled in late 2020 as an updated version of the grand tourer Portofino, the Ferrari Portofino M is a game-changer in its open-door GT segment, thanks to a series of updates inside and out, and most importantly, the Roma’s 620 hp, twin-turbo V8 engine and a brand-new eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox. Adding the letter “M”—short for Modificata or modified—to the outgoing Portofino means that the latest convertible has the edge over the California T’s replacement, which arrived some three years ago. With its better-looking appearance,

QCOTY 2021

sharper handling, and updated interior materials, the new Portofino M is undoubtedly worth an indelible spot on our 2021 Qatar Car of the Year (QCOTY) list.

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Adding the letter “M”—short for Modificata or modified—to the outgoing Portofino means that the latest convertible has the edge over the California T’s replacement, which arrived some three years ago.

Style-wise, the Portofino M, which is named after a glamorous seaside resort on the Italian Riviera, received only a handful of exterior updates compared to the outgoing model. Key exterior changes include a revamped front bumper with large intakes, new aluminum slats on the grille, a new air vent at wheel arch height to reduce drag, and a redesigned rear diffuser, to name but a few. Dedicated diamond-finish wheels, a new exhaust system with quad pipes, and a retractable hard-top roof that can be raised or lowered in just 14 seconds, are among the new style tweaks that aim to keep the newcomer crisp enough for a couple more years. In terms of dimensions, the facelifted Portofino has an overall length of 4594 mm and measures 1938 mm and 1318 mm in width and height, respectively, with a 2670 mm long wheelbase.

QCOTY 2021

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Ferrari updated the interior materials and added new color combinations to make the new frontengined GT look fresh and modern. INTERIOR The facelifted exterior would require a careful examination to notice any changes, and the same can be said of the interior. The cabins of the facelifted version and the standard Portofino are almost identical. Unfortunately, the Portofino M’s cockpit didn’t get a similar dashboard to the Roma—something that might slightly disappoint the Prancing Horse’s fans. However, Ferrari updated the interior materials and added new color combinations to make the new front-engined GT look fresh and modern. Buyers can now choose leather and/or Alcantara, along with carbon-fiber and aluminum trim—superior materials compared to rivals in the same segment. Other notable changes inside include the “M” badge on the dashboard, the new race-inspired style of the three-spoke steering wheel, and the supportive slim-backed seats—all add a touch of sportiness and elegance to the cabin. Like most grand tourers, Ferrari Portofino M hosts a wide range of driverassist systems. The updated range of the advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) now includes Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop&Go function, Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Departure Warning, Predictive Emergency Brake System, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Traffic Sign Recognition, and Surround View with 3D Display.

QCOTY 2021

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At the heart of the facelifted Portofino lies the outgoing model’s twin-turbo, 3.9-liter V8 engine. But the eight-cylinder mill gains the same technical updates as the Roma’s drivetrain.

ENGINE At the heart of the facelifted Portofino lies the outgoing model’s twin-turbo, 3.9-liter V8 engine. But the eight-cylinder mill gains the same technical updates as the Roma’s drivetrain. The increase in valve lift and the optimized combustion chamber filling of the V8 engine result in an increase of 20 hp over the standard Portofino (620 hp), while the peak torque remains identical at 760 Nm. The V8 mill is mated now to the SF90 Stradale-derived eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox, sending power to the rear wheels as before. Another update is the five-position Manettino with Race mode, an absolute first for a Ferrari grand tourer. The new Portofino M still incorporates Ferrari’s dynamics control system called Side Slip Control. Now in its sixth generation, the SSC is integrated with the E-Diff, F1-TCS, the magnetorheological suspension (SCM-E FRS), and the Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer (FDE) control systems.

VERDICT Though it is almost 100 kg heavier than the Roma, the new open sportster from Maranello is a supercar that does so many things. With its capable 620-hp V8 engine, elevated driving comforts, sharpened looks, and agile handling, the Portofino M is an “everyday” all-rounder that still provides a sensual open-door driving experience that remains unrivalled.

QCOTY

WINNER 2021

BEST HYBRID SUPERCAR

FERRARI SF90 SPIDER

QCOTY

ne year after unveiling Ferrari’s first-ever plugin hybrid, the SF90 Stradale, the Prancing Horse brand launched the Spider trim in 2020, aiming to offer its customers the best of both worlds—the blistering performance of its coupe sibling and the infinite headroom of the convertible!

QCOTY 2021

The new Ferrari SF90 Spider features the same plug-in hybrid powertrain as its coupe sibling, with a twin-turbo, 4.0-liter V8 engine coupled with three electric motors, along with a retractable hardtop to deliver a sensual, unmatched driving experience, making the sexy convertible worth a spot on our 2021 Qatar Car of the Year (QCOTY) list.

exterior Looking instantly recognizable, the SF90 Spider looks identical to the fixed-roof, two-door coupe trim. The Spider trim shares the same aggressive, V-shaped front fascia, and the C-shaped LED headlights with its coupe sibling.

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Looking instantly recognizable, the SF90 Spider looks identical to the fixed-roof, two-door coupe trim.

Moving to the rear, the latest Maranello creation also has a rear fascia that’s identical to its Stradale sibling’s, including the rectangular, quad-LED taillights, a twin rear diffuser borrowed from the motorsport world, and a center-mounted exhaust system. Along with the more raked windshield, the SF90 Spider sets itself apart from the coupe trim with the retractable hardtop built from aluminum, making it 40 kg lighter than a conventional retractable hardtop. The latest convertible also comes with an adjustable electric rear window that takes only 14 seconds to open and close. In terms of dimensions, the new SF90 Spider has an overall length of 4704 mm and measures 1973 mm and 1191 mm in width and height, respectively, with a 2649 mm long wheelbase. QCOTY 2021

QCOTY 2021

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Being an open-top GT, the latest Ferrari convertible’s roof has been lowered by 20 mm, while the A-pillars are now thinner compared to the Stradale trim. INTERIOR Moving to the Ferrari SF90 Spider’s interior, one can say that it’s almost like it has been lifted from the Stradale version. In other words, drivers will find the same large 16-inch curved HD digital instrument cluster, providing all the information they need and many personalization options. Elsewhere, there is a wide selection of high-quality, lightweight materials, including premium leather, carbon-fiber, and aluminum finishes. The flat-bottomed steering wheel now includes a touchpad and touch-sensitive controls to allow drivers to control car functions using their thumbs. Like the coupe trim, the Ferrari SF90 Spider also features a futuristic head-up display to present information on the windshield just in front of the drivers. Being an open-top GT, the latest Ferrari convertible’s roof has been lowered by 20 mm, while the A-pillars are now thinner compared to the Stradale trim. With the roof folded down, the central trim section between the driver and passenger seats channels air away from the head and shoulders. On the safety front, the SF90 Spider features Ferrari’s dynamics control system— the electronic Side Slip Control (eSSC). There’re also the F1-TCS, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), E-Diff3, and Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer (FDE) systems, along with side impact beams, rear parking sensors, and a backup camera.

QCOTY 2021

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The plug-in hybrid powertrain is powerful enough to push the SF90 Spider from zero to 100 km/h in 2.5 seconds, and to 200 km/h in 7.0 seconds, before hitting a top speed of 340 km/h.

ENGINE Under the fresh sheet metal, the all-new Ferrari SF90 Spider is equipped with a twin-turbo, 4.0-liter V8 engine—derived from the 499 Pista—delivering 780 hp and 800 Nm of torque. This V8 mill is paired to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The latest Ferrari convertible also benefits from three electric motors: one on each of the front wheels, and one on the transmission. These three motors add 220 hp to the internal combustion engine, raising the total output of the hybrid drivetrain to 1000 hp and 900 Nm of torque, and giving the SF90 Spider AWD. The plug-in hybrid powertrain is powerful enough to push the SF90 Spider from zero to 100 km/h in 2.5 seconds, and to 200 km/h in 7.0 seconds, before hitting a top speed of 340 km/h. Ferrari developed four driving modes for its convertible version of the SF90: eDrive, Hybrid, Performance, and Qualify. The eDrive is an all-electric mode, while the Hybrid is the default one that focuses on the efficiency of the internal combustion engine. The Performance mode keeps the V8 engine running all the time, and finally, the Qualify mode focuses on providing as blistering a performance as possible.

VERDICT Though it is 100 kg heavier than the Stradale sibling (1670 kg), the 2021 Ferrari SF90 Spider is undoubtedly an astonishing beast that delivers thrilling performance and otherworldly handling, thanks to its 1000-hp plug-in-hybrid powertrain that combines a lithium-ion battery, three electric motors, and a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine.

QCOTY 2021

CAR REVIEW

GAC GS3

QCOTY 2021

he Chinese carmaker GAC Motor has a wide selection of SUVs in all shapes and sizes. There is the entry-level GS3, the compact GS4 and GS5, the mid-size GS7, and finally, the 7-seat, full-size GS8.

Speaking of the GS3, it is definitely one of the most stunning subcompact SUVs currently available on the market. Debuted at the 2017 Chengdu Auto Show and the 2018 Detroit Auto Show, the subcompact crossover adopts the same modern styling as the larger GS4. Compared to its more established rivals in the market, it has a nice well-equipped interior, a plethora of safety and tech features, and a choice of two gasoline engines.

QCOTY 2021

exterior Looking instantly recognizable, the new GS3 adopts GAC Motor’s latest design language, namely, the Light and Shadow Sculpting 2.0 Design. The entry-level crossover incorporates the cleaner lines of its bigger sibling, the GS4, but in a more urban-oriented package.

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Debuted at the 2017 Chengdu Auto Show and the 2018 Detroit Auto Show, the subcompact crossover adopts the same modern styling as the larger GS4.

The chrome-accented grille is flanked by a pair of halogen, eagle-eye lens headlights. Other highlights include the modern DRLs, subtle crease lines on the hood, a silver-trim element acting as a faux skid plate, a sloping roofline, chrome roof rails, 18-inch alloy wheels, horizontal LED taillights, and a diffuser-like element to complete the sporty and rugged look of the GS3. Slotting below the GS4, the subcompact crossover is 4350 mm long, 1825 mm wide, and 1655 mm tall, with a 2560 mm long wheelbase.

QCOTY 2021

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The uncluttered dashboard is dominated by a wide, 8-inch high-definition infotainment touchscreen with seamless smartphone integration, flanked by vertical A/C vents. INTERIOR The GS3’s two-tone interior is a lovely place to sit. The uncluttered dashboard is dominated by a wide, 8-inch high-definition infotainment touchscreen with seamless smartphone integration, flanked by vertical A/C vents. Elsewhere, there is a mixture of hard and soft-touch materials, including two-tone (black and brown) leather upholstery with nice stitching and chrome accents in a matte finish—the latter can be traced on the mattechrome gear lever inspired by aircraft levers. Depending on the trim level, other features to highlight inside the inviting cockpit include automatic climate control with rear vents, auto-dimming rearview mirror, a colored LCD instrument cluster, leather-wrapped threespoke multi-function steering wheel, GPS 3D voice navigation system, keyless entry, a rear USB charging interface, and push-start button, to name but a few. Though space inside the GS3 is obviously scarce, there is still just enough room for two passengers in the rear seat—with limited legroom. Open up the boot, and you will find 370 liters of cargo space, which can be increased to 780 liters with the back seats folded. On the safety front, the GS3 offers a long list of driving-assistance features such as the front, side, and curtain airbags (a total of 6 airbags), adaptive cruise control, electronic parking brake (EPB), and tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), along with an anti-lock braking system (ABS), an electronic stability program (ESP), and an electric brake distribution (EBD).

QCOTY 2021

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The base 1.5-liter naturally aspirated mill delivers 113 hp and 150 Nm of torque, while the 1.3-liter turbocharged engine produces 135 hp and 202 Nm of torque.

ENGINE In Qatar, the new GS3 is offered with a choice of two engines. The base 1.5-liter naturally aspirated mill delivers 113 hp and 150 Nm of torque, while the more powerful 1.3-liter turbocharged engine produces 135 hp and 202 Nm of torque. Overall, the turbo engine drives the GS3 along just nicely, with a little turbo lag still detectable, as expected! Both drivetrains send power to the front wheels through a six-speed Aisin automatic gearbox. In terms of the suspension, the GS3 rides on a McPherson-strut front suspension and twist-beam suspension at the rear. This layout leans toward comfort rather than sheer performance.

VERDICT With its bold, modern styling, well-equipped interior with plenty of standard features, state-of-the-art technology, a choice of two four-cylinder engines, and, above all, its affordable price tag, the GAC GS3 returns an excellent value for money, so no wonder it is worth a spot on our 2021 Qatar Car of the Year (QCOTY) list.

QCOTY 2021

WINNER 2021

BEST MID-SIZE SUV

HONDA PILOT

QCOTY 2021

ver since the original Honda Pilot was launched, particularly in 2002, it has focused on practicality and opulence, while prioritizing on-road comfort over off-road performance. In 2016, the current thirdgeneration Pilot arrived, and almost three years later, the fullsize SUV received a mid-cycle refresh. Seating eight in three rows, the 2021 Honda Pilot received mild styling updates with modern LED headlights and some modern touches here and there, in addition to the introduction of the new Pilot Special Edition (SE) that sports some exclusive features.

QCOTY 2021

Aside from the mild tweaks inside and out, the powertrain of the latest Pilot remains unchanged, with a powerful and efficient 280-hp, 3-5-liter engine, giving the modern family SUV an edge over its rivals, hence earning a spot on our 2021 Qatar Car of the Year’s (QCOTY) list.

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Design-wise, though the new updates on the exterior are minimal, the Japanese carmaker was keen to give its full-size SUV a modern look.

Design-wise, though the new updates on the exterior are minimal, the Japanese carmaker was keen to give its fullsize SUV a modern look, thanks to the bold front grille with aggressive chrome accents, revamped full-LED headlights and fog lights, a new design for the alloy wheels that come in 18-inch and 20-inch sizes, roof spoiler, squared-out wheel arches, and a hands-free rear liftgate, to name but a few. The Pilot Special Edition (SE) adds a black grille, black front and rear lower plastic claddings, black roof rails, and a Special Edition badge to complete the exclusive and premium look. In terms of dimensions, the all-new Pilot has an overall length of 5004 mm and measures 2296 mm (including door mirrors) and 1794 mm in width and height, respectively. The wheelbase is 2818 mm.

QCOTY 2021

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The roomy cabin also gets a cutting-edge infotainment system with an 8.0-inch touchscreen compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. INTERIOR Moving into the cabin, drivers will find a modern digital instrument cluster display that is user-friendly and easy to read—located between the two analog clocks. The roomy cabin also gets a cutting-edge infotainment system with an 8.0-inch touchscreen compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. As for the rear passengers, they now enjoy the latest-generation Rear Entertainment System (RES). With ceiling-mounted 10.2-inch display swings down, the RES supports Blue-Ray and video streaming, while featuring a 115-volt power outlet and HDMI interface. Aside from the four-spoke leather steering wheel with paddle shifters and the tri-zone automatic climate control, the latest Pilot’s interior is spacious and practical. With its three-row seating configuration, the 2021 Honda Pilot is undeniably one of the roomiest SUVs in its segment. Other amenities inside the updated cabin include rear air conditioning ducts in the second and thirdrow seats, an advanced navigation system, a power-adjustable driver seat, heated seats, a wireless mobile charger, and a panoramic sunroof, among others. The family SUV has a wide list of traditional safety features, including the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with smart traction control function, and Hill Start Assist (HSA). But, at the same time, the full-size SUV gets a full set of driver-assistance technologies with the Honda Sensing package, such as the Forward-Collision Alert with automated emergency braking, Blind Spot Information System, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with the low-speed following function, Rear Cross Traffic Monitor, Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), and Lane Departure Warning (LDW).

QCOTY 2021

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Under the hood, there is a 3.5-liter direct-injected V6 engine, delivering 280 hp at 6000 rpm and 355 Nm of torque at 4700 rpm.

ENGINE Under the hood, there is a 3.5-liter direct-injected V6 engine, delivering 280 hp at 6000 rpm and 355 Nm of torque at 4700 rpm. Coupled with a new nine-speed automatic transmission, the sixcylinder mill also comes with the Variable Cylinder Management technology (VCM) to minimize fuel consumption. The 2021 Pilot is available in both front and four-wheel-drive versions. The standard EX variant is available in 2WD or AWD forms, while the EX-L, Special Edition, and Touring trim levels come only with AWD with no low-range gearing. With the four-wheel drive technology and the intelligent traction system, the new Pilot can now be driven on all roads and in all weather conditions.

VERDICT The 2021 Honda Pilot is undoubtedly the best version of the current third generation, thanks to its whole set of advanced driver assistance systems, the rigid ACE body structure, a luxurious and roomy three-row cabin, and a potent and efficient V-6 engine. It is safe to say that the 2021 Honda Pilot is one of the best SUVs in its segment.

QCOTY 2021

THE NEW NISSAN PATROL 2022 KEEP CONQUERING

Nissan Qatar

nissanqatar.com Main Showroom - Salwa Road

Al Sadd Showroom

Bin Omran Showroom

4428 3333 Barwa Showroom

Al Khor Showroom

THE NEW NISSAN PATROL 2022 KEEP CONQUERING

Nissan Qatar

nissanqatar.com Main Showroom - Salwa Road

Al Sadd Showroom

Bin Omran Showroom

4428 3333 Barwa Showroom

Al Khor Showroom

WINNER 2021

BEST VALUE LUXURY SEDAN

HONGQI H9

QCOTY 2021

n the ultra-luxury full-size saloon market, the traditional territory of Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7-Series, and Rolls-Royce Ghost, there are very few Chinese cars, with the segment dominated by the German and British brands!

China’s Hongqi—the oldest passenger car marque, founded in 1958, and now under the umbrella of FAW Group—is trying to change that norm with the latest addition to its line-up models, the H9. First unveiled in early 2020 before being launched in Dubai in December 2020, the full-size executive saloon H9 has already borrowed some design cues from the Rolls-Royce Ghost, thanks to the former Rolls Royce head of design, Giles Taylor,

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who joined the Chinese luxury brand as global vice president of design and chief creative officer back in 2018. Aside from Giles’ design input, the H9 is an old-school luxury cruiser with a superb, ultra-luxurious and spacious interior, and a choice of four-cylinder and V6 engines, hence deserving a spot on our 2021 Qatar Car of the Year (QCOTY) list.

exterior Visually, the influences from the creation of Rolls-Royce, BMW, and Maybach are obvious on the outside, as the H9 has a large, classic waterfall grille that gives the executive saloon a luxurious look.

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Visually, the influences from the creation of Rolls-Royce, BMW, and Maybach are obvious on the outside, as the H9 has a large waterfall grille that gives the executive saloon a luxurious look.

Moving further back, there are sleeker lines extending from the headlamps to the rear, eye-catching alloy wheels, a hatchback-like rear window, pop-out door handles, a sleek rear-end, and finally, an LED light bar running the entire width of the back end, to name but a few. Speaking of dimensions, the luxury cruiser has an overall length of 5137 mm, and measures 1905 mm and 1493 mm in width and height, respectively. It also sits on a 3060 mm wheelbase. Hongqi’s efforts to give the H9 a more ultraluxurious feel and premium design are not limited to the exterior, as the interior has been carefully crafted to delight passengers. It’s amazing how everything fits together inside the car with a greater sense of cohesion and spaciousness! The cabin is dominated by two-tone color schemes, and offers a mix of high-quality materials, including premium

QCOTY 2021

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The full-size luxury sedan offers seating for four by providing zero-gravity seats at the back, hence offering plenty of space in terms of headroom and legroom.

INTERIOR leather, chrome-plated accents, black piano trims, and wood grains to please luxury customers. The flagship sedan’s cabin feels more luxurious and inviting, thanks to the three-spoke leather steering wheel with silver piping, the panoramic roof, and two large screens for the infotainment system and instrument cluster. Other key interior highlights include the 253-color ambient lighting system, 4-zone climate control, a 14-speaker Bose audio system, 12-inch headup display (HUD), a video-streaming rearview mirror, front and rear seat ventilation, active noise control, and an AQS air quality monitoring system, among other luxurious amenities. The full-size luxury sedan offers seating for four by providing zero-gravity seats at the back, hence offering plenty of space in terms of headroom and legroom. On the safety front, the H9 gains an assortment of driver-assistance systems, including blind-spot detection (BSD), lane-departure warning (LDW), lane keep assist (LKA), and advanced cruise control. The flagship sedan also includes a speed limitation warning system, forward collision warning (FCW), autonomous emergency brake (AEB), and a 360-degree camera system.

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The H9 is available in two engine options: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, and a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 mill.

ENGINE Under the fresh sheet metal, the H9 is available in Qatar in two engine options. The base model is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 250 hp and 380 Nm of torque. Performance-driven customers can opt for the more powerful 3.0-liter supercharged V6 engine, pushing out 281 hp and 400 Nm of torque. Both powertrains are mated with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, sending power to the rear wheels. The 3.0-liter variant comes with an air suspension system to respond better to surface conditions and adapt to different driving situations.

VERDICT The new Hongqi H9 is a compelling full-size luxury saloon that offers the best value proposition in its segment, thanks to its goodlooking appearance, excellent driving quality, a wide range of eyepopping luxury amenities, and a plethora of driving assistance features.

QCOTY 2021

WINNER 2021

BEST PERFORMANCE SUV

JAGUAR F-PACE SVR

QCOTY 2021

n August 2020, Jaguar Land Rover launched a facelifted version of Jaguar’s first SUV— the F-Pace—with a bunch of new features and the introduction of the R-Dynamic Black variant. Two months later, the performance version of the SUV—the F-Pace SVR—was also updated for the 2021 model year.

The 2021 Jaguar F-Pace SVR comes with a few tweaks inside and out, but the most important change is the 5.0-liter supercharged V8 engine, which now has more torque, allowing the flagship model to accelerate more quickly and hit a higher top speed. Overall, the new F-Pace SVR is a unique performance SUV that is definitely worth a spot on our 2021 Qatar Car of the Year’s (QCOTY) list.

QCOTY 2021

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Clearly influenced by the 2021 facelifted F-Pace, the all-new F-Pace SVR features revised front and rear fascias.

Clearly influenced by the 2021 facelifted F-Pace, the all-new F-Pace SVR features revised front and rear fascias, making the performance SUV sharper and more aggressive. Key exterior features include new, slimmer all-LED headlights with Double J daytime running lights, a refreshed front grille with SVR badging, a wider power bulge on the hood, new LED taillights, and new 22-inch wheels in Gloss Narvik Black with Satin Grey inserts. The new vents and apertures not only improve cooling for the powertrain and brakes, but also reduce lift by 35 percent and drag coefficient from 0.37 Cd to 0.36 Cd. Dimensionally speaking, the new SUV is 4747mm long, 2071 mm wide, and 1664 mm tall, with a 2874 mm long wheelbase.

QCOTY 2021

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Aside from the SVR badging here and there, there is a new 11.4-inch, curved-glass infotainment touchscreen system, replacing the old 10-inch touchscreen. INTERIOR A glimpse inside the 2021 F-Pace SVR’s interior will definitely catch you off guard. It is now equipped with more premium materials and upgraded gadgets. To start off, there are Alcantara finishes on the seats and doors, while other elements are upholstered in Windsor leather. The drive selector has also been upgraded for “a more performancefocused feel.” Aside from the SVR badging here and there, there is a new 11.4-inch, curved-glass infotainment touchscreen system, replacing the old 10-inch touchscreen. The new display now runs on Jaguar Land Rover’s latest Pivi Pro infotainment system that features Apple CarPlay as standard, and Android Auto as optional. This state-of-the-art technology includes simplified menus and over-the-air updates. Other highlights include a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, an optional head-up display, a steering wheel with a zinc-alloy material for the shifter paddles, and a premium Meridian sound system, among other features. Overall, the refreshed F-Pace SVR feels roomy on the inside. The seats are comfortable even at the back, providing enough legroom for adults. That being said, there are 960 mm and 952 mm of headroom in the front and rear seats, respectively. Similarly, the front seats offer a class-best 1023 mm of legroom, while the rear seats have a maximum legroom of 944 mm. On the safety front, the all-new F-Pace SVR offers a wide range of driving-assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, a Clear Exit Monitor system, an emergency braking system, and a lane keep assist, to name but a few. QCOTY 2021

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The facelifted F-Pace SVR features the same 5.0-liter supercharged V8 engine, pumping out 550 hp, but the torque output has been increased by 20 Nm, to 700 Nm.

ENGINE Just like the previous model, the facelifted F-Pace SVR features the same 5.0-liter supercharged V8 engine, pumping out 550 hp, but the torque output has been increased by 20 Nm, to 700 Nm. The updated eight-cylinder mill is paired with a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission, which transfers power to the four wheels. This is the same gearbox used in the Jaguar XE SV Project 8 sedan. With a new Dynamic Launch function, the performance SUV is capable of reaching 100 km/h from a standstill in just 4 seconds, before maxing out at 286 km/h. The new F-Pace SVR also comes with an electronically controlled active rear differential and torque vectoring by braking. In terms of the suspension, the dampers are re-tuned to provide a more refined ride at low speed. The massive brakes have also been upgraded with a new integrated Power Booster that improves the braking performance and offers more confidence on all roads, and in all conditions.

VERDICT The 2021 Jaguar F-Pace SVR is a good-looking SUV with a set of exterior tweaks that directly impact the vehicle’s capabilities. As for the interior, the performance-focused SUV’s cabin is definitely better than the previous model’s in terms of technology and luxury amenities. Overall performance is also excellent, thanks to the increased torque and better performance figures.

QCOTY 2021

WINNER 2021

BEST SUV

LAND ROVER DEFENDER

QCOTY 2021

ince being unveiled in 1983, the Land Rover Defender had been roaming our streets with grit, boldness, and rigidity until it was discontinued in 2016. Almost four years later, Jaguar Land Rover decided to revive its nameplate by introducing an all-new Defender that is a far cry from the old Defender we all knew! For almost three decades, the legendary off-roader had been a massive hit for the British luxury carmaker, but despite its incredibly long lifespan, the original Defender was starting to show its age. Creating a second-generation Defender was the right choice for Jaguar Land Rover, as the new Defender is now the British brand’s best-seller, just ahead of the Evoque, for the first time in its history!

QCOTY 2021

With its five-, six-, or seven-seat configuration, all-aluminum monocoque architecture, modern, yet boxy styling, and, above all, a plethora of cutting-edge gadgets, the current allnew Defender is meant to make life a lot harder for the likes of Jeep Wrangler, Mercedes-Benz G-Class, and Toyota 4Runner, hence earning a spot on our 2021 Qatar Car of the Year’s (QCOTY) list.

exterior If you think the second-generation Defender looks the same as the previous model, you’d be wrong—it’s a different beast that has taken a different design path. However, the designers also managed to incorporate cues from the past, including the classic boxy styling, the semicircular headlights, upright windscreen, and the rear-mounted spare tires.

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Creating a second-generation Defender was the right choice for Jaguar Land Rover, as the new Defender is now the British brand’s best-seller.

On the other hand, say goodbye to the separate front bumper and the old-style engine lid, and customers can now choose from seven different exterior colors, including the Pangea Green, Fuji White, and the Tasman Blue. In terms of the dimensions, the new Defender comes, as always, in two sizes: the Defender 90 features a 2587mm wheelbase, and the Defender 110 has a 3022-mm wheelbase. The Defender 90 has an overall length of 4323 mm and measures 2008 mm and 1974 mm in width and height, respectively. However, the Defender 110 has an overall length of 4758 mm and measures 2008 mm and 1967 mm in width and height, respectively.

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The standard model offers a five-seat layout; however, you can order it with an extra seat in the front. There’s a third 5+2 configuration, with two small seats added as a third row. INTERIOR Despite the fact that Land Rover has been associated with premium cars, at least in the past decade, the original Defender’s cabin remained rugged and quite rough. Step inside the all-new Defender, and you’ll find a whole different story. There’s a 12.3-inch “Interactive Driver Display” behind the new four-spoke steering wheel, while a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system dominates the dashboard—the latter has a magnesium beam that runs the full width of the dashboard. The gear lever and ignition switch aren’t mounted on the center console. Instead, they’re on the center stack! In terms of seating, the new Defender can be ordered with different seating setups. The standard model offers a five-seat layout; however, you can order it with an extra seat in the front. There’s a third 5+2 configuration, with two small seats added as a third row. The new Defender also comes with a long list of features, depending on the trim level. Key features include Windsor leather upholstery for front seats with heating and ventilation functions, a digital rearview mirror, a panoramic sunroof, and a 10-speaker Meridian sound system delivering 400 watts, to name but a few. On the safety front, there are plenty of hi-tech, driving-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, a blind spot monitoring system, lane departure warning, and emergency braking, among others.

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The all-new Defender is available in GCC countries in two engine sizes: a 2.0-liter twin-turbo four-cylinder engine, and a 3.0-liter V6 engine.

ENGINE Under the fresh sheet metal, the all-new Defender is available in GCC countries in two engine sizes. There’s a 2.0-liter twin-turbo four-cylinder engine (P300) that produces 300 hp and 400 Nm of torque. It takes 7.4 seconds to go from zero to 100 km/h, before reaching a top speed of 191 km/h. The second powertrain for the P400 model is a 3.0-liter V6 engine that delivers 400 hp and 550 Nm of torque. The six-cylinder petrol pump enables the rugged SUV to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 6 seconds, before reaching a top speed of 191 km/h. Power is channeled to the four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. Speaking of the superb off-road capabilities, the new Defender has a twin-speed transfer box that is responsible for distributing power between the front and rear axles.

VERDICT With modern architecture, a refreshed look, and a plethora of cutting-edge technology available with the fanciest of the Land Rover siblings, the all-new Defender is a living example of how to revive a nameplate to appeal to 21st-century customers—those who are looking for something different with legendary off-road capabilities.

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WINNER 2021

BEST SUPER SPORTS CAR

MASERATI MC20

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illed as a “super sports car,” the Maserati MC20 is not only a natural evolution of the Ferrari-based MC12 introduced some 15 years ago, but it also marks the beginning of an era for the Trident brand, thanks to its superb performance, refined sportiness, and ultimate luxury. Maserati’s fourth mid-engined car, following the Bora, Merak, and MC12, is designed to rival the Italian, German, and British supercars such as the Lamborghini Huracan Evo, Ferrari F8

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Tributo, Audi R8, and McLaren 720 S. Its most important feature is the “Nettuno” engine lying under the hood—an allnew twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine, chugging out 630 hp and 730 Nm of torque. The new MC20 is a genuine contender for the 2021 Qatar Car of the Year (QCOTY) award thanks to its many virtues.

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In terms of exterior design, Maserati’s first full-blown supercar in 15 years is a radical departure from the company’s current models, and even its previous sports car, the MC12.

In terms of exterior design, Maserati’s first full-blown supercar in 15 years is a radical departure from the company’s current models, and even its previous sports car, the MC12. Designed at the Centro Stile Maserati in Turin, the MC20 features a big oval grille, flanked by two vertical LED headlights at the top and irregular vents at the bottom. Other key exterior highlights include a prominent front splitter, sizeable cooling vents on the hood, aerodynamic side skirts, recessed door handles, a dual exhaust system, 20-inch wheels, LED taillights, and a large rear diffuser, to name but a few. The flagship supercar has an overall length of 4669 mm and measures 1965 mm and 1221 mm in width and height, respectively, with a wheelbase that spans 2700 mm.

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Drivers will find a simple and clean interior thanks to the leather-wrapped dashboard with an MC20 badge on the passenger side and a carbon fiber-clad center console.

INTERIOR Drivers will find a simple and clean interior thanks to the leatherwrapped dashboard with an MC20 badge on the passenger side and a carbon fiber-clad center console. There is a 10-inch infotainment screen on the dashboard, and a row of three buttons lies just under it. These buttons include the drive mode selector, which has five driving modes: GT, Wet, Sport, Corsa, and ESC Off. Other notable interior features include a 10-inch all-digital instrument cluster, a smartphone pad with a wireless charger, Sabelt seats, a 12-speaker, 695-watt Sonus Faber audio system, and a carbon fiber steering wheel. On the technology front, the MC20 is fitted with Maserati’s latest MIA multimedia system, powered by an Android Automotive operating system. There’s also the Maserati Connect—a modern connectivity program that provides valuable information on the MC20’s performance and health.

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At the heart of the all-new Maserati MC20 lies a twin-turbo, 3.0-liter V6 engine that pushes out 630 hp and 730 Nm of torque.

ENGINE At the heart of the all-new Maserati MC20 lies a twin-turbo, 3.0-liter V6 engine that pushes out 630 hp and 730 Nm of torque. The stateof-the-art mill is “100% made in Modena”, unlike Maserati’s V8 engine that was jointly developed with Ferrari. The “Nettuno” engine is paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission sending power to the rear wheels via a limited-slip differential. With its authentic Maserati design, the V6 mill can make the MC20 hit 100 km/h in less than 2.9 seconds, before hitting a top speed of 325 km/h. The super sports car also features five driving modes—each is identified by its own color. With its soft suspension setup, the GT Mode blue is perfect for everyday driving. In wet conditions, the Wet Mode green will prevent skidding during hard cornering or acceleration. Track use calls for the Sport Mode red, which provides the highest level of performance. The Corsa Mode yellow is recommended for those who prefer a hardcore driving experience. The ECS Off Mode orange is similar to the Corsa’s, but it completely disables the traction control system. Maserati’s MC20 supercar comes with a central carbon-fiber monocoque and double wishbone suspension with a semi-virtual steering system to manage its enormous power. Stopping the MC20 involves carbon-ceramic Brembo brake calipers. There are 390 mm six-piston calipers at the front and 360 mm four-piston calipers at the rear.

VERDICT Though it comes with a smaller engine with fewer cylinders, the all-new MC20 is an entirely different supercar than its predecessor, the MC12, and is just as powerful as the latter. The new super sports car has all that it takes to compete against other Italian and British supercars, thanks to its stunning look, refined interior, cutting-edge techs, powerful 630-hp V6 engine, and, above all, its best-in-class weight to power ratio of 2.33 kg/hp.

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WINNER 2021

BEST VALUE SUV

MAXUS D60

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f you were asked about the Chinese brand Maxus and its vehicles in the GCC countries, the first models that would probably spring to mind are the pickup T60 and the full-size SUV D90, along with a bunch of vans and MPVs. The general image of the Shanghai Automotive Industrial Company’s (SAIC Motors) sub-brand in the Middle East has been one that leans towards ruggedness, practicality, and dependability. This was a time before the arrival of Maxus’ stylish and luxurious midsize SUV—the all-new Maxus D60. First launched at the 2019 Shanghai Auto Show, the seven-seat SUV is a true feast for the eyes, thanks to its striking bodylines, premiumlooking cabin, and hi-tech, driver-focused technologies.

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We had the chance to climb behind the wheel of one of the most beautifully designed and high-tech midsize SUVs available on the market and discovered what makes the Maxus D60 outshine other more established rivals out there, including Toyota RAV4, GAC GS4, and Geely Azkarra

exterior Aesthetically, the Maxus D60’s exterior has a unique design that is certainly not a copycat of any other model on the market. However, we can also trace some design cues inspired by the Maxus Tarantula Concept showcased at the 2018 Beijing Auto Show, particularly those related to the front and rear ends.

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While the exterior styling is modern and elegant, Maxus D60 drivers will be greeted by a sophisticated interior.

Depending on the trim level, some design highlights include a large black chrome-accented grille, a pair of full-LED matrix headlights, vertical fog lamps, and side mirrors with integrated LED turn signals, to name but a few. Moving further back, we can see a choice of 17-inch or 19-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, modern taillights with a fullwidth LED strip across the rear end, dual exhaust tips, and a roof spoiler to further complete the premium, sporty look. Slotting below the D90, the midsize SUV is 4720 mm long, 1857 mm wide, and 1732 mm tall, with a 2760 mm long wheelbase.

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In terms of practicality, the new D60 has a spacious enough interior to carry up to seven passengers on board.

INTERIOR While the exterior styling is modern and elegant, Maxus D60 drivers will be greeted by a sophisticated interior, which features high-quality materials and is well equipped with all sorts of electronic gadgetry. Being the most elegant among all Maxus’ line-up models, the interior of the seven-seat SUV exudes luxury and glamour. The first thing to jump out is the dashboard. It is dominated by an 8-inch high-resolution infotainment touchscreen and a fully digital instrument panel. Unfortunately, the larger 14-inch Tesla-like touchscreen with a hi-tech, built-in Banma operating system is not available in the region, even in the top-of-the-line variant, though we can find it in other markets! The all-new Maxus D60 is available in Qatar and other GCC countries in three trim levels: Elite, Executive, and the range-topping Executive Luxury. Depending on the variant, other key features include a leather steering wheel with two-way adjustment, USB ports, 12V power outlets, and a high-quality eight-speaker sound system. An electronic parking brake with auto-hold function, push-to-start ignition, keyless entry, cruise control, leather upholstery, Bluetooth connectivity, electric tailgate, and a 6-way power-adjustable driver’s seat are also available, among other convenient features. Surprisingly, the new D60 has a manual air conditioning system with rear air vents; even with the range-topping Executive Luxury trim level—surely one of the cons of the midsize SUV, especially when compared to its rivals! In terms of practicality, the new D60 has a spacious enough interior to carry up to seven passengers on board. There are three seating layouts available: 5-seat (2+3), 6-seat (2+2+2), and 7-seat layout (2+3+2). In other words, aside from the traditional 5-seat and 7-seat layouts, the midsize SUV also has a 2+2+2 seating configuration, satisfying diversified driving demands and bringing a deluxe experience to everyone on board. Regarding cargo volume, the all-new D60 has 170 liters in the 7-seat configuration and 900 liters in the 5-seat layout. On the safety front, the new D60 has a wide range of driving assistance features such as an anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brake assist (EBA), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), electronic stability program (ESP), hill assist system (HAS), rearview camera, front and rear parking sensors, ISOFIX child seat anchors, a tirepressure monitoring system, and blind-spot assist, along with front and side airbags. QCOTY 2021

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At the heart of the Maxus D60 lies a turbocharged four-cylinder, 1.5-liter engine that delivers 169 hp and 250 Nm of torque.

ENGINE At the heart of the Maxus D60 lies a turbocharged four-cylinder, 1.5-liter engine that delivers 169 hp and 250 Nm of torque. The four-cylinder mill comes with a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox, sending power to the front wheels. Overall, it is a good engine, but its figures are not eye watering—the Geely Azkarra’s mild-hybrid powertrain delivers a total output of 190 hp and 300 Nm of torque! In terms of the suspension, the new D6 rides on a McPherson-strut front suspension and a multi-link rear setup. This layout is directly adjusted by the British MIRA—a world-class chassis adjustment expert, meaning that the emphasis is on comfort and precision rather than sheer performance. This one-piece chassis does a good job of soaking up the bumps and potholes! Turning to the cabin noise levels, they are fairly good at speeds of up to 100 km/h, but wind and road noise can intrude a bit at higher speeds!

VERDICT The all-new Maxus D60 is undoubtedly a comfortable, uniquelooking crossover and is quite a bargain for a seven-seater. Thanks to its luxurious interior, high-quality materials, multiple seating layouts, and high-tech safety features, the new D60 is a solid midsize SUV that will offer you a great drive to suit your everyday needs.

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WINNER 2021

BEST LUXURY SEDAN

MERCEDES-BENZ S-CLASS

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nveiled almost seven decades ago, the MercedesBenz S-Class is undoubtedly one of the most luxurious and successful full-size sedans on Earth. Its name has always been synonymous with luxury, comfort, and safety—an epitome of the perfect, high-end car and a pioneer of automotive engineering!

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Debuted in late 2020, the current seventh-generation S-Class features a more modern styling inspired by existing models, a brand-new interior boasting more high-tech features than its predecessor, and, above all, a choice of two powerful sixcylinder engines, making the flagship sedan worth a spot on our 2021 Qatar Car of the Year (QCOTY) list.

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One of the key exterior features of the W223-generation S-Class is the revamped front grille with a much thinner chrome frame, giving the full-size sedan a more aggressive look.

Style-wise, the design of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is not a radical departure from the outgoing W222-generation model, as the new flagship sedan retains many of the design cues of its predecessor and shares many design features with the German brand’s recent offerings. However, one of the key exterior features of the W223generation S-Class is the revamped front grille with a much thinner chrome frame, giving the full-size sedan a more aggressive look. Other notable exterior features include the thinner and longer LED headlights, the new pop-out door handles, the fat and horizontal taillights, the integrated rear spoiler, and the rectangular exhaust pipes. Slotting above other sedan models in Mercedes’ line-up, the new S-Class is 5289 mm long, 2109 mm wide, and 1503 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 3216 mm, meaning that the newcomer is marginally bigger than the outgoing model.

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Clients can select one of three seating configurations at the back: a static bench, a Comfort layout with two single seats, or an Executive layout. INTERIOR Penned from a clean sheet, the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class’s interior looks entirely different. To start off, the dashboard is now clean, and there is no trace of the four AC vents on the center stack, nor the round vents at the corners. Instead, four rectangular vents are installed atop the dashboard and vertical outlets at the corners. Turning to the MBUX infotainment system, Mercedes offered its flagship sedan a new generation of its MBUX system—short for Mercedes-Benz User Experience. The center display is now an almost square 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen unit. There is also a freestanding, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster—as an optional extra it can be fitted with two integrated cameras that track the eye position and adjust the image to the way you move in your seat! As you can imagine, the cabin is completed to a high specification. Highlights include an advanced ambient lighting system, highly adjustable front seats to support movement in all directions (with massage functions included), an optional Burmester 4D sound system with 30 speakers and 1750 watts, twin 11.6-inch rear entertainment screens, and the MBUX rear tablet, to name but a few. Clients can select one of three seating configurations at the back: a static bench, a Comfort layout with two single seats, or an Executive layout that adds electrically adjustable single outer seats with a 19- to 43.5-degree reclining seat on the front passenger side. On the technology front, the new four-door sedan comes with a wide range of driving assistance features as standard, such as the Active steering Assist, Traffic Sign Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Lane Changing Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist with exit warning function, Active Parking Assist, and Active Brake Assist system that can automatically slow the car to avoid collisions with other vehicles, bicycles, or pedestrians, among other safety features.

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Under the hood, the new MercedesBenz S-Class sports a pair of 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engines.

ENGINE Under the hood, the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class sports a pair of 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engines. The S450’s unit delivers 367 hp and 500 Nm of torque. The S450 can go from zero to 100 km/h in an estimated 5.1 seconds, before hitting a limited top speed of 250km/h. If performance is your main concern, you can opt for the S500’s six-cylinder banger with an electric motor. This mill is rated at 435 hp and 520 Nm of torque. The zero to 100 km/h sprint takes 4.9 seconds with this unit, before reaching a limited top speed of 250km/h. The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class now comes with the fully active E-Active Body Control suspension and the Airmatic air suspension as standard, not to mention the rear-axle steering for improved handling on narrow city streets.

VERDICT The new seventh-generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class comes armed with fresh styling, a brand-new interior, best-in-class technology, and updated engines with mild hybrid technology, placing it at the top of its segment and leaving the competition in the dust!

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WINNER 2021

BEST COMPACT SEDAN

MG GT

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G Motor, the formerly British carmaker that is now Chinese owned, recently decided to add a new sports sedan to its range of cars and SUVs, the all-new MG GT. Billed as a “rebellious sports sedan,” the newcomer debuted in China in late 2020, but under the second-generation MG 5 moniker. However, in the Middle East, the Chinese brand chose to refer to its new sedan by the GT title—a name that goes back to 2014 with a compact sedan built for the Chinese market in mind!

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Putting the name aside for a moment, the 2022 MG GT is a dynamic, muscular fastback sports sedan that blends thrilling performance with luxurious comfort and cutting-edge technologies, to offer its potential Middle Eastern customers the best value for money, thus earning a spot on our 2021 Qatar Car of the Year (QCOTY) list.

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The 2022 MG GT is a dynamic, muscular fastback sports sedan that blends thrilling performance with luxurious comfort and cuttingedge technologies.

Clearly inspired by the classic, two-seater MGB sports car, the all-new GT adopts the Chinese brand’s third-generation design language, meaning the exterior lines reflect a sportier, more aggressive look. The new sports sedan sets itself apart from other MG sedan models with the black “Digital Flaming Grille” that has flamelike slats, outlining the sporty character of the 2022 GT and setting a new benchmark for its segment. Other key exterior highlights include the sporty LED headlights, a front bumper with large air intakes, a sloping roofline, 17-inch alloy wheels, an upturned ducktail at the end, and large exhaust pipes, to name but a few. Dimensionally speaking, the new sports sedan is 4675 mm long, 1842 mm wide, and 1480 mm tall, with a 2680 mm long wheelbase.

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The sports sedan is equipped with hi-tech gadgets, such as a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a large 10.1-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system. INTERIOR Inside, the 2022 MG GT features all-around trim materials, including two-tone leather seats with 3D patterns and red stitching, 3D diamond-designed console panel, and a flat-bottom leather steering wheel with paddle shifters. The sports sedan is also equipped with hi-tech gadgets, such as a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a large 10.1-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system, compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Other key interior features include a 6-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, keyless entry, push-button start, automatic air conditioning with a rear AC vent, electronic sunroof, a USB port, and cruise control, among other features. The seats are certainly very comfortable as they provide an ample amount of legroom and headroom, even in the back seats. The car can accommodate up to four adults, while there is room for a fifth passenger, only if the rear armrest is folded up. Open up the boot, and you will find 401 liters of cargo space, which can be increased with the 60/40 split-folding rear seats down. On the safety front, the all-new MG GT has a wide range of driving assistance features such as an anti-lock braking system (ABS), an electronic stability program (ESP), a 360-degree parking camera system, a rear parking sensor, a blind spot monitoring system (BSM), a lane departure warning system (LDW), a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), a front collision warning system (FCW), and an electronic parking brake with auto-hold function.

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The new GT gains a turbocharged fourcylinder, 1.5-liter engine that delivers 173 hp and 250 Nm of torque.

ENGINE Under the fresh sheet metal, the new GT gains a turbocharged fourcylinder, 1.5-liter engine that delivers 173 hp and 250 Nm of torque. The turbocharged mill comes with a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox, sending power to the front wheels. Speaking of performance, the 1.5-liter engine has a nice growl, allowing the 1,318 kg sedan to accelerate from zero to100 km/h in 8.5 seconds, before hitting a top speed of 215 km/h. In terms of the suspension, the GT rides on a MacPherson-strut front suspension and a H-type rear torsion beam setup. This layout leans toward comfort rather than sheer performance.

VERDICT The 2022 MG GT is a modern sports sedan suited to everyday use. It features a best-in-class ergonomic design, a luxurious, yet sporty interior with good-quality materials, cutting-edge technologies, hitech safety features, and a powerful 1.5L turbo engine. All these virtues make the newcomer a serious rival in a crowded segment.

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WINNER 2021

BEST COMPACT CROSSOVER

MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE CROSS

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nveiled at Mitsubishi crossover remember 1989 and 2011?

the 2017 Geneva Motor Show, the Eclipse Cross is a modern compact bearing the Eclipse name—do you the Eclipse coupe produced between

Unlike the original Eclipse, the Eclipse Cross looked more advanced than anything else Mitsubishi was offering back in 2017, slotting between the ASX and Outlander in the brand’s SUV range.

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In late 2020, the Japanese carmaker gave its sporty SUV coupe a mild facelift to produce the 2021 model, with a series of notable changes inside and out, making it a serious contender against the European, Japanese, and Korean models such as the Peugeot 3008, SEAT Ateca, Nissan Qashqai, and Kia Sportage—thus earning a place on our 2021 Qatar Car of the Year (QCOTY) list!

exterior The 2021 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross retains the overall sleek shape of the pre-facelift model, albeit adopting some new design elements here and there. To start off, the Japanese brand has adopted the latest version of its “Dynamic Shield” design language on the new sleek crossover, along with a new front bumper and a revamped headlight layout.

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The 2021 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross retains the overall sleek shape of the prefacelift model, albeit adopting some new design elements here and there.

The refreshed rear hatch, the three-dimensional taillights, and the new hexagon layout of the rear tailgate, complete the modern and edgy style of the new Eclipse Cross, so the compact crossover ends up feeling both sporty and aggressive. Dimensionally speaking, the facelifted Eclipse Cross is 4545 mm long, 1805 mm wide, and 1685 mm tall, with a 2670 mm long wheelbase.

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Surprisingly enough, Mitsubishi has managed to replace cheap materials with more premiumlooking and soft surfaces.

INTERIOR Notable changes occur in the new Eclipse Cross’s cabin, drivers will find a new 8-inch smartphone-link infotainment system that is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto—its display has been moved closer to the driver, and Mitsubishi has removed the touchpad controller in the center console, as the new screen is now touch-sensitive. Surprisingly enough, Mitsubishi has managed to replace cheap materials with more premium-looking and soft surfaces. The seats are wrapped in premium fabric or leather, depending on the trim level. Other key interior highlights include a leather-wrapped three-spoke steering wheel, a pair of USB ports, heated front and rear seats, Bluetooth connectivity, automatic air conditioning, and Mitsubishi Power Sound System (MPSS), to name but a few. In terms of practicality, the facelifted Eclipse Cross offers seating for up to five passengers, with ample headroom and legroom in both rows. Better yet, the new compact crossover offers 640 liters of cargo space behind the rear seats—enough to load up to four 9-inch golf bags. On the safety front, the updated Eclipse Cross offers a wide range of driving assistance features, such as a forward collision mitigation system (FCM), blind-spot warning (BSW), lane-departure warning (LDW), rear cross-traffic alert (RCTA), and a multi around monitor (MAM), among other safety features.

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This powerful 1.5-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine won’t be setting any roads on fire, but it is decent enough for an entry-level crossover.

ENGINE The 2021 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is still offered with a powerful 1.5-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 148 hp and 250 Nm of torque. Mated to a CVT transmission that sends power to the front wheels, the four-pot unit performs everyday duties quite well. There is a Sport mode that offers a sportier driving experience. This powertrain won’t be setting any roads on fire, but it is decent enough for an entry-level crossover. Speaking of handling, the steering is gentle and clearly tuned for comfort, thus doing a decent job while driving over broken pavement and railroad crossings—ironing out all the road imperfections with ease.

VERDICT The facelifted Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is really an excellent compact crossover that offers enough to pique buyer’s interest, thanks to its modern good looks, above-average cargo room, a long list of standard features, and hi-tech driver assistance systems, making it a game-changing crossover in this crowded segment.

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WINNER 2021

BEST 7-SEATER SUV

MITSUBISHI XPANDER

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nveiled in 2017, the Mitsubishi Xpander was the Japanese brand’s entry into the compact MPV segment. Produced in Indonesia, the seven-seater MPV has proved to be a hit, with total sales of 372,000 units in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Latin America, South Asia, Africa, and the Middle East regions—between 2017 and 2021.

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The 2021 Mitsubishi Xpander is known for its versatility and bold design, complemented by a roomy, yet luxurious interior, cutting-edge technologies, and a wide range of safety features and driving assistance systems. The Japanese MPV is definitely worth a spot on our 2021 Qatar Car of the Year (QCOTY) list for all these virtues and more.

exterior Style-wise, the compact MPV is unmistakably a Mitsubishi, thanks to the front-end design that is influenced by the Montero Sport. At the front, there is a bold adaptation of Mitsubishi’s “Dynamic Shield” family face, giving the Xpander a more aggressive and sharper look.

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The 2021 Xpander is unmistakably a Mitsubishi, thanks to the frontend design that is influenced by the Montero Sport.

Closer inspection reveals a handful of styling highlights, including the chrome upper grille, a dual-headlight setup with swept back daytime running lights, 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, L-shaped LED taillights, a sporty roof spoiler, and rugged SUV-inspired cladding. Dimensionally speaking, the all-new Xpander is 4475 mm long, 1750 mm wide, and 1730 mm tall, with a 2775 mm long wheelbase. The ground clearance is 205 mm—excellent for this compact MPV segment.

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Aside from the fact that the Xpander’s interior is the roomiest in its class, there is also plenty of storage spaces for drinks, muddy boots, snacks, and even smartphones. INTERIOR Inside, the 2021 Mitsubishi Xpander features a modern, yet simple dashboard with a large seven-inch infotainment touch display installed high at the center. Elsewhere, the small MPV’s interior brings soft materials unique to the segment, and customers can choose between a premiumlooking beige or a stylish black interior. Other key interior highlights include a leather-wrapped three-spoke steering wheel, automatic air conditioning with four rear roof vents, pushbutton start, high-quality fabric upholstery on the seats, three V12 power outlets, rearview camera, cruise control, and keyless entry, to name but a few. In terms of practicality, the new Xpander offers seating for up to seven passengers. Although the third-row seats are primarily designed for children, they are suitable for adults on shorter journeys. Aside from the fact that the Xpander’s interior is the roomiest in its class, there is also plenty of storage spaces for drinks, muddy boots, snacks, and even smartphones—keeping all your storage needs in mind. On the safety front, the 2021 Xpander offers a wide range of driving assistance systems and safety features, such as an anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), Active Stability Control (ASC), hill start assist (HSA), and Emergency Stop Signal system (ESS), along with dual front airbags and a Reinforced Impact Safety Revolution (RISE) body—the latter absorbs energy and maintains high-cabin integrity in the event of a collision. QCOTY 2021

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Under the hood, there is a naturally aspirated, four-cylinder 1.5-liter MIVEC engine, pushing out 105 hp and 141 Nm of torque.

ENGINE Under the hood, there is a naturally aspirated, four-cylinder 1.5-liter MIVEC engine, pushing out 105 hp and 141 Nm of torque. The figures are not particularly impressive, so you will definitely feel let down if you are expecting high-level performance. Paired to a four-speed automatic transmission sending power to the front wheels, the four-cylinder mill consumes much less fuel than the competition! For the suspension, the compact MPV gets MacPherson struts at the front, and a rear torsion beam setup, meaning the riding comfort is impressive, especially for everyday driving.

VERDICT With a modern, bold look, a monocoque construction, a spacious interior that is the roomiest in its class, a long list of standard equipment, and a plethora of hi-tech safety features, the 2021 Mitsubishi Xpander is arguably the best in the game. Its notably bigger size (compared to the competition) and unrivaled levels of smoothness and refinement compensate for the small engine’s limited capabilities.

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WINNER 2021

BEST OFF-ROAD SUV

NISSAN PATROL

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issan Patrol has been on the global market for 70 years, primarily since the original model—based on the Willys Jeep—was unveiled in 1951. To celebrate its 70th anniversary, Nissan’s flagship SUV has received another well-deserved facelift for the model year 2022. The most popular full-size SUV in the Middle East now features a refreshed styling with some aggressive and sportier accents here and there, while the interior has been slightly upgraded

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too. The body-on-frame SUV still comes with two engine options: the standard 4.0-liter V6 engine delivering 275 hp, and the more powerful 5.6-liter V8 engine pushing out 400 hp. For all these virtues, the “hero of all terrain” is definitely worth a spot on our 2021 Qatar Car of the Year (QCOTY) list.

exterior The 2022 Nissan Patrol has set itself apart from the predecessor with its new chrome V-motion grille, larger air intakes in the front bumper, a deeper apron, and the new 20-inch machine-cut alloy wheels to complete the exterior design.

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The most popular full-size SUV in the Middle East now features a refreshed styling with some aggressive and sportier accents here and there.

There are also C-shaped Rhombus LED headlights, boomerang-shaped LED taillights integrated into a large chrome nameplate, and a rear bumper with aerodynamic corners inspired by the high-performance NISMO variant. All these updates aim at giving the body-on-frame behemoth a more modern, aggressive, and premium look. The updated Nissan Patrol still has an overall length of 5165 mm and measures 1995 mm and 1940 mm in width and height, respectively. It also has a generous wheelbase of 3075 mm.

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Steeping inside the full-size SUV’s cabin, the drivers will find a new burgundy-colored quilted leather upholstery and a redesigned center console. INTERIOR Steeping inside the full-size SUV’s cabin, the drivers will find a new burgundy-colored quilted leather upholstery and a redesigned center console, joined by premium wood veneer and soft-padded touches. Adding also to the plushness of the cabin is the all-new, high-resolution 12.3-inch infotainment screen that is compatible with the new wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto systems. Nissan’s flagship SUV is also equipped with new bigger 10.1-inch rear dual entertainment screens with personal headphones, a 7-inch Driver Assist Display in the instrument cluster, a 13-speaker Bose premium audio system, tri-zone climate control, an upgraded navigation system with an enhanced voice recognition function, a wireless charger, and a built-in cooler box to create a truly first-class feel for every passenger. The seats of the facelifted Nissan Patrol are very comfortable, and there is plenty of space for seven adults in the SUV’s three rows. The 60/40-split bench seat in the third row can be folded down or raised up automatically. In terms of safety features, the Nissan Intelligent Mobility suite now comes as standard. These advanced driver-assistance systems include the Intelligent Emergency Braking with pedestrian detection (I-EB), Intelligent Forward Collision Warning (I-FCW), and Intelligent Lane Departure Warning (I-LDP). Intelligent Blind Spot Warning (I-BSW), Intelligent Cruise Control, Intelligent Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Control, and Intelligent Lane Intervention (I-LDP) are also available. QCOTY 2021

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The V8 Patrols come with Nissan’s Hydraulic Body Motion Control (HBMC) adaptive suspension system, aiming at improving handling and ride comfort on all roads.

ENGINE Under the hood, two engine options are still available for the 2022 Nissan Patrol. The base engine is 4.0-liter V6 engine, chugging out 275 hp and 394 Nm of torque. However, for those performanceseekers, there is a larger 5.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 400 hp and 560 Nm of torque. Both mills are mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the four wheels. The V8 Patrols come with Nissan’s Hydraulic Body Motion Control (HBMC) adaptive suspension system, aiming at improving handling and ride comfort on all roads. There is also an All-Mode 4×4 system that allows drivers to switch modes to handle both on- and off-road terrain.

VERDICT As a segment leader, the 2022 Nissan Patrol stands out with its fresh exterior design, restyled interior, higher level of luxury and comfort, clever off-road capability, and V6 or V8 powertrain options.

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RANGE ROVER SPORT

A GARAGE IS JUST A CAGE The most dynamic Range Rover Sport yet. A 5.0 litre V8 Supercharged Petrol engine with an output of 525PS delivers a startling performance. And the latest electronic air suspension brings sure-footedness to any surface. The unmistakable Range Rover elegance is ever-present, with a sense of modern luxury throughout. Book a test drive and set it free.

Alfardan Premier Motors Co. (L.L.C.) Burj Alfardan Showroom in Lusail City or Alfardan Plaza Showroom in Al Sadd St. Tel: +974 4447 7566 landrover-qatar.com