The good batch: Cars to lookout for in 2020

With the Covid-19 outbreak, the entire world was at a standstill when lockdown was imposed in many countries in different parts of the world. Like any other business, the automotive industry too braced for a huge impact. Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, the time span from April to July usually packs with a series of launch events featuring the latest models of vehicles manufactured by diverse brands in normal time.

This year, as we stepped into the new normal, many dealerships had to push back launches, however, a few managed to introduce new models in the market. Keeping that in mind, The Business Standard has come up with a list of three vehicles that made its way onto the streets, amid the global downturn.

Without further ado, let us dive into some of the features of these latest additions.

SsangYong Rexton

Last week, on September 25, Millennium SsangYong Motors Ltd launched the fourth-gen SUV – Rexton 2020. This SUV is powered by a 2,000cc turbo gasoline engine that can deliver a maximum power of 225ps at 5,500RPM and torque of 350Nm at 1,500-4,500RPM.

It comes with a four-wheel drivetrain that supports rear-drive mode under regular driving conditions for riding comfort and efficient fuel consumption as well as a 4WD high/low mode for particular road surface conditions- as the driver may feel is required to improve the driving force.

A combination of a front double wishbone and a rear multi-link independent suspension ensures a high level of driving stability and riding feel.

Rexton 2020 sits on a quad frame that has been built using advanced high strength steel which further strengthens the SUV's body and reduces its overall weight as well. On the front, the LED headlights merge with the grille which gives the SUV a dynamic look.

The interior of this SUV is spacious enough for a group of 7 to head out on a day trip. The Rexton 2020 is packed with features and functions that can give you the ultimate luxurious ride experience you would expect from such a four-wheeler.

BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé

The first-ever 2 Series Gran Coupé was introduced in Bangladesh by German car manufacturer - BMW in August this year. With its launch, BMW set a completely new standard in terms of class, looks, and agility.

The BMW 218i Gran Coupé comes with a 1.5-liter BMW twin-power turbo three-cylinder gasoline engine paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch Steptronic automatic transmission. It can deliver a maximum power of 140HP and 220 Nm of torque.

Like its four-door coupé siblings from the BMW 6 Series, BMW 4 Series and, BMW 8 Series ranges, the 2 Series Gran Coupé depicts BMW's focus on its design - bold, sporty, and rich trim, frameless side doors, and an ostentatious appearance.

The new Gran Coupé model also carries exclusive details such as contoured kidney grille bars with a striking indentation, a mesh grille, and the all-new design of the rear lights, which extend well into the centre of the rear end. On the front, its slightly angled headlights feature full-LED standard technology with the option of an adaptive variant.

All in all, the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé is the ultimate luxury sedan you could ask for.

Ford Ranger Raptor 2020

The Ranger Raptor 2020 - Ford's latest powerhouse might just be the perfect toy for your next off-road trip.

This beast is powered by Ford's latest high-tech 2.0L Bi-Turbo four-cylinder diesel engine. Its 1996cc along with the twin-turbocharged technology can deliver a maximum power of 157kW and torque of 500Nm.

It is tamed by its 10-speed automatic transmission which suits all types of shifting. However, compared to the six-speed Tiptronic-style transmission that came with the earlier models, it might be less fun to play with. But the rocker switch mounted beside the gear lever allows the driver to easily lockout between gears - from 7th gear to 3rd – swiftly.

Its six pre-set driving modes – Baja, sport, weather, mud/sand, rock crawl, and normal – can ensure that the truck goes through any type of road without putting any stop to your trip. The driving modes' precision is backed by the 33-inch BFGoodrich tyres which are suitable for all terrains.

 So, if you are planning your next trip to the hill tracts of Chittagong once the Covid-19 pandemic eases down, you can rely on this variant's precise terrain managemen