‘Fascination, perfection and responsibility’ – this is what apparently characterizes the next generation CL Class, as the German car maker delves well and truly into the realm of efficiency. With the all new range of CL-Class vehicles being prepped for launch, the cars have not only gone under the knife, but have also been showered with trailblazing innovations in automotive technology.

With a combination of cutting-edge camera and radar-based assistance systems, including the innovation of the Active Lane Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist systems, the CL Class will now become a ‘thinking’ partner to the driver. Plus, the modified Active Body Control (ABC), with a crosswind stabilization system, and the Direct-Steer system, will also contribute to enhancing safety.

Under the bonnet of the CL 500 Blue Efficiency and CL 500 4Matic Blue Efficiency is a new V8 bi-turbo engine. With 4,663cc displacement, the engine is capable of producing 435bhp, which is 12% more powerful than its predecessor. The torque has also been increased by 32% to 700Nm, while combined consumption has dropped by 23% to 9.5 litres per 100 kilometres. The engine also emits just 224 grams of CO2 per kilometre. The top of the line model – the CL 600 – will retain its 5.5 litre, 12 cylinder bi-turbo engine, which produces 517bhp and develops a torque figure of 830Nm, which enables it to reach 100km/h in just 4.6 seconds.

The CL will also feature a sleeker design. The lights will, of course, have LED strips for daytime running, and the headlamps will offer Mercedes’ Intelligent Light System and Adaptive High-beam Assist.

However, the new CL may not be available in India for some time. But we will get something better – the all-new SLS AMG, which was launched in New Delhi last month. The SLS is an exclusive piece of Mercedes art, which also happens to have phenomenal driving dynamics. Thanks to the modified AMG 6.3 litre V8 front mid-engine, and the AMG DCT 7-speed sports transmission, the AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, and the light yet rigid aluminium space-frame, the car develops 570bhp with a torque of 650Nm, and can reach 100km/h in just 3.8 seconds. All you need is a spare 2.5 crores.

Toyota finally launched a diesel variant of the Corolla Altis last month. The new variant is available with a newly developed 1.4 litre, in-line 4-cylinder, D-4D common rail diesel engine, which generates 87bhp, and peak torque of 205Nm. The engine is complemented by a 6-speed manual transmission, and boasts a claimed fuel economy figure of 21 km/l – of course, under ideal conditions.

The diesel Corolla also gets a sporty mesh grille, and better aerodynamic characteristics. The car will be available in seven colors, and will also be available in three different variants. Prices range from 10.9 lakhs to Rs. 13.7 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi).

The face-lifted Honda Accord will be launched in the near future, and the new version will receive updates to the tune of enhanced exterior and interior styling. Moreover, the two engines on offer – an in-line 4-cylinder and a V6 – will provide improved fuel economy.

Building on the sedans character, its stance will be made more muscular by a bolder front grille design, new front bumper, enhanced tail-lamp cluster, and a new wheel design for the V6 model. Interior updates on all models include a better instrument panel design, and more refined accent points throughout the interior.

After successfully launching Himalayan Harley-Davidson in Chandigarh, and Banjara Harley-Davidson in Hyderabad, Capital Harley-Davidson was inaugurated in New Delhi on July 14th. Managing Director of Capital Harley-Davidson, Atul Aggarwal, speaking on the occasion said, “This launch marks an important milestone for us, as we introduce the city to the pure Harley-Davidson culture, and commence delivery to our first customers.”

MD Harley-Davidson India, Anoop Prakash, was also present on the occasion, along with his entire team, as well as a few bike owners and enthusiasts. Harley-Davidson India commenced operations in August 2009, and is offering 12 models from their 2010 line-up. Capital Harley will offer all 12 models, in addition to authentic Harley riding gear, apparel and merchandise. The dealership will also allow for its customers to choose from a wide range of parts and accessories to customize their bikes. Each dealership will also have a service and repair outlet for all Harley owners.

And while MD Anoop Prakash failed to mention how many bikes had been booked so far, he did succumb to pressure and stated that Harley-Davidson India had a sales target of 300 units for this year. With prices of the bikes starting at 7 lakhs, and topping out at an astronomical 35 lakhs, Harley-Davidson India will need to offer competitive financing options to prospective customers in order to achieve their goal.

To capitalize on the initial success of the Polo, Volkswagen recently showcased its soon-to-launched Honda City-rivaling sedan – the Vento. On examining the car at its unveil, the Vento certainly comes across as another extremely well put together product from Volkswagen. The interior trim appeared to be even better finished than in the Polo hatchback.

The Vento will come with a choice of two engines. There’ll be a 1.6-litre petrol engine with an output of 103.5bhp at 5250rpm, and a torque of 153Nm at 3800rpm. The diesel variant is also equipped with a 1.6-litre engine with an identical output of 103.5bhp at 4400rpm, but an increased torque figure of 250Nm at 1500-2500rpm.

And now, for the most crucial aspect of them all, the price – well, Volkswagen is tight-lipped about it for the moment, and will only reveal the price when the Vento’s officially launched in the last quarter of this year. However, it’s estimated to be in the 7 to 9 lakh bracket to directly take on the Honda City and the Maruti Suzuki SX-4.