Autocar India. Review on Autocar India

Autocar India is an automobile magazine which aims to inform the enthusiatic motorist and new car buyers about all the cars available in the market. It is a sister publication of Autocar UK and is published in India by the Times Of India Group. It was launched in September, 1998. Now, it is the first and perhaps only name taken by motorists when asked about car mags.

Besides carrying reviews of the latest car launch, this magazine also scoops exclusive 'first impressions' of cars that are on the threshhold of being launched in India. It also covers popular motor sports like Formula 1, World rally Championship and the recently launched A1 Grand Prix. The coverage of motor sports is simply outstanding, especially the F1 coverage. It makes you feel that you are a part of the high on glamour world of motor sport.

There is also a column called Petrosexuals where celebrities are asked questins like: ''what is the fastest you have driven?'' and ''which car are you driving now?'' Another regular feature is the Me & my car where celebrities discuss their fondness and obsession with cars.

The New Buyers Guide is brilliant: It informs the reader of the advantages and disadvantages of every car on sale in India, right from the diminutive Maruti 800 to the huge Bentley Continental GT. Neatly laid out, it helps a car buyer immensely while making a decision.

Note: For subscription details and contests, visit https://autocarindia.com. The website is also great, but offers no real insight into the features of cars.

All in all, this should be called ''The Bible of Indian Motoring Journalism.'' The only drawback is the high cover price, Rs 60. This in an era where Auto India is selling for Rs25. But needless to say, this magazine is worth the extra money.