AHyundai has introduced a new base trim in the Lexus lineup – the iPrestige Executive. This new trim replaces the previous base Prestige trim. It is priced between ₹15.89 lakh and ₹17.77 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). Priced at ₹55,000 less than its equivalent variant, the new Prestige Executive comes with some features cut and some changes from the now-discontinued Prestige trim.
The Prestige Executive is available in 7-seat petrol-MT, 6- and 7-seat diesel-MT and 7-seat diesel-AT configurations. The previous base Prestige petrol variant was also available with an automatic gearbox and 6-seat configuration. A 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system has been a standard feature across the Alcazar lineup so far. But now, the new Alcazar Prestige Executive comes with a smaller 8.0-inch screen that is offered in the mid-configuration trims of the Hyundai Greta.
The smaller 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment lacks BlueLink connected car technology and the ability to receive over-the-air updates. The new Prestige Executive comes with a single mic instead of the dual mic setup that was standard on the Prestige trim. However, the smaller touchscreen infotainment retains wireless functionality and voice commands for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The smaller screen has knobs and buttons not previously available on a larger 10.25-inch screen.
The new Prestige Executive trim is elegant and comfortable as it retains LED headlamps, 17-inch alloy wheels, panoramic sunroof, cruise control, wireless charging, ambient lighting and many more features. Compared to trims with higher configuration levels, the waiting period to buy a Prestige Executive trim car is shorter.
There are no signs that the global problem of chip shortages will be relieved any time soon. Hence, the implication is that more and more automakers may adopt a similar approach in the future to reduce waiting times and drive car sales forward.