Also Read: Jeep's Upcoming SUV For India To Use Platform From Tata Motors

The Anniversary Edition gets a handful of cosmetic tweaks to set it apart from the standard Meridian. Exterior highlights include 85th Anniversary decals on the front doors, tailgate, and wheel centre caps, along with sporting Gloss Black 18-inch alloy wheels. Buyers can choose from White, Metallic Green, Red, Grigio Magnesio and Black paint finishes.

The cabin features an all-black theme with Mayan Gold trim across the dashboard and contrast detailing, along with ambient lighting. Jeep is also offering optional 85th Anniversary AXS packages, which add accessories such as carpet floor mats, an anniversary decal kit, an upgraded ambient lighting package and panoramic sunroof illumination.

Also Read: Jeep Wrangler Willys 41 Special Edition Reintroduced: Priced At Rs 70.31 Lakh

The 85th Anniversary Edition also marks the introduction of CARA AI on the Meridian. Stellantis' voice assistant, which first debuted in India on the Citroen Basalt, supports voice commands in 52 languages, including several Indian languages. Using natural voice commands, occupants can access navigation, weather updates, music, phone calls, reminders and selected vehicle functions without interacting with the infotainment screen.

Mechanically, the Anniversary Edition remains unchanged. It continues with the 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine producing 168 bhp and 350 Nm, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. 

Also Read: River Indie Gen 3 Long Term Report: 1 Month, 400 km After

The Indie remains River's only product and has steadily expanded its presence since entering the market. The scooter received its latest update in October 2025 with the introduction of the Gen 3 version.

With the Gen 3 update, River introduced new tyres, a redesigned instrument display and improved smartphone connectivity. The update also added hill-hold assist, while River says the scooter's riding dynamics were fine-tuned based on customer feedback. Buyers can currently choose from five exterior colours, all featuring contrasting black accents.

One of the Indie's biggest talking points continues to be its practicality. It offers 43 litres of under-seat storage, complemented by a 12-litre glove box, making it one of the most spacious electric scooters on sale in India.

Powering the Indie is a 4 kWh battery pack paired with an electric motor producing 9 bhp. River claims an IDC-certified range of 163 km, while the scooter has a claimed top speed of 90 kmph. Using the 750W charger, the battery takes five hours to charge from 0 to 80 per cent, according to the company. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes at both ends with a combined braking system.

River entered the Indian electric scooter market with the Indie in February 2023, before commencing production from its 120,000 sq ft Hoskote facility later that year. The plant features automated vehicle and battery pack assembly lines and has a production capacity of around one lakh units annually. 

Priced at Rs 1.55 lakh (ex-showroom), the River Indie competes with the Bajaj Chetak, Ather Rizta, TVS iQube and other electric scooters in the segment. 

As expected, the CNG version is the most frugal in the lineup with a claimed 26.90 km/kg. Among the petrol models, the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine paired with the 6-speed manual posts the highest claimed efficiency of 21.09 kmpl in the LXi and VXi trims. The newly introduced 1.0-litre Boosterjet turbo-petrol returns up to 20.47 kmpl, with the higher ZXi and ZXi+ variants rated slightly lower at 19.96 kmpl.

Also Read: 2026 Maruti Brezza Facelift: Variants, Features, Engine Options Explained

The biggest update for the 2026 Brezza is the addition of the 1.0-litre Boosterjet turbo-petrol ePowertrain Variants Claimedngine borrowed from the Fronx. The three-cylinder unit develops 108.5 bhp and 170 Nm in the Brezza, and is paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox. This makes the Brezza the first Maruti Suzuki passenger vehicle to offer a six-speed manual transmission.

Also Read: 2026 Maruti Suzuki Brezza Facelift Launched; Price Starts At Rs 7.40 Lakh 

The 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine continues to produce 103 bhp and 139 Nm. Buyers can choose between a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic transmission. The factory-fitted CNG version develops 88 bhp and 121.5 Nm while retaining the 6-speed manual gearbox.

Honda ZR-V Hybrid: Exterior

The ZR-V is also the largest vehicle in Honda's current Indian lineup. It measures 4,657 mm long, 1,840 mm wide and 1,621 mm tall, while its wheelbase stands at 2,655 mm.

On the looks front, the ZR-V gets slim LED headlamps flanking a large gloss-black grille. The front bumper houses functional air vents, while the rear gets wraparound LED tail-lamps with U-shaped lighting signatures, a roof spoiler, rear wiper and dual exhaust outlets integrated into the bumper. The Indian-spec model rides on 18-inch alloy wheels.

Honda ZR-V Hybrid: Interior and features

Coming to the interior, it gets an all-black cabin, leather upholstery with contrast stitching, soft-touch materials and metallic trim inserts, while the floating centre console houses Honda's push-button gear selector.

The dashboard houses a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system alongside a 10-inch digital instrument cluster. Other highlights include dual-zone climate control, a 12-speaker Bose sound system, powered front seats with memory for the driver, wireless phone charging, front parking sensors and an Acoustic Vehicle Alert System (AVAS) for low-speed electric driving.

Safety equipment includes eight airbags, disc brakes on all four wheels and Honda's full ADAS suite, which packs adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, low-speed follow and a driver attention monitor.

Honda ZR-V Hybrid: Powertrain

The ZR-V is powered by Honda's 2.0-litre strong-hybrid e:HEV system, pairing a naturally aspirated petrol engine with an electric motor. Combined output is rated at 181 bhp and 315 Nm, allowing the SUV to accelerate from 0 to100 kmph in 7.9 seconds before reaching a claimed top speed of 173 kmph. A bigger talking point, however, is efficiency. Honda claims the ZR-V returns 22.80 kmpl.

Honda ZR-V Hybrid: Rivals

In the Indian market, the ZR-V sits in the premium SUV space, where it gets into the ring with the Skoda Kodiaq, Volkswagen Tayron and the Jeep Meridian. 

Also Read: 2026 Maruti Brezza Facelift Launches With Three Major Firsts

Here is a complete breakdown of what each variant has to offer along with its variant-wise prices, engine options, colours and features.

Maruti Suzuki Brezza LXi

Engine options:
 

• 1.0-litre Turbo petrol
• 1.5-litre Petrol-CNG

Transmission:

• 6-speed Manual only  

Exterior colours:

• Splendid Silver  
• Sizzling Red  
• Pearl Arctic White  
• Magma Grey  
   

Features:

• Halogen projector headlamps  
• LED rear combination lamps  
• Roof end spoiler  
• Painted front grille  
• Shark fin antenna  
• Aero vents  
• Wheel arch cladding  
• Side underbody cladding  
• Dual-tone side door cladding  
• Full wheel covers (1.5 Petrol & CNG)  
• Turbo exterior emblem (Turbo only)  
• Dual-tone interior theme  
• Black IP ornament  
• Flat-bottom steering wheel  
• Cabin lamp  
• Electrically adjustable ORVMs  
• Driver-side auto up/down power window  
• Rear AC vents  
• Keyless entry  
• Front and rear power windows  
• Tilt-adjustable steering column  
• Front accessory socket  
• Pollen cabin air filter  
• Turbo variants additionally get
• Height-adjustable driver seat  
• Adjustable rear seat headrests  
• Automatic climate control  
• Speedometer with tachometer  
• Gear shift indicator (MT)  
• Audible headlamp-on reminder  
• Low fuel warning light  
• Six airbags (Front, Side & Curtain)  
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP)  
• Hill Hold Assist  
• Front seat belt pre-tensioners and force limiters  
• Reverse parking sensors with infographic display  
• High-speed warning alert  
• Seat belt reminder for all occupants  
• Three-point ELR seat belts for all occupants  
• Anti-theft security system  
• Engine immobiliser  
• ISOFIX child seat restraint system  
• Manual day/night inside rear-view mirror  
• Door ajar warning lamp  
• Tyre repair kit with jack  
• Suzuki TECT body  
• Dual horn  
• Emergency Stop Signal  
• Central locking (5-door)  
• Turbo variants additionally get Rear defogger

Also Read: 2026 Maruti Suzuki Brezza Facelift Launched; Price Starts At Rs 7.40 Lakh

Maruti Suzuki Brezza VXi

Engine options:
 

• 1.0-litre Turbo petrol  
• 1.5-litre NA petrol  
• 1.5-litre Petrol-CNG 
   

Transmission options:
 

• 6-speed Manual (Turbo, NA and CNG)  
• 6-speed Automatic (1.5-litre Petrol only)  
   

Exterior colours:

• Splendid Silver  
• Sizzling Red  
• Pearl Arctic White  
• Magma Grey  
• Bluish Black (Turbo only)  
• Vivacious Orange  
• Lustrous Beige  
   

In addition to the features offered in the LXi, it gets:

• Painted 16-inch alloy wheels (Turbo and Petrol)  
• Full wheel covers retained on CNG variants  
• Fabric door armrests  
• Driver and co-driver seat back pockets  
• Electrically foldable ORVMs (Turbo only)  
• 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system  
• Arkamys sound system  
• Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay  
• Remote control app for infotainment  
• Steering-mounted audio and Bluetooth controls  
• Onboard Voice Assistant with "Hi Suzuki" and Barge-in feature  
• USB and Bluetooth connectivity  
• Four speakers  
• Reverse parking camera (Turbo only)

Also Read: 2026 Maruti Suzuki Brezza Bags 5 Stars In Bharat NCAP Crash Tests

Maruti Suzuki Brezza ZXi

Engine options:

• 1.0-litre Turbo petrol  
• 1.5-litre NA petrol  
• 1.5-litre Petrol-CNG  

Transmission: 
 

• 6-speed Manual (Turbo, NA and CNG)  
• 6-speed Automatic (1.5-litre Petrol only)  

Exterior colours:

• Pearl Arctic White with Bluish Black roof (Dual Tone)  
• Sizzling Red with Bluish Black roof (Dual Tone)  
• Lustrous Beige with Bluish Black roof (Dual Tone)  
• Splendid Silver  
• Pearl Arctic White  
• Magma Grey  
• Bluish Black  
• Vivacious Orange  
• Lustrous Beige

In addition to the features offered in the VXi, it gets:
 

• Dual LED projector headlamps with DRLs
• Roof rails  
• Smoke chrome front grille
• Dual-tone exterior paint option (selected colours)  
• Painted dual-tone side door cladding  
• Electric sunroof  
• PM2.5 cabin air filter  
• Mono-colour ambient lighting  
• Piano Black IP ornament  
• Co-driver pilot lamp  
• Chrome-plated inside door handles  
• Luggage lamp  
• Front footwell illumination  
• 60:40 split-folding rear seats  
• Overhead console with sunglass holder and map lamp  
• Engine push start/stop with Smart Key  
• Rear centre armrest with cup holder  
• Tilt and telescopic steering column  
• Infotainment & Connected Tech
• TFT colour Multi-Information Display (MID)

Turbo variants additionally get:

• Blind Spot Warning  
• Safe Exit Warning  
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert  
• Front parking sensors  
• Rear wiper and washer  
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (Highline)  
• Two tweeters  
   

Petrol and CNG variants additionally get:
 

• Reverse parking camera

Maruti Suzuki Brezza ZXi+

Engine options: 
 

• 1.0-litre Turbo petrol  
• 1.5-litre NA petrol  

Transmission options:

• 6-speed Manual (Turbo and NA) 
• 6-speed Automatic (1.5-litre Petrol)  

Exterior colours: 
 

• Pearl Arctic White with Bluish Black Roof (Dual Tone)  
• Sizzling Red with Bluish Black Roof (Dual Tone)  
• Lustrous Beige with Bluish Black Roof (Dual Tone)  
• Splendid Silver  
• Pearl Arctic White  
• Magma Grey  
• Bluish Black  
• Vivacious Orange  
• Lustrous Beige

In addition to the features offered in the ZXi, it gets:
 

• 16-inch machined alloy wheels  
• LED front fog lamps with extended lighting  
• 64-colour ambient lighting  
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel  
• Leatherette seat upholstery  
• Driver seat-back pocket  
• Front ventilated seats  
• Head-up display  
• Front centre armrest with sliding function and storage  
• Cooled glovebox  
• Wing-type adjustable rear centre headrest  
• Auto-folding ORVMs  
• PM2.5 cabin air filter with AQI display  
• Rear fast-charging USB Type-A and Type-C ports  
• 10.1-inch SmartPlay Pro+ touchscreen infotainment system  
• Arkamys Surround Sense premium sound system  
• Over-the-Air (OTA) updates  
• New-gen Suzuki Connect connected car tech
• App Store with OTT apps  
• Suzuki Navigation with traffic, speed and camera alerts  
• Internet connectivity  
• Smartphone internet tethering  
• Alexa Auto Voice AI  
• On-screen AC temperature display and controls  
• 360-degree HD camera  
• Auto-dimming inside rear-view mirror  
• Shoulder height-adjustable front seat belts  
• Cruise control (standard across ZXi+)  
• Connected car features via Suzuki Connect, including:  
• Emergency alerts  
• Breakdown notification  
• Stolen vehicle tracking  
• Tow-away alert  
• Geofence and Time Fence  
• Valet alert  
• Emergency calling (e-Call)  
• Trip summary and driving behaviour analysis  
• Vehicle location sharing  
• Send destination to vehicle  
• Overspeed, seat belt, AC idling, low fuel, low range and low tyre pressure alerts  
• Remote door lock/unlock  
• Remote hazard lamp control  
• Remote headlamp OFF  
• Remote AC ON/OFF and Schedule AC (6AT only)  
• Remote alarm  
• Immobiliser request  
• Vehicle health monitoring  
• Smartwatch connectivity  
• Alexa Skill connectivity

Also read: 2026 Maruti Brezza Facelift Launch LIVE Updates: Price, Specifications, Details, Images
 

In terms of cosmetics, the Brezza gets an updated fascia with a new front bumper and updated grille. Depending on the variant, the grille either features a painted finish, smoked chrome finish or gloss black with red accents.

Down the flanks, tweaks to the side cladding and new alloy wheel designs round out the changes. At the rear, the bumper gets small tweaks to the skid plate element.

Also read: 2026 Maruti Suzuki Brezza Bags 5 Stars In Bharat NCAP Crash Tests

Inside, the big changes come in the form of a new 10.1-inch touchscreen, revised trim finishers on the dashboard fascia and new air-con controls reminiscent of the Victoris. On the feature side, the Brezza facelift gets additional kit such as ventilated front seats, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert, front parking sensors and the aforementioned touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. As before, you still get features such as auto climate control, a HUD, wireless phone charger, auto LED headlamps, 360-degree cameras and more.

Moving to the powertrain, the big news is the addition of a turbo-petrol engine option and a new 6-speed manual gearbox. The turbo-petrol is the familiar Boosterjet unit, though it now makes 108.5 bhp and 170 Nm – more than the 99 bhp and 146 Nm in the Fronx. The 101 bhp 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol carries forward and now gets mild hybrid tech as standard except on the CNG variants. The turbo-petrol too features mild hybrid tech.

The 6-speed manual replaces the old 5-speed manual unit as the standard gearbox across the range, while you can still get a 6-speed torque converter unit, though only with the 1.5 petrol. In terms of fuel efficiency, the new car gets improvements over the outgoing model with the 1.5 petrol now returning up to 21.09 kmpl in manual and 20.17 kmpl in automatic guise. The CNG returns a claimed 26.90 km per kg while the turbo petrol is good for up to 20.47 kmpl.

The facelifted Brezza goes up against the Hyundai Venue, Mahindra XUV 3XO, Kia Sonet, Kia Syros and the Skoda Kylaq

Even before prices are announced, the new Brezza has earned a 5-star Bharat NCAP safety rating, scoring 30.41 out of 32 for adult occupant protection and 43 out of 49 for child occupant protection.

Also Read: Honda ADV 160 Unveiled in India Before Launch

Although the duo share the same platform, the two motorcycles have been developed with different purposes. Honda says the XR 300L is intended to strike a balance between commuting and trail rides, while the XR 300 Rally is designed for riders who spend more time touring.

Honda XR 300L

The XR 300L packs a 293.5 cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine with an oil cooler. Honda says the motorcycle has been developed to remain accessible to new off-road riders, with an emphasis on low weight and easy handling. It comes equipped with long-travel suspension, a Pro-Link rear monoshock, switchable dual-channel ABS and Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC).

Also Read: Honda Rebel 300 and Rebel 500 Unveiled; Both To Be Locally Manufactured

Honda XR 300 Rally

The XR 300 Rally takes the same mechanical package and adds equipment better suited to longer rides. Honda says the bike draws inspiration from its Dakar Rally machines, with rally-style bodywork offering better wind protection and touring comfort. It also gets Honda RoadSync smartphone connectivity feature.

Engine and hardware

The two motorcycles share the same 293.5 cc engine, although Honda has not revealed its output yet. Both bikes are equipped with front and rear disc brakes, switchable dual-channel ABS and long-travel suspension.

Also Read: Honda Unveils All-New CB500 In India; CB350 Range Gets New Colours For 2026

Launch timeline

Honda hasn't announced prices yet, but it has confirmed that the XR 300L and XR 300 Rally will go on sale in India before the end of FY2027. With these two motorcycles, the company is throwing its dice against models such as the Hero XPulse 210, KTM 390 Adventure, Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and Yezdi Adventure.

Design-wise, while the QC3 follows a similar ideology to the QC1, but it has couple of design elements that differentiate it from the QC1. The headlamp, alloy wheels, saddle tail section, have a different look that gives it a more premium appeal. In terms of features, the QC3 gets a TFT instrument cluster with Honda RoadSync connectivity, offering smartphone integration and turn-by-turn navigation.

Also Read: Honda Unveils All-New CB500 In India; CB350 Range Gets New Colours For 2026

The QC3 is equipped with a fixed 3 kWh battery pack that delivers a claimed IDC-certified range of 145 km, making it the highest-range electric scooter in Honda's India lineup. The company says the battery can be charged from 0 to 80 per cent in 2 hours and 40 minutes, while a full charge takes around 5 hours. Although, Honda is yet to reveal the QC3's motor output and performance figures.

Also Read: Honda ADV 160 Unveiled in India Before Launch

Once launched, the QC3 will join the existing QC1 and Activa-e models in Honda's EV portfolio. While the QC1 serves as the brand's entry-level electric scooter, the Activa-e features dual swappable battery packs. Honda has not yet announced the QC3's price or launch timeline but has communicated that it will be launched before FY2027.

Honda has styled the CB500 similar to the CB350 but gets subtle design changes to differentiate it like the larger fuel tank, ribbed seat, larger fenders, different tail section and a chunkier exhaust. In terms of features, the motorcycle is equipped with a semi-digital instrument console, slipper clutch, selectable torque control and RoadSync smartphone connectivity. It will be offered in three variants, including alloy-wheel and a cross-spoke wheel version, with the top-spec model receiving exclusive graphics.

Also Read: Honda Rebel 300 and Rebel 500 Unveiled; Both To Be Locally Manufactured

For cycle parts, the motorcycle is suspended by telescopic fork at the front and gas-charged twin shock absorbers at the rear. Braking is handed by disc brakes at both ends and assisted by dual-channel ABS. The motorcycle ride on 19-17 inch wheel setup. 

Although the CB500 borrows its classic styling cues from the CB350, it is built around an all-new platform. The motorcycle is powered by a 501cc, single-cylinder, air/oil-cooled engine that develops 28bhp and 43.3Nm of torque, making it Honda's largest air/oil-cooled single-cylinder motorcycle for the Indian market.

Also Read: Honda ADV 160 Unveiled in India Before Launch

Positioned above the CB350 family, the CB500 is expected to take on midsize retro motorcycles such as the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 and the BSA Gold Star 650. Local production is likely to play a key role in making the motorcycle competitively priced when it goes on sale.

Alongside the CB500, Honda has updated its CB350 lineup for 2026 with fresh colour schemes and revised graphics. The cosmetic update extends across the CB350, CB350RS and CB350C, giving the motorcycles a darker, more contemporary appearance while leaving the mechanical package unchanged.

The Rebel 300 stays true to its international design language with a low-slung, stripped-back bobber silhouette. Up front sits a circular LED headlamp housed in a black casing, while the sculpted fuel tank, blacked-out engine, chopped fenders and chunky tyres lend the motorcycle a muscular stance. The side profile is dominated by its low seat and minimalist tail section, giving the Rebel a clean, uncluttered appearance.

Also Read: Honda ADV 160 Unveiled in India Before Launch

Honda has also equipped the motorcycle with 16-inch black alloy wheels, a stubby upswept exhaust, wide handlebars and a low rider seat. The overall styling combines classic cruiser proportions with modern proportions, making the Rebel 300 stand out. Built around a tubular steel frame, it is suspended by 41 mm telescopic forks up front and twin rear shock absorbers. Braking duties are handled by a 296 mm front disc and a 240 mm rear disc, supported by dual-channel ABS as standard. It features a low 690 mm seat height, an 11.2-litre fuel tank and tips the scales at 191 kg kerb.

Powering the Honda Rebel 300 is a 286cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces 30 bhp and 27.4 Nm of peak torque. The motor is paired with a six-speed gearbox and benefits from Honda's assist-and-slipper clutch, offering a combination of smooth city performance and relaxed highway cruising. The motorcycle will be offered in two variants, standard and E-clutch. 

In terms of competition, the Honda Rebel 300 will compete against the likes of the Royal Enfield Meteor 350, Royal Enfield Classic 350, and the Jawa 42.

Additionally, Honda also showcased the locally manufactured version of the Rebel 500. Previously offered as a CBU model, it carried a premium price tag which deterred buyers from considering it. Like the Rebel 300, the 500 will also be offered in two variants, standard and E-clutch. While prices are yet to be announced, expect it to be considerably lesser with the locally manufacturing route. 

The ADV 160 stands apart from conventional scooters with its rugged adventure-inspired design. Up front, it features a sharp twin-LED headlamp setup housed within an angular front apron, complemented by a tall adjustable windscreen that offers improved wind protection during longer rides. The scooter also gets muscular bodywork, pronounced side fairings, integrated knuckle guards, a stepped single-piece seat, split grab rails and a neatly upswept tail section with LED tail lamps. The overall design draws inspiration from Honda's larger adventure motorcycles, giving the ADV 160 a distinctive maxi-scooter stance.

Underpinning the ADV 160 is a chassis suspended by telescopic forks at the front and twin rear shock absorbers. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes at both ends, with single-channel ABS offered as standard. The scooter rides on alloy wheels shod with wide tubeless tyres. Seat height is set at 780mm, while kerb weight is set at 134kg. Underseat storage is a generous 27 litres, making it practical enough for everyday commuting as well as weekend rides.

Honda has equipped the ADV 160 with a comprehensive list of modern features befitting its flagship status. It comes with full-LED lighting, a fully digital instrument console and a smart key system that enables keyless operation. The adjustable windscreen allows riders to tailor wind protection according to their preference, while a USB charging socket adds convenience for charging devices on the move.

Powering the ADV 160 is a 157cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that develops 16bhp and 14.9Nm of peak torque. The engine is paired with a CVT automatic transmission, promising smooth city performance while also offering enough power for highway cruising. Honda has also confirmed that the engine is E85-compliant, making it compatible with higher ethanol-blended fuels. 

2026 Maruti Brezza: Turbo-petrol finally makes its way

The headline change is the addition of Maruti's 1.0-litre Boosterjet turbo-petrol engine. Although the three-cylinder motor already does duties on the Fronx, this will be the first time for it in the Brezza. This engine churns out 108 bhp and 170 Nm.

2026 Maruti Brezza: First Maruti with a 6-speed manual

The 1.0 litre turbo petrol engine is paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox, a first for any Maruti Suzuki passenger vehicle. More importantly, it is also the first manual transmission to be designed and developed entirely in India by the carmaker. Until now, every manual Maruti passenger vehicle has made do with five gears. Interestingly, the Fronx, which uses the same 1.0-litre Boosterjet engine, continues with a 5-speed manual, making the Brezza the first model to receive the new transmission. 

2026 Maruti Brezza: First time with engine options

Engine options are another first for the nameplate. The original Brezza arrived with only the 1.3-litre diesel, before switching exclusively to the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol after Maruti exited the diesel passenger car market. The updated model changes that formula by offering two petrol engines, giving buyers the option of going with the 1.5-litre unit or moving to the new turbocharged motor.

2026 Maruti Brezza: Variants

As for the engine options split across the range, the 1.5-litre petrol with a 6-speed manual is available in LXi, VXi, ZXi and ZXi+ trims, while the 6-speed automatic is offered on the VXi, ZXi and ZXi+. The new 1.0-litre turbo-petrol, paired exclusively with the 6-speed manual, is also available in LXi, VXi, ZXi and ZXi+ grades.

2026 Maruti Brezza: Adult occupant protection

In the adult occupant protection test, the Brezza has managed to score 30.41/32 overall. Further breaking it down, it scored 14.41 out of 16 in the frontal offset deformable barrier test and the full 16 out of 16 in the side movable deformable barrier test. It also cleared the side pole impact test with an ‘OK’ verdict.

In the frontal crash test, protection for the driver's head, neck, pelvis and feet was rated good, while the chest and tibiae received an adequate rating. For the front passenger, Bharat NCAP rated protection as good for the head, neck, chest and pelvis, with adequate protection for tibiae. During the side impact assessments, protection for all critical body regions was rated good.

2026 Maruti Brezza: Child occupant protection

The Brezza secured 43 out of 49 points in the child occupant protection assessment, including a full 24 out of 24 in the dynamic crash test and 12 out of 12 for child restraint system (CRS) installation. It received 7 out of 13 in the vehicle assessment category.

The child occupant protection test was conducted using 18-month-old and 3-year-old dummies placed in rearward-facing child seats. In both the frontal and side impact tests, each dummy achieved the maximum possible scores of 8/8 and 4/4, respectively. 

2026 Maruti Brezza: Safety equipment

Maruti has also confirmed some of the saferty features on the 2026 Brezza. All variants will now come with six airbags as standard, while other features include electronic stability control (ESC) with hill hold assist, ABS with EBD, ISOFIX child seat mounts, rear parking sensors, a rear parking camera, TPMS, and a rear wiper and defogger as standard. Higher up the range, the SUV will also offer a 360-degree camera, front parking sensors, blind spot warning with lane change alert, rear cross-traffic alert, safe exit warning, and an emergency stop signal.

Kia Syros EV: Battery, Range & Performance

The new Kia Syros EV, with the Extended Range 51.4 kWh battery, can offer a maximum range of 526 km (ARAI) on a single charge. At the same time, the variants with the smaller 42 kWh battery come with a claimed ARAI range of 443 km on a single charge. The car will also support DC fast charging up to 100 kW, with a best-in-segment charge time of 10-80% in 39 minutes. 

Also Read: New Kia Syros EV Variants Explained

The Syros EV is built on the reinforced K1 platform, and it uses Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) batteries. Irrespective of the battery you choose, you will get a single-battery setup attached to the front axle, producing 169 bhp. 

Kia has also equipped the new electric SUV with Paddle Shifters for Regenerative Braking with Auto Mode and i-Pedal, Vehicle-to-Load (Internal), Virtual Engine Sound System (VESS), a Battery Heating System and Shift-by-Wire - Column-Type.

Kia Syros: Design & Styling 

Visually, the Kia Syros EV remains largely identical to the regular Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) version of the SUV. The front bumper is slightly different due to the addition of LED foglights, and you get the charging port above the left front wheel. However, apart from that, the rest of the exterior visually looks unchanged. 

You get Ice Cube MFR LED headlamps, Standard front LED Fog Lamps, Star Map LED daytime running lamps with integrated turn indicators along with Kia’s Signature Digital Tiger Face. At the rear, you get Star Map LED taillamps, first-in-segment Auto Streamline Door Handles and R17 - 43.66 cm (17-inch) Crystal Cut Dual-Tone Aero Alloy Wheels (with a 16-inch wheel option), further adding to Syros EV’s modern appearance. The rear comes with Star Map connected LED tail lamps, first-in-segment auto pop-out door handles, and 17-inch Crystal Cut Dual-Tone Aero Alloy Wheels.

The Syros EV comes in nine exterior colours — Glacier White Pearl, Frost Blue, Gravity Grey, Pewter Olive, Magma Red, Ivory Silver Matte, Ivory Silver Gloss, Aurora Black Pearl, and, exclusively for X-Line ER, Xclusive Matte Graphite and Aurora Black Pearl — and three interior themes: Cloud Blue & Grey, Onyx Black & Off-White, and the exclusive Onyx Black & Hunter Green.

Also Read: Kia Syros EV Unveiled: 169 BHP Motor, Up To 526 KM Range

Kia Syros: Interior & Cabin Features 

The cabin layout too is very similar to the standard Syros; however, here you get a different colour palette, and a few EV-specific changes. For instance, you get the same triple screen set-up with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch driver display and 5-inch climate control display. On the other hand, you get a new steering wheel taken from the new Seltos. 

You also get Kia Connect 2.0 with 95+ connected car features, Over-the-Air (OTA) software updates, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a Harman Kardon premium 8-speaker sound system. Kia also offers a wireless phone charger, front and rear ventilated seats, a powered driver seat and a panoramic sunroof. 

The new Syros EV will also come with a Smart Dashcam with dual camera, rear door sunshade curtains, multiple USB Type-C ports including a new 100W front USB-C charger, and a 16-litre frunk with cover. 

Kia Syros EV: Safety Features

The Syros EV’s standard list of features includes six airbags, ESC, Hill Start Assist, Brake Assist, TPMS, ISOFIX child seat mounts, Rear Occupant Alert and an electronic parking brake with Auto Hold.

Kia is also offering Level 2 ADAS with 16 autonomous functions with the Syros EV, which was removed from the regular version sometime back.  These features include – Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Lane Keeping Assist and Lane Following Assist. It also features a 360-degree camera, Blind View Monitor, Reverse Parking Collision Avoidance Assist and front, rear and side parking sensors.

Kia Syros EV: Battery-as-a-Service & Warranty

Customers can also choose to buy the Syros EV under the Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) programme. Here you have the option for flexible finance options structured as a dual-loan model with the chassis and battery financed separately. Price under the BaaS programme starts at Rs. 7.99 lakh along with a battery fee of Rs. 3.3 per kilometres 

Kia is also offering a 15-year, unlimited-kilometre high-voltage battery warranty for the first owner of the Syros EV. Along with that, you also get an introductory assured buyback programme that guarantees up to 80 per cent of the vehicle's value after three years. 

Buyers can opt for 3- or 4-year buyback plans with flexible annual mileage limits and choose to retain, return or replace the vehicle at the end of the term. The company has also introduced the My Convenience e-Plus package, which bundles maintenance, extended warranty and roadside assistance, and is offered in 4-year Premium and 5-year Luxury plans.

Also Read: New Mercedes-Benz GLB EV India Launch Confirmed

Mercedes-AMG E 53: Exterior

The E 53 retains the familiar silhouette of the standard E-Class but gets several AMG-specific styling elements to set it apart. Up front, there's the signature AMG grille flanked by a redesigned bumper with larger air intakes, while the front fenders are slightly wider than the regular sedan.

Around the back, the changes include a subtle boot-lid spoiler, a black rear diffuser and quad round exhaust tips. The sedan rides on 19-inch alloy wheels as standard, with 20-inch and 21-inch designs offered as optional upgrades.

Mercedes-AMG E 53: Interior and Features

Inside, the cabin follows the same layout as the standard E-Class but features a sportier treatment. It gets AMG sports seats with powered front seats, an AMG steering wheel, and grey open-pore ash wood trim.

Also Read: Mercedes-Benz India Posts Record H1 Sales Of 9,768 Units; Q2 Retail Reaches 4,637 Units

On the features front, it gets a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.4-inch central touchscreen, a Burmester sound system, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a wireless phone charger, panoramic sunroof, 64-colour ambient lighting, 360-degree cameras, multiple drive modes and a comprehensive suite of safety features. One can also opt for the MBUX Superscreen, which adds a dedicated display for the front passenger.

Mercedes-AMG E 53: Powertrain

Powering the E 53 is a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six petrol engine paired with an electric motor. Together, the system produces a peak 593 bhp and 750 Nm, while opting for the AMG Dynamic Plus Package temporarily raises peak output to 620 bhp. The engine is mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission. Mercedes claims a 0 to100 kmph time of 3.8 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 280 kmph.

The plug-in hybrid system draws energy from a 28.6 kWh battery pack mounted beneath the boot floor, offering a claimed electric-only range of over 100 km. Charging is managed by an 11 kW AC charger as standard, while an optional 60 kW DC fast charger can replenish the battery from 10 to 80 per cent in 20 minutes.

Also Read: 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Facelift Launched In India At Rs 2.20 Crore

Mercedes-AMG E 53: Chassis and dynamics

The E 53 comes standard with adaptive suspension with Comfort, Sport and Sport+ modes. Mercedes-AMG has also widened the front track by 11 mm, added extra chassis bracing at both axles and recalibrated the braking system to better integrate regenerative braking from the hybrid setup.

The performance sedan also gets rear-axle steering, allowing the rear wheels to turn by up to 2.5 degrees, aiding in agility at lower speeds and stability during high-speed driving. Braking duties are handled by four-piston fixed calipers at the front and single-piston floating calipers at the rear.

Mercedes-AMG E 53: Rivals

The Mercedes-AMG E 53 plug-in hybrid takes on other high-performance luxury sedans such as the BMW M5, which is priced at Rs 2.11 crore (ex-showroom).

Also Read: Honda ADV 160 Design Patented In India

At least 5-6 new products are expected to be showcased at the event, and once launched, all of these will be made in India. car&bike has learnt that the products will be across genres which will cover scooters, entry-level single-cylinder models, middleweight segment products and with different fuel types. This leads us to believe that Honda will not just showcase upcoming petrol-powered products but also showcase at least one electric two-wheeler which will be launched in India or showcase Honda's capability in the EV space. One or two flex-fuel models of Honda's bestselling two-wheelers are also expected. 

The usual expectations are the Honda ADV 160 and PCX 160 in the scooter segment, followed by the Honda Rebel 300 entry-level cruiser in the sub-350 cc space. HMSI has already filed a design patent for the ADV 160 which is one of the most highly anticipated products in India. The Honda CRF300L dual-sport motorcycle is also expected to be showcased at the event, along with middleweight models like the Honda CB500R and Honda CB500 Hornet.  Here's a look at some of the models that we expect Honda to showcase at the event on July 24, 2026.

Honda ADV 160

One of the most highly anticipated products will be the Honda ADV 160, a more rugged adv-styled maxi-scooter based on the Honda PCX 160. The ADV 160 features a tall windscreen, sharp and muscular bodywork, longer travel suspension, and semi-block pattern tyres on the 14-inch front and 13-inch wheel set-up. The ADV 160 is powered by a 157 cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine with an output of 16 bhp and 14.7 Nm. In terms of dimensions, the ADV 160 has a kerb weight of 133 kg, with a seat heigh of 780 mm and comes with single-channel ABS with a 240 mm front disc and a 130 mm rear drum set-up.

Also Read: Honda ADV 160 Design Patented in India

Honda PCX 160

Honda had also patented the PCX 160 maxi-scooter design in India, leading to speculation that Honda may be finally getting ready to launch the Yamaha Aerox 155 and Hero Xoom 160 rival in India. The PCX 160 is also expected to be one of the models on display, but it remains to be seen if Honda only takes a single model approach to the segment and plans just the ADV 160 for the Indian market. The PCX is also powered by the same 157 cc engine as the ADV 160, but has a lower 765 mm seat height, and kerb weight of 132 kg.

Also Read: Honda PCX 160 Design Patented in India

Honda CRF300L

The Honda CRF300L is a lightweight, dual-sport motorcycle which holds high importance for the Indian market. If Honda is indeed planning to bring the CRF300L to India, it will represent Honda’s foray into an untapped segment. While India has a growing line-up of sub-400 cc adventure motorcycles, true dual-sport models are a handful, and will prove to be a good trail addition to experienced adventure riders, or also serve as an upgrade from the likes of the Hero XPulse 210, or offer a more powerful alternative to the Kawasaki KLX 230.

Also Read: Honda Eyeing Small-Capacity Dual-Sport Market in India?

Honda Rebel 300

If the Honda Rebel 300 is manufactured in India and offered on sale, it will prove to be an extremely important product for Honda in India. Priced right, it could become a strategic product offering a premium cruiser in a segment which has the likes of the Royal Enfield Meteor 350 and the Yezdi Roadster. Powered by a 286 cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine with a 172 kg kerb weight, the Rebel 300 could offer a Honda with a globally-renowned bobber-style cruiser with a low-slung seat making it accessible and possibly with a competitive price tag.

Honda CB500R

The Honda CB500R is a popular middleweight sportbike powered by a 471 cc, parallel-twin engine producing around 46 bhp. If introduced in India, Honda will offer a model which will offer a great bridge between entry-level, single-cylinder sportbikes and full-blown litre-class models. If launched, the CB500R will offer a great alternative to models like the Aprilia RS457 and the Kawasaki Ninja 500.

Honda CB500 Hornet

Like the CB500R, the CB500 Hornet is powered by the same 471 cc, parallel-twin engine, but is a middleweight naked which bridges the gap between affordable 300 cc naked street bikes and high-end performance nakeds. If made in India and launched at a competitive price, the CB500 Hornet could offer an accessible, premium, entry-level middleweight naked for riders upgrading from smaller motorcycles.

Flex-Fuel Models of Activa, Shine Expected

Honda is also expected to introduce products with more than one kind of fuel, as car&bike has learnt. This could mean flex fuel variants of Honda’s bestselling models like the Activa scooter, and the Honda CB Shine, which could be showcased at the event. The Honda Activa Flex Fuel. as well as the Honda Shine Flex Fuel could also be unveiled, to be launched in the coming months.

Unlike the separate 125th Anniversary Collection, which celebrates the brand's heritage, the Signature Series is centred around Indian Motorcycle's modern touring lineup. Each motorcycle receives bespoke paintwork with multiple layers, unique graphics and premium finishing touches to distinguish it from the standard models.

One example is the Chieftain PowerPlus Signature Series, which features an Abyss Metallic base complemented by Venom Green and Cypher Green accents extending across the fairing, fuel tank and saddlebags. Similar treatment has been given to the other three motorcycles in the range.

Powering all four models is Indian Motorcycle's 1,834cc liquid-cooled PowerPlus 112 V-twin engine, producing 126 bhp and nearly 180 Nm of peak torque. The Challenger and Chieftain PowerPlus cater to buyers looking for performance-oriented baggers, while the Pursuit and Roadmaster PowerPlus are designed for long-distance touring with additional luggage capacity and greater passenger comfort.

The Signature Series also carries over the PowerPlus range's comprehensive electronics suite, including lean-sensitive ABS, traction control, electronically linked braking, hill hold control, blind-spot detection, tailgate warning and rear collision warning.

Indian Motorcycle has not yet confirmed production numbers or market allocation for the Signature Series, and it remains to be seen whether any units will make their way to India.

Simple's new family-oriented scooter builds on the company's experience with the Simple One and the recently introduced Simple Ultra, both of which have been positioned as performance-oriented electric scooters. Simple Energy is also among the first Indian manufacturers to develop heavy rare earth-free electric motors for commercial production and currently offers a lifetime warranty on its motor and battery.

Also Read: Simple Energy Patents New Electric Scooter

With most major EV manufacturers already competing in the family scooter segment, the new model is expected to help Simple Energy strengthen its presence in the broader electric two-wheeler market. The company will reveal the scooter's specifications, features and pricing at its official debut on September 2.

Also Read: MG M9, Cyberster Prices Hiked By Up To Rs 5 Lakh

The biggest increase in the regular trims has been applied to the Excite variant, which is now Rs 60,000 dearer. The Exclusive and Essence variants equipped with the 38 kWh battery pack have received a Rs 46,900 hike each. Meanwhile, the larger 52.9 kWh battery-equipped Exclusive Pro and Essence Pro variants now cost Rs 51,900 and Rs 39,900 more, respectively.

Ex-showroom prices
 

Following the revision, the MG Windsor EV is now priced between Rs 14.69 lakh and Rs 18.99 lakh (ex-showroom) for private buyers. On the fleet side, the Commute trim introduced in April 2026 has witnessed the steepest hike of Rs 75,000, now priced at Rs 14.24 lakh. Buyers can also opt for MG's Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) programme, which lowers the upfront cost of the EV in exchange for a battery subscription.

Also Read: MG Cyberster, M9 Couture Editions Unveiled: Bookings Open

Aside from the revision in prices, there are no changes to the Windsor EV. The standard variants continue with a 38 kWh battery pack offering a claimed range of 331 km, while the Pro variants use a larger 52.9 kWh battery with a claimed range of 449 km. The Pro variants also add equipment such as a powered tailgate, while the top-spec Essence Pro comes with a Level 2 ADAS suite.

Also Read: MG ADAPT Platform For India Debuts; To Underpin New Plug-In Hybrid SUV

The Windsor EV remains one of MG's strongest-selling electric models in India. In June 2026, the company announced that wholesale dispatches of the electric model had crossed the 75,000-unit mark in less than two years since its launch in October 2024.

Also Read: Yamaha Aerox Electric Launched In India At Rs 2.82 Lakh

Instead of using a hub-mounted or swingarm-mounted motor, the scooter features a centrally mounted electric motor that sends power to the rear wheel via a belt drive. This arrangement is typically associated with better weight distribution and easier suspension tuning.

The patent also shows the battery positioned beneath the seat, with the packaging suggesting that it could either be removable or swappable. Another unusual detail is the placement of the twin rear shock absorbers, which are mounted further forward than on a conventional scooter, likely to accommodate the battery pack.

Also Read: Yamaha R2 India Launch Expected in August 2026

Beyond the mechanicals, the scooter sports a futuristic and striking design. Up front is a distinctive LED headlamp with twin rectangular lighting elements flanking a V-shaped DRL. Other visible features include disc brakes at both ends, telescopic front forks, a long single-piece seat, keyless operation, a TFT instrument display and storage compartments integrated into the front apron.

While Yamaha has not disclosed any technical specifications or production plans, the scooter's proportions suggest it is aimed at the 125cc-equivalent segment. If it reaches production, it could be introduced into the growing electric scooter space. For now, since the design is currently in patent filing stage, there is no official confirmation on its launch timelines for the global or Indian market.

Image Credits

Rakesh Sharma, Joint MD, Bajaj Auto, said that domestic motorcycle revenue recorded double-digit growth, aided by the sports motorcycle segment, where retail sales grew 1.5 times as fast as the rest of the industry. Sales of the Pulsar, Avenger and Dominar brands increased by double digits, while the overall sports segment grew nearly 50 per cent. Going forward, Bajaj Auto is planning further upgrades across the 125-160 cc Pulsar range, he said.

Also Read: 2026 Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z (350 cc) First Ride Review

Updated Motorcycles To Roll Out From August 2026

“Beginning in November last year, we undertook a portfolio makeover because several products that had served us well and driven market-share expansion after Covid had begun to show end-of-cycle fatigue,” Sharma said. He added that 10 “substantially new motorcycles” in the 125 cc and 160 cc Pulsar segments will be introduced over the next six weeks, completing the portfolio makeover.

Also Read: 350 cc Bajaj Dominar 400 First Ride Review

“By the festive season in October, we should have a completely new and upgraded portfolio. Part of it is already in the market, while the remaining products will begin rolling out from August,” Sharma said. 

Also Read: Triumph Tracker 400 First Ride Review

The KTM and Triumph brands continued their strong growth trajectory, with domestic revenue growing 60 per cent year-on-year in the June quarter. Bajaj Auto attributed the performance to strong demand for the 350 cc motorcycle range across both brands and the launch of the new Triumph Tracker 400. The company also expanded its KTM-Triumph dealership network to more than 90 towns, strengthening its premium motorcycle presence across India. 

Range Rover GT: Exterior

Despite having what appears to be the familiar (and imposing) Range Rover front-end, the GT's appearance is almost certain to polarise opinion.

In profile, the GT is far removed from the boxy silhouette of the regular Range Rover; it appears low-slung, with a fastback-type rear section. The roof slopes downwards like every other coupe-SUV, but the dip is not quite as sharp, with the roof tapering off only gently towards the tail.

Range Rover GT: Interior

The Range Rover GT's interior is also completely new for the Range Rover family. It's minimal, with a compact digital driver's display and a large touchscreen infotainment system, which houses almost all vital vehicle controls. The dashboard is completely devoid of physical buttons, and even the two-spoke steering wheel appears to house touch controls. The drive mode selector is placed behind the steering wheel on the right, and inner door handles have been replaced by a small release switch.

A woven textile wraps around the dash, which also houses a single, concealed full-width airconditioning vent. The Range Rover GT has a fixed glass roof that stretches all the way back to the rear seatbacks, and the SUV appears to have integrated touch controls for the rear seat passengers as well. 

Range Rover GT: Platform and powertrains

The Range Rover GT will be revealed first as a battery electric vehicle, but don't mistake this for a smaller version of the soon-to-be-unveiled Range Rover EV. While the full-size electric SUV is built on the MLA platform, the Range Rover GT is built on the EMA architecture, the first electric Range Rover to emerge on this platform.

No technical specifications have been shared as yet, but we expect it to pack a dual-motor setup, and a large battery that will provide a range in excess of 500 kilometres. Later, JLR will also roll out a hybrid powertrain for the Range Rover GT, but no timeframe has been provided for the same.

For now, final road tests are being completed, before production of the Range Rover GT begins at the JLR plant in Halewood, United Kingdom, ahead of its full reveal in the coming months. 

Also read: Consumer Court Orders Maruti Suzuki To Replace Grand Vitara Over E20-Related Damages; Carmaker To Escalate Matters In Higher Court

 

In a regulatory filing with the Bombay Stock Exchange, the carmaker cited elevated ‘inflationary burdens’ and an ‘adverse cost environment’ as reasons necessitating the revision in prices. Interestingly, Maruti Suzuki was one of the few carmakers in 2026 not to hike prices across its portfolio in January or April this year - the two months generally see carmakers adjust prices across the board for their models.
 

Also read: Maruti Suzuki Brezza Facelift Bookings Open Ahead Of July 24 Launch
 

‘The Company is constrained to pass on a portion of the increased costs to the market, while continuing to ensure that the impact on customers is kept to the minimum extent possible,’ read the company statement in the filing.
 

Also read: Maruti Suzuki Victoris Prices Slashed By Rs 39,000
 

The carmaker has not specified a date for when the updated prices will come into effect in August.

Also Read: Reise tourRad Adventure Touring Tyres Launched From Rs. 3,099

The Traverse suit combines ripstop textiles with Cordura reinforcement panels in high-abrasion areas, while DuraTek Superfabric Shield panels with Kevlar-infused yarn add another layer of protection at the elbows and knees. The jacket comes equipped with D3O Level 2 armour for the shoulders, elbows, chest and back, while the pants receive Level 2 protectors for the knees and hips.

Also Read: Reise Adds New Waterproof Motorcycle Luggage Options

For improved comfort over long rides, the suit features Reise's AirMorph ventilation system, multiple fit adjustment points and four-way stretch panels to enhance mobility. The jacket and pants also connect via a full-circumference zipper, while reflective detailing and multiple storage pockets add to their touring credentials.

The Reise Traverse Jacket is priced at ₹21,999, while the Traverse Pants cost ₹14,999.

Also read: Mercedes-AMG E53 PHEV India Launch On July 23
 

The cabin meanwhile gets fewer noticeable changes other than new upholstery colour options, though a majority of the focus has been shifted on enhancing the in-cabin experience. Mercedes says that the latest Maybach GLS features enhanced sound deadening for an even quieter cabin experience. The MBUX Superscreen is still offered as standard, though it now runs the latest MB.OS software, including an AI-powered voice assistant. Other in-cabin enhancements include an upgraded Burmester 3D surround sound system as standard with additional speakers in the rear cabin and a new 710 W amplifier.

Also Read: New Mercedes-Benz GLB EV India Launch Confirmed

The seat massage functions for the front seats and the optional individual rear chairs too have been upgraded, while owners can now option a new ‘High End Rear Seat Entertainment Package’ that adds full HD 11.6-inch screens to the front seat backs replete with embedded cameras to take video calls. The GLS also gets an upgraded Level 2+ ADAS suite supported by 10 exterior cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors.

Also Read: Mercedes-Benz India Posts Record H1 Sales Of 9,768 Units; Q2 Retail Reaches 4,637 Units

For ease of ingress and egress, the Maybach GLS gets a new electrically deployable illuminated sidestep that deploys every time the door is opened.
 

On the mechanical side of things, the Maybach GLS also gains the new twin-turbo 4.0-litre M177 EVO V8 engine. Compared to the older twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8, the new unit features a flat-plane crankshaft and develops 595 bhp and 850 Nm - up from 550 bhp and 770 Nm. Power continues to be sent to all four wheels via 4Matic all-wheel-drive and a 9-speed automatic gearbox. Mercedes says that the steering too has been retuned for more agile handling.
 

Ride quality is also expected to improve with the Maybach GLS getting the upgraded air suspension set-up from the standard GLS as standard. This includes active dampers that use Vehicle-to-X tech to use cloud-based data to adjust damping settings based on information gathered from other vehicles travelling the same route. E-Active Body Control remains an option.

Also Read: Mahindra Rolls Out Three Millionth Vehicle From Chakan Plant

The Scorpio Classic continues to be offered in two trims – S and S11 – spread across four variants. All four have received a price revision, with the entry-level variants seeing hikes of up to Rs 39,000, while both S11 variants now cost Rs 40,000 more than before.

Ex-showroom Prices
 

Following the revision, the Scorpio Classic is now priced between Rs 13.37 lakh and Rs 17.40 lakh (ex-showroom).

The Scorpio Classic continues with a 2.2-litre diesel engine that churns out 130 bhp and 300 Nm, paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox sending power to the rear wheels.

The company had temporarily paused the fitment of the Gear Position Indicator due to a shortage of rare-earth materials required to manufacture the component. With the supply chain issue now resolved, Royal Enfield has resumed installation of the feature on motorcycles that were produced during the affected period.

Also Read: Royal Enfield Classic 350 With Assist & Slipper Clutch Launched At Rs. 1.95 Lakh

Owners can determine if their motorcycle qualifies for the update by checking the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the company website. Alternatively, customers can visit or contact their nearest authorised Royal Enfield service centre, where the VIN can be verified and the Gear Position Indicator installed free of charge if the motorcycle is eligible.

The Gear Position Indicator displays the currently selected gear on the instrument cluster, making it easier for riders to know which gear they are in. While experienced riders may rely on instinct, the feature is particularly useful for newer riders, helping them choose the appropriate gear and ride more efficiently.

Also Read: Citroen Aircross Comfort Edition Launched; Prices Start At Rs. 9.09 Lakh

Most of the changes are centred around the cabin. Along with Metropolitan Beige leatherette seats as standard, the Basalt X Comfort Edition also bundles the Comfort AXS Pack, which was earlier offered separately on the You and Plus variants. The package adds a JBL audio system, front and cabin dash cameras, a reverse parking camera, wireless charging, and a 10-inch touchscreen.

Also Read: Citroen Aircross X Max 5-Seat Variant, C3 Live (O) Launched In India

On the powertrain front, the Basalt X Comfort Edition continues to be offered with a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 81 bhp and 115 Nm, or a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol unit that develops 108 bhp and 195 Nm with the manual gearbox and 205 Nm with the automatic. The naturally aspirated engine is paired with a 5-speed manual, while the turbo-petrol can be had with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The Basalt rivals the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Honda Elevate, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, Tata Sierra, Renault Duster, Nissan Tekton and the Maruti Victoris in the mid-size SUV segment. 

Also read: Hyundai Boulder Concept Showcased At New York Auto Show; Is This The Off-Road SUV Coming To India?

Up front, the grille features a notable blanked-out panel at the centre with thin openings above and below. The headlamps are four individual units stacked one atop the other on each side of the grille, while a vertical DRL signature sits along the outer of the fascia. The front bumper is shallow and chunky, featuring a notable skid plate element with a mesh-pattern intake at the centre. The squared-out front fenders do link the SUV to the boulder, though the bonnet line here looks to stretch onto the top of the fender - compare to the more G-class-like clamshell on the Boulder. The A-pillar design also looks to have differences, with the unit seemingly merging into the protruding fender.
 

Also read: Hyundai Creta Electric Launched With Battery-As-A-Service; Prices Start At Rs 10.99 lakh
 

The squared-out wheel arches feature protruding cladding with notable use of black and silver cladding under the doors as well. The exaggerated squared-out rear fender is again in line with the Boulder. The window line also gets some differences, including the lack of Alpine windows seen on the Boulder concept. As with the Boulder, the new SUV also looks to get rear-hinged rear doors.
 

Hyundai Boulder Concept.

The patent image also features auxiliary lighting mounted to the bonnet as well as a roof rack and windshield protectors - the cables extending from the roof rack to the fenders - suggesting that this is a concept.
 

Also read: New Hyundai Elantra Makes Global Debut: Boxy Styling, Hybrid Powertrain & Pleos Infotainment
 

Further details on the SUV remain unknown at this point, though we expect Hyundai to unveil it as a concept in the coming months.

Hyundai has previously confirmed that India is set to get an off-road-ready SUV in the coming years. Could this concept be the SUV in question? Well it remains to be seen.

Ex-showroom prices
 

The latest revision comes just months after MG increased prices across its range in April, citing rising input costs. In June 2026, the company had also announced a price hike of up to 3 per cent across its lineup from July 1, 2026, attributing it to higher input and operational expenses, which essentially results in the price hike seen on both models.

Also Read: MG ADAPT Platform For India Debuts; To Underpin New Plug-In Hybrid SUV

Aside from the price hike, nothing changes for both electric cars. The MG M9 continues with a 90 kWh battery pack driving a front-mounted electric motor. It has an ARAI-certified range of 548 km and is offered as a seven-seater with features such as massage and ventilated second-row seats, dual sunroofs, a Level 2 ADAS suite and a 13-speaker JBL audio system.

The Cyberster also remains mechanically unchanged. It is powered by a 77 kWh battery pack paired with dual electric motors producing 528 bhp and 725 Nm, enabling a claimed 0-100 kmph time of 3.2 seconds. MG claims a driving range of 580 km on a single charge.

In other news, MG recently unveiled Couture Editions of the Cyberster and M9 in collaboration with fashion designer Gaurav Gupta. Limited to just 50 units each, the special editions will continue to be retailed exclusively through MG Select, with order books being opened. Prices are set to be announced on August 3.

Also Read: MG's New Starlight 560-Based SUV To Join Hector Family

While mechanically identical to the standard models, the Couture Editions feature cosmetic changes inspired by Gupta's ‘Serpent Infinity design motif’, including exclusive embroidery, tonal finishes and handcrafted detailing in and out.

Also Read: MG ADAPT Platform For India Debuts; To Underpin New Plug-In Hybrid SUV

The special editions are based on the standard Cyberster and M9 but feature bespoke cosmetic changes inspired by Gupta's ‘Serpent Infinity design motif’. The theme has been incorporated through embroidery, tonal finishes and handmade detailing across both vehicles.

Under the skin, however, both models remain unchanged. The Cyberster retains its dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup producing 528 bhp and 725 Nm. Powered by a 77 kWh battery pack, the electric roadster claims a 580 km range and can sprint from 0-100 kmph in 3.2 seconds.

Also Read: MG's New Starlight 560-Based SUV To Join Hector Family

The MG M9 continues with a 90 kWh battery pack paired with a front-mounted electric motor. It has a claimed ARAI-certified range of 548 km and is offered in a seven-seat layout.

The standard Cyberster is currently priced at Rs 82.50 lakh, while the M9 is priced at Rs 79.95 lakh (both ex-showroom). The Couture Editions are expected to command a premium over this, with prices set to be announced on August 3.

Tata Motors South Africa has revealed very little about the Osprey so far. What it has confirmed is that the SUV will carry a five-star NCAP safety rating, which is in line with the Nexon sold in India.

Also Read: Tata Sierra Sales Cross 50,000 Mark: New Jubilee Edition Introduced

There's no word yet on the engine options. In India, the Nexon is offered with a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol and a 1.5-litre diesel engine, paired with a choice of 5-speed and 6-speed manual gearboxes, a 5-speed AMT or a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic, depending on the variant. Tata has also not confirmed if the all-electric Nexon EV is under consideration for the market.

The Osprey will be the latest model introduced since Tata's return to South Africa in August 2025. The company had pulled out of the country's passenger vehicle business in 2019 after struggling with low sales, but re-entered the market through a partnership with Motus Holdings. Since then, Tata has expanded its portfolio, with the Osprey becoming its fifth passenger vehicle in the country.

The Viper patent is particularly noteworthy as it closely matches the scooter currently sold in Vietnam. Unlike an earlier patent filing that featured several styling differences, this version carries the production model's sharp bodywork, single-piece LED headlamp, five-spoke alloy wheels, and hub-mounted motor. Back in Vietnam, the Viper is powered by a 4.8 kWh battery pack paired with a 3 kW electric motor.

Also Read: VinFast Working On New Electric Scooter For India

The second filing is for an electric motorcycle that bears a striking resemblance to the Sulad concept, which VinFast showcased earlier this year as part of its future electric motorcycle strategy. Although the company has yet to reveal official specifications, reports from Vietnam suggest the production version could feature an electric motor producing up to 50 kW and a claimed top speed of around 130 kmph.

While these latest patent filings suggest the company is keeping its options open and could eventually introduce additional models, including an electric motorcycle, a design patent does not guarantee a market launch, but it does indicate that VinFast is actively evaluating these products for India. The company has not yet confirmed a launch timeline for either the Viper or the electric motorcycle.

Also read: Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale Unveiled: The Gated Shifter Is Back, But Not Quite As You Remember
 

In terms of the design, the Amalfi Spyder gets a few design updates over its coupe sibling. These come down to the 5-layer fabric folding roof and a revised rear deck design that now houses a covered stowage area for the roof to fold into. Ferrari claims that the 5-layer roof design offers equal sound insulation as a hard-top convertible roof. The Spider also features deployable wind deflectors behind the rear seat - this is a 2+ GT, though the rear seat is best for children. The cabin design too is shared with its Coupe sibling, with a large 15.6-inch digital instrument cluster, 10.3-inch landscape-oriented central touchscreen and a dedicated front passenger display.

Also Read: 1035 bhp Ferrari Luce Is Brand’s First-Ever Electric Car

In terms of boot capacity, the Amalfi Spider offers up to 255 litres of storage capacity, which drops to 172 litres when the roof is folded down.
 

As before, clients will be offered a wide range of customisation options, ranging from exterior colours and wheel designs to upholstery options, stitching and even features offered in the car.

Also Read: Ferrari 849 Testarossa Launched In India

Coming to the powerplant, the Amalfi Spider uses the same 3.9-litre twin-turbo V8 as its Coupe sibling. The unit is good for a peak of 631 bhp and 760 Nm and is paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. Ferrari claims a top speed of 320 kmph with 0-100 kph dusted in 3.3 seconds - identical to the Coupe.
 

In terms of pricing, the Amalfi Spider costs a little over Rs 50 lakh more than its Coupe sibling, which is now priced at Rs 4.08 crore (ex-showroom) following FTA-related price adjustments.

New Annual Average Fuel Consumption Standard Computation Variables
 

The updated norms bring some changes over the previous draft, the biggest of which is a reduction of the Constant Multiplier (CM) used in the computation. While the previous draft called for a fixed CM of 0.002 l/100 km per kg, it has been reduced to 0.00158 for FY2028 and will reduce yearly to 0.00131 for FY2032.
 

The weight fixed constant has been increased from 1170 kg to 1229 kg. Similarly, the fuel consumption fixed constant starts at 3.9960 l/100 km per kg and reduces to 3.3273 l/100 km per kg for FY2032 - higher than the previously proposed 3.7264 for FY2028 and 3.019 for FY2032.
 

The overall computation formula has stayed unchanged.

In terms of overall calculations, the reduced CM and higher weight constant seemingly reduce the Average Fuel Consumption Standard compared to the metrics in the previous draft based on rough calculations. The formula calls for multiplying the CM by the difference between the Annual weighted average unladen mass and the weight constant. To this, the fixed fuel consumption constant is added. So if the weighted average unladen mass were to be 2500 kg, the computation for FY2028 comes out as follows:

Opens Doors For New Technologies To Be Factored Into Fuel Consumption Calculations
 

The new draft adds a new clause under ‘Performance Assessment’ that will allow the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways to ‘separately develop appropriate certification methodologies to certify reduction of fuel consumption’ for elements such as mild-hybrid tech and more.
 

The new clause lists a host of technologies including engine stop-start, tyre pressure monitoring, regenerative braking, using a gearbox with 6- or more forward ratios, 12/48 V motor generators (mild hybrid tech), LED exterior lighting, high-efficiency AC system and Solar-reflective paint. The technologies will be required to meet some minimum criteria such as an engagement time of less than or equal to 2 seconds for the stop-start system, 6 per cent or greater energy recovery on MIDC for regenerative braking and a minimum motor efficiency of 78 per cent for mild hybrid tech.
 

Carbon Neutrality Factor For Diesel Added
 

Another update over previous drafts is the addition of a clause for diesel under the Carbon Neutrality Factor (CNF). The document states that ‘For Diesel vehicles, CNF on tailpipe CO2 emission shall be as per biofuel blending percentage notified by MoPNG’ (Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas). Unlike for CNG, flex fuel and e20 vehicles, no CNF percentage has yet been provided.

Other smaller changes are the addition of the terms SHEV and PHEV alongside ethanol-blended petrol for Carbon Neutrality Factor (8 per cent; 22.3 per cent if engine uses flex fuel), while the ethanol blends have been left open-ended on the upper end - whereas the older draft only stated E20 to E30. The draft also reduces the Volume Derogation factor for super credits for strong hybrid vehicles (non-flex-fuel) from 2.0 to 1.6, which will affect the Annual Average of Actual Fuel Consumption computations.
 

The Annual Average Fuel Consumption and Annual Average of Actual Fuel Consumption calculations will be used for the computation of compliance credits. Lower Actual Fuel Consumption means additional credits for the manufacturer and vice versa.
 

New Credit Buyout Scheme
 

Continuing with the compliance credit scheme, the new draft allows manufacturers to buy compliance credits from the BEE to offset a debit balance. Each credit will be priced at Rs 2,500 per gCO2 per km for FY2028, rising to Rs 4,500 in FY2032.

Also read: Maruti Suzuki Brezza Facelift Bookings Open Ahead Of July 24 Launch
 

These have mainly been rebuffed by the government and carmakers, who have continued to state that the fuel is safe for use in all vehicles, with only a minor drop in mileage expected. The new ruling could open the doors for complaints by multiple parties against Maruti Suzuki as well as other carmakers across India.
 

The Complaint
 

The complainant, Dr Premraj Devta, cited that his vehicle had, on multiple occasions, broken down or underperformed while running on E20 petrol, with the first instance occurring within six months of taking delivery. Dr Devta purchased a 2023-manufactured Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Zeta+ Strong Hybrid in the year 2024.
 

The vehicle was sent to the service centre, with the culprit identified as fuel contamination within the fuel tank on the first occasion, with the same problem being repeated a second time. Subsequent testing of the fuel showed the presence of ethanol.
 

Also read: Maruti Suzuki Victoris Prices Slashed By Rs 39,000
 

The complainant also cited that the vehicle continued to stall in spite of the interventions.
 

Counter Argument
 

Maruti Suzuki and its dealer partner Nexa Magnato (where the vehicle was purchased) countered that the issues with the vehicle were due to fuel contamination - an external factor. The parties also argued that the vehicle was not defective and that fuel contamination-related issues were not covered under warranty.
 

The Court Ruling
 

In its ruling, the Court stated that simple repairs were not a proper resolution of the issue, as well as noting that the vehicle - manufactured in January 2023 - did not meet E20 compliance. This was cited as a reason for the repeated issues with the vehicle’s powertrain.

It also noted that the opposition party’s measures of blaming contaminated fuel and failure to replace the vehicle with an E20-compliant model were unfair trade practices. The court ruled that Maruti Suzuki and its dealer partner were to either replace the complainant’s Grand Vitara with a new E20-compliant vehicle or pay the party a little over Rs 20.50 lakh as compensation. The compensation amount would include the vehicle’s ex-showroom price, RTO charges and insurance premium amount. Furthermore, Maruti Suzuki was ordered to pay Rs 1 lakh as compensation for mental anguish and Rs 10,000 in litigation charges.

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki CNG Sales Rise Post Petrol Price Hike
 

End of the Matter? Not Yet!
 

The matter, while over in the Consumer Court, looks to be far from over. Maruti Suzuki, in a statement, said that the vehicle in question was E20 compatible and was fully equipped to handle the fuel. The company also stated that the Consumer Court order did not take into consideration multiple other factors. The company is now looking to take matters to a higher court.

With inputs from LiveLaw & Reuters

The Trooper Trail gets an all-new graphic theme inspired by trail riding and adventure touring, angular lines and layered diagonal patterns that flow from the top of the shell towards the chin section. The helmet is offered in six colour combinations: White-Blue/Red, Black-Grey/Chameleon Blue, Grey-Black/Orange, Black-Grey/Red, Grey-Black/Grey and Black-Grey/Fluorescent Yellow. Buyers can choose between gloss and matte finishes across the range.

Also Read: STUDDS Helios Effect Helmet Launched At Rs. 3,445

Among these, the Black-Grey/Chameleon Blue variant stands out with a colour-shifting finish that changes between blue and teal depending on the lighting and viewing angle, making it the first Trooper edition to receive this paint treatment.

The Trooper Trail continues with the same flip-up chin mechanism, allowing riders to lift the front section without removing the helmet. It features a high-impact ABS shell, an EPS liner with regulated-density foam, a scratch-resistant visor with a tool-free quick-release mechanism and carries both ISI/BIS and DOT certifications. Additional features include UV-resistant paint, a quick-release chin strap and a rust-resistant stainless-steel buckle.

Available in Medium, Large and Extra-Large sizes, the STUDDS Trooper Trail is now on sale through authorised Studds dealerships as well as online retail channels.

The 2027 Hayabusa will be offered in two new standard colourways – Glass Sparkle Black and Metallic Reflective Blue. Meanwhile, joining them is a Special Edition finished in Pearl Brilliant White and Metallic Oort Gray with contrasting red highlights. The Special Edition additionally comes with few exclusive touches that include exclusive badging, a raised Suzuki emblem on the fuel tank, black-finished exhaust end caps and a colour-matched solo seat cowl fitted as part of the package.

Power to the Hayabusa continues from the same 1,340cc liquid-cooled inline-four engine that develops 190 bhp and 150 Nm of peak torque. The motor continues to be paired with a six-speed gearbox and a bidirectional quickshifter. The motorcycle also retains Suzuki's Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.), which includes multiple riding modes, traction control, launch control, cruise control, cornering ABS, and several other rider aids.

In India, the Suzuki Hayabusa currently retails at a sticker price of ₹18.05 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). While the Indian arm of Suzuki is yet to confirmed if the new colours will make it to our shores, one can be rest assured for the new liveries to make it here in the near future.

Hero has partnered with Austria-based KSR Group to oversee sales, logistics and after-sales support. The company will initially operate through a network of more than 28 authorised sales and service outlets across major German cities, with plans to expand the network to 30 dealerships. As part of its launch strategy, Hero is also offering customers a five-year warranty package, comprising a three-year standard manufacturer warranty and an additional two-year promotional extension.

Also Read: Hero Karizma XMR 250 Spotted Undisguised Ahead Of India Launch

Hero's German lineup will initially consist of the Euro 5+ compliant XPulse 200 4V adventure motorcycle range consisting of the XPulse 2004V and XPulse 200 Pro. Both models are powered by a 200cc four-valve single-cylinder engine producing 19 bhp and 17.35 Nm of peak torque. While the standard XPulse 200 4V is positioned as an accessible dual-purpose motorcycle with an 825 mm seat height and is priced at 2,990 euros, the XPulse 200 Pro is targeted at riders seeking greater off-road capability, featuring fully adjustable long-travel suspension, 270 mm of ground clearance, handlebar risers and a taller 891 mm seat height. The Pro variant is priced at 3,290 euros.

The expansion into Germany further strengthens Hero MotoCorp's presence in Europe as the company continues to grow its international business with products tailored to meet regional regulations and customer preferences.

Also read: Kia Syros EV Unveiled: 169 BHP Motor, Up To 526 KM Range
 

In terms of design, the Syros EV, for the most part, looks identical to its ICE sibling down to the alloy wheel designs. The changes come in the form of tweaks to the front bumper, including a slimmer upper air intake above the number plate and the charging flap located on the front fender. Inside, the basic dashboard and seat design are unchanged, though you now get a revised central floor console between the front seats. The gear selector has been moved to the steering column, which opens up space for a faux walk-through design with additional storage space at the base of the dashboard. The EV also gets a 3-spoke steering wheel compared to the ICE SUV’s two-spoke unit.
 

Coming to the variants, the Syros EV is offered in HTK, HTK+, HTX, HTX+ and X-Line trim levels. There are two battery options to pick from - 42 kWh and 51.4 kWh, the same as in the Hyundai Creta Electric and Kia Carens Clavis EV. The 42 kWh unit is offered from the HTK to HTX trims, while the 51.4 kWh battery is available from the HTK+ trim. Variants with the larger battery get an ER (extended range) suffix
 

Also read: Kia Syros EV Spied Undisguised Ahead Of India Launch
 

Here is what you get in each variant:
 

Kia Syros EV HTK
 

• LED headlamps
• Auto headlamps
• LED tail lamps
• LED fog lamps
• 16-inch alloy wheels
• Flush sitting door handles
• Gloss black finished skid plates & ORVM
• 12.3-inch digital instrument screen
• 12.3-inch touchscreen
• 5.0-inch touchscreen for climate controls
• Rear AC vents
• Wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay
• Steering-mounted audio & telephone controls
• Shift-by-wire gear selector
• Paddle shifters (regen settings)
• Tilt-adjust steering
• Drive modes (Eco, Normal & Sport)
• USB C-Type charging outlet - 2 front, 2 rear
• Electric adjust & auto folding wing mirrors
• Electronic parking brake
• Power windows
• Tyre pressure monitoring
• Front centre armrest with storage
• All-wheel disc brakes
• Remote central locking with burglar alarm
• 6 airbags
• ABS with brake assist
• ESC
• Rear parking sensors
• ISOFIX child seat anchors
• Front passenger airbag deactivation switch
  
   

Also read: Kia Carens, Carens Clavis Cumulative Sales Cross 3 Lakh Units
 

Kia Syros EV HTK+/ HTK+ ER

In addition to HTK
 

• Reverse camera
• Cruise control
• 100W USB Type-C charging socket (front)
• 17-inch alloy wheels (HTK+ ER)

Kia Syros EV HTX/ HTX ER

In addition to HTK+
 

• Panoramic sunroof
• Rear wiper & washer
• Rear defogger
• Parcel shelf
• LED turn signals
• One-touch power window operation (all doors)
• Split folding rear seat
• Rear centre armrest
• Adjustable rear headrests
• 17-inch alloy wheels (HTX ER)
• Kia Connect 2.0 connected car tech with OTA (HTX ER)

 Also Read: Kia Seltos GTX(O), X-Line(O) Launched At Rs 21.57 Lakh; Gets Enhanced ADAS Tech, New Features

Kia Syros EV HTX+ ER

In addition to HTX
 

• Pop-out door handles
• Leatherette upholstery
• Metal-finished pedals
• 12.3-inch touchscreen with integrated navigation
• Harman-Kardon sound system (8-speakers)
• Auto-dimming IRVM
• Battery heating system
• Ventilated front seats
• Ventilated rear seat base
• 4-way power adjust driver seat
• Wireless phone charger
• Front parking sensors
   

Kia Syros EV X-Line ER

In addition to HTX+
 

• 64-colour ambient lighting
• LED footwell lamps
• Vehicle-to-Load capabilities (inside cabin)
• Puddle Lamps
• Side parking sensors
• Level 2 ADAS with 16 features

Coming to the powertrain, Front Wheel Drive is standard. In the smaller 42 kWh variants, the electric motor develops a peak of 133 bhp and 255 Nm, which is bumped up to 169 bhp and 255 Nm, making the Syros the most powerful sub-4m EV in the market. In terms of range, Kia claims a range of 443 km for the 42 kWh variants, which increases to 526 km with the larger battery.
 

In terms of charging, the Syros supports 10.8 kW AC charging and 100 kW DC fast charging. Kia claims a 10 to 100 per cent charge of up to 4 hours 50 mins at peak AC charging, while a 10 to 80 per cent DC fast charge can take as little as 39 minutes.

Also Read: 2026 Triumph Daytona 660 Gets Feature and Hardware Updates Overseas

Premium Hardware and Sportier Ergonomics

Based on the Speed Twin 1200 RS, the TFC receives a host of upgrades aimed at improving both exclusivity and performance. It swaps the standard handlebar for clip-ons, giving the motorcycle a more committed riding position. Suspension is upgraded with fully adjustable Öhlins upside-down front fork setup and twin rear shock absorbers, while braking continues to be handled by Brembo Stylema M4.30 calipers, complemented by a Brembo MCS adjustable front brake lever. Lastly, the motorcycle also features an Akrapovič titanium silencers with carbon-fibre end caps, contributing to a wet weight of 214 kg—2 kg lighter than the standard Speed Twin 1200 RS.

Also Read: 2026 Triumph Bonneville T120, Bobber and Speedmaster Launched In India

Engine and Features

Powering the Speed Twin 1200 TFC is the same 1,200cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine from the standard Speed Twin 1200 RS that develops 104bhp at 7,750 rpm and 112Nm of torque at 4,250 rpm. The engine is paired with a six-speed gearbox. The engine and electronics package remain the same from the RS and includes a bidirectional quickshifter, three riding modes, cornering ABS and switchable traction control.

Also Read: Triumph Bonneville 400 Spotted In India: Launch Soon?

Exclusive Finish and Limited Production

The Speed Twin 1200 TFC is offered exclusively in an Obsidian Gold paint scheme featuring a metallic black base, gold detailing and extensive carbon-fibre components, including the mudguards, side panels and heel guards. It also gets a hand-stitched single-piece seat for a more premium finish.

Each motorcycle carries a laser-etched production number on the billet aluminium top yoke alongside the TFC logo. Buyers will also receive a Certificate of Authenticity, a branded motorcycle cover and a waterproof seat cover, further underlining the model's collector appeal.

Also Read: Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 Limited-Edition Launched At Rs. 5.75 Lakh

Also Read: 2021 Royal Enfield Classic 350 Review: Gets the New J-Series Engine

2026 Royal Enfield Classic 350: What’s New?

As mentioned, the dual-channel ABS variant now gets slip and assist clutch as well as a USB C-type charging port. The single-channel ABS variant in Redditch Red misses out on these two updates and is priced at Rs. 1.87 lakh (Ex-showroom).

Along with the new features, the Classic 350 also gets some meaningful updates. The LED headlamp is now said to get improved illumination, along with adjustable clutch and brake levers. The updated instrument panel now comes with a gear position indicator. LED turn indicators were introduced in 2024 on the Classic 350.

2026 Royal Enfield Classic 350 New Features
 

• Assist & Slipper Clutch
• USB C-Type Fast Charging Port
• Adjustable Clutch & Brake Levers
• Gear Position Indicator
• Improved Headlight Illumination

2026 Royal Enfield Classic 350: What’s Unchanged

Mechanically, there are no changes in the 2026 Classic 350. It continues to be powered by Royal Enfield’s 349 cc, J-series engine, which puts out 20.2 bhp at 6,100 rpm and 27 Nm of peak torque at 4,000 rpm. The engine is mated to a five-speed gearbox. 

The chassis and cycle parts remain unchanged as well, and the Classic 350 continues to have a kerb weight of 195 kg, with 90% fuel and oil, and a saddle height of 805 mm. The 41 mm telescopic front forks with 130 mm travel have been retained, as is the 6-step preload adjustable twin tube rear shocks with 90 mm travel.

2026 Royal Enfield Classic 350 Prices & Colour Options

The 2026 Royal Enfield Classic 350 is offered in a total of seven colour options, with prices for the base single-channel ABS Redditch Red starting at Rs. 1.87 lakh (Ex-showroom) going up to Rs. 2.24 lakh (Ex-showroom) for the Emerald Green colour option.

2026 Royal Enfield Classic 350: Variant Wise Price List

Also Read: Royal Enfield Goan Classic 350 First Ride Review

Also read: MG's New Starlight 560-Based SUV To Join Hector Family

 

Will Support Hybrid, Plug-In Hybrid, Electric & Range Extender Powertrains
 

MG Motor India showcased the new platform in the form of rolling chassis featuring plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and all-electric (EV) powertrain options. The company has, however, confirmed that the platform will be able to support additional electrified powertrain options, including a self-charging hybrid and a range extender EV - featuring an engine that is used solely to charge the battery. The carmaker, however, did not provide any specifications of the upcoming new cars on the ADAPT platform.
 

Two of Three NEVs Due in FY2027 To Sit on ADAPT Platform
 

MG also confirmed that the first EV and plug-in hybrid models on the new platform would arrive in the current fiscal year as two of the three ‘New Energy Vehicles’ for the Indian market it has previously confirmed. A second all-electric model is also due to arrive by March 2027, though that is expected to be underpinned by a different platform. The ADAPT platform is expected to underpin MG’s version of the Wuling Starlight 560 SUVs that have been spied testing in India. Globally, the Starlight 560 is offered in all-electric and plug-in hybrid avatars, which could be the same for India.
 

Also read: JSW MG Motor India To Launch Two EVs, One Plug-In Hybrid In FY2027
 

PHEV To Feature New 10-in-1 Electric Drive Unit, Electromagnetic Dedicated Hybrid Transmission
 

Focusing on the platform technology, MG did divulge some details on the upcoming PHEV. As per the company, it will feature a first-in-India 10-in-1 electric drive unit working alongside a petrol engine and a world-first Electromagnetic Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT). MG says that even the petrol engine has been developed specifically for hybrid system applications.

Also read: New MG plug-in hybrid SUV Spied testing In India Again
 

Also read: MG Starlight 560 SUV Design Patented In India
 

MG has also revealed that the ADAPT platform will be able to support multiple drive configurations for hybrids - Pure Electric, Series Hybrid (engine powers the electric motor), Parallel Hybrid (engine & motor drive the wheels) & Direct Engine Drive (engine powers the wheels). The carmaker says that the vehicle will be able to actively switch between the drive modes based on user inputs and driving conditions.

Also read: Mahindra XUV 7XO vs Tata Safari vs Hyundai Alcazar: Which Three-Row SUV Families Should Consider?

 

Commenting on the milestone, R Velusamy, President – Automotive Business, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., said, “The rollout of our three-millionth vehicle, the BE 6, from Chakan marks a proud milestone in Mahindra’s manufacturing journey. The acceleration from 107 months for our first million vehicles to just 27 months for the latest million reflects the growing trust of our customers and the unwavering commitment of our people, partners, and suppliers.”

Also read: Mahindra To Ramp Up XEV 9S Production In Next 4-5 Months
 

Mahindra commenced production at the Chakan plant in December 2009, with the facility crossing the 1-million-unit production milestone in September 2018. The two million milestone arrived in March 2024, with the three million unit mark now being announced in July 2026 - about 27 months later.

Also read: Mahindra To Launch 16 New SUVs By 2031
 

Also read: Mahindra ATV Revealed; It’s A Thar Roxx Ready For Armed Forces
 

The BE 6 was one of Mahindra’s first two ‘Born Electric’ SUVs built on the INGLO architecture. Alongside the XEV 9e, the SUV was launched in India in late 2024, with deliveries starting in 2025. The BE 6 is offered with a choice of battery options - 59 kWh and 79 kWh, across five trim levels. Prices for the BE 6 start from Rs 18.90 lakh (ex-showroom).

The Range Rover Sport electric is expected to carry similar design cues as well as features as seen on its  ICE models. Range Rover has confirmed that the SUV will come with a 118.5 kWh battery pack which will be responsible for maximum power output of 550 PS. With a reduced center of gravity the SUV will come with features like adaptive damping, rear wheel steering and a unique sound design. It will also have multiple drive modes, intelligent regeneration modes as well as single pedal drive characteristics.

Martin Limpert, Managing Director, Range Rover, said: “Electric power brings a new edge to Range Rover Sport. The preview at Goodwood Festival of Speed is only a glimpse of how this model will redefine performance SUVs again later this year, combining the refinement and immediate performance of electric drive while further elevating the unmistakable character of Range Rover Sport our clients already know and love.”

Also Read: UK-India FTA Impact: CBU Range Rover Prices Slashed By Up To Rs. 75 Lakh

The SUV is built on Jaguat Land Rover’s flexible Modular Longitudinal Architecture (MLA) Flex platform for electrified vehicles. The introduction of an electric model will further expand an already vast portfolio of the SUV which also includes a plug-in electric hybrid, mild-hybrid V8 petrol and six-cylinder petrol and diesel engine models. Range Rover has also confirmed that all the nameplates in its range will have all electric models before 2030 so this will include both Velar and Evoque. 
 

Also read: JSW MG Motor India To Launch Two EVs, One Plug-In Hybrid In FY2027
 

Starlight 560-Based SUV To Be Retailed Under Hector Nameplate
 

Wuling Starlight 560 PHEV

The Starlight 560-based MG SUV, however, will not be sold in India under the same name as its Wuling namesake. The SUV for India is expected to be sold under the Hector nameplate, albeit with a new suffix. As per reports, the company recently applied for a trademark for the Hector Hawk & Hector Hawk Plus nameplate, suggesting that the SUV could be retailed as a more premium alternative to the Hector and with multiple seating configurations.
 

Also read: New MG plug-in hybrid SUV Spied testing In India Again
 

Image Source

MG has traditionally used the Plus suffix to signify an additional row of seats, suggesting that the Starlight 560-based SUV could come in both two-row and three-row configurations.
 

MG has yet to confirm a date for the launch of its upcoming NEV, though it has been spied testing on Indian roads in both hybrid and all-electric guises in recent months. This suggests that the Starlight 560-based SUV could arrive in both plug-in hybrid and all-electric guise going forward, with MG having confirmed 2 new EVs for FY2027 alongside its first-ever Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV).
 

Also read: MG Starlight 560 SUV Design Patented In India
 

Powertrain Details
 

Image Source

MG is expected not to fiddle with the powertrain details too much over the global model, which in PHEV spec features a 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with a 20.5 kWh battery and a front-mounted electric motor. In global markets, this set-up develops a peak of 194 bhp and 230 Nm, offering an EV-only range of 100 km. Cumulative range is claimed to be over 1,000 km.

Also read: MG Windsor EV Sales Cross 75,000 Units In Under 2 Years
 

Wuling Starlight 560 EV.

As for the EV, it also gets front-wheel drive as standard with the electric motor paired with a 56.7kWh battery pack, giving the SUV a claimed range of up to 500 km. The electric motor develops a peak 134 bhp and 200 Nm.

Also Read: Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 Review

Also Read: Royal Enfield Flying Flea C6 Launched At Rs. 2.79 Lakh

Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 x Rough Cuts: What’s special?

Styled with a combination of gloss jet black and matt stealth black, the Shotgun 650 x Rough Crafts limited-edition model gets gold leaf stripes with subtle grey accents, a cast brass collaboration badge and limited-edition numbering on the tank. Other premium additions include matching black bar-end mirrors, quilted leather seats, contrast-cut alloy rims, and gold fork inner tubes. 

Also Read: Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Apex First Ride Review

Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 x Rough Cuts Design Inspiration

It is inspired from the Caliber Royale custom build by Rough Crafts, which was first showcased at EICMA 2025 before making its India appearance at Motoverse 2025.  The Caliber Royale featured stretched proportions, signature fairing, handcrafted finishes in gloss and matte paint, gold leaf accents and minute changes to the frame. 

Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 x Rough Cuts: Price & Availability

The Shotgun 650 x Rough Cuts Limited-Edition model will be offered in 25 units in each region, between July 27-30, 2026. The first 25 customers in each region will earn the privilege of owning the limited-edition Shotgun 650. To participate on the sale day, interested parties may register themselves in the Drop Zone on the Royal Enfield website or mobile app between July 15, 2026 and July 30, 2026. 

Also read: Kia Syros EV Spied Undisguised Ahead Of India Launch
 

Kia Syros EV: Battery, range and performance

As is the case with most EVs today, the Syros EV will be available in standard-range and long-range forms, with batteries identical in capacity to the ones found in the Hyundai Creta Electric.

The standard Syros EV is equipped with a 42 kWh battery, while the long-range model has a 51.4 kWh battery - the largest yet seen on a sub-4 metre EV in India. Both packs use nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) cells and employ liquid cooling.

Also read: Kia Carens, Carens Clavis Cumulative Sales Cross 3 Lakh Units
 

When it comes to fast charging, Kia says the Syros EV can go from 10 to 80 per cent in just 39 minutes when plugged into a 100 kW DC fast charger, and the SUV also features 10.8 kW AC onboard charging.

On the MIDC Full test cycle, Kia says the standard-range Syros EV will cover up to 443 kilometres, while the long-range Syros EV will be capable of covering up to 526 kilometres. Kia claims the Syros EV is the first EV in its segment to breach the 500-kilometre range mark when it comes to MIDC testing.

Also Read: Kia Seltos GTX(O), X-Line(O) Launched At Rs 21.57 Lakh; Gets Enhanced ADAS Tech, New Features

What will catch the eye of enthusiasts is the power the Syros EV is packing. The long-range Syros EV has a 169 bhp motor, which is a tremendous amount of power for a subcompact SUV. With so much zing on tap, the Syros EV Long Range will go from 0 to 100 kmph in 8.1 seconds, says Kia.

Also read: Hero MotoCorp To Invest Additional Rs. 1,000 Crore in Ather Energy
 

Production EL01 To Headline Community Day Unveils

In a statement, Ather Energy announced the theme for the 2026 Community Day is 'A new dawn of magic', and confirmed the production EL01 will be unveiled alongside a 'range of innovations across technology, charging' and new ownership options.

This is in line with what the 2025 edition of Ather Community Day had to offer. Last year, along with the reveal of the new EL platform and EL01 concept, Ather had pulled the wraps off new features for its existing scooters, new fast-charging tech and the radical 'Redux' concept.

Also read: Ather 450X Overtones Series Launched; Gets Faster Charging & New Colours
 

Ather EL01: What we know so far

Unlike the 450 series and the Rizta, which make extensive use of aluminium in their construction, the Ather EL01 will switch to a full steel unibody architecture. Ather has previously suggested the EL01's weight increase will be negligible over its current scooters, despite going from aluminium to steel.

The EL01 will be the first Ather scooter to employ a 14-inch front wheel, but the rear is expected to be a 12-inch wheel. Spy shots of the test mule suggest the design and styling will largely mirror that of the concept, with a subtle 'smiling' LED daytime running light on the apron.

Suspension duties will be handled by a telescopic fork and a single rear shock absorber like on the Rizta, but on the EL01, the rear shock has been moved closer to the tail to liberate more suspension travel.

Also Read: 2025 Ather 450X Long Term Review

The EL01 will have an integrated onboard charger to avoid a portable charger eating into storage space. However, total space under the seat will be less than what the Rizta offers, which will be one key differentiator between the two scooters that will be sold side-by-side in Ather showrooms.

The EL01 is expected to be offered with batteries ranging from 2 kWh to 4 kWh, but the platform can accept a battery as big as 5 kWh, Ather has previously confirmed. The EL01 will also be equipped with a direct-drive motor, just like on the Bajaj Chetak 35.

Also Read: Ather Energy Now Has 700 Experience Centres

To be manufactured at Ather's brand new facility in Maharashtra, the Ather EL01 will slot in below the Rizta in the company's scooter lineup. It won't be entirely surprising to see the base EL01 duck the Rs 1 lakh mark, as part of an introductory offer, with the top-spec variant priced at Rs 1.25 lakh.

Spy image source: God-speed_

Also Read: Ather EL01 Electric Scooter Spotted On Test

Also Read: Ather Energy Has 700 Experience Centres Across India

How Long Will the Investment Take?

The investment is subject to necessary approvals, including those from Ather’s board and shareholders. According to Hero MotoCorp, the transaction, which will be made entirely in cash, is expected to be completed within 15 days of Ather receiving the last of the required approvals. 

Also Read: Ather EL01 To Debut In Production Form On August 29

Ather Energy will organise the fourth edition of the brand’s community day on August 29, 2026. The company has announced that it will launch its new electric scooter, based on the all-new EL platform. The production model is expected to be similar to the EL01 concept which was showcased at the Ather Community Day event in 2025. 

Also Read: Ather Achieves 5 Lakh Production Milestone

Also Read: Ather Rolls Out Voice Command Functionality For Its Electric Scooters

How Much Investment Does Hero Have in Ather Energy?

Hero MotoCorp has been one of the first investors in Ather Energy, even before the company launched its first product range in the 450 series. Hero currently also has its own electric two-wheeler vertical, under the Vida brand. 

However, even before producing its own electric two-wheelers, Hero had initially invested Rs. 205 crore in Ather Energy as early as 2016. Over the years, Hero has participated in almost every major funding round in Ather Energy. With the latest Rs. 1,000 crore investment, Hero’s cumulative investment in Ather Energy has crossed Rs. 2,400 crore.

In its new generation, the hybrid sedan is dimensionally larger than its predecessor. Signature L-shaped lighting elements and a refined rear design are exterior highlights while the sedan also gets electronic door latch releases. It is available in many colour options including the newly launched SOU and Sonic Copper. A 14.0-inch high-definition touchscreen that comes with connected features dominates the central dash inside the cabin. Responsive Hidden Switches stand out here and are a world first according to Lexus.

Also Read: All-New Lexus ES Launched In India at Rs 89.99 Lakh; Gets All-Electric Powertrain For First Time

Hikaru Ikeuchi, President of Lexus India, said, “The new model underscores Lexus’ multi-pathway approach to electrification and reinforces our dedication to advancing sustainable mobility in India. Our focus remains on offering our guests a broader portfolio of electrified vehicles, and the new ES 350h stands as a testament to that promise. We are confident that the All-New ES 350h will further enhance the appeal of the ES lineup among our esteemed guests.”

The ES 350h is powered by a 2.5 L inline 4-cylinder engine, a new eAxle with the PCU (Power Control Unit) integrated into the transaxle, and a lithium-ion battery. Lexus says the hybrid system provides a high-level balance between high power performance and fuel economy & quietness. The new ES also gets Lexus Safety System+ which comes with several ADAS functions. Bookings for the luxury sedan have now begun.  

Also Read: Opinion - India's Ethanol Blending Policy Needs More Clarity & Transparency

Also Read: E20 Petrol May Damage Rubber Components in Older Vehicles 

“We’d like to assure everyone that all motorcycles made by us at Bajaj Auto, are fully compatible with the E20 fuel usage. And this is true not only for recently made bikes, but for motorcycles made by us for more than the last 10 years. This has been achieved after rigorous work by our R&D teams. For this reason, our warranty terms and conditions hold true even true for the usage of E20 fuel type."

Also read: 2027 Triumph Speed 400, Scrambler 400 X Revealed in New Colours
 

“As you are aware, we sell our bikes not only in India, but all over the world. In fact, in a country like Brazil, the fuel type is E27, that is 27 per cent ethanol, and we sell our bikes over there, which run perfectly well, and we have not received any kind of product complaints for this reason,” said Sumeet Narang, President – Central Marketing, Bajaj Auto Ltd.

Also Read: How the Sudden Push for E20 Petrol Is Creating Problems for Carburetted Motorcycles

Bajaj has also included KTM and Triumph bikes produced over the last 10 years, which are E20 compliant. The single-cylinder made-in-India Triumph models were first introduced in 2023, although Bajaj has been manufacturing small-capacity KTM bikes in India since 2002. Assuring customers that all motorcycles manufactured by Bajaj will not have any adverse effect of E20, Bajaj Auto has said that a marginal drop in fuel efficiency can be expected.

Also read: 350 cc Triumph 400 Models Prices Hiked Yet Again
 

“A marginal drop in fuel efficiency can be expected. But as you are aware, there are other stronger factors like driving conditions, riding habits and maintenance, which need to be optimised to get you the best mileage performance. So, go ahead and buy your favourite Pulsars, Dominars, KTMs, Avengers or Triumphs, made by Bajaj Auto proudly in India. We’ve got you covered,” added Narang.  

The statement by Bajaj Auto comes amidst increasing public outcry over India’s ethanol blending policy. The government has repeatedly said that E20 will not have any adverse effect on the engine parts of vehicles, although a slight drop in fuel efficiency can be expected. While there has been a call by consumers and experts alike to make E10 available even as an option, the government has dismissed this possibility.

Also read: Bajaj Pulsar 220F Updated With LED Headlight: Now Priced At Rs 1.36 Lakh
 

On July 14, Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has ruled out making E10 available, saying that India has achieved 20 per cent ethanol blending and E20 is now available at every fuel station in the country. According to Gadkari, people who do not want ethanol blended fuel can opt for 100 per cent petrol, which costs nearly 64 per cent more. In Delhi, regular E20 costs approximately Rs. 102 per litre, while ethanol-free petrol costs more than Rs. 167 per litre.

Also read: Maruti Suzuki Victoris Prices Slashed By Rs 39,000
 

Maruti Suzuki Brezza Facelift: What To Expect?

The teasers provide only glimpses at the design, though much of it is familiar. The headlamps are unchanged over the outgoing model, with the top variants getting LED bi-projector units with J-shaped daytime running lamps. The grille, too, looks to get no real differences over the outgoing model, save for a red contrast strip that likely suggests that the variant is a sportier one. The side cladding looks to get some tweaks near the door sills, while at the rear, the tail lamps look unchanged over the current SUV.
 

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki CNG Sales Rise Post Petrol Price Hike

Spy images have suggested that the SUV will get a revised front bumper with tweaks also expected to the rear. Top variants are also set to get new design alloy wheels.

Inside, the big changes are expected to come in the form of new features, with the overall cabin design set to be unchanged. New features are likely to include tech such as ventilated front seats, among other features.
 

Also Read: Maruti Baleno Facelift Spied Testing; Previews Design Updates

Maruti Suzuki Brezza facelift: Powertrain Options
 

Coming to the powertrain, the current car’s 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine is set to soldier on with manual and automatic gearbox options. The big change, however, is expected to come in the form of the familiar 1.0-litre Boosterjet turbo-petrol unit from the likes of the Fronx, as well as a new 6-speed manual gearbox (likely to be offered only with the Turbo) that has been seen on test mules. The turbo-petrol is expected to make similar power and torque as in the Fronx - 99 bhp and 147 Nm. In comparison, the 1.5 NA in mild-hybrid spec makes a peak of 101.6 bhp and 139 Nm.

There could be some performance gains for the new Brezza despite the minor difference in figures, given that the Boosterjet unit develops peak torque from around 2000 rpm in the Fronx compared to the NA petrol’s 4,300 rpm peak.

Additionally, the CNG variants are now set to get an underbody CNG storage system similar to that in the Victoris.

Maruti Suzuki Brezza Facelift: Pricing
 

As for the price, expect prices for the Brezza to see a minor rise over the outgoing model to account for the additional tech and new engine and gearbox option.

Also Read: Hero Xpulse 421 Spotted Testing At Khardung La

Although the overall design remains familiar to the existing Karizma XMR 210, the 250 receives several styling updates to set it apart. The projector LED headlamp and signature boomerang-shaped LED DRLs have been retained, but the front fairing now extends further below the headlamp, giving the motorcycle a sharper and more aggressive look. Notably, unlike the Xtreme 250R which uses a tyre hugger-mounted number plate mount, the Karizma XMR 250 retains a conventional tail-mounted registration plate bracket.

Furthermore, it features a taller windscreen and integrated winglets first showcased on the concept. Along the sides, the Karizma XMR 250 sports bolder graphics along with gold-finished upside-down front forks, a muscular fuel tank, clip-on handlebars and split seats. 

Also Read: Hero MotoCorp Flags CAFE Norm Risks for Two-Wheelers Ahead of New Fuel Efficiency Rules

The biggest upgrade, however, comes for the motor. Replacing the current model's 210cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine will be Hero's new 249cc liquid-cooled, DOHC single-cylinder motor that debuted on the Xtreme 250R. The engine develops 29.5 bhp and 25 Nm of peak torque and is paired with a six-speed gearbox.

Also Read: Hero Vida VX2 Plus With 4.4 kWh Battery Launched At Rs 1.44 Lakh

The Karizma XMR 250 is expected to be priced above the current Karizma XMR 210, which starts at Rs 1.86 lakh (ex-showroom). With an expected starting price of over Rs 2 lakh (ex-showroom), it will become Hero MotoCorp's flagship faired motorcycle and will take on rivals such as the KTM RC 200, Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 and the upcoming Yamaha R2.

Image Credit

Also read: Kia Syros EV Spied Undisguised Ahead Of India Launch
 

Commenting on the milestone Sunhack Park, Chief Sales Officer, Kia India said, “The 300,000-unit milestone for the Carens underscores its position as a segment leader and a true game-changer in the MPV space. This achievement is a direct result of our product-led strategy, our sharp understanding of customer needs, and our unwavering focus on quality. It strengthens our conviction that the Carens is the benchmark for its class, and we are energised to build on this momentum as we accelerate our growth journey."

Petrol Accounts For Largest Share Of Sales
 

Providing a brief overview of its sales breakdown, Kia said that the petrol variants of the MPV accounted for the largest share of units sold. The carmaker said that 60 per cent of buyers opted for a petrol engine option while 30 per cent of the sales came from the diesel-powered model. Buyers, for the majority of the MPV’s lifecycle, could choose between two petrol and one diesel engine option, with an all-electric option arriving in July 2025.
 

Also Read: Kia Seltos GTX(O), X-Line(O) Launched At Rs 21.57 Lakh; Gets Enhanced ADAS Tech, New Features

The EV accounts for about 10 per cent of sales.
 

A Little Under 20 Per Cent of Buyers Opt For Top Variants
 

Kia also revealed that 18 per cent of all buyers opted for the top variants of the MPV, which come loaded to the gills with tech, including ADAS, dual 12.3-inch displays, connected-car tech, ventilated front seats, and more.
 

Also Read: Kia Cars To Get Costlier From July 1: Prices Up By Up To 2%

Buyers Offered a Wide Range Of Choice
 

Currently, Kia’s Clavis MPV family is spread across three model lines. The first is the original Carnes, which is still available in a single Premium (O) trim with either a 1.5-litre NA petrol or 1.5-litre diesel engine, both with a manual gearbox as standard. Moving to the newer Carens Clavis, internal combustion buyers can pick between a 1.5 NA petrol, 1.5 turbo-petrol and 1.5 diesel engine options spread across 12 trim levels - eight of which offer the option of a six-seat configuration.
 

Also read: Second-Gen Kia Sonet Spied Testing In India; Debut Likely In 2027
 

The Clavis EV is similarly offered with two battery pack options - 42 kWh and 51.4 kWh - spread across seven trim levels.
 

Also read: Renault Duster 1.0 Turbo Fuel Efficiency Figure Revealed
 

In terms of features, the Adventure Edition builds on the feature list of the Duster Evolution with additional features from the Techno. These features include Full LED headlamps, a panoramic sunroof, powered tailgate and dual-zone auto climate control. The Adventure Edition also gets edition-specific graphics, embellishers and floor mats. Other features on offer include a 10.1-inch touchscreen, connected car services, and 17-inch Ocean alloy wheels.

Also Read: 2026 Renault Duster Review: The Hero Returns, But Does He Deliver?
 

In terms of price, the Adventure Edition roughly costs Rs 50,000 less than the Duster Techno. Compared to the Duster Evolution, the Adventure Edition TCe100 costs about Rs 1.3 lakh more, while the TCe160 is priced at a premium of between Rs 90,000 and Rs 1 lakh.

Also read: Renault Duster 1.0-Litre Turbo Review: Small Engine, More Than Enough Performance
 

Also read: Renault Duster Turbo DCT Real-World Fuel Efficiency Tested
 

On the powertrain front, the new Duster Adventure Edition is offered with both the 1.0 TCe100 turbo-petrol and the 1.3 TCe160 turbo-petrol engine options. The former makes 99 bhp and 166 Nm, while the latter develops 161 bhp and 280 Nm. A 6-speed manual gearbox is standard with the 1.3 Turbo, also getting the option for a 6-speed DCT unit.

Also Read: New-Gen Toyota Hilux India Launch On July 28

Changes on the facelifted Hycross are expected to be mostly cosmetic, with changes to headlamps/tail lamps signature, bumper design (both fore and aft) and some newer paint scheme. We could also expect a newer alloy wheel design, but any changes more than these aren’t likely. Even on the inside, the changes will be limited to some feature additions and refinements to the existing ones at most.

This being a facelift, the changes under the skin are likely to be little to none. The proven strong hybrid powertrain will continue without any changes, but we could see the addition of the newer flex-fuel version with this facelift. 

Also Read: Toyota Achieves New Milestone Of 3 Lakh Strong Hybrid Vehicle Sales In India

More details on the updated Hycross are expected to follow in the coming months as we approach the festive season. 

Source

CAFE norms are currently applicable to passenger vehicles, but the regulations are expected to expand to two-wheelers in the future. Once implemented, manufacturers will have to ensure that the average fuel efficiency of their entire product portfolio meets government-prescribed targets, rather than focusing on individual models.

Also Read: Hero MotoCorp To Launch New Premium 150-350 cc Products

According to Hero MotoCorp, the move is particularly important in a market like India, where two-wheelers account for the largest share of personal mobility. Better fuel efficiency would help reduce running costs for consumers while also lowering the country's dependence on imported crude oil and reducing overall carbon emissions.

However, the company believes that the transition will not be possible without challenges. Hero MotoCorp has stated that if the regulations are introduced abruptly—potentially due to changing geopolitical conditions or energy security concerns—manufacturers may not get sufficient time to prepare. This could force companies to redesign existing products at a much faster pace, leading to higher engineering and manufacturing costs while also increasing the risk of missing compliance deadlines.

The company further stated that India's highly price-sensitive two-wheeler market makes it difficult for manufacturers to pass on these additional costs to customers. As a result, stricter regulations could put pressure on profitability and affect competitiveness, especially for brands with large internal combustion engine (ICE) portfolios.

Hero MotoCorp also pointed out that failing to comply with future CAFE regulations could expose manufacturers to financial penalties, product recalls and reputational damage. Since conventional petrol-powered motorcycles and scooters continue to contribute the majority of industry sales, improving their efficiency will remain crucial even as electric mobility gains momentum.

Also Read: Hero Xpulse 421 Spotted Testing At Khardung La

To prepare for the transition, Hero MotoCorp said it is investing in more fuel-efficient engines and increasing the use of lightweight materials to improve overall vehicle efficiency. At the same time, the company is expanding its electric vehicle portfolio, which will help lower fleet-wide emissions and improve compliance with future fuel economy targets.

Beyond product development, Hero MotoCorp said achieving future CAFE requirements will also require a broader transformation across the automotive supply chain. Suppliers and component manufacturers will need to develop advanced technologies and manufacturing capabilities to support the next generation of more efficient two-wheelers.

The company also confirmed that it is working with policymakers through the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) to ensure that future CAFE norms for two-wheelers are technically achievable and practical for the industry. Hero believes that realistic implementation timelines and achievable targets will be critical in allowing manufacturers to meet regulatory requirements without significantly increasing costs for consumers.

Also Read: Hero Vida VX2 Plus With 4.4 kWh Battery Launched At Rs 1.44 Lakh

With the government’s push towards stricter emissions and fuel efficiency standards, Hero MotoCorp's statement underlines the requirement for a balance—delivering cleaner and more efficient motorcycles and scooters while ensuring they remain affordable for the buyers. With petrol-powered two-wheelers expected to continue dominating the market for the foreseeable future, manufacturers are required to simultaneously improve internal combustion technology and subsequently fast-track the adoption of electric mobility to meet evolving regulatory requirements.

Also Read: Hero XPulse 421 Spotted Testing At Khardung La

New Premium Products Planned 

“Our premium journey centres on elevating the customer experience through Premia outlets and the launch of premium products under both the Hero MotoCorp and Harley-Davidson brands. We are also investing in enhancing product excellence to deliver a delightful premium experience to our customers. We plan to launch products in the fast-growing 250-350 cc segment, along with the continued build-out of the Premia channel and aspire to become a meaningful player in the premium category.

The company notes in its annual report that premiumisation gained momentum in FY 26 and will continue to outpace broader motorcycle market growth. The company is expected to launch a bigger and more performance oriented 421 cc model in its Hero XPulse adventure bike range.

“The premiumisation trend gained further momentum in FY 2025-2026, with the premium motorcycle segment growing by 18 per cent YoY, significantly outpacing the overall motorcycle market. The trend accelerated following the GST rate rationalisation, particularly in the sub-350 cc segment, where improved affordability lowered entry barriers, attracting first-time premium buyers and encouraging consumer upgrading,” the report noted.

Also Read: Hero Vida VX2 Plus With 4.4 kWh Battery Launched At Rs. 1.44 Lakh

Motorcycle Segment Above 350 cc Face Consolidation

However, motorcycle segments of above 350 cc continue to face headwinds, primarily owing to higher tax slabs, under the new GST rates which came into effect from April 1, 2026. While the sub-350 cc premium segments are witnessing acceleration, the segment for motorcycles exceeding 350 cc entered a period of relative consolidation. Currently, Hero only has the two 440 cc Harley-Davidson models in this segment above 350 cc. 

Also Read: Harley-Davidson Sprint To Be Introduced Based On X440 Platform

“Under the revised GST structure, these high-capacity models were classified under a 40% ‘luxury’ slab, up from the previous effective rate of 31%. However, market prices in this category remained largely stable as most OEMs opted to absorb the tax hike, thereby shielding the buyers from price shocks. However, the segment remains sluggish compared to the booming 150 cc – 350 cc ‘sweet spot’, where the combination of advantages and product refreshes currently offer a more compelling value proposition for the modern Indian rider,” the report notes.

Also Read: 2026 Harley-Davidson X440T Review

More Investment For New Products

In its annual report, Hero MotoCorp has disclosed that the company has earmarked Rs. 1,500 crore for its planned capital expenditure in FY 2026-27, for doubling EV capacity and expansion of ICE scooters and premium motorcycles production. 

While the premium two-wheeler industry has witnessed a sustained high growth, Hero MotoCorp remains under-represented in this segment. Hence, winning in the premium segment is a critical pillar of our business strategy,” the report added.

Commenting on the launch, Kashish Kapur, Director, Steelbird Hi-Tech India Ltd., said, “The IGNYTE Carbon Fibre Series represents our vision of creating premium helmets that combine world-class safety, advanced materials, and exceptional craftsmanship. Every helmet has been designed and manufactured in-house with a strong focus on innovation, lightweight performance, and rider protection.”
 

Ignyte says that the new Carbon Fibre Series features an Expanded Polypropylene (EPP) liner reinforced with Kevlar at its core. The company claims that the EPP liner is capable of regaining its shape in the case of low-severity impacts. Additional features include an anti-fog & anti-scratch visor, antimicrobial interior liner and multi-colour exposed carbon fibre texture. Additionally, the IGN-14 and IGN-16 also come with an additional smoked visor, while the IGN-16 also gets customised fitting head foam.
 

All helmets in the Carbon Fibre Series come with a 3-year warranty.

Also Read: Nissan Tekton Bags 5 Stars In Bharat NCAP Crash Tests

Nissan Tekton vs Kia Seltos: Dimensions

The Seltos is the larger SUV overall, measuring 111 mm longer, 15 mm wider and riding on a 33 mm longer wheelbase. The Tekton, meanwhile, stands 39 mm taller and offers 212 mm of ground clearance along with a bigger 518-litre boot. Both models ride on 18-inch alloy wheels, though each gets its own distinct wheel design.

Also Read: Nissan Tekton Makes Global Debut; Launched At Rs 10.49 Lakh

Nissan Tekton Tekna+ vs Kia Seltos GTX (O): Engine & Gearbox

The Tekton is offered only with turbo-petrol engines, with the flagship variant using a 1.3-litre turbo producing 161 bhp and 280 Nm. The Seltos GTX(O), meanwhile, gives buyers more flexibility with both turbo-petrol and diesel engine options. While the Nissan makes more power and torque than the petrol Seltos, Kia's diesel gives it an edge.

Also Read: Kia Seltos GTX(O), X-Line(O) Launched At Rs 21.57 Lakh; Gets Enhanced ADAS Tech, New Features

Nissan Tekton Tekna+ vs Kia Seltos GTX (O): Features

Both SUVs are well-equipped, offering features such as panoramic sunroofs, ventilated front seats, dual-zone climate control, wireless phone charging and powered tailgates.

Also Read: 2026 Kia Seltos Review: Formula Is Spot On, But Is The Timing Right?

Nissan Tekton Tekna+ vs Kia Seltos GTX (O): Safety

Both models offer a strong safety package, with 5-star Bharat NCAP ratings, six airbags, ESC, TPMS, hill start assist and 360-degree cameras as standard. They also get Level 2 ADAS, although the Seltos goes a step further with a Level 2+ suite and additional parking sensors on the sides. Kia also includes front and rear dashcams as standard, while these are offered as an optional accessory on the Tekton.

Also Read: Nissan Tekton vs Renault Duster: What Are The Key Differences?

Nissan Tekton Tekna+ vs Kia Seltos GTX (O): Price

Price is where the Tekton makes its strongest case. The Tekton Tekna+ range starts at Rs 16.49 lakh, thanks to the inclusion of the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol manual, making it Rs 5.08 lakh more affordable than the entry-level Seltos GTX(O), which starts at Rs 21.57 lakh. Even if you compare the range-topping DCT versions of both SUVs, the Tekton undercuts the Seltos by Rs 3.23 lakh. 

While the Seltos justifies part of its premium with a richer feature list and a diesel option, the Tekton delivers a comparable overall package at a significantly lower asking price. 

Also Read: Kia Seltos GTX(O), X-Line(O) Launched At Rs 21.57 Lakh; Gets Enhanced ADAS Tech, New Features

At first glance, the Syros EV looks almost identical to the standard ICE-powered Syros. It retains the same upright proportions, boxy silhouette and tallboy stance, with only a handful of EV-specific changes. The front grille has been sealed off, and another noticeable difference is the silver housing for the fog lamps, while the rest of the fascia remains largely unchanged. It also carries over the same alloy wheel design seen on the ICE model.

At the rear, the L-shaped tail lamps remain in place on either side of the rear windscreen, while the bumper has been slightly revised with silver-finished housing that mirrors the front design. As seen in earlier test mules, the charging port is positioned on the front left fender.

Also Read: Kia Cars To Get Costlier From July 1: Prices Up By Up To 2%

Spy images also offer a glimpse of the cabin, which appears to be carried over from the standard Syros. The 30-inch panoramic display is visible, while features such as a panoramic sunroof, sliding and reclining rear seats, and rear seat ventilation are also expected to be offered. One feature that remains uncertain is ADAS, especially after Kia removed the driver assistance suite from the MY26 update of the ICE-powered Syros.

Under the skin, the Syros EV is expected to share its electric powertrain with the Carens Clavis EV, which itself is based on the Creta Electric's setup. This means buyers could get a choice of 42 kWh and 51.4 kWh battery packs, paired with a front-mounted electric motor. The larger battery is expected to deliver a claimed range of up to 490 km on a single charge.

Once it goes on sale, the Syros EV is expected to become Kia's most affordable electric vehicle in India. It will compete with models such as the Tata Nexon EV, MG Windsor EV, Mahindra XUV 3XO EV and other models in the segment.

Image Source

The new battery pack has a total capacity of 4.4 kWh, split across two removable 2.2 kWh battery packs. Hero claims an IDC-certified range of 187 km on a full charge, making it the longest-range VX2 Plus yet. For reference, the 3.4 kWh variants provide 146 km while the smaller 2.2 kWh is good for 93 km on a single charge (IDC figures).

Also Read: VIDA Reveals New Brand Logo, Enters Asia Book of Records

Power comes from the same electric motor producing 6 kW (8.04 bhp) of peak power and 26 Nm of torque. However, the larger battery allows the scooter to achieve a higher claimed top speed of 90 kmph, up by 10 kmph as compared to 80 kmph on the 3.4 kWh variant. Ride modes remain the same – Eco, Ride and Sport modes – while a Boost function is also available.

For this new battery pack, a 1 kW portable charger handles charging duties. Hero claims the battery can be charged from 0-80 per cent in 3 hours 17 minutes, while a full 0-100 per cent charge takes 5 hours 8 minutes. The scooter also supports DC fast charging, which can replenish the battery from 20-80 per cent in 28 minutes, 0-80 per cent in 65 minutes, and 0-100 per cent in 2 hours 50 minutes under standard test conditions.

Feature-wise, the new variant mirrors the existing VX2 Plus. It comes equipped with a 4.3-inch TFT display, smartphone connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation, and over-the-air (OTA) software updates.

Also Read: Tata Sierra Pure, Pure+ Variants Explained In Pictures

Sierra Jubilee Smart+ Edition:

The Sierra Jubilee Smart+ Edition features a front grille add-on, tailgate cladding and roof rails, along with exclusive semi-leatherette seat covers. It also gets a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a rear-view camera and a four-speaker audio system.

Also Read: Tata Sierra ICE vs EV: What Are The Differences & Similarities?

Sierra Jubilee Pure Edition:

The Sierra Jubilee Pure Edition comes equipped with a front grille add-on, tailgate cladding and roof rails, along with exclusive semi-leatherette seat covers. It also adds a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a rear-view camera and a four-speaker audio system. 

Also Read: New Tata Sierra: Variants, Features, Engine Options Explained

Sierra Jubilee Adventure Edition:

Based on the Adventure trim, the Sierra Jubilee Adventure Edition adds the ROQ exterior kit with a front grille add-on, tailgate cladding, wheel arch cladding and roof rails. It also gets exclusive semi-leatherette seat covers, a leatherette steering wheel cover, magnetic sunshades, a parcel tray and a front & rear dashcam. 

The Tata Sierra is offered with three engine options: a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol producing 105 bhp and 145 Nm, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DCA; a 1.5-litre TGDi turbo-petrol developing 158 bhp and 255 Nm, available exclusively with an automatic torque converter; and a 1.5-litre Kryojet diesel churning out 116 bhp and 280 Nm, offered with either a 6-speed manual or an automatic transmission.
 

Also Read: Volkswagen Taigun Facelift Review: Still The Driver’s SUV, But Improved!

Commenting on the launch, Nitin Kohli, Brand Director, Volkswagen Passenger Cars India, said, “The Tayron Life reflects our commitment to introduce global products that resonate with Indian customers. In line with our plans, we are introducing the 3rd product action for this year, with Tayron Life that is locally assembled. With its spacious layout, premium comfort, advanced technology including Level 2 ADAS and signature German engineering. It strengthens our premium SUV portfolio while delivering a compelling proposition centred around performance, space, comfort and driving confidence."

The VW Tayron Life sees no change in dimensions - it’s still 4792 mm long and features a 2789 mm wheelbase

In terms of size, the VW Tayron Life sees no change in dimensions. It’s still 4792 mm long and features a 2789 mm wheelbase, which means you are getting better cabin space. The big change is in terms of luggage capacity, which is increased to 885 litres from 345 litres. The Tayron Life is offered in seven exterior colours: Dolphin Grey Metallic, Cipressino Green Metallic, Oyster Silver Metallic, Nightshade Blue Metallic, Ultraviolet Metallic, Oryx White Mother-of-Pearl Effect, and Grenadilla Black Metallic.

Also Read: Volkswagen Tayron R-Line Review: Sensible Flagship For India

Visually, the R-Line elements are out; what you get here are more subtle styling elements. The grille and bumper design have changed, and instead of the sporty 19-inch alloys, here you get a set of 5-spoke 18-inch wheels. You still get LED headlamps with connected LED DRLs and connected 3D LED taillights. 

Visually, the R-Line elements are out; what you get here are more subtle styling elements

Inside, the cabin features a 13-inch infotainment system compared to the 15-inch unit on the R-Line trim, along with a 10.25-inch digital cluster. You also get an 8-speaker sound system, dual wireless phone chargers, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a rear-view camera instead of the 360-view camera. 

You still get 3-zone climate control, along with power adjustable front seats with massage and ventilation functions. Other features include: rear doors with retractable sun blinds, Electronic parking brake with auto-hold function, Electric opening & closing of the tailgate, including foot-operation sensors, Driver profile selection – 6 modes: Eco, Comfort, Sport, Individual, Offroad, Snow, Rain-sensing wipers, and Two-step reclinable 2nd row seats with sliding functions.

Also Read: Honda City vs Hyundai Verna vs Volkswagen Virtus vs Skoda Slavia: Which Sedan Makes Sense In 2026?

The SUV gets the same 2.0-litre TSI petrol engine that is tuned to make 201 bhp and 320 Nm of peak torque

In terms of safety, the Tayron Life comes equipped with nine airbags, Level 2 ADAS with 14 features, disc brakes on all four wheels, ESC, hill start assist, hill descent control, TPMS, and ISOFIX mounts for the outer rear seats and front passenger seat. It also gets an auto-dimming IRVM, auto headlamp range control with dynamic cornering lights, anti-pinch power windows, and Volkswagen's XDS electronic differential lock, making it one of the better-equipped SUVs in its segment.

The SUV continues to be powered by the same 2.0-litre TSI petrol engine that is tuned to make 201 bhp and 320 Nm of peak torque, and a 7-speed DSG automatic transmission.

Also Read: New Mercedes-Benz GLB EV India Launch Confirmed

The E53 doesn't stray too far from the standard E-Class, but there are enough AMG-specific touches to give it a more purposeful look. Up front, it gets the signature AMG grille, a more aggressive bumper with larger air intakes and wider front fenders. Around the back are a subtle boot-lid spoiler, black diffuser and quad round exhaust tips. Standard models ride on 19-inch alloy wheels, while larger 20-inch and 21-inch wheels are available overseas as optional extras.

Coming to the interior, the dashboard layout is largely unchanged from the regular E-Class, though AMG has added its own touches in the form of sports seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and grey open-pore ash wood trim. The MBUX Superscreen, which adds a dedicated display for the front passenger, remains as an optional extra.

Power comes from a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six petrol engine working alongside an electric motor. Together, the system develops 593 bhp and 750 Nm, with drive sent through a 9-speed automatic transmission. Mercedes claims the E53 can go from 0-100 kmph in 3.8 seconds, while top speed is electronically limited to 280 kmph.

Also Read: Mercedes-Benz India Posts Record H1 Sales Of 9,768 Units; Q2 Retail Reaches 4,637 Units

The plug-in hybrid system uses a 21.2 kWh usable battery pack mounted beneath the boot floor. On a full charge, the E53 can cover more than 100 km (claimed) in electric-only mode under international test cycles. Charging is handled by an 11 kW AC charger, which takes around six hours for a full recharge.

Also Read: Tata Sierra EV: Variants, Features, Prices Explained

The new versions are based on the Fearless Ultra trim for the Harrier and the Accomplished Ultra trim for the Safari. Prices for the Harrier Stealth Edition range from Rs 23.43 lakh to Rs 26.01 lakh, while the Safari Stealth Edition is priced between Rs 24.09 lakh and Rs 26.76 lakh (both ex-showroom).

The talking point of any special edition is on the cosmetic front and this is no different. Both SUVs are finished in a Matte Stealth Black paint scheme, complemented by 19-inch matte black diamond-cut alloy wheels, Stealth Edition badging on the front fenders, and a Stealth mascot. Inside, Tata has carried forward the dark theme with Carbon Noir leather upholstery, Granite Black contrast stitching, and matching black trim pieces.

Also Read: Tata Sierra EV Launched In India At Rs 18.79 Lakh: 5 Variants, 63 & 75 kWh Battery Options, 500+ km Range

Since the Stealth Edition is based on the top-spec trims, it carries over the same equipment list as the standard models. This includes a digital instrument cluster, large touchscreen infotainment system, ventilated front seats, Level 2 ADAS, panoramic sunroof, premium audio system and connected car technology. The Safari continues to be offered in both six- and seven-seat configurations, with the six-seater featuring ventilated captain seats for the second row.

Mechanically, there are no changes. Both SUVs continue to be powered by Tata's 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine. Buyers can choose between a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic transmission.

This means lending the two SUVs distinct personalities, allowing buyers a choice more prominent than just badge engineering. 

Exterior

The new Duster stays true to its rugged roots while still offering a proper modern design. It has a bold grille, eyebrow-style LED DRLs and a chunky stance. The Tekton, meanwhile, draws inspiration from Nissan’s larger SUVs sold in international markets, especially the Patrol. It adopts a squarer front end with slimmer headlamps linked by a light bar and a prominent RED streak running across the face. 

Also Read: Nissan Tekton Bags 5 Stars In Bharat NCAP Crash Tests

On the side, there are newly designed alloy wheels, different bumper treatments and a distinctive C-shaped tail-lamp signature (unlike the triangular ones seen on the Duster) at the back, further separating the Nissan from its French cousin. Park them side by side, and the family resemblance is obvious, but so is the effort Nissan has made to give the Tekton its own road presence.

Interior

Step inside, and the similarities continue, yet there are a few differences. While the dashboard architecture and switchgear are largely common, the upholstery themes, trim finishes and decorative inserts differ in the two C-SUV rivals. Even the steering wheel used in the Tekton is different from the one used in the Nissan. The Tekton aims for a more premium feel with warmer colour combinations like beige and gold, along with metallic accents throughout. Meanwhile, the Duster retains a more utilitarian, adventure-ready theme with more black and green contrast. 

Also Read: Nissan Tekton: In Pictures

Features and Safety

Renault took on the C-SUV segment head-on by offering lots of features. Similarly, the Tekton benefits from the same, Both SUVs are generously equipped, which includes a large digital driver’s display, tilted infotainment screen, a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, wireless charging, a 360-degree camera and a comprehensive Level 2 ADAS. In terms of safety, apart from the Five Star BNCAP rating, you get multiple airbags, a 360-degree camera and advanced driver-assistance systems in both.

Powertrains

Under the bonnet, things remain the same for the Tekton as the Duster, with turbo-petrol engine choices paired with manual and dual-clutch automatic gearboxes. The key distinction is that the Duster is expected to gain a strong-hybrid option later this year, but this powertrain will be omitted in the Tekton, according to reports. 

The Nissan Tekton is offered with two engine options – the 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol producing 99bhp and 166Nm and is only available with a six-speed MT. The other is the 1.3-litre turbo petrol producing 160bhp and 280Nm, which can be had with a six-speed MT or a six-speed DCT. The claimed mileages for the two powertrains are 19.5kmpl for the 1.3 Turbo Manual and 18.5kmpl for the DCT, all similar to the Duster.

Also read: Nissan Gravite Prices Hiked By Up To Rs 18,000; Range Now Starts At Rs 5.73 Lakh

Conclusion

The Nissan Tekton and Renault Duster share the same underpinnings, but there are efforts put in to make the two SUVs differentiate from each other. We have seen this with the Kiger and the Magnite, where two cars being identical under the skin have different kinds of experiences. Over here, the Duster continues to be the rugged and practical SUV, while the Tekton aims at the premium appeal. The best part about the two is that the winner is the buyer, because whichever one they choose, they get a thoroughly modern midsize SUV with a well-sorted package. 

Also Read: Triumph Tracker 400 First Ride Review

The Triumph Speed 400 receives a new dual-tone colour option called the Racing Red/Pewter Grey, while the Scrambler 400 X gets a new grey and khaki green colour option called Matt Pewter Grey/Matt Khaki Green. 

Also Read: 350 cc Triumph Models Prices Hiked Yet Again

While Triumph has only revealed the new colour in the global-spec models with the 399 cc engine, it’s highly likely that the India-spec models with the new 350 cc engine will also be getting the new colours to give the models fresh appeal. 

In India, Triumph also has an India-exclusive Speed T4 model with a slightly different state of engine tune than the Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X, all with 350 cc engines.

Also Read: Triumph 350 cc vs 400 cc Comparison

The Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS has been showcased in a new Jet Black/Maui Blue colour option, while the Rocket 3 Storm GT and the Rocket 3 Storm R each gets two new colour options. The Triumph Tiger Sport 800 has been showcased in a new Sapphire Black/Graphite colour option as well.

Also Read: Yamaha XSR155 Launched At Rs. 1.50 Lakh

The 5-speed gearbox, front telescopic suspension, rear monoshock along with ABS have all been shared with the standard FZ model. The LED headlamp is shared with the FZ Rave, and the Blue Flex shares the same sculpted fuel tank with faux air vents and a compact exhaust. The single-piece seat also remains the same. 

Also Read: Yamaha FZ Rave Launched At Rs. 1.17 Lakh

The launch of the FZ Blue Flex makes Yamaha the third two-wheeler manufacturer to enter the flex-fuel space, which already has the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 FFV and Hero MotoCorp’s two flex-fuel motorcycles, the HF Deluxe and Splendor. 

The FZ Blue Flex will be available in a Metallic Black colour option and will be sold through Yamaha’s select Blue Square dealerships in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana and Tamil Nadu. 

Also read: All-New BMW iX5 Debuts With 141 kWh Battery, 800+ km Range
 

Commenting on the record sales numbers, Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India, said, “BMW Group India has delivered its highest-ever sales performance in the first half of 2026. We have delivered 9,075 cars, but beyond this impressive number, what we are really focused on is to continue our steady double-digit growth in an otherwise challenging environment. The +17% growth is a clear reflection of the deep trust our customers place in our brands. Our decisive hold on electric mobility has solidified BMW Group India as the number one choice in luxury EV segment. With a phenomenal +78% growth, every fourth car we sell today is an EV.”

Over 2,000 EVs Sold In H1 2025; Account For Over 25 Per Cent Of Sales

BMW Group India reported EV sales of 2,359 units across its BMW and Mini brands in H1 2026 -  a 78 per cent gain over 2025. EV sales also accounted for 26 per cent of all cars and SUVs sold by the Group or 1 in every 4 cars.

Also read: Fifth-Gen BMW X5 Debuts With ICE, Hybrid, EV & FCEV Powertrains
 

Long-Wheelbase Models Account For Over 50 Per Cent Of Sales

Over half the cars and SUVs sold by BMW were part of its long-wheelbase (LWB) portfolio. The share of LWB models in total sales in H1 2026 stood at 52 per cent. The company sold 4,428 long-wheelbase cars and SUVs in the first six months of the year – a 24 per cent growth over the same period last year.

Also Read: BMW M Concept Neue Klasse Revealed; Previews Electric M3

SUVs Continue To Lead The Charge

SUVs continued to be the charge for BMW Group, accounting for 65 per cent of all four-wheeler sales of the company. SUV sales stood at 5,926 units – a 35 per cent gain over last year.

Also Read: Manual-Only BMW M3 CS Revealed

14 Launches Planned Across All Brands In H2 2026

BMW has also said that it is lining up 14 more launches for the Indian market for 2026, spread across BMW, Mini and BMW Motorrad brands. These are expected to include new models, as well as updates to existing models and new variants.

Also Read: Nissan Tekton Makes Global Debut; Launched At Rs 10.49 Lakh

In the adult occupant protection test, the Tekton scored 14.49 out of 16 in the frontal offset deformable barrier test and a full 16 out of 16 in the side impact test. It also successfully cleared the side pole impact test. During the frontal crash test, protection for the driver's and front passenger's chest was rated as adequate, while most other body regions, including the head, neck and legs, received a good rating.

For child occupant protection, the SUV scored the maximum 24 points in the dynamic crash test and 12 points for child restraint system installation. It also received 9 out of 13 in the vehicle assessment category, taking its total score to 45 out of 49. The evaluation used 18-month-old and three-year-old child dummies secured in backwards-facing child seats mounted on the second-row outboard seats using Isofix anchors.

Also Read: Nissan Tekton: In Pictures

The Tekton’s standard safety suite includes six airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), hill start assist, ABS with EBD, tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), and three-point seatbelts for all occupants, while ISOFIX child seat mounts are also available on the rear seats.

The top-spec Tekna+ variant further adds a Level 2 ADAS suite with features such as adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, and more. 

The Nissan Tekton was launched in India today, with prices ranging between Rs 10.49 lakh and Rs 18.59 lakh (ex-showroom, introductory). It is offered with two turbo-petrol engine options, a 1.0 litre and a 1.3 litre. Six variants, including Visia, Visia+, Acenta, N-Connecta, Tekna and Tekna+, are on offer for the Tekton compact SUV. 

Also read: Nissan Tekton Makes Global Debut; Launched At Rs 10.49 Lakh
 

The Tekton is being offered with a pair of turbo-petrol engine options an in six variants. Here is a look at what each variant has to offer:

Nissan Tekton Visia

T160 1.0 Turbo MT: Rs 10.49 lakh

• LED headlamps with daytime running lamps
• LED tail lamps
• 17-inch steel wheels with covers
• Tilt & telescopic adjustable steering
• All Power windows with one-touch up/down
• Rear AC vents
• Driver seat height adjustment
• Engine idle stop/start
• 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster
• Arkamys Signature Sound (4 speakers)
• Front centre armrest
• 6 airbags
• Auto headlamps
• Tyre pressure monitoring
• ABS with EBD
• ESC
• Traction control
• Hill start assist
• Central locking
• ISOFIX child seat mounts
• 3-point seatbelts for all passengers
• Rear parking sensors
• Tyre repair kit

Nissan Tekton Visia+

T160 1.0 Turbo MT: Rs 11.14 lakh

In addition to Visia

• 9.0-inch touchscreen
• Wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay
• Steering-mounted audio controls
• Rear-view camera with dynamic guidelines

Also read: Nissan Tekton: In Pictures
 

Nissan Tekton Acenta

T160 1.0 Turbo MT: Rs 11.79 lakh

T280 1.3 Turbo DCT: Rs 14.99 lakh

In addition to Visia+

• 17-inch steel wheels with dual-tone covers
• Roof rails
• Cruise control (DCT only)
• Electronic parking brake with auto hold (DCT only)
• Paddle shifters (DCT only)
• Keyless entry-and-go & smartcard key
• Proximity lock/unlock
• Rear wiper, washer & defogger
• 10.1-inch touchscreen
• Wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay
• Steering-mounted audio & voice controls
• 60:40 split folding rear seat
• Rear centre armrest
• 17-inch spare wheel
• Two Type-C fast charging USB ports (Front)
• All-wheel disc brakes (DCT only)

Nissan Tekton N-Connecta

T160 1.0 Turbo MT: Rs 13.69 lakh

T280 1.3 Turbo MT: Rs 14.99 lakh

T280 1.3 Turbo DCT: Rs 16.49 lakh

In addition to Acenta

• Panoramic sunroof
• 18-inch alloy wheels (Gunmetal)
• Front/Rear fog lamps
• LED lightbar front/rear
• Dual zone climate control
• Cruise control
• Power folding wing mirrors
• Auto-dimming IRVM
• Wireless phone charging pad (DCT only)
• 10.25-inch digital instrument screen
• Cooled centre console storage
• Arkamys 3D surround sound system (6 speakers)
• Leatherette upholstery
• USB Type C rear charging ports x 2
• Puddle lamps

Also Read: Nissan Tekton SUV India Debut Highlights: Exterior, Interior, Specifications, Details

Nissan Tekton Tekna

T160 1.0 Turbo MT: Rs 15.39 lakh

T280 1.3 Turbo MT: Rs 16.39 lakh

T280 1.3 Turbo DCT: Rs 17.79 lakh

In addition to N-Connecta

• 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels
• Electronic parking brake
• Rain-sensing wipers
• Smart air purifier with AQI readout
• Powered driver seat (6-way adjustment)
• Ventilated front seats
• 48-colour ambient lighting
• Two drive modes
• Two steering modes
• All-wheel disc brakes
• Hill descent control (DCT only)
• Front & side parking sensors
• ADAS tech - 15 features including autonomous emergency braking, traffic sign recognition, blind spot warning & lane keep assist

Nissan Tekton Tekna+

T160 1.0 Turbo MT: Rs 16.49 lakh

T280 1.3 Turbo DCT: Rs 18.59 lakh

In addition to Tekna

• Powered tailgate
• Powered front passenger seat (6-way adjustable)
• 10.2-inch Digital driver display with integrated Google Maps display
• 17 ADAS features – 3D surround view monitor, Adaptive cruise control with stop & go (DCT only)
• Google Built-in with maps, voice assistant and Play Store
• Over-The-Air updates

Nissan Tekton Powertrains

Nissan is offering two turbo-petrol engine options with the Tekton. The first is the T160 1.0-litre turbo-petrol mill, which is good for 99 bhp and 166 Nm and is offered solely with a 6-speed manual. The engine option is offered across all variants. The second unit is the more powerful T280 1.3-litre turbo-petrol mill that pushes out 161 bhp and 280 Nm and is offered with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed DCT depending on the variant.

Nissan Tekton Rivals

The Tekton goes up against popular models such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Victoris & Grand Vitara and its sister model, the new Renault Duster. It also faces competition from the Honda Elevate, Skoda Kushaq and Volkswagen Taigun.

All prices, ex-showroom

Also Read: Nissan Tekton Makes Global Debut; Launched At Rs 10.49 Lakh

Let’s take a closer look at it in pictures:

The Tekton is available in six variants: Visia, Visia+, Acenta, N-Connecta, Tekna and Tekna+. Prices start at Rs 10.49 lakh and go up to Rs 18.59 lakh (ex-showroom, introductory). 

Although its proportions remain identical to the Duster, Nissan has given the Tekton a unique identity through revised styling at both ends.

The front end features L-shaped LED headlamps, a slim LED light bar running beneath the bonnet edge and a split rectangular grille finished with horizontal detailing.

Also Read: Nissan Tekton SUV India Debut Highlights: Exterior, Interior, Specifications, Details

Lower down, the chunky bumper gets generous use of black body cladding, silver skid-plate styling and squared-off air intake elements to give the SUV a more rugged appearance.

Viewed from the side, the similarities with the Duster become more evident. Squared wheel arches, muscular fenders and the greenhouse profile are all shared between the two SUVs.

At the rear, a roof spoiler sits above the upright tailgate, while the bumper carries forward the black-and-silver treatment seen at the front.

Unlike the Duster, the Tekton gets a body-coloured tailgate instead of a contrasting black panel. Nissan has also added prominent Tekton lettering across the tailgate.

The SUV measures 4,348 mm in length, 1,815 mm in width and 1,674 mm in height. It rides on a 2,657 mm wheelbase and offers 212 mm of ground clearance.

One can choose from Onyx Black, Blade Silver, Pearl White, Flare Garnet Red, Indigo Blue and Moonbow Grey, with every shade available in both monotone and dual-tone finishes.

Inside, the Tekton shares its overall dashboard layout with the Duster, complete with a fully digital instrument cluster and a large freestanding infotainment touchscreen.

Feature highlights include a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, powered driver's seat, dual-zone climate control, Google Built-in, 360-degree camera, powered tailgate and wireless phone charger.

Higher variants also pack an ADAS suite, along with six airbags, ABS, ESC and other safety features.

The Duster’s crash test rating has been carried over for the Tekton, with the latter claiming to hold a five-star Bharat NCAP crash safety rating.

Powertrain options are identical to the Duster. The 1.0-litre turbo-petrol produces 99 bhp and 166 Nm, while the 1.3-litre turbo-petrol develops 161 bhp and 280 Nm.

A 6-speed manual is offered with both engines, while the 1.3-litre turbo-petrol can also be paired with a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic.

Nissan claims fuel efficiency figures of 19.4 kmpl for the 1.0 Turbo, 17.8 kmpl for the 1.3 Turbo Manual, and 18.5 kmpl for the 1.3 Turbo DCT.

Also read: Nissan Tekton SUV India Debut LIVE Updates: Exterior, Interior, Specifications, Details
 

The full variant-wise prices are as follows:

In terms of design, the Tekton shares the same proportions as the Duster but gets its own unique styling elements. Up front, the Tekton gets its own unique fascia with L-shaped headlamps with integrated DRLs and a lightbar at the base of the bonnet. The rectangular grille is split in two by a trim strip that runs the width of the fascia, while lower down, the bumper gets notable use of black and silver plastics to give it a muscular look.

Also read: Nissan Gravite Prices Hiked By Up To Rs 18,000; Range Now Starts At Rs 5.73 Lakh
 

In profile, the similarities to the Duster are most apparent, including the squared-out wheel arches, prominent fender flares, and the shape of the glasshouse. The rear also shares similarities with the Duster, with notable changes in the shape of the taillamps and the rear bumper.

In terms of size, the Tekton measures 4,348 mm long, 1,815 mm wide and 1,674 mm tall. It sits on a  2,657 mm wheelbase and has a ground clearance of 212 mm.

Inside, the Tekton features the same basic dashboard design as its sibling, replete with a digital instrument screen and a large central touchscreen. The differences come in the form of different trim finishers and upholstery colours. Features on offer include a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, powered driver seat, dual-zone climate control, a touchscreen with Google Built-in, 360-degree cameras, powered tailgate, wireless phone charging pad and more.

Also read: Nissan Launches Twin-Cylinder CNG Retrofitment Kit For Gravite At Rs. 82,999
 

On the safety front, the top variants get ADAS tech along with features such as 6 airbags, ABS, ESC and more.

Mechanically, the Tekton is identical to the Duster, sharing the same 1.0-litre turbo-petrol and 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine options. The former develops 99 bhp and 166 Nm while the latter makes a stronger 161 bhp and 280 Nm. A 6-speed manual gearbox is standard with the larger petrol unit also getting the option for a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic. Nissan claims fuel efficiency numbers of 19.4 kmpl for the 1.0 Turbo, 17.8 kmpl for the 1.3 Turbo-manual and 18.5 kmpl for the 1.3 Turbo-DCT.

Also read: New Nissan X-Trail Hybrid Revealed
 

The Tekton marks Nissan's return to the heavily congested compact SUV segment where it will go up against its sister model, the new Renault Duster, as well as popular SUVs such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Victoris & Grand Vitara, Skoda Kusaq, Volkswagen Taigun and the Honda Elevate.

All prices, ex-showroom introductory.

Defender Vertex

Starting with the new Defender Vertex, it will be positioned alongside the Defender X, and the new variant will be offered with all three options: 90, 110, and the 130. Visually, you will have extended front and rear bumpers for a tougher look. There’s a larger grille and revised fog lights, while the glossy black rear section with a new spoiler and yellow brake callipers add contrast. 

Also Read: JLR Eyes US-Specific Defender Models In Partnership With Stellantis

The exterior gets a matte treatment that Land Rover calls Shadow Atlas Matte. However, you will have multiple colour options to customise it like - Fuji White, Santorini Black, Woolstone Green, Borasco Grey and Carpathian Grey, and Patagonia White Matte Wrap. All shades come with either a matte protective film, or for the first time, a gloss protective film. Options for the cabin include - Windsor Leather and Forged textile seats, available in either Ebony or Caraway/Ebony or Ultrafabrics seats in Light Cloud/Lunar.  

The new variant also comes with new 22-inch wheels as standard. While the standard setup is Satin Dark Grey tinted wheels with Carpathian Grey, optional 22-inch Gloss Black or 20-inch Satin Dark Grey wheels are also available. Land Rover has also introduced a new exclusive colour which can be opted with any version of the SUV. It’s called Namib Orange – inspired by the striking orange sand dunes of the coastal Namib Desert in Southern Africa.

Also Read: Land Rover Defender 130 Debuts With Mild-Hybrid Engine Line-Up

Exterior Accessory Pack

The company has also introduced an exterior accessory pack which includes – extended bumpers, rear spoiler, body-coloured spare wheel cover, and the new 22-inch wheel options. The pack is available as an optional visual upgrade to X-Dynamic SE, X-Dynamic HSE (including Hard Top) and V8, to make the SUV look more like the Vertex. 

Six-Seater Defender 110

Another big upgrade comes with the introduction of a six-seater Defender 110. With the addition of captain seats in the second row, you now get a 2+2+2 layout. The middle row seats now offer extra contouring, bolster cushions, individual armrests, manual recline function, and twin floor cup holders behind the centre console. This also makes access to the third row a tad easier. 

Also, now the 90 and 110 trims gets 3-zone automatic climate control as standard, while the Defender 130 will get a 4-zone unit.

Connected AI Voice Assistant

Land Rover has also enhanced the Defender's connected technology with a new AI-powered "Hey Land Rover" voice assistant that supports more natural, conversational interactions for navigation, travel suggestions and general queries. The optional Technology Pack is now available on more variants, bundling a head-up display, Meridian Surround Sound System, ClearSight Interior Rearview Mirror and a domestic power socket.

Updated Powertrains

Land Rover has also updated the powertrain options for the Defender line-up. There is a new P380, 3.0-litre six-cylinder mild hybrid (MHEV) petrol engine that offers 550 Nm of torque. The 2.0-litre P300 has also been replaced with a 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder motor that makes 470 Nm. Land Rover’s 5.0-litre V8 will continue to be on offer, but it will only be available in select markets; however, whether India is among them or not is yet to be confirmed. 

Land Rover has also updated the BMW-sourced 4.4-litre V8 that does duty on the Defender Octa. For MY2027, it now makes almost 533 bhp and 750 Nm of torque. The 0-100 kmph acceleration time has not changed; it’s still 4.4 seconds; however, Land Rover says – ‘the updated Defender OCTA engine features a more characterful and deeper exhaust noise to give a truer V8 sound due to changes to the exhaust manifold.’

The Defender Octa now also comes with a new Woolstone Green colour option. 

Defender Adventure Accessories

Land Rover has expanded the Defender's factory accessory range with a new Expedition Roof Light that delivers up to 9,000 lumens and extends illumination to 350 metres when used with the SUV's headlights. Also new is a lockable Tail Door Gear Carrier with 60 litres of storage and a 12 kg payload, along with additional rear spoiler options. 

The Explorer Pack now includes an expedition roof rack, deployable ladder, raised air intake and side-mounted gear carrier, while the Adventure Pack adds an integrated air compressor, portable rinse system and exterior gear carrier. The Urban Pack, meanwhile, gets bonnet decals, fixed black side steps and a dark rear scuff plate.

The government and vehicle manufacturers have repeatedly pointed to a 2021 report by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) to refute claims that E20 damages vehicles. The report is said to conclude there's no significant damage or corrosion to components, though rubber parts in fuel systems may need replacing. 

Also Read: E20 Petrol May Damage Rubber Components In Older Vehicles

But when motorists and transparency advocates filed Right to Information (RTI) requests to actually see the findings, ARAI declined, claiming the study is confidential and legally exempt from public scrutiny.

That refusal is what turns a fuel-efficiency debate into a trust problem. A government citing a study as proof of safety, while denying the public access to that same study, raises more questions than it builds confidence. In a word, it’s not transparency, it’s an instruction to take the government’s word for it. And that's precisely what a growing number of vehicle owners are no longer willing to do.

The Policy So Far

India rolled out 20 per cent ethanol blended petrol in phases before it became the standard default fuel nationwide on April 1, 2026, ahead of the earlier 2030 target. Every litre of petrol sold at every fuel station in the country since April 2026 is E20.

The government had been considering pushing blending even higher, and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has already notified fuel standards for E22, E25, E27 and E30. But the public outcry appears to have forced a pause. Officials now say any further increase in blending will only follow proper research and consultation with stakeholders. But then, no timeline, methodology, or independent body for that research has been named publicly.

Why Owners Are Angry

There are a couple of problems with regard to India’s ethanol policy when it comes to consumers. The first is that millions of older vehicles on Indian roads simply weren't built for E20, and there's no fuel choice for their owners. There’s no option to buy 100 per cent petrol, or even E10, which was the default blend before April 2026. Only vehicles sold after April 2023 are fully E20-compliant, which means someone who bought a new car or two-wheeler in early 2023, with no warning that compliance would become an issue months later, is now stuck.

That raises an obvious question few officials have answered directly - if E20-compliant vehicles had to be specifically engineered, why is the same fuel described as safe for E10-compliant vehicles too?

The second problem is running costs. Owners report real-world drops in fuel efficiency well above what the government acknowledges. Officials call the impact "marginal," in the range of 2–6 per cent. Many drivers say it's closer to 10–15 per cent.

Also Read: SIAM Assures Warranties of Non-E20 Compliant Vehicles Will Be Honoured

"My impeccably maintained Suzuki Swift has seen a drop of around 15% fuel efficiency since switching to E20. There is no cost advantage even when opting for what is mandatory E20 now. While fuel prices have increased, so have my monthly fuel expenses," said Abhishek Das.

“Why should I choose to invest much more in a new E20 compliant vehicle, when my current car is otherwise serving me well. Even if I go for an E20 vehicle, the future is uncertain regarding E25, E30 etc. So, no point in thinking about purchasing a new vehicle unless the policy becomes clearer,” adds Das.

Also Read: The E20 Fuel Insurance Trap - Will Your Policy Cover Ethanol-Related Engine Damage?

"We have an old Hyundai Grand i10 which sometimes struggles when it's not driven regularly. After refuelling and starting up after a while, the car almost starts limping. This never used to happen earlier. I guess it's because water would have separated out from the blended fuel while sitting for long," said Debidutt Acharya.

Underlying both complaints is a fair question - what does the Indian consumer gain from switching to E20? Globally, blended fuel is typically priced below pure gasoline. In India, E20 is the only base petrol on sale, with no discount attached to it.

Also Read: Govt Issues Clarification On Performance of Ethanol-Blended Petrol

What Experts Say

"It's primarily an implementation issue. If the pros and cons of ethanol-blended petrol had been laid out right at the onset, it wouldn't have snowballed into what it is right now," said Raj Kapoor, a senior automobile expert and former rally driver. "If there was some cost benefit using blended fuel, and some assurance from major auto manufacturers that nothing major is likely to break down, people would have gone along."

On the technical side, Kapoor doesn't dismiss the complaints. "The energy density of blended fuel is low, so you will end up using more fuel for the same amount of work. Deterioration of rubber and plastic components is an issue which will happen over time. Over a longer period of, say, five to seven years, there could be some damage when compared to pure gasoline." 

He adds that in nearly two years of blended-fuel use, including E10, there haven't been major failures reported yet. On pricing, Kapoor is blunt. 

"The world over, blended fuel is cheaper than regular gasoline. If the perception in India were that there's some kind of saving, and that emissions are better controlled, there would have been wider acceptance." 

There's also an unresolved infrastructure question, and one which is being raised by many observers and critics. Ethanol is hygroscopic, meaning it attracts water more readily than pure petrol. Owners like Acharya are already describing symptoms consistent with this. Whether India's storage and transport infrastructure has been adapted to handle that risk hasn't been publicly addressed.

What Real Transparency Would Look Like

None of this makes the case for reversing course on ethanol blending. The climate and import-substitution arguments for it are real. But policy legitimacy depends on the public being able to check the government's homework, and right now they can't.

Three things would change that: 

1. Publishing the ARAI findings or commissioning a fresh independent study open to public review.
2. Reinstating E10 or E5 as a choice at the pump, at least for pre-2023 vehicles, rather than mandating E20 as the only option. 
3. Pricing that actually reflects the cost savings ethanol blending is supposed to deliver, rather than leaving consumers to absorb higher fuel bills for a fuel they didn't choose.

Labelling consumer concerns as "vested interests" hasn't worked, and it isn't going to. Calling every question on government policy as being “anti-national” will make it even worse. Until the government treats scrutiny as part of the policy's legitimacy rather than a threat to it, the public outcry over E20 isn't going anywhere.

Also Read: Yamaha R2 India Launch Expected in August 2026

Powering the Aerox Electric is a 9.4 kW (12.6 bhp) electric motor, producing a peak 48 Nm of torque. The motor draws power from two removable 1.5 kWh battery packs (3 kWh total capacity), which can be charged separately at home. Yamaha claims a range of up to 117 km (IDC) on a full charge, while the scooter can reach a claimed top speed of 95.5 kmph in Power mode with the Boost function activated.

Charging the battery packs from 0-100 per cent takes 3 hours 10 minutes for a single battery, while charging both packs together requires 6 hours 20 minutes. As for ride modes, one can choose between Eco, Standard and Power riding modes, while the Boost function unlocks full power for 10 seconds at a time. A reverse mode is also offered as a part of the package.

Also Read: 2026 Yamaha Fascino Updated With New Tail Section, Priced From Rs 76,500

On the features front, the Aerox Electric comes equipped with full-LED lighting, a colour TFT instrument cluster with turn-by-turn navigation, and a smart key with an ‘Answer Back’ function that flashes the indicators and sounds a buzzer to help locate the scooter in parking lots.

Visually, the Aerox Electric remains largely identical to its petrol sibling, retaining the same maxi-scooter styling. However, Yamaha has revised the ergonomics of the electric derivative, while the underseat storage has been reduced to accommodate changes to the battery pack and bodywork. The scooter tips the scales at 139 kg (kerb) and features disc brakes at both ends along with single-channel ABS.
 

Also Read: Nissan Tekton Spied Undisguised Ahead Of July 9 Debut

Nissan Tekton: Exterior

Although the Tekton shares its underpinnings with the Renault Duster, Nissan has worked to give it a distinct identity. While body panels such as the doors, bonnet and fenders are expected to be common between the two SUVs, the front and rear styling has been extensively revised.

Up front, the Tekton gets a more upright fascia with a rectangular grille featuring horizontal slats, flanked by rectangular headlamps with L-shaped LED daytime running lamps. A slim light bar stretches across the top of the grille, while the front bumper gets chunky silver skid plate-like elements. Nissan has also embossed the Tekton lettering prominently across the leading edge of the bonnet.

The changes continue at the rear, where the SUV gets redesigned LED tail lamps with unique internals, although the full-width light bar theme remains. Unlike the Duster, the number plate housing is finished in body colour, and the rear bumper adopts a more squared-off design with black cladding and silver inserts.

Also Read: Nissan Gravite Prices Hiked By Up To Rs 18,000; Range Now Starts At Rs 5.73 Lakh

Nissan Tekton: Interior

Inside, the overall layout is expected to remain familiar, but teaser images and recent spy shots suggest Nissan has given the dashboard its own identity through revised trim pieces, upholstery and colour schemes. The feature list is also expected to closely mirror the Duster's, although the distribution of equipment across variants could differ.

Nissan Tekton: Powertrain

On the powertrain front, the Tekton is expected to borrow both engine options from the Duster. These include a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 99 bhp and 160 Nm, paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, and a 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine developing 158 bhp and 280 Nm, available with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. However, it remains unclear if Nissan will also get the strong hybrid powertrain option that will be introduced on the Duster later this year.

Nissan Tekton: Expected price and Rivals

In terms of price, the Tekton is expected to sit close to the Duster, which is currently priced between Rs 10.49 lakh and Rs 18.69 lakh (ex-showroom). Once launched, Nissan's new compact SUV will rival the Tata Sierra, Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Victoris and Grand Vitara, Honda Elevate, Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun and more. 

Also read: Mercedes-Benz India Posts Record H1 Sales Of 9,768 Units; Q2 Retail Reaches 4,637 Units
 

The GLB EV features an evolutionary design over the outgoing first-gen SUV while also growing in size. The new GLB sits on a 60 mm longer wheelbase, is up to 98 mm longer and 27 mm wider, though height is reduced by 14 mm. Despite this, Mercedes claims improvements in cabin space with headroom increasing by up to 35 mm up front, up to 68 mm in the second row and by 10 mm in the third row.

Also read: 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLB SUV Makes Global Debut; EV Offers Up To 631 km Range
 

In terms of design, the new GLB retains the boxy proportions of the outgoing model, though the styling has notable changes. Up front, the fascia draws inspiration from the new CLA with its layered design and low-set grille – enclosed in the EV – while down the sides, the front fenders and rear haunch are more prominent too. The glass house is notably changed as well, while around the rear, the new connected tail lamp set-up with integrated three-point star lighting elements may not be to everyone’s tastes.

Inside, the cabin is a typical new-gen Mercedes with up to three screens housed across the width of the dashboard. The new MBUX Superscreen features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster along with a pair of 14-inch touchscreens for the infotainment and front passenger – though it remains to be seen if this will be offered as standard in India. As with its predecessor, the SUV is available in 5-seat and 7-seat configurations, though it remains to be seen which will be offered in India.

Also read: 2026 Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S, GLS 63 Debut With New Flat-Plane Crank V8
 

Also read: 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE Facelift Debuts With Updated Looks, New Interior & More Powerful Engines
 

In international markets, the new GLB EV is offered with a range of drivetrain options pairing an 85 kWh battery pack with single- or dual-motor setups to offer up to 631 km of range depending on the spec. The entry-level 250+ spec features a single-axle drive and produces 268 bhp and 335 Nm, while the more powerful 350 4MATIC gets dual-motor all-wheel drive and produces a peak of 349 bhp and 515 Nm. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with the 4MATIC variants getting a front-axle disconnect function that decouples the front electric motor for improved efficiency.

Also read: 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Facelift Launched In India At Rs 2.20 Crore
 

In terms of charging, the 800V architecture allows for peak charging rates of up to 320 kW DC while AC charging is supported up to 22 kW.

Created by the marque's Bespoke division, the Phantom Regatta draws inspiration from the Solent, Chichester Harbour and the famous Cowes Week sailing regatta. The commission also pays tribute to Rolls-Royce co-founder Sir Henry Royce, whose former home at West Wittering is located close to the company's Goodwood headquarters.

Its exterior is finished in a two-tone combination of Regatta Blue and English White, designed to resemble a yacht's hull cutting through water. Completing the look are 22-inch fully polished disc wheels inspired by the polished hardware found on racing yachts.

On the inside, the cabin follows the same nautical theme. The front section is trimmed in Navy Blue leather, while the rear gets Grace White upholstery to mimic sails and sea spray. Turquoise RR monograms, dual-tone stitching and matching steering wheel detailing complete the bespoke interior.

One of the highlights is the hand-painted 'Watercolour' Gallery artwork stretching across the dashboard. Created using specially developed paints, the artwork recreates the movement of waves through a custom blending technique developed by Rolls-Royce's in-house artist.

The bespoke touches continue overhead with a Starlight Headliner featuring 1,307 fibre-optic lights arranged to represent the tidal currents around the Isle of Wight. The illuminated doors further add to the cabin's theatre.

The rear picnic tables have also received special attention. Crafted over approximately 120 hours, they feature Royal Walnut and Black Bolivar wood arranged to resemble the deck of a luxury yacht.

In another subtle nod to its origins, the adjustable air vents hide engraved coordinates. One points to Goodwood House, while the other marks the Home of Rolls-Royce, linking the Phantom Regatta directly to the place where it was conceived and handcrafted.

Also Read: TVS NTorq 125 Launched With New Colours From Rs. 82,500

The Apache range currently includes the RTR 160, RTR 160 4V, RTR 180, RTR 200 4V, RTR 310, RR 310 and the recently launched RTX adventure tourer, with engine capacities ranging from 160 cc to 310 cc. TVS says the motorcycles are now sold in over 90 countries.

The brand states that Apache has served as a platform for several technologies over the years. Features such as fuel injection, dual-channel ABS, ride modes, TVS SmartXonnect connectivity, traction control, keyless ride and the Built-To-Order customisation programme made their debut on various Apache models.

Also Read: TVS Overtakes Hero, Honda In June 2026 Two-Wheeler Sales

Away from the motorcycles, TVS says the Apache owners' community has also expanded with over five lakh registered riders participating in track sessions, riding events and community rides organised by the company.

Commenting on the milestone, Gaurav Gupta, President, India 2W Business, TVS Motor Company, said, “We thank the 7 million TVS Apache riders for their trust and passion over the past two decades. From racing roots to a global performance brand, this milestone reflects the dedication of the entire TVS Motor ecosystem. We will continue to push the boundaries of performance motorcycling through purposeful innovation, global expansion, and strong rider communities.”

Also Read: TVS Orbiter Review

Chetak Closing In

In second place is Bajaj Auto, with its Chetak electric scooter range close behind with sales of 43,306 scooters in June 2026, registering a YoY increase of over 80 per cent. Just like TVS and Bajaj, Ather Energy also reported strong sales numbers in June 2026. The company sold 31,230 units in June 2026, registering 95 per cent YoY growth. 

Also Read: Chetak C25 First Ride Review

Vida Registers Strong Growth

Hero MotoCorp’s electric two-wheeler vertical Vida took fourth place with sales of 21,820 units in June 2026. But the company recorded a whopping 175 per cent YoY increase in sales, up from just 7,920 units in June 2025. 

Also Read: Vida VX2 Plus First Ride Review

Also Read: River Indie Gen 3 Long Term Review

Among the other winners is Greaves Electric, with sales of 10,990 units in June 2026, River Mobility with 4,399 units, and BGauss with 3,917 units. Ola Electric sold 16,150 units in June 2026, but YoY sales declined nearly 22 per cent, down from 20,687 units in June 2025.

Also Read: Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale Unveiled: The Gated Shifter Is Back, But Not Quite As You Remember

Hennessey Venom F5-M: Powertrain

The biggest talking point is undoubtedly the transmission. Replacing the paddle-shift setup is an all-new six-speed gated manual gearbox, making the F5-M the world's most powerful manual production road car.

Power continues to come from Hennessey's 6.6-litre twin-turbocharged 'Fury' V8, but output has now climbed to a staggering 2,031 bhp and 1,959 Nm of torque. The rear-wheel-drive hypercar also benefits from updated traction control and engine management software to deliver more progressive power delivery despite its enormous performance.

The F5-M is based on the latest Venom F5 Evolution package, which also brings a revised carbon-fibre chassis, bespoke aerodynamics and an adaptive suspension system capable of altering damping based on the selected drive mode.

Hennessey Venom F5-M: Aerodynamics And Styling

The manual version isn't just about the gearbox. It also gets a number of styling elements, the most striking of which is the 55-inch dorsal fin running from the roof-mounted air scoop to the rear deck. Besides giving the car a dramatic silhouette, Hennessey says it improves aerodynamic stability at speeds beyond 321 kmph. The integrated roof scoop feeds cool air to the engine, while the bodywork itself has been redesigned specifically for the F5-M.

This particular example, owned by a customer from the UK, is finished in exposed purple carbon fibre with anodised gold accents. It also gets a 24-karat gold Hennessey badge on the nose, while the surname 'Sheikh' is displayed across the rear of the car and embroidered onto the driver and passenger knee pads as part of Hennessey's bespoke Maverick customisation programme.

Also Read: Lamborghini Urus SE Performante Revealed As Brand’s Most Powerful SUV Yet

Hennessey Venom F5-M: Cabin

Coming to the cabin, which has been completely reworked around the manual driving experience. The highlight is the short-throw gated gear lever, which, according to Hennessey, delivers a crisp, machined-metal 'clink' with every shift. While buyers can opt for an aluminium-and-carbon-fibre shifter, this example uses the billet aluminium unit.
 

Other interior bits include a yoke-style steering wheel wrapped in stitched leather, alongside a generous use of exposed carbon fibre, real metal switchgear and premium leather upholstery. A digital instrument display sits directly in the driver's line of sight, while physical buttons and rotary dials have been retained for vital vehicle functions.

Hennessey Venom F5-M: Limited-Run

Hennessey will build just 12 examples of the Venom F5-M Roadster worldwide, with prices starting at USD 2.65 million (around Rs 25.25 crore) before taxes. The first car will make its debut at Goodwood, where racing driver Alex Brundle will drive it up the famous hill climb throughout the festival.

Although the company hasn't confirmed a timeline, it has revealed that the updated chassis architecture and six-speed manual gearbox introduced on the F5-M will eventually be offered on other Venom F5 Coupe and Roadster variants. 

The company says that in addition to steady demand for the core and top-end luxury portfolio, the strong momentum created by the newly launched CLA Electric and V-Class also helped achieve these record numbers. In fact, the first batches of both models were sold out within weeks. While bookings for the next batch of V-Class will commence in July, pre-orders for the next batch of CLA Electric are expected to start around the festive season. 

Also Read: Auto Sales FY2026: Mercedes-Benz India Reports Best-Ever Fiscal Sales Of 19,363 Units

Mercedes-Benz India’s top-end segment, which includes Mercedes-Maybach, EQS SUV and the AMG range, continued its growth trajectory. The segment grew by more than 20 per cent in H1 2026, and 28 per cent of Mercedes’ total luxury car sales came from the top-end luxury segment. In fact, Mercedes says that since it began local assembly of the GLS Maybach, demand for the luxury SUV has doubled in India. Also, the AMG segment saw a 50 per cent increase in H1 2026 sales. 

Also Read: Hidden Costs Nobody Mentions Before Buying a Used Luxury Car

The core segment, which has models like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class LWB, C-Class sedans, along with the GLC and GLE SUVs, also contributed to the segment with strong customer demand. The segment had a significant contribution to Mercedes-Benz India’s overall sales with the E-Class continuing to be the brand’s best-seller. In fact, Mercedes says that the demand was higher for the range-topping E450 variant.

Also Read: 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA Electric Review: It’s Properly Good!

As for the entry-level segment, which has models like the newly launched CLA Electric and the GLA SUV, it saw a strong growth of 29 per cent in Q2 20206. This growth was propelled mainly by the CLA BEV, the first batch of which, as mentioned earlier, is already sold out. Mercedes-Benz said its BEV portfolio accounted for 14 per cent of its total retail sales in Q2 2026, reflecting growing EV adoption.

The company has also indicated a price hike across the model range from early August 2026 to offset the increase in input costs. 

PHEV Expected To Be Based On Wuling Starlight 560

Of the three, one will be a plug-in hybrid, with the likely contender being a Wuling Starlight 560-based SUV, which has been spied testing on Indian roads on multiple occasions. The Starlight 560 measures a little over 4.7m in length, sits on a 2,810 mm wheelbase, and, depending on the variant, is offered in 5- and 7-seat configurations. This makes it roughly the same size as an MG Hector, though the wheelbase is around 60 mm longer.

Also read: New MG plug-in hybrid SUV Spied testing In India Again
 

On the powertrain front, the PHEV features a 1.5-litre petrol engine under the hood paired with a 20.5kWh battery pack and electric motor developing a combined 194 bhp and 230 Nm. The PHEV system offers a claimed 100 km of range in EV mode alone.

In terms of looks, the Starlight 560 looks the part of a contemporary SUV with upright proportions and squared-out design elements. The front features sleek rectangular headlamps with twin LED DRL elements flanking a slim grille. The PHEV features a large central intake just below, with a chunky bumper down below. In profile, the squared-out wheel arches add to the SUV’s character while the large window line should aid in the airy feel within the cabin. The rear is quite staid as well, with rectangular tail lamps with the twin lighting element, shallow bumper and a recessed numberplate housing on the tailgate.

Also read: MG Starlight 560 SUV Design Patented In India
 

Inside, the cabin follows a minimalist design theme with a free-standing digital instrument cluster and a large free-standing central touchscreen.

Starlight 560 EV Could Also Be On The Cards

As for the EVs, one of the options for the Indian market is expected to be the Starlight 560 PHEV’s all-electric sibling. The electric SUV, too, has been spied testing on Indian roads in recent months, with the differentiator between PHEV and EV coming down to the intake below the grille, which has been replaced by a body coloured blanked-out panel.

Also read: MG Windsor EV Sales Cross 75,000 Units In Under 2 Years
 

Image Source

The EV gets a 56.7kWh battery pack paired with a front-mounted electric motor pushing 134 bhp and 200 Nm. IT has a claimed range of up to 500 km on a full charge.

A second EV is set to arrive in the current financial year and could either be a replacement for the ageing MG ZS EV or a new premium EV that could join the MG M9 and Cyberster at MG’s Select dealerships.

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki Victoris Review: Fitting Package, Timed Right

Variant-wise prices:

All prices ex-showroom

The reduction is limited to the ZXi (O) MT, ZXi (O) AT, ZXi+ (O) MT and ZXi+ (O) AT variants, each of which is now cheaper by Rs 39,000. Prices of all other petrol variants remain unchanged. The revised pricing means the ZXi (O) MT now costs Rs 13.69 lakh, down from Rs 14.08 lakh, while the ZXi (O) AT is priced at Rs 15.25 lakh. Similarly, the ZXi+ (O) MT is now priced at Rs 15.43 lakh, and the ZXi+ (O) AT at Rs 17.38 lakh.

The price revision does not extend to the CNG or strong hybrid versions of the Victoris. The CNG range continues to be priced between Rs 11.50 lakh and Rs 14.57 lakh, while the strong hybrid variants remain unchanged at Rs 16.38 lakh to Rs 19.99 lakh (all prices, ex-showroom).

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki Victoris: Long-Term Review - Report 1

One of the Victoris' biggest strengths has been the breadth of its powertrain lineup. Buyers can choose from naturally aspirated petrol, CNG, strong hybrid and all-wheel-drive variants, making it one of the few SUVs in its segment to offer such a wide range of drivetrain options.

The SUV is currently priced between Rs 10.50 lakh and Rs 19.99 lakh (ex-showroom) and also carries a five-star Bharat NCAP crash safety rating. It has also been one of Maruti Suzuki's strongest-performing cars, crossing the 50,000-unit sales milestone in a little over four months after going on sale.

 

Also read: Delhi EV Policy Approved: Electric Cars Under Rs 30 Lakh To Get Full Tax Exemption

Old ARAI Report Flagged E20 Concerns 
 

According to a report in the Times of India, the study found that E10 engines were durability tested to study the impact of E20 fuels and found to offer acceptable performance. The study, however, highlighted an issue observed with BS6-compliant turbocharged engines after 265 hours of durability testing.

The engine durability study was carried out by two unnamed OEMs, with the first reporting no issues with the engine after 400 hours of testing while the second reported a thermomechanical failure of the exhaust valve after a little over 800 hours of testing. The TOI report, however, cited sources saying that the component failure could have been due to other factors and that engine durability tests generally occurred over 2,000 hours.

Also read: E85 Petrol Now Available In Mumbai At Rs 91.18 Per Litre
 

Tests carried out by three two-wheeler OEMs on E10-compatible vehicles reportedly showed no adverse impact on metallic components or the vehicle itself, with emissions also falling within required limits. The ARAI report also cited a 2 to 6 per cent increase in fuel consumption in vehicles compared to E10.

car&bike reached out to SIAM for comments on the study and its findings, though the body has declined to comment on the matter.  

Also Read: What Exactly is E85 Fuel? A Complete Breakdown Of India's New Rs. 82/Litre Petrol Alternative

Auto Makers Now Back E20 Use 

E20-compliant fuel has been on and off the news as people have raised questions around the use of the fuel in non-compliant vehicles. This has also been joined by reports of carmakers and insurance companies initially saying that the use of the fuel on non-compliant vehicles would void warranty and insurance cover before backtracking on the statements. In recent weeks, the government and multiple OEMs have come forward to back the use of E20 fuels in older vehicles, issuing statements stating that the fuel could be safely used in E10 vehicles without adverse effects. 

Speaking on use of E20 in E10-compatible vehicles, Maruti Suzuki India Corporate Affairs Senior Executive Officer, Rahul Bharti in a recent press conference said, “We have sufficient factors of safety that ensure there is no problem in terms of wear and tear, corrosion, or damage to the life of the car or the parts that come in contact with the E20 fuel if E20 is used on cars that were produced and sold in India before 2023. As a manufacturer, we have tested E10 cars, which were prevalent before 2023, on E20 fuel for all parameters, and we have not found anything of concern.”

In a separate statement, Toyota India Country Head and Executive Vice President (Corporate Affairs and Governance), Vikram Gulati, said, “E20 is the standard fuel that will be available, and it is compatible with old vehicles and new vehicles. All vehicles sold after 1st of April 2023 are fully materially compliant with E20. And people need to be reassured that in 2021, before we went into E20, there was a very detailed scientific study done by the leading automobile testing agency in the country, which is ARAI (Automotive Research Association of India). It is clearly established that the possible damage to cars and two wheelers which are old is not there. It's very insignificant.”

2021 NITI Aayog Report Bats for E10 Petrol in Ethanol Roadmap

A 2021 Niti Aayog report has also been cited in recent news reports in which SIAM called for the availability of E10 petrol alongside E20 to cater to the lakhs of pre-2023 vehicles still plying on Indian roads. In the report, Niti Aayog had cited that the discontinuation of E10 petrol and solely offering higher blends of ethanol in petrol could make a large number of vehicles unusable in the coming years while also highlighting challenges in making older vehicles compatible with higher ethanol blends. 

E20 petrol has also been the subject of judicial proceedings over the past year, including a PIL filed in the Supreme Court that was subsequently dismissed and the more recent court proceedings between Bharat Petroleum and an Ethanol supplier, where the Attorney General reportedly called the E20 roll out an experiment by the Government.  The Press Information Bureau (PIB) later categorically denied that 20 per cent ethanol blended petrol, or E20 programme is an “ongoing experiment.” The PIB said that media reports misquoted submissions made by the Attorney General to the Supreme Court. 

Also Read: Triumph Tracker 400 First Ride Review

Triumph Speed T4 Gets the Highest Price Hike

The most affordable Speed T4 model now costs Rs. 2.09 lakh, while the Scrambler 400 XC is now priced at Rs. 2.99 lakh. The Speed T4 has seen the highest price increase, with a price increase of Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 2.09 lakh. This makes the T4 even more expensive than when it used to be powered by the bigger 399 cc engine earlier this year. 

The Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X have both become more expensive by Rs. 6,000, with the Speed 400 now priced at Rs. 2.40 lakh (Ex-showroom).  The Scrambler 400 XC and Thruxton 400 have got price hikes of Rs. 5,000. Even the Tracker 400 now gets a price hike of around Rs. 3,000 and is now priced at Rs. 2.49 lakh (Ex-showroom). The Scrambler 400 XC is the most expensive model at just under Rs. 3 lakh (Ex-showroom).

New Prices of Triumph 400 Range

Also read: 2027 Bentley Flying Spur Debuts With Continental GT-Like Face, 671 bhp V8 PHEV Option
 

Dubbed a ‘Luxury Urban SUV’ by Bentley Motors CEO Frank-Steffen Walliser, the new Bentley EV is set to be underpinned by VW’s new Premium Platform Electric architecture used in the new Cayenne Electric and the Audi A6 E-Tron. The luxury carmaker has previously confirmed that the new EV will measure under 5 metres in length – meaning it could sit below the full-fat Bentayga in the pecking order, and will pack in ‘industry-leading technology’, including rapid charging at a rate of 160 km in 7 minutes.

Also read: New Bentley Continental GT S Debuts As Sportier Alternative To Standard CGT
 

So far, Bentley has only provided glimpses of the Torcal’s design – one showcasing the covered SUV in profile and the second image showcasing part of the SUV’s undisguised rear end. From what we can tell, the Torcal will get slim horizontal bar-type light guides front and rear with a unique crystal-like patterning inside. The rear windshield is gently reclined, and a roof mounted spoiler too is visible.

I profile, there look to be some stylistic similarities to the new Cayenne EV, particularly in the long flattish roof and the bulge over the rear wheels. Images of test cars on European roads suggest that the Torcal will feature a headlamp design reminiscent of the new Continental and Flying Spur, while the Bentley grille is expected to be enclosed and likely to feature an illuminated surround.

Also read: Bentley Supersports Is The Most Insane Flying B Ever
 

Spy shots of the cabin, meanwhile, have revealed elements such as a portrait-style curved central touchscreen – similar to the Cayenne – and wiper and indicator controls similar to what Audi is offering on its new-gen models such as the new Q7.

Also read: Bentley Confirms First EV To Debut In Late 2026; Teases Limited-Run Continental GT SuperSport
 

Powertrain details remain under wraps, though we expect it to also use the battery packs offered in the Cayenne Electric – a 113 kWh unit - with power likely to be sourced from a dual-motor set-up. Still, final outputs remain up in the air.

Expect Bentley to reveal more details of its first-ever EV in the coming months ahead of its global debut.

Also Read: Ducati Desmo450 MX Review

The competition-only bike is based on the Desmo450 MX motocross bike has been specifically designed for supermoto racing, featuring dedicated brakes, suspension, engine components and specific bodywork elements. It features a 449.6 cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine from the Desmo450 MX, and in that version it puts out 62.6 bhp and 53.5 Nm.

Also Read: Ducati Multistrada V4 Review

The styling is typical supermoto, with a minimalistic design and the prototype has already been used in racing, piloted by five-time Supermoto World Champion Marc Reiner Schmidt. Ducati has confirmed that the 450 SM has already secured victories during its first competitive racing outings. 

Also Read: Ducati Desmo450 EDS Unveiled

Without doubt, the Desmo450 SM will be a niche product and will be be kitted out with top-spec components, including manually-adjustable Showa suspension, and specially developed braking hardware, as well as sporting the signature supermoto design language. However, being a competition-only model, it will be an extremely niche proposition, and perhaps not even make it to the India market. 

Also read: MG Majestor Launched In India At Rs 40.99 Lakh
 

Commenting on the occasion, Anurag Mehrotra, Managing Director, JSW MG Motor India, said, “The Windsor is a winning proposition delivering strong value and resonating with the preferences of Indian car buyers. With its customers spanning across metros and emerging markets, the MG Windsor has meaningfully contributed to accelerating India’s EV adoption, transforming the way India moves.”

Since its launch, the Windsor EV has gone on to become one of the best-selling EVs in the Indian market. The EV is available in a choice of three variants and two battery pack options. Lower variants are offered with a 38 kWh battery offering a range of up to 331 km, while buyers wanting more range can opt for the Pro trims, which offer a larger 449 km range and some additional features such as a powered tailgate and ADAS tech on the top model.

Also Read: MG Windsor EV Commute Variant Launched At Rs 13.49 Lakh: Check Out Features, Images

Prices for the Windsor EV start from Rs 14.70 lakh and go up to Rs 19.00 lakh (ex-showroom) for outright purchase. Buyers also get the option to purchase the vehicle under the Battery-as-a-service model that reduces the starting price to Rs 9.99 lakh with battery rental costing an additional Rs 3.99 per km (Rs 4.50 per km for the larger battery).

Also read: Auto Sales June 2026: Maruti Retains Lead, Tata, Mahindra Post Strong Growth; Hyundai Hit By Production Loss
 

Commenting on the sales performance, FADA President C S Vigneshwar said: “June’26 has been a landmark month for Indian Auto Retail — the best June ever recorded, with Two-Wheelers, Three-Wheelers,  Commercial Vehicles, Passenger Vehicles and overall registrations each posting their highest-ever June figures.  The industry retailed 25,57,234 units, a robust 21.83% YoY growth and a 1.03% rise over May, with PV at +28.63%  and Tractors at +25.31% leading, followed by 2W at +21.22%, CV at +16.88% and 3W at +16.20%, while Wheeled Construction Equipment declined 40.94% on a high base. Tractors recorded their second-best June ever.”

Passenger Vehicle Sales Grow Over 28 Per Cent; Alternative Fuel Vehicle Sales Share Crosses 40 Per Cent

Passenger Vehicles reported the strongest growth in June 2026 at 28.63 per cent, rising from 2,19,412 units in June 2025 to 4,10,853 units in 2026 – the best-ever sales for June. FADA reported a sharper sales growth in rural markets for passenger vehicles at 35.09 per cent as against 24.67 per cent year-on-year in urban areas, though it did note that month-on-month sales in rural markets had slipped a minor 0.11 per cent linked to a ‘monsoon-linked rural pause’.

Also Read: Car Launches In July 2026: PHEV, Hybrid SUV And More

A major milestone this month was that the combined sales share of CNG, hybrids, and EVs crossed 40 per cent of total sales for the first time in the Indian market. CNG was the dominant contributor to the sales, with hybrid second and EVs a close third.

Commenting on PV sales, Vigneshwar added, “Passenger Vehicle retails were the standout at 4,10,853 units, up 28.63% YoY and 2.05% MoM — the best June ever. On a YoY basis, the Bharat-led character remains intact, with Rural PV at +35.09% versus Urban at +24.67%; sequentially, however, Rural PV slipped 0.11% MoM against Urban’s +3.54%, mirroring the monsoon-linked rural pause. The defining milestone of the month: PV alternative-fuel share — CNG, Hybrid and EV combined — crossed the 40% mark for the first time, at 40.35% (CNG 24.33%, Hybrid 8.27%, EV 7.75%), with PV EV retails of 31,823 units, an all-time high.”

Two-Wheeler Sales Grow 21.22 Per Cent; EVs Account For Over 10 Per Cent Of Sales

Also read: TVS Overtakes Hero, Honda In June 2026 Two-Wheeler Sales
 

In the two-wheeler segment, FADA reported total sales of 18,28,458 units in June 2026 – up from 15,08,378 units a year ago. While this marked an over 20 per cent gain year-on-year and was the best-ever figure for the month – sales compared to May 2026 were down by 0.89 per cent owing to a decline in demand in rural markets – down 4.55 per cent month-on-month.

The dealer body also noted that sales share for EVs in the two-wheeler segment had crossed into double digits for the first time ever. EVs accounted for 10.6 per cent of all two-wheelers sold.

Commercial Vehicles & Three-Wheelers Grow Over 15 Per Cent; Tractors Up 25 Per Cent

Rounding out segments, Commercial Vehicles and Three-Wheelers also reported their best-ever sales for the month with 90,972 units and 1,20,889 units sold, respectively. CV sales were up 16.88 per cent year-on-year and 8.53 per cent over May 2026, while 3W sales grew 16.20 per cent year-on-year and 8.40 per cent over May 2026.

Tractor sales, meanwhile, were up by 25.31 per cent year-on-year at 1,00,818 units – the second highest figure for the segment in June.

Also Read: Oben Rorr Evo Launched At Rs. 1 Lakh

The company is now ramping up deliveries of the electric motorcycles to customers with its annual production capacity of 1 lakh electric motorcycles. Oben Electric currently has over 150 showroom and dedicated Oben Care service centres across more than 90 cities in 18 states across India. 

Oben Rorr Evo First Look/Walkaround Video:

Oben Rorr Evo Key Specifications & Features

Priced at Rs. 1.25 lakh (Ex-showroom), the Rorr Evo is powered by a 9 kW motor and 3.4 kWh LFP battery. The motorcycle has a claimed top speed of 110 kmph, a claimed range of 180 km and 0-40 kmph acceleration time in just 3 seconds. With fast charging, the Rorr Evo has a claimed 0-80 per cent charging time of just 90 minutes and a 8-year battery warranty. Other features include a 5-inch TFT display, OTA updates, turn-by-turn navigation, geo-fencing, remote immobilisation and fall detection with emergency SOS. 

Also Read: Oben Rorr EZ Sigma Launched At Rs. 1.27 Lakh

“Building demand is one milestone but consistently delivering on that demand is what builds enduring customer trust. The commencement of Rorr Evo deliveries marks an important milestone for us as strong customer demand now translates into real motorcycles on the road, and we are deeply grateful to the customers who placed their faith in us,” said Madhumita Agrawal, Founder & CEO, Oben Electric.

Oben Electric was founded in August 2020 and operates a 3.5-acre manufacturing facility in Bengaluru with an annual production capacity of 1 lakh units.  The company says all critical EV components, including LFP batteries, motors, VCUs, chargers and proprietary software are designed, developed and manufactured in-house. 

New-Gen Toyota Hilux: Exterior

The new Hilux looks considerably different and sharper than its predecessors. Up front, it gets a layered fascia with slim LED headlamps connected by a black trim piece carrying the Toyota lettering. The grille now sits lower down and adopts a rectangular mesh pattern, flanked by triangular air vents on either side. The bumper itself is quite busy, with chunky black cladding, a large central intake, fog lamps and a prominent skid-plate element.

Also Read: 2026 Toyota Innova Crysta Launched At Rs 19.72 Lakh

The tougher look continues in profile, courtesy of the more squared-off wheel arches, while the rear gets vertically stacked LED tail lamps and an embossed Toyota script across the tailgate.

New-Gen Toyota Hilux: Interior and Features

Coming to the interior, where the changes are even more significant. The dashboard design mirrors Toyota's newer SUVs, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a freestanding 12.3-inch touchscreen taking centre stage. Thankfully, physical controls for the climate system and off-road functions have been retained, rather than being buried within the infotainment menus.

Also Read: Toyota Achieves New Milestone Of 3 Lakh Strong Hybrid Vehicle Sales In India

Toyota has also loaded the new Hilux with a wider set of safety and ADAS features. Globally, the pickup gets Blind Spot Monitoring, Proactive Driving Assist, Low-Speed Acceleration Suppression and an Emergency Driving Stop System, all of which are expected to make their way to the India-spec model as well.

New-Gen Toyota Hilux: Powertrain

Under the hood, the familiar mechanical package is likely to continue. The India-bound Hilux is expected to retain the 2.8-litre diesel engine, including the 48V mild-hybrid setup already seen on the Fortuner. Furthermore, Toyota claims a payload capacity of up to one tonne and a towing capacity of 3,500 kg for the ninth-gen Hilux.

The current, eighth-generation model arrived here in March 2022 and has managed to carve out a niche for itself. Expect the new Hilux to carry a premium over its predecessor, which is currently priced between Rs 28.52 lakh and Rs 36 lakh (ex-showroom).

Toyota Hilux BEV

Toyota also took the wraps off the first-ever electric Hilux, alongside the new-generation model globally back in November last year. The EV uses a 59.2 kWh battery pack and dual electric motors, but an India launch appears unlikely, at least in the near term.

Also Read: TVS NTorq 125 Launched With New Colours From Rs. 82,500

The numbers mark a strong month for TVS, which also posted the highest year-on-year growth among the three manufacturers at 47 per cent, compared to Honda's 23 per cent increase. Hero, meanwhile, saw dispatches dip slightly from the 5,53,963 units it reported in June 2025.

In the domestic market, Honda continued to hold the top spot with 4,68,956 units, up 21 per cent year-on-year. Hero remained close behind with 5,02,890 units, although its domestic dispatches were lower than the 5,25,136 units recorded a year ago. TVS sold 4,11,014 two-wheelers in India during June, registering a 46 per cent increase over last year.

TVS also maintained a sizeable advantage in overseas markets. The company exported 1,54,403 two-wheelers in June, up 48 per cent from last year. Honda exported 59,325 units, while Hero's overseas dispatches stood at 38,269 units.

Breaking up further, TVS sold 2,67,096 motorcycles and 2,47,950 scooters in June, with both segments posting double-digit growth. Hero continued to derive the bulk of its volumes from motorcycles, dispatching 4,78,701 units, while scooter sales stood at 62,458 units. Honda, meanwhile, does not provide a segment-wise monthly breakup between motorcycles and scooters, although its commuter Activa range continues to account for a substantial share of domestic volumes.

Also Read: TVS iQube Electric Scooter Crosses 10 Lakh Units Production Milestone

On the EV side of things, TVS sold 48,537 electric two-wheelers, more than three times the 14,400 units it recorded a year earlier. Hero's electric vehicle arm Vida reported 21,812 Vahan registrations during the month.

Also Read: 1035 bhp Ferrari Luce Is Brand’s First-Ever Electric Car

The result is something entirely different from a conventional manual gearbox. Ferrari says the idea was to recreate the physical interaction and engagement of classic front-engined V12 grand tourers. Production will be limited to 1,499 units worldwide.

Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale: Gearbox

The biggest talking point here is the transmission itself. Ferrari has done away with steering-mounted paddle shifters and brought back a proper gear lever, an open-gate shift pattern and a clutch pedal. However, there is no mechanical linkage between the lever and the gearbox.

Instead, the Manuale By-Wire system uses electronic controls and sensors to translate the driver's inputs into gear changes through the existing dual-clutch transmission. Ferrari says considerable effort went into replicating the weight, resistance and click of a traditional manual, right down to the sounds made by the mechanism while shifting gears.

Also Read: Ferrari 849 Testarossa Launched In India

The clutch pedal follows a similar philosophy. It's a clutch-by-wire setup, but one designed to mimic the feel and load characteristics of a conventional manual car. Drivers can still execute heel-and-toe downshifts, while poorly timed shifts can result in jerks or even stall the engine. For those moments when convenience takes priority, it can also be driven in a fully automatic mode.

Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale: Engine

Ferrari hasn't touched the powertrain, and that's probably for the best. Under the bonnet sits the same naturally aspirated 6.5-litre V12, producing 819 bhp and revving all the way to 9,500 rpm. Peak torque stands at 678 Nm, with power sent to the rear wheels through the reworked eight-speed transmission.

Performance remains every bit as outrageous as the standard car, with Ferrari quoting a 0-100 kmph time of around 3.0 seconds and a top speed in excess of 340 kmph.

Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale: Interior and Design

The cabin has been redesigned around the new transmission setup. The centre console now features a reinterpretation of Ferrari's famous open-gate shifter, complete with a six-speed shift pattern and a round aluminium gear knob that displays the selected driving mode. Ferrari says the entire setup was designed to make the interaction between driver and machine feel as natural and involving as possible.

Elsewhere, the Manuale gets a number of exclusive touches, including special forged wheels, engraved aluminium door sills and unique Tailor Made specifications. The launch car wears a new Rosso Rubino shade, one of 25 historic Ferrari colours available on the model.

Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale: Limited To 1,499 Units

The 12Cilindri Manuale will be limited to 1,499 examples globally, with the number itself paying tribute to the displacement of Ferrari's first V12 engine from 1947.

The special edition is aimed squarely at enthusiasts who still crave the involvement of a manual transmission. In many ways, it's a bridge between old-school grand touring and contemporary tech, and perhaps the closest thing to a traditional manual Ferrari that buyers will get in today's date. 

Also Read: Yamaha R2 Name Trademarked In India

The R15 has a strong following in India and is still considered as one of the best beginner-friendly sports bikes offering a high-revving engine and sharp dynamics. For reference, the R15 is powered by a 155 cc, liquid-cooled, four-valve engine which puts out 18.1 bhp at 10,000 rpm and 14.2 Nm of peak torque at 7,500 rpm. 

Also Read: Yamaha R15 V4 Review

The 200 cc engine of the R2 could be a bored out version of the same unit, offering more performance, yet retaining fuel efficiency and refinement. More details will be known on August 27, 2026 when full specifications and price of the Yamaha R2 will be announced. 

Also Read: Yamaha XSR155 New Colour Introduced

Yamaha’s 155 cc models are likely to continue to be offered on sale, including the R15, as well as the MT-15 and the XSR155. Essentially, the new R2 will sit just above the R15 offering a worthy competitor to the likes of the KTM RC 200 as well as the Hero Karizma XMR 210.