motornews

The Volkswagen Group has appointed Andreas Mindt as its new Head of Group Design, effective 1 March 2026. He will take on this expanded role alongside his current position as Head of Design for the Volkswagen passenger cars brand. Mindt succeeds Michael Mauer, who is stepping down as part of a broader generational shift within the company. A long-time Volkswagen Group insider, Mindt joined the company in 1996 after graduating from Pforzheim University School of Design. Over the years, he has played a key role in shaping some of the group’s most recognizable models, including early work on the Volkswagen Tiguan and the Volkswagen Golf Mk7. Between 2014 and 2021, Mindt led the evolution of Audi’s exterior design language, contributing to models such as the A1, e-tron GT, Q3, and Q8. He later moved to Bentley in 2021, where he defined a new design direction for the marque before returning to Volkswagen in 2023. ALSO READ: Volkswagen Group Hits 5 Million Electric Drive Units Miles...

Toyota has introduced the all-new C-HR battery-electric vehicle (BEV) in the US, with prices starting at $37,000 and deliveries set to begin in March 2026. It becomes the third BEV in Toyota’s US lineup, based on the e-TNGA platform. The C-HR EV packs a dual-motor setup producing 338 hp, enabling a claimed 0–60 mph time of 4.9 seconds. Power comes from a 74.7kWh battery, offering an EPA-estimated range of up to 287 miles (SE variant) and 273 miles (XSE variant). The SUV supports DC fast charging via a North American Charging System (NACS) port, allowing a 10–80% charge in around 30 minutes under ideal conditions. Inside, the C-HR offers 25.3 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 59.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. It will be available in two trims—SE and XSE—both equipped with a 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system, dual wireless chargers, and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0. ALSO READ: 2027 Toyota Highlander Goes Electric, Built in the USA The XSE trim adds features li...

Kia India has announced that the Seltos has surpassed 6 lakh cumulative sales in India since its debut in 2019. The milestone underlines the SUV’s consistent demand and strong positioning in the highly competitive mid-size SUV segment. From launch, the Seltos stood out with its bold design, multiple powertrain options including petrol and diesel engines, and availability of automatic transmissions across variants. It also introduced a feature-rich cabin with large infotainment screens, connected car tech, and premium interiors—raising the bar in its segment. Safety and technology have been key to its success. Over time, Kia has updated the Seltos with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), improved connectivity, and a more comprehensive safety package. Notably, top variants account for nearly 29% of total sales, indicating a clear shift towards feature-loaded trims, while entry and mid variants continue to attract value-focused buyers. ALSO READ: Kia Sonet Crosses 5 Lakh S...

Volvo Trucks North America has commenced production of its all-new VNR regional haul truck at the New River Valley plant in Virginia. First unveiled in March 2025, the updated VNR is built on a platform that is 90% new and delivers up to 7.5% better fuel efficiency compared to its predecessor. Designed for urban and regional operations, the new VNR focuses heavily on manoeuvrability and driver visibility. It features a tighter turning radius, a sloped hood, and a larger panoramic windshield to improve forward vision—key for city and delivery environments. Safety has also taken a major leap. Volvo claims the VNR is its safest regional truck yet in North America, introducing industry-first integrated side curtain airbags as part of its enhanced safety suite. ALSO READ: Volvo Trucks Crosses 10,000 Gas Truck Sales Globally The first batch of trucks will be delivered to Clayton, a US-based homebuilding company, marking the start of customer deployments. Production takes place at ...

Jawa Yezdi Motorcycles has introduced a fresh Ivory colour option for the Jawa 42, adding a softer, more contemporary twist to its neo-classic offering. Priced at ₹1,84,950 (ex-showroom, New Delhi), the new shade taps into the global trend of muted, pastel finishes while retaining the bike’s signature retro appeal. The Ivory edition stands out with subtle yet distinctive styling updates. The number ‘42’ graphics, vintage-style ‘forty-two’ lettering, and refreshed side panel design give the motorcycle a clean yet characterful look. The pastel finish is complemented by contrast elements on the headlight nacelle and body panels, enhancing its understated road presence. Drawing inspiration from classic racing machines of the 1960s and 1970s, the Jawa 42 Ivory also features chequered flag graphics on its tear-drop fuel tank. The design pays homage to the golden era of motorsport, blending vintage aesthetics with modern detailing. ALSO READ: Yezdi Motorcycles Go Online on Amazon and ...

BMW has introduced the all-new X3 30 xDrive M Sport Pro in India, expanding its premium SUV lineup with a more performance-focused petrol variant. Locally produced at the Chennai plant, bookings are now open across dealerships nationwide. The new variant joins the existing xDrive20 petrol and xDrive20d diesel models, offering buyers a wider range of options within the X3 portfolio. It is priced at ₹74.5 lakh (ex-showroom). In terms of design, the latest X3 adopts a bold and monolithic stance, highlighted by a large illuminated kidney grille, sculpted surfaces, and an upright front profile. Adaptive LED headlights with high-beam assist and cornering function enhance visibility, while the M Aerodynamic package, Shadowline elements, and 20-inch M alloy wheels add a sporty edge. Red-finished M Sport brakes further underline its performance intent. Dimensionally, the SUV measures 4,755 mm in length with a 2,865 mm wheelbase, making it one of the largest in its segment. Under the hood,...