motornews

Mini India is set to open pre-launch bookings for the limited-run MINI Cooper S Victory Edition on 27 February 2026 at 12:30 PM. Based on the Cooper S JCW Pack, this exclusive edition will be offered in limited numbers for the Indian market. Inspired by the iconic 1965 Monte Carlo Rally-winning MINI, the Victory Edition blends motorsport heritage with modern-day performance. It pays tribute to MINI’s racing legacy while offering enthusiasts a distinctive, collector-worthy package. Visually, the Victory Edition stands out with its bold Chili Red exterior, contrasted by a signature white stripe running from the bonnet to the rear. Adding to its retro racing appeal is the “52” graphic on both sides—a nod to the legendary rally car that defined MINI’s motorsport success. ALSO READ: Mini Paul Smith Edition Adds British Style to the Cooper Line-Up Inside and under the skin, the model retains the sporty character of the JCW Pack, ensuring an engaging driving experience that aligns w...

Ducati has unveiled the second-generation Ducati DesertX at Ducati World Premiere 2026, sharpening its edge in the hardcore adventure segment. Born from the EICMA 2019 concept and launched in 2021, the DesertX quickly built a cult following among off-road enthusiasts—and this new iteration takes things up several notches. Developed using feedback from gruelling events like the Erzbergrodeo and Transanatolia Rally, the Gen 2 DesertX is engineered to go deeper into the wild while staying true to Ducati’s road-going DNA. It gets a ground-up redesign with improved suspension, a lighter and more ergonomic fuel tank, and enhanced rideability both on and off the tarmac. At its heart lies the new 890cc V2 engine producing 110 hp and 92 Nm, paired with a monocoque chassis that promises sharper handling and better control across terrains. Fully adjustable KYB suspension with 230 mm front and 220 mm rear travel, along with 21-inch front and 18-inch rear spoked wheels, underline its serious of...

Hyundai Motor Company has secured a five-star safety rating for its new Hyundai Elexio from the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP), reinforcing the brand’s focus on safety in the EV space. The rating applies to all variants built from October 2025 onwards and sold in Australia starting February 2026. Tested under the latest 2023–2025 protocols aligned with Euro NCAP standards, the Elexio delivered strong performance across adult and child occupant protection, as well as safety for vulnerable road users. Safety tech is comprehensive, with Hyundai SmartSense offered as standard. Key features include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2.0 with detection for vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists and two-wheelers, along with Lane Keeping Assist and Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist with braking support. ALSO READ: Genesis X Skorpio Concept Debuts as 1,100 hp Extreme Off-Roader The SUV is also equipped with a robust nine-airbag setup, including a front centre airbag and ...

Toyota has introduced the Toyota bZ4X Touring in Japan, positioning it as a more practical, adventure-ready version of its electric SUV. The Touring variant brings a clear focus on usability, offering 619 litres of boot space—around 1.4 times more than the standard model—making it better suited for family trips and outdoor gear. It also claims an impressive driving range of up to 734 km on a single charge. In terms of size, the SUV measures 4,830 mm in length with a 2,850 mm wheelbase, giving it a strong road presence and improved cabin practicality. Buyers can choose between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive variants, priced at approximately JP¥5.75 million and JP¥6.4 million, respectively. ALSO READ: Toyota RAV4 PHEV Debuts in Japan with 150km EV Range The AWD version packs serious punch, delivering up to 280 kW and sprinting from 0–100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds. It also features X-MODE—developed with Subaru Corporation—to enhance traction on rough terrain, adding a laye...

Volvo Cars has rolled out a series of updates for the Volvo EX30, adding a new entry-level powertrain, vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability, and refreshed interior options for the upcoming model year. The new base variant packs a 110 kW (150 PS) motor paired with a 51 kWh battery, offering a claimed range of 339 km. Buyers can also opt for a larger 69 kWh battery, extending the range up to 476 km. The addition of V2L functionality means the EX30 can now power external devices—handy for everything from e-bikes to weekend camping gear. Volvo has also updated the cabin with two new themes. The ‘Harvest’ interior features light-coloured recycled textile upholstery, while the ‘Black’ option brings a darker, more premium feel with Nordico upholstery. The EX30 Black Edition now pairs this new Black interior with multiple exterior colour choices. ALSO READ: Volvo EX60 Electric SUV Unveiled with 810 km Range and Gemini AI On the tech front, a new software update introduces a redesigned in...

Škoda Auto has outlined its next-generation 4×4 strategy, covering six model lines: Skoda Octavia, Skoda Superb, Skoda Karoq, Skoda Kodiaq, and the all-electric Skoda Elroq and Skoda Enyaq. For combustion-engine models, Škoda employs a new electronically controlled multi-plate clutch that works in tandem with driver-assistance systems. The setup continuously adjusts torque distribution between the front and rear axles based on wheel speed, steering angle and lateral acceleration—optimising grip in real time. Electric 4×4 variants adopt a dual-motor layout, with a permanent-magnet synchronous motor at the rear and an asynchronous motor at the front. With no mechanical link between axles, torque delivery is managed purely through software. The Elroq and Enyaq 4×4 are available in 210 kW (85x) and 250 kW (RS) outputs. In 2025, Škoda delivered nearly 7,000 Elroq 4×4s and over 30,000 Enyaq 4×4 units, led by strong demand in Germany, Norway and the UK. ALSO READ: Next-Gen Toyota For...