motornews

The heavily updated Hyundai Creta, that made its global debut at the GIIAS 2021 motor show, is reported to make its way to India in February 2024. Its mass production is likely to start at the carmaker’s Chennai-based plant by mid January 2024. The SUV will come with improved styling and upmarket interior along with the ADAS tech. Under the hood, the 2024 Hyundai Creta facelift is likely to feature a 1.5L turbo petrol engine that recently introduced on the new-generation Verna sedan. The motor returns a claimed power of 160bhp and 253Nm of torque. The existing 1.5L petrol and diesel engines will also be on offer. Design and styling updates could also be inspired by the new Verna. The facelifted Creta will feature a wider grille with parametric pattern, H-style headlamps with split setup and H-style DRLs. The SUV will also receive newly-designed, sharper taillamps and revised boot lid. The previous spy images confirm that the new 2024 Hyundai Creta facelift will come with ADAS (Advanc...

Maruti Suzuki introduced its first strong hybrid car in September 2022 – the Grand Vitara. Currently, the midsize SUV model lineup is available within the price range of Rs 10.70 lakh – Rs 19.95 lakh (ex-showroom). It comes with the 103bhp, 1.5L K15C petrol mild hybrid and 1.5L Atkinson cycle petrol (with a 79bhp, electric motor) powertrain options. The carmaker’s Toyota-sourced strong hybrid setup delivers a claimed power of 115bhp, paired to an e-CVT gearbox. Its mileage figure stands at 27.97kmpl. Speaking to an online media publication, Rahul Bharti, Executive Officer (Corporate Affairs) at Maruti Suzuki India, said that the Maruti Grand Vitara strong hybrid version received “a very positive response”. The company is planning to bring in more strong hybrid models in near future. The Indo-Japanese carmaker plans to expand Rs 8,000 crore in the current fiscal year for the construction of the Sonipat facility, annual maintenance of existing infrastructure and development of new model...

Toyota GAZOO Racing (TGR) has achieved a significant milestone with the production of 100 units of its GR Supra GT4 customer motorsports vehicle. The model, which was launched in Europe in March 2020 and later expanded to North America and Asia, has attracted a global following of racing enthusiasts looking for an exciting, efficient, and accessible way to participate in motorsports. The GR Supra GT4 is a race-modified version of Toyota's Supra sports car, designed to accelerate the development of ever-better cars through feedback and challenges from motorsports. With 625 entries in 317 races worldwide, the vehicle has showcased its potential with 79 class victories, 20 overall wins, and 207 podium finishes in GT4 championships in various countries, including Japan's Super Taikyu Series. TGR engineers have worked closely with racing teams and drivers worldwide to obtain valuable feedback, leading to continuous improvements in the car and its components. To celebrate the prod...

The next 3 months will witness several exciting new product launches from car manufacturers like Maruti Suzuki, Tata, Honda, Volkswagen and Kia. The lineup will include all-new models, facelifts, new variants and special editions. Here’re some key details of the upcoming new cars. Tata Altroz CNG – May Bookings for the Altroz CNG have already been commenced at an initial sum of Rs 21,000. Prices of the model will be announced next month. The hatchback model lineup will get four CNG variants – XE, XM+, XZ and XZ+, packed with a 1.2L, 3-cylinder petrol engine and a CNG kit. It has new dual-cylinder setup under the boot floor with each tank capacity of 30-litres. In CNG mode, it delivers a peak power of 77bhp and 97Nm of torque. The Tata Altroz CNG has an ‘iCNG’ badge on the tailgate. More details here… Maruti Suzuki Jimny Maruti Jimny 5-door, the upcoming lifestyle, off-road SUV from the Indo-Japanese automaker, will come in Zeta and Alpha trims. Under the hood, the model features ...

The latest news from the world of automotive is that Maruti Suzuki has trademarked the name ‘Engage’ in the country. The carmaker applied for the trademark in March 2023, and its status says “formalities chk pass”. The Maruti Suzuki Engage nameplate could be used for the upcoming premium MPV or the 7-seater SUV. While the new Maruti MPV will essentially be the rebadged version of the Toyota Innova Hycross, the new 7-seater SUV will be based on the Grand Vitara. Maruti Suzuki’s new premium MPV will go on sale by July 2023. The Maruti Engage (if used for the MPV) will be the new flagship model from the Indo-Japanese carmaker in the country. Design and styling of the new Maruti MPV will be slightly different from the Toyota Innova Hycross. The model will feature the brand’s signature grille (possibly similar to the Grand Vitara) along with the newly-designed headlamps, taillamps and front bumper. Similar to the Innova Hycross, the new Maruti Engage will be based on the monocoque TNGA-C ...

Skoda - VW has embarked on a groundbreaking student car project in India, giving select students from the Group Academy's Dual Vocational Training in Mechatronics program the opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind car. The talented mechatronics students rose to the challenge and transformed a Skoda Rapid into a stunning cabriolet, showcasing their practical skills and theoretical knowledge in the automotive industry. The project was no easy feat, but the students were determined to complete it on time and with immaculate attention to detail. The end result is a car that exudes sportiness and elegance, with several eye-catching customizations. One of the most impressive features is the retractable Skoda badge on the bonnet, which elevates elegantly from the hood and retracts at the touch of a button. The car also boasts sleek LED lighting on the front bonnet and an illuminated ‘Skoda’ inscription on the boot lid, giving it a distinct appearance. Inside the cabin, the students upgr...

With the summer season underway, a spontaneous getaway to the nearby mountains can be a pretty good idea for those looking for a break from mundane city life. While the hills and mountains offer breathtaking views and clean air, driving through them can be tricky for some. Here are 5 useful tips for driving in the hills and mountains to help you minimise the risk of a mishap. 5 Useful Tips for Safe Driving in Hills and Mountains 1. Get your car inspected/serviced Before starting your trip through the mountainous terrain, get your car inspected, and, if needed, serviced. Make sure that the brakes, HVAC, windshield wipers, battery, etc are in their optimum state. Furthermore, remember to check if all the tires, including the spare wheel, are inflated as per the manufacturer-recommended standards. Driving through the mountains puts extra stress on all the components of your vehicle, which means getting your car inspected before the commencement of the trip is imperative. Also Read -...

The Citroen C3 Aircross SUV has finally made its world debut in India today. It will be the fourth offering from the French automaker and here it will be put up against the cars like Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Toyota Hyryder. Its market launch will happen in the second half of 2023. Interestingly, the new Citroen SUV will be offered with 5 and 7-seats configuration options. Design Details Design and styling of the new Citroen SUV is heavily inspired by the C3 hatchback. Upfront, it features a chrome grille with piano black inserts and headlamp clusters with split setup and Y-shaped DRLs. The alloy wheels have X-shaped design (reserved for higher trims), but design after the C-pillar is different from its hatch sibling. Read – Citroen C3 Turbo Petrol To Get More Standard Safety Features The front bumper, which has brushed aluminum finish, features dedicated air intake vent surrounded by circular fog lamp clusters. You can notice the round wheel arches ...

The fully electric flagship SUV, the 2024 Volvo EX90, has been recognized in the 2023 Green GOOD Design Awards as a winner in the transportation category. The Volvo EX90 is designed to support Volvo Cars plan to become a fully electric car company by 2030 while also meeting customer demand for a 7-passenger vehicle that can carry a family and their luggage. Amongst the first fully electric 3-row family vehicles, the Volvo EX90 balances demand for large vehicles with a responsibility to contribute to a cleaner, safer world for everyone. Revealed on November 9, 2022, the 2024 Volvo EX90 rides on a dedicated electric platform that means drivers no longer need to decide between practicality and full electrification. Offering up to 300 miles of tailpipe emission-free driving range and the ability to charge from 10-80% in about 30 minutes, the Volvo EX90 expands the population of people and families that have the option to choose an electric vehicle. The Green GOOD DESIGN awards, organiz...

The Czech automaker has released the first teasers of the new-generation Skoda Superb executive sedan and Kodiaq 7-seater SUV. The teaser images show silhouette of both models along with the sleeker LED headlamps and LED taillamps. The company has confirmed that the all-new Superb and Kodiaq will be offered with multiple powertrain options including petrol, diesel, mild and plug-in hybrid setup. The ICE-powered version of the 2024 Skoda Kodiaq and Superb will make debut towards the end of this year. The carmaker says that the new Superb will “set standards in terms of comfort and space,” while the new Kodiaq “will take safety, technology, and versatility to the next level”. Skoda also revealed that the new Superb (global-spec) will be manufactured in Bratislava, Slovakia alongside the Volkswagen Passat. The new Kodiaq, however, will continue to be assembled at the carmaker’s Kvasiny facility in the Czech Republic. Just so you know, the Skoda Superb and Octavia sedans were discontinued...

MG Motor India recently rolled out the Comet EV with unique styling and compact yet feature-packed interior. While the British carmaker said that its new small electric car is premium than the Tata Tiago EV, the model goes head-to-head against it in terms of pricing. How does the new MG Comet EV stack up against the Tata Tiago EV? Let’s find that out by pitching these EVs against each other on paper. MG Comet EV Vs Tata Tiago EV – Prices – One must note that MG announced prices of the Comet’s entry-level variant and that too is introductory. The small EV comes with a starting price tag of Rs 7.98 lakh. Price of the fully-loaded variant is yet to be announced. – Tata Tiago EV , on the other hand, is currently available within the price range of Rs 8.69 lakh – Rs 11.99 lakh. – As of now, the Comet EV (base variant) undercuts the Tiago EV. MG Comet EV Vs Tata Tiago EV – Range, Specs – The MG Comet comes with a battery pack of 17.3kWh and an electric motor. The combined power fi...

JK Tyre has unveiled a new sustainable tyre called the "UX Green" as part of its efforts towards sustainable development. This innovative tyre delivers performance similar to that of a standard radial tyre but with a significantly lower carbon footprint. The company conducted extensive testing of the UX Green tyre in indoor and outdoor settings, as well as on test tracks, to validate its performance. The development of this environmentally friendly tyre was the result of over a decade of research conducted by JK Tyre's Global Tech Centre. The company's talented team has been working on finding alternate solutions to replace conventional petroleum-based materials with sustainable options. The UX Green tyre was designed and developed using recycled, renewable, and bio-based materials such as natural rubber, bio-attributed SBR and BR, bio-based oil, recycled rubber powder, recovered carbonaceous black, recycled polyester, and steel wire. Most of these materials are I...

Citroen is all set to unveil its fourth product for the Indian market tomorrow. Called the Citroen C3 Aircross, the model will be offered with two seating configurations – 5 and 7-seats. Its 5-seater version will go up against the midsize SUVs such as Hyundai Creta, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Kia Seltos and Toyota Hyryder. The new Citroen SUV is based on the C3 hatchback, but significantly bigger and more spacious than its younger sibling. Official details of the C3 Aircross are still under the wraps. Though, the model is likely to come with a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and a new fully digital driver’s display. The feature list might also include roof-mounted AC vents for the second and third row seats, multiple drive modes, USB charging slots for the third row seat, day and night IRVM, automatic climate control and cruise control. On the safety front, the new Citroen C3 Aircross could get multiple airbags, r...

MG Motor India has launched its newest addition to the electric vehicle market, the MG Comet EV. This sleek and stylish 3-door electric hatchback boasts a price tag of only Rs 7.98 lakh (ex-showroom) - making it an affordable option for those looking to switch to an eco-friendly vehicle. The MG Comet EV is equipped with dual 10.25-inch screens for the touchscreen infotainment system, which has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, along with a digital instrument cluster. The car also sports a funky 2-spoke steering wheel with Apple-inspired controls, adding to its unique charm. Other features of the car include keyless entry, electrically adjustable ORVMs, dual airbags, rear parking sensors, and a rear-view camera. The MG Comet EV is powered by a 17.3 kWh battery pack, which offers a range of 230 km on a single charge. The electric motor generates 41 BHP and 110 Nm, providing a smooth and efficient ride. According to MG, the battery can be charged from 0-100% in 7 hours using...

Tata Motors, a key player in India's personal and commercial mobility solutions sector, has once again demonstrated its commitment to engineering excellence and innovation. In its latest move, the company has filed an unprecedented 158 patents and 79 designs in FY23. This marks the highest number of patents filed by an Indian OEM involved in manufacturing commercial vehicles and passenger cars, cementing the company's position as a leader in innovation. The patents filed encompass a wide range of products and process innovations that focus on the latest CESS (connected, electrified, sustainable, and safe) technologies, including vehicle systems such as powertrain, body and trim, suspension, and emission control, among others. Moreover, the company has received a grant of 71 patents during this fiscal year, underscoring its commitment to driving change through research and development. For years, Tata Motors has been working towards sustainability by developing cutting-edge t...

India’s smallest car is finally here. The British automaker today announced price of the MG Comet EV that targets buyers who are looking for small, urban city car. It’s essentially based on MG’s sister brand Wuling’s Air EV, which is already on sale in Indonesia. Based on SAIC’s GSEV platform, the Comet is being offered at an introductory price of Rs 7,98,00 (ex-showroom). In terms of pricing, it goes against the Tata Tiago EV and Citroen eC3 that cost between Rs 8.69 lakh – Rs 11.99 lakh and Rs 11.50 lakh – Rs 12.76 lakh respectively. The carmaker has confirmed that its bookings will start from 15th May and deliveries will begin in the same month. MG Comet EV – Range, Specs The carmaker has confirmed that the Comet EV features a 17.3kWh battery pack, sourced locally from Tata AutoComp. The battery pack is IP67-rated for water and dust resistance. MG’s new small electric car is claimed to offer a range of up to 230km (ARAI-certified) on a single charge. It also has a single, front...

Maruti Suzuki Fronx compact crossover is the first major product launch from the Indo-Japanese automaker this year. The Nexa offering comes in five trims (Sigma, Delta, Delta+, Zeta and Alpha), priced between Rs 7.47 lakh – Rs 13.14 lakh (all, ex-showroom). Now, the carmaker is gearing up to bring in its second big model – the 5-door Jimny lifestyle SUV. While its official launch date is yet to be revealed, the model is reported to go on sale in the late May 2023. Buyers will have 7 exterior colour options to choose from including Bluish Black, Nexa Blue, Granite Grey, Sizzling Red, Pearl Artic White, Sizzling Red with Bluish Black roof and Kinetic Yellow with Bluish Black roof. While we have seen its dual-tone Kinetic Yellow with Bluish Black roof model multiple times, recently it was spotted in Pearl Arctic White and Sizzling Red with Blush Black roof paint schemes at the dealerships. The 5-door lifestyle SUV from Maruti Suzuki uses a 1.5L K15B petrol engine that makes a top powe...

The updated 2023 Mahindra Bolero Maxx Pik-Up range has been launched at a starting price of Rs 7.85 lakh. The model lineup is being offered in 12 variants, spread across two trims – City and HD (Heavy Duty). Prices of the City variants start from Rs 7.85 lakh and go up to Rs 8.34 lakh. There is one City CNG variant that costs Rs 8.25 lakh. The HD models are available within the price range of Rs 9.26 lakh – Rs 10.33 lakh. All aforementioned prices are ex-showroom. Buyers can book the vehicle by paying an initial amount of Rs 24,999. All variants of the 2023 Mahindra Bolero Maxx Pik-Up powered by a 2.5L diesel engine that offers two states of tunes – 71PS with 200Nm and 81PS with 220Nm. Transmission duties are done by a 5-speed gearbox. The updated range comes with multiple payload capacities starting from 1.3 tonnes to 2 tonnes and cargo bed length up to 3050mm (first-in-the-segment). 2023 Mahindra Bolero Maxx Pik-Up Prices Variant Ex-showroom City 1.3 LX CBC Rs 7.85 lakh ...

The German carmaker is working on an all-new 7-seater SUV that’s reported to be named – Volkswagen Tayron. It will be global model, based on the MQB-A2 platform featuring transverse, front-wheel drive layout. The same architecture underpins the Skoda Kodiaq. The new Volkswagen 7-seater SUV will essentially be a spiritual successor of the VW Tiguan AllSpace. Though, it will carry different design language. For the global markets, the Tayron SUV will be produced in Germany and it will also be exported overseas. The model is reported to enter into production in 2024. The new Volkswagen Tayron 7-seater SUV is reported to make its way to India in early 2025. Here, it will be brought as a CKD (Completely Knocked Down) unit and assembled locally. The new Volkswagen 7-seater SUV will be offered in limited numbers. For people not in the know, the carmaker already retails the Tayron SUV with 5-seats configuration in the Chinese market. The China-spec version measures around 4.6 metres in length...

Hyundai Motor America has announced an expanded strategic partnership with One Tree Planted, a nonprofit organization that focuses on global reforestation. Together, Hyundai and One Tree Planted will plant 200,000 additional trees across North America, resulting in a total of 350,000 trees over the multi-year partnership. The partnership with One Tree Planted, initially announced in 2022, supports Hyundai Motor Company’s commitment to sustainability, combatting climate change and making a more sustainable future. The expansion across North America bolsters the company’s worldwide eco-initiatives and underscores its dedication to advancing the global vision of progress for humanity. As part of the partnership, Hyundai donated two IONIQ 6 electric vehicles, winner of the prestigious World Car of the Year, World Electric Vehicle and World Car Design of the Year awards, to the One Tree Planted fleet, which currently includes two IONIQ 5 electric SUVs. The IONIQ 6 vehicles will be used a...

Digital Key Plus is now also available for smartphones with Android operating systems. Customers with compatible devices from Samsung or Google can use it to unlock and lock their BMW and start the engine without even getting their phone out of their pocket. Digital Key Plus has been available on Apple devices since 2021. The vehicle reacts automatically when approached or receded in the same way as a classic vehicle key with comfort access functionality. The orchestrated light play of the front and rear lights in conjunction with the light carpet also functions as with the physical key, depending on the vehicle equipment. You can now set up Digital Key Plus on current Samsung Galaxy S23+ / Ultra and Google Pixel 7 Pro smartphone models, and a number of older models with suitable hardware. A smartphone with Digital Key Plus completely replaces the vehicle key with extended functionality made possible using ultra-wideband technology (UWB). This is a digital radio technology for close...

Maruti Suzuki's latest release, the Fronx, has hit the market with a bang. Sold through NEXA outlets, this crossover is available in five variants, with prices starting at Rs 7.46 lakh (ex-showroom). Maruti Fronx boasts a stunning design inspired by the Grand Vitara, with LED daytime running lights flanking a large grille on the front fascia. The bumper features triple-pod LED headlights within triangular pods, while black plastic cladding adds a rugged edge to the square-ish fenders. The rear of the vehicle is equally impressive, with slim LED tail lights, a light bar, and a silver skid plate. Inside, the Fronx has a dual-tone interior, complete with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Other impressive features include a wireless charger, cruise control, a 360-degree camera, a heads-up display, and over 40 connected car features. The Maruti Fronx offers two engine options. The first is a 1.2-litre K-Series Dual Jet motor...

Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL) has announced prices of its much-awaited Fronx compact crossover in the country. The model lineup comes in 5 trims – Sigma, Delta, Delta+, Zeta and Alpha, and two petrol engine options – 1.0L turbo and 1.2L naturally aspirated. While the former makes a top power of 98.6bhp with 147.6Nm of torque, the latter is good enough for 88.5bhp and 113Nm. Buyers have three gearbox options – a 5-speed manual, a 6-speed automatic and a 5-speed AMT. The carmaker claims that the Maruti Front offers best-in-class fuel efficiency of up to 22.89kmpl with 1.2L Dualjet-AMT gearbox combination. Its 1.2L petrol with manual version returns a mileage of 21.79kmpl. The 1.0L Boosterjet variants promises 21.50kmpl with manual and 20.01kmpl with automatic gearbox. Maruti Fronx Prices Variant Ex-showroom 1.2L Sigma MT Rs 7.46 lakh 1.2L Delta MT Rs 8.32 lakh 1.2L Delta AMT Rs 8.87 lakh 1.2L Delta+ MT Rs 8.72 lakh 1.2L Delta+ AMT Rs 9.27 lakh 1.0L De...

With the increasing demand of safer vehicles, car manufacturers started offering more standard and advanced safety features on the product lineup. In order to enhance the car safety quotient, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), Government of India that announced that the mandatory 6 airbags rule for passenger cars will be enforced in October, 2023. As of now, all cars come with the standard dual front airbags. Buyers have options to choose the higher-end variants with 6 airbags’ protection. Here’re some key details of the top cars with 6 airbags, which are currently on sale in India. All mentioned models in the list cost under Rs 15 lakh. Affordable Cars With 6 Airbags in India Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Asta The Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Asta variants get 6 airbags as standard safety fitment. While the Asta manual version costs Rs 7.95 lakh, the Asta AMT model is available at Rs 8.51 lakh. Features such as wireless phone charger, cruise control, push button start/stop, coole...