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The Mahindra XUV300, introduced in early 2019, is set to undergo a substantial update in the coming months, with extensive testing already underway. Despite facing stiff competition from models like the Tata Nexon, Kia Sonet, Hyundai Venue, and Maruti Suzuki Brezza, the 2024 Mahindra XUV300 facelift aims to maintain its competitive edge. While the official launch date is yet to be announced, reports suggest it will likely hit the market in the early months of 2024. The upcoming XUV300 facelift will introduce several noteworthy features, making it the first in its segment to offer a panoramic sunroof. Another significant highlight will be the addition of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems ( ADAS ) technology. The subcompact SUV will feature a larger freestanding infotainment system with an enhanced user interface, continuing to support both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. The dashboard design will undergo revisions to enhance overall aesthetics. In a bid to provide inc

Ather Energy has released a teaser video of its upcoming electric scooter, the Ather 450 Apex. It is claimed to be Ather’s fastest electric scooter yet. The company is celebrating its 10th anniversary with the 450 Apex. Apex Energy described the latest version of the 450 Series as “the pinnacle of the 450 platform”. It is expected to be launched sometime early next year. Technical details of the Ather 450 Apex are yet to be revealed; however, it is likely to feature a more powerful electric motor and a bigger battery pack. The scooter’s motor is expected to offer improved acceleration and a higher top speed. On our 10th year at @atherenergy , announcing the pinnacle of the 450 platform – Ather 450 Apex! We invited some of our community members recently to take our fastest scooter yet for a spin. Can't wait to get it on the roads next year! pic.twitter.com/dj6fgHeHKI — Tarun Mehta (@tarunsmehta) November 29, 2023 The current Ather 450X electric scooter comes fitted with a

Royal Enfield’s Motoverse, previously known as Rider Mania, recently concluded in Goa, featuring a grand unveiling of the all-new Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 and the pricing revelation of the Himalayan 450. The event also showcased a range of custom Royal Enfield motorcycles. Notably, the Shotgun 650 made its debut in a limited custom version , with delivery to the fortunate owners scheduled to commence from January 2024. A mere 25 units of these hand-painted customized bikes will be available globally, priced at Rs 4.25 lakh (ex-showroom). Royal Enfield plans to launch the mass-market model of the Shotgun 650 in early 2024. The standard version will be factory-painted, positioned at a lower cost compared to its limited-run customized counterpart. In the Indian market, the Shotgun 650 will not face direct competition, although it shares the 300cc segment with two bobbers – the Jawa 42 bobber and Jawa Perak. In terms of pricing, the Shotgun 650 is expected to be positioned slightly premi

French automaker, Renault has officially revealed the new generation Dacia Duster mid-sized SUV for the global markets. The European-spec model will be sold under the Dacia nameplate, while the India-spec model will continue to be sold under the Renault nameplate. Based on an all-new platform, the new Renault Duster 2024 comes with all-new styling and feature-loaded interior along with new hybrid powertrains. 10 Things About New Renault Duster 2024 1. Launch Timeline The 3rd generation Renault Duster will go on sale in the European markets in the first half of 2024. The India-spec model will receive significant changes before introducing in our market. It is expected to be launched in our market sometime in 2025. 2. New Platform The new generation Dacia Duster is based on the Renault-Nissan Alliance’s CMF-B modular platform, which underpins the Sandero and the Jogger in the international markets. This platform is versatile enough to accommodate different body styles and engine o

Lotus has launched its own electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions including an ultra-fast 450 kW DC charger, power cabinet and a modular unit for charging up to four vehicles at once. Charging anxiety remains one of the main barriers to electric vehicle adoption, with nearly 80% of the public citing the lack of charging infrastructure as a primary reason for not buying an EV in a survey conducted by the Energy Policy Institute. With Lotus’ charging capabilities, the company is providing consumers with reliability and confidence wherever they are driving. Lotus is using liquid-cooled technologies throughout its suite of commercial charging solutions to make it easier and quicker for EV drivers to charge their vehicles. Lotus’ fast-charging solutions have already been deployed in China and are expected to roll out across the majority of European countries and Middle East in Q2 2024. Further market availability will be announced in due course. As charging infrastructure improves o

SUVs continue to dominate the Indian automotive market, renowned for their elevated ground clearance, superior visibility, and versatile capabilities. Despite an array of options available across various segments, the anticipation is high for four new SUVs set to make their debut on Indian roads in early 2024. Let’s delve into some key details of these upcoming SUVs. Kia Sonet Facelift The eagerly awaited Kia Sonet facelift is ready to debut in December, with its market launch scheduled for early 2024. The refreshed model has already made a flash appearance, showcasing minor cosmetic enhancements such as tweaked front and rear bumpers, a new front grille, headlamps with LED DRLs, a revised faux skid plate, new alloy wheels, and distinct taillamps. The cabin receives major upgrades, including a new instrument cluster, upholstery, and a slightly modified dashboard layout. The standout feature is the introduction of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) technology, while the power

The Duster has been Renault Group’s (Renault + Dacia) most successful model in Europe and in other global markets. In fact, Dacia has produced over 2.2 million units of the Duster SUV since 2010. In order to capitalize on the popularity, Renault has now introduced the new generation Duster SUV in Europe. The 2024 Renault Duster comes with all-new styling and more refined interior along with all-new mechanics. 2024 Renault Duster Styling The new generation Dacia Duster is built on Renault-Nissan Alliance’s CMF-B modular platform that also underpins the Sandero and the Jogger. Nissan will also have its own version of the new Duster for global markets including India. In profile, the new Duster appears familiar with some modern styling elements. The new gen model is slightly longer than the previous model; however, it looks significantly bigger and sportier. The front fascia is inspired from the Bigster concept and looks good in pictures. It comes with a Y-shaped LED daytime running l

We reported earlier that Maruti Suzuki is planning to launch 3 new cars in the country in 2024. The company will introduce the new generation Swift hatchback and the Dzire sedan in the first half of 2024. In fact, the new gen Suzuki Swift has recently been unveiled at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo. Adding to it, Maruti Suzuki will present the production version of the EVX electric SUV in the second half of 2024. A new media report claims that Maruti Suzuki could launch the new 7-seater version of the Grand Vitara mid-sized SUV in 2024. However, MSIL is yet to make an official announcement on the same. The 7-seater Maruti Grand Vitara will be positioned against the likes of the Hyundai Alcazar, MG Hector Plus, Mahindra XUV700, and the Tata Safari. The 7-seater Maruti Grand Vitara will ride on a longer wheelbase to accommodate the third row of seats. It could be offered with two seating layouts – 6 and 7-seater with former having captain seats in the second-row. MSIL is also l

The new Kia Seltos facelift has made a significant impact with its upgraded aesthetics, enhanced features, and a revamped 160bhp, 1.5L turbo petrol engine. The model lineup, now available in seven trims, was initially introduced with prices ranging from Rs 10.90 lakh to Rs 19.80 lakh (ex-showroom). Surprisingly, a recent development has seen a targeted price reduction, specifically applicable to select variants. The 1.5 petrol MT HTX, 1.5 turbo-petrol iMT HTX+, 1.5 turbo-petrol DCT GTX+(S), 1.5-litre turbo-petrol DCT GTX+, 1.5-litre diesel iMT HTX+, and the 1.5-litre diesel AT GTX+(S) variants have all witnessed a price reduction of Rs 2,000, enhancing their appeal in the competitive market. Notably, other variants have maintained their original launch price tags. However, this price adjustment comes with a trade-off, as variants from HTX and above (excluding the X-Line) no longer feature the one-touch up/down functions for all power windows. This omission, in part, justifies the re

Mercedes-Benz has inaugurated its first own German charging hub in Mannheim. By the end of the decade, Mercedes-Benz plans to establish more than 2,000 of its own charging stations worldwide with over 10,000 fast-charging points. The new Mercedes-Benz Charging Hub in the Rhine-Main-Neckar region is located at one of Germany’s most important transport corridors and is part of the company’s global commitment to expanding the charging infrastructure. Mercedes-Benz is thus pioneering new benchmarks for fast, safe and green charging of electric vehicles. In Mannheim, electric drivers can now charge their cars and vans at six charging points, each with an output of 300 kW. Each charger has only one port to ensure that the maximum energy reaches the charging vehicle. Thanks to intelligent charging management, each vehicle can be charged with the maximum energy available. With that, certain electric vehicle models are already able to charge from 10% to 80% in less than 20 minutes. In addi

The much-awaited new Renault Duster 2024 model is scheduled to make global debut on November 29, 2023. Ahead of the official debut, clear images of the third-generation Duster SUV have been leaked online. For people not in the know, the global model will be first introduced under Renault’s sister brand – Dacia. The new generation Dacia Duster is reportedly to be launched in Europe sometime early next year; however, the India-spec model will be introduced in 2025. Nissan will also have its own version of the SUV, which is also expected to arrive in 2025. It will rival the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, VW Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, MG Astor and the Honda Elevate. New Renault Duster Design The leaked images confirm that the third generation Duster shares its styling cues from the Bigster concept, which will also enter the production-line by 2025. The Bigster concept previews a 7-seater SUV, which will be positioned as an affordable alt

The Triumph Thruxton 400 will be the third motorcycle developed by Bajaj Auto for India and global markets. Bajaj-Triumph partnership had launched the Speed 400 roadster in the Indian market on July 5, 2023. The company has recently introduced the Scrambler 400 X , which is designed and developed on the Speed 400 platform. It was speculated that the partnership will introduce multiple new motorcycles on the same platform. Now, a new model on the same platform has been spied on foreign soil. In fact, the spotted motorcycle looks similar to the larger Triumph Thruxton 1200. The new motorcycle could be called the Triumph Thruxton 400. The motorcycle’s several design elements including the wheels, bar-end mirrors, round LED headlight and fuel tank is shared with the Speed 400. Adding to it, the motorcycle features the same upswept exhaust muffler and 17-inch front wheel. The biggest change is the presence of a cafe racer front cowl. The Triumph Thruxton 400 comes with a more aggressiv

Kia Motors is set to make waves in the Indian automotive market with the imminent launch of the revamped Kia Sonet, marking a significant milestone for the South Korean automaker. Eagerly anticipated, the model, extensively spied during its rigorous testing phase, is ready to hit the market in December 2023, although the official launch date remains undisclosed. In the fiercely competitive subcompact SUV segment, the upgraded Kia Sonet will once again assert its presence against formidable rivals such as the Tata Nexon, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Hyundai Venue, and Mahindra XUV300 . Delving into the salient features of the refreshed model, let’s explore the key details unveiled thus far. Within the cabin, minimal modifications are expected, although the 2023 Kia Sonet is set to receive a revamped instrument cluster reminiscent of the Carnes and Venue models. Enhancements extend to new upholstery, switchgear, and a subtly revised dashboard layout, collectively contributing to an enhanced

Hyundai Motor India marked a significant milestone this year with the successful performance of its second electric offering, the Ioniq 5. Within the span of a year, the electric crossover has notched up over 1,000 unit sales in the country. The initial 500 units were swiftly snapped up by July, with the remaining 500 units finding homes over the subsequent five months. Positioned as a premium offering, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 comes with a price tag of Rs 45.95 lakh (ex-showroom). Arriving as a Completely Built-Up (CBU) unit, the vehicle is then assembled at Hyundai’s state-of-the-art facility. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 boasts a powertrain setup featuring a 72.6kWh battery pack and an electric motor generating 217bhp and 350Nm of torque. The electric crossover, adopting a Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) configuration, boasts an ARAI-certified range of an impressive 631km on a single charge. It supports rapid 800V charging, enabling a swift charge from 10 percent to 80 percent in just 18 minutes. Insid

The first generation Suzuki WagonR tall-boy hatchback was launched in 1993. The hatchback has been receiving an overwhelming response from buyers, as it is currently in sixth generation. The company is reportedly working on the next-gen Suzuki WagonR hatchback, which is likely to be introduced in early 2025. The next-gen Suzuki WagonR hatchback is reportedly to come with sliding doors on both sides for the rear seats. The Japanese-spec model will continue to be offered with a 0.66L 3-cylinder engine with a mild hybrid tech. This powertrain will be significantly improved and will surely offer higher fuel efficiency. Suzuki is also likely to introduce the strong hybrid version of the next-gen WagonR hatchback. Similar to Japan, Maruti Suzuki will introduce the next-gen WagonR hatchback in our market in 2025. However, the India-spec model is not likely to receive sliding rear doors. MSIL could also introduce the sliding doors equipped version of the hatchback for fleet operators. The I

MAN Truck & Bus has received the “Truck Innovation Award 2024” from the International Truck of the Year jury. The commercial vehicle manufacturer was honoured for its research and development projects in the field of autonomous driving – ANITA and ATLAS-L4. In his laudatory speech, jury chairman Gianenrico Griffini, representing 25 international truck trade journalists, emphasised “the advanced characteristics of both projects, the contribution to hub-to-hub and intermodal transport automation, and the fruitful project cooperation between MAN Truck & Bus, logistics providers, component suppliers, research institutions, and public infrastructure operators” as essential for the Truck Innovation Award 2024 to be presented to the MAN projects ANITA and ATLAS-L4 for autonomous driving. Autonomous trucks are particularly useful for transport on motorways between logistics centres (hub-to-hub): they increase safety by helping to avoid rear-end collisions caused by fatigue, are alwa

In the realm of family-oriented vehicles, the 7-seater segment has perennially been favored for its blend of practicality, abundant space for both occupants and cargo, and versatile capabilities. The year 2024 promises the arrival of four noteworthy additions to this category. Let’s delve into the upcoming 7-seater family cars slated to grace the roads in 2024. Upcoming 7-Seater Family Cars In 2024 Tata Safari Petrol Following the recent launch of the updated Safari , Tata Motors is set to introduce a new variant in 2024, featuring a new 1.5L, 4-cylinder TGDi turbo petrol engine. Generating an impressive 170bhp and 280Nm, the SUV will offer both manual and automatic gearbox options. Boasting aluminum components, a variable oil pump, dual cam phasing, and an integrated exhaust manifold within the cylinder head, the new petrol engine enhances performance and fuel efficiency, further augmenting the Safari’s appeal. Updated Hyundai Alcazar The 2024 Hyundai Alcazar facelift draws de

The third generation of the Panamera is presented in a unique form. Alongside this completely redeveloped model, Porsche is unveiling a specially created one-off car in Shanghai. The Panamera Turbo Sonderwunsch shows the attention to detail with which Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur implements the Sonderwunsch programme. This highly exclusive, unique car visualises how a totally personal dream sports car could look for a Sonderwunsch customer. Individuality is a particular form of modern luxury. Which is why the new Panamera is available ex works with a broad selection of colours, upholstery, decors and accentuating details. For those with even more individual and highly exclusive expectations for their personal dream car, Porsche offers its customers the Sonderwunsch programme. This includes consultation, planning and expert execution of custom colour and material wishes and even the building of customised one-offs. Porsche will be presenting the all-but-unlimited options of the Sonder

Earlier this year, the Renault-Nissan alliance unveiled an ambitious strategy aimed at developing, manufacturing, selling, and exporting six innovative models in India. This comprehensive plan encompasses four SUVs, including the highly anticipated new-generation Renault Duster in both 5 and 7-seater configurations, as well as Nissan’s SUVs based on the Duster platform. Additionally, the lineup includes two A-segment electric vehicles. Based on the acclaimed Dacia Bigster SUV, the upcoming Renault Duster is ready to make its world debut in Portugal on November 29, 2023, with its Indian launch scheduled for 2025. The third-generation Duster, in its 5-seater iteration, is set to face stiff competition from popular mid-size SUVs such as the Hyundai Creta, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Kia Seltos, Honda Elevate, Skoda Kushaq, Toyota Hyryder, and Volkswagen Taigun. On the other hand, the 7-seater variant will contend with formidable rivals like the MG Hector Plus, Tata Safari, and Hyundai

Royal Enfield has launched the all-new Himalayan 450 dual-purpose motorcycle at its annual Rider Mania event in Goa. Interestingly, the company has also showcased the exciting new RE Shotgun 650 at the event. It is basically the production version of the RE SG650 concept that debuted at the 2021 EICMA motor show. The motorcycle shown in the pictures is a factory-custom and only 25 units will be produced; however, it clearly previews the styling of the production-spec model. The Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 is the brand’s 4th 650cc twin-cylinder motorcycle, joining the likes of Interceptor 650, Continent GT 650 and the Super Meteor 650. Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 Specs The new Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 is based on the same platform that underpins the Super Meteor 650, Interceptor 650 and the Continental GT 650. It is powered by the same 647.95cc air/oil-cooled parallel-twin engine that produces a peak power of 47.65PS and a peak torque of 52Nm. It comes fitted with Showa-sourced USD (U

Simple Energy, the Bangalore-based electric two-wheeler startup, has allegedly urged customers to cancel their pre-bookings for the Simple One electric scooter . According to a fresh report, a customer received a phone call advising him to cancel his booking. To verify the legitimacy of this communication, the customer reached out to the company’s customer care helpline via email and received a response stating, “Our team is attempting to reach all our customers via telephone. Meanwhile, our intention is to create awareness among our customers about the recent fraudulent happenings involving Simpleenergy Private Limited.” In an effort to address concerns and uphold transparency, Simple Energy, in response to media inquiries, sent an email assuring customers of their commitment to transparency and satisfaction. The email outlined that a refund process would be initiated for all individuals who had pre-booked the e-scooter. Despite this setback, Simple Energy promises a silver lining fo

Following the success of the Nexon subcompact SUV , the Tata Punch has emerged as the second-best-selling SUV from the indigenous automaker in India. Competing in the micro SUV segment against the Maruti Suzuki Fronx and Hyundai Exter, Tata Motors has elevated its game by equipping all variants of the Punch with a digital instrument cluster. Recent sightings of the lower variants revealed a 4-inch digital screen, presenting information such as the trip meter, odometer, speed time, warning lights, and more. Interestingly, the Punch’s top variant, known as Creative, retains a distinctive 7.0-inch part-digital instrument cluster. The incorporation of the digital instrument cluster as a standard feature is expected to have a marginal impact on pricing, although details regarding a potential price adjustment remain pending. This enhancement positions the Tata Punch to pose a formidable challenge to the Hyundai Exter, which already boasts a 4.2-inch MID digital instrument cluster as stand