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When we look at the sales figures, it’s clearly evident that SUVs are dominating the Indian automobile industry with over 51 percent market share. On the other side, the sedan segment has been witnessing a constant sales decline despite having options like Hyundai Verna, Skoda Slavia, Volkswagen Virtus, Honda City, Honda Amaze, and Maruti Dzire and Ciaz. In order to revive the sedan segment, OEMs such as Maruti Suzuki, Honda, and Skoda will introduce three new models by the end of this year. Let’s take a look at key details of the upcoming new sedan models. Upcoming New Sedans in 2024 New-Gen Maruti Dzire After the Swift, the Indo-Japanese automaker will give a generational change to its top-selling Dzire compact sedan. Its official launch date is yet to be announced, though the all-new Dzire is likely to go on sale during the 2024 Diwali season. Major changes will be made to its exterior and interior that will align with the new Swift. The compact sedan will have different stylin...

Launched in the first quarter of 2022, the Skoda Slavia mid-size sedan has completed two successful years in the Indian market. After the Kushaq, it was the brand’s second offering based on Volkswagen Group’s localized MQB-A0-IN platform. The Slavia was introduced as a challenger to the Volkswagen Virtus, Honda City, Hyundai Verna, and Maruti Suzuki Ciaz. Now, the company is planning to give the Slavia its first mid-life update, confirmed by the recent sighting of its test mule. Read: Skoda To Launch Brezza, Venue, Nexon Rival SUV in India Most of the design details of the new Skoda Slavia facelift were covered by heavy camouflage, except for the C-shaped taillamps and revised rear bumper. The sedan is likely to receive a few cosmetic updates at the front end, such as a slightly tweaked grille, bumper, and headlamps. The side profile might remain largely unchanged. No changes will be made to its dimensions. The updated Slavia will continue to be one of the largest vehicles in its segm...

Cadillac has unveiled the 2025 Optiq, redefining entry-level luxury with an electrifying twist. This competitively priced luxury SUV expands Cadillac's growing EV lineup, joining the likes of the LYRIQ, ESCALADE IQ, CELESTIQ, and the upcoming VISTIQ. Building on the LYRIQ's success, the Optiq introduces several segment-leading features and promises a blend of athleticism and sophistication. The Optiq features a standard dual motor all-wheel drive, delivering a dynamic and enjoyable driving experience. Its 6-inch shorter wheelbase compared to the LYRIQ ensures a more agile ride. Thanks to its exceptional aerodynamic design, the Optiq boasts a Cadillac-estimated 300-mile range. Key elements contributing to this efficiency include the revolutionary Ultium Platform, low rolling resistance tires, and aerodynamically enhanced rear features such as a vented spoiler and diffusers. The Optiq packs an 85-kilowatt-hour battery, providing an estimated 300 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of ...

Tata Altroz Racer is all set to go on sale in the coming weeks. Prior to its official arrival, select Tata dealers have started accepting pre-bookings for the sportier version of the hatchback with an initial sum of Rs 21,000. The product details and specifications will be officially revealed at its market launch. However, a fresh media report claims that the Altroz Racer will be offered in two variants, powered by a 118bhp, 1.2L turbo petrol engine. The motor will be paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. Tata’s DCA (DCT – dual clutch transmission) gearbox might also be on offer. The latest official teaser confirms that the Tata Altroz Racer will have an adjustable single-pane electric sunroof. The orange inserts on the infotainment unit and gear lever surround will add a sporty touch to its interior. Tata Altroz Racer Teaser Compared to the regular Altroz, the hatchback’s new sportier version will come with an extra set of features such as ventilated front seats, HUD (head-up...

Figuring out how to coax the best performance possible out of your vehicle is largely a matter of balance. You need to make upgrades to unlock its full potential, but those upgrades should complement each other, and that means investing in upgrades to systems like your exhaust that do not add power directly. Often  header kits are the most effective exhaust upgrade for maximum performance. Why Upgrade Your Exhaust System? Your engine needs both air and fuel to power its reaction, and the faster you can feed it, the more power you can get out. Putting fresh air into the engine is only half the battle, though. You also need to take that spent exhaust out, otherwise, it throttles your ability to generate power by limiting airflow. OEM exhaust designs are built around a combination of costs and performance, with factors like noise limitation heavily influencing their design. Performance exhaust systems expand your vehicle's ability to get exhaust out by either simplifying the airfl...

Isuzu has officially launched Japan's first battery electric vehicle (BEV) flat-floor route bus, the ERGA EV. Making its debut at the Japan Mobility Show 2023 , the ERGA EV represents a significant step towards zero-emission public transportation. With a fully flat-floor design, this short-wheelbase urban model sets a new standard for accessibility and convenience. Driving Carbon Neutrality in Public Transit In line with Japan's "Green Growth Strategy Through Achieving Carbon Neutrality in 2050," the ERGA EV aims to reduce emissions in public transit. Isuzu has developed this BEV route bus to meet the increasing demand for environmentally friendly transportation solutions, especially in light of the upcoming 2025 Japan International Exposition (Osaka-Kansai Expo). Also Read: Isuzu Invests $30 Million to Develop Autonomous Driving Logistics Business Innovative Features Flat-Floor Design: Utilizing in-axle motors and strategically placed battery packs, the ERGA ...

The Kia Carens compact MPV has been a volume generator for the South Korean automaker ever since its launch in early 2022. Now, it’s ready to receive its first mid-life update, likely to take place early next year. Testing for the facelifted version has already commenced in the country. The new Kia Carens facelift is expected to feature slightly improved styling and a host of new features. While spy images of the camouflaged test mules have covered most of its design details, the headlamp design is likely to be similar to that of the Seltos facelift. The compact MPV might also come with newly designed alloy wheels and slightly tweaked front and rear bumpers. The rear profile could be revised with new taillamps featuring C-shaped LED elements, as seen in the Sonet facelift. The interior of the new Kia Carens facelift will also see minimal updates, including new materials for the dashboard and upholstery, and new fabrics. It will continue to be available in 6- and 7-seat configuration...

Mahindra & Mahindra is gearing up to introduce five all-new born-electric SUVs starting from early 2025. The Mahindra XUV.e8 concept-based electric SUV will be the first model to go into production, followed by the XUV.e9, BE.05, BE.07, and BE.09. Speaking to an online media publication, R. Velusamy, President of Automotive Technology and Product Development at M&M, revealed that the upcoming Mahindra EVs will focus on long range, advanced technology, and overall user experience. This strategy aims to attract buyers who prioritize the long-term benefits of EVs. Additionally, these long-range and high-tech EVs will enable Mahindra to create new market segments and boost sales. Specifications of the upcoming Mahindra EVs have yet to be revealed. However, the company has confirmed that the forthcoming electric SUVs will feature battery packs ranging up to 80kWh, offering power between 230bhp and 350bhp. The range is expected to be around or over 500km on a single charge. All the ...

GAC has launched its flagship MPV, the next-generation M8, in Kuwait, setting a new standard for luxury and innovation in the region. Designed for businesses and large families, the M8 combines comfort, style, and advanced technology. Key features of the M8 include "Awakening Eye" LED headlights with height adjustment and follow-me-home functions, "Time Gate" LED taillights, a "Lion-like" front grille, and "Diamond-cut" side waistlines, all contributing to its commanding and elegant appearance. Also Read: Electric Mercedes G-Class Going Sideways on a Frozen Lake The M8 caters to modern needs with luxurious features and cutting-edge technology. It boasts an electromagnetic suspension system (SDC) that adjusts damping forces in real-time, ensuring a smooth ride across various road conditions. Safety is paramount, featuring a 360° airbag matrix including a rear windscreen airbag—a first in the MPV class—along with a door open warning (DOW) syste...

Maruti Suzuki India Limited has opened its 5,000th service touchpoint in Gurugram, Haryana. The new facility was inaugurated by Mr. Hisashi Takeuchi, Managing Director & CEO. This expansion underscores Maruti Suzuki’s commitment to providing a seamless and enjoyable car ownership experience for its customers. The extensive service network now spans 2,500 cities across India. Since inaugurating its first service workshop in 1983, Maruti Suzuki has steadily expanded its reach. It took 14 years to reach 1,000 service touchpoints by 1997, and the pace accelerated in subsequent years, with the latest 1,000 touchpoints added in just three years. Also Read: Maruti Suzuki Achieves 3 Crore Cumulative Production Milestone Maruti Suzuki has consistently introduced innovative service formats, including mobile support for doorstep service and a dedicated quick response team for on-road assistance. The company is also embracing digitalization with features like multi-language voice BOTs, di...

In a bid to achieve carbon neutrality, Subaru Corporation, Toyota Motor Corporation, and Mazda Motor Corporation have announced a commitment to developing new, electrification-compatible engines. These next-generation engines will be designed to integrate seamlessly with electric motors, batteries, and other drive units, while also being compatible with a range of carbon-neutral fuels. The three automakers are leveraging their deep understanding of diverse customer needs to create engines that not only reflect their brand identities but also cater to unique consumer preferences. By prioritizing decarbonization, they aim to safeguard the future of their supply chains and jobs, particularly under the rigorous conditions of racing, where they test vehicles running on liquid hydrogen and synthetic fuels. The new engines will enhance vehicle design with more compact dimensions, allowing for lower hoods and improved aerodynamics. This advancement is expected to boost fuel efficiency and c...

Tata Motors is ready to foray into the coupe SUV segment with the all-new Curvv concept-based model that made its public appearance earlier this year in its production form at the Bharat Mobility Show. In the company’s product lineup, the new Tata Curvv will sit above the Nexon and compete against the upcoming Citroen Basalt . Recently, a test mule of the coupe SUV wearing heavy camouflage was spotted alongside the Tata Nexon. It certainly appears bigger than its subcompact sibling. The production-ready Curvv is likely to measure 4,308mm in length, 1,810mm in width, and 1,630mm in height with a wheelbase of 2,560mm. Compared to the Nexon, it’s nearly 313mm longer, 6mm wider, and 10mm taller, and has a 62mm longer wheelbase. The Nexon’s overall length, width, and height stand at 3,995mm, 1,804mm, and 1,620mm, respectively. The subcompact sits on a 2,498mm long wheelbase. Interestingly, the Tata Curvv will be shorter, wider, and taller than the Hyundai Creta, which measures 4,330mm in l...

7-seater family cars have long been a popular choice among Indian car buyers, as evidenced by strong sales figures. These vehicles are favored for their spacious cabins, practicality, efficiency, and high resale value. While there are already several options available in this segment, four new models are set to hit showrooms soon. Let’s take a look at the key details of these upcoming 7-seater family cars. Upcoming 7-Seater Family Cars Hyundai Alcazar Facelift The Hyundai Alcazar three-row SUV is likely to come in its revised avatar by September or October 2024. The updated model will feature slightly improved styling and interior while retaining the existing engine setup. Most of the changes will be made to its front fascia, which will feature a Creta-inspired grille along with new LED headlamps with a split pattern. Spy images have revealed a front radar, confirming the presence of the ADAS suite. Similar to the new Creta, the 2024 Hyundai Alcazar facelift will have a dual scre...

Nearly 18 years ago the first Nissan Qashqai rolled off the production line in Sunderland, UK, creating the crossover segment and sending shockwaves around the automotive world. Fast forward to 2024, and with more than four million customers in more than 100 countries, the fastest-selling car ever in the UK car industry has been upgraded once more - with a bold design and significant technology updates to enhance the customer experience. Also Read: All-New 2025 Nissan Kicks Unveiled at Barclays Center in Brooklyn The new Qashqai, electrified with Nissan's unique e-POWER system, is now in production at its home in Sunderland ahead of its arrival in the coming weeks to Nissan dealers across Europe and beyond. The latest upgrades required a fresh £30m investment in the plant, building on Nissan's total investment in the UK of £6bn. The refreshed Qashqai arrives as Nissan continues to develop its EV36Zero vision in Sunderland, a blueprint for the future of automotive manufac...

BMW has launched the 220i M Sport Shadow Edition in India, a limited edition model produced locally at the BMW Group Plant in Chennai. Available exclusively through the BMW Online shop, this new model is priced at INR 46,90,000 (ex-showroom). Striking Exterior Design The BMW 220i M Sport Shadow Edition features a distinctive Blacked-Out Kidney Grille, a stretched silhouette with four frameless doors, and prominent shoulders tapering at the C-pillar for a sporty, broad-set stance. The Adaptive LED Headlights, available with M Lights Shadow Line specification, ensure consistent illumination even when cornering. An All-Black Rear Spoiler and the BMW Floating hub cap, which keeps the logo leveled, enhance the car's visual appeal. Also Read: BMW X3 xDrive20d M Sport Shadow Edition Launched in India Luxurious Interior Inside, the 220i M Sport Shadow Edition emphasizes spaciousness with a driver-focused cockpit and premium materials. Sport Seats with electrical memory function and ...

Hybrid vehicles and electric cars have emerged as greener alternatives to ICE-powered vehicles. In the past couple of years, the Indian automobile industry has witnessed the arrival of numerous EVs along with a variety of hybrid vehicles. These figures will certainly grow in the coming years as OEMs have planned a range of EVs and hybrid cars across segments. Maruti Suzuki and Toyota Kirloskar Motor are leading the hybrid car market with models such as the Innova Hycross, Grand Vitara, Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Invicto, and Camry. India’s 5 Top-Selling Hybrid Cars – Q1, 2024 Model Sales Toyota Innova Hycross 144,442 units Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder 9,370 units Maruti Grand Vitara 2,232 units Maruti Invicto 1,210 units Camry 754 units In the first quarter of 2024 (i.e., January – March), a total of 28,482 units of hybrid cars were sold in the country. The Toyota Innova Hycross secured the top spot with sales of 14,442 units, followed by the Urban Cruise...

Deliveries of the Mahindra XUV 3XO subcompact SUV have finally commenced nationwide today. The model is said to have received 50,000 bookings last week. The SUV’s petrol variants and mid-spec AX5 and AX5 L trims are in high demand, with most buyers opting for the Nebula Blue and Everest White color schemes. The entry-level variants are reported to command a waiting period of up to six months. The XUV 3XO model lineup is being offered in 18 variants and 6 engine-gearbox options. Read: Mahindra Thar 5-Door Booking & Engine Details Similar to its predecessor, the new Mahindra XUV 3XO comes with three engine options: a 111bhp, 1.2L turbo petrol (available with the MX1, MX2 Pro, MX3, and AX5 variants), a 131bhp, 1.2L direct injection turbo petrol (available with the higher AX5L variants), and a 117bhp, 1.5L diesel engine (available with nearly all variants). Transmission choices include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque converter automatic. Mahindra XUV 3XO Review When it comes ...

Range Rover House has arrived in India, bringing a modern luxury experience to the affluent clientele of the region. Debuting in the upscale coastal town of Alibaug, Range Rover House showcases the first Range Rover and Range Rover Sport vehicles produced exclusively for the Indian market. To meet the rising demand for Range Rover's luxurious SUVs, both the elegant Range Rover and the dynamic Range Rover Sport will now be locally manufactured in Pune, India. This local production aims to reduce wait times for Indian customers, enhancing the luxury purchasing experience. Also Read: JLR Invests in Vehicle Security to Reduce Car Thefts India is the first country to locally produce these flagship models, joining the existing lineup of Range Rover Velar, Range Rover Evoque, Jaguar F-PACE, and Discovery Sport manufactured at JLR's Pune facility. While the additional production for India will supplement the global output from Solihull, UK, Solihull will continue to be the hub fo...

Jawa Yezdi Motorcycles has unveiled the stunning Jawa 42 Bobber Red Sheen at the All You Can Street Festival (AYCS) in Mumbai. Priced at Rs 2.29 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), this top-tier variant joins the acclaimed Black Mirror edition. AYCS, a festival that celebrates fashion, music, and art, provided the perfect backdrop for the launch, underscoring Jawa Yezdi's commitment to a vibrant lifestyle and motorcycling culture. The brand's affinity for artistic expression and subcultures aligns seamlessly with the event's ethos. Also Read: 2024 Jawa Perak Receives Internal Tweaks For Enhanced Performance & Comfort Building on the success of the Jawa 42 Bobber, the Red Sheen aims to reinforce Jawa Yezdi's dominance in the bobber segment. Its eye-catching red fuel tank stripe and chrome finish on the tank, coupled with diamond-cut alloy wheels and tubeless tires, make it a standout choice for younger riders seeking a bold and distinctive look. Under the hood, the Red ...

Kia India is planning to expand its product portfolio in the near future with a range of new SUVs, MPVs, and EVs. The plan outlines five models, including the Kia Syaro/Clavis micro SUV, an updated Carens, the new-generation Carnival, and the EV9 electric SUV. While there is no official word on the Kia EV3 ‘s arrival in India, it’s likely to launch here in early 2025 along with other Asian markets. First, talking about the new Kia micro SUV, the model’s production version could be named Syaro or Clavis , and it will be positioned against the Tata Punch and Hyundai Exter. Its testing has already commenced, and we have seen prototypes with camouflage revealing some of its design details. The Syaro will have a boxy stance with Kia’s signature grille, vertically positioned LED headlamps and taillamps, roof rails, thick body cladding, and large glass windows with distinct kinks. It could be packed with some advanced features such as a Bose audio system, leatherette upholstery, a 360-degr...

Mahindra & Mahindra has confirmed that the Thar 5-Door lifestyle, off-road SUV will make its world debut on 15th August 2024. While its official unveiling is a few months away, select Mahindra dealers are reported to be accepting pre-bookings for the model. The booking amount will vary by dealership, ranging between Rs 25,000 and Rs 50,000. The report further states that the Mahindra Thar 5-Door will be offered with three engine options: a 203bhp, 2.0L turbo petrol, a 175bhp, 2.2L diesel, and a 117bhp, 1.5L diesel. All these powertrains are already available on its 3-door counterpart. Read: Future Mahindra EVs To Use Volkswagen’s Batteries The production-ready version of the 5-door Thar is likely to be named ‘Mahindra Thar Armada’. Buyers will have choices among manual and automatic gearboxes, and 2WD and 4WD drivetrain systems. The SUV will underpin the ladder frame chassis and share its suspension setup with the Scorpio N – a five-link with frequency-dependent dampers, enhancin...

Hyundai Motor Company , in partnership with autonomous driving software leader Plus, has revealed the first Level 4 autonomous Class 8 hydrogen fuel cell electric truck in the U.S. at the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo, North America's premier event for advanced clean transportation technologies and fleets. The groundbreaking truck, Hyundai Motor’s XCIENT Fuel Cell, is outfitted with Plus's SuperDrive Level 4 autonomous driving technology and is showcased at the Plus ACT Expo booth (#2044). This collaboration marks the beginning of the first Level 4 self-driving tests on a Class 8 fuel cell electric truck in the U.S., aiming to demonstrate the potential for safer, more efficient, and sustainable trucking. The XCIENT Fuel Cell truck, initially launched in 2020, has a proven track record in commercial operations across eight countries, highlighting its real-world reliability and technological prowess. In the previous year's ACT Expo, Hyundai showcased the XCIENT...

Hyundai Motor Company and Kia India are ready to introduce two new sub-4 metre SUVs early next year. The Hyundai Venue will witness a generational change, while Kia will launch the all-new Syros/Clavis micro SUV. Let’s delve into some key details of these upcoming compact SUVs. Upcoming Compact SUVs All-New Hyundai Venue The Hyundai Venue subcompact SUV has been a significant volume generator for the South Korean automaker since its launch in 2021. The model lineup received a mid-life update last year, with the N Line variant joining the range soon. Codenamed Project Q2Xi, the new-generation Hyundai Venue will be the first model to roll out from Hyundai’s new Talegaon manufacturing facility. The automaker aims to produce nearly 150,000 units annually. While details of the new-gen Venue are still under wraps, it is expected to feature a significantly improved design and interior, with the engine options likely to remain unchanged. New Kia Compact SUV The upcoming Kia sub-4 metre...

The fourth-generation Kia Carnival is set to be the next major launch from the South Korean automaker in India. The MPV’s new model was showcased as the KA4 concept at the 2023 Auto Expo, followed by its global unveil in November 2023. Kia has confirmed that the all-new Carnival will arrive towards the end of this year, possibly by September or October. Like its predecessor, the new 2024 Kia Carnival will come via the CKD route, with prices expected to range from Rs 26 lakh to Rs 35 lakh (ex-showroom). Here are the key details of the upcoming new Carnival. Starting with the interior, the 2024 Kia Carnival will feature a dual screen setup with 12.3-inch units integrated into the center of the dashboard. The AC and audio controls will also be revised and placed below the central screen. The MPV will include front and rear dash cams, a rotary drive selector, a digital rearview mirror, a Head-Up Display, ambient lighting, an updated digital key, and an optional 14.6-inch rear entertainm...

Mahindra’s top-selling XUV700 SUV model lineup has received a new mid-spec variant, named AX5 Select (AX5 S). The new variant comes with both petrol and diesel engines, priced at Rs 16.89 lakh and Rs 17.49 lakh, respectively. The petrol version uses the same 2.0L turbo motor delivering 197bhp and 380Nm, while the diesel model sources power from the 2.2L unit that’s tuned to generate two different power outputs – 153bhp with 360Nm and 182bhp with 450Nm. Both manual and automatic gearboxes are available. In terms of features, the new Mahindra XUV700 AX5 Select offers dual 10.25-inch screens (one for infotainment and one for instrument functionalities), wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, AdrenoX Connect, Amazon Alexa, a skyroof, cruise control, drive modes, engine start/stop button, follow-me-home headlamps with LED DRLs, cornering lamps, full-sized wheel covers, and LED taillights. In other updates, Mahindra & Mahindra has confirmed as many as 16 new SUV launches by 2030. Th...

BMW has revealed its latest Art Car, the M Hybrid V8, designed by New York-based artist Julie Mehretu. This marks the 20th unique Art Car since Alexander Calder's original 1975 3.0 CSL. The unveiling took place at the Centre Pompidou in Paris. Inspired by past BMW Art Cars such as Frank Stella’s 1976 3.0 CSL and Jenny Holzer’s 1999 V12 LMR, Mehretu’s design adorns the M Hybrid V8 endurance race car. This new creation will be showcased alongside six iconic Art Cars at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, including Calder’s 3.0 CSL, Roy Lichtenstein’s 1977 320i Turbo, Andy Warhol’s 1979 M1, and Jeff Koons’ 2010 M3 GT2. Also Read: BMW Streamlines Model Names: "i" Dropped from Petrol Cars The M Hybrid V8 is set to compete at Le Mans on June 15, with drivers Sheldon van der Linde, Robin Frijns, and René Rast. The race car sports a special wrap designed to meet FIA regulations, achieved through precise 3D mapping to fit its body perfectly. Mehretu was chosen to create t...

Hyundai has kicked off a dynamic new marketing campaign to promote its electric vehicle (EV) lineup, aiming to entice EV-curious consumers to make the switch. The campaign showcases the IONIQ 5, IONIQ 5 N, IONIQ 6, and Kona Electric with eye-catching visuals that set it apart from previous Hyundai ads. The campaign features a wide array of ad placements, including broadcast and social media. Engaging Broadcast Spots Central to the campaign are a 60-second and two 30-second broadcast spots that debuted in mid-May. These will run throughout the summer during major events like the Olympics, MLB games, and NBA playoffs. Additionally, shorter 15- and 30-second spots will address common EV concerns, focusing on charging capabilities and driving range. Also Read: Hyundai IONIQ 5 N Crowned World's Best Electric Performance Car Creative Collaborations and Social Media Presence Hyundai’s campaign also includes collaborations with content creators, featuring a “besties”-themed series...