motornews

Kia India has achieved a major sales milestone with its popular subcompact SUV, the Kia Sonet, surpassing the 5 lakh unit sales mark in the Indian market. The achievement underlines the strong acceptance the Sonet has earned since its launch and reinforces Kia’s growing footprint in one of the country’s most competitive segments. Developed to meet the aspirations of modern Indian buyers, the Sonet helped redefine the subcompact SUV space with its bold design, feature-packed cabin, advanced tech and everyday usability. Manufactured locally under Kia’s ‘Make in India, for the World’ philosophy, the Sonet has appealed to a broad customer base, ranging from first-time car buyers to young urban families. The Sonet has emerged as a key volume driver for Kia India, contributing nearly 35 percent of the brand’s domestic sales. Its success is not limited to India alone, with over 1 lakh units exported to close to 70 global markets including the Middle East, Africa, Central and South America...

A new motorcycle navigation system developed by P3 digital services and Magic Lane will make its global debut at CES 2026, aiming to redefine how riders interact with navigation on two wheels. The solution is fully integrated into Sparq OS, P3’s infotainment platform built on Android Automotive OS, and has been designed specifically with motorcyclists in mind. Unlike car-focused systems adapted for bikes, this motorcycle navigation system brings predictive, context-aware environmental alerts tailored to real-world riding conditions. Riders receive timely warnings about potential hazards such as slippery road surfaces or strong crosswinds, displayed only when relevant to avoid unnecessary distraction while on the move. A key highlight is the AI-powered routing agent, which allows riders to plan journeys using natural language voice commands. Want a more engaging ride? The system also offers motorcycle-optimised scenic routing, prioritising twisty roads with dynamic geometry over dull...

Vertical Aerospace has marked a major milestone by bringing its Valo electric aircraft to the United States for the first time, kicking off a showcase tour in New York City. The appearance also signals serious intent, with plans already in motion to establish air taxi routes in and out of Manhattan in partnership with Bristow Group and Skyports Infrastructure. Designed as a next-generation electric air taxi, the Valo is targeting certification by 2028. The aircraft is engineered to cover distances of up to 100 miles at speeds reaching 150 mph, all while producing zero operating emissions. Its cabin is configured for four passengers as standard, with the flexibility to expand to a six-seat layout, making it suitable for both premium and high-demand urban travel. Vertical and its partners are evaluating multiple use cases for the Valo, focusing on reducing travel times in and around one of the world’s most congested cities. Proposed routes include rapid airport transfers between JFK a...

When it comes to choosing a new vehicle, safety is one of the most important factors for many buyers. Particularly for families or those who frequently drive long distances, the safety features and crash-test ratings of an SUV can make a significant difference. Photo by HAMZA YOUNAS on Unsplash As consumers become more aware of the risks associated with driving, understanding the safety ratings of different SUV models is essential to making an informed decision. Let's explore how safety ratings influence the selection of an SUV, focusing on crash-test results, features, and real-world safety performance. Understanding SUV Safety Ratings The safety ratings of SUVs are determined through rigorous testing by organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Consumer Reports explains that these tests assess multiple aspects of vehicle safety, including crashworthiness, rollover risk, and safety fea...

Mercedes-Benz has offered an early look at the updated S-Class ahead of its world premiere scheduled for 29 January. The preview, presented by CEO Ola Källenius in a short YouTube film, hints at one of the most extensive updates in the luxury sedan’s storied history. According to Mercedes-Benz, over 50 percent of the S-Class has been revised, with nearly 2,700 components either new or updated. The changes underline the brand’s intent to keep its flagship sedan at the forefront of luxury, technology and comfort. ALSO READ: Mercedes-Benz VLE Electric MPV to Debut in March 2026 Visually, the refreshed S-Class adopts a revised exterior design highlighted by an upright Mercedes star on the bonnet, reinforcing its traditional flagship identity. Inside and beneath the surface, the car introduces the latest Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), bringing next-generation digital functionality and connected features to the cabin. Buyers will also have access to expanded Manufaktur Made...

VinFast has achieved a major safety milestone in India, with its VF 6 and VF 7 electric SUVs earning the highest 5-star rating from Bharat NCAP. The results underline VinFast’s engineering focus on occupant protection and its commitment to meeting India’s increasingly stringent vehicle safety standards. In Bharat NCAP testing, both models scored five stars in Adult and Child Occupant Protection. The VF 6 recorded 27.13 out of 32 points for Adult Occupant Protection and 44.41 out of 49 points for Child Occupant Protection. The VF 7 performed even stronger, scoring 28.54/32 in AOP and 45.25/49 in COP, highlighting robust protection for families. Crash test performance further reinforced these results. In frontal impact tests, both the VF 6 and VF 7 achieved maximum scores for head, neck and upper leg protection for the driver and front passenger. Side impact tests also returned full marks for both adult and child occupant safety. In pole side impact testing, head injury values were re...

Toyota Kirloskar Motor has officially entered India’s battery electric vehicle space with the launch of the all-electric Urban Cruiser Ebella. Marking a major milestone for the brand, the new electric SUV blends Toyota’s global electrification expertise with bold styling, modern technology and a strong focus on safety and ownership assurance. Based on the Urban SUV Concept, the Urban Cruiser Ebella aligns with Toyota’s multipathway approach to electrification, offering Indian customers a new zero-emission mobility option while supporting the country’s decarbonisation and energy security goals. The electric SUV is offered with two battery options—49 kWh and 61 kWh—delivering a claimed driving range of up to 543 km on a single charge. Designed to look the part, it features Toyota’s signature hammerhead front design, sleek aerodynamics, premium LED lighting, dual-tone paint options and 18-inch alloy wheels, giving it a confident SUV stance. Inside, the cabin focuses on space and com...

Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation (MFTBC), part of Daimler Truck, has officially introduced the eCanter all-electric light-duty truck in the United Arab Emirates. The regional debut took place in Dubai in collaboration with authorised distributor Al Habtoor Motors, bringing together customers and key stakeholders from the commercial vehicle industry. Billed as Japan’s first mass-produced electric light-duty truck, the eCanter has already been rolled out across several global markets. It is aimed squarely at urban-focused operations such as city logistics, municipal services and last-mile delivery, where zero-emission mobility is becoming increasingly critical. The eCanter offers zero tailpipe emissions, significantly lower noise levels and reduced operating costs compared to conventional diesel trucks. To suit a wide range of business needs, the electric truck is available with multiple battery configurations and flexible body options, allowing operators to customise range,...

Scania’s L-series cab has secured a five-star rating in Euro NCAP’s Safer Trucks programme, marking the highest possible score in the European safety assessment for commercial vehicles. The accolade was awarded to the electric L-cab variant, part of Scania’s utility-focused lineup that includes refuse collectors and urban service trucks. Designed specifically for city and vocational use, the L-series features a low-entry cab that improves visibility and reduces blind spots—critical advantages in dense urban environments. Its strong safety performance is backed by a comprehensive suite of active driver-assistance systems. These include advanced emergency braking, lane departure warning with active steering intervention, and a side-turn emergency brake that can detect cyclists when the truck is turning across their path. On the passive safety front, the L-cab is equipped with driver and side curtain airbags. It can also be specified with Scania’s City Door, which opens within a minima...

Ducati has unveiled the Panigale V4 Tricolore, a limited-run collector’s superbike that celebrates Italian pride, racing legacy, and cutting-edge performance. Limited to just 1,000 numbered units globally, the Tricolore pays homage to the iconic 1984 Ducati 750 F1 and continues the tradition of Tricolore-liveried flagship Ducatis. Based on the latest Panigale V4, the Tricolore wears a striking asymmetrical white, red, and green paint scheme designed by Drudi Performance and Centro Stile Ducati. The Italian tricolour is paired with a chequered-flag motif on the fairing, while race-style number plates add to its factory racer vibe. Beneath the skin, the seventh-generation Panigale V4 brings a revised chassis, integrated aerodynamics, and advanced electronics including Ducati Vehicle Observer (DVO) and Race eCBS. ALSO READ: Ducati Panigale V4 R With Over 330 KMPH Top Speed Launched in India For the first time, a Tricolore gets serious track-focused hardware. Highlights include fi...

Suzuki Motor Corporation has inaugurated its second biogas facility in India, strengthening its push toward cleaner and more sustainable mobility. The new Banas Suzuki Biogas Plant, located in Bhukhala, Banaskantha district of Gujarat, follows the launch of the company’s first plant at Agthala in December 2025. Developed in partnership with the National Dairy Development Board and Banas Dairy, the facility is part of an agreement signed in September 2023 to set up five biogas plants across the region. The plant converts cow dung into biogas for use as fuel in CNG vehicles, while also producing organic fertiliser as a by-product. Spread across 27,000 square metres, the Bhukhala plant can process up to 100 tonnes of cow dung every day, generating around 1.5 tonnes of biogas—enough to fuel approximately 850 CNG vehicles daily. Given that CNG-powered cars account for nearly 20 percent of India’s passenger vehicle market, Suzuki sees biogas as a key carbon-neutral solution to support cl...

Abu Dhabi has officially entered the era of fully autonomous mobility, with Baidu’s Apollo Go and K2’s AutoGo launching a commercial driverless ride-hailing service in the emirate. The service is now live on Yas Island, with phased expansion planned for Reem, Al Maryah and Saadiyat Islands in the coming months. Available via the AutoGo app, the service allows users to book rides in vehicles that operate without a human driver on board. Yas Island has been designated as an approved zone for fully driverless operations, marking a major milestone for smart mobility in the UAE. The partners are aiming to deploy hundreds of autonomous vehicles across Abu Dhabi by 2026. Apollo Go brings significant global experience to the project, operating in 22 cities worldwide and having logged over 240 million autonomous kilometres. More than 140 million of those kilometres were completed in fully driverless mode, with over 17 million rides recorded by October 2025. ALSO READ: Motional Targets F...

Volvo Cars Canada has returned to the Montreal International Auto Show (MIAS) with its latest premium lineup, headlined by the Canadian auto show debut of the Volvo EX30 Cross Country. The rugged take on Volvo’s smallest electric SUV is designed to offer extra versatility and confidence without losing its compact, city-friendly footprint. Based on the EX30, the Cross Country variant brings a tougher edge to electric mobility. It features a raised chassis, front and rear skid plates, and distinctive black exterior accents that underline its go-anywhere character. Aimed at drivers who want adventure-ready capability in a small EV, the EX30 Cross Country blends Scandinavian minimalism with practical upgrades and Volvo’s signature focus on safety. The debut also highlights the importance of Quebec for Volvo Cars Canada, particularly as the brand accelerates its electrification push. The Montreal Auto Show serves as a key platform for introducing the EX30 Cross Country to Canadian buyer...

Motional, the autonomous driving joint venture backed by Hyundai Motor Group, has confirmed plans to roll out a fully driverless Level 4 robotaxi service in Las Vegas by the end of 2026. The announcement follows supervised pilot operations conducted earlier using the Hyundai Ioniq 5 robotaxi platform. As part of its next development phase, Motional is shifting to end-to-end AI motion planning. This approach merges perception, decision-making and vehicle control into a single learned system, moving away from traditional modular software. The goal is to deliver more natural, adaptable driving behaviour across complex real-world scenarios. The Ioniq 5-based robotaxis are manufactured at the Hyundai Motor Group Innovation Center Singapore and engineered to meet US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Independent safety assessments have also been carried out by TÜV SÜD. Motional’s validation strategy includes extensive simulation testing, closed-course evaluations and a gradual expan...

Maruti Suzuki India Limited has officially commenced export shipments of its premium SUV, VICTORIS, marking a key milestone in the brand’s global ambitions. Over 450 units have been dispatched from Mundra and Pipavav ports, bound for international markets, where the SUV will be sold under the name Across. Developed and manufactured in India, the VICTORIS is positioned as a modern, tech-forward SUV that blends intelligent features, premium comfort and futuristic design. It reflects Maruti Suzuki’s ‘Got It All’ philosophy, aimed at delivering a well-rounded ownership experience for global customers. The SUV has already demonstrated strong safety credentials, securing a 5-star rating in both Global NCAP and Bharat NCAP, reinforcing its appeal in safety-conscious international markets. Adding to its global profile, the Made-in-India VICTORIS was showcased at the Japan Mobility Show 2025, offering international audiences a closer look at Maruti Suzuki’s evolving product capabilities. W...

BYD has officially announced UK pricing for its new Sealion 5 DM-i plug-in hybrid SUV, with prices starting at £29,995 on the road for the Comfort trim and rising to £32,995 for the higher-spec Design variant. The Sealion 5 DM-i becomes BYD’s ninth model in the UK, with order books now open and showroom arrivals scheduled from 7 February. Positioned as an accessible electrified SUV, the Sealion 5 DM-i uses BYD’s proven dual-mode hybrid system, pairing a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor for a combined output of 212 PS. The focus here is efficiency without range anxiety, making it a compelling alternative to full EVs. The entry-level Comfort trim is equipped with a 12.96 kWh battery, delivering more than 38 miles of electric-only range, ideal for daily urban commutes. Step up to the Design trim and the larger 18.3 kWh battery extends EV range to 53 miles, allowing many drivers to complete regular journeys without using the petrol engine at all. With both power sources wo...

The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued an urgent safety warning after counterfeit airbag inflators imported from China were linked to eight driver fatalities and two serious injuries in the United States. The inflators, allegedly manufactured by Jilin Province Detiannuo Automobile Safety System Co. Ltd. (DTN), are believed to have been illegally brought into the country and installed as replacement parts. According to NHTSA, the counterfeit inflators ruptured during crashes, firing metal fragments into vehicle occupants instead of deploying safely—an extremely dangerous failure mode reminiscent of past airbag scandals. All ten known incidents involved vehicles that had their original airbags replaced after earlier crashes, raising serious concerns about the use of unverified parts in accident repairs. So far, confirmed cases have involved Chevrolet Malibu and Hyundai Sonata models, many of which carried salvage or rebuilt titles. However, the agency...

BYD has strengthened its customer promise in Europe by extending the warranty on its Blade Battery to eight years or 250,000km, up from the earlier 150,000km limit. The updated warranty applies across the European Economic Area, Switzerland and the UK, while retaining the same eight-year duration and a guaranteed minimum 70% state of health. Crucially, the expanded coverage isn’t limited to new buyers. BYD confirmed that existing owners of its battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids will also benefit automatically, reinforcing confidence in the brand’s long-term EV ownership proposition. The Blade Battery is a core part of BYD’s electric strategy and is fitted to all BYD passenger vehicles sold in Europe. Based on lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry, the battery is designed for durability, thermal stability and long service life. According to BYD, the Blade Battery has been proven to exceed 3,000 charge and discharge cycles, translating to a potential lifespan of up to 1.2 ...

Bajaj Auto has expanded its electric scooter line-up with the launch of the all-new Chetak C25, a stylish and lightweight addition aimed squarely at urban riders. Designed for easy everyday mobility, the C25 brings a younger and more contemporary vibe to the Chetak family, while retaining the brand’s core values of solidity, reliability and a reassuring ride feel. Built to slip through congested city streets with ease, the Chetak C25 targets evolving urban lifestyles and multi-scooter households looking for convenient, independent mobility. Staying true to the Chetak’s identity, it features a premium metal body with a clean mono-body construction, a signature DRL headlamp and a high-quality paint finish. The neo-classic design is paired with six vibrant colour options and youthful, street art-inspired graphics. Powering the C25 is a 2.5 kWh battery pack, delivering a claimed range of up to 113 km and a top speed of 55 km/h—ideal for daily city commutes. Fast charging supports up to...

Suzuki Motorcycle India has refreshed its popular 250cc line-up with new colour options and updated graphics for the GIXXER SF 250 and GIXXER 250. The update adds visual appeal to two motorcycles that are already known for blending everyday usability with sporty performance. The fully-faired GIXXER SF 250, recognised for its aerodynamic design and refined road manners, is now available in two new shades: Glass Sparkle Black and Pearl Glacier White with Metallic Mat Platinum Silver. These join the existing Metallic Triton Blue with Pearl Glacier White option. The naked GIXXER 250, with its muscular stance and agile character, now comes in three new colour combinations: Pearl Glacier White with Metallic Mat Platinum Silver, Metallic Triton Blue with Glass Sparkle Black, and Glass Sparkle Black. Both motorcycles are powered by a 250cc single-cylinder engine with a single overhead camshaft layout, producing 26.5 PS at 9,300 rpm and 22.2 Nm at 7,300 rpm. Suzuki’s Eco Performance (SEP) t...

Jeep has showcased its latest European line-up at the 2026 Brussels Motor Show, putting the spotlight on the new Compass range while also unveiling the Avenger Black Edition and the all-electric Wagoneer S flagship. The reveal comes on the back of a strong 2025 for the brand in Europe, with Jeep posting double-digit sales growth in key markets such as the UK (17%), Austria (39%) and Portugal (48%), while maintaining a 1.8% share of the European SUV market. Leading the charge is the updated Compass, offered in Compass e-Hybrid Plug-In and Compass 4xe guises. The plug-in hybrid delivers 225hp and offers over 90km of electric-only range on the combined cycle, with a total driving range of up to 983km. For off-road-focused buyers, the Compass 4xe introduces a new rear electric motor developed exclusively for this model, producing 132kW and up to 3,100Nm of torque at the rear wheels. The setup is paired with a 10mm suspension lift and redesigned bumpers to improve trail capability. Jee...

Renault has taken the wraps off the Filante, a new E-segment hybrid crossover that will headline the brand’s international lineup under its 2027 International Game Plan, aimed squarely at markets outside Europe. Positioned as Renault’s global flagship, the Filante will be built at Renault Korea’s Busan facility and sits on the CMA platform, developed in collaboration with Alliance partners. Powering the Filante is Renault’s E-Tech 250 full-hybrid system, delivering 250 ps and blending efficiency with the performance expected from a flagship crossover. Renault is targeting the highly competitive E segment, which currently accounts for 26.2 per cent of the South Korean market, underlining the model’s strategic importance. The rollout begins with South Korea in March 2026, followed by an expansion into Latin American markets such as Colombia, Chile and Uruguay. The Gulf States are next in line, with a launch planned for early 2027. The Filante will join models like the Kardian, Duster...

Kia has taken the wraps off the EV2 at the 2026 Brussels Motor Show, introducing its sixth dedicated electric model and a new gateway into the brand’s EV portfolio. Positioned as a compact B-segment electric SUV, the EV2 is aimed squarely at urban buyers looking to step into electric mobility without compromising on space or tech. The EV2 will be offered with two battery options. The standard 42.2 kWh pack delivers an estimated 317 km WLTP range, while the larger 61.0 kWh battery stretches that figure to 448 km. Fast-charging capability allows a 10–80 per cent top-up in around 30 minutes, making the EV2 well suited for daily city use and short highway runs. Measuring 4,060 mm in length, the compact SUV punches above its weight in terms of features. Highlights include Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) bidirectional charging, Remote Smart Parking Assist, and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen anchoring the cabin tech. Production of the standard-range EV2 is scheduled...

Nissan has taken the wraps off the Aura Nismo RS Concept at Tokyo Auto Salon 2026, showcasing a hardcore take on its compact hot hatch. The concept blends the Aura Nismo platform with the X-Trail Nismo’s e-Power series-hybrid setup and Nissan’s e-4orce all-wheel control technology, hinting at a serious performance-oriented future. Nissan has also confirmed it is studying the feasibility of bringing the concept to production, with motorsport applications firmly on the table. Visually, the Aura Nismo RS Concept means business. The bodywork has been widened by a massive 145 mm, while the suspension sits 20 mm lower than standard. A full aero kit—featuring a front splitter, aggressive side skirts, a rear diffuser and a dedicated rear spoiler—adds both visual drama and functional downforce. Under the skin, the concept packs a dual-motor e-Power system, with a 150 kW motor at the front and a 100 kW motor at the rear, backed by a 1.5-litre engine acting purely as a power generator. Despit...

The all-new Mercedes-Benz CLA has clinched the prestigious European Car of the Year 2026 title, announced at the Brussels Motor Show. The electric CLA emerged on top after scoring 320 points, beating 34 new contenders and six finalists, as voted by a jury of 60 automotive journalists from 23 countries. A big contributor to its win is the electric CLA’s cutting-edge EV credentials. The model delivers a WLTP-certified range of up to 792 km, placing it among the most efficient electric cars in its class. Its 200 kW powertrain is paired with 800V architecture, enabling ultra-fast charging that can add up to 325 km of range in just 10 minutes, a major plus for long-distance usability. On sale in Europe since mid-2025, the electric CLA has already proven to be a commercial success. Mercedes-Benz revealed that customer demand has exceeded expectations, with the order books filled well into the second half of 2026. The model is also set to expand its global footprint, with launches planned...

Ather Energy has announced a major expansion of its public charging ecosystem, giving Ather riders access to over 5,000 fast chargers equipped with the LECCS (Light Electric Combined Charging System) connector. The growing network now spans 395+ cities, strengthening convenience for both daily commutes and long-distance electric rides. Of the total, 3,675+ fast chargers are directly operated by Ather Energy, while 1,400+ chargers are available through partner networks. The chargers are strategically located across metros, tier 2 and tier 3 cities, as well as key intercity routes. Major cities such as Bengaluru, Pune, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad and Mumbai each host over 100 LECCS chargers, with Bengaluru alone featuring more than 240. At a state level, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Gujarat lead in public fast-charger availability. Smaller cities are also seeing strong coverage, with places like Nashik, Malappuram and Indore offering over 45 chargers, while Kozhikode a...

Triumph Motorcycles has announced a limited-period New Year offer on its 400 cc motorcycles in India, the Triumph Speed 400 and Triumph Speed T4, adding extra value for riders looking to step into the brand’s premium middleweight lineup. Under the offer, customers purchasing either model will receive genuine Triumph accessories worth ₹11,500 at no additional cost. The Triumph Speed 400 is priced at ₹2.39 lakh, while the Triumph Speed T4 comes in at ₹1.95 lakh (both ex-showroom, Delhi). With this New Year benefit, Triumph is offering buyers a chance to enhance their motorcycles without increasing the overall cost of ownership. Both models reflect Triumph’s signature design DNA combined with engaging performance and everyday usability. The Speed 400 is positioned as a modern roadster with a strong emphasis on performance and refinement, while the Speed T4 offers a more accessible entry point into Triumph’s 400 cc portfolio, appealing to riders seeking style and comfort for daily ridi...

KTM has rolled out a limited-period New Year offer on its popular adventure motorcycles, the KTM 390 Adventure and KTM 390 Adventure X, aimed at adding more value for buyers across India. Under the offer, customers will receive genuine KTM accessories worth ₹10,000 along with an extended warranty of up to 10 years, valued at ₹2,650, at no extra cost. The complimentary accessory package has been curated to enhance real-world adventure touring and off-road capability, staying true to KTM’s “Made for Adventure” philosophy. Depending on the variant, the kit includes practical additions such as a headlamp protector, mudflap extension, lower front fender, centre stand, touring seat, and a KTM bike cover—all designed to improve protection, comfort and usability during long rides and rough terrain. Adding to the appeal is the extended warranty package, which offers long-term ownership peace of mind and reinforces KTM’s confidence in the durability of its 390 Adventure platform. The extende...

Motive has introduced AI Dashcam Plus, a next-generation dashcam designed for commercial vehicles, bringing advanced artificial intelligence and enhanced safety features into a single, integrated device. The new system is powered by Qualcomm’s Dragonwing QCS6490 processor, which Motive claims delivers three times more AI processing capability than conventional dashcams. A key highlight of AI Dashcam Plus is its dual forward-facing stereo vision setup. Using two synchronised road-facing cameras, the system can accurately judge distance and closing speed, significantly improving forward collision warnings and lane departure alerts. This stereo approach allows the dashcam to better understand real-world driving scenarios compared to single-lens systems. The device is capable of running over 30 AI models simultaneously, enabling real-time collision detection, risky driving behaviour analysis and driver safety applications. It also features hands-free two-way calling, supporting better c...

LG Electronics has announced that Amazon Prime Video will be integrated into its Automotive Content Platform (ACP) from the second quarter of 2026 , expanding in-car entertainment options for future vehicles. Automakers using LG’s system will be able to offer passengers access to Prime Video’s library of films, TV series, live events and Prime Originals directly through the vehicle’s infotainment system. The announcement was made at CES 2026 in Las Vegas , where LG showcased its webOS-based Automotive Content Platform. The system also earned a CES Best of Innovation Award , underlining its growing importance in the rapidly evolving in-car digital experience space. LG ACP is part of the company’s broader AlphaWare software suite , which focuses on transforming vehicles into connected, experience-driven “living spaces” rather than just modes of transport. At its core is LG’s familiar webOS platform , the same operating system that powers the brand’s smart televisions worldwide, now ...

Renault is set to showcase the Twingo E-Tech electric to the public for the first time at the Brussels Motor Show from January 9 to 18, with order books opening a day earlier on January 8. Prices start at €19,490 for the base Evolution variant, before applicable government incentives, positioning it as an accessible electric city car. Built on Renault’s AmpR Small platform, the Twingo E-Tech electric is powered by a 60 kW electric motor paired with a 27.5 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery. This setup delivers a WLTP-rated range of 263 km, making it well suited for urban commuting and daily use. The higher Techno variant is priced at €21,200 and adds a more tech-focused experience. Key highlights include Renault’s OpenR Link infotainment system with Google built-in, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, and one-pedal driving for smoother city driving. Both versions come standard with a 6.6 kW AC charger, while an optional charging pack upgrades the car with ...

Renault India has announced a major development milestone for the all-new Renault Duster , confirming that the upcoming SUV has completed an extensive global testing programme covering over 1 million kilometres . The rigorous validation drive spanned three continents and exposed the new Duster to extreme temperatures ranging from –23°C to 55°C , ensuring it is fully prepared for diverse and demanding road conditions. This exhaustive test phase reinforces the Duster’s reputation as a tough, go-anywhere SUV. Renault says the new-generation model builds on the legacy of the original Duster while setting higher benchmarks for durability, stability and on-road safety. Testing included long-term endurance runs across R&D facilities, proving grounds and public roads worldwide. One of the standout challenges was high-altitude testing in Leh-Ladakh , where the SUV successfully reached Khardung La at 5,602 metres , validating performance in low-oxygen conditions. The Duster was also su...

Mitsubishi Motors has officially confirmed the launch of the Xforce in Taiwan, marking an important milestone for the brand in the region. Sales of the compact SUV will begin in January, with local production handled by Mitsubishi’s long-time partner, China Motor Corporation (CMC), at its Yangmei manufacturing plant. This is a significant moment for Mitsubishi in Taiwan, as it is the first newly developed, locally produced model the brand has introduced in the market in nearly nine years. By assembling the Xforce locally, Mitsubishi aims to strengthen its footprint while catering specifically to Taiwanese customer preferences and regulations. Globally, the Xforce has already proven its appeal. The five-seat compact SUV made its debut in Indonesia in November 2023 and has since been rolled out across Vietnam, the Philippines, parts of Latin America, Africa and the Middle East. Cumulative worldwide sales currently stand at around 62,000 units, underlining the model’s strong acceptanc...

Volkswagen has unveiled a new cockpit architecture that will shape the interiors of its future ID. models, starting with the all-new ID. Polo. Developed using direct customer feedback, the new Volkswagen cockpit design marks a clear shift towards more intuitive usability, higher perceived quality, and familiar control layouts. A key highlight of the new Volkswagen cockpit design is the return of physical buttons. Volkswagen has reintroduced dedicated controls for essential functions, including climate settings, addressing long-standing user feedback. The interior layout follows traditional Volkswagen operating logic, making the system easier to use while driving. Premium materials are used throughout the cabin, with selected surfaces incorporating recycled content. The driver-focused setup features two screens positioned on a single line of sight. These include a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a larger 13-inch infotainment touchscreen. Below the infotainment screen are s...

Volkswagen Abu Dhabi has kicked off the new year by announcing a pre-booking campaign for two of its most established sedans—the Passat and the Jetta—offering customers early access along with a bundled ownership package. The campaign goes live in the first week of January 2026. The Volkswagen Passat can be pre-booked with prices starting at AED 109,000, or AED 1,549 per month, while the Volkswagen Jetta starts at AED 91,000, translating to AED 1,299 per month. To sweeten the deal, both sedans come with a comprehensive ownership plan aimed at reducing long-term running concerns. This includes a three-year unlimited mileage warranty, three years of service or up to 45,000 km, three years of roadside assistance, and complimentary vehicle registration. With this pre-booking initiative, Volkswagen Abu Dhabi is positioning the Passat and Jetta as value-focused sedan options for customers seeking comfort, reliability, and predictable ownership costs in the UAE market as 2026 begins. ...

Toyota has temporarily instructed its employees in Venezuela to work from home following heightened political and security concerns after recent US military action that led to the detention and transfer of President Nicolás Maduro to New York for trial. The Japanese automaker confirmed that all expatriate staff and their families are safe, though it did not disclose how many employees are covered under the remote work directive. The company clarified that the temporary arrangement has not impacted its sales or production activities. However, Toyota’s operations in Venezuela have already been under pressure for several years due to economic instability and international sanctions. Its Cumana plant, which once produced models such as the Corolla, has seen repeated disruptions, with annual output falling to just a few hundred vehicles by 2020 before operations were briefly suspended. Despite these challenges, automotive trade between Japan and Venezuela showed growth in 2024. Accordin...

BMW is set to become the first carmaker to integrate Amazon’s new Alexa+ technology into its in-car voice assistant, taking conversational AI in vehicles a step further. The AI-powered system will debut in the upcoming BMW iX3 and begin rolling out to customers in Germany and the US from the second half of 2026. With Alexa+ onboard, BMW’s Intelligent Personal Assistant moves beyond rigid voice commands. Drivers and passengers can interact using natural, conversational dialogue, asking multiple questions in a single sentence that span both vehicle functions and general knowledge. Powered by a large language model, the system understands context, responds intelligently, and allows seamless follow-up questions without repeating commands. The update also enables deeper integration with Amazon’s ecosystem. By linking their Amazon accounts, users can search for and stream music, access news updates, and tap into a wide range of Alexa-supported content directly from the car. This creates ...

Jawa Yezdi Motorcycles has taken a big digital leap by listing its latest models, including the 2025 Yezdi Adventure and 2025 Yezdi Roadster, on Amazon and Flipkart. After recording strong festive sales through physical dealerships, Yezdi’s most popular motorcycles are now just a click away on India’s two largest e-commerce platforms, making ownership easier for riders across key markets. This move builds on the brand’s successful online debut last year, when it became one of the first to offer premium classic motorcycles via Flipkart, followed by Amazon. With Yezdi now strengthening its digital distribution, customers can browse, book and begin the purchase journey online, while deliveries and formalities remain backed by the brand’s expanding dealer network. The online buying process is straightforward. Customers pay the ex-showroom booking amount on Amazon or Flipkart, after which an authorised local dealer confirms the order and assists with the remaining on-road payment. Regis...