Volvo will launch its flagship electric SUV, the EX90, in India on October 12, 2026. The three-row electric SUV will sit above the EC40 in Volvo’s local portfolio and is expected to arrive as a completely built unit (CBU).

The EX90 made its global debut in 2022 and is positioned as the electric counterpart to the XC90. Internationally, Volvo offers the SUV with six- and seven-seat configurations, depending on the variant. The exact seating layout and specifications for the India-spec model are yet to be confirmed.

Volvo EX90 Design And Dimensions

The EX90 follows Volvo’s restrained design approach, with relatively clean surfaces and minimal visual detailing. The front end features a closed-off grille area with the Volvo logo, while the headlights use the brand’s distinctive T-shaped LED daytime running light signature.

The side profile carries design cues familiar from the XC90, including a long shoulder line and an upright SUV silhouette. At the rear, the EX90 uses a split lighting arrangement, with C-shaped units positioned on the tailgate and additional elements extending vertically along the rear pillars.

The overall design is closely related to Volvo’s current electric models while retaining the proportions expected from a large three-row SUV.

Minimalist Cabin With Large Touchscreen

The interior follows Volvo’s current minimalist approach. A 14.5-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen sits prominently on the dashboard and serves as the primary interface for many vehicle functions.

The system incorporates Google built-in services, 5G connectivity and support for over-the-air software updates. The infotainment platform also uses Unreal Engine, while processing hardware from NVIDIA and Snapdragon supports the vehicle’s digital systems and driver-assistance functions.

Unlike the smaller EX30, the EX90 gets a dedicated digital instrument display for the driver.

Volvo EX90 Powertrain Options

The EX90 is offered internationally with rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations. The rear-wheel-drive version uses a 92kWh battery and develops 245kW and 470 Nm.

The all-wheel-drive versions use a larger 106kWh battery. The standard AWD version produces 335kW and 670 Nm, while the Performance variant increases output to 500kW and 870 Nm.

Internationally claimed driving range varies by powertrain, with the rear-wheel-drive version rated for up to 565 km and the AWD model offering up to 620 km.

Volvo has not yet confirmed which powertrain and battery configuration will be offered in India, so the final specifications may differ from those available in other markets.

Charging And Battery Technology

The EX90 supports DC fast charging at rates of up to 350kW. Volvo claims a 10-80 percent charging time of approximately 22 minutes when using a sufficiently powerful DC charger.

Using a 3-phase 16A AC charger, a full charge can take up to around 11 hours. Actual charging times in India will depend on the charging infrastructure available to customers.

Expected Positioning And Rivals

The EX90 is expected to be imported into India as a CBU, which is likely to place it at the higher end of Volvo’s local range.

Once launched, the electric SUV will compete with premium electric models such as the BMW iX and Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV. Its positioning will depend on the final India-spec powertrain, equipment and pricing, all of which are expected to be announced closer to the launch.

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Kia has confirmed plans to introduce hybrid powertrains for the Sonet and Carens Clavis in India by 2029. The announcement was made at the company’s 2026 CEO Investor Day, where Kia also outlined plans for a locally developed electric SUV in the B-segment.

Kia president and CEO Ho Sung Song said the company will expand its hybrid-electric vehicle range across key models from 2027 onwards. The Seltos is also expected to receive a hybrid powertrain, while the Carnival and Sorento are set to add hybrid variants to Kia’s Indian portfolio.

Kia Sonet Hybrid Expected With Next Generation

The Sonet is expected to enter its next generation in 2027, with the hybrid version likely to follow by 2028 or 2029.

The upcoming Sonet is expected to shift to Kia’s K1 platform, which is also used by models such as the Hyundai Venue and Kia Syros. The architecture is understood to support electrified powertrains as well as newer electrical and electronic systems.

The new platform could also address some of the limitations of the current Sonet, particularly rear-seat space. Kia is expected to introduce features such as over-the-air software updates and remote diagnostics as part of the newer electronic architecture.

Technical details of the Sonet hybrid have not yet been confirmed. Kia has previously been reported to be developing a strong-hybrid system for the next-generation model.

Carens Clavis Hybrid To Follow

The Carens Clavis will also receive a hybrid powertrain in its next generation, with the company targeting introduction by 2029.

The current Carens Clavis is available with petrol, turbo-petrol, diesel and electric powertrains, giving Kia a broad range of propulsion options in the MPV segment.

The upcoming hybrid system could share technology with the Seltos hybrid, which is expected to arrive in India in 2027. The Seltos hybrid is reportedly being developed around a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, although Kia has not officially confirmed the final specifications.

Kia To Develop New B-Segment Electric SUV

Alongside its hybrid plans, Kia has confirmed a new B-segment electric SUV that will be developed and manufactured locally in India.

The company has not disclosed specifications or a launch date for the model. It is expected to sit between the Syros and Seltos in Kia’s portfolio and could measure around 4.2 metres in length.

The new model will target India’s expanding electric SUV market and will be developed specifically with greater localisation in mind.

Carnival Hybrid Coming To India

Kia has also confirmed that the Carnival hybrid will be introduced in India this year. The company has not yet revealed the India-spec powertrain details.

The global Carnival hybrid uses a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine combined with an electric hybrid system. In its international specification, the setup produces 242 HP and 367 Nm and is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels.

The India-spec version could differ in terms of specifications and equipment, with more details expected closer to its launch.

Kia Targets Ten-Model Electrified Line-Up

Kia’s latest plans indicate a broader shift towards electrification rather than an immediate move away from internal-combustion engines.

The company aims to have 10 models in its Indian portfolio by 2030, covering internal-combustion, hybrid and electric powertrains. Kia expects eight of those models to feature some form of electrification.

The strategy will allow Kia to offer multiple powertrain choices across different segments as consumer demand, charging infrastructure and regulatory requirements continue to evolve.

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Mahindra has introduced a six-seat configuration for the XEV 9S in India, with prices starting at Rs. 25.25 lakhs (ex-showroom). The new layout replaces the second-row bench with two individual captain seats and is available across selected variants.

The six-seat XEV 9S is offered with the Pack Two Above, Pack Three and Pack Three Above trims. It is not available on the entry-level Pack One Above variant.

Mahindra XEV 9S Six-Seat Prices

The six-seat configuration commands a Rs. 25,000 premium over the corresponding seven-seat version. Prices for the available variants are as follows:

Prices mentioned do not include the cost of the 11.2kW AC charger.

Captain Seats Change Second-Row Layout

The main difference between the two configurations is the second-row seating arrangement. The six-seat version gets two individual captain seats, each with its own armrests.

The space between the seats creates a passage towards the third row, potentially making access easier compared with the seven-seat version. The revised layout also leaves more floor space around the third-row occupants.

Other rear-seat features, including rear AC vents and two 65W USB charging ports, continue to be offered.

There are no major changes to the rest of the cabin as part of the new seating configuration.

Battery And Powertrain Options

The six-seat XEV 9S is available with 70kWh and 79kWh battery packs, depending on the variant.

All versions use a single electric motor mounted at the rear, producing up to 380 Nm of torque. The Pack Two variant has its motor output limited to 245 HP, while the other configurations develop 286 HP.

Mahindra claims a maximum range of up to 600 km for the 70kWh version and up to 679 km for the 79kWh version.

The addition of the 6-seat configuration gives buyers another option within the XEV 9S range, with the primary difference being the second-row seating arrangement rather than the vehicle’s underlying powertrain or equipment package.

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Skoda is assessing the possibility of introducing CNG-powered versions of the Kylaq, Kushaq and Slavia in India. The company is exploring the use of its 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine with a CNG powertrain, although there is no confirmation yet on whether or when such variants will enter production.

Skoda India brand director Ashish Gupta indicated that the three models could potentially accommodate the technology because they share the 1.0-litre engine and MQB A0-IN platform. The Kylaq is currently being considered as the initial priority for the potential CNG programme.

Skoda Looking At CNG To Diversify Its Portfolio

Skoda’s current India range is predominantly petrol-powered, with the Superb set to bring a diesel engine back to the brand’s portfolio when it returns in 2027.

The company is now evaluating alternative powertrain options as consumer preferences and fuel-related considerations evolve. According to Skoda, factors including uncertainty around ethanol blending and concerns linked to the Middle East situation have affected sentiment towards petrol-powered vehicles.

A CNG option could allow Skoda to offer buyers a lower running-cost alternative while retaining its existing petrol-based platform architecture.

1.0 TSI Could Be Adapted For CNG

The potential CNG models would be based on Skoda’s 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine. In its existing petrol configuration, the engine develops 115 HP and 178 Nm and is available with both manual and automatic transmissions.

One of the challenges for Skoda will be ensuring that the CNG version retains an acceptable level of performance. Turbocharged petrol engines can deliver strong output for their size, while CNG operation typically involves some reduction in performance.

Skoda believes customers could accept a moderate reduction in output in exchange for improved fuel economy and lower running costs. The company is therefore examining how the powertrain could be calibrated to balance efficiency and the driving characteristics associated with its models.

Kylaq Could Be The First Priority

Among the three models, the Kylaq is currently the main focus of Skoda’s CNG evaluation. The compact SUV operates in a segment where CNG-powered alternatives are already available from several manufacturers.

The Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, Renault Kiger and Nissan Magnite are among the models competing in the compact SUV space, although not all offer CNG powertrains. The Tata Nexon is notable for offering a turbocharged petrol engine with CNG.

The Kushaq also competes in a segment where CNG options are available, with models such as the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder and Maruti Suzuki Victoris offering the fuel option.

The Slavia, meanwhile, could occupy a more distinctive position if a CNG version is introduced. CNG options are currently less common among mid-size sedans, potentially giving Skoda another way to differentiate the model.

CNG Could Move Beyond Entry-Level Cars

Skoda also sees potential for CNG vehicles outside the traditional budget-oriented segments. The company believes some buyers of relatively expensive vehicles could consider CNG if the overall product and pricing make economic sense.

The Kylaq is currently priced between Rs. 7.59 lakhs and Rs. 12.99 lakhs, while the Kushaq ranges from Rs. 10.69 lakhs to Rs. 18.99 lakhs. Pricing for the facelifted Slavia has yet to be announced.

Adding CNG technology would likely involve additional costs and could affect boot space and vehicle weight, depending on the final system. The pricing and packaging of any such variant will therefore be important in determining its appeal.

For now, Skoda’s CNG programme remains under evaluation. The company has not announced a launch timeline or confirmed which of its models will ultimately receive the powertrain.

Source

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Skoda has opened bookings for a second batch of the Octavia RS in India. The company has allocated 50 units for this batch, with deliveries expected to begin around the upcoming festive season.

The new allocation follows the first batch of 100 cars that was sold in India last year. The Octavia RS will continue to be imported as a completely built unit (CBU), which is likely to keep its price significantly higher than locally assembled Skoda models.

Existing customers who had registered their interest earlier will be given priority before bookings are opened to new buyers.

Skoda Octavia RS Second Batch: What We Know

Skoda had previously indicated that it was looking at bringing additional Octavia RS units to India after the first allocation was sold out. The company had reportedly received significantly more interest than the number of cars available, with around 350 bookings recorded at one stage.

The first batch was launched at an ex-showroom price of Rs. 49.99 lakhs. Skoda has not yet announced the price for the second batch, so the final figure could differ from the previous allocation.

Only 50 units have been allocated this time, making the second batch smaller than the initial 100-car allocation.

Octavia RS Engine And Performance

The Octavia RS will continue with the 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine used in the current model. It produces 265 HP and 370 Nm and is paired with a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission.

Power is sent to the front wheels. Skoda claims the Octavia RS can accelerate from 0-100 km/hr in 6.4 seconds, while the electronically limited top speed is 250 km/hr.

The same 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine is also used in the Volkswagen Golf GTI, which is also expected to receive another allocation for the Indian market.

Three Colour Options

The second batch of the Octavia RS will be offered in three exterior colours: Mamba Green, Velvet Red and Magic Black.

Apart from the limited allocation, the car will retain its position as a performance-focused version of the Octavia rather than being positioned as a mainstream variant.

Continued Demand For The Octavia RS

The limited availability of the Octavia RS follows a similar pattern seen with earlier performance versions of the model in India. The Octavia RS 245, introduced in 2020 with an allocation of 200 units, was sold out in a little over a month.

The latest allocation also comes as Skoda expands its sedan portfolio in India. The company has recently revealed the facelifted Slavia and confirmed the return of the Superb, which will be offered with a diesel engine when it arrives in 2027.

With the Octavia RS, Slavia and Superb covering different price and performance segments, Skoda will continue to have a broader sedan presence in India even as several manufacturers reduce their focus on traditional three-box models.

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Hyundai has previewed the next-generation Tucson, revealing a substantially redesigned exterior and a revamped cabin. The new-generation SUV adopts a more upright and angular appearance while also growing in size compared with the outgoing model.

The design preview does not include details about the powertrain or complete technical specifications. Hyundai is expected to provide more information later this year when the new Tucson goes on sale in South Korea, with international markets likely to follow from 2027.

New Tucson Gets Larger Dimensions

The 2027 Tucson measures approximately 4.7 metres in length, representing an increase of around 60 mm over its predecessor. Its wheelbase has also been extended to 2785 mm, with roughly half of the additional length allocated between the axles.

The SUV is now 1905 mm wide, making it around 40 mm wider than the current model. Its height has increased by approximately 20 mm to 1685 mm.

Hyundai says the dimensional changes are aimed at improving interior space. Rear-seat headroom has increased by around 29 mm, while the larger body also allows for wider access to the rear seats. The rear door opening angle has been increased by 10 degrees to 83 degrees.

More Angular Exterior Styling

The new Tucson moves away from the more intricate surfacing of the current model in favour of a boxier design. The exterior features sharper lines and a more upright stance, giving the SUV a more substantial appearance.

An illuminated H motif has been incorporated into the lighting design at both ends. The front and rear lighting elements follow a similar visual theme, while the larger quarter glass contributes to the revised proportions.

The design represents a significant departure from the current-generation Tucson, continuing Hyundai’s approach of giving each new generation a clearly differentiated appearance.

Redesigned Interior With New Infotainment System

Hyundai has also completely redesigned the Tucson’s cabin. The dashboard incorporates the company’s new Pleos infotainment system, although the manufacturer has not yet confirmed the size or complete specifications of the central touchscreen.

The display is accompanied by a row of physical controls underneath, retaining conventional switches for selected functions. A separate digital instrument display remains positioned in front of the driver rather than being integrated into the main screen.

The cabin shown in the preview features materials and detailing including perforated upholstery, wood-effect trim and ambient lighting. The overall layout appears to combine a more technology-focused dashboard with physical controls for some functions.

Powertrain Details Yet To Be Announced

Hyundai has not released information about the engines, hybrid systems or other mechanical specifications of the new Tucson as part of this initial preview.

More details are expected closer to the vehicle’s Korean market launch later this year. Specifications for other international markets, including the powertrain combinations and equipment offered in each region, are likely to be announced separately.

The next-generation Tucson is expected to reach global markets during 2027, although exact launch timelines will vary by market.

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Skoda has revealed the new generation Superb in India ahead of its expected launch in the first half of 2027. The flagship sedan will return to the Indian market in its range-topping Laurin & Klement (L&K) specification and will be sold as a completely built unit (CBU).

Skoda has also opened registrations of interest for the new Superb at dealerships, with deliveries expected to begin in the second quarter of 2027. Its arrival will bring a diesel-powered Skoda back to India after several years.

Skoda Superb Gets 2.0-Litre Diesel Engine

The India-spec Superb will be powered by a 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine producing 150 HP and 360 Nm. The engine will be paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and will drive the front wheels.

Skoda claims the sedan can accelerate from 0-100 km/hr in 9.2 seconds, while its top speed is electronically restricted to 225 km/hr.

The Superb will instead focus on front-wheel-drive configuration, while features such as Progressive Dynamic Steering and Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) will be available to alter the car’s steering and suspension characteristics depending on the selected driving mode and road conditions.

Premium Exterior Design

The fourth-generation Superb continues with the understated design approach associated with the nameplate. The front end features Skoda’s signature grille with chrome detailing, along with Matrix LED headlights and LED daytime running lights.

The sedan also gets 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, chrome-finished window surrounds and Laurin & Klement badges on the front fenders. At the rear, wraparound LED tail-lights and Skoda lettering on the boot lid complete the design.

The Superb measures 4912 mm in length, 1849 mm in width and 1511 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2841 mm. Ground clearance and boot capacity for the India-spec model have not been specified; the UK-spec car has 138 mm of ground clearance and a 645-litre boot.

Feature-Rich Cabin

The cabin gets a black-and-Cognac colour scheme and combines digital displays with physical controls. A 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system is paired with a 10-inch digital instrument cluster.

The centre console features Skoda’s rotary controls with integrated displays for functions such as climate and audio settings. Other equipment includes three-zone climate control, a 14-speaker Canton audio system, a wireless smartphone charger and rear sunblinds.

The front seats are electrically adjustable and offer heating, ventilation, memory and massage functions. A powered tailgate with gesture control is also part of the equipment list.

Skoda will also offer a ‘Sleep Package’ for the rear passengers, which includes adjustable headrests and blankets.

Safety And Driver Assistance

The new Superb will come with a range of active and passive safety equipment. The list includes 10 airbags, a 360-degree camera, tyre-pressure monitoring and automatic parking assistance.

The sedan will also feature Level 2 advanced driver assistance systems, adding features designed to assist the driver with functions such as maintaining speed, lane positioning and monitoring surrounding traffic.

Expected Pricing And Rivals

As a CBU model, the Superb is expected to occupy a premium position in Skoda’s India line-up. Its expected price is in the region of Rs. 55 lakhs – Rs. 60 lakhs, although the final figure will be announced closer to the launch.

The sedan’s pricing could also be influenced by developments around the proposed India-European Union Free Trade Agreement. If import duties are reduced under the agreement when it takes effect, it could potentially improve the Superb’s price positioning.

The Toyota Camry is currently one of the key alternatives in this part of the sedan market. Whether the Superb can compete effectively will depend largely on its final pricing, equipment and ownership proposition.

For Skoda, the new model represents both the return of the Superb to India and the reintroduction of a diesel powertrain to its passenger vehicle range after a prolonged absence.

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Skoda Auto India has updated the Slavia for 2026 with a fresh design, more features and an important new automatic transmission. Most of these updates were first seen on the updated Kushaq and have now made their way to the Slavia as well.

The biggest change is under the hood. The 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine is now available with either a 6-speed manual or a new 8-speed torque-converter automatic. The more powerful 1.5-litre TSI continues to be offered only with a 7-speed DSG automatic.

The Slavia also gets a sharper look. The front bumper has been redesigned and the car gets new LED headlamps and fog lamps. The grille has also been updated, with a chrome strip that flows towards the DRLs. New 16-inch alloy wheels add to the refreshed look.

At the rear, the changes are more noticeable. The new LED tail lamps get a different internal design and sequential turn indicators. A textured slatted strip now runs between the tail lamps, with the Škoda lettering placed in the centre. This gives the rear a connected look without making the Slavia look completely different.

Inside, the Slavia gets a major technology upgrade. Higher variants now get a large 26.03-cm fully digital Virtual Cockpit with turn-by-turn navigation, while the new 25.6-cm touchscreen infotainment system gets inbuilt connectivity and an AI Assistant powered by Google Cloud.

Comfort has also been given a big boost. The Slavia now gets a rear-seat massage function, which Škoda calls a first-in-segment feature. The front seats are electrically adjustable and ventilated, so both the driver and front passenger get more ways to find a comfortable seating position.

Another major addition is the 360-degree Area View Camera. It is available on the Signature, Sportline, Prestige and Monte Carlo variants, while the lower Classic and Classic+ variants get a rear-view camera.

The updated Slavia is available in six variants: Classic, Classic+, Signature, Sportline, Prestige and Monte Carlo. Different variants get different 16-inch alloy wheel designs, while the Monte Carlo gets a sportier look with black alloys and red detailing.

Skoda has also added two new colours to the Slavia range: Arctic Silver and Cappuccino Beige. However, deliveries of Cappuccino Beige will begin only from December 2026.

On the safety front, the Slavia continues with six airbags and more than 25 safety features as standard. It also retains its five-star Global NCAP safety rating.

However, one feature that is still missing is ADAS. Despite getting a 360-degree camera and several new technology features, the updated Slavia does not get advanced driver assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist or autonomous emergency braking.

Overall, Skoda has not made major changes to the Slavia’s basic formula. Instead, the company has focused on making it more feature-rich, more comfortable and easier to live with. The new 8-speed automatic should also make the 1.0 TSI a more attractive option for buyers who want an automatic without moving up to the 1.5-litre engine.

With SUVs continuing to dominate the Indian market, the updated Slavia remains one of the few premium sedans that focuses on driving, comfort and a more traditional three-box design while adding the features today’s buyers expect.

Pre-bookings for the new Skoda Slavia have commenced, deliveries start from the festive season. Price announcement will be done in a few weeks.

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The two-wheeler industry is raising concerns over the proposed introduction of Real Driving Emissions (RDE) testing as part of India’s upcoming BS7 emission regulations. The Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) is expected to seek changes to the proposed testing approach for motorcycles and scooters.

RDE testing is intended to measure emissions from vehicles under real-world driving conditions rather than solely through laboratory tests. The process typically uses Portable Emissions Measurement Systems (PEMS), which are fitted to the vehicle during testing to record emissions on the road.

While RDE testing is already used in several automotive markets, two-wheeler manufacturers have questioned whether the current testing methodology is suitable for lighter vehicles.

Industry Raises PEMS Weight Concerns

One of the key concerns relates to the additional weight of PEMS equipment. Unlike passenger cars, motorcycles and scooters have considerably lower overall mass and payload capacity. Manufacturers argue that carrying a relatively heavy measurement system could alter the vehicle’s operating conditions and potentially influence its emissions during a test.

According to reports, a study commissioned or conducted by two-wheeler manufacturers examined the impact of adding around 120 kg of PEMS equipment. The findings reportedly showed that average carbon monoxide (CO) emissions increased by about 26%, while nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions rose by approximately 66% when the additional equipment was fitted.

The industry is using these findings to argue that test results could be affected by the measurement setup itself. However, the reported study and its methodology would need to be assessed independently to determine how representative the findings are of actual BS7 testing conditions.

SIAM Expected To Suggest An Alternative

Rather than opposing emissions testing altogether, SIAM is reportedly considering alternative procedures specifically for two-wheelers. The industry body is expected to present its proposals to regulators as discussions around BS7 implementation progress.

One possibility being discussed is introducing a revised RDE methodology for two-wheelers as part of a subsequent phase of BS7, potentially BS7 Phase II. Such an approach could allow regulators and manufacturers additional time to establish a testing procedure that accounts for the size, weight and operating characteristics of two-wheelers.

Balancing Real-World Emissions And Practical Testing

The debate highlights a broader challenge in tightening vehicle emission standards. Real-world testing can provide a more representative picture of emissions than laboratory-only procedures, but the testing equipment and methodology also need to account for differences between vehicle categories.

For two-wheelers, factors such as vehicle weight, rider load, engine capacity and operating conditions can have a relatively significant impact on emissions. Any RDE framework would therefore need to balance the objective of measuring real-world performance with a test setup that does not substantially alter the conditions being measured.

The final BS7 requirements and testing procedures for two-wheelers will depend on the regulatory process and consultations between the government, testing agencies and the automotive industry.

Source

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Something shifted in the Indian car market over the last decade. Buyers now walk in with checklists that would have looked absurd in 2012. Ventilated seats. Level 2 driver assistance. Panoramic sunroof. A 360-degree camera.
None of this mattered when the first crossovers landed. The mid-size SUV changed the reference point for what a family car should include, and once expectations climb, they rarely come back down.

Ground clearance was never the real selling point

Most people assume buyers moved to SUVs because of bad roads. That’s only half the story. Broken tarmac and unmarked speed breakers helped, sure, but the stronger pull was seating position and genuine space.

A high hip point makes traffic easier to read. Getting in and out is kinder on older knees. Carmakers spotted this early and started loading the segment with equipment that hatchbacks at similar prices never got.

That’s why a used Hyundai Creta still pulls serious attention years after it left the showroom. The Creta set the template: automatic climate control, a usable touchscreen, connected car features, and a diesel option that made sense for high-kilometre highway users. Once one carmaker draws that line, rivals either match it or lose the room.

How the feature cycle actually moves

Features don’t appear because engineers feel generous. They arrive through a predictable pattern. A challenger launches with something eye-catching – a sunroof, wireless charging, ambient lighting.

The established player waits for the mid-life facelift, adds the feature, and usually goes one better. Within the next generation, that same feature slides from the top trim down to the mid trim, and after that it drops into the segment below. That is exactly how sunroofs ended up in compact hatchbacks.

Buyers benefit from this, and they also get trained by it. Once a mid-spec SUV offers a reversing camera as standard, no buyer will accept parking sensors alone. The floor rises permanently.

This is why older cars feel dated far faster than they wear out mechanically. A well-maintained 2016 SUV can still drive beautifully while feeling ancient inside, purely because cabin technology aged in dog years while the engine did not.

Safety stopped being an optional extra

Not always the case. For years, airbag counts and stability control sat locked behind the most expensive variant, and most buyers happily skipped them to cut costs. Independent crash testing changed that. It gave families something concrete to compare, and the conversation moved away from colour choices toward structural ratings.

The practical effect shows up in how people shop for older cars now. Buyers ask which model year received electronic stability control as standard. They check whether the variant in front of them has six airbags or two. They look for hill-hold assist on automatics, and they want to know if the seatbelt reminder covers the rear bench.

Someone comparing a 2nd hand Kia Seltos across trims will find meaningful safety gaps between a base petrol manual and a higher variant from the same year, which is precisely why variant identification matters more than badge recognition.

Verifying this is straightforward. The variant name sits on the boot badge, but badges get swapped. The reliable route is matching the chassis number against the manufacturer’s records or checking the original invoice, since equipment lists are tied to variant codes rather than trim stickers. I have seen buyers discover mid-inspection that what they were told was an HTX was actually an HTE. Worth checking.

The trade-offs nobody prints in the brochure

Kerb weight went up across the board. Heavier bodies need larger brakes, wider tyres, and stronger suspension components, and every one of those costs more to replace. A set of 17-inch tyres with low-profile sidewalls will cost considerably more than the 14-inch rubber on an older hatchback, and those thin sidewalls transmit potholes straight into the cabin. Fuel efficiency suffers too, particularly in stop-start city traffic where extra mass works against every gearchange.

Then there are the features themselves. Panoramic sunroofs look impressive at the showroom. What fewer people mention is that they come with drain channels that clog around year three. Touchscreen-controlled climate systems look clean in photos and become genuinely distracting to operate while moving. Electric seat motors and soft-close mechanisms are pleasant until one fails outside warranty, and they do fail.

Buying the biggest thing you can afford simply because the segment says you should is rarely the right call. The real question is which features will actually get used every week, and which ones exist to win showroom arguments.
Buyers who answer that honestly usually end up with a lower-cost ownership path and far less regret in year four. Expectations have risen for good reasons. Applying them selectively is what separates a smart purchase from an expensive one.

The post How Modern SUVs Rewrote What Car Buyers Expect appeared first on MotorBeam.

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has proposed extending the prescribed age limit for battery-operated, hydrogen fuel-based and natural gas-powered vehicles by five years. The proposal is part of draft amendments to the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989.

The draft rules were issued on August 10, with the government inviting comments and suggestions from stakeholders within 30 days. The proposed changes will take effect only after they are formally notified in the Official Gazette.

The draft does not specify the revised maximum permissible age for each type of alternative-fuel vehicle. If implemented, the change could give operators running electric, hydrogen and CNG-powered fleets additional time before their vehicles reach the applicable age limit.

National Permits Proposed To Go Digital

MoRTH has also proposed changes to the way national permit authorisations are issued. Under the draft, applicants would have the option of obtaining a national permit authorisation electronically for a period of up to five years.

The proposed fee is Rs. 16,500 for each year of authorisation, with the amount to be deposited into the national permit account. Applications in Form 46 and authorisations in Form 47 would also be processed electronically under the proposed system.

Changes To Temporary Registration

The draft amendments include changes to temporary vehicle registration provisions. For a chassis without a body, temporary registration would continue to be valid for six months from the date of issue.

Where body construction takes longer than six months, or delays arise from circumstances beyond the vehicle owner’s control, the registering authority could extend the temporary registration in 30-day increments.

For fully built vehicles undergoing conversion into adapted vehicles, as well as vehicles being registered in a state different from the dealer’s location, the proposed validity period for temporary registration would be 45 days.

Automotive Component Manufacturers Could Get Trade Certificates

MoRTH has also proposed bringing certain automotive component manufacturers under the trade certificate framework. Eligibility would be linked to approval from the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research and involvement in research and development activities aimed at developing new automotive products.

More Vehicle Documentation To Be Digitised

The proposed amendments seek to further reduce manual data entry in vehicle-related processes. Information required in certain applications could be automatically retrieved from the VAHAN portal using a dealership authorisation certificate or vehicle registration number.

The revised forms would also include details such as GST registration number, PAN, Udyam Aadhaar and Corporate Identification Number, where applicable.

For vehicle owners, the proposed changes to Form 20 would include an Aadhaar-linked mobile number. Documents related to hire-purchase, leasing and hypothecation arrangements would also record relevant agreement or loan account numbers.

The proposed changes to Form 48 would require information relating to a vehicle’s registration, insurance, pollution under control and fitness certificates. Details of pending challans and any previous national permits would also be included.

The proposals are currently at the draft stage and stakeholders have 30 days to submit their comments and suggestions. The final provisions could therefore change before the amendments are officially notified.

Source

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Hero MotoCorp has filed a design patent in India for a new dual-purpose motorcycle, indicating that the company could be working on a more accessible offering in the adventure and off-road segment. While the patent does not reveal technical specifications or confirm production plans, it provides a clear look at the motorcycle’s styling and overall hardware.

The design suggests a lightweight, utilitarian motorcycle that appears to balance everyday commuting with light off-road capability. It also shares some visual similarities with the discontinued Hero Impulse while adopting design cues seen on the brand’s current XPulse range.

Rugged dual-purpose design

The patented motorcycle features a tall stance, slim bodywork and an upright riding position. Key design elements include a raised front mudguard, wire-spoke wheels and long-travel suspension, giving it a distinct dual-purpose appearance.

At the front, the motorcycle gets a compact headlamp housed within a sculpted cowl, along with a small visor that is expected to accommodate a digital instrument cluster. The fuel tank has a narrow profile, while the minimalist side panels reinforce its lightweight design philosophy.

The rear section includes a long single-piece seat, a substantial rear mudguard, a saree guard and a large tubular luggage rack, highlighting a focus on practicality alongside off-road usability.

Hardware details

The patent images indicate the use of conventional telescopic front forks with fork gaiters and a rear monoshock suspension setup. Disc brakes are fitted at both ends, although details regarding the braking system remain undisclosed. A single-channel ABS setup could be offered if the motorcycle is positioned as an entry-level model.

The motorcycle also features a tubular frame with an exposed single-cylinder engine and a bash plate underneath to protect the powertrain during off-road riding. The exhaust is routed along the right side of the motorcycle.

Expected positioning

Hero MotoCorp has not revealed any information about the motorcycle’s engine or specifications. However, industry speculation suggests it could be positioned below the XPulse 200 4V in the company’s line-up.

If launched, the motorcycle could use a smaller-capacity engine, potentially borrowing components from Hero’s existing 160cc platform to offer a more affordable entry point into the dual-purpose segment. However, these details remain unconfirmed.

What happens next?

It is important to note that filing a design patent does not necessarily confirm production plans. Manufacturers often register designs to protect intellectual property, and not every patented model reaches the market.

If Hero decides to commercialise the motorcycle, it would expand the brand’s presence in the growing dual-purpose segment by offering an alternative aimed at buyers seeking a simpler and more affordable adventure motorcycle.

The post Hero MotoCorp Patents New Dual-Purpose Motorcycle In India appeared first on MotorBeam.

Royal Enfield has launched the updated Continental GT 650 in India, with prices starting at Rs. 3,58,427 (ex-showroom). The café racer is now available in four colour options, with deliveries and retail sales beginning across Royal Enfield dealerships from August 14, 2026.

The 2026 Continental GT 650 gets a few styling and practical updates while retaining its familiar café racer design. It now features a black-painted instrument cowl, giving the front-end a sharper look, along with new LED trafficators. A USB Type-C fast charging port has also been added, making it easier to charge a smartphone while riding.

The Rocker Red colour has received a more significant visual update. It now gets a blacked-out engine and exhaust, along with cast alloy wheels. The Apex Grey continues with the blacked-out engine and cast alloy wheel setup, while the British Racing Green and Mr Clean versions retain the polished engine finish and traditional spoke wheels. The four colourways are also visible in the supplied images, including the red, green, grey and chrome-finished versions.

The updated Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 is priced as follows: (ex-showroom)

• Rocker Red – Rs. 3,58,427
• British Racing Green – Rs. 3,58,427
• Apex Grey – Rs. 3,80,921
• Mr Clean – Rs. 3,87,667

There are no mechanical changes. The Continental GT 650 continues with Royal Enfield’s 648cc, parallel-twin, air/oil-cooled engine producing 47 hp at 7150 rpm and 52.3 Nm of torque at 5250 rpm. The engine is paired with a six-speed gearbox.
The motorcycle continues to use a steel tubular double-cradle frame developed with Harris Performance. Suspension duties are handled by telescopic front forks and gas-charged twin rear shock absorbers.

The Continental GT 650 retains its sculpted fuel tank, committed riding position and classic café racer silhouette inspired by motorcycles from the 1950s and 1960s. The latest updates are therefore more about adding modern-day convenience and freshening up the design rather than changing the character of the motorcycle.

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Mercedes-Benz has unveiled an updated version of the C-Class, introducing design revisions, upgraded technology and revised powertrains that comply with upcoming Euro 7 emission standards. The facelift retains petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid engine options, with improvements aimed at enhancing both performance and efficiency.

The updated C-Class is also expected to arrive in India later this year or in early 2027. It is likely to continue with both petrol and diesel engine options for the Indian market.

Exterior design

The refreshed C-Class adopts styling cues inspired by the recently revealed electric C-Class. Key changes include redesigned headlamps featuring Mercedes’ signature three-pointed-star lighting elements, along with an illuminated grille.

While the overall silhouette remains familiar, the visual updates bring the combustion-powered C-Class closer to its electric counterpart. However, Mercedes has retained clear distinctions between the two models, with the ICE version featuring a lower stance and a more conventional roofline.

The revised styling also aligns the C-Class with the brand’s latest design language while maintaining its sporty character within the Mercedes sedan range.

Interior and features

Inside, Mercedes has made subtle but notable changes to improve usability. The updated steering wheel brings back physical controls for functions such as cruise control and audio adjustments, replacing some of the touch-sensitive interfaces seen previously.

The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 11.9-inch infotainment touchscreen have been retained but now operate on the fourth-generation MBUX system. The updated software integrates AI-powered voice assistance using ChatGPT, Google Gemini and Microsoft Bing, allowing the system to respond to more complex voice commands.

Engine and performance

Mercedes has revised the entire engine line-up to meet Euro 7 emission regulations. Petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid variants receive updates, including an electrically assisted turbocharger powered by the 48V mild-hybrid system. The setup is designed to improve throttle response by reducing turbo lag.

Power and torque outputs have also been increased across the range. The flagship C300e plug-in hybrid now offers an electric-only driving range of up to 114 km under the applicable test cycle.

Diesel-powered variants remain part of the global line-up, alongside conventional petrol models and plug-in hybrids.

Chassis updates

Mercedes has also revised the suspension setup with stiffer dampers. According to the company, the changes are intended to improve handling and agility while maintaining ride comfort during highway driving.

India launch expectations

The updated Mercedes-Benz C-Class is expected to be introduced in India later this year or in early 2027. While Mercedes-Benz India is yet to announce official specifications, the model is expected to continue offering both petrol and diesel engine options, similar to the outgoing version.

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India’s transition to E20 petrol has reignited discussions around ethanol-blended fuels, with experts arguing that the current debate extends beyond vehicle compatibility. While concerns over engine damage have gained traction online, several studies indicate that E20 does not significantly affect modern vehicles. However, there are renewed calls to reintroduce E10 petrol for older vehicles and to carefully evaluate any future move towards higher ethanol blends.

The discussion also highlights broader issues, including agricultural priorities, water usage and the long-term balance between food production and fuel security.

According to studies conducted in India and overseas, E20 petrol does not appear to cause additional engine wear in vehicles designed to operate with ethanol-blended fuel. Although ethanol contains less energy than conventional petrol, the resulting reduction in fuel efficiency is generally estimated at around 6-7 percent, rather than the substantially higher figures often circulated on social media.

Research has also shown that E20 can help reduce emissions such as carbon monoxide and unburnt hydrocarbons when compared to conventional petrol.

However, experts note that older carburetted two-wheelers, particularly those built before the BS4 emission norms, may face compatibility issues. These vehicles are unable to automatically adjust the air-fuel mixture for higher ethanol content, which could lead to hotter operating temperatures. In addition, ageing rubber seals and fuel system components may deteriorate faster when exposed to higher ethanol concentrations.

To address concerns surrounding older vehicles, some experts have suggested reintroducing E10 petrol alongside E20 at fuel stations. A lower ethanol blend could provide owners of older vehicles with an alternative while retrofit programmes gradually replace ethanol-sensitive components.

Supporters of this approach argue that offering both fuel grades would reduce compatibility concerns without requiring an immediate transition for millions of older vehicles still on Indian roads.

While E20 has become the current standard, experts are urging policymakers to carefully assess any future move towards blends such as E27 or E30.

One of the key concerns relates to agricultural land use. Grain-based ethanol production, particularly from maize, has increased significantly in recent years. Some analysts believe continued expansion could increase competition between fuel production and food crops, potentially affecting edible oil production and crop economics.

The discussion also extends to water consumption. Experts argue that irrigation-intensive crops grown specifically for ethanol production require closer scrutiny, particularly in regions where groundwater resources are already under pressure.

Supporters of the ethanol blending programme point out that it has helped reduce crude oil imports, supported rural incomes and improved the financial position of sugar mills by creating an additional market for agricultural feedstock.

At the same time, experts believe future policy decisions should consider a wider range of factors, including food security, agricultural sustainability, water availability and the long-term environmental impact of increasing ethanol production.

Several industry observers have suggested maintaining the current E20 blend while undertaking a comprehensive assessment of the economic and environmental implications before introducing higher ethanol percentages.

Source

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