Kia India has announced a price revision across its entire vehicle portfolio, with new prices set to come into effect from July 1, 2026. The company stated that the increase will be up to 2 percent, depending on the model and variant.

According to Kia, the decision has been taken in response to higher input costs and rising operational expenses. The automaker noted that while prices are being adjusted, it aims to continue offering a competitive value proposition across its range of products.

The exact quantum of the increase will vary across the lineup. Kia currently sells a mix of locally manufactured and imported vehicles in India. Its locally produced portfolio includes the Sonet, Syros, Seltos, Carens Clavis and the recently introduced Carens Clavis EV.

At the premium end, the Carnival, EV6 and EV9 are imported as completely built-up units (CBUs). These models cater to niche segments and are positioned significantly above Kia’s mass-market offerings.

Kia’s current range starts with the Sonet, priced from Rs. 7.33 lakh (ex-showroom), while the Carens Clavis EV tops the locally assembled lineup at Rs. 25 lakh. Among the imported models, the Carnival is priced at Rs. 59.45 lakh, the EV6 at Rs. 67.98 lakh and the flagship EV9 at Rs. 1.3 crore (all prices ex-showroom).

The announcement follows a broader trend in the Indian automotive industry, with several manufacturers revising prices in recent months to offset increasing production and operating costs. Customers planning to purchase a Kia vehicle may consider making their bookings before the revised prices come into effect next month.

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The Delhi government has unveiled a new winter air quality management strategy aimed at reducing pollution levels during the city’s most challenging months. The framework introduces a series of measures that will come into effect ahead of the winter season, including restrictions on older commercial vehicles and higher parking charges.

Under the plan, non-BS VI commercial vehicles registered outside Delhi will not be permitted to enter the national capital between November 1, 2026, and January 31, 2027. The restriction, however, will not apply to CNG-powered vehicles, electric vehicles, emergency service vehicles, or those operating for government-related duties.

Another key proposal involves linking fuel purchases to emissions compliance. According to the government, only vehicles carrying a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC) will be eligible to refuel at petrol pumps within Delhi. While the policy has been announced, authorities are yet to clarify the exact duration for which this requirement will remain in force.

To discourage excessive use of private vehicles during the winter months, parking fees at authorised facilities across the city will be increased. The revised charges will be applicable from November 1, 2026, until February 28, 2027.

The broader air quality management framework also includes staggered office timings, stricter enforcement against open burning of waste and biomass, and enhanced monitoring of construction activities and dust-generating operations. The government says the measures are being announced well in advance to allow residents and businesses sufficient time to prepare.

Delhi experiences a sharp deterioration in air quality during winter due to a combination of local emissions and seasonal atmospheric conditions. Authorities expect the new measures to help reduce pollution levels and improve overall air quality during the period when the city typically records some of its highest pollution readings of the year.

Source

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Harley-Davidson and Hero MotoCorp are reportedly exploring a broader collaboration that could see jointly developed entry-level motorcycles manufactured in India and sold in international markets. The move would build on the existing partnership between the two companies, which has already resulted in products such as the Harley-Davidson X440 and Hero Mavrick 440.

The companies are working on additional models aimed at strengthening their presence in the premium motorcycle segment. One of the upcoming products is expected to be the Harley-Davidson Sprint, which is likely to debut later this year. More motorcycles could follow as part of the partnership’s future product roadmap.

Harley-Davidson, responding to queries regarding the collaboration, said Hero MotoCorp remains an important strategic partner and reiterated its intention to expand access to the brand in key markets. However, the company did not disclose specific details about future products or export plans.

Hero MotoCorp CEO Harshavardhan Chitale recently confirmed that more Harley-Davidson-branded motorcycles are scheduled for launch during the current financial year. He added that while the current focus remains on product development, any decision to sell these motorcycles outside India would ultimately be taken by Harley-Davidson based on market suitability.

The development aligns with Harley-Davidson’s recently announced product-led growth strategy. The American motorcycle manufacturer has outlined plans to introduce around 20 new models and variants over the next three years, largely based on existing platforms, in an effort to attract new customers and improve sales performance.

Globally, Harley-Davidson has faced declining retail volumes over the past several years, prompting the company to focus on expanding its product portfolio and improving market reach. Leveraging India as a manufacturing and development hub through its partnership with Hero MotoCorp could support these objectives.

For Hero MotoCorp, the collaboration forms part of its broader premium motorcycle strategy. The company is investing in dedicated premium manufacturing operations at its Neemrana facility in Rajasthan and expanding its premium retail network across the country. Harley-Davidson products are expected to play a key role in strengthening Hero’s position in higher-capacity motorcycle segments.

Harley-Davidson exited manufacturing operations in India in 2020 and subsequently entered into a licensing and distribution agreement with Hero MotoCorp. The partnership covers sales, service, parts distribution and the joint development of motorcycles for the Indian market.

The Harley-Davidson X440 was the first motorcycle to emerge from this collaboration and has since been joined by the Hero Mavrick 440, which shares its platform and core mechanical components. Together, the two motorcycles have helped Hero establish a presence in the growing mid-capacity motorcycle segment, where it now competes with established players such as Royal Enfield and Bajaj Auto.

If export plans materialise, the partnership could mark the next phase of the Harley-Davidson-Hero MotoCorp alliance, positioning India as a key manufacturing base for select Harley-Davidson motorcycles aimed at both domestic and international markets.

Source

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Royal Enfield has announced the final call for registrations for the 22nd edition of the iconic Himalayan Odyssey, set to flag off on June 27, 2026. This year’s edition is particularly special as it coincides with Royal Enfield’s 125th anniversary celebrations and will be the most expansive Himalayan Odyssey yet.

MotorBeam will also be a part of the 2026 Royal Enfield Himalayan Odyssey, bringing you updates and experiences directly from one of the most celebrated motorcycle expeditions in the country.

For the first time, Royal Enfield is offering three distinct ride formats, allowing riders to choose an expedition that best suits their experience level, riding style and available time.

The Himalayan Odyssey Original remains the flagship 16-day expedition, taking riders from Chandigarh through Himachal Pradesh, Zanskar and Ladakh before culminating at Umling La, one of the highest motorable roads in the world. The ride will host 150 participants across two batches.

For more experienced adventure riders, the newly introduced Himalayan Odyssey Explore offers a 10-day unsupported format where participants carry their own luggage and tackle challenging terrain with limited backup support. Group sizes are restricted to just 30 riders.

Meanwhile, the Nubra & Kargil Circuit follows a fly-in format beginning in Leh, combining riding with deeper cultural immersion across the region.

Since its inception in 1997, the Himalayan Odyssey has become a bucket-list ride for motorcyclists from around the world, traversing legendary mountain passes such as Khardung La and Baralacha La. Royal Enfield will continue its focus on responsible motorcycling through its #LeaveEveryPlaceBetter initiative, encouraging sustainable travel practices throughout the expedition.

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Nissan has released another teaser of its upcoming Tekton SUV ahead of its scheduled global debut on July 9. The midsize SUV will mark the brand’s return to a highly competitive segment in India following the discontinuation of the Nissan Kicks in 2023.

The latest teaser reveals additional styling details, including a full-width illuminated element integrated into the front grille. Previously showcased design cues such as connected LED lighting at both ends, prominent ‘TEKTON’ lettering on the bonnet and tailgate, and a muscular SUV stance continue to feature prominently. The SUV also appears to have multi-spoke alloy wheels, a roof-mounted spoiler and rear door handles integrated into the C-pillars.

At the rear, the Tekton gets C-shaped LED tail-lamps, a design element that appears to draw inspiration from Nissan’s larger global SUVs. In the teaser campaign, Nissan has also positioned the Tekton alongside the Patrol SUV, hinting at a possible family resemblance within its SUV line-up. The company has previously expressed interest in bringing the Patrol to India, although no official launch plans have been announced.

The Tekton is expected to share its underlying platform and powertrain options with the Renault Duster. Engine choices are likely to include a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol producing around 100 HP and a more powerful 1.3-litre turbo-petrol generating approximately 163 HP. Both engines are expected to be paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, while the 1.3-litre unit is likely to offer a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

There is also the possibility of a hybrid powertrain being introduced at a later stage, although Nissan has not confirmed any such plans for the Tekton yet.

Feature highlights are expected to include a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, panoramic sunroof, connected car technology and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), in line with segment expectations.

In terms of pricing, the Tekton is likely to be positioned close to the Renault Duster. Once launched, it will compete with established midsize SUVs such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Honda Elevate, Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun, Maruti Grand Vitara and the Tata Sierra.

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Force Motors has achieved a significant manufacturing milestone with the production of its 2,00,000th Mercedes-Benz engine at its Chakan plant near Pune. The achievement highlights the long-standing industrial partnership between the Indian automaker and the German luxury car brand.

The landmark engine is an M256 six-cylinder petrol unit, which has been fitted to a Mercedes-Benz GLS 450. The milestone underscores the scale of localised manufacturing operations that support Mercedes-Benz’s presence in India.

Force Motors has been associated with Mercedes-Benz for nearly three decades, having started engine manufacturing for the brand in 1997. Over the years, the partnership has expanded beyond powertrains, with Force Motors also producing axles for Mercedes-Benz passenger vehicles assembled in India.

The Chakan facility was established to meet Mercedes-Benz’s global manufacturing and quality standards. The plant plays a key role in supplying components and engines for vehicles produced for the Indian market.

Commenting on the achievement, Force Motors Managing Director Prasan Firodia said the milestone reflects the strength of the collaboration between the two companies and the consistent focus on manufacturing quality and engineering precision over the years.

The production of 200,000 engines also reflects the growing importance of India as a manufacturing base for global automotive brands. As localisation levels continue to increase, partnerships between domestic suppliers and international manufacturers are expected to play an increasingly important role in supporting production and supply chain requirements.

With nearly 30 years of collaboration behind them, Force Motors and Mercedes-Benz continue to strengthen their manufacturing relationship through local production of critical automotive components and powertrains.

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The Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) has urged authorities to reconsider the proposed restriction on new registrations of CNG-powered three-wheelers in Delhi-NCR, arguing that the move could have unintended consequences for both emissions reduction efforts and livelihoods dependent on the sector.

In a letter addressed to the Chairman of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), FADA’s Delhi chapter expressed concerns over the planned transition to an all-electric three-wheeler market in the region. The industry body has also recommended introducing a scrappage-linked replacement programme to encourage the retirement of older, higher-emission vehicles.

The CAQM recently directed that only electric L5-category three-wheelers be registered in Delhi from January 1, 2027. The mandate will be extended to high vehicle density districts such as Gurugram, Faridabad, Sonipat, Ghaziabad and Gautam Buddha Nagar from January 2028, followed by the remaining NCR districts from January 2029.

The commission stated that the decision is part of broader efforts to improve air quality in the region, with studies identifying road transport as a significant contributor to particulate emissions. An expert committee constituted by the CAQM had also recommended accelerating the adoption of electric three-wheelers.

However, FADA argues that restricting registrations of new CNG-powered autos may not immediately reduce emissions, as existing older vehicles will continue operating as long as their permits remain valid. According to the association, replacing ageing BS-IV and older three-wheelers with newer BS-VI-compliant CNG models or electric vehicles could deliver more immediate environmental benefits.

The dealers’ body has also highlighted the economic implications of the proposed shift. It noted that CNG auto-rickshaws continue to play a key role in last-mile transportation across Delhi-NCR while supporting the livelihoods of permit holders, dealerships, financiers and related businesses.

As an alternative, FADA has proposed a structured vehicle replacement programme that incentivises owners of older three-wheelers to transition to cleaner BS-VI CNG or electric alternatives. The association believes such an approach could help lower emissions while minimising disruption to affordable public transport services.

The discussion comes as policymakers continue to finalise the next phase of Delhi’s electric vehicle strategy. The draft Delhi EV Policy also includes proposals aimed at accelerating EV adoption across multiple vehicle segments, including three-wheelers and two-wheelers.

Whether regulators retain the proposed restrictions or incorporate industry feedback remains to be seen as consultations on the policy continue.

Source

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Formula 1 could eventually make a return to India, but the championship’s leadership has indicated that any comeback remains a long-term prospect rather than an immediate possibility.

Speaking to Indian broadcaster FanCode, Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali acknowledged the growing interest in bringing the sport back to the country. However, he stressed that several key elements must fall into place before a race can be added to the calendar.

According to Domenicali, Formula 1 is keen on re-establishing its presence in India, but factors such as securing suitable promoters, obtaining stakeholder support and ensuring the right commercial framework are critical before any plans can move forward. He suggested that a realistic timeline would be closer to five years rather than the near future.

The comments come amid renewed discussions around motorsport’s future in India. Reports have indicated that the Adani Group is exploring the possibility of acquiring the Buddh International Circuit (BIC), while government representatives have also expressed interest in bringing Formula 1 back to the country.

Earlier this year, Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya suggested that an Indian Grand Prix could potentially return by 2027. However, Formula 1 officials have previously indicated that such a timeline may be difficult to achieve given the complexities involved in organising a modern Grand Prix event.

India last hosted Formula 1 races at the Buddh International Circuit between 2011 and 2013. While the circuit received positive feedback from teams and drivers, the event was eventually dropped from the calendar due to a combination of financial and regulatory challenges.

Domenicali emphasised that any future Indian Grand Prix would require strong support from investors, promoters and government stakeholders. He noted that Formula 1 views India as an important market, but believes any return should be built on a sustainable foundation rather than being rushed.

There are signs of renewed motorsport activity at the Buddh International Circuit. The Uttar Pradesh government’s State Transformation Commission recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with AVW Global aimed at bringing MotoGP back to the venue. Plans to host rounds of the Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) have also been discussed.

Despite these developments, Formula 1 faces additional challenges. Hosting fees for Grand Prix events have increased significantly over the past decade, while the championship calendar has become increasingly crowded. Several established venues around the world are already sharing race slots on a rotational basis due to limited space on the schedule.

As a result, while interest in reviving the Indian Grand Prix appears to be growing, significant commercial, logistical and infrastructure-related hurdles remain before Formula 1 can realistically return to the country.

Source

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Porsche India has started accepting bookings for the 2026 911 GT3 and the vehicle is priced at Rs. 3,32,60,000/-. Customers looking to purchase the car can configure their vehicle at this link – Porsche 911 Configurator.

The Porsche 911 GT3 is powered by a 4.0-litre, 6-cylinder, NA petrol engine making 510 PS and 450 Nm. The vehicle has a top speed of 311 km/hr and it comes with a 7-speed PDK gearbox. The supercar gets Porsche Stability Management with two stages – ESC Off and ESC + TC Off. It is equipped with a double wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension. The car also gets rear axle steering with sport setup, PASM Sport suspension and Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus.

The 911 GT3 is offered with a ton of optional extras to enhance the exteriors, interiors and even the driving dynamics. There are a lot of different colour options, interior options and the likes, to make your 911 feel as exclusive as possible. The car that you see in the images here is something that I configured by adding accessories and options worth almost Rs. 58 lakh! Like it?

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Hero MotoCorp’s upcoming Xpulse 421 has been spotted testing once again, this time at the famous Khardung La pass in Ladakh. Known for its challenging terrain, steep climbs and high altitude, Khardung La is often where manufacturers put their motorcycles through some of the toughest real-world tests before launch.

The latest spy shots give us a better idea of what Hero’s biggest and most powerful adventure bike could look like. Even though the motorcycle is still covered in camouflage, it is clear that the Xpulse 421 is a significant step up from the current Xpulse range.

The bike gets a tall windscreen, a muscular fuel tank, hand guards and a long single-piece seat, giving it a proper adventure-touring stance. Compared to the smaller Xpulse models, the 421 looks larger, more premium and built for covering long distances while still being capable off-road.

The test bike also appears to be equipped with long-travel suspension, wire-spoke wheels and dual-purpose tyres, all of which are essential for tackling rough terrain. A large single disc at the front and a single disc setup at the rear will handle the braking but the box-type swingarm with mono shock suspension looks like major cost saving!

The biggest talking point, however, is the new engine. The Xpulse 421 is expected to be powered by an all-new 421cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder motor producing around 40-45 HP. This would make it the most powerful motorcycle in Hero’s lineup and place it right in the middle of the rapidly growing adventure bike segment.

Hero is also expected to pack the Xpulse 421 with modern features. Spy shots reveal a large TFT display, while reports suggest that the production bike could get ride modes, traction control, cruise control, smartphone connectivity and switchable ABS. Interestingly, dedicated cruise control buttons can already be seen on the test mule.

The motorcycle was first previewed through design sketches shown by Hero at EICMA, and since then it has been spotted testing multiple times across India. The latest Ladakh sighting suggests that development is progressing well and the motorcycle is moving closer to production.

Once launched, the Xpulse 421 will sit above the Xpulse 210 and become Hero’s flagship adventure motorcycle. It is expected to rival the likes of the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and KTM 390 Adventure, two bikes that currently dominate this space. While it could bring some serious challenge to the newly launched BMW F 450 GS as well.

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MINI has expanded its India portfolio with the launch of the Countryman C, priced at Rs. 47.5 lakhs (ex-showroom). The SUV becomes the most accessible version of the latest-generation Countryman range in the country and is assembled locally at BMW Group’s Chennai manufacturing facility.

The introduction of local assembly has significantly reduced the entry price of the new-generation Countryman, positioning it below the performance-oriented Countryman JCW All4, which continues to be offered as a fully imported model. The move also brings the SUV closer to established premium compact luxury SUVs in terms of pricing.

The Countryman C retains MINI’s distinctive styling language, featuring a more upright stance and cleaner design compared to its predecessor. Exterior highlights include an octagonal front grille, adaptive LED headlamps, redesigned matrix LED tail-lamps and configurable daytime running light signatures. The SUV rides on 19-inch alloy wheels and receives champagne-coloured accents across various exterior elements, including the grille surround and badges.

Dimensionally, the Countryman measures 4447 mm in length and has a wheelbase of 2692 mm. Ground clearance stands at 190 mm, while buyers can choose from multiple exterior paint options paired with a contrasting roof finish.

Inside, the cabin follows a minimalist design theme centred around Mini’s signature circular elements. The dashboard and door trims feature a textile finish, while electrically adjustable sports seats with Vescin upholstery are offered as standard. Dominating the dashboard is a circular 9.4-inch OLED touchscreen that handles infotainment and several vehicle functions.

The feature list includes a head-up display, Harman Kardon audio system, panoramic glass roof, wireless phone charging, powered front seats, 360-degree camera and parking assistance functions. The driver’s seat also gets a massage feature. Rear seat occupants benefit from sliding and reclining seats, allowing flexibility between passenger comfort and cargo space.

Practicality remains a key focus, with the Countryman offering a 505-litre boot that can be expanded to 1450 litres by folding the rear seats. Connected car technology, digital key functionality, ambient lighting and multiple drive modes further enhance the equipment package.

Safety features include several advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), such as forward collision warning, lane departure warning, driver attentiveness monitoring and reversing assist. The Countryman has also achieved a five-star rating in Euro NCAP crash testing.

Under the hood, the Countryman C is powered by a 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine producing 156 HP and 240 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission driving the front wheels. Mini claims a 0-100 km/hr acceleration time of 9.0 seconds and a top speed of 212 km/hr, while fuel efficiency is rated at 15.92 km/l.

With local assembly helping reduce costs, the Countryman C broadens MINI’s appeal in India by offering a more attainable entry point into the brand while retaining the premium positioning and character associated with the Countryman nameplate.

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Citroen has introduced the 2026 eC3X electric hatchback in India, with prices starting at Rs. 10.25 lakhs (ex-showroom). Alongside the update, the company has renamed the eC3 EV as the eC3X and added several new features while also lowering the entry price compared to the outgoing model.

The French carmaker is also offering the eC3X under a Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) programme. Under this scheme, the vehicle can be purchased at an initial price of Rs. 6.29 lakhs, with customers paying a battery subscription charge of Rs. 2.26 per kilometre.

The updated eC3X is available in three variants – Live, Live (O) and Shine. Externally, it receives projector LED headlamps, redesigned 15-inch dual-tone alloy wheels and electrically adjustable as well as foldable outside rear-view mirrors. The overall design remains largely unchanged, retaining its signature LED daytime running lamps, body cladding and SUV-inspired styling elements.

Inside the cabin, Citroen has introduced a new dual-tone blue-and-beige theme and upgraded the seats with leatherette upholstery. The feature list has also been expanded with the addition of a 7-inch digital driver’s display, wireless phone charger, auto-dimming inside rear-view mirror and a six-speaker JBL audio system. A dashcam is also available, although some of these additions are offered as accessories.

Safety equipment has been enhanced as well. The top-spec Shine variant now comes with six airbags, while lower variants get four airbags. Other features carried over include a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, rear parking camera, rear parking sensors and manual air conditioning.

Powering the eC3X is the same 29.2 kWh battery pack paired with a front-mounted electric motor producing 57 HP and 143 Nm of torque. While the powertrain remains unchanged, Citroen now claims a MIDC-certified driving range of 325 km, an increase of 79 km over the previous figure.

According to the company, the eC3X can accelerate from 0-60 km/h in 6.8 seconds and has a top speed of 107 km/hr. Charging the battery from 10-100 percent using an AC charger takes around 10.5 hours, while a DC fast charger can replenish it from 10-80 percent in under an hour.

With its revised pricing, improved equipment list and claimed range enhancement, the updated eC3X aims to strengthen Citroen’s position in the entry-level electric vehicle segment, where it competes with models such as the Tata Tiago EV and MG Comet EV.

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Hero MotoCorp has rolled out a limited-period promotional offer on its recently launched flex-fuel commuter motorcycles, the Splendor+ Flex Fuel and HF Deluxe Flex Fuel. Under the scheme, customers can avail a discount of Rs. 4000 on both models, with the offer remaining valid until July 2026.

Following the price reduction, the Splendor+ Flex Fuel is available at an effective ex-showroom price of Rs. 78,710, while the HF Deluxe Flex Fuel can be purchased for Rs. 68,792 (ex-showroom).

Both motorcycles are designed to operate on E85 fuel, which contains up to 85 percent ethanol blended with petrol. The move aligns with the government’s push towards higher ethanol adoption and reduced dependence on conventional fossil fuels.

Powering the two models is Hero MotoCorp’s 97.2cc single-cylinder engine. In the Splendor+ Flex Fuel, the engine delivers 8.44 BHP at 8000 RPM and 8.3 Nm of torque at 6000 RPM when running on E85 fuel. The motorcycles also feature the brand’s i3S idle stop-start technology along with a recalibrated engine control unit to support flex-fuel compatibility.

Hero MotoCorp has confirmed that the initial rollout of its flex-fuel motorcycles will be limited to Delhi and Maharashtra. The company is expected to gradually expand availability to additional markets across the country based on demand and infrastructure readiness.

With the latest discount offer, Hero appears to be aiming to improve awareness and adoption of flex-fuel technology in the commuter motorcycle segment while making the models more accessible to prospective buyers.

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Harley-Davidson has revised the pricing of its India-made X440 motorcycle lineup, with prices increasing across all variants. The latest adjustment sees the model range become costlier by between Rs. 1000 and Rs. 5000, depending on the version selected.

The entry-level X440 Vivid now carries a price tag of Rs. 2.35 lakhs (ex-showroom), reflecting an increase of Rs. 1000. The mid-spec X440 S has become Rs. 5000 more expensive and is now priced at Rs. 2.59 lakhs (ex-showroom). Meanwhile, the recently introduced X440 T also gets an increase of Rs. 5000, taking its ex-showroom price to Rs. 2.84 lakhs.

While the company has not officially detailed the reason behind the revision, rising input and production costs are understood to be among the key factors contributing to the latest price adjustment.

The X440 T, which joined the range in late 2025, distinguishes itself from the other variants through its unique styling elements and additional features. It comes equipped with ride-by-wire technology, switchable traction control and two riding modes, Road and Rain, offering a more feature-rich package.

Powering the entire X440 lineup is a 440cc, air-oil cooled, single-cylinder engine that develops 27 BHP and 38 Nm of torque. The motor is paired with a six-speed gearbox and remains unchanged despite the latest pricing update.

In the mid-size motorcycle segment, the Harley-Davidson X440 continues to compete with established rivals such as the Royal Enfield Classic 350, Triumph Speed 400 and Honda Hness CB350. Notably, the flagship X440 T is priced above each of these competitors, positioning it as the most premium offering among its immediate rivals.

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Maruti Suzuki has expanded its after-sales service portfolio with the introduction of pre-paid maintenance packages designed for both private and commercial vehicle customers. The new offering aims to provide greater cost predictability and convenience for owners throughout their vehicle ownership journey.

Called the Smart Maintenance Plan (SMP), the program can be purchased either at the time of buying a new vehicle or later through the company’s authorised service network. The plans are available to existing customers as well, allowing a broader section of vehicle owners to benefit from the initiative.

The maintenance packages come with several service options tailored to different customer requirements. These include labour-only coverage, combined parts and labour packages, maintenance plans for commercial vehicles, customer-requested service work and coverage for consumables such as engine oil and coolant.

Maruti Suzuki has also introduced an optional wear-and-tear protection component under selected plans. This additional coverage extends to parts that typically require replacement during regular vehicle usage, including clutch and brake components.

According to the company, customers opting for the pre-paid plans can receive a 10% reduction in labour charges, along with additional savings on eligible parts and consumables. Another key feature of the program is protection from future increases in service costs for items covered under the selected package.

The Smart Maintenance Plan is available across multiple tenure and mileage combinations. For private vehicle owners, coverage options range from 2 years or 20,000 km to as much as 10 years or 100,000 km. Commercial vehicle customers can choose plans extending up to 10 years or 160,000 km.

The launch reflects a growing trend among automakers to offer structured maintenance programs that help customers manage long-term vehicle ownership costs while encouraging regular servicing through authorised workshops.

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