The Hilux has always been known for its durability, strong diesel engine and excellent off-road ability. With this update, Toyota is also adding more comfort and technology for buyers who use it every day.

Key highlights

Fresh styling with a tougher look

The new Hilux gets a completely redesigned front section. It looks sharper and more modern than the current version.

Some of the expected exterior changes include:

• New honeycomb grille with Toyota lettering
• Slim LED headlamps
• New front bumper with larger skid plate
• Fresh alloy wheel design
• Squared wheel arches
• Updated LED tail lamps
• Revised rear bumper and tailgate styling

The pickup continues to use Toyota’s IMV body-on-frame platform, which is known for durability and strong off-road performance.

More premium cabin

Toyota is expected to give the Hilux a much more modern interior. The dashboard has been redesigned and gets larger displays along with several convenience features.

Expected cabin features include:

• Dual 12.3-inch screens
• Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Digital instrument cluster
• Wireless phone charger
• Ventilated front seats
• Powered front seats
• 360-degree camera
• Physical buttons for climate and off-road controls
• New steering wheel and centre console

The cabin is expected to feel more premium while still offering the practical layout that Hilux buyers prefer.

Diesel engine likely to continue

Toyota is not expected to introduce a new engine for the India-spec Hilux.

The pickup will most likely use the familiar 2.8-litre turbo diesel engine producing 204hp and up to 500Nm of torque. Buyers can expect both a six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic gearbox. The four-wheel-drive system with a low-range transfer case is also expected to continue.

Reports also suggest Toyota could introduce the 48V mild-hybrid system already available with the Fortuner Neo Drive. If launched, it could improve fuel efficiency and provide smoother performance.

Globally, the new Hilux can tow up to 3,500kg and carry a payload of up to one tonne.

Safety expected to get a major upgrade

Toyota is likely to offer a wider list of safety equipment with the new Hilux.

Expected safety features include:

• Six airbags
• Vehicle Stability Control
• Hill Assist Control
• Downhill Assist Control
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Autonomous Emergency Braking
• Lane Departure Warning
• Blind Spot Monitoring
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert
• Emergency Driving Stop System

Expected price

The current Toyota Hilux is priced between Rs 28.52 lakh and Rs 36 lakh (ex-showroom). With the new design, extra features and additional safety equipment, the new-generation model is expected to cost slightly more.

The new model is priced at COP 20,390,000 (around Rs 5.78 lakh). It sits above the standard Dominar 400 Touring in Colombia.

Price Comparison

New Look With Exclusive Styling

The Terra version gets its own identity with changes that are not offered on the regular motorcycle.

Some of the visual updates include:

• Matte brown paint finish
• Topographic style graphics
• 3D Dominar logo on the fuel tank
• 400 side decal
• Block pattern dual purpose tyres

These changes give the motorcycle a tougher appearance while keeping the familiar Dominar design.

Touring Accessories Added From Factory

Apart from the cosmetic updates, Bajaj has also added a few useful accessories for riders who travel frequently.

The Dominar 400 Terra comes with:

• Saddle stays for mounting luggage
• Rear luggage rack
• Dual purpose tyres for better grip on mixed surfaces

These additions make carrying luggage easier during long rides and also improve confidence on rough roads.

Engine And Hardware

The Colombian version continues with the older 373cc liquid cooled single cylinder engine.

Engine specifications are listed below:

• 373cc liquid cooled engine
• 40 PS of power
• 35 Nm of torque
• Six speed gearbox
• Slipper clutch

The motorcycle continues to use the same mechanical package that has already been available in the Colombian market.

Different From The India Spec Dominar 400

There are a few notable differences between the motorcycle sold in Colombia and the latest Indian version.

• Colombia gets the older 373cc engine
• India now uses a 349cc engine
• Colombian model gets the older LCD instrument console
• India gets Bluetooth connectivity
• Turn by turn navigation is available on the Indian bike
• Both versions continue with dual channel ABS and LED lighting

Bajaj introduced the smaller 349cc engine in India after updating the motorcycle to comply with the latest GST regulations.

The timing is interesting because Kia is enjoying strong sales in India and is now preparing to expand its electric and hybrid lineup.

What The New Teaser Suggests

The teaser hints at two different powertrain options.

• HEV stands for Hybrid Electric Vehicle
• BEV stands for Battery Electric Vehicle
• Kia has not confirmed the names yet
• The Syros EV and Sorento Hybrid are the strongest possibilities

Both vehicles have already been spotted testing on Indian roads, making their arrival look much closer.

Kia Syros EV Could Arrive First

Kia has already confirmed that the Syros EV will make its debut this month. It will become the brand’s fourth electric vehicle in India after the EV6, EV9 and Carens Clavis EV.

The electric SUV is expected to keep the same tall and boxy design as the regular Syros while getting a few EV-specific changes.

Expected highlights include:

• Closed front grille
• New alloy wheels
• Charging port on the front fender
• Exclusive colour options
• EV badges

The cabin is also expected to offer most of the features seen on the petrol model.

These may include a large 30-inch Trinity display, panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera, dashcam, connected car technology and Level 2 ADAS.

Expected Battery Options

DC fast charging is also expected to be offered.

Sorento Hybrid Could Become Kia’s New Flagship

The second vehicle teased by Kia is expected to be the Sorento Hybrid. Test mules have already been seen in India, suggesting development is moving ahead.

The Sorento will sit above the Seltos in Kia’s lineup and will be offered as a premium three-row SUV.

Expected features include:

• Six and seven-seat layouts
• Panoramic sunroof
• Bose sound system
• Ventilated front seats
• Multi-zone climate control
• Head-up display
• Level 2 ADAS

Internationally, the Sorento is available with hybrid and plug-in hybrid options. India is expected to receive a hybrid version, while a plug-in hybrid cannot be ruled out.

The hybrid setup could deliver around 261 bhp and 350 Nm, making it one of the most powerful SUVs in its segment.

Expected Rivals

The Syros EV is expected to compete with:

• Tata Nexon EV
• Mahindra XUV 3XO EV

The Sorento Hybrid is likely to take on:

• Skoda Kodiaq
• Volkswagen Tayron R-Line
• Toyota Fortuner
• Jeep Meridian
• MG Majestor

Expected Pricing

Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale Engine And Gearbox

The biggest talking point is the new transmission setup. Although it feels like a proper manual, there is no mechanical connection between the gear lever and gearbox.

Key details

• 6.5 litre naturally aspirated V12 petrol engine
• 830 hp and 678 Nm
• Rev limit of 9,500 rpm
• Eight speed dual clutch transmission underneath
• Works like a six speed manual through Manuale By Wire
• Three pedal layout with clutch pedal
• Can also be driven in full automatic mode

Drivers can perform manual gear changes, use heel and toe techniques, and even stall the car if the clutch is not used correctly. If traffic gets tiring, a button lets the gearbox return to automatic mode.

Performance Stays Just As Quick

Even with the manual style setup, Ferrari has not sacrificed performance.

Ferrari says the sprint from 0 to 100 kmph takes just 2.9 seconds, matching the regular 12Cilindri. The top speed also stays above 340 kmph.

Small Design Changes Make It Special

The Manuale looks familiar but gets several exclusive touches. Some of the changes include:

• Manuale badges on the front fenders
• Laser etched Ferrari side logos with silver finish
• New forged five spoke alloy wheels
• Pinstripe finish on the front splitter and rear winglets
• Optional racing inspired exterior livery
• Available in 25 exterior colours

The car still keeps the long bonnet, slim headlights, quad exhausts, active rear winglets and carbon fibre elements seen on the standard model.

Cabin Gets A Proper Manual Experience

Inside, the Manuale gets a completely different feel. Ferrari has redesigned the centre console to fit a classic style aluminium gear lever with an open gate pattern. Buyers can choose between silver or black finish for the gear knob.

Other interior highlights include:

• New gated gear shifter
• Three pedal layout with clutch pedal
• Comfort or Racing seats
• Six groove seat pattern inspired by the six speed gearbox
• Triple screen dashboard carried over from the standard model

The gear lever also shows whether the car is running in manual or automatic mode.

Limited Numbers And Seven Year Support

Ferrari will build only 1,499 examples of the 12Cilindri Manuale. Buyers also receive Ferrari’s seven year maintenance package, covering scheduled servicing with genuine parts through the company’s official dealer network.

The latest test vehicle also looks much closer to production, suggesting that the launch may not be very far away.

Expected Size And Positioning

The BE 7 is expected to sit above the BE 6 in Mahindra’s electric lineup. It is likely to offer more cabin space along with a stronger road presence.

Design Gets A Premium Touch

Even under camouflage, many styling details can be seen. The production model appears to stay close to the BE.07 concept shown earlier.

Some visible design highlights include:

• Frameless doors
• Flush pop-out door handles
• Boxy SUV shape
• Strong shoulder line
• Large alloy wheels
• Sloping roofline
• Chunky wheel arch cladding
• Rear spoiler with hidden rear wiper
• Vertical LED tail lamp layout

The front also appears to have C-shaped LED lighting elements, although the final headlamp design is still covered.

Cabin Could Borrow Features From XEV Models

The interior has not been fully revealed yet. However, the test vehicle appears to use seats similar to the XEV 9e and XEV 9S. Mahindra is also expected to introduce a different dashboard layout for the BE 7.

Expected features include:

• Triple 12.3-inch screen setup
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Harman Kardon sound system
• Panoramic sunroof
• Dual-zone climate control
• Powered and ventilated front seats
• Wireless phone charger
• Ambient lighting
• Electronic parking brake
• Level 2+ ADAS
• 360-degree camera
• Multiple airbags

Battery And Performance

Mahindra is expected to use the same battery packs already seen in its latest INGLO-based SUVs.

The expected options are:

• 59 kWh battery
• 70 kWh battery
• 79 kWh battery

Rear-wheel-drive versions are likely to be offered first. There is also a chance that Mahindra could introduce an all-wheel-drive version later. The larger battery pack could deliver a claimed driving range of around 600 km, while real-world figures may be closer to 500 km.

What Makes It Different?

The frameless doors make the BE 7 stand apart from other mass-market SUVs. This feature is mostly found on premium luxury models and could make the BE 7 one of the most distinctive electric SUVs in its price range. Along with its upright styling and larger dimensions, the SUV looks ready to attract buyers looking for something different from regular electric SUVs.

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The motorcycle is expected to be designed, developed and manufactured in India. It could also be exported to several international markets, making India an important production hub for Yamaha’s newest sports bike.

Expected Yamaha R2 details

More performance than the R15

Yamaha is expected to use a new 200cc single-cylinder engine that may be based on the existing 155cc motor found in the R15. With the extra capacity, buyers can expect stronger acceleration and more relaxed highway riding.

The engine is also likely to deliver smooth performance along with good fuel efficiency, something Yamaha motorcycles are already known for.

Premium hardware could continue

The R2 is expected to borrow several components from the R15 V4. Expected equipment includes:

• Deltabox frame
• USD front forks
• Rear monoshock suspension
• Disc brakes at both ends
• Dual-channel ABS
• Assist and slipper clutch
• Traction control system
• Quick shifter
• Full LED lighting

A fully digital TFT instrument console with Bluetooth connectivity is also likely. Riders may get access to navigation support, call alerts, message notifications, maintenance updates and riding information through Yamaha’s Y-Connect application.

Where the R2 will fit

The new motorcycle is expected to be positioned between the R15 and Yamaha’s larger capacity sport bikes.

The R15, MT-15 and XSR155 are likely to continue on sale, while the R2 will offer an upgrade for riders who want more power without moving to a much bigger motorcycle.

Its expected price of around Rs 2.15 lakh (ex-showroom) also places it close to the KTM RC 200 while staying slightly below it.

Rivals In The Segment

Once launched, the Yamaha R2 is expected to compete with:

• Bajaj Pulsar RS200
• KTM RC 200
• Hero Karizma XMR 210

The offers are available across the Virtus range for a limited period through Volkswagen dealerships across India.

Anniversary Benefits For Buyers

Customers purchasing the Volkswagen Virtus can now avail several purchase schemes.

• Buy Now, Pay Later finance option
• Loyalty benefits for existing customers
• Special anniversary offers
• Exclusive schemes for doctors and chartered accountants

These benefits are available across different variants of the sedan.

Virtus Success In India

Volkswagen has shared a few interesting numbers to mark the occasion.

The company also revealed that buyers continue to prefer the GT variants and automatic gearbox options. These versions have remained among the most popular choices since the sedan was introduced.

Volkswagen Thanks Customers

Speaking about the milestone, Nitin Kohli, Brand Director, Volkswagen India, said the company is proud to celebrate four years of the Virtus in India. He added that the achievement reflects the trust customers have shown in the brand and the popularity of the sedan. He also thanked existing owners and said the anniversary offers are a way of welcoming more customers to the Volkswagen family.

Volkswagen Line-up In India

Volkswagen currently sells the following models in the Indian market.

• Virtus
• Taigun
• Tiguan R-Line
• Tayron R-Line
• Golf GTI

The Virtus continues to be one of the company’s strongest volume products in India.

Facelift On The Way

The Volkswagen Virtus is also expected to receive a facelift in the coming months. Test mules have already been spotted on Indian roads.

The updated sedan is likely to get a revised front design, new LED lighting elements, refreshed alloy wheels, an updated digital cockpit and new interior finishes. The existing 1.0-litre TSI and 1.5-litre TSI turbo petrol engines are expected to continue. Reports also suggest that the 1.0-litre engine could receive a new automatic gearbox

The Hypevolt-R is Keeway’s first performance-focused electric scooter for the Indian market. It will be sold in Crystal White and Platinum Grey. In some international markets, this scooter is known as the ezi Hypevolt, and the India-spec model also carries ezi branding.

Keeway Hypevolt-R: Price And Key Details

Bold Styling With A Different Layout

Unlike a regular step-through scooter, the Hypevolt-R gets a centre spine running through the middle. Both the rider and pillion seats are flat, making it practical for daily use.

The front gets vertically stacked projector LED headlamps mounted on the apron. There is no handlebar cowl, while the 5-inch TFT display is fixed on the front panel. At the rear, the short tail section, LED tail lamp and tyre hugger give the scooter a motorcycle-inspired look.

The scooter rides on 14-inch alloy wheels with 100/80 front and 120/70 rear tyres. It also gets 130 mm ground clearance and a 770 mm seat height.

Battery, Motor And Performance

Power comes from a mid-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor that develops 12 kW of peak power.

Keeway claims:

• 0-40 kmph in 2.3 seconds
• Top speed of 115 kmph
• IDC-certified range of 180 km
• Eco, Normal and Sport riding modes
• 30-degree climbing ability

The dual removable battery pack has a combined capacity of 5 kWh. Owners can charge the batteries on or off the scooter. Charging from 0 to 80 percent takes around three hours.

Features And Safety

Keeway has packed the Hypevolt-R with several convenience and safety features. Some of the major highlights include:

• 5-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity
• Screen projection and navigation support
• Keyless Go
• Reverse mode
• USB Type-A and Type-C charging ports
• 27-litre under-seat storage
• Dual-channel ABS
• Traction Control System
• Hill Hold Control
• Hill Descent Control
• Intelligent Cruise Control
• Blind Spot Detection
• Rear reverse camera
• Telescopic front forks
• Five-step adjustable rear suspension

Company Statement

Vikas Jhabakh, Managing Director of Keeway India, said the Hypevolt-R has been developed for customers looking for performance, technology, design and everyday usability in one electric scooter. He added that the new model represents an important step for the brand’s electric mobility plans in India.

Renault Kwid Price List

The updated Kwid is now available in just two variants. Buyers can choose between manual and AMT gearbox options.

Customers booking the Climber variant through Renault’s online platform can also get it at an effective price of Rs 4.99 lakh for the manual version and Rs 5.46 lakh for the AMT.

Fresh Design Details

The overall shape of the Kwid continues to look familiar, but Renault has added a few small updates across the hatchback.

Some of the visible changes include:

• New Renault 2D and 3D badges
• Fresh dual-tone wheel covers
• Updated Kwid lettering at the rear
• Kiger-inspired three-spoke steering wheel
• Black roof and white ORVMs on Climber variant
• Slightly revised tail lamp detailing

The SUV-like styling, roof rails, LED DRLs, chunky body cladding and 184 mm ground clearance continue to be part of the package.

Cabin and Features

The dashboard layout is similar to before, but the new steering wheel gives the cabin a slightly different look. Renault has also continued with the same practical layout and equipment list.

Features include:

• 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Digital instrument cluster
• Manual air conditioner
• Rear parking camera
• Rear parking sensors
• Power windows
• Steering-mounted controls
• Remote keyless entry
• Electrically adjustable ORVMs
• 279-litre boot space

Safety Gets Better

One of the biggest additions is improved occupant protection. The Climber variant now comes with six airbags, while the Evolution variant gets dual airbags.

Other safety equipment includes:

• ABS with EBD
• Electronic Stability Control
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
• Hill Start Assist on AMT variants
• Seatbelt reminders
• Three-point seatbelts

Engine and CNG Option

Power comes from the same 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine producing 69 PS and 92.5 Nm. Buyers can pick either a five-speed manual gearbox or a five-speed AMT.

Renault is also offering an authorised CNG retrofit kit for manual variants at Rs 70,450, installed through authorised workshops.

Rivals

The Renault Kwid continues to compete with:

• Maruti Alto K10
• Maruti S-Presso
• Maruti Celerio

Recently captured spy shots show a heavily camouflaged Octavia Estate test mule. While the overall shape remains familiar, the front, rear and cabin appear to be getting a noticeable refresh.

Exterior Changes Could Match New Skoda Models

The latest prototype gives a good idea of what Skoda is planning.

The grille looks shorter than before and appears closer to the design seen on Skoda’s latest SUVs. The headlights keep a similar shape but feature a fresh daytime running light pattern. The front bumper also gets redesigned air intakes with slim vertical elements.

At the back, the camouflage hides most details, though new tail lamp graphics and a cleaner bumper design can still be noticed.

Cabin May Receive More Than Cosmetic Changes

Spy photographers managed to capture a few images of the interior as well. The dashboard appears to have been revised, while the digital instrument cluster looks slightly different from the current model.

The touchscreen remains free standing, though it is expected to receive updated software with smoother operation. Skoda may also introduce new cabin materials, fresh upholstery options and a revised centre console to give the interior a newer feel.

Engine Options May Continue With New Additions

Skoda has not revealed any technical details yet, but most of the existing engines are likely to continue.

Expected powertrain choices include:

• 1.5 litre TSI petrol engine
• 2.0 litre TSI petrol engine
• 2.0 litre TDI diesel engine in selected markets
• Hybrid and plug in hybrid versions could also be introduced

The exact specifications are expected to be announced closer to its official debut.

What Happens Next?

This second facelift suggests Skoda plans to keep the current Octavia in its global portfolio for a few more years. The latest updates should help the car match the brand’s newer design language while offering buyers a fresher look and a more modern cabin.

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Also Read – Skoda Kodiaq RS Launched In India At Rs 66.99 Lakh