The lap was completed by Porsche test driver Lars Kern, who also drove the earlier Taycan Turbo GT record car back in 2023. With the new Manthey package, the updated car finished the lap 12 seconds quicker than before. It was also faster than the YangWang U9 Xtreme by around four seconds.

This is also the first electric Porsche to receive a full Manthey performance package.

More power than before

The Manthey Kit does not just change the aerodynamics. Porsche has also made changes to the powertrain for extra performance.

• Total output now stands at 816 hp
• Peak torque goes up to 1,270 Nm
• Power increase of 27 hp over standard model
• Torque increase of 30 Nm

Porsche has updated the battery, pulse inverters and control systems to improve power delivery. The discharge current has also increased from 1,100 amps to 1,300 amps.

The car’s 10-second Attack Mode now gives more boost as well.

• Earlier boost output was 163 hp
• New boost output is 177 hp

These updates have helped the Taycan deliver stronger acceleration and better speed on long track sections.

Massive aerodynamic upgrades

A big part of the lap time improvement comes from the new aerodynamic package developed by Manthey.

The Taycan Turbo GT now gets:

• Larger rear wing with bigger end plates
• New front diffuser
• Redesigned rear diffuser with extended fins
• Larger underbody air guides
• Carbon rear wheel covers

All these changes have increased downforce heavily.

• Downforce rises from 95 kg to 310 kg at 200 kmph
• Total downforce touches 740 kg at top speed

Top speed has also increased slightly.

• New top speed is 310 kmph
• Around 5 kmph higher than before

According to Porsche, the extra downforce gives much better stability in high-speed corners and during braking.

Suspension and braking changes

Porsche has also retuned the suspension and chassis systems for track driving.

The updated car gets changes to:

• Porsche Active Ride suspension
• All-wheel drive system
• Rear axle steering
• Differential setup
• Steering calibration

The braking setup is now stronger too.

• 440 mm front brake discs
• 410 mm rear brake discs
• Performance brake pads included

These upgrades improve stopping power during aggressive driving.

Wider tyres and lighter wheels

The Manthey-spec Taycan Turbo GT also gets a new wheel and tyre setup.

• 21-inch forged alloy wheels
• Lightweight titanium wheel bolts
• Wider front and rear tyres

Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R tyres are also part of the package!

Porsche says the lighter wheel setup reduces weight while also improving grip and handling.

Carbon fibre elements have also been added across different parts of the Taycan Turbo GT, including the front lip, side skirts and wheel arch vents. These lightweight components help reduce overall weight while also improving airflow and aerodynamic efficiency at higher speeds.

The company shared this update during its investor presentation for FY25-26. Hyundai also said these new launches are expected to help increase volumes and strengthen its SUV lineup further.

The upcoming petrol SUV is expected to sit close to the Creta in Hyundai’s range. Reports suggest it could be based on the Bayon crossover sold in international markets. The SUV is expected to measure around 4.18 metres in length, which places it slightly below the Creta in size.

Unlike earlier expectations of it being a Fronx rival, fresh details now point toward a proper mid-size SUV positioning. Internally, this model is known as Bc4i.

Engine options expected

Hyundai is likely to offer practical engine choices with this SUV.

Expected options include:

• Naturally aspirated petrol engine
• Factory-fitted CNG option
• Dual-cylinder CNG setup

This could also become Hyundai’s first CNG SUV above the 4-metre category. Fuel efficiency and lower running costs are expected to play a major role here.

Strong performance may not be the main focus, but Hyundai is expected to offer a smooth everyday driving experience.

Features and cabin expectations

The new SUV is also expected to carry a feature-rich cabin setup. Hyundai has usually focused heavily on technology and comfort, and the same is likely here too.

Expected highlights include:

• Large touchscreen infotainment system
• Digital instrument cluster
• Connected car technology
• ADAS features
• Premium interior layout

The SUV may also get more safety equipment and improved cabin space compared to current models in similar price brackets.

Hyundai’s EV plans for India

Along with the petrol SUV, Hyundai has also confirmed a new compact electric SUV for the Indian market. This EV is codenamed HE1i internally.

It will rival models like:

• Tata Nexon EV
• Mahindra XUV400
• Upcoming compact electric SUVs

The new EV will be built in India and Hyundai has confirmed high localisation levels. Battery packs will also come from Exide, helping Hyundai keep costs more competitive.

The SUV will use the E-GMP K platform, which also underpins the Hyundai Inster sold overseas.

Battery and range details

Hyundai is expected to offer two battery versions with this electric SUV.

Expected setup includes:

• Standard range version
• Long range version

The international Inster EV gets:

• 42 kWh battery with around 300 km range
• 49 kWh battery with around 355 km range

The India-spec model could deliver similar figures, although final numbers are not confirmed yet.

Production will take place at Hyundai’s Sriperumbudur facility in Tamil Nadu. India will also serve as an export base for this model.

Why Hyundai is expanding its SUV range

Competition in the SUV market has increased heavily over the last few years. Brands like Tata and Mahindra have gained strong ground in multiple segments.

Hyundai appears to be preparing a wider strategy where different SUVs will target different buyers and budgets while still keeping the Creta as a strong volume product.

The current Creta continues to perform well, so Hyundai may continue selling it alongside the new SUV rather than replacing it completely.

Source

The new trim sits above the regular Pure+ variant and adds more premium features without a major jump in pricing. Tata has introduced this variant to celebrate the 10 lakh sales milestone of the Nexon in India.

The new Pure+ PS variant is available with petrol, diesel and CNG engine choices. Buyers can also pick between manual and AMT gearbox options depending on the version.

The feature list gets bigger

The panoramic sunroof is the biggest highlight in this variant. Tata is offering a voice-assist function as well, which is usually seen in higher segments.

Apart from the sunroof, the SUV also gets several comfort and convenience features.

Key features include:

• 10.25 inch Harman touchscreen infotainment system
• Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Six speaker sound system
• Cruise control
• Automatic LED headlamps
• Rain sensing wipers
• LED tail lamps
• Rear parking sensors
• Rear camera with guidelines
• Electrically adjustable ORVMs with auto fold function

The cabin remains similar to other Nexon variants, but the added features make this version feel more premium than before.

Multiple engine options continue

The Nexon range continues with multiple engine options.

Engine choices include:

• 1.2 litre turbo petrol engine
• 1.5 litre diesel engine
• Twin cylinder iCNG setup

Transmission options include both manual and AMT gearboxes on selected variants.

The diesel version continues for buyers who want better highway efficiency, while the CNG option targets daily city usage with lower running cost.

Variant-wise prices

Tata has launched five versions under the Pure+ PS lineup.

Prices are as follows:

• Petrol MT – Rs 9.59 lakh
• Petrol AMT – Rs 10.14 lakh
• iCNG MT – Rs 10.39 lakh
• Diesel MT – Rs 10.54 lakh
• Diesel AMT – Rs 11.19 lakh

All prices are ex-showroom Delhi.

Nexon lineup keeps growing

The Nexon range has now become one of the widest lineups in the segment. Tata currently offers dozens of combinations across petrol, diesel, CNG and EV models.

With the new Pure+ PS trim, buyers now have more feature choices across a wider price range. Premium features are no longer restricted to only the top-end variants.

The Nexon also continues to perform strongly in sales. Tata says it remained among the highest selling SUVs in the country during FY26.

Prices start from around £20,250, which is close to Rs 26 lakh. Norton is also preparing to bring the motorcycle to India in the future.

The Manx R comes with a litre-class V4 engine and enters the high-performance superbike segment with over 200 bhp on offer.

Engine and performance

Powering the Manx R is a 1200cc V4 engine with a 72 degree crank setup.

Key numbers include:

• 206 bhp at 11,500 rpm
• 130 Nm torque at 9,000 rpm

The engine is tuned to deliver stronger low and mid-range performance instead of only focusing on top-end power. This should help the motorcycle feel more usable on normal roads as well.

All four variants use the same engine and electronics package.

Variants and pricing

Norton is offering the Manx R in four versions.

• Standard
• Apex
• Signature
• First Edition

Prices:

• Standard starts at £20,250
• Apex costs £24,750
• Signature costs £38,750
• First Edition price not announced yet

The First Edition will be limited to only 150 units globally.

This version also gets extra details like:

• Special paint finish
• Titanium parts
• Billet aluminium components
• Numbered steering yoke
• Custom startup animation on display

Suspension and wheels

The biggest difference between variants comes from the hardware setup. The base version is equipped with manually adjustable Marzocchi USD front forks and a rear monoshock. Higher variants get electronically adjustable semi-active suspension.

Wheel setup also changes between variants:

• Standard comes with cast aluminium wheels.
• Apex features forged aluminium wheels.
• Signature and First Edition are equipped with carbon fibre Rotobox wheels.

All variants run on Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP V4 tyres.

Tyre sizes include:

• 120 section front
• 200 section rear

Because of the lighter materials used in higher trims, weight also changes.

• Standard weighs 210 kg
• Apex weighs 207 kg
• Signature weighs 203 kg
• First Edition weighs 201 kg

Electronics and features

The electronics package stays common across all versions.

Features include:

• Six-axis IMU
• Traction control
• Wheelie control
• Slide control
• Multiple riding modes

The motorcycle also gets a large 8-inch TFT touchscreen display which handles all riding information and settings.

Braking duties are managed by Brembo hardware across the range.

India launch details

TVS-owned Norton is expected to launch the Manx R in India in the near future. The final launch timeline is not confirmed yet. It is also not clear which variants will arrive here. The Standard and Apex versions could have better chances because of pricing. Even then, the Manx R still undercuts several superbikes sold in global markets despite offering over 200 bhp performance and premium hardware.

This is not a regular electric vehicle or a fuel-cell setup like most hydrogen cars seen today. The Swift shown here uses a hydrogen combustion engine. That makes it very different from the hydrogen vehicles already available in global markets.

The prototype is based on the second-generation Swift. Even though it looks familiar from the outside, major work has happened underneath the body.

Hydrogen engine details

AVL handled most of the engineering and development work for this project. The company used a heavily modified 1.4-litre direct injection engine that runs on hydrogen.

Performance figures are quite interesting for a small hatchback.

• 134 hp power
• 220 Nm torque
• 13 hp more than the regular version
• 20 Nm extra torque compared to the standard petrol setup

The engine uses what AVL calls Hydrogen DI Technology. It supports both lean combustion and stoichiometric combustion modes. A cooled EGR system is also used to manage combustion more efficiently.

According to the company, this setup helps improve performance while also keeping the system stable during operation.

Different from fuel-cell hydrogen cars

Most hydrogen vehicles currently use fuel-cell technology. In those cars, hydrogen is converted into electricity and then used to power electric motors.

The Swift Hydrogen works differently.

Here, hydrogen is directly burned inside the engine like traditional fuel. This setup is considered more practical and less expensive compared to fuel-cell systems, especially for smaller vehicles.

AVL also mentioned that this technology can be scaled for future production use if needed.

More focus on greener fuels

Hydrogen has been receiving more attention in India over the last few years. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has spoken several times about using cleaner fuel options for the future.

Along with electric vehicles, the government is also supporting:

• Hydrogen fuel
• Ethanol blends
• CNG vehicles
• Hybrid technology

Pilot projects linked to hydrogen mobility have already started in some places. One example is the hydrogen station at Cochin International Airport developed with BPCL support.

Toyota Mirai, a hydrogen-powered sedan, has also been used in India as part of awareness and testing activities.

Can a hydrogen Swift work in India?

The Swift is already one of the most popular hatchbacks in the Indian market. Because of that, this project naturally grabs attention.

If Suzuki ever takes this technology toward production, it could help introduce hydrogen mobility to a much larger audience. The compact size, familiar design, and practical nature of the Swift may work well for such experiments in the future.

At the moment, this car is still a technology demonstrator and not a production-ready model. No launch plans have been announced yet.

The Sprint 440 carries a proper cruiser shape with a long and low stance. From the first sketch itself, the motorcycle looks closer to Harley’s bigger bikes than the current X440 models. The styling feels more relaxed and traditional.

The front section gets a round headlamp along with a wide handlebar setup. The fuel tank has a teardrop shape and smoothly flows into the rider seat. The seat itself looks scooped and lower than the one seen on the X440. The pillion section rises slightly towards the rear.

The bike also gets a short rear fender and a flat looking exhaust design. Alloy wheels are visible in the sketch and they appear similar to the units used on the X440.

Wheel setup and riding posture

One major change could be the wheel size combination.

• Large front wheel
• Smaller rear wheel
• Relaxed front fork angle
• Lower seating position

The front wheel is expected to be a 19-inch unit, while the rear could be 16-inch. This setup usually helps give cruiser motorcycles their stretched look.

The lower seat height can also make the bike easier to handle for shorter riders. The current X440 already has a manageable riding position, but the Sprint 440 may feel even more relaxed while riding in city traffic and on highways.

The wider rake angle at the front also changes the overall riding posture. Riders are expected to sit in a laid-back position instead of an upright roadster stance.

Engine and hardware details

The Sprint 440 is expected to use the same 440cc single-cylinder air and oil cooled engine already seen on the X440.

Expected output figures:

• 27 bhp power
• 38 Nm torque
• 6-speed gearbox

This engine has already proven itself with easy city performance and stable highway cruising. The Sprint 440 will likely keep the same character but with a more cruiser-focused tuning setup.

The main chassis appears similar to the current 440 platform, although the rear subframe is expected to be different. Harley and Hero are also likely to share several hardware parts between models to keep production costs under control.

Features and technology

The feature list is expected to remain quite strong for this segment.

Expected features include:

• 3.5-inch TFT display
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Dual-channel ABS
• Ride modes
• Traction control
• Cruise control

The Sprint 440 could also get better quality levels seen on the latest X440 T.

Launch timeline and expected price

Harley-Davidson is likely to unveil the Sprint 440 globally later this year, while the India launch is expected by the end of 2026. The motorcycle will be manufactured in India by Hero MotoCorp, with export plans also in place for multiple international markets. In terms of pricing, the Sprint 440 is expected to be positioned between Rs 2.50 lakh and Rs 2.80 lakh ex-showroom, which would place it close to the current X440 lineup.

Among the three SUVs, the Grand Cherokee gets the highest savings this month. The Compass and Meridian also come with attractive offers, including corporate and special category benefits on selected variants.

The final discount amount may vary depending on stock availability and dealership location, so buyers are advised to check with their nearest Jeep dealer for exact details.

Jeep Grand Cherokee Offer In May 2026

The Grand Cherokee gets the biggest benefits this month.

• Total benefits up to Rs 4 lakh
• Available with Jeep Wave ownership package
• 3 year comprehensive warranty included

Jeep is also offering extra ownership support with the SUV.

This package includes:

• Express service support
• Pick-up and drop facility
• Courtesy vehicle support for long repairs

The Grand Cherokee is sold in a single fully loaded version in India.

Engine details:

• 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine
• 272 hp power output
• 8-speed automatic gearbox
• All-wheel drive system

The SUV is priced at Rs 63 lakh ex-showroom.

Jeep Meridian Offer In May 2026

The Jeep Meridian is also available with strong discounts this month.

• Total benefits up to Rs 1.65 lakh
• Corporate offers up to Rs 1.3 lakh on MY24 stock
• Extra benefits for doctors and leasing partners

Additional benefits can go up to Rs 30,000 for selected buyers.

The Meridian continues with Jeep’s diesel setup and offers both manual and automatic gearbox choices.

Key details include:

• 2.0-litre diesel engine
• 170 hp power output
• 6-speed manual gearbox
• 9-speed automatic option
• 4×4 available in higher trims

The Meridian price starts at Rs 23.33 lakh and goes up to Rs 37.82 lakh ex-showroom.

Jeep Compass Offer In May 2026

The Compass also gets decent benefits in May.

• Benefits up to Rs 1.5 lakh
• Corporate offers up to Rs 1.10 lakh
• Extra Rs 15,000 benefits for selected buyers

Doctors, leasing companies and partner groups can get additional offers on the SUV.

The Compass uses the same diesel engine seen in the Meridian.

Engine and gearbox details:

• 2.0-litre diesel motor
• 170 hp output
• Manual and automatic gearbox choices
• 4×4 available in higher variants

The Compass price starts at Rs 17.99 lakh and goes up to Rs 30.7 lakh ex-showroom.

Wrangler Misses Out This Month

Unlike the other Jeep SUVs, the Wrangler is not available with any official discount or benefits in May 2026. The SUV continues to be sold at its regular price.

The new SUV will sit above the RZ in Lexus’ electric lineup and will first go on sale in Europe from 2027.

Exterior design

The Lexus TZ gets a large and upright SUV shape, yet maintains a smooth and premium appearance. The styling follows Lexus design themes, while also placing a strong emphasis on aerodynamics.

Key design highlights include:

• Closed front grille design
• Illuminated Lexus logo
• C shaped LED headlamps
• L shaped daytime running lights
• Flush door handles
• Full width rear LED light bar
• 20 inch and 22 inch aero wheels

The SUV measures 5100mm in length and gets a long 3050mm wheelbase. Lexus says the design also helps airflow, giving the SUV a drag coefficient of 0.27.

At the rear, the roofline slopes gently while keeping enough cabin room for all three rows. The rear section also gets wide shoulders and connected LED lighting.

Buyers will get 11 exterior shades, including a new khaki green colour called Sonic Tellus. Dual tone roof finishes will also be available in selected markets.

Cabin and comfort

The biggest highlight of the TZ is its cabin layout. Lexus has focused heavily on space and comfort for all passengers.

The SUV comes with:

• Three row six seat layout
• Second row captain seats
• Large panoramic glass roof
• Wide digital displays
• Head up display
• Ambient lighting
• Wireless charging

The panoramic roof stretches across all rows, making the cabin feel more open. Lexus has also added powered ottoman support for front and second row passengers.

The third row gets proper headroom and legroom for adults. Since the battery is placed under the floor and there is no fuel tank, the rear seats are mounted lower for better comfort.

Seat heating and ventilation are available for front and second rows, while heated seats are also offered for the third row.

The dashboard gets a slim and clean design with hidden touch controls that light up when a hand moves near them. Lexus has also used bamboo trim pieces and recycled materials across the cabin.

Cargo space figures are also practical.

• 290 litres with all seats up
• 2017 litres with rear seats folded

Technology and features

The Lexus TZ gets a large 14 inch infotainment system connected to a 12.3 inch driver display. Navigation data can also appear directly in front of the driver.

Other technology features include:

• 21 speaker Mark Levinson sound system
• Smart Digital Key+ support
• LexusLink+ connected car functions
• Over the air software updates
• Voice assistant support
• EV route planning system

Lexus says the cabin is the quietest among all Lexus SUVs due to extra sound insulation, thicker glass and improved aerodynamic parts.

Battery, charging and performance

The TZ will be offered with two battery options.

• 76.96kWh battery pack
• 95.8kWh battery pack

The larger unit delivers up to 530km range on the WLTP cycle.

Dual motor all wheel drive versions produce around 408hp and 0 to 100kmph comes in 5.4 seconds.

Charging support includes:

• 22kW AC charging
• 150kW DC fast charging

Lexus says 10 to 80 percent charging can take around 35 minutes in ideal conditions.

The SUV also gets DIRECT4 all wheel drive, rear wheel steering, regenerative braking adjustment and multiple drive modes including a Comfort mode focused more on rear passenger ride quality.

Safety package

The TZ comes loaded with Lexus Safety System+ features.

• Pre collision assist
• Dynamic radar cruise control
• Lane change assist
• Advanced ADAS systems
• Better intersection detection support

These systems are designed to reduce driver stress and improve overall safety during long drives.

The Himalayan Odyssey has been running for many years and is known as one of the toughest motorcycle journeys in India. Riders travel through high mountain passes, changing weather, rocky roads and long highway stretches during the trip. For many riders, this journey stays on the bucket list for years.

For 2026, Royal Enfield has divided the Odyssey into four different formats. Each route offers a different riding experience depending on what kind of journey riders want.

Himalayan Odyssey Original

The Original route will take place from June 25 to July 10, 2026.

This is the longest ride in the lineup and follows the traditional Odyssey format.

Key details:

• 16 day ride
• Starts and ends in Chandigarh
• Covers Himachal, Zanskar and Ladakh
• Fully supported ride setup

Riders will cross some of the highest motorable roads during the journey. The route also includes long riding hours and group riding formations across mountain roads.

Himalayan Odyssey Explore

The Explore route will run from June 26 to July 5, 2026.

This one is built for riders who prefer a more raw riding experience. Support is limited, and riders will carry their own luggage during the trip.

Highlights include:

• More self-managed riding experience
• Tougher terrain sections
• Limited backup support
• Greater focus on independent travel

This route is expected to suit experienced long-distance riders who are comfortable handling luggage, changing roads and difficult weather conditions.

Nubra Circuit and Kargil Circuit

Royal Enfield has also added two shorter routes called the Nubra Circuit and Kargil Circuit. These rides will happen between June 29 and July 5, 2026.

Both rides will begin from Leh.

The focus here is more on the places, local culture and mountain experience rather than covering huge distances every day.

Key highlights:

• Slower paced riding schedule
• More time at local destinations
• Cultural and heritage focused routes
• Mountain landscapes and village stops

The Nubra route brings riders through cold desert regions and scenic valleys, while the Kargil side includes historic locations and older Himalayan routes.

More than just a motorcycle ride

The Himalayan Odyssey now covers more than 2,200 km across mountain regions. Riders pass through famous locations like Khardung La and Umling La, both known for their extreme altitude and difficult riding conditions.

Weather can change quickly during the journey and oxygen levels remain low at many points. That makes the ride physically demanding as well.

Royal Enfield says it will continue its #LeaveEveryPlaceBetter initiative during the event. The company will focus on responsible travel, cleaner riding practices and support for local communities across the route.

The new edition is based on the Cooper S JCW Pack and brings extra design changes along with a more exclusive look. Customers can pre-book the car through Mini dealerships across India by paying Rs 1.5 lakh.

The GP Inspired Edition takes inspiration from Mini’s racing history and carries several sporty touches across the exterior and cabin.

Exterior details

The car comes only in a single paint shade called Legend Grey. The roof and outside mirrors get a Chilli Red finish, which gives the hatchback a sharper contrast.

A few design highlights include:

• GP Inspired side decals
• Serial number badge on the C pillar
• JCW body kit
• Red tow hook at the front
• JCW winglets on bumper sides
• Grey and red bonnet stripes
• 17 inch JCW alloy wheels
• Red centre caps on wheels

The front section also gets the JCW style grille, bumper and headlights. The overall styling looks sporty without changing the original Mini shape too much.

Cabin and features

The cabin also gets several small changes compared to the standard Cooper S JCW Pack.

Seats come with a red and black upholstery combination along with red detailing on the headrests. The sporty theme continues across different parts of the interior.

Other highlights include:

• JCW steering wheel
• GP Inspired badging
• Special serial number emblem
• JCW inside door locks
• Sport seats with added side support

The cabin keeps the familiar Mini layout but adds extra detailing to make this version feel more exclusive.

Engine and performance

Mini has not changed the engine setup for this edition. It continues with the same turbo petrol engine used in the regular Cooper S lineup.

• 2.0 litre turbo petrol engine
• 204 hp power output
• 300 Nm torque
• 7 speed dual clutch automatic gearbox

The hatchback can sprint from 0 to 100 kmph in 6.6 seconds. Performance is expected to feel quick and responsive, especially in city driving and highway runs.

Price expectations

Mini has not officially announced the final price yet. However, this edition is expected to cost more than the standard Cooper S JCW Pack because of its limited production and added cosmetic elements.

The regular Cooper S JCW Pack is currently priced at Rs 55 lakh ex-showroom.