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Articles by Rivan RS
MG Motor India’s plug in hybrid SUV to rival XUV 7XO - Introduction
On the sidelines of the MG Majestor’s reveal, JSW MG Motor India confirmed it is set to foray into the plug-in hybrid segment, a space that no mass-market carmaker has entered yet. This bold move will be spearheaded by a new large SUV that is being prepared to go on sale by October this year, as an EV and PHEV, expected to rival the likes of the Mahindra’s XEV 9S and XUV 7XO, respectively.
India-EU FTA explained: Will luxury car prices actually reduce?
Hailed as a landmark and historic pact, the India-European Union free trade agreement (FTA) will see custom duty on EU-made cars reduce significantly over time for a select allocation, and duties on auto components will be completely abolished after five to 10 years. However, there is some confusion as to how it’ll actually affect luxury car prices and whether on-road prices of made-in-EU cars will reduce at all. Here we answer some of the most frequently asked questions on the India-EU FTA.
What the 2026 Renault Duster has to live up to
In the run up to the launch of the 2026 Renault Duster in March, the French brand has revealed nearly every detail of the new Hyundai Creta rival. When the original Duster arrived in July 2012, it created the mid-size SUV segment, offering something unique in almost every aspect. Here we take a look at the standards set by the first-gen Duster, and where the new model meets them, and where it may not.
2026 Volkswagen Tayron interior image gallery
Car gallery The second row comes with sliding and reclining functions. Third row seems to be a bit cramped for adults. With the second and third row folded down, there's up to 1,905 litres of boot space. The space saver spare tyre can be accessed from the boot. It gets a large 15-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. There's a 10.25-inch digital driver's display, and an augmented reality HUD on offer. A 360-degree camera is part of the standard kit.
2026 Volkswagen Tayron exterior image gallery
The Volkswagen Tayron for India has been revealed before its launch by March. The large 7-seat SUV will be VW India's flagship SUV when prices are announced and contend with the likes of the Skoda Kodiaq and MG Majestor. The Tayron will be available in a single R Line trim, and a sole powertrain – a 204hp 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox that sends power to all-four wheels via Volkswagen's 4Motion AWD system.
Toyota Hyryder Tech Package launched
Toyota India has launched a new Tech Package for its midsize SUV. The Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder Tech Package essentially adds some features and safety kit, which come from the brand’s official accessories list. The Tech Package is available on all Hyryder variants, and costs Rs 29,499 more than the variant it is based on.
2026 Skoda Kushaq vs Hyundai Creta: Specifications comparison
While the Hyundai Creta has been the reigning sales champ of the fiercely competitive mid-size SUV segment, the mid-lifecycle facelift for the Skoda Kushaq is here to try to challenge its supremacy. We compare the two SUVs in terms of specifications to find out if the updated Kushaq has a shot.
New Hyundai SUV spied for the first time in India
A new Hyundai SUV has been spied testing on Mumbai’s roads by Autocar India’s intrepid reporters. This SUV seems to be an all-new model that has yet to be identified.
Toyota diesel engines to continue past 2027 in the Fortuner and Hilux - Introduction
The diesel engine will continue to remain relevant for select segments says Sabari Manohar, Group Head – Customer Service at Toyota Kirloskar Motor. The statement comes in response to a specific question about the future of diesel in India.
Vinfast VF7 receives 5-star Bharat NCAP safety rating
Bharat NCAP has announced today that the Vinfast VF7 has been given a 5-star safety rating in its crash tests. Interestingly, BNCAP says the tests were conducted in November 2025, just two months after VF7 prices were announced. The 5-star rating for adult occupant protection (AOP) and child occupancy protection (COP) is valid for all five VF7 variants – Earth, Wind, Wind Infinity, Sky and Sky Infinity.
Toyota Urban Cruiser Ebella vs rivals: specifications comparison
The all-electric mid-size SUV has come a decently long way since the MG ZS EV was the only offering back in 2020. Today, buyers have the Tata Curvv EV, Hyundai Creta Electric, and Mahindra BE 6 to choose from along with the aforementioned MG SUV, and two badge-engineered twins, the Maruti e Vitara and Toyota Urban Cruiser Ebella are arrive shortly, bringing the total number of electric midsize SUVs to six; seven if one includes the soon-to-arrive Tata Sierra EV.
New Skoda Kylaq Classic+ and Prestige+ variants to launch soon - Introduction
On the sidelines of the Skoda Kushaq facelift reveal, the Czech brand also revealed a new lower-spec variant for its Kylaq compact SUV called Classic+. Further, Skoda India confirmed that a new Kylaq Sportline variant will also launch by September this year, that the mid-spec Signature and Signature+ variants will have more features, and that there will be a new top-spec Prestige+ variant coming.
New Maruti Suzuki Khoraj Gujarat plant will be the fifth in India for the brand - Introduction
Maruti Suzuki India Limited and the Government of Gujarat have formalised an investment agreement for a new manufacturing facility in Khoraj. According to ANI, Maruti Suzuki has committed an investment of Rs 35,000 crore to the project.
Jetour T2 i-DM image gallery
Car gallery The T2 is a boxy SUV with a traditional upright stance. It uses a monocoque chassis and has design cues clearly inspired by Land Rover's Defender. Jetour claims a water wading depth of up to 700mm for the T2. The pure EV mode, the plug-in hybrid SUV can travel up to a claimed 140km. Dashboard is dominated by a 15.6-inch infotainment touchscreen; driver's get 10.25-inch digital display. A panoramic sunroof is offered on top trims.
Mercedes India sales drop by nearly 3 percent in 2025 - Introduction
Mercedes-Benz India has announced its sales figures for the previous year, and its 12-car strong launch plans for 2026, beginning with the locally-assembled GLS Maybach and the EQS SUV Celebration Edition. While the German luxury marque still leads the sales charts, the margin between Mercedes and second place BMW has reduced significantly to just 1,736 units in 2025, compared to 3,844 units in 2024.
2026 Tata Punch interior image gallery
Car gallery A 360 degree camera is available from the mid-spec Punch Adevnture variant onwards. Rectangular AC vents are similar to the outgoing model. Cupholders behind the gear lever and storage in front of it. Tata claims ]210-litres of boot space for the CNG variants. Punch CNG gets dual-cylinder setup. 7-inch digital TFT instrument cluster available on the higher-spec Accomplished variant. The doots still open 90 degrees.
2026 Year of the midsize SUV - Introduction
Last year saw the already competitve midsize SUV segment grow even more crowded with the launch of the reborn Tata Sierra, and just earlier this month, Kia announced prices for the second-gen Seltos. With four all-new cars, three facelifts for current models, and an all-electric version of a current SUV coming in 2026, there’s going to be a whopping 18 mid-size SUVs for buyers to choose from across powertrains, suggesting this year is the year of the midsize SUV.
BMW India to launch 6 all new cars this year
BMW Group India – which runs the BMW car, Mini, and BMW Motorrad brands – has aggressive launch plans across its four-wheeler range. While 10 new Mini cars have been confirmed for 2026, the BMW brand will also see 27 updates, including 6 all-new cars, 4 facelifts and 17 product enhancements. “2026 is a very big year for us. We are launching 10 new products,” said Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India.
2026 Tata Punch facelift all colours gallery
Car gallery Tata calls this colour Pristine White and it is available on a number of cars from the brand. This red finish is called Bengal Rouge by Tata. This yellow-orange finish is called Caramel by Tata. Tata has named this silver exterior colour Coorg Clouds. This blue finish is called Cyantafic by Tata. Tata calls this colour Daytona Grey and it is available on a number of cars from the brand. The 2026 facelift for the Tata Punch brings a comprehensive update.
10 new Mini cars to launch in India in 2026 - Introduction
Mini’s parent company, BMW Group India, has plans to launch 10 new models from the British marque in 2026, hoping to double its sales in the year to around 1,400 units. Mini India delivered 730 cars in 2025, registering a 3 percent increase compared to 2024’s sales.
Toyota Fortuner and Innova Crysta and Hycross prices hiked by up to Rs 74000 in January 2026 - Introduction
Toyota India has increased prices for select models in its portfolio, and rejigged the variant line-up for some cars in January 2026. Prices for the Innova Crysta, Hycross, and Fortuner – including the Legender – are up significantly, while Toyota has discontinued select variants of the Rumion, Hycross and Fortuner. The price of the Taisor, Hyryder, Rumion, Hilux, Camry, Vellfire and Land Cruiser 300 are unchanged.
Volkswagen Taigun and Virtus Comfortline prices drop by up to Rs 84,000 - Introduction
Volkswagen India is among the carmakers to have increased prices for its portfolio as 2026 began. Some VW dealerships across the country had announced a price hike for the Taigun SUV and Virtus sedan, and we now have the exact variant-wise increase in prices for the India 2.0 models. It should be noted that prices for the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Tiguan are unchanged; in any case, the performance hatch has sold out, though a second batch could be on the way.
Toyota Urban Cruiser EV first teaser out before India launch
Toyota India has begun its teaser campaign for its first electric car, the Urban Cruiser EV. The first teaser of the India-spec Toyota Urban Cruiser EV provides some exterior design details, but not much else.
Volkswagen Virtus, Taigun get discounts of up to Rs 1.26 lakh in January 2026
Volkswagen dealerships across India are offering significant benefits and discounts on the Taigun SUV and Virtus sedan this month. Naturally, all discounts and benefits are only available on MY2025 models. The total benefits this month comprise direct cash discounts, exchange and corporate/loyalty bonuses and a scrappage incentive of up to Rs 20,000.
Maruti Alto K10 and S Presso sales register nearly 100 percent sales increase in December 2025 - Introduction Original
The GST 2.0 reforms that came into effect at the end of September last year have provided fresh wind in the sails for Maruti Suzuki as the brand saw sales in the fourth quarter of 2025 (October to December) surge 22 percent compared to last year. Maruti’s sales of in the first three quarters of 2025 (January to September) were down 3 percent compared to 2024. What has helped provide new impetus to the brand’s sales is reviving demand for its small cars and other hatchbacks.
Hyundai Aura exterior design gallery - Introduction | Autocar India Original
Car gallery The Aura's inverted trapezoidal air dam is flanked by inverted L-shaped LED Daytime Running Lamps and functional vertical air vents. Rear spoiler available from the mid-spec S variant onwards. Compact dimensions and light controls make it easy to drive in the city. Latest facelift in 2023 brought a slim front grille. Only top-spec SX and SX(O) variants get the 15-inch alloy wheels.
BMW iX1 LWB vs Mini Countryman Electric real world performance comparison - Introduction Original
Among the entry-level luxury EVs, the BMW iX1 LWB and Mini Countryman Electric share a lot. Both eSUVs are powered by a 66.4kWh battery, and come with a front axle-mounted motor that produces 204hp and 250Nm. In fact, these EVs are based on the BMW Group's FAAR (Frontantriebsarchitektur) platform, and can be considered badge-engineered twins, so much so that the BMW and Mini have an identical claimed 0-100kph time of 8.6 seconds.
Hyundai Verna interior and features gallery
Car gallery The front of the cabin gets a inimalist and horizontally oriented look. Front seats get a heating and a ventilation function. Rear seat space vast and at least on par with its rivals. 528 litres of boot space is on offer. Infotainment and AC functions can be accessed through a button. Slick 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen is angled towards the driver. Turbo DCT variants get adaptive cruise control and front vehicle departure warning in addition to other Level 2 ADAS features.
Mahindra XEV 9S vs XEV 9e real world range comparison
Mahindra’s flagship EVs, the three-row XEV 9S and the XEV 9e coupe, have a lot in common, from the INGLO born-electric car platform, to the battery options and motors on offer. We put the two Mahindra eSUVs through our methodical, exhaustive and accurate range tests to find out which delivers more real world range. Mahindra XEV 9S vs XEV 9e specifications and price Mahindra has confirmed that the three-row XEV 9S weighs more than the XEV 9e coupe, though has not clarified by how much specifically.
Mahindra XEV 9S real world range tested and explained - Introduction
The Mahindra XEV 9S is the brand’s latest EV, and this INGLO platform-based three-row SUV shares its 59kWh and 79kWh battery pack options with the BE 6 and XEV 9e. As Mahindra claims an ARAI range of 679km for the larger 79kWh variants, we put the range-topping Pack Three Above variant through our range and charging tests to find out how the longer range XEV 9S fares in the real world.
Jimny Nomade Monster Hunter Wilds and Swift Sport Super Taikyu among 9 Suzuki cars and bikes to debut at Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 - Introduction
Suzuki has announced its nine model strong display at the upcoming Tokyo Auto Salon 2026. Scheduled to begin on January 9, the motor show will see the Japanese automaker showcase 5 one-off concepts and a couple of accessorised models at its stall, which follows the theme of “Life with Adventure”. Highlights of Suzuki’s showcase include the one-off Jimny Nomade and DR-Z4S made in collaboration with the 2025 Monster Hunter Wild game created by Capcom as a successor to the 2018 Monster Hunter: World.
Upcoming EV launches in 2026
We’re nearly at the end of 2025 and this year has seen 7 all-new electric cars arrive in Indian mass market segments, from the full price list of the Mahindra BE 6 and XEV 9e to the Hyundai Creta Electric, Tata Harrier EV, VinFast’s VF6 and VF7, and the Kia Carens Clavis EV. Next year will see the launch of at least nine all-new mass-market electric cars, and two facelifts for current EVs on sale.
Mahindra XEV 9S vs XEV 9e real world performance comparison - Introduction
Mahindra’s flagship EVs, the three-row XEV 9S SUV and the XEV 9e coupe-SUV, share the brand’s INGLO platform, and their respective range-topping variants have the same 79kWh battery and 286hp rear motor. We dig through our extensive performance data to see which electric SUV offers more real world performance in terms of acceleration and braking with our exhaustive and accurate tests.
Maruti Ciaz receives 1 star Global NCAP safety rating
Road safety organisation Global NCAP has revealed that the Maruti Ciaz on sale in India was put through its gamut of crash tests. Maruti’s midsize sedan received a 1-star rating for adult occupancy protection (AOP), and a 3-star rating for child occupancy protection.
Kia Carens Clavis EV vs Hyundai Creta Electric real world range compared
The Kia Carens Clavis EV and the Hyundai Creta Electric target completely different buyers, but they have the same battery pack and respective electric motor options. The MPV and the midsize SUV also have overlapping price points. With our exhaustive economy tests, we find out which of these EVs delivers more real-world range and battery efficiency and how close each is to its ARAI-rated range figure.
Nissan India announces launch plans: 3 new cars by 2027
At the event that is likely to be the final teaser for the new Nissan MPV, christened Gravite, the brand has also revealed its launch plans for the next 2 years. By 2027, Nissan India’s portfolio will increase to four models, marking the Japanese company’s strong refocus on its Indian operations.
Tata Harrier EV vs Mahindra XEV 9e real world performance tested and compared - Introduction
Home-grown carmakers Mahindra and Tata Motors are butting heads in a variety of segments, and their respective flagship five-seat electric SUVs are most certainly direct rivals. The Harrier EV and Mahindra XEV 9e have similar claimed figures, battery sizes, and prices, which is why we’ve dug through our performance data to find out which eSUV offers more in the real world performance.
Mahindra Scorpio N facelift launch in early 2026
The Mahindra Scorpio N is set to get a facelift, which is expected to launch in India in the first quarter (January-March) of next year. The mid-lifecycle refresh for the large ladder-frame SUV will be Mahindra’s second facelift to launch in 2026, following the XUV 7XO, which is essentially the updated XUV700.
22 cars ONE automatic gearbox: Aisin 6-speed transmission - Introduction
Japanese auto parts maker Aisin may not be a household name in India, but its contribution to some of the most popular cars in our market cannot be understated.
Mercedes car prices to increase from 1 January 2026 - Introduction
Mercedes-Benz India has announced a price hike across its range of cars and EVs by up to 2 percent.
Toyota Taisor all colours image gallery | Autocar India
Home Gallery Toyota Taisor all colours image gallery Toyota calls this colour Bluish Black. The Taisor finished in the monotone Cafe White colour. One of the dual-tone options is Cafe White with a Midnight Black roof. This exterior colour is called Enticing Silver by Toyota. Enticing Silver and Midnight Black is another dual-tone finish available. Toyota calls this colour Gaming Grey. The Taisor is the only Toyota to get this Lucent Orange paint. The monotone Sportin Red finish for the Taisor.
Maruti Victoris AWD real world mileage tested explained - Introduction
The Maruti Victoris is available with four powertrain options – a strong hybrid-eCVT combo, a CNG-manual option, a mild-hybrid petrol with 5-speed manual and a mild-hybrid petrol with 6-speed torque convertor automatic gearbox options. While most versions of the Victoris are front-wheel driven, the petrol-AT powertrain option can also be specced with all-wheel drive.
2026 Kia Seltos interior image gallery
Scheduled to launch on January 2, 2026, the second-gen Kia Seltos has been revealed with a significant update for its exterior, interior and features list. While the 2026 Seltos has the same six engine and gearbox options as the outgoing model, the cabin has been overhauled and there is some similarity to other new Kia models. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen, 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 5.0-inch HVAC display, are shared with the Syros, as are the physical switchgear on the centre console.
2026 Kia Seltos exterior image gallery
Home Gallery 2026 Kia Seltos exterior image gallery Second-gen Seltos' wheelbase is 80mm longer than its predecessor at 2,690mm. New grille, inspired by the larger Telluride SUV, has a jagged appearance with vertical gun-metal accents. Inverted L-shaped LED tail-lamps bear a resemblance to the Carens Clavis'. Numberplate housing now in the rear bumper; prominent roof spoiler on offer. New 18-inch alloy wheels have geometric motifs. New-gen model gets flush-fitting door handles.
What to expect from the Mahindra XUV700 facelift called the XUV 7XO - Introduction
Mahindra has begun the teaser campaign for its refreshed flagship ICE SUV, the XUV 7XO. Essentially the Mahindra XUV700, the XUV 7XO will debut on January 5, and prices will be revealed shortly after. So without digressing further, here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming Mahindra XUV 7XO. 1. What is the expected Mahindra XUV 7XO price? The outgoing XUV700 is priced between Rs 13.66 lakh and Rs 23.71 lakh.
2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift to get rear seat massage function
The facelift for the Skoda Kushaq, expected to launch in January 2026, is going to get significant updates to keep the midsize SUV relevant in an increasingly competitive segment, which has recently seen the launch of the Tata Sierra. Among the feature additions seen in spy shots, we can now confirm that the 2026 Kushaq facelift will also get a segment-first: a massage function for the rear seats.
Mahindra XUV700 facelift named XUV 7XO to debut on January 5 2026 - Introduction
The Mahindra XUV700 facelift will be called the XUV 7XO, the brand has revealed today. The Mahindra XUV 7XO, which will make its debut on January 5 next year, is the second model to follow the brand's newer nomenclature for its ICE models, following the XUV 3XO, which was essentially the XUV300 facelift.
MG Gloster and ZS EV and Comet get up to Rs 4 lakh in year end discounts - Introduction | Autocar India
JSW-MG Motor India has launch a new Midnight Carnival offer, which brings massive discounts and benefits to its entire line-up. As is usually the case, year-end discounts are on the higher side to clear current inventory to make space for next year's models, so without further digression, here's how much you could save on your new MG car or EV. Disclaimer: Discounts may vary from city to city and are subject to stock availability. Please check with your local dealer for the exact figures.
Citroen C3 X vs Skoda Kylaq AT real world mileage compared
Among the few affordable cars with sporty aspirations on sale in India are the Citroen C3 X and the Skoda Kylaq. Both these compact cars come with a punchy turbo-petrol engine producing in excess of 100hp and an Aisin-sourced 6-speed torque convertor automatic gearbox. We see whether the C3's 1.2-litre turbo-petrol is more efficient than the Kylaq's 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine.
BMW iX1 LWB gets new colour and interior upholstery - Introduction
The BMW iX1 LWB is now available with a new exterior colour option, and the entry-level luxury eSUV can now also be had with different interior upholstery. Prices of the iX1 LWB are unchanged – it costs Rs 49.90 lakh, ex-showroom, India.
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