##Kawasaki debuts the W230, a classic motorcycle with a 233cc single-cylinder engine. This successor to the W Series will be available in Japan.
Kawasaki has unveiled its latest addition to the classic roadster lineup for the Japanese market, the new W230. This model is a successor to the revered W Series, filling the gap left by the discontinuation of the Estrella (W250) in 2017. The W230 is set to go on sale in Japan during the fall season, between September and November.
In terms of design and components, the new Kawasaki W230 shares significant similarities with the Meguro S1, yet both models maintain unique distinctions through their color options and decals. Both motorcycles were showcased at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show, where their striking resemblance was evident. Differences mainly lie in the badging, use of chrome, stickering, and the individual color schemes each bike offers.
#####Design and Key Features
The Kawasaki W230 boasts several classic design elements that harken back to its heritage. This includes a circular headlamp with an accompanying chrome ring that houses LED headlights and position lamps, reminiscent of the Z650RS. The headlamp design is identical to that seen on the Meguro S1. Additionally, the W230 is outfitted with circular rear-view mirrors, fork gaiters, and a teardrop-shaped fuel tank that accentuates its retro styling.
The motorcycle's aesthetics are further enhanced by a horizontally positioned exhaust pipe finished in heavy chrome and a broad rear fender. Once seated, riders will notice the dual-tone quilted seat in black and white, which aligns with the bike’s classic design ethos. Moving towards the rear, the W230 features square tail lights alongside round turn signals, both of which utilize halogen bulbs to maintain the vintage look.
A slim and compact profile ensures that the Kawasaki W230 is easy to maneuver in various environments, from bustling city streets to open highways. The seat height, expected to be less than 800 mm, caters well to shorter riders as it allows for better control of the motorcycle. The ergonomics of the bike are designed for comfort, featuring a wide handlebar and centrally positioned footpegs.
#####Instrumentation and Retro Appeal
The W230's instrument cluster incorporates dual analogue dials, adding to its classic charm. The speedometer dial includes a small rectangular digital display, while the tachometer dial on the right presents additional information at the bottom. The prominence of the "W" badge on the fuel tank is a nod to Kawasaki's celebrated W series, seamlessly blending heritage with contemporary design.
#####Technical Specifications and Performance
The upcoming W230 is equipped with 18-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels, fitted with standard tyres suitable for city use. The suspension system comprises conventional telescopic forks at the front and dual rear shock absorbers. To ensure safety, dual-channel ABS comes standard with the disc brakes on both ends.
Under the fuel tank, the Kawasaki W230 houses a new single cylinder SOHC air-cooled engine derived from the KLX230 series. This engine has been updated to meet Euro 5 emission standards, ensuring compliance with the latest environmental regulations. Interestingly, the Meguro S1 will also share this engine, though slight variations in output characteristics are anticipated between the two models. True to the nature of single cylinder engines, the Kawasaki W230 promises an engaging aural experience, heightening its appeal.
In conclusion, the introduction of the Kawasaki W230 marks a harmonious blend of classic motorcycle aesthetics with modern technological enhancements. This new entrant not only continues the legacy of the W series but also brings a fresh option to enthusiasts seeking a retro-styled roadster. With its well-thought-out design and performance capabilities, the W230 is poised to make a significant impact in the Japanese market.
Price Revisions:
Seiemmezzo 650 Retro Street: The price has been slashed by ₹2 lakh, now available at ₹4.99 lakh (ex-showroom).
Seiemmezzo 650 Scrambler: This model sees a price cut of ₹1.90 lakh, now priced at ₹5.20 lakh (ex-showroom).
Specifications:
Both models are powered by a 649cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, delivering 55.6hp and 54Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed gearbox. They share identical seat heights and suspension travel. The primary differences lie in styling and wheel configurations:
Retro Street: Features alloy wheels.
Scrambler: Equipped with wire-spoke wheels, a beak-style front mudguard, and a small tinted windscreen.
Brand Background:
Moto Morini, an Italian brand now owned by China's Zhongneng Vehicle Group, is represented in India by Adishwar Auto Ride India, which also manages brands like Benelli, Zontes, Keeway, and QJ Motor.
These price reductions position the Seiemmezzo 650 models as competitive options in the mid-range motorcycle segment, appealing to a broader audience.
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CFMOTO, the Chinese motorcycle manufacturer, is set to re-enter the Indian market in mid-2025, with the 450MT adventure bike expected to be the first model launched. The 450MT is anticipated to be priced competitively, potentially undercutting rivals like the Royal Enfield Himalayan and the KTM 390 Adventure.
Design and Features:
The CFMOTO 450MT is designed as an adventure touring motorcycle, featuring a parallel-twin engine. It boasts a 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel setup, providing enhanced off-road capabilities. The bike offers 200mm of suspension travel and a low 800mm seat height, making it accessible for a wide range of riders.
Market Strategy:
CFMOTO plans to import the 450MT as a Completely Knocked Down (CKD) unit, which may influence its pricing strategy in India. The company aims to make a strong impression with its re-entry into the Indian market, offering a range of motorcycles, including the 675cc three-cylinder models and the 700MT, in the future
Availability:
The 450MT is expected to be available in India by mid-2025, with CFMOTO finalizing discussions with a local partner for distribution. The company is keen to establish a strong presence in the Indian market with its upcoming lineup.
For more information on the CFMOTO 450MT and its upcoming launch in India, stay tuned to CarTopNews.com.
The updated model is set to launch first in China, with plans to expand to other markets, including India.
Design Enhancements:
The facelifted BYD Atto 3 features a more refined exterior, retaining the original lighting setup but introducing redesigned air intakes and a refreshed bumper. A new front camera has been added as part of the advanced ADAS suite. The side profile now includes sportier alloy wheels, and a new exterior color option offers a subtle and mature aesthetic. The D-pillars are partially blacked out, complementing the distinctive rippled finish. At the rear, a sportier roof spoiler with integrated dual brake lights and tail lamps featuring Chinese knot pattern elements have been added, reflecting traditional Chinese decorative art
Advanced ADAS Suite:
The facelifted Atto 3 is equipped with the enhanced "God’s Eye C (DiSus 100)" ADAS suite, comprising a three-camera block under the windshield, five long-range cameras, four surround-view cameras, five mm-wave radars, and twelve ultrasonic radars, totaling 29 sensors. This setup supports ten high-speed navigation scenarios and offers six intelligent parking modes.
Powertrain and Range:
The Atto 3 facelift continues with existing powertrain options, featuring a 60.5 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack. The front-mounted electric motor delivers 150 kW (204 PS) and 310 Nm of torque. In India, the ARAI-certified range is 521 km. Charging from 0 to 80% takes approximately 50 minutes with a DC charger, while an AC charger requires about 9.5 to 10 hours
Interior Features:
While specific interior details have yet to be revealed, the facelifted Atto 3 is expected to offer a refreshed cabin with multiple new features, enhancing the overall driving experience.
The facelifted Atto 3 represents BYD's commitment to innovation, combining aesthetic enhancements with advanced safety features to meet the evolving demands of the electric vehicle market.
BYD, the Chinese automaker renowned for its electric vehicles, is set to expand its lineup by introducing a full-size pickup truck aimed at competing with established models like the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, and Toyota Tundra. This new vehicle is anticipated to enter the market around 2027.
Current Offerings:
Before this full-size pickup, BYD has ventured into the pickup segment with the Shark 6, a mid-to-large size plug-in hybrid pickup truck. Launched in Mexico, the Shark 6 features a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine paired with electric motors, delivering a combined output of 430 horsepower. This setup enables the Shark 6 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds.
Future Plans:
The forthcoming full-size pickup is expected to adopt a plug-in hybrid powertrain, similar to the Shark 6, rather than a fully electric setup. This approach aligns with BYD's strategy to offer versatile and powerful vehicles that cater to diverse market needs.
Market Strategy:
While the new pickup is unlikely to be available in the United States due to import tariffs, it is expected to be offered in other key markets, including Australia. In Australia, the vehicle will likely be built as a right-hand drive from the factory, potentially providing a cost advantage over competitors that require right-hand drive conversions.
BYD's entry into the full-size pickup market signifies a strategic move to broaden its global presence and challenge traditional automakers in the pickup segment. With a focus on hybrid technology and market-specific adaptations, BYD aims to offer a compelling alternative to established pickup trucks in various regions.
In January 2025, Yamaha Motor India reported a total of 55,545 units sold, comprising both motorcycles and scooters. This figure represents a significant 51.02% increase from the 36,780 units sold in December 2024, though it marks a 10.96% decline compared to the 62,384 units sold in January 2024.
Scooter Sales:
The Yamaha RayZR 125 emerged as the top-selling scooter, with 15,209 units sold in January 2025. This performance indicates a 26.25% year-over-year (YoY) growth and a 26.72% month-over-month (MoM) increase. The RayZR accounted for 27.38% of Yamaha's total sales during this period.
The Fascino 125 also contributed to Yamaha's scooter sales, with 8,261 units sold in January 2025. This represents a 1.04% YoY growth and a 50.89% MoM increase
Motorcycle Sales:
In the motorcycle segment, the FZ series achieved a cumulative sales figure of 11,399 units, accounting for 20.52% of Yamaha's total sales. This marks a 22.34% YoY decline but a 33.20% MoM increase.
The MT-15 secured the third position among Yamaha's best-selling models, with 10,640 units sold in January 2025. This represents a 29.65% YoY decline but a substantial 103.68% MoM growth
The YZF-R15, Yamaha's fully faired supersport motorcycle, sold 8,264 units in January 2025. This indicates a 14.59% YoY decline and a 93.58% MoM increase.
Premium Segment:
Yamaha's premium motorcycles, the R3 and MT-03, collectively sold only 2 units in January 2025. Notably, these models received a significant price reduction of up to ₹1.1 lakh on January 31, 2025, which is expected to positively influence their sales figures in the coming months.
Overall, Yamaha's sales performance in January 2025 reflects a strong recovery from the previous month, with notable growth in scooter sales and a resurgence in motorcycle sales, particularly in the MT-15 and YZF-R15 models.
The Ferrari 456 GT, introduced in 1992, marked a significant return to the front-engine V12 configuration for Ferrari's 2+2 grand tourers, a layout last seen in the 1985 412. Designed by Pininfarina under the direction of Pietro Camardella and Lorenzo Ramaciotti, the 456 GT features an aluminum body that exudes timeless elegance and aerodynamic efficiency.
Under the hood, the 456 GT is powered by a 5.5-liter 65° V12 engine, delivering 442 horsepower at 6,250 rpm and 406 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm. This powertrain enables the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.9 seconds, reaching a top speed of 192 mph, making it one of the fastest four-seaters of its time.
The interior of the 456 GT is designed with a focus on luxury and comfort, featuring a sumptuous cabin that accommodates four passengers. High-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship reflect Ferrari's commitment to providing an exceptional driving experience.
A notable example of this model is a 1997 Ferrari 456 GT finished in Verde Silverstone over a tan leather interior. This particular vehicle, equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, has covered 61,000 miles and is currently listed for £49,950
The Ferrari 456 GT remains a testament to the brand's engineering prowess and design excellence, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and timeless style that continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Powertrain Details
Both the Kiger and Triber are currently equipped with a 1.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, delivering 72 PS and 96 Nm of torque. The Kiger also offers a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol option, producing 100 PS and up to 160 Nm. The anticipated CNG variants are expected to utilize the naturally aspirated engine, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. While official specifications are yet to be disclosed, it's common for CNG powertrains to exhibit a slight reduction in power output compared to their petrol counterparts.
Feature Highlights
The MY2025 updates have made several features more accessible across lower variants. Both models now come equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, wireless phone charging, remote keyless entry, air filters, and powered ORVMs. The Kiger additionally offers cruise control and automatic climate control with rear vents.
Safety Features
Safety remains a priority, with both vehicles offering up to four airbags, ABS with EBD, a tyre pressure monitoring system, auto-dimming IRVM, reverse parking sensors, and hill start assist.
Pricing and Market Position
The Renault Kiger is priced between ₹6.1 lakh and ₹10.1 lakh, positioning it against competitors like the Maruti Brezza, Nissan Magnite, Tata Nexon, and Mahindra XUV300. The Triber, ranging from ₹6.1 lakh to ₹8.75 lakh, offers a unique proposition as a 7-seater, with indirect competition from models such as the Maruti Swift and Hyundai Grand i10 Nios.
The introduction of CNG variants aligns with Renault's strategy to provide more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly options to the Indian market. Further details regarding variant-specific features and official launch dates are awaited.
Pricing Overview
The kia new variants are competitively priced, with the HTE (O) 1.5 N/A Petrol MT starting at ₹11.13 lakh, and the HTK Plus (O) 1.5 Diesel AT priced at ₹17.22 lakh (ex-showroom, pan-India).
Variant Features
All three variants are available with a choice of a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine or a 1.5-liter diesel engine, catering to diverse customer preferences.
With these new additions, Kia aims to offer a blend of affordability and premium features, enhancing the appeal of the Seltos in the competitive compact SUV market.