The electric vehicle (EV) market in India is rapidly growing, and one of the latest entrants to look out for is the BYD Sealion 7. Scheduled to make its grand debut in India, the Sealion 7 promises to bring a fresh face to the electric SUV category, directly competing with popular models like the BMW iX1. Here’s everything you need to know about this much-anticipated launch.
Sealion 7: The Latest Offering from BYD
The BYD Sealion 7, which is part of BYD's Seal family of electric vehicles, is a sleek and stylish electric SUV. With its contemporary design, advanced features, and impressive range, the Sealion 7 aims to cater to India’s growing demand for premium electric SUVs.
BYD, a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, has been a significant player in the global EV space, and the Sealion 7 is one of its key offerings for the Indian market. The SUV is expected to be equipped with cutting-edge technology, including a spacious cabin, high-grade safety features, and a powerful electric powertrain.
Launch Details: When Is It Coming to India?
According to reports, the BYD Sealion 7 is set to be launched in India on February 15, 2025. This marks a significant step for BYD as it expands its presence in the Indian electric vehicle market. As the brand continues to make strides in the country, the Sealion 7 will be one of its flagship models.
The Sealion 7 will offer a premium EV experience, rivaling top competitors like the BMW iX1—one of the most anticipated electric SUVs in India. With many car enthusiasts and potential buyers eagerly awaiting its launch, the Sealion 7’s entry into India is expected to stir some excitement in the electric vehicle segment.
BYD Sealion 7 vs. BMW iX1: A Tough Competition
When it comes to electric SUVs, BMW’s iX1 has already carved a niche for itself as a luxury option in the market. With its stunning design, efficient performance, and top-tier technology, it has become one of the top contenders in the premium electric vehicle segment.
In terms of performance, the BMW iX1 is likely to have a slight edge, offering impressive acceleration and top-notch driving dynamics. However, BYD Sealion 7 may catch up with a long-range battery pack and a robust powertrain that can go head-to-head with the BMW in terms of range and efficiency.
Design and Comfort
Both SUVs offer a stylish and modern design. The BYD Sealion 7 features a bold, futuristic appearance with sleek lines and an aggressive stance. Meanwhile, the BMW iX1 brings a luxury SUV feel, blending high-end materials and technology to ensure maximum comfort for the driver and passengers.
Price Comparison
The expected price range of the BYD Sealion 7 in India is speculated to be ₹45–50 lakh, while the BMW iX1 is expected to be priced around ₹60 lakh. With its competitive pricing, BYD aims to offer a premium electric SUV at a more accessible price point, making it an attractive alternative to the iX1.
What to Expect From the BYD Sealion 7?
Here are some key features you can expect from the BYD Sealion 7:
Electric Powertrain: A high-capacity battery offering a substantial range, which is one of the main selling points for EVs today.
Stay tuned to Cartopnews.com for more updates on the BYD Sealion 7 launch and other exciting developments in the electric vehicle segment!
Honda Cars India has introduced the Elevate Black Edition, adding a striking all-black aesthetic to its popular SUV lineup. This special edition is available in two variants: the Black Edition and the Signature Black Edition, with prices ranging from ₹15.51 lakh to ₹16.93 lakh (ex-showroom).
Exterior Highlights
Both variants feature a sleek Crystal Black Pearl exterior, complemented by blacked-out alloy wheels and lug nuts. Premium black chrome accents adorn the upper grille, while contrasting silver elements enhance the front and rear skid plates, door garnish, and roof rails. The tailgate is distinguished by a "Black Edition" emblem, with the Signature Black Edition additionally showcasing a unique "Signature Edition" badge on the front fender.
Interior Features
The cabin continues the monochromatic theme with an all-black interior, including door pads, armrests, instrument panels, and leatherette seats accented with black stitching. A standout feature exclusive to the Signature Black Edition is the 7-color rhythmic ambient lighting, providing customizable illumination across the dashboard and doors.
Performance and Specifications
Under the hood, the Honda Elevate Black Edition is powered by a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine, delivering 119 bhp and 145 Nm of torque. This engine can be paired with either a 6-speed manual or a CVT automatic transmission.
Conclusion
The Honda Elevate Black Edition combines a bold, stealthy exterior with a sophisticated interior, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a distinctive presence on the road. With its competitive pricing and enhanced features, this special edition reinforces Honda's commitment to offering stylish and performance-oriented vehicles in the Indian market.
Skoda Auto India has officially teased the upcoming second-generation Kodiaq SUV, indicating an imminent launch. The teaser, shared on Skoda's social media platforms, features the caption "Skoda Kodiaq, Coming Soon," signaling the vehicle's arrival in the Indian market.
Uncamouflaged Spy Shots Reveal Design Details
Recent uncamouflaged spy photographs have surfaced, showcasing the Kodiaq in both Sportline and Laurin & Klement (L&K) variants. These images provide a clear view of the SUV's exterior design, which, while updated, retains the distinctive Kodiaq aesthetic. Notable features include a refreshed front grille, sleek LED headlamps, and a sculpted bonnet, contributing to a more dynamic stance.
Expected Variants and Features
Skoda is anticipated to offer the new Kodiaq in multiple trims, including the Sportline, L&K, and potentially an RS variant. The L&K trim, previously showcased at Auto Expo 2025, represents the top-tier offering, emphasizing luxury and advanced features. The RS variant is expected to focus on enhanced performance and may be introduced as a Completely Built-Up (CBU) unit, following the strategy employed with the Octavia RS
Dimensions and Interior Highlights
The second-generation Kodiaq measures 4,758 mm in length, 1,864 mm in width, and 1,659 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,791 mm and a ground clearance of 192 mm, suitable for diverse Indian terrains. The interior is projected to draw inspiration from the latest Skoda Superb, featuring a free-standing infotainment screen, intelligent climate control knobs, and seats with ventilation, power adjustments, and massage functions, enhancing overall comfort and convenience.
Powertrain and Performance
Under the hood, the new Kodiaq is expected to house a 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine, delivering approximately 190 PS of power and 320 Nm of torque. This engine will likely be paired with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, ensuring robust performance across various driving conditions.
Market Positioning and Competition
Upon its launch, the new Kodiaq will compete with models such as the Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line, Jeep Meridian, Toyota Fortuner, and MG Gloster. Skoda's strategy to assemble the Kodiaq locally through the Completely Knocked Down (CKD) route aims to offer competitive pricing in this segment.
The forthcoming release of the second-generation Skoda Kodiaq is poised to make a significant impact in the Indian SUV market, offering a blend of sophisticated design, advanced features, and dynamic performance.
Hyundai has expanded its Exter Hy-CNG Duo lineup by introducing the new EX variant, priced at ₹7.51 lakh (ex-showroom). This addition makes the dual-cylinder CNG technology more accessible to a broader range of customers.
Key Features of the Exter EX Hy-CNG Duo:
Powered by a 1.2-liter, four-cylinder naturally aspirated bi-fuel engine, the Exter EX Hy-CNG Duo delivers 68 bhp and 95.2 Nm of torque when operating on CNG. It is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission and offers an impressive fuel efficiency of up to 27.1 km/kg
Statement from Hyundai:
Tarun Garg, Whole-Time Director and Chief Operating Officer of Hyundai Motor India Limited, stated, "At HMIL, we are committed to offering smart mobility solutions that cater to the evolving needs of our customers. The introduction of the EX variant in the Hyundai EXTER Hy-CNG Duo lineup is a testament to our customer-centric approach, ensuring that smart mobility is accessible to a wider audience."
With this new variant, Hyundai aims to provide an optimal balance of affordability, efficiency, and safety, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable and innovative mobility solutions.
Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. has inaugurated the Mahindra India Design Studio (MIDS) in Mumbai, marking a significant advancement in the company's design capabilities. This modern facility doubles the size of the previous studio established in 2015 and underscores Mahindra's commitment to design excellence across its Auto, Farm, and Last Mile Mobility (LMM) sectors.
The enhanced MIDS integrates cutting-edge design infrastructure and global best practices, serving as a hub for world-class design talent. It seamlessly combines digital tools with traditional craftsmanship and strengthens collaboration between Mahindra's Indian operations and its global design center, Mahindra Advanced Design Europe (MADE) in the UK.
Ajay Saran Sharma, Senior Vice President of Design and Head of MIDS, highlighted that the expanded studio enhances end-to-end project delivery, encompassing everything from initial concept sketches to production. The addition of functions such as Human-Machine Interface (HMI) Design and Design Quality & Realisation further bolsters its capabilities.
Pratap Bose, Chief Design and Creative Officer at Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., emphasized that the future-ready studio, equipped with world-class technologies and tools, aims to attract top design talent and establish itself as a leading automotive design center in India. The influence of MIDS is expected to be evident in Mahindra's products for years to come.
This strategic investment in MIDS reflects Mahindra's ambition to elevate Indian automotive design on the global stage, with upcoming electric SUVs like the BE 6 and XUV 9e exemplifying this forward-thinking design approach.
This achievement underscores the Creta's sustained popularity and robust market presence. In the fourth quarter of FY 2024-25 (January to March 2025), the Creta maintained its leadership position as the best-selling SUV in India, with cumulative sales reaching 52,898 units. For the entire fiscal year, the model achieved its highest-ever annual sales, totaling 1,94,871 units—a 20% year-on-year growth.
Tarun Garg, Whole-Time Director and Chief Operating Officer of Hyundai Motor India Ltd., commented on this success: "The Hyundai CRETA continues to set new benchmarks in India’s automotive landscape. Its consistent brand leadership in the SUV segment and now as the highest-selling model in March 2025 is a symbol of the strong emotional bond it shares with Indian customers. With over 1.2 million CRETAs on Indian roads and a decade of trust behind it, Hyundai CRETA has become a symbol of innovation, aspiration, and reliability."
A notable trend among buyers is the preference for premium features. Variants equipped with a sunroof accounted for 69% of Creta's total sales, while models featuring connected technologies contributed to 38% of the volume. Additionally, top trims represented 24% of total Creta internal combustion engine (ICE) sales and a significant 71% of Creta Electric sales, indicating a growing consumer inclination towards feature-rich models.
The introduction of the Hyundai Creta Electric has further broadened the model's appeal, reinforcing Hyundai's commitment to sustainable mobility. As a result, SUVs now constitute 68.5% of Hyundai's total domestic sales, up from 63.2% in the previous fiscal year
Celebrating a decade since its launch in 2015, the Hyundai Creta continues to epitomize aspirations, style, and reliability for Indian consumers. With over 1.2 million units on Indian roads, the Creta stands as a trusted and aspirational symbol in the nation's automotive landscape.
Audi India has commenced 2025 with impressive momentum, recording sales of 1,223 units in the first quarter, a 17% increase compared to the same period in 2024. This growth is largely attributed to the strong performance of their luxury SUV models, particularly the Audi Q7 and Q8, which continue to be favorites among Indian consumers
The company's pre-owned vehicle program, Audi Approved: plus, also experienced a significant 23% growth year-on-year in Q1 2025. Operating through 26 facilities nationwide, this initiative caters to the rising demand for certified pre-owned luxury cars in India.
In March, Audi expanded its lineup with the launch of the RS Q8 Performance, the most powerful SUV in its global portfolio. This model has received an enthusiastic response, with bookings filled until the third quarter of 2025.
Balbir Singh Dhillon, Head of Audi India, expressed satisfaction with the company's trajectory, stating, "We are pleased to commence 2025 on a positive note with our result of the first quarter. This growth compared to the previous year same time underscores the confidence our customers have in brand Audi and the strength of our product portfolio."
Audi India's current offerings encompass a diverse range of vehicles, including the Audi A4, A6, Q3, Q3 Sportback, Q5, Q7, Q8, S5 Sportback, RS Q8, Q8 e-tron, Q8 e-tron Sportback, e-tron GT, and RS e-tron GT, catering to various preferences in the luxury car segment.
With a robust product lineup and a focus on customer satisfaction, Audi India is well-positioned to sustain its growth trajectory throughout 2025.
Exterior Design Updates
The facelifted Ioniq 6 features a redesigned front end, highlighted by a shark nose-inspired profile and slimmer LED headlights positioned lower in the bumper. The front bumper has been revised to include a wide grille and air intakes, contributing to a sleeker appearance. The side profile is accentuated by black garnishes on the lower doors, while the rear showcases an LED light bar and a prominent ducktail lip spoiler.
Introduction of the N Line Variant
For the first time, Hyundai has introduced an N Line variant of the Ioniq 6, drawing inspiration from the RN22e concept. This sportier version features aggressively styled front and rear bumpers, distinctive alloy wheels, and extensive black detailing at the rear. The N Line also incorporates a two-dimensional Parametric Pixel taillamp design, enhancing its dynamic aesthetic.
Interior Enhancements
Inside, the updated Ioniq 6 receives a new three-spoke steering wheel, premium door trim materials, and a restyled center console for improved ergonomics. The climate control display has been enlarged for better usability. The cabin continues to offer dual 12.3-inch screens for infotainment and instrumentation, ambient lighting, and vehicle-to-load (V2L) capabilities.
Powertrain and Performance
While specific powertrain updates have not been detailed, the current Ioniq 6 offers 53kWh and 77.4kWh battery options, with power outputs ranging from 149bhp to 320bhp, and both rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive configurations. The introduction of the N Line variant hints at potential performance enhancements in future models.
Hyundai's unveiling of the facelifted Ioniq 6 and its N Line variant underscores the brand's commitment to evolving its electric vehicle offerings, blending aesthetic refinements with potential performance advancements.
The eagerly awaited Tata Sierra EV is progressing towards production, with recent design patent images offering a glimpse into its interior. These images suggest that the final model will closely resemble the concept showcased at Auto Expo 2023
Customization Options
Tata Motors plans to offer various personalization options for the Sierra EV's interior. Potential accessories include moss inserts, mini flower vases for door panels, fold-out tray tables, and ambient lamp shades, allowing owners to tailor the cabin to their preferences.
Seating Configurations
The Sierra EV is expected to be available in multiple seating arrangements. Alongside the standard five-seat layout, a four-seat lounge configuration with ottoman functions for rear passengers is anticipated, enhancing comfort and luxury.
Launch Timeline
Tata Motors aims to launch the Sierra EV by the end of 2025, marking the return of this iconic nameplate with modern electric technology
