At the 2023 Auto Expo, Maruti has showcased its latest Baleno-based SUV, christened Fronx. The carmaker has started accepting bookings for the crossover SUV for Rs 11,000 and is expected to deliver it by mid 2023. It will be available in a total of nine colour options, giving customers ample choice when it comes to personalising their vehicles.
Launch And Price<br>
The vehicle is expected to launch in India by March 2023. The carmaker has priced it from Rs. 8 lakh (ex-showroom) onwards and is expected to be a hit in the market.
Performance<br>
The FRONX will come with two petrol-engine options, giving customers a range of options to choose from. The Maruti FRONX is powered by the 1.2-litre K-Series Dual Jet, Dual VVT engine which generates 89bhp at 6,000rpm and 113Nm of torque at 4,400rpm. This engine is available in both five-speed manual and five-speed AMT options. On the other hand,- a 1.0-litre K-Series turbo petrol engine produces 99bhp at 5,500rpm and 147.6Nm of torque between 2,000rpm and 4,500rpm. turbocharged petrol engine and is available in five-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmission options.
**Features and Safety **<br>
The Fronx is equipped with a range of features that make it stand out from the rest. One of the most notable features of this car is its wireless phone charging pad. This allows you to charge your phone without plugging it into any outlet. The Maruti FRONX comes with a nine-inch infotainment system, heads-up display, cruise control, auto climate control and a 360-degree camera. It offers a spacious and comfortable seating capacity, with plenty of room for five adults and their belonging
In terms of safety, the Maruti Suzuki Fronx is equipped with up to six airbags (Zeta and Alpha variants only), Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Hill Hold Assist (HHA) and Electronic Stability Program (ESP). It comes with advanced features like ESP with hill hold assist and rollover mitigation, ABS with EBD, Brake Assist (BA), and ISOFIX that help keep the car stable on different terrains.
Colour options<br>
Maruti FRONX will be available in six monotone and three dual-tone colour options. The monotone colour options include Nexa Blue, Arctic White, Grandeur Grey, Earthen Brown, Opulent Red, and Splendid Silver. The car also offers three dual-tone colour options including Earthen Brown with Bluish Black, Opulent Red with Bluish Black, and Splendid Silver with Bluish Black. These colour combinations help to make the car look even more attractive and luxurious.
In terms of dimensions, the Fronx has a length of 3,995mm, a width of 1,765mm, and a height of 1,550mm.
Audi has unveiled its new A5, which replaces the long-standing A4. This shift in nomenclature aligns with Audi's strategic approach to naming its models. While electric vehicles (EVs) will bear even numbers, internal combustion engine (ICE) models will be given odd numbers. The new A5 deviates from its predecessor's design as a sleek, four-door coupe and is now available as a sedan and estate.
The new A5 is built on Audi’s cutting-edge Premium Platform Combustion (PPC), which offers a fresh departure from the A4’s 17-year-old MLB architecture. It’s important to note that the PPC is distinct from Audi’s Premium Platform Electric that supports models like the Q6 e-tron and Porsche Macan EV. The A5 still features a longitudinal engine layout but is versatile enough to accommodate various electrified powertrains. According to Autocar UK, the PPC can support range-extender EV powertrains, but Audi has no current plans to introduce such a variant in the A5.
In terms of dimensions, the A5 has grown; it is now 67mm longer (totaling 4.83m) and 13mm wider (measuring 1.86m) compared to the A4. Its wheelbase extends to 2.9m, an increase of 68mm. The design elements of the new A5 include cues borrowed from the A6 e-tron sedan concept, highlighted by flared wheel arches—referred to as ‘Quattro muscle’ by Audi designers—advanced OLED light units capable of displaying up to eight patterns, and visible exhaust tips.
Inside, the A5 shares much of its technological advancements with the Q6 e-tron. The centerpiece is a large curved screen that combines an 11.9-inch digital driver display with a 14.5-inch infotainment touchscreen. This touchscreen also incorporates all climate control and seat heating/ventilation functions. As an optional feature, Audi offers a 10.9-inch touchscreen for the front passenger side, equipped with a filter that prevents the driver from seeing it.
At launch, the new Audi A5 will feature both ICE and 48V mild-hybrid powertrains. The mild-hybrid systems will utilize Audi's new MHEV Plus technology, which incorporates two motor generators, enhancing efficiencies and regenerative braking. This system can now recuperate up to 25kW of energy—significantly more than the previous 8kW limit—and delivers 18kW (24hp) and 230Nm of torque.
The A5 will offer a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine in two states of tune: 150hp and 204hp, with the latter available with the Quattro all-wheel-drive system. The diesel variant will also use a 204hp, 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine coupled with the MHEV Plus system. The top-of-the-line S5 will feature a 3.0-litre V6 engine with the mild-hybrid system, generating an impressive 367hp. A plug-in hybrid variant is expected to join the lineup in international markets by next year.
In the Indian market, the A4 has maintained its presence since its latest iteration launched in January 2021. With prices ranging from Rs 46.02 lakh to Rs 54.58 lakh and a recent update in September 2022, the A4 has enjoyed a steady following. Given Audi India's history with the A4, it is highly probable that the new A5 will eventually make its way to the Indian market. However, it is expected to arrive only in the sedan variant and offer petrol engines. Once launched, the A5 will directly compete with the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and the BMW 3 Series.
Royal Enfield has globally launched its premium modern roadster, the Guerrilla 450. This release marks an important addition to Royal Enfield's lineup, aimed at revitalizing the company's declining sales. Fundamentally based on the Sherpa 450 platform, the Guerrilla 450 shares its robust 452cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine with the Himalayan 450.
The Guerrilla 450 is now available for bookings in both India and Europe. Set at an introductory price of INR 2,39,000 (ex-showroom) in India, test rides and retail sales will commence on August 1, 2024. European customers can expect retail operations to kick off by mid-August.
Under the hood, the Guerrilla 450 boasts a 452cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled Sherpa engine, complete with a 4-valve DOHC setup. This powerhouse generates 40 PS of power at 8,000 rpm and 40 NM of torque at 5,500 rpm. Riders will appreciate the responsive ride, with over 85% of its torque available from just 3,000 rpm. Aiding in temperature management, the engine features a water-cooled system with an integrated water pump, twin-pass radiator, and internal bypass. Paired with a 6-speed gearbox that includes an assist and slip clutch, this roadster ensures a smooth and dynamic riding experience.
The Guerrilla 450 includes a variety of features aimed at enhancing comfort and stability. These include a stepped bench seat, an 11-litre fuel tank, and LED headlights that integrate with the tail lamps for a seamless light display. Structurally, the bike is designed with a steel twin-spar tubular frame. The front suspension is comprised of a 43mm telescopic fork, while the rear sports a linkage-type mono-shock system. Adding to its stability, the motorcycle rides on 17-inch tubeless tires, both front and rear, along with a 1440 mm wheelbase.
Advanced technology is a highlight of the Guerrilla 450. The Engine Management System (EMS) coupled with ride-by-wire technology provides versatile throttle responses through Performance Mode and Eco Mode, allowing riders to adapt to diverse riding conditions with ease. Meanwhile, the Tripper Dash infotainment system measures in at 4 inches, offering features such as GPX format route recording, music control, weather forecasts, and an extensive array of vehicle information. Connectivity is further enhanced by the Royal Enfield Wingman MIY feature.
Royal Enfield offers the Guerrilla 450 in multiple variants and colors. Variants include Analogue, Dash, and Flash, with the August 2024 introductory price list as follows:
The Borderless Warranty Program offered by Royal Enfield provides comprehensive coverage, ensuring peace of mind for Guerrilla 450 owners. In various Latin American markets, the Guerrilla 450 is known as the Royal Enfield GBR 450. Royal Enfield's CEO, B Govindarajan, emphasized the versatile nature of the Sherpa 450 platform, commenting, “When we started with the Sherpa 450 platform, we envisaged an adventure tourer and a superlative roadster that would be distinctly Royal Enfield. Developed in parallel with the Himalayan, the Guerrilla is tuned to perfection for city riding as well as weekend rides through twisty roads.”
The eagerly anticipated Tata Curvv is set to make its grand debut on July 19, 2024. This will be the first production-ready introduction of the SUV-coupe from Tata Motors. Following its debut, the official price announcement is likely to be made on August 7, 2024.
The Tata Curvv is designed to stand out as India's first mass-market SUV-coupe, providing a fresh alternative to conventional midsize SUVs. Its exterior and interior have been crafted meticulously to reflect this novel positioning in the Indian market. Under the hood, the Curvv will feature a new 125hp, 1.2-litre, three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine. Both manual and automatic transmission options will be available, mirroring the adaptable needs of modern consumers. Additionally, the vehicle will come with a powerful 1.5-litre, four-cylinder engine derived from the Nexon.
Looking ahead, Tata Motors is also gearing up to launch an electric variant of the Curvv, expected to boast an impressive range of 450-500 kilometers. The Curvv EV will utilize Tata's Gen 2 acti.ev architecture, although detailed specifications are yet to be disclosed. This forthcoming EV version signifies Tata’s commitment to expanding its electric vehicle portfolio, positioning the Curvv EV between the Nexon EV and the upcoming Harrier EV.
The pricing for the Tata Curvv EV is anticipated to start at around Rs 20 lakh, expected to be officially announced on August 7. In the lineup of Tata’s electric offerings, it will reside above the Nexon EV but below the soon-to-be-launched Harrier EV. As for the internal combustion engine (ICE) version, it's slated to launch after the EV variant and could be priced in the range of Rs 10 lakh to Rs 11 lakh.
The Curvv is strategically positioned to take on multiple competitors in both its electric and ICE forms. The Curvv EV will go head-to-head with upcoming models like the Hyundai Creta EV, Maruti eVX, and even the MG ZS EV. On the other hand, the ICE version will compete robustly with current midsize SUVs such as the Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Honda Elevate, and Hyundai Creta.
In addition to the Curvv announcement, Tata Motors is also offering substantial discounts on its Harrier and Safari models, with discounts reaching up to Rs 1.33 lakh this July.
The Toyota GR86 Hakone Edition has made a triumphant return, featuring notable improvements in handling and updates to its features. This special edition stands out with its captivating Ridge Green paint, completing its look with a flatter finish compared to its predecessor, thus diminishing the overly shiny appearance of the original model.
Introduced in 2020 for the American market, the Hakone Edition pays homage to the renowned Hakone Turnpike in Japan. Based on the redesigned GR86, which was recently unveiled for the Japanese market, this unique edition has been revived for the model year 2025. Sticking closely to the design strategy of the 2020 model, the Hakone Edition is built on the Toyota GR86 Premium grade and is finished in the striking Ridge Green color. This revival follows last year's Trueno edition, bringing with it a Performance package that includes enhanced dampers and brakes.
In terms of design, the Hakone Edition boasts a Ridge Green paint job, just like its 2020 counterpart. The flatter finish adds a matt-like feel, toning down the shininess of the original. The aesthetic is completed with a color-matched prominent ducktail spoiler at the rear, a distinctive Hakone badge, and 18-inch satin bronze wheels.
Inside the Toyota GR86 Hakone Edition, luxurious tan leather and Ultrasuede upholstery upgrade the sports seats. Additional interior improvements include a new shift knob and a GR special edition plaque. The Performance Pack enhances the car with modified Brembo brakes that feature the requisite red calipers and Sachs dampers.
As a special edition based on the Premium trim level of the GR86, the Hakone Edition comes standard with a six-speed manual gearbox, with a six-speed automatic gearbox also available as an option. The Performance Pack, which first appeared with last year's Trueno edition, includes larger-diameter rotor Brembo brakes and Sachs dampers for improved performance compared to the regular model.
The enhancements are not limited to the Hakone Edition alone. Toyota has also made significant updates to the entire GR86 lineup for the 2025 model year. The company has introduced new shock absorbers to improve handling, along with engine torque management for better throttle responsiveness and linearity. Throttle mapping has been refined to ease blipping for vehicles with manual gearboxes, and the electric power steering has been adjusted for greater responsiveness.
Powering the GR86 Hakone Edition is the same 2.4-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine that produces 225bhp and 249Nm of torque. This engine is paired with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission, and a Torsen limited-slip differential is standard across both models. Manual transmission models come with a Track option to enhance performance, while automatic versions get a new Sport mode for better shifting dynamics.
While the exact pricing details for the Hakone Edition and the rest of the 2025 GR86 models remain undisclosed, the Hakone Edition is confirmed to be limited to 860 units in the United States. We anticipate more information on pricing before these models go on sale in the fall.
Hyundai has officially unveiled the Exter CNG, featuring new dual-cylinder technology, starting at ₹8.50 lakh. This makes Hyundai the second automaker in India to adopt this advanced setup for its CNG vehicles, following in the footsteps of Tata Motors.
Dubbed the Exter Hy-CNG Duo, this SUV is distinct due to its incorporation of two small CNG cylinders instead of one large unit. This configuration not only optimizes boot space but also enhances the vehicle’s overall utility. Accompanying this update, the price for both the Exter S CNG and SX CNG variants will see an increase of ₹7,000. The latest Knight edition of the CNG variant is priced at ₹9.38 lakh.
The Exter CNG utilizes the same 1.2-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine found in its standard counterpart. However, when running on CNG, the engine produces 69 hp and 95.2 Nm of torque. The model is paired exclusively with a 5-speed manual gearbox and offers a claimed fuel efficiency of 27.1 km/kg.
The Exter CNG is pioneering Hyundai’s move into dual-cylinder technology for its CNG lineup. Mini-SUVs like the Grand i10 Nios CNG and the Aura CNG are anticipated to soon adopt similar setups. This initiative brings Hyundai in line with Tata Motors, whose Altroz, Tiago, and Tigor models, along with Exter's direct competitor Punch, already feature this technology.
For the first time, Skoda is making its mark in the sub 4m SUV market. The new compact SUV is set to rival established models like the Tata Nexon, Maruti Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Mahindra XUV300, Renault Kiger, and Nissan Magnite. With its first teaser already piquing interest, Skoda has now released a second teaser, revealing more of what can be expected from this highly anticipated vehicle.
Skoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited (SAVIPL) is currently in discussions regarding the sale of its stakes and is actively seeking a local partner to help share the financial load. Despite these talks, Skoda remains firmly committed to its roadmap for the Indian market. As part of this strategy, the company is gearing up to introduce its all-new small SUV.
Skoda describes the new sub 4m SUV as “Modern, Bold, and Muscular.” Initially announced earlier this year in February 2024, this SUV is set to launch in 2025 as the most affordable offering from the brand. Positioned on the MQB A0 IN platform, similar to its larger sibling Kushaq, this new entrant is designed to deliver the dynamics, handling, and road manners of a larger vehicle while still benefiting from B-Segment tax advantages due to its sub 4m length. The teaser highlights the SUV’s rear, showcasing its bold and muscular shapes around the rear fenders. It is evident that Skoda is implementing its “Modern Solid” design language for the first time in India, which features reduced lines and creases. This design approach not only allows for more efficient production processes but also keeps costs in check. High ground clearance and ample space around the wheels add to the car’s strong stance, ensuring an enhanced road presence that will appeal to the target demographic.
SAVIPL is enthusiastic about expanding its portfolio and achieving sustained growth in India by venturing into the sub 4m SUV segment, which holds significant sales potential. The upcoming small SUV will be built with local suppliers and high production standards to ensure quality.
In discussing the latest teaser, Petr Janeba, Brand Director of Škoda Auto India, stated: “We began 2024 with the announcement of our all-new compact SUV. Midway through 2024, we are well on track. Our compact SUV is undergoing rigorous testing on our roads across India, and we are continuously enhancing the finer nuances together with our production preparations, high competencies, and quality local supplier partner ramp-ups. The new Compact SUV will truly democratize our European technology on Indian roads.
"As it is based on a larger car platform, our compact SUV will have the ‘big car’ feel within a compact footprint and thus have a great appeal for new car buyers, in line with our brand commitment to India, as the most important market for Škoda Auto outside Europe. A majority of the Škoda cars produced outside Europe are manufactured in our local factories, and we are exporting locally produced Škoda cars to 14 countries.”
Skoda is making impressive strides in the Indian automotive market with its upcoming small SUV. The second teaser release only heightens anticipation as the company prepares to introduce a vehicle that promises to combine European technology with local sensibilities. As SAVIPL continues to focus on growth and quality production, the new compact SUV is positioned to be a strong contender in the sub 4m SUV segment.
The 2025 Porsche Panamera has impressively set a new lap record for luxury sedans at the legendary Nurburgring circuit in Germany. This feat was achieved by the top-of-the-line Panamera model, surpassing its predecessor's performance. The new generation Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid, piloted by Porsche test driver Lars Kern, clocked a stunning time of 7:24.17 minutes on the 20.82-kilometer track, shaving off 5.64 seconds from the previous best.
Several key enhancements have contributed to this remarkable performance improvement. The 2025 Panamera benefits notably from the Porsche Active Ride chassis and the Carbon Aerokit. These advancements ensure that the vehicle maintains optimal road contact, providing superior body control and cornering ability. The optional Carbon Aerokit notably reduces lift on the front axle, which maximizes performance by producing downforce through an adjustable 4-way rear spoiler Gurney flap, thereby improving aerodynamic balance.
Commenting on the achievement, Lars Kern highlighted the importance of the new Porsche Active Ride chassis. He said, "The new Porsche Active Ride chassis has made a particularly important contribution. The vehicle always remains parallel to the road, and the cornering stability and body stability are at a completely new level. As a driver, this gives me a good feeling and further underlines that our development not only offers comfort during everyday driving but also makes a real difference on the Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit. No other Porsche offers such a wide range between comfort and sportiness. The new Panamera combines the positive characteristics of an exclusive sedan with the behavior of a sports car."
From a design perspective, the new generation Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid stands out with its wider front splitter and black trim elements around the taillights and front bumper. The pre-production prototype, which had no camouflage, sported 21-inch center-locking rims with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires: 325/30 ZR21 at the rear and 275/35 ZR21 at the front. Porsche asserts that aside from a safety roll cage and the driver's race seat, the car used in the record attempt remains largely identical to the factory model.
Porsche is claiming that the Panamera is currently the fastest luxury sedan available with an internal combustion engine (ICE) or hybrid drivetrain. Although specific details have not been revealed, it is anticipated that the new Panamera top model, likely the Turbo S E-Hybrid, will generate more power than the standard Turbo E-Hybrid's 661bhp. It is expected to be in the range of the mechanically related Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid's 719bhp, derived from an electrified twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 engine.
For further updates, you can follow more automotive releases and reviews. Also, check out new announcements like the Porsche Taycan Facelift available in India starting at Rs 1.89 Crore, and the new Porsche 911, launched at Rs 1.99 Crore with open bookings.
The highly anticipated launch of the Mahindra Thar 5-door is looming closer as new undisguised images of the vehicle have surfaced online. The leaked images primarily reveal the front end of this production-ready SUV, showing off some intriguing design changes and new features.
From the latest images, it is evident that the new Mahindra Thar 5-door will sport a redesigned grille, which now features six double-stacked slots instead of the seven-slot design seen in the current 3-door Thar. The circular headlamps characteristic of the Thar remain, but now they boast an LED projector setup coupled with C-shaped daytime running lights (DRLs).
Another notable observation is the presence of a camera on the wing mirror, which indicates the inclusion of a 360-degree camera system. There’s also a unique placement for the rear door handle situated on the door frame, a design element reminiscent of the previous-generation Maruti Suzuki Swift.
While these are the first clear images of the uncamouflaged 5-door Thar, previous spottings have hinted at more exciting features. The Thar 5-door is expected to come with dual 10.25-inch displays, providing a digital instrument cluster and an infotainment system. In addition to this, the ladder-on-frame SUV will feature a panoramic sunroof. Higher-end variants are also anticipated to include Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), a technology already available in other Mahindra models like the XUV300 and the XUV700.
The Mahindra Thar 5-door will come with diverse powertrain options to cater to a range of preferences. Buyers will have the choice of three engine options: a 1.5-litre entry-level diesel engine, a 2.2-litre diesel, and a 2.0-litre petrol unit. These engines will be available with both manual and automatic transmission options. The vehicle will continue to offer both rear-wheel-drive and 4WD configurations, similar to the 3-door Thar currently on the market.
It's speculated that Mahindra might unveil the 5-door Thar on August 15, echoing the debut of the 3-door Thar in 2020. Production is already underway, and some dealers have started accepting unofficial bookings, signaling that the official launch might not be too far off. The new model is likely to be named the Mahindra Thar Armada upon launch.
When it enters the market, the Mahindra Thar 5-door will find itself in direct competition with the Force Gurkha 5-door and the Maruti Suzuki Jimny. It will also rival a wider array of midsize SUVs, such as the Kia Seltos and Hyundai Creta.
The road price for the Mahindra Thar starts from ₹ 11,46,967 in New Delhi, positioning it as a competitive option in its segment.
With the anticipation building around the Mahindra Thar 5-door, it is poised to stir the SUV market, offering a blend of rugged aesthetics, advanced technology, and versatile performance. Stay tuned for more updates and the official launch details from Mahindra.
