Understanding AVAS and Its Importance
Electric and hybrid vehicles, like the Innova Hycross Hybrid, often operate silently, especially at lower speeds or in electric-only mode. While this reduces noise pollution, it poses a risk to pedestrians who may not hear these vehicles approaching. AVAS addresses this concern by emitting a sound to alert pedestrians of the vehicle's presence, thereby reducing potential accidents.
Availability in Innova Hycross Variants
The AVAS feature is now integrated into the strong hybrid variants of the Innova Hycross, specifically the VX, VX(O), ZX, and ZX(O) trims. This addition aligns the Innova Hycross with other models in the market, such as the Maruti Grand Vitara, which also offers AVAS to enhance pedestrian safety.
Comprehensive Safety Features
Beyond AVAS, the Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid is equipped with a suite of safety features, including:
Tata Motors has achieved a significant milestone by surpassing 200,000 electric vehicle (EV) sales in India. To commemorate this achievement, the company is offering special benefits to both existing and new customers for the next 45 days.
Special Offers:
Tata Motors' EV lineup features models such as the Tiago EV, Tigor EV, Punch EV, Nexon EV, and the Curvv EV. The company continues to expand its electric offerings, with upcoming models like the Harrier EV and the iconic Sierra EV, showcased at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo.
These initiatives underscore Tata Motors'commitment to promoting sustainable mobility solutions in India.
At the 2025 Indonesia International Motor Show, Toyota unveiled an evolved version of the Innova EV concept, based on the Innova Crysta platform. This iteration features updated LED headlights and taillights, a closed-off grille, and retains the current model's alloy wheels. Inside, modifications include an EV-specific instrument cluster and a button-based gear selector, replacing the traditional gear lever.
The concept is powered by a 59.3 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, delivering 179 horsepower and an impressive 700 Nm of torque. While Toyota has not disclosed official range figures, these specifications suggest a potential range of approximately 350-400 kilometers on a single charge.
Despite showcasing the Innova EV concept, Toyota has not announced plans to bring this electric MPV to the Indian market. Currently, the Innova Crysta is available exclusively with a diesel powertrain in India, priced between ₹19.99 lakh and ₹26.82 lakh (ex-showroom).
Introducing an electric variant of the Innova in India could be a strategic move, considering the model's longstanding popularity and the limited options for electric MPVs in the market. However, as of now, the Innova EV remains a conceptual showcase with no confirmed production plans for the Indian market.
Toyota has reintroduced the Land Cruiser 300 to the Indian market, with prices starting at ₹2.31 crore (ex-showroom). The 2025 lineup includes the off-road-focused GR-S variant, expanding options for enthusiasts. Bookings for both the ZX and GR-S trims are now open across Toyota dealerships nationwide.
Design and Features
The Land Cruiser 300 boasts a commanding, boxy design, available in two exterior colors: Precious White Pearl and Attitude Black. The front fascia features a prominent grille with a chrome accent running beneath horizontally-slatted three-pod LED headlamps. The GR-S variant distinguishes itself with blacked-out alloy wheels, GR badging, and a unique black and red interior theme.
Inside, the SUV is equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a digital driver's display, four-zone climate control, a sunroof, and ventilated seats for both front and rear passengers. The driver's seat offers 8-way power adjustability for enhanced comfort.
Performance and Safety
Powering the Land Cruiser 300 is a 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 diesel engine that delivers 309 horsepower and 700 Nm of peak torque. This engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, channeling power to all four wheels through a full-time 4WD system.
The vehicle is equipped with advanced safety features, including Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), 10 airbags, a 360-degree camera, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, autonomous emergency braking, and adaptive headlights. Additional off-road capabilities are enhanced by front and rear differential locks, a rear limited-slip differential, hill-start assist, hill descent control, crawl control, various terrain modes, and a sophisticated four-camera off-road monitoring system.
With its blend of luxury, performance, and advanced safety features, the 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser 300 aims to set a new benchmark in the premium SUV segment in India.
To commemorate their triumphant 2024 Formula 1 Constructors' Championship victory, McLaren has unveiled the ultra-exclusive MCL38 Celebration Editions of the Artura and 750S models. Limited to just nine units each, these vehicles pay homage to the championship-winning MCL38 F1 car
Distinctive Design and Features
Both the Artura and 750S MCL38 Celebration Editions showcase a bespoke livery crafted by McLaren Special Operations (MSO), featuring the iconic Papaya Orange and Anthracite color scheme reminiscent of the MCL38 F1 car. Additional design elements include the 'Nine-Star' logo and Champions’ Laurel, symbolizing McLaren's nine Constructors' titles. Notably, each vehicle is equipped with a dedication plaque containing an authentic piece of carbon fiber from the actual MCL38 F1 car, offering owners a tangible piece of racing history.
Interior Enhancements
Inside, the Celebration Editions feature Visual Carbon Fiber Extended Sill Covers on the driver's side, signed by McLaren F1 drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. The Champions’ Laurel is elegantly embroidered on the seat headrests, further emphasizing the connection to the championship-winning team.
Availability
With only 18 units in total—nine Arturas and nine 750S—these MCL38 Celebration Editions are poised to become coveted collector's items, blending McLaren's racing heritage with their cutting-edge automotive technology
2025 Porsche 911 Recall: Headlight Glare Issue
The first recall involves 878 units of the 2025 Porsche 911. A software error in the front-end electronics control module may cause the low beam headlights to produce glare for oncoming traffic. This issue arises when the rear fog light is activated at speeds below 60 km/h (37 mph), causing a slight misalignment in the driver's side low beam. Porsche plans to address this by updating the software, with owner notifications expected in early to mid-April.
2023 Porsche 911 Recall: Rear Seat Belt Bolt Concern
The second recall affects 279 units of the 2023 Porsche 911. In these vehicles, rear seat belt buckle bolts may not have been properly tightened due to mispositioned aluminum butyl mats during certain production shifts. This could lead to the bolts loosening over time, potentially compromising seat belt effectiveness in a collision. Porsche will inspect and, if necessary, tighten the rear seat belt buckle bolts and reposition the soundproofing mats. Owners will be notified in April.
BMW Motorrad is set to expand its GS lineup with the introduction of the F 450 GS, a mid-weight adventure motorcycle designed to bridge the gap between the G 310 GS and the F 850 GS. This new model is expected to make its global debut at the 2025 EICMA in November, with production commencing shortly thereafter.
Manufacturing and Pricing
In a strategic move to optimize production and pricing, BMW has partnered with TVS Motor Company to manufacture the F 450 GS at TVS's Hosur facility in India. This collaboration aims to offer the motorcycle at a competitive price point, with estimates suggesting a starting price around ₹5 lakh (ex-showroom).
Design and Features
The F 450 GS draws inspiration from its larger GS siblings, featuring a sharp beak, golden USD forks, a prominent windscreen, and a distinctive headlamp assembly. Additional design elements include a sculpted fuel tank, knuckle guards, an under-seat exhaust, and wire-spoke wheels equipped with knobby tires. The motorcycle is engineered for agility, boasting a lightweight profile with a total weight of 175 kg.
Engine and Performance
Powering the F 450 GS is a newly developed 450cc parallel-twin engine, delivering 48 horsepower. This powertrain is designed to provide robust performance across various terrains, catering to both on-road and off-road enthusiasts. The motorcycle is expected to come equipped with advanced rider aids, including multiple ride modes, traction control, and switchable ABS, enhancing both safety and versatility.
Market Positioning
Upon its launch, the BMW F 450 GS will enter a competitive segment, rivaling models such as the KTM 390 Adventure, Honda NX500, and the upcoming Aprilia Tuareg 457. Its blend of premium features, performance capabilities, and strategic pricing is poised to attract a wide range of adventure motorcycling enthusiasts.
Suzuki plans to revive the iconic Cappuccino roadster by late 2026, collaborating with Toyota and Daihatsu for a modern take on the classic kei car.
Suzuki is reportedly planning a revival of its iconic Cappuccino roadster, with an anticipated launch in late 2026. This new iteration is expected to be developed in collaboration with Toyota and Daihatsu, marking a significant evolution from its original kei car roots.
Expanded Dimensions and Performance
Departing from the compact dimensions of the 1990s model, the forthcoming Cappuccino is projected to measure approximately 3,895 mm in length, positioning it as a direct competitor to the Mazda MX-5 Miata. Under the hood, it may house a Toyota-sourced 1.3-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, delivering between 120 and 150 horsepower to the rear wheels. Transmission options are likely to include both manual and automatic variants.
Collaborative Development and Design
This revival is part of a joint initiative among Suzuki, Toyota, and Daihatsu, aiming to produce a trio of small, rear-wheel-drive sports cars. While these models are expected to share structural components to optimize development costs, each brand will infuse its unique design elements to maintain distinct identities. For Suzuki, this could mean incorporating styling cues from its current lineup, such as the Swift.
Market Positioning
By expanding its size and performance capabilities, the new Cappuccino seeks to attract enthusiasts desiring an affordable, lightweight sports car experience. Its reintroduction could invigorate the compact sports car segment, offering a fresh alternative to established models like the Mazda MX-5.
While official details from Suzuki remain forthcoming, the prospect of the Cappuccino's return has generated considerable excitement among automotive enthusiasts. As the anticipated launch approaches, more concrete information is expected to emerge, shedding light on this modern reinterpretation of a classic roadster.
Tesla is advancing its plans to enter the Indian market by initiating recruitment for key positions and exploring locations for company-owned dealerships, a departure from the traditional franchise model prevalent in India. This move aligns with Tesla's global strategy of maintaining direct control over sales and service operations.
Recruitment and Dealership Plans
The company has posted job openings for various roles, including sales, service, and customer support, primarily based in Mumbai. This suggests that Tesla is establishing a comprehensive 3S (Sales, Service, and Spares) facility in the city. Additionally, Tesla has been scouting for showroom spaces in New Delhi and Mumbai, aiming for locations ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 square feet to serve as customer experience centers.
Strategic Developments
These initiatives follow a recent meeting between Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the United States, where discussions likely encompassed Tesla's investment and operational plans in India. Previously, Tesla had sought tax concessions to import vehicles into India but faced challenges due to high import duties. The Indian government has since shown openness to policy adjustments, potentially facilitating Tesla's market entry.
Implications for the Indian Automotive Market
Tesla's direct-to-consumer approach could significantly impact the Indian automotive landscape, setting new standards for customer experience and service. While specific models and launch timelines have yet to be officially announced, the company's recent activities indicate a concerted effort to establish a strong presence in India.
