Potential buyers can already reserve the revamped Sonet at Rs 25,000. The new Sonet coming to the dealerships has got some noteworthy exterior updates, such as a remodeled grille, more distinct LED headlights, and Daytime Running Lights (DRLs).
Moving to the interior, the new Sonet offers a refashioned climate control panel, alongside a digital driver display that resembles the one in the Seltos model. The facelift also offers upgraded features like a semi-powered driver's seat, a 360-degree camera, and an Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS).
The revamped Sonet model will be available with both petrol and diesel powertrain versions. The diesel-manual transmission, which was taken out of the mix in early 2023, will be reintroduced in this variant.
To give a refresher on the new Sonet's design - both exterior and interior, it's interesting to note that the reshaping has taken place majorly on the car's exterior and relatively less on the interior. The exterior changes include an overhaul of its grille, tail lights, and bumpers, with updated alloy wheels. Depending on the chosen trim - Tech Line, GT Line, or X-Line, the design of the alloys differ.
The refreshed interior design bears a lot of resemblance to the previous model with slight changes like a redesigned climate control panel. However, old features like sunroof, wireless phone charging, front seat ventilation, and cruise control have been retained. Other additions include a 10.25-inch digital driver's display resembling the Seltos and a semi-powered driver's seat inspired by the Hyundai Venue.
Going under the hood, the new Sonet will host a range of powertrains, including a 1.2-litre petrol, 1-litre turbo-petrol, and a 1.5-litre diesel variant.
With this new facelift, the Sonet is set to draw competition from the likes of the Hyundai Venue, Maruti Brezza, Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV300, Nissan Magnite, Renault Kiger, and the compact crossover Maruti Fronx.
Despite all the above updates, the carmaker is yet to disclose the diesel manual's claimed mileage figure.
The new Sonet is a highly anticipated SUV that packs fresh design updates and new features. With its impending launch, many eyes are eagerly waiting to see if the facelifted Sonet will outshine its competitors.
Tata Motors is set to significantly enhance India's electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, aiming to more than double the number of charging points to 400,000 by 2027. This ambitious plan involves collaboration with Charge Point Operators (CPOs) and Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to establish an additional 30,000 public chargers accessible to all EV brands. The expansion will prioritize strategic locations, including highways, metropolitan areas, and emerging EV hubs.
Since 2019, Tata Motors has been actively deploying home and public charging solutions in partnership with Tata Group companies. In 2023, the company launched the 'Open Collaboration' framework, joining forces with various CPOs and OMCs to accelerate the development of a nationwide charging network. This initiative led to a rapid increase in public charging stations, surpassing 18,000 within 15 months. To date, Tata Motors has facilitated the installation of over 150,000 home chargers, 2,500 community chargers, and 750 dealership-based charging points across 200 cities.
In addition to expanding the charging network, Tata Motors is introducing 'TATA.ev Mega Chargers' in key cities and along major highways. These high-capacity chargers will be available to all EV users, with TATA.ev customers receiving priority access and preferential rates. The company has signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with leading CPOs, including Tata Power, ChargeZone, Statiq, and Zeon, to deploy 500 Mega Chargers within the next two years
Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility, stated, "Through 'Open Collaboration 2.0,' we aim to grow the charging network to over 400,000 points in the next two years. This expansion will improve charging speed, reliability, and accessibility while fostering the growth of charge point operators."
This comprehensive strategy underscores Tata Motors' commitment to bolstering the EV ecosystem in India, addressing concerns about charging infrastructure, and encouraging more consumers to transition to electric mobility.
Mahindra has expanded its BE 6 electric SUV lineup with the introduction of the 'Pack One Above' variant, positioned just above the base model. Priced at ₹20.50 lakh (ex-showroom), this variant offers a blend of enhanced features and performance.
Key Features of the BE 6 Pack One Above:
Exterior:
The BE 6 Pack One Above is equipped with a 59 kWh battery pack powering a rear-axle-mounted electric motor. This setup delivers 231 PS of power and 380 Nm of torque, offering a claimed range of 557 km on a single charge. The drivetrain configuration is rear-wheel drive (RWD).
Comparison with Higher Variants:
While the Pack One Above variant offers a comprehensive set of features, it omits certain amenities available in higher trims, such as:
The Mahindra BE 6 Pack One Above is competitively priced at ₹20.50 lakh, with the overall BE 6 lineup ranging from ₹18.90 lakh to ₹26.90 lakh. In the Indian electric SUV market, it competes with models like the Hyundai Creta Electric, Tata Curvv EV, MG ZS EV, and the forthcoming Maruti e-Vitara.This new variant aims to provide consumers with a balanced mix of performance, comfort, and safety features, catering to those seeking a mid-tier electric SUV option.
The MG Windsor has swiftly become a standout in the electric vehicle (EV) market since its debut in September 2024, consistently achieving monthly sales exceeding 3,000 units. This impressive performance positions it as the top-selling EV in its segment.
Design and Aesthetics
The Windsor's design is a harmonious blend of various automotive styles, incorporating elements from MPVs, hatchbacks, and SUVs. Its clean lines and smooth surfaces suggest a design refined in a wind tunnel. The vehicle's mono-volume silhouette and substantial width of 1,850mm—surpassing even the MG Hector—grant it a commanding road presence. Features like 18-inch wheels, a horizontal daytime running lamp strip, an illuminated MG logo, and pop-out door handles enhance its modern aesthetic.
Interior Comfort and Features
Inside, the Windsor offers a minimalist yet functional design. The wide-opening doors and tall stance facilitate easy ingress and egress. The cabin is spacious, with ample headroom and legroom, and the flat floor design enhances comfort for rear passengers. The dashboard features a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 7-inch digital instrument cluster. Ambient lighting and quality materials contribute to a premium feel, though some areas could benefit from improved insulation to reduce road noise.
Performance and Driving Experience
The Windsor is powered by a 50.3kWh battery pack, delivering a claimed range of 350 km on a single charge. Its electric motor produces 143 PS and 250 Nm of torque, enabling smooth and responsive acceleration. The vehicle handles city driving adeptly, with a light steering feel and a tight turning radius. However, the ride can feel stiff over rough surfaces, and cabin insulation could be improved to enhance overall comfort.
Pricing and Conclusion
The MG Windsor is priced competitively, starting at ₹13.50 lakh and going up to ₹15.50 lakh. With the Battery as a Service (BaaS) scheme, the starting price is even more attractive at ₹9.99 lakh. This pricing strategy undercuts other EVs in the segment, such as the Tata Nexon EV and the Mahindra XUV400. Despite minor drawbacks like cabin insulation and ride stiffness, the Windsor's appealing design, spacious interior, and smooth driving experience make it a compelling choice for those seeking an affordable and practical electric vehicle.
In summary, MG has delivered a well-rounded EV with the Windsor, offering excellent value for money and addressing the needs of modern urban drivers.
In a remarkable demonstration of engineering prowess, Tata Motors' Curvv compact SUV has successfully towed a Boeing 737 aircraft weighing 48,000 kg. This feat was achieved using the Curvv's 1.2-liter Hyperion GDI petrol engine, which produces 125 PS of power and 225 Nm of torque. The event took place at the AIESL Hangar in Thiruvananthapuram, where the Curvv pulled the aircraft for a distance of 100 meters, setting a new record recognized by the India Book of Records.
This accomplishment underscores the structural integrity of the Curvv's ATLAS platform and highlights the capabilities of its Hyperion engine. Notably, this is the second instance of a Tata vehicle towing a Boeing 737; previously, the Tata Hexa, equipped with a 2.2-liter turbo diesel engine, performed a similar feat.
The Curvv's achievement is particularly impressive given its monocoque construction and smaller engine displacement compared to the Hexa's ladder-frame design and larger engine. This demonstration not only showcases Tata Motors' engineering excellence but also emphasizes the durability and performance potential of the Tata Curvv's design and powertrain.
MG Motor India is set to expand its premium footprint by establishing 14 'MG Select' dealerships across 13 major cities in the country. This strategic move aims to introduce and promote MG's luxury vehicle lineup to a broader audience.
Cities and Dealerships
The first phase of this expansion will see 'MG Select' dealerships in the following cities:
An all-electric roadster equipped with a 77 kWh battery pack, offering a WLTP-certified range of 443 km. Its dual-motor setup delivers 510 PS and 725 Nm, enabling acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.2 seconds. The Cyberster is expected to be priced around ₹80 lakh, with a 'Battery as a Service' (BaaS) option potentially reducing the cost to approximately ₹50 lakh. Pre-bookings are currently open, with a launch anticipated in March 2025.
MG M9:
Known globally as the Mifa 9, this premium electric MPV boasts features like ventilated, heated, and massaging seats for both front and second-row passengers. It made its Indian debut at the Auto Expo 2025 and is expected to cater to the luxury MPV segment.
These initiatives reflect MG Motor India's commitment to enhancing its presence in the luxury automotive market by offering innovative and premium vehicles through a dedicated dealership network.
Mahindra has officially opened bookings for its much-anticipated electric SUVs, the BE 6 and XEV 9e, starting today, February 14, 2025, at 9 AM IST. Customers can reserve their preferred model and variant through the official Mahindra Electric SUV website.
Pricing and Variants
The BE 6 is available in five variants, while the XEV 9e comes in four. Both models offer a choice between 59 kWh and 79 kWh battery packs, with prices ranging from ₹18.90 lakh to ₹30.50 lakh (ex-showroom).
Delivery Timeline
Deliveries will commence in a phased manner:
Kia is gearing up to unveil three new electric vehicles at its upcoming EV Day on February 27, 2025, in Tarragona, Spain. The event will showcase the production-ready EV4 and PV5, along with the concept EV2, all embodying Kia's "Opposites United" design philosophy
EV4:
The kia EV4 is anticipated to debut in both sedan and hatchback configurations. Speculations suggest it will offer two battery options—58.3 kWh and 81.4 kWh—paired with a single front-wheel-drive electric motor producing 201 bhp and 283 Nm of torque. Design elements include a long, tapering bonnet, sloping rear roofline, vertically arranged LED headlights, and geometric alloy wheels.
Kia PV5:
The PV5 is an electric van featuring a neo-retro, futuristic design reminiscent of the VW ID. Buzz. It boasts a boxy silhouette with distinctive lighting elements. The interior is designed for flexibility, allowing for various seating configurations or expanded cargo space. It's expected to share powertrain options with the EV4 and may launch by late 2025 or early 2026.
Kia EV2 Concept:
The EV2 will be Kia's smallest global electric car to date, making its debut in concept form. Spy shots from South Korea reveal a sub-4-meter vehicle with vertically arranged split LED headlights. It's expected to feature smaller battery packs than the EV4 and may share components with the recently launched Syros ICE SUV in India.
These unveilings underscore Kia's commitment to expanding its electric vehicle lineup, catering to a diverse range of consumer preferences and needs.
Volkswagen's Performance:
Total Sales: Volkswagen sold 3,344 units in January 2025, marking a 2% YoY increase from 3,267 units in January 2024. However, this represented a 30% decrease from the 4,787 units sold in December 2024.
Model-wise Breakdown:
