The much-anticipated Kawasaki Ninja 500 has been launched in India, carrying a price tag of Rs 5.24 lakh. The same price as its predecessor, the Ninja 400, the bike boasts a powerful liquid-cooled, 451cc, parallel-twin engine that also powers the Eliminator 500 cruiser and Kawasaki's innovative Ninja 7 hybrid motorcycle. The Ninja 500's identical price to the Ninja 400, which currently offers a Rs 40,000 discount, suggests that the 500 may eventually replace the 400 in the Indian market.
This newly unveiled bike is heavier than the Ninja 400, at 171 kilograms, but remains lighter than competitors such as the Aprilia RS 457 and the KTM RC 390. Despite the slight increase in weight, the Ninja 500 isn't substantially heavier than the Yamaha R3. The new bike is not much different from the previous one in terms of look, but it's remarkably similar to new-age Kawasaki sport bikes like the ZX-6R and even the Ninja 7 Hybrid.
On the other hand, this standard model–the up-spec SE–boasts a negative LCD dash with Bluetooth connectivity and an all-black colour scheme but lacks the SE variant's keyless ignition. With the same cycle parts as the Ninja 400, this powerful machine also includes the standard dual-channel ABS. With a seat height of 785mm, the Ninja 500 is an ideal choice for shorter riders. Kawasaki also provides an optional accessory tall seat, which increases the seat height by 30mm to 815mm.
However, the asking price of the Kawasaki Ninja 500, when compared to competitors such as the Yamaha R3, Aprilia RS 457, and KTM RC 390, seems steep. The motorcycle's ability to outdo its rivals despite the price difference will heavily depend on its performance and the brand's customer base. Prospective buyers can now book the bike across Kawasaki dealerships in India, with deliveries expected to begin by the end of this month.
Volvo has unveiled the refreshed XC60 SUV for the 2025 model year, introducing a series of design enhancements and technological upgrades. This updated model is slated for release in various global markets, including an anticipated launch in India.
Exterior Design Updates
The 2025 XC60 features subtle yet impactful exterior modifications. Notably, the front grille now showcases diagonal slats, replacing the previous vertical design, and the front bumper has been restyled with redesigned air intakes. The SUV also offers new alloy wheel designs and introduces two additional color options: Forest Lake and Aurora Silver.
Interior and Infotainment Enhancements
Inside the cabin, the XC60 receives a significant upgrade with an 11.2-inch freestanding infotainment touchscreen. This new system, powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon Cockpit Platform, delivers improved graphics and responsiveness, and supports over-the-air updates. The user interface has been redesigned for a more intuitive experience, integrating seamlessly with Google services
Performance and Powertrain
The updated XC60 continues to offer a range of powertrain options, including mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants. These configurations aim to provide a balance between performance and efficiency, catering to diverse customer preferences.
Anticipated India Launch
Given the XC60's popularity in the Indian market, Volvo plans to introduce the 2025 facelifted model in India, with an expected launch in the latter half of the year. This aligns with Volvo's strategy to offer its latest global models to Indian consumers promptly.
Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India has launched the 2025 Hornet 2.0, priced at ₹1,56,953 (ex-showroom). This latest iteration brings significant updates in design, technology, and performance.
Design and Features
The 2025 Hornet 2.0 introduces refreshed graphics and four new color options: Pearl Igneous Black, Radiant Red Metallic, Athletic Blue Metallic, and Matt Axis Gray Metallic. A significant enhancement is the inclusion of a 4.2-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity via the Honda RoadSync app, offering turn-by-turn navigation, call alerts, and SMS notifications. The motorcycle maintains its all-LED lighting system, hazard light switch, and USB Type-C charging port
Performance and Compliance
Powering the Hornet 2.0 is the familiar 184.4cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine, now updated to meet OBD2B emission standards. The engine delivers 17PS at 8,500rpm and 15.7Nm of torque at 6,000rpm, slightly reduced from the previous model's 17.2PS and 15.9Nm. This powerplant is paired with a five-speed gearbox featuring a slip-and-assist clutch
Safety and Underpinnings
Enhancing rider safety, the updated Hornet 2.0 now comes equipped with switchable traction control and dual-channel ABS, an upgrade from the earlier single-channel system. The motorcycle retains its suspension setup of a golden-colored inverted front fork and a rear monoshock. It rides on 17-inch alloy wheels fitted with 110-section front and 140-section rear tires. Braking is managed by a 276mm front disc and a 220mm rear disc. The bike's dimensions and capacities remain unchanged, with a kerb weight of 142kg, a 12-liter fuel tank, 167mm ground clearance, and a seat height of 790mm.
Market Positioning
In the competitive landscape, the 2025 Honda Hornet 2.0 positions itself against models like the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V, Yamaha MT-15 V2, and Bajaj Pulsar NS200, offering a blend of modern features and compliance with the latest emission norms
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.
