In a recent development, Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) has issued a recall for two of its premium motorcycle models in India — the CBR1000RR and the Gold Wing GL1800. This decision was necessitated due to a flaw in the fuel pump fitted into these motorcycles. Specifically, it seems the bikes, including the CBR1000RR Fireblade and the Gold Wing GL1800, might abruptly halt during motion due to the malfunctioning fuel pumps, creating a hazardous situation especially at high velocities. This important safety measure comes close on the heels of Honda’s global recall of over 20,000 units of the Gold Wing, the CBR1000RR Fireblade, and the CBR 600 RR.
In more detail, this most recent Honda recall in India pertains to the CBR1000RR units that were constructed between September 2017 and April 2020 and the Gold Wing GL1800 models that were manufactured from December 2017 to December 2023. The problem, Honda explained, originated from the fuel pump impellers which might have been the result of an incorrect mould. The fuel pump could fail or become distorted as a consequence of this moulding defect, causing the motorcycle to stop. Importantly, the exact number of units affected by this recall has yet to be clarified by Honda.
Nevertheless, Honda has assured affected customers that they will be offered free fuel pump inspections and replacements, irrespective of whether their motorcycles are still under warranty or not. They also plan to notify the owners of these affected motorcycles through their premium BigWing dealerships. The company has estimated that this replacement procedure will take roughly an hour to complete. Users can verify if their bikes are part of this recall by inputting their VIN onto the Honda BigWing India website.
The Gold Wing GL1800, which is included in this recall, is powered by a 1,833cc, 4-stroke, 24-valve, liquid-cooled flat-six engine paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (7DCT). In terms of power, it delivers 125bhp at 5,500 rpm and a maximum torque of 170Nm at 4,500rpm. It comes with various high-end tech features including a 7.0-inch color TFT screen, Bluetooth and USB Type-C connectivity, an airbag, a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), a gyrocompass-equipped navigation system, and more. It is also equipped with several riding aids including four ride modes (Touring, Sport, Econ, and Rain) alongside a Throttle-by-Wire system, an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG), a Dual Combined Brake System (D-CBS), and an HSA among others.
On the other hand, the CBR1000RR, known for superior power and performance, comes fitted with a 999cc inline four-cylinder engine capable of generating a maximum power of 215bhp along with 113Nm of top torque. This impressive litre-class motorcycle is capable of a top speed of 300km/h. Apart from this, it features a diamond aluminum frame and is equipped with several electronic systems including three riding modes, a Bosch six-axis IMU, keyless ignition, and a 5-inch color TFT display, among others. In the Indian market, it competes with top class bikes such as the Yamaha YZF-R1, the Suzuki GSX-R1000R, the Kawasaki ZX-10RR, the Ducati Panigale V4 S, and the BMW S 1000 RR.
Honda's commitment to maintaining the highest possible quality and safety standards for its consumers can be traced in its proactive decision to conduct this recall. However, the volume of units possibly affected by this recall within India remains to be confirmed by the company. Regardless, owners of the specified models should heed the advice and have their motorcycles checked and replaced, if required, to ensure their own safety.
Renault Triber Facelift to Debut on 23 July – What to Expect
Renault is set to officially reveal the refreshed 2025 Triber MPV in India on 23 July, marking the first major update since its 2019 launch
Exterior Upgrades for a Modern Look
Redesigned fascia with sharper LED headlamps and eyebrow-style DRLs extending across the bonnet’s edge
All-new grille featuring a darker palette and Renault’s updated logo, complemented by larger air intakes and repositioned fog lamps
Profile remains intact, but adds new alloy wheels or stylized covers; stealthy fog-lights and horizontal air-dam trims add flair
**Rear styling tweaked **with clear-lens wraparound LED tail-lights, subtle chrome blade in bumper, and integrated parking sensors
Interior & Tech: Subtle Upgrades
Refreshed cabin color themes, improved soft-touch materials, new seat upholstery trims and premium textures
Likely to feature an 8-inch touchscreen, optional digital instrument cluster, and feature enhancements such as rain-sensing wipers, auto-headlamps, auto-dimming IRVM, and 360° camera
Powertrain Options Stay Same
Retains the 1.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine (72 PS/96 Nm) in both 5-speed manual and 5-speed AMT variants
No turbo engine confirmed as part of this update.
What’s Next
Official launch: 23 July 2025
Pricing: Minor hike expected, but Triber to remain India’s most affordable 7-seater MPV (₹6–10 lakh)
Availability: Deliveries to begin soon after launch.
Final Take for CarTopNews
The Renault Triber facelift brings a fresh, sharper design, upgraded visuals, and added features to its cabin—while retaining affordability and practicality. With a new grille, LED lighting, and cabin refinement, this update injects energy into a compact 7‑seater that continues to lead its niche.
MG Launches M9 “Presidential Limo” – Luxury Electric MPV at ₹69.9 Lakh
JSW MG Motor India has unveiled the MG M9 Presidential Limo, a premium electric MPV under its MG Select sub-brand, priced at ₹69.90 Lakh (ex-showroom). Bookings are open now—with deliveries slated to begin on 10 August 2025 via MG Select outlets
Powertrain & Range
A 90 kWh NMC battery powers a front-wheel motor outputting 245 PS and 350 Nm torque, delivering a claimed range of 548 km on MIDC cycle
Comes with an 11 kW AC wall charger, 3.3 kW portable charger, and DC fast charging capability (30–80% in ~30–90 minutes depending on charger)
Lifetime warranty on the high-voltage battery and a 3-year/unlimited-km vehicle warranty guarantee peace of mind
Opulent Interiors & Comfort
Cabin features “Presidential” middle row seats with 16-way adjustment, ventilation, heating, massage (8 modes), power headrests, and powered ottomans—controlled via an Intelligent Armrest touchscreen
Additional luxury touches include dual yacht-style sunroof, 64‑colour ambient lighting, Cognac brown leather & suede, a 13‑speaker JBL audio system, and 1720 L bootspace + 55 L frunk
Exterior & Safety Features
Exterior highlights: split LED DRLs, trapezoidal mesh grille, waterfall LED tail-light bar, 19″ ContiSeal™ self-sealing tyres, and heated ORVMs
Safety tech: built on high-strength steel structure, features 7+ airbags, 5‑star Euro NCAP & ANCAP ratings, Level 2 ADAS, driver monitoring, ESC, 360° camera, and seatbelt
warnings
Positioning & Competitors
As a fully-electric luxury MPV, it competes with the Kia Carnival and Toyota Vellfire, offering EV efficiency and plush amenities for ₹50‑60 Lakh less
Its commanding dimensions (≈ 5.2 m length, 3.2 m wheelbase) and chauffeur-focused layout aim to redefine premium travel for Indian elites
Final Take for CarTopNews
The MG M9 Presidential Limo stakes a bold claim as India’s first fully-electric luxury limousine. With its sumptuous cabin, long-range EV powertrain, and raft of high-end features, it undercuts traditional rivals while offering unprecedented value in a high-status package.
Kia Opens Bookings for Carens Clavis EV – India’s First 7‑Seater Made‑in‑India EV
Kia India has officially started accepting bookings for its Carens Clavis EV from 22 July 2025, with a ₹25,000 token amount, via its website and authorised dealerships nationwide
Price & Variant Breakdown
HTK+ (42 kWh) – ₹17.99 L
HTX (42 kWh) – ₹20.49 L
HTX ER (51.4 kWh) – ₹22.49 L
HTX Plus ER (51.4 kWh) – ₹24.49 L
Battery, Range & Performance
42 kWh pack delivers ARAI-certified 404 km
51.4 kWh pack offers 490 km on a single charge
Electric motor output: 133 hp / 99 kW (Std) and 169 hp / 126 kW (ER), both with 255 Nm torque
Fast charging (100 kW DC): 10–80% in ~39 minutes
Design & Comfort Upgrades
Carries forward the refreshed “Opposites United” design with EV-specific tweaks: closed grille, aero-optimised wheels, LED light bar, repositioned front charging port, and a handy 25 L frunk
Features dual 12.3″ panoramic displays, panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, wireless charging, Bose 8-speaker audio, and V2L support
Safety & Tech Features
Equipped with Level-2 ADAS offering 20 autonomous functions and 18 high-safety features
Adds i-Pedal regenerative braking, 360° camera, ESC, ABS, TPMS, and hill-start assist
Connectivity includes 90+ features via Kia’s eco-system and robust post-sales support: 100+ fast-charging dealerships, 250+ EV-ready workshops, and an 8‑year/1.6 L km battery warranty
Market Impact
Marks Kia’s entry into the mass-market EV segment, with the Carens already the company’s best-selling model (July sales up 54%)
Competes against BYD eMax7, MG Windsor EV, Tata Curvv, and internal rivals like the ICE Carens, now offering a clean, spacious, and value-rich alternative
Final Take for CarTopNews
The Carens Clavis EV offers a strong value proposition—long-range 7-seater capacity, premium features, and strong post-sales support—all at an attractive starting price. Its launch and booking opening position Kia as a serious player in India’s EV space.
Keeway RR 300 Debuts in India — Fully-Faired 300cc at ₹1.99 Lakh
Keeway, through its Indian partner Moto Vault, has launched the RR 300, a full-faired sport bike based on its K300 R, priced aggressively at ₹1.99 Lakh ex-showroom. This undercuts rivals like the TVS Apache RR 310, BMW G 310 RR, and KTM RC 390 in the 300cc segment
Powertrain & Performance
Engine: 292.4 cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled DOHC
Power: ~27 hp @ 8,750 rpm
Torque: ~25 Nm @ 7,000 rpm
Transmission: 6-speed with slipper & assist clutch
Top Speed: ~139 km/h
Chassis & Features
Frame: Bassinet trellis
Front Suspension: 37 mm USD forks
Rear: Pre-load adjustable monoshock
Brakes: Dual discs with dual-channel ABS
Wheels/Tyres: 17″ alloys; 110/70 front, 140/60 rear
Weight & Fuel Capacity: Kerb ~165 kg, tank 12 L
Electronics & Convenience:
Full LED lighting
TFT instrument display
Slipper clutch
Styling & Colours
Retains full-faired design from K300 R with boomerang LED DRLs, sleek tail, “Ride Rebel” livery
Available in Red, White, and Black colour themes
Competitive Position & Value
At ₹1.99 Lakh, it is India’s most affordable liquid-cooled 300cc fairing bike, undercutting rivals—Apache RR 310
Delivers core performance and sporty aesthetics with essential electronics, offering bang-for-buck in the performance segment.
Final Take for CarTopNews
The Keeway RR 300 brings surprising value to India’s sport bike landscape, offering a fully-faired, liquid-cooled 300cc platform with crisp styling and a solid feature set at an unprecedented entry price. While brand awareness and after-sales network remain open questions, early adopters looking for bold performance on a budget now have a compelling alternative.
2026 Suzuki GSX-8R Launched with Big Upgrades in Aerodynamics & Electronics
Suzuki has introduced the 2026 GSX‑8R, featuring a fresh aerodynamic redesign, improved electronic rider aids, enhanced ergonomics, and new colour options for greater appeal in the middleweight sport bike segment
Aerodynamic & Design Enhancements
Refined full fairing developed via wind-tunnel testing to enhance stability and wind protection at higher speeds — ideal for sport-touring balance
Sleeker windscreen integrated into the fairing reduces buffeting on the rider
New Colours & Ergonomics
Available in Glass Blaze Orange, Pearl Tech White, and Metallic Triton Blue, with updated graphic detailing
Forged aluminum clip-on bars positioned lower, offering a sportier posture without sacrificing long-ride comfort
Engine & Chassis (Unchanged)
Powered by the 776 cc parallel-twin DOHC engine with 270° crank, delivering around 83 PS and 78 Nm, carried over from 2024 specs
Steel tube mainframe, Showa SFF-BP front fork, link rear suspension, and Nissin radial 4-piston brakes retained — balanced setup remains at ~205 kg kerb
Electronics & Rider Aids
Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) enhanced with Drive Mode Selector, 4-level traction control, and Low-RPM Assist
Added quick shifter, slide-assist clutch, and full-colour 5‑inch TFT display for better visibility and control
Why This Matters
The upgrades elevate the GSX‑8R’s appeal to riders seeking both sporty performance and everyday comfort — especially in markets where mid-capacity models are growing
Cosmetic, ergonomic, and electronic updates add value without altering the reliable platform, making it an attractive proposition for existing fans and new buyers alike.
Final Take
The 2026 Suzuki GSX‑8R refresh refines an already well-regarded sport bike by enhancing aerodynamic efficiency, rider usability, and electronic versatility. With vibrant new paints and subtly aggressive styling tweaks, it strengthens its position in the competitive mid‑size segment.
Porsche Introduces Cayenne Black Edition & Coupe in India
Porsche India has launched the Black Edition variants of its Cayenne and Cayenne Coupe, priced at ₹1.80 Cr and ₹1.87 Cr respectively (ex-showroom). Built upon the standard V6 petrol Cayenne, these editions add exclusive styling and equipment while retaining performance levels
Powertrain & Performance
Both models use the 3.0 L V6 twin‑turbo petrol engine, delivering 353 PS and 500 Nm, paired with an 8-speed torque-converter AT and AWD.
Performance metrics remain strong: 0–100 km/h in approximately 5.7 seconds
Design & Styling Highlights
Monochrome aesthetic: high-gloss black accents on headlights, badging, mirrors, and window surrounds
New 21″ RS Spyder alloy wheels, and dark bronze exhaust tips enhance presence
Paint palette includes Chromite Black Metallic plus standard options like White, Quartzite Grey, Carmine Red, and Cashmere Beige—standard colours included, while exclusive shades incur up to ₹20.13 Lakh extra
Interior & Comfort Features
Cabin sports black leather upholstery with brushed-aluminium accents and illuminated door sills
Standard luxuries include:
Panoramic sunroof
14-way power-adjustable seats
14-speaker Bose audio system
Steering wheel and infotainment setup shared with base Cayenne
Pricing & Value
Cayenne Black Edition: ₹1.80 Cr (adds ~₹31 L over standard SUV at ₹1.49 Cr)
Cayenne Coupe Black Edition**: ₹1.87 Cr (₹32 L premium over **coupe’s ₹1.55 Cr starting price)
Deliveries expected by end of 2025 or early 2026, bookings open via Porsche Centres
Why It Matters for CarTopNews Readers
The Black Edition offers a compelling blend of bespoke aesthetics and high-end inclusions at a premium. With all-black styling, distinctive wheels, high-value tech, and strong performance, it caters to enthusiasts seeking exclusivity within the existing Cayenne roster—without stepping up to V8 or hybrid trims.
Final Take
Porsche’s Cayenne Black Edition brings substantial visual upgrades and standard equipment at a calculated premium. With elite aesthetics and luxury finishing touches, it offers a niche choice for buyers seeking unique appeal on a proven platform.
Range Rover Velar Autobiography Unveiled in India at ₹89.90 Lakh
Land Rover adds a new pinnacle trim to its elegant Velar SUV lineup — the Autobiography, launched today in India at ₹89.90 Lakh (ex-showroom). It slots above the Dynamic SE variant, offering enhanced luxury, richer equipment, and a choice of petrol or diesel powertrains
Luxury Additions & Exterior Flair
Burnished Copper accents on bumpers, bonnet lettering, and tailgate enhance its visual appeal
Updated Pixel LED headlights, redesigned 20″ Satin Dark Grey alloy wheels
Four exclusive colors: Ostuni Pearl White, Varesine Blue, Arroios Grey, Batumi Gold
Premium Interior & Tech Features
Panoramic sliding sunroof and Suedecloth headliner amplify cabin ambiance
Front seats boast 20-way electric adjustment and massage, with optional powered recline for rear seats
Cabin lined with Full Extended Windsor leather, choice of premium hues (Cloud‑Ebony, Deep‑Garnet‑Ebony, Caraway‑Ebony)
Tech suite includes an 11.4″ touchscreen, 12.3″ digital instrument cluster, Meridian 3D surround sound, 360° camera, and Terrain Response 2
Engine Lineup & Dynamics
Petrol P250: 2.0 L turbo charged — 250 PS & 365 Nm; 0–100 km/h in 7.5 s
Diesel D200: 2.0 L mild‑hybrid — 204 PS & 430 Nm; 0–100 km/h in 8.3 s
All variants come with 8-speed auto transmission and AWD
Retains sophisticated tech like electronic air suspension, adaptive dynamics, wade sensing, and standard ABS, EBD, and ESP
Segment Positioning & Appeal
Priced ₹5 Lakh above the Velar Dynamic SE, the Autobiography appeals to buyers seeking premium comfort and luxury without moving to larger SUVs
Positioned alongside rivals like BMW X5, Mercedes GLE, and Volvo XC90, while offering a more compact, stylish format and luxurious features
Final Take for CarTopNews
The Range Rover Velar Autobiography raises the bar in luxury compact SUVs with its refined design, indulgent materials, advanced tech, and performance. It offers a compelling alternative for those seeking refinement in a smaller footprint. A refined blend of style and substance.
All-New 2025 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe Debuts in India from ₹46.90 Lakh
BMW has launched the second-generation (F74) 2 Series Gran Coupe in India, built at its Chennai plant. The premium four-door coupe is available in two trims:
218i M Sport – ₹46.90 Lakh (ex-showroom)
218i M Sport Pro – ₹48.90 Lakh (ex-showroom)
Deliveries begin immediately across BMW dealerships.
Top-of-Class Design & Dimensions
Sleeker “shark-nose” front fascia with a redesigned single-piece kidney grille, sharper LED headlights, and vertical air intakes
Sporty 18″ alloy wheels, revised rear bumper diffuser, and slim tail-lights complete the coupe-like stance
Marginally upsized—20 mm longer, 15 mm wider, and 15 mm taller—for improved presence and cabin space
Tech-Rich Interior
Driver-focused cockpit featuring a curved 10.7″ touchscreen and 10.25″ digital instrument cluster, angled for intuitive use
Added features include a panoramic sunroof, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, 360° camera, auto park assist, and BMW Digital Key
A roof-mounted camera allows occupants to snap photos/videos, shareable directly to smartphones
Powertrain & Performance
Powered by a 1.5 L, 3-cylinder turbo-petrol engine delivering 156 hp and 230 Nm, mated to a 7-speed DCT front-wheel-drive setup
Acceleration: 0–100 km/h in approximately 8.6 seconds; top speed ~230 km/h
While more restrained than the outgoing 2.0 L 4-cyl / diesel options, this engine balances performance and efficiency with an ARAI claimed 16.35 kmpl
Segment Positioning & Rivals
Positioned as BMW’s entry-level luxury sedan—it competes directly with the Mercedes‑Benz A-Class sedan (Rs 46.05–48.55 L ex-showroom)
Commands a premium of roughly ₹85,000 to ₹2.85 Lakh over the Merc, justified by its sporty appeal and enhanced feature set
Final Take
The all-new BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe offers a compelling blend of style, connectivity, and driving pleasure. With its sharp aesthetics, elevated tech, and polished new engine, it’s a strong contender in the premium compact sedan segment. Ideal for those who value a sporty silhouette and refined luxury.
