At the 2023 Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo, Toyota caused quite a stir with the reveal of the X-Van Gear Concept. This robust MPV sported an unorthodox and eye-catching design that turned heads. Initially, many thought of this model as a design experiment due to its idiosyncratic look. However, it has since been patented, thereby hinting that we could see this model reaching production soon, especially in Japan. The styling isn't overly futuristic, which implies that the arrival of the X-Van Gear could be imminent.
A key design element of the X-Van Gear is its striking front and rear sliding doors that lend uniqueness to its upright design philosophy. The vehicle retains a contemporary yet rugged appeal, somewhat reminiscent of the Toyota FJ Cruiser, mainly due to the liberal use of plastic cladding, which accentuates its off-road capabilities. A pseudo-van, the X-Van Gear is distinctive due to its lack of B-pillars, which makes it easier for passengers to enter and exit and loading and unloading cargo a breeze.
The design of the X-Van Gear focuses on accessibility, offering optimum convenience to all occupants. An added bonus is its expansive, three-piece sunroof that covers the length of the vehicle, providing a panoramic view for all passengers.
From the interior standpoint, the X-Van Gear concept showcases ingenuity and adaptability, tailored for family adventures and leisure activities. It features a practical three-row layout that can seat up to six passengers comfortably. The front passenger seat can swivel, transforming the cabin into a cosy, lounge-like space where occupants can relax.
Moreover, the second-row seat can double as a table, perfect for picnics or quick meals on the move. There are six different seat configurations, providing the flexibility to customise the interior space to fit people's specific needs. Size-wise, the X-Van measures 4,695 mm in length, 1,820 mm in width, and 1,855 mm in height, similar to the dimensions of Toyota’s existing Noah and Voxy models, however it is smaller than the Toyota Sienna.
Toyota Innova Hycross Achieves Full 5-Star Rating in Bharat NCAP
Toyota’s flagship MPV, the Innova Hycross, has earned a 5-star rating in the Bharat NCAP crash tests, making it the first MPV and first Toyota model in India to achieve perfect ratings for both adult and child occupant protection
Safety Performance Breakdown
Adult Occupant Protection (AOP):
Scored 30.47 out of 32, with full marks (16/16) in side barrier crash and strong performance in frontal barrier impact (14.47/16).
Most body regions rated “good”, with the chest rated “adequate”—still within acceptable safety thresholds
Child Occupant Protection (COP):
Achieved 45 out of 49 points, including a perfect 24/24 in dynamic testing and 12/12 for CRS fitment.
The overall child protection score highlights excellent crash and restraint system performance
tandard Safety Equipment Onboard
All variants, including the GX 8‑seater (petrol), VX 8‑seater, and ZX 7‑seater (hybrid), share the same safety structure and equipment. These include:
Six airbags (seven on higher trims with curtain airbags)
ISOFIX mounts, ABS with EBD, ESC, hill-start assist, and seatbelt warnings
Top trims feature ADAS (adaptive cruise, blind-spot monitor, pre-collision alert)
Rearview cameras, 360-degree view monitor, and e-call functionality in ZX(O)
Why It Matters for Indian Families
Being the first MPV and first Toyota to earn a full five stars from Bharat NCAP positions the Innova Hycross as the safest large family vehicle sold in India. This enhances its appeal as a family-hauler built not just for comfort and versatility, but exemplary occupant protection.
Final Take
The Innova Hycross’s 5-star Bharat NCAP rating reinforces its reputation as a safe, robust, feature-rich MPV. With top marks in both adult and child safety categories, it sets a new benchmark in the Indian segment—combining hybrid efficiency, cabin space, and now, unmatched safety credentials.
KTM 390 Adventure X Set for Electronics Upgrade, Cruise Control & More
KTM is poised to enhance the 390 Adventure X by adding the same advanced electronics found on the top-spec 390 Adventure. Dealers have halted bookings for the current version as the 390 Adventure X Plus is expected to arrive within weeks
Full Electronics Suite to Arrive
Cruise Control with dedicated switchgear—ideal for highway touring
Lean-sensitive cornering ABS & traction control, backed by an IMU for improved safety in turns
Three ride modes: Off-road, Street, and Rain, each adjusting throttle mapping, ABS, and traction settings
What Remains Carried Over
Powertrain: 399cc LC4c single-cylinder engine with ~46hp and 39Nm torque
Mechanical parts: Long-travel non-adjustable suspension, 19"/17" cast alloy wheels, Apollo Tramplr tyres
Bike retains its touring-oriented setup, with quickshifter available
Pricing & Availability
Current price: ₹2.91 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)
Expected price increase: ₹10,000–15,000 for the Plus version
Although bumped up, it will still be priced lower than the fully loaded 390 Adventure with spoked wheels and adjustable suspension
Final Take for CarTopNews
The upcoming 390 Adventure X Plus bike brings major value enhancements—adding cruise control, cornering safety aids, and ride modes—while preserving its robust touring DNA. With only a modest price hike, it becomes a stronger rival to the top-spec model and competitors like Royal Enfield Himalayan 450.
TVS Introduces 2025 Apache RTR 160 with Dual‑Channel ABS
TVS Motor Company has rolled out its updated 2025 Apache RTR 160, now featuring dual‑channel ABS for both wheels. The new variant is priced at ₹1.34 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) and also complies with the latest OBD‑2B emission norms
Safety & Compliance Upgrade
Dual-channel ABS ensures enhanced braking stability during sudden stops or on slippery surfaces—a first for this segment
OBD‑2B compliance enables advanced diagnostics for emissions and system faults, aligning with new regulatory standards
Mechanical & Tech Specs
Engine: 159.7 cc air-cooled single-cylinder, producing 15.82 PS and 13.85 Nm torque
Paired with a 5-speed gearbox, it maintains the lively character of the RTR line-up.
Braking: Dual-channel ABS with front disc and rear disc—previously non-existent on this model.
Features: Includes ride modes, LCD console with Bluetooth, turn-by-turn navigation, and LED lighting in higher trims
Market Position & Segment Context
Price tag of ₹1.34 lakh positions the RTR 160 slightly above its top-end predecessors—a premium justified by the safety upgrade
TVS continues to offer** the RTR 160 4V**, which already includes dual‑channel ABS and USD front forks, with prices ranging from **₹1.24 lakh **to ₹1.40 lakh across variants
With ABS becoming mandatory for 125 cc+ bikes in 2026, TVS’s proactive update places the RTR 160 ahead in rider safety and regulatory compliance.
Final Take
The 2025 Apache RTR 160 Bike sets a new bar in the 160cc commuter category with its dual‑channel ABS and regulatory readiness. Priced competitively at ₹1.34 lakh, it delivers both performance and peace of mind at a crucial price point. Ideal for buyers seeking a feature-rich, safe, and sporty ride.
Mercedes‑AMG GT 63 & GT 63 Pro Officially Launched in India
Mercedes-Benz India has added two formidable additions to its performance lineup—the 2025 AMG GT 63 4MATIC+ and the track-focused GT 63 Pro 4MATIC+—with prices starting at ₹3 crore and ₹3.65 crore respectively (ex-showroom)
Powertrain & Performance
Both models are driven by AMG’s hand-built 4.0 L twin-turbo V8, paired with a 9-speed dual-clutch and AWD.
GT 63 Pro adds +27 PS and +50 Nm over GT 63
Track-Ready Enhancements on GT 63 Pro
The Pro variant introduces significant mechanical upgrades:
603 PS & 850 Nm, active aero, carbon-fiber wing, extended diffusers
**Two extra radiators **(front arches, diff transfer case), underbody aero, 21‑inch forged wheels
Ceramic brakes: 419 mm fronts, titanium rear, 6-piston front calipers
Design & Usability
The Mercedes GT 63 features a longer wheelbase and a 2+2 seating layout
Inside features include AMG performance seats, a 12.3″ digital cluster, and an 11.9″ vertical infotainment screen
Pro model adds sharper visual cues, fixed rear wing, carbon-fiber bits, and active cooling vents
Availability & Booking
Bookings open from 27 June 2025
Deliveries:
GT 63: Q4 2025
GT 63 Pro: Q1 2026
Final Take for CarTopNews
The arrival of the AMG GT 63 duo reaffirms AMG's commitment to high-performance coupes in India. With staggering power, race-inspired tech, and experiential variants, these models will thrill enthusiasts and broaden Mercedes’ supercar catalog in the luxury-performance segment.
Callum Reinvents the Classic: 110 hp Wood & Pickett Mini
Callum Design, led by legendary British designer Ian Callum CBE, has teamed up with Wood & Pickett to breathe new life into the final-gen Mk5 Mini, delivering a meticulously crafted restomod that marries vintage charm with performance and modernity
Exterior & Interior – Classic with a Modern Twist
Revamped bodywork retains the iconic proportions of the Mk5 Mini (last built 1997–2001), enhanced with bespoke valances, side skirts, and a redesigned rear end that echo Wood & Pickett’s coachbuilding pedigree
Upgraded LED lighting, Callum-designed 13‑inch alloy wheels, road-tuned suspension, and uprated disc brakes deliver a sophisticated yet purposeful aesthetic
Inside, expect a piano-switch dashboard, touchscreen infotainment, and luxurious Bridge of Weir leather trim—quality that “British Leyland could only dream about”
Under the Bonnet – Genuine Go-Kart Feel
Powertrain: Stage 3 1.3‑litre A‑Series motor, rebuilt to produce 110 hp, nearly doubling standard output
Mated to a re-engineered gearbox with twin-exit exhaust, the car promises lively performance reminiscent of early hot-hatch legends
Handling is enhanced via bespoke suspension and quality brakes, completing the transformation into a light-footed go-kart classic
Limited Editions & Customisation
Each restomod is hand-built in the UK, with customers invited to collaborate from day one—ensuring no two builds are identical
Starting price is around £75,000 (~₹80 lakh), reflecting its exclusivity as a David Gandy-commissioned first example, due to debut at the Heveningham Concours this weekend
Final Take for CarTopNews
The Wood & Pickett Mini by Callum reinvigorates classic Mini DNA with bespoke design, performance upgrades, and modern luxury—all while preserving its authentic character. This restomod isn’t just a tribute; it’s a statement in selectors and craftsmanship, appealing to design purists and hot‑Mini enthusiasts alike.
MG Teases Two New EVs at 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed
MG Motor is set to make a strong statement at the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed (10–13 July) by showcasing two new production EVs alongside concept models—Cyberster Black, Cyber X, and a fresh EX4 EV livery
What We Know So Far
IM6: The Torchbearer
Teasers hint that one of the mystery models could be the IM Motors IM6, rebadged under the MG brand for international markets
Dimensions: ~4.9 m long, 1.99 m wide, 1.67 m tall, 2.95 m wheelbase
Design cues: Coupé-SUV silhouette, full‑width LED rear lighting, petal‑pattern alloys, glass roof
IM6 Performance on the Hillclimb
MG plans to demonstrate its “phenomenal EV acceleration” during the hill climb event—using the Performance variant of IM6.
Powertrain: dual‑motor (200 kW front + 372 kW rear)
Combined output: 778 PS, 802 Nm
0–100 km/h in 3.4 seconds — a serious hill‑climb contender
Concept Stars & Performance EVs
Cyberster Black: A new dark‑themed version of MG’s electric roadster with blacked-out styling and matching interiors
Cyber X Concept: Rugged, boxy compact SUV with bold pop-up headlights—ideal for urban adventures
EX4 EV Livery: The electric rally-inspired EX4 returns with a fresh Metro 6R4-inspired design for hill‑climb runs
MGS5 EV, MG4 XPower & HS SUV will also feature at MG’s main stand and experience area
Reveal time: The new EVs will debut at 11 AM on 10 July, the first day of the event
Why This Matters for EV & MG Fans
MG’s bet on global EV expansion: The IM6 could rival the Tesla Model Y segment; its presence signals MG’s international ambitions
Performance meets spectacle: The hillclimb run aims to re-establish MG as a performance EV contender
Broad showcase strategy: MG’s combination of production reveals and concept displays shows a dual focus on immediate sales and future innovation
Final Take
At Goodwood ’25, MG is primed to refresh its image with powerful new EVs, head-turning concept models, and high-visibility hill‑climb action. The event could mark a turning point as MG prepares to go global with advanced electric SUVs.
Ather to Introduce EL Platform at Community Day 2025
Ather Energy is preparing to showcase its new EL electric scooter platform at the upcoming Community Day in August 2025. The reveal will also include fresh concept scooters, upgraded Grid fast chargers, and the debut of its Ather Stack 7.0 software
Ather to Introduce EL Platform at Community Day 2025
Ather Energy is preparing to showcase its new EL electric scooter platform at the upcoming Community Day in August 2025. The reveal will also include fresh concept scooters, upgraded Grid fast chargers, and the debut of its Ather Stack 7.0 software
Ather to Introduce EL Platform at Community Day 2025
Ather Energy is preparing to showcase its new EL electric scooter platform at the upcoming Community Day in August 2025. The reveal will also include fresh concept scooters, upgraded Grid fast chargers, and the debut of its Ather Stack 7.0 software
Features new chassis, electronics, and powertrain, while retaining key elements like battery and software from Ather’s existing 450/Rizta models
Possible inclusion of LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries to further reduce costs
Ecosystem Enhancements
Introduction of next-gen Grid fast chargers promising faster, more reliable charging versus current rate (1.5 km/min)
Launch of** Ather Stack 7.0,** featuring upgraded UI, improved OTA updates, voice interaction, ride analytics, and better device connectivity
Strategic Move: Democratizing EV Access
The EL platform marks Ather’s push into the mass-market EV space, extending its lineup beyond premium scooters like the 450 series and Rizta to attract budget-conscious buyers
Set against continued competition from Ola, Hero, TVS, and others, this strategy positions Ather to capture new demographics—especially in smaller towns.
Also likely aligns with launch of Zenith platform for e‑motorcycles, signaling broader product expansion
What’s Next
Ather Community Day 2025, planned for August—exact date TBD
Reveal of EL platform, concept models, chargers, and Stack 7.0
Expected timeline for EL-based scooter launch: early 2026, with potential sub‑₹1 lakh pricing
Final Take
Ather’s EL platform debut could reshape India’s electric two-wheeler market by offering trusted build quality and smart features at mass-market pricing. Coupled with charging and software upgrades, this initiative reinforces Ather’s ambition to lead both premium and budget EV segments.
Mercedes‑AMG GT XX Concept Debuts as Brand’s First True Electric AMG Super‑Sedan
Mercedes‑AMG has lifted the curtain on the GT XX concept, its first all-electric flagship coupe/sedan that previews the AMG.EA platform. Under its sleek, four-door coupe body lies a staggering 1,340 hp tri‑motor EV, poised to challenge the fastest electric performance cars on the planet
Powertrain & Performance
Hybrid architecture redefined by three axial-flux electric motors sourced from Yasa, delivering unparalleled power density and efficiency
Peak output over 1,340 hp, targeting 220 mph (≈360 km/h) top speed — a direct rival to hyper-performance EVs .
Battery features high-performance oil cooling and next-gen rapid-charging, leveraging F1-sourced tech to manage sustained power delivery
Design & Aerodynamics
Active aero wheels adjust brake cooling vs drag reduction dynamically
Signature AMG vertical-bar grille, six round taillights and illuminated sill inserts accentuate the dramatic appearance
Low-slung, nearly coupe-style stance with a possible dual-use production variant featuring a hatchback and higher roofline
Drag coefficient reported at 0.198, nearly the lowest among production EVs
Interior & Production Prospects
Concept cabin blends race-inspired seats with a digital-rich environment reminiscent of virtual concept cars .
Carrying a VIN suggests more than just design theatrics; AMG confirms that core tech and drivetrain are production-ready, slated to debut in 2025 on AMG.EA
Final Take
The Mercedes‑AMG GT XX concept not only packs radical performance with over 1,300 hp and record-breaking aerodynamics but also preview's AMG’s next-gen EV platform. With production-ready underpinnings, it stands as a bold statement: AMG is ready to dominate the high-performance electric era.
