In the upcoming years, Mahindra intends to introduce a series of new electric vehicles (EVs) to the market, with the XUV700 Electric leading the way. This move is a part of Mahindra's strategy to focus on the premium EV sector, while Tata Motors continues to lead in the entry-level EV segment. When it comes to market, the XUV700 Electric, likely to be sold under the name XUV.e8, will rival upcoming models such as the Tata Harrier EV and Safari EV.
The body design of the XUV700 Electric will largely replicate that of the current internal combustion engine (ICE)-based XUV700. This similarity is meant to decrease both production and development costs. However, the front view of the XUV.e8 will be significantly different. Outstanding features will include a full-length LED light bar extending vertically to the bumper and a closed-off grille. The XUV.e8 is also projected to feature a completely new headlamp design.
Other modifications in design specific to the electric model will be a new set of sporty and aerodynamic alloy wheels.The rear of the XUV.e8 will boast changes such as a new full-width LED light strip and a rejuvenated bumper. The silhouette, for the most part, will replicate the existing ICE model with some EV-specific badging, like the copper-coloured accents previously seen on the XUV400 EV. The Mahindra logo will follow the same design scheme. Additionally, Mahindra may offer exclusive colour options for the XUV700 Electric model.
In terms of dimensions, the XUV.e8 will be slightly larger but not considerably distinguishable from the ICE XUV700. With lengths, widths, and heights of 4,740 mm, 1,900 mm, and 1,760 mm respectively, the XUV.e8 will have a 2,762 mm wheelbase. The electric model indicates a minimal increase of 45 mm in length, 10 mm in width, and 5 mm in height when compared to the ICE model. The wheelbase is larger by only 7 mm.
While these marginal differences are unlikely to significantly affect the interior space, Mahindra does plan to focus on superior space utilization with the INGLO platform. Consequently, despite the marginal size differences, the XUV.e8 will provide a more spacious feel than the ICE model.
Further separating the XUV.e8 from the ICE model, several first-in-segment features are set to be incorporated. A major aspect will be the innovative triple integrated screen setup, which will cover nearly the total width of the dashboard. This will include the infotainment screen, the instrumentation, and a designated screen for the passenger upfront. Other notable features will include well-ventilated seats at both the front and rear, a panoramic sunroof, a luxury sound system, and an extensive series of ADAS features and connected car technology.
The performance specifications of the XUV.e8 are expected to surpass the existing ICE model. Lower-end models of the XUV.e8 will likely be equipped with a 60-kWH battery pack and a single motor featuring a front-wheel-drive (FWD) setup. The higher-end models, meanwhile, would come with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) setup and dual motors. The battery capacity for these models is expected to be 80 kWh. The electric model is slated to deliver a driving range of around 400 to 450 km, and both AC and DC fast-charging options will be offered for added convenience.
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Honda Cars India has introduced the Elevate Black Edition, adding a striking all-black aesthetic to its popular SUV lineup. This special edition is available in two variants: the Black Edition and the Signature Black Edition, with prices ranging from ₹15.51 lakh to ₹16.93 lakh (ex-showroom).
Exterior Highlights
Both variants feature a sleek Crystal Black Pearl exterior, complemented by blacked-out alloy wheels and lug nuts. Premium black chrome accents adorn the upper grille, while contrasting silver elements enhance the front and rear skid plates, door garnish, and roof rails. The tailgate is distinguished by a "Black Edition" emblem, with the Signature Black Edition additionally showcasing a unique "Signature Edition" badge on the front fender.
Interior Features
The cabin continues the monochromatic theme with an all-black interior, including door pads, armrests, instrument panels, and leatherette seats accented with black stitching. A standout feature exclusive to the Signature Black Edition is the 7-color rhythmic ambient lighting, providing customizable illumination across the dashboard and doors.
Performance and Specifications
Under the hood, the Honda Elevate Black Edition is powered by a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine, delivering 119 bhp and 145 Nm of torque. This engine can be paired with either a 6-speed manual or a CVT automatic transmission.
Conclusion
The Honda Elevate Black Edition combines a bold, stealthy exterior with a sophisticated interior, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a distinctive presence on the road. With its competitive pricing and enhanced features, this special edition reinforces Honda's commitment to offering stylish and performance-oriented vehicles in the Indian market.
Skoda Auto India has officially teased the upcoming second-generation Kodiaq SUV, indicating an imminent launch. The teaser, shared on Skoda's social media platforms, features the caption "Skoda Kodiaq, Coming Soon," signaling the vehicle's arrival in the Indian market.
Uncamouflaged Spy Shots Reveal Design Details
Recent uncamouflaged spy photographs have surfaced, showcasing the Kodiaq in both Sportline and Laurin & Klement (L&K) variants. These images provide a clear view of the SUV's exterior design, which, while updated, retains the distinctive Kodiaq aesthetic. Notable features include a refreshed front grille, sleek LED headlamps, and a sculpted bonnet, contributing to a more dynamic stance.
Expected Variants and Features
Skoda is anticipated to offer the new Kodiaq in multiple trims, including the Sportline, L&K, and potentially an RS variant. The L&K trim, previously showcased at Auto Expo 2025, represents the top-tier offering, emphasizing luxury and advanced features. The RS variant is expected to focus on enhanced performance and may be introduced as a Completely Built-Up (CBU) unit, following the strategy employed with the Octavia RS
Dimensions and Interior Highlights
The second-generation Kodiaq measures 4,758 mm in length, 1,864 mm in width, and 1,659 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,791 mm and a ground clearance of 192 mm, suitable for diverse Indian terrains. The interior is projected to draw inspiration from the latest Skoda Superb, featuring a free-standing infotainment screen, intelligent climate control knobs, and seats with ventilation, power adjustments, and massage functions, enhancing overall comfort and convenience.
Powertrain and Performance
Under the hood, the new Kodiaq is expected to house a 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine, delivering approximately 190 PS of power and 320 Nm of torque. This engine will likely be paired with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, ensuring robust performance across various driving conditions.
Market Positioning and Competition
Upon its launch, the new Kodiaq will compete with models such as the Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line, Jeep Meridian, Toyota Fortuner, and MG Gloster. Skoda's strategy to assemble the Kodiaq locally through the Completely Knocked Down (CKD) route aims to offer competitive pricing in this segment.
The forthcoming release of the second-generation Skoda Kodiaq is poised to make a significant impact in the Indian SUV market, offering a blend of sophisticated design, advanced features, and dynamic performance.
Hyundai has expanded its Exter Hy-CNG Duo lineup by introducing the new EX variant, priced at ₹7.51 lakh (ex-showroom). This addition makes the dual-cylinder CNG technology more accessible to a broader range of customers.
Key Features of the Exter EX Hy-CNG Duo:
Powered by a 1.2-liter, four-cylinder naturally aspirated bi-fuel engine, the Exter EX Hy-CNG Duo delivers 68 bhp and 95.2 Nm of torque when operating on CNG. It is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission and offers an impressive fuel efficiency of up to 27.1 km/kg
Statement from Hyundai:
Tarun Garg, Whole-Time Director and Chief Operating Officer of Hyundai Motor India Limited, stated, "At HMIL, we are committed to offering smart mobility solutions that cater to the evolving needs of our customers. The introduction of the EX variant in the Hyundai EXTER Hy-CNG Duo lineup is a testament to our customer-centric approach, ensuring that smart mobility is accessible to a wider audience."
With this new variant, Hyundai aims to provide an optimal balance of affordability, efficiency, and safety, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable and innovative mobility solutions.
Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. has inaugurated the Mahindra India Design Studio (MIDS) in Mumbai, marking a significant advancement in the company's design capabilities. This modern facility doubles the size of the previous studio established in 2015 and underscores Mahindra's commitment to design excellence across its Auto, Farm, and Last Mile Mobility (LMM) sectors.
The enhanced MIDS integrates cutting-edge design infrastructure and global best practices, serving as a hub for world-class design talent. It seamlessly combines digital tools with traditional craftsmanship and strengthens collaboration between Mahindra's Indian operations and its global design center, Mahindra Advanced Design Europe (MADE) in the UK.
Ajay Saran Sharma, Senior Vice President of Design and Head of MIDS, highlighted that the expanded studio enhances end-to-end project delivery, encompassing everything from initial concept sketches to production. The addition of functions such as Human-Machine Interface (HMI) Design and Design Quality & Realisation further bolsters its capabilities.
Pratap Bose, Chief Design and Creative Officer at Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., emphasized that the future-ready studio, equipped with world-class technologies and tools, aims to attract top design talent and establish itself as a leading automotive design center in India. The influence of MIDS is expected to be evident in Mahindra's products for years to come.
This strategic investment in MIDS reflects Mahindra's ambition to elevate Indian automotive design on the global stage, with upcoming electric SUVs like the BE 6 and XUV 9e exemplifying this forward-thinking design approach.
This achievement underscores the Creta's sustained popularity and robust market presence. In the fourth quarter of FY 2024-25 (January to March 2025), the Creta maintained its leadership position as the best-selling SUV in India, with cumulative sales reaching 52,898 units. For the entire fiscal year, the model achieved its highest-ever annual sales, totaling 1,94,871 units—a 20% year-on-year growth.
Tarun Garg, Whole-Time Director and Chief Operating Officer of Hyundai Motor India Ltd., commented on this success: "The Hyundai CRETA continues to set new benchmarks in India’s automotive landscape. Its consistent brand leadership in the SUV segment and now as the highest-selling model in March 2025 is a symbol of the strong emotional bond it shares with Indian customers. With over 1.2 million CRETAs on Indian roads and a decade of trust behind it, Hyundai CRETA has become a symbol of innovation, aspiration, and reliability."
A notable trend among buyers is the preference for premium features. Variants equipped with a sunroof accounted for 69% of Creta's total sales, while models featuring connected technologies contributed to 38% of the volume. Additionally, top trims represented 24% of total Creta internal combustion engine (ICE) sales and a significant 71% of Creta Electric sales, indicating a growing consumer inclination towards feature-rich models.
The introduction of the Hyundai Creta Electric has further broadened the model's appeal, reinforcing Hyundai's commitment to sustainable mobility. As a result, SUVs now constitute 68.5% of Hyundai's total domestic sales, up from 63.2% in the previous fiscal year
Celebrating a decade since its launch in 2015, the Hyundai Creta continues to epitomize aspirations, style, and reliability for Indian consumers. With over 1.2 million units on Indian roads, the Creta stands as a trusted and aspirational symbol in the nation's automotive landscape.
Audi India has commenced 2025 with impressive momentum, recording sales of 1,223 units in the first quarter, a 17% increase compared to the same period in 2024. This growth is largely attributed to the strong performance of their luxury SUV models, particularly the Audi Q7 and Q8, which continue to be favorites among Indian consumers
The company's pre-owned vehicle program, Audi Approved: plus, also experienced a significant 23% growth year-on-year in Q1 2025. Operating through 26 facilities nationwide, this initiative caters to the rising demand for certified pre-owned luxury cars in India.
In March, Audi expanded its lineup with the launch of the RS Q8 Performance, the most powerful SUV in its global portfolio. This model has received an enthusiastic response, with bookings filled until the third quarter of 2025.
Balbir Singh Dhillon, Head of Audi India, expressed satisfaction with the company's trajectory, stating, "We are pleased to commence 2025 on a positive note with our result of the first quarter. This growth compared to the previous year same time underscores the confidence our customers have in brand Audi and the strength of our product portfolio."
Audi India's current offerings encompass a diverse range of vehicles, including the Audi A4, A6, Q3, Q3 Sportback, Q5, Q7, Q8, S5 Sportback, RS Q8, Q8 e-tron, Q8 e-tron Sportback, e-tron GT, and RS e-tron GT, catering to various preferences in the luxury car segment.
With a robust product lineup and a focus on customer satisfaction, Audi India is well-positioned to sustain its growth trajectory throughout 2025.
Exterior Design Updates
The facelifted Ioniq 6 features a redesigned front end, highlighted by a shark nose-inspired profile and slimmer LED headlights positioned lower in the bumper. The front bumper has been revised to include a wide grille and air intakes, contributing to a sleeker appearance. The side profile is accentuated by black garnishes on the lower doors, while the rear showcases an LED light bar and a prominent ducktail lip spoiler.
Introduction of the N Line Variant
For the first time, Hyundai has introduced an N Line variant of the Ioniq 6, drawing inspiration from the RN22e concept. This sportier version features aggressively styled front and rear bumpers, distinctive alloy wheels, and extensive black detailing at the rear. The N Line also incorporates a two-dimensional Parametric Pixel taillamp design, enhancing its dynamic aesthetic.
Interior Enhancements
Inside, the updated Ioniq 6 receives a new three-spoke steering wheel, premium door trim materials, and a restyled center console for improved ergonomics. The climate control display has been enlarged for better usability. The cabin continues to offer dual 12.3-inch screens for infotainment and instrumentation, ambient lighting, and vehicle-to-load (V2L) capabilities.
Powertrain and Performance
While specific powertrain updates have not been detailed, the current Ioniq 6 offers 53kWh and 77.4kWh battery options, with power outputs ranging from 149bhp to 320bhp, and both rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive configurations. The introduction of the N Line variant hints at potential performance enhancements in future models.
Hyundai's unveiling of the facelifted Ioniq 6 and its N Line variant underscores the brand's commitment to evolving its electric vehicle offerings, blending aesthetic refinements with potential performance advancements.
The eagerly awaited Tata Sierra EV is progressing towards production, with recent design patent images offering a glimpse into its interior. These images suggest that the final model will closely resemble the concept showcased at Auto Expo 2023
Customization Options
Tata Motors plans to offer various personalization options for the Sierra EV's interior. Potential accessories include moss inserts, mini flower vases for door panels, fold-out tray tables, and ambient lamp shades, allowing owners to tailor the cabin to their preferences.
Seating Configurations
The Sierra EV is expected to be available in multiple seating arrangements. Alongside the standard five-seat layout, a four-seat lounge configuration with ottoman functions for rear passengers is anticipated, enhancing comfort and luxury.
Launch Timeline
Tata Motors aims to launch the Sierra EV by the end of 2025, marking the return of this iconic nameplate with modern electric technology
