When it comes to safety, 40% of buyers are choosing the variants of the Kia Seltos equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).
July 2023 saw the Seltos receive a significant overhaul where it was introduced with a fresh look and added features. These additions included upgraded safety options, as well as the introduction of the 1.5-liter turbo-petrol engine. Since this launch, the total bookings for Kia Seltos have surpassed the 100,000 mark, averaging 13,500 reservations each month.
The Majority of Buyers Opt for Higher-spec Variants
Kia’s data shows that 80% of Seltos customers are choosing the better-equipped versions, starting at HTK+. They also lean towards the SUV versions fitted with the panoramic sunroof. With the facelift, came the implementation of ADAS, and Kia reports that over 40% of new Seltos buyers are opting for this safety feature.
High Demand for Automatic Variants
The upgraded Kia Seltos comes with three engine options: the 1.5-liter naturally aspirated (NA) petrol, the 1.5-liter diesel, and the 1.5-liter turbo-petrol. All of these have the option of an automatic transmission. Kia reports that almost half of all new Seltos bookings have been for these automatic options. The diesel-powered option is also proving popular, accounting for 42% of total bookings to date.
Top-End Features and Safety
The Seltos is fitted with luxury features such as dual 10.25-inch digital driver’s display and touchscreen infotainment, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. It also boasts an air purifier, ambient lighting, and ventilated front seats.
With regard to safety, it is equipped with six airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), an all-around view camera, and ADAS which includes lane keep assist, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control.
Engine and Transmission Details
Kia introduced the option of a 6-speed manual transmission with the Seltos diesel engine in January 2024. This makes it the only SUV in its segment to offer an iMT setup, adding to its appeal.
Competitive Pricing and Rivals
With prices ranging from Rs 10.90 lakh to Rs 20.30 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), the compact SUV competes with the Hyundai Creta, Maruti Grand Vitara, Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun, Honda Elevate, MG Astor, and Citroen C3 Aircross.
Mercedes-Benz has introduced the Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series in India, priced at ₹4.2 crore (ex-showroom). This luxury roadster, unveiled globally in 2024, is acclaimed as Maybach's sportiest model to date. Notably, only three units are allocated for the Indian market this year, with bookings now open.
Exterior Design:
Jeep has introduced the Compass Sandstorm Edition in India, a limited-run variant that enhances the Compass lineup with unique aesthetic and feature upgrades. This special edition is priced at ₹19.49 lakh, reflecting a ₹50,000 premium over the base variant.
Available Variants and Pricing
The Sandstorm Edition is offered across select variants, with pricing as follows:
The Compass Sandstorm Edition distinguishes itself with:
Design Highlights:
Key Features:
Variant Pricing: The Ebony Edition is approximately ₹15,000 more than the standard AX7 and AX7 L variants.
Safety Update:
Rear Seat Belt Reminders: All Mahindra XUV700 variants now come standard with rear seat belt reminders, enhancing passenger safety.
The XUV700 Ebony Limited Edition is now available for bookings, offering customers a unique blend of style and performance.
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the 2025 CLA, introducing both electric and hybrid variants to its lineup. This move signifies a shift from developing separate electric models to integrating diverse powertrains within a single model range.
Electric Variant:
Porsche is working on an all-new SUV that will be available with both petrol and hybrid powertrains, expanding its portfolio beyond its existing electric and internal combustion engine (ICE) offerings. This upcoming model is expected to provide customers with a blend of performance, efficiency, and adaptability to evolving market trends.
New Model Strategy and Market Positioning
Engine Specifications:
New Turbocharged Engine: The foundation of this hybrid system is a newly developed 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, internally designated as the G20E. This engine is engineered to support both plug-in hybrid and mild-hybrid configurations.
Compact Design: Featuring a shorter piston stroke and lightweight construction, the Toyota G20E engine is optimized for hybrid integration without significantly increasing the vehicle's weight.
Performance Expectations:
Power Output: In standard road versions, the G20E engine is anticipated to produce over 400 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque. For motorsport applications, outputs exceeding 600 horsepower are projected.
Motorsport and Production Integration:
Versatile Application: The G20E engine is designed for both competitive motorsport and consumer vehicles, aligning with Toyota's strategy to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce emissions across its performance lineup.
Prototype Testing: The engine has been showcased in the mid-engined GR Yaris M Concept, indicating ongoing development and testing efforts.
Future Outlook:
By integrating hybrid technology into its GR sports cars, Toyota aims to balance high performance with environmental responsibility, ensuring compliance with stringent emission standards in various markets.
As development progresses, more detailed specifications and launch timelines for these hybrid-powered GR models are expected to be announced.
Aston Martin is set to introduce its latest flagship grand tourer, the 2025 Vanquish, to the Indian market on March 22.
This new model succeeds the DBS Superleggera and positions itself as a direct competitor to the Ferrari 12Cilindri.
Performance and Powertrain:
At the heart of the Vanquish lies a formidable 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine, delivering an impressive 835 horsepower and 1,000 Nm of torque. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission that channels power to the rear wheels, the Vanquish accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in a swift 3.2 seconds and reaches a top speed of 345 km/h.
Design and Features:
Exterior:
The 2025 Aston Martin Vanquish is anticipated to be priced above ₹6 crore (ex-showroom) in India, excluding optional features. This pricing positions it as a premium offering in the luxury sports car segment.
With its blend of performance, luxury, and cutting-edge technology, the Vanquish aims to set new benchmarks in the Indian automotive landscape.