Kia Carens is making a mark in the Indian car market with its highest-ever monthly sale of 7,900 units recorded in January 2023. Kia India achieved a remarkable milestone in January 2023 with its highest-ever domestic monthly sales of 28,634 units. Kia Motors India recorded a significant increase in sales in January 2023, with a growth of 48 per cent compared to 19,319 units sold during the same month last year. it recorded total sales of 6,50,000 units within four years of its launch in the Indian market. The company reported that its total sales reached 6.51 lakh units in just four years since its launch in India. Kia India made a successful start in January 2023 with the sale of its two best-selling models; Seltos and Sonet. The company achieved remarkable performance by selling 10,470 and 9,261 units of Seltos and Sonet respectively in the month of January. This was followed by the Carens and Carnival SUVs with a sale of 1125 and 1,003 units respectively. Kia's India sale in January 2023 was the highest-ever recorded monthly sale for the company. This surge in sales was driven by record high demand for its Carens model, which has seen exceptional growth in popularity in the Indian market. Kia Motors India recorded a phenomenal sales performance in January 2023. According to Hardeep Singh Brar, National Head, Sales and Marketing at Kia India, Said”, Kia Motors India had an encouraging start to the new year, with its January 2021 sales recorded at 28,634 units. This figure is a new record high for the company, following its strong performance in CY2022. The company registered a record sale in the Indian market, reflecting the strong demand for its products. This is a great achievement for Kia and it would not have been possible without the continued love and support of its customers. This has been possible due to Kia's constant endeavor to keep evolving themselves to suit the requirements of the new-age customers across varied segments. The Kia Concept EV9 and the KA4 have been the talk of the town since the Auto Expo in January 2023. These models, along with several other Kia cars, have driven India’s sale in that month to a whole new level. Our technology and design prowess were exhibited through these concept cars. In addition, the company also plans to introduce personalised vehicle services this year, known as PBVs, which will offer a hassle-free and varied mobility experience for special services in India. This will help Kia Motors continue its growth trend in the coming months as customers look for more convenience while travelling.
2026 Toyota RAV4 Debuts Globally with Electrified Line-Up, Bold Styling & Smarter Tech
Toyota has officially unveiled the 2026 RAV4, the latest iteration of its globally best-selling SUV. With this update, the RAV4 takes a confident step into the electrified future by offering a refreshed design, enhanced hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrains, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance and connectivity features.
Design Refresh: Rugged Meets Futuristic
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 gets a significant exterior facelift, making it look sharper and more aggressive while still retaining its rugged SUV stance. Key changes include:
Toyota continues its electrification strategy by offering the 2026 RAV4 with two eco-friendly powertrains:
Hybrid (HEV): A self-charging system combining a 2.5L petrol engine with an electric motor. Delivers a balanced mix of performance and efficiency.
Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV): Delivers more EV-only range (expected around 60–80 km), with total system output likely exceeding 300 hp.
Both versions are paired with electronic AWD systems, enhancing traction on slippery or uneven terrain, while also improving fuel economy and emissions.
Interior and Technology Upgrade
The cabin of the new RAV4 receives a major overhaul, with a focus on premium materials, intuitive tech, and a connected driving experience.
Interior highlights:
While the 2026 RAV4 has made its global debut, launch timelines for individual markets like India are still under wraps. However, Toyota is expected to roll out the SUV in key global markets by mid-to-late 2025, with the PHEV variant targeted at regions pushing for lower emissions and EV adoption.
In India, the RAV4 has long been anticipated as part of Toyota’s hybrid offensive. The 2026 update could be a strong contender for Indian buyers looking for premium electrified SUVs in the ₹40–50 lakh price segment.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 is not just an aesthetic refresh — it’s a strategic evolution. By pairing bold design with smart electrification and class-leading safety features, Toyota aims to keep the RAV4 at the forefront of the global SUV market. Whether you’re an urban commuter or a weekend adventurer, the new RAV4 is engineered to offer versatility, efficiency, and cutting-edge technology.
2025 Nissan Micra EV Unveiled: Compact, Stylish & Designed for Urban Electric Mobility
Nissan has officially pulled the wraps off the all-new 2025 Micra EV, a stylish and compact electric hatchback built on the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance’s CMF-BEV platform. Set to go on sale in Europe in 2026, the Micra EV blends futuristic design, everyday practicality, and electric efficiency — all at an accessible price point.
Design: French Elegance with Japanese Precision
While the 2025 Micra EV carries Nissan’s badge, the car’s development and manufacturing will be spearheaded by Renault in France. It borrows heavily from the Renault 5 EV, sharing a similar retro-modern aesthetic with distinctive Nissan styling cues.
Key design highlights include:
The 2025 Nissan Micra EV will be manufactured in Renault’s ElectriCity hub in France, with production expected to begin in late 2025. Market availability is likely to start in early 2026 across Europe, followed by potential launches in other global markets depending on EV policy rollouts.
Expected price: Around €25,000 to €28,000, positioning it as an affordable EV for mass-market buyers.
Final Thoughts
With the unveiling of the 2025 Micra EV, Nissan signals its strong commitment to electrifying the small car segment. It’s not just a rebadged Renault 5 — it’s a refined blend of Japanese technology and French flair, offering practicality, clean energy, and stylish design in a compact package.
Whether you're navigating crowded city streets or looking for an eco-conscious daily commuter, the Micra EV is set to become a game-changer in the subcompact EV category.
Mahindra Bolero & Bolero Neo Bold Edition Unveiled with Rugged Updates, Starting at ₹10.02 Lakh
Mahindra has given its iconic SUVs, the Bolero and Bolero Neo, a fresh lease of life with the introduction of the new Bold Edition trims. Targeted at SUV lovers who crave rugged looks with urban flair, these special editions bring a host of cosmetic upgrades while keeping the proven mechanicals unchanged.
What's New in the Bold Edition?
The Mahindra Bolero Bold Edition, based on the top-end B6 (O) variant, flaunts a revised aesthetic package. Enhancements include:
Both Bold Editions continue to be powered by Mahindra’s tried-and-tested 1.5-litre, 3-cylinder diesel engine, delivering:
The Mahindra Bolero Bold Edition is priced at ₹10.02 lakh, while the Bolero Neo Bold Edition comes in slightly higher at ₹11.50 lakh (ex-showroom). With these editions, Mahindra aims to strengthen its hold in the entry-level SUV market, where the Bolero nameplate continues to be one of the best-selling utility vehicles in rural and semi-urban India.
Final Thoughts
The Bold Editions of the Bolero and Bolero Neo offer a refreshing aesthetic upgrade while retaining the rugged DNA that has defined these SUVs for decades. Whether it’s for conquering rough terrains or turning heads in the city, the Bold Editions strike a balance between style and substance.
Bajaj Auto has secured a €566 million (approximately ₹5,431 crore) unsecured loan through its Netherlands-based subsidiary, Bajaj Auto International Holdings BV, to support the restructuring of Austrian motorcycle manufacturer KTM AG. This financial move comes ahead of KTM's critical May 23, 2025, deadline to deposit €548 million with its creditors, a requisite step to avoid liquidation.
Background on KTM's Financial Challenges
KTM AG filed for bankruptcy in November 2024, citing an inability to service debts accrued from the acquisition of MV Agusta and substantial investments in its MotoGP operations. These financial strains were exacerbated by a significant downturn in two-wheeler demand in Europe, leading to inflated inventories and operational challenges.
Bajaj Auto's Continued Support
Since KTM's bankruptcy filing, Bajaj Auto has demonstrated ongoing support through multiple financial infusions totaling €200 million to date. These contributions have been instrumental in resuming production at KTM's Mattighofen plant and in meeting the conditions set forth in the restructuring plan, approved by creditors in February 2025. However, production at the plant stopped again on April 28, 2025, due to supply issues stemming from concerns over KTM AG's ability to pay suppliers.
Bajaj-KTM Ownership Structure
Bajaj Auto holds a 49.9% stake in Pierer Bajaj AG, a joint venture with Austrian entrepreneur Stefan Pierer, which in turn owns a majority stake in Pierer Mobility AG, the parent company of KTM AG. This layered ownership structure positions Bajaj Auto as a significant stakeholder in KTM's operations and strategic decisions.
Market Response
Following the announcement of the loan, Bajaj Auto's shares rose by over 1%, reflecting investor confidence in the company's strategic support for its European affiliate. Analysts view this move as a decisive step to stabilize KTM AG's financial position and safeguard Bajaj Auto's investment.
The most notable change is the launch of the CVT-equipped Magna variant, which is priced at ₹8.89 lakh (ex-showroom), making the automatic transmission option more accessible by ₹58,000 compared to the previous entry point.
Expanded Variant Lineup
In addition to the new Magna CVT, Hyundai has introduced the Magna Executive variant, priced at ₹7.51 lakh (ex-showroom). This variant is ₹27,000 more affordable than the standard Magna MT, yet it retains the same feature set, offering customers a value-packed option.
Enhanced Features in Sportz (O) Trim
The Sportz (O) variant has received feature upgrades, including keyless entry, a voice-enabled sunroof, and a 7-speaker Bose audio system. These additions come with a price increase of up to ₹26,000, positioning the Sportz (O) CVT at ₹10.00 lakh (ex-showroom).
Updated Price List
Note: Dual-tone options are available at an additional cost of ₹15,000.
Strategic Implications
Hyundai's introduction of the Magna CVT and Magna Executive variants reflects a strategic effort to broaden the i20's market appeal. By offering an automatic transmission at a more competitive price point and a value-rich manual variant, Hyundai aims to attract a wider customer base seeking premium features in the hatchback segment.
Engine and Performance
The Rebel 500 is powered by a 471cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine that delivers 46 hp and 43.3 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed gearbox. This setup offers a smooth and responsive ride, suitable for both city commuting and highway cruising.
Design and Features
Embracing a minimalist bobber aesthetic, the Rebel 500 features a tubular steel frame, low seat height of 690mm, and 16-inch wheels fitted with Dunlop tires (130/90 front and 150/80 rear). The motorcycle is equipped with telescopic front forks, dual rear shock absorbers, front and rear disc brakes, and dual-channel ABS for enhanced safety. An inverted LCD display provides essential ride information.
Availability and Booking
The Rebel 500 will be available through select BigWing Top Line dealerships in Gurugram, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. Bookings are now open, with deliveries expected to commence in June 2025.
Competition
In the Indian market, the Rebel 500 competes with models like the Kawasaki Eliminator 500, Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650, and Royal Enfield Shotgun 650. While the Rebel 500 is priced higher than the Royal Enfield offerings, it undercuts the Kawasaki Eliminator 500 by ₹64,000.
Conclusion
The launch of the Honda Rebel 500 introduces a new option for riders seeking a mid-capacity cruiser with a blend of classic styling and modern performance. With its competitive pricing and feature set, the Rebel 500 is poised to make a significant impact in the Indian cruiser segment.
Volkswagen is set to launch the eighth-generation Golf GTI in India on May 26, 2025. This performance hatchback will arrive as a Completely Built Unit (CBU), with the first batch of 150 units already sold out. Deliveries are scheduled to commence in June through select Volkswagen dealerships across the country.
Performance and Powertrain
Under the hood, the Golf GTI houses a 2.0-litre turbocharged TSI petrol engine that delivers 265 horsepower and 370 Nm of torque. Paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, the hatchback accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h.
Exterior Design
The Golf GTI boasts a sporty exterior with an illuminated Volkswagen logo and GTI badge on the upper grille. It features Matrix LED headlights, a honeycomb-patterned air dam, and X-shaped fog lights on the front bumper. Red GTI badges and brake calipers complement the 18-inch alloy wheels, while the rear showcases smoked LED tail-lights, a roof spoiler, and twin chrome exhaust tips. Color options include Kings Red, Grenadilla Black, Oryx White, and Moonstone Grey.
Interior Features
Inside, the Golf GTI is equipped with a leather-wrapped sports steering wheel featuring a GTI clasp, a 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a 10.25-inch digital driver display. Additional amenities include wireless charging, ambient lighting, a seven-speaker sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and tartan seat upholstery with red accents.
Pricing and Availability
The Golf GTI is expected to be priced around ₹60 lakh (on-road), making it Volkswagen's most expensive offering in India. This positions it above the Tiguan R Line SUV, which is priced at ₹56.7 lakh (on-road, Delhi).
Design and Platform
The Harrier EV retains the bold and muscular design of its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterpart, featuring vertical LED headlamps, blade-shaped daytime running lights (DRLs), a blacked-out D-pillar, and a floating roofline. EV-specific elements include a closed-off grille, chrome-trimmed air dam, silver body cladding, and distinct ".EV" and "HARRIER.EV" badging
Built on Tata's Acti.ev (Gen 2) architecture, an evolution of the Omega platform, the Harrier EV is designed to accommodate a larger battery pack and dual-motor setup, enabling an all-wheel-drive (AWD) configuration.
Performance and Range
While exact specifications are yet to be disclosed, the Harrier EV is expected to offer a driving range of approximately 500 km on a single charge, thanks to its substantial battery capacity. The dual-motor AWD system is anticipated to deliver robust performance, catering to both urban commuting and off-road adventures.
Interior and Features
Inside, the Harrier EV mirrors the premium feel of its ICE sibling, featuring a dual-tone dashboard, a 12.3-inch Harman infotainment system, a 10.25-inch fully digital instrument cluster, touch-based HVAC controls, and a panoramic sunroof. Advanced features such as Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) and Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) capabilities are expected, allowing the vehicle to power external devices and appliances.
Pricing and Competition
The Tata Harrier EV is projected to be priced between ₹23 lakh and ₹28 lakh (ex-showroom), positioning it competitively against rivals like the Hyundai Creta EV, MG ZS EV, and the upcoming Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara.
Conclusion
With the launch of the Harrier EV, Tata Motors is poised to strengthen its foothold in the EV market, offering consumers a blend of performance, range, and advanced features in a familiar SUV package. The official unveiling on June 3 will provide further insights into this much-anticipated electric SUV.
