In an effort to stay competitive in the electronic vehicle market, Kia has introduced a newly revamped model of their popular EV6. Currently, only available in Korea, sales in the UK are expected to begin later in 2024, approximately three years since the original model's release. The new model monetizes the advantage of having a larger battery, shifting from 77kWh to 84kWh, which would further extend the vehicle's range.
The auto enthusiasts have primarily focused their discussion on the new battery. With an increase of only seven kilowatt-hours, the model's range is extended by a modest 12 miles according to Korean test trials. This increase may seem insignificant—since even a two-mile increase per kilowatt-hour would add a mere 14 miles—yet it's sufficient to boost the single-motor car model with a 229hp to an impressive 340 miles. Ideally, we could anticipate a 350-mile range on the WLTP. The range for the 326hp, dual-motor model, will rise to 326 miles, and the GT variant will reach a best figure of 275 miles.
Kia's EV6 redesign draws inspiration from the larger EV9 model, integrating elements from EV3 and EV5, which will soon be joining the Kia electric vehicle family. The most noticeable feature alterations are to the headlights, wheel design, and reprofiled rear end. It's apparent that the EV6 is aimed at drivers who appreciate a car that makes a statement. The featured new blue hue also adds a fresh look.
The car’s interior has been given an update as well, with a sleeker touchscreen, redesigned wheel, and an overall increase in quality. One of the new additions is the availability of a tan leather option. Thanks to over-the-air updates, the car's infotainment system stays current with minimal effort from the owner and without requiring to visit a dealership.
While details about the revised EV6 GT have yet to be disclosed, it's highly likely that this variant will undergo significant improvements. With Hyundai's claims of unrivaled vehicle performance, Kia will undoubtedly respond with enhanced power and chassis adjustments. However, expect Kia to prioritize the introduction of the family-friendly EV3 and EV5 SUVs before proceeding with Drift Mode enhancements.
Information pertaining to UK pricing and specification options will be available soon. Both the single- and dual-motor versions are expected to retain their existing power. As a result, it could be an excellent opportunity to find a deal on the current model. It's already feasible to find a rear-wheel drive EV6 for less than £25,000, and the all-wheel-drive variant for just under £28,000. For a budget of £35,000, both GT-Line models can be obtained with minimal mileage. For just a bit more, one can enjoy the thrill of a 160mph GT.
Latest articles in Electric Vehicles include a review of the Bentley Blower Junior EV, a glimpse at the Polestar 5 prototype that charges in 10 minutes, the MG Cyberster’s on-sale announcement with a price tag of £55k, and the unveiling of an all-new electric G-Class with an impressive 579hp.
KTM has unveiled the 2025 450 Rally Replica, a limited-edition motorcycle designed to deliver Dakar-level performance to enthusiasts. Alongside it, the brand introduced the ultra-exclusive 450 Rally Replica Sanders Edition, commemorating Daniel Sanders' 2024 Dakar victory.
2025 KTM 450 Rally Replica: A Race-Ready Machine
The 2025 450 Rally Replica is a near-identical version of KTM's factory race bike used in the Dakar Rally. Key features include:
Engine: 450cc fuel-injected SOHC engine paired with a six-speed transmission and hydraulic clutch.
Frame: Hand-welded, laser-cut hydro-formed components with a die-cast aluminium swingarm.
Suspension: WP Pro components with a 49mm WP XACT Pro closed cartridge cone fork at the front and a fully customizable WP XACT shock at the rear.
Cooling System: Dual radiators for enhanced temperature control.
Fuel Capacity: Three fuel tanks totaling 34.5 liters.
Navigation: Carbon fiber navigation tower with integrated warning lights and brackets for a digital roadbook system.
Only 150 units of this model will be produced, making it a coveted choice for rally enthusiasts.
Sanders Edition: Honoring a Champion
The 450 Rally Replica Sanders Edition is limited to just 5 units, celebrating Daniel Sanders' 2024 Dakar victory. Unique attributes include:
Livery: Full factory Red Bull design with a Daniel Sanders sticker kit.
Signed Memorabilia: Autographed number plate sticker.
Wheels and Tires: Factory rim set with Michelin race tires and an additional road-biased rim set with homologated street tires
This edition offers fans a rare opportunity to own a piece of rally history.
Stay tuned to CarTopNews for the latest updates on KTM's rally offerings and other automotive news.
Tesla's Entry into the Indian Market
Tesla's much-anticipated entry into the Indian automotive market appears imminent as the facelifted Model Y, internally codenamed "Juniper," has been spotted testing on Indian roads. Recent sightings of camouflaged test mules near Mumbai and on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway indicate that Tesla is actively preparing for its debut in India.
Design and Exterior Enhancements
The 2025 Model Y facelift introduces several design updates:
Front Fascia: Features a sleeker nose with a split headlamp setup and a full-width LED daytime running light.
Overall Aesthetics: The vehicle boasts a more aerodynamic profile, contributing to improved efficiency.
Interior and Technological Upgrades
Inside, the Model Y maintains Tesla's minimalist design ethos:
Central Display: A 15.4-inch touchscreen serves as the primary interface for vehicle controls and infotainment.
Rear Passenger Comfort: An 8-inch display offers entertainment options for rear occupants
Advanced Features: The vehicle is expected to come equipped with Tesla's Autopilot suite, offering advanced driver-assistance capabilities.
Performance and Range
The Model Y is anticipated to be available in two variants in India:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): Offers a range of up to 719 km (CLTC cycle) and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds.
Long-Range All-Wheel Drive (AWD): Provides a range of 662 km and achieves 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds.
Tesla's Strategic Moves in India
Tesla has reportedly secured a showroom location in Mumbai's Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) and is exploring additional sites in Delhi. The company has also initiated the homologation process for both the Model Y and Model 3, indicating a serious commitment to the Indian market.
Expected Pricing and Competitors
While official pricing has not been announced, industry estimates suggest that the Model Y could be priced between ₹65 lakh and ₹70 lakh (ex-showroom). Upon launch, it will compete with other premium electric SUVs in India, such as the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, Volvo XC40 Recharge, and the upcoming BYD Sealion 7.
Conclusion
The sighting of the Tesla Model Y facelift on Indian roads marks a significant step toward the company's entry into the Indian EV market. With its blend of performance, advanced technology, and modern design, the Model Y is poised to make a substantial impact upon its anticipated launch.
Stay tuned to CarTopNews for the latest updates on Tesla's developments in India and other automotive news.
Tata Motors has officially launched the Harrier EV in India at an introductory price of ₹21.49 lakh (ex-showroom). This all-electric SUV becomes the flagship model in Tata's EV lineup, offering advanced features, impressive range, and robust performance
Battery Options and Performance
The Harrier EV is available with two battery pack options:
65kWh Battery Pack: Powers a single motor on the rear axle, delivering 238hp
75kWh Battery Pack: Features a dual-motor setup with one motor on each axle, providing a combined output of 396hp and 504Nm of torque.
The 75kWh variant offers a MIDC-certified range of up to 627km, while internal testing indicates a real-world range between 480-505km.
Charging Capabilities
Charging options for the Harrier EV include:
7.2kW AC Charger: Charges the battery from 10% to 100% in approximately 10.7 hours.
120kW DC Fast Charger: Charges the battery from 20% to 80% in just 25 minutes.
These options ensure flexibility and convenience for various charging needs.
Design and Dimensions
The Harrier EV retains the design language of its ICE counterpart with subtle EV-specific enhancements:
Exterior: Features a closed-off grille, revised bumper, and 19-inch aero-optimized alloy wheels.
Dimensions: Slightly larger than the standard Harrier, measuring 2mm longer, 210mm wider, and 22mm taller, with a wheelbase of 2,741mm.
Color Options: Available in Empowered Oxide, Nainital Nocturne, Pristine White, and Pure Grey. A Stealth Edition with blacked-out elements is also offered.
Interior and Features
The Tata Harrier EV's cabin is equipped with premium features:
Infotainment: 14.53-inch Samsung Neo QLED touchscreen, a world-first in automotive displays.
Comfort: Ventilated and powered front seats, panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, and a 10-speaker JBL sound system with Dolby Atmos 5.1
Technology: Touch-based HVAC controls, rotary drive mode selector, electronic parking brake, and a digital driver's display.
Safety: Level 2 ADAS with features like adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, and a 540-degree surround camera view.
Off-Road Capabilities
The dual-motor AWD variant of the Harrier EV includes:
Drive Modes: Multiple terrain modes such as snow, sand, rock crawl, and custom settings.
Boost Mode: Provides enhanced performance for challenging terrains.
Transparent Bonnet View: Utilizes the 360-degree camera system to offer a clear view of the terrain ahead, aiding in off-road navigation.
Availability and Competitors
Bookings: Set to commence on July 2, 2025.
Competitors: The Harrier EV will compete with models like the Mahindra XEV 9e, BE 6, Hyundai Creta Electric, and the upcoming Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara.
CarTopNews Verdict
The Tata Harrier EV combines robust performance, advanced features, and impressive range, positioning itself as a strong contender in the premium electric SUV segment. Its blend of technology and practicality makes it an attractive option for consumers seeking a versatile and eco-friendly vehicle.
2025 Kawasaki Z900 launched at ₹9.52 lakh with ride-by-wire, cruise control, quickshifter, TFT dash, and revised styling. Full specs and rivals here.
Kawasaki has launched the 2025 Z900 in India, priced at ₹9.52 lakh (ex-showroom). This updated model brings significant enhancements in electronics, styling, and compliance, while retaining its powerful engine and frame.
What's New in the 2025 Kawasaki Z900?
The 2025 Z900 receives several updates to enhance its appeal:
Ride-by-Wire Throttle: Enables smoother throttle response and allows for the integration of advanced electronic aids.
Cruise Control: Provides added comfort during long rides.
Bidirectional Quickshifter: Facilitates seamless gear shifts without using the clutch.
5-Inch TFT Display: A new Bluetooth-compatible screen offers improved visibility and connectivity features
Revised Styling: The headlight design now resembles the smaller Z500, and the seat has added cushioning for enhanced comfort
Upgraded Brakes and Tyres: Features radially-mounted 4-piston Nissin calipers with 300mm dual discs at the front, and new Dunlop Sportmax Q5A tyres for better grip.
These updates aim to provide a more refined and enjoyable riding experience.
Engine and Performance
The Z900 continues to be powered by the same 948cc, four-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine, delivering 125hp and 98.6Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed gearbox. This setup ensures a smooth and responsive performance, suitable for both city commuting and spirited riding.
Color Options
The 2025 Z900 is available in two dual-tone color schemes:
Metallic Black/Lime Green
Metallic Carbon/Red
These options add a fresh and dynamic look to the motorcycle, appealing to a wide range of riders.
Competitors
In the Indian market, the Kawasaki Z900 competes with:
Honda CB650R: Priced between ₹9.20 lakh and ₹9.60 lakh.
Triumph Street Triple R: Priced between ₹10.17 lakh and ₹10.43 lakh
Ducati Monster: Priced at ₹12.95 lakh.
The Z900's combination of performance, features, and pricing positions it as a strong contender in the middleweight naked bike segment.
CarTopNews Take
The 2025 Kawasaki Z900's updates enhance its value proposition, offering riders advanced features and improved comfort without a significant price increase. Its blend of performance and modern technology makes it a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking a versatile and exciting motorcycle.
Royal Enfield Fuel Fury 650: Born to Race the Desert
Royal Enfield has pushed the envelope of custom motorcycle design once again with the Fuel Fury 650, a bespoke off-road scrambler built upon the Bear 650 platform. This build is a collaborative effort between Royal Enfield, Fuel Motorcycles (Spain), and Bandarra Motorcycles, resulting in a machine made to dominate desert terrain and honor a legendary racing legacy.
The Fuel Fury 650 isn’t just a cosmetic custom—it’s a functional rally-inspired motorcycle engineered for the harshest of terrains.
Key Technical Upgrades on the Fuel Fury 650
The Bear 650 was already an aggressive factory-ready scrambler, but the Fuel Fury 650 takes it several notches higher for desert racing and off-road touring. Here's what sets it apart:
This build not only makes the motorcycle look aggressive, but also significantly enhances its trail endurance, rider ergonomics, and off-road control.
** Racing Heritage: A Tribute to the Big Bear Run**
The Fuel Fury 650 is more than just a hardcore scrambler—it’s a tribute to Eddie Mulder, the 16-year-old American racing legend who rode a 500cc Royal Enfield Fury to victory in the 1960 Big Bear Run in California. This 150-mile off-road event was one of the toughest desert races of its time, and Mulder’s victory solidified Royal Enfield’s reputation for rugged reliability.
This heritage is subtly embedded in the design:
Number 249 on the side panels honors Mulder’s original race number
Chequered flag graphics add a retro rally flair
Fuel branding and a minimalistic design maintain the vintage racer aesthetic
Engine & Drivetrain (Unchanged from Bear 650)
While the base engine setup hasn’t been changed, the Royal Enfield 648cc parallel-twin continues to deliver:
The performance is now matched by serious off-road hardware, making this scrambler trail-conquering and tarmac-worthy.
Will Fuel Fury 650 Come to India
As of now, the Fuel Fury 650 is a one-off custom build, made to showcase what Royal Enfield's Bear 650 platform is capable of. However, given Royal Enfield’s history of producing limited edition or spin-off custom-inspired models, there’s a strong chance we might see a Bear 650 Rally Edition inspired by this build in the future.
CarTopNews Take
The Fuel Fury 650 is a thrilling example of what happens when heritage, creativity, and off-road engineering come together. This build isn't just a nod to the past—it's a blueprint for Royal Enfield’s future in adventure and desert-ready motorcycles. Whether or not it makes it to production, it proves the 650 platform is one of the most versatile in Royal Enfield's arsenal.
Bentley has unveiled the 2025 Bentayga Speed, marking it as the brand's fastest SUV to date. This new iteration replaces the previous 6.0-litre W12 engine with a more potent 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8, delivering enhanced performance and agility
Performance and Powertrain
The 2025 Bentayga Speed is equipped with a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine producing 650hp and 850Nm of torque. This setup enables the SUV to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.6 seconds and achieve a top speed of 310 km/h. Compared to its predecessor's W12 engine, the new V8 offers 15hp more power, albeit with a slight decrease of 50Nm in torque. The switch to the V8 also results in a weight reduction of 42kg, bringing the kerb weight down to 2,466kg, enhancing the vehicle's overall dynamics.
Chassis and Driving Dynamics
Bentley has refined the Bentayga Speed's driving experience by reworking its drive modes. The Sport mode now increases damper stiffness by 15% and relaxes the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) to allow for more dynamic handling. Additionally, the inclusion of rear-wheel steering improves both low-speed maneuverability and high-speed stability.
Design and Interior Enhancements
Externally, the Bentayga Speed features distinctive 'Speed' badges and comes standard with 22-inch wheels, with optional 23-inch wheels available that can be paired with carbon-ceramic brakes. Inside, the SUV boasts a redesigned digital driver's display, 'Speed' branding on the dashboard and treadplates, and embroidered 'Speed' logos on the seats, emphasizing its performance-oriented character.
Availability in India
While Bentley has not officially announced the launch of the 2025 Bentayga Speed in India, the brand's previous models, including the Bentayga W12 and V8, have been available in the Indian market. Given the growing demand for high-performance luxury SUVs in India, it's plausible that Bentley may introduce the new Bentayga Speed to Indian customers in the near future
Conclusion
The 2025 Bentley Bentayga Speed sets a new benchmark for luxury performance SUVs, combining Bentley's signature opulence with unprecedented speed and agility. Its enhanced powertrain, refined dynamics, and distinctive design elements make it a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking the pinnacle of SUV performance.
Toyota's upcoming FJ Cruiser, often dubbed the "Mini Fortuner," has recently had its design patent leaked, sparking excitement among SUV enthusiasts. This new model is expected to blend rugged off-road capabilities with a compact design, potentially positioning it below the Fortuner in Toyota's lineup.
Design and Platform
The leaked patent images reveal a boxy silhouette with straight lines, prominent front fenders, thick C-pillars, and an upright rear end featuring a tailgate-mounted spare wheel. The lower sections, including bumpers and side skirts, are adorned with plastic cladding, emphasizing its off-road readiness.
Underpinning the FJ Cruiser is likely an altered version of Toyota's IMV ladder frame chassis, shared with models like the Hilux Champ, Fortuner, and Innova Crysta. This platform choice suggests a focus on durability and off-road performance.
Expected Powertrain
While official details remain unconfirmed, the FJ Cruiser is anticipated to house a 2.7-liter four-cylinder petrol engine, similar to the one found in the Fortuner. This engine choice would balance performance with efficiency, catering to both urban and adventurous driving scenarios
Potential Indian Market Entry
Toyota has not officially announced plans to launch the FJ Cruiser in India. However, if introduced, it would likely sit below the Fortuner, targeting competitors like the Mahindra Thar Roxx. Its compact size combined with off-road prowess could appeal to Indian consumers seeking versatility and adventure.
Conclusion
The Toyota FJ Cruiser's leaked design patent offers a glimpse into a vehicle that marries classic rugged aesthetics with modern engineering. As the SUV market continues to evolve, the FJ Cruiser could carve a niche for itself, especially among those valuing off-road capabilities in a more compact package.
For more updates on the Toyota FJ Cruiser and other automotive news, stay tuned to CarTopNews.
Tata Harrier EV Conquers Elephant Rock: EV Meets Adventure
Tata Motors is redefining electric mobility by combining eco-conscious design with rugged capabilities. The upcoming Tata Harrier EV has just proven its off-road mettle by climbing the steep and uneven Elephant Rock trail, sending a bold message to enthusiasts—electric can be adventurous too.
This demonstration highlights Tata’s commitment to building EVs that aren’t just urban runabouts but also capable machines suited for the Indian terrain.
EVs Aren’t Just for Cities Anymore
The Tata Harrier EV’s successful ascent of Elephant Rock in Bengaluru showcased its:
Instant torque delivery, ideal for steep inclines
All-wheel-drive capability (dual-motor setup expected)
Robust suspension setup based on Tata’s Omega architecture
High ground clearance and approach angle, similar to its ICE sibling
While full specs haven’t been revealed yet, the off-road demo gives us a preview of what the electric Harrier is truly capable of in the real world
What We Know So Far: Harrier EV Specifications (Expected).
Tata is expected to position the Harrier EV as a premium electric SUV that rivals the likes of the upcoming Mahindra XUV.e8 and Hyundai Creta EV.
EV Adventure with Sustainability in Mind
This off-road event is part of Tata’s campaign to break myths about electric SUVs—that they are limited to tarmac and range anxiety. The Harrier EV’s performance up the rocky trail demonstrates how electric torque and drivetrain engineering can deliver serious capability even on tough terrains.
Social Media Buzz & Brand Message
The Elephant Rock challenge wasn’t just about showcasing a vehicle—it was about shifting perceptions. Tata Motors smartly used this moment to:
Spark conversations around “EV + SUV = Capability”
Drive awareness of the upcoming launch
Reinforce trust in Tata's growing EV portfolio (Nexon EV, Punch EV, and now Harrier EV)
The Tata Harrier EV climbing Elephant Rock isn’t just a stunt—it’s a statement. With rugged EVs like this, Tata Motors is setting a benchmark for electric SUVs in India. If priced well and packed with features, this could become the go-to electric SUV for Indian families who don’t want to compromise on adventure.
