The Volkswagen Taigun SUV and Virtus sedan models in India have become equipped with six airbags as a standard feature across all variants, enhancing the level of security provided in these vehicles. Earlier, only dual front airbags were included in lower-end variants of these models, whereas the more expensive variants were equipped with six airbags. This makes the Taigun SUV a stronger competitor to the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos, while the Virtus now holds a distinctive position against the Hyundai Verna and Skoda Slavia.
While not mandatory by law, the inclusion of six airbags as standard is a change that a range of car producers, including Hyundai, have adopted across most of their car variants. These six airbags comprise two frontal airbags, a pair of side airbags for those seated in the front, and two curtain airbags designed to safeguard the heads of those sitting in the back seats.
Commenting on this important modification in safety measures, Ashish Gupta, Brand Director of Volkswagen Passenger Cars India, asserted that Volkswagen is proud to have a portfolio of 'India 2.0' cars providing six airbags as standard equipment. A commitment to safer mobility and maintaining security as a key component of its goods in India, he explained, are indicative of Volkswagen's values.
Furthermore, Volkswagen also disclosed that over a lakh units of its GNCAP 5-star rated models, Taigun and Virtus, have been sold in India. Interestingly, 61% of these units were the Taigun model alone, while the high-spec GT Line versions contributed to the remaining 40%.
As for engine options, both the Taigun SUV and Virtus sedan are available with two choices: a 1-litre and a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine. These cars are also equipped with a 6-speed automatic and manual, along with a 7-speed DCT transmission combination. For convenience and a touch of luxury, they also feature a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system complete with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as auto air conditioning, powered and ventilated front seats, an 8-inch digital instrument cluster, ambient lighting, and a single-pane sunroof.
In addition to the standard safety features, hill-hold assist and electronic stability control (ESC) are also included to enhance safety. Pricing for the Virtus range from Rs 11.55 lakh to Rs 19.40 lakh, whereas the Taigun is available between Rs 11.69 lakh and Rs 19.99 lakh, with prices listed as ex-showroom.
The competing models for Virtus include the Hyundai Verna, Honda City, and Skoda Slavia, while the Taigun squares off against the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Honda Elevate.
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.
Tesla is advancing its plans to enter the Indian market by submitting homologation applications for its Model 3 and Model Y electric vehicles (EVs). This crucial step ensures that the vehicles comply with India's regulatory standards before their official launch.
Progress Towards Indian Market Entry:
The Indian government is considering reducing import duties on specific EVs from the previous range of 70%–110% to 15%. This reduction aims to encourage foreign manufacturers like Tesla to enter the Indian market. However, to benefit from these concessions, manufacturers are required to commit to domestic production by investing at least $500 million within three years.
Implications for the Indian EV Market:
Tesla's potential entry is poised to invigorate the Indian EV sector, offering consumers advanced electric mobility options. The Model 3 and Model Y are expected to appeal to a broad audience, aligning with India's push towards sustainable transportation solutions.
As Tesla progresses through the homologation and certification stages, further details regarding the official launch dates and vehicle specifications tailored for the Indian market are anticipated.
Design and Dimensions:
Despite the heavy camouflage, the Tata Sierra's distinctive boxy silhouette is reminiscent of the original model. When observed next to the Hyundai Creta, the Sierra's larger dimensions are evident, suggesting a more spacious interior and commanding road presence. The test vehicle was equipped with alloy wheels, indicating a focus on both style and functionality.
Powertrain Options:
The upcoming Tata Sierra is expected to offer both internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric vehicle (EV) variants:
ICE Version: Anticipated to feature a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine delivering 168bhp and 280Nm of torque. Additionally, a 2.0-litre diesel engine, currently powering the Harrier and Safari models, may be available, producing 168bhp and 350Nm of torque.
EV Version: Set to utilize Tata's Gen2 EV platform with the acti.ev architecture, the Sierra EV is expected to debut later this year, aligning with Tata's commitment to sustainable mobility.
Market Positioning:
The Tata Sierra aims to blend nostalgic design elements with modern features, targeting consumers seeking a robust and versatile SUV experience. Its availability in both ICE and EV formats reflects Tata Motors' strategy to cater to a diverse customer base in the evolving automotive landscape.
As testing progresses, more details regarding the Tata Sierra's specifications, features, and launch timeline are anticipated, generating excitement among automotive enthusiasts and potential buyers alike.
