The acclaimed A110 set the bar high for sports cars in 2017, and now the newly unveiled A290 from Alpine is aiming to do the same for the realm of electric hot hatches. This fresh addition to the Alpine dream garage is turning heads as the company's second production model and its first-ever electric vehicle (EV). As it steps into the electrified hot hatch arena, Alpine hopes to not merely fit in but also outshine the competition.
Priced around £40k (with a starting Euro price of 38,000, though right-hand-drive versions won't be available until next year), the A290 was recently debuted at Le Mans and holds promises of infusing the A110's charm into this new EV. Interestingly, it closely resembles the Beta concept car, a detail previously criticized for being unattainable in the real world. Yet despite minor changes like the removal of the race car interior and modified carbon, there remains a clear link.
On the other hand, the A290 emerges as more than just a revamped 5 E-Tech; its AmpR platform may be common with a Renault, but it sports 60mm wider tracks with standard 19-inch wheels and a unique Alpine swoosh on the side, harking back to the old mid-engined 5s. The 'Iconic' wheels are a nod to the A310 and the A110, although the new 'Snowflakes' may not be as visually appealing to many onlookers.
Inside, Alpine's influence is apparent. But a few surprisingly sharp features stand out, such as drive buttons similar to the A110, F1-inspired wheel buttons, and a highly functional Google Automotive operating system. It carries a sense of luxury with sustainable Nappa leather on high spec models and a Devialet sound system. These elements put together make up an interior that feels smart and modern.
The A290 will come in variations offering 180hp/210 lb ft or 220hp/221lb ft, all powered by the same 52kWh battery. It is encouraging to note that the estimated weight for all models is quoted at a light 1,479kg. Performance-wise, the 220hp cars are expected to accelerate from 0 to 62mph in a second and reach a speed of 99mph. The specifics of energy consumption have not been revealed, however, the 180hp A290s are expected to offer a range of 'up to about 380km' (236 miles).
The design of the A290 is compact and powerful. It's under 4m long but its wider tracks make it 1,820mm wide. The A290 has room for five passengers and offers a boot space of 326 liters in all models. But what will excite enthusiasts the most are the intricate details: sporting Michelin Pilot Sport 5 bespoke to the car, a weight distribution of 57:43 promising a sharp front end and playful rear, obsessive focus on brake feel to replicate that of an A110’s, unique anti-roll bars, and more. This model's design and specifications give every reason for optimism.
But what about the sound? After all, it is an essential aspect of a driving experience. The A290 will carry an 'Alternative Sound' offering a sporty tone for daily use as well as an 'Alpine Sound' offering unique sound patterns designed to immerse the driver fully into the A290 experience. However, the decision not to create artificial sounds has resulted in a somewhat ordinary hum. It may feel different behind the wheel, but presently it's merely a buzz - either loud or quiet.
Despite the sound, there are a lot of exciting features. The Alpine Torque Technology, an upstream torque management system, promises greater driving pleasure and performance. Moreover, unique challenges through the car's infotainment system provide an engaging, gamified experience that leverages the Alpine's capabilities and your driving skills.
Alpine CEO, Philippe Krief, encapsulate this exuberance with his words, "Our Alpine A290 is the first model of a new electric generation, inaugurating our Dream Garage in the finest possible way...[it] resurrects a forgotten category, the hot hatch, so much loved for the driving pleasure it delivers." By the end of this year, the A290's prowess will hopefully be affirmed.
Bentley’s Bold Brand Refresh: New Logo & Concept Teased for July 8
Bentley Motors has unveiled a refreshed version of its iconic Winged B emblem, marking only the fifth update since the original 1919 design. This modernized badge will debut on a new future-vision concept car on 8 July 2025, signaling a major shift in Bentley’s design direction and brand identity
The Next-Gen Winged B
Sharper, edgier wings, influenced by the aerodynamic form of a peregrine falcon, replacing the softer "owl-inspired" look of prior iterations
Simplified silhouette: The lower feathers have been removed for a cleaner aesthetic suited to digital applications
Enhanced central ‘B’: Now styled like a luxury watch jewel, featuring bevelled glass, a 3D-depth metal surround, and capable of standalone use in digital formats
Created in-house under design-chief Robin Page, based on a concept by Young Nam—reflecting a blend of heritage and innovation
What’s Coming: The Future-Vision Concept Car
The concept car debut on 8 July will wear the new logo, unveiling Bentley’s upcoming electric-era design language
Teasers show a front fascia with illuminated X-shaped patterns and a bold vertical LED strip, hinting at futuristic styling and likely EV architecture
Though not a production preview, the concept is said to draw inspiration from a historic Bentley model, blending nostalgia with bold new direction
Why It Matters for Luxury EV Branding
The new logo launch comes as Bentley transitions to all plug-in hybrid and EV models by 2026, with future applications including a sub‑Bentayga electric SUV planned for 2027
This emblemic refresh represents a brand evolution, aligning Bentley’s identity with evolving customer expectations and digital-first brand use
It positions Bentley at the forefront of heritage-conscious modernization, signaling an ambitious new phase under design leadership of Robin Page
Final Take for CarTopNews
Bentley’s unveiling of a cleaner, sharper Winged B logo and a mystery concept car sets the stage for its next era—a future where luxury meets electrification and heritage meets innovation. The July 8 reveal will likely define Bentley’s stylistic and strategic direction in the electric age.
Ferrari Unveils the Amalfi—A Sharper, More Powerful Successor to the Roma
Ferrari has officially introduced the Amalfi—a front-engine, rear-drive 640 PS twin‑turbo V8 grand tourer that replaces the Roma coupe, continuing the 2+ seating tradition with elevated performance and design
Debut & Pricing
Unveiled at a private event on the Amalfi Coast, Italy, between 1–3 July 2025.
Pricing starts at approximately €240,000 (~₹2.4 Cr), representing a ~20% premium over the outgoing Roma
Performance & Powertrain
Engine: 3.85–3.9ℓ twin‑turbo V8, now producing 640 hp (~631 bhp)—a slight upgrade from the Roma’s 620 PS—but tuned for livelier throttle response via lighter camshafts and refined turbo control
Acceleration: 0–100 km/h in ~3.3 seconds, top speed around 320–320 km/h .
Design & Aerodynamic Enhancements
Updated front fascia with a sleek black bar linking redesigned LED headlights.
Revised rear styling featuring quad taillights connected by subtle dark trim and an active rear spoiler for stability at high speeds (producing up to ~110 kg rear downforce)
Overall form retains Roma’s soft GT curves with transitions to Ferrari’s cleaner, more pared-back design language
Interior & User Experience Upgrades
Cabin overhaul includes a return to physical steering wheel buttons and a titanium start button, replacing the unpopular haptic controls from the Roma
New dual-cockpit layout, passenger screen option, refined HMI interface, and optional Burmester audio system elevate both tech and usability
Under-the-Skin Improvements
Carries forward Ferrari Side Slip Control 6.1, brake-by-wire system, and active aero hardware inherited and refined from the Roma lineage
Final Take for CarTopNews
With the Ferrari Amalfi, the brand blends elegance and performance into an updated GT that feels more powerful, more intelligent, and more usable. By addressing key complaints (like Roma's touch controls), retaining evocative V8 power, and introducing cleaner design, Ferrari reinvigorates its entry-level coupe offering.
Ather Rizta S 3.7 kWh Variant Launched – Longer Range at Lower Price
Ather Energy has expanded its Rizta family scooter lineup by launching the Rizta S with a larger 3.7 kWh battery, priced at ₹1.37‑1.39 Lakh ex-showroom across major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai
What’s New with the Rizta S 3.7 kWh?
Features the larger 3.7 kWh battery, previously exclusive to Z variants, delivering a claimed 159 km IDC range
Strips back some premium features like the colour TFT touchscreen and high-end aesthetic trims, keeping costs in check through pared-down spec while retaining key essentials: 7″ DeepView LCD, auto‑hold, turn‑by‑turn navigation, and fall-safe feature
Powertrain unchanged: mid-drive motor with 5.76 PS and 22 Nm, top speed limited to 80 km/h; 0–40 km/h in approximately 4.7 seconds
Practical Specs
Underseat boot: 34 litres of deep storage—with optional 22 litre frunk, totaling up to 56 litres in storage space
Features include flat wide seat, telescopic front fork, 12″ alloy front wheel, front disc brake, combined braking system, and reverse mode—ideal for daily use
Owners get access to Ather Grid's fast-charging network, now over 3,900+ locations nationwide
Price Positioning & Offers
City ex-showroom rates:
Delhi: ₹1,37,047
Mumbai: ₹1,37,258
Bengaluru: ₹1,37,999
Chennai: ₹1,39,312
Why This Variant Matters for Buyers
Best of both worlds: Extended range at sub‑₹1.4 L price without unnecessary luxuries.
Ideal for practical use: Spacious boot, comfortable seat, and enough tech for city commuting.
More inclusive ownership: Part of Ather’s drive to make EVs affordable yet practical for wider adoption.
Final Take for CarTopNews
The new Ather Rizta S 3.7 kWh variant bridges a smart gap in the range by offering longer endurance and essential comforts at a competitive price. It’s a calculated move to broaden appeal in urban markets while keeping the core product strategy intact.
Kia Carens Clavis EV India Launch & Price Details
Kia India is all set to unveil the Carens Clavis EV on 15 July 2025, priced right around ₹16 lakh ex‑showroom, marking its debut as Kia’s first locally made mass-market EV and one of the first 7‑seater electric MPVs in India
Launch Highlights
Debut date: 15 July 2025
Price estimate: ₹16‑18 lakh ex-showroom, slightly undercutting rivals like BYD eMax7 and Creta Electric
Battery Options & Performance
The Carens Clavis EV is expected to offer two battery packs borrowed from the Hyundai Creta Electric:
42 kWh variant delivering ~135 hp; range ~390 km
51.4 kWh variant with ~171 hp; range up to 470–473 km
Fast charging support and V2L/V2V features expected
Styling & Design Enhancements
Though largely based on the ICE Clavis, the EV will stand out with:
Sealed-off grille, aero-optimized alloy wheels, and subtle EV body accents
Slim LED DRLs and refined bumpers tailored for efficiency
Interior Features & Safety
Specs onboard will closely mirror the ICE Clavis, including:
Dual 12.3″ panoramic displays, front ventilated & powered seats, ambient lighting, Bose audio, and panoramic sunroof
Safety suite: 6 airbags, 360° camera, Level‑2 ADAS (adaptive cruise, AEB, lane assist), TPMS, ESC
Cabin layouts in both 6- and 7-seat configurations with premium comfort enhancements
Segment Significance
India’s only mass-market 7-seater electric MPV, positioning it uniquely in its segment alongside BYD eMax7
Strong value proposition: Three-row seating and long range at a sub‑₹20 lakh price point
Enhances Kia’s EV lineup beyond premium cars like EV6/EV9, for broader consumer reach
Final Take for CarTopNews
With the Carens Clavis EV, Kia is eyeing a transformational leap in India’s EV space—offering ample space, premium tech, advanced ADAS, and compelling pricing. Set to launch officially on 15 July, it could quickly become the electric family MPV benchmark.
MG M9 Luxury EV MPV: India-Spec Launch Details for CarTopNew
MG is set to debut the India-spec MG M9, its first all-electric luxury MPV, in 2025, available via the brand’s premium MG Select dealerships. Bookings have already commenced with a token amount of ₹51,000
Powertrain & Range
Equipped with a 90 kWh NMC lithium battery powering a 245 hp / 350 Nm electric motor driving the front axle
WLTP-certified range: 430 km, while MG cites 548 km based on internal testing
Charging: 160 kW DC charger offers 20–80% recharge in about 90 minutes; 11 kW AC home charging takes ~10 hours
Dimensions & Styling
Overall size: 5,200 mm long × 2,000 mm wide × 1,800 mm tall, with a 3,200 mm wheelbase—larger than the Kia Carnival and Toyota Vellfire
Exterior design** includes sliding** rear doors, split LED DRL and headlamp clusters, 19‑inch alloy wheels, and a chrome-trimmed front fascia
Interior & Comfort Features
Premium cabin with cognac-brown leather and suede, ambient lighting, and dual sunroofs (single-pane front, panoramic rear)
Seating: 7- or 8-seat layouts. Second-row “Presidential” captain chairs offer heating, ventilation, massage, and fold-out ottomans—adjustable with touchscreen controls on headrests
**Cabin kit includes **a 12.3‑inch touchscreen, 7‑inch driver display, wireless charging, JBL sound system, drive modes, and PM 2.5 air filters
Rear passengers get standard USB-A connectors, AC vents, and third-row seating for three
Tech & Safety Suite
Comes with Level 2 ADAS (adaptive cruise, lane‑keep assist), 7 airbags, 360° cameras, ESP, TPMS, electric park brake, and ISOFIX points across variants
While Bharat NCAP rating isn’t available yet, the model is already rated five stars in Euro and ANCAP tests
Pricing & Competition
Expected price: ₹65 to 80 lakh (ex-showroom) for India-spec models, potentially launching around ₹70 lakh
Positioned against luxury MPVs like the Toyota Vellfire, Kia Carnival, and upcoming EVs such as BYD Sealion 7, Volvo EM90 (if India launch materializes)
Why It Matters for CarTopNews Readers
The MG M9 reinvents luxury mobility in India, combining high-capacity EV powertrain with lavish features normally found in premium MPVs. Its slide-door opulence, massaging ottoman seats, and long-range efficiency present compelling value in a crowded segment. MG’s decision to use Select dealerships further reinforces its premium positioning in the market.
Final Take
With class-leading range, a sanctuary-like cabin, and cutting-edge ADAS, the MG M9 is poised to redefine electric family mobility in India. If priced within expectations, it will offer a strong alternative to internal-combustion luxury MPVs—without compromise.
Toyota Innova Hycross Achieves Full 5-Star Rating in Bharat NCAP
Toyota’s flagship MPV, the Innova Hycross, has earned a 5-star rating in the Bharat NCAP crash tests, making it the first MPV and first Toyota model in India to achieve perfect ratings for both adult and child occupant protection
Safety Performance Breakdown
Adult Occupant Protection (AOP):
Scored 30.47 out of 32, with full marks (16/16) in side barrier crash and strong performance in frontal barrier impact (14.47/16).
Most body regions rated “good”, with the chest rated “adequate”—still within acceptable safety thresholds
Child Occupant Protection (COP):
Achieved 45 out of 49 points, including a perfect 24/24 in dynamic testing and 12/12 for CRS fitment.
The overall child protection score highlights excellent crash and restraint system performance
tandard Safety Equipment Onboard
All variants, including the GX 8‑seater (petrol), VX 8‑seater, and ZX 7‑seater (hybrid), share the same safety structure and equipment. These include:
Six airbags (seven on higher trims with curtain airbags)
ISOFIX mounts, ABS with EBD, ESC, hill-start assist, and seatbelt warnings
Top trims feature ADAS (adaptive cruise, blind-spot monitor, pre-collision alert)
Rearview cameras, 360-degree view monitor, and e-call functionality in ZX(O)
Why It Matters for Indian Families
Being the first MPV and first Toyota to earn a full five stars from Bharat NCAP positions the Innova Hycross as the safest large family vehicle sold in India. This enhances its appeal as a family-hauler built not just for comfort and versatility, but exemplary occupant protection.
Final Take
The Innova Hycross’s 5-star Bharat NCAP rating reinforces its reputation as a safe, robust, feature-rich MPV. With top marks in both adult and child safety categories, it sets a new benchmark in the Indian segment—combining hybrid efficiency, cabin space, and now, unmatched safety credentials.
KTM 390 Adventure X Set for Electronics Upgrade, Cruise Control & More
KTM is poised to enhance the 390 Adventure X by adding the same advanced electronics found on the top-spec 390 Adventure. Dealers have halted bookings for the current version as the 390 Adventure X Plus is expected to arrive within weeks
Full Electronics Suite to Arrive
Cruise Control with dedicated switchgear—ideal for highway touring
Lean-sensitive cornering ABS & traction control, backed by an IMU for improved safety in turns
Three ride modes: Off-road, Street, and Rain, each adjusting throttle mapping, ABS, and traction settings
What Remains Carried Over
Powertrain: 399cc LC4c single-cylinder engine with ~46hp and 39Nm torque
Mechanical parts: Long-travel non-adjustable suspension, 19"/17" cast alloy wheels, Apollo Tramplr tyres
Bike retains its touring-oriented setup, with quickshifter available
Pricing & Availability
Current price: ₹2.91 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)
Expected price increase: ₹10,000–15,000 for the Plus version
Although bumped up, it will still be priced lower than the fully loaded 390 Adventure with spoked wheels and adjustable suspension
Final Take for CarTopNews
The upcoming 390 Adventure X Plus bike brings major value enhancements—adding cruise control, cornering safety aids, and ride modes—while preserving its robust touring DNA. With only a modest price hike, it becomes a stronger rival to the top-spec model and competitors like Royal Enfield Himalayan 450.
TVS Introduces 2025 Apache RTR 160 with Dual‑Channel ABS
TVS Motor Company has rolled out its updated 2025 Apache RTR 160, now featuring dual‑channel ABS for both wheels. The new variant is priced at ₹1.34 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) and also complies with the latest OBD‑2B emission norms
Safety & Compliance Upgrade
Dual-channel ABS ensures enhanced braking stability during sudden stops or on slippery surfaces—a first for this segment
OBD‑2B compliance enables advanced diagnostics for emissions and system faults, aligning with new regulatory standards
Mechanical & Tech Specs
Engine: 159.7 cc air-cooled single-cylinder, producing 15.82 PS and 13.85 Nm torque
Paired with a 5-speed gearbox, it maintains the lively character of the RTR line-up.
Braking: Dual-channel ABS with front disc and rear disc—previously non-existent on this model.
Features: Includes ride modes, LCD console with Bluetooth, turn-by-turn navigation, and LED lighting in higher trims
Market Position & Segment Context
Price tag of ₹1.34 lakh positions the RTR 160 slightly above its top-end predecessors—a premium justified by the safety upgrade
TVS continues to offer** the RTR 160 4V**, which already includes dual‑channel ABS and USD front forks, with prices ranging from **₹1.24 lakh **to ₹1.40 lakh across variants
With ABS becoming mandatory for 125 cc+ bikes in 2026, TVS’s proactive update places the RTR 160 ahead in rider safety and regulatory compliance.
Final Take
The 2025 Apache RTR 160 Bike sets a new bar in the 160cc commuter category with its dual‑channel ABS and regulatory readiness. Priced competitively at ₹1.34 lakh, it delivers both performance and peace of mind at a crucial price point. Ideal for buyers seeking a feature-rich, safe, and sporty ride.
