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MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV vs Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid

While both models here are hybrids and have 7 seats across three rows, they offer different hybrid technologies. With the ADAPT platform-based JSW MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV, India has its first-ever mass-market plug-in hybrid vehicle making its entry in the hugely popular SUV segment. On the other hand, the TNGA-C platform-based Toyota Innova Hycross is an MPV and offers a strong-hybrid powertrain. Here’s how they stack up in their fully loaded trims.

Explore full specs, features and a price breakdown in our Hector Tomahawk PHEV and Innova Hycross Hybrid comparison.

MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV Essence vs Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid ZX (O): Dimensions

The Innova Hycross is larger and offers a slightly bigger boot with all seats in place

MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV Essence vs Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid ZX (O) dimensions
	MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV	Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid
Length (mm)	4,745	4,755
Width (mm)	1,850	1,850
Height (mm)	1,770	1,790
Wheelbase (mm)	2,810	2,850
Boot space (litres)	192	239
Wheel size (inches)	18	18

The Innova Hycross Hybrid is 10mm longer and 20mm taller than the Hector Tomahawk PHEV. The Toyota MPV also has a wheelbase that’s longer by 40mm, while both cars have identical width figures and sport 18-inch alloy wheels in their top-spec trims. The Innova Hycross Hybrid’s luggage capacity with the third row in place is greater by 47 litres. One of the factors limiting the outright cargo volume of the Hector Tomahawk PHEV is its more space-consuming plug-in hybrid tech.

MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV Essence vs Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid ZX (O): Powertrain

The plug-in hybrid powertrain of the MG SUV is more fuel-efficient and offers more power

MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV Essence vs Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid ZX (O) powertrain options
	MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV	Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid
Engine	1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol	2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol
Battery size	20.5kWh	1.6kWh
Electric motor type	Permanent magnet synchronous motor	Permanent magnet synchronous motor
Drive configuration	FWD	FWD
Total system output	198hp, 230Nm	184hp, 188Nm
Transmission	DHT	eCVT
0-100kph	9.0 seconds	10.69 seconds*
Claimed mileage	50kpl	22.16kpl
Fuel tank	52 litres	52 litres
AC charging	7.5 hrs at 3.3kW (10-100%)	–
DC fast charging	35 mins at 25kW (30-80%)	–

*Autocar India-tested 0-100kph time.

The strong hybrid powertrain of the Toyota Innova Hycross offers a couple of drive modes – including pure-electric and engine + electric. However, its compact nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery means that the EV mode of the Innova Hycross Hybrid is understandably more limited than the MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV’s, requiring the 2.0-litre petrol engine to step in more often.

The claimed mileage figure of the Innova Hycross Hybrid is 27.84kpl worse than the MG plug-in hybrid SUV, and despite the same fuel tank size, the former’s combined range tops out at around 800km, as per our real-world test of the Toyota MPV. Meanwhile, the plug-in hybrid system of the MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV offers more flexibility and comes with four main drive modes. The larger 20.5kWh battery pack and 1.5-litre engine allow for a combined claimed range of over 1,100km.

The Hector Tomahawk PHEV not only offers a claimed pure-electric range of over 115km, but it can also have the engine charging the battery pack while the electric motor drives the front wheels. This is a drive mode that isn’t offered with the Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid. To extract the highest possible efficiency from its hybrid system, the Hector Tomahawk PHEV needs to be plugged in to an AC or a DC charger in order to fully top up its battery pack.

Depending on the battery’s SoC, both cars can rely entirely on their petrol engine to drive the wheels. Compared to the Innova Hycross Hybrid’s e-CVT (electronically controlled continuously variable transmission), the Hector Tomahawk PHEV gets a DHT (Dedicated Hybrid Transmission) with an e-clutch. The combined output of the MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV is 14hp and 42Nm more than what the Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid offers.

MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV Essence vs Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid ZX (O): Exterior features

Different body styles aside, both cars are similarly equipped on the outside

MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV Essence vs Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid ZX (O) exterior features
	MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV	Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid
Auto LED headlamps	Yes	Yes
LED DRLs	Yes	Yes
Backlit logo	Yes	No
Sequential turn signals	Yes	Yes
Front fog lamps	No	Yes (LED)
Rear fog lamps	Yes (LED)	No
Welcome lights	No	Yes
Powered ORVMs	Yes (with auto-fold function)	Yes (with auto-fold function)
Body cladding	Yes	No
Roof rails	Yes	No
Rear spoiler	Yes	Yes
Powered tailgate	Yes	Yes
Radio antenna	Windscreen-integrated	Sharkfin
Colours	Mono-tone and dual-tone	Mono-tone

The MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV is offered in two dual-tone colour options and six mono-tone shades, including a couple of bolder choices. The Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid is restricted to six simpler-looking colours. The SUV body style aside, the Hector Tomahawk PHEV also sports a backlit ‘MG’ logo up front plus prominent roof rails and body cladding.

Where the Innova Hycross Hybrid gets the traditional sharkfin radio antenna, the Hector Tomahawk PHEV has its antenna embedded in the windscreen. The Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid gets front LED fog lamps, whilst the MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV features rear LED fog lamps. While the top-spec trims of both cars get automatic LED headlamps and sequential turn indicators, it’s only the Toyota that offers ‘welcome’ lights.

MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV Essence vs Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid ZX (O): Interior features

The Hector Tomahawk PHEV offers even more modern on-board tech than the Hycross

MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV Essence vs Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid ZX (O) interior features
	MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV	Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid
Infotainment screen	15.6-inch (with swipe gestures)	10.1-inch
Digital driver’s display	8.8-inch	7.0-inch MID
Panoramic sunroof	Yes (dual-pane)	Yes (dual-pane)
Steering adjustment	Tilt & telescopic	Tilt & telescopic
Driver’s seat adjustment	6-way powered	8-way powered
Memory powered	Yes (with ‘retreat’ function)	Yes
Co-driver’s seat adjustment	4-way powered	4-way manual
Sliding & reclining second row	Yes	Yes (powered ottoman seats)
Split rear seats	Yes (second & third rows)	Yes (second & third rows)
Ventilated front seats	Yes	Yes
Leatherette upholstery	Yes	Yes
Rear sunblinds	Yes	Yes
Rear armrest	Yes (with cupholders)	Yes (individual armrests)
Wireless charger	Yes (50W)	No
Automatic climate control	Yes (dual-zone)	Yes (single-zone)
Ambient lighting	Yes (256 colours)	Yes (single-colour)
Audio system	10-speaker Infinity	9-speaker JBL
Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto	Yes	Yes (CarPlay only)
USB ports	Yes (5 ports)	Yes (4 ports)
Connected car tech	Yes	Yes
Voice assistant	Yes (AI-powered & multilingual)	Yes
OTA updates	Yes	No
Multi-app support	Yes	No

The infotainment features of the top-spec MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV are more comprehensive. It comes with a larger touchscreen that supports swipe-gesture functionalities, along with an AI-powered voice assistant with six languages supported. MG’s tie-up with Jio means that there are plenty of apps offered – including gaming, streaming and more. The Hector Tomahawk PHEV also offers OTA software updates, wireless connectivity for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a built-in 50-watt wireless charger.

The MG SUV’s convenience features further include a more comprehensive 256-colour ambient lighting system, a fully digital instrument panel, dual-zone AC, a powered front passenger seat, a ‘retreat’ function for the driver’s seat when the door is opened, armrest-integrated cupholders for the second row, and an additional USB port over the top-spec Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid.

However, the latter offers individual & powered captain chairs for the second row with a fold-away ottoman function. The 7-seat capability of the Innova Hycross comes by way of a three-seat third bench. The minimalist interior of the Hector Tomahawk PHEV looks modern but the increased reliance on the touchscreen can come in the way of everyday usability, especially while on the move. The Innova Hycross Hybrid’s interior, meanwhile, offers plenty of physical switchgear that are much easier to use.

MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV Essence vs Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid ZX (O): Safety features

Both cars are relatively well-equipped on the safety front

MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV Essence vs Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid ZX (O) safety features
	MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV	Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid
Airbags	6	6
ABS with EBD	Yes	Yes
Electronic stability program	Yes	Yes
Traction control system	Yes	No
Hill-hold assist	Yes	Yes
TPMS	Yes	Yes
Parking sensors	Yes (front & rear)	Yes (front & rear)
360-degree camera	Yes	Yes
Electronic parking brake	Yes (with auto-hold function)	Yes (with auto-hold function)
Auto-dimming IRVM	Yes	Yes
Rain-sensing wipers	Yes	No
ISOFIX	Yes	Yes
Rear wiper and defogger	Yes	Yes
All-wheel disc brakes	Yes	Yes
ADAS	Yes	Yes

The fully loaded trims of both these cars offer all the basic passive and active safety aids that buyers at this price bracket expect. While both come with ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), it’s the MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV that packs in more features within its ADAS suite. Its adaptive cruise control aid integrates Bend Cruise Assistance (BCA), which slows down the vehicle when approaching corners. There’s also Traffic Jam Assist, which works alongside other active lane-keeping measures.

MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV Essence vs Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid ZX (O): Other features

The MG SUV adds a few nice-to-have features over the equivalent Innova Hycross

MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV Essence vs Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid ZX (O) other features
	MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV	Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid
Drive modes	Yes (4)	Yes (3)
Paddle shifters	No	Yes
V2V and V2L	Yes	No

The MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV offers Eco, Normal, Sports and Custom drive modes, whereas the Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid gets Eco, Normal and Power – one less than the MG. The latter also lacks Vehicle to Vehicle (V2V) and Vehicle to Load (V2L) functionalities that are available with the Hector Tomahawk PHEV.

Conclusion

MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV Essence vs Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid ZX (O) prices
	MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV	Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid
Prices (In Rs, lakh)	27.79	31.84

While the prices of the MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV are currently introductory, the delta between the two cars here is steep. The top-spec Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid ZX (O) is priced Rs 4.05 lakh more than fully loaded Essence trim of the MG plug-in hybrid SUV. Its affordability factor notwithstanding, the Hector Tomahawk PHEV Essence trim gets a more comprehensive & punchier hybrid powertrain that offers better mileage, along with a better-finished and more premium-looking interior. Moreover, if you prefer an SUV body style, the MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV would be worth a serious look.

Also read

MG Hector Tomahawk EV vs PHEV: Differences explained

Maruti Brezza ZXi+ vs Tata Nexon Fearless+ PS: Which should you buy?

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Yamaha YZF-R2 vs KTM RC 200: Price and specifications compared

Posted on August 28, 2026August 28, 2026 by admin

An image showing front right three quarter of the Yamaha YZF-R2 and KTM RC 200

Yamaha has just launched the YZF-R2, making their supersport line-up become plural once again. Although they sound closer to each other, the established YZF-R15 and its new big brother are further apart than you might think. So how does Yamaha’s new entry on the 200cc class compare to the tried and tested KTM RC 200? Let’s find out.

All prices mentioned here are ex-showroom, Delhi.

Yamaha YZF-R2 vs KTM RC 200: Engine and output

The Yamaha makes marginally more power and torque

	Yamaha YZF-R2	KTM RC 200
Engine	204cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled	199.5cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled
Power	26.5hp at 10,000rpm	25hp at 10,000rpm
Torque	19.1Nm at 8,000rpm	19.2Nm at 8,000rpm
Transmission	6-speed	6-speed
Power-to-weight ratio	176.76hp/tonne	156.25hp/tonne

From the get go, the Yamaha pulls ahead by making 1.5hp more power than the KTM with a 0.1Nm less torque; both bikes deliver peak power and torque at the exact same range in the revs. However, the R2’s biggest advantage is in its 149kg kerb weight, made evident in its noticeably higher power-to-weight ratio. More on that in the next section.

Yamaha YZF-R2 vs KTM RC 200: Dimensions and weight

Yamaha continues to increase the gap

	Yamaha YZF-R2	KTM RC 200
Fuel tank capacity	12 litres	13.7 litres
Ground clearance	170mm	156mm
Kerb weight	149kg (base) 150kg (mid and top)	160kg
Seat height	810mm	835mm
Wheelbase	1,340mm	NA

As we said, Yamaha’s biggest advantage comes with its 149kg, a whopping 11kg less than the KTM. That gap only increases with other dimensions, well, except for the fuel tank capacity. The R2 has a smaller fuel tank, but the KTM’s 1.7-litre larger fuel tank only justifies about 1.25kg of its added heft. In return, the R2 gives you more usable seat height and ground clearance.

Yamaha YZF-R2 vs KTM RC 200: Tyres, brakes, and suspension

KTM has (almost) all the advantage

	Yamaha YZF-R2	KTM RC 200
Tyres (F/R)	100/80-17/140/70R17	110/70R17/150/60R17
Brakes (F/R)	282mm front disc/220mm rear disc	320mm front disc/230mm rear disc
Suspension (F/R)	37mm USD fork/linked monoshock	43mm USD fork/monoshock

In the handling package, the KTM pulls its trump cards. It gets bigger tyres, brakes, as well as a larger front fork. Both brands use the tried and tested radially mounted caliper at the front, with a floating caliper handling the rear stopping duties. The R2 does offer preload adjustability on both ends on the top M variant. On the RC, that’s only available at the rear.

Yamaha YZF-R2 vs KTM RC 200: Features

Yamaha offers a host of extra features

Being the newer motorcycle, it’s not a surprise that the R2 has more features but Yamaha, almost uncharacteristically, have pulled out all the stops on this front. Do note that to get the full suite, you’d have to spring for the R2 M which is currently Rs 21,000 more expensive than the RC 200. If you do, you get three ride modes (Rain, Street, Sport), a 5-inch TFT instrument cluster, assist and slipper clutch, traction control, a bi-directional quickshifter, keyless system, adjustable footpegs, and adjustable levers. The first four are standard on all three variants, with the middle variant offering the quick shifter, and the M giving you the rest. There are other cosmetic differences between the three variants as well.

On the other side, the KTM gives you a 5-inch TFT cluster, the ability to turn off rear ABS, and… that’s it. To get even close to the R2’s feature set, you’d have to look at the bigger KTM Supersport, the RC 390. Both motorcycles have the ability to connect your smartphone to unlock functionalities like call alerts, music control, and turn-by-turn navigation.

Yamaha YZF-R2 vs KTM RC 200: Price

Yamaha offers more value than the KTM

Yamaha YZF-R2

KTM RC 200

Price

Rs 2.30 lakh (base)

Rs 2.39 lakh (middle)

Rs 2.53 lakh (top)

Rs 2.32 lakh

Yamaha has priced the R2’s base variant lower than the RC 200’s one and only variant. Even then, the R2 is ahead in terms of the features and the overall value. The KTM’s case only gets weaker from there. It’s worth mentioning here that the KTM RC series have not been updated to the third generation yet, which is perhaps why the feature set hasn’t caught up. Last we checked, the next major refresh for the RC series is at least a year away.

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2030 तक EV सेक्टर में आएंगी 5 करोड़ नौकरियां, 20 लाख करोड़ रुपये तक पहुंचेगा मार्केट! नितिन गडकरी का बड़ा दावा

Posted on August 27, 2026August 27, 2026 by admin

केंद्रीय सड़क परिवहन और राजमार्ग मंत्री नितिन गडकरी ने बुधवार को कहा कि भारत का इलेक्ट्रिक व्हीकल (EV) बाजार 2030 तक 20 लाख करोड़ रुपये तक पहुंच सकता है। इसके साथ ही इस सेक्टर में 5 करोड़ नौकरियां पैदा होने की उम्मीद है।

PTI की रिपोर्ट के अनुसार, CII-ITC सेंटर ऑफ एक्सीलेंस फॉर सस्टेनेबल डेवलपमेंट की ओर से आयोजित एक समिट को संबोधित करते हुए गडकरी ने कहा कि भारत में अभी 57 लाख इलेक्ट्रिक वाहन रजिस्टर्ड हैं और ऑटोमोबाइल बाजार में इलेक्ट्रिक वाहनों की हिस्सेदारी करीब 7 प्रतिशत है।

उन्होंने कहा, “2030 तक भारत का इलेक्ट्रिक व्हीकल (EV) मार्केट 20 लाख करोड़ रुपये का हो जाएगा। इससे 2030 तक पांच करोड़ नौकरियां भी पैदा होंगी।”

इस दौरान गडकरी ने भारत की दो सबसे बड़ी टू-व्हीलर बनाने वाली कंपनियों, बजाज ऑटो और हीरो मोटोकॉर्प की एक्सपोर्ट क्षमता का भी जिक्र किया और कहा कि वे अपने बनाए गए वाहनों में से 50 प्रतिशत से ज्यादा का एक्सपोर्ट करती हैं।

भारत को और ज्यादा इलेक्ट्रिक बसों की जरूरत

गडकरी ने कहा कि भारत में हर साल एक लाख इलेक्ट्रिक बसों की मांग है, लेकिन देश के मैन्युफैक्चरर अभी साल में सिर्फ 50,000-60,000 EV बसें ही बनाते हैं।

उन्होंने कहा कि सरकार का लक्ष्य अगले पांच सालों में भारत के ऑटोमोबाइल इंडस्ट्री को दुनिया में सबसे बड़ा बनाना है। उन्होंने यह भी कहा कि देश के पास ट्रेंड मैनपावर और कॉम्पिटिटिव व्हीकल मैन्युफैक्चरिंग क्षमताएं हैं।

गडकरी ने आगे कहा, “अगले पांच सालों में हमारा लक्ष्य भारत के ऑटोमोबाइल इंडस्ट्री को दुनिया में नंबर 1 बनाना है… यह मुश्किल है, लेकिन नामुमकिन नहीं।”

उन्होंने कहा कि भारत के ऑटोमोबाइल सेक्टर का आकार काफी बढ़ गया है। उन्होंने बताया कि जब उन्होंने ट्रांसपोर्ट मिनिस्टर का पद संभाला था, तब इस सेक्टर की वैल्यू 14 लाख करोड़ रुपये थी, जो अब बढ़कर 22 लाख करोड़ रुपये हो गई है।

केंद्रीय मंत्री ने कहा कि अभी US के ऑटोमोबाइल सेक्टर की वैल्यू 78 लाख करोड़ रुपये है, इसके बाद चीन 47 लाख करोड़ रुपये के साथ दूसरे और भारत 23 लाख करोड़ रुपये के साथ तीसरे स्थान पर है।

फॉसिल फ्यूल के इंपोर्ट और लॉजिस्टिक्स लागत को कम करने पर जोर

गडकरी ने कहा कि भारत फॉसिल फ्यूल के इंपोर्ट पर 22 लाख करोड़ रुपये खर्च करता है, जिससे प्रदूषण भी बढ़ता है।

उन्होंने कहा, “हम अच्छे हाईवे बना रहे हैं… अच्छे रास्ते और उनके विकल्प तैयार कर रहे हैं, और बायो-फ्यूल ही भविष्य है।”

लॉजिस्टिक्स लागत के बारे में गडकरी ने कहा कि सरकार का लक्ष्य इसे घटाकर 8% तक लाना है। उनका तर्क है कि लॉजिस्टिक्स लागत कम होने से ग्लोबल मार्केट में भारत की कॉम्पिटिटिवनेस (प्रतिस्पर्धा क्षमता) बेहतर होगी।

गडकरी ने कहा कि IIT चेन्नई, IIT कानपुर और IIM बैंगलोर की हालिया रिपोर्ट से पता चला है कि एक्सप्रेसवे और इकोनॉमिक कॉरिडोर बनने से भारत की लॉजिस्टिक्स लागत 16% से घटकर 10% हो गई है।

उन्होंने कहा, “सरकार का लक्ष्य लॉजिस्टिक्स लागत को घटाकर 8% करना है, जिससे भारत को ज्यादा प्रतिस्पर्धी बनने में मदद मिलेगी।”

यह भी पढ़ें: Honda ADV160 Flex-Fuel स्कूटर और Rebel 300 बाइक लॉन्च, ₹5,000 में बुकिंग शुरू, अक्टूबर से मिलेगी डिलीवरी

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2027 Kawasaki Versys 650 launched at Rs 8.63 lakh

Posted on August 27, 2026August 27, 2026 by admin

Kawasaki has launched the MY27 Versys 650 at Rs 8.63 lakh (ex-showroom), with deliveries likely to have already begun, as the brand had said they would start by the end of August.

Available in a single Candy Lime Green colour option
649cc parallel-twin makes 67hp and 61Nm

2027 Kawasaki Versys 650 details

Mechanically unchanged from the MY26 model

The update over the outgoing MY26 model is limited to a new Candy Lime Green colour option (the only colour available on the MY27), with no changes to the mechanical package, feature set or pricing.

The MY27 carries over the full package of last year’s bike, with power coming from a 649cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin producing 67hp at 8,500rpm and 61Nm at 7,000rpm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox and an assist-and-slipper clutch.

The chassis uses a tubular diamond frame with a 41mm telescopic front fork offering 150mm of travel and a rear monoshock with remote preload adjustability and 145mm of travel. Features include an adjustable windscreen, 4.3-inch TFT display with smartphone connectivity, traction control and full LED lighting.

With its big 21-litre fuel tank brimmed, the bike weighs 220kg. The seat height is set at a fairly tall 845mm, and the Versys 650 has a healthy 170mm of ground clearance, which should help it tackle most Indian road surfaces. Priced at Rs 8.63 lakh, the Kawasaki Versys 650 sits in a niche of its own in the Indian market with its closest competition being the Honda NX500 (Rs 7.44 lakh).

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Govt cracks down on E20 contamination: Petrol sales stopped at 2,573 pumps

Posted on August 27, 2026August 27, 2026 by admin

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has launched a massive quality-control campaign across India’s retail fuel network and, as of August 25, 2026, stopped petrol sales at 2,573 non-compliant outlets, according to highly placed ministry sources. Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL) leads with 1,257 halted pumps, followed by Hindustan Petroleum (HPCL) at 915 and Bharat Petroleum (BPCL) at 401.

The trigger was a letter from the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) to the ministry on July 28, leaked soon after, flagging alarmingly high levels of chloride contamination in E20 fuel samples tested across the country. SIAM withdrew the letter within days, saying the figures “needed further verification”, but the damage was done. A subsequent Reuters investigation into carmakers’ internal testing data kept the contamination question firmly in the public eye and has forced the government to react.

To restore consumer confidence and tackle contaminants and water in the supply chain, the government has mandated water-ingress testing of underground tanks 8 to 12 times a day, a rigorous regime already underway at 88,995 dealerships. A sweeping audit prioritising older retail outlets has covered 84,687 fuel stations; field teams are checking tank integrity during rainfall, and automation systems with monitoring probes are active at 85,649 outlets, with malfunctioning units being repaired on priority.

Oil-marketing companies (OMCs) have conducted 7,296 sulphur tests and 1,079 chloride tests on ethanol-carrying tankers, along with 151 chloride tests on their own storage tanks.

The intensity of the crackdown reflects a government under pressure to protect the integrity of its green-energy transition. The rollout of E20 (petrol blended with 20 percent ethanol) was accelerated ahead of its original schedule. Since April 1, E20 has been the only petrol available at Indian pumps, leaving motorists with no option of buying the earlier E10 blend.

Automakers’ extensive fuel-testing drive

The move to ensure that the prescribed standards are met at the forecourts is a direct response to growing opposition from motorists and anxiety among the country’s leading vehicle manufacturers.

For motorists, the transition to E20 has brought tangible financial losses arising from lower fuel efficiency and potential mechanical risks. In a widely publicised dispute, a consumer court in Raipur recently directed Maruti Suzuki to replace a Grand Vitara over an E20-related engine complaint, underlining the legal and warranty vulnerabilities facing carmakers. Concerns over mileage loss, accelerated component wear and the compatibility of pre-2023 vehicles have simmered for months.

Behind closed doors, the anxiety ran deeper. While brands like Toyota, Maruti Suzuki and Hero MotoCorp publicly backed the government’s green mandate, a Reuters review of leaked internal communications revealed that Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra had privately flagged severe contamination in E20 petrol. Over the course of a year, the three carmakers quietly conducted the most extensive fuel-testing drive since the national rollout, collecting and analysing over 250 samples from petrol pumps across 21 states and Union territories.

Leaked report rings alarm bells

The industry findings, compiled by SIAM and reviewed by Reuters, painted a starkly different picture from official compliance narratives. Against the government’s permissible chloride limit of 3 parts per million (ppm) or 3mg/kg, automaker testing found alarming levels across 18 states: Rajasthan recorded 6 to 570ppm — 190 times the limit; Delhi-NCR ranged from 1.4 to 420ppm and Madhya Pradesh from 4.1 to 550ppm. Karnataka and Kerala, by contrast, stayed well within the safe zone at 1 to 2.2ppm.

Water content spiked to 13,000ppm in Andhra Pradesh and 12,500ppm in Uttar Pradesh, which is more than four times the official permissible limit of 3,000ppm.

In modern engines, these deviations can be damaging. Organic chloride is highly corrosive, and modern precision fuel injectors are engineered to tolerate just 1-3ppm to align with international standards. In a leaked July email, a senior Mahindra executive warned that organic chloride was the root cause of rapid vehicle failures, capable of destroying fuel systems and engines in as little as 200km. Mahindra has since described interpretations drawn from the email as baseless, calling the industry data limited and preliminary.

Skoda Auto India brand director Ashish Gupta, in a recent interaction with Autocar Professional, acknowledged a genuine issue with EPC (Electronic Power Control) and fuel pump failures in certain parts of the country, particularly in Punjab. He added that while fuel-sample testing has not shown a definitive chemical difference, engineers suspect high chloride or high sulphur levels, which can clog the fuel-pump filters.

The regulatory gap

To be fair, BIS standards currently lack a formally mandated statutory threshold for inorganic chlorides in finished ethanol-blended petrol (like E20). However, the petroleum ministry and OMCs enforce internal procurement guidelines, capping the limit at 3ppm for ethanol manufacturers. Setting BIS standards that make chloride limits mandatory is urgently needed, as the main culprit for vehicle damage is not E20 petrol but the chloride levels in it.

With inputs from Shahkar Abidi

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JSW MG bets on PHEVs to challenge diesel models in executive SUV market

Posted on August 27, 2026August 27, 2026 by admin

JSW MG Motor is betting on plug-in hybrid technology to attract buyers of executive diesel SUVs, with the Hector Tomahawk PHEV forming the centrepiece of its strategy. The company believes the powertrain can offer the lower running costs of electric driving without the range concerns associated with a pure EV. The seven-seat Tomahawk PHEV offers more than 115km of electric-only driving and a combined range of over 1,100km.

MG claims Rs 3,000-4,000 running cost per 1,000km, versus Rs 10,000-12,000 for diesel
JSW MG targets the executive SUV market that sells 50,000 units a month
Company aims for 5,000-6,000 Tomahawk sales per month

JSW MG eyes executive diesel SUV market

JSW MG says that the executive SUV market in India accounts for around 50,000 units a month, with diesel SUVs contributing about 40,000 units and EVs around 10,000. The diesel segment includes models such as the Mahindra XUV 7XO, Tata Safari and Tata Harrier, while the EV segment includes the Mahindra XEV 9S, Tata Harrier EV and Kia Carens Clavis EV.

“If you look at the diesel C-sized market, that is about 40,000 units. The C-sized EV market is about 10,000. So, the total potential is 50,000,” says Anurag Mehrotra, Managing Director, JSW MG Motor India.

The Hector Tomahawk PHEV is priced Rs 1.5 lakh-2 lakh higher than the top diesel automatic variants of the Mahindra XUV 7XO, Tata Safari and Tata Harrier. JSW MG expects to justify this premium through lower operating costs and the overall product package.

The Tomahawk PHEV has no direct mass-market PHEV rival in India and will instead target diesel SUV buyers. According to surveys cited by Mehrotra, owners in this segment typically cover 18,000-20,000km a year, with many combining daily commutes with regular outstation travel.

“They want the fuel efficiency of a diesel because they are travelling longer distances,” says Mehrotra. “For them, there has not been a new-energy choice. The plug-in hybrid takes away the range issue completely, but still gives you the unit economics of an EV.”

Vinay Raina, Chief Commercial Officer, JSW MG Motor India, says many of these customers choose diesel because it suits their usage rather than because of a fixed preference for the fuel. “The Indian consumer is willing to experiment,” he says.

MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV running costs

JSW MG estimates that covering 1,000km in the PHEV could cost Rs 3,000-4,000, compared with Rs 10,000-12,000 in a diesel SUV. This calculation assumes regular charging and substantial use of the electric mode. “The plug-in hybrid will be close to a third of the cost of running a diesel,” Mehrotra says.

The company says the PHEV can return around 22kpl when used mainly as a hybrid, while its claimed 30-50kpl figure assumes regular charging and that most daily travel is completed using electric power. These figures include kilometres covered on electricity and therefore cannot be directly compared with the fuel economy of a diesel SUV. Charging costs also need to be included when calculating the overall running cost.

This also means the claimed savings will depend on how the vehicle is used. Owners who regularly charge at home and complete much of their daily driving on battery power should use less petrol, while those who rarely charge will rely more on the engine and lose much on the projected savings.

JSW MG targets 5,000-6,000 Tomahawks a month

JSW MG is targeting monthly sales of 5,000-6,000 units for the Tomahawk range, which includes the EV and PHEV. The company has not specified how that volume will be split between the two powertrains. At the targeted volume, JSW MG estimates the range would account for around 10-12 percent of the 50,000-unit monthly executive SUV opportunity it has identified.

The Tomahawk EV and PHEV are based on the company’s ADAPT architecture, which is designed to support multiple powertrain types. JSW MG currently has achieved around 45 percent localization in the Tomahawk and plans to increase this to approximately 70 percent by next year, with the investment already approved by its board.

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TVS Jupiter 110 gets dual-tone colours with Rs 89,825 Spectral variant

Posted on August 27, 2026August 27, 2026 by admin

Image showing both new spectral colours, Spectral Blue and Spectral Copper

TVS has launched a new range-topping variant for its bestselling Jupiter 110 scooter in two colours, Spectral Blue and Spectral Copper. The snazzy new colour treatment is complemented by colour co-ordinated inner panels, new seat colour, and partial chrome mirrors. The new top variant is already listed on the website.

Spectral is now the most expensive Jupiter 110 variant
Gets integrated backrest and sequential indicators
Remains mechanically identical to the Disc SXC and Special variants

TVS Jupiter 110 now has 7 variants

Continues with the 113.3cc engine, 33L underseat storage area

The spectral range is the new top variant for the brand’s most popular ICE scooter. Besides the new colours, the Spectral variant on the Jupiter 110 offers two additional features, an integrated backrest and sequential indicators, of which the latter is a segment-first feature. Besides that, the scooter continues with a 113.3cc engine with 8hp of power and 9.8Nm of torque. Also unchanged are its segment-leading features like 33 litres of underseat storage, an apron-mounted fuel tank, an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) which enables silent start and fuel-saving start/stop tech, and SmartXonnect connected technology.

TVS has priced the dual tone spectral range at Rs 89,825, a Rs 3,000 increase over the SmartXonnect Disc variant and a Rs 525 increase over the Special Edition variant. TVS says the scooter will be available soon at dealerships across the country.

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5 things to know before buying the Honda Rebel 300

Posted on August 27, 2026August 27, 2026 by admin

The Honda Rebel 300 is the first model in the Rebel family to be manufactured locally and acts as the brand’s most accessible cruiser motorcycle here. Built around a bobber-style design with a teardrop fuel tank, round LED headlamp and short exhaust, it is sold exclusively through Honda BigWing dealerships. Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about it.

What is the price of the Honda Rebel 300?

The Honda Rebel 300 is available in two variants. The Standard variant is priced at Rs 2.22 lakh and the E-Clutch variant at Rs 2.62 lakh – a Rs 40,000 premium for the automated clutch system. At Rs 2.22 lakh, the Standard variant undercuts the Royal Enfield Goan Classic 350 (Rs 2.25-2.28 lakh, ex-showroom, Chennai), one of the few other bobber-styled motorcycles currently on sale in India.

What engine does the Honda Rebel 300 use?

The Honda Rebel 300 is powered by a 286cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine producing 30hp and 27.5Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed gearbox. This is the same engine that powered the CB300R previously sold in our market.

What features does the Honda Rebel 300 have?

Both variants of the Rebel 300 get a circular TFT instrument display with Honda RoadSync connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation, full LED lighting and dual-channel ABS. The E-Clutch variant additionally allows the rider to configure the clutch system via the TFT display.

What is the Honda Rebel 300 E-Clutch and how does it work?

Honda’s E-Clutch is an electronically automated clutch system that uses actuators to operate the clutch automatically, allowing the rider to change gears without using the clutch lever. It does not make the Rebel 300 a fully automatic motorcycle, as the rider still selects gears manually using the gear lever. However, the system handles clutch engagement and disengagement on its own.

Importantly, the clutch lever is retained and can be used manually whenever the rider chooses. The system is designed to reduce rider fatigue in stop-and-go traffic while making the bike more accessible for those who find operating a clutch lever demanding.

What is the seat height and weight of the Honda Rebel 300?

The Honda Rebel 300 has a seat height of 690mm, making it one of the lowest motorcycles currently on sale in our market. This uld make it exceptionally accessible for a wide range of riders. The upright handlebar and forward-set footpegs complement the low t to create a relaxed, unhurried riding position. Kerb weight is 172kg and fuel tank capacity is 11 litres.

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MG Hector Tomahawk EV vs PHEV: Differences explained

Posted on August 26, 2026August 26, 2026 by admin

JSW MG Motor has launched the Hector Tomahawk with two electrified powertrains: a fully electric version and a plug-in hybrid. Although the two share the same basic dimensions and cabin design, there are several differences in their exterior detailing, equipment, seating configuration, battery and charging systems. Here’s how the two versions compare.

MG Hector Tomahawk EV vs PHEV: Price and variants

Variant	Seating	EV price (ex-showroom)	EV BaaS*	PHEV price (ex-showroom)	PHEV BaaS*
Excite	7-seat	Rs 19.49 lakh	Rs 13.99 lakh	–	–
Exclusive	7-seat	Rs 21.99 lakh	Rs 15.99 lakh	Rs 25.70 lakh	Rs 21.79 lakh
Essence	7-seat	Rs 23.49 lakh	Rs 17.49 lakh	Rs 27.80 lakh	Rs 23.89 lakh
Essence	5-seat	Rs 22.99 lakh	Rs 16.99 lakh	–	–

*For the EV, the battery rental is Rs 4.90 per km, while for the PHEV it is Rs 3.20 per km.

The Hector Tomahawk EV is priced from Rs 19.49 lakh to Rs 23.49 lakh (ex-showroom). It is available in Excite, Exclusive and Essence trims in the seven-seat configuration, while the five-seat version is offered only in the Essence trim at Rs 22.99 lakh.

The PHEV is positioned higher in the range, with prices starting at Rs 25.70 lakh for the Exclusive seven-seater and going up to Rs 27.80 lakh for the Essence seven-seater. Unlike the EV, however, a 5-seat configuration is not available here.

MG Hector Tomahawk EV vs PHEV: Exterior

Both versions measure 4,745mm in length, 1,850mm in width and 1,770mm in height, with a 2,810mm wheelbase. They share the rectangular LED projector headlamps with LED DRLs and an illuminated MG logo, but the front-end treatment is completely different.

The PHEV versions gets a conventional three-dimensional grille with chrome inserts, gloss-black elements below the headlamps and a chunky bull bar-like silver trim piece on the lower bumper. Meanwhile, the EV gets a closed-off fascia, lending it a more minimalistic look than the PHEV version. The PHEV also gets red brake callipers on the higher-spec version.

The two versions use different wheel designs for the 18-inch dual-tone alloys. There is also a difference in the dual-tone treatment. The EV gets a black roof, while the PHEV gets a white roof. Both, however, get roof rails, a powered tailgate and wraparound LED tail-lamps.

MG Hector Tomahawk EV vs PHEV: Interior

The two versions have the same basic cabin layout, but differ in colour. The EV gets a beige interior, while the PHEV gets a brown interior. Both get a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, 256-color ambient lighting, wireless charging and an 8.8-inch digital driver’s display. The top versions of both get the 15.6-inch infotainment screen. Both versions also use a stalk-type drive selector, positioned behind the steering wheel.

The more significant difference is the seating configuration. The EV is available as a five- or seven-seater, while the PHEV is offered only as a seven-seater. The five-seat EV has 610 litres of boot space, expanding to 1,053 litres with the second row folded. The seven-seat EV offers 192 litres with all three rows in use and 528 litres with the third row folded. The PHEV, being seven-seat only, has 604 litres of boot space in the Exclusive and 579 litres in the Essence with the third row folded.

The EV also has a slightly different seating position because of its battery packaging, with occupants sitting in a more knees-up position than in the PHEV.

MG Hector Tomahawk EV vs PHEV: Powertrain

The Hector Tomahawk EV uses a 204hp electric motor that produces 310Nm. It is powered by a 69.2kWh battery and has a claimed MIDC range of 517km. The EV supports up to 90kW DC fast charging, with MG claiming a 30-80 percent charge time of around 35 minutes.

The PHEV combines a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, electric motor and 20.5kWh battery, with a dedicated hybrid transmission with an e-clutch. The powertrain produces a combined 198hp and 230Nm. MG claims an electric-only range of over 115km and around 40kpl combined fuel efficiency. A full tank of fuel and a fully charged battery can take it more than 1100km.

The PHEV supports up to 25kW DC charging and is claimed to take around 35 minutes to charge from 30-80 percent. It can also be charged using a 3.3kW AC charger, which takes around 7.5 hours for a 10-100 percent charge.

The key difference is that the EV is powered solely by its battery and electric motor, while the PHEV combines a smaller battery and electric motor with a petrol engine, allowing it to operate on electric power or use the engine when required.

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MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV launched at Rs 25.69 lakh

Posted on August 26, 2026August 26, 2026 by admin

JSW MG Motor India has launched the Hector Tomahawk PHEV at a price of Rs 25.69 lakh (ex-showroom) alongside the all-electric version of this brand-new SUV. This becomes the first mainstream plug-in hybrid SUV in our market. It is powered by a 1.5-litre, naturally aspirated petrol engine paired to a 20.5kWh battery for a claimed fuel economy of around 40kpl and an electric-only range of over 115km. MG claims that the Hector Tomahawk can deliver over 1100km of range with a full tank of fuel and a fully charged battery. Bookings for the Tomahawk PHEV have commenced today and deliveries will begin in November this year.

Unlike the Hector Tomahawk EV that’s available in both 5- and 7-seater configurations, the PHEV is only available in a 7-seater configuration. MG is also offering the Tomahawk PHEV under the BaaS program, where prices start from Rs 21.79 lakh and Rs 3.20 is charged additionally on the battery rental.