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Vida surpasses 3 lakh sales milestone

Posted on August 4, 2026August 4, 2026 by admin

Vida, Hero MotoCorp’s electric two-wheeler brand, has surpassed the 3 lakh retail sales milestone in the Indian market. As per the latest Vahan numbers, cumulative retail sales from November 2022 till August 1, 2026 are 300,458 units.

Vida sold its first 1 lakh units in around 33 months
Whereas, the 2 lakh to 3 lakh sales milestone took just 5 months
With its strong growth trajectory, Vida could garner over 2-lakh sales in a single year for the first time.

Vida’s BaaS has been a key sales driver

Vida currently has coverage across India with over 900 touchpoints

The surge in demand for the Vida e-scooters is seen in the strong growth, particularly over the past year. While the first 1 lakh units were sold in around 33 months, the run from 1 lakh to 2 lakh units took a little over seven months. Now the last 1 lakh units – from 2 lakh to 3 lakh – have taken just five months, reflecting the surging demand for Vida e-scooters this year. With July (22,883 units) being the new monthly high, beating the previous best of June (21,893 units) this year.

From 4 percent in CY2024 to 11 percent in CY2026 Year-to-date, Hero Vida has reaped strong gains in India’s booming e-2W market. Expect it to achieve total retail sales of around 2.25 lakh units this calendar year.

It’s been a noteworthy run for the world’s largest two-wheeler company in the EV space. Vida now stands at No. 4 in the e-2W market share after TVS Motor Co, Bajaj Auto and Ather Energy and is ahead of Ola Electric and Greaves Electric Mobility.

With strong sales tailwinds emanating from a growing number of ICE buyers transitioning to e-mobility due to the multiple price hikes in petrol in May 2026 as well as the upcoming festive season, it can be expected that Vida will maintain the same strong growth trajectory. This would mean Hero MotoCorp’s annual e-2W sales will cross the 2-lakh units milestone in a single calendar year for the first time in CY2026. Estimate them to be in the region of 2.25 lakh to 2.35 lakh units.

Another strategic sales driver for Vida has been the introduction of the Battery-As-a-Service (BaaS) ownership model which significantly reduces the upfront ownership cost, making electric mobility more affordable and accessible to a wider customer base, and has since been adopted by Ather Energy and TVS Motor among a host of other OEMs.

The company, which opened its first Experience Centre in November 2022, currently has coverage across India with over 900 touchpoints spanning 415 cities and 700-plus dealers. Hero MotoCorp enables Vida users to access charging at over 5,900 locations including the Ather Grid network owned by Ather Energy in which Hero MotoCorp is an early investor (with a 29.48 percent stake at present) and has recently invested an additional Rs 1,000 crore.

Manufacturing capacity expansion is also on the cards for Vida. In May this year, Hero MotoCorp revealed details of its planned capital expenditure of over Rs 1,500 crore in FY2027. Cognisant of the strong growth potential in its e-2W business, the company has outlined a strategic manufacturing expansion for its Vida brand. Having already ramped up capacity by 66 percent from 15,000 units per month to 25,000 units, the company has outlined plans for further expansion by doubling monthly capacity to 50,000 units at its plant in Chittoor in Andhra Pradesh to cater to growing demand.

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What to expect from the BMW 7 Series, i7 facelift ahead of launch

Posted on August 3, 2026August 3, 2026 by admin

BMW’s flagship 7 Series and i7 luxury sedans are set to receive a mid-lifecycle facelift in India with refreshed styling, a comprehensively redesigned cabin, and upgraded petrol, diesel and electric powertrains. This mid-cycle update also introduces interior elements from BMW’s upcoming Neue Klasse models, including the new Panoramic iDrive display and rhomboidal infotainment touchscreen. With bookings now open ahead of their launch, here’s everything you need to know.

1. What will the BMW 7 Series and i7 facelift look like?

Sharper styling with subtle design revisions

The facelift retains the overall silhouette of the current 7 Series but introduces several styling changes. Up front, it gets a redesigned illuminated kidney grille and revised split LED headlamps. The slim upper lighting elements house the daytime running lights, while the main headlamp units sit lower down in the bumper.

Viewed from the side, the 7 Series continues its clean and elegant design. It retains flush-fitting door handles that blend neatly into the bodywork. BMW has also introduced a new alloy-wheel design with the facelift. Another interesting detail is the embossed ‘7’ on the B-pillar, which becomes visible when both doors on the same side are opened.

At the rear, slimmer tail-lamps extend further into the tailgate and feature smoked lenses with chrome detailing, while the bumper has been redesigned with a diffuser-style insert.

2. What’s new in the interior of the BMW 7 Series and i7 facelift?

Redesigned dashboard with BMW’s latest Panoramic iDrive

The biggest changes are inside. The facelift introduces BMW’s new Panoramic iDrive, replacing the conventional digital instrument cluster with a full-width projection display at the base of the windscreen. It works alongside a new 17.9-inch central touchscreen and a 14.6-inch front passenger display, both running the latest BMW Operating System X which supports over-the-air updates, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and features improved voice controls.

BMW has also introduced a new four-spoke steering wheel and a redesigned ambient lighting system that spans the width of the dashboard, extends to the rear speaker grilles and features additional lighting behind the front seats.

As standard, the seats come with electric adjustment, heating, ventilation, massage, lumbar support and heated armrests. The front passenger seat can also slide fully forward to create additional legroom for the passenger seated behind.

Rear-seat entertainment has also been upgraded. The Theatre Screen, optional in international markets, is now a 31.3-inch 8K touchscreen that supports video calls, streaming and gaming. The displays integrated into the rear doors have also been updated, allowing passengers to reposition the Theatre Screen, adjust its viewing angle and control other cabin functions. BMW has also revised the automatic doors with better-positioned open and close buttons.

3. Which powertrain options will the BMW 7 Series and i7 Lci get?

Petrol, diesel and electric powertrains receive updates

The facelifted 7 Series continues with 3.0-litre inline-six petrol and diesel mild-hybrid engines, both paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox and all-wheel drive. The 740i develops 400hp and 580Nm, up by 19hp and 60Nm, while the 740d now makes 313hp and 670Nm, an increase of 27hp and 20Nm over the outgoing model.

The all-electric i7 also receives updates. The i7 xDrive50 replaces the earlier eDrive50 and now gets dual-motor all-wheel drive along with a larger 112.4kWh battery, replacing the earlier 101.7kWh unit. Output rises to 455hp and 660Nm. The range-topping i7 M70 xDrive also benefits from the larger battery, with outputs increasing to 680hp (from 650hp) and up to 1,100Nm (from 1,015Nm).

4. Will BMW launch the plug-in hybrid 7 Series in India

Yet to be confirmed

Internationally, the 7 Series facelift is also available with plug-in hybrid powertrains, including the 750e xDrive and M760e xDrive. It remains to be seen whether BMW will introduce either variant in India, especially since its key rival, the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class, is already available with a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

5. How much will the BMW 7 Series and i7 facelift cost?

Prices expected to increase slightly

The current BMW 7 Series is priced at Rs 1.85 crore (ex-showroom) for both the petrol and diesel variants, while the i7 is priced between Rs 2.10 crore and Rs 2.58 crore. Given the additional technology, revised styling and powertrain upgrades, BMW is expected to increase prices slightly for both models.

6. Which cars will the BMW 7 Series and i7 facelift rival?

The 7 Series ‘LCI’ facelift will continue to rival the Mercedes-Benz S-Class in the flagship luxury sedan segment. Meanwhile, the i7 will compete with electric luxury sedans in the same price bracket.

7. When will the BMW 7 Series and i7 facelift launch in India

Bookings are now open

BMW has started accepting bookings for the 7 Series and i7 facelift through its dealerships across India, with customers also able to register their interest via the BMW India website. The company is yet to announce an official launch date, although the refreshed luxury sedans are expected to arrive in the coming months.

International-spec BMW 7 Series shown for representative purposes only.

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Michelin launches made-in-India Primacy 5 tyre for passenger cars

Posted on August 3, 2026August 3, 2026 by admin

Michelin has launched the Primacy 5 as its first locally manufactured passenger car tyre in India, starting at Rs 10,000. The tyre is available in sizes ranging from 16 to 22 inches. While the French company had been locally producing tyres in India for trucks and buses for over a decade, the Primacy 5 marks the brand’s entry into the locally produced passenger vehicle tyre segment. The Primacy 5 is the first of a range of locally made products, with Pilot Sport 4 SUV, Pilot Sport 5 and LTX Trail ST set to follow in a phased manner.

It’s claimed to have 8-meter shorter wet braking distance than rivals
Improves efficiency in ICE vehicle and range for EVs, says Michelin
Now available at Michelin tyres and service stores and authorised dealers across India

Michelin Primacy 5 highlights

Michelin says the Primacy 5 offers 8-meters shorter wet braking distance when new compared to rivals, and up to 9 metres shorter when worn. It also delivers up to 4 metres shorter dry braking distance when new, compared to other tyres. The other highlight, claims Michelin, is that it improves fuel efficiency in ICE vehicles (6.5 percent improvement over its predecessor, the Primacy 4ST) as well range in case of EVs. It also offers 8 percent longer lifespan compared to the Primacy 4ST, while also offering better ride comfort over other tyres, says Michelin.

It will be available in sizes ranging from 16-inches to 22-inches, meaning it will be compatible with the bulk of the mass offerings as well as premium luxury vehicles.

Speaking during the launch event in Chennai, Mr. Shantanu Deshpande, Managing Director, Michelin India, said, “The launch of the made-in-India Michelin Primacy 5 marks a significant milestone for Michelin in the country and reflects our commitment to delivering products that are tailored to the needs of Indian consumers. Manufactured in India for Indian drivers, the Primacy 5 has been developed and tested on the vehicles most driven in the country, benchmarked against leading competitors, and validated by an independent testing agency.”

Alongside the launch of the made-in-India tyre, the brand also said it intends to expand its presence beyond just Tier I and major Tier II cities. In the last one year, the brand has been expanding its distribution footprint to over 800 points of sale.

The French tyre maker sees India as the only country with true potential for exponential growth over the next decade and plans to capitalise on the growing popularity of mid-size SUVs and premium vehicles.

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Top 10 cars with front parking sensors under Rs 20 lakh

Posted on August 3, 2026August 3, 2026 by admin

While pretty basic in their operation, parking sensors alleviate the strain involved when space is at a premium. Once the dominion of premium models, front parking sensors have now found their way into more affordable ones. We have listed the top 10 cars that get parking sensors at the front as well, and that too at an ex-showroom price of under Rs 20 lakh.

10. Kia Carens Clavis EV

Prices start at Rs 18.04 lakh

All variants of the 7-seat Kia Carens Clavis EV get front parking sensors. However, we are only considering the HTK+ and HTX E, since the rest are priced above Rs 20 lakh. These trims are offered with a 42kWh battery pack with an MIDC-claimed range of 404km. The single electric motor of the Clavis EV generates 133hp, while charging the battery from 10-80 percent takes 39 minutes when plugged into a 100kWh DC fast-charger.

Variants	Prices (Rs, lakh)
HTK+	18.04
HTX E	20.00

9. Maruti Suzuki Victoris

Prices start at Rs 15.39 lakh

The Maruti Suzuki Victoris gets front parking sensors, but only on the ZXI Plus and the top-spec ZXI Plus (O), priced at Rs 19.99 lakh. These are available with manual and automatic transmissions, petrol and strong-hybrid options, and in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations. The naturally aspirated (NA) 1.5-litre engine of the Victoris manages 103hp, whereas the strong-hybrid’s powertrain achieves a combined output of 116hp.

Variant range	Price range (Rs, lakh)
ZXI Plus – ZXI Plus (O)	15.39 – 19.99

*Dual-tone options cost around Rs 14,500 more

8. Kia Carens Clavis

Prices start at Rs 15.28 lakh

Front parking sensors are on the equipment list for the HTK+, HTK+ (O), HTX, GTX, and HTX (O) trims. The latter costs Rs 19.96 lakh, with higher trims breaching our stipulated Rs 20 lakh price cut-off. Like its EV sibling, the Carens Clavis is also a 7-seater. Kia is offering three 1.5-litre engines: a 115hp petrol, a 160hp turbo-petrol with direct injection, and a 116hp turbo-diesel. Transmissions include a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed torque converter automatic (AT) and a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic (DCT).

Variant range	Price range (Rs, lakh)
HTK+ – HTX (O)	15.28 – 19.96

7. Hyundai Venue

Prices start at Rs 14.65 lakh

The second-gen Hyundai Venue adds front parking sensors to its already lengthy list of features. However, it is only the range-topping Venue HX10 and Venue N Line N10 variants of Hyundai’s compact SUV that get this nifty addition. The top-spec trim has a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel engine with 116hp, and costs Rs 15.65 lakh.

The HX10 also gets a 1.0-litre direct injection turbo-petrol with 120hp, which is shared with the N Line’s N10 trim. The diesel mill’s gearbox options are a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque converter automatic, whilst the petrol engine gets the manual and 7-speed DCT options.

Variants	Prices (Rs, lakh)
HX10 Turbo-Petrol (DCT)	14.65
HX10 Diesel (AT)	15.65
N Line N10 (DCT)	15.49

*Dual-tone options cost an additional Rs 18,000

6. Kia Seltos

Prices start at Rs 14.52 lakh

The entry-level HTE, HTE (O) and HTK trims of the Kia Seltos come equipped only with rear parking sensors. To get them on the front as well, you’ll need to step up to the HTK (O) at the bare minimum. Keeping our sub-20-lakh budget, the most expensive Seltos trims with front parking sensors are the GTX (A) and X-Line. Depending on the trim level, the Seltos can be had with one of three 1.5-litre engines and one of five gearboxes. For an in-depth look at those, click here.

Variant range	Price range (Rs, lakh)
HTK (O) – X-Line	14.52 – 20.00

5. Kia Sonet

Prices start at Rs 13.76 lakh

Only the top-two trims of the Kia Sonet get front parking sensors, and these are the GTX+ and X-Line. These trims are only available with the 120hp, 1.0-litre direct injection turbo-petrol engine and 116hp, 1.5-litre turbo-diesel mill. Transmission choices with these trims are a 7-speed DCT and 6-speed AT, respectively. For more information on the Kia Sonet, check out our detailed review.

Variant range	Price range (Rs, lakh)
GTX+ – X-Line	13.76 – 14.37

4. Hyundai Verna

Prices start at Rs 13.20 lakh

Buyers of the HX6, HX6+, HX8 and HX10 trims of the Hyundai Verna will benefit from having front parking sensors. The midsize sedan’s range-topping HX10 trim is priced at Rs 18.26 lakh. There are two 1.5-litre petrol mills; the naturally aspirated unit produces 115hp, with the direct injection turbo-petrol motor making 160hp. While both engines get a 6-speed manual as standard, the NA can be had with an IVT (Intelligent Variable Transmission). However, only the turbo-petrol variants get the 7-speed DCT.

Variant range	Price range (Rs, lakh)
HX6 – HX10	13.20 – 18.26

3. Mahindra XUV 3XO

Prices start at Rs 12.20 lakh

Only the AX7 and AX7 Luxury variants of the Mahindra XUV 3XO get front parking sensors, with the latter costing Rs 15.04 lakh. The sub-4-metre SUV gets a 1.2-litre MPFI (multi-point fuel injection) and 1.2-litre direct injection turbo-petrol engines producing 111hp and 131hp. A 1.5-litre turbo-diesel engine with 117hp is also available, mated to a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed AMT (automated manual transmission). The petrol versions get a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque converter automatic.

Variants	Prices (Rs, lakh)
AX7	12.20
AX7 Luxury	15.04

2. Tata Nexon

Prices start at Rs 11.40 lakh

The most affordable Tata Nexon variant with front parking sensors is the Creative + PS. Meanwhile, the most expensive Fearless + A PS costs Rs 13.70 lakh. Tata’s popular compact SUV is available with petrol, diesel and CNG options.

The petrol and CNG versions use a 1.2-litre turbocharged engine with up to 120hp, while the 1.5-litre diesel mill produces 115hp. The transmission choices encompass a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed AMT and a 7-speed DCT.

Variant range	Price range (Rs, lakh)
Creative + PS – Fearless + A PS	11.40 – 13.70

*Dark Edition costs around Rs 18,300 on top of the Dual Tone option

1. Renault Triber

Prices start at Rs 8.05 lakh

The most affordable car with front parking sensors is the Renault Triber. Only the top-end Emotion trim of this three-row MPV gets this feature, and the range tops out at Rs 8.53 lakh. The Triber is powered by a 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine that produces 72hp and 96Nm. While there is only one engine option, buyers can choose between a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed AMT.

Variant	Price (Rs, lakh)
Emotion	8.05-8.53

*Dual-tone options cost an additional Rs 21,000

All prices are ex-showroom.

Also read

Top 5 most affordable cars with hill hold feature

Top 10 most affordable ADAS cars in India

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TVS posts record monthly EV sales as electric 2W segment hits new peak

Posted on August 3, 2026August 3, 2026 by admin

India’s electric two-wheeler segment crossed the 2 lakh monthly sales mark for the first time, with retail figures of 2,04,266 units in July 2026 – beating the previous best of 1,99,411 units set in March this year. Cumulative sales for the first seven months of 2026 now stand at 11.7 lakh units, up 56 percent year-on-year, while the first four months of FY27 have delivered 7,29,573 units – a 73 percent jump over the same period last year.

Electric two-wheeler sales cross 2 lakh units in a month for the first time
TVS posts best-ever monthly sales of 55,477 units; market share rises to 27 percent
Ola Electric is the only top-10 OEM to register a year-on-year decline

July 2026 electric two-wheeler sales: OEM breakdown

TVS Motor Co: 55,477 units

TVS Motor Company delivered a record 55,477 electric scooters in July – a 135 percent year-on-year increase and the brand’s highest-ever monthly figure, surpassing the previous best of 51,632 units in March. The result gives TVS a 27 percent market share, up from 22 percent a year ago. Cumulative FY27 sales of 1,86,034 units are already 52 percent of its full-year FY26 tally, putting it on course to cross 5.5 lakh annual sales for the first time. The iQube remains TVS’s highest-selling model, with the Orbiter seeing growing demand alongside it.

Bajaj Auto: 45,592 units

Bajaj Auto sold 45,592 Chetak scooters in July, marking a 122 percent year-on-year increase, and giving it a 22 percent market share, up from 19 percent a year ago. This was Bajaj’s second-highest monthly figure after March’s 47,751 units. Cumulative FY27 sales of 1,63,236 units are 54 percent of its full-year FY26 total. Bajaj Auto’s Joint MD Rakesh Sharma noted that the newly launched Chetak 2501 now accounts for approximately 12 percent of the Chetak portfolio.

Ather Energy: 30,323 units

Ather Energy delivered 30,323 units in July, up 70 percent year-on-year, consolidating its position as the third-largest electric two-wheeler maker in India. Cumulative FY27 sales of 1,18,983 units are already 47 percent of its FY26 total.

In July, Ather also updated the battery chemistry of the 450 and Rizta ranges, with the Rizta now available in both LFP and NMC configurations. The brand will launch its first EL platform-based scooter – expected to be priced between Rs 1 lakh and Rs 1.25 lakh – at Ather Community Day on August 29.

Vida: 22,887 units

Vida posted its best-ever monthly sales of 22,887 units in July – a 111 percent year-on-year increase – surpassing its previous highs of 22,201 units in March and 21,893 units in June. Cumulative FY27 sales of 79,940 units are already 53 percent of its full-year FY26 total. The brand expanded its lineup in July with the VX2 Plus 4.4kWh at Rs 1.43 lakh and the new VX2 Go FB – a fixed-battery variant with a 3.1kWh pack priced at Rs 1.13 lakh.

Ola Electric: 14,105 units

Ola Electric was the only top-10 OEM to register a year-on-year decline in July, selling 14,105 units – down 24 percent from 18,449 units in July 2025. After three months of sequential growth through April, May and June, July also saw a 13 percent month-on-month drop. Ola’s market share has fallen sharply to 7 percent from 17 percent a year ago, when it ranked third overall.

Other notable performers

Greaves Electric Mobility delivered 10,125 units – up 137 percent year-on-year. River Mobility hit its highest-ever monthly sales with 5,951 units of the Indie, up 254 percent year-on-year, following the rollout of its 50,000th unit from its Hoskote plant. Bgauss Auto sold 5,518 units, up 213 percent year-on-year. Simple Energy sold 1,648 units, with the brand’s upcoming Simple Arrive family scooter set to launch on September 2. Lectrix Vehicles rounded out the top 10 with 1,397 units.

The top 10 OEMs combined accounted for 94 percent of all electric two-wheeler sales in July, with the remaining 6 percent approximately 180 other manufacturers.

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Maruti Grand Vitara AT vs Honda Elevate CVT real world mileage comparison

Posted on August 3, 2026August 3, 2026 by admin

The Maruti Grand Vitara was launched in September 2022, while the Honda Elevate arrived a year later. Both compete in the mid-size SUV segment and offer naturally aspirated petrol engines with automatic gearbox options – a torque converter in the Grand Vitara and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) in the Elevate. But how do the two SUVs compare in terms of real-world fuel efficiency? Let’s find out.

Maruti Grand Vitara AT vs Honda Elevate CVT: Specs

	Maruti Grand Vitara	Honda Elevate
Engine	4 cyl, naturally aspirated petrol	4 cyl, naturally aspirated petrol
Displacement (cc)	1462	1498
Power (hp)	103	121
Torque (Nm)	139	145
Transmission	6AT	CVT
Drive layout	Front wheel	Front wheel
Fuel tank (L)	45	40

Both SUVs use naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engines, but the Honda Elevate makes more power and torque outputs. Its 1,498cc engine produces 121hp and 145Nm, giving it an advantage of 18hp and 6Nm over the Grand Vitara’s 1,462cc block, which makes 103hp and 139Nm. The Elevate is paired with a CVT automatic, while the Grand Vitara uses a 6-speed torque converter automatic. Notably, the Grand Vitara also gets a 12V integrated starter generator (assists the engine during acceleration and recharges the 6Ah Li-ion battery) and offers the choice of all-wheel drive layout with this engine-and-gearbox combination, whereas, the Elevate is front-wheel drive only. Maruti claws back some ground with a larger 45-litre fuel tank, which is 5 litres bigger than the Elevate’s 40-litre tank.

Maruti Grand Vitara AT vs Honda Elevate CVT: Real-world fuel efficiency

	Maruti Grand Vitara	Honda Elevate
Tested city mileage (kpl)	11.60	8.60
Tested highway mileage (kpl)	15.30	13.10
Tested average mileage (kpl)	13.45	10.85
Tested range (km)	605	434

The Maruti Grand Vitara AT is more fuel efficient than the Honda Elevate CVT in both city and highway driving. In our tests, the Grand Vitara returned 11.60kpl in the city, which is 3kpl higher than the Elevate’s 8.60kpl. On the highway, the gap is smaller at 2.2kpl, with the Grand Vitara delivering 15.30kpl, compared to the Elevate’s 13.10kpl.

Maruti Grand Vitara AT vs Honda Elevate CVT Real-world fuel efficiency

As a result, the Grand Vitara posted a tested average of 13.45kpl, while the Elevate managed 10.85kpl. Combined with its larger 45-litre fuel tank, the Grand Vitara also achieved a range of 605km, which is 171km more than the Elevate’s 434km.

Maruti Grand Vitara AT vs Honda Elevate CVT: Price

	Maruti Grand Vitara	Honda Elevate
Price (Rs lakh)	13.45-18.58	13.43-16.78

The base automatic variants of both petrol SUVs are priced very close to each other. However, the price gap increases to Rs 1.8 lakh when you compare the top variants. One reason behind this is that the top-spec Alpha and Alpha (O) variants of the Grand Vitara come with an AWD system. Whereas, the front-wheel-drive Alpha and Alpha (O) AT variants are priced at Rs 16.55 lakh and Rs 16.74 lakh, respectively.

In conclusion, the Maruti Grand Vitara is the clear winner here, outperforming the Honda Elevate by a good margin. Buyers with a higher budget can also consider the Grand Vitara strong hybrid, which is even more frugal. In our real-world tests, it returned 22.08kpl.

Autocar India’s fuel efficiency testing

Before our real-world fuel efficiency tests, we fill our test cars’ tanks to the brim and maintain tyre pressures based on the manufacturer’s recommendations. These cars are driven in fixed city and highway loops in and around Navi Mumbai, and we maintain certain average speeds. Throughout the tests, there is only one person in each car, running the air conditioner and other electricals, such as the audio system, indicators and wipers, when required, just like a regular user would. Periodic driver swaps further neutralise variations in driver patterns. At the end of each cycle, we calculate efficiency by filling the tanks to full again.

Ex-showroom prices mentioned above are as of August 3, 2026.

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2026 Rainforest Challenge India: Ujjal Namshum, Chethan Chengappa defend title

Posted on August 3, 2026August 3, 2026 by admin

RFC India 2026 winners Ujjal Namshum, Chethan Chengappa

Ujjal Namshum and co-driver Chethan Chengappa have won this year’s Rainforest Challenge India (RFC India) in the headlining 4×4 Extreme category. This marks their second consecutive win in the off-road event. As the top 4×4 Extreme driver, Namshum has also won a free automatic entry in the RFC Global Series finale, scheduled to be held in Malaysia later this year.

The 4×4 Modified and 4×4 Stock categories also returned this year following their debut in 2025. Sarjerao Kawade and co-driver Rushikesh Patil won in the 4×4 Modified category, while Athul Thomas and co-driver Binil Babu took top honours in the 4×4 Stock category.

62 teams participated in RFC India this year
Sarjerao Kawade, Rushikesh Patil win in 4×4 Modified category
Athul Thomas, Binil Babu win in 4×4 Stock category

2026 Rainforest Challenge India winners

4×4 Extreme winners: Ujjal Namshum, Chethan Chengappa

Held in Goa, Rainforest Challenge India is one of the toughest off-road competitions in the country. The event is held across a week and tests competitors on driving and vehicle recovery skills, physical and mental resilience, as well as team work under extreme off-road conditions. 62 teams participated in the 12th edition this year – 25 in 4×4 Extreme, 16 in 4×4 Modified and 21 in 4×4 Stock.

After a tough start, reigning champions Namshum and Chengappa (racing for team Manabhum Off-roader’s Club Arunachal) took the lead on Day 4. They scored a total of 2,253 out of 2,600 points to retain their title. “Defending our title is hard to put into words; there is struggle, frustration, even anger along the way, and then this joy at the end that makes it all worth it. Winning is the icing on the cake, but it’s really the process, the six days of racing, that we live for,” said Namshum.

“We set ourselves a personal target this year: a perfect day, a clean sweep of stage wins. We achieved that on Day 4 of the competition and that moment was as precious for us as this win.”
Early leaders Kranthi Kumar Vengala and co-driver Rajeev Lal (Team Hyderabad) had to settle for second place overall with 2,052 points. Viddesh Madgaonkar and Sahil Sadekar (Team 4×4 Addictz Goa) scored 1,962 points to complete the podium in third place.

4×4 Modified winners: Sarjerao Kawade, Rushikesh Patil

Kawade and Patil returned to the 4×4 Modified category with a rebuilt vehicle. Racing for team Sahyadri Offroaders Pune, the duo maintained a consistent lead throughout the event to take class victory with 1,633 out of 2,000 points.

“Winning the Modified category at RFC India 2026 feels incredible, especially after the setbacks I faced this year. Last year, I didn’t fully understand how to strategise and give my best, but this year I prepared properly and came in with a clear plan. Even after a difficult first day with a breakdown, I knew I had to give 100% on the next track. The competition this year was extremely tough, with several strong participants pushing hard right until the end. To come out on top after all of that means everything to me,” said an elated Kawade.

Shehinsha TP and Muhammed Nabeel (team KL10 Offroad Club) clinched second place with 1,572 points, followed by Gagan Karumbaiah and Bopanna Maleyanda (team Robusta) with 1,569 points.

4×4 Stock winners: Athul Thomas. Binil Babu

The 4×4 Stock category is reserved for near-factory spec vehicles. Team Killerbull’s Thomas and co-driver Babu overcame an early setback to top this category.

“Honestly, this win almost didn’t happen. I hadn’t even planned to be at RFC India this year; I was set to compete in an event in Coimbatore instead, and it was only after that got cancelled that I turned to RFC India. We made a mistake on the very first stage, and that put us on the back foot for the rest of the competition. But I told myself not to look at what anyone else was doing; just trust ourselves and focus entirely on the track in front of us. That’s what got us through,” Thomas shared. “Winning this category means everything, not just to me, but to my team, my mechanics and everyone back home in Kerala who’s been behind me.”

RFC India debutant Naku Hage Chada and co-driver Loda Punyo finished second in the category, scoring 1,173 points. Sabu Xavier and Halvin Appanna (team Jeepers of Bangalore) took the third spot with 1,144 points.

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3 reasons to buy the Tata Curvv EV, 2 reasons not to

Posted on August 3, 2026August 3, 2026 by admin

Tata launched the Curvv EV in 2024 as a distinct-looking coupe-SUV in the heavily contested midsize class. In the manufacturer’s lineup, it sits between the smaller Nexon EV and larger Sierra EV, and along with the different looks, it also offers a feature-loaded cabin, spacious cabin, a large battery pack and a powerful electric motor. If you’re interested in the Curvv EV, here are the reasons to consider it, and some reasons to think otherwise.

Reasons to buy

Offers good performance without compromising on range

The Tata Curvv EV is offered with a 55kWh battery pack and produces 167hp and 215Nm from its front-axle-mounted (FWD) electric motor. It gets three drive modes: Eco, City and Sport, which alter the throttle response based on the chosen mode. The Curvv EV is the most energetic in Sport mode, offering full torque reserve at the tap of the accelerator pedal, unlike the other two modes where torque output is restricted to around 70 percent. Tata claims a 0-100kph time of 8.6 seconds for the Curvv, but in our real-world tests, it completed the 0-100kph sprint in 9.25 seconds in Sport mode. The fact that the Tata Curvv EV did a 0-100kph run in 11.6 seconds with the most docile Eco mode shows its quick acceleration.

However, quick acceleration does not come at the expense of efficiency, as in our real-world tests, we found that the Curvv EV’s 55kWh variant offered an economy of 6.64km/kWh, translating to a total range of 365km, which allows for intracity travel.

Offers a lot of comfort and convenience features

Like other Tata EV offerings, the Curvv EV is also loaded with features to its gills. It gets a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display, the latter of which can be configured to show navigation. However, when using turn indicators, it shows the blind spot monitor feed instead of the navigation. This can be avoided if the blind spot monitor display is configured to display on the touchscreen. Both screens are crisp and have menus, but it is easy to get used to them. The infotainment system is offered with Tata’s arcade.ev app suite, which includes streaming services and games that can be used when the Curvv EV is charging.

Other features include a panoramic sunroof, configurable ambient lighting, an electric tailgate with gesture control, a 9-speaker JBL sound system, a wireless phone charger with cooling vents, powered and ventilated front seats, and Level-2 advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

It is a value-for-money offering in its class

With prices ranging from Rs 16.99 lakh to Rs 19.19 lakh, the Tata Curvv EV is on par with the petrol/diesel midsize SUVs, and undercuts rivals like the Hyundai Creta Electric, Mahindra BE 6, and Tata Sierra. At this price, it is offered with concept-car-like looks, a spacious interior, a feature-loaded cabin, a large battery and a potent electric motor, making it one of the most value-for-money offerings in its class.

Reasons to skip

Taller passengers may feel uncomfortable on the rear seats

The coupe-SUV design of the Curvv EV eats up the headroom on the rear seats, which will be uncomfortable for taller passengers, especially if they are taller than 6 feet. Such passengers will also find the under-thigh support underwhelming, as they have to sit in a knees-up position due to the battery cells placed under the floor. However, legroom is in plenty and will be appreciated by passengers of all sizes.

It suffers from some ergonomic issues

The Curvv EV shares much of its dashboard design with the Nexon EV, and hence, does not get proper cupholders for the front passengers. The cupholders are placed inside the glovebox, which does not make them usable, especially on the move. The phone charging ports are placed ahead of the drive selector knob and are hard to reach. The storage space under the front centre armrest is also small. However, the fit and finish inside the cabin is decent for the Curvv EV’s price.

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Porsche introduces Assured Buyback Programme in India

Posted on August 3, 2026August 3, 2026 by admin

Porsche India has introduced a new assured buyback programme. Customers can opt for the programme at the time of purchase, with the buyback service being offered through what Porsche describes as “a strategic association with a preferred company.” The maximum coverage for this programme is 36 months from the date of sale of the car.

Pre-determined future value fixed at the time of purchase
Up to 70 percent buyback value after 3 years

Porsche ‘Assured Buyback Value Product’ programme

According to Porsche India, its new ‘Assured Buyback Value Product’ programme is based on a pre-determined future value of the vehicle at the time of purchase. The scheme will cover the difference between this pre-determined value of the car and its actual resale value at the time of sale.

Porsche Macan Electric rear quarter — Porsche Macan Electric.

Models that are eligible for this scheme include the Cayenne, Macan Electric and Taycan. Under this guaranteed buyback programme, Porsche says that customers can get back up to 70 percent of the vehicle’s original purchase value at the end of 36 months (or 3 years) of ownership from the date of purchase.

Assured buyback programmes in India

Other automakers that offer similar buyback schemes include Jeep and Volkswagen. Under its ‘Confidence 7’ ownership programme, Jeep claims that it will return up to 60 percent of the original ex-showroom price.

The recently launched Volkswagen Taigun facelift also arrived with an assured buyback option for customers who placed a booking on or before May 31, 2026. Volkswagen’s programme guaranteed up to 75 percent of the car’s ex-showroom price, with the validity lasting up to 3 years or 30,000km.

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MG announces prices for Cyberster, M9 Couture Editions

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MG announces prices for Cyberster, M9 Couture Editions

Posted on August 3, 2026August 3, 2026 by admin

mg cyberster couture edition next to gaurav gupta

MG Motor India has revealed that the new Couture Editions of the Cyberster and M9 are priced at Rs 87.49 lakh and Rs 84.94 lakh, respectively. Only 50 units of each special edition will be available, all of which sport a bespoke exterior finish designed in collaboration with fashion designer Gaurav Gupta. Bookings for the Cyberster and M9 Couture Editions commenced on July 20, and they will be available solely through the MG Select premium retail network.

MG Cyberster, M9 Couture Editions: What’s different?

The Cyberster and M9 Couture Editions feature white as the base exterior colour, upon which contrasting streaks – inspired by Gupta’s Serpent Infinity motif – flow across the bodywork. The Cyberster Couture Edition’s bonnet is adorned with a pair of Serpent Infinity badges, and its tonneau cover bears embroidery of the logo too. It also has orange-coloured streaks and a gold finish for the front and rear MG emblems.

Meanwhile, the M9 Couture Edition sports charcoal-coloured streaks, a Serpent Infinity badge on the front bumper, and two brooches surrounding the front MG emblem that represent a mythical winged panther. The interior also gets a ‘Couture Edition’ wordmark on the dashboard. Otherwise, there are no changes to the designs of the Cyberster and M9.

MG M9, Cyberster Couture Editions: Battery and range

No changes have been made to what’s under the skin of the Cyberster and M9 too. The Cyberster features a 77kWh, dual-motor AWD powertrain that outputs 510hp and 725Nm, claiming a 0-100kph time of 3.2 seconds and an MIDC range of 580km. The M9 gets a 90kWh, single-motor FWD setup that generates 245hp and 350Nm, and is good for an MIDC range of 548km.

All prices are ex-showroom, India.