MG Hector Tomahawk EV vs PHEV: Differences explained

MG Hector Tomahawk EV vs PHEV: Differences explained
MG Hector Tomahawk EV vs PHEV

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

VariantSeatingEV price (ex-showroom)EV BaaS*PHEV price (ex-showroom)PHEV BaaS*
Excite7-seatRs 19.49 lakhRs 13.99 lakh
Exclusive7-seatRs 21.99 lakhRs 15.99 lakhRs 25.70 lakhRs 21.79 lakh
Essence7-seatRs 23.49 lakhRs 17.49 lakhRs 27.80 lakhRs 23.89 lakh
Essence5-seatRs 22.99 lakhRs 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

EV
PHEV
 

 

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.

EV
PHEV
 

 

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

EV
PHEV
 

 

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.

Mercedes-Benz reveals long-wheelbase GLE L in China

Mercedes-Benz reveals long-wheelbase GLE L in China
Mercedes-Benz reveals long-wheelbase GLE L in China

Mercedes-Benz has revealed the long-wheelbase version of the GLE SUV, called the GLE L, at the 2026 Chengdu Auto Show in China. Currently built in China, the Mercedes-Benz GLE L has a 120mm longer wheelbase than the standard-wheelbase model and is offered with two turbo-petrol engine options. 

  1. Engine options include 2.0L 4-cyl turbo-petrol and 3.0L 6-cyl turbo-petrol mills
  2. Gets a boss mode feature that tilts the front passenger seat by 10.91 degrees
  3. Also features new rear seat entertainment screens and a China-specific AI assistant

Mercedes-Benz GLE L: All you need to know

Gets a new boss mode and rear entertainment screens 

What’s new is a boss mode feature, which tilts the front passenger seat by 10.91 degrees for enhanced rear-seat comfort. Mercedes states that this feature is derived from the more opulent Maybach GLS. The GLE L also gets new rear seat entertainment screens and an indigenous AI assistant.

Offers two turbo-petrol engines, which are the same as the standard-wheelbase model

Mercedes-Benz will offer the GLE L in two trim levels: 350 L 4Matic and 450 L 4Matic, with the same turbo-petrol engine options as the standard-wheelbase model. The ‘350’ has a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine producing 258hp and 400Nm, while the ‘450’ has a 3.0-litre inline-six turbo-petrol engine that produces 381hp and 560Nm. Both the engines are available with a 45V mild-hybrid assist and are mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission that sends power to all four wheels (AWD). 

Notably, the standard-wheelbase GLE is also offered in a ‘580’ version with a 537hp, 4-litre twin-turbo V8, a plug-in-hybrid ‘450e’, and two diesel versions: 350d and 450d. 

Everything else is similar to the standard-wheelbase model

Save for the additional wheelbase and redesigned alloy wheels, there is no difference in how the Mercedes-Benz GLE LWB looks compared to the standard-wheelbase model. It continues with a gloss-black grille with a chrome surround and a plethora of tristar elements, and the same dual-barrel headlights with tristar-shaped LED DRLs. The rear design is also identical, with wraparound taillights sporting triangular LED elements, joined by a black trim and dual exhaust tips.

The interior design of the China-spec GLE L is identical to the standard-wheelbase SUV. It features three 12.3-inch screens on the dashboard, one each for the instrumentation, infotainment and front passenger entertainment, and a 3-spoke steering wheel with touch-enabled buttons and physical rocker and roller toggles.

There is no word from Mercedes-Benz about the long-wheelbase GLE’s India launch. The manufacturer offers the E-Class and the V-Class in their respective long-wheelbase avatars in the country. Moreover, there is a growing interest in long-wheelbase cars in the luxury segment, which could make the GLE L an interesting proposition in India. Interestingly, the GLE’s prime rival, the BMW X5, is slated to launch in India in 2027 in a long-wheelbase avatar. 

MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV exterior and interior image gallery

MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV exterior and interior image gallery
MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV Front Quarter

Alongside the fully electric model, JSW MG Motor has also launched the plug-in hybrid version of the Hector Tomahawk. Called the MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV, it too is based on the company’s ADAPT platform. The plug-in hybrid option pairs a 1.5-litre Atkinson-cycle petrol engine with a single electric motor and a 20.5kWh battery pack. The brand claims a maximum range of over 1,100km (on a full tank and charge), while the quoted 0-100kph time of the MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV is 9 seconds.

Also see

MG Hector Tomahawk EV exterior and interior image gallery

Genesis GV90 exterior and interior design image gallery

Which variant of the MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV should you buy?

Which variant of the MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV should you buy?
Which variant of the MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV should you buy?

MG has launched the Hector Tomahawk PHEV as the first mass-market plug-in-hybrid (PHEV) car in India, priced from Rs 25.70 lakh (ex-showroom). It is offered in two trims: Exclusive and Essence, and like other MG cars, it is equipped with a plethora of modern-day features. If you are interested in the MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV, which variant should you choose? Let us find out.  

MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV powertrain options and prices

Both Hector Tomahawk PHEV variants get the same 1.5L engine and 20.5kWh battery

The MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV is offered with a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 102hp and 125Nm. It gets a 20.5kWh battery pack powering an electric motor producing 201hp and 237Nm. The battery pack has an indicative claimed range of 115km, and combined with the petrol engine, it could have a total range of around 1,100km. Both the Exclusive and Essence variants are offered with the same powertrain. 

MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV variant-wise BaaS, non-BaaS prices

 

Hector Tomahawk PHEV Exclusive

Hector Tomahawk PHEV Essence

Non-BaaS price

Rs 25.70 lakh

Rs 27.80 lakh 

BaaS price

Rs 21.79 lakh + Rs 3.2 per km*

Rs 23.89 lakh + Rs 3.2 per km*

*Rs 3.2 per km is charged as the battery rental fee for the battery-as-a-service (BaaS) scheme.

MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV variant-wise features

Exclusive

Price: Rs 25.70 lakh (or Rs 21.79 lakh + Rs 3.2 per km with BaaS)

  • Automatic LED projector headlights
  • LED taillights
  • LED DRLs
  • Rear LED fog lamps
  • Illuminated MG logo at the front
  • 18-inch alloy wheels
  • ORVM-mounted turn indicators
  • Glass antenna
  • Roof rails
  • Rear spoiler
  • Chrome finish on window beltline and door handles
  • Black body cladding on side and wheel arches
  • Brown and grey interior
  • Blue ambient lighting
  • 12.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system
  • 6-speaker sound system
  • Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support
  • 8.8-inch digital driver’s display
  • Panoramic sunroof
  • 6-way powered driver’s seat
  • 4-way powered co-driver’s seat
  • Ventilated front seats
  • Powered tailgate
  • 50W wireless phone charger
  • Leatherette seat upholstery
  • Leatherette materials on steering wheel and door pads
  • Drive modes: Eco, Normal, Sports, Custom
  • Rain-sensing wipers
  • PM2.5 air filter
  • Push-button start/stop
  • Powered ORVMs
  • Steering-mounted audio controls
  • Tilt and telescopic adjustable steering column
  • Cruise control
  • 2nd row features: 60:40 split, seat recline, one-touch tumble, centre armrest with cupholders
  • 3rd row features: 50:50 split
  • USB Type-A and Type-C chargers in 1st and 2nd rows
  • All four power windows with one-touch up/down and anti-pinch functions
  • Rear wiper and washer
  • Pet mode, Nap mode and Camp mode
  • Connected car technology
  • 6 airbags
  • 360-degree camera with under-bonnet and wheel views
  • Digital rearview monitor
  • Reverse parking sensors
  • All four disc brakes
  • Electronic parking brake with auto hold
  • TPMS
  • Front and rear defogger
  • ISOFIX child seat anchors
  • Hill hold control
  • Traction control
  • ESP
  • ABS+EBD

 

Essence (features over Exclusive)

Price: Rs 27.80 lakh (or Rs 23.89 lakh + Rs 3.2 per km with BaaS)

  • 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system
  • 10-speaker Infinity sound system
  • Rear window sunshades
  • Driver’s seat memory and welcome/exit retract functions
  • V2L, V2V and V2H charging support
  • Level-2 ADAS
  • Auto-dimming IRVM
  • Front parking sensors
  • 256-colour ambient lighting 
  • Red brake callipers
  • Sequential turn indicators

Which MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV variant should you buy?

We recommend the entry-spec Essence variant, as it is offered with a lot of modern-day features like a 12.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a panoramic sunroof, a powered tailgate and a 360-degree camera. It also costs Rs 2.10 lakh less than the top-spec Essence, making it the more value-for-money Hector Tomahawk PHEV variant. 

Prices are ex-showroom, India.

MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV launched at Rs 25.69 lakh

MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV launched at Rs 25.69 lakh
MG-Hector-Tomahawk-PHEV

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. 

LPG Price 26 August 2026: गैस सिलेंडर खरीदने से पहले जान लें आज का ताजा रेट, दिल्ली से पटना तक कीमतें यहां देखें

26 अगस्त 2026, बुधवार को घरेलू LPG सिलेंडर की कीमतों में एक बार फिर कोई बदलाव नहीं किया गया है। देश की प्रमुख तेल कंपनियों Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL), Bharat Petroleum (BPCL) और Hindustan Petroleum (HPCL) ने आज घरेलू गैस सिलेंडर के ताजा रेट जारी कर दिए हैं। 14.2 किलोग्राम वाले सिलेंडर की कीमतें फिलहाल पिछले स्तर पर ही बनी हुई हैं। ऐसे में रसोई गैस सस्ती होने का इंतजार कर रहे आम उपभोक्ताओं को इस बार भी राहत नहीं मिली है।

देश के अलग-अलग शहरों में LPG के दाम अलग-अलग हैं और महानगरों से लेकर अन्य प्रमुख शहरों तक कीमतों में अंतर देखने को मिलता है। वहीं, कमर्शियल LPG सिलेंडर की कीमतों में हालिया बदलाव के बाद कारोबारियों को जरूर राहत मिली है। ऐसे में घरेलू गैस की कीमतों पर लोगों की नजर बनी हुई है।

दिल्ली में ₹942 पर बरकरार घरेलू LPG

तेल कंपनियों ने जून में घरेलू LPG की कीमत में 29 रुपये प्रति सिलेंडर की बढ़ोतरी की थी। इसके बाद दिल्ली में 14.2 किलो वाले सिलेंडर का भाव ₹942 पर स्थिर है। मुंबई में यह ₹941.50, कोलकाता में ₹968 और चेन्नई में ₹957.50 है।

आपके शहर में LPG सिलेंडर की कीमत कितनी है?

LPG सिलेंडर के दाम हर शहर में अलग-अलग हो सकते हैं। स्थानीय टैक्स, ट्रांसपोर्टेशन और अन्य खर्चों के कारण एक ही घरेलू सिलेंडर की कीमत में शहर के अनुसार अंतर देखने को मिलता है। इसलिए सिलेंडर बुक करने से पहले अपने शहर का ताजा LPG रेट जरूर चेक कर लें।

शहरघरेलू LPG (14.2 किलो)कमर्शियल LPG (19 किलो)
कोलकाता₹968.00₹2,872.50
मुंबई₹941.50₹2,691.50
चेन्नई₹957.50₹2,906.00
गुड़गांव₹950.50₹2,755.00
नोएडा₹939.50₹2,738.00
बैंगलोर₹944.50₹2,821.00
भुवनेश्वर₹968.00₹2,908.00
चंडीगढ़₹951.50₹2,760.00
हैदराबाद₹994.00₹2,985.00
जयपुर₹945.50₹2,765.50
लखनऊ₹979.50₹2,860.50
पटना₹1,031.50₹3,018.00
तिरुवनंतपुरम₹951.00

कमर्शियल सिलेंडर के दाम में मिली बड़ी राहत

घरेलू उपभोक्ताओं के लिए कीमतों में भले ही कोई राहत नहीं मिली हो, लेकिन 19 किलो वाले कमर्शियल LPG सिलेंडर की कीमत में इस महीने की शुरुआत में बड़ी कटौती की गई थी। अलग-अलग शहरों में यह कमी करीब ₹194 से ₹200 तक रही, जिससे होटल, रेस्टोरेंट और अन्य व्यावसायिक ग्राहकों को फायदा मिला।

LPG सप्लाई में बदल रही भारत की रणनीति

वैश्विक परिस्थितियों के बीच भारत के LPG आयात का स्रोत भी तेजी से बदल रहा है। पहले भारत अपनी LPG जरूरतों के बड़े हिस्से के लिए मध्य-पूर्व पर निर्भर था, लेकिन खाड़ी क्षेत्र में बढ़ते तनाव और होर्मुज जलडमरूमध्य से जुड़े जोखिमों के बीच अमेरिका से LPG खरीद बढ़ाई गई है।

अमेरिका से बढ़ा LPG आयात

Kpler के आंकड़ों के अनुसार, भारत ने जुलाई में अमेरिका से करीब 0.89 मिलियन टन LPG आयात किया। अगस्त में अब तक लगभग 0.62 मिलियन टन LPG अमेरिका से आई है। अगस्त के कुल LPG आयात में अमेरिकी गैस की हिस्सेदारी करीब 73% बताई गई है।

खाड़ी देशों से सप्लाई में भारी गिरावट

अमेरिका से आयात बढ़ने के साथ पारंपरिक सप्लायर देशों से LPG की आवक काफी कम हुई है। अगस्त में UAE से भारत का LPG आयात करीब 1.40 लाख टन और कतर से लगभग 60 हजार टन रहा। वहीं, जुलाई और अगस्त दोनों महीनों में सऊदी अरब से LPG आयात शून्य रहा।

 

घर बैठे ऐसे चेक करें LPG का ताजा रेट

अगर आप Indane Gas का इस्तेमाल करते हैं, तो Indian Oil की आधिकारिक वेबसाइट पर जाकर अपने राज्य और जिले का चयन करके LPG सिलेंडर की मौजूदा कीमत देख सकते हैं। Bharat Gas ग्राहक ebharatgas.com पर उपलब्ध ‘Quick Book & Pay’ विकल्प के जरिए सिलेंडर की लेटेस्ट कीमत की जानकारी प्राप्त कर सकते हैं। वहीं, HP Gas उपभोक्ता HP Pay ऐप से LPG सिलेंडर का ताजा रेट चेक कर सकते हैं। इसके अलावा, UMANG ऐप के जरिए LPG रिफिल बुक करने के साथ उसकी मौजूदा कीमत भी देखी जा सकती है।

Petrol Diesel Price Today: आज पेट्रोल भरवाने से पहले जान लें ये रेट! दिल्ली-नोएडा समेत इन शहरों में कितना है पेट्रोल-डीजल का भाव

Porsche 911 GTS vs MG Cyberster: Quarter mile race

Porsche 911 GTS vs MG Cyberster: Quarter mile race
Porsche-911-vs-MG-Cyberster

There’s no simpler way to compare one car’s performance to another than with a head-to-head quarter-mile race. And in this edition of Autocar India’s quarter-mile racing series, we’ve saved the best for last – Porsche 911 GTS T-hybrid vs MG Cyberster. On one side we have the most definitive and quintessential sports car in the form of the 911, while on the other side, the electric Cyberster represents the cutting-edge future. Let’s find out which one is quicker down the drag strip. 

Porsche 911 GTS vs MG Cyberster: Powertrain and specs 

Model 

Porsche 911 GTS 

MG Cyberster 

Powertrain 3,951cc flat-six petrol + electric motor77kWh battery, dual electric motors
Drive layout All-wheel drive All-wheel drive 
Power 541hp510hp
Torque 610Nm 725Nm 
Gearbox8-speed DCT 1-speed 
Weight 1,645kg 1,985kg 

The 911 and the Cyberster couldn’t be more different on the powertrain front. The Porsche uses a 3.6-litre flat-six turbo-petrol engine that’s coupled to an electric motor for a combined output of 541hp and 610Nm of torque. The MG, meanwhile, is powered by a 77kWh battery pack and two electric motors (one on each axle) for a total output of 510hp and 725Nm of torque. 

The MG is slightly down on power but has considerably higher torque than the Porsche. And while both get all-wheel drive to help with traction, the 911 has a 340kg weight advantage over the Cyberster. 

Porsche 911 GTS vs MG Cyberster: Drag race 

Model 

Porsche 911 GTS 

MG Cyberster 

Round 1

10.93 seconds 

11.63 seconds

Round 2

10.86 seconds 

11.54 seconds 

In race 1, both the 911 and Cyberster get off the line ferociously, but once the Porsche gets into its stride, it’s hard to catch. With the Cyberster seemingly maxing out at 170kph, the 911 keeps widening the gap till the end.

In race 2, the MG gets off the line better and even manages to pull an early lead. However, the Porsche manages to quickly reel it in and then breezes past it. Both cars improve on their race 1 times, and by the time they reach the finish line, the 911 has set the fastest-ever time at our drag races. The Porsche wins both races by around seven tenths, which is hugely impressive.

But just to put things into perspective, the Porsche costs Rs 2.82 crore, while the MG is priced at Rs 82.49 lakh (ex-showroom) – less than a third of the Porsche. While that’s some serious bang for your buck, the good old combustion power still seems to have the edge in performance.  

Autocar India’s testing standards

Before we conduct our performance tests, we check and maintain tyre pressures based on the manufacturer’s recommendations and ensure the car has a full tank of fuel. The car is then tested in a controlled environment, and the data is collected via highly accurate GPS-based timing equipment.

With inputs from Saptarshi Mondal 

3 reasons to buy the Hyundai Creta and 2 to skip it

3 reasons to buy the Hyundai Creta and 2 to skip it
Creta

The Hyundai Creta has built its reputation on a spacious cabin, a long list of features and a wide choice of powertrains. The current model is offered with a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol, 1.5-litre diesel and 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine, with multiple gearbox options across the range. However, it isn’t without its shortcomings. Here are three reasons to consider the Creta and two reasons why you may want to look elsewhere.

Pros

1. Spacious and comfortable interior

The Creta’s cabin is one of its strongest points, particularly for buyers who regularly carry passengers. There is good legroom in the rear and enough width for three adults to sit across the bench. The rear seat also gets a reclining backrest, an armrest, sunshades and neck pillows, while two USB Type-C ports are available for charging.

The front seats are comfortable and the large glasshouse provides good all-round visibility. With a manageable 4.3m length and light steering, the Creta is also easy to use in the city.

2. Feature-packed

The Creta is among the better-equipped SUVs in its class. Depending on the variant, equipment includes a 10.25-inch touchscreen, 10.25-inch digital driver’s display, panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, powered driver’s seat, dual-zone climate control, an air purifier, 360-degree camera and Bose audio system. Higher variants also get Level 2 ADAS, including features such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist and autonomous emergency braking. The Creta also offers connected-car features and retains physical controls for the air-conditioning, making frequently used functions easy to operate without relying entirely on the touchscreen.

3. Wide powertrain lineup

The Creta offers one of the widest powertrain choices in the midsize SUV segment. It is available in 27 variants, with three engines to choose from: a 115hp 1.5-litre petrol, a 160hp 1.5-litre turbo-petrol and a 116hp 1.5-litre diesel. Depending on the engine, buyers can choose from a six-speed manual, CVT, six-speed torque convertor automatic or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.

There is also the sportier N Line for buyers looking for a more performance-focused Creta. Combined with the choice of engines, gearboxes and trims, the range caters to a broad mix of requirements.

Cons

1. Some cabin plastics could be better

While the Creta’s cabin looks modern and its materials have generally pleasing textures, the quality of some of the plastics falls short of the best in the segment. There are no soft-touch materials on the dashboard and the fit and finish isn’t Hyundai’s best, with the gloss finish on the centre console also appearing uneven in places.

There are a few other minor shortcomings too. The rear centre passenger does not get a headrest, while the front armrest is not adjustable for length.

2. Top versions are pricey

The Hyundai Creta’s top-spec versions are priced up to Rs 20.11 lakh (ex-showroom). For comparison, the Renault Duster tops out at Rs 18.49 lakh, while the Skoda Kushaq goes up to Rs 18.99 lakh. That puts it Rs 1.62 lakh above the Duster and Rs 1.12 lakh above the Kushaq, making the top-spec Creta a relatively expensive proposition compared with some of its similarly sized alternatives.

All you need to know about the 2027 Skoda Superb diesel

All you need to know about the 2027 Skoda Superb diesel
2027 Skoda Superb diesel front quarter

Skoda will be bringing the fourth-generation Superb to India in 2027 in its top-spec Laurin & Klement (L&K) trim, no less. However, this time around, the premium sedan will be offered in diesel guise – a first for the brand since it discontinued diesel models in India when BS6 emission norms took effect in 2020. Without further ado, here’s all you need to know about the upcoming 2027 Skoda Superb diesel.

1. How much will the 2027 Skoda Superb diesel cost?

2027 Skoda Superb diesel L&K

Skoda will bring the 2027 Superb diesel to India in limited numbers via the CBU (completely built units) route, with the expected starting price to be around Rs 50 lakh (ex-showroom). This means that the fully imported fourth-gen Superb diesel could be priced along the same lines as the Toyota Camry, which also has the price benefit of being a CKD (completely knocked down) model.

2. When will deliveries of the 2027 Skoda Superb diesel start in India

The reason why Skoda is yet to finalise on the price of the India-spec Superb diesel has to do with the upcoming India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which is set to come into effect by early 2027. While the FTA’s lower import duties will benefit fully imported modes like the Skoda Superb, the brand is awaiting further clarity before announcing its price. We know that the premium sedan will reach our shores in Q1 or Q2 of 2027 and will only be available in limited numbers.

3. What engine and gearbox will the 2027 Skoda Superb diesel get?

2027 Skoda Superb diesel engine

Under the bonnet of the 2027 Skoda Superb sits a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged diesel (TDI) engine rated at 150hp and 360Nm of torque. This transverse-mounted engine comes mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT) and drives the front wheels. Drive modes aside, the 2027 Skoda Superb for India will get the brand’s Progressive Dynamic Steering and Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) systems. Skoda says that these automatically adjust the car’s ride and handling balance depending on the drive mode, road conditions and vehicle speed.

4. What are the exterior highlights of the 2027 Skoda Superb diesel?

2027 Skoda Superb diesel front quarter

The top-spec L&K trim of the Skoda Superb diesel comes with Matrix LED headlamps with ‘Skoda Crystal Lighting’ branding, a large black grille with shiny surrounds, full-LED tail lamps with sequential turn indicators, 18-inch alloy wheels with turbine-like detailing, ‘Laurin & Klement’ badging on the front fenders, chrome garnish for the windowline, and a simplistic bootlid with large ‘SKODA’ lettering.

2027 Skoda Superb diesel rear quarter

Opening the power-operated bootlid reveals the Superb’s familiar liftback design and a 645-litre luggage space. There are storage cubbies here too, along with bag hooks, an extendable cargo cover, a space-saver spare wheel, flip-down rear seat releases and through-loading for carrying longer items. Overall, the 2027 Skoda Superb looks elegant and premium, while its liftback design offers more practicality than a typical three-box sedan.

5. Does the interior of the 2027 Skoda Superb diesel feel premium enough?

2027 Skoda Superb diesel rear seats

The 2027 Skoda Superb, like its predecessors, is aimed at buyers who prefer to be seated at the back. There’s plenty of space for rear-seat occupants – no shortage of legroom or kneeroom – even taller folks shouldn’t have trouble stretching out. The interior is upholstered in what Skoda calls “Cognac leather”, which looks premium.

2027 Skoda Superb diesel front seats

The quality and tactility of the physical dials up front feel good, too. These dials integrate multiple functions and users can cycle through the climate control and seat ventilation & heating settings easily. There’s a covered storage tray beneath these dials and another even deeper storage cubby under the front-centre armrest. The front seats look nice and are multi-way powered and have a memory feature, of course.

6. What are some of the feature highlights of the 2027 Skoda Superb diesel?

Enhancing comfort further is a ‘Rear Sleep Packagage, which bring sunblinds for the rear-side windows as well as for the rear windscreen, and specially designed ‘wings’ on the headrests to help support your head should you fall asleep. There’s a fold-down armrest with cupholders and also a slot for holding a smartphone – the backrest of the front seats also get such device holders.

2027 Skoda Superb diesel interior

Other highlights inside the 2027 Skoda Superb diesel include roof-mounted LED reading lights, a dedicated climate control zone for the rear seats (it’s a three-zone system), backlit USB charging ports, a 14-speaker Canton audio system, multi-colour LED ambient lighting, a wireless charging slot at the front, a 12.9-inch touch-infotainment system, 360-degree cameras, Level 2 ADAS and 10 airbags. However, the 2027 Superb misses out on a sunroof and recline-adjustable rear seats, among a few other features.

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All you need to know about the Mahindra Scorpio Lifestyler

Kia Sonet vs Toyota Taisor turbo-petrol automatic performance compared

Kia Sonet vs Toyota Taisor turbo-petrol automatic performance compared

Kia Sonet vs Toyota Taisor turbo-petrol automatic performance compared
Kia Sonet vs Toyota Taisor turbo-petrol automatic performance compared

The Kia Sonet and Toyota Taisor are among the several compact SUVs you can buy with a turbo-petrol automatic powertrain. Both come with identically sized engines, but are quite different in the power output and gearbox departments. We put the Sonet and Taisor through our instrumented real-world performance testing to see which compact SUV comes out on top.

Explore full specs, features, and a price breakdown in our Kia Sonet vs Toyota Taisor comparison.

Kia Sonet vs Toyota Taisor turbo-petrol automatic: Specifications

 SonetTaisor
Engine998cc, 3 cyl, turbo-petrol998cc, 3 cyl, turbo-petrol
Fuel injection systemDirectDirect
Power (hp)120100
Torque (Nm)172147.6
Gearbox7-speed DCT6-speed AT
Kerb weight (kg)1,210*1,060
Drive layoutFWDFWD
Power-to-weight99.2hp per tonne*94.4hp per tonne
Torque-to-weight142.1Nm per tonne*139.2Nm per tonne

*Estimated figures or based on estimated figures.

As noted above, both the Sonet and Taisor come with 1.0-litre 3-cylinder direct-injection turbo-petrol engines. However, the Sonet is considerably more powerful than the Taisor. The Sonet also pairs its engine with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic, while the Taisor comes with a 6-speed torque converter. A DCT is usually favoured for performance on account of its quick shifts, whereas torque converters swap cogs slightly slower but smoother thanks to their fluid coupling. That said, the Taisor is lighter than the Sonet.

Kia Sonet vs Toyota Taisor turbo-petrol automatic: 0-100kph sprint

Despite the Sonet’s power advantage and quicker-shifting DCT, the Taisor is quicker from standstill to 100kph. Specifically, the Toyota SUV completed the sprint nearly a full second before the Sonet did. Evidently, the Taisor’s lower kerb weight looks to have offset its power deficit compared to the Sonet.

Kia Sonet vs Toyota Taisor turbo-petrol automatic: Rolling acceleration

20-80kph acceleration times (in kickdown)

Speed from 20kphSonetTaisor
30kph (seconds)0.811.00
40kph (seconds)1.861.89
50kph (seconds)3.032.58
60kph (seconds)4.143.35
70kph (seconds)5.894.54
80kph (seconds)7.436.48

In the 20-80kph kickdown test, the Sonet is off to a stronger start than the Taisor. After the 40kph mark, however, the Taisor pulls ahead and keeps expanding its lead, which stands at almost a full second by the end of the run.

40-100kph acceleration times (in kickdown)

Speed from 40kphSonetTaisor
50kph (seconds)1.131.02
60kph (seconds)2.452.11
70kph (seconds)4.213.34
80kph (seconds)5.754.85
90kph (seconds)7.506.58
100kph (seconds)9.808.40

Unlike the 20-80kph test, the Sonet was slower than the Taisor at every speed in the 40-100kph kickdown sprint. By the end, the Taisor was ahead of the small Kia by 1.4 seconds – the largest gap recorded in all three of our tests for these compact SUVs. Per our testing, then, the Toyota Taisor is clearly faster than the Kia Sonet across the board.

Prices for the Sonet turbo-petrol DCT start at Rs 10 lakh and top off at Rs 13.8 lakh, whereas the Taisor turbo-petrol AT is priced from Rs 11.86 lakh to Rs 12.78 lakh.

Autocar India’s performance testing standards

Before we conduct our performance tests, we check and maintain tyre pressures based on the manufacturer’s recommendations and ensure the car has a full tank of fuel. The car is then tested in a controlled environment with two people on board, and the data is collected via highly accurate GPS-based timing equipment.

All prices are ex-showroom, India.