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Mahindra Thar Facelift: महिंद्रा अगले हफ्ते फेसलिफ्टेड Thar 3-डोर लॉन्च करने वाली है। इस अपडेटेड लाइफस्टाइल SUV में बड़ी Thar Roxx से प्रेरित कई स्टाइलिंग बदलाव देखने को मिल सकते हैं। हालांकि, इसके मैकेनिकल पैकेज में कोई बदलाव होने की उम्मीद नहीं है। बता दें कि Thar 3-डोर को पिछली बार अक्टूबर 2025 में अपडेट किया गया था, लेकिन महिंद्रा अब एक और अपडेट की तैयारी कर रही है जो मुख्य रूप से इसके बाहरी डिजाइन पर केंद्रित होगा।

वहीं, फेसलिफ्टेड SUV के टेस्ट म्यूल्स पहले ही पब्लिक सड़कों पर देखे जा चुके हैं, जिनसे कई ऐसे बदलावों का पता चलता है जो 3-डोर Thar को देखने में इसके 5-डोर वर्जन के ज्यादा करीब लाते हैं।

Thar facelift का फ्रंट लुक ‘Roxx’ जैसा होगा

सबसे बड़े बदलाव इसके फ्रंट हिस्से में होने की उम्मीद है। फेसलिफ्टेड Thar में गोल LED हेडलैंप्स मिल सकते हैं जो ग्रिल के साथ एक ही लेवल पर लगे होंगे, जबकि मौजूदा SUV में ये अंदर की तरफ लगे होते हैं। उम्मीद है कि हेडलैंप्स में C-शेप की LED डे-टाइम रनिंग लाइट्स (DRL) होंगी, जिससे थ्री-डोर मॉडल का लुक काफी हद तक Thar Roxx जैसा दिखेगा।

छह-स्लॉट वाली ग्रिल को भी नए सिरे से डिजाइन किया जाएगा और इसमें नया टू-पीस लेआउट देखने को मिल सकता है। इस अपडेट के तहत फ्रंट बंपर और टर्न इंडिकेटर्स में भी थोड़े-बहुत बदलाव किए जा सकते हैं।

मौजूदा Thar में हैलोजन हेडलैंप के साथ अलग LED DRLs का इस्तेमाल किया गया है, जिससे नया लाइटिंग सेटअप फेसलिफ्टेड मॉडल में सबसे साफ दिखने वाले बदलावों में से एक बन गया है।

नए अलॉय व्हील्स और बदले हुए टेल-लैंप

Thar के साइड प्रोफाइल में बदलाव सिर्फ नए अलॉय व्हील्स तक ही सीमित रहने की उम्मीद है। वहीं टेस्ट किए गए गाड़ियों में नए डिजाइन वाले अलॉय व्हील्स देखे गए हैं, जो Thar Roxx में मिलने वाले अलॉय व्हील्स जैसे ही लगते हैं।

पीछे की तरफ, वर्टिकली स्टैक्ड LED टेल-लैंप्स का ओवरऑल शेप तो वैसा ही रहने की उम्मीद है, लेकिन उनके अंदर के ग्राफिक्स में बदलाव हो सकता है। महिंद्रा इस फेसलिफ्ट के साथ नए एक्सटीरियर कलर ऑप्शन भी पेश कर सकती है।

कोई बड़ा मैकेनिकल बदलाव नहीं

स्टाइलिंग में बड़े बदलाव के बावजूद, फेसलिफ्टेड Thar 3-डोर में कोई बड़ा मैकेनिकल बदलाव होने की उम्मीद नहीं है। इसमें मौजूदा 2.0-लीटर टर्बो-पेट्रोल, 2.2-लीटर डीजल और 1.5-लीटर डीजल इंजन ऑप्शन ही मिलते रहेंगे।

2.0-लीटर टर्बो-पेट्रोल इंजन 152bhp की पावर और 300Nm का टॉर्क देता है, जबकि 2.2-लीटर डीजल इंजन 132bhp की पावर और 300Nm का टॉर्क देता है। 1.5-लीटर डीजल इंजन 119bhp की पावर और 300Nm का टॉर्क देता है।

गियरबॉक्स की बात करें तो पूरी रेंज में 6-स्पीड मैनुअल गियरबॉक्स जारी रहने की उम्मीद है। वहीं, 6-स्पीड ऑटोमैटिक गियरबॉक्स 2.0-लीटर पेट्रोल और 2.2-लीटर डीजल इंजन के साथ मिलता रहेगा।

इसके अलावा, 2.0-लीटर पेट्रोल और 2.2-लीटर डीजल इंजन के साथ फोर-व्हील ड्राइव (4WD) का विकल्प भी जारी रहने की उम्मीद है। यह सुविधा मैनुअल और ऑटोमैटिक दोनों गियरबॉक्स के साथ मिल सकती है। वहीं, टर्बो-पेट्रोल इंजन के साथ ऑटोमैटिक गियरबॉक्स और रियर-व्हील ड्राइव (RWD) का विकल्प भी पहले की तरह उपलब्ध रह सकता है।

अगले हफ्ते लॉन्च होगी Thar फेसलिफ्ट

Mahindra की आने वाली Thar फेसलिफ्ट में मुख्य रूप से डिजाइन में बदलाव किए जाएंगे। कंपनी छोटी 3-डोर SUV में Thar Roxx के कई डिजाइन एलिमेंट्स शामिल कर सकती है। इससे Thar का लुक पहले से ज्यादा नया और मॉडर्न नजर आएगा। इसके अलावा, Roxx के साथ ज्यादा पार्ट्स साझा करने से कंपनी को प्रोडक्शन को आसान बनाने में भी मदद मिल सकती है।

Thar फेसलिफ्ट की टेस्टिंग पहले से चल रही है। ऐसे में Mahindra इसे अगले हफ्ते भारत में लॉन्च कर सकती है। नए मॉडल में ज्यादा मॉडर्न डिजाइन मिलेगा, जबकि इसके मौजूदा इंजन और बाकी मैकेनिकल पैकेज में बड़े बदलाव नहीं किए जाएंगे।

यह भी पढ़ें: Maruti Suzuki Baleno Facelift की पूरी कीमत लिस्ट जारी, जानें सभी वेरिएंट्स के दाम

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2026 BMW 7 Series vs Mercedes S-Class: Which is the better sedan?

Posted on September 11, 2026September 11, 2026 by admin

2026 BMW 7 Series vs Mercedes S-Class: Which is the better luxury sedan?

BMW has launched the facelifted 7 Series in India, bringing a redesigned exterior and interior, more features, and a more powerful powertrain. Its arch-rival, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, also received a facelift earlier this year. The two have been fierce competitors in the luxury sedan segment since their respective introductions. Now that the updated versions are on sale, which one makes the better buy? Let’s find out.

2026 BMW 7 Series vs Mercedes S-Class: Dimensions

The 7 Series has a slightly larger wheelbase and is overall a bit longer than the S-Class

2026 BMW 7 Series vs Mercedes S-Class: Dimensions and other specifications
	BMW 7 Series	Mercedes S-Class	Difference
Length (mm)	5,395	5,304	+91
Width (mm)	1,950	1,921	+29
Height (mm)	1,550	1,503	+47
Wheelbase (mm)	3,215	3,216	-1
Boot space (litres)	540	345	+195

The 2026 BMW 7 Series is longer and slightly taller than the S-Class, while the two sedans have a similar wheelbase and width. The BMW also offers a 195-litre larger boot, giving it a clear advantage in terms of luggage capacity. The 7 Series is also expected to offer more cabin space, as the S-Class’ underbody battery pack for its plug-in-hybrid (PHEV) powertrain takes up some of the available space.

2026 BMW 7 Series vs Mercedes S-Class: Powertrain specs

Both sedans get similar engines, but the S-Class has a PHEV powertrain

2026 BMW 7 Series vs Mercedes S-Class: Engine specifications and driving tech
	BMW 7 Series	Mercedes S-Class
Engine	3.0-litre 6-cyl petrol	3.0-litre 6-cyl petrol
Hybrid type	Mild hybrid	Plug-in hybrid
Power (hp)	400	435
Torque (Nm)	540	680
Transmission	8-speed AT	9-speed AT
Drivetrain	RWD	RWD
Fuel efficiency	NA	32.3kpl (WLTP)
0-100kph	5.4 seconds	5.7 seconds
Top speed	250kph	250kph
All-electric range	NA	115km (WLTP)

Both the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class are powered by 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engines. However, the S-Class gets a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain, while the 7 Series is offered with a mild-hybrid setup. As a result, the S-Class has a claimed all-electric range of 115km, a feature the 7 Series does not offer. BMW is yet to reveal the 7 Series’ claimed fuel efficiency, but the S-Class PHEV will be the more efficient of the two.

The S-Class is also more powerful, producing 35hp and 140Nm more than the 7 Series. Despite this, it is 0.3 seconds slower from 0-100kph, with the added weight of the PHEV components likely contributing to the difference.

Both sedans are rear-wheel-drive (RWD) models and come equipped with air suspension and rear-axle steering.

2026 BMW 7 Series vs Mercedes S-Class: Exterior

Exterior features are similar on both luxury sedans

2026 BMW 7 Series vs Mercedes S-Class: Exterior
	BMW 7 Series	Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Headlights	Auto LED	Auto LED
DRLs	LED	LED
Taillights	LED	LED
Carpet lights	Yes	Yes
Other illumination	Grille surrounds	Grille surrounds
Alloy wheels	20-inch	20-inch

On the exterior front, the features are similar, with both sedans getting an all-LED lighting system, including illuminated grille surrounds and carpet lights. The alloy wheel sizes are also similar at 20 inches.

2026 BMW 7 Series vs Mercedes S-Class: Interior, features

The 7 Series offers larger screens

2026 BMW 7 Series vs Mercedes S-Class: Interior and features
	BMW 7 Series	Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Instrumentation screen	Panoramic iDrive display	12.3-inch display
Infotainment screen	17.9-inch	14.4-inch
Front passenger display	14.6-inch	12.3-inch
Android Auto, Apple CarPlay	Wireless	Wireless
Head-up display	Coloured, 3D	Coloured, AR-based
Audio system	35-speaker Bowers & Wilkins	31-speaker Burmester
Rear screen	Yes, one 31.3-inch display	Yes, two 13.1-inch displays
Roof	Panoramic glass roof	Panoramic sunroof
Climate control	4-zone	4-zone
Seat upholstery	Leather	Leather
Wireless phone charger	Both rows	Both rows
1st row seat heating, ventilation, massage	Yes	Yes
2nd row seat heating, ventilation, massage	Yes	Yes
Window sunshades	Yes, powered	Yes, powered
Rear windshield sunshade	Yes, powered	Yes, powered
Powered doors	Yes	Yes
Powered tailgate	Yes	Yes
Ambient lighting	Yes	64 colours
USB ports	Type-A and C	Type-A and C
Connected car tech	Yes	Yes

While both sedans are loaded with features, the 7 Series emerges as the more tech-laden of the two. It gets a larger infotainment and passenger display, along with BMW’s Panoramic iDrive display, which shows key instrumentation across the lower portion of the windscreen. Its rear-seat entertainment display is also larger than the two rear entertainment screens offered in the S-Class.

While this is unlikely to influence a buying decision, one notable distinction is the roof design. The 7 Series gets a panoramic glass roof, whereas the S-Class is equipped with a panoramic sunroof.

2026 BMW 7 Series vs Mercedes S-Class: Safety

S-Class offers more airbags

2026 BMW 7 Series vs Mercedes S-Class: Safety features
	BMW 7 Series	Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Airbags	7	15
ADAS	Level-2	Level-2
Camera setup	360-degree	360-degree
Driver monitor camera	Yes	Yes
Parking sensors	Front and rear	Front and rear
Auto park assist	Yes	Yes
Parking brake	Electronic	Electronic
Disc brakes	Front and rear	Front and rear
TPMS	Yes	Yes
IRVM	Auto-dimming	Auto-dimming
Hill start assist	Yes	Yes
Hill descent control	Yes	Yes
ESC	Yes	Yes

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class gets 15 airbags, eight more than the BMW 7 Series. However, both sedans offer a similar suite of safety features, including Level 2 advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), a 360-degree camera, and auto-parking assistance.

2026 BMW 7 Series vs Mercedes S-Class: What to choose?

7 Series is slightly more affordable than the S-Class

2026 BMW 7 Series vs Mercedes S-Class: Prices (ex-showroom)
Model	Price range (in Rs, crore)
BMW 7 Series	1.95
Mercedes-Benz S-Class	2.20-2.38

The BMW 7 Series is Rs 25 lakh more affordable than the S-Class, yet it offers more technology, a larger boot, and quicker 0-100kph acceleration. With all these advantages at a significantly lower price, the 7 Series makes a stronger case for itself and is the more recommendable choice over the S-Class.

Prices are ex-showroom, India.

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All you need to know about BMW 7 Series, i7 facelifts before launch

Posted on September 10, 2026September 10, 2026 by admin

All you need to know about BMW 7 Series, i7 facelifts before launch tomorrow

Launched in 2023, the seventh-generation BMW 7 Series and i7 are set to receive a facelift on September 11. The updated versions were unveiled internationally in April 2026 and feature revised exterior styling, a significantly updated cabin with Neue Klasse-inspired elements, and upgrades to both combustion and electric powertrains. Here’s everything you need to know about the new BMW 7 Series and i7 ahead of their launch tomorrow.

1. What are the expected prices of the BMW 7 Series, i7 facelifts?

Expected to have a significant hike over the outgoing model’s prices

International-spec model has been used for representative purposes only.

The outgoing BMW 7 Series was priced at Rs 1.85 crore (ex-showroom) for both the petrol and diesel variants, while the i7 was priced between Rs 2.10 crore and Rs 2.58 crore. Owing to the updated styling, additional technology and powertrain changes, BMW is expected to increase the prices of both models by a considerable margin.

2. What powertrain options will the facelifted BMW 7 Series, i7 offer?

Expected to be offered with more powerful and newer versions of the same powertrains

BMW has not yet revealed the official powertrain details of the India-spec 7 Series and i7 facelifts. However, the international models give us an idea of what to expect in India.

In India, the 7 Series was offered with 740i and 740d powertrains. Internationally, the updated 740i is now called the 740 xDrive and uses the same 3.0-litre, six-cylinder turbo-petrol engine. It produces 400hp and 580Nm, up by 19hp and 60Nm. The 740d continues with its 3.0-litre, six-cylinder diesel engine and produces 313hp and 670Nm, up by 27hp and 20Nm.

The BMW i7 also gets updated powertrains. The eDrive50 is now called the 50 xDrive and switches from rear-wheel drive (RWD) to all-wheel drive (AWD). It gets a larger 112.4kWh battery from the previous 101.7kWh unit. Its dual-motor setup produces 445hp (3hp less) and 660Nm (10Nm more). Its claimed WLTP-claimed range is 727km, up by 103km.

The i7 M70 xDrive also gets the larger 112.4kWh battery and continues with an AWD setup. It produces 680hp and 1,015Nm, 30hp more than before, while torque remains unchanged. Its claimed WLTP-claimed range has increased by 62km to 686km.

The India-spec 7 Series and i7 are expected to get the same powertrain specifications as the international models.

3. Will BMW offer the 7 Series facelift with a plug-in hybrid powertrain?

BMW is yet to reveal whether such a powertrain will be offered in India

BMW M760e xDrive shown for representative purposes only.

As mentioned earlier, BMW has not yet revealed the exact powertrain specifications for the 7 Series facelift. Internationally, the model is available with a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain. The 612hp, M760e xDrive is already available internationally, and 483hp, 750e xDrive variants are also expected to join the international lineup by 2027.

It remains to be seen whether BMW will bring a PHEV version of the 7 Series to India, especially since the Mercedes-Benz S-Class is already available with a plug-in hybrid powertrain in the country.

4. What exterior changes are expected on the BMW 7 Series, i7 facelifts?

Gets new lighting elements, redesigned bumpers, and fresh alloy wheels

BMW has made subtle changes to the exterior design of the facelifted 7 Series and i7, while keeping the overall look largely unchanged. At the front, the cars get a boxier grille with new horizontal elements and an illuminated surround. The split LED headlights have also been updated, with slimmer LED DRLs at the top and vertically stacked headlights below.

The side profile remains mostly unchanged, apart from the updated alloy wheel designs. The flush-fitting door handles with illumination have been retained. At the rear, the wraparound taillights now feature new LED elements, while the bumper has been redesigned with a cleaner look and without the black trims seen on the previous model.

5. What interior changes are expected on the BMW 7 Series, i7 facelifts?

Gets BMW’s ‘Panoramic iDrive’ that replaces a traditional driver’s display

The facelifted 7 Series and i7 get most of their updates inside the cabin. The biggest change is BMW’s new Panoramic iDrive, which replaces the conventional digital instrument cluster with a full-width display at the base of the windscreen. A new 17.9-inch central touchscreen infotainment system and a 14.6-inch front passenger display, both running BMW’s latest Operating System X, are also on offer.

The facelift also gets a new four-spoke steering wheel and an updated ambient lighting system that runs across the dashboard, extends to the rear speaker grilles and adds lighting behind the front seats. The seats continue to offer electric adjustment, heating, ventilation, massage, lumbar support and heated armrests as standard. The front passenger seat can also move fully forward to provide more legroom for the passenger seated behind.

The optional rear-seat Theatre Screen has grown to 31.3 inches and now features an 8K resolution, with support for video calls, streaming and gaming. The screens in the rear doors have also been updated, allowing passengers to adjust the Theatre Screen’s position and viewing angle, as well as control other cabin functions. BMW has also revised the automatic door controls, with the open and close buttons moved to a more convenient position.

Prices are ex-showroom, India.

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Benefits up to Rs 3 lakh on Mahindra Scorpio N in September 2026

Posted on September 8, 2026September 8, 2026 by admin

September 2026 offers on Mahindra models, including the Scorpio N, Thar Roxx, 3-door Thar and XUV 3XO. The maximum benefits are available with the older Scorpio N stock, followed by the Thar Roxx. However, the XUV 7XO, or any EV, including BE 6 Sporteq, XEV 9e and XEV 9S, are not carrying any official benefits. Let us take a look at the model-wise offer breakdown for Mahindra models in India for the month of September 2026.

Note: The mentioned offers are applicable till September 30 and may vary by city, dealership and stock availability. Please check with your nearest Mahindra dealership for the exact figures.

Mahindra Scorpio N September 2026 offers

Up to Rs 3 lakh

Select variants of the older-stock Mahindra Scorpio N are being offered with benefits up to Rs 3 lakh. This includes consumer offers of up to Rs 1.50 lakh, cash discounts of up to Rs 1.25 lakh and free accessories worth up to Rs 25,000. The current-spec Mahindra Scorpio N is priced from Rs 13.69 lakh to Rs 25.49 lakh and serves as an alternative to 3-row SUVs like the Tata Safari, Mahindra XUV 7XO, MG Hector Plus and Hyundai Alcazar.

Mahindra Thar Roxx September 2026 offers

Up to Rs 2.40 lakh

Select variants of the Mahindra Thar Roxx are available with offers of up to Rs 2.40 lakh in September 2026. Total benefits include consumer offers of up to Rs 1.20 lakh, cash discounts of up to Rs 90,000 and free accessories of up to Rs 30,000, depending on the variant chosen. The Mahindra Thar Roxx prices range from Rs 12.52 lakh to Rs 23.52 lakh. It locks horns with the Force Gurkha 5-door and can be considered an alternative to midsize SUVs like the Hyundai Creta, Tata Sierra and Renault Duster.

Mahindra XUV 3XO September 2026 offers

Up to Rs 1.20 lakh

The Mahindra XUV 3XO is offered with total benefits of up to Rs 1.20 lakh, depending on the selected variant. These include up to Rs 60,000 in consumer offers, up to Rs 40,000 cash discount and up to Rs 20,000 worth of free accessories. The Mahindra XUV 3XO is priced from Rs 7.79 lakh to Rs 15.04 lakh, and rivals compact SUVs such as the Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, and Maruti Suzuki Brezza.

Mahindra Scorpio Classic September 2026 offers

Up to Rs 1.10 lakh

The Scorpio Classic is being offered with total benefits of up to Rs 1.10 lakh in September 2026. Along with consumer offers worth Rs 50,000, it also includes a cash discount of up to Rs 30,000 and free accessories worth up to Rs 30,000, depending on the variant. Prices of the Mahindra Scorpio Classic range from Rs 3.37 lakh to Rs 17.40 lakh.

Mahindra Thar 3-door September 2026 offers

Up to Rs 1 lakh

Mahindra is offering the 3-door Thar’s four-wheel-drive (4WD) variants with benefits of up to Rs 1 lakh, which includes consumer offers of up to Rs 50,000, cash discounts of up to Rs 30,000 and free accessories worth up to Rs 20,000. The rear-wheel-drive (RWD) variants, however, are offered with no official offers. The Mahindra Thar is priced from Rs 10.32 lakh to Rs 18 lakh and it locks horns with Force Gurkha 3-door and can be considered an alternative to the Maruti Suzuki Jimny.

Mahindra Bolero Neo (including Neo Plus) September 2026 offers

Up to Rs 50,000

Mahindra is offering the Bolero Neo Plus with offers up to Rs 50,000, including a consumer offer of up to Rs 25,000, a cash discount of up to Rs 15,000 and free accessories worth up to Rs 10,000, depending on the variant. The Bolero Neo gets lower benefits of up to Rs 20,000, which includes a consumer offer and a cash discount of up to Rs 10,000 each. The Bolero Neo Plus is priced from Rs 11.39 lakh to Rs 13.49 lakh, while the smaller Bolero Neo prices range from Rs 8.99 lakh to Rs 10.79 lakh.

Prices are ex-showroom, India.

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Real world charging times of all EVs tested in 2026

Posted on September 6, 2026September 6, 2026 by admin

Real world charging times of all EVs tested in 2026

We’ve tested the charging performance of seven EVs so far in 2026, spanning a range of battery capacities and DC fast-charging capabilities. We recorded their 20-80 percent charging times as well as their peak charging speeds. Here’s how they rank from the slowest to the fastest.

7. Tata Punch EV

Prices: Rs 9.79 lakh to Rs 12.99 lakh

Tata updated the Punch EV earlier this year, bringing with it larger battery packs (30kWh and 40kWh), among other updates. Besides being the most affordable EV here, it’s also the slowest-charging car on this list. That said, its performance remains respectable by segment standards.

Using a 180kW DC fast charger, charging speeds hovered between 65-67kW from 25-50 percent state of charge, before tapering off beyond 50 percent and dropping sharply after 90 percent. Its 40kWh battery pack took 27 minutes to charge from 20-80 percent, and another 31 minutes to reach 100 percent. We also observed a peak charging speed of 67.3kW, slightly exceeding Tata’s claimed 65kW.

6. Toyota Urban Cruiser Ebella

Price: Rs 23.60 lakh

The Urban Cruiser Ebella is Toyota’s only EV on sale in India and is offered in a single variant with a 61kWh battery pack.

Using a 90kW DC fast charger, we recorded a peak charging speed of 68.2kW. Charging the 61kWh battery from 20-80 percent took 35 minutes, while the final 20 percent required another 36 minutes. Impressively, charging speeds remained consistently between 67-68kW from 20-50 percent state of charge.

You can expect similar charging performance from the Maruti Suzuki e Vitara, as the two models are essentially the same vehicle.

5. Mahindra BE 6 Sporteq

Prices: Rs 19.45 lakh to Rs 26.95 lakh

We charged the Mahindra BE 6 Sporteq, equipped with the 79kWh battery pack, using a 150kW DC fast charger. During the test, we recorded a peak charging speed of around 90kW, which is roughly half of Mahindra’s claimed figure. That said, charging speeds remained consistent at around 87-89kW from 20-80 percent state of charge, which is commendable.

The BE 6 took 33 minutes to charge from 20-80 percent and another 35 minutes to go from 80-100 percent.

Notably, owners have reported higher charging speeds, closer to the claimed 180kW, when using Mahindra and Zeon charging stations.

4. Vinfast VF7

Prices: Rs 22.99 lakh to Rs 28.09 lakh

We tested the dual-motor Vinfast VF7, equipped with a 70kWh battery, using a 180kW DC fast charger and observed a peak charging speed of 95.4kW.

Vinfast claims that charging from 10-70 percent takes 28 minutes. In our test, the VF7 required 38 minutes to charge from 20-80 percent using the same 180kW charger.

3. Mercedes-Benz CLA 250+

Price: Rs 60.50 lakh

The Mercedes-Benz CLA 250+ is equipped with an 85kWh battery pack and an 800-volt electrical architecture, enabling charging speeds of up to 320kW. Mercedes claims a 10-80 percent charging time of just 22 minutes.

For our test, we used a 150kW DC fast charger, and the CLA’s 85kWh battery charged from 20-80 percent in 35 minutes and reached 100 percent after another 34 minutes. We recorded a peak charging speed of 125kW, with the charging rate averaging 96kW between 20-70 percent state of charge.

2. Tesla Model Y RWD:

Price: Rs 50.89 lakh

Tesla currently offers the 2026 Model Y in India with a single rear-mounted motor and a 60kWh LFP battery (64kWh gross). Using a 250kW Tesla Supercharger, the battery initially charged at an impressive rate. However, charging speeds dropped rapidly from 176kW at 30 percent state of charge to 109kW at 40 percent, before continuing to taper off thereafter.

In terms of charging times, the Model Y took 23 minutes to charge from 20-80 percent, while the final 20 percent required another 30 minutes.

1. Hyundai Ioniq 5:

Price: Rs 55.71 lakh

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is the fastest-charging EV we’ve tested so far in 2026. The updated model features a larger 84kWh battery pack, up from 72.6kWh in the previous version. Using a 360kW DC fast charger, charging speeds remained between 240-250kW from 30-50 percent state of charge before dropping sharply. We also recorded a peak charging speed of 251kW at around 50 percent state of charge.

As for charging times, the Ioniq 5 took just 16 minutes to charge from 20-80 percent – quickest we’ve seen to date; while reaching 100 percent required another 33 minutes.

Prices are ex-showroom, India.

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2026 Mahindra Thar 3-door facelift spied with new fascia

Posted on August 29, 2026August 29, 2026 by admin

A newly spotted test mule of the upcoming Mahindra Thar 3-door facelift previews the off-roader’s revised front end. While the Thar 3-door received a nip-and-tuck with some feature additions in October 2025, this upcoming facelift looks to be more comprehensive in scope. Expect the 2026 Thar 3-door facelift to launch in the coming months, priced slightly higher than the current model, which costs Rs 10.32 lakh-18 lakh (ex-showroom).

2026 Mahindra Thar 3-door facelift exterior updates

Previous test mule sightings of the facelifted Thar 3-door hinted at an all-new grille that heavily resembles the double-stacked 6-slat one of the Thar Roxx. This test mule, however, has a different 5-slot grille with a small horizontal intrusion on the right side, possibly to accommodate a badge. The discrepancy in grille designs is unclear, with one likely explanation being that the Thar 3-door facelift will be sold in different editions with unique grilles. Aside from the grille, new 5-spoke alloy wheels can also be spotted on the test mule.

2026 Mahindra Thar 3-door facelift powertrain updates

Under the bonnet, the facelifted Thar 3-door is expected to retain the current model’s 119hp 1.5-litre diesel, 132hp 2.2-litre diesel, and 152hp 2.0-litre direct-injection turbo-petrol engine options. All engines get a 6-speed manual gearbox as standard, with the 2.2-litre diesel and 2.0-litre turbo-petrol ones additionally offering a 6-speed torque converter automatic. 4×4 can be equipped with those two engines as well, while the 1.5-litre diesel comes with 4×2 (RWD) only. As we exclusively reported last April, An electric power steering system is also expected to replace the current hydraulic setup.

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MG Hector Tomahawk EV 5-seater vs rivals: Price, specs compared

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

MG Motor India has launched the Hector Tomahawk EV in India as the brand’s contender for the electric midsize SUV segment. In this space, the 5-seat version of the Hector Tomahawk EV rivals the Tata Harrier EV, Mahindra XEV 9e, Vinfast VF7, and BYD Atto 3. Let’s have a look at how MG’s latest SUV stacks up against its peers on paper.

MG Hector Tomahawk EV 5-seater vs rivals: dimensions

Tallest in its segment, and one of the longest

	Hector Tomahawk EV	Harrier EV	XEV 9e	VF7	Atto 3
Length (mm)	4,745	4,607	4,789	4,550	4,455
Width (mm)	1,850	1,922	1,907	1,893	1,875
Height (mm)	1,770	1,740	1,694	1,596	1,615
Wheelbase (mm)	2,810	2,741	2,775	2,840	2,720
Wheel size (inches)	18	18-19	19	19	17-18
Boot space (litres)	610	502*	663	537	440
Frunk space (litres)	N/A	35-67	150	N/A	N/A

*Measured till roof instead of parcel tray.

The Hector Tomahawk EV is the second-longest SUV in its segment, falling behind the XEV 9e by only 44mm. That said, the Hector Tomahawk EV extracts a longer wheelbase from its length than the XEV 9e does, but even so, it’s behind the VF7 by a margin of 30mm. The MG electric SUV is the narrowest among its rivals, but edges past all of them on height front. It also claims a 230mm ground clearance, but this is measured at the battery.

Coming to luggage space, the Hector Tomahawk EV has the second-largest boot here, though it doesn’t get a frunk like the Harrier EV and XEV 9e do. At 18 inches, the Hector Tomahawk EV’s alloy wheel sizes are also competitive by segment standards, though the XEV 9e and VF7 offer 19-inchers.

MG Hector Tomahawk EV 5-seater vs rivals: battery and motor

Battery size fits right between those of Harrier EV and XEV 9e

	Hector Tomahawk EV	Harrier EV	XEV 9e	VF7	Atto 3
Battery size (kWh)	69.2	65 / 75	59 / 79	59.6 / 70	49.92 / 60.48
Electric motor setup	Single, front	Single, rear / Dual, front and rear	Single, rear	Single, front / Dual, front and rear	Single, front
Power (hp)	204	238 / 313	231 / 286	177 / 204, 353	204
Torque (Nm)	310	315 / 504	380	250 / 310, 500	310
Gearbox	1-speed AT	1-speed AT	1-speed AT	1-speed AT	1-speed AT
Drive layout	FWD	RWD / RWD, AWD	RWD	FWD / FWD, AWD	FWD
Claimed 0-100kph time (seconds)	8.2	6.3 (AWD)	6.8 (79kWh)	9.1 / 8.5 (FWD), 5.8 (AWD)	7.9 / 7.3

Under the skin, the Hector Tomahawk EV comes fitted with a sole 69.2kWh battery pack. At that capacity, it fits quite well between the ones offered by the Harrier EV and XEV 9e, comes very close to the top-spec unit of the VF7, and outsizes both of the Atto 3’s battery options. The Hector Tomahawk EV’s battery powers a sole front-mounted electric motor, making for a front-wheel drive layout. Rivals like the Harrier EV and VF7 can be had with all-wheel drive, and the XEV 9e is purely rear-wheel drive.

In terms of output, the Hector Tomahawk EV perfectly matches the Atto 3 and the 70kWh FWD version of the VF7, but significantly behind the XEV 9e and Harrier EV. Higher-powered versions of the Mahindra and Tata SUVs claim sub-7-second 0-100kph times, while the Hector Tomahawk EV’s acceleration figure slots between those of the Atto 3 and VF7.

MG Hector Tomahawk EV 5-seater vs rivals: range and charging

Range is on the lower end of the segment, and charging times are the highest

	Hector Tomahawk EV	Harrier EV	XEV 9e	VF7	Atto 3
Battery capacity (kWh)	69.2	65 / 75	59 / 79	59.6 / 70	49.92 / 60.48
Drive layout	FWD	RWD / RWD, AWD	RWD	FWD / FWD, AWD	FWD
MIDC range (km)	517	538 / 627 (RWD), 622 (AWD)	542 / 656	438 / 532 (FWD), 510 (AWD)	468 / 521
7.2kW AC charging time (hours)	12.5	9.3 / 10.7	8.7 / 11.7	–	8.0 / 9.5-10
11.2kW AC charging time (hours)	–	–	6 / 8	–	–
DC charging time (minutes)	35 (90kW)	25 (100kW) / 25 (120kW)	20 (140kW) / 20 (180kW)	24 (100kW) / 28 (110kW)	50 (88kW)

Coming to range, the Hector Tomahawk EV carries the lowest MIDC figure when compared with similarly-sized batteries offered by rivals. In fact, even the 60.48kWh Atto 3 and the smaller-battery versions of the Harrier EV and XEV 9e boast higher range figures than that of the Hector Tomahawk EV. The MG SUV also claims the longest AC charging time, more than even the 75kWh and 79kWh variants of the Harrier EV and XEV 9e, respectively.

MG Hector Tomahawk EV 5-seater vs rivals: price

Substantially cheaper than top-spec variants of competitors

	Price range (Rs, lakh)
Hector Tomahawk EV	23.00 (16.99 w/ BaaS)
Harrier EV*	21.69-29.19
XEV 9e*	21.90-29.35
VF7	22.99-28.09
Atto 3	24.99-34.49

*Prices exclusive of home charger and installation costs.

The 5-seat configuration for the Hector Tomahawk EV is available only in the top-spec Essence variant, and is priced at Rs 23 lakh. This makes the Hector Tomahawk EV much more affordable than the equivalent top-spec versions of its rivals, with the Atto 3 commanding the highest premium at over Rs 11 lakh – the BYD SUV is retailed via the CKD route in India and thereby attracts higher taxation.

It’s also worth noting that MG offers the Hector Tomahawk EV with a segment-first battery-as-a-service (BaaS) scheme. This knocks off an additional Rs 6 lakh from the sticker price, and introduces a battery rental fee of Rs 4.9/km that is to be paid on a monthly basis. At the BaaS price, the Hector Tomahawk EV competes with electric SUVs of a segment below and even undercuts a lot of them, making for stellar value.

All prices are ex-showroom, India.

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Tesla Model Y vs Mercedes CLA EV real-world range compared

Posted on August 20, 2026August 20, 2026 by admin

Tesla Model Y vs Mercedes CLA EV real-world range compared

The Tesla Model Y and Mercedes-Benz CLA EV are two zero-emission offerings priced below Rs 65 lakh, but they take very different approaches. The Model Y is a crossover and Tesla’s only model on sale in India, while the CLA sedan is the entry point to Mercedes-Benz’s EV range. They also use different battery sizes and claim different ranges. We recently put both to our comprehensive range tests to see how they compare in the real world.

Tesla Model Y vs Mercedes CLA EV: Specifications, price

	Model Y Premium	CLA EV 250+ AMG Line
Battery size (kWh)	60	85
Power (hp)	299	272
Torque (Nm)	420	335
Drive layout	RWD	RWD
Claimed range (km)	500	792
Kerb weight (kg)	1,928	2,055
Price (in Rs lakh)	50.89	60.50

Both are rear-wheel-drive electric vehicles, but the CLA 250+ AMG Line has a much larger 85kWh battery compared to the Model Y Premium RWD’s 60kWh unit. This gives the CLA a claimed range of 792km, significantly higher than the Model Y’s 500km.

The Tesla, however, makes more power and torque at 299hp and 420Nm, compared with 272hp and 335Nm for the CLA. The Model Y is also lighter at 1,928kg versus 2,055kg for the CLA.

There is also a noticeable price difference. The Model Y Premium RWD costs Rs 50.89 lakh – Rs 9.61 lakh less than the CLA 250+ AMG Line, which is priced at Rs 60.50 lakh.

Tesla Model Y vs Mercedes CLA EV: Real-world range

	Model Y Premium	CLA EV 250+ AMG Line
City (km)	350	584
Highway (km)	391	639
Average (km)	370	611.5

Clearly, the CLA 250+, with its larger battery pack, has the upper hand in real-world range despite weighing more. In our tests, it managed 584km in the city and 639km on the highway, compared with 350km and 391km, respectively, for the Model Y. The two-speed gearbox, with its taller 5:1 second gear that enables greater efficiency at higher speeds, also contributed to the EV’s highway efficiency. This gives the CLA an average real-world range of 611.5km, which is 241.5km more than the Model Y’s 370km.

Its slightly lower drag coefficient of 0.21 versus 0.22 for the Model Y is also a contributor to its higher range. That said, a 0.22Cd figure is still excellent for a crossover.

The Mercedes sedan also has stronger regenerative braking. In the strongest regen mode, the CLA EV slowed from 80kph to 20kph in 6.98 seconds, covering 96.36 metres. The Tesla Model Y took 8.28 seconds and needed 116.71 metres to cover the same speed reduction. One-pedal driving is available on both EVs.

Autocar India’s range testing

For our real-world range comparisons, we begin with each car’s battery fully charged and tyre pressures set as per the manufacturer’s recommendations. We drive the cars on a fixed loop covering both city and highway stretches while maintaining set average speeds. We then calculate the range based on the percentage of charge consumed. The AC is set to 22deg C in auto mode, and we use features such as the music system, lights and ventilated seats as needed, just as a regular user would. This approach ensures consistency and gives a clear idea of what to expect in actual conditions.

Ex-showroom prices mentioned above are as of August 20, 2026.

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Volvo EX90, ES90 India launch on October 12

Posted on August 20, 2026August 20, 2026 by admin

Volvo has confirmed that it will launch two new EVs, the EX90 SUV and the ES90 sedan, in India on October 12, 2026. The EX90 and ES90 will serve as Volvo’s flagship electric offerings for the Indian market. Notably, the ES90 will mark Volvo India’s return to the luxury sedan space, following the discontinuation of the S90 in June 2025. The EX90 is expected to rival the likes of the Mercedes-Benz EQS and Kia EV9, while the ES90 is likely to go up against the BMW i5.

Volvo EX90, ES90 battery and range

Identical 92kWh RWD and 106kWh AWD powertrains

The EX90 and ES90 are both underpinned by Volvo’s SPA2 platform, which features as 800V electrical architecture. In global markets, both EVs can be had in 92kWh (Single Motor) and 106kWh (Twin Motor) guises. In 92kWh spec, the EX90 and ES90 get a single rear-mounted motor (RWD) outputting 333hp and 480Nm. Meanwhile, the 106kWh battery option is split into Twin Motor and Twin Motor Performance variants, developing 456hp/670Nm and 680hp/870Nm, respectively.

For the EX90, 0-100kph comes up in a claimed 6.6 seconds for the 92kWh, 5.3 seconds for the 106kWh Twin Motor, and 4 seconds for the Twin Motor Performance. The ES90 Twin Motor is slightly slower from 0-100kph at 5.4 seconds, but mirrors the EX90 for the other variants.

As for WLTP range, the EX90 92kWh is rated at 565km, while the Twin Motor and Twin Motor Performance trims manage 608km and 602km, respectively. Meanwhile, the ES90’s WLTP range is certified at 664km for the 92kWh variant and 696km for the 106kWh versions.

Coming to charging speeds, both the EX90 and ES90 can utilise up to 350kW DC charging, and take 22 minutes for a 10-80 percent charge across all variants.

Volvo EX90, ES90 exterior design

Look quite different compared to the XC90 and S90

Measuring 5,037mm in length, 1,964mm in width, 1,744mm in height, and 2,985mm in wheelbase, the EX90 is dimensionally similar to the XC90, but sports a distinct design. Up front, the EX90 has sleeker T-shaped headlamps with pixel-like ‘Thor’s Hammer’ DRL signatures, below which sits a pair of slim vertically-arranged fog lamps. The Volvo badge is placed front and centre on the grille-less fascia, with a discreet air dam underneath. A LiDAR sensor can also be spotted on the leading edge of the roof.

The side profile of the EX90 is cleanly-styled, with a prominent shoulder line and gently rising glass area, and there’s not much in the way of body cladding– Volvo claims a drag coefficient of 0.29Cd. 20-inch alloy wheels are fitted as standard, with 21- and 22-inchers optionally available. Over to the rear, the EX90 gets C-shaped LED tail-lamps with an additional vertical row of brake lights flanking the rear windscreen. Other styling elements of note include a sizable roof spoiler and a Volvo wordmark on the bootlid.

Coming to the ES90, it adopts very similar styling cues to the EX90, like the Thor’s Hammer DRLs, vertical fog lamps, grille-less fascia, brake lights around the rear windshield, Volvo wordmark on the bootlid, gloss black bumpers and skirts, and more. However, the ES90 sets itself apart with slightly reshaped headlamps and tail-lamps, different alloy wheel designs (sizes range from 20 to 22 inches), and of course, its sedan form factor.

Thanks to its more low-slung proportions, the ES90 sports a drag coefficient of 0.25, which makes it the most aerodynamic Volvo car to date.

Volvo EX90, ES90 interior and features

14.5-inch infotainment touchscreen sits front and centre on the dash

Inside, the EX90 and ES90 are very similar in terms of dashboard layout. Both get a minimalistic dashboard dominated by a 14.5-inch Google-based portrait touchscreen that incorporates much of the in-car functionality– physical controls are few and far between. There’s also a floating centre console, a three-spoke steering wheel with a neat layered design, a slim 9-inch digital driver’s display, and a 13.2-inch heads-up display.

The area between the portrait screen and centre console, however, differs between the two. The EX90 has a split design with a more open cubby, whereas the ES90 has a more enclosed storage space with two buttons underneath the touchscreen.

While the ES90 is a 5-seater, the EX90 is a 7-seater as standard, with certain variants offering a 6-seat configuration with captain’s chairs for the second row. In some markets, Volvo even offers a 4-seater version of the EX90 with a rear centre console that integrates a refrigerator, rivalling the likes of the Mercedes Maybach EQS SUV. Boot space is pegged at up to 384 litres with all three rows up for the EX90 and 424 litres for the ES90. The EX90 additionally gets a 45-litre frunk, while the ES90 features a 27-litre space.

As for creature comforts, both EVs pack a 5G connection to aid OTA updates, a digital key, ambient lighting, four-zone climate control, a cabin air purifier, a wireless charging pad, a 360-degree camera, powered front seats, a panoramic glass roof, a Bose sound system, connected car tech, auto park assist, Level-3 ADAS, V2L functionality, and lots more. The EX90 is touted to be Volvo’s safest car to date, holding 5-star crash safety ratings from Euro NCAP and NCAP. The ES90, however, is yet to be crash-tested by an NCAP agency.

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Tesla Model Y India sales cross 600 units with 115 delivered in July

Posted on August 19, 2026August 19, 2026 by admin

Tesla India recorded its highest-ever monthly retail sales in July 2026, delivering 115 Model Y SUVs according to Vahan data. The American EV maker’s previous best stood at 69 units, achieved in September and December 2025. The strong performance follows Tesla’s Rs 9 lakh price cut for the Model Y in June, which lowered its starting price to Rs 50.89 lakh (ex-showroom).

Tesla holds a 16 percent share of the luxury EVs sold in July
Over 600 units of cumulative sales so far
Tesla Model Y priced between Rs 50.89 lakh and Rs 61.99 lakh (ex-showroom)

Tesla Model Y price cut drives July sales

Tesla delivered 115 Model Ys in July, up 203 percent from 38 units sold in June. The sharp increase came after the company reduced the Model Y’s starting price by Rs 9 lakh to Rs 50.89 lakh in June, improving its competitiveness in the luxury EV segment. Before the price revision, demand for the electric SUV had remained relatively limited.

Tesla becomes third-largest luxury EV brand

The July performance gave Tesla a 16 percent share of the 736 luxury electric passenger vehicles retailed during the month, placing it behind BMW India (390 units) and Mercedes-Benz India (174 units), while ahead of Volvo Auto India (51 units). Tesla’s cumulative India sales have now reached 578 units since deliveries began in September 2025, giving it an 8 percent share of the 6,825 luxury EVs sold during the same period. The company has already retailed 60 vehicles in the first 16 days of August, taking cumulative sales past the 600-unit mark.

Tesla’s record monthly sales also contributed to India’s highest-ever monthly electric passenger vehicle retail sales of 34,033 units in July. The company accounted for 0.33 percent of the overall electric passenger vehicle market during the month.

Tesla currently offers the Model Y in five-seat and six-seat Model Y L versions, priced between Rs 50.89 lakh and Rs 61.99 lakh (ex-showroom). The five-seat Premium RWD variant uses a 64kWh battery with a claimed 500km WLTP range, while the Premium Long Range RWD gets an 84.2kWh battery with a claimed 661km WLTP range. Tesla says the six-seat Model Y L features a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup with a claimed 681km WLTP range. The Model Y also is now available in India with new artificial intelligence features, the most significant being the Grok AI assistant.

With inputs from Dhruv Dhaka