Renault Duster hybrid launched at Rs 16.99 lakh

Renault Duster hybrid launched at Rs 16.99 lakh
Renault Duster hybrid launched

Renault has launched the Duster hybrid in India at an introductory price of Rs 16.99 lakh for the entry-level Evolution trim, with prices going up to Rs 19.49 lakh for the top-end Emotion trim. Customer bookings are underway at Rs 21,000, with deliveries scheduled to begin in November. The Duster hybrid takes on the strong-hybrid versions of the Maruti Grand Vitara, Maruti Victoris and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder.

  1. 1.8-litre petrol and two electric motors make a combined 160hp, with 0-100kph in a claimed 9.61sec.
  2. 1.4kWh battery pack, multi-mode automatic gearbox and a claimed 29kpl.
  3. Features include ventilated seats, panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control and more.

Renault Duster hybrid prices

The Duster hybrid range is available in three trim levels

Renault Duster hybrid price list (Rs, lakh)

Trims

Prices (ex-showroom)

Evolution

16.99

Techno

18.99

Emotion

19.49

Renault is offering the Duster hybrid in three trims: Evolution, Techno and Emotion. These introductory prices apply to all deliveries until December 31, 2026, and R-Pass owners will get priority deliveries. Buyers can also opt for the Renault Protect 360 ownership package, priced from Rs 89,900, which bundles three years of comprehensive insurance, three years of scheduled maintenance and a three-year assured resale value.

Renault Duster hybrid powertrain and mileage

The E-Tech hybrid features a 1.4kWh battery pack and a multi-mode automatic transmission

Renault Duster hybrid engine

The Duster is based on Renault’s RGMP platform, which the brand says can accommodate petrol, hybrid and CNG powertrains. The hybrid is equipped with the brand’s ‘E-Tech 160’ system, which pairs a 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with two electric motors. The Atkinson-cycle engine makes 110hp and 175Nm, and Renault claims it is the biggest engine in the segment, with a thermal efficiency of up to 41 percent. A high-voltage starter-generator mounted on the engine handles engine starts, smooths out gearshifts and charges the battery, including through regenerative braking. A separate 50hp traction motor, connected directly to the driveline, drives the front wheels and produces 208Nm. The combined system output stands at 160hp, which Renault says is the highest in the segment.

Renault Duster Hybrid Drive Selector

The hybrid system runs on a 1.4kWh, 247V NMC battery pack with direct refrigerant cooling. Transmission duties are handled by what Renault calls a “multi-mode automatic” gearbox, with two electric gears and four petrol gears. The system switches automatically between six operating modes, including all-electric, petrol-only, and series and series-parallel hybrid. The French automaker claims the hybrid can manage up to 80 percent of city driving in pure electric mode, and a 0-100kph time of 9.61sec, which it says is the quickest in the segment. The Duster hybrid also gets frequency-dependent dampers.

The ARAI-certified mileage of the Renault Duster hybrid is 29kpl, which the brand says makes it the most fuel-efficient hybrid in India, ahead of rivals such as the Maruti Victoris hybrid, Maruti Grand Vitara hybrid and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder hybrid. Combined with a 50-litre fuel tank, Renault claims a total driving range of over 1,400km.

Renault Duster hybrid exterior design

Overall styling is largely similar to the turbo-petrol Duster

Renault Duster Hybrid Front Quarter

The Duster hybrid looks largely the same as the turbo-petrol versions, with chunky body cladding, C-pillar-mounted rear door handles, roof rails and eyebrow-style DRLs (daytime running lights). Up front, the signature grille gets an illuminated ‘Duster’ emblem, and full-LED headlamps are offered from the Techno trim onwards.

Renault Duster Hybrid Rear Quarter

The base Evolution trim rides on 18-inch flex wheels, while the top-spec Emotion gets 18-inch diamond-cut alloys. At the rear is an LED horizontal light bar, while there are ‘E-Tech’ badges on the front doors and the tailgate. The Duster hybrid’s ground clearance stands at 212mm.

Renault Duster hybrid interior and features

Feature highlights include a pano sunroof, ventilated seats and a 10.25-inch digital cluster

Renault Duster Hybrid Interior

The Duster hybrid’s cabin follows the general design of the turbo-petrol versions, with a dual-screen layout. The mid-spec Techno gets Desert Beige semi-leatherette upholstery, while the top-spec Emotion gets Dune Brown leatherette upholstery.

Standard features on the base Evolution trim include a 10.1-inch touchscreen, a 7-inch digital driver’s display and dual-zone automatic climate control. The Techno adds an electric panoramic sunroof, keyless entry with push-button start and connected car tech via the ‘MyRenault’ (MYR) app. The range-topping Emotion trim gets a larger 10.25-inch digital driver’s display, 6-way electrically adjustable and ventilated front seats, and a powered tailgate.

Renault Duster hybrid safety features

A wide array of safety tech is on offer

Renault claims that the Duster hybrid’s entry-level Evolution trim gets 38 safety features as standard. These come in the form of 6 airbags, hill-start assist, cruise control, rear parking sensors and a rearview camera.

Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG: CNG efficiency, petrol performance

Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG: CNG efficiency, petrol performance
Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG review

CNG is shaping up to be the new diesel. For the second year running, CNG passenger vehicles outsold diesels, accounting for 21.98 percent of the market compared to 18.08 percent for oil burners in FY2026. That is a very big deal. Big enough for Mahindra – traditionally a diesel-first brand – to sit up, take notice and want a piece of the action. Its first attempt – if you don’t count the fleet-only KUV100 CNG – is the Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG. Read as Zee-NG and pronounced Zing. The headline is that it makes the same amount of power as the pure-petrol 3XO TCMPFi. We experienced it in Mumbai to see if it really has zing.

Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG Exterior Design and Engineering – 7/10

Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG

Outside, there isn’t much to tell the ZNG apart from the regular XUV 3XO. Our test car is based on the REVX trim and gets a body-coloured grille, while other trims gloss black. LED lighting is present, though fog lamps are missing even on the top REVX A CNG trim. 

Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG
ZNG badge on the tailgate is the only exterior telltale of the CNG powertrain.

In profile, you’ll notice the gloss black 16-inch wheels – the largest size available on the ZNG, with 17s reserved for the pure-petrol TGDi. At the rear is the clearest giveaway of its CNG powertrain: a ZNG badge on the tailgate.

XUV 3XO ZNG Interior Space and Comfort – 8/10

Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG

Inside, too, the ZNG is largely identical to its petrol and diesel counterparts, with a CNG switch to the right of the steering wheel being the only real giveaway. The dual-tone dashboard with lots of gloss black trim is otherwise carried over unchanged. Despite not being the top of the line variant, the cabin has an upmarket and well-trimmed air to it. 

Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG

Our REVX A test car gets black leatherette seats, which can get quite hot, and they lack ventilation, just like the regular 3XO. The front seats are also a bit tight for larger frames, and the lack of a telescoping steering makes it hard to get comfy. Another ergonomic gripe is the tight driver’s footwell, with no dead pedal – pertinent as a six-speed manual is your only gearbox option.

Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG

The rear seat remains spacious and comfortable for its segment, and accommodating three abreast is not an issue. One area where the 3XO fell short was boot space, measuring just 295 litres – the smallest in the segment. To keep as much of the boot intact as possible, Mahindra has moved the space-saver spare under the body and placed a dual-tank setup under the boot floor. The combined liquid capacity of the tanks is 60 litres, which translates to 10kg of CNG capacity. 

Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG

Boot capacity has dropped to 270 litres, which is smallest amongst immediate rivals, however it remains fairly wide and can accommodate up to four cabin bags.

Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG Features and Safety – 8/10

The 3XO ZNG is available in four trims, which offer the same features as their petrol and diesel counterparts. The highlights are a pair of sharp 10.25-inch screens for infotainment and instrumentation, a panoramic sunroof and a six-speaker audio system with Dolby Atmos. 

Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG

The digital instrument cluster has a few more CNG-related functions. Hit the CNG switch, and an indicator on the digital instrument cluster confirms the fuel you are using, while the fuel gauge changes to display the fuel level. The cluster can also show the ratio of time spent in each fuel mode and the corresponding fuel efficiency.

Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG

As such, the 3XO ZNG is reasonably well equipped compared to equivalent variants of its main rival, the Tata Nexon iCNG. However, the Nexon offers a wider choice of CNG variants, with top-spec versions getting features such as a 360-degree camera, ventilated front seats and a wireless charger, all of which the Mahindra misses out on.

The safety kit is quite comprehensive, featuring six airbags, ESC, ISOFIX mounts, a tyre pressure monitoring system and a reversing camera. The regular XUV 3XO is also a five-star Bharat NCAP safety-rated car, and Mahindra says the ZNG has been engineered to meet the same standards.

Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG Performance and Refinement – 8/10

Powering the ZNG is the same 1.2-litre multi-point fuel injection (MPFi) turbo-petrol engine that does duty on the lower and mid-level trims of the 3XO. The kicker is that Mahindra quotes the exact same power and torque figures for CNG as for the pure-petrol version – 111hp and 200Nm. That is highly unusual, as a 10 to 15 percent drop in power figures is the norm. For comparison, its direct rival, the Tata Nexon iCNG, loses 20hp when switching from petrol to CNG. Mahindra says it has managed this with the use of a 10-bar CNG injection system. It also says the turbocharger and ECU calibration have been optimised to run on CNG, and initial impressions seem to back this up.

Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG
1.2-litre TCMPFI engine uses a 10-bar CNG injection system; Mahindra claims identical 111hp and 200Nm figures for petrol and CNG.

In everyday driving, the difference between CNG and petrol modes is barely noticeable. The engine feels smooth and refined in both, only becoming audible when extended. Performance, too, is very similar. Throttle response is good and the motor feels tractable, rarely requiring a shift into first when negotiating a speed breaker. There is a bit of turbo lag below 2,000rpm, but get past this and performance feels brisk.

The switch between modes is also quite seamless, with no apparent jerkiness or change in engine note. However, switch back and forth a few times, and you’ll notice the throttle response is ever so slightly duller in CNG mode, and there are times when it will hesitate on sudden throttle inputs. Overall, though, calibration in CNG mode is very good, and in everyday driving, there is very little to fault.

Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG
Performance feels brisk once you get past 2000rpm.

While the pure-petrol version of this engine can be had with a six-speed torque-converter automatic, the ZNG is only available with the six-speed manual. While its immediate rivals don’t offer an automatic with CNG either, Mahindra would have done well to offer at least an AMT. As it is, the manual is a smooth and easy-to-use unit, but not quite at the level of its Japanese or Korean competition. Its throws are a bit too long, and the clutch, while light, has a long travel.

In terms of outright performance, Mahindra claims an 11.8sec 0-100kph time for the ZNG. We conducted a quick performance test (not to Autocar India standards), which resulted in a 0-100kph time of 12.98s on petrol and 12.64s on CNG – a difference we put down to the launch. In-gear acceleration figures paint a clearer picture, where the ZNG was quicker in petrol mode by about 0.7 seconds in both 20-80kph and 40-100kph runs. Nevertheless, performance in either CNG or petrol is so close that most drivers would be hard-pressed to tell the difference.

Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG Mileage and Efficiency – 8/10

Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG

Mahindra claims an efficiency figure of 24.7km/kg for the XUV 3XO ZNG, which translates to a theoretical range of 247km from its 10kg CNG capacity. 

Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG
CNG filler neatly positioned beside the fuel filler; fuel filler door still has a manual release in the cabin.

It also gets an idle-stop/start function, which should help efficiency. We will verify these claims with a real-world test soon.

Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG Ride Comfort and Handling – 9/10

Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG
Light steering works well in town; steering modes dial up resistance but don’t offer better feel.

The switch to CNG adds around 100kg to the 3XO, most of it concentrated at the rear. To ensure this doesn’t affect ride or handling, Mahindra has tweaked the suspension to cope with the extra weight. The ZNG’s ride has a slightly firm edge, but overall it deals with bad roads very well.

Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG
16-inch wheels and tall tyres are better at absorbing sharper bumps than the 17s on higher petrol trims.

The smaller 16-inch wheels also play an important part here, as their taller-sidewall tyres absorb sharp edges before they make their way to the cabin. Overall, the ride remains amongst the best in the class.

Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG

Handling, too, remains tight and engaging, with a planted feel around the bends. The steering is light and direct, and while you can dial up the resistance using the three steering modes, this adds little in terms of feel or feedback.

Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG Value for Money – 8/10

Overall, the Mahindra XUV 3XO offers good value for money and makes for a compelling entrant into the CNG compact SUV space. Prices for the Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG start at Rs 9.99 lakh and go up to Rs 12.27 lakh, which is between Rs 1 lakh and Rs 1.2 lakh more than the equivalent petrol trims. Pricing is on par with comparable variants of the Tata Nexon iCNG. However, the Nexon has a wider range and also offers more features on the higher trims.

Mahindra has packaged the CNG tanks cleverly, minimising the impact on boot space. That said, the 3XO’s boot wasn’t particularly large to begin with, and that remains a drawback. What sets it apart is the driving experience. CNG calibration is very good, and performance in CNG mode is close enough to petrol for most people not to notice a real difference. For a first attempt, the XUV 3XO ZNG certainly ticks a lot of boxes.

MG Windsor long term review, 17,500km report

MG Windsor long term review, 17,500km report
MG Windsor EV front quarter static

The MG Windsor EV is convenience Pro Max. You walk up to it, the doors unlock on their own, you slide into the driver’s seat, select ‘D’ on the gear-selector stalk, and pull away. Quick, simple, easy, and super convenient.

Over the weeks and months we’ve had the car, I’ve even found it to be well suited to our traffic, especially when the need to overtake quickly arises. The electric motor makes a healthy 200Nm of torque, and with near-instant responses, overtaking becomes almost therapeutic.

Overtaking slower cars is a breeze due to the strong and linear torque delivery

Squeeze down on the accelerator and a wave of torque helps you breeze past the car ahead. What’s nice is that the e-motor doesn’t overreact or deliver a massive spike of torque the moment you touch the pedal, it’s well metered and measured, and that makes all the difference. So, the Windsor feels surprisingly swift and fleet-footed; just what the doctor ordered for our fluid traffic, where gaps and opportunities open and close quickly.

Strong brakes blend regenerative and friction braking quite seamlessly.

I even really like the strong brakes, especially how well they blend initial regeneration and later stronger action via the discs. Even the steering is light, direct and well-suited to urban use. Put all these factors together, and you can see why I found myself setting off to run a lot more errands in this car, with even long intra-city commutes handled with ease; podcasts on the clear audio system keeping me company.

What I’ve often found, however, especially when driving on a low battery, is that Eco mode is not as well calibrated. The responses are quite severely dulled down, and that means you need to keep using more and more throttle to get a move on. I soon switched back to Normal, almost every single time.

Where the Windsor also did well was that despite being a monovolume, the design has wide appeal. Sure, it has an unconventional profile, an unconventional cab-forward stance and an unconventional seating position. But the design works so well, first impressions from passengers are overwhelmingly positive. Many passengers commented on its modern looks and the spacious feeling in the rear. And doesn’t the stepped nose up front, with its chrome embellishments, work well?

MPV profile nicely packaged with modern details and look.

The MG Windsor, however, also has its fair share of issues and irritants. For one, insulation is very poor. It’s tolerable at lower city speeds, but past 70 or 80kph, road noise gets so prevalent, you start looking around for a commercial vehicle overtaking you. There is none. Then there’s the fact that the ride often gets brittle and unsettled, and go faster, such as on the Coastal Road in Mumbai, and stability at speed is also nowhere near as good as it should be. Some of this is down to the Windsor’s raised ride height and tall stance. But hey.

Over the time we’ve had the car, I’ve also come across a litany of questionable details in the cabin. To begin with, the seats have diamond-quilted covers that prod you in the back and feel unnecessarily ‘textured’. Then a lot of the plastics feel low-rent and cheap, especially the faux wood and the top of the dash. This includes some of the toggle switches used for the aircon and, especially, the gear selector stalk. Then there’s the fact that the screen is a size too large and in your face, and the left bottom of the windscreen is obscured by it; especially irritating when you are parking in a tight place.

Even important functions like adjustments of the mirrors are on the screen

Then, of course, almost everything is controlled from the screen. This includes adjustment of mirrors, drive modes and regenerative braking, among others. So, often, you find yourself stopped on the side of the road, diving into a menu. And more often than not, the said feature is difficult to find. Too much of a good thing here, for sure. It’s only right that buttons are coming back.

Then there’s the fact that while the fonts on the massive screen are huge, those on the digital ‘instrument panel’ are tiny and often difficult to read in a moving car. There’s also no spare tyre, only a puncture kit, of no use if you get a sidewall cut, and this version of the car gets no parcel tray; annoying if you have to leave a bag or luggage.

No spare or space to keep one; all you get is a puncture repair kit.

What of the battery and the range? The 37.9 kWh battery, charged for the most part at our office in Byculla, Mumbai, indicates a 100 percent battery range of around 320kms and has been delivering an average of around 6.5 kilometers per kW. So yes, while the MG Windsor is a lot of EV for the money and offers plenty of convenience, space and comfort, MG has a long to-do list for the facelift.

MG Windsor test data

Odometer17,500km
PriceRs 16.99 lakh (ex-showroom, India)
Economy6.5km/kWh (this month)
Maintenance costNone
FaultsNone
Previous reportJanuary 2026, March 2026,
July 2026

New Audi Q3 vs old: Differences and similarities explained

New Audi Q3 vs old: Differences and similarities explained
Audi Q3 new vs old

The third generation of Audi’s entry-level SUV, the Q3, has been launched in India. It replaces the second-gen Q3, which went on sale here back in 2022, and is built on the newer MQB Evo platform. As a result, the new Q3 is much more advanced on the tech front and brings design overhauls, both inside and out. It is priced at Rs 51.99 lakh, ex-showroom. That’s an increase of Rs 8.32 lakh over the previous Q3. We compare the new Q3 to its predecessor to find out all that’s changed. 

Audi Q3 new vs old: Exterior design

new audi q3
old audi q3
 

Visually, the differences between the two Q3 generations are immediately apparent. Where the old Q3 featured a clean and understated design, the new one is much more aggressive in look. Stretching the tape at 4,531mm long, 1,859mm wide, and 1,623mm high, with a 2,681mm wheelbase, the third-gen Q3 is also larger than its predecessor in every dimension. 

new audi q3 front
old audi q3 front
 

Up front, the old Q3 came with sharp-looking single-piece headlamps, while the new model sports a split-headlamp setup – sleek pixel-style DRLs up top and Matrix LED lights below. The grille of the new Q3 is wider, lacks vertical bars and a chrome surround and bears a 2D Audi emblem instead of the 3D one seen on its predecessor. Lower down, both Q3s have a subtle silver skidplate, but the third-gen model has a larger air dam with a honeycomb-patterned cover.

new audi q3 rear
old audi q3 rear
 

The side profile of the new Q3 has a fresh set of 18-inch alloy wheels, more sculpted panelling, more prominently flared wheel arches, and some black trim pieces above the D-pillars to create a ‘floating roof’ effect. Like the front, the rear end of the new Q3 ditches its predecessor’s single-piece lights in favour of a split setup that’s connected by an LED strip, and the Audi logo is illuminated too. The rear bumper of the new model is also more sculpted and houses a pair of faux air exits and a beefier silver skidplate.

Audi Q3 new vs old: Interior and features

new audi q3 interior
old audi q3 interior
 

Inside, the third-gen Q3 marks a tremendous departure from the outgoing model. The dashboard of the new Q3 has a neater and more layered design, with a new four-spoke flat-bottomed steering wheel instead of the old rounded three-spoke one. Atop the dash sits a duo of curved displays, specifically an 11.9-inch digital driver’s display and a 12.8-inch infotainment touchscreen – both larger than the ones in the old Q3.

The central air vents have been repositioned to the centre console in the new Q3, and there are much fewer physical controls in the cabin compared to the prior model. Lower down, the gear lever of the old Q3 has been done away with in the new model – the function is now controlled via a stalk behind the steering wheel. As a result, the transmission tunnel is more uncluttered in look in the third-gen Q3, though its gloss-black finish would be a bit more difficult to keep clean.

new audi q3 boot space
old audi q3 boot space
 

Coming to creature comforts, the new Q3 bests its predecessor with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a heads-up display, heated front seats, a 12-speaker Sonos sound system, nine airbags, adaptive cruise control and more. Elsewhere, features like dual-zone climate control, ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof, powered front seats, a wireless charging pad, among others, are common between the two Q3 generations. Boot space, however, is where the third-gen Q3 is down on the prior model – 488 litres vs 530 litres. 

Audi Q3 new vs old: Engine and gearbox

new audi q3 driving
old audi q3 driving
 

Under the bonnet, the third-gen Q3 retains its predecessor’s 2.0-litre four-cylinder direct-injection turbo-petrol engine, but with an uprated output of 204hp and 320Nm – up 14hp over the old Q3. A 7-speed dual-clutch automatic and Audi’s Quattro all-wheel drive are also standard fit on both Q3s, but at 7.1 seconds, the third-gen model’s 0-100kph time is quicker by 0.2sec. The new Q3’s 229kph top speed is also 7kph higher than that of the outgoing model.

2026 Audi Q3 launched in India at Rs 51.99 lakh

2026 Audi Q3 launched in India at Rs 51.99 lakh
2026 Audi Q3 launched in India

Audi has launched the 2026 Q3 in India at Rs 51.99 lakh (ex-showroom). This is the third-generation entry-level luxury SUV in India, which is being offered in two trims: Nova and Zenith, and the latter’s price is yet to be revealed. It sports extensive design changes inside and outside, additional features and a turbo-petrol engine option only. The 2026 Audi Q3 is being assembled at the manufacturer’s Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar plant in Maharashtra, and its deliveries are also underway. 

  1. Only luxury car in its segment with an AWD setup
  2. Features split-style headlights and 18-inch alloy wheels
  3. Gets dual digital screens, panoramic sunroof, 3-zone AC

2026 Audi Q3 exterior design

Gets split-style headlights, taillights and 18-inch alloy wheels

Being a generation update, the 2026 Audi Q3 comes with a thoroughly redesigned exterior. It gets split-style headlights, with LED DRLs at the top and the main digital Matrix LED headlights on the bumper with dedicated washers. The LED DRLs and headlights feature lighting signatures, and in fact the latter can even project important ADAS information on the road in the driver’s direct field of vision for improved safety. It also gets a large grille with honeycomb mesh elements and similar air intakes on the lower section of the bumper. 

In profile, the Q3 features 18-inch alloy wheels as standard with self-centring hubcaps. It also gets a chrome windowline, slim roof rails and slightly flared wheel arches. 

At the rear, it features split LED taillights; the lower unit is connected by a thin strip of light bar. The Audi logo at the rear is illuminated. Audi is also offering a roof-mounted spoiler and a rear wiper and washer.

Here are the dimensions and other specifications of the 2026 Audi Q3:

2026 Audi Q3 dimensions and other specifications

Length

4,531mm

Width

1,859mm

Height

1,601mm

Wheelbase

2,681mm

Boot space

488 litres

2026 Audi Q3 interior design and features

Gets a hexagonal steering wheel, curved displays and a decently equipped cabin

Inside, the Audi Q3 has a minimalistic dashboard and features dual digital screens (a 12.8-inch infotainment touchscreen and an 11.9-inch digital driver’s display) arranged in a curved setup. It also gets a 4-spoke hexagonal steering wheel with touch-enabled controls. Notably, the right-side stalk on the steering wheel works as a drive selector, while the left one can be used to control the headlights and turn indicators.

The drive selector on the steering column has enabled a cleaner centre console, featuring a wireless phone charger, two cupholders, and an electronic parking brake. The centre console extends to a centre armrest for front passengers. The seats get leatherette upholstery, and the front seats are powered and heated. The driver’s seat has a memory function that is also tied to the powered outside rearview mirrors (ORVMs). 

On the feature front, it is equipped with a 3-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, a 12-speaker Sonos sound system, a coloured head-up display (HUD), and a powered tailgate. Safety-wise, it gets 9 airbags, a rear parking camera (not a 360-degree surround-view system), hill hold and hill climb assists, and an advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) suite. 

2026 Audi Q3 powertrain

Gets a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine and an AWD setup 

The 2026 Audi Q3 is powered by a 2.0-litre direct-injection turbo-petrol engine that produces 204hp and 320Nm. It is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (AT) which sends power to all wheels (AWD). This powertrain enables a claimed 0-100kph sprint of 7.1 seconds and a top speed of 229kph.

The Audi Q3 is the only rival in the segment to offer AWD. Rivals like the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA are front-wheel-drive (FWD) only. 

What to expect from the new Audi Q3 ahead of launch tomorrow

What to expect from the new Audi Q3 ahead of launch tomorrow
New Audi Q3 front tracking

Audi is all set to launch the new Q3 in India on October 16, 2026. The third-generation model is the German luxury marque’s entry-level SUV for India, and its first model for our market as part of its new product offensive. The upcoming Audi Q3 sports a completely new design both inside and out, an updated feature set and a single turbo-petrol powertrain. Here’s a closer look at what to expect from this compact luxury SUV.

1. What does the new Audi Q3 look like?

Now gets split headlamps, Digital Matrix LEDs, an updated grille and more

new Audi Q3 front quarter

The third-gen Audi Q3 has ditched the conventional placement for the headlamps. Instead, it sports a split arrangement with the new Digital Matrix LED units located in the bumper and slim LED DRLs placed above them. The former houses 25,600 individually controlled pixels, while the latter double up as turn indicators and offer four light signatures. The wide honeycomb grille of the Q3 now gets the brand’s new 2D logo with an integrated radar for the ADAS suite.

new Audi Q3 rear quarter tracking

Design highlights along the sides include the 18-inch alloy wheels with self-levelling centre caps, silver roof rails and shiny trim stretching between the A pillar and the roof. The rear of the new Q3 features split LED tail-lamps connected by a sleek light bar, an illuminated Audi logo on the tailgate, and a silver skid plate in the bumper. The new Q3 looks bigger than the outgoing model, though its 2,681mm wheelbase is unchanged.

2. How is the interior of the new Audi Q3?

A spacious boot, solid build, curved displays and a new gear selector are some of the highlights

new Audi Q3 interior

The boot of the new Audi Q3 has a capacity of 488 litres, which can be further expanded by folding down the 40:20:40 rear seats. There’s also a space-saver spare under the boot floor. This is a modern-looking interior, sporting an angled dashboard and centre console, curved digital displays and a hexagonal steering wheel. Meanwhile, placed on the steering column is the new stalk-type gear selector.

new Audi Q3 rear seats

Leather upholstery aside, this interior also gets fabric and wood trim. There are hard plastics lower down in the cabin, but the overall build quality is impressive. The front seats are well-bolstered and will be comfortable even on long drives, but the rear ones are best reserved for two adults. Conveniences at the back include a fold-down armrest with cupholders, two USB-C outlets, seat-back pockets and rear AC vents.

3. What features does the new Audi Q3 offer?

Headline tech includes a 12-speaker Sonos audio system, panoramic sunroof, head-up display and 9 airbags

new Audi Q3 dashboard

The new Audi Q3 offers a range of conveniences and tech – including a powered tailgate, multi-zone automatic climate control, powered & heated front seats with memory, and a 12-speaker Sonos audio system. There’s also a panoramic sunroof, a 12.8-inch touch-infotainment system, and an 11.9-inch digital driver’s display.

new Audi Q3 ADAS

Rounding off the tech features of the Audi Q3 are 9 airbags, an auto-park function, and ADAS (advanced driver assistance systems) with adaptive cruise control and auto-emergency braking. Surprisingly, the new Q3 doesn’t get lane-keep assist, a 360-degree camera, or even ventilated seats.

4. What engine and gearbox does the new Audi Q3 get?

The new Q3 will only be offered with a 204hp turbo-petrol engine and quattro all-wheel drive

new Audi Q3 side tracking

Under the bonnet of the new Audi Q3 is a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine with direct injection, rated at 204hp and 320Nm. Mated to this TFSI mill is a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox with paddle shifters, while drive is sent to all four wheels via Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system.

There are multiple drive modes as well, including an ‘off-road’ setting. Audi claims a 0-100kph time of 7.1 seconds for the new Q3. However, there will be no diesel, hybrid or fully electric powertrains at launch.

5. What is the expected price of the new Audi Q3?

The new model is to be pricier than the outgoing Q3

new Audi Q3 front quarter tracking

The new Audi Q3 is expected to come at a premium over the outgoing model, which is priced between Rs 43.67 lakh and Rs 53 lakh (ex-showroom). The closest rivals of the Q3 will include the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA.

2026 Toyota Glanza facelift: 4 hits and 3 misses

2026 Toyota Glanza facelift: 4 hits and 3 misses
Toyota Glanza facelift: 4 hits and 4 misses

The 2026 Toyota Glanza facelift was launched in October, and it gets new powertrain options, additional features and minor design changes. However, it also misses out on a few things. Here, we look at what the updated Toyota hatchback gets right and where there is room for improvement.

Hits

More efficient powertrain

The Glanza now gets a new 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder naturally aspirated engine that runs on petrol and CNG. Compared to the previous four-cylinder engine, claimed fuel efficiency in petrol mode has improved to 23.80kpl with the manual transmission, up from 22.35kpl, and 24.77kpl with the AMT, up from 22.94kpl.

2026 Toyota Glanza facelift launched at Rs 6.99 lakh

In CNG mode, the claimed mileage has increased to 33.61km/kg with the manual gearbox, up from 30.61km/kg. The new AMT option for the Glanza CNG has a claimed mileage of 34.47km/kg.

Automatic gearbox choice with CNG

With the Glanza facelift, Toyota has introduced the choice of an automatic gearbox, an AMT in this case. Buyers who regularly commute in stop-and-go traffic will appreciate the ease of driving, along with the good fuel efficiency claimed by the carmaker.

New convenience and safety features

Given our climate, ventilated front seats are a welcome addition. The new Level 2 ADAS suite should also improve the Glanza’s safety quotient.

While we haven’t reviewed the new Glanza yet, our experience with the Baleno facelift gives us a reference point. During our brief test drive, the ADAS features worked as intended and felt well calibrated, without being overly intrusive. A wireless charger with ventilation has been added as well.

Continues to offer physical controls

2026 Toyota Glanza facelift launched at Rs 6.99 lakh

Like the outgoing model, the facelifted Glanza continues to offer plenty of physical controls for functions such as climate control and audio. These are easier to use and less distracting than accessing functions buried under multiple sub-menus on the touchscreen.

Misses

Priced comparatively higher than Baleno

Glanza vs Baleno petrol prices (Rs lakh)

Glanza petrol trimPriceBaleno petrol trimPricePrice difference
E MT6.99Sigma MT5.99-1
S MT | AMT7.71 | 8.31Delta MT | AMT7 | 7.5-0.71 | -0.81
G MT | AMT8.73 | 9.33Zeta MT | AMT8 | 8.5-0.73 | -0.83
V MT | AMT9.99 | 10.59Alpha MT | AMT9.1 | 9.6-0.89 | -0.99
V(O) MT | AMT10.49 | 10.98Alpha (O) MT | AMT9.5 | 9.99-0.99

Glanza vs Baleno CNG prices (Rs lakh)

Glanza CNG trimPriceBaleno CNG trimPricePrice difference
S MT | AMT8.76 | 9.31Delta MT | AMT7.92 | 8.32-0.84 | -0.99
G MT | AMT9.68 | 10.23Zeta MT | AMT8.92 | 9.32-0.76 | -0.91

The Glanza is pricier than the Baleno across comparable petrol variants, with the price difference ranging from Rs 71,000 to Rs 1 lakh. The gap is similar for the CNG versions, with the Toyota hatchback costing between Rs 76,000 to Rs 99,000 relatively more. Since the changes between the two are largely cosmetic, the price difference seems significant.

New engine makes relatively less power and torque

In petrol mode, the new engine produces 83hp and 112Nm, which is 7hp and 1Nm less than the outgoing model’s four-cylinder unit. In CNG mode, it produces 70hp and 102Nm. This is 7hp less but 4.5Nm more than the outgoing model. Based on our experience with the Baleno, which uses the same powertrains, the new engine doesn’t feel as peppy as the older K-Series unit or as strong at higher revs.

Misses out on some features offered by rivals

New Glanza rear seats

A rear centre armrest would have improved passenger comfort in a premium hatchback like the Glanza, and a single-pane sunroof would also have added to its appeal. Both features are available on its direct rivals, the Tata Altroz and Hyundai i20.

2026 Toyota Glanza facelift image gallery

2026 Toyota Glanza facelift image gallery
Glanza

The Toyota Glanza facelift gets a revised front grille with satin-finish detailing and updated LED fog lamps, while the side and rear designs remain unchanged. It continues with 16-inch alloy wheels, a dual-tone dashboard, a touchscreen infotainment system and an analogue instrument cluster with a digital display. New features include ventilated front seats and a wireless phone charger. The Glanza now uses a 1.2-litre, three-cylinder petrol engine, replacing the previous model’s four-cylinder unit. It is offered with a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed automated manual (AMT), alongside a CNG option. The 2026 Toyota Glanza is priced from Rs 6.99 lakh to Rs 10.98 lakh.

Toyota Glanza new vs old: Differences and similarities explained

Toyota Glanza new vs old: Differences and similarities explained
Toyota Glanza Old vs New comparison

The Toyota Glanza has received a major update, following the same for the Maruti Baleno. This one brings some cosmetic revisions, an entirely different engine under the bonnet, a longer equipment list and a new top-spec trim level. Depending on the variant, prices now range between Rs 6.99 lakh and Rs 10.98 lakh (ex-showroom). That’s an increase of about Rs 26,000 to Rs 1 lakh over the old Glanza. Rivals include the Maruti Baleno, Hyundai i20 and Tata Altroz. Here’s a closer look at what’s changed and what’s been carried over.

Toyota Glanza new vs old: Exterior design

A new front fascia and a couple of different colour options do it for the exterior

New Toyota Glanza front bumper
Old Toyota Glanza front bumper
 

Most of the changes with this update are to be found at the front. The front fascia of the new Glanza looks more aggressive than the old model, with a taller middle section that integrates the upper grille and lower intake into a single-piece design. The intakes are larger and the Toyota logo now sits higher, just aft of the chrome strip connecting the headlamps.

New Toyota Glanza front quarter
Old Toyota Glanza front quarter
 

The headlamps have been carried over from the old Glanza, whilst the redesigned front bumper gets rectangular fog lamps in place of the old model’s circular units. The Glanza now gets side skirts and a sharkfin antenna, but the design of its 16-inch alloy wheels and the chrome strip beneath the windowline are carry-over from the old model.

New Toyota Glanza rear quarter
Old Toyota Glanza rear quarter
 

There are no changes made to the rear of the updated Glanza. This means that it retains the old model’s tail-lamps with their C-shaped elements, the roof spoiler and the wiper & washer setup. Along with the colours offered earlier, the Toyota Glanza facelift adds Digital Teal Green and Bluish Black to the list as well. 

Toyota Glanza new vs old: Interior design and features

The 2026 update adds more features, but lower trims now lose out on auto AC

The overall design and layout of the cabin haven’t changed with this update, and the dual-tone dashboard and seats are carried over. However, the V and the new top-spec V (O) trims now get leatherette upholstery, with the front row featuring seat ventilation. 

The two high-end trims also get a new premium audio system by Clarion, whilst the earlier Arkamys setup moves to the mid-spec G. The G also gets a 9-inch touchscreen in place of the old 7-inch screen, while the lower-spec S gets a 7-inch unit. The S also offers a sliding front armrest, rear AC vents, and Type-A and Type-C ports. However, the lower trims now lose out on automatic AC.

New Toyota Glanza interior
Old Toyota Glanza interior
 

Other noteworthy additions include a wireless charger with active cooling (G trim and above) and a tyre-pressure monitoring system (TPMS) on all but the entry-level E. Standard kit includes 6 airbags, electronic stability control, hill-hold assist and ISOFIX anchors.

Level 2 ADAS (advanced driver assistance systems) is new, but is limited to the top-spec V (O). It brings adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, lane-departure warning and high-beam assist. As with the old Glanza, the head-up display and 360-degree camera are reserved for the V trims.

Toyota Glanza new vs old: Engine and transmission

A three-cylinder engine replaces the old four-cylinder unit

New Toyota Glanza wheels
Old Toyota Glanza wheels
 

The old Toyota Glanza was powered by a 1.2-litre four-cylinder K-series petrol engine that produced 90hp and 113Nm of torque. With this update, the Glanza switches to the 1.2-litre three-cylinder Z-series engine that also powers the updated Maruti Baleno. This new unit puts out 83hp and 112Nm of torque, representing a loss of 7hp and 1Nm over the old model. The 5-speed manual and 5-speed AMT (automated manual transmission) have been carried over.

The claimed mileage has gone up from 22.35kpl to 23.80kpl for the manual and 22.94kpl to 24.77kpl for the AMT. While the old Glanza had automatic engine stop-start as standard only with the petrol versions, the updated model gains the fuel-saving tech for the CNG versions too. The new AMT variant of the Glanza CNG is rated at 34.47km/kg, with the manual’s claimed mileage going up from 30.61km/kg to 33.61km/kg.

In terms of output, the updated Glanza CNG sees power dropping from 77hp to 70hp, though the torque figure has gone up from 98.5Nm to 102Nm. Finally, the 2026 Toyota Glanza weighs up to 30kg more than the old model it replaces.

2026 Toyota Glanza vs rivals: Price, specifications compared

2026 Toyota Glanza vs rivals: Price, specifications compared
Glanza vs rivals

The Toyota Glanza is a premium hatchback that shares its underpinnings and powertrain with the Maruti Suzuki Baleno. The 2026 update brings changes to its styling and features, along with a CNG-AMT option. We compare it with the Baleno, Hyundai i20 and Tata Altroz in terms of specifications, features and prices.

2026 Toyota Glanza vs rivals: Dimensions

The i20 has the longest wheelbase, while the Altroz has the largest boot

DimensionsToyota GlanzaMaruti Suzuki BalenoHyundai i20Tata Altroz
Length3,990mm3,990mm3,995mm3,990mm
Width1,745mm1,745mm1,775mm1,755mm
Height1,530mm1,530mm1,505mm1,523mm
Wheelbase2,520mm2,520mm2,580mm2,501mm
Boot spaceTBA318 litres311 litres345 litres

The Glanza and Baleno share the same length, width, height and wheelbase. The i20 is marginally longer than the other three and has the greatest width and wheelbase. The Altroz offers the largest boot capacity at 345 litres, ahead of the Baleno’s 318 litres and the i20’s 311 litres. Toyota has yet to confirm the facelifted Glanza’s boot capacity, although its badge-engineered relationship with the Baleno suggests the two could have similar luggage space.

2026 Toyota Glanza vs rivals: Engine specifications

The Glanza gets petrol and CNG options, with manual and AMT gearboxes

Engine specificationsToyota GlanzaMaruti Suzuki BalenoHyundai i20Tata Altroz
Petrol engine1.2-litre, 3-cylinder1.2-litre, 3-cylinder1.2-litre, 4-cylinder1.2-litre, 3-cylinder
Petrol power83hp83hp83hp (MT); 88hp (IVT)88hp
Petrol torque112Nm112Nm114.7Nm115Nm
CNG optionYesYesNoYes
CNG power70hp70hp–74hp
CNG torque102Nm102Nm–103Nm
Diesel optionNoNoNoYes
Transmission options5-speed MT, 5-speed AMT5-speed MT, 5-speed AMT5-speed MT, IVT5-speed MT, 5-speed AMT, 6-speed DCT

The Glanza’s new 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine produces 83hp and 112Nm in petrol mode, down 7hp and 1Nm compared with the outgoing four-cylinder unit. Claimed fuel efficiency stands at 23.80kpl with the manual and 24.77kpl with the AMT. In CNG mode, output drops to 70hp and 102Nm, with claimed efficiency of 33.61km/kg for the manual and 34.47km/kg for the AMT.

Like the Glanza, the Baleno offers petrol and CNG powertrains with manual and AMT options. The i20 is petrol-only, while the Altroz offers petrol, CNG and diesel engines. The Altroz is also the only one of these four to offer a diesel engine, while the Glanza and Baleno now add the convenience of an AMT with CNG.

2026 Toyota Glanza vs rivals: Features

Glanza adds ventilated seats and Level 2 ADAS, while the i20 and Altroz get sunroofs

FeaturesToyota GlanzaMaruti Suzuki BalenoHyundai i20Tata Altroz
Head-up displayYesYesNoNo
Ventilated front seatsYesYesNoNo
360-degree cameraYesYesNoYes
Wireless phone chargerYes, with coolingYes, with coolingYesYes
SunroofNoNoYesYes
Infotainment touchscreen9-inch9-inch10.25-inch10.25-inch
Instrument clusterAnalogue dials with MIDAnalogue dials with MIDTFT display10.25-inch digital
Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlayYesYesYesYes
Automatic climate controlYesYesYesYes
Rear AC ventsYesYesYesYes
Adaptive cruise controlYesYesNoNo

The Glanza and Baleno share several key features, including a head-up display, ventilated front seats, a 360-degree camera and a cooled wireless charger. Both also use a 9-inch touchscreen and analogue instrument dials with a multi-information display. 

The i20 and Altroz offer larger 10.25-inch infotainment screens and sunroofs, which the Glanza and Baleno do not get. The Altroz also has a fully digital instrument cluster. All four offer automatic climate control, rear AC vents and wireless smartphone connectivity.

2026 Toyota Glanza vs rivals: Safety

Glanza and Baleno get Level 2 ADAS

Safety featuresToyota GlanzaMaruti Suzuki BalenoHyundai i20Tata Altroz
Level 2 ADASYesYesNoNo
Airbags6666
Tyre-pressure monitoring systemYesYesYesYes
Electronic stability controlYesYesYesYes
Hill-hold assistYesYesYesYes
ABS with EBDYesYesYesYes
ISOFIX child-seat mountsYesYesYesYes

The Glanza facelift adds Level 2 ADAS, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, lane-departure warning and prevention, autonomous emergency braking and high-beam assist. It also gets a tyre-pressure monitoring system. The Baleno offers Level 2 ADAS as well, while all four hatchbacks have six airbags, electronic stability control, hill-hold assist, ABS with EBD and ISOFIX child-seat mounts.

2026 Toyota Glanza vs rivals: Price

Glanza prices range from Rs 6.99 lakh to Rs 10.98 lakh

Price (ex-showroom)Toyota GlanzaMaruti Suzuki BalenoHyundai i20Tata Altroz
Price rangeRs 6.99 lakh-10.98 lakhRs 5.99 lakh-9.99 lakhRs 6 lakh-11.64 lakh*Rs 6.30 lakh-10.75 lakh

The Baleno has the lowest starting price at Rs 5.99 lakh, making it Rs 1 lakh cheaper than the Glanza. The Altroz starts at Rs 6.30 lakh, while the i20’s entry price is Rs 6 lakh. At the top end, the i20 is the most expensive at Rs 11.64 lakh with the N-line trim, followed by the Glanza at Rs 10.98 lakh. The Altroz tops out at Rs 10.75 lakh, while the Baleno has the lowest top-spec price at Rs 9.99 lakh. The Glanza’s higher starting and top-end prices place it above its badge-engineered sibling, the Baleno, across the range.