India's ethanol programme has created a new demand from sugarcane farmers in Karnataka: let small jaggery units make ethanol too. The State Sugarcane Growers' Association says the financial benefit from ethanol should not remain concentrated with large sugar mills and distilleries. It wants local jaggery units to be given the technology and regulatory permission to produce ethanol, with association president Kurubur Shanthakumar even suggesting local use as cooking fuel and in farm vehicles.

The demand is significant because ethanol has become a valuable second revenue stream for the sugar industry. It is also arriving at an awkward time. Sugar prices have risen sharply, India has opened a duty-free import window for 1 million tonnes of raw sugar, and the government is simultaneously trying to protect supplies while maintaining the E20 petrol programme.

Why Farmers Want A Piece Of The Ethanol Business

The economics explain the attraction. For the current ethanol supply year, oil companies pay Rs 65.61 per litre for ethanol made directly from sugarcane juice or sugar syrup, Rs 60.73 for B-heavy molasses ethanol and Rs 57.97 for C-heavy molasses ethanol. Maize ethanol is even higher at Rs 71.86 per litre.

Those administered procurement prices give large mills and distilleries a predictable buyer in the form of public-sector oil marketing companies. A sugar mill can therefore choose how much cane value eventually becomes sugar and how much becomes fuel ethanol, subject to government rules.

A small jaggery maker does not have the same route into the fuel market. Farmers argue that allowing local units to participate could spread more of the value addition closer to cane-growing areas instead of leaving ethanol margins mainly with large processors.

A Jaggery Unit Cannot Simply Start Filling Ethanol Tankers

There is, however, a major technical and regulatory gap between making jaggery and supplying fuel-grade ethanol.

Petrol blending requires anhydrous ethanol that meets BIS standard IS 15464:2022. Oil-company tenders also require quality certificates for denatured anhydrous ethanol. Producing that consistently needs fermentation, distillation, dehydration, testing, safe storage and statutory approvals.

So the farmers' proposal would require more than giving jaggery units permission. It would need investment, common processing facilities or co-operative distilleries, quality control and a clear procurement system.

The suggestion that farmers use locally made ethanol directly in tractors also raises a separate issue. Ordinary petrol engines are not automatically designed to run on high concentrations of ethanol, while diesel tractors cannot simply substitute ethanol for diesel. Any such use would need compatible engines and the appropriate fuel standards.

The Bigger Policy Tension Is Sugar Versus Fuel

The timing also exposes the trade-off inside E20. USDA expects roughly 3.5 million tonnes of sugar equivalent to be diverted to ethanol during the 2025-26 season. At the same time, domestic sugar supplies have tightened enough for India to permit duty-free raw sugar imports, including supplies from Brazil for the first time in nearly a decade.

The government argues that recent sugar-price inflation has also been driven by weather, lower output, hoarding and seasonal demand. That is important. Ethanol cannot be blamed for every rise in sugar prices.

But diverting more cane into ethanol clearly reduces the sugar buffer when production disappoints. The Centre has already considered limiting cane-based ethanol in a tight sugar year and replacing some of it with grain-based ethanol.

Allowing thousands of smaller jaggery units into ethanol could improve farmer participation and competition. It could also encourage even more cane to chase fuel margins unless the government carefully controls how much feedstock is diverted.

The last 10 years have been extremely good for Tata Motors. In the last one decade, they have managed to come up with multiple products in the ICE and EV segments. They have been aggressive about pricing and have also brought new and interesting products to the market. This strategy has actually helped them secure a spot as one of the most popular brands in the Indian market. To keep up with the competition, Tata is working on bringing new products to our market, and here we have a list of three such Tata cars that are expected to come to the market in 2027.

Avinya

Tata will be entering the luxury electric vehicle segment under a new brand. The Avinya concept was showcased to the public as part of the same. The Tata Avinya is a sportback- or estate-like electric vehicle that would use a Chery-engineered platform.

It is the same platform that Chery and JLR have developed for the Freelander. However, with the rising demand for SUVs, it needs to be seen whether Tata will continue with its plan to launch a low-slung estate-like crossover electric vehicle. The Avinya EV will be loaded to the brim with features, as it is being marketed as a luxury SUV.

Avinya X

The Avinya X is a much more evolved version of the Avinya. Under the new luxury brand, Tata will be launching multiple models, and the Avinya X is likely to be one among them. This is a luxury electric SUV based on the Freelander platform, developed jointly by JLR and Chinese automaker Chery. The Tata Avinya X will be a premium crossover available in 5-, 6-, and 7-seater configurations. It is likely to be nearly five metres long and will come with advanced features beyond what we currently see in Tata models. Details related to the battery pack, electric motor, and other specifications are expected to surface online in the coming months.

All-New Nexon

Tata is also working on the next-generation Nexon, and the same is expected to launch next year. We have already started seeing spy pictures and videos of the next-gen Nexon, and from the details that are available online, it looks like Tata might be shifting from the dated X1 platform to the ATLAS platform, which is a lot more flexible.

We expect to see a completely new exterior design with sleeker-looking headlamps and tail lamps. As this is a generation change, we expect to see changes in dimensions. Tata might actually make the necessary changes to make the car more spacious on the inside while keeping it under 4 metres.

Coming to the cabin, we expect to see a heavily revised dashboard with a large touchscreen infotainment system and a fully digital driver display. We also expect to see physical buttons and a revised Tata steering wheel that is less prone to scratches. Automatic climate control, leatherette upholstery, seat ventilation, a panoramic sunroof, rear AC vents, Level 2 ADAS, a 360-degree camera, and so on are also expected.

The engine on the Nexon is likely to be the same 1.2-litre turbo-petrol and 1.5-litre turbo-diesel units. It might also be offered with a CNG kit with the tanks placed under the body.

The Maruti Suzuki Ertiga has now crossed 15 lakh domestic sales, and its recent monthly numbers show that demand is still unusually strong for a 14-year-old nameplate. Between its launch in 2012 and August 2026, Maruti sold 15,13,574 Ertigas in the domestic market.

The pace has actually increased in recent years. The Ertiga recorded 1,98,327 units in FY2026, its best full-year result so far. In the first five months of FY2027 alone, it sold 95,646 units. July 2026 sales reached 21,606 units, making it the country's third bestselling car that month, while August remained strong at 18,516 units.

So why does a fairly conventional seven-seat MPV continue to outsell many newer SUVs? The answer is a combination of price, space, running costs and the absence of many direct alternatives at the same money.

It Gives You 7 Seats Without A Big Price Jump

The Ertiga starts at Rs 8.90 lakh and goes up to around Rs 13.04 lakh ex-showroom. That puts a proper three-row family car within the same broad budget as many compact SUVs.

It is also sensibly sized. At 4,395 mm long and 1,735 mm wide, it offers three rows without becoming difficult to use in crowded cities. The 2,740 mm wheelbase helps create usable cabin space, while the sliding and reclining second row makes access to the third row easier.

The third row is not a substitute for a full-size MPV on every long journey, but it works for children and can carry adults when required. Fold it down and the Ertiga becomes a useful five-seater with more luggage room. That flexibility is one of the reasons it works as a single family car.

Petrol, Automatic And Factory-Fitted CNG Cover Very Different Users

Maruti offers the Ertiga with a 1.5-litre petrol engine, manual and automatic choices, and factory-fitted CNG on selected variants. Claimed fuel efficiency is 20.51 km/l for the petrol manual specification and 26.11 km/kg for CNG.

That CNG option is particularly important. A seven-seater that can run on factory CNG has obvious appeal for high-mileage private owners as well as commercial operators. Customers who do not want a manual can choose the petrol automatic instead, so the range does not force everyone into the same type of use.

The Ertiga also benefits from Maruti's large service network and widely available parts. Those are practical considerations on a car that may be used for school runs during the week, highway trips with the family and, in many cases, very high annual mileage.

Its Rivals Either Cost More Or Target A Different Customer

There are other seven-seaters, but few match the Ertiga's exact formula. The Kia Carens family offers a more feature-rich cabin and a wider engine range but starts above the Ertiga. Toyota sells the Rumion, which is closely related to the Ertiga, while larger MPVs such as the Innova Crysta and Innova Hycross operate in a much more expensive bracket.

SUV-based seven-seaters bring their own advantages, including stronger road presence, more powerful engines in some cases and different cabin layouts. But many are also larger, heavier and considerably dearer.

The sales numbers show how effectively the Ertiga continues to occupy the gap between an ordinary family hatchback or compact SUV and a much more expensive three-row vehicle. It is not the newest or most feature-loaded option, but it does the jobs most Ertiga owners actually need at a price they can still justify.

In the last few years, the demand for 7-seater cars in India has only been going up. As a result of this growing demand, Maruti Suzuki and its strategic partner Toyota are now gearing up for the launch of not one or two but a total of 10 new models in India. So, if you like these brands and want to buy from them, here are the details of the 10 upcoming Toyota and Maruti Suzuki models.

Maruti Suzuki YMC - Electric Family Mover

The Maruti Suzuki YMC is the internal codename for the brand's upcoming three-row electric MPV and is expected to become its second EV after the e Vitara. It is expected to be around 4.5 metres long and will use the HEARTECT-e skateboard platform developed jointly by Suzuki and Toyota.

The YMC will most likely get the same 49 kWh and 61.1 kWh battery options, and the larger battery will potentially offer up to 543 km of claimed range. RWD is also expected, and its DC fast charging could take the battery from 10-80 percent in under 45 minutes.

Its boxy design, flat floor and long wheelbase should help in maximising space across all three rows. Moving inside the cabin, it is expected to get a 10.1-inch touchscreen, 10.25-inch digital cluster, ventilated front seats, panoramic sunroof and wireless charging. Level 2 ADAS, six airbags and a 360-degree camera are also expected. The YMC could launch around April 2027 at an expected price of Rs 14 lakh to Rs 18 lakh (ex-showroom).

Toyota YMC - Same Base, New Identity

Toyota is also expected to launch its own version of the YMC as part of its product-sharing partnership with Suzuki. The Toyota version will share the HEARTECT-e platform, battery options and overall three-row architecture with the Maruti model, but will get a different exterior and interior design. It is expected to use the same 49 kWh and 61.1 kWh battery packs.

Toyota could give it a hammerhead-style front design, unique DRLs and different alloy wheels. Meanwhile, the cabin is expected to feature dual screens, ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof and multi-zone climate control. Level 2 ADAS, six airbags and a 360-degree camera are also likely. Toyota's version could arrive by mid-to-late 2027, and its expected starting price is around Rs 16 lakh (ex-showroom).

Toyota Fortuner - Bigger And More Advanced

The next-generation Toyota Fortuner is expected to arrive in India in early 2027 after a global reveal which will take place later this year. It is expected to move to an updated IMV ladder-frame platform and could retain the Fortuner's proper 4WD hardware. The new Fortuner will use the same 2.8-litre turbo-diesel with a 48V mild-hybrid system and 2.7-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine.

The exterior is expected to become more boxy and upright, with a wider grille, split LED headlamps, squared-off tailgate and connected rear lights. The cabin could see one of the biggest changes, with twin 12.3-inch screens, ventilated powered front seats, dual-zone climate control and a panoramic sunroof. Level 2 ADAS, a 360-degree camera and up to seven airbags are also expected. Prices could increase to around Rs 38 lakh to Rs 55 lakh (ex-showroom), although these figures are not official.

Toyota Innova Hycross Facelift - SUV Inspired Update

The Toyota Innova Hycross facelift is currently undergoing testing, and it is expected to arrive in India between January and March 2027. The basic MPV silhouette will remain the same, but the facelift will give it a more upright and SUV-like front design. A larger grille, slimmer LED headlamps, revised bumpers, new alloy wheels and updated connected tail-lamp graphics are expected.

On the inside, the existing 10.1-inch touchscreen could make way for a larger 12-inch unit, while ventilated front and second-row captain seats and a panoramic sunroof could be added. The existing 2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol and 2.0-litre strong-hybrid powertrains are expected to continue. The facelift could also get an updated Toyota Safety Sense package and higher-resolution 360-degree camera. Expected prices could start at around Rs 20 lakh and go up to Rs 33 lakh (ex-showroom).

Maruti Invicto - More Features Inside

The Maruti Suzuki Invicto facelift is expected to follow the Innova Hycross facelift and will most likely be launched around mid-2027. The changes are expected to focus more on equipment and styling. It could get a revised grille, sharper tri-LED headlamps, updated bumpers, new alloy wheels and revised rear lighting.

Maruti is expected to add features such as powered Ottoman leg rests for the second-row captain seats, a JBL sound system, updated infotainment and revised upholstery. The 2.0-litre strong-hybrid powertrain will remain the same and will come paired with an e-CVT. One of the biggest additions could be Level 2 ADAS, which is currently missing from the Invicto but available on its Toyota sibling. Prices are expected to be around Rs 26 lakh to Rs 30 lakh (ex-showroom).

7-Seater Hyryder - Longer Family SUV

Toyota is also developing a three-row version of the Urban Cruiser Hyryder, which will most likely arrive around the 2026 festive season or early 2027. The SUV is expected to get a stretched wheelbase and rear overhang, taking its length to more than 4.5 metres.

It will use the same 1.5-litre mild-hybrid petrol and 1.5-litre strong-hybrid powertrains. Meanwhile, AWD could continue with the mild-hybrid manual version. A CNG version is also expected to be introduced later. The cabin is expected to be offered in both 6- and 7-seat layouts.

As for its feature highlights, they will include a 10.1-inch touchscreen, digital cluster, panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, HUD and dedicated AC controls for the rear rows. Level 2 ADAS, six airbags, a 360-degree camera and TPMS are also expected. Prices could range between Rs 16 lakh and Rs 24 lakh (ex-showroom).

7-Seater Grand Vitara - More Space, Same Formula

The Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara 7-seater, also known by the Y17 codename, will be the mechanical counterpart to the upcoming Toyota 7-seater Hyryder. It is expected to make its debut around 2027 and could be priced between Rs 13 lakh and Rs 23 lakh (ex-showroom).

The SUV is expected to use an extended version of the Global-C platform, with a longer wheelbase and rear overhang for the third row. It could get a redesigned grille, wing-shaped DRLs, low-set projector headlamps, connected rear lights and 18-inch aerodynamic alloys.

The cabin is expected to offer 6- and 7-seat layouts along with a 10.25-inch touchscreen, panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, digital cluster and HUD. The 1.5-litre mild-hybrid and strong-hybrid powertrains will continue, and AllGrip AWD will remain available with the manual mild-hybrid version.

Ertiga Facelift - Familiar MPV, Fresh Look

The Maruti Suzuki Ertiga facelift is expected between late 2026 and February 2027. The facelift is expected to bring a revised grille, sleeker LED headlamps, new DRLs, updated bumpers and new 16-inch alloy wheels. The rear could also get revised tail-lamp graphics and possibly a connected LED light bar. On the inside, the biggest expected change is a larger 9-inch SmartPlay Pro+ touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with an updated instrument cluster, new upholstery and Suzuki Connect upgrades.

The 1.5-litre K15C petrol engine is expected to continue with 103hp and 137Nm, while the CNG version could retain its 87hp and 121.5Nm setup. The Ertiga is expected to continue with 5MT and 6AT options for petrol.

Toyota Rumion - More Toyota Styling

The Toyota Rumion facelift is expected to follow the Ertiga facelift, with its launch projected around March 2027. It is expected to get a more prominent Toyota identity through a larger geometric grille, sharper LED headlamps, revised DRLs and new alloy wheels. A connected LED rear light bar could also be added. On the inside, the current 7-inch infotainment system could be replaced by a larger 9-inch floating touchscreen with wireless smartphone connectivity.

A 360-degree camera, Type-C charging ports for the third row, revised upholstery and upgraded Toyota i-Connect features are also expected. The mechanical package will remain unchanged, with the 1.5-litre petrol engine producing around 102 bhp and 137 Nm, and the CNG version will continue. Prices are expected to start at around Rs 11 lakh and could go up to Rs 16 lakh (ex-showroom).

Corolla Cross - Toyota's New Three-Row SUV

Last on the list is the 7-seater Toyota Corolla Cross, which is expected to make its debut around 2028 or early 2029. Internally known as Project 340D, it is expected to be developed specifically as a three-row SUV for the Indian market rather than being a rebadged Maruti Suzuki model. The Corolla Cross will use the TNGA-C platform and get a wheelbase stretched by around 150 mm to make room for the third row.

Toyota could offer both 6- and 7-seat layouts, along with a panoramic sunroof, powered and ventilated front seats, dual-zone climate control and a powered tailgate. A 2.0-litre strong-hybrid and naturally aspirated petrol engine are expected, and the hybrid could potentially produce around 184-196 bhp. Level 2 ADAS, six to seven airbags, VSC and Hill-Start Assist are also expected. Prices could fall between Rs 25 lakh and Rs 32 lakh (ex-showroom).

The Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) has been creating a lot of headlines. In a recent development, petrol pump dealers across the country have threatened to stop accepting UPI payments, and switch completely to cash, if they have to pay an MDR of Rs 5 per transaction. Dealers fear that MDR will further reduce their already thin margins. They had previously sought an exemption for petrol pumps from the government. Time remains before we see how the government responds to these requests.

Dealers Say Rs 5 MDR Will Hurt Margins

Fuel retailing in general, is a high-value, low-margin business. Petrol pump dealers argue that this business is different from normal retail businesses as the petrol and diesel prices are controlled by oil marketing companies (OMCs), leaving dealers with little room for adjustments.

Fuel dealers in Delhi-NCR, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Mumbai, Karnataka and Rajasthan have already raised concerns about the proposed UPI charge. They say that the current margins are just around ₹2.40-3.40 per litre. These are determined by the government through the OMCs.

Federation of All India Petroleum Traders (FAIPT) spokesperson Monty Sehgal said fuel dealers may have to stop accepting UPI payments of Rs 2,000 and above, if they are not given an exemption. Petrol bunks are, in fact, more prone to the effect of MDR. Motorists often fill larger quantities of fuel and pay for the same via UPI. Crossing the Rs 2000 mark is easy in the case of fuel. As we all know, petrol isn’t cheap in India, nor is diesel! In the case of bigger payments, the Rs 5 MDR will need to be paid from the dealer margins. Although this is a ‘per transaction’ fee, it will still reduce their margins.

Retailers cannot increase the fuel prices to compensate for these losses and recover the MDR amounts. Fuel prices are decided by OMCs, and dealer commission and margin structure are fixed as well. In short, the MDR is a direct additional cost to the businesses of fuel retailers.

How Bad Can The Impact Of MDR On Petrol Bunks Be?

The adoption of UPI-based digital payments has been extremely high in India. We love online transactions an UPI-based payments for the convenience they bring. The case of fuel retail business is no different. Hemant Sirohi, a Uttar Pradesh-based dealer and member of the Empowering Petroleum Dealers Foundation (EPDF) cited official UPI transaction data to explain the depth of the impact.

According to it, petrol pumps across India handle around 23.9 million UPI payments, amounting to around Rs 1573 crores. Around 20% of these are worth above Rs 2000. That could mean a financial burden of around Rs 230-250 per litre on an individual pump, in a day, if MDR comes into force. While this amount may seem small to us, dealers find it worrying as their margins are already narrow and operating costs continue to add up.

Some have gone a step further and called for the complete removal of MDR charges for petrol pumps. Two dealers, one from Mumbai and another from New Delhi, said simply shifting the responsibility for the charge to OMCs would not solve the problem. They even alleged that some oil companies may even collaborate with payment service providers and promote cartelisation! They say dealers have faced this in the past.

The dealers, who prefer anonymity, told these to Hindustan Times, and the publication also mentions that the state-run OMCs did not respond to its email queries at the time of writing. We may hear from them in the coming days.

What Is MDR And How Will It Work For Fuel Purchases?

The Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) is an additional charge imposed on a business by payment processors for person-to-merchant UPI transactions above Rs 2,000. MDR is expected to come into force from October 15, 2026. The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has detailed the form and structure of MDR in its latest notification. Person-person transactions will continue to be free. Only payments made to businesses (merchants) will be charged.

So, why are MDR charges being introduced now? UPI platforms process billions of transactions every month. Money from MDR will reportedly be invested into improving customer service, cybersecurity, and infrastructure resiliency.

According to the FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) released by NPCI, fuel payments above Rs 2000 will attract a concessional MDR of Rs 5 (flat). Transactions below Rs 2000 will stay unaffected.

That said, the government has clarified that customers are not supposed to pay the MDR. The charge is meant to be borne by the merchant,. This has made petrol dealers even more worried, as they will have to absorb it outright, and keep prices steady.

The confusion related to E20 fuel and the issues people are facing because of it has been a topic of discussion on many news channels and websites. A new report has surfaced online which suggests that the Central government has now set up a committee to examine raising the ethanol blending target to 25 per cent.

The Union Minister for Food, Public Distribution and Consumer Affairs, New and Renewable Energy and Education, Pralhad Joshi, mentioned this new committee in Hubballi on Tuesday. The minister added that a final decision on increasing the petrol blend will depend on the panel’s recommendations.

Pralhad Joshi, who is a Member of Parliament from Dharwad, said that the ethanol blending policy was initially conceived around 2003–2004 during the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government, and the implementation of the same only began under the UPA government. He said that since then, the Narendra Modi government continued the programme and scaled it up in a phased manner, bringing the blending percentage to the current 20 per cent.

While defending the government’s ethanol policy, Pralhad Joshi also said that ethanol production has helped sugar mills clear arrears owed to sugarcane farmers. He also added that the Centre extended loans of around Rs 14,000 crore to sugar mills to help clear farmer dues after the Modi government took office.

The committee formed by the Central government is currently studying the market, and the final decision on implementing the higher blend would only be considered after analysing the committee’s recommendations.

When reports about E20 fuel causing issues were surfacing online, there was a lot of confusion among customers. Since then, customer sentiment has changed, and we have seen a dip in the numbers for sales of new and used cars. Amid the confusion over E20 fuel, there were also reports that the government was planning for the next phase of blending.

However, the government denied that and said that there had been no proposal to introduce E25 petrol. However, a minister from the same government has now come forward and announced that the Centre has started exploring the possibilities of increasing the ethanol blend from 20 to 25 per cent.

It should be noted that the majority of people who use a two-wheeler or four-wheeler are actually not against the ethanol blending policy. They are simply against the fact that the government is forcing E20 petrol on them by giving them no choice.

Most of the vehicles that are plying on Indian roads are old and are not compatible with the higher ethanol blend in fuel. The proposed E25 fuel will only add to the problems of customers, and the government is forcing them to dump their old vehicles.

The higher ethanol blend in petrol is also not going to bring down the price of fuel, and we already know that E20 fuel decreases the fuel efficiency of vehicles. This means that with a higher blend, the efficiency of petrol vehicles would come down even more, and that would actually force customers to shell out more money from their pockets to refuel.

Mahindra Automotive will be soon taking over the sub-compact SUV segment in India. Now, the reason we are saying this is because it is getting ready to launch the production version of its rugged-looking SUV, the Vision S, in India. Recently, a production-ready test mule of the Mahindra Vision S was spotted testing. And it gave us a glimpse of the final interior design along with its exterior design.

Mahindra Vision S Production-Ready Test Mule Spotted

First off, let's talk about the exterior design of the soon-to-be-launched Mahindra Vision S. The latest test mule is the almost fully production-ready test mule of this SUV. The new Vision S will boast a tall bonnet and a squared-off body, which gives it a more traditional SUV appearance than the crossover-like proportions seen on many compact SUVs.

At the front, the test mule was seen with production-style circular LED projector headlamps and LED DRLs. It was also noted to boast the grille with multiple vertical slats, and the lower bumper features a large central air intake. Vertically positioned lighting elements can also be seen towards the corners. The overall design is quite close to the rugged character shown by the Vision S concept. However, some production details are still hidden under the camouflage.

Another interesting detail visible in the latest images is a radar module positioned centrally in the front grille area and the front windshield. This suggests that the production SUV will come equipped with an Advanced Driver Assistance System, particularly on higher variants. It is also expected to get a 360-degree camera, and Level 2 ADAS are also expected.

At the rear, the Vision S looks particularly different from most other sub-compact SUVs. The latest prototype was seen with a tailgate-mounted spare wheel, which gives it a more rugged appearance. The test vehicle was seen with an 18-inch wheel, which means it could get the same size wheels all around.

The squared-off tailgate, upright rear windscreen and chunky bumper also add to its traditional SUV character, while the vertically stacked rear lamps seen on the prototype are likely temporary units used during testing.

Interior Design And Features - Production Cabin Spotted

The earlier-seen prototypes had already given us a basic look at the interior. However, the latest image now gives us a better idea of the production-oriented dashboard. The cabin gets a large freestanding touchscreen which will measure around 10.25-inch or 12.3-inch. Its design looks familiar to the Thar ROXX.

The Vision S will also get a fully digital instrument cluster, vertically positioned AC vents and a chunky dashboard design. A front passenger grab handle is also visible, and the centre console houses the gear selector and various controls.

Other expected features include a panoramic sunroof, ventilated and powered front seats, electronic parking brake, connected-car technology and a 360-degree camera. However, most of these features have not yet been officially confirmed by Mahindra.

Platform And Powertrain

The Vision S will be based on Mahindra’s new NU_IQ modular architecture. The platform has been developed as a multi-energy architecture and can support petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric powertrains. It is also designed to accommodate both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive layouts, along with right-hand-drive and left-hand-drive vehicles.

Mahindra has stated the architecture will help it in boasting a flat-floor layout even for ICE-powered SUVs. This will help in improving cabin space, boot capacity, driving dynamics and safety. At the moment, the final engine specs and details have not been revealed.

However, the initial version is expected to focus on conventional petrol and diesel powertrains, with manual and automatic gearbox options potentially available. Reports have also suggested that engines from the XUV 3XO could be considered, but their specifications and transmission combinations have not been confirmed for the Vision S.

It could include the 1.5-litre turbo petrol, 1.5-litre diesel engines and others. The NU_IQ platform also leaves room for hybrid and fully electric versions in the future, although Mahindra has not confirmed when or whether these variants will arrive. As for the launch, Mahindra could launch the Vision S by the end of this year or by early next year. The Vision S will compete with sub-compact SUVs such as the Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, Kia Sonet and Skoda Kylaq.

Image Source

JSW will be entering the Indian market as an independent car brand in the coming months. The brand is expected to be officially launched around the festive season this year, and from the reports, it is already clear that JSW has tied up with Chinese car manufacturer Chery for this. Like many brands, JSW is also expected to focus on the SUV segment and new energy vehicles. A design patent for one such upcoming SUV from JSW was recently filed in India. The SUV is the iCar V23 EV, and the Indian version looks slightly different from the international version.

The patent images that have surfaced online actually show the design of the upcoming iCar V23. This is an electric SUV that is already on sale in many markets. The Indian version of the V23 is likely to be known by a different name under the JSW brand. The SUV seen here in the patent images looks slightly different, and it looks like the SUV gets specific changes for our market.

Starting with the front, the V23 EV continues to get the same circular LED headlamp design, but the front grille looks slightly different. We do not see V23 branding on the grille. We expect the JSW branding to be placed on the grille when the EV gets launched. Apart from this, the SUV gets the same bumper design as the international variant.

The V23, as we all know, comes with an exterior design that looks heavily inspired by the likes of the Defender and Rubicon. The boxy design is retained in the Indian version too, but the closed-off portion in the C- and D-pillar region of the SUV gets a rectangular element. It needs to be seen whether that portion would turn out to be a small glass panel or a plastic trim that can be removed for installing additional accessories.

The design patent also shows one more feature that is missing in the international version. The India-spec V23 will be offered with a panoramic sunroof. As we move to the rear, we see the same layout and design as the regular version. Instead of a spare wheel, the EV gets a boxy design element with LED lights in it. The vehicle branding is likely to be seen inside the transparent case. It is actually a storage compartment that can be accessed from inside the vehicle.

Just like the exterior, we expect to see minor tweaks in the interior of the V23 too. The SUV is likely to get the same clean and minimalist-looking dashboard layout with a large 15.4-inch infotainment screen, which also doubles up as a driver display. As the SUV carries a neo-retro design on the outside, the same will reflect in the cabin too.

We expect to see rotary knobs below the infotainment screen to control the volume, drive modes, and climate control. The three-spoke steering wheel on the SUV is likely to be the same as the international version but with JSW’s branding. We expect to see features like leatherette upholstery and possibly seat ventilation, along with other features.

Internationally, the V23 is not a feature-loaded SUV, and it needs to be seen whether JSW would like to maintain that image and price it aggressively or load it up with more features to keep up with the competition.

The V23 will come with a 59.93 kWh or an 81.76 kWh battery pack. It offers a claimed driving range of anywhere between 360 and 430 km. The reason why the bigger battery pack’s claimed driving range is under 500 km is because this version is internationally available with dual motors or an AWD setup. Reports suggest that the V23 in India is expected to be offered in both 2WD and AWD versions and is likely to be priced around Rs 20 lakh. While the brand will officially get launched later this year, their first product is expected to get launched in 2027. The Icar V23 EV is likely to be the second product from JSW after Jetour T2.

Seven-seat cars had a strong August 2026. The segment recorded 86,703 wholesales, up 27.7 per cent from 67,875 units last year.

The interesting part is how broad the market has become. The top end still contains relatively affordable MPVs, but rugged SUVs, premium family cars and even new electric three-row models are now contributing meaningful volumes. Here is a closer look at the rankings.

The Top Five

At No.1 is the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga with 18,516 units sold. Sales were almost flat year on year, up just 0.4 per cent, but the Ertiga still controlled 21.4 per cent of the entire seven-seat market. Its combination of petrol and factory-fitted CNG, relatively low price and fleet demand continues to make it difficult to dislodge.

No.2 is the Mahindra Scorpio range at 15,576 units. This was the big mover near the top, up 58.3 per cent from 9,840 units last August. The Scorpio alone accounted for 18 per cent of the segment. The family now has two models- Scorpio-N and Scorpio Classic.

Toyota's Innova family (Crysta and Hycross) took No.3 with 8,963 units. That marked a 3.7% drop year on year, but still gave Toyota more than 10 per cent segment share from that nameplate.

No.4 went to the Mahindra XUV 7XO (and the outgoing XUV 700) with 8,541 units, up 72.3 per cent.

The Bolero (including the NEO) was No.5 at 8,159 units, almost unchanged from last year's figures.

Sixth To Tenth Show How Varied This Market Is

Kia's Carens and Carens Clavis family ranked No.6 with 6,093 units. Volumes fell 10.7 per cent year on year, but the two still accounted for 7 per cent of all seven-seater sales.

At No.7 was the Mahindra XEV 9S with 4,508 units sold in August. As a new electric three-row SUV, that is a notable contribution and helped Mahindra place four products inside the top seven.

The Toyota Fortuner ranked No.8 with 3,504 units, up a substantial 39.7 per cent. This is impressive because its pricing sits far above those of mass-market MPVs and SUVs. Maruti XL6 followed at No.9 with 3,293 units, up 10.8 per cent.

The Rumion sat at the 10th spot, selling 2,396 units during the month. The percentage increase looks spectacular at more than 3,400 per cent because August 2025 volumes were just 68 units. It is also interesting to note how the Ertiga ranked first and its Toyota-badged version ranked at the tenth position, in August rankings, despite being the same vehicle.

The Tata Safari sold 1,953 units, Renault Triber 1,536 units and the new Nissan Gravite 1440 units. It is interesting to note how the Gravite has been contributing to Nissan's overall volumes in recent months. Circling back, Hyundai could only sell 856 units of the Alcazar in the month.

The MG Majestor, another recent launch, sold 602 units. Kia recorded wholesale dispatches of 365 units- too early to comment on the actual sales performance as this SUV went on sale in India in early September. There are likely dealer dispatches.

Mahindra Owns The Ranking, Ertiga Still Owns The Top

The larger story is the strength of Mahindra. Scorpio, XUV 7XO/ XUV 700, Bolero and XEV 9S together contributed 36,784 units, or roughly 42 per cent of the entire segment.

Toyota also covers an unusually wide spread. The Innova family sits third, Fortuner eighth and Rumion tenth, while the Vellfire occupies the luxury end in tiny numbers.

The Ertiga remains the single biggest seven-seater because it solves a simpler problem. It carries seven people at a much lower purchase price and running costs than most seven-seat SUVs. Plus, its CNG option works particularly well for high-mileage family and commercial users.

August therefore shows two different trends at once. Buyers are willing to spend more on larger SUVs- shows the surge in Scorpio and XUV 7XO numbers. But when pure practicality and cost matter most, the humble Ertiga still beats everything else.

The next big launch from Hyundai in India will be the Bayon, a small SUV that will be positioned between the Venue and Creta when it launches in October. It was recently that the company announced its name officially. Now, Hyundai has released the first official design sketches of the SUV. These give us strong hints of what the exterior and interior will look like.

Hyundai Bayon: First Design Sketches Out

Hyundai says that the Bayon has been developed as a global product. This can be seen in the way it is designed, as well. The design sketches confirm the same. The exterior will have sharp character lines, sculpted surfaces, and strong proportions.

Hyundai says the Bayon follows the latest interpretation of the Art of Steel design philosophy. It looks sporty and robust in the design sketches. Interestingly, these sketches align well with the renders that we have been carrying on our website.

The sketches confirm the vehicle to have an upright and confident stance. It, in fact, has a solid and youthful character that looks different from the silhouette of a conventional urban crossover. One of these images shows the front three-quarter view. We can see a sculpted bonnet and prominent fenders. It also has an H-edge-shaped lighting signature, completing the look. The lower section of the front bumper has distinctive styling elements.

Bayon: The Latest Hyundai To Use ‘Art Of Steel’

Hyundai’s evolving Art of Steel design philosophy has been evolving over the years. The underlying idea is to use the shape and form of steel to create a sense of strength, movement and character in the larger design. This design language has looked good in its most recent applications, like the 2027 Hyundai Tucson.

On the Bayon, however, it keeps its core cues intact- sharply defined surfaces, pronounced fenders and strong character lines- despite the compact proportions of the vehicle. Hyundai's Senior Vice President and Head of Hyundai Design Center, Simon Loasby said that they wanted the Bayon to make a confident first impression in India.

Interior Has A Strong Focus On Technology

The Bayon’s cabin will feel modern and will be packed with features. The design sketches strongly hint at the same. From these images, we can make out that the SUV will come with a large curved dual-display- likely combining two 12.3-inch units (infotainment screen and instrument cluster) like the Venue. Another visible detail is the vertically oriented air-conditioning vents that sit near the doors. The central vents are likely to have a different design. Look closely and you will also see a wireless charger. The SUV seems to have Hyundai’s new-age steering wheel with Morse code logo.

Overall, the dashboard design feels modern. It looks like it was created around technology and connectivity. Hyundai describes the cabin as intelligent, intuitive and suited to contemporary urban lifestyles. That said, the sketches have just given out hints, and the actual design remains undisclosed.

In terms of features, we expect the new Bayon to come with a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, powered driver seat, auto-dimming IRVM, level 2 ADAS, automatic climate control, front and rear parking sensors, 360-degree camera and more. To enhance safety further, it will also come with six airbags.

Expected Specifications

Hyundai hasn’t commented anything about the powertrain plan for the Bayon. However, we expect it to come with a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. This will likely be the same engine that the lower variants of the Creta come with. On the Creta, it produces 115hp and 143Nm, and is available with two transmission options- iVT automatic and a manual.

There are also rumours that Hyundai may introduce its newly-developed 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine on the Bayon. These also go to say that this engine will be strong hybrid-ready. We don’t know the actual direction that Hyundai will take in this case.

It is also being said that the Bayon will have a CNG option and will thus become the first mid-size SUV from Hyundai to come with a factory-fitted CNG with an underbody tank. According to reports, the Bayon may not have a diesel engine on offer in India. Again, all these remain unconfirmed rumours for now. We will have to wait before we learn the manufacturer’s actual plans.

Hyundai is preparing for a busy 12 months in India. Three important SUVs are expected to launch during the period. These will be the second-generation Bayon-based SUV, a small (and affordable) electric SUV and the next-generation Creta. Each of these will target a different section of the market and will in the larger picture, help in increasing the Korean giant’s India footprint. At the time of writing, it ranks fourth, with Mahindra and Tata taking the third and second places. These launches are thus part of Hyundai’s comeback strategy.

Hyundai Bayon

The first launch is expected to be a small SUV. This project is currently codenamed BC4i and the production form is likely to reach showrooms this October. An almost production-ready form has already been spotted testing on Indian roads. Additionally, Hyundai has also released a teaser confirming the ‘Bayon’ name.

The BC4i will have a boxy, SUV-like design. It is likely to come with a connected LED light bar, LED DRLs, split headlamps, sleek LED tail lamps, and good-looking alloy wheels. Despite being compact in size, this SUV will have good road presence. Test mule sightings suggest the same.

Hyundai is expected to give it a premium, technology-rich cabin. Features like ventilated seats, electrically adjustable seats, panoramic sunroof, a curved dual-display, leatherette upholstery and ADAS are expected. If you are already wondering, the Bayon-based SUV will be positioned between the Venue and the Creta in Hyundai’s India lineup.

Under the bonnet, the BC4i is likely to be offered with a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. This is shared with the Creta and will be available with both manual and an iVT automatic transmission. There are also reports that the carmaker might introduce a new turbocharged 1.2-litre engine in this model. A CNG option also remains a strong possibility. The actual powertrain plan remains unclear for now.

Hyundai HE1i: Affordable Electric SUV

The next important launch will be a small, affordable electric SUV that will sit below the Creta Electric. This sub-four-metre EV is currently codenamed HE1i. It is expected to arrive in late 2026, possibly by December. When launched, it will compete with the likes of Tata Punch EV and Nexon EV.

The HE1i’s production form will be based on the new E-GMP (K) platform. It will be a heavily localised architecture. Two battery sizes are expected: 42kWh and 51.4kWh- same as those of the Creta Electric. Both versions are expected to offer a claimed range of 450-500km on a single charge.

Test mules of the HE1i have already been spied testing. This electric SUV will have a boxy design. It will likely have a split headlamp setup, a closed-off front grille, large window areas, machine-cut wheels, roof rails, shark-fin antenna, integrated rear spoiler, sleek LED tail lamps connected by a LED light bar, a muscular bumper, and more. The overall design could remind you of a larger version of the Hyundai Casper sold abroad.

Inside, this EV will get features like a large touchscreen infotainment system, leatherette upholstery, ventilated seats, automatic climate control, ADAS, Hyundai’s new-age steering wheel, and an electric sunroof.

Next-Generation Hyundai Creta

The biggest launch among these will be the next-generation Creta. Expected to arrive in the first quarter of 2027 (most likely in March), it will be a major departure from the outgoing model in terms of styling and packaging.

The next-generation Creta will move to the K3 platform, shared with the new Seltos. It will thus be larger than the current model. The new Creta will have a fresh design. As suggested by spy shots, it will have a more upright and boxy design. Expect it to come with LED lighting, particularly pixel-inspired clear-lens LED tail lamps.

The cabin will also receive a complete redesign. It is expected to get Hyundai’s new Pleos Connect infotainment system. The new Creta will retain the current model’s features. More features are also likely to be added.

The next-generation Creta will also offer a wide range of powertrains. It will retain the current model’s 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol, 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol and 1.5-litre diesel. A new 1.5-litre strong-hybrid powertrain is also expected. The Creta Electric will also get a corresponding update sometime later.

Barrier-free tolling could add another large chunk to the government’s highway earnings and savings, according to Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari. He says the full shift to FASTag-based, barrier-free toll collection could deliver an annual benefit of Rs 20,000-25,000 crore to the government once the system is fully in place.

FASTag has already raised toll income by about 10 percent, or roughly Rs 7,000 crore, taking annual toll revenue to more than Rs 82,000 crore, Gadkari said. He expects barrier-free tolling to add another 10 percent, or around Rs 7,000-8,000 crore, while also cutting the cost of running toll plazas.

The Rs 25,000 crore figure needs one qualification. It is a claimed annual benefit to the government, not a published net-profit number for the roads ministry. It includes higher collections and lower operating costs when compared with the older tolling system.

Toll booths could disappear by March 2027

Gadkari has set a March 2027 deadline for making all national highway toll locations barrier-free. More than 70 percent are expected to move to the new system by the end of December 2026.

The technology is called Multi-Lane Free Flow, or MLFF. Instead of forcing every vehicle through a boom barrier, it combines FASTag readers with Automatic Number Plate Recognition cameras. A vehicle can continue through the tolling point while the system identifies it and collects the user fee electronically.

The system is already operating at selected locations. NHAI launched its first MLFF system at Choryasi on NH-48 in Gujarat in May 2026. It has since moved toll locations at Daulatpura, Manoharpura and Shahjahanpur on the Delhi-Jaipur section of NH-48 to barrier-free operation, making the Manesar-Jaipur run possible without stopping at those plazas.

Lower collection cost is a big part of the calculation

According to Gadkari, the operating cost of toll collection has fallen from around 12 percent under the older setup to about 2-3 percent with electronic collection. That difference matters when annual toll receipts are already above Rs 82,000 crore.

The government also expects to collect more of the toll that is due. With cameras reading registration numbers and FASTag handling payment, the system reduces dependence on staffed lanes and physical barriers. If a FASTag has insufficient balance, is invalid or is not working, the owner can receive an electronic notice.

Under the current MLFF process, the normal user fee can be paid within 72 hours of the notice. If it remains unpaid after that period, the amount can rise to twice the normal toll for that vehicle category. This enforcement layer will be important if barrier-free tolling is to work without simply creating a new route for non-payment.

Motorists gain mainly in time and fuel

The case for MLFF is not limited to government revenue. Gadkari cited estimates that reduced toll waiting has already saved around 71 crore hours and 56 crore litres of fuel annually. The fuel saving alone was valued at about Rs 5,250 crore, while the economic value of time saved was put at Rs 68,500 crore a year.

Those numbers are estimates, but the direction is clear. FASTag cut cash handling and queue times. MLFF removes the final stop itself. NHAI is already tendering additional barrier-free toll projects across states including Delhi, Rajasthan, Gujarat and Odisha, so the March 2027 target is now an execution challenge rather than just a technology proposal.

If the rollout works as intended, the government gets higher collection efficiency and lower operating cost. Highway users spend less time idling at toll plazas. That is the calculation behind Gadkari’s Rs 20,000-25,000 crore annual benefit claim.

Volkswagen is continuing to strengthen its presence in India even as the German automaker faces mounting challenges across its global operations. The company has inaugurated a new dealership in East Delhi, taking its network in the Delhi NCR region to 14 sales and eight service facilities.

The new Volkswagen Delhi East outlet is located in Patparganj Industrial Area and features a five-car display along with a team of 16 trained professionals. Volkswagen says the facility is aimed at improving accessibility for customers in East Delhi and surrounding areas while maintaining the brand's focus on quality, safety, engineering and driving performance.

Delhi NCR remains an important market for Volkswagen, according to Nitin Kohli, Brand Director, Volkswagen India. The company believes buyers in the region are increasingly looking for premium mobility solutions combining design, safety, engineering and performance.

Volkswagen's Global Problems Are Getting Bigger

The dealership expansion comes at a difficult time for Volkswagen globally. The German automaker is undertaking one of the biggest restructuring programmes in its history as it battles high costs, excess production capacity, tariffs and increasingly strong competition from Chinese carmakers.

Reuters reported earlier this month that Volkswagen has earmarked around €16 billion for job cuts and potential factory closures. The restructuring could result in up to 60,000 job cuts globally, while four German plants are being considered for alternative uses or closure.

China is another major problem. Chinese manufacturers have rapidly expanded in Europe with competitively priced EVs, while Volkswagen itself has faced declining sales in China. Reuters reported that Volkswagen's operating margin fell to 3.8% in the first half of 2026, compared with 7.9% in 2022.

This makes markets such as India increasingly important. Volkswagen has been present in India for more than two decades, but its market share remains relatively small at around 2%. At the same time, the broader Skoda-Volkswagen group recorded its highest-ever domestic sales in 2025, with volumes rising around 36% to 1.17 lakh units.

The Indian market could therefore offer Volkswagen an opportunity to build scale, localise products and develop vehicles specifically for emerging-market requirements.

Big Volkswagen-JSW Partnership Coming Up

The biggest development for Volkswagen in India, however, is its proposed partnership with JSW Group.

Volkswagen Group and JSW have signed a non-binding MoU to explore a strategic joint venture covering the development, manufacturing and sale of passenger vehicles in India and export markets. The proposed partnership could cover petrol and diesel cars, EVs, plug-in hybrids and conventional hybrids.

Reports indicate that the proposed alliance could follow a 51:49 structure, with JSW holding the majority stake. The partnership is expected to focus on greater localisation, new products and making India an important manufacturing and export base.

For Volkswagen, the timing is significant. As the German giant restructures its operations in Europe and faces intense competition in China, a deeper partnership in India could help it share investment risks while gaining access to JSW's local manufacturing capabilities.

Kia Syros sales have suddenly picked up after several weak months, and the timing lines up closely with the arrival of the Syros EV. Kia dispatched 1,742 Syros units in August 2026, combining the petrol, diesel and electric versions. That was 34% higher than July's 1,303 units and the nameplate's best monthly result so far in FY27.

The improvement is notable because the Syros had clearly lost momentum after its early launch phase. Monthly wholesales stood at 554 units in April, 961 in May and 790 in June. July brought the first meaningful recovery to 1,303 units, followed by another jump in August. Across the first five months of FY27, Kia has dispatched 5,350 Syros units.

The Syros EV arrived in the middle of that recovery. Kia launched it on July 23, with customer deliveries beginning on July 30. Prices start at Rs 13.50 lakh and go up to Rs 20 lakh, ex-showroom. It is offered with 42 kWh and 51.4 kWh battery packs, with the larger battery carrying a claimed range of up to 526 km.

The EV has clearly added sales

There is one important limitation in the sales data. Kia does not publish a separate wholesale split for the Syros ICE and Syros EV. The 1,742-unit August figure combines both. So it would be wrong to say that the EV alone added 439 units over July or that it single-handedly revived the nameplate.

What we can say is that Kia's overall EV retail numbers also moved sharply upward at the same time. Vahan data shows 767 Kia electric cars were registered in August, the brand's highest monthly EV retail figure so far. Those registrations include both the Syros EV and the Carens Clavis EV, so again there is no clean model-wise split.

Even with that caveat, the timing is hard to ignore. The Syros EV gave Kia a new price point in its electric range and gave the Syros nameplate a second powertrain family just as the ICE version was settling into much lower monthly volumes than it managed soon after launch.

The pricing overlap also matters. The ICE Syros currently starts at about Rs 8.42 lakh and stretches to roughly Rs 15 lakh, while the EV begins at Rs 13.50 lakh. That means the electric version does not simply replace the conventional model. It adds a higher-priced option for customers already considering the Syros, while also giving Kia an electric compact SUV below the Carens Clavis EV.

Syros is still a small contributor to Kia

The August rise does not suddenly make the Syros one of Kia's volume leaders. In the same month, the Seltos recorded 11,716 units, the Sonet 9,048 units and the Carens range 6,093 units. The Syros, at 1,742 units, remained well behind those three.

Since launch, the Syros has accumulated 32,404 wholesale units through August 2026. That is about 7% of Kia's total passenger vehicle wholesales over the same 19-month period. In FY26, it contributed 11,068 units to Kia's 2,89,035-unit total.

The next few months will show whether August was simply the first delivery bump for a new EV or the start of a more durable recovery. For now, the facts are straightforward: the Syros had slowed sharply, the EV joined the line-up in late July, combined Syros wholesales then climbed to their best level of FY27, and Kia simultaneously posted its strongest EV retail month yet. That is enough to say the electric version has given the Syros fresh momentum, even if the available data cannot tell us exactly how much of the gain came from the EV itself.

The French automaker Renault and its strategic partner, the Japanese automaker Nissan, are both getting ready to take over the SUV market in India. We are saying this because both companies have already lined up five new SUVs for the country. So, without any delay, here are the details of the five upcoming Renault and Nissan SUVs in India.

Renault Duster Hybrid - 24-26 kmpl Mileage Expected

The first SUV on this list, which will be launched very soon in India, is the Renault Duster Strong Hybrid. The standard turbo-petrol versions have already been launched, but the E-Tech hybrid version is expected to arrive around Diwali 2026. It is expected to deliver fuel efficiency of around 24-26 kmpl, and its total driving range is expected to be close to 1,000 km on a single tank. The official fuel-efficiency figure is yet to be announced.

The Duster E-Tech will use a 1.8-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine paired with two electric motors and a 1.4 kWh battery pack. The system is expected to produce around 160 bhp and 172 Nm, with a 49 bhp traction motor and a 20 bhp starter-generator. Unlike most rivals that use an e-CVT, the Duster will get a multi-mode automatic transmission which will drive the front wheels.

One of the biggest highlights of this system will be its ability to operate in electric mode for a large part of city driving. Renault says around 80 per cent of typical city driving could be covered in pure EV mode. Although this does not mean the SUV can travel 80 per cent of its total range on electricity.

The Duster Hybrid will also get features such as a 10.1-inch touchscreen, 10.25-inch digital driver's display, panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, 360-degree camera and ADAS. What's more interesting is that the entire 2026 production allocation for the hybrid has reportedly already been booked, and deliveries are expected around Diwali.

Renault Boreal - New 7-Seater SUV

After the Duster Hybrid, Renault is expected to introduce the Boreal, a three-row SUV based on the same architecture. Despite being based on the Duster, the Boreal is not expected to look like a stretched version of it. The SUV will boast a sharper and more premium design, with a less rugged appearance than the Duster. It is expected to be around 4.55 metres long and will offer a more spacious cabin with three rows of seats.

The Boreal is expected to be offered with a 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine and the 1.8-litre strong-hybrid powertrain. The 1.0-litre turbo-petrol from the Duster may not be suitable for a larger 7-seater SUV. Renault's RGMP platform is also compatible with four-wheel drive, so a 4WD version of the Boreal could be considered, although this has not been confirmed for India.

Feature-wise, the Boreal is expected to share its technologies with the Duster. These could include a panoramic sunroof, Level 2 ADAS, 360-degree camera, electric tailgate, wireless charging, 10.1-inch infotainment system and 10.25-inch digital driver's display. The Boreal will compete with SUVs such as the Tata Safari, Hyundai Alcazar, MG Hector Plus and Mahindra XUV 7XO. It is expected to be revealed in early 2027, and the launch and deliveries are likely to follow by mid to end-2027.

Nissan 7-Seater Tekton - Launch Expected In 2027

The Nissan Tekton was launched in India in July 2026 as a 5-seater mid-size SUV, but Nissan is also preparing a three-row version of the SUV. The upcoming 7-seater Tekton is expected to launch by Q1 2027. The new model is expected to have an overall length of around 4.55 metres and a wheelbase of up to 2,700 mm to accommodate a usable third row.

The 7-seater version is expected to retain the standard Tekton's bold styling, including its Patrol-inspired front-end design, connected LED tail-lamps and muscular body cladding. It could also get 18-inch alloy wheels. Under the bonnet, the SUV is expected to use a 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine producing up to 163 PS and 280 Nm, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed wet DCT.

On the inside, it is expected to share its features with the 5-seater Tekton, including dual digital displays, Google built-in integration, panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control and ventilated front seats. Six airbags, electronic stability control, 360-degree camera and Level 2 ADAS are also expected. The starting price could be around Rs 12 lakh (ex-showroom).

Renault Bridger - New Sub-4-Metre SUV

Another major launch from Renault will be the Bridger, which will be a brand-new sub-4-metre SUV that will sit alongside the Kiger. Currently, the Kiger has a conventional crossover design. However, the Bridger is expected to have a more upright and rugged appearance. Its boxy silhouette, squared-off front, angular lighting, roof rails, dual-tone finish and tailgate-mounted spare wheel will give it a more lifestyle-oriented SUV design.

The Bridger is expected to use the newer version of Renault's RGMP platform, which can support petrol, hybrid and electric powertrains. The SUV is expected to get a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine and a 1.2-litre petrol-hybrid setup. The hybrid version is expected to target more than 30 km/l, while Renault has also confirmed that this new SUV will be its first EV in India.

The cabin will come loaded with features including a 10.1-inch touchscreen, 10.25-inch digital driver's display, wireless charging, powered and ventilated front seats and dual-zone climate control. A 360-degree camera and ADAS are also expected. The Bridger will rival the Tata Nexon, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Mahindra XUV 3XO and Skoda Kylaq. Its Indian launch could take place around late 2027, with ICE versions expected to be launched before the hybrid.

Nissan Bridger-Based SUV - New Magnite Alternative

Nissan will also get its own version of the Bridger under the Renault-Nissan alliance. Meanwhile, the two SUVs are expected to share the same basic architecture and core mechanical components. Nissan will most likely give its model a completely different exterior design based on its global SUV styling language.

The Nissan SUV is expected to use the RGMP platform, which will support petrol, hybrid and EV powertrains. It could get 1.2-litre naturally aspirated and turbo-petrol engines. Meanwhile, an EV version is also expected at a later stage. Interestingly, reports have suggested that Nissan may skip the strong-hybrid powertrain that is expected for the Renault version.

The new Nissan SUV will be positioned below the Tekton in the company's line-up. It is expected to compete with the Brezza, Venue and Nexon, among other sub-4-metre SUVs. Local production at the Chennai plant is expected, with prices reportedly starting around Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom). The Nissan version is expected to follow the Renault Bridger and could arrive around late 2027.

Toyota is a very familiar name in Indian households, and we have come across multiple instances that show how reliable Toyotas are and why people are so confident about the brand. Building on this trust, Toyota is planning to expand its lineup in India, and like most brands, it is also focusing on SUVs. Here we have a list of three such 7-seater SUVs from Toyota that are coming to the Indian market.

New Fortuner

The Fortuner has been an SUV ruling the D-segment for decades now. If you look at its history, there has not been any other brand that has managed to thrive in this segment like the Fortuner. Toyota is currently working on the next-generation Fortuner, and test mules have also been spotted. The new Fortuner is expected to make its debut by late 2026 or early 2027. It will be based on the updated IMV ladder-frame platform.

The SUV will come with a sharper front fascia featuring redesigned LED headlamps, a new grille, and a revised bumper. The front end may look similar to the recently launched Hilux pickup truck. Inside, the cabin is likely to get a more premium layout with several new features. The vehicle is expected to continue with 2.7-litre petrol and 2.8-litre diesel mild-hybrid engine options. A 4x4 system will continue to be offered on select diesel variants.

7-Seater Hyryder

The Toyota Hyryder is one of the first products that Toyota and Suzuki developed jointly for India. Toyota is now said to be working on a 7-seater version of the Hyryder for our market. This would actually help them expand their mid-size SUV lineup in India.

While the overall design is expected to remain similar to the five-seater model, the new version is likely to be slightly longer to accommodate the additional third-row seats. It needs to be seen whether Toyota will simply extend the overhangs or if it will get a longer wheelbase. The exterior design may see minor tweaks to ensure that the new SUV has an identity of its own.

Mechanically, the SUV is expected to remain unchanged. It will be offered with the same 1.5-litre mild-hybrid and 1.5-litre strong-hybrid petrol engines as the 5-seater version.

Corolla Cross

Toyota has also announced plans to bring the Corolla Cross seven-seater SUV to India by 2028 or 2029. Corolla Cross SUVs are available in multiple markets outside India, but the upcoming SUV is likely to be different from them. It is currently known by the internal name Project 340D. This is going to be a premium SUV that will be built on the TNGA-C monocoque platform. This is the same platform that underpins the Innova Hycross MPV too.

The Corolla Cross SUV is expected to be offered as a hybrid SUV. It is likely to be powered by a 2.0-litre strong-hybrid engine. It will be positioned between the Hyryder and Fortuner and will rival models such as the Tata Safari and Mahindra XUV 7XO.

Tata Motors already has a strong presence in India’s electric vehicle (EV) space. The carmaker is set to strengthen it further through a series of new launches. Here are five new electric cars expected from Tata Motors in the coming years. These include both mass-market products and luxury EVs.

Tata Sierra.EV Gets A New Trim

The Sierra.EV is one of Tata Motors' newer electric SUVs. Launched in June this year, it has also become the Tata Motors car in production. This mid-size electric SUV could soon receive a new variant. Reports suggest that Tata is preparing a Dark Edition. The Sierra.EV is already available in seven colour options. The Dark edition will become the 8th colour scheme, it these reports are true. It will be a cosmetic upgrade and the design and packaging of the vehicle will remain largely unchanged.

There will be no mechanical changes either. It will be based on the Acti.EV+ platform shared with the Harrier.EV. Two battery options will continue to be offered- 63kWh and 75kWh, with the latter having a claimed range of over 600 kilometres per charge. Both single motor and dual motor versions are likely to be offered on the new edition. The dual-motor AWD (all wheel drive) version does the 0-100 kph sprint in just 5.8 seconds- an absolute benchmark in its segment.

Tata Tigor.EV Facelift: Will Get Design Changes And Feature Additions

The Tigor.EV is also due for a facelift. The update is expected to give it styling changes and bring the design closer to that of the new Tiago.EV. Apart from the exterior updates, Tata is also expected to add more features. Major mechanical changes are unlikely, meaning the existing electric powertrain could continue.

The current model uses a 26kWh battery pack, while the electric motor produces 75 PS and 170 Nm. The facelift is likely to retain these specifications, and have a claimed range of around 315km.

Tata Safari.EV: Tata's First 7-Seat EV

One of the most important upcoming launches from Tata Motors will be the Safari.EV- its first seven-seater electric SUV. Expected around the festive season, it is likely to be offered in both six and seven-seater configurations. Underpinning the Safari.EV will be the Acti.EV+ platform, shared with the Sierra.EV and Harrier.EV. Two battery options are expected- 65kWh and 75kWH. There are also reports of a larger 80kWh battery for higher variants, which will eventually be shared with future Avinya models.

Tata is expected to offer both single-motor rear-wheel-drive and dual-motor all-wheel-drive versions. This electric SUV is expected to get a technology-focused cabin with features seen on the company's newer EVs, including the triple-screen setup, ADAS, and several connected car features. The overall design, will remain close to the existing internal combustion version, with EV-specific tweaks.

Tata Avinya: Tata's First Luxury EV

Tata Motors is also preparing to enter the premium electric vehicle space with the Avinya family. Unlike the other models on this list, Avinya will not be a single product. At least five models are expected to be in pipeline, with the first expected by early 2027. The first Avinya model will be based on the Avinya X concept showcased at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025.

The exterior design of the production model could remain relatively close to the concept. Patent filings have already indicated that this EV will have a modern, technology-focused cabin. A large central screen and a long line of features are expected.

The Avinya project recently saw a major revision in its platform strategy. The range was earlier expected to use Jaguar Land Rover's EMA architecture. The carmaker recently changed course and has now based it on Chery-Jaguar Land Rover's iMAX platform. This architecture is seen on the recently revived Freelander. Although Tata hasn’t confirmed it officially, an 80kWh battery pack could be one of the options on Avinya models.

Next-Generation Tata Nexon EV: New Platform And Possibly Bigger Batteries

Tata Motors has already started testing the next-generation Nexon in India. It will be larger, more spacious and better than the outgoing model. The project is currently codenamed Garud, and test mules have already been spotted multiple times. The electric version is also said to be developed under the ‘Garud’ umbrella.

The next generation (internal combustion) Nexon will move to the new ATLAS platform from the current model’s modified X1. For the EV, Tata Motors could use a variation of the same or move it completely to the Acti.EV architecture. We may see the introduction of larger battery packs. The current model comes with 30kWh and 45kWh. Further details of this model remain under the wraps. It is expected to launch sometime after the internal combustion version launches in 2027.

Mahindra launched the facelifted XUV700 as the 7XO in the market at the beginning of this year. A detailed review of the SUV is also available on our social media channels. Almost eight months after the launch, Bharat NCAP has now released a new video that shows the Mahindra XUV 7XO passing the crash test with flying colours. It scored a full 5-star rating in the crash test.

As part of the test, Bharat NCAP used the Mahindra XUV 7XO’s AX7 diesel seven-seater automatic and diesel automatic AWD variants. The rating applies to all variants that Mahindra offers in the market. The Mahindra XUV 7XO scored a 5-star rating in both Adult and Child Occupant Safety.

Coming to the scores, the Mahindra 7XO secured 30.76 points out of 32 in Adult Occupant Safety, and it scored 44.97 points out of 49 in Child Occupant Safety. Just like any vehicle, the Mahindra XUV 7XO also went through multiple tests. The first was the offset deformable barrier test for the front. In the first test, we saw the Mahindra XUV 7XO crash into a barrier at a speed of 64 kmph. On impact, the SUV’s front was damaged. The headlamps, grille, bonnet, and fenders on the driver’s side were all damaged. However, if you notice, the A-pillar of the SUV is intact, and the front airbags opened on time. The curtain airbags also got deployed at almost the same time.

Next is the side-impact test, where the vehicle is stationary and a moving vehicle hits the side of the vehicle at a speed of 50 kmph, mimicking a T-bone crash. Even in this test, the Mahindra XUV 7XO performed well. The doors did get damaged, but the curtain airbags opened on time and saved the occupants from any kind of head injuries. Once again, the cabin of the vehicle looks intact.

Last is the side-pole impact test, which is done at a speed of 29 kmph. In this test, the XUV 7XO is crashed into a pole sideways. In this test, the roof, pillars, and doors of the SUV are damaged, but the safety features in the vehicle ensured that the occupants stayed safe.

The Mahindra XUV 7XO is available with a host of premium and safety features. As part of the standard safety equipment, Mahindra is offering six airbags (front, side, and curtain airbags), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), traction control, hill-hold assist, hill descent control, ISOFIX child seat anchorages on the outer rear seats, seat-belt reminders for all seating positions, and a tyre-pressure monitoring system (TPMS). In the higher variants, Mahindra is also offering an option for knee airbags.

The XUV 7XO is offered with both petrol and diesel engine options. The petrol version uses a 2.0-litre mStallion-series turbo-petrol engine with manual and automatic transmission options. The diesel version uses a 2.2-litre turbocharged engine that is available with manual and automatic transmission options. Only the top-end diesel automatic variant comes with AWD as an optional extra. Price for Mahindra XUV 7XO starts at Rs 13.99 lakh, ex-showroom and goes all the way till Rs 25.79 lakh, ex-showroom.

Hyundai recently unveiled the name of its upcoming SUV, BC4i, for the Indian market. This SUV will be officially called the Bayon and is expected to be launched in the market soon. Based on the information available online, here is what to expect from the upcoming Bayon SUV.

The Bayon is a mid-size SUV, which means it will measure slightly over 4 metres. The SUV will be positioned between the Hyundai Venue and the Hyundai Creta. This would actually give customers more options in this particular segment. Hyundai will also price the Bayon quite aggressively, and it will compete with the likes of the Skoda Kushaq and Volkswagen Taigun.

The Hyundai Bayon, as we already know, is based on the Bayon crossover sold abroad. However, the brand has made several changes to the exterior design, and the Indian version looks a lot boxier and more SUV-like than the older models sold internationally. The Bayon SUV will be offered with a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. This is the same engine that Hyundai offers in the Creta. This engine generates 115 bhp and 143 Nm of torque. It will be offered with an IVT and manual transmission.

It was earlier rumoured that Hyundai would be launching the Bayon with a strong-hybrid-ready 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine. However, this is unlikely to happen, and along with the hybrid, Hyundai won’t be offering a diesel engine either. The Hyundai Bayon will also be the first mid-size SUV from the brand to get a factory-fitted CNG kit with an underbody CNG tank. The SUV will be paired with the same petrol engine and a manual transmission.

The BC4i or the Bayon will be offered with a premium-looking cabin like most Hyundai models. From the latest test mule images, it looks like the Hyundai Bayon will be getting a grey-and-black-themed cabin, similar to what we saw in the Venue. We also expect to see the new Hyundai steering wheel with Morse code (four dots) on it. The Bayon will get a curved display on the dashboard. One of them is a touchscreen infotainment system, while the other is a similarly sized digital driver display. It looks like the UI on the screen is different from the existing Hyundai models.

Other than this, Hyundai will offer premium features like electrically adjustable seats, seat ventilation, a panoramic sunroof, leatherette upholstery, an auto-dimming IRVM, automatic climate control, Level 2 ADAS, and many more features with the Bayon. Along with the convenience features, Hyundai will be offering a host of safety features like six airbags, parking sensors, a 360-degree camera, and more.

Hyundai has recently released a teaser video, and in the video, it revealed the name of the Bayon SUV. The teaser is actually a hint at what to expect from the SUV. It also hints that the SUV is almost ready, and the launch is expected to happen in the coming months. The Bayon is expected to be launched around the festive season this year. We hope to see the Bayon hit the market by October this year.

The Central Information Commission (CIC) has asked a Petroleum Ministry public information officer to explain why an RTI application containing detailed questions on ethanol-blended petrol was not transferred to the oil marketing companies within the five-day limit required by law. The order does not rule on whether E20 is safe or unsafe. It deals with how the information request was handled.

The RTI was filed on August 11, 2025 by Manoj K. Sharma. It asked when oil companies began blending ethanol into petrol, the percentage and volume being mixed, whether the blend varied between pumps or cities, and what rules governed any such variation. It also asked how customers were informed about the ethanol content of the fuel they were purchasing.

The application went further. It sought scientific and independent evidence behind the blending policy, including material relating to the compatibility of ethanol-blended petrol with cars manufactured between 2010 and 2025. That makes the information request directly relevant to concerns that have repeatedly surfaced among owners of older petrol vehicles as E20 became the normal nationwide fuel grade.

The Dispute Is Over A 5-Day Deadline

The Ministry ultimately transferred Points 1 to 6 of the RTI to Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum and Hindustan Petroleum because it said those companies held the requested information. For Point 7, it supplied a web link to the Roadmap for Ethanol Blending in India 2020-25.

The first appellate authority had found that the Ministry responded on August 27, 2025, which was within the general 30-day period for an RTI response. The CIC looked at a narrower issue. Section 6(3) of the RTI Act says that when information is held by another public authority, the relevant part of an application must be transferred as soon as practicable and in no case later than five days after receipt.

The Commission found that the then CPIO had not met that transfer deadline. During the hearing, the Ministry cited its move from Shastri Bhavan to Kartavya Bhavan, technical difficulties in shifting computers and the ongoing Parliament session as reasons for the delay.

CIC Wants A Written Explanation

Information Commissioner Khushwant Singh Sethi directed the concerned CPIO to submit a detailed written explanation for the delay. It must be sent to the Commission and uploaded to its compliance portal within 15 days of receiving the order. The complaint was then disposed of.

A separate appeal concerning the same RTI had already been heard by the CIC on August 31, 2026. The September 7 order therefore focuses specifically on the Ministry’s handling of the transfer rather than reopening every substantive ethanol question.

That distinction matters because the government has already stated that average ethanol blending reached 20 percent in the current ethanol supply year. Official data shows the programme moved from about 12 percent in 2022-23 to 14.6 percent in 2023-24, around 19.2 percent in 2024-25 and 20 percent in 2025-26. The government has also said no decision has been taken to raise the nationwide standard beyond E20.

The Unanswered Consumer Issue Is Transparency

The RTI questions themselves show why pump-level information remains relevant. Owners may know that E20 is the national standard, but the applicant specifically asked whether the actual quantity could vary across locations, how petrol-pump staff were educated about ethanol content and what disclosure customers should receive at the point of sale.

The CIC has not answered those questions in this order, nor has it rejected the government’s technical case for E20. What it has done is hold the Ministry to the transfer timetable written into the RTI Act.

The number of customers approaching consumer courts to get issues related to their new vehicles resolved has gone up over the years. The recent incident comes from Hyderabad, where the district consumer commission has directed Tata Select Motors to take back a brand-new Harrier EV and refund Rs 28 lakh to the customer after finding that the vehicle sold to the customer had issues.

M/s Refrigeration Equipment and Solutions, a Hyderabad-based partnership firm, had bought the Tata Harrier EV 75 kWh Empowered variant from Tata Select Motors on August 1, 2025. The customer had bought the SUV for Rs 27.98 lakh.

Within days of taking delivery, the vehicle started developing issues. The customer complained that the vehicle failed to start and developed problems with the smart key and central locking. The car was taken to the authorised service centre multiple times for the same issue. The customer claimed that he took the car to the service centre for this issue four times in a month, and apart from this, the vehicle had also stopped midway on multiple occasions.

The dealer told the customer that the issues were related to a software glitch. However, the issues continued despite repeated complaints and repairs. This is when the customer asked the dealer to replace the vehicle, as the vehicle sold to him was defective.

The complainant then asked for a refund of Rs 29,29,395, along with Rs 10 lakh as compensation for the mental agony and harassment that the customer allegedly faced from the dealer. The dealer dismissed the complaint and stated that there was no deficiency in service, citing an expert report.

In the report, the dealer highlighted that the initial issue was solved and that the central locking system was also replaced under warranty. The dealer also added that they were just middlemen and that the complainant had not included the manufacturer in the case.

The bench of President B Uma Venkata Subba Lakshmi and members C Lakshmi Prasanna and B Raji Reddy examined the communications, which included the job cards and service history of the vehicle. It was found that the customer had reported the issue with the smart key within days of the purchase, and the dealer had also addressed the issue.

However, the same service history showed that the issues were repeatedly appearing in the vehicle despite multiple repairs. After analysing the evidence, the commission said that despite the issues being reported multiple times, the problem in the vehicle persisted, which amounted to a deficiency in service, and the commission ruled in favour of the complainant.

The commission said that the dealer who sold the vehicle to the customer is liable to refund the price after deducting 10 percent depreciation. It also added that the customer is entitled to reasonable compensation as the vehicle was bought on loan. The court said the compensation of Rs 10 lakh was not fair and settled for Rs 50,000 as compensation, along with Rs 15,000 as litigation charges.

The commission also directed the dealer to deduct 10 percent depreciation from Rs 26,64,761.90 against the return of the vehicle. The court ordered the dealer to refund the amount within 45 days, and in case of failure, the refund amount will carry 9 percent annual interest from the date of the order until payment.

The country’s second best-selling automaker, Tata Motors, has already started working on the next generation of one of its most popular SUVs. We are talking about the sub-compact SUV, Nexon. The company is currently testing the next-generation Nexon on public roads, and recently, a new heavily camouflaged prototype has been spotted testing. The latest test mule gives us a clearer look at the SUV's side and rear profile. The new Nexon has been noted to boast a more upright and boxier design when compared to the current model.

Tata Nexon To Get A Boxier Design

First off, let's start with the main talking point of this recent sighting of the next-generation Nexon, which has been internally codenamed ‘Garud’. The last facelift and a few other updates of the Nexon have remained very similar to the basic silhouette of the first-generation Nexon. However, the new model has been seen with a much flatter roofline and a more upright rear section. This gives it a stronger and more conventional SUV-like appearance.

The side profile spy shots of the new Nexon have also shown that it could get a redesigned window line and glasshouse. Additionally, the wheel arches will continue to get a prominent design, meanwhile, the doors also seem redesigned. The roof still slopes slightly towards the rear before meeting the integrated roof spoiler. It has been reported that Tata could also make changes to the dimensions to improve cabin space. However, it will still be under 4 metres in length.

New Rear Design Has Started To Take Shape

The latest spy shots have also provided a clearer look at the rear of the next-generation Nexon. It can be noted that the tail-lamps will be positioned high on either side, with small illuminated sections visible through the camouflage. The tailgate itself also looks considerably more upright than the current model. Meanwhile, the rear windscreen looks larger and gets a conventional wiper mounted at the top.

Other notable highlights include a roof spoiler that is also visible on the test mule, and even though the rear bumper was completely covered, we know that it will be fully redesigned. This new butch styling, straighter roofline and more vertical tailgate could also help Tata in improving luggage space as well as rear-seat headroom.

Fuel Filler Position Also Changes

Another interesting detail visible on the latest test mule is the repositioned fuel filler cap. On the current Nexon, the fuel filler is positioned noticeably below the door handles. Meanwhile, on the new model, it has been moved higher up on the rear quarter panel and sits almost in line with the door handles.

Now, on the surface, it may look like a small change, the new fuel filler position indicates that there have been changes that have been made under the bodywork as well. So, when we combine this with the flatter roofline, upright tailgate and redesigned proportions, it suggests that Tata is working on a proper generation change rather than another conventional facelift.

As for the front-end design, from the previous spy shot of the Nexon new generation, it has been noted that the SUV will continue to offer the LED DRLs and a split-headlamp setup. The front grille is also expected to get major changes. Meanwhile, the overall fascia could become more upright and boxy. However, the headlamps, DRLs and grille seen on the test mule do not mean that it is the final production design.

Next-Gen Tata Nexon Interior And Features

Earlier test mules have also provided an initial look at the cabin as well. It has been noted that the company will be retaining some components from the current Nexon, including the steering wheel, infotainment screen and climate controls. These, however, could be development parts, so the final production cabin is expected to be different from the current model.

Tata could introduce a revised dashboard with a large touchscreen infotainment system and a fully digital driver's display. Other expected features include physical buttons, automatic climate control, leatherette upholstery, ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof and rear AC vents. The new Nexon could also get Level 2 ADAS and a 360-degree camera.

Tata Nexon Engine And CNG Options

The next-generation Nexon is expected to continue with petrol, diesel and CNG powertrain options. The petrol version is likely to use a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine. Meanwhile, the diesel version could continue with the 1.5-litre turbo-diesel unit. Both engines are expected to be available with manual and automatic transmission options.

The CNG version is also likely to remain part of the line-up and is expected to use the 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine. However, we will have to see whether Tata will continue with the current twin-cylinder CNG technology or introduce an underbody-mounted CNG tank. The Nexon.ev is also expected to eventually get the new-generation treatment.

Tata Nexon Could Use A New Platform

As per the reports, Tata could also move the Nexon to its newer ATLAS platform, although this has not been officially confirmed. The architecture is reportedly designed for vehicles measuring between 3.7 metres and 4.6 metres, and it is flexible enough to support both ICE and electric powertrains. The next-generation Tata Nexon is expected to launch sometime in 2027.

Source

VinFast has appointed Pham Nhat Quan Anh, the 33-year-old eldest son of founder Pham Nhat Vuong, as its global CEO. He will also remain chairman of VinFast Auto and take charge as chairman and CEO of VinFast Vietnam. Vuong, who had been serving as global CEO, will stay on the board.

The appointment comes at an important point for VinFast. The company is expanding rapidly in Asia, is restructuring its manufacturing business, and is trying to reduce the amount of capital tied up in factories. India is already one of the markets where VinFast has managed to build meaningful sales within a relatively short period.

A Younger CEO, But Not A Newcomer

Quan Anh joined VinFast in 2019 and has handled roles covering vehicle development, manufacturing, sales and after-sales. He became chairman of VinFast Auto in May 2026 and holds a business management degree from Singapore Management University. He will also continue as CEO of VinMetal, the steel business within the wider Vingroup group.

He becomes VinFast's fifth CEO. The company has previously been led by executives including former General Motors executive James DeLuca, former Opel CEO Michael Lohscheller and Le Thi Thu Thuy, who was in charge when VinFast listed on Nasdaq.

The new CEO takes over a company that is growing volumes but still losing money. VinFast delivered 58,577 electric cars globally in the first quarter of 2026, up 61 percent year on year, while revenue rose about 42 percent. International markets contributed only around 8 percent of those deliveries, showing how heavily the business still depends on Vietnam.

India Is Becoming A Bigger Part Of The Plan

VinFast entered the market in September 2025 with the locally assembled VF 6 and VF 7. Its Thoothukudi plant in Tamil Nadu started with capacity for 50,000 cars a year and can be expanded to 150,000.

Sales have picked up steadily. VinFast retailed 2,198 electric passenger vehicles in August 2026, up 44 percent from 1,531 units in July. That gave it about 7 percent of the electric passenger vehicle market for the month and put it fourth among EV brands. The company has also said India was already its fourth-largest BEV market by brand ranking at the end of the first quarter.

VinFast is now working on more India-focused products and deeper local sourcing. That is important because imported components can make it difficult to hit the aggressive prices needed in compact EV segments. Its Tamil Nadu operation is also intended to become an export base for South Asia, the Middle East and Africa.

Restructuring Puts More Responsibility On The New CEO

At the same time, VinFast is changing how it owns and operates manufacturing in Vietnam. A restructuring announced in May involves transferring manufacturing assets valued at about $530 million to a purchaser group and shifting around $6.9 billion of debt with the manufacturing entity. VinFast intends to focus more on product development, technology, brand, pricing and sales while reducing future capital expenditure.

That makes Quan Anh's job broader than simply managing new-model launches. He has to keep deliveries growing, improve overseas performance and make the asset-light structure work without weakening control over quality and production.

His appointment also continues a wider transfer of responsibility within the founder's family. Pham Nhat Minh Hoang, Vuong's second son, has been named global CEO of GSM, the VinFast-linked electric taxi company.

For VinFast customers here, the leadership change is unlikely to alter products immediately. The more important test will be whether the company can keep expanding local production, service support and model choice while turning fast sales growth into a sustainable business.

The sub-four-metre segment is not limited to hatchbacks anymore. There are SUVs and even MPVs that measure under four metres in length. Renault and Nissan plans to expand their presence in this segment, in the near future, through a series of launches. These will use the company’s new-age platforms- the Kiger, Triber, Magnite and Gravite will use the RGEP and the other two RGMP. Here is a more detailed look.

Renault Triber Turbo (+CNG)

The Triber is an important player in the sub-four-metre SUV segment. This seven-seater people-mover offers good value for its price. Renault is set to give it a more powerful turbocharged petrol engine. A test mule has already been spotted wearing a Turbo badge, and the new version is expected to arrive around the festive season. It will use the 1.0-litre, three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine borrowed from the Kiger, that makes around 100PS and 160Nm. The current naturally aspirated petrol engine has an output of 72 PS and 96Nm.

The additional torque provided by the turbo-engine is likely to make a noticeable difference in the way the Triber drives, especially with full load. Highway and overtaking performance could improve significantly. The turbo-petrol version is expected to initially come with a 5-speed manual gearbox. A CVT automatic transmission could possibly join later.

Renault is also working on a factory-fitted CNG version of the Triber Turbo, the power and torque figures of which haven’t been revealed yet. Test vehicles have been spotted carrying both Turbo and CNG badges. The updated Triber will move to the RGEP platform, from the current CMF-A+ platform. This will allow the integration of an underbody CNG tank. This will liberate more usable boot space. On these versions, changes in design and packaging are unlikely.

Nissan Gravite Turbo (+CNG)

The Gravite is Nissan’s badge-engineered version of the Triber. It will get changes similar to those of the upcoming Triber- a turbo-petrol engine, the new RGEP platform and a turbo-CNG version with underbody tanks. Like the Triber, the Gravite too is unlikely to get design or packaging changes on the turbo-petrol and turbo-CNG versions. The exact launch timing of this model hasn’t been revealed yet.

RGEP-Based Renault Kiger

Another upcoming launch is the updated Renault Kiger. This sub-four-metre SUV continues to be in good demand. The update will primarily move it to the RGEP platform from the current CMF-A+. It will then benefit from the heavily re-engineered platform and more importantly, its ability to support an underbody CNG tank. This will free up more boot space. Powertrains will be kept the same- a 1.0L naturally aspirated petrol and a 100PS, 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol. The design and features are likely to remain the same on the updated model as well. We don’t have a confirmed launch timeline for this model yet.

RGEP-Based Nissan Magnite

Nissan will launch the updated Magnite- its version of the Kiger, in the coming months. It will also move to the RGEP platform and will come with minimal changes in design and packaging. Like the updated Kiger, the new Magnite will also feature an underbody CNG tank.

Renault Bridger And Its Nissan Counterpart

Another expected launch from Renault is the production form of the Bridger concept showcased previously. It will be a sub-four-metre SUV- a totally fresh face in the segment. The India-debut is expected in 2027. It will be positioned between the Kiger and the Duster and will be underpinned by Renault’s new-age RGMP (Small) platform- the same that is seen in the Duster as well.

The production-spec Bridger will come with an SUV-like design and an upright stance. It will also have a high ground clearance. The cabin will focus heavily on practicality and comfort. It will be a feature-rich SUV, and prices could begin as low as Rs 8 lakh, ex-showroom.

Renault will take a multi-powertrain approach with this product. It will likely offer the choice of a new 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol, turbocharged petrol, hybrid and EV powertrains.

Nissan also has plans to launch its own version of this product. We don’t know what it will be called, yet. That SUV will, however, have Nissan-specific styling- both on the exterior and inside the cabin. The feature levels are likely to be identical to those of the Bridger. The platform and powertrain options will also be shared with the Renault counterpart.

Maruti Suzuki has recently introduced facelifts for the Baleno and Brezza, but the company's update list does not end there. It has a number of new models in its line-up which are expected to get mid-life updates over the coming period. Now, without wasting any more of your precious time, here is the list of the upcoming 5 new Maruti Suzuki facelifts.

Maruti Suzuki Fronx Facelift - New Engine And Hybrid Expected

The Maruti Suzuki Fronx is expected to soon get an update. Apart from exterior and interior changes, the crossover could get Level 2 ADAS with features such as Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control and Forward Collision Warning like the new Baleno. The existing 360-degree camera is also expected to continue.

Under the bonnet, the Fronx facelift will most likely get Maruti's 1.2-litre, three-cylinder Z-Series petrol engine, which already powers models such as the Swift, Dzire and updated Baleno. The engine produces 83 bhp and 112 Nm and comes paired with a 5-speed manual or 5-speed AMT. A factory-fitted CNG option is also expected.

The bigger update, however, could be the reported Series-Hybrid powertrain. It is expected to use the same 1.2-litre petrol engine as a generator, along with a small battery and an electric motor that drives the wheels. The system is reportedly being developed for mass-market compact cars and is targeting more than 35 kmpl in real-world driving conditions. Although this figure is not confirmed, this version will most likely be launched next year.

Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Facelift - More Features And ADAS

The Grand Vitara is expected to get its first major mid-life update around the festive season of 2026 or in early 2027. The overall silhouette and platform will likely remain unchanged. But it will get a new grille, revised bumper and updated LED projector headlamps. New 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels and connected LED tail-lamps are also expected.

On the inside, the changes will be more noticeable. The existing 9-inch infotainment system could be replaced by a 10.1-inch floating touchscreen. Meanwhile, a 10.25-inch fully digital driver's display is also expected. Other reported additions include an 8-speaker Infinity sound system with Dolby Atmos tuning, an 8-way powered driver's seat, powered tailgate with gesture control and an air purifier with PM2.5 display.

The Grand Vitara facelift is also expected to get Level 2 ADAS for the first time, including Adaptive Cruise Control, AEB, Lane Keep Assist, Lane Departure Warning and Auto High Beam Assist. Its existing 1.5-litre petrol, strong-hybrid and CNG powertrains are expected to continue. Maruti could also use an underbody-mounted CNG tank to free up boot space.

Maruti Suzuki Ertiga Facelift - More Features Expected

The Ertiga is another popular Maruti model that could be soon getting a facelift before the next-generation version arrives. The update is expected to focus mainly on cosmetic changes and additional features rather than a major mechanical overhaul. The MPV could get a revised exterior along with a larger touchscreen infotainment system and a 360-degree camera.

The existing engine and transmission options are expected to continue, including manual and automatic gearbox choices. Maruti could also introduce an underbody-mounted CNG tank, which would help free up usable luggage space compared with the existing CNG packaging. However, details about the exterior design and launch timeline are currently limited.

Maruti Suzuki WagonR Facelift - New Engine Could Be The Biggest Change

The WagonR has been spotted testing with heavy camouflage, which has indicated that Maruti Suzuki is working on an update for its long-running hatchback. The familiar tall and upright silhouette is expected to remain, while the headlamps, grille, bumpers and tail-lamps could receive revisions.

The bigger change could be under the bonnet. The current WagonR uses 1.0-litre three-cylinder and 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engines, with the smaller engine also available with CNG. But the new 1.2-litre Z12E could now become the standard engine.

The 1.0-litre petrol engine and factory-fitted CNG option are also expected to continue. An underbody CNG tank is also being considered, although there is no official confirmation yet. The facelift could also mean the Wagon R could get updated infotainment, convenience and safety features as well.

Maruti Suzuki Invicto Facelift - More Premium Features Expected

The premium MPV Invicto is also expected to soon get a facelift. It is expected to launch next year. The MPV could get minor styling changes such as a revised grille, larger 19-inch alloy wheels, updated bumpers and new colour options. It will be heavily inspired by the soon-to-be-launched Toyota Innova Hycross.

The bigger focus is expected to be on features. Maruti could add a larger infotainment screen, panoramic sunroof, Level 2 ADAS, 360-degree camera, JBL audio system, Ottoman rear seats, ventilated seats, wireless charging and six airbags. There is also a possibility of lower variants being introduced to reduce the entry price. The current 2.0-litre petrol-hybrid powertrain with an e-CVT is expected to continue.