Upcoming Hybrid SUVs From Hyundai – A Deep Dive Into What We Know So Far

GaadiWaadi -

Here we have listed the three possible hybrid SUV launches from Hyundai over the next two to three years in India

Hyundai seems to be accelerating its hybrid SUV strategy for India with multiple upcoming launches. Alongside the next generation Creta, the company is developing a larger and more premium three-row SUV which will sit above the Alcazar. At the same time, talks are reportedly underway to bring the globally praised Palisade to India, which, if approved, could also feature a hybrid powertrain. Here’s a closer look at all three SUVs:

1. New Hyundai Creta:

Codenamed SX3, the next-gen Hyundai Creta is in the pipeline with a full redesign that will see it adopt fresh styling cues and a completely new platform with market entry expected by 2027. Alongside this, Hyundai is also preparing a mid-cycle update for the Creta EV which is likely to follow the updated ICE version into showrooms.

Existing Creta

Hyundai’s immediate focus is on the next-gen Venue, slated to hit showrooms by late 2025, but groundwork for the all-new Creta replacement is already underway. Reports suggest the SUV could carry forward the familiar 1.5-litre petrol, 1.5-litre diesel and 1.5-litre turbo-petrol powertrains while a hybrid option is also being readied reportedly.

Also Read: GST 2.0: Hyundai Venue Base Available With Rs. 1.38 Lakh Benefits

2. Hyundai Ni1i SUV:

Codenamed Ni1i, Hyundai’s upcoming three-row SUV is expected to adopt a hybrid setup with reports hinting at the brand reworking its familiar 1.5-litre NA petrol engine for the role. Positioned as a premium addition, the model will more likely slot between the Alcazar and Tucson – filling a key gap in Hyundai’s Indian portfolio.

Also Read: Upcoming Hyundai And Tata SUVs Within The Next 2 Months – Details

Global Tucson Hybrid

While Hyundai has not confirmed a launch window, market chatter suggests the new three-row SUV could see the light of day in 2027. Production is expected to take place at the brand’s Talegaon facility purchased from General Motors.

3. Hyundai Palisade Hybrid:

Hyundai’s latest hybrid technology, first introduced globally with the Palisade, is tipped to make its way to India by 2028. The system pairs a 2.5-litre turbo-petrol motor with an electric unit – producing a combined 334 hp and 460 Nm – while managing a claimed efficiency figure of just above 14 km per litre.

In the meantime, Hyundai will also look to strengthen its electric lineup which currently comprises the Ioniq 5 and Creta. A brand new locally produced e-SUV was confirmed recently.

The post Upcoming Hybrid SUVs From Hyundai – A Deep Dive Into What We Know So Far appeared first on Gaadiwaadi.com - Latest Car & Bike News by Surendhar M.

from Gaadiwaadi.com – Latest Car & Bike News https://ift.tt/loeIrjq

4 New Mahindra SUVs Arriving Soon (Under 20 Lakh) – Key Details

GaadiWaadi -

Within the next year and a half, Mahindra looks to be preparing to bring in as many as 4 new IC-engined SUVs to the domestic market

Mahindra & Mahindra is developing a number of new models for the domestic market across different segments and price brackets. Here we focus on the soon-arriving ICE SUVs as the three-door Thar and XUV700 are in line to get facelifts while a brand new compact SUV could also be in the works. Here we take a deep look at them:

1. Updated 3-Door Mahindra Thar:

Mahindra is readying the facelifted three-door Thar which has been seen multiple times under heavy camouflage. The updated model is expected to borrow some design cues from the Thar Roxx. Interestingly, the one spotted at a dealer yard recently showed minor changes compared to the previously spied test mules.

The interior will get a larger touchscreen infotainment system with connectivity options, repositioned AC vent switches, wireless smartphone charger, more premium trims and materials and reverse parking but ADAS and a 360-degree camera system are highly unlikely. No mechanical changes are expected as the familiar petrol and diesel engines will be utilised.

Also Read: Mahindra NU_IQ To Underpin New Compact & Midsize SUVs – AWD, EV, Hybrid

Image Source: Harsh Chauhan

2. Mahindra XUV 700 Facelift:

The updated Mahindra XUV700, slated for a market debut in the first quarter of 2026, has been caught on test several times. Though the overall proportions will stay true to the current model, the SUV is expected to gain a new grille, redesigned bumpers and a new alloy wheels and perhaps new paint schemes could be added as well.

On the inside, the facelifted XUV700 is expected to see the most significant upgrades with reports pointing to an all-new dashboard layout. The highlight will be a triple-screen arrangement comprising a large central infotainment unit, a digital driver’s display, and an additional screen for the front passenger.

Also Read: 8 New Mahindra Premium SUVs Waiting To Arriving Soon In India

Image Source: TamilMotors360

3. Mahindra Bolero Neo Facelift:

The Mahindra Bolero Neo facelift has been spotted on test runs as well – pointing towards a possible launch in the coming months. This update is expected to bring refreshed styling and a few additional features in the cabin, though the SUV is unlikely to see any alterations to its mechanical package.

4. New Compact Mahindra Scorpio:

Spy Source: Motowagon

Mahindra’s recent showcase of the Vision S concept acts as a preview of what many believe will evolve into the next compact iteration of the Scorpio. The twist, however, lies in the timelines. While camouflaged prototypes of the Vision S are already testing and suggest a market debut as early as 2026, the NU_IQ-based products themselves are only slated for 2027.

The post 4 New Mahindra SUVs Arriving Soon (Under 20 Lakh) – Key Details appeared first on Gaadiwaadi.com - Latest Car & Bike News by Surendhar M.

from Gaadiwaadi.com – Latest Car & Bike News https://ift.tt/3fhcKv9

New Skoda Octavia RS To Launch In India On October 17

GaadiWaadi -

New Skoda Octavia RS is equipped with a 2.0L TSI turbo petrol engine kicking out 265 PS and is coupled with a seven-speed DSG transmission

Skoda Auto India has confirmed that the fourth generation Octavia RS will be officially launched on 17 October with pre-bookings opening on 6 October through the brand’s official online portal. The performance sedan, showcased earlier this year at the 2025 Auto Expo, could be retailed in a fully loaded trim as a single variant.

Unlike the standard Octavia, the RS is being shipped in as a CBU and Skoda has restricted the allocation to just 100 units for the domestic market. Deliveries of the sporty Octavia RS will commence from 6 November. The limited run nature of the launch underscores Skoda’s intent to position the RS as an exclusive offering and it will look to lure in buyers this festive season.

The latest Skoda Octavia made its global debut in early 2024 with a host of cosmetic revisions. It is available in sedan and estate body types elsewhere and uses a wide range of powertrain choices including petrol, diesel, mild-hybrid and in PHEV form. The performance-based Octavia RS gets more aggressive bumpers with triangular air intakes, twin exhaust pipes, bucket seats, contrast red stitching and more.

Also Read: VW Taigun & Skoda Kushaq Facelifts Spotted Testing Together

It features a three-spoke steering wheel with RS branding, aluminium pedals and carbon-like trims. It is retailed only with a 2.0L four-cylinder TSI turbocharged petrol mill with the maximum power rating of 265 PS and a peak torque of 370 Nm – making it the most powerful production Octavia ever.

The engine is mated to a seven-speed DSG transmission sending power to only the front wheels. A slew of mechanical upgrades are also on offer including sport-tuned suspension setup that lowers the ground clearance by 15 mm, tuned exhaust note, electronically controlled limited slip differential, etc.

Also Read: Skoda Kodiaq 5-Seater Lounge Variant Launched At Rs. 39.99 Lakh

It must be noted that the new Skoda Octavia RS will be based on the UK version and thus it will be devoid of features including Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC). It will be imported from Skoda’s home market of Czech Republic.

The post New Skoda Octavia RS To Launch In India On October 17 appeared first on Gaadiwaadi.com - Latest Car & Bike News by Surendhar M.

from Gaadiwaadi.com – Latest Car & Bike News https://ift.tt/1EaKRdp

SAIC To Scale Back Stake In JSW MG Motor India

SAIC trims stake in JSW MG Motor India amid policy hurdles

Chinese automaker SAIC Motor is preparing to reduce its shareholding in JSW MG Motor India and pause fresh investments, as regulatory restrictions and valuation disagreements cloud its operations in the Indian market.

SAIC intends to “substantially” dilute its current 49% stake in the joint venture but will continue to provide technology and products. Indian partner JSW Group has expressed interest in purchasing a larger stake, though both sides have yet to finalise terms due to differences over valuation.

Investment curbs and strategic realignments

The development comes in the wake of India’s 2020 restrictions on foreign direct investment from neighbouring countries, widely interpreted as measures aimed at limiting Chinese capital after border tensions. To navigate these curbs, SAIC formed a partnership with JSW Group, enabling MG Motor to continue its expansion in India, now the world’s third-largest car market.

While the move does not signal a complete withdrawal, it reflects the broader uncertainty Chinese carmakers face in India. Despite a recent meeting between leaders of both nations, regulatory bottlenecks remain. For instance, Indian companies are still awaiting Chinese approvals for the import of critical rare-earth materials used in electric vehicle production.

Parallel negotiations and tensions

Industry sources suggest that JSW is simultaneously in talks with another Chinese automaker, Chery Automobile, for a separate technology partnership to manufacture cars under its own brand. This parallel negotiation has reportedly raised concerns for SAIC, underscoring the strains within the partnership.

MG Motor’s trajectory in India

SAIC entered India in 2019 with the MG brand, investing more than $650 million and acquiring General Motors’ Gujarat facility with a capacity of 1,20,000 units annually. However, subsequent expansion proposals, including an electric vehicle investment under a government incentive program, were stalled in 2020.

In 2023, SAIC sold a significant portion of its holdings in the Indian subsidiary to local investors, including a 35% stake purchased by JSW for about $300 million. The deal valued MG Motor India at around $1.2 billion. Since then, JSW MG Motor has announced a $240 million investment plan for electric vehicles, which is still awaiting regulatory clearance.

Despite political and regulatory headwinds, MG Motor India has grown its sales from 16,500 units in 2019 to more than 61,000 in 2024, making it the second-largest electric vehicle manufacturer in the country after Tata Motors. However, with Tesla entering the Indian market, competition in the EV segment is set to intensify.

The road ahead

SAIC’s reduced role may pave the way for JSW to gain greater control over MG Motor’s future direction. Yet, questions remain over technology access, valuation agreements and how the joint venture will position itself in India’s fast-evolving auto industry.

Source

The post SAIC To Scale Back Stake In JSW MG Motor India appeared first on MotorBeam.

from Car News | MotorBeam - Indian Car Bike News & Reviews https://ift.tt/UMc6Wea

VW Taigun & Skoda Kushaq Facelifts Spotted Testing Together

GaadiWaadi -

The facelifted Volkswagen Taigun and Skoda Kushaq are expected to go on sale before the end of this year or in early 2026 in India

Volkswagen and Skoda are indeed preparing to refresh their midsize SUVs as both the Taigun and Kushaq facelift prototypes recently were caught testing together on Indian roads. The timing suggests that the Volkswagen-Skoda alliance is developing the updates in tandem with market launches expected either by the end of this year or slipping into early 2026.

The Taigun, on sale since 2021, has been a backbone product for Volkswagen India. Spy shots of the facelift reveal that the overall silhouette will stay intact – though key areas like the grille, bumpers and headlamp detailing are in line for subtle revisions. The connected LED tail lamps with C-shaped elements appear unchanged while roof rails, mirrors and the rear spoiler have been carried forward from the current model.

New alloy wheel designs and paint shades are also expected to be part of the update. On the inside, a reworked dashboard layout, more upmarket trim materials and features are likely. Importantly, the Taigun facelift could receive a full suite of Level 2 ADAS functions as adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, autonomous emergency braking and rear cross-traffic alert could be among them.

Also Read: Volkswagen Taigun Facelift Caught Testing Again, Launch Soon?

Image Source: MotorBeam/Instagram

Skoda, meanwhile, is applying a similar recipe to the Kushaq. The test mule wore heavy camouflage at the front and rear indicating changes to the bumpers, grille and headlamps. The profile remains untouched with 17-inch black alloys seen on the prototype. Sequential turn indicators and panoramic sunroof are expected to join the feature list.

The cabin is set for notable upgrades too. Skoda is working on a more premium ambience – likely involving new upholstery, redesigned centre console and an updated dashboard. A larger infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 360-degree camera system, connected car tech, ventilated front seats, six airbags as standard and wireless phone charging are expected to headline the list of features.

Also Read: 8 Upcoming Car Launches This Festive Season – Tata To Skoda

Under the skin, both SUVs will continue to use the familiar MQB A0 IN architecture with high localisation. Powertrain options remain unchanged – a 115 PS, 1.0-litre turbo-petrol with 178 Nm of torque and a 150 PS, 1.5-litre TSI with 250 Nm. Transmission duties are expected to be carried out by a six-speed manual, six-speed torque converter automatic and the seven-speed DSG.

Industry chatter suggests that Volkswagen could even look at introducing an eight-speed automatic further down the line. The upcoming facelifts will continue to take on Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and recently launched Victoris, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Honda Elevate and upcoming Renault-Nissan duo.

The post VW Taigun & Skoda Kushaq Facelifts Spotted Testing Together appeared first on Gaadiwaadi.com - Latest Car & Bike News by Surendhar M.

from Gaadiwaadi.com – Latest Car & Bike News https://ift.tt/l62zZJL

Bajaj Holds Pulsar NS400 & Dominar 400 Prices Steady Despite GST Hike

GaadiWaadi -

The prices of the Bajaj Pulsar NS 400Z and Dominar 400 continue to remain the same as the brand decides to absorb the hike

In a move that will bring relief to performance bike enthusiasts, Bajaj Auto has announced that the Pulsar NS 400Z and Dominar 400 will not see any increase in their ex-showroom prices – even as GST on motorcycles above 350 cc has jumped from 28 per cent to 40 per cent and it mirrors the approach followed by KTM and Triumph.

The decision effectively means that Bajaj is absorbing the tax hike ensuring customers continue to endure the same value proposition without an additional financial burden which might have been gone over Rs. 22,000. The Pulsar NS 400Z boasts an aggressive stance and packed performance with latest features and it appeals to a wide range of consumers.

Arguably, the most VFM 400 cc offering in India continue to be sold at its previous prices. While the popularity of Dominar 400 did come down big time in recent years, Bajaj has opted not to increase its prices too. The former is currently priced at Rs. 1.92 lakh while the latter carries a price tag of Rs. 2.39 lakh (ex-showroom).

Also Read: KTM & Triumph 400cc Bikes Absorb GST Impact, Aprilia RS457 Gets Rs. 35K Benefits

Commenting on the announcement, Sumeet Narang, President, Marketing, Bajaj Auto Ltd., said, “The Pulsar NS400 and Dominar 400 embody two sides of our philosophy—daring performance and long-distance touring confidence. Even with the GST increase, we wanted to ensure that riders are not burdened with higher ownership costs. By keeping prices unchanged, Bajaj Auto reaffirms its commitment to delivering motorcycles that excite, endure, and remain within reach of enthusiasts.”

At a time when buyers are highly sensitive to price increases due to the new GST 2.0 tax structure, especially in the middleweight capacity motorcycle space, freezing prices could help the company maintain momentum for its flagship offerings. Moreover, it could urge more people to purchase these motorcycles during this festive season.

Also Read: Royal Enfield 450 cc And 650 cc Prices Up By Up To Rs. 29,486

In a similar fashion, Hero MotoCorp has also elected not to up the prices of the Harley-Davidson X440. Despite dropping prices significantly for its 350 cc range of motorcycles comprising the Bullet, Classic, Hunter and Meteor, RE has hiked prices of its Scram 440, Guerrilla 450, Himalayan 450 and its flagship 650 cc offerings.

The post Bajaj Holds Pulsar NS400 & Dominar 400 Prices Steady Despite GST Hike appeared first on Gaadiwaadi.com - Latest Car & Bike News by Surendhar M.

from Gaadiwaadi.com – Latest Car & Bike News https://ift.tt/3gxZSAT

New Gen Kia Seltos Spotted Testing Again In India, Launch In 2026

GaadiWaadi -

New gen Kia Seltos is expected to debut sometime next year with a myriad of revisions inside and out

The next-gen Kia Seltos has been caught undergoing test runs shrouded in heavy camouflage and it hints at a comprehensive overhaul in the works. Among the biggest talking points is the possibility of a hybrid powertrain being introduced later in the model’s lifecycle. It is expected to make its first global appearance sometime in 2026.

The test mule spotted on Indian roads reveals clear hints of Kia’s updated design language – borrowing cues from global models. The SUV appears to adopt vertically arranged LED headlamps, a reworked grille with fresh air intake patterns, muscular body contours and new vertical LED DRLs.

All these updates collectively indicate a busier stance for the new Seltos with the front fascia receiving the most radical makeover yet. Complementing the changes up front are new alloy wheel design, triangular rear quarter glass, tweaked bumpers at either end and new taillight signatures. Kia may add a handful of new paint schemes too.

Also Read: Kia Rolls Out Pre-GST & Festive Benefits Up To Rs. 2.25 Lakh

Image Source: b.choww/Instagram

While the second-gen Seltos appears to retain its familiar proportions on the outside, the real transformation is expected inside the cabin. Kia may overhaul the dashboard and centre console design using new surface materials and updated textures for a more premium feel. On the tech front, the SUV should gain enhanced connected car functions along with a suite of advanced safety features and driver assistance aids.

Speculation is rife that Kia could be readying an all-wheel-drive hybrid version of the next-gen Seltos for select markets. With hybrids steadily becoming the norm in the midsize SUV space, such a move would make sense for the brand, delivering better efficiency and lower emissions.

Also Read: 3 Upcoming Compact Electric SUVs In India – Kia To Mahindra

For markets like India, Kia will more likely continue offering the tried-and-tested powertrain lineup — the 1.5-litre petrol, 1.5-litre turbo petrol, and 1.5-litre diesel units. The NA petrol produces 115 PS and 144 Nm while the turbo oil burner makes 116 PS and 250 Nm. The turbo mill is good enough for 160 PS and 253 Nm.

The post New Gen Kia Seltos Spotted Testing Again In India, Launch In 2026 appeared first on Gaadiwaadi.com - Latest Car & Bike News by Surendhar M.

from Gaadiwaadi.com – Latest Car & Bike News https://ift.tt/7Pja0ou