Prices Of EVs To Match Petrol Cars By Early 2026 Says Nitin Gadkari

GaadiWaadi -

Nitin Gadkari has indicated that electric vehicle prices in India could match those of petrol vehicles within the next four to six months in India

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has indicated that electric vehicle prices in India could match those of petrol-powered vehicles within the next four to six months. It comes on the back of increased consumption of zero-emission vehicles across different segments over the last few years. If the price parity can be achieved, there is no doubt that the EV sales will accelerate further.

Highlighting the economic stakes, Gadkari noted that India spends roughly Rs. 22 lakh crore annually on fuel imports. The figure indicates both the financial and environmental urgency of transitioning to sustainable energy sources. According to the minister, making EVs more affordable is a key step in promoting sustainable mobility nationwide.

The government is actively supporting policies and incentives to lower costs and enhance accessibility for consumers as well. Gadkari also outlined ambitious goals for India’s automobile sector. He aims to position it as the world’s largest within the next five years. India surpassed Japan to become the world’s third largest automobile market.

Also Read: Upcoming Hyundai Cars You Should Know About – SUVs, EVs, Hybrids

The significant milestone achieved around January 2023 and it continues to be the case. While the sector’s valuation has grown from Rs. 14 lakh crore to Rs. 22 lakh crore under his tenure, it still lags behind the United States which boasts a valuation of Rs. 78 lakh crore and the leading EV consumer in the world China with Rs. 47 lakh crore.

Indian farmers have reportedly earned Rs. 45,000 crore producing ethanol from corn as the development supports both cleaner energy production and greater self reliance in fuel resources. If the EV prices drop and substantial incentives are put in place, the said transition to electric mobility is expected to gain significant momentum in the near term.

Also Read: EVs Sales In India Surpass 10 Lakh Units In H1 FY2026

The E20 fuel program was launched earlier this year to reduce pollution and boost farmers’ incomes as well as decrease oil imports. It consists of 20 per cent renewable ethanol and 80 per cent petrol. While it offers environmental and economic benefits by using domestic biomass like sugarcane, the rollout has been chaotic to say the least and caused concern among vehicle owners.

It is in particular regards to compatibility, potential mileage decrease and the need for component replacements in older vehicles. Looking ahead, the government’s vision includes turning India into a manufacturing hub for electric vehicles.

The post Prices Of EVs To Match Petrol Cars By Early 2026 Says Nitin Gadkari appeared first on Gaadiwaadi.com - Latest Car & Bike News by Surendhar M.

from Gaadiwaadi.com – Latest Car & Bike News https://ift.tt/dmc8UWT

TVS Apache RTX 300 ADV Expected To Launch This Month – Details

GaadiWaadi -

The Apache RTX 300 will be the first ADV from TVS; to be powered by an all-new RT-XD4 engine

TVS Motor Company is all set to debut its first adventure motorcycle in the Indian market. The much-awaited Apache RTX 300 will likely be launched on 15th October. We have received an invite from TVS for a launch event with the tagline ‘Mount Up For The Mountains’, confirming that it is the long-awaited adventure motorcycle.

The Apache RTX 300 was first unveiled at the 2025 Auto Expo earlier this year, and its test mule has also been spotted on multiple occasions. In addition to being the Indian two-wheeler manufacturer’s first adventure motorcycle, the RTX 300 will be the first model in the brand’s line-up to be powered by the new RT-XD4 engine, which was unveiled at the MotoSoul 2024.

This engine is a 299cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled unit, putting out 35 PS and 28.5 Nm of peak torque. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox with a slip and assist clutch. Underpinned by a steel trellis frame, the RTX 300 shares its underpinnings with the Apache RR 310 and RTR 310.

Also Read: 2025 TVS Raider 125 Launched In India At Rs. 93,800

From what we have learned, the RTX 300 will be a road-biased ADV, with a 19-inch front and a 17-inch rear alloy wheel, shod with block-pattern tyres. On the hardware front, it will be suspended by a set of long-travel USD forks at the front and a rear mono-shock.

Talking about the design, the ADV features a sporty stance with a few adventure-oriented elements like a typical ADV beak, a tall windscreen, mid-set foot pegs, knuckle guards, luggage rack and a beefy engine guard. The RTX 300 sports a split headlamp setup upfront, accompanied by hefty fairing, lending it a modern and imposing stance.

Also Read: Top 5 Two Wheeler Brands In H1 FY26; Hero Leads Honda, TVS, Bajaj, Suzuki & RE

In terms of features, the RTX 300 will get a 5-inch TFT display with smartphone connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation and call/SMS alerts. In addition to this, riding modes, switchable rear ABS, traction control, cruise control and cornering ABS will be a part of the package.

The Apache RTX 300 will have a long list of rivals in its segment, including KTM 390 Adventure X, BMW G 310 GS, Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and Yezdi Adventure. With the recent reduction in GST rates, we expect an aggressive starting price for TVS’ first ADV.

The post TVS Apache RTX 300 ADV Expected To Launch This Month – Details appeared first on Gaadiwaadi.com - Latest Car & Bike News by Team GaadiWaadi.

from Gaadiwaadi.com – Latest Car & Bike News https://ift.tt/0uMqHUY

Mercedes-Benz Posts Highest Ever Monthly Sales In India In September 2025

GaadiWaadi -

Mercedes-Benz set multiple new sales records internally in September 2025, and thanks to Diwali, the momentum should continue this month

The onset of the festive season and the GST reduction together have helped Mercedes-Benz set a new record in India. The luxury carmaker registered its highest-ever monthly sales in September this year.

The Indian government rolled out the new GST rates on 22nd September to coincide with the start of Navratri. Mercedes-Benz says it sold more than 2,500 cars during the nine-day festival alone. In addition to the highest monthly sales, the company set a new record for the highest Navratri sales to date last month.

Indian buyers were largely putting big-ticket purchases like cars on hold since mid-August, when PM Modi announced on Independence Day that GST reforms were coming. Following the temporary slowdown, Mercedes-Benz appears to have made a strong comeback. The Stuttgart-based German carmaker reported 36% year-over-year growth in September 2025, though it has not disclosed the exact sales figures for either month.

Also Read: New Mercedes-Benz GLC EV Unveiled With 700+ Km Range, India-Bound?

Mercedes-Benz has set a new record for second-quarter sales in a fiscal year. The company delivered a total of 5,119 cars in Q2 FY2026, with Navratri sales alone contributing to about 50% of that volume. Top-End Luxury models, including the GLS, S-Class, Mercedes-Maybach, and Mercedes-AMG G63, accounted for a quarter of the sales during this quarter, with electric models specifically contributing to 8% of the quarterly volume.

In September 2025 specifically, the GLS, EQS SUV, and G63 saw their highest-ever monthly sales. The ‘Core Luxury’ models, which belong to global D and E segments, such as the C-Class, GLC, E-Class, and GLE, saw a 10% growth in Q2 FY2026. Mercedes-Benz says it set a new monthly sales record for its Core Luxury portfolio last month.

Also Read: GST 2.0: Mercedes-Benz Cars Prices Slashed By Up To Rs. 11 Lakh

Its large and executive models together account for 60% of its sales in India. The E-Class, offered in a long-wheelbase version, is the best-selling luxury car in India, and in Q2 FY2026, it recorded a 47% year-over-year growth.

The Entry Luxury line-up, comprising compact models like the A-Class sedan and GLA, saw a decline in sales, losing to more affordable rivals. Although it contributes only 15% of sales, the Entry Luxury or global C-segment remains strategically important, as it draws new customers to the brand and creates a base for future business in higher segments.

The post Mercedes-Benz Posts Highest Ever Monthly Sales In India In September 2025 appeared first on Gaadiwaadi.com - Latest Car & Bike News by Team GaadiWaadi.

from Gaadiwaadi.com – Latest Car & Bike News https://ift.tt/9n2NbZl

New Gen Hyundai Venue Front End Leaked Ahead Of Launch

GaadiWaadi -

New gen Hyundai Venue will go on sale on November 4, 2025 and it will get comprehensive revisions inside and out

The all-new Hyundai Venue has been spotted multiple times over the past few months heavily camouflaged during road tests. The next-gen compact SUV is among the most anticipated launches of the year and it has already been confirmed for an India debut on November 4, 2025. The front fascia of the production model has now been leaked fully.

A big change on the new Venue is its redesigned front fascia. The grille has been swapped for five rectangular bars stretched across the width and stacked in three layers. Though the overall proportions remain recognisable, the addition of prominent C-shaped LED daytime running lights housing the grille and split LED headlights add to a unique appeal.

Above the twin vertical headlamps lie turn signals and the bumper looks more aggressive. Taking inspiration from its larger siblings, the new Venue sports changes to the rear profile as well. However, noticeable changes do not extend to the sides profile barring the inclusion of a set of new alloy wheels as the pillars and roofline look largely identical to the outgoing model.

Also Read: Hyundai Creta Records Highest Monthly Sales Ever In Sep 2025

Source: Reddit (r/CarsIndia)

At the rear, the new-gen Hyundai Venue receives a redesigned bumper, a refreshed tailgate, updated tail lamp clusters and a new spoiler. Mechanically, the SUV is expected to retain its current engine lineup – continuing with the 1.2-litre petrol, 1.0-litre turbo petrol, and 1.5-litre diesel options without major changes in terms of performance.

Power and torque figures are expected to remain unchanged from the outgoing model while transmission options will continue to include the six-speed manual, seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, and six-speed torque converter automatic units. Just as the existing model, it will be sold in an expansive range with multiple single- and dual-tone colour choices.

Also Read: 3 All-New Hyundai Creta Rivals In 2026 You Should Wait For

Source: anurag choudhary/youtube

The most notable updates are inside the cabin where the new Venue receives a comprehensive overhaul. Highlights include a larger central touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, a dual-pane sunroof, ventilated front seats, a digital instrument cluster, and the introduction of a Level 2 ADAS suite.

The equipment list will comprise six airbags as standard, smart air purifier, automatic climate control, adjustable headrests, rear AC vents, armrests with cupholders and much more. In addition, Hyundai is expected to revamp the dashboard layout entirely and introduce a redesigned centre console and steering wheel while offering refreshed upholstery option.

The post New Gen Hyundai Venue Front End Leaked Ahead Of Launch appeared first on Gaadiwaadi.com - Latest Car & Bike News by Surendhar M.

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

New Mahindra Thar Variant Wise Features, Colours, Prices, Specs In Detail

GaadiWaadi -

New Mahindra Thar gains minor cosmetic updates and a host of new features inside the cabin but no mechanical changes have been made

Mahindra & Mahindra introduced the updated Thar 3-door a few days ago in India with prices starting from Rs. 9.99 lakh (ex-showroom). The lifestyle off-road SUV now features mild styling updates, added features, new connectivity technologies and colours. The new Thar’s exterior makeover includes a two-tone grille but its design remains the same.

Similarly, the bumper gets a dual-tone treatment as well and the familiar set of 18-inch alloy wheels has been carried over. The overall silhouette stays true to its boxy roots along with upright proportions evoking nostalgia. Buyers can now choose from six colour options including two new shades – Tango Red and Battleship Grey.

They accompany existing shades like Everest White, Aqua Marine, Galaxy Grey and Napoli Black. Step inside and the updates are immediately apparent. The cabin adopts a new black theme with a redesigned three-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel and revised dashboard. Mahindra has improved practicality with a sliding armrest, rear AC vents and door-mounted power windows.

Also Read: Mahindra Records 56,000+ Unit Sales In Sep 2025 In India

Engine	Power	Torque	Gearbox
2.0 L mStallion Petrol	150 hp	300–320 Nm	6MT / 6AT
2.2 L mHawk Diesel	130 hp	300 Nm	6MT / 6AT
1.5 L CRDe Diesel	117 hp	300 Nm	6MT

Other welcome additions include a dead pedal (for automatic variants), an internally operated fuel lid, a rear wash-and-wipe setup and an A-pillar assist handle for easier access. The biggest of updates lies with the new 26.03 cm HD touchscreen infotainment system which supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration.

In addition, Type-C USB ports are now available for both front and rear occupants. The second-gen Adventure Stats system tracks real-time off-road data such as altitude, temperature and steering direction. As for safety, hill-hold and descent control, ESP with roll-over mitigation and dual airbags come as standard.

Also Read: Mahindra Sells Nearly 65,000 Tractors With 50% Growth In Sep 2025

Variant	Engine	Drivetrain	Price (Rs.)
AXT MT	1.5 L Diesel	RWD	9.99 lakh
LXT MT	1.5 L Diesel	RWD	12.19 lakh
LXT AT	2.0 L Petrol	RWD	13.99 lakh
LXT 4WD MT / AT	2.0 L Petrol / 2.2 L Diesel	4WD	14.69 – 16.99 lakh

Mahindra offers three engine choices – one petrol and two diesel options – paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission. Both RWD and 4WD configurations are available.

Variant-Wise Features

AXT Variant

• Iconic headlamps with LED tail lamps

• R16 steel wheels

• New dashboard and steering wheel

• Rear AC vents with sliding armrest

• Height-adjustable driver’s seat

• Vinyl upholstery

• A-pillar entry assist handle

• Door-mounted power windows

• Electronic brake locking differential (RWD)

• Remote keyless entry

• Internally operated fuel lid

• Rear parking sensors

• Dual airbags

• ESP with roll-over mitigation

• Hill hold and hill descent control

• ABS with EBD and brake assist

• Rear demister

 

LXT Variant

• R18 deep silver alloy wheels with Thar branding

• Front fog lamps with DRLs

• Dual-tone front and rear bumpers

• Moulded side foot steps

• Fabric seat upholstery

• Electric driveline disconnect (4WD variants)

• 26.03 cm HD touchscreen infotainment with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay

• 4 speakers and 2 tweeters

• Steering-mounted audio and phone controls

• Adventure Statistics Gen II with off-road data

• Rear-view camera

• Cruise control

• Electrically adjustable ORVMs

• Rear wiper and washer

• Tyretronics (TPMS) and Tyre Direction Monitoring System (TDMS)

• Dead pedal (AT only)

The post New Mahindra Thar Variant Wise Features, Colours, Prices, Specs In Detail appeared first on Gaadiwaadi.com - Latest Car & Bike News by Surendhar M.

from Gaadiwaadi.com – Latest Car & Bike News https://ift.tt/Wt145f3

2026 Mahindra XUV700 Facelift – All Key Details We Know So Far

GaadiWaadi -

Updated 2026 Mahindra XUV700 will receive a host of enhancements inside and out but the familiar 2.0L petrol and 2.2L diesel engines will continue

Having been on sale for a fair stretch now, the Mahindra XUV700 appears to be gearing up for a major refresh to lure more customers in with plenty of updates. Spy shots of heavily camouflaged test prototypes suggest that the SUV is nearing the end of its development cycle with a market debut likely in the early part of 2026.

The update is expected to bring noticeable changes both inside the cabin and across the exterior design. With the updated three-door Thar went on sale recently and the facelifted Bolero Neo launching soon, we can expect the new XUV700 to help strengthen the brand’s SUV portfolio further. Mahindra also has a series of new EVs under in the works.

Even under heavy camouflage, changes to the front are evident as a reprofiled bumper and updated headlamp detailing can be seen in the spy pictures. Interestingly, Mahindra seems to be retaining the flush-fitting door handles that became one of the XUV700’s signature design cues. Apart from the reworked nose, the overall silhouette appears largely unchanged.

Also Read: Mahindra Developing NU_IQ Based SUVs With Flexible Powertrain Options

The side panels gave little away in terms of any major design alterations. Mahindra is expected to introduce a new set of alloy wheel designs with the facelift – giving the SUV a more expressive stance. The overall dimensions, mechanical bits and glasshouse layout are likely to stay identical to the current model but new paint schemes are expected to be available.

At the rear, Mahindra seems to have retained the familiar tail lamp silhouette though the internal lighting signature looks slightly reworked. The bumper design also appears to have been revised. Step inside, and the facelifted XUV700 is expected to feature an upgraded cabin taking inspiration from Mahindra’s XEV 9e and BE 6.

Also Read: 6 Upcoming Tata & Mahindra SUVs To Drool About In India

Image Source: TamilMotors360

It has to be remembered that the XUV 700 based XEV 7e three-row electric SUV is also in the pipeline. Back to the ICE facelift, it will more likely pack an upmarket equipment roster than before. Among the key highlights could be a triple-screen setup, front ventilated seats, a more capable Level 2 ADAS suite, etc.

Customers will also get a 360-degree camera system, ambient lighting, and a full-LED lighting package. Convenience features such as automatic climate control, wireless charging, USB Type-C ports, and extensive connected-car functions will continue – complemented by multiple airbags and adjustable headrests.

The post 2026 Mahindra XUV700 Facelift – All Key Details 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/CNDl9XS

New-Gen Venue To Launch Soon In India – To Give Tougher Competition To Rivals

GaadiWaadi -

The new-gen Venue will be modern, premium and upmarket than the present model to give tougher competition to the rivals in the Indian market

The new-gen Hyundai Venue will finally go on sale from Nov 4, 2025 in the domestic market in India. It has been spotted testing on several instances with camouflage on the Indian roads. The spy images reveal that the new-gen model would come with a complete cosmetic overhaul in terms of exterior design while the cabin will also get a plethora of never-seen-before segment-first features. Mechanically, it is likely to continue with the current crop of petrol and diesel engines with the ongoing gearbox choices.

The spy-shots indicate that the new-gen Venue will retain the boxy silhouette and upright stance. However, the front fascia will be new with heavily redesigned grille, split headlamp setup and vertical LED DRLs. The side profile will largely be the same except for the newly-designed alloy wheels. The thicker body cladding will be present around the wheel arches.

The rear profile will also be different as compared to the older model with the inclusion of a new connected LED taillamp cluster. The rear windshield has also been redeveloped along with the bumper, which is now sharper and aggressive than before. Most of the styling cues are inspired from the bigger Hyundai SUVs such as the Creta and Palisade.

Also Read: Hyundai Creta Records Highest Monthly Sales Ever In Sep 2025

Image Source: PowerStroke

The cabin of the 2025 Hyundai Venue has not been caught on camera yet. However, it is believed to come loaded with an array of features such as Level 2 ADAS, Ventilated seats and 360-degree camera among others. The dashboard and centre console is also expected to come with an updated design. It is also likely to boast of the bigger 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

Under the bonnet, the new-gen Venue will carry the same petrol and diesel engines. The 83 bhp naturally-aspirated 1.2L and 118 bhp 1.0L turbocharged petrol engines will continue at the helm along with the 98 bhp 1.5L diesel motor. While the 1.2L engine will only be available with a 5-speed manual gearbox, the 1.0L petrol mill will be offered with 6-speed manual and 7-speed DCT units. The diesel engine will be paired with a 6-speed manual transmission.

Also Read: 3 All-New Hyundai Creta Rivals In 2026 You Should Wait For

The new-gen Hyundai Venue is likely to be a bit pricier than the ongoing model, which comes in a range of Rs 7.26-12.32 lakh (ex-showroom). The ongoing model had become cheaper by up to Rs 1.33 lakh due to the recent GST cuts. The Union govt had reduced the tax on petrol and diesel SUVs to an uniform 18 percent from 29 percent and 31 percent, respectively.

The new-gen Hyundai Venue will rival Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Tata Nexon, Kia Sonet, Mahindra XUV 3XO and Skoda Kylaq in the Indian market. The bookings of the new-gen model are likely to start post Diwali festival, which falls on Oct 22, 2025.

The post New-Gen Venue To Launch Soon In India – To Give Tougher Competition To Rivals appeared first on Gaadiwaadi.com - Latest Car & Bike News by Team GaadiWaadi.

from Gaadiwaadi.com – Latest Car & Bike News https://ift.tt/901pOtU