Hyundai Crater Debuts Previewing Compact Off-Road SUV

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Hyundai Crater Concept looks to be created to manoeuvre through rough terrain and is developed in California

Hyundai didn’t try to dazzle with numbers or promises at Automobility LA 2025. Instead, it hosted the world premiere of the Crater Concept as a design statement – a compact off-roader built to explore ideas more than sales charts according to the brand. Developed in California, it shows Hyundai’s current obsession with lifestyle mobility solutions.

The Hyundai Crater Concept looks to be created to manoeuvre through rough terrain. Its tight overhangs, upright stance and compact footprint suggest that it could cater to small narrow trails while being muscular enough to survive them. Every panel feels like it has been shaped with function in mind, following Hyundai’s evolving “Art of Steel” identity.

The lower half of the vehicle boasts massive protective skid plate which holds together the design visually and mechanically. Above it, wide fenders stretch over oversized 33-inch off-road tyres mounted on geometric and hexagon-inspired wheels. Hyundai says the pattern reflects a cosmic impact but on the ground it looks like something built to claw its way out of loose sand, rock and mud.

There is a roof rack designed for actual gear and lighting. Steel cables rise from the hood to the roof for branch protection when the trail closes in. Even the recovery hook hides a small party trick doubling as a bottle opener. The side mirrors detach to become portable lights or cameras – a clever solution for campsites or tight recovery situations.

On the inside, Hyundai ditches the usual premium SUV template. The cabin feels more like a controlled environment for off-grid travel. A full-width head-up display replaces traditional screens while the infotainment follows a bring-your-own-device concept allowing users to slot in their own gadgets instead of relying on built-in systems. The dashboard resembles bent steel with soft materials layered over it – lit subtly through perforations.

The seats are heavily bolstered, wrapped in rugged materials and paired with four-point harnesses. A visible roll cage runs through the structure with grab handles integrated for stability over rough terrain. There is also practical gear pre-installed: a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, physical off-road controls and even a removable Bluetooth speaker.

Visually, the matte Dune Gold paint captures the tone of California’s deserts and coastlines – shifting between muted green and warm gold under light. Meanwhile, the Black Ember theme focuses on black leather, Alcantara and metal to wear in rather than wear out. Hyundai has not confirmed whether it will enter production or not but the intention has always been there for a lifestyle off-road SUV.

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New Kia Seltos Spied In India Ahead Of Debut Next Month

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Kia expected to launch an all-new Seltos in India sometime in the first half of 2026 with multiple changes inside and out

The next-gen Kia Seltos’ road testing is in full swing ahead of its world premiere on 10th December. A camouflaged test mule has been spied in India again, giving a peek at the upcoming model’s exterior. Compared to the conventionally designed current model, the next-gen Kia Seltos will have a much stronger road presence. A bolder exterior with offbeat design elements and larger dimensions will be the chief reasons behind this change.

As visible in the spy shots, the next-gen Kia Seltos will have a more upright front that helps it make a more powerful impression. A boxier grille, squarish headlamps, separately placed vertical daytime running lights, and a more prominent skid plate would further elevate the tougher look, while bringing a hint of funkiness to the character.

Rumour has it that the next-gen Kia Seltos will be 100 mm longer than the current model, which measures 4,365 mm. The significant growth in length is clearly evident in the side profile. The spy shot suggests Kia has stretched the wheelbase and also the rear overhang, which means customers can look forward to more rear legroom and knee room, as well as increased boot space. For reference, the current model offers 433 litres of boot space.

Also Read: New 7-Seater Kia Hybrid SUV Spotted Testing In India, Launch Next Year?

Image Source: Pradeep Shah

At the rear, the next-gen Kia Seltos will leave a more lasting impression with new vertical tail lamps inspired by the Kia EV5, the South Korean automaker’s pure electric alternative to the Kia Sportage. The tail lamps will be connected via a light band.

The interior of the next-gen Kia Seltos will also be completely new, right from the dashboard to the centre console, steering wheel, door cards, and seats. Targeting tech-savvy drivers, Kia will likely offer the 2026 Seltos with features like a power tailgate, the Trinity Panoramic Display that integrates a 12.3-inch HD instrument cluster, a 5-inch HD HVAC touchscreen, and a 12.3-inch HD infotainment touchscreen, a dual wireless charger, electrically adjustable and ventilated front seats, and customisable ambient lighting.

Also Read: All-New Kia Telluride Revealed With Big Changes Inside & Out

Image Source: b.choww/Instagram

Kia will likely launch the next-gen Seltos in India with the same 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol, 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol, and 1.5-litre turbocharged diesel engine options as the current model. A 6-speed manual transmission will likely be standard, and the company should offer a CVT option for the naturally aspirated petrol unit, a 7-speed DCT option for the turbocharged petrol engine, and a 6-speed AT for the turbocharged diesel unit.

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BMW F 450 GS To Likely Launch In India Next Month – All Key Details

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BMW F 450 GS uses a newly developed 420 cc parallel-twin motor producing 48 hp maximum power and 43 Nm of peak torque

BMW Motorrad appears to be preparing to bring the F 450 GS to India next month as it could be showcased at the India Bike Week in Goa, scheduled between December 19 and 20. Positioned below the F 850 GS globally, it was first shown at EICMA and is already available in several global markets.

The production BMW F 450 GS stays gets a tall stance, beak-like front end and X-shaped LED headlamp. It looks every inch a GS – just scaled down for wider usability. At its heart is a newly developed 420 cc parallel-twin motor featuring a 135-degree crankpin offset. It gives the engine a more engaging character while keeping vibrations well controlled through a balance shaft according to the brand.

The powertrain produces 48 hp and 43 Nm and is paired with a six-speed transmission with a slipper/assist clutch as standard. Fuel efficiency is rated at around 3.8 litres per 100 km with a claimed range comfortably crossing the 350 km mark in the international markets. One of the key features is BMW’s semi-automatic clutch setup which reduces the need for manual clutch use during starts, traffic riding and off-road manoeuvres.

Also Read: India-Bound BMW F 450 GS Breaks Cover – Detailed Specs Revealed

It works alongside the Shift Assistant Pro – allowing smooth clutch-less gear changes. While the top GS Trophy variant gets this system as standard, it will be optional on the lower trims. The adv is built around a new tubular steel frame and weighs just 178 kg in ready-to-ride condition. Suspension duties are handled by KYB components with 43 mm upside-down forks at the front and a monoshock at the rear.

Higher variants receive adjustable sport suspension. Braking is handled by Brembo at the front and ByBre at the rear – supported by cornering ABS, traction control, engine brake control and Dynamic Brake Control. BMW is offering the F 450 GS in four variants: Basic, Exclusive, Sport and GS Trophy. Each step up adds more adventure-focused hardware like off-road footrests, aluminium engine guards, hand guards, sport suspension and exclusive colour schemes such as Racing Red and Racing Blue Metallic.

Also Read: BMW Group India Achieves Record Breaking Sales So Far In 2025

Riding modes include Rain, Road and Enduro as standard with Enduro Pro available on higher trims. The BMW F 450 GS also gains a 6.5-inch TFT screen with Bluetooth connectivity, navigation support, ride data and smartphone integration. Heated grips and a USB-C charging port are standard. If BMW decides to price it aggressively, we can expect it to carry a starting tag of around Rs. 4.70 lakh (ex-showroom).

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Mahindra BE 6, XEV 9e Mark First Anniversary With Benefits Up To Rs. 1.55 Lakhs

Mahindra marks EV anniversary with benefits as new XEV 9S debut approaches

Mahindra’s first two all-electric SUVs – the BE 6 and the XEV 9e – have completed a year in the market, and selected authorised dealerships are celebrating the milestone with benefits worth up to Rs. 1.55 lakhs. The limited-period offers include a mix of discounts, accessories and charging incentives aimed at drawing more buyers toward the brand’s INGLO-based EV lineup.

As part of the benefit package, customers can receive accessories valued at Rs. 30,000, corporate discounts up to Rs. 25,000, and an exchange or loyalty bonus of up to Rs. 30,000. Additionally, Mahindra is extending complimentary public charging credits worth Rs. 20,000. Buyers will also get a 7.2 kW AC fast charger at no extra cost – equipment that normally carries a price tag of Rs. 50,000.

The BE 6 is priced between Rs. 18.90 lakh and Rs. 26.90 lakh (ex-showroom) and comes in six variants. It is offered with 59 kWh and 79 kWh battery packs, delivering a claimed driving range of up to 535 km and 682 km (IDC), respectively. Both configurations feature a single electric motor, producing 228 BHP and 380 Nm in the 59 kWh version, while the larger-capacity model generates 282 BHP with the same torque output.

The XEV 9e, positioned slightly higher, is offered in five variants priced from Rs. 21.90 lakhs to Rs. 30.50 lakhs (ex-showroom). It also gets the choice of 59 kWh and 79 kWh battery options, rated at 542 km and 656 km (ARAI) of range. Its performance figures mirror those of the BE 6.

Mahindra is also preparing to expand its electric SUV portfolio. The company has confirmed that the XEV 9S, a three-row EV SUV, will make its debut on November 27, 2025. It will become the third model built on Mahindra’s born-electric INGLO platform, following the BE 6 and XEV 9e.

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5 New Electric Scooters to Launch Next Year In India – Yamaha To Ather

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Yamaha is ready to debut in the electric scooter segment in the Indian market with the launch of Aerox E and EC-06 in early 2026

The electric scooter segment is the fastest-growing category in the entire EV market, with the widest range of products on sale. With the sales numbers growing at a rapid pace in India, new e-scooters are in the pipeline from several two-wheeler manufacturers. In this article, we will look at the 5 new electric scooters that will launch next year in India.

1. Yamaha Aerox-E

The all-electric version of the Aerox was recently revealed by Yamaha in India. Scheduled to go on sale early next year, i.e. 2026, the Aerox-E gets a 3 kWh battery pack, mated to a 9.4 kW electric motor, producing 48 Nm of peak torque. The claimed range of the electric scooter stands at 106 kilometres.

In terms of design, it sports a familiar styling to its ICE counterpart, albeit with some minor electric-specific touches. The Yamaha Aerox-E offers three riding modes, i.e. Eco, Standard and Power, along with a dedicated reverse mode. The e-scooter comes with features like a smart key system, a 5-inch TFT instrument cluster, Bluetooth connectivity, traction control and more.

Also Read: 10 New Yamaha Models & 20+ Updated 2Ws In 2025-26 Confirmed

2. Yamaha EC-06

Alongside the Aerox-E, Yamaha also unveiled the EC-06, which will be launched in the first quarter of 2026. It is based on a production model from River, targeting a broader range of customers. Talking about specification, the EC-06 gets a 4 kWh high-capacity fixed battery pack with a claimed range of 160 kilometres on a single charge.

It is mated to a 4.5 kW electric motor, tuned to produce a peak power of 6.7 kW. In terms of features, the maxi electric scooter gets an LCD cluster, built-in telematics, three riding modes, reverse mode and more. The production of the Yamaha EC-06 will be handled by River Mobility.

3. New-Gen Bajaj Chetak

Pic Source: Rushlane

Bajaj Chetak is currently one of the best-selling electric scooters in the Indian market. Recently, a new version of the e-scooter was spotted testing for the first time, hinting at the next-gen model of the Chetak EV. Talking about the changes, the spy shots gave away the new tail light, new rear tyre hugger, a flatter seat and a fresh switchgear console. Expected to launch sometime next year, the Chetak EV will likely retain the existing 3.5 kWh battery pack, with a claimed range of around 150 kilometres on a single charge.

Also Read: New Bajaj Pulsars, Sub-350cc KTMs & Triumphs, New Chetak Coming

4. Simple Energy New Family-Oriented E-Scooter

The Bengaluru-based electric vehicle manufacturer is working on a new family-oriented electric scooter for the Indian market. The development came to light via a recent design patent filed by the brand, highlighting a minimalistic design language.

We could spot a long flat seat, an LED headlamp, chunky side body panels, and a flat floorboard in the patent images. While the technical details are scarce at the moment, the upcoming e-scooter will stray far away from the company’s current range of sporty models. Simple Energy’s family-oriented electric scooter is expected to launch sometime next year.

5. Ather EL

Ather Energy is working on multiple new electric scooters for the Indian market. The company showcased the EL platform in August this year as the next-gen EV architecture, which will underpin a range of new e-scooters. The highlight of the new EL platform includes an advanced electronic braking system (AEBS) and a new Charge Drive Controller with an integrated on-board charger.

The EL01 Concept was also showcased by the Indian EV startup, which will be a family-oriented electric scooter. The first scooter from the brand’s EL range will go on sale around the festive season of 2026.

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New Tata Sierra Mid-Spec Variant Teased With Dual Screens & HUD

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The latest teaser of new Tata Sierra shows an interior with twin screens and a head-up display which could be destined for the mid variant

The all-new Tata Sierra has been stealing the spotlight in recent weeks and it was revealed a few days ago. A new teaser of the soon-launching SUV’s interior shows a dual screen layout. What’s interesting is that the brand had showcased the Sierra with a triple screen setup during its official unveil on November 15 but this new teaser hints that there could be different display configurations depending on the variant.

The teaser also shows a feature that was missing earlier – a head-up display. Yes, the dual-screen setup gets a HUD which displays key driving information directly on the windshield for reduced distraction. Strangely, the triple screen layout shown at the unveiling didn’t feature this at all – raising questions about how Tata plans to position these interior packages across the variant lineup.

Another noticeable difference lies in the driver’s instrument cluster design. The dual screen version uses a more traditional binnacle for the driver’s display – giving it a slightly more conventional look. In contrast, the triple screen version had a panel stretching across the dashboard. It could indicate that the three screens might be reserved for higher trims while the dual-screen setup could make its way into mid-range variants.

Also Read: Tata Motors Mulling CNG And Hybrid Variants Of Premium Models

Tata has not yet clarified which trims will get which screen configuration and that’s where the speculation begins. We already know that the SUV will come equipped with an automatic climate control system, ventilated seats at the front, a panoramic sunroof and electrically adjustable front seats with memory function for the driver, powered tailgate and Level 2 ADAS.

It also gains a new floating centre console, wireless charging facility, terrain modes, a 360-degree camera system, EPB, six airbags as standard, a 12-speaker audio with Dolby Atmos, a four-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated Tata logo as in some other Tata models and more. The ICE-spec Sierra will be sold with a new 1.5L petrol engine in NA and turbo guises.

Also Read: 4 Much Awaited New Midsize ICE SUVs Coming Soon – Mahindra To Tata

The latter kicks out 168 PS maximum power and 280 Nm of peak torque. The gasoline mill will be accompanied by the familiar 1.5L diesel unit producing 120 PS and 260 Nm. Both manual and automatic transmission options will be on offer.

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MG Motor To Introduce 2 Brand New SUVs Next Year – Key Details

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Indo-Chinese joint venture working on aesthetic and functional upgrades for two of its ICE SUVs, likely with plans to introduce them in 2026

Following a strong start last decade, the MG Hector has lost ground in India. Despite a facelift in 2023, the Chinese brand’s first model in India has not seen much traction. Now, JSW MG Motor appears to be working on a second facelift for the MG Hector to improve its sales.

Recent spy shots have shown the company testing its prototype on the highway near its factory in Halol, Gujarat. While locals would know these occurrences are a common sight around here, experts believe the latest one is not part of the regular testing.

The partial camouflage on the spied MG Hector could be hiding fresh cosmetic changes aimed at giving the model a new lease of life. It seems JSW MG Motor is planning to introduce a new radiator grille. Additionally, there could be a few revisions not present on this test mule, including restyled bumpers, tweaked headlight and tail light graphics, and new wheels.

Also Read: MG Windsor EV Surpasses 50,000 Unit Sales Milestone In Just Over A Year

Pic Source: Rushlane

The facelifted MG Hector may have limited interior changes, such as new upholstery, colour scheme, and trim materials. JSW MG Motor may use this opportunity to roll out minor software improvements for the instrument cluster and infotainment system. There’s no word on any mechanical changes, which would mean the same 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol and 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engines, paired with a 6-speed MT or a CVT (petrol-only), respectively.

Also in the pipeline is the MG Majestor, the facelifted version of the MG Gloster that was showcased at Auto Expo 2025 in January. The updated model features a notably aggressive exterior with a massive front grille, prominent skid plates, split headlamps, chunky wheel arch cladding, etc. Also new on the outside are connected tail lamps and six-double-spoke alloy wheels.

Also Read: JSW MG Motor Crosses One Lakh EV Sales Milestone In India

Inside, the MG Majestor may feature a slightly redesigned dashboard with new AC vents, a new 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a larger, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.

Additional comfort and convenience features like a ventilated front passenger seat and a power tailgate may further enhance the appeal of the Toyota Fortuner. Lastly, Level 2 advanced driver assistance systems will likely bring a significant safety improvement. No major mechanical changes are expected in this model either.

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