Maruti Ciaz Scores 1 Star In Global NCAP Crash Test [Video]

Maruti Ciaz scores modest Global NCAP safety rating as segment rivals move ahead

Road safety watchdog Global NCAP has published the latest crash test results for the India-spec Maruti Ciaz, awarding the midsize sedan a 1-star rating for adult occupant protection and a 3-star rating for child occupant protection.

The tested Ciaz is equipped with two airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), ISOFIX child seat anchors and seat belt reminders as standard. Despite these inclusions, its overall performance reflects limitations linked to its ageing platform and safety architecture.

Adult Occupant Protection

The sedan scored 20.86 points out of a possible 34 for adult occupant protection. In the frontal offset deformable barrier test, it earned 7.36/16 points. Protection for the driver’s head was rated good, while the chest and thighs received marginal protection. Protection for the driver’s feet was assessed as poor. The front passenger’s protection ranged from good to adequate.

In the side movable deformable barrier test, the Ciaz scored 12.49/16 points, although protection for the driver’s chest was rated weak. Global NCAP did not conduct the side pole impact test, citing the absence of curtain airbags. The bodyshell and footwell area were both rated as unstable and not capable of handling higher crash loads.

Child Occupant Protection

For child safety, the Ciaz achieved 28.57 points out of 49, translating to a 3-star rating. The car performed strongly in dynamic testing, scoring a full 24/24 points, with both the 18-month-old and 3-year-old child dummies showing good protection in frontal and side impact tests.

However, the overall score was pulled down by lower marks in child restraint system (CRS) installation and vehicle assessment. The sedan scored 4.57/12 for CRS installation and 0/13 in vehicle assessment. Key shortcomings include the absence of three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, failure of the CRS installation for the rear centre seat and no provision to disable the front passenger airbag when using a rearward-facing child seat.

Position in the segment

The Maruti Ciaz was discontinued recently and in comparison, its rivals on sale such as the Hyundai Verna, Skoda Slavia and Volkswagen Virtus have all secured 5-star Global NCAP ratings for both adult and child occupant protection, highlighting the gap between the Ciaz and newer-generation sedans.

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4 New Midsize Sedans To Be Launched In 2026 – Hyundai To Skoda

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From Volkswagen and Skoda to Hyundai and Honda, all the carmakers present in the midsize segment are set to launch new models next year

From the all-new Tata Sierra to the all-new Kia Seltos, the all-new Renault Duster, and the first-ever Maruti e Vitara, SUVs are stealing the limelight in the midsize car segment right now. In just a few months, though, the attention will turn towards sedans. Four new midsize sedans are planned to be launched next year, all priced in the range of 10-20 lakh rupees (ex-showroom).

The new Hyundai Verna, a facelifted version of the current model launched in March 2023, will be launched sometime in the early part of the second quarter. The redesigned model will likely have a sharper and sportier design inspired by the eighth-generation Sonata, widely expected to be phased out next year.

Spy shots have already confirmed that the front bumper, split headlamps, and front grilles will carry a fresh look on the 2026 Hyundai Verna. The 16-inch alloy wheels, the connected tail lamps, and the rear bumper should also come in a new design.

Also Read: 3 New Affordable Hyundai Models To Be Launched In India Next Year

Source: TeamBHP

Interior changes will certainly include larger, 12.3-inch cockpit displays, both running the new ccNC operating system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto should be standard and not require an adapter. The engine and transmission choices are expected to be the same as the current model.

In the second half of the year, the Skoda Slavia will get a facelift, and a similar update will follow for the VW Virtus soon after. Both Volkswagen Group models are likely to receive a number of cosmetic updates, including restyled bumpers, tweaked headlamps and tail lamps, redesigned grilles, and new 16-inch alloy wheels.

Also Read: 2026 Skoda Kushaq Facelift India Launch Confirmed In Jan 2026

Inside, the 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system will likely gain major software improvements and new functions. An improved reverse parking camera and an array of Level 2 advanced driver assistance systems should enhance safety. Both the Skoda Slavia and VW Virtus will carry over the current engines and 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmissions, but their 6-speed automatic transmission will likely be replaced with an 8-speed unit, expected to be manufactured locally.

Also planned in the second half of the year is a second facelift for the fifth-generation Honda City. There’s no word on the changes planned, but we expect no major revisions, given that an all-new model is planned to replace the fifth-generation model in 2028. Minor tweaks to the grilles and bumpers, new 16-inch alloy wheels, and new colour options should round up the majority of the updates.

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3 New Affordable Hyundai Models To Be Launched In India Next Year

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In addition to the facelifted Ioniq 5, three mass-market Hyundais are likely to be launched in India next year

With the Creta Electric having received a lukewarm response, the all-new Venue has been the only exciting launch from Hyundai this year. Next year, the company will launch three models priced from anywhere between 5 and 12 lakh rupees (ex-showroom), targeting both budget and aspirational buyers.

Hyundai’s first major launch next year is likely to be the facelifted Verna. The company is already testing the updated model in South Korea and India, and we expect it to unveil it as early as April. Spy shots have revealed that the new Verna will have a front-end inspired by the global D-segment Sonata.

A sharper bumper, a revised split headlamp setup, and a new radiator grille are expected to give the refreshed Verna a sportier look at the front. New 16-inch alloy wheels, tweaked rear lights, and a redesigned rear bumper are also among the expected changes.

Also Read: Hyundai’s Hybrid Roadmap Takes Shape With 3 New SUVs Lined Up

Source: TeamBHP

Inside, the refreshed Verna should feature a new digital instrument cluster and touchscreen infotainment system, both running the ccNC software that debuted in the seventh-generation Grandeur three years ago. The engine and transmission choices are unlikely to be any different from the current model.

About two to three months after the Verna, Hyundai will likely give the Exter its mid-cycle refresh, aiming for greater competitiveness against the Tata Punch. No details about the facelifted Exterior are available at this point. However, it is safe to assume the updated model will feature new restyled bumpers, new 15-inch alloy wheels, tweaked front and rear lights, and some new comfort and convenience features, while carrying over the current 1.2-litre petrol and petrol-CNG engines and 5-speed manual and automated manual transmissions.

Also Read: Hyundai Model Wise Sales Nov 2025; Creta, Venue, Aura, Exter, i20, Alcazar

Current Exter

Around the festive season, possibly in September, Hyundai will likely launch the second-generation Bayon in India. The company never brought the first-generation model to our market, but it is planning the next one as a coupe-styled, more premium alternative to the all-new Venue. The latest model will debut an all-new 1.2-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine that will be built locally and later be used even in hybrid models. We expect the all-new Hyundai Bayon to be priced from around 8.50 lakh rupees (ex-showroom).

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Top 10 Bikes Nov 2025 – Splendor, Shine, Pulsar, Raider, Apache, Classic

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In the month of November 2025, Hero Splendor sat on top ahead of Shine, Pulsar, HF Deluxe and Apache in the bike sales charts in India

The Hero Splendor continued to dominate the Indian two-wheeler market in November 2025 comfortably retaining the top position. Sales stood at 3,48,569 units, a massive jump from 2,93,828 units recorded in November 2024. It resulted in a healthy year-on-year growth of 18.63 per cent – adding over 54,000 units. The numbers clearly show Splendor’s unmatched appeal among everyday commuters.

The Honda Shine finished in the second place with a huge performance. The motorcycle posted sales of 1,86,490 units – up sharply from 1,45,530 units last year. With an increase of 40,960 units, Shine registered a notable 28.15 per cent growth. Bajaj Pulsar ranked third but was one of the few models to witness a marginal decline.

The month of November 2025 volumes stood at 1,13,802 units compared to 1,14,467 units in November 2024 – resulting in a slight drop of 665 units. Despite the dip, Pulsar’s numbers remain stable, showing that the sporty commuter lineup continues to endure consistent demand. The range is currently seeing a mid-cycle refresh.

Also Read: TVS Unveils Ronin Kensai & Apache RR310 Speedline Custom Bikes At MotoSoul 5.0

Model	Nov 2025	Nov 2024	YoY Growth
1. Hero Splendor	3,48,569	2,93,828	+18.63%
2. Honda Shine	1,86,490	1,45,530	+28.15%
3. Bajaj Pulsar	1,13,802	1,14,467	-0.58%
4. Hero HF Deluxe	91,082	61,245	+48.72%
5. TVS Apache	48,764	35,610	+36.94%
6. Royal Enfield Classic 350	34,793	27,514	+26.46%
7. Honda CB Unicorn 150	32,968	30,678	+7.46%
8. TVS Raider	32,853	31,769	+3.41%
9. Bajaj Platina	32,040	44,578	-28.13%
10. Hero Glamour	25,014	12,145	+105.96%

The Hero HF Deluxe emerged as one of the strongest gainers in the list. Sales surged to 91,082 units from 61,245 units a year earlier – recording a sharp growth of 48.72 per cent. The volume jump of nearly 30,000 units highlights renewed traction in the entry-level commuter segment – especially in price-sensitive markets where affordability and low running costs matter most.

The TVS Apache recorded solid growth as well – selling 48,764 units in November 2025 against 35,610 units last year. The increase of 13,154 units resulted in a 36.94 per cent rise. Meanwhile, Royal Enfield Classic 350 also posted steady gains – climbing to 34,793 units from 27,514 units with a 26.46 per cent year-on-year improvement.

Also Read: Top 10 2Ws Sold In Nov 2025 – Splendor, Activa, Apache, Pulsar, Shine, Jupiter

Among the remaining models, Honda CB Unicorn 150 saw moderate growth at 7.46 per cent while TVS Raider posted a smaller yet positive increase of 3.41 per cent. Bajaj Platina, however, faced a notable decline, dropping 28.13 per cent year-on-year. Hero Glamour stood out with the highest growth rate – more than doubling its volumes to 25,014 units registering a massive 105.96 per cent jump.

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All-New Kia Seltos Production Begins In India Ahead Of Jan 2 Launch

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The second generation Kia Seltos will be available in an expansive range and is bigger than the outgoing model with several feature additions

Kia India has officially kicked off production of the all-new Seltos at its Anantapur manufacturing facility in Andhra Pradesh. The company has confirmed that prices for the new-gen Seltos will be revealed on January 2, 2026 with deliveries to follow shortly after. The latest Seltos gets a host of revisions inside and out in the domestic market.

The Anantapur plant holds significance for Kia as it was the birthplace of the original Seltos when the brand entered the Indian market in 2019. Since then, the facility has grown into a key global production hub – supporting both local sales and exports. Equipped with advanced automation and stringent quality standards, the plant continues to play a central role in Kia’s global manufacturing strategy.

Dimensionally, the all-new Kia Seltos establishes a commanding presence than the outgoing model. At 4,460 mm in length, 1,830 mm in width and with a 2,690 mm wheelbase, it becomes the longest and among the widest SUVs in its segment. The proportional changes translate into improved cabin room, enhanced stability and a more planted drive across varied road conditions.

On the outside, the SUV features the latest iteration Kia’s Opposites United design language. Standout elements include the new Digital Tiger Face, Ice Cube LED projection headlamps with a dynamic welcome function, automatic flush door handles, sporty crystal-cut alloy wheels with neon-finished brake calipers and a more muscular overall stance.

Inside the cabin, the centrepiece is the massive 30-inch panoramic display – integrating the instrument cluster and infotainment system coupled with a Bose 8-speaker premium audio setup. The cabin also benefits from connected tech such as wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Smart Key proximity unlocking, the updated Kia Connect 2.0 suite and over-the-air software updates including remote diagnostics.

Underpinning the new Seltos is Kia’s India-first global K3 platform – engineered for higher structural strength, improved crash performance and better NVH control. The platform also enables better suspension tuning which results in better ride comfort and sharper handling. Safety has been significantly strengthened with a 24-feature standard safety package.

It is complemented by Level 2 ADAS offering 21 autonomous functions. Powertrain options remain familiar including the 1.5L NA petrol, 1.5L turbo petrol, and 1.5L diesel – mated to different transmission choices ranging from manual to dual-clutch and torque converter automatics. The lineup spans four trims – HTE, HTK, HTX and GTX – along with multiple option packs and the exclusive X-Line styling package.

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Tata Harrier & Safari Petrol – Top 5 Things To Know

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Petrol variants of the Tata Harrier and Tata Safari substantially differentiated from the Sierra petrol and bring along a host of new features

Nearly six years into its launch, the Tata Harrier is finally set to receive a petrol engine. The same goes for the Tata Safari, its three-row version, which went on sale nearly four years ago. Here are five things to know about Harrier petrol and Safari petrol:

1. Related but not identical to the Sierra petrol

The Tata Harrier petrol and Tata Safari petrol employ a 1.5-litre Hyperion turbocharged direct injection engine that is technically similar to the one seen in the Tata Sierra petrol. However, the tuning is noticeably different.

In the Sierra, the Hyperion petrol engine produces 158 hp at 5,000 rpm and 255 Nm of torque at 1,750-4,000 rpm. In the Harrier and Safari, it develops 168 hp at 5,000 rpm and 280 Nm of torque at 1,750-3,500 rpm. Even between the two larger models, the mapping is different, with the Safari, which lugs higher weight carrying six or seven occupants, getting more torque from a lower engine speed.

Also Read: Tata Confirms Launch Of Sierra EV, New Punch EV & Avinya Series In 2026

2. Two transmissions

Unlike in the Sierra, the Hyperion petrol engine in the Harrier and Safari will be available with not only a 6-speed automatic transmission but also a 6-speed manual transmission. The manual option will allow Tata Motors to offer the Harrier petrol and Safari petrol at lower prices. Additionally, the new engine may deliver a slightly higher fuel economy with the manual transmission compared to the automatic one.

3. Lighter, more agile

The Tata Harrier and Tata Safari are inherently heavy SUVs, and their new petrol engine offers a substantial weight advantage over the diesel mill that has been standard so far. It shaves off 80 kgs from the weight, improving handling and making the driving experience more confidence-inspiring.

Also Read: Tata EV Sales Cross 2.5 Lakh Units In Just 5 Years, Nexon EV Leads

4. Samsung Neo QLED display

The petrol variants mark the arrival of a new 14.53-inch Samsung Neo QLED display in the Tata Harrier and Tata Safari. This is the same mini-LED display that has been available in the Tata Harrier.ev since launch. The new display has a peak brightness of 1,200 nits, ensuring superb daylight visibility, and a wide 95% NTSC colour gamut for richer, more lifelike colours. It is more aesthetically appealing as well, with bezels measuring less than 5 millimetres.

5. New comfort and convenience features

In addition to the Samsung Neo QLED display, the petrol variants bring a new kit of comfort and convenience features to the Tata Harrier and Tata Safari, including a sliding armrest, a dash cam, a digital IRVM that can double as the dash cam monitor, front and rear camera washers, and a memory function for the ORVMs.

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Mahindra XUV 7XO To Be Launched With New AX9L Top-End Grade

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Mahindra’s new family SUV replacing the XUV 700 next month to get both a new name and a new trim structure

Along with its facelift next month, the Mahindra XUV 700 is going more upmarket in terms of quality, technology, comfort, and refinement. In addition to a new name—Mahindra XUV 7XO, it will gain a new top-end trim, called ‘AX9L’.

AX9L is likely to be positioned above another new ‘AX9’ grade, with the “L” in the name expected to stand for “Luxury Pack”. Premium features such as automatically extending flush door handles, sequential turn indicators, a 12.3-inch front passenger touchscreen, front passenger memory seat with power boss mode, ventilated second-row seats, and driver knee airbag will likely be reserved for the Mahindra XUV 7XO AX9L.

A 2.2-litre diesel engine, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel drive system, has also been confirmed for the XUV 7XO AX9L. That said, we expect Mahindra to offer this diesel engine with a 6-speed manual transmission in a more fuel-efficient FWD drivetrain layout, as well as a 2.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine paired with a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission in FWD in the top-end XUV 7XO.

Also Read: Mahindra Doubles Down On New SUVs & EVs With Aggressive Launch Plans

The Mahindra XUV 7XO will come with a raft of design revisions across the exterior, including edgier headlamps, sharper bumpers, a more prominent upper grille, a larger lower grille, and partly clear-lens tail lamps. Larger, 19-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Ceat SportDrive 235/55 R19 tyres will give the new model a more commanding road presence.

The top-end model will feature a beige-and-tan interior. It remains to be seen whether an all-black or another darker colour scheme will be offered for customers who seek lower-maintenance or simply a darker aesthetic.

Also Read: Mahindra Scorpio N Facelift Launch In Early 2026 – What To Expect?

Inside, a redesigned dashboard and a two-spoke steering wheel will be among the key visual changes apart from the addition of a passenger touchscreen. Like the third display, the digital instrument cluster and the infotainment touchscreen will also measure 12.3 inches diagonally, up from the 10.25-inch panels of the XUV 700.

All three screens will run new software and should offer an array of new functions. A slew of Level 2 advanced driver assistance systems will elevate safety. Mahindra plans to launch the XUV 7XO on 5 January 2026. The company will offer the new model only with three-row seating, likely in six-seat and seven-seat versions. We expect prices to start at just under INR 14 lakh (ex-showroom).

Source

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