Škoda To Offer 4-Year Warranty & Service Benefits Across Range From 2026

Škoda Auto India has announced a new ownership programme called Škoda Super Care, which will be introduced across its entire product range from 2026. The initiative brings together warranty, roadside assistance and service benefits under a single, standardised package aimed at making vehicle ownership simpler and more predictable.

As part of the programme, customers will receive a 4-year standard warranty, 4-year roadside assistance, and four labour-free services. These benefits will be offered as standard across all models, setting a new baseline for after-sales support in the brand’s portfolio.

Škoda Super Care has been designed to improve the overall ownership journey by offering early engagement with authorised service centres and reducing uncertainty around service costs. The programme is intended to support customers throughout their time with the vehicle, rather than only at the point of sale.

Commenting on the announcement, Ashish Gupta, Brand Director, Škoda Auto India, said the focus was on extending support beyond the showroom. He noted that the new programme combines long-term warranty coverage, roadside assistance and free services to offer customers clarity, confidence and peace of mind during ownership.

A key element of Škoda Super Care is its service structure. Along with periodic maintenance services at 15,000 km and 30,000 km, the programme also introduces Škoda Check-in services at 1,000 km and 7,500 km. These early check-ins are aimed at building a stronger connection between customers and Škoda’s service network from the start of ownership.

The company says the programme will help deliver transparent pricing, clear service communication and easier access to authorised workshops. Customers will also benefit from genuine parts, trained technicians and the ability to book services through digital platforms or dealer networks.

Škoda Super Care will be supported by the brand’s service network spread across 183 cities, with more than 325 customer touchpoints nationwide. Additional improvements include easier service booking, itemised billing, faster turnaround times and real-time updates on vehicle service status.

With this move, Škoda Auto India is aiming to standardise and simplify the ownership experience while reinforcing its focus on customer support and long-term value.

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New BMW iX3 Debuts At CES 2026 With Alexa+ AI & & 805 Km Range

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New BMW iX3 gets more advanced Personal Assistant enhanced with Amazon Alexa+ integration; India launch likely in the near future

BMW has used CES 2026 as the global stage to unveil the new BMW iX3 – the first production model based on the brand’s Neue Klasse architecture. It acts as a rolling technology demonstrator previewing innovations that BMW plans to roll out across 40 upcoming models by 2027. At the heart of the iX3’s more advanced cabin is BMW’s new digital interface. The Panoramic iDrive system combines with new BMW Operating System X to offer multiple functions.

Making its public debut alongside these systems is the new-gen Personal Assistant enhanced with Amazon Alexa+. Using a large language model, the assistant can understand natural conversation, respond contextually and even handle multiple questions in a single voice command – covering both vehicle functions and general information.

While stationary, occupants can stream content through platforms such as Disney+ and the TiVo-powered Video App, play games via AirConsole or even join Zoom video calls which automatically switch to audio-only once the vehicle is in motion. BMW has also expanded its in-car app ecosystem – adding YouTube Music, new gaming titles like Hot Wheels: Xtreme Overdrive and support for Bluetooth game controllers.

The 2026 BMW iX3 gains sixth generation BMW eDrive technology as it features a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup producing 469 hp and 645 Nm of torque – enabling a 0–100 kmph sprint in 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 210 kmph. BMW claims energy losses have been reduced by 40 per cent compared to its previous EV generation alongside lower weight and manufacturing costs.

A key contributor to this improvement is BMW’s new 800V battery architecture with cylindrical cells, integrated directly into the vehicle structure. The 108.7 kWh battery pack delivers a WLTP-certified range of up to 805 km while charging speeds are equally impressive. Using a 400 kW DC fast charger, the iX3 can add up to 372 km of range in just 10 minutes.

BMW claims that 10 to 80 per cent charge takes around 21 minutes. The SUV also supports AC charging up to 22 kW and introduces bidirectional charging, enabling Vehicle-to-Load, Vehicle-to-Home and Vehicle-to-Grid functionality.cDriving dynamics are overseen by BMW’s newly developed “Heart of Joy” control unit – a high-performance processor that manages drivetrain, braking, steering and energy recuperation.

Processing data up to ten times faster than conventional systems, it allows the iX3 to rely almost entirely on regenerative braking during everyday driving while also delivering smoother stopping, sharper responses and improved efficiency. BMW says 98 per cent of braking scenarios can be handled without using friction brakes.

Inputs from the driver work with AI-controlled systems allowing features like adaptive cruise control and lane assistance to remain active even during light steering or braking inputs. With the optional Highway Assistant, drivers can travel hands-free at speeds of up to 130 kmph including automated lane changes confirmed by a simple glance, extending Level 2 assistance deeper into real-world driving conditions.

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Maruti Suzuki Sets New Annual Production Record in 2025

Maruti Suzuki records highest-ever annual production, building 22.55 lakh cars in 2025

Maruti Suzuki India closed calendar year 2025 with its highest-ever annual production, manufacturing over 22.55 lakh vehicles across its Indian facilities. This marks the second consecutive year in which the country’s largest carmaker has crossed the 20-lakh production milestone.

The company’s output in 2025 was led by five high-volume models – the Fronx, Baleno, Swift, Dzire and the Ertiga – reflecting continued demand across hatchback, sedan and MPV segments.

Maruti Suzuki’s manufacturing journey in India began in 1983 with its first plant in Gurgaon, Haryana. Since then, the company has steadily expanded capacity through additional production facilities to support rising domestic demand and exports. The production ramp-up over the past few years highlights this expansion: output stood at 16.29 lakh units in 2021, increased to 19.16 lakh units in 2022 and 19.34 lakh units in 2023, before crossing 20.63 lakh units in 2024. The 2025 figure represents the highest annual total recorded by the company so far.

Commenting on the milestone, Hisashi Takeuchi, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, said the achievement was driven by coordinated efforts across the organisation and its supplier base. He also noted that a high level of localisation has helped Maruti Suzuki scale production while maintaining quality standards, underlining India’s growing role as a globally competitive automotive manufacturing hub.

Looking ahead, the company has reiterated its intention to continue expanding manufacturing capacity in India, aligning its long-term plans with the Government of India’s Make in India programme.

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Toyota Innova Crysta To Be Discontinued By 2027

Toyota may discontinue the Innova Crysta diesel by 2027 due to CAFE norms

Toyota is expected to discontinue the diesel powered Innova Crysta in India by around March 2027, marking the end of one of the most influential MPVs the country has seen over the last two decades. The move is understood to be driven largely by India’s upcoming Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) Phase 3 regulations, which significantly tighten fleet-level CO₂ emission targets.

The ladder-frame Innova Crysta, currently sold only with a 2.4-litre diesel engine and a manual transmission, was earlier expected to be phased out closer to 2025. However, consistent demand from private and fleet buyers, along with supply-side constraints affecting the newer Innova Hycross, reportedly led Toyota to extend the Crysta’s production lifecycle.

CAFE 3 norms are considerably more stringent than previous phases and place heavier, body-on-frame diesel vehicles at a disadvantage from a fleet emissions standpoint. For manufacturers, meeting these norms requires lowering the overall average CO₂ output across all vehicles sold.

Toyota has already begun reshaping its MPV strategy by clearly separating roles within the Innova line-up. The monocoque, strong-hybrid Innova Hycross is positioned primarily for private buyers, while the diesel Crysta continues to cater to more demanding commercial and high-usage applications. As regulations tighten, that divide becomes harder to sustain.

A key factor working in favour of Toyota’s hybrid models is the availability of so-called “super credits” under India’s CAFE framework. These credits effectively allow cleaner vehicles such as strong hybrids to count more heavily when calculating a manufacturer’s average emissions. In simple terms, selling more hybrid MPVs helps offset the higher CO₂ output of heavier diesel vehicles.

This approach explains Toyota’s increasing emphasis on hybrid powertrains across its portfolio. While there is no official word on the future of the diesel Toyota Fortuner, Toyota has already indicated that the upcoming Toyota Land Cruiser FJ, expected later in the decade, will not feature a diesel option.

When the Innova Crysta eventually exits, it will leave behind a segment that currently has no direct successor. Despite having capable longitudinal diesel engines, neither Mahindra nor Tata offers a body-on-frame MPV that mirrors the Innova Crysta’s blend of durability, comfort and reliability. Hyundai, meanwhile, has focused more on three-row crossovers rather than traditional MPVs.

That could change. Hyundai is reportedly evaluating a heavily localised version of the Hyundai Staria for India, which could potentially address the vacuum left by the Crysta. Whether it adopts a diesel or alternative powertrain strategy remains to be seen.

With the expected 2027 timeline drawing closer, the disappearance of the Innova Crysta diesel could prompt rival manufacturers to reconsider the long-neglected MPV space. As SUVs continue to dominate headlines, the exit of a proven workhorse may quietly reset priorities inside competing boardrooms.

Official Statement by Toyota Kirloskar Motor, Spokesperson:

We would like to refrain from making any comments on future products. However, Toyota’s product strategy continues to be guided by its multi-pathway approach offering practical, inclusive, and sustainable mobility solutions wherein all powertrain technologies play an important role meeting diverse need of customers across the segments.

Source

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Kia Registers Highest-Ever Global Sales In 2025; India, SUVs Drive Growth

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Kia delivered 3,135,803 vehicles worldwide last year setting a new benchmark for annual sales and registering a 2 per cent growth

Kia has entered 2026 on a front foot after closing the calendar year 2025 with the highest global sales performance in its history. The automaker delivered 3,135,803 vehicles worldwide last year – setting a new benchmark for annual sales and registering a 2 per cent growth compared to the same period in 2024 despite an uncertain global automotive environment.

A major share of this performance came from markets outside South Korea where Kia sold 2,584,238 vehicles during the year with a 2 per cent year-on-year increase. Domestic demand in Korea also remained consistent with sales reaching 545,776 units – up 1 per cent from the previous year. Sales of special purpose vehicles remained limited though totalling 5,789 units globally but had minimal impact on overall volumes.

SUVs once again continued to be Kia’s main growth accumulator. The Sportage led the brand’s worldwide sales charts in 2025 with 569,688 units. It was followed by the Seltos which posted sales of 299,766 units and the Sorento which recorded 264,673 units. Alongside these volume drivers, new-gen products such as the EV3, the K4 sedan and the hybrid Carnival MPV helped Kia sustain demand across multiple segments and regions.

Improved production efficiency, better supply chain management and market-specific sales strategies allowed the company to navigate tariff pressures and fluctuating demand patterns – particularly in key regions such as North America and Europe. Hybrid models gained good volumes in the United States while electric vehicle volumes strengthened Kia’s position in European markets as well.

Building on this foundation, Kia has outlined a global target of 3.35 million vehicle sales for 2026. The company expects overseas markets to contribute 2.775 million units while domestic sales in Korea are projected at 565,000 units. An additional 10,000 units are planned from special purpose vehicles. A key focus area for the year ahead will be the expansion of hybrid powertrains across major SUV nameplates including the next generation Telluride and Seltos.

Its global performance was echoed in India where the brand recorded its best-ever December since market entry. Wholesale volumes stood at 18,659 units for the month with a massive 105 per cent growth over December 2024. For the full calendar year, Kia India sold 280,286 vehicles with a 15 per cent increase compared to the previous year.

The Sonet continued to be a cornerstone of Kia India’s success, crossing the one lakh unit sales mark for the second year in a row. It was supported by consistent demand for the Seltos and Carens while newer additions such as the Carens Clavis and its electric derivative received encouraging customer response. Premium offerings including the fourth-gen Carnival and EV6 also maintained decent traction through the year. Alongside sales growth, Kia India expanded its retail and service reach in 2025 – growing its network to 821 touchpoints across 369 cities.

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Mahindra BE 6 Formula E Edition: First 999 Buyers Get Exclusive Track And E-Prix Perks

Mahindra BE 6 Formula E Edition gets motorsport-inspired design and exclusivity

Mahindra has unveiled a special Formula E themed version of the BE 6 SUV, priced at Rs. 23.69 lakhs for the FE2 variant and Rs. 24.49 lakhs for the FE3 variant. Bookings open on 14 January 2026, with deliveries scheduled to begin on 14 February 2026. The limited-run edition draws its identity from Mahindra’s involvement in the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship and features design, colour and cabin updates inspired by the electric racing series.

What’s New in the BE 6 Formula E Edition

The special edition features several exterior and interior updates compared to the standard BE 6. On the outside, it receives a redesigned front bumper with circular projector headlamps, gloss black inserts and contrasting orange highlights. It is available in four colours – Everest White, Firestorm Orange, Tango Red and Stealth Black. Paired with dark-tinted 20-inch alloy wheels, orange brake callipers and twin spoilers at the rear. Formula E badges, decals and a ceramic-paint windshield graphic distinguish it further, along with 12-stripe graphics on the fixed glass roof and bonnet.

Inside, the cabin adopts a motorsport-oriented theme using Firestorm Orange accents across the dashboard, switchgear and door straps. Formula E-specific branding appears on the seats, dashboard and seat belts, and the model features a unique startup animation and themed sound profile. Translucent door inserts and a race-inspired start/stop button flap are also specific to this edition.

Mechanically, the BE 6 Formula E Edition retains the standard car’s electric drivetrain. It delivers 282 HP from a 79kWh battery pack, 0-100 km/hr in 6.7 seconds, a 202 km/hr top speed and an expected real-world range of around 500 km.

Exclusive Offer for the First 999 Customers

Mahindra has announced a set of assured benefits for the first 999 buyers of the BE 6 Formula E Edition. These include:

• A track-day experience with Mahindra Formula E driver Kush Maini at Mahindra’s proving track
  
• A collector’s kit featuring Mahindra Racing memorabilia
  
• A professionally shot delivery photograph and video
  
• A personalised number between 0 and 99 displayed as a decal on the SUV
  
• The customer’s first name printed on the Mahindra Racing car competing in the 2026 London E-Prix
  

Additionally, three customers from this group will be selected for a trip to the London Formula E E-Prix in August 2026. This includes paddock access and a meet-and-greet with Mahindra Advance Design Europe (MADE). Their cars will also receive a special roof decal.

Mahindra has positioned the BE 6 Formula E Edition as a limited, motorsport-inspired derivative intended to build on growing Formula E interest in India.

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2026 Kia Seltos Launched, Priced From Rs. 10.99 Lakhs

Second generation Kia Seltos debuts with new platform, larger size & premium features

Kia India has launched the second-generation Seltos in India at an introductory starting price of Rs. 10.99 lakhs (ex-showroom). Bookings for the midsize SUV have been open since December 11 for a token amount of Rs. 25,000, with deliveries scheduled to begin from mid-January.

The new Seltos is underpinned by an all-new platform and is larger than its predecessor, marking a significant generational update. Introductory prices range from Rs. 10.99 lakhs to Rs. 19.99 lakhs, positioning it firmly in the highly competitive midsize SUV segment.

Design and dimensions

The latest Seltos adopts Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, resulting in a sharper and more upright appearance compared to the outgoing model. Key exterior elements include a wide grille housing the primary headlamp units, vertically stacked LED daytime running lights, gloss black cladding, retractable door handles, blacked-out pillars and a full-width LED light bar at the rear.

In terms of size, the new model measures 4460 mm in length, 1830 mm in width and 1635 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2690 mm. Compared to the previous generation, it is 95 mm longer, 30 mm wider and gains an additional 80 mm in wheelbase, translating into improved cabin space.

Interior and features

Inside, the cabin has been redesigned to offer a more premium experience. The dashboard is dominated by twin 12.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment system, separated by a 5-inch display for climate controls. A new flat-bottom steering wheel with an offset Kia logo and a mix of physical buttons and touch controls add to the modern layout.

The feature list is extensive and includes wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ventilated front seats, 64-colour ambient lighting, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, wireless charging, a 360-degree camera and a 10-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat. Audio duties are handled by an eight-speaker Bose sound system, while connected car technology is also offered.

On the safety front, the SUV comes with six airbags as standard, along with electronic stability control, hill-hold assist, disc brakes on all four wheels, tyre pressure monitoring, ISOFIX child-seat mounts and a reverse camera. The new platform is claimed to offer higher bodyshell rigidity, which could help the Seltos achieve a high safety rating under Bharat NCAP.

Powertrain options

Mechanically, the new-generation Seltos continues with the same engine lineup as the outgoing model. Buyers can choose from three 1.5-litre engines: a naturally aspirated petrol producing 115 HP, a diesel delivering 116 HP and a turbo-petrol unit developing 160 HP.

Transmission options include a six-speed manual and CVT for the naturally aspirated petrol, a six-speed manual and six-speed automatic for the diesel, and a six-speed iMT or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic for the turbo-petrol variant. Kia has also confirmed that a petrol-hybrid powertrain is in development, with an expected launch timeline around 2027.

Market positioning

The new Seltos will continue to compete in one of India’s most crowded segments, taking on rivals such as the Hyundai Creta, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, Honda Elevate, MG Astor, Tata Sierra and the upcoming Renault Duster.

With a new platform, expanded dimensions and a comprehensive feature set, the second-generation Seltos represents a major step forward for Kia in the Indian market.

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