Kia Carens Clavis ICE Range Gets New HTE(EX) Trim With Sunroof

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Kia Carens Clavis HTE(EX) trim sits above the existing HTE(O) variant with highlighting features being sunroof, LED DRLs, etc

Kia India has strengthened the appeal of the IC-engined Carens Clavis by introducing a new HTE(EX) trim that slots above the existing HTE(O) variant with more features. One of the notable upgrades is the inclusion of a sunroof in the naturally aspirated 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol powertrain for the first time – in line with the growing demand for such feature.

The brand calls it a Sky Light Electric Sunroof and its addition is significant as sunroofs have become a key purchase driver in family vehicles. The new variant is offered across all internal combustion engine options including the 1.5L petrol, 1.5L turbo petrol and 1.5L diesel. Regardless of engine choice, the HTE(EX) is available exclusively in a seven-seat layout.

Prices start at Rs. 12,54,900 for the 1.5L petrol which rises up to Rs. 13,41,900 for the turbo petrol and Rs. 14,52,900 for the diesel (all, ex-showroom). In addition to the sunroof, Kia has packed the HTE(EX) with features such as automatic climate control system that replaces manual air-conditioning, LED daytime running lights and position lamps.

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

Additionally, LED cabin lamps and driver-side auto up/down power window are also available. Combined with the electric version, the Carens Clavis has been well received by consumers since its market debut last year. Kia says the new variant was developed after closely studying customer feedback. Speaking on the new launch, Atul Sood, Senior Vice President – Marketing & Sales, Kia India, said,

“The introduction of the HTE (EX) trim for Carens Clavis (ICE) range is a direct outcome of listening closely to our customers and understanding what they value most. By incorporating comfort and convenience features that they have actively want, including the first-ever skylight sunroof in the G1.5 powertrain of Carens Clavis—and offering them across all powertrains, we are making our Carens Clavis lineup an even more compelling choice for families.”

Also Read: Kia EV2 Compact e-SUV Makes Debut At 2026 Brussels Motor Show

The South Korean brand recently announced prices for the new generation Seltos in India and is planning to bring in the hybrid version of the global Sorento as well this year. A compact electric SUV could also be in the pipeline.

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Skoda Peaq 7-Seater Electric SUV Teased

Skoda names its new seven-seat electric flagship ‘Peaq’, debuting in 2026

Skoda has revealed that its future all-electric seven-seat flagship SUV will be called the ‘Peaq’. The announcement marks a key step in the company’s electric mobility strategy ahead of the model’s planned global debut in summer 2026.

Flagship role in Skoda’s EV roadmap

The Peaq will sit at the top of Skoda’s lineup, reflecting the naming choice and its positioning as the brand’s flagship. The model serves as the production evolution of the Vision 7S concept that debuted in 2022, which introduced the brand’s Modern Solid design language and outlined its long-term EV direction.

The Vision 7S concept placed emphasis on sustainability, functionality and practical technology – themes Skoda says continue into the production model. The Peaq is intended to focus on the brand’s core attributes of interior space, comfort and day-to-day usability.

Market positioning and target customers

Aimed at larger households and buyers seeking multi-purpose flexibility, the seven-seater model is expected to incorporate the brand’s “Simply Clever” features. Skoda suggests the vehicle is intended for customers who need a single model capable of handling family use, work needs and leisure travel.

Part of wider EV expansion plans

The Peaq forms part of a broader expansion of Skoda’s electric offerings. The manufacturer currently offers 12 passenger models worldwide and delivered over 9,26,000 vehicles in 2024. As a member of Volkswagen Group’s Brand Group CORE, Skoda’s strategy combines battery electric, hybrid and internal combustion products to support a target of becoming one of Europe’s top three brands in terms of sales by 2030.

Launch timeline

The world premiere of the Peaq is scheduled for summer 2026. Skoda plans to announce technical specifications, pricing and market rollout information closer to the model’s launch.

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Skoda & Volkswagen Dec 2025 Sales – Kylaq, Kushaq, Virtus, Taigun, Slavia

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Skoda and Volkswagen finished ninth and tenth respectively in the overall manufacturers’ sales charts in December 2025 in India

The last month of 2025 CY offered a clear snapshot of how Skoda and Volkswagen are currently positioned in the Indian market. The former’s numbers were defined almost entirely by the Kylaq. The sub-4-metre SUV closed December with a total of 3,668 units in the domestic market – accounting for well over half of the brand’s total monthly volume of 5,567 units.

Month-on-month, the model posted a mild 4 per cent increase. Behind the Kylaq, the rest of Skoda’s line-up shows a different picture. The Kushaq recorded 958 units, a huge year-on-year decline of 61 per cent, although it did show a strong 63 per cent month-on-month rebound compared to November. The Slavia followed a similar trajectory – slipping 62 per cent year-on-year to 711 units – while declining 37 per cent month-on-month.

Premium models added limited volume but contributed positively. The Kodiaq registered 230 units by growing 19 per cent year-on-year and rising 50 per cent over November. In contrast, the Superb and Octavia remained absent from regular retail volumes. Overall, the Czech auto major still managed a 22 per cent year-on-year growth largely on the back of the Kylaq alone.

Also Read: Skoda-VW Post Highest Ever Domestic Sales Of 1.17 Lakh Units In 2025

Model	Dec 2025 Sales	Dec 2024 Sales	YoY Change
Kylaq	3,668	0	0%
Kushaq	958	2,465	-61%
Slavia	711	1,894	-62%
Kodiaq	230	194	19%
Superb	0	1	-100%
Octavia	0	–	0%
Total	5,567	4,554	22%

The December numbers of VW tell a slightly different story. Total sales stood at 4,256 units – down 11 per cent year-on-year – but up a healthy 27 per cent month-on-month. The Virtus once again emerged as the brand’s backbone posting 2,378 units and registering a modest 5 per cent year-on-year growth. As has been the case in recent times, it was also the most sold midsize sedan in India.

Model	Dec 2025 Sales	Dec 2024 Sales	YoY Change
Virtus	2,378	2,257	5%
Taigun	1,778	2,335	-24%
Tiguan	100	195	-49%
Golf	0	0	0%
Total	4,256	4,787	-11%

The sedan also improved 7 per cent over November. The Taigun, however, continued to face volume declines. Sales fell to 1,778 units with a 24 per cent year-on-year decline in spite of the SUV making a comeback notably on a month-on-month basis with a 65 per cent increase. The Tiguan, on the other hand, remained a low volume offering at 100 units.

Also Read: India-Spec Volkswagen Tayron R-Line Details Revealed, Launch Soon

It is no secret that the MQB A0 IN platform based models contribute to the majority of volume sales and both brands will look to leverage it further by bringing in the updated versions of their respective midsize SUV and sedan offerings this year.

Source

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Two-Wheelers & SUVs Power India’s Strongest Auto Year Yet In 2025

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Two-wheelers played a defining role in 2025 as sales during Q3 FY2025-26 increased notably by 16.9 per cent on a year-on-year basis to 5.70 million units

The automotive industry ended the calendar year 2025 in a record-setting way by delivering its best quarterly and annual performance to date. As per SIAM data, the October–December period emerged as the strongest Q3 ever for multiple vehicle segments supported by festive season demand, easing interest rates and policy-led improvements in vehicle affordability.

Two-wheelers played a defining role in this growth phase. Sales during Q3 FY2025-26 increased notably by 16.9 per cent on a year-on-year basis to 5.70 million units – making it the highest Q3 performance on record for the segment. For the full year, two-wheeler volumes crossed 20.50 million units by registering a 4.9 per cent increase over 2024.

December stood out with dispatches climbing 39.4 per cent to 15,41,036 units due to high urban demand and festive buying of scooters and motorcycles. Exports further complemented the total numbers particularly in the two-wheeler space. Overseas shipments expanded by 24.3 per cent during Q3 and by 24.2 per cent over the full year period.

Also Read: 4 Brand New SUVs Launching In India In The Next 2 Months

The Q3 FY2025-26 sales jumped 20.6 per cent year-on-year to 12.76 lakh units – the highest ever third quarter volume for the segment. The passenger vehicle sales in calendar year 2025 touched 44.90 lakh units with a 5.0 per cent annual increase. The December dispatches surged 26.8 per cent to 3,99,216 units as well as the year was wrapped on a positive note.

Exports remained on an upward trajectory as well growing 11.7 per cent in Q3 and 16.0 per cent across the year to 8.63 lakh units. The three-wheeler category also recorded its best year yet. The Q3 volumes rose 14.0 per cent on a year-on-year basis to 2.15 lakh units while full-year sales reached a record 7.88 lakh units – up 8.2 per cent.

Also Read: MG, Nissan And Volkswagen To Launch New Premium SUVs By March

The December sales increased 17.4 per cent to 61,924 units complemented by improved financing access and rising demand for passenger mobility solutions. Commercial vehicles strengthened the overall industry performance. Q3 FY2025-26 volumes grew 21.5 per cent year-on-year to 2.90 lakh units – the highest Q3 ever for the segment. Annual CV sales closed at 10.28 lakh units in 2025 – a 7.7 per cent increase and an all-time high.

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2W Market Crosses 2 Crore Sales Mark In 2025, Exports Hit Record High

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Hero MotoCorp maintained its leadership position in CY 2025 by dispatching 57.5 lakh units as it finished ahead of TVS Motor Company

The domestic two-wheeler market delivered a measured yet encouraging performance in calendar year 2025 – managing to cross the 2 crore sales threshold after several subdued years. SIAM data indicates that total domestic volumes rose to over 2 crore units with a 5 per cent improvement compared to the same period of twelve months the previous year.

Despite this progress, the industry continues to operate below its historic high of 2.1 crore units achieved in 2018. While domestic demand strengthened, overseas markets played a far more decisive role in shaping the year’s outcome. Two-wheeler exports posted an appreciable growth of 24.2 per cent – reaching an all-time peak of 49.4 lakh units.

The volume surge was largely attributed to renewed demand across African markets, consistent buying interest from South Asia and revival in global motorcycle consumption, etc. Hero MotoCorp maintained its leadership position by dispatching 57.5 lakh units during the recently concluded calendar year. Growth, however, remained modest at 2 per cent for the brand.

Also Read: Skoda-VW Post Highest Ever Domestic Sales Of 1.17 Lakh Units In 2025

TVS Motor Company stood out for its pace by recording the fastest expansion among major players with a 15.7 per cent jump in volumes to 39.8 lakh units.Consumer demand patterns in 2025 revealed a different influence. Although rural markets remained stable, cities emerged as the primary growth contributors. Scooter sales, in particular, outpaced motorcycles in urban centres benefiting from improving disposable incomes and enhanced financing options.

Policy measures such as GST 2.0 tax reduction, income tax relief and a series of repo rate reductions improved affordability across segments. These factors, combined with an auspicious festive season, especially in metropolitan regions provided support to retail demand in the second half of the year. The 2026 CY is expected to see an influx of new launches across segments.

Also Read: Bajaj Clocks 3.69 Lakh Unit Sales In Dec 2025 With Exports Leading The Way

With growing appetite for adventure motorcycles and expanding entry-level volume based segments in India, the momentum could serve as a basis for consistent retail figures throughout this year. Across passenger vehicle and two-wheeler industries, the emphasis on exports has been on an all-time high and it will lead to more products being introduced with global standards locally as well.

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VinFast Crosses 1000 EV Sales Milestone In India Within Four Months

VinFast surpasses 1000 EV sales in India quickly after market entry

Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer VinFast has announced that it has surpassed cumulative sales of 1000 units in India, roughly four months after entering the market. The milestone highlights the brand’s early traction in a segment currently dominated by established players.

Sales performance and market positioning

VinFast registered around 830 retail units during a three-month span in 2025. Sales momentum has continued into 2026, with more than 200 electric SUVs delivered so far this year. On the back of these results, the brand has become the fourth significant EV-focused player in India, following Tata Motors, MG Motor and Mahindra.

Launch strategy and product lineup

The company formally commenced operations in India in September last year with the VF 6 and VF 7 midsize electric SUVs. The VF 6 is equipped with a single-motor setup rated at 201 HP and 310 Nm, powered by a 59.6kWh battery that delivers a claimed range of up to 480 km.

The VF 7 is offered with single- and dual-motor configurations and two battery sizes: 59.6kWh and 70.8kWh. Depending on the variant, the SUV also claims a driving range of up to 480 km.

Local assembly and manufacturing capacity

VinFast EVs for the Indian market are assembled in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu. The facility currently supports an annual capacity of 50,000 units, with the infrastructure in place to scale production to approximately 1,50,000 units per year as demand grows.

Looking ahead

VinFast’s early sales performance indicates initial acceptance among Indian EV buyers, though longer-term success will depend on competitive pricing, charging infrastructure growth and broader consumer confidence in newer entrants. Further launch phases and additional products are expected as the brand seeks to expand its footprint.

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Mercedes-Benz Delivers 19,007 Units In 2025; GLS SUV To Be Locally Made

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Mercedes-Benz India posted 19,007 units in 2025 which is slightly lower than the 19,565 units it managed the previous calendar year; enters the list of top 5 markets globally

Mercedes-Benz India finished the period between January and December 2025 with total deliveries of 19,007 units which is slightly lower than the 19,565 units it managed the previous calendar year. Despite the slight volume dip, the luxury carmaker recorded its best-ever annual performance in terms of revenue representing the growing contribution of high-value models and premium range.

The standout performance came from the S-Class, Mercedes-Maybach models and AMG derivatives. The range-topping portfolio grew by 11 per cent year-on-year and accounted for 25 per cent of overall sales showing consistent demand for flagship luxury products from the German auto major. Consumers continued to gravitate towards exclusivity, bespoke features and high-performance offerings too in India.

The AMG performance division delivered an especially strong showing by registering 34 per cent year-on-year growth in CY2025. The surge points the finger towards a growing appetite for high-performance luxury cars in the country with AMG models comprising sedans, SUVs and the legendary G-Class luring in aspirational buyers craving performance.

Mercedes-Benz’s battery electric vehicle (BEV) portfolio also maintained its upward trajectory – recording 12 per cent growth on a year-on-year basis. BEVs now account for 20 per cent of all top-end Mercedes-Benz sales in India. Notably, 70 per cent of BEVs sold in 2025 belonged to the top-end segment – priced between Rs. 1.25 crore and Rs. 3.1 crore. The lineup includes the EQS SUV, EQS Sedan, Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV and the all-electric G580.

Among individual models, the long wheelbase E-Class continued its dominance – retaining its position as India’s most desired and highest-selling luxury car. Strong brand loyalty and rear-seat-focused luxury ensured it consistently outperformed its segment rivals. On the electric front, the EQS SUV emerged as Mercedes-Benz’s highest-selling luxury BEV in the Indian market.

As for the segments, the entry-level luxury, core and top-end models contributed 13 per cent, 62 per cent and 25 per cent respectively to overall CY2025 sales. The sales of sedans are led by the C-Class, LWB E-Class, S-Class and Mercedes-Maybach S-Class. SUVs also delivered good volumes buoyed by the GLA, GLC, GLE, GLS, Mercedes-Maybach GLS and the AMG G63.

However, the entry-level luxury portfolio declined by 20 per cent year-on-year – reducing its share to 13 per cent. the local production of the Mercedes-Maybach GLS; will be the first market outside USA to start the local production of this highly desirable luxury SUV. Mercedes-Benz India has confirmed plans to launch 12 new products in India this year including the much-anticipated CLA electric sedan that will debut the new MB.OS operating system.

The brand has also announced local production of the Mercedes-Maybach GLS at its Pune facility – making India the first market outside the United States to manufacture the popular luxury SUV. The strategy builds on a solid performance in calendar year 2025 which led to India entering the list of top 5 markets for the brand.

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