Skoda Confirms Kodiaq RS Launch, Second Octavia RS batch

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Skoda to strengthen its brand image as a performance-focused brand with a first-ever two-model RS line-up in India

The Skoda Kodiaq RS has been formally confirmed to be launched in India for the first time. Meanwhile, the Skoda Octavia RS is getting another lease of life, with a second batch confirmed to be imported. Skoda held the India debut of the second-generation Kodiaq RS and announced plans to launch it between April and June this year. The company will import it as a CBU from Kvasiny, Czech Republic.

The Skoda Kodiaq RS sports the same fourth-generation EA888 petrol engine as the Skoda Octavia RS and VW Golf GTI, but in a different tuning. This 2.0-litre TSI turbocharged four-cylinder mill produces 195 kW (261 hp) at 5,000-6,500 rpm and 400 Nm of torque at 1,650-4,350 rpm. The DQ 381 7-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission and an all-wheel drive system work together to send drive to the wheels.

Skoda offers the Kodiaq RS in five- and seven-seat versions, but we expect it to launch only the latter in India. The five-seat version hits 0 to 100 km/h in 6.3 seconds, and the seven-seat version accomplishes the same in 6.4 seconds. Both have an electronically limited top speed of 231 km/h. Stopping power comes from 335×30 mm front disc brakes with double-piston callipers and 310×22 mm rear disc brakes with single-piston callipers.

Also Read: 2026 Skoda Kylaq Classic+ & Prestige+ Trims Launched From Rs. 8.25 Lakh

The Kodiaq RS flaunts sharper bumpers, exclusive 20-inch Elias alloy wheels, a sports exhaust system with dual exposed tailpipes, and gloss black accents. It features DCC Plus adaptive suspension, but since Skoda does not offer the DCC adaptive suspension in the Octavia RS, it remains to be seen if it includes this feature in the Kodiaq RS it imports to India. Unlike the Octavia RS, the Kodiaq RS does not feature an electronically controlled limited-slip differential.

The Octavia RS gets the EA888 engine with the same outputs, but the peak power is delivered at 5,250-6,500 rpm and the peak torque at 1,600-4,500 rpm. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds and achieves an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.

Also Read: 2026 Skoda Kushaq Facelift Revealed With Changes Inside & Out

Skoda imported only 100 units of the Octavia RS in the first batch and may keep the quota limited to a similar figure in the second batch. The company may set the price around the same as before – 49.99 lakh (ex-showroom).

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2026 Tata Punch Facelift Secures 5 Stars In Bharat NCAP Crash Tests

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2026 Tata Punch facelift gets 30.58 points out of a possible 32.00 for Adult Occupant Protection and 45.00 out of 49.00 in COP in Bharat NCAP

The recently introduced updated version of the IC-engined Tata Punch has secured a five-star safety rating in the Bharat NCAP crash tests reiterating its position as one of the safest SUVs on sale. The new Punch recorded an impressive 30.58 points out of a possible 32.00 for Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) showing strong structural integrity and effective restraint systems across multiple crash scenarios.

In adult safety tests, the Punch performed consistently well in both key impact evaluations. The frontal offset deformable barrier test resulted in a score of 14.71 out of 16.00 while the side movable deformable barrier test earned 15.87 out of 16.00. The side pole impact assessment was rated as ‘OK’, confirming adequate protection in high-severity side impacts.

These results indicate good to adequate protection levels for the head, chest and lower body areas of occupants. Child Occupant Protection (COP) scores were also notably high. The Punch achieved 45.00 points out of a maximum 49.00. The dynamic test score, in particular, stood at a full 24.00 out of 24.00 with the use of child restraint systems.

Also Read: Updated Tata Tiago EV Spied Testing In India Ahead Of Launch

Meanwhile, CRS installation earned 12.00 out of 12.00 points. The vehicle assessment component contributed an additional 9.00 points. Both the 18-month-old and 3-year-old child dummies were tested using Joie i-Spin Safe i-Size seats mounted via ISOFIX with support legs positioned rearward-facing. The tested variants included the Tata Punch Pure+ CNG AMT and Accomplished CNG MT.

The test vehicle weighed 1,448 kg. Safety equipment on the Tata Punch facelift includes standard dual front airbags, side curtain airbags, side chest and pelvis airbags, ESC, pedestrian protection compliance and seat belt reminders for all occupants. ISOFIX mounts are provided on the rear outboard seats. Tata is currently preparing to bring in the updated version of the Punch EV as well.

Also Read: Tata Debuts 17 New-Gen Trucks In India – New Platform, ADAS & More

In addition, the electrified take on the Sierra is set to launch this calendar year while the first product from the all-new Avinya flagship range will arrive before the closure of 2026 in India based on JLR’s EMA architecture.

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MG Majestor India Launch Scheduled For February 12

Majestor to launch February 12 as MG’s premium full-size SUV option

JSW MG Motor India has confirmed that the Majestor SUV will be launched in India on February 12, 2026. The full-size SUV was showcased at the 2025 Bharat Mobility Expo and is expected to be positioned above the Gloster in MG’s line-up, targeting models such as the Toyota Fortuner.

Exterior design and styling cues

The Majestor presents a traditional full-size SUV stance with a boxy profile and upright front end. The front fascia features a rectangular grille and split lighting arrangement, with LED daytime running lamps placed near the bonnet line and vertically stacked headlamps positioned lower on the bumper.

From the side, the silhouette is reminiscent of the Gloster, with a strong shoulder line and extensive cladding around the wheel arches and side sills. At the rear, the SUV features connected tail-lights. Broadly, the model maintains similarities with its international counterpart, the Maxus D90.

Interior expectations

MG has not officially showcased the Majestor’s cabin for India, but based on the global model, the interior is likely to feature a free-standing touchscreen above the air-con vents, soft-touch dashboard materials and a passenger-side grab handle. The SUV is also expected to offer a three-row seating layout similar to the Gloster.

Powertrain and drivetrain details

Powertrain details are yet to be officially disclosed, but the Majestor is expected to share components with the Gloster. This may include a 2.0-litre diesel engine available in single-turbo and twin-turbo configurations, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Both 4×2 and 4×4 drivetrain options are likely to be offered depending on variant.

Positioning in MG’s portfolio

The Gloster is expected to continue alongside the Majestor, giving MG two distinct offerings in the full-size SUV space – one positioned as a value-oriented alternative and the other aimed at a more premium segment. Detailed specifications and variant line-up are expected closer to launch.

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Toyota’s First EV For India ‘Urban Cruiser Ebella’ Breaks Cover, Launch Soon

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Toyota Urban Cruiser Ebella will be sold in two battery options with the claimed range going up to 543 km between charges

Toyota has officially unveiled the Urban Cruiser Ebella – the brand’s entry into India’s electric passenger vehicle space. The midsize electric SUV becomes Toyota’s first fully electric offering for the Indian market and is the result of a joint development programme with Suzuki. The Urban Cruiser Ebella shares its core architecture, components and powertrain strategy with the Maruti Suzuki e Vitara.

The electric SUV is built on the Heartect-e skateboard platform and will be manufactured at Suzuki Motor Gujarat’s facility. This EV-specific architecture has been engineered to allow extensive component sharing, including batteries, electronics and electrical systems. The shared approach is expected to help Toyota keep costs in check while ensuring scalability for both domestic sales and exports.

In terms of size, the Urban Cruiser Ebella sits squarely in the midsize SUV category. It measures around 4,285 mm in length, 1,800 mm in width and 1,640 mm in height, while riding on a 2,700 mm wheelbase. These dimensions translate into a spacious cabin layout without making the SUV unwieldy for city use.

Toyota has confirmed two battery pack options for the Urban Cruiser Ebella. Buyers will be able to choose between a 49 kWh battery and a larger 61.1 kWh unit, identical to those used in the e Vitara. Both versions are powered by a single electric motor producing 172 hp and 192 Nm of torque. Depending on the battery configuration and testing cycle, the claimed driving range goes up to 543 km on a single charge.

Design-wise, the Urban Cruiser Ebella follows a clean and modern styling theme. The front end features slim LED headlamps with integrated daytime running lights and a closed-off grille typical of electric vehicles. A dedicated BEV badge near the front fender indicates the charging port location. From the side, the SUV closely mirrors the e Vitara’s proportions but stands apart with distinct 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheel designs.

Inside the cabin, Toyota is expected to offer a technology-heavy layout. Equipment highlights include a large touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a fully digital instrument cluster, automatic climate control and ventilated front seats. Toyota’s T Intouch connected car technology will also be available, enabling remote vehicle monitoring, charging status updates and other app-based functions.

Having already been showcased at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 and the Brussels Motor Show, the Urban Cruiser Ebella will now prepare for its India launch. Once on sale, it will compete in the rapidly expanding midsize electric SUV segment against rivals such as the Tata Curvv EV, Hyundai Creta Electric, MG ZS EV and Mahindra XEV 9e, as Toyota begins its electric push in the Indian market.

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2026 Skoda Kushaq Facelift Teased Ahead Of 19th January Launch

Skoda teases 2026 Kushaq facelift with styling updates and added tech

Skoda Auto India has released the first teaser for the updated Kushaq, confirming that its mid-cycle facelift is nearing introduction. The refreshed model is expected to go on sale around January 19, 2026. While the teaser only shows the SUV under wraps, multiple test mules spotted over recent months have indicated that visible design and feature updates are on the way.

Since the Kushaq’s market debut in mid-2021, the model has played an important role in improving Skoda’s domestic volumes, alongside the Kylaq and Slavia. These locally built models on the MQB-A0-IN platform enabled Skoda Auto Volkswagen India to achieve a record 1.17 lakh domestic sales in the 2025 calendar year.

Exterior and interior updates expected

The Kushaq facelift is expected to receive revised grille elements, tweaked bumpers and updated lighting signatures based on earlier camouflaged sightings. New alloy wheel designs and subtle changes at the rear, including reworked tail-lamps, are also anticipated.

Inside, Skoda is likely to update the dashboard layout and materials while adding new equipment. Expected features include a larger touchscreen, ventilated seats, new upholstery and a 360-degree camera. Level 2 ADAS functions such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist and autonomous emergency braking are also likely to be offered, signalling a notable feature upgrade for the model.

Engine and transmission lineup

No major mechanical changes are expected. The 2026 Kushaq will continue with the existing turbo-petrol engine options: the 115 BHP, 1.0-litre three-cylinder and the 150 BHP, 1.5-litre four-cylinder TSI engines. Available gearboxes will include a 6-speed manual, 6-speed torque converter automatic and seven-speed DSG. Some reports have suggested the possibility of an eight-speed automatic, though this remains unconfirmed.

Wider group updates planned

The Kushaq is expected to be the first model within the Skoda-Volkswagen group’s India line-up to receive its facelift, with updates for the Slavia, Volkswagen Taigun and Volkswagen Virtus likely to follow. Cabin-related enhancements are expected to be shared across these models over time.

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Bajaj Chetak C25 Reaches Showrooms With Rs. 4,299 Off For First 10K Buyers

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Bajaj Chetak C25 sits at the entry points of the Chetak range and is available with a 2.5 kWh battery back enabling an IDC range of 113 km

Bajaj Auto has officially commenced retail sales of the all-new Chetak C25 across India shortly after its market debut. To capitalise on the strong initial response, the company has rolled out a limited-period early-bird benefit of Rs. 4,299 for the first 10,000 customers. With this offer applied, the effective ex-showroom Delhi price drops from Rs. 91,399 to Rs. 87,100.

Sales and deliveries of the Chetak C25 are now underway in key cities with a phased rollout across the country. Bajaj says the introductory benefit has been introduced to improve accessibility for buyers looking to switch to electric mobility – especially first-time EV customers and households adding a second scooter for daily commutes.

The Chetak C25 is positioned as a city-centric electric scooter – sitting below the Chetak 30 and 35 Series in Bajaj’s EV portfolio. It is powered by a 2.5 kWh battery pack delivering an IDC-certified range of 113 km on a single charge and it utilises a hub motor as well. Performance has been tuned for urban usage with a top speed of 55 kmph.

Charging duties are handled via an off-board 750 W charger. The battery can be replenished from 0 to 80 per cent in 2 hours and 25 minutes while a full charge takes approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes. Bajaj has also included an on-the-go charging feature allowing riders to power external devices such as smartphones while riding.

Built around a premium metal body, the Chetak C25 carries an IP67 rating for the battery which ensures resistance against water and dust along with mud-proof construction for all-weather reliability. Hardware highlights include a front disc brake, rear drum brake and a ground clearance of 170 mm and a wheelbase of 1,225 mm.

It boasts 25 litres of under-seat storage and a tight turning radius of 1,825 mm for easy manoeuvrability in congested areas. It is constructed on a brand new platform according to the brand and comes with features such as hill hold assist, reverse mode, Eco and Sport ride modes, guide-me-home lighting and call accept/reject functionality, etc.

The Bajaj Chetak C25 is available in multiple colour options including Inductive Black, Racing Red, Classic White, Ocean Teal (Matte), Opalescent Silver and Misty Yellow. Bajaj backs the scooter with a standard warranty of 3 years or 50,000 km whichever comes first.

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JSW To Launch Jetour T2-Based Plug-In Hybrid SUV In India

JSW to launch locally assembled, Jetour T2-based plug-in hybrid SUV in India

JSW Motors Limited, the independent passenger vehicle division of the JSW Group, is preparing to launch its first model for the Indian market later this year. The model will be based on the Jetour T2 SUV, though it will be sold under the JSW name rather than carrying Jetour branding.

The upcoming SUV will be assembled in India at JSW’s new greenfield facility in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, Maharashtra. Market introduction is expected in the third quarter of 2026. The product will be positioned separately from the JSW MG Motor India joint venture, reflecting JSW’s intent to establish its own presence in the passenger vehicle segment.

While the T2 is offered with conventional petrol engines in other markets, India is expected to receive the plug-in hybrid i-DM version, in line with JSW’s stated focus on sustainable mobility solutions. The hybrid system pairs a 1.5-litre engine with an electric drive unit. Internationally, both front- and all-wheel-drive configurations are offered, though JSW has not yet confirmed which will come to India.

The T2 features a boxy and upright design theme similar to other off-road-inspired SUVs. It uses a monocoque platform rather than a ladder-frame structure. The five-seat version measures roughly 4.7 metres long and 2 metres wide, giving it a footprint larger than the Tata Safari. A longer seven-seat version exists globally, but JSW has not indicated whether it will be considered for India.

Pricing and segment placement for India remain unconfirmed. For reference, the five-seat front-wheel-drive plug-in hybrid T2 retails at around Rs. 35 lakhs in the UAE (AED 1,44,000). Final pricing in India will depend on localisation levels, drivetrain choice, feature packaging and taxation.

Jetour was launched in 2018 by Chinese manufacturer Chery and operates primarily in China, as well as select markets in the Middle East, Africa, Southeast Asia and Latin America. The brand’s portfolio is mainly SUV-oriented, although some rebadged hatchbacks have been sold in the past.

With its first launch planned for 2026, JSW aims to enter the passenger vehicle market with a locally assembled plug-in hybrid SUV. Additional details regarding specifications, pricing and dealer rollout are expected closer to the market introduction.

Source

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