India-Bound Toyota Land Cruiser FJ 4×4 (Mini Fortuner) – All Key Details

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Toyota Land Cruiser FJ is expected to become the least expensive off-roader from the brand upon arrival in India within the next 2 years

The upcoming Toyota Land Cruiser FJ is shaping up to be one of the most interesting SUVs in India’s future pipeline – especially for customers looking to get an authentic go-anywhere machine. To be positioned as a smaller sibling to the Toyota Fortuner, the LC FJ could give Toyota a much-needed entry point into the off-road lifestyle space.

In terms of proportions, the Land Cruiser FJ is noticeably more compact than most vehicles wearing the Land Cruiser badge. At around 4.5 metres long with a 2,580 mm wheelbase, it is said to be developed to be easier to manoeuvre in tighter environments. A shorter footprint also helps off the road where a smaller turning radius can make a tangible difference on narrow trails.

Under the skin, Toyota is expected to stick with a proven formula. The SUV is based on the IMV ladder-frame chassis – the same foundation used by the Toyota Hilux and Fortuner in its slightly more affordable guise. The construction is known for its toughness and ability to handle rough usage which should go in sync with the FJ’s intended positioning as a 4X4.

Globally, the SUV first broke cover at the Japan Mobility Show 2025 and is expected to go on sale in Japan during the second half of 2026. While there is no official confirmation for India yet, the brand’s product strategy and growing demand for adventure-oriented vehicles make its arrival here a realistic possibility within the next couple of years.

Powering the Land Cruiser FJ will likely be a familiar 2.7-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. This unit, expected to produce around 163 PS and 246 Nm, will be paired with a 6-speed automatic gearbox sending power to all four wheels via a part-time 4WD system. More powertrains including a diesel mill could be added depending on the market requirements.

Design plays a big role in setting the FJ apart. The SUV carries a boxy and upright stance with clean surfaces and circular lighting elements drawing inspiration from the iconic Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40. Functional details such as body cladding and modular exterior components confirm its purpose-built and off-road ready demeanour.

On the inside, it will likely prioritise durability and usability – appealing to consumers who value reliability over luxury but essential bits like a 12.5-inch touchscreen, a digital console, climate control, ADAS etc will be available. If introduced in India, the Land Cruiser FJ could target enthusiasts wanting a genuine off-roader in a more manageable and accessible form but do not expect it to be priced in the range of Mahindra Thar as it could be more premium.

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Ducati Enters Motocross Space, Desmo450 MX Arrives At Rs. 17.23 Lakh

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Ducati Desmo450 MX uses a 449.6 cc single-cylinder powerplant which is equipped with Ducati’s distinctive Desmodromic valve system

Ducati has officially expanded its motorcycle lineup in India with the introduction of the all-new Desmo450 MX. Courtesy of the new launch, the Italian manufacturer has stepped into the motocross category for the first time in the country as it looks to appeal to the growing community of off-road and dirt track enthusiasts.

The new motorcycle is priced at Rs. 17.23 lakh (ex-showroom) and bookings are currently open across select showrooms. The company has confirmed that deliveries will begin towards the end of this month in India. Initially, the motocross machine will be sold through four dealerships located in New Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai and Pune.

At the heart of action lies a 449.6 cc single-cylinder powerplant which is equipped with Ducati’s distinctive Desmodromic valve system. The engineering solution, widely associated with the brand’s high-performance motorcycles, will help ensure accurate valve operation and contribute to a wider spread of usable power.

The setup helps deliver strong torque at lower revs while maintaining performance when the engine is pushed harder. The Ducati Desmo450 MX is also supported by a comprehensive electronics package. One of its highlights is a traction control system capable of monitoring rear wheel behaviour and measuring the level of wheel slip.

The system intervenes only when necessary allowing riders to maintain control while ensuring the motorcycle continues to perform naturally on demanding off-road surfaces. Structurally, the Ducati Desmo450 MX is built around a lightweight aluminium chassis designed for strength and agility. The frame features a construction method that reduces the number of welded joints.

It helps improve rigidity and contributing to better handling characteristics during aggressive off-road riding. Ducati is also offering several performance upgrades through its accessories catalogue. Riders can equip the bike with racing-focused components including machined wheel hubs, adjustable triple clamps and a titanium exhaust system developed by Akrapovic.

High-performance braking components from Brembo are also available for riders seeking better stopping capability. In addition to motorcycle upgrades, the brand has introduced a dedicated off-road riding apparel collection created in collaboration with Drudi Performance and Alpinestars. The new gear range has been developed to match the performance-focused nature of the motocross offering.

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New BMW M 1000 R Launched In India At Rs. 33.50 Lakh

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BMW M 1000 R is powered by a 999 cc water-cooled inline four-cylinder engine – derived from the unit used in the BMW S 1000 RR

BMW Motorrad has introduced the new BMW M 1000 R supersport roadster in the domestic market as it has consolidated its high-performance M lineup. The motorcycle arrives in the country as a Completely Built-Up Unit (CBU) and bookings are now open at authorised dealerships nationwide. Deliveries for the new model are scheduled to begin from May 2026 onwards.

The ex-showroom price of the new BMW M 1000 R starts at Rs. 33.50 lakh in India. Consumers can choose between different paint schemes including Light White non-metallic / M Motorsport and White Aluminium metallic matt. Those opting for the M Competition Package also get the Blackstorm metallic / M Motorsport colour option along with additional performance-oriented components.

As for the design, the new roadster carries an aggressive design inspired by the brand’s RR super bikes. A newly developed dual-flow LED headlight setup derived from RR models dominates the front profile while the M badge positioned in the air intake reinforces its performance identity. Aerodynamic M Winglets play a functional role by increasing front-end stability – generating additional downforce and adding around 11 kg of load on the front wheel at 220 kmph.

The motorcycle is powered by a 999 cc water-cooled inline four-cylinder engine – derived from the unit used in the BMW S 1000 RR. The acclaimed high-revving engine produces 210 hp maximum power at 13,750 rpm and 113 Nm of peak torque at 11,100 rpm. Performance figures are equally impressive with the roadster capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 kmph in just 3.2 seconds and reaching a top speed of 280 kmph.

Advanced engineering features include BMW ShiftCam technology which optimises valve timing to deliver stronger torque at lower speeds while maintaining strong peak performance. Other engine components include titanium valves, revised cam followers and optimised camshafts while a redesigned intake system improves airflow at higher engine speeds.

The new roadster is equipped with a 6.5-inch TFT instrument display featuring a dedicated M startup animation and enhanced rev counter graphics. Additional features include adaptive LED lighting, electronic cruise control, heated grips, rear USB charging socket and compatibility with the M GPS Datalogger and Laptrigger system for track use.

The motorcycle comes with Rain, Road, Dynamic, Race and Race Pro riding modes along with the latest Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) system supported by a 6-axis sensor unit. Features such as Launch Control, wheelie control, ABS Pro and a pit-lane limiter further shows the track-focused nature of the new BMW M 1000 R while still retaining everyday usability on the road.

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Exicom Opens Large EV Charging Equipment Manufacturing Facility In Hyderabad

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The new manufacturing complex from Exicom has been developed with an investment of approximately Rs. 216 crore and is spread across about 18.4 acres

Exicom Tele-Systems Limited has expanded its manufacturing operations with the inauguration of a new integrated production facility in Hyderabad. The new unit has been established to consolidate the company’s presence in power electronics manufacturing while supporting the increasing demand for EV charging infrastructure and energy solutions across multiple sectors.

The manufacturing complex has been developed with an investment of approximately Rs. 216 crore. Spread across about 18.4 acres, the facility features a built-up area of nearly 2.8 lakh square feet. In the first phase alone, the new plant is expected to raise the company’s production capacity by around 2.5 times and generate more than 750 employment opportunities in the region.

Environmental considerations were incorporated while designing the facility. Nearly 40 percent of the campus area has been allocated to green cover while a 1 MW rooftop solar power installation helps offset part of the plant’s electricity consumption. The site also includes rainwater harvesting systems and a sewage treatment plant for efficient water management and the infrastructure has been designed to comply with green building standards set by the Indian Green Building Council.

The Hyderabad plant will manufacture EV charging equipment, lithium-ion battery systems and a range of critical power solutions. These products serve various industries including electric mobility, telecommunications networks, data centres and other infrastructure segments that require reliable and uninterrupted power supply.

One of the notable developments planned at the facility is the establishment of an EV charger interoperability testing centre. The objective is to ensure that charging infrastructure works smoothly with electric vehicles from different manufacturers and across multiple charging networks. The unit will also produce TRI-FLEX liquid-cooled power modules developed by Tritium.

To support high-precision manufacturing, the plant integrates advanced automation systems, robotic production lines and digital monitoring tools based on Industry 4.0 principles. It also houses an ISO Class 8 cleanroom along with specialised testing infrastructure designed to validate product durability and performance under demanding real-world conditions.

The facility adheres to several globally recognised quality and safety standards including IATF 16949 for automotive-grade manufacturing, along with ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015 and ISO 45001:2018 certifications.

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Top 10 Hatchbacks Feb 2026 – WagonR, Baleno, Tiago, i20, i10, Glanza

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The table of top 10 hatchbacks in Feb 2025 saw Maruti Suzuki WagonR beat its siblings Swift, Baleno and Alto to finish first

Several long-time bestsellers continued to lead the hatchback charts last month while a few others recorded sharp gains compared to the same period last year. At the very top of the list was the Maruti Suzuki WagonR which registered sales of 14,885 units. Despite holding the top position, volumes declined by 25 per cent compared to 19,879 units sold in February 2025.

Just a few units behind in the second position was the Maruti Suzuki Swift with 14,833 units sold during the month. The popular hatchback saw a 9 per cent year-on-year dip from 16,269 units. Close to it was the Maruti Suzuki Baleno which garnered a domestic total of 14,632 units. Despite remaining as the premium hatchback segment’s strongest performer, Baleno sales slipped slightly by 5 per cent compared to the 15,480 units sold a year earlier.

Further down the ranking, the entry-level Maruti Suzuki Alto managed a positive performance. The model posted 9,787 units in February 2026 with a 15 per cent increase from 8,541 units in February last year. Meanwhile, the Tata Tiago endured a steady result with 7,040 units – showing marginal growth of around 1 per cent compared to the 6,954 units it recorded during the corresponding period twelve months ago.

Also Read: 5 Premium Compact SUVs To Be Launched In India By Next Year

Tata Tiago

Top 10 Hatchbacks	Feb 2026 Sales	Feb 2025 Sales	YoY
1. Maruti Suzuki WagonR	14,885	19,879	-25%
2. Maruti Suzuki Swift	14,833	16,269	-9%
3. Maruti Suzuki Baleno	14,632	15,480	-5%
4. Maruti Suzuki Alto	9,787	8,541	15%
5. Tata Tiago	7,040	6,954	1%
6. Hyundai i20	5,852	3,627	61%
7. Hyundai Grand i10 Nios	5,589	4,940	13%
8. Toyota Glanza	3,212	4,596	-30%
9. Tata Altroz	2,063	1,604	29%
10. Maruti Suzuki Ignis	1,848	2,394	-23%

Among the notable gainers in the list was the Hyundai i20. The premium hatch registered 5,852 units last month with a commendable 61 per cent increase over the 3,627 units sold during the same period last year. Another model that posted healthy growth was the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios which posted a tally of 5,589 units in February 2026.

The numbers represented a 13 per cent rise compared to 4,940 units in February 2025. In contrast, the Toyota Glanza saw its numbers drop significantly. Sales stood at 3,212 units – down 30 per cent from the 4,596 units it achieved during the same month last year. Rounding out the top ten were two Tata models and a compact Maruti hatchback.

Also Read: Renault To Launch 3 New SUVs In Different Segments In India

The Tata Altroz registered 2,063 units – recording a 29 per cent increase over 1,604 units sold last year. Meanwhile, the Maruti Suzuki Ignis closed the list with 1,848 units – down 23 per cent from 2,394 units.

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Kia To Launch 4 New Cars By Next Year – Syros EV To Carnival Hybrid

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Kia is looking to bring in as many as four new models across different segments in India and here we have explained them

Having launched the all-new Seltos and ramped up its production to a normal level in recent months, Kia is preparing to further strengthen its presence in the Indian market. The company is likely to introduce four new products by next year.

1. Kia Syros EV

The Kia Syros EV isn’t coming in early 2026 as originally planned, but it is still in the pipeline. Now expected to be launched in the middle of the year, it will compete with the Tata Nexon.ev and Mahindra XUV 3XO EV.

The Syros EV will likely come with two battery pack options with different energy storage capacities in the range of 35-45 kWh, both consisting of LFP cells produced locally by Exide Energy. It should be capable of travelling nearly 500 kilometres on a single charge. Save for a cleaner front-end and more aerodynamic wheels, the design and features will likely be nearly identical to the regular Syros.

Also Read: Kia Carens Clavis EV To Soon Get 6 Seats, GT Line & X-Line Trims; Info Leaked

2. Kia Carnival Hybrid

Around the festive season this year, Kia will likely launch the Carnival Hybrid in India. The electrified minivan combines a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 178 hp and 265 Nm of torque with an electric motor that generates 72 hp and 304 Nm of torque.

This combination delivers 242 hp of total power and 367 Nm of total torque. A 6-speed automatic transmission sends drive to the front wheels. In South Korea, the Carnival Hybrid is officially claimed to return a fuel economy of up to 14 km/l. In the Middle East, the same setup is rated for 18.6 km/l.

3. Kia MQ4i

MQ4i is the codename of Kia’s new Mahindra XUV 7XO rival, derived from the fourth-generation Sorento that debuted in 2020. It will be a three-row SUV and likely be powered by an all-new hybrid system based on a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. The exterior and interior may have only minimal design changes from the global model. Kia will likely launch this model in Q1 2027.

Also Read: 2026 Kia Sonet Launched; Diesel 6AT & Turbo Petrol 7DCT Under Rs. 10 Lakh

4. Kia Seltos Hybrid

Shortly after the Kia MQ4i, a first-ever Kia Seltos Hybrid should arrive in showrooms. It will feature a combination of the aforementioned 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine and an electric motor, which could give it a fuel economy of around 25 km/l.

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Renault To Launch 3 New SUVs In Different Segments

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More serious about the Indian market than ever before, Renault lines up multiple new models covering key high-volume segments

After a largely muted past five years, Renault is doubling down on the Indian market. The company has confirmed plans to launch four models by 2030, three of which will be SUVs and will go on sale by next year.

1. All-new Renault Duster

The Renault Duster skipped the second generation in India and is making a comeback in the third generation, with launch scheduled on 17 March. Renault has re-engineered the third-generation model for India to give it more features than any other market globally, which shows the company is serious about its presence here.

From a powered tailgate and a panoramic sunroof to electrically adjustable and ventilated front seats and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster with full map view, the India-spec all-new Duster is loaded to the brim with premium features. There’ll be a choice of 1.0- and 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engines initially, and a 1.8-litre engine-based hybrid system will follow towards the end of the year.

Also Read: 7-Seater Renault Bigster SUV Spotted Testing In India, Launch Next FY

2. Renault three-row SUV

A three-row SUV derived from the all-new Renault Duster will follow towards the end of the year. It will have a different design, one aimed at projecting more elegance and refinement, and carry a different name. Yet, the association with the two-row model will still be apparent.

Image Source: AutoBuzzIndia/YT

While the all-new Duster is not the most spacious model in its class, the three-row model will likely offer more room in the second row. The third row will likely accommodate two adults, but it will likely be a tight space. Expect more soft-touch materials, higher-quality plastics, and some more comfort and convenience features as well. Renault may offer the three-row model in 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol and 1.8-litre petrol-electric hybrid variants.

Also Read: Top 5 Highlights Of The Renault Bridger Compact SUV

3. Renault Bridger

The Renault Briger, already showcased in concept form, will be the French automaker’s compact SUV designed to take on the Mahindra Vision S’ production version as well as popular existing models such as the Tata Nexon and Hyundai Venue. It will possibly be one of the biggest models in its segment, with a boxy shape aimed at offering strong road presence and maximum space.

The Bridger could have a ground clearance of around 200 mm and a boot space of around 400 litres. Renault is aiming for great rear-seat comfort as well, targeting 200 mm of knee room. The company will likely launch it with an all-new 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine and a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine in late 2027 and introduce a hybrid system and a pure electric powertrain in a phased manner starting in 2028.

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