New Freelander Debuts Finally, Now An Electrified Off-Road SUV

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Developed through a joint effort between Jaguar Land Rover and Chery, the new Freelander sits on a modern 800V electrical platform

Global ambitions are already shaping the future of Freelander as the newly revived marque prepares to expand beyond China soon after its debut. The company has confirmed that international versions are being independently developed to suit regional requirements and real-world testing activity across Europe has commenced.

The first product under this rejuvenated lineup is a midsize electrified SUV. Developed through a joint effort between Jaguar Land Rover and Chery, the vehicle sits on a modern 800V electrical platform giving rise to multiple drivetrain options including pure electric, PHEV and range-extender configurations as the brand will provide flexibility across different markets.

Production will take place in Changshu where the new model effectively replaces outgoing internal combustion offerings like the Land Rover Discovery Sport and Range Rover Evoque. The SUV’s design is heavily influenced by the Freelander 97 concept showcased earlier – retaining much of its muscular stance and distinctive appeal.

However, certain extreme elements such as the pillarless structure and unconventional rear doors are expected to be moderated in the final production version for practicality and regulatory reasons. The new SUV pays tribute to Freelander’s heritage through details like the angled rear pillar and is complemented by a modern lighting signature and a geometric emblem.

New models from the new Freelander range are planned at roughly six-month intervals over the next five years with each offering a choice of electrified powertrains. The revival of the Freelander name is rooted in its historical success as a versatile SUV which featured usability and off-road traits as its main focus of attention.

The new generation vehicles will look to carry forward that philosophy while integrating advanced electric technologies. Having made its world premiere at an exclusive event in Beijing, China for its local market, it will be shown to public for the first time soon. Whether it will reach the Indian market or not is subjected to debate at the moment but considering the popularity of the nameplate, it could be a promising option in the distant future.

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Upcoming Hyundai Compact SUV – What We Know So Far

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Hyundai’s new compact SUV likely to slot above the latest Venue, targeting younger customers looking for more sportiness and refinement

The compact SUV segment has emerged as one of the largest and fastest-growing in India over the past decade. With the GST reductions of up to 13% announced in September last year, its popularity is expected to rise further. Hyundai already offers the Venue in this space, and later this year, it will strengthen its presence with a second model.

The new compact SUV will be the second generation of the Hyundai Bayon, which was originally unveiled in March 2021, mainly aimed at European countries. The first-gen model was never brought to our market, but the second-gen model will be sold, likely as a more dynamically styled and high-tech alternative to the second-gen Venue.

Internally referred to by the codename ‘Hyundai BC4i CUV,’ the second-gen Hyundai Bayon will be based on the same platform as the fourth-gen Hyundai i20 (codename: Hyundai BC4i). The SUV could arrive in showrooms around Diwali this year, while the hatchback may follow in the second quarter of 2027.

Also Read: New Hyundai Venue Secures 5 Stars In Bharat NCAP Crash Tests

Hyundai will manufacture the next-gen Bayon in India at its main plant in Sriperumbudur (Tamil Nadu). The company will likely offer it with the all-new Venue’s 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine that produces 88.3 kW (118 hp) and 172 Nm of torque, as well as a newly developed 1.2-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine. There’s no word on the availability of a diesel engine.

Hyundai plans to equip the next-gen Bayon with 17-inch alloy wheels internationally and could do the same in India to distinguish it from the latest Venue and more strongly emphasise the model’s dynamic character. The company may use the larger wheels exclusively in the N Line variant, which it is developing alongside the standard model.

Also Read: 3 Upcoming Hyundai Creta Rivals Coming By Diwali In India

Other key features may include all-LED lighting, front and rear disc brakes, an electronic parking brake, dual 12.3-inch cockpit displays, four USB Type-C charging ports, a wireless smartphone charger, ventilated front seats with power adjustment on the driver side, and Level 2 advanced driver assistance systems. Hyundai may also offer a dual-pane panoramic sunroof in the next-gen Bayon, in what would be another key differentiating point from the all-new Venue.

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2026 TVS Apache RTR 160 4V Launched With Major Feature Upgrades

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2026 TVS Apache RTR 160 4V gets a Class-D projector headlamp, full LED lighting setup, and assist and slipper clutch as standard

The 2026 iteration of the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V has officially gone on sale in India with a significant round of upgrades to improve safety, visibility and rider engagement. Prices for the new 4V range begin at Rs. 1,25,440 ex-showroom Delhi while the Apache RTR lineup now starts from Rs. 1,12,190. As part of the MY update, TVS has expanded the variant lineup and standardised several key features across trims.

One of the biggest highlights is the wider availability of premium features that was previously limited to the top-spec variant. The inclusion of a Class-D projector headlamp, full LED lighting setup, and assist and slipper clutch has now been extended to more variants – making the motorcycle more accessible for consumers than before.

The updated lighting system is a major step up in terms of visibility perspective and improved safety. The new projector headlamp with integrated LED Daytime Running Lights has been brought in to significantly improve night-time visibility while the all-LED package includes LED turn indicators as well enabling a more modern looking front end.

Another key mechanical upgrade comes in the form of the assist and slipper clutch which plays a crucial role in improving riding quality. It allows smoother downshifts, reduces rear wheel hop under aggressive braking and makes city riding more comfortable by reducing clutch effort. No mechanical changes have been made though as the familiar bits continue.

The 2026 TVS Apache RTR 160 4V continues to produce a maximum power output of 17.55 PS – maintaining its position as one of the most powerful offerings in the 160 cc category. It also retains its three ride modes – Sport, Urban and Rain – along with features like radial tyres, a hydro-formed handlebar and Bluetooth connectivity system with navigation and call alerts.

The variant lineup has also been streamlined to offer clearer differentiation. The base version comes with single-channel ABS and a telescopic fork while mid variants get dual-channel ABS and additional features like adjustable levers. The top-spec trim continues with upside-down front forks, traction control and a 5-inch TFT display.

Commenting on the new launch, Vimal Sumbly, Head Business – Premium, TVS Motor
Company, said, “With this latest upgrade, we are significantly enhancing rider safety, night-time visibility, and on-road control across the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V range, while delivering a premium and immersive riding experience. Every upgrade has been engineered to meet the evolving expectations of today’s performance-driven riders, without compromising on accessibility.”

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Toyota To Launch Likely 4 New Cars By Next Year

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Toyota will roll out several new models in the next 9-12 months in the Indian market, including the price reveal of its first mass-market EV

Toyota finished 2025 as the fifth biggest automobile brand in the Indian market. It outnumbered several renowned global brands such as Honda, Kia and MG by retailing over 3 lakh units last year. The company is expected to launch multiple new cars in the country to further enhance its market share. The new models will not only be limited to the facelifted versions of Toyota’s existing line-up, but will also include its first-ever mass market EV in India. Hence, in this piece, we will talk in detail about the 4 new Toyota cars likely to launch by next year in India

1. Toyota Urban Cruiser Ebella

Unveiled in Jan 2026, the Urban Cruiser Ebella will go on sale next month in the Indian market. Based on the Maruti e-Vitara, it will be available in two battery options of 49 kWh and 61 kWh with a maximum driving range of 543 km on a full charge. The all-electric SUV also boasts of Level 2 ADAS suite, 360-degree camera and 7-airbags as safety fitments.

Toyota Urban Cruiser Ebella comes loaded with an array of bells and whistles in the form of 18-inch alloy wheels, ventilated front seats, 12-colour ambient lighting, sliding and reclining rear seats, panoramic roof, JBL premium sound system, 10.25-inch driver’s display and 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Also Read: Top 25 Most Exported Cars This FY; Fronx, Jimny, Verna, Sunny, i10, Hyryder, Virtus

2. New-Gen Toyota Fortuner

The new-gen Fortuner has begun road testing and it is likely to break cover by the end of 2026 or early 2027. The spy images have suggested a more upright stance, flatter bonnet and broader front profile. Most of the styling updates will be inspired by the global-spec version of the new-gen Hilux pick-up truck which will also be launched in India in the next few months.

Speculative Rendering Based On Spy Shots

The cabin is expected to get a bigger 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, sunroof, wireless phone charging and an all-digital driver’s display. Mechanically, the new-gen Fortuner will remain unchanged with the existing 2.7L petrol and 2.8L diesel engines at the helm along with manual and automatic transmission options.

3. New-Gen Toyota Hyryder

The new-gen Toyota Hyryder could be introduced with a 7-seater variant as well, confirmed the spy pics. The new-gen model could be offered with redesigned headlamp and tail-lamp setup, tweaked bumpers, and newly-designed 17-inch alloy wheels.

2026 toyota hyryder 7 seater spied

Toyota might equip it with latest features in the form of powered tailgate, level 2 ADAS suite, powered front seats, 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system. At the heart, it will continue to the carry the 1.5L mild-hybrid and 1.5L strong hybrid petrol engines while an all-wheel-drive system could also be offered. The new-gen Hyryder is expected to debut around Sep 2026 before the festive season of Diwali kicks in.

Also Read: Toyota, Tata, And VinFast To Launch New Electric Cars Soon

4. New-Gen Toyota Hilux

Having its global premiere in Nov 2025, the new-gen Toyota Hilux will be available in both ICE and EV versions. While the global sales of the all-electric model has already begun in select markets, the ICE-powered version will be delivered to customers by mid 2026.

The new-gen Toyota Hilux is packed with advanced and upmarket features in the form of Toyota Safety Sense ADAS suite, twin 12.3-inch screens for driver’s display and central touchscreen infotainment system, wireless charging pad, blind spot monitoring system, rear USB charging ports, powered and ventilated front seats, and over-the-air (OTA) updates. The new-gen Hilux ICE model gets 2.7L petrol and 2.8L diesel engines as standard while the EV will house a 59.2kWh battery pack with dual-motor setup and 240 km WLTP range.

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Top 25 Most Exported Cars This FY – Fronx, Jimny, Verna, Sunny, i10, Hyryder, Virtus

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In the list of most exported cars in the period between April 2025 and February 2026, Maruti Suzuki Fronx led the way ahead of Jimny, Hyundai Verna and Nissan Magnite

While the domestic market adores buying SUVs and crossover, the shipments from India to foreign markets tell a whole different story. Overall, the PV exports have posted good growth this financial year with a combination of SUVs, hatchbacks and sedans contributing to high global demand as made-in-India cars are well received by consumers.

Topping the list was the Maruti Suzuki Fronx which recorded 82,384 units between April 2025 and February 2026 with a 33.8 per cent increase year-on-year. In second place, the Maruti Suzuki Jimny registered 65,471 units – growing by 49.3 per cent on a YoY basis. The Hyundai Verna followed in the third position with 59,872 units and a 26.5 per cent rise.

One of the standout performers this year was the Nissan Magnite which saw exports jump to 51,501 units with a massive 152.0 per cent growth. The Maruti Suzuki Swift also delivered appreciable numbers with 49,319 units and a 57.6 per cent increase while the Hyundai Grand i10 contributed 48,108 units with a steady 17.3 per cent gain.

Also Read: 65,000+ MG Windsor EVs Sold In India, Over 70% Sales From Non-Metro Cities

Rank	OEM	Model	April 2025–Feb 2026 Exports
1	Maruti Suzuki	Fronx	82,384
2	Maruti Suzuki	Jimny	65,471
3	Hyundai	Verna	59,872
4	Nissan	Magnite	51,501
5	Maruti Suzuki	Swift	49,319
6	Hyundai	Grand i10	48,108
7	Hyundai	Aura	37,840
8	Maruti Suzuki	Baleno	37,409
9	Maruti Suzuki	Dzire	37,285
10	Toyota	Hyryder	36,785
11	Maruti Suzuki	S-Presso	33,833
12	VW	Virtus	27,376
13	Nissan	Sunny	24,926
14	Maruti Suzuki	Celerio	21,386
15	Maruti Suzuki	e Vitara	21,229
16	Maruti Suzuki	Ertiga	18,784
17	Kia	Sonet	13,360
18	Honda	Elevate	12,722
19	Mahindra	XUV 3XO	11,499
20	Maruti Suzuki	Grand Vitara	10,917
21	Honda	City	10,427
22	VW	Taigun	10,228
23	Hyundai	Alcazar	9,456
24	Kia	Carens	7,370
25	Hyundai	Venue	5,758

Further down, the Hyundai Aura recorded 37,840 units with a 30.7 per cent rise and the Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder clocked 36,785 units – growing by 41.7 per cent. However, a few models faced headwinds with the Maruti Suzuki Baleno declining by 4.6 per cent and the Volkswagen Virtus dropping by 12.0 per cent.

There were sharper declines as well, particularly for the Nissan Sunny, which fell by 40.9 per cent and the Honda Elevate which saw exports dip by 69.7 per cent. In contrast, the Mahindra XUV 3XO emerged as a fast riser with a 104.5 per cent jump in volumes. The recently introduced Maruti Suzuki e Vitara added 21,229 units.

Also Read: Car Sales Expected To Record Over 15% Growth In H2 FY2026

The Maruti Suzuki Celerio, on the other hand, grew by 74.6 per cent and the Maruti Suzuki S-Presso increased its export volumes by 47.4 per cent. In the final five positions, Honda City finished 21st ahead of Volkswagen Taigun, Hyundai Alcazar, Kia Carens and Hyundai Venue.

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Upcoming 7-Seater SUVs, MPVs In India By 2026 – Vinfast To MG

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In the coming months, the 7-seater full-sized SUV and MPV segment will see several new entrants from key auto brands in the Indian market

The full-sized SUV and MPV segment in the Indian market is witnessing steady demand with several leading auto brands ready to launch their new models in the coming months. The segment already comprises of multiple best-selling vehicles such as Maruti Ertiga, Toyota Innova, Mahindra Scorpio and Kia Carens Clavis among others. However, the competition is likely to be further intensified with the arrival of several new models. Hence, in this piece, we will talk in detail about the upcoming 7-seater SUVs and MPVs in India in 2026.

1. Vinfast Limo Green MPV

The all-electric three-row MPV will be launched in April 2026 in the Indian market. It will direct rival Kia Carens Clavis EV which is presently the only 7-seater electric MPV in India. Likely to be positioned between VF6 and VF7 SUVs in Vinfast portfolio, the Limo Green MPV has been spotted multiple times as a test mule in the country.

The electric MPV is expected to be powered by a 60 kWh battery pack which returns a driving range of around 450 km on a full charge. It will come with 80 kW fast-charging compatibility with 10-70 percent charging time of merely 30 mins. Vinfast Limo Green MPV price could be in the bracket of Rs 18-22 lakh (ex-showroom).

Also Read: 6 New Electric Cars Spied On Test; New Honda EV To Kia Syros EV

2. Kia Carnival Hybrid

Kia will step into the ‘hybrid’ arena with the launch of the Carnival in the last quarter (Oct-Dec) of 2026. Presently, the premium MPV is only sold with a 2.2L diesel engine in the Indian market. However, the Kia Carnival hybrid will be available with a 1.6L turbocharged petrol engine and 54 kW electric motor, making it a full parallel hybrid system.

It will also house a 6-speed automatic transmission and three levels of regen braking. The hybrid version delivers a mileage of 14.5 kmpl in global markets. There is not much known about the India-spec model, but we can confirm that it will be introduced in a single fully-loaded trim instead of multiple variants.

3. Mahindra Scorpio N facelift

The brand’s most popular SUV will soon get a facelifted version with refreshed design and modern features while retaining the same petrol and diesel engines. The updates on the outside will be subtle in the form of restyled bumpers, grille and alloy wheels. However, the cabin will boast of significant upgrades as the 2026 Scorpio N will get the larger 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system from the Thar Roxx to replace the existing 8-inch unit.

It will also feature a new digital instrument cluster which again appears to be borrowed from the Thar Roxx as it fills in the shoes of the 7-inch multi-information display with analogue dials. The 2.0L petrol and 2.2L diesel engines will continue without any change in the power and torque figures.

Also Read: Tata, Mahindra, And Renault To Launch Rugged Compact SUVs

4. Renault Duster 7-Seater

Based on the Bigster concept, the 7-seater version of the Duster is expected to launch in Q4 2026 in the Indian market. The styling of the new three-row SUV will be identical to the standard model of the Duster, confirmed the spy images as it was captured on camera earlier this month in India. The feature list is also likely to be shared with the regular 5-seater version.

Image Source: AutoBuzzIndia/YT

It will be powered by the same 1.3L turbocharged petrol and 1.8L strong hybrid powertrain options for the customers. Renault has accommodated the third-row of seats by stretching the rear overhang with a bigger rear quarter glass, roof rails, and a stepped rear spoiler. Renault Duster 7-seater will rival Hyundai Alcazar, Tata Safari and Mahindra XUV 7XO in the Indian market.

5. MG Majestor

MG Majestor debuted in Feb 2026 in the domestic market in India. The price announcement of the 7-seater SUV is likely to take place next month. It comes with first-in-segment Triple Differential Locks for front, rear, and centre alongside an advanced 4WD system with 10 off-road modes.

Some of the notable features onboard the SUV are Crawl Control Mode, Level 2 ADAS, Front ventilated and massage seats with driver memory and welcome function, Three-zone climate control, Dual wireless chargers, and Electronic parking brake with Auto Hold. The Majestor SUV comes loaded with a 2.0L twin-turbo diesel engine which generates top power of 212.5 bhp and peak torque of 478.5 Nm while paired to an 8-speed auto gearbox.

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Tata, Mahindra, And Renault To Launch Rugged Compact SUVs

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New rugged compact SUVs from Tata Motors, Mahindra, and Renault to be designed and engineered to take advantage of the lowest GST rates of 18% and 5%

Rugged SUVs such as the Mahindra Thar series, the Mahindra Scorpio, and the Toyota Fortuner have been consistently gaining traction over the years. Noticing this trend, some automakers are working on implementing this formula for smaller and more affordable models. Three new rugged compact SUVs are in the works for the Indian market, all planned to be priced from well under Rs. 10 lakh (ex-showroom):

1. Mahindra Vision S

The first of these rugged compact SUVs to arrive in showrooms will be the production version of the Mahindra Vision S concept, scheduled to be launched in 2027. It will have an authentic SUV character with a high ride height, a squarish body, and details such as a high-set, flattish bonnet, muscular wheel arches and rocker panels, and raised roof rails.

Mahindra is developing this model on its future NU_IQ multi-energy platform. While it has not confirmed a pure electric powertrain option yet, this platform keeps the door open. Spy shots have confirmed premium features such as a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, a digital instrument cluster, and a large touchscreen infotainment system. The company will likely launch this model in an ICE variant with petrol and diesel engines and roll out a hybrid variant later.

Also Read: Mahindra Vision S Compact SUV (Mini Scorpio N) In The Works – What To Expect?

2. Renault Bridger

The Renault Briger, already showcased in a near-production concept version in Guyancourt, France, earlier this month, will mark the brand’s entry into the compact SUV segment in India. The company plans to launch it by the end of 2027.

Based on a modified version of the all-new Duster’s platform, the Bridger is expected to be launched in an ICE variant with an all-new 1.2-litre naturally aspirated and 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engines. Renault is developing hybrid and pure electric variants as well, and should introduce them in a phased manner at a later stage.

Also Read: 5 Upcoming Compact SUVs Worth Waiting For In India; Maruti To Renault

3. Tata Scarlet

Tata Motors is developing a new SUV to challenge the Mahindra Thar, although this model will be more rugged in looks than in off-roading capability, being based on a monocoque platform. Codenamed ‘Tata Scarlet’, the new SUV will feature a boxy shape and should have a high ground clearance of around 210 mm.

The Tata Scarlet will be available in ICE and pure electric variants, and unlike in the former, customers will get an AWD drivetrain layout option in the latter. Tata Motors could launch it sometime in 2028, about a year after the next-gen Nexon.

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