Skoda Kodiaq RS Bookings To Open On June 22 – India’s Fastest Skoda SUV

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Skoda Kodiaq RS will pack a 2.0-litre TSI turbocharged petrol engine producing 265 hp and feature an AWD system as standard; will be sold in limited quantity

Skoda Auto India will open bookings for the new Kodiaq RS on June 22 bringing the iconic RS badge back to the country’s SUV space. The high-performance version of the second generation Kodiaq will sit at the top of the lineup and arrive as the quickest and most powerful Skoda SUV ever introduced in India. Deliveries are expected to commence soon after the launch.

The Kodiaq RS carries a much more aggressive appearance than the standard model. A gloss black grille, black exterior accents, RS-specific bumpers, larger alloy wheels and exclusive badging will help distinguish it from regular variants. The front fascia also gains a sportier treatment while the rear section features a full-width lighting element and RS branding.

In addition, contrast red brake calipers will further separate the performance-based SUV from the standard model. Power comes from a 2.0-litre four-cylinder TSI turbocharged petrol engine producing a maximum power output of 265 hp and 400 Nm of peak torque. The motor is married to a seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox and an all-wheel-drive system as standard.

Compared to the previous-gen Kodiaq RS sold internationally, output has increased while efficiency and refinement have also received attention. The performance figures are expected to be among the strongest in the segment. International specifications indicate a 0 to 100 kmph sprint in just 6.3 seconds while top speed is electronically limited to around 231 kmph.

It will also pack more electronics and advanced tech to improve overall dynamics. Adaptive chassis control, progressive steering and revised suspension tuning will also be part of the package. Inside the cabin, the Skoda Kodiaq RS will receive sport seats with integrated headrests, RS-specific upholstery, contrast stitching and unique trim inserts.

A large touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument cluster, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, wireless smartphone charging and a premium audio system are expected to be part of the equipment list. Safety features will also be comprehensive including multiple airbags, electronic stability control, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, front and rear parking sensors, a 360-degree camera and a suite of ADAS functions.

It must be noted that the latest Kodiaq has already benefited from significant upgrades in technology and safety compared to its predecessor. The Kodiaq RS is based on Volkswagen Group’s latest MQB Evo architecture and measures over 4.75 metres in length.

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BMW M Concept Breaks Cover At Le Mans Previewing New Electric M3

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The M Concept Neue Klasse previews what the future high-performance electric M cars could look like especially the M3 EV

BMW has taken the wraps off the M Concept Neue Klasse at the 24 Hours of Le Mans providing the clearest indication yet of what the future high-performance electric M cars could look like especially the M3 EV. The concept previews a new design direction for BMW M while introducing a new electric powertrain featuring four motors, an 800-volt architecture and a battery pack of more than 100 kWh capacity.

More importantly, it demonstrates how BMW intends to carry its motorsport DNA into the electric era. The biggest talking point lies underneath the bodywork. BMW has developed a new M eDrive system specifically for future all-electric M products. The setup combines four electric motors with BMW M Dynamic Performance Control software integrated into the company’s new computing system enabling individual wheel control for both power delivery and braking functions.

BMW says the system can also deliver extremely high recuperation capability while improving response times. The powertrain is built around BMW’s sixth generation Neue Klasse tech. An 800-volt electrical architecture forms the foundation while a high-voltage battery with more than 100 kWh of energy capacity provides the energy source. BMW has also developed a dedicated M-specific version of its sixth-gen cylindrical battery cells to offer higher output during acceleration as well as faster charging capability.

The battery structure is integrated directly into the vehicle architecture and contributes to chassis rigidity and handling. On the outside, the concept gets an aggressive stance with wide wheel arches, pronounced shoulders and muscular proportions. BMW has deliberately linked the design to motorsport through several functional aerodynamic elements like reworked M aerodynamic mirrors, a prominent bonnet air outlet and a large rear diffuser.

A distinctive ducktail spoiler sits at the rear to increase downforce while complementing the clean surface treatment. The front end gains several features that are expected to influence future M models. The traditional kidney grille and headlamp units have been merged into a single design element. Yellow lighting graphics, known as M Yellow Lights, reference endurance racing machinery including the BMW M Hybrid V8. The concept also debuts new three-dimensional Track Lights integrated into the bumper sections. Similar elements appear at the rear where they frame the diffuser assembly.

BMW has placed a strong emphasis on lightweight and sustainable materials. Natural fibre components can be found in several areas including the front splitter, diffuser and bonnet air outlet. The material also appears within the roof graphics where BMW has incorporated subtle M branding. A newly developed Monza Red metallic exterior finish and centre-lock wheels featuring red and blue accents further connect the concept to BMW’s motorsport heritage.

The cabin follows a minimalist approach with four newly developed bucket seats featuring integrated natural-fibre structural elements while a dual-tone combination of Bathurst Blue and Berry Red Merino leather references BMW M colours. Red five-point harnesses elevate the race-inspired theme while BMW has also introduced black nubuck leather across the steering wheel, door panels and roll structure.

A floating dashboard finished in black knit material features illuminated hexagonal detailing unique to M products while contrast red accents appear on the steering wheel controls, gear selector and digital displays. Every aspect of the interior has been configured around performance driving according to the brand.

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Skoda Kylaq Sportline To Launch In India This Festive Season – All Key Details

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Skoda Kylaq Sportline is expected to slot between mid-spec variants and the higher Prestige grades while carrying a more aggressive exterior theme

Skoda will consolidate the Kylaq’s range this festive season with the introduction of a new Sportline variant which was confirmed earlier this year. The compact SUV has already emerged as a key volume model for the Czech manufacturer and the upcoming trim will add a sportier flavour to the lineup. The new version is expected to slot between mid-spec variants and the higher Prestige grades while carrying a more aggressive exterior theme.

The Sportline treatment will primarily enable exterior revisions. Darkened design elements, black-finished alloy wheels, black exterior accents and Sportline badging could differentiate it from the standard Kylaq. Similar treatment has already been seen on other Sportline-badged Skoda products sold internationally as well as in India – Kushaq and Slavia. Cosmetic upgrades are expected to be the primary talking point rather than mechanical revisions.

Under the bonnet, the Skoda Kylaq Sportline is expected to continue with the familiar 1.0-litre three-cylinder TSI turbocharged petrol engine. The motor develops 115 hp and 178 Nm of torque and is mated to either a six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed torque converter automatic transmission. No output changes are expected for the Sportline version.

The Czech brand could introduce a new eight-speed AT found in the recently facelifted Kushaq. The compact SUV is underpinned by Volkswagen Group’s MQB A0 IN architecture which also serves as the foundation for the Kushaq, Slavia, Taigun and Virtus. Feature availability is expected to mirror higher variants in the existing range as well.

Equipment such as a touchscreen infotainment system, wireless smartphone connectivity, automatic climate control, digital instrumentation, cruise control, wireless charging and connected car technology could be part of the package. Safety equipment list will comprise six airbags, electronic stability control, hill hold assist, tyre pressure monitoring and rear parking assistance amongst others.

skoda Kylaq

More details regarding features, colours, pricing and variant positioning are expected closer to launch. India may not get the performance-based RS variant of the Kylaq as the SUV sits at the bottom of the brand’s portfolio. Currently, the Kylaq is priced between Rs. 7.5 lakh and Rs. 12.9 lakh (ex-showroom) and is available in Classic, Classic+, Signature, Signature+, Prestige and Prestige+ trim levels.

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New Gen Hyundai i20 Fully Leaked – Revised Design & Big Cabin Updates

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The new generation Hyundai i20 is expected to go on sale sometime next year in India with massive revisions inside and out

The new generation Hyundai i20 has leaked ahead of its global debut next month and the images reveal one of the biggest transformations in the premium hatchback’s history. Instead of sticking to a conventional hatchback shape, Hyundai appears to have pushed the new i20 towards crossover territory. The leaked photographs show chunkier bodywork, extensive black cladding, connected lighting elements and a completely redesigned cabin packed with new technology. The Indian-spec version is expected to arrive later with subtle changes.

The exterior design marks a dramatic departure from the current model. The front fascia features slim headlamp units connected by a black trim piece stretching across the width of the nose. Distinctive Y-shaped LED lighting signatures can be seen inside the headlamp clusters while the bumper gets a far more angular appearance. The nose appears taller and more upright than before and from certain angles, the design even bears similarities to compact crossovers.

The side profile reinforces that impression. Thick black plastic cladding surrounds the wheel arches, lower doors and bumpers creating a SUV-inspired look. The roofline remains familiar but the body surfaces appear sharper and more sculpted. Newly designed alloy wheels, a prominent shoulder line and a floating roof effect further differentiate the hatchback from the outgoing generation. The overall visual stance appears taller despite retaining compact dimensions.

Image Source: Koreancarblog

Perhaps the most controversial styling element can be found at the rear. The leaked images show triangular tail lamp clusters connected by a slim horizontal red lighting strip running across the tailgate. A large black panel covers the width of the rear section while the bumper receives chunky silver inserts and a more upright design. Compared to the current i20, the rear end looks considerably more experimental.

The cabin receives an equally significant overhaul. The leaked interior image reveals a massive curved display stretching across much of the dashboard. Both the digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen sit within a single housing and Hyundai’s latest three-spoke steering wheel design has also been introduced. Physical shortcut buttons remain below the screen while the centre console gains a more minimalist layout. Vertical air-conditioning vents, a rotary climate control dial and a two-tone black and beige colour scheme can also be seen.

Image Source: Koreancarblog

Depending on the market and trim level, the hatchback could gain upgraded connected car functions, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, over-the-air software updates, wireless charging, enhanced voice controls and a suite of ADAS features globally. Under the bonnet, India could retain the familiar powertrain lineup.

Entry-level variants are expected to continue with the 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing around 83 hp and 114 Nm. Meanwhile, high-spec grades should carry forward the 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol motor generating 120 hp and 172 Nm. Manual and automatic gearbox options are expected to remain available.

Image Source: Koreancarblog

While several global markets are also expected to receive mild-hybrid technology paired with petrol engines, Brazil and certain international regions could additionally receive flex-fuel versions including a turbocharged 1.0-litre unit. Mild-hybrid assistance remains a possibility for India as well but official confirmation has not emerged yet.

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12 New Hero Two-Wheelers Incoming As EV & Scooter Plans Accelerate

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Hero MotoCorp likely plans to bring in new Vida electric scooters, new Xoom scooters And premium motorcycle offerings in FY27

Hero MotoCorp is preparing for an aggressive expansion phase in FY27 as the company moves its attention towards electric scooters, premium motorcycles and higher capacity two-wheelers. While commuter motorcycles still account for a significant portion of overall volumes, the country’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer is investing heavily in new segments.

A major pillar centers on the Vida electric scooter range. Hero plans to substantially increase production capacity and is targeting nearly three times higher EV output before the end of calendar year 2026. The company expects electric scooters to contribute a much larger share of overall sales over the next few years and believes EVs could account for more than 50 per cent of total scooter volumes by the end of this decade.

Vida retail and service operations are being expanded region by region while localisation efforts are being accelerated simultaneously. Higher local sourcing levels are expected to reduce costs and improve supply chain efficiency as production volumes increase. Earlier, Hero had also outlined plans to achieve nearly 90 per cent PLI coverage for its electric vehicle portfolio before FY27.

Also Read: Electric 2W Retail Sales May 2026 – TVS Beats Bajaj & Ather, Hero Surges 158%

The Xoom lineup has emerged as one of the brand’s main targets and production capacity is being significantly expanded in response to higher demand. The company is also increasing output for the Destiny range as industry trends indicate that scooters are accounting for a larger share of two-wheeler sales across India and Hero is looking to capitalise on that.

Hero is preparing more than 12 new launches across electric and internal combustion engine segments including flex-fuel models. Several of these upcoming products are expected to target the premium motorcycle category and the increasingly competitive 125 cc plus space. The company already entered middleweight space through products such as the Mavrick 440 and the Harley-Davidson X440 partnership.

Also Read: Hero Launches Flex Fuel Splendor+ & HF Deluxe, Priced From Rs. 72,792

Harley Davidson X440T

Additional launches are expected to consolidate the portfolio further and improve Hero’s presence in categories traditionally dominated by rivals such as Royal Enfield, Honda, Bajaj and TVS. Hero MotoCorp sold close to 55 lakh motorcycles and more than 5.7 lakh scooters in the last financial year and quarterly profit during the final quarter of FY26 saw a substantial increase too.

It is expected to allocate around Rs. 1,500 crore in FY27 towards EV expansion, research and development, future mobility solutions and product development activities. Hero has also been expanding its footprint across several international markets while bringing in products to meet local requirements.

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3 New Midsize SUVs From Tata, Nissan And Honda Arriving Soon

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Mid-size SUV wave to continue in the second half of the year, with Tata Motors, Nissan, and Honda bringing fresh products

The first half of 2026 saw six mid-size SUV launches in India, including the all-new Kia Seltos, the new Skoda Kushaq, the all-new Renault Duster, the Maruti e Vitara, the new VW Taigun, and the Toyota Urban Cruiser Ebella. In the second half of the year, three more mid-size SUVs will be launched.

1. Tata Sierra.ev

Tata Motors has just confirmed plans to take the wraps off the Sierra.ev on 30 June. The company will likely launch the electric mid-size SUV in July. It plans to offer it in RWD and AWD configurations, with the latter aimed at outdoorsy customers who are into adventure touring.

The Tata Sierra.ev will have a more polished appearance at the front, but the rest of its exterior will look nearly the same as the regular Tata Sierra. Inside, visual changes are expected to be even fewer. The electric variant will offer a better ride quality, thanks to an independent rear suspension.

Also Read: 2026 Tata Tiago EV Facelift Detailed Drive Review & 100-0% Range Test

2. Nissan Tekton

Also expected to be launched in July is the Nissan Tekton, the Japanese automaker’s successor to the Nissan Terrano. The Nissan Tekton will be closely related to the all-new Renault Duster, utilising the same platform, engines, transmissions, and E/E architecture, which has been upgraded specially for India.

The Nissan Tekton will have the same shape as its corporate cousin from Renault, but it will still look visibly different with a sharper and more elegant design, with some cues borrowed from the Nissan Patrol. Its interior is likely to appear much more similar, though. A hybrid variant is expected to be introduced around early 2027.

Also Read: 7 New Cars Launching Soon In India This June; Honda To BMW

3. New Honda Elevate

Sometime in August or September, Honda will likely launch a facelifted version of the Elevate, also known as the WR-V in some markets. The updated model will likely feature restyled bumpers, redesigned headlamps, tweaked tail lights, and new alloy wheels for a refreshed look.

Honda Elevate ICE

No major design changes are expected on the inside, although new features such as electrically adjustable and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a 360º camera system could be added to improve comfort and safety. The 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine should remain unchanged and be offered with the same 6-speed MT and CVT options.

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Skoda Sales Analysis May 2026 – Kylaq, Kushaq, Slavia & Kodiaq

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Skoda posted total domestic sales of 5,760 units in May 2026, registering a 15 per cent decline compared to 6,740 units sold during the same month last year

Skoda Auto India recorded domestic sales of 5,760 units in May 2026 by registering a 15 per cent decline compared to 6,740 units sold during the same month last year. Its volumes also dropped 16 per cent from 6,886 units posted in the previous month of April. The Czech brand’s notable growth from the Kushaq was offset by weaker contributions from the Kylaq, Slavia and Kodiaq.

The Kylaq remained Skoda’s most sold product despite a decline. The compact SUV posted sales of 3,443 units in May 2026 compared to 4,949 units during the corresponding month last year – resulting in a 30 per cent drop. Its monthly volumes also slipped by 16 per cent from 4,089 units recorded in April. Even with the decline, the Kylaq accounted for nearly 60 per cent of Skoda’s total domestic volume during the month.

The biggest positive bit came from the Kushaq. Sales more than doubled to 1,310 units from 644 units registered in May 2025 with a huge 103 per cent year-on-year increase. The midsize SUV competes against the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Honda Elevate, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Victoris, MG Astor and Toyota Hyryder amongst others.

Model	May 2026	May 2025	YoY Growth
Kylaq	3,443	4,949	-30%
Kushaq	1,310	644	103%
Slavia	861	937	-8%
Kodiaq	146	208	-30%
Superb	0	2	0%
Octavia	0	0	0%
Total	5,760	6,740	-15%

The Kushaq is offered with a 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine producing 115 hp and 178 Nm while higher variants use a 1.5-litre TSI petrol engine generating 150 hp and 250 Nm. Transmission choices comprise six-speed manual, six-speed automatic and seven-speed DSG options. The Slavia sedan contributed 861 units in May 2026 against 937 units a year earlier.

The figures resulted in an 8 per cent decline. As opposed to many sedans that have witnessed notable contractions in recent years, the Slavia managed a modest 4 per cent increase over April 2026. Sharing its MQB-A0-IN platform and engine lineup with the Kushaq, the Slavia remains one of the few midsize sedans offering turbo petrol engines across the range.

At the premium end, the Kodiaq registered 146 units compared to 208 units in May 2025 with a 30 per cent decline. However, monthly volumes improved by 26 per cent over April. The flagship SUV is powered by a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine producing 204 hp and 320 Nm and is coupled with a seven-speed DSG transmission and all-wheel-drive system.

A closer examination of the numbers shows the Kylaq and Kushaq accounted for 4,753 units out of Skoda’s total tally of 5,760 units. The numbers mean more than 82 per cent of the brand’s domestic volume came from its two SUV offerings. The appreciable growth delivered by the Kushaq due to the arrival of the facelift also demonstrates that demand for midsize SUVs remains healthy.

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