Hyundai To Launch New Compact EV To Rival Punch EV

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Value-priced Tata Punch.ev’s monopoly in its segment to be challenged by a new entrant from Hyundai early next year

Hyundai’s first three EVs in India, namely the Kona Electric, Ioniq 5, and Creta Electric, haven’t met with much success. The company is now working on the fourth EV, which will be a significantly more localised, India-specific product and is expected to be its most crucial launch in this space.

The upcoming Hyundai electric model will be an “A+” segment SUV that would compete with the Tata Punch.ev. Hyundai has started testing its prototypes with the production design on public roads, and spy shots of these test mules have revealed several details. The company has given the upcoming model a proper SUV look with a squarish, tall body, as well as high ground clearance, protective cladding, chunky alloy wheels, and raised roof rails.

Internally known by the codename ‘HE1i’, Hyundai’s compact EV will have futuristic details as well, aimed at appealing to young, tech-savvy customers. Sleek front and rear lights would integrate the company’s signature parametric pixel theme, while flush-fitted door handles would bring a touch of sleekness and add to the sophistication brought by those technical-looking lights.

Also Read: Upcoming Hyundai Bayon SUV For India; Top 5 Things You Should Know

Inside, the upcoming Hyundai EV should be clean and highly digital, incorporating a new design language. It will debut a 9.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, both running a new software based on Android Automotive OS. Hyundai would include physical controls for basic functions such as speaker volume, AC temperature and fan speed, and seat ventilation to ensure good ergonomics, though.

The Hyundai HE1i will likely be offered in two variants, one with a lower-output motor and a smaller battery pack and one with a higher-output motor and a larger battery pack. Both battery packs will likely integrate LFP cells sourced locally from Exide Energy. The larger unit should have an energy storage capacity of around 40 kWh and deliver a range of 475-500 kilometres.

Also Read: Tata, Hyundai, Toyota & Kia Ready Major New Electrified SUV Launches In India

Hyundai plans to launch the compact EV in the first quarter of 2027 and could unveil it at Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2027 on 4 February 2027. The company will likely price the new electric SUV from just under Rs. 10 lakh (ex-showroom).

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Deliveries Of Royal Enfield’s First EV ‘Flying Flea C6’ Commence In India

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Royal Enfield Flying Flea C6 uses a 3.91 kWh battery and a permanent-magnet synchronous motor producing 20.65 bhp and 60 Nm; boast a range of 154 km

The Flying Flea C6 has reached its first customers in Bengaluru – opening the delivery chapter for the first electric motorcycle associated with Royal Enfield. The motorcycle costs Rs. 2.79 lakh, ex-showroom Bengaluru, in its conventional ownership format. The Battery-as-a-Service option lowers the initial purchase price to Rs. 1.99 lakh by separating battery usage costs from the vehicle price.

The electric powertrain uses a 3.91 kWh battery and a permanent-magnet synchronous motor producing 20.65 bhp and 60 Nm. The motor sends drive to the rear wheel through a belt removing the chain maintenance associated with conventional motorcycles. The C6 accelerates from zero to 60 kmph in 3.7 seconds and reaches a maximum speed of 115 kmph.

The claimed IDC riding range stands at 154 km per charge. The onboard charging system replenishes the battery from zero to 100 per cent in 2 hours and 16 minutes under standard ambient conditions. The frequently used 20 to 80 per cent charging window requires 65 minutes – allowing owners to add a substantial amount of range in just over an hour.

The battery contains 224 laser-welded Nickel Cobalt Aluminium cells housed inside a finned magnesium casing. The casing also works as a structural heat sink while the battery pack receives IP67 protection against dust and water ingress. The high-voltage electrical architecture reduces resistance across the battery and drive systems while controlling heat generation.

The chassis uses a weld-free forged aluminium exoskeleton that extends visually from the steering area towards the swingarm. The magnesium battery enclosure and cast alloy wheels assist in reducing mass across the motorcycle. The front suspension uses a girder-fork arrangement inspired by the original wartime Flying Flea – giving the C6 one of its key visual and mechanical identifiers.

The circular 3.5-inch TFT touchscreen sits at the centre of the cockpit and supports full-map navigation through the connected ecosystem. The electronics package comprises phone-as-key functionality, cruise control, selectable riding and charging modes, keyless access, an electronic handlebar lock and Auto Hold for inclines. The storage compartment houses a three-coil wireless phone charger and a USB Type-C charging port.

The safety suite brings lean angle sensitive ABS and traction control adapting electronic intervention according to the motorcycle lean position. The C6 can also carry a pillion and is offered in Flea Green and Storm Black paint schemes. The neo-retro bodywork, exposed frame, finned battery enclosure, compact proportions and circular display connect the electric platform to the lightweight Flying Flea motorcycle created during the 1940s.

The Bengaluru service arrangement uses a hub-and-spoke structure designed to cover owners across the city. The main workshop at BTM Layout will undertake specialised repairs and technical work while smaller spoke locations will manage scheduled maintenance and routine service requirements. The current retail presence is centred on the Flying Flea outlet in Jayanagar.

The post Deliveries Of Royal Enfield’s First EV ‘Flying Flea C6’ Commence In India appeared first on Gaadiwaadi.com - Latest Car & Bike News by Surendhar M.

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Upcoming Kia Sorento To Challenge Skoda Kodiaq & VW Tayron

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New Kia SUV to be targeted at large families, emphasising comfort, convenience, and refinement, along with value pricing and good fuel economy

The Skoda Kodiaq and VW Tayron premium D-segment SUVs are currently the only two options in their segment for customers prioritising comfort, space, and refinements over the road presence of body-on-frame SUVs like the Toyota Fortuner and MG Majestor. In the coming months, the Kia Sorento will enter this space, giving customers a better option in terms of efficiency and value.

Positioned between the Kia Sportage and Kia Telluride internationally, the Kia Sorento measures 4,815 mm in length, 1,900 mm in width, and 1,700 mm in height and has a 2,815 mm wheelbase. Kia has developed it in 5-, 6-, and 7-seat versions, and it is likely to offer the three-row configurations in India.

What will truly differentiate the Kia Sorento from the Skoda Kodiaq and the VW Tayron will be heavy localisation. While the German models are imported in knocked-down kits, assembled in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra, the South Korean model will be manufactured locally, in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh. This would allow Kia to price the Sorento much more competitively.

Kia offers the Sorento in ICE, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid variants. Interestingly, it has decided to launch the hybrid variant in India, which could offer segment-leading fuel economy and further give it an edge over its German competitors. Internationally, the hybrid system is based on a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, which is assisted by an electric motor that draws energy from a 1.49 kWh battery pack. A 6-speed automatic transmission sends drive to the wheels, and an all-wheel drive system is available as an option.

Packing 176 kW (236 hp) and 380 Nm of torque, the Sorento Hybrid hits 0 to 100 km/h in 8.8 seconds in the FWD configuration and 9.0 seconds in the AWD configuration. It can achieve a top speed of 120 km/h in EV mode and 196 km/h using both electricity and petrol. According to WLTP, the Sorento Hybrid delivers a fuel economy of 15 km/l (FWD)/14 km/l (AWD). It is worth noting that WLTP fuel economy figures are typically much stricter but more realistic than MIDC ratings applicable in India.

In India, since Kia does not manufacture the 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine, reports say it may use the locally produced 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine to keep the costs in check. This could translate into better fuel economy but could severely impact performance. It is possible that Kia could use a turbocharged version of the smaller engine instead. The company will likely launch the Sorento Hybrid in India sometime in the fourth quarter of 2026.

The post Upcoming Kia Sorento To Challenge Skoda Kodiaq & VW Tayron appeared first on Gaadiwaadi.com - Latest Car & Bike News by Amit Rawat.

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Hero Xpulse 421 Undergoes High-Altitude Testing In The Hands Of Dakar Rally Riders

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Hero Xpulse 421 is expected to make its global debut at the EICMA show in Milan and it will be equipped with a new liquid-cooled engine

The forthcoming Hero Xpulse 421 will sit at the top of the company’s adventure motorcycle range when it enters dealerships before the end of this year or in early 2027. The dual-purpose adventure tourer will compete against the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and KTM 390 Adventure in the middleweight category and its Indian launch could take place following the possible world debut at EICMA 2026 in Milan, Italy.

The motorcycle will use a newly developed 421 cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine mounted inside a steel trellis frame. The official power and torque figures have not been announced by Hero MotoCorp but we expect it to be around 40 hp. The larger displacement will place the upcoming model well above the Xpulse 210 in output and highway capability.

The wheel combination is expected to be a 21-inch front and an 18-inch rear fitted with wire spokes. The dual-purpose tyres should support paved roads, gravel tracks and rough trails. The long-travel suspension points towards an off-road based setup suited to the intended role of the motorcycle. The latest test mule has appeared on the internet after a brief hiatus.

It was filmed during high-altitude testing in Ladakh. The camouflaged Xpulse 421 was seen travelling alongside several Xpulse 210 motorcycles and the Hero 450 Rally race bike. The riding group reportedly included Hero MotoSports Dakar Rally Team members Ross Branch and Nacho Cornejo as the brand looks to take in every necessary feedback before preparing the production version.

The participation of experienced rally competitors indicates that Hero is using competition input during final validation. The Ladakh conditions allow the company to assess engine response, cooling, chassis behaviour and suspension operation at high elevations. The ever demanding terrain also gives the development team an opportunity to evaluate the motorcycle across loose surfaces and steep gradients.

The heavy camouflage conceals many production details but the overall adv stance can still be identified apparently. The tall windscreen, large fuel tank, wire-spoke wheels, extended suspension travel and upright stance match the equipment seen on earlier test motorcycles. The bodywork carries a narrow rear section and a substantial front profile suited to the larger engine platform.

The prototype suggests that the Hero Xpulse 421’s development programme is moving towards production validation. The EICMA show in November 2026 could host the first official presentation of the finished motorcycle. The pricing, final specifications, equipment list and local availability should be disclosed closer to the market introduction.

The post Hero Xpulse 421 Undergoes High-Altitude Testing In The Hands Of Dakar Rally Riders appeared first on Gaadiwaadi.com - Latest Car & Bike News by Surendhar M.

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Mahindra Vision S (Mini Scorpio N) Spied Testing Again In Production Form

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Mahindra Vision S based compact SUV is expected to slot above the XUV 3XO and could share engine and transmission options with it

The Mahindra Vision S has returned to public roads in near-production guise again. The latest prototype carries road-ready body panels, production lighting units, conventional door and finished exterior proportions beneath extensive camouflage. The market introduction is expected in early 2027 after a possible public presentation in the closing months of 2026.

The new NU_IQ architecture forms the technical base for the upcoming SUV and can accommodate combustion-powered as well as fully electric derivatives. The flexible construction should allow Mahindra to develop several versions from the same foundation while retaining a compact footprint including a Vision X based crossover.

The Vision S will occupy a separate space below the Scorpio N while drawing visual inspiration from the larger SUV. To likely share engine and transmission choices with the XUV 3XO, the entry-level 1.2-litre turbo petrol mill could produce 111 hp and 200 Nm and can be paired to either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed torque converter automatic.

Vision S Concept

The more powerful 1.2-litre direct-injection turbo petrol unit develops 130 hp and 230 Nm while using the same gearbox choices. The 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel could serve customers seeking higher torque and lower fuel consumption. The diesel motor generates 117 hp and 300 Nm in the XUV 3XO and currently works alongside a six-speed manual or a six-speed AMT.

The photographed test vehicle shows an upright front fascia dominated by round projector headlamps and a tall grille divided into several vertical openings. The narrow strips extending outwards from the main lamps could be part of the daytime running light arrangement. The lower bumper carries a wide central intake, rectangular openings and upright outer sections that may house fog lamps.

Vision S Concept

The bonnet sits almost level before meeting a steeply raked windscreen – creating the tall nose associated with the Scorpio family. The roof maintains a nearly horizontal line from the front pillars to the rear while the overhangs help preserve the compact appearance. The squared wheel openings, exposed black extensions, deep lower-door trim and substantial ground clearance enable a rugged profile amidst the monocoque construction.

The side view confirms a five-door layout supported by tall windows and a compact quarter-glass panel behind the rear doors. The large outer mirrors are mounted close to the front pillars while the pull-type handles could make it to production as well. The alloy wheels seen on the prototype look close to production specification.

The cabin has not been revealed clearly in the latest photographs but earlier prototypes pointed towards an interior developed specifically for the Vision S. The dashboard could use a horizontal arrangement, upright air vents, a digital instrument display, and a central touchscreen. The equipment list may also cover automatic climate control, connected functions, a panoramic sunroof, and several driver assistance systems.

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Patrol-Inspired Nissan Tekton SUV Teased Ahead Of Launch On July 9

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Nissan Tekton will derive power from a 1.0L turbo petrol, a 1.3L turbo petrol and a 1.8L strong hybrid petrol engine

Nissan has dropped another teaser of the upcoming Tekton SUV ahead of its global unveiling on July 9. Placed alongside the flagship Patrol in the teaser, the Tekton gets several visual themes from its larger sibling while carving out a distinct appeal of its own. It is expected to spearhead Nissan’s next phase of growth across multiple markets including India.

The family resemblance is immediately evident in the teaser with the presence of a tall upright stance, squared-off front end and horizontal elements dominating the design. The Patrol’s imposing grille treatment appears to have influenced the newcomer while the Tekton introduces a full-width LED lighting arrangement stretching across the nose. Illuminated Nissan badging sits at the centre while slim daytime running lights and vertically stacked lighting signatures frame the front fascia.

The upright bonnet, broad shoulders and high-set roofline show Nissan’s focus on cabin room and road presence. The teaser also reveals roof rails, a muscular front bumper and sculpted surfacing around the wheel arches. Large “TEKTON” lettering across the leading edge of the bonnet can also be seen.

Underneath the skin, the Nissan Tekton will utilise the same platform shared with the latest Renault Duster which went on sale a few months ago. The overall length could sit in the 4.3-metre range – placing it squarely in the midsize SUV segment. A three-row seating configuration is destined for several markets including India under a different name in the near future.

Powertrain choices are expected to mirror developments within the Alliance portfolio. A 1.0L and a 1.3L turbocharged petrol engine will be accompanied by a 1.8L strong hybrid petrol mill while manual and automatic transmission options will help ensure an expansive range.

Nissan Tekton

A fully digital cockpit, a large touchscreen infotainment system, connected vehicle functions, panoramic sunroof, a 360-degree camera setup, ventilated and powered seats and an extensive suite of driver assistance technologies will be available. The Japanese manufacturer is also working on an A-segment electric vehicle for the future while the Tekton and its upcoming three-row sibling are expected to drive volumes in soon.

The post Patrol-Inspired Nissan Tekton SUV Teased Ahead Of Launch On July 9 appeared first on Gaadiwaadi.com - Latest Car & Bike News by Surendhar M.

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Next-Gen Kia Sonet To Be More Spacious And Feature-Rich

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Kia’s India-focused sub-4 metre SUV set to undergo a full makeover next year and challenge the likes of Renault Bridger and Tata Nexon

The Kia Sonet, the South Korean automaker’s first product in India’s booming compact car market, has helped the brand grow significantly since its launch in 2021. A full redesign is in the works, programmed to be rolled out in 2027, and it will make the Tata Nexon rival a more appealing product in several aspects.

The next-gen Kia Sonet will be bigger than the current model and address one of the main shortcomings of the current model – space. Kia has started testing the redesigned model on public roads, and images captured of early prototypes clearly indicate it will be bigger.

Based on a new ‘K1’ platform, the next-gen Kia Sonet will likely be 10-15 mm wider and have an approximately 50 mm longer wheelbase. It should offer better shoulder room and leg room in the rear. The all-new model will communicate its larger footprint with a stronger, more imposing exterior design. Split headlamps, an upswept beltline, a sleeker greenhouse, and T-shaped tail lights are likely to be among the key design changes.

Also Read: 4 New Kia SUVs Undergoing Testing In India; Key Details

Image Source: Yash Suthar/X

Inside, the next-gen Kia Sonet would have a more contemporary design and leverage the K1 platform’s new E/E architecture to incorporate new dashboard displays, including a 12.3-inch HD instrument cluster, a 5-inch climate touchscreen, and a 12.3-inch HD infotainment touchscreen, running the ccNC software. A panoramic sunroof and Level 2 advanced driver assistance are also expected to be among the main upgrades.

The next-gen Kia Sonet will likely be introduced with the familiar 82 hp/115 Nm 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol, 118 hp/172 Nm 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol, and 114 hp/250 Nm 1.5-litre turbocharged diesel engines. 5-speed manual, 6-speed automatic, and 7-speed dual-clutch automatic will likely be the available transmission choices.

Also Read:Tata, Hyundai, Toyota & Kia Ready Major New Electrified SUV Launches In India

Image Source: Yash Suthar/X

At the 2026 CEO Investor Day held in April, Kia confirmed plans to launch a hybrid variant of the Sonet. The company will introduce it a year or two after the lifecycle makeover next year, in 2028 or 2029. The hybrid variant is likely to be significantly more fuel-efficient than the ICE variant and likely to be essential when Kia decides to axe the diesel option in the future due to stricter emission norms.

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