Skoda Slavia & VW Virtus Facelifts Coming Soon – Here’s What To Expect

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Skoda and Volkswagen are expected to update the Slavia and Virtus in the coming months with feature additions, cosmetic tweaks and a new automatic gearbox for the 1.0-litre TSI engine

Skoda Auto India and Volkswagen India recently updated the Kushaq and Taigun with a handful of feature additions instead of giving them a full-fledged facelift. The same strategy might be headed towards their sedan siblings. The Slavia and Virtus are expected to receive similar upgrades in the coming months, making them better equipped without altering their overall package.

One of the biggest updates is likely to be the introduction of a new six-speed automatic transmission with the 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine. The existing torque converter is expected to make way for a newer unit aimed at improving both drivability and fuel efficiency. The gearbox will continue to be offered alongside the six-speed manual, while the 1.5-litre TSI is expected to retain the seven-speed DSG.

Just like the recently updated Kushaq and Taigun, the Slavia and Virtus are expected to gain a few premium features that buyers have been asking for. These could include front seat ventilation, an auto-dimming inside rear-view mirror, rear sunshades, upgraded upholstery, improved ambient lighting and new cabin trims. Skoda’s updated cars also received a massage function for the front seats, and there’s a possibility that the Slavia could get it too.

Also Read: Skoda India Posts Record Growth In H1 2026, 38,894 Units Sold

The changes on the outside are expected to be minimal. Both sedans could receive new alloy wheel designs, fresh paint options, and subtle cosmetic revisions to keep them looking fresh. Since the Virtus and Slavia still have modern styling, Volkswagen and Skoda are unlikely to make any major changes before the next-generation models arrive.

These updates come at an important time. India’s love for SUVs is undeniable, but the Virtus and Slavia have managed to carve out a loyal customer base among buyers who still prefer sedans. Adding more features while improving the automatic powertrain should make both cars more competitive against rivals like the Hyundai Verna and Honda City.

Also Read: Skoda Peaq Flagship Electric SUV Unveiled With 7 Seats & 630 Km Range

Neither Skoda nor Volkswagen have officially confirmed a launch date yet, but the refreshed Slavia and Virtus are expected to reach dealerships in the coming months. Going by what we’ve seen on the Kushaq and Taigun, the focus will be on giving buyers more value rather than reinventing two sedans that are already among the best driver’s cars in their segment.

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Upcoming Electric Cars From Maruti, Hyundai & Tata Worth Waiting For

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Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai and Tata Motors are preparing to strengthen their EV portfolios with new electric vehicles aimed at very different sets of buyers

India’s electric future is looking bright. We are about to get three more new EVs from three different brands. Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai and Tata Motors are expected to introduce new electric vehicles over the next few months. Interestingly, each one is targeting a different segment of the market.

1. Maruti Suzuki Electric MPV

Image Source: CarIndiaNews

Maruti Suzuki has made no secret of its EV ambitions. While the e Vitara will spearhead its electric journey, the company is also believed to be developing an electric MPV based on the upcoming YMC platform. The model is expected to offer a spacious three-row cabin and focus on practicality rather than outright performance. It will likely be powered by a 49 kWh or a 61 kWh battery pack. Expect the car to compete with the likes of the Kia Carens Clavis EV. Pricing will be competitive, likely in the Rs 18 L to Rs 21 lakh range.

Also Read: Maruti Model Wise Sales June 2026 – Dzire, Swift, Fronx, Victoris, Brezza, Vitara

2. Hyundai Compact Electric SUV

source: carxplain08/Insta

Hyundai also appears to be working on a new compact electric SUV that will slot below the Creta Electric. The new model is expected to be in the sub-4 meter category. There’s also speculation that it could borrow its underpinnings from the upcoming Syros EV. If that is true, Hyundai’s EV will have the same battery packs with a maximum claimed range of over 500 km. This would make it a practical option for everyday use as well as the occasional highway trip. This would be Hyundai’s most affordable EV that goes in sale in India.

Also Read: Upcoming MG 7-Seater PHEV & Electric SUV To Target Mahindra & Tata SUVs

3. Tata Safari EV

Tata Motors has already electrified the Punch, Nexon, Curvv, Harrier and recently the Sierra, making the Safari EV the next logical addition to the lineup. The car is already undergoing tests and has been spotted several times. The electric SUV is expected to share much of its technology with the Harrier EV, including its battery pack and dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup in higher variants. The familiar three-row layout will remain one of its biggest strengths, offering buyers an electric SUV without compromising on practicality.

Tata Safari EV Rendering

The interesting part is that all three manufacturers are approaching electrification differently. Maruti seems to be betting on practicality, Hyundai is looking to make EVs more accessible and Tata is continuing to build on its already strong electric portfolio. That should give buyers more choice than ever before, irrespective of their budget or requirements.

Electric cars are steadily moving into the mainstream and manufacturers are no longer treating them as niche products. With these three models expected to arrive over the next few years, India’s EV market looks set to become even more competitive. And for buyers, that’s always welcome news.

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5 New Cars Launching In India In July-August 2026

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Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Toyota Hilux, Kia Syros EV, Mahindra Scorpio N facelift and MG Hector Hawk are among the key new cars expected to arrive in India over the next two months

The Indian car market is set for a busy couple of months. There are five new cars set to launch in the coming weeks. The best thing, there is something for every kind of buyer be it a compact SUV, a large SUV, a lifestyle truck, a strong hybrid or an EV. Let’s take a look at what’s in store for the next couple of months.

1. 2026 Maruti Suzuki Brezza

The first major launch will be the updated Maruti Suzuki Brezza, which is scheduled to arrive later this month. The compact SUV is expected to receive styling changes and a larger touchscreen, but the biggest talking point could be the addition of the Boosterjet turbo-petrol engine. This engine produces 109 bhp and 170 Nm. This could give the Brezza a much-needed performance boost while also helping it take advantage of the lower tax slab for smaller petrol cars. The updated Brezza is expected to retain the existing 1.5-litre petrol and CNG powertrains as well.

Also Read: 2026 Maruti Suzuki Brezza Facelift Bookings Open, Teased For The 1st Time

2. New Toyota Hilux

Toyota will unveil the updated Hilux on July 28. The pickup is expected to get a sharper design and a more modern cabin while retaining its rugged character. The biggest mechanical update could be the addition of a 48V mild-hybrid system to the existing 2.8-litre diesel engine. Toyota has already introduced this technology on the Fortuner, so bringing it to the Hilux would make sense. It will carry forward the rugged off-road character and will be offered in 4×2 and 4×4 trims.

3. Kia Syros EV

The Syros EV has already been unveiled and official bookings are now open. The electric SUV will sit below the Clarens Clavis EV in Kia’s India portfolio and is expected to target buyers looking for a practical and relatively accessible electric car. With the Nexon EV and Windsor EV occupying this part of the market, the Syros EV will have plenty of competition from day one. However, being a Kia, its long feature list might give it an upper hand.

Also Read: Kia Syros EV Variant-Wise Features, Range, Specs, Interior & More Detailed

4. Mahindra Scorpio N Facelift

The Mahindra Scorpio N is also expected to receive a facelift in the coming months. Mahindra is likely to focus on updating the SUV’s features and cabin rather than making major changes to its successful design. A larger touchscreen, a digital driver’s display and other equipment upgrades are expected, while the existing petrol and diesel engines should continue. The Scorpio N has built a strong following since its launch, so Mahindra would be wise not to fix what isn’t broken.

5. MG Hector Hawk Strong Hybrid or PHEV

MG Motor India is also expected to introduce the Hector Hawk in this period. The model is likely to bring a sportier appearance and additional equipment to the Hector range. The car did get a design refresh a few months ago, this one will probably be a powertrain addition. This could be MGs debut strong hybrid in the Indian market. Details are scarce but expect this SUV to get a battery big enough to run 40 to 50 km in pure EV mode. There is also a speculation that the Hector Hawk could be a Plug-in Hybrid based on Wuling Starlight 560. We will have to wait a couple of months to see what actually comes.

The next two months should therefore be interesting for car buyers. From Maruti’s volume-selling compact SUV to Toyota’s rugged pickup and Kia’s new electric offering, these launches cover very different segments. Mahindra and MG, meanwhile, are looking to keep two established SUVs relevant with new updates. For buyers, the biggest problem might simply be deciding what to wait for.

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5 New Mahindra SUVs Worth Waiting For Over The Next 12-18 Months

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Here we have brought you a rundown of the 5 new Mahindra SUVs that are expected to hit the market within the next year and a half

Mahindra has more SUVs waiting in the pipeline for India as the company prepares additions to both its internal combustion engine and electric vehicle range. Compact SUVs, larger family models and new EVs are expected to join the brand over the next couple of years. Here is a look at the Mahindra SUVs that could debut in India in the near future.

1. Mahindra Vision S

The Vision S is expected to become Mahindra’s new compact SUV and it will likely reach Indian showrooms in early 2027. The model will slot between the XUV 3XO and the Scorpio N giving the brand another monocoque SUV in the sub-Rs. 10 lakh segment. The SUV will ride on the all-new NU_IQ platform. An upright stance, squared-off bodywork and high ground clearance will define its stance.

Spy Source: NamascarMotors/YouTube

The new architecture should also free up additional cabin room while offering improved ride and handling characteristics compared to conventional ladder-frame SUVs. Turbocharged petrol and diesel engines already available in Mahindra’s portfolio are expected to be carried over as the same units from XUV 3XO could be utilised.

Also Read: Mahindra Has 16 New SUVs In The Pipeline – Here’s Everything Coming Next

2. Mahindra Scorpio N Facelift

The Scorpio N is also expected to receive a mid-cycle update in the coming month or two. While visual changes are likely to remain restrained, Mahindra is understood to be placing greater emphasis on tech and features to keep the SUV competitive. A revised front and rear lighting setup, newly designed alloy wheels and minor exterior revisions are expected. The cabin could gain a larger infotainment system, updated connected car functions and additional driver assistance features. Changes to the powertrain are unlikely.

3. Mahindra Thar 3-Door Facelift

Pic Source: mrd_vlogs

The three-door Thar is another SUV Mahindra will implement the facelift treatment on later this year judging by the test mules. The off-roader will share a number of updates with The Thar Roxx bringing its equipment list closer to its five-door sibling. Test mules have already hinted at changes to the front fascia, revised LED lighting, etc. The cabin could also feature a larger touchscreen infotainment system.

Also Read: Mahindra Sales Analysis May 2026 – Scorpio, Thar, XUV 7XO, Bolero, XEV 9S

4. Mahindra BE 07

The BE 07 will sit above the BE 6 in Mahindra’s electric SUV range upon launch sometime next year. Built on the INGLO platform, the coupe-SUV is expected to feature a larger battery pack than the BE 6. Multiple motor configurations, large 12.3-inch triple screen displays, connected car functions, Level 2 ADAS, bi-directional charging, powered tailgate, multiple airbags, heated and ventilated seats are also expected.

5. Mahindra Vision T

Mahindra has not revealed many details about the production version yet. The electric SUV is expected to take inspiration from the Vision T concept while riding on a dedicated EV platform. A boxy styling, a premium cabin and high off-road capability are expected while technology shared with Mahindra’s born-electric SUVs could also feature. It could make its debut after the Vision S based compact SUV.

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Kia To Launch 3 All-New SUVs Soon In India – 2 Hybrids & 1 EV

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Kia India is preparing to strengthen its SUV portfolio in India with three new models that will cater to premium, hybrid and electric vehicle buyers

Kia India has had a busy couple of years with products like the Syros, Carens Clavis, Carens Clavis EV and the latest Seltos keeping the momentum going. The company doesn’t seem to be slowing down either. Over the next couple of years, Kia is expected to expand its SUV portfolio with three important launches. Interestingly, each of them targets a completely different buyer, helping the brand cover more ground in an increasingly competitive market.

1. Kia Sorento

The Sorento has been on Indian enthusiasts’ wish lists for years. While Kia has never officially sold it here, changing customer preferences could finally work in its favour. Positioned above the Carnival, the Sorento would give Kia a proper three-row premium SUV to rival the likes of the Toyota Fortuner, MG Gloster and Skoda Kodiaq. Internationally, it is offered with petrol, diesel and hybrid powertrains, but Kia could opt for the hybrid version if it decides to bring the SUV to India. Whether it arrives as a CBU or CKD remains to be seen. This is one SUV that will do well in India if priced right.

Also Read: Kia Syros EV Variant-Wise Features, Range, Specs, Interior & More Detailed

2. Kia Seltos Hybrid

Kia Seltos Hybrid

The Seltos continues to be one of Kia’s strongest performers in India and the hybrid model is expected to take things a step further. This would be a first in Kia India’s line-up. The Seltos hybrid is already on sale in the global market. It is powered by a 1.6 L petrol engine combined with an electric motor. With rivals such as the Toyota HyRyder and Maruti Grand Vitara already offering strong hybrid options, the Seltos will just heat up the competition thanks to its superior feature offering.

Also Read: Kia Carens Range Gets Past 3 Lakh Units In India; 60% Petrol Buyers

3. Kia Syros EV

Kia Syros EV will be launched this month. Kia India has already revealed the car design and bookings are open at Rs 25,000. The design is quite similar to the ICE Syros, while getting EV specific styling. This will be Kia India’s second mass market EV after the Carens Clavis EV but in a more affordable segment. The Syros EV will get two battery packs, a 51.4 kWh claiming a 526 km range and a 42 kWh pack claiming a 443 km range. We can expect 400 km + real-world range with the bigger battery. With more affordable EVs finding favour among Indian buyers, the Syros EV could become an important volume driver for the brand.

Kia has built a reputation for launching products that closely match what Indian buyers are looking for. A premium three-row SUV, a hybrid midsize SUV and an affordable electric SUV cover three of the fastest-growing segments in the market today.

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Top 10 Most Sold Cars H1 2026 – Dzire, Punch, Nexon, Creta, Scorpio

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In the list of most sold cars in H1 2026 in India, Maruti Suzuki, Tata Punch and Nexon had close battle for the first position

The Maruti Suzuki Dzire headed the PV sales chart during the first half of 2026 by recording a domestic tally of 1,26,204 units. The Tata Punch came second at 1,19,303 units – leaving a gap of only 6,901 units between the two nameplates. Meanwhile, its sibling, the Tata Nexon finished  in the third position with 1,18,166 units – just 1,137 units below Punch.

The Dzire was the only model to cross 1.20 lakh units during the first six months of the 2026 calendar period. The Punch and Nexon also stayed very close as the three were separated by a small margin of around 8,000 units – placing the trio of sub-four-metre models at the head of the table. Compact dimensions, multiple powertrain choices and retail reach kept these cars ahead of larger SUVs and premium hatchbacks.

The Maruti Suzuki Ertiga occupied the fourth position after registering 1,08,295 units. Its result made it the only MPV among the ten entries and the fourth vehicle to exceed one lakh units. The WagonR tall riding hatchback took fifth at 1,00,704 units – extending Maruti Suzuki’s presence in sedan, MPV and hatchback categories inside the first five ranks.

Rank	Model	H1 2026 sales
1	Maruti Dzire	1,26,204
2	Tata Punch	1,19,303
3	Tata Nexon	1,18,166
4	Maruti Ertiga	1,08,295
5	Maruti WagonR	1,00,704
6	Maruti Swift	97,747
7	Maruti Baleno	96,996
8	Maruti Fronx	95,441
9	Hyundai Creta	91,391
10	Mahindra Scorpio	89,375

The Swift, Baleno and Fronx filled the next three places for the largest car producer in the country. The Swift recorded 97,747 units while Baleno ended the January to June 2026 period at 96,996 units. Only 751 units separated the two hatchbacks when looked closely. The Fronx followed at 95,441 units – keeping the gap to Baleno at 1,555 units.

Maruti Suzuki consequently occupied five consecutive places from fourth to eighth. The Hyundai Creta was the highest ranked midsize SUV and the fourth most sold SUV in the country by finishing ninth after 91,391 units. The Mahindra Scorpio closed the top ten at 89,375 units. The Creta led Scorpio by 2,016 units while both trailed Fronx by fewer than 6,100 units.

It must be noted that the combined sales across the ten models reached 10,43,622 units during H1 2026. Maruti Suzuki accounted for six entries and 6,25,387 units while Tata contributed 2,37,469 units through Punch and Nexon. Hyundai and Mahindra completed the chart through Creta and Scorpio respectively.

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Volkswagen ID. Cross Debuts As Affordable Electric SUV With Up To 427 Km Range

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New MEB+ based global compact SUV, the Volkswagen ID. Cross, arrives with two battery options, three power outputs and an entry price of around 28,000 euros (Rs. 30.84 lakh)

Affordable electric SUVs are becoming a bigger priority for European manufacturers and Volkswagen has now entered the segment with the all-new ID. Cross. Built on the MEB+ platform, the compact EV debuts with up to 427 km of WLTP range, three power outputs and prices starting below 28,000 euros (Rs. 30.84 lakh approximately).

Occupying the space below Volkswagen’s larger electric SUVs, the ID. Cross measures 4,153 mm in length, 1,794 mm in width and 1,581 mm in height while its 2,601 mm wheelbase delivers a noticeably roomier cabin than the combustion-powered T-Cross. Boot capacity stands at 475 litres helped by additional storage beneath the variable luggage floor.

The front trunk provides space for charging cables and smaller items at 25 litres. Models fitted with the larger battery can also tow trailers weighing up to 1,200 kg. Power comes from Volkswagen’s latest APP290 front-mounted electric motor which is available in 85 kW (116 PS), 99 kW (135 PS) and 155 kW (211 PS) forms. Consumers can choose between 37 kWh and 52 kWh battery packs and the latter offers a WLTP-certified driving range of up to 427 km.

AC charging is rated at 11 kW while DC fast charging reaches 90 kW with the smaller battery and 105 kW with the larger pack. Volkswagen says the battery can be replenished from 10 to 80 per cent in about 23 to 24 minutes based on the version.

The exterior boasts a clean profile, upright proportions and a floating roof treatment along with sleek lighting signatures at both ends, pronounced C-pillars and illuminated Volkswagen badges, optional IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlamps and 3D LED tail lamps. The cabin gains a minimalist layout finished with soft-touch materials, fabric-covered dashboard panels and metallic switchgear.

A 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro sits ahead of the driver while a 12.9-inch central touchscreen houses Volkswagen’s latest infotainment system. One distinctive feature is a retro display mode that recreates the instrument graphics of the original Golf while retaining modern functions such as road sign recognition. Wireless connectivity, connected services and over-the-air software support are integrated into the new infotainment architecture.

Volkswagen has also introduced assistance systems generally reserved for larger vehicles. The optional Connected Travel Assist can respond to traffic lights by automatically slowing the vehicle when a red signal is detected within system limits. Other available equipment comprises One Pedal Driving, 360-degree camera, Park Assist Pro with smartphone-controlled remote parking and an adaptive DCC suspension for the 155 kW version.

Buyers can opt for 12-way electrically adjustable front seats featuring pneumatic massage, driver memory function, a 425-watt Harman Kardon audio system with ten speakers, a panoramic glass roof, heated front seats, heated steering wheel and Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability delivering up to 3.6 kW of external power.

Volkswagen will offer the ID. Cross in Trend, Life and Style trims. Even the entry-level Trend variant receives DC fast charging as standard while the Life trim adds 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, adaptive cruise control, rear-view camera and Junction Assist. The flagship Style version offers IQ.LIGHT matrix headlamps, illuminated front and rear Volkswagen logos, heated seats, heated steering wheel, personalised cabin trim and keyless entry.

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