New Hyundai Elantra Debuts With Fresh Design, New Tech

Hyundai has unveiled the eighth-generation Elantra, sold as the Avante in its home market, at the 2026 Busan Auto Show. Arriving a little over six years after the launch of the outgoing CN7-generation model, the latest sedan receives a comprehensive redesign, a larger footprint, updated technology and an improved hybrid powertrain.

The new Elantra adopts Hyundai’s latest ‘Art of Steel’ design philosophy, giving the sedan a noticeably more angular appearance than before. Compared to its predecessor, it is 55 mm longer, 30 mm wider and features a wheelbase extended by 30 mm, measuring 4765 mm in length, 1855 mm in width, 1425 mm in height and 2750 mm between the axles.

At the front, the sedan gets a split-headlamp arrangement with T-shaped daytime running lights positioned above the main LED headlamp units. The front bumper features multiple blacked-out elements along with slim upper air intakes and a larger lower opening.

From the side, pronounced character lines, flared wheel arches, newly designed 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels and flush-style door handles contribute to a more aggressive profile. Hyundai has also introduced an additional rear quarter glass to visually reduce the thickness of the rear pillars.

The rear section has been completely redesigned with T-shaped LED tail lamps, an integrated lip spoiler, a prominent Hyundai wordmark and a sporty bumper finished with diffuser-inspired detailing.

The interior has been significantly updated with Hyundai’s latest Pleos Connect interface. The dashboard is dominated by a 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen paired with a slim digital instrument display. The passenger-side grab handle seen on the previous model has been removed, giving the cabin a cleaner layout.

Hyundai has retained physical controls for frequently used functions, including climate settings and media controls, alongside a new flat-bottom steering wheel featuring the brand’s four-dot motif. Other additions include ambient lighting, dual wireless charging pads and multiple storage compartments.

The eighth-generation Elantra comes equipped with a Bang & Olufsen audio system, built-in dashcam, over-the-air software updates, Digital Key functionality, 100W USB charging ports, powered front seats with memory function, dual-zone climate control, electronic parking brake with auto hold, 360-degree camera, automatic parking assist and an Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) package.

Hyundai has also introduced two new safety technologies. Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control 2 can automatically adjust the vehicle’s speed in situations such as speed-restricted zones and intersections, while Pedal Misuse Safety Assist is designed to intervene if the driver accidentally presses the accelerator instead of the brake.

Powertrain options remain familiar. The naturally aspirated 2.0-litre petrol engine continues to produce 149 HP and is paired with a CVT automatic transmission.

The 1.6-litre hybrid, however, has been upgraded to produce 157 HP, representing an increase of 16 HP over the previous version. Hyundai says the hybrid also benefits from an improved transmission, electric motor and battery.

Additional efficiency-focused technologies include a smart regenerative braking system that adjusts regeneration levels based on navigation and traffic conditions, along with a predictive hybrid control system that manages battery usage according to the planned route.

The hybrid model also gains a new Stay Mode, allowing occupants to operate features such as climate control and infotainment for a limited period without the petrol engine running.

While Hyundai has retained the Elantra’s existing powertrain lineup, the latest generation focuses on design, technology and efficiency improvements, positioning it as a more feature-rich successor to the outgoing model.

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Delhi EV Policy 2026 – Incentives Up To Rs. 1 lakh, ICE 2W Ban & More

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Delhi EV Policy 2026 proposes purchase incentives of up to Rs. 1 lakh, complete tax exemption, charging expansion and a phased shift away from petrol, diesel and CNG vehicles

Delhi has outlined one of India’s aggressive electric mobility plans through its new EV Policy 2026. The proposal aims for electric vehicles to account for 95 per cent of all new registrations as early as next year and also lays down timelines that would gradually end new registrations of several internal combustion engine vehicle categories over the next two years.

Among the biggest regulatory changes is the proposal to discontinue new CNG auto rickshaw registrations from January 2027. Existing diesel and CNG auto permits will also be phased out in stages. The policy goes a step further from April 2028 by proposing that new registrations of petrol, diesel and CNG-powered two-wheelers should stop altogether – leaving electric models as the only option for new registrations in the segment.

Financial incentives continue to play a key part in the proposal. Zero-emission cars will qualify for an incentive of Rs. 10,000 per kWh – subject to a maximum benefit of Rs. 1 lakh. Electric two-wheelers, on the other hand, will receive Rs. 5,000 per kWh up to Rs. 30,000 while electric three-wheelers will be eligible for Rs. 10,000 per kWh with a ceiling of Rs. 45,000.

Vehicle owners replacing older internal combustion engine models with electric vehicles have also been included in the proposal. The scrappage package offers incentives reaching Rs. 1 lakh based on the vehicle category – reducing the overall purchase cost for eligible customers switching to electric cars and it could prove to be attractive for many.

Apart from purchase incentives, the Delhi government has proposed a complete waiver of road tax and registration charges for electric vehicles. Removing both charges substantially lowers the on-road price and adds another financial benefit over conventional petrol, diesel and CNG-powered vehicles as part of promoting the use of EVs to bring down alarming pollution levels.

Delhi intends to expand its public charging network as well and develop additional fast charging corridors and battery-swapping stations to stimulate buyers while encouraging charging facilities across residential and commercial developments to accommodate the expected rise in electric vehicle numbers to form an entire ecosystem.

Government departments and public agencies will progressively induct electric vehicles into their fleets while battery collection, recycling and end-of-life management have also been incorporated to address the entire ownership cycle instead of vehicle sales alone. Delhi estimates the policy could attract investments of around Rs. 15,000 crore across the electric mobility ecosystem.

Charging infrastructure, vehicle manufacturing, battery services, recycling facilities and associated industries are all expected to benefit if the proposal moves ahead as planned. If implemented in its current form, the Delhi EV Policy 2026 could reshape one of India’s largest automotive markets over the next few years.

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Mahindra Vision SXT Design Patented – Baby Scorpio N Based Off-Road SUV?

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Mahindra Vision SXT was one of the four concepts showcased in August 2025 alongside the modular NU_IQ monocoque platform

The Vision S has been undergoing road tests for several months and now, the design patent images have surfaced online for the Vision SXT – raising the possibility that Mahindra could be preparing a second model on the same platform giving more importance to off-road character. The possibility remains speculative for now as the company has not confirmed production plans and design patents often never progress beyond the filing stage.

The patent drawings retain almost every signature element seen on the Vision SXT concept. Up front sits an upright fascia with a rectangular grille carrying multiple vertical inserts, sleek headlamp units positioned high on the corners and vertically stacked lighting elements below them. The front bumper is heavily sculpted and incorporates a sizeable skid plate while the flat bonnet and short front overhang suggest an SUV designed with off-road geometry in mind.

Its profile is equally distinctive as the Vision SXT features squared wheel arches housing large all-terrain tyres, a near-flat roofline, upright pillars and generous ground clearance. Thick tubular protection bars run along the lower portion of the body doubling as rock sliders and visual highlights. The patent also shows production-spec door mirrors, pull-type door handles, integrated roof rails and sturdy side steps.

The concept displayed two externally mounted spare wheels but the patent replaces them with a single rear-mounted spare tyre. The tailgate, rear bumper and lighting have also been simplified compared to the show piece. If Mahindra eventually decides to build the Vision SXT, it could sit just above the Vision S – potentially making way for another off-roader.

The Vision S may serve as the mainstream SUV from the NU_IQ family while the Vision SXT could target enthusiasts looking for a more purpose-built off-road machine. Both concepts were introduced during Mahindra’s Freedom_NU showcase where the company revealed the Vision S, Vision T, Vision X and Vision SXT. All four are based on the modular NU_IQ architecture.

It has been developed to accommodate petrol, diesel and electric powertrains, multiple wheelbase options, front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive and all-wheel-drive configurations. The flexible platform has also been developed for both domestic and international markets. As for Vision SXT, four-wheel drive would appear to be a natural fit given the vehicle’s proportions, body protection and off-road styling cues shown in both the concept and the patent.

Should Mahindra eventually approve the Vision SXT for production, it could add another dedicated off-roader to its expanding SUV portfolio. Coupled with the Vision S that is already deep into road testing, the patent hints that Mahindra may be preparing two distinctly different SUVs from the same NU_IQ family.

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Jaguar Land Rover Recalls More Than 2.5 Lakh SUVs

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has announced a recall affecting over 250,000 vehicles in the United States following the identification of a potential issue related to the driver’s airbag system. The recall has been issued in coordination with the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

According to the safety regulator, the campaign covers select Land Rover Defender, Discovery and Range Rover models sold in the American market. The issue involves the driver’s airbag clockspring connector, which may be susceptible to corrosion over time.

If corrosion develops within the connector, it could interfere with the electrical connection required for proper airbag deployment during a collision. As a result, the driver’s airbag may not function as intended in certain crash scenarios, potentially increasing the risk of injury.

To address the concern, Jaguar Land Rover dealers will inspect the affected vehicles and apply a protective lubricant gel to the connector terminals. The repair will be carried out at no cost to customers.

Vehicle recalls are a common part of the automotive industry’s safety and quality assurance process, allowing manufacturers to address potential defects before they result in larger issues. Owners of affected vehicles are expected to be notified through the standard recall process and advised on the next steps for inspection and repair.

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Tata Motors To Bring In 6 New Nameplates By FY31 – What Could They Be?

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Tata Motors’ FY31 roadmap lists 15 nameplates, six new additions and more than 20 facelifts or refreshes for India

The Sierra EV is the most apparent model in Tata Motors’ future product chart as its launch date has already been confirmed. The electric SUV appears in the company’s presentation under additional products and it will become one of the first new entries in the FY31 roadmap. The model will sit alongside the Harrier EV, Curvv EV, Nexon EV, Punch EV and Tiago EV in the brand’s growing electric range.

The same investor day’s presentation also confirms an expanded passenger vehicle portfolio as Tata plans to have 15 nameplates by FY31 – up from its current group of Tiago, Tigor, Altroz, Punch, Nexon, Curvv, Sierra, Harrier and Safari. The company has listed six new nameplates and more than 20 facelifts or refreshes as part of the plan.

The Avinya is the next confirmed name in this lot. The homegrown manufacturer’s premium electric project has already moved through concept and X concept stages and the first production model is expected by mid-2027. The Avinya X will adopt the Chery-JLR Freelander EV platform instead of the earlier JLR EMA derived one due to perhaps cost reasons.

Representational

Tata is also preparing a separate retail format for Avinya. The range will sit above current electric models and will target a more premium customer base and a sportback could be the first offering. Two hidden silhouettes in the presentation point to further products but Tata has not named them. One could be linked to the Avinya family, while another could be a new SUV or a family vehicle. Their body styles, platforms and market positions remain under wraps for now.

The Safari EV is another strong candidate for the future list. Tata already sells the Harrier EV and an electric Safari would allow the company to extend the same approach into a three-row configuration. The model has been part of industry speculation for some time but Tata has not confirmed its launch name or timeline. We expect it to arrive within the next 12-18 months to take on Mahindra XEV 9S.

A seven-seater electric MPV could also be among the future additions. Tata has shown interest in consolidating its EV range across different body styles and an MPV would give the brand another family-based option to take on the likes of upcoming Maruti Suzuki YMC and its Toyota derivative along with the Kia Carens Clavis EV. Let alone, more IC-engined and alternative fuel options.

Rumoured Tata names such as Scarlet and Blackbird have often surfaced over the years. Blackbird was earlier linked to a midsize SUV slot between Nexon and Harrier while Scarlet has also appeared in discussions around future Tata products. We can expect Tata to bring in more compact models down the line as the segment is key for garnering high volume sales.

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2026 Renault Kwid Facelift Debut This Week – Big Interior & Design Updates

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2026 Renault Kwid entry-level hatchback is set for a major design update with Dacia Spring-inspired styling and cabin revisions

Renault will introduce the updated version of the Kwid on July 3 in the domestic market. The facelift is expected to receive a noticeable exterior revision while the cabin could gain a larger screen and a redesigned dashboard layout. The biggest visual updates come from the Dacia Spring EV sold overseas and spy shots emerged late last year indicate the same.

The 2026 Renault Kwid gains a new face with Y-shaped LED daytime running lamps, a revised grille section and reshaped bumper section. The main headlamp units could still be halogen keeping costs under control in the budget hatchback space. The rear end changes are also expected to follow the same lighting theme to keep it in cohesion.

The facelifted Kwid could get Y-shaped tail-lamps, a redesigned bumper and other minor visual tweaks around the tailgate area. The hatchback will retain its compact dimensions as it measures 3,731 mm in length, 1,579 mm in width and 1,474 mm in height. It features a 2,500 mm wheelbase and a high ground clearance of 184 mm currently.

Image Source: weguideauto/instagram

The French manufacturer is also expected to offer a new set of alloy wheels on top-spec variants. The facelift could give the Kwid a closer family link with Renault’s latest global design language. The dashboard will more likely see a bigger change than ever before as the test mule images point to a larger central infotainment touchscreen and we expect improved connectivity options as well.

The steering wheel and instrument cluster could also be revised. Meanwhile, cabin trim, centre console detailing and switchgear arrangement may get minor changes as well with six airbags as a standard fitment. Mechanical changes are not expected for the updated Kwid as the hatchback should retain the familiar 1.0-litre, three-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine producing around 68 hp.

Image Source: weguideauto/instagram

Transmission choices should stay with a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT. The current Kwid has a claimed mileage of 21.7 kmpl to 22.5 kmpl based on the variant level and gearbox. The model is sold in variants such as Authentic 1.0, Evolution 1.0, Evolution 1.0 AMT, Techno 1.0, Techno 1.0 AMT, Climber 1.0 and Climber 1.0 AMT.

Prices for the upcoming Kwid could range between Rs. 4.50 lakh and Rs. 6.50 lakh (ex-showroom) as the facelift could sit a minor increase. The updated Kwid comes just a few months after the new generation Duster while its seven-seater version and an A-segment EV are also in the pipeline.

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Next-Gen Hyundai Creta Not To Far Away – Top 5 Things To Know

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Next-gen Hyundai Creta likely to bring major upgrades in nearly every aspect, aimed at securing the model’s top position in the segment

Tata Motors, Renault, Kia, and a number of other brands have grabbed headlines with major mid-size SUV launches in recent months. The Hyundai Creta, however, remains unfazed, continuing as the segment’s best-seller. What’s more, Hyundai is working on the most comprehensive makeover yet for its popular mid-size SUV, with plans to introduce it for the third generation in 2027. Here are five things you need to know about the next-gen Hyundai Creta:

1. All-new platform

Image Source: car_charcha/Instagram

The next-gen Hyundai Creta will sit on an all-new ‘K3’ platform that improves structural rigidity, enhancing safety. Supporting better noise insulation and stability, the K3 platform would also pave the way for a more refined driving experience.

Also Read: Hyundai & Kia To Introduce Affordable EVs In India Soon

2. Bigger, brawnier, and roomier

Inspired by the Hyundai Crater concept, the next-gen Hyundai Creta will likely have a much more rugged and masculine exterior. Significant gains in dimensions will further elevate its road presence. The wheelbase will likely be 80 mm longer, reaching 2,690 mm. The length should be about 120 mm longer, measuring around 4,450 mm. The width is expected to grow by at least 30 mm, touching or exceeding 1,820 mm. These changes should bring marked improvements in both passenger and boot space.

Spy Source:
amarttyajit_sinha/instagram

3. More comfortable

In addition to more space, the next-gen Hyundai Creta will likely have wider and more advanced seats to offer enhanced comfort. The driver’s seat should feature not only power reclining and sliding functions like the current model but also power lumbar support. This will likely be in addition to memory and ventilation, with the latter available even in the front passenger seat. Hyundai may also offer a dual-zone automatic climate control system to further make the next-gen more competitive in this aspect.

Also Read: New Gen Hyundai Elantra Breaks Cover With Radical Design

4. More high-tech

The next-gen Hyundai Creta will likely adopt the company’s new cockpit display concept, where the infotainment system uses a large tablet-style display and the instrument cluster comes in a compact, slim display. The former should measure 12.9 inches diagonally and the latter 9.9 inches.  Android Automotive OS would make using the infotainment system much easier, bundling native apps for essential services like Google Maps and Google Voice and providing a smartphone-like experience.

Spy Source:
amarttyajit_sinha/instagram

5. Hybrid-ready

Unlike the current Creta, the next-gen model will be ready to adopt a hybrid powertrain. Hyundai may launch it only with petrol and diesel engines shared with the current model, but a few months down the line, it will likely roll out a hybrid system based on a 1.5-litre petrol engine. The company could be targeting a fuel economy of around 25 km/l and will likely offer an additional vehicle-to-load (V2L) bi-directional charging function in the hybrid variant.

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