Page 22- All Automotive News

Mahindra is developing hybrid and range-extender powertrains for future SUVs, including the XEV 9e and XUV 7XO, as EV adoption remains slower than expected and hybrid demand rises in India.

This week saw the launch of the BMW M440i Convertible, new Tata Nexon and Harrier variants, price cuts for Jaguar Land Rover models, and Honda's announcement of upcoming City and ZR-V launches, plus Nissan's CNG retrofit for Gravite.

Mahindra's XUV 7XO continues to see strong demand at dealerships, especially for the AX7 Tech trim, leading to waiting periods of up to three months. No official discounts are available, but accessory packages are offered optionally.

The 2026 Skoda Kodiaq now features ADAS in Sportline and L&K variants, comes in three variants with five colour options, and is expected to cost up to Rs 75,000 more than before. Key rivals include Kia Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe.

India is under economic strain as the Straits of Hormuz closure disrupts oil imports, causing daily losses of ₹1,000 crore. Despite global price hikes, India has not raised fuel prices, intensifying pressure on government finances.

India’s passenger vehicle market kicked off FY2026 with compact SUVs and trusted hatchbacks ruling the charts. This April 2026 sales report ranks the top 25 models by wholesales.

Hyundai Motor India will launch two new SUVs in FY2025-26, including a compact electric SUV and a premium mid-size model. The company reported record sales and export growth, expanding its manufacturing footprint in India.

Tata Motors has launched the Nexon Pure+ PS variant with a panoramic sunroof at Rs 9.59 lakh ex-showroom Delhi. The new trim offers multiple powertrain options and advanced features, strengthening the Nexon's value proposition.

Norton Motorcycles, backed by TVS Motor, has launched the Manx R supersport in the UK at GBP 20,250. The 1200cc V4 engine produces 206 bhp. Four variants are offered, with a possible India launch but no set date.

BMW India emphasizes the need for a faster India–EU trade deal to strengthen the luxury car market and improve affordability.

Force Motors has raised Gurkha prices in May 2026 by up to Rs 35,646. The 3-Door now costs Rs 16.31 lakh and the 5-Door Rs 17.63 lakh, both with standard features and a 2.6L diesel engine.

Hyundai Motor India reported a 5.4% year-on-year rise in Q4 revenue to ₹18,916 crore, with EBITDA margin narrowing to 10.4%. The company saw growth in domestic and export volumes and plans new model launches and capacity expansion.

Hyundai Motor India projects EBITDA margins of 11-14% and 8-10% growth in sales and exports for FY27, driven by new SUV and EV launches, stronger rural and CNG sales, and expanded production capacity.

Mahindra will ramp up XEV 9S electric SUV production to meet strong demand, with current output at over 6,000 units monthly. Planned expansions, including a new Nagpur plant, aim to boost capacity and support new electric models.

Mahindra has raised prices for its Bolero Classic, Neo, and Neo Plus models in May 2026, with increases up to Rs 26,500 depending on the variant. The new prices are effective immediately across all variants.