Page 54- All Automotive News

Mercedes-Benz faces investor concerns over its luxury-focused strategy as China sales drop and BMW surpasses it in India Q1 2026 sales. The company plans new models and technology partnerships to regain competitiveness.

Mercedes-Benz has revealed the C-Class EV’s interior, featuring a 39.1-inch Hyperscreen, advanced ambient lighting, new HVAC system, and enhanced sound insulation. The official debut is scheduled for April 20.

Audi and SAIC Motor will launch a new electric limousine in China in 2027, following the E5 Sportback and E7X SUV. The joint venture aims to regain market share after recent sales declines due to a new EV tax.

The KTM RC 450, launched in China with a 449cc twin-cylinder engine and 56bhp, is unlikely to enter India or Europe. KTM plans a new twin-cylinder RC for India based on a different platform.

Royal Enfield expands its 1:3 scale Classic 500 lineup with two new colours, bringing the total to nine. Each handcrafted model uses 964 parts, weighs 8.5kg, and bookings are open until April 19, 2026.

Zelio E-Mobility strengthens its leadership by appointing Divyanshu Agarwal as CEO after a successful IPO, signaling a new growth phase in India’s EV market.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor expands its pre-owned car business with the launch of UTrust in Bengaluru, introducing a multi-brand certified used car outlet focused on quality, trust, and customer convenience.

Citroen has increased prices for the Basalt X by up to Rs 40,000 across most variants, with the range now priced between Rs 8.55 lakh and Rs 13.95 lakh ex-showroom. The update is effective immediately.

With Delhi proposing a complete ban on new petrol two-wheelers by 2028, Kinetic Group Vice Chairman Ajinkya Firodia is praising the move.

The 2026 Volkswagen Taigun and Renault Duster compete in the compact SUV segment, with the Duster offering larger dimensions, more features, advanced safety tech, and a more powerful turbo engine, all at a lower price than the Taigun.

Tata’s massive Rs 91,000 crore semiconductor SEZ in Gujarat marks a major leap for India’s chip manufacturing ambitions, promising large-scale job creation and industrial growth.

Renault is gearing up to introduce the Bridger SUV with both a 1.2L turbo petrol engine and an all-electric version, targeting Indian buyers and global markets with a versatile powertrain lineup.

Toyota's compact Yaris Cross gets a sharper 2026 facelift inspired by the RAV4, with a body-colored honeycomb grille, redesigned LEDs, new colors like Precious Bronze, and a bold GR Sport variant with 18-inch alloys.

Renault is shifting to an India-focused strategy with full local control, new vehicle platforms, and a broader powertrain mix. The company will use its Chennai facility as a global export hub to boost competitiveness.

Volkswagen has unveiled the facelifted Taigun Highline Plus, offering updated styling, enhanced features, and advanced safety. The variant includes a 1-litre turbo-petrol engine, sunroof, and digital instrument cluster.