Page 63- All Automotive News

KTM’s next-gen 990 SMT has been spotted undergoing road tests in Europe, revealing 990 Adventure-inspired styling, a 947cc LC8c twin, road-focused 17-inch wheels, and a comprehensive electronics suite aimed at serious sport-touring riders.

Hyundai Motor India sold 55,064 vehicles in March 2026, led by Creta, Venue, and Aura. The company saw 6.3% year-on-year growth and is preparing to launch new models, including an electric SUV and next-gen i20.

Kia will launch the next-generation Sonet compact SUV in India by 2027 with a new platform, enhanced features, and improved safety. A strong hybrid powertrain is planned for 2028 or 2029, making it a segment first.

Kia will launch the Syros EV in July, featuring a 42kWh battery and 133bhp motor. This will be Kia's second locally produced electric vehicle for India, expanding its EV lineup to four models.

The 2026 Volkswagen Taigun facelift introduces refreshed styling and features to compete with the Hyundai Creta, which offers more engine options, advanced technology, and a wider price range in the compact SUV segment.

Xiaomi is expanding its electric vehicle lineup with the YU7 SUV, targeting Europe and the US first from 2027. The YU7 Pro offers 681bhp, while the GT variant is expected to reach 989bhp. India launch will follow global rollout.

Mercedes-Benz India discontinued the A-Class, EQA, EQB, and EQE SUV in 2024, shifting focus to premium models. The GLA SUV is now the entry-level ICE option, while the CLA EV will launch soon. FY26 sales reached 19,363 units.

Tata Motors is offering discounts on most of its electric vehicles in April 2024, including the Curvv, Punch, Harrier, Tiago, and Nexon EVs. Benefits vary by model, location, and stock, with the Curvv EV receiving the highest offer.

Kawasaki has updated its Ninja 7 Hybrid and Z7 Hybrid for 2026, introducing electronic changes including a higher speed threshold for hybrid mode and automatic gear shifting in Sport mode. Both models retain their hybrid powertrains.

Kia will launch the second-generation Sonet in 2027 with a new K1 platform, updated features, and improved safety. The compact SUV will retain existing engines and add a hybrid variant after 2028, targeting 85,000 units annually.

Kawasaki is providing a free engine oil change for select Ninja ZX-6R owners in India at authorised service centres until 30 April 2026. The offer covers only the engine oil, with labour and other charges still applicable.

The Skoda Kushaq base variant, priced at Rs 10.69 lakh, offers more features than the Taigun entry trim, including an electric sunroof, alloy wheels, automatic headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror.

Volkswagen has updated the Taigun with new variants and features. The Highline variant adds premium equipment, a 1-litre turbo engine with new 8-speed automatic, and strong safety features, but misses some premium options.

Bajaj adds the Black Gold colour to the Pulsar 150 lineup, offering it across all variants. The bike retains its 149.5cc engine, three variant options, and unchanged mechanical features. Prices start at Rs 1.10 lakh.

Kia will expand its India lineup to 10 models by 2030, including 8 electrified vehicles like the Sorento hybrid and Syros EV, with plans for localised production and a target of 4.1 lakh annual sales.