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The Hero Xtreme 125R is set to get a new top-spec variant, with the motorcycle spotted sporting a TFT instrument console. The upcoming version will also add a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) to the equipment list. Hero MotoCorp is yet to announce its price, but the new variant is expected to sit at the top of the Xtreme 125R range, which currently comprises four variants.
The new TFT cluster will replace the current 4.2-inch colour LCD unit and will be of the same size. Other features already available on the Xtreme 125R, including the ride-by-wire throttle, cruise control and three riding modes: Eco, Road and Power, are expected to continue. At the top end, the motorcycle also gets disc brakes at both ends and dual-channel ABS.
TPMS, on the other hand, is another useful piece of information to the new display, allowing riders to keep an eye on tyre pressures while also making the Xtreme 125R the only model in the segment to sport this feature.
Aside from the aforementioned additions, the Xtreme 125R is expected to continue with its 124.7cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine, which produces 11.4 bhp at 8,250rpm and 10.5 Nm at 6,000rpm. The engine will continue to be mated with a 5-speed gearbox. The motorcycle's dimensions and cycle parts are also expected to remain unchanged.
The Xtreme 125R's new console comes at a time when TFT displays are becoming more common in the 125cc segment. The TVS Raider 125 was the first in the segment to get one, while the Honda CB125 Hornet followed with a similar setup. Bajaj Auto is also expected to bring a TFT display to the next-generation Pulsar 125.
The Xtreme 125R is currently offered in four variants: IBS (Rs 91,500), ABS and a Single Seat version (Rs 95,700), and the existing top-spec Dual Channel ABS trim (Rs 1.08 lakh). Expect the new TFT trim to command a premium over the dual-channel ABS variant.
All prices ex-showroom
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Mahindra's Scorpio-N-based pickup is almost here. The production version of the 2023 Global Pik Up concept will make its debut tomorrow, August 14, as part of the company's Independence Day event. Mahindra has already shown a few details through teasers, and the pickup looks set to carry over quite a bit from the Scorpio N and its concept model.
Although not clear, the pickup appears to take inspiration from the Scorpio-N, especially at the front. The bonnet and much of the front-end design are expected to be shared with the SUV, although the headlights get a rectangular layout with the DRLs positioned in the upper section. Roof rails are also visible from the teaser shared earlier.
The longer body is more noticeable from the side, with the extended cargo bed giving the pickup a substantial look. The rear gets its own design, with vertical LED tail-lamps featuring C-shaped lighting elements while a large Mahindra lettering sits between the tail-lamps.
From the teaser images, a series of elements are noticeable, while the cabin also appears to differ from the Scorpio-N. The biggest change is the portrait-oriented touchscreen infotainment system, which is flanked by vertical AC vents. The AC controls are positioned below the screen, and underneath which is expected to be a wireless charging pad.
The centre console gets a leather-wrapped gear lever, an electronic parking brake and a drivetrain selector. A chunkier three-spoke steering wheel with multiple controls is also visible, while the digital driver's display could use the same interface as the current Scorpio N. The pickup also gets rotary controls for the dual-zone climate control system.
Mahindra has not yet revealed the mechanical specifications, but the pickup is expected to share its powertrain options with the Scorpio-N. That means the engine lineup could include the 2.0-litre turbo-petrol and 2.2-litre diesel engines. Both are currently available in the Scorpio N with 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic gearboxes. Exact specifications and output figures for the pickup will be confirmed at the unveiling.
Mahindra Scorpio-N Pickup: 4WD Likely To Be Offered
A four-wheel-drive option is also expected, alongside a 2WD version. The Scorpio N currently offers its 4WD system with the 2.2-litre diesel engine, with both manual and automatic transmission options.
Mahindra Scorpio-N Pickup: Expected Name
Mahindra has already trademarked the Scorpio-X name in India. The trademark was filed in 2024 but has not been used on a production model so far. With the upcoming pickup sharing its platform and several design elements with the Scorpio-N, Scorpio-X could be a suitable name for the new model.
Mahindra Scorpio-N Pickup: Rivals
The new Mahindra pickup will get into the ring with the Toyota Hilux and Isuzu V-Cross. The Hilux is currently priced between Rs 31.99 lakh and Rs 36.89 lakh, while the V-Cross costs between Rs 25.50 lakh and Rs 30.28 lakh, both ex-showroom.
Mahindra is expected to reveal the remaining details, including the pickup's full specifications, when it takes the wraps off the model tomorrow, August 14. However, we expect prices for it to be announced at a later stage.
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The Hero Xtreme 125R is set to get a new instrument console, with the motorycle spotted with a TFT display. The updated version is expected to sit at the top of the Xtreme 125R range, while reports also suggest that TPMS could be added to the equipment list.
The TFT will replace the current 4.2-inch colour LCD. Other features already available on the Xtreme 125R, including the ride-by-wire throttle, cruise control and three riding modes: Eco, Road and Power, are expected to continue. The motorcycle also gets disc brakes at both ends and dual-channel ABS.
Aside from the aforementioned additions, the Xtreme 125R is expected to continue with its 124.7cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine, which produces 11.4 bhp at 8,250rpm and 10.5 Nm at 6,000rpm. The engine will continue to be mated with a 5-speed gearbox. The motorcycle's dimensions and cycle parts are also expected to remain unchanged.
If TPMS does make it to the production bike, it would add another useful piece of information to the new display, allowing riders to keep an eye on tyre pressures while also making the Xtreme 125R the only model in the segment to sport this feature.
The Xtreme 125R's new console comes at a time when TFT displays are becoming more common in the 125cc segment. The TVS Raider 125 was the first in the segment to get one, while the Honda CB125 Hornet followed with a similar setup. Bajaj Auto is also expected to bring a TFT display to the next-generation Pulsar 125.
Mahindra has released another teaser, this time for the upcoming Scorpio-N Pick-Up. The model will be based on the Scorpio-N and will compete with the Isuzu V-Cross and Toyota Hilux. With the Hilux also recently receiving a new face, it will be interesting to see what the Scorpio-N Pick-Up brings to the segment.
What to Expect
The teaser reveals several changes to the exterior. The headlight design features a rectangular layout, with the DRLs positioned in the upper section of the housing. It also gets roof rails as standard. The front-end design resembles the Scorpio-N while retaining its overall design language.
The bonnet and much of the front-end styling are expected to be shared with the Scorpio-N. From the side, the pick-up looks longer due to the extended cargo bed, giving it a muscular stance. Despite being based on the Scorpio-N, it does not appear to be a chopped-off version of the SUV, with well balanced overall proportions.
At the rear, the Scorpio-N Pick-Up gets a different tail-light design compared to the SUV. The vertical LED tail-lights feature C-shaped lighting elements, while large Mahindra lettering is positioned between them. The design bears some resemblance to the Toyota Hilux.
Interior Gets Major Changes
The biggest departure from the Scorpio-N is expected inside the cabin. Unlike other Mahindra SUVs, the Pick-Up gets a new infotainment setup with a vertically oriented touchscreen. Two vertical AC vents flank the screen, while the air-conditioning controls are positioned below it.
The gear lever is leather-wrapped and sits alongside an electronic parking brake button and drivetrain selector. The steering wheel gets a three-spoke design with multiple controls, adding to the feature-rich cabin.
Overall, the Scorpio-N Pick-Up looks promising and is expected to be positioned as a more premium pick-up rather than a conventional lifestyle pick-up. The model will be unveiled on 14 August, with pricing details expected to be announced closer to its launch.
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Bugatti has taken the engineering package from its track-focused Bolide and given it a very different interpretation. Called the Destrier, the one-off is the third car created under Bugatti's Solitaire programme and has been designed around its proportions with a different approach to aerodynamics.
At just one metre tall, the Destrier is lower than any other Bugatti. It sits on 20-inch front and 21-inch rear wheels, which are considerably larger than the 18-inch wheels used on the Bolide. The car is based on the Bolide's carbon-fibre monocoque, but its bodywork has been extensively redesigned.
A Different Take On The Bolide
The most obvious difference between the two cars is the approach to aerodynamics. Where the Bolide is covered in wings, vents and other elements designed to generate downforce, the Destrier has a much cleaner body. The design retains Bugatti's familiar C-line, although it has been reworked for the Destrier. The brightwork curve breaks ahead of the front wheel before continuing towards the wider horseshoe grille.
The front end is relatively restrained, with the grille taking up much of the visual attention. Towards the rear, an integrated wing forms part of the bodywork, while the overall shape is dominated by the low roof and wide rear haunches.
The cabin sits deep between the front wheels, and the body narrows sharply behind the doors before widening over the rear wheels. Bugatti says the proportions are intended to give the car the stance of a horse ready to move, which also ties into the Destrier name.
Links To Bugatti's Past
Although the Destrier is primarily a design-led project, there is a historical connection behind its engineering. Bugatti points to the Type 57 chassis, which was used as the basis for both the Type 57G and Type 57C "Tank" race cars and the Type 57SC Atlantic.
The race cars went on to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1937 and 1939, while the Atlantic became one of the marque's most recognised designs.
A laser-engraved plate above the Destrier's windscreen depicts the Type 57G Tank and Type 57SC Atlantic, which showcases the connection between the cars.
The Destrier is finished in a bespoke shade called Sapphire Celeste. The multi-layered blue paint has a sparkling finish and is paired with polished aluminium detailing. The exposed carbon-fibre sections on the front splitter and rear diffuser have also been tinted to match the exterior.
The hammered finish used on components in the engine bay is intended to reference the hand-beaten armour associated with medieval knights.
Inside, the Destrier takes a more luxurious approach than the Bolide's stripped-back racing cabin. The interior combines Ambre Voyageur leather and nubuck with a 3D-knitted textile featuring copper yarn.
The same hammered finish appears on several cabin details, including the door opener, air vents, steering wheel hub and entry plate. There's also a small French flag incorporated into the interior.
The Bolide's 1,578 bhp W16
Despite the different focus, the Destrier retains the Bolide's complete powertrain. That means Bugatti's 8.0-litre, quad-turbocharged W16 engine develops 1,578 bhp and 1850 Nm. For reference, the track-only Bolide can go from 0-100 in 2.17 seconds. Moreover, the oil filler cap carries the Destrier emblem along with a "1/1" marking.
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Ducati is gearing up to launch the 2026 Monster in India on August 10. The updated naked motorcycle is one of the Italian brand's key launches as it looks to strengthen its position in the premium street motorcycle segment. The latest Monster retains the aggressive streetfighter character of its predecessors but gets a sharper, more athletic design. The signature oval LED headlamp, exposed mechanical elements, and compact tail section give it a distinctive road presence while maintaining the muscular stance associated with the Monster name.
The biggest change comes underneath, where the 937cc L-twin engine has been replaced with the new 890cc V-twin unit. The new motor produces 109.4bhp at 9,000 rpm and 91Nm at 7,250 rpm. While the peak power and torque figures are marginally lower than the previous engine's 110bhp and 93.5 Nm figures, Ducati claims the new powertrain offers a refined riding experience.
In terms of the chassis, the motorcycle continues to retain the aluminium monocoque frame. For suspension duties, the motorcycle is equipped with 43 mm Showa USD fork at the front and a Showa rear monoshock with preload adjustment. Meanwhile, the Brembo braking system has been optimised which features 320mm twin discs up front and a 245mm single disc at the rear. The motorcycle rides on Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres with lightweight alloy wheels.
For the electronics package, the 2026 Monster comes equipped with a comprehensive electronics package, including multiple riding modes, traction control, a quickshifter and other rider assistance systems.
The new Monster is expected to be priced around Rs 14 lakh (ex-showroom) in India, while the more premium Monster Plus variant could command a premium of approximately Rs 20,000-30,000 over the standard model. Once launched, it will continue to compete in the premium naked motorcycle space against rivals such as the Triumph Street Triple and Kawasaki Z900.
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The Supreme Court of India has ordered the extension of mandatory third-party insurance for new cars and two-wheelers. The decision comes after the court observed that numerous vehicles on Indian roads continue to operate without valid insurance. Under the new directive, third-party insurance for newly registered cars will now be valid for four years, while new two-wheelers will require six years of coverage.
"While the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) and the General Insurance Council (GIC) have recommended that this period not be enhanced, we are of the view that it is in the interest of road safety that the period be enhanced by one year. Therefore, it is directed that henceforth, third-party insurance for four years for new cars and six years for new two-wheelers be required to be purchased. IRDAI shall immediately issue the necessary directions," a Bench comprising Justices Sanjay Karol and Prashant Kumar Mishra said.
No Insurance, No Fuel
In addition to extending the insurance period, the Supreme Court has directed the installation of ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) cameras outside fuel stations to monitor vehicle number plates.
The system will identify vehicles without valid insurance, and, through integration with the VAHAN portal, e-challans will be issued automatically. Alongside this, the court has directed that vehicles without valid insurance should not be supplied with fuel.
"This is to monitor the real-time insurance status of vehicles and impose challans for violations, ensuring compliance with mandatory insurance on the ground," the court said.
With these measures, the Supreme Court aims to strengthen road safety standards in India. Vehicle insurance plays a major role in improving road safety, as it protects not only vehicle owners but also other road users.
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JSW MG Motor India will be launching a new electric SUV under the Hector brand soon. The SUV is globally sold as the Wuling Starlight 560, and in some markets as the Eksion, but in India it will be called the MG Hector Hawk. And it will be launched on August 26. Now, globally the SUV is offered in both powertrain choices – Electric Vehicle (EV) as well as plug-in hybrid. However, India will only get the EV version as of now; the PHEV is likely to follow later.
Now, the upcoming Hector Hawk has been spotted in India on multiple occasions. Now, globally, the SUV is offered as a 3-row 7-seater SUV; India will surely get it. However, as we had earlier reported, JSW MG Motor India has trademarked the Hector Hawk Plus name. This means India might also get a 5-seater version, which will be called Hector Hawk, while the 7-seater version will be called Hector Hawk Plus.
The global model packs a 69.2 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate battery that is paired with a single electric motor attached to the front axle. The motor makes 201 bhp and 310 Nm of peak torque, and offers a maximum range of up to 530 km on a single charge. The PHEV version, on the other hand, gets a 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with a 20.5 kWh battery and a front-mounted electric motor. In global markets, this set-up develops a peak of 194 bhp and 230 Nm, offering an EV-only range of 100 km. Cumulative range is claimed to be over 1,000 km.
Visually, MG will restyle the SUV for the Indian market, so we will have to wait and see the level of cosmetic changes. However, the global SUV has a boxy design with an imposing face, beefy cladding and wheel arches, and roof rails. The SUV also gets sleek LED DRLs and headlights, matching taillights, and a spoiler.
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KTM India has increased the prices of its 390 Adventure range, with both the Adventure S and Adventure R receiving a price hike of Rs 8,000. Following the revision, the 390 Adventure S is priced at Rs 4.05 lakh, while the 390 Adventure R now retails at Rs 3.86 lakh (both prices, ex-showroom). Apart from the updated pricing, there are no changes to either motorcycle.
The 390 Adventure S continues to be the more road-focused offering in the lineup. It comes equipped with 21-inch front and 17-inch rear tubeless spoke wheels, along with revised suspension settings that help keep the seat height at a relatively accessible 830 mm.
The Adventure R, meanwhile, is designed with a greater focus on off-road riding. It features 230 mm of suspension travel at both ends, firmer suspension tuning and a significantly taller 880 mm seat height to maximise off-road capability.
Powering both motorcycles is KTM's 398.6cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that produces 45.3 bhp and 39 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with a six-speed gearbox featuring a slipper clutch and bi-directional quickshifter.
Both models continue to offer an extensive electronics package, including cruise control, switchable cornering traction control, cornering ABS, Off-road ABS and three riding modes—Street, Rain and Off-road. These functions are accessed via a 5-inch TFT instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity.
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India’s leading car brand Maruti Suzuki has created a new sales record in the month of July by dispatching more than 2 lakh vehicles in the domestic market. This is the first time ever that a brand has sold more than 2 lakh vehicles in the Indian market in a single month. In all the company dispatched 2,00,123 units in the previous month which also included sales of 3,920 commercial vehicles. Overall Maruti Suzuki dispatched 2,41,421 vehicles in July which also included exports of 30,056 units. This was 33% more than the total number vehicle sold by the brand in July 2025.
Dzire was once again the highest selling car in the country in July.
Talking about retail numbers the brand sold a total of 1,78,000 vehicles which was the highest ever for the month of July. The company also witnessed its highest ever CNG sales (83,000 units) and highest ever sales for its MPV, the Ertiga (21,606) in the previous month. Overall top 4 cars sold in the market in July were from Maruti Suzuki and apart from Ertiga these included the Dzire (23,791 units), Swift (21,538 units) and Fronx (19,473 units). Maruti Suzuki also created a new production record in July by making 2,48,845 vehicles last month.
Talking to the media, Partho Banerjee, Senior Executive Officer, Marketing & Sales, Maruti Suzuki revealed that currently the brand is sitting on around 1.60 lakh pending bookings. He also shared that the company’s latest launch in the market, the Brezza facelift is getting close to 2,000 bookings every day and all 3 powertrains (Turbo, NA Petrol and CNG) are getting an almost equal share in demand. According to the brand, its first ever electric vehicle e Vitara is now getting around 4,000 bookings each month.
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Aston Martin has become the latest British luxury carmaker to revise its prices in India following the implementation of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Alongside the updated prices, the brand has refreshed its lineup by introducing the new Vantage S, DB12 S, and DBX S, and has also announced the prices of their open-top counterparts: the Vantage S Roadster, DB12 S Volante, and Vanquish Volante.
Models
Old Price
New Price
Difference
Vantage S Coupe
Rs 4.99 crore
Rs 3.15 crore
-Rs 1.84 crore
Vantage S Roadster
Rs 5.26 crore
Rs 3.35 crore
-Rs 1.91 crore
DB12 S Coupe
Rs 6.62 crore
Rs 4.10 crore
-Rs 2.52 crore
DB12 S Volante
Rs 7 crore
Rs 4.35 crore
-Rs 2.65 crore
DBX S
Rs 6.80 crore
Rs 4.15 crore
-Rs 2.65 crore
Vanquish Coupe
Rs 10.11 crore
Rs 6.40 crore
-Rs 3.71 crore
Vanquish Volante
Rs 10.92 crore
Rs 6.90 crore
-Rs 4.02 crore
All prices ex-showroom
The revised price brings sizeable reductions across Aston Martin's India portfolio. The entry point into the brand is now considerably lower, with the Vantage S Coupe becoming Rs 1.84 crore more affordable than before. At the other end of the spectrum, the flagship Vanquish Volante sees the biggest price correction, with its sticker price dropping by over Rs 4 crore.
Aston Martin Vantage S
The Vantage S receives a series of styling tweaks to distinguish it from the standard model. Up front, it gets a redesigned bonnet with a new blade element, while the rear features a full-width spoiler that generates 111kg of additional downforce. New 21-inch alloy wheels and subtle 'S' badging complete the exterior updates.
Under the hood is a reworked 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 producing 680 bhp and 800 Nm. Aston Martin claims a 0-100kmph time of 3.3 seconds, making it a tenth quicker than the standard Vantage, while top speed remains unchanged at 303 kmph.
Inside, the cabin gets an optional sportier treatment with Alcantara and leather upholstery, satin carbon fibre trim and an anodised drive mode selector finished in either red or silver.
Aston Martin DB12 S
The DB12 S follows a similar recipe, with visual updates including a redesigned front splitter, bonnet louvres, gloss-black detailing, new alloy wheels and red 'S' badges on the front fenders. At the rear, the grand tourer gains a quad-exhaust setup and a subtle ducktail spoiler.
Power comes from a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, although output has been increased to 700 bhp, up by 20 bhp. Torque remains unchanged at 800 Nm, paired with the same 8-speed automatic transmission. The extra power trims the 0-100kmph sprint to 3.4 seconds, while top speed stays at 325kmph.
The cabin remains largely familiar but adds red accents across the drive mode selector, seatbelts and contrast stitching to set it apart from the standard DB12.
Aston Martin DBX S
The performance SUV has also received the 'S' treatment. Exterior revisions include a more aggressive front bumper, new wheel designs, a redesigned rear bumper and diffuser, and vertically stacked twin exhaust outlets.
Mechanically, the DBX S continues with the Mercedes-AMG-derived 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8, now producing 717 bhp. Peak torque has also been recalibrated to remain available across a broader rev range, although the SUV's 0-100kmph time remains unchanged at 3.3 seconds. The DBX S also carries over the active suspension and carbon-ceramic braking system from the DBX 707.
Like before, Aston Martin continues to offer an extensive range of personalisation options, including bespoke paint finishes, upholstery choices, wheel designs and trim packages.
Aston Martin Vanquish Volante
Rounding off the updates is the Vanquish Volante, Aston Martin's open-top flagship grand tourer. Compared to the coupe, the convertible weighs 95kg more due to the additional structural reinforcement required after replacing the fixed roof with a fabric soft-top. The K-fold roof can be lowered in 14 seconds and raised in 16 seconds and can even be operated while driving at speeds of up to 50 kmph.
Power comes from the same 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12 found in the coupe, producing 823 bhp and 1,000 Nm. The engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the rear wheels. It goes from 0-100kmph in 3.4 seconds before going on to a claimed top speed of 345 kmph.
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