Wednesday, 23 September 2026

Ultraviolette Raises $85 Million To Accelerate Global EV Expansion

Bengaluru-based Ultraviolette has announced a new $85 million funding round led by deep-tech investors Yali Capital and TDK Ventures. The funding also includes investment from Lip-Bu Tan, Chairman of Walden International and an advisor to Ultraviolette, along with the company's existing investors.

Ultraviolette investment production carandbike 3

The company plans to use the fresh capital to scale production of its existing F77 and X-47 electric motorcycles, as well as upcoming models including the Tesseract and Shockwave.

A key focus of the investment will be Ultraviolette's international expansion. The company is targeting the US market in 2027 and plans to expand further across Latin America and Southeast Asia. 

 

Also Read: Ultraviolette X-47 Skyforce Joins Kolkata Police Fleet

Ultraviolette Tesseract launch January 2027 carandbike 8

The funding will also be used to develop Ultraviolette's next generation of global EV platforms, building on its in-house expertise in battery technology, power electronics, vehicle architecture and software.

 

Also Read: Ultraviolette Tesseract Launch Delayed to January 2027; Significant Tech Upgrades Behind the Hold-Up

Ultraviolette X47 Crossover Web 31

The company currently works with battery architectures ranging from 48V to 400V, allowing it to develop electric vehicles across different segments and performance requirements. Ultraviolette says this vertically integrated approach will help it tailor future platforms around range, performance, thermal management and packaging requirements.



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Mahindra Thar OG: Top 5 Changes Over 2025 Thar 3-Door

The Mahindra Thar has come a long way since the second-generation model arrived in 2020, becoming one of the brand’s most recognisable nameplates. Now, Mahindra has given the 3-door SUV a major update, with the latest version taking on the Thar OG name.

 

Also Read: 2027 Mahindra Thar 3-Door Facelift Launched As 'Thar OG', Priced From Rs 10.32 Lakh

 

 

The latest 3-door Thar gets a revised suspension setup, electric power steering, more powerful versions of its larger engines and a few important changes to its equipment list. Here are the five changes that stand out compared with the previous Thar 3-door.

 

Mahindra Thar OG: New Suspension Setup

Mahindra Thar 3 Door Facelift 4

The Thar OG gets a new rear suspension with a Penta-link setup, similar to the Thar Roxx. It also gets Frequency Dependent Damping, which Mahindra calls ‘DaVinci dampers’. This debuted on the XUV 7XO. Mahindra has also made changes to the underlying structure. The company says its M_Glyde 4G platform has greater structural stiffness than the outgoing Thar.

 

Mahindra Thar OG: More Power

Mahindra Thar OG 5 CHANGES 1

Mahindra has kept the same three engines, but the two larger units have received an output bump. The 2.2-litre mHawk diesel now makes 150 bhp and 330 Nm, compared with 130 bhp and 300 Nm in the old Thar. The 2.0-litre mStallion turbo-petrol has also gained power, producing 159.5 bhp and 330 Nm, up from 150 bhp and 300 Nm. The 1.5-litre diesel continues unchanged, with 117 bhp and 300 Nm.

 

Also Read: Mahindra Thar OG: Variants Explained

 

Mahindra Thar OG: 2.2L RWD Diesel Gets AT

Mahindra Thar OG 5 CHANGES 2

The 2.2-litre diesel with rear-wheel drive can now be paired with an automatic gearbox. This combination was not available on the previous Thar, where the diesel automatic was limited to 4WD versions. The new Thar OG RWD diesel automatic is priced at Rs 16.49 lakh, compared with Rs 18 lakh for the earlier 4WD diesel automatic. That makes the diesel-auto combination considerably more accessible.

 

Mahindra Thar OG: Electric Power Steering

mahindra thar og interior carandbike 1

The Thar OG is also the first version of the current-generation 3-door model to switch to electric power steering. Earlier versions were equipped with hydraulic assistance. Mahindra says this will make it easier to manoeuvre, which should be particularly noticeable when parking or driving around town.

 

Also Read: 2027 Mahindra Thar OG Colour Options Revealed

 

Mahindra Thar OG: Safety Equipment

Mahindra Thar OG 5 CHANGES 3

The safety kit has also been updated, although some of the additions are limited to the higher variants. Six airbags are not standard, so the higher versions of the Thar OG get what Mahindra calls the Head-Pelvis-Thorax-Shoulder (HPTS) airbag system.  All-wheel disc brakes and front parking sensors are also available, but these are again limited to the top variants.



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2026 Mahindra Thar OG vs 2025 Thar: What’s New And What’s Changed?

Mahindra has introduced the new Thar OG, replacing the three-door Thar that was introduced in 2020. While the 2026 Thar retains the familiar boxy silhouette and three-door layout, Mahindra has made substantial changes underneath the skin, along with updates to the exterior, cabin, safety equipment and powertrains. The new Thar OG starts at Rs.10.32 lakh, with deliveries scheduled to begin from October 11, 2026. Here's a look at how the 2026 Thar OG compares with the 2025 Thar.

2026 Thar vs 2025 Thar: Exterior

Also Read: 2027 Mahindra Thar 3-Door Facelift Launched

2025 Thar exterior
2026 Thar

At first glance, the new Thar OG looks evolutionary rather than radically different. The overall three-door silhouette, upright windscreen, round headlamp theme and boxy proportions have been retained. The 2025 Thar brochure describes the design as a contemporary take on the classic Thar shape, with its distinctive body-coloured grille, round headlamps and fender-mounted DRLs. 

The 2026 Thar OG gets a more substantial visual update. It features a new body-coloured grille, LED headlamps with C-shaped DRLs and LED ice-cube fog lamps with cornering functionality. The bumpers have also been redesigned, while the wider track gives the SUV a more planted stance. 

One of the biggest visual changes is the move from 18-inch wheels on the 2025 Thar to 19-inch alloys on the top-spec 2026 Thar OG. The new model also gets new LED tail lamps and two new exterior colours – Artemis Silver and Jeans Blue – taking the colour palette to eight options. 

2026 Thar vs 2025 Thar: Interior

Interior360 00017
Mahindra Thar 2025 17 a393771df2

The cabin has also evolved, although the basic dashboard architecture and rugged character remain familiar.

The 2025 Thar already came with a 26.03 cm touchscreen, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Adventure Statistics Gen II, rear AC vents, height-adjustable driver's seat and roof-mounted speakers. 

The 2026 Thar OG retains the large touchscreen but adds a more premium feel. The top-spec version gets truffle-brown leatherette upholstery, a leatherette-wrapped steering wheel and a soft second-row armrest with integrated cupholders. It also gets additional cabin touches such as a luggage-compartment light and a 15W Type-C rear USB outlet. 

The 2026 model also gets electric power steering, replacing the hydraulic steering system in the 2025 Thar. This should make low-speed manoeuvring considerably easier, particularly in tight spaces and while off-roading.

2026 Thar vs 2025 Thar: Features

Also Read: 2027 Mahindra Thar Facelift Launch Highlights: Price, Images, Specifications, Details

2025 Thar features
2026 Thar seats

This is where the biggest transformation takes place.

The 2025 Thar already offered an extensive off-road equipment package, including a low-range 4x4 transfer case, electronic brake locking differential, hill hold and hill descent control, ESP with rollover mitigation, Adventure Statistics and washable floors on applicable 4WD versions. 

The 2026 Thar OG takes this further with an Electronic Locking Differential (ELD) and dedicated Mud, Sand and Snow terrain modes on applicable 4WD variants. It also gets Terrain Assist on specified RWD powertrains. 

Another important change is the suspension. The 2025 Thar used an independent double-wishbone front suspension and multilink solid rear axle, while the 2026 Thar OG introduces a PENTALINK rear suspension with Watts Link and DAVINCI damping with Frequency Dependent Damping. 

The new model's top-spec ZXT also gets front parking sensors, six airbags including four HPTS airbags, TPMS, rear-view camera and all-disc brakes.

2026 Thar vs 2025 Thar: Engine And Performance

Also Read: 2027 Mahindra Thar OG Colour Options Revealed

2026 Thar Engine

The basic engine family remains familiar, but the higher-output engines have been retuned. The 2025 Thar's 1.5-litre D117 diesel produced 118 bhp and 300 Nm, while the 2.2-litre mHawk diesel developed 130 bhp and 300 Nm. The 2.0-litre mStallion petrol produced 150 bhp, with torque rated at 300 Nm with the manual and 320 Nm with the automatic.

 

For 2026, the D117 remains unchanged at 118 bhp and 300 Nm, while the 2.2-litre mHawk diesel gets a significant bump to 150 bhp and 330 Nm. The 2.0-litre mStallion petrol now produces 159 bhp and 330 Nm.  The 2026 Thar therefore gets a significant increase in output from its larger diesel and petrol engines, while the entry-level diesel carries over unchanged.

2026 Thar OG: A More Comprehensive Upgrade

Mahindra Thar 2025 19 041bfec2c8
Artemis Silver

The 2026 Thar OG may look like a facelift from the outside, but the changes go much deeper. The biggest changes are therefore not the new grille or larger wheels, but the mechanical upgrades, added off-road hardware and substantial improvement in safety equipment. The 2025 Thar established the modern three-door formula; the 2026 Thar OG attempts to retain that character while making the SUV more refined and easier to use every day.



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Tuesday, 22 September 2026

2026 Apache RTR 160 4V Top Variant: What’s New?

The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V has continued to evolve with updates aimed at keeping it competitive in the feature-heavy 160 cc motorcycle segment. For 2026, TVS has focused its attention on the top-spec version, adding technology and convenience features rather than making major changes to the motorcycle's mechanical package.

TVS Apache RTR 164 V 2026 carandbike 5 1

5-inch TFT Display With Google Maps Mirroring

The biggest update on the top-spec Apache RTR 160 4V is the new 5-inch TFT display. The larger full-colour screen gives a more modern interface while making key riding information easier to read. Additionally, the display supports Google Maps mirroring, allowing navigation information to be shown directly on the motorcycle's screen. This is particularly useful for riders who rely on their smartphones for navigation, as they can follow turn-by-turn directions with more ease.

TVS Apache RTR 164 V 2026 carandbike 1

Panic Brake Alert

The Apache RTR 160 4V also gets a Panic Brake Alert system. As the name suggests, it is designed to alert vehicles and riders behind when the motorcycle undergoes hard emergency braking. The feature helps with better rear visibility during sudden braking, giving following traffic an additional indication that the motorcycle is slowing down rapidly. While there is no change in the braking hardware, it adds a layer of active safety to the motorcycle.

 

Also Read: TVS Apache Range Updated With New Variants And Features Ahead Of Festive Season

TVS Apache RTR 164 V 2026 carandbike 2

Type-C Charging Port

Another convenience addition is a type-C charging port. With smartphones playing a bigger role in everyday lives, particularly for navigation, music and communication, having an integrated charging option helps a long way. The type-C interface is more standard now with the current crop of smartphones in the market compared to USB-A type charging port.

TVS Apache RTR 164 V 2026 carandbike 5

Pricing

The top-spec 2026 Apache RTR 160 4V is priced at around ₹1.41 lakh. The higher-spec version carries a premium for its additional technology and convenience features, with the new TFT display and connected functions. For buyers looking at the upper end of the 160 cc segment, these updates give the Apache RTR 160 4V a more contemporary equipment list while retaining the motorcycle's sporty positioning.

 

Also Read: New TVS Ronin: What’s New And What’s Still Missing

TVS Apache RTR 164 V 2026 carandbike 6

Conclusion

The 2026 update can be summed up as improving the rider's interaction with the motorcycle rather than changing its fundamental character. The 5-inch TFT display with Google Maps mirroring add premium feel to the cockpit, while Panic Brake Alert and the Type-C charging port add functionality.



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Monday, 21 September 2026

Stellantis Takes Full Ownership Of Tamil Nadu Plant; Aims To Produce 43,000 Units By 2028

Stellantis India, the parent company of brands like Jeep and Citroen, has announced it will assume 100 per cent ownership of its manufacturing plant in Tiruvallur, Tamil Nadu. The facility was jointly owned by Hindustan Motor Finance Corporation Ltd. (HMFCL), a CK Birla company, and Stellantis Automobiles India Private Limited (SAIPL). The company says the acquisition marks a defining milestone in Stellantis' India journey. In fact, Stellantis is targeting a production ramp-up of over 160 per cent, growing from 16,000 units in 2026 to more than 43,000 units annually by 2028.

 

Stellantis Thiruvallur Plant

 

The company has been producing locally manufactured vehicles at the Thiruvallur facility since 2021. Presently, the plant manufactures the Citroën C3, ë-C3, C3 Aircross, and Basalt, achieving over 95 per cent localisation. In fact, the company states that production growth is expected to more than double the direct workforce from the current 610 employees. Furthermore, it will also create jobs across the supplier and logistics ecosystem. 

 

Also Read: JLR Eyes US-Specific Defender Models In Partnership With Stellantis

Aircross X Exterior Front

 

Broadly, Stellantis says it has invested over €1 billion (almost Rs. 11,000 crore) in India to support its long-term growth ambitions. This includes manufacturing, product development, localisation, and capability building. 

 

Commenting on the milestone, Shailesh Hazela, CEO and Managing Director, Stellantis India, said, "India remains a key pillar of Stellantis' growth strategy. Having invested close to Rs. 11,000 crore in the country to build a strong manufacturing, engineering and export ecosystem, we continue to see significant opportunities ahead. This milestone will enable greater integration and enhance our ability to respond more quickly to customer and market needs."

 

Also Read: Tata Motors And Stellantis Sign MoU To Expand Collaboration On Manufacturing And Engineering

Citroen e c3 X Launched 1

He further added: "As we look ahead, we are committed to driving growth through new product investments, expanded manufacturing capacity, stronger export competitiveness and deeper localisation. India is playing an increasingly important role within Stellantis' global network, and we see significant potential to further scale our operations and contribution to the country's industrial growth."

 

India is a key market for Stellantis and an important hub for manufacturing, engineering and exports. Full ownership of SAIPL will give the company greater operational flexibility and simplify its governance structure. The move is expected to help Stellantis accelerate growth in India, expand exports and increase local investments, while creating long-term value for its customers, employees and partners.



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Škoda CEO Klaus Zellmer To Take Charge At Volvo Cars

Swedish carmaker Volvo Cars has appointed Klaus Zellmer as its new President and Chief Executive Officer. Zellmer will assume the position on October 1, 2027, succeeding Håkan Samuelsson, who led Volvo from 2012 to 2022 and again since April 2025.

 

Zellmer has more than 30 years of experience in the automotive industry. He currently serves as Chairman of the Board of Management and CEO of Škoda Auto. Previously, he was responsible for marketing, sales and after-sales at Volkswagen Passenger Cars, where he was also a member of the Board of Management.

 

Spanning more than two decades, Zellmer also held several senior leadership positions at Porsche, including CEO of Porsche Deutschland and CEO of Porsche North America.

 

Škoda reported record results in 2025 under Zellmer’s leadership, followed by further growth and record electric vehicle deliveries in the first half of 2026, according to Volvo Cars.

 

Håkan Samuelsson has led Volvo Cars across two tenures, first from 2012 to 2022 and again since April 2025. His current tenure has focused on providing stability and developing the company’s long-term strategic roadmap.

 

Zellmer said he looks forward to building on Volvo Cars’ existing strengths, including its focus on safety, design and brand identity, while contributing to the company’s next phase of development.



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Saturday, 19 September 2026

Kia Carens CNG vs Maruti Suzuki Ertiga CNG: Fuel Tank Size, Power Outputs Compared

Kia India recently launched the Carens and the Carens Clavis with a factory-fitted CNG kit. The prices start at Rs 12.12 Lakh for the Carens CNG. And in this price bracket, the MPV stands as the rival against the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga CNG. The Ertiga CNG has a rock-solid fan following as the budget CNG MPV in the market, but with just a premium of Rs 12,000 compared to the top-spec Ertiga, can the Carens wrest away its advantage? Lets find out. 
 

Kia Carens vs Maruti Suzuki Ertiga: Price and Variants

Kia Carens CNG vs Maruti Suzuki Ertiga CNG 8
ModelVariantEx-showroom price
Kia Carens CNGPremium (O)Rs 12.11 lakh
Maruti Suzuki Ertiga CNGVXi CNGRs 10.94 lakh
Maruti Suzuki Ertiga CNGZXi CNGRs 12 lakh

The Kia Carens CNG is available in only one variant, the Premium (O), and costs Rs 12,000 more than the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga ZXI CNG. The Ertiga CNG, however, is available in two variants: ZXI and VXI. The VXI CNG is priced at Rs 10.94 lakh, creating a price difference of Rs 1.18 lakh compared to the Carens CNG. This makes the Ertiga VXI CNG the more affordable option.

 

Also Read: Kia Carens CNG, Carens Clavis CNG Launched In India: Prices Start At Rs. 12.12 Lakh

Kia Carens vs Maruti Suzuki Ertiga: Engine and Performance

 

SpecificationKia Carens CNGMaruti Suzuki Ertiga CNG
Engine1.5-litre, 4-cylinder NA petrol1.5-litre, 4-cylinder NA petrol
Displacement1,497cc1,462cc
Power94.7 bhp86.6bhp 
Torque123Nm121.5Nm
Transmission6-speed manual5-speed manual
DriveFront-wheel driveFront-wheel drive
CNG tank/cylinder60-litre60-litre
Petrol tank45-litre45-litre
Claimed efficiencyNA26.11km/kg

The Carens CNG uses Kia's 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, which produces 94.7 bhp and 123 Nm of peak torque in CNG mode. The Ertiga's 1.5-litre CNG engine produces 86.6bhp and 121.5Nm of peak torque. The Kia also gets one additional forward gear, with a 6-speed manual gearbox compared with the Ertiga's 5-speed manual. 

Kia Carens CNG vs Maruti Suzuki Ertiga CNG 6

Moreover, the Carens produces around 8bhp more power and 1.5Nm more torque than the Ertiga. With more power and the benefit of an additional gear, the Carens has the more powerful powertrain on paper. Maruti Suzuki claims a fuel efficiency of 26.11km/kg for the Ertiga CNG. Kia has not yet announced an ARAI-certified fuel-efficiency figure for the Carens CNG.

 

Kia Carens vs Maruti Suzuki Ertiga: Dimensions 

DimensionKia Carens CNGMaruti Suzuki Ertiga CNG
Length4,540mm4,395mm
Width1,800mm1,735mm
Height1,708mm1,690mm
Wheelbase2,780mm2,740mm
Seating capacity77
Wheel Size 16-inch15-inch

The Kia Carens is considerably larger in terms of dimensions. It measures 145mm longer, 65mm wider and 18mm taller than the Ertiga, with a wheelbase that is over 40mm longer. However, this also affects the luggage and seating space.


The Carens CNG gets a 60-litre CNG tank mounted inside the boot, which reduces the boot capacity from 216 litres in the standard version to 116 litres in the CNG version. The Ertiga, meanwhile, offers 206 litres of boot space as standard, but with the CNG kit, there is little to no usable boot space left.


The Carens CNG sits on larger 16-inch steel wheels, while the Ertiga looks more premium with its 15-inch alloy wheels.

 

Kia Carens vs Maruti Suzuki Ertiga: Features

Kia Carens CNG vs Maruti Suzuki Ertiga CNG 4
The Carens CNG is based on the Premium (O) variant and gets an 8.0-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 12.5-inch digital instrument cluster with a 4.2-inch colour TFT MID, a rear-view camera, keyless entry, electrically adjustable ORVMs with LED turn indicators and semi-leatherette upholstery.

Kia Carens CNG vs Maruti Suzuki Ertiga CNG 1
The Ertiga ZXi CNG features a 7.0-inch SmartPlay infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, alloy wheels, a sliding front armrest with a utility box, premium dual-tone interiors and additional convenience equipment. It also features a height-adjustable driver seat, 60:40 split second-row seats with one-touch recline and slide, 50:50 split third-row seats with reclining functionality, rear AC vents, a second-row centre armrest, dual-tone interiors and a flat-folding third row.

Kia Carens CNG vs Maruti Suzuki Ertiga CNG 5
The Carens gets six airbags as standard, along with ABS, ESC, VSM, BAS, Hill-start Assist and Downhill Brake Control. It also gets disc brakes on all four wheels.


The Ertiga comes with six airbags, ABS with EBD, Brake Assist, seatbelt reminders and an overspeed alert as standard. Its braking setup comprises disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear.


Overall, the Kia Carens is the more premium MPV, with more space and better storage options, making it more practical. Its longer wheelbase also provides more room inside the cabin. Meanwhile, the Ertiga is the more economical option and focuses on keeping ownership costs low. It gets Maruti Suzuki's tried-and-tested 1.5-litre engine, which has been used for several years, potentially making it a more familiar and straightforward ownership proposition.



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Thursday, 17 September 2026

2027 Kawasaki Ninja H2 Breaks Cover

Kawasaki has taken the wraps off the 2027 Ninja H2, which comes after the recent speculations on the homologation filings and teaser images. The latest version retains the familiar silhouette of the supercharged flagship motorcycle but gets several mechanical and hardware updates underneath.

2027 Kawasaki Ninja H2 carandbike 6

The biggest change is the engine, which has been revised to meet Euro 5+ emission standards. Kawasaki has also reworked several internal components, while the updated bike is claimed to offer stronger torque in the low- and mid-range. The Ninja H2 continues with its 998cc supercharged inline-four, but Kawasaki has redesigned the impeller and intake system, along with the pistons, cylinder head and crankshaft.

 

The exhaust system has been changed as well. The previous twin-exhaust setup has been replaced by a single-sided exhaust, similar to the configuration used on the Ninja H2 SX and Z H2.

 

Also Read: 2027 Kawasaki Vulcan S Launched At Rs 8.23 Lakh

2027 Kawasaki Ninja H2 carandbike 4

Next, the motorcycle also gets new braking hardware. The previous Brembo Stylema front calipers have been replaced by Brembo Hypure four-piston calipers for even better braking performance. 

2027 Kawasaki Ninja H2 carandbike 3

Another notable update is the instrument cluster, which now combines an analogue tachometer with a TFT display. The setup appears similar to the unit used on the Ninja H2 SX and provides access to the motorcycle's electronic rider aids, including selectable power modes, traction control and cruise control.

 

Also Read: 2027 Kawasaki Versys 650 Launched in India at Rs 8.63 Lakh

2027 Kawasaki Ninja H2 carandbike 2

The 2027 Kawasaki Ninja H2 has so far been announced for the UK, where it is priced at £28,600, equivalent to around Rs 36.90 lakh. The Ninja H2 was discontinued in India several years ago, and while there is no confirmation whether the 2027 model will make it to India, one can expect it to be launched towards the end of this year.



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Wednesday, 16 September 2026

Volkswagen ID.3 GTI Revealed: 321 bhp Electric Hatch Offers 600 Km Range

Volkswagen has unveiled the fastest and most powerful iteration of its ID.3 electric hatchback, the GTI. Developing a peak 321 bhp and 545 Nm, the ID.3 GTI is the most powerful hatchback to wear the GTI badge and also the first electric car to do so. Additionally, unlike its ICE predecessors, the new electric GTI sends all its power to the rear wheels

 

Powertrain Details

Volkswagen ID 3 GTI 1

The ID.3 GTI features a 79kWh lithium-ion battery pack that sends power to a rear-mounted electric motor. The hot hatch is claimed to offer a maximum range of up to 601km. The electric motor produces 321bhp and 545Nm of peak torque, allowing the electric hatch to hit 100 kph in a claimed 5.6 seconds. Top speed stands at 200kph.

 

On the charging front, the ID.3 GTI supports DC fast charging at up to 183kW and takes around 29 minutes to charge from 10 to 80 per cent.

 

Moreover, it gets a GTI button on the steering wheel that activates the GTI driving profile. This adjusts the electric motor’s power delivery, steering and DCC adaptive sports chassis for a more performance-focused experience. The GTI mode also activates Launch Control and adds a simulated combustion-engine sound inside the cabin.

 

Also Read: Volkswagen Tukan Pickup Truck Unveiled In Brazil

 

ID.3 GTI Exterior Details

Volkswagen ID 3 GTI 5

Based on the ID.3 Neo, the GTI gets a sportier styling package including the iconic red design touches seen on prior internal combustion GTIs. The enclosed grille now features a thin red stripe spanning its width, along with GTI lettering, while the bumper lower down gets a slightly more squared-off look and a mesh pattern lower air intake with red accents.

 

Moving to the profile, the GTI sit on 20-inch Wörthersee alloy wheels while the mirror caps and side sills are finished in gloss black. Unlike the previous ID.3 GTX, the roof, spoiler and boot lid are finished in the body colour.

 

The GTI is available in five exterior colour options: Tornado Red, Moonstone Grey, Scale Silver, Grenadilla Black and Glacier White.

 

Also read: Volkswagen Confirms New Sub-4-Metre SUV For India; Launch In 2027

 

Volkswagen ID.3 GTI Interior and Features

Volkswagen ID 3 GTI 3

Aesthetically, the interior features an all-black finish with red accents and stitching present across various surfaces, including a stripe across the dashboard and a red 12 o’clock marking on the sports steering wheel. The seats feature a Superclark pattern inspired by the tartan-style seats of the original Golf GTI.

Volkswagen ID 3 GTI 4

The dashboard design and layout, meanwhile, have not changed over the standard ID.3, with elements such as the digital instrument screen and 12.9-inch touchscreen retained, though now running GTI-specific graphics. Buyers also get an augmented reality head-up display as part of the GTI package.

 

The ID.3 GTI gets a V2L (vehicle-to-load) function through an optional PowerSocket Adapter. This allows it to power or charge external devices.

 

For automated driving, it gets the Travel Assist system and Park Assist Pro with a memory function. Travel Assist can also respond to traffic lights, automatically bringing the vehicle to a stop when a red signal is detected.

 

Volkswagen says the ID.3 GTI will go on sale in global markets in early 2027.



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New Hyundai Bayon Design Previewed In Sketches Ahead Of India Launch

Hyundai India has released the first sketches of the new Hyundai Bayon, ahead of its debut and launch. The sketches reveal some key styling details of the upcoming SUV, including the fascia and cabin design.


Hyundai Bayon

On the outside, the sketches show only the front half of the car, where it shows a sculpted hood and Hyundai’s H-Edge lighting setup with high-set LED daytime running lamps similar to the new Venue. The main headlamps likely sit below, within angular housings in the bumper. The sketches also preview a rather edgy and chunky bumper design with a prominent skid plate element and notable creases.

 

Hyundai Bayon 1
 

As for the cabin, the upcoming Bayon looks to be following Hyundai contemporary design template with a large display spanning the driver side of the dashbaord and centre console. The display will house the central touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. 

Hyundai Bayon 3

Additionally, the centre console looks to follow a minimalist theme with space for a wireless charger near its base. The steering wheel design looks to be in line with other newer Hyundais with paddle shifters also visible.
 

Also Read: Hyundai Bayon SUV Confirmed For India Launch; Coming This Diwali

 

The Bayon is expected to be offered with a naturally aspirated petrol engine at launch, with manual and automatic transmission options likely to be available. It is also expected to come with a factory-fitted CNG kit, making it the largest Hyundai yet to be available in a CNG guise.

 

The Hyundai Bayon is expected to be positioned above the Venue, which is currently priced between Rs 8 lakh and Rs 15.83 lakh (ex-showroom).



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Tuesday, 15 September 2026

Volvo XC60 and XC90 Long-Range Plug-In Hybrid Revealed

Volvo Cars has unveiled long-range plug-in hybrid powertrains for the Volvo XC60 and the XC90 in Europe and the US. The XC60 has a maximum electric range of up to 200km meanwhile the XC90 can go till 160km. 

Volvo says the new long-range PHEVs use larger, floor-integrated batteries and more powerful electric motors than the existing plug-in hybrid models. The brand says the electric range is now more than 2.5 times higher than that of the current PHEV variants. PHEV powertrain will be offered alongside the mild-hybrid powertrains.


Powertrain Details 
 

For the XC60, it is offered in two trims: the T6 AWD and T8 AWD. The long-range version is powered by a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged engine paired with a 41.2kWh battery pack and a 130kW electric motor. The SUV produces a combined output of 454bhp and 669Nm of peak torque, offering an electric range of up to 200km and a combined range of up to 1,240km. Volvo claims a 0-100km/h time of 4.8 seconds in the most powerful spec. As for charging, the battery can be fully charged in four hours using a 16A charger.


The XC90 is available in a single PHEV trim alongside the mild-hybrid powertrain. It shares the same powertrain as the XC60 but offers 40km less electric range, at up to 160km, and a combined range of up to 1,100km. The power and torque figures remain the same as well.

 

Volvo XC60 Exterior Updates


Volvo XC 60
 

The XC60 gets a redesigned grille, front bumper, bonnet, front wings and new wheels, apart from the PHEV powertrain option. 

 

At the front, it features Thor's Hammer Matrix LED headlights, which have also been redesigned, while the tailgate, rear LED lamps and rear bumper feature revised styling emphasising horizontal lines.

Volvo XC 60 1

Inside, the XC60 gets a redesigned dashboard and door panels, along with wood trim and ventilated Nappa leather upholstery. The SUV also features an 11.2-inch display running Volvo's latest infotainment interface.

 

The updated XC60 also gains additional active safety and driver assistance features. These include automatic emergency steering, automatic emergency braking, cyclist alerts, lane change assist and a 360-degree camera with a 3D view.

 

Also read: Volvo EX90 India Launch On October 12
 

Another addition is Google's Gemini AI assistant, which allows occupants to interact with the vehicle using natural language for functions such as journey planning, finding stops and managing messages.
 

Volvo XC90 Updates

 
Volvo XC 90 1
 

The XC90 continues with its seven-seat layout and retains its focus on safety, comfort and Scandinavian-inspired design. The SUV features premium materials, wood trim and natural-light-focused interior elements.


Additionally, it gets an optional Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system, while Google Gemini has been added to the XC90's technology package.

 

Both the XC60 and XC90 will receive over-the-air software updates. Volvo has opened order books for the new SUVs, including Black Edition variants, in selected markets, with production scheduled to begin later this autumn.



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