Continental Launches CrossContact A/T2 Tyres In The Indian Market

When we are praising a car's capabilities, we often fail to recognise the critical role played by the tyres. Be it overcoming technical challenges out there in the wild or the comfort that you seek on a long drive, tyres are at the base of it all, scraping the road below to get you the much-needed traction and rolling tirelessly for you, munching miles relentlessly. The role of the tyre in a car’s performance is one of the most underrated things, as a matter of fact.

On a recent invitation from Continental Tyres, we headed out on an adventure trail hidden between a reserve forest on one side and the Goa-Karnataka state border on the other. Two hours of driving from the Dabolim airport, passing through a narrow road meandering through forest area and connecting remote villages in between, took us to the perfect setting for testing the new Continental CrossContact A/T² tyres.

 

We were welcomed by the thick foliage of wild vegetation, old trees with huge canopies and tyre tracks carved on soft mud, disappearing as you wade into a river stream or climb over a rocky patch. Ideal test track for testing a rugged off-road tyre with just mud, slush, rocks and water around and no sight of cement or tar for kilometres.

 

CrossContact Tyres were first launched by Continental in India in late 2023. It was subsequently made available in varying sizes to match the popular OEM fitment requirements. CrossContact AX6 is aimed at providing the best grip on off-road trails, offering comfort and low noise on tarmac at the same time. The latest generation CrossContact A/T² tyre is equipped with Traction Plus technology designed to tackle extreme off-roading. The grooves are wider and 14% deeper than the AX6, and the unique block geometry resists lodging of small stones and mud that usually cause traction loss on trails.

 

During our drive through the specially curated off-road trail, tyres stood on the ground well, even when the big SUVs leaned at 45 degrees on a side, putting all its weight on rubber. Navigating through narrow forest trails meant tackling small stones, pebbles, and loose soil, none of which could unsettle the vehicle's grip on the ground.

 

Bold, large block pattern looks promising and functionally superior with deep grooves acting as the gripping tooth for the tyre. The special treads on the shoulder give more volume to the tyre and make it look visually broader than it originally is. 

On extremely steep climbs, our SUV kept crawling forward without the slightest slip or skid. Strong grip ensured easy movement on challenging inclines laden with loose gravel and mud. 

This was followed by driving into a river with a muddy bed underneath, needing sure footing over a slippery surface. Traction Plus technology played an important role here by providing constant grip during the entire water wading experience and preventing a lateral slide while leaving the water and climbing up over the slushy riverbank.

CrossContact A/T² tyres performed as promised, giving both confidence and assurance in abundance while dealing with the difficult terrain.

 

Not every tyre can deliver everything that a vehicle in motion usually demands. The most important of all in an off roading set up is always providing a good grip on the ground, irrespective of what lies beneath the rubber. And on that ground, CrossContact A/T² is surely a strong offering.

 

We did not get an opportunity to test the tyres on a regular road, knowing Continental’s strong reputation for making tyres with the least road noise and offering utmost comfort, this could be the one SUV tyre you need for all your requirements.

Written by: Aashish Bhardwaj 

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

Tata Motors has announced a continuation of its long standing partnership with Stellantis in India and other global markets. The two brands have just completed 20-years of partnering via their 50:50 joint venture, Fiat India Automobiles Private Limited (FIAPL). To mark the occasion, both companies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore further opportunities for collaboration across manufacturing, engineering and supply chain in India and other global markets.
 

 

Tata Motors said in a statement that the partnership has been able to successfully leverage Stellantis’ global expertise and its vehicles’ local capabilities. It added that robust strength across manufacturing, powertrain, and supply‑chain excellence will help lay a strong foundation for expanding future collaboration. 4 Jeep and 3 Tata Motors cars are currently produced at the JV Plant and more than 1.37 Million vehicles produced since the beginning of the partnership.

 

Also Read: Tata Motors Inaugurates New Tamil Nadu Plant; Range Rover Evoque First Vehicle To Roll Out

 

Grégoire Olivier, Chief Operating Officer of Stellantis Asia Pacific, said: “FIAPL stands as a testament to what two strong organizations can achieve together. As we commemorate this milestone, we remain focused on evolving the partnership to support future-ready manufacturing, innovation, and sustainable growth in the region.”
 

Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director & CEO, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, added: “Our partnership with Stellantis through FIAPL reflects the strength of a long-standing collaboration built on trust, shared values and a common vision. We look forward to deepening this relationship with Stellantis in the years ahead.”

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Ferrari’s First EV Named Luce; Retro-Style Interior Revealed

Ferrari has provided new details on its upcoming first-ever EV, including its name - Luce or ‘Light’ in Italian. We also get our first look at the EV’s interior, following a retro-inspired design replete with physical toggle switches on the centre console, a retro-styled steering and a digital instrument cluster that looks close to analogue.

 

Also read: Ferrari F76 Revealed: Latest Italian Hypercar Exists Only In The Digital Realm
 

Ferrari says that the Luce will be its first car to feature the instrument binacle mounted on the steering column, letting it move with the steering to maintain an optimum viewing angle. While the three dial cutouts in the binacle, while looking inspired by Ferrari’s retro dials from the past, are all digital units. They utilise a unique layered OLED display design featuring two overlapping displays to offer a three-dimensional display. Ferrari says the three dials are part of one singular display rather than three individual screens.

 

Also read: Ferrari SC40 One-Off Supercar Unveiled As Tribute To Iconic F40
 

The steering also looks to take a retro-inspired design direction, looking akin to units found in the likes of the Ferrari F40 and F50. The centre features the use of leather, while the aluminium frame is visible in the exposed spokes. As with other new Ferraris, all driver-related controls are featured on the steering wheel itself. Additionally, in line with the recent Amalfi and Testarossa, the buttons are physical and not capacitive touch.
 

Also read: First Ferrari ‘Elettrica’ EV To Feature Quad-Motor AWD With Over 1,000 BHP, 500KM+ Range
 

The use of aluminium is also visible on the dashboard with a thick slab running its width. It houses the retro-styled circular air-con vents and the mounting for the free-standing centre display. The centre console display is mounted on a ball joint and capable of being adjusted towards the driver or passenger. The screen features the use of Corning Fusion5 Glass with a mechanical clock also integrated into the top corner of the unit. A row of physical buttons sits below the display, with Ferrari also integrating a handrest into the floating unit for easier operation.
 

 

Also read: New Ferrari 849 Revives Iconic Testarossa Nameplate; Brings Hybrid V8 Power

 

As for the clock, Ferrari says that it features a unique movement with three individual motors powering each of the clock’s three arms. The unit features four modes – clock, chronograph, compass, and launch control.
 

Another highlight is the floor console between the seats that features a shift-by-wire selector made entirely out of Corning Fusion5 Glass. A key dock sits alongside the shifter, with the vehicle key itself also made from the same glass. Ferrari says that the Luce’s key features the first application of colour-changing E-Ink in its range, with the yellow Ferrari badge turning black when the key is docked in its housing.

 

Also read: 631 bhp Ferrari Amalfi Revealed As The Successor To The Roma
 

 

Previously, Ferrari has already revealed details on the powertrain of the new EV, confirming a quad motor set-up making in excess of 1000 bhp paired with a 122 kWh battery. The EV is also set to offer a range of over 500 km on a full charge.

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New Cars Coming In February: New SUVs, MPV EV Lined Up For Launch

The year 2026 started with a bang for the Indian auto Industry as manufacturers launched and unveiled cars across different segments, powertrains and body styles in January. February too promises be no different as many new products are slated to hit the Indian roads in the next fortnight. Here’s the list and this includes everything from SUVs to MPVs and yes electric vehicles.

 

MG Majestor

JSW MG Motor India is set to launch the Majestor SUV in the market on February 12. It is in a sense a replacement for the Gloster but will have a larger footprint. The SUV is likely to come with a more sporty design language while the cabin could see some similarities with the Gloster. It is likely to run on the same 2.0-litre diesel engine that powers the Gloster which makes 216 bhp and is mated to an 8-speed auto gearbox. The SUV will also come with all-wheel drive capability.

 

Also Read: Tata Punch EV Facelift Revealed Ahead Of Launch

 

Nissan Gravite

Nissan will re-enter the Indian MPV space after more than a decade with the Gravite. The MPV is based on the Renault Triber but based on the teasers it is likely to come with a more aggressive design language. The cabin is likely to share features with the Triber and the engine too will be the same 1.0 3-cylinder unit that comes with manual and AMT options. Nissan could price the Gravite more aggressively when compared to the Triber to attract more consumers.

 

Tata Punch EV Facelift

Two years after the baby SUV was first launched in the market, Tata Motors will launch a facelift version of the Punch EV on February 20. The first look of the electric car has already been revealed which points towards resigned DRLs, bumpers and air vents. A new, unnamed colour has also been revealed which could give the Punch EV a fresher look. The cabin is likely to get more features than earlier and the SUV could get a slightly bigger battery pack than before.

 

Also Read: Volkswagen Tayron R-Line Review: Sensible Flagship For India

 

BMW X3 30 M Sport Pro

After launching the new X3 in India in 2025, in both Petrol and Diesel versions, BMW is ready to launch a more powerful Petrol version of the SUV on February 16th. The X3 30 M Sport Pro runs on the same 2.0 twin-turbo Petrol engine but at 258 bhp & 400 Nm it gets significantly more power and torque. There are some exterior and interior changes too which are exclusive to this variant including blacked out grille, smoked headlamps and M styled seat belts.

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Hero Vida Ubex Electric Bike Design Patented In India

Hero MotoCorp’s electric vehicle brand, Vida is getting ready to enter the electric motorcycle segment. The company has filed design patents for what appears to be a production-spec version of the Vida Ubex, which was showcased as a concept at the EICMA 2025. From the patent images, the Vida Ubex appears to be a street-focussed urban electric motorcycle with an aggressive naked bike stance.

 

Also Read: Hero Teases Vida Ubex Concept At EICMA 2025

 

The design patent reveals the sporty naked bike silhouette of the Ubex, along with some distinctive styling elements. The bike gets a single projector headlamp surrounded by a LED daytime running light and turn indicators. The headlight housing shape and design looks contemporary and modern, as does the sculpted “tank” section, split seat. The handlebar is flat and wide, hinting at an upright riding stance, while the patent shows the front suspension to be conventional telescopic fork set-up and not the USD showcased in the concept.

 

 

The Ubex retains alloy wheels at both ends with front and rear disc brake set-up and a large battery pack is seen mounted low on the frame, hinting at what could possibly be a high-range electric motorcycle. The motor is expected to be mid-mounted and placed right behind the battery, while the trellis swingarm appears to have been retained from the concept. Power is expected to be sent to the rear wheel via a chain drive. A large display is visible, which is expected to be TFT. 

 

So far, only the design patents are available and no other details on specifications and range are available. The filing of the design patent is however an indication that the Vida Ubex is almost ready though there’s no confirmed launch timeline as yet. 

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Nissan Gravite Interior Spotted Ahead Of February 17 Debut

Nissan India has given us a sneak peek at the interior of the Gravite MPV ahead of its debut, slated for February 17. Based on the Renault-Nissan CMF-A platform, the Gravite will share its underpinnings with the Renault Triber. However, the latest images suggest that the cabin layout is closer to the Triber’s pre-facelift version, with a familiar dashboard and control placement carried over for the Nissan derivative.

 

Also Read: Nissan Gravite MPV India Debut On February 17

From the images, the Gravite appears to share several interior elements with its cousin, the pre-facelift Renault Triber. The dashboard layout looks familiar, with a centrally placed touchscreen and air con vents sitting above. The three-spoke steering wheel appears to be new and has mounted controls.

 

While areas such as the centre console and parts of the dashboard are not clearly visible in the teaser images, the overall layout suggests that much of the cabin design has been borrowed over. It remains to be seen whether Nissan will introduce additional features to differentiate the Gravite from its alliance partner, Renault. Similar to the Renault Triber, the Nissan Gravite will have a 5+2 seating layout.

 

Also Read: Nissan Gravite MPV Spied Testing Yet Again Ahead Of Jan 2026 Debut

On the equipment list, the Nissan Gravite is expected to offer features including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless charging pad, rear AC vents, and multiple charging outlets, among others. In terms of safety, the Gravite is likely to come equipped with six airbags, electronic stability control, hill-start assist and a tyre-pressure monitoring system, ISOFIX and parking sensors with a reverse camera.

 

On the outside, the Gravite features a distinct front-end design, highlighted by a prominent grille with a mesh-like pattern and swept-back headlamps with LED eyebrow-style elements. The front bumper incorporates C-shaped inserts on either side along with a central air dam. Teasers of the rear section suggest a layout similar to the Triber, with the main visible change being a revised bumper design.

 

Also Read: Nissan Gravite MPV (Renault Triber Derivative) To Be Launched Early In 2026

Under the hood, the Gravite is expected to use the familiar 1.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine seen across the Renault-Nissan CMF-A range. This unit produces 71 bhp and 96 Nm of torque and is likely to be offered with both manual and AMT transmission options.

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Jawa 730 Twin Unveiled

Jawa Moto has unveiled the new 730 Twin for global markets. However, it is important to note that this model is not related to the Jawa motorcycles currently sold in India. In the Indian market, the Jawa and Yezdi brands are operated by Classic Legends, which holds the rights to manufacture and sell these products locally under the Mahindra Group umbrella. The 730 Twin, on the other hand, has been developed by the original Czech brand, which continues to function independently.

 

Also Read: Indian Motorcycle Parts Ways With Polaris

The Jawa 730 Twin carries a unique design with a mix of contemporary and retro elements, though it is not easy to place neatly into one category. It features a compact profile with a sculpted fuel tank, exposed frame and a short tail section. Up front, the round LED headlamp and simple bodywork keep things minimal.

 

At present, Jawa’s global website lists three models under its 750 platform. The new 730 Twin packs the same 730cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine producing 74 bhp at 8,200 rpm. Jawa Moto mentions that the engine has been developed in collaboration with Swiss engineering firm Suter Racing Technology.

 

Also Read: BMW F 450 GS Based Sportbike Spotted On Test

Suspension duties are handled by fully adjustable KYB upside-down front forks and a rear monoshock. Braking hardware includes twin Brembo calipers at the front, while the bike runs on 17-inch alloy wheels at both ends. Other features include full LED lighting and smartphone-connectivity functions such as call and message alerts through the TFT instrument cluster, which also offers navigation.

 

The Jawa 730 Twin is expected to go on sale in the Czech Republic later this year. However, since the motorcycle has been developed independently by Jawa Moto in Europe, it is not linked to the Jawa range sold in India. As a result, its launch in the Indian market remains unlikely.

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Honda Dio 125 X-Edition, Shine 125 Limited Edition Launched

Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India has launched new special editions of the Dio 125 scooter and Shine 125 motorcycle. Called the Dio 125 X-Edition and Shine 125 Special Edition, the two models are priced at Rs 87,733 and Rs 86,211 (ex-showroom), respectively, and feature unique special-edition colourways and graphics compared to the standard models.

 

Also read: Honda Patents Steering Assist Tech For Motorcycles
 

 

Starting with the Dio 125 X-Edition, the scooter gets a new dual-tone Pearl Siren Blue and Pearl Deep Ground Grey colour scheme, along with X-Edition specific body graphics and Mat-Frash coloured alloy wheels. Honda says that the special edition is aimed at Gen Z and young riders who want to ‘project confidence and individuality’. At Rs 87,733 (ex-showroom), the special edition costs about Rs 1,000 more than the Dio 125 standard and gets similar features such as all LED lighting, TFT instrument cluster, engine idle stop/start system and USB Type-C charging socket.

 

Also Read: Honda Motorcycles Unveils New Branding For Flagship, Electric Range

 

Moving to the Shine 125 Limited Edition, the special edition motorcycle also gets an edition-specific livery, though the base Pearl Siren Blue colour is shared with the standard Shine 125. The special edition can also be identified by its pyrite-brown alloy wheels, compared to the standard motorcycle’s black-painted units. At Rs 86,211 (ex-showroom), the special edition Rs 1,000 more than the Shine 125 Disc while offering the same features.

 

Also Read: EICMA 2025: Honda CB1000GT Sport Tourer Revealed

 

Mechanically, neither model gets any changes from their standard counterparts.

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Hyundai i20 Line-Up Now Starts At Rs 5.99 Lakh

Hyundai India has rejigged the three variants of the i20 with a price reduction, making the hatchback more accessible than before. The entry-level Era variant is introduced with a price of Rs 5.99 lakh (ex-showroom). The two other variants – Magna and Magna Executive – have received a price cut and now retail at Rs 6.74 lakh and INR 6.99 lakh, respectively. 

The entry-level Era comes equipped with six airbags, a fully digital instrument cluster, front and rear skid plates, body colour ORVMs and door handles, a Type-C USB charger and telescopic steering. Meanwhile, the Magna Executive variant offers features like a fully digital cluster, front and rear skid plates, shark fin antenna, tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), automatic headlamps, telescopic steering, keyless entry, electrically adjustable ORVM, and steering wheel with audio & Bluetooth controls. And the Magna variant gets you an electric sunroof, LED DRLs, rear AC vents and a front armrest with storage.

Moreover, Hyundai is also offering a 25.55 cm (10.1-inch) touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, along with a rear camera, as a Dealer-Installed Option (DIO) at a price of Rs 14,999. Along with a 3-year/1,00,000 km warranty.

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Volkswagen Tayron R-Line’s Pre-Bookings Open For Rs. 51,000

Volkswagen India has announced the opening of pre-bookings for its upcoming flagship SUV – the Volkswagen Tayron. The new 3-row SUV is a successor to the Tiguan Allspace, the 7-seater version of the Tiguan, which is already on sale in India, also in the R-Line guise. And like the latter, the upcoming VW Tayron R-Line will also be offered in one fully loaded variant. Customers can pre-book the SUV for a token of Rs. 51,000; however, the price announcement will take place sometime later in February 2026.

 

Also Read: Volkswagen Tayron R-Line Review: Sensible Flagship For India

Commenting on the announcement, Nitin Kohli, Brand Director, Volkswagen India, said, "We, as India’s most loved, aspired for German car brand, are all set to introduce one of the most versatile, advanced and fun-to-drive luxury SUVs for our customers, to cater to all their lifestyle goals. With the premium 7-seater SUV market consisting of discerning buyers, it is crucial to have a product that offers both functionality along with style and substance.”

 

 

Interestingly, unlike the Tiguan R-Line, the upcoming Tayron R-Line will be locally assembled at the company’s Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar plant in Maharashtra. What this means is that the Tayron R-Line could, in fact, be very close to the Tiguan R-Line, making it more accessible to buyers in India. Also, unlike the Tiguan, it won’t be limited by allotment units. 

 

 

Now, as it’s built on the same MQB Evo architecture as the Tiguan, it will have some similarities. Notably, the 2.0-litre TSI EVO petrol engine from Volkswagen’s EA888 family. Globally, it is offered in multiple states of tune, but for India, it produces 200 bhp and 320 Nm of peak torque. Power is sent to all four wheels via a seven-speed DSG automatic and Volkswagen’s 4Motion AWD.

 

 

Visually, it will show signs of being from the same family, highlighting the proper European SUV styling. LED headlights with LED DRLs, connected LED taillamps, and sporty dual-tone alloy wheels, you get them all. The profile silhouette of the SUV will remind you of the Skoda Kodiaq, its rival-sibling from the Czech Republic, offering a nice, long footprint. In fact, with a 4,792 mm in length, 1,866 mm in width, and a wheelbase of 2,789 mm, it is marginally larger than the Skoda Kodiaq. 

 

 

The cabin, especially the dashboard, is identical to the Tiguan R-Line, offering the same 15-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 10.25-inch digital cockpit, and panoramic sunroof. VW is also offering an Augmented Reality Head-up Display (AR HUD), 30 shades of ambient lighting, and 12-way power-adjustable front seats. The good thing is, unlike the Tiguan R-Line, here, you do get a ventilation function as well. 

 

 

Other features include – 3-zone climate control, gesture control powered tailgate, and Harmon Kardon surround sound system. Safety-wise, you get nine airbags, ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Hill Assist Control for ascent and descent.

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Audi India Adds ‘My Auras’ In-Car Experience Modes

Audi India has added a new  ‘My Auras’ mode to select models in its range. The new feature is available via the MyAudi Connect app and integrates directly into compatible vehicles, letting users access the feature via the touchscreen.
 

Also read: Next-gen Audi Q3 Spied In India Ahead Of Launch In 2026
 

The ‘My Auras’ function is essentially a cabin modes package that syncs the various in-car comfort functions to improve the in-car ambience during the drive. The system accesses the vehicle’s air-con controls, ambient lighting and the seat heating, ventilation and massage functions to adjust the in-cabin at the touch of a button to fit the cabin mode selected. Audi says that the function also syncs with Apple Music to adjust the playlist to match the cabin ambience.
 

 

Also read: Audi Unveils Concept C; Signals Reborn TT Coming In 2027
 

Speaking on the new tech, Balbir Singh Dhillon, Brand Director, Audi India, said, “In line with our customer-centric strategy, we are introducing the My Auras feature on the myAudi Connect app. The My Auras app is a perfect representation of this ethos. Today’s users expect experiences that adapt to them, and the My Auras app delivers hyperpersonalized moods, ensuring that every drive feels intentional, whether it’s calming, energising, festive, or celebratory.”
 

Also Read: New Audi Q5 Plug-In Hybrid Revealed; Gets Up To 100 Km EV-Only Range
 

Audi says that the feature will be available across almost its entire model range, including the A4 and A6 sedans, Q3. Q3 Sportback, Q5, Q7 & Q8 (including RSQ8) SUVs and the Q8 e-tron electric SUVs. The feature is compatible with all models from the 2024 model year onwards.

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