Tata Aeris Launched As Tigor Successor; Prices Start At Rs 5.29 Lakh

Tata Motors’ renewed attempt at challenging the dominance of the Maruti Suzuki Dzire is the Aeris Subcompact sedan, which has been launched in India at a starting price of Rs 5.29 lakh (ex-showroom). 

 

Initially thought to be a mere facelift, the Aeris is a more extensive revamp of the slow-selling sub-four metre sedan, as it uses a heavily modified platform, and also has a completely new interior. The Aeris will be available in five trim levels – Smart, Pure, Pure+, Creative and Accomplished and with petrol and CNG powertrains.

 

Tata Aeris: Price and Variant 

Engine	1.2L Petrol	1.2 Petrol+ CNG
Transmission	MT	MT
Smart	₹5.29 Lakh	₹6.29 Lakh
Pure	₹6.14 Lakh	₹7.14 Lakh
Pure +	₹6.74 Lakh	₹7.74 Lakh
Creative	₹7.49 Lakh	₹8.49 Lakh
Accomplished	₹8.19 Lakh	₹9.19 Lakh

Tata Aeris: Design and platform

The Aeris now uses the same X-Alfa platform as the recently launched Tiago facelift. This, according to Tata’s Anand Kulkarni Product line director, EV, Passenger Vehicles Business Unit, helps the car’s electrical and electronics architecture make a significant leap. That said, the dimensions of the Aeris are nearly identical to the Tigor’s.

The Aeris has a new face – similar to the Tiago's – and a connected tail-light, which has been added to make the Aeris look bigger and wider, according to Tata design chief Martin Uhlarik. Wheel size, though remains the same, at 15 inches on the top variant.

 

Also Read: Tata Sierra Dark Edition Launched At Rs 13.99 Lakh

 

Tata Aeris: Interior and features

Once again, the Aeris’ cabin is a complete departure from the Tigor’s, and in its layout and appearance, almost the same as the Tiago’s. It features a 10.25-inch touchscreen, a digital instrument cluster island and a two-spoke steering wheel. 

Tata is keen on making an impact with the features list, so the Aeris packs segment-firsts such as ventilated leatherette seats and a dashcam with ‘sentry’ recording mode. Other features include blind spot monitoring enabled by the 360-degree cameras, wireless charging and 65-watt USB-C charging points.

 

Tata Aeris: Safety features

 

A big upgrade for the Aeris over the Tigor is the fitment of six airbags as standard. Other important safety features include ESP, hill hold control, type pressure monitoring, rear defogger and a leak detection system in the CNG variant.

 

Tata Aeris: Engine and gearbox

 

In this department, the Aeris is almost identical to the Tigor. It retains the same 1.2-litre petrol engine, and will be available with a twin-cylinder CNG option, too. Interestingly, the Aeris CNG is available in all variants – including the fully-loaded Accomplished – bar one (Smart).

However, Tata says it has recalibrated both petrol and CNG powertrains to enhance driveability and efficiency. When running on CNG, the Aeris makes a little more power and torque than before. Kulkarni told car&bike in real-world use, the Aeris petrol should have a fuel efficiency figure of around 16 kmpl.

 

Also Read: Tata Sierra Legend Series Launched At Rs 11.99 Lakh; Adds More Features To Entry And Mid Trims

 

Tata Aeris: Rivals

 

The Aeris takes aim at the Maruti Suzuki Dzire, Honda Amaze and Hyundai Aura.

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Tata Aeris Launch Today: What To Expect?

The Tata Tigor has been in the Indian market for almost a decade. Now, the ‘Tigor’ name is set to be replaced by the Tata 'Aeris’. The Aeris is expected to sit on the same platform as the Tigor, but it gets a major makeover, both on the exterior and interior. The launch of this subcompact sedan is slated for today, and here’s what you can expect from it.

Also Read: Tata Aeris Launch LIVE Updates: Prices, Exterior, Interior, Specifications

Tata Aeris: Exterior 

Teasers released by the company and several spy shots reveal that the Aeris is going to feature a completely new face, leaving behind the design language of the Tigor. Although it carries the same silhouette, there are several exterior changes.

At the front, it will get a new LED headlight setup, along with fog lights fitted at the corners of the bumper. Moreover, the bumper gets a minimalist layout featuring air curtains that draw air from the front and direct it towards the brakes.

 

Also Read: Tata Sierra Dark Edition Launched At Rs 13.99 Lakh

 

The headlights are expected to feature a reflector-based all-LED setup. Surrounding the headlights will be the thin LED DRLs. It will retain the thick black bar connecting the headlights on either side. Overall, the front design will be simple yet sharp.

At the side, we expect the design to remain largely the same, as it retains a similar silhouette to the Tata Tigor. However, there will be a new alloy wheel design.

The rear will be heavily redesigned with a new set of taillights connecting LED strip running across both sides. The taillight setup will be all-LED, with the indicators integrated. The boot lid will feature a subtle spoiler to make the rear look sharper.

 

Tata Aeris: Interior

 

Tata also revealed the interior in a new teaser. The interior is very subtle and features a beige colour theme, with the AC vents, AC controls, steering wheel and infotainment system finished in dark grey/black.

From the teaser, we know that it will come with a 10.25-inch infotainment system with a 360-degree camera. For safety, the Aeris will also be equipped with a dashcam.

There are physical controls for the air conditioning, which can be adjusted using knobs.

 

Also Read: Tata Sierra Legend Series Launched At Rs 11.99 Lakh; Adds More Features To Entry And Mid Trims

The steering wheel gets physical buttons for call and audio controls. Moreover, it will come with paddle shifters, which will be a first for the brand’s compact sedan family.

 

In the centre console, the gear lever has been deleted and replaced by a gear knob. Alongside this, there is a wireless smartphone charging pad and USB Type-C ports.

Overall, the interior appears to share several elements with the Tata Tiago, including the new steering wheel and infotainment system.

 

Tata Aeris: Powertrain Details

 

The Tata Aeris is expected to get the same powertrain options as the Tata Tigor: a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated three-cylinder engine, which can be paired with manual and AMT gearboxes. The same engine is also available with the CNG variants. However, the Aeris could feature the dual-cylinder CNG technology seen on the Tata Punch CNG.

 

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Proposed Motor Insurance Laws Could Result In Lower Premiums, More Choices For Vehicle Buyers

The way you buy motor insurance could be in for a major change if the proposals by The Insurance Regulatory Authority of India (IRDAI) come into force. The idea is to make the entire process simpler for the consumer using a more seamless digital medium while reducing commissions on insurance at the same time. This could result in lower premiums in times to come and also give the consumer more choice while selecting an insurance provider. Here's a look at some key proposals.

 

Buy Insurance From Where You Want

 

Under the new proposals while purchasing a new vehicle the customer will be given the option of taking insurance through a digital medium like Bima Sugam and not just rely on the dealer for it. The dealer will have to give the option to customer (likely via a QR code) so that the he can make an informed choice while buying the policy for the vehicle. The proposed platform fee has been kept at 5% of the premium amount which will directly result on the overall premium of the vehicle going down.

 

Also Read: Can Independent Multi-Brand Garages Safely Service Electric Cars In India?

 

Seamless Cashless Repairs

 

The dealers will also not be able to deny cashless repairs to consumers if the policy is not purchased from them. This has been a major bone of contention between the buyers and service centers for a long time with buyers reporting hostile behaviour if the insurance policy was bought separately. Under the new guidelines it will not matter where the policy has been purchased from and the dealer will have to facilitate a cashless claim filed by the user.  

Dealer Commissions To Go Down

 

The new proposals also aim to reduce dealer commissions more so for third party policies. According to reports, commission on insurance has gone up significantly over the last few years across all kinds of policies. In certain cases dealer margins went upto as high as 50% and even the average number stood at around 25% in the previous financial year making it a significant chunk of the total amount the buyer has to pay while selecting a policy. This can come down as low as 5%.

 

Future of Dealers As Insurance Sellers?

 

IRDAI has also proposed that dealers and insurance provides will be brought under a more organised framework. They will have to register as an insurance distribution entity (IDE) is they wish to sell insurance policies to the buyers. The other option will be to tie up with an IDE as an associate in order to keep selling policies. This will insure a more streamlined process with a larger digital presence for the benefit of the consumer.

 

These proposals are still at a consultation stage and could still take some time to come into effect if formulated. The idea is to make a complex process a lot more simpler which helps the consumer make an informed and correct choice.  It remains to be seen how insurance providers and dealers will react to these proposals as they stand to lose revenues but overall it could also result in a larger consumer base in the country. 
 

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Nissan Pixo Micro EV Unveiled: Gets Pixelated Styling, 259 km Range

Nissan has revealed the Pixo, a new electric A-segment city car designed specifically for European markets. It shares its underpinnings with the Renault Twingo but gets a distinct Nissan take on the design. The Pixo has been developed jointly with Renault, with Nissan responsible for the design. Production will take place at Renault's Novo Mesto facility in Slovenia.

 

Nissan Pixo: Exterior

While the Pixo is based on the Twingo, Nissan has gone to some lengths to make the new EV look different. The design takes a much more square, pixel-inspired approach, with a flattened nose, squared headlights with 7-shaped DRLs and a broad stance. The lower grille opening is made up of small square elements; while there is a small smiley etched on the right side. 

 

Also Read: Bentley Torcal Revealed As Brand’s First EV With 600 Km Range

At the rear, the Pixo gets a flat tail section and square taillights. Furthermore, it gets a flat roof and a steeply raked windscreen. A small smiling pixel motif is also found on the taillight. The Pixo measures 3,796mm long, 1,790mm wide and 1,512mm tall, with a 2,492mm wheelbase.

 

Nissan Pixo: Interior

Inside, the Pixo gets a long panel with a layered dashboard which has pointed ends on top. Along with the infotainment and driver’s display, physical controls and knobs are still part of the package for key functions. Notably, there is no centre console here, with some storage space dividing the front chairs.

 

The equipment list includes Google built-in, with Google's Gemini AI assistant, along with Nissan's connected services. The steering wheel is a three-spoke flat-bottom unit with mounted controls. The gear lever is mounted on the column behind the wheel.

 

Also Read: Nissan Tekton Tekna+ vs Kia Seltos GTX (O): Top Spec Variants Compared

Despite its small footprint, the Pixo offers a 356-litre boot with the rear seats in place, which expands to 1,221 litres with them folded. The standard driver-assistance package includes automated emergency braking and lane-keeping assistance, while Nissan's e-Pedal system is also available.
 

Nissan Pixo: Powertrain and battery

 

Nissan hasn't changed the recipe when it comes to powertrain and battery pack. The Pixo gets the same running gear as the Twingo, which is a 27.5kWh LFP battery returning a claimed range of up to 259 km on the WLTP cycle. The electric motor produces 80.4 bhp, while 50kW DC rapid charging is standard. Nissan says a 15-80 per cent charge takes 28 minutes. The car also gets 11kW bidirectional AC charging. 

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Bajaj Pulsar NS200, NS400Z TFT Variants Reach Dealerships Ahead Of Launch

Bajaj Auto is preparing to expand its new TFT-equipped Pulsar range, with updated versions of the Pulsar NS200 and Pulsar NS400Z spotted at dealerships ahead of their official launch. The two motorcycles get Bajaj’s new 5-inch TFT instrument cluster, bringing a significant technology upgrade to the NS range.

The new TFT unit supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity and works with Bajaj’s smartphone application. It offers Google Maps mirroring, with Android users able to access navigation even when their phone screen is switched off. Other connected functions include music controls, call alerts, third-party app notifications and digital storage for documents such as the driving licence, insurance and registration certificate. Both bikes also get revised switchgear to operate the new display.

The Pulsar NS200, however, gets more than just a technology upgrade. The updated motorcycle is expected to feature WP Apex USD front forks, bringing more premium hardware to the 200 cc streetfighter. There have also been reports of possible changes to the tyres and braking hardware, although these details have not been officially confirmed.

The NS400Z, meanwhile, appears to retain its existing mechanical package. It is expected to continue with the 349.13 cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine producing 40.6 bhp and 33.2 Nm.

Bajaj has not yet announced the launch date or pricing for the updated motorcycles. However, their arrival at dealerships suggests that the official announcement and deliveries could begin shortly, ahead of the festive season.

 

Image Source: Venom_400z & rider_samadhan_pawar01

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Bentley Torcal Revealed As Brand’s First EV With 600 Km Range

It has taken Bentley 107 years to build its first electric car. The British luxury carmaker has revealed the Torcal, a new electric SUV that becomes its fourth model line, alongside the Bentayga, Continental and Flying Spur. It will be offered in standard and S versions, with up to 600 km of claimed WLTP range and as much as 875 bhp in its most powerful form. The Torcal shares its platform with the Porsche Cayenne Electric and is also the first model to boast the brand’s new emblem.

 

Bentley Torcal: Powertrain and Battery Pack

The Torcal gets power from two permanent-magnet synchronous motors, one on each axle. The standard version produces around 810 bhp and 1,194 Nm, enabling it to accelerate from 0-100 kmph in 3.4 sec before hitting a top speed of 250 kmph.  

The Torcal S increases output to 875 bhp and 1,350 Nm when Launch Control is active. It can complete the 0-100 kmph run in 2.9 sec and has a top speed of 260 kmph.

 

The battery has a net capacity of 113 kWh and runs on an 800V electrical architecture. Bentley claims a maximum WLTP range of 600km. Using a 400 kW charger, the battery can go from 10 to 80 per cent in 16 minutes, while 161 km of range can be added in seven minutes (claimed).

 

Also Read: 2027 Bentley Flying Spur Debuts With Continental GT-Like Face, 671 bhp V8 PHEV Option

 

Bentley Torcal: Exterior

Now to the way it looks. The Torcal takes Bentley's traditional upright grille and gives it a new interpretation. The squared-off grille is made up of illuminated crystal diamonds, with clear-centred elements on the standard car and black-filled diamonds on the S.

 

The front end is relatively sharp for an electric SUV, while the long wheelbase and short overhangs give it a substantial stance. At the rear, a raised section behind the cabin takes inspiration from the coachbuilt Bentleys of the 1930s. The LED tail-lights also feature a diamond pattern, while it sports pronounced rear haunches and flared wheel arches.

 

The standard Torcal rides on 21-inch wheels, while the S comes with 22-inch wheels as standard. The Torcal S gets its own set of cosmetic changes, including black exterior trim, dark rear lamps, red brake callipers, S badging, sports pedals and Piano Black veneer.

 

Also Read: Volkswagen Tukan Pickup Truck Unveiled In Brazil

The Torcal is also the first production Bentley to wear the company's recently redesigned emblem. Its name comes from El Torcal de Antequera, a rock formation in Spain, akin to other cars in the carmaker's lineup.

 

Bentley Torcal: Interior

The cabin sticks to Bentley's familiar approach, with the dashboard retaining the brand's wing-inspired design. Physical controls remain on the centre console and steering wheel, while leather, wood, aluminium, and wool run throughout the interior.

 

The front seats get 16-way adjustment, heating, ventilation, adjustable bolsters and massage as standard. Optional bits here include Bentley's Postural Adjust and Smart Seat Climate systems, which make continuous adjustments to the seat and temperature settings. The Wellness Seat Specification takes the massage function further, extending it into the seat cushion. Towards the rear, it gets a power-fold function, a first for a Bentley.

 

Bentley Torcal: Features

The Torcal gets curved OLED displays, facial recognition for loading individual driver settings and a mobile device key that allows a smartphone to be used in place of the conventional key. An augmented-reality head-up display can project navigation directions and ADAS information into the driver's field of view. The SUV also comes with 25 radars, sensors and cameras for its driver-assistance and parking systems. The technology includes assistance for towing, parallel parking, remote parking through an app and more.

 

The Torcal also gets powered doors that can open and close automatically. There are two audio systems. The standard setup has 16 speakers and 620W, while the optional Naim system gets 28 speakers, 1,780W, Dolby Atmos, seat shakers and speakers integrated into the front headrests.

 

Bentley Torcal: Hardware

The Torcal gets fully active suspension with adaptive two-valve dampers. Each damper can be adjusted independently in response to road and driver inputs, while the system also handles body roll without anti-roll bars.

 

 All-wheel steering is standard, with the rear wheels able to turn by up to five degrees.  Braking is handled by 420mm front and 370mm rear iron discs. A carbon-silicon-carbide brake package is also available, with 440mm front and 410mm rear discs.

 

Bentley Torcal: Sound

Bentley has created a dedicated sound for the Torcal rather than simply trying to reproduce the noise of an internal-combustion engine. The Dynamic Symphony uses recordings of real instruments, including drums, viola and bass guitar, with its volume and character changing according to vehicle speed and torque demand.

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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.

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

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

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

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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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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.

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.

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

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.

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

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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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.

 

 

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

 

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."

 

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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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