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Nissan has taken the wraps off the new X-Trail, although for now, we’ve only got a look at the exterior and a few key details about what’s under the skin. The SUV will sport Nissan’s upgraded e-Power hybrid tech, but the company hasn’t shared full technical specifications just yet.
What we do know is that the X-Trail sticks with Nissan’s series-hybrid approach. In simple terms, the petrol engine isn’t connected to the wheels. Instead, it works as a generator, sending power to a battery, which in turn feeds an electric motor that actually drives the car. Nissan has also confirmed a dual-motor setup, which suggests that an all-wheel-drive version will be on offer, likely using the brand’s e-4orce system.
Furthermore, the new X-Trail is expected to continue with the same CMF-CD platform as the current model, but visually, it’s been given a fairly noticeable update. The front end gets a black unit housing a large trapezoidal grille and sharper LED lighting elements, which mirror the shape of the grille.
In profile, there’s more sculpting along the doors and wheel arches. Around the back, the design is a bit more squared-off, with chunkier proportions and updated tail-lamp detailing.
For now, Nissan is keeping many of the details, including its detailed specifications, interior and features under wraps, and we expect it to be announced in the coming months.
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Mere days after lifting the covers off of the facelift, Volkswagen India has today announced the prices for the 2026 Volkswagen Taigun. The range now starts at Rs 11 lakh – which is a chunky Rs 42,000 lower than the previous starting price for Volkswagen's compact SUV – and goes all the way up to Rs 19.30 lakh (all prices, ex-showroom) for the fully-loaded, 1.5-litre automatic version. Volkswagen has also announced an assured buyback plan, which promises residual value of 75 per cent of the SUV's ex-showroom price for vehicles used for 3 years or 30,000 kilometres, but this plan will only be applicable for those who book the Taigun facelift before May 31, 2026.
With the launch of the Taigun facelift, the gap between the base variant of the VW and its mechanical sibling, the Skoda Kushaq, is down to Rs 30,000, as the Taigun Comfortline, with its 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine and six-speed manual, is priced at Rs 11 lakh.
Entry-level Taigun Comfortline is now cheaper by around Rs 42,000.
The newly-introduced 8-speed automatic is available from the Highline variant onwards, priced from Rs 13.80 lakh. The 1.0-litre TSI range tops out at Rs 17.17 lakh for the Topline automatic variant, while the 1.5-litre TSI engine – available only with the 7-speed DSG automatic – sits at the top of the lineup, with prices ranging from Rs 19 lakh to Rs 19.30 lakh.
Variant name
1.0 MT
1.0 AT
1.5 DSG
Comfortline
Rs 11 lakh
-
-
Highline
Rs 12.70 lakh
Rs 13.80 lakh
-
Highline Plus
Rs 14.30 lakh
Rs 15.45 lakh
-
GT Line
Rs 14.60 lakh
Rs 15.75 lakh
-
Topline
Rs 16 lakh
Rs 17.17 lakh
-
GT Plus Chrome
-
-
Rs 19 lakh
GT Plus Sport
-
-
Rs 19.30 lakh
This is a developing story. Please stay tuned for more updates.
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When Volkswagen launched the Taigun back in 2021, it quickly built a reputation for being one of the sharpest driver’s SUVs in the segment. Along with strong build quality, clean German design, and sorted road manners, it gained a loyal following as well in the highly competitive C-SUV space. Now for 2026, the Taigun gets a mid-life update. This is not a full generational change, but a meaningful facelift aimed at keeping it relevant in a segment crowded with fresher rivals. Here’s everything that’s improved over the outgoing model:
The old Taigun wore a clean, understated design. It looked premium with a design that did age well compared to its flashy rivals. With the 2026 update, it appears to have gotten sharper with inspiration taken from its elder siblings. The revised LED headlamps are now redesigned and match the Tayron; the front grille gets connected lights with an illuminated logo, and the tweaked bumpers are more flamboyant than before.
At the rear, the black panel running across the tailgate now houses updated and redesigned tail-lamp detailing. The VW logo at the rear is illuminated too. There’s a newer alloy wheel design along with newer paint options – Avocado Pearl and Steel Grey.
On the inside, the outgoing Taigun impressed with solid fit-finish and an ergonomic dashboard layout. But the cabin design began to feel familiar and simpler as newer rivals started offering flashier screens and richer materials. On the new one, the cabin design and layout largely remain unchanged, but there are some necessary updates.
Based on the variant, there are six interior trims ranging from only fabric to faux leather with accents. You also get an updated 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with a voice assistant and a new digital cluster that offers turn-by-turn navigation. In the range-topping version, there’s the addition of a panoramic sunroof, while you still get the 6-way power-adjustable front seats with ventilation.
In terms of safety, there are 40+ standard offerings, including 6 airbags, multi-collision brakes, Electronic Stability Control, front & rear parking sensors, brake disc wiping, and hill-hold assist. The higher variants bring features like a rear parking camera, but despite a major update, Volkswagen has excluded the 360-view cameras or ADAS with the new Taigun, which should have been offered with this facelift.
Volkswagen Taigun Old vs New: Powertrain
Under the hood, there are no significant changes except one. The new Taigun continues with its existing set of turbo-petrol engines – 1.0-litre TSI and 1.5-litre TSI. While the one change comes in the form of a new eight-speed automatic torque converter unit, which replaces the older six-speed unit. The output for 1.0L remains the same at 114 bhp and 178 Nm, while the 1.5-litre TSI unit makes 148 bhp and 250 Nm, is now only offered with the 7-speed DSG automatic.
Volkswagen Taigun Old vs New: Verdict
While the old Taigun was already one of the most complete compact SUVs for enthusiasts, the 2026 version appears focused on fixing the few areas where rivals had pulled ahead, which includes design updates and in-cabin appeal. If priced smartly, the refreshed Taigun could remind the segment why it has been a German benchmark in the first place.
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Kia has laid out its roadmap for India over the next few years, and hybrids are clearly going to play a bigger role in it. At its 2026 CEO Investor Day, the carmaker confirmed that it plans to have a 10-model lineup in the country by 2030, with as many as 8 from the lot being electrified in some form. That list includes hybrid versions of the Kia Sorento and Kia Carnival. The former will be a new offering from the brand in India, while the latter is currently offered in diesel guise.
Starting with the Sorento, this is a model that will essentially sit above the Seltos in the brand's India portfolio and will offer a three-row layout. In its hybrid form overseas, it packs a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with an electric motor, putting out 224 bhp. It is paired with a 6-speed automatic gearbox, and in some markets, it also gets the option of all-wheel drive.
In terms of size and positioning, the Sorento is a step above what Kia currently offers here, stretching over 4.8 metres in length. The feature list includes dual screens for the infotainment and instrument cluster, ventilated seats, a head-up display and a panoramic sunroof on higher trims.
Then there’s the Carnival. The current India-spec Kia Carnival, which returned in its latest generation in 2024, is diesel-only. Globally, though, Kia also offers a hybrid version of the MPV, and that’s what is being considered for India. This version runs on a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine with an electric motor, which should provide better efficiency than the diesel.
Apart from the powertrain, not many changes in terms of layout or features for the Carnival are expected in the Hybrid version.
Kia will also introduce the Syros EV in India, which has already been spotted testing on Indian roads. It is expected to share its underpinnings with the Carens Clavis EV. Power is likely to come from a front-mounted electric motor, paired with either a 42 kWh or a 51.4 kWh battery pack, with a claimed range of up to 490 km on a single charge.
In terms of design, the Syros EV appears to retain the boxy, tallboy stance of the ICE version, with test mules showing similar alloy wheels and the L-shaped tail-lamps positioned around the rear windscreen. The charging port is expected to be located on the front left fender, as seen in earlier spy shots.
“Kia says it is targeting annual sales of 4,10,000 units in India by 2030, with a projected market share of 7.6 per cent. As part of this strategy, the company plans to expand its lineup to 10 models, including eight electrified vehicles such as the Syros EV, Sorento Hybrid and Carnival Hybrid, while also scaling its dealer network to 800 outlets.”
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Mercedes-Benz India has expanded its AMG portfolio with the launch of a new Performance Edition for the AMG GLE 53 Coupe, while also launching the AMG A45 S in a new Aero Track Edition avatar. The GLE in this edition is priced at Rs 1.52 crore, while the A45 S costs Rs 87 lakh (ex-showroom).
The AMG GLE Coupe Performance Edition is priced at Rs 1.52 crore (ex-showroom) and gets the addition of the AMG Dynamic Plus Package. This package introduces a range of performance-focused changes, including AMG Active Ride Control suspension and high-performance composite brakes with ventilated and perforated discs, finished with red callipers.
The SUV also gets an AMG Performance steering wheel with integrated controls, along with the AMG Track Pace system integrated into the MBUX interface. This setup allows drivers to access real-time telemetry such as lap times, acceleration, braking and steering inputs. The model rides on 22-inch AMG cross-spoke alloy wheels.
Powering the GLE Coupe is a 3.0-litre inline-six engine producing 429 bhp and 520 Nm, enabling a 0 to 100 kmph sprint in 5.3 seconds and a top speed of 250 kmph.
Alongside the GLE, Mercedes-AMG has launched the A45 S Aero Track Edition, priced at Rs 87 lakh (ex-showroom). This version brings a motorsport-inspired aerodynamic package, including a larger front splitter with flics, a fixed rear wing, additional rear airflow elements and an optimised diffuser.
The Aero Track Edition also features the AMG Night Package, adding blacked-out elements such as the splitter, side sills, window trims, mirror caps and black chrome exhaust tips. It rides on 19-inch AMG forged cross-spoke wheels and gets red-painted brake callipers.
Under the hood, the A45 S continues with its 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four engine producing 416 bhp and 500 Nm, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph in 3.9 seconds, with a top speed of 270 kmph.
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At last, Royal Enfield's first-ever electric motorcycle is now on sale in India – albeit in a single city, for the time being. The Flying Flea C6, which debuted in 2024, has been rolled out at a price of Rs 2.79 lakh (ex-showroom), and it can also be had with a battery-as-a-service plan, which lowers the initial purchase price to Rs 1.99 lakh. This places Royal Enfield's maiden EV in unique territory, because while it may not have a direct rival, it is priced rather close to the Ultraviolette F77, which is a vastly more powerful electric sport bike. The C6 will be retailed via dedicated Flying Flea stores, the first of which has been inaugurated today in Jayanagar, Bengaluru. Deliveries will begin in May, and the motorcycle will be introduced in other cities in a phased manner, the company said in a statement.
2026 Royal Enfield Flying Flea C6: Battery and performance
At the core of the Flying Flea C6 is a 3.91 kWh battery, which powers a permanent magnet motor developing a peak 20.6 bhp at 3,500 rpm and a peak 60 Nm of torque, sent to the rear wheel via belt drive. Since the C6 weighs just 124 kg, it can do 0-60 kmph in just 3.7 seconds, and hit a top speed of 115 kmph.
2026 Royal Enfield Flying Flea C6: Range and charging
The low weight of the motorcycle also means it has a reasonably high range for a motorcycle that's also quick. Royal Enfield promises a range of up to 154 km (Indian Driving Cycle), and even real-world range should be in triple digits.
Royal Enfield has built a 2.2 kW onboard charger into the Flying Flea C6, which can charge the motorcycle fully in two hours and 15 minutes when plugged into a 16-amp wall socket. The company claims charging from 20 to 80 per cent takes just a little over an hour, and the motorcycle will also come with three selectable charging speeds – Rapid, Standard and Trickle.
2026 Royal Enfield Flying Flea C6: Design and dimensions
Inspired by the original Flying Flea motorcycle from the 1940s, which was developed for the battlefield, the C6 has more than a hint of yesteryear to its design. It is unrivalled in the way it looks, especially when it comes to electric motorcycles, with one of its defining design highlights being the forged aluminium girder fork, paired with an articulating mudguard. Also unique is the finned magnesium casing for the battery.
The C6 employs a 19-inch wheel at each end, shod in thin 90/90-section Ceat tyres. Seat height is rated at 823 mm, while ground clearance is rated at 207 mm. The tank area houses the start button for the motorcycle, along with a 15-watt wireless phone charging pad. The pillion seat is removable, and the footpegs are adjustable.
2026 Royal Enfield Flying Flea C6: Tech and safety
In keeping with the retro theme, the Flying Flea C6 has a round 3.5-inch TFT touchscreen dash, which houses a variety of vehicle functions, including selectable energy regeneration levels. In addition to the wireless charger, the C6 also has a 27-watt USB-C charge port, and the bike comes with an electronic handlebar lock.
In terms of safety, the C6 employs a disc brake at either end, coupled with lean angle-sensing anti-lock braking system (ABS) and traction control (TCS).
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Volkswagen India is set to debut the Taigun facelift in the country today, April 9, 2026. The carmaker has already previewed the exterior of the refreshed model on the sidelines of announcing the start of production at its Chakan facility in Pune.
The update marks the first significant refresh for the compact SUV since its introduction in 2021 and brings in design cues inspired by the Tiguan and Tayron SUVs, especially from the front end.
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Volkswagen India is set to debut the Taigun facelift in the country today, April 9, 2026. The carmaker has already previewed the exterior of the refreshed model on the sidelines of announcing the start of production at its Chakan facility in Pune.
The update marks the first significant refresh for the compact SUV since its introduction in 2021 and brings in design cues inspired by the Tiguan and Tayron SUVs, especially from the front end.
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Volkswagen India is set to launch the Taigun facelift in the country today, April 9, 2026. The carmaker has already previewed the exterior of the refreshed model on the sidelines of announcing the start of production at its Chakan facility in Pune.
The update marks the first significant refresh for the compact SUV since its introduction in 2021 and brings in design cues inspired by the Tiguan and Tayron SUVs, especially from the front end.
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Volkswagen will be introducing the new and updated Taigun facelift in India tomorrow. It is the first major update for VW’s C-SUV offering since its arrival in 2021. Production of the new Taigun has already commenced at Volkswagen’s Pune plant, and here’s everything you need to know about the new Taigun.
New 1.0-litre 8-Speed AT
Following the heels of the new Skoda Kushaq facelift, the new Taigun will also get the new eight-speed torque converter, which will replace the six-speed unit. This new automatic gearbox is made by the AISIN (like the old one) and is quick shifting as well as smooth shifting one. Meanwhile, the 1.5-litre four-cylinder with DSG automatic will continue without any change.
Tiguan/Tayron Inspired Face
Change on the surface will be seen on the fascia, which adopts its family cues seen on the bigger Tiguan and its three-row version, Tayron. The sleeker headlamps and sculpted bumpers now look more modern and upmarket. At the back, the connected tail lamp setup wears a newer signature. New colour options and alloy wheel design are part of the update as well.
Refreshed Cabin
Where the Skoda Kushaq facelift didn’t carry a significant change when it comes to the cabin. There might be a newer infotainment screen interface, the all-digital driver’s display is expected to get newer graphics, and a dashboard layout might get some tweaks as well. While features like the panoramic sunroof are now offered in the Kushaq, whether that will be offered in the Taigun remains to be seen. Moreover, features like the 360-degree camera or ADAS are not offered in the Kushaq and may not be included here as well.
However, debuting with the Kushaq is a rear seat massage function. We could also expect this feature to be offered in the Taigun.
Price and Rival
While the current Taigun is priced between Rs 10.58 – 19.19 lakh (ex-showroom), the new one is expected to get a slight bump in the pricing. When it goes on sale, it will continue to rival other C-SUVs like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Tata Sierra, Toyota Hyryder, Skoda Kushaq Facelift, Maruti Grand Vitara, Maruti Victoris, MG Astor, Honda Elevate, and the new Renault Duster.
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VinFast has finally confirmed the arrival of the MPV 7 in India as its third offering. Bookings are open, and launch is around the corner. On paper, with its three-row seating, it’s aiming straight at the sweet spot of India’s growing electric MPV space. So let us take a look at the three other three-row EVs that the MPV 7 will go up against.
Dimensions:
Dimension
VinFast VF MPV 7
Kia Carens Clavis EV
BYD eMax 7
Mahindra XEV 9S
Length (mm)
4,740
4,550
4,710
4,737
Width (mm)
1,872
1,800
1,810
1,900
Height (mm)
1,734
1,730
1,690
1,747
Wheelbase (mm)
2,840
2,780
2,800
2,762
The MPV 7 leads in wheelbase, which translates to better third-row practicality, at least on paper. But the XEV 9S is the widest and tallest owing to its proper SUV stance, and that matters to a lot of buyers in India. Also, the VinFast rides on 19-inch wheels, a size larger than its competitors here.
Powertrains
Specification
VinFast VF MPV 7
Kia Carens Clavis EV
BYD eMax 7
Mahindra XEV 9S
Battery
60.13 kWh
42 kWh / 51.4 kWh
55.4 kWh / 71.8 kWh
59 kWh / 70 kWh / 79 kWh
Power
200 bhp
135 bhp / 171 bhp
163 bhp / 204 bhp
231 bhp / 286 bhp
Torque
280 Nm
255 Nm
310 Nm
380 Nm
Range (Claimed)
450 km (NEDC)
404 km / 490 km (MIDC)
420 km / 530 km (NEDC)
521 km – 679 km (MIDC)
The VinFast positions itself right in the middle, offering more power than the Kia Clavis EV. It does match the top-spec BYD on power but sits below the Mahindra on outright performance. Battery-wise, too, it threads the gap, offering a 60kWh battery pack that’s larger than the Kia’s 51kWh but is slightly smaller than the biggest BYD and Mahindra packs, both of which offer 70+kWh.
When it comes to range, we will consider the claimed figures for this comparison, and the eMax 7 and XEV 9S stretch significantly further on paper. VinFast’s 450 km claimed figure is under NEDC, but the Vietnamese carmaker claims a 500+ km MIDC figure is expected for India. Also worth noting here is that the Mahindra is the only rear-wheel-drive model here, while the rest are only offered as front-wheel drive.
Pricing:
Model
Price Range
VinFast VF MPV 7
Rs 15–20 lakh (expected)
Kia Carens Clavis EV
Rs 17.99–24.99 lakh
BYD eMax 7
Rs 26.90–29.90 lakh
Mahindra XEV 9S
Rs 19.95–29.45 lakh
We have already discussed the shock price strategy VinFast can adopt to disrupt this segment on the MPV 7’s arrival. While at the moment, the Kia remains the most accessible, and the BYD sits at the premium end. The Mahindra spans both ends of the spectrum. The VinFast is expected to make this segment a lot more accessible, and that’s critical for its success, too.
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