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Oil marketing companies (OMCs) have announced an increase in prices of premium petrol by around Rs. 2 per litre. The evolving situation in the middle east owing to the war has impacted fuel supplies in the country which has resulted in this price increase. Prices for regular petrol though remain unaffected for now. After the hike the prices for Premium petrol in Delhi has crossed the Rs. 100 per litre mark and now stands at close to Rs. 102 per litre.
The quantum of increase ranges from Rs. 2 per litre to Rs. 2.35 per litre depending on the OMC. Three major oil marketing companies Bharat Petroleum, Indian Oil and Hindustan Petroleum sell premium petrol versions which are called Speed, XP 95 and Power respectively.
The hike was announced by Joint Secretary, Ministry of petroleum and Natural Gas, Sujata Sharma in an inter-ministerial press briefing held today in Delhi. According to the Ministry, the share of premium petrol in the overall sale of petrol in the country is around 2-4 percent.
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Shortly after rolling out updates for the Carens Clavis EV, Kia has now rolled out updates for its internal combustion engine (ICE) sibling for the 2026 model year. The ICE Carens Clavis, like its EV sibling, gets the addition of new GT-Line and X-Line trims along with a feature list revision focused around the mid-spec models. Prices for the 2026MY Kia Carens Clavis (ICE) start from Rs 11.21 lakh (ex-showroom).
Starting at the top, the Carens Clavis gets two new GT-Line variants - GTX and GTX+ - along with a range-topping X-Line trim. As in other Kia models, the GT-Line trims get a slightly more sportier look with contrast-finished brake callipers, gloss black skid plates, black upholstery with white inserts, and metal-finished pedals. The GT Line trims also feature LED fog lamps - a feature previously only offered on the Clavis EV.
Compared to the HTX+ (pictured), the GT-Line trims get gloss black finish to the skid plates, LED fog lamps and lime-coloured brake callipers.
The X-Line trim, meanwhile, gets darkened chrome inserts atop the cosmetic changes to the GT-Line variants, as well as variant-unique black and green upholstery and a Dark Gun Metal paint finish.
On the feature front, the GTX builds upon the HTX trim levels so you get features such as LED headlamps with DRLs, LED fog lamps (GT-Line & X-Line exclusive), auto climate control, twin 12.25-inch displays, and 360-degree cameras. The GTX+, meanwhile, is based on the previously top-spec HTX+ so you get all the bells and whistles, including Level 2 ADAS tech, ventilated front seats, rain-sensing wipers and more. Unique to the GTX+ is the availability of a Digital Key.
Beige cabin of the HTX+ (pictured) is replaced by an all-black cabin with white inserts in GT-Line; X-Line gets black upholstery with green inserts.
The X-Line is based on the GTX+ trim but only gets cosmetic changes.
On the powertrain front, the GT-Line and X-Line trims are exclusively available with the 1.5 T-GDi turbo-petrol engine paired with the 7-speed DCT gearbox. Prices for the new variants are as follows:
Variant
Price (ex-showroom)
GTX 1.5 Turbo DCT (6/7-seater)
Rs 19.81 lakh
GTX+ 1.5 Turbo DCT (6/7-seater)
Rs 21.57 lakh
X-Line 1.5 Turbo DCT (6/7-seater)
Rs 21.57 lakh
HTK+ Trims Get Additional Features; HTX (O) Now Offered With ADAS
Moving to the existing variants, Kia says that the HTK+ and HTK+(O) trims have been updated with new features. The former now comes with an electric sunroof as part of the package, while the latter now packs in a panoramic sunroof, LED headlamps and a factory Dash Cam with front and rear cameras. In the HTK+ trim, the sunroof is offered on the turbo-petrol and diesel manual variant - not offered on the diesel AT. Meanwhile, the panoramic sunroof on the HTK+(O) is exclusive to the turbo-petrol, with the diesel getting a standard sunroof.
The other key update is a new HTX(O) A trim level sitting below the previously top-spec HTX+ and the HTX(O) trims. The key feature addition on the new trim level is the Level 2 ADAS kit, which was previously exclusive to the HTX+. The new trim is priced at Rs 19.86 lakh (ex-showroom) and is offered only in turbo-petrol-DCT guise with 6 & 7-seat cabin layouts. This makes it about Rs 46,000 more expensive than the standard HTX(O) and about Rs 1 lakh more affordable than the HTX+.
Variant
Price (ex-showroom)
HTX(O) A 1.5 T-GDI DCT 6/7-seater
Rs 19.86 lakh
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Lexus has launched the latest generation of its executive sedan, the ES, in India, with the sedan being offered with an all-electric drivetrain for the first time. The carmaker says that there will be two powertrains on offer under the hood - the familiar ES 350h strong hybrid and the all-electric ES 500e. The EV is priced at Rs 89.99 lakh (introductory, ex-showroom) and is Lexus' first all-electric model for the Indian market. Prices for the hybrid will be announced at a later date.
The new ES looks to draw design inspiration from the LF-ZC concept, with its edgy looks and sharp body lines. The new ES features a low-seat sharknose design, angular high-set LED DRLs, and main headlamp units sitting just below. The EV features an enclosed grille - the hybrid will feature a small inlet just below the grille - with the bumper featuring a prominent central intake. The heavily sculpted bonnet and black inserts on the bumper add to the sharp design.
In profile, the new ES features a four-door coupe design with a sharp shoulderline rising upwards from the front door and into the windowline at the rear quarter window. The flared rear fenders add to the sedan’s squat stance, while at the rear, a full-width lightbar is the sedan’s most defining design feature.
Compared to the outgoing ES, the new ES follows a minimalist cabin theme with a digital instrument cluster neatly integrated into a hooded binacle and a large 14-inch central touchscreen. The cabin also features ‘hidden’ switches that sit beneath the touchscreen and on the driver’s side, that only light up when the car is turned on.
For now, we will only get the new ES 500e featuring a 75 kWh battery, dual-motor all-wheel drive, developing a peak 338 bhp and a claimed range of up to 580 km on a full charge. The familiar 350h set-up featuring a 2.5-litre petrol engine paired with an electric motor is expected to arrive later in the year.
Lexus says that bookings are now open for the ES 500e in the Indian market, with deliveries set to start from mid-2026.
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Audi India,Mercedes-Benz India and BMW India have become some of the first brands to announce a hike in prices from the start of the new fiscal year. Both European carmakers have said that they will hike prices of their range of cars by up to 2 per cent, citing the fluctuating rupee and rising input costs as factors. Mercedes had previously said that it was considering hiking prices for its range of cars across all quarters of 2026 in a bid to offset the exchange rate fluctuations.
This marks the second price hike for Mercedes-Benz and BMW in 2026, with the company having previously hiked prices on January 1, 2026. Meanwhile, this is Audi’s first price hike in the calendar year.
In a statement, Mercedes-Benz India Vice President, Sales & Marketing Brendon Sissing said, “Starting April 1, we will be implementing a price correction of around 2 per cent across our portfolio. This decision is largely driven by continued forex volatility, particularly the sustained depreciation of the rupee against the euro, along with rising input costs. While we always strive to absorb cost pressures, some price adjustments become necessary to maintain business sustainability.”
In a similarly worded statement, Audi India Brand Director Balbir Singh Dhillon said, “Due to recent rising input costs and currency fluctuations, we are implementing a price adjustment of up to 2 per cent effective from April 01, 2026. We remain committed to minimising the impact of the price hike on our customers.”
Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India, also cited the same reasons in his statement. He said that the “escalating logistics and material costs alongside a depreciating rupee” necessitated the price hike, which will affect both locally assembled and CBU import vehicles. Sister concern, Mini, will also be affected.
Price hikes aside, Mercedes-Benz is set to have another busy year in India in 2026, with the company having confirmed the launch of 12 new or updated models in the Indian market. The carmaker has already launched new variants of the Maybach GLS and EQS SUV so far, with the all-electric CLA sedan set to arrive next year.
BMW too is set for a busy year with plans in place to introduce a range of all-new or updated models across its portfolio. The carmaker recently brought the limited-run M2 CS to the Indian market. Audi, meanwhile, recently launched its first new model for the Indian market, the SQ8.
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Renault India has paused bookings for the hybrid version of the all-new Duster, even before announcing its price in India. The carmaker confirmed that the strong hybrid variant is already sold out for 2026. The update came alongside the announcement of prices for the new-generation Duster. While the hybrid is still some time away from launch – expected around Diwali – it has already seen a significant number of pre-bookings.
Speaking at the unveil, Francisco Hidalgo, Vice President, Renault India, said, “We have seen an overwhelming response to the hybrid powertrain. As of now, we are sold out for this year and are actively working on increasing capacity.”
What stands out is that the hybrid variant has generated this level of interest despite not yet having an official price. Renault says demand is driven largely by urban markets, with around 39 per cent of bookings in metro cities opting for the hybrid version.
For now, Renault has stopped taking fresh orders for the hybrid and plans to reopen bookings closer to its launch. The company is also evaluating ways to increase production to meet the demand.
The new Duster, which marks the return of the nameplate to India, has been launched with introductory prices starting at Rs 10.29 lakh (ex-showroom). It comes with a new design, updated features and multiple powertrain options, including the upcoming hybrid.
Once introduced, the Duster hybrid will join the turbo-petrol variants in a lineup spread across five trims: Authentic, Evolution, Techno, Techno+ and Iconic. Tap here to know what each trim has to offer, along with its price and engine option, respectively.
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Days ahead of its global debut, the new Neue-Klasse BMW i3 has been leaked in what looks to be an official video that has subsequently been pulled down. The video provides an up-close look at the new-gen electric sedan ahead of its March 18 debut.
The new i3 follows the same family design as we saw on the all-new iX3 last year. The headlamps and grille are neatly integrated as part of singular panels with LED lighting elements, providing a radical re-interpretation of BMW’s iconic kidney grille. A low-set central air-dam, flared front fenders, and a sculpted lower bonnet add to i3’s aggressive looks.
In profile, the new i3 looks quite well proportioned with an almost traditional three-box design, with the C-pillar neatly integrating into the rear deck. The wheel arches are filled with large alloy wheels, while a soft shoulder line is visible running the length of the car. The prominent flared rear wheel arches add some substance to the i3’s rear end design, with other notable design elements being a notable integrated spoiler-like boot lip, slim tail lamps and a faux diffuser element on the bumper.
Inside, the cabin looks to be identical to the new iX3, replete with the large hexagonal central touchscreen designed to look angled towards the driver. The electric sedan also gets the edge-to-edge panoramic display at the base of the windshield and the new design steering with vertical spokes. As with the iX3, physical buttons are minimal.
Mechanically, the new i3 will also be underpinned by BMW’s Neue Klasse platform that debuted in the iX3 with the sedan expected to share much of its running gear with its SUV sibling. BMW has also confirmed a hot M variant of the i3 will be arriving shortly after the standard sedan.
Image Source: Wilcoblok/Instagram.
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Renault has launched what is possibly its most important new car in years – the 2026 Renault Duster has arrived, with introductory prices starting at Rs 10.29 lakh for the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol model for bookings made by March 31, 2026. This will rise to Rs 10.49 lakh for customers making bookings from April 1. The new-gen Duster will also be available with a bigger, more powerful 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine, prices for which range from Rs 12.69 lakh to 18.09 lakh (ex-showroom). Prices will be hiked by up to Rs 40,000 for bookings made from April 1, 2026.
Renault has confirmed deliveries of the new Duster will begin by the middle of April, but those looking forward to the Duster E-tech hybrid will have to wait for a few more months, as that will only be launched by Diwali later this year.
New Renault Duster: Design and Dimensions
The new Duster measures in at 4,343 mm in length, 1,813 mm in height, 1,659 mm in width and has a 2,657 mm wheelbase, which falls some way short of the new Tata Sierra's wheelbase. Ground clearance is rated at 212 mm, and the new Duster, in its lightest version, weighs 1,411 kg. Boot space is 518 litres, but folding the rear seats down frees up 1,789 litres of room.
Compared to the new Duster sold overseas, the new Duster for India is built on the Renault Global Modular Platform (RGMP), and has almost nothing in common with the Duster available abroad. It has a redesigned headlight cluster, the Renault lettering on the nose is replaced by Duster lettering, and the front bumper is also different. The new Duster rides on 18-inch alloy wheels, and has arrow-shaped tail-lights connected by an LED light bar.
New Renault Duster: Interior and features
The India-spec new Duster also has practically nothing in common with the Duster sold abroad when it comes to the interior. Features include a 10.1-inch central touchscreen infotainment system, 10.25-inch digital instruments display (7.0-inch on lower-spec models), dual-zone auto climate control, powered and ventilated front seats, Arkamys sound system, panoramic sunroof and a powered tailgate. The new Duster also features built-in Google integration, which will enable the Gemini AI assistant with a future software update.
Buyers will be able to pick from five trim levels - Authentic, Evolution, Techno, Techno+ and Iconic.
New Renault Duster: Engine and transmission options
For now, the new Duster will be available with two turbo-petrol engines: a 1.0-litre, three-cylinder unit that produces 99 bhp and 160 Nm of torque, and a 1.3-litre, four-cylinder unit that develops a peak 158 bhp and 280 Nm of torque. The 1.0-litre engine is available only with a six-speed manual, while the 1.3-litre engine can be had with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed dual-clutch automatic. The 1.0 turbo unit will be offered across all trim levels while the more powerful 1.3 turbo will be offered from the second-from-base Evolution trim
The Duster E-tech hybrid due in Diwali pairs a 1.8-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine (Atkinson cycle) with a 1.4 kWh battery powering two electric motors for a combined power output of 158 bhp and 172 Nm of torque.
New Renault Duster: Rivals
The new Duster enters a fiercely competitive segment, taking on the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Tata Sierra, Maruti Suzuki Victoris, and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder.
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The Renault Duster is set to make its return to the Indian market, with prices slated to be announced today, March 17. First introduced in 2012, the Duster played a key role in popularising the compact SUV segment in India, and its comeback marks a significant re-entry for Renault India.
The carmaker has already unveiled the India-spec version of the new Duster and shared key details ahead of its launch. While the overall design, platform and powertrain options have been outlined, pricing and variant-wise details are set to be revealed today.
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Hero Electric, India’s first electric two-wheeler brand, is headed for liquidation following an order from the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) after efforts to revive the company through the insolvency resolution process failed to produce an approved plan. The NCLT noted that no resolution proposal received the required support from the Committee of Creditors (CoC) under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC).
The insolvency proceedings against Hero Electric began on December 20, 2024, following a petition filed by Metro Tyres Ltd under the IBC. A Committee of Creditors (CoC), comprising financial institutions like Bank of Baroda, South Indian Bank, IDFC First Bank and Kotak Mahindra Bank, among others.
The CoC held multiple meetings and evaluated proposals from companies interested in taking over the business. Expressions of interest were invited from potential investors and several parties reportedly showed interest in acquiring the company. Eventually, two resolution plans were formally submitted for consideration. However, when put to vote, neither of these two resolution plans managed to secure the minimum approval required under the IBC of 66 per cent.
The creditors remained divided over the future course of action, and the CoC failed to reach a consensus within the insolvency resolution timeline. The tribunal has said that continuing the process would not serve any purpose and ordered liquidation of the company under Section 33 (1) (a) of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code.
Hero Electric is India’s first electric two-wheeler brand when the company first launched electric scooters with lead acid batteries in 2007. Although the brand has the “Hero” name, it’s an offshoot of the Munjal family which owns Hero MotoCorp. While Hero MotoCorp’s EV vertical Vida is slowly and steadily growing, India’s first electric scooter brand from the same family is heading for liquidation.
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It started the trend of Compact SUVs in India way back 2012 and now the Renault Duster is set for a grand return on March 17. The French car brand has already taken the wraps off the India-spec Duster and has also revealed some key details about the SUV including the platform it is built on. What is left to know are the prices and the variant details and here’s what you can expect when the SUV is launched on Tuesday.
Renault has already revealed that the new Duster is built on the Global Modular Platform (RGMP) which according to the brand has been designed and engineered with the Indian market in mind. It is scalable which means the company can built models from different segments on this platform. The SUV looks quote boxy with its name written in bold on the front grille. Other highlights are a fair bit of cladding all around along with connected tail lamps.
The cabin gets dual 10 inch screens which are a part of a single unit. Other premium features include, dual zone AC, electric and ventilated front seats along with a panoramic sunroof they’re likely to be seen only in the top variants. The Duster is also one of the fe cars in the segment which will come with 17 Level 2 ADAS function making it a safer bet out on the roads.
Three engine options have been conformed by Renault though only two will be launched now while the 1.8 litre Petrol with a hybrid setup will be launched later in the year. For now the first option will be 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine which makes 99 bhp and 160 Nm and comes with a manual transmission option. A 1.3-litre turbo Petrol will also get an automatic gearbox and will deliver higher numbers (158 bhp and 280 Nm). This engine could be seen in the higher variants of the SUV. Renault could launch the Duster at an introductory starting price of Rs. 9.99 lakh, ex-showroom.
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Ducati India has launched its first-ever motocross bike, the Ducati Desmo450 MX in India, with introductory prices beginning at Rs. 17,23,600 (Ex-showroom). According to Ducati, the Desmo450 MX is designed to deliver thrilling performance to both professional riders and amateur enthusiasts across India. Although, like many motocross bikes on sale, the Desmo450 MX is not street legal and can only be used in close circuits.
As the name suggests, the Desmo450 MX is built around a 449.6 cc, single-cylinder engine with Desmodromic distribution, a feature unique in the motocross landscape. Ducati says the Desmodromic valve system allows for an exceptionally broad power delivery, combining strong torque at low-to-medium revs with remarkable extension.
The Desmo450 MX also features a sophisticated traction control system, the first in motocross bike to feature this system, which accurately measures rear wheel slip and intelligently activates only when needed, ensuring it does not interfere with the bike’s performance.
The 450 cc, single-cylinder engine puts out 64 bhp at 9,400 rpm and 53.5 Nm of peak torque at 7,500 rpm. The engine utilises titanium intake valves and steel exhaust valves and has a high rev limit of 11,900 rpm. The engine is paired to a five-speed gearbox and is equipped with a quickshifter. It is mounted on a lightweight aluminium frame with minimum welds to improve strength, rigidity and agility.
With a 21-inch front wheel and 19-inch rear wheel, shod with Pirelli Scorpion MX32 mid-soft tyres, suspension hardware consists of a Showa 49 mm upside down fork and a rear monoshock, both fully adjustable, while braking hardware comprises of a 260 mm front disc and a 240 mm rear disc.
The introductory ex-showroom price of over Rs. 17.24 lakh makes the Desmo450 MX an expensive toy, and it will be available only at four select Ducati dealerships across India – Ducati New Delhi, Ducati VFM Bengaluru, Ducati Chennai and Ducati Pune. Bookings are now open and deliveries are scheduled to begin by the end of March 2026.
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