Kia Carens Clavis EV Debut On July 15

Kia India has confirmed that the all-electric derivative of the Carens Clavis will be unveiled on July 15, 2025. The EV, spotted testing on Indian roads on multiple occasions, will be Kia’s first mass market EV for the Indian market, with a second – likely based on the Syros – also in the works.

 

Also read: Kia Carens Clavis EV Set To Debut In India In July
 

As seen from images of the test mules, the Carens Clavis EV will only get minor cosmetic differences over its internal combustion sibling, with a majority of changes to be focused on the nose. These are expected to include the positioning of a charging port on the nose, along with the use of active air flaps on the central air dam at the base of the bumper. The MPV could also feature a lightbar at the base of the bonnet, replacing the chrome strip on the current model. The EV is also expected to get its own unique alloy wheel designs.

Also Read: Kia Carens EV Spied Testing In India Ahead Of Debut

 

The cabin too is unlikely to get any notable differences with the Carens Clavis EV expected to retain tech such as the twin 12.25-inch digital displays atop the dashboard, ventilated front seats, ambient lighting, a dual-view dashcam, an air purifier, a Bose audio system and even Level 2 ADAS tech.

Cabin design is unlikely to change compared to the internal combustion Carens Clavis (pictured).

 

Also read: Kia EV2 Spied In Near-Production Form Ahead Of 2026 Debut 
 

Moving to the powertrain, while few details are available, the Carens Clavis EV is likely to share its powertrain options with the Hyundai Creta Electric. The Creta EV is offered with a choice of battery packs - a standard 42 kWh and a long-range 51.4 kWh unit, and has an ARAI-certified range of up to 473 km.

 

Also read: 2025 Kia Carens Clavis Review: Big Name, Big On Features!
 

The Carens Clavis will be the first mass-market seven-seater electric MPV in the market and will also be Kia’s most affordable EV in India to date. 

 

Spy image source

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New 1341 bhp+ Mercedes-AMG GT XX Concept Previews AMG’s First Dedicated EV

Mercedes-Benz's performance division, AMG, has previewed its first-ever bespoke electric high-performance sedan in the form of the new AMG GT XX Concept. Previewing the all-electric successor to the AMG GT 4-Door Coupe, the AMG GT XX is underpinned by the new AMG.EA platform that will form the basis for future AMG-specific EVs. The concept takes the shape of a low-slung four-door coupe and debuts a host of new tech, though the design could best be described as polarising.

 

Also read: Mercedes-Benz EQS 580 Celebration Edition Launched At Rs 1.30 Crore
 

Up front, the concept wears the AMG Panamericana grille with an illuminated surround and lighting elements incorporated within the unit. The grille is positioned near the base of the front bumper, with a prominent splitter sitting below.  The nose rises upwards from the grille into swept-back headlamps before plateauing over the wheel arches and flowing into the A pillar. The bonnet features a large horseshoe vent for improving aerodynamics.

 

Also read: Mercedes-AMG G 63 Collector’s Edition Launched At Rs 4.3 Crore; Limited To 30 Units
 

Down the sides, the AMG GT XX features flush-sitting door handles and a receding roofline that flows down to the lip of the boot lid. The rear haunches are quite prominent as well, though the highlight bit of tech is the use of special electroluminescent paint under the doors. Mercedes says that the strip comprises multiple conductive and insulating layers and lights up when current is passed through it. Mercedes says that the strip acts as a point of communication between the car and people around it, such as lighting up in different intensities as the vehicle charges. 

Another highlight of the vehicle is the unique wheels, which feature active carbon fibre flaps that open and close to improve aerodynamics or assist in cooling the brakes. Mercedes claims a drag coefficient of 0.198.

 

Also read: New Mercedes-Benz CLA LWB Debuts At Auto Shanghai 2025; Gets A 75 mm Longer Wheelbase
 

At the rear, the concept lacks a rear windscreen, though the standout design element is the display nestled between the triple pod tail lamps. The screen comprises 700 sRGB LEDs and can be used to display various information, such as the vehicle charge or animations.

Moving to the cabin, the GT XX Concept features a minimalist design with a pair of displays on the dashboard. The highlight of the cabin, however, is the use of alternative materials, with Mercedes saying it has made extensive use of leather and silk alternatives derived from biotechnology. The seat shells are made from carbon fibre and feature 3D printed pads that Mercedes says are tailored for each user.

 

Also read: Mercedes-Benz's Ultra-Luxurious Vision V Concept Previews Next-Gen V-Class MPV
 

Central to the new AMG GT XX Concept is its platform, the new AMG.EA that will go on to underpin future AMG models. The skateboard platform supports an 800V architecture and in the GT XX features a new-gen High Performance Battery capable of being charged at rates of up to 850 kW without adverse effects and adding up to 400 km of range in as little as 5 mins. Mercedes says it has achieved this by redesigning the individual cells in the battery pack for more efficient thermal management, as well as with the use of a direct battery cooling system that pumps nonconductive oil around the cells to help maintain optimum temperatures at all times.

Also Read: Limited-Run Mercedes-Benz G-Class Pays Homage To The Original G-Wagen
 

The concept also marks the debut of Mercedes’ new-gen Axial flux electric motors that the brand has confirmed will go into production in AMG EVs from 2026. The new-gen electric motors are claimed to have a power density up to three times greater than the current electric motors while also weighing up to two-thirds less. The AMG GT XX uses three axial flux motors, one on the front axle and two on the rear, to develop over 1341 bhp and give the car a top speed north of 360 kmph. 

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The Koenigsegg Sadair's Spear Is A 1,603 bhp Road-Legal Track-Weapon

Koenigsegg has just unveiled its latest limited-production hypercar, which, despite its rather mind-boggling specifications, still manages to remain road-legal. The name? Sadair's Spear. While the Jesko Absolut was already a track-focused version, the Sadair's Spear, based on the former, remarkably gets an even greater reduction in weight and advanced aerodynamics. In fact, it has also managed to extract more power out of the company's in-house built 5.0-litre twin-turbo V8. Limited to a mere 30 units, Koenigsegg has announced that all units, unsurprisingly, were instantly sold out upon unveiling.

 

Also Read: The Porsche 963 RSP Is A Street-Legal WEC Racecar
 

‘Sadair's Spear’ is a name deeply personal to the company’s founder Christian Von Koenigsegg, as it is the name of the racehorse that his father, Jesko von Koenigsegg, an equestrian, rode in his final race in 1976. The company also went on to state that the Sadair's Spear during testing at the Gotland Ring, managed to beat the Jesko Absolut’s time by 1.1 seconds. 

 

Also Read: McLaren W1 Hybrid Hypercar Unveiled: Most Powerful McLaren Road Car Ever
 

 

As stated earlier, the main focus, with the Sadair’s Spear, has been to enhance its aerodynamics. The list of upgrades to the hypercar includes a double-blade rear wing, larger canards, and a revised front hood vent with an integrated Gurney flap. Additionally, the car also gets an extended rear end to increase aerodynamic efficiency. Featuring a 1:1 power-to-weight ratio, a signature characteristic of many Koenigsegg hypercars, the Sadair's Spear’s weight is down by 35 kg by the integration of more carbon fibre parts, carbon ceramic brakes, and an upgraded suspension setup with lightweight springs and Koenigsegg-designed Triplex dampers. 

 

Also Read: New Aston Martin Vanquish Unveiled; Retains V12, Has 345 KMPH Top Speed
 

On the powertrain front, the 5.0-litre twin-turbo V8 in the Sadair's Spear churns out 1,282 bhp on regular unleaded fuel, and up to 1,603 bhp using E85 fuel. The increase in power mainly comes from an engine calibration update and redesigned front air intakes for better airflow. The engine continues to be mated to the flywheel-free Light Speed Transmission (LST) and is capable of revving up to 8,500 rpm.
 

Additionally, Koenigsegg has also given a few major upgrades to the car’s interior. These include a lightweight center console, redesigned carbon fibre seats, and three-point seatbelts that can be optionally upgraded to a 6-point racing harness. Other features on the car include a steering-mounted SmartCluster display, USB connectivity, phone charging, and parking assist.
 

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488 Bhp Nissan Patrol Nismo Revealed

Nissan has revealed the most powerful version of its flagship full-size SUV, the Patrol. The latest Patrol Nismo comes with updated suspension, aggressive styling, and other upgrades. Finished in the performance division’s signature Stealth Grey, it retains the familiar VR35DDTT engine found in the standard model, now tuned for improved performance.  

 

Also Read: Upcoming Nissan SUVs Won’t Get A Diesel Engine; Duster-Based 5-Seat SUV Confirmed For Mid-2026 Launch

 

The tuned version of the 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine now makes 488 bhp – an increase of 70 bhp – at 5,600 rpm, along with a peak torque of 700 Nm at 3,600 rpm. The powertrain is paired with a recalibrated 9-speed automatic transmission, complemented by paddle shifters. Additionally, it delivers a more prominent exhaust note, enhanced by the Active Sound Enhancement (ASE) system, which amplifies the note inside the cabin.  

 

Also Read: Nissan’s Entry-Level MPV Confirmed For India Launch Early In 2026

 

At the front, the Patrol Nismo features a V-Motion grille with redesigned vertical and horizontal accents, framed by a honeycomb mesh which is claimed to improve airflow to the radiator. At the rear, an extended spoiler shifts the air separation point to improve aerodynamic stability. The SUV rides on 22-inch forged aluminium alloy wheels, shod with high-performance tyres.  

 

Coming to the interior, the cabin has a black and red theme. The dashboard, seats, steering wheel, and door panels are accented with contrast stitching, while the Nismo nameplate sits on the headrests. Additional bits include red seat belts, a red engine start/stop button, carbon fiber-inspired trim, and metallic accelerator and brake pedals. 

 

Also Read: Nissan Magnite Now Offered With CNG Kit For An Additional Rs 74,999

 

Nissan also states the new Patrol Nismo has undergone a suspension overhaul to support the increased power and deliver sharper handling. It is equipped with Nismo-tuned E-Dampers, which automatically adjust damping levels in real time based on road conditions and driver inputs. 

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MG Motor India Announces Price Hike Of 1.5 Per Cent Starting July 1

JSW MG Motor India has announced a mid-year price increase of up to 1.5 per cent. The latest revision will come into effect starting July 1, 2025, and will impact select models within the British automaker’s Indian lineup. 

  

According to MG, the latest price correction is driven by rising input costs and broader macroeconomic pressures affecting the auto industry. The company stated that the revision is necessary to partially offset the impact of increased manufacturing and supply chain expenses. 

 

Also Read: MG Windsor EV 52.9 kWh Now More Affordable: Exclusive Pro Trim Launched At Rs 17.25 Lakh

 

This is the second price adjustment from MG Motor within a span of seven months. The company had earlier implemented a price hike of up to 3 per cent across its entire range in December 2024, ahead of the new calendar year, similar to other automakers in the Indian market. 

  

MG’s current portfolio in India includes models such as the Astor, Hector, Gloster, and three electric vehicles: Comet EV, ZS EV and the Windsor EV. The company has not specified which exact models will be affected by the latest hike. 

 

Also Read: India-bound MG S5 EV (ZS EV Replacement) Scores 5 Stars In Euro NCAP

JSW MG Motor India recently announced a price cut on all variants of its ZS EV. Marking its sixth year in India, the automaker introduced this limited-period discount to celebrate the milestone. Moreover, the Windsor EV is the brand’s latest launch in India, and with it, the company introduced Battery as a Service (BaaS) module. 
 

Looking ahead, the carmaker is now gearing up for the launch of two electric vehicles in India, the MG M9 MPV and the Cyberster roadster.

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ReiseMoto Launches Helden Helmet With ISI, DOT, and ECE Certification At Rs 3,400

ReiseMoto has added a new helmet to its existing riding gear range, called the Reise Helden, designed specifically for the everyday Indian rider seeking a premium experience at an accessible price. Priced at Rs 3,499, the Helden enters the mass premium segment, delivering a combination of safety, comfort, and connectivity.

 

Also Read: Reise Moto Launches Riding Gear In Association With SPIDI

Let’s talk about safety first, the Reise Helden helmet is certified under ISI, DOT, and ECE safety standards, offering peace of mind even for riders on a tight budget. The helmet has been engineered and built using an advanced polycarbonate composite shell. Striking a balance between strength and lightweight construction, it makes for an ideal consideration for both, daily commutes and weekend rides.

 

Moving to the features, the Helden comes with a wide-angle anti-scratch visor for enhanced road visibility, a hypoallergenic interior with removable and washable padding, and an aerodynamic design with strategic vents for maximum airflow. Additionally, it comes equipped with integrated Bluetooth pockets for intercom devices.

 

Also Read: Reise TraceRad Radial Tyres Launched In India

The Helden helmet is now available online on the Reise official website, and ReiseMoto retail and partner stores. The Helden helmet range is available in three sizes – M (57-58), L (59-60) and XL (61-62) and in five colour options – Black Orange, Black Matte, Black Grey, Black Red and Black Gloss.

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Mahindra XUV700 Facelift To Feature New Headlights, Latest Spy Shots Reveal

The Mahindra XUV 700 facelift has been spied testing yet again, though this time around, with new, production-spec headlights. Additionally, a second video doing the rounds online suggests that the facelifted SUV is set to adopt the triple screen layout first seen on Mahindra’s XEV 9e.

 

Also read: Mahindra Scorpio N Set To Get ADAS Soon? Teaser Video Goes Live Ahead Of Launch
 

Starting with the exterior, while previous spy shots showed the test mule wearing pre-production lights, the latest images provide a look at the final headlights. Compared to the current LED reflector units, the new headlights feature twin projector elements, suggesting that they could offer better illumination and throw. The headlight design is also expected to be more conventional than the current model’s - missing the DRL extensions flowing into the bumper. The new LED daytime running lights, however, are not visible.

The new images also provide a look at the model’s alloy wheels, revealing two different designs and likely two different sizes. Both feature multispoke designs.

 

Also Read: Mahindra Thar Facelift Spied With Thar Roxx-Derived Fascia, Updated Cabin

 

Moving to the interior, new videos doing the rounds online suggest that the 700 will receive a notable infotainment upgrade in the form of a third display for the co-driver. The unit looks to be part of a large panoramic display similar to the unit in the XEV 9e, hinting at sharing of technology between Mahindra’s all-new EVs and internal combustion models. Interestingly, the triple-screen layout is also set to be present in the upcoming XUV.e8 - essentially the XUV 700’s EV sibling. Spy shots of the EV have revealed that it will share much of its looks with the ICE SUV, though with a fascia similar to the XEV 9e. 

Also read: Mahindra XUV700 Facelift Spied Testing For The First Time; Could Be Rebadged XUV 7XO
 

On the powertrain front, the facelifted XUV700 is expected to carry over the existing pair of petrol and diesel engines, though Mahindra could consider introducing hybrid powertrain options for its flagship internal combustion SUV. As before, expect gearbox options to include both manual and automatic transmissions, with the diesel likely to continue offering an all-wheel drive option.

 

The facelifted XUV 700 is expected to arrive in India sometime in 2026 and could be rebadged the XUV 7XO in line with the smaller XUV 3XO. 

 

Image Source: 1, 2

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Lexus IS 500 Ultimate Edition Is A Fitting V8 Swansong

Over the years, the Lexus IS has carved a niche for itself in the rear-wheel-drive sports sedan segment, and in its latest — and final — V8 hurrah, Lexus has pulled no punches. Say hello to the Lexus IS 500 Ultimate Edition, a limited-production swan song that celebrates Japan’s last bow to the naturally aspirated V8s as we know it. 

 

Also read: Lexus LM 350h Bookings Reopen In India

This isn't just another special edition, for those who remember the visceral pull of a naturally aspirated V8 and the tactile joy of analogue engineering, the IS 500 Ultimate Edition might just be your last chance to relive that magic. Under the hood, it’s business as usual — in the best way possible. The 5.0-litre 2UR-GSE naturally aspirated V8, paired with an 8-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission, continues to deliver its 472-horsepower soundtrack to the rear wheels only. 

 

Also Read: Lexus NX 350h vs Mercedes-Benz EQB 350: Luxury Electric or Luxury Hybrid?

Wearing the unique paint job called “Wind”, this last edition also gets upgraded Brembo six-piston calliper brakes upfront, finished in red, and paired with large 380mm ventilated discs. There’s also the special-looking 19-inch forged BBS alloys dipped in matte black. On the inside, there’s a new drama in the form of a colour theme of ‘Circuit’ red and black, with seats trimmed in a combination of NuLuxe and Ultrasuede. There’s also the LFA-inspired steering wheel and shift knob finished in dimple-textured genuine leather. Lastly, there are the red seatbelts with a serialized badge that reminds you that this is not the ordinary IS. 

Engineered and fine-tuned at Shimoyama, the IS 500 Ultimate Edition will go on sale in the fall of this year (between September and December). Make no mistake, this is more than a collector’s edition – as it's limited to just 500 units – it’s the last sports sedan with a naturally aspirated V8 and we hope every one of those limited-run units counts. So if you’re in North America and your garage has one last spot for a V8-powered sports sedan, the Ultimate Edition may well be your fitting and final opportunity.

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Toyota Land Cruiser Prado Goes Hybrid: Gets 48V System With 2.8 Diesel

Toyota has introduced a 48-volt mild-hybrid system for the Land Cruiser Prado in the European market. The Prado in this avatar incorporates the same hybrid-assisted 2.8-litre diesel engine used in the mild-hybrid version of the Toyota Hilux, which is available globally and the recently launched Fortuner Neo Drive in India. This comes close on the heels of introducing the hybrid powertrain to the larger Land Cruiser 300 Series in select markets, including the Middle East.

 

Also Read: New Toyota Land Cruiser Hybrid Is The Most Powerful LC300 Yet

 

Contrary to Toyota’s full hybrid systems, the 48V mild-hybrid setup is more compact, with Toyota mentioning it integrates with existing diesel powertrains seamlessly. The hybrid system includes three primary components: an electric motor-generator, a 48V lithium-ion battery, and a DC-DC converter.  

 

The motor-generator replaces the alternator and is driven by the engine to charge the battery. It also recovers energy during deceleration and engine braking, contributing to functions such as stop-start operation and assisting with acceleration.  The motor-generator is mounted high on the engine, allowing the vehicle to maintain a 700 mm water-wading depth at low speeds. 

 

Also Read: New Toyota Camry: 3 Reasons To Buy It, 3 Reasons You Might Want To Avoid

 

Toyota says that one of the benefits of the 48V system is improved engine start-stop responsiveness. Since the motor-generator remains connected at all times, restarts after engine shutdown are faster. Moreover, it can also be customised via the vehicle's driver’s display, with options for "Normal" or "Long" stop durations.  

  

The hybrid battery features 13 cells – a total capacity of 4.3Ah – and weighs 7.6 kg. Compact in design, it fits beneath a restructured rear deck. When fully charged, it can supplement the powertrain with an additional 16 bhp and 65 Nm of torque during initial acceleration. 

 

Also Read: Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder Long Term Review: Introduction

 

Toyota has confirmed that all Land Cruiser Prado models sold in Europe will come standard with this new 48V mild-hybrid system. 

 

As mentioned earlier, Toyota India recently launched the Fortuner NeoDrive mild-hybrid in India. Priced at Rs 44.72 lakh (Rs 50.09 lakh for the Legender, ex-showroom), the Fortuner NeoDrive is equipped with the same 48-volt mild-hybrid system, paired with the ubiquitous 2.8-litre, four-cylinder diesel engine. 

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Tata Harrier EV Secures Five-Star Rating In Bharat NCAP Crash Tests

A day after revealing variant-wise prices for the single-motor model, Tata Motors has received yet another boost in the form of a five-star Bharat NCAP rating for the just-launched Tata Harrier EV. The eighth Tata passenger vehicle to be tested by the safety watchdog since its inception, the Harrier EV secured five stars for both adult as well as child occupant protection, registering the highest score for adult occupant protection for a Tata model till date in the process. For the tests, Tata Motors submitted the Empowered+ 75 kWh single-motor and Empowered+ 75 kWh dual-motor models, which are the heaviest in the line-up, at 2,336 kg.

 

Also Read: Tata Harrier EV RWD Prices Range From Rs 21.49 Lakh To Rs 27.49 Lakh; Offered In Three Trim Levels

 

Tata Harrier EV: Adult occupant protection

The Harrier EV managed a perfect score of 32 points out of a total of 32 points for adult occupant protection. Bagging 16 points apiece in the frontal offset deformable barrier crash test as well as the side movable barrier crash test, the Harrier EV has outdone its diesel-engine twin, which managed an adult occupant protection score of 30.08 points. What’s also interesting is this adult occupant protection score matches that of the Mahindra XEV 9e, the closest rival to the Harrier EV.  

 

The test sheet revealed both the driver as well as front passenger test dummies had good protection in the frontal, side movable barrier, and the side pole impact tests. 

 

 

Also Read: Tata Harrier EV Off-Road Experience: How Capable Is Tata’s AWD Electric SUV?

 

Tata Harrier EV: Child occupant protection

The Harrier EV also impressed in the child occupant protection department, with a total score of 45 points out of a total of 49 – identical, once again, to the XEV 9e’s score. Both 18-month-old and 3-year-old test dummies were installed in i-Size child seats, in the rear seat of the SUV, facing rearwards. The Harrier EV scored 24 out of 24 points in the dynamic test and 12 out of 12 points in the child restraint system installation, only dropping points in the vehicle assessment department, with 9 points out of a total of 13.

 

Tata Harrier EV: Safety equipment and price

The Harrier EV, as standard, comes with six airbags (seven on the top-spec model), electronic stability programme (ESP), traction control, tyre pressure monitoring and disc brakes for all four wheels. Top-spec models also feature Level 2 advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

 

Tata Motors has revealed introductory prices for the Harrier EV single-motor, which range from Rs 21.49 lakh to Rs 27.49 lakh (ex-showroom). Prices for the dual-motor Harrier EV will be announced on June 27. Bookings open on July 2.

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Updated TVS Apache RTR 160 2V, 180 2V Teased Ahead Of Launch

TVS Motor Company has released a new teaser on its social media handles, suggesting the imminent launch of a motorcycle. While the teaser only reveals an illuminated DRL (Daytime Running Light), it is widely believed to be linked to refreshed versions of the Apache RTR 160 2V and Apache RTR 180 2V. These models have been part of TVS' lineup for several years with minimal changes over time. The upcoming update could mark a more significant revision, at least cosmetically. 
 
Expected updates for the 2025 iterations include a redesigned LED headlight and daytime running lights. Additionally, new colour options may be introduced as well. Moreover, the top-end variant could possibly receive better instrumentation and an upgraded suspension system, possibly featuring an upside-down (USD) fork, which has been a staple upgrade in the latest TVS’ motorcycles.  

 

Also Read: 2025 TVS Apache RTR 200 4V Launched At Rs 1.54 Lakh; Gets USD Fork, New Graphics

 

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TVS has recently been rolling out updates across its range to meet the new OBD-2B emission norms and adding new features for its machines. The Apache RR 310 and the RTR 200 4V are the latest examples of this approach, with the latter now equipped with a 37 mm gold-finished USD fork as part of its latest update. 

 

Also Read: 2025 TVS Apache RR310 Launched At Rs 2.78 Lakh; Gets New Features And Livery
 
On the powertrain front, the current Apache RTR 160 2V is powered by a 160 cc single-cylinder engine that produces 15.8 bhp and 13.85 Nm of torque. The RTR 180 2V, with its 178 cc engine, makes 16.8 bhp and 15.5 Nm. Significant changes to the engine specifications are not expected, apart from compliance changes to meet the updated emission standards. 

 

The current RTR 160 2V is priced between Rs 1.21 lakh and Rs 1.31 lakh, while the RTR 180 2V is priced at Rs 1.35 lakh. Expect prices to go up marginally. All prices mentioned are ex-showroom. 

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