Mahindra Scorpio-N Z8L Now Gets Level 2 ADAS Tech; Prices Start From Rs 21.35 Lakh

Mahindra has updated the Scorpio-N with the addition of Level 2 ADAS functions on the top Z8L trim level as well as a new Z8T variant. Prices for the new Z8T trim start at Rs 20.29 lakh (ex-showroom) while prices for the updated Z8 L now start at Rs 21.35 lakh (ex-showroom). The ADAS features will be offered across both manual and automatic variants of the SUV. 

 

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

Mahindra Scorpio-N Z8L ADAS Launched 

 

The biggest update to the Scorpio is without a doubt the addition of Level 2 ADAS tech to the top Z8L variants. The additional of the tech means that the top trim level is now dearer by up to Rs 48,000. 

The full prices for the updated Scorpio-N Z8L with ADAS tech is as follows: 

Variant	Old Price	New Price	Difference
Petrol MT 7-seater	Rs 20.89 lakh	Rs 21.35 lakh	Rs 46,000
Petrol MT 6-seater	Rs 21.13 lakh	Rs 21.60 lakh	Rs 47,000
Petrol AT 7-seater	Rs 22.30 lakh	Rs 22.77 lakh	Rs 47,000
Petrol AT 6-seater	Rs 22.49 lakh	Rs 22.96 lakh	Rs 47,000
Diesel MT 7-seater	Rs 21.28 lakh	Rs 21.75 lakh	Rs 47,000
Diesel MT 6-seater	Rs 21.65 lakh	Rs 22.12 lakh	Rs 47,000
Diesel AT 7-seater	Rs 22.77 lakh	Rs 23.24 lakh	Rs 47,000
Diesel AT 6-seater	Rs 23.00 lakh	Rs 23.48 lakh	Rs 48,000
Diesel MT 4x4 7-seater	Rs 23.39 lakh	Rs 23.86 lakh	Rs 47,000
Diesel AT 4x4 7-seater	Rs 24.95 lakh	Rs 25.42 lakh	Rs 47,000

 

Under the Level 2 ADAS suite, the Scorpio-N now gets active safety system such as forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop & go functionality, smart pilot assist, lane keep assist, lane departure warning and traffic sign recognition. Mahindra says that the Scorpio-N is also its first internal combustion SUV to get a new Speed Limit Assist and a Front Vehicle Start Alert function as part of the ADAS suite.

 

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

The Speed Limit Alert provides active warning based on the applicable speed limit identified by the traffic sign recognition function. The system also works in conjunction with adaptive cruise control to match the vehicle’s speed to the applicable speed limit. The Front Vehicle Start Alert meanwhile provides auditory and haptic warning when a stationary vehicle in front of the SUV pulls away when stuck in traffic. Mahindra says that the function is aimed at improving driver awareness. 

 

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

New Scorpio-N Z8T Launched At Rs 20.29 lakh

 

Also joining the line-up is a new Z8T trim level that slots in between the Z8 and the Z8L. As with the Z8 trim, the Z8T variants get a 7-seat configuration as standard and can be had with both petrol and diesel engine options replete with manual and automatic gearboxes and optional 4WD with the diesel powertrain. 

The prices of the new Scorpio-N Z8T are as follows: 

Variant	Price (ex-showroom)
Petrol MT	Rs 20.29 lakh
Petrol AT	Rs 21.71 lakh
Diesel MT 2WD	Rs 20.69 lakh
Diesel AT 2WD	Rs 22.18 lakh
Diesel MT 4x4	Rs 22.80 lakh
Diesel AT 4x4	Rs 24.36 lakh

 

Compared to the Z8, the Z8T is dearer by between Rs 83,000 to Rs 1.13 lakh depending on the powertrain.

 

Also Read: Mahindra Scorpio-N Z4 Automatic Variants Launched; Prices Start At Rs 17.39 Lakh
 

In terms of features, the Z8T packs in tech such as a 12-speaker Sony sound system, front parking sensors and a front facing camera, 6-way power adjustable driver seat, electronic parking brake, ventilated front seats and an auto-dimming internal rear-view mirror among others. The variant also gets 18-inch alloy wheels. 

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Mercedes-AMG GT 63, GT 63 Pro Launched In India: Prices Start At Rs 3 Crore

Mercedes-Benz India has expanded its performance division lineup with the launch of the new AMG GT 63 and GT 63 Pro. The former is priced at Rs 3 crore, while the latter is priced at Rs 3.65 crore (ex-showroom). Both models – unveiled globally nearly two years ago – land on our shores as Completely Built Units (CBUs). Built on the same platform as the Mercedes-AMG SL 55, the two-door performance models are powered by Mercedes-AMG’s well-known 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, also found in the G 63 SUV.

 

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

 

Mercedes-AMG GT 63 

Now in its second generation, the new GT 63 carries forward the coupe silhouette of its predecessor, featuring a long bonnet, a flowing roofline, and a sleek rear end. Updates include a more pronounced Panamericana grille, redesigned swept-back headlamps, and slim LED tail-lamps that mirror the design of the previous model. The new GT 63 is also larger than before, measuring 4,728 mm in length, 1,984 mm in width, and 1,354 mm in height, with a 70 mm increase in wheelbase, now standing at 2,700 mm. 

 

The GT 63 will be offered in standard exterior colour choices such as yellow, silver, grey, blue, and black. Selecting the Manufaktur options adds bright red, bright white, solid grey and four other ‘Magno’ shades to the palette. For the interior, colour schemes include full black, red, grey, and brown, combined with black accents. Four additional packages – Chrome, Carbon Aerodynamics and Night – are offered as optional extras. 
 

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

 

The additional stretch in overall size translates to a more spacious cabin and increased cargo capacity. It also features a 2+2 seating layout, replacing the previous two-seater configuration. As for the interior, the cabin is equipped with an 11.6-inch vertical-oriented touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital driver display, and a suite of features including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Nappa leather upholstery, a Burmester surround sound system, wireless charging, ambient lighting, and dual-zone climate control.  

 

Powering the GT 63 is the ubiquitous twin-turbo V8 that punches out 578 bhp and 800 Nm of torque, mated to a 9-speed automatic gearbox. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph in just 3.2 seconds and reaches a top speed of 315 kmph. It also features four-wheel steering, with the rear axle turning up to 2.5 degrees. 

 

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

 

Mercedes-AMG GT 63 Pro  

The AMG GT 63 Pro, meanwhile, is positioned as the more performance-oriented version. While it shares the same engine, it has been tuned to deliver 603 bhp and 850 Nm of torque. The added performance helps it achieve a 0 to 200 kmph time of 10.9 seconds, which is half a second quicker than the standard model. 0-100 kmph is claimed to be achieved in 3.1 seconds while the top speed is rated to be 317 kmph.  

 

The GT 63 Pro comes standard with the AMG Aerodynamics Package, AMG Night Package II, and AMG Carbon Exterior Package. These are available on the standard model as well, but only as optional, paid upgrades.

The GT 63 Pro also receives several mechanical and aerodynamic upgrades. These include improved engine cooling with additional radiators, ceramic composite brakes with massive 420 mm front discs, lighter wheels, and high-performance tyres. The exterior also gets a more aggressive body kit, including a revised front bumper, a carbon-fibre rear wing, new air deflectors, side sill extensions, and a rear diffuser. These elements reduce front lift by 30 kg and increase rear downforce by 15 kg.  

 

The new AMG GT models go up against rivals such as the Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS, which is currently priced at Rs 2.84 crore (ex-showroom). Deliveries of the GT 63 are slated to commence in the fourth quarter of 2025, with the GT 63 Pro set to follow in the first quarter of 2026.
 

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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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