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Hyundai Creta has topped the car sales charts in India for the third time this year. The Korean carmaker sold 15,786 units of the SUV in June making it the highest selling car in the country. It bounced back strongly after slipping to fourth place in May when Maruti Suzuki Dzire was the bestseller. Before this, the Creta had topped the sales charts in March and April too. Additionally, it has also become the highest selling SUV in the just concluded first half of the year (January to June).
Tarun Garg, Whole-Time Director and Chief Operating Officer, Hyundai Motor India Ltd., said, “Becoming the best-selling model in June 2025, exactly as it completes 10 years in the country, is a testament to the love and trust that Indian customers have placed in the brand. Infact Hyundai Creta has been the highest-selling mid-size SUV in the country every completed year since its launch in 2015."
Since it was first launched in 2015, Hyundai has sold over 12 lakh units of the Creta in the market over two generations. It has been dominating a tough segment with several worthy contenders ever since. An updated model of the SUV was launched in early 2024 while the brand introduced its electric version in January this year.
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A little over five years since the unveiling of the Roma, Ferrari has now unveiled its successor, the Amalfi. Essentially an upgrade to the Roma, the Amalfi gets some noticeable design updates inside and out along with upgrades under the skin liberating more power and offering improved performance.
Starting with the looks, the Amalfi drops the body coloured cheesegrater grille of the Roma, instead featuring new sleeker headlamps connected by a slim grille. The bumper too looks a lot cleaner with a wide air dam while the splitter at the bottom also appear more prominent. Additionally, the bonnet design has also been revamped with the power bulge a lot smoother than on the Roma.
In profile, the Amalfi retains the sleek proportions of the Roma with its elongated bonnet, coupe roofline and prominent rear haunch. The more notable design updates come at the rear where the Amalfi gets a new active rear spoiler atop the rear lip, slightly lower set slit-like tail lamps and a cleaner looking rear bumper. The quad tip exhaust and diffuser element at the base of the bumper accentuates the Amalfi’s sporting pedigree.
Moving to the cabin, the Amalfi gets some notable design updates over its predecessor. The biggest change is that Ferrari has dropped the high-set floating centre console with the high-set portrait-oriented touchscreen replaced by a landscape display sitting lower down. The twin-cockpit design of the dashboard is retained with the driver getting a large digital instrument cluster flanked by air-con vents and a majority of the driver-centric control surfaces littered across the steering. Speaking of the steering, the Amalfi now features actual physical buttons for the audio and phone controls as well as the start-stop button – compared to the touch-sensitive controls of its predecessor.
The co-driver also gets two dedicated air-con vents with the option for a dedicated third display for personalised infotainment.
Focusing on the powertrain, the Amalfi retains the twin-turbo V8 though updates to the unit means that it now produces 631 bhp and 760 Nm – up from the Roma’s 620 bhp. Upgrades to the engine include tweaks to the turbochargers, a new lightweight crankshaft and a revised engine block that has also helped reduce weight. Power is sent to the rear wheels via an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox with Ferrari claiming a 0-100 kmph time of 3.3 seconds and a 0-200 kmph time of 9 seconds – 0.1 sec and 0.3 sec faster than the Roma. Ferrari says that the Amalfi also gets a retuned steering, a new brake-by-wire system and a new ABS Evo control unit to offer sharper dynamics.
The Amalfi is expected to go on sale starting from 2026 and could spawn a convertible down the road that would replace the Roma Spider that for now looks set to soldier on.
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Tata Motors has opened bookings for its latest all-electric offering, the Harrier EV in India. The booking amount for the EV is set at Rs 21,000, with deliveries set to begin later this month. Launched recently, the prices for the Harrier EV range from Rs 21.49 lakh to Rs 29.74 lakh (ex-showroom, charger prices not included). The SUV is the largest all-electric vehicle from the manufacturer yet, and the only one to feature a dual electric motor powertrain setup.
On the feature front, the Harrier EV will pack in a panoramic sunroof, multi-zone climate control, level 2 ADAS tech, powered and ventilated front seats, 360-degree cameras, remote parking, in-built front and rear dash cams, JBL Black speakers with Dolby Atmos and more. The QWD models will also offer six terrain modes, a transparent bonnet function for the 360-degree cameras and off-road cruise control.
On the powertrain front, the Harrier EV gets rear-wheel drive as standard, featuring a 235 bhp electric motor paired with a 65 kWh or 75 kWh battery. The QWD variants add a second 156 bhp electric motor to the front axle, taking combined output to 391 bhp and 504 Nm of peak torque. Tata claims that the Harrier EV QWD will hit 100 kmph from a standstill in 6.3 seconds. When it comes to range, the claimed figures are- 65 kWh RWD (538 km), 75 kWh RWD (627 km), and 75 kWh QWD (622 km). While a 3.3 kW charger is provided with the vehicle, the 7.2 kW fast charger is offered as a Rs 50,000 option.
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Starting July 1, CNG vehicles are set to become more expensive in Maharashtra as the state implements its revised motor vehicle tax policy. Key changes come in the form of a tax rate hike for new CNG vehicles – limited to only privately registered cars, as well as an increase in the maximum limit of the state motor vehicle tax, which in turn will affect luxury car buyers.
Starting with CNG cars, the state government has hiked the motor vehicle tax rate on private-use cars by 1 per cent. Commercial use vehicles are not affected. Private use CNG vehicles were previously attracted a one-time state motor vehicle tax between 7 and 9 per cent based on the vehicle’s price.
Private use CNG vehicles were previously taxed between 7 and 9 per cent based on price.
On the luxury car front, too, buyers can expect to pay more for their new purchases. While the motor vehicle tax rates and slabs have remained unchanged, the state government has increased the maximum payable amount under the motor vehicle tax from Rs 20 lakh up to Rs 30 lakh.
Presently, petrol cars priced up to Rs 10 lakh attract a one-time tax of 11 per cent, with vehicles priced between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 20 lakh requiring a 12 per cent tax payment. Vehicles priced over Rs 20 lakh are taxed at 13 per cent. Similarly, for diesel, the cars are taxed at 13 per cent, 14 per cent and 15 per cent respectively. Imported vehicles attract a flat 20 per cent tax.
Higher maximum tax limit will affect high-end luxury car buyers who will now need to pay higher tax on their new vehicles.
As an example, a locally assembled luxury petrol car worth Rs 1.8 crore taxed at 13 per cent would amount to a total tax due of Rs 23.40 lakh. Under the older tax limit, the buyer would only be required to pay Rs 20 lakh in motor vehicle taxes. Now, however, the same buyer will be required to pay the full tax amount or Rs 3.40 lakh more.
With inputs from PTI
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Hero MotoCorp is all set to launch the Vida VX2 electric scooter in the Indian market today, July 1, 2025. The upcoming model will essentially be a rebadged version of the Vida Z, which was showcased earlier this year at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo. Visuals caught on camera earlier have shown the VX2 wearing a matte yellow shade, with the 'VX2 Plus' badge prominently displayed on its side panel.
From a design perspective, the Vida VX2 will closely resemble the earlier Vida Z, maintaining its overall silhouette and signature LED tail-light. The scooter is also expected to retain the 12-inch wheels seen on the current Vida V2 range. Previous sightings have shown the VX2 with a digital dashboard operated via a joystick on the left control pod. Moreover, unlike the keyless Vida V2, the VX2 will be started using a regular key, as evidenced by the visible key slot.
The styling of the VX2 will reflect a more straightforward and refined approach compared to the V1 and V2 scooters. It will forgo the split-seat layout in favour of a stepped, single-piece seat. While the digital dashboard will be smaller than that of the V2, higher-spec variants are expected to feature touch-sensitive functionality.
The VX2 will also offer removable battery packs, akin to the Vida V2 series. The base version is likely to be equipped with a single 2.2 kWh battery, whereas the top-spec model could come with dual batteries, offering a total capacity of 3.4 kWh.
Power will come from a direct-drive permanent magnet motor, with peak output expected to be slightly below the V2's 6 kW rating. A range exceeding 100 km is likely for the dual-battery (3.4 kWh) version.
The Vida VX2 is expected to carry a more affordable price tag than the V2 series, which currently retails between Rs 85,000 and Rs 1.35 lakh (ex-showroom). Once launched, the VX2 will enter a space dominated by rivals such as the TVS iQube, Bajaj Chetak, Ather Rizta, and Ola S1 series.
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The tubeless cross spoke wheels accessory on the Royal EnfieldHimalayan has reportedly become more expensive. Previously adding a premium of Rs 12,424 to the cost of the motorcycle, the option will now set you back Rs 40,645. However, this won’t be the case if you club the option with your motorcycle purchase, as then, the wheels can still be had for Rs 11,000. The price hike for the motorcycle accessory comes nearly nine months after it was first introduced.
The tubeless wheel accessory was first rolled out in September 2024, with the Himalayan being the only motorcycle to receive this option. The option was introduced after a lengthy homologation process, after reports from customers who were possibly hesitant earlier due to anxiety about punctures. Like the regular tubed spoke wheels, the new tubeless units come in the same size and spec – 90/90 21-inch up front and 140/80 R 17. New buyers can add tubeless wheels to their motorcycle via the ‘Make it Yours’ (MiY) customisation tool.
The Himalayan 450 was the first Royal Enfield motorcycle to get a liquid-cooled engine. It’s powered by a 452 cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled motor making 39.5 bhp at 8,000 rpm and 40 Nm at 5,500 rpm. The motor comes mated to a new 6-speed gearbox. The powertrain gets ride-by-wire, three riding modes, and a slip-and-assist clutch.
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Leaked images have confirmed that Aprilia is gearing up to launch the SR 175 scooter in India soon. Expected to replace the SR 160 upon its launch, the SR 175 will be the latest addition to Aprilia’s scooter range in India. The current range, which consists of the SR 160 and the SR 125 has remained largely unchanged for a while now and has seen a major downturn in sales over the past few years. If priced aptly, the SR 175 could, however, improve their fortunes and lead to an increase in sales.
Visually, the SR 175 appears to be similar in appearance to the SR 160
Visually, the SR 175 will sport a similar design as its predecessors- the SR 160 and the SR 150, retailing elements such as the front apron-mounted headlamp, scooped-up seat, edgy body panels, five-spoke alloy wheels and a similar taillamp setup. Another feature is the new TFT display, which appears to be similar to the units on the RS 457 and the Tuono 457 motorcycles.
Mechanically, the scooter appears to be identical to the SR 160, featuring telescopic forks up front, and a rear monoshock. Braking duties, however, are handled by a front disc and rear drum brake setup. The vehicle also appears to ride on 14-inch wheels, similar to the older model. On the powertrain front, the two-wheeler will be powered by a 175 cc air-cooled engine. Sources told us that the engine churns out nearly 13 bhp and 14 Nm of peak torque.
While not officially stated, the price of the scooter is likely to remain the same as the SR 160, which currently retails at Rs 1.32 lakh. There is currently no information on when the scooter will officially be launched in India although, given that dispatches have already begun, it will likely take place soon.
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The Toyota Innova Hycross is the latest vehicle to be crash tested by Bharat NCAP with the people mover being awarded a full five-star crash safety rating. The Hycross secured 30.47 points out of 32 for adult occupant protection and 45 out of 49 points for child occupant protection. The rating is applicable to all variants of the Hycross – both strong hybrid and non-hybrid.
The Hycross is the first MPV to be tested by Bharat NCAP and also the safest three-row model to be tested to date. The Safari was the first three-row model to be tested by Bharat NCAP and secured 30.08 points for adult occupant protection and 44.54 points for child occupant protection.
In terms of adult occupant protection, the Hycross scored 30.47 out of a possible 32 points. The vehicle scored 14.147 points out of 16 in the frontal offset barrier crash test offering good protection to the occupant’s head, pelvis and legs though protection to the chest was rated as adequate. Protection to the driver’s left lower leg was also rated as adequate.
In the side impact test, the Innova Hycross scored a full 16 points offering good protection to occupants in the side deformable barrier and pole impact tests.
Moving to child occupant protection, the Hycross secured 45 out of a possible 49 points dropping points in the vehicle assessment score. The MPV scored full points in the dynamic score and CRS installation score.
The Innova Hycross was launched in India in late 2022 as a more premium alternative to the Innova Crysta. The Hycross is offered in multiple variants and with the choice of either a standard petrol or a petrol-electric strong hybrid powertrain. The former is offered in the lower trim levels with the hybrid powertrain exclusive to the higher trims.
On the safety front, the Hycross gets 6 airbags as standard along with other passive safety features such as ESC, hill start assist, ABS and seat belt reminders for all three rows. Additionally, the top variants also offer ADAS safety systems and a 360-degree camera.
Prices for the Hycross currently range from Rs 19.09 lakh to Rs 31.34 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).
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Hero MotoCorp is all set to launch the Vida VX2 electric scooter in the Indian market tomorrow, July 1, 2025. The upcoming model will essentially be a rebadged version of the Vida Z, which was showcased earlier this year at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo. Visuals caught on camera earlier have shown the VX2 wearing a matte yellow shade, with the 'VX2 Plus' badge prominently displayed on its side panel.
From a design perspective, the Vida VX2 will closely resemble the earlier Vida Z, maintaining its overall silhouette and signature LED tail-light. The scooter is also expected to retain the 12-inch wheels seen on the current Vida V2 range. Previous sightings have shown the VX2 with a digital dashboard operated via a joystick on the left control pod. Moreover, unlike the keyless Vida V2, the VX2 will be started using a regular key, as evidenced by the visible key slot.
The styling of the VX2 will reflect a more straightforward and refined approach compared to the V1 and V2 scooters. It will forgo the split-seat layout in favour of a stepped, single-piece seat. While the digital dashboard will be smaller than that of the V2, higher-spec variants are expected to feature touch-sensitive functionality.
The VX2 will also offer removable battery packs, akin to the Vida V2 series. The base version is likely to be equipped with a single 2.2 kWh battery, whereas the top-spec model could come with dual batteries, offering a total capacity of 3.4 kWh.
Power will come from a direct-drive permanent magnet motor, with peak output expected to be slightly below the V2's 6 kW rating. A range exceeding 100 km is likely for the dual-battery (3.4 kWh) version.
The Vida VX2 is expected to carry a more affordable price tag than the V2 series, which currently retails between Rs 85,000 and Rs 1.35 lakh (ex-showroom). Once launched, the VX2 will enter a space dominated by rivals such as the TVS iQube, Bajaj Chetak, Ather Rizta, and Ola S1 series.
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Tata Motors recently announced prices for the QWD Harrier EV. Along with it, the company has also rolled out prices for the Stealth Edition of the electric SUV, which range between Rs 28.24 lakh and go up to Rs 30.23 lakh (ex-showroom). The Harrier EV Stealth Edition is solely offered in the top-spec Empowered variant in both RWD and AWD form.
The Stealth Edition lineup includes four variants: the Empowered 75 Stealth, priced at Rs 28.24 lakh, the Empowered 75 Stealth ACFC (with 7.2 kW AC charger), priced at Rs 28.73 lakh, the Empowered QWD 75 Stealth, available for Rs 29.74 lakh and the top-end Empowered QWD 75 Stealth ACFC, which is priced at Rs 30.23 lakh.
The talking point of the Stealth edition is its exterior colour. The electric SUV features a matte black paint finish, with all chrome and silver elements from the standard model replaced by black accents. It also sports 'Stealth' badging on the exterior, along with 19-inch alloy wheels finished in piano black. Inside, the cabin continues the dark theme, fully blacked out to match the exterior styling.
On the powertrain front, the Harrier EV Stealth Edition in its RWD configuration is equipped with a 235 bhp electric motor mounted on the rear axle, delivering an ARAI-certified range of up to 627 km for the 75 kWh variants. The AWD versions, meanwhile, add a second 156 bhp motor to the front axle, boosting the total output to over 300 bhp and 504 Nm of peak torque. According to Tata, the real-world driving range for these variants is expected to be between 460 and 490 km.
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After having set a lap record of “The Green Hell” in October 2024, Xiaomi’s high-performance SU7 Ultra Prototype has set a new lap record at the Nürburgring Nordschleife. In its latest attempt, the prototype completed the 20.8-kilometre circuit in 6 minutes 22.091 seconds, a full 24 seconds quicker than its previous best time set in October 2024.
The achievement not only marks a personal best for Xiaomi but also earns the SU7 Ultra Prototype third place overall on the Nürburgring all-time leaderboard. Earlier in the month, the production-spec SU7 Ultra had completed the same circuit in 7:04.957 minutes, making it the fastest production electric vehicle to lap the Nürburgring. The prototype’s faster run now sets a new record among electric prototypes, dethroning even the Lotus Evija X, which set a time of 6:24.047 minutes in April 2024.
Powering the SU7 Ultra is a tri-motor all-wheel-drive system developed entirely in-house by Xiaomi. It combines two V8s-series motors (each producing 570 bhp and 635 Nm) with a V6s-series motor delivering 387 bhp, resulting in a total system output of 1,526 bhp. According to the company, the SU7 Ultra can go from 0 to 100 kmph in 1.97 seconds, reach 200 kmph in 5.96 seconds, and hit 300 kmph in 15.07 seconds, with a top speed of over 350 kmph.
Xiaomi offers the production version of the SU7 Ultra in two versions for the Chinese market. First is the Track Package, which includes a high-capacity battery pack, upgraded cooling and braking systems, dual-chamber air springs, adaptive dampers, lightweight forged 21-inch wheels, and extensive use of carbon fibre elements such as the roof and rear wheel arches. It also comes with high-performance tyres and an additional set of semi-slicks for track use.
Second is the Nürburgring Limited Edition, which is the commemorative road-legal version of the vehicle’s Nürburgring success and includes all elements of the Track Package, while also featuring a carbon fibre dual-vent hood, carbon rear spoiler, full carbon exterior and interior trim, and exclusive “Ultra Lightning” decals.
The SU7 equipped with the Track Package is priced at an additional RMB 100,000, bringing its total cost to RMB 629,900 (approximately Rs 75 lakh). Meanwhile, the Nürburgring Limited Edition is aimed at collectors and carries a significantly higher price of RMB 814,900 (around Rs 97 lakh). For 2025, Xiaomi plans to produce just 10 units of the Nürburgring Limited Edition, with total production limited to 100 units globally.
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