Mahindra Vision SXT Concept: In Pictures

Mahindra unveiled the Vision SXT concept at its Freedom NU Independence Day event, alongside three other new concept vehicles. Based on the company’s modular NU_IQ platform, the Vision SXT is a derivative of the Vision T concept, which shared the stage. The SXT and T versions offer a glimpse into future additions to the Thar family, with a production version of the Vision SXT expected to be revealed sometime in 2027. Interestingly, Mahindra has also hinted at taking all four concepts to global markets. 

 

 

Also Read: Mahindra Vision SXT Concept Unveiled

 

Starting with design, the Vision SXT shares several visual cues with the Vision T and bears resemblance to the Thar.e electric SUV concept that debuted two years ago. 

 

At the front, it features squared lighting clusters with vertical LED accents integrated into a blacked-out grille. 

 

Also Read: Mahindra Concept Vehicles Debut Highlights: Features, Specifications, Images

 

A large front bumper and metallic skid plate add to the SUV’s rugged styling. 

The side profile has a boxy stance, flared wheel arches, and a well-defined shoulder line.

 

Also Read: Mahindra Vision X Concept Revealed; Based On New NU IQ Platform

 

At the rear, the SXT has an open cargo deck equipped with roll bars and a slim, rectangular tailgate panel.   
 

While technical specifications are yet to be announced, the Vision SXT is built on Mahindra’s new NU_IQ architecture.

 

Also Read: Mahindra Vision S Concept SUV Unveiled 

Coming to the interior, the concept gets a floating digital instrument display, a large portrait-style central infotainment screen, and physical controls below it.

Other elements include a new three-spoke steering wheel with the Vision SXT name on it. The air-con vents are vertically stacked on either end of the dashboard. 

The entire cabin makes use of black as the base colour, while yellow does contrasting duties.

 

Also Read: Mahindra Vision X Concept: In Pictures

The Vision SXT has been designed to support a wide range of powertrains, including petrol, diesel, hybrid, and electric options.

Currently in concept form, the production version of the Vision SXT is expected to arrive sometime in 2027. 

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Mahindra Vision X Concept: In Pictures

Mahindra Auto showcased the Vision X Concept during its Independence Day event, alongside three other new concept vehicles. Among the lineup, the Vision X appears to be the most compact, though its dimensions may be close to the Vision S. The crossover-style Vision X previews an upcoming model built on Mahindra’s new NU_IQ modular platform, which can support internal combustion, hybrid, and electric powertrains. 

 

 

Also Read: Mahindra Vision X Concept Revealed; Based On New NU IQ Platform

 

The Vision X concept features a sporty, crossover-inspired design with high ground clearance.

At the front, it sports boomerang-shaped LED daytime running lights, with vertically stacked LED headlamps sitting underneath. The Mahindra logo is centrally placed on a closed-off front panel, which features styling cues similar to those on the XUV 3XO RevX. 

 

Also Read: Mahindra Vision S Concept SUV Unveiled 

 

Moving to the profile, the concept features a gloss black, thick cladding around the squared-off wheel arches. The ORVM duties here are managed by cameras, akin to other concepts. 

Akin to Mahindra’s other concepts, the Vision X features flush-fitting door handles and sharp-looking alloy wheels. It also includes a silver-finished sidestep. 

At the rear, the design incorporates a sharply raked rear windscreen, giving it a coupe-like silhouette, along with a roof spoiler which is similar to the BE 6. 

Coming to the interior, the Vision X adopts a minimalist cabin layout. The most notable feature is a combined digital display that serves both the instrument cluster and infotainment system. 

Moreover, it gets a three-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel, a dashboard with vertical slat design, rectangular air vents, and a large centre console with integrated cup holders and storage space. 

 

Also Read: Mahindra Vision SXT Concept Unveiled

 Like the other concept models, the Vision X is built on Mahindra’s NU.IQ monocoque platform. 

  

Mahindra has not disclosed engine specifications yet, though the NU_IQ platform is compatible with petrol, diesel, hybrid, and electric powertrains. 

 

Also Read: Mahindra Concept Vehicles Debut Highlights: Features, Specifications, Images

 

Similar to the Vision T, SXT, and S concepts, the production version of the Vision X is expected to launch around 2027. 

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Mahindra Concept Vehicles Debut Highlights: Features, Specifications, Images

Mahindra is all set to unveil a range of new concepts today at its Freedom_Nu event, on August 15, 2025. The carmaker is set to reveal four new concepts today, namely the Vision.T, Vision.S, Vision.SXT and Vision.X. Mahindra has dropped multiple teasers for the vehicles over the past few weeks, although the teasers have only given us a minor look at the vehicles. Here’s everything we know about the vehicles so far.

 

Also Read: Mahindra BE 6 Batman Edition Launched At Rs 27.79 Lakh
 

Mahindra Vision.T

Lock eyes with the Vision.T and meet the bold NU face of innovation. Full reveal this 15th August.

FREEDOM_NU pic.twitter.com/xd0LyXvpFN

— Mahindra Automotive (@Mahindra_Auto) August 11, 2025

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One of the vehicles that will be showcased is the Mahindra Vision.T. Teasers have shown bits and pieces of the vehicle, which include wide wheel arches and off-road type block pattern tyres. We expect it to be an evolution of the Thar.e, the electric off-road concept Mahindra first revealed in 2023. Though it appears to carry the design of the Thar.e, the latest iteration of the concept is expected to get some changes on the exterior, which could make it look closer to the production version.
 

Mahindra Vision.S

A commanding gaze from the front! The Vision.S arrives in all its glory this 15th August. Get ready!

FREEDOM_NU pic.twitter.com/rGIQojVkI4

— Mahindra Automotive (@Mahindra_Auto) August 7, 2025

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The Vision S is another concept vehicle that will be showcased at the event. While it is not yet clear what the Vision S will be, reports point to the vehicle either being the all-new Bolero, which has been spotted testing multiple times or a version of the Scorpio SUV, with either a hybrid or an all-electric powertrain. The teasers show a clamshell bonnet with what looks to be vents along the outer edges and an almost vertical fascia with what could be a vertically slotted grille. The concept also looks to have prominent wheel arch flares.
 

Mahindra Vision SXT

A Vision designed for bold adventures. Vision.SXT lands 15th August 2025 at #FREEDOM_NU.#MahindraAuto #MahindraElectricOriginSUVs pic.twitter.com/TnkdmBEsQP

— Mahindra Automotive (@Mahindra_Auto) July 4, 2025

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Mahindra will also debut the Vision SXT at the event. This model, however, is expected to be a heavy-duty pickup, which could be a more production-ready version of the global Pik-up concept vehicle based on the Scorpio N. During the debut of this concept two years back, it was mentioned that the vehicle would be released in a production-spec variant that will go on sale in 2025.

 

Mahindra Vision X

It’s sleek, it’s sharp, it’s athletic. Vision.X joins the #FREEDOM_NU line up this 15th August 2025#MahindraAuto #MahindraElectricOriginSUVs pic.twitter.com/9FZk1dKUAM

— Mahindra Automotive (@Mahindra_Auto) July 7, 2025

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Another concept that will be unveiled is the Vision X, which is expected to be an all-new SUV. According to reports, the Vision X will be an all-new addition to the XUV lineup, and could even be the all-electric version of the XUV 700. Little is known about the concept, aside from the fact that it will feature a smoother design than the other vehicles to be shown. 

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Mahindra Concept Vehicles Debut Live Updates: Features, Specifications, Images

Mahindra is all set to unveil a range of new concepts today at its Freedom_Nu event, on August 15, 2025. The carmaker is set to reveal four new concepts today, namely the Vision.T, Vision.S, Vision.SXT and Vision.X. Mahindra has dropped multiple teasers for the vehicles over the past few weeks, although the teasers have only given us a minor look at the vehicles. Here’s everything we know about the vehicles so far.

 

Also Read: Mahindra BE 6 Batman Edition Launched At Rs 27.79 Lakh
 

Mahindra Vision.T

Lock eyes with the Vision.T and meet the bold NU face of innovation. Full reveal this 15th August.

FREEDOM_NU pic.twitter.com/xd0LyXvpFN

— Mahindra Automotive (@Mahindra_Auto) August 11, 2025

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One of the vehicles that will be showcased is the Mahindra Vision.T. Teasers have shown bits and pieces of the vehicle, which include wide wheel arches and off-road type block pattern tyres. We expect it to be an evolution of the Thar.e, the electric off-road concept Mahindra first revealed in 2023. Though it appears to carry the design of the Thar.e, the latest iteration of the concept is expected to get some changes on the exterior, which could make it look closer to the production version.
 

Mahindra Vision.S

A commanding gaze from the front! The Vision.S arrives in all its glory this 15th August. Get ready!

FREEDOM_NU pic.twitter.com/rGIQojVkI4

— Mahindra Automotive (@Mahindra_Auto) August 7, 2025

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The Vision S is another concept vehicle that will be showcased at the event. While it is not yet clear what the Vision S will be, reports point to the vehicle either being the all-new Bolero, which has been spotted testing multiple times or a version of the Scorpio SUV, with either a hybrid or an all-electric powertrain. The teasers show a clamshell bonnet with what looks to be vents along the outer edges and an almost vertical fascia with what could be a vertically slotted grille. The concept also looks to have prominent wheel arch flares.
 

Mahindra Vision SXT

A Vision designed for bold adventures. Vision.SXT lands 15th August 2025 at #FREEDOM_NU.#MahindraAuto #MahindraElectricOriginSUVs pic.twitter.com/TnkdmBEsQP

— Mahindra Automotive (@Mahindra_Auto) July 4, 2025

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Mahindra will also debut the Vision SXT at the event. This model, however, is expected to be a heavy-duty pickup, which could be a more production-ready version of the global Pik-up concept vehicle based on the Scorpio N. During the debut of this concept two years back, it was mentioned that the vehicle would be released in a production-spec variant that will go on sale in 2025.

 

Mahindra Vision X

It’s sleek, it’s sharp, it’s athletic. Vision.X joins the #FREEDOM_NU line up this 15th August 2025#MahindraAuto #MahindraElectricOriginSUVs pic.twitter.com/9FZk1dKUAM

— Mahindra Automotive (@Mahindra_Auto) July 7, 2025

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Another concept that will be unveiled is the Vision X, which is expected to be an all-new SUV. According to reports, the Vision X will be an all-new addition to the XUV lineup, and could even be the all-electric version of the XUV 700. Little is known about the concept, aside from the fact that it will feature a smoother design than the other vehicles to be shown. 

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Ola S1 Sport, Diamondhead To Debut Today: What To Expect?

Ola Electric is all set to unveil two new offerings tomorrow, at its Sankalp event, on August 15. These products are expected to be the Diamondhead and the S1 Sport. The Diamondhead, which is an electric motorcycle, will be based on the concept shown by Ola two years ago, while the S1 Sport is expected to be a more performance-oriented version of the S1 electric scooter. Both models will likely be powered by Ola's own made-in-India 4680 cells. 

 

Also Read: Ola S1 Z, Gig Electric Scooters Launch Delayed As Company Grapples With Sales Slowdown
 

Get ready to experience our moonshot come to life!
More on 15th August.

Register now for Sankalp 2025.
Link in bio. pic.twitter.com/QJlxicIu8r

— Ola Electric (@OlaElectric) August 14, 2025

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The Diamondhead, expected to be an all-electric supersport from the EV startup, will likely be a more expensive offering than the Roadster, which is currently on sale with prices ranging from Rs 1.05 lakh to Rs 1.40 lakh (ex-showroom). It is also expected to be the most powerful offering from the company to date. The motorcycle in its production form, however, is expected to retain most of the styling cues from the concept according to the teasers. These include the horizontal LED daytime-running lamp strip up front, the LED headlamp pod, and a sharp tail section with a horizontal taillamp.

 

Also Read: Ola Roadster X+ Debuts With 9.1 kWh And 502 KM IDC Range
 

In concept guise, the Diamondhead featured 17-inch wheels on both ends (the rear wheel featuring a wheel cover for improving aerodynamics and styling), while the braking setup included a twin-disc setup at the front and a single disc at the rear. 

 

Also Read: Top 5 Electric Scooters With The Highest Range You Can Buy In India
 

Feel the adrenaline…
It’s almost here.
Only 2 days to go until the BIG reveal!
Register now for Sankalp 2025.
Link in bio. pic.twitter.com/0Uo5IPECiK

— Ola Electric (@OlaElectric) August 13, 2025

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The S1 Pro, meanwhile, will feature a range of revised design elements over the standard S1.  These include sharp body panels towards the rear. The scooter will also feature a dash camera up front. There is no information about the Ola S1 Sport from a mechanical standpoint, although we can speculate that the changes from the standard S1 will likely include a more powerful electric motor setup. This will also undoubtedly be accompanied by a higher price tag. 

 

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Kawasaki KLX 230R S Launched In India At Rs 1.94 Lakh

Along with reducing the price of the KLX 230 to Rs 1.99 lakh, Kawasaki India has launched the KLX 230R S at Rs 1.94 lakh (ex-showroom). The KLX 230R S is a purpose-built off-road motorcycle that is not street-legal, designed specifically for trail riding and use in closed-course environments. Staying true to its roots, the dirt bike retains its KX-inspired styling and is only offered in the classic lime green paint scheme. 

 

Also Read: Kawasaki KLX 230 Prices Slashed: Now Costs Rs 1.99 Lakh 
 Interestingly, the international-spec KLX230R S, brought in as a CKD (Completely Knocked Down) unit, will remain on sale in India alongside the India-made version. The imported model – priced at Rs 5.21 lakh (ex-showroom) – features a lightweight aluminium frame and swingarm, while the India-made variant uses a high-tensile steel chassis and swingarm to keep production costs in check.  

 

The locally manufactured KLX 230R S has a kerb weight of 129 kg, which is 14 kg more than the imported model. The bike offers a ground clearance of 270 mm and a seat height of 900 mm. Suspension duties are handled by a 37 mm telescopic front fork offering 220 mm of travel, and a link-type rear suspension that provides adjustable preload and offers 223 mm of travel. It rides on 21-inch front and 18-inch rear spoke wheels wrapped in knobby tyres, while stopping power comes from 240 mm disc at the front and 220 mm at the rear. 

 

Also Read: Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R Recalled Over Engine Issue
 

The India-made KLX 230R S is powered by the same 233 cc, air-cooled, fuel-injected engine, delivering 18.74 bhp at 7,800 rpm and 19.1 Nm of peak torque at 6,200 rpm. The engine is mated to a six-speed gearbox. 

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KTM 160 Duke Vs Yamaha MT-15: Specifications, Features, Prices Compared

KTM India recently launched the 160 Duke in the country at a price tag of Rs 1.85 lakh (ex-showroom). The entry-level KTM model primarily goes up against the Yamaha MT-15, which was also recently updated. The MT-15 has been a strong player in the 150-160cc street naked segment, built around the liquid-cooled engine first seen on the R15. In this piece, we take a closer look at the new kid on the block to see how it compares to its chief rival. 

 

Also Read: KTM 160 Duke Launched At Rs. 1.85 Lakh

 

The 160 Duke makes 0.64 bhp more than the MT-15. 

 

KTM 160 Duke vs Yamaha MT-15: Specification Check

	KTM 160 Duke	Yamaha MT-15
Engine	164.2 cc liquid cooled single	155 cc liquid cooled single
Max Power	18.74 bhp @ 9500 rpm	18.10 bhp @ 10000 rpm
Peak Torque	15.5 Nm @ 7500 rpm	14.1 Nm @7500 rpm
Gearbox	6-speed	6-speed

 
The KTM 160 Duke and Yamaha MT-15 both target riders looking for an entry-level sporty motorcycle. Both bikes feature a liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine, although the KTM comes with a slightly bigger 164.2 cc engine, producing 18.74 bhp at 9,500 rpm. Meanwhile, Yamaha’s 155 cc engine punches out a close 18.10 bhp but at a higher 10,000 rpm.  

 

When it comes to torque, the KTM again leads with 15.5 Nm at 7,500 rpm, compared to the MT-15’s 14.1 Nm at the same rpm. Both bikes feature a 6-speed gearbox. While the KTM offers a bit more grunt at lower revs, the Yamaha revs higher to reach its peak power.

 

Also Read: Honda CB125 Hornet vs Hero Xtreme 125R vs TVS Raider: Specifications Compared

 

The Yamaha MT-15 is 6 kg lighter than the KTM 160 Duke. 
 

KTM 160 Duke vs Yamaha MT-15: Dimensions and Weight 

	KTM 160 Duke	Yamaha MT-15
Kerb Weight	147	141 kg
Seat Height	815 mm	810 mm
Fuel Tank	10.1 litres	10 litres
Wheelbase	1,357 mm	1,325 mm
Ground Clearance	174 mm	170 mm

 

The KTM 160 Duke and Yamaha MT-15 differ in dimensions and weight, which can influence comfort and handling. The KTM is a bit heavier, tipping the scales at 147 kg compared to the Yamaha’s 141 kg kerb. Seat height is close, with the KTM at 815 mm and the MT-15 just slightly lower at 810 mm, making both bikes fairly accessible for most riders.  
 
Fuel tank capacity is nearly the same, 10.1 litres on the KTM versus 10 litres on the Yamaha. The KTM has a longer wheelbase by about 30 mm, measuring 1,357 mm compared to the MT-15’s 1,325 mm. Ground clearance also favours the KTM by a small margin, with 174 mm against the MT-15’s 170 mm.

 

Also Read: 2026 KTM 690 Enduro R, 690 SMC R Unveiled

Cycle parts are more and less similar on both machines. 
 

KTM 160 Duke vs Yamaha MT-15: Cycle Parts

	KTM 160 Duke	Yamaha MT-15
Front/Rear Shock	USD/Monoshock	USD/Monoshock
Tyre size front	110/70‑17”	100/80-17”
Tyre size rear	140/60‑17”	140/70 -17”
Brakes front	320 mm disc	282 mm disc
Brakes rear	220 mm disc	220 mm disc

 
When it comes to hardware, both the KTM 160 Duke and Yamaha MT-15 are equipped with similar components, including USD front forks and a rear monoshock. However, there are some notable differences in tyre and brake specifications. Up front, the KTM uses a wider 110/70-17 tyre compared to the Yamaha’s 100/80-17. At the rear, both bikes come with 140 mm wide tyres, but the MT-15 opts for a taller 70-profile, while the Duke uses a 60-profile.  

 

The braking department also sees a clear difference in the front, where the KTM features a larger 320 mm disc versus the MT-15’s 282 mm unit. Both bikes use the same 220 mm disc at the rear.

 

Also Read: Yamaha MT-15 2.0 DLX Launched At Rs 1.81 Lakh; Gains Colour TFT Display

 

The MT-15, in its top-spec variant, offers a colour TFT display as opposed to an LCD unit on the KTM. 

 

KTM 160 Duke vs Yamaha MT-15: Features

 

When it comes to features, the KTM 160 Duke packs a 5-inch LCD instrument console, similar to what we've seen on older KTM models. While the design isn't new, it covers all the essentials and offers smartphone connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation, and controls for calls and music. The lighting setup is fully LED here as well.  
 
On the other side, Yamaha has stepped things up with the MT-15 DLX variant by adding a colour TFT display. It supports Bluetooth pairing through the Y-Connect app, giving access to phone alerts, ride stats, and more. 

  

Both motorcycles come with dual-channel ABS as standard. However, the KTM goes a step further with its Supermoto mode, allowing the rider to disable rear ABS. The KTM 160 Duke also gets a crawling feature, which has become a staple for every KTM machine.

 

Also Read: Yamaha Motorcycles, Scooters Now Offered With 10-Year Warranty

 

The top-spec DLX version of the MT-15 is cheaper by Rs roughly 4,000 as compared to the 160 Duke. 
 

KTM 160 Duke vs Yamaha MT-15: Price

	KTM 160 Duke	Yamaha MT-15
Prices (ex-showroom)	Rs 1.85 lakh	Rs 1.70 lakh – Rs 1.81 lakh

 
In terms of price, the KTM 160 Duke is priced at Rs 1.85 lakh (ex-showroom). The MT-15, depending on the variant, ranges between Rs 1.70 lakh and Rs 1.81 lakh. The difference places the KTM slightly higher in price, though both bikes remain closely matched overall.  

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Tata Motors Announces Onam Offers In Kerala With Benefits Up To Rs 40,000 To 2 Lakh Across The Range

Tata Motors has launched an exclusive Onam festival campaign for the state of Kerala. Valid from 25th July to 30th September 2025, the campaign offers special benefits up to Rs 2 lakh on passengers and electric vehicles with priority deliveries as part of Onam celebration. Part of the campaign is flexible and attractive financial plans reserved for this festive season. 

Customers looking to buy a Tata vehicle this Onam can avail Balloon Schemes – enabling low initial EMIs for easier upgrades, step-up schemes that provide progressive EMIs tuned to income raises for ease of payment, and a low EMI scheme offering just Rs 100 per lakh EMI for the first 3 months. Moreover, EV customers can also avail a six-month financing for accessories, extended warranty, AMC, and servicing.

Here's a model-wise discount and benefits under the Onam Campaign:

ICE	Discount Up to
Tiago	Rs 60,000
Tigor	Rs 60,000
Altroz	Rs 1,00,000
Punch	Rs 65,000
Nexon	Rs 60,000
Curvv	Rs 40,000
Harrier	Rs 75,000
Safari	Rs 75,000

Also Read: Tata Harrier Adventure X, Safari Adventure X Plus Launched; Prices Start At Rs 18.99 Lakh

EV	Discount Up to
Tiago.ev	Rs 1,00,000
Punch.ev	Rs 85,000
Nexon.ev	Rs 1,00,000
Curvv.ev	Rs 2,00,000
Harrier.ev	Rs 1,00,000

 

Tata Motors has expanded its service network across Kerala, which now stands at 622 passenger vehicle bays across 83 workshops, a dedicated EV battery repair centre, training facilities, and 5 Tata.ev stores. The Indian carmaker is also offering real-time technical support through its Central Diagnostics Command Centre for faster diagnostics and service. For EV adoption in the region, a dedicated EV battery repair center in Kochi is in place. Additionally, a digitally enabled Roadside Assistance RSA program (60 minutes in cities, 90 minutes on highways) ensures real-time tracking and industry-best on-site repair capabilities, claims the official statement.

Speaking on the introduction of this campaign, Vivek Srivatsa, chief commercial officer, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd., said, “Kerala has always been a vital market for Tata Motors and holds special significance for the Tata Group. Onam is the most important festival for our customers here, and we are committed to making this celebration even more meaningful. This year’s festive campaign is designed to enhance the overall buying experience with attractive cash offers, easy financing options, and priority deliveries—ensuring a delightful journey for our customers.”

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TVS NTorq 150 Officially Teased Ahead Of Unveil On September 1

TVS Motor Company will introduce its first 150 cc scooter, expected to be the new TVS NTorq 150 on September 1, 2025. The company has released a teaser video showing the LED headlights along with the sound of the engine revving of the new scooter. Details about the upcoming TVS NTorq 150 are extremely limited at this stage, with the company managing to keep everything under wraps, at least for now. 

 

Also Read: New TVS Electric Scooter Design Patented

The teaser reveals the four LED projector set-up headlight unit of the scooter along with the “T” shaped DRL and the face of the scooter does look sporty and aggressive. The NTorq 150 is expected to be powered by a new 150 cc engine, although it’s still not clear if this unit will be a bored-out version of the NTorq 125 or an all-new engine. 

 

Also Read: 2025 TVS RTR 310 First Ride Review

 

We expect a sporty state of tune with good performance and refinement from this engine. Also expected are segment-best features, including perhaps a digital TFT instrument console with smartphone connectivity and different ride modes.

 

Also Read: TVS RTR 310 Variants Explained

 

The new TVS scooter will be unveiled on September 1, 2025 and we expect prices to be announced soon. Once launched, the new TVS NTorq 150 will compete against existing rivals like the Yamaha Aerox 155 and the soon-to-be-launched Hero Xoom 160. We expect to swing a leg over the new NTorq 150 soon, so stay tuned to carandbike for our first ride impressions.

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Ethanol Now More Expensive Than Petrol; Improves Performance: Govt

Amid rising concerns about the usage of E20 petrol in vehicles in the country, the Union Government has issued yet another clarification regarding its use. Multiple issues have been raised with respect to performance, fuel efficiency as well as the high cost of ethanol-blended petrol and the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has yet again made its view clear on all of them.

Fuel pumps across the country are now selling only E20 petrol.

 

“The use of E20 gives better acceleration, better ride quality and most importantly, lowered carbon emissions by approximately 30 per cent as compared to E10 fuel” read a government statement, adding that vehicles tuned for E20 deliver better acceleration which is an important factor in city driving conditions. 

 

The statement also says that voices suggesting that E20 causes a “drastic” reduction in fuel efficiency are misplaced. “Vehicle mileage is influenced by a variety of factors beyond just fuel type. These include driving habits, maintenance practices such as oil changes and air filter cleanliness, tyre pressure and alignment, and even air conditioning load”, the statement adds.

 

Also Read: Ethanol-Blended Petrol Affecting Car Performance And Fuel Efficiency? Government Issues Clarification

 

Talking about the possibility of E20 petrol being cheaper, the statement explains, “Over time, procurement price of ethanol have increased and now the weighted average price of ethanol is higher than cost of refined petrol.” This practically suggests that going forward the cost of ethanol-based petrol is unlikely to come down. “The alternative of going back to E0 Petrol would involve losing the hard fought gains on pollution and the success achieved in energy transition.”, said the statement. It also mentions that any decision of standardising a higher blend of ethanol in petrol (beyond E20) is yet to be taken.
 

Finally, referring to older vehicles that are not tuned for E20 usage, the government has made clear that filling of E20 fuel has no impact of the validity of insurance of vehicles in India. “Only in case of certain older vehicles, some  rubber parts and gaskets may require replacement earlier than in case non-blended fuel was used. This replacement is inexpensive and can be easily managed during routine servicing. It may need to be done once in the life time of vehicle and is a simple process to be carried out at any authorised workshop.”

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Honda Elevate: Built For Our Roads and Lives

Roads in India aren’t just strips of tarmac. They are a testing ground. Between narrow lanes, uneven surfaces, sudden showers, and spontaneous U-turns, our daily commute can feel like a small expedition. And yet, amid this chaos, there are machines that don’t just survive—they adapt. The Honda Elevate is one of them. We’ve been spending lots of time with the Elevate this monsoon — and, as we all know, the rains in Mumbai and even Delhi can be mad — and what stood out wasn’t just its ability to handle poor roads or big puddles: it was the way the car feels built for how India actually drives.

 

The right kind of SUV

The Elevate doesn’t scream for attention. It wears its SUV stance with quiet confidence: a bold grille, strong lines, and a ride height that immediately inspires trust. And that 220 mm ground clearance? It’s your buffer against monsoon craters, rogue speed bumps, and vanishing roads. But what really impressed us was how the Elevate doesn’t feel bulky despite its size. It’s easy to place, the steering is light in the city, and the turning radius is tight enough for U-turns in tight spaces. You sit high, with a clear view of the road ahead, and, as we all know, in India, that makes a world of difference. 

As you spend more time inside, you’ll also realise that the Elevate is a car that soothes you. The cabin is clean, well laid-out, and not trying to be something it’s not. Everything is exactly where it should be—within reach, easy to use, and thoughtfully placed. The wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay work without a fuss. The wireless charger does its job. And the visibility all around—from the driver’s seat and the rear—is excellent. This is a car wins you over with sophisticated solidity. At the back, there’s plenty of legroom. The flat floor helps, and the overall sense of space is generous. It’s an incredibly comfortable second row. Whether you're self-driven or being chauffeured, it works equally well. And then there’s the boot: 458 litres of usable space. Square, deep, and wide enough to take in large suitcases or several cabin bags. Perfect for families, road trips, or just a grocery run that gets a little ambitious.

 

Under the hood

The Elevate uses Honda’s tried-and-tested 1.5L i-VTEC petrol engine, which is smooth, predictable, and genuinely fun to rev. In fact, there’s something old-school Honda about it: it builds power progressively, there’s no sudden surge, and the engine note is clean and natural. The 6-speed manual gearbox is slick and satisfying, with a light clutch and precise throws. It feels mechanical in a good way. And if you prefer convenience, you ought to have a look at the CVT variant, which is refined and smooth, and with none of that rubber-band effect. In a world of temperamental turbo-petrols, this naturally aspirated engine is refreshingly stress-free.

 

Ready for India

The Elevate’s ride quality is another area where it feels tailored for Indian use. The suspension is soft but not floaty: it absorbs potholes, handles broken roads, and settles quickly. You’re not tossed around. You don’t hear loud crashes. Even over rough patches, the cabin remains quiet and composed. Paired with that generous ground clearance, it’s the kind of setup that gives you peace of mind. You don’t need to second-guess the road ahead. You just drive. And Honda’s got safety sorted as well. 

The company’s advanced driver assistance system—Honda Sensing—is standard on the higher variants. It includes lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, road departure mitigation, which alerts the driver if the vehicle is in danger of straying off the road and assists with steering, and collision mitigation braking. Useful? Absolutely. Obtrusive? Not at all. For a country where the unexpected is always around the corner, that extra layer of safety is welcome. You also get six airbags, a multi-angle rear camera, and LaneWatch, which uses a camera installed below the right, passenger-side mirror to relay an image of the area on the right side of the vehicle to the central display screen. All of it adds up to a car that takes safety seriously. The Honda Elevate isn’t a headline-chaser. It’s a car built for people who want comfort, reliability, and calm. It drives well, rides well, and feels thoughtfully engineered for Indian needs. And in a sea of gimmicks and oversized promises, that feels like a breath of fresh air. If you want an SUV that understands you, not just the road—it’s right here.

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