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Aprilia has entered the mid-size scooter segment with the SR GT 400. It is an adventure-oriented crossover scooter positioned along the lines of the Honda X-ADV 750. Taking cues from Aprilia’s motorcycle lineup, the SR GT 400 is aiming to bridge the gap between a scooter and an entry-level adventure tourer.
The SR GT 400 draws clear inspiration from Aprilia’s sport and adventure motorcycles. At the front, it features a tall windscreen (5-step adjustable for height), compact bodywork, and a twin-pod LED headlight setup with integrated DRLs. Furthermore, it has a wide handlebar and features knuckle guards to give it that ADV-scooter touch. The rear section is minimal, with a slim tail, integrated LED lighting, and a short overhang.
The scooter is powered by a 400 cc, liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine producing 35 bhp and 37.7 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with a CVT.
On the feature front, the crossover scooter comes equipped with a 5-inch colour TFT display offering connectivity options for calls, music, and navigation. Other features include keyless ignition, a USB-C charging port, among others.
The SR GT 400 sports a USD fork at the front with 120 mm of travel and twin gas-charged rear shock absorbers with adjustable preload. It has 190 mm of ground clearance and rides on 16-inch front and 14-inch rear alloy wheels. Fuel tank capacity is rated to be 12 litres, while seat height is 820 mm.
Braking is handled by a 300 mm front disc and a 240 mm rear disc, along with dual-channel ABS with selectable modes. The scooter also features Aprilia Traction Control (ATC) with two levels of intervention, which can be switched off.
The SR GT 400 will be offered in Rugged Black, Boulder Grey, Dusty Grey, and a Rally Replica version inspired by the Tuareg Rally.
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Honda recently hosted an automotive technology workshop for a select media group at its R&D centre at Tochigi, near Tokyo. It offered a detailed glimpse into the next-generation technologies set to power its vehicles scheduled for release in the second half of this decade. Broadly, these include a platform for future small and mid-size petrol/electric hybrids (including the next-gen City and Elevate), a new strong hybrid system for larger models (CR-V and above) and technologies for compact electric cars previewed by the Super One concept at the just-concluded 2025 Japan Mobility Show (JMS).
While the new ‘big’ hybrid platform improves efficiency, performance, and packaging flexibility the next-gen hybrid system is aimed to deliver better performance and superior towing capability than standard gasoline cars, while improving fuel economy.
Super-ONE prototype built to demonstrate how EVs can be distinctive and fun.
Interestingly, even the Super-ONE Prototype, which signalled Honda's intent to provide feasible urban mobility option gave a sense of the nimbleness and agility akin to a ‘hot hatch’.
Next-Generation Honda Midsize Platform
This new platform is work-in-progress to realise increased body rigidity while reducing weight. A high level modular architecture will enable greater parts commonality and control production costs, says Honda. This will enhance the “joy of driving” – something that the car maker was historically known for.
Honda claims to have created a benchmark for driving stability with this shift to rigidity management. This will dramatically enhance vehicle performance. With optimised body rigidity, overall weight can now be reduced by using suitable material at specific places. Also, Honda engineers are said to have developed a technique that allows the body to flex, marginally, under limits. This will help the car can control the load on each tyre, eg. during cornering, for better grip. This new platform is thus 90 kg lighter than Honda's current architecture. This will mean better fuel economy and a more responsive feel.
Lightweight midsize platform promises to boost performance and efficiency.
The design separates modules like the engine room (which can be common across cars) from say, rear cabin. In fact, it is aiming for over 60 per cent parts commonality across all models that will use this platform thus reducing development as well as eventual production costs.
Some of the advanced systems incorporated include Motion Management System, which employs tech from Honda's robotics development and enables vehicle control systems to match driver's intent. Agile Handling Assist (AHA) that builds on the electronics control systems currently used in models such as the Accord and Prelude, and a new pitch control technology that supports faster cornering regardless of road conditions.
This is more for the US market. This system will allow more powerful driving performance with higher towing capacity, which is commonly needed there. All of these while keeping emissions in check, which is one of the issues highlighted with current lot of big, popular American SUVs and pick-ups.
New hybrid system for big Hondas tuned to deliver punchy performance.
For this, Honda has developed a new V6 engine that can meet future environmental regulations while offering a higher fuel efficiency resulting in fewer fuel stops. For this it will also offer new electric drive units and a battery pack engineered for better range than on current models. Also, cost-effectiveness. Honda says the aim is to improve acceleration by 10 per cent and fuel efficiency by 30 per cent.
Honda Compact EVs
The Japanese car maker’s first production EV was the Honda e based on the Urban EV concept. Last year it showcased a compact production EV that was meant for commercial purpose. Called N-VAN e:, it was built on a Kei car platform (sub 3.5m long) with the same name. But the Super One concept that debuted this year at the JMS, takes this a bit further and also showcases Honda’s intent of making a significantly different urban EV that doesn’t look like a me-too effort.
The production model, built under the "e: Dash BOOSTER” concept, is designed to transform daily travel into an exhilarating and uplifting experience by offering an enjoyable drive complete with simulated noise. Honda hopes to take it to showrooms in Japan by as early as 2026. This will be followed by launches in the UK and other Asian countries where demand for nimble, small EVs is high. Currently, India is not on the agenda with this one.
Super-ONE hatchback is currently not on the agenda for India.
A lightweight body and ICE-inspired drive were highlights of the pre-production model that we drove. While battery tech will be core to this like an EV, Honda engineers seem to have not compromised on drive dynamics. The key structural elements that they have focused on include an optimised body that is built upon a lightweight foundation of its previous N Series platform. Honda claims this will be the lightest body in the A segment. It uses a dedicated chassis with widened tread and fenders for stability. Also, lower centre of gravity compared to a similarly proportioned ICE car as the heaviest component – a slim battery pack – sits low and centrally in the underbody.
The Super-ONE features a "Boost Mode”. This instantly increases power output on demand, unleashing the full performance potential of the power unit. For effect, a simulated 7-speed transmission effect is generated alongside a powerful engine ‘sound’. The gearshift feel does mimic a conventional automatic. It calculates simulated engine speed (estimated RPM) and gear positions in real-time based on accelerator position and driving conditions. The simulation goes 4D by reproducing the physical feedback of a traditional vehicle, including the "kickdown" shock not only during acceleration but also while decelerating – similar to engine-braking.
Future’s Joyful?
We’d like to believe so. Honda is trying to improve all aspects of its hybrid system and the EV platform, with a plan to start adopting them from a group of next-generation models to be introduced globally from 2027 onwards. As mentioned on carandbike.com earlier, India is now one of the three focus markets for Honda alongside Japan and the USA. A total of 10 new models are earmarked for launch in the next few years with 7 of them being SUVs. These will be a mix of global imports as well as made-for-India models that will be manufactured in India.
Production version of 0 Alpha will be launched in India in 2027.
We are given to believe that some technologies on display at the Tech Day, such as the H-RV small hybrid system and products such as Prelude sportscar may have a chance on being seen on Indian roads in the future soon. The latter more of a halo product approach rather than any number game. Moreover, the Tech Day displays must give hope to hardcore Honda fans who might be ruing the ‘domestication’ of the Japanese brand that was born out of a love for performance. Although the action starts only in 2027, Honda is one brand to watch out for. As they say, better late than never.
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MV Agusta has taken the wraps off the limited edition 2026 Brutale Serie Oro, which features the latest-generation three-cylinder 950 Evo engine platform. The 931cc three-cylinder engine with counter rotating crankshaft was created for the Enduro Veloce, but has been heavily re-engineered before being fitted into the frame of the Brutale Serie Oro. Along with the new engine, the 2026 MV Agusta Brutale Serie Oro also sports a new swingarm, as well as top-spec components, including Ohlins suspension and Brembo Hypure front calipers.
A new head to the 950 Evo, new ducts, new Termignoni exhaust all work together to achieve 148 bhp at 11,200 rpm and peak torque of 107 Nm at 8,400 rpm. According to MV Agusta, 85 per cent of the torque is available at 3,500 rpm. There’s a new slipper and torque-assist clutch to reduce lever effort, and there’s a refined quickshifter for faster, smoother gear changes.
The mixed structure frame with tubular trellis and aluminium side plates remain unchanged, while the steering angle has been opened by one degree and softened in flexibility for better handling. The single-sided swingarm has been lengthened by 30 mm, and forged wheels, Ohlins suspension with NIX 30 fork, and TTX 36 monoshock take care of suspension duties.
The new 5-inch TFT display is connected and offers turn-by-turn navigation and five customisable riding modes – Rain, Urban, Sport, Race and Custom. The cornering ABS modes, traction levels and throttle response can also be customised. Only 300 units of the MV Agusta Brutale Serie Oro will be produced in Varese, Italy.
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Moto Morini has brought back one of its beloved historic models, the Kanguro to the EICMA 2025, but in a modern, dual-sport avatar. With its slim profile and definite design nod to the 1980s, the Moto Morini Kanguro 300 intends to offer versatility and accessibility in a dual-sport adventure format – which sounds perfect for beginner ADV riders in our part of the world. With a 300cc single-cylinder engine rated at 33.5 bhp and 27 Nm, it promises to be fun, yet not quite overwhelming.
The Kanguro 300 is built around a frame made of steel, with an aluminium swingarm and rear subframe. It runs on a 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wire-spoke wheel set-up suspended from a 41 mm fork and a shock absorber at the rear with progressive linkage. Wheel travel at both ends is a decent 250 mm, and the ABS is switchable for slightly more adventurous riders who would want to lock up the rear wheel on dirt for more control, and more fun!
The Moto Morini Kanguro 300 will be offered in two versions – a base version with a high-mounted front fender, and a Rally version with a low fender and compact windshield. Kerb weight is pretty low with 145 kg for the base variant, and 153 kg for the Rally variant. Seat height is somewhat tall, at 880 mm. Moto Morini says the Kanguro 300 will be launched in the second half of 2026.
The original Moto Morini Kanguro was released in 1983 with a 350cc engine, followed by a cruiser version three years later in both 350cc and 500cc engine options, called the Excalibur.
The new Moto Morini Kanguro 300 has nailed the dual-sport look to the T, and with its lightweight construction and off-road ready hardware, it looks set to fuel the off-road dreams of many a beginner off-road rider around the world. The question now is – will it come to India? And if it does, will it generate interest in a market where enduro and dual-sport machines seem to be getting increasing attention these days.
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The new Hyundai Venue has officially gone on sale in India, and this is possibly the most feature-packed version of the sub-4-metre SUV so far. And yes, for the enthusiasts, there is a new Venue N-Line as well. As always, there are a bunch of variants on offer, about 8 to be specific, and based on engine and transmission choices, there are 17 different trims to choose from. Here’s what each of these variants has to offer!
Now, the Venue is offered in three engine options – 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol, offered with a 5-speed manual transmission, 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol that gets the option of a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed DCT automatic. Finally, there is also a 1.5-litre diesel, which, along with a 6-speed manual, now also gets a 6-speed automatic.
Hyundai Venue Variants Explained:
Hyundai Venue HX2
Exterior:
Black grille & body-coloured rear spoiler
15-inch steel wheels with single-tone wheel covers (1.2 P Only)
16-inch steel wheel with dual-tone wheel covers (1.0 P Only)
Projector headlamps with LED DRLs
LED taillamp & LED high-mounted stop lamp
The Venue is offered in three engine options – 1.2 petrol, 1.0 turbo petrol, 1.5 diesel
Interior:
Wide dual-screen display (10.25-inch infotainment / 10.66 digital cluster)
Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
4-speaker sound system and voice recognition
Tilt-adjustable power D-cut steering wheel with audio control
All-black interior and fabric upholstery
Adjustable headrest (front only)
Manual AC with rear AC vents
All 4 power windows
Safety:
6 airbags, ABS with EBD, & front disc brakes
Electronic stability control and vehicle stability management
Hill-start assist control (HAC)
3-point seatbelts for all, with a reminder and front pretensioners
ISOFIX child seat mounts
Emergency stop single
Speed-sensing door lock and impact-sensing door unlock
Royal Enfield’s electric mobility vertical Flying Flea has unveiled the scrambler-styled Flying Flea S6 at the EICMA 2025. The Flying Flea S6 features a high-torque motor and long suspension travel, along with an enduro-style seat and off-road ride mode with switchable ABS. According to Royal Enfield, the FF S6 combines lightweight structure with off-road ability which makes it an agile and versatile model for urban exploration.
The S6 joins the Flying Flea range, with the first FF product unveiled at the 2024 EICMA show, the Flying Flea C6. The company says the S6 is a significant and natural addition to the Flying Flea portfolio, combining a perfect blend of historic authenticity and modern capability. It is road-ready and trail-ready, with an upside-down front fork, a chain final drive, and a 19-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel set-up.
The FF S6 boasts of a long list of advanced riding features and tech, like integrated navigation, a dedicated off-road mode, lean-angle sensing ABS, traction control and more. At the core of the S6 is an in-house operating system, and a UI/UX built around the Qualcomm Snapdragon QWM2290 processor. Designed specifically for two-wheelers, this high performance chipset enables 4G, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity.
The S6 also features voice assist, through which the rider can give simple voice commands through a paired smartphone to initiate navigation, play music and more. The FF S6 also enables multi-modal connectivity, allowing riders to interact with the motorcycle via a smartwatch and a connected app. Keyless ride, ride modes, charging status and vehicle diagnostics can be remotely managed. The FF S6 is scheduled to be launched towards the end of 2026.
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Royal Enfield has taken the covers off the new Bullet 650, a 650cc addition to the iconic Royal Enfield Bullet model. The new Bullet 650 is based on the Royal Enfield Classic 650 and is the latest model to expand on the 650 Twins platform, first introduced in 2018 with the Interceptor 650 and the Continental GT 650. Although based on the Classic 650, the Bullet 650 has its distinctive elements, giving it its own identity as a ‘Bullet.’
The overall design takes inspiration from the iconic Bullet 350, Royal Enfield’s longest running model in the brand’s modern history, complete with the metallic Royal Enfield tank badge, hand-painted pin-striping on the bodywork and signature “tiger eyes” pilot lamps on the headlight assembly.
The side panels are signature ‘Bullet’ styling, and the single-piece seat is also a nod to its Bullet lineage. The instrument console is identical to the Classic 650, with the same analogue speedometer with a small digital screen with a fuel gauge, tripmeter and odometer. A Tripper navigation pod offers turn-by-turn navigation.
The new Royal Enfield Bullet 650 is powered by the same 648cc, air and oil-cooled, parallel-twin SOHC engine which produces 46.4 bhp at 7,250 rpm and 52.3 Nm of peak torque at 5,650 rpm. The engine is paired to a 6-speed gearbox with a slip and assist clutch which are also retained from the Classic 650.
Like the Classic 650, the Bullet 650 is also built around the same steel tubular spine frame with a 43 mm telescopic front fork with 120 mm wheel travel and twin rear shocks with 90 mm rear wheel travel. Dual-channel ABS is standard, and the Bullet 350 also runs on a 19-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel combination. Kerb weight is 243 kg with 90 per cent fuel and oil, identical to the Classic 650, and so is the 154 mm ground clearance and 14.8-litre fuel tank capacity.
The new Royal Enfield Bullet 650 has been unveiled in two colour options - Cannon Black and Battleship Blue. Prices for the new Royal Enfield Bullet 650 are expected to be announced at MotoVerse 2025, Royal Enfield’s annual festival in Goa later this month. We expect prices for the Bullet 650 to begin at around Rs. 3.75 lakh (Ex-showroom).
2025 Royal Enfield Bullet 650 Key Specifications:
Engine Type
Inline Twin-Cylinder 4-stroke SOHC
Displacement
647.95cc
Max Power
46.4 bhp at 7,250 rpm
Peak Torque
52.3 Nm at 5,650 rpm
Ground Clearance
154 mm
Seat Height
800 mm
Kerb Weight
243 kg
Fuel Tank Capacity
14.8 litres
Wheelbase
1475 mm
Brakes
Dual-channel ABS (320 mm front disc, 300 mm rear disc)
Watch the Royal Enfield Classic 650 Video Review:
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Hyundai recently revealed the next-generation Venue and its sportier N Line version, with the price announcement slated for today, November 4, 2025. The popular compact SUV has entered its second generation with a fresh design, revamped interiors, and a noticeable bump in features and tech.
In the run-up to the launch, Hyundai has been gradually sharing details about the Venue and its variant lineup. The petrol variants include HX2, HX4, HX5, HX6, HX6T, HX8, and HX10, while the diesel versions will be offered in HX2, HX5, HX7, and HX10 trims. The N Line, meanwhile, will come in two trims, N6 (available with both manual and DCT gearboxes) and N10 (DCT only).
Hyundai India has launched the much-awaited second-gen Venue with prices starting from Rs 7.90 lakh (ex-showroom). The new subcompact SUV gets a notably different design compared to its predecessor, grows in size, and packs in a lot more tech than before as well. The Venue is now 30 mm wider, 48 mm taller and sits on a 20 mm longer wheelbase.
Starting with the exterior, the new Venue’s fascia looks to draw inspiration from the current Creta and Alcazar with a layered design replete with high-set DRLs and a light bar and a slim rectangular grille flanking new stacked projector headlamps which also feature integrated DRLs. The standard Venue gets a chunky-looking bumper with a large faux skid plate, while the N Line’s unit looks sleeker with more use of black plastics on the lower bumper.
Down the sides, the new Venue gets a larger glasshouse along with more prominent wheel arches. There notable use of black cladding along the lower doors and wheel arches to add to the SUV’s looks in the standard variants. The N Line, meanwhile, features lesser cladding on the doors and drops the wheel arch cladding entirely while also featuring a red accent on the lower body to add to its sportier looks. In fully loaded guise, the standard Venue gets 16-inch alloy wheels while the N Line gets sportier 17-inch units.
The rear, meanwhile, is characterised by a roof-mounted spoiler, a sleek connected tail lamps and a chunky bumper. The N Line adds some sportier detailing, such as a unique twin spoiler atop the tailgate and a sportier bumper replete with a twin-tip exhaust outlet.
The cabin gets an all-new design as well, in line with other new Hyundais with twin 12.3-inch screens atop the dashboard in a single curved display. There’s a new steering wheel design too, though neither the Venue nor Venue N Line features the stylised ‘H’ logo in the centre. The H logo has been replaced by the four-dot logo seen on Hyundai’s EVs in the standard Venue while the N Line gets its own variant-specific unit with a N logo in the centre and drive mode and traction mode controls integrated into the steering spokes. The standard Venue is offered with new dual-tone ‘dark navy’ & ‘dove grey’ colour scheme while the N Line gets an all-black cabin with red highlights.
Moving to the tech, the new Venue will pack in a more advanced Level 2 advanced drive assistance tech, electronic parking brake, regular-size electric sunroof, ventilated front seats, 360-degree cameras, auto dimming IRVM, powered driver seat, 6 airbags, ESC, traction control with selectable modes, drive modes and more.
On the powertrain front, the Venue carries forward the 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol, 1.0-litre turbo-petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engine options from before. The 1.2 petrol will be offered with a 5-speed manual gearbox as standard, while the turbo-petrol will come with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DCT automatic with paddle shifters. The 1.5 diesel, meanwhile, will be offered with a 6-speed manual as standard and the option for a 6-speed torque converter automatic for the first time. The Venue N Line, meanwhile, will only be offered with the turbo-petrol engine option with both manual and automatic gearbox options.
In terms of fuel efficiency, Hyundai claims the diesel mill is good for 20.99 kmpl in manual and 17.9 kmpl in automatic guise. The naturally aspirated petrol is good for 18.05 kmpl while the turbo petrol delivers 18.74 kmpl in manual guise and 20 kmpl with the DCT.
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Mahindra has shared the first teaser for its latest ‘Born Electric’ SUV ahead of its debut on November 27. Badged the XEV 9S, it will be Mahindra’s first all-electric seven-seater and was originally previewed by the XUV.e8 concept back in 2022.
Mahindra has teased the new XEV 9S electric SUV ahead of its debut on November 27!
- Built on INGLO platform
- First three-row electric SUV from Mahindra
- Could get AWD option
- Will take on the Harrier EV
The teaser provides glimpses of the SUV’s design, though spy shots of test mules provide a cleaner look at the design. The XEV 9S is set to share a distinct similarity with the Mahindra XUV700 - something evident in the original prototype from 2022 and in subsequent leaks over the years. Up front, the SUV will get the familiar XEV fascia design as seen on the 9e with inverted L-shaped DRLs connected via a lightbar and stacked projector headlamps. An enclosed grille is also visible in the short teaser video, as are glimpses of the sides and rear.
Moving to the cabin, the new XEV 9S is expected to mirror the 9e in terms of overall looks with a tri-screen display spanning the width of the dashboard. The SUV is also expected to get almost all the features of the coupe-SUV with some additional bits such as a sliding second row seat.
As with the XEV 9e, the 9S will be based on the INGLO platform and is expected to feature the same battery options as its coupe sibling. What is likely to change is the drivetrain, with previous leaked information suggesting that the 9S could get a dual-motor all-wheel-drive option on top variants.
The 9S is expected to be a direct rival to the likes of the Tata Harrier EV.
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Royal Enfield has teased the official unveil of the new Bullet 650 at the EICMA show in Milan, Italy, on November 4, 2025. The brand has released a short teaser video, showing the instrument console with the date of the unveil, as well as a caption saying, “a new chapter in motorcycling’s oldest legacy,” hinting to a new model in the Royal Enfield Bullet lineage with the 650 Twins platform. Although based on the Classic 650, the new Bullet 650 is expected to get some distinctive elements to give it its own identity.
The overall design is expected to take inspiration from the Bullet 350, complete with hand-painted pin stripes on the bodywork, as well as the same metallic tank badge as seen on the Bullet 450. A metallic nacelle on the headlight and signature “tiger eye” pilot lamps on the headlight assembly will also be retained.
The headlight assembly and instrument console is likely to be shared with the Classic 650
The instrument console revealed in the teaser video looks identical to the Classic 650’s, employing the same analogue speedometer with a small digital screen with fuel gauge, tripmeter and odometer. A Tripper navigation pod is also seen, which will offer turn-by-turn navigation. Considering it will be a “Bullet” a single-piece seat is expected instead of a split seat set-up that is used in the Classic 650.
The Bullet 650 will also share the same 648cc parallel-twin as the Classic 650
The new Royal Enfield Bullet 650 is expected to be powered by the same 648cc, air and oil-cooled, parallel-twin engine which produces 46.4 bhp and 52.3 Nm of peak torque. The 6-speed gearbox with a slip and assist clutch will also likely be retained. What is not clear at this stage is whether the engine will feature a new state of tune to make the Bullet 650's character more relaxed than the other RE 650s. The new Bullet 650 will make its debut at the EICMA 2025 show in Milan, and along with it, the Himalayan 750 will also be showcased.
Watch the Royal Enfield Classic 650 Video Review:
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