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Toyota has unveiled the new ninth-gen Hilux pick-up in global markets ahead of sales commencing next year. The new Hilux brings with it some very big changes, including the provision of an EV version for the first time ever, as well as the confirmation of a fuel-cell electric version set to arrive in 2028. Toyota has also confirmed that the Hilux will continue to be sold with internal combustion engine options as well, including a diesel mild hybrid option.
The new Hilux brings with it an all-new design with a layered front fascia and more sculpted surfacing compared to its predecessor. The slim main headlamps sit atop the fascia, connected by a black trim insert, feature the Toyota wordmark with the grille sitting lower, flanked by triangular vents on either side. Internal combustion models (pic above) feature a cheese-grater-style rectangular grille, with the unit closed off on the EV (pic below). The bumper design is rather busy to say the least, with swathes of cladding, a large central air vent, a skid plate element and fog lamps on the lower edge.
Moving to the sides, the new Hilux gets prominent squared out wheel arches front and rear, while the rear is characterised by vertical tail lamps with LED light guides and Toyota embossed across the tail gate. Toyota says that the new Hilux will solely be offered with a Double Cab design.
The cabin design looks to be inspired by other modern Toyota SUVs, featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a freestanding central touchscreen measuring up to 12.3 inches. The central air-con vents sit below and are underlined by a slim LED display and a row of physical buttons for air-con functions. Physical controls for the drive modes and off-road controls sit at the base of the centre stack. Toyota has also confirmed a host of safety tech for the new Hilux, including ADAS features such as Low Speed Acceleration Suppression, Proactive Driving Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring and an Emergency Driving Stop System.
Moving to the powertrain, the big news is the new Hilux BEV. The first-ever electric derivative of the pick-up will come with a 59.2 kWh battery paired with electric motors on each axle. Toyota claims torque outputs of 205 Nm and 269 Nm for the front and rear electric motor, respectively, though final power figures are awaited. Toyota says that the Hilux EV will have a range of up to 240 km on a full charge and will be able to carry payloads of up to 715 kg and tow loads of up to 1,600 kg.
On the internal combustion side, the Hilux will be offered with the tried and tested 2.7-litre petrol, and 2.8-litre diesel engines - the latter in standard and 48V mild-hybrid guise (similar to the Fortuner in India). Toyota says that the internal combustion model will be able to haul loads of up to 1 tonne as well as be capable of towing up to 3,500 kg.
Aside from the EV, another big change to the Hilux is the power steering. The company says that, depending on the market, the Hilux will be offered with either an electrically assisted power steering (a first for the Hilux) or a hydraulic unit.
Toyota has said that production fo the new Hilux will commence with the BEV at the end of the year with sales of the internal combustion models to start by mid 2026.
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Following the launch of the VF6 and VF7 SUVs in the Indian market, Vietnamese carmaker VinFast looks to be turning its attention to more new products for the Indian market. Aside from the entry-level VF3 expected to arrive in 2026, the company also looks to be eyeing a share of the electric MPV segment with the VinFast Limo Green that was unveiled in global markets early this year.
In terms of size, the Limo Green is closer to the size of the Toyota Innova HyCross, measuring in at 4740 mm long, 1872 mm wide and 1728 mm tall while sitting on a 2,840 mm wheelbase. The Hycross, in comparison, measures 4755 mm long, 1850 mm wide and 1790 mm tall and sits on a 2850 mm wheelbase. This makes it larger than both the new Kia Carens Clavis EV and even the more upmarket BYD eMax 7.
On the design side, the Limo Green clearly sports the family design with a pair of high-set daytime running lamps sitting high on the front fascia, stretching outwards from the central VinFast logo. The main headlamps are incorporated lower down on the bumper, and a large central air vent sits at the base of the fascia.
In profile, the discerning design features include a stretched window line with large rear quarter glasses and a gentle shoulder line running along the base of the windows. The rear lighting design mirrors elements of the front with lightguides extending out of a central VinFast Logo. Other notable design elements include a swath of black trim bisecting the rear mass in two, faux vents on the rear bumper and notable use of black cladding low down.
The cabin design, too, doesn’t deviate much from other VinFast models, with a large central touchscreen and the lack of a traditional instrument cluster (digital or analogue). The centre console follows a floating design and houses a rotary gear selector with storage space located underneath. A bench seat features in the second and third rows. The bigger news here is that the test mule of the Limo Green featured a right-hand drive layout, with the model on sale in Vietnam featuring left-hand drive.
On the specification front, the car launched in global markets, features a large 60 kWh battery paired with an electric motor driving the front wheels. The unit delivers a peak 201 bhp of power and 280 Nm of torque. The MPV also supports up to 11 kW AC and 80 kW DC Fast charging. VinFast claims a DC fast charging time of just 30 minutes for a 10-70 per cent charge. VinFast claims a NEDC range of 450 km on a full charge
The test model of the Limo Green arrives on Indian shores months after the company filed a design patent for the same in the Indian market. However, it remains to be seen if this will lead up to the MPV’s launch in the Indian market, where it could be positioned alongside the likes of the Kia Carens Clavis EV and BYD eMax 7.
Honda Motorcycles has announced new logos for its flagship and all-electric motorcycle ranges starting from 2026. The new logos mean that Honda’s two-wheeler range will feature three distinct logos based on their positioning and powertrain choice.
The existing ‘Red Wing’ logo is set to soldier on as the Product Mark for its internal combustion family, though the motorcycles themselves are set to feature two different logos. While a majority of the brand’s offerings will retain the Product Mark as the Product Emblem, going forward, the brand’s flagship models, such as the Fireblade, GoldWing and Rebel 1100 will get a new silver on black ‘Honda Flagship Wing’ logo.
The Honda V3R 900 E-Compressor prototype unveiled at EICMA 2025 featured the new Flagship Wing logo.
Replacing the current Silver Wing on a red background, the new logo will feature the silver wing on a black background. Honda says that the new logo will create ‘harmony with a wide variety of models and body colours’ and use recycled acrylic resin in its manufacturing. The new Honda Flagship Wing logo made its first public appearance on the brand’s V3R900 E-Compressor Prototype that was unveiled at EICMA 2025.
Honda, in the past year, marked its first foray into the electric two-wheeler space both in India and internationally. The company unveiled the new WN7 electric motorcycle in global markets, while in India, the brand launched the new Activa e and QC1 electric scooters. Now with plans to further expand in the EV space, the company has announced a new product mark and emblem that will feature on all EV-related press packages and the EVs themselves.
Going forward, the brand’s EV division will use a simple ‘Honda’ wordmark as its new logo. The company says that the brand will appear on its electric two-wheelers as well as dealerships, starting with the WN7 and will also feature in the company’s motorsport activities.
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Tata Motors has offered the clearest look yet at the exterior of the production-spec Sierra, ahead of its launch on November 25. The upcoming model marks the return of one of Tata’s most iconic nameplates, with the carmaker gradually dropping teasers of the upcoming model. The latest set of images offers the first clear look at its exterior, particularly the front fascia and side profile.
Visually, the production-spec Sierra appears quite close to the near-production model displayed at Auto Expo 2025. The boxy silhouette, full-width LED lighting, and two-tone finish have been retained. Some of the changes noted include a fingerprint sensor on the flush fitting door handles, slightly reworked wheel arches and a fresh design for the alloy wheels. The front-end mirrors the model showcased earlier. The rear is expected to feature a connected light bar stretching across the tailgate.
Previous teaser provided a swift look at the Sierra’s interior, showcasing a three-screen dashboard layout that includes a digital driver display, a large central infotainment unit, and an additional co-driver screen. Other visible interior highlights include a four-spoke steering wheel with mounted controls and an illuminated Tata logo, touch-sensitive backlit controls, and a dual-tone grey-and-black cabin theme.
As for features, the Sierra is expected to get ventilated seats, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, six airbags, and an electronic parking brake. The lane-departure warning icon visible in the teaser also confirms that the production model will come equipped with ADAS functions.
Coming to powertrain, the Sierra is expected to debut Tata’s Hyperion 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine, while the 2.0-litre turbo-diesel from the Harrier and Safari is likely to continue for the diesel variant. Both manual and automatic transmission options are expected to be available.
Tata Motors will launch an all-electric version of the Sierra in the following months. This is expected to share its battery options with its stablemates in Tata’s electric SUV lineup.
Following our previous exclusive report about the Hero Xtreme 125R gaining the same rider aids and tech as the Glamour X, Hero MotoCorp has now quietly launched a new top-spec variant of the motorcycle in India. The new variant is priced at Rs 1.04 lakh (ex-showroom), placing it at the top of the Xtreme 125R range.
The new variant comes loaded with the same suite of features introduced on the Glamour X. It gets a ride-by-wire throttle, enabling cruise control, along with three riding modes – Eco, Road, and Power – and a new colour 4.2-inch LCD. Importantly, this new variant also offers disc brakes at both ends along with dual-channel ABS.
Similar to the Glamour X setup, the Xtreme 125R features a dedicated cruise control switch on the right. A ride mode selector and menu navigation buttons are also included on the left cube.
To differentiate this top-spec model from the rest of the lineup, Hero has introduced three new dual-tone colour options: Red, Grey, and Green, each paired with contrasting black accents.
Under the skin, it remains unchanged. It continues to be powered by a 124.7 cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine, shared with the Glamour X, producing 11.4 bhp at 8,250 rpm and 10.5 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm, mated to a 5-speed gearbox.
With the launch of this new variant, the Xtreme 125R lineup now consists of four versions: the base IBS (Rs 89,000), ABS (Rs 92,500), ABS with single seat (Rs 92,500), and the new Dual-Channel ABS variant priced at Rs 1.04 lakh (all prices ex-showroom).
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In late September 2025, Aprilia announced that it would absorb the GST 2.0-related price hike, keeping the Tuono 457 at its original price of Rs 3.95 lakh. The RS 457, however, saw a Rs 15,000 increase, though the addition of a bi-directional quickshifter more than balanced out the hike. A few months on, the brand has now quietly updated prices for both models and the 457 twins have seen an upward revision.
The RS 457 now costs Rs 4.50 lakh, which is up by Rs 15,000 from its earlier price of Rs 4.35 lakh (pre-GST 2.0 price – Rs 4.20 lakh). Its sibling, the Tuono 457, has also become dearer by Rs 29,000, and it is now priced at Rs 4.24 lakh compared to the previous Rs 3.95 lakh (all prices ex-showroom). Moreover, Aprilia has not yet issued an official statement regarding the reason for the price increase.
Both the Tuono 457 and RS 457 are powered by the same 457cc parallel-twin engine, producing 47 bhp and 43.5 Nm. The engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox, and both models offer a slipper clutch. Additionally, electronic rider aids are consistent across both models, including three ride modes, traction control, and ABS.
In other news, Aprilia has given the RS 457 its MotoGP treatment with the unveiling of the GP Replica variant at EICMA 2025. The RS 457 GP Replica sports the official RS-GP MotoGP team livery and gets factory sponsor decals with red and silver accents. The Tuono 457, on the other hand, has also received a new livery, which was displayed at the Motor Show in Milan.
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Aprilia has expanded its range of MotoGP-inspired two-wheelers with the unveiling of the RS 457 GP Replica at EICMA 2025. The new edition follows the same pattern as the SR-GP Replica 175, which was launched in the Indian market earlier this year. This edition essentially brings race-bike styling cues to Aprilia’s most accessible parallel-twin motorcycles.
At first glance, it may seem to be mirroring the standard striped colour scheme, but a closer look reveals several details that set it apart. The RS 457 GP Replica sports the official RS-GP MotoGP team livery, finished in a mix of glossy and matte paintwork across different panels. The fairing and bodywork are adorned with factory sponsor decals with red and silver accents.
As standard, the GP Replica edition includes a pillion seat cowl and a bidirectional quickshifter, both of which are offered as accessories on the standard model. Aprilia has also made a subtle change to the braking setup, with front brake pads featuring a higher friction compound to deliver stronger initial bite and improved braking consistency.
Mechanically, the RS 457 GP Replica remains identical to the standard model. It continues to be powered by a 457 cc, liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, producing 47 bhp and 43.5 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed gearbox and slipper clutch. The bike also retains its electronics suite, offering three ride modes, adjustable traction control, and dual-channel ABS.
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Ducati has launched the updated Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak in India at Rs 36.17 lakh (ex-showroom). Positioned second from the top of the Multistrada lineup, the Pikes Peak version is a performance-focused iteration of the V4 and comes at a premium of Rs 5.55 lakh over the V4 S. The difference gets you higher-spec components and changes to the ergonomics, among a few tech upgrades.
The updated Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak continues with the 1,158 cc V4 Granturismo engine, which is E20-compliant and shared with the rest of the Multistrada range. The engine produces 168 bhp at 10,750 rpm and 123.8 Nm of peak torque. It also incorporates the cylinder deactivation system introduced with the updated standard Multistrada V4, which shuts off the rear cylinder bank at low speeds to help reduce heat and improve efficiency. It reactivates when power is needed.
The Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak has a familiar design language of the Multistrada family, while the update brings along a few visual updates. The motorcycle is finished in a new “Pikes Peak” livery, which takes inspiration from Ducati’s MotoGP, Superbike, and Motocross machines, complete with number panels on the side fairings. Additional design details include carbon-fibre components, a titanium Akrapovic exhaust, a low-smoke windscreen, and gold-anodised Ohlins fork tubes. The seat design incorporates the V4 logo and a Ducati Corse emblem on the front cowl.
The Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak gets revised ergonomics compared to the standard model. The footpegs are placed higher and further back, while the handlebars are lower, narrower, and have a flatter bend.
One of the key differences in the Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak lies in its premium hardware. The bike is equipped with Ohlins Smart EC 2.0 electronic suspension. Similar to the setup on the Panigale V4 S and Streetfighter V4 S, this automatically adjusts damping based on rider inputs and real-time conditions. Braking components include dual 330 mm front discs and a 280 mm rear disc. It rides on a 17-inch front wheel and gets a single-sided swingarm, both of which distinguish it within the lineup.
The new Pikes Peak also sports an upgraded suite of electronic systems. Working with a six-axis inertial platform, Ducati has added a new DVO (Ducati Vehicle Observer) feature that can simulate data from up to 70 virtual sensors. This is claimed to provide a refined operation of systems such as Cornering ABS, Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC), and Ducati Traction Control (DTC). The package also includes Engine Brake Control (EBC) with three adjustment levels and an Electronic Combined Braking System.
As standard, the Pikes Peak is equipped with radar-based rider assistance features, including Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Blind Spot Detection (BSD), and a new Forward Collision Warning (FCW) function. Additional features include Ducati Cornering Lights (DCL) and a 6.5-inch colour TFT display with an updated interface that allows riders to adjust suspension settings independently.
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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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