Auto Sales: Mercedes-Benz Sales Decline 3 Per Cent; 19,007 Units Sold In CY2025

Following years of growing sales in the Indian market, Mercedes-Benz ended calendar year 2025 with sales down 2.8 per cent year-on-year. The carmaker reported total sales of 19,007 units in CY2025 - down from 19,565 units in CY2024. The carmaker reported a growth in sales across several of its segments, including top-end vehicles (TEVs), EVs and its AMG series, though sales in the entry luxury segment declined 20 per cent year-on-year. The company, however, said that despite a reduction in overall sales, 2025 was its best-ever year in terms of revenue in the market.
 

Also read: India-Made Mercedes-Maybach GLS Launched At Rs 2.75 Crore
 

Commenting on the brand’s performance, Santosh Iyer, MD & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, said, “We have delivered another best-ever year in terms of revenue growth, buoyed by high affinity amongst discerning customers, reflected in the strong growth in the TEV segment as well in top-end BEVs. Our strategy of focusing on ‘value over volume’ and offering high product substance keeps the customer experience at the core, while ensuring customers continue to enjoy a feature-rich product and retain high Residual Value for their Mercedes-Benz.”
 

TEVs, Electric Vehicle Range Report Year-on-Year Growth
 

Also read: 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLB SUV Makes Global Debut; EV Offers Up To 631 km Range
 

While overall sales declined, Mercedes-Benz India reported strong double-digit growth for its TEV range comparison models, including the S-Class, GLS, EQS, as well as the carmaker’s Maybach and AMG Series. Sales of TEVs were up 11 per cent year-on-year. Mercedes said that TEVs accounted for around 25 per cent of all units sold in 2025, with India now one of the top 5 markets for its Maybach sub-brand.
 

As for the AMG brand, Mercedes reported a year-on-year sales growth of 34 per cent year-on-year.
 

Also read: Mercedes-Benz Vision Iconic Concept Is A Retro-Inspired Electric GT
 

On the EV front, Mercedes reported that 20 per cent of all units sold in 2025 were electric vehicles. Of these, 70 per cent of sales came from models in the TEV segment - i.e., models such as the EQS, Maybach EQS and the G 580 EV. EV sales overall reported a growth of 12 per cent year-on-year. The EQS SUV was the brand’s best-selling electric car in 2025.
 

Core Segment Remains Highest Sales Contributor; Entry Luxury Segment Shrinks
 

Focusing on the segments below TEVs, Mercedes-Benz India revealed that its Core model series - comprising models such as the C-Class, GLC, E-Class and GLE- accounted for 62 per cent of all units sold. The company claimed that the E-Class remained the ‘highest selling luxury car’ in the market in CY2025.
 

Also read: Mercedes-Benz G 450d Diesel Launched In India At Rs 2.90 Crore
 

The strong performance in the TEV and Core segments, however, was offset by declining sales in the Entry Luxury segment, housing models such as the A-Class, GLA and GLB. The segment reported a 20 per cent decline in sales year-on-year, with total contribution to sales down from 20 per cent in CY2024 to 13 per cent in CY2025.
 

12 New Model Launches Planned For 2026
 

Mercedes-Benz also revealed its plans for the Indian market for 2026, with 12 new model launches lined up for the year. This will include the all-new CLA Electric that made its global debut early last year.
 

Also Read: Mercedes-Benz C-Class EV Previewed Ahead Of 2026 Debut

“2026 will be an action-packed year with 12 new product introductions, expansion of our local production portfolio, the launch of the MB.Charge Public, expansion into new markets and investment in upgrading our entire network,” Iyer said.
 

The carmaker has kicked off 2026 with the launch of the locally assembled Maybach GLS SUV, making India the first market outside of the US to locally assemble the flagship luxury SUV. The carmaker also introduced a special edition of the EQS SUV.

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Bajaj Chetak C25 Launched In India; Prices Start From Rs 91,399

Bajaj has expanded the Chetak electric scooter family with its most affordable series yet - the C25. Priced at Rs 91,399 (ex-showroom, including PM e-drive subsidy), the new C2501 sits below the 30 and 35 series and is the first Chetak model to feature a hub-mounted electric motor.

 

Also read: Updated Bajaj Pulsar 150 Launched At Rs 1.09 Lakh: Gets LED Lighting, New Colours
 

The motor develops a peak output of 2.2 kW (1.8 kW in continuous usage) and gives the electric scooter a top speed of 55 kmph. The motor is paired with a 2.5 kWh battery that gives the scooter a claimed range of up to 113 km. As for charging, the scooter comes with a 750W off-board charger that can charge the battery from 0-80% in 2 hours and 25 minutes, or up to 100% in about 3 hours and 45 minutes.

 

Also Read: Updated Bajaj Pulsar 220F Does Not Get Dual-Channel ABS; Company Issues Clarification
 

Moving to the design, the Chetak C25 series also features a metal body shell, as on its more expensive siblings, with the overall design still identifiable as a Chetak. However, look closer, and you notice some of the design changes. The front apron gets a revised design with the indicators now housed alongside the headlamps on the cowling. The side panels also get an altered design. Around the rear, the twin light clusters of the 30 and 35 series have been replaced by a single edge-to-edge unit.

 

Also Read: Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Vs Bajaj Dominar 400 Comparison Review
 

C2501 gets 25 litres underseat storage.

 

The suspension set-up, too, is changed with the C25 featuring a telescopic fork up front and twin shocks at the rear. The 30 and 35 series, meanwhile features a leading link set-up at the front and a monoshock at the rear. As with its siblings, the C25 continues to feature a front disc brake.
 

Colour LCD instrument cluster in line with its siblings.

 

On the feature front, the C25 comes with a colour LCD instrument cluster, LED DRL, Bluetooth connectivity, a reverse mode and 25 litres of underseat storage. The optional TecPac, meanwhile, adds features such as hill hold, two ride modes, Guide Me Home lights, and music controls.

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India-Made Mercedes-Maybach GLS Launched At Rs 2.75 Crore

Mercedes-Benz India has launched the locally assembled Maybach GLS at an ex-showroom price of Rs 2.75 crore, which is Rs 42 lakh lower than the earlier imported version priced at Rs 3.17 crore. With the Maybach GLS now being assembled in India, this makes it the first market outside the United States where the model is locally built. 

  

The Maybach GLS currently on sale was last updated in India in 2024 and continues with design changes introduced at that time. These include a revised grille with chrome slats, updated front and rear bumpers, redesigned LED headlamps and tail-lamps, and differentiated exhaust outlets. The SUV retains the 22-inch alloy wheels, while two new 23-inch wheel designs are offered as optional extras. 

  

Powering the Maybach GLS 600 is a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine rated at 550 bhp, supported by an integrated starter generator that contributes an additional 22 bhp and 250 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Mercedes-Benz claims a 0-100 kmph acceleration time of 4.9 seconds, with the top speed electronically limited to 250 kmph. 

  

The luxury SUV comes equipped with Airmatic air suspension as standard, while the E-Active Body Control system with a dedicated Maybach mode is available as an optional feature. Other equipment includes Level 2 advanced driver assistance systems, 360-degree cameras, active parking assist and the Guard 360 vehicle protection package. 

  

Aside from the launch, Mercedes-Benz India reported deliveries of 19,007 units in calendar year 2025. While volumes were marginally lower than the previous year, the company stated that it recorded its highest annual revenue to date. Entry, Core and Top-End models contributed 13 per cent, 62 per cent and 25 per cent of total sales, respectively. 

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Tata Punch Facelift Launched At Rs 5.59 Lakh; Gets Turbo-Petrol Engine Option

Tata Motors has launched the much-anticipated Punch facelift in India with prices starting from Rs 5.59 lakh (ex-showroom). The popular micro-SUV has received some notable updates, including a design more in line with its larger SUV siblings as well as new features and, more crucially, a new turbo-petrol engine option. Prices for the turbo-petrol start from Rs 8.29 lakh (ex-showroom).

 

Also read: Tata Punch Facelift Variants, Key Features Revealed
 

Unveiled ahead of its launch, a few weeks back, the Punch facelift gets a more squared-out design compared to its EV sibling, though the overall look remains close to Tata’s family SUV design. There are new angular DRLs atop the fascia connected via a slim black closed-off grille, while the main headlamps and fog lamps are integrated into triangular housings lower on the bumper. There notable use of plastic cladding as well on the front bumper to give it a more muscular stance.

 

Also read: Tata Safari Petrol vs Mahindra XUV 7XO : Specs, Features Compared
 

Down the sides, the Punch gets new wheel designs, while around the back, the older car’s simple tail maps make way for new, larger units with an integrated lightbar.
 

The cabin too gets some updates, including a new digital instrument cluster on top variants with a 7.0-inch colour display at the centre, while the air-con controls are now similar to those on the Nexon and Curvv. The upholstery colours, too, have been changed.
 

Also read: Tata Harrier, Safari Petrol Launched In India: Prices Start From Rs 12.89 Lakh
 

On the feature front, the Punch now packs in kit such as a 360-degree camera, blind spot monitoring, a 10.25-inch HD touchscreen, connected car tech, a voice-activated sunroof, a wireless phone charger, an auto-dimming IRVM and connected car tech in the fully loaded spec. The Punch is offered in six trim levels - Smart, Pure, Pure+, Adventure, Accomplished and Accomplished+ S.
 

On the powertrain front, the biggest updates is the new turbo-petrol engine. Buyers of the top variants of the Punch can now opt for the 1.2-litre Revotron turbo-petrol mill from the Nexon in Tata’s smallest SUV. The unit is good for 118 bhp and 170 Nm and is paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox.
 

Also read: 2026 Tata Harrier & Safari 1.5 Hyperion Review: By The Power Of Petrol!
 

The other significant update is the option for a CNG AMT powertrain, first introduced with the Tiago and Tigor, alongside the standard-fit manual transmission. The AMT gearbox also features paddle shifters, likely in an effort to enhance the driving experience. The old 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol too is carried forward and is offered with both manual and AMT units.

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Tata Punch Facelift Launch Tomorrow: What To Expect

Tata Motors is set to launch the 2026 Punch facelift in India tomorrow. The Punch has been on sale in India since October 2021, with the SUV only having received minor tech upgrades over the years. The 20206 model is the first comprehensive mid-cycle update to the micro SUV and brings with it notable changes to the design as well as new powertrain options.
 

Also Read: Tata Punch Facelift Revealed Ahead Of January 13 Launch

 

Styling

The update brings the internal combustion Punch’s design in line with its siblings. The micro SUV looks more squared out than its EV sibling, with a black-finished enclosed grille flanking new angular LED daytime running lamps. The headlamps and foglamps sit low on the bumper within angular housings on the bumper - in line with other Tata SUVs. The ICE Punch’s bumper also looks a lot more prominent than before with notable use of cladding and silver skid plate elements.
 

 

Also read: Tata Punch Facelift Variants, Key Features Revealed
 

The rear design, meanwhile, also gets a new look with a connected tail lamp set up in place of the older car’s small tri-arrow pattern tail lamps.
 

Interior
 

Moving to the cabin, the basic design has stayed unchanged, though there are still some updates. The central air-con vents get a revamped surround with the hazard light switch - previously located between the vents - moved lower down on the centre console. The air-con unit from the old Punch also makes way for the unit used by the Nexon and Curvv with touch-sensitive buttons and physical toggle switches.
 

The digital instrument cluster has also been updated with the facelift, getting a new unit with a 7.0-inch colour display flanked by LED readouts for fuel, etc. The fabric colours, too, have changed.
 

Features

On the feature front, the Punch will get some new features, with the most notable feature addition being the availability of a 360-degree camera.
 

Also Read: Tata Punch Facelift To Get Turbo-Petrol Engine Option

 

Powertrain
 

On the powertrain front, the Punch will get the option for a turbocharged petrol engine for the first time ever. Tata has confirmed a new iTurbo variant for the micro SUV, replete with a 6-speed manual gearbox. The new engine is likely to be either the 1.2-litre Revotron unit from the Nexon or Tata could look to add its new 1.2-litre Hyperion unit from the Curvv in the micro SUV. The existing 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol and CNG engine options are set to carry forward unchanged.
 

Also Read: Tata Punch Facelift Teased Ahead Of Launch On January 13

 

Price

 

Expect Tata to hike prices of the Punch following the update. Prices for the micro SUV currently range from Rs 5.50 lakh to Rs 9.30 lakh (ex-showroom), with prices for the facelifted micro SUV likely to start from around Rs 5.90 lakh, and top variants to hover around Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom).

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KTM RC 160 vs Yamaha R15: Specifications, Features, Prices Compared

KTM India finally launched the RC 160 at an ex-showroom price of Rs 1.85 lakh. The RC 160 is positioned as the entry-level model in the brand’s supersport RC range, and its chief rival in the Indian market is the incredibly popular Yamaha R15, which also most recently received a price cut of Rs 5,000. With that, let’s see how the two stack up against each other on paper.

 

KTM RC 160 vs Yamaha R15: Specification Check

 

	KTM RC 160	Yamaha R15
Engine	164.2 cc liquid cooled single	155 cc liquid cooled single
Max Power	18.74 bhp @ 9,500 rpm	18.10 bhp @ 10,000 rpm
Peak Torque	15.5 Nm @ 7,500 rpm	14.2 Nm @7,500 rpm
Gearbox	6-speed	6-speed
Kerb Weight	155 kg	141 kg
Power-to-weight ratio	121 bhp per tonne	128 bhp per tonne

 

On paper, the KTM RC 160 has a small advantage over the Yamaha R15 in terms of outright output. Its 164.2 cc engine is slightly larger and puts out 18.74 bhp, brushing past the R15’s 18.10 bhp. The KTM also makes more torque at 15.5 Nm, compared to the R15’s 14.2 Nm, with both engines delivering peak torque at the same 7,500 rpm.

 

The Yamaha R15, however, reaches its peak power higher in the rev range at 10,000 rpm, while the RC 160 does so at 9,500 rpm. Both motorcycles come equipped with a six-speed gearbox equipped with a slip-and-assist clutch. Even though the KTM RC 160 makes slightly more power, the Yamaha R15 ends up with the better power-to-weight ratio because it is significantly lighter.

KTM RC 160 vs Yamaha R15: Dimensions and Weight

 

	KTM RC 160	Yamaha R15
Kerb Weight	155 kg	141 kg
Seat Height	830 mm	815 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity	13.75 litres	11 litres
Wheelbase	1347 mm	1,325 mm
Ground Clearance	168 mm	170 mm

The KTM RC 160 is the heavier motorcycle, with a kerb weight of 155 kg, compared to the Yamaha R15’s 141 kg. The RC 160 also sits taller with an 830 mm seat height, while the R15’s seat height is lower at 815 mm. KTM offers a larger 13.75-litre fuel tank, giving it an edge here, whereas the R15 makes do with an 11-litre tank. In terms of size, the RC 160 has a longer 1,347 mm wheelbase compared to the R15’s 1,325 mm, while ground clearance is nearly identical, with the Yamaha holding a marginal advantage at 170 mm over the KTM’s 168 mm.

 

KTM RC 160 vs Yamaha R15: Cycle Parts

 

	KTM RC 160	Yamaha R15
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	282 mm
Brakes rear	230 mm	220 mm

 
Both the KTM RC 160 and the Yamaha R15 use a similar suspension layout, with upside-down front forks and a rear monoshock setup. Where they begin to differ is in their rolling gear and braking hardware.

 

The RC 160 runs a wider 110/70-17 front tyre compared to the R15’s 100/80-17 unit, while both bikes share a 140-section rear tyre, though the Yamaha uses a taller 70-profile. Braking hardware also favours the KTM on paper, with a larger 320 mm front disc versus the R15’s 282 mm unit, and a slightly bigger 230 mm rear disc compared to the Yamaha’s 220 mm.

KTM RC 160 vs Yamaha R15: Features

 

When it comes to features, the KTM RC 160 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.

 

As for the R15, the mid-spec variant in question features a fully digital negative LCD instrument console, along with a basic Bluetooth connectivity system. The lighting here is LED for the headlights and taillights, while the indicators utilise conventional bulbs.

 

KTM RC 160 vs Yamaha R15: Prices

	KTM RC 160	Yamaha R15 V4
Prices (ex-showroom)	Rs 1.85 lakh	Rs 1.66 lakh - Rs 1.81 lakh

 

In terms of price, the KTM RC 160 is priced at Rs 1.85 lakh (ex-showroom), which is Rs 19,000 higher than the Yamaha R15 V4, priced at Rs 1.66 lakh (ex-showroom). On paper, the RC 160 posts slightly higher engine output and runs wider tyres with larger brakes, while the R15 V4 counters with a lower asking price and a broader feature list. 

Lastly, the Yamaha R15 also offers a greater choice, with multiple variants on sale, unlike the RC 160, which is available in a single trim. Stepping up to the top-spec R15M, priced at Rs 1.81 lakh, adds features like traction control, an up-only quickshifter and a colour TFT display, while still undercutting the RC 160 by around Rs 4,000.

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Kawasaki Ninja, Versys Models Offered With Discounts Of Up To Rs 2.50 Lakh

Kawasaki India is currently offering discounts across a wide range of its motorcycles, with benefits going up to Rs 2.50 lakh on select Ninja models. The offers were announced through the company’s official social media channels and will remain valid until January 31, 2026. Alongside the Ninja lineup, two of the models from the Versys range are also included in the scheme.

 

Also Read: 2026 Kawasaki Versys 650, Vulcan S, Z650RS Launched: Now E20 Compatible

The highest discount is on the Ninja ZX-10R, which is being offered with a discount of Rs 2.50 lakh, bringing its ex-showroom price down to Rs 18.29 lakh. The Ninja 1100 SX is available with a Rs 1.43 lakh discount and is now priced at Rs 12.99 lakh. The ZX-6R, while not offered with a direct cash benefit, is being sold with a complimentary Ohlins steering damper worth Rs 83,000.

Also Read: Kawasaki Z1100 Fully Booked for 2026

The MY25 Versys 1100 gets a Rs 1 lakh discount, lowering its price to Rs 12.89 lakh. Meanwhile, the Versys-X 300 is being offered with free accessories valued at up to Rs 46,000. The Ninja 650 is available with a Rs 27,000 discount (Rs 7.64 lakh), the Ninja 500 gets Rs 17,000 off (Rs 5.49 lakh), and the Ninja 300 comes with a Rs 28,000 price reduction (Rs 2.89 lakh).

 

All offers are valid until the end of January 2026. Interested buyers can check with their nearest Kawasaki dealership for stock availability. 

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Toyota Urban Cruiser EV: What To Expect

Toyota is gearing up for the launch of its first-ever EV in India. It is called the Urban Cruiser EV and is Toyota’s version of the yet-to-be-launched Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara. Here’s a rundown of what to expect from the Toyota Urban Cruiser EV:

 

Design and Platform:

Also Read: Toyota Urban Cruiser EV India Debut On January 19

 

To be built at the same production line as its Maruti Suzuki counterpart, the Urban Cruiser EV is already on sale internationally. It has a different front fascia compared to the Vitara, but carries over the tail lamp section sans comprehensive changes. The dimensions will be identical, but we do expect different paint schemes as well as alloy wheel design for the Urban Cruiser EV. 

 

Cabin and Features:

Also read: India-Bound Toyota Urban Cruiser EV Showcased In Indonesia
 

Where the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder carry significant changes to the cabin compared to each other, the same cannot be said about the Urban Cruiser EV. Except for the badge changes, there will be no drastic changes inside the cabin. 

Be it the two-spoke steering wheel, floating binnacle for infotainment and driver’s screen, unique gear selector, seats and everything else inside the cabin will be carried over. Even the boot space at 306 litres should be identical. 

 

Battery Pack and Powertrain:

Internationally, the Urban Cruiser EV is available with two powertrain choices. Here in India, like the e-Vitara, we will get the bigger 59kWh battery pack with FWD configuration. Power output is rated at 172 bhp and 189 Nm, and the claimed range is 430 km (under WLTP). 

 

Pricing and Availability

With the India debut set to happen on January 19, 2026, the sales are expected to commence a few months later. It will be priced slightly higher than the Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara.  

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Tata Safari Petrol vs Mahindra XUV 7XO : Specs, Features Compared

Mahindra kick-started 2026 with the debut and launch of the XUV 7XO, the mid-life-cycle update to its venerable XUV 700 SUV. It has quickly been followed by Tata Motors announcing prices for the long-awaited petrol variants of the Harrier and Safari, which were unveiled last month. So the question is, just how does the 7XO stack up against the new Safari petrol on paper?
 

Also read: Mahindra XUV 7XO Launched In India; Prices Start From Rs 13.66 Lakh
 

Mahindra XUV 7XO vs Tata Safari Petrol: Engine Specifications

 

The 7XO carries over the powerful 2.0-litre turbo-petrol mill from its predecessor. The unit develops 200 bhp and 380 Nm of peak torque and is offered with both a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox, depending on the variant.
 

Also read: Mahindra XUV 7XO Prices, Variants Explained
 

The Safari, in comparison, is down on power and torque. Featuring the company’s new 1.5-litre Hyperion T-GDI engine, the Safari petrol has a peak output of 168 bhp and 280 Nm - down 32 bhp and 100 Nm. Gearbox options, however, are similar with a standard fit 6-speed manual and the option for a 6-speed torque converter automatic.
 

Both SUVs are Front Wheel Drive as standard, with the 7XO getting optional all-wheel drive on the diesel model, which has not been considered in this comparison.
 

Mahindra XUV 7XO vs Tata Safari Petrol: Features

 

Moving to the features, the 7XO gets several updates over the outgoing XUV 700, including some features from Mahindra’s new family of EVs. The Safari, meanwhile, receives a new top-spec Ultra variant that incorporates some of the technology previously exclusive to the Harrier EV.
 

Also read: Tata Harrier, Safari Petrol Launched In India: Prices Start From Rs 12.89 Lakh
 

For this comparison, we only consider the top variants.
 

Starting with the 7XO, Mahindra has sought to appeal to buyers who want features such as triple 12.3-inch displays and LED lighting as a standard across the range. In top spec, the 7XO AX7 L packs in additional kit such as Level 2 ADAS tech, electric adjust front seats, ventilated front and rear seats, dual-zone climate control, 16-speaker Harman Kardon Audio system with Dolby Atmos & Vision, 540 degrees camera, wireless chargers front & rear, panoramic sunroof, 19-inch alloy wheels and more.
 

Also read: 2026 Tata Harrier & Safari 1.5 Hyperion Review: By The Power Of Petrol!
 

The Safari in comparison gets features such as LED headlamps & fog lamps, a 14.5-inch QLED touchscreen, 360 degree cameras with washers for the front & rear cameras, digital rear view mirror with built-in dash cam, 10-speaker JBL system with Dolby Atmos, powered front seats, ventilated front seats, ventilated rear seats (6 seater only), dual zone climate control, panoramic sunroof, Level 2 ADAS tech and 19-inch wheels. The Safari, however, does get some bits like a powered tailgate with gesture control - not available in the 7XO.
 

Mahindra XUV 7XO vs Tata Safari Petrol: Prices

 

In terms of pricing, the 7XO ranges between Rs 13.66 lakh and Rs 23.64 lakh (ex-showroom). The Safari, on the other hand, starts at a marginally lower Rs 13.29 lakh with the top petrol automatic priced at Rs 25.20 lakh (ex-showroom) - notably higher than the 7XO.

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2026 World Car Awards Finalists Announced

The race for the global automotive industry's most prestigious honours officially entered its final stretch as the World Car Awards announced the top finalists for 2026. A global jury of 98 automotive journalists from 33 countries, including India, selected the shortlists via secret ballot, narrowing down a field of dozens of contenders across six distinct categories.

 

The countdown to the awards ceremony will conclude on April 1, 2026, when the winners will be revealed live at the New York International Auto Show. This year’s competition highlights a shift toward electric mobility and global innovation.

 

"The World Car Awards are a benchmark for excellence and innovation," said Daniele Schillaci, Brembo’s CEO. "Their commitment to advancing mobility mirrors our own drive to shape a zero-accident future."

World Car of the Year (WCOTY) Top 10

 

The flagship category began with 58 eligible vehicles, now narrowed down to these 10 finalists:

 

• Audi Q5 / SQ5
• BMW iX3
• BYD Seal 6 DM-i
• Hyundai Ioniq 9
• Hyundai Palisade
• Kia EV4
• Kia EV5
• Mercedes-Benz CLA
• Nissan Leaf
• Toyota RAV4

 

The top five World Electric Vehicle finalists are:

 

• Audi A6 e-tron / S6 e-tron
• BMW iX3
• Hyundai Ioniq 9
• Mercedes-Benz CLA
• Nissan Leaf

Top five World Luxury Car finalists:

 

• Audi A6 e-tron / S6 e-tron
• Audi A6/S6
• Cadillac Vistiq
• Lucid Gravity
• Volvo ES90

 

Top five World Performance Car finalists:

 

• BMW M2 CS
• Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray
• Land Rover Defender Octa
• Hyundai Ioniq 6 N
• Mercedes-AMG GT 63 Pro

Top five World Urban Car finalists:

 

• Alfa Romeo Junior
• Baojun Yep Plus / Chevrolet Spark EUV
• Firefly
• Hyundai Venue
• Wuling Binguo / Ari Poly

 

All vehicles competing in the five categories above are eligible for the 2026 World Car Design of the Year award. A panel, consisting of respected world design experts, was asked to review each candidate and establish a short-list of recommendations for the jurors’ final vote.

 

Five World Car Design of the Year finalists:

 

• Firefly
• Kia PV5
• Lynk & Co 08
• Mazda 6e / EZ-6
• Volvo ES90

 

The ‘Top Three’ in the World finalists will be announced virtually on March 3rd with final winners in all six categories announced on April 1st at the New York International Auto Show. This year marks the 21st year of the World Car Awards partnership with the show.

 

Kia EV3 had won the overall World Car of the Year title last year. Porsche 911 Carrera GTS (for performance) and Volvo EX90 (for luxury) were some of the other notable winners then.
 

Official partners for the World Car Awards programme include AITASTIC Research & Consult, Brembo, NYIAS, KPMG and Newspress.

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KTM RC 160 Launched In India At Rs 1.85 Lakh

A few months after introducing the 160 Duke in India, KTM has expanded its lineup with the launch of the fully faired RC 160, priced at Rs 1.85 lakh (ex-showroom). The new model sits below the RC 200 and RC 390 and mirrors the role of the 160 Duke by becoming the entry point into KTM’s RC supersport range.

 

Also Read: KTM RC 390 Discontinued Globally, Remains On Sale In India

Powering the RC 160 is the same 164.2cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine found in the 160 Duke. The unit churns out 18.7 bhp at 9,500 rpm and 15.5 Nm of torque at 7,500 rpm. The engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox and a slip-and-assist clutch. KTM says the RC 160 has a top speed of 118 kmph.

 

Coming to cycle parts, the KTM RC 160 gets 37 mm upside-down front forks and a rear monoshock. It rides on 17-inch alloy wheels rolling on tubeless tyres, with a 110/70 section at the front and a 140/60 section at the rear. Braking hardware includes a 320 mm front disc and a 230 mm rear disc, along with dual-channel ABS. Fuel tank capacity is rated to be 13.75 litres up to the brim.

 

Also Read: KTM 390 Adventure X Vs Triumph Scrambler 400X Comparison Review

In typical KTM fashion, the RC 160 is equipped with full LED lighting, including the headlamp, tail-lamp and indicators, while it also features an LCD instrument cluster. While the 160 Duke has recently received a TFT display, it remains to be seen if KTM will introduce a new variant for the RC 160 in the future.

 

At Rs 1.85 lakh, the RC 160 commands a Rs 15,000 premium over the 160 Duke and costs almost Rs 19,000 more than the Yamaha R15, its chief rival in the Indian market, which also recently got a price cut of Rs 5,000.  

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