India-EU FTA Finalised; Duty On Imported Cars To Drop To 10%

India and the European Union have announced the finalisation of the new Free Trade Agreement. The agreement, renegotiations for which commenced in 2022, will offer reduced or negligible import duty barriers to a range of products across sectors, which is likely to make products more affordable as well as smooth the transfer of technology and services.

 

Also read: Import Duty On Cars Likely To Be Slashed To 40% Under India-EU FTA: Report

For the Indian auto industry, the new FTA will allow for the import of European premium and luxury cars at a reduced duty bracket of as low as 10 per cent. The initial documents say that this will be subject to a cap of 2.5 lakh per year, with the official press release from the EU saying that this will be a gradual reduction. Full details on the reduction of import duties on cars are still awaited, though reports say that the reduced duty will be valid for models priced over Rs 25 lakh.
 

Import duty on CBU vehicles so far has faced import duties ranging from 70 to 110 per cent, depending on the vehicle’s landed value. It also remains to be seen what effect the FTA will have on the existing CKD assembled cars from European carmakers. CKD models currently attract a 15 per cent import duty while models arriving via the SKD route attract a 35 per cent duty rate.

 

Also read: India-EU Trade Deal: List Of Cars Likely To Get More Affordable In India
 

Additionally, the EU press statement reports that duties on car parts will also be reduced to zero ‘after five to ten years.’
 

For now, car buyers should not expect any immediate effect on vehicle prices, with the FTA yet to be presented to the EU council and parliament for approval before it is signed and ratified by both parties.

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Ducati’s WorldSBK Championship Race Bike Finds a New Home in India

In the world of motorcycle collecting, some are special edition versions while some are unique models. And then, there are those machines that are not only rare but also super special and one-of-a-kind with racing winning history. Mumbai has just become home to the actual 2023 World Superbike Championship-winning Panigale V4 R. This is not a tribute bike or a factory replica, but the very machine ridden by Álvaro Bautista during his record-breaking WorldSBK title.

 

Also Read: Ducati Panigale V4 R Launched In India At Rs. 84.99 Lakh

Delivered into a private collection, the Panigale V4 R represents the highest tier of collectability in modern motorsport: a one-of-one, championship-winning factory race bike with unquestionable provenance. Recently showcased at an invite-only event in Mumbai, the motorcycle offers a rare glimpse into Ducati’s dominance at the pinnacle of production-based racing — now preserved not in a museum, but in a private Indian collection.

Finished in its iconic Giallo Yellow race livery, the bike was brought to India by Ducati India with its delivery marking one of the most significant additions to any private motorcycle collection in the country and signals a growing maturity in India’s high-end motorsport collector culture. For collectors, acquiring motorcycles like these goes beyond ownership, preserving a machine that shaped a championship and defined an era. With this rare Panigale V4 R, one could expect more race-spec versions of such motorcycles making their way to India for private collecting.

 

Also Read: New Limited-Run Ducati Panigale V4 Marquez 2025 World Champion Replica Revealed

The Panigale V4 R was at the centre of multiple commanding seasons in WorldSBK history. In 2023, Bautista secured 27 race wins, 31 podium finishes, and a record 628 points, clinching the championship well before the season finale. Ducati, in the process, recorded the highest number of wins by a single manufacturer in a WorldSBK season. Engineered by Ducati Corse, the WorldSBK-spec Panigale V4 R blends MotoGP-derived aerodynamics, race-developed electronics, a purpose-built chassis and the high-revving Desmosedici Stradale R engine — a combination designed solely for winning at the highest level.

 

Also Read: Ducati Watches Now On Sale In India; Priced From Rs 15,000

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Bipul Chandra, Managing Director, Ducati India, said,
“Bringing the actual Panigale V4 R WorldSBK race bike ridden by Álvaro Bautista to India is a moment of immense pride for Ducati India. Seeing this extraordinary motorcycle become part of a private collection in India allows us to create a direct and powerful connection to the technology, passion, and on-track dominance that define Ducati’s WorldSBK legacy.”

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Hyundai Creta Electric Now Supports 100 kW DC Fast Charging

The Hyundai Creta Electric now supports up to 100 kW DC fast charging, which should enable shorter times spent at public fast chargers. The EV till now supported 50 kW DC fast charging, enabling a 10-80 per cent charge in around 58 mins which will now be reduced to a claimed 39 minutes. The upgrade is part of a software update for the electric SUV, which will also be rolled out to existing Creta Electric owners via an OTA update in phases. No hardware changes are required
 

Also read: Hyundai Creta Electric vs Tata Curvv EV Comparison: Compact Electric SUVs Face-Off
 

With a slew of electric car launches in the Rs 20-30 lakh, the segment is seeing tremendous competition. While its ICE sibling continues to rule this segment, the electric cousin, which sells at a slight premium, is facing the heat from new rivals offering bigger batteries and even more seats.
 

Also read: Hyundai Creta Sales Cross 2 Lakh Units In CY2025
 

Currently, the Creta Electric is sold with two battery pack options – 42kWh and 51.4kWh – with a claimed range of 420-510km, respectively. Hyundai sells multiple variants of the Creta electric (price list has 32 options). Both batteries are sold in 3 main trims – Executive, Smart and Excellence. The smaller 42kWh also gets an additional Premium trim in the middle. 
 

Also read: Hyundai Venue HX5+ Variant Launched At Rs 9.99 Lakh
 

Current ex-showroom prices for the smaller battery version of the Creta Electric start at Rs 18.02 lakh and go up to Rs 22.33 lakh. For the bigger battery (Long Range or LR ), prices start at Rs 20 lakh and go up to Rs 23.96 lakh.
 

These prices were just for the vehicle as of January 2026. A home charger can be opted for by paying an additional Rs 70,000. 

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Renault Duster Makes A Grand Indian Comeback, Gets Hybrid Tech

More than 15 years after it started the trend of compact SUVs in India, the Renault Duster is back. The SUV has been unveiled  on Republic Day in Chennai. While the launch is slated for March and deliveries will begin from April, Renault has shared some key details which includes features as well as drivetrain options. It remains to be seen if the Duster in its new form can recreate the magic of the originals with increased competition and changes market dynamics.

 

The India-Spec Duster has many design elements which are different from the global model. The trapezoidal grille gets chrome surrounds and is flanked by full LED headlamps. The name Duster is written on it and takes the place of the Renault Diamond logo. The SUV runs on 18-inch alloys on top trim and the rear gets connected lamps. It is 4343 mm long, 1813 mm wide and 1659 mm tall. The SUV will be available in 6 colour options and a two-tone finish with gloss back roof and spoiler is also on offer.

The cabin has seen a big change from the last time the Duster was sold in the Indian market four years ago. It is now more feature-laden and looks much more ergonomic. Features include dual 10-inch screens with segment-first inbuilt Google services. Music, map, apps and connectivity is all integrated in the touchscreen. Other features include ambient lighting, ventilated and electric front seats, dual zone climate control, Arkamys sound system and a panoramic sunroof. The second row promises good practicality with a wheelbase of 2657 mm. The SUV gets a boot space of 518 liters along with a powered tail gate.  

 

 

The 2026 Renault Duster comes with as many as 3 petrol engine options. Smallest is a 1.0 litre 3-cylinder turbo which makes 99 bhp and 160 Nm and is mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. A 1.3 liter 4-cylinder turbo is next which makes 158 bhp and 280 Nm. It is being offered with a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed dual clutch transmission. Later in the year, the SUV will also go on sale with strong hybrid tech where a 1.8-litre GDI petrol engine is paired to a 1.4 kWh battery pack. Called the e-Tech 160, it is paired with an 8-speed automatic and two-electric motors. The car can be driven 80% in pure EV mode accroding to Renault. 

 

Also Read: New Renault Duster India Debut Highlights: Specifications, Features, Images

 

The SUV is based on the Renault Groups modular platform (RGMP) and promises to hold the same level of ride and handling combination offered by the predecessor. It gets a ground clearance of 212 mm while the approach and departure angles stand at 26.9 and  34.7 degrees respectively. In terms of safety, the new Duster is 'engineered for full-five star score in crash tests’ according to the brand. It also gets features like adaptive cruise control and 360 view camera.

 

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Toyota Urban Cruiser Ebella Vs Maruti Suzuki e Vitara: What’s Different?

Earlier this week Japanese carmaker Toyota took the wraps off its first electric car for the India, the Urban Cruiser Ebella. The mid-size SUV is essentially a rebadged version of the Maruti Suzuki e Vitara which also is the first electric offering from the brand. Now that we have seen both these cars from close quarters lets list out for you how has Toyota tried to differentiate itself from Maruti Suzuki although the list is not very exhaustive.

 

 

Design

Faces differ on both SUVs with distinct placement of logos.

 

While dimesnions of both SUVs are same and so it the wheelbase that stands at 2700 mm, there are key differences when it comes to their faces. While both get active air flaps for better battery management, the headlamps are DRL patterns on both are quite different. Ebella gets monopod LED headlamps along with pine like DRLs while the e Vitara gets Matrix LED tech with Y-shaped DRLs. Bumper designs are distinct too with the Toyota being more sophisticated while the Maruti looks more muscular. It is also gets fog lamps exclusively which are missing on the Toyota. The profile is pretty much the same with loads of cladding though distinct designs of the 18-inch alloys stand out. The tail lamps of both SUVs compliment their faces nicely.

 

Also Read: All-Electric Toyota Urban Cruiser EBella Introduced; Booking Open For Rs. 25,000

 

Interior

Cabins are largely the same with different audio systems.

 

Features in the cabin are largely similar on both SUVs. Even the black and tan theme is common to both and dashboard design is similar too. The dual-screen setup, floating centre console, flat bottom steering wheel, ambient lighting, glass roof, electric driver seat, electric parking brake and front seat ventilation. What is exclusive to the Toyota is the 10-speaker JBL sound system while Maruti gets a 10-speaker Infinity sound system. Rear seats on both SUVs get recline and slide functions and there’s also a 40:20:40 split for added practicality.

 

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara Review: Worth The Wait?

 

Drivetrain

The SUVs share two battery pack options

 

Both SUVs also share two battery pack options -  49 kWh and 61 kWh. While the former makes 142 bhp and 189 Nm the bigger pack makes 172 bhp with same amount of torque. Claimed range is between 440 km and 543 km. Both SUVs get 3 trims with Maruti following the usual Nexa convention of calling then Delta, Zeta and Alpha while Toyota is calling its trims E1, E2 and E3. For safety both SUVs get 7 airbags, 360-view camera and Level 2 ADAS functions among other features. While Maruti has claimed a 5-star BNCAP rating, no such announcement has been made by Toyota.

 

Prices

 

For both the SUVs prices are still awaited and it remains to be seen which of two manufacturers announce them first. However, Toyota has gone ahead and exclusively announced a 60% buyback option after 3 years to gain more customer confidence while Battery as a service (BAAS) option also will be available on the Ebella which will lower the upfront cost of the EV. Both get a standard warranty of 8 years on the battery.

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Mahindra Thar Roxx Star Edition Launched At Rs 16.85 Lakh

Mahindra has launched a new special edition based on the Thar Roxx named the Star Edition. Priced from Rs 16.85 lakh (ex-showroom), the Roxx Star Edition gets cosmetic differences from the standard SUV and is being offered with petrol and diesel engine options in rear-wheel-drive configuration. Full prices are as follows:

 

Variant	Price (ex-showroom)
Petrol AT 4x2	Rs 17.85 lakh
Diesel MT 4x2	Rs 16.85 lakh
Diesel AT 4x2	Rs 18.35 lakh

Also read: 2024 Mahindra Thar Roxx 4x4 Review: More Space, More Utility, More Features

 

Also read: Mahindra XUV 3XO EV Launched In India; Prices Start At Rs 13.89 Lakh
 

Starting from the exterior, the biggest difference is the Citrine Yellow paint finish - a colour not offered on the standard Roxx. Buyers can additionally opt for the special edition in Tango Red, Everest White and Stealth Black. Adding to the new exterior colour are blacked-out cosmetic details such as a piano black grille and 19-inch alloy wheels. The special edition also features variant-specific badging on the C-pillar.
 

Inside, the cabin is now finished in black leatherette upholstery with suede accents as opposed to ivory white or mocha brown on the standard SUV. In terms of features, the special edition gets all the bells and whistles, including ventilated front seats, panoramic sunroof, 10.25-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay, 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, Harman Kardon sound system and all LED lighting.

 

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

 

Also read: Auto Sales December 2025: Mahindra Edges Out Tata To No. 2, Hyundai Drops To Fourth In Domestic Sales
 

On the mechanical side, the special edition is offered with both the 2.0-litre turbo-petrol and 2.2-litre diesel engine options solely in rear-wheel-drive spec. The former is offered solely with an automatic gearbox, while the diesel can be optioned with either a manual or automatic.

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Citroen Aircross X Max 5-Seat Variant, C3 Live (O) Launched In India

Citroen has updated the Aircross X (formerly C3 Aircross) and C3 hatchback with new variants as part of its Citroen 2.0 strategy. The Aircross X is now offered with a 5-seat option in top-spec Max trim priced from Rs 12.41 lakh (ex-showroom), while the C3 gets a new feature-loaded second-from-base Live (O) trim priced at Rs 5.49 lakh (ex-showroom). Interestingly, the new variants will not be readily available with Citroen saying that units will only be produced against confirmed bookings.
 

Also read: EU-Spec Citroen e-C3 EV Spied In India
 

Citroen Aircross X Max 5-Seat Variant: What’s New?
 

 

Also read: 2025 Citroen Aircross X Launched In India; Prices Start At Rs. 8.29 Lakh
 

As the name suggests, the update to the Aircross line-up now adds the option for buyers to opt for a two-row seating configuration in the fully-loaded Aircross SUV. The option was originally offered when the SUV first launched in India as the C3 Aircross, though it was dropped in more recent model updates. Before this latest update, the Aircross X was offered as a 5-seat model in the lower spec You and Plus trims with the naturally aspirated petrol engine only, while the turbo-petrol Plus and Max trims were exclusively 7-seat trims.
 

Also read: All-New Citroen e-C3 For Europe Revealed With Up To 320 Km Range
 

The new update adds back the option for a top-spec 5-seat Aircross, though Citroen says that the units will be made-to-order, i.e. the unit will roll off the assembly line after a booking for it is placed. As with the 7-seat Max trims, the 5-seat version will be offered with the 108 bhp turbo-petrol engine option.
 

Citroen C3 Live (O): What’s New?
 

 

Also read: Citroen Aircross 5-Seat Variant Bags 5 Stars In Bharat NCAP Crash Tests
 

Priced at a premium of roughly Rs 54,000 over the base Live trim, the Live (O) has been kitted out with several accessories offering features only seen on the top variants. These new feature additions include a new 10.1-inch Android touchscreen with smartphone connectivity (top variants get a 10.25-inch unit), built-in speakers, a reverse camera, leatherette seat covers, fog lamps, and side body & wheel arch moulding with chrome inserts. It also gets wheel covers that was previously available from the higher Feel trim.
 

Interestingly, features such as the touchscreen, reverse camera and fog lamps are not offered as standard on the Feel trim that is priced at Rs 5.85 lakh (ex-showroom). As with the new Aircross variant, this variant too is made-to-order and will only be produced in line with confirmed bookings. The new variant is offered solely in a Perla Nera Black paint scheme.

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Volkswagen Tayron R-Line Local Assembly Begins In India Ahead Of Launch

Volkswagen India has commenced local assembly of the Tayron R-Line, marking a significant step in the brand’s premium SUV strategy for the Indian market. The Tayron R-Line is being assembled at Volkswagen’s Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar plant in Maharashtra. Although the official date is yet to be announced, the Tayron R is on track for the India launch in the first quarter of 2026.

Also Read: India-Spec Volkswagen Tayron Revealed
 

With this move, Volkswagen aims to make its premium, German-engineered SUVs more accessible to Indian buyers, while also strengthening its local manufacturing footprint. The start of production comes less than a year after the Tayron’s global debut, underlining the brand’s intent to reduce time-to-market for India.

Also Read: Volkswagen Taigun Facelift Spied Testing In India; Previews Updated Design
 

Positioned as Volkswagen India’s most premium SUV, the Tayron R-Line offers three-row seating, is positioned above the Tiguan and comes with the sportier R-Line design treatment. It carries VW’s recognisable design language with an overall length of just under five metres. The cabin is typically German and matches what you see in the Golf GTI. 

Also read: Skoda Auto Volkswagen India Crosses 2 Million Unit Production Milestone
 

With production now underway, Volkswagen is gearing up to intensify its presence in the premium SUV space, where it already retails models such as the Tiguan R-Line alongside the Taigun and Virtus. More details, including pricing and specifications for India, are expected closer to the Tayron R-Line’s official launch in Q1 2026.

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2026 Triumph Trident 660 and Tiger Sport 660 Unveiled; India Launch This Year

Triumph has taken a big step forward with its 660cc middleweight platform for 2026, unveiling thoroughly updated versions of the Trident 660 and Tiger Sport 660. This marks the most extensive revision yet for the twin-cylinder trio, with meaningful upgrades to the engine, chassis, styling, and onboard technology.

 

The headline change is the extensively reworked 660cc inline three-cylinder engine. Output now stands at 93.7bhp at 11,250rpm and 68Nm at 8,250rpm, bringing both models in line with the Daytona 660. With a healthy 13.8bhp bump, with peak power arriving 1,000rpm later and torque shifting 2,000rpm higher in the rev range. Despite the sportier tuning, Triumph says around 80 percent of peak torque is available from just 3,000rpm, promising strong real-world usability.

One of the most significant mechanical updates is the switch to three individual 44mm throttle bodies, replacing the earlier single-unit setup. This is supported by a larger front-mounted airbox, a revised cylinder head with bigger exhaust valves, a higher-lift cam profile and a 20 percent higher redline of 12,650rpm. The cooling system has also been upgraded, with a larger and repositioned radiator and fan to handle the added performance.

 

Also Read: Triumph Tracker 400 Unveiled in UK

2026 Triumph Trident 660

For 2026, the Trident 660 sharpens its roadster styling with updated bodywork. A wider, more sculpted fuel tank with deeper knee cut-outs, revised seats and a refreshed headlight design give the bike a more substantial stance while also improving rider comfort.

Cycle parts include Showa 41mm USD front forks and a new Showa rear shock offering preload and rebound adjustment. Braking hardware remains unchanged with twin 310mm front discs and Nissin calipers, while Michelin Road 5 tyres continue as standard. The motorcycle has a wet weight of 195kg and comes with a rider-friendly seat height of 810mm.

Electronically the motorcycle remains well-equipped, with ride-by-wire enabling Sport, Road and Rain modes, a six-axis IMU for cornering ABS and traction control, cruise control as standard, Triumph Shift Assist, and a TFT-LCD instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity.

 

Also Read: Triumph Scrambler 400 X Offered With Free Accessories Worth Rs 13,300

2026 Triumph Tiger Sport 660

The Tiger Sport 660 receives the same performance upgrades but leans harder into its sport-touring brief. A larger 18.6-litre fuel tank allows an extending range, while revised bodywork and radiator cowls improve weather protection. The adjustable windscreen now offers a wider range of adjustment for added comfort on longer rides.

Suspension travel remains at 150mm at both ends, with Showa USD forks and a rear monoshock featuring remote preload adjustment to better handle luggage or a pillion. Even with its added touring hardware, Triumph claims a wet weight of 211kg.

Like the Trident, the Tiger Sport 660 comes well-equipped, featuring ride modes, IMU-based cornering ABS and traction control, cruise control, a quick shifter and full LED lighting as standard.

Both models will be available in new colour options for 2026, while the India launch expected later this year.

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Bajaj Pulsar 125 Updated With LED Headlamp, Indicators; Prices Start From Rs 89,910

Bajaj has updated the Pulsar 125 for 2026 with a new LED headlamp and turn indicators. The new features are offered on the Carbon Fibre series of the commuter motorcycle and do not extend to the Pulsar 125 Neon series. There are two variants to pick from - the Single Seat priced at Rs 89,910 and the Split Seat priced at Rs 92,046 (ex-showroom). Interestingly, the new variants are more affordable than the 2025 model year Pulsar 125 by around Rs 2,400.

 

Also read: Pierer Mobility AG Rebranded as Bajaj Mobility AG Following KTM Takeover

 

Aside from the new headlamp and turn signals, Bajaj has also updated the colour options for the Pulsar 125. The Carbon Fibre series is now offered in four colourways - Black Grey, Black Racing Red, Black Cyan Blue, and Racing Red with Tan Beige, with updated graphics.

 

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

 

Mechanically, there are no changes to the Pulsar 125 for 2026, with the familiar 124.38 cc, single-cylinder mill carried forward without any updates. The unit develops a peak 11.6 bhp and 10.8 Nm of torque. As in the 2025 model year, the 2026 Pulsar 125 has a front disc brake as standard.
 

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

The updates for now do not carry over to the Pulsar 125 Neon series.

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Skoda Kodiaq RS India Launch In Q2 2026; Additional 100 Units Of Octavia RS India-Bound

Skoda looks to be going big with its hot RS models for the Indian market in 2026. For the first time ever, India will get a performance SUV from the Czech carmaker with the launch of the Kodiaq RS confirmed for Q2 2026. Set to arrive in limited numbers, the Kodiaq RS is the hottest derivative of the brand’s flagship internal combustion SUV and runs the same 2.0 TSI turbo-petrol engine as the Octavia RS, which was launched in India last year.
 

Also read: 2026 Skoda Kushaq Facelift Revealed With New Tech, Powertrain Updates
 

The Kodiaq RS gets some notable cosmetic differences over its standard counterpart already sold in India. Sportier bumpers, blacked out cosmetic detailing and larger RS-specific wheels and a twin tip exhaust at the rear. The cabin follows the all-black theme reminiscent of the Octavia, with sports seats up front replete with integrated headrests. The Kodiaq RS also retain all the practicality of its standard counterpart, offering the same 5+2 seating configuration as the top-spec Kodiaq currently on sale in India.
 

Also read: New-Gen Skoda Kodiaq RS Unveiled; Goes From 0-100 kmph In 6.3 Seconds
 

On the mechanical side, the Kodiaq uses the same 2.0 TSI turbo-petrol mill as the Octavia RS, pushing out 261 bhp and 400 Nm of torque paired with a 7-speed DSG gearbox. All-wheel drive is standard with Skoda claiming a 6.3-second 0-100 kmph sprint and a 231 kmph top speed for its performance SUV.
 

Additional Octavia RS Units For India Confirmed
 

Aside from the Kodiaq RS, enthusiasts will have another reason to celebrate. Skoda has confirmed that the currently sold-out Octavia RS will return to India in 2026 with a second allotment of 100 units to become available in the coming months.
 

Also read: New Skoda Octavia RS India Review: Back With A Vengeance
 

The Octavis RS made its India debut at the 2025 Bharat Mobility Expo before being launched in the country in October of that year. However, all 100 units were sold out with days of bookings opening a week prior to prices being announced.
 

As with the previous batch, expect the latest allocation to also feature a front-wheel drive layout with the familiar 261 bhp 2.0 TSI engine under the hood. Prices, however, could be higher than the Rs 49.99 lakh (ex-showroom) launch price of the first batch.

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