Welcome to Gulf News, your premier destination for comprehensive coverage and insights into the dynamic landscape of the Gulf region and beyond. As a trusted source of news and information, we pride ourselves on delivering timely updates, in-depth analysis, and compelling stories that resonate with our diverse audience.
From breaking news to in-depth features, business trends to cultural happenings, sports highlights to technological advancements, Gulf News covers it all with accuracy, integrit
Steelbird's premium brand, Ignyte, has launched a new Carbon Fibre Helmet Series in India, with prices starting from Rs 14,999. The company has launched three models under the new series - IGN-10, IGN-14 and IGN-16. The former two feature an open face design and are priced at Rs 14,999, while the IGN-16 is a full-face helmet and is priced at Rs 19,999. All helmets in the new series are ISI & DOT certified.
Commenting on the launch, Kashish Kapur, Director, Steelbird Hi-Tech India Ltd., said, “The IGNYTE Carbon Fibre Series represents our vision of creating premium helmets that combine world-class safety, advanced materials, and exceptional craftsmanship. Every helmet has been designed and manufactured in-house with a strong focus on innovation, lightweight performance, and rider protection.”
Ignyte says that the new Carbon Fibre Series features an Expanded Polypropylene (EPP) liner reinforced with Kevlar at its core. The company claims that the EPP liner is capable of regaining its shape in the case of low-severity impacts. Additional features include an anti-fog & anti-scratch visor, antimicrobial interior liner and multi-colour exposed carbon fibre texture. Additionally, the IGN-14 and IGN-16 also come with an additional smoked visor, while the IGN-16 also gets customised fitting head foam.
All helmets in the Carbon Fibre Series come with a 3-year warranty.
from carandbike - News https://ift.tt/CoMTnf4
via IFTTT
The recently launched Nissan Tekton has entered a hotly contested midsize SUV space, taking on established rivals including heavyweights like the Kia Seltos. With the Seltos receiving a comprehensive generational update in 2026 that brought fresh styling and more features, here's how the range-topping Tekton Tekna+ stacks up against the Seltos GTX(O).
The Seltos is the larger SUV overall, measuring 111 mm longer, 15 mm wider and riding on a 33 mm longer wheelbase. The Tekton, meanwhile, stands 39 mm taller and offers 212 mm of ground clearance along with a bigger 518-litre boot. Both models ride on 18-inch alloy wheels, though each gets its own distinct wheel design.
Nissan Tekton Tekna+ vs Kia Seltos GTX (O): Engine & Gearbox
Specification
Tekton Tekna+
Seltos GTX(O)
Engine
1.3-litre turbo-petrol
1.5-litre turbo-petrol / 1.5-litre diesel
Power
161 bhp
157 bhp (Petrol) / 114 bhp (Diesel)
Torque
280 Nm
253 Nm (Petrol) / 250 Nm (Diesel)
Transmission
6-speed MT / 6-speed DCT
6-speed MT / 7-speed DCT (Petrol), 6-speed AT (Diesel)
The Tekton is offered only with turbo-petrol engines, with the flagship variant using a 1.3-litre turbo producing 161 bhp and 280 Nm. The Seltos GTX(O), meanwhile, gives buyers more flexibility with both turbo-petrol and diesel engine options. While the Nissan makes more power and torque than the petrol Seltos, Kia's diesel gives it an edge.
Nissan Tekton Tekna+ vs Kia Seltos GTX (O): Features
Feature
Tekton Tekna+
Seltos GTX(O)
Touchscreen infotainment
10.25-inch HD touchscreen with Google Built-in
12.3-inch HD touchscreen
Driver's display
10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
Panoramic sunroof
Yes
Yes
Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
Yes
Yes
Powered driver's seat
6-way
8-way
Powered co-driver seat
6-way
No
Ventilated front seats
Yes
Yes
Seat upholstery
Quilted leatherette
Leatherette
Wireless phone charger
Yes (with cooling vent, DCT only)
Yes
Automatic climate control
Dual-zone
Dual-zone
Rear AC vents
Yes
Yes
Powered tailgate
Yes
Yes
Ambient lighting
Yes
Yes
Connected car technology
Nissan App with Google Built-in
Kia Connect
Navigation
Google Maps built-in
Built-in navigation
Voice assistant
Google Assistant
AI Voice Assistant
Sound system
Arkamys audio system
Bose audio system
OTA updates
Yes
Yes
360-degree camera
Yes
Yes
Paddle shifters
Yes (DCT only)
Yes (DCT only)
Both SUVs are well-equipped, offering features such as panoramic sunroofs, ventilated front seats, dual-zone climate control, wireless phone charging and powered tailgates.
Nissan Tekton Tekna+ vs Kia Seltos GTX (O): Safety
Feature
Tekton Tekna+
Seltos GTX(O)
Bharat NCAP rating
5 stars
5 stars
Airbags
6
6
ADAS
Level 2
Level 2+
360-degree camera
Yes
Yes
Parking sensors
Front & rear
Front, rear & side
Electronic parking brake
Yes (DCT only)
Yes
TPMS
Yes
Yes
Driver drowsiness detection
Yes
Yes
Hill start assist
Yes
Yes
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Yes
Yes
Front & rear disc brakes
Yes
Yes
Auto-dimming IRVM
Yes
Yes
Rain-sensing wipers
Yes
Yes
Front & rear dashcams
Optional
Yes
Both models offer a strong safety package, with 5-star Bharat NCAP ratings, six airbags, ESC, TPMS, hill start assist and 360-degree cameras as standard. They also get Level 2 ADAS, although the Seltos goes a step further with a Level 2+ suite and additional parking sensors on the sides. Kia also includes front and rear dashcams as standard, while these are offered as an optional accessory on the Tekton.
Price is where the Tekton makes its strongest case. The Tekton Tekna+ range starts at Rs 16.49 lakh, thanks to the inclusion of the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol manual, making it Rs 5.08 lakh more affordable than the entry-level Seltos GTX(O), which starts at Rs 21.57 lakh. Even if you compare the range-topping DCT versions of both SUVs, the Tekton undercuts the Seltos by Rs 3.23 lakh.
While the Seltos justifies part of its premium with a richer feature list and a diesel option, the Tekton delivers a comparable overall package at a significantly lower asking price.
from carandbike - News https://ift.tt/PN4oFcI
via IFTTT
Kia's upcoming Syros EV has been spotted completely undisguised for the first time, ahead of its expected launch later this year. The model has been undergoing road tests for almost a year, first in South Korea and later in India, but the latest set of images reveals the production-spec design in full.
At first glance, the Syros EV looks almost identical to the standard ICE-powered Syros. It retains the same upright proportions, boxy silhouette and tallboy stance, with only a handful of EV-specific changes. The front grille has been sealed off, and another noticeable difference is the silver housing for the fog lamps, while the rest of the fascia remains largely unchanged. It also carries over the same alloy wheel design seen on the ICE model.
At the rear, the L-shaped tail lamps remain in place on either side of the rear windscreen, while the bumper has been slightly revised with silver-finished housing that mirrors the front design. As seen in earlier test mules, the charging port is positioned on the front left fender.
Spy images also offer a glimpse of the cabin, which appears to be carried over from the standard Syros. The 30-inch panoramic display is visible, while features such as a panoramic sunroof, sliding and reclining rear seats, and rear seat ventilation are also expected to be offered. One feature that remains uncertain is ADAS, especially after Kia removed the driver assistance suite from the MY26 update of the ICE-powered Syros.
Under the skin, the Syros EV is expected to share its electric powertrain with the Carens Clavis EV, which itself is based on the Creta Electric's setup. This means buyers could get a choice of 42 kWh and 51.4 kWh battery packs, paired with a front-mounted electric motor. The larger battery is expected to deliver a claimed range of up to 490 km on a single charge.
Once it goes on sale, the Syros EV is expected to become Kia's most affordable electric vehicle in India. It will compete with models such as the Tata Nexon EV, MG Windsor EV, Mahindra XUV 3XO EV and other models in the segment.
Hero MotoCorp's electric mobility brand Vida has introduced a new 4.4 kWh version of the VX2 Plus electric scooter in India. Priced at Rs 1.44 lakh (ex-showroom), the new variant sits above the existing 3.4 kWh model, offering a longer claimed range and increased top speed without any changes to the overall design or equipment list.
The new battery pack has a total capacity of 4.4 kWh, split across two removable 2.2 kWh battery packs. Hero claims an IDC-certified range of 187 km on a full charge, making it the longest-range VX2 Plus yet. For reference, the 3.4 kWh variants provide 146 km while the smaller 2.2 kWh is good for 93 km on a single charge (IDC figures).
Power comes from the same electric motor producing 6 kW (8.04 bhp) of peak power and 26 Nm of torque. However, the larger battery allows the scooter to achieve a higher claimed top speed of 90 kmph, up by 10 kmph as compared to 80 kmph on the 3.4 kWh variant. Ride modes remain the same – Eco, Ride and Sport modes – while a Boost function is also available.
For this new battery pack, a 1 kW portable charger handles charging duties. Hero claims the battery can be charged from 0-80 per cent in 3 hours 17 minutes, while a full 0-100 per cent charge takes 5 hours 8 minutes. The scooter also supports DC fast charging, which can replenish the battery from 20-80 per cent in 28 minutes, 0-80 per cent in 65 minutes, and 0-100 per cent in 2 hours 50 minutes under standard test conditions.
Feature-wise, the new variant mirrors the existing VX2 Plus. It comes equipped with a 4.3-inch TFT display, smartphone connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation, and over-the-air (OTA) software updates.
from carandbike - News https://ift.tt/mrc6hX8
via IFTTT
Tata Motors has introduced the first special edition of the Sierra to mark 50,000 sales. Called the Jubilee Edition, it adds accessories and a few extra features not available on the corresponding standard trims. It will be offered in Smart+, Pure and Adventure variants, with prices yet to be announced.
The Sierra Jubilee Smart+ Edition features a front grille add-on, tailgate cladding and roof rails, along with exclusive semi-leatherette seat covers. It also gets a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a rear-view camera and a four-speaker audio system.
The Sierra Jubilee Pure Edition comes equipped with a front grille add-on, tailgate cladding and roof rails, along with exclusive semi-leatherette seat covers. It also adds a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a rear-view camera and a four-speaker audio system.
Based on the Adventure trim, the Sierra Jubilee Adventure Edition adds the ROQ exterior kit with a front grille add-on, tailgate cladding, wheel arch cladding and roof rails. It also gets exclusive semi-leatherette seat covers, a leatherette steering wheel cover, magnetic sunshades, a parcel tray and a front & rear dashcam.
The Tata Sierra is offered with three engine options: a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol producing 105 bhp and 145 Nm, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DCA; a 1.5-litre TGDi turbo-petrol developing 158 bhp and 255 Nm, available exclusively with an automatic torque converter; and a 1.5-litre Kryojet diesel churning out 116 bhp and 280 Nm, offered with either a 6-speed manual or an automatic transmission.
from carandbike - News https://ift.tt/6hDZSGk
via IFTTT
Tata Motors has launched the 2026 Harrier and Safari Stealth Edition in India, bringing back the all-black special editions after introducing them in limited numbers earlier last year. The previous Stealth Edition was capped at 2,700 units, while Tata has not announced a production limit this time.
The new versions are based on the Fearless Ultra trim for the Harrier and the Accomplished Ultra trim for the Safari. Prices for the Harrier Stealth Edition range from Rs 23.43 lakh to Rs 26.01 lakh, while the Safari Stealth Edition is priced between Rs 24.09 lakh and Rs 26.76 lakh (both ex-showroom).
The talking point of any special edition is on the cosmetic front and this is no different. Both SUVs are finished in a Matte Stealth Black paint scheme, complemented by 19-inch matte black diamond-cut alloy wheels, Stealth Edition badging on the front fenders, and a Stealth mascot. Inside, Tata has carried forward the dark theme with Carbon Noir leather upholstery, Granite Black contrast stitching, and matching black trim pieces.
Since the Stealth Edition is based on the top-spec trims, it carries over the same equipment list as the standard models. This includes a digital instrument cluster, large touchscreen infotainment system, ventilated front seats, Level 2 ADAS, panoramic sunroof, premium audio system and connected car technology. The Safari continues to be offered in both six- and seven-seat configurations, with the six-seater featuring ventilated captain seats for the second row.
Mechanically, there are no changes. Both SUVs continue to be powered by Tata's 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine. Buyers can choose between a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic transmission.
from carandbike - News https://ift.tt/fBoDXUV
via IFTTT
The Nissan Tekton is here and is dubbed the mini-Patrol. But effectively it is Nissan’s interpretation of the new-gen Renault Duster, which is steadily gaining a lot of popularity in the C-SUV segment. Like the Duster and Terrano of the yesteryears, the new Tekton and Duster share the same platform, engines and much of their equipment list. But Nissan has gone to considerable lengths to give the Tekton a distinct identity.
This means lending the two SUVs distinct personalities, allowing buyers a choice more prominent than just badge engineering.
Exterior
The new Duster stays true to its rugged roots while still offering a proper modern design. It has a bold grille, eyebrow-style LED DRLs and a chunky stance. The Tekton, meanwhile, draws inspiration from Nissan’s larger SUVs sold in international markets, especially the Patrol. It adopts a squarer front end with slimmer headlamps linked by a light bar and a prominent RED streak running across the face.
On the side, there are newly designed alloy wheels, different bumper treatments and a distinctive C-shaped tail-lamp signature (unlike the triangular ones seen on the Duster) at the back, further separating the Nissan from its French cousin. Park them side by side, and the family resemblance is obvious, but so is the effort Nissan has made to give the Tekton its own road presence.
Interior
Step inside, and the similarities continue, yet there are a few differences. While the dashboard architecture and switchgear are largely common, the upholstery themes, trim finishes and decorative inserts differ in the two C-SUV rivals. Even the steering wheel used in the Tekton is different from the one used in the Nissan. The Tekton aims for a more premium feel with warmer colour combinations like beige and gold, along with metallic accents throughout. Meanwhile, the Duster retains a more utilitarian, adventure-ready theme with more black and green contrast.
Renault took on the C-SUV segment head-on by offering lots of features. Similarly, the Tekton benefits from the same, Both SUVs are generously equipped, which includes a large digital driver’s display, tilted infotainment screen, a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, wireless charging, a 360-degree camera and a comprehensive Level 2 ADAS. In terms of safety, apart from the Five Star BNCAP rating, you get multiple airbags, a 360-degree camera and advanced driver-assistance systems in both.
Powertrains
Under the bonnet, things remain the same for the Tekton as the Duster, with turbo-petrol engine choices paired with manual and dual-clutch automatic gearboxes. The key distinction is that the Duster is expected to gain a strong-hybrid option later this year, but this powertrain will be omitted in the Tekton, according to reports.
The Nissan Tekton is offered with two engine options – the 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol producing 99bhp and 166Nm and is only available with a six-speed MT. The other is the 1.3-litre turbo petrol producing 160bhp and 280Nm, which can be had with a six-speed MT or a six-speed DCT. The claimed mileages for the two powertrains are 19.5kmpl for the 1.3 Turbo Manual and 18.5kmpl for the DCT, all similar to the Duster.
The Nissan Tekton and Renault Duster share the same underpinnings, but there are efforts put in to make the two SUVs differentiate from each other. We have seen this with the Kiger and the Magnite, where two cars being identical under the skin have different kinds of experiences. Over here, the Duster continues to be the rugged and practical SUV, while the Tekton aims at the premium appeal. The best part about the two is that the winner is the buyer, because whichever one they choose, they get a thoroughly modern midsize SUV with a well-sorted package.
from carandbike - News https://ift.tt/ip89SkR
via IFTTT
Yamaha India has launched the Yamaha FZ Blue Flex, a flex-fuel compatible version of the popular Yamaha FZ that can run on ethanol blends ranging from E20 to E85. The FZ Blue Flex is priced at Rs. 1,24,240 (Ex-showroom) and is powered by the same 149 cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine which has been engineered to run on ethanol-blended petrol. The engine’s output is rated at 11.53 bhp and 12.8 Nm, a drop of 0.7 bhp and 0.5 Nm compared to the standard variant of the FZ.
The 5-speed gearbox, front telescopic suspension, rear monoshock along with ABS have all been shared with the standard FZ model. The LED headlamp is shared with the FZ Rave, and the Blue Flex shares the same sculpted fuel tank with faux air vents and a compact exhaust. The single-piece seat also remains the same.
The launch of the FZ Blue Flex makes Yamaha the third two-wheeler manufacturer to enter the flex-fuel space, which already has the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 FFV and Hero MotoCorp’s two flex-fuel motorcycles, the HF Deluxe and Splendor.
The FZ Blue Flex will be available in a Metallic Black colour option and will be sold through Yamaha’s select Blue Square dealerships in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana and Tamil Nadu.
from carandbike - News https://ift.tt/CjEln8F
via IFTTT
Nissan has finally launched the Tekton in the Indian market at an ex-showroom starting price of Rs 10.49 lakh. Bookings are now open with deliveries to start from July 20, 2026. Based on the same RGMP platform as the Renault Duster, the Tekton shares its mechanicals with its French sibling but gets a distinctly Nissan-inspired design.
The Tekton is available in six variants: Visia, Visia+, Acenta, N-Connecta, Tekna and Tekna+. Prices start at Rs 10.49 lakh and go up to Rs 18.59 lakh (ex-showroom, introductory).
Although its proportions remain identical to the Duster, Nissan has given the Tekton a unique identity through revised styling at both ends.
The front end features L-shaped LED headlamps, a slim LED light bar running beneath the bonnet edge and a split rectangular grille finished with horizontal detailing.
Lower down, the chunky bumper gets generous use of black body cladding, silver skid-plate styling and squared-off air intake elements to give the SUV a more rugged appearance.
Viewed from the side, the similarities with the Duster become more evident. Squared wheel arches, muscular fenders and the greenhouse profile are all shared between the two SUVs.
At the rear, a roof spoiler sits above the upright tailgate, while the bumper carries forward the black-and-silver treatment seen at the front.
Unlike the Duster, the Tekton gets a body-coloured tailgate instead of a contrasting black panel. Nissan has also added prominent Tekton lettering across the tailgate.
The SUV measures 4,348 mm in length, 1,815 mm in width and 1,674 mm in height. It rides on a 2,657 mm wheelbase and offers 212 mm of ground clearance.
One can choose from Onyx Black, Blade Silver, Pearl White, Flare Garnet Red, Indigo Blue and Moonbow Grey, with every shade available in both monotone and dual-tone finishes.
Inside, the Tekton shares its overall dashboard layout with the Duster, complete with a fully digital instrument cluster and a large freestanding infotainment touchscreen.
Feature highlights include a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, powered driver's seat, dual-zone climate control, Google Built-in, 360-degree camera, powered tailgate and wireless phone charger.
Higher variants also pack an ADAS suite, along with six airbags, ABS, ESC and other safety features.
The Duster’s crash test rating has been carried over for the Tekton, with the latter claiming to hold a five-star Bharat NCAP crash safety rating.
Powertrain options are identical to the Duster. The 1.0-litre turbo-petrol produces 99 bhp and 166 Nm, while the 1.3-litre turbo-petrol develops 161 bhp and 280 Nm.
A 6-speed manual is offered with both engines, while the 1.3-litre turbo-petrol can also be paired with a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic.
Nissan claims fuel efficiency figures of 19.4 kmpl for the 1.0 Turbo, 17.8 kmpl for the 1.3 Turbo Manual, and 18.5 kmpl for the 1.3 Turbo DCT.
from carandbike - News https://ift.tt/c4LpNfs
via IFTTT
Over a year after it first teased a new compact SUV for the Indian market, Nissan India has launched the all-new Tekton SUV with prices starting from Rs 10.49 lakh (ex-showroom). Bookings are now open with deliveries to start from July 20, 2026. The Tekton is essentially the sister model to the new Renault Duster and is underpinned by the same RGMP platform while also sharing the same engine and gearbox options.
In terms of design, the Tekton shares the same proportions as the Duster but gets its own unique styling elements. Up front, the Tekton gets its own unique fascia with L-shaped headlamps with integrated DRLs and a lightbar at the base of the bonnet. The rectangular grille is split in two by a trim strip that runs the width of the fascia, while lower down, the bumper gets notable use of black and silver plastics to give it a muscular look.
In profile, the similarities to the Duster are most apparent, including the squared-out wheel arches, prominent fender flares, and the shape of the glasshouse. The rear also shares similarities with the Duster, with notable changes in the shape of the taillamps and the rear bumper.
In terms of size, the Tekton measures 4,348 mm long, 1,815 mm wide and 1,674 mm tall. It sits on a 2,657 mm wheelbase and has a ground clearance of 212 mm.
Inside, the Tekton features the same basic dashboard design as its sibling, replete with a digital instrument screen and a large central touchscreen. The differences come in the form of different trim finishers and upholstery colours. Features on offer include a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, powered driver seat, dual-zone climate control, a touchscreen with Google Built-in, 360-degree cameras, powered tailgate, wireless phone charging pad and more.
On the safety front, the top variants get ADAS tech along with features such as 6 airbags, ABS, ESC and more.
Mechanically, the Tekton is identical to the Duster, sharing the same 1.0-litre turbo-petrol and 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine options. The former develops 99 bhp and 166 Nm while the latter makes a stronger 161 bhp and 280 Nm. A 6-speed manual gearbox is standard with the larger petrol unit also getting the option for a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic. Nissan claims fuel efficiency numbers of 19.4 kmpl for the 1.0 Turbo, 17.8 kmpl for the 1.3 Turbo-manual and 18.5 kmpl for the 1.3 Turbo-DCT.
The Tekton marks Nissan's return to the heavily congested compact SUV segment where it will go up against its sister model, the new Renault Duster, as well as popular SUVs such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Victoris & Grand Vitara, Skoda Kusaq, Volkswagen Taigun and the Honda Elevate.
All prices, ex-showroom introductory.
from carandbike - News https://ift.tt/YUhCdXP
via IFTTT
Yamaha Motor India has announced prices for the Aerox Electric, its second electric scooter for the Indian market after the River Indie-based EC-06. Priced at Rs 2.82 lakh (ex-showroom), the Aerox Electric costs nearly twice as much as its petrol-powered counterpart and roughly Rs 1.09 lakh more than the EC-06. With this, it also becomes Yamaha's most expensive two-wheeler currently on sale in India.
Powering the Aerox Electric is a 9.4 kW (12.6 bhp) electric motor, producing a peak 48 Nm of torque. The motor draws power from two removable 1.5 kWh battery packs (3 kWh total capacity), which can be charged separately at home. Yamaha claims a range of up to 117 km (IDC) on a full charge, while the scooter can reach a claimed top speed of 95.5 kmph in Power mode with the Boost function activated.
Charging the battery packs from 0-100 per cent takes 3 hours 10 minutes for a single battery, while charging both packs together requires 6 hours 20 minutes. As for ride modes, one can choose between Eco, Standard and Power riding modes, while the Boost function unlocks full power for 10 seconds at a time. A reverse mode is also offered as a part of the package.
On the features front, the Aerox Electric comes equipped with full-LED lighting, a colour TFT instrument cluster with turn-by-turn navigation, and a smart key with an ‘Answer Back’ function that flashes the indicators and sounds a buzzer to help locate the scooter in parking lots.
Visually, the Aerox Electric remains largely identical to its petrol sibling, retaining the same maxi-scooter styling. However, Yamaha has revised the ergonomics of the electric derivative, while the underseat storage has been reduced to accommodate changes to the battery pack and bodywork. The scooter tips the scales at 139 kg (kerb) and features disc brakes at both ends along with single-channel ABS.
from carandbike - News https://ift.tt/J3QUY2E
via IFTTT
