The automotive retail sales in India is back in the green, and for October 2024, the convergence of Navratri and Diwali has helped register robust growth across segments.

According to the latest data released by the Federation of Automobile Dealers Association (FADA), a total of 2.8 million vehicles were registered last month, up 32.14 percent YoY, compared to 2.14 million vehicles sold last year.

This included 2 million two-wheelers (+36.34 percent YoY); 122,846 three-wheelers (+11.45 percent YoY); 483,159 passenger vehicles (+32.38 percent YoY); 64,433 tractors (+3.08 percent YoY) and 97,411 commercial vehicles (+6.37 percent YoY).

C S Vigneshwar, President, FADA stated that festivities traditionally account for 30–35 percent of total annual auto sales. The industry was keenly observing how October would unfold.

He said, “With dealers entering this crucial period fully committed and carrying all-time high inventory levels, the month did not disappoint!”

FADA shared that the rural market once again played a leading role in driving growth, particularly in the two-wheeler and passenger vehicle segments. Additionally, the Government of India's announcement of an increase in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for Rabi crops further boosted market sentiments.

The two-wheeler sales were driven by festive schemes, discounts along with new model launches that drove consumer interest. The dealers were able to support the demand on the back of better stock availability and suppliers from OEMs.

In the passenger vehicle segment too, aggressive offers, attractive schemes and new model introductions further stimulated demand.

“Enhanced vehicle availability and strong market interest, especially for SUVs and new products, also contributed to the exceptional sales. However, despite strong sales, PV OEMs continue to heavily stock dealers, resulting in inventory levels decreasing by only five days, with overall inventory still at a high of 75–80 days. This may thus lead the season of substantial discounts to continue until the end of the calendar year,” cautioned Vigneshwar.

The commercial vehicle segment growth was driven by various factors such as supportive agricultural markets and bulk purchases, particularly for container movements.

FADA states that however dealers faced challenges such as slow demand, sluggish construction activities, financial issues among customers and increased vehicle prices leading to higher EMIs.

“Overall, while there were areas of growth, the CV market faced headwinds that tempered its overall performance,” he shared.

Great Indian wedding

While the automotive industry has been seeing a mixed results in terms of retail demand, the expectation for the rest of the calendar year remains positive. An estimated 4.8 million weddings are scheduled across the country in November and December 2024. This is expected to bring an ‘unprecedented surge’ in demand for wedding-related goods and services.

For the automotive industry this could further amplify demand for two-wheelers and passenger vehicles. In the CV segment, while supportive agricultural markets and continued bulk purchases may contribute positively, dealers remain vigilant due to factors like sluggish construction activities, financial constraints among customers and an anticipated decrease in demand post-festivities.

But on the other hand, for the passenger vehicle segment, there are apprehensions about potential slowdowns caused by customers postponing purchases in anticipation of better year-end discounts. FADA also urges, PV OEMs to further rationalise supply.

The auto retail body states that while the industry is optimistic about near-term growth driven by the wedding season and favourable market conditions, dealers are mindful of potential challenges that could affect sales momentum as the year concludes.

‘The mixed sentiments reflected in the survey highlight the need for strategic planning and cautious optimism as the auto sector navigates the remaining months of the year,’ the note concluded.

Representational image courtesy: TomFlick/Pexels

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German automotive luxury brand BMW Group India has introduced the new BMW M2 CS as a Completely Built-Up (CBU) unit. The high-performance special edition is based on the second-generation M2 and is available in limited quantities at an ex-showroom price of INR 16.6 million.

The vehicle is equipped with an upgraded 3.0-litre, six-cylinder in-line engine, a unit shared with the BMW M4 GT3 EVO racing car. It delivers 390 kW (530 hp) and 650 Nm of torque. Power is managed via a standard eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, sending drive to the rear wheels.

In terms of performance, the BMW M2 can accelerate from zero to 100 kmph in 3.8 seconds, with a top speed of 302 kmph (M Driver’s Package included as standard). It clocked a lap time of 7:25.5 minutes (recorded 11 April 2025) at Nurburgring, surpassing the previous compact car record by eight seconds.

The BMW M2’s chassis has been lowered by eight millimetres compared to the standard model, featuring bespoke tuning for springs, dampers, and control systems. The exterior incorporates extensive carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) components, including the roof, bonnet, mirror caps and rear diffuser.

It features a ‘ducktail’ spoiler and a unique kidney grille design. Standard equipment includes 19-inch front and 20-inch rear forged M light-alloy wheels in Matt Gold Bronze, fitted with track tyres. Braking is handled by an M Compound system with red calipers, while carbon ceramic brakes are available as an option.

The cabin is fitted with M Carbon Bucket Seats and an Alcantara steering wheel. Lightweight materials extend to a carbon-fibre centre console and door trim panels with illuminated ‘CS’ logos.

The digital features include BMW Operating System 8.5 with ‘QuickSelect’ menu structure; BMW Live Cockpit Professional with Head-Up Display; Harman Kardon surround sound system and M Drive Professional, featuring a drift analyser and laptimer.

Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India, said, “The new BMW M2 CS is optimised for the ultimate thrill. By bringing this global track icon to Indian shores, we are catering to a growing community of enthusiasts who demand an uncompromising, pure-blooded driving experience. And while the M2 CS is born for the racetrack, it’s ready to take you wherever you need to go. It stands as a definitive driver’s machine - a bridge between peak adrenaline and the open road, offering our Indian customers a level of exclusivity and precision that only a 'CS' badge can deliver.”

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Tata Motors, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has bagged another feather in its cap for its popular all-new Tata Sierra SUV.

The Tata Sierra has secured a five-star safety rating from Bharat NCAP, scoring 31.14 out of 32 for Adult Occupant Protection and 44.73 out of 49 for Child Occupant Protection. The results confirm that the mid-size SUV meets the highest safety standards under the current protocol, including stable structural integrity during frontal offset and side impact tests.

It was in November 2025 that Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles relaunched the reimagined Sierra at an introductory price of INR 1.14 million. Originally debuted in 1991, the new iteration transitions from the original three-door format to a five-door monocoque design measuring under 4.4 metres.

The SUV features a 'Premium' positioning, distinguished by the slimmest headlamps in its category, a pillarless design past the B-pillar, and a substantial glasshouse. The interior incorporates a triple-screen display system with Dolby Atmos audio and a ‘living room’ aesthetic inspired by contemporary Indian art.

Standard safety equipment across all variants includes six airbags and a sealed fuel system. The Sierra is equipped with over 20 ADAS L2+ features, such as intelligent speed assist and sign recognition.

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German luxury car brand Audi India has expanded its Q8 range with the launch of the Audi SQ8. Positioned between the standard Q8 and the RS Q8 Performance, the vehicle enters the Indian market at an introductory price of INR 17.77 million (ex-showroom).

The SQ8 is powered by a 4.0-litre V8 TFSI engine, producing 373 kW and 770 Nm of torque. It has a claimed acceleration from zero to 100 kmph in 4.1 seconds and reaches a top speed of 250 kmph.

The mechanical architecture includes quattro permanent all-wheel drive with a self-locking centre differential. Adaptive air suspension sport with continuous damping. All-wheel steering as standard for increased manoeuvrability and S-specific sport exhaust system for a distinct sound profile.

On the outside, it is equipped with HD Matrix LED headlights featuring Audi laser light and four light signatures. Design elements include S-specific bumpers, a single-frame mask in aluminium and frameless doors with power latching. A panoramic sunroof is standard, while 22-inch alloy wheels and ceramic brakes are available as options.

Inside, the cabin features front sport seats upholstered in Dinamica microfiber and leather. Technology integration includes the Audi Virtual Cockpit plus and a 730-watt Bang & Olufsen 3D Premium Sound System with 17 speakers. Safety systems comprise eight airbags, Audi Pre Sense Basic and park assist with 360-degree cameras.

Balbir Singh Dhillon, Brand Director, Audi India, said, “The Audi SQ8 strengthens our high-performance SUV line-up in India by offering a compelling balance of power, everyday usability and genuine, visceral performance. It is designed for customers who want a versatile luxury SUV that can be effortlessly comfortable during the week and truly exciting on the weekend. We are seeing growing enthusiasm for performance cars across India, particularly among our discerning, younger clientele, and the Audi SQ8 is a natural extension of our commitment to bringing the brand’s finest performance heritage to the Indian market.”

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JSW MG Motor India, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has inaugurated its largest MG SELECT Experience Centre in Surat. The facility is part of a national rollout of 14 centres across 13 cities, designed to showcase the brand’s luxury vehicle portfolio.

The Surat centre, located in the New City Light Area, follows a gallery-inspired design philosophy focused on minimalist aesthetics. The environment is intended to provide personalised services for customers in the luxury segment, moving away from traditional showroom layouts to immersive, art-focused spaces.

The centre features two primary models:

• MG Cyberster: A performance electric vehicle with a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 3.2 seconds and a 580 km ARAI-certified range. It is priced at INR 7.49 million (ex-showroom).
• MG M9: Positioned as a luxury limousine, available at an ex-showroom price of INR 6.99 million.

According to the company, JSW MG Motor India is currently the second-largest brand in India's luxury electric vehicle segment.

Milind Shah, Head of MG SELECT, JSW MG Motor India, said, “We are delighted by the overwhelming response to the MG Cyberster and MG M9 since their launch. JSW MG Motor India has also risen to become the second largest* brand in the luxury EV segment, an impressive milestone powered by the combined success of both the cars. Surat is fast emerging as a hub for luxury automobiles with a positive customer response. We are committed to delivering a luxury automotive environment that is tailored, technology-driven, and truly resonates with the aspirations of our customers in this vibrant city.”

Sonam Jain, Dealer Principal, MG SELECT Surat, said, “This centre transcends the traditional showroom experience to redefine automotive luxury for our discerning clientele in Surat. This will also cultivate a community where every customer’s aspirations are realized and their patronage is genuinely cherished.”

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