The new commercial Defender 90 and 110 models to be launched later this year will restore the Hard Top name to its rugged 4x4 family. It will combine all-terrain capability with 21st-century connectivity to give professionals a unique combination of cargo space, practicality and premium comfort.

The Hard Top name dates back to 1950, when the introduction of demountable Hard Tops gave early Series Land Rovers added security and protection from the elements. New Defender Hard Top continues this ethos, sharing its fixed metal roof and silhouette with the iconic original.

Land Rover has experienced unprecedented global demand for New Defender 90 and 110 since its successful world premiere last September and the new Hard Top models will be the next additions to the legendary bloodline.

Defender’s aluminium-intensive D7x body architecture is three times stiffer than the best body-on-frame designs. Sharing its strong body structure and next-generation Electrical Vehicle Architecture (EVA 2.0) with passenger models, the Defender Hard Top is being developed by Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations to deliver unrivalled durability, practicality and toughness. 

Michael van der Sande, Managing Director, Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations, said: “We will maximise the functionality and usability of New Defender’s cargo area, with tough materials and clever storage solutions to ensure it surpasses the capability of any previous Defender Hard Top.”

The 90 and 110 Hard Tops will both feature independent coil-sprung suspension, with advanced electronic air suspension also available on the 110. Both set-ups will provide outstanding off-road geometry, with ground clearance of 291mm, while the 110 Hard Top will have approach, breakover and departure angles of up to 38, 28 and 40 degrees respectively (in Off-Road height). Full technical details will be confirmed later this year.

Nick Collins, Land Rover Vehicle Line Director, said: “New Defender 90 and 110 Hard Top will be the toughest, most capable and most connected commercial 4x4s we have ever produced. They have been engineered to meet global safety standards and deliver impressive long-haul comfort, giving businesses and professionals the best of all worlds.”

An impressive payload and towing capacity of up 3,500kg will combine to make New Defender the ultimate commercial 4x4. The flexible cabin has no second or third-row seats, but the optional front-row jump seat means it will still accommodate up to three people. Land Rover’s clever ClearSight Rear View mirror system preserves rearward visibility when the jump seat is occupied, or when the load space is full. It uses a live video feed from a rear-facing camera to give drivers an unobstructed view at all times.

New Defender Hard Top will be a world-class tow vehicle, with a raft of technologies to help hitch, drive and reverse safely while pulling a trailer. Land Rover’s intelligent Advanced Tow Assist system takes the stress out of difficult reversing manoeuvres by letting drivers steer trailers with their fingertips using a rotary controller on the centre console.

The maximum wading depth of 900mm is also supported by a new Wade programme in the Terrain Response 2 system, which ensures drivers can ford deep water with complete confidence – so important supplies will always get through. (MT)

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Stellantis-owned French auto brand Citroen India has unveiled the C3 Limited Sport Edition, a new variant of its popular hatchback with a range of exclusive features.

The C3 Sport Edition distinguishes itself with bold 'Sport' decals, ambient cabin lighting and sporty pedals. The interior features custom sport-themed seat covers, matching carpet mats and seatbelt cushions to complement its athletic identity. Additionally, a new Garnet Red body colour has been introduced for the first time in the C3 lineup. Buyers also have the option to add a wireless charger and a dash cam.

Kumar Priyesh, Business Head & Director – Automotive Brands, Stellantis India, said, "The Citroen C3 has always stood out with its unique styling and plush ride quality fused with performance, making it a compelling choice in the hatchback segment. The C3 Sport Edition brings more energy, tech and thrill to a car already known for its bold design and ride quality. With the addition of Garnet Red and sporty enhancements, caters to a distinct generation of buyers who value individuality, class-leading performance, unmatched comfort and everyday practicality – reinforcing to Citroën’s promise of accessible innovation and design-led appeal."

Beyond its visual enhancements, the C3 Limited Sport Edition retains the C3's performance capabilities. It is powered by a 1.2L Turbo PureTech engine that delivers 110 PS and 205 Nm of torque, enabling a 0-100 kmph sprint in just 10 seconds. The vehicle also offers a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission.

The Citroen C3 Limited Sport Edition is now available at all Citroen dealerships across India. It carries a premium of INR 21,000 over the standard editions, with the optional Tech Kit (Dashcam and Wireless Charger) available for an additional INR 15,000.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

While new energy vehicles are gaining traction globally, GWM is making a case for the continued relevance of diesel – particularly in demanding off-road environments. At the recent GWM Thailand Diesel Day, the company highlighted advancements in diesel technology through its TANK 300 Diesel SUV, positioning it as a refined, high-performance option for drivers seeking torque, efficiency and durability.

The TANK 300 Diesel stands out with 480Nm of torque available from just 1,500rpm, a range of up to 1,200km and noise levels at idle as low as 65dB – comparable to petrol-powered vehicles. This balance of performance and comfort is achieved through GWM’s 2.4T diesel engine, paired with over 200 improvements in NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) control.

Fuel efficiency is another key focus. GWM’s use of advanced combustion techniques – including columnar combustion chambers and dual tangential air ducts – has brought consumption down to under 7.3L/100km. The company says this makes the vehicle well-suited for long-distance travel with reduced environmental impact.

GWM’s ‘All Scenarios, All Powertrains, All Users’ strategy reflects its commitment to offering multiple propulsion options tailored to local needs. In markets like Thailand, where off-road utility and long-range performance are critical, the TANK 300 Diesel showcases how modern diesel can remain a viable and competitive solution.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Luca De Meo has announced his decision to step down as the CEO of Renault Group after spending five years at the helm of the auto major, and pursue interest outside the automotive industry.

Renault Group’s Board of Directors, convened by its Chairman Jean-Dominique Senard, have expressed their gratitude to Meo for the turnaround and transformation of the brand and accepted that his departure would be effective from 15 July 2025. Meo will continue to perform his duties until that date.

The Board of Directors has initiated the process of appointing a new Chief Executive Officer based on the already defined succession plan.

Jean-Dominique Senard, said, "For five years, Luca de Meo has worked to restore Renault Group to its rightful place. Under his leadership, our company has returned to a healthy foundation, boasts an impressive range of products and has resumed growth. Besides being an exceptional captain of industry, Luca de Meo is also a creative, committed, passionate and inspiring individual. Today, the entire company joins me in thanking him for all these years and all the collective challenges successfully met. On a personal level, I will always remember the quality of our relations during this unforgettable journey. This also gives me the opportunity to warmly thank the Group's employees who have worked alongside us for the recovery of this emblematic company that we are all so proud of.” 

Luca De Meo, added, "There comes a time in one’s life when one knows the job is done. At Renault Group, we have faced immense challenges in less than five years! We have achieved what many thought impossible. Today, the results speak for themselves: they are the best in our history. We have a strong team and an agile organisation. We also have a strategic plan ready for the next generation of products. That is why I have decided it is time for me to hand over the baton. I am leaving a transformed company, poised for the future, to apply my experience to other sectors and embark on new adventures. Leading Renault Group has been a privilege. It has been a human and industrial adventure that only happens once in a lifetime. For this, I will always be grateful to the women and men of this company - the ‘Renaulutionnaires’ - for their passion, their commitment and their conviction. They are the true driving engines. Moreover, I would like to thank Jean-Dominique Senard for choosing me several years ago, for his support and trust, as well as the Board of Directors, for believing in our projects. And the best is yet to come."

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Mercedes-Benz India has unveiled the ultra-exclusive AMG G 63 'Collector's Edition’, setting a new standard for bespoke luxury. Designed specifically for the Indian market in collaboration with Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India (MBRDI), this limited-run masterpiece pays homage to India's vibrant culture and will be restricted to just 30 individually curated units.

The edition introduces unprecedented personalisation, including a first-of-its-kind grab handle engraved with the owner's name – a unique feature never before offered on the AMG G 63. Further exclusivity comes from a spare wheel cover bearing a 'One of Thirty' plaque, along with exterior protective strips featuring Collector's Edition insignia.

Two striking India-exclusive MANUFAKTUR paint options – Mid Green Magno and Red Magno – enhance its bold presence. The cabin elevates luxury with Catalana Beige/Black two-tone Nappa leather upholstery, complemented by open-pore walnut wood trim. Completing the package are 22-inch Tech Gold cross-forged wheels that blend dynamic aesthetics with performance.

Scheduled for Q4 2025 deliveries, this edition merges AMG's legendary off-road capability with unmatched customisation. The launch also signals Mercedes-Benz India's commitment to expanding its MANUFAKTUR personalisation programme, with MBRDI enabling more localised innovations for discerning customers.

Santosh Iyer, Managing Director and CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, said, “Hyper-personalisation is an emerging trend in the top-end luxury segment, as customers increasingly demand customised vehicles, distinguished by rare craftsmanship, exclusivity of appointments and elements of personalisation. Meant for collectors and aficionados, a limited 30 units of the specially curated AMG G 63 ‘Collector’s Edition’ will cater to this growing trend of custom-made vehicles. The Collector’s Edition is inspired by the Indian landscape, honouring Indian customers’ love for the AMG G 63. This vehicle underscores the prowess of local innovation and value addition by the teams at Mercedes-Benz India and Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India. This special vehicle not only celebrates the success and the culture-shaping effect of the AMG G 63 in India but also complements the spirit of collaboration and co-creation with our talent at MBRDI. We will continue to offer such rare vehicles listening to our customers’ wishes and desires, as our top-end luxury products set new industry trends, remaining the most desirable vehicles in the market.”

Manu Saale, Managing Director and CEO, Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India (MBRDI), said, “At Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India, we are proud to have played a key role in shaping this India-inspired Collector’s Edition of the AMG G 63. With this edition, we aimed to go beyond performance and create a vehicle that resonates with India’s unique identity. Collaborating with Mercedes-Benz India, this is a strong testament of our capabilities in developing market-specific configurations that reflect customer-centricity and regional relevance. We remain committed to introducing more market-relevant solutions with both design and technology inputs.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!