PM Electric Drive Revolution To Promote E-Mobility In India

Hyundai expects the new model to attract even more customers with its cutting-edge design, roominess, class-leading digital capabilities, dynamic ride and handling and excellent fuel efficiency.

“We are thrilled to introduce the all-new Tucson, the latest model in Hyundai’s SUV transformation,” said Thomas Schemera, Executive Vice President, Head of Product Division at Hyundai Motor Group. “This exciting vehicle sets a new benchmark for innovation in its segment, delivering an impressive blend of design, technology, packaging and performance.”

Representing ‘parametric dynamics’ design of Hyundai with kinetic jewel surface details emphasise the vehicle distinctly different in a crowded segment. Its integration of technology and design is most evident in its innovative half-mirror type daytime running lamps (DRLs) that are assimilated seamlessly within the parametric grille, only revealed when illuminated.

The kinetic design theme carries over to the rear where the full-width taillamp incorporates half-hidden triangular shapes that are only visible when lit, echoing the DRL on the front. Tucson gasoline models offer seven exterior colours while the Hybrid and plug-in hybrid models offer four colours. The interior comes in black or gray tones in either cloth or leather material.

The interior offers three new technologies, including a vertically stacked, dual 10.25-inch full-touch screen exempt of hard buttons, a multi-air ventilation system and an open, hoodless digital gauge cluster. These features create a high-tech, fresh and exciting ambience, with cushioned materials on high-touch areas, various material applications based on the frequency of interface and a premium presence. Tucson’s second-row seats will feature fold-and-dive functionality for optimised reconfiguration capability between passengers and cargo. Its cargo volume will provide an exceptional 38.7 cubic feet of usable space.

Ride And Handling

Tucson offers both Smartstream 2.5-liter, direct-injected, four-cylinder, gasoline powertrain and powerful 1.6-litre, turbo, direct-injected, hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrains. The 2.5-litre engine has an output of 190 PS and torque rating of 182 lb.-ft. It is coupled to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The 1.6-litre hybrid powertrain generates180 PS, with a combined powertrain output of 230 PS. It also produces 195 lb.-ft of torque from the gasoline engine and 258 lb.-ft of torque from the combined hybrid powertrain. This new powertrain uses Continuously Variable Valve Duration (CVVD) technology that manages valve opening duration for optimal power, efficiency and emissions with minimised compromise.

The vehicle was tuned to deliver agility and stability. The vehicle maker applied its first-in-class E-Handling technology for HEV and PHEV models to help improve steering response and directional stability when cornering or in adverse driving conditions. Tucson drivers get further assistance from Hyundai’s HTRAC all-wheel-drive system that provides sure footing on various road surfaces and conditions. While HTRAC previously supported Eco / Comfort / Smart / Sport driving modes, the latest version adds Mud, Sand and Snow in some markets.

Tucson offers more safety features than ever. The Hyundai SmartSense safety feature suite includes: Highway Driving Assist, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with pedestrian detection, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Blind-Spot View Monitor, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Surround View Monitor, Reverse Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist, Remote Smart Parking Assist, High Beam Assist, and Driver Attention Warning. It is also available with advanced technology features including Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist with Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Advanced Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go and Safe Exit Warning. (MT)

Hyperion-Powered Tata Sierra Sets New Fuel Efficiency Benchmark

The Tata Sierra has entered the India Book of Records for maximum fuel efficiency in 12 hours. In a certified run at NATRAX Indore, the Sierra delivered an exceptional 29.9 kmpl mileage, surpassing the previous national benchmark. The feat was executed by the Pixel Motion team, that drove the 1.5-lire Hyperion-engine powered Sierra continuously from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm on 30 November 2025 with brief halts for driver swaps. The record was officially validated the same day.
The new 1.5-litre Hyperion petrol engine, engineered to deliver high efficiency without compromising refinement, performance or drivability, has an advanced combustion system, torque-rich performance band and friction-optimised architecture. 
The compact SUV also achieved a top speed of 222 kmpg at the track under specified test conditions. 
“Setting a national efficiency record so early in the Sierra’s journey is a proud moment for us. The Hyperion engine platform was built to push the boundaries of what petrol powertrains can achieve, and this milestone validates that effort. It strengthens the Sierra’s value proposition for customers and underlines TMPV’s commitment to bringing advanced, efficient and future-ready technologies to the market," said Mohan Savarkar, Chief Product Officer, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles. 

Škoda UK’s Matthew Bowden Shifts To Global Sales; Eric Boutin Named Successor

Škoda UK’s Matthew Bowden Shifts To Global Sales; Eric Boutin Named Successor

Matthew Bowden is concluding a successful four-year tenure as Director of Škoda UK, departing to assume the role of Head of International Sales for Škoda Auto. Under his leadership, the UK market achieved significant growth, rising to become the brand's third largest global market and consistently exceeding performance records while maintaining a market share beyond four percent.

His successor, Eric Boutin, will join the Volkswagen Group UK board of management as Director of Škoda UK in the first quarter of 2026. Boutin brings extensive international experience from pivotal markets including Canada, China and United States. He is currently responsible for Škoda Auto's global customer experience programme, with direct oversight of the worldwide retail network and omnichannel integration, and is spearheading the brand's overarching customer centricity transformation.

This strategic leadership transition aims to leverage Bowden's commercial acumen on a global scale while injecting Boutin's specialised customer-focused expertise into the UK operations.

Damien O’Sullivan, Managing Director, Volkswagen Group UK, said, “Matthew has made a significant contribution towards Škoda’s evolution and growth over the past four years. I’m grateful for all he’s done for the brand and the Group and wish him well in his new role. I’m looking forward to welcoming Eric to the UK board of management and am sure his global experience and customer focus will support the brand’s future ambitions and Human Touch proposition.”

Mahindra XUV 7XO To Premiere on 05 January 2026

Mahindra XUV 7XO To Premiere on 05 January 2026

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd has revealed that it will launch the XUV 7XO, which is based on the XUV 700, on 05 January 2026. A premium SUV segment vehicle, the XUV 7XO, the company claims, will be a gamechanger. Said to have been crafted to inspire and engineered to excite, combining the proven strengths of the XUV700 with superior design, technology, comfort and performance, the XUV 7XO is expected to be a feature a fascia with the new signature grille design and '7'-shape sleeker LED head lamps. 
Claimed to draw an amount of design and styling details from the new seven-seater electric SUV the company introduced recently, the XUV 7XO is expected to built on the technologies that made the XUV 700 a competitively priced tech savvy SUV with monocoque construction and an option of an AWD. As an ICE vehicle the 7XO is expected to further the gamut of features found on the XUV 700, including the ADAS Level 2 suite. 

The XUV 7XO is expected to replace the XUV 700 over a period of time if not immediately. 

BMW India Enhances iX1 Long Wheelbase EV With New Colour And Luxurious Upholstery Options

BMW India Enhances iX1 Long Wheelbase EV With New Colour And Luxurious Upholstery Options

BMW India has enhanced its top-selling premium electric vehicle, the locally produced iX1 Long Wheelbase, with a new exterior colour and expanded upholstery selections, available for booking nationwide. The model now presents a fresh Night Dusk Blue metallic paint, deepening its sophisticated and commanding aesthetic alongside existing shades like Carbon Black and Mineral White. Inside, the cabin gains two new sustainably sourced vegan leather options: Veganza Smoke White + Atlas Grey dual tone and Veganza Castanea. These are distinguished by a premium 3D stitching pattern, emphasising both craftsmanship and modern, eco-conscious luxury.

A defining interior design philosophy, the 'Cocooning Effect’, extends the chosen upholstery colour cohesively across the cabin. This approach envelops the door panels, dashboard and speaker mesh, creating a harmonious and immersive environment that is both plush and visually continuous. The iX1 LWB’s interior is characterised by a spacious, modern design that merges innovative functionality with superior materials.

As the brand’s highest-selling electric model, the iX1 has been pivotal to BMW’s leadership in India’s luxury EV segment. The company has consistently adapted the vehicle to market preferences, introducing features like the Surround View Camera and now refreshing its colour and trim options. In under a year, it has become the best-selling electric vehicle in its premium category.

The vehicle combines practicality with sustainability, boasting segment-leading dimensions that make it one of the longest five-seater SUVs in India. Its bold exterior stance is matched by advanced fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology. This integrated drive unit delivers 204 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque, powered by a 66.4 kWh battery capable of up to 531 kilometres on a single charge. Features like adaptive recuperation and one-pedal driving further enhance efficiency and convenience, solidifying its position as a comprehensive premium electric package.