Hyundai Motor India (HMIL), a leading passenger vehicle manufacturer, remains upbeat about sustaining its growth momentum in FY2026, buoyed by robust SUV demand, growing rural penetration and the positive impact of GST reforms.

According to Tarun Garg, MD & CEO, Hyundai Motor India, the ongoing production ramp-up, including the commencement of operations at the Pune plant on 1^st October, marks a key milestone in strengthening the company’s domestic and export capabilities.

Exports are projected to surpass FY2026 targets, supported by higher-margin overseas sales and the company’s focus on cost optimisation. “Our profits are being driven by stronger exports and cost reduction in the bill of materials. We have refrained from aggressive discounting, which has helped maintain margins,” added

In the first half of FY2026, Hyundai Motor India executed over 20 product interventions, reflecting its commitment to keeping the portfolio fresh and relevant. The company also achieved its highest-ever rural penetration at 21.6 percent, with SUVs like the Exter and Venue witnessing a combined growth of 46 percent in rural markets during September–October compared to the January–August period. Rural SUV penetration now stands at 72 percent, marginally higher than in urban areas.

“The demand for SUVs remains strong, especially in the compact SUV segment where affordability and aspirations are in balance. The GST reform has given a fresh fillip to customer sentiment,” Garg noted. The new Hyundai Venue, slated for launch on 4^th November, is positioned as a key driver for continued momentum.

While demand softened briefly between mid-August and late September, retail activity picked up sharply in the weeks preceding the festive season. Garg indicated that retail sales in September–October grew about 20 percent over the January–August period. He, however, added that it will take another two to three months to fully gauge the long-term impact of GST on car-buying trends.

Despite some headwinds – including rising commodity prices, global geopolitical uncertainties, and foreign exchange fluctuations – Hyundai remains focused on cost optimisation to counter material price increases expected in Q3. The company also finalised a union settlement for FY2024–2027, which it described as a benchmark in the industry, reinforcing its commitment to employee relations and operational stability.

On the outlook, Garg highlighted both challenges and opportunities ahead. “While tariffs and global uncertainties remain headwinds, factors such as GST reforms, income tax returns, and the upcoming 8th Pay Commission will act as tailwinds supporting automotive demand,” he said.

In the long-run, the company expects to outperform the industry’s projected 5.5 percent CAGR with its own growth forecast of 7.5 percent, driven by new product introductions, operational efficiencies, and expanding exports.

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Chinese automotive major BYD India has inaugurated its 48th showroom in India, located in Moti Nagar, Delhi. Launched in partnership with PPS Motors, the 9,000 sqft facility is the largest BYD outlet in the country and the sixth for the brand within the Delhi NCR region.

With this opening, BYD India’s national network extends to 48 showrooms across 40 cities, managed by 18 dealer partners. PPS Motors now operates six of these showrooms and four service workshops across three Indian states.

The Moti Nagar facility is designed to display seven vehicles simultaneously, allowing customers to interface with the brand's technology and design. The current India portfolio includes BYD Sealion 7 SUV, BYD Seal sedan, BYD Atto 3 SUV and BYD eMax 7 MPV.

Delhi NCR remains a primary market for electric vehicle adoption in India. Globally, BYD has recorded sales of over 15 million New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) as of 31 January 2026. The company was ranked 91st in the 2025 Fortune Global 500, with a brand value of USD 14.4 billion.

Rajeev Chauhan, Head of Electric Passenger Vehicles Business, BYD India, said, “The inauguration of our 48th showroom in India and sixth showroom in Delhi NCR with PPS BYD in Moti Nagar represents another important milestone in strengthening BYD India’s retail footprint. Delhi NCR continues to be one of the most dynamic EV markets in the country, supported by increasing consumer awareness and adoption of sustainable mobility solutions. Together with our valued partner PPS Motors, we look forward to bringing BYD’s advanced electric vehicles closer to customers in the region and contributing to India’s transition towards cleaner transportation.”

Rajiv Sanghvi, Managing Director, PPS Motors, commented, “We are proud to further strengthen our partnership with BYD through the inauguration of India’s largest showroom marking an important milestone in our strategic expansion in Northern India. Being the largest spread sales and after-sales partners of BYD with 10 touch points in India, this reflects our shared commitment to accelerating the adoption of sustainable electric mobility solutions. Backed by BYD’s technologically advanced products, customer-centric approach coupled with our deep understanding of the customer needs we endeavour to provide a premium and seamless ownership experience for our customers in the Delhi region.”

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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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