KIA Uncovers New Design Philosophy for All Future Vehicles
- By MT Bureau
- March 15, 2021
KIA showcased the first images of its new dedicated battery electric vehicle EV6 ahead of its world premiere event in March. The released images showcase the car's design that follows its 'Opposites United' design philosophy.
The new design takes inspiration from the contrasts in nature and humanity with new visual identity evoking positive forces and natural energy, with contrasting combinations of sharp stylistic elements and sculptural shapes.
The design philosophy consists of five key pillars:
1) Bold for Nature: Clear and simple lines with bold, ever-changing surfaces characterise exterior design while organic yet technical structures and finishes embodies the vehicle interiors.
2) Joy for Reason: Vehicle feel and ambience will influence the passenger's mood by adopting new organic materials and more daring colours, expressing a sense of youth and playfulness.
3) Power to Progress: Future designs will evolve by drawing on and developing the skills and expertise learned throughout the brand's recent era of design-led transformation.
4) Technology for Life: New generation in-car user experience with advancements in lighting, feel and in-car connectivity.
5) Tension for Serenity: Design concepts use sharp, highly technical details to create surface tension – and realise a harmonised, future-oriented design vision.
The exterior of the EV6 sports a distinctive crossover-inspired design that embodies the 'Power to Progress' philosophy. The front is characterised by sleek DRLs that form a part of the Digital Tiger Face, the Tiger Nose Grille for the electric era. The low air intake at the front widens the car's visual appeal while channelling the airflow under the car's flat floor to improve aerodynamics.
The sleek and aerodynamic side profile with a contrast of sharp lines and high-tech details showcases the 'Tension for Serenity' philosophy. The character line running along the bottom of the door adds a visual elongating profile to the vehicle. The sloping C-pillar, along with the muscular rear haunches, add width at the rear. The rear also sports a roof-mounted spoiler that channels air towards a raised lower spoiler, which sits atop the car's unique rear light cluster.
The most striking visual element of the EV6's interiors is the seamless high-tech curved high-definition audio-visual and navigation (AVN) screen. The screen, along with the slim dashboard, adds a sense of space and an open feel; this is further enhanced by the dedicated E-GMP platform's increased interior space. The car features minimum physical buttons as most controls feature a haptic button on the dashboard that slopes away towards the front of the vehicle, creating a sense of space and openness for the front seat passengers.
The slim, lightweight seats are created using recycled plastics, making them modern and visually appealing. (MT)
Maruti Suzuki India, AU Small Finance Bank Launch Suhana Safar Initiative
- By MT Bureau
- July 02, 2026
AU Small Finance Bank has partnered with Maruti Suzuki India, the country’s largest passenger vehicle manufacturer, to introduce 'Suhana Safar', a scheme that links Recurring Deposits (RD) to auto loans. The initiative is aimed at first-time car buyers and applies to the Alto K10, S-Presso, Celerio and WagonR models.
Under the programme, customers open an RD account with AU Small Finance Bank and deposit a monthly amount equivalent to the future car EMI for 3 to 6 months. Upon maturity, the accumulated funds, which have earned interest, are used as the down payment for the vehicle, after which the bank provides the auto loan.
The scheme allows customers to save and earn interest while demonstrating repayment capacity before committing to a loan. The bank also uses this process to evaluate creditworthiness.
AU Small Finance Bank offers RD interest rates of 4.75 percent to 7.40 percent per annum for the general public, and 5.25 percent to 7.90 percent per annum for senior citizens.
Skoda Kodiaq RS Launched At INR 6.69 Million In India
- By MT Bureau
- July 02, 2026
Czech automaker Skoda Auto India has introduced the new Kodiaq RS, the first SUV to carry the performance-focused RS badge in the Indian market at INR 6.69 million (ex-showroom).
The company limited the initial release to 50 units, which were sold out within six minutes of launch. This release aligns with the 50th anniversary of the RS badge and the 125th year of the brand’s motorsport history.
Ashish Gupta, Brand Director, Skoda Auto India, said, “The RS badge represents an iconic performance legacy. Bringing it to our flagship 4x4, all-terrain, 7-seater SUV combines luxury, capability and motorsport DNA in one offering. The overwhelming response, with all units sold out in minutes, reflects the strong enthusiasm among customers.”
The Kodiaq RS features a 2.0-litre TSI engine producing 195 kW (265 PS) and 400 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed DSG transmission and all-wheel drive. The vehicle accelerates from zero to 100 kmph in 6.3 seconds, with a top speed of 231 kmph.
The vehicle is equipped with progressive steering and the latest-generation Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) Plus, which allows drivers to adjust damping characteristics. The Driving Mode Select offers multiple settings, including Eco, Comfort, Normal, Sport, Individual, Snow and a dedicated Off-Road mode.
The exterior includes black accents on the grille frame, mirrors, window frames, roof rails, and the D-pillar. The front features a bumper with black elements and a horizontal light strip in the grille. The rear includes a full-width reflector, blacked-out lettering, and stainless-steel exhaust tips. The SUV is fitted with 20-inch Elias alloy wheels and is available in Moon White, Magic Black, Velvet Red and Steel Grey.
Honda Cars India Reports 5,243 Unit Wholesales In June 2026
- By MT Bureau
- July 01, 2026
Honda Cars India (HCIL), a leading passenger vehicle manufacturer, has announced wholesales of 8,788 units in June 2026.
In the domestic market, the company sold 5,243 units and 3,545 units for export, which marks 71.5 percent YoY, when the company sold 4,618 units domestically and exported 506 units.
Kunal Behl, Vice-President, Marketing & Sales, Honda Cars India, said, "The launch of new City and India Premiere of global SUV Honda ZR-V has generated strong momentum for our overall sales including Amaze and Elevate during June, driven by healthy customer demand and a positive market response. With Monsoon conditions expected to improve during July, we hope to sustain this positive momentum in the months ahead.
“The deliveries of ZR-V are also scheduled to begin from July. It will draw discerning new customers and prospects into Honda showrooms, enhancing our premium brand appeal and unlocking new growth opportunities,” he added.
Renault India Reports 4,063 Unit Wholesales For June 2026
- By MT Bureau
- July 01, 2026
French automotive company Renault India has recorded 4,063 domestic wholesale units in June 2026, a 55 percent YoY increase compared to the previous year. This also marks the 10th consecutive month of double-digit growth for the company.
Interestingly, for H1 CY2026, the company reported sales of 25,844 units, representing 61 percent YoY growth.
During June, Renault India began exports of the Duster, dispatching 750 units to South Africa. The company stated that this performance reflects customer response to its product strategy and demand across its portfolio.
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