Czech car manufacturer Škoda has launched the RS versions of the next-generation Kodiaq and the revamped Škoda Octavia.

Both provide greater power than previously, together with daily comfort and economy, thanks to the new 2.0 TSI engine, which has 195 kW (265 hp). Additionally, they both come with a wide range of standard features, including the KESSY Advanced system, LED rear lights with dynamic turn indicators and state-of-the-art LED matrix beam headlights. The RS models now have an even more unique external look, owing to aerodynamically optimised components like diffusers and spoilers on the new front and rear bumpers, as well as visible exhaust tips, in addition to many body features finished in glossy black.

The models’ already low drag coefficient has been further reduced by large RS-exclusive, aerodynamically optimised alloy wheels. They immediately highlight the cars' sporting characteristics with red-painted brake callipers and sizes up to 19 inches on the Octavia and 20 inches on the Kodiaq. Excellent driving qualities are made possible by standard features including variable-ratio progressive steering for both RS variants and a lowered sports suspension for the Octavia RS. The infotainment system and Virtual Cockpit have modified graphics, and the interior is primarily black with black headlining, red contrasting stitching on the door panelling and mostly black seats. Integrated head restraints are a feature of the ergonomic front sports seats designed specifically for RS.

Klaus Zellmer, Škoda Auto CEO, said, “What a feeling! Škoda's popular RS models ignite customer passion by delivering exhilarating performance. They have become icons of driving by blending thrilling sportiness, everyday practicality and accessibility with a strong emotional appeal. From the pioneering Octavia RS, we've expanded into a diverse lineup of highly coveted models. The Kodiaq RS brought the RS excitement to SUVs, and with the Enyaq RS and Enyaq RS Coupé, we've seamlessly transitioned that spirit into the electric age. Now, the new RS versions of the next-generation Kodiaq and revamped Octavia are further elevating their driving dynamics to captivate and excite even more enthusiasts across the globe.”

Mumbai-based automotive major Mahindra & Mahindra has announced its wholesales for April 2025 at 84,170 vehicles, a growth of 19 percent, including exports.

The auto major sold a total of 52,330 SUVs in the domestic market, which was 28 percent higher than 41,008 SUVs sold for the same period last year. Commercial vehicle sales in the domestic market came at 22,989 units, which was 4 percent YoY. 

Veejay Nakra, President, Automotive Division, Mahindra & Mahindra, said, “Building on the strong momentum of last year's performance, we began the year on a strong note in April by achieving SUV sales of 52,330 units, a growth of 28 percent and total vehicle sales of 84,170 units, a 19 percent growth over the same month last year. These numbers indicate the strength of our portfolio and customer offerings.”

JSW MG Motor India, a leading passenger vehicles manufacturer, has announced its wholesales for April 2025.

The company reported sales of 5,829 units, which was 23 percent higher over April 2024, when it sold 4,725 vehicles.

Interestingly, the automaker's popular offering, the Windsor EV, has continued to be the top-selling electric passenger vehicle for the seventh month in a row.

JSW MG Motor India's Windsor EV has now gone home to over 20,000 customers.

Maruti Suzuki India, the country’s largest carmaker, has reported its wholesales of 179,791 units in April 2025, marking a 7 percent increase compared to 168,089 units sold in April 2024. The growth was primarily propelled by strong performance in utility vehicles and a sharp rise in export volumes.

Domestic sales, including passenger and light commercial vehicles, remained flat with 142,053 units, as compared to 140,448 units in April 2024. Within this, light commercial vehicles (LCVs) like the Super Carry saw a significant jump of 34.2 percent, with sales rising to 3,349 units from 2,496 units last year.

In the passenger vehicle segment, SUVs such as the Brezza, Ertiga, Grand Vitara and others recorded a 4.4 percent increase, selling 59,022 units compared to 56,553 in the previous year. However, sales for Eeco declined by 5.2 percent, while the mini segment (Alto, S-Presso) saw a sharp 45 percent drop, falling to 6,332 units from 11,519 units. The compact segment, which includes high-volume models like the Baleno and Swift, grew by 8.1 percent, reaching 61,591 units.

Sales to Toyota Kirloskar Motor rose sharply by 79.2 percent, from 5,481 units to 9,827 units, indicating a growing demand for cross-badged products.

The standout performer was the export segment, which surged 26 percent to 27,911 units from 22,160 units in April 2024. This strong export growth helped bolster the company’s overall numbers despite weaknesses in domestic sub-segments.

While some product lines such as the mid-size sedan Ciaz (-63 percent) continue to struggle.

Tata Motors reported total wholesales of 72,753 units for April 2025, reflecting a 6 percent year-on-year decline from 77,521 units in April 2024.

The passenger vehicle (PV) segment, including electric vehicles, accounted for 45,532 units, down 5 percent from 47,983 units in the same month last year. Within this, domestic PV sales dropped 6 percent to 45,199 units, while international business (IB) sales rose significantly to 333 units, up from 100 units. Electric vehicle sales (domestic + IB) declined 16 percent year-on-year to 5,318 units.

Commercial vehicle (CV) sales stood at 27,221 units, marking an 8 percent YoY drop from 29,538 units in April 2024. Domestic CV sales contracted 10 percent to 25,764 units, while CV exports (IB) grew 43 percent to 1,457 units. Key sub-segments like Small Commercial Vehicles (SCV) and pickups saw a steep 23 percent decline.

Despite growth in certain categories like ILMCV trucks and passenger carriers, overall sales momentum was tempered across both PV and CV segments.