Lotus Cars has entered India for the first time in its history and will offer a lineup of Lifestyle EV models focusing on technology and outright performance.
Keen to redefine the essence of driving by promising an experience that is as exhilarating as it is opulent, the iconic British car brand will offer Eletre R all-electric hyper-SUV to begin with.
Available in three versions (Eletre, Eletre S and Eletre R), the vehicle is part of a new breed of pure electric SUVs and takes the core principles and Lotus DNA from almost 75 years of sports car design and engineering, evolving them into a desirable all-new lifestyle car for the next generation of Lotus customers.
The Eletre comes in 603 hp single-speed version with a maximum range of 600 km. The Eletre R, on the other hand, comes with the flagship 905 hp dual-speed system and has a maximum range of 490 km. Torque figures are 710 and 985 Nm respectively, delivering a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) performance of either 4.5 or 2.95 seconds.
The 112-kWh battery for both versions has a charging time (10 percent to 80 percent) of just 20 minutes using a rapid charger. The Eletre incorporates some very interesting and tech intensive features such as an advanced ‘digital cockpit’, Lotus Hyper OS (that uses ‘Unreal Engine’ technology from the gaming industry with state-of-the-art processing power enabled by two Qualcomm 8155 System-On-Chips), next-generation Digital Head Unit (from global mobility tech company ECARX), Dolby Atmos, a 15-speaker KEF speaker system, five drive modes, active air suspension, torque vectoring, matrix LED headlights, active front grille and 22-inch 10-spoke forged wheels.
Later in 2024, Lotus will bring the Emira into the market. It is its latest and final internal combustion sports car. It is a continuation of a long history of mid-engine highly acclaimed sports car that Lotus became most famous for in the last decades.
Taking over from its predecessors, the Emira carries over all the driving dynamics and capabilities expected from a Lotus and adds to them a layer of refinement and performance technology.
Coming in two choices of engines, a 2-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 360 hp or a six-cylinder supercharged version of the engine that puts out 400 hp, the Emira will highlight the capabilities of Lotus built machines in a traditional way.
Satya Bagla, Managing Director, Exclusive Motors India, said, "We are excited to bring Lotus cars to India, where we envision a future dedicated to serving our customers with the best-in-class brands. With extensive expertise in delivering bespoke experiences to our customers, our dedication lies in fostering excellence and enthusiasm throughout every journey, igniting the path forward with Lotus's unparalleled spirit. Our cars are a fusion of cutting-edge technology and automotive artistry, offering a driving experience like no other."
Hyundai Venue HX5+ Variant Launched At INR 999,900
- By MT Bureau
- January 02, 2026
Hyundai Motor India has introduced a new HX5+ variant for its recently launched all-new Hyundai Venue compact SUV at INR 999,900 (ex-showroom).
Equipped with the Kappa 1.2-litre petrol engine – MT, the HX5+ variant gets roof rails, Quad Beam LED Headlamps, rear window sunshade, smartphone wireless charger, driver console armrest with storage, rear wiper & washer and driver power window with auto up-down & safety. It also gets driver seat height adjustment.
Tarun Garg, Managing Director & CEO, Hyundai Motor India, said, “The all-new Hyundai Venue has witnessed an overwhelming response from customers, with more than 50,000 bookings already received. The introduction of the new HX5+ variant enhances all-new Venue’s value proposition with added comfort and convenience features that align with evolving customer expectations.”
“HMIL continues to stand for trust, quality and long-term value, delivering products that resonate with the aspirations of millions across our country. We are deeply committed to India and Indian customers and the introduction of the Hyundai Venue HX 5+ variant marks another milestone in our journey to delight customers with products that truly reflect their aspirations,” he said.
Kia India, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has announced the prices for its popular SUV the all-new Kia Seltos, starting at INR 1.09 million (ex-showroom).
In its second generation, the Seltos is manufactured at the company’s Anantapur facility and is intended to compete in the mid-SUV segment through a range of updates to its dimensions, technology and safety features.
The vehicle is built on Kia’s K3 platform, which is making its debut in India. The SUV has a length of 4,460 mm, a width of 1,830 mm and a wheelbase of 2,690 mm. Exterior features include a digital grille design, automatic door handles and LED projection headlamps. The model is available in 10 monotone colours and features alloy wheels up to 18 inches.
Inside, the cabin features a 30-inch display panel and a leatherette-wrapped steering wheel. Technical specifications include a Bose 8-speaker audio system, wireless smartphone integration and a proximity unlock function. Comfort is managed through a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory settings, ventilated front seats, and a dual-pane sunroof.
Safety systems consist of a standard pack of 24 features, including six airbags, an anti-lock brake system and hill-start assist. The vehicle also incorporates Level-2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) with 21 autonomous functions. The powertrain options include 1.5-litre petrol, 1.5-litre turbo petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engines. These are paired with six transmission options, including manual, iMT, IVT, DCT and automatic gearboxes.
Gwanggu Lee, Managing Director & CEO, Kia India, said, “The all-new Kia Seltos marks a strong evolution of a nameplate that has shaped Kia’s journey in India. With this new generation, our intent is clear – to redefine the mid-SUV segment by raising standards across space, safety, technology and overall ownership experience, while delivering exceptional value to our customers. This strategic approach strengthens our competitiveness, reinforces customer confidence in the brand, and positions Kia strongly to regain momentum and market share in one of India’s most important SUV segments. True to its BADASS legacy, the all-new Seltos reflects our long-term commitment to offering well-balanced, future-ready SUVs designed for modern Indian families.”
Ownership support includes service bookings via the MyKia app and extended warranty options for up to seven years. At present, Kia has established a network of 821 touchpoints across 369 cities in India.
Honda Cars India Sells 5,807 Units In December 2025
- By MT Bureau
- January 01, 2026
Honda Cars India (HCIL) has announced its domestic wholesales of 5,807 units in December 2025, which was 3.6 percent YoY, as compared to 5,603 units sold last year.
Furthermore, the company exported 2,352 units last month, as compared to 3,857 units a year ago.
Kunal Behl, Vice-President, Marketing & Sales, Honda Cars India, said, “We closed December with good sales growth, carrying forward the positive momentum achieved since GST 2.0 implementation. Demand remained robust across all models Honda Amaze, City and Elevate, with each contributing strongly to overall performance. The new year 2026 is expected to unlock new opportunities, with multiple product launches scheduled during the year.”
Renault India Sells 3,845 Units In December 2025
- By MT Bureau
- January 01, 2026
European automaker Renault India has reported its wholesales for December 2025 with 33.4 percent YoY growth at 3,845 units.
For second half of 2025, the company saw 18.2 per cent growth. Renault India stated that sales in Q4 CY2025 rose by 27.3 percent on the back of the recent launch of the Triber in July and the Kiger in August.
During 2025, Renault India implemented several measures:
- Opening of ‘R’ stores.
- Establishment of the Renault Design Centre in India.
- Introduction of a 3-year warranty.
- Acquisition of 100 percent ownership of its manufacturing facility.
The company has scheduled the unveiling of the Duster for 26 January 2026.
Stephane Deblaise, CEO, Renault Group India, said, “The H2 performance of CY2025 clearly reflects the direction we have taken for Renault in India. After a phase of portfolio transition, the consistent recovery from Q3 onwards – culminating in a strong Q4 and our best monthly performance in December, confirms that the course correction we initiated is delivering tangible results. The momentum we are seeing today is a direct outcome of that approach. With the right building blocks now in place, we are entering the next phase with confidence, and the return of the iconic Duster will mark a significant step forward in Renault’s renewed journey in India.”
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