Mahindra Introduces AutoSHIFT Transmission, Connected Car Technology in Petrol XUV300
- By MT Bureau
- February 03, 2021
Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (M&M) introduced AutoSHIFT- it’s automatic transmission technology on the petrol XUV300. Alongside, the company also introduced the BlueSense Plus, its connected SUV technology on the W8(O) variant.
The AutoSHIFT technology co-developed by Marelli aims to deliver an effortless, smooth and fatigue-free clutchless drive along with an option to take manual control and enjoy the driving experience. The companies have equipped the gearbox with an advance ‘Creep’ function that allows for comfortable handling in congested city traffic or tricky parking scenarios.
Other features of the automatic gearbox include hill start assist to prevent rollback and creep disable on door open prevents the vehicle from moving when the door is open.
The BlueSense Plus connected SUV technology on the W8(O) AutoSHIFT variant offers features like Remote Vehicle Control to lock/ unlock doors and find my car, Location-based functions like tracking and sharing, Safety functions and more. The technology is powered by an embedded SIM, that allows one to stay connected and get information at their fingertips.
Talking about the launch, Veejay Nakra, CEO, Automotive Division said, “Today, we launch our innovative auto transmission AutoSHIFT on petrol, which uses advanced technology to offer an effortless city drive as well as on the highways. We also introduce today the BlueSense Plus, our connected SUV technology with 40+ features, that will seamlessly integrate the XUV300 into the always-connected world of today’s consumer.”
Other updates include the addition of an electric sunroof from its mid variant in both manual and automatic and the introduction of new colours - Dual-tone Red and Dual-tone Aquamarine on all W8(O) AutoSHIFT variants and an all-new Galaxy Grey on its manual W6, W8 and W8(O) variants.
The W6 petrol AutoSHIFT variant of the XUV300 now starts at INR 9.95 lakhs (ex-showroom Mumbai), and deliveries will begin mid-February. (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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