Mahindra Unveils 4 New Concepts On NU_IQ Platform, Targets Global Play Starting 2027

Mahindra NU_IQ

Mumbai-headquartered automotive major Mahindra & Mahindra has unveiled its new modular, multi-energy NU_IQ platform, which it shared will serve as the foundation for a new generation of SUVs set to enter production from 2027.

The company has previewed the platform’s capabilities through four concept vehicles – Vision.S, Vision.T, Vision.SXT and Vision.X – which it claims will ‘disrupt’ the premium SUV space in both domestic and international markets.

The NU_IQ platform has been engineered to deliver flexibility across multiple vehicle types and markets. It can accommodate a range of body styles (top hats), different powertrains including internal combustion engines and electrified systems, as well as both front- and all-wheel-drive layouts. It is also designed for global deployment, supporting both right-hand-drive and left-hand-drive configurations.

Whilst, the complete product specifications are set to be announced closer to the launch, Mahindra has given a glimpse of what one can expect from the platform. These includes–

  • Command seating paired with optimised driving dynamics for comfort and control
  • Flat-floor architecture, enabling what Mahindra says will be the first production flat-floor ICE SUV
  • Lightweight structure meeting stringent safety standards
  • Generous cabin space with class-leading boot capacity
  • Next-generation integrated domain electronics architecture (NU_UX) for advanced connectivity and user experience

The company shared that the platform has been developed to remove compromises typically faced by SUV buyers, offering premium features in a wider range of models.

R Velusamy, President – Automotive Business (Designate), Mahindra & Mahindra, and Managing Director, Mahindra Electric Automobile said, “NU_IQ is a strategic blueprint for the future of Mahindra SUVs globally. With its modular, multi-energy architecture, it gives us the flexibility to innovate across multiple top hats and powertrains whilst staying true to our SUV DNA. Designed to resolve paradoxes, NU_IQ forms the foundation for our next generation of SUVs. It marks a bold step and the start of a new era that frees customers from compromises and puts truly desirable, premium core SUVs squarely in the mainstream.”

The four concept models also mark the evolution of Mahindra’s ‘HEARTCORE’ design philosophy, created jointly at the Mahindra India Design Studio (MIDS) in Mumbai and Mahindra Advanced Design Europe (MADE) in Banbury, UK.

Pratap Bose, Chief Design & Creative Officer – Auto & Farm Sectors, Mahindra & Mahindra, said, “The NU_IQ SUVs, designed at our Global Design studios in Mumbai and Banbury, represent the start of a new chapter of our HEARTCORE design philosophy. They build on the central tenet that great design should create an emotional bond between people and their vehicles while re-imagining it for a new future. Based on the theme ‘Opposites Attract’, where the juxtaposition of contrasting elements creates an expressive new design language, these concepts promise to shape experiences that inspire adventure, confidence, and connection on any terrain, anywhere in the world.”

Each concept reflects a distinct personality – from the ‘Born Iconic’ ethos of the Vision.T and Vision.SXT to the ‘Sporty Solidity’ of the Vision.S and the ‘Sculptural Athleticism’ of the Vision.X. All four have been engineered at Mahindra Research Valley in Chennai.

Global Play

Mahindra plans to introduce production versions of these vehicles starting in 2027, with a strategy to target both domestic and export markets. The company is positioning these SUVs in the premium segment, aiming to redefine the customer experience in India while also expanding into left-hand-drive markets overseas.

Nalinikanth Gollagunta, CEO – Automotive Division, Mahindra & Mahindra, and Executive Director, Mahindra Electric Automobile, said, “NU_IQ blends innovation, global design and advanced technology to disrupt the white spaces in the automotive industry in India and internationally across Right-and-Left-Hand-Drive markets. The four concepts we are showcasing here offer a bold preview of what’s to come. They usher in a new no-compromise era of mobility and give freedom a new meaning.”

With the NU_IQ platform, Mahindra is signalling a significant shift in its approach to product development, combining modular engineering, scalable technology and a global design language to address evolving consumer demands. The company’s 2027 roll-out is expected to be one of its most ambitious launches yet, marking its intent to strengthen its standing both at home and abroad.

Skoda Auto India Introduces Dual-Tone Colours For Slavia Monte Carlo

Skoda Slavia Monte Carlo

Czech automaker Skoda Auto India has added two dual-tone colour options, Shimla Green and Steel Grey, to the Slavia Monte Carlo range. The limited edition is restricted to 200 units and will be available in the 1.0 AT and 1.5 DSG variants.

The Monte Carlo version features blacked-out exterior styling elements and a black and red interior theme. Customers can select between a 1.0-litre TSI engine paired with a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission and a 1.5-litre TSI engine paired with a 7-speed DSG. The 1.5-litre unit includes Active Cylinder Technology and Plasma-Coated Cylinder Liners.

Ashish Gupta, Brand Director, Skoda Auto India, said, “The Slavia Monte Carlo has been well received by customers for its distinctive design, premium appeal, engaging driving dynamics and strong connection to our motorsport heritage. We are further enhancing the individuality and desirability of the Monte Carlo range, offering customers greater choice and exclusivity. The Slavia Monte Carlo continues to embody the perfect blend of style, performance, and modernity. We will continue to strengthen our sedan portfolio, in line with the evolving aspirations of our customers.”

The Monte Carlo trim pays homage to Skoda's involvement in the Rallye Monte Carlo.

Citroen India Launches Basalt X Comfort Edition At INR 875,000

Citroen Basalt X Comfort

Stellantis-owned French automotive brand Citroen India has announced the launch of the Basalt X Comfort Edition, priced from INR 875,000.

The new edition is introduced as part of the brand's 108th anniversary celebrations and marks the extension of Citroen’s Comfort philosophy to the Basalt lineup.

The Basalt X Comfort Edition features Metropolitan Beige Leatherette Seats as standard and introduces curated Comfort AXS Packs. These packages include equipment such as JBL Audio, dash cameras, a reverse parking camera, a wireless charger and a 10-inch Android touchscreen.

Kumar Priyesh, Business Head & Director – Automotive Brands, Stellantis India, said, "At Citroen, comfort has always been at the heart of everything we do. As we celebrate Citroen's 108th anniversary globally, the introduction of the Basalt X Comfort Edition further reinforces our commitment to bringing comfort-led innovation to Indian customers. Following the encouraging response to the Aircross Comfort Edition, we are extending this philosophy to the Basalt, making premium comfort features more accessible across our portfolio. The Basalt X Comfort Edition combines premium factory-fitted interiors with thoughtfully curated Comfort AXS Packs that enhance convenience, technology and personalisation – delivering greater value and an ownership experience that truly reflects Citroen's Advanced Comfort philosophy."

Hyundai Motor India Expands EV Charging Network To Over 30,000 Points On myHyundai App

Hyundai Motor India

Hyundai Motor India (HMIL), one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has announced that its myHyundai app provides access to over 30,000 EV charging points across India through partnerships with Charge Point Operators (CPOs).

The platform offers charging facilities within an average radius of 25 km across highways and cities. In addition to the partner network, Hyundai Motor India operates 183 DC fast-charging stations across 105 cities, with plans to expand to 600 stations by 2030. The company's charging stations are open to electric vehicles of all brands and offer capacities ranging from 60 kW to 240 kW.

Tarun Garg, MD & CEO, HMIL, said, “With charging infrastructure being a key catalyst for EV adoption in India, Hyundai Motor India is committed to creating an ecosystem that makes electric mobility practical, convenient and accessible to all. Through the integration of over 30,000 charging points on the myHyundai app, we are empowering EV users with one of India's largest charging networks accessible through a single platform. Importantly, the platform is open to EV owners across brands, reinforcing HMIL’s commitment to developing India's broader EV ecosystem. HMIL will more than triple its proprietary DC fast public charging network from 183 stations today to 600 stations by 2030, bringing India's charging infrastructure closer to global benchmarks.”

The myHyundai app provides features for location discovery, navigation, advance booking, and digital payment. Since January 2023, HMIL-owned charging services have supported over 300,000 EV users, delivered more than 5 million kWh of energy, and contributed to saving 3.5 million kg of CO2 emissions.

Hyundai Motor India plans to enter the mass-market electric vehicle segment with the introduction of an e-SUV within the current financial year.

Ferrari Launches Amalfi Spider In India

Ferrari Amalfi Spider

Italian supercar maker Ferrari has introduced the Amalfi Spider in India through a series of showcase events in Mumbai, New Delhi and Bengaluru.

The vehicle, a 2+ spider powered by a front-mid-mounted twin-turbo V8 engine, is being presented to customers and enthusiasts as part of its regional launch. The first event took place in Mumbai, hosted by official distributor Navnit Motors. Subsequent events in Bengaluru and New Delhi were hosted by Select Cars.

The Amalfi Spider features a soft-top roof that opens in 13.5 seconds and can be operated at speeds of up to 60 kmph. When folded, the roof occupies 220 mm of space, leaving luggage capacity of 255 litres with the roof closed and 172 litres with the roof open. The roof is constructed from five layers of fabric to provide insulation.

The Amalfi Spider is powered by a 640 hp turbocharged V8 engine. The interior layout features a dual-cockpit design, a steering wheel with buttons, a start button and a central display. The 2+ configuration includes rear seats and it is equipped with an integrated wind deflector. The design includes an active spoiler, forged wheels and carbon fibre elements.