Mercedes-Benz unveiled its Concept CLA Class, a new electric iteration of the CLA, alongside the latest Gelandwagen and a Mercedes-Maybach ultra-luxury SUV at the Bharat Mobility Expo 2025. Positioned as the electric successor to the CLA, the Concept CLA Class is the first model to feature the Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA). It debuts the brand’s latest operating system, alongside fresh design and technological updates.

The Concept CLA Class previews the latest electric-drive technology from Mercedes-Benz, drawn directly from the Vision EQXX concept. With a claimed range exceeding 750 km and an energy consumption of 12 kWh/100 km, it has been dubbed the "one-litre car for the electric age" in reference to hyper-efficient internal combustion vehicles. The 800V electric architecture supports 250 kW DC fast charging, enabling the vehicle to recharge up to 400 km in just 15 minutes. Two battery variants are available: silicon-oxide anode for higher-spec models and lithium-iron phosphate for entry-level variants. Powering the vehicle is a 235 bhp permanently excited synchronous motor coupled with a 2-speed transmission. Weighing only 110 kg, the powertrain delivers an impressive 93% energy efficiency during long-distance driving.

Built on the MMA platform, the Concept CLA Class is designed primarily for electric drivetrains but also accommodates combustion engines. The vehicle is rear-wheel-drive by default, though the modular platform can be configured for all-wheel-drive. The concept also includes bi-directional charging, enabling vehicle-to-home (V2H), vehicle-to-grid (V2G), and vehicle-to-appliance (V2A) functions, underscoring its potential for smart energy integration.

Inside, the MBUX Superscreen delivers a full-width digital dashboard powered by the new MB.OS operating system. It integrates Google Maps and other embedded apps for a seamless user experience. Notable interior features include digitally visualised AC vents with floating effects and physical control interfaces, dynamic ambient lighting in blue and violet, and sustainable nappa leather upholstery in silver and crystal white. The cabin is also designed with advanced Level 3 Lidar-based autonomous driving capabilities, with over-the-air updates enabling future upgrades to higher levels of autonomy.

A standout safety feature is the Child Presence Detection (CPD) system, which uses cameras and sensors to detect breathing patterns. If a child is left unattended, the system triggers air conditioning, sounds the horn, and issues alerts to mitigate risks in hot weather.

Mercedes-Benz plans to launch the Concept CLA Class in India in 2025. The production model will closely resemble the concept and will offer Indian buyers a preview of the future of luxury electric mobility. Pricing details are yet to be announced.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Hyundai Motor India has opened bookings for its upcoming Bayon crossover SUV ahead of its scheduled release during the upcoming festive season. Customers can reserve the vehicle online via the official company portal or at authorised dealerships for a booking amount of INR 11,000.

The 4.2-metre vehicle is constructed on the company's Global K Enhanced Platform, engineered to meet five-star Indian crash safety parameters. Positioned as an intelligent utility vehicle, the Bayon claims to introduce an integrated generative artificial intelligence voice assistant designed to process driver interactions and vehicle controls.

Powering the vehicle is a petrol engine offered with a choice of a manual transmission or an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT). Exterior design elements encompass a sculpted bonnet, front daytime running lights, geometric wheel arches, door cladding and bridge-type roof rails, while the interior layout optimises legroom, headroom and shoulder room across both rows.

Tarun Garg, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Hyundai Motor India, said, “At Hyundai Motor India, we continuously strive to redefine mobility experiences through meaningful innovation. The Hyundai BAYON embodies our vision of intelligent mobility by seamlessly integrating advanced technology, futuristic design and comprehensive safety into a compelling SUV package. Hyundai BAYON has been developed for new-age Indian customers who seek more from their vehicles: more intelligence, more comfort, more confidence and more style. Hyundai BAYON introduces a new dimension of human-centric technology and unlocks a truly intuitive mobility experience. We are confident that Hyundai BAYON will set new benchmarks and resonate strongly with modern Indian consumers.”

Delivery timelines for the vehicle will be confirmed at the time of its official commercial launch.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Mumbai-headquartered automotive major Mahindra & Mahindra has launched the Thar OG, an updated version of its three-door lifestyle utility vehicle, with introductory prices starting at INR 1.03 million ex-showroom.

The vehicle succeeds the three-door model introduced in 2020, with deliveries scheduled to begin on 11 October 2026. Introductory pricing will remain valid for vehicle deliveries completed through 30 November 2026.

Underpinning the Thar OG is the M_Glyde 4G platform, paired with a rear Pentalink suspension setup featuring a Watts Linkage and frequency-dependent damping technology.

Mechanical revisions include electric power steering, an electronic locking differential and selectable terrain modes covering mud, sand and snow.

The Thar comes with three engine options: a 2.0-litre G20 TGDi mStallion petrol engine generating 119 kW and 330 Nm of torque, a 2.2-litre D22 mHawk diesel engine generating 111.9 kW and 330 Nm of torque, and a 1.5-litre D117 CRDe diesel engine producing 87.2 kW and 300 Nm of torque.

On the outside it features a redesigned front grille, circular LED headlights with C-shaped daytime running lights, revised front and rear bumpers, LED fog lamps with cornering functions and 19-inch alloy wheels.

Interior equipment includes leatherette upholstery, a 26.03 cm infotainment touchscreen, rear air-conditioning vents, wireless charging, and a soft rear armrest. Safety features encompass four-wheel disc brakes, electronic stability control, front parking sensors, and six airbags, including side pelvis and thorax airbags.

Dr Velusamy R, President, Automotive Business – Mahindra & Mahindra, said, “The Thar is not just an SUV, it is an emotion. With over 4 lakh customers, it has become one of India's most successful lifestyle SUV brands. With the Thar OG, we have elevated the iconic three-door Thar through significant advances in on-road refinement and off-road capability. Built on the advanced M_Glyde 4G platform, it features technologies such as DAVINCI Damping, Rear PENTALINK suspension with Watts Link, Electronic Locking Differential and Electric Power Steering. Together, these deliver the best ride quality, handling, stability and driving confidence ever offered in a Thar, while preserving the authentic capability and rugged character that enthusiasts cherish. We are confident the Thar OG will further strengthen the brand and attract a new generation of enthusiasts.”

Pratap Bose, Chief Design & Creative Officer for Auto & Farm Sectors, Mahindra & Mahindra, said, “The Thar is one of the most iconic and emotionally resonant nameplates in Indian automotive history, representing authenticity, adventure and a character that has inspired generations of enthusiasts. Designing the Thar OG was never about reinventing an icon but making it even more Thar. Our vision was to preserve its authentic, boxy attitude, strong stance and unmistakable silhouette, while evolving it for a new generation. The new grille, classic circular LED headlamps, signature C-shaped DRLs, LED fog lamps and new R19 alloys enhance its purposeful and instantly recognisable presence. Every design element balances functionality with iconic road presence, reinforcing the Thar’s ability to go anywhere, anytime.”

Nalinikanth Gollagunta, CEO – Automotive Division, Mahindra & Mahindra, said, “The Thar has evolved far beyond being an SUV. It has become an icon that represents freedom, adventure and a way of life for an entire generation of customers. Every new chapter in its journey has expanded its appeal while remaining rooted in the authenticity and capability that have always defined the Thar. The Thar OG is our commitment to that community and to the countless new enthusiasts waiting to join it. With enhanced ride comfort, driving dynamics and capability, the Thar OG takes everything our customers love about the Thar and raises it to a new level.”

The vehicle lineup spans AXT, LXT, and ZXT trims across rear-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive configurations, with manual and automatic transmission choices. Pricing ranges up to INR 1.89 million for top-specification four-wheel-drive diesel variants.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Mumbai-headquartered automotive major Tata Motors has announced the introduction of the Tata Sierra Dark edition, adding an all-black design package to its mid-size sport utility vehicle range. The prices for the variant start at INR 1.39 million ex-showroom for the base manual option.

The Dark model features a Friesian Black exterior finish, a Violet Eclipse interior theme and purple chrome trim elements. The treatment retains the vehicle's body structure and feature set while applying black leatherette upholstery inside the cabin. It is available across multiple trim levels, including the Pure L, Pure L (O), Pure + L, Adventure + L, Accomplished, and Accomplished + personas within the Legend Series line-up.

Vivek Srivatsa, Chief Commercial Officer, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility, said, "The #DARK range has become one of the most sought-after expressions in our portfolio, resonating strongly with customers who value exclusivity and distinctive design. As the SUV that created the Premium Mid-SUV segment in India, the Sierra has always stood apart through its iconic design and commanding presence. The Sierra #DARK brings together the legacy of two powerful icons, preserving everything that makes the Sierra legendary while elevating it through a more premium, sophisticated and exclusive interpretation. The result is a Sierra that remains unmistakably true to its heritage, while embodying the bold and distinctive spirit that has made the #DARK range so aspirational."

The Sierra continues to be available with the 1.5-litre Revotron petrol engine, the 1.5-litre Kryojet diesel engine and the 1.5-litre Hyperion petrol unit, paired with manual, dual-clutch automatic and torque-converter automatic transmissions options.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

German luxury automotive brand BMW India has introduced the updated BMW 7 Series range, offering petrol and battery-electric powertrains across the lineup at prices starting at INR 19.5 million (ex-showroom).

The launch includes the BMW i7 M70 xDrive performance model, alongside the local production launch of the electric i7 at the BMW Group Plant in Chennai.

With local assembly of the i7 in Chennai, India becomes the second country after Germany to produce the electric model locally. The performance-focused i7 M70 xDrive will be imported into the country as a completely built-up unit (CBU) with deliveries across the 7 Series portfolio scheduled to begin in October 2026.

Furthermore, the company also introduced actor Ranveer Singh as the Brand Voice for BMW India at the launch.

Pricing for the petrol-powered 740 M Sport and all-electric i7 eDrive50 xDrive M Sport starts at INR 19.5 million, while the flagship i7 M70 xDrive is positioned at INR 26.5 million (all ex-showroom).

Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO of BMW Group India, said: "The new BMW 7 Series is more than our flagship sedan - it is our ultimate statement of modern luxury. It moves the leaders, changemakers and visionaries who are shaping tomorrow. Every detail has been crafted around one idea: those who have reached the pinnacle deserve an experience to match. The new 7 Series sets a benchmark, whether you choose to take the wheel or be driven. It is the new face of the BMW Luxury Class, while offering an early glimpse into technologies that will shape the Neue Klasse era. And with our Power of Choice philosophy, customers can choose from dynamic combustion engines to advanced electric mobility. Because true luxury is not about limiting choices - it is about expanding them. With the new 7, luxury doesn’t end with the drive; it begins there."

"The new BMW i7 M70 xDrive is the most powerful 7 Series ever created - where M performance meets first-class luxury, without compromise. It brings together exhilarating electric performance and the refinement expected from the pinnacle of the BMW portfolio. This is a car for someone who wants the thrill of taking the wheel and, equally, the luxury of being driven. Few cars can make the driver’s seat and the rear seat equally desirable. The i7 M70 does. It represents our belief that sustainability and performance are not competing choices. The future of luxury can be electric, exhilarating and extraordinary - all at once," added Brar.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!