The next generation Evoque’s interior, while maintaining the original design subtly, takes forward its elegant lines; the sophisticated surfaces work in harmony with contemporary materials to ensure a tailored and compelling environment. Cabin air ionization technology enhances the well-being of both the driver and the passengers. It improves air quality in the vehicle cabin by removing allergens, viruses, airborne bacteria and associated odours.

Touch Pro Duo offers customisable homescreens and fast response times. The dual high-definition touchscreens allow the user to view required information while interacting with additional features, for increased flexibility and efficiency of use. For instance, it enables you to use the navigation system in the upper screen while playing media on the lower screen. In addition to normal controls, direct access to cabin temperature controls is provided through the multi-function dynamic dials.

The high definition Interactive Driver Display can receive and project  vast amount of driving information, entertainment and active safety data including navigation, phone and media.

lnControl Remote App provides information about the vehicle and enables the user interact with it even when he is not with the vehicle. Compatible with most smart phones and smart watches, this service includes: Remote Lock and Unlock, Remote Climate, Beep / Flash, Journey Tracking and Vehicle Status Check.

Smartphone pack helps stay connected to smart phone even while in the car. This pack allows vehicle-optimised apps on Android or Apple smart phone to be controlled through the touchscreen, including contacts, calendar and music player.

Meridian’s audio technology input has helped enhance music experience as its cabin correction technology was deployed to analyse cabin shape, acoustics and resonance characteristics in order to help remove unwanted sounds.

Clear Sight Interior Rear View Mirror, a first for Land Rover, is an innovative new technology that provides an unobstructed view of the road behind regardless of objects that would normally disrupt it through a standard rear view mirror.

Driver Condition Monitor detects the alertness of the driver and gives an early warning when a break is required. Lane Keep Assist detects when the vehicle is unintentionally drifting out of the lane, and applies a corrective torque to the steering wheel, encouraging you to guide your vehicle back.

Park Assist makes parallel and bay parking easier by steering the vehicle into a suitable space. It can also steer the vehicle out of a parallel parking space, taking all of the stress out of parking. This is an interesting feature as taking the vehicle out of tight parking spot is a challenge.

Clear Exit Monitor helps passengers exit the vehicle safely by providing a warning of approaching hazards, such as passing vehicles and cyclists. When a passenger begins to unlatch the door, a small warning light will illuminate if an oncoming hazard is detected.

Drivetrain

Range Rover Evoque features All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and it intelligently controls torque distribution between the front and rear axle via an electronically-controlled multi-plate clutch. Terrain Response 2 takes the capabilities of the system to a new level. This features an automatic setting which monitors the current driving conditions and systematically selects the most suitable terrain setting.

Land Rover‘s patented Hill Descent Control (HDC) assists the driver with the controlled descents of difficult slopes. It does so by maintaining a constant speed and applying braking separately to each wheel. Hill Launch Assist ensures the vehicle doesn‘t roll backwards as it pulls away on an incline. Torque Vectoring by Braking delivers controlled, responsive cornering by reducing near-limit understeer through controlled braking of the inside wheels.

Rohit Suri, President and Managing Director, Jaguar Land Rover India, said, “The Range Rover Evoque packs fresh enhancements in design and technology, setting new standards in refinement and capability. We are confident that our latest offering with its sophisticated design and high technology quotient will build strong appeal among all Land Rover fans.” (MT)

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Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd has revealed that it will launch the XUV 7XO, which is based on the XUV 700, on 05 January 2026. A premium SUV segment vehicle, the XUV 7XO, the company claims, will be a gamechanger. Said to have been crafted to inspire and engineered to excite, combining the proven strengths of the XUV700 with superior design, technology, comfort and performance, the XUV 7XO is expected to be a feature a fascia with the new signature grille design and '7'-shape sleeker LED head lamps. 
Claimed to draw an amount of design and styling details from the new seven-seater electric SUV the company introduced recently, the XUV 7XO is expected to built on the technologies that made the XUV 700 a competitively priced tech savvy SUV with monocoque construction and an option of an AWD. As an ICE vehicle the 7XO is expected to further the gamut of features found on the XUV 700, including the ADAS Level 2 suite. 

The XUV 7XO is expected to replace the XUV 700 over a period of time if not immediately. 

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BMW India has enhanced its top-selling premium electric vehicle, the locally produced iX1 Long Wheelbase, with a new exterior colour and expanded upholstery selections, available for booking nationwide. The model now presents a fresh Night Dusk Blue metallic paint, deepening its sophisticated and commanding aesthetic alongside existing shades like Carbon Black and Mineral White. Inside, the cabin gains two new sustainably sourced vegan leather options: Veganza Smoke White + Atlas Grey dual tone and Veganza Castanea. These are distinguished by a premium 3D stitching pattern, emphasising both craftsmanship and modern, eco-conscious luxury.

A defining interior design philosophy, the 'Cocooning Effect’, extends the chosen upholstery colour cohesively across the cabin. This approach envelops the door panels, dashboard and speaker mesh, creating a harmonious and immersive environment that is both plush and visually continuous. The iX1 LWB’s interior is characterised by a spacious, modern design that merges innovative functionality with superior materials.

As the brand’s highest-selling electric model, the iX1 has been pivotal to BMW’s leadership in India’s luxury EV segment. The company has consistently adapted the vehicle to market preferences, introducing features like the Surround View Camera and now refreshing its colour and trim options. In under a year, it has become the best-selling electric vehicle in its premium category.

The vehicle combines practicality with sustainability, boasting segment-leading dimensions that make it one of the longest five-seater SUVs in India. Its bold exterior stance is matched by advanced fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology. This integrated drive unit delivers 204 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque, powered by a 66.4 kWh battery capable of up to 531 kilometres on a single charge. Features like adaptive recuperation and one-pedal driving further enhance efficiency and convenience, solidifying its position as a comprehensive premium electric package.

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In what may come as a surprise to many, the made-in-India Hyundai Grand i10 has scored a zero star rating for adult occupant protection in Global NCAP’s #SaferCarsForAfrica campaign.

While the model did score three stars for child occupant protection, the test identified shortcomings in adult occupant protection, which resulted in a risk of life-threatening injuries. The Indian-built model was tested as part of the campaign and the results are valid for South Africa.

The Hyundai’s standard safety equipment includes driver and passenger frontal airbags, but none for side body or head protection, and no Electronic Stability Control (ESC).

The crash test report noted the following:

• Weak protection was concerning for the driver’s chest in the frontal impact test.
• The side impact test indicated a high risk of non-recoverable chest injuries, leading to a strong probability of life-threatening injuries for the adult occupant. Maximum allowed injury levels in a body region such as the chest were exceeded, resulting in zero points for adult occupant protection.
• In the frontal impact test, the bodyshell and footwell were rated as unstable and could not withstand further loading.
• There was no standard side body or head protection, and the Seat Belt Reminder (SBR) was only for the driver.
• There was no standard ESC.

Richard Woods, Chief Executive Officer, Global NCAP, said, “It is unacceptable to see the continued double standard on safety in low and middle-income countries. Democratising vehicle safety in Africa is a Global NCAP priority, and consumers deserve safer vehicles regardless of where in the world they live.”

Bobby Ramagwede, CEO, Automobile Association of South Africa, said, “These results are deeply concerning and highlight a continuing pattern in which vehicles sold in Africa do not meet the same safety standards applied in other regions. South African motorists deserve better. The Hyundai Grand i10’s zero-star rating reinforces the urgent need for manufacturers to commit to equal safety for all markets. This result underlines why Africa urgently needs stronger regulatory standards and greater manufacturer accountability. The AA believes no vehicle should be sold here without side protection systems and Electronic Stability Control as standard. Safety should never be optional, and certainly not reserved for markets outside Africa.”

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Japanese luxury brand Lexus India has introduced a new ‘Exquisite’ grade to its RX 350h line-up, strengthening the model’s presence in the luxury SUV segment.

The new RX 350h Exquisite grade starts at INR 8.99 million (ex-showroom), which goes up to INR 10.09 million (ex-showroom).

The RX 350h Exquisite grade features Lexus’ hybrid system, which combines a highly efficient 2.5-litre inline 4-cylinder engine and high-output motor. It includes a bipolar nickel-metal hydride battery with enhanced performance. On the inside, it gets 10-way power adjusted front seats, heated and ventilated seating for front & rear seats and ambient lighting.

The RX 500h F-SPORT grade is the only Performance Hybrid Electric Turbocharged Luxury SUV in India. The 2.4 L-T HEV on the RX 500h features a front unit integrating a 2.4-L turbocharged engine, motor, a 6-speed automatic transmission and an eAxle with a built-in high output motor driving the rear wheels. The RX 500h features Dynamic Rear-Wheel Steering and DIRECT4 technology for acceleration.

The RX features a Mark Levinson 21-speaker audio system and offers Lexus Safety System+ with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Cross Traffic Alert and Safe Exit Assist with Blind Spot Monitor.

Between January and November this year, the RX model recorded 12 percent growth, reflecting rising demand for luxury SUVs in the country. During the same period, SUVs contributed about 40 percent to Lexus India’s overall performance, underscoring the RX’s pivotal role in driving the brand’s momentum.

Hikaru Ikeuchi, President, Lexus India, said, ‘The Lexus RX represents our dedication to luxury, design, performance, and sustainable mobility. As the luxury SUV segment continues to grow, the introduction of the new Exquisite grade allows us to offer guests a wider range of options and features to choose from. This enhancement reflects our continued commitment to expanding our portfolio and elevating the Lexus experience in India, supported by advanced technology and a guest-first philosophy.”

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