Skoda launched the fourth generation of its popular small car, the Fabia, at the DOX Centre for Contemporary Art on May 4, 2021.

Twenty-two years after the debut of the Fabia, Skoda has now launched the fourth-generation model built on Volkswagen's MQB-A0 platform. The introduction of the new platform and some clever engineering makes the new Fabia a more spacious car than its peers. In its latest avatar, the Fabia boasts of improved comfort features and numerous advanced safety and assistance systems previously only reserved for high-tier vehicles.

Exterior:

The new Fabia has grown, with the length increasing by 111 mm to exceed the four-metre mark at 4,108 mm and the width by 48 mm. The wheelbase has also increased from 2470 mm to 2564 mm, freeing up more space on the interiors for added comfort and freeing 50l of additional boot space to a total of 380l, the largest boot in the segment.

As shown in the design renders, the new Fabia features sculpted lines on the bonnet with dynamic proportions and the SKODA-typical crystalline structures, creating a particularly emotive look. Skoda has managed to incorporate the triangle on the Czech flag with the body lines on the front doors as a small Easter egg.

The modern light unit with LED technology features Razor-sharp headlights, as well as taillights. The full-LED headlights feature cornering and adaptive light functions.

Skoda has computed more than 3,000 CFD simulations (computational fluid dynamic) to create a design that sets industry benchmarks with a low drag coefficient of 0.28. An essential part of the car's aerodynamics is the new type of cooling shutter in the front bumper's lower air inlet. These actively adjustable slats shut when slight cooling is needed. This helps improve the aerodynamics and results in better fuel savings and lower carbon emissions at constant speeds of 120 km/hr.

At the rear, the new Fabia features a large roof spoiler with side finlets that optimise the airflow at the back. The new wing mirror housings also reduce drag and direct the airflow to the rear in a targeted manner, while the vents in the front bumper, called air curtains, help channel the air in a particular way close to the side of the body and the wheels. Twelve panels now cover a large part of the underbody instead of three in crucial aerodynamics areas.  One can see Skoda's clever engineering feat in the unique plastic trims fitted in the Fabia to reduce the drag created by the wheels.

Interior:

The interior of the new Fabia is characterised by a free-standing infotainment display measuring up to 9.2 inches at the centre with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster for the first time. Facilitated by the new architecture, features like a heated windscreen and heated steering wheel will now debut on the Fabia.

The use of the MQB-A0 platform has helped free more space inside, making the new Fabia the most spacious car in its segment. The use of symmetry in the interior design and horizontal decorative strips emphasise the cabin's width, making it bigger and airy. Skoda is also offering fabric upholstered dashboard with contrast stitching on some models of the Fabia. The large circular AC vents are finished in chrome along with the newly designed door handles.

Making the interiors of the new Fabia colourful, Skoda is offering LED ambient lighting that allows the driver to illuminate that decorative dashboard trim in white or red along with the centre console and front door handles. As part of the LED ambient lighting package, Skoda also offers LED reading lights at the front and the rear. A three-spoke multi-functional steering wheel finished in leather adds a touch of sportiness to Fabia's cabin, along with the paddle shifter on the DSG model.

The optional 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster lets the drivers choose from layouts to suit their needs, including classic, modern, reduced and extended layouts along with a sports layout on the dynamics pack. The virtual cockpit also displays radio stations, album covers, maps and more.

Another first for the Fabia is the dual-zone Climatronic AC with rear vents that help cool the cabin faster. The AC system features eight buttons that operate all the functions.

Users can select from three different infotainment systems with the new Fabia based on the trim level selected.  The entry-level system Swing features a modern 6.5-inch colour touchscreen, a radio with a digital DAB receiver and four front speakers as standard. Moving higher, the Bolero offers a radio, an 8-inch screen, a Bluetooth hands-free system and two additional surround-sound speakers in the rear doors along with wireless SmartLink and Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. The range-topping Amundsen features a 9.2-inch touchscreen with gesture control, the Laura digital voice assistant and navigation function that is online backed.

The Fabia also features outstanding NVH levels thanks to the aero-acoustic simulation methods used during the car's aerodynamic development to reduce wind noise by understanding the flow of air around the vehicle.

Connectivity:

Skoda has equipped the new Fabia's 9.2-inch infotainment system with an eSIM that lets users control specific functions of the car using the SKODA Connect app. This range-topping trim also includes options for Wi-Fi hotspot, music streaming services and maps that can be stored on the 64-GB SSD hard drive and updated online. Keeping in line with the current technology, Skoda has included five USB-C sockets for charging mobile devices – one of which can be found on the rear-view mirror to charge a dashcam.

With the help of SKODA Connect, app users can transfer their existing account into the new Fabia and use the Amundsen system's display to access weather reports and news, allow access to a personal Google calendar or warn of hazards.

Safety:

The new MQB-A0 platform has made the body of the new Fabia stiffer, offering excellent active and passive safety.

Exploiting the possibilities of the new platform, Skoda has equipped the new Fabia with Travel Assist, which provides automatic support with longitudinal and lateral steering. Features like Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Assist, Park Assist, Blind Spot monitoring up to 70m away from the car, and Manoeuvre Assist use sensors to detect obstacles in front or behind the vehicle to apply brakes automatically and actively help in the safety of the occupants and the surroundings.

Another step up in safety, the Fabia comes equipped with up to nine airbags in the higher trims for occupants’ safety. Another standard across the range is the ISOFIX anchors and top tether anchor points on the back seats.

Powertrain:

Skoda has equipped the new Fabia with three engines from Volkswagen Group's latest EVO generation in five states of tune. Four of the five EURO 6d compliant engines produce a WLTP range of more than 900km.

The 1.0l MPI EVO three-cylinder petrol engine is available in either a 65 or 80hp tune while the 1.0l TSI EVO engine is available in either a 95 or 110hp tune. The 1.0l naturally aspirated engine is available with only a 5-speed manual while the 1.0l TSI engine is available with a choice of either with either a 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, or 7-speed DSG. The more powerful 1.5l TSI EVO four-cylinder engine is available in 150hp guise mated to a 7-speed DSG. (MT)

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Stellantis-owned Jeep India has launched the Jeep Compass 85th Anniversary Edition, limited to 85 units at prices starting at INR 2.67 million (ex-showroom).

The anniversary edition incorporates visual updates to the exterior and interior of the vehicle platform. External changes include 18-inch alloy wheels finished in gloss black alongside anniversary badging. The interior cabin features a black colour scheme paired with gold accents and contrast trim detailing.

Kumar Priyesh, Business Head and Director of Automotive Brands, Stellantis India, said, "The Jeep Compass has always been central to the Jeep story in India, bringing the brand's legendary capability, design and authenticity to customers who expect more from their SUV. As Jeep celebrates 85 years globally, the Compass 85th Anniversary Edition gives this iconic nameplate a distinctive new expression. With exclusive anniversary-inspired styling, curated accessories and safety technologies, this special edition has been crafted for customers who seek a Compass that feels even more personal, intelligent and exclusive."

The vehicle is offered with optional accessory packages under the brand's personalisation options. These packages add functional and cabin features, including sunroof illumination, ambient lighting, a digital inner rear-view mirror and integrated front and rear dashcams. Bookings for the limited-run vehicle have opened across the company's dealership network and online sales platform.

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German luxury car brand Mercedes-Benz India has opened its new sales facility in Lucknow in partnership with dealership operator T&T Motors. The outlet expands the company's network in Uttar Pradesh to 10 touchpoints across cities including Lucknow, Noida, Ghaziabad, Agra, Kanpur and Varanasi, contributing to a national presence of over 150 locations across more than 60 cities.

The new facility occupies 9,000 square feet, including over 5,000 square feet of carpet area and was completed in five months. The showroom accommodates four vehicle display bays, private and semi-private consultation zones, a lounge section for vehicle lines and a dedicated delivery bay. To support battery electric vehicles, the location incorporates a 180 kW DC fast charger with two charging bays, backed by a staff of 88 employees.

Brendon Sissing, Vice-President of Sales and Marketing, Mercedes-Benz India, said, “Mercedes-Benz continues to strengthen its luxury retail footprint across India, reflecting our ‘Go to Customer’ strategy. The inauguration of T&T Motors’ new facility in Lucknow marks yet another important milestone in bringing world-class luxury products, services and experiences closer to our customers. Uttar Pradesh remains an important emerging market for Mercedes-Benz, and the growing aspiration for luxury mobility in Lucknow presents strong growth potential for Mercedes-Benz. Through modern luxury infrastructure, personalised consultations, digital capabilities and EV readiness, we are elevating luxury retail experience for our discerning customers in the city.”

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Mumbai-headquartered automotive major Mahindra & Mahindra has unveiled its first global pick up christened Lifestyler, which will be launched in India as the Mahindra Scorpio Lifestyler. The vehicle will go on sale by April 2027 with prices starting below INR 1.97 million ex-showroom. 

First shown as a concept in Cape Town, South Africa, in August 2023, the pickup was designed at the Mahindra India Design Studio in Mumbai and developed at Mahindra Research Valley in Chennai. It is built on Mahindra’s next-generation body-on-frame architecture and is intended for both payload and lifestyle use. The company claims to have around 267 patents in terms of innovation for the Lifestyler.

Dr Velusamy R, President, Automotive Business, Mahindra & Mahindra, said, “From the outset, our vision was to create a world-class global pickup that raises the bar for the segment while remaining true to Mahindra's strengths in authentic capability and value. The Scorpio Lifestyler is a testament to the strong product development capabilities at Mahindra Research Valley (MRV). Built on our advanced next-generation body-on-frame architecture, it has been engineered to deliver the capability, durability, safety and refinement demanded by customers around the world.”

Pratap Bose, Chief Design and Creative Officer, Mahindra & Mahindra, said, “The Scorpio Lifestyler is inspired by how our customers work, play and explore. Combining bold exterior design, plush interiors and SUV-like comfort with unmistakable Mahindra toughness, it brings style and refinement to every journey. This philosophy is reflected in the three editions showcased today: Valley celebrates purposeful refinement, Reef embodies freedom and exploration, and Trail captures the spirit of boundless adventure. Together, they express our vision of a pickup that celebrates individuality while remaining rooted in capability, authenticity and the freedom to explore without limits.”

Nalinikanth Gollagunta, CEO, Automotive Division, Mahindra & Mahindra, said, “The Scorpio Lifestyler represents the convergence of global engineering and evolving customer aspirations. As we prepare for its India launch, we see a growing appetite among customers for a vehicle that delivers authentic capability without compromising on technology, safety, comfort or everyday usability. We are investing in building awareness, strengthening our network and creating the right ownership experience for this category. We believe the Scorpio Lifestyler has the potential to redefine expectations and shape the future of the pickup segment in India.”

While the technical details are still under the wraps, the company showcased three editions - the Valley Edition finished in Artemis Grey, the Reef Edition uses an Aquareef finish and the Trail Edition finished in Sahara Beige.

The Mahindra Lifestyler is aimed at the midsize lifestyle pickup segment in Australia and New Zealand, South Africa, Africa, the Middle East and Latin America. It has been developed to meet requirements for capability, durability, safety, technology and everyday use across those markets.

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Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, one of the leading automakers in the country, is charting a confident course for FY2027. The company is sees its multi-powertrain leadership, capacity flexibility and industry-outperformance ambitions to drive a strong H2 for fiscal 2027.

Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director and CEO, of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, struck a distinctly forward-looking tone in the company’s Q1 FY27 virtual conference, outlining a strategy built on sustained demand for alternative-energy vehicles, flexible manufacturing, product intensity and disciplined capital allocation even as the broader industry navigates inflationary and commodity headwinds.

He characterised the remainder of FY2027 as a period of continued outperformance relative to the passenger-vehicle industry. Tata Motors at 14.1 percent had already delivered growth roughly twice the industry average of 7.9 percent in FY2026 and a robust 45 percent in Q1 FY2027 as against the industry average of 25.9 percent.

The management expects this momentum to persist. Industry volumes are projected in the mid-double-digit range of 15-20 percent for the remainder of the year in some scenarios.

Tata Motors, on the other hand, is targeting sustained growth even if overall industry expansion moderates to single digits in the second half because of a high base effect from strong H2 FY2026 demand.

Inventory levels are meaningfully lower than a year earlier, creating scope for healthier retail offtake. Q2 is expected to be more challenging for the industry as a whole due to cost pressures, with the second half potentially tighter still for conventional passenger vehicles.

Chandra, however, intends to defend and expand market share through timely product refreshes, facelifts and new nameplates across both ICE and electric portfolios, while prioritising supply-side capacity increases. Waiting periods across the Tata Motors range currently stand at 4-6 weeks, reflecting healthy demand.

Hatchbacks continue to contribute around 15-20 percent of the mix, while SUVs remain the structural growth engine. Export plans include opening a significant new market next year, with a dual focus on ICE and EV products; recent export growth has been driven primarily by South Africa.

Alternative Energy Mix

The shift toward alternative powertrains is central to Chandra’s vision. Industry EV penetration has reached approximately 8 percent – the highest among passenger-vehicle markets – and is expected to climb toward 10 percent by end-FY2027.

Tata Motors’ own EV share of its portfolio has risen from around 38 percent and is targeted at upwards of 40 percent (for the remainder of the year), supported by strong customer acceptance. EV demand has jumped sharply (management noted a 3-4 times increase relative to February levels for the company), but supply remains the binding constraint rather than underlying demand. Chandra revealed that the strong demand for EVs versus supply-side constraints has led to waiting periods for EVs of around 4-6 weeks.

CNG demand is robust: industry CNG share stands near 22 percent, while Tata Motors’ mix is higher at around 27 percent. The outlook remains positive as the CNG station network expands from roughly 8,500 to 15,000-16,000 stations in the coming year. CAFÉ norms (particularly CAFÉ 3 and CAFÉ 4) will further accelerate the push toward alternative-energy vehicles; for OEMs with credible EV offerings, electrification is the most powerful compliance lever.

Sharing his perspective on hybrid technology, Chandra stated that its share in the overall PV segment has stabilised at a modest 2-2.5 percent share. Tata Motors remains ready to introduce hybrids if market conditions warrant, but current emphasis is clearly on CNG and pure electric.

In Q1 the combined CNG-plus-electric mix rose from 19-21 percent to 24 percent. Management is optimistic that EV volumes for the company could grow 70 percent in FY2027, even allowing for some high-base effects in the second half, with overall company growth of 10-15 percent still feasible.

Capacity, Cost Pressures and Capital Plans

For Tata Motors internal EV capacity is not a bottleneck since production systems are fungible and flexible; capacity has already been stepped up from 9,000 to 13,000-14,000 units and reached more than 15,000 units last month, with further increases planned.

Responding to lower-than-anticipated sales for the popular Sierra SUV, the company attributed the temporary production impact to constraints from casting and sheet-metal suppliers plus a five-day production loss at the Sanand plant due to heavy rains, but corrective actions are under way.

Profitability in the recent period was pressured primarily by commodity-price inflation (approximately 4-4.5 percent impact) plus roughly 1 percent from other factors. Cost-reduction initiatives have partially offset these headwinds; in a normalised quarter, margins would have expanded more significantly. Certain PLI benefits were deferred because of new-product launches but will be reapplied in due course.

However, it is important to note that Chandra has emphasised that CAPEX plans remain unchanged at around 6-8 percent of revenue, which will continue to be directed toward new products, technologies and capacity expansion. Management sees no need to revise the programme despite margin pressure.

On the E20 contamination issue raised in the market, Tata Motors has not experienced customer reports and was not among the OEMs that submitted data on the matter.

Jaguar Land Rover Perspective

Richard Molyneux, CFO of JLR, noted that the luxury brand is a truly global business with only a small percentage of sales in India. China remains challenging, production of legacy products (including Jaguar) has been wound down, and a fire plus broader global slowdown affected Range Rover output. Q1 is seasonally soft for JLR, but the team is optimistic about sequential improvement. India is viewed as a significant growth market going forward, supported by existing domestic assembly and imports, with plans to expand the brand’s presence rapidly.

Chandra’s message is one of controlled confidence. Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles enters the balance of FY2027 with lower inventories, a flexible multi-powertrain portfolio that is already capturing rising CNG and EV demand, fungible capacity that can scale with the market, and an intact investment programme focused on product and technology. While the industry faces near-term cost and base-effect challenges, the company’s leadership in alternative energy, combined with ongoing product intensity and supply-side focus, positions it to continue outgrowing the market and to deepen its role in India’s evolving mobility landscape.

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