Osamu Suzuki, the man who led Suzuki Motor Corporation for over five decades and was the longest serving head of a global automaker for more than 28 years as president, passed away on 27 December 2024 due to lymphoma.

A former bank employee Osamu Matsuda took over his wife’s surname Suzuki after their marriage. He joined Suzuki Motor Corporation in 1958 and worked in several roles before assuming the role of President in 1978.

It was in 1982, when the Indian government was scouting for bringing automotive manufacturing in India, Suzuki Motor Corporation picked up 26 percent stake in Maruti Udyog. This set the stepping stone for where Maruti Suzuki India is today.

Among various achievements, he will be fondly remembered for his bet on entering the Indian automotive market, which now serves as one of the largest markets for Suzuki Motor Corp.

As per media reports, Toshihiro Suzuki, the eldest son of Osamu Suzuki issued a statement that said: “The funeral was held privately with close family members until the ashes were interred. We respectfully decline condolence ceremonies, perfumes, flowers, condolence telegrams, etc.”

A statement issued by Maruti Suzuki India said, "Maruti Suzuki is deeply saddened on the passing of Osamu Suzuki, Senior Advisor, Suzuki Motor Corporation and Director & Honorary Chairman, Maruti Suzuki India. O. Suzuki was a visionary leader whose remarkable contributions shaped the global automobile industry. In India, his foresight and leadership were instrumental in the formation of Maruti Udyog in 1981. With his vision O. Suzuki played the pivotal role in realising the dream of putting India on wheels by empowering millions of Indian families with affordable, reliable, efficient and good quality vehicles. Under his stewardship, Indian automobile industry adopted the Japanese manufacturing and work practices that are globally recognised for teamwork, productivity and cost effectiveness. O. Suzuki’s legacy will live on as an inspiration to all of us at Maruti Suzuki and the entire automotive community in India. His passion to bring smiles to people’s lives through mobility will forever be cherished. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, business partners and colleagues in this moment of distress."

R C Bhargava, Chairman, Maruti Suzuki India, said, “It is with the deepest personal sorrow that I have learnt of the passing of Osamu Suzuki San. Without his vision and foresight, his willingness to take a risk that no one else was willing to take, his deep and abiding love for India, and his immense capabilities as a teacher, I believe the Indian automobile industry could not have become the powerhouse that it has become. Millions of us in this country are living better lives because of Osamu San. He won and enjoyed the trust of several Prime Ministers. He had a very close understanding with the present Prime Minister, Narendra Modi. Osamu San’s contribution to the Indian economy, and for building bridges between India and Japan was acknowledged by the conferment of the Padma Bhushan on him.”

“He will be missed by his innumerable admirers and beneficiaries in the country. I have lost someone who was closer than a brother to me. He changed my life and showed how nationality is no barrier to people building unbreakable bonds of trust in each other. He was my teacher, mentor and a person who stood by me even in my darkest days. If I played a role in the success of Maruti, it was because I was his student and he had taught me how best to grow a company and make it competitive.”

“Osamu San came to Delhi at the end of July this year despite not being in good health. He came because he wanted to attend my 90th birthday. It was the most touching event in my life. Little did I know that this would be the last time I would see him. Osamu San will no longer be there to guide us. His legacy and teachings will never be forgotten and he will be remembered every time Maruti reaches another milestone as a part of the progress of India. May God give strength to his family to bear this irreparable loss,” added Bhargava.

Shradha Suri Marwah, President, ACMA & CMD, Subros, said, “It is with profound sorrow that we bid farewell to Osamu Suzuki, the legendary former Chairman of Suzuki Motor Corporation, whose visionary leadership and indomitable spirit transformed the global automotive industry. Over his remarkable career spanning several decades, he was instrumental in shaping Suzuki into one of the most trusted and admired automobile brands worldwide. His exceptional contributions to India through Maruti Suzuki not only revolutionised the Indian automotive landscape but also strengthened the bonds between India and Japan, fostering a partnership that set benchmarks for the global auto industry and the creation of a robust supply chain that empowered countless businesses. A trailblazer, mentor, and innovator, Suzuki's unwavering commitment to excellence, humility, and sustainability has left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege to know him. His legacy will continue to inspire generations in the automotive and business communities. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the entire Suzuki Motor Corporation family during this time of grief.” 

Image: File photo: Flickr

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Hyundai Motor India (HMIL), one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has launched the new Hyundai Exter compact SUV with a starting price of INR 579,900.

The new Exter features more than 25 enhancements across its design and technology. It remains the tallest vehicle in its segment, measuring 1,643 mm in height and offers a wheelbase of 2,450 mm. Exterior updates include redesigned front and rear bumpers and a black radiator grille. New R15 diamond-cut alloy wheels and a wing-type spoiler. Additions of wheel arch cladding and a new centre garnish for the front facia.

The cabin introduces a dual-tone Navy and Grey theme with a 3D carbon-pattern dashboard finish. It gets segment-first metal pedals and a built-in dashcam. A wireless smartphone integration for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, alongside a Type-C USB port for rear passengers. A boot capacity of 391 litres for petrol variants. More than 60 connected car features and 300 voice commands through Hyundai Bluelink.

The Exter comes with a 1.2 l Kappa Petrol engine, available with either a manual or AMT transmission. It also offers a Hy-CNG Duo variant featuring dual cylinders and an underbody spare tyre, which preserves 225 litres of luggage space.

Safety Specifications:

• Standard Safety: 30 features are standard across all variants, including six airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC).
• Advanced Features: The vehicle includes more than 45 advanced safety features in total.

Tarun Garg, Managing Director & CEO, Hyundai Motor India, said, "Since its debut, the Hyundai Exter has received an overwhelming response, earning the trust of over 200,000 customers across India. With its bold design and segment defining features, Hyundai Exter has played a pivotal role in reimagining the segment. Building on this strong foundation, the new Hyundai Exter embodies a reinvigorated spirit of 'Drive to shine', with refreshed styling, a more premium cabin, smarter connectivity and an enhanced safety package. These upgrades further strengthen its appeal among families and young explorers seeking a versatile SUV that seamlessly blends style, practicality and everyday usability. The new Hyundai Exter reaffirms HMIL's commitment to delivering world class technology, superior safety and a reliable SUV for young and ambitious India."

The new Exter is available in seven monotone and one dual-tone colour options, including the new Golden Bronze and Titanium Black Matte.

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Japanese automotive major Nissan Motor India has introduced a 55-minute vehicle exchange initiative in partnership with Spinny. The programme allows customers to have their current vehicles evaluated on-site and apply exchange bonuses toward the purchase of a new Nissan vehicle within an hour.

The service is supported by dedicated evaluators across 30 cities. To facilitate the process, Spinny counters have been established at Nissan sales touchpoints, providing real-time assessments.

Key features of the collaboration include:

• Documentation: A 'selling letter' issued by Spinny is accepted as valid proof of exchange, removing the requirement for transferred RC documentation at the point of transaction.
• Lead Generation: The partnership integrates digital and physical touchpoints to manage used inventory and generate incremental leads for the dealer ecosystem.
• Product Eligibility: The programme applies to Nissan’s current India line-up, including the Magnite and the recently launched Nissan Gravite, which entered the market at an introductory price of INR 565,000.

Saurabh Vatsa, Managing Director, Nissan Motor India, said, “At Nissan Motor India, we are committed to building a customer-first ecosystem that simplifies every stage of the ownership journey. Strengthening our collaboration with Spinny and introducing faster exchange timelines reinforces our focus on convenience, transparency, and value for our customers and dealer partners - while supporting our broader growth in the country.”

Niraj Singh, Founder & CEO, Spinny, said, “Our continued partnership with Nissan Motor India represents a shared commitment to simplifying car ownership journeys. With faster exchanges, expanded evaluator presence, and integrated dealership touchpoints, we are working together to make car upgrades seamless, transparent, and rewarding for customers across India.”

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European auto major Stellantis has announced it will feature eight brands at the Paris Motor Show, scheduled for 12 to 18 October 2026. The group’s presence will be more than double that of the 2024 edition, occupying a 5,340-square-metre space in Hall 4 of the Porte de Versailles.

The exhibition will feature over 60 vehicles, including one public premiere and one European premiere:

• Lancia Gamma: Making its French debut, this flagship fastback will be produced at the Melfi plant. The model marks the brand's return to the upper segments and will offer both full-electric and hybrid powertrains.
• Leapmotor B03: A compact all-electric B-hatch making its European debut. The brand will also preview the B03X crossover and B05 hatch, both scheduled for launch in the second half of 2026.
• DS N°7: Official launch of the compact SUV, offering hybrid and fully electric versions with a range of up to 740 km.
• Fiat: The brand will unveil two new C-segment models and a concept car, alongside the Grande Panda and the Tris three-wheeled electric solution.

The automaker will have an interactive stand that will be divided into dedicated areas reflecting the specific identities of the participating brands:

“Inside its impressive 5,340-square-meter stand, located in Hall 4 of the Porte de Versailles exhibition centre, Stellantis will showcase more than 60 vehicles, highlighting a line-up capable of meeting every customer need – from urban micromobility to longer and more demanding journeys – thanks to the right balance of design, performance and functionality,” the company said in a statement.

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Italian supercar manufacturer Automobili Lamborghini has recorded the highest revenue in its history for the 2025 fiscal year, reaching EUR 3.20 billion, which marks a 3.3 percent increase over the previous year and marks the second consecutive year the company has exceeded the EUR 3 billion threshold.

The company reported an operating income of EUR 768 million with a profitability rate of 24 percent. These figures were achieved despite a volatile macroeconomic environment and specific exogenous pressures.

Key Financial Impacts:

• Currency and Trade: Negative exchange rate fluctuations and the introduction of US tariffs influenced the operating result.
• Strategic Investment: Costs associated with the Direzione Cor Tauri electrification strategy were fully accounted for during the financial year.
• Mitigation: The impact of these factors was moderated through a refined product mix and cost control measures.

In 2025, Lamborghini delivered 10,747 cars, surpassing the 10,000-unit mark for the third year in a row. A significant driver of value was the Ad Personam personalisation programme, with 94 percent of all vehicles delivered featuring at least one bespoke element.

The Revuelto and the newly launched Temerario, which began customer deliveries in early 2026 – form the core of the brand's hybridisation strategy. The Temerario features a powertrain capable of 10,000 rpm, a first for a production engine from the manufacturer.

The current range, including the Revuelto, Urus SE and Temerario, is now fully hybridised. Lamborghini has also confirmed plans for a fourth hybrid model as part of its long-term industrial vision, which remains focused on sustainable growth alongside the eventual development of a fully electric vehicle.

For 2026, the company intends to unveil further product developments at international events, including the Goodwood Festival of Speed and Monterey Car Week.

Stephan Winkelmann, Chairman and CEO, Automobili Lamborghini, said, “2025 shows that the strength of Automobili Lamborghini lies not only in numbers, but in our ability to manage complexity. In a challenging global context, we continued to grow, protecting profitability and further strengthening brand value. Our strategy is clear: discipline, long-term vision and product centrality. This balance allows us to turn external challenges into opportunities for consolidation and to continue creating sustainable value.”

Paolo Poma, Managing Director and CFO, Automobili Lamborghini, said, “External factors and the volatility of the broader macroeconomic environment made 2025 a particularly challenging year. In this context, we have closed a positive financial and business 12 months, safeguarding our level of profitability, which positions us among the most profitable players in the global luxury sector. The results achieved confirm our objective of sustainable growth while preserving profitability.”

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