All the three cars are powered by BS-VI compliant Turbocharged Stratified Injection (TSI) engines. The Rapid will have the new 1.0 TSI petrol engine with a power output of 110 PS (81 kW) and a fuel efficiency of 18.97 kmpl. The Superb range, Laurin & Klement and SportLine, get the new 190 PS (140 kW) 2.0 TSI petrol engine that accelerates from a standstill to a 100 km/h in 7.7 seconds and has a top speed of 239 km/h. The all-new Karoq is powered by 150 PS (110 kW) 1.5 TSI petrol engine mated with an automatic seven-speed DSG gearbox delivering a fuel efficiency figure of 16.95 kmpl (high phase WLTP) and a top speed of 202 km/h.
The company set the precedence in the contactless automotive purchase ecosystem with the market introduction of the Octavia RS 245 over its centralized booking platform early this year. The overwhelming response from automobile enthusiasts and brand loyalists from across the nation prompted the Czech marque, celebrating 125 years of its rich history and heritage, to broaden the scope of its digital endeavours. Under the 'India 2.0' project, the company will expand its geographical presence in the subcontinent, from 80 dealership facilities across 65 cities, today, to over 200 touchpoints across 150 cities, by 2025.
Talking about the unique features of the cars Zac Hollis, Brand Director, Skoda Auto India, said TSI technology offers blistering power delivery without compromising on fuel efficiency and reduction of harmful CO2 emissions in line with BS-VI norms. It manages to straddle these extremes by combining direct petrol injection with turbocharging, an elegant, ingenious solution that satisfies not just technical and legal requirements, but driving thrill and fuel efficiency expectations.
There are five main elements that come together to create the magic known as TSI. Turbo charging increases the density of air pumped into the chamber. This ensures that combustion is particularly efficient, while at the same time helps raise the power output of TSI engines substantially as compared to conventional, naturally aspirated engines. It is designed to deliver maximum torque from engine speeds as low as 1500 or 1,750 revs per minute, delivering responsiveness and drivability. Acceleration is virtually instantaneous across gear ratios, allowing for safe, overtaking smoother climbs uphill. And, of course, to get the adrenaline pumping.
The Intercooler, working in tandem with the Turbo, lowers the temperature of the air that is fed into the engine. This more dense, oxygen-rich air helps improve the combustion, while also increasing reliability and reducing the possibility of detonation or engine knocking.
Compact construction; in the past, it used to be said that there was no replacement for displacement. It is not anymore as the TSI engine features a cast aluminum alloy block and dye forged steel crankshaft for strength. Of course, turbocharging helps in extracting more power from a smaller engine. While fewer moving parts translate to a significant reduction in power loss caused by friction, the compact construction also means a lighter weight for the vehicle to shift, on the move.
Fuel stratified injection is a direct outcome of development in a high position technology and material sciences in the TSI range of engines. Fuel is injected into the combustion chamber directly. The new state-of-the-art injector, with six valves for electronic direct injection, has been designed to further optimize an efficient distribution of fuel mixture or automisation. It is the leaner fuel mixture that helps the TSI engine offer exceptional fuel economy. At the same time, power delivery is much more linear and there are no unpleasant bumps or peaks in the middle of the red band.
Finally, an active cylinder management helped the company to move ahead in its quest for offering better fuel economy, depending on the power requirement.
The new Karoq comes with 1.5 TSI petrol engine, mated with an automatic seven-speed DSG gearbox, delivering 150 PS of power and a peak torque output of 250 Nm, while delivering a fuel efficiency figure of 16.95 kmpl (high phase WLTP) and a top speed of 202 km/h. With Active Cylinder Technology, to further boost the fuel economy, two of the four cylinders in the TSI powertrain are deactivated, in view of the power requirement.
The new version of Superb comes in two trim options - the Sportline and L&K variants. It gets a 2-litre, four-cylinder TSI petrol motor with a seven-speed DSG gearbox delivering 190 PS of power and a peak torque output of 320 Nm while delivering a fuel efficiency figure of 15.10 kmpl. It accelerates from a standstill to a 100 km/h in mere 7.7 seconds and has a top speed of 239 km/h.
The mid-size sedan Skoda Rapid is the economical one of all three of them. The diesel variants of the Rapid have been discontinued and the new one comes with a 1-litre, three-cylinder turbocharged petrol motor that puts out 110 PS of power at 5,000 rpm and 175 Nm of torque at 1,750 rpm. Mated with the six-speed manual transmission it offers 18.97 kmpl under standard test conditions. When compared with the outgoing 1.6 MPI engine, the new car offers a five percent upsurge in power and a 14 percent rise in torque output. At the same time it offers a 23% increase in fuel efficiency against the previous motor.
“2020 is a special year for us; it’s our 125th anniversary and Skoda will leave no stone unturned for the success of these three new vehicles. We are already receiving encouraging numbers of bookings for the three new models and Skoda is also accepting online booking as the portal integrates 80 dealerships online. The entire contact less experience will make sure that our customer is safe. We are offering 100 percent ex-showroom funding plus you can buy a car now and pay only somewhere near Diwali. We have low EMI and also offer loyalty benefits too,” Hollis said. (MT)
Hyundai Bayon To Feature 69% High-Strength Steel Grade For Enhanced Safety
- By MT Bureau
- October 21, 2026
Hyundai Motor India, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has detailed the safety specifications and platform architecture for its upcoming Bayon SUV model ahead of its official launch in India on 26 October 2026.
Built on the Global K Enhanced Platform, the Bayon utilises a body structure comprising of 69 percent high-strength steel grades, integrating hot-stamped components across the front apron, dashboard, rear floor and side reinforcements.
The vehicle incorporates Hyundai SmartSense Level 2 Pro ADAS, providing 23 driver assistance features supported by three radar units and 12 parking sensors. Over 35 safety features are fitted as standard across all variants, including six airbags, electronic stability control, hill-start assist control, a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and ISOFIX child seat anchors.
The Bayon will be powered by a 1.5-litre MPi four-cylinder petrol engine producing 84.4 kW (115 PS) and 143.8 Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed manual or an Intelligent Variable Transmission. Exterior options will span 10 colour configurations across monotone, dual-tone, and matte finishes.
Tarun Garg, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Hyundai Motor India, said, "At Hyundai, we believe that true innovation is meaningful only when it enhances the everyday experiences of our customers. With the Hyundai BAYON, we have combined a robust body structure, advanced safety technologies, and intelligent driver assistance systems to deliver a comprehensive safety experience. From its reinforced chassis and high-strength steel construction to Hyundai SmartSense Level 2 Pro ADAS, the BAYON is engineered to inspire confidence not only in challenging situations, but throughout every journey. This reflects our commitment to delivering intelligent mobility solutions that are safe, connected, and progressive for modern India."
Mitsubishi Motors Launches All-New Pajero In Thailand Ahead Of Global Rollout
- By MT Bureau
- October 21, 2026
Japanese automotive major Mitsubishi Motors has commenced sales of the Pajero cross-country SUV in Thailand, serving as the initial market for the model’s international release.
The Pajero’s production takes place at the Laem Chabang facility operated by Mitsubishi Motors in Chonburi Province, which functions as a manufacturing hub for export operations.
Shipments to Australia and Japan are scheduled ahead of market releases in mid-December, followed by sequential introductions across approximately 100 countries and regions in the Middle East and Latin America starting in fiscal 2027.
The Pajero integrates four-wheel-drive capability with passenger car handling characteristics and positioning as a flagship offering.
Keisuke Kishiura, President and Chief Operating Officer, Mitsubishi Motors, said, "We are delighted to begin sales of the all-new Pajero in Thailand as the first market for its global rollout. Thailand is not only an important market for Mitsubishi Motors, but also a key hub for our production and exports. The all-new Pajero is a flagship model that embodies Mitsubishi Motors and is positioned among the top-tier cross-country SUVs in the Thai market. We will continue to deliver appealing products from Thailand to customers around the world and provide value that exceeds expectations."
Param Automotive Inaugurates Upgraded Mahindra Showroom In Ahmedabad
- By MT Bureau
- October 20, 2026
Param Automotive Group has inaugurated an upgraded dealership facility in Ahmedabad to mark its silver jubilee year.
Located at the site established in 2002, the facility spans 40,000 square feet and features display space for 18 vehicles.
The showroom includes customer lounges, delivery zones, accessory bays, test-drive areas and hospitality spaces to support vehicle sales and customer service operations.
BMW Group Expands Lucknow Facility To House MINI Brand Operations
- By MT Bureau
- October 19, 2026
BMW Group India has integrated the MINI brand into its Speed Motorwagen dealership in Lucknow, creating a multi-brand retail facility representing BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad under one roof.
The Retail.NEXT facility is spread across a 12,142-square-foot showroom for BMW and MINI alongside a 2,088-square-foot pre-owned vehicle display area. The showroom accommodates eight BMW vehicles, three certified pre-owned units and two MINI vehicles.
The site also includes a 2,100-square-foot BMW Motorrad display area featuring 11 motorcycles, supported by dedicated service workshops comprising mechanical, electrical and programming bays. MINI's introduction in Uttar Pradesh aligns with the brand's national retail footprint, which spans 18 sales touchpoints across 17 cities.
Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India, said, "Lucknow is an important luxury market, with customers increasingly seeking brands that reflect their individuality and aspirations. Since 2012, BMW has shaped this market through a compelling portfolio, exceptional experiences and a strong local presence. We lead the luxury electric vehicle segment in Uttar Pradesh, reflecting the growing preference for progressive, sustainable mobility and the strength of our electric portfolio. MINI with its unmistakable style, spirited performance and distinctive character, is a natural fit for Lucknow’s refined taste and appreciation for self-expression. Together with Speed Motorwagen, we are strengthening the power of choice by bringing BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad under one roof, supported by personalised attention and seamless ownership support."
Divij Narain, Dealer Principal of Speed Motorwagen, said, "The arrival of MINI marks a significant milestone for Speed Motorwagen and discerning automotive enthusiasts in Lucknow. Alongside BMW’s progressive luxury and BMW Motorrad’s spirit of freedom and adventure, MINI adds a distinctive new dimension to our portfolio. Our team is committed to bringing each brand to life through thoughtfully curated product discovery, expert consultation and comprehensive aftersales care. We look forward to nurturing passionate communities across all three brands and ensuring every customer interaction is as memorable and individual as the mobility experience they choose."
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