Skoda Auto India is making waves at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 in New Delhi, held from January 17 to 22. With an impressive showcase of eight models, Skoda’s pavilion in Hall 3-01 at Bharat Mandapam exemplifies its century-old global legacy of innovation, performance and its steadfast commitment to sustainable mobility.

The Skoda Kylaq, the brand’s first-ever sub-4-metre SUV designed specifically for India, is a highlight of the expo. The Kylaq in Olive Gold seamlessly combines contemporary design with cutting-edge engineering. Powered by a reliable 1.0 TSI engine with options for a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, it is available in four variants and seven colours. Its robust safety features, earning it a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating, underscore Skoda’s emphasis on passenger protection.

Skoda’s all-new Kodiaq stands as a testament to luxury and versatility. This seven-seater 4x4 SUV combines spacious interiors with refined driving dynamics and off-road capabilities, making it an ideal choice for those seeking comfort and adventure in one package. Equally impressive is the fourth-generation Skoda Superb, a sedan that redefines elegance and sophistication. With its premium features and spacious interiors, the Superb continues to set benchmarks in the executive sedan category.

The facelifted Skoda Octavia vRS, a performance icon, returns to the spotlight with its thrilling agility and dynamic driving experience. Renowned for its speed and precision, it remains a favourite among enthusiasts. Adding to Skoda’s innovative line-up is the Elroq, an entry-level global EV that balances sleek design, practicality and environmental consciousness, positioning itself as a promising addition to Europe’s EV market.

Skoda’s Vision 7S, a futuristic concept car, offers a glimpse into the future of mobility. This vehicle embodies Skoda’s Modern Solid design language and showcases sustainability and advanced technology. It represents the brand’s commitment to driving electric mobility forward with intuitive and eco-friendly innovations.

The Skoda pavilion at the expo is designed to engage visitors through four unique zones. The Safety Zone highlights Skoda’s dedication to passenger protection, a core pillar of its engineering philosophy. The Power Zone celebrates the brand’s racing heritage with simulators and soundscapes, while the Sustainability Zone underscores Skoda’s eco-friendly initiatives and evolving product line-up. Finally, the Luxury Zone showcases Skoda’s craftsmanship, offering a blend of style and superior comfort.

An accessorised version of the Kylaq is also on display, featuring over 30 bespoke additions. From UV-protect sun blinds to premium 7D spill-proof mats, this version sets a new standard for personalisation, catering to the unique preferences of Indian consumers.

As Skoda Auto celebrates 130 years globally and 25 years in India, the brand reinforces its dedication to combining European engineering excellence with the evolving needs of the Indian market. By integrating innovation and sustainability, Škoda continues to pave the way for a greener and more dynamic future in mobility.

Speaking on the company’s participation, Brand Director Petr Janeba said, “The Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 is a remarkable opportunity for us to demonstrate our evolving global and Indian portfolio of ICE and EV vehicles. India is the second leg we stand on globally outside Europe and is a key market for us. From the all-new Kylaq to our insight into the future with the Vision 7S, all our models showcased at Bharat Mobility Expo focus on delivering innovation along with European design and performance for the ever-important Indian market. The technology and design from these products are going to be the key to our further expansion in India and our endeavour to attract newer customers in the Škoda Auto India family.”

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South Korean auto major Hyundai Motor India (HMIL) held its first Investor Day, announcing a strategic roadmap that includes an investment of INR 450 billion by FY2030. The plan covers product expansion, manufacturing, localisation and financial targets.

The company envisions Hyundai Motor India becoming the second largest region within Hyundai Motor Company globally by 2030 and reinforcing its position as a key export hub.

The automaker plans 26 launches by FY2030, including seven new nameplates, entering the MPV and off-road SUV segments. Furthermore, it also plans to launch India’s first, locally manufactured dedicated electric SUV under the Hyundai nameplate by 2027. It also envisions a domestic market share of over 15 percent by FY2030.

Hyundai Motor India expects the Utility Vehicle (UV) segment to contribute over 80 percent of sales and for alternative fuel-powered vehicles (CNG + EV + Hybrid) to contribute more than 50 percent by FY2030.

The South Korean auto major also confirmed that it will bring its luxury brand Genesis in India by 2027. Furthermore, exports are expected to contribute around 30 percent by 2030 too.

In terms of financial performance, Hyundai Motor India targets a 1.5x increase in revenues, crossing a INR 1,000 billion milestone by FY2030, while sustaining double-digit EBITDA margins.

Jose Munoz, President & CEO, Hyundai Motor Company, said, “Following our landmark IPO last year and 29 years of success in India, now HMIL plans an investment of INR 450 billion through FY2030 to drive the next phase of growth. India is a strategic priority in Hyundai’s global growth vision. By 2030, HMIL will be our second-largest region globally, aligned with the Honorable Prime Minister Shri. Narendra Modi's vision of ‘Make in India.’ We're making India a global export hub, targeting upto 30 percent export contribution. Our commitment is comprehensive: 26 product launches including 7 new nameplates, India's first locally manufactured dedicated electric SUV by 2027 and the launch of our luxury brand Genesis, all while treating every customer like our honoured guest. The fundamentals are strong. The strategy is clear. The team is energised. And most importantly, we have the trust of Indian customers built over 29 years. It's a great time to be at Hyundai Motor India.”

Unsoo Kim, Managing Director, Hyundai Motor India, said, “Our robust investment plans reflect HMIL’s strategic expansion and our vision to deliver smart mobility solutions enriched with world-class products and cutting-edge technologies for India’s aspiring and fast-growing customer base. As we chart this growth trajectory, we are targeting a revenue milestone of INR 1,000 billion by FY2030, while sustaining strong double-digit EBITDA margins. Most importantly, we remain deeply committed to creating long-term value for our shareholders by announcing a healthy dividend payout guidance of 20% – 40 percent.”

Tarun Garg, Whole-time Director & COO, Hyundai Motor India, added, “This transformative 2030 roadmap serves as a pivotal catalyst in redefining HMIL’s growth trajectory and propelling us to new heights through well-aided strategic initiatives. As we chart our course through this transformative evolution, HMIL sets out target to achieve over 15 percent market share in domestic market underpinned by India centric product launches. We remain steadfast to augment our presence in high-growth SUV segment driven by robust product strategy and customer centric approach, thereby, targeting over 80 percent UV contribution by FY2030.”

He also noted that the company is set to offer a range of powertrain options spanning ICE, CNG, EV and Hybrid technologies, with over 50 percent of its portfolio powered by cleaner technologies. By FY2030, the company’s network will extend to 85 percent of India’s districts, with rural markets expected to contribute 30 percent of sales.

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Hyundai Motor India (HMIL), one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has announced the appointment of Tarun Garg as its next Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 January 2026, subject to shareholder approval.

This makes Garg the first Indian national to take on this leadership role in the company since Hyundai Motor India’s establishment 29 years ago.

Garg currently serves as the Whole-time Director and COO of HMIL, and will succeed Unsoo Kim, who is set to return to a strategic role at Hyundai Motor Company (HMC), South Korea.

Jose Munoz, President and CEO, Hyundai Motor Company, said, “Tarun’s appointment as the first Indian national to lead HMIL is a defining moment in our nearly three-decade history. He is a transformative leader who brings a progressive vision combined with deep understanding of the Indian market. Under his guidance as COO, HMIL achieved record sales for three consecutive years, record-breaking profits and completed India's largest IPO in 2024. He is a people-first leader who understands that success happens when you treat customers like honoured guests, empower your teams and invest for the long term. I would also like to thank Unsoo for his hard work and dedication in helping lay the foundation for the success HMIL enjoys today. We wish you luck on your next assignment.”

Unsoo Kim, said, “Having worked closely with Tarun over the years, I have witnessed firsthand his unwavering commitment and visionary thinking, qualities that have played a pivotal role in shaping and executing the core initiatives driving HMIL’s growth in India. I hold the utmost confidence in Tarun’s exceptional intellect and foresight, and I am confident that under his stewardship, HMIL will continue to ascend to even greater heights.”

Commenting on his elevation, Garg, expressed, “I am deeply honoured by the trust and confidence placed in me by Hyundai Motor Group. India’s automotive sector is in an exciting phase of transformation and I aim to contribute to HMIL’s continued growth in this market by stepping into this role. Success in this industry demands excellence across every touchpoint, from design and engineering to manufacturing, sales and service and I am fortunate to work alongside Hyundai’s talented employees, dealer partners and supplier partners who make it all possible. Together, we will stay focused on strengthening HMIL’s legacy of customer delight and loyalty built over past 29 years, ensuring our journey continues to shape the future of mobility and build lasting connections in India.”

Going forward, Garg’s focus will be on four key pillars: Future Strategy Focussed, Market & People Centred, Customer Orientation and further Impetus to Make in India. This strategy will aim to strengthen customer satisfaction, build a supply chain and establish India as a global export hub for mobility solutions.

Garg has over three decades of industry experience and had been instrumental to lead Hyundai Motor India to its highest-ever sales for three consecutive years, delivered record-breaking profits and achieved the highest EBITDA margin in FY2024. He was the Chief Orchestrator of HMIL’s Initial Public Offering (IPO) in 2024, which was the largest public offering in the history of the Indian equity markets.

He is also credited to have spearheaded digital transformation through the MyHyundai app for customers and HSMART for dealers. He also launched “Samarth by Hyundai,” an initiative for people with disabilities in India.

Prior to joining Hyundai Motor India in 2019, Garg held roles at Maruti Suzuki India (MSIL), including Executive Director of Marketing, Logistics, Parts, and Accessories. He holds a Mechanical Engineering degree from Delhi Technological University and an MBA from the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Lucknow.

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The new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman All4 has officially arrived in India, making its debut at the Buddh International Circuit. This high-performance SUV is now available for booking through MINI’s authorised dealerships across the country and will be offered as a completely built-up unit, with customer deliveries set to begin shortly.

Priced from INR 6,490,000 (ex-showroom), this model represents the most potent MINI ever introduced to the Indian market. Its performance is driven by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder TwinPower Turbo petrol engine that generates 300 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque. This power enables a remarkable 0 to 100 kmph sprint in just 5.4 seconds, cementing its status as the brand's fastest offering in India, with an electronically limited top speed of 250 kmph. Power is managed by a 7-Speed Double Clutch Steptronic Sport Transmission and an intelligent all-wheel-drive system, ensuring precise power distribution for both on-road agility and off-road capability. A dedicated Boost function provides immediate access to peak performance for dynamic driving situations.

The vehicle's design boldly communicates its performance character. It features a redesigned octagonal grille, distinctive LED headlights and a newly styled JCW logo. Exterior highlights include contrasting roof and mirror cap options, sporty Chili Red accents, a quad exhaust system and standard 19-inch JCW alloy wheels. The interior continues this sporty yet sophisticated theme with JCW-specific sports seats, a premium steering wheel with aluminium paddles and a minimalist cockpit design focused on the driver. Practicality is a key strength, thanks to an adjustable rear seat and a versatile luggage compartment that expands from 500 to 1,450 litres, complemented by a panoramic glass roof.

Technology is seamlessly integrated through a central OLED display running the MINI Operating System 9, which supports touch and voice commands via the ‘Hey MINI’ personal assistant. A unique Toggle Bar consolidates key driving controls and sits above a wireless smartphone charging area. The cabin experience is further enhanced by a head-up display, a Harman Kardon sound system and an innovative fisheye camera for capturing in-car moments. The driving experience can be personalised through various Experience Modes, which alter the vehicle's ambient lighting, sound and graphics.

Safety and assistance are comprehensive, featuring front and side curtain airbags, Dynamic Stability Control, a 360-degree camera, Park Assist and Comfort Access. The ownership package includes a two-year unlimited kilometre warranty, 24/7 roadside assistance and optional service plans that can be extended up to 10 years. Through BMW India Financial Services, prospective owners can access tailored MINI Smart Finance solutions, with monthly instalments beginning at approximately INR 64,900, which includes an assured buyback option at the end of the term.

Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India, said, “The MINI John Cooper Works Countryman is a masterclass in performance and style, perfectly blending power, adventure and exhilarating drive. Born from the legendary John Cooper Works racing heritage, this car embodies the spirit of motorsport, with performance and precision at its core. Built to excel in every environment, this John Cooper Works is engineered to dominate the track, city streets and rugged terrain alike. With its impressive capabilities and dynamic design, the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman ALL4 is the most powerful MINI ever.”

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Japanese luxury brand Lexus India has introduced the new Lexus LM 350h limousine in the country.

The LM 350h is claimed to set a benchmark for first-class travel, focusing on a calm and productive experience. Improvements include: An E20-compliant engine, supporting sustainability. Power sliding door switch at the rear console for convenience and intuitive control. Auto-dimming ORVM function for safety and driver comfort in the four-seater variant. A new rear console tray for rear-seat occupants in the four-seater variant.

Hikaru Ikeuchi, President, Lexus India, said, "We are truly humbled by the overwhelming response from our guests to the Lexus LM 350h and wish to sincerely thank our customers for their patience in waiting for this exceptional vehicle. The LM is a testament to our unwavering commitment to luxury, featuring grand interiors and an exclusive private lounge that redefines comfort and sophistication. It sets a new benchmark in first-class luxury travel, offering our guests an unparalleled experience of refinement, prestige and indulgence in India."

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