Skoda attempts to take the highly contested mid-size SUV segment by storm with the Kushaq. The new car is the company's first model based on the MQB-A0-IN platform. Kushaq is the first car developed under INDIA 2.0 strategy by Skoda explicitly designed for the Indian consumer needs and its export markets.

The new SUV was first showcased as the VISION IN concept at the Delhi Auto Expo in February 2020. Following similar design cues to the concept car, the new vehicle merges the crisp and sophisticated contemporary design language of ŠKODA with exquisite details influenced by traditional Indian art and architecture. The vehicle comes equipped with all LED lighting (depending on the trim) adding to the sleek yet rugged appearance.

The Kushaq will be powered by the now refined 1.0-litre and 1.5-liter TSI engines that promise energetic performance yet outstanding mileage. Three gearbox options will be available based on the trim: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic and a familiar 7-speed DSG.

Inside the new SUV will see a radical change with an updated central infotainment screen and a virtual driver cockpit that can be customised to display the exact information for the driver. The latest offering will also come equipped with a slew of connected car features with the MySKODA Connect app. The car will come equipped with a host of active and passive safety features. ESC will come standard on all trim levels. Up to six airbags will be available in the top trim while Hill-Hold Control, rain and light sensors, tyre pressure monitors, and a cruise control system improve safety and comfort.

The MQB-A0-IN will be the first platform developed locally providing the technical basis for the upcoming Skoda cars in the country. The platform's versatility meets the new, stricter safety and emission requirements for India and can be adapted for future regulations. The cars planned as a part of the INDIA 2.0 project aims for a high localisation level of up to 95 per cent, with technical development taking place at the state-of-the-art Technology Centre at Pune, opened in January 2019.

Commenting about introducing the new model, Thomas Schäfer, CEO, SKODA AUTO, said "The KUSHAQ marks the start of a model offensive consisting of four new ŠKODA and Volkswagen mid-size models. All of these vehicles will be based on the MQB-A0-IN version of the Modular Transverse Matrix, which ŠKODA AUTO has specifically adapted to meet the needs of the Indian market. I'm very confident that this model will convince our Indian customers." (MT)

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Skoda has released a teaser video offering the first look inside its upcoming Vision O concept car, revealing a new interior design language. The car will be officially unveiled on 8th September in Munich.

The interior showcases the next evolution of the brand’s Modern Solid design philosophy, focusing on a customer-centric and sustainable approach. The design emphasises a spacious layout with clean lines for a harmonious feel.

Oliver Stefani, Head of Skoda Design, said, “The interior design concept of the Vision O showcases our commitment to combining simplicity and sustainability with enhanced comfort. The combination of clean lines and intuitive functionality reflect our efforts to create a harmonious and functional interior. It features materials and design elements that are not only aesthetically an evolution of our Modern Solid design language but also emphasise environmental responsibility.”

The interior features a minimalist, ergonomic design that prioritises practicality and intuitive functionality. It includes unique 3D-printed headrests for a comfortable and airy feel. Following circular economy principles, the materials used throughout the cabin are sustainable, with a focus on plant-based and compostable components to reduce the car’s environmental impact.

The Vision O will be a look at the future of Skoda’s estate segment.

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Renault India has released the new Kiger, an updated version of its sub-four-meter SUV at prices starting INR 629,000 with prices going upto INR 1.12 million (ex-showroom).

The SUV is an evolution of the previous model, features over 35 updates. It was developed to align with the ‘rethink performance’ philosophy.

The new Kiger has a refreshed exterior and an updated interior. It now includes a multi-view camera system, rain-sensing wipers and automatic headlamps. The Kiger is also equipped with a 20.32 cm touchscreen and a sound system.

The Kiger is available with two engine options: a 100 PS turbocharged engine and a 72 PS naturally aspirated engine. For safety, the new Kiger offers 21 standard safety features across all versions, including six airbags, ESP and Hill Start Assist.

Venkatram Mamillapalle, MD and CEO, Renault India, said, “We are excited to launch the New Kiger in a segment which is growing fastest and contributes 50% to the SUV sales and 31% to the TIV of the country. Kiger has been a unique product in its segment, and with this latest evolution, we are reaffirming our commitment to making expressive design, intelligent engineering, and real-world performance accessible to Indian customers. This marks a pivotal moment in Renault’s India centric transformation journey renault. rethink.”

Francisco Hidalgo, Vice-President, Sales and Marketing, Renault India, said, “Renault Kiger has shaped expectations in the compact SUV segment with its aesthetic design, modern details, and bold stance combined with the lightweight CMFA+ platform. The New Kiger remains highly agile and responsive, giving customers the confidence of SUV DNA with the ease of everyday driving on city roads and highways- ticking all that is required for perfect performance.” 

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Hyundai Motor India (HMIL), one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has introduced ‘PRO’ Pack in its popular compact SUV the Hyundai Exter at starting price of INR 798,390 (ex-showroom).

The new Pro pack features wheel arch cladding, side sill garnish, all-new Titan Grey Matte colour and a Dashcam to make the SUV more safer.

Tarun Garg, Whole-Time Director and Chief Operating Officer, Hyundai Motor India, said, "At HMIL, we are continuously evolving our product offerings to resonate with the aspirations of today's young and progressive customers. The introduction of PRO Pack in Hyundai EXTER is a step further in this direction, combining bold styling, advanced technology and strong safety to create a truly distinctive value proposition. With its refreshed appeal, the PRO Pack in Hyundai EXTER strengthens our commitment to redefining customer delight and making every drive a PRO experience."

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MOL, Suzuki Motor Corporation and TradeWaltz have announced a new partnership to streamline and decarbonise the automobile trade between India and Africa. The three companies signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) at the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) in Yokohama.

This collaboration aims to address current challenges in the trade by leveraging digital solutions and enhancing efficiency. The companies will focus on identifying problems in the supply chain and developing solutions for smoother transportation. A key part of the initiative is also promoting decarbonisation efforts within the logistics process.

The partnership aligns with the ‘Japan-India Cooperation Initiative for Sustainable Economic Development in Africa,’ launched in February 2025. By combining their individual strengths, MOL, Suzuki and TradeWaltz hope to contribute to the economic development of both India and Africa. The companies stated that this MU is the first step toward building a more robust and interconnected automobile supply chain between these two rapidly growing markets.

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