Czech automaker Skoda Auto India, which completes its silver jubilee in India, has launched its all-new Kodiaq premium SUV at prices starting INR 4.68 million.

Powered by a 2.0 TSI engine, the Kodiaq produces 150kW and 320Nm of torque, which is distributed to both axles through a seven-speed dual-clutch DSG automatic. Based on the MQB37 platform, the Kodiaq SUV is available in the Sportline and Selection L&K in seven-seat configurations. The company shared that the SUV is being assembled in India at the brand’s facility in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar. The Kodiaq comes with a claimed fuel efficiency of 14.86 kmpl by ARAI.

The all-new Skoda Kodiaq grows 59mm longer than its predecessor, now measuring 4,758mm in length, 1,864mm in width and 1,679mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,791mm. Its ground clearance increases to 155mm when fully laden. It continues to retain its three-row layout yet manages to offer 281 litres of cargo space with all seats upright, 786 litres with the third row folded, and 1,976 litres with both rear rows stowed. Externally, the SUV boasts a bold redesign, featuring LED Beam Crystallinium headlamps with a Welcome Effect and a front grille integrated with a horizontal light strip.

A red strip connecting the tail lamps accentuates its width, and six exterior colour options are available, including Moon White and Velvet Red, with exclusive Bronx Gold for the L&K and Steel Grey for the Sportline.

On the inside, the Kodiaq elevates luxury with two distinct themes: a sporty all-black interior for the Sportline and premium Cognac leather upholstery for the L&K trim. A 32.77-cm infotainment system and Smart Dials with tactile controls streamline access to HVAC, audio and drive modes. Ergonomic upgrades include a steering wheel-mounted gear selector and a rear tablet holder. The Ergo front seats feature advanced pneumatic massage, while an acoustic package and noise-reducing windows ensure a tranquil cabin.

The Kodiaq is equipped with nine airbags, complemented by a sliding panoramic sunroof and a 725W Canton sound system with 13 speakers.

Skoda Auto India is also offering a standard warranty of five-year/125,000km (whichever earlier), along with a 10-year complimentary Road-Side Assistance on offer.

Petr Janeba, Brand Director, Skoda Auto India, said, “In March, we recorded our biggest ever monthly sales in India, driven by the Kylaq launch, and supported by the Kushaq and Slavia. This is one of many new records we aim to set this year. In line with our product offensive strategy, the launch of the all-new Kodiaq showcases the other end of our product spectrum with Škoda’s luxury and technology prowess. The Kodiaq has now grown to be an important legacy name for us like the Octavia and Superb. The Kodiaq offers the ultimate luxury and handling for city roads and also packs in versatile all-terrain capabilities.”

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Skoda Auto India, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has announced a strategic partnership with CSC (Common Services Centre) Grameen eStore to extend its sales network into India's semi-urban and rural markets.

Through this collaboration, Skoda's current portfolio – including the Kylaq, Kushaq and Slavia – will be accessible via the CSC digital-first platform. This move makes Skoda one of the few premium automotive brands to leverage the vast network of local Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs) to bridge the accessibility gap in non-metropolitan regions.

The partnership utilises a hybrid model that combines digital discovery with physical fulfilment. Customers in remote areas can explore and initiate inquiries for Skoda vehicles through the Grameen eStore platform. Local entrepreneurs at CSC centres will assist customers with product details and purchase journeys. Once a purchase is initiated via the CSC network, the final delivery and subsequent vehicle servicing will be handled by Skoda Auto India’s existing dealership infrastructure.

Ashish Gupta, Brand Director, Skoda Auto India, said, “At Skoda Auto India, our growth journey is anchored in improving accessibility and building relevance across newer markets. Our partnership with CSC Grameen eStore allows us to bridge access gaps by combining the strength of a trusted local network with our diverse product portfolio that democratises technology for Indian customers. This initiative will bring Skoda Auto closer to customers, enabling them to experience our products and services more conveniently, regardless of their location, creating a more inclusive and accessible mobility ecosystem.”

The CSC Grameen eStore has become a vital channel for automotive manufacturers looking to tap into India's ‘Bharat’ market. For Skoda, this partnership scales its reach significantly without the immediate need for capital-intensive physical showroom expansions in lower-tier cities, while still maintaining the premium service standards provided by its authorized dealers.

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Renault India has officially launched the updated 2026 Triber, introducing several segment-first comfort and convenience features aimed at strengthening its position in the compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) market.

The upgraded model priced between INR 580,875 and INR 800,350 (ex-showroom) focuses on making premium features more accessible across the variant lineup, specifically targeting family buyers who require modularity and enhanced cabin technology.

The 2026 Triber introduces features typically found in higher-segment vehicles to improve the ‘value-driven premium’ experience, which includes Automatic Climate Control in the top-end Emotion variant. New 2nd-row full-fold seats increase the total boot capacity to a segment-best 1,065 litres.  The standard one-touch tumble function remains for easy access to the third row.

It also gets a new dual-tone dashboard featuring a 20.32 cm (8-inch) floating touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The 2026 Triber is available in four distinct trims, with upgrades distributed across the mid and top-tier variants:

Mechanically, the Renault Triber continues to come with the 1.0-litre petrol engine delivering 72 PS and 96 Nm of torque, mated to either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed Easy-R AMT (available in the Emotion trim for INR 847,950).

In terms of safety, Renault has standardised 21 features across all variants, including 6 airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ABS with EBD and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Francisco Hidalgo Marques, Vice-President – Sales & Marketing, Renault India, said, "The Second-Generation Renault Triber has been celebrated as the ultimate family car in the segment, and with this thoughtful upgrade we’ve taken practicality and comfort to the next level. By introducing segment-first features like automatic air conditioning, full-fold second-row seats with best-in-class boot space, and the standard one-touch tumble function for easy third-row access, we are reaffirming our commitment to delivering unmatched value to our customers. We are confident that these enhancements will strengthen Triber’s position as the first choice for families across India."

To boost ownership confidence, the 2026 Triber comes with a 3-year standard warranty, which can be extended up to 7 years with unlimited kilometres under the Renault Secure programme.

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Renault Group UK has appointed Gary Pearson as Head of Sales for Renault and Dacia. The move strengthens the company’s commercial leadership at a time when both marques are gaining traction in the British market. Pearson brings over 25 years of industry experience, having worked for established global automakers as well as agile challenger brands.

His career began with a 16-year tenure at Audi, where he held senior roles in sales, marketing and network development. He later moved into global and start up environments, including positions at McLaren and INEOS Automotive. Most recently, Pearson held senior commercial posts at Andersen EV and Morgan Motor Company, focusing on growth, brand positioning and commercial performance. His work with retailer networks and international corporate operations has given him a broad perspective on the current automotive landscape.

A key early priority for Pearson will be collaborating with the sales operations team to build momentum and ensure strong internal alignment, supporting further growth for both brands. He joined Renault Group UK on 28 April and will be based at the company’s headquarters in Maple Cross.

Ben Fish, Sales & Network Operations Director, Renault Group UK, said, “Gary understands how to drive performance in complex environments, whether that’s within large OEM structures or newer, more agile businesses. That combination is particularly valuable as we continue to evolve our sales operations and strengthen how we support our retailers. His experience and approach make him a strong fit for the team, and I’m looking forward to seeing the impact he will have across Renault and Dacia’s portfolios.”

Pearson said, “The UK market is at a really interesting point, with rapid change in both customer expectations and the broader shift to electrification. Renault and Dacia are both well positioned, with clear identities and strong product line-ups across their car and LCV ranges that speak directly to those changes. I’m looking forward to working closely with the retailer network and the wider team to build on that momentum and ensure we continue to deliver for customers in a very competitive environment.”

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Japanese automotive luxury brand Lexus India has announced a standard 8-year/200,000 km warranty for all new vehicles sold from 1 April 2026.

This makes it the first luxury manufacturer in India to offer such extensive coverage. This enhancement significantly upgrades the brand's previous 8-year/160,000 km programme (introduced in 2024), specifically increasing the mileage cap to accommodate high-usage owners.

The initiative is rooted in the Japanese philosophy of Omotenashi – anticipating customer needs – and aims to bolster resale value while providing long-term security.

The updated policy is designed to be comprehensive and ‘guest-centric,’ requiring no additional premium from the buyer.

As per the company, all new Lexus models sold in India starting 1 April 2026 will now get 8 years or 200,000km (whichever comes first) warranty from the date of delivery. The warranty is part of a broader ‘Lexus Life’ ecosystem that includes tailored finance plans, insurance and 24x7 roadside assistance.

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