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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Auto Hangar, a Mercedes-Benz India retail partner, has expanded its network in Mumbai with the opening of a showroom in Kandivali and a service centre in Charkop. The expansion targets the western corridor of the city, including Borivali, Malad and Andheri.

The Kandivali showroom follows the Mercedes-Benz ‘MAR 2020’ global retail design framework. The facility integrates digital tools with physical displays to facilitate vehicle customisation.

Key features of the showroom include:

• Digital Car Configurator: Allows customers to select paint finishes, alloy designs, and interior trims virtually.
• Model Range: On-site display of vehicles including the GLC, A-Class Limousine, and the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class.
• Finance Integration: Access to STAR Agility+ programmes for vehicle financing.

The Charkop facility provides maintenance and repair services using Mercedes-Benz diagnostic systems. The centre is designed to meet the manufacturer's ‘Ambition 2039’ sustainability targets.

The service centre includes:

• Quick-Service Bays: Staffed by certified technicians for routine maintenance and electronic calibrations.
• Logistics: Pick-up and drop-off services for residents in the surrounding suburbs.
• Environmental Systems: Integration of solar-powered systems, waste segregation, and water recycling technologies.

“This expansion is about more than new locations, it’s about redefining the Mercedes-Benz experience for Mumbai’s west. With state-of-the-art infrastructure, sustainable practices and a customer-first approach, we are ready to serve a new generation of luxury car buyers,” said the company in a statement.

The company maintains an existing network across Mumbai, with locations in Hughes Road, Prabhadevi, Lokhandwala Circle, Lower Parel and Sakivihar.

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Honda Motor Co, is set to showcase a series of concept models and racing machines at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2026, scheduled for 9–11 January at Makuhari Messe in Chiba.

Under the theme of ‘Honda Sports DNA’, the company will demonstrate the transfer of technology from motorsports into production vehicle development and manufacturing.

The display will feature three world premieres developed in collaboration with Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) and Honda’s engineering teams:

Civic Type R HRC Concept: A concept based on the current Civic Type R. Developed by HRC, the vehicle incorporates racing expertise to refine the performance of the sports model.

Prelude HRC Concept: A customised version of the new Prelude, which launched in September 2025. The model features HRC-designed components intended to adjust driving dynamics.

Civic e:HEV RS Prototype: A prototype of a new trim for the hybrid Civic. This model will be the second vehicle, following the Prelude, to feature Honda S+ Shift control technology.

According to the company, the booth design and choice of vehicles represent ‘Honda Sports DNA,’ which expresses how Honda technology and passion to pursue driving performance – with motorsports as its ultimate proving ground – have been carried forward uninterrupted throughout all Honda activities, from racing to automobile development and manufacturing.

The use of red as the theme colour for the booth is intended to signal the OEM’s focus on performance and automobile engineering.

The exhibition will include additional racing machines from Honda’s global motorsports programmes, highlighting the connection between track testing and commercial vehicle production.

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Citroen India, in partnership with its dealership La Maison Nanavati, has completed the handover of 51 Citroen C3 CNG vehicles to the Luthra Group. The ceremony took place at the Luthra Group’s headquarters in Surat.

The delivery is part of Citroen's strategy to expand its presence in tier-II and tier-III markets by providing mobility solutions to businesses and individuals.

The Citroen C3 CNG is designed for high-usage environments and daily commutes. The model includes several features tailored for the Indian market, integration of a factory-fitted CNG kit to manage running costs. A suspension system tuned specifically for local road conditions. Provisions for cabin space and air-conditioning systems designed for high-ambient temperatures.

The handover to Luthra Group represents the brand's focus on cost-efficient transportation. By targeting the regional business sector, Citroen India aims to strengthen its footprint in Gujarat and the broader Indian mobility market.

The C3 CNG is positioned as a solution for users requiring reliability and low operating expenses without compromising on ride comfort.

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Maruti Suzuki India has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Uttar Pradesh Gramin Bank, a regional rural bank, for vehicle retail financing partnership on new cars, pre-owned vehicles and commercial vehicles.

This collaboration marks the 50th retail finance partner for Maruti Suzuki India. The partnership is intended to use the bank’s network to provide credit options to a range of customer profiles, particularly in rural and semi-urban regions.

The partnership aims to increase the accessibility of Maruti Suzuki products through, tailored finance schemes designed for rural and regional customers.

Partho Banerjee, Senior Executive Officer, Marketing & Sales, Maruti Suzuki India, said, “Our partnership with Uttar Pradesh Gramin Bank marks a significant milestone as we onboard our 50th retail finance partner. This reinforces our commitment to making car ownership simpler and more affordable for customers across India. By expanding our reach through this strategic alliance, we aim to empower buyers with competitive, customer-friendly financing solutions that enhance the overall purchase experience. We remain focused on delivering seamless, tailored finance options, and this collaboration strengthens our vision of providing the Joy of Mobility to aspiring Indian consumers.”

Yadav S. Thakur, Chairman, Uttar Pradesh Gramin Bank, said, “At Uttar Pradesh Gramin Bank, empowering customer aspirations is at the heart of everything we do. Our partnership with Maruti Suzuki, a leader in the automotive industry, is a strategic step towards enhancing our service offerings and delivering greater value to our customers. This collaboration aligns with our 'Customer-First' mission, enabling us to provide accessible and affordable vehicle financing solutions. We look forward to helping more individuals and families across the country realise their dream of owning a Maruti Suzuki vehicle.”

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