Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has launched the Fortuner and Legender in a new Neo Drive in a hybrid avatar, featuring a 48-volt system that delivers improved fuel efficiency. The models are priced at INR 4.47 million and INR 5.09 million, respectively.  

Since its debut in 2009, the Toyota Fortuner has defined the premium SUV segment in India, admired for its rugged design, robust performance and unmatched all-terrain capabilities. The stylish and feature-rich Legender complements the Fortuner, exemplifying Toyota’s core values of quality, durability and reliability. Together, they have cultivated a loyal following among urban adventurers and off-road enthusiasts alike.

The new Neo Drive variants introduce Toyota’s advanced 2.8-litre, four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine paired with a 48V system comprising a belt-integrated starter generator and lithium-ion battery. This technology mirrors hybrid electric systems by recuperating braking energy during deceleration, contributing to smoother low-end acceleration, quieter operation and improved fuel efficiency. The Smart Idle Start-Stop function further enhances efficiency by automatically shutting off the engine when stationary, resulting in lower emissions and fuel savings.

Importantly, the company claims that these enhancements do not compromise the Fortuner and Legender’s formidable payload capacity, durability or off-road performance. The Multi-Terrain Select system optimises throttle response, braking and traction control to deliver a superior driving experience across diverse terrains.

On the design front, the Fortuner retains its bold, purposeful stance, ideal for rugged adventures, while the Legender exudes a more dynamic and premium appeal with dual-tone body colours, split LED headlamps and a sleek fascia. Both models offer dual-tone leather upholstery, soft-touch materials and ergonomic seating designed for long-distance comfort.

In terms of safety the SUVs come with ABS, Vehicle Stability Control with Brake Assist, WIL Concept Seats, Hill Assist Control, Traction Control and more. Toyota’s focus on customer convenience extends to tailored finance solutions, including up to 8-year funding plans, Toyota Smart Balloon Finance and pre-approved value-added services such as extended warranty and genuine accessories. Buyers will also benefit from five years of complimentary roadside assistance and a standard 3-year/100,000 km warranty, extendable to 5 years/220,000 km, along with the customisable Toyota Smiles Plus service package.

Varinder Wadhwa, Vice President, Sales-Service-Used Car Business, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “As the SUV market in India grows steadily, customers are seeking advanced features and differentiated styling. The new Fortuner and Legender Neo Drive variants meet these expectations with bold design, powerful performance, and comprehensive features, underscoring Toyota’s commitment to delivering ever-better cars and advancing towards carbon neutrality.”

Bookings for the Fortuner and Legender Neo Drive variants commenced on 2 June 2025, with deliveries set to begin from the third week of June.

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Stellantis-owned French auto brand Citroen India has unveiled the C3 Limited Sport Edition, a new variant of its popular hatchback with a range of exclusive features.

The C3 Sport Edition distinguishes itself with bold 'Sport' decals, ambient cabin lighting and sporty pedals. The interior features custom sport-themed seat covers, matching carpet mats and seatbelt cushions to complement its athletic identity. Additionally, a new Garnet Red body colour has been introduced for the first time in the C3 lineup. Buyers also have the option to add a wireless charger and a dash cam.

Kumar Priyesh, Business Head & Director – Automotive Brands, Stellantis India, said, "The Citroen C3 has always stood out with its unique styling and plush ride quality fused with performance, making it a compelling choice in the hatchback segment. The C3 Sport Edition brings more energy, tech and thrill to a car already known for its bold design and ride quality. With the addition of Garnet Red and sporty enhancements, caters to a distinct generation of buyers who value individuality, class-leading performance, unmatched comfort and everyday practicality – reinforcing to Citroën’s promise of accessible innovation and design-led appeal."

Beyond its visual enhancements, the C3 Limited Sport Edition retains the C3's performance capabilities. It is powered by a 1.2L Turbo PureTech engine that delivers 110 PS and 205 Nm of torque, enabling a 0-100 kmph sprint in just 10 seconds. The vehicle also offers a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission.

The Citroen C3 Limited Sport Edition is now available at all Citroen dealerships across India. It carries a premium of INR 21,000 over the standard editions, with the optional Tech Kit (Dashcam and Wireless Charger) available for an additional INR 15,000.

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While new energy vehicles are gaining traction globally, GWM is making a case for the continued relevance of diesel – particularly in demanding off-road environments. At the recent GWM Thailand Diesel Day, the company highlighted advancements in diesel technology through its TANK 300 Diesel SUV, positioning it as a refined, high-performance option for drivers seeking torque, efficiency and durability.

The TANK 300 Diesel stands out with 480Nm of torque available from just 1,500rpm, a range of up to 1,200km and noise levels at idle as low as 65dB – comparable to petrol-powered vehicles. This balance of performance and comfort is achieved through GWM’s 2.4T diesel engine, paired with over 200 improvements in NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) control.

Fuel efficiency is another key focus. GWM’s use of advanced combustion techniques – including columnar combustion chambers and dual tangential air ducts – has brought consumption down to under 7.3L/100km. The company says this makes the vehicle well-suited for long-distance travel with reduced environmental impact.

GWM’s ‘All Scenarios, All Powertrains, All Users’ strategy reflects its commitment to offering multiple propulsion options tailored to local needs. In markets like Thailand, where off-road utility and long-range performance are critical, the TANK 300 Diesel showcases how modern diesel can remain a viable and competitive solution.

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Luca De Meo has announced his decision to step down as the CEO of Renault Group after spending five years at the helm of the auto major, and pursue interest outside the automotive industry.

Renault Group’s Board of Directors, convened by its Chairman Jean-Dominique Senard, have expressed their gratitude to Meo for the turnaround and transformation of the brand and accepted that his departure would be effective from 15 July 2025. Meo will continue to perform his duties until that date.

The Board of Directors has initiated the process of appointing a new Chief Executive Officer based on the already defined succession plan.

Jean-Dominique Senard, said, "For five years, Luca de Meo has worked to restore Renault Group to its rightful place. Under his leadership, our company has returned to a healthy foundation, boasts an impressive range of products and has resumed growth. Besides being an exceptional captain of industry, Luca de Meo is also a creative, committed, passionate and inspiring individual. Today, the entire company joins me in thanking him for all these years and all the collective challenges successfully met. On a personal level, I will always remember the quality of our relations during this unforgettable journey. This also gives me the opportunity to warmly thank the Group's employees who have worked alongside us for the recovery of this emblematic company that we are all so proud of.” 

Luca De Meo, added, "There comes a time in one’s life when one knows the job is done. At Renault Group, we have faced immense challenges in less than five years! We have achieved what many thought impossible. Today, the results speak for themselves: they are the best in our history. We have a strong team and an agile organisation. We also have a strategic plan ready for the next generation of products. That is why I have decided it is time for me to hand over the baton. I am leaving a transformed company, poised for the future, to apply my experience to other sectors and embark on new adventures. Leading Renault Group has been a privilege. It has been a human and industrial adventure that only happens once in a lifetime. For this, I will always be grateful to the women and men of this company - the ‘Renaulutionnaires’ - for their passion, their commitment and their conviction. They are the true driving engines. Moreover, I would like to thank Jean-Dominique Senard for choosing me several years ago, for his support and trust, as well as the Board of Directors, for believing in our projects. And the best is yet to come."

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Mercedes-Benz India has unveiled the ultra-exclusive AMG G 63 'Collector's Edition’, setting a new standard for bespoke luxury. Designed specifically for the Indian market in collaboration with Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India (MBRDI), this limited-run masterpiece pays homage to India's vibrant culture and will be restricted to just 30 individually curated units.

The edition introduces unprecedented personalisation, including a first-of-its-kind grab handle engraved with the owner's name – a unique feature never before offered on the AMG G 63. Further exclusivity comes from a spare wheel cover bearing a 'One of Thirty' plaque, along with exterior protective strips featuring Collector's Edition insignia.

Two striking India-exclusive MANUFAKTUR paint options – Mid Green Magno and Red Magno – enhance its bold presence. The cabin elevates luxury with Catalana Beige/Black two-tone Nappa leather upholstery, complemented by open-pore walnut wood trim. Completing the package are 22-inch Tech Gold cross-forged wheels that blend dynamic aesthetics with performance.

Scheduled for Q4 2025 deliveries, this edition merges AMG's legendary off-road capability with unmatched customisation. The launch also signals Mercedes-Benz India's commitment to expanding its MANUFAKTUR personalisation programme, with MBRDI enabling more localised innovations for discerning customers.

Santosh Iyer, Managing Director and CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, said, “Hyper-personalisation is an emerging trend in the top-end luxury segment, as customers increasingly demand customised vehicles, distinguished by rare craftsmanship, exclusivity of appointments and elements of personalisation. Meant for collectors and aficionados, a limited 30 units of the specially curated AMG G 63 ‘Collector’s Edition’ will cater to this growing trend of custom-made vehicles. The Collector’s Edition is inspired by the Indian landscape, honouring Indian customers’ love for the AMG G 63. This vehicle underscores the prowess of local innovation and value addition by the teams at Mercedes-Benz India and Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India. This special vehicle not only celebrates the success and the culture-shaping effect of the AMG G 63 in India but also complements the spirit of collaboration and co-creation with our talent at MBRDI. We will continue to offer such rare vehicles listening to our customers’ wishes and desires, as our top-end luxury products set new industry trends, remaining the most desirable vehicles in the market.”

Manu Saale, Managing Director and CEO, Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India (MBRDI), said, “At Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India, we are proud to have played a key role in shaping this India-inspired Collector’s Edition of the AMG G 63. With this edition, we aimed to go beyond performance and create a vehicle that resonates with India’s unique identity. Collaborating with Mercedes-Benz India, this is a strong testament of our capabilities in developing market-specific configurations that reflect customer-centricity and regional relevance. We remain committed to introducing more market-relevant solutions with both design and technology inputs.”

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