With the SUV market in India booming, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has introduced yet another SUV, albeit in a compact form called as the Urban Cruiser Taisor. 

Made at Maruti Suzuki manufacturing facility as part of the global cooperation framework between Toyota Motor Corporation and Suzuki Motor Corporation, the new compact SUV from TKM positions itself in a segment that is quite competitive and has the presence of not just the Maruti Fronx (its close cousin) but also the likes of Tata Punch.

Designed to be stylish with a bold Toyota grille that has (twin LED) daytime running lamps at either corner and head lamps that are arranged at either lower corner in a form of three-square lenses, the Urban Cruiser Taisor draws attention with its ‘higher up the ground’ stance as it rides on 16-inch diameter wheels. The machined alloy wheels look quite smart too. 

The sides are not very different than that of the Fronx to look at, particularly with that roofline which tapers down at the rear. The rear styling, much like that of front, is interesting. It also hints at clever packaging. 

Complementing its SUV stance are styling touches such as a front and rear skid plate, roof rails and body cladding on the wheel arches and doors. 

Available in two-tone colour shades as per the trim level, the Urban Cruiser Taisor could be had with a 90 PS 1.2-litre petrol engine mated to a five-speed manual transmission or a 100 PS 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine mated to a 5-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission. 

Besides the two petrol powertrains, the compact SUV with front-wheel drive configuration could be had with a 1.2-litre CNG unit as well. Coupled to this unit is a five-speed manual transmission. To note: The manual transmission of the vehicle features an ‘Intelligent Gear Shift’ (IGS) function.   

With deliveries scheduled from May 2024 (booking is already open) onwards, the compact SUV’s modern interior can seat five people. The dual tone dashboard with silver metal accents and premium seat fabric adds a nuance of exterior styling to the cabin. Also does the flat-bottom leather-wrapped steering wheel (with tilt and telescopic adjustment).  

While the driver’s seat is height adjustable, the rear bench seat is 60:40 split to provide better storage space at the rear. 

Featuring wireless charger, paddle shifters (on auto transmission variants), keyless entry, push-start/stop system, electrically adjustable (and foldable) ORVMs, steering wheel-mounted controls, power windows with anti-pinch function, fast USB charging points, a head-up display, 360-degree camera, nine-inch HD touchscreen infotainment system display, ‘ARKAMYS’ surround sound system with six speakers and wireless connectivity via Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, the Urban Cruiser Taisor is replete with the Toyota ‘iConnect’ system. 

The ’iConnect’ system provides a one stop intelligent solution for integrated and seamless experience in terms of remotely controlling functions such as climate control, lock/unlock, hazard lights and headlamps etc, and is fully compatible with smartwatches and Hey Siri voice assistant. 

Equipped with vehicle stability control, hill hold assist, roll over mitigation, six airbags (including side and curtain airbags), reverse parking sensors (with graphic display as well), ABS, EBD, an anti-theft security, Isofix points for child seats, over speed alert and door and lock status, the vehicle is priced upwards of INR 773,000 ex-showroom. 

Masakazu Yoshimura, MD and CEO, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, and Regional CEO, Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC), said, “The Indian market has always been of paramount importance to us, both in terms of product offerings and introduction of advanced technologies. This emphasis was further underpinned by the recent creation of a new region where the Indian market plays an even more crucial role acting as the hub of the new ‘India, Middle East, East Asia and Oceania Region’. At Toyota Kirloskar Motor, we believe that the company is strategically positioned to capitalise on its 25-years excellence legacy backed by an aspiration to establish new standards in the Indian automotive industry.”

“Looking ahead, our business strategy in the market will be to continue to focus on contributing to national priorities of localisation, developing a highly skilled workforce and achieving carbon goals. Furthermore, the customer first culture will continue to define our market strategy for years to come. With the newly introduced all-new Urban Cruiser Taisor, we are underlining our commitment to the customers by expanding choices to cater to their distinct needs thus delivering ‘Mass Happiness to All’,” he added. 

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Automotive major Stellantis has announced the formation of the Europe Supplier Advisory Council, a forum intended to increase collaboration between the carmaker and its supply chain. The council brings together senior Stellantis leadership and 26 supplier partners representing various automotive technologies and commodities.

The council will convene for three sessions during 2026, with each meeting lasting 1.5 days. The initiative includes participation from major European supplier associations, ANFIA and FIEV, to provide a collective voice for the regional supply base.

The Council's primary functions include:

• Operational Efficiency: Identifying bottlenecks and improvement opportunities across the value chain.
• Strategic Workstreams: Establishing joint Stellantis-supplier groups focused on production planning, cost competitiveness and operational excellence.
• Innovation Readiness: Accelerating the deployment of new technologies and ensuring launch readiness for future vehicle programmes.
• Regulatory Alignment: Addressing European Union regulatory requirements and geopolitical instability.

The council is designed to modernise supplier partnerships amid technological shifts and market volatility. By co-leading workstreams, Stellantis and its partners aim to align performance expectations and enhance the resilience of the European manufacturing and R&D platforms.

Emanuele Cappellano, COO, Stellantis Europe, said, “The launch of the Europe Supplier Advisory Council represents an important milestone in our journey to strengthen the region’s industrial performance. Today, more than ever, our success depends on deep collaboration with our supplier partners. By creating a shared forum where we openly discuss challenges and opportunities, we are building the foundation for faster execution, stronger competitiveness, and sustainable growth across Europe.”

Stephane Dubs, SVP of Purchasing and Supplier Quality for Stellantis Europe, added, “Our suppliers are essential contributors to Stellantis’ transformation. This new Council allows us to work side-by-side, with transparency and respect, to co-create solutions that benefit both sides. Together, we will address the critical issues shaping our industry—whether in quality, launch readiness, cost competitiveness, innovation, or supply chain resilience—and turn them into strategic advantages for our entire ecosystem.”

Jean-Louis Pech, President, FIEV, commented, “FIEV welcomes the opportunity to join Stellantis Supplier Advisory Council, which represents a valuable opportunity to strengthen our relationship and enrich the dialogue with suppliers. This participation will enable us to represent, with ANFIA, the collective voice of suppliers and actively contribute to the Council’s work.”

Marco Stella, President, ANFIA Components Group and Vice-President of ANFIA, stated, “Now more than ever, it is essential to invest in a fruitful partnership between Stellantis and the supply chain ecosystem, caught between European market weakness, geopolitical instability and fierceful competition, also to face united and together EU regulatory challenges and support EU manufacturing and R&D platforms.”

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Spinny, an Indian full-stack used car platform, has announced that it recorded a threefold increase in vehicle deliveries on Gudi Padwa compared to standard operating days. The surge indicates a trend of consumers aligning automotive purchases with festive milestones.

The festive period saw a 50 percent increase in footfall across Spinny Car Hubs in the days leading up to the holiday. Its data suggests that 86 percent of customers experienced a standard delivery process despite the heightened activity.

Regional demand was concentrated in western and southern India:

• Maharashtra: Pune and Mumbai recorded over six times their average daily delivery volumes, with each city serving more than 100 customers in a single day.
• Geographic Contribution: Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Karnataka collectively accounted for 70 percent of total deliveries on the day.

In terms of demand trends, Hyundai Motor India and Maruti Suzuki India were the most preferred auto brands, while Hyundai Grand i10 was the most purchased vehicle. White remained the most popular exterior colour across all markets. It saw 53 percent of buyers utilised credit solutions to fund their purchases, reflecting a shift towards structured ownership.

Hanish Yadav, Senior Vice-President, Spinny, said, “Gudi Padwa holds deep cultural significance as a time of renewal and new beginnings. We are witnessing more customers align their car-buying journeys with such meaningful occasions. The strong surge in deliveries and increased engagement across our hubs reflects both evolving consumer intent and the trust placed in Spinny. Our focus remains on ensuring a transparent, reliable, and high-quality experience - regardless of demand cycles.”

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Renault India has officially released the ARAI-certified fuel efficiency figures for the newly launched Duster, which is now powered by the Turbo TCe 160 engine. This latest iteration of the SUV delivers a fuel economy rating of 18.45 kmpl when paired with the DCT automatic gearbox, while the version equipped with the six-speed manual transmission achieves a rating of 17.75 kmpl.

Developed specifically to suit Indian driving conditions, the vehicle combines robust performance with what Renault describes as best-in-class ride and handling characteristics. At the heart of the Duster is a turbo-petrol unit that generates 163 PS of power along with 280 Nm of torque, securing its position as the most powerful engine in its category.

Through intelligent engineering and a carefully optimised powertrain, Renault has managed to create a compelling balance that merges high output with segment-leading fuel efficiency, ensuring drivers do not have to compromise between spirited performance and economical running.

Dr V Vikraman, Chief of Renault Engineering, Renault Group India, said, “The ARAI-certified figures highlight the strength of our technology and our commitment to delivering superior all-round value. New Renault Duster’s Turbo 160 engine integrates advanced solutions such as low-friction coatings and high-pressure fuel injection to optimise combustion and efficiency. Paired with Renault’s latest DCT automatic transmission, which ensures fast and seamless gear shifts, the powertrain delivers an excellent balance of performance and fuel efficiency while remaining strong and responsive on the road.”

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South Korean automotive major Hyundai Motor Company has named Bradley J. Arnold as Chief Designer and Head of Hyundai Design North America (HDNA) in Irvine, California.

He will oversee vehicle and concept design for the North American market, focusing on the company’s design-led strategy.

Arnold rejoined Hyundai in 2016 and has held various leadership roles within the California studio. Since 2021, he led the exterior design team, contributing to the 2023 Hyundai Palisade facelift and the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz. His previous experience includes:

• Hyundai (2008–2011): Contributions to the Hyundai Genesis Coupe exterior and Hyundai Curb Concept interior.
• General Motors Design (2011–2016): Work on the Cadillac Elmiraj Concept, Chevrolet Tru 140S, and mobility concepts.
• Academic: Graduate of and former instructor at the ArtCenter College of Design.

In 2025, Arnold served as interim design head at HDNA, where he managed the development of production and concept vehicles. He directed the global XRT off-road strategy within 'The Sandbox,' a design hub at the California studio.

Under his guidance, this facility has produced the 2026 Palisade XRT PRO, the CRATER Concept, and upcoming XRT models scheduled for production.

Luc Donckerwolke, Executive Vice-President and Chief Creative Officer, Hyundai Motor Group, said, “Design is the clearest expression of our ambition as a brand. Brad brings clarity, courage, and a strong connection to North American customers. His leadership will be instrumental as Hyundai Design North America shapes vehicles that are both emotionally engaging and globally relevant.”

SangYup Lee, Executive Vice-President and Head of Hyundai and Genesis Global Design, commented, “With more than 18 years of experience working with highly respected global automotive brands, Brad brings an exceptional level of creative leadership and vision. We are excited to have him lead Hyundai Design North America and build on the strong momentum of our vehicle design direction.”

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