Kia has launched updated versions of its Sonet, Seltos and Carens models with enhanced petrol powertrains that are now compatible with E20 fuel. The 2023 Carens is equipped with a new Smartstream G1.5 T-GDi turbo petrol engine that replaces the Smartstream G1.4 T-GDi engine. Meanwhile, the Sonet has had its 1.5L CRDi WGT diesel engine replaced with the 1.5L CRDi VGT engine, offering an enhanced power output of 116PS. Prices for the updated models range from INR7.79 lakh ($10,600) to INR19.65 lakh.
Category: Automobile
New 2023 Yamaha R25 Gets A New Colour
The 2023 Yamaha R25 has been updated with a new color that is similar to the one offered with the Yamaha R3 in 2022. There are no mechanical changes or revisions in terms of components and equipment. The base coat is a glossy Phantom Purple color with subtle pink elements on its side body panels and front fairing. The 249 cc parallel-twin motor remains the same, capable of 36 bhp of power and 22.6 Nm of torque. Yamaha’s YZF-R lineup in India is limited to just one single-cylinder 150cc offering, but there might be enough takers for a twin-cylinder screamer from Team Blue.
Honda Working on a New 300cc Adventure Motorcycle For India
Honda is reportedly developing a new adventure motorcycle for the Indian market, likely to be named the Honda CB300X and based on the CB300F streetfighter. It is expected to feature a big fairing, USD front forks, rear monoshock, disc brakes, and be positioned between the Suzuki V-Strom SX and the KTM 390 Adventure. The new motorcycle is likely to have longer travel suspension, larger front wheel, and wire-spoke rims, but it is unclear if it will have significant updates for tough terrains. The powertrain is expected to be the same as the CB300F, but the price will be slightly higher.
Maruti Suzuki to Release Fronx Crossover and Jimny SUV in Next 2 Months
Maruti Suzuki is launching two new SUVs, the Fronx crossover and the Jimny lifestyle SUV, which will be sold through NEXA dealerships and are available for bookings. The Fronx will arrive in April, while the Jimny will go on sale in May 2023. The Fronx will be offered with two petrol engines, while the Jimny is powered by a 1.5L petrol engine with Suzuki’s AllGrip Pro 4WD system. Both SUVs have received positive responses from buyers and can be booked online or at authorised dealerships.
Hyundai India Begins Testing for New Micro SUV
Hyundai is set to launch a micro SUV in India during the 2023 festive season. The mini SUV, codenamed Hyundai Ai3, is expected to measure around 3.8 meters in length and will share its platform with the Grand i10 Nios hatchback. The new Hyundai micro SUV is likely to have a touchscreen infotainment system, a semi-digital instrument cluster, and connected car technology. The engine setup might include a 1.2L petrol engine and transmission choices might include a manual and an automatic unit. The price range is expected to be between Rs 6 lakh – Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom).
Gogoro Electric Scooters Approved in India
Taiwanese EV battery swapping infrastructure provider, Gogoro, is set to launch its Gogoro 2 and Gogoro 2 Plus electric scooters in India, with the models having been approved in the country. While the specs of the Gogoro 2 models differ from those stated on the company’s India website, they have been approved and certified by the Central Institute of Road Transport. The Gogoro battery swapping infrastructure will be developed in India, with partnerships already signed in Maharashtra. The network will take time to develop, but will help to reduce range anxiety and lower acquisition costs for drivers.
Hero MotoCorp Sales Report for Feb 2023
Hero MotoCorp, India’s largest two-wheeler maker, reported positive YoY sales in domestic markets in February 2023, but a de-growth in exports. The Hero Splendor commanded the list in both domestic and export markets, with the new Hero Xoom entering the top 10 scooter sales. While sales of the Splendor grew almost 49% YoY, sales of the Hero HF Deluxe dipped 25.86%, the Hero Glamour posted a 68.94% drop in sales, and every model in the company lineup suffered de-growth on a YoY basis except for the Xpulse 200 and Pleasure. Shipments
New Maruti Brezza Gets a Black Edition
Maruti Suzuki has introduced a new Pearl Midnight Black colour scheme for its models sold via the Arena outlets, with the Maruti Brezza compact SUV being the first to receive this new colour scheme. The Black Edition is exclusively available in its top ZXi and ZXI+ trim, and is being offered at a similar price as that seen on its other colour options ranging from Rs 10.95-13.88 lakh (ex-showroom). The 2023 Brezza ZXi and ZXi+ have an all-black finished front grille, dual LED projector headlamps, floating LED DRLs, black cladding and side moulding while it rides on
New Hero Karizma 210cc Coming Soon
Hero MotoCorp is set to reintroduce the Karizma premium motorcycle brand in India this year with a new 210cc liquid-cooled engine that is expected to produce 25bhp of power and 30Nm of torque. The company has a new motorcycle platform ready to help it compete in the premium space. Details about dimensions, suspension setup and braking system will be revealed in the near future. The iconic Karizma brand had previously been phased out of the market after the last generation model failed to sell well.
Maruti Jimny Receives Over 23,500 Bookings, Fronx At 15,500
Maruti Suzuki unveiled the 5-door Jimny lifestyle SUV and the Fronx crossover at the 2023 Auto Expo and began taking bookings for them. The Jimny SUV received over 23,500 bookings, while the Fronx crossover received around 15,500 bookings. The Jimny SUV will be sold with a 1.5-litre K15B petrol engine and Suzuki’s AllGrip Pro 4WD system, while the Fronx crossover will be offered with two engine options and a range of safety and convenience features. Both SUVs will be sold through NEXA dealerships and will be available for sale in 2023.