Cars & UVs
Mercedes-Benz hints at further price hike in September
Mercedes-Benz India will hike car prices again in September by 1.5%, citing the Euro’s sharp rise against the Rupee. This follows two earlier increases in January and June. Despite this, the company expects strong retail sales, helped by RBI’s rate cuts and lower EMIs. It is also expanding its luxury retail footprint with 30 boutique-style ‘Atelier Experience’ outlets in 2025.
Passenger vehicle sales stay flat in May; Utility vehicles drive growth: SIAM
In May 2025, Indian passenger vehicle sales saw a marginal 0.8% increase, driven by utility vehicles offsetting a car sales decline, SIAM data reveals. Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai benefited from UV demand, while Mahindra, Kia, and Toyota experienced robust growth. Two-wheeler sales remained subdued, though electric models gained traction.
Skoda to scale up pre-owned biz, bolster sales network to double sales this year
Skoda aims to double its Indian market volume this year, driven by its SUV portfolio and network expansion to 350 outlets. The company is also strengthening its pre-owned car business, targeting a threefold increase in sales, and considering entering the CNG segment to maintain market relevance. Skoda expects its market share to reach 2.5-3% by year-end.
Rare earth magnets: Maruti Suzuki explores multiple options to ensure operational continuity
Maruti Suzuki India is actively seeking solutions to maintain production amidst the rare earth magnet shortage, triggered by China's export restrictions. While operations remain unaffected for now, the company is closely monitoring the evolving situation. The Indian auto industry anticipates potential production issues, particularly for EVs, and is seeking government assistance to expedite import approvals from China.
All Maruti Suzuki cars to get 6 airbags by year-end
Maruti Suzuki announced it will standardize six airbags across all its passenger vehicles by year's end, expanding safety features. Currently, ten models already offer this feature as standard across all variants.
Maruti Suzuki Dzire becomes first sedan to get 5-star rating in BNCAP
Maruti Suzuki's All-New Dzire has achieved a 5-star rating in the Bharat NCAP, becoming the first sedan in India to do so, while the New Age Baleno scored 4 stars. Maruti Suzuki plans to equip all passenger vehicles with 6 airbags and Electronic Stability Program+ as standard features across all variants, enhancing safety across its entire range.
Maruti Suzuki recalibrates e VITARA production amid rare earth magnet shortage
Maruti Suzuki India is adjusting its e VITARA production plans due to a shortage of rare earth magnets, aiming for 8,000 units by September instead of the initially planned 26,000. The company intends to compensate for this dip in subsequent months, targeting 67,000 units this fiscal year.
Maruti’s Grand Vitara clocks 3 lakh sales in a record 32 months
Maruti Suzuki India's Grand Vitara has achieved a significant milestone, surpassing 3 lakh unit sales in just 32 months, establishing itself as the fastest-selling SUV in its segment. The surge in sales is largely attributed to the Strong Hybrid variants, witnessing a 43% year-on-year growth.
Hyundai Motors introduces new variants of Alcazar, check prices
Hyundai Motor India Limited has enhanced its Alcazar SUV, introducing a panoramic sunroof and DTC option. The Alcazar diesel Corporate variants start at Rs 17,86,700, while the Prestige DCT Petrol variant begins at Rs 18,63,700. These updates aim to provide customers with a more personalized and premium SUV experience, offering enhanced convenience and responsiveness.
1,008 car engines stolen! Former Kia India workers, scrap dealers face probe
An investigation is underway in India after two former Kia India employees allegedly colluded with scrap dealers to steal over 1,000 engines from the company's factory over three years. The theft, valued at $2.3 million, involved forged documents and a network extending to New Delhi. Authorities are concerned about the impact on industrial operations and potential interstate crime connections.
Maruti Suzuki says no immediate hit from China curbs on magnet exports
Maruti Suzuki has stated that its car production remains unaffected by China's export restrictions on rare earth magnets, crucial for both electric and gasoline vehicles. This announcement comes after Indian car and component manufacturers expressed concerns to Prime Minister Modi's officials about potential production halts due to these restrictions.
Mahindra introduces Dolby Atmos in Thar Roxx trim
Mahindra & Mahindra has partnered with Dolby Laboratories to introduce Dolby Atmos in the Mahindra Thar ROXX AX7L variant, marking a global SUV market first. This innovation integrates 4-channel immersive audio powered by Dolby Atmos into the vehicle's premium 9-speaker Harman Kardon system.
The new age of car shopping: How ACKO Drive is revolutionising the car buying journey
ACKO Drive is revolutionizing car buying in India by offering an all-in-one platform that provides transparency, competitive pricing, and complete customer support. Car enthusiasts can now access trustworthy reviews, real-time price comparisons, and assistance with financing and registration, all from the comfort of their homes.
Buying your dream car just got easier: A deep dive into ACKO Drive's transparent process
ACKO Drive is revolutionizing car buying in India by offering a transparent and hassle-free online platform. Backed by reputable investors, it eliminates hidden charges and ensures competitive pricing with fast delivery. Beyond purchase, ACKO Drive provides comprehensive services, including loans, old car sales, and servicing, making car ownership seamless and customer-centric.
Nissan India MD dispels exit rumours, outlines product and dealership expansion
Nissan has refuted claims of exiting the Indian market, affirming its commitment with plans to launch three new models by early 2027 and expand its dealership network by 20 outlets this year. The company aims to achieve sales of one lakh units each in the domestic and export markets this fiscal year.
Audi India partners with Neeraj Chopra
Audi India has announced a partnership with Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra, highlighting shared values of world-class performance and iconic status. The collaboration reflects Audi's commitment to those who relentlessly pursue excellence, mirroring Chopra's focus, speed, and unmatched performance. Chopra expressed excitement about representing a brand that inspires forward motion.
