Category: Car News

BMW Group India has officially launched the M440i Convertible in the country at an introductory price of Rs 1.09 Crore (ex-showroom). The sporty drop-top undercuts its closest rival, the Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet, which is priced at Rs 1.16 Crore (ex-showroom).

Powerful B58 Engine With AWD Performance

The BMW M440i Convertible is powered by the familiar B58 3.0-litre inline 6-cylinder turbo petrol engine, the same unit seen in the M340i. It is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system, ensuring strong traction and performance.

This engine develops 374 bhp and 500 Nm of peak torque. BMW claims a 0-100 km/h sprint time of just 4.9 seconds, while the top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h. The car also benefits from a sporty exhaust setup along with additional bracing in the engine bay to improve structural rigidity.

Sporty Design With Signature BMW Styling

In terms of design, the M440i Convertible carries forward BMW’s bold styling language. It features the signature large vertical kidney grille, often referred to as ‘Beaver Teeth’, along with sleek LED headlamps that get blue accents.

The car follows a two-door layout, with access to the rear seats enabled by sliding the front seats forward. The front bumper gets functional air intakes, enhancing both aesthetics and performance.

It rides on 19-inch alloy wheels, with wider rubber at the rear for better grip. At the back, the car sports stylish LED tail lamps, M440i badging and a sporty bumper with dual exhaust outlets. Like most convertibles, the rear windshield appears relatively small.

Soft Top Roof With Quick Operation

BMW has opted for a fabric soft top instead of a hardtop, unlike the previous F33 generation. This change helps in reducing weight and improving overall efficiency.

The soft top can be opened or closed in just 18 seconds and can be operated at speeds of up to 50 km/h. Despite being a convertible, the car offers a practical 2+2 seating layout and also features rear quarter glass panels.

Feature-Rich And Sporty Cabin

Inside, the BMW M440i Convertible offers a minimal yet premium cabin layout with a clear focus on sportiness. It gets electrically adjustable front sport seats with memory function, borrowed from the M340i, along with a three-spoke steering wheel.

The dashboard is dominated by a curved display setup, which includes a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display. A large head-up display is also present, projecting key driving information directly into the driver’s line of sight.

Other features include automatic climate control, wireless charging, the latest iDrive system and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.

Maruti Suzuki appears to be gearing up for a mid-life update of the Brezza as fresh spy shots of a heavily camouflaged test mule continue to surface. The compact SUV, currently on sale since 2022 in its second-generation avatar, is due for a refresh considering the intensifying competition in the segment.

The latest sightings reveal a mix of subtle cosmetic revisions, feature enhancements, and expected carryover mechanicals.

Exterior Design To Get Minor Refresh

Despite the camouflage, it is evident that the overall silhouette of the Brezza facelift remains largely unchanged. The headlamp and tail lamp design appear similar to the current model, indicating that Maruti Suzuki is sticking to its familiar design language.

However, key updates are expected in the finer details:

• Revised front grille design
• Tweaked front and rear bumpers
• Newly designed alloy wheels

These changes should help the SUV maintain a fresh appeal without altering its core identity.

Bigger Infotainment Screen & Feature Updates

Spy images have also offered a glimpse inside the cabin, hinting at notable upgrades in terms of technology.

• Larger infotainment unit (likely 10.25-inch vs current 9-inch)
• Updated user interface
• Possible 360-degree camera system (visible via ORVM-mounted cameras)

While the current Brezza already offers a 360-degree camera in higher variants, the test mule suggests that Maruti could refine or expand this feature further in the facelift.

Powertrain Likely To Remain Unchanged

On the mechanical front, no major changes are expected — which is typical for a facelift.

The Brezza facelift is likely to continue with the existing 1.5L K15C petrol engine lineup:

• Naturally Aspirated: 99 bhp / 137 Nm
• CNG Variant: 87 bhp / 121 Nm
• Mild-Hybrid: 102 bhp / 139 Nm

Transmission options could see a slight update:

• Introduction of a revised 6-speed manual gearbox
• Improved gear ratios for better drivability
• CNG variant expected with underbody cylinder layout

What To Expect

The upcoming Brezza facelift is shaping up to be a feature-focused update rather than a radical overhaul. With a larger touchscreen, subtle styling tweaks, and possible transmission refinements, Maruti Suzuki aims to keep the Brezza competitive in the crowded sub-4m SUV space.

An official launch timeline is yet to be confirmed, but more details are expected to surface in the coming months.

Geely Auto has unveiled the 5th-generation Emgrand i-HEV at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show. The company claims the hybrid sedan achieved an impressive 2.22 L/100 km fuel consumption in a real-world highway test, a figure submitted for a Guinness World Record as the lowest among mass-produced hybrid cars.

Record Fuel Efficiency Claim

According to Geely, the 2.22 L/100 km figure was recorded during a highway loop test conducted in Hainan.

The company states this result is among the lowest globally for hybrids and claims it is over 12% more efficient than comparable results from the Toyota Prius, although exact testing conditions have not been detailed.

Dual-Motor Hybrid Setup

The Emgrand i-HEV features a P1+P3 dual-motor configuration combined with an integrated 11-in-1 electric drive system.

• Peak power output: 230 kW
• Claimed 1.72x higher output than typical Japanese hybrid systems

The dedicated hybrid engine delivers a thermal efficiency of 48.41%, which Geely claims is the highest among current mass-production engines.

Electric-First Driving Approach

Under WLTC conditions, the system operates in electric mode for more than 80% of the time.

• Engine usage reduced by over 27%
• Pure EV driving possible up to 66 km/h
• 0–30 km/h acceleration: 1.84 seconds
• System response time: 10 milliseconds

This setup is aimed at maximising efficiency while maintaining responsive performance.

NVH and Durability Focus

Geely has equipped the sedan with its in-house EOC active noise control system.

• Startup vibration reduced by 32.7%
• Cabin noise just 1 dB higher than a typical EV

Durability testing includes:

• 15,000 hours of bench testing (~4.8 million km equivalent)
• Operation across temperature differences of nearly 100°C
• Testing at altitudes up to 4,650 metres

To Be Expanded Across Lineup

Geely confirmed that the i-HEV system will be introduced across multiple models in 2026, including:

• Xingrui
• Xingyue L
• Boyue L
• Emgrand

Pre-sales for select models have already begun.

Entry-Level Segment With Advanced Hybrid Tech

The Emgrand continues to be positioned as an entry-level sedan, with pricing previously reported in the affordable bracket.

Bringing such high-efficiency hybrid technology to this segment could play a key role in improving fuel economy standards and lowering running costs for buyers.

Market Impact

While Emgrand sales have seen fluctuations in recent months, it continues to contribute steadily to Geely’s overall volumes.

With the new i-HEV system, the brand is aiming to strengthen its position by offering better efficiency and advanced hybrid technology in a cost-sensitive segment.

Source

Chery has unveiled the all-new Arrizo S sedan at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show, showcasing a sportier and more premium direction for its Arrizo lineup. Positioned above existing models, the Arrizo S targets the upper B-segment with a strong focus on performance and advanced tech.

The new sedan also hints at Chery’s renewed push in the combustion-powered sedan space, even as electrification gains momentum globally.

Positioned Above Arrizo 8

The Arrizo S sits higher than current offerings like the Arrizo 8, which already brought more powerful engines and updated transmissions to the lineup.

With this new concept, Chery is clearly aiming to strengthen its presence in the premium mid-size sedan segment, blending performance with modern features.

Sporty Design With Audi-Like Styling Cues

In terms of design, the Arrizo S adopts a sharp and aggressive stance:

• Large hexagonal front grille
• Sleek, narrow headlamps
• Fastback-style roofline
• Coupe-like side profile
• Full-width LED tail lamps
• Blacked-out elements and sporty alloy wheels

The overall styling gives it a premium European sedan-like appeal, with clear inspiration from brands like Audi.

2.0L Turbo Petrol With 192 kW Output

Under the hood, the Arrizo S gets a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine delivering:

• 192 kW of power
• 400 Nm of torque

These figures place it at the higher end of Chery’s ICE engine lineup, similar to top-spec versions of the Arrizo 8.

While transmission details are yet to be officially confirmed, the model is expected to feature Chery’s in-house developed 8-speed automatic gearbox.

Falcon ADAS With Advanced Driving Support

The Arrizo S comes equipped with Chery’s Falcon driver assistance system, designed to handle multiple driving scenarios such as:

• City driving
• Highway cruising
• Parking assistance

The system is backed by high computing hardware, aligning with Chery’s broader focus on intelligent driving and integrated vehicle control systems.

Part Of Larger Product Strategy

The Arrizo S was one of several new models showcased by Chery at the Beijing Auto Show, highlighting the brand’s expanding portfolio across both ICE and EV segments.

With this model, Chery is not only strengthening its sedan lineup but also targeting buyers who still prefer performance-oriented petrol sedans in a market increasingly shifting towards electrification.

Sedan Market Still Favors ICE Models

Despite the rise of EVs, China’s sedan market continues to see strong demand for petrol-powered models. Popular sedans like the Nissan Sylphy and Volkswagen Lavida still dominate sales charts, while EVs like the Tesla Model 3 are steadily gaining ground.

This trend underlines why models like the Arrizo S remain relevant, especially in the performance-focused sedan space.

Source

The rugged SUV segment in India is all set to witness fresh action in the coming months, with two very different offerings lined up for launch. The Mahindra Scorpio-N facelift will continue to build on its strong legacy, while JSW Motors will step into the market with the all-new Jetour T2 plug-in hybrid SUV. Both models are expected to arrive before the end of 2026, bringing a mix of traditional toughness and modern technology.

Mahindra Scorpio-N Facelift Expected Around August 2026

The updated Scorpio-N is likely to go on sale around August 2026, and the biggest changes will be seen inside the cabin. While the ladder-frame chassis and rugged 4×4 capabilities will remain untouched, Mahindra is preparing a major feature upgrade to keep the SUV competitive.

One of the key highlights will be the introduction of a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, replacing the current single-pane unit in higher variants, although lower trims are expected to continue with the existing setup. Spy shots have also confirmed the addition of a 360-degree camera system, with cameras positioned on the ORVMs and front grille. The SUV could further benefit from a blind-view monitor, improving visibility during lane changes.

Inside, the dashboard layout is expected to be revised with a more premium and tech-focused approach. The facelifted model will likely feature a larger 10.25-inch floating touchscreen infotainment system along with a fully digital 10.25-inch instrument cluster capable of displaying navigation and ADAS-related information. The equipment list could also expand to include ventilated front seats, an electrically adjustable driver’s seat and an upgraded Harman Kardon audio system with Dolby Atmos support.

Despite these updates, the mechanical package will remain unchanged. The Scorpio-N will continue with its 2.0-litre turbo petrol and 2.2-litre turbo diesel engines, paired with both manual and automatic gearbox options. The 4×4 system will also be retained in higher variants, ensuring its off-road credentials stay intact.

Jetour T2 PHEV Launch Likely By Diwali 2026

JSW Motors is preparing to enter the Indian automotive market with the Jetour T2, which is expected to be launched around Diwali 2026. Unlike conventional rugged SUVs, this model brings a strong focus on electrification along with a bold design language.

The Jetour T2 features a boxy, upright stance reminiscent of the Land Rover Defender, giving it a commanding road presence. However, the real highlight lies under the hood, where it adopts an advanced plug-in hybrid powertrain instead of the usual diesel setup seen in this segment.

The SUV is powered by a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine paired with a sizeable 26.7 kWh battery pack. In its dual-motor all-wheel-drive configuration, the system delivers a combined output of 381 hp and 610 Nm. It comes mated to a 3-speed DHT gearbox and is claimed to offer an electric-only driving range of up to 139 km under NEDC standards, along with a total range exceeding 1000 km.

In terms of off-road capability, the Jetour T2 uses BorgWarner’s XWD intelligent system, which can automatically adapt across multiple driving conditions. It rides on a monocoque platform but still manages to offer 220 mm of ground clearance, balancing comfort with capability.

The cabin is expected to be loaded with technology, featuring a large 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system powered by a Snapdragon 8155 processor. It will also come equipped with a 12-speaker Sony audio system with active noise cancellation, along with ventilated and heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof and a Level 2 ADAS suite.

Conclusion

With the Scorpio-N facelift focusing on enhancing comfort and in-cabin technology, and the Jetour T2 introducing a high-performance hybrid setup, the rugged SUV segment in India is set to evolve rapidly. Buyers will soon have the option to choose between a proven body-on-frame SUV and a modern electrified alternative, making the competition far more diverse than before.

Volkswagen Group has unveiled the Jetta X electric SUV concept in China ahead of the Beijing Auto Show, marking the brand’s entry into the affordable EV segment. The concept previews Jetta’s upcoming new energy vehicle (NEV) lineup aimed at budget-conscious buyers.

Jetta Brand To Expand With EVs

Unlike the global-spec Jetta sedan, Jetta in China operates as a separate entry-level brand under FAW-Volkswagen. Since its inception in 2019, it has focused on low-cost ICE models. Now, the brand is preparing for a transition towards electrification.

• 5 new models planned by 2028
• 4 to be NEVs (EVs + PHEVs)
• 1 will continue with ICE powertrain
• First NEV launch scheduled for later in 2026

Jetta X Concept – Design Highlights

The Jetta X concept is a pure electric SUV featuring a rugged and modern design language:

• Boxy silhouette with upright stance
• Pronounced wheel arches with black cladding
• Slim LED DRLs and tail lamps
• Skid plate-like elements with red tow hooks

Interior design is minimalistic, featuring large digital displays and reduced physical controls, in line with current EV trends.

No Specs Revealed Yet

Volkswagen has not disclosed any technical specifications of the concept. Key details like:

• Battery capacity
• Driving range
• Power output
• Dimensions

are yet to be revealed.

Affordable Pricing Strategy

Jetta is targeting the 100,000 yuan (~₹12 lakh / $15,000) price bracket, which is a highly competitive entry-level EV segment in China. While pricing of the X concept is not confirmed, it clearly indicates the direction for upcoming production models.

Volkswagen Sales Decline In China

Volkswagen continues to face pressure in China, especially with slowing ICE demand and underperforming EV sales.

• March 2026 sales: 125,433 units
• YoY decline: -22.1%
• 9th consecutive month of YoY decline

Jetta brand sales also dropped:

• March 2026: 9,001 units
• YoY decline: -10%

Shift Towards Localised Strategy

Volkswagen is increasingly focusing on localised development and separate brand strategies to better compete with Chinese EV manufacturers in lower price segments.

The Jetta X concept underlines this shift, and with the first NEV launch due this year, a production-ready version could debut soon.

More details are expected closer to production version reveal. Stay tuned.

JSW MG Motor India has confirmed that the prices of its upcoming flagship SUV, the MG Majestor, will be announced on April 27, 2026. The new model will replace the Gloster as the brand’s top combustion-powered SUV in the country and will be offered in two trims – Sharp and Savvy.

The Majestor is expected to be priced between Rs 40 lakh and Rs 45 lakh (ex-showroom), putting it in direct competition with the likes of the Toyota Fortuner, Jeep Meridian and Skoda Kodiaq.

2.0L Twin-Turbo Diesel With 4WD Setup

Powering the MG Majestor is a 2.0-litre twin-turbo diesel engine sourced from the Gloster. This motor develops 215 hp and 478.5 Nm of peak torque and comes paired with an 8-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox. The SUV also features a four-wheel-drive system with low-range capability.

Additionally, it gets three locking differentials and multiple terrain modes including Snow, Rock, Sand, Mud and Normal, enhancing its off-road capability.

Bold Design With Premium Road Presence

In terms of design, the MG Majestor carries a boxy silhouette with a strong road presence. The front fascia is dominated by a large grille with gloss-black elements, vertically stacked LED headlamps and sleek DRLs. The rugged bumper with silver skid plate further enhances its SUV appeal.

The side profile gets pronounced cladding, 19-inch dual-tone alloy wheels and side steps, while the rear features connected LED tail-lamps with ‘Morris Garages’ lettering and dual exhaust outlets.

Feature-Rich Cabin With 6 & 7-Seat Options

Inside, the Majestor comes with a premium black-themed cabin accented by silver trims. It features dual 12.4-inch screens for infotainment and instrumentation along with a three-spoke steering wheel.

The SUV will be available in both 6- and 7-seat configurations and comes loaded with features such as a panoramic sunroof, 3-zone climate control, 12-speaker JBL audio system, powered tailgate and dual wireless chargers. It also offers ventilated and massage front seats, powered seat adjustments and 64-colour ambient lighting.

Safety And Tech Fully Loaded

On the safety front, the MG Majestor comes equipped with six airbags as standard, Level 2 ADAS, a 360-degree camera, hill hold and descent control, TPMS and an electronic parking brake, making it one of the most feature-packed offerings in its segment.

Chinese automaker FAW’s premium brand Hongqi has introduced updated versions of its Tiangong 05 sedan and Tiangong 06 SUV with an advanced 800V electrical architecture. The new models bring ultra-fast charging capabilities to a more accessible price bracket, starting at 171,800 yuan (approx. $23,900).

800V Architecture Brings Ultra-Fast Charging To Mass Segment

One of the biggest highlights is the adoption of an 800V high-voltage system in both models. This allows the battery to charge from 10% to 80% in just 12 minutes, putting these EVs among the fastest-charging vehicles in their segment.

What makes this significant is the pricing — both models sit below the 200,000 yuan mark, a segment that is now witnessing aggressive competition in China’s EV market.

Range & Practicality: Over 600 KM On A Single Charge

The Tiangong twins also deliver impressive driving range figures:

• Tiangong 05 (Sedan): Up to 650 km (CLTC)
• Tiangong 06 (SUV): Up to 610 km (CLTC)

Additionally, both EVs support 6 kW external discharge, allowing users to power external devices — a useful feature for camping or emergency situations.

Design & Feature Updates

The update isn’t limited to hardware alone. Hongqi has introduced a new “Yunmeng Silver” paint option, taking the total colour choices to seven.

• Tiangong 05: Continues with a sleek fastback design, boasting a drag coefficient of 0.213 Cd
• Tiangong 06: Retains its midsize SUV stance with a closed grille and flush door handles

Inside the cabin, both models get:

• 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• AI-based voice interaction
• Multi-zone voice recognition

The Tiangong 06 goes a step further with:

• 14-speaker Dynaudio sound system
• AR-based head-up display (HUD)
• Advanced driver assistance with highway + urban assist

Hongqi’s Bigger EV Strategy

The introduction of 800V architecture aligns with Hongqi’s long-term electrification roadmap. The brand is reportedly working on next-generation battery tech, including solid-state batteries, which are expected to enter production around 2027.

At the same time, Hongqi is expanding its EV portfolio, with an extended-range off-road SUV (codenamed P567) set to debut at the Beijing Auto Show 2026.

Industry Context: Fast Charging Becoming The New Normal

China’s EV space has rapidly shifted towards 800V systems over the past year, with multiple brands pushing ultra-fast charging as a key differentiator. Hongqi’s move ensures the Tiangong series stays competitive as charging speed becomes as critical as driving range.

Sales Snapshot

Despite the product push, Hongqi’s recent sales show mixed trends:

• March 2026: 24,594 units (+29.4% MoM, -25.4% YoY)
• February 2026: 19,003 units (-29.6% YoY)
• January 2026: 31,638 units (-22.3% YoY)

While monthly recovery is visible, year-on-year pressure remains, making new product upgrades like these crucial for momentum.

Key Takeaways

• 800V architecture now entering sub-$30,000 segment
• 10–80% charge in just 12 minutes
• Up to 650 km range
• Feature-rich cabins with AI tech
• Strong focus on future battery innovation

Hongqi’s latest update clearly signals where the EV market is headed — faster charging, longer range, and more tech at lower price points.