BMW India has launched the new M340i xDrive that is produced locally at its plant in Chennai. It is the first high-performance automobile with an M Series engine to be made in India. Combining high-performance with attractive design and a rich features list, the ‘M’ car based on the 3-Series is priced at INR 6,920,000 ex-showroom. 

Powered by a 374 hp 2,998 cc straight-six petrol engine that does 500 Nm maximum torque and is mated to an 8-speed automatic ‘Steptronic’ transmission, the M3401 xDrive is fitted with an intelligent all-wheel drive system that monitors the driving situation and responds to ensure maximum traction, agility and vehicle stability. A part of the system is a M sport rear differential.  

The M sport suspension can lower the ride height by 10 mm to offer a more engaging driving experience whereas the variable sport steering ensures precise response. The M sport brakes (with blue coloured callipers having M logo) provide excellent braking performance and intuitive feel. The BMW ‘Performance Control System’ increases stability. 

The BMW ConnectedDrive technology makes the car an interconnected digital device with a host of ‘ConnectedDrive’ features like digital key plus, emergency call, real-time traffic information and remote services. These are operated via the ‘MyBMW’ app. The BMW Live Cockpit Plus includes the freestanding 14.9-inch BMW Curved Display with navigation, a 12.3-inch digital information display behind the steering wheel and BMW Head-up Display.

The latest BMW iDrive with ‘Operating System 8’, offers all the possibilities for interaction between occupants and the vehicle – using touch, gesture or speech. It is complemented by the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant which has a self-learning intelligence that adopts a driver’s individual habits, proactively provides useful tips on new driving functions and seamlessly integrates smartphone apps. Regular remote software upgrades ensure that the car is always up to date. Wireless smartphone integration opens access to a range of functions and apps. Smartphone holder integrated in the centre console allows inductive, wireless charging. 

The BMW Digital Key Plus turns a smartphone into a vehicle key enabling remote locking / unlocking and starting the car. The spread of driver assistance systems is more extensive than ever and includes parking assistant with rear view camera and a reversing assistant. 

BMW EfficientDynamics includes features such as auto start-stop, brake-energy regeneration, electronic power steering, 50:50 weight distribution and Eco Pro mode in ‘Driving Experience Control’. 

BMW Safety technologies include six airbags, attentiveness assistance, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with brake assist, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) that includes Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), electric parking brake with auto hold, side-impact protection, electronic vehicle immobiliser and crash sensors, run-flat tyres with tyre pressure indicator, Isofix child seat mounting and integrated emergency spare wheel. Fitted with a M Sport exhaust unit, the M340i xDrive is capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 kmph in 4.4 seconds, making it the quickest BMW to be produced in the country. 

Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “The BMW M340i xDrive is a sure-shot winner as it amplifies the thrill of sheer driving pleasure to a different level, thanks to the power of M which lies right at its heart. This captivating formula meets the cravings of auto enthusiasts who want a premium sedan for everyday use that doubles up as performance machine when desired. It is amongst the best-selling models of BMW Group India today. The new BMW M340i xDrive presents an even greater package full of M performance, unbeatable dynamics, space, comfort and a new innovative digital experience. This refreshed avatar will further consolidate the leading position of M340i and win over more brand fans and M enthusiasts.”

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Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, has reported its best-ever annual performance in FY2026 with wholesales of 641,587 units, up 15 percent YoY. This includes 631,387 units in the domestic market, up 14 percent, while exports came at 10,200 units, up 281 percent YoY.

For March 2026, the company’s sales came at 66,192 units, up 28 percent, while exports came at 779 units, up 204 percent YoY.

Interestingly, electric vehicles recorded its highest-ever quarterly sales of approximately 27,000 units, a 69 percent increase YoY. Annual EV volumes reached 92,120 units. On the other hand, sales of CNG vehicles crossed 170,000 units, up 24 percent YoY.

The Nexon and Punch models were the top-selling SUV models in the second half of the financial year. Recent launches, including the Sierra, a refreshed Punch and petrol variants of the Harrier and Safari, also saw continued customer traction.

The company expects the passenger vehicle industry to reach record annual volumes of approximately 4.7 million units, reflecting an 8 percent growth. Tata Motors emerged as the second-ranked player in the industry based on Vahan registrations during the second half of FY2026.

Shailesh Chandra, MD and CEO, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, said, “PV industry sales are expected to reach record volumes of around 4.7 million units for the year, reflecting 8 percent year on year (YoY) growth. The industry witnessed a strong rebound in the second half, posting double digit growth, supported by GST 2.0 implementation and a robust festive season. For Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, FY26 has been a landmark year marked by multiple milestones. We achieved our highest ever annual sales volumes of over 640,000 units, delivering industry beating growth of 15 percent YoY and ended it with strong positive momentum. Looking ahead, industry momentum is expected to sustain, led by growth in SUVs, CNG and EV. At the same time, the industry will need to closely monitor geopolitical developments to mitigate potential supply-side risks.”

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Honda Cars India (HCIL), a leading manufacturer of passenger vehicles, has recorded domestic sales of 7,585 units in March 2026, up 5 percent YoY, as compared to the 7,228 units sold last year. The company also reported exports of 2,451 units for the month.

The sales growth was supported by demand for the Amaze and Elevate models. Honda Cars India intends to expand its vehicle lineup in the upcoming financial year, with the launch of its first battery electric vehicle (BEV) scheduled for the second half of the year.

Kunal Behl, Vice-President, Marketing & Sales, Honda Cars India, said, “Demand for all Honda models specially Amaze and Elevate continues to be strong with exciting promotions and product offerings which helped us achieve 5 percent growth during Mar 2026. We are excited to enter the new fiscal with plans to expand our lineup, including the launch of our first BEV in the second half. We remain highly optimistic that our strong focus on customer satisfaction will continue to drive growth and sustain positive momentum.”

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Nissan Motor India (NMIPL), one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has recorded its best-ever monthly sale in March 2026, its highest in the last five years.

The company sold a total of 10,388 units in March 2026, which includes 4,408 units in the domestic market, while exports came at 5,980 units. This marks a 98 percent growth in domestic wholesales compared to February 2026.

The company attributed the smart uptick on the back of beginning of customer deliveries for the Nissan Gravite MPV, while the Nissan Magnite maintained its sales momentum. The expansion of its network presence also supported increasing customer traction.

The start of Gravite deliveries is identified as a milestone in the company’s growth phase in India. Nissan intends to sustain this trajectory by strengthening sales and service experiences and further expanding its network footprint across the country.

Saurabh Vatsa, Managing Director, Nissan Motor India, said, “March has been a defining month for Nissan in India, the strong growth in domestic sales reflects the positive customer response to our product portfolio. With the commencement of customer deliveries of the all-new Nissan GRAVITE, we would like to thank our customers for their love and appreciation for the Nissan Brand. The over-whelming response to the product reinforces our confidence in the opportunities ahead. Together with the continued momentum of the Nissan Magnite, the dedication of our Network Partners and support of Nissan Finance & other Banking partners, we remain focused on strengthening our Sales & Service experience, while further expanding our network footprint for sustaining long-term growth in the Indian market.”

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  - Bidyut Ghosh April 02, 2026 11:35 AM

  This is excellent move from Nissan India

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Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) reports 20 percent uptick in its wholesales for FY2026 with 406,081 units sold, as compared to 337,148 units last year.

The company recorded growth across both domestic and export markets during the financial year. Domestic sales rose by 19 percent to 367,107 units, while exports grew by 41 percent to 38,974 units.

In March 2026, Toyota Kirloskar Motor reported a 24 percent increase in total sales, with 37,194 units sold compared to 30,043 units a year ago.

The company attributes a robust demand for its product portfolio, which was supported by the introduction of the Land Cruiser 300, as well as new grades and special editions for the Innova Hycross, Fortuner, Camry Hybrid and Hilux. Technical updates included a new six-speed automatic transmission for the Urban Cruiser Hyryder AWD variant.

The company also standardised six airbags across the Rumion, Glanza, Urban Cruiser Taisor, and Urban Cruiser Hyryder models. The Innova Hycross achieved a five-star Bharat NCAP rating during this period.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor expanded its market reach through customer-centric initiatives and brand engagement activities, including the Toyota Experiential Museum (TEM) and a tour by brand ambassadors Drum Tao. These efforts were intended to increase reach among younger audiences and reinforce the brand's mobility positioning.

Sabari Manohar, Executive Vice-President, Sales-Service-Used Car Business, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “We delivered a positive performance this financial year, driven by sustained demand across our SUV, MPV and compact segments. The introduction of new products and customer centric initiatives during the year further helped position Toyota as a dynamic, technology driven and youth‑oriented brand. This momentum reflects the continued trust in Toyota’s quality, reliability and overall ownership experience. In a rapidly evolving market, such consistency underscores the strength of our fundamentals and positions us well for long‑term sustainable growth. We sincerely thank our customers, dealer partner, Government and other stakeholders for their trust & unwavering support. We remain focused on strengthening our product and technology offerings in line with our multi‑pathway approach of hybrid & electrified vehicle technologies in the mobility space. Looking ahead, we remain committed to creating long‑term value while continuously improving every touchpoint across the customer ownership journey.”

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