BMW India launched its all-new BMW X5 M Competition, a powerful Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV)I, in India.

The ex-showroom price of the all-new BMW X5 M Competition is INR 1,94,90,000 and is now available across BMW dealerships in the country as a completely built-up unit (CBU).

The new BMW vehicle is available in metallic colours - Carbon Black, Black Sapphire, Mineral White, Marina Bay Blue, Donnington Grey, Manhattan Green and Tornado Red. Optionally, BMW Individual colours are available in Tanzanite Blue and Ametrine.

The standard upholstery is in Black Extended Merino Leather interior as standard. Available optionally on the Full Merino Leather interiors in a choice of Silverstone, Sakhir Orange/Black, Adelaide Grey, Taruma Brown, Black or Ivory White/Night Blue with colour matched Alcantara headliner.

Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “BMW M is driven by a single-minded passion for creating authentic motorsport functionality with everyday usability. The all-new BMW X5 M Competition inherits this DNA and heralds a new dimension in Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) segment. It is a sublime mix of exclusive ‘M’ elements, an imposing thirst for forward progress, supreme power, captivating presence and ultra-modern interior that epitomizes luxury. The powerful V8 engine and an array of comfort and safety features promise a unique, sporty and exclusive driving experience. The all-new BMW X5 M Competition fulfills the highest customer expectations, not only for agility, dynamics and power but also the expression of individuality.”

The standard upholstery is in Black Extended Merino Leather interior as standard. Available optionally on the Full Merino Leather interiors in a choice of Silverstone, Sakhir Orange/Black, Adelaide Grey, Taruma Brown, Black or Ivory White/Night Blue with colour-matched Alcantara headliner.

The all-new BMW X5 M Competition has an immediately recognizable large front bumper air intake openings to feed additional air to the coolers. It features both a roof and lower tailgate spoiler as part of their aerodynamic enhancements. It comes with exclusive ‘M’ light-alloy wheels in 21-inch format at the front axle and 22-inch at the rear with star-spoke style 809 ‘M’ Bi-colour.

The interior cockpit is classy, contemporary style of the cabin is complemented by displays and controls with the familiar M treatment. The integrated head rests on the M multifunction seats offer electric adjustments, head restraint height, thigh support, backrest and angle plus pneumatic lumbar support. Hands-free Comfort Access facilitates easy loading and unloading of luggage. The all-new BMW X5 M Competition features a 12.3-inch Multifunction Display touchscreen, iDrive Touch Controller, multifunction steering wheel’s buttons, the voice control feature along-with the optional BMW Gesture Control. The BMW Live Cockpit Professional with navigation system and the BMW Virtual Assistant is offered as standard. It also gets wireless charging and Harman Kardon Surround Sound System. Interior ambience can be enhanced further by opting for Panorama Glass Roof Sky Lounge, Acoustic glazing and Ambient Air Package. The optionally available Rear Seat Entertainment Professional and Bowers and Wilkins Diamond surround sound system produce a superior entertainment experience. High-quality options from BMW Individual create a bespoke character with exclusive paintwork and interior trims.

The latest-generation V8 engine stands out with its high revving character and unmistakable performance of the M TwinPower Turbo technology with racetrack-proven cooling system. With a maximum output of 460 kW/600 hp at 6,000 rpm and a peak torque of 750 Nm between 1,800 – 5,600 rpm, the all-new BMW X5 M Competition sprints from 0-100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds and achieve a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited).

The high-performance engine teams up with the latest version of the 8-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission. The transmission adjusts from smooth to aggressive with the three-stage Drivelogic shifting system. The steering wheel paddle shifters, cruise control with braking function as standard and launch control function offers even greater driving pleasure. The M xDrive all-wheel-drive system and Active M Differential ensure extremely dynamic on-road performance and masterful off-road ability.

The M-specific chassis always ensures precise handling. The M-specific adaptive suspension with electronically controlled dampers, active roll stabilization system and M Servotronic steering support sporty driving along with high comfort levels on long journeys. ‘M’ compound brakes offer outstanding stopping power. The integrated braking system developed for BMW M models offers two settings for brake pedal feel – COMFORT and SPORT.

The M Mode button on the center console features a TRACK mode in addition to ROAD and SPORT mode settings, which is exclusively designed for use on race circuits. In SPORT / TRACK mode, the amount of information appearing in the displays is reduced offering a focused, high-performance experience.

The vehicle is loaded with cutting edge BMW Safety technologies such as front, side and head airbags, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including ‘M’ Dynamic Mode, Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Brake Control, Dry Braking function, Cruise Control with braking function along with Collision and Pedestrian Warning with City Braking function. As a part of standard package, Adaptive LED headlights, High Beam Assistant and Parking Assistant with Reversing Assistant. M-specific display content can also be shown on BMW Head-Up Display, projecting driving information onto the windscreen and right into the driver’s immediate field of vision. Comfort and safety can be enhanced by opting to Driving Assistant Professional package that provides Steering and lane control assistant, the Lane Keeping Assistant with active side collision protection, the Lane Change Assistant, the Evasion Assistant, the Emergency Stop Assistant and the Crossroads warning, Wrong-way warning and Front Cross Traffic Alert systems. (MT)

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French automotive major Renault Group has launched futuREady India, a strategic initiative designed to integrate its Indian operations into the company's global value chain.

The plan aims to establish India as one of the brand’s top three markets by 2030 through a product offensive and the expansion of its manufacturing and engineering capabilities. Renault intends to generate EUR 2 billion in annual exports from India by 2030, covering vehicles, components and R&D services.

The group will expand its Indian portfolio to 7 models by 2030, focusing on high-value segments and multi-energy powertrains. These vehicles will be built on two shared platforms, RGEP (Renault Group Entry Platform) and RGMP (Renault Group Modular Platform), which support internal combustion, hybrid and electric configurations.

Following the recent introduction of the Duster SUV, Renault has previewed the Bridger Concept, a compact SUV that will include a fully electric variant. To support customer retention, the company has introduced the Renault Forever initiative, which includes a 7-year warranty.

Renault has also moved to full ownership of its manufacturing facility in Chennai to improve supplier integration and supply chain optimisation. This site, alongside an engineering centre employing 6,000 specialists, will transition into a global centre of excellence. The Chennai operations will now develop architectures and software for both the domestic Indian market and international projects, specifically supporting Renault’s requirements in regions such as South America.

Francois Provost, CEO, Renault Group, said, “With futuREady, our new Vision, Renault Group is accelerating its international growth by building on high-potential, fast-growing markets where the Group already has a strong presence. India, where we have been established for fifteen years, is a prime example: it represents more than one-third of the growth potential across the markets where the Renault brand already operates. India is set to become not only a growth market, but also a centre of excellence and an export hub. Thanks to the commitment and expertise of our local teams, it will strengthen the Group’s overall competitiveness. Thirty years ago, Renault Group began its first wave of international expansion. With futuREady, we are opening a new era in our global growth story – and India will be at the heart of it!”

Stephane Deblaise, CEO, Renault Group in India, said, “By 2030, we will offer a seven-model portfolio in India, spanning key segments from compact cars to larger SUVs, and featuring a full spectrum of electrified powertrains—from strong hybrids to fully electric vehicles. Leveraging world-class engineering, competitive manufacturing, and a clear, ambitious product roadmap, India is poised to be a major driver of sustained value for Renault Group.”

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McLaren Automotive has appointed Kemal Curic as Chief Design Officer with effect from April 2026. As a new member of the Executive Leadership Team, Curic will guide the overall design vision and creative strategy for the entire McLaren Automotive range. His appointment marks a significant step in strengthening the brand’s future direction.

Bringing over 20 years of international automotive design expertise, Curic has worked extensively on both high performance and luxury vehicles. He joins McLaren following a tenure at Ford Motor Company, where he served as Global Design Director for Performance Vehicles and was responsible for some of the industry’s most celebrated performance car designs. His career reflects a consistent ability to honour a brand’s heritage while pushing design boundaries.

In his new position at McLaren, Curic will oversee all design disciplines, including interiors, exteriors, colour and materials as well as digital design. He will collaborate closely with engineering and product strategy teams to ensure McLaren continues to set benchmarks in lightweight construction, high performance and emotionally compelling luxury vehicles. Known for successfully evolving iconic cars without losing their essence, Curic’s grasp of performance DNA and his talent for blending innovation with brand authenticity make him an exceptional fit for the company.

Curic said, “McLaren is one of the most respected and aspirational brands in the world. I’m excited to be part of their journey to help shape the design vision of a company so deeply rooted in engineering excellence and racing heritage. I look forward to working with the talented teams at McLaren to create the next generation of breathtaking, purpose‑driven cars.”

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Kia Europe has appointed Christophe Mandon as Vice President for Sales and Ownership Experience with effect from 13 April 2026. Reporting directly to Chief Operating Officer Sjoerd Knipping, Mandon will play a key part in advancing the company’s electrification efforts across Europe while also strengthening how Kia engages with its customers throughout their ownership journey.

Mandon arrives at Kia Europe following a successful tenure as Vice President at Kia France, where he led commercial and customer focused strategies in a challenging market. With 28 years of automotive experience, he has held senior leadership positions across France, the Netherlands, Spain, Morocco and Germany, covering regions in Europe, Middle East and Africa.

His extensive background includes key roles at Citroën and Groupe PSA. Most recently, he served as Senior Vice President of Global Sales for Opel and Vauxhall at Stellantis in Germany, bringing deep cross brand and international expertise to his new position at Kia Europe.

Mandon said, “As Kia continues its transformation in Europe through electrification and digitalisation, strong sales performance and an outstanding customer experience are increasingly important. My focus is on supporting the European markets in achieving sustainable sales growth while delivering a seamless experience for customers at every touchpoint.”

Knipping said, “At Kia, customers are at the heart of our European business strategy. Christophe brings extensive international sales leadership experience and a strong understanding of evolving customer expectations. His leadership will be key to accelerating our commercial performance and further strengthening the ownership experience for Kia customers across Europe.”

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Renault India, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has started nationwide customer deliveries of the new Renault Duster SUV.

The first Renault Duster SUV was handed over in Chennai by François Provost, CEO, Renault Group and Stephane Deblaise, CEO of Renault Group in India. The commencement of deliveries follows a period of growth for the subsidiary, which reported a 77 percent increase in sales in March 2026.

The event coincided with the opening of a new 'R store' on Mount Road in Chennai. The facility is spread across 4,500 sqft featuring a 3,000 sqft interaction area and a dedicated delivery bay.

This is the second such store in Chennai and the 11th in India. Renault plans to expand this experiential retail format to 70 outlets across the country within the year, supplementing its existing network of more than 350 sales points.

To support the launch, Renault is offering the Renault Forever programme, which provides vehicle coverage for up to seven years or 150,000 km. The company attributes its recent sales momentum to the introduction of the Duster alongside the updated Kiger and Triber models. The brand aims to utilise the new retail format to provide a different customer interaction model in urban markets.

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