L-R: Akhilesh Kumar Roy, Business Head – Auto Loans, Inventory Finance and Two-Wheeler Loans, HDFC Bank and Shishir Mishra, Business Head & Director – Strategic Partnerships & Institutional Business, Stellantis India.

European automaker Citroen India has partnered with HDFC Bank, one of India’s largest private sector banks, for retail and dealer finance solutions.

This move, the company shared further strengthens the Stellantis–HDFC alliance, making HDFC Bank the exclusive preferred financier for all Stellantis brands in India, including Jeep, Maserati and now Citroen.

A standout feature for Citroen customers would be access to HDFC Xpress Car Loan, an industry-leading solution offering 30-minute disbursals through a 100 percent digital interface.

HDFC Bank shared that auto loans have been one of the significant contributors to its retail assets segment with around INR 14,800 billion in its auto loan books.

Shishir Mishra, Business Head & Director – Strategic Partnerships & Institutional Business, Stellantis India, said, “Financing plays a pivotal role in the car buying journey. New-age customers are increasingly seeking smart, flexible financing solutions that align with their lifestyles and convenience. They value speed, transparency, and convenience in their car-buying journey, making innovative finance options a key decision driver. At Citroen, we believe in making mobility more accessible and seamless for our customers and partners. This partnership with HDFC Bank not only strengthens our financing ecosystem but also reaffirms our commitment to delivering holistic, convenient and trusted experiences across all touchpoints.”

Arvind Vohra, Group Head – Retail Assets, HDFC Bank, said, “We are pleased to partner with Citroen for offering a simplified auto-financing journey. HDFC Bank’s vast geographical footprint, consumer centric banking products and robust credit intelligence capabilities will unlock a speedier and convenient auto ownership journey.”

BMW Group India is reporting record-breaking sales for the first three quarters of 2025 (calendar year), marking its strongest performance in the market to date. Between January and September, the company delivered 11,978 cars and 3,976 motorcycles. The BMW brand itself contributed 11,510 car sales, while MINI accounted for 468 units. This impressive growth trajectory was particularly strong in the third quarter, which saw a 21 percent year-on-year sales increase and set a new record for both the quarter and the month of September, fuelled by festive demand and favourable market conditions post GST 2.0.

A significant driver of this success is the company's electric vehicle portfolio, which solidifies its position as the country's leading luxury EV brand. Sales of electric BMW and MINI models surged by an astounding 246 percent, with 2,509 units delivered. This pushed the EV contribution to total car sales to 21 percent, led by the iX1 and the flagship i7 sedan. This momentum also allowed BMW Group India to surpass a cumulative total of 5,000 electric vehicle deliveries during the third quarter. The company supports its six electric cars and two electric scooters with a comprehensive charging ecosystem, including complimentary Wallbox chargers, a fast-charging dealer network and access to over 6,000 public charging points.

Further defining the sales landscape is the exceptional demand for long wheelbase models, which grew by 169 percent to 5,720 units. These models, including the 7 Series, 5 Series, 3 Series and the iX1, now constitute half of all car sales. The 3 Series emerged as the highest-selling BMW sedan, praised for its spaciousness and powerful engine, while the 7 Series continues to be the segment's most desirable ultra-luxury limousine.

The Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) segment also remains a cornerstone of BMW's dominance, with 7,040 units sold, a 19 percent increase that represents 59 percent of total sales. The X1 was the highest-selling model across the entire portfolio and within its segment, followed by the flagship X7. Meanwhile, the MINI brand delivered 468 units between January to September 2025 and saw the Cooper S model achieve a sales growth of over 90 percent. BMW Motorrad sold 3,976 motorcycles, with the G 310 RR and the 1300 GS / GSA models leading their respective categories.

Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India, said, “BMW Group India has continuously succeeded in attaining high growth throughout 2025. The highest-ever sales in first nine months as well as in the third quarter reflect our unparalleled focus on customer centricity. The strong product offensive coupled with excellent aftersales services, personalised brand engagements and financial offers have spurred demand significantly. Our long-term strategy is aimed at successfully unlocking the potential of luxury car market and increasing market share while maintaining the core of JOY and Sheer Driving Pleasure we promise. The order bank remains healthy, and we are confident of closing the year with best-ever sales once again.”

Bentley has inaugurated a significant new phase for its brand in India with the launch of its latest showrooms in Mumbai and Bengaluru. These new facilities, now fully operational, are designed to deliver an exceptional retail and ownership journey, aligning with India's emergence as a rapidly expanding luxury car market.

Strategically situated at The Galleria (Trident Hotel) in Mumbai and Indraprastha Invictus in Bengaluru, the spaces are crafted to reflect Bentley's international benchmarks for excellence. They provide an exclusive and engaging environment for clients to discover the brand's full lineup. This expansion is a collaborative effort along with Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited and in partnership with Infinity Cars Private Limited and Kun Premium Cars Private Limited.

Each location features a dedicated team of specialists committed to offering highly personalised service from sales through aftersales, guaranteeing a seamless and distinguished customer experience. The available model range, including the Bentayga, Flying Spur and Continental GT families, showcases Bentley's signature blend of meticulous craftsmanship, powerful performance and contemporary luxury, all equipped with the latest technology.

Richard Leopold, Regional Director – EMEA, Bentley Motors, said, “India is one of the fastest-growing luxury car markets in the world, offering an ideal environment for Bentley – a brand whose combination of performance and innovation makes it the perfect fit for its luxury segment. Our new showrooms are more than just an expansion of our network – they mark an important step in bringing the Bentley experience closer to our customers and opening the door to new enthusiasts. With India’s strong cultural connection to the UK and British brands, we are proud to represent Bentley here. Together with our integration with SAVWIPL, we are strategically positioned to deepen our commitment to the Indian market – driving growth, strengthening our network and welcoming many more customers into the Bentley community."

Abbey Thomas, Brand Director, Bentley India, said, "At Bentley, we believe luxury goes beyond the product – it is defined by the experience. Our showrooms are designed as warm, contemporary spaces that reflect this philosophy, placing the customer at the heart of a truly bespoke journey. With the launch of our new showrooms in Mumbai and Bengaluru, we are bringing the world of Bentley even closer to our discerning clientele across India. We are proud to partner with Infinity Cars and Kun Premium cars, who share our values and vision, and will represent Bentley with distinction delivering an elevated customer experience and setting new benchmarks for excellence in these key cities."

German automotive luxury brand Mercedes-Benz has announced its plans to integrate customer activities from vehicle sales and financial services into one organisation at the end of the year. The move aims to enhance efficiency, leverage synergies and enable system harmonisation.

A key step in this transformation is the planned merger of Mercedes-Benz Mobility (MBM AG) into Mercedes-Benz on 31 December 2025, subject to regulatory approval. Core functions of the financial services business will remain under the Mercedes-Benz Financial Services unit to meet central regulatory requirements.

Furthermore, Franz Reiner, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Mobility, will leave the company on 31 December 2025, at his request. Reiner began his career at the former Daimler-Benz in 1992 and held management positions, including CEO of Mercedes-Benz Mobility since 2019.

Harald Wilhelm, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group, responsible for Finance & Controlling and Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Mercedes-Benz Mobility, said, “With his visionary and value-driven leadership, Franz Reiner has shaped the development of Mercedes-Benz Mobility for more than three decades. As a true entrepreneur within the company, he combines an exceptional sense for customer needs with a strong commitment to our dealer network. Through his international experience, he has played a decisive role in advancing the success and sustainable growth of our financial services business, positioning the organisation for the future. We sincerely thank him for his outstanding dedication, integrity, and pioneering spirit, and wish him all the very best for the future.”

Peter Henn, currently President & CEO of Mercedes-Benz Financial Services USA and Head of Mercedes-Benz Mobility North America, will assume global leadership of Mercedes-Benz Financial Services on 1st May 2026.

Until that date, Henn will continue to oversee the transformation in North America and support the relocation of the Financial Services organisation from Farmington Hills, Michigan, to Atlanta, Georgia.

Tolga Oktay, currently Member of the Board of Management for Finance and Controlling at Mercedes-Benz Mobility, will take interim responsibility for the Financial Services business, reporting to Harald Wilhelm.

Henn joined the company in 2007 and was appointed to the Board of Management of the former Daimler Financial Services in 2014, responsible for the Africa & Asia-Pacific region, before taking his current role.

Harald Wilhelm, added: “With Peter Henn, we are gaining an experienced and internationally minded leader to head Mercedes-Benz Financial Services. Throughout his more than 25-year global career, Peter has consistently demonstrated his ability to guide teams successfully through major transformation phases and deliver strong business results – always with a clear focus on a strong company culture and the highest standards of integrity and compliance.”

Kia India, a leading passenger vehicle manufacturer, has added new trim and six-seater configurations for the Carens Clavis across multiple existing variants.

The Carens Clavis lineup now grows to eight trims with the addition of the new HTX(O) trim, priced at INR 1.92 million (ex-showroom). Positioned just above the HTX variant, the HTX(O) trim is exclusively available with the Smartstream G1.5 Turbo-GDi petrol engine and 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (7DCT).

The trim gets new premium features, such as – BOSE Premium Sound System with 8 Speakers. Drive Mode Select (Eco/Normal/Sport) (7DCT), Smart Key Remote Engine Start (7DCT), Electric Parking Brake with Auto Hold (7DCT).

Furthermore, Kia has also introduced a six-seater configuration in the following trims:

• HTK+ (G1.5T 7DCT & D1.5 6AT)
• HTK+(O) (G1.5T 7DCT)
• HTX(O) (G1.5T 7DCT)

Atul Sood, Senior VP and National Head, Sales and Marketing, Kia India, said, “Reinforcing our commitment to elevating the overall brand experience, we are happy to strengthen the Carens Clavis lineup and make every variant a compelling choice. Our customers inspire every innovation we make. And hence, with the lineup expansion we have not just introduced a new HTX(O) trim but also addressed their desire on adding the 6-seater variant options. With these additions, we wish more consumers enjoy the power of choice without compromising on their needs.”

The entire Carens Clavis lineup continues to offer high levels of safety and convenience, featuring Level 2 ADAS with 20 autonomous features, Six Airbags, Electronic Stability Control, and Kia Connect as part of its core offering.