As the lockdown restrictions are lifted and cities across India see relaxations on movement, people are gradually bound to get behind the wheel. While it isn’t advisable to step out just yet, it is necessary to take precautions by cleaning, sanitising, and disinfecting your car to ensure all around safety before hitting the road. This is because cleaning physically removes germs with soap and water but does not kill them. Sanitising lowers the number of germs and kills bacteria, and thus the risk of spreading infection. Disinfecting uses chemicals to kill bacteria, viruses and fungi, further complementing the cleaning and sanitising.
Ford India states warns car users to be sure to choose a disinfecting spray safe for your vehicle’s interior. Household cleaning products contain ingredients like bleach, acetone, chlorine, and ammonia, which will damage the interior materials and paint of your vehicle. To take disinfecting your vehicle to the next level, purchase a disinfectant germ fogger.
When cleaning using detailing products, do not spray directly onto surfaces like the dashboard. Spray products into a microfibre towel and then apply to the surface. While you’re at it, take the dirt from fabric seats and headliner with a quick vacuum. If you have access to a wet vacuum with shampoo it will garner better results. And don’t forget a quick wash of regularly-touched exterior surfaces, specifically door handles.
Leather
Try the product of your choice – again, free of harmful ingredients like bleach, acetone, chlorine, and ammonia – at the rear portion of the steering wheel and wait for its effects to the materialise. If there is no stain, or any discoloration on the leather you can continue using the product. Much like using the detailing products, DO NOT spray onto the surface, but spray into a clean micro-fibre towel and gently apply the product.
Disinfecting
You’re now ready to disinfect your vehicle. Hard surfaces like plastic buttons and knobs can be wiped down with a bleach-free disinfectant wipe or apply your disinfecting spray onto a microfibre cloth. Given how often you probably interact with your infotainment screen, be it a infotainment touchscreen or otherwise, opt for an electronic-specific non-toxic device-cleaning wipe.
Where to Use
This list might seem extensive, but it’s by no means comprehensive. Anything you find yourself touching throughout your day should be wiped down, and a solid place to start is to think of the first thing you touch as you approach your Ford, to the last thing you touch before getting out.
- Key/Key FOB
- Exterior Door Handle
- Interior Door Handle
- Lock and Unlock Buttons and Interior Door Release
- Seatbelt and Seatbelt Buckle. Also include the release button
- Push-to-Start Button, or Ignition Area
- Rearview Mirror, and Automatic Side Mirror Buttons
- HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) Buttons
- Radio Buttons and Knobs or Infotainment Touchscreen
- Gear Selector
- Parking Brake Lever
- Steering Wheel and Wheel Mounted Buttons
- Signal and Wiper Stalk
- Headlights Knob
- Centre Console and Cup Holders
Other areas to disinfect
- Window Buttons
- Terrain Management System (TMS) Rotary Knob
- Glove Compartment Handle
- Tailgate/Hatch Release and Power Close Button
- Power Folding Third Row Buttons
- Fuel Cap
Once you have finished disinfecting the car, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap. In fact, this step-up in personal hygiene is a habit that should be continued even after the Covid-19 pandemic is over. (MT)
Maruti Suzuki India Launches Victoris Aurum Edition To Mark Sales Milestone
- By MT Bureau
- October 24, 2026
Maruti Suzuki India, the country’s largest carmaker, has introduced the Victoris Aurum Edition Strong Hybrid to mark the first anniversary of the Victoris SUV, featuring an accessory kit priced at INR 22,990.
The launch follows the model reaching sales of 100,000 and 150,000 units within its initial year of production. The Aurum Edition incorporates copper-coloured inserts on the front, side and rear skid plates, along with revised wheel arch trim.
On the outside, it gets chrome garnishes across the front grille, fenders, bumpers, body side mouldings and door visors. Interior additions comprise all-weather 3D cabin mats, a 3D boot mat and a trunk sill guard.
Furthermore, the company has partnered with actor Shahid Kapoor to lead the promotional campaign for the variant.
Partho Banerjee, Senior Executive Officer – Marketing and Sales, Maruti Suzuki India, said, "Conceptualised as a ‘Got it All’ SUV for today’s dynamic young go-getters who ‘want it all’, the Victoris has truly won the hearts of buyers. As we celebrate its first anniversary, it’s worth noting that the Victoris has become the fastest-selling PV to clock both the 150,000- and 100,000-unit sales milestones, going on to achieve the highest sales for any car in India during its 1st year of launch. Recognising these extraordinary achievements, we are introducing the Victoris Aurum Edition Strong Hybrid, with tasteful enhancements that are sure to grab eyeballs and make this festive season feel all the more special for our valuable customers. Our association with Shahid Kapoor, for the new Aurum Edition is also sure to complement the Victoris’ contemporary appeal."
Hyundai Bayon To Feature 69% High-Strength Steel Grade For Enhanced Safety
- By MT Bureau
- October 21, 2026
Hyundai Motor India, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has detailed the safety specifications and platform architecture for its upcoming Bayon SUV model ahead of its official launch in India on 26 October 2026.
Built on the Global K Enhanced Platform, the Bayon utilises a body structure comprising of 69 percent high-strength steel grades, integrating hot-stamped components across the front apron, dashboard, rear floor and side reinforcements.
The vehicle incorporates Hyundai SmartSense Level 2 Pro ADAS, providing 23 driver assistance features supported by three radar units and 12 parking sensors. Over 35 safety features are fitted as standard across all variants, including six airbags, electronic stability control, hill-start assist control, a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and ISOFIX child seat anchors.
The Bayon will be powered by a 1.5-litre MPi four-cylinder petrol engine producing 84.4 kW (115 PS) and 143.8 Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed manual or an Intelligent Variable Transmission. Exterior options will span 10 colour configurations across monotone, dual-tone, and matte finishes.
Tarun Garg, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Hyundai Motor India, said, "At Hyundai, we believe that true innovation is meaningful only when it enhances the everyday experiences of our customers. With the Hyundai BAYON, we have combined a robust body structure, advanced safety technologies, and intelligent driver assistance systems to deliver a comprehensive safety experience. From its reinforced chassis and high-strength steel construction to Hyundai SmartSense Level 2 Pro ADAS, the BAYON is engineered to inspire confidence not only in challenging situations, but throughout every journey. This reflects our commitment to delivering intelligent mobility solutions that are safe, connected, and progressive for modern India."
Mitsubishi Motors Launches All-New Pajero In Thailand Ahead Of Global Rollout
- By MT Bureau
- October 21, 2026
Japanese automotive major Mitsubishi Motors has commenced sales of the Pajero cross-country SUV in Thailand, serving as the initial market for the model’s international release.
The Pajero’s production takes place at the Laem Chabang facility operated by Mitsubishi Motors in Chonburi Province, which functions as a manufacturing hub for export operations.
Shipments to Australia and Japan are scheduled ahead of market releases in mid-December, followed by sequential introductions across approximately 100 countries and regions in the Middle East and Latin America starting in fiscal 2027.
The Pajero integrates four-wheel-drive capability with passenger car handling characteristics and positioning as a flagship offering.
Keisuke Kishiura, President and Chief Operating Officer, Mitsubishi Motors, said, "We are delighted to begin sales of the all-new Pajero in Thailand as the first market for its global rollout. Thailand is not only an important market for Mitsubishi Motors, but also a key hub for our production and exports. The all-new Pajero is a flagship model that embodies Mitsubishi Motors and is positioned among the top-tier cross-country SUVs in the Thai market. We will continue to deliver appealing products from Thailand to customers around the world and provide value that exceeds expectations."
Param Automotive Inaugurates Upgraded Mahindra Showroom In Ahmedabad
- By MT Bureau
- October 20, 2026
Param Automotive Group has inaugurated an upgraded dealership facility in Ahmedabad to mark its silver jubilee year.
Located at the site established in 2002, the facility spans 40,000 square feet and features display space for 18 vehicles.
The showroom includes customer lounges, delivery zones, accessory bays, test-drive areas and hospitality spaces to support vehicle sales and customer service operations.
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