Honda Cars India Ltd (HCIL), India's premier luxury automobile manufacturer, has received E20 (20 percent ethanol blended) petrol compliance certification for all of its current models, including the Honda Elevate, Honda City e:HEV, Honda City and Honda Amaze. It also includes the E20 compliance certification gained for the 2nd Generation Honda Amaze in January 2025.

Since 2009, HCIL has adopted E20 fuel, and as of 1 January 2009, all Honda vehicles built in India are compatible with E20 materials. This shows the company's constant dedication to its consumers by giving them access to the most cutting-edge international goods and services first. Customers may utilise E20 petrol in their current Honda vehicles without worrying about the car's longevity or needing to replace any parts. In order to meet current pollution standards, the Indian government has required that all gasoline-powered mono- and bi-fuel cars with positive ignition engines, including hybrids, built on or after 1 April 2025, be certified using ethanol (E20) fuel.

Kunal Behl, Vice President – Marketing & Sales, Honda Cars India Ltd, said, "At Honda Cars India, we are committed to driving sustainable mobility solutions, and all our cars have been E20 material compatible since Jan 2009 enabling our customers to seamlessly adopt the greener E20 fuel without any modifications. The latest compliance certification for all our current models ahead of the pan India E20 fuel introduction aligns with the Government of India’s goal to implement greener fuels. As India moves towards a cleaner and more sustainable future, HCIL will continue to remain at the forefront.”

French automaker Renault has inaugurated its second new‘R store dealership in India, the first in Maharashtra, under its renault. rethink. brand transformation strategy.

Featuring a sleek black facade and an updated logo designed in line with global standards the new'R store in Mumbai showcases Renault’s New Visual Identity (NVI).

It features a redesigned layout that has ample room for cars, allowing visitors to move freely and explore each model from various angles.

Francisco Hidalgo, Vice-President (Sales & Marketing), Renault India Operations, said, “Renault’s vision for 2025 is built on renault. rethink. a comprehensive strategy aimed at transforming our brand perception in India. Alongside our recent launch of the Design Centre in Chennai – the largest outside France – the opening of our first New Visual Identity (NVI) store in Maharashtra not only expands our footprint but also underscores our growing ambition to offer Indian customers the finest global innovations. We aim to deliver not only world-class products but also an exceptional buying experience that reflects our global commitment to excellence.”

The new facility spans across 2,100 sqft, offers a 360-degree product experience, houses three display vehicles and a dedicated consultation area.

Sanjay Thakker, Chairman and Founder, Group Landmark, said, “Renault India is undergoing a remarkable transformation, and we are thrilled to be part of this exciting journey. The new’R store in Mumbai represents more than just a physical expansion—it embodies Renault’s renewed vision and its unwavering commitment to delivering a world-class experience to Indian customers. We are proud to contribute to this groundbreaking new retail format that reflects the dynamic spirit of the brand and reaffirms our belief in its bright future in India.”

Kia India has expanded its Carens lineup with the launch of the Carens Clavis, which is a three-row vehicle available in 6- and 7-seat configurations.

The company shared that the name ‘Clavis’ comes from the Latin phrase Clavis Aurea, meaning ‘Golden Key’, and is positioned by the company as a vehicle suited to families seeking flexible space and utility.

Since its debut three years ago, the Carens has gone home to over 200,000 families in India. According to the company, the Clavis is a response to changing consumer requirements and builds on the Carens platform with added features.

The Carens Clavis includes exterior elements such as Kia’s Digital Tiger Face, LED headlamps with DRLs, and connected LED taillamps. It rides on 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels and includes front and rear skid plates, side door inserts and is available in a new Ivory Silver Gloss paint option.

On the inside, the Clavis features a dual-display setup combining infotainment and driver information panels, measuring 26.62 cm each. The cabin includes sliding and reclining second-row seating with one-touch tumble function, third-row access with a segment-first electric folding mechanism and an optional panoramic sunroof.

Other interior features include seat-mounted air purifiers, roof-mounted air vents, ambient lighting with multiple colour options, ventilated front seats, powered driver seat adjustment and an 8-speaker audio system from Bose.

The Carens Clavis comes with remote control for power windows and a 360-degree camera system paired with a blind view monitor displayed in the instrument cluster. Spot lamps have been integrated into the rear doors for additional visibility.

On the safety front, the Carens Clavis includes Level 2 ADAS with 20 autonomous features such as – Smart Cruise Control, Forward Collision Avoidance, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance and more. The standard safety package includes six airbags, Electronic Stability Control and Rear Occupant Alert.

The Carens Clavis is offered with three engine options: the Smartstream G1.5 petrol, the Smartstream G1.5 Turbo-GDi petrol (available with a manual transmission) and the D1.5 diesel. The vehicle will be available in seven trims: HTE, HTE(O), HTK, HTK+, HTK+(O), HTX, and HTX+.

Available colour options include Ivory Silver Gloss, Pewter Olive, Imperial Blue, Glacier White Pearl, Gravity Grey, Sparkling Silver, Aurora Black Pearl, and Clear White.

Gwanggu Lee, MD and CEO, Kia India, said, “Innovation is the core of everything we do, driven by advanced technology and distinctive design. The unveiling of the Carens Clavis represents a key milestone in our journey, embodying our commitment to a progressive, premium and purpose-led approach. We recognise the evolving needs of our customers and with the Carens Clavis, we’re offering more than just a vehicle, it’s a thoughtfully crafted experience that enhances everyday mobility. As we continue to push boundaries, we remain focused on delivering smart, design-led solutions that empower families and inspire confidence on every drive.”

Hyundai Motor India, a leading passenger vehicle manufacturer, has introduced two new variants – S Smart and SX Smart – for the Hyundai Exter SUV with prices starting at INR 768,490.

The new variants of the Hyundai Exter see the introduction of an electric sunroof on the S Smart variant and a smart key with push-button start on the SX Smart variant. Additionally, customers can upgrade to a 22.96-cm infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, along with a rear camera at a special price of INR 14,999, backed by a 3-year warranty. The OEM has now standardised Child seat anchor - ISOFIX for Exter.

The new variants are available in both manual and AMT transmissions, in petrol and Hy-CNG Duo powertrains.

Tarun Garg, Whole-Time Director and Chief Operating Officer, Hyundai Motor India, said, “At HMIL, we are committed to democratising technology and making meaningful innovations accessible to a wider set of customers. The introduction of S Smart and SX Smart variants on the Hyundai Exter is a reflection of this customer centric philosophy. With these new variants, we are offering a more compelling value proposition to young and tech-savvy Indian buyers. We are confident that the Hyundai Exter will continue to redefine aspirations and further strengthen its position as a preferred SUV for customers.”

Established on 6 May 1996, Hyundai Motor India (HMIL) is observing its 29th foundation day as it enters 30th year of operations in the country.

The company, which entered the country with the Santro hatchback, has become a key player in the country’s passenger vehicle market. It was just recently, the Korean automaker announced an investment of INR 15 billion towards revamping and modernising its Chennai manufacturing facility. Furthermore, with the cumulation of operations at its Talegaon facility in Maharashtra by Q4 2025, Hyundai Motor India is targeting a cumulative annual production capacity of 1 million units.

To date, the automaker has exported over 3.7 million vehicles from the country. It is among the leading car exporters with shipments to over 150 countries.

Hyundai Motor India continues to stand among the top three global contributors to Hyundai Motor Company’s sales, accounting for 18.5 percent of its global volumes in CY 2024.

Unsoo Kim, Managing Director, Hyundai Motor India, stated, “Envisioning India at the heart of global manufacturing and commerce, Hyundai began its journey with the country 29 years ago with a vision of mutual progress. Today, we take pride in our progress – providing smart mobility solutions, and a future that reflects innovation, sustainability and a connection with our customers. Guided by our global vision of ‘Progress for Humanity,’ HMIL will continue to drive transformation in products and services, while contributing meaningfully to society.”

Hyundai began its India journey with the groundbreaking of its manufacturing facility in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu. Operations at the manufacturing facility began in September 1998 with the commissioning of Hyundai’s first integrated car manufacturing plant 1 outside of South Korea.