Kia Motors India today launched its first-ever compact SUV, the all-new Sonet in India with a starting price of INR 6.71 lakh for the entry-level HTE smartstream G1.2 5MT variant.
The SUV is offered across 17 variants, including two petrol engines – a versatile Smartstream 1.2-litre four-cylinder and a powerful 1.0 T-GDi (turbocharged petrol direct injection), and two 1.5-litre CRDi diesel engine (WGT & VGT configurations). Available in two trim levels - Tech Line and GT-Line, the car comes with five transmission options - five- and six-speed manuals, an intuitive seven-speed DCT, six-speed automatic, and a new six-speed Smartstream intelligent manual transmission (iMT). The latter is a technological breakthrough from the company offering fatigue-free driving thanks to the absence of a clutch pedal, yet the same driver control as a conventional manual transmission. For the first time in this segment, the 1.5 CRDi diesel motor is also available with a six-speed automatic transmission.
The SUV is loaded with a comprehensive list of features as standard as well as offered with the latest in in-car technology via the Kia UVO Connect.The company also announced the receipt of over 25,000 bookings for its new compact SUV so far.
Kookhyun Shim, MD and CEO at Kia Motors India said “Given the enthusiastic reception it has already received, we are extremely excited about introducing Kia’s latest made-in-India car for the world, the Sonet, in India. The aggressive pricing has been arrived at to bring delight and offer incredible value to the young and the young-at-heart customer of the Sonet. As our endeavour has been to ensure there is a Sonet for virtually all customers in this category, it is being offered with the widest choice in this segment. With its class-leading features, emotional design, exceptional quality and latest technology, the Sonet once again brings alive Kia’s commitment of ‘The Power to Surprise.’ We are sure it will revolutionise the compact SUV segment in the country.”
The Kia Sonet comes with an attractive choice of eight exquisite colours and three dual-tone options that brings its powerful design language to life. The interiors of the Kia Sonet is designed to offer comfort and luxury at the same time, with a well laid-out, easy-to-use connected infotainment and cluster interface along with high-quality materials all around. Despite compact exterior dimensions, the interior of the Sonet offers ample, ergonomic space for all the passengers.
In addition to this, the Sonet comes loaded with multiple segment-first features offering complete comfort, convenience, safety and optimum driving pleasure to customers.
To offer a safe, hassle-free experience, the company ensures a completely paperless, physical contactless end-to-end digital platform for the new car buying process. It may be recalled that the company pioneered this feature right at the inception of its retail business in August 2019. (MT)
Citroen India Launches Limited-Run Aircross Comfort Edition
- By MT Bureau
- June 23, 2026
Stellantis-owned Citroen India has introduced the Aircross Comfort Edition, a limited-run series starting at INR 909,000 (ex-showroom). The launch coincides with the brand’s 108th-anniversary celebrations and aims to provide premium features and comfort-oriented upgrades across all trim levels.
A standout inclusion in this edition is the standardisation of premium leatherette interiors across all Comfort Edition trims, a move the company describes as a segment-first. Other ergonomic improvements include adjustable headrests for both front and rear seats, as well as refined interior finishes with soft-touch materials.
Citroen has introduced a structured accessory pack strategy to allow customers to personalise their vehicles.
YOU Pack (INR 36,600): Includes soft-touch IP, fog lamps, a 10-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a reverse camera with guidelines and door cladding with chrome inserts.
PLUS Pack (INR 8,460): Adds a reverse camera with guidelines, a wireless charger, and door cladding with chrome inserts.
MAX Pack (INR 40,000): Focuses on technology and audio, featuring a JBL speaker system with an amplifier and an advanced front, cabin and rear dashcam with predictive safety alerts (e.g., front collision, lane change and pedestrian detection).
Kumar Priyesh, Business Head & Director – Automotive Brands, Stellantis India, said, “At Citroen, comfort is at the heart of our product philosophy. We have been closely listening to our customers, who are increasingly seeking more features, enhanced comfort, and a premium in-cabin experience at value-driven price points. The Aircross Comfort Edition is a direct response to this evolving demand.”
Skoda Kodiaq RS SUV Sells Out In 6 Minutes In India
- By MT Bureau
- June 23, 2026
Czech automaker Skoda Auto India has announced that its new Kodiaq RS SUV has sold out within six minutes of its release. The limited run of 50 units was offered as part of the brand’s ‘Surrender’ campaign, marking 125 years of Skoda in motorsport and the 51st anniversary of the RS badge.
This achievement follows the performance of the Octavia RS, which sold out in 20 minutes in 2025.
Ashish Gupta, Brand Director, Skoda Auto India, said: “The RS has stood as a global icon for over half a century, with a passionate following in India for more than two decades. With the ‘Surrender’ campaign, we brought to customers a unique combination of performance and versatility in the Kodiaq RS. We are delighted—though not surprised – to see customers truly ‘surrender’ to its motorsport heritage, 4x4 capability, 7-seat luxury, and its standing as the quickest Skoda in India.”
The Skoda Kodiaq RS is powered by a 2.0 TSI engine producing 195 kW (265 PS) and 400 Nm of torque. It features a 7-speed DSG transmission with all-wheel drive, it can accelerate from zero to 100 kmph in a claimed 6.3 seconds and a top speed of 231 kmph. The vehicles is equipped with a dynamic sound boost, progressive steering and Dynamic Chassis Control Plus (DCC Plus).
The exterior features black accents on the grille, ORVMs, window trims, roof rails and D-pillars. The interior includes black leather upholstery with red stitching. The model is available in four colours: Moon White, Magic Black, Velvet Red and Steel Grey.
HMIL Launches Nationwide ‘Hyundai Smart Care Clinic' For Vehicle Health Checks
- By MT Bureau
- June 22, 2026
Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) has launched the nationwide ‘Hyundai Smart Care Clinic’, a service initiative designed to deliver comprehensive vehicle health assessments and special benefits to its customers. This programme underscores the company’s dedication to service excellence, drawing upon its three-decade legacy in the country and its foundational principles of trust, progress and pride.
Scheduled to run from 24 June to 8 July 2026, the clinic will be available at all Hyundai service centres. The offering includes a complimentary 30-point check-up for critical systems like brakes and suspension, alongside significant savings on extended warranty, mechanical labour, parts, car care, roadside assistance and Bluelink subscriptions, with discounts reaching up to 30 percent.
Timed ahead of the anticipated monsoon season, the initiative aims to ensure vehicles are prepared for wet conditions. By promoting timely maintenance and essential repairs, the programme is positioned to enhance vehicle longevity, safety and the overall driving experience for Hyundai owners.
Nilesh Shah, National Service Head, Hyundai Motor India Limited, said, “As Hyundai celebrates 30 years of its journey in India, we remain committed to placing our customers at the heart of everything we do. The Hyundai Smart Care Clinic reflects our customer-first philosophy, offering proactive vehicle care and a holistic service experience. Through this initiative, we aim to strengthen customer trust by ensuring their vehicles remain in optimal condition while delivering enhanced convenience, transparency and a truly rewarding ownership journey.”
Renault India Commences Global Exports Of New Duster SUV
- By MT Bureau
- June 22, 2026
Renault India, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has initiated exports of the new Duster SUV, with an initial shipment of 750 vehicles departing from Chennai to South Africa.
This development follows Renault Group's strategy to position India as a hub for manufacturing, engineering, and exports. The company has set an objective to reach EUR 2 billion in annual exports from India by 2030.
Stephane Deblaise, CEO, Renault Group India, said, "The start of exports of the all-new Duster is an important moment for Renault India and a strong validation of the quality, capabilities, and competitiveness of our operations in Chennai. It reflects the progress we have made in building India into an integral part of Renault’s global industrial footprint.”
"India possesses all the fundamentals required to emerge as a leading automotive export hub: world-class manufacturing capabilities, engineering talent, scale, and a rapidly evolving logistics ecosystem. As Renault continues to expand its international footprint, India will play an increasingly strategic role in our future plans. We remain committed to contributing to the country’s manufacturing ambitions and are working towards our objective of generating EUR 2 billion in annual exports from India by 2030,” he added.
The new Duster is the first vehicle in India built on the Renault Group Modular Platform (RGMP), which supports multiple powertrain technologies. All variants have achieved a 5-star Bharat NCAP safety rating.
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