Kia Syros Makes Global Debut In India
- By MT Bureau
- December 19, 2024
Kia India has marked the global debut of the Syros compact SUV in the country, which is set to enable the South Korean automaker to compete against the likes of Tata Nexon, Maruti Suzuki Brezza and Hyundai Venue in the segment.
Built on the K1 platform, the Kia Syros is equipped with a host of tech including Level 2 ADAS, rear sliding, reclining & ventilated seats, dual-pane panoramic sunroof. The company claims that in addition to be loaded with hi-tech it also gets 20 safety package including - Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill Start Assist control, six airbags, Vehicle Stability Management, Electric Parking Brake with Auto Hold. It also is equipped with Connect 2.0 that provides SOS emergency support, real-time diagnostics, and stolen vehicle tracking.
The Kia Syros can be had in two engine options - Smartstream 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine that produces 88.3 kW (120PS) 172 Nm and 1.5-litre CRDi diesel engine producing 85 kW (116PS) / and 250 Nm of torque, paired with manual and automatic transmission.
Gwanggu Lee, MD and CEO, Kia India, said, "Kia India has always been driven by a challenger spirit, setting new benchmarks in the automotive industry with our commitment to innovation, technology, and customer-centric design. Our journey since the first launch has been nothing short of remarkable, with a growing presence across the country and a focus on delivering high-quality, aspirational vehicles. With the Syros, we are further enhancing our product portfolio, offering a new species of SUV that combines superior comfort, cutting-edge technology, and bold design”.
To meet the diverse customer needs, the Kia Syros is being introduced in four standard trims and 2 option trims HTK, HTK (O), HTK+, HTX, and HTX+, HTX+(O).
Skoda Previews New Electric 7-Seater Peaq With Exterior Sketches
- By MT Bureau
- June 04, 2026
Czech automaker Skoda Auto has released the initial exterior sketches of its upcoming flagship electric vehicle, the Skoda Peaq. The seven-seater SUV marks a new design direction for the brand, utilising clean surfaces, structured details and signature electric vehicle styling cues.
The world premiere of the new flagship SUV is scheduled to take place in Monnetier-Mornex, France, at 18:25 on 23 June 2026.
The exterior of the Peaq represents a consistent application of Skoda's new ‘Modern Solid’ design framework. The aesthetic balances rugged proportions with minimalist, aerodynamic elements tailored for the electric era.
The front features slender, T-shaped headlights and a gloss-black ‘Tech-Deck Face’. A connecting element runs between the assemblies to form a frame-like loop motif, which contrasts against a pronounced, volcano-shaped lower bumper.
The side profile is dominated by a high shoulder line and wide D-pillars to emphasise a wide, stable stance. The sketches also reveal flush door handles seamlessly integrated into the structured body panels to optimise aerodynamic efficiency.
At the rear, the Skoda Peaq echoes the front design language with matching T-shaped taillights and a unified connecting element, establishing a cohesive loop motif that serves as a distinct visual signature.
Karl Neuhold, Head of Exterior Design, Skoda Auto, said, “In designing the exterior of the Skoda Peaq, we consistently applied the Modern Solid design language, combining clean lines, balanced proportions and distinctive elements. Precisely sculpted surfaces and clearly structured details create a confident, timeless presence, while signature features such as the T-shaped headlights and Tech-Deck Face express Skoda’s identity in a new electric era.”
Honda India Foundation Opens Haryana’s First Driving Practice Zone In Mahendragarh
- By MT Bureau
- June 04, 2026
Honda India Foundation (HIF) has inaugurated a new Driving Practice Zone (DPZ) in Mahendragarh, marking the first facility of its kind in the state of Haryana. The community infrastructure project is designed to provide aspiring drivers with a safe, structured environment to practice driving skills and undergo essential road safety training. The facility will be fully accessible and open to the general public free of cost.
The project targets a prominent infrastructure gap common in Tier II and Tier III towns, where a lack of formal, dedicated driving enclosures often compels learners to practice on public roads, escalating safety risks for themselves and other commuters.
The newly opened Driving Practice Zone incorporates both practical and academic training spaces to build comprehensive driver competency before individuals transition to public roads –
- Dedicated Practice Tracks: Specially engineered tracks to help learner drivers systematically build vehicle control, operational confidence, and manoeuvring skills.
- Theoretical Classroom: A dedicated indoor learning space utilised for theoretical instructional sessions, focused on enhancing traffic rule compliance and general road awareness.
Vinay Dhingra, Trustee of the Honda India Foundation, said, “Road safety begins with access to the right training environment. Through this Driving Practice Zone, we aim to provide learner drivers with a safe, structured space to build driving skills, improve awareness and develop responsible road behaviour before they begin driving on public roads. This initiative reflects our continued commitment to making road safety training more accessible at the community level.”
Toyota Launches New Innova Crysta With Refreshed Styling And Enhanced Features At INR 1.97 Million
- By MT Bureau
- June 04, 2026
Toyota Kirloskar Motor, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has announced the launch of its popular new Innova Crysta in India. The updated multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) introduces targeted design updates and added cabin convenience features while preserving the foundational mechanical architecture of the long-running Innova brand.
The introduction follows a legacy spanning over two decades in the Indian market, where the Innova brand has achieved cumulative sales exceeding 1.3 million units.
The new Innova Crysta features subtle exterior and interior design revisions aimed at providing a contemporary, premium aesthetic without altering the vehicle's familiar silhouette.
On the outside, the front profile receives a newly styled radiator grille and updated front bumper garnish. The rear profile has been updated with refreshed bumper garnish elements to enhance visual solidity.
The interior introduces new dual-tone leather seat upholstery alongside updated trim finishes. The instrument panel, door trims and bezels feature ‘Grace Copper’ and wood-pattern highlights. Additionally, the AC controls, switches and rear seat-back table incorporate refined detailing to improve perceived quality. Functional additions to the feature list include a wireless smartphone charger and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
The vehicle retains Toyota's established mechanical layout, optimised for low-end torque and long-distance drivability.
The Innova Cysta is powered exclusively by a 2.4-litre diesel engine paired with a manual transmission. The powertrain configuration delivers a certified fuel efficiency of up to 15 kmpl.
It gets up to seven airbags, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Control and Hill Start Assist Control for safety.
The MPV is backed by a standard warranty of 3 years/100,000 km (extendable up to 5 years/220,000 km), supported by 24x7 roadside assistance and flexible retail finance options.
The new Innova Crysta is available in five colour options – Platinum White Pearl, Super White, Silver Metallic, Attitude Black Mica and Avant-Garde Bronze Metallic. It is structured across both 7-seater (7S) and 8-seater (8S) configurations with prices starting at INR 1.97 million up to INR 2.66 million for the top-end variant (ex-showroom).
Sabari Manohar, Executive Vice-President, Sales-Service-Used Car Business, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “Having sold over 1.3 million units of brand Innova, the Innova Crysta has set unmatched benchmarks in the MPV segment through its two-decade legacy of reliability, comfort, and value. The refreshed New Innova Crysta introduces subtle yet meaningful updates, bringing a renewed sense of freshness while retaining the unrivalled qualities customers value most. Guided by continuous improvement and customer-centric innovation, we remain committed to delivering trusted mobility for every stage of life.”
Nissan Motor India Records 118% Domestic Sales Growth In May 2026
- By MT Bureau
- June 01, 2026
Nissan Motor India (NMIPL), one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has announced its sales performance for May 2026, recording a 118 percent YoY growth in domestic sales, albeit a low-year-ago base.
The company reported 2,948 units wholesales last month, which also marked its third consecutive month of YoY growth, signalling sustained sales momentum in the Indian market.
Interestingly, the company’s total sales for May 2026 came at 7,971 units, which includes 2,948 units in the domestic market and 5,023 units shipped to international markets during the month.
The company said its domestic sales trajectory was driven by customer interest across Nissan's updated India lineup, including the Gravite and Magnite SUVs. It is currently preparing for the upcoming World Premiere of the Nissan Tekton, which is part of Nissan's broader strategy to diversify its product portfolio and expand its network footprint across India.
Saurabh Vatsa, Managing Director, Nissan Motor India, said, “Our third consecutive month of year-on-year domestic sales growth is an encouraging reflection of the trust customers continue to place in Nissan. The response to the all-new Nissan Gravite, along with the continued strength of the Nissan Magnite, including the growing adoption of our CNG offerings, gives us confidence in our India strategy. As we gear up for the World Premiere of the Nissan Tekton, our focus remains on expanding our network footprint, enhancing accessibility, and delivering a stronger customer experience across the country.”

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