Maruti Suzuki India, the country’s largest carmaker, has announced that it will offer six airbags as a standard offering across the Maruti Suzuki Arena portfolio, which includes WagonR, Alto K10, Celerio and Eeco.

The move comes amid evolving mobility patterns and the rapid expansion of India’s high-speed expressway network, underlining the growing importance of occupant protection.

Partho Banerjee, Senior Executive Officer, Maruti Suzuki India, said, “India’s rapidly expanding modern road infrastructure, high-speed expressways, and evolving mobility patterns imply that the need for robust safety measures has never been greater. We at Maruti Suzuki are committed to staying ahead of evolving customer expectations and making high-end safety accessible. With the decision of making 6 airbags standard in the WagonR, Alto K10, Celerio and Eeco, we are ensuring that enhanced safety is available for all. Given the immense popularity of these models, this move substantially elevates safety standards for a vast number of motorists and contributes holistically to occupant protection nationwide.”

To amplify awareness around this safety upgrade, Maruti Suzuki Arenha has launched a dynamic marketing campaign that highlights the value of six airbags in a fun and engaging way. The campaign features high-energy activities such as Zorbing and Bubble Football—symbolising the protective bubble that airbags provide in real-world driving conditions.

The six-airbag system includes dual front airbags, side airbags and curtain airbags, all designed to provide comprehensive protection. Additional safety enhancements include 3-point seat belts with reminders for all passengers, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Hill Hold Assist and ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), among others.

Tata Motors, one of India’s leading automotive manufacturers, has unveiled all-new Tata Altroz, ahead of its launch on 22 May 2025.

The Altroz hatchback is built on the Tata Motors’ advanced ALFA (Agile Light Flexible Advanced) architecture. It also was available with innovative twin-cylinder CNG technology in 2023. 

Now the company has further upgraded the model with sculpted lines and a bold 3D front grille. It gets all-new Luminate LED Lamps, Infinity connected LED Tail lamps and flush door handles. On the inside, the Altroz gets a new Grand Prestigia dashboard and UltraView twin HD screens.

The Altroz will be available in five colour options – Dune Glow, Ember Glow, Pure Grey, Royal Blue and Pristine White – each with distinct personas: Smart, Pure, Creative, Accomplished S, and Accomplished+ S.

Stellantis-owned brands Citroen and Jeep have rolled out dedicated service campaigns dubbed ‘Citroen Summer Cruise 2025’ and ‘Jeep Summer Splash 2025,’ These initiatives aim to ensure vehicle readiness and offer significant value to customers across India. The campaigns are active from 2^nd May to 31st May 2025.

Citroen's offering, the Summer Cruise 2025, emphasises a comfortable and worry-free summer driving experience. The company states the campaign will provide personalised services and exclusive deals, reinforcing its commitment to a customer-centric ownership journey focused on well-being and convenience.

Meanwhile, Jeep's Summer Splash 2025 campaign taps into the brand's adventurous spirit, presenting exciting offers, services and lifestyle enhancements designed to prepare every Jeep for confident summer exploration.

Both campaigns promise a range of benefits for vehicle owners:

Free Summer Check-Up: A complimentary inspection to identify and address any potential issues that could impact vehicle performance and safety during the summer.

Discounted Services and Parts: Special pricing on labour costs, select genuine parts, accessories and value-added services tailored for summer driving needs.

Extended Warranty Benefits: Enhanced coverage options and rewards are available with the purchase of an extended warranty.

Merchandise and Accessory Offers: Opportunities to purchase limited-edition Citroen and Jeep branded items to refresh summer style.

Improved Customer Service: Seamless appointment scheduling and expert support from factory-trained technicians are guaranteed.

Mercedes-Benz India, the country’s leading luxury carmaker, has announced that it will revise the ex-showroom prices of its model range in two phases, starting 1 June 2025. The company attributes it to a steep depreciation of the INR against the Euro and the resulting spike in import costs.

The first increase, ranging from INR 90,000 for the C-Class to INR 1.2 million for the Mercedes-Maybach S 680, will be implemented in June. A further nominal 1.5 percent hike will follow from 1 September 2025. This two-stage strategy aims to give customers financial flexibility and minimise the immediate impact.

To soften the effect, Mercedes-Benz Financial Services will offer innovative financing options, including flexible EMIs and partial ownership plans. For models like the GLA and GLC, EMI changes will be under INR 2,000

Santosh Iyer, MD & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, said, “Over the last four months, the rupee has depreciated in the market, with an approximate 10 percent drop in the Euro to INR exchange rate, causing significant cost pressures on our business operations. This steep swing in the Euro-INR rate has been severely impacting the cost of imports, for both components and CBU cars. Though we have been absorbing most of the exchange rate difference to date and increasing our localisation initiatives, we are now compelled to pass on a small portion of it to customers. The continuous rise in operational costs, influenced by forex movement, necessitates this slight price correction, which we will pass on to the market, for sustained business of the company and our Franchise Partners. This staggered approach for price revision, along with the value-added flexible financing programmes from MBFS, will not only minimise any financial burden, but will also offer customers a robust leeway to plan their purchases, best suited to their requirements.”

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.”