“When we launched the Kona Electric in 2018 as the world’s first fully-electric subcompact SUV, it represented a major step forward for affordable e-mobility,” says Andreas- Christoph Hofmann, Vice President Marketing and Product at Hyundai Motor Europe. “With the new Kona Electric, we’re showing that Hyundai is fully committed to zero-emissions driving, by providing our customers with enhanced driving assistance and safety features, making it an even more desirable package.”

Stylish Appearance

By combining a clean and sleek appearance with the protective and bold B-SUV body type of the Kona, it expresses its exceptional electric technology while being even more recognisable on the road. The front with the new-look closed grille features a pure and clean design. The new LED Daytime Running Lights further enhance the car’s wide stance. The front is complemented by an asymmetric charging port, a feature unique to the Kona Electric which makes a strong statement about driving electric.

New, sharper headlamps stretch around the side of the car. The high-tech headlamp inner bezel now incorporates multifaceted reflector (MFR) technology. The headlamps are connected to the painted wheel arch claddings, giving the new Kona Electric a distinctive and sophisticated look. Vertical air inlets in front of the wheel arch claddings enhance its aerodynamics, substantially reducing turbulence in the front wheelhouse area. Meanwhile, a functional air intake in the lower bumper is visually enhanced by horizontal satin accent bars, which give it a pronounced stance.

The rear bumper retains the accent bars to add value to the overall look of the car, while new horizontally-stretched rear lamps complement the pure appearance of the front.

The new Kona Electric is 25 millimetres longer than the previous version. This ensures it has a dynamic appearance combined with a strong visual stance.

Updated Interior

For the first time, the new Kona Electric is equipped with a 10.25- inch digital cluster, while an optional 10.25-inch AVN screen is carried over from the last update. The AVN unit incorporates multimedia and convenience features including Bluelink, Hyundai LIVE Services and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, further democratising advanced connectivity for Hyundai drivers. Customers who select the eight-inch Display Audio system can wirelessly connect their smartphones to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

New Kona Electric customers can enjoy the new Bluelink upgrade, which allows them to control their car with their smartphone or voice to make their drive more convenient and enjoyable. Thanks to Remote Charging, new Kona Electric drivers can start and stop charging at the push of a button on their smartphone via the Bluelink app. During colder months, Remote Climate Control allows users to schedule a time that they would like to pre-heat their car electrically when connected to an external power source. As well as providing additional comfort to occupants, this also saves battery power that would otherwise be needed to heat the vehicle on the road.

The new ambient light technology illuminates the passenger and driver side footwell, emphasising the lifestyle character of the vehicle.

Driving Range

Like its predecessor, the new Kona Electric offers two different zero-emissions battery electric powertrains, with no compromises on performance. The long-range version with a 64 kWh battery features an electric motor which delivers maximum power of 204 PS (150 kW). The basic version has a battery capacity of 39.2 kWh, with the motor delivering 136 PS (100 kW). The long-range battery version provides a maximum speed of 167 km/h, with the standard-range battery version offering 155 km/h.

Both powertrain versions deliver 395 Nm of immediate torque, ensuring the new Kona Electric is fun-to-drive with full power available from the first second.

After tyre improvements on the 2020 model year update, the 64 kWh battery version offers a class-leading range of 300 miles (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure - WLTP) on a single charge. Meanwhile, the 39.2 kWh model provides a range of up to 189 miles (WLTP).

The shift-by-wire system enables operation of the car simply by pressing buttons to switch driving modes. It also eliminates the routing space required for housing the mechanical linkages between a normal shifter and the transmission, providing additional storage space in the front of the car.

The Smart Adjustable Regenerative Braking system allows the car to automatically set the regenerative braking level, while paddle shifts behind the steering wheel enable the driver to adjust the intensity of the regenerative braking. The system recuperates additional energy when possible. Regenerative braking is maximised when keeping the left pedal held, allowing the driver to even bring the vehicle to a full stop – without the use of the brakes.

Charging the lithium-ion polymer battery from 10 to 80 per cent only takes about 47 minutes using a 100 kW direct current (DC) fast charger. It features an optional 10.5-kW three-phase on-board charger, allowing for significantly shorter charging times using public three-phase AC charging stations or with a private compatible wall box at home. Drivers also have the option of charging their car at a compatible regular household power socket using the ICCB-cable (in-cable control box).

Safety

Upgraded Hyundai SmartSense features that feature on the new Kona include Rear Cross-Traffic Collision- Avoidance Assist (RCCA) and Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA), which offer not just warnings to drivers, but also implement the brakes where necessary. RCCA works to avoid a collision when reversing, as the car’s sensors detect approaching vehicles from both sides, with the brakes applied if necessary. Meanwhile, BCA engages the car’s differential brakes to prevent an accident if another vehicle is detected near the rear corner and the driver attempts to change lanes.

Another feature new to this model is Leading Vehicle Departure Alert (LVDA), which alerts the driver if they do not react fast enough when the vehicle ahead of them starts moving. Further new safety features include Safe Exit Warning (SEW) and Rear Seat Alert (RSA). SEW warns passengers intending to exit the vehicle if it is not yet safe to do so. RSA is a door-checker feature that recognises if the rear doors have been opened prior to departing. When the drive is completed, the car alerts the driver if someone or something is in the back seat when they open the doors. Besides, the new car is also available with eCall, a feature which automatically alerts emergency services if the airbags are deployed, or the eCall button is pushed. (MT)

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Maruti Suzuki India Limited has launched the Smart Maintenance Plan (SMP), a flexible prepaid after‑sales service package aimed at giving existing customers a worry‑free ownership experience. The plan is open to all private and commercial vehicle owners.

Customers can subscribe at the time of vehicle purchase or later during a periodic maintenance visit to any authorised workshop. The plan offers various configurations, including labour‑only, parts and labour, commercial vehicle minor services, customer‑demanded services and engine oil with coolants. Optional wear‑and‑tear coverage for clutch and brake parts is also available.

Subscribers save at least 10 percent on labour costs, with extra savings on parts and consumables, while gaining protection against future inflation. Tenure and mileage options range from two years or 20,000 kilometres up to 10 years or 100,000 kilometres for private vehicles, and 10 years or 160,000 kilometres for commercial vehicles. The plan applies nationwide at any Maruti Suzuki authorised workshop.

Hisashi Takeuchi, Managing Director & CEO, Maruti Suzuki India Limited, said, “Since inception, our focus has been to deliver complete peace of mind and a truly joyful ownership experience to our customers. As customer expectations continue to evolve towards greater flexibility and personalised solutions, we are introducing the Smart Maintenance Plan. It is a prepaid service offering designed around individual driving needs. Customers can customise service packages while also protect themselves from future fluctuations in service costs by locking in maintenance expenses. Through this initiative, we aim to further enhance convenience, trust and long-term value for our customers.”

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French automotive major Renault is accelerating the international rollout of its high-value C-segment SUV, the Renault Boreal. Originally launched in Latin America out of the Curitiba production facility in Brazil, Renault has established a second major industrial hub for the vehicle at its OYAK Renault plant in Bursa, Türkiye.

The strategic expansion positions the Bursa facility to satisfy high domestic demand in Türkiye – Renault’s second-largest market globally – while serving as a primary export base for Eastern Europe, the Middle East, North Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa.

The Renault Boreal features dimensions that exceed conventional C-segment benchmarks, leaning into upper-tier spacing realities – 4.56 metre body length, 2.70 metre wheelbase and 630 litres of boot space, expandable up to 1,868 litres with the easy break rear seats completely folded down.

The exterior design language combines a high-riding stance with modern brand markers, highlighted by a body-colour front grille housing the backlit ‘Nouvel’R’ emblem. It features a sweeping roofline, prominent fender flares, a Niagara Concept-inspired LED headlight signature, 19-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, and a black-contrast panoramic glass roof.

The Turkish manufacturing rollout introduces a pragmatic mix of combustion and hybrid systems tailored for cross-continental regulatory and driving conditions. It can be had in full hybrid e-tech with multi-mode automatic transmission option that produces 160 hp of peak power, a WLTP range of 100 km on 4.8-litre fuel, 1.3 Turbo TCe with 6-speed wet dual-clutch (EDC) producing 145 hp of peak power, offering a WLTP range of 100 km with 6.6-lite of fuel consumption and a Hybrid E-Tech 4x4 (launch in Q4 CY2026) with multi-mode automatic transmission option producing a peak power of 150 hp.

The 160 hp full hybrid variant utilises the HR18-coded engine built locally by Oyak Horse. The system is engineered to prioritise urban efficiency, running in pure electric mode up to 80 percent of the time during stop-and-go city commutes. It supports pure electric acceleration at speeds up to 110 kmph.

Drivers can modulate performance metrics through the Multi-Sense system. In addition to Eco, Comfort, Sport and Perso settings, the vehicle features a new Smart Mode that automatically recalibrates steering weight, throttle response, ambient cabin lighting and exhaust/sound notes based on real-time road conditions.

The driver-oriented cabin integrates digital technology with premium family utilities, featuring a 10-inch digital driver instrument display sitting flush alongside a 10-inch openR link central multimedia touchscreen.

The Boreal deploys up to 25 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) depending on trim levels, highlighted by Active Driving Assist. This Level 2 system blends adaptive cruise control with automated Stop & Go routing and continuous lane-centring technologies.

Fabrice Cambolive, CEO, Renault Brand, said, “Boreal embodies Renault’s ambition to accelerate growth beyond Europe by delivering more value to our customers and strengthening our position in the strategic C-SUV segment. First launched in Latin America from our Brazilian hub, its expansion to Türkiye marks a new step in our international development. Boreal is also a strong illustration of Renault’s brand markers in action: Electrified by Passion with the introduction of our new E-Tech full hybrid technology; Designed to be Loved through its expressive design, elegant proportions and distinctive lighting signature that create an immediate emotional connection; People-First Technology with a seamless connected experience powered by Google, advanced driver assistance systems and intuitive onboard technologies; and Crafted Space through a spacious, versatile and comfortable interior designed around the needs of modern families. More broadly, Boreal demonstrates our ability to develop global voitures à vivre, produced close to their markets and thoughtfully adapted to local customer needs, combining desirability, innovation and everyday relevance for customers around the world.”

Ivan Segal, Renault Brand Head of Sales & Operations, added, “Boreal now enters a new phase of commercial deployment. Production in Bursa will enable us to address the Turkish market, Renault’s second-largest market worldwide, while opening up exports to a group of markets across Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa. With strong product appeal and a competitive industrial footprint, it will support our presence in the high-value C‑SUV segment across our international markets.”

Lionel Jaillet, CEO of Renault Group Türkiye, said, “We are very proud to introduce Boreal to the Turkish market. Being manufactured at our OYAK Renault facility in Bursa will both support domestic demand and strengthen Türkiye’s position in the global automotive ecosystem by contributing to our export targets.”
 

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Czech automaker Skoda Auto India has announced the expansion of its Rally Sport (RS) performance portfolio with the introduction of the all-new Kodiaq RS. Marking the first time Skoda’s performance badge has been applied to an SUV in the Indian market, the flagship model combines a three-row, seven-seat premium layout with a dedicated mechanical tune.

The company said official order books for the high-performance SUV are scheduled to open nationwide on 22 June 2026.

The core differentiator of the Kodiaq RS lies in its upgraded internal combustion hardware. The vehicle features a heavily revised iteration of the Volkswagen Group's EA888 engine architecture, tuned identically to the high-output configurations found in the global Octavia RS and Volkswagen Golf GTI.

The vehicle’s announcement follows a marketing campaign where Skoda Auto India’s entire active fleet – comprising the Kylaq, Kushaq, Slavia, standard Kodiaq and the limited-volume Octavia RS – established an official India and Asia Book of Record at the CoASTT circuit in Coimbatore. The group achieved the 'Fastest Multi-Car Relay of a Single Manufacturer on a Circuit' with a total combined lap time of 12:30.97.

The Kodiaq RS will arrive in the country via the Completely Built Unit (CBU) import route, serving as an elite flagship positioned above the locally assembled multi-tier Kodiaq lineup (Lounge, Sportline and L&K trims).

Ashish Gupta, Brand Director, Skoda Auto India, said, “The RS badge carries over 50 years of global performance legacy and a fiercely loyal following in India since the Octavia RS arrived more than two decades ago. The latest Octavia RS, launched last year, sold out in just 20 minutes, highlighting its cult status among enthusiasts. Now, we’re taking that legacy forward with the Kodiaq RS, our first-ever seven-seater in India to wear the iconic RS badge and the quickest Skoda yet in the country. It blends performance, space, and 4x4 capability into a bold, unmistakable expression of our racing DNA.”

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Kia India, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has announced the final leg of its multi-city cultural partnership with HYBE INDIA, introducing the ‘Kia Vibe Studio’ experience to the national capital.

Designed to target Gen Z creators and premium lifestyle audiences, the activation will serve as a marketing anchor for the brand's latest mass-premium SUV, the 2026 Kia Syros.

The HYBE INDIA Pop-Up Park is scheduled to take place on 13–14 June 2026 at Yashobhoomi (IACC) in New Delhi. The event combines automotive showcase infrastructure with music, fandom and multi-format creator engagement zones.

The centrepiece of the activation is the Kia Vibe Studio, a specialised content creation pod built directly inside the cabin of the 2026 Kia Syros.

The integration allows visitors to record, edit and instantly download high-definition performance and lip-sync videos. By converting the stationary vehicle's acoustic interior, ambient lighting and connected infotainment hardware into an active studio space, the campaign positions the SUV as a tech-driven platform for self-expression.

The event serves as a prominent touchpoint for the 2026 Kia Syros, which features several upgrades designed for the Indian market, including an enhanced design with a more rugged SUV stance, muscular body panels and sports-themed trim configurations. Expanded accessibility to automatic gearboxes, including the introduction of a high-demand diesel automatic (AT) variant.

The SUV is built on a platform engineered for a 5-star Bharat NCAP (BNCAP) crash safety rating, featuring an optimised distribution of connected tech features across lower and mid-tier trims.

Following the public pop-up park event, HYBE INDIA will conduct on-ground talent auditions on 14 June 2026 at the Shangri-La Eros, Delhi. The talent scout marks part of an international entertainment initiative aimed at discovering, training, and launching India’s first global girl group under the K-pop blueprint.

The Delhi showcase concludes the regional ‘Pop-Up Park’ phase of the 10-city marketing campaign, which completed consecutive runs in Guwahati, Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad and Bengaluru.

While the experiential park footprint concludes in Delhi, the talent pipeline will continue across secondary markets. Auditions are scheduled to advance into Ahmedabad, Kolkata, and Chandigarh, allowing Kia India to sustain its brand engagement with youth demographics nationwide.

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