The Czech marque also showcased the flagship SUV Kodiaq 2.0 TSI, the new Karoq 1.5 TSI, the Laurin and Klement as well as the Sportline variants of the facelifted Superb, the powerful Octavia RS 245, and the Monte Carlo and the Matte Concept of the Rapid 1.0 TSI. To commemorate its 125 year anniversary, Škoda Auto presented also the luxurious 1948 Superb OHV.

Zac Hollis, Brand Director, Škoda Auto India, said, “This is a very special year for the Škoda Auto family. We are celebrating our 125 year anniversary. The Vision IN having drawn its inspiration from this rich history and heritage blurs the line between beauty and functionality. It is a vehicle tailored to meet the needs and aspirations of the Indian subcontinent and testifies an inter-play of the Czech Bohemian glass work as well as the traditional Kalamkari art. We are confident that this mid-size SUV, when launched in 2021, will be a top contender for prospective buyers.”

Vision IN

Featuring a distinctive front and large bonnet, the Vision IN’s Škoda SUV family resemblance is clear at first glance. The wide grille features striking double slats; both the frame and the slats are made of lead crystal, and their elegance is additionally enhanced by eye-catching LED illumination. The two-part LED headlights also exhibit crystalline structures. In the upper part, which reaches as far as the grille, stunning glass elements create the LED dipped beam, LED high beam and an L-shaped LED module for the daytime running lights and indicators. The LED fog lights are arranged below this.

The interior of the concept study is characterised by the new design language. The elongated dashboard picks up the symmetrical contours of the radiator grille and incorporates air vents featuring the brand-typical SUV design. The designers have also broken new ground when devising the decorative trim that adorns the dashboard and have drawn inspiration from Indian culture.

The Vision IN’s modern technological comforts also include the individually configurable Virtual Cockpit and shift-by-wire technology. The gear selector is no longer connected to the 7 speed DSG mechanically. Instead, it relays which gear has been chosen electronically. The classic selector lever has been replaced with a small rocker switch for operation. The convenient electromechanical parking brake means the familiar handbrake lever is also no longer required. Alongside wood and natural leather, the Vision IN makes use of vegan and recycled materials.

It is powered by a modern and efficient petrol engine. The 1.5 TSI delivering 110 kW (150 PS) transfers its maximum torque of 250 Nm to the front wheels via a 7 speed DSG. It takes the concept study 8.7 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h. Its top speed is 195 km/h.

Other Offerings

Alongside the Karoq featuring a 1.5 TSI engine with a power output of 110 kW (150 PS) as a newcomer to the Indian market, Škoda showcased a Superb L&K and a Kodiaq L&K, each fitted with a 2.0 TSI delivering 140 kW (190 PS), at the Auto Expo 2020. The sporty Octavia RS 245 producing 180 kW (245 PS), the Rapid 1.0 TSI in the Monte Carlo trim level and Matte Concept, as well as a 2.0 TDI Superb Sportline 140 kW (190 PS) round off the Škoda models were on display at the exhibition. The company exhibited a 1948 Superb OHV also at its stand. (MT)

German passenger vehicle manufacturer Volkswagen has announced the introduction of the Tiguan R-Line in India. The SUV features R-themed design elements, updated aerodynamics and enhanced functionality.

The Tiguan R-Line includes LED Plus headlights, a horizontal LED strip at the rear and 19-inch Coventry alloy wheels with diamond-turned surfaces. The front design incorporates a glass-covered horizontal strip and radiator grille openings positioned towards the outer edges of the front bumper.

Inside, the SUV gets an updated cockpit layout with R-Line inserts on the front sport seats and an illuminated R logo on the dashboard. The cabin includes ambient lighting with 30 colour options for the dashboard and door trims. A panoramic sunroof is also part of the design. Other features include an illuminated moulding between headlamps, rear combination lamps and illuminated door handle recesses. Pedals are finished in brushed stainless steel and the vehicle is equipped with roof rails and chrome-trimmed air intakes.

The Tiguan R-Line is equipped with seats that feature a massage function and adjustable lumbar support. It also includes Air Care Climatronic (3-zone), Park Assist Plus with Park Distance Control and wireless charging for two smartphones.

TATA.ev, the electric vehicle subsidiary of Tata Motors, has launched its electric vehicle portfolio in Mauritius in collaboration with automobile distributor Allied Motors.

With this, the company’s popular EV offerings the Tiago.ev, Punch.ev and Nexon.ev will be available for customers in Mauritius.

Yash Khandelwal, Head International Business, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility, said, “We are thrilled to introduce our electric vehicle portfolio in Mauritius, marking our first international expansion beyond the SAARC region. With the government’s strong commitment to sustainable mobility, Mauritius holds strategic importance in our EV journey. As a pioneer of the EV revolution in India and a proven success in SAARC markets, Tata.ev is well-positioned to support the country’s transition to electric mobility. Our diverse range of EVs—spanning multiple body styles and battery options—combined with an unmatched ownership experience and the strong partnership of Allied Motors, sets the stage for a transformative shift in Mauritius’ automotive landscape.”

James Ngan, Managing Director, Allied Motors, Mauritius, said, “Our partnership with Tata.ev is a game-changer for Mauritius, bringing an exceptional range of electric vehicles to a country that is ready to embrace sustainable and innovative mobility solutions. The new Tata.ev portfolio offers a perfect combination of power, efficiency, and advanced technology, giving consumers access to world-class electric mobility. Backed by our extensive service and after-sales support, we assure customers of a seamless ownership experience. This is just the beginning, and we are excited about the positive impact these EVs will have in revolutionising Mauritius’ automotive landscape.”

Hyundai Motor India, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers in the country, has made strong headway in the country’s stock markets.

The carmaker which got listed on 22 October 2024, has now found its stock being included on NIFTY Next 50, NIFTY 100, NIFTY 500, S&P BSE 500 and other key capital market indices.

Unsoo Kim, Managing Director, Hyundai Motor India, said, “As a listed entity, we are elated to cross yet another important milestone. By becoming a part of prestigious Indian capital market indices such as the NIFTY Next 50 and S&P BSE 500, we have fortified HMIL’s standing in the Indian stock exchanges, reinforcing its market presence and credibility. As India grows, HMIL will continue to grow intrinsically with it, along with a constant focus on driving innovation, improving operational efficiencies, and making strategic investments that will strengthen our business outlook and contribute to the growth of the Indian economy.”

Interestingly, Hyundai Motor India’s debut on the stock exchange was also one of the largest Initial Public Offerings (IPO) in the country.

File photo: Hyundai Listing Ceremony

Maruti Suzuki India, the largest carmaker in the country, has announced a major investment of INR 74.1 billion towards a new under-construction plant with a capacity to produce 250,000 units per year.

This new facility will complement the company’s existing facility at Kharkoda plant, which went on stream in February 2025.

The new facility that is expected to go live by 2029 will expand the company’s manufacturing capabilities to 750,000 units per year. Maruti Suzuki India is optimistic that the demand for made-in-India passenger vehicles will continue both in the domestic as well as export markets.

The investment will be done through the company’s internal accruals.

Furthermore, Dr Tapan Sahoo, currently ED – Engineering will take on the additional responsibility of Digital Enterprise vertical.

On the other hand, the company announced that it has appointed Sunil Kakkar as an Director (Corporate Planning) for a period of three years till 31 March 2028.