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)

Tata Motors, one of India’s leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has launched the limited Stealth Edition for its Harrier and Safari SUVs.

Marking 27 years of the Tata Safari, the Stealth Edition will be limited to just 2,700 units for both the vehicles. They feature all Matte Black finish, R19 Black Alloy Wheels and a Stealth mascot. On the inside, the first- and second-row ventilated seats get Carbon-Noir Theme (2nd row only in Safari) and voice-assisted dual-zone automatic climate control system.

A 31.24 cm Harman Touchscreen Infotainment System, Arcade App Store for entertainment, Alexa Home 2 Car for remote connect, Inbuilt Map my India for navigation, a 26.03 cm Digital Instrument Cluster and JBL 10-speaker audio system with Harman AudioworX, Sliding Arm-rest and Sprinkler Nozzle are on the offer too.

They continue to be powered by the Kryotec 2.0-litre BS6 Phase 2 Turbocharged Engine, delivering 170PS through a 6-speed automatic transmission. The Stealth Edition features Level 2+ ADAS with 21 functionalities including Intelligent Speed Assist feature (first time in segment), 7 airbags and ESP with 17 safety functions.

The Harrier Stealth edition can be had with price starting INR 2.50 million (ex-showroom Delhi), while the Safari Stealth edition (6- and 7-seater) is priced at INR 2.57 million (ex-showroom Delhi).

Vivek Srivatsa, Chief Commercial Officer, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility, said, “Tata Motors has long been at the forefront of the SUV segment in India, with innovation deeply embedded in its DNA. The Tata Safari, which introduced the concept of a lifestyle SUV to the Indian market, stands as a testament to this spirit of pioneering excellence. With 27 years of unbeatable legacy, the Tata Safari has continually evolved, and the launch of the Stealth Edition is a salute to the same. This special edition is a premium, exclusive release, with only 2,700 units of the enigmatic Stealth Matte Black finish being made available. The STEALTH Edition is more than just an SUV — it's a statement of prestige, adventure, and capability, elevating it to an aspirational collector’s car that will be coveted by enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. Owning a Stealth Edition isn’t just about possessing an exceptional car; it's about securing a piece of automotive history that everyone will aspire to have in their garage.’’

Kia India, a leading passenger vehicles manufacturer, has unveiled the refreshed 2025 Seltos SUV with prices starting INR 1.11 million (ex-showroom India).

The company has also introduced eight new variants across the Smartstream G1.5 and D1.5 CRDi VGT engine options. This means customers can now choose between 24 trims across different variants.

The HTE(O) variant, priced at INR 1.11 million, includes an 8-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth connectivity, a 6-speaker audio system and a steering wheel with audio controls. It also features a rearview mirror, a connected tail lamp similar to the HTK design, DRL/PSTN LED lamps, a rear combi LED and an auto-control headlamp for optimal lighting. All-door illuminated power windows further add convenience.

The HTK(O) variant, starting at INR 1.29 million, includes a panoramic sunroof, 16-inch alloy wheels, a roof rail and a rear wiper with washer & defogger. It also comes with cruise control, all-door illuminated power windows, a mood lamp with sound integration and a smart key with a motion sensor.

The HTK+(O) variant, priced at INR 1.43 million, comes with 17-inch alloy wheels and an EPB IVT with the Zbara Cover AT. It features MFR LED headlamps with a turn signal LED sequence, LED fog lamps, a black radiator grille, auto-fold ORVMs and a parcel tray. Other additions include a chrome belt line, an artificial leather knob, a mood lamp, and a smart key with a motion sensor.

Hardeep Singh Brar, Sr. VP and National Head, Sales and Marketing, Kia India, said, "Kia began its journey in India with the Seltos, which has played a key role in establishing the brand. The Seltos continues to be the largest contributor to our overall sales due to the value it delivers to customers. We are committed to continually updating the model to meet the evolving needs of today’s consumers. With the addition of new variants for the Smartstream G1.5 engine, we are offering even greater value. These new variants will further boast a strong demand”.

Skoda Auto India, a leading passenger vehicles manufacturer, aims to make smarter inroads in the country’s fast-growing passenger vehicles segment.

The company recently introduced the Skoda Kylaq, its first-ever sub-4-metre SUV, which is expected to bring incremental volumes for the Czech automaker in India. And now to further drive and popularise the company’s product offerings, it has signed its first-ever 'brand superstar'  – popular Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh – in the country. 

Petr Janeba, Brand Director, Skoda Auto India, said, “When the Kylaq was premiered, I promised that, ‘Picture abhi baaki hai’. As we celebrate 25 years in India, we have committed to driving into a new era here, which goes beyond launching world-class products. It revolves around revamping every aspect of the business, including the way we engage with our customers and fans. Around the world, and more so in India, cars and movies generate emotions that are unparalleled and bring people together. And so for the first time in our history in India, I am proud to announce Ranveer Singh as the first-ever ‘Brand Superstar’ for Skoda Auto India. Being a powerhouse of talent and energy, on and off-screen, Ranveer‘s persona strongly reflects our passion and ethos. This announcement comes at a time when we are celebrating 130 years of global excellence. There is a lot more this partnership is going to bring for our products, our network and our customers, as we look to strengthen our position as the most important market for Skoda outside Europe.”

Skoda Auto India has released the first poster featuring Ranveer Singh along with Petr Janeba and the Kylaq SUV. It also plans to launch a brand-centric film by end-March, which will provide an opportunity to fans and customers to meet Ranveer Singh and the management of Skoda Auto India later in the year.

“I am thrilled to be Skoda Auto India’s first-ever brand superstar. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to excellence, and I look forward to contributing to the growth of Skoda Auto in India. Skoda Auto has a diverse and exciting product portfolio that caters to both automotive enthusiasts and a wider customer base in India’s growing market. With a strong legacy and an iconic range of products, the brand continues to set high standards in the automotive industry,” said Ranveer Singh.

Skoda Auto considers India its most important market outside Europe. It also plans to sell 100,000 cars annually by 2026. Furthermore, it aims to expand its sales and service touchpoints to 350 by end-2025 from the present 277.

Also read: Skoda Auto India Showcases Kylaq, Kodiaq, Superb and More at Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025

Yokohama India has started manufacturing 20-inch tyres at its production facility in Bahadurgarh, Haryana. This action was taken in response to the increased demand for tyres with a wider tread, which was fuelled by the growing popularity of SUVs and the luxury market.

Following its recent decision to localise the manufacture of 19-inch tyres, Yokohama India has expanded, demonstrating its continued dedication to producing top-notch goods. High-performance tyres like the Geolandar X-CV (G057), made for luxury SUVs, are among the high-end tyre options in this category. With its sophisticated silica compounds, asymmetric tread pattern and two-ply sidewall, the X-CV offers improved grip, durability and a smooth driving experience. It may now be purchased through the vast countrywide network of more than 3,000 merchants operated by Yokohama India.

Gaurav Mahajan, Head of Marketing at Yokohama India, said, “With improving road infrastructure and advancement in vehicle geometry, passenger segment vehicles are now opting for larger-inch tyres. Higher inch tyres also offer better handling and safety as they could accommodate advance braking systems. By expanding our local production capabilities, we are future-proofing our offerings – now with the capability to manufacture up to 24-inch tyres – ensuring that we continue to serve the premium segment with cutting-edge, high-performance products.”