By T Murrali

The recently launched New Jaguar XE is giving the much needed fillip to Jaguar Land Rover India as the car plugs the gaps its previous products had. Available in the S & SE variants the new car comes with 184 kW Ingenium Turbocharged Petrol powertrain and 132 kW Ingenium Turbocharged Diesel powertrain options.

Rohit Suri, President and Managing Director, Jaguar Land Rover India Ltd (JLRIL), said, “The Jaguar XE has always been a distinctly designed executive sports saloon that provides exhilarating performance. The New Jaguar XE is an illustration of how enhancements in its design, technology and driving dynamics can rewrite the rules. We are confident that our Jaguar fans and discerning customers will be delighted with our latest offering.” Going forward, the company plans to launch I-Pace during this calendar; Land Rover Defender will follow. Defying the slow down the company has increased its market share in the premium segment to 16 percent, he said. 

Like all Jaguars the new XE distinctively manages to catch the eye from its muscular stance and sculpted bonnet to the new front and rear bumpers, larger front grille and slimmer LED headlamps and tail lamps. It is 4800mm long, 1,416mm high and 1,598mm wide. Its wheel base is 2,835mm and it has a boot volume 403 litres. The turning radius of the new car is 11.22 metres. The New Jaguar XE appears wider and lower than before, with large front apertures, bold graphics and muscular form, all alluding to the car’s performance intent and advanced aerodynamics.

New all-LED headlights with a striking ‘J’ blade daytime running light signature and Animated Directional Indicators create a more purposeful look. The rear of the car also features a new bumper design and slender all-LED tail lights with updated signature graphics which accentuate the visual width of the car, while the 17 inch wheels give it a more planted appearance.

Though all these elements give the sedan a sporty look the design is accentuated further with several nuances in exterior and interiors. To make a 4-door saloon, which is as fun to drive as a sports car, is no mean feat for Jaguar designers, inspired by the F-TYPE - its high-performance car - packed with enhancements, innovations and technology. Rewriting the rules of how a compact saloon should behave, it has all the elements Jaguar is known for - style, precision engineering and offering a tangible sense of excitement.

Driving in a pre-determined circuit the new XE gives a feel of sitting behind the wheel of a sports car, comfortably cocooned by its wrap-around dashboard. The soft grain leather steering wheel, form-hugging 14-way adjustable front seats and impeccable attention to every detail tells how everything is so pleasingly uncluttered and considerately functional.

A refreshed cockpit-style interior offers improved levels of comfort, and the raised centre console adds to its sportiness. Everything revolves around the driver as it was conceived with him in mind. The SportShift Selector, JaguarDrive Control and Touch Pro are central to its seamless design. Once inside the car, you can easily connect with the car straight away with the pulsing start button.

Powertrain

Jaguar’s range of engines features innovative technologies to provide lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, without compromising on performance. The new XE is powered by the British-built, Turbocharged Petrol or Diesel engines, both made of lightweight aluminium alloy which, combined with advanced low-friction technologies, deliver refined, efficient and engaging driving experience.

The 2.0 4-cylinder diesel engine powers the vehicle to reach a top speed of 228km; it reaches 100 kmph from zero in 8.1 seconds. Mated with automatic transmission the 1,999 cc engine delivers a maximum power of 132 kW at 4,000 rpm. The high-pressure common rail direct fuel injection, exhaust variable cam timing and a high-efficiency water-cooled intercooler work in combination for clean and efficient combustion; 430 Nm of torque is delivered over a wide engine speed range from 1,750 to 2,500 rpm, delivering the required performance and acceleration. The engine features a variable geometry turbocharger that adapts to the changing flow of exhaust gases for high torque throughout the rev range, and responsiveness that is uniform, progressive and reduces lag.

The 1,999 cc 4-cylinder petrol engine mated with automatic transmission delivers maximum power of 814 kW at 5,500 rpm gives a maximum torque of 365 Nm at 1,500 – 4,000 rpm. Top speed is 250kmph, 0 to 100 in 6.5sec. The intelligent Continuously Variable Valve Lift (CVVL) system varies the extent to which inlet valves are opened, reducing engine pumping losses. This lets the engine 'breathe' with maximum efficiency, optimising power and torque. CVVL works in combination with dual independent variable cam timing for ultimate operating flexibility, resulting in excellent power and fuel economy across the rev range. The twin-scroll turbocharger is fed by an integrated exhaust manifold which increases the transfer of energy to the turbine – significantly reducing turbo lag and improving engine response.

The company has created a range of sophisticated technologies which allow the user to modify the vehicle and enjoy the driving experience when required. JaguarDrive Control allows to select from Comfort, Eco, Dynamic, and Rain, Ice, Snow Mode. Each Mode has its own tailor-made programme which alters different parameters, such as engine and transmission response, steering feel, parasitic load management or traction and stability control.

Designing and building a sports car like XE was possible with a lightweight aluminium chassis and double wishbone front suspension that enables improved levels of handling and road holding, delivering an electrifying driving experience. Unusually for an executive sports saloon, it also features a sophisticated ‘Integral Link’ rear suspension, which provides sharp response and handling, while still retaining a refined and luxurious ride.

In order to help XE tackle winding roads, there's intelligent Torque Vectoring by Braking technology. Maximising control across all surfaces, the car continually monitors and balances the distribution of torque to improve both the grip and steering of the vehicle. Assisting with its stability, the system reduces understeer by applying the brake to the inside wheels, forcing greater torque to outer wheels. For example, on tight turns, it applies the brake to the inside wheel and directs more rotating force from the engine to the wheel with the most grip. The result is a unique combination of sports car-like agility, more consistent road holding, and a feeling of added confidence during drives.

A lightweight design reduces both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, without compromising on durability and reliability. The weight saving technology assists with achieving a maximum speed of up to 250 kmph. Jaguar XE’s lightweight aluminium intensive body structure continues to play a major role in the car’s agile handling, exceptional safety and efficiency. Aluminium makes up 75 percent of the body and combines with the proven rear wheel drive system, double wishbone front and integral link rear suspension to offer a superior drive.

Connected Technologies

With increasing requirements to get connected to the outside world while driving, XE is loaded with a suite of integrated technologies as standard. The high-definition 10 inch Touch Pro personalised home screen gives all the help and information when required. The interactive side panel for multitasking together with a multimedia connection helps to access the music library. A dose of artificial intelligence makes the XE even listen with a voice recognition system for hands-free requests such as ‘call home’ or ‘find nearest fuel station.’

Interactive Driver Display uses high-definition, crystal-clear graphics to show 3D maps, vehicle settings, contacts and media options. These can be controlled from the multi-function steering wheel.

The standard remote allows to interact with the XE from anywhere with a data connection via the InControl Remote app. From anywhere in the world, it can give information from fuel levels to door and window status, enables to set the perfect cabin temperature in advance, and locate and secure the car from a distance. Smartphone Pack that comes as standard feature, is perfect for mobile phone screen sharing, and makes it easy to use an interactive set of apps through XE's Touch Pro system. It helps to stay connected to smartphone while in the car, and use any compatible apps like Spotify.

Another standard feature is Connected Navigation Pro, a navigation system which allows the user enjoy a continuously seamless experience, while making journeys easier and less stressful. It helps to plan the route, search surrounding locations, get travel tips, understand traffic situations, and even share the estimated time of arrival with friends. The mobile phone can be charged by simply resting it on the wireless device charger in front of the SportShift Selector. This technology is new to Jaguar, and XE is the first of its cars to feature it.

Other features include Online Pack – comprising 4G WiFi Hotspot, Live Apps and Smart Settings, adding to in-car experience so that the driver and passengers can enjoy the journey whilst staying connected to the world. Live Apps – for access to ‘live’ information services such as Weather Watch, Flight Tracker, News and Sports. Other helpful features include a Calendar and Online Media for access to Deezer and TuneIn accounts. Smart Settings, featuring artificial intelligence algorithms help XE learn the car user’s habits and tastes, and predicts seating, climate and music preferences. It'll even change the media channel at a certain time or on a specific day of the week.

Technology Predicts  

XE has a host of technologies that can detect potential trouble and help keep the driver alert, safe and comfortable. The Cruise Control and Speed Limiter keep the car at a set speed specified by the driver thereby helping him to stick to local speed limits. Driver Condition Monitor identifies fatigue levels based on driver behaviour and the length and time of the journey. It can even alert the driver to take a break. There is a rear camera for improved visibility when reversing, and a front and rear parking aid to help manoeuvre in and out of tight spaces. Lane Keep Assist detects when the vehicle is unintentionally drifting out of the lane and applies a corrective torque to the steering wheel, encouraging the driver to guide the vehicle back.

Planet-friendly

The Eco mode in XE encourages more efficient and environment-friendly driving. It also helps to cut fuel consumption by moderating energy demand placed on the engine by other systems, such as Climate Control. A display on the Touchscreen keeps the driver in the loop as well as providing some helpful driving tips.

The new XE comes equipped with the latest safety technologies to detect dangerous situations, and then actively respond to such potential situations. Dynamic Stability Control, for instance, detects the first signs of oversteer or understeer, helping to maintain a stable drive. Besides, it will safeguard the vehicle even in low-grip conditions. Engine drag torque control helps prevent wheel slip in adverse weather by providing a gentle push to the wheels where needed.

The premium LED headlights with signature DRL (daytime running lights) are standard on XE. The Auto High Beam Assist provides great visibility. The iconic chicane-shaped LED tail lights are sleek and elegant, wrapping themselves around from the side to the rear. The sleek tail lights are also LED, with the same dramatic animated directional Indicators as the headlights.

The Jaguar range in India includes XE (starting at INR 44.98 lakh), XF (starting at INR  49.78 lakh), F-PACE (starting at INR  63.78 lakh), XJ (starting at INR  111.30 lakh) and F-TYPE (starting at INR  90.93 lakh), ex-showroom. The vehicles are available through 27 authorized outlets across India. (MT)

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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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Italian supercar manufacturer Automobili Lamborghini has been awarded the ‘Red Dot: Best of the Best 2026’ accolade for its ultra-limited, ‘few-off’ hypercar, the Fenomeno. Honoured in the Product Design category, the prize represents the highest distinction in the global Red Dot evaluation, reserved for avant-garde projects that establish new benchmarks in visionary aesthetics and contemporary engineering.

The victory coincides with a milestone chapter for the brand, as the car was designed to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Lamborghini Centro Stile. The official award ceremony is scheduled to take place on 7 July 2026, at the Aalto Theater in Essen, Germany.

The Fenomeno introduces an evolved corporate design language dubbed ‘hyper-elegant’ design, which strips back complex body panels to achieve formal purity while maximising functional on-track aerodynamics.

The supercar’s front fascia is heavily inspired by motorsport architecture. The front end utilises large racing-derived air intakes and a completely revised daytime running light signature modelled after the bull's horns found in the traditional Lamborghini corporate emblem. It subtly integrates the brand's iconic Y-shaped visual motifs, seamlessly connecting a low-slung carbon fibre front splitter to the headlamps.

The side profile and silhouette are defined by a single, continuous silhouette line running nose-to-tail, the design pays homage to the extended long-tail aerodynamics of the track-only Essenza SCV12. The car was displayed in a launch livery of Giallo Crius, a vibrant yellow hue that emphasises the vehicle’s upper body volumes against high-contrast, performance-oriented exposed carbon fibre elements below.

Beneath its custom carbon fibre bodywork, the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) Fenomeno utilises a thoroughly reworked mechanical architecture derived from the Revuelto, establishing itself as the fastest road-going vehicle in Lamborghini’s history.

The vehicle balances its extreme power-to-weight ratio through specialized hardware, including an advanced 6D motion sensor that measures acceleration across six axes, race-derived firm dampers, and high-end CCM-R Plus carbon-ceramic brakes adapted directly from Lamborghini’s SC63 endurance race car.

The Fenomeno features a 6.5-litre naturally aspirated V12 engine with 3 electric motors, which produce a combined 1,080 CV (1,065 hp) – with the internal combustion engine contributing a record 835 CV on its own, making it Lamborghini's most powerful V12 ever produced. The vehicle can accelerate from zero to 100 kmph in a claimed 2.4 seconds, while a zero to 200 kmph can be attained in 6.7 seconds. It has a top speed of over 350 kmph. It features a class-leading weight-to-power ratio of 1.64 kg/CV.

The Fenomeno is strictly limited to 29 units globally for the coupe version (complemented by an even rarer 15-unit Roadster variant).

Mitja Borkert, Design Director, Automobili Lamborghini, said, “This valuable and renowned recognition confirms the direction of the design DNA we are shaping with the team at Lamborghini Centro Stile, and underscores our future strategy. Fenomeno is a manifesto of style that expands our design language once again in an unexpected way, going beyond expectations and continuing the bloodline of our successful few-off cars in an athletic and elegant way."

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