The new modern-day SUVs, in true terms, are nothing more than enhanced cars. They mostly offer better ground clearance, and some even offer an all-wheel-drive system. But you can’t think of doing serious off-roading with them as they are simply not made for that; at best they can blaze through dirt or a gravel track. Well, Jeep has decided to bring some seriousness to the SUV segment by launching one of the most iconic off-roaders in the world, the Wrangler. Jeep India has started assembling it at FCA’s Ranjangaon manufacturing plant near Pune and has become only the second plant in the world to roll out this 4x4 after the Toledo factory in Ohio, USA. The Wrangler is available in two versions—the Unlimited and the Rubicon. The former is priced at INR 5,390,000 and the latter at INR 5,790,000, both ex-showroom India. The new completely knocked down unit (CKD) is now almost INR 1,000,000 cheaper than the previous completely built unit (CBU) versions.

Commenting on the launch of the locally assembled Wrangler, Dr Partha Datta, Jeep India Managing Director, said, “Indian customers have always desired the legendary Jeep Wrangler, and I am pleased that today we are able to bring this to them, assembled in India. We have extended our points of sale and service for the locally assembled Wrangler to 26 across the country. I’m also happy to announce that we have introduced a MOPAR-original suite of over 120 Wrangler accessories and value packs which customers can order at our dealerships.”

Dr Datta added, “Jeep Wrangler’s capability is unmatched because our engineers always have and continue to test and improve our 4x4 technology to make it a global benchmark. This capability is complemented with a timeless design, modern comforts, the latest in infotainment technology and open-air freedom.”

The Wrangler has a colossal presence with its typical squarish design, the classic round headlamps, which are now all-LED, the imposing seven-slate front grille, raised wheel arches housing daytime running lights (DRLs) along with LED indicators and, of course, the solid-looking chunky bumper with LED front foglamps. The Wrangler is only available as a five-seater in India, but it comes in both hardtop and open-roof options.

Both the variants are powered by a 2-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that has an output of 265 bhp at 5,150 rpm and torque of 400 Nm at 3,000 rpm. It comes standard with an 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission.

Wrangler Rubicon

The top variant, the Rubicon gets state-of-the-art RockTrac Full Time 4x4 technology. This sophisticated system is operated by an electronic clutch which engages and disengages automatically depending on the amount of traction required. With a mechanical shifter, the gear range can be changed from 2H to 4L, 4H Auto and Part-Time 4L. 4H Part-Time and 4L modes. The Rubicon gets a Dana 44 front axle, which is ideal for off-roading due to its increased thickness of the axle tube, making it rigid and durable. To ensure that off-road trails don’t spring a nasty surprise at the Rubicon, Jeep has also installed TruLok electric front- and rear-axle lockers to neutralise any extreme condition.

The Front Sway Bar in the Rubicon can be electronically disconnected, allowing the front suspension to travel up to an additional 30 percent. With a press of a button, the Offroad+ feature lets the Rubicon adapt to different terrains by making adjustments to the throttle, Selec-Speed Control which uses hill-ascent and hill-descent control, traction control and transmission shift mode. It also sports a crawl ratio of 77:1 with a 4:1 low range ratio. The Rubicon gets 17-inch alloy wheels for extreme off-roading conditions and thick gauge boron steel underbody skid plates to protect its underbody.

Wrangler Unlimited

The Unlimited is a capable off-roader and can tackle the urban jungle as well.

Equipped with the Selec-Tran 4x4 system, the Wrangler Unlimited can automatically switch from 2WD to 4WD depending on the requirement of the conditions. It also sends power to the wheels with the optimum traction to overcome challenging driving situations. Like the Rubicon, it also comes with the Smart Lock feature for constant 4WD mode when needed. The Unlimited version comes with 18-inch aluminium alloys with all-season tyres.

The Rubicon boasts a ground clearance of 217 mm, while the Unlimited offers 214 mm. While both the variants have the same water wading capability of 760 mm (at 8 km/h), approach and departure angles at 36 degrees and 21 degrees, but Rubicon’s break-over angle is one degree superior to the Unlimited at 21 degrees.

Both the Wrangler models offer an array of features like an 8.4- inch touchscreen that supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 7-inch multi-information display in the instrument cluster that reads out active safety and security features, vehicle speed, navigation, radio information as well as full-framed removable doors, a three-piece modular hardtop and a fold-flat front windshield. Both the models come equipped with two USB ports on the dashboard, another one in the centre armrest and additional ports for rear passengers. For additional practicality and safety, both the glove box and centre console are lockable.

In India, the Wrangler’s direct competition is the Land Rover Defender, which is available in both petrol and diesel and is priced from INR 7,657,000 lakhs to INR 11,200,000, ex-showroom India. (MT)

Mumbai-based automotive major Mahindra Group has rejigged its top leadership team to further strengthen the company’s market position.

The company has announced that Hemant Sikka, currently President of Farm Equipment Sector will take over the role of MD & CEO of Mahindra Logistics. He will succeed Ram Swaminathan who has stepped down to pursue other professional interests.

Furthermore, Veejay Nakra, currently President Automotive Division, has been appointed the President for Farm Equipment Business (FEB), which is among Mahindra’s large and profitable businesses with a ROCE of over 60 percent. The company sees huge opportunity to further grow the business and expand globally. He will continue to report to Rajesh Jejurikar, Executive Director & CEO, Auto & Farm Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra .

In addition, R Velusamy, currently, President Automotive Technology and Product Development, will take on the role of President of the Automotive Business (AB). He will be tasked to prepare the Automotive Business with technology innovation and lead opportunities for growth in domestic as well as global markets.

Mahindra has announced that it will now integrate the SUV and LCV (less than 3.5 tonne) business under one leadership to make the business more agile and collaborative, from engineering products to faster time to market. He will also report to Jejurikar.

Dr Anish Shah, Group CEO & Managing Director, Mahindra & Mahindra, said, “These leadership changes ensure that we have strong, proven leaders at the helm of our key businesses. Their experience will enable us to drive significant growth and create greater value for our customers and shareholders. We thank Ram for his contributions to the company, and wish Hemant, Veejay, and Velu the very best for the journey ahead.”

Hyundai Motor India, a leading manufacturer of passenger vehicles in the country, has has announced that every second vehicle it sold in India came with a sunroof.

The company shared that in FY2025, 53.2 percent of the Hyundai vehicles sold in the country was equipped with sunroof, what’s more the share of SUVs also increased to 68.5 percent from the earlier 63.2 percent a year ago.

At present, sunroof is offered as an optional feature in 12 out of 14 models in the Hyundai Motor India portfolio, which includes the Exter, Venue, Creta, Alcazar, Tucson Verna, Aura, Grand i10 NIOS, i20 and the Ioniq 5.

On the other hand, the demand for ADAS-equipped models grew to 14.3 percent from 6.7 percent a year ago.

Tarun Garg, Whole-Time Director and Chief Operating Officer, Hyundai Motor India, said, “FY2024-25 has been a landmark year for Hyundai Motor India. The fact that two out of every third vehicle sold by us in India was an SUV is a testament to our deep understanding of Indian customers and our commitment to delivering innovation, safety and style. The doubling of ADAS variant contribution and growing popularity of sunroof-equipped models reflects the rising aspirations of our customers and their readiness to embrace global technologies. We shall continue to march forward with a focus on customer delight, offering products that are future-ready, feature-rich, and engineered for India.”

German luxury car brand Mercedes-Benz India has expanded its footprint in the southern market with the inauguration of three new state-of-the-art facilities across Bengaluru and Hyderabad, reinforcing its customer-centric ‘Go to Customer’ strategy.

In Bengaluru, the luxury carmaker opened a sprawling 2S (Sales & Service) facility with a Delivery Bay by long-standing partner Sundaram Motors on International Airport Road. The 47,000 sqft facility, built to Mercedes-Benz’s global MAR20X luxury retail standards, features 10 dedicated service bays, a Premium Aero Hub and a Mercedes Cafe. It also offers fast EV charging and quick repair zones, enhancing convenience and sustainability.

Hyderabad saw the addition of two new 2S facilities. Mahavir Motors inaugurated a 39,000 sqft outlet in a high-net-worth residential area near the city’s growing IT corridor. The facility, equipped with 19 service bays, combines digital interfaces with personalised service zones and eco-friendly features.

Landmark Cars also launched a new 12,000 sqft service centre in Hyderabad with six service bays. The facility offers specialised vehicle servicing, body paint work and Premier Express service for priority customers.

These openings mark a significant investment in customer engagement and service infrastructure in key southern metros, aligning with rising aspirations and demand for luxury vehicles in India.

Santosh Iyer, MD & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, said, “We are delighted to inaugurate 3 state-of-the-art luxury facilities in Bengaluru and Hyderabad, reaffirming our commitment to delivering the best customer experience and deepening our presence in these key markets. These modern facilities reflect Mercedes-Benz’s vision of offering a world-class luxury retail experience, backed by digital innovation, modern luxury design and personalised customer consultation. We continue to invest in our luxury retail experience, with sharp focus on elevating customer experiences by creating new standards in luxury automotive retail. We are creating desire for the brand not only in emerging markets, but also in key metropolises like Bengaluru and Hyderabad, where Mercedes-Benz has a strong brand presence.”

Czech automaker Skoda Auto India, which completes its silver jubilee in India, has launched its all-new Kodiaq premium SUV at prices starting INR 4.68 million.

Powered by a 2.0 TSI engine, the Kodiaq produces 150kW and 320Nm of torque, which is distributed to both axles through a seven-speed dual-clutch DSG automatic. Based on the MQB37 platform, the Kodiaq SUV is available in the Sportline and Selection L&K in seven-seat configurations. The company shared that the SUV is being assembled in India at the brand’s facility in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar. The Kodiaq comes with a claimed fuel efficiency of 14.86 kmpl by ARAI.

The all-new Skoda Kodiaq grows 59mm longer than its predecessor, now measuring 4,758mm in length, 1,864mm in width and 1,679mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,791mm. Its ground clearance increases to 155mm when fully laden. It continues to retain its three-row layout yet manages to offer 281 litres of cargo space with all seats upright, 786 litres with the third row folded, and 1,976 litres with both rear rows stowed. Externally, the SUV boasts a bold redesign, featuring LED Beam Crystallinium headlamps with a Welcome Effect and a front grille integrated with a horizontal light strip.

A red strip connecting the tail lamps accentuates its width, and six exterior colour options are available, including Moon White and Velvet Red, with exclusive Bronx Gold for the L&K and Steel Grey for the Sportline.

On the inside, the Kodiaq elevates luxury with two distinct themes: a sporty all-black interior for the Sportline and premium Cognac leather upholstery for the L&K trim. A 32.77-cm infotainment system and Smart Dials with tactile controls streamline access to HVAC, audio and drive modes. Ergonomic upgrades include a steering wheel-mounted gear selector and a rear tablet holder. The Ergo front seats feature advanced pneumatic massage, while an acoustic package and noise-reducing windows ensure a tranquil cabin.

The Kodiaq is equipped with nine airbags, complemented by a sliding panoramic sunroof and a 725W Canton sound system with 13 speakers.

Skoda Auto India is also offering a standard warranty of five-year/125,000km (whichever earlier), along with a 10-year complimentary Road-Side Assistance on offer.

Petr Janeba, Brand Director, Skoda Auto India, said, “In March, we recorded our biggest ever monthly sales in India, driven by the Kylaq launch, and supported by the Kushaq and Slavia. This is one of many new records we aim to set this year. In line with our product offensive strategy, the launch of the all-new Kodiaq showcases the other end of our product spectrum with Škoda’s luxury and technology prowess. The Kodiaq has now grown to be an important legacy name for us like the Octavia and Superb. The Kodiaq offers the ultimate luxury and handling for city roads and also packs in versatile all-terrain capabilities.”