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Citroën India Reports Three-Fold Sales Increase in Q4 2025

Shruti Shiraguppi — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 12:52:24

Citroën India recorded a three-fold increase in Q4 2025 sales compared to Q3, driven by its Citroën 2.0 "Shift Into The New" strategy that focuses on localisation, dealer expansion, and customer experience improvements across the country.

The Citroën 2.0 strategy, unveiled in August 2025, outlines a roadmap to deepen localisation, expand dealer and service networks, and enhance product and ownership experiences. The company's vehicle exports also grew 18.8 percent in 2025, supported by demand from Africa and ASEAN markets.

Shailesh Hazela, CEO & Managing Director, Stellantis India, said, "Citroën 2.0 – 'Shift Into The New' strategy is leading the steady growth in India. With sharp focus on localisation, enhancing India-first product interventions, and expanding customer accessibility, we have created a strong and sustainable growth path. The impact is visible; Citroën delivered 3X sales in Q4 vs Q3 and contributed significantly to Stellantis India's 18.8% export growth in 2025. With the Basalt set to join our global export portfolio in 2026, India is rapidly becoming a core pillar of Citroën's long-term strategy for product development, manufacturing, and technology."

The automaker strengthened its product lineup in 2025 with the C3 Dark Edition, Aircross, C3X, Basalt, and Aircross X. The Basalt X introduced CARA, an intelligent in-car assistant that handles music control, navigation, hands-free calling, weather updates, reminders, web search, and flight tracking.

Citroën formed partnerships with HDFC Bank, IndusInd General Insurance, and Sundaram Finance in 2025 to provide financing options, digital loan approvals, and insurance solutions. The company also partnered with mobility providers to integrate electric vehicles into urban fleets.

The Basalt model is scheduled to begin exports in 2026, expanding India's role as a manufacturing and export hub within Citroën's operations. The company plans to continue expanding its retail presence, accelerate India-focused product development, scale exports, and develop electric vehicle solutions.

Record 599,000 cars, SUVs exported in April-November, upcoming Mexico tariff hike casts a shadow

Ajit Dalvi — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 12:45:41

Led by Maruti Suzuki, overseas shipments of made-in-India cars, sedans, SUVs and MPVs have hit a new high of nearly 600,000 units in the first 8 months of FY2026. As per SIAM export sales data, 599,276 passenger vehicles were dispatched to key global markets, up by a strong 20% YoY (April-November 2024: 498,763 units), which translates into an additional 100,513 units.

With four months left to go in the current fiscal year, this performance puts the PV industry in close sight of the highest export total yet: 770,364 units in FY2025. In the first eight months of FY2026, monthly PV exports have crossed the 80,000-units mark thrice: September (87,762 units), November 84,646 units) and August (82,246 units).

However, the recent decision by Mexico, which is India’s third-largest PV export market after South Africa and Saudi Arabia, to substantially raise import tariff on made-in-India PVs to 50% from 20% starting January 1, 2026, will cast a shadow over the future rate of growth of made-in-India PV exports. Mexico, which imported around 194,000 cars and SUVs from India in FY2024, accounted for 25% of the record 770,364 PVs shipped overseas last fiscal. This represents business worth $1.9 billion (around Rs 15,800 crore).

Saharsh Damani, CEO, Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA), has called Mexico's new 35-50% tariff on Indian automobiles a "serious challenge" as the Latin American country prepares to implement duties on imports from countries without free-trade agreements (FTAs) from January 1, 2026. "Industry and government's task is cut out as they need to swiftly activate their diplomacy to set things right," said Damani.

The stiff tariff increase will expectedly adversely impact major Indian automakers across both the PV and two-wheeler markets. According to Damani, Maruti Suzuki India exports 66,000-70,000 units annually to Mexico — representing 22-25% of its total exports — including popular models like the Baleno, Swift, Dzire, and Brezza. Hyundai Motor India ships 25,000-30,000 units including the Grand i10 Nios, Aura, Venue, and Creta, while the Volkswagen Group ships 55,000-60,000 units of the Virtus, Slavia, Taigun, and Kushaq. Nissan India also exports several thousand Magnite SUVs, sold as the Kicks in Mexico.

Let’s take a quick look at how India’s 16 PV exporters have fared in the April-November 2025 period.

With exports of 282,749 PVs in the past eight months, Maruti Suzuki has already achieved 86% of its record FY2025 shipments. The company is eyeing an 400,000 export milestone in FY2026.

Maruti Suzuki India, India’s No. 1 passenger vehicle exporter for the past four fiscals, has taken a strong lead in FY2026 with shipments of 282,749 units, up 36% YoY. The car, SUV and MPV manufacturer, which exported a record 330,081 vehicles in FY2025, has already achieved 86% of that in the first eight months of the current fiscal. Maruti Suzuki is targeting 400,000 vehicle exports in FY2026, but Mexico’s upcoming stiff hike in tariffs could prove to be a dampener since the country is a leading market in the key Latin American region. Mexico, along with Africa, Japan, Chile and Saudi Arabia are key growth markets for the company.

In April-November 2025, while Maruti’s car exports rose 32% YoY to 135,358 units, demand for its SUVs and MPVs jumped 39% YoY to 140,601 units. This strong performance is reflected in export market share which has risen to 47% from 42% a year ago.

Hyundai Motor India has exported 132,142 units, up 18% YoY. This total comprises 112,271 cars and sedans, up 22% YoY, and 19,871 SUVs, down 1.48% YoY. The Verna sedan, now in its sixth generation, continues to be its best export model – the 44,315 units exported are a 24% YoY increase. In FY2025, Hyundai had exported 52,615 Vernas.

Nissan Motor India, ranked No. 3 on the PV exporter scale, has shipped 51,676 vehicles in the past eight months, up 22% and sees a resultant increase in export market share to 9% from 8% a year ago. While demand for the Sunny sedan is down sharply by 46% YoY (April-November 2024: 34,556 units), that decline is more than made up by the 330% YoY increase in export sales of the Magnite SUV. Nissan India has shipped 32,991 Magnites, an additional 25,331 units (April-November 2024: 7,660 Magnites) catering to both left-hand-drive and right-hand-drive markets. Like Maruti and Hyundai, key export regions for Nissan India include Africa, the Middle East, Latin America. Southeast Asia is also a growing market for the Magnite. India is a global manufacturing hub for the Magnite, whose export sales (32,991 units) outstrip domestic market sales (13,379 units in April-November 2025, down 28% YoY)

Volkswagen India, with exports of 31,207 units, is down 14% YoY which sees its market share reduce to 5% from 7% a year ago. Demand is down 13% YoY (22,539 units) for its main model – the Virtus sedan as well as for the Taigun SUV at 8,668 units, down 17% YoY.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor has risen one rank to No. 5 with 25,182 vehicle exports, up 56% YoY. This mainly due to strong demand for the Hyryder midsize SUV whose sales are clubbed with the Rumion MPV (25,100 units, up 55% YoY). The company also shipped 77 Innova MPVs and five other SUVs.

Kia India has seen a 3% increase in exports to 19,478 units comprising 9,787 units of the Sonet and Syros compact SUVs, 5,095 Carens MPVs, and 4,596 Seltos midsize SUVs.

Honda Cars India, which was the No. 2 PV exporter a year ago, has slid to No. 7 with 19,351 units, down sharply by 54% YoY (April-November 2024: 42,030 units). This is mainly due to the 64% fall in export demand for the Elevate midsize SUV to 11,152 units from 30,813 units a year ago. Honda also exported 7,536 City and 663 Amaze sedans, whose sales are also down year on year.

Mahindra & Mahindra, which is on a roll in the domestic market and set to achieve 600,000 sales in both CY2025 and FY2026v, has also witnessed strong export sales. At 14,398 units, exports are up 85% YoY. Shipments of its compact SUVs led by the 3XO rose 160% YoY to 10,614 units. Exports of midsize SUVs (Scorpio, Thar Roxx, XUV700 and Bolero Neo) were down 3% to 3,484 units. M&M also exported 262 units of the BE 6 and XEV 9e electric SUVs.

Renault India has exported 10,485 vehicles in the past eight months, up 48% YoY. This comprises 5,965 units of the Kiger and Triber SUVs, and 4,520 Kwid hatchbacks.

Will Mexico, which itself is a target of American president Donald Trump’s high tariffs, reduce the proposed 50% tariff on Indian-made goods and vehicles? That’s difficult to say but it is understood that a number of Indian business and trade bodies including apex auto industry association SIAM have urged the Indian government to call upon Mexico to maintain the status quo on vehicle tariffs.

ALSO READ: SUV and Car Makers Sell 388,000 Units in November, Mahindra Regains No. 2 Position From Tata

Hyundai NEXO Receives Top Safety Rating from Euro NCAP

Angitha Suresh — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 11:27:03

Hyundai Motor Company announced on December 16, 2025, that its all-new NEXO has received a five-star rating from the European New Car Assessment Programme. The hydrogen fuel-cell electric SUV achieved scores of 90 percent in adult occupant protection and 85 percent in child occupant protection during the independent safety evaluation.

The NEXO demonstrated stable performance across Euro NCAP's four assessment categories: adult occupant protection, child occupant protection, vulnerable road user protection, and safety assistance technologies. In adult occupant tests, the vehicle's passenger compartment remained intact during frontal offset testing, with effective protection for knees, femurs, and other body regions. The SUV received maximum points in side barrier tests and provided whiplash protection rated as good for both front and rear seats.

Child safety tests showed effective protection for six- and ten-year-old test dummies in frontal and side-impact scenarios, earning maximum points. The vehicle includes a front passenger airbag deactivation system with status indication and supports installation of approved child restraint systems.

This marks the fourth consecutive five-star Euro NCAP rating for Hyundai's electrified vehicle lineup, following similar results for the IONIQ 5, IONIQ 6, and IONIQ 9 models. The previous generation NEXO became the first fuel-cell electric vehicle tested by Euro NCAP in 2018 and also received five stars under evaluation standards at that time.

The NEXO operates as a hydrogen fuel-cell electric vehicle, emitting only water vapor during operation. Hyundai has positioned the model as part of its zero-emission vehicle strategy alongside its battery-electric offerings.

Euro NCAP, established in 1997, conducts independent crash and safety assessments of new vehicles sold in Europe. The organization receives support from European governments, consumer groups, and mobility organizations to provide comparable safety information to vehicle buyers.

JSW MG Motor India Launches Hector Facelift at ₹11.99 Lakh

Sarthak Mahajan — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 14:43:45

JSW MG Motor India on Monday launched the facelifted MG Hector at a starting price of ₹11.99 lakh (ex-showroom). The introductory price is applicable for a limited number of units.

The updated Hector will be offered in both five- and seven-seat configurations. It will be powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, available with manual and CVT gearbox options. The engine produces 143 PS of power and 250 Nm of torque. Standard safety features include ABS, EBD, ESP, traction control, hill-hold control and brake assist.

Inside, the Hector gets refreshed cabin themes. The seven-seat variants feature a dual-tone Urban Tan interior, while the five-seat version comes with a dual-tone Ice Grey theme. Key features include a six-way power-adjustable driver seat, a 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system, i-SWIPE touch gesture controls for AC, music and navigation, and a digital Bluetooth key with key-sharing functionality.

Anurag Mehrotra, managing director, JSW MG Motor India, said the Hector remains central to the brand’s India strategy. “The Hector was our maiden nameplate and quickly became synonymous with the MG brand, emerging as one of India’s most loved SUVs with 1,50,000 customers since its debut. With the All-New MG Hector, we take this legacy a notch higher by enhancing its design, comfort, and technology, offering an unmatched value proposition,” he said.

The facelift also offers features such as a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, an eight-colour ambient lighting system and MG’s i-SMART connected technology with over 70 features. It also gets an advanced ADAS suite, along with convenience features such as push-button start, powered tailgate, air purifier with PM2.5 filter, front parking sensors and remote functions via the i-SMART app.

Available across multiple trims and seating layouts, the refreshed Hector aims to strengthen MG’s position in India’s highly competitive mid-size SUV segment.

Between April and November this year, India’s utility vehicle (UV) market continued to outperform the broader passenger vehicle segment. UV sales rose 5.1% year-on-year to 1.85 million units, compared with a 2.9% growth in overall PV volumes, underlining the segment’s role as the primary growth engine of the market.

Against this backdrop, JSW MG Motor India’s wholesale volumes have remained under pressure. So far in FY26, the company produced 5,672 units, a sharp decline from 20,957 units in the same period last year, according to SIAM data. The Hector, traditionally MG’s mainstay in India, accounted for 4,702 units during the period, down from 12,736 units a year ago, reflecting intensifying competition and slower traction in the core mid-size SUV space.

In contrast, the company’s retail performance told a different story. JSW MG Motor India reported retail sales of 41,505 units during the period, up 19% year-on-year from 35,022 units, indicating stronger off-take at the dealership level despite weaker wholesale dispatches.

Launched in India in 2019, the MG Hector is yet to receive a full generational update, even as rivals have refreshed or replaced their line-ups with newer platforms, powertrains and feature upgrades. The mid-size SUV segment, which includes models such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Tata Harrier, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, and Mahindra XUV700, has expanded rapidly over the past few years and remains central to passenger vehicle growth. However, this expansion has also brought heightened competition, shorter product cycles and rising buyer expectations, making sustained relevance increasingly challenging for older nameplates.

Mahindra Opens Pre-Bookings for XUV 7XO Premium SUV Ahead of January Launch

Shristi Ohri — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 13:18:58

Mahindra & Mahindra has commenced pre-bookings for its upcoming premium SUV, the XUV 7XO, with customers able to reserve the vehicle from 12:00 PM on December 15, 2025. The company is accepting advance reservations with a booking amount of Rs 21,000 through its dealership network across India and online channels.

The XUV 7XO represents a comprehensive update to the popular XUV700, which has accumulated over 300,000 customers since its launch four years ago. The company describes the vehicle as a hi-tech, premium SUV that builds upon the foundation of its predecessor with improvements in design, technology, comfort, and performance.

At the time of pre-booking, customers will have the flexibility to select their preferred dealership, fuel type, and transmission option. The XUV 7XO will be offered in both petrol and diesel variants, with each fuel option available in manual and automatic transmission configurations. The early booking system is designed to secure a place in the delivery queue for interested customers.

The company has scheduled the world premiere of the XUV 7XO for January 5, 2026, when full pricing details and variant specifications are expected to be announced. The updated model adopts Mahindra's newer nomenclature for internal combustion engine vehicles, following the pattern established by the XUV 3XO.

Based on recent teasers and spy photographs, the XUV 7XO is expected to feature significant exterior updates. These include a redesigned front grille, new dual-pod LED headlamps with updated daytime running lights, reworked taillights inspired by the XEV 9S electric SUV, and fresh alloy wheel designs. A new maroon color option has also been revealed in promotional materials.

Interior updates are anticipated to include a triple-screen dashboard setup similar to that found in Mahindra's electric vehicles, the XEV 9e and XEV 9S. This configuration would comprise a digital instrument cluster, central infotainment screen, and passenger display. Other expected features include a dual-spoke steering wheel with illuminated branding, improved ambient lighting, and upgraded upholstery materials.

The XUV 7XO is likely to continue with the proven powertrain options from the XUV700. These include a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 200 horsepower and 380 Newton-meters of torque, and a 2.2-litre diesel engine available in multiple states of tune, delivering up to 185 horsepower and 450 Newton-meters. Both engines are expected to be paired with six-speed manual and automatic transmission options, with the diesel variant also offering an all-wheel-drive system.

The current XUV700 is positioned in the premium SUV segment with prices ranging from Rs 13.66 lakh to Rs 23.71 lakh (ex-showroom). The XUV 7XO is expected to be priced in a similar range, with possible adjustments to account for the additional features and updates. The vehicle will compete with rivals including the Tata Safari, MG Hector Plus, Hyundai Alcazar, and Jeep Meridian.

Mahindra has indicated that production of the current XUV700 will conclude with the arrival of the XUV 7XO. Test drives and detailed variant information will become available closer to the January launch date.

Founded in 1945, Mahindra Group operates across multiple sectors and employs 324,000 people in over 100 countries. The company holds the position as India's leading SUV manufacturer and the world's largest tractor manufacturer by volume.

Here’s What Maruti Suzuki Thinks About EV Adoption Hurdles in India

Ketan Thakkar — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 11:19:39

Maruti Suzuki is preparing to launch its first battery electric vehicle – eVitara – in India, where the adoption of EVs is yet gain significant momentum. The automaker believes that people’s interest in EVs is growing, but the market is still held back by three major issues - real-world driving range, charging infrastructure, and uncertainty around resale value.

Partho Banerjee, senior executive officer for marketing and sales at Maruti Suzuki, believes that early EV experiences in India have had some negative impact on consumer confidence. “There have been concerns that the range that is being promised is not delivered. This creates a huge problem when consumers are making travel plans. That is one of the big concerns. Many customers believe that the electric vehicles’ range is not in line with the announced range,” he said.

Maruti Suzuki claims that the eVitara, offered with 49 kWh and 61 kWh battery options and an ARAI-certified range of up to 543 km, is capable of delivering over 500 km on a single charge in real-world conditions. The company said it has focused on demonstrating usable range rather than making optimistic claims. Banerjee noted that the vehicle has been extensively driven by independent users, not just tested internally.

Charing Infra
The second bigger challenge for EV adoption is the lack of widespread charging infrastructure. While most of the major automakers in India have rolled out their fully electric vehicles, limited charging infrastructure is seen as another biggest barriers to faster adoption of EVs in the country. India currently has fewer than 30,000 public charging stations, a number widely seen as inadequate for mass EV adoption.

Banerjee said most EV buyers today use their cars as secondary vehicles, largely because they do not trust the availability of public chargers for longer or unplanned journeys. “Today, since the public infrastructure is not there, consumers do not want to take a chance. So, if they are going to buy their first vehicle, it happens to be an ICE vehicle, for EV,” he said. “If a customer believes the vehicle is good but not the ecosystem, he will still not buy it.”

Maruti Suzuki is attempting to break this by setting up charging stations ahead of demand. The company has partnered with 13 charge-point operators and has already installed around 2,000 exclusive charging points across more than 1,100 cities. Its plan is to scale this to over one lakh charging points by the end of the decade, with a particular focus on highways and expressways. In key corridors across the top 100 cities, the company is working towards an average spacing of one charger every 5–10 km.

To simplify access to its charging infra, Maruti Suzuki has integrated multiple charging networks into a single digital platform, allowing users to locate, access and pay for charging through one app.

The government and the industry have also been pushing for higher charger-to-vehicle density, advocating that it is critical to encourage more consumers to transition to electric vehicles by alleviating range anxiety. Other OEMs, including Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra and Hyundai, are also setting up electric vehicle charging stations across the country to gain consumer confidence.

Resale value, after-sales support
The third biggest concern is resale value and after-sales support. Unlike internal combustion engine cars, where resale values are broadly predictable, electric vehicle buyers remain uncertain about what their cars will be worth after a few years, largely due to concerns over battery degradation. The battery accounts for roughly 40% of an EV’s cost, and Banerjee said this lack of clarity on long-term value has made many consumers hesitant to commit to electric cars.

Although EVs inherently require less servicing than their ICE vehicles, Banerjee feels that OEMs need to establish robust workshop networks capable of swiftly addressing any unexpected technical issues. The reliable availability of these specialized EV services is essential for building consumer confidence.

To address these concerns, Maruti Suzuki will launch an assured buyback program for its electric vehicles, a move the company believes will significantly alleviate consumer worries about resale value. The company has also readied around 1,500 EV-enabled workshops across 1,100 cities, covering not just major urban centres but also surrounding regions within a 250-km radius. The network, Banerjee said, will continue to expand as EV volumes rise.

Production of the eVitara began in August at the company’s Gujarat plant. Initially, the vehicle is being sold in the UK and is slated for export to Japan in January. While the company has not disclosed the exact timeline for India launch, Banerjee said Maruti Suzuki will start dispatching some units to dealerships in December, making the vehicle available to consumers for test drives. ENDS

Maruti Suzuki to Reassess FY30 EV Sales Outlook After GST Cut on ICE Vehicles

Ketan Thakkar — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 11:10:20

India’s largest car maker, Maruti Suzuki, is reassessing the passenger vehicle industry’s forecast of electric vehicle penetration by the end of the decade after recent GST rationalisation widened the price gap between ICE models and EVs.

GST 2.0 reduced the tax on small ICE cars [up to 4 metres in length] to a flat rate of 18%, compared with 31% (including cess) earlier, while the tax on mid- and large-sized ICE cars [with a length of over 4 metres] has been reduced to 40%, as against 43%-50% (including cess) earlier.

However, the GST on EVs continues at 5%. While the lower tax on petrol and diesel cars has boosted overall vehicle demand, it has made EVs appear relatively more expensive to value-conscious buyers.

Maruti Suzuki had earlier projected electric vehicle penetration in passenger vehicle sales to be in the range of 13-15% by 2030. Partho Banerjee, the company’s senior executive officer for marketing and sales, said the estimate was made before the GST changes, and it needs to be reassessed now.

“We had given a forecast that by 2030, the industry volume will be in the range of 5.5 to 6 million units and electric vehicle penetration will be around 13-15%. But that was before GST 2.0. Now, we need to study the market again,” he said, while adding that recent months have shown a softening in EV penetration even as overall passenger vehicle sales remained strong.

Industry data shows that electric car penetration has slipped below earlier levels despite year-on-year growth in volumes. For instance, electric car sales rose 63% year-on-year in November to 14,700 units. But the penetration stood at just 3.7%, well below the pre-GST level of 5%.

Currently, the Indian electric car market is dominated by Tata Motors, which holds the largest market share, followed by JSW MG Motor and Mahindra & Mahindra.

Maruti Suzuki has already begun production of its first battery electric vehicle, the eVitara, at its Gujarat plant, with units currently being exported to the UK, and slated for Japan in January and India in the coming months.

While Maruti Suzuki has not yet disclosed the exact launch timeline for the domestic market, the management noted that eVitara dispatches to dealerships will commence in December, making the vehicle available to consumers for test drives.

The automaker believes EV adoption in India is constrained by gaps between claimed and real-world range, limited charging infrastructure, and uncertainty over resale value, which together have weakened consumer confidence.

To address this, the carmaker is focusing on real-world driving range and building a comprehensive EV ecosystem before its launch. This includes installing 1 lakh charging points by 2030, and has already readied 1,500 EV-enabled workshops. The company will also introduce an assured buyback program.

Banerjee said the EV market will reach an inflection point once the ecosystem is strong enough to give consumers the confidence to buy an electric vehicle as their primary car, rather than limiting it to a second vehicle. ENDS

Maruti Suzuki to Introduce Assured Buyback Program, BaaS for eVitara

Ketan Thakkar — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 11:06:12

In a bid to make electric vehicles more attractive to consumers by addressing resale value concerns and higher initial acquisition cost, Maruti Suzuki plans to offer an assured buyback program and introduce Battery as a Service (BaaS) and subscription model for its first battery electric vehicle - eVitara.

Partho Banerjee, the company’s senior executive officer for marketing and sales, said concerns over the resale value of electric vehicles remain one of the major factors weighing on consumer confidence in EVs, apart from limited charging infrastructure, and the company plans to address this concern through an assured buyback program.

Unlike the broadly predictable resale values of ICE vehicles, EV buyers face significant uncertainty about future valuation for their vehicle. This concern is largely due to uncertainty over battery degradation, a critical issue since the battery accounts for approximately 40% of an EV’s total cost.

JSW MG Motor, some of the luxury carmakers and a few two-wheeler makers have also started offering assured buyback programs on their EVs to boost consumer confidence. For instance, JSW MG Motor offers an assured buyback plan for the MG Windsor PRO, which ensures that it will retain 60% of its value after three years.

Meanwhile, the higher upfront cost of electric vehicles continues to deter buyers in India’s price-sensitive market, even though EVs can offer a lower total cost of ownership over the long term.

Although the price gap between EVs and internal combustion engine vehicles had been narrowing, the introduction of GST 2.0 has altered that trajectory. The tax cut on petrol and diesel cars, while retaining the existing rate for EVs, has lifted overall vehicle demand but made electric models appear relatively more expensive to value-conscious buyers.

Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) is a business model that aims to make electric vehicles more affordable and competitive with ICE models by separating the ownership of the battery from the ownership of the vehicle. The model consumers pay for battery usage on a subscription basis or per kilometre driven. This reduces the upfront cost of an electric vehicle as the battery accounts for 30-40% of the cost of an electric vehicle.

Maruti Suzuki believes BaaS could be attractive for consumers who do not want to pay a higher initial cost for an EV, and Banerjee confirmed that the company will launch the BaaS model for eVitara, which is expected to start sales in India in the coming months.

In the mass-market EV space, JSW MG Motor has introduced the BaaS with its Windsor EV, while two-wheeler manufacturers such as Hero MotoCorp and Ather Energy are offering similar schemes for their electric products.

Earlier this year, JSW MG launched the Windsor at a starting ex-showroom price of Rs 9.99 lakh, which excludes the battery cost. Under the BaaS model, the battery is provided on a rental basis at an additional cost of Rs 3.5 per kilometer.

However, some automakers are skeptical about the viability of the BaaS model for EVs, citing financial, logistical, and consumer value concerns. The country’s largest electric car maker Tata Motors, which had evaluated the potential of the BaaS model, sees it more of a marketing strategy than a practical solution, adding unnecessary complexity and cost to consumers.

However, Maruti Suzuki believes the BaaS could help address a key customer concern, noting that EV residual values largely depend on battery deterioration—an issue that can be mitigated through the BaaS model. ENDS

Tata Sierra Accomplished and Accomplished+ Variants Priced Starting at ₹17.99 Lakh

Shristi Ohri — Sun, 14 Dec 2025 18:28:22

Tata Motors has announced pricing for the top-tier Accomplished and Accomplished+ variants of the Sierra SUV, with prices beginning at ₹17.99 lakh (ex-showroom). The launch marks the return of the iconic nameplate with a comprehensive range spanning five trim levels.

The Accomplished variants feature over 230 features and are available in six color options across four powertrain configurations. Key highlights include a Horizon View Triple Screen Infotainment Experience, HypAR HUD, Dolby Atmos audio, and a 12-speaker JBL Black sound system with subwoofer and SonicShaft Soundbar.

The range includes Advanced Driver Assistance Systems with 22 key features, along with connectivity options such as iRA connected car suite with 75 features and powered tailgate with gesture control. Comfort features include a six-way powered driver seat with memory function and welcome mode, plus dual rear USB-C charging ports.

The Accomplished variant with the 1.5 Revotron MT engine starts at ₹17.99 lakh, while the top-spec Accomplished+ with 1.5 Kryojet AT is priced at ₹21.29 lakh. The 1.5 TGDI Hyperion engine options are available at ₹19.99 lakh for the AT Accomplished and ₹20.99 lakh for the AT Accomplished+ variants.

Below the Accomplished tier, the Sierra lineup includes Adventure and Adventure+ variants starting at ₹15.29 lakh, offering 95+ features and five powertrain options. The Pure and Pure+ variants begin at ₹12.99 lakh with 75+ features, while the entry Smart+ variant starts at ₹11.49 lakh.

Ferrari CEO to IIT Bombay Students: “Redefine the Limits of What’s Possible”

Arunima Pal — Sat, 13 Dec 2025 19:04:25

Italian luxury sports car manufacturer Ferrari’s identity is built on a balance that few companies manage to maintain between tradition and technological innovation, according to CEO Benedetto Vigna. That equilibrium is not just a philosophy but the way Ferrari operates, he said.

Speaking at IIT Bombay’s E-Summit 2025, Vigna said Ferrari survives only by “audaciously redefining the limit of possible,” a process that demands equal respect for its heritage and boldness for its future. The challenge, he noted, is to protect legacy without becoming trapped by it, even as electrification and shifting customer expectations reshape the industry.

A Brand Built Like a Nut

When asked how Ferrari preserves its brand values while keeping volumes restricted, Vigna described the company through an image. “The image I have in mind is of a nut. If you think about the company like a nut, the brand is the nut shell. The thicker the shell, the stronger the brand.”

At the centre of this nut lies Ferrari’s core—its values, including the principle of scarcity. “Among those values, we have the story of scarcity, because the client must feel important. You don't want to just produce a lot of cars. Scarcity is being exclusive,” he said.

Between the core and the shell sit the people of Ferrari, whom Vigna credits with keeping the brand strong. “The people of the company have to keep working to make sure that the shell keeps rejuvenating. Because if those people don't work, don't protect the core, and don't make the shell thicker, the brand over time will become weaker.”

He described their role as operating at the crucial interface between values and brand promise. “People working at Ferrari are working at the interface between the shell and the core to make it thicker, in whatever we do, in the quality of the product and experience we offer.”

Vigna summed up Ferrari’s mission with characteristic clarity: “We, audaciously, redefine the limit of possible. How? By making this shell thicker.”

Technology as a Tool, Not the Identity

On whether technology alone can create a brand as powerful as Ferrari, Vigna said innovation is an enabler, not the destination. “Technology and innovation are good tools we are using to make the shell (the Ferrari brand) thicker and thicker. But at Ferrari, we have put together two dimensions: tradition and innovation.”

He compared this to using “two eyes,” one looking at the past and one at the future. The role of the company is to blend both using “one brain” that knows the right mix. “Like the right cocktail you want to make. No one knows the formula except you.”

For a luxury company driven by emotion, he said tradition remains a strategic asset. “If you work in a high-tech company, the tradition is not so important. It's all about the future. But when you work in a luxury company, you need to use both eyes.”

“The beauty of tradition is that a lot of times you have answers to new problems by reading with new eyes what was done before,” he said.

Why People Choose Ferrari

Vigna said Ferrari’s product and brand strategy is shaped directly by conversations with customers. “Since the time I started to work—actually one month after I started—I was put in front of a client,” he said. “Because the best way to define the product strategy is to talk to clients.”

Those interactions also changed his perception of who Ferrari’s customers are. “When I was outside Ferrari, I thought the clients of Ferrari were people who were not really self-made men or women,” he said. “But when I got into Ferrari, I met a lot of business people—self-made men and self-made women—who enjoyed life with Ferrari.”

According to Vigna, this trait is consistent across markets. “I am talking with a lot of clients all over the world—from Germany to Thailand, to Taiwan, to India, to Japan,” he said. “You see people who bought a Ferrari because in their life they made money with their own business idea.”

That entrepreneurial connection, he said, defines Ferrari’s customer base. “All people who work hard, conceive something new, start entrepreneurial activity, make a difference, and now enjoy driving a Ferrari.” For Vigna, Ferrari represents a personal milestone. “They want to reward themselves with something as beautiful as a Ferrari.”

He believes Ferrari endures globally because it pushes people to aim higher. “The reason why people in the world love Ferrari is because it's a company that is pushing us to do better and better. It is a kind of symbol that shows that if we put in the passion and competence, if we love what we do, we can succeed.”

Vigna said he accepted IIT Bombay’s invitation because he sees in India the same ambition that fuels Ferrari. “I liked the idea of using Ferrari as a way to show all the future entrepreneurs in India that you can do anything possible. You can try, you can work hard, you can put in a lot of passion, and many things can happen.” He urged students to view Ferrari not only as a carmaker but as a symbol of what disciplined passion and excellence can achieve.

Ferrari may cap production and guard exclusivity, but its message at the Summit was one of inspiration: heritage is a foundation, technology is an enabler, and people—and their passion—are what keep a legendary brand alive.

Ferrari today sells a tightly curated lineup that includes the SF90 Stradale, 296 GTB and GTS, Roma Spider, 812 Competizione, Purosangue, and several special-series models. In India, the company has showrooms in Mumbai, Bengaluru, and New Delhi.

EXCLUSIVE: Ferrari Sees Long-Term Opportunity in India Despite Small Supercar Base: CEO Vigna

Arunima Pal — Sat, 13 Dec 2025 19:00:17

Ferrari views India as a small but promising market and plans to stay closely engaged as wealth creation and infrastructure improve, chief executive officer Benedetto Vigna said at IIT Bombay’s E-Summit 2025.

India’s passenger vehicle market is moving toward 5 million annual sales, but the super sports car segment remains niche due to high taxes and limited volumes. Even so, Vigna said Ferrari believes the opportunity lies in being present early. “India, for the time being, is small. But I think there is good potential,” he said.

Ferrari currently operates three points of sale in India—in Mumbai, Bengaluru, and New Delhi. Vigna said proximity matters even before volumes scale. “I think that it's important to be close to the market when it is small so that it can become bigger,” he said.

Infrastructure, Changing Buyer Profiles

Vigna said returning global professionals and improving infrastructure are beginning to change how luxury cars are used. “I see more and more people who were in the US and are coming back to India because the situation keeps changing,” he said.

He added that Ferrari’s recent interactions with Indian customers reflected broader shifts. “Recently, we had the pleasure of dining with clients from different business fields. They were all underlining the possibility now that they can use the new infrastructure that was not there in the past,” he said.

This, he said, is influencing demand for certain body styles. “They are underlining the beauty of a car such as Purosangue that allows them also to go with four people in the car,” Vigna said. Ferrari launched the Purosangue as its first four-door, four-seat model, positioned to broaden appeal without diluting performance credentials.

India also stands out in terms of buyer age. While the global average age of Ferrari owners has remained stable at around 51, Vigna said India is significantly younger. “There are countries such as India where the average age is 40,” he said, adding that prospective buyers are even younger at 38. Nearly 40% of Ferrari’s new customers globally are now under 40, he said, underscoring the brand’s relevance with younger generations.

A Market Ferrari Has Known Before

Ferrari’s association with India dates back several decades. “You know, the first Ferrari arrived in India in 1967. It was a 275 GTB,” Vigna said.

Vigna’s own engagement with the country spans more than two decades. “The first time I came to India was right before the year 2000,” he said, noting that he has visited regularly since and worked closely with engineering teams in Noida and Bengaluru. Over that period, he said, infrastructure has improved sharply, even as India’s optimism and entrepreneurial energy have remained constant.

He said the company’s interest in India is rooted in the country’s demographics and entrepreneurial culture. “We want to be close to India. I think it's important because this country offers a lot of opportunities. It's a young country, and there is a strong entrepreneurial spirit that you see here,” he said.

Ferrari, he added, sees alignment between that mindset and its own philosophy. “So we are an entrepreneurial company. We are redefining the limit of possibility. And I think India is a good country that can help us in this journey.”

How Owners Use Ferraris

With new racetracks planned across India, Vigna said Ferrari customers broadly fall into two groups. “We have clients—and I have to say a lot of Indians belong to this category—they are racers,” he said. “They like to have fun. They like to go high speed on the track. So they enjoy the Ferrari. They use the Ferrari for what it is designed for,” he said.

At the same time, Ferrari also caters to buyers who prioritise comfort and confidence. “But then we also have clients who use the car most of the time in automatic mode and are scared to go high speed. But the car allows them to go high speed, letting them feel safe,” he said.

Based on his interactions, Vigna said Indian buyers lean toward the enthusiast end of the spectrum. “I have to say, based on the number of clients I know in India, that Indians are more about clients who like to race and enjoy the car.”

India’s luxury car market remains small, estimated at around 40,000–45,000 units annually in 2025, a fraction of overall passenger vehicle sales. High import duties and taxes keep prices elevated, limiting volumes. However, analysts expect steady growth over the next five years, driven by rising high-net-worth individuals, expanding financial markets, and improving road infrastructure. SUVs and high-performance luxury models are expected to lead this expansion.

Ferrari currently sells a tightly controlled lineup globally, including the SF90 Stradale, 296 GTB and GTS, Roma and Roma Spider, 812 Competizione, Purosangue, and limited-run special-series models. The company caps production to preserve exclusivity, even as demand outstrips supply in most markets.

For Ferrari, India may remain a small market for now. But as Vigna made clear at the Summit, size is less important than timing and presence.

MINI Launches All-New Convertible in India at Rs 58.50 Lakh

Shruti Shiraguppi — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 13:02:57

BMW Group India launched the all-new MINI Convertible in the Indian market today at an ex-showroom price of Rs 58.50 lakh, with the completely built-up unit (CBU) available for booking at all authorized MINI dealerships and deliveries commencing immediately.

The vehicle features a 1,998 cc petrol engine with MINI TwinPower Turbo technology that produces 150 kW/204 hp at 5,000-6,500 rpm and maximum torque of 300 Nm at 1,450-4,500 rpm. The car accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 6.9 seconds with a top speed of 240 km/h.

"At MINI, we believe life is too short for boring cars, which is why every MINI is built to stand out and deliver big smiles. The brand's open character quite literally translates to life in the all-new MINI Convertible. Think top down and the best experience awaits you with this car. The all-new MINI Convertible fires up the hallmark go-kart driving thrills, with looks that turn heads and emotions that mirror an 'always open' spirit. With its iconic design, modern technology and connectivity, it's an uber stylish product for those who live in the moment and leave a mark wherever they go. So don't wait anymore, MINI Convertible is open for fun!" said Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India.

Design and Features

The electrically folding soft top opens fully in 18 seconds at speeds up to 30 km/h and closes in 15 seconds. The soft top can also partially open to function as a sunroof to a length of 40 centimeters regardless of speed. Luggage compartment volume measures 160 liters with the top open and expands to 215 liters when closed.

The vehicle will be available in four colors: British Racing Green, Chili Red, Sunny Side Yellow, and Ocean Wave Green, with mirror caps in black and white combinations. It comes with aerodynamically optimized 18-inch wheels in Slide Spoke 2-tone and Flash Spoke 2-tone alloy options.

The interior features a round high-resolution OLED display called the MINI Interaction Unit, which combines instrument cluster and central display functions. The vehicle uses MINI Operating System 9 with an interface inspired by smartphone apps. The MINI Intelligent Personal Assistant can be activated by saying "Hey MINI" to control navigation, telephony, and entertainment functions.

Standard features include the Harman Kardon Surround Sound System, Head-up Display, Remote Services, Remote Software Upgrades, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and MINI Digital Key Plus. Sports seats with electric adjustment are covered in Vescin upholstery made from recycled materials.

Transmission and Safety

The vehicle is equipped with a 7-speed double clutch Steptronic Sport Transmission and delivers a fuel economy of 16.82 km/l with CO2 emissions of 141 g/km.

Safety equipment includes front passenger airbags, side curtain airbags, Brake Assist, Dynamic Stability Control, Anti-lock Braking System, Cornering Brake Control, Rear View Camera, and Tyre Pressure Indicator. ADAS Level 1 features include Front Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, and Reversing Assistant.

The vehicle comes with a two-year warranty for unlimited kilometers and two years of 24x7 roadside assistance. Service inclusive plans start from three years/40,000 km, with package extensions available up to 10 years/100,000 km.

BMW India Financial Services offers financing options with monthly installments starting at Rs 58,500 with assured buyback at the end of tenure.

Mercedes-Benz India to Raise Prices by Up to 2% from January 2026

Shruti Shiraguppi — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 12:51:25

Mercedes-Benz India will implement a price correction of up to 2% across its entire model range effective January 1, 2026, driven by sustained forex pressures, rising input costs, and increased logistical expenses that have created pressure on operational costs throughout 2025.

The adjustment comes as the Euro-INR exchange rate has consistently traded above the INR 100 mark in 2025, representing a significant deviation from historical averages. This currency environment has created substantial cost pressures across the supply chain, affecting both imported components for local assembly and completely built units (CBUs).

"Currency headwinds have persisted longer than we anticipated this year, with Euro consistently trading over INR 100 mark. This prolonged volatility affects every aspect of our operations, from imported components for local production, to completely built units. In addition, rising input costs, increasing logistical expenses, in combination with inflationary costs have significantly risen our overall operational costs," said Santosh Iyer, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India.

The company stated it is absorbing the majority of cost pressures and passing only a nominal portion to the market. The adjustment quantum will vary by model based on local content versus import dependency.

Mercedes-Benz India is considering further quarterly price adjustments to align closer with current forex levels.

Financial Services to Offset Impact

Mercedes-Benz Financial Services (MBFS) has developed tailored financial products to mitigate the EMI impact from the price adjustment. With 80% of Mercedes-Benz purchases in India involving financing, and MBFS directly facilitating approximately 50% of total brand sales, the company's financial arm plays a significant role in the ownership ecosystem.

"Thanks to RBI's continuous repo rate reduction, enabling Mercedes-Benz Financial Services to pass on the benefits to end customers, thereby mitigating price increase effect to a large extent," Iyer added.

The company has a production facility spread over 100 acres in Chakan near Pune and operates over 140 luxury touchpoints across 50+ cities in India.

Festive Hangover: Sales of Cars and SUVs Moderate Sharply in November After Festive High

Shristi Ohri — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 12:01:20

The Indian passenger vehicle market witnessed a sharp 11.2% month-on-month decline in November 2025, with domestic sales falling from 3,99,605 units in October to 3,54,969 units. While some correction was anticipated following the festive season peak, the magnitude of decline varied dramatically across segments, revealing interesting patterns about consumer behaviour, pricing dynamics, and the lingering effects of the GST reduction announced in September.

The UV2 Segment: Steepest Fall

The UV2 segment, comprising SUVs between 4,400-4,700mm priced under Rs 20 lakh, recorded the steepest decline at 23.6%, falling from 49,880 units in October to 38,131 units in November. This segment, which includes popular nameplates like the Mahindra Scorpio, Thar Roxx, XUV700, Hyundai Alcazar, and Kia Carens, appears to have been most susceptible to the post-festive demand exhaustion.

Mahindra's combined sales of Scorpio, Thar Roxx, and XUV700 dropped 22.1% from 36,006 units to 28,038 units. The Thar Roxx, which had been maintaining waiting periods of several months, saw production constraints intersect with normalising demand. The Hyundai Alcazar witnessed a sharper 33.3% decline from 1,259 units to just 840 units, while the Kia Carens fell 25.6% from 8,779 units to 6,530 units. Maruti's XL6, already a niche player, dropped 32.3% from 3,611 units to 2,445 units.

The UV2 segment's vulnerability stems from its positioning. These vehicles, typically priced between Rs 15-20 lakh, represent considered purchases where buyers often time their decisions around festive periods for auspicious delivery dates and maximum discounts. October's GST benefit pass-through and aggressive dealer-level discounts likely pulled forward demand that would have otherwise materialised in subsequent months.

UV1 Segment: The 16% Correction

The UV1 category, spanning compact SUVs between 4,000-4,400mm, declined 16% from 94,533 units to 79,399 units. This segment tells a story of divergent fortunes.

The most dramatic individual declines came from newer entrants struggling to maintain launch momentum. Mahindra's Electric Origin SUV range (BE 6e and XEV 9e) fell 43.5% from 4,842 units to 2,737 units, suggesting that the tax cuts on non-EVs continue to modulate demand for electric vehicles. The Skoda Kushaq fell 51.9% from 1,219 units to just 586 units, reflecting the Czech brand's ongoing struggles in the Indian market. Toyota's Urban Cruiser HyRyder and Rumion combined fell 37% from 14,630 units to 9,211 units.

The segment's volume leaders showed more resilience. The Hyundai Creta, India's bestselling midsize SUV, declined a relatively modest 5.6% from 18,381 units to 17,344 units. However, this marks the third consecutive month of decline for the Creta, which sold 18,861 units in September. Competition from the Thar Roxx, Curvv, and now the Maruti e Vitara appears to be gradually eroding Creta's dominance. The Kia Seltos fell 11.6% from 7,130 units to 6,305 units.

Maruti Suzuki's UV1 portfolio, which now includes the e Vitara alongside the Ertiga, Grand Vitara, and Victoris, declined 9.4% from 43,992 units to 39,836 units, but remains the segment's volume leader by a significant margin.

UVC Segment: Sub-Compact SUVs Soften

The sub-4-metre SUV segment (UVC) fell 10.2% from 1,09,144 units to 98,036 units. This category, which includes entry-level SUVs priced under Rs 20 lakh, had been a major beneficiary of the September GST reduction on vehicles under 4 metres.

The Skoda Kylaq, launched with considerable fanfare, saw the sharpest decline at 30.3%, falling from 5,078 units to 3,538 units. While supply constraints may partly explain this, the trajectory raises questions about whether the sub-compact SUV market is approaching saturation with multiple competent offerings.

Mahindra's combined UVC sales (Bolero, Thar, XUV 3XO, XUV300, and XUV400) dropped 17% from 30,776 units to 25,561 units. The Nissan Magnite fell 20.6% from 2,402 units to 1,908 units.

However, some players bucked the trend. Maruti Suzuki's Brezza-Fronx-Jimny trio held virtually flat, edging up 0.5% from 29,667 units to 29,807 units. The Hyundai Exter-Venue combination showed relative stability with a 3.8% decline from 18,032 units to 17,350 units. Kia's Sonet, along with the newly launched Syros, fell 6.9% from 13,530 units to 12,595 units.

Passenger Cars: A Tale of Two Halves

The passenger car segment presented a counter-intuitive picture. While the overall category declined 3.4% from 1,16,601 units to 1,12,612 units, the Mini segment actually grew 33% from 9,621 units to 12,794 units.

This growth was driven entirely by Maruti Suzuki's Alto and S-Presso, which jumped from 9,067 units to 12,347 units. The entry-level segment's November surge suggests either inventory corrections or renewed interest at the absolute bottom of the market, possibly from first-time buyers who missed October's festive deals.

The Compact segment, India's largest car category by volume, fell 6.3% from 1,01,199 units to 94,788 units. Maruti's portfolio (Baleno, Celerio, Dzire, Ignis, Swift, WagonR) declined 4.2% from 76,143 units to 72,926 units. The Honda Amaze dropped 23.9% from 3,630 units to 2,763 units, though this may reflect production transitions as the new-generation model ramps up. The Toyota Glanza fell 18.3% from 6,162 units to 5,032 units.

The Executive segment (Skoda Slavia, Octavia) witnessed a 26.4% decline from 1,650 units to 1,214 units, while Mid-Size sedans fell 6.8% from 3,855 units to 3,594 units.

The Resilient Categories

Two segments demonstrated notable stability. The Van segment, dominated by the Maruti Eeco, declined just 2.5% from 13,537 units to 13,200 units. This commercial-use-heavy category is less susceptible to festive timing effects.

The UV3 segment (large MPVs like Innova Crysta and HyCross) fell 15.5% from 11,252 units to 9,512 units, while UV4 (Rs 20-30 lakh SUVs) actually grew 14.8% from 526 units to 604 units, though absolute volumes remain small.

The Discount Factor

The varying magnitude of declines across segments correlates strongly with where discounts were most aggressive in October. The UV2 and UV1 segments, where manufacturers offered substantial festive discounts to clear inventory before year-end, saw the sharpest November corrections. Conversely, segments with tighter supply-demand balance, like Maruti's sub-compact SUVs, maintained stability.

The GST reduction announced in September, which primarily benefited sub-4-metre vehicles, created a pull-forward effect that manifested in October's record sales. November's correction was therefore partly structural, representing a normalisation rather than demand destruction.

As the industry heads into December, the key question is whether November represents a new baseline or merely a pause before year-end push. With inventory levels still elevated at many dealerships and manufacturers keen to close the calendar year strong, December could see renewed discounting, potentially at the cost of January-February volumes.

Mahindra Opens Pre-Bookings for XUV 7XO Premium SUV on December 15

Shristi Ohri — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 10:55:51

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. has announced that pre-bookings for its upcoming premium SUV, the XUV 7XO, will open at 12:00 PM on December 15, 2025. The company, which describes itself as India's leading SUV manufacturer, will accept advance reservations with a booking amount of Rs 21,000.

The XUV 7XO, positioned as a premium offering in Mahindra's SUV lineup, will be available in both petrol and diesel fuel options. Each variant will offer manual and automatic transmission choices, giving customers flexibility in their selection.

At the time of pre-booking, customers will be able to choose their preferred dealership, fuel type, and transmission option. The booking facility will be accessible through Mahindra's dealership network across the country as well as through the company's online channels.

The early booking system is designed to secure a place in the delivery queue for customers interested in the vehicle. Mahindra has not yet announced pricing or specific delivery timelines for the XUV 7XO.

Founded in 1945, Mahindra Group operates across multiple sectors including farm equipment, utility vehicles, information technology, and financial services. The group employs 324,000 people in over 100 countries and holds the position of the world's largest tractor manufacturer by volume.

For more information about the XUV 7XO, interested buyers can visit Mahindra's official website or follow the company's social media channels.

Mexico's Tariff Increase to Affect $1 Billion in Indian Car Exports

Shruti Shiraguppi — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 15:03:06

Mexico's tariff increase will affect $1 billion worth of shipments from major Indian car exporters, including Volkswagen and Hyundai, despite industry lobbying efforts to prevent the move, according to two sources and an industry letter reviewed by Reuters.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum's government approved Wednesday raising import tariffs next year on hundreds of items from countries without trade agreements, including China and India. The import duty on cars will rise to 50% from 20%.

The tariff hike will impact India's largest vehicle exporters to Mexico, including Volkswagen, Hyundai, Nissan and Maruti Suzuki. Mexico is India's third-largest car export market after South Africa and Saudi Arabia.

The Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers urged India's commerce ministry in November to press Mexico to maintain existing tariffs for vehicles shipped from India, according to a copy of the letter.

"The proposed tariff hike is expected to have a direct impact on Indian automobile exports to Mexico...we seek Government of India's support to kindly engage with the Mexican government," the industry body said in its letter to the commerce ministry before the tariff was finalized.

India shipped goods worth $5.3 billion to Mexico in the last fiscal year, of which cars made up close to $1 billion, according to the letter and commercially available customs data.

Skoda Auto accounts for nearly 50% of India's total car shipments to Mexico. Hyundai shipped cars worth $200 million, Nissan's exports stood at $140 million and Suzuki's at $120 million, the data showed.

Piyush Arora, chief of VW's Indian unit, Skoda Auto Volkswagen, said India has been a strong export base for many years and the company ships to more than 40 countries from here.

"Mexico has consistently been one of our important export markets, given the rising demand there and the traction of our India-made models," Arora said before the tariffs were approved.

Car makers told Indian officials that the majority of shipments from India to Mexico are compact cars with an engine size of less than one litre, designed for the Mexican market and not for further export to the U.S., one of the sources said.

"Indian-origin vehicles are not a threat to Mexican local industry as Indian vehicles do not cater to high-end segments manufactured by Mexico for serving the North American market," the industry group said in its letter.

Car makers also told Indian officials that of the 1.5 million passenger vehicles sold in Mexico each year, about two-thirds are imported and India's shipments make up just about 6.7 percent of the total sales, according to the first source and the letter.

The tariff hike could force Indian automakers to reevaluate strategies reliant on Mexico. The move comes amid U.S. pressure on Mexico to curtail business with China, despite opposition from local business groups warning that higher tariffs will raise costs.

India's Commerce Ministry, Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers and the Mexican government did not respond to requests for comment. Hyundai and Maruti Suzuki did not respond to requests for comment, while Nissan declined to comment.

Maruti Fronx First Nexa SUV to Drive Past 400,000 Sales

Ajit Dalvi — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 09:43:13

The popular Maruti Fronx compact SUV, launched in April 2023, has surpassed cumulative wholesales of 400,000 units in the domestic market. From launch till end-November 2025, the Fronx has sold a total of 409,817 units. With this, the premium Baleno-based compact SUV becomes the first Nexa-marketed SUV to achieve this sales milestone.

The last 100,000 units have been sold in just eight months, affirming the Fronx’s rapid run in the ultra-competitive compact SUV market which has over 20 models in the fray. This Maruti model, whose compact SUV siblings include the Brezza and the Jimny, clocked 100,000 sales in just 10 months from launch, 150,000 units in 14 months, 200,000 in 17 months, 300,000 in a little over 23 months and now the 400,000 sales milestone has been crossed in 32 months.

With 108,866 units sold in the first eight months of FY2026, the Fronx is well set to surpass its FY2025 total and achieve over 175,000 wholesales in the current fiscal.

As per SIAM’s wholesales data numbers, the Maruti Fronx sold 134,735 units in FY2024, its first full year of sales when it averaged monthly dispatches of 11,228 units. The ‘run rate’ got much better in FY2025 – the 166,216 units were a strong 23% YoY increase and translate into average monthly sales of 13,851 units. The 108,866 units sold between April and November 2025, up 3.54% YoY (April-November 2024: 105,142 units) make for average monthly sales of 13,608 units – the best yet.

Between April and November 2025, the Fronx has sold 108,866 units – that’s 6,220 units more than the Baleno (102,646 units) and 50,125 units more than the Grand Vitara (58,741 units).

FRONX CURRENTLY BEST-SELLING NEXA MODEL. . . AHEAD OF BALENO AND GRAND VITARA

Another interesting data takeaway is that the Fronx is currently the Maruti Nexa channel’s No. 1 model. While it was Nexa’s second highest-selling model in FY2025 as well as FY2024 after the best-selling Nexa model (Baleno), the Fronx is currently ahead of its donor model. The Fronx’s April-November 2025 sales (108,866 units) give it a lead of 6,220 units over the Baleno (102,646 units) in the current fiscal year.

Within the Nexa SUV stable which comprises five models (XL6, Grand Vitara, Fronx, Jimny and Invicto), the Grand Vitara midsize SUV with 355,171 units sold since its September 2022 launch is closest to the Fronx. While the Grand Vitara, which was launched six months before the Fronx, was the first to hit the 200,000 milestone, the younger Nexa sibling pipped it to the 300,000 milestone. Fiscal-year-wise, the Fronx outsold the Grand Vitara by 13,566 units in FY2024, by 42,570 units in FY2025, with the difference now increasing to 50,125 units more in the first eight months of FY2026. The Grand Vitara, to be fair to the midsize SUV, belongs to a segment above.

Notably, the Fronx’s sales performance should be viewed in the contest of the highly competitive compact SUV market that it is part of. This segment includes models like the Tata Punch and Nexon, Maruti Brezza, Hyundai Venue and Exter, Mahindra 3XO, Kia Sonet and Syros, Sokda Kylaq as well as the Toyota Taisor, which is the rebadged Fronx produced by Maruti Suzuki for Toyota Kirloskar Motor.

STYLISH AND PRACTICAL COMPACT SUV WITH PETROL AND CNG POWER

The smart-looking Fronx coupe-crossover has a strong road presence, what with it being based on the snazzy Baleno hatchback and sporting frontal design elements like the upright nose and split headlamp that look similar to the Grand Vitara midsize SUV.

While the 17-inch multi-spoke alloys are unique to Fronx, Baleno-like features include the rising waistline with a prominent hunch over the rear wheels, and the sloping roofline. Dimension-wise too, the Fronx is Baleno-like: length at 3995mm, height at 1550mm and width at 1765mm.

The Maruti Fronx is powered by an efficient 1.2 petrol which produces 90hp and 113 Nm torque, and a 1.0 turbo-petrol. The Boosterjet turbo-petrol engine, which develops 100hp and 147Nm, is paired to either a five-speed manual or a six-speed torque converter automatic.

Three months after the launch of the petrol-engined Fronx, Maruti Suzuki launched the CNG avatar of the Fronx, which has given a boost to sales. The Fronx CNG, with 77.5hp and 98.5 Nm, is claimed to deliver fuel efficiency of 28.51 km/kg.

The Fronx is sold in five trims – Sigma, Delta, Delta+, Zeta and Alpha – and 14 variants with nine manual and four auto transmission options. Pricing starts at Rs 685,000 (ex-showroom Delhi) for the base Sigma variant and goes upwards to the top-end Alpha Turbo AT variant, which costs Rs 11.98 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

In tandem with its strong domestic market sales, the Fronx is also powering Maruti Suzuki’s aggressive export growth story along with sibling Jimny in the current fiscal but that calls for another sales analysis.

Kia Banks on New Seltos to Reclaim Ground as Mid-SUV Battle Intensifies

Ketan Thakkar — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 15:27:40

Kia India is turning to the all-new Seltos to regain momentum in the mid-size SUV market, a segment it transformed in 2019 when the original model raised the bar for design, technology, and connectivity. With the Tata Sierra now launched, Renault reintroducing the Duster, and Maruti Suzuki already active with the Victoris, competitive intensity in this space has reached its highest level.

Kia is positioning the new Seltos as a benchmark-resetting model designed to reassert its early leadership in this strategically important category. Bookings for the new Seltos will open at midnight today, followed by a January 2, 2026 price announcement and mid-January deliveries — timing aimed at building strong early-quarter momentum in a market where rivals have already advanced product capabilities significantly.

At the global premiere, Kia India MD & CEO Gwanggu Lee said the new Seltos represents a strategic reset for the company in India, one of its fastest-growing global markets. Lee emphasised that the model is not merely an update but a forward-looking redesign intended to shape the next phase of the segment rather than respond to current competition.

“This is not just a continuation of our success — it is a confident new chapter… bigger, bolder, safer and smarter,” Lee said. He added that India’s SUV-led growth, accelerated digital adoption and rising safety expectations shaped the SP3i’s development, reinforcing its role in Kia’s global software-led transformation.

Engineering Strategy Strengthened for a More Demanding Segment

The new Seltos reflects one of Kia’s most India-focused engineering initiatives to date. Development was anchored at Kia’s India R&D Centre in Hyderabad, which contributes ADAS localisation, digital architecture development and global validation processes.

Sai Kiran Kupuli, Head of Project Management, said the upgrade represents a deeper redesign across structure, software and safety. “This represents the culmination of rigorous engineering, thoughtful design and a deep understanding of what Indian customers truly value,” Kupuli said.

Reinforced Platform and Expanded Dimensions for Higher Safety Standards

Kupuli highlighted that the K3 platform now uses more high-strength and hot-stamped steel, improving crash performance, rigidity and NVH.
The Seltos has grown to 4,460 mm length, 1,830 mm width, and a 2,690 mm wheelbase, placing it closer to newer rivals that have stretched segment proportions.

The Level 2+ ADAS suite — with 28 functions — has been calibrated using India-specific datasets, improving junction behaviour, lane tracking, two-wheeler sensitivity and pedestrian recognition.

A More Digital, Upgradable Cabin Architecture

The new 30-inch panoramic display integrates the cluster, infotainment and HVAC controls. OTA updates now extend to multiple controllers, while the 91-feature connected suite includes remote diagnostics, digital key, predictive maintenance and geo-fencing.

Market Playbook Realigned for Sharper Customer Preferences

Sunhack Park, Chief Sales Officer, said the new Seltos advances the identity the model created during Kia’s India entry. “The first Seltos redefined what India expected from a premium SUV… the new model refines that identity with greater strength and style,” Park said.

Park noted that customers now assess SUVs primarily on structural safety, digital immersion, and convenience-led ownership. Kia has strengthened these layers, expanded ADAS availability, and simplified variant configurations.
Kia’s footprint has expanded from 265 touchpoints in 2019 to over 800 today that will help the company cater to a larger customer base in growing Tier-2 and Tier-3 markets.

Product Direction Led by Shifts in Size, Safety and Digital Expectations

Kia engineers said the new Seltos was designed around four emergent market shifts: larger proportions, screen-first interiors, ADAS mainstreaming and rising demand for modular configuration.

To meet these shifts, the Seltos adopts a larger stance, enhanced safety architecture, deeper connected capabilities and wider ADAS coverage.
Atul Sood, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer, said the SP3i reflects a fundamentally different mid-size SUV buyer.

“Customer expectations in this segment have moved up sharply — whether it is safety, size, technology or refinement. The new Seltos reflects that reality with a far more comprehensive upgrade than a mere facelift,” Sood said. He added that Kia’s revised configuration strategy is designed to broaden access to high-value technology. “Our new configuration packs allow buyers to choose technology and safety features without having to stretch to the top end,” he said.

A Stronger Product, A Tougher Market
The mid-size SUV segment is undergoing structural change driven by growing vehicle size, higher safety norms, stronger digital adoption and expanding ADAS availability. While the new Seltos is Kia’s most comprehensive upgrade since its India entry, it enters a far more competitive arena where rivals have already raised the baseline.

With bookings opening at midnight and deliveries beginning mid-January, the next two quarters will reveal whether the new Seltos can help Kia regain strategic momentum and restore its influence in India’s most competitive SUV category.

Mahindra, Toyota and Kia surpass their CY2024 sales in first 11 months of CY2025

Ajit Dalvi — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 12:45:17

As accurately forecast in its future growth outlook for the Top 6 passenger vehicle manufacturers, published on October 6, three OEMs – Mahindra & Mahindra, Toyota Kirloskar Motor and Kia India – have become the first of the Top 6 PV OEMs to surpass their record sales of CY2024. Each of this trio has gone past their respective annual sales for last year this November.

The other half comprising Maruti Suzuki India, Hyundai Motor India and Tata Motors have this month (December 2025) to be counted before they surpass their CY2024 total. However, while Maruti Suzuki and Tata Motors, which have already clocked 93% and 94% respectively of their last year’s sales in the first 11 months of CY2025, Hyundai with 87% achieved needs to dispatch another 75,968 PVs this month if it is to exceed its CY2024 total of 605,429 units. And that seems daunting, which means it could be the only one of these six PV OEMs to see a calendar year-on-year sales decline in CY2025.

In CY2024, as per SIAM wholesales data, a total of 4.27 million (42,74,793 units) passenger vehicles were sold, up 4% YoY. Of this, the top six PV OEMs last year – Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Tata Motors, Mahindra, Toyota and Kia – accounted for 3.99 million (39,96,671 units) or a 93% share, leaving the balance 7% to be fought over by the 10 other car and SUV manufacturers.

Eleven months into CY2025, the 16 SIAM-member PV OEMs’ estimated wholesales of 4.07 million units are 95% of the CY2024 total, which means India PV Inc needs to sell another 202,000-odd vehicles in December to exceed last year’s record wholesales.

What has helped the segment very close range of the CY2024 total is the highest-ever monthly factory dispatches of 460,739 PVs in festive October which was also the first full month of GST 2.0 which reduced prices of most cars, SUVs and even MPVs and brought pent-up consumer demand to the fore.

The Top 6 OEMs’ combined sales of 38,39,449 hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, MPVs and vans are a 3.6% YoY increase (January-November 2024: 37,05,002 PVs) and give them a 94% share of the PV market for the past 11 months. Of the six OEMs, five barring Hyundai achieved their highest-ever monthly sales. Let’s take a quick look at this six-pack’s performance.

While Mahindra, Toyota and Kia have already registered record annual sales in the first 11 months of CY2025 itself, Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai and Tata Motors still need their December sales to reach there.

Maruti Suzuki had sold 1.75 million units in CY2024, up 3% (FY2023: 1.70 million units). Now, with 1.62 million units sold in the first 11 months of CY2025 (flat sales of 0%: January-November: 16,25,308 units), which is 93% of last year’s total, the company has to sell an additional 127,558 PVs to surpass that score. This calls for average sales of 158,282 units for each of the next three months. December 2025 should see the PV market leader sell more than the 130,117 units it sold last December. That’s because the GST 2.0-driven rate cuts have helped revive demand in the entry level hatchback market, particularly from town and country. This, along with the sustained demand for most of its eight utility vehicles, should see Maruti Suzuki sell over 150,000 PV in the last month of this calendar year.

The outlier OEM in CY2025 is Mahindra & Mahindra which has risen two ranks from No. 4 in CY2024 to being the current No. 2 PV OEM in CY2025 YTD. The SUV maker, which sold over half-a-million SUVs (528,460 units) for the first time in a calendar year in CY2024 has already gone past that total. Its January-November 2025 wholesales at 574,657 units are a robust 18% YoY increase (January-November 2024: 487,036 units). This translates into an additional 46,197 SUVs sold YoY. This stellar market performance is the result of surging demand for the Scorpio N and Classic, Thar Roxx, 3X0 aas well as fresh contribution from the two Born Electric SUVs, BE 6 and XEV 9e. With strong sales momentum continuing, M&M is well set to drive past the 600,000 annual sales milestone for the first time and register record wholesales of around 610,000 SUVs (up 15% YoY) in CY2025.

Hyundai Motor India, which was the longstanding No. 2 PV OEM till CY2024, is currently ranked No. 3 amongst the Top 6 players. The 529,462 cars and SUVs sold in January-November 2025 are down 6% YoY (January-November 2024: 563,221 units). The company, whose best-seller is also India’s No. 1 midsize SUV (Creta) needs to sell 75,967 PVs in December to be level with its record CY2024 wholesales of 605,429 units. That seems difficult considering its best month this year was October (53,792 units, down 3% YoY) and that the company saw a YoY decline in nine of the past 11 months, barring September and November. This would also mean that Tata Motors, currently No. 4 and just 737 units behind Hyundai, would go ahead to take the No. 3 podium position in CY2025.

Tata Motors has, in the past 11 months, dispatched 528,725 cars and SUVs, up 2% YoY (January-November 2024: 518,238 units). This is 94% of its best-ever annual score in CY2024 (562,468 units) and needs to sell another 33,744 units to achieve that. The company’s EV portfolio (74,219 units, up 8% YoY) has contributed 14% to PV sales and is set to end this calendar year with record sales of over 80,000 units. Expect Tata to sell around 52,000 PVs including EVs this month which would take its CY2025 total to 580,000 units, making it the fourth year in a row that the company has surpassed half-a-million wholesales. And also make it the new No. 3 for CY2025.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor, which has witnessed sustained strong demand for most of its products particularly the Innova Hycross MPV and the Hyryder midsize SUV, has already hit its highest-ever annual sales in the January-November period: 317,110 units. This includes its best-ever monthly sales of 40,247 units, up 43% YoY, in October.

Kia India, with wholesales of 261,627 units and 11% YoY growth (January-November 2024: 236,043 units), is the third OEM to have already registered its highest annual sales, with December numbers yet to be counted. Of its current model portfolio, the Sonet compact SUV is the best-seller, followed by the Carens MPV and Seltos midsize SUV, whose second-generation model is to be globally unveiled tomorrow (December 4).

DECEMBER BIDS FAIR TO BE A HIGH-SELLING YEAR-ENDER

December usually is a month which sees temporary moderation of new vehicle registrations as buyers tend to defer their purchase decision to the new model year. However, plenty of model availability, growing demand for compact SUVs as well as wallet-friendly year-end deals could see the PV industry scale a new high in December 2025.

December 2024 (314,934 PVs) was a 10% YoY increase over December 2023 (286,390 units) and 14% over December 2022 (275,352 units). Will this December surprise with over 330,000 units? Watch this space for the latest sales updates and analyses.

ALSO READ: Utility Vehicle Industry Poised for Record Sales of 2.8 Million Units in CY2025

BharatBenz Launches 19.5-Tonne Heavy-Duty Bus for Intercity Routes

Shruti Shiraguppi — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 13:12:41

Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DICV) has launched the BB1924, a heavy-duty bus chassis with a Gross Vehicle Weight of 19,500 kg designed for India's intercity passenger transport segment. The launch targets operators seeking higher payload capacity and reduced operating costs as India's bus market, valued at USD 51.09 billion, expands at 5.36% CAGR through 2030.

The chassis accommodates up to 51+1+1 seats and is built on BharatBenz's 92% localized supply chain. Field trials conducted on routes including Mumbai-Pune, Delhi-Jaipur, and Chennai-Bangalore demonstrated reduced total cost of ownership compared to existing solutions.

"The BB1924 represents a paradigm shift in how we think about intercity mobility. By combining advanced safety features, industry-leading localization, and a focus on total cost of ownership, BharatBenz sets a benchmark for value and reliability in intercity mobility. Our extensive field trials with leading operators across routes like Mumbai-Pune, Delhi-Jaipur, and Chennai-Bangalore have demonstrated significant reduction in total cost of ownership compared to existing solutions," said Andamuthu Ponnusamy, Head of Bus Business, DICV.

The BB1924 is powered by a BS-VI OBD-II OM926 six-cylinder diesel engine with turbocharger and intercooler, producing 241 hp and 850 Nm of torque. It features a six-speed synchromesh gearbox optimized for highway efficiency and comes with a six-year or 600,000-kilometer powertrain warranty.

Safety features include an Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Electronic Vehicle Stability Control, and a five-stage electromagnetic retarder that reduces brake wear by 40%. The chassis uses a high-tensile steel frame measuring 255 x 73.3 x 7 mm with a wheelbase of 6,850 mm. Front and rear pneumatic suspension with anti-roll bars provides ride comfort, while factory-fitted Michelin 295/80 R22.5 radial tubeless tires offer traction and durability.

The bus has a 380-liter fuel tank providing over 1,300 km range. The first service is scheduled at 60,000 km, with subsequent services at every 120,000 km intervals. The chassis is designed for 10-15 years of service life.

The BB1924 will be available through BharatBenz's network of 398 authorized touchpoints across India. DICV has partnered with over 15 banks and non-banking financial companies, including HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, and Bajaj Finserv, offering financing with interest rates starting at 8.5% per annum and EMI tenures up to five years.

After-sales support includes 24x7 roadside assistance and 95% parts availability within 24-48 hours through the localized supply chain. The company offers maintenance packages for up to six years or 600,000 kilometers, IoT-based telematics for predictive maintenance, and driver and technician training programs in regional languages.

DICV is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Daimler Truck AG and produces trucks from 10 to 55 tons, as well as BharatBenz buses, Mercedes-Benz coaches, and bus chassis. Its manufacturing plant at Oragadam near Chennai spreads over 400 acres and exports products to over 60 markets globally. DICV represents an investment of more than INR 9,560 crores.