Tag Archives: launches

FIAT introduces the brand new 500 Collezione 1957, a brand new collectors’ version that pays tribute to the five hundred’s passionate lovers

  • FIAT launches the particular limited-edition collection 500 Collezione 1957, that includes 1,957 items with a particular “dolce vita” design that pays homage to the automotive’s heritage and triumphs.
  • This limited-edition is on the market for order beginning right this moment in chosen European international locations together with the UK.
  • With greater than 3.2 million items bought worldwide since 2007, together with over 2.7 million items in Europe, the Fiat 500 stays the European chief within the city-car section together with the Fiat Panda.

 

 

In 1957 FIAT launched the world to its small nice automotive: the Fiat 500, the car which might change into an emblem of mass motorisation and a real world ambassador of ‘Made in Italy’ manufacturing. To rejoice the fervour and the worldwide love for the icon, FIAT is launching the brand new particular limited-edition collection “Collezione 1957” a collectors’ version in solely 1957 items. This limited-edition mannequin is on the market for order beginning right this moment in chosen European international locations and Japan.

The Fiat 500 Collezione 1957 stands out with its beautiful cabrio design and unique options. The exterior of this limited-edition mannequin contains a two-tone Bossa Nova White and Dew Green bodywork with Beige capote, accentuated by the brand new Silver Beauty Line and 16″ White Diamond alloy wheels

The chrome mirror caps, and 1957 ‘Easter egg’ on the rear window pay homage to the automotive’s heritage, bridging the hole from 1957 to 2024. The inside is equally fascinating, that includes ivory-wrapped seats with Frau Leather inserts and a particular “ONE OF 1957” embossed brand, a wood dashboard, and a devoted numbered plate on the central tunnel.

This unique limited-edition isn’t just about aesthetics, but in addition incorporates chrome particulars, LED DRL, fog lights, and a 7″ TFT digital show as customary options. The connectivity choices are elevated with MOPAR CONNECT, a characteristic which ensures security, monitoring, and comfort for the shoppers. Equipped with a 1.0 Hybrid engine delivering 70 horsepower, coupled with a handbook transmission, the Fiat 500 Collezione 1957 is a timeless celebration of automotive craftsmanship and innovation.

With greater than 3.2 million items bought worldwide since 2007, together with over 2.7 million items in Europe, the Fiat 500 has at all times been the European chief within the city-car section together with the Fiat Panda: in 2023, it’s the second best-selling metropolis automotive in Europe, following the Panda, with 109 thousand items bought and a market share of 20%. It is on the rostrum within the A section in 9 international locations: 1st in Germany, Spain, Austria, Belgium, and Portugal – 2nd in Italy and Poland, and third in France and the UK.

Three generations in 67 years, beginning with the primary one in 1957 – the “original” Fiat 500 – which went on to change into an icon of Italian mobility and freedom of motion. In 2007 the second era: the Fiat 500 advanced right into a trend and elegance icon that introduced Italian type to the world; it obtained tons of of worldwide awards—together with Car of The Year in 2008—and starred on the streets in 80 totally different international locations. And in 2020, the third era of the Fiat 500 as soon as once more revolutionized city mobility within the identify of sustainability and electrification with its plethora of improvements and applied sciences.

 

Turin, 5th February 2024

 

ENDS

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VINCE CLISHAM
HEAD OF PUBLIC RELATIONS
vincent.clisham@stellantis.com

TEL +44(0)7831 315915

 

LUCINDA INGGS 
PUBLIC RELATIONS MANAGER
lucinda.inggs@stellantis.com

TEL +44(0)7542 394878

 

MICHAEL ARNOLD
PRESS FLEET MANAGER
pressfleet@stellantis.com   

TEL +44(0)7831 829410

 

JEREMY TOWNSEND
COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
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TEL +44(0)7827 896480

 

Car Launches & Model Year Updates We Saw In January 2024

Major launches in January embody facelifts from Kia and Hyundai, together with an all-new EV from Tata

In January 2024, a plethora of recent launches happened from manufacturers equivalent to Hyundai, Kia, Tata, Mercedes-Benz, and even Porsche. In addition, a number of automakers—Renault, Mahindra, and Land Rover—launched MY24 (mannequin 12 months) updates for his or her current merchandise. Let’s delve into the main points of all the brand new fashions and facelifts launched in the course of the month of January.

Kia Sonet Facelift

Price Range: Rs 7.99 lakh to Rs 15.69 lakh

Kia Sonet facelift

The series of launches for the 2024 started off with the Kia Sonet facelift. This up to date model boasts a refreshed look and incorporates a variety of recent options, together with the extent 1 superior driver help system (ADAS) security expertise. 

The main highlights embody a ten.25-inch touchscreen infotainment show, a ten.25-inch digital driver’s show, and a 4-way powered driver seat.The Sonet now additionally options six airbags throughout all variants, whereas the top-spec trim doesn’t additionally include a 360-degree digicam. Kia has additionally reintroduced the choice of a guide transmission for the diesel variant of the Sonet. 

Hyundai Creta Facelift

Price Range: Rs 11 lakh to Rs 20.15 lakh

2024 Hyundai Creta

Another a lot awaited model which received the mid life update last month is the Hyundai Creta. This compact SUV from Hyundai has undergone intensive design adjustments each in and out, accompanied by a variety of recent options. The 2024 Creta boasts facilities equivalent to twin 10.25-inch screens (one for the infotainment and one for the motive force’s show), dual-zone AC, an 8-speaker Bose sound system, and a panoramic sunroof. The Creta’s security is enhanced by the inclusion of superior driver help techniques (ADAS).

The up to date Creta now additionally comes with the selection of a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine (160 PS / 253 Nm) mated to a 7-speed twin clutch transmission (DCT).

Tata Punch EV

Price Range: Rs 10.99 lakh to Rs 15.49 lakh

Tata introduced the Punch EV as the most recent member of its all-electric lineup. The electrical Punch will get an up to date fascia and extra options over its common ICE (inside combustion engine) counterpart. The Tata Punch EV is the primary electrical car from Tata to be primarily based on the Acti.ev platform.

The Punch EV is provided with a ten.25-inch touchscreen infotainment with wi-fi Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a ten.25-inch digital driver’s show, an air air purifier, ventilated entrance seats, and a sunroof. On the protection entrance, it will get six airbags, a 360-degree digicam, digital stability management (ESC), and an digital parking brake with auto maintain. Tata is providing the Punch EV in each 25 kWh medium vary and 35 kWh lengthy vary battery pack choices, providing a variety of as much as 421 km.

Land Rover Range Rover Evoque Facelift

Price: Rs 67.90 lakh

2024 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque

Land Rover gave a minor makeover to its entry-level Range Rover SUV, the Evoque. Following the facelift, the entry-level Range Rover SUV is now extra reasonably priced by over Rs 5 lakh. The updates embody delicate design adjustments and the addition of a brand new 11.4-inch curved touchscreen infotainment show.

It will get two powertrain choices: a 2-litre turbo-petrol engine and a 2-litre diesel engine. Both models are mated to a 9-speed computerized transmission that delivers energy to all 4 wheels.

Mercedes-Benz GLA Facelift

Price Range: Rs 50.50 lakh to Rs 56.90 lakh

2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA

The Mercedes-Benz GLA facelift made its international debut in mid 2023, and it’s lastly launched in India last month. The updates on the GLA facelift are delicate, and it additionally will get some important characteristic updates, which incorporates an up to date 10.25-inch infotainment system which now helps wi-fi Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

The 2024 GLA is being provided with the identical powertrain choices as earlier than, together with a 1.3-litre turbo-petrol and a 2-litre diesel engine The latter comes with all-wheel-drive (AWD) drivetrain. 

Mercedes-Benz GLS Facelift

Price Range: Rs 1.32 Crore to Rs 1.37 Crore

2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS

Another facelift launched by Mercedes-Benz final month was the updated GLS SUV. The refreshed GLS now sports activities a extra rugged look and consists of minor cabin updates with extra options. Notable highlights comprise twin 12.3-inch screens (MBUX infotainment show and digital driver’s show), 5-zone local weather management, a 13-speaker Burmester 3D sound system, ambient lighting, a powered tailgate, and a panoramic sunroof.

The facelifted GLS SUV is obtainable with both a 3-litre 6-cylinder turbo-petrol or a 3-litre 6-cylinder diesel engine, each outfitted with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) drivetrain as customary.

Porsche Macan EV

Price: Rs 1.65 Crore (Macan Turbo)

Porsche Macan EV

Porsche introduced its second all-electric model in India in the form of Macan EV, which can be the model’s first pure electrical SUV. The bookings for the Macan EV are open, whereas its deliveries are scheduled to start from the second half of 2024. The Macan EV will likely be provided in two variants: Macan 4 and Macan Turbo, and the worth for the Macan 4 is but to be introduced.

The electrical Macan utilises a 100 kWh battery pack, out of which 95 kWh is usable. It comes with two powertrain choices providing a WLTP claimed vary of as much as 613 km.

Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Facelift

Price: Rs 1.85 Crore

2024 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe

Mercedes Benz also facelifted the sportier version of the GLE SUV, the Mercedes-AG GLE 53 Coupe. The facelifted AMG SUV has acquired up to date lighting setup and two new exterior paint choices, whereas the cabin has acquired minor tweaks like new AMG-specific upholstery and inside theme choices.

It is powered by a 3-litre 6 cylinder twin cylinder petrol engine (435 PS / 560 Nm) mated to a 9-speed computerized transmission. The unit comes mated to a 48V delicate hybrid setup which affords an extra increase of 20 PS and 200 Nm.

All costs are ex-showroom

MY24 (Model Year) Updates

2024 Renault Kwid

  • Renault Kwid, Kiger, And Triber: Renault has rolled out updates for its entire lineup in 2024, enhancing options and implementing worth reductions throughout all fashions. The Kwid now boasts an 8-inch touchscreen system, whereas the Triber inherits a 7-inch digital driver’s show from the Kiger. Notably, the Kiger now will get options like robotically foldable ORVMs and an computerized AC. Additionally, the turbo variants include red-painted brake callipers.

Mahindra XUV400 EV Front

  • Mahindra XUV400 EV: As a part of the mannequin 12 months replace, Mahindra replaced the earlier trims of the XUV400 EV with new Pro variants: EC Pro and EL Pro. With the replace, the XUV400 EV acquired an up to date dashboard, new steering wheel, and new options equivalent to a much bigger 10.25-inch touchscreen, a ten.25-inch digital driver’s show, new local weather management panel which options dual-zone AC, and rear AC vents. 

2024 Mahindra XUV700

  • Mahindra XUV700: Mahindra also updated its flagship SUV, the XUV700 EV, with new options and seating configuration. The three-row Mahindra SUV now will get the choice of 6-seater structure with captain seats within the center row, out there with the top-spec AX7 and AX7L variants. The XUV700 additionally acquired new options equivalent to ventilated entrance seats, and the motive force’s seat reminiscence operate now additionally helps you to save the positioning of the ORVMs. Lastly, Mahindra additionally launched a brand new Napoli Black exterior paint choice with the XUV700.

2024 Land Rover Discovery Sport

Read More on : Hyundai Creta on road price

Mercedes-Benz to launch electric-only ‘little G’ SUV in 2026

A smaller model of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class shall be electric-only when it launches later within the decade.

The mannequin shall be developed by Mercedes’ new specialist G division because the third mannequin in an expanded G vary, after the upcoming Mercedes EQG.

Mercedes technical chief Markus Schäfer confirmed the powertrain plans to Autocar on the current CES in Las Vegas, dismissing options that the mannequin is also provided with hybridised inside combustion engines.

The mannequin was first confirmed by firm CEO Ola Källenius on the Munich motor show, the place he referred to it because the “little G… a son or daughter of the iconic big G”.

Mercedes-Benz design chief Gorden Wagener advised Autocar that the brand new machine will take sturdy design cues from the “iconic DNA” of the present G-Class, saying: “It will have its own character, but it will be a G.”

The G-Class line-up will develop first later this 12 months with the new electrical Mercedes EQG, and Autocar understands the brand new ‘little G’ will observe in 2026.

Mercedes has launched a brand new Mercedes Modular Architecture (MMA) that shall be used for a variety of entry-level automobiles within the coming years, beginning with the brand new Mercedes-Benz CLA, however Schäfer confirmed that the ‘little G’ will sit on a distinct platform, utilizing modules from Mercedes’ bigger rear-driven automobiles, as a result of its want to supply true off-roading potential.

That means the platform shall be completely different – however prone to take learnings from – that of the full-sized EQG, which can use a reworked model of the present ICE G-Class’s ladder-frame chassis and shall be powered by 4 electrical motors.

As properly as giving Mercedes a foothold within the more and more in style rugged crossover market, the newborn G-Class shall be essential in establishing G as a Mercedes sub-brand in the identical vein as Maybach and AMG, constructing on the success of its blocky Land Rover Defender rival. Indeed, G is now its personal specialist division inside Mercedes, similar to Maybach and AMG

Källenius stated final 12 months: “Most luxurious firms construct their portfolio on the premise of 1 or two true icons. Mercedes-Benz has the great fortune to have a number of iconic merchandise and types on the higher finish of its portfolio, such because the S-Class, the SL, the G-Class in addition to the AMG and Maybach manufacturers.

“We see great potential here to expand our top-end portfolio with even more fascinating products.”

His feedback trace on the chance for every of these 4 manufacturers to spawn extra complete line-ups.

Like the upcoming CLA, the brand new compact SUV is prone to have an 800V electrical structure, permitting for 248 miles of vary to be added in simply quarter-hour through a 250kW charger.

Top News Highlights Of The Week (January 8 – 12): New Launches, Unveils, Price Hikes And Much More

The second week of 2024 witnessed lots of automotive motion with new launches and mannequin yr updates

Weekly Wrapup

The yr 2024 is off to a very good begin with lots of new issues occurring within the four-wheeler business. Just previously week, new vehicles have been launched, together with some unveils and mannequin yr updates. Here, in our weekly wrapup, you will discover the highest highlights of the final week that occurred within the automotive world. 

New Launches

2024 Kia Sonet

Kia Sonet: The facelifted Kia Sonet was unveiled late final yr and it sports activities a sharper design, added tech, extra creature-comforts, and improved security with ADAS options. Now, Kia has launched the 2024 Sonet with costs starting from Rs 7.99 lakh to Rs 15.69 lakh (introductory, ex-showroom).

2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS

Mercedes-Benz GLS: This week began with the launch of the facelifted Mercedes-Benz GLS. The luxurious SUV has acquired minor adjustments to its cabin and the outside now seems extra rugged. The carmaker has made main enhancements to its characteristic record, and it’s now priced from Rs 1.32 crore to Rs 1.37 crore (ex-showroom). You can learn extra concerning the new GLS here.

Model Year Updates

2024 Mahindra XUV400

Mahindra XUV400 Pro: The Mahindra XUV400 acquired a significant replace at first of 2024. The electrical SUV’s cabin has been utterly modified with a brand new dual-tone black and gray theme, redesigned dashboard and a brand new centre console. In addition, it now contains a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 10.25-inch digital driver’s show, dual-zone local weather management and a wi-fi cellphone charger. Click here to know the brand new worth and variants.

2024 MG Astor

2024 MG Astor: MG has up to date its compact SUV for 2024, a lot in order that it’s now probably the most inexpensive compact SUV. The MG Astor now options ventilated entrance seats, wi-fi cellphone charger, wi-fi Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a brand new person interface for the infotainment system. The exterior and inside design of the Astor remains to be the identical, nonetheless, the costs have barely modified. To discover out extra, click here.

Renault Kwid, Triber and Kiger get MY24 updates

Renault Models: Renault has 3 fashions on sale in India: Kiger, Triber and Kwid, and all 3 have acquired a MY2024 replace. This replace brings new options to those fashions like a wi-fi cellphone charger for the Triber, and an auto-dimming IRVM for the Kiger. The Kwid will get a extra inexpensive computerized variant, and all three fashions have acquired a worth lower. More particulars about all three Renault fashions may be discovered here.

Reveals

2024 Hyundai Creta

2024 Hyundai Creta: Hyundai formally revealed the outside of the facelifted Creta. The up to date compact SUV carries a brand new entrance profile, with design parts trying much like those of the Hyundai Venue. The aspect profile will get new trendy alloy wheels and the rear now contains a related LED tail mild setup. The new Creta will likely be launched on January 16 and you may study extra about it here.

Tata Punch EV Interior

Tata Punch EV Interior: Tata revealed the outside design of the Punch EV within the first week of 2024 and within the second week, we got our first look at its cabin. It options Tata’s new steering wheel with the illuminated brand, a touch-based local weather management panel, and a ten.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

Maruti eVX Confirmed For 2024

Maruti Suzuki eVX concept rear

At the Vibrant Gujarat summit 2024, Maruti confirmed that its first EV in India, the Maruti eVX, will arrive by the top of 2024. The eVX was first showcased on the 2023 Auto Expo, and it’s anticipated to come back with a battery pack of as much as 60 kWh and a claimed vary of as much as 550 km. To know extra concerning the growth, click here.

Honda Prices Hiked

Honda Elevate and City price hike

At the beginning of 2024, many carmaker’s hiked the costs of their fashions, and Honda turned the most recent carmaker to take action. The Japanese marque elevated the costs of the Honda Elevate and the Honda City, marking the top of the introductory costs of the Elevate. To know the brand new costs, click here.

Read More on : Kia Sonet on road price

Volkswagen Says An Electric GTI Is Coming In 2026

An electrical GTI is coming in two years’ time, and Abarth launches an fascinating model of the 595 pocket rocket.

This is AM Drive, Motor1’s day by day take a look at the information you want earlier than you get in your automotive.

Electric Volkswagen GTI Coming In 2026

While we’re patiently ready for the GTI to get a mid-cycle facelift in 2024, Volkswagen is already pondering forward. The firm’s design boss took to Instagram to announce a totally electrical model is coming in 2026. Andreas Mindt shared a sketch of the unique Golf GTI alongside the lately unveiled ID. GTI concept.

Since the Mk1 got here out in 1975, VW has managed to promote greater than 2.8 million items of the Grand Tourer Injection out of a complete of greater than 35 million Golfs bought all through eight generations. The first one with out a combustion engine is arriving in roughly two years’ time. It ought to peacefully coexist with the gasoline scorching hatch for a number of years.

 

The sketch seemingly means that VW will use the “Golf” moniker for a manufacturing model of the ID. GTI. However, lest we neglect the idea was based mostly on one other showcar, the ID. 2all. That was a smaller car seen as future electrical substitute of the Polo supermini. The peeps from Wolfsburg mentioned it might be “as spacious as a Golf, as affordable as a Polo.” Both ideas had been underpinned by the forthcoming MEB Entry platform for front-wheel-drive autos. The ninth-generation, electric-only Golf due in 2028 will journey on the upcoming SSP platform.

Time will inform whether or not the electrical GTI due in 2026 might be a Golf GTI or an ID.2 GTI because it’s all a bit complicated proper now. We wager it will be the latter. In the meantime, VW has trademarked a brand new “GTI” emblem the place the “I” is replaced by a lightning bolt.

The Abarth F595C Has A Lexus-Like Exhaust

Hyundai Will Bring 5 Cars To India In 2024, Get To Know Them Here

Most of those new launches will likely be SUVs, with 3 of them being facelifts

Upcoming Hyundai Cars In India

Hyundai has been the second-biggest identify within the Indian automobile business, solely after Maruti Suzuki. From entry-level hatchbacks to range-topping electrical automobiles, the Korean marque has its foot in most Indian automobile segments. However, there are some automobiles from Hyundai that require a much-needed replace, and that’s just about what’s lined up for subsequent yr. Here are all of the automobiles Hyundai will deliver to India in 2024:

Hyundai Creta Facelift

Hyundai Creta facelift

Expected Launch: January 2024

Expected Price: Rs 10.50 lakh (ex-showroom) onwards

The Hyundai Creta is without doubt one of the carmaker’s hottest automobiles in India and one of many top-selling SUVs of the nation. Since its second-generation mannequin was launched in 2020, the compact SUV hasn’t acquired any main updates. But now, a much-needed facelift is coming our means subsequent yr. The facelifted Creta will include the identical engine choices because the facelifted Kia Seltos, which features a 1.5-litre petrol engine (115 PS/144 Nm), a 1.5-litre diesel (116 PS/250 Nm) and the section’s strongest 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine (160 PS/253 Nm). 

Hyundai Creta facelift

In phrases of options, most will likely be carried ahead from the present model like a ten.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, panoramic sunroof and ventilated entrance seats, however additionally it is anticipated to get a ten.25-inch digital driver’s show, 360-degree digicam and a set of stage 2 ADAS options.

Hyundai Alcazar Facelift

Hyundai Alcazar

Image of present Hyundai Alcazar used for reference

Expected Launch: March  2024

Expected Price: Rs 16 lakh (ex-showroom) onwards

Alongside the facelifted Creta, Hyundai can even launch the Alcazar facelift. The Creta-based three-row SUV was launched in 2021, and obtained minor adjustments to its design in addition to a brand new engine choice. Though current, the Alcazar can also be due for a facelift.

Also Read: Facelifted Hyundai Alcazar Spied For The First Time

The facelifted model of Hyundai’s solely three-row SUV in India will include the identical engine choice as the present Alcazar: 1.5-litre turbo-petrol (160 PS/253 Nm) and 1.5-litre diesel (115 PS/250 Nm). In phrases of options, it might include twin 10.25-inch shows, ventilated entrance seats, panoramic sunroof, 360-degree digicam, and stage 2 ADAS options.

Hyundai Tucson Facelift

2024 Hyundai Tucson

Expected Launch: June 2024

Expected Price: Rs 30 lakh (ex-showroom) onwards

The facelifted Hyundai Tucson has been unveiled globally lately and will likely be launched in Europe in early 2024. However, Hyundai’s up to date flagship SUV will make it to Indian shores someday in mid or late 2024. 

The new Tucson will get minor adjustments to the outside and a revised inside that improves its premium expertise. New options embody dual-integrated touchscreen setup and touch-based local weather management panel. While Hyundai has not revealed every other options, we count on it to be geared up with dual-zone local weather management, panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, 6 airbags, and ADAS tech. In India, the up to date Tucson will most probably proceed with the identical 2-litre diesel (186 PS/416 Nm) and 2-litre petrol (156 PS/192 Nm) engine choices.

New Hyundai Kona Electric

2024 Hyundai Kona Electric

Expected Launch: May 2024

Expected Price: Rs 25 lakh (ex-showroom) onwards

The Hyundai Kona Electric was launched in India again in 2019, and it hasn’t acquired any updates in India since then. In December 2022, the new-generation’s facelifted Kona Electric was revealed globally and it may well additionally make its entrance into India in 2024.

2024 Hyundai Kona Electric rear

The newest Kona will get a design revamp inside and outside. Internationally, the brand new Kona Electric will include two battery pack choices – 48.4 kWh and 65.4 kWh with electrical motors making 155 PS and 218 PS, respectively. As per Hyundai, the up to date Kona could have a variety of as much as 490 km and it may be charged from 10-80 p.c in 41 minutes. 

In phrases of options, it’s going to include twin 12.3-inch shows, a 12-inch heads-up show, 8-speaker Bose sound system, vehicle-2-load (V2L) compatibility, a 360-degree digicam, and ADAS.

Hyundai IONIQ 6

Hyundai IONIQ 6

Expected Launch: April 2024

Expected Price: Rs 65 lakh (ex-showroom) onwards

Lastly, Hyundai can deliver its IONIQ 6 flagship EV sedan to India. Internationally, it comes with the choice of a 77.4 kWh battery pack with a single motor churning out 228 PS and 350 Nm. The sedan sibling to the Hyundai Ioniq 5 has a WLTP-claimed vary of over 610 km.

Hyundai IONIQ 6

Its options checklist includes twin 12.3-inch shows, a heads-up show, 8-speaker Bose sound system, wi-fi cellphone charging, and vehicle-2-load (V2L) functionality. Its security options embody 7 airbags, a 360-degree digicam, and a full suite of ADAS options.

Also Read: Here Are All The EVs Coming To India In 2024

All these Hyundai automobiles are anticipated to reach subsequent yr and change into a part of India’s ICE and EV segments. Which ones of those fashions do you await essentially the most, tell us within the feedback beneath.

Alfa Romeo Doesn’t Want To Become An SUV Brand

Alfa Romeo confirms the next-gen Giulia will stay a sedan, and Genesis launches bespoke program with two-tone paint.

This is AM Drive, Motor1’s each day take a look at the information you want earlier than you get in your automobile.

Alfa Romeo Will Keep The Sedan Alive

The fairly obscure 2003 Kamal was Alfa Romeo’s first SUV, nevertheless it by no means bought the inexperienced gentle for manufacturing. It wasn’t till 2016 that the Italian model had an SUV of its personal – the Stelvio. Then the Tonale got here alongside in 2022, and subsequent yr, the Milano will downsize the vary much more. That’s to not say the corporate’s future lineup will probably be all about high-riding fashions.

Speaking with Autocar, Alfa Romeo CEO Jean-Philippe Imparato mentioned the next-generation Giulia will retain the sedan physique model. To be bought strictly as an EV, the BMW 3 Series competitor from Milan may have an aero-focused form. The firm’s boss claims that “when you speak about electrification, you speak about aero, and when you speak about aero, you speak about ‘Berlina’, or sedan.”

That mentioned, Imparato admitted the sedan “segment is suffering.” Even so, the highest brass would not need Alfa Romeo “to become an SUV brand, even if the world is switching to SUVs.” Aside from cooking up a Giulia saloon, plans are in movement to revive the GTV and Duetto, however the agency’s CEO refused to enter any particulars.

Genesis Launches “One Of One” Customization Program

Cars That Were Launched And Unveiled In November 2023: From The New Maruti Swift To The Mercedes AMG C43


In addition to global debuts of upcoming mass-market model updates, we witnessed launches in premium segments from both Mercedes-Benz and Lotus

The busy festive period of 2023 has come to a close and it packed more automotive action than some had expected, with new cars, some special editions and facelifts. The list includes 3 global unveilings and the special editions of Volkswagen and Skoda cars, while Lotus debuted in India with an electric SUV. Here’s a brief rundown of all the models that debuted or were unveiled in the month of November

Special Editions Of Volkswagen Taigun and Virtus

Volkswagen Taigun & Virtus Sound EditionVolkswagen Taigun Trail edition

Both the Volkswagen Taigun and Volkswagen Virtus got special editions in November 2023. The Taigun SUV received 2 new editions –Trail and Sound – while the Virtus only got the Sound edition. The Trail edition is an off-road focused version of the Taigun which only gets cosmetic changes like body decals, blacked-out front grille, all black interior and a roof rack as well This special edition of the SUV is similarly priced as the Taigun GT manual variant.

On the other hand, the Sound editions of Taigun and Virtus are music-specific special editions offered only with the top-spec 1-litre turbo-petrol variants. These  come equipped with a subwoofer and special body decals on the C-pillar. The prices for the Sound editions of these models start from Rs 15.52 lakh (ex-showroom pan India).

Skoda Kushaq & Slavia Elegance Editions

Skoda Kushaq and Slavia Elegance Edition

Skoda has introduced yet another edition of the Kushaq and Slavia, namely the ‘Elegance’ edition. This special edition of both models features a distinctive Deep Black exterior shade along with some exterior and interior add-ons, for a premium of around Rs 20,000. The Elegance edition is only based on the top-spec ‘Style’ variants of both cars, limited to their 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine. 

Also Check Out: Skoda Kushaq Elegance Edition Arrives At Dealerships

New-gen Maruti Swift Debuted

2024 Suzuki Swift

Suzuki took the wraps off the new-generation Swift in Japan, following the concept preview at the Japan Mobility Show. The new Suzuki Swift not only gets a refreshed design and new cabin, but it also gets an updated 1.2-litre 3 cylinder petrol engine. After its global debut, the test mule of the new-gen Swift was also seen doing rounds on India roads and it is expected to launch here in the first half of 2024.

Third-generation Renault Duster Unveiled 

2024 Renault Duster

The third-generation Renault Duster has made its global debut under its European guise as the Dacia Duster. The new Duster is based on the carmaker’s new CMF-B platform, drawing design inspiration from the Dacia Bigster concept. The European-spec Duster offers a range of new powertrain options, including mild-hybrid, strong-hybrid, and LPG.

We have also compared the new Duster with the old India-spec Renault Duster which was last sold here.

New-gen Skoda Superb Debuted Globally

4th-gen Skoda Superb

The fourth-generation Skoda Superb had made its global debut with an updated design, all-new cabin and a variety of new powertrain options, including petrol, diesel and hybrids. Though the sedan has debuted in both estate and sedan versions, India will only get the sedan version of the Skoda Superb. Skoda could launch the new-generation Superb in India in June 2024. It is expected to be priced from Rs 36 lakh (ex-showroom).

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Hyundai Tucson Facelift Global Unveil

2024 Hyundai Tucson

The Hyundai Tucson has also undergone a midlife update and was recently unveiled globally. The changes encompass a tweaked exterior design and an updated cabin. Hyundai has yet to confirm the availability of powertrain options for the facelifted Tucson SUV. The Tucson facelift is set to debut in European markets first, with its launch in India expected in the second half of 2024 or early 2025.

Mercedes-AMG C43 Launched

Mercedes-AMG C 43

The new Mercedes-AMG C43 has been launched in India, this time in a more practical 4-door sedan avatar. The new AMG C43 sedan boasts a downsized turbo-petrol engine, but it’s more powerful than before thanks to turbocharging technology derived from Formula 1. It is priced at Rs 98 lakh (ex-showroom) pan India.

Mercedes-Benz GLE Facelift Launched

Mercedes-Benz GLE facelift

The Mercedes Benz GLE facelift has also arrived on Indian shores this month after making its global debut in February 2023. The changes on the GLE facelift are subtle, and it features updated powertrain options. The prices for the GLE facelift ranges from Rs 96.40 lakh to Rs 1.15 crore (ex-showroom pan India).

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Lotus Eletre SUV Launched

Lotus Eletre Electric SUV

The British carmaker Lotus, has debuted in the India market with its premium electric performance SUV, the Eletre. It boasts a highly aggressive stance and sporty interiors. The Eletre SUV is priced between Rs 2.55 crore and Rs 2.99 crore. Lotus has inaugurated its first dealership in India in New Delhi.

Volvo EM90 Electric MPV Global Debut

Volvo EM90 MPV front

Volvo entered the luxury MPV space with its all-new electric MPV, the EM90. The EM90 boasts a 116 kWh battery pack which can deliver a CLTC (China Light duty vehicle Test Cycle) range of 738 km. The EM90 electric MPV will be launched in China first, followed by the other global markets.

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Maruti Cars Set To Get Pricier From January 2024


The price hike will affect all models, including recent launches such as the Maruti Fronx and Maruti Jimny

Suzuki logo

  • The price hike will vary for different models and variants.

  • Increasing commodity prices and overall inflation have been cited as the reasons for the price hike.

  • Maruti’s current lineup includes 17 models sold via the Arena and Nexa showrooms.

It’s a common practice for carmakers to announce price hikes towards the end of a calendar year which become effective from the next year. With 2024 around the corner, Maruti has announced a price hike across the range, effective from January 2024. The price revision will vary for different models and variants.

Reason For The Hike

Maruti Fronx

Maruti has stated that rising commodity prices and overall inflation have resulted in increased input costs, thus leading to the price increment. However, the quantum of the price increase is yet to be announced. For your reference, here’s the current model-wise pricing of Maruti’s existing lineup:

Arena Models


Model

Price Range

Maruti Alto K10

Rs 3.99 lakh to Rs 5.96 lakh

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Nexa Models


Model

Price Range

Maruti Ignis

Rs 5.84 lakh to Rs 8.16 lakh

Maruti’s current lineup comprises a total of 17 models, including both Arena and Nexa offerings. The most affordable model is the Maruti Alto K10, starting at Rs 3.99 lakh, while the priciest is the Invicto, reaching Rs 28.42 lakh.

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More Updates On Maruti’s Future Plans

Upcoming Maruti cars

We recently got an update on Maruti’s new car launch plans, wherein it’s working to introduce 5 new internal combustion engine (ICE) powered cars by 2031. The list includes one new MPV, 2 new hatchbacks and a micro SUV as well.

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