News & Top StoriesBookings for the New Leader Edition Toyota Fortuner are now open.
- receives the 2.8-liter diesel engine with rear-wheel drive alone, but with manual and automatic gears as well.
- Dual-tone exterior tints, black alloy wheels, and front and rear bumper spoilers are examples of cosmetic modifications.
- A tire pressure monitoring system is the only new feature.
- The ex-showroom prices of the diesel rear-wheel-drive Fortuner versions range from Rs 35.93 lakh to Rs 38.21 lakh.
Recently, the Toyota Fortuner was given a special Leader edition that adds a safety feature along with a few visual upgrades. Bookings for the Leader edition are already available, however, the carmaker has not yet disclosed pricing. Before you go ahead and place your name in the order Bookings, have a look at what this has to offer.
What You Acquire
The new dual-tone exterior color options for this special edition are Super White, Platinum Pearl, and Silver Metallic, all of which may be had with a black roof. Along with gloss black spoilers for the front and rear bumpers, it also has 17-inch blacked-out alloy wheels. The dealerships will install these items.
There is just one additional feature added to the Leader Edition, and that is a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) that is taken from the more advanced Fortuner Legender.
Available Powertrains
The 2.8-liter diesel engine of the Fortuner Leader Edition is identical to that of the base model, and it is available with a manual or automatic transmission. The automatic versions produce 500 Nm and 204 PS, while the manual versions produce 420 Nm and 204 PS. Only the Fortuner models with rear-wheel drive are compatible with the Leader Edition.
Features
The Leader edition’s amenities, which include an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, connected Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, dual-zone temperature control, a 6-speaker sound system, wireless phone charging, and a motorized tailgate, are identical to those of the normal Fortuner, except for the TPMS.
It has traction control, hill hold assist, vehicle stability control (VSC), seven airbags, and other safety features.
Anticipated Cost & Competitors
The diesel rear-wheel-drive Fortuner versions range in price from Rs 35.93 lakh to Rs 38.21 lakh (ex-showroom); considering the visual modifications, you should anticipate paying approximately Rs 50,000 more for the Leader Edition. The Jeep Meridian Overland, Skoda Kodiaq, and MG Gloster Blackstorm are competitors of the Toyota Fortuner Leader Edition.
News & Top StoriesView These Seven Pictures To See The Kia Sonet HTE (O) Variant
Kia has unveiled the HTE (O) and HTK (O), two new optional Sonet variants. We will walk you through Sonet’s HTE (O) variant in this report. This variant is based on the original HTE variant but has additional features including a sunroof and a sunglasses holder.
Here’s how it looks.
Design
It lacks the piano black grille finish because it is based on the entry-level HTE model. In addition to missing out on the DRLs that are available in the higher varieties, you receive basic halogen headlights. The small SUV gains a little bit of toughness from the silver skid plate on the bumper.
Approaching from the sides, you’ll notice that the Sonet has 15-inch steel wheels covered in plastic and door handles that match the color of the vehicle. The alloy wheels are dual-tone for the higher models.
When viewed from the back, the center section is not illuminated, but the attached halogen tail lamps are visible.
Interior
As soon as you enter the Sonet, you will notice the fabric-upholstered, all-black cabin. In contrast, the lower center console, steering wheel, and AC vents all have silver inlays. An entertainment system is absent from the HTE (O) variant; it is included in the HTK variant and above. If you want a music system installed, you will need to pay more money.
Features
It lacks several features because it is built on the entry-level HTE version. But now that it has a sunroof and a sunglasses holder, the inside feels a little more upscale. You receive all the standard amenities, plus two extras: manual air conditioning, power windows up front, central locking, a 12-volt power outlet, rear air conditioning vents, and USB Type-C charging outlets for the backseat passengers.
Six airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, electronic stability control, and a tire pressure monitoring system are among the safety features that come standard.
Powertrain
Diesel and gasoline engines are available for the new HTE (O) version. It is equipped with two engines: a 1.2-liter naturally aspirated engine producing 82 horsepower and 115 Nm, mated to a 5-speed manual transmission; and a 1.5-liter diesel engine with a traditional 6-speed manual transmission producing 116 horsepower and 250 Nm. A more potent 1-liter turbo-petrol engine is another option available for the higher-end Sonet versions.
Price and Competition
The ex-showroom pricing of the Kia Sonet HTE (O) variation is Rs 8.19 lakh for the petrol variant and Rs 10 lakh for the diesel option. Rivals of the Sonet include the Mahindra XUV300, Tata Nexon, Renault Kiger, Hyundai Venue, Maruti Brezza, and Nissan Magnite.
News & Top StoriesMaruti topped the list of best-selling compact and midsize hatchbacks in March 2024
The March 2024 sales report for tiny and midsize hatchbacks is already available, and Maruti hatchbacks dominated the sales table once again. Four of the six hatchbacks on this list are from Maruti, one from Tata, and one from Hyundai. Let’s look at how each of them did in last month’s sales of Maruti hatchbacks 2024
| Models | March 2024 | March 2023 | February 2024 |
| Maruti Wagon R | 16,368 | 17,305 | 19,412 |
| Maruti Swift | 15,728 | 17,559 | 13,165 |
| Tata Tiago | 6,381 | 7,366 | 6,947 |
| Hyundai Grand i10 Nios | 5,034 | 9,034 | 4,947 |
| Maruti Celerio | 3,478 | 4,646 | 3,586 |
| Maruti Ignis | 2,788 | 2,760 | 2,110 |
Key Takeaways
- The Maruti Wagon R, which surpassed 16,000 units sold, remained the best-selling hatchback in March 2024, despite sales decreases of 16% month on month and 5% year on year.
- After the Wagon R, the Maruti Swift was the only other hatchback to sell more than 10,000 copies. In March 2024, more than 15,700 Swift units were dispatched, representing a 19% increase month over month.
- In March 2024, the Tata Tiago held a 1,300-unit edge over the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios. Tata shipped almost 6,000 Tiagos last month, although monthly sales fell by 500 or so cars.
- In March 2024, Hyundai Grand i10 Nios sales reached 5,000 units. Despite sustained monthly demand, it experienced a 46% decrease in annual revenue.
- With over 3,500 vehicles delivered, the Maruti Celerio maintained its continuous demand in MoM sales. However, its YoY sales dropped by more than 1,000 units.
- Finally, the Maruti Ignis attracted over 2,700 purchasers in March 2024, but its MoM sales fell 32%.
Also Read : Launched: Mahindra Bolero Neo Plus; Starting Price: Rs 11.39 Lakh
News & Top StoriesLaunched: Mahindra Bolero Neo Plus; Starting Price: Rs 11.39 Lakh
- In essence, the Mahindra Bolero Neo Plus is the TUV300 Plus with a facelift.
- offered in two versions (P4 and P10) at prices (ex-showroom) of Rs 11.39 lakh and Rs 12.49 lakh, respectively.
- A new grille, modified bumpers, and Mahindra‘s new emblem are among the external improvements.
- A Bolero Neo-style instrument panel and steering wheel have been added to the cabin.
- The vehicle comes equipped with two front airbags, a manual air conditioner, and a 9-inch touchscreen.
- It comes with a single, 2.2-liter diesel engine paired with a 6-speed manual transmission.
The Mahindra Bolero Neo Plus, which debuted as an ambulance in the middle of 2023, is now accessible as a passenger car as well. As part of their facelift, Mahindra rebranded the TUV300 and TUV300 Plus, which are now known as the Bolero Neo and Bolero Neo Plus, respectively.
Variant-wise Prices
| Variant | Price (ex-showroom pan-India) |
| P4 | Rs 11.39 lakh |
| P10 | Rs 12.49 lakh |
The Bolero Neo Plus comes in just two versions, as opposed to the normal Bolero Neo’s three broad trim options. Nevertheless, the Bolero Neo is offered in a 7-seat arrangement, but this elongated variant has a 9-seat arrangement.
Design Detailed
In terms of general design, the Bolero Neo Plus and Bolero Neo look very similar. Mahindra’s new “Twin Peaks” emblem and a redesigned grille with chrome slats are added to its fascia. Not to mention the modified bumper with fog lamps on either side and an air dam with a mesh-like pattern. The Bolero Neo+’s extra length over the Bolero Neo is visible in profile, as are the new 5-spoke alloy wheels.
The rear bumper is slightly different from the Bolero Neo’s, and the back of the vehicle has a more rounded appearance overall. Nevertheless, it has the same spare wheel installed on the tailgate as the Bolero Neo.
Receives A Few Cabin Updates
The interior of the SUV has received some tweaks and adjustments from Mahindra. It now has the instrument cluster and steering wheel of the Mahindra Thar, which have clearer twin-pod displays. Mahindra has also changed the climate control dials and infotainment system, and the SUV is now available with new fabric upholstery.
The Bolero Neo+ lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto but has a robust 9-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, Aux, and USB connectivity. The vehicle also has a manual air conditioning system, six speakers for music, four power windows, and a driver seat that can be raised or lowered.
Dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, front fog lamps, and a reversing camera are all part of its safety net.
News & Top StoriesSpied Testing of a Citroen Basalt Is Similar To The Concept
- The Citroen Basalt design is comparable to the concept version, according to the most recent spy photos of the vehicle.
- Although the inside has not yet been made public, it is anticipated to resemble the Citroen C3 Aircross.
- The 10.2-inch touchscreen and 7-inch digital driver’s display seen in the C3 Aircross are anticipated to be available in the Basalt.
- It is also anticipated to utilize the same 1.2-liter turbo-petrol engine (110 PS) found in the C3 hatchback and C3 Aircross small SUV.
In March 2024, the Citroen Basalt Vision was unveiled as a concept for the first time worldwide. It is scheduled to make its Indian premiere in the latter part of this year. The French carmaker’s coupe SUV, the Basalt Vision, is built on the same chassis as current Citroen products, including the C3 hatchback and C3 Aircross small SUV. Here’s what we observed when we recently saw the Citroen Basalt Vision test mule driving in India.
Looks the Same As The Concept
The spy photos make it abundantly evident that the Basalt Coupe SUV test mule’s exterior appearance is very similar to that of the concept version, the Vision. It has the recognizable split grille and headlamp housing up front that is found on current Citroen vehicles. The test mule’s taillight design is akin to that of the concept version from the back. However, its athletic appearance from the side is what makes it so unique due to its sloping, coupe-like roofline.
Cabin & Attributes
The Basalt Vision coupe SUV’s interior is still a mystery to Citroen, and these spy photos did not provide us with a peek of it. Its cabin and dashboard design are anticipated to resemble those of the Citroen C3 Aircross, although the Basalt Vision is anticipated to have more features as a more upscale and fashionable option.
Features like a 10.2-inch touchscreen, a 7-inch digital driver‘s display, cruise control, automatic air conditioning, and push-button engine start/stop are anticipated for the Citroen Basalt. Up to six airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), a rear parking camera, and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) may be included in its safety equipment.
Powertrain
The 1.2-liter turbo-petrol engine (110 PS / up to 205 Nm) that powers the Citroen C3 Aircross and C3 is most likely what the Citroen Basalt Vision will run on. There will be a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission and a 6-speed manual transmission available for this unit.
Rivals & Anticipated Launch
The Basalt Coupe SUV from Citroen may go on sale in India in the second half of 2024, with a starting price of Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom). Along with compact SUVs like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Volkswagen Taigun, Toyota Hyryder, Skoda Kushaq, MG Astor, and Honda Elevate, the Basalt Vision will directly compete with the Tata Curvv.
News & Top StoriesIn April 2024, Maruti Brezza, Hyundai Venue, and Tata Nexon would experience the longest wait times.
If you want to purchase a subcompact SUV in April 2024, you may have to wait a long time. The subcompact SUVs from Nissan and Renault have reduced wait times and are easily available for delivery in certain cities, while the Maruti Brezza, Hyundai Venue, and Tata Nexon have longer wait times. The waiting times for subcompact SUVs in India’s top 20 cities are covered in detail here.
April 2024 Waiting Period Table
| City | Maruti Brezza | Hyundai Venue | Tata Nexon | Kia Sonet | Nissan Magnite | Renault Kiger |
| New Delhi | 1-3 months | 2-3 months | 2-2.5 months | 3 months | 1 month | 0.5 month |
| Bengaluru | 2.5 months | 2-3 months | 2 months | 2 months | 1 month | 0.5 month |
| Mumbai | 2-3 months | 3 months | 1-1.5 months | 1 month | 1 month | 0.5 month |
| Hyderabad | 1 month | 3 months | 1 month | 1-2 months | 0.5 month | 0.5 month |
| Pune | 2-3 months | 3 months | 2-3 months | 2 months | 1 month | 0.5 month |
| Chennai | 2-3 months | 2.5-3.5 months | 1.5-2 months | 1 month | 0.5 month | No waiting |
| Jaipur | 2-3 months | 3 months | 2 months | 1-2 months | 0.5 month | No waiting |
| Ahmedabad | 2-3 months | 2 months | 2 months | 1-2 months | 1 month | No waiting |
| Gurugram | 2-3 months | 2 months | 2 months | 1 month | 1 month | 0.5 month |
| Lucknow | 2-3 months | 2 months | 2 months | 2-3 months | 1 month | 0.5 month |
| Kolkata | 1 month | 3 months | 2-3 months | No waiting | 1 month | 1 month |
| Thane | 3 months | 2.5-3.5 months | 2 months | 1 month | 1 month | No waiting |
| Surat | 2-3 months | 3 months | 2 months | 1 month | 1 month | No waiting |
| Ghaziabad | 2-3 months | 2-3 months | 2-3 months | 1 month | 1 month | 1 month |
| Chandigarh | 2-3 months | 3-3.5 months | 2-3 months | 2 months | 1 week | 0.5 month |
| Coimbatore | 3-4 months | 2.5-3.5 months | 2-3 months | 2 months | No waiting | 1 month |
| Patna | 2-3 months | 2 months | 2 months | 2 months | 1 month | No waiting |
| Faridabad | 2-3 months | 3 months | 2-3 months | 1-2 months | 1 month | 1 month |
| Indore | 3-4 months | 2.5-3.5 months | 2-3 months | 1 month | 0.5-1 month | 0.5-1 month |
| Noida | 2-3 months | 3 months | 2-3 months | 0.5 month | 0.5-1 month | 1 month |
Key Takeaways
- In most locations, there is an average wait period of up to three months for the Maruti Brezza, which is not only one of the best-selling automobiles in India but also one of the best-selling models in its sector. On the other hand, you can receive delivery in a month if you live in Hyderabad or Kolkata.
- As of April 2024, the Hyundai Venue has an average wait time of up to three months.
- The Tata Nexon, the best-selling model in the sector, is currently facing a waiting period of up to 2.5 months on average. The waiting period is two to three months for consumers residing in Pune, Kolkata, Ghaziabad, Chandigarh, Coimbatore, Faridabad, Indore, and Noida.
- The typical waiting time for a Kia Sonet is up to 1.5 months, which is less than that of Tata, Maruti, and Hyundai SUVs. If you live in Kolkata, it is easily available for delivery, but those who want to purchase the Sonet in Delhi will have to wait the longest—three months—in New Delhi.
- In most places this April, the Nissan Magnite is facing an average wait period of up to one month. For clients residing in Coimbatore, there is no waiting period on the Magnite. However, with an average waiting period of up to half a month, the Renault Kiger is the most easily accessible subcompact SUV this month. Delivery of the Kiger is easily accessible in locations like Thane, Surat, Patna, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, and Chennai.