News & Top StoriesThe Tata Nexon May Obtain A Panoramic Roof
With its first-in-class features, the Mahindra XUV 3XO has undoubtedly given competitors pause to think about improving their features. It appears that the Tata Nexon, which leads the segment, would be the first to react by adding a panoramic sunroof as well. This is based on a recently released internet video that shows a Nexon equipped with that feature on a factory floor.
3XO XUV Effect?
The XUV 3XO replaced the XUV300 with a makeover and came with a ton of features that led the sector to a price that was competitive for its launch. The combination of these elements explains why, in the first hour of opening the order books, Mahindra received over 50,000 bookings for its new sub-4m SUV.
Since the launch of the Mahindra XUV 3XO on April 29, 2024, Tata has already revealed new base-spec models for the Nexon that are powered by gasoline and diesel, bringing the car’s starting price closer to that of the entry-level 3XO versions. Although the inclusion of a panoramic sunroof may have been in Nexon’s development plan from the beginning, it wouldn’t be shocking if Tata decided to move forward the date of this feature’s launch in reaction to competition.
Additional anticipated changes for the Tata Nexon include advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), which are available for the XUV 3XO, Kia Sonet, and Hyundai Venue in addition to other vehicles.
Present Features of the Nexon
The Tata Nexon has many amenities, such as air purification, ventilated front seats, a 360-degree camera, wireless charging, sequential LED DRLs with welcome and goodbye functions, and a JBL sound system. Voice control is already available for the single-pane electric sunroof on the current Nexon model.
Anticipated Release
It appears that a video showing the Tata Nexon with a panoramic sunroof was leaked from the manufacturing line, raising the possibility that the revised Nexon will be released shortly. It will still compete in the same segment as the Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Nissan Magnite, Renault Kiger, and the soon-to-be Skoda sub-4m SUV.
The potential of a CNG powertrain is another Nexon improvement that was formally hinted at at the Bharat Mobility Expo in February 2024. Later this year, the Nexon CNG is anticipated to debut, putting the Maruti Brezza CNG models in direct competition.
News & Top StoriesSpy photos of the facelifted Kia Carens appear online
- Early in 2022, Kia introduced the Carens MPV in India.
- Alloy wheels, a revised grille, and new lighting are anticipated for the facelifted model.
- Anticipated to keep the current model‘s dashboard layout and dual-tone look.
- A 360-degree camera, ADAS, and dual-zone air conditioning could be among the new amenities on board.
- Most likely to come with the same set of transmissions and the same gasoline and diesel engines as the current model.
- 2025 is the anticipated introduction year in India; an EV version will follow after that year.
Since early 2022, the Kia Carens have been offered for sale in India as a more expensive and spacious substitute for the Maruti Ertiga. It has received updates in the form of new models and feature enhancements, but the recently released collection of foreign espionage photos suggests that it may soon get a proper facelift abroad.
Notable Changes
We anticipate some adjustments to be made to the exterior design of the facelifted Carens, however, it is difficult to identify for sure what has changed just yet (because of the thick camouflage). Anticipate these to be upgraded connected LED tail lights that now mimic those on the new Sonet, a reworked grille and alloy wheels, and a new headlamp configuration.
Anticipated Seat and Amenity Modifications
This collection of spy photos does not feature the facelifted Carens cabin. We anticipate Kia will keep the same 6- and 7-seat arrangements in addition to the dual-tone cabin motif. Having said that, the only significant modification might be new seat coverings and perhaps an upgraded climate control panel.
Even though the Carens is currently a well-equipped MPV, it may benefit from a panoramic sunroof and dual-zone air conditioning to further enhance its upscale interior. It already has a sunroof, wireless phone charging, ventilated front seats, and two 10.25-inch screens (one for infotainment and the other for instruments).
Regarding security, we anticipate that Kia will equip the redesigned MPV with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and a 360-degree camera. Six airbags are standard on all Carens models that are currently available in India, along with a tire pressure monitoring system, front and rear parking sensors, and a rear parking camera.
An assortment of powertrains
We think Kia will keep offering the facelifted Carens with the same engine options as the existing model, as it was intended for India. It currently has the following options for the engine and gearbox:
| Specification | 1.5-litre N/A Petrol | 1.5-litre Turbo-petrol | 1.5-litre Diesel |
| Power | 115 PS | 160 PS | 116 PS |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 253 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed MT | 6-speed iMT*, 7-speed DCT^ | 6-speed MT, 6-speed iMT, 6-speed AT |
Anticipated Release Date And Cost
Sometime in 2025, the redesigned Kia Carens is anticipated to go on sale in India; it will probably cost more than the outgoing model. To give you an idea, the ex-showroom pricing of the Carens, in its current specification, ranges from Rs 10.52 lakh to Rs 19.67 lakh. The facelifted MPV will continue to compete against the Maruti XL6, Toyota Rumion, and Toyota Innova Crysta in addition to the Maruti Ertiga. It will also function as a reasonably priced substitute for the Maruti Invicto and Toyota Innova Hycross.
News & Top StoriesThe launch of the new Maruti Fronx Delta Plus (O) variant lowers the cost of six airbags.
- Maruti Compared to the standard Delta Plus version, it comes with six airbags and a puncture repair kit.
- The cost of the six airbags with the Fronx is now Rs 1.6 lakh less than it was before the release of these new versions.
- The new Delta Plus (O) model from Maruti is available with an AMT or manual transmission.
- Delta Plus (O) is more expensive than the standard version by Rs 15,000 for both manual and automated models.
In April 2023, Maruti Fronx made its debut as a subcompact crossover in India. Up until now, Maruti has provided the Fronx in the following five general variants: Zeta, Alpha, Delta, Delta+, and Sigma. It now has an extra Delta Plus (O) type, though, and it’s limited to the 1.2-liter normally aspirated engine. Before delving into additional information, let us examine the costs of the recently released variations.
| Existing Variants | New Variants | Difference |
| Delta Plus MT- Rs 8.78 lakh | Delta Plus (O) MT – Rs 8.93 lakh | + Rs 15,000 |
| Delta Plus AMT – Rs 9.28 lakh | Delta Plus (O) AMT – Rs 9.43 lakh | + Rs 15,000 |
Optional features for the new Delta Plus (O) grade include a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT. Here, trims—manual and automatic—cost an additional Rs 15,,000.
Modernized Safety
The addition of six airbags and a puncture repair kit—features not included in the standard Delta Plus variant—to the Fronx is one of its most significant changes. It is significant to remember that the Zeta model, which costs Rs 10.56 lakh (ex-showroom), was the previous model that included the six airbags. With the release of the new Delta Plus (O) model, this functionality is now available for Rs 1.6 lakh less than it was previously.
Additional Features Available
The Fronx Delta Plus (O) model boasts a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 4-speaker sound system, automated climate control, and an IRVM (internal rearview mirror) that works both during the day and at night.
The Fronx is equipped with additional safety features such as ISOFIX child seat anchorage, electronic stability control (ESC), hill hold assist, seatbelt reminder for every seat, and 3-point seatbelts for every seat.
Powertrain
The specifications of the 1.2-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine that powers the Fronx Delta Plus (O) variant are listed below:
| Engine | 1.2-litre petrol |
| Power | 90 PS |
| Torque | 113 Nm |
| Transmission | 5-speed MT, 5-speed AMT |
The new Delta Plus (O) type, which has more safety features, is not equipped with the 1-liter turbo-petrol engine (100 PS / 148 Nm) that is an option for the ordinary Delta Plus variant.
Competitors
While it can be considered an alternative to the, the Maruti Fronx is a direct competitor of the Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor. small SUVs, such as the Nissan Magnite, Renault Kiger, Maruti Brezza, and Tata Nexon.
News & Top StoriesWith its India lineup, MG adds British racing colors.
- Except for the Comet EV, every model has a Rs 20,000 price increase for the special edition above the base vehicles.
- The special edition Comet EV costs an additional Rs 16, 000.
- A new exterior hue, a blacked-out interior, and a personalized infotainment touchscreen are included with the 100-Year Edition.
Except for the Gloster, MG has lately introduced a special edition for all of its models in India. The MG Astor, Hector, Hector Plus, Comet EV, and ZS EV models are the ones that have the 100-Year Limited Edition available on them. This limited edition honors MG’s more than a century-long racing heritage. These special editions come with the following features and prices.
Price
| Model | Variant | Special Edition | Standard Variant | Difference |
| MG Astor | Sharp Pro 1.5 Petrol MT | Rs 14.81 lakh | Rs 14.61 lakh | + Rs 20,000 |
| Sharp Pro 1.5 Petrol CVT | Rs 16.08 lakh | Rs 15.88 lakh | + Rs 20,000 | |
| MG Hector | Sharp Pro Petrol CVT 5 Seater | Rs 21.20 lakh | Rs 21 lakh | + Rs 20,000 |
| Sharp Pro Petrol CVT 7 Seater | Rs 21.93 lakh | Rs 21.73 lakh | + Rs 20,000 | |
| MG Comet EV | Exclusive FC | Rs 9.40 lakh | Rs 9.24 lakh | + Rs 16,000 |
| MG ZS EV | Exclusive Plus | Rs 24.18 lakh | Rs 23.98 lakh | + Rs 20,000 |
The Comet EV special edition is offered on the top-spec Exclusive FC variation, which was added a while back, while the Astor, Hector, and ZS EV special editions are based on the mid-spec variants. This limited edition is available on both the manual and CVT versions of the Astor small SUV from MG.
This limited edition Hector is available with both a 5-seater and a 7-seater (Hector Plus) configuration and with a choice of gasoline or diesel engines. The Hector and Hector Plus gasoline manual versions are not compatible with this special edition, and MG has not yet disclosed the cost of the diesel versions.
Modifications
This special edition is available for all MG vehicles. Inspired by the British Racing Green color, the façade features a black roof along with other blacked-out details in the hue “Evergreen.” Black or dark chrome components have taken the place of the outside chrome pieces. A “100-Year Edition” badging is also added to the tailgate of all models.
The interior of these editions is completely black, with a black dashboard, green and black upholstery, and ‘100-Year Edition’ badging on the headrests of the front seats. These premium models also include a customizable widget and an “Evergreen” colored motif for the touchscreen infotainment system.
Additional Special Editions
The Astor, Hector, and Gloster are also available in a “Blackstorm” edition, which has an all-black exterior and interior with red inserts. This is not the only special edition in MG’s portfolio. Those limited editions don’t look quite as unique as this 100-Year Edition, though.
News & Top StoriesHere Are 5 Advantages The Maruti Dzire 2024 May Have Over The Current Model
The new-generation Maruti Swift is anticipated to be released shortly, followed by the 2024 Maruti Dzire. It is anticipated that the new generation Dzire will have an improved petrol engine, a plethora of new amenities, and a revamped exterior and interior appearance. The main improvements over the current model that the 2024 Dzire is anticipated to bring are listed below.
A brand-new 9-inch touchscreen
A significant upgrade anticipated for the Maruti Dzire of 2024 is the larger 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. This entertainment system is available with various Maruti vehicles, including the Baleno, Fronx, Grand Vitara, and Jimny. It also supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
The 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that comes standard with the latest Maruti Dzire only supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto when connected via a wire.
Sunroof
Based on internet claims of spy test mules, the next generation Maruti Dzire is anticipated to come with a single-pane sunroof. If reports are accurate, the 2024 Dzire will be the first subcompact sedan in India to come equipped with a sunroof, a feature that is incredibly popular these days, even if it isn’t particularly useful.
A wireless charger
In the 2024 model, wireless smartphone charging may be another new option for the Maruti Dzire. With this feature, there is no longer any need for cables to hang around the center console, which can cause problems when switching gears. This can result in a console experience that is less cluttered when combined with the new entertainment device that has wireless smartphone connectivity.
As Standard, 6 Airbags
The 2024 Maruti Dzire will probably have six airbags as standard equipment on all versions for increased safety. Although the government rule requiring six airbags has not yet been enacted, competitors like Hyundai have already done so, and the next-generation Swift hatchback will also feature them.
New 1.2-litre Z Series Petrol
The new 1.2-liter Z series 3-cylinder petrol engine, which is scheduled to make its Indian debut with the next-generation Swift, will be available in the Maruti Dzire since the two vehicles share mechanical foundations. This engine can generate 112 Nm and 82 PS, and it will probably be available with a 5-speed AMT or a 5-speed manual transmission.
Anticipated Cost & Competitors
It is anticipated that the Maruti Dzire 2024 will go on sale in June 2024, with a starting price of Rs 6.70 lakh (ex-showroom). It will still face competition from the Honda Amaze, Tata Tigor, and Hyundai Aura.
News & Top StoriesMore over half of Maruti’s pending orders are for CNG vehicles.
During a recent investor conference, Maruti Suzuki disclosed that 1.11 lakh CNG vehicles were still pending delivery by the end of the last fiscal quarter (FY). Approximately 2 lakh orders have not yet been fulfilled by the automaker for clients.
Information On The Upcoming Orders
It was also mentioned in the meeting that the Maruti Ertiga MPV accounts for almost 30% of all outstanding CNG orders. Maruti Suzuki’s chief investor relations officer, Rahul Bharti, stated: “One significant vehicle that has a lot of CNG traction in the market is the Ertiga. Therefore, the Ertiga supply constraint is substantially addressed by Manesar’s 100,000 capacity.
More than half of Maruti Suzuki’s CNG sales, according to senior executive officer of sales and marketing Shashank Srivastava, came from the Ertiga back in November 2023.
Toyota has also reinstated reservations for the CNG versions of the Rumion MPV, which is based on the Ertiga.
An update on CNG sales and plans
After shipping about 4.5 lakh CNG models in the previous fiscal year, Maruti now intends to sell about 6 lakh units in the current fiscal year, FY24–25. During the same conference, the automaker confirmed that to fulfill the increasing demand, it intends to increase the production of CNG cars. Maruti conceded that there were some problems with the supply chain, but it also said that things have improved.