News & Top StoriesThis Week’s Important Auto News (May 27–31): New Teasers, Patents, New Spy Photos, and More
In addition to a major Porsche debut, the Mahindra XUV.e8‘s interior and the Tata Altroz Racer were teased during the final week of May 2024. Along with learning about this noteworthy accomplishment, we also saw some spy photos of the future Tata Curvv. The main stories from the previous week are briefly summarized here:
Altroz Racer Teased
Tata Motors has shown a few teasers for the future Altroz Racer, indicating that this hot hatch will be available shortly after undergoing intensive testing on our roads. For a small cost of up to Rs 21,000, which may vary depending on the dealership, customers may now book the Altroz Racer offline at a few Tata dealerships. The Tata Altroz Racer will have the same 120PS turbo-petrol engine from the Nexon along with revised exterior and interior design components.
Patented components of Mahindra XUV.e8
Recently, multiple test drives of the Mahindra XUV.e8, an all-electric variant of the Mahindra XUV700, have been observed. Mahindra has now submitted a patent application for a three-screen integrated dashboard layout and a new steering wheel design. The design patent illustration shows that the steering wheel will have two spokes and be octagonal. It’s also possible that Mahindra will put an illuminated emblem in the middle of the steering wheel. The instrument cluster, an infotainment screen, and a separate screen for the front passenger are all part of the three-screen dashboard arrangement that the carmaker has also patented.
Tata Curvv spied
Images of the Tata Curvv coupe-SUV test mules have been circulating for a while. But this time, we managed to catch a glimpse of the SUV’s taillights. According to the spy photos, it will receive connected LED taillights in February 2024, just like the idea. These taillights, like those on several facelifted Tata cars including the Nexon, Harrier, and Safari, are probably going to have welcome and goodbye animations coupled with a sequential effect for the turn indicators.
Over 15 lakh cars have been produced by Skoda-VW in India.
Skoda Automobile Over 15 lakh Volkswagen India vehicles have been built there, including 3 lakh Skoda Kushaq and Slavia and a combined 3 lakh Volkswagen Taigun and Virtus. At its plant in Chakan, the firm has also produced more than 3.8 lakh engines. Additionally, the Skoda-VW Group has exported 30% of its cars built in India to over 40 nations.
Porsche 911 Carrera and GTS launched in India
The 911 Carrera and 911 Carrera 4 GTS are new Porsche models that retail for Rs 1.99 crore and Rs 2.75 crore, respectively. Reservations for both models are now being accepted, and by year’s end, deliveries are anticipated to begin. A redesigned 3-liter twin-turbo flat-six engine with 394 PS and 450 Nm powers the 911 Carrera. A new 3.6-liter turbocharged T-hybrid engine with 541 PS and 610 Nm powers the 911 Carrera 4 GTS. The GTS’s external characteristics include sports exhaust at the back and active-aero components upfront. These new 911s come equipped with an upgraded infotainment system and a fully digital driver’s display inside.
Unveiled: Audi Q6 e-tron Performance version
With just one engine available, Audi has launched a new Q6 Performance model with rear-wheel drive. It has an electric motor mounted on the back axle that generates 326 PS and is powered by a 100 kWh battery. It can go from 0 to 100 kmph in 6.6 seconds and has a range of 641 kilometers. The Q6 e-tron Quattro and SQ6 e-tron will be positioned above this new Performance model. Although the interiors are unknown, it is anticipated to have the same features and cabin as the other Q6 e-Tron models.
News & Top StoriesSee: This is how Maruti Swift prices have increased over the years since 2005.
One of the most well-liked hatchbacks in India, the Maruti Swift, arrived on our shores in 2005. Its functions and design have improved over time with a few generational updates and facelifts since then. With each new upgrade, Swift’s costs in India have risen in addition to these modifications. Let’s look at the changes in these prices over the last almost twenty years.
Prices From 2005 Up Until Now
| Model | Price Range |
| First-gen Maruti Swift 2005 | Rs 3.87 lakh To Rs 4.85 Lakh |
| Second-gen Maruti Swift 2011 | Rs 4.22 Lakh To Rs 6.38 Lakh |
| Second-gen Maruti Swift Facelift 2014 | Rs 4.42 Lakh To Rs 6.95 Lakh |
| Third-gen Maruti Swift 2018 | Rs 4.99 Lakh To Rs 8.29 Lakh |
| Third-gen Maruti Swift Facelift 2021 | Rs 5.73 Lakh To Rs 8.41 Lakh |
| Fourth-gen Maruti Swift 2024 (current) | Rs 6.49 lakh To Rs 9.64 Lakh (introductory) |
Prices are all ex-showroom.
Three generations of improvements have been made to the Swift, with facelifts also going to the second and third-generation vehicles. When the Swift made its Indian debut in 2005, it cost Rs 3.87 lakh. In 2024, the starting price is Rs 2.62 lakh more than it was before.
Comparably, the top-spec Swift was priced at Rs 4.85 lakh in 2005; today, it fetches Rs 9.64 lakh, a substantial rise of Rs 4.79 lakh. The starting price of the Maruti Alto K10, which is Rs 12,000 higher than the Maruti Swift 2005, is Rs 3.99 lakh, making it the most inexpensive hatchback available in India today.
Swift 2024 Features
The most recent edition of the Swift is well-equipped with features including an automated air conditioning system with rear vents, a 6-speaker music system tuned by Arkamys, and a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It also has connected car technology, cruise control, push-button start/stop, and wireless phone charging.
Six airbags (on all models), a rear parking camera, a hill hold assist, electronic stability control, and rear parking sensors all contribute to passenger safety.
Swift 2024 Powertrain
The new Z series 3-cylinder petrol engine powers the Swift 4th generation vehicle. Here are the specifics of its specifications:
| Engine | 1.2-litre 3-cylinder Z series petrol |
| Power | 82 PS |
| Torque | 112 Nm |
| Transmission | 5-speed MT / 5-speed AMT |
| Claimed Mileage | 24.8 kmpl (MT) / 25.75 kmpl (AMT) |
The CNG powertrain option, which was available with the previous generation model, is not available with the 2024 Swift at this time. Nevertheless, Maruti is anticipated to unveil it in the upcoming months.
Competitors
Due to its pricing, the 2024 Maruti Swift competes with the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios and, given its size, can also be considered a cheaper alternative to the Renault Triber and smaller SUVs like the Hyundai Exter and Tata Punch.
News & Top StoriesTata Altroz Racer Could Outperform Regular Altroz With These 7 Features
The Hyundai i20 N Line will be directly rivaled in India by the Tata Altroz Racer, which is scheduled to go on sale in June. The racer will be powered by a 1.2-liter turbo-petrol engine that produces 120 PS and is derived from the Tata Nexon. In addition to having a more potent engine, the Altroz Racer will also come with a new suite of amenities that aren’t available in the regular versions of the premium hatchback.
Greater Touchscreen Size
The Tata Altroz Racer‘s infotainment system is one of the biggest upgrades. It will have a larger 10.25-inch unit that is taken from the recently released Tata Punch EV and Tata Nexon. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also supported by this system.
At the moment, the 7-inch touchscreen interface found on all ordinary variants of the Tata Altroz is limited to wired connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
New Driver’s Display, Completely Digital
The Tata Altroz model that is currently in production has a 7-inch semi-digital instrument cluster. The driver’s display on the “Racer” model will be completely digital and the same size at 7 inches.
Heads Up Display
A heads-up display is another feature that sets the Tata Altroz Racer apart from the standard Altroz. It does not need the driver to glance away from the road as it projects data such as current speed, clock, RPM, and instant fuel economy onto a small glass piece that is positioned higher than the instrument cluster. In the premium hatchback market, the Maruti Baleno and Toyota Glanza are the only vehicles that currently provide this function.
Wireless Charging of Phones
Although it isn’t available yet, wireless phone charging will probably be available for the standard Altroz model along with the Altroz Racer. It gets rid of the cable that hangs around the center console and could obstruct shifting gears.
Front seats with ventilation
Tata may provide ventilated front seats for the Altroz Racer. The Altroz Racer will be the first high-end hatchback in India to have this technology if it is made available. Because the seat ventilation helps children cool down fast, this feature is especially helpful during the hottest summers.
360-degree Camera
In addition to a larger touchscreen, the Tata Altroz Racer will also have a 360-degree camera. Moreover, during the Altroz Racer’s testing, this trait was seen. A 360-degree perspective makes it easier to maneuver the automobile through dense urban traffic and park in limited spots.
Six airbags
The Altroz Racer will get six airbags, which is one of the most significant safety upgrades. Even in the top-spec model, the standard Tata Altroz only has dual front airbags at the moment.
Anticipated Cost
It is anticipated that the Tata Altroz Racer will cost starting at Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom). It will compete with the Hyundai i20 N Line.
News & Top StoriesThe Top 7 Cheapest 7-Seater SUVs in India That Are Ideal For Large Families
India’s growing popularity of SUVs is attested to by the variety of SUV body styles available there, ranging from micro- to full-sized SUVs. Furthermore, three-row SUVs have entered the mainstream market as a result of SUVs’ rising appeal, making sure that big families may still enjoy SUVs.
Seating capacity is one of the most important requirements in a country as diverse as India, where client needs differ greatly. With configurations ranging from four to seven seats, SUVs in India satisfy this need by offering a wide range of options across several sectors. We have compiled a list of the seven most reasonably priced 7-seater SUV alternatives available in India.
Mahindra Bolero Neo: Rs 9.95 lakh
In India, the most reasonably priced seven-seater SUV on the market is the Mahindra Bolero Neo. The base N4 model, which costs Rs 9.95 lakh, has a 1.5-liter diesel engine that produces 100 PS and 260 Nm of torque. It is coupled to a 5-speed manual gearbox. Additionally, the top-tier models include a mechanical locking differential at the back.
Mahindra Bolero: Rs 9.98 lakh
After more than 20 years of sales in the nation, consumers seeking a tough substitute for comparably priced monocoque SUVs have continued to choose the Mahindra Bolero. The most recent model of the seven-seat Bolero is priced at Rs 9.98 lakh. Its 1.5-liter diesel engine produces 210 Nm and 76 PS. It is connected to a manual 5-speed transmission. Comparing the Bolero to its rivals, though, shows how outdated it has become, and a generational redesign is anticipated for the SUV by 2026.
Citroen C3 Aircross: Rs 11.96 lakh
In and of itself, the Citroen C3 Aircross is a rather special offering. Citroen went above and beyond by providing the option of two additional seats in the rear while maintaining affordable pricing, something that other compact SUV manufacturers only provide in 5-seater configurations. The 7-seater is the most reasonably priced model on the list, with a starting price of Rs 11.96 lakh, while the 5-seater variations start at Rs 9.99 lakh. Its 1.2-liter turbo-petrol engine produces 110 horsepower and 206 torque. Either a 6-speed torque converter transmission or a 6-speed manual gearbox is included.
Mahindra Scorpio Classic: Rs 13.59 lakh
The automaker decided to continue selling the second-generation Mahindra Scorpio alongside the new SUV, albeit with certain modifications and a new moniker (Scorpio Classic), even after the third-generation model was introduced as the Scorpio N in India. To accommodate various buyer profiles, the older generation Scorpio is still available for purchase. There are only two models with seven and nine seats, which makes things simpler. A 2.2-liter diesel engine producing 300 Nm and 132 PS powers it. The manual transmission has six speeds.
Mahindra Scorpio N: Rs 13.85 lakh
The third generation of the Mahindra Scorpio brand, the Scorpio N, has better powertrains and additional features. The layouts with six and seven seats are likewise available. The base price of the seven-seater Scorpio N is Rs 13.85 lakh. You can choose between a 2.0-liter turbo-petrol engine (203 PS/380 Nm) and a 2.2-liter diesel engine (132 PS/300 Nm) at this pricing. Rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) are the other two drivetrain options.
Tata Safari: Rs 16.19 lakh
In our market, the automaker’s premier three-row vehicle is the Tata Safari. Prices for it start at Rs 16.19 lakh and it comes in 6- and 7-seater versions. Its 2-liter diesel engine produces 350 Nm and 170 PS. It can be had with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission, which both provide the front wheels with power. Although it is not currently available, a gasoline engine is anticipated to be added shortly. Additionally, an electric vehicle (EV) version of the SUV is being developed, with a 2025 debut anticipated.
Hyundai Alcazar: Rs 16.78 lakh
When seeking a larger SUV that can accommodate six or seven people, consider the Hyundai Alcazar instead of the Creta. A 1.5-liter turbo-petrol engine (160 PS / 253 Nm) mated to a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DCT (dual-clutch automatic transmission) and a 1.5-liter diesel engine (116 PS / 250 Nm) mated to a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission are the two engine options available.
The MG Hector Plus (Rs 17 lakh), the 5-door Force Gurkha (Rs 18 lakh), and the Mahindra XUV700 (Rs 16.89 lakh) were other SUVs that were nearly as good but did not make the list.
News & Top StoriesWhat Every Maruti Swift 2024 Variant Offers Is This
After a delayed debut, the new Maruti Swift 2024 is now available in India for as little as Rs 6.50 lakh (ex-showroom). The upgraded Swift has a new engine and is now loaded with many additional capabilities. It is available in five broad variants: Lxi, Vxi, Vxi (O), Zxi, and Zxi+. Determine which Maruti hatchback version best meets your demands if you intend to purchase one.
Swift Lxi
Price: Rs 6.50 lakh
The following features are included in the new Swift base-spec variant:
| Exterior | Interior | Infotainment | Comfort & Convenience | Safety |
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| None |
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There is no infotainment available on the base-spec version, but it does include some convenience and comfort amenities and is well-equipped for safety. The Lxi model with low specs only has a manual transmission.
Swift Vxi
Price: Rs 7.30 lakh to Rs 7.80 lakh
| Exterior | Interior | Infotainment | Comfort & Convenience | Safety |
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The VXi variation which is one step beyond the standard model has minor external modifications but a relatively little safety package upgrade. It does, however, come with a useful entertainment suite that includes wireless smartphone connectivity and a 4-speaker sound system. You also have the choice of a 5-speed automatic manual transmission (AMT) starting with this version.
Swift Vxi (O)
Price: Rs 7.57 lakh to Rs 8.07 lakh
The hatchback’s mid-spec Vxi (O) model is equipped with the following added features:
| Exterior | Interior | Infotainment | Comfort & Convenience | Safety |
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For an additional Rs 27,000, the hatchback’s Vxi (O) model offers a few more comfort amenities but not much more than the Vxi variation. However, starting with this version, you also receive Suzuki Connect, Maruti’s linked automobile feature.
Swift Zxi
Price: Rs 8.30 lakh to Rs 8.80 lakh
Compared to the mid-spec Vxi model, the one-below-top Zxi variation has the following features:
| Exterior | Interior | Infotainment | Comfort & Convenience | Safety |
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| None |
Along with a ton of comfort and convenience options including a height-adjustable driver seat, automatic climate control, and a wireless phone charger, this hatchback version gets visual upgrades. This version of the new Swift is predicted to be the most popular since it comes with all the expected conveniences and a premium appearance.
Swift Zxi+
Price: Rs 9 lakh to Rs 9.65 lakh
The top-spec Swift model offers the following features above the Zxi variant:
| Exterior | Interior | Infotainment | Comfort & Convenience | Safety |
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A few feature additions are made to the top-spec model of the new Swift in every sector. It provides more luxurious interiors, more safety, and an updated infotainment system. Dual-tone exterior shades are another option available with this model, although they come at an additional cost of Rs 15,,000.
Every price is ex-showroom.
These were the new Maruti Swift’s variant-specific features. Which of these versions, in your opinion, is the most useful and provides the greatest value? Tell us in the comments section below.
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.