News & Top StoriesOnce more, a new generation Kia Carnival was observed being tested in hilly terrain.
- Once more, high in the mountains, the Kia Carnival facelift was being spied on while testing in India.
- anticipated to debut later in 2024.
- has a revised external design, with a larger grille and new front-end styling.
- It is anticipated that the interior will resemble the worldwide model but have more technology than previously.
- It is anticipated that the next generation Carnival will cost more than Rs 30 lakh.
The Kia Carnival is scheduled to make a comeback to the nation in its most recent incarnation after being discontinued in 2023. The high-end MPV has been observed testing once more ahead of its launch, this time in Himachal Pradesh’s high-altitude areas. While we wait for the new generation India-spec Kia Carnival to make its debut, check out what we can see on this test mule.
What’s Fresh
Even with the camouflage wrap, the most recent spy photos offer a closer look at the forthcoming MPV’s front-end design. With its new LED headlight arrangement and L-shaped LED daytime running lights (DRLs), it shares a design language with the Kia EV9. Compared to the previous Carnival that was sold in India, the front fascia appears larger, with a wider grille and a more upright nose.
The side and rear profiles of the MPV were also seen, albeit disguised, in an earlier test mule. Interestingly, we noticed a brushed aluminum skid plate in the front in the spy photos, but this test mule either lacks it or has it hidden behind the camouflage. Go here to read the story.
Expected Features and Interiors
We may presume that the technology and design of the forthcoming Kia Carnival, built for the Indian market, would resemble those of the global model even though we haven’t seen the interiors. Consequently, it ought to include a single curved glass pane that combines two 12.3-inch screens. It can also have a panoramic sunroof, wireless phone charging, powered and ventilated seats, a three-zone automatic air conditioning system with revised air vents, and a rear-seat entertainment system with two screens for passengers in the second row.
Engine and Performance
Although Kia has not released official information regarding the powertrain specifications of the upcoming Carnival for India, we anticipate that it will only be available with one engine option that is paired with an automatic transmission. It is available worldwide with a 1.6-liter petrol-hybrid (242 PS/367 Nm) and a 3.5-liter V6 petrol (287 PS/353 Nm). A 2.2-liter diesel engine producing 200 horsepower and 440 Nm paired with an 8-speed automated gearbox was offered for the earlier Carnival.
Cost and Competitors
The 2024 Kia Carnival may have starting costs beyond Rs 30 lakh (ex-showroom). It is anticipated to be less expensive than luxury MPVs like the Toyota Vellfire and Lexus LM, but a more opulent and high-end substitute for the Toyota Innova Hycross.
News & Top StoriesThe price of MG Hector and Hector Plus increases by up to Rs 30,000.
- The price increase for the MG Hector‘s five-seater model is up to Rs 22,000.
- Right now, its price ranges from Rs 13.99 lakh to Rs 22.24 lakh.
- Conversely, there has been a price increase of up to Rs 30,000 for the Hector Plus.
- The current price range for the MG Hector Plus is Rs 18.20 lakh to Rs 23.08 lakh.
The MG Hector and Hector Plus SUVs will now cost you extra money because the company has announced a Rs 30,000 price hike for all variants of both vehicles. The SUV pair’s Blackstorm version is likewise subject to this hike. Let’s examine their updated prices according to variants.
MG Hector
| Variant | Old Price | New Price | Difference |
| Petrol Manual | |||
| Style | Rs 13.99 lakh | Rs 13.99 lakh | No difference |
| Shine Pro | Rs 16 lakh | Rs 16.16 lakh | + Rs 16,000 |
| Select Pro | Rs 17.30 lakh | Rs 17.48 lakh | + Rs 18,000 |
| Smart Pro | Rs 18.24 lakh | Rs 18.43 lakh | + Rs 19,000 |
| Sharp Pro | Rs 19.70 lakh | Rs 19.90 lakh | + Rs 20,000 |
| Petrol Automatic | |||
| Shine Pro CVT | Rs 17 lakh | Rs 17.17 lakh | + Rs 17,000 |
| Select Pro CVT | Rs 18.49 lakh | Rs 18.68 lakh | + Rs 19,000 |
| Sharp Pro CVT | Rs 21 lakh | Rs 21.21 lakh | + Rs 21,000 |
| Hector Blackstorm CVT | Rs 21.32 lakh | Rs 21.53 lakh | + Rs 21,000 |
| Savvy Pro CVT | Rs 21.95 lakh | Rs 22.17 lakh | + Rs 22,000 |
| Diesel Manual | |||
| Shine Pro | Rs 17.70 lakh | Rs 17.88 lakh | + Rs 18,000 |
| Select Pro | Rs 18.70 lakh | Rs 18.89 lakh | + Rs 19,000 |
| Smart Pro | Rs 20 lakh | Rs 20 lakh | No difference |
| Sharp Pro | Rs 21.70 lakh | Rs 21.92 lakh | + Rs 22,000 |
| Hector Blackstorm Diesel | Rs 22.02 lakh | Rs 22.24 lakh | + Rs 22,000 |
- The MG Hector’s base-spec Style petrol manual and mid-spec Smart Pro diesel manual models are not impacted by the price increase.
- The price increase for the higher-spec petrol and diesel versions, which include the Blackstorm editions, is as much as Rs 22,000.
- The MG Hector is currently available for between Rs 13.99 lakh and Rs 22.24 lakh.
MG Hector Plus
| Variant | Old Price | New Price | Difference |
| Petrol Manual | |||
| Select Pro 7-seater | Rs 18 lakh | Rs 18.20 lakh | + Rs 20,000 |
| Sharp Pro 6/7-seater | Rs 20.40 lakh | Rs 20.63 lakh | + Rs 23,000 |
| Petrol Automatic | |||
| Sharp Pro CVT 6/7-seater | Rs 21.73 lakh | Rs 21.97 lakh | + Rs 24,000 |
| Hector Plus Blackstorm CVT 7-seater | Rs 22.05 lakh | Rs 22.29 lakh | + Rs 24,000 |
| Savvy Pro CVT 6/7-seater | Rs 22.68 lakh | Rs 22.93 lakh | + Rs 25,000 |
| Diesel Manual | |||
| Style 6/7-seater | Rs 17 lakh | Rs 17.30 lakh | + Rs 30,000 |
| Select Pro 7-seater | Rs 19.60 lakh | Rs 19.82 lakh | + Rs 22,000 |
| Smart Pro 6-seater | Rs 21 lakh | Rs 21.23 lakh | + Rs 23,000 |
| Sharp Pro 7-seater | Rs 22.30 lakh | Rs 22.50 lakh | + Rs 20,000 |
| Sharp Pro 6-seater | Rs 22.51 lakh | Rs 22.76 lakh | + Rs 25,000 |
| Hector Plus Blackstorm 7-seater Diesel | Rs 22.62 lakh | Rs 22.87 lakh | + Rs 25,000 |
| Hector Plus Blackstorm 6-seater Diesel | Rs 22.83 lakh | Rs 23.08 lakh | + Rs 25,000 |
- The diesel versions of the MG Hector Plus have seen a price increase of up to Rs 30,000 in comparison to the petrol version.
- The price difference for the Hector Plus Blackstorm models is now up to Rs 25,000.
- The MG Hector Plus is priced between Rs 18.20 lakh and Rs 23.08 lakh.
Transmission & Engine
The following is a list of the specifications for the turbo-petrol and diesel engines that MG offers for the Hector and Hector Plus:
| Engine | 1.5-litre turbo-petrol | 2-litre diesel |
| Power | 143 PS | 170 PS |
| Torque | 250 PS | 350 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed MT, CVT | 6-speed MT |
The Hector SUV diesel models do not currently come with an automatic transmission option.
Rivals
The Mahindra XUV700 5-seater model, the Tata Harrier, and the higher-spec Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos are also competitors for the MG Hector. Conversely, the has competition from the Tata Safari, Hyundai Alcazar, and the 6- and 7-seat Mahindra XUV700 models.
News & Top StoriesThe Top 10 Vehicles That Will Be Released Throughout 2024
There have been numerous automobile debuts in 2024 thus far, including both facelifts and brand-new models, but there will be a lot more activity in the upcoming months. Many more vehicles from manufacturers like Tata, Mahindra, Kia, Honda, and Citroen will be introduced. These ten cars are the most anticipated of the group, even though the list of incoming cars is endless.
Tata Altroz Racer
Launch Date Anticipated: June 2024
Anticipated Cost: starting at Rs 10 lakh.
Tata has a lot of new models coming out this year, including the Tata Altroz Racer, which was introduced with great fanfare earlier this year. It wasn’t until the Auto Expo 2023 that it was initially hinted at and its launch date was ultimately confirmed. This will be the sportier variant of the Altroz hatchback, with new features, modified styling, and—above all—a potent 120 PS turbo-petrol engine taken from the Nexon. Reservations are now being accepted, and it has already been discovered a few times without a disguise.
New-gen Maruti Dzire
Launch Date Anticipated: June 2024
Anticipated Cost: starting at Rs 7 lakh.
The new Maruti Dzire isn’t too far away, as Maruti introduced the new Swift in India in May 2024. With a new 1.2-liter petrol engine, a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, six airbags, and revised climate controls, the upgraded sedan is anticipated to be released soon. It is anticipated to have an upgraded look as well, and it might bring a sunroof to the sub-$4,000 sedan class.
Kia EV9
Launch Date Anticipated: June 2024
Anticipated Cost: starting at Rs 80 lakh.
This year, Kia will introduce its flagship electric SUV, the Kia EV9, to the Indian market. After the EV6, this will be the company’s second electric vehicle in India. This SUV is available in international markets with a 99.8 kWh battery pack and rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. With amenities like twin 12.3-inch screens, a 14-speaker Meridian sound system, heated and ventilated front seats, nine airbags, a 360-degree camera, and ADAS, the Kia EV9 has a WLTP-claimed range of up to 680 kilometers.
Hyundai Alcazar Facelift
Launch Date Anticipated: June 2024
Anticipated Cost: starting at Rs 17 lakh.
We anticipate Hyundai will upgrade its three-row variant as well after the facelifted Hyundai Creta is introduced in January 2024. The updated Hyundai Alcazar is anticipated to come with a panoramic sunroof, multiple airbags, ADAS, dual 10.25-inch screens, dual-zone climate control, ventilated front seats, wireless phone charger, and a 360-degree camera in addition to its gasoline and diesel engines.
Tata Curvv EV
Launch Date Anticipated: July 2024
Anticipated Cost: starting at Rs 20 lakh.
The Curvv EV is another new Tata car for this year. The Acti. ev platform from Tata will serve as the foundation for this coupe-SUV, which is anticipated to have a 500 km stated range. Features of the electric SUV include a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display, heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, a 360-degree camera, an infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and an advanced driving assistance system (ADAS).
Mahindra Thar 5 Door
Launch Date Anticipated: August 2024
Anticipated Cost: starting at Rs 15 lakh.
The five-door Mahindra Thar has been in development for a very long time, and occasionally fresh spy photos of the large off-road vehicle appear online, providing fresh information. With both rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive powertrain options, the extended Thar is anticipated to have the same engine options as its three-door counterpart. It will also be equipped with features like a digital driver’s display, dual-zone climate control, a large touchscreen infotainment system (probably measuring 10.25 inches), and a sunroof.
Citroen Basalt
Launch Date Anticipated: August 2024
Anticipated Cost: starting at Rs 11 lakh.
The automaker’s newest model for the Indian market, the Citroen Basalt, was introduced some time ago. The coupe-SUV is expected to be equipped with a 1.2-liter turbo-petrol engine, available with a manual or automatic transmission, just as the C3 and C3 Aircross. Features including a wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay system, a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 7-inch digital driver’s display, six airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), and a rearview camera are anticipated.
Tata Curvv
Launch Date Anticipated: August 2024
Anticipated Cost: starting at Rs 10.50 lakh.
The automaker will introduce the Tata Curvv, an ICE variant, following the release of the Curvv EV. With a few minor adjustments, the design will be identical to that of the electric version. It is anticipated to be offered with turbo-petrol and diesel engine options. Along with having the same screen arrangement, ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and even ADAS technologies, its feature list is also anticipated to be comparable to that of its electric version. It will compete with vehicles such as the Skoda Kushaq, Maruti Grand Vitara, Hyundai Creta, and Kia Seltos.
Mahindra XUV e8
Launch Date Anticipated: December 2024
Anticipated Cost: starting at Rs 35 lakh.
This year will also see the release of the Mahindra XUV e8, the XUV 700’s electric variant. It will be built on the automaker’s INGLO platform, which is capable of handling 60 and 80-kWh batteries. With a WLTP-claimed range of up to 450 km, Mahindra may sell the electric XUV700 in both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. Features including a panoramic sunroof, six airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), an integrated triple-screen configuration, and ADAS will be included.
New-gen Honda Amaze
Launch Date Anticipated: Unknown
Anticipated Cost: starting at Rs 7.50 lakh.
This year will see the release of Honda‘s next-generation Amaze, which has been overdue for an update. While there aren’t many details available, it will have a redesigned interior with features like wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a larger touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control, and a safety kit that may include six airbags, ESC, TPMS, and a rearview camera. It is anticipated that the car will use the same 1.2-liter gasoline engine seen in the current generation.
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 StoriesHow It Works: Toll Plazas Will Be Replaced with a Satellite-Based Toll Collection System
Before FASTags were launched in 2014, highway tolls were only collected in cash or with cards more than ten years ago. FASTags, which are only required for every single automobile and toll booth starting in January 2021, expedited and improved the toll payment procedure. But, with a new satellite-based toll-collecting system, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari intends to render FASTags and even toll plazas entirely obsolete. This in-depth study will teach you more about this space-age apparatus and its operation.
What Is Toll Collection Based on GPS?
The toll collection plaza, a sizable building that was constructed at great expense and needs a lot of labor to run properly, was the usual location for paying your fees for using a toll road and/or highway. Traffic jams still occur even with FASTag since cars still have to slow down significantly to be scanned through for the toll payment, especially for large commercial vehicles. That being said, the GPS-based toll-collecting system measures the distance your automobile travels using tracking devices and satellites and charges you a toll according to the distance you drive.
How Will It Work
It will take several years for all cars to be fitted with the technology, and the adoption of this new approach won’t be simple. That being said, this is the procedure that will operate if it is carried out properly.
- On-board units, or OBUs, which serve as tracking devices for the toll collection system, must be installed in the vehicles.
- When traveling on freeways and highways, the OBU will track your vehicle’s coordinates. It will then communicate those data with the satellite to determine how far you have traveled.
- The Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), which is used by the GPS (Global Positioning System) to function, will help to maintain the precision of the distance calculation in this system.
- Additionally, cameras will be positioned along these roadways to verify that the distance is being estimated accurately by comparing the vehicle’s coordinates with the captured image. The camera can also assist in identifying which vehicles lack an OBU or may have one disabled by comparing the license plates to data from toll collection and satellite monitoring.
- Initially, just a small number of the nation’s main expressways and highways will have this toll collection system in place.
The OBUs are crucial to this system, just as much as the satellites and the tracking software. However, it needs to be installed externally because cars do not currently have it. Information regarding where and how to obtain these OBUs is currently unavailable, however, it may work similarly to how FASTags worked when they first came out. We anticipate that the procedure will go like this.
- These OBUs will be sold via government websites, much like FASTags. To order one, simply input your car’s registration number and complete a KYC.
- You must link the OBU to your bank account after applying.
- Car manufacturers may simply begin selling their vehicles with OBUs pre-installed at the time of delivery following the installation of this toll collection system, which you can then connect to your bank account.
- Similar to FASTags, OBUs may be sold by banks and private businesses.
- Your associated bank account will be automatically debited from the toll amount after the OBU is installed in the car, based on the distance traveled.
GPS Toll Collection Benefits
- Because the tracking device’s data is communicated directly with the satellite in this process, toll plazas won’t be necessary, making the travel even more convenient and saving you the time you would have to spend standing in line.
- The fact that customers only pay for the portion of the highways they utilize is another benefit of this approach. At the moment, it can be challenging to keep an eye on the entry and exit points of toll highways and roads, and you may be required to pay for the entire distance between toll plazas. These expenses would be reduced by the GPS-based system, which is particularly beneficial for cross-country business commutes.
Will It Work In India?
Several nations, including Germany and Singapore, have already used the GPS-based toll collection system, so it is not completely novel. India’s largest challenge is the huge number of roads this system has to monitor and the diverse range of cars on them. To cut costs, the nation is already quite skilled at converting to digital transactions and new technology.
To accomplish this, though, the existing FASTag-based infrastructure will need to be dismantled and new infrastructure will need to be built, which will be costly and take time. The expense of upgrading the entire infrastructure may be borne by the user in the form of higher toll plazas.
For now, India seems to be keeping up with the latest advancements in roadway technologies that could simplify the procedure, such as the GPS-based toll collection system. As the FASTags have shown, adoption and implementation will not be simple. In the end, we estimate that it will take the government ten years to implement it nationwide if they get to work on it right away.
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News & Top Stories2024’s World Car of the Year goes to Kia EV9
Kia EV9 is a World Car
- The title of 2024 World Electric Vehicle has also been given to the EV9.
- The BYD Seal and Volvo EX30 were two more front-runners for the WCOTY 2024 title.
- Kia’s premier three-row electric SUV is the EV9.
- Offering a range of electric motors and battery pack
- versions available for both RWD and AWD worldwide.
- anticipated to cost approximately Rs 80 lakh (ex-showroom) and go to India via the CBU route.
The Kia EV9 was named the winner of the World Car of the Year (WCOTY) competition, shortly after the top three contenders were determined. The EV9 has been named the “2024 World Electric Vehicle” in addition to winning the WCOTY award.
The Title Contest
The BYD Seal, which is also available in India, and the Volvo EX30, which is anticipated to arrive in India, were the other two leading contenders in an all-electric race for the top prize. An automobile must be sold on at least two continents to be eligible for a World Car Awards victory. The Kia EV9 was named the winner by the World Car Awards based on its price, cabin with seven seats, and design. The jury consisted of 100 automotive writers from 29 different nations.
Other 2024 WCOTY Winners
There were more winners at the 2024 World Car Awards besides the Kia EV9. The following models were among the others who won prizes in different categories:
| Model | Award Category |
| BMW 5 Series/ i5 | World Luxury Car |
| Hyundai Ioniq 5 N | World Performance Car |
| Volvo EX30 | World Urban Car |
| Toyota Prius | World Car Design Of The Year |
Additional Kia EV9 Details
Kia’s three-row all-electric SUV comes with multiple electric motors and batteries, and it may be configured with rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). With a stated range of more than 541 kilometers, the EV9 presents a strong case for electrification in place of the conventional luxury SUV powered by a gasoline or diesel engine. Along with its modern design components and large cabin, it also has a fantastic road presence.
India’s Release Date And Cost
It is anticipated that the Kia EV9 will be priced starting at Rs 80 lakh (ex-showroom) when it enters the Indian market through the completely built-up unit (CBU) import route later in 2018. In comparison to high-end electric SUVs like the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV and BMW iX, it might be viewed as an inexpensive substitute.
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