Author: Hasnain Ali

Working as an auto analyst, the latest spy shots from India have ended the mystery. These clear images confirm the spotted test mule is a new, fully electric SUV, with all signs pointing to a made-for-India product. From my experience covering vehicle testing, seeing a vehicle in a convoy of three identical test mules is a significant sign. It tells me Hyundai has absolutely entered a crucial, advanced stage of final testing on public roads. After the initial sighting yesterday, these new angles captured in Mumbai city traffic are invaluable—they reveal the critical front and rear design details that camouflaged…

The 2026 Indian Chief Vintage is a rolling tribute to history, directly honoring the legendary Chief model from the post-World War 2 era of the 1940s. The US-based brand Indian Motorcycle has just unveiled the 2026 Indian Chief Vintage, a model that deeply pays homage to its heritage. It takes direct styling inspiration from the iconic original Chief motorcycle of the post-World War 2 era, specifically the 1940s. Reflecting the brand’s “Never Finished” spirit, this bike was introduced to commemorate the monumental 125th anniversary of Indian Motorcycle. It’s a fitting tribute, considering the vintage Chief model’s were developed on the…

The Mahindra Thar Roxx Star Edition makes a clear statement with its exclusive RWD (Rear-Wheel Drive) configuration. This unique powertrain for the Roxx Star model offers a choice between a sturdy diesel and a peppy turbo petrol engine, setting a distinct tone for this special Edition. Pricing & Visual Strategy Having seen many special models come and go, Mahindra’s strategy with the latest Thar Roxx Star Edition feels familiar yet effective. This new edition sits between Rs. 16.85 lakh and Rs. 18.35 lakh (ex-showroom), making it the most expensive variant in the Roxx lineup. For consumers, this starting price brings…

Citroën is using a unique, customer-first approach. The new Aircross X Max Turbo and C3 Live (O) will be sold only by confirmed booking. Citroën India has now officially opened bookings for its two new variants, adopting a customer-centric strategy. The spotlight is on the top-tier Aircross X Max Turbo, a comfort-focused configuration positioned at the peak of the Aircross range, and the distinct C3 Live (O). From what I’ve seen in the market, the key detail is that both models will be available strictly on a bookings-only basis. This means their entire production cycle is directly aligned to confirmed…

For Yamaha Fascino 125 and RayZR 125 owners, a recall is underway to replace a specific part at no cost. Simply visit an authorised service centre for the free repair. Yamaha Issues Major Recall for Popular 125cc Scooters If you ride a Fascino 125 or RayZR 125, here’s important news. Yamaha Motor has issued a major safety recall in the country, involving a staggering 306,635 units of these scooters. The company announced that select units manufactured between May 2, 2024, and September 3, 2025, are affected due to a potential issue with the front brake. According to the two-wheeler maker,…

In my analysis of the CY2025 market, one gainer stood out decisively: Mahindra. They secured the title of biggest performer by achieving the highest volume increase—a remarkable jump of 97,739 units. This surge didn’t just boost their numbers; it rocketed them to finish second in the overall sales table for the very first time, recording a landmark achievement that redefined the competitive landscape. In my years of analysing market trends, I’ve learned that real growth in the passenger vehicle market isn’t random. The past year clearly showed an apparent and significant change in the industry’s pecking order. This shift wasn’t…

Choosing a CNG powertrain is about confidence as much as cost. In my experience, the real peace of mind comes from factory-fitted systems, a domain dominated by OEMs like Maruti Suzuki, Tata, and Hyundai with their dedicated variants. While other brands offer Government-approved retrofit kits at the dealer level, a built-from-the-ground-up CNG option represents a superior commitment to engineering and safety—the exact standard a Skoda Kylaq CNG would need to meet. We’ve seen OEMs like Citroen, Renault, and Nissan use clever powertrain strategy to grow. Now, Skoda Auto India could follow with the Kylaq. A CNG version of this B-segment…

The highly anticipated latest flagship SUV from Volkswagen, the Tayron R-Line, is set to launch in India. From my analysis, its most significant challenge will be competing against its platform sibling, the upcoming Skoda Kodiaq RS. The Road to Assembly and the Platform’s Promise From my experience following automotive launches, the decision for local assembly in Maharashtra is a strategic masterstroke. It tells me Volkswagen is deeply serious about the Indian market. Assembling the upcoming Tayron R-Line at their plant in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (the city formerly known as Aurangabad) isn’t just about logistics; it’s a commitment. This seven-seater flagship SUV…

For the 2026 model year, the Skoda Kylaq series has strategically gained two new variants. From what I’ve seen, this move is a smart play to expand the range and cater to more buyers by adding a host of desirable new features and updated technologies, making the lineup more competitive than ever. Skoda India has cleverly revised the Kylaq lineup, strategically adding two new trims: the Classic+ and the Prestige+. This move is all about expanding the appeal of this popular compact SUV. The newly introduced Classic+ is priced at an attractive Rs. 8.25 lakh, while the new flagship Prestige+…

The VinFast VF6 and VF7 electric SUVs have made headlines for their competitive pricing at Indian entry. Now, they’ve bagged a full 5-star crash test rating, solidifying their strong start. Top Safety Ratings from Bharat NCAP According to the official Bharat NCAP test results, both the VF 6 and VF 7 have impressively achieved 5-star ratings in the two core safety categories. Looking at the details, the VF 6 recorded 27.13/32 points in Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) and a strong 44.41/49 points in Child Occupant Protection (COP). Not to be outdone, the VinFast VF 7 achieved even higher figures with…