Renault India has officially confirmed that its upcoming all-new SUV will revive one of the brand’s most celebrated nameplates — the Duster. Set to debut on Republic Day, January 26, 2026, the next-generation Duster marks a major milestone in Renault’s renewed focus on the Indian market.

First launched in 2012, the Renault Duster reshaped India’s SUV segment with its rugged design, car-like handling, and unbeatable value. It went on to create a strong legacy, selling over 200,000 units in India and earning a cult following among enthusiasts. Globally, more than 1.8 million Dusters have found homes, solidifying its position as one of Renault’s most successful SUVs.

The new Duster will be the first product under Renault’s “International Game Plan 2027”, and a cornerstone of its India-specific transformation strategy, renault. rethink. Designed to combine modern technology with the Duster’s go-anywhere DNA, the SUV is expected to re-establish Renault as a serious player in the compact SUV market.

Also read: Renault KWID Marks 10 Years with Exclusive Anniversary Edition

Renault has also launched a waiting program for those eager to be among the first to experience the reborn icon. With its legacy, loyal fan base, and promise of rugged charm meeting modern sophistication, the Duster’s comeback is set to reignite the segment it once defined.

Porsche has unveiled a striking new look for its 99X Electric Formula E race car, borrowing the prototype camouflage livery from its upcoming all-electric Cayenne. The design will make its debut during official pre-season testing in Valencia this week, driven by Pascal Wehrlein and Nico Müller, before returning to the team’s signature livery for the racing season.

The shared livery isn’t just a design statement — it symbolizes the close technological synergy between Porsche’s Formula E program and its road-going EVs. Both the Cayenne Electric and the 99X Electric feature cutting-edge energy recuperation systems with up to 600 kW of regenerative power, along with direct oil cooling for the electric motors — a hallmark of Porsche’s first Formula E racer from 2019.

Also read: Porsche Unleashes All-Electric Macan GTS with 571PS and Sharper Dynamics

Adding to the test lineup, racer Gabriela Jílková returns for her third consecutive year behind the wheel of the 99X Electric. A key simulator driver for Porsche’s Formula E project, Jílková previously set records at the Shelsley Walsh hill climb and piloted the Cayenne prototype at Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Following the Valencia sessions, Porsche will ship its race cars to Brazil for the opening round of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship in December. As the reigning teams’ and manufacturers’ champion, Porsche aims to continue its dominance — now with a visual nod to the next generation of electric performance from Stuttgart.

Ducati has launched the 2025 Multistrada V2 in India, introducing a host of updates that make the adventure-tourer lighter, more refined, and more engaging than before. Designed for riders who love the versatility of a twin-cylinder machine, the new Multistrada V2 blends touring comfort with Ducati’s signature sportiness.

For 2025, Ducati has shaved off a remarkable 18 kg, bringing the bike’s weight down to just 199 kg (wet, without fuel). Combined with improved ergonomics, aerodynamics, and handling, the new model promises an even more effortless and enjoyable ride. Powering it is Ducati’s 890cc Testastretta V2 engine with variable intake timing, producing 115 hp at 10,750 rpm and 92 Nm at 8,250 rpm. The engine also boasts long 45,000 km valve clearance intervals, underlining its touring credentials.

Also read: 2025 Ducati Multistrada V4 Debuts with More Tech, Comfort and Efficiency

Styling has been refreshed too, with sportier lines, a shorter tail section, and new DRLs inspired by the Panigale and Multistrada V4. A redesigned silencer delivers a sharper note, further emphasizing its Ducati DNA.

In India, the 2025 Multistrada V2 is available in three variants –

• Multistrada V2 Ducati Red – ₹18.88 lakh

• Multistrada V2 S Ducati Red – ₹20.99 lakh

• Multistrada V2 S Storm Green – ₹21.29 lakh

With its lighter frame, advanced electronics, and touring-ready performance, the Multistrada V2 2025 reaffirms Ducati’s position as a benchmark in the middleweight adventure segment.

In a major milestone for smart mobility in the Middle East, Uber and WeRide have officially launched autonomous robotaxi passenger rides in Riyadh, making Saudi Arabia the first market in the region to host self-driving cars on the Uber platform.

Riders travelling between Roshn Front and Princess Noura University can now book a WeRide Robotaxi GXR, marking a new era in the Kingdom’s transportation ecosystem. The pilot project has been backed by the Transport General Authority (TGA) and follows the autonomous vehicle operations inaugurated by Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, Minister of Transport and Logistics Services and TGA Chairman, earlier this year.

Initially, each robotaxi will have a human operator for monitoring and safety, but the goal is to transition to fully driverless operations in the coming months.

WeRide’s robotaxi is the first in Saudi Arabia to receive an autonomous driving permit, after successfully completing the TGA’s regulatory sandbox programme for testing self-driving technology. This milestone builds on WeRide’s earlier success in the UAE, where it joined the Uber platform in Abu Dhabi at the end of 2024.

The collaboration represents a bold step towards Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals, combining innovation, safety, and sustainability to reshape urban mobility in the region.

Toyota has turned up the heat at the 2025 SEMA Show in Las Vegas with the debut of the Camry GT-S Concept — a bold, performance-focused take on the upcoming 2025 Camry XSE AWD Hybrid. While the powertrain remains unchanged — a 2.5-litre four-cylinder hybrid setup producing 232 hp — the GT-S concept is all about attitude, stance, and visual aggression.

Developed by Toyota’s CALTY Design Research team in Ann Arbor, the concept flaunts a custom “Inferno Flare” exterior finish, enhanced aerodynamics, and an assertive new stance. The chassis sits 1.5 inches lower on adjustable coilovers, complemented by 20-inch performance wheels wrapped in 245/35R20 tyres. To match the visual muscle, Toyota has equipped the GT-S with eight-piston front brake callipers clamping 365mm rotors, and six-piston rears with 356mm rotors for serious stopping power.

Inside, the cabin remains stock, reminding enthusiasts that the Camry’s hybrid practicality and comfort can still coexist with a sporty edge.

Also read: Toyota Reveals Compact Land Cruiser FJ Ahead of 2026 Launch

The Camry GT-S is part of Toyota’s diverse SEMA 2025 lineup, showcasing over two dozen builds powered by everything from petrol and hybrid to BEV and FCEV tech. While Toyota hasn’t hinted at production plans, the GT-S Concept gives a glimpse into how the brand could inject more excitement into its mainstream hybrid lineup.

Maruti Suzuki India has achieved a major milestone as the Jimny 5-Door surpasses 1 lakh units in exports, marking a strong global run since its debut in 2023. The rugged off-roader, manufactured exclusively in India, is now sold in over 100 countries, including key markets like Japan, Mexico, and Australia.

The Jimny’s entry into Japan in January 2025—badged as the Jimny Nomade—created a sensation, with 50,000 orders booked within days. The enthusiastic response from Japan, one of the world’s most discerning auto markets, underscores the SUV’s global appeal and the strength of India’s automotive manufacturing capabilities.

Built on a ladder-frame chassis and equipped with Suzuki’s ALLGRIP PRO 4WD system, the Jimny 5-Door blends traditional off-road toughness with everyday usability. Its 1.5-litre petrol engine delivers reliable performance, making it a go-anywhere SUV that appeals to adventure seekers and purists alike.

Also read: Suzuki Swift Crosses 10 Million Sales Globally, 6 Million in India

With its robust design, compact dimensions, and global acclaim, the Jimny 5-Door stands as a proud example of ‘Make in India’ engineering success, proving that a true off-roader can win hearts both at home and across the world.

General Motors has announced a major leap toward full vehicle autonomy with eyes-off driving capability coming to the Cadillac Escalade IQ in 2028. The feature will debut for highway use and will be complemented by conversational AI features rolling out across GM vehicles next year.

The system uses a fusion of lidar, radar, and cameras to create a real-time perception layer, trained with millions of miles of driving data. Built on GM’s Super Cruise foundation and enhanced with autonomous expertise from Cruise, the setup blends hands-free convenience with AI-driven decision-making. When active, turquoise lighting on the dashboard and mirrors indicates that the Escalade IQ is driving itself.

GM says its Super Cruise has already enabled over 700 million hands-free miles with zero system-related crashes, paving the way for what the company calls its “most trusted and scalable eyes-off technology.” Availability will vary by state due to differing regulations.

Starting next year, GM vehicles will also gain Google Gemini-powered conversational AI, allowing natural voice commands for navigation, messaging, and trip planning — such as finding nearby chargers or prepping for meetings. The automaker is developing its own AI platform for future models, integrated with OnStar to offer maintenance insights, personalised recommendations, and vehicle preconditioning.

Both innovations will run on GM’s next-gen computing architecture, launching in 2028, which promises 35x more AI performance and 1,000x more bandwidth than current systems. Together, they mark a bold step toward a future where GM vehicles can drive, think, and communicate — seamlessly and intelligently.

Porsche has added a new crown jewel to its electric SUV lineup — the Macan GTS, the first-ever all-electric model to wear the iconic GTS badge. Slotting above the Macan 4 and Turbo, the performance-focused variant packs 380kW (516PS) from its dual-motor setup, with 420kW (571PS) available in overboost via Launch Control and a massive 955Nm of torque.

Blistering quick, the Macan GTS rockets from 0–100km/h in 3.8 seconds, hitting 200km/h in 13.3 seconds and topping out at 250km/h. Power comes from a 100kWh battery offering up to 586km WLTP range, with 270kW fast charging taking it from 10–80% in just 21 minutes.

Also read: Porsche Expands Charging Network with New Lounge at Evendorf

Built for drivers who crave performance, the GTS features Porsche Traction Management, Torque Vectoring Plus, and sports air suspension tuned 10mm lower than other Macan EVs. With a 48:52 rear-biased weight balance and the lowest centre of gravity in the lineup, this Macan promises true Porsche agility.

Styling follows GTS tradition with black exterior detailing, Matrix LED headlights, and 21-inch Macan Design wheels, while the cabin is wrapped in Race-Tex upholstery and carbon-fibre trim. The optional GTS Interior Package offers colour-matched detailing in Carmine Red, Slate Grey Neo, or Lugano Blue.

Inside, tech upgrades include AI-powered Voice Pilot, Porsche Digital Key, and enhanced parking assistance. The Electric Sport Sound system adds two distinct GTS sound profiles, completing the performance experience.

In short, the Macan GTS brings Porsche’s GTS spirit into the EV era — a sharper, faster, and more emotional take on electric performance.

Volkswagen Group Africa’s Kariega plant has achieved a major production milestone, rolling out 500,000 units of the current-generation Polo since the facelifted model entered production in August 2021. The landmark car — a striking Kings Red Polo headed for Germany — rolled off the line earlier this month.

The Kariega facility has been the exclusive global production hub for the Polo since July 2024, supplying vehicles to over 30 countries across Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. Out of the 500,000 units produced, 452,207 were exported while 47,793 were built for the South African domestic market. Impressively, nearly two million Polos have been manufactured at Kariega since the model’s production began in 1996.

The achievement reinforces Volkswagen’s dominance in South Africa, where the Polo was named Vehicle of the Year, Top Local Manufacturer, and Top Exported Vehicle at the 2024 Naamsa Accelerator Awards. It also remains South Africa’s most exported car, underlining its global appeal and the plant’s world-class manufacturing standards.

Also read: Volkswagen Bids Farewell to the Touareg with the Exclusive “Final Edition”

This milestone comes just over a year after the Kariega facility was designated the official home of Polo production, further strengthening Volkswagen’s commitment to the region. With its strong export performance and reputation for quality, the Polo continues to be a symbol of precision engineering and reliability, both at home and abroad.

As winter approaches, many drivers will soon notice their car speakers starting to crackle, cut out, or sound muffled. Freezing temperatures put serious strain on vehicle audio systems, causing everything from delayed start-ups to one speaker mysteriously going silent mid-journey.

Kazimieras Urbonas, Supplier Excellence Manager at Ovoko, one of Europe's largest online marketplaces for used car parts, sees these problems every winter through the platform's network of over 4,000 auto dismantlers.

“Cold weather is one of the most common culprits behind audio system failures,” he says. “The symptoms often seem random, but they all point back to how freezing temperatures affect the delicate components inside your audio system.”

With winter just around the corner, Urbonas explains exactly why the cold causes these audio headaches and what you can do to protect your system now.

How Cold Temperatures Affect Car Audio Components

Winter attacks your car's audio system from multiple angles. Speaker surrounds (the flexible edges that allow the cone to move) can become stiff or brittle when temperatures drop. This changes how sound waves are produced, leading to distortion or reduced volume.

“When temperatures drop below freezing, the materials in your speakers contract,” explains Urbonas. “This changes how sound waves are produced, leading to distortion or reduced volume.”

Cold weather also increases resistance in wiring, meaning signals don't travel as efficiently. Your battery works harder to start the engine in freezing conditions too, leaving less power for accessories like your stereo. This results in speakers that sound weak or take longer to start up.

Common Symptoms You'll Experience

Urbonas lists several warning signs that your speakers are being impacted by the weather:

• Crackling or Popping Sounds - Usually points to moisture buildup or loose connections that have contracted in the cold. You'll often hear it most when you first turn the system on.
• Muffled or Weak Sound - If your music sounds like it's playing through a pillow, the speaker cones may have stiffened, preventing proper vibration.
• Delayed Start-Up - Audio taking 30 seconds or more to work typically indicates your battery is struggling in cold conditions.
• One Speaker Cutting Out - Often due to a connection that's contracted in the cold or condensation causing a short circuit.

What's Actually Causing These Issues

• Condensation Damage - When warm air inside your car meets cold surfaces, moisture forms. This can seep into speaker housings, corroding connections and causing short circuits. Door speakers are particularly vulnerable.
• Battery Voltage Drops - A healthy battery outputs around 12.6 volts. In freezing temperatures, this drops significantly. Your audio system needs adequate voltage to function properly.

“People tend not to realize that their battery is the root cause,” says Urbonas. “They blame the speakers when actually the power supply is compromised.”

• Frozen Speaker Surrounds - The rubber or foam surrounds can freeze or become rigid, restricting movement and reducing sound quality.
• Brittle Wiring - Older wiring insulation becomes brittle in extreme cold. Vibrations from driving can cause these weakened wires to crack or break, creating intermittent connections.

Quick DIY Troubleshooting Tips

Urbonas recommends taking these steps to make sure your speakers are in good working order and not vulnerable to the winter weather:

1. Check All Connections - Pop open your door panels and inspect speaker wire connections. Push any loose connectors firmly back into place.
2. Test Your Battery - Most auto parts shops will test your battery for free. If it's showing weak voltage, charging or replacing it might solve your audio problems entirely.
3. Warm Up Gradually - Give your stereo a few minutes to warm up after starting the car. This allows components to reach operating temperature and reduces stress on frozen parts.
4. Dry Out Moisture - If you suspect condensation, leave your car in a warm garage with doors slightly open for a few hours.

“Simple troubleshooting can fix the majority of winter audio problems,” says Urbonas. “What’s important is identifying whether it's an electrical issue, a mechanical problem with the speakers themselves, or just condensation.”

When To Seek Professional Repair

Head to a professional if crackling persists after drying out the system, you smell burning, multiple speakers fail simultaneously, or the problem worsens over time.

“Don't ignore persistent issues,” warns Urbonas. “What starts as minor crackling can escalate to complete speaker failure.”

Preventative Tips To Protect Your Speakers

Urbonas suggests several tips you can take to protect your speakers:

Warm-Up Habits - Start your car and let it idle for two to three minutes before driving. Keep the volume low initially.

Safe Cleaning - Avoid pressure washing door panels where speakers sit. Water can seep through seals and cause long-term damage.

Insulation - Consider adding sound-deadening material to door panels. This provides extra protection against cold and moisture.

“We see significant differences in speaker longevity between vehicles with proper insulation and those without,” observes Urbonas. “It's a small investment that pays off.”

Battery Care - Keep your battery terminals clean and tight. A weak battery connection amplifies all the other cold-weather problems.

Kazimieras Urbonas, Supplier Excellence Manager at Ovoko, commented:

“Winter places enormous stress on every part of your vehicle, not just the audio system. That's why I always recommend car owners perform comprehensive pre-winter checks rather than waiting for problems to appear.

“Start with your battery, as it's the heart of your electrical system. Have it tested and replace it if it's more than three years old. Check all fluid levels, especially antifreeze and screenwash. Inspect your tyres for adequate tread depth and correct pressure, as cold weather affects both.

“Don't overlook the small things either. Test all lights, check wiper blades, and make sure your heating system works properly. A few hours of preventative maintenance now can save you from being stranded in freezing conditions or facing expensive repairs later. Your audio system is just one component, but taking care of the whole vehicle ensures everything works together as it should.”

Toyota has introduced the Urban Cruiser Hyryder Aero Edition, a limited-edition styling package designed to elevate the SUV’s visual appeal and add a dash of exclusivity to its road presence. Available across all Hyryder variants, this special edition gives Toyota’s popular SUV a sportier and more premium character.

The Aero Edition features a trio of exclusive design enhancements — a front spoiler, rear spoiler, and side skirts — that lend the Hyryder a more dynamic and aerodynamic stance. The front spoiler sharpens the SUV’s face with a bolder, more aggressive look, while the sculpted rear spoiler enhances both style and aerodynamic efficiency. The newly designed side skirts flow smoothly along the body, creating a low-slung, performance-inspired profile.

Priced at an additional ₹31,999, the Aero Edition styling package is available at all Toyota dealerships nationwide. Customers can choose from four colour options — White, Silver, Black, and Red — ensuring every Hyryder Aero Edition makes a distinct statement on the road.

Also read: 2025 Toyota Fortuner Leader Edition: The Icon Gets a Sharper Edge

Since its debut in 2022, the Urban Cruiser Hyryder has crossed the 1.68 lakh-unit sales milestone, cementing its place among India’s most sought-after midsize SUVs. Blending Toyota’s global SUV DNA with advanced hybrid technology and bold design, the Hyryder continues to attract customers looking for sophistication and substance.

With the new Aero Edition, Toyota adds an extra layer of flair and individuality — perfect for buyers who want their Hyryder to stand out while staying true to Toyota’s premium, dependable SUV ethos.

Tata Motors has once again reaffirmed the Nexon’s dominance in India’s compact SUV segment, with the SUV emerging as the No. 1 selling car in September 2025. Building on its safety legacy, Tata Motors has now introduced Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in the Nexon, further enhancing its reputation as one of India’s safest SUVs.

The Nexon, already celebrated for being the first Indian car to secure a 5-star safety rating, now becomes the only SUV to hold dual 5-star ratings from both GNCAP and BNCAP. The addition of ADAS features such as Autonomous Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keep Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition, and High Beam Assist significantly elevates the Nexon’s safety quotient, offering a more intelligent and secure driving experience.

To commemorate its sales milestone, Tata Motors has also launched the new Nexon Red #DARK Edition, priced from ₹12.44 lakh (ex-showroom). Available in petrol, diesel, and CNG variants, the Red #DARK Edition stands out with its Atlas Black exterior, red-themed highlights, and a bold #DARK mascot with red lettering.

Also read: Tata Altroz Achieves 5-Star Safety Rating in Bharat NCAP

The cabin continues this sporty theme with red leatherette ventilated seats, Granite Black trim, red accents on the dashboard and center console, and #DARK-embroidered headrests. These elements, combined with premium finishes and enhanced comfort features, make the Nexon Red #DARK a compelling blend of performance, safety, and style.

Mazda’s latest all-electric offering, the Mazda6e, has earned a top five-star rating in the latest Euro NCAP safety tests, reaffirming the brand’s focus on safety and innovation. The sleek five-door hatchback impressed with an exceptional 93% score for both Adult and Child Occupant protection, alongside 74% for Vulnerable Road Users and 77% for Safety Assist systems.

In Adult Occupant protection, the Mazda6e achieved full marks in the side barrier test and performed exceptionally well in the side pole impact test. Its far side airbag effectively mitigates occupant-to-occupant injuries, while front and rear head restraints offer strong protection against whiplash.

The car’s performance in Child Occupancy tests was equally impressive, securing maximum points in both frontal and lateral impact tests. It also received full marks for child seat installation compatibility, and its Occupancy Monitoring System—which alerts drivers if children are left unattended—earned praise for enhancing family safety.

Also read: Mazda Launches ‘Mazda Charging’ App for Seamless EV Experience

In the Vulnerable Road Users category, the Mazda6e demonstrated effective pedestrian and cyclist protection, aided by its Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) and Lane Support systems, both of which scored highly for motorcyclist safety.

With a 77% Safety Assist rating, Mazda’s latest EV benefits from a suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), including driver fatigue detection, lane keeping assist, and speed recognition technology.

Combining a low centre of gravity, balanced weight distribution (47:53), and driver-focused cockpit, the Mazda6e delivers not just safety but also an engaging, confidence-inspiring electric drive — blending Japanese craftsmanship with modern-day engineering precision.

Ultraviolette Automotive has officially expanded into the Iberian Peninsula, marking its entry into Spain and Portugal as part of its mission to revolutionize performance electric mobility worldwide. The move strengthens Ultraviolette’s global footprint while showcasing Indian innovation in the high-performance EV space.

Through an exclusive partnership with Rhino Electric Motor, Ultraviolette will bring its flagship models—the F77 Mach 2 and F77 SuperStreet—to enthusiasts across both countries. Rhino Electric Motor will handle import and distribution, ensuring strong retail and service coverage across the region.

The F77 lineup blends aggressive styling, precision engineering, and advanced technology. The Mach 2 exudes a sportier, race-inspired character, while the SuperStreet focuses on everyday comfort with an upright riding position and refined ergonomics.

Also read: Hero MotoCorp Enters Spain, Launches Xpulse 200 and Hunk 440 Lineup

Powered by a 10.3 kWh battery, both motorcycles deliver up to 30 kW of peak power and 100 Nm of torque, achieving 0–60 km/h in just 2.8 seconds and a top speed of 155 km/h. Ultraviolette’s proprietary Violette A.I. system and Bosch-developed dual-channel ABS ensure superior control and safety.

Riders also benefit from 10 levels of regenerative braking, 4 traction control modes, and dynamic stability management—features rarely seen in this segment.

With its European debut, Ultraviolette not only enters one of the world’s fastest-growing EV markets but also reinforces India’s reputation for engineering excellence in the global two-wheeler industry.