Mercedes-Benz India has announced a price hike for the new year.
“Currency headwinds have persisted longer than we anticipated this year , with Euro consistently trading over ₹100 mark. This prolonged volatility affects every aspect of our operations, from imported components for local production, to completely built units. In addition, rising input costs, increasing logistical expenses, in combination with inflationary cos ts have significantly risen our overall operational costs. Thanks to RBI’ s continuous repo rate reduction, enabling Mercedes-Benz Financial Services to pass on the benefits to end customers, thereby mitigating price increase effect to a large extent,” Santosh Iyer, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, on the latest price hike.
Can’t say I’m surprised. Given the rising costs, it seemed inevitable for the brands. The first of many to announce price increments soon.
[Mercedes, Mercedes-Benz, Mercedes-Benz India, Mercedes-Benz Cars, Mercedes-Benz Prices, Mercedes car prices, Car price hike, new cars, new cars 2026, Automotive, Auto, Auto News, Sameer Contractor]
The new-gen Seltos gets even more urban over the older model and sharper in styling.
➡️ Based on the new global K3 platform, the new Seltos is now 95 mm longer, 30 mm wider, and 10 mm lower than before. The wheelbase has grown by 80 mm. The cabin should be roomier than before. The boot is slightly bigger too.
➡️ The design language is all-new and comes from Kia’s global ‘Opposites United’ philosophy from the EV2 and the new Telluride. Not a big fan of the design, but your thoughts?
➡️ The cabin gets the new dual screen setup. Yup, no triple screens on this one. There’s a 10.25-inch touchscreen unit right from the base trim with wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay, along with a 12-inch digital cluster, cruise control, keyless entry and LED lighting.
➡️ Higher variants get ventilated seats, 10-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat, keyless go, panoramic sunroof, and more. There are front and side (on the front fender) parking sensors, while Level 2 ADAS comes from HTX trim onwards and is more packed with safety tech.
➡️ Engine and transmission options remain the same - 1.5 naturally aspirated Petrol, 1.5 turbo Petrol, and 1.5 Diesel. Gearbox choices include 6-speed manual, 6-speed torque converter, an IMT, and a dual-clutch automatic, all sending power to the front wheels.
➡️ Four variants - HTE, HTK, HTX & GTX. The X-Line will be added later with the matte black paint scheme.
➡️ Bookings open on December 11, 2025, at midnight (tonight), while prices will be announced on January 2, 2025.
Like it???
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MINI India has begun taking orders for the new-gen Convertible. The launch is slated for December this year. The new Convertible joins the Cooper S 3-Door already on sale.
2.0-litre turbo petrol engjne, 201 bhp and 300 Nm, with a 7-speed automatic transmission. The Convertible differentiates itself with the soft-top that can open or close in just 18 seconds.
Expect the topless MINI to command a premium over the 3-door that retails at ₹43.70 lakh (ex-showroom, excluding options).
New Audi Q3 and Q5 Signature Line Editions are here.
➡️ What you get with the Signature Line? - Audi rings entry LED lamps for a dramatic welcome projection - Audi ring decals - Dynamic wheel hub caps - Fragrance dispenser - Metallic key cover - Stainless steel pedal covers
➡️ Additional Tech on the Audi Q3 Signature Line
- Park Assist Plus - New R18, 5-V-spoke alloys - 12-V outlet - 2 USB ports in the rear
➡️ Additional Tech on the Audi Q5 Signature Line - New R19, Graphite Gray, gloss alloys
Prices: Ex-Showroom Audi Q3 - ₹52.31 Lakh Audi Q3 Sportback - ₹53.35 Lakh Audi Q5 - ₹69.86 Lakh
Available in limited numbers.
[Audi, Audi India, Audi Q3, Audi Q3 Sportback, Audi cars, Audi Q5, Audi SUV, luxury cars, luxury cars India, Auto, Sameer Contractor, New Cars]
This is the UV Crossfade - the first-ever helmet from Ultraviolette - the brand behind electric performance motorcycles like the F77 and the new X-47.
The Crossfade is a new territory for UV as it forays into the lifestyle & riding gear space. The standout bit on the Crossfade is its carbon fibre shell with 0.9 mm thickness, along with fibreglass. This allows it to be super light at 1380 gm (For M and 100 gm more for the L & XL shell).
There’s a Double-D ring, thick padding, and an integrated sun visor. There’s also a long spoiler for better aero.
UV says the Crossfade is certified for ECE 22.06, ISI and DOT certifications. They also say it has been tested for multiple drop and high-speed tests, beyond the standard test parameters of other certifications.
UV has partnered with Cardo for the communication system that brings voice alert. Essentially, the helmet allows rider-to-rider, and rider-to-vehicle connectivity, which allows calls, music, and sms alerts. But for the UV X-47 riders, the radar assistance will double up as voice alerts. There beeps when a vehicle gets too close or it senses an impact alert. It’ll also announce Ballistic+ mode specifically.
The Crossfade gets a single decal option, which I think is a miss. An all-black version would’ve been a whole lot awesome.
The Crossfade is priced at ₹19,900, introductory for the first 99 customers, post which it’ll be up to ₹25,000. For those who want the Cardo system, the bundled introductory price goes up to ₹27,900.
I’ll be checking out more of the Crossfade. More coming up soon.
BSA has pulled the wraps off the new Thunderbolt for international markets, as an adventure tourer. The BSA Thunderbolt revives the nameplate from the British brand’s stable as the last motorcycle to be in production before the manufacturer shut shop.
The Thunderbolt name now makes a comeback in the form of an adventure tourer. The BSA Thunderbolt shares its underpinnings with the Yezdi Adventure borrowing the same 334 cc engine among other cycle parts. It looks different with the additional bodywork but the asymmetrical headlamp has been carried over.
The Thunderbolt is the fourth offering from BSA after the Gold Star 650, Bantam, and Scrambler. The brand has not confirmed if it will be sold in India but sales in international markets will begin by mid-2026.
Piercing through the streets of Milan, Royal Enfield has taken the wraps off the new Bullet 650 at EICMA 2025. The oldest motorcycle in continuous production gets an upgrade with a new 650 cc parallel-twin heart with 46.3 bhp & 52 Nm, while retaining the same charming old-school design. Two colour options - Cannon Black and Battleship Blue.
19-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels, Showa suspension, & 243 kg kerb weight (same as Classic 650). The Bullet 650 joins an expansive range of 650s in RE’s lineup, and I do like the way it looks.
Sales begin globally in 2026, which is I’m guessing when we ride it too. Expect it to come to RE Motoverse later this month, apart from everything else from EICMA.
Bigger, bolder, and more tech-laden. The design language has completely changed and looks futuristic. It’s instantly recognisable though with the boxy shape retained. I’m not a big fan of the design but there’s clearly a lot more happening with the SUV, which its buyers love.
Hyundai says the new Venue gets 60 upgrades over the older Venue right from design, features, tech, safety, and more. It’s based on the Enhanced K1 Platform and gets 71% use of high grade steel. It’s taller and wider, while the wheelbase has grown for more cabin space.
12.3-inch Curved Dual Screens Connected Tech with 70 new features 4-Way Adjustable Driver’s Seat Dual-tone leather seats Paddle Shifters Traction Control Modes Electronic Parking Brake
➡️ Enhanced K1 Platform 71% high grade steel advanced high strength steel Reinforced in key areas
➡️ Adas Level 2 - 16 features 33 standard safety features Disc brakes on all four whels ESS
Bookings are open and deliveries will begin soon.
➡️ VENUE N LINE
Sportier bumpers Twin tip exhaust Sporty spoiler Red highlights Dedicated performance buttons for drive modes and traction control modes Different alloys Red ambient lighting N badging on the seats
Exelmoto, co-founded by Akshai Varde, and backed by Suniel Shetty, Ahaan Shetty, and KL Rahul, has announced the expansion of its new electric “Scoot” for B2B customers. The brand has been retailing its electric cycles for over a year now and have now taken the next leap by partnering with Delhivery for the delivery of its first 200 Universal Scoots that are easy to ride and carry a load of luggage at the fraction of a cost, compared to conventional scooters - ICE & EV.
Exelmoto says its electric cycles are locally made with state-of-the-art components sourced from different suppliers, all aimed to make the models more lucrative for customers. The Exelmoto E2R and E1X promise a stylish exterior with the conventional pedal power, supported by a battery pack and motor, providing assistance up to 40 km on a single charge.
Akshai says the new Exelmoto e-bikes aren’t just about saving a buck but incorporating them into a more fitness-friendly lifestyle. With prices starting at ₹48,500, these e-bikes are as expensive as a gaming console or a premium smartphone, but promise freedom of a different kind.
I took a short spin on the Exelmoto e-bikes, and to be honest, can’t wait to ride it for longer.
Honda’s maiden electric SUV for India is here in the form of the 0 α (Zero Alpha) prototype, which has just debuted at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show. This, as Honda says, will be the gateway or entry model in the brand’s 0 Series EV range, which debuted at CES last year.
The styling remains identical to the bigger 0 Series. Lots of plastic cladding and a design that looks like it will age well. The high ground clearance would make it likeable too. Honda says the cabin will be spacious enough, promising a fairly large for its size.
No specific details yet, but the automaker has confirmed the Honda 0 α will be mainly sold in India and Japan. This gives me reason to believe the 0 α will be made in India and exported to Japan, much like the Elevate.
Meanwhile, Autocar India reports that the bigger 0 Series will come to India next year, as a full import. Most likely as a brand builder before the Honda 0 α arrives as the Hyundai Creta Electric, Tata Curvv EV, and Mahindra BE 6 rival.
Sameer Contractor
Mercedes-Benz India has announced a price hike for the new year.
“Currency headwinds have persisted longer than we anticipated this year , with Euro consistently
trading over ₹100 mark. This prolonged volatility affects every aspect of our operations, from imported components for local production, to completely built units. In addition, rising input costs, increasing logistical expenses, in combination with inflationary cos ts have significantly risen our overall operational costs. Thanks to RBI’ s continuous repo rate reduction, enabling Mercedes-Benz Financial Services to pass
on the benefits to end customers, thereby mitigating price increase effect to a large extent,” Santosh Iyer, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, on the latest price hike.
Can’t say I’m surprised. Given the rising costs, it seemed inevitable for the brands. The first of many to announce price increments soon.
[Mercedes, Mercedes-Benz, Mercedes-Benz India, Mercedes-Benz Cars, Mercedes-Benz Prices, Mercedes car prices, Car price hike, new cars, new cars 2026, Automotive, Auto, Auto News, Sameer Contractor]
#Mercedesbenz #pricehike #auto #sameercontractor
3 months ago | [YT] | 0
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Sameer Contractor
The second-generation Kia Seltos is here!
The new-gen Seltos gets even more urban over the older model and sharper in styling.
➡️ Based on the new global K3 platform, the new Seltos is now 95 mm longer, 30 mm wider, and 10 mm lower than before. The wheelbase has grown by 80 mm. The cabin should be roomier than before. The boot is slightly bigger too.
➡️ The design language is all-new and comes from Kia’s global ‘Opposites United’ philosophy from the EV2 and the new Telluride. Not a big fan of the design, but your thoughts?
➡️ The cabin gets the new dual screen setup. Yup, no triple screens on this one. There’s a 10.25-inch touchscreen unit right from the base trim with wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay, along with a 12-inch digital cluster, cruise control, keyless entry and LED lighting.
➡️ Higher variants get ventilated seats, 10-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat, keyless go, panoramic sunroof, and more. There are front and side (on the front fender) parking sensors, while Level 2 ADAS comes from HTX trim onwards and is more packed with safety tech.
➡️ Engine and transmission options remain the same - 1.5 naturally aspirated Petrol, 1.5 turbo Petrol, and 1.5 Diesel. Gearbox choices include 6-speed manual, 6-speed torque converter, an IMT, and a dual-clutch automatic, all sending power to the front wheels.
➡️ Four variants - HTE, HTK, HTX & GTX. The X-Line will be added later with the matte black paint scheme.
➡️ Bookings open on December 11, 2025, at midnight (tonight), while prices will be announced on January 2, 2025.
Like it???
[Kia, Kia India, New Kia Seltos, Kia Cars, Seltos, Seltos India, New Seltos, Kia Motors, 2026 Kia Seltos, new gen Kia Seltos, Auto, Sameer Contractor, Automotive, Auto News]
#KiaSeltos #seltos #kia #sameercontractor
3 months ago | [YT] | 3
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Sameer Contractor
MINI India has begun taking orders for the new-gen Convertible. The launch is slated for December this year. The new Convertible joins the Cooper S 3-Door already on sale.
2.0-litre turbo petrol engjne, 201 bhp and 300 Nm, with a 7-speed automatic transmission. The Convertible differentiates itself with the soft-top that can open or close in just 18 seconds.
Expect the topless MINI to command a premium over the 3-door that retails at ₹43.70 lakh (ex-showroom, excluding options).
#MINI #MINIConvertible #droptop #miniindia #minicars #luxurycars #newcars #upcomingcars #auto #autonews #sameercontractor
3 months ago | [YT] | 4
View 0 replies
Sameer Contractor
New Audi Q3 and Q5 Signature Line Editions are here.
➡️ What you get with the Signature Line?
- Audi rings entry LED lamps for a dramatic welcome projection
- Audi ring decals
- Dynamic wheel hub caps
- Fragrance dispenser
- Metallic key cover
- Stainless steel pedal covers
➡️ Additional Tech on the Audi Q3 Signature Line
- Park Assist Plus
- New R18, 5-V-spoke alloys
- 12-V outlet
- 2 USB ports in the rear
➡️ Additional Tech on the Audi Q5 Signature Line
- New R19, Graphite Gray, gloss alloys
Prices: Ex-Showroom
Audi Q3 - ₹52.31 Lakh
Audi Q3 Sportback - ₹53.35 Lakh
Audi Q5 - ₹69.86 Lakh
Available in limited numbers.
[Audi, Audi India, Audi Q3, Audi Q3 Sportback, Audi cars, Audi Q5, Audi SUV, luxury cars, luxury cars India, Auto, Sameer Contractor, New Cars]
4 months ago | [YT] | 2
View 0 replies
Sameer Contractor
This is the UV Crossfade - the first-ever helmet from Ultraviolette - the brand behind electric performance motorcycles like the F77 and the new X-47.
The Crossfade is a new territory for UV as it forays into the lifestyle & riding gear space. The standout bit on the Crossfade is its carbon fibre shell with 0.9 mm thickness, along with fibreglass. This allows it to be super light at 1380 gm (For M and 100 gm more for the L & XL shell).
There’s a Double-D ring, thick padding, and an integrated sun visor. There’s also a long spoiler for better aero.
UV says the Crossfade is certified for ECE 22.06, ISI and DOT certifications. They also say it has been tested for multiple drop and high-speed tests, beyond the standard test parameters of other certifications.
UV has partnered with Cardo for the communication system that brings voice alert. Essentially, the helmet allows rider-to-rider, and rider-to-vehicle connectivity, which allows calls, music, and sms alerts. But for the UV X-47 riders, the radar assistance will double up as voice alerts. There beeps when a vehicle gets too close or it senses an impact alert. It’ll also announce Ballistic+ mode specifically.
The Crossfade gets a single decal option, which I think is a miss. An all-black version would’ve been a whole lot awesome.
The Crossfade is priced at ₹19,900, introductory for the first 99 customers, post which it’ll be up to ₹25,000. For those who want the Cardo system, the bundled introductory price goes up to ₹27,900.
I’ll be checking out more of the Crossfade. More coming up soon.
#Ultraviolette #Crossfade #uvcrossfade #ultravioletteautomotive #x47 #helmet #saferide #motorcycles #electricbikes #ev #ridinggear #motorcyclesofinstagram #carbonfibre #carbonfiber #auto #automotive #sameercontractor
4 months ago | [YT] | 3
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Sameer Contractor
BSA has pulled the wraps off the new Thunderbolt for international markets, as an adventure tourer. The BSA Thunderbolt revives the nameplate from the British brand’s stable as the last motorcycle to be in production before the manufacturer shut shop.
The Thunderbolt name now makes a comeback in the form of an adventure tourer. The BSA Thunderbolt shares its underpinnings with the Yezdi Adventure borrowing the same 334 cc engine among other cycle parts. It looks different with the additional bodywork but the asymmetrical headlamp has been carried over.
The Thunderbolt is the fourth offering from BSA after the Gold Star 650, Bantam, and Scrambler. The brand has not confirmed if it will be sold in India but sales in international markets will begin by mid-2026.
#BSA #BSAThunderbolt #Thunderbolt #BSAUK #BSAMotorcycles #eicma #eicma2025 #auto #sameercontractor #autonews
4 months ago | [YT] | 5
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Sameer Contractor
Piercing through the streets of Milan, Royal Enfield has taken the wraps off the new Bullet 650 at EICMA 2025. The oldest motorcycle in continuous production gets an upgrade with a new 650 cc parallel-twin heart with 46.3 bhp & 52 Nm, while retaining the same charming old-school design. Two colour options - Cannon Black and Battleship Blue.
19-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels, Showa suspension, & 243 kg kerb weight (same as Classic 650). The Bullet 650 joins an expansive range of 650s in RE’s lineup, and I do like the way it looks.
Sales begin globally in 2026, which is I’m guessing when we ride it too. Expect it to come to RE Motoverse later this month, apart from everything else from EICMA.
#RoyalEnfield #Bullet650 #RoyalEnfieldBullet650 #RE #auto #eicma #eicma2025 #Bullet #sameercontractor #motorcycles
4 months ago | [YT] | 5
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Sameer Contractor
The new Hyundai Venue LAUNCHED.
Bigger, bolder, and more tech-laden. The design language has completely changed and looks futuristic. It’s instantly recognisable though with the boxy shape retained. I’m not a big fan of the design but there’s clearly a lot more happening with the SUV, which its buyers love.
Hyundai says the new Venue gets 60 upgrades over the older Venue right from design, features, tech, safety, and more. It’s based on the Enhanced K1 Platform and gets 71% use of high grade steel. It’s taller and wider, while the wheelbase has grown for more cabin space.
The engine options remain the same.
➡️ 1.2 Petrol - 82 bhp, 114 Nm
18.1 kmpl (5MT)
➡️ 1.0 Turbo Petrol - 118 bhp, 172 Nm
18.74 kmpl (6MT) | 20 kmpl (7DCT)
➡️ 1.5 Diesel - 114 bhp, 250 Nm
20.99 kmpl (6MT) | 17.9 kmpl (6AT)
➡️ Features
12.3-inch Curved Dual Screens
Connected Tech with 70 new features
4-Way Adjustable Driver’s Seat
Dual-tone leather seats
Paddle Shifters
Traction Control Modes
Electronic Parking Brake
➡️ Enhanced K1 Platform
71% high grade steel advanced high strength steel
Reinforced in key areas
➡️ Adas Level 2 - 16 features
33 standard safety features
Disc brakes on all four whels
ESS
Bookings are open and deliveries will begin soon.
➡️ VENUE N LINE
Sportier bumpers
Twin tip exhaust
Sporty spoiler
Red highlights
Dedicated performance buttons for drive modes and traction control modes
Different alloys
Red ambient lighting
N badging on the seats
1.0 Turbo Petrol - 118 bhp, 172 Nm
6 MT | 7 DCT
21 ADAS Level 2 (5 extra over regular Venue)
#Hyundai #HyundaiMotorIndia #Venue #HyundaiVenue #HyundaiVenuenline #Venuenline #NewVenue #auto #autonews #sameercontractor
4 months ago | [YT] | 5
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Sameer Contractor
Exelmoto, co-founded by Akshai Varde, and backed by Suniel Shetty, Ahaan Shetty, and KL Rahul, has announced the expansion of its new electric “Scoot” for B2B customers. The brand has been retailing its electric cycles for over a year now and have now taken the next leap by partnering with Delhivery for the delivery of its first 200 Universal Scoots that are easy to ride and carry a load of luggage at the fraction of a cost, compared to conventional scooters - ICE & EV.
Exelmoto says its electric cycles are locally made with state-of-the-art components sourced from different suppliers, all aimed to make the models more lucrative for customers. The Exelmoto E2R and E1X promise a stylish exterior with the conventional pedal power, supported by a battery pack and motor, providing assistance up to 40 km on a single charge.
Akshai says the new Exelmoto e-bikes aren’t just about saving a buck but incorporating them into a more fitness-friendly lifestyle. With prices starting at ₹48,500, these e-bikes are as expensive as a gaming console or a premium smartphone, but promise freedom of a different kind.
I took a short spin on the Exelmoto e-bikes, and to be honest, can’t wait to ride it for longer.
#Exelmoto #exelmotoebikes #ebike #electriccycle #electric #akshaivarde #sunielshetty #auto #autonews #sameercontractor
4 months ago | [YT] | 2
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Sameer Contractor
Honda’s maiden electric SUV for India is here in the form of the 0 α (Zero Alpha) prototype, which has just debuted at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show. This, as Honda says, will be the gateway or entry model in the brand’s 0 Series EV range, which debuted at CES last year.
The styling remains identical to the bigger 0 Series. Lots of plastic cladding and a design that looks like it will age well. The high ground clearance would make it likeable too. Honda says the cabin will be spacious enough, promising a fairly large for its size.
No specific details yet, but the automaker has confirmed the Honda 0 α will be mainly sold in India and Japan. This gives me reason to believe the 0 α will be made in India and exported to Japan, much like the Elevate.
Meanwhile, Autocar India reports that the bigger 0 Series will come to India next year, as a full import. Most likely as a brand builder before the Honda 0 α arrives as the Hyundai Creta Electric, Tata Curvv EV, and Mahindra BE 6 rival.
Are you waiting for Honda’s first EV?
#Honda #HondaEV #electricSUV #Hondaelectricsuv #Honda0 #Honda0Alpha #HondaAlpha #japanmobilityshow #jms #sameercontractor #auto
4 months ago (edited) | [YT] | 7
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