At the 2024 Indonesia International Motor Show (IIMS), Honda has unveiled the ambitious Honda BR-V N7X Edition, adding a spark to the ever-competitive 7-seater MPV segment, where it is set to compete against the likes of the Ertiga. The new edition sets a solid precedent with its exclusive styling upgrades, which distinguish it from the base S trim and versions with manual transmission.
Rebirth of Honda BR-V in the Form of N7X Edition
The Honda BR-V, which once held a prominent position in the Indian automotive landscape, met an unfortunate fate due to dwindling sales but continues to have a strong presence in selected ASEAN markets. Introduced in 2021 as a part of the new generation BR-V series, the N7X Edition takes cues from its previous model's success and adds a variety of enhancements.
The second generation BR-V harbours significant deviations from its predecessor, adopting the advanced Amaze platform. The enhanced model exhibits a higher degree of SUV aesthetics while retaining the original silhouette, eradicating any divisive opinions generated by the first generation.
The Honda BR-V N7X Edition exits the showroom with a bolder front fascia, coupled with a flat design and modern, streamlined bonnet, eliminating the eccentric window line kink. Its rear profile features tail lights inspired by the 5th generation City sedan, thus adding an air of sophistication to its overall aesthetics. Furthermore, this edition retains numerous interior features from the Amaze model.
Some of the key highlights of the BR-V N7X Edition include a dark chrome front grill bearing the N7X Edition emblem, captivating LED headlights with DRLS, power-operated retractable ORVMs with LED indicators, black door handles, and a sleek black shark fin antenna. On the side, it sports 17-inch black alloy wheels and black side garnish. The vehicle also wears a dark chrome BR-V badge and an attractive all-black interior with a sprinkle of silver elements in the CVT variant.
The Honda BR-V N7X Edition is offered in E CVT, Prestige CVT, and Prestige Sensing CVT trims, with prices starting from IDR 319.4 million (around Rs 17 lakhs). It debuts the captivating Sand Khaki Pearl as its signature paint. Powering this model is a 1.5L DOHC I-VTEC engine capable of generating 121 PS of maximum power and 145 Nm of peak torque, mated to either a 6-speed manual transmission or a CVT.
Unfortunately, the N7X Edition kit isn't available on the base S trim, and the Honda Sensing ADAS suite is only available for the top trim. As the car industry continues to shift towards the rising popularity of SUVs and MPVs, we can only wait to see if Honda will reintroduce the BR-V into the Indian market, potentially taking on popular models such as Maruti Ertiga, XL6, and Kia Carens.
BYD India has officially unveiled its latest electric offering, the eMax 7 MPV, poised to disrupt the Indian electric vehicle market. Priced from Rs 26.9 lakh to Rs 29.9 lakh, this versatile three-row electric multi-purpose vehicle is set to challenge established players like the Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid.
The BYD eMax 7 MPV sets a new benchmark in the Indian electric vehicle market, offering a perfect blend of style, performance, and innovation. With its competitive pricing and feature-packed variants, BYD is poised to strengthen its foothold in the Indian automotive landscape.
Ducati has unveiled two exciting new models in their Scrambler series for 2025: the Full Throttle and the Icon Dark. These motorcycles blend classic aesthetics with modern features, appealing to enthusiasts worldwide.
The revamped Full Throttle takes inspiration from Ducati's rich racing history, featuring:
Although specific prices for the new Scrambler models have not been revealed, Ducati's range caters to diverse consumer needs, with bikes priced from ₹15 lakh to over ₹45 lakh. The official launch of the Scrambler Full Throttle and Icon Dark is set for 2025.
Ducati's revamped Scrambler models promise to captivate enthusiasts with their unique blend of style, performance, and heritage. Stay tuned for further updates as Ducati prepares to roll out these exciting models.
Triumph Motorcycles has officially unveiled its latest motocross innovation, the TF 450-RC, a bike designed to dominate the motocross landscape. Developed in collaboration with motocross legend Ricky Carmichael and world enduro champion Iván Cervantes, this 450cc motocross bike promises to captivate professionals and enthusiasts alike. ###Engine and Performance
####The TF 450-RC boasts a strong yet lightweight chassis, including:
The TF 450-RC signifies Triumph's commitment to the motocross market, rivaling industry leaders like KTM, Honda, and Yamaha. Although deliveries begin in February, the bike will not be introduced in the Indian market due to low demand.
The Triumph TF 450-RC motocross bike embodies engineering excellence, blending champion expertise with cutting-edge technology. With its perfect balance of power, agility, and durability, this bike is poised to dominate the global motocross arena.
Yamaha is set to revolutionize the motorcycle world with the highly anticipated launch of the YZF-R9 on October 9. The company's recent teaser video has sparked excitement among enthusiasts, promising "The Dawn of a New Era" in sports biking.
####Although the teaser didn't fully reveal the bike, it showcased:
Yamaha's MT-09 variants (standard, Y-AMT, and SP) may inspire the R9's lineup. The innovative Y-AMT technology, which automates clutch and gear shifts, could be integrated into the R9.
The Yamaha YZF-R9 promises to captivate riders worldwide with its blend of performance, technology, and style. As the launch date approaches, anticipation builds for this groundbreaking addition to Yamaha's lineup.
The 2024 Paris Motor Show is set to witness the unveiling of Renault's highly anticipated Bigster SUV, courtesy of its sister company, Dacia. This eagerly awaited model is expected to make its way to Indian shores, accompanied by a Nissan counterpart.
####The Bigster will compete with prominent models such as:
In a remarkable display of consumer enthusiasm, the MG Windsor EV has garnered an impressive 15,176 bookings within just 24 hours of its launch on October 3. This overwhelming response underscores the growing demand for electric mobility in India and cements the Windsor EV's position as a pioneering force in the country's electric vehicle market.
The Windsor EV is available under the Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) program, with prices ranging from Rs 9.99 lakh to Rs 11.99 lakh, offering a running cost of Rs 3.5 per km. The vehicle is also available for purchase, starting at Rs 13.50 lakh (ex-showroom). Three distinct variants – Excite, Essence, and Exclusive – cater to diverse customer preferences.
####The Windsor EV prioritizes safety with:
According to Satinder Singh Bajwa, Chief Commercial Officer at JSW MG Motor India, "The MG Windsor's success solidifies its position as a progressive force in India's electric vehicle market. We remain committed to delivering innovative, intelligent, and eco-friendly mobility solutions."
Although the Windsor EV lacks direct competition, it faces challenges from models like the Tata Nexon EV, Curvv EV, and Mahindra XUV400. Its unique features and competitive pricing position it as a strong contender in India's burgeoning electric vehicle segment.
With deliveries set to commence on October 12, 2024, the MG Windsor EV is poised to revolutionize India's electric vehicle landscape. Its impressive bookings and innovative features underscore the growing demand for sustainable transportation solutions.
BMW has introduced the i7 eDrive50, a new variant of its luxury electric sedan lineup in India, replacing the previous i7 xDrive60 model. Priced at Rs 2.03 crore (ex-showroom), this single-motor version offers a more affordable entry point into the luxury electric vehicle market.
The i7 eDrive50 maintains most of the design elements of the xDrive60, with noticeable alterations including the addition of a spare wheel. Key features include:
The i7 eDrive50 employs a single motor configuration paired with a 101.7kWh lithium-ion battery, generating:
The BMW i7 competes with luxury electric vehicles such as the Mercedes-Benz EQS 580, Porsche Taycan, and Audi e-tron GT. The top-spec i7 M70 xDrive variant is priced at Rs 2.50 crore (ex-showroom).
The BMW i7 eDrive50 offers a more accessible entry point into the luxury electric vehicle market, combining stunning design, impressive performance, and advanced features. With its competitive pricing and impressive specs, the i7 eDrive50 is set to make a significant impact in the Indian luxury electric vehicle market.
Volkswagen India has expanded its Virtus sedan and Taigun SUV lineups with the introduction of two new trim levels: GT Line and GT Plus Sport. These additions bring enhanced features, sporty designs, and premium upgrades to the existing models.
Positioned between Highline and Topline trims, the Highline Plus variant adds:
The Virtus lineup now ranges from ₹11.56 lakh to ₹19.41 lakh, while the Taigun's pricing spans from ₹11.70 lakh to ₹20 lakh (ex-showroom prices).
Volkswagen's new trims and feature enhancements strengthen the Virtus and Taigun's positions in the Indian market. With sporty designs, premium features, and competitive pricing, these models are set to attract buyers seeking style, performance, and value.
