The global launch of Hyundai Ioniq 5 facelift reveals intense upgrades in different aspects of the electric SUV, which features an improved battery pack and significant improvements in its chassis for superior handling and security. First released in the Korean market, it will subsequently be accessible in other countries, including India. Further, the new Ioniq 5 N Line was unveiled, showing off a sportier version that is categorically placed below the Ioniq 5 N.
Design updates see the Hyundai Ioniq 5 facelift maintaining its overall design aesthetic, with front and rear bumpers receiving a refresh. Aerodynamic alloy wheels have been introduced and the rear spoiler extended by 50 mm to ensure superior aerodynamic efficiency. Despite these updates, the vehicle’s width, height, and wheelbase have remained constant, the changes have, however, made it 20mm longer.
A notable change in the Honda Ioniq 5 facelift is the introduction of a larger 84 kWh battery pack, which is an upgrade from the 77.4 kWh battery pack used previously. This will potentially improve the vehicle's driving range, although the exact range is yet to be confirmed as it may vary across markets.
The facelifting operation also involved cabin updates such as changes to the centre console functionalities. These changes include physical buttons for the first-row heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel and parking assist function. The wireless charging pad has been moved to a more accessible position and pixel lights have been added to the steering wheel centre pad.
Infotainment upgrades now see the Ioniq 5 sporting Hyundai's latest connected car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) infotainment system. This brings with it new features such as a quick settings menu, home screen cards customisation and a split-screen feature for multi-info access on a single screen. There are also updates to the set of hotkey buttons located below the AC vents, which include home and seek buttons. Despite these updates, the infotainment unit remains the same integrated dual 12.3-inch display setup. The car also features a dashcam setup, remote folding second-row seats, ventilated front seats and dual-zone climate control.
Safety features have also been improved, with B-pillars of the EV being reinforced to boost side collision protection. Furthermore, extra functionalities such as hands-on detection (HOD) steering wheel, lane keeping assist 2, remote smart parking assist 2 (RSPA 2) and forward/side/reverse parking collision-avoidance assist have been incorporated to augment the full-Advanced Driver-Assistence System (ADAS) features of the facelifted Ioniq 5. An additional safety feature included is the installation of eight airbags for all-around protection.
To provide a smoother and quieter ride, underneath tweaks have been made. The structural integrity of the EV has been heightened which reduces motor noise and additional sound insulation provided for the rear wheel motor. For a smoother ride, the shock absorbers have been updated, and to reduce steering wheel vibrations, alterations have been made. Also, to provide better stability and handling, the rear wheel and lower part of the Ioniq 5 have been reinforced.
The new sporty Hyundai Ioniq 5 N Line, positioned between the Ioniq 5 and the top-of-the-range Ioniq 5 N, has also been showcased. This sportier variant features a sportier front and rear bumper design, 20-inch aluminium alloy wheels and an N Line badge on the front grille and side skirts. The interior sees updates that include an N Line-specific dashboard theme and steering wheel, sport seats and metal pedals.
Although the Hyundai Ioniq 5 facelift's India launch and price have not been confirmed, it is expected to debut towards the end of 2024 at a starting price of Rs 50 lakh (ex-showroom). The current India-spec Hyundai Ioniq 5 is priced at Rs 45.95 lakh (ex-showroom pan India), mainly competing with the Kia EV6 and offering an alternative to the Volvo XC40 Recharge, and C40 Recharge.
Tata Harrier EV Triumphs with 5-Star Bharat NCAP Safety Rating
Tata Motors’ flagship Harrier EV has achieved an impressive 5-star rating in the latest Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (BNCAP) crash tests, making it a top-tier contender in EV safety
Adult & Child Safety Results
Adult Occupant Protection: A perfect 32 out of 32, making Harrier EV only the second SUV to earn full points
Scored 16/16 in both frontal offset and side barrier tests. Protection for chest, head, abdomen, and pelvis rated “good”.
Child Occupant Protection: 45 out of 49, matching its rival Mahindra XEV 9e
Full marks (24/24) in dynamic tests and CRS fitment (12/12), with 9/13 in general safety assessment.
Why It Matters
The tests were conducted on the top‑end Empowered 75 kWh RWD and AWD variants, but all Harrier EV variants share the same structural safety, airbag count, and seatbelt systems, making the rating universally applicable
Standard Safety Tech
All variants are equipped with:
Six airbags (seven on Fearless and Empowered trims)
Level‑2 ADAS, including AEB, lane‑keep assist, adaptive cruise control
ESC, ISOFIX anchor points, seatbelt reminders, pretensioners
ABS with EBD, TPMS, auto headlights, AVAS, hill‑hold, and descent control
Catch-up with Global Standards
Tata continues to elevate safety benchmarks. Following its success with the Nexon EV, the Harrier EV now sets a new standard for mid-size electric SUVs in India, offering stellar occupant protection and cutting-edge active safety — all starting from ₹21.49 lakh ex-showroom
Final Take
With its flawless safety rating and high-level features as standard across the lineup, the Tata Harrier EV redefines excellence in EV safety and value in India. This perfect Bharat NCAP score reinforces Tata’s reputation as a leader in occupant protection for electric SUVs.
VinFast Showcases VF 6 & VF 7 at Chennai Mall as Pre-Launch Strategy
Vietnamese EV maker VinFast is creating buzz ahead of its India debut by displaying its upcoming electric SUVs—VF 6 and VF 7—at a busy mall in Chennai. This is part of a nationwide tour covering 11 cities, including Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kochi, and Lucknow
Why Mall Exhibits Matter
Brings premium EVs to public spaces, making them accessible for first-hand inspection by potential buyers
Builds **pre-launch engagement **in the run-up to commercial availability later this year.
Supports VinFast’s ₹2 billion India investment and launch of its Thoothukudi plant expected this July
Meet the SUVs
VF 6 – B‑segment Subcompact EV
59.6 kWh battery, offering 174 hp/250 Nm in Eco mode; Plus variant boosts to 201 hp/310 Nm
Range: approximately 460–480 km WLTP
Features stylish LED DRLs, 12.9” touchscreen, HUD, Level 2 ADAS, premium interior
VF 7 – C‑segment Mid-Size EV
75.3 kWh battery with 201 hp/309 Nm (Eco) and 348 hp/499 Nm (Plus AWD)
Expected ~498 km WLTP
Bold “Asymmetric Aerospace” design, panoramic sunroof, 15.6” infotainment, driver-focused cabin
Mall Tour Locations
Launch Timeline & Market Strategy
Bookings: Set to begin in late June or early July 2025
Local production: Thoothukudi plant commissioning in July, starting CKD assembly for VF 6/VF 7; planned capacity: 50,000 units/year initially
Positioning: VF 6 expected around ₹35 lakh, VF 7 near ₹50 lakh—targeting segment rivals like BYD Sealion 7, Hyundai Ioniq 5
Final Take for CarTopNews
By taking the VF 6 and VF 7 directly to malls, VinFast is smartly blending engagement and accessibility to connect with diverse Indian buyers ahead of launch. With compelling specs, cutting-edge design, and strong backing via local production, these EVs could redefine the mid‑size electric SUV landscape in India.
Tata Harrier EV Debuts in India – Prices from ₹21.49 Lakh
Tata Motors has officially launched its flagship electric SUV, the Harrier EV, in India. The rear‑wheel‑drive variants are priced between ₹21.49 Lakh and ₹27.49 Lakh (ex‑showroom). Bookings open 2nd July 2025, with all‑wheel‑drive (QWD) pricing to be announced 27th June
Battery & Powertrain Options
65 kWh RWD variants:
Adventure: ₹21.49 L
Adventure S: ₹21.99 L
Fearless+: ₹23.99 L
75 kWh RWD variants:
Fearless+: ₹24.99 L
Empowered: ₹27.49 L
Future offerings will include 75 kWh QWD variants with dual motors producing 313 hp and 504 Nm, enabling a 0–100 km/h sprint in 6.3 seconds
Claimed Range & Performance
65 kWh RWD: Up to 502 L boot, 235 PS power
75 kWh RWD: 627 km MIDC‑certified range; real‑world 480–505 km
Supports DC fast charging: 20–80 % in ~25 minutes via 120 kW charger
Design & Features
Retains updated Harrier styling: closed grille, split LED lamps, aero wheels, EV badging
Available in four colour options plus a Stealth Edition with matte black accents
Interiors feature a large 14.5″ QLED touchscreen, panoramic sunroof, Level‑2 ADAS (22 features), JBL–Dolby Atmos audio, 540° surround cameras, V2L and V2V tech
Warranty & Market Position
Offers lifetime battery warranty
Positioned against rivals like Mahindra XEV 9e, BYD Atto 3, and MG ZS EV, yet priced competitively at ₹21.49–27.49 L
Final Take
The Tata Harrier EV brings class-leading range, bold design, and advanced features into a compelling package at an attractive price point. It's set to redefine the electric SUV segment in India—especially once the AWD QWD variants launch.
Looking to enhance CarTopNews coverage? I can help create a variant spec-price table, feature comparison with rivals, or social media assets for this news.
Rolls‑Royce Spectre Black Badge Launches in India at ₹9.5 Crore
Rolls‑Royce India has officially launched its most potent EV to date, the Spectre Black Badge, at ₹9.5 crore (ex-showroom). Bookings are now open at the brand’s Chennai and New Delhi showrooms
Performance: Highest Output Ever
Power ahead of the standard model: Now delivers 659 hp (+74 hp) and 1,075 Nm torque (+175 Nm) via dual motors
Acceleration: 0‑100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds, 0.4 s quicker than the regular Spectre
Battery & Range: Retains the 102 kWh pack, delivering up to 530 km WLTP range
Chassis tuning: Stiffer suspension, weighted steering, and roll-stabilisation retain the magic carpet ride despite the added performance
Bespoke Black Badge Exterior
Dressed in Vapour Violet with blacked-out trims, inclusive of Spirit of Ecstasy, grille, handles, and badges
Up to 44,000 custom-colour options + 23-inch forged wheels.
Illuminated grille & door sills with selectable hues—Tailored Purple, Charles Blue, Chartreuse, or Forge Yellow
Starry, Luxurious Interior
Illuminated fascia with over 5,500 embedded stars, piano-gloss finish
Customisable driver display themes: Vivid Grellow, Neon Nights, Cyan Fire, Ultraviolet, Synth Wave
Premium touches include carbon-fibre/metal trims and bespoke ambient lighting schemes
Pricing & Booking Details
Price: ₹9.5 crore (ex-showroom, before options)—a premium of ₹1.88 crore over the standard Spectre priced at ₹7.62 crore
Availability: Bookings are now open in Chennai and Delhi outlets
Final Take for CarTopNews
The Spectre Black Badge elevates Rolls‑Royce’s first EV with unmatched performance, dramatic design, and deep bespoke customization. Priced at ₹9.5 crore, it represents the most powerful and indulgent Rolls‑Royce available today—perfect for buyers seeking electric extravagance.
Audi Q7 Signature Edition Arrives in India – ₹99.81 Lakh for Bespoke Luxury
Audi India has introduced the Q7 Signature Edition, a limited‑run version of its flagship SUV priced at ₹99.81 lakh (ex‑showroom). Based on the Technology variant, this model brings a curated accessory pack at no extra cost
Pricing & Availability
Ex‑showroom price: ₹99.81 lakh
Positioning: Priced on par with the top‑trim Technology variant, available in limited numbers
Exclusive Styling & Convenience Features
LED puddle lamps projecting the Audi rings when entering/exiting
Dynamic hub caps that maintain upright Audi rings even while driving
Fresh finish on 20-inch alloy wheels
Metallic key cover, stainless steel pedal caps, and branded dashcam for enhanced luxury
Built-in espresso coffee machine, targeting luxury travel convenience
Comfort & Infotainment
Retains Q7's spacious 7-seater layout with electric third-row folding
Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus, Bang & Olufsen 19-speaker 3D sound system, MMI Navigation Plus, phone wireless charger
Panoramic sunroof, four-zone climate control, 360° camera, and ADAS features like lane-keep and park assist remain standard
Engine & Performance
Powered by a 3.0-litre V6 TFSI petrol motor with 340 PS and 500 Nm torque, coupled with a 48 V mild hybrid system and 8-speed AT with quattro AWD
Performance figures: 0–100 km/h in ~5.6 s, top speed electronically limited to 250 km/h
Why It Matters
The Q7 Signature Edition underscores Audi’s approach to limited-edition luxury variants, offering exclusive aesthetic and functional upgrades without costing extra. It provides buyers a subtle step above the standard Technology trim in comfort, convenience, and cachet.
Final Take for CarTopNews
The Audi Q7 Signature Edition delivers premium refinements—from illuminated door entry to in-car espresso—on top of its formidable performance credentials. Limited availability and stylish upgrades make it a compelling choice for discerning SUV buyers in the luxury segment.
TVS Ntorq 125 Sales Cross 2 Million Units – A Milestone for a Performance Scooter
TVS Motor Company has celebrated a major milestone as the Ntorq 125 surpassed 2,006,038 cumulative domestic sales since its February 2018 debut This achievement follows a record year in FY2025, with 334,414 units sold—a 6% increase from FY2024—and confirms the Ntorq’s strong presence in India’s scooter market.
Sales Performance & Market Share
The first million units were sold in just over four years, and the second million in three years .
It contributed 23% to TVS’s total scooter sales (8.75 million units since 2018), though its share dropped from 29% in FY2022
Ranked fourth overall, behind Honda Activa, TVS Jupiter, and Suzuki Access; approximately 13k units ahead of Honda Dio
Export Success
The Ntorq has also found global appeal, exporting over 300,000 units in FY2025 alone, making it TVS’s top-exported scooter
Why Riders Love the Ntorq 125
Sporty performance: Features a 124.8 cc engine, 9.4 PS, 10.5 Nm torque, and 0–60 km/h in around 6.5 seconds
Tech‑rich features: Bluetooth-connected TFT screen with navigation, lap timer, ride alerts, and phone integration
Variant and accessory range: Available in five trims—Disc, Race, Super Squad, Race XP/XT—with prices ranging ₹87,542–₹1.07 L ex-showroom (Delhi)
Powering TVS Strategy
The Ntorq is the second-best-selling scooter in TVS’s lineup after Jupiter, and pivotal in raising TVS scooters’ market share from 16.4% to 26.5% between FY2018–FY2025
What’s Next – Ntorq 150
Building on its success, TVS is launching the larger Ntorq 150 around this year’s festive season. It will target models like Yamaha Aerox and Hero Xoom 160, likely featuring sporty styling, 150 cc performance, and advanced features
Final Thoughts
Crossing the 2 million milestone, the Ntorq 125 cements its legacy as India’s performance-centric scooter icon. With a broader market strategy driven by exports and an upcoming 150 cc model, TVS is set to continue its momentum in the 125–150 cc space.
Honda City Sport Edition Launched in India – Sportier Looks, Same Drive
Honda Cars India has officially launched the City Sport, a limited-run mid-spec variant priced at ₹14.89 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) Offered above the V CVT variant, this Sport edition brings fresh styling tweaks inside and out without altering the mechanical setup.
Exterior Upgrades for a Sporty Appeal
Glossy black paint accents on the front grille, ORVMs, shark-fin antenna, and boot lip spoiler
Unique ‘Sport’ badges to distinguish the new variant
15‑inch alloy wheels dipped in grey, enhancing its aggressive stance
Available in three shades: Radiant Red Metallic, Platinum White Pearl, and Meteoroid Grey Metallic
Interior Enhancements
Full black cabin with eye-catching red contrast stitching across seats, steering wheel, doors, and dash
7-colour ambient lighting and leatherette trims on seats, steering wheel, and gear knob—adds a touch of premium feel
Gloss-black AC vents and dark-red dashboard accents complete the sporty vibe
Powertrain & Driving Dynamics
Retains the 1.5 L i‑VTEC petrol engine producing 121 PS and 145 Nm
Paired exclusively with a 7-step CVT automatic, featuring paddle shifters
Delivers a fuel efficiency of 18.4 km/l, compliant with E20 petrol
Features & Equipment
Includes Honda Sensing ADAS suite—adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, collision mitigation braking
Also offers wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, 8-inch touchscreen infotainment, automatic headlights, paddle shifters, and keyless entry
Skips sunroof, rear AC vents, rear wipers, additional tweeters, lane-watch camera, and digital instrument cluster to retain mid-level positioning
What Makes the City Sport Stand Out?
Sporty facelift at no additional mechanical cost—ideal for buyers seeking style upgrades only
Priced ₹49,000 above V CVT, it delivers enhanced looks and subtle tech raises
Slight handling edge vs. rivals like Hyundai Verna, Skoda Slavia Sportline, and VW Virtus by offering ADAS + sporty aesthetics
Final Take for CarTopNews
The City Sport blends a spirited design refresh with a trusted powertrain and essential safety tech, making it a compelling package for young buyers. With only a limited number expected, early bookings are recommended.
Hero Vida VX2 Teaser Confirms Drum Brakes, Not Disc—Targeting Entry‑Level Market
Hero MotoCorp’s EV arm, Vida, has revealed a teaser of the upcoming VX2 electric scooter, confirming it will feature drum brakes at both front and rear, ditching the more premium disc brake setup seen on the Vida V2
Key Insights from the Teaser
Budget-focused upgrades: Drum brakes, smaller TFT display, flat single-seat and a traditional physical key slot indicate cost reductions
Shared platform with Vida V2: VX2 uses the same V2 platform and internal hardware (battery, motor), but with simplified styling—think soft curves in splashy red
Multiple variants expected: Trademark filings point to VX2 Go, VX2 Plus, and VX2 Pro trims—suggesting a tiered approach to pricing and features
Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) Model
Vida will introduce its Battery-as-a-Service program on the VX2, allowing buyers to exclude the battery from initial purchase and instead subscribe or pay based on usage—reducing upfront costs significantly
Launch Details & Expected Pricing
Launch date: Definitely 1 July 2025 across India
Price positioning: Aimed below the Vida V2 range (~₹74k–₹1.20 L), likely between ₹70k–₹1.05 L ex-showroom, especially with BaaS removing battery cost
What It Means for Buyers
Affordability first: Drum brakes and pared-down features reduce costs while retaining brand trust.
Flexible ownership: BaaS model lowers entry price and offers adaptability as battery needs change.
Entry‑segment rivalry: VX2 will compete directly with Bajaj Chetak 2901, TVS iQube base variant, and Ola S1 X.
Final Take
With the Vida VX2, Hero is betting big on volume with a strategy of toned-down specs, budget pricing, and innovative battery subscription. If hands-on review, variant pricing, or spec comparisons are needed, I’d be happy to help fine-tune this for CarTopNews!
