autoX - founded autoX in 2006 with little clue of what lay ahead. Driven by a passion for anything on four wheels and a stubborn will to succeed, he moulded a team as pig-headed

My love for automobiles and curiosity about technology motivated me to pursue a career in motoring journalism. There's no denying that I'm a true petrolhead. Growing up, I was and continue to be a passionate Hot Wheels collector. When I'm not in my cubicle, I like to travel and explore new places, capturing beautiful moments and locations with my camera.

<p>The Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder now costs more to bring home, with prices in India going up by as much as Rs 42,700. The revision is already in effect across dealerships and applies to petrol, CNG and strong-hybrid variants. The Urban Cruiser Hyryder is Toyota’s midsize SUV in India and shares its platform with the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara. Even with the orice hike it has the same engines and feature list. You still get the hybrid system, the AWD option on the top trim and the same equipment across the range, but the entry and top-end prices have moved up.</p><p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.autox.com/news/car-news/hyundai-i20-becomes-more-affordable-in-india-prices-now-begin-at-rs-599-lakh-122847/">Hyundai i20 Becomes More Affordable in India, Prices Now Begin at Rs 5.99 Lakh</a></p><p>The Hyryder line-up continues to offer multiple engine options. Buyers can choose from a petrol manual, petrol automatic, CNG and the strong-hybrid version. The hybrid setup pairs a petrol engine with an electric motor and runs through an e-CVT gearbox. The top variant also retain an all-wheel-drive system linked to the petrol manual. Toyota has not made any mechanical updates with this price revision, so performance figures and transmission options remain unchanged.</p><p>
      <div style="width: 100%; height: auto;" class="post-image">
        <img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2023/10/Toyota-Hyryder-rear-right-quarter-1.jpg" alt="Toyota Hyryder Rear Right Quarter 1" style="width: 100%; height: auto;">
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    </p><p>Dealerships are also offering an optional Tech Package for the Hyryder. This dealer-level add-on includes a heads-up display, dash camera and ambient lighting. It can be fitted to select variants and sits outside the standard variant list. Higher trims continue to get a touchscreen infotainment system, connected car tech and driver assistance features. The equipment list remains the same despite the latest price change.</p><p><img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2023/10/Toyota-Hyryder-Cockpit-View1.jpg" alt="Toyota Hyryder Cockpit View1" style="width: 100%; height: auto;"></p><p>The Hyryder continues to play a key role in Toyota’s India portfolio and remains one of the brand’s higher-volume models. It operates in the midsize SUV segment and shares its base and powertrain options with a related model sold in the same category. The availability of petrol, hybrid and CNG options within one line-up continues to attract buyers looking at running costs and fuel efficiency.</p><p>Toyota has revised Hyryder pricing multiple times since its launch, and the February 2026 update is the latest step in that cycle. The new ex-showroom prices are now in effect across India, with bookings open and deliveries underway depending on variant availability.</p>

Toyota Hyryder Becomes Expensive by Rs 42,700 in India; Check New Prices

Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder price increased by up to Rs 42,700 in India. Updated prices now in effect across petrol, CNG and strong-hybrid variants for 2026.

<p>Andrea Kimi Antonelli’s garage has gained a rare addition as the Mercedes F1 driver takes delivery of the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+ Motorsport Collectors Edition. Limited to 200 units worldwide, the model comes as part of his factory driver allocation and links directly to his role on the F1 grid. The handover took place in Europe as pre-season preparations gather pace, and the GT 63 PRO highlights Antonelli’s fast rise within the Mercedes set-up. It also continues the brand’s practice of placing its F1 drivers in one of its most track-focused road cars.</p><p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/f1-mercedes-unveils-w17-car-and-livery-for-2026-season-122755/">F1: Mercedes Unveils W17 Car and Livery for 2026 Season</a></p>


<h2>Mercedes-AMG GT 63 PRO Motorsport Edition: Engine and Performance</h2>
<p>This Motorsport Edition is a beefed-up AMG GT 63 PRO, powered by a 4.0-litre V8 biturbo heart pumping out a formidable 603bhp. That grunt is fed to the tarmac via the 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system, with the car hunkered down on ultra-sticky Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R rubber and reigned in by carbon-ceramic stoppers.</p>
<p>Visually, Mercedes has opted for the AMG Night Package II to sharpen the aesthetic. But it isn't all about looks, compared to the standard GT 63, this version boasts significant tweaks to cooling and aero-designed to handle punishing track sessions without losing its road-legal status.</p>
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<p>Taking the keys wasn't quite a straightforward process for the youngster, however, given the Italian legalities surrounding his age and driving experience. Italian law famously restricts new drivers from piloting high-performance 'supercars' during their first few years on the road. </p>
<p>It took a bespoke licensing arrangement to bypass the red tape, allowing the car to be registered and handed over legally. For now, the V8 beast remains a crown jewel in his official Mercedes company car allocation.</p>
<h2>Kimi Antonelli and Mercedes-AMG</h2>
<p>The Bologna-born driver has been under the wing of the Mercedes junior programme since 2019, climbing the single-seater ladder before his high-profile promotion to the top flight. After stepping into a race seat for the 2025 season, he remains a focal point of the team’s current campaign and their long-term vision.</p>
<p><img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2024/08/F1-Kimi-Antonelli-1-.jpg" alt="F1 Mercedes Driver Kimi Antonelli " style="width: 100%; height: auto;"></p><p>With only 200 examples in existence, it’s a rare performance car to see on the roads. Inside the cabin, a mix of numbered plaques and bespoke trim reminds the driver of its place in the pecking order. This handover adds another high-performance AMG to Antonelli’s garage and underlines his growing link with Mercedes.</p>

Kimi Antonelli Takes Delivery of Mercedes-AMG GT 63 PRO Motorsport Edition

Kimi Antonelli takes delivery of the rare 603hp Mercedes-AMG GT 63 PRO Motorsport Edition. But can the F1 star legally drive it? Find out the details here.

MotoGP: Alex Marquez Tops 2026 Sepang Test in Factory-Spec Ducati GP26

Alex Marquez tops the 2026 MotoGP Sepang test on the final day. Ducati, Aprilia, Honda, Yamaha and KTM complete runs as teams prepare for the 2026 season opener.

<p>Jawa has shown the 730 Twin to global audiences, putting the focus back on a larger-capacity motorcycle built on a new twin-cylinder base. The bike comes from the Czech side of the brand and is not linked to the Jawa models produced for India. It sits in the middleweight space and signals the company’s next step as it works on a broader international range. The 730 Twin brings a new frame, revised hardware and a bigger engine that will support more motorcycles in the pipeline. Jawa will use this platform for future variants, so this reveal works as a preview of what is coming next. </p><p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.autox.com/news/bike-news/triumph-speed-twin-1200-cafe-racer-edition-unveiled-limited-to-800-units-globally-122786/">Triumph Speed Twin 1200 Cafe Racer Edition Unveiled, Limited to 800 Units Globally</a></p><p>The motorcycle points to a reset in strategy as the brand lines up a fresh set of twin-cylinder machines for global markets.</p><h2><strong>Jawa 730 Twin: Design</strong></h2><p>The <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-bikes/jawa/">Jawa</a> 730 Twin keeps things clean with a neo-retro layout built around a tubular steel trellis frame and an exposed engine. The tank, seat and tail form a cafe racer style silhouette that feels familiar but still fresh. Bodywork stays tight and the focus remains on the frame and engine layout. It mixes old-school cues with a modern platform that can support more variants down the line.</p><p>
      
    <img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2026/02/Jawa-730-Twin-Motorcycle-Neo-Retro-Motorcycle-Side-1770285835495.webp" alt="Jawa 730 Twin Motorcycle Neo-Retro Motorcycle Side.png" style="width: 100%; height: auto;"></p><p>The bike runs on 17-inch wheels and uses a single seat with an integrated rear light and number plate holder. LED lighting is used at both ends. The mid-mounted engine and straight exhaust give it a balanced side profile. The fuel tank looks compact and the seat height appears low. The stance works well for city use and longer highway rides, placing it right in the middleweight zone.</p><h2><strong>Jawa 730 Twin: Features</strong></h2><p>The 730 Twin gets a TFT screen with navigation and connectivity support. Suspension includes upside-down front forks and a rear monoshock from KYB. Braking hardware comes from Brembo with Bosch ABS in place. The fuel tank holds around 16 litres and dry weight sits close to 213kg. The hardware package keeps things simple and focused on road use with enough support for daily rides and weekend trips.</p><h2><strong>Jawa 730 Twin: Engine</strong></h2><p>At the centre sits a 730cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine. Output stands at about 74bhp, with torque near 68Nm. The engine uses fuel injection and a six-speed gearbox with chain drive. The new engine and chassis will support more variants in the future.</p><p>
      
    <img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2026/02/Jawa-730-Twin-Motorcycle-Neo-Retro-Motorcycle-Rear-1770285838754.webp" alt="Jawa 730 Twin Motorcycle Neo-Retro Motorcycle Rear.png" style="width: 100%; height: auto;"></p><p>The 730 Twin forms the base for Jawa’s next set of global motorcycles. This reveal shows where the brand is heading as it builds a larger line-up for global markets. The bike sets the tone for upcoming launches and marks a clear return to the middleweight segment with a new twin-cylinder platform.</p>

Jawa 730 Twin Motorcycle Globally Revealed with Neo-Retro Design 

Jawa 730 Twin is a neo-retro motorcycle powered by a new 730cc parallel-twin engine. This global middleweight platform will underpin future Jawa models and variants.

<p>Volkswagen Tayron R-Line pre-bookings have officially opened in India, bringing the highly anticipated three-row SUV a step closer to its market debut. Potential buyers can now reserve the Tayron R-Line with a booking amount of Rs 51,000 via authorised dealerships or the brand’s official website. This upcoming Volkswagen SUV will arrive as a Full Import (CBU) and is positioned above the Tiguan in the brand's India line-up. For those looking for a seven-seater SUVs in India, this model marks the return of a premium, large-format Volkswagen. Deliveries are expected to commence shortly after the official launch, once the initial batch reaches showrooms.</p><p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.autox.com/long-term-reports/volskwagen-tiguan-r-line-long-term-report-month-2-frolicking-around-122739/">Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line Long Term Report: Month 2 - Frolicking Around</a></p><p><a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/volkswagen/">Volkswagen </a>will offer the Tayron R-Line in seven distinct colour options for the Indian market, including White, Black, Blue, Red, and Grey, with several dual-tone combinations available. While the official Volkswagen Tayron R-Line price in India will be announced at launch, the opening of the order books allows early bird customers to secure their spot. </p><h2><strong>Volkswagen Tayron R-Line: Design</strong></h2><p>The Tayron R-Line design language follows the signature R-Line aesthetic, featuring a prominent grille that integrates seamlessly into a full-width front light bar. The aggressive bumper is flanked by advanced LED headlamps, while the side profile is defined by large alloy wheels and a sleek roof spoiler.</p><p>
      
    <img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2026/01/Volkswagen-Tayron-R-Line-Rear-1769143169991.webp" alt="Volkswagen Tayron R-Line Rear.png" style="width: 100%; height: auto;"></p><p> At the rear, the<a href="https://www.autox.com/suv-cars-in-india/"> SUV</a> features connected LED tail-lamps and distinct R-Line badging on the tailgate. Given its long-wheelbase MQB platform, the Tayron R-Line dimensions comfortably accommodate the three-row seating layout, making its position as a flagship family SUV clear.</p><h2><strong>Volkswagen Tayron R-Line: Interior </strong></h2><p>The Volkswagen Tayron R-Line interior follows the premium layout seen on the brand's latest global models. The cabin is headlined by a high-resolution digital instrument cluster and a large central touchscreen infotainment system set into a minimalist dashboard. As a dedicated seven-seater SUV, it features a split-folding second row and a versatile third row for additional passengers. </p><p>
      
    <img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2026/01/Volkswagen-Tayron-R-Line-Interior-1769143199288.webp" alt="Volkswagen Tayron R-Line Interior.png" style="width: 100%; height: auto;"></p><p>The India-spec feature list include a panoramic sunroof, advanced connected car technology, and a premium sound system, ensuring it competes strongly in the luxury SUV segment.</p><h2><strong>Volkswagen Tayron R-Line: Engine</strong></h2><p>The Volkswagen Tayron R-Line specifications are headlined by a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with a 7-speed DSG automatic gearbox. This powertrain produces 201bhp and 320Nm of torque, delivering power to all four wheels via an all-wheel-drive system.</p><p>
      
    <img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2026/01/Volkswagen-Tayron-R-Line-India-Assembly-1769142760822.webp" alt="Volkswagen Tayron R-Line India Assembly.png" style="width: 100%; height: auto;"></p><p>Built on the MQB platform, the Tayron shares its mechanical foundations and base structure with other premium global SUVs from the Volkswagen Group. </p><p>Once launched, the Tayron will provide a petrol-powered, three-row alternative to rivals like the <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/skoda/kodiaq/">Skoda Kodiaq </a>and <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/jeep/meridian/">Jeep Meridian</a>, significantly expanding Volkswagen’s SUV portfolio in India.</p>

Volkswagen Tayron R-Line Pre-Bookings Open Ahead of India Launch

Volkswagen Tayron R-Line pre-bookings open in India at Rs 51,000. The 7-seater SUV will get a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine for the Indian market.

<p>McLaren has revealed the Artura Spider MCL39 Championship Edition after sealing its 10th F1 Constructors’ title, and only 10 cars will be built worldwide. The limited-run model links directly to the 2025 F1 Season winner, the MCL39, which carried the team through the title-winning campaign and now brings that story to the road. Based on the Artura Spider, this edition adds design and cabin details tied to the championship season and forms part of McLaren’s special projects programme. Each unit will carry identifiers connected to the title and the restricted production run. </p><p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/f1-2026-new-mclaren-mcl40-renders-revealed-122767/">F1 2026: New McLaren MCL40 Renders Revealed</a></p><p>The launch keeps the connection between McLaren’s Formula 1 success and its road cars in focus, with this version acting as a clear bridge between the team’s latest championship season and its current hybrid supercar line-up.</p><h2><strong>McLaren Artura Spider MCL39 Championship Edition: Design</strong></h2><p>The exterior comes from <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/mclaren/">McLaren</a> Special Operations (MSO) and uses a two-tone finish in orange and black with graphics linked to the championship campaign. There are markers across the body that reference the title tally and the MCL39. </p><p><img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2026/02/McLaren-Artura-Spider-MCL39-Championship-Edition-Rear-1770269638800.webp" alt="McLaren Artura Spider MCL39 Championship Edition Rear.png" style="width: 100%; height: auto;"></p><p>Each car gets numbered plaques along with forged alloy wheels and a sports exhaust system. The overall design stays close to the Artura Spider but adds cues that point back to the car that delivered the Constructors’ crown.</p><h2><strong>McLaren Artura Spider MCL39 Championship Edition: Interior</strong></h2><p>The cabin keeps the Artura Spider layout but adds championship-linked details. Carbon fibre trim sits with Alcantara and leather surfaces. The headrests carry driver signatures, while a plaque marks the 10-unit run. The sill covers and floor mats also feature markers tied to the season. </p><p>
      
    <img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2026/02/McLaren-Artura-Spider-MCL39-Championship-Edition-Interior-1770269631176.webp" alt="McLaren Artura Spider MCL39 Championship Edition Interior.png" style="width: 100%; height: auto;"></p><p>The digital instrument display and central infotainment screen remain unchanged, with all additional elements handled by McLaren Special Operations.</p><h2><strong>McLaren Artura Spider MCL39 Championship Edition: Engine</strong></h2><p>The car uses the same plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system as the standard Artura Spider. A 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 pairs with an electric motor to produce 691bhp and 720Nm. Power goes to the rear wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The car can run in electric-only mode and supports plug-in charging. Performance figures remain in line with the regular Artura Spider, with no changes to the chassis or suspension.</p><p><img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2026/02/McLaren-Artura-Spider-MCL39-Championship-Edition-Front-1770269626758.webp" alt="McLaren Artura Spider MCL39 Championship Edition Front.png" style="width: 100%; height: auto;"></p><p>This edition follows the Constructors’ title secured by the MCL39 and continues McLaren’s run of building road cars to mark F1 milestones. Only 10 units will be allocated through the brand’s global network. Pricing has not been announced and will sit above the standard Artura Spider.</p>

McLaren Artura Spider MCL39 Championship Edition Revealed; Limited to 10 Units

McLaren celebrates its 10th F1 Constructors’ title with the Artura Spider MCL39 Championship Edition. Only 10 units of the 691bhp hybrid supercar will be produced globally.

<p>Williams has put the FW48 on track for the first time, with its 2026 F1 car completing a shakedown at Silverstone and getting the season build-up underway. The Grove outfit used a filming day to finally give the new car its first laps after missing the earlier Barcelona running. Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz shared time in the cockpit as the team worked through early system checks, installation runs, and data collection. For Williams, this Silverstone shakedown was all about getting mileage on the FW48 and making sure everything worked before pre-season testing. </p><p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/f1-haas-signs-jack-doohan-as-reserve-driver-for-2026-122828/">F1: Haas Signs Jack Doohan as Reserve Driver for 2026</a>&nbsp;</p><p>After weeks of simulator work and factory prep, the car is now running, and attention turns to building momentum ahead of the Bahrain tests and the 2026 Formula 1 season opener.</p><p>
      
    <img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2026/02/2026-F1-Williams-FW48-(3)-1770137154530.webp" alt="2026 F1 Williams FW48 (3).png" style="width: 100%; height: auto;"></p><p>The FW48 reached Silverstone later than planned following build delays that ruled Williams out of the Barcelona session. That made this first outing more important, even within filming day limits. Engineers focused on reliability runs and basic checks to confirm that all systems operated as expected before the full test schedule starts.</p><h2>F1: 2026 Williams' Driver Lineup</h2><p>Alex Albon stays with Williams after leading its 2025 campaign. He scored the majority of the team’s points last season and delivered regular top-ten finishes. His role continues into 2026, giving the team continuity as it begins work with the FW48 on track.</p><p>
      
    <img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2026/02/2026-Williams-Drivers-1770263916168.webp" alt="2026 Williams Drivers.png" style="width: 100%; height: auto;"></p><p>Carlos Sainz has started his Williams stint after moving from Ferrari at the end of 2025. He comes in after a season that included podiums and regular points finishes. The Silverstone run marked his first laps in the FW48 and his first proper track time with the team ahead of testing.</p><h2>F1: Bahrain Pre-Season Test</h2><p>The Silverstone running took place under filming day rules, with restricted mileage and control tyres in use. Williams ran an interim test livery and will head to Bahrain for another filming day before pre-season testing begins. The team plans to build mileage quickly as it prepares for the start of the 2026 Formula 1 season in March.</p>

F1: Williams FW48 Makes Track Debut at Silverstone Shakedown

Williams debuts the FW48 at Silverstone, with Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon completing a key shakedown after missing the 2026 F1 Barcelona Shakedown.

<p>Nissan Motor India has confirmed that the Nissan Gravite will make its India debut on 17 February 2026. The MPV was earlier expected to break cover in January, but the plan has shifted slightly. This reveal is important for Nissan as it adds a new model to its India line-up, which currently includes only the Magnite, while also giving buyers one more option to consider. With demand steady for compact seven-seat vehicles, the Gravite enters a space where buyers want room for a larger family without pushing up their budget. For anyone watching Nissan closely, this MPV sets the tone for what the company wants to do next in the market.</p><p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.autox.com/news/industry-news/china-bans-flush-door-handles-over-safety-risks-will-india-follow-122835/">China Bans Flush Door Handles Over Safety Risks: Will India Follow?</a></p><p>In terms of design, the <a href="Nissan Gravite">Nissan Gravite </a>is based on the CMF-A+ platform, the same base used by the Renault Triber. The proportions and stance will look familiar, but Nissan has given the MPV its own face. Teasers show a grille layout and lighting pattern that follow Nissan’s current design language. Changes to the bumpers and trim should help separate it from its platform sibling on the road.</p><p><img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2025/12/Nissan-Gravite-MPV-1766130229235.webp" alt="Nissan Gravite MPV.jpg" style="width: 100%; height: auto;"></p><p>The interior is expected to focus on space and flexibility. A three-row, seven-seat layout is likely, with foldable seats to switch between passengers and luggage when needed. The cabin layout should stay straightforward, aimed at daily use. <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/nissan/">Nissan</a> may add its own touches to the dashboard and infotainment layout, while keeping the overall setup easy to live with.</p><p><img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2025/12/Nissan-Gravite-Rear-Teaser-1766043111359.webp" alt="Nissan Gravite Rear Teaser.jpg" style="width: 100%; height: auto;"></p><p>Under the bonnet, the Gravite is expected to use a 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine. Buyers should get a choice between a five-speed manual gearbox and an automated manual transmission. This engine and gearbox combination is already familiar in the segment, with the focus expected to be on smooth city driving and steady highway runs.</p><p>When it arrives in showrooms, the Nissan Gravite is expected to sit in the Rs 6 lakh to Rs 9 lakh range. That places it among entry-level seven-seat MPVs in India. The launch also opens the door for more Nissan models, with SUVs planned as part of the brand’s India roadmap leading up to 2027.</p>

Nissan Gravite MPV to Make India Debut On February 17

Nissan Gravite MPV to debut in India on February 17. Based on the Triber platform, it targets buyers seeking an affordable seven-seat option in the compact MPV space.

<p>China is set to ban flush and hidden door handles on passenger cars from 1 January 2027, and this one has caught the attention of car fans worldwide. The rule comes from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology and focuses on one simple point: doors must open even when everything else fails. Every car sold in China will need proper mechanical door handles that work from inside and outside without relying on electronics. Existing models will get time until 1 January 2029 to comply. With electric cars dominating new launches, this move shows how safety is starting to outweigh design trends. It also means carmakers will need to rethink future updates, especially for EVs that depend heavily on powered systems.</p><p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.autox.com/news/industry-news/mahindra-clocks-25-growth-in-january-with-63510-units-sold-122823/">Mahindra Clocks 25% Growth in January with 63,510 Units Sold</a></p><p>The decision follows reports of crashes where doors could not be opened after a power cut. In cars with electric flush handles, both passengers and rescue teams struggled to gain access. Mechanical handles remove that risk and allow doors to be opened instantly. In emergency situations, seconds matter, and regulators want to avoid any barrier that delays exit or rescue.</p><p>Flush door handles became popular with modern EV design. Tesla played a big role in making them mainstream, and many Chinese electric cars adopted the same approach. While the setup looked clean and helped with airflow, problems surfaced when batteries failed or software froze. As EV numbers increased, these real-world issues became harder to ignore.</p><p>The ban will apply to both local and international brands selling cars in China. Carmakers must now use visible, hand-operated handles with enough space for easy use. Semi-hidden designs may still be allowed if they include a full mechanical backup. This change will affect upcoming launches and mid-life updates across several models.</p><p>In India, the situation is being closely watched. Flush door handles are already seen on cars from Mahindra and Tata Motors, especially in EVs and SUVs. Any similar move here would need safety data and industry discussions. There is no plan yet, but China’s decision could push the conversation forward.</p>

China Bans Flush Door Handles Over Safety Risks: Will India Follow?

China will ban flush door handles from January 2027 after safety concerns linked to failures in crashes, where doors stayed shut, leading to injuries and reported deaths.

<p>Fuel prices just refuse to calm down, and that alone is changing how people look at their next car. Hybrid options are no longer niche, and <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/maruti-suzuki/">Maruti Suzuki</a> knows it. After rolling out strong hybrids in models like the Grand Vitara, Victoris and Invicto, the brand is now lining up the Fronx Strong Hybrid for buyers who want the same mileage advantage in a smaller, city-friendly sub-compact SUV. This one is clearly aimed at everyday use. Better efficiency, easier running costs, and a familiar footprint are the priorities here, without pushing buyers into a bigger or more expensive segment.</p><p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.autox.com/news/car-news/maruti-suzuki-fronx-hybrid-spotted-testing-with-adas-in-india-to-launch-in-2026-121772/">Maruti Suzuki Fronx Hybrid Spotted Testing with ADAS In India; To Launch in 2026?</a></p><p>Maruti Suzuki is expected to use its 1.2-litre Z12E three-cylinder petrol engine in the <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/maruti-suzuki/fronx/">Fronx</a> Strong Hybrid. The battery pack is likely to be positioned under the front passenger seat, similar to the layout seen on the fourth-generation Swift in global markets, helping maintain a familiar cabin ergonomics.</p><p>In India, this Z-series engine already powers the new Swift and Dzire without any hybrid support, where it produces around 80bhp and 111.7Nm. In the Fronx Hybrid, the focus is clearly on keeping things smooth and efficient rather than chasing performance figures, especially for daily city driving.</p><p><img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2024/05/2024-Maruti-Suzuki-Swift-Engine.jpg" alt="2024 Maruti Suzuki Swift Engine" style="width: 100%; height: auto;"></p><p>Mileage is where the Fronx Strong Hybrid is expected to stand out. Early estimates point to figures of between 30 and 37kmpl, which is a big deal for a compact<a href="https://www.autox.com/suv-cars-in-india/"> SUV</a>. For people who deal with traffic every day, that kind of efficiency can mean fewer fuel stops and lower running costs over time.</p><p>
      
    <img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2023/08/Fronx-Interior.jpg" alt="Fronx Interior" style="width: 100%; height: auto;"></p><p>Inside, the Fronx cabin is expected to remain familiar, with a few changes to suit the hybrid setup. Expect hybrid power flow displays, a refreshed touchscreen system, and drive modes like EV-only, eco, and sport. On the outside, changes are likely to be kept simple. Hybrid badging and small design updates, such as new accents or colour options, are expected to set it apart from the regular Fronx. </p><p>Expected to arrive before May, the Fronx Strong Hybrid will go up against the <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/hyundai/venue/">Hyundai Venue,</a><a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/kia/sonet/"> Kia Sonet</a>,<a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/tata/nexon/"> Tata Nexon</a> and <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/mahindra/xuv-3xo/">Mahindra XUV 3XO</a>, finally giving buyers a proper hybrid option in the compact SUV segment.</p>

Maruti Suzuki Fronx Strong Hybrid: All You Need to Know

Maruti Suzuki Fronx Hybrid has already been seen on Indian roads with its hybrid setup, and is expected to return mileage figures of around 35kmpl.

Divyam Dubey

Articles By Divyam Dubey