Auto News Of The Week: Major SUV Launches, Big Bookings And Tech Updates In India

The Indian automobile industry witnessed a high impact week with multiple launches, variant price announcements, booking milestones and future model confirmations. From refreshed SUVs entering showrooms to hybrid features being confirmed for upcoming models, the week clearly showed where the market is heading

MG Hector Facelift Launch Brings Fresh Design And Features At Lower Entry Price

The MG Hector facelift has officially reached dealerships across India with a revised starting price of Rs 11.99 lakh (ex showroom). This update focuses on styling changes and new technology while keeping the mechanical setup unchanged

What Has Changed In The MG Hector Facelift

MG has made smart upgrades that improve daily use without increasing complexity.

• New front grille with hexagonal pattern gives a stronger road presence
• LED headlights remain the same, keeping familiar visibility performance
• 14 inch touchscreen now supports gesture controls
• Two finger swipe adjusts air conditioning
• Three finger swipe manages audio controls

Interior And Comfort Updates

The cabin now feels more premium and practical for families.

• Dual tone Urban Tan interior theme
• Panoramic sunroof improves cabin openness
• Ventilated front seats for hot weather comfort
• Infinity premium sound system

Engine And Seating Options

The powertrain setup remains reliable and buyer-friendly

• 5 liter turbo petrol engine
• Output: 141 bhp and 250 Nm torque
• Manual and CVT gearbox options
• Diesel engine option expected later

The SUV is offered in five variants including Style and Savvy Pro, with 5-seater and 7-seater layouts

Safety Package

The Hector facelift continues to offer a strong safety mix

• Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance System
• Six airbags
• 360-degree camera system

New paint options like Celadon Blue add freshness. While top variants are priced higher, the base variant is nearly Rs 2 lakh cheaper than before, making it more accessible

Tata Sierra Accomplished And Accomplished+ Variant Prices Announced

Tata Motors has revealed prices for the Tata Sierra Accomplished and Accomplished+ trims, targeting buyers who want premium features in a compact SUV body style

Tata Sierra Variant Pricing Details

These variants sit above the base trims and focus on added comfort and technology.

• Accomplished variant priced at Rs 17.99 lakh (ex-showroom)
• Accomplished+ variant priced at Rs 20.29 lakh (ex-showroom)

Feature Highlights

The higher trims deliver a more upscale experience

• Larger infotainment and digital driver displays
• Advanced driver assistance features
• Improved interior quality and materials

The Accomplished+ variant crosses the Rs 20 lakh mark, especially for automatic versions, making it ideal for buyers seeking premium upgrades

Engine Options

The Sierra offers flexibility for different driving needs.

• 5-liter petrol engine
• Turbo-petrol option
• Diesel engine choice

Base variants start at Rs 11.49 lakh, making the Sierra appealing across budget ranges

Tata Sierra Records Over 70,000 Bookings In Just 24 Hours

The response to the Tata Sierra has been massive, with the SUV crossing 70,000 confirmed bookings within the first 24 hours

Booking And Delivery Timeline

Strong demand highlights buyer trust in Tata’s design and safety focus

• Over 70,000 confirmed bookings on day one
• Around 1.35 lakh customers shortlisted configurations
• Deliveries scheduled to begin from January 15, 2026

Buyer Preferences

Early data shows clear trends.

• More than 50 percent bookings for diesel variants
• Strong interest in higher trims
• Pricing ranges from Rs 11.49 lakh to nearly Rs 25 lakh

The Sierra’s boxy styling, combined with modern features, has successfully tapped into nostalgia while meeting current expectations.

Mahindra XUV 7XO Bookings Open With Rs 21,000 Token Amount

Mahindra has opened bookings for the Mahindra XUV 7XO, a refreshed and upgraded version of its popular SUV lineup

Booking And Launch Details

The booking process is simple and flexible

• Token amount set at Rs 21,000
• Official launch scheduled for January 5, 2026
• Buyers can choose engine, gearbox and dealership during booking

Engine And Performance Options

Mahindra continues its focus on powerful diesel options

• 2.2-liter diesel engine
• Two output levels:
  • 155 bhp with 360 Nm
  • 185 bhp with 450 Nm
• Manual and automatic transmissions

Key Features Expected

The XUV 7XO aims to offer a premium SUV experience.

• Triple-screen dashboard layout
• Massaging front seats
• Panoramic sunroof
• All-wheel drive expected on diesel automatic versions

This SUV is positioned as a strong family upgrade with added comfort and performance

BMW Speedtop Concept Design Patented In India Signals Luxury Focus

BMW has patented the BMW Speedtop Concept design in India, indicating long-term planning for the premium segment

What The Patent Suggests

While no launch is confirmed, the design protection is significant

• Shooting-brake body style
• Low and wide stance
• High-performance design language

Global Background

The concept was first showcased internationally.

• Based on BMW M8 platform
• Powered by a V8 engine
• Unveiled at Villa d’Este
• Limited production run of 70 units globally

Although India-specific launch plans are unclear, the patent adds excitement to the luxury car space

2026 Kia Seltos Hybrid Confirmed With Vehicle-To-Load Technology

Kia has confirmed that the 2026 Kia Seltos Hybrid will feature Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality adding practical value to the SUV

What V2L Means For Buyers

This feature allows the vehicle to supply power externally

• Can run small electrical devices
• Useful for outdoor trips and camping
• Acts as emergency power backup

Hybrid Powertrain Details

The hybrid setup balances performance and efficiency

• Combined output of 139 hp
• Torque rating of 264 Nm
• Possible electric all-wheel drive option globally

The global model also features a larger body, reclining rear seats and panoramic sunroof. India-specific details are yet to be finalized, but V2L remains the key highlight

Nissan Confirms Three New Vehicle Launches For India

Nissan has officially confirmed three upcoming products for the Indian market, signaling renewed commitment

Upcoming Nissan Models

The lineup covers multiple segments.

• Nissan Gravite
  • Sub-4 meter MPV
  • Launch expected January 2026
  • Showroom rollout by March
• Nissan Tekton
  • Mid-size SUV
  • Launch planned for mid-2026
  • Will compete with Creta and Seltos
  • Built on CMF-B platform
• New 7-Seater SUV
  • Launch expected in early 2027
  • Different from Tekton
  • Focus on family buyers

These launches aim to bring affordable and practical options to Indian customers

Maruti Suzuki Victoris Wins Indian Car Of The Year 2026

The Maruti Suzuki Victoris has won the ICOTY 2026 award, standing out among strong competitors

Why Victoris Won The Award

The jury highlighted overall value and safety

• 5-star Bharat NCAP safety rating
• Level 2 ADAS
• 360-degree camera

Engine And Feature Highlights

The Victoris offers multiple fuel choices.

• 5-liter mild-hybrid petrol
• Strong-hybrid option
• CNG variant

Key features include powered and ventilated seats, premium audio with Dolby Atmos and sunroof

Pricing

Price range: Rs 10.50 lakh to Rs 19.99 lakh

This win reinforces Maruti Suzuki’s strength in delivering value-focused vehicles