Auto News of the Week- SUVs, Facelifts, and a Stylish Convertible Make Headlines in India

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Mahindra xuv 7xo to be launched on January 5 2026, teasers out!

Mahindra has officially confirmed that the XUV 7XO will launch globally on January 5, 2026. This SUV is the facelifted version of the XUV700 and promises to bring sharper styling, a more premium cabin and advanced technology for Indian families seeking a modern midsize SUV

Launch and Positioning

• The XUV 7XO will launch first in India which is the primary market for Mahindra SUVs
• Prices are expected to start at around Rs 15 lakh (ex showroom)
• It will compete directly with other popular mid size SUVs like Tata Harrier, MG Hector and Hyundai Alcazar
• Designed as a family friendly three row SUV, it focuses on space, performance and modern features

Exterior Design Highlights

• New front fascia with a muscular grille and sleeker LED headlights
• Reprofiled front and rear bumpers give it a bolder road presence
• Updated alloy wheels and rear LED signatures enhance the premium look
• Follows Mahindra’s latest SUV design language

Interior Features Expected

• Teasers suggest a triple screen dashboard layout with a digital instrument cluster, central infotainment screen and passenger side display
• Likely to include Harman Kardon sound system, ambient lighting and improved upholstery
• Advanced connected car features expected to provide modern convenience and tech rich experience

Engines and Performance

• Likely to retain the 2.0 liter mStallion turbo petrol and 2.2 liter mHawk turbo diesel engines
• 6 speed manual and automatic transmissions available
• Diesel variants may include all wheel drive suitable for highways and mild off-road driving

2025 Tata Sierra Smart+, Pure, Adventure Price List Revealed: Check Details Here

Tata Motors has revealed the official pricing for the 2025 Tata Sierra covering Smart+, Pure and Adventure trims. The Sierra combines retro inspired design with modern technology and offers both petrol and diesel options

Variant Wise Price Highlights (Ex Showroom)

• Smart+:- Starts at Rs 11.49 lakh for the 1.5 petrol manual making it an entry level SUV option
• Pure- Starts around Rs 12.99 lakh for petrol manual, with higher trims including dual clutch automatic and diesel variants reaching Rs 15.99 lakh
• Adventure:- Begins at Rs 15.29 lakh, with Adventure+ automatic variants going up to Rs 18.49 lakh competing with Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos and MG Hector

Engines and Transmission

• Petrol engines- 1.5 liter naturally aspirated and 1.5-liter Kryojet turbo-petrol
• Transmission options- 6-speed manual, dual-clutch automatic (DCA) and 6 speed automatic depending on the variant
• Diesel engine offered in selected trims for long distance users focusing on fuel efficiency and torque

Features and Focus Areas

• Lower trims like Smart+ and Pure offer large touchscreen infotainment, connected technology and safety features
• Adventure trims focus on touring and lifestyle use with added convenience and possibly off-road friendly touches
• The 2025 Sierra aims to attract urban tech savvy buyers as well as adventure enthusiasts

MG Hector Facelift Gets Confirmed December 15 Launch Date

MG Motor has confirmed that the Hector facelift will be unveiled on December 15, 2025 keeping the SUV competitive in India’s midsize SUV segment

Exterior Updates

• New front grille with chrome accents and updated lower bumper with redesigned skid plate
• Retains LED headlamps and full width LED taillight bar
• Minor tweaks to bumpers and alloy wheel designs provide a refreshed premium look

Interior and Features

• The cabin layout remains largely familiar
• Infotainment system updated with new software and connected features
• Likely features- fully digital instrument cluster, panoramic sunroof, connected-car suite and advanced safety tech

Launch Timeline and Market Position

• Hector and Hector Plus will be unveiled on December 15, 2025 with price announcements expected in early 2026

MG aims to maintain Hector’s position as a value packed family SUV competing against Tata Harrier, Mahindra XUV 7XO, Kia Seltos and Hyundai Creta

2026 Kia Seltos Debuts in India With Refreshed Design

The 2026 Kia Seltos has debuted in India with major design changes and improved interior features keeping it competitive in the compact SUV segment

Exterior Updates

• Larger tiger nose grille with vertical LED DRLs
• Redesigned front and rear bumpers with gunmetal skid plates
• Rear tail lamps redesigned with a connected light setup
• New 18 inch alloy wheels for a premium look

Interior and Technology

• New dual tone leatherette dashboard with a flat bottom steering wheel
• Large curved display combining instrument cluster and infotainment
• Safety and comfort- ADAS features, 360 degree camera, ventilated seats, electronic parking brake

Engine and Transmission Options

• Petrol:- 1.5 liter naturally aspirated and 1.5 liter turbo petrol
• Diesel:- 1.5 liter turbo diesel
• Transmission- 6 speed manual, CVT (iVT), 7 speed DCT, 6 speed automatic catering to different driving needs

Kia plans to announce prices in early 2026. The new Seltos competes with Tata Sierra, Hyundai Creta and MG Hector

Mini Convertible Launched in India at Rs 58.5 Lakh

The Mini Convertible is now available in India at Rs 58.5 lakh (ex showroom). It brings premium open-top driving to Indian roads

Performance and Driving

• Powered by a 2.0 liter engine with 204 hp
• Accelerates 0–100 km/h in 6.9 seconds
• Front wheel drive with a tuned automatic gearbox for city and highway use

Design and Roof Functionality

• Latest Mini design with round LED headlamps and vertical LED taillamps
• Soft-top roof opens/closes in 18 seconds at speeds up to 30 km/h
• Boot space- 160 liters with roof down, 215 liters when closed

Interior Features

• Minimalist cabin with a circular OLED display for instruments and infotainment
• Features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, digital key, Harman Kardon audio, head-up display and wireless charging
• The Mini Convertible combines fun driving, premium features and compact size, catering to luxury car buyers seeking an open-top experience