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    Mercedes GLC EV Debuts – 94 kWh, 490 bhp, 713 km Range, 39.1” Hyperscreen

    Mercedes GLC EV DebutsAt the Munich Motor Show in Germany, Mercedes-Benz has debuted its next ambitious EV project in the form of GLC with EQ Technology. Or GLC EV, in simple words. Based on the MB.EA architecture, GLC with EQ Technology is set to replace the EQE SUV some time in 2026. Let’s take a closer look.
    Mercedes GLC EV Debuts
    Tasked with replacing the EQE SUV, Mercedes-Benz has just unveiled GLC EV at Munich Motor Show. Called GLC with EQ Technology, this new electric SUV is likely to be the company’s best-selling EV, considering how popular the ICE version is. When launched some time in 2026, it will directly rival BMW Neue Klasse iX3.
    Mercedes GLC EV
    Just like GLC SUV, GLC EV retains its muscular and upright SUV-ish silhouette, unlike the EQE SUV which had an aerodynamic and sleek profile. Despite being just as butch as ICE GLC SUV, Mercedes claims that GLC EV has an air drag coefficient of 0.26 Cd. The main highlight at the front is its 942 backlit LED dots on the massive grille.
    Mercedes GLC EV
    LED headlights get a three-pointed star shape signature along with an eyebrow like LED DRL bar on top. At the rear, LED tail light signature has been revised as well with three-pointed star shaped shapes engulfed in semi-circular light bars. 20-inch standard alloy wheels (21-inch optional), faux roof rails, flush door handles, large air intakes in front bumper, sporty rear bumper are notable.
    Mercedes GLC EV 39.1-inch Hyperscreen
    On the inside, main attraction is its 39.1-inch Hyperscreen, which is the biggest Mercedes has ever put in a vehicle. Almost the entire dashboard is taken up by this Hyperscreen and has even gobbled up most or all physical controls on dash and centre console. There are a few physical controls on the steering wheel, though.
    Mercedes GLC EV
    This screen runs on newer MBUX UI and packs a built-in AI assistant. Overall materials and quality seems to on the premium side, which is a given for Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
    Mercedes GLC EV
    Specs & Powertrain
    Underpinning Mercedes GLC EV is the 800V MB.EA platform with support for up to 330 kW DC fast charging. Depending on the market, Mercedes will launch GLC EV in multiple variants GLC 300+ and GLC 400 4Matic. Both variants will get the same 94 kWh battery pack with up to 713 km of range on a single charge.
    Mercedes GLC EV
    The higher-spec GLC 400 4Matic will use two electric motors (one on each axle) and deliver a peak combined output of 489 bhp and 713 km of range. GLC 300+ will use a single motor in a RWD layout generating 374 bhp of peak power. With a 330 kW DC fast charger, one can get 303 km worth of charge in just 10 minutes. More

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    Hero Xoom 160 First Ride Review – India’s Most Desirable Scooter?

    Hero Xoom 160 First Ride ReviewScooters are ubiquitous in India owing to their versatility. For starters, they are designed to be unisex, practical with a lot of storage, versatile and sensible. Hero MotoCorp has just launched its flagship scooter in India in the form of Xoom 160. For the Indian audience, Xoom 160 is not unisex and practical as it is the brand’s first non step-through scooter.
    So, versatility is lower with Xoom 160 and one would think that it might not have a lot of takers. However, what Xoom 160 has working in its favour is desirability. We experienced Xoom 160 for around half a day in Pune city across multiple road surfaces and this is what we think about Hero’s first maxi-style and India’s first ADV-styled scooter.
    Hero Xoom 160 Colours
    Hero Xoom 160 First Ride Review
    If you are wondering who the Xoom 160’s target demographic is, its people like me. I am a big guy and I love it when my scooter doesn’t look comically small under me. Xoom 160 doesn’t. I am in need of a motorcycle’s performance in a scooter format with underseat storage. Xoom 160 delivers. I need my scooter to be unique and not look generic. Xoom 160 stands out. I need something built to take on bad Indian roads and perform well on occasional highway rides. Xoom 160 fills the boots.
    Hero Xoom 160
    Hero MotoCorp is asking Rs 1,48,500 (Ex-sh) for Xoom 160 which undercuts its immediate rival, the Yamaha Aerox 155, by a margin of just a couple of thousand rupees. There are four colour options with Aerox 155 – Matte Rainforest Green, Canyon Red, Summit White and Matte Volcanic Grey. It has to be noted that Matte Rainforest Grey is the launch colour and Matte Volcanic Grey somewhat looks like Combat Edition colourway offered with other Hero products. Deliveries of Xoom 160 will start this month.
    Hero Xoom 160
    Design & Aesthetics
    Where design is concerned, Hero Xoom 160 is a grand slam dunk. I think this is the best-looking mainstream Indian scooter on sale today. It grabs a lot of eyeballs and the general consensus would unanimously agree that Xoom 160 is a ruggedly handsome machine. Hero is offering chunky side guards, a taller windscreen and a rear luggage rack with top box, among others, to make it even more rugged.
    Hero Xoom 160 Accessorised
    We get a maxi-style bodywork which offers wind protection on high speeds. There’s a dual chamber LED headlight setup, a sleek LED tail light signature along with halogen turn indicators. As standard, there’s a decently-sized tinted windscreen, 14-inch alloy wheels, sporty bodywork, a central spine housing a 7L fuel tank, a chunky exhaust, integrated rear grab rails, aluminium swingarm and more.
    Hero Xoom 160
    The single-piece seat is large in size, which is accommodating for most body sizes at both rider’s and pillion’s ends. Because it is built as a maxi-scooter with long distance touring in mind, Hero has given Xoom 160 a wide handlebar (for scooter standards) and a versatile footrest area offering riders both centre-set foot position for city riding and then a forward-set and inclined foot position for highway rides. Seating position is upright and comfortable.
    Hero Xoom 160
    Features & Components
    While the design of Hero Xoom 160 is sensational, features and functionalities are nothing to write home about. Sure, there are some features to boast about including the smart key fob with keyless go. It worked reliably and it will make everyday rides hasslefree. The keyfob even has buttons to release under-seat storage and then there are headlight button and a beep which will help in finding it in a parking spot.
    Hero Xoom 160 Smart Key
    Under-seat storage is around 22L and I was expecting more because the fuel tank has been moved towards floorboard. It did not accommodate my XL sized ADV-style full-face helmet, which is something I was hoping it would. There’s a LED boot light, which is nice. We get a fully-digital instrument cluster, same as Xpulse 200 and Xoom 125, which supports Bluetooth connectivity with turn-by-turn navigation.
    Hero Xoom 160 Block Pattern Tyres, Aluminium Swingarm
    There’s a parking brake, i3S engine stop / start feature and a single-channel ABS system working on front disc brake, while rear still gets a drum brake setup. We get a small glove box at the front with a USB Type-A port. 14-inch wheel design on Xoom 160 is similar to Xoom 125, tyres are not. For starters, Xoom 160 gets block-pattern tyres and they are much thicker. Xoom 125’s rear tyre (120-section) is Xoom 160’s front tyre and Xoom 160’s rear tyre is 140-section like on a sporty motorcycle.
    Hero Xoom 160 Wide Handlebar
    ADV-Like Ride & Handling
    Suspension is handled by 31mm front telescopic forks and rear twin shock-absorbers with generous amount of suspension travel. In typical Hero MotoCorp fashion, Xoom 160 gets the suspension setup right and Xoom 160 does not shatter your spine like its immediate rival does. Xoom 160 is very pleasant to ride around the city and on bad roads. The 14-inch alloys along with thick black-pattern tyres also boast rough road ability and some off-road ability too.
    Hero Xoom 160
    The floor board shape allows for an inclined forward-set foot area, which is comfortable on long hauls. Handling is quite sorted too. The larger 14-inch wheels are slightly slow to steer, but not significantly worse than 12-inch wheels. The ADV scooter has commendable handling characteristics, allowing you to carry higher speeds in corners. Braking is handled by front disc and rear drum config with single-channel ABS. Breaking performance was respectable as well.
    Hero Xoom 160
    Performance
    The main highlight of Xoom 160 apart from its brutish handsomeness is its powertrain. It comes with a new 156cc single-cylinder SOHC 4V/cyl liquid-cooled engine which is capable of generating 14.6 bhp at 8,000 RPM and 14 Nm at 6,500 RPM, mated to a CVT gearbox. One thing you would notice immediately is how refined the new engine on Xoom 160 is at both idling speeds and on higher RPMs.
    Hero Xoom 160
    One thing that caught me off-guard was the really long throttle. Like, really long. Much longer than the already long throttle on Xoom 125. To pull throttle all the way, one has to do hand gymnastics. The chunky exhaust lets out an appealing and bass-y exhaust note, which is likely to appeal to most buyers. Hero claims a 0-60 km/h sprint in 6.5 seconds and a 0-100m sprint on a 15-degree incline in 15.5 seconds.
    Hero Xoom 160
    Because of the 142 kg kerb weight, straight line stability is excellent at highway speeds. It does cross 100 km/h with ease and is more than happy to hold speeds for longer. I was sceptical about the 142 kg weight, but Xoom 160 masks its heft quite nicely. It didn’t feel overtly heavy even while moving it around in the parking lot. The smooth engine ensures less fatigue and no tingling sensation on your wrists. I could see myself willing to go long distances on Xoom 160.
    Hero Xoom 160
    Some Reservations
    When Hero showcased Xoom 160 at 2023 EICMA Show, I was quite interested in this scooter. The launch price, however, is Rs 1,48,500 (Ex-sh), which I would be more than willing to pay if the company loaded it with features and equipment that much more affordable Hero products get. Our reservations with Xoom 160 are:
    1. Cornering lights feature on Xoom 110 was gimmicky for a scooter of its class, but it would have made sense on a touring machine like Xoom 160.2. Xoom 125 gets swiping LED turn indicators, which are far more premium than Xoom 160’s halogen bulbs.3. Xoom 125 gets projector headlights, while Xoom 160 is reflector only.4. Hero Glamour X, a budget commuter, gets cruise control. But the Xoom 160, a touring machine, misses out on it despite the premium pricing.5. There’s no hazard light function on Xoom 160, which the Glamour X gets.6. A budget commuter like Glamour X gets Type-C USB port, while premium flagship scooter like Xoom 160 still gets Type-A USB port.7. Hero offers a modern colour LCD instrument cluster with Glamour X for just Rs 89,999, but Xoom 160 gets the much older cluster.8. An ADV scooter like Xoom 160 should have come with knuckle guards, but it doesn’t, even as an accessory.9. Like every other Hero MotoCorp ICE product I reviewed and Xoom 125 I own, I couldn’t get the app to connect with the cluster for Bluetooth and navigation features.10. Just like Mavrick 440, Xpulse 200 Pro and Vida VX2, I had issues with Xoom 160’s ORVM where it would flop around on its own.
    Hero Xoom 160
    With the equipment it has now, Xoom 160 should have launched in 2023 and it would have been okay. But it is launched in 2025 when rival brands have upped the game in features and equipment. Hero MotoCorp could have made a significantly better version of Xoom 160 with parts and components already lying around in the company’s parts bin, taking features from already launched products.
    Hero Xoom 160
    Should You Buy One?
    Hero MotoCorp is known to offer exceptional VFM propositions by significantly undercutting rivals. I recently purchased a Xoom 125 at a price point where rival brands were selling base variants of 110cc scooters (OTR, Karnataka). This VFM ethos I saw in Xoom 125, is missing in Xoom 160. Hero should have either crammed everything they can in Xoom 160 for the price, or priced it more competitively. Sadly, neither is the case.
    Hero Xoom 160
    That said, I would still consider the Xoom 160 as it offers an experience that no other mainstream scooter in India currently offers. I think this would be the perfect scooter for tall riders like myself who need a motorcycle’s performance with an under-seat storage and an ADV’s bad road ability (mostly). Even the powertrain is significantly more refined than its just launched rival. In my books, Xoom 160 is a proud notch in Hero MotoCorp’s premium lineup belt and it should be high up your shortlist. More

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    BSA Gold Star 650 Celebrates 1st Anniversary – Offers Up To Rs 40k Savings

    BSA Gold Star 650 Celebrates 1st AnniversaryIn addition to revised prices, enthusiasts choosing BSA Gold Star also benefit from a limited-edition accessory kit and exchange bonus
    As the festive season starts to roll, BSA has announced exciting offers on the Gold Star 650cc bike. These benefits are part of BSA Gold Star’s first anniversary celebration. As may be recalled, BSA Gold Star was launched in India in August 2024 at a starting price of Rs 2.99 lakh. With the anniversary offers, the bike is now a lot more accessible. Let’s check out the details.
    BSA Gold Star – Anniversary Offers
    BSA is offering a limited-edition accessory kit worth up to Rs 6,000. Marketed as the ‘Goldies Pack’, the accessory package includes accessories such as a rear rail, an exhaust shield, back rest and a windshield kit. As part of its anniversary celebration, BSA Gold Star is also available with an exchange bonus worth up to Rs 10,000.
    BSA Gold Star 650 Celebrates 1st Anniversary
    This is the first time an exchange bonus program has been introduced with BSA Gold Star. All types of two-wheelers can be exchanged under this program, including motorcycles and scooters. This will greatly benefit users who may be planning to upgrade their ride. Offers for the limited-period accessory kit and exchange bonus will be available from August 23 to September 23, 2025.
    BSA has also announced revised pricing for the Gold Star, following the recent changes in GST rates. While bikes up to 350cc will see a price drop, higher capacity bikes will be taxed at a higher rate. These higher rates will become applicable from 22nd September.
    BSA Gold Star 650 Celebrates 1st Anniversary
    Considering the upcoming price hike for higher capacity bikes, BSA is offering savings of up to Rs 23,702. This offer will be applicable for customers who purchase the Gold Star before September 21. Beyond that, the prices of the bike will increase as per the new GST rates. BSA Gold Star is currently available at a starting price of Rs 3.01 lakh.
    Performance, specs
    In the 650cc roadster segment, BSA Gold Star is the only bike to utilize a single-cylinder engine. The 652cc liquid-cooled, DOHC unit generates 45 hp and 55 Nm of peak torque. It is paired with a 5-speed gearbox. The engine is known for its refined and smooth performance. It is suitable for both everyday city rides as well as long-distance journeys across highways. Availability of an assist and slipper clutch reduces rider fatigue.
    BSA Gold Star has 41 mm telescopic forks and twin shock absorbers at the rear with 5-step adjustable preload. Wheel size is 18-inch at front and 17-inch at rear, wrapped in 100/90 and 150/70 Pirelli Phantom Sportscomp tyres, respectively. Braking setup comprises 320 mm and 255 mm discs at front and rear with dual-channel ABS. The bike weighs 201 kg and has a seat height of 782 mm.
    BSA Gold Star is preferred for its classic design, carrying the signature British design heritage. Some of the key features include a circular headlamp, smooth tear-drop fuel tank, iconic badge, circular rearview mirrors and single-piece seat. Other highlights include wire-spoke wheels, liberal use of chrome, pinstriping, LED lighting and crisp switchgear. More

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    Jawa, Yezdi Motorcycles Now Under Rs 2 Lakh – Savings Up To Rs 17k

    New Yezdi RoadsterClassic Legends, the company behind the revival of Jawa and Yezdi motorcycles in India, has announced revised pricing across its portfolio, bringing most of its models under the Rs 2 lakh mark (ex-showroom). The move comes in response to the recent GST 2.0 reforms, which reduced the tax rate on motorcycles below 350cc from 28% to 18%.
    This reduction directly benefits the Jawa and Yezdi range, powered by 293cc and 334cc liquid-cooled Alpha2 engines. The 334cc unit produces 29 PS of power and 30 Nm of torque, making it one of the stronger performers in the segment. With the GST cuts fully passed on to customers, models such as the Yezdi Adventure, Roadster, Scrambler and Jawa 42 Bobber have become more accessible to young riders looking for an entry into the performance-classic segment.
    Jawa Prices Post GST Reform
    Policy Shift Helps Restore Icons
    Decades ago, Jawa and Yezdi disappeared from the Indian market following a policy-driven ban on two-stroke motorcycles. Classic Legends says that another policy decision — this time in the form of GST rationalisation — is helping revive their relevance. The company believes that by making mid-capacity motorcycles more affordable, the reforms could energise India’s motorcycling culture.
    Co-founder of Jawa Yezdi Motorcycles, Anupam Thareja, said “The government’s bold and timely GST reforms will bring a tectonic shift for the greater good, echoing the historic transition from 2-stroke to 4-stroke engines. Classic Legends welcomes the GST rationalisation, especially the reduced rate of 18 percent for under-350cc motorcycles, which covers our 293cc and 334cc Jawa and Yezdi performance classics.”
    Yezdi Prices Post GST Reform
    “While it raises the tax burden for higher cc motorcycles such as our 652cc BSA Gold Star, we accept it as the hallmark of progressive taxation. The trade-off makes mid-segment bikes accessible to a larger rider community — a win for India’s motorcycling culture. We thank the Hon’ble Finance Minister for the fresh impetus for demand that will energise the economy amid a slowdown and global tariff wars. Decades ago, our brands faded due to a policy shift; today, policy foresight is helping restore their legendary stature. We will pass on 100% of the GST benefit to our customers. Coinciding with the festive season, we are telling young Indians who aspire to own a true iconic performance motorcycle: Your time is now”
    Lower Ownership Costs
    Beyond the upfront price cuts, Classic Legends is also extending the benefits of the GST reduction to after-sales components, which is expected to lower the cost of ownership. All motorcycles are supported by the Jawa Yezdi BSA Ownership Assurance Programme, which offers a 4-year/50,000 km standard warranty, optional extended coverage of up to six years, one year of roadside assistance, and maintenance plans. The company’s sales and service network has now expanded to more than 450 touchpoints across India, ensuring wider accessibility for customers.
    Festive Boost
    With these GST-led price revisions set to take effect just ahead of the festive season, Classic Legends expects to see strong demand from younger buyers aspiring to own a heritage motorcycle. The company has positioned Jawa and Yezdi as high-fashion retro machines, combining vintage-inspired design with modern engineering and technology tailored for Indian roads. By passing on 100% of the GST benefit, Classic Legends has signalled its intent to stay competitive in India’s expanding mid-capacity motorcycle segment while reinforcing the legacy appeal of its iconic brands. More

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    Vinfast VF 6 Launch Price Rs 16.49 L, VF 7 Rs 20.89 L – Market Disruptors?

    Vinfast VF 6 and VF 7 LaunchVietnamese brand Vinfast has officially launched two of its electric SUVs in India. The brand has established a manufacturing presence in India with the plant at Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu. Vinfast has begun the Indian innings with VF 6 and VF 7 electric SUVs and both of them were launched today. Let’s take a closer look.
    Vinfast VF 6 and VF 7 Launch
    The two electric SUVs Vinfast has launched in India are VF 6 and VF 7. Both these electric SUVs come with competitive pricing to attract buyers. Bookings were commenced in July 2025 for a token amount of Rs 21k and deliveries are likely to start soon.
    1. Vinfast VF 6
    VF 6 electric SUV has been launched in India at a starting price of Rs 16.49 lakh (Ex-sh). Vinfast is pitting VF 6 against the Tata Curvv, Mahindra BE 6, Hyundai Creta Electric, MG ZS EV and others. There are three variants of VF 6. These include Earth (Rs 16.49 lakh), Wind (Rs 17.17 lakh) and Wind Infinity (Rs 18.29 lakh) (all prices Ex-sh).
    Vinfast VF 6 Launch
    Where dimensions are concerned, Vinfast VF 6 measures 4,241 mm in length, 1,834 mm in width, 1,580 mm in height and has a 2,730 mm long wheelbase. The ground clearance is fairly decent at 190 mm. The alloy wheel size of VF 6 is 18-inches, which lend it a commanding presence on the road.
    Other notable exterior elements include full-width LED DRLs, flush door handles, LED headlight and tail light setup, cladding on doors, running boards and wheel arches, faux roof rails, roof spoiler and more. On the inside, VF 6 gets a 12.9-inch infotainment screen, a HUD, panoramic glass roof, ventilated front seats, dual-zone climate control, leatherette upholstery and more.
    Powering this SUV is a 59.6 kWh battery with 480 km promised range. There’s a single FWD motor with 204 bhp and 310 Nm with a 0-100 km/h sprint in 8.89s. VF 6 supports up to 7.2 kW AC chargers and then DC fast chargers. Safety suite includes Level-2 ADAS suite, 7 airbags as standard, 360-degree camera, auto headlights and wipers, electronic parking brake and more.
    Vinfast VF 7 Launch
    2. Vinfast VF 7
    Vinfast VF 7 has been launched in India for a starting price of 20.89 lakh for base Earth FWD, Rs 23.49 lakh for Wind FWD, Rs 23.99 lakh for Wind Infinity FWD, Rs 24.99 lakh for Sky AWD and Rs 25.49 lakh for Sky Infinity AWD (all prices Ex-sh). It will take on Mahindra XEV 9e, Tata Harrier EV and the likes.
    There’s a big jump in prices from Earth FWD to Wind FWD and that’s because only the base Earth FWD comes with the smaller 59.6 kWh battery shared with VF 6. Rest all variants get a 70.8 kWh battery promising a range of up to 450 km. FWD variants come with 204 bhp and 310 Nm motor, while AWD variants get a combined 350 bhp and 500 Nm.
    While exterior ethos are somewhat similar to VF 6, VF 7 is larger measuring 4,545 mm in length, 1,890 mm in width, 1,636 mm in height and has a 2,840 mm long wheelbase. Ground clearance is 190 mm and wheel size is 19-inches. On the inside, VF 7 shares most of its features with VF 6, except for larger space. More

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    TVS Apache 20th Anniversary Limited Edition Launched – 160, 180, 200, 310

    TVS Apache 20th Anniversary Limited EditionTVS Motor Company has introduced limited-edition anniversary models and new top-end trims across the Apache range to celebrate two decades of its flagship motorcycle brand. The launch includes upgrades for the Apache RTR 160 4V, RTR 200 4V, and commemorative editions across the RTR and RR lineup.
    Limited Anniversary Editions
    The special anniversary editions cover models like the RTR 160, RTR 180, RTR 200 4V, Apache RTR310, and RR310. These variants feature a black-and-champagne-gold livery, dual-tone alloy wheels, USB charging ports, and a 20-year anniversary logo, marking two decades of the Apache brand. Prices for these editions start at Rs 1,37,990 (ex-showroom, Delhi) for the RTR 160 and go up to Rs 3,37,000 for the RR310.
    Apache 160 Anniversary Range
    Apache 180 and 200 Anniversary Range
    Apache 310 Anniversary Range
    New Top-End RTR Variants
    The RTR 160 4V and RTR 200 4V have received new top-end trims with additional equipment. Both models now offer a Class-D projector headlamp with LED DRLs, a fully LED setup, and a 5-inch TFT instrument cluster with Bluetooth and voice assist. A traction control system, assist and slipper clutch, and refreshed colour schemes have also been introduced. Prices for the RTR 160 4V range from Rs 1,28,490 for the Black Edition to Rs 1,47,990 for the new top-end variant. The RTR 200 4V is priced from Rs 1,53,990, going up to Rs 1,59,990 for the newly introduced trim.
    New Top-End RTR Variants
    New Top-End RTR Variants
    New TVS Apache 4V lineup Features
    – All-new Class-D projector headlamp with LED DRLs, making the bikes fully LED-equipped– 5-inch TFT cluster with Bluetooth connectivity & Voice Assist– Traction Control System– Assist and Slipper clutch
    Striking new colours
    – Racing Red, Marine Blue, Matte Black (160 4V)– Matte Black, Granite Grey (200 4V)
    Pricing
    20 Years of Apache Legacy
    K N Radhakrishnan, Director and CEO, TVS Motor Company, said, “We are deeply grateful to the 6.5 million-strong TVS Apache community across the world whose unwavering trust and passion have shaped our journey over the last two decades. Their love for performance and adrenaline has propelled TVS Apache to become one of the fastest growing sports motorcycle brands, globally. This milestone belongs to every member of the TVSM family – our engineers, designers, factory teams, dealers, suppliers, and partners—who push the limits of innovation every day. As we look ahead, we remain focused on carrying forward the Apache legacy by entering new segments, expanding into more markets, and creating communities that inspire the next generation of riders.”
    Since its debut in 2005, the Apache brand has sold over 6.5 million units across 80 countries. Known for its “Track to Road” philosophy, the Apache lineup has consistently integrated racing technologies from TVS Racing into mass-market motorcycles. The latest upgrades aim to reinforce the brand’s position in India’s performance motorcycle segment while appealing to younger riders with advanced features and bold design updates. The updated Apache range with new variants and anniversary editions is now available at TVS dealerships across the country. More

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    Prices of Motorcycles Above 350cc Post New GST – Royal Enfield, Bajaj Pulsar, Triumph, KTM

    New Himalayan. Image – Shah Royal EnfieldThe new GST tax structure will have an impact on the above 350cc motorcycle segment that is currently dominated by brands such as Royal Enfield, Triumph, KTM and Harley-Davidson
    As new GST tax slabs come into effect from 22nd September 2025, motorcycles in the above 350 cc segment are about to get costlier. A recent reshuffle in GST percentage has thrown the two wheeler segment into disarray. There will be buyers across the 350cc will have to shell out a great deal more.
    As the new tax rates come into effect from 22nd Sept, motorcycles above the 350cc capacity will see an increase in GST to as much as 40%. This will relate to a substantial increase as currently the tax slab stands at 28% GST plus 3% Cess. The increase will relate to a massive 9%.
    New GST Structure for Above 350cc Motorcycles
    Demand across the premium motorcycle segment is comparatively lower than that of the smaller capacity bikes. However, a surge in higher capacity bikes have also seen some improvement in recent months with newer offerings entering the fray. For example, Royal Enfield’s lineup that consists of a range of bikes in both these segments will see models such as the Hunter, Classic, Meteor and Bullet that contributed to nearly 87% of total sales in August 2025 get more affordable post September 22.
    However, its larger bikes, among which are the Himalayan 450cc, Guerrilla 450cc, Scram 440cc, and the RE 650cc Twins, will now face a 40% GST tax, up from 28%. The same will hold true for larger models in the KTM and Triumph portfolio which will see a significant price hike. This discrepancy in GST structure may significantly impact demand for premium and performance-oriented motorcycles.
    Price estimate of Motorcycles Above 350cc Post New GST
    For instance, the Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z could see an increase of around Rs 13,100, while premium bikes like the KTM 390 Duke and Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 could become dearer by over Rs 20,000. Similarly, Triumph’s Speed 400, Scrambler 400X, and Thruxton 400 may see hikes between Rs 17,000 and Rs 18,800. Even the Himalayan 450 will not be spared, with an increase of nearly Rs 20,500. This marks a significant shift for enthusiasts, as higher displacement motorcycles, often seen as aspirational buys, will now carry an even steeper price tag under the new GST regime.
    Appeal for Uniform GST Structure for Motorcycles
    Bajaj Auto and Royal Enfield has appealed to the GST Council to bring about a uniform rate of taxes across all segments. RE MD Siddhartha Lal and Bajaj Auto MD Rajiv Bajaj have pointed out the need for an even GST rate across the two-wheeler market. While lowering the tax structure for 350cc so heavily will have an adverse impact, not so much on local demand, but more particularly where exports are concerned.
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    2025 Yamaha R15 Updated with New Colours – Launch Price Rs 1.67 Lakh

    2025 Yamaha R15 UpdatedYamaha has refreshed its popular R15 lineup for 2025 with striking new colour options and graphic updates, further boosting the appeal of India’s best-selling entry-level supersport motorcycle. The R15 series — comprising the R15M, R15 Version 4, and R15S — now starts at Rs 1,67,830 (ex-showroom, Delhi).
    Updated Colours Across the Range
    The flagship R15M now comes finished in a refined Metallic Grey, lending it a premium and sophisticated look to go with its sporty styling. The R15 Version 4 gets two major updates — a bold Metallic Black introduced after strong customer demand, and a refreshed Racing Blue with new graphics.
    2025 Yamaha R15 Updated
    Making headlines is the addition of the Matte Pearl White shade, a globally popular colour for Yamaha’s R-Series, now introduced in India for the first time. Meanwhile, the R15S gets a new Matte Black finish with striking vermillion wheels, adding to its street-focused styling.
    Pricing – 2025 Yamaha R15 (All prices ex-showroom, Delhi)
    1. Yamaha R15S – Rs 1,67,8302. Yamaha R15 Version 4 – Rs 1,84,7703. Yamaha R15M – Rs 2,01,000
    2025 Yamaha R15 Updated
    Engine & Features
    Powering all three models is Yamaha’s advanced 155cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine with Variable Valve Actuation (VVA), paired with a Deltabox frame and DiASil cylinder. The package ensures segment-leading performance and razor-sharp handling.
    2025 Yamaha R15 Updated
    Key features include:
    – Traction Control System (TCS)– Assist & Slipper Clutch– Quick Shifter (select variants)– Upside-Down Front Forks– Linked-Type Monocross Suspension
    Yamaha R15 sales
    Over the last 12 months, Yamaha R15 sales have added up to 85,971 units, averaging 7,164 units per month. While the R15 continues to be one of the most popular performance motorcycles in its segment, volumes are no longer as high as they once were. Peaks like 11,449 units in October 2024 and 10,614 units in September 2024 highlight the strong festive season demand, but recent months have seen a decline, with sales dipping to just 4,380 units in June 2025 and 4,908 units in April 2025.
    This shows that while the R15 still enjoys consistent demand, overall sales momentum has slowed compared to earlier highs. The latest updates are timed perfectly with the festive season, aiming to sustain excitement and keep the R15 as the aspirational first choice for performance-focused riders. More