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      June 2024 Week 2 Auto News Roundup – Yamaha, Suzuki, KTM, Hyundai, Skoda, Honda, Tata, Land Rover

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      2024 Tata Punch EV crash tested by Bharat NCAPNew variant launches and glimpses of upcoming products were primary highlights in the 2nd week of June 2024No big launches were scheduled in the past week. Test mule sightings continued as usual and some OEMs unveiled their upcoming products. Here’s a quick review of all the important developments from 9th June to 15th June.2024 Yamaha Fascino S2024 Yamaha Fascino S launchedKey updates for 2024 Yamaha Fascino S include three colour options and some new features. The updated scooter is available at a starting price of Rs 94,000. Users can now access the ‘Answer Back’ function to easily locate their scooter.Suzuki Thailand PlantSuzuki to close Thailand plant – Import from IndiaAs part of its plans to optimize its global production sites, Suzuki will be closing its Thailand production facility by the end of 2025. However, Suzuki will continue to have a presence in the country. It will be managed via CBU units, imported from Japan, India and ASEAN countries.2024 KTM 790 AdventureKTM to launch its big bikes in IndiaEnthusiasts in India will soon be able to ride some of the 500cc+ KTM bikes. Possibilities include the KTM 790 Duke, 990 Duke, 790 Adventure and 890 Adventure. KTM is likely to open exclusive showrooms for its big bikes. Husqvarna big bikes such as Svartpilen 801 and Norden 901 can also be introduced in India.Hyundai Inster EV FasciaHyundai Inster EV teasedWith entry-level electric cars like Punch EV registering strong sales, Hyundai is looking to target this space. A recent teaser reveals the Hyundai Inster EV that is based on Hyundai Casper. Inster has a range of 355 km, as per WLTP standards. Other details are yet to be revealed.Skoda Kushaq Onyx Automatic FeaturesSkoda launches Kushaq Onyx AutomaticPriced at Rs 13.49 lakh, Onyx 1.0 TSI AT is the most affordable automatic variant of Skoda Kushaq. Earlier, the automatic option was offered with Ambition 1.0 TSI that was priced at Rs 15.84 lakh. Onyx AT is effectively Rs 2.35 lakh cheaper. Along with the automatic gearbox, Onyx trim also comes with paddle shifters.Honda CRF 300 ADV Showcased In IndiaHonda showcases CRF 300 ADVWith the ADV segment gaining popularity in India, Honda has plans to introduce some new products in this space. The ADV bikes spotted recently in India include the Honda Sahara 300, CRF300L and CRF300L Rally. However, there is currently no official confirmation from Honda regarding the launch of these bikes in India.2024 Tata Punch EV crash tested by Bharat NCAPBharat NCAP 5-star rating for Nexon EV, Punch EVSimilar to their ICE counterparts, Nexon EV and Punch EV have received 5-star safety rating in Bharat NCAP crash tests. Both Nexon EV and Punch EV are equipped with a comprehensive range of safety features. Bharat NCAP will be revealing crash test ratings of various other cars in the coming weeks. Nissan Magnite was recently spotted at a testing site.2024 BMW R 1300 GS2024 BMW R 1300 GS launched at Rs 20.95 lakhBMW Motorrad has introduced the new R 1300 GS ADV bike in India. It will take on rivals such as Ducati Multistrada V4 and Honda Africa Twin. Three variants are on offer – Style Triple Black, Style GS Trophy and 719 Tramuntana. The bike comes to India via the CBU route.Future JLR EVs to be built on China’s Chery platformJLR EVs to get Chery Exeed platformFor its upcoming EVs, JLR will be sourcing electric powertrains from China-based Chery Exeed. Most other Western legacy carmakers have been following a similar strategy of sourcing EV platforms from Chinese OEMs. The benefits come in the form of advanced tech, customization options and cost savings.New Fiat Grande Panda Sub 4m SUVFiat Grande Panda sub-4-meter SUV debutsFor international markets, Fiat has unveiled the new Grande Panda SUV. It has a retro-inspired crossover design and will be available with electric and hybrid powertrain options. The platform is borrowed from the Citroen C3/e-C3. More

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      China’s Chery Exeed Platforms to Power Future Jaguar Land Rover Electric Cars

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      Future JLR EVs to be built on China’s Chery platformJLR is following other Western legacy car manufacturers to source platforms for their next-gen vehicles from Chinese OEMsYou must have seen Land Rover’s official teasers of the new all-electric Range Rover testing in extreme conditions. The company claims it will be the quietest Range Rover ever made, owing to the obvious advantages of an electric powertrain. Now, it is revealed that, JLR’s (Jaguar Land Rover) future EVs will be based on platforms sourced from Chinese carmaker Chery.Jaguar Land Rover And Chery – The long-standing partnershipIt is a known fact that JLR and Chery have a long and fruitful partnership, mainly in the Chinese market. Both brands entered a partnership in 2012 and have been co-producing vehicles. The two companies even share a car manufacturing facility in China that has been manufacturing cars from 2014.Super Hybrid Platform By Chery To Be Used On Jaguar Land Rover CarsIn a major move by Tata Motors owned JLR and Chery Group owned Exeed, the joint venture is now extended where JLR will use two of the potent platforms developed by Exeed for their future vehicles. As confirmed by Yin Tongyao, president of Chery Group, JLR will be their new platform recipient. JLR will source Exeed’s M3X and E0X platforms.As per the agreement, JLR will be able to freely use both platforms on their next-gen vehicles that could be launched under Range Rover, Discovery and Defender umbrellas. M3X is locally also called T2X and it supports both traditional ICE powertrains and even PHEV (Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle) powertrains.Electric Range RoverWhat are these platforms capable of?This very platform, touted as ‘Super Hybrid’ in a few Chery cars like Exeed RX PHEV, Chery Fulwin T9 and others, is capable of achieving nine operating modes, 11 gear combinations, over 1000-km range, and a thermal efficiency of 44.5%. All this, with the help of an IC engine and two electric motors paired to the world’s first gearbox to adopt two electric motors.The other modular platform that JLR is sourcing from Chery Group owned Exeed is the E0X, which was co-developed with Huawei. This platform is suitable for both EVs and EREV (Extended Range EVs) hybrids and incorporates an 800V architecture. With 12 kWh/100 km consumption rating, air suspension, advanced autonomous driving and attributes, it is fit for high-end vehicles with range extenders.Currently, E0X platform underpins Chery Group vehicles like Exlantix ES, Exlantix ET, Luxeed S7, and Luxeed R7. These platforms could fill in the blanks where JLR is currently lacking, which is new energy vehicles.JLR’s move to source Chinese platforms might prove shocking to many. However, it is a more widespread phenomenon than one might think. Auto giant, Volkswagen, has announced XPeng’s platform. Audi is sourcing SAIC’s platform. Brands like Lotus, Smart and Volvo are using Geely’s platforms and Renault is sourcing Chinese technology for its upcoming Twingo too.Source More

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      2024 Tata Punch EV Safety Rating – 5 Stars

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      2024 Tata Punch EV crash tested by Bharat NCAP2024 Tata Punch EV Safety Rating: BNCAP’s First Small Electric Car Safety Test – Driver SafetySafety ratings for the TATA PUNCH.EV have been announced by BNCAP today. Adult Occupant Protection scores 31.46 out of 32, nearly perfect. The Frontal Offset Deformable Barrier Test results in 15.71 out of 16, showing strong front-end collision resilience. Side Movable Deformable Barrier Test scores 15.74 out of 16, indicating excellent side-impact protection.Child Occupant Protection achieves 45.00 out of 49. With Child Restraint Systems in use, Dynamic score for the TATA PUNCH.EV is maxed at 24.00 out of 24. This measure reflects the vehicle’s stability and control during crash simulations. CRS Installation Score is perfect at 12.00 out of 12, ensuring child restraint systems are securely and effectively installed. Vehicle Assessment Score reaches 9.00 out of 13.2024 Tata Punch EV crash tested by Bharat NCAPTata Punch EV – Frontal crash protectionTested on the TATA PUNCH.EV EMP+ S LR variant, this small car weighs in at 1626 kg. Safety ratings apply to all listed variants for transparent assessment of protection across the range.Frontal crash protection features include standard driver and passenger airbags, with no rear airbags. Belt pretensioners and load-limiters are standard for the front seats. Knee airbags are unavailable, focusing protection on vital areas. Side crash protection is attained with the standard side head curtain airbags for all occupants. The vehicle also includes side chest airbags for front occupants, and no side pelvis airbags.2024 Tata Punch EV crash tested by Bharat NCAPTata Punch EV Child ProtectionChild protection in the TATA PUNCH.EV includes ISOFIX anchor points in the rear outboard seats. The passenger benefits from a manual airbag cut-off switch. Safety assist technologies bolster protection, with ESC meeting UN GTR No.8/UNECE R140 AIS-133 standards.2024 Tata Punch EV crash tested by Bharat NCAPPedestrian protection is standard, adhering to AIS-100 regulations. This technology minimizes injury risks in collisions with pedestrians. Seat belt reminders (SBR) comply with AIS-145, alerting occupants to buckle up. These reminders are standard for the driver, front passenger, and rear passengers, promoting consistent seat belt use.Safety Assist in Tata Punch EVAssessment in April 2024 confirms the applicability of safety ratings across various TATA PUNCH.EV variants. These include SMT LR ACFC, SMT + LR ACFC, ADV LR ACFC, ADV S LR ACFC, and more. Each variant ensures standardised safety assist technologies.[embedded content]Safety Assist Technologies (SAT) Standard fitments include ESC, a Side Head Protection System, Pedestrian Protection System, and Seat Belt Reminders. Technological advancements in vehicle safety are a standard requirement today. Compliance with regulatory standards like AIS-197 and UNECE R140 help with reliability. Certified and standardized safety features in our cars are the need of the hour.Also Read – Tata Nexon EV Scores 5 Star Safety Rating In Bharat NCAP 2024 More

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      2024 Tata Nexon EV Safety Rating – 5 Stars

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      Tata Nexon EV crash test – Bharat NCAP 20242024 Tata Nexon EV Safety Rating: BNCAP’s First Compact Electric Car Safety Test – Driver SafetyWhat’s the 2024 Tata Nexon EV Safety Rating? The compact car in the first EV in the segment to be tested by BNCAP. Gross vehicle weight stands at 1816 kg. Driver safety in the TATA Nexon EV includes multiple airbags.Frontal airbag, side head curtain airbag, and side chest airbag come standard. Belt pretensioners and load-limiters also enhance driver protection. Knee and side pelvis airbags are not available as si true with the segment.Tata Nexon EV crash test – Bharat NCAP 2024Tata Nexon EV Passenger SafetyPassenger safety mirrors driver protection with similar standard features. Frontal, side head curtain, and side chest airbags. Belt pretensioners and load-limiters are standard for passengers too. The absence of knee and side pelvis airbags aligns with the design strategy prioritising critical safety areas.Rear seat safety emphasises child protection. Standard ISOFIX anchor points support outboard seats, facilitating secure child seat installation. Rear passengers benefit from side head curtain airbags with focus on primary crash protection.Tata Nexon EV crash test – Bharat NCAP 2024Safety Assist in Tata Nexon EVSafety assist technologies include Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) . This caters to vehicle stability during critical manoeuvres. Pedestrian protection systems and seat belt reminders for all seats further demonstrate a comprehensive approach.[embedded content]TATA Nexon EV’s ratings applicability specifies the variants it’s applicable to. The Long Range (LR) including CRE, EMP and EMP DK, and FEA and FEA DK. Medium Range (MR) variants include CRE, EMP, FEA for transparent safety evaluations.Why Safety Matters in EVs – Tata Nexon EV Safety RatingWhy is safety a priority cars/EVs? The importance of crash protection in vehicles manifests itself as a safety badge. Incorporating features like airbags, ESC, and pedestrian protection meets laid out crash test standards. Indian government says, the future is electric.Tata Nexon EV crash test – Bharat NCAP 2024Evaluating the safety equipment a car reveals its strengths and areas for improvement. Understanding the impact of standard safety assist technologies is crucial. ESC enhances vehicle control, while seat belt reminders ensure occupants’ safety. These technologies reflect the integration of essential safety features, aiming to reduce accident risks and impact, and enhance occupant protection.Hence, integrating key safety features and assist technologies is a reliable protection approach. And needs to match evolving standards of vehicle safety expected from electric vehicles. Tata Nexon EV BNCAP 5 star rating entails a score of Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) 29.86/ 32 and Child Occupant Protection (COP) 44.95/ 49. Adult Occupant Protection scores are rated as follows – Frontal Offset Deformable Barrier Test: 14.26 out of 16.00; Side Movable Deformable Barrier Test:15.60 out of 16.00. Child Occupation Protection is rated at 44.95/ 49.00.Also Read – Tata Punch EV Scores 5 Star Safety Rating In Bharat NCAP 2024 More

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      Tata Curvv, Harrier EV, Sierra EV, Avinya – Launch Timelines Officially Revealed

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      2025 Tata Sierra RenderAiming for 4-6% jump in market share, Tata Motors will introduce new models across both ICE and EV segmentsTata Motors has drawn up aggressive plans to boost its market share over the next 2-3 years. From the existing market share of around 14%, the goal is to achieve an increase of around 400-600 basis points. Tata’s upcoming new car launches will play a key role in achieving that target.Tata new launches – Curvv and Harrier EVSome of the upcoming new Tata cars will be available in both ICE and EV formats. A relevant example is Curvv, which is expected to debut during FY24-25. Curvv EV and diesel variants will be launched first. Petrol option is expected to be added at a later stage.Tata Curvv and Nexon CNG Spied Testing TigetherICE Curvv will challenge popular compact SUVs such as Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, Honda Elevate, Skoda Kushaq and Volkswagen Taigun. Curvv EV will take on the upcoming Creta EV, Maruti eVX and Toyota’s rebadged version of eVX.In the mid-size SUV segment, Tata is working on the petrol and EV versions of Harrier. Both these models are expected to be launched by the financial year ending March 31, 2025. Harrier is currently offered with only a 2.0-litre diesel engine. It generates 170 PS and 350 Nm. Transmission choices include 6-speed MT and 6-speed AT.Tata Harrier EV spied in PuneTata Harrier EV will be underpinned by the new Acti-EV architecture. This is already in use with Punch EV. Harrier EV is expected to get a 60-kWh battery pack, with a range of around 500 km. It will have a dual-motor setup and AWD system. Harrier EV will primarily rival the upcoming electric version of Mahindra XUV700. The latter will go on sale as XUV.e8.Tata Sierra design patent leaksSierra EV and Avinya models expected in FY26Similar to Harrier EV, the upcoming Sierra EV is expected to get a dual-motor setup and an electric all-wheel drive system. Tata Motors has already filed a design patent for Sierra EV. A number of design features have been borrowed from the original ICE Sierra that was in production from 1991 to 2003. At a later stage, Tata could introduce an ICE powertrain for the new Sierra.Tata’s flagship EV brand will be Avinya. It will spawn multiple new electric cars, underpinned by JLR’s EMA platform. With Avinya, Tata will be able to make its entry into the premium EV segment. Tata Avinya will have a range of more than 300 km. It will be equipped with a comprehensive range of premium features.Tata Safari EV Testing ContinuesEV-exclusive showrooms, charging network expansionTata’s upcoming electric cars will be one of the key growth drivers. To improve customer experience, Tata is focusing on expanding its EV-exclusive showrooms and charging network. More than 50 EV-exclusive showrooms will be launched over the next couple of years. Tata currently operates two EV-exclusive showrooms. Tata’s charging network is also set to witness a major leap. From the current 10,000, the number will be increased to 1 lakh charging stations by FY30. More

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      New Hyundai Inster EV Teased With 355km Range – Punch EV Rival?

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      Hyundai Inster EV TeasedHyundai Inster EV is not confirmed for India, but similar powertrain might make its way to upcoming Exter EV and rival Punch EVElectric cars are currently gaining popularity in India and is among the priorities for most car manufacturers. Hyundai seems to be diving in at the idea with Creta EV, speculated to be launched in early 2025. What about the A-segment where faster adoption of E-mobility makes more sense? Recently teased Hyundai Inster gives us an idea.Hyundai Inster EV Teased – Design and AppealEver wondered what an electric version of Hyundai Casper would look like? Hyundai just gave us the answer in the form of Inster EV. If you’re wondering if Exter means outdoorsy adventure lifestyle and Inster means something to be driven inside the city, that would be wrong. In fact, Inster name has nothing to do with Exter at all.Hyundai Inster EV NameAccording to Hyundai, Inster name is inspired by the words “intimate” and “innovative”, combined with Casper name, the vehicle on which it is based. As of now, Casper is Korea only and Hyundai is tight-lipped about the intended markets for the recently teased Inster EV.Hyundai Inster EV Casper’s SilhouetteCasper was first introduced in 2021 and the upcoming Inster will carry a similar silhouette as seen in Hyundai’s teaser image. Inster will get a unique fascia, but is reminiscent of Casper. We can see a similar bonnet, windscreen and overall side silhouette. Charging port is at the front, but not centred, like in Punch EV.Hyundai Inster EV Vs CasperInster boasts new pixel-style quad-element circular LED DRLs and pixel-style 7-element LED turn indicators too. Tail lights get a pixel effect as well. Alloy wheels of Hyundai Inster look unique, though. Just like Casper, Inster will come equipped with crossover bits like roof rails, body cladding and reasonably high ground clearance.According to Hyundai, INSTER is poised to set new standards in driving range and technology, and safety features. Speaking of range, company has revealed that Inster will do 355 km (WLTP) on a single charge. Battery and motor specs were not disclosed.Hyundai Inster EV FasciaShould Hyundai launch it in India?India has been embracing e-mobility solutions at a decent pace. More companies have been exploring EVs today, than they ever did, in India. Hyundai is one of the companies selling electric cars in India. Soon, the company will explore electric mobility solutions in the mainstream segment.Currently, Hyundai Kona price starts from Rs. 23.84 lakh (Ex-sh) and Creta EV, when launched, is likely to start upwards of Rs. 16 lakh (Ex-sh). Lion’s share of India’s electric car sales is from smaller electric vehicles like Punch EV, Tiago EV and MG’s Comet EV. So, targeting this space is paramount for any OEMs to push more volumes.Hyundai Inster EV Charging PortEven though the South Korean brand has not confirmed Inster for India (yet), it makes perfect sense. Inster’s crossover design looks miles better than Exter launched in India and it would naturally target Punch EV, which is currently the hottest EV in mainstream segment. Or, the powertrain from this Inster EV will be similar to what we will get in Exter EV in the future. Or Kia Clavis EV or Syros EV.Hyundai Inster EV LED DRLs More

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      Tata EV Discounts June 2024 Up To Rs 1.35 Lakh – Punch EV, Nexon EV, Tiago EV

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      Image – JayarajThe test mule sighting frequency of Curvv EV, Harrier EV and Safari EV are increasing, suggesting nearing launch, probably in 2025One of India’s largest car manufacturers, Tata Motors, is only verge of launching Curvv compact SUV and introduce electric versions of Harrier and Safari. The company just launched its new hot hatchback, Altroz Racer, too. Now, Tata Motors is offering attractive offers to their electric portfolio across hatchbacks, sedans and SUVs. Let’s take a look.Tata EV Discounts June 2024 – Which car gets the most discount?The benefits and discounts Tata Motors is offering to buyers are not uniform across their portfolio. Some popular and hot-selling vehicles get the least discounts, while the slower-selling offerings get more discounts to clear stocks. In June 2024, Tata is offering the highest discounts on MY23 Nexon EV of up to Rs. 1.35 lakh.2024 Tata Tiago EV LaunchedTiago EVWhere Tiago EV discounts are concerned, all MY23 variants get a flat Rs 95,000 benefits. For MY24 Tiago EV MR variants, benefits are up to Rs 60,000 and with Tiago EV LR variants, it is Rs 75,000. Official Ex-sh prices for Tiago EV range between Rs 7.99 lakh and Rs 11.89 lakh.Tata Punch.ev On-road Prices ComparedPunch EVNext in line for the discounts is Tata’s current (electric) rockstar, Punch EV. However, ICE version of Tata Punch does not get any benefits as we covered in a recent post. All the attractive discounts are only with Punch EV. Sure, Rs 10,000 worth of benefits is not exactly attractive and it is the lowest discount among Tata Motors EVs listed on this list.New Tata Nexon EVNexon / Nexon EVAcross this list, Tata Nexon E SUV registered the highest discounts this month (June 2024). The MY23 Nexon EV gets discounts of up to Rs 1.35 lakh. However, the newer MY24 Nexon EV units get only Rs 85,000 worth of discounts. Interestingly, 2024 Nexon EV Creative+ MR variant doesn’t get this Rs 85,000 discount.Along with Harrier EV, Tata is also planning the launch of Curvv EV and Safari EVUpcoming EVs from TataThe company is gearing up to introduce their first-ever compact SUV in the near future in the form of Curvv. Tata will launch both ICE and EV versions of Curvv. Speculations suggest Curvv EV to launch first, alongside Curvv Diesel. While Curvv Petrol will launch later, featuring a new 125 PS and 175 Nm tune based on Nexon’s 1.2L 3-cyl turbo petrol motor.Harrier and Safari are getting EV versions as well, featuring (larger than Nexon) battery pack that could promise 500 km of range from a single charge. Single-motor and dual-motor AWD layouts will be offered too. Testing for the same has commenced and sighting frequency has been increased as well. More

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      June 2024 Week 1 Auto News Roundup – Tata, Kia, Mercedes, BGauss, MG, Honda, Maruti, Bajaj, Force

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      New Tata Altroz RacerNew models and variant updates were among the key happenings in the auto industry in the first week of June 2024One of the biggest events this week was the launch of Tata Altroz Racer. Similar variant updates were introduced by other OEMs as well. Here’s a quick look at some of the recent developments in the auto industry.2024 Tata Altroz / Altroz Racer launchedTata has updated the standard Altroz model with new features. Some new variants have also been introduced. Tata has also launched the Altroz Racer model that gets sporty styling and Nexon’s 120 hp turbo petrol engine. Altroz Racer is available in three variants and three colour options. A comprehensive range of features are available with Altroz Racer.Tata Altroz Racer Vs Rivals – FeaturesKia Carens achieves 1.5 lakh sales milestoneWithin a span of 27 months, Kia Carens has registered cumulative sales of 1.5 lakh units. More than 50% of the sales is from the mid-spec and top-spec variants of Carens. In 2025, Kia will be getting its EV version.Mercedes launches new C 300 AMG LineIn addition to the new C300 AMG, Mercedes has also introduced updated versions of the C200, C220d and GLC. Mercedes-Benz C300 AMG Line is equipped with a 2.0 litre, 4-cylinder, turbo-petrol engine. It works in combination with a 48V mild hybrid system. Output is 258 hp and 400 Nm. Top speed is 200 km/H and 0 to 100 km/H can be achieved in 6 seconds.New Mercedes C 300 AMG LineBGauss unveils RUV350 electric scooterAs part of its portfolio expansion, BGauss has unveiled the RUV350 electric scooter. The global debut is scheduled for 25th June, 2024. BGauss RUV350 is being positioned as the first RUV in India. Some key USPs include a sporty design, hi-tech features and robust performance.BGauss RUV350 Electric Scooter RevealedMG Gloster Desert Storm, Snow Storm launchedMG Motor has added more options for users with the launch of Gloster Desert Storm and Snow Storm. The focus is primarily on enhancing the visual appeal of the Gloster SUV. MG Gloster Desert Storm and Snow Storm models have been launched at a starting price of Rs 41.04 lakh.Honda CNG option for City, Amaze and ElevateIn a surprising move, Honda dealers are offering CNG option for City, Amaze and Elevate. Honda does not manufacture factory-fitted CNG cars. But users can choose the CNG option at the dealer level. The CNG kit costs Rs 78,000 and comes with a one-year warranty.Jeep Meridian X LaunchedJeep Meridian X Special Edition re-launchedBased on market demand, Jeep has relaunched the Meridian X Special Edition. Users will benefit from a range of visual updates and new features. The Jeep Meridian X Special Edition is being offered at a starting price of Rs 34.27 lakh.Maruti launches Dream Series – Most affordable cars in IndiaTo boost sales, Maruti has launched its Dream Series Limited Edition collection. It includes the Alto K10, S-Presso and Celerio. All three cars are available at Rs 4.99 lakh, as part of the offer scheme. The prices will be valid throughout June.Maruti Dream Series LaunchChetak new Base variant launchedBajaj has launched the most affordable variant of Chetak at Rs 96,000. It will take on rivals such as Ola S1 Air and Ather 450S. The new model is named Chetak 2901. It is available in 5 colour options. ARAI certified range is 123 km.Force Gurkha 4×2 incomingForce Motors has homologated the 4×2 version of its Gurkha SUV. 4×2 Gurkha will take on the Mahindra Thar RWD variant. The 4×2 option will be available with only the 3-door Gurkha. Based on market feedback, even the 5-door Gurkha could get 4×2 option at a later stage.XUV700 base MX variant to get automatic optionMahindra will soon introduce an automatic option with the base MX variant of XUV700. It will be available with the 5-seater, petrol variants only. As of now, rivals like MG Hector and Tata Harrier do not have automatic options with the respective base variants. More