Hyundai plans launch of 26 new models to strengthen its position in the Indian market

Maruti Suzuki is preparing to release an updated version of its popular hatchback model. The updated Maruti Baleno is expected to appear early next month. Test models have appeared on the streets multiple times before the official launch, suggesting some changes to the car.

The updated Baleno is expected to be released in the first week of September, specifically on September 5th. Although not very significant changes are expected in the design and interior of the car, a major change concerning the transmission is possible. According to reports, Maruti may do something that only Tata has managed so far.

There is a possibility that the updated Maruti Suzuki Baleno will offer an automatic gearbox combined with CNG. If this happens, Maruti Suzuki will become the second manufacturer to offer this option, alongside Tata. Below is an overview of what new features might appear in this model.

The updated Baleno will feature a redesigned front fascia, equipped with an updated bumper and grille design. Maruti may install a connected LED strip or a chrome structure that divides the grille into two parts. The overall design of the car will remain the same, without any changes.

The new car may also be fitted with 16-inch alloy wheels, and there may be some minor modifications to the rear. The taillight design will remain unchanged. As for the cabin, the Maruti Suzuki Baleno Facelift might feature a new cabin theme. The company may also make changes to the dashboard to give the cabin a fresher look. Like the current Baleno, it will be equipped with HUD, a 360-degree camera, and other functions. Additionally, the updated version may include new features such as ventilated seats, an electric sunroof, a larger multimedia system, wireless phone charging, an improved sound system, and other options.

The car will be equipped with numerous safety systems, including parking sensors, a rear camera, ABS, EBD, ESP, hill-start assist, six airbags, and other safety features. The engine of the car will not change; it will have a 1.2-liter petrol engine that produces 90 hp and 113 Nm of torque. The car will be offered with a 5-speed manual and AMT gearbox.

According to the latest reports, the updated Maruti Suzuki Baleno may feature an automatic gearbox with CNG, which would be a significant step for Maruti. This is especially relevant for those who desire comfortable city driving combined with better fuel economy.

Mahindra has introduced its powerful SUV model—the Mahindra BE 6 Sporteq Edition. This version is the flagship product of the BE 6 lineup and features an updated dashboard design, a three-screen configuration, new connectivity features, and a refreshed interior.

The existing powertrain options are retained in this model. The Sporteq Edition will be priced higher than the standard BE 6. Currently, the vehicle starts from 18.90 lakh rupees, including export duties, and reaches 26.90 lakh rupees, including export duties.

The BE 6 is a coupe-style crossover, and Mahindra has not made changes to the overall design in the Sporteq Edition. The car is equipped with LED lighting, sharp body lines, 'flush' door handles, and 20-inch alloy wheels. The main difference lies in the application of the Sporteq emblem on the vehicle.

The most significant changes concern the interior. In the Sporteq Edition, the dual-screen system has been replaced by a triple-screen system, which includes three 12.3-inch screens. This configuration was previously seen in the XEV 9E and XEV 9S models. Furthermore, the dashboard has been completely redesigned.

The new dashboard offers improved access to USB Type-C ports and wireless charging support, as well as additional storage space. The interior is finished in a combination of black and taupe colors, and the upholstery has been updated. The BE 6 SportEQ offers a range of new connectivity features.

Mahindra has introduced six new TEQ technology packages that provide personalization, connectivity, and vehicle operation-based functions. Additionally, the SUV is equipped with a panoramic glass roof, a Harman Kardon audio system, ventilated front seats, dual-zone climate control, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, a 360-degree view camera, an ADAS system, and multiple driving modes.

The Mahindra BE 6 Sporteq uses the same electric powertrain as the current model. The vehicle comes with 59 kWh and 79 kWh batteries and features a rear-mounted electric motor. This car is capable of producing 286 hp and 380 Nm of torque. The claimed range with the larger battery is 682 kilometers. There have also been no changes to the charging options.

JSVW MG Motor plans to soon introduce a new product to the Indian market, which the company has been testing in the country for a long time. This is about the MG Hector Hawk, which could potentially be released at the end of this month. The company has the possibility to present this plug-in hybrid vehicle on August 26, 2026.

This car will be the first mass-market budget plug-in hybrid vehicle in the Indian market. Although the final name and technical specifications of the car have not yet been announced, reports suggest that the company may use the existing Hector branding. The car might appear as the Hector Hawk.

The new MG vehicle will combine the appeal of a rugged SUV with modern electrification solutions, offering fuel consumption comparable to a hatchback while maintaining an SUV appearance. MG presented the platform for this car last month. The future MG SUV will be based on the ADAPT platform.

The future MG SUV will be based on the Wuling Starlight 560, which is available on the global market. This will be the first vehicle from MG on the flexible ADAPT platform. This platform allows for the use of any type of powertrain—from EV and Strong Hybrid to Plug-in Hybrid and Range Extender.

Currently, the vehicle will be presented in a plug-in hybrid version. It may be equipped with a 1.5-liter gasoline engine connected to an electric motor and a 20.5 kWh battery pack. On the global market, the vehicle is capable of producing 197 hp and 230 Nm of torque. In fully electric mode, the vehicle offers a range of 125 kilometers, and when using both gasoline and electric modes, it can cover up to 1100 kilometers.

The MG Hector Hawk may be released at a price ranging from 20 to 27 lakh Indian rupees, including export duties. This vehicle will compete in the Indian market against both electric and traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. Its dimensions will be 4745 mm in length, 1850 mm in width, 1770 mm in height, and 2810 mm wheelbase. Because it will be longer than the Hector Plus, it may feature a three-row configuration, allowing for a seven-seater version.