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India Today
19 hours ago
- Automotive
- India Today
Matter Aera 5000+ review, first ride: Say hello to India's first geared electric motorcycle
Ahmedabad isn't the first place that pops to mind when one thinks of an electric motorcycle revolution. But that all changed back in 2019, when a few enthusiastic individuals came together to create Matter. For those who may not have heard this name before, Matter is an Indian electric mobility startup headquartered in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Matter isn't just assembling EVs, it's building them from the ground up. The company designs and manufactures its motors, battery packs, software systems, and vehicle platforms in-house. Unlike many EV brands that rely on white-labeled imports, Matter has focused on indigenous innovation, with an emphasis on performance, technology, and rider engagement. Its first product, the Aera 5000+, is India's first geared electric motorcycle, aiming to provide a more traditional riding experience. To answer whether Matter succeeded in this quest, we were recently invited to their home base, to visit the production facility, hit a go-kart track and ride it in the the point of the gears?The Aera 5000+ is India's first geared electric motorcycle, and not in a gimmicky way. This is a ground-up motorcycle designed by a homegrown startup that's building its own powertrains, software stack, and even batteries in-house. There is a clear emphasis on controlling the entire production system from the ground up, allowing for more factors to be monitored and adjusted as needed. Sure, the facility isn't the most cutting-edge, but it can be one day, which is good enough for me. And from the moment you see the Aera in person, it doesn't scream 'eco-commuter.' It looks like a modern 200cc street-naked which has a muscular tank, sharp panels, LED lighting, and a distinct DRL signature. It's an EV that isn't apologising for being one. And that's refreshing. After we toured the facility, it was time to head to the track, which is nearly 30km away from the production facility. Subscribe to Auto Today MagazineMust Watch
India Today
02-06-2025
- Automotive
- India Today
Toyota Fortuner and Legender mild-hybrid variants make India entry, starting at Rs 44.72 lakh
Toyota has introduced the mild-hybrid variants of its popular SUVs, the Fortuner and the Legender, in India. The former has been priced at Rs 44.72 lakh while the latter retails at Rs 50.09 lakh (both ex-showroom). Badged as Neo Hybrid, bookings for these variants are now open, with deliveries expected to begin in the third week of Legender Neo Hybrid: PerformanceThe Neo Hybrid variants of the Fortuner and Legender are based on the Diesel 4X4 automatic variants of the SUVs, with a Rs 2 lakh premium over the respective models. The powertrain on offer is a 2.8-litre diesel engine that puts out 204bhp and 500Nm of torque, assisted by a 48V hybrid system including a belt-integrated starter generator and a lithium-ion battery. This system serves two purposes: it enables auto start-stop functionality to increase fuel efficiency and improves low-end acceleration while reducing sound. Fortuner, Legender Neo Hybrid: ChangesThe external design of the SUVs remains the same, except for the new Neo Drive badge, and so does the interior. What has changed is the feature list, as the Neo Hybrid variants adds a 360-degree camera for enhanced safety and Speaking on the introduction of the Fortuner & Legender Neo Drive 48V variants, Mr. Varinder Wadhwa, Vice President, Sales-Service, Used Car Business, said, 'As the SUV market in India grows steadily, customers are seeking advanced features and differentiated styling, both the Fortuner and Legender rise to meet these expectations with their bold design, powerful performance and comprehensive features, catering seamlessly to the needs of diverse users. Now, the introduction of the new Neo Drive 48V grade in both models marks yet another milestone in our journey. As segment first, it underscores our commitment to delivering ever-better cars that align with evolving customer lifestyles, while also reinforcing Toyota's multi-pathway approach toward carbon neutrality. Through practical, future-ready mobility solutions, we strive to enhance customer value and contribute meaningfully to a more sustainable tomorrow.'Subscribe to Auto Today MagazineMust Watch
India Today
14-05-2025
- Automotive
- India Today
Not heard of a Grand Vitara 7-seater internally, says Maruti
The country's largest carmaker, Maruti Suzuki India, recently announced that it will launch two new SUVs in FY26. While one will be an electric vehicle (EV), the e Vitara, the other will be an internal combustion engine (ICE) have been speculations about the ICE model being the seven-seater version of the popular Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara. However, it could be otherwise, going by a recent statement from a top Maruti asked if the seven-seater Grand Vitara will qualify as a new SUV or a variant, during Maruti's Q4 FY25 earnings conference call, the company's Corporate Affairs Executive Officer Rahul Bharti said: "We keep hearing about such concepts and models about ourselves from the magazines and from analysts." "So, let's wait till the time comes. I have not heard of a Grand Vitara seven-seater internally at least," he upcoming ICE model will be Maruti's fifth SUV after the Fronx, Brezza, Jimny and Grand Vitara. Although the company has a strong SUV portfolio, another model will only help the company in enhancing its share in the ever-growing SUV burgeoning SUV segment expanded from 50.49% of the total passenger vehicle (PV) market in FY24 to 54.34% in FY25. With more buyers opting for SUVs, the carmakers are planning to further bolster their SUV line-up this present, all Maruti SUVs are five-seaters. However, the company has been testing a seven-seater SUV, which has been spied on multiple occasions. This SUV could be based on the Grand Vitara's Heartect the new ICE SUV enters the market, Maruti will start sales of the e Vitara. According to the company, the electric SUV will be on Indian roads before the end of September a couple of battery options, 49kWh and 61kWh, the e Vitara is claimed to have a range of over 500km on a single full to Auto Today MagazineMust Watch
India Today
13-05-2025
- Automotive
- India Today
Mahindra trims down Thar lineup, convertible variants discontinued
Mahindra and Mahindra has streamlined its popular Thar SUV range in India, discontinuing a total of eight variants, including all convertible top models. With this update, the Thar portfolio now comprises just nine variants, all of which are exclusively offered with a hard discontinued models include the AX(O) and LX convertible top trims, along with the AX 4WD and Earth Edition variants. This strategic move marks a clear shift in Mahindra's approach, possibly to simplify the lineup ahead of the anticipated Thar facelift, likely scheduled for launch in updated variant lineup now starts with the AX variant, which is available solely with a 1.5-litre diesel engine, and goes up to the LX trim with the larger 2.2-litre diesel engine, producing 130bhp. The price range remains unchanged, starting at Rs 11.50 lakh and going up to Rs 17.62 lakh (ex-showroom). Meanwhile, Mahindra continues to receive a strong response for the recently introduced Thar Roxx edition, priced from Rs 12.99 lakh (ex-showroom). This special edition brings distinct styling elements while retaining the off-road capabilities the Thar is known ahead, Mahindra is gearing up to launch the facelifted Thar (codename: W515) which will likely come in 2026, and is expected to feature refreshed LED headlamps with DRLs, a new front grille, larger alloy wheels, and updated interiors including an enhanced infotainment system and new upholstery. While official specifications remain under wraps, the upcoming facelift is likely to further bolster the Thar's appeal in India's lifestyle SUV now, buyers have fewer Thar variants to choose from, but with cleaner options and future-ready upgrades on the horizon, Mahindra seems poised to maintain the Thar's dominance in the rugged off-roader Mahindra Thar lineup—which includes the three-door Mahindra Thar and the recently launched five-door Mahindra Thar Roxx—is experiencing strong market demand, crossing the 10,000-unit monthly sales milestone for the first time in April per Mahindra's data, the Thar brand recorded a total of 10,703 units sold in April 2025. Diesel-powered variants dominated the sales with 10,040 units, while petrol versions accounted for just 663 Thar is offered with three engine choices: a 1.5-litre D117 CRDe diesel producing 118PS and 300Nm, a 2.2-litre mHawk 130 CRDe diesel generating 132PS and 300Nm, and a 2.0-litre mStallion 150 TGDi petrol delivering 152PS and 320Nm. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque converter automatic. Both the 2.2-litre diesel and 2.0-litre petrol engines are available with RWD and 4WD configurations, whereas the 1.5-litre diesel is offered only with RWD. Subscribe to Auto Today MagazineMust Watch
India Today
13-05-2025
- Automotive
- India Today
Tata Altroz facelift in pics: A new look with upgraded features
Tata Motors has unveiled the 2025 Tata Altroz facelift, showcasing a redesign and a host of premium features ahead of its launch on May 22, 2025. With a new design, cutting-edge technology, and best-in-class safety features, the updated Altroz is set to reinforce its presence in India's fiercely competitive hatchback segment, taking on contenders like the Maruti Suzuki Baleno and Hyundai i20. advertisementThough the company hasn't revealed much about Altroz's powertrain options, the Altroz will likely retain its versatile powertrain lineup, including a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol (88bhp, 115Nm), a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol (118bhp, 170Nm) in the Racer edition, a 1.5-litre diesel (89bhp, 200Nm), and a 1.2-litre CNG option with twin-cylinder technology. The 2025 Altroz features a refreshed exterior design with luminate LED headlamps, and a redesigned 3D front grille. The facelifted Altroz offers new drag-cut alloy wheels. advertisement At the back, the sleek T-shaped LED tail lamps are linked by a full-width LED light bar, adding a modern and sophisticated touch to the car's design. The 2025 Altroz offers a voice-assisted sunroof and 90-degree opening doors, enhancing both convenience and accessibility for passengers. A standout feature is the segment-first flush-type door handles on the front doors, enhancing the car's appeal. The dashboard features 10.25-inch infotainment and 10.2-inch digital cluster with wireless connectivity. The new Altroz offers an illuminated two-spoke steering wheel. Safety features include six airbags, a 360-degree camera, ISOFIX child-seat anchors, and possibly Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) like lane departure to Auto Today MagazineMust Watch
