Latest news with #VarinderWadhwa
India Today
02-06-2025
- Automotive
- India Today
Toyota records 22% YoY growth in May 2025, 30,864 units sold
Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) reported a robust 22% year-on-year sales growth in May 2025, selling 30,864 units compared to 25,273 units in May 2024. The company's performance included 29,280 domestic units and 1,584 export sales for the first two months of FY 2025–26 (April–May) reached 58,188 units, reflecting a 27% increase over the 45,767 units sold in the same period of FY 2024–25. Varinder Wadhwa, Vice President of Sales-Service-Used Car Business at TKM, attributed the growth to strong customer trust and a favourable market outlook. 'In May, we achieved a growth of 22%, a testament to the enduring trust and support of our valued customers,' Wadhwa said. 'With the onset of the monsoon and forecasts indicating a normal to above-normal season, we remain optimistic about improved market sentiment, particularly in rural and semi-urban regions.'advertisementTKM's SUV and MPV segments were the primary drivers of its May performance, with a combined 34% sales increase for April–May FY 2025–26 compared to the previous year. Models such as the Innova HyCross, Fortuner, and Urban Cruiser Hyryder have resonated strongly with Indian consumers, reflecting a growing preference for versatile and reliable mobility options. The company also celebrated a milestone with the Toyota Fortuner and Legender surpassing cumulative sales of 3 lakh units in India, solidifying their dominance in the premium SUV category. Enhancing its MPV portfolio, TKM launched the Innova HyCross Exclusive Edition in May, featuring 19 premium upgrades to its hybrid offering. The edition has received an enthusiastic market response, further strengthening TKM's position in the MPV segment. Other key models, including the Innova Crysta, Camry Hybrid, Hilux, Glanza, Rumion, and Urban Cruiser Taisor, continue to contribute to TKM's diverse lineup, with the Vellfire and LC 300 imported as Completely Built Units (CBUs).advertisementOperating from its Bidadi facilities in Karnataka, TKM boasts a total installed production capacity of 342,000 units across two plants. The first plant, established in 1997, produces the Innova HyCross, Innova Crysta, Fortuner, and Legender, with a capacity of 132,000 units. The second plant, operational since 2010, manufactures the Camry Hybrid, Urban Cruiser Hyryder, and Hilux, with a capacity of 210,000 units. This robust manufacturing base supports TKM's ability to meet both domestic and export emphasized TKM's strategic focus, stating, 'Backed by our vast product portfolio and innovative campaigns, we are well-positioned to maintain this growth trajectory.' The company's optimism is further supported by improving market conditions and its alignment with India's evolving preference for SUVs and a workforce of over 6,500 employees and a sprawling 432-acre manufacturing facility, TKM remains a key player in India's automotive landscape, backed by Toyota Motor Corporation's 89% equity stake and Kirloskar Systems Limited's 11% to Auto Today Magazine
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
Hindustan Times
02-06-2025
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
Toyota Fortuner with 48V hybrid assist launched at ₹44.72 lakh. Check details
The Toyota Fortuner Neo Drive 48V is priced at ₹ 44.72 lakh while the Legender Neo Drive 48V is priced at ₹ 50.09 lakh ₹44.72 lakh. Check details data-item-target-url=/auto/cars/ data-item-story-segment=Mass Vehicles> The Toyota Fortuner Neo Drive 48V is priced at ₹44.72 lakh while the Legender Neo Drive 48V is priced at ₹50.09 lakh. Check Offers The Toyota Fortuner Neo Drive 48V variants have been launched. Available in two variants- Fortuner Neo Drive 48V and Legender Neo Drive 48V, the prices are ₹ 44.72 lakh and ₹ 50.09 lakh. All the prices are ex-showroom. The new variants are equipped with an advanced 48‑Volt system, aimed at offering improved fuel efficiency, enhanced driving performance and greater comfort. Bookings for the Fortuner and Legender Neo Drive variants are open from June 02, 2025, with deliveries beginning from the 3rd Week of June. Varinder Wadhwa, Vice President, Sales-Service-Used Car Business, stated that as the SUV market in India grows steadily, customers are seeking advanced features and differentiated styling. '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," he added. Also Read : Innova and Fortuner fuel Toyota to grow 22 per cent in May 2025. Check details The Toyota Fortuner Neo Drive 48V gets powered by the same 2.8-litre, 4-cylinder turbo-diesel engine. However, the engine now gets paired with a 48-Volt system, featuring a belt-integrated starter generator and lithium-ion battery. The company claims that this hybrid assist delivers smoother low-end acceleration, quieter operation, and improved efficiency. Similar to one of the features of a hybrid electric system, the battery is charged during deceleration, efficiently regenerating braking energy which would otherwise be lost, whilst also adding additional braking performance. The new Smart Idle Start-Stop function further improves fuel efficiency and reduces emissions by switching off the engine when stationary. Additionally, it also comes with the Multi-Terrain Select system that adjusts throttle response, braking, and traction control to optimize performance across various terrains. Toyota Fortuner Neo Drive 48V: Design and features The Toyota Fortuner Neo Drive 48V arrives with no change to the design. It continues with the dual-tone colour scheme of white and black, sharper headlamp DRLs, different bumpers and a few more cosmetic tweaks compared to the regular Fortuner. It further gets 20 inch diamond cut alloy wheels. Also Read : Toyota Fortuner surpasses 3 lakh cumulative sales since 2009. Check details Meanwhile, in terms of features, apart from the additional features, the equipment list remains the same as before. It still offers dual-tone interiors, leather upholstery, ambient lighting, a digital screen for infotainment, and wireless charging, amongst features it boasts. Others in this class include ventilated front seats, 11 premium JBL speakers with a subwoofer and amplifier. Check out Upcoming Cars in India 2024, Best SUVs in India. First Published Date: 02 Jun 2025, 11:55 AM IST
NDTV
02-06-2025
- Automotive
- NDTV
Toyota Fortuner, Legender Get 48V Mild-Hybrid System: Price, Specs, Features
Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) today announced the introduction of the Fortuner and Legender in a new Neo Drive avatar. Equipped with an advanced 48-Volt system, the new Neo Drive Variants claim to offer improved fuel efficiency, enhanced driving performance, and a refined experience. The Toyota Fortuner and Legender Neo Drive get a 2.8-litre, 4-cylinder turbo-diesel engine now paired with a 48-Volt system, featuring a belt-integrated starter generator and lithium-ion battery. The brand claims that this hybrid assist delivers smoother low-end acceleration, quieter operation, and improved efficiency. Also Read: Volvo Suspends U.S. Car Production Amid Parts Shortage 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." Adding further, he also said- "Now, the introduction of the new Neo Drive 48V grade in both models marks yet another milestone in our journey. As a 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." The Fortuner and the Legender Neo Drive retain most of the exterior elements from the one on sale. The Toyota Legender gets striking dual-tone body colours, split LED headlamps, and a sleeker fascia. Both models feature dual-tone leather upholstery, soft-touch materials, and ergonomic seating for enhanced long-distance comfort. The Toyota Fortuner and Legender offer a host of safety features that include: seven airbags, ABS, Vehicle Stability Control with Brake Assist, WIL Concept Seats, Hill Assist Control, TRC (Traction Control System), Child Restraint System, Front Row Seatbelts with Pre-Tensioner + Force Limiter, Speed Auto Lock with Emergency Unlock amongst host of other essentials. The Toyota Fortuner Neo Drive 48V is available at Rs 44.72 lakh (ex-showroom), whereas the Legender Neo Drive 48V is priced at Rs 50.09 lakh (ex-showroom).
Economic Times
01-06-2025
- Automotive
- Economic Times
Passenger vehicle sales remain flat in May amid sluggish demand
Agencies Representational Image Sales of cars, sedans and utility vehicles remained largely flat last month, albeit on a high base, amid sluggish consumer demand in the local market. As per initial industry estimates about 352,000 passenger vehicles were sold last month, which is an increase of about 0.1% over the same period last fiscal. Automakers in India mostly report wholesale dispatches from factories to dealerships and not retail sales to customers. Retail sales are estimated to have dropped by 0.8% in this period, industry insiders said. A senior industry executive who did not wish to be identified said, 'There is pressure in the market. But we also have to remember that the base is now very high. India is one of the very high markets in the world which is selling more than 4 million passenger vehicles annually. So even if the growth is modest, and is likely to remain so for some time, volumes are still good.' Demand in the local market continued to be driven by SUVs last month, with companies like Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) and Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) clocking robust sales numbers. Market leaders Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai did not release sales numbers for May Sunday. Homegrown auto major Mahindra, in fact, continued to maintain its lead over rival Tata Motors in May, powered by demand for its range of utility vehicles. Mahindra sold 52,431 units last month, which is an increase of 21% over 43,218 units sold in May 2024. At Tata Motors, sales fell by 11% to 41,557 units in the same period. Nalinikanth Gollagunta, CEO, Automotive Division, M&M, said, 'Thanks to continued demand for our products, we were able to deliver industry-leading growth across our ICE and BEV portfolio.' Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) reported an increase of 22% to sell 29,280 units last month. Varinder Wadhwa, Vice President, Sales-Service-Used Car Business, said, in line with overall market trends, the company's MPV and SUV segments continued to be the primary growth drivers—reflecting a clear shift in customer preference towards versatile mobility options.'With the onset of the monsoon and forecasts indicating a normal to above-normal season, we remain optimistic about improved market sentiment in the coming months, particularly across rural and semi-urban regions. This, backed by our vast product portfolio and innovative campaigns, we are well-positioned to maintain this growth trajectory', Wadhwa informed. Kia India and JSW MG Motor saw sales grow by 14% (to 22315 units) and 40% (to 6304 units), respectively. In the two-wheeler segment, demand remained healthy with Chennai-based TVS Motor Company reporting sales increase of 14% at 309,287 units in May. Sales of commercial vehicles was subdued. Market leader Tata Motors saw sales fall 9% to 25,872 units in the month under review. In the farm equipment sector, Mahindra sold 38,914 tractors last month, which is an increase of 10% over Veejay Nakra, President – Farm Equipment Business, Mahindra & Mahindra, said, 'Early advancement of above normal Southwest monsoon should bode well for kharif sowing. Land preparation activities are progressing well for paddy sowing. Approval of hike in MSP for Paddy and other kharif crops will bring positive sentiments among farmers. Better reservoir levels , Government announcement of record foodgrain production and introduction of various schemes will help farmers aim higher productivity going forward and in turn augur well for tractor demand.' COMPANY MAY 2024 MAY 2025 % CHANGE Mahindra & Mahindra 43218 52431 21 Tata Motors 46697 41557 -11 Toyota Kirloskar Motor 23928 29280 22.4 Kia India 19500 22315 14.4 JSW MG Motor India 4510 6304 40
