The automotive world buzzed with excitement during the week of April 21 to April 26, 2025, with major updates ranging from new model launches to regulatory changes. Highlights include the Tata Nexon EV earning a stellar crash test rating, fresh spy shots of several upcoming vehicles, significant price hikes from Maruti Suzuki, and the Kia Carens 2025 launch announcement.

Let’s dive into all the major car news that made headlines this week.

Tata Nexon EV Scores 5 Stars In Bharat NCAP Crash Test

The biggest safety news this week came from Tata Motors. The Tata Nexon EV, especially the newly introduced 45 kWh long-range variants, has secured a 5-star safety rating from Bharat NCAP (BNCAP).

• Safety Test Impact: The same 5-star rating achieved by earlier variants now extends to the 45 kWh models.

• Customer Confidence: This solidifies Tata’s leadership in offering some of the safest electric SUVs in India.

Maruti Suzuki Increases Prices On Four Popular Models

Starting this week, Maruti Suzuki has increased the prices for four of its popular models across its Arena and Nexa dealerships.

• Affected Models: XL6, Ertiga, Wagon R, and Fronx.

• Price Hike Details: Increments of up to ₹14,000 depending on the model and variant.

• Reasons for Increase: Rising input costs and regulatory compliance have been cited as key factors.

Kia Carens 2025 Launch Date Confirmed

Exciting news for MPV lovers! Kia has officially announced that the updated 2025 Carens will launch on May 8, 2025.

• New vs Old: It will be sold alongside the existing model, offering refreshed styling and enhanced feature sets.

• Customer Expectations: Anticipated updates include modern tech upgrades, revised design cues, and possibly new drivetrain options.

Spy Shots Round-Up: Multiple Upcoming Cars Caught Testing

Several future models were spotted undergoing testing last week, hinting at exciting launches ahead:

1. Three-Row Toyota Hyryder

• A heavily camouflaged, 7-seater version of the popular Hyryder was spotted.

• Expected to feature distinctive styling compared to the current 5-seater model.

2. Facelifted Tesla Model Y

• The facelifted Tesla Model Y made its debut on Indian roads in spy shots.

• Tesla’s entry into India seems imminent with this model.

3. Next-Gen Hyundai Venue N Line

• The next-generation Hyundai Venue N Line was seen in South Korea.

• Sportier design tweaks are evident, in line with Hyundai’s N Line philosophy.

MG M9 MPV To Be Launched As CKD

MG Motor India announced that its upcoming flagship MPV, the MG M9, will enter India via the CKD (Completely Knocked Down) route.

• Pricing Advantage: CKD assembly allows for more competitive pricing.

• Target Market: The M9 will be a premium offering, competing with diesel and hybrid rivals in the MPV segment.

Gujarat Government Slashes EV Road Tax

In a move to boost declining EV sales, the Gujarat Government has reduced EV road tax from 5% to 1%.

• Policy Goal: Encourage EV adoption amid a 40% slump in sales over the past year.

• Impact: This reduction could make EV ownership significantly more affordable in Gujarat.

Renault Opens New Design Centre in India

Renault India inaugurated a new design center — now its second-largest globally after its Paris studio.

• Future Plans: Renault also confirmed that five new models will be launched in India over the next two years.

• Local Innovation Focus: Emphasis on designing vehicles tailored for Indian preferences.

MG Hector Now E20 Compliant

In another important development, MG Motor confirmed that the MG Hector and Hector Plus are now E20 fuel compliant.

• Sustainability Step: E20 compliance supports India’s ethanol blending program.

• Bonus for Buyers: MG is offering special rewards to 20 customers purchasing these newly compliant models.

FAQs:

Which car achieved a 5-star rating in Bharat NCAP recently?

The Tata Nexon EV, including its 45 kWh long-range variants, secured a 5-star crash safety rating under Bharat NCAP.

What is the launch date for the new Kia Carens 2025?

The updated Kia Carens 2025 is scheduled for launch on May 8, 2025.

Which Maruti Suzuki models faced a price hike?

Prices were hiked for the XL6, Ertiga, Wagon R, and Fronx models.

What is the new road tax rate for EVs in Gujarat?

The Gujarat Government reduced the road tax for EVs to just 1%, down from 5%.

What are Renault’s plans for the Indian market?

Renault plans to launch five new models over the next two years and has inaugurated a new design center in India.