Swaraj Pushkar - Turbocharged https://turbocharged.in Fri, 30 Jan 2026 06:16:41 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0 https://turbocharged.in/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/cropped-TC-Logo-32x32.png Swaraj Pushkar - Turbocharged https://turbocharged.in 32 32 BMW X3 30 xDrive bookings start January 30, ahead of its February 16 launch https://turbocharged.in/bmw-x3-30-xdrive-bookings-start-january-30-ahead-of-16-feb-launch/ Thu, 29 Jan 2026 12:47:10 +0000 https://turbocharged.in/?p=17650 M Sport Pro package expected to have sportier styling and performance upgrades

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BMW is set to open the bookings for the new X3 30 xDrive at 12:30 PM on January 30, 2026, ahead of its February 16 launch.

The outgoing X3 features 2.0-litre turbocharged engines in both of its petrol and diesel variants, connected to BMW’s xDrive AWD system. The upcoming X3 30 xDrive shall add to this lineup with an M Sport Pro package supported by upgraded powertrain options. Although powertrain figures aren’t officially announced as of yet, we can reasonably expect higher power and torque provided the German manufacturer’s racing lineage.

The global-spec X3 30 xDrive, for reference, is powered by a 48V mild-hybrid architecture built around the 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine, generating a combined output of 259PS and 400Nm, and accelerates from nought to 100kmph in just under six seconds.

The new X3 gets sharper lines, a refreshed lighting system, and certain size-enhancing design additions. The characteristic kidney grille continues to glow alongside the X3’s updated DRLs within the headlamps.

The new X3 30 xDrive is expected to cost at a slight premium over the outgoing X3 xDrive20 M Sport, which currently sits at ₹71.20 lakh (ex-showroom) for the petrol variant, and ₹73.10 lakh (ex-showroom) for the diesel variant. At this price point, the new X3 goes head-to-head with other luxury SUVs like the Mercedes-Benz GLC, Volvo XC60 and the Audi Q3.

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BYD Seal recalled in India for possible battery issue https://turbocharged.in/byd-seal-recalled-in-india-for-possible-battery-issue/ Thu, 29 Jan 2026 12:15:33 +0000 https://turbocharged.in/?p=17647 BYD will replace the battery packs free of charge if the fault is found upon inspection

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BYD has issued a recall for all of its Seal models sold in India to check and rectify what could be a battery issue. While the total number of recalls is not officially announced, BYD has asked all owners of the Seal in India to have their vehicles checked at BYD’s authorised service centres.

The issue can be speculated to originate in the cells that comprise the battery pack of the EV. To remedy the same, BYD has offered to run diagnostic checks on the Seal, and on diagnosis of the issue, replace the entire battery pack free of cost.

Owners of the Seal are encouraged to ensure that the inspection is conducted by scheduling a visit at their authorised facilities, preferably between Monday and Friday. Additionally, BYD is also offering to collect the cars for the inspection themselves for customers unable to drive their cars to the facilities.

This recall is exclusively for the BYD Seal, while other models by the brand remain unaffected. The Chinese electric sedan starts at ₹41 lakh (ex-showroom) and has two battery options; a smaller 61.44kWh pack claiming 510km of range and a larger 82.56kWh battery pack with a claimed range of 650km.

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Hyundai Creta Electric now charges 10-80 percent in just 39 minutes https://turbocharged.in/hyundai-creta-electric-now-charges-10-80-percent-in-just-39-minutes/ Thu, 29 Jan 2026 09:16:02 +0000 https://turbocharged.in/?p=17627 OTA software update for both battery pack variants now enables 100kW DC charging

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The Hyundai Creta Electric has received a major update — the SUV now supports 100kW DC charging, slashing its 10-80 percent SoC charging to 39 minutes from the initial period of 58 minutes. This has been achieved via an over-the-air software update, which is being delivered to customers in a phased manner. The software update is purely meant for enabling faster charging and there are no other changes that accompany it.

The update will be rolled out across both battery pack configurations of the Creta Electric — the 42 kWh version producing 135 PS with an MIDC-claimed range of 420 km, and the larger 51.4 kWh variant delivering 171 PS and a claimed 510 km range on a single charge.

On the outside, the Creta Electric borrows most of its features from its ICE counterpart while possessing certain key EV-typical features such as a closed front grille, a minimalistic front fascia, 17-inch aero-styled alloy wheels, and redesigned bumpers. It also gets an additional one-pedal driving mode for more convenient city driving.

The Hyundai Creta Electric is priced from ₹18.02 lakh to ₹24.54 lakh, squarely rivaling the Tata Harrier EV, MG ZS EV, Tata Curvv EV, Mahindra BE 6, and the upcoming Maruti Suzuki eVitara and the Toyota Urban Cruiser Ebella EV.

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MG Majestor teased ahead of 12 Feb launch https://turbocharged.in/mg-majestor-teased-ahead-of-12-feb-launch/ Wed, 28 Jan 2026 13:53:08 +0000 https://turbocharged.in/?p=17598 The full-size premium SUV is a direct rival to the Toyota Fortuner and the Toyota Legender

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JSW-MG Motor India has teased its new full-size SUV, the MG Majestor, ahead of its launch on 12 February. The model will be positioned as a more premium product right above the outgoing MG Gloster. The Majestor, as showcased at the 2025 Bharat Mobility Global Expo, is a rebadged sibling of the Maxus D90 SUV, which is already on sale in other international markets.

Powertrain-identical to the MG Rakan 4×4 launched in Kuwait, at the heart of the Majestor sits a 2.0-litre twin-turbo diesel engine paired with an eight-speed torque converter automatic transmission and a 4×4 drivetrain, producing 216PS and 478Nm.

MG Majestor

The Majestor shares the same platform with the MG Gloster, albeit with a few premium-looking additions. These include (but aren’t limited to) a new blacked-out front grille, vertical headlamps, horizontal LED DRLs akin to the Hector, new alloy wheels, new LED tail lamps, and a dual exhaust along with some new blacked-out cosmetic features. Since the Gloster gets Level 2 ADAS on higher trims, we can expect it to be standard on the Majestor, given its premium positioning.

The price of the Majestor should be north of ₹50 lakh, setting it against full-size SUVs like the Toyota Fortuner and the Toyota Legender. Moreover, if Ford decides to return with the India-bound Endeavour SUV anytime this year, it could potentially rival this newcomer as well.

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BYD considers manufacturing in India https://turbocharged.in/byd-considers-manufacturing-in-india/ Wed, 28 Jan 2026 13:30:09 +0000 https://turbocharged.in/?p=17599 Rising demand might nudge BYD to set up manufacturing plants in India

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BYD is considering commencing local assembly of their vehicles within India given the surge in demand of their EVs in the past year. Although the Chinese brand has shown hesitation in setting up a manufacturing plant in India previously, the numbers might nudge a move from the brand to lead the supply with semi-assembled parts.

This will be cheaper than importing CBUs (completely built units) as BYD has been doing for the past few years, making these EVs more accessible to the customers through more competitive pricing.

Currently, the automaker sells four models in India; the Atto 3 (starting at ₹24.99 lakh ex-showroom), Seal (starting at ₹41 lakh ex-showroom), eMAX 7 (starting at ₹26.99 lakh ex-showroom), and the Sealion 7 (starting at ₹49.40 lakh ex-showroom).

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Renault to launch new model every year in India https://turbocharged.in/renault-to-launch-new-model-every-year-in-india/ Wed, 28 Jan 2026 12:28:10 +0000 https://turbocharged.in/?p=17591 The new Duster is the first among many to come from Renault

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Starting with the new Duster, Renault is looking ahead at a new strategy for India. The brand is planning to launch a new model every year starting this year, bringing more competition to all segments.

Renault pioneered the compact SUV segment with the Duster back in 2012, gaining traction and market share until 2017. Renault still maintained some market share with the help of a facelifted Duster and its compact hatchback, the Kwid, but eventually sales stagnated.

To remedy this, Renault is aiming to obtain 3-5 percent market share by 2030 by mainly tapping into a higher frequency of launches, which should help it against dominant brands like Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai.

The new Duster starts off strong with three engine options, including a strong hybrid. Deliveries of the petrol-only variant start in April, while you will have to wait until the festive season for the strong hybrid.

Renault Triber

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New 2026 Renault Duster unveiled in India https://turbocharged.in/new-2026-renault-duster-unveiled-in-india/ Tue, 27 Jan 2026 14:00:40 +0000 https://turbocharged.in/?p=17543 Gets a strong-hybrid petrol engine option along with new styling among other features

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Renault has unveiled the new Duster in India and it is the third generation of the SUV after it first became the pioneer of the compact SUV segment back in 2012. The new Duster has several changes inside and out; but adheres to the familiar body style, just like the previous generations.

On the inside, you have a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 10.25-inch digital driver cluster paired with a button-rich steering wheel. On the outside, the Duster features new headlamps, a fresh front fascia, new alloy wheels, a new tail lamp setup, an electric-powered tailgate and a fresh-looking sleeker logo.

Renault Duster

Renault is offering three powertrain options; a 1.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine producing 101PS and 160Nm mated with a 6-speed manual transmission and a larger 1.3-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine making 163PS and 280Nm paired with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed DCT gearbox. However, Renault is also offering a en engine strong-hybrid system consisting of a 1.8-litre petrol engine, a 1.4kWh battery and two electric motors.

Renault Duster

The pre-bookings for the new Duster have already commenced and you can book one paying ₹21,000. Deliveries for the ICE-only models start in April, while delivery of the strong hybrid is expected to happen during the festive season.

The price of the new Duster is still under wraps and is company says it will be revealed in March. However, our speculations place it in the ₹10-20 lakh price bracket, putting it head-to-head with heavy-hitters like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Tata Sierra, Mahindra XUV 3XO, Škoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun, and the Maruti Suzuki Victoris.

Renault Duster

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JSW confirmed launch of its first vehicle by Diwali 2026 https://turbocharged.in/jsw-confirmed-launch-of-its-first-vehicle-by-diwali-2026/ Mon, 26 Jan 2026 10:33:59 +0000 https://turbocharged.in/?p=17498 The plug-in hybrid SUV will be a rebadged version of the JSW Jetour T2 i-DM available overseas

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JSW Motors Limited is set to launch its first car in India by Diwali this year. This will be an SUV based on the global-spec JSW Jetour T2 i-DM. The SUV will be sold as a premium offering by the standalone JSW brand, as opposed to other models like the MG Hector and the MG Windsor that are currently sold under the JSW-MG partnership.

The international-spec plug-in hybrid T2 i-DM SUV is built on a monocoque chassis while sporting a boxy design, which gives it a rugged appeal.  The T2 i-DM features both 5-seater and 7-seater layouts, based on the variants and trims. The globally sold plug-in hybrid version of the T2 i-DM is powered by a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine producing 156.3PS at 5,200rpm and 220Nm at 2,500rpm while the two electric motors together produce 224.3PS and 390Nm.

JSW

JSW said that they will only be launching the plug-in hybrid version of the SUV, while key features like drivetrain and trims remain undisclosed as of yet. Following the SUV, a second launch is confirmed for 2027, but mystery continues to shroud this newcomer as well, since no specific details have been confirmed.

The India-spec T2 i-DM is expected to be priced between ₹15 lakh and ₹30 lakh, opening up its competition quite broadly to popular SUVs in the market. Depending on the drivetrain (FWD/4WD), it will rival the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Victoris, Tata Harrier, Tata Safari, Mahindra XUV 7XO, Jeep Compass, Jeep Meridian, Volkswagen Tiguan, and the Skoda Kodiaq.

In a segment this crowded and competitive, the India-spec T2 i-DM’s price and capability will ultimately decide if it’s here to stay, or here to sway.

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Import duty on European cars to be slashed to 40 percent, thanks to India-EU tariff deal https://turbocharged.in/import-duty-on-european-cars-could-be-slashed-to-40-percent-thanks-to-india-eu-tariff-deal/ Mon, 26 Jan 2026 07:53:27 +0000 https://turbocharged.in/?p=17493 Trade deal set to reduce import duty from 110 percent to 40 percent; may be lowered to 10 percent soon

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The ongoing India-EU trade deal is set to slash tariffs on imported cars to 40 percent from the current 110 percent, opening the market to international competition. This reduction in import duty would be applicable on a limited number of cars imported to India from the EU via the CBU route (Completely Built Units).

Currently, this number is set to 2.5 lakh imported cars for all brands combined, but is subject to change. Additionally, for this reduction to apply, the import price of these individual units must not be less than 15,000 Euros (₹16.16 lakh), and must be imported from anywhere within the 27 nations that are part of the European Union. Interestingly, a similar deal already exists between India and the UK, making the Volkswagen Tiguan (along with other models imported from the UK) significantly cheaper than its CBU version.

It was also affirmed that this import duty will be lowered to 10 percent within five years, making imported cars from the EU much more affordable than ever before in India and simultaneously allowing an ease of market access for European manufacturers like BMW, Volkswagen, and Mercedes-Benz, all of whom have set up manufacturing units in India. This will be particularly beneficial to premium marques like Porsche, Ferrari, Maserati, and Lamborghini, who do not prefer to manufacture abroad.

Sources also clarified that for at least the first five years, this reduction in import duty will be exclusively applicable on ICE cars, and not on EVs. This way, the government aims to protect the domestic EV manufacturers like Tata and Mahindra from international market competition. Five years from now, similar reduction in import duty may be applicable on Europe-imported EVs as well.

This may have a major effect on the Indian automakers, since the potentially lowered prices may compel domestic manufacturers to upgrade their models currently in the market. Alternatively, this might also lead to an overall drop of car prices across the Indian market to allow for competitive pricing. For the enthusiasts, it marks quite a remarkable moment for their savings to be finally put to use.

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Citroën launches new variants of the C3 and the Aircross X https://turbocharged.in/citroen-launches-new-variants-of-the-c3-and-the-aircross-x/ Sat, 24 Jan 2026 13:14:49 +0000 https://turbocharged.in/?p=17486 The new models will be sold via a booking-led strategy, essentially making them built-to-order

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Citroën India has introduced new variants for two models in its lineup—the C3 and the Aircross X—while also announcing a shift to a bookings-led production strategy for select variants.

Under this approach, vehicles will be manufactured against confirmed customer orders instead of dealer stock. The strategy has been rolled out with the launch of two new variants: the Aircross X Max Turbo 5-seater MT, priced at ₹12.41 lakh, and the C3 Live (O), priced at ₹5.49 lakh (both ex-showroom).

Compared to the 7-seater version, it offers an additional 60mm of knee room in the second row, a rear centre armrest with cup holders, and a three-step rear seat recline. It is available in Polar White, Deep Forest Green and Perla Nera Black, paired with Dark Brown interiors.

For the C3, the newly introduced Live (O) variant sits above the standard Live trim and adds over 10 features. These include leatherette seats, a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a rearview camera. Minor exterior updates such as wheel covers and additional cladding are also included. The C3 Live (O) is offered exclusively in Perla Nera Black.

At their price, the new variant of the C3 competes with Hyundai Exter, Maruti Suzuki S-presso, and the Tata Punch, while the Aircross X 5-seater variant competes with the Hyundai Creta, Maruti Suzuki Victoris, and the Tata Nexon.

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