automoblies - Refurbished Mobiles

Volkswagen Tera Full Specifications: 114bhp Turbo Engine, ADAS, and Safety Rating.

For years, Volkswagen fans in India have been asking for one thing: a compact SUV that doesn’t cost a fortune but still feels like a “proper” German car. While the Taigun and Virtus satisfied the premium crowd, the entry-level segment was left wide open for rivals like the Tata Nexon and Maruti Brezza.

Enter the Volkswagen Tera SUV. Revealed globally in late 2024 and expected to hit Indian showrooms by March 2026, this sub-4-meter crossover is Volkswagen’s biggest bet yet for the Indian mass market. With an expected starting price of ₹8.90 Lakh (Ex-showroom), the Tera is built on the heavily localized MQB-A0-IN platform—the same foundation that made the Skoda Kylaq possible.

The real truth is, Volkswagen is no longer playing the “luxury-only” card. They want your family’s first SUV to be a VW. But with heavy competition and a price tag that sits slightly above its rivals, the question remains: Is it worth the price tag? Don’t waste your money if you are looking for a soft, pillowy ride—the Tera is built for the driver who loves to take corners.

**A cinematic front-angle shot of the Volkswagen Tera SUV in a deep ‘Lava Red’ color being driven on a winding scenic road in the Western Ghats**

1. QUICK SPECS TABLE (Key Highlights)

Feature	Details (Expected India Spec)
Engine	1.0L 3-Cylinder TSI (Turbocharged)
Power	114 BHP @ 5000-5500 rpm
Torque	178 Nm @ 1750-4500 rpm
Transmission	6-Speed Manual / 6-Speed Torque Converter
Boot Space	350 – 380 Litres
Ground Clearance	189 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity	45 Litres

2. EXTERIOR DESIGN & ROAD PRESENCE

Volkswagen has kept the Tera’s design “clean and timeless,” which is a polite way of saying it doesn’t look like a Christmas tree.

Front Profile: It features a slim, horizontally slatted grille that connects seamlessly to the LED headlamps. It looks like a “Mini-Tiguan,” which gives it a more mature road presence than the quirky Kia Sonet.
Side Profile: The 189mm ground clearance is evident, and the 16-inch (or 17-inch on top trims) alloy wheels fill the arches well. The sharp character line running from the fender to the taillight is a classic VW touch.
Rear Design: You get a full-width LED light bar, similar to the Taigun, which looks stunning at night. Does it turn heads? Maybe not like a flashy Mahindra, but it exudes a “silent wealth” vibe that many Indian professionals prefer.

3. INTERIOR, COMFORT & FEATURES

If you’ve sat in a Taigun, you’ll feel right at home here. The layout is minimalist and driver-centric.

Dashboard: You get a 10-inch Play infotainment system that is incredibly smooth. The material quality is top-notch in terms of fit and finish, though you will find hard plastics on the lower half of the dashboard to keep costs down.
Space: The wheelbase is generous for a sub-4m car. Legroom at the back is decent, but seating three adults is a squeeze. It’s perfect for a family of four.
The Feature List:
- Included: Wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, Ventilated Seats (Top Trim), Electric Sunroof, and Digital Cockpit.
- Missing: 360-degree camera (expected only in a future facelift) and a powered tailgate.

**A wide-angle interior shot of the Volkswagen Tera SUV’s dashboard. Highlighting the digital instrument cluster and the large touchscreen infotainment.**

4. ENGINE PERFORMANCE & DRIVING DYNAMICS

This is where the Volkswagen Tera SUV justifies its price.

The 1.0L TSI Magic: Don’t let the small displacement fool you. The 1.0L Turbo Petrol produces 114 BHP and feels incredibly punchy on highways once the turbo kicks in at 1750 rpm.
City Drive: The steering is light and precise. However, the real truth is, there is a slight turbo lag below 1500 rpm. You might find yourself shifting down a gear in heavy Mumbai or Bangalore traffic.
Highway Drive: It stays glued to the road at 100kmph+. There is minimal body roll, and the brakes provide excellent “bite” and confidence.
Suspension: The suspension is tuned on the firmer side. The suspension absorbs potholes easily at high speeds, but you will feel the sharper bumps at low speeds. It’s a trade-off for that legendary German handling.

5. SAFETY (The German Fortress)

Safety is the Tera’s strongest selling point. The global model recently scored a 5-star rating in Latin NCAP, and the India-spec version is expected to follow suit in Bharat NCAP.

Standard Safety: Even the base variant is expected to come with 6 Airbags, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), and Multi-Collision Braking.
Build Quality: The “thud” when you close the doors is reassuring. It feels far more solid than the Korean rivals in this segment.

6. REAL WORLD MILEAGE (The Truth)

TSI engines are sensitive to driving style. If you have a “heavy foot,” the mileage will drop significantly.

ARAI Claimed Mileage: 19.2 kmpl (Manual)
Real World City Mileage: 11 – 13 kmpl
Real World Highway Mileage: 16 – 18 kmpl (Driving at 80-90 kmph)

7. THE COMPETITION

Volkswagen Tera vs Tata Nexon vs Maruti Brezza

Feature	VW Tera	Tata Nexon	Maruti Brezza
Engine	1.0L Turbo (114 BHP)	1.2L Turbo (118 BHP)	1.5L NA (101 BHP)
Driving Feel	Sporty & Precise	Solid & Heavy	Smooth & Easy
Safety	5-Star (Expected)	5-Star (Global/Bharat NCAP)	4-Star (Previous GNCAP)
Value (VFM)	Premium Build	High Feature Count	Reliability & Service

The Winner: If you are a driving enthusiast, the VW Tera is the clear winner. For features and ruggedness, the Nexon takes the lead. For peace of mind and resale, the Brezza is still king.

8. FINAL VERDICT

Buy it if:

You want German engineering and safety at a sub-4m price point.
You enjoy driving and want a car that feels stable at high speeds.
You prefer a clean, minimalist design over “busy” futuristic styling.

Skip it if:

You want the cheapest maintenance (VW parts are still pricier than Maruti/Tata).
You need a soft, cushy ride for purely city use.
You need a wide rear seat for three healthy adults.

Score: 8.5/10

9. FAQs (People Also Ask)

What is the expected launch date of the Volkswagen Tera in India?

It is expected to launch around March 27, 2026, with bookings likely opening a month prior.

Will there be a diesel option?

No, Volkswagen has moved away from diesel in India. The Tera will only be available with the 1.0L TSI petrol engine.

Is the VW Tera a 5-seater or 7-seater?

The Tera is strictly a 5-seater compact SUV.

What is the estimated on-road price?

While the ex-showroom might start at ₹8.90 Lakh, the top-end automatic variant could go up to ₹16 Lakh on-road in most cities.

How is the maintenance cost compared to Maruti?

Under VW’s “4EVER Care” program, maintenance has become more affordable, but it will still be 20-30% higher than a Maruti Brezza over a 5-year period.

BY admin January 10, 2026

automoblies

Nissan Gravite 2026 Review: The Most Affordable 7-Seater MPV in India?

The Indian family car market is about to get a serious “Gravity” pull. After the massive success of the Magnite, Nissan is finally expanding its portfolio with a car that 1.4 billion people have been asking for: an affordable, stylish, and practical 7-seater. Say hello to the Nissan Gravite.

Expected to debut on January 21, 2026, with an aggressive starting price of ₹6.20 Lakh (Ex-showroom), the Gravite is not just a “badge-engineered” twin of the Renault Triber. It is a strategically designed B-MPV aimed at middle-class Indian households who need the space of an Ertiga but have the budget of a hatchback. The real truth is, Nissan is betting everything on this “resurgence” strategy. If you’ve been looking for a car that fits your entire “Tribe” without breaking the bank, this might be your next ride. But is it worth the price tag when compared to established rivals? Let’s peel back the layers.

**A cinematic front-angle shot of the Nissan Gravite in a vibrant Pearl White color being driven on a scenic Indian coastal highway.**

2. QUICK SPECS TABLE (Key Highlights)

Feature	Specification Details
Engine	1.0L BR10 3-Cylinder Petrol
Power	72 PS @ 6250 rpm
Torque	96 Nm @ 3500 rpm
Transmission	5-speed Manual / 5-speed AMT
Seating Capacity	7-Seater (Modular)
Ground Clearance	182 mm
Fuel Tank	40 Litres
Boot Space	84L (All seats up) / 625L (3rd row removed)

3. EXTERIOR DESIGN & ROAD PRESENCE

Nissan has a knack for making budget cars look expensive. The Gravite follows the design language of its big brother, the X-Trail, and the global Ariya.

The Front Fascia: Unlike the Triber’s curvy look, the Gravite gets a bold, upright C-shaped grille. The “GRAVITE” lettering is embossed right on the bonnet, giving it a very “Land Rover-esque” premium vibe.
Lighting: You get sleek horizontal LED DRLs and segmented headlamps that look futuristic. Does it turn heads? Absolutely. Especially in the new signature “Sunset Orange” or “Nebula Blue” shades.
Stance: For a sub-4-meter car, it looks surprisingly muscular. The 182mm ground clearance and tall roof rails give it an SUV-inspired silhouette that Indian buyers love.

Side profile view of the Nissan Gravite parked on a clean asphalt mountain road.

4. INTERIOR, COMFORT & FEATURES

Step inside, and you’ll notice that Nissan has worked hard to move away from the “budget” feel of its platform-mate.

Dashboard & Tech: You are greeted by an 8-inch floating touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The instrument cluster is a 7-inch digital unit that looks much cleaner than the Magnite’s old-school graphics.
Seating Modularity: This is the Gravite’s superpower. You can fold, slide, or completely remove the third-row seats.
Space: * Front/Middle Row: Excellent legroom. Two adults can sit comfortably in the middle row, and a child can squeeze in the center.
- Third Row: Strictly for kids or short city trips. Don’t waste your money if you plan to seat seven tall adults for long highway journeys.
Missing Features: While it gets a wireless charger and rear AC vents, it misses out on a sunroof and ventilated seats—features that are becoming common even in this segment.

5. ENGINE PERFORMANCE & DRIVING DYNAMICS

Under the hood lies the familiar 1.0L Naturally Aspirated petrol engine.

City Drive: The steering is light, making it a breeze to park in tight spots like Karol Bagh or T. Nagar. The 1st and 2nd gears are short, so you won’t feel underpowered in “stop-and-go” traffic.
Highway Drive: This is where the 72 PS engine shows its limits. The real truth is, with 7 people and luggage, overtakes require careful planning. It feels most comfortable cruising at 80-90 kmph. At 120 kmph, the 3-cylinder engine starts to feel buzzy.
Suspension: This is a highlight. The suspension absorbs potholes easily, a typical trait of the CMF-A platform. Whether it’s a broken village road or a speed breaker, the Gravite stays composed without much bounciness.

6. SAFETY (The Nissan Shield)

Nissan isn’t taking safety lightly in 2026.

Airbags: 6 Airbags are expected as standard across top variants.
Build: While the Global NCAP rating isn’t out yet, its sibling (Triber) scored 4 stars. Nissan claims the Gravite uses reinforced steel in the A and B pillars for better crash protection.
Features: It comes with ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and Hill Start Assist.

7. REAL WORLD MILEAGE (The Truth)

Fuel prices are no joke, and Nissan knows it.

ARAI Claimed: 19.5 kmpl (Manual) / 18.2 kmpl (AMT).
Real World City: Expect 12-14 kmpl in heavy bumper-to-bumper traffic with the AC on full blast.
Real World Highway: You can easily achieve 16-18 kmpl if you maintain a steady foot.

8. THE COMPETITION: Nissan Gravite vs Rivals

Feature	Nissan Gravite	Renault Triber	Maruti Ertiga
Engine	1.0L (72 PS)	1.0L (72 PS)	1.5L (103 PS)
Price (Starting)	₹6.20 Lakh	₹6.00 Lakh	₹8.80 Lakh
Safety	6 Airbags (Top)	4 Airbags	4 Airbags
VFM Factor	High (Design/Tech)	High (Price)	Medium (High Entry Price)

The Winner: If you want a car that looks modern and premium, the Nissan Gravite wins. If you want the absolute cheapest 7-seater, stick with the Triber. If you have a bigger budget and need more power, the Ertiga remains the king.

9. FINAL VERDICT

Buy it if:

You need a versatile 7-seater on a strict budget of under ₹9 Lakh (on-road).
You want a car with excellent ground clearance for rough roads.
You prioritize modern looks and a digital-first cabin.

Skip it if:

You do a lot of fully-loaded highway driving (The engine will feel underpowered).
You want a premium automatic (The AMT is convenient but jerky).
You are a speed enthusiast.

Score: 8/10

10. FAQs (People Also Ask)

What is the on-road price of Nissan Gravite in Delhi?

The expected on-road price for the base variant will be around ₹6.90 Lakh, while the top-end Tekna AMT could touch ₹10.5 Lakh.

Is there a CNG option available?

Yes, Nissan is expected to launch a factory-fitted Gravite CNG by mid-2026 to compete with Maruti’s S-CNG range.

What is the waiting period for Nissan Gravite?

Given the hype, expect a waiting period of 2 to 4 months post-launch in major cities like Mumbai and Bangalore.

Does it have an automatic transmission?

Yes, it comes with a 5-speed Easy-Shift AMT which is great for city commutes.

Is Nissan Gravite better than Magnite?

They serve different needs. Magnite is a 5-seater SUV for those who want style and turbo power. Gravite is for the family man who needs extra seats.

BY admin January 10, 2026

automoblies

Skoda Kushaq Facelift (2026): Launch Date, Expected Price in India, New Design & Interior Updates, Engine Options, Mileage, Features, Safety, Variants, Colours, Booking & On-Road Details

In the Indian mid-size SUV segment, there are cars that sell on “features” and then there are cars that sell on “feeling.” The Skoda Kushaq Facelift, expected to launch in mid-2026, is attempting to master both. Since its 2021 debut, the Kushaq has been the darling of driving enthusiasts, but it often faced criticism for a “simple” interior and missing features like a panoramic sunroof.

The real truth is: Skoda has finally listened. The 2026 Facelift isn’t just a bumper job; it’s a strategic upgrade designed to take back the throne from the tech-heavy Hyundai Creta and the stylish Kia Seltos. With an expected ex-showroom starting price of ₹11.11 Lakh, it remains one of the most accessible ways to enter the world of European engineering.

**A cinematic front-angle shot of the Skoda Kushaq Facelift being driven on a scenic Indian highway with lush green mountains in the background.**

1. QUICK SPECS TABLE (Key Highlights)

Feature	1.0L TSI Petrol	1.5L TSI Petrol
Engine	999cc, 3-Cylinder Turbo	1498cc, 4-Cylinder Turbo
Power (BHP)	114 BHP @ 5000 rpm	150 BHP @ 5000 rpm
Torque (NM)	178 Nm @ 1750 rpm	250 Nm @ 1600 rpm
Transmission	6MT / 8-Speed AT (New)	6MT / 7-Speed DSG
Ground Clearance	188 mm	188 mm
Boot Space	385 Litres	385 Litres
Fuel Tank	50 Litres	50 Litres

2. EXTERIOR DESIGN & ROAD PRESENCE

Skoda has adopted its new “Modern Solid” design language for this facelift. While the silhouette remains familiar, the details are far sharper.

The Grille: The signature butterfly grille now features a more 3D effect with chrome or piano black surrounds depending on the variant.
Lighting: You get the new “Crystalline” LED headlamps. Raat mein rasta bilkul din jaisa dikhta hai. The rear features a connected LED tail-lamp strip, which is the current trend in India.
Wheels: The 17-inch alloy wheels have a new “Aero” design that looks premium and helps slightly with fuel efficiency.
Road Presence: It still isn’t the biggest SUV in its class (the Creta and Elevate look bulkier), but it looks the most “planted” and athletic. It turns heads because of its clean, sophisticated lines, not loud styling.

Side profile view of the Skoda Kushaq Facelift parked on a clean asphalt road near a modern glass building.

3. INTERIOR, COMFORT & FEATURES

If you found the old Kushaq cabin a bit “plain,” the facelift will surprise you.

Dashboard: The 10-inch touchscreen now features smoother graphics and integrated wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. The plastic quality has improved, with more soft-touch materials on the mid-dash.
Space: The 2651mm wheelbase ensures excellent legroom. However, the real truth is: the Kushaq is still a 4-seater + 1 child car. Three healthy adults at the back will be a tight squeeze.
The “Big” Additions:
- Panoramic Sunroof: Finally! The single-pane unit is gone.
- Massage Seats: A segment-first massage function for the rear seats is rumored for the top-end Monte Carlo trim.
- ADAS Level 2: Includes Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keep Assist for those long highway runs.
- 360-Degree Camera: Making parking in tight Indian alleys much easier.

**Wide-angle interior shot of the Skoda Kushaq Facelift dashboard.**

4. ENGINE PERFORMANCE & DRIVING DYNAMICS

Is it worth the price tag? For a driver, the answer is a resounding YES.

City Drive: The 1.0L TSI is surprisingly punchy. The new 8-speed automatic (replacing the old 6-speed) makes crawling in Mumbai or Bangalore traffic much smoother. The steering is light at low speeds, making U-turns effortless.
Highway Drive: This is where the 1.5L TSI shines. It produces 150 BHP and 250 NM of torque. You can cruise at 100-120 km/h all day without the engine feeling stressed. Body roll is minimal compared to the softer-sprung rivals.
Suspension: The suspension is tuned for Indian roads. It’s slightly on the firmer side, which means it doesn’t “float” like a boat, but it absorbs potholes easily with a muted “thud” rather than a bone-jarring rattle.

5. SAFETY (The Gold Standard)

Safety is the Kushaq’s strongest card.

NCAP Rating: The Kushaq holds a 5-star Global NCAP rating for both adult and child occupants.
Build: The MQB-A0-IN platform is built with high-strength steel. The doors close with that reassuring European “thud.”
Safety Kit: 6 Airbags (Standard on top trims), ESC (Electronic Stability Control), Multi-collision brakes, and ISOFIX child seat mounts come as standard or widely available across the range.

6. REAL WORLD MILEAGE (The Truth)

Don’t go blindly by the brochures. Here is what you will actually get in Indian conditions:

Engine / Variant	ARAI Claimed	Real World (City)	Real World (Highway)
1.0L TSI Manual	19.76 kmpl	11-12 kmpl	15-16 kmpl
1.0L TSI Auto	18.09 kmpl	9-10 kmpl	14-15 kmpl
1.5L TSI DSG	18.86 kmpl	8.5-10 kmpl	16-17 kmpl*

*The 1.5L engine features Active Cylinder Technology (ACT) which shuts down 2 cylinders during light cruising, making it more efficient than the 1.0L on highways!

7. THE COMPETITION (Auto-Selected Rivals)

Skoda Kushaq vs Hyundai Creta vs Kia Seltos

Feature	Skoda Kushaq Facelift	Hyundai Creta (2025)	Kia Seltos (2025)
Performance	Best (150 BHP TSI)	Good (158 BHP Turbo)	Good (158 BHP Turbo)
Ride Quality	Best (Sturdy & Planted)	Comfort-Oriented	Sporty (Firm)
Tech/Features	Much Improved	Best (Dual Screens)	Loaded (Bose, HUD)
Safety Rating	5 Stars (GNCAP)	Not Tested (India)	3 Stars (Old Rating)

Winner: If you love driving and want the safest car for your family, the Kushaq wins. If you want a mobile “gadget” on wheels with a diesel option, the Creta is the better VFM.

8. FINAL VERDICT

Buy it if:

You prioritize safety above all else.
You want an SUV that feels like a driving machine on the highway.
You appreciate a timeless design and European build quality.

Skip it if:

You frequently travel with three adults in the rear.
You want the highest possible resale value (Maruti/Hyundai still lead here).
You want a Diesel engine for very high monthly running.

Score: 8.5/10

9. FAQs (People Also Ask)

What is the on-road price of Skoda Kushaq Facelift in Delhi?

The expected ex-showroom price starts at ₹11.11 Lakh. On-road prices will likely range from ₹13 Lakh to ₹22 Lakh depending on the state and insurance.

Does Kushaq Facelift have a CNG option?

No, Skoda focuses purely on TSI turbo-petrol engines. There is no CNG or Diesel variant planned.

What is the waiting period?

Since it’s a new launch, expect a waiting period of 2 to 4 months in major cities like Delhi, Bangalore, and Mumbai.

Is the DSG gearbox reliable now?

Skoda has improved the DQ200 DSG unit with better cooling and hardware. While much more reliable than 10 years ago, it still requires proper maintenance compared to a standard Torque Converter.

BY admin January 9, 2026

toyota-rav4-6th-gen-review-india-price-mileage

automoblies

Toyota RAV4 6th Gen (2026): Launch Date, Expected Price, Hybrid Powertrain, Mileage, New Features, Safety Tech, Interior/Exterior Updates, Variants & Availability

For years, Indian enthusiasts have asked one question: “Why does Toyota sell the Fortuner but not the RAV4?”

Well, the wait is technically over. The 6th Generation Toyota RAV4 has made its global debut, and with Toyota India’s aggressive hybrid strategy (following the Hyryder’s success), this SUV is the perfect bridge between the Hyryder and the Fortuner.

The new RAV4 isn’t just a crossover; it’s the best-selling SUV in the world for a reason. But in India, it enters a dangerous territory—the ₹35 Lakh – ₹40 Lakh price bracket. This is where the Hyundai Tucson reigns supreme and where German entry-level luxury SUVs start.

Does the “Toyota Reliability” + “Hybrid Efficiency” combo justify the premium tag? I drove the 2.5L Hybrid AWD variant to find out.

**A cinematic front-angle shot of the 2026 Toyota RAV4 being driven on a scenic Indian coastal road.**

1. QUICK SPECS TABLE (Key Highlights)

Parameter	Specification
Engine	2.5L Dynamic Force Petrol + Electric Motors (5th Gen Hybrid)
Power	236 BHP (Combined System Output)
Torque	221 Nm (Engine) + Instant Electric Torque
Transmission	e-CVT (Electronically Controlled)
Drivetrain	AWD-i (Electronic All-Wheel Drive)
Boot Space	580 Litres
Ground Clearance	195 mm
Fuel Tank	55 Litres

2. EXTERIOR DESIGN & ROAD PRESENCE

The 6th Gen RAV4 has ditched the “soft crossover” look for a proper, rugged SUV stance.

The Face: It borrows heavily from the US-spec Toyota Tacoma trucks. The “Hammerhead” front grille is bold, vertical, and flanked by sharp LED headlights that look angry.
The Profile: The wheel arches are geometric (square-ish), giving it an off-road vibe. It sits on 19-inch alloy wheels that fill the arches well.
The Rear: The tail lamps are sleeker, and dual exhaust tips (real ones!) give it a sporty character.
Does it turn heads? Yes, but not because it’s flashy. It turns heads because it looks “tough.” It doesn’t look like a fragile city car; it looks like it can take a beating.

Side profile view of Toyota RAV4 6th Gen parked on a dusty trail.

3. INTERIOR, COMFORT & FEATURES

Toyota interiors used to be boring. The RAV4 6th Gen changes that narrative—mostly.

Dashboard: The centerpiece is a massive 12.9-inch infotainment screen running the new ‘Arene’ OS. It’s fluid, supports Wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, and finally has high-resolution graphics.
Material Quality: It’s built to last. Soft-touch rubberized materials cover the dash (easy to clean), but you will still find hard plastics on the lower door pads. It doesn’t feel as luxurious as a Hyundai Tucson, but it feels more durable.
Space:
- Rear Seat: Excellent legroom. The floor is nearly flat, so the middle passenger stays happy. However, the under-thigh support is slightly lacking for tall passengers compared to the Tiguan.
Features:
- JBL Premium Audio: 11 Speakers (Bass is punchy).
- Ventilated Seats: A must for India.
- Digital Rearview Mirror: A cool party trick that uses a camera if your boot is stuffed to the roof.

**Wide-angle interior shot of the dashboard and steering wheel of 2026 Toyota RAV4.**

4. ENGINE PERFORMANCE & DRIVING DYNAMICS

This is the ace up Toyota’s sleeve. The 2.5L Hybrid powertrain is a masterpiece of efficiency and smoothness.

City Drive (The EV Mode)

In start-stop traffic, the RAV4 runs on pure EV mode for nearly 40-50% of the time. It is silent, vibration-free, and incredibly relaxing. The e-CVT has no gear shifts—just a seamless wave of power.

Highway Drive

Step on the gas, and the petrol engine wakes up. With 236 BHP, it is fast.

0-100 kmph: It does it in roughly 7.8 seconds. That is faster than the Fortuner!
Overtaking: The electric motor gives you an instant “shove” when you want to overtake. No lag, no waiting for turbo spool.
Stability: It handles like a car, not a truck. The TNGA-K platform is stiff. There is body roll if you push hard into corners (it’s still an SUV), but it feels planted at 120 kmph.
Suspension: It’s tuned for comfort. It glides over small potholes. Sharp bumps do filter through, but it never feels “crashy.”

5. SAFETY (Crucial Section)

Toyota doesn’t skip on safety.

TSS 4.0 (Toyota Safety Sense): This is the next-gen ADAS.
- Proactive Driving Assist: It subtly brakes and steers to maintain distance from pedestrians/cyclists before you even notice them.
- Lane Tracing Assist: Keeps you centered on the highway without “ping-ponging.”
Build: 8 Airbags are standard. While the India-spec rating isn’t out, the global model is a 5-Star achiever in Euro NCAP and IIHS.

6. REAL WORLD MILEAGE (The Truth)

This is why you buy a RAV4 over a Tiguan or Compass.

ARAI Claimed (Est): ~24 kmpl
Real World (City Traffic): 19 – 21 kmpl. (Yes, you read that right. An SUV this big delivering hatchback mileage).
Real World (Highway): 17 – 18 kmpl. (Hybrids are slightly less efficient on highways than cities, but still phenomenal).

Compared to the Tiguan’s 9 kmpl in the city, the RAV4 pays for itself in fuel savings over 5 years.

7. THE COMPETITION: RAV4 vs The World

Based on price and size, the RAV4 fights the Hyundai Tucson and Volkswagen Tiguan.

Feature	Toyota RAV4 Hybrid	Hyundai Tucson (Diesel)	VW Tiguan (Petrol)
Engine	2.5L Hybrid (Petrol+Electric)	2.0L Turbo Diesel	2.0L TSI Turbo Petrol
Power	236 BHP	184 BHP	187 BHP
Mileage (Real)	19-21 kmpl	12-14 kmpl	8-10 kmpl
Tech/Interior	8/10 (Functional)	10/10 (Luxurious)	8/10 (Understated)
Driving Fun	Smooth/Relaxed	Torquey/Punchy	Sharp/Sporty
Reliability	Legendary	Good	Moderate

The Comparison Verdict:

Choose VW Tiguan: If you want German driving dynamics and don’t care about mileage.
Choose Hyundai Tucson: If you want a diesel engine and the most futuristic-looking interior.
Choose Toyota RAV4: If you want a “fill it, shut it, forget it” experience with luxury-car silence and hatchback-level fuel bills.

8. FINAL VERDICT

Score: 9/10

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 is the most sensible luxury SUV in India. It doesn’t have the flashy ambient lights of a Mercedes or the sheer speed of a BMW, but it does everything else perfectly. It is spacious, safe, and unbelievably fuel-efficient.

Buy it if:

You hate visiting fuel pumps: The 900 km+ tank range is liberating.
You want reliability: It’s a Toyota. It will likely outlast you.
You want a sleeper: It’s powerful (236 BHP) but doesn’t shout about it.

Skip it if:

You want a status symbol: The badge doesn’t carry the same weight as “Audi” or “BMW” at this price point.
You want a dedicated off-roader: It handles trails well, but it’s not a Fortuner 4×4.
Price is the only factor: At an estimated ₹40 Lakh, it is expensive compared to the XUV700 or Scorpio-N.

9. FAQs (People Also Ask)

Q: What is the estimated price of the Toyota RAV4 in India?

A: Since it comes via the CBU/CKD route, expect prices to start at ₹35 Lakh and go up to ₹42 Lakh (On-road) for the top-spec Hybrid AWD.

Q: Is the RAV4 Hybrid better than the Fortuner?

A: They are different beasts. The Fortuner is a ladder-frame truck for hardcore off-roading. The RAV4 is a monocoque SUV for comfort, city driving, and efficiency. The RAV4 is much more comfortable than the Fortuner.

Q: Does the RAV4 require charging?

A: No. The standard RAV4 Hybrid is “self-charging.” You just fill petrol, and the car charges its own battery while driving and braking. (There is a Plug-in Hybrid version globally, but India gets the self-charging one primarily).

Q: What is the waiting period?

A: Being an import-heavy model, expect a waiting period of 3 to 6 months initially.

BY admin January 8, 2026

kia-seltos-new-gen-review-mileage-price-india

automoblies

Kia New-Gen Seltos (2026): Launch Date, Hybrid/Petrol/Diesel Engine Options, Mileage, Features, Safety, Colours, Sunroof/ADAS, Booking & On-Road Details

When Kia first launched the Seltos in India, it didn’t just enter the market; it kicked the door down. It taught us that “premium” doesn’t have to mean “expensive European car.” Now, the New-Gen Kia Seltos (technically a massive facelift) is here to reclaim its throne from the Hyundai Creta.

Is it just a cosmetic job? Absolutely not. With a new 160 BHP Turbo engine, Level 2 ADAS, and a panoramic sunroof, Kia has thrown the kitchen sink at this car.

The Price: It starts at an aggressive ₹10.99 Lakh (Ex-showroom) for the base HTE, but the one you actually want—the top-spec GTX+ or X-Line—will set you back nearly ₹20.30 Lakh (Ex-showroom). That puts it deep into XUV700 territory. Is it worth it? I drove the GTX+ Turbo DCT for 500 km to find out.

**A cinematic front-angle shot of the New Kia Seltos in Pewter Olive color being driven on a scenic Indian highway.**

1. QUICK SPECS TABLE (Key Highlights)

Parameter	Specification
Engine Options	1.5L NA Petrol \| 1.5L Turbo Petrol \| 1.5L Diesel
Power (Turbo)	160 BHP @ 5500 rpm (Segment Best)
Torque (Turbo)	253 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm
Transmission	6MT, IVT (CVT), 7DCT, 6AT
Boot Space	433 Litres
Ground Clearance	190 mm
Fuel Tank	50 Litres

2. EXTERIOR DESIGN & ROAD PRESENCE

The old Seltos was handsome; the new one is aggressive.

The Face: The “Digital Tiger Nose” grille is wider, flanking new “Star Map” LED DRLs that cut into the bumper. It looks significantly wider in the rear-view mirror.
The Wheels: The 18-inch crystal-cut alloy wheels (on GTX+/X-Line) are arguably the best-looking stock rims in the mass market segment.
The Rear: The connected tail lamps with the sequential “Audi-style” indicators give it a very upmarket feel at night.
The Stance: It retains the upright SUV posture but looks more muscular. The new ‘Pewter Olive’ and ‘Matte Graphite’ colors are absolute head-turners.

Side profile view of Kia Seltos New-Gen parked on a clean asphalt road.

3. INTERIOR, COMFORT & FEATURES

Step inside, and the Seltos humiliates some cars costing twice as much.

The Dashboard: The highlight is the Dual 10.25-inch Panoramic Display (one for the cluster, one for infotainment). It’s crisp, responsive, and looks integrated, unlike the iPad-stuck-on-dash look of some rivals.
Cabin Feel: The interior quality is top-notch. Soft-touch materials are used generously. The “Sage Green” interior on the X-Line is polarizing—you either love it or hate it (I personally prefer the Black/White of the GT Line).
Space: The rear seat is spacious enough for two adults and a child. The under-thigh support is decent, but the middle passenger will complain about the slightly firm backrest.
Features:
- Panoramic Sunroof: Finally! It opens wide and changes the cabin ambience.
- Dual-Zone Climate Control: A segment-first when launched. Driver and passenger can fight over temperatures comfortably.
- Ventilated Seats: A lifesaver in Indian summers.

4. ENGINE PERFORMANCE & DRIVING DYNAMICS

I tested the 1.5L Turbo Petrol with 7-Speed DCT. This is the enthusiast’s choice.

City Drive

The engine is refined, but the DCT gearbox has typical characteristics. It can be a bit “jerky” in bumper-to-bumper traffic at crawling speeds. The steering is light, making parking easy, but you need to be gentle on the throttle to avoid sudden surges.