The Indian automobile industry has experienced a remarkable start to this year, driven by the excitement of Auto Expo 2025 in January and an impressive array of new car launches in February. As we approach the end of March, marking the close of the inaugural quarter of 2025, we can anticipate even more additions to our market in terms of cars and SUVs. This momentum presents a unique opportunity for consumers and stakeholders alike to engage with an ever-evolving automotive landscape that promises innovation and choices like never before.
Volvo XC90 facelift
The Volvo XC90 SUV is long overdue for an update, having been on the market in India since 2016. Last year, the Swedish automaker introduced a facelift that brings stunning new design elements influenced by the EX90 electric SUV. This includes a sleek revised grille with diagonal slats, modernized headlights, refreshed bumpers, stylish darker tail-lamps, and eye-catching new alloy wheels.
Inside, the upgraded XC90 boasts an impressive 11.2-inch Google-based touchscreen infotainment system equipped with over-the-air updates for seamless performance. While we expect the powertrain to remain consistent with its predecessor—a robust 2.0-litre turbo-petrol mild-hybrid engine delivering 250hp and 360Nm of torque through an efficient 8-speed automatic gearbox to all four wheels—the driving experience will still be top-notch.
Pricing details are yet to be finalized; however, anticipate that the Volvo XC90 facelift will come at a premium price point as it takes aim at formidable competitors like the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, and Audi Q7. Now is the perfect time to elevate your driving experience with this refined luxury SUV from Volvo.
Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series
The Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series, which first captured the world’s attention last year, is set to make its grand entrance in India next month. This luxury roadster elevates the already impressive Mercedes-Benz SL, and it’s being hailed as the sportiest Maybach model ever produced.
Featuring Maybach’s signature dual-tone paint job, along with a striking new grille adorned with vertical slats and stylish multi-spoke wheels, this vehicle not only looks stunning but also exemplifies luxury at its finest. Inside, you’ll find plush white Nappa leather seats and a pristine dashboard complemented by a satin silver steering wheel—creating an atmosphere of sophistication that’s hard to match. Plus, it boasts a quieter exhaust system compared to the standard SL Roadster.
But don’t let all that luxury fool you; beneath the surface lies power. The Maybach SL 680 is equipped with a formidable 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine that cranks out an impressive 585hp and 800Nm of torque—all sent to all four wheels through a seamless 9-speed automatic transmission. This powerhouse allows for exhilarating acceleration from 0-100kph in just 4.1 seconds.
While the exact price for India hasn’t been revealed yet, we can anticipate it will be higher than the SL 55 Roadster’s Rs 2.35 crore (ex-showroom) price tag—making it an investment worth considering for any serious automotive enthusiast or luxury seeker looking to elevate their driving experience dramatically.
Maruti Suzuki e Vitara
Maruti Suzuki is set to make a significant impact on the Indian EV market with the launch of the e Vitara this March. This electric vehicle not only showcases an impressive design, reflecting the bold styling of its eVX concept from 2023, but it also packs a punch with features that will elevate any driving experience. The e Vitara stands tall with its upright stance, sleek LED headlights, and robust cladding, accompanied by eye-catching 18-inch wheels and an LED light bar dominating its rear.
Step inside the e Vitara’s cabin, and you’ll immediately notice a more premium feel compared to other Maruti Suzuki models in India. The top-of-the-line variant boasts luxurious features like a stunning 10.25-inch floating infotainment touchscreen and a fully digital 10.1-inch instrument cluster that keeps you connected effortlessly through wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Imagine cruising under a fixed panoramic sunroof while enjoying ventilated front seats designed for maximum comfort!
Safety is paramount in this SUV—equipped with seven airbags, rear disc brakes for superior stopping power, advanced blind-spot monitoring technology, Level 2 ADAS capabilities for added driver assistance, a comprehensive 360-degree camera system for unparalleled visibility around your vehicle, plus an electronic parking brake with auto-hold function. To top it all off, two state-of-the-art LFP battery packs will be available to ensure you have reliable range options at your fingertips.