VR Tech Times

Launched in 2023, the seventh-generation BMW 7 Series and i7 are set to receive a facelift on September 11. The updated versions were unveiled internationally in April 2026 and feature revised exterior styling, a significantly updated cabin with Neue Klasse-inspired elements, and upgrades to both combustion and electric powertrains. Here’s everything you need to know about the new BMW 7 Series and i7 ahead of their launch tomorrow. 1. What are the expected prices of the BMW 7 Series, i7 facelifts? Expected to have a significant hike over the outgoing model’s prices International-spec model has been used for representative purposes only.  The outgoing BMW 7 Series was priced at Rs 1.85 crore (ex-showroom) for both the petrol and diesel variants, while the i7 was priced between Rs 2.10 crore and Rs 2.58 crore. Owing to the updated styling, additional technology and powertrain changes, BMW is expected to increase the prices of both models by a considerable margin. 2. What powertrai...

Maruti Suzuki is offering discounts on the Victoris, Swift, Wagon R, Alto K10, Celerio, S-Presso and Eeco in September 2026. The highest benefits this month are available on the Victoris strong hybrid, at up to Rs 1.35 lakh, while its petrol and CNG variants get benefits of up to Rs 85,000. These offers comprise cash discounts, exchange or scrappage bonuses, loyalty benefits, additional discounts and institutional discounts, depending on the variant. Note : These offers are applicable until September 30 and may vary by city, dealership and stock availability. Please check with your nearest Maruti Arena dealership for the exact discounts. Maruti Victoris discounts in September 2026 Up to Rs 1.35 lakh off The Victoris strong hybrid gets benefits of up to Rs 1.35 lakh. These include a Rs 20,000 cash discount, exchange benefits of up to Rs 50,000, an additional discount of up to Rs 35,000, a Rs 30,000 loyalty benefit and a Rs 10,000 institutional discount. Customers opting for scrappage ...

The Suzuki SV650 is set for a significant update for 2027, confirmed via a California Air Resources Board (CARB) certification. The update brings with it a new version of the 645cc V-twin engine that debuted on the SV-7GX earlier this year, while also signalling the SV650's return to European markets, where the current model had been discontinued due to Euro5+ regulations. 2027 Suzuki SV650 confirmed via CARB certification Will share the updated 645cc V-twin engine with the SV-7GX Expected to return to European markets; EICMA reveal anticipated in November 2027 Suzuki SV650: What the certification reveals Ride-by-wire, traction control and a quickshifter expected alongside the new engine Reports note that the CARB filing identifies the new model with the code SV650RQM7, where the M7 is understood to indicate a 2027 model year, while the RQ designation has been used for Suzuki street bikes. Since the SV650 is being added to the SV-7GX's existing certification, it will share the...

Skoda Auto Volkswagen India has signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding with the JSW Group to explore a strategic partnership in India. In an official statement shared with Autocar Professional , our sister publication, a Skoda Auto Volkswagen India spokesperson said the two-party partnership would be based on joint control, with clearly defined roles and mechanisms for swift and effective decision-making. from Autocar India https://ift.tt/Zo1EI36

The Sorento is Kia’s first hybrid car to hit the Indian market. A few weeks prior, MG Motor India also launched its first hybrid car, the Hector Tomahawk PHEV . The Sorento is a strong hybrid, meaning it has a relatively small battery pack and isn’t designed for extended periods of pure-electric driving. On the other hand, the Hector Tomahawk PHEV is a plug-in hybrid, which means it gets a much larger battery that delivers a usable all-electric range. If you’re looking to purchase a 7-seater hybrid SUV under the Rs 30 lakh price point (ex-showroom), the Sorento hybrid’s base variant (HTE) and the Hector Tomahawk PHEV’s top-spec variant are both within your reach. We examined their spec sheets closely to find out which of them is more value-for-money. Kia Sorento hybrid base-spec vs MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV top-spec: Dimensions Sorento is larger overall, while Hector Tomahawk PHEV has a bigger boot   Sorento Hybrid HTE Hector Tomahawk PHEV Essence Length (mm) 4,815 4,745 Width (mm)...

Maruti Suzuki recently updated the Baleno with new features, cosmetic changes and, most significantly, a new 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine. It is available with petrol and CNG powertrains, with manual and AMT gearbox options on offer, and is priced from Rs 6.10 lakh onwards. But does it have what it takes to be the right premium hatchback for you? Here are three reasons to consider the Baleno and two reasons why you may want to look elsewhere. Pros 1. Spacious and well-equipped cabin The Baleno has a spacious cabin, particularly at the rear, with ample headroom and legroom for tall passengers. The seats offer good cushioning and under-thigh support, while rear passengers get dedicated AC vents and USB charging ports. The 318-litre boot is useful for everyday needs, although the loading lip is high. The equipment list is also a highlight, with the Baleno being the only in its segment to offer Level 2 ADAS and ventilated front seats. A head-up display is another useful addition...

One of the biggest drawbacks of single-cylinder engines, especially higher displacement ones is widely agreed to be the vibrations. Until now, companies have mostly stuck to using counter balancer shafts as the preferred way to keep them under check but with QJMotor’s latest patent in the US, we might just have a more interesting and, potentially, more affordable way to deal with them. Uses a smaller ‘dummy’ cylinder as a counterweight More cost-effective than gear operated counter balancer shafts Single-cylinder engine with a V-Twin-like configuration A dummy piston in the second cylinder only cancels out vibrations Technically speaking, the patent has been filed by QJMotor’s parent firm, Geely Auto Group, and it demonstrates an innovative approach to controlling engine vibrations in a single-cylinder mill. The patent drawing shows an engine crankcase with two cylinder bore holes at an 80 degree angle, visually resembling a V-twin engine. In the patent images, the larger bore on the ...

The Maruti Suzuki Baleno is not just the bestselling premium hatchback but among India's bestselling cars. The updated model, then, is a big deal. We tell you all that's changed and how it all comes together. from Autocar India https://ift.tt/g4DiSRc

The Kia Sorento is now on sale in India as the Korean carmaker’s flagship ICE-powered SUV. It contends in the three-row premium SUV segment, directly rivalling the likes of the monocoque-based Skoda Kodiaq, Volkswagen Tayron, and Jeep Meridian. Additionally, the Sorento’s pricing overlaps with that of the ladder-frame-based Toyota Fortuner , which is one of the most popular SUVs in the Rs 30 lakh-50 lakh price bracket. While the Fortuner isn’t as up-to-date or premium as the Sorento is, the Toyota SUV has accrued a reputation for toughness, reliability, and off-road prowess. Below, we’ve put together the top-spec diesel variants of the Sorento and Fortuner – the HTX(A) and 4x4 AT NeoDrive 48V, respectively – to see which one delivers more bang for your buck. Kia Sorento vs Toyota Fortuner: Top-spec variant dimensions Sorento is longer and wider, while Fortuner is taller   Sorento HTX(A) Fortuner 4x4 AT NeoDrive 48V Length (mm) 4,815 4,795 Width (mm) 1,900 1,855 Height (mm) 1,785 ...