Latest Car News India 2025 – Skoda Octavia RS, Aston Martin DB12S, Toyota FJ Land Cruiser, and More
This week has been buzzing with exciting updates from global and Indian carmakers. From performance machines like the Skoda Octavia RS and Aston Martin DB12S to off-roaders such as the Toyota FJ Land Cruiser and Land Rover Defender Trophy Edition, the past few days have brought plenty of fresh announcements. Add to that Mahindra’s upcoming EV plans, Genesis entering India, and Mini’s latest launch, and you have a week full of big news. Let’s dive straight into the highlights.
Skoda Octavia RS Launched in India
Skoda has finally launched the Octavia RS in India at an ex-showroom price of ₹50 lakh. Limited to just 100 units, all of which are already sold out, the Octavia RS comes powered by a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine producing 265 hp mated to a 7-speed DSG gearbox.
The performance sedan can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds, making it one of the best driver-focused cars under ₹50 lakh. With premium interiors, sharp looks, and exciting dynamics, the Octavia RS is already proving to be a collector’s delight.
Aston Martin DB12S Revealed
Aston Martin has revealed the DB12S, an upgraded performance version of the DB12. While the design changes are subtle, the real difference is under the hood. It now features a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine producing 700 hp and 800 Nm of torque, up from the standard model.
The DB12S can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds. New aero elements such as a front splitter, bonnet louvers, ducktail spoiler, and a louder exhaust make this supercar even more aggressive.
Toyota FJ Land Cruiser (Mini Land Cruiser)
Toyota has officially revealed the FJ Land Cruiser, often called the “Mini Land Cruiser.” Built on the IMV platform that also underpins the Fortuner and Hilux, the FJ focuses heavily on off-road ability.
It is powered by a 2.7-litre four-cylinder petrol engine delivering 163 hp and comes with 4WD as standard. Thanks to its smaller size, the FJ offers improved approach and departure angles, better wheel articulation, and tighter turning radius compared to the regular Land Cruiser. Globally, it rivals the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco, though chances of an India launch remain slim.
Land Rover Defender Trophy Edition
Land Rover has launched a special Defender Trophy Edition in India at ₹1.3 crore ex-showroom. This variant comes with exclusive cosmetic upgrades and off-road accessories.
Highlights include a dual-tone paint theme (Sand Glow Yellow with Piano Black), gloss-black 20-inch rims, all-terrain tyres, and unique cladding details. Under the hood, it carries a 3.0-litre inline-six diesel engine producing 350 hp and 700 Nm, paired with AWD for extreme off-road conditions.
Mercedes G-Wagon G450D in India
Mercedes-Benz has introduced the G450D in India at ₹2.9 crore ex-showroom. While it looks nearly identical to the G63, this diesel-powered version uses a 3.0-litre inline-six diesel engine producing 367 hp and 750 Nm.
Although mechanically similar to the Defender, the G-Wagon demands almost double the price, appealing to those who value the legendary Mercedes G-Class status.
Mahindra XUV 7e – Upcoming Electric SUV
Mahindra is preparing to launch the XUV 7e, an electric version of the XUV700. Expected by early 2026, the SUV will sit on Mahindra’s new INGLO EV platform and feature an all-wheel-drive system to directly compete with the Tata Harrier EV.
While final power figures aren’t out yet, Mahindra promises higher range, performance, and space compared to its existing EVs. The XUV 7e will also be a seven-seater, making it a family-friendly EV option.
Genesis to Enter Indian Market
Genesis, Hyundai’s luxury arm (similar to Toyota’s Lexus), has confirmed its entry into India. The brand plans to locally assemble cars here, which should help with competitive pricing.
Its debut models will likely be the GV80 SUV and GV70 SUV, both offered with multiple turbo-petrol engines and AWD as standard. Genesis will later expand with sedans like the G70, G80, and G90.
Jeep Compass Track Edition in India
Jeep has launched the Compass Track Edition at ₹26.78 lakh ex-showroom. However, unlike its name suggests, this is mainly a cosmetic upgrade with no mechanical changes.
It gets bonnet decals, Track Edition badging, new 18-inch alloys, and updated interior upholstery. Mechanically, it remains identical to the standard Compass.
Toyota Hyryder “Aero Edition”
Toyota has launched a special Hyryder Aero Edition, priced ₹32,000 higher than the standard variant. It adds a company-fitted styling kit that includes a sportier front splitter, rear spoiler, and side skirts, giving the SUV a sportier look.
Mini Countryman JCW Launched in India
Mini has introduced the Countryman JCW in India at ₹64.9 lakh ex-showroom. Under the hood is a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine producing 300 hp and 400 Nm, paired with a 7-speed DCT gearbox.
The performance-oriented crossover can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds and comes with AWD. It retains Mini’s signature design language with premium interiors and sporty appeal.
