Auto wrap this week: New Kia Seltos, Kawasaki Z650RS and Kawasaki Vulcan S launched

As 2026 gets underway, the automobile sector is buzzing this week with new bike and car launches. Along with other eagerly awaited SUV launches like the Mahindra XUV 7XO and future smaller models, highlights include the all-new Kia Seltos, which will join the Indian market with a revamped appearance and tech-rich amenities.The premium Ducati XDiavel V4, a high-performance sport-cruiser, has also been introduced in India. Kawasaki has introduced the updated 2026 Z650RS, which is priced at about ₹7.83 lakh.

New Kia Seltos
Kia has introduced the brand-new 2026 Seltos in India, which starts at ₹10.99 lakh (ex-showroom) and goes up to about ₹19.99 lakh for premium trims. The new Seltos has bigger proportions, a tech-rich interior with a dual-screen arrangement, and contemporary convenience and safety features. Its powertrain options, which include a variety of petrol and diesel engines with manual, CVT, DCT, and automatic options, set it apart from competitors like the Creta and Victoris.Hyundai Prime Taxi

Hyundai Motor India Ltd. has joined the commercial mobility market with the introduction of its Prime Taxi series. The Prime HB (hatchback) and Prime SD (sedan) models have been designed for fleet owners and taxi operators. These vehicles provide low operating expenses and good fuel economy. Prime HB and Prime SD (ex-showroom) start at about ₹5.99 lakh and ₹6.89 lakh, respectively, with reservations available at Hyundai dealerships for a minimal ₹5,000.
2026 Kawasaki Z650RSThe 2026 Kawasaki Z650RS was launched in India for an ex-showroom price of ₹7.83 lakh. It is a neo-retro vehicle with a twin-cylinder engine and a traditional round LED headlamp that combines current technology with traditional features. It also has the well-known 649 cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, which is now E20 compatible. It has a 6-speed transmission for daily rideability and a small torque drop.

2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S

With an ex-showroom price of ₹8.13 lakh, the 2026 Kawasaki Vulcan S was launched in India. Its 649-cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, which is now modified to operate on E20 gasoline and produces about 61 PS and 61 Nm, is retained, along with its comfortable cruiser ergonomics. The bike also has a new Metallic Flat Spark Black colour and a traditional cruiser posture with ergonomics

2026 Kawasaki Ninja 1100SX

The 2026 Kawasaki Ninja 1100SX, which now features a new black and gold colour scheme, was launched in India at its original price of ₹14.42 lakh (ex-showroom). It is a sport-tourer with a 1,099-cc liquid-cooled inline-four engine that produces 136 horsepower and 113 Nm of torque in the mid-range. The model retains its electronics and touring-friendly features, including a TFT display, cruise control, traction control, and many riding modes.

Ducati XDiavel V4

The Ducati XDiavel V4, which combines high performance and cruiser comfort, was launched in India at a starting price of around ₹30.89 lakh (ex-showroom). With a 1,158-cc V4 Granturismo engine producing about 168 horsepower and 126 Nm, it can go from 0 to 100 km/h in less than three seconds. The bike has high-end technology, including a 6.9-inch TFT display, many riding modes, and advanced electronics, all encased in a chic modern cruiser appearance.