Auto wrap this week: Tata Safari, Harrier Petrol and Mahindra XUVs launched

This week has seen a number of new vehicle and bike launches that have captured the interest of consumers. Manufacturers are speeding product rollouts, from electric SUVs and next-generation hatchbacks to performance-focused motorbikes with upgraded technology and style.While Tata Safari and Harrier Petrol launched in India, Bengaluru-based Simple Energy has launched the Gen 2 model of Simple One and Simple OneS, along with Simple Ultra. Furthermore, Yamaha Motor India intends to broaden its premium lineup with the introduction of the R2 supersport motorbike and the NMax 155 maxi-scooter in 2026.

Tata Safari, Harrier Petrol
With a new 1.5-litre Hyperion turbo-petrol engine producing up to 170 horsepower and 280 Nm of torque, Tata Motors has formally introduced the petrol-powered Tata Safari and Tata Harrier in India. The Harrier petrol begins at ₹12.89 lakh and the Safari petrol at ₹13.29 lakh (ex-showroom), making them more affordable than their diesel counterparts. Both SUVs feature a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating and a huge touchscreen screen and sophisticated driver-assist systems.Mahindra XUV 3XO EV

Mahindra has introduced the new XUV 3XO EV in India. The base AX5 model is priced at ₹13.89 lakh (ex-showroom), and sales are scheduled to begin on February 23. Powered by a 39.4 kWh battery, the small electric SUV has a stated range of up to ~285 km and is equipped with cutting-edge driver assistance technologies, connected car features, and two 10.25-inch displays. Additionally, the XUV 3XO EV comes in two trim levels – AX5 and AX7L.

Mahindra XUV 7XO

With a starting price of ₹13.66 lakh (ex-showroom), Mahindra has launched the XUV 7XO in India, marketing it as a high-tech update of the well-liked XUV700. The SUV has a striking redesign, a triple-screen infotainment system, and cutting-edge technology, including a 540° camera and Level 2 ADAS to enhance convenience and safety. There are two powertrain options: a 2.0 L turbo-petrol and a 2.2 L diesel.

Tata Punch Facelift

Ahead of its official launch on January 13, Tata Motors has unveiled the updated Tata Punch Facelift, featuring an EV-inspired design and enhanced features. The revamped micro-SUV features redesigned LED lighting, new alloy wheels, a modernised interior with larger displays, and a turbo-petrol engine. Additionally, Tata has improved safety and technological features, such as a 360° camera and digital instrument cluster, making the Punch facelift a more formidable rival in the small SUV market.

Afeela SUV Prototype

Sony Honda Mobility unveiled the Afeela electric SUV prototype at the CES 2026 in Las Vegas, presenting an EV concept packed with technology and a clean, minimalist style. The prototype suggests a potential production SUV with advanced displays, a sensor suite, and infotainment with PlayStation integration. The SUV is expected to go into production for the US market around 2028, reflecting Sony and Honda’s tech-forward EV strategy, while specific specifications and launch date are still awaiting.

Simple One Gen 2

The new Simple One Gen 2 electric scooter from Simple Energy is available in India for about ₹1.40 lakh (ex-showroom). A touchscreen dashboard, traction control, and regenerative braking are a few of the cutting-edge features included in the Gen 2 lineup, which also comes with many battery options with estimated IDC ranges of up to 265 km. This launch further broadens Simple’s lineup alongside models like Simple OneS Gen 2 and Simple Ultra.

Ducati Panigale V4 R

The Ducati Panigale V4 R is one of the priciest bikes on the market in India, with an ex-showroom price of ₹84.99 lakh. This track-focused superbike has MotoGP-inspired aerodynamics for improved performance and a 998 cc Desmosedici Stradale R engine that can produce up to 239 horsepower with optional race components. The Panigale V4 R is a homologation variant with cutting-edge electronics and race-grade hardware.