Auto wrap this week: Mahindra XEV 9S, Mahindra BE 6 Formula E SUVs and Royal Enfield bikes launched

The automobile spotlight is shining this week on some significant launches in India and other countries. Targeting the expanding electric-SUV market, the Mahindra BE 6 Formula E Edition and the 7-seater Mahindra XEV 9S both made their debuts this week. On two wheels, the upgraded Hero Xtreme 160R 4V with cruise control made its debut on Indian roads.The latest batch of releases, which range from fast and useful bikes to electric SUVs, demonstrates how varied and vibrant the automotive industry is today.

Mahindra XEV 9S
With a starting price of ₹19.95 lakh (ex-showroom), the Mahindra XEV 9S was launched in India. Built from the ground up using the INGLO architecture, the seven-seater SUV is said to be India’s first genuine electric origin seven-seater SUV. Three battery pack configurations are available for the Mahindra XEV 9S: 59 kWh, 70 kWh, and 79 kWh.Mahindra BE 6 Formula E Edition

Mahindra has introduced the brand-new limited-edition BE 6, Mahindra BE 6 Formula E, in India. The Mahindra BE 6 Formula E Edition leaves a lasting impression with its brand-new iconic front bumper with circular projector headlights, gloss black bezels, and dramatic Firestorm Orange highlights. There are two versions available: the Mahindra BE 6 Formula E FE2, which costs ₹23.69 lakh (ex-showroom), and the FE3, which costs ₹24.49 lakh (ex-showroom).

Tata Sierra

At a starting price of ₹11.49 lakh (ex-showroom), Tata Motors has officially launched the Sierra SUV in India. In addition to the launch, Tata added several segment-first innovations to the Sierra, making it more appealing in the competitive SUV market. The model is a unique option for customers since it claims to combine cutting-edge technology, comfort, and contemporary style.

Land Rover Defender Dakar D7X-R

As part of a comprehensive W2RC campaign, Land Rover recently unveiled the Defender Dakar D7XR, a rally-ready SUV that will make its premiere at the 2026 Dakar Rally in January. Based on the Defender Octa, the rally-ready Defender is designed to participate in the W2RC’s ‘Stock’ class. Defender Rally is scheduled to make its debut at the 2026 Dakar Rally and has already completed more than 6,000 km of off-road testing with the Dakar D7X-R prototype.

Ducati Streetfighter V2 and V2 S

Italian motorcycle manufacturer Ducati has launched the Streetfighter V2 and the V2 S in India. The new 890 cc, 90-degree V2 engine that powers the 2025 Ducati Streetfighter V2 complies with the Euro5+ specification. With a 6-axis IMU for accurate control and safety, the Streetfighter V2 is equipped with cutting-edge electronics. The motorbike starts at ₹17.50 lakh (ex-showroom).

Hero Xtreme 160R 4V Cruise Control Variant

Hero MotoCorp revealed the cost of the new Xtreme 160R 4V model after releasing the images of the updated Hero Xtreme 160R. The upgraded Hero Xtreme 160R 4V now has a ride-by-wire throttle system and cruise control. This new model is priced at ₹1,34,100, which is around ₹4,500 more than the basic model. It has a number of additional features.

Ather Rizta

Ather Energy has expanded its product portfolio in its second overseas market by introducing the Rizta electric scooter in Sri Lanka. The unveiling took place during the 2025 Colombo Motor Show, almost a year after the EV maker first entered the market. The Rizta, which is aimed at families, has a large 34-litre under-seat storage area and a spacious floorboard layout.

Royal Enfield Meteor 350 special edition

With the introduction of the ‘Sundowner Orange’ limited edition, Royal Enfield has increased the number of Meteor 350 bikes in its line-up. The Special Edition motorbike has a distinctive paint job to start. The bike, which costs ₹2.18 lakh (ex-showroom), was introduced at the current Motoverse 2025 in Goa. With this price tag, it is ₹27,649 more costly than the nation’s standard motorbike.

Royal Enfield Himalayan Mana Black

At a starting price of ₹3.37 lakh (ex-showroom), Royal Enfield recently launched the Himalayan Mana Black Edition to the Indian market. Along with many other Himalayan 450 versions, the limited-edition model debuted at EICMA 2025 and offers distinctive off-road features as a differentiator. The motorbike costs ₹17,000 more than the standard model with this price tag.