From BMW’s plug-in hybrid M5 flexing its monstrous might to Royal Enfield sprinkling a dash of Feni on its Classic 350, the announcements kept coming. Meanwhile, Max Verstappen added another trophy to his overcrowded cabinet, Mahindra got serious about EVs, and Ola made sure the neighbourhood rides electric. Here’s the full breakdown:
Auto Highlights of the Week: Honda Activa E Launched, Mahindra BE 6e and XEV 9e Launched, Bottas And Ricciardo might have a seat in 2025
BMW M2 Launched at ₹1.03 Crore
BMW’s pocket rocket is back and better than ever — the 2025 M2. Starting at Rs 1.03 crore, it now packs a 3.0-litre straight-six engine that churns out 486.72 PS (+50 PS) and 600Nm of torque (with the manual gearbox, which drops to 550Nm). And yes, before you ask, the M2 is still rocking that iconic 6-speed manual transmission, with an 8-speed automatic. But that’s not all — the M2’s interior has received some updates, and the colour palette has expanded to include fresh shades like Portimao Blue, Fire Red, Sao Paulo Yellow, and Skyscraper Grey.
BMW M5 Launched at ₹1.99 Crore
Leave it to BMW to redefine the luxury sedan. The 2024 M5 isn’t your average executive car—it’s a 730PS, 1,067Nm supercar pairing a twin-turbo V8 with an electric motor. It rockets from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds while offering an electric-only range of 70 km. It’s a wolf in wolf’s clothing, priced at ₹1.99 crore.
Royal Enfield Scram 440 Unveiled
Coming in hot this January, Royal Enfield’s Scram 440 is set to tackle city streets and (slightly) rugged roads. Beneath its scrambler styling lies a bored-out 440cc engine delivering 37.5PS and 38Nm of torque. It’s vintage, versatile, and dapper with its dual-tone tank and spoked wheels.
Verstappen Bags His Fourth Title
The Dutchman clinched the 2024 F1 championship with races to spare, cementing his dominance. But the real drama unfolded in Las Vegas, where George Russell secured a surprise victory, giving Mercedes a reason to celebrate. The fight for the constructor’s championship, however, remains open until the final race.
BMW F 900 XR and F 900 R Unveiled
BMW is diversifying beyond sedans with its updated F 900 XR and F 900 R motorcycles for 2025. Both feature an 895cc engine producing 106PS and 91Nm of torque. The XR caters to touring enthusiasts, while the R targets city riders.
Ola S1 Z and Gig Scooters Launched
The S1 Z starts at ₹59,999 with a 110km range, while the ₹39,999 Gig is a compact urban commuter offering 60km on a charge. They’re not Teslas on two wheels, but at these prices, they’re undeniably tempting.
Mahindra BE 6e and XEV 9e Launched
Mahindra is stepping up its EV game with two electric SUVs: the BE 6e (₹18.90 lakh) and the XEV 9e (₹21.90 lakh). The BE 6e boasts a 550km range, a 77kWh battery, and futuristic aesthetics, while the XEV 9e combines a premium feel with urban utility.
Audi Q7 Facelift Launched
The refreshed Audi Q7, priced at ₹88.66 lakh, keeps itself relevant in the luxury SUV market with a sharper grille, matrix LED headlights, and tech-laden interiors featuring Virtual Cockpit and premium upholstery.
Honda Goes Green with Activa E and QC1
Honda’s electric ambitions are here with the Activa E and QC1 scooters. The Activa E promises a practical 102km range and swappable battery tech, while the QC1 is a portable, fast-charging option with a range of 80km and a top speed of 50km/h. Both are expected to launch in January, followed by deliveries in February.
Daniel Ricciardo Might Return To F1 With Cadillac
The F1 grid is expanding, and Cadillac is set to debut in 2026 as the 11th team. Backed by TWG Global, the project includes plans for an in-house power unit post-2028. For now, Ferrari engines might do the heavy lifting. Adding intrigue, Daniel Ricciardo and Valtteri Bottas are rumoured to take the driver’s seats.
