July Weekly Auto News: New Launches & Major Announcements in 3rd Week

The third week of July remained busy for the Indian automotive market, with several manufacturers bringing fresh updates across different segments. Renault introduced a new edition of the Duster, while Lexus and Ferrari expanded their premium lineups with new models. Along with these launches, automakers also shared details about upcoming vehicles and future plans. 

• Duster Adventure Edition launched with styling updates.
• Mercedes, Maruti, Kia, and Toyota announced upcoming updates.
• EVs, hybrids, and new technology remained in focus.

New Car Launches in July 2026

Several manufacturers introduced new models and special editions during the Week, ranging from mainstream SUVs to premium luxury sedans and high-performance sports cars. Here's a quick look at the latest vehicle launches.

Renault Launches Duster Adventure Edition

Renault has launched the Duster Adventure Edition in India as a new special edition of its popular SUV. Based on the Techno variant, it is priced from Rs. 12.99 lakh (ex-showroom) and continues with the existing 1.0-litre and 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine options, with manual and automatic transmission choices. According to Renault India, the special edition celebrates the SUV’s adventure-focused appeal with exclusive styling updates.

The Adventure Edition mainly adds new styling elements while keeping the features and performance unchanged. Renault has also priced it Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 50,000 lower than the comparable Techno variants.

Major Changes in the Adventure Edition

• New Adventure-themed decals and exterior styling.
• Adventure-branded floor mats and body embellishers.
• Same engines, features, and mechanical setup.
• Lower price than equivalent Techno variants.

Lexus Launches New ES 350h Hybrid

Luxury carmaker Lexus expanded its India portfolio on July 15 with the launch of the Lexus ES 350h Hybrid. The new hybrid sedan is priced from Rs. 66.10 lakh (ex-showroom) and is available in Exquisite and Luxury variants. It also marks the continuation of Lexus' local assembly operations in India, with bookings now open.

The latest ES 350h is built on the TNGA GA-K platform and is powered by a 2.5-litre strong-hybrid petrol engine paired with an e-CVT gearbox. Along with a fresh exterior design, the sedan offers a more spacious cabin and upgraded technology while taking on rivals such as the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, BMW 5 Series, and Audi A6.

What the New ES 350h Brings

• New generation based on the TNGA GA-K platform.
• Longer wheelbase for increased rear-seat space.
• Redesigned exterior with new LED lighting.
• 14-inch touchscreen and updated digital cockpit.
• Hybrid joins the existing ES 500e electric sedan in the lineup.

Ferrari Amalfi Spider Debuts in India
 

On July 17, Ferrari launched the Amalfi Spider in India at a starting price of Rs. 4.6 crore (ex-showroom). The new convertible grand tourer joined Ferrari's India lineup just four months after its global debut and is priced Rs. 52 lakh higher than the Amalfi coupe. Orders for the model have also opened across Ferrari dealerships.

The Amalfi Spider is powered by a 3.9-litre twin-turbo V8 engine that produces 640 hp and 760 Nm, paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. It blends Ferrari's performance with open-top driving, offering a claimed 0-100 kmph time of 3.3 seconds and a top speed of 320 kmph.

Key Highlights of the Ferrari Amalfi Spider 

• Five-layer fabric roof opens in 13.5 seconds.
• The convertible roof can be operated at speeds of up to 60 kmph.
• Features a 2+2 cabin with premium interior finishes.
• Gets three digital displays and wireless smartphone connectivity.
• Equipped with ADAS and adaptive cruise control.

Major Announcements in July

Along with new vehicle launches, several carmakers also shared important updates during the week. These included confirmed launch dates, new model unveilings, and the start of bookings for upcoming vehicles.

Mercedes-AMG E 53 Plug-in Hybrid India Launch Confirmed

Mercedes-Benz has confirmed that the AMG E 53 Hybrid launch will take place in India on July 23. Announced on July 14, the performance sedan marks the return of the E 53 nameplate with a plug-in hybrid powertrain, combining everyday electric driving with AMG E 53 performance. It is expected to strengthen Mercedes-Benz's electrified performance lineup in India.

Key Highlights of the AMG E 53 Hybrid

• Uses a 9-speed automatic transmission with an integrated electric motor.
• Can accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph in 3.8 seconds.
• Features an 11mm wider front track and active rear-axle steering.
• Gets an illuminated AMG grille, quad exhausts, and flared wheel arches.
• Equipped with AMG sport seats and dedicated MBUX performance displays.

Maruti Suzuki Opens Bookings for Updated Brezza Facelift

Maruti Suzuki has opened pre-launch bookings for the updated Brezza facelift ahead of its July 24 launch. Customers can now reserve the compact SUV by paying a token amount of Rs. 11,000 through Arena dealerships and the company's official website. According to Autocar India, the refreshed Brezza is expected to receive styling changes, new technology, and an expanded engine lineup. 

Key Highlights of the Brezza Facelift

• Expected to get a 1.0-litre Boosterjet turbo-petrol engine.
• Existing 1.5-litre petrol and CNG powertrains will continue.
• Likely to feature a 10.1-inch touchscreen and ventilated front seats.
• Expected to offer Level 2 ADAS and front parking sensors.
• Gets revised bumpers, updated lighting, and new alloy wheels.

Kia Syros EV Unveiled With Two Battery Pack Options

Kia has taken the wraps off the Syros EV, adding a new electric SUV to its growing EV lineup. The model will be offered in Standard and X Line editions with 42 kWh and 51.4 kWh battery pack options, delivering a claimed driving range of up to 526 km. Kia has also announced a lifetime warranty for both NMC battery packs.Explore the Kia syros EV details

Key Updates on the Kia Syros EV

• Available with 42 kWh and 51.4 kWh battery packs.
• Claimed driving range of up to 526 km.
• Supports 100 kW DC fast charging and an 11 kW AC charger.
• X Line edition gets Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality and exclusive colour options.
• Features Level 2 ADAS, front and rear dashcams, and a 16-litre frunk.

Next-Generation Toyota Hilux Teased

Toyota has shared the first official teaser of the next-generation Hilux, confirming its India debut on July 28. According to Autocar India, the upcoming pickup truck will continue with the body-on-frame IMV platform while receiving updated styling and cabin changes. It will continue to rival the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross in the lifestyle pickup segment.

What to Expect from the Next-Gen Hilux

• New front design with a honeycomb grille and bold TOYOTA lettering.
• Updated LED headlamps with integrated daytime running lights.
• Dual 12.3-inch displays for the instrument cluster and infotainment.
• Expected to continue with the 2.8-litre diesel engine.
• India-spec model will be offered in the Double Cab configuration only.

Upcoming Launches and Industry Trends 

The coming months are expected to bring several new launches and updates across different segments in India. Automakers are preparing new SUVs, electric vehicles, and hybrid models with updated designs, advanced features, and improved technology.

From upcoming premium cars to refreshed mass-market models, buyers can expect more options as brands continue to expand their lineups. The focus will remain on electrification, connected features, and improved driving experiences.

FAQs

What changes does the Renault Duster Adventure Edition get?
The special edition adds Adventure-themed decals, body embellishers, and exclusive floor mats while keeping the same engine and features.

What is the price of the Lexus ES 350h Hybrid?
The Lexus ES 350h Hybrid price starts from Rs. 66.10 lakh (ex-showroom) and is available in Exquisite and Luxury variants.

What engine does the Ferrari Amalfi Spider use?
The Ferrari Amalfi Spider comes with a 3.9-litre twin-turbo V8 engine producing 640 hp and 760 Nm of torque.

What battery options are available with the Kia Syros EV?
The Kia Syros EV will be offered with 42 kWh and 51.4 kWh battery packs, offering a claimed range of up to 526 km.

When will the next-generation Toyota Hilux launch in India?
The next-generation Toyota Hilux is set to make its India debut on July 28, 2026.

Several exciting models were unveiled this week. Explore New Car Launches in July 2026 for a complete list of launches along with their prices.