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Shortly after launching the E85-compliant models of the Hero Splendor+ and HF Deluxe, the brand is now offering a discount of Rs 4,000 on both the models. Bringing the flex-fuel models starting price down to Rs 68,792, valid until July 2026.Hero’s flex models gets discounts worth Rs 4,000The Splendor+ flex currently costs Rs 1,153 more than the E20 modelThe HF Deluxe Flex currently costs Rs 1,650 less than the E20 modelHero Flex-fuel models discounts: What’s new?This offer is valid until July 2026Both models – the Splendor+ and HF Deluxe – get an equal discount of Rs 4,000 bringing the effective ex-showroom price down to Rs 78,710 and 68,792, respectively. This marks a substantial benefit for both motorcycles as they are already priced at the affordable end of the spectrum.At their discounted price, the Splendor+ Flex costs Rs 1,153 more than the E20-compliant Splendor+, whereas the HF Deluxe Flex costs Rs 1,650 less than the comparable E20-compliant HF Deluxe I3S Cast variant. This offer is valid until July 2026 and the motorcycles will initially be available in Delhi and select regions of Maharashtra from July 2026 before being rolled out to other markets across the country.Underpinning both motorcycles is Hero’s long-serving 97.2cc single-cylinder engine, now adapted to run on ethanol blends ranging from E20 to E85. In E85 guise, the engine produces 8.6hp at 8,000rpm and 8.3Nm at 6,000rpm. To support operation on higher ethanol blends, Hero has equipped the motorcycles with revised ECU calibration and upgraded fuel system components, including a new fuel pump and secondary fuel filter. 

Kawasaki India is once again offering sizeable discounts and benefits across select models in its Ninja lineup. The latest round of offers applies to the Ninja 1100 SX, Ninja ZX-6R and Ninja ZX-10R, and has been announced through the company’s official social media channels. The benefits are valid until June 30.ZX-10R effective ex-showroom price now Rs 17.90 lakhNinja 1100 SX gets a complimentary pannier kit or tall windscreenZX-6R offered with a free Öhlins steering damperKawasaki Ninja models offer detailsThe offers are valid until June 30The Ninja ZX-10R receives the largest benefit of the three, with a straight discount of Rs 2.89 lakh. This brings its effective ex-showroom price down to Rs 17.90 lakh, making it one of the most attractively priced litre-class superbikes currently on sale in India.The Ninja 1100 SX, Kawasaki’s sport-touring flagship, is being offered with a choice of two complimentary accessories – either a pannier kit worth Rs 1.25 lakh or a tall windscreen worth Rs 11,050. Of the two, the pannier kit represents significantly better value and also enhances the bike’s touring capabilities. Meanwhile, the middleweight Ninja ZX-6R is available with a complimentary Öhlins steering damper worth Rs 84,000.Kawasaki last offered similar benefits on these models in February this year. At the time, the ZX-10R received a smaller Rs 1.43 lakh discount, while the Ninja 1100 SX was offered with a direct discount of the same amount rather than the accessory package currently being provided.The company has announced the offers through its official social media channels, indicating that they are applicable nationwide. As always, it’s worth checking with your nearest Kawasaki dealership to confirm stock availability and any dealership-level offers that may be available.

Mercedes-Benz has launched the 2026 S-Class in India at a starting price of Rs 2.20 crore (ex-showroom). The German brand’s flagship sedan comes with exterior and interior styling revisions, upgraded on-board tech and, for the first time, a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain. The new S-Class is currently only available in the S 450e guise in India. Bookings have commenced today and deliveries of the 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class are scheduled to commence around Diwali in Q4 2026. S 450e plug-in hybrid (PHEV) develops 435hp and 680NmClaimed electric-only range is up to 115kmGets new ‘Superscreen’, deeper AI integration, upgraded tech features and moreNew Mercedes-Benz S-Class priceVariantPrice (ex-showroom)Launch Edition Exclusive LineRs 2.20 crore Manufaktur Edition AMG Line Rs 2.38 crore The 2026 S-Class price ranges between Rs 2.20 crore and 2.38 crore (ex-showroom). Compared to the previous model that was priced from Rs 1.85 crore, the starting price of new S-Class has gone up by Rs 35 lakh. In India, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class primarily competes against the BMW 7-Series.2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class powertrain specificationsThis is the first S-Class to feature a plug-in hybrid system in IndiaMercedes-Benz has introduced the S 450e plug-in hybrid as the newest member of the S-Class line-up. Under the bonnet is a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six petrol engine, which is paired with a rear-mounted electric motor and a 22kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Combined system output stands at 435hp and 680Nm, with power being sent to the rear wheels via a 9-speed automatic transmission. Mercedes-Benz claims an electric-only range of up to 115km for the new S 450e, while its 0-100kph time is a claimed 5.7 seconds. The brand says the 22kWh battery can be topped up from 10-80 percent in 20mins using a 60kW charger, and overall, it is claimed to return 32.2kmpl (WLTP cycle). The German automaker offers the 2026 S-Class globally in the S 450 4MATIC guise too, where a 3.0-litre turbo-petrol six-cylinder engine is coupled with a 48V mild-hybrid system. This powertrain develops up to 404hp and 500Nm of torque, accelerating from 0-100kph in a claimed 4.9 seconds. This variant is expected to arrive here at a later stage. 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class exteriorThe most notable updates are visible up front and in the lighting signatureWhile the overall silhouette remains unchanged from the pre-facelift model, the 2026 Mercedes S-Class isn’t without its fair share of styling revisions. The front grille is larger than before and now incorporates chrome-garnished three-pointed star elements, with Mercedes also offering an illuminated grille surround. The ‘Digital Light’ LED headlamps feature Mercedes-Benz’s signature three-pointed star graphics. At the rear are new LED tail-lamps that feature dynamic light animations and illuminated three-pointed star motifs, mirroring the design of the front lighting elements.The redesigned front bumper adds to the overall presence of the new S-Class, courtesy of its sizeable air-intakes positioned on either corners. The 2026 S-Class gets new alloy wheel designs and additional standard paint choices, though customers can pick from a catalogue of Manufaktur colours and trims as per their requirements.2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class interiorThe cabin gets a series of design updates and more comfort-oriented tweaksMercedes-Benz has updated the interior of the S-Class for 2026, giving it upgraded digital interfaces and a more technology-heavy layout. Apart from the new dashboard design, there are also updated centre console elements and new trim finishes. Since India only gets the long-wheelbase version of the S-Class, space for rear-seat occupants is generous. The four-seater option comes with the so-called “executive rear seats”, which allows the backrest to be reclined up to 43.5 degrees. All four seats of the 2026 Mercedes S-Class can be had with ventilation, heating and an assortment of massage functions. Mercedes-Benz claims that it has improved cabin insulation to further reduce the noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels in the cabin over the old model. Meanwhile, the extended ambient lighting system of the new S-Class covers multiple areas of this interior – including the dashboard, footrests, door pads, centre console, armrests, cupholders, AC vents and the housing for the rear seats.2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class featuresA lengthy equipment list adds to the luxury quotient of the new S-ClassFor 2026, Mercedes-Benz has given the S-Class its new MBUX ‘Superscreen’ setup. This basically consists of a 14.4-inch OLED touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and another 12.3-inch unit for the front passenger. The screens run the brand’s latest MB.OS operating system, while the MBUX virtual assistant now gets deeper AI integration. The integration of Google Maps in the augmented reality head-up display (AR-HUD) means that navigation instructions and guidance are overlaid in the driver’s line of sight. The MBUX system of the new S-Class also supports over-the-air (OTA) software updates, too. Meanwhile, the 13.1-inch rear-entertainment screens support video streaming, gaming and video conferencing. Some of the other feature highlights of the 2026 S-Class include a high-end Burmester 4D audio system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, connected-car technology and a four-zone automatic climate control system. Safety and driver-assistance technologies include adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, surround-view cameras and multiple airbags (including dedicated seatbelt airbags). The 2026 S-Class gets adaptive air suspension with the ‘E‑Active Body Control’, which the brand claims can automatically adjust the dampers based on surface conditions. There’s also the rear-wheel steering system for improved manoeuvrability.Also readBMW unveils M Concept Neue Klasse at Le Mans

Bovensiepen, the company founded by the family behind Alpina, has revealed the 05 GT, its second model following last year’s BMW M4-based Bovensiepen Zagato. Based on the BMW M5 Touring, the new performance wagon effectively succeeds the Alpina B5 with bespoke styling, chassis upgrades and a power increase over the standard car.Power increased to 801hp and 1,100Nm from 727hp and 1,000Nm in the standard M5 TouringSuspension, wheels and tyres developed specifically for the 05 GTProduction limited to around 100 units annuallyBovensiepen 05 GT: exterior designThe 05 GT receives a redesigned exterior penned by automotive designer Frank Stephenson, whose previous work includes the first-generation modern BMW Mini, Ferrari F430 and McLaren P1. The aim was to tone down the visual aggression of the standard M5 Touring while reducing the visual heft of its flanks.Key changes include new front and rear bumpers, extensively reworked side skirts, a trailing rear spoiler and a stainless-steel front grille featuring Bovensiepen lettering. At the rear, the most obvious clue to the car’s performance is the titanium Akrapovic exhaust system with four tips. The exhaust saves 8kg compared with the standard stainless-steel setup. Unlike the standard M5 Touring’s staggered wheel setup, the 05 GT gets bespoke 21-inch forged wheels all round.Bovensiepen 05 GT: powertrain and chassisPower comes from BMW’s 4.4-litre S68 twin-turbocharged V8 plug-in hybrid powertrain, which Bovensiepen has revised with a new intake system and Akrapovic exhaust. Total system output rises to 801hp and 1,100Nm, up from 727hp and 1,000Nm in the standard M5 Touring. The electric portion of the drivetrain remains unchanged and continues to produce up to 198hp. Electric-only range is also unchanged at around 56km in real-world driving conditions.Bovensiepen claims a 0-100kph time of under 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 306kph. Kerb weight stands at 2,555kg, making the 05 GT around 5kg heavier than the standard M5 Touring.The chassis receives revised adaptive dampers, Eibach springs and new strut-tower braces. Bovensiepen says the changes are aimed at improving ride comfort while retaining the M5’s performance capabilities. Bespoke Pirelli tyres carrying a ‘BOV’ mark complete the package.Bovensiepen 05 GT: Interior Inside, the 05 GT largely retains the M5 Touring’s cabin layout but offers extensive scope for personalisation. Buyers can choose from a wide range of leather, Alcantara, stitching and trim finishes, while handcrafted Lavalina leather upholstery and custom headrest embossing are also available.The labour-intensive nature of this bespoke work will limit production at Bovensiepen’s Buchloe facility in Germany to around 100 cars per year. For now, all units will be based on the Touring bodystyle.First customer deliveries are scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2026. Prices start at €198,900 (around Rs 1.98 crore) before options. 

Prominent private insurer ICICI Lombard has warned that insurance claims related to E20 fuel damage in older, non-compatible vehicles could be rejected. This raises fresh concerns for the millions of Indian motorists who own E10-compliant and lower vehicles, considering E20 is the baseline petrol blend and there are talks of progressing it further.Standard ICICI insurance excludes vehicle damage build-up over timeAdd-on covers do not account for “chemical corrosion from fuel”E20-compliant vehicle owners may be in the same boat if E25 is rolled outICICI says E20 use in non-compliant vehicles can be perceived as “negligence”In a blog post published on June 9, 2026, ICICI stated that insurance claims arising from damage caused by E20 fuel may face scrutiny if the vehicle was not designed to run on the higher ethanol-petrol blend. According to the insurer, using fuel that a vehicle was not engineered to handle could be viewed as “improper use” or “negligence,” possibly leading to claim rejections.Since April 2025, E20 has served as the baseline petrol blend, so motorists cannot purchase E10 even if they wanted to. The only other option is XP100 (pure petrol), which is unfeasible due to limited availability and a much steeper price tag: Rs 160/litre. Therefore, when motorists are effectively forced to use E20, it’s unfair to label them as ‘negligent’.Potential corrosion from E20 is not covered, even in add-ons”The government has confirmed that using E20 fuel does not void your insurance policy. But that is not the same as saying every damage claim linked to E20 will be approved. Standard policies usually exclude consequential damage, which is damage that builds up over time rather than happening in a single incident, like an accident,” said ICICI.The primary risk with using E20 in E10-compliant and lower vehicles is indeed “consequential damage,” as the increased ethanol content can absorb moisture from the air and corrode fuel system components like gaskets, seals, tanks, lines, and more over extended periods of time. Purchasing add-on covers won’t help either, as ICICI mentioned: “Engine protection add-ons offer some coverage, but most are designed for water ingress or oil leakage, not chemical corrosion from fuel.”Substantial portion of cars currently on Indian roads are not E20-compliantICICI’s remarks have incited major concern among motorists who own vehicles not compliant with E20 petrol. The government mandated E20 compliance for new vehicles alongside the BS6 Phase 2 emission norms that went into effect in April 2023. With a compliance window of just over three years, it’s obvious that a huge chunk of vehicles currently plying on Indian roads are not certified for E20. This means they are at risk of consequential damage, and if ICICI will indeed reject such claims, owners of non-E20-compliant vehicles may have little to no recourse in the future.The problem doesn’t end there, either, as the government has repeatedly signalled a forthcoming increase in baseline ethanol blending levels, possibly going up to E25 in the short term. ARAI was recently tasked with evaluating the impact of E25 on E20- and E10-compliant vehicles. Should the baseline blend increase to E25 in the coming months, owners of both E20- and E10-compliant vehicles may find themselves in the same boat.We reached out to ICICI Lombard for a statement, but have yet to receive a response.