First Ever Yamaha YZF-R2 Makes Its Global Debut In India; Unveils The Next Chapter Of The R-Series

* YZF-R2 launched in India at INR 2,30,500 ; Available in 3 variants and 5 exciting colors

* Delivers segment-leading performance with a lightweight chassis

* Features segment first Bi-Directional Quick Shifter

India Yamaha Motor (IYM) Pvt. Ltd. today announced the launch of the all-new globally first YZF-R2 in India, further strengthening the company's iconic R-series portfolio in the country. Priced from INR 2,30,500 (ex-showroom, Delhi), the YZF-R2 underscores Yamaha's commitment to expanding its premium motorcycle lineup and offering products that cater to the evolving aspirations of Indian riders.

The all-new YZF-R2 is Yamaha's first offering in the highly competitive 200cc segment, developed for a new generation of riders seeking pure super sport performance, advanced technology, and everyday versatility. Built on an all-new platform and powered by a newly developed engine made and engineered in Japan with seamless collaboration with its Indian counterparts. the YZF-R2 combines responsive performance, confidence-inspiring handling, and Yamaha's race-bred engineering.

All-New YZF- R2

India's premium motorcycle market continues to evolve, fuelled by rising aspirations, evolving lifestyles, and a growing preference for premium mobility solutions. The 200cc segment has emerged as one of the fastest-growing categories, attracting riders who are looking to step up to higher levels of performance and ownership experience. This shift presents a significant opportunity for Yamaha to strengthen its overall motorcycle business and further expand its presence in one of the country's most promising market segments. Purpose-developed for this evolving category, the YZF-R2 strikes the ideal balance between power, agility, and everyday rideability, making it equally capable on the track, highways and on daily commutes.

The all-new YZF-R2 will be offered in three variants across five distinctive colour options, allowing riders to choose a motorcycle that best suits their riding style and personality. The YZF-R2 base variant will be available in Metallic Black & Dark Bluish Gray, featuring all-black front and rear wheels along with a matte-finished seat for a clean and decisive appearance.

Stepping up, the second variant in YZF-R2 features segment first 3rd generation bi-directional Quick Shifter and is offered in Matte White Pearl & Racing Blue colour options. It also features body coloured alloy wheels, model-specific graphics, and premium material finishes that further accentuate its sporty character.

The range-topping variant, YZF-R2M is available in an exclusive Metallic Gray colour and is designed for riders seeking the ultimate super sport experience. In addition to the Quick Shifter, it features a premium 3D embossed emblem, a faux suede-finished seat, a silver-finished swingarm, and a shot-blasted muffler end cap drawing parallels from the high-gloss finish of Yamaha's flagship R1. The M variant also comes equipped with adjustable front fork, rear shockers, clutch lever and brake lever, offering greater personalization and enhanced riding dynamics.

Across all the variants, the YZF-R2 comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of performance and safety technologies, including 17-inch wheels, Traction Control System (TCS), an Assist & Slipper Clutch, Yamaha Ride Control (YRC) with selectable riding modes, 37 mm upside-down (USD) front forks, and dual-channel ABS as standard.

Race-Inspired Styling

Drawing inspiration from Yamaha's latest global R-series motorcycles, the all-new YZF-R2 features a sharp, aerodynamic design with distinctive super sport styling. Every surface has been sculpted to express speed, agility, and precision, giving the motorcycle a purposeful stance even at a standstill.

The front fascia is defined by a compact bi-functional LED headlight flanked by dual LED position lights, creating a distinctive face that immediately connects the YZF-R2 to Yamaha's iconic R-series lineage. Inspired by the aerodynamic of the R9, the sculpted front fairing and tightly wrapped bodywork have been designed to efficiently managing airflow to enhance high-speed stability. At the rear, a distinctive block-style LED taillight drawing cues from the YZF-R1 and a MotoGP-enthused swingarm reinforcing the motorcycle's premium sporty character and unmistakable Yamaha identity.

All-New Platform Engineered for Agility

Developed on an all-new platform, the YZF-R2 has been engineered to deliver lightweight agility, confidence-inspiring handling, and an engaging ride experience. At its core is a newly developed high-tensile steel tube diamond frame that strikes an ideal balance between rigidity and low weight, contributing to an overall kerb weight of just 149 kg making it lightest in its segment.

Inspired by the chassis dimensions of Yamaha's legendary YZF-R6, the new frame geometry has been optimized to provide natural and intuitive handling across a wide range of rider skill levels and riding conditions. The chassis employs a four-point engine mounting system with an additional mounting point, helping to reduce flex between the frame and engine while improving overall chassis stability, feedback, and cornering performance.

All-New 204cc Engine Built for Performance

Powering the all-new YZF-R2 is a newly developed 204cc, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, single-cylinder, 4-valve, fuel-injected engine, engineered to deliver an engaging blend of performance and everyday rideability. The new powertrain produces segment leading 26.5 PS of power and 19.1 Nm of peak torque, offering strong acceleration, smooth power delivery, and an exhilarating high-revving character. At its core is finger follower rocker arm, valvetrain with Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coating, a technology derived from Yamaha's flagship R1. This innovative system reduces friction and reciprocating mass, contributing to lower valvetrain weight, improved efficiency, enhanced durability, and the responsive, free-revving performance that defines Yamaha's sporting DNA.

Lightweight Chassis and Confidence-Inspiring Suspension

Engineered for agility and control, the YZF-R2 features a lightweight steel frame weighing just 14 kg. The optimized frame construction enhances rigidity while reducing overall weight, contributing to improved handling, sharper cornering, and greater rider confidence.

Complementing the chassis is a premium suspension setup comprising 37 mm upside-down (USD) front forks and a rear monoshock, tuned to deliver excellent road-holding performance across varied riding conditions. Designed to effectively absorb bumps and uneven road surfaces, the suspension offers an ideal balance of chassis stability, precise handling, and ride comfort, ensuring a confident and engaging riding experience on both urban roads and spirited weekend rides.

Smart Connectivity & Riding modes

The YZF-R2 is equipped with a host of advanced technologies designed to enhance convenience, connectivity, and rider engagement. A vibrant 5-inch full-colour TFT display provides clear access to essential ride and navigation information, while the Smart Key System (available on the M variant) offers seamless keyless operation for added convenience. The motorcycle also features three riding modes thanks to Yamaha Ride Control (YRC). YRC offers the riders to choose from Street, Sport and Rain modes allowing riders to tailor the motorcycle's performance to suit different road conditions and riding preferences.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Hajime Aota, Chairman, Yamaha Motor India Group, said: "The launch of the YZF-R2 marks a significant milestone in Yamaha's long-term growth strategy. The YZF-R2 is not an entry into a new segment; it is a motorcycle created for riders who are committed to the spirit of Yamaha R-series. Combining the authentic R-series DNA with lightweight performance and excellent fuel efficiency, it offers an exciting and accessible gateway to our supersport world. Inspired by the global R-Series flagship motorcycles and built on an all-new platform, the YZF-R2 reflects our confidence in India's engineering expertise and its growing role in Yamaha's global product strategy.”

“We are deeply grateful to our R-series customers in India for their unwavering trust and passion, which have helped make the R-series one of Yamaha's most iconic motorcycle families in the country. Today, with over one million R-series motorcycles on Indian roads, this enduring relationship continues to inspire us to push the boundaries of innovation and performance. We are confident the YZF-R2 will build on this legacy, set a new benchmark in its segment, and inspire the next generation of Yamaha riders."

The all-new YZF-R2 will be available across all Blue Square (BSQ) dealerships in India from Mid- September 2026.

Prices and Colour Options 

 

YZF-R2 variant wise pricing & colour options
Sl. No	Variant	Price (ex-showroom, Delhi)	Colours
1	YZF-R2	INR 2,30,500	Metallic Black & Dark Bluish Gray
2	YZF-R2 (Quick Shifter)	INR 2,39,500	Matte White Pearl & Racing Blue
3	YZF-R2 M	INR 2,53,000	Metallic Gray

 

About Yamaha Motor India Group of Companies

Yamaha Motor made its initial foray into India in 1985 as a joint venture. In August 2001, it became a 100% subsidiary of Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd, Japan (YMC). In 2008, Mitsui & Co., Ltd. entered into an agreement with YMC to become a joint investor in India Yamaha Motor Private Limited (IYM). In 2013, YMC established Yamaha Motor Research & Development India Pvt. Ltd. (YMRI) to provide R&D and Product development services to IYM for its domestic as well as export markets. IYM's manufacturing facilities comprise State-of-the-art plants at Surajpur (Uttar Pradesh) and Kanchipuram (Tamil Nadu). The infrastructure at these plants supports the production of motorcycles and parts for domestic as well as overseas markets. Presently, its India product portfolio includes XSR155 (155cc), YZF-R15 V4 (155cc), YZF-R15S V3 (155cc), MT-15 V2 (155cc); FZS-Fi Hybrid (149cc), FZS-Fi (149cc), FZ Rave (149cc), FZ-X Hybrid (149cc), FZ-X (149cc), AEROX Version S (155cc); Hybrid Scooters like Fascino 125 FI Hybrid (125cc), Ray ZR 125 FI Hybrid (125cc), Ray ZR Street Rally 125 FI Hybrid (125cc) and EV Scooters including EC-06, Aerox E along with FZ-Blue Flex alternate fuel vehicle.  

Gleneagles BGS Hospital Launches Karnataka's First Dedicated Liver Nodule Clinic

* Multidisciplinary clinic brings hepatologists, surgeons, radiologists and oncologists together under one roof, reducing delays and simplifying care for patients with liver nodules

Gleneagles BGS Hospital, Kengeri, Bengaluru (part of the Fortis Healthcare Network), has launched Karnataka's first dedicated Liver Nodule Clinic, bringing together specialists across multiple disciplines to provide coordinated evaluation, diagnosis and treatment planning for patients with liver nodules. The clinic is designed to eliminate fragmented care by enabling patients to receive expert opinions and personalised treatment recommendations through a single, integrated care pathway.

Thousands of people are diagnosed with liver nodules every year, often during routine health check-ups or imaging performed for unrelated conditions. While many nodules are harmless, others may require close monitoring or immediate treatment. However, patients frequently struggle to determine which specialist they should consult first, leading to multiple referrals, repeated investigations, delayed diagnoses and unnecessary anxiety.

The Liver Nodule Clinic addresses this gap by offering a multidisciplinary model of care from the very first consultation. Every patient undergoes a comprehensive evaluation, after which hepatologists, HPB and liver transplant surgeons, gastroenterologists, interventional radiologists, oncologists, diagnostic radiologists, pathologists and nutrition experts collectively review the case and formulate an individualised treatment plan. The clinic also centrally coordinates appointments, investigations and referrals, allowing patients to receive seamless care under one roof.

The clinic manages the complete spectrum of liver nodules, including benign liver cysts, haemangiomas, focal nodular hyperplasia, hepatic adenomas, indeterminate liver lesions, liver cancers, metastatic liver lesions, complex liver tumours and patients requiring liver transplant evaluation. By bringing all relevant expertise together early in the patient's journey, the clinic aims to improve diagnostic accuracy, reduce treatment delays and ensure timely clinical decision-making.

The Liver Nodule Clinic was inaugurated by the medical experts who are part of the multidisciplinary team, including Dr. Adarsh C K, HOD & Sr. Consultant, Medical Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Advanced Endoscopy; Dr. Mahesh Gopasetty, HOD & Lead Consultant, Liver Transplant & HPB Surgery; Dr. Dharma Kumar K G, Consultant, Surgical Oncology; Dr. Sindhu V A, Senior Consultant, Surgical Oncology; Dr. Naveen Chandrashekhar, Consultant, Interventional Radiology; Dr. Ravindra Nidoni, Consultant, Liver Transplant & HPB Surgery; and Dr. Vinay Kumar BR- Consultant, Hepatology, Dr Manish Joshi- Senior Consultant - Surgical Gastroenterology, Dr Jeevan G M - Associate Consultant Pediatric Hematology & Oncology, Dr Sanjeev Shetty - Consultant Minimal access GI , Bariatric & General surgeon.

Dr. Adarsh C K, HOD & Sr Consultant, Medical Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Advanced Endoscopy, said: "Liver nodules/cysts are increasingly being detected incidentally because of the growing use of routine imaging. While many are harmless, some may indicate underlying liver disease or early liver cancer, making timely diagnosis critical. The biggest challenge is often distinguishing which nodules need intervention and which can be safely monitored. Our Liver Nodule Clinic brings together specialists from the outset, enabling faster diagnosis, greater clinical confidence and a clear roadmap for every patient."

Dr. Mahesh Gopasetty, HOD & Lead Consultant – Liver Transplant & HPB Surgery, said: “When a liver nodule requires treatment, timing and precision are crucial. Decisions around surgery depend not only on the size and location of the nodule, but also on the liver’s function and the patient’s overall health. By bringing together specialists and investigations as part of a multidisciplinary evaluation from the outset, we can assess each case comprehensively, identify patients who would benefit from timely intervention, determine the most appropriate treatment approach and avoid unnecessary surgery when conservative management is more appropriate.”

Mr Ravi Bagali, COO, Gleneagles BGS Hospital, Kengeri, Bengaluru, said: "The launch of Karnataka's first dedicated Liver Nodule Clinic reflects our commitment to delivering patient-centric, multidisciplinary healthcare. We are continuously investing in specialised programmes that simplify the patient journey while ensuring access to advanced clinical expertise. This clinic represents another important step towards providing coordinated, evidence-based care that improves outcomes and enhances the patient experience." 

Godrej Properties And Xynteo Launch Habitat Matters To Accelerate India's Low-Carbon Construction Materials

* A CSR initiative by Godrej Properties (GPL) that will identify, test, and validate low-carbon material innovations.

Godrej Properties (GPL) today announced the launch of Habitat Matters under Godrej Good & Green Labs, innovation arm of Good & Green, Godrej Industries Group in partnership with Xynteo. This is a CSR initiative aimed at accelerating the adoption of low-carbon construction materials in India's built environment.

India is in the midst of one of the largest construction booms of any economy in the world. By 2050, the country is expected to have approximately 34 billion square metres of new building stocks, with many studies estimating new construction almost doubling its current levels. Every building constructed in that window locks in its environmental footprint the moment it is built, making today's material choices a decision with consequences that cannot be undone.

Cement, concrete, steel, glass, and blocks that form every wall account for a significant share of construction's carbon impact, and remain among the least addressed challenges in the industry. Habitat Matters is designed to close the gap between promising low-carbon material innovations and their real-world deployment on a live construction project, by identifying credible innovations, piloting them, and evaluating their performance under real conditions.

Over the next five years, Godrej Properties aims to deploy such pilots, building a body of validated, on-ground evidence that can inform how the wider industry builds going forward.

"Godrej Properties has always been at the forefront of sustainability in Indian real estate, and Habitat Matters is our effort to take that a step further. We aim to bridge the gap between promising ideas and what can actually be deployed on a live site. Through this, innovators get engineering rigour, a real site to test innovations in agile and real-world dynamic conditions and evaluations that will help create new industry standards," said Rohit Mohan, Chief Design and Sustainability Officer, Godrej Properties.

"India's growth story over the next decade will be written in the choices we make about how we build. At Good & Green Labs, we exist to take on the big hairy problems the industry hasn't cracked yet, and low-carbon construction materials is one of the biggest. We don't believe in solving these in isolation; every solution we back is built in partnership with people who understand the science and the ground reality. We aim to build solutions that the wider real estate ecosystem can adopt, scale and take the entire industry forward," said Pakzan Dastoor, Head, Good & Green, Godrej Industries Group.

Suman Jagdev, Partner, Xynteo, said, "India does not necessarily have an innovation problem in low-carbon materials. It has a deployment and adoption challenge. Habitat Matters creates the bridge that the market has been missing, connecting promising solutions with live construction projects, real site conditions and supported by enabling policy. It provides a platform that helps to establish commercial credibility based on proven performance and lays the foundation that can eventually deliver scale."

Habitat Matters has opened a Request for Applications (RFA), inviting start-ups, research institutions, material manufacturers, and technology providers to apply. Through this open call, the programme will identify low-carbon material solutions and support their journey from lab-tested innovation to site-validated solution.

The programme focuses on five priority material categories — cement, concrete, steel, blocks, and glass — as well as bio-based alternatives and other deployable embodied carbon solutions. Innovations at TRL 5 and above are eligible to apply. Selected applicants will have the opportunity to pilot their innovations within active construction projects and will receive structured technical and commercialisation support to accelerate adoption.

Applications should be submitted to Habitat.Matters@xynteo.com in a maximum five-slide format (PPT or Word file) by 15th October 2026.

About G&G

Good & Green is the CSR and sustainability vertical for Godrej Industries Group (GIG), driving the Group's commitment to inclusive and sustainable growth across its businesses. Guided by the vision of crafting a better world for every generation, Good & Green works across entities, shaping sustainability strategy, CSR programming, and social impact initiatives around three pillars: Thriving Communities, which empowers frontline and under-represented communities across India to live healthier, more prosperous lives; Industry Innovation, which spearheads innovations and platforms in partnership with industry and academia to address industry level challenges; and Sustainability Excellence, which drives future-ready practices for sustainable business excellence across the GIG ecosystem.

About Godrej Properties Limited

At Godrej Properties, part of the Godrej Industries Group, we are driven by a singular purpose: crafting joy. Over 100,000 families have found a home with us, making us India’s largest residential developer by both value and volume of homes sold. As part of the Godrej Industries Group, we combine a 129-year legacy of trust and excellence with a forward-looking vision to shape the future of urban India.

Our approach is anchored in thoughtful design, sustainability, thriving communities, and uncompromising quality. As of December 2025, we were ranked the number one real estate company worldwide on both the Dow Jones Best-in-Class Sustainability Indices and the Global Real Estate.

For more information visit www.godrejproperties.com

About Xynteo

Xynteo is a specialist business advisory firm, based in Europe and India, on a mission to help global organisations and investors accelerate sustainable impact and value creation.​

In a market dominated by traditional consultancies, Xynteo is disrupting the status quo. Our work goes beyond ‘just strategy’ to transform complex decarbonisation, energy transition and circularity challenges into practical, actionable pathways for commercial success. By forging long-term partnerships with our clients, leveraging our expertise and extensive alliance ecosystem, we empower companies to identify, realise, and scale opportunities at all stages of their value creation journey.​

Our tailored solutions help organisations achieve meaningful, measurable results. We unlock systemic challenges through collaboration, devise sustainable value strategies, bring to life economically viable transformation, and generate impact across the investor portfolio lifecycle.​

Learn more about us at www.xynteo.com

Fortis Hospital Bannerghatta Road In Association With Agilus Diagnostics Launches Agilus-Fortis Cardio-Renal-Metabolic Clinic

* New clinic brings together Interventional Cardiology & Heart Failure, Nephrology and Endocrinology under one coordinated care model to address the growing burden of Cardio-Renal-Metabolic health –

Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, in collaboration with Agilus Diagnostics, today launched Agilus-Fortis Clinic, an integrated clinic in Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, dedicated to comprehensive Heart, Kidney and Metabolic Health. The initiative brings together specialists in Interventional Cardiology, Heart Failure, Nephrology and Endocrinology under a unified, multidisciplinary care model. Recognizing the close interconnection between cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease and diabetes, the clinic is designed to provide patients with coordinated assessment, early identification of health risks and comprehensive, integrated management. By bringing multiple specialties together under one roof, Agilus-Fortis Clinic aims to deliver a seamless approach to the prevention, early detection and management of interconnected cardio-renal-metabolic health conditions.

The launch comes at a time when the growing interplay between cardiovascular, renal and metabolic disorders is emerging as a significant healthcare challenge. Diabetes, kidney disease and cardiovascular conditions are closely interconnected, with one condition often increasing the risk or severity of another. Through its integrated care model, the clinic aims to address this interconnected disease continuum by bringing together specialists from multiple disciplines for coordinated assessment, early intervention and comprehensive patient management. The multidisciplinary team at Agilus-Fortis comprises of Dr. Rajpal Singh R L, Director – Interventional Cardiology & Heart Failure, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road; Dr. Aashish Parekh, Senior Consultant – Nephrology; and Dr. Anusha N D, Consultant – Endocrinology.

The clinic is guided by the philosophy “Three Specialties. One Team. Your Health. Our Commitment.” Through collaboration between the three specialties, Agilus-Fortis aims to provide patients with a more seamless care pathway spanning cardiac, renal and metabolic health. Agilus-Fortis Clinic, Basavanagudi is located at No. 49/2, Nittoor Square, S Kariappa Road, Opposite Balaji Medical, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru – 560004.

Speaking on the launch, Dr. Rajpal Singh R L, Director – Interventional Cardiology & Heart Failure, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, said, “Heart, kidney and metabolic health are closely interconnected, and patients living with diabetes or kidney disease may also face a heightened risk of cardiovascular complications. These conditions can influence and worsen one another over time. By bringing these specialties together, we can take a more holistic view of each patient, identify interconnected risks at an earlier stage and develop a coordinated, personalized approach to treatment and long-term care.”

Dr. Suneet Kaur, Technical Lead - South Agilus Diagnostics, Head of Lab Operations - Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, said, “The collaboration between Agilus Diagnostics and Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, brings together advanced diagnostic capabilities and specialised clinical expertise to create a more seamless and coordinated care pathway for patients. Through the Agilus-Fortis Clinic, our aim is to simplify access to the right specialists and timely diagnostic evaluation, enabling patients to receive comprehensive care through an integrated, multidisciplinary approach.”

Commenting on the launch, Dr. Ananth Rao, VP & Business Head, Fortis Hospitals, Bengaluru, said, “At Fortis, we continue to look at healthcare models that respond to the evolving needs of patients. Cardiovascular disease, kidney disease and diabetes often intersect, and managing these conditions effectively requires collaboration across specialties. Agilus-Fortis Clinic brings together this expertise in a coordinated model, with the aim of supporting earlier risk identification, comprehensive management and better continuity of care for patients.”

All New Kia Sorento Unveiled; Production Begins At Its Anantapur Factory In India

* The official launch will take place on 04 September 2026, Kia India and pre-bookings via dealerships and Kia India website are already open

Kia India releases first official images of the all-new Kia Sorento unveiled; Built in India for India, it is bold and showcases a progressive design language and a bold SUV stance Kia Sorento, manufactured at Kia India's Anantapur factory.

Launched, the first locally manufactured unit is a manufacturing out of line Sorento is Kia's first hybrid SUV with AWD for India. The brand's globally renowned premium flagship SUV by bringing its premium SUV to Indian customers further strengthened the portfolio.

It is also available in a diesel powertrain, it offers customers both hybrid and diesel options. It brought a choice between Kia AI Assistant, powered by Live Generative AI, available in India..

Making its global debut with the upcoming Sorento It is the first Kia model to introduce the technology and It is the first model in the Indian automotive industry.

The official launch will take place on 04 September 2026, Kia India and pre-bookings via dealerships and Kia India website are already open.

The country's leading group-Premium Kia India, one of the leading automakers, today launched its premium flagship. The first official images of the Kia Sorento SUV have been released, along with the India launch. Sorento, for India, Kia's first hybrid SUV and new premium three-row SUV.

The brand's global SUV design, marking the brand's entry into the category. Bringing the ideology to Indian consumers, with a bold stance, unique design elements, It combines sophisticated interiors and a premium AUV experience. Kia India expands its premium SUV portfolio in a context of strengthening, state-of-the-art technology built in India for India.

The debut of the Kia Sorento marks a major milestone in its product offering in the country. indicates expansion. Official images, its introduction as a premium family SUV shaped by a bold and progressive design language that reiterates the essence of the SUV's size and presence are emphasized. Its confident stance from the proportions and unique exterior details to its immediate and subtle. Every aspect of the Kia Sorento, right down to the interiors, reflects Kia's ever-changing reflecting a global design language, its premium SUV appeal It has increased even more.

Kia Sorento hits a major milestone ahead of its India debut Kia India has started production at its Anantapur factory, the first locally manufactured unit rolled off the production line today. This production start marks a new chapter for Kia India with Sorento launched, the brand's globally renowned premium SUV bringing it closer to customers.

Kia India's Anantapur plant, production in 2019 and since its inception, India has been a production base for the brand's journey. The Kia Sorento is also part of Kia India's multi-power train journey and a great step forward. Kia India's all-wheel drive for India electrification in a premium SUV, becoming the first hybrid SUV and enhanced driving capability. Sorento diesel power is also available on the train, it gives customers the freedom to drive and own their own cars. Now choosing between hybrid and diesel based on requirements gives freedom.

Further strengthening its premium and technology-oriented proposition Sorento, Kia AI Assistant with Live Generative AI capabilities. The Sorento, which will be launched in India, will introduce this technology globally.

In addition to being the first Sorento to be introduced, Kia's global production line-The entire line up will also be the first entry into generative AI. Traditional Voice Unlike assistants, live generative AI provides access to real-time Provide opportunities for timely, active conversations and continuous new information Making every journey smarter, more informed, by providing and it will be more personalized..

Speaking about the unveiling and production start, Kia India Managing Director and CEO Mr. Gwanggu Lee said, “Sorento, Kia has long been a global symbol of SUV leadership, and has been recognized internationally as Kia's most established flagship SUV, gaining customer trust across markets. One of the names. Its entry into India is our premium.

It is a defining moment for the portfolio. Today marks the opening of our Anantapur factory.

The first locally produced Sorento rolls off the production line. We are proud to present this globally renowned premium flagship SUV through. We are taking a major step forward in bringing this to Indian consumers. Kia's vision for the country. The first hybrid SUV and a powerful diesel powertrain to complement it. The Sorento, which is here, demonstrates our commitment to providing meaningful choices to customers.

The launch of the Sorento in India marks the debut of Line Generative AI. With its global introduction, this is a major milestone for Kia and a first for the Indian automotive industry. Sorento for India.

These are the first images as we prepare to introduce what's next. "It's just a bird's eye view of what's to come," he said.

Pre-orders are available through Kia India dealerships and the official website Kia India.

Bookings are already open.

The Kia Sorento will make its official India debut on 04 September 2026.

Your Go-To List for The Perfect Tech Gifts, This Raksha Bandhan

Raksha Bandhan is a celebration of the bond between siblings and the many shared moments that make it special. From exchanging gifts and catching up over family meals to listening to music, staying connected, pursuing hobbies, or simply spending time together, the occasion is a chance to celebrate the different personalities and interests that make every sibling relationship unique. A thoughtful gift that fits naturally into their everyday lives can make the occasion even more meaningful.

This Raksha Bandhan, whether you are looking for something for a music lover, a tech enthusiast, a creator, or someone who enjoys spending time with family, there are plenty of options to consider. From personal audio and portable entertainment to smart devices and kitchen essentials, these picks combine everyday utility with features designed around different interests, making them thoughtful gifts for every kind of sibling.

Sony WF-1000XM6: For siblings who always have music playing, whether during their commute, while working, or simply while relaxing at home, a pair of premium earbuds can become an everyday companion. The Sony WF-1000XM6 brings the latest 1000X series experience to a compact, truly wireless form factor, making it a thoughtful choice for those who appreciate detailed sound and uninterrupted listening.

The WF-1000XM6 features Sony's HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3e, Integrated Processor V2, Multi Noise Sensor technology, and an 8.4mm driver unit for a detailed listening experience. It supports LDAC, DSEE Extreme, Ambient Sound Mode, and multipoint connectivity, while offering up to 8 hours of playback with Noise Cancelling enabled and up to 12 hours with it switched off. With an IPX4 water-resistance rating and quick charging support, the earbuds are designed to keep up with everyday listening, from commutes and workouts to winding down with a favourite playlist.

Price: INR 35,990

Philips OneChef: This Raksha Bandhan, go beyond traditional gifting with a thoughtful choice that adds convenience to everyday life. The Philips OneChef brings together 33 cooking functions from air frying and steaming to stir-frying and boiling into one versatile appliance, making it an ideal gift for siblings setting up a new home, exploring cooking, or simply looking to make everyday meals easier. Its all-in-one design helps simplify the kitchen while offering the flexibility to prepare a wide variety of dishes.

Thoughtfully designed with Indian cooking needs in mind, OneChef combines convenience, versatility and culinary creativity, making it a practical yet meaningful Raksha Bandhan gift for a sibling who loves good food and smarter living.Whether it's preparing a festive meal, experimenting with new recipes, or putting together a special dinner, the Philips OneChef turns cooking into an opportunity to spend quality time with loved ones.

Price: INR 19,995

Sony WH-1000XM6: Some gifts become part of a sibling's daily routine, and premium headphones can be a particularly thoughtful choice for anyone who enjoys music, podcasts, movies, or simply some uninterrupted time. The Sony WH-1000XM6 combines its flagship audio experience with a new Olive Grey finish, giving the headphones a distinctive new look while retaining the performance and features of the existing model.

Powered by Sony's HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3 and an advanced 12-microphone system, the WH-1000XM6 uses an adaptive microphone system to optimise noise cancellation in real time. The headphones also feature sound co-created with mastering engineers, support high-resolution audio, and offer multipoint connectivity for switching between devices, making them suited to everything from work and travel to relaxed music listening.

Price: INR 39,990

HMD Vibe 2 5G: For siblings who appreciate practical technology that keeps them connected, the HMD Vibe2 5G makes for a thoughtful Raksha Bandhan gift. The smartphone features a 6000mAh battery for dependable all-day usage, Android 16 for a seamless software experience, and 5G connectivity to help users stay connected wherever life takes them.

The inclusion of Indus by Sarvam AI, bringing India-first AI experiences with support for 22 Indian languages, makes everyday interactions simpler and more intuitive. The device also comes with Sanchar Saathi integration, adding an extra layer of digital safety by helping users verify their device and access essential mobile security services with ease.

The HMD Vibe2 5G is equipped with a 50MP AI dual rear camera and an 8MP front camera, making it easy to capture everyday moments, celebrations, and memories with family. Powered by the Unisoc T8200 processor, the smartphone is available in 4GB + 128GB and 6GB + 128GB variants, priced at ₹16,999 and ₹18,999, respectively, on Flipkart, and comes in three distinctive colours: Nordic Blue, Peach Pink, and Cosmic Lavender.

Price: INR 18,999

Sony ULT FIELD 5: Every family has the sibling who is in charge of the playlist, whether it is during a weekend get-together, a road trip, or an evening spent with friends. The Sony ULT FIELD 5 is designed for those moments, bringing powerful sound, portability, and visual elements together in a speaker that can easily become part of the celebration.

Featuring the dedicated ULT button for enhanced bass and 360° Party Light, the ULT FIELD 5 delivers powerful sound while adding a visual element to music sessions. It offers up to 24 hours of battery life, IP67 water, dust, and shock resistance, and a stowable shoulder strap for easier portability. Quick charging provides up to 2 hours of playback from a 10-minute charge, making it a practical option for siblings who like to take their music with them.

Price: INR 24,990

Sony LinkBuds Clip: Some siblings prefer to keep their music close without completely tuning out everything happening around them. Whether they are heading out for a walk, meeting friends, working through the day, or simply listening to a podcast while going about their routine, the Sony LinkBuds Clip offers a different approach to everyday listening.

Its open-ear design with a lightweight clip-on form factor allows users to stay aware of their surroundings while listening to music. The LinkBuds Clip also features three listening modes, including Standard, Voice Boost, and Sound Leakage Reduction, along with AI-based voice pickup for clearer calls. With up to 37 hours of playback, water resistance, and a compact design, they are built for siblings who like to stay connected to both their music and their surroundings throughout the day.

Price: INR 18,990

Sony WF-C710N: Whether it is a daily commute, a workout session, a long study day, or simply some time spent listening to favourite songs, a reliable pair of earbuds can make everyday routines more enjoyable. The Sony WF-C710N brings together noise cancellation, comfortable design, and useful everyday features, making it a practical gift for siblings who prefer something they can use throughout the day.

The WF-C710N features Dual Noise Sensor technology with two microphones for Noise Cancelling, along with Ambient Sound Mode for staying aware of the surroundings when needed. It offers up to 8.5 hours of playback on the earbuds and 21.5 hours through the charging case, for up to 30 hours of total listening, while a 5-minute quick charge provides up to an hour of playback. DSEE, AI-based voice pickup, multipoint connectivity, and IPX4 water resistance further add to its everyday versatility.

Price: INR 8,990

Sony ZV-E10 II: From travel photos and weekend outings to vlogs, food videos, and everyday moments shared on social media, some siblings naturally turn their experiences into content. The Sony ZV-E10 II makes a thoughtful choice for those who enjoy photography and video creation, combining interchangeable lenses with creator-focused features in a lightweight and portable camera.

The ZV-E10 II features a 26MP APS-C Exmor R™ CMOS sensor and BIONZ XR™ image processing engine, supporting 4K video recording at up to 60p. It also includes Creative Look, Cinematic Vlog settings, vertical shooting, and 5 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity for easier sharing, while the high-capacity NP-FZ100 battery supports extended shooting. The included 16-50mm Power Zoom lens also gives creators a versatile starting point for capturing everything from portraits and travel moments to everyday videos.

Price: INR 88,990

Cellecor CBS-05 Opera: Cellecor CBS-05 Opera: For the sibling who can turn any family gathering into a full-blown celebration, the Cellecor CBS-05 Opera makes for a fun and feature-packed Raksha Bandhan gift. Built for music, karaoke and entertainment, the speaker delivers 20W output with 20+ hours of playback, making it ready for everything from festive gatherings to impromptu karaoke nights.

Its dual wireless microphones let siblings take centre stage, while six voice-changing modes add a playful twist to performances. 10 colourful LED lights create a lively ambience, while Bluetooth 5.3, AUX, TF and USB support offer multiple ways to play music. With an 1800mAh battery, the CBS-05 Opera brings portability and entertainment together, making it a fitting pick for siblings who love music and being the life of the party.

Price: INR 3,499

The best Raksha Bandhan gifts are those that reflect the person receiving them and become a part of the moments they enjoy every day. Whether it is listening to a favourite playlist, capturing family memories, cooking together, staying connected, or adding music to a get-together, the right technology can make these experiences more enjoyable.

With options spanning entertainment, personal audio, smartphones, cooking, and content creation, this selection offers something for different interests, personalities, and everyday routines. This Raksha Bandhan, choose a gift that goes beyond the occasion and gives your sibling something they can continue to enjoy long after the celebrations are over. 

Cosmo First Showcasing Specialty Films-Led Growth Strategy At ElitePlus++

* As Flexible Packaging Industry Shifts Towards Performance And Sustainability
Cosmo First, a leading global conglomerate into multiple businesses, is participating in ElitePlus++ as the Platinum Sponsor of the 13th Speciality Films & Flexible Packaging Global Summit & Exhibition 2026, organised by ElitePlus++ Business Services. The two-day summit, being held on August 26-27, 2026, at Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai, brings together stakeholders from the specialty films, flexible packaging, plastics, converting and sustainable packaging ecosystem.

Cosmo First’s participation comes at a time when the packaging industry is witnessing a growing shift towards high-performance, application-specific and sustainable film solutions. The company has been steadily increasing its focus on specialty and semi-specialty films. The specialty films portfolio has grown at around 10% CAGR, reflecting the company’s strategy of moving towards higher-value applications.

At the summit, Cosmo First will engage with industry stakeholders on the evolving role of specialty films in enabling packaging solutions that combine performance, functionality, efficiency and sustainability. The company’s portfolio spans packaging, lamination, labelling and industrial applications, with Cosmo Films being globally among the top four players in BOPP specialty films, the second-largest player globally in specialty label films and the world’s largest supplier of thermal lamination films and industrial application films. Offerings from Cosmo Speciality Chemicals and Cosmo Plastech are also being displayed at the exhibition. Further, during the conference, Mr. Pankaj Poddar, Group CEO, addressed the audience sharing his views on how new age premium packaging can be performance driven, built with purpose and still be profitable – sharing insights from Cosmo First’s successful strategies.

Commenting on the company’s participation, Mr. Pankaj Poddar, Group CEO, Cosmo First, said, “The packaging industry is undergoing a fundamental shift, with brands and converters increasingly looking for materials that deliver higher functionality while addressing sustainability requirements. Specialty films are at the centre of this transition. Our journey at Cosmo First has been focused on building capabilities across high-value applications, backed by investments in capacity, R&D and sustainability. The ElitePlus++ Global Summit provides an important platform to engage with the industry on how innovation in packaging materials can shape the next phase of flexible packaging.”

Cosmo First has been strengthening its innovation-led specialty films portfolio through solutions such as Cosmo Green Graphic Films (PVC-free), chemically recycled PCR BOPP films, heat-resistant BOPP films, synthetic paper and specialised barrier films. Its sustainability efforts also include developing mono-material structures, improving material yield and offering alternatives to conventional materials in specific applications. The company has also significantly expanded its R&D capabilities, with 30+ R&D professionals and dedicated laboratories in India and the US.

Through its participation as Platinum Sponsor, Cosmo First will bring together its expertise in specialty films, flexible packaging and sustainable material solutions, while contributing to discussions around the future of the packaging ecosystem and the industry’s transition towards more performance-driven and responsible solutions.

About Cosmo First Ltd.:

Established in 1981 by Mr. Ashok Jaipuria, Cosmo First Limited is a four-decade-old global conglomerate. Its consumer vertical comprises Cosmo Consumer – covering Window Films, Paint Protection Films, and Ceramic Coatings for automobiles – and Zigly Pet Care, a digital-first omnichannel pet care ecosystem. Its industrial vertical includes Cosmo Films (specialty films for packaging, labels, lamination, and industrial applications), Cosmo Speciality Chemicals (coatings, adhesives, and masterbatches), and Cosmo Plastech (rigid packaging). With sustainable innovation and R&D at its core, Cosmo First serves customers across 100+ countries.