Skoda
Customs alleges VW delayed in $1.4bn tax evasion case
The Skoda Auto car manufacturer is involved in a dispute with the Indian customs department regarding the classification of imported car components and the delay in completing the customs assessments. The department has issued a notice demanding duty at Completely Knocked Down (CKD) rates on imported car components for the past 12 years, threatening to confiscate the goods. Skoda Auto claims that the delays are not due to any inaction by the authorities, but rather to the complexity of the case and the need for coordinates and data from vendors.
The customs commissioner has titled back at Skoda, arguing that the company’s classification of the parts and components was incorrect, and that they should have been classified as CKD kits. The commissioner also stated that the customs department’s prolonged provisional assessment period was due to ongoing Special Valuation Branch (SVB) investigations, which scrutinize import transactions between related parties.
In the affidavit, the commissioner claimed that the company failed to provide necessary information and documents on time, and that they had not raised any objection to the assessments being provisional in nature. The department also presented documentary evidence, including a Skoda email indicating an intention to finalize the pending assessments by June 2024, along with an action plan for obtaining data from foreign suppliers.
Additionally, the customs department cited a Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) investigation that uncovered a significant number of agreements entered into by Volkswagen Group Sales India Pvt. Ltd. that were allegedly concealed by Skoda. The department also pointed out that Skoda had renewed a continuity bond, which covers multiple import shipments, even after the issuance of the show-cause notice, signifying their acceptance of the provisional assessments.
The customs commissioner urged the Bombay High Court to dismiss Skoda’s writ petition and allow the adjudication process to proceed, promising to appoint an adjudicator and finalize the provisional assessments within six to eight months.
Here is a reworded version of the line:Unveiling the most anticipated models of 2025: Maruti, Hyundai, Tata, and Mahindra’s latest SUV arrivals on GaadiWaadi.com
The article discusses the most awaited new SUVs in 2025 from Indian manufacturers such as Maruti, Hyundai, Tata, and Mahindra. Here is a summary of the content in 400 words:
The article starts by mentioning the only SUV launch confirmed for next month, citing a specific marquee brand. It then goes on to list the four most awaited new SUVs from Indian manufacturers, which are as follows:
* Maruti Suzuki, which is reportedly working on a new compact SUV, codenamed ‘CM3’, which is expected to be launched soon.
* Hyundai, which has been working on a new compact SUV, codenamed ‘N Linea’, which is expected to be launched in 2025.
* Tata, which has been working on a new flagship SUV, codenamed ‘Sierra’, which is expected to be launched in 2025.
* Mahindra, which has been working on a new compact SUV, codenamed ‘XUV700’, which is expected to be launched in 2025.
The article also mentions some of the key features and specifications of these SUVs, including their dimensions, engine options, and features. It then goes on to talk about some of the other upcoming SUVs in India, including full-size SUVs from Skoda, Volkswagen, and other European brands.
Finally, the article concludes by mentioning that European SUVs are also making a mark in the Indian market, and recommends waiting for two exciting European SUVs, codenamed ‘QX50’ and ‘Encept’, which are expected to be launched in India soon.
Overall, the article provides an interesting summary of the upcoming SUVs in India, highlighting the key features and specifications of these new launches.
Eleven game-changing vehicles that revolutionized the Indian automotive landscape – India Today
The Indian automobile market has seen the emergence of many memorable and iconic cars that have left a lasting impact on the minds of car enthusiasts. Here are 11 legendary cars that have shaped the Indian market:
1. Ambassador (1958-2014) – A symbol of Indian automotive indigenization, the Ambassador was a popular choice for its durability, spacious interior, and affordable price. Its production ended in 2014, marking an era of departure from Indian automotive history.
2. Maruti 800 (1983-2005) – This compact car was India’s first Maruti product, launched in the 1980s. Its affordable price and efficient fuel consumption made it a household name, carving a significant chunk in the market.
3. Maruti Zen (1993-2006) – A hatchback that redefined the Indian entry-level car market, the Maruti Zen was a major hit, offering fuel efficiency and style at an affordable price.
4. Maruti Gypsy (1996- present) – A rugged off-roader, the Gypsy is a trusted companion for many, known for its capabilities on rough terrain and feedback-driven development.
5. Tata Indica (1999-2015) – The Indica was a game-changer for Tata, offering a compact car with modern styling and features at an affordable price. Its popularity led to the success of the Tata brand in the mass market.
6. Skoda Fabia (2000-2018) – The Skoda Fabia, a compact hatchback, gained immense popularity in India, especially during the 2000s, with its stylish design and impressive ride and handling.
7. Hyundai Accent (2003-2010) – A popular compact car, the Hyundai Accent was praised for its luxurious interior, performance, and mileage. Its Indian production ended in 2010, but its impact remains significant.
8. Toyota Innova (2005-present) – A popular MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) in India, the Toyota Innova has been a hit for its spacious interior, powerful engine, and impressive fuel efficiency.
9. Maruti Dzire (2008-present) – The Dzire, a compact sedan, is India’s best-selling car for over a decade, with its roomy interior, comfortable ride, and strong resale value.
10. Ford Figo (2010-2015) – The Figo, a hatchback, was a successful entrant in the Indian market, known for its impressive handling, premium features, and international design.
11. Ford EcoSport (2012-present) – This subcompact crossover has been a significant part of India’s growth in the adventure-seeking and SUV-conquering market. Its styling, performance, and price made it a hit among young buyers and rural market segments.
These 11 legendary cars have played a vital role in shaping the Indian automotive market, introducing various segments, such as the hatchback, sedan, and MPV, and offering Indian consumers a wide range of choices. Their legacy continues to inspire new generation of cars, with many manufacturers vying to create a similar impact in the Indian market.
Take a glimpse into the sleek future: Get ready to experience the excitement of Citroen’s Basalt Dark Edition, launching soon!
Citroen has revealed the Basalt Dark Edition, a new special edition of its popular SUV coupe, with a black exterior paint job, dual-tone alloy wheels, and a dark-themed interior. The teaser images suggest that the exterior will have a striking all-black design, with chrome badging, while the interior will feature an all-black cabin with premium features such as a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 7-inch digital driver’s display.
The Basalt Dark Edition is likely to be based on the higher-end variants of the car, meaning it will have a range of features, including automatic climate control, wireless phone charger, and steering-mounted audio controls. Safety features like six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, and a rear parking camera with sensors will also be present.
Mechanically, the Basalt Dark Edition is expected to retain the same engine options as the standard model, including a 1.2-liter petrol engine with 82 PS and 110 PS power outputs, as well as a 1.2-liter turbo-petrol engine with up to 205 Nm of torque.
The car is likely to command a minor premium over the regular model, which is priced between Rs 7.99 lakh to Rs 13.83 lakh ex-showroom. The Basalt Dark Edition will compete with other popular SUVs like the Tata Curvv, Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Skoda Kushaq, Honda Elevate, and Volkswagen Taigun. It’s also worth considering as an alternative to some sub-4m SUVs in its price range. The Basalt Dark Edition’s release is expected to boost sales for the SUV coupe, and we’re curious to know what our readers think – would you consider buying a Citroen Basalt in its Dark Edition? Let us know in the comments.
Here is a rewritten version of the line without additional responses:Volkswagen’s new Tera SUV is reportedly in the pipeline, set to rival Skoda’s Kodiaq in the Indian market.
Volkswagen is set to launch a new sub-4m SUV, the Tera, globally, which has raised the possibility of its introduction in the Indian market. The Tera is built on the MQB A0 platform and features a 1-litre turbo-petrol engine, similar to the Taigun, and has a similar footprint as the upcoming Skoda Kylaq. If launched in India, the Tera could fill the void left by the discontinued Polo and provide a new entry-point for the brand in the sub-4m segment.
Several reasons make the Tera an attractive option for Volkswagen to bring to India. Firstly, Skoda is launching the Kylaq sub-4m SUV soon, and Volkswagen doesn’t have an equivalent offering since the Polo’s discontinuation. Secondly, the shared platform and powertrain between Skoda and Volkswagen models, such as the Virtus, Slavia, and Taigun, could make it a cost-effective option for the company to introduce the Tera locally.
Launching the Tera in India could also help Volkswagen capitalize on the popularity of internal combustion engine vehicles before fully transitioning to an electric lineup. The brand has been focusing on electric vehicles globally, but in India, the Tera could provide a more affordable option for buyers.
Additionally, the Tera could be the most affordable Volkswagen car in the Indian market, making it more accessible to a wider range of buyers. It would also serve as a vital product for Volkswagen’s lineup in India, which has been relatively quiet since the launch of the Virtus in early 2022.
The Tera’s design is similar to the Tiguan, with a headlight setup, grille, and bumper design. It will be offered with a 1-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. With its compact size and affordable price, the Tera could be an attractive option for those looking for a compact SUV.
With the exit of Maruti Ciaz, the mid-size sedan market is expected to contract further.
Maruti Suzuki India Ltd’s (MSIL) decision to discontinue its mid-size sedan, Ciaz, from the market is expected to further decline the segment’s sales, which have already been dwindling. According to Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) data, the wholesales of the mid-size sedan segment declined by 30% to 51,171 units in April-February 2024-25, compared to 73,108 units in the same period a year ago. Production also declined by 13.1% to 1,90,517 units.
The discontinuation of Ciaz was not officially confirmed, but sources cite the decline in sales over the last couple of years and increased competition from new entrants like Skoda Slavia and Volkswagen Virtus as reasons. The company may also be focusing on cannibalizing sales from its own Dzire compact sedan, which offers more features and safety ratings.
The data also shows that the overall sales of passenger cars have declined by 4.3% year-on-year to 1,10,966 units in February, while utility vehicles have grown by 9.1% to 2,08,795 units. This suggests that consumers are shifting their preferences towards SUVs, further depressing the demand for sedans.
The discontinuation of Ciaz is expected to have a significant impact on the market, leading to a further decline in the sales of mid-size sedans. The segment’s demand has already been declining due to changing consumer preferences and increased competition. As a result, the market is likely to see a greater emphasis on SUVs and crossovers in the coming months.
The rumors are true! Volkswagen Polo’s comeback to India is imminent, and we can’t wait to see what exciting features it will bring!
The iconic Volkswagen Polo, a favorite among Indian car enthusiasts, has been discontinued since 2022. However, there are whispers that the brand may be making a comeback, but not as a traditional hatchback. Instead, it might return as a new SUV or crossover. Although the company has not officially confirmed this, the possibility is high.
The Polo has been a beloved car in India, praised for its sleek styling, solid build quality, and impressive performance. Its absence has left a void in the market, but its residual value has only appreciated, with some owners even selling their vehicles for the same price they purchased them for a few years ago. The used car business has also seen a significant surge, with 33,000 units expected to be sold by 2024.
Reviving the Polo brand, which has a strong recall in India, could be a game-changer for Volkswagen. A new sub-4m SUV, potentially based on the Skoda Kylaq platform, could fill the gap in the entry-level segment and bring in volume and profitability. The company is considering various options, including this possibility.
Moreover, Volkswagen has other new launches planned, including the Golf GTI and Tiguan R Line, which will be sold through select dealerships to provide the best ownership experience. However, the Polo remains a crucial vehicle for the brand, particularly in the mass market space, with 4 lakhs out of 7 lakhs units sold in India being Polos, accounting for 60% of the company’s volume.