September 01, 2025

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GST 2.0 DECODED RELIEF DRIVE

If you've been dreaming of a new set of wheels, now is the time. Following the 56th GST Council meeting on September third, taxes on cars and two-wheelers were slashed. Manufacturers haven't just passed on the benefits, they're sweetening the deal with additional discounts, making vehicle ownership more attainable than it has been in yearsThe years after Covid saw car prices soar, driven by rising input costs and higher taxes, leaving many buyers hesitant to upgrade. But the new GST cuts are changing the narrative. Depending on the segment, savings range from a few thousand rupees on scooters to lakhs on popular SUVs. The Maruti Suzuki S-Presso, India's most affordable car, now starts at just Rs 3.50 lakh (exshowroom), putting first-time buyers within striking distance of their dream carTwo-wheelers, the lifeline of daily commuting, are also benefiting. Budget-friendly motorcycles and scooters are easier to afford, the only bad news is for those looking for bikes above 350cc, as GST is increased. However, two-wheeler manufacturers such as KTM, Aprilia and Triumph will absorb the impact and not pass on the hike to those looking for a bike above 350ccFor middle-class families looking to upgrade, passenger cars have become more accessible, particularly in the festive season. Sub4-metre models have gained a lot from the revised GST slabs, with vehicles like the Nexon and 3XO witnessing price cuts of up to Rs 1.56 lakhThe impact was immediate. On September 22, coinciding with Navratri, the start of India's peak festive season, passenger vehicle demand surged. Maruti Suzuki delivered nearly 30,000 cars in a single day, Hyundai Motor India recorded 11,000 dealer billings, and Tata Motors saw 10,000 deliveries, numbers that underscore the pent-up demand now being unleashedWith Diwali just around the corner, dealerships are seeing more visitors as buyers check out discounts and festive offers. Easier affordability and added incentives are making it a good time for many to consider a new car or bike. For dealers, GST the cuts will help in clearing stock at a much faster rate.

Motoring future in Munich

The IAA Mobility returned to Munich with more than 750 exhibitors from 37 countries, and this year a record 5,00,000 visitors attended the motor show. Global brands showcased their latest and best in Munich, headlined by MercedesBenz and BMW, with the unveil of the GLC with EQ Technology and the iX3 respectively. Audi too showcased its new C Concept while Skoda revealed the Vision O Concept, pre- viewing the future of these brands. There were launches from brands like Polestar, Renault, BYD and Porsche as Cupra, Volkswagen and Hyundai showcased concepts headed for production soon. The Czech automaker revealed the upcoming Epiq compact SUV, that will make its debut in 2026. Measuring 4.1m in length, the Epiq will open new avenues for Skoda in more markets like India. The Epiq marks the first model from Skoda to debut the Modern Solid design language, with Cashmere matt paintwork, glossy black tech-deck face and T-shaped LED DRLs. A new tornado line separates the glasshouse from the lower body. The interior features a minimalist layout with a focus on storage and functionality. Skoda is aiming for a range of over 400km on a single charge with the Epiq. The production version of the Epiq will be manufactured at the Volkswagen Navarra plant in Spain as part of the Electric Urban Car Family.