Living with Lexus NX 350h Overtrail: 3 Pros and 2 Cons that you should know
As hybrid SUVs grow in popularity, Lexus has taken a bold step by launching the NX 350h Overtrail—a variant aimed at those who appreciate both luxury and light off-road capability. Building on the strong foundation of the NX hybrid lineup, the Overtrail brings unique styling and a revised suspension setup, all without sacrificing the refined driving experience Lexus is known for. But while it certainly has the looks and the comfort to match its adventurous name, it isn't without its quirks. Here's a quick look at what makes the Overtrail stand out—and where it might fall short.
What It Does Best: Pros of the NX 350h Overtrail 1. Plush Suspension Tuned for Comfort and Control
The Overtrail's ride quality is among its standout features. It features Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) paired with 18-inch wheels and high-profile tyres which thick side walls. This setup cushions potholes and rough roads with remarkable ease, making it one of the most comfortable crossovers in its segment—especially over long distances or uneven terrain. Moreover, at highway speeds, there is no unnecessary up and down or floaty movement, the NX 350h remains composed and calm. By far, it is one of the best suspension setups that I have experienced.
The Lexus NX 350h Overtrail is an adventure-centric edition of the otherwise luxury SUV. It is definitely a head turner out on the Indian roads. 2. Rugged Yet Elegant Exterior Styling
With its exclusive Moon Desert paint, matte-black accents, and a bolder stance, the Overtrail carries a distinct identity. While it evokes a rugged, outdoorsy character, the blacked-out grille, fenders, and roof rails, it does not get short on luxury factor. Wherever, the NX 350h Overtrail goes, it turns heads. 3. Efficient Hybrid Powertrain with AWD Confidence
The 2.5-litre petrol engine, working in tandem with electric motors. The engine puts out 237 bhp and the total torque output stands at 239 Nm. The front electric motor produces 270 Nm whereas the rear one produces 121 Nm. The electric AWD system (E-Four) delivers confident grip on slippery roads or light trails. It's not built for hardcore off-roading, offcourse but on open roads, there is no lack of power, the SUV pulls strongly and immediately, thanks to those electric motors. In fact, it delivered a fuel efficiency of around 15 kmpl to us which is quite impressive for a 1.8-tonne SUV.
Also Read : Lexus NX 350h Overtrail Review: For the sophisticated adventurer Where It Falls Short: Cons of the NX 350h Overtrail 1. Inconsistent Braking Feel
One of the most common complaints revolves around the braking system. The regenerative braking setup can feel jerky or inconsistent, especially at low speeds. Transitioning from regen to mechanical braking isn't always smooth, which might be unsettling in stop-and-go traffic until you adapt to it. It just lacks the confidence, and the driver needs to press the brake pedal quite a bit before the speeds start shedding.
The rear doors could open slightly wider to aid ingress and egress. The legroom is also limited. 2. Cramped rear seat experience
Despite its generous exterior proportions, the rear seat space in the Lexus NX 350h Overtrail feels somewhat cramped, especially for taller passengers. The sloping roofline and bulky front seats eat into headroom and knee room, making the second row less accommodating than one might expect in a mid-size luxury SUV. While the seat cushioning and backrest angle are comfortable for short trips, the limited legroom and relatively narrow cabin width can make long journeys feel tight for three adults across the back. It's clear the NX prioritizes style and front-seat comfort over rear-seat spaciousness, which could be a drawback for families or those who frequently travel with rear passengers.
Check out Upcoming Cars in India 2024, Best SUVs in India.
First Published Date: 25 Jun 2025, 16:26 PM IST
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India Today
7 days ago
- India Today
Power, Pollution and Politics Interactive: Political Hypocrisy on Vehicle Pollution, India's VIP Cavalcades
When 19 vehicles in the Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister's convoy sputtered to a halt after being mistakenly filled with water instead of diesel, the internet had a field day, and the petrol pump felt the heat of the government's machinery. Memes flew, sarcasm poured in, and the incident went viral. But beyond the comedy lay a deeper truth. India's political and administrative leaders routinely travel in massive, fuel-hungry cavalcades — fleets whose carbon footprints are far larger than they appear in passing. The cavalcades in India are seen as a symbol of power, reach and position. The Madhya Pradesh incident is a window into the scale, logistics, and environmental burden of government convoys. And nowhere is the contradiction starker than in Delhi, a city where citizens are penalised for using older, and at times low-polluting vehicles — even as the National Capital Territory's own leaders move around in luxury SUVs and multi-car entourages. Vehicles stuck in a traffic jam on National Highway 48 due to the movement of 'Kanwariyas', near Shankar Chowk, in Gurugram. (PTI Photo) Delhi's struggle with air pollution is no secret. Vehicular emissions contribute heavily to the city's toxic air, especially during winter, when they account for nearly 50% of PM2.5 pollution. To tackle the crisis, the government has introduced everything from odd-even road rationing and green taxes to a recent and controversial order banning the refuelling of end-of-life vehicles — those older than 10 years (diesel) or 15 years (petrol). But in a telling move, the July 1, 2025 rollout of that ban was quietly postponed to November, following backlash from citizens and logistical concerns. The idea was bold, but its withdrawal raised a bigger question: Are the rules really the same for everyone? While citizens are expected to retire or replace their vehicles, Delhi's top officials continue to travel in long, carbon-intensive cavalcades, most of which run on petrol or diesel. Here's a closer look at the official fleets in Delhi: Lieutenant Governor: Five to six vehicles, including Audi/BMW sedans, depending on the LG's choice of travel, Toyota Innova, and Maruti Gypsies form the outer perimeters. A convoy of Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta passes by an ambulance, while leaving the cargo terminal at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport. (Photo: PTI) A convoy of five to six vehicles accompanies the chief minister, with a Gypsy acting as a pilot car. For instance, MG Gloster is Delhi chief minister's official vehicle, while multiple Innovas follow suit. The number of vehicles in government convoys varies by state based on available resources, but most, like the Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister's convoy, typically include at least 7 to 10 vehicles. A high-security convoy for the Prime Minister typically includes 13 to 17 vehicles, featuring BMWs, Range Rovers, jammer-equipped Toyota Fortuners, a Traveller van, route-clearance vehicles used by DCPs or SDMs, and an ambulance — all forming a tightly coordinated cavalcade. The fleet mostly remains the same wherever the prime minister travels, be it a state visit, or electoral campaigning. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's convoy during his visit to Varanasi. (PTI Photo) President of India: The largest, with a 41-vehicle cavalcade, including a high-security BMW for the President, multiple security cars, and emergency support units. Add to this the fleet of gypsies operated by the Delhi Police that act as escorts for road clearance. Sources in the Delhi Police revealed that there are over 300 such end-of-life vehicles in the fleet. The data was later confirmed in an RTI reply to Newslaundry by the Delhi Police, which stated that 93 petrol vehicles were older than 15 years, and 219 diesel vehicles were over 10 years old. also checked the Pollution Under Control (PUC) of some of these aged vehicles, and most of them had expired years ago with no renewal. Photo: India Today Each of these fleets consumes massive amounts of fuel, especially the larger SUVs and jammers, which have poor mileage. A single kilometre of movement by these cavalcades can emit several kilograms of CO₂, especially in stop-start urban traffic. Convoy of Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren moves on the newly inaugurated Siramtoli flyover, in Ranchi. (Photo: PTI) The government has justified aggressive moves against polluting vehicles by citing public health, and rightly so. But even as ordinary citizens are denied fuel or face fines, there's little scrutiny or transparency about the carbon emissions from government fleets. Most vehicles in these cavalcades are not end-of-life, but that doesn't make them efficient. A brand-new diesel Fortuner or BMW SUV still emits far more than a small, BS-VI compliant hatchback. Rahul Gandhi's convoy and security vehicles while he is on padyatra in Sabota Jaffrabad to Alawalpur. (Photo: India Today) In contrast to the average citizen, government convoys operate daily, often with route clearance teams that idle and loop around for extended periods. Even the Rs 1,491 crore green tax collected from commercial vehicles entering Delhi between November 2015 and July 2023 seems undercut when official fleets remain exempt from downsizing or transitioning to electric alternatives. The Madhya Pradesh incident may have been an error, but it inadvertently showcased the vulnerability, cost, and absurdity of maintaining such large fleets for short movements. The 19-vehicle convoy had to be replaced at short notice, creating further environmental and logistical strain. For many, the viral images were not just funny—they were symbolic of how bloated and outdated the practice of political convoys has become in a climate-vulnerable country. PM Narendra Modi's convoy on it's way to India Gate on the ocassion of Republic Day. (Phoot: PTI) With Delhi's air quality consistently reaching hazardous levels every year, public patience is wearing thin. People are questioning why rules about emissions, fuel bans, and vehicle retirements apply only to them. The message becomes mixed when the very individuals pushing environmental reforms are seen travelling in fleets of 10, 20, or even 40 vehicles. Experts and activists are now asking: Why can't official vehicles be electric or hybrid? Can protocol be balanced with sustainability? If not now, in 2025, then when? Convoy of PM Narendra Modi near Rashtrapati Bhawan in New Delhi on June 05, 2024. (Photo: Chandradeep Kumar) India's pollution fight demands difficult choices and shared sacrifices. But if leadership is to mean anything, it must begin with accountability from the top. Downsizing convoys, transitioning to electric vehicles, and disclosing government fleet emissions are low-hanging fruit that can inspire public trust and actually reduce emissions. Until then, the contrast remains hard to ignore: a common man's 11-year-old diesel car is too dirty for Delhi, but a 41-car, fossil-fueled convoy isn't. I won't even mention the chartered plane obsession of our polity.
Hindustan Times
22-07-2025
- Hindustan Times
2025 Apache RTR 310 first ride review: Evolution over revolution
The 2025 TVS Apache RTR 310 gets new colour schemes along with new decals. Check Offers The TVS Apache RTR 310 was first launched back in 2023, marking a bold new chapter in the Apache lineage, bringing together sharp streetfighter styling, aggressive performance, and a host of segment-first features. Positioned as the naked sibling to the RR 310, the RTR 310 is designed to offer a more visceral, road-focused riding experience. With its distinctive design, advanced tech, and a performance-tuned heart, this motorcycle aims to appeal to both spirited commuters and weekend thrill-seekers alike. The RTR 310 continues to be an important product for the manufacturer, considering that most motorcycles sold in India are still naked ones, and the RTR 310 is the most powerful and top-of-the-line naked motorcycle that TVS has in its lineup. Now, in true TVS fashion, the Apache RTR 310 has been updated for 2025. It gets a few subtle upgrades over the outgoing version. So, what are they? We swung a leg over the new Apache RTR 310 in Coimbatore on the CoASTTrace track and on the public roads to find out just how well it lives up to the hype — and whether it has what it takes to shake up the 300cc naked bike segment. The Fury Yellow continues to be on sale and is available from the Top variant onwards. 2025 TVS Apache RTR 310: What are the cosmetic changes? The 2025 iteration of the Apache RTR 310 looks more or less the same. It is now available in four colour schemes that are dual tone. However, the colours are tied to the variant that the person opts for. The base trim is offered only with Arsenal Black, whereas the Top trim is offered in Fiery Red and Fury Yellow. Finally, there is the Sepang Blue, which is inspired by the TVS Asia One Make Championship race bike. 2025 TVS Apache RTR 310: Are there any engine updates? The engine now comes with a transparent clutch cover, first seen on the Apache RR 310. The Apache RTR 310 was known to have vibrations, and that was the brand's primary focus with the 2025 update. First up, there is a new, smaller sprocket at the rear. Then there is the throttle response that has been improved. The sensors have been remapped to respond not just to how much the throttle has been opened but also to how fast the throttle was opened. What these changes have helped is improve the throttle response and fueling. It feels smooth and crisp. Moreover, it is now also running on a new engine map. However, there is still a buzz which converts into vibrations at higher rpms. In city speeds, this might be acceptable, but out on the highway while doing triple-digit speeds, the vibrations are bothersome. However, the performance from the engine continues to be nice and rev-friendly. The exhaust note from the engine is raspy, but to the rider, only the engine note is heard, which is a bit mechanical. The exhaust note is not audible to the rider as he or she can only hear the engine note, which is a bit mechanical. Then there is the gearbox, which is very slick. It also comes with a bi-directional quickshifter, which works quite well. Surprisingly, it was on the track, where it missed a downshift twice. The clutch action is also light, so in bumper-to-bumper traffic, the rider should not face any aches in his left hand. 2025 TVS Apache RTR 310: What are the feature additions? For 2025, TVS Motor Company has added knuckle guards, which are now a standard fitment. There is a transparent clutch cover on the side, which just adds to the coolness factor. We already saw this on the updated RR 310. Then the TFT cluster has been slightly updated for a better user interface and multiple languages. Finally, the brand has added Drag Torque Control, which controls the engine braking to ensure that the rear wheel does not sway or hop under heavy downshifting. And it works, out on the track. I tried this on the track, and not once did I feel anything going wrong with the rear wheel. The instrument cluster of the RTR 310 shows a plethora of information. With the riding mode, the display theme also changes. TVS is also now offering Launch Control, which is available only in the Track mode. Once engaged, the TFT screen would show the instructions to launch the motorcycle. So, engage the first gear, wack on the throttle and let go of the clutch. Finally, there is the keyless ride, which eliminates the need to slot and turn the key. The rider just needs to push a button, and the bike wakes up. What's left now is to just flick the engine kill switch and crank the engine. 2025 TVS Apache RTR 310: What are the BTO kits? So, the base trim of the Apache RTR 310 comes with cruise control, linear traction control, Drag Torque Control and rear wheel lift protection. Then there is the top variant that adds a bi-directional quichshifter. TVS is also offering sequential turn indicators with the Apache RTR 310. After the Top variant, the customer is eligible for the BTO or Built-to-Order kits. First up there is the Kit 1, which adds Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, brass-coated chain and an adjustable suspension for the front as well as at the rear. Finally, there is the Kit 2, which adds a host of features such as keyless ride and launch control. There is also an IMU that enables cornering function for the cruise control, traction control, ABS, Drag Torque Control and Slop Dependent Control. 2025 TVS Apache RTR 310: How is the handling and ride quality? Braking duties are done by a disc in the front as well as at the rear. There is dual-channel ABS on offer along with cornering function with the BTO kit. The Apache RTR 310 continues to be a fantastic handler in the corners. If you are an aggressive rider, then you might scrape the footpegs a bit too soon. It continues to use Michelin Road 5 tyres, which are amazing. They are sticky, provide an ample amount of feedback and stability as well. The brakes are strong, and the rear ABS intervenes only when you stomp on the brake pedal hard. Speaking of ABS, there is also a Supermoto mode that disables the ABS on the rear wheel. The ride quality of the Apache RTR 310 continues to be absorbent while being confident through the corners. However, the seat is very firm and will cause aches. 2025 TVS Apache RTR 310: Verdict The 2025 TVS Apache RTR 310 builds on the solid foundation laid by its predecessor, evolving subtly but meaningfully in key areas that matter to riders. While the design remains largely unchanged, the refreshed colour palette offers some visual freshness. More importantly, TVS has clearly paid attention to rider feedback, addressing one of the bike's main criticisms — vibrations. The changes to the sprocket, improved throttle mapping, and refined fueling make it a smoother machine, though some buzziness still lingers at higher revs. The RTR 310 shares its underpinnings with the RR 310. TVS has also stepped up its game on the tech. In essence, the 2025 Apache RTR 310 doesn't reinvent itself but sharpens the experience it offers. It's still a compelling option for those who want an aggressive and tech-laden streetfighter in the sub-400cc segment. With the added features and refinements, it now feels more complete and better equipped than ever to challenge rivals in the crowded 300cc naked bike space. This is important considering where TVS has positioned the Apache RTR 310. It has an introductory price of between ₹ 2.40 lakh and ₹ 2.85 lakh. This is very close to the KTM Duke 390, which is considered to be in a league of its own and costs ₹ 2.97 lakh. On the other hand, there is the Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z priced at ₹ 1.92 lakh. All prices mentioned here are ex-showroom. First Published Date: 21 Jul 2025, 08:00 am IST
Hindustan Times
21-07-2025
- Hindustan Times
2025 Apache RTR 310 first ride review: Does TVS's streetfighter finally beat the buzz?
The 2025 TVS Apache RTR 310 gets new colour schemes along with new decals. Check Offers The TVS Apache RTR 310 was first launched back in 2023, marking a bold new chapter in the Apache lineage, bringing together sharp streetfighter styling, aggressive performance, and a host of segment-first features. Positioned as the naked sibling to the RR 310, the RTR 310 is designed to offer a more visceral, road-focused riding experience. With its distinctive design, advanced tech, and a performance-tuned heart, this motorcycle aims to appeal to both spirited commuters and weekend thrill-seekers alike. The RTR 310 continues to be an important product for the manufacturer, considering that most motorcycles sold in India are still naked ones, and the RTR 310 is the most powerful and top-of-the-line naked motorcycle that TVS has in its lineup. Now, in true TVS fashion, the Apache RTR 310 has been updated for 2025. It gets a few subtle upgrades over the outgoing version. So, what are they? We swung a leg over the new Apache RTR 310 in Coimbatore on the CoASTTrace track and on the public roads to find out just how well it lives up to the hype — and whether it has what it takes to shake up the 300cc naked bike segment. The Fury Yellow continues to be on sale and is available from the Top variant onwards. 2025 TVS Apache RTR 310: What are the cosmetic changes? The 2025 iteration of the Apache RTR 310 looks more or less the same. It is now available in four colour schemes that are dual tone. However, the colours are tied to the variant that the person opts for. The base trim is offered only with Arsenal Black, whereas the Top trim is offered in Fiery Red and Fury Yellow. Finally, there is the Sepang Blue, which is inspired by the TVS Asia One Make Championship race bike. 2025 TVS Apache RTR 310: Are there any engine updates? The engine now comes with a transparent clutch cover, first seen on the Apache RR 310. The Apache RTR 310 was known to have vibrations, and that was the brand's primary focus with the 2025 update. First up, there is a new, smaller sprocket at the rear. Then there is the throttle response that has been improved. The sensors have been remapped to respond not just to how much the throttle has been opened but also to how fast the throttle was opened. What these changes have helped is improve the throttle response and fueling. It feels smooth and crisp. Moreover, it is now also running on a new engine map. However, there is still a buzz which converts into vibrations at higher rpms. In city speeds, this might be acceptable, but out on the highway while doing triple-digit speeds, the vibrations are bothersome. However, the performance from the engine continues to be nice and rev-friendly. The exhaust note from the engine is raspy, but to the rider, only the engine note is heard, which is a bit mechanical. The exhaust note is not audible to the rider as he or she can only hear the engine note, which is a bit mechanical. Then there is the gearbox, which is very slick. It also comes with a bi-directional quickshifter, which works quite well. Surprisingly, it was on the track, where it missed a downshift twice. The clutch action is also light, so in bumper-to-bumper traffic, the rider should not face any aches in his left hand. 2025 TVS Apache RTR 310: What are the feature additions? For 2025, TVS Motor Company has added knuckle guards, which are now a standard fitment. There is a transparent clutch cover on the side, which just adds to the coolness factor. We already saw this on the updated RR 310. Then the TFT cluster has been slightly updated for a better user interface and multiple languages. Finally, the brand has added Drag Torque Control, which controls the engine braking to ensure that the rear wheel does not sway or hop under heavy downshifting. And it works, out on the track. I tried this on the track, and not once did I feel anything going wrong with the rear wheel. The instrument cluster of the RTR 310 shows a plethora of information. With the riding mode, the display theme also changes. TVS is also now offering Launch Control, which is available only in the Track mode. Once engaged, the TFT screen would show the instructions to launch the motorcycle. So, engage the first gear, wack on the throttle and let go of the clutch. Finally, there is the keyless ride, which eliminates the need to slot and turn the key. The rider just needs to push a button, and the bike wakes up. What's left now is to just flick the engine kill switch and crank the engine. 2025 TVS Apache RTR 310: What are the BTO kits? So, the base trim of the Apache RTR 310 comes with cruise control, linear traction control, Drag Torque Control and rear wheel lift protection. Then there is the top variant that adds a bi-directional quichshifter. TVS is also offering sequential turn indicators with the Apache RTR 310. After the Top variant, the customer is eligible for the BTO or Built-to-Order kits. First up there is the Kit 1, which adds Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, brass-coated chain and an adjustable suspension for the front as well as at the rear. Finally, there is the Kit 2, which adds a host of features such as keyless ride and launch control. There is also an IMU that enables cornering function for the cruise control, traction control, ABS, Drag Torque Control and Slop Dependent Control. 2025 TVS Apache RTR 310: How is the handling and ride quality? Braking duties are done by a disc in the front as well as at the rear. There is dual-channel ABS on offer along with cornering function with the BTO kit. The Apache RTR 310 continues to be a fantastic handler in the corners. If you are an aggressive rider, then you might scrape the footpegs a bit too soon. It continues to use Michelin Road 5 tyres, which are amazing. They are sticky, provide an ample amount of feedback and stability as well. The brakes are strong, and the rear ABS intervenes only when you stomp on the brake pedal hard. Speaking of ABS, there is also a Supermoto mode that disables the ABS on the rear wheel. The ride quality of the Apache RTR 310 continues to be absorbent while being confident through the corners. However, the seat is very firm and will cause aches. 2025 TVS Apache RTR 310: Verdict The 2025 TVS Apache RTR 310 builds on the solid foundation laid by its predecessor, evolving subtly but meaningfully in key areas that matter to riders. While the design remains largely unchanged, the refreshed colour palette offers some visual freshness. More importantly, TVS has clearly paid attention to rider feedback, addressing one of the bike's main criticisms — vibrations. The changes to the sprocket, improved throttle mapping, and refined fueling make it a smoother machine, though some buzziness still lingers at higher revs. The RTR 310 shares its underpinnings with the RR 310. TVS has also stepped up its game on the tech. In essence, the 2025 Apache RTR 310 doesn't reinvent itself but sharpens the experience it offers. It's still a compelling option for those who want an aggressive and tech-laden streetfighter in the sub-400cc segment. With the added features and refinements, it now feels more complete and better equipped than ever to challenge rivals in the crowded 300cc naked bike space. This is important considering where TVS has positioned the Apache RTR 310. It has an introductory price of between ₹ 2.40 lakh and ₹ 2.85 lakh. This is very close to the KTM Duke 390, which is considered to be in a league of its own and costs ₹ 2.97 lakh. On the other hand, there is the Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z priced at ₹ 1.92 lakh. All prices mentioned here are ex-showroom. First Published Date: 21 Jul 2025, 08:00 am IST
