4 Upcoming SUVs to Rival Maruti Grand Vitara and Kia Seltos

India’s compact SUV segment is considered one of the most competitive markets, dominated by flagship models like the Maruti Grand Vitara, Hyundai Creta, and Kia Seltos, which are currently the best-selling SUVs in India. The newly launched Honda Elevate i

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India’s compact SUV segment is considered one of the most competitive markets, dominated by flagship models like the Maruti Grand Vitara, Hyundai Creta, and Kia Seltos, which are currently the best-selling SUVs in India. The newly launched Honda Elevate is also getting a good response. According to analysts, the competition among these automakers will significantly increase after the launch of upcoming SUVs in India. Let’s briefly examine some of the most anticipated SUV launches in the coming years.

1. New Hyundai Creta

Hyundai officially announced its new Creta SUV launch in India in early 2024. The new version of Creta is available in select international markets. However, the India-spec model will likely have some distinct features compared to other models in different markets. The SUV is also expected to get a new design language, with a more modern and stylish look, including a new front grille and split headlamp setup. The Creta facelift would get an upgraded interior with some similarities to the Hyundai Verna. The SUV is also anticipated to have ADAS technology in the new Verna.

Talking about features, the new Creta will feature two screens, one for the infotainment system and another for the digital instrument console. The SUV will feature updated steering wheels, an electrically adjustable driver seat, fully ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The buyers can expect three powertrain options: 1.5L NA petrol engine capable of delivering 114 bhp power, 1.5-liter turbo diesel with 114bph of power output, and 1.5-liter turbo petrol with 158 bhp of rated engine power. The SUV can be offered in multiple transmission options, including manual, CVT, torque convertors, iMT (intelligent manual transmission), and dual-clutch.

2. Tata Curvv

Tata Curvv is another upcoming compact SUV in the Indian market. The production version of the Curvv SUV will be launched in the first half of 2024. Tata Motors first introduced the model with an electric powertrain option, while the internal combustion engine will join the lineup soon after the launch of the EV version. The Curvv will get a similar design to the concept version, except for some production design changes. This upcoming Tata SUV will have a layered dashboard with a bigger touchscreen infotainment system.

There will be several features, like a touch-based panel for climate control functions, ventilated front seats, and an electrically adjustable driver seat. Tata Curvv SUV will also get ADAS technology similar to the features offered in Tata Harrier and Safari. The electric version of Curvv will get a larger battery pack to deliver an average range of 400 km, while the latter model will be launched with a 1.5-liter turbo petrol engine capable of delivering 170 PS and 280 Nm torque.

3. 3rd Gen Renault Duster

The 3rd Gen Renault Duster will launch in India by 2025. The new Renault Duster will be unveiled in November 2023 with a Dacia nameplate. However, the SUV will be sold in India with a Renault nameplate. The new Duster will be larger, providing more space in the second row and boot area. The current models of Duster are based on the aging BO+ platform, while the new-gen Duster SUV will likely be based on the new CMF-B modular architecture.

The platform is available in Renault Clio/Captur, Dacia Sandero/jogger, and Nissan Juke. It will be a seven-seater SUV and directly rival the Tata Safari, Hyundai Alcazar, and Mahindra XUV700. The model is expected to measure 4.4-4.5 meters long and packs a 1.0-liter 3-cylinder turbo engine. It would receive a self-charging hybrid that is typically offered in Jogger. The hybrid version combines a 1.6-liter NA petrol engine with two electric motors, featuring a 1.2kW battery and multi-mode gearbox, to deliver a combined power of 138 bhp and a maximum range of 900 km. Renault will also offer AWD to retain its off-road capabilities.

4. Nissan SUV

Nissan is also expected to introduce its upcoming SUV in India. The SUV can be based on the CMF-B platform, and the model can be launched with a new name and as a replacement for the Kicks. The new SUV could share some similarities with the Renault Duster.

However, the automaker will make some changes to offer fresh options to customers. The interior of Nissan’s upcoming SUV will be spacious, feature-rich, and stylish. The 7-seater SUV can get a similar powertrain setup as expected in the new-gen Duster.

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