Latest SUV's in India

Top 10 latest launched SUVs in India

Since the last few decades, SUVs (Sports Utility Vehicle) are ruling the Indian automobile market, thanks to their incredible power, reliable engines, outstanding off-roading capabilities, pleasurable riding dynamics, enviable boot space, and impressive mileage. The year 2020 is no different, and this category of automobiles have captured the interest of buyers in both national and global markets. Check out the top 10 latest launched SUVs in India which you can add to your fleet without any doubts.  

1.   Kia Sonet

Kia Sonet, priced between Rs 6.72 lakh to Rs 12.89 lakh is one of the best offerings from the South Korean automaker’s stable. The sub-4 metre SUV is available in two trims- Tech Line and GT Line, and six variants- HTE, HTK, HTK+, HTX, HTX+ and GTX+ to fit everyone’s pocket. The front fascia looks appealing with the iconic ‘Tiger Nose’ grille, flanked on both sides by crown jewel LED headlamps and heart-shaped LED DRL’s. Under the hood, you get three types of motor options- an 83PS 1.2-litre petrol, a 120PS 1.0-litre turbo petrol, and a 1.5-litre diesel mill. The premium 1.5-litre diesel variant is available both in the manual as well as automatic transmission. Kia has also installed a 10.25-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a 7-speaker Bose sound system so that you never get bored during long drives.  

2.   MG Hector Plus

MG Hector Plus is a superb 6-seater SUV launched in July 2020 after showcasing the vehicle at the Auto Expo 2020. It is the third offering from Morris Garages (MG) in India after a highly successful stint with the MG Hector and the MG ZS EV. The price tag of this four-wheeler ranges between Rs 13.73 lakh to Rs 18.68 lakh (ex-showroom) and is available in four versions- Style, Super, Smart, and Sharp. The SUV also has three powertrain options- a 143PS 1.5-litre petrol motor, a 170PS 2.0-litre diesel oil burner, and a 143PS 1.5-litre hybrid mill. The feature-rich SUV remains equipped with a 10.4-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, panoramic sunroof, climate control, and 7.0-inch full-colour instrument cluster. 

3.   Hyundai Venue

While talking about the latest launched SUVs in India, it is challenging to go ahead without mentioning the name of Hyundai Venue. The South Korean auto-giant introduced this automobile in the India market in May 2019, and it immediately captured the attention of auto buyers thanks to its competitive pricing and enviable feature-list. Under the hood you get a BS-6 upgraded, 998cc, 3 Cylinders Inline, 1.0 l Kappa Turbo GDi motor in the premium trim, churning out 118 bhp @ 6000 rpm, and 172 Nm @ 1500 rpm of peak torque. A 7-speed automatic gearbox performs the transmission duties in this SUV. The diesel versions offer an impressive mileage of 23.4kmpl, while you can ride at 18.2kmpl with the petrol ones. The automobile also demonstrates a rich feature-list comprising of 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, a wireless phone charger, six airbags, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors. 

4.   Tata Harrier

Tata Harrier is also a strong contender, among the SUVs launched during 2019-2020. It is curranty available in eight variants: XE, XM, XT, XT+, XZ, XZ+, XMA, XZA and XZA+, including dual tone and automatic gearbox options. The pricing of the popular four-wheeler ranges between Rs 13.84 lakh and Rs 20.30 lakh (ex-showroom). It gets powered by a BS-6 compliant, Kryotec 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel motor, generating 167.67bhp@3750rpm, and 350Nm@1750-2500rpm peak torque. The power gets channelled to the wheels through a 6-speed automatic gearbox in higher trims. The presence of 425 litres boot space makes enough room available for carrying luggage during family trips.  

5.   Kia Seltos 2020

Kia has relaunched the Seltos 2020 with 10 new enviable features. Though the automaker has hiked the prices by Rs 30000, customers are not complaining thanks to the stunning exteriors and top-notch interiors. Kia has currently discontinued the GTK MT and GTX DCT variants. So, now you can select between HTE, HTK, HTK+, HTX, HTX+, GTX and GTX+ variants to upgrade your fleet. It gets powered by 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol mill, delivering 138 bhp @ 6000 rpm, and a peak torque of 242 Nm @ 1500 rpm in the GT line trims. The oil burner remains paired to 7-speed automatic gearbox for the premium driving experience. 

6.   Mahindra Thar 2020

Mahindra Thar 2020 is expected to hit the Indian market on 2nd October 2020. The revamped SUV will come with an estimated price tag between Rs 12.00 lakh to 15.00 lakh. It will be available in three variants- AX, AX Optional and LX. The reincarnated model is aeons ahead in terms of design, performance, riding dynamics, and safety features. Roaring under the hood of Thar 2020 is a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged petrol mill, generating 150bhp and 300Nm of torque. There is also a BS6-compliant, 2.2-litre diesel option available delivering 130bhp and 300Nm of torque. The 4X4 SUV demonstrates outstanding off-roading capabilities to manoeuvre across hilly tracks and potholed roads. 

7.   Tata Gravitas

Tata is also planning to introduce its premium SUV- Gravitas on Indian roads in November 2020. The home-grown auto giant showcased this vehicle during the Auto Expo 2020, and auto-enthusiasts found it as a bigger version of Harrier with the third row of seats. You can expect a price range between Rs 18.00 lakh to 23.00 lakh for this top-notch SUV. The feature includes projector headlamps with LED DRLs, sunroof, 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, automatic climate control, and a 9-speaker JBL sound system. It gets powered by a BS6-compliant 2.0-litre motor, which churns out 170PS and 350Nm. 

8.   Hyundai Creta 2020

Since its inception, the Creta has been a runaway success for Hyundai registering about 10,000 units sales every month. It was even the highest selling SUV in India for quite some time. The reincarnated models of this SUV would cost between Rs 9.99 lakh and Rs 17.20 lakh, and boast a host of premium features, including a panoramic sunroof and a Bose audio system. The four-wheeler will come in five variants- E, EX, S, SX, and SX(O). The Premium trim will get powered by a BS-6 compliant, 1.4-litre turbo-petrol engine, churning out 140PS maximum power and 242Nm of peak torque. 

9.   Mahindra XUV500 2020

According to the latest news from Dr Pawan Goenka- Managing Director of Mahindra, the XUV500 2020 will hit the Indian market at the beginning of 2021. The revamped SUV will portrait a more upright nose, restyled tailgate, panoramic sunroof, a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and an all-digital instrument cluster. Under the hood, it will bear BS6-compliant 2.0-litre petrol or diesel motor. The power gets channelled to the wheels by a 6-speed manual or automatic gearboxes.  

10.    Jeep Compass

Jeep India has recently introduced a Compass Night Eagle Edition, with a price tag of Rs 20.14 lakh to Rs 23.31 lakh. It remains based on Longitude Plus variant and is available in four attractive shades- Exotica Red, Vocal White, Magnesio Grey, and Brilliant Black. Powering this SUV are 163PS 1.4-litre petrol engine and 170PS 2.0-litre diesel mills with exclusive 4x4 drivetrains. Since it boasts of exceptional off-roading capabilities, the manufacturer has implemented four airbags, rear parking sensors, ABS with EBD, and Traction Control System (TCS), so that the safety of riders never get compromised. So, these were the top 10 latest launched SUVs in India. Head to your nearest showroom to test drive them and upgrade your fleet

Hero MotoCorp has launched the updated 2024 Xtreme 160R 4V, priced at ₹1.38 lakh (ex-showroom). The new Xtreme 160R 4V includes significant upgrades such as dual-channel ABS, a redesigned pillion seat, new paint schemes, and enhanced safety features. The 160cc segment has always been lucrative, and the 2024 Xtreme 160R 4V aims to strike a balance between style and substance for buyers.

In June 2023, Hero MotoCorp introduced the Xtreme 160R with features like USD telescopic front forks, a 4V head, and an oil-cooling setup. Despite these improvements, enthusiasts called for dual-channel ABS, which has now been included in the 2024 Xtreme 160R 4V. The new Xtreme 160R 4V also features a refreshed design, with a new Kevlar Brown color option, in addition to the existing Neon Shooting Star and Stealth Black.

The most noticeable design update is the new black and bronze colorway with striking decals. The split seat design has been replaced with a single-piece seat for enhanced comfort. Additionally, there is a new LED tail light that looks more modern and premium. The 2024 model of the Xtreme 160R 4V also introduces a first-in-segment panic brake alert system that enhances safety by flashing the rear lights during emergency braking.

New Features of the 2024 Hero Xtreme 160R 4V:

Dual-channel ABS: Increases safety and completes the bike's feature set.
Panic Brake Alert: First-in-segment feature that flashes rear lights under emergency braking.
Drag Race Timer: New feature for recording 0-60 km/h sprints.
  
The powertrain remains the same, with a 163.2cc single-cylinder oil-cooled SOHC 4V engine delivering 16.6 bhp and 14.6 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed gearbox. The primary competitors for the 2024 Hero Xtreme 160R 4V include the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V and Honda Hornet 2.0.

Ather Energy has made a significant entry into the family scooter market with the launch of the Rizta in India. This new electric scooter is available with two battery pack options: 2.9 kWh and 3.7 kWh. While the deliveries of the 2.9 kWh variant have already begun, there was a delay with the 3.7 kWh version. However, Ather has announced that deliveries of the Rizta 3.7 kWh will start by the end of July.

Impressive Range and Charging

The 3.7 kWh battery pack offers a claimed range of up to 159 km. However, in real-world conditions, the range is expected to be around 125 km on a single charge. The scooter comes with Ather's Duo 700W charger, which charges the battery from 0 to 80 percent in 4 hours, and from 0 to 100 percent in 6 hours and 10 minutes. Using the Ather Grid, you can recharge 15 km of range in just 10 minutes. The battery pack is also IP67 dust and water-resistant, ensuring durability in various conditions.

Powerful Motor and Performance

The Rizta is powered by the same electric motor found in the 450X model. This motor delivers a peak power of 4.3 kW and a peak torque output of 22 Nm. It can accelerate from 0 to 40 kmph in just 4.7 seconds. The electric motor is IP66 resistant, providing additional protection against dust and water.

Advanced Features

The 3.7 kWh version of the Rizta comes with several advanced features. One of the highlights is the Magic Twist feature, which allows the rider to increase brake regeneration by twisting the throttle in the opposite direction. Additionally, the scooter includes Skid Control, which functions as a traction control system to enhance safety.

The Rizta S base model is equipped with the DeepView LCD instrument console from the 450S, which includes turn-by-turn navigation. In contrast, the Z variants feature a TFT screen with Google Maps navigation. It's worth noting that the S trim comes with a standard seat and does not include a pillion backrest, while the Z trim offers a standard pillion backrest and a premium seat.

With these features and options, Ather Energy aims to cater to a wide range of customers looking for a reliable and advanced electric scooter. Many eagerly anticipate the upcoming deliveries of the 3.7 kWh version.

Maruti Suzuki has unveiled its latest offering in the hatchback segment, the Ignis Radiance Edition, with prices starting at Rs 5.49 lakh. The Ignis Radiance edition comes as part of the company's strategy to revitalize sales in the mass market segment, which has experienced a slowdown recently.

The Ignis Radiance Edition brings cosmetic enhancements to the popular hatchback, with variations based on the trim level:

• Entry-level Sigma trim: Priced Rs 35,000 lower than the standard model, it includes wheel covers for 15-inch steel wheels, door visors, and chrome accents.
• Higher-spec Zeta and top-spec Alpha trims: Also priced Rs 35,000 lower, these variants feature new seat covers, black cushions, door cladding, and door visors.

Notably, the mid-spec Delta variant is not available in the Radiance Edition line-up.

The Ignis Radiance Edition retains the same mechanical specifications as the standard model. It is powered by an 83hp, 1.2-litre petrol engine, offering both manual and AMT gearbox options to cater to diverse driver preferences.

In the competitive hatchback market, the Ignis Radiance Edition faces off against rivals such as the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios and Citroen C3. It also competes with other Maruti Suzuki models like the Wagon R, Swift, and Baleno.

With its attractive pricing and added features, the Ignis Radiance Edition aims to appeal to budget-conscious buyers looking for a refreshed look in the small car segment. The introduction of this special edition model demonstrates Maruti Suzuki's efforts to maintain its strong position in the Indian automotive market.

Key Highlights:

• Total turnover reaches Rs. 6.14 lakh crore (USD 74.1 billion)

• 9.8% growth over the previous year

• Robust performance in both domestic and export markets

• Sales to OEMs Boosted by Increased Vehicle Production

In FY 2023-24, sales of auto components to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) in India surged by 8.9%, reaching Rs. 5.18 lakh crore (USD 62.4 billion). This growth was driven by the increased production of vehicles, higher consumption of value-added components, and a market shift towards larger and more powerful vehicles.

Export Performance

Exports of auto components grew by 5.5%, totaling Rs. 21.2 billion (USD) in 2023-24, compared to USD 20.1 billion in the previous year. Key markets included North America, which accounted for 32% of exports, showing a growth of 4.5%. Europe and Asia followed, with Europe growing by 12% and Asia remaining flat. The primary export items were drive transmission & steering, engine components, body & chassis, and suspension & braking systems.

Import Trends

Imports of auto components also saw an increase, rising by 3.0% to USD 20.9 billion from USD 20.3 billion in the previous year. Asia was the largest supplier, accounting for 66% of imports, followed by Europe and North America at 26% and 8%, respectively. Key import items included engine components, body & chassis, suspension & braking systems, and drive transmission & steering.

Aftermarket Growth

The aftermarket sector experienced a significant boost due to the increased movement of vehicles and higher demand for used vehicles. The turnover in this segment reached Rs. 93,886 crore (USD 11.3 billion) in FY 2023-24, up from Rs. 85,333 crore (USD 10.6 billion) in the previous year. This growth was attributed to enhanced e-commerce penetration and the sector's gradual evolution into a more organized structure.

Industry Outlook

Vinnie Mehta, Director General of ACMA, highlighted the positive impact of stable vehicle production and the robust aftermarket on the industry's growth. Shraddha Suri Marwah, President of ACMA and CMD of Subros, emphasized the contribution of higher value addition from component makers and the growth in auto component exports despite global challenges. The industry remains optimistic for FY 2025, expecting continued growth supported by strong macro-economic indicators, government policies, and an anticipated over 7% growth in Indian GDP.

Carbike360 Says

The Indian auto component industry has shown remarkable resilience and growth in FY 2023-24, driven by robust vehicle production, strong export performance, and a thriving aftermarket sector. The outlook for the coming year remains positive, with expectations of sustained growth and further industry consolidation.

Renault has introduced the all-new Duster in Turkey, marking its global debut. The Turkish plant serves as the primary production hub for the new Renault Duster. The new Duster showcases slight styling variations compared to its Dacia counterpart, particularly in the front fascia, featuring a unique radiator grille and bold 'RENAULT' lettering replacing the rhombus logo.

Key features of the new Renault Duster include:

• Length: 4,343 mm
• Wheelbase: 2,658 mm
• Ground clearance: 209 to 217 mm

The Duster SUV is available in two trim levels: Evolution and Techno. Standard features include:

• 17-inch wheels (18-inch optional)
• LED lights
• 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• 7-inch digital instrument cluster
• Comprehensive safety package

The new Duster offers three powertrain options:

1. 1.0 TCe LPG dual-fuel engine (100 hp)
2. Full hybrid E-Tech powertrain (145 hp)
3. Mild hybrid setup with 1.2 TCe turbo petrol engine (130 hp)

Pricing for the new Renault Duster in Turkey starts at 1,249,000 Liras (approximately Rs 32 lakh) for the base LPG variant. The E-Tech hybrid range begins at 1,530,000 Liras (around Rs 39 lakh), while the mild hybrid all-wheel drive version starts at 1,580,000 Liras (about Rs 40 lakh).

The India launch of the new-gen Duster is anticipated in 2025. However, the Indian version may differ slightly from the international model in terms of styling and powertrain options. Upon its arrival, the Renault Duster 2024 will compete in the popular compact SUV segment in India.

Kia India is enhancing its flexible mobility solutions by adding the EV6 to its popular ‘Kia Lease’ program. This follows the program's successful debut, which has already gained considerable traction within just two months.

Exclusive Lease Plan for Key Professionals

The lease plan for the Kia EV6 is available at a special rate of INR 1.29 Lakhs per month. This comprehensive package includes insurance, maintenance, pick-up and drop services, scheduled and unscheduled services, and 24/7 roadside assistance (RSA).

The EV6 lease program is exclusively offered to:

• Doctors: Registered with the Indian Medical Association (IMA) or a state medical association, and heads of registered medical institutions, hospitals, or clinics.

• Chartered Accountants: Registered with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) and heads of CA firms or ICAI members.

• Self-employed Professionals: Including a select group of corporates.

Impressive Features of the EV6

The Kia EV6 stands out with its sleek and modern design, impressive performance, and range. It offers a remarkable driving range of up to 708 km and supports fast charging from 0 to 80% in just 18 minutes using a 350kW charger. The vehicle also delivers sporty performance, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds.

Safety is a top priority with the EV6, which comes equipped with 8 airbags, an ADAS Level 2 suite, and other advanced safety features such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC), blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera system.

Kia's Commitment to Sustainable Mobility

Mr. Myung-Sik Sohn, Chief Sales Officer (CSO), Kia India, commented, “The Kia Lease program has seen significant success in Metro and Tier I cities. Adding the EV6 highlights our dedication to meeting customer demands and providing advanced technology along with sustainable mobility solutions. The positive feedback reassures us of the program's future potential and our goal to make our vehicles more accessible.”

About the Kia Lease Program

In partnership with ORIX Auto Infrastructure Services Limited, Kia India launched the Kia Lease program to offer a new ownership experience. The program is designed for those with extended mobility needs, providing lease terms from 24 to 60 months with various mileage options. Besides the EV6, the program offers lease plans for other Kia models such as the Sonet, Seltos, and Carens at INR 17,999, 23,999, and 24,999 per month, respectively.