Discover the next generation of sub-4-meter SUV coming to India, including Skoda’s new entry in this fiercely competitive market and the daring Mahindra XUV300 facelift.
SUV
SUV: One of the car manufacturers’ most fiercely contested battlegrounds is the Indian compact SUV market. There will soon be a tonne of new compact SUV launches, which will only heighten the excitement. There will be updated versions of current models and completely new options as well.
The following five up-and-coming competitors are expected to cause a stir in 2024 and 2025:
Mahindra XUV300 facelift
Launch: Mid-2024
In order to remain competitive, Mahindra is updating the XUV300. Redesigned LED daytime running lamps, an updated front fascia, and a bolder nose are just a few of the bolder design elements of the facelift. A new tailboard with a full-width LED light bar and C-shaped tail lamps will be part of the complete redesign of the back. The available engine choices are still the same: a 1.5-liter diesel, a 1.2-liter turbocharged petrol engine, and a 1.2-liter TGDI petrol engine with a brand-new 6-speed automated gearbox.
Mahindra XUV300 EV
Launch: Mid-2024
In an effort to capitalise on the expanding market for electric vehicles, Mahindra will also introduce an electric variant of the redesigned XUV300. It will have a design similar to the ICE facelift, but there are few details available about the electric drivetrain. It is anticipated, nevertheless, to include a 35kWh battery pack with an unspecified range.
new Skoda compact SUV
Launch: Early 2025
Finally, Skoda is making a move into the Indian market with a new product, which is anticipated to launch in March 2025. Skoda promises a roomy offering despite being late to the party, based on the MQB-A0-IN platform (used in the Kushaq). It will be powered by the potent 1.0-liter TSI engine, though a larger 1.5-liter engine option is possible (though this is unlikely given concerns about cost and practicality). With its split headlamp configuration and sweeping taillights akin to the Kodiaq, the design will highlight Skoda’s new design philosophy.
Kia Clavis
Launch: Sometime in 2025
Kia surprised us by registering the name “Clavis” as a trademark in India close to the end of 2023. Though there are many conjectures regarding this enigmatic car, no information is available. Based on the Hyundai Exter’s platform and using the same powertrain options as the latter, some speculate that it may be a micro-SUV to compete with the well-liked Tata Punch.
Next-gen Hyundai Venue
Launch: Sometime in 2025
When the Hyundai Venue was first released in 2019, it quickly became popular. The next generation model is anticipated to launch in 2025, marking the appropriate moment for a significant redesign. This vehicle will be the first to leave Hyundai’s recently acquired Talegaon factory. Although specifics are limited, the Venue is probably getting a full redesign, even though the engine choices might stay the same as on the current model.
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