Get ready for the arrival of 10 exciting new SUVs that are set to make a splash in the automotive market over the next 2-3 months. The first half of 2023 already witnessed some thrilling launches like the MG Comet EV, Hyundai Exter, Maruti Suzuki’s Fronx, Jimny, and Engage. However, the coming months will see even more action, particularly in the SUV segment, with multiple product unveilings and launches. Let’s take a closer look at these upcoming SUVs.
Kia Seltos Facelift – Coming Weeks
The Kia Seltos facelift has been unveiled and bookings have begun at authorized Kia dealerships. The interior has received significant upgrades, and the SUV comes with features like the ADAS suite, dual-zone climate control, panoramic sunroof, dual-screen setup, and a new dashboard. Design enhancements include a new front grille, revised headlamps with new DRLs, a larger front bumper, newly-designed dual-tone alloy wheels, L-shaped taillamps, and a tweaked rear bumper. The new Seltos will offer three engine options: 1.5L NA petrol, 1.5L turbo petrol, and 1.5L diesel.
Tata Nexon Facelift – August
The Tata Nexon and Nexon EV are ready for mid-life updates. The subcompact SUV will feature a new and larger 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. Some features, such as a two-spoke, flat-bottom steering wheel with an illuminated logo and a new 7-inch digital instrument cluster, will be borrowed from the Tata Curvv concept. The 2023 Tata Nexon facelift will also introduce a DCT (dual-clutch transmission) gearbox and offer the new 1.2L turbo petrol engine along with the existing 1.5L diesel unit.
Tata Punch CNG – August/Sep
Tata’s twin-cylinder CNG technology, first seen in the Altroz-CNG hatchback, will now be used in the Tata Punch CNG, set to be launched in the next couple of months. This model will feature the same 1.2L Revotron engine with a factory-fitted CNG kit, with the twin cylinders placed below the luggage area. Safety enhancements include an improved rear body structure and a 6-point mounting system for the CNG tanks. The Tata Punch CNG will have a micro-switch that turns off during refueling.
Honda Elevate – September
One of the highly anticipated new SUVs, the Honda Elevate, will go on sale in the coming months. Surprisingly, there are no plans for a hybrid version of the Elevate. The SUV will be powered by a 1.5L petrol engine and offered with a 6-speed manual or a CVT automatic gearbox. It delivers 121bhp and 145Nm of torque. The lineup will feature 7 single-tone and 3 dual-tone color schemes, with top-end ZX trim offering features like Honda Sensing – ADAS tech, brown leatherette upholstery, auto-dimming IRVM, an 8-speaker audio system, a 10.25-inch HD touchscreen display, and 6 airbags.
Toyota Rumion – By September
Expected to arrive in September 2023, the Toyota Rumion is essentially a re-badged Maruti Suzuki Ertiga. It will feature Toyota’s signature grille, badges, and newly-designed alloy wheels, while the overall appearance remains similar to its donor model. Inside, you can expect a black-themed interior with three-row seating configuration. The MPV will offer a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, Suzuki Connect connected features, a 6-speaker audio system, automatic AC, rear parking sensors, electronic stability program, Isofix anchorages, hill hold assist, and more.
Citroen C3 Aircross – October
Citroen India is set to challenge midsize SUVs like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti, and Toyota with its all-new C3 Aircross. It will be powered by a 1.2L turbo petrol engine mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox, delivering 110bhp and 190Nm of torque. The new Citroen SUV shares some features with the C3 hatchback, including a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. The C3 Aircross will be offered in both 5-seater and 7-seater variants, with luggage capacities of 444-litres and 511-litres, respectively.
Tata Harrier/Safari Facelifts – October
Tata Motors plans to update its existing model lineup this year, with the Harrier and Safari facelifts expected to go on sale in October 2023. Rumors suggest these SUVs might be equipped with Tata’s new 1.5L turbo direct injection petrol engine, offering 170bhp and 280Nm of torque. ADAS tech will be available on higher trims, and the design will also see a few changes.
Force Gurkha 5-Door – By October
The 5-door version of the Force Gurkha has been undergoing testing for over a year, and its market launch is eagerly awaited. Styling-wise, it will be similar to the 3-door Gurkha, but its square-ish headlamps and front bumper will resemble the Force Citiline MUV. The 5-door Gurkha will be available with three seating arrangements: 5-seats, 6-seats, and 7-seats. It will be powered by the same 2.6L Mercedes-sourced diesel engine paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox.
Mahindra Bolero Neo Plus – October
The Mahindra Bolero Neo Plus, which has been undergoing testing for over a year, is essentially a longer version of the Bolero Neo SUV with the same design language, features, and engine. It will be offered in five trims and two seating configurations: 7-seats and 9-seats. Additionally, there will be a dedicated ambulance version with a seating capacity of four passengers and a patient bed. The Bolero Neo Plus will be powered by the same 100bhp, 1.5L diesel engine found in the Bolero Neo, paired with an automatic gearbox.
