The sub-4 meter SUV segment is all set to welcome multiple new products in the next couple of years. Volkswagen Group and Honda are also planning to enter the sub-4 meter SUV segment with their respective models by 2024-25. Moreover, multiple compact SUV EVs will also go on sale in the country in the near future. In this article, we bring you a list of top 3 upcoming compact SUVs in the country in first half of 2023 –
Maruti Jimny
Maruti Suzuki will finally launch the Jimny lifestyle SUV in the country in 2023. The company will introduce the 5-door version of the mini off-roader, which has already been spotted several times on the Indian roads. Scheduled to make global debut at the Auto Expo 2023, the new 5-door Jimny will rival the Mahindra Thar, Force Gurkha and others in its category. Based on the Jimny Sierra, the new 5-door Jimny will measure 3,850mm in length, 1,645mm in width and 1,730mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 2,550mm. The wheelbase has been increased by 300mm, while the overall length will be increased by 300mm.
The new Jimny 5-door will be powered by a 1.5-litre K15C naturally-aspirated petrol engine with a mild hybrid set-up. This engine is capable of producing 101bhp and 137Nm of torque. Transmission choices will include a 5-speed manual and a 6-speed torque convertor automatic. The new Jimny 5-door will come fitted with Suzuki’s AllGrip Pro AWD setup, which is the most capable version of Suzuki’s AllGrip tech. The AllGrip Pro AWD setup comes with a low-ratio gear that multiplies engine torque and limits speeds, and improves the off-road driving.
Maruti YTB/ Toyota SUV Coupe
Maruti Suzuki is developing a new crossover, codenamed YTB for the Indian market. The new model will be based on the Suzuki’s HEARTECT platform that underpins the new Baleno. Rumoured to be called the Maruti Baleno cross, the new crossover will be sold through NEXA premium dealership network. Scheduled to be unveiled at Auto Expo 2023 in January, the new Baleno Cross is reportedly to be launched in February. It will rival the likes of the Nissan Magnite, Renault Kiger, Hyundai Venue, and others. Similar to the Hyryder & Grand Vitara, Toyota will also have its own version of the crossover. The Toyota’s version is expected to share styling cues from the global Yaris Cross.
The new Baleno cross will share the styling cues from the Futuro e concept unveiled at Auto Expo 2020. It will share the cabin layout and features with the Baleno hatchback. It is likely to be powered by a new 1.0-litre Boosterjet petrol engine that is likely to produce around 100bhp and 150Nm of torque. The engine could get a 48V mild hybrid SHVS system with integrated starter generator.
Hyundai Micro SUV
Hyundai will launch a new micro SUV in the country in mid-2023, before festive season. Codenamed Ai3 CUV, the new model will be based on the Grand i10 Nios that underpins the global-spec Casper micro SUV. It is likely to be unveiled at the 2023 Auto Expo. The new model will rival the likes of the Tata Punch, Nissan Magnite and the Renault Kiger. Hyundai plans to manufacture 50,000 units of this model annually. It is expected that the new Hyundai SUV will share the interior and features with the Grand i10 Nios and the Venue compact SUV.
The new Hyundai SUV is expected to be powered by a 1.2-litre 4-cylinder naturally-aspirated petrol engine that powers the Grand i10 Nios, Venue, Aura and the i20. This engine churns out 82bhp and 114Nm of torque. Transmission choices are likely to include a 5-speed manual and an AMT. The subcompact SUV could also get a CNG option.
