The Indian auto industry is going through a very tough phase, as COVID-19 pandemic forced them to shut their manufacturing units. Not just factories, sales have declined drastically and dealerships are facing existential crisis. On the other hand, people are now opting for person mobility over shared. In this article, we talk about the top 3 upcoming new entry-level cars for the first first time car buyers in the Indian market –
Tata HBX
Tata Motors will launch its smallest SUV based on the HBX concept before Diwali 2021. Rumoured to be called Tata Timero, the new model will cost around Rs 5 lakh to Rs 8 lakh. The Tata HBX based SUV will prove to be an affordable alternative to hatchbacks on sale in the Indian market. The new model will measure close to 3.8 meters in length, and will offer seat for 4 adults. It will be powered by a 1.2-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine that produces 86bhp of power and 110Nm of torque. Transmission options will include a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT.
Expected Price – Rs 5 lakh to Rs 8 lakh
Competition – Maruti Ignis, Mahindra KUV100 NXT
New Maruti Celerio
Maruti Suzuki will launch the second generation Celerio hatchback in the third quarter of 2021. The new model will be based on the HEARTECT platform, which also underpins the S-Presso and the Wagon R. Going by the spy images, it is clear that the new model will significantly grow in size and will offer seat for 5 adults. The hatchback is likely to be priced around Rs 4.5 lakh to Rs 7 lakh, which will make it a direct rival to Hyundai Santro and Tata Tiago. It will be offered with two engine options – a 82bhp, 1.2L petrol and a 67bhp, 1.0L petrol. Transmission choices will include a 5-speed MT & a 5-speed AMT.
Expected Price – Rs 4.5 lakh to Rs 7 lakh
Competition – Tata Tiago, Hyundai Santro
Hyundai AX1
Korean automaker, Hyundai will enter into the small SUV category with a new model, codenamed AX1. This model has already been spotted testing in South Korea and in Europe. To be positioned below Venue, the new Hyundai AX1 micro SUV will be positioned against the Maruti Suzuki Ignis, Tata HBX and the Mahindra KUV100 NXT. It is likely to be priced around Rs 4.5 lakh to Rs 7 lakh. The new model is likely to be powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine that also powers the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios. This engine produces 82bhp and 113Nm of torque. Transmission options will include a 5-speed manual and an AMT.
Expected Price – Rs 4.5 lakh to Rs 7 lakh
Competition – Maruti Ignis, Mahindra KUV100 NXT
