Due to rising fuel prices and narrowing gap between petrol & diesel prices, automakers have decided to promote petrol cars. Brands like Volkswagen, Skoda, Renault, Nissan and Maruti Suzuki have decided to completely cease diesel engine production in India. Volkswagen and Skoda will also introduce new cars and SUVs with petrol engine only. Here is a list of top 3 upcoming new mid-sized SUVs, which will be offered with petrol engine option.
Skoda Kushaq
Skoda will launch an all-new mid-sized SUV, called the Kushaq in the second quarter of 2021. The new model will mark the debut of new MQB AO IN platform in India. This platform will also underpin the VW Taigun, Next-gen Skoda Rapid and the Vento replacement. It will measure close to 4.25 meters in length, and will have a segment-largest 2,671mm wheelbase.
The Skoda Kushaq will be offered in two engine options – a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol and a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol. While the former is good for 108bhp of power and 175Nm of torque, the 1.5L turbo unit offers 147bhp of power and 250Nm of torque. Transmission choices will include a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed torque convertor automatic and a 7-speed DSG automatic (1.5L Petrol).
MG ZS
MG Motors is testing the petrol-powered ZS mid-sized on the Indian roads. The SUV is likely to be launched in mid-2021. It will be positioned against the Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta and the upcoming SKoda Kushaq and the VW Taigun. The mid-sized SUV is expected to be equipped with a similar set of features as the ZS EV offers. It will get a panoramic sunroof, automatic AC, a large touchscreen infotainment system, cruise control and others.
It is likely to be offered with two petrol engine options – a 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated petrol and a 1.3-litre direct-injection turbo. While the former is good for 118bhp and 150Nm of torque, the turbocharged engine pushes out 161bhp and 230Nm of torque. The naturally-aspirated engine will be paired to a 5-speed MT, while the turbo unit will come with 6-speed manual or a torque convertor automatic.
Volkswagen Taigun
Volkswagen will launch the Taigun mid-sized SUV in the second half of 2021. It is based on the heavily localised MQB AO IN platform. It was first previewed as the pre-production concept at the 2020 Auto Expo. The SUV will be equipped with several high-end features such as a touchscreen infotainment system, digital instrument console, cruise control, automatic AC, powered seats and others. Not just platform, the Taigun will also share the engine and gearbox options with the Kushaq.
