Tata Nexon was introduced in 2017 as India’s first crossover SUV, and since then, it has undergone two mid-life updates (first in 2020 and the second one in 2023). Currently, it holds the title of the top-selling SUV in the country, surpassing cars like the Maruti Suzuki Brezza and Hyundai Creta. In the sub-4 meter SUV segment, three existing Nexon rivals are poised to receive updates, including the Mahindra XUV300, Magnite, and Kiger. Skoda also plans to enter this segment in early 2025. Let’s delve into the key details of these upcoming Tata Nexon rival SUVs.
Upcoming Tata Nexon Rival SUVs
Mahindra XUV300 Facelift
Mahindra & Mahindra is set to roll out the updated XUV300 in the coming weeks, although the launch date is yet to be announced. The compact SUV is likely to undergo cosmetic changes heavily inspired by Mahindra’s BE electric SUV, scheduled for arrival in 2025. Upfront, it will feature a new two-part grille with a larger central air intake, a tweaked bumper, and headlamps with new LED DRLs. The new XUV300 will also receive a new set of alloy wheels, a redesigned tailgate with a full-width LED light bar, sleeker taillamps, and a repositioned registration plate. In terms of features, the SUV will boast the segment-first panoramic sunroof along with a larger 10.25-inch infotainment system. Reports suggest that the 2024 Mahindra XUV300 will come with a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox available with the 131bhp, 1.2L turbo petrol engine. The existing 1.2L turbo petrol and 1.5L diesel engines will also be on offer.
Nissan Magnite Facelift
The Japanese automaker has confirmed that it will give a mid-life update to the Nissan Magnite, expected to arrive in 2024. Details of the new Magnite are not available at this point in time. However, the updated version is expected to come with subtle cosmetic changes and a few feature upgrades. The carmaker might offer a larger, free-standing touchscreen infotainment system instead of the existing 8-inch unit. The digital instrument cluster might also be revised. To enhance its value proposition, Nissan could offer an electric sunroof on its higher trims. No changes are likely to be made under the hood.
New-Gen Renault Kiger
In January 2024, Renault India announced its three-year roadmap, which includes five new product launches, including the new-gen Kiger and Triber, a B-SUV, a C-SUV, and a localized EV. The new-gen Renault Kiger is expected to come with significantly improved styling and new features along with a new modular platform that underpins the global-spec Renault Kardian. The brand’s new architecture is compatible with vehicles measuring 4.1 meters to 5 meters in length and multiple powertrains – petrol, mild and full hybrid, LPG, and flex-fuel. The all-new Renault Kiger might also be offered with a new 1.0L, 3-cylinder GDi turbo petrol engine that delivers a power output of 125bhp and 225Nm of torque.
New Skoda Compact SUV
Skoda Auto is likely to announce its new compact SUV under its ‘India 2.0’ project at the upcoming media event on February 27, 2024. The model is expected to be designed on the MQB-A0 (IN) platform, already used in the Kushaq mid-size SUV and Slavia sedan. Media reports suggest that the new Skoda compact SUV will share its design elements and features with the Kushaq, such as an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, ventilated front seats, touch-enabled climate control panel, digital driver’s display, etc. The model could be offered with the 1.0L TSI petrol engine, delivering a peak power of 115bhp and 178Nm of torque.
