Seeing the growing demand for SUV-like products, automakers are readying new small crossovers and SUVs instead of hatchbacks or sedans for the Indian market. In this article, we talk about 4 brand new crossovers to be launched in our market to be priced under Rs 10 lakh.
Tata HBX
Tata Motors will introduce a small crossover below the Nexon compact SUV before the end of this year. The new crossover will be based on the Tata HBX concept, which was unveiled at the 2020 Auto Expo. It will be based on the brand’s new ALFA modular platform, which also underpins the Altroz premium hatchback. The concept measures 3,840mm in length, 1822mm in width and 1635mm in height with a wheelbase of 2450mm.
The small SUV will be positioned against the Maruti Suzuki Ignis and the Mahindra KUV100. It is expected to be priced around Rs 4.5 lakh to Rs 8 lakh. The crossover will be powered by a 1.2-litre 3-cylinder naturally-aspirated engine that also powers the Tiago and the Altroz. This engine produces 86bhp and 113Nm of torque. It could also receive the 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine with power close to 100bhp. Transmission choices are likely to include a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT.
Citroen C3
French automaker, Citroen will introduce the locally developed C3 compact crossover in the first half of 2022. The crossover will make global debut in September 2021. It will be based on the new CMP (Common Modular Platform), which will also underpin brand’s future compact cars and an all-electric crossover in India.
It is expected to be powered by a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine, which can produce up to 130bhp of power. Media reports suggest that the SUV could receive a flex-fuel system, which will comprise of 1.2L petrol engine with ethanol blends starting from 27% to entirely on the biofuel. Likely to be produced around Rs 6.5 lakh to Rs 9 lakh, the Citroen C3 will rival the Renault Kiger, Nissan Magnite, Kia Sonet and Hyundai Venue.
New Maruti Brezza
Maruti Suzuki is preparing the second generation Vitara Brezza, which will be based on the advanced version of the HEARTECT platform. The new model will come with modern features such as new advanced touchscreen infotainment system with modern connectivity features, connected car tech, a factory-fitted sunroof, cruise control, etc.
The new Brezza will come with the existing 1.5L K15B petrol engine; however, it will get a stronger mild hybrid system. It is expected to feature a larger battery and a more powerful electric motor to achieve higher fuel efficiency. It is expected to be priced around Rs 7.5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh. The new model is expected to be launched in the end of 2021 or early 2022.
Hyundai AX1
Korean automaker, Hyundai will introduce the much-awaited AX1 micro SUV or a small crossover in India in early 2022. The new model is reportedly to make global debut in the next couple of months, and the production of the car is expected to commence from September 2021 at GGM’s production line.
The new model has already been caught testing numerous times in Korea. It is expected to be based on the new K1 platform that underpins the Grand i10 Nios. The small car is likely to feature the 1.1L petrol engine that also powers the Santro. Paired to either a 5-speed MT or AMT, this engine produces 68bhp and 96Nm of torque. Expected to be priced around Rs 4.5 lakh to Rs 7 lakh, the new Hyundai AX1 based crossover will rival the Tata HBX and the Maruti Suzuki Ignis.
