The success of the XUV700, Safari and the Scorpio-N have prompted automakers to introduce 7-seater family SUVs in the Indian market. These SUVs offer high riding position, decent off-road abilities and practical cabin for both highways and cities. In this article, we bring you a list of top 4 upcoming 7-seater SUVs that will challenge the likes of the Tata Safari, Mahindra XUV700 and the Hyundai Alcazar.
New Renault Duster 7-Seater
Renault is preparing the third-gen Duster, which is scheduled to be launched in 2024-25. The company is also developing a new 7-seater SUV, which is rumoured to be introduced by the end of 2025. The new 7-seater SUV is likely to share the styling cues from the Dacia Bigster concept, which was unveiled in global markets in 2021. The new model will be based on Renault-Nissan alliance’s CMF-B platform, which has an electric derivative called the CMF-B EV architecture. It will be offered with a new turbocharged petrol engine with manual and automatic gearbox. The SUV could also receive a hybrid powertrain.
New Nissan 7-Seater
Similar to the new Duster & a new 7-seater SUV, Nissan will introduce two new SUVs including the next-gen Kicks and a 3-row SUV. The new SUVs will be launched around the same time as the new Duster. The new SUVs will be designed and developed on the CMF-B modular platform, which will be heavily localised. The CMF-B has an electric derivative called the CMF-B EV architecture and this will allow the Renault-Nissan alliance to produce electric vehicles locally in future. This platform will be future-proof and will be compliant with existing and upcoming safety norms. It will also support electrification, including hybrid and EV powertrains.
Maruti 7-Seater SUV
Maruti Suzuki is reportedly developing a new 7-seater SUV, which will be launched in our market by 2025. The 7-seater SUV will be based on the Grand Vitara’s Global-C platform. It will ride on a longer wheelbase to create more space inside the cabin. The SUV could be offered with the same set of 1.5L petrol & a 1.5L Atkinson cycle strong hybrid powertrains. The new SUV will be manufactured at Suzuki’s new Kharkhoda facility.
Toyota Corolla Cross 7-Seater
If reports are to be believed, Toyota is preparing a new 7-seater SUV for the Indian market. The new 7-seater SUV will be positioned between the Hyryder and the Fortuner. It will rival the higher variants of the Mahindra XUV700 and the Tata Safari. It is most likely to be designed and developed on the TNGA-C platform, which underpins the new Innova Hycross and the Corolla Cross. The SUV is likely to share engine options with the Hycross. It is expected to come with two engine options – a 172bhp, 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated petrol and a 186bhp, 2.0-litre petrol with Toyota’s self charging strong hybrid tech.
