January 2024 promises to be an exhilarating month for auto enthusiasts, especially those fond of SUVs, as five major models gear up for their debut on the roads. The highly-anticipated releases include the updated Mercedes-Benz GLS and Creta SUV, confirmed for launch on the 8th and 16th of January, respectively. Joining the lineup are facelifts for the Kia Sonet, Mahindra XUV300, and XUV400. Let’s delve into the key details of these upcoming SUVs.
Mercedes-Benz GLS Facelift
The flagship SUV of Mercedes-Benz, the GLS, is set to undergo significant cosmetic enhancements and feature upgrades this month. Notable highlights include the revamped MBUX infotainment system, new seat upholstery, a permanent low-speed 360-degree camera, and glossy brown lime wood trim. Enhancing its aesthetics are a silver shadow finish on the four horizontal louvres in the front grille, a revised front bumper with air inlet grilles and high gloss black surrounds, and newly-designed taillamps with three horizontal black patterns. No alterations are expected under the hood, with the new GLS featuring the 3.0L, 6-cylinder petrol (GLS 450 4Matic) and 3.0L, 6-cylinder diesel (GLS 400d 4Matic) engines. The SUV will retain the 9-speed automatic gearbox and 4Matic AWD setup.
Hyundai Creta Facelift
The upcoming facelift of the Hyundai Creta stands as one of the most significant car launches of the year. Interested buyers can secure their units by pre-booking with an amount of Rs 25,000. The refreshed Creta will boast newly-designed dual 10.25-inch connected screens, akin to the new Kia Seltos. The central console will feature redesigned central AC vents and a touch panel for HVAC controls. Key highlights include ADAS tech, dual-zone climate control, and a 360-degree camera. The new Creta SUV model lineup will comprise 19 variants and 5 engine-gearbox combinations. Engine options include a new 160bhp, 1.5 turbo petrol motor with a 7-speed DCT gearbox, a 115bhp, 1.5L petrol with manual and CVT transmissions, and a 115bhp, 1.5L diesel with manual and automatic gearbox options. The palette will offer 6 monotone colors and a dual-tone paint scheme.
Mahindra XUV300/XUV400 Facelifts
The updated Mahindra XUV300 and XUV400 SUVs boast significantly improved interiors and will be the first in their category to feature a panoramic sunroof. The subcompact SUV will also receive a larger 10.25-inch infotainment system with smartphone connectivity. Design changes for the new XUV300 draw inspiration from Mahindra’s upcoming BE range electric SUV. This includes a new two-part grille, larger central air intake, new drop-down LED DRLs, redesigned headlamps, updated bumper, newly-designed alloys, and a redesigned tailgate with a full-width LED light bar. The 2024 Mahindra XUV300 is reported to come with a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox paired with the 131bhp, 1.2L turbo petrol engine. Additionally, the 1.2L direct injection turbo petrol and 1.5L diesel engines will be on offer.
Kia Sonet Facelift
The new Kia Sonet facelift, globally unveiled in mid-December last year, will feature significantly updated exteriors and interiors. Similar to the new Seltos, the subcompact SUV will offer the new Pewter Olive color along with eight single-tone, two dual-tone, and one matte finish shade. Borrowing from the new Seltos, the Sonet will include a new 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, while the 10.15-inch touchscreen infotainment system remains unchanged. The new Sonet SUV will feature Level 1 ADAS tech, offering forward collision avoidance assistance, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, high beam assist, and more. Most features from the pre-facelift version will be retained, including the engine setup, with the Sonet featuring the same 83bhp, 1.2L petrol, and 120bhp, 1.0L, 3-cylinder turbo petrol engines. The lineup will be divided into two trims – Tech Line, GT Line, and X-Line, further categorized into different variants.
