Within the past few weeks, we have witnessed some important product launches including the updated Hyundai Creta, Kia Sonet and Mahindra XUV400 and Tata Punch EV. However, the excitement continues to build, with several more eagerly anticipated models set to make their debut from India’s leading car manufacturers, including Maruti Suzuki, Mahindra & Mahindra, Toyota, and Hyundai. Let’s delve into some key details of the upcoming new models.
New-Gen Maruti Swift
The Indo-Japanese automaker is gearing up to introduce the new-generation Swift hatchback in the coming months, possibly in March or April. Reports suggest that the new model will enter production in February 2024 at Maruti Suzuki’s Hansalpur facility in Gujarat. While the 2024 Maruti Swift will retain the existing design language, significant changes will be made to its body shell. It will feature a newly-designed grille, headlamps, and taillamps. Compared to the current generation, the new one will be 15mm longer, 40mm narrower, and 30mm taller. However, the wheelbase will remain unchanged. Inside, the dashboard will be revised, and a new floating touchscreen infotainment system, instrument cluster, and steering wheel will provide a refreshing feel. The most significant highlight of the new Swift will be the brand’s new Z12 engine with mild hybrid technology. The new 1.2L petrol motor will offer high mileage and performance.
Mahindra XUV300 Facelift
Mahindra & Mahindra has planned two new models for the coming months – the updated XUV300 subcompact SUV and the 5-door Thar lifestyle off-road SUV. The 2024 Mahindra XUV300 facelift is likely to go on sale in February with changes inspired by the updated XUV400 EV. Some of its design elements will be inspired by Mahindra’s BE electric SUVs, which are slated to hit the roads in 2025. The SUV will receive a new 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Mahindra’s latest AdrenoX UI, supporting wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. There will also be a fully digital instrument cluster with a color MID in the center and dual pods. The higher trims will be exclusively offered with a panoramic sunroof. No changes will be made to its engine setup. The new XUV300 will use the existing 1.2L turbo MPI, 1.2L turbo GDI, and 1.5L turbo diesel engines.
Mahindra 5-Door Thar
The Mahindra 5-door Thar is reported to enter production in June, with its market launch expected in August 2024. It’s certainly one of the much-awaited upcoming new cars in the country. The overall styling of the 5-door Thar will be slightly different from its 3-door version. The off-road SUV will feature a differently designed front grille, revised front and rear bumpers, redesigned taillamps, and new alloy wheels. Similar to the updated XUV400 EV, it might get the 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with OTA updates. The dashboard could also be different from the 3-door Thar. There will be a provision for an armrest for the front and rear seat passengers and dedicated grab handles for the middle-row occupants. The higher trim will get a sunroof. Under the hood, the 5-door Mahindra Thar will employ the same 2.2L diesel and 2.0L petrol engines, sourced from the 3-door Thar. However, its suspension could be tweaked.
Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor
Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) will soon introduce the rebadged version of the Maruti Suzuki Fronx compact crossover in the country. The model is likely to be named Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor and will be the fifth shared model between the brands. Minimal design changes will be made to the Taisor. It’s likely to feature revised front and rear bumpers, different lighting elements, and wheels than the Fronx. Interior layout and features will be similar to its donor model, though it’s expected to have a slightly different dashboard, new upholstery, and color options. For power, the Toyota Taisor will use the 1.0L Boosterjet petrol and 1.2L naturally aspirated petrol engines. While the former is good for 100bhp and 147Nm, the latter makes 90bhp. Transmission options will include the same 5-speed manual, 6-speed torque converter automatic, and 5-speed AMT.
Hyundai Creta N Line
Hyundai Motor India, which aims to expand its N Line product lineup, will soon launch the Creta N Line in the country. The model is likely to arrive by mid-2024. It will be based on the recently-launched Creta facelift but carry some sporty design bits over the regular model. The Hyundai Creta N Line is likely to feature slightly tweaked front grille and bumper, a revised chin with N Line red accents with gloss black and faux-brushed aluminum bits. The model will carry N Line badges on the sides along with the newly-designed alloy wheels and side skirts. Similar to other N Line models, it’s likely to have an all-black interior theme with N Line specific gear lever and steering wheel with red stitching. The Creta N Line will be offered with the new 1.5L turbo petrol engine that makes a peak power of 160bhp. Transmission duties will be performed by a 7-speed DCT gearbox. Hyundai might tune its suspension setup, steering dynamics, and exhaust sound that will be in line with the other N Line models.
