The next two months are going to be exceptionally thrilling for auto enthusiasts, with five eagerly awaited new car launches scheduled from India’s leading manufacturers, including Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Tata, Mahindra, and Kia. Let’s delve into the key details of these upcoming models.
Tata Punch EV
The Punch EV’s price is set to be unveiled on December 21, 2013. Positioned to compete against the Citroen eC3, this micro electric SUV is anticipated to start at Rs 12.50 lakh. Although official details are pending, expectations include two trims – Medium Range (MR) and Long Range (LR). Its powertrain setup comprises a liquid-cooled battery and a permanent magnet synchronous motor. Built on the Gen 2 EV platform, a heavily modified version of the Alfa architecture, the Punch EV boasts features like a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a two-spoke steering wheel, an electronic parking brake, and a circular display integrated gear selector dial. Notably, the Long-Range variant might include a unique charging socket mounted upfront on the bumper, resulting in a slightly different appearance from its ICE counterpart.
Hyundai Creta Facelift
Hyundai Motor India has officially confirmed the Creta facelift’s debut on January 16, 2023. Significant alterations to both design and interior are expected, complemented by a new 160bhp, 1.5L turbo petrol engine. The existing 115bhp, 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol, and diesel engines from the pre-facelift model will be retained. The updated Creta will feature ADAS tech, a fully digital instrument cluster, a 360-degree camera, and fresh color schemes for seat upholstery. Drawing inspiration from Hyundai’s latest SUVs, such as the Palisade and Exter, the design and styling enhancements, coupled with the added features, will likely result in a price increase.
Kia Sonet Facelift
Although the official launch date is yet to be disclosed, the new Kia Sonet facelift is slated to go on sale in January 2024. The refreshed lineup will include seven variants across three trims: HT-Line, GT-Line, and X-Line. Noteworthy feature upgrades encompass Level 1 ADAS tech, a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system similar to the new Seltos, and unchanged engine options—83bhp, 1.2L petrol, 120bhp, 1.0L turbo petrol, and 116bhp, 1.5L diesel engines.
New-Gen Maruti Swift
Expected to debut in January or February 2024, the new-generation Maruti Swift will be built on a heavily modified Heartect platform, promising a lighter and more rigid structure. While the Japan-spec model incorporates ADAS tech, the India-spec version will not. Features include a new 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The powertrain will feature a 1.2L, 12V, DOHC engine producing 82bhp and 108Nm, with an optional mild hybrid powertrain for enhanced fuel efficiency. Both manual and AMT gearboxes will be available.
Mahindra XUV300 Facelift
Anticipated to hit showrooms by February 2024, the new Mahindra XUV300 facelift is set to become the first vehicle in its segment to offer a panoramic sunroof alongside ADAS tech and a larger freestanding infotainment system. Additional features may include a 360-degree camera, wireless phone charging, a digital instrument cluster, the AdrennoX UI with OTA updates, and ventilated front seats. Under the hood, the XUV300 will retain its existing engine options: the 1.2L turbo petrol, 1.2L turbo petrol, and 1.5L turbo diesel engines. Design changes are expected to draw inspiration from the Mahindra BE05 electric SUV concept.
