It is speculated that people will switch to personal mobility instead of share mobility during the COVID-19 times. Auto manufacturers are hoping that the sales number will gradually improve. In this article, we talk about the top 5 upcoming cars and SUVs that will cost you less than Rs 8 lakhs –
New Maruti Celerio
If media reports are to be believed, the new-gen Maruti Suzuki Celerio will be launched in our market in the next couple of months. In fact, the entry-level hatchback has been spotted testing a couple of times. It will be based on the new HEARTECT platform, which also underpins the Maruti Suzuki S-Presso and the new WagonR. It is expected to ride on a longer wheelbase and will have wider cabin than the outgoing car. The hatchback will receive significant design upgrades and all-new interior with modern features like touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, reverse camera and many more. The hatchback is likely to be offered with two engine options – a 67bhp, 1.0-litre petrol and a 77bhp, 1.2-litre petrol. Transmission choices will include a 5-speed manual and an AMT automatic unit.
Next-gen Maruti Alto
Maruti Suzuki has also started working on the next-gen Alto, which is scheduled to be launched in 2021. The new model is likely to be based on the new HEARTECT platform and will grow in size. It will have crossover-design elements and will rival the Renault Kwid. The new model will also receive better equipped cabin with top-end variants to sport touchscreen infotainment with smartphone connectivity. Powering the new Alto is a 796cc, naturally-aspirated petrol engine with manual and AMT gearboxes. This engine produces 48bhp of power and 69Nm of torque.
Tata HBX
Tata Motors had showcased the HBX micro SUV at the 2020 Auto Expo. Internally called the Hornbill, the new entry-level car is scheduled to be launched in the first half of 2021. It will be based on the ALFA modular platform that also underpins the Altroz. The HBX will directly rival the Mahindra KUV100 NXT and the Maruti Suzuki Ignis. It shares the interior with the Altroz and the Tiago hatchbacks. The new model will be powered by a 85bhp, 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine. Both manual and AMT versions will be on offer.
Renault Kiger
Buoyed by positive response for Triber, Renault is now ready to launch an all-new sub-4 meter SUV in India. Codenamed HBC, the new SUV is rumoured to be called the Renault Kiger. The new SUV will be designed and developed on the low-cost Renault-Nissan Alliance’s CMF-A modular platform, which also underpins the Triber and the Kwid. The company aims to position the new Kiger as an affordable alternative to the likes of the Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet and the Tata Nexon. It will be powered by a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with manual and automatic gearbox options.
Nissan Magnite
Japanese automaker, Nissan is all set to launch the Magnite sub-4 meter SUV in the country in the first quarter of 2021. The new Nissan Magnite will share the platform with the Renault Triber and the upcoming Kiger. The new model is rumoured to be priced as low as Rs 5.25 lakh. In fact, the CVT version of the SUV could cost below 6 lakh. It will be offered with 1.0-litre petrol engine in naturally-aspirated and turbocharged versions.
