At present, the sub-4-metre SUV space is quite crowd with a total of seven models. Among them, three models are ruling the segment including the newly-launched Kia Sonet, Hyundai Venue and Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza. In the next couple of years, there will be several more models to challenge the Sonet and Venue’s dominance. Let’s take a look at the upcoming new subcompact SUV.
1. Renault Kiger
The Renault Kiger, which is scheduled to launch in early 2021, will mark the carmaker’s entry into the subcompact SUV segment. Based on the Renault-Nissan alliance’s CMF-A modular platform, its production model will stay 80% true to its concept in terms of design. Similar to the newly-launched Nissan Magnite, the Kiger will come with naturally-aspirated and turbocharged version of the 1.0L petrol engine. Both manual and CVT gearboxes will be on offer.
2. Citroen C21
PSA Group is ready to start its Indian innings with the Citroen C5 Aircorss SUV, followed by the Citroen C21 subcompact SUV. The latter will be based on the Groupe PSA CMP platform and take on the Kia Sonet and Hyundai Venue. It’s likely to be offered with a 1.2L turbocharged petrol engine making power worth 130bhp. The latest spy pictures of the upcoming Citroen compact SUV confirm that the SUV will feature upright stance, larger bumper and pronounced wheel arches.
3. New Honda Compact SUV
Honda Cars India is also getting ready to challenge dominance of the Kia Sonet and Hyundai Venue. The upcoming Honda compact SUV will be the brand’s global model. It will be based on the new-generation City’s platform and sit between the WR-V and CR-V in the company’s product lineup. While its official launch details are yet to be revealed, the new Honda compact SUV is likely to arrive sometime in 2022.
4. Jeep Compact SUV
Jeep India is planning to expand its product lineup with three new SUVs – a mid-size SUV, a subcompact SUV and a 7-seater SUV. While the new mid-size SUV will take head-to-head against the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos, the sub-4 metre model will rival the Hyundai Venue and Kia Sonet. The new Jeep subcompact SUV is likely to come with electric and plug-in hybrid powertrain options. It might be built on Groupe PSA CMF platform that will also be used in the upcoming Citroen C21.
5. New MG Compact SUV
MG Motor India will also foray into the subcompact segment sometime in 2021. It’s likely to be based on the Baojun 510 that’s sold in the Chinese market. While the Baojun SUV measures 4.10 meter in length, the India-spec MG model will be trimmed down to achieve sub-4 metre length. The British carmaker will also bring in several new models under Rs 10 lakh including a new hatchback and sedan.
6. Skoda/Volkswagen Compact SUV
Under its India 2.0 project, Skoda Auto and Volkswagen are planning to launch a range of new models including a mid-size SUV and subcompact SUV. The upcoming new Skoda and Volkswagen compact SUVs will be based on the modular MQB A0-IN platform and are likely to be offered with a turbo-petrol engine only. There might be a 1.0L, 3-cylinder turbo petrol motor that also does duty in the VW Polo hatchback, VW Vento and Skoda Rapid sedans. Both models are likely to see a release by the end of 2022.
