SUVs are currently experiencing a surge in demand in the Indian market, with buyers having multiple choices across price ranges, ranging from affordable entry-level subcompact SUVs to premium three-row models. For those interested in a 7-seater SUV, there are four new models set to debut from Hyundai, Tata, Kia, and Toyota this year. Let’s delve into the details of these upcoming 7-seater SUVs.
Upcoming 7-Seater SUVs
Hyundai Alcazar Facelift
The Hyundai Alcazar facelift is taking shape ahead of its market launch, likely to happen in the coming months. The SUV’s updated model will retain the original silhouette and design, while its front grille and bumpers will be revised. It will come with a new set of alloy wheels and a redesigned tailgate with wraparound, connected taillamps. A few changes will also be made to its sheet metal at the front and back. Some of its design elements will be inspired by the new Creta. Inside, the 2024 Hyundai Alcazar facelift will have new upholstery and a slightly revised dashboard. Reports suggest that the SUV will receive ADAS tech and a larger touchscreen infotainment system with the mid-life update. Under the hood, there will be the existing 160bhp, 1.5L turbo petrol, and 115bhp, 1.5L diesel engines.
Kia EV9
The Kia EV9 electric SUV is slated to launch in India in the second half of 2024. Globally, the model is offered with three powertrains – a 76.1kWh battery with RWD, a 99.8kWh battery with RWD and two electric motors, and AWD. While the smaller battery version offers a claimed range of 358km, the bigger battery variants promise a range of 541km. The electric SUV comes with V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) capabilities. It will be the new flagship model from the South Korean automaker in India, packed with lots of advanced goodies such as a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation and wireless smartphone connectivity, a 5.3-inch climate control screen, a 12.3-inch driver display, ADAS tech, a 14-speaker Meridian sound system, C-Type USB ports, OTA updates, fingerprint recognition, wireless phone charging, and more.
Tata Safari EV
The Tata Safari EV, which will be based on its updated ICE version, will go on sale toward the end of 2024. The electric SUV will feature vertically placed headlamps with wide connecting DRLs, newly designed alloy wheels, and a ‘.ev’ moniker on the lower section of the front door. Inside, the Safari EV will have a large touchscreen infotainment system, a new central tunnel with rotary dials for multiple driving modes, a twin-spoke steering wheel, and a touch panel for AC vents. Similar to the Tata Punch EV, the upcoming Safari EV will underpin the Acti.ev platform. Its powertrain details are yet to be disclosed. However, the SUV is likely to come with around 60kWh of battery pack offering a range of over 500km on a full charge.
New-Gen Toyota Fortuner
The next-generation Toyota Fortuner will make its global debut in 2024. Its official India launch timeline is yet to be revealed by the carmaker. The 2024 Fortuner will be designed on the new TNGA-F platform borrowed from the global-spec Tacoma pickup truck. Most of its design changes will be inspired by the new Tacoma pickup truck. If reports are to be believed, the all-new Fortuner will come with ADAS (advanced driver assistance system) tech, vehicle stability control, and a hydraulic steering wheel. The biggest talking point of the 2024 Toyota Fortuner will be the 2.8L turbo diesel engine with the 48V mild hybrid tech. The setup will include a 48V battery, a small electric motor generator, and other components, enhancing its fuel efficiency by 10 percent. The hybrid powertrain will be available with a 6-speed automatic gearbox.
