Tata Motors had launched the Punch sub-compact SUV in the country in 2021. The new model has received an overwhelming response from buyers, as it commands a waiting period of around 3-6 months. In fact, Tata Motors is constantly selling over 10,000 Punch SUVs per month.
Seeing the growing demand for entry-level sub-compact SUVs, Citroen & Hyundai Group are planning to launch their respectively small SUVs in the country. These models will directly rival the Tata Punch micro SUV.
Citroen C3
Cirteon is all set to launch the much-awaited and locally developed Citroen C3 in the Indian market. The new model is based on Stellantis’s CMP (Common Modular Platform), which will also underpin multiple India-centric products. The vehicle measures 3.98 meters in length and has a ground clearance of 180mm. It comes with cross-hatchback profile with raised ground clearance and a high bonnet. The upcoming Citroen C3 will be offered with two petrol engines – a 1.2-litre 3-cylinder naturally-aspirated and a 1.2-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged. The 1.2L NA engine is capable of producing close to 80bhp, while the 1.2L turbo petrol engine is good for two states of tunes – 108bhp and 128bhp.
Hyundai Ai3
The Korean automaker, Hyundai is planning to enter the entry-level sub-4 meter subcompact SUV segment. It will rival the likes of the Tata Punch and the Maruti Ignis. Codenamed Hyundai Ai3, the new CUV (Compact Utility Vehicle) is expected to be launched in 2023. It is likely to be based on the new Santro platform, which also underpins the Korean-spec Hyundai Casper. Not just platform, the new micro SUV could share the engine specs with the Casper. It will come with two engine options – a 76bhp, 1.0-litre naturally-aspirated petrol and a new 100bhp, 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol. Both engines will be paired to a 4-speed automatic gearbox.
Kia Mass-Market Small SUV
The Korean automaker is reportedly working on an all-new entry-level electric SUV for the Indian as well as global markets. Codenamed AY, the new entry-level electric SUV will be produced in India for domestic as well as global markets. The new model will be based on an all-new flexible Platform. This platform will also be used to develop a new mass market small petrol SUV for the Indian market. The new entry-level SUV could be positioned against the Tata Punch. The small SUV is likely to get a 1.2L NA petrol or a 1.0L turbo petrol that powers the Grand i10 Nios. The company could also introduce the CNG version of the small SUV.
