Maruti Suzuki Ignis was first introduced in January 2017, which was followed by its facelift in 2020. As of now, the micro SUV doesn’t have any direct rival in the country. Though, its price range puts it against multiple hatchbacks and entry-level subcompact SUVs.
Well, those days will soon go away as Tata Motors and Hyundai Motors India are ready to foray into the mini SUV segment with the all-new Punch and Casper respectively. While the Tata Punch will hit roads sometime next month (September 2021), the Hyundai Casper will arrive towards the end of 2022. Here’s a brief on the two upcoming Maruti Ignis rivals.
Tata Punch
The home-grown carmaker recently unveiled its upcoming Tata Punch micro SUV that’s based on the HBX concept. It will be the fourth and smallest SUV in the company’s product lineup. The production-ready model looks quite similar to the concept that broke cover at the 2020 Auto Expo. Though, its front bumper and body cladding appear to be toned down. The new Tata micro SUV will share its platform and features with the Altroz premium hatchback including a floating touchscreen infotainment system, Harman audio system, ambient lighting, a multi functional steering wheel, semi digital instrument cluster and more. Reports suggest that the Tata Punch will be made available with the 1.2L, 3-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol and 1.2L turbo petrol engines, borrowed from the Tiago and Altroz iTurbo. There will be two gearboxes on offer – 5-speed manual and AMT.
Hyundai Casper
Hyundai Casper mini SUV is ready to make its global debut in September 2021. Its India launch, however, will take place in late 2022. The spy images and teaser confirm that the vehicle will carry upright stance with circular headlamps, alloy wheels, body cladding and C-pillar mounted door handles. On the feature front, it is likely to offer a large touchscreen infotainment system with latest smartphone connectivity, connected car technology, cruise control, automatic AC unit, LED lighting and more. The upcoming Hyundai Casper micro SUV could be offered with the Grand i10 Nios’s 1.2L petrol, 1.0L turbo petrol and 1.2L diesel engine options. While the 1.2L petrol and diesel motors deliver 83bhp with 114Nm and 75bhp with 190Nm respectively, the 1.0L turbo petrol unit will be good for 100bhp and 172Nm. It can be had with a 5-speed manual or an AMT gearbox.
