The festive season is just around the corner and we have been waiting for some of the new, important car launches of this year. Earlier there were a dozen of new models that were slated to be released during Diwali 2021. However, some of them have been delayed due to sever chip shortage and other reasons. Here’s a brief on the new car launches, which are ready to hit showrooms in the next 2 months. What needs to be noted that all them are SUVs.
Tata Punch
Tata Punch micro SUV will be among the much-awaited launches of this year. The automaker has already released multiple teasers of the vehicle and it’s reported to arrive in the month of September. The Punch, which is essentially the production version of the HBX, will take on the Maruti Ignis and Mahindra KUV100. While its official details are yet to be announced, the mini SUV is reported to come with the 1.2L NA and turbocharged engines.
MG Astor
MG’s upcoming mid-size SUV will make debut in coming weeks. Called the MG Astor, the SUV will be packed with several segment first features including a personal AI assistant system and level 2 autonomous tech. It will be the brand’s first production model to underpin the Concept-of-Car as a Platform (CAAP) software. Here, it’s likely to be made available with a 163PS, 1.3L turbo petrol motor and 6-speed manual and automatic gearbox options.
Volkswagen Taigun
Volkswagen Taigun is all set to launch on 23rd September 2021. In the mid-size SUV segment, VW’s new SUV will face challenge from the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Skoda Kushaq and the upcoming MG Astor. Based on the India-specific MQB AO IN architecture, the Taigun shares its design elements, features and engines with the Kushaq. Though, it looks different and has some extra features on offer. Similar to its cousin, the VW Taigun will come with the 115bhp, 1.0L turbo and 150bhp, 1.5L turbo petrol engine options.
Mahindra XUV700 7-Seater
The home-grown carmaker will announce prices of the Mahindra XUV700 7-seater SUV during Diwali 2021 (possibly in October). It will have three-row seats layout and offered with the same 200bhp, 2.0L turbo petrol and 2.2L mHawk diesel engines. While its 5-seater version is being offered with manual gearbox only, the 7-seater model will be available with both manual and automatic transmissions. The 7-seats XUV700 will lock horns against the Tata Safari, MG Hector Plus and Hyundai Alcazar.
Force Gurkha
The all-new Force Gurkha, which was previewed at the 2020 Auto Expo, is now ready to hit roads in coming weeks. The compact off-road SUV has received significant changes in terms of design and features, while its engine has been updated to meet the BS6 emission standards. The new Gurkha will continue to come with the 2WD and 4WD options. As mentioned above, it will have a BS6-ready 2.6L diesel engine (90bhp.260Nm) with a 5-speed manual gearbox. The SUV sits on the updated ladder frame chassis and comply to the crash test and pedestrian safety norms.
Updated Ford EcoSport
The 2021 Ford EcoSport facelift was recently spotted testing without any camouflage. While its official launch date is yet to be announced, the updated model is reported to see a release in the month of October. A few noticeable changes will be made to its exterior and interior. It might get the upgraded SYNC3 infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, updated connected car tech and new seat upholstery. Under the hood, the new EcoSport will continue to feature the 120bhp, 1.5L petrol and 99bhp, 1.5L diesel engines.
New Jeep Compass Trailhawk
The recent sighting of the updated Jeep Compass Trailhawk hints that the model will soon be introduced in the market (possibly during Diwali 2021). Most of its design and feature upgrades are similar to the facelifted Compass that was launched earlier this year. Some of its key changes will include new LED headlamp cluster, revised bumpers for better approach and departure angle, new diamond cut alloys and red and black finish on the exterior. The SUV will come with the 170bhp, 2.0L Multijet diesel engine that does duty in the facelifted Compass.
