January 2024 brought a wave of excitement to the Indian automobile industry with multiple product launches and unveils, and the inaugural edition of the Bharat Mobility Global Expo. February is set to be equally thrilling with the unveiling of five new models. Let’s delve into the key details of these upcoming cars.
Mahindra XUV300 Facelift
The refreshed Mahindra XUV300 is poised to undergo design and feature upgrades akin to the recently-launched XUV400 facelift. Drawing inspiration from Mahindra’s upcoming BE electric SUV, slated for release in 2025, the subcompact SUV will feature a more angular nose, a new two-part grille with a larger central air intake, a tweaked front bumper, and headlamps, revised LED DRLs, new alloys, and a redesigned tailgate with a full-width LED light bar. Notably, the 2024 Mahindra XUV300 facelift will be the first in its segment to boast a panoramic sunroof and a larger 10.25-inch infotainment system. The mid-life update will introduce an Aisin-sourced 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox paired with the 131bhp, 1.2L turbo petrol engine, while the existing 1.2L direct injection turbo petrol and 1.5L diesel engines will be retained.
New-Gen Maruti Swift
Scheduled to enter production in February, the new-generation Maruti Swift is expected to hit the market by April 2024. Although the launch date remains undisclosed, glimpses of the model have revealed a design characterized by increased dimensions and a sharper aesthetic. The dashboard will mirror that of the Fronx, incorporating features such as a steering wheel, a floating touchscreen, an instrument cluster, switch gears, and HVAC controls borrowed from other Maruti Suzuki cars. Under the hood, the new Swift will house a 1.2L, 3-cylinder petrol engine available with or without mild hybrid tech, promising high mileage and performance. Transmissions will be carried over from the current generation.
Tata Tiago/Tigor CNG AMT
Bookings have commenced for the upcoming Tata Tiago and Tigor CNG AMT models, requiring a token sum of Rs 21,000. These models will be the first CNG vehicles in India equipped with an automatic gearbox. The Tiago CNG AT will be offered in XTA CNG, XZA+ CNG, and XZA NRG trims, while the Tiago CNG AT combo will be available in two variants – XZA CNG and XZA+ CNG. The CNG AMT variants will feature the 1.2L petrol engine producing 86bhp with 113Nm on petrol and 73bhp with 95Nm on CNG, utilizing Tata’s twin-cylinder CNG technology. Additionally, Tata plans to introduce new color schemes, including Tornado Blue (Tiago), Grassland Beige (Tiago NRG), and Meteor Bronze (Tigor).
Skoda Octavia Facelift (Debut)
The 2024 Skoda Octavia facelift is set to make its global debut in February 2024, with no official confirmation on its India launch. However, reports suggest the potential introduction of the Skoda Octavia RS iV with plug-in hybrid technology in limited numbers. Teasers reveal newly-designed headlamps with diagonal LED DRLs, a slightly revised front grille, tweaked front and rear bumpers, a new set of alloys, and revised taillamps. The interior will boast a new 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity and a 10-inch driver’s display. Globally, it will offer various powertrain options, including 110bhp, 1.0L turbo petrol, 1.0L petrol with mild hybrid, 150bhp, 1.5L turbo petrol, 1.5L petrol with mild hybrid, 115bhp, 2.0L diesel, 245bhp, 1.4L plug-in hybrid, and 245bhp, 2.0L turbo petrol. Higher trims may exclusively feature the AWD system.
