New Toyota Mid-Sized SUV (Hyundai Creta Rival) In The Works
Japanese automaker, Toyota is planning to introduce a wide range of new models in the Indian market. With the help of Maruti Suzuki, the Japanese brand will expand its product portfolio in the entry-level and affordable car segments. The Glanza was the first model under the new Suzuki and Toyota partnership. Toyota will also launch the re-badged versions of the Brezza, Ertiga and the Ciaz in the Indian market.
Additionally, the Duo is developing an all-new C-segment MPV for the Indian as well as global markets. This model will be based on the front-wheel-drive monocoque platform. It will be positioned between the Ertiga and the Innova, and will rival the Mahindra Marazzo and the upcoming Tata’s MPV based on the Harrier platform.
Toyota is also considering importing some of its global SUVs including the RAV4, C-HR and Highlander in India. These models will be CBU models and will be launched as premium SUVs. Similar to the T-ROC, Toyota could bring the RAV4 or C-HR to rival the likes of the Hyundai Tucson and the Jeep Compass. The reason behind is that the demand for SUVs have been increased significantly over the past 3-4 years. The company has discontinued the Corolla sedan and is planning to introduce SUVs instead of sedans in India.
The Japanese brand is also working on an all-new mid-sized SUV, which will be positioned against the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos and the Nissan Kicks. Previous media reports claim that the new SUV will be co-developed by Maruti Suzuki and Toyota. The SUV could be based on Toyota-Daihatsu’s DNGA modular platform, which is developed for the emerging markets. This platform underpins the Daihatsu Rocky and the Raize sub-4 meter SUVs.
For DNGA based platform, the duo will have to make fresh investment in India. The new SUV could be based on the Suzuki’s C-platform that underpins the global Vitara and the Brezza. It is likely to measure around 4.3 meters in length. There will be two different versions of this SUV, one each for Maruti Suzuki and Toyota. Both SUVs will share the platform; however, design will be completely different. The new SUVs could be launched in 2022 and a possible debut at Auto Expo 2020 can’t be ignored.
