Indian auto industry will welcome a wide range of new SUVs in the next couple of years. French automaker, Citroen will start rolling out locally developed products in the country from the second half of 2021 – and a sub-4 meter SUV, codenamed C21, will be its first model. Adding to it, Jeep will introduce a small SUV in the 2022-23.
These two models will rival the popular compact SUVs including the Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV300 and the Maruti Vitara Brezza. All three SUVs will enter into new generation in the near future, as the existing models are already 3-4 years old.
Next-gen Maruti Vitara Brezza
Maruti Suzuki will introduce the next-gen Vitara Brezza in the end of 2021 or early 2022. The new model will be based on the advanced version of Suzuki’s lightweight platform, which will allow Maruti to incorporate modern features. The small SUV will be fitted with advanced connectivity features such as connected car tech, wireless charger and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The SUV will also get a factory-fitted electric sunroof.
The new Brezza will also receive significant design and interior changes. However, the overall rugged looking profile is expected to be retained. The SUV will get more modern interior with improved fit & finish and material quality. It will be powered by the 1.5-litre K15B petrol engine with a stronger hybrid system. It is expected to feature a larger battery and a more powerful electric motor to achieve higher fuel efficiency.
Next-gen Tata Nexon
Tata Motors is aggressive with its product strategy for the Indian market. Buoyed by excellent response for new Safari and the Altroz, Tata Motors is now aiming to give its popular Nexon compact SUV and the Tiago hatchack a generation upgrade. The new Nexon will ditch existing platform for the new ALFA (Agile Light Flexible Advanced) architecture. This platform currently underpins the Altroz hatchback and the soon-to-be-launched HBX concept based micro SUV.
The ALFA platform is compatible with different body styles including hatchbacks, sedans, compact SUVs and MPVs, and supports different powertrains such as petrol & diesel, hybrid and electric. The next-gen Nexon is expected to come with improved styling and better equipped cabin. Adding to it, the SUV could get connected car tech and advanced comfort and convenience features.
Next-gen Mahindra XUV300
Mahindra & Mahindra has announced that it will launch 9 new SUVs in the next 5 years. The company has also confirmed that the next-gen XUV300 is also under development. It is scheduled to be launched between 2024 and 2027. Details about the new product is yet to be announced, but it is confirmed to receive electric and hybrid powertrain options.
