As the utility vehicle (UV) segment continues to dominate sales, with approximately 2,362,500 units sold in the first seven months of this year, representing a YoY growth of 9 percent, car manufacturers like Toyota, Tata, Mahindra, and Citroen are gearing up to introduce new family cars (7-seater models) in the coming months. Let’s delve into key details about these upcoming family cars.
Upcoming 7-Seater Family Cars
Toyota Rumion:
The Toyota Rumion is essentially a re-badged version of the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga with minor cosmetic alterations. Price announcements are expected in the first week of September 2023. The MPV showcases design influences from the Innova Crysta, featuring an updated front bumper with chrome accents, fog lamps, new dual-tone machined alloy wheels, and LED taillamps. The model lineup will comprise three trims – S, G, and V. Toyota will offer the Rumion with two fuel options – a 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol and a CNG variant – generating power outputs of 103bhp with 137Nm and 88bhp with 121.5Nm, respectively. More details here…
Mahindra Bolero Neo Plus:
The Mahindra Bolero Neo Plus is set to launch in September 2023, available in both 7-seater and 9-seater configurations. The SUV will be powered by a 2.2L diesel engine delivering 120bhp. It will come paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox and a 2WD drivetrain system. While official details are forthcoming, anticipated features include a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 2-DIN audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, height-adjustable driver’s seat, fabric upholstery, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. More details here…
Citroen C3 Aircross:
The Citroen C3 Aircross SUV is set to debut in October 2023, offering buyers both 5-seater and 7-seater options. The 7-seater variant will feature roof-mounted AC vents with blower control for second and third-row passengers, along with USB charging ports for third-row occupants. It will provide a generous boot space of 511 liters with the third-row seats folded down. Both versions will be powered by a 1.2L turbo petrol engine mated to a 6-speed gearbox. This engine will deliver 110bhp and 190Nm of torque, with an ARAI-certified fuel efficiency of 18.5kmpl. More details here…
Tata Safari Facelift:
The new Tata Safari facelift is slated for launch just before the Diwali season (October 2023). Significant updates are expected inside the cabin, including a new 10.25-inch infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, a two-spoke multi-functional steering wheel with an illuminated logo panel in the center, and updated graphics for the instrument cluster along with advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) technology. Design changes, inspired by the Curvv concept showcased at this year’s Auto Expo, will be minimal. There is also speculation about a new petrol engine being introduced alongside the existing 2.0L diesel engine. More details here…
