The Hyundai Creta has been the undisputed leader in the mid-size SUV segment since its arrival in 2015. The model entered its second generation in 2020, followed by a significant update in January 2024. Currently, it faces challenges from cars like the Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Honda Elevate, Skoda Kushaq, and Volkswagen Taigun. In the next couple of years, competition will intensify in the mid-size SUV segment with the arrival of new models from Tata Motors, Renault, and Nissan.
Tata has confirmed the launch of the Curvv (both EV and ICE versions) for 2024. The new-generation Renault Duster and the Nissan 5-seater SUV based on the new Duster are expected to hit the roads in 2025. Here’s a brief overview of the upcoming rivals of the Hyundai Creta.
Upcoming Hyundai Creta Rivals
Tata Curvv
The launch of the Tata Curvv EV is slated for July or September, followed by its ICE version in the next 3-4 months (around the festive season). The coupe SUV will be offered with both petrol and diesel engine options. It will mark the debut of Tata’s all-new 1.2L turbo petrol motor, delivering 125PS and 225Nm of torque. This new petrol engine is built with all-aluminum and benefits from advanced combustion system and high-pressure direct injection technology. It can be paired with a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DCT automatic gearbox. The Tata Curvv diesel is likely to use the Nexon’s 1.5L unit, producing 115bhp and 260Nm of torque. We have seen the Curvv in its near-production avatar at the recently held Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024.
New-Gen Renault Duster
The third-generation Renault Duster was recently revealed via leaked images. Based on the Renault-Nissan Alliance’s CMF-B platform, the SUV shares several design elements with the Dacia Bigster. It features a double-stack grille with slimmer headlamps, massive cladding on the lower section of the front bumper finished in grey, C-pillar integrated rear door handles, pronounced wheel arches with cladding, triangular taillamps, LED turn indicators, and a new tailgate design. The interior of the all-new Duster will undoubtedly be more up-market than its previous model. It will have a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, wireless phone charger, automatic AC, 6-speaker Arkamys 3D sound system, electric parking brake, etc. However, its most significant features will be the ADAS tech and mild hybrid powertrain.
New Nissan 5-Seater SUV
The new Nissan mid-size SUV will be based on the third-gen Duster, meaning it will share several components with its donor sibling. However, its design will be different from the Duster. The SUV is likely to borrow some styling bits from the Magnite subcompact SUV. Rumor has it that the model will initially be introduced with petrol engines only. The company will introduce it with hybrid and electric powertrains at a later stage if there is demand.
