Several new cars have been launched since lockdown restrictions were eased in the country. With aim to take advantage of the upcoming festive seasons and improved market sentiments, carmakers are gearing up to launch a range new models in different segments. Here’s a brief on the top 5 new cars that are slated to launch in the next 4 months (i.e. September – December, 2020).
1. Kia Sonet
Bookings have opened for the upcoming Kia Sonet subcompact SUV, which will be offered in two trims (Tech Line and GT line) and 3 engines and 5 gearbox options. Powertrains are shared with the Hyundai Venue, though the Sonet is the first in its segment to offer diesel-automatic combination. Buyers will have 1.0L turbo petrol , 1.2L naturally-aspirated petrol and 1.5L turbo diesel engines to choose from. The Sonet looks quite sporty and comes equipped with several segment-first features including a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 7-speaker Bose sound system and more.
2. New-Gen Mahindra Thar
The recently-unveiled 2020 Mahindra Thar is ready to hit roads on 2nd October, 2020. The new model lineup will come in two trims – AX and LX – packed with new petrol and diesel engines. While the petrol version will use a new 150bhp, 2.0L turbo mStallion motor, the diesel variant will come with a 130bhp, 2.2L turbo unit. A 6-speed manual gearbox will be standard. For the first time the off-road SUV will receive an automatic gearbox. In terms of design, features and off-road capabilities, the new-generation Thar is a lot better than its current generation. In fact, it’s safety quotient has also been classed up.
3. MG Gloster
MG Motor India is ready to foray into the premium 7-seater SUV space with the all-new Gloster that made its first public appearance at this year’s Auto Expo. Slated to launch in October 2020, it’s estimated to cost around Rs 35 lakh and take on the Toyota Fortuner and Ford Endeavour. Though, it will be significantly bigger than its rivals. The carmaker has confirmed that Gloster will be packed with several class-leading safety features including autonomous emergency braking system. Reports suggest that the new MG 7-seater SUV will come with a 2.0L turbo petrol and 2.0L twin-turbo diesel engine. Both manual and automatic gearboxes will be offer.
4. Renault Kiger
Renault Kiger will be the smallest and most affordable SUV from the French carmaker in the country. The small SUV will be based on the CMF-A+ platform that also underpins the Kwid hatchback and Triber compact MPV. While its official details are yet to be announced, the Kiger is reported to be offered with petrol engine only. The SUV might come with the naturally-aspirated and turbocharged version of the 1.0L engine. While the former will get manual and AMT gearbox, the latter will be exclusively offered with a CVT automatic gearbox. The spy pictures confirm that the Kiger will carry SUV-ish stance with compact dimensions.
5. New-Gen Hyundai i20
Hyundai’s popular i20 premium hatchback is set for a generation change in the country. If reports are to be believed, the 2020 Hyundai i20 might hit showrooms in the month of October. The hatchback’s new model will be packed with several new goodies including a bigger 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a Bose sound system, digital instrument console and air purifier with virus protection. Engine setup will include a 1.0L turbo petrol, a 1.2L naturally-aspirated petrol and a 1.5L turbo diesel unit. Similar to the Venue, the new i20 might be offered with the new iMT (Intelligent Manual Transmission) gearbox. There will also be a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed DCT automatic gearbox on offer.
