Auto manufacturers roll out most of their highly anticipated cars during festive season, before Diwali to capitalize on the auspicious sentiments. SUVs are selling like hot cake in India, and most of the brands are ready to roll our their SUVs to improve their market share. In this article, we talk about the top 5 most awaited new SUVs to be launched in the Indian market during festive season, before Diwali.
1. Mahindra XUV700 (July-September 2021)
Mahindra has officially announced to launch the 7-seater XUV700 SUV in the third-quarter of 2021. This model is basically the replacement for the existing XUV500; however, Mahindra will re-introduce the XUV500 in new avatar as a 5-seater model. The XUV700 will be positioned against the Tata Safari, MG Hector Plus and the soon-to-be-launched Hyundai Alcazar. It will be based on the new monocoque platform.
The new Mahindra XUV700 will be offered with two engine options – a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol and a 2.2-litre turbocharged diesel. Transmission choices will include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque convertor automatic. The SUV will also receive an AWD (All-Wheel-Drive System) as an optional.
2. Hyundai Alcazar (Mid-2021
Hyundai will introduce the 7-seater Alcazar SUV in the mid-2021. It is based on the Creta’s platform; however, the platform has been tweaked to accommodate longer wheelbase and longer body. The SUV will be made available in 6-and 7-seat options. While the six-seater model will have captain seats for the second row with floor mounted armrest, the 7-seater variant will get the bench-type second-row seat. The Alcazar will rival the Tata Safari, Mahindra XUV700 and the MG Hector Plus.
It will be powered by a new 2.0-litre petrol engine that produces 159PS of power. The diesel version will get the 113bhp, 1.5L turbo-diesel engine. Transmission choices will include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque convertor automatic.
3. Skoda Kushaq (Mid-2021)
Skoda will launch the locally developed Kushaq mid-sized SUV in the mid-2021. Based on the heavily localised MQB AO IN platform, the Skoda Kushaq will be positioned against the Hyundai Creta and the Kia Seltos. It is first vehicle under Volkswagen Group’s India 2.0 strategy. Dimensionally, the new Kushaq measure 4,221mm long, 1,760mm wide and 1,612mm tall, and has a wheelbase of 2651mm. The SUV offers a boot space of 385-litres, which can be extended by folding the second row of seats.
The Skoda Kushaq will be offered with two petrol engines – a 113bhp, 1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged and a 147bhp, 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged. Transmission options will include a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed torque convertor automatic (1.0L only) and a 7-speed DSG automatic with 1.5L petrol.
4. Volkswagen Taigun (September-October 2021)
Volkswagen will introduce the production version of the Taigun mid-sized SUV in the third quarter of 2021. This SUV will share the platform and mechanics with the Skoda Kushaq. It will rival the Hyundai Creta and the Kia Seltos. The SUV’s feature list includes a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support, automatic climate control, ventilated seats, leather upholstery, wireless charging, digital instrument console, electric sunroof and others.
The Taigun’s engine setup will comprise of a 114bhp, 1.0L turbo petrol and a 1.5L turbo petrol unit. Transmission options will include a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed torque convertor automatic (1.0L only) and a 7-speed DSG automatic with 1.5L petrol.
5. New-gen Maruti Vitara Brezza (Sept-Oct 2021)
Maruti Suzuki will launch the second generation Vitara Brezza in the third quarter of 2021. It will be based on the new lightweight HEARTECT platform, which also underpins the Ertiga and the Ciaz. However, this platform could be tweaked for better protection and stability. The SUV will come with modern-day connectivity features along with new infotainment system. Adding to it, the new Brezza will be loaded with high-end features such as electric sunroof, automatic AC, cruise control, etc.
The new Brezza will be powered by a 1.5-litre K15B petrol engine with a stronger hybrid system. The new model will be more fuel efficient than the existing car. Transmission choices will include a 5-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic.
