Last decade has witnessed a big rise of SUVs and it seems like this segment will only grow in the near future. While Tata Motors is betting big on its future SUVs, India’s largest automaker, Maruti Suzuki is also aiming to further expand its base by introducing new SUVs in the market. In fact, Mahindra is also aiming to launch a range of new UVs, mostly SUVs in the Indian market. This year looks promising when it comes to SUVs. Here we bring you a list of top 5 SUVs launching in India this year.
– Nissan Kicks
Japanese automaker, Nissan is planning to bring its global Kicks 5-seater SUV in the Indian market. While the global model is based on Nissan’s V platform, the India-spec model will use the heavily localised BO/Logan platform that also underpins the Terrano. This SUV will share lots of features from the Renault Captur. It will directly rival the Hyundai Creta, which is currently the best-selling model in its league. Kicks will be equipped with several high-end features like touchscreen infotainment system with connected applications, automatic air-conditioning, multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, brake assist, etc. It will share mechanics with the Captur, which includes 108bhp, 1.5-litre K9K diesel and a 105bhp, 1.5-litre petrol engine. Both manual and automatic versions of the SUV will be on offer.
– Tata H5X
Homegrown passenger carmaker, Tata Motors will soon launch a 5-seater premium SUV based on H5X concept. The concept was first previewed at the 2018 Delhi Auto Expo. Production ready version of the Tata H5X will make its debut in November 2018. The company has confirmed that the launch could take place in the first quarter of 2019. The SUV will be powered by Fiat’s sourced 2.0-litre MJD diesel engine that also powers the Jeep Compass. This engine is capable of producing 170bhp of power and 350Nm of torque. The H5X will be brand’s first SUV to be based on Land Rover’s Freelander platform – Called OMEGA. For transmission duties, the SUV will get a 6-speed manual and a 9-speed automatic gearbox.
– Honda CR-V
In order to expand base, Honda is aiming at premium segment. Besides re-entry of Civic nameplate, Honda will also launch the new generation CR-V SUV in India this year. For the first time, the CRV will be offered with diesel engine in India. Adding to it, Honda will launch the 7-seat version of the SUV. It will be powered by a 1.6-litre i-DTEC diesel engine that is capable of producing 118bhp and 350Nm of torque. The gasoline version will continue to feature the 2.4-litre i-VTEC unit. Transmission options will include a 6-speed manual, CVT and a 9-speed ZF-sourced automatic unit.
– Mahindra XUV300
Homegrown UV maker, Mahindra is ready with its new sub-4 meter SUV for the Indian market. Codenamed S201, the new model is expected to be called Mahindra XUV300. It will be based on SsangYong’s X100 platform that also underpins the Tivoli SUV. If reports are to be believed, this SUV will come with two seat layouts – 5 and 7. While the five-seater model will sit under 4 meter, the 7-seater model will measure above 4 meter in length and will challenge the likes of Hyundai Creta and Renault Duster. The XUV300 is also reportedly the most powerful SUV in its league. It is expected to feature newly developed 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engines.
– Skoda Karoq
Czech automaker, Skoda will launch the Karoq five-seater premium SUV before the end of this fiscal year. To be slotted below Kodiaq, the new model will rival the likes of Jeep Compass and Hyundai Tucson. It will be based on the VW Group’s MQB platform that also underpins the VW Tiguan and Skoda Kodiaq. This SUV will be available in both petrol and diesel guise. The diesel version is likely to be powered by a 2.0-litre TDI engine.
