Despite COVID-19 Pandemic, Auto manufacturers in India are gearing up to launch their one of the most important products. While VW Group will enter into the mid-sized SUV segment, Tata Motors will launch its smallest SUV. In this article, we talk about the top 6 most awaited new cars to be launched by October, before Diwali 2021.
1. Skoda Kushaq
Skoda will launch the Kushaq mid-sized SUV in June 2021. The new model will mark the debut of Volkswagen Group’s locally developed MQB AO IN platform, which will also underpin a new mid-sized sedan. The new Skoda Kushaq will be positioned against the likes of the Hyundai Creta and the Kia Seltos. It will be offered with two engine options – a 113bhp, 1.0L turbocharged petrol with 6MT & 6AT, and a 148bhp, 1.5L turbocharged petrol with 6MT & a 7-speed DSG.
Launch – June 2021
Expected Price – Rs 9.5 Lakh to Rs 16 Lakh
2. Hyundai Alcazar
Korean automaker, Hyundai will launch the Alcazar 7-seater SUV in the end of June 2021. It is based on the Creta’s platform, which is modified to accommodate a longer body and wheelbase. The wheelbase is increased by 150mm to accommodate third row of seats. The SUV will come in 6-and 7-seat options with former to get captain seats for second row. It will be offered with two engine options – a 157bhp, 2.0L petrol and a 113bhp, 1.5L diesel. Transmission options will include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque convertor automatic.
Launch – June 2021
Expected Price – Rs 13 Lakh to Rs 20 Lakh
3. Volkswagen Taigun
Volkswagen will launch the Taigun mid-sized SUV by August-September 2021. It is based on the MQB AO IN platform, which also underpins the Skoda Kushaq. This model will be positioned as a premium model, and will be equipped with high-end features. The Kushaq could also get the segment-first ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System). It will be offered with two engine options – a 113bhp, 1.0L turbocharged petrol with 6MT & 6AT, and a 148bhp, 1.5L turbocharged petrol with 6MT & a 7-speed DSG.
Launch – August-Sept 2021
Expected Price – Rs 10 Lakh to Rs 17 Lakh
4. Mahindra XUV700
Mahindra will launch the long-awaited XUV700 7-seater SUV by October 2021. The new model will be based on the newly developed monocoque platform with a provision of four-wheel-drive system. It will come as a replacement for the existing XUV500. The new XUV700 will rival the Tata Safari, MG Hector Plus and the Hyundai Alcazar. t will be offered with two engine options – a 2.2-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel and a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol. While the former can produce around 185bhp of power, the turbocharged petrol engine is likely to offer around 190bhp and 350Nm of torque. Transmission choices will include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque convertor automatic.
Launch – October 2021
Expected Price – Rs 14 Lakh to Rs 22 Lakh
5. New Maruti Celerio
Maruti Suzuki will introduce the second generation Celerio during this festive season, before Diwali. The new model will come with noticeable changes inside and out along with a more powerful petrol engine. It will be based on the new HEARTECT platform, which also underpins the S-Presso and the Wagon R. The small car will rival the Tata Tiago and the Hyundai Santro. It will be offered with two engine options – a 82bhp, 1.2L petrol and a 67bhp, 1.0L petrol. Transmission choices will include a 5-speed MT & a 5-speed AMT.
Launch – July-September 2021
Expected Price – Rs 4.5 Lakh to Rs 6.5 Lakh
6. Tata HBX Micro SUV
Tata Motors will launch the HBX micro SUV by October 2021. It will be based on the new ALFA modular platform, which also underpins the Altroz hatchback. The small SUV is rumoured to be called the Tata Timero. The entry-level SUV will receive the 1.2-litre 3-cylinder naturally-aspirated engine that also powers the Tiago and the Altroz. This engine produces 86bhp and 113Nm of torque. It could also receive the 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine with power close to 100bhp. Transmission choices are likely to include a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT.
Launch – Sept-Oct 2021
Expected Price – Rs 5 Lakh to Rs 7 Lakh
7. MG Astor (ZS Petrol)
MG will launch the petrol derivative of the ZS SUV in the Indian market by Diwali 2021. Rumoured to be called the MG Astor, the SUV will be positioned against the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos and the upcoming VW Taigun and the Skoda Kushaq. MG Astor could be the first model in its segment to offer ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System). In fact, MG has been testing the emergency brakes on the Astor SUV in India. It is likely to come with two engine options – a 120bhp, 1.5-litre 4-cylinder naturally-aspirated petrol and a 163bhp, 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol. Both manual and automatic gearbox options are likely to be on offer.
Launch – Sept-Oct 2021
Expected Price – Rs 11 Lakh to Rs 17 Lakh
