In the recent times, we have seen several successful launches of new 7-seater SUVs and MPVs in the Indian market. The utility vehicles like the Mahindra XUV700, Mahindra Scorpio-N and the new Toyota Innova Hycross have received an overwhelming response from car buyers. The trend will continue, as multiple new utility vehicles will be introduced in the Indian market in the next couple of years –
New Kia Carnival
The Korean automaker, Kia has officially announced that the new gen Carnival 3-row MPV in the Indian market in 2024. The company had showcased the KA4 RV (Recreational Vehicle) concept at the 2023 Auto Expo. This is basically the new Carnival that is already on sale in several international markets. The new model grows in size and is more premium & feature-loaded cabin. It comes with an advanced ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) suite. The ADAS tech will offer features like adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane assist, and blind spot monitoring, among others. It is powered by the same 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine that produces 200bhp and 440Nm of torque. The transmission duties will be handled by an 8-speed ‘Sportsmatic’ automatic gearbox.
Kia EV9
Not just the new-gen Carnival, the Korean automaker will also launch the EV9 flagship electric SUV in 2024. The 3-row SUV comes with multiple seating layout, depending on the variant. It is based on the same skateboard platform that underpins the Kia EV6. In the global markets, the e-SUV is available with 3 powertrain options. There are two battery options – a 76.1kWh and a 99.8kWh. While the former is offered with RWD standard version, the latter is available with both RWD long-range and AWD variants. The RWD long range model with rear axle mounted electric motor is rated at 150kW & 350Nm. There is a more powerful 160kW/350Nm, single electric motor option. The AWD version has two electric motors that offer 283kW & 600Nm. This EV is claimed to offer a certified range of 541km on a single charge.
New Toyota Fortuner
Toyota has started working on the new gen Fortuner 3-row SUV, which is expected to be launched in 2024-25. The new Toyota Fortuner SUV will be designed and developed on an all-new TNGA-F architecture, which currently underpins multiple global cars including the Land Cruiser 300, Lexus LX500d and the new Tacoma pickup. This platform is compatible with different body styles and multiple engine options including ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) and hybrid. The SUV will also receive a 2.8-litre turbo diesel engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid setup. The hybrid setup comprises of a 48-volt battery, a small electric motor generator and other components. The hybrid setup is likely to improve the fuel efficiency by 10% and will provide enhanced torque assist.
7-Seater Toyota Corolla Cross
The Japanese automaker, Toyota is also working on a new 7-seater SUV to rival the likes of the Mahindra XUV700 and the Jeep Meridian. This new model is reportedly to be based on the TNGA-C modular platform, which also underpins the Innova Hycross. The new model is likely to be the 7-seater version of the Corolla Cross SUV. The wheelbase of the India-spec version is likely to ride a 150mm longer wheelbase than the Corolla Cross (2,640mm). The new Toyota 340D 7-seaterSUV is likely to be offered with two powertrain options – a 2.0-litre petrol with a strong hybrid tech and a 2.0-litre petrol. Both manual and automatic gearbox options will be on offer.
7-Seater Maruti Grand Vitara
Maruti Suzuki is also reportedly working on an all-new 7-seater SUV, which will be based on the Grand Vitara SUV. The 7-seater Maruti Grand Vitara will rival the Hyundai Alcazar, Tata Safari and the Mahindra XUV700. It is reportedly to be launched sometime in 2024. The SUV will ride on a longer wheelbase to accommodate the third row of seats. It could be offered with two seating layouts – 6 and 7-seater with former having captain seats in the second-row. Internally called the Project Y17, the new 3-row SUV is likely to feature a 1.5-litre K15C naturally-aspirated petrol engine with the mild hybrid technology. Similar to the 5-seater SUV, the 7-seater Grand Vitara could get AWD (All-Wheel-Drive) system.
Nissan X-Trail
The Japanese automaker, Nissan has announced to launch the X-Trail 3-row SUV in the Indian market in 2024. This premium SUV will rival the likes of the Skoda Kodiaq, Toyota Fortuner, and Volkswagen Tiguan. It is built on the Renault-Nissan CMF-C platform and offered with two engine options – a 2.5L petrol and a 1.5L turbo petrol with mild hybrid technology. It is likely to get Nissan’s E-power technology that comprises of a 1.5L petrol engine and electric motors, available with either a 2WD or AWD system. It delivers a claimed power of 204bhp with 330Nm and 213bhp with 500Nm for the 2WD and 4WD setups, respectively.
Volkswagen Tayron
Volkswagen will launch the three-row SUV Tayron in the Indian market in 2025. This model may make its way to India by early 2025 via the CKD (Completely Knocked Down) route. It is based on the MQB-Evo platform, the new Tayron will be offered in both SUV and coupe body styles for global markets. The SUV will be offered with two engine options – a 2.0L turbo petrol and a 2.0L diesel, both of which will benefit from a 48V mild hybrid technology. Transmission duties will be handled by a 7-speed DCT automatic gearbox, and there might be options for both 2WD and AWD.
