As we stand on the cusp of 2024, a mere few days away, we find ourselves reflecting on the significant launches of new products and facelifts that unfolded in the preceding year. Gazing ahead into the fresh year, our attention is captivated by the imminent arrival of nine prominent small and compact cars, along with SUVs, set to grace the roads in 2024.
Kia Sonet Facelift
The Kia Sonet facelift, having made its debut this month, is set for release in January 2024. The subcompact SUV undergoes notable cosmetic updates and feature upgrades, including the reintroduction of the diesel-manual combo. Its engine options—83bhp, 1.2L petrol; 120bhp, 1.0L turbo petrol; and 116bhp, 1.5L diesel—remain unchanged. The new Sonet boasts a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster borrowed from the Seltos, a small climate control display, new seat upholstery, and Level 1 ADAS. Design highlights include larger LED headlamps, new LED DRLs, revised skid plates, 16-inch alloy wheels, updated rear bumper, and a roof-mounted spoiler.
Tata Punch EV
The Tata Punch EV, initially rumored for a 2023 festive season launch, did not materialize. This electric micro SUV, will be equipped with Tata’s Ziptron powertrain and multiple battery options, features a permanent magnet synchronous motor and a liquid-cooled battery. Notably, it will be Tata’s first EV with a front-mounted charging socket on the bumper. Built on the Gen2 EV architecture, it will compete with the Citroen eC3 in terms of pricing.
Mahindra XUV300 Facelift
In February 2024, the spotlight will shine on the Mahindra XUV300 facelift. Drawing inspiration from Mahindra’s BE SUV lineup, the subcompact SUV will adopt a more angular nose, revised bumper, new LED DRLs, and a two-part grille with a larger central air intake. A major In February 2024, the Mahindra XUV300 facelift will grace showrooms. Drawing inspiration from Mahindra’s BE SUV lineup, it will sport a more angular nose, revised bumper, new LED DRLs, a two-part grille with a larger central air intake, newly-designed alloys, and a redesigned tailgate. A significant update will include a new 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox, while the engine setup remains unchanged. The facelift will introduce a segment-first panoramic sunroof and a larger 10.25-inch infotainment system.
Toyota Taisor
Toyota Kirloskar Motor trademarked the ‘Urban Cruiser Taisor’ name, likely for the re-badged version of the Maruti Suzuki Fronx. Intended as a replacement for the discontinued Toyota Urban Cruiser in 2022, the Taisor will receive cosmetic changes such as a new front grille and revised bumper. It retains the interior layout and features while housing the 1.0L Boosterjet petrol and 1.2L naturally aspirated petrol engines, delivering 100bhp with 147Nm and 90bhp, respectively.
New-Gen Maruti Swift/Dzire
Maruti Suzuki will introduce the new-generation Swift hatchback and Dzire compact sedan in the early months of 2024. The highlight of both models will be the new 1.2L, 3-cylinder Z12E engine, emphasizing power and fuel efficiency. Lower variants of the 2024 Swift are expected to retain the current 1.2L, 4-cylinder Dualjet petrol motor. The hatchback’s interior, that will reminiscent of the Fronx and Baleno, features a dual-tone theme, a flat-bottom steering wheel, analogue dials, and toggle switches for climate controls. The new Swift and Dzire will be designed on the heavily modified Heartect platform, promising a lighter, more rigid, and frugal driving experience.
New-Gen Honda Amaze
In 2024, Honda Cars India will undergo a generational change with the new-gen Honda Amaze. Although no official word has been released, a prototype was captured during test rounds. Drawing design inspiration from the new City sedan, the Amaze is expected to offer the Honda Sensing Suite, including ADAS tech. The new-gen Honda Amaze will feature a free-standing touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity and a new interior theme. Power will come from the same 1.2L, 4-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine, producing 90bhp and 110Nm. Transmission options remain unchanged.
Tata Altroz Facelift/Altroz Racer Edition
Tata Motors will introduce the updated Altroz hatchback and Altroz Racer Edition in 2024. The Altroz Racer Edition, previously showcased at the Auto Expo, comes with the 1.2L, 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine, delivering 120bhp and 170Nm of torque. Transmission duties are handled by a 6-speed manual transmission. On the exterior, the Tata Altroz Racer Edition features sporty graphics, all-black upholstery with contrasting red stitching, and red and white stripes with ‘Racer’ embossing on the head restraints.
