While the SUV segment is booming in India, the small cars are still generating a large volume in the domestic passenger vehicle market. In order to attract first-time buyers and more customers from Tier II and III towns, car manufacturers such as Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Citroen and MG will introduce new small cars (hatchbacks) in 2023. While the Indo-Japanese automaker will bring in the new-generation Maruti Swift, Hyundai will update the Nios Grand i10 model lineup. Citroen and MG will enter into the mass-market electric car segment. Here’re some key details of the upcoming small cars.
Upcoming Small Cars In India
New-Gen Maruti Swift
The next-generation Suzuki Swift is reported to have its world premiere in December, followed by its India debut in January 2023. It’s surely one of the most-anticipated upcoming small cars in India. The hatchback’s new model will be based on the modified version of the Heartect platform. It will come with improved and more angular design along with a bunch of new features. The new 2023 Maruti Swift might get a new SmartPlay Pro+ touchscreen infotainment system with wireless smartphone connectivity and Suzuki Connect connected car tech. If reports are to be believed, the new Swift will feature the 1.2L naturally aspirated petrol engine that will come with and without mild hybrid tech. More details here…
Updated Hyundai Nios Grand i10
The South Korean automaker will roll out the Hyundai Nios Grand i10 facelift sometime in 2023. Its testing has already been commenced in the country. The spy images reveal that the new Nios Grand i10 will witness minor changes inside and out. There could be new interior theme and upholstery. The front fascia will be revised with slightly updated grille and headlamps with LED DRLs. Its engine setup will also remain unchanged. The hatchback’s new model is likely to be offered with the same 1.2L NA, 1.0L turbo petrol and 1.2L petrol CNG fuel options. Both manual and AMT gearboxes will be on offer. More details here…
Citroen C3 EV
Citroen C3 EV is one of the upcoming small cars that will hit roads in early 2023. The model is likely to be offered with a 50kWh battery pack sourced from the Peugeot e-208. It has an electric motor generating a maximum power of 136PS and 260Nm of torque. The electric C3 will deliver a range of 350km (as per the WLTP cycle) on a full charge. Reports suggest that there will also be a smaller capacity battery promising a range of around 300km – 350km. Most of its design, features and components will be similar to the ICE-powered C3. More details here…
MG City EV
MG Motor India is all set to launch a new small electric car by June 2023. Based on the China-spec Wuling Air EV, the MG City EV could be offered with the battery capacity ranging between 20kWh – 25kWh. It will offer power worth around 40bhp and range around 150km in real world condition. MG’s upcoming small electric car is expected to cost around Rs 11 – Rs 15 lakh. In order to achieve competitive pricing, the carmaker will source its batteries and components locally. It will be a based on MG’s Global Small Electric Vehicles (GSEV) platform that’s compatible to multiple body styles. More details here…
