The sales data shows that the SUV segment is growing at a tremendous pace despite troubled market. Buyers are opting compact and entry-level SUVs over hatchbacks. Here’s a brief on the top 4 upcoming small SUVs, which are slated to hit roads in the next couple of years.
1. Tata HBX
Tata HBX concept based small SUV is currently in its final testing phase and is reported to launch by October 2021. Its production-ready version could be named ‘Tata Timero’. In terms of design, the mini SUV is likely to stay true to its concept that broke cover at the 2020 Auto Expo. The model will be based on the Alfa platform that underpins the Altroz premium hatchback. Under the hood, Tata’s new entry-level SUV is likely to house a 86bhp, 1.2L naturally aspirated petrol or a 100bhp, 1.2L turbocharged petrol motor. The mini SUV is estimated to cost from Rs 5 lakh onwards.
2. Citroen CC21
The French carmaker is ready to foray into the small SUV space with the Citroen CC21 during 2021 festive season. Based on the CMP platform, the model is likely to be India’s first flexi fuel vehicle. Reports suggest that the CC21 could be offered with a 1.2L petrol motor with ethanol blends (ranging from 27% to 100%). The gasoline unit will make 118bhp and 150Nm. Both manual and automatic gearboxes will be on offer. Its design will be inspired by bigger Citroen cars such as C3 Aircross and C5 Aircross. The CC21 will be the brand’s first model under its –Cubed programme. Its prices could be as low as Rs 5-6 lakh.
3. Hyundai AX1
Hyundai AX1 (codename) will mark the South Korean carmaker’s entry into the small SUV segment. The production version of the vehicle will make its world debut in coming months, followed by its launch. Dimensionally, it will be smaller than the Venue. Engine setup of the new Hyundai mini SUV might include a 1.2L naturally aspirtated petrol engine that’s good for 83bhp and 114Nm. The lower variants could be offered with the 1.1L, 3-cylinder motor that does duty in the Santro hatchback. The model will carry the brand’s new design language and come with a host of features. The AX1 is likely to come in the price range of Rs 5.5 lakh – Rs 8.5 lakh.
4. Mahindra XUV100
In April 2021, Mahindra & Mahindra trademarked three new nameplates including XUV100, XUV400 and XUV900. As of now, there is no official information which moniker will be used for which new Mahindra SUV. If reports are to be believed, the Mahindra XUV100 will be a small SUV to challenge the upcoming Tata HBX and Hyundai AX1. While the XUV400 name could be used for a Creta rival, the XUV900 will be a Coupe SUV based on the Aero XUV concept. The upcoming XUV100 could be introduced as a replacement to the KUV100. It could be quite early to comment on its launch timeline.
