In this article, we talk about the upcoming new sub-4 meter SUVs to be launched in the Indian market in the next few years –
1. Tata Punch
The homegrown UV maker, Tata Motors will launch the much-awaited sub-4 meter micro SUV based on the HBX concept in September-October 2021. Called the Tata Punch, the new micro SUV will be based on the ALFA modular platform that also underpins the Altroz hatchback. The new model will be positioned against the likes of the Maruti Ignis, Mahindra KUV100 NXT, Renault Kiger and the Nissan Magnite. It’s estimated to be priced as low as 5 lakh and up to Rs 8.5 lakh for the top-end variant (all, ex-showroom).
Based on the IMPACT DESIGN 2.0 philosophy, the new Punch looks largely identical to the concept model. It is expected that the new Tata Punch will measure similar to the concept, which was 3,840mm long, 1,822mm wide and 1,635mm tall. It is expected to feature a wheelbase of 2,450mm. The new Punch micro SUV is expected to be offered with two petrol engine options – a 1.2-litre 3-cylinder naturally-aspirated petrol and a 1.2L turbocharged petrol. Transmission choices are likely to include a 5-speed manual and an AMT unit. The micro SUV could also receive drive modes. It will rival the Maruti Suzuki Ignis and the upcoming Hyundai Casper.
2. Hyundai Casper
Hyundai will present the much-awaited micro SUV, codenamed AX1, in the month of September 2021. Rumoured to be called the Hyundai Casper, the sub-4 meter SUV will first go on sale in South Korea. The micro SUV is likely to be launched in our market in early 2022. It will be based on the Hyundai’s K1 small car platform that underpins the Santro and the Grand i10 Nios.
The Korean media reports that the new micro SUV will measure 3,595mm in length, 1,595mm in width and 1,575mm in height, which makes it smaller than the Santro hatchback. The Korean-spec model is likely to be offered with two engine options – a 76bhp, 1.0-litre naturally-aspirated petrol and a 100bhp, 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol. India-spec model is likely to get the 69PS, 1.1L NA petrol or a 82bhp, 1.2L NA petrol. Transmission options are likely to include a 5-speed manual and an AMT. The top-spec model could also get the 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with manual and automatic gearbox options.
3. Citroen C3
Citroen will unveil the production version of the C21 compact SUV on September 16, 2021. To be called the Citroen C3, the new compact SUV will be positioned against the Kia Sonet and the Hyundai Venue. It will be launched in our market in the first half of 2022. It will be the first car to be produced on the brand’s new CMP (Common Modular Platform) platform.
The production of the new model will commence in India in late December 2021. It will be manufactured at the Thiruvallue plant. The India-spec model will be powered by a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine, which can produce up to 130bhp of power. A 5-speed manual gearbox will come as standard, while a DCT automatic gearbox could join the line-up at a later stage. It is also expected to be the first model to feature flex-fuel system in India.
4. Next-gen Maruti Vitara Brezza
Maruti Suzuki will launch the next-gen Vitara Brezza in 2022. The new model will be based on the advanced version of the HEARTECT platform, which will help MSIL to add modern connectivity features. The new Brezza is reportedly to offer factory-fitted electric sunroof, 6 airbags, wireless charging system, cruise control and connected car tech – INTERNET Features.
The new Brezza will also receive a stronger hybrid system, which should improve its overall efficiency. It will be powered by the 1.5L, 4-cylinder K15B naturally aspirated petrol engine boosted with stronger hybrid tech. The system will include larger battery and a more powerful electric motor. Instead of the 4-speed torque convertor automatic, the new Brezza is likely to get a new 6-speed torque convertor automatic.
5. Maruti Suzuki Jimny
Maruti Suzuki will launch the long wheelbase version of the Jimny off-roader in the country in 2022. The new model will be a 5-door version of the existing model. It will offer seat for 5 adults with rear featuring forward facing seats. The wheelbase of the SUV will be increased by 300mm, while the length will be increased by 300mm. It will measure 3,850mm in length, 1,645mm in width and 1,730mm in height. The SUV will have a wheelbase of 2,550mm, while the ground clearance stands at 210mm. It will have a kerb weight of 1190kg, which is 100kgs higher than the 3-door Sierra.
The new Suzuki Jimny LWB is expected to be powered by a 1.5-litre K15B petrol engine with mild hybrid system. This engine produces 100bhp of power and 130Nm of torque. Transmission options will include a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed torque convertor automatic.
6. Jeep Small SUV
Jeep has confirmed that it is developing a sub-4 meter SUV, which will be positioned below the Renegade in the company’s line-up. The new model will be based on the new CMP platform, which will also underpin the new Citroen C3. Not just platform, the upcoming Jeep SUV will source the engine options and other mechanical parts with the Citroen’s SUV. The SUV will be powered by a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine with power output close to 130bhp.
7. Skoda Compact SUV
If media reports are to be believed, Volkswagen Group is planning to enter into the sub-4 meter SUV segment. The new compact SUV will be launched under the Skoda nameplate. It will be based on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB AO IN platform, which also underpins the Taigun and the Kushaq. This platform will be modified to accomodate cars below 4 meters in length. Internally called the Project 2.5, the new compact SUV is likely to be launched in the second half of 2023. The new model is likely to be powered by a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with manual and automatic gearbox options.
8. MG Compact SUV
It is reported that MG Motors will launch a sub-4 meter SUV in the Indian market. To be positioned below the soon-to-be-launched Astor, the new compact SUV will rival the Tata Nexon, Kia Sonet, Hyundai Venue and others in the category. MG Motors is also developing an all-new platform, which will be designed and developed for the India-specific products. This platform will be versatile enough to accommodate different bodystyles. The report claims that the MG compact SUV is expected to be launched only after 2023.
