In the recent past, car buyers are now opting for sub-compact SUVs instead of entry-level hatchbacks. Products including the Maruti Ignis, Renault Kwid and the Maruti S-Presso are few examples in the entry-level SUV segment. This segment will witness the arrival of multiple new SUVs in the next couple of years, and here’s the list –
1. Tata HBX
Tata Motors will launch the production version of the HBX micro SUV in the Indian market in the third quarter of 2021. The new model will be positioned against the Maruti Suzuki Ignis. The concept model was 3,840mm in length, 1822mm in width and 1635mm in height with a wheelbase of 2450mm.
This entry-level SUV will be powered by a new 1.2-litre 3-cylinder naturally-aspirated petrol engine that also powers the Tiago and the Altroz. This engine produces 86bhp and 113Nm of torque. It could also receive the 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine with power close to 100bhp. Transmission choices are likely to include a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT.
2. Hyundai AX1
Hyundai is testing its smallest compact utlity vehicle, codenamed AX1 in South Korea. The new model will be based on the new Grand i10 Nios platform, and will be positioned alongside the Santro in Hyundai’s line-up. The new compact SUV will be positioned against the Maruti Suzuki Ignis and the upcoming Tata HBX. Design of the SUV will be inspired by the Venue compact SUV. The micro SUV could receive the 1.2L 4-cylinder NA petrol engine that produces 82bhp and 114Nm of torque. The SUV could also receive Santro’s 1.1L engine that offers 67bhp and 100Nm of torque. Transmission choices might include 5-speed manual and an AMT gearbox option.
Citroen C21
Citroen will launch its locally developed compact SUV in the country in the second half of 2021. Codenamed C21, the new small SUV will be positioned against the Renault Kiger and the Nissan Magnite. It will be based on the simplified version of the CMP (Common Modular Platform), which underpins the Peugeot 208. The new small SUV will be produced at the CK Birla plant in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. The C21 is reportedly to be powered by a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine with power output close to 99bhp.
Mahindra XUV100
Mahindra has trademarked the XUV100 nameplate, which could be the KUV100 replacement in India. It will be positioned below the XUV300 compact SUV and will rival the Maruti Suzuki Ignis and the upcoming Tata HBX micro SUV. The new model could be the updated version of the KUV100. It is likely to get the same 1.2-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine with manual and automatic gearbox options.
