The speed of India’s SUV is increasing rapidly, and Tata Punch has made a special identity in this market on its own. But now the match is going to be even more interesting, as the three big companies, Hyundai and Maruti, are preparing to hit the punch directly with their new SUV. If you are thinking of new SUV cars in the near future, then definitely know which new cars are going to come which can challenge the market of Tata Punch.
Read More – Kawasaki Z900 vs Honda CB650R – The ultimate battle of 4-cylinder streetfighters under ₹10.5 lakh
Hyundai Exter Facelift
Hyundai is preparing to bring its famous micro SUV Exter to a new avatar in early 2027. The upcoming Exter Facelift will be more advanced and stylish than before. It is believed that this time the SUV will be slightly longer and higher so that its road presence looks even more powerful.
The design will also see many major changes such as new connected grille, LED headlamps, connected DRLs, and new alloy wheels. LED tail lamps at the rear will give it a more premium look.
Talking inside, Hyundai has focused on making this SUV even more comfortable. It is now expected to feature features such as 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 9.9-inch digital instrument cluster, ventilated front seats, and 360-degree camera. Reclining rear seats for the rear and better upholstery will also be added.
However, technology such as ADAS is less likely to be involved as it may increase the price of the car. The engine will remain the same old 1.2-litre NA petrol engine (81bhp & 113Nm), with manual, AMT, and CNG options.
Hyundai Inster
Hyundai is not just limited to the petrol segment, but is now going to strengthen its hold in the EV segment as well. The company is set to launch a new electric SUV, Hyundai Inster, which will give a tough competition to the Tata Punch EV.
The SUV will be based on Hyundai’s E-GMP platform, which is also used in Kia’s small EVs. The design of the inster is quite futuristic, with circular LED DRLs, LED headlamps, and pixel-like indicators on the front. Block-shaped tail lamps and unique rear bumper elements at the rear will give it a distinct identity.
Talking inward, it offers premium things like two 10.25-inch digital screens (one for infotainment and one for instrument cluster), three-spoke steering wheel, and gear lever behind the steering. Features will include sunroof, heated seats, ambient lighting, and ADAS.
In the international version it comes with two battery options – 42kWh and 49kWh, with the larger battery pack giving a range of around 350km. Hyundai will try to launch it at affordable prices so that it can give a tough challenge to the Punch EV.
Maruti Y43
Maruti Suzuki is also not behind in this race. The company is working on its new micro SUV (codename – Y43) which will directly compete with Tata Punch. There were earlier reports that Maruti would launch its Hustlr SUV, but now the company has focused on a new project.
The SUV will be based on the Heartect platform, which is also used in many of Maruti’s successful cars such as Swift and Baleno. Hopefully, the Y43 will see a boxy design, which will look as strong and compact as the Punch.
Inward Maruti will keep it simple yet functional, so that its price remains affordable. It will be given a new 1.2-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine for power, which will generate 80bhp of power and 113Nm of torque. The engine will come with 5-speed manual and AMT gearbox, making it perfect for both the city and the highway.
Although the launch date of this SUV has not been fixed yet, it is believed that the company will soon share some more updates related to it.
