With India’s SUV segment developing further, May 2025 brought some significant surprises in the shape of monthly sales. Though some of the giants scaled newer heights, a couple took a massive fall. With increasing competition and the soon-to-come EV and hybrid wave, manufacturers are attempting their best to maintain their grip with updates and discounts. Let’s see how the top 10 SUVs fared during last month.

Maruti Suzuki Brezza Dominates the Segment

Brezza held on to the number one spot with 15,566 units, up 10% from May 2024. Practicality, mileage and enhanced design of the compact SUV remain a major draw among both urban and rural consumers. Its steady sales growth is proof of its appeal in India’s increasing SUV market.

Hyundai Creta Keeps Strong Demand

Creta remained at second position with 14,860 units sold, posting a marginal 1% growth. In spite of fresh competition in the midsize SUV segment, Creta remains in focus due to its well-balanced attributes, brand reputation, and recent facelifts. Hyundai is relying on its stable city pull.

Mahindra Scorpio Climbs with 5% Growth

Scorpio’s tough image contributed to its selling 14,401 units in May 2025, reporting a wholesome 5% growth. With its twin presence in the N and Classic models, the Scorpio continues to have rural as well as urban presence. Its authoritative road presence continues to remain appealing to SUV enthusiasts.

Maruti Suzuki Fronx Sees Steady Uptick

Fronx, which is a new player, picked up pace with 13,584 units retailed and a 7% increase in sales year on year. Its coupe design and budget-friendly nature make it stand out. It’s turning out to be one of the most popular new-generation compact SUVs of Maruti.

Tata Punch Sees Sharp Decline

Punch dipped sharply by 31% YoY to sell just 13,133 units against 18,949 in the year-ago period. Even though Punch is a good micro SUV option, the increasing popularity of similarly priced but roomier alternatives may be taking its sheen away. Tata would perhaps need to re-strategize to revive sales in this space.

Tata Nexon Bounces Back Strongly

Nexon posted a strong bounce back with 13,096 units sold, up 14% YoY. Formerly India’s best-selling SUV, Nexon remains to make waves with various powertrains. The electric variant has also contributed to its prominence, adding to its comeback in sales graphs.

Mahindra Thar Exhibits Dramatic Growth

Thar had a substantial surprise in May at 81% growth with 10,389 units. The lifestyle SUV has had growing interest among all age groups, particularly in urban youngsters. Mahindra’s strategy of offering multiple variants appears to be paying off as Thar picks up pace in cities and hilly areas.

Kia Sonet and Mahindra XUV 3XO post mixed results

Kia Sonet registered 8,054 units, up by 8% year on year. It still finds favour with young customers due to its technology-packed cabin. Conversely, Mahindra XUV 3XO registered a decline of 20% at 7,952 units, based on the possible transition problems from the XUV300 facelift and increasing competition in the segment.

Toyota Hyryder Doubles Its Sales

Toyota’s Hyryder recorded an impressive 94% YoY growth, with 7,573 units sold. Its mild and strong hybrid versions appear to be gaining traction, presenting a frugal option in the midsize SUV segment. Toyota is further ramping up its commitment to hybrids, with new mild-hybrid Fortuner and Legender models launched as well.

SUVs to Watch Out For

SUV buyers can look forward to more soon. Multiple models such as Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara, Mahindra XUV 7e, new-gen Hyundai Venue, Renault Duster and Toyota Urban Cruiser BEV are headed their way. These will be based on EV and hybrid variants, giving the market a fresh competitive era.

Tata Harrier and Safari to Receive New Engines

Tata Motors is overhauling Harrier and Safari with fresh diesel, as well as petrol engines. The diesel upgrade will refine its current 2.0-litre MultiJet engine to produce 180 bhp and up to 380 Nm torque. The brand-new 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine should put out 168 bhp and 280 Nm, with manual and DCT gearbox options. These powertrain revisions will enhance Tata’s SUV performance credentials.

Petrol Variant Expected to Be Cheaper

Tata will position the new petrol variants around ₹1 lakh lower than the present diesel versions. The strategy is intended to widen the Harrier and Safari customer base and cater to market demand for economical yet performance-oriented petrol SUVs.