The Indian car market is witnessing a phenomenal rise in the popularity of SUVs. Automakers are cashing in on this trend by launching a slew of exciting new models, each vying for a larger slice of the market pie. Buckle up, car enthusiasts, as we explore the hottest upcoming SUVs in India for 2024!
Citroen Basalt: A Stylish Coupe Adventure
Citroen caused quite a stir with the Citroen Basalt Vision Concept, unveiled specifically for the South African and Indian markets. This head-turning coupe-SUV, soon to be christened C3X, is expected to hit Indian roads in the latter half of 2024. Sharing its platform with the C3 Aircross, the Basalt boasts a 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine churning out a healthy 110 bhp and 205 Nm of peak torque. Transmission options include a smooth 6-speed manual and a convenient torque converter automatic gearbox. Be prepared for some serious street cred, as the Citroen Basalt will lock horns with the likes of the upcoming Tata Curvv.
Tata Curvv: A Familiar Face, Futuristic Ambitions
Remember the sleek Tata Curvv showcased at the 2024 Bharat Mobility Global Expo? Get ready to see it rolling on Indian roads soon! The production version of the Curvv is expected to launch around mid-2024, with the electric variant following shortly after. The Curvv’s exterior boasts a familiar Tata fascia, modern flush door handles, sporty 18-inch alloy wheels, and a captivating sloping roofline. Under the hood, you’ll find the tried-and-tested 1.5-litre turbo diesel engine from the Nexon, alongside the exciting new 1.2-litre tGDi petrol engine. The Curvv is all set to challenge the recently revealed Citroen C3X (Basalt Vision) for supremacy in the Indian market.
Kia EV9: The Electric Juggernaut Arrives
Kia’s flagship electric SUV, the EV9, first mesmerized Indian audiences at the 2023 Auto Expo in concept form. As part of Kia’s 2.0 strategy, the Korean carmaker has confirmed the EV9’s launch in India this year (2024). This impressive three-row electric behemoth will sit proudly above the popular EV6 in Kia’s Indian portfolio. Internationally, the EV9 boasts multiple powertrain options, including both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. With a mighty 99.8 kWh battery pack, the Kia EV9 boasts a staggering WLTP claimed range of up to 541 kilometres on a single charge – perfect for those long, eco-friendly road trips!
Mahindra Thar 5-Door Armada: Unleash the Off-Road Beast
Calling all adventure seekers! The mighty Mahindra Thar is about to get even mightier with the arrival of the much-anticipated 5-Door Armada. Scheduled for a grand debut on India’s Independence Day (August 15, 2024), the Thar Armada is expected to go into production around June. Sharing its underpinnings with the Scorpio N, the Thar Armada promises enhanced practicality with its additional doors. Recent spy images reveal a top-spec model loaded with goodies – think 19-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, front parking sensors, dazzling LED headlamps, a massive 10.25-inch infotainment system, a stylish new steering wheel, and much more. Powering this beast are the familiar 2.2-litre mHawk diesel and a 2.0-litre mStallion petrol engine, mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. While launch will see only the 4WD option available, Mahindra might introduce a more affordable RWD variant later.
Toyota Taisor: A Familiar Face with a Toyota Touch
Get set to see a new player in the compact SUV segment! Toyota is all geared up to launch the Maruti Suzuki Fronx-based Taisor in the Indian market on April 3, 2024. Sharing its platform and powertrain with the Fronx, the Taisor offers a familiar yet Toyota-fied experience. The engine options include the reliable 1.2-litre K12C engine in both petrol and CNG variants, along with the peppy 1.0-litre BoosterJet turbo petrol motor. In terms of design, expect some subtle tweaks to the bumpers,
