A sizeable portion of the Indian automobile market is populated by compact cars. In this sector, there is substantial demand for these small yet stylishly designed four-wheelers mainly because of rising disposable income and changing lifestyle preferences. Major automakers, like Maruti Suzuki, Toyota, and Tata Motors, provide an impressive assortment of vehicles in this segment to appeal to modern as well as conventional Indian buyers. Within this category, some compact cars spanning multiple segments—from SUVs to hatchbacks and sedans—will shortly make their way to the Indian market. We've created a list of the top five upcoming compact cars in India, encompassing both new and facelift versions. Let's take a more in-depth look at the features, engine, anticipated price, and other aspects of these vehicles from different manufacturers.
Tata Punch EV
While the launch date of the electric Punch has not yet been officially announced by the company, it is expected that the car will hit Indian roads by the end of 2023. It will compete against the Citroen eC3 and the Hyundai Exter and is expected to cost around Rs 10 lakh ex-showroom (starting price). The model will include a new front grille, LED headlight clusters, and a front bumper incorporated with a charging outlet, among other EV-specific alterations. Furthermore, unlike the standard model, it will have distinctively designed alloy wheels. The electrified Punch will probably offer two battery pack versions, potentially based on the Tiago.ev or Nexon.ev.
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Kia Sonet Facelift
According to reports, Kia intends to launch the Sonet facelift in the country during the first quarter of 2024. The upcoming Sonet will likely offer the same range of engine options, comprising a 1.2-litre NA Petrol with 83bhp, a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol unit with 118bhp, and a 1.5-L turbo diesel motor with 114bhp. The choices for transmission include a 5-speed manual, a 6-speed iMT, a 7-speed DCT, and a 6-speed torque converter automatic. The car is anticipated to have significant cosmetic upgrades, which might result in a high price tag compared to the existing model. In our market, the current version of Sonet ranges in price from Rs 7.79 lakh to Rs 14.89 lakh (all prices are ex-showroom Delhi).
Toyota Taisor
Toyota Kirloskar Motor's recently registered moniker, Urban Cruiser Taisor, is expected to be applied to its upcoming SUV, a rebadged version of the Maruti Suzuki Fronx. The forthcoming small SUV from the Japanese automaker is expected to feature a drivetrain similar to the Fronx. The Maruti Suzuki Fronx currently has two petrol engine options: a 1.0-litre Boosterjet mill that produces 100bhp and 147Nm and a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated motor that makes 90bhp and 113Nm. The vehicle is anticipated to come equipped with a 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless smartphone connectivity, voice assistant capabilities, OTA updates, a wireless charger, a six-speaker sound system, fast USB charging ports, a rearview camera, and six airbags. While there is no official word on when the SUV will be available, it is expected to arrive in our market the next year.
New Mahindra XUV300
The revised Mahindra XUV300 is predicted to make its entry in India at the beginning of next year. The anticipated 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission, which will take the place of the current 6-speed AMT, is said to be the most significant mechanical change. According to market reports, the new gearbox will make driving the SUV more pleasurable. However, the engine mix is unlikely to change. The 1.5-litre diesel, 1.2-litre turbo-petrol, and 1.2-litre direct injection turbo-petrol engines will be retained. On the feature front, the new XUV300 is expected to sport a panoramic sunroof, a first in its class. Furthermore, the SUV might be outfitted with ADAS (advanced driver assistance system) technology.
Maruti Suzuki Swift
Suzuki debuted its brand-new Swift car concept at the Tokyo Motor Show in early October 2023, and shortly after that, a Maruti Suzuki Swift test mule was spotted in our market. According to spy photos, the car retains many of the Swift's traditional traits, though there are some modifications, including a reworked grille, new alloy wheels, and front and bumper enhancements.
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The recently introduced Z12E 1.2-litre petrol engine, which will power the Swift for the Japanese market, made its debut at the most recent Japan auto show. It will come with an all-wheel drive configuration and a CVT gearbox. Speculations are rife that this fresh powerplant will also power the India-bound Swift, however, the engine's output is unknown. It is important to keep in mind that none of these details have been confirmed, as the company has not yet provided any information.
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