Top 5 Upcoming SUVs in India: Citroen C3 Aircross, Hyundai Exter, Honda Elevate and More

In recent years, SUVs have emerged as the dominant force in the Indian automotive segment. These vehicles have gained immense popularity due to their commanding presence on the road and elevated driving position, which enhances driver control. The high ground clearance, spacious interiors, and advanced features of SUVs make them the preferred choice among Indian customers compared to other four-wheeler body styles. Moreover, the SUV market offers a wide range of options to suit various budgets. In the coming months, several new and revamped SUVs are expected to make their entry into the country, with top automakers like Hyundai, Kia, and others introducing their automobiles loaded with features. Although the list of upcoming SUVs is extensive, we have narrowed it down to the top five models that will soon be available in our country. Let's explore these five SUVs in terms of engines, costs, competitors, and other details. 

Honda Elevate 

The recently debuted Honda Elevate will go on sale in the country during the festive season. It will initially only be available with a petrol engine – the 1.5-litre iVTEC petrol engine, with a maximum output of 120bhp and 145Nm. For transmission, it will use either a 6-speed manual gearbox or a CVT gearbox. Moving to the price, the new Elevate is expected to cost around Rs 11 lakh. After the launch, it will compete with the likes of the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and more.

Also Read: Honda Elevate vs Hyundai Creta SUV Comparison: Here's What We Know So Far

Citroen C3 Aircross

The upcoming Citroen C3 Aircross SUV is set to make its entry into the Indian market soon. The B-SUV by Citroen is expected to carry a price tag of Rs 9 lakh (ex-showroom). Under the hood, the mid-size SUV will feature a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine, delivering a maximum power output of 108bhp and a peak torque of 190Nm. It will come equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox. According to some reports, an automatic transmission option might be introduced later, as suggested by industry reports. In terms of competition, the future mid-size SUV will be up against other B-segment SUVs like the Hyundai Creta, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, and others. 

Hyundai Exter

The all-new Hyundai Exter is scheduled for its official launch in our market on July 10. This South Korean SUV will be available with a 1.2-litre petrol engine and will also offer a compressed natural gas (CNG) option. The CNG version will come with a manual gearbox, while the petrol variant will be offered with a choice between a five-speed manual or an AMT automatic transmission. The expected price range for the Hyundai Exter is between Rs 6 lakh and Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom). In terms of competition, the SUV will face rivals such as the Tata Punch, Citroen C3, Nissan Magnite, Renault Kiger, and Maruti Suzuki Fronx in the market.

Kia Seltos Facelift

According to reports, the facelifted version of the Seltos SUV is expected to be launched in July 2023. The powertrain options are likely to remain similar to the earlier model, with the 1.5-litre petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engines being carried over. However, there is speculation that an additional 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine could be offered as well. As for pricing, the 2023 model is expected to be more expensive than the current iteration, which starts at Rs 10.89 lakh (ex-showroom) in India. When it hits the Indian market, the Seltos SUV will compete against rivals such as the Skoda Kushaq, Hyundai Creta, and others.

Also Read: New Tata Nexon Interior Spied Ahead of India Launch, Shows 2-Spoke Steering with Illuminated Logo

Tata Nexon Facelift

The upcoming revamped Tata Nexon is set to make its entry into the Indian market soon. In terms of mechanics, Tata will not be making any modifications, and the SUV is expected to retain the same powertrain options. This includes the 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine and the 1.5-litre diesel engine, both of which will be available with manual and automatic gearbox options. While the price announcement is yet to be made, several market reports suggest that the redesigned Nexon will have a starting price of around Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom). Additionally, these reports indicate that the top-spec model of the 2023 Nexon could be priced at approximately Rs 16 lakh (ex-showroom).