Upcoming car launches for the month of March-April 2021

With the end of the first quarter of 2021 nearing, car manufacturers have upped their games and announced their plans for the next quarter and the rest of the year.

While the pandemic delayed the plans of most car manufacturers, some of them hardly seem deterred by it and have already started revealing their plans for the rest of the year. Following is a list of cars that will be launched in March and April 2021. While we have already driven a few from the list, we can’t wait to get our hands on the others on the list.

Skoda Kushaq

While the Skoda Kushaq is all set to make a global debut on March 18, 2021. The Czech manufacturer could most likely launch the compact SUV around mid-April. The Skoda Kushaq marks the new beginning of a new era under the VW Group’s India 2.0' project. As a part of the new strategy, the Kushaq will be based on MQB-A0 IN platform, which has been specially developed for the Indian market. And Skoda has also confirmed that the compact SUV will be localised up to 95 per cent. The Skoda Kushaq will be offered with two engine options – a 1.0-litre three-cylinder and a 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine. For the former, the choice of transmissions will be between a six-speed manual and a six-speed torque converter automatic, while the latter will come with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. The prices for the Skoda Kushaq are expected to be between Rs 8-12 lakh (ex-showroom).

Jeep Wrangler

Jeep Wrangler is all set to be re-launched in the Indian market on March 15, however, this time around Fiat Chrysler Automotive (FCA) will locally assemble the off-roader. Previously, when the Jeep Wrangler was offered as a CBU (Completely Built-up Unit), it was priced between Rs 64-69 lakh. However, at the re-launch, expect the prices to begin at Rs 55 lakh. Earlier this year, FCA announced a $250 million investment to kick start the local assembly of some Jeep models in India. As a part of the project, Jeep plans to locally assemble and launch the Grand Cherokee and a new 7-seater SUV in India.

BMW M340i

After the launch of the BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine, BMW is all set to cater to enthusiasts with the launch of the BMW M340i, which is scheduled for March 10, 2021. The M340i will be locally assembled in India, which will allow BMW to be competitive in terms of pricing. However, it will be the most expensive amongst all the 3 series on sale in India, so expect the price to be between Rs 55-60 lakh (ex-showroom). The M340i will use a straight-six twin-turbo engine, which will come mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox. The power figures stand at 381bhp and 500Nm of torque.

Citroen C5 Aircross 

While the bookings for the Citroen C5 Aircross have commenced already, there is no confirmed launch date from the French manufacturer yet. However, the C5 Aircross is expected to debut in the first week of April, with an ex-showroom price of Rs 28 – 30 lakh. The Citroen C5 Aircross will rival the Jeep Compass, Hyundai Tucson, Honda CR-V, Skoda Karoqm and the soon-expected 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan 5-seater. Citroen will bring the C5 Aircross via the CKD (Completely Knocked Down Unit) route and will offer it in two trim levels – Feel and Shine.

Mercedes-Benz A-Class limousine

The German car manufacturer is about to set a new entry point in its portfolio and will soon launch the most affordable Mercedes-Benz, the A-Class Limousine in India on March 25. The Mercedes-Benz A-Class Limousine will get two engine options to choose from – a 1.3-litre turbo petrol and a 2.0-litre diesel. The choice of transmission for the petrol variant is the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, while the diesel uses an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Also, the Mercedes-Benz AMG A35 will debut alongside the standard car. The A35 will use a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine, which is good for 306bhp and 400Nm. After the GLC 43 Coupe, the Mercedes-Benz AMG will be the second car to be locally assembled in the Indian market. Expect an ex-showroom price tag of Rs 35 – 40 lakh for the standard A-Class Limousine and of around Rs 60 lakh for the AMG variant.

Also Read,

Citroen C5 Aircross Review: First Drive

Skoda Kushaq Prototype – First Drive