The next three months are going to super existing for the Indian automobile industry. There will be multiple new cars unveilings and launches for which we are waiting so long. The lineup will include several facelifts, new-generation models of the existing cars including 8 new SUV. Here’s a brief on the upcoming new SUVs, which are scheduled to launch in the next three months (February, March and April 2021).
1. JEEP COMPASS FACELIFT
Jeep’s popular Compass SUV will receive a mid-life update on 27th January, 2021. The model will witness a few changes inside and out including the new 10.1-inch UConnect infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The SUV will come with a new steering wheel, a 360 degree parking camera, newly-designed AC vents and HVAC, double-stitched leather inserts on the dashboard and an 8-way adjustable electric seats. Engine setup, however, will remain intact – i.e. 173bhp, 2.0L diesel and 16bhp, 1.4L petrol.
2. RENAULT KIGER
The next in our list of the soon upcoming new SUVs is the Renault Kiger that made its debut in its concept form in November last year. While its production version will be revealed on 28th January, its launch will possibly take place in February 2021. Based on the CMF-A+ modular platform, the compact SUV will come with the 1.0L naturally aspirated and turbocharged petrol engine options. The Kiger will be smallest and most affordable Renault SUV in India. If reports are to be believed, it will be more feature-laden than the newly-launched Nissan Magnite.
3. TATA SAFARI
The new Tata Safari is surely one of the much-awaited upcoming new SUVs in the country. The model will make its debut on 26th January, followed by its launch in February or March 2021. The SUV will be made available in four trims and two seating configurations. Under the hood, the new Safari will feature the 170bhp, 2.0L diesel engine with 6-speed manual and automatic gearboxes. Initially, it will come with FWD system only. In terms of styling and features, the 2021 Tata Safari will be premium than the Harrier.
4. CITROEN C5 AIRCROSS
Citroen C5 Aircross will be the first offering from the French carmaker in the country. The model is slated to be unveiled on 1st February, which will be followed by its launch. Here, it will be made available in a single variant and across 10 select cities. Being a CKD (Completely Knocked Down) unit, the C5 Aircross is likely to cost around Rs 30 lakh. Powering the SUV could be a 2.0L diesel engine that’s good enough for 177bhp and 400Nm. In India, the new Citroen SUV will be put up against the Hyundai Tucson and Jeep Compass.
5. NEW-GEN MAHINDRA XUV500
The next in our list of upcoming new SUVs is the second-generation Mahindra XUV500 that’s expected to hit roads in March and April 2021. The SUV will take a big leap in terms of design and features. Though, the major changes will be made under the hood. The 2021 Mahindra XUV500 will come with a 190bhp, 2.0L turbo petrol and 185bhp, 2.2L mHawk diesel engines and 6-speed manual and torque converter automatic gearbox options. The new XUV500 could also be the first vehicle in its segment to offer ADAS and largest full screen MID.
6. SKODA KUSHAQ
Skoda Kushaq will be the brand’s first production model to be based on the locally-developed MQB A0 IN platform and developed under its INDIA 2.0 project. The SUV will make its debut in the last week of January, followed by its launch in March or April 2021. The model is likely to come with 1.0L, 3-cylinder turbo petrol and 1.5L, 4-cylinder turbo petrol engine options. There will be three gearboxes on offer – 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic and a 7-speed DSG automatic (for 1.5L petrol variant only). Skoda’s Kushaq will lock horns against the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos.
7. MG ZS PETROL
MG ZS petrol SUV will be the next big launch from the British carmaker in the country. The model is likely to hit showrooms in April 2021. The India-spec model is likely to share its design bits with the globally introduced facelift model. The latter is offered with two engine options – a 118bhp, 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated petrol and a 160bhp, 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol. Transmission choices include a 6-speed automatic, a 5-speed manual or a CVT automatic unit. The ZS petrol will face challenge from cars like Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos and the upcoming Skoda Kushaq and Volkswagen Taigun.
8. NEW-GEN FORCE GURKHA
The new-generation Force Gurkha made its public debut at the 2020 Auto Expo. The off-road SUV is likely to come in the next couple of months. Compared to its current generation, the new one looks more rugged and have more goodies and safety fitments to offer. For power, the model will use the BS6-compliant version of the 2.6L diesel engine with a 5-speed manual gearbox. The motor makes a top power of 90bhp and come with 4WD and 2WD drivetrain systems. Once launched, the 2021 Force Gurkha will take on the Mahindra Thar that received a generation in October last year.
