Upcoming Small SUVs For First Time Car Buyers

In recent times, we have witnessed the rising demand for SUVs among first-time car buyers in India. Due to the rising economy, customers are now ready to shed extra to drive home a new SUV instead of a hatchback. In fact, reports reveal that one third of first time car buyers in India now opt for SUVs. The compact SUVs are a hot favorite among 1st time car buyers, as these models are now designed and developed to suit city driving. In the next 1 year, a total of 5 new cars in the compact SUV segment will be launched in the country. 

Upcoming Small SUVs

Tata Punch Facelift

The first model in our list of upcoming small SUVs in India is the Tata Punch facelift, which has already been caught testing on the Indian roads. The new model is expected to be launched sometime in the first half of 2025. It will share styling cues and interior with the new Punch EV. The new model will have split headlamp setup and Nexon-like bumper and bonnet line. 

Inside the cabin, the Punch facelift is likely to come with several new features. The cabin will have similarities with the Punch EV, and is likely to feature a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment unit with wireless connectivity features and an updated instrument console. It is likely to be powered by a 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder, naturally-aspirated petrol engine that produces 86hp and 113Nm of torque. It will also receive a CNG version where it produces 73.4hp and 103Nm. Transmission choices will include a 5-speed manual and an AMT.

Nissan Magnite Facelift

The next model in our list of upcoming small SUVs is the Magnite facelift, which is expected to be launched by the end of this year or in the first quarter of 2025. The Magnite has been one of the most affordable SUVs in its category, making it a good choice among the first time car buyers. The updated model will receive design changes and an upgraded cabin along with more features. It will have a new front design, new alloys and updated bumpers. The SUV will receive an electric sunroof, 6 airbags, hill start assist, ESC, traction control, and an updated infotainment unit. Nissan engineers are likely to tune the engines (1.0L 3-cylinder naturally-aspirated & turbocharged) to extract more power and torque. 

Kia Clavis

The Korean automaker will launch an all-new compact SUV, which will be positioned between the Sonet and the Seltos. Rumoured to be called the Kia Clavis, the new SUV is scheduled to be launched in early 2025. It will be marketed as a lifestyle SUV and will come with a boxy & rugged styling. The small SUV will be offered with both ICE and electric powertrain options. The ICE version is expected to receive a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine that produces 118bhp and 172Nm of torque. The electric version is rumoured to be called the Kia EV2 and is expected to offer a range of up to 400km on a single charge. It will be equipped with several segment-leading features like a panoramic sunroof, front parking sensors, advanced driver assistance system, ventilated front seats and others. 

Skoda Compact SUV

Skoda has officially announced that it will enter the crowded sub-4 meter SUV category in the first quarter of 2024. This Skoda compact SUV will rival the likes of the Maruti Brezza, Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet and the Mahindra XUV300. It is likely to make its global debut at the 2025 BHarat Mobility Show, which is scheduled to happen in January. The small SUV is also likely to be exported to select international markets including South America, Africa and South-East Asia. It will be based on the VW Group's MQB AO IN platform, which underpins the Kushaq and the Slavia.

It will ride on a 2,566mm wheelbase, which is 85mm shorter than the Kushaq's wheelbase. The small SUV will be powered by a 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine that produces 115bhp and 178Nm of torque. Transmission choices will include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque convertor automatic.

Maruti Suzuki Fronx Facelift

Maruti Suzuki will introduce the facelifted version of the Fronx crossover in 2025. The new model will receive subtle design changes and an upgraded interior. The big change will come in the form of a new powertrain option. It is likely to be equipped with the Maruti's hybrid system, which is expected to be significantly cheaper than Toyota's series-parallel hybrid tech.

It is most likely to be powered by a new 1.2-litre 3-cylinder engine, which will debut in the new Swift. This engine will be benefited with the brand's new hybrid tech. The hybrid system will include a 1.2L engine (which will work as a generator), an electric motor and a battery pack with a capacity of 1.5kWh to 2kWh.

FAQ

Which is the most selling small SUV?

In the last financial year (FY24), Tata Nexon was the top-selling small SUV in the Indian market. The Punch micro SUV was the second-best selling model, followed by Maruti Suzuki Brezza. 

What is the most reliable small SUV of all time?

Maruti Suzuki Brezza is the most reliable small SUV on sale in the Indian market. Since its launch, the small SUV was known for low maintenance cost and its reliability. 

Also See - Top 4 Upcoming Coupe SUVs In India