5 Upcoming Compact SUVs From Renault, Mahindra, Tata, VW and Kia

Car buyers in India are now looking at small SUVs instead of hatchbacks and sedans as their first car. This is evident from the massive sales of Tata Nexon, Maruti Brezza and other models in the sub-4 meter SUV space. In a bid to tap this growing segment, car manufacturers, including Renault, Mahindra, Tata, Kia and Volkswagen are planning to launch their respective compact SUVs in our market by 2027. Here is a list of top 5 upcoming compact SUVs in our market before the end of 2027 - 

Renault Bridger

The Bridger is Renault’s next big launch for the Indian market. Built on the heavily localised RGMP (Renault’s Global Modular Platform), the new compact SUV will sit between the Kiger and Duster in Renault India’s line-up. It will be a rugged-looking SUV with boxy shape, and features Renault’s latest design elements such as Y-shaped LED signatures and flared wheel arches. Adding to it, the tailgate mounted spare wheel, flat roof and smoother surfaces adds to its rugged character. 

The new Renault Bridger will debut the brand’s new 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system. Adding to it, the small SUV could get a CNG and a strong hybrid powertrain. Its electric version is also under development, which is likely to arrive at a later date. Renault has confirmed that the Bridger will be launched in 2027. 

Mahindra Vision S

Mahindra will introduce the production version of the Vision S concept in the country in early 2027. Testing of the SUV  with production-ready body panels has already been commenced, and it looks similar to the concept. It is rumoured to be the smallest member of the Scorpio family, and carries strong road presence and rugged DNA of the Scorpio. The SUV has a high ground clearance, chunky wheel arches and a tailgate mounted spare wheel, which give it an aggressive look. 

It will come with modern tech and features such as flush-fitting door handles, dual screens, panoramic sunroof, LEVEL 2 ADAS, 360-degree camera, ventilated front seats and others. It is based on the brand’s new NU_IQ platform, which is compatible with different powertrains, including hybrid, EV and ICE. The SUV is expected to borrow the high performance engines from the XUV 3XO, including a 130hp, 1.2L TGDi petrol and a 117hp, 1.5L diesel. A hybrid and an electric version could join the line-up in future. 

Next-gen Tata Nexon

Tata Motors will launch two sub-4 meter SUVs, the next-gen Nexon and Scarlet (mini Sierra) in the country by 2028. Internally codenamed ‘Garud’, the next-gen Tata Nexon is expected to be launched in the Indian market in 2027. It is reportedly to be based on the existing X1 platform, which is likely to receive massive structural changes. The SUV’s design and interior will be significantly upgraded in line with new Tata models. 

The next-generation Tata Nexon is expected to be offered with petrol and CNG powertrains. It is early to comment whether the SUV will get a diesel engine or not. The petrol version will continue to be offered with a 1.2L turbo petrol engine with manual and automatic gearbox options. Not just the ICE, the new Nexon EV will also receive a significant upgrade.

Volkswagen compact SUV

Seeing the success of the Skoda Kylaq, Volkswagen is also planning to launch an all-new compact SUV in our market by mid-2027. The new model could be the re-badged version of the Kylaq. It is expected to receive a new grille, new lighting system, bumpers and a revised tailgate. Volkswagen could also introduce the GT Line trims with blacked-out exterior parts. It will be powered by the same 1.0L 3-cylinder, turbocharged petrol engine paired to either a 6-speed manual and a n 8-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox. 

Next-gen Kia Sonet

Codenamed QY2E, the next-gen Kia Sonet will be launched in the Indian market in 2027. It will come with an all-new design and new cabin layout with a longer list of features. It will be based on the new K1 platform that underpins the Kia Syros. The new Sonet will ride on a longer wheelbase, and offer a bigger boot space and improved legroom and headroom in the second-row. 

The next Sonet is likely to retain its existing engine options, including an 83hp, 1.2L NA petrol, a 120hp, 1.0L turbo petrol and a 116hp, 1.5L turbo diesel. It is reported that the new SUV could also get a strong hybrid engine, which is currently under development. The SUV is likely to get a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment and digital driver’s display, and LEVEL2 ADAS tech. 

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