6 New 4x4 SUVs Coming to India

India's off-road SUV market is set to get several new options, with six rugged SUVs expected to launch over the next two years. From Tata Motors and Mahindra to Toyota and JSW Motors, both Indian and international brands are preparing models with four-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive capability.

The growing interest in adventure travel and destinations such as Ladakh, Spiti Valley, Uttarakhand and the Northeast has increased demand for SUVs that can handle rough terrain. Automakers are now looking to tap into this trend with new petrol, hybrid and electric off-road models.

JSW Motors' first SUV to launch soon

JSW Motors is expected to launch its first model in India by October 2026. The SUV will reportedly be a rebadged version of Chery's Jetour Traveler C-DM and will compete with models such as the Toyota Fortuner. The SUV is expected to use a plug-in hybrid powertrain combining a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with three electric motors.

The petrol engine is expected to produce 154hp and 220Nm, while the combined output from the electric motors could reach around 456hp and 700Nm. A 43.24kWh LFP battery pack could provide an electric range of around 200km. The SUV is expected to arrive in India through imported knocked-down kits, with final assembly taking place at JSW Motors' facility in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, Maharashtra.

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New Mahindra Thar coming this year

Mahindra is also preparing an update for the Thar, which is expected to arrive later this year. The updated Thar will get styling changes inspired by the larger Thar Roxx. The front could feature LED headlamps with C-shaped DRLs and a new six-slot grille.

The cabin is also expected to receive new features aimed at improving everyday comfort. These could include ventilated front seats, passive keyless entry, push-button start and a wireless smartphone charger. The mechanical package is expected to remain largely familiar, keeping the Thar's focus on off-road capability.

Tata Safari EV to get AWD

Tata Motors is preparing an all-wheel-drive version of the Safari EV, which is expected to arrive in the fourth quarter of 2026. The AWD setup will use two electric motors to improve traction. The additional motor will provide extra power when required, especially when driving on loose or difficult surfaces. This could make the Safari EV one of the more practical electric SUVs for buyers looking for an EV that can also handle light off-road use.

Tata Sierra AWD coming next year

Tata Motors is also expected to introduce a mechanical AWD version of the ICE Sierra in early 2027. The Sierra AWD should have better off-road capability thanks to improved approach, break-over and departure angles. Its lower weight could also help when driving on difficult terrain. The Sierra will add another option for buyers looking for a more rugged SUV without moving into the larger and more expensive off-road SUV segment.

JSW Motors could launch an electric off-roader

JSW Motors could add another SUV to its line-up in mid-2027. This model is expected to be a rebadged version of Chery's iCar V23. The retro-style electric SUV could be offered with a dual-motor AWD setup and would potentially compete with upcoming electric SUVs such as the Tata Sierra EV.

The dual-motor version could produce a combined 208hp and 292Nm. Power could come from an 81.76kWh NMC battery pack, with a claimed range expected to be around 425-450km. Like the Jetour-based SUV, the iCar V23-based model could be assembled in India from imported knocked-down kits.

New Toyota Fortuner coming in 2027

The third-generation Toyota Fortuner is also expected to arrive in India around mid-2027. The new SUV is expected to get a sharper exterior and a more premium cabin inspired by the latest Toyota Hilux. One important technology change could be the use of electric power steering, which would allow Toyota to add more advanced driver assistance features and improve low-speed manoeuvrability.

The new Fortuner could also feature a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, panoramic sunroof and electronic parking brake with auto-hold. The existing engines, transmissions and four-wheel-drive system are expected to continue, although India-specific specifications will be confirmed closer to launch.

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