India's 2 Popular Micro SUVs Soon Get An Update

Micro SUVs are gaining popularity among Indian car buyers due to their affordability, practicality, and spaciousness compared to entry-level sedans and hatchbacks. Currently, three major mini SUVs are available – Tata Punch, Hyundai Exter, and Maruti Suzuki Fronx. While the Punch recently received its first facelift, the Fronx and Exter are set to adopt strong hybrid and electric versions, respectively. The 2025 Maruti Fronx facelift will be the brand’s first model to debut with Maruti Suzuki’s new strong hybrid system.

Fronx Facelift

Codenamed HEV, Maruti Suzuki’s strong hybrid powertrain will also be introduced on other mass-market models, including the Baleno, Swift, a small MPV, and the Brezza. It will be a series hybrid powertrain that’s significantly more affordable to produce than parallel hybrid and series-parallel hybrid technology. With the update, the new Fronx will feature the 1.2L, 3-cylinder Z12E petrol engine paired with the new strong hybrid system. Some interior and exterior changes are also expected.

Exter EV/Inster EV

The Hyundai Exter EV is slated for launch early next year. Compared to its ICE version, the electric iteration of the micro SUV will include EV-specific design elements such as a closed-off grille, ‘EV’ badging, and a recalibrated instrument cluster showing EV-specific information. Powertrain details are not available at this time, but the Exter EV will be Hyundai's most affordable and smallest electric offering in India.

The forthcoming Hyundai Inster EV is expected to be a more premium offering than the Exter EV. It is likely to be available in both Standard and Long Range variants, featuring 42kWh and 49kWh battery options, respectively. Both variants will have front axle-mounted electric motors. The Standard variant will produce 97PS, while the Long Range model will deliver 115PS, with both offering 147Nm of torque.

Also See - Maruti eVX Production Model To Revealed On 4th November