Renault Bridger, Tata Scarlet & Mahindra Vision S - 3 New Upcoming Compact SUVs

The compact SUV segment currently has soft-roaders; however, things are moving towards rugged SUVs. With the Renault Bridger, Tata Scarlet and Mahindra Vision, the auto makers are preparing to launch vehicles prioritising high ground clearance, rugged design and go-anywhere character. 

Mahindra Vision S

Mahindra had showcased the Vision S concept last year, and its production-ready model is being planned to be launched in the first quarter of 2027. Testing of the new Vision S concept based SUV has already been started. This SUV will be marketed as a lifestyle SUV with high ground clearance. It has a clamshell bonnet with an upright stance, circular-shaped headlamps, large scuff plate in the front bumper, carved out cladding, squared-off wheel arches, large glass areas, a tailgate mounted spare wheel, and fenders-mounted tail-lights. 

The Mahindra Vision S will also mark the debut of brand’s new NU.IQ modular platform, which is compatible with CE, hybrid and EV powertrains. It is likely to be the smallest member of the Scorpio-family, which will get the brand’s new design language. It gets a dual digital screens separated from each other by an AC vent. It will be equipped with features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, automatic AC, panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, electrically adjustable driver’s seat, LEVEL-2 ADAS, a 360-degree surround view camera and others. It will be offered with petrol and diesel engine options along with an hybrid powertrain in future. 

Renault Bridger

The new mini Duster is scheduled to be launched in the Indian market in 2027. It will be positioned between the Kiger and the new Renault Duster. It will be designed and developed in India for domestic as well as international markets. It will be based on Renault’s new Global Modular Platform, which also underpins the Duster. The SUV has a boxy shape with an upright stance, carved-out cladding, large glass areas, squared-off wheel arches and a flat nose. It comes with a flat grille with an illuminated Renault lettering, new squared-off headlamps with unique LED DRLs, and a striking bumper that houses a skid plate and mesh pattern for air intakes.

There is a tailgate mounted spare wheel and vertically stacked tail-lamps and an upright tailgate. It is claimed to offer the segment-best knee-room and boot space. The new Renault Bridger concept will offer a boost space of around 400-litres, which will be the largest in the segment. The SUV will be offered with turbo petrol and hybrid powertrains. 

Tata Scarlet

Tata Motors is working on an all-new compact SUV, internally codenamed Scarlet, which will join the Nexon line-up. It will be marketed as a lifestyle SUV, but the Scarlet will be a front-wheel-drive model. The SUV is likely to share its styling with the soon-to-be-launched Tata Sierra. This model will come as an alternative to the likes of the Mahindra Thar 3-door, Maruti Jimny and the upcoming Baby Mahindra Scorpio. 

The new model is likely to carry a boxy and upright design, with a bold and upfront front fascia that adds to its rugged and urban-ready appeal. It is expected to come with several high-end features such as a larger touchscreen infotainment unit, wireless connectivity, HUD, front and rear parking sensors, panoramic sunroof, LEVEL 2 ADAS and others. It is expected to get a 1.2L direct injection turbo petrol engine that produces 123bhp of power, and paired to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic. Additionally, the SUV is expected to get a 1.5L NA petrol engine that powers the Sierra.