Are you on the lookout for a new car? Here is a list of vehicles all set to be introduced next month.
Continuing through the launch season, Indian car manufacturers are expected to introduce a number of models in April 2022. During the next 30 days, we can witness the launch of diverse offerings from OEMs, including SUVs, MPVs and sedans. Just three months into the new year, we have already seen the release of more than 20 new products, and now in April, we expect the launch of Maruti Suzuki Ertiga Facelift, Maruti Suzuki XL6 Facelift, Tata Nexon EV Long Range and the Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo Edition. Read along to understand what the new models will have to offer in their latest iteration.
1. Nexon EV Long Range
Expanding its EV portfolio, Tata Motors is expected to launch the long-range variant of its most successful EV, the Nexon EV, on April 6th. The new model of the SUV will remain constant to look at but will feature significant mechanical changes that include a bigger 40 kWh battery and a faster 6.6 kW charger that will help bring down charging time. The larger battery will provide the electric SUV with a significant increase in range from 312 km to 400 plus under standard test conditions. Further, Tata Motors has worked around making changes to the floor and the boot of the Nexon EV to accommodate the larger batteries. The increase in battery size has increased the overall weight of the electric vehicle by 100 kgs forcing the Indian automaker to provide disc brakes at all four corners for stopping this bulky SUV. Other changes to it will include selectable regeneration modes, an electronic stability programme (ESP) and a more aerodynamic alloy wheel design. The Nexon EV long-range model will be sold alongside the standard variant.
2. Maruti Suzuki Ertiga Facelift / Maruti Suzuki XL6 Facelift
Following hot on the heels of the Baleno Facelift launch, Maruti Suzuki is expected to give a yearly update to its popular MPVs, the Ertiga and the XL6. A minor update will see the MPVs receive a new front grille, new alloy wheel design and a new gearbox option. In addition, 2022 Maruti Ertiga Facelift will receive a black strip along the top of the boot, bringing it close to the XL6 in terms of design. On the inside, both these vehicles are expected to continue with the same dashboard layout as the current model, but a new interior colour scheme similar to the new Baleno may be in the works. Maruti Suzuki will carry forward features like air-cooled cup holders, a flat-bottom steering wheel with audio controls, electrically adjustable and foldable ORVMs and a reverse camera on the MPVs. With the update, a larger 9-inch Smart play infotainment screen may also make its way into both the models. Under the hood, they are expected to carry on with the 1.5-litre K15B petrol engine featuring smart hybrid technology. The four-wheelers will continue to be equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission, but the 4-speed automatic might make way for a more efficient 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox, a first for any Indian model. Thus, the 6-speed automatic stick will help Maruti Suzuki comply with the CAFÉ-2 norms by reducing carbon emissions and increasing fuel efficiency.
3. Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo
Skoda Auto India is expected to add a new top of the line trim to its most successful SUV, the Kushaq, in the form of the Monte Carlo Edition. Like the various Monte Carlo models seen in the international market, the Kushaq Monte Carlo will feature gloss black elements in place of chrome. The black treatment will be visible on the front grille, roof, roof rails, ORVM and badges. It will also continue to the inside with an all-black cabin and the black seat covers with red highlights. Monte Carlo will be inscribed on the headrests.
This Edition is also expected to receive an updated alloy wheel design making it sportier from the outside.
Based on the top-of-the-line Style variant, the Kushaq Monte Carlo will feature additional equipment like the 8-inch digital instrument cluster borrowed from the Slavia. Skoda is expected to launch the Monte Carlo variant with only the 1.5-litre engine in manual and automatic guise. The new variant is expected to cost Rs 50,000 to Rs 60,000 more than the Style trim of the Kushaq.
