Compact SUVs To Flood India in 2012

Published: Monday, January 16, 2012, 15:30 [IST]

The compact SUV is the new in thing in the Indian auto market. While the auto scene in India was dominated by small cars in the 90s and premium hatchbacks in the first decade of the21st century, the year 2012 appears to be the year of the compact SUV.

Compact SUVs are a result of extensive market studies by carmakers. They believe the youth will be the greatest drivers in the market and the Compact SUV is their most preferred vehicle. The compact SUV offers the driveabilty of an SUV, space of a sedan and a fuel economy of a hatchback.

All major carmakers are planning to launch compact SUVs that are powerful, fun to drive, comfortable and yet affordable. While Ford has had a head start by unveiling the new Eco Sport, Tata Motors has unveiled the revamped Safari Storm.

Maruti Suzuki, India's small car specialist has announced its inclinations towards compact SUVs by unveiling the XA Alpha concept. The XA Alpha made its debut at the 2012 Delhi Auto Expo. Another compact SUV that was seen for the first time in the country is the Renault Duster. Another Compact SUV that could be launched in 2012 is the Mini Xylo.

Click on Next to have a look at the four new Compact SUVs that are expected to be launched in India in 2012.