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Maruti Suzuki & Hyundai To Introduce New Affordable SUVs
The leading car manufacturers in India, Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai, are gearing up to introduce new SUVs in the affordable segment soon. This decision follows the impressive sales performance of the Tata Punch, prompting these companies to expand their offerings in this marketMaruti Suzuki is set to launch a micro-SUV in 2026.
This new vehicle will be positioned below the Brezza in their lineup. Currently, the S-Presso and Ignis serve the micro-SUV segment, but Maruti aims to introduce a more robust SUV. Expected to measure under 4 meters, it will feature high ground clearance and a commanding driving position.
Maruti Suzuki Micro SUV
The design of this upcoming micro-SUV is anticipated to resemble the Grand Vitara and Fronx. Inside, it will offer modern features like a large touchscreen infotainment system, flat-bottom steering wheel, six airbags, heads-up display, automatic HVAC, and push-button start/stop.
The vehicle is likely to be powered by a new 1.2-litre Z-Series mild-hybrid petrol engine with both manual and automatic gearbox options. Pricing will be crucial for its success. Maruti Suzuki aims to price it competitively against its rivals but expects only a slight undercut.
Hyundai Inster EV
Hyundai's new offering in this segment is the Inster EV. It will maintain the quirky and youthful look of the Exter with modern-retro styling. The front design will largely remain unchanged except for some new elements and a closed-off grille. The charging port is expected to be located below the Hyundai logo on the nose.
The side profile will feature chunky wheel arches housing newly designed alloy wheels with aero elements typical of EVs. At the rear, an attached roof spoiler with a high-mounted stop lamp and a gloss-black bar connecting the taillights will house the Hyundai logo at the centre.
Inside, it will be an upgrade over the Exter but retain a similar overall design. Features may include a larger 10.25-inch infotainment screen, digital instrument cluster of the same size, auto climate control, wireless charger, multi-functional steering wheel, ventilated front seats, 360-degree surround camera, and ambient lighting.
Regarding powertrain specifications, the Inster EV might come with two battery pack options: 42kWh and 49kWh units. Both versions will have a single motor setup producing 95bhp for the standard version and 113bhp for the long-range version with 147Nm of torque as standard. The maximum driving range is claimed to be up to 355km.
DriveSpark Thinks
These upcoming models from Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai reflect their strategy to capture more market share in India's growing affordable SUV segment by offering innovative features and competitive pricing.
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