The SUV segment will see the entry of several new models in 2024. Here are five models you should watch out.
We have already seen the 2024 Hyundai Creta facelift and the 2024 Kia Sonet facelift being launched in India this year. In the coming few months, several new sport utility vehicles (SUVs) will make their entry into the market. Among them, the Hyundai Creta N-Line, 2024 Hyundai Alcazar facelift, Tata Curvv, Mahindra Thar 5-door and the 2024 Mahindra XUV300 facelift are the five models you need to keep an eye on.
Hyundai Creta N-Line
The Creta N-Line will be launched in India on March 11. Being Hyundai's third N-Line model after the i20 N-Line and the Venue N-Line, the Creta N-Line will employ a 1.5-litre Kappa Turbo GDi petrol engine (160PS and 253Nm) with 6-speed MT and 7-speed DCT choices.
In terms of design, the Creta N-Line is not exactly similar to the standard Creta. There are changes to the exterior, with tweaked bumpers, new grille and alloy wheels being the major differentiating elements as well as red accents on all sides. Inside the cabin, there is an N-Line focussed steering wheel and gear lever. Also available are metal pedals.
Hyundai launched the 6/7-seater Alcazar in 2021. This would be the first mid-life update for the SUV, which competes with the likes of the Tata Safari and the Mahindra XUV700.
We expect the Alcazar facelift to sport a similar kind of design language as the Creta facelift. There can be the addition of ADAS as well. In terms of engine options, the SUV will continue with the 1.5-litre turbo petrol (6MT and 7DCT) and 1.5-litre diesel (6MT and 6AT) units.
Tata Curvv
The Tata Curvv is among the most eagerly-awaited SUVs of 2024. It will enter the highly competitive mid-size SUV segment, which already boasts some formidable names like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara.
With models like the Punch, Nexon, Harier and Safari in its portfolio, Tata Motors has become a strong SUV brand. We are expecting the Curvv to strengthen it further. Also, the Curvv will be available in both internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric vehicle (EV) versions.
2024 Mahindra XUV300 facelift
Mahindra & Mahindra is gearing up to launch the XUV300 facelift in India. The updated model will come with major exterior and interior changes. There will be a completely redesigned front and rear with the addition of new features inside the cabin. This was necessary, keeping in mind that the XUV300 had started looking dated.
We expect the XUV300 facelift to continue with the 1.2-litre turbo charged multipoint fuel injection (TCMPFI) petrol, 1.2-litre mStallion turbo-charged intercooled gasoline direct injection (TGDi) petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engine options, with 6MT and 6AMT choices.
2024 Mahindra Thar 5-door
The Mahindra Thar 5-door will be launched in India in the middle of 2024. The SUV is being extensively tested in India. It will get updates like LED headlamps with LED DRLs and newly designed alloy wheels. We are also expecting new instrument cluster, an advanced infotainment system and an electric sunroof.
The Mahindra Thar 5-door will rival the Maruti Suzuki Jimny and the upcoming Force Gurkha 5-door.
By Kuldeep
