As we step into the new year the automotive industry is set to witness the launch of five new SUVs ranging from mid-lifecycle updates to top-tier models. From the luxurious Mercedes GLS facelift to updates for Mahindra XUV300 and Kia Sonet, and the eagerly awaited Hyundai Creta facelift, here's a closer look at the upcoming launches scheduled for this month.
1. Mercedes-Benz GLS Facelift
- Date: January 8
- The refreshed GLS SUV boasts exterior enhancements, including a redesigned grille, new front bumper, and updated tail-lamps. The major upgrades come inside, featuring the advanced MBUX infotainment system, glossy brown lime wood trim, a low-speed 360-degree camera, and new upholstery options. The SUV retains the 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, coupled with a 9-speed automatic gearbox and the 4Matic AWD system.
2. Hyundai Creta Facelift
- Date: January 16
- The India-spec Creta facelift promises a comprehensive transformation both in design and features. Inspired by Hyundai’s global flagship, the Palisade, it showcases a redesigned grille, new projector headlamps, and horizontal LED Daytime Running Lamps. Interior updates include styling tweaks and significant additions to the equipment list, such as ADAS, a 360-degree camera, and an updated 10.25-inch infotainment. The lineup welcomes the 160hp, 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine along with other engine options.
3. Kia Sonet Facelift
- Date: Mid-January
- Already open for bookings, the Sonet facelift maintains its three engine options while reintroducing the diesel-manual version. Enhanced to compete with other compact SUVs, it features Level 1 ADAS, a new 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and various interior and exterior updates. Anticipate a price increase compared to the outgoing model.
4. Mahindra XUV300 Facelift
- Date: Late-January
- The extensively redesigned XUV300 showcases a new front and rear-end with LED daytime running lamps and connected LED light bars. Interior upgrades include a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, with a possibility of a panoramic sunroof. Engine options remain the same, with the 1.2-litre turbo-petrol also offering a new Aisin-sourced 6-speed automatic alongside the manual.
5. Mahindra XUV400 EV Facelift
- Date: Late-January
- The XUV400 EV facelift brings significant updates to the electric SUV's cabin, featuring a larger 10.25-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, a new digital instrument cluster, and dual-zone climate control. While exterior changes are expected to be minimal, the model remains mechanically unchanged.
Stay tuned for an exciting month of SUV launches, offering a diverse range of choices for automotive enthusiasts.