2023 was an action-packed year, with the arrival of new SUVs like the Honda Elevate and the facelifted versions of the Tata Nexon and Harrier. Now, as 2024 is around the corner, we are going to see even more new SUVs from Mahindra, Tata, Maruti, and Hyundai, both internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric (EV) models.
1. Kia Sonet Facelift: Evolution in Subcompact Luxury
The eagerly awaited Kia Sonet facelift is slated for an early 2024 launch, bringing with it refreshed exteriors and a host of new features, including level 1 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). While maintaining the same engine options, the highlight is the reintroduction of the diesel-manual combination. Kia is already accepting reservations, with deliveries set to commence from January 2024.
2. Hyundai Creta Facelift: Redefining Compact SUV Sophistication
Another major player in the SUV segment, the Hyundai Creta, is gearing up for a facelift in January 2024. This includes a 1.5-litre petrol engine, a 1.5-litre diesel, and the segment's most powerful 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine.
3. Maruti eVX: Maruti's Leap into Electric Terrain
Maruti is set to make a significant stride into the electric vehicle (EV) market with the eVX, expected to launch in late 2024. Unveiled as a concept at the 2023 Auto Expo, the eVX boasts a 60 kWh battery pack, dual-motor All-Wheel Drive (AWD) option, and an impressive range of up to 550 km. Currently undergoing testing in India, this marks Maruti's foray into the world of electric mobility.
4. Tata Punch EV: Expanding Tata's EV Lineup
Scheduled for an early 2024 launch, the Tata Punch EV is set to join the automaker's electric vehicle lineup. Positioned between the Tiago EV and Nexon EV, the Punch EV is expected to feature minor EV-specific design updates and offer variants with both Standard and Long Range, claiming a range of up to 500 km.
5. Tata Curvv / Curvv EV: Tata's Compact SUV Duo
With an expected mid-2024 launch for the Tata Curvv and a March 2024 launch for the Curvv EV, Tata is set to make a mark in the compact SUV space. The Curvv EV, in particular, is anticipated to offer a substantial range of up to 500 km, providing an eco-friendly and stylish alternative in the segment.
6. Tata Harrier EV: Electric Transformation of a Refined SUV
Late 2024 will witness the introduction of the all-electric Tata Harrier, a transformation of the popular SUV showcased as a concept at the 2023 Auto Expo. Carrying the design language of the updated Tata Harrier, the EV variant will feature specific electric elements and multiple powertrain options, offering a remarkable driving range of over 500 km.
7. Mahindra Thar 5-door: Expanding Off-Road Horizons
The second half of 2024 will see the launch of the Mahindra Thar 5-door, an extended version of the iconic off-roader. Engine options are expected to mirror those of the existing Thar.
8. Mahindra XUV300 Facelift: Enhanced Design and Features
Set for a March 2024 launch, the facelifted Mahindra XUV300 will mark the first significant update since its debut in 2019. Spotted in test mules, the updated XUV300 will boast a new fascia, revamped cabin, and premium features. Engine options, including the 1.2-litre MPFi, 1.2-litre T-GDi, and a 1.5-litre diesel, are likely to remain consistent.
9. Mahindra XUV.e8: A Paradigm Shift in Electric SUVs
Expected in December 2024, the Mahindra XUV.e8 is set to redefine electric SUVs. As the electric counterpart of the XUV700, it will be based on Mahindra's new INGLO platform. With a familiar exterior design and modernized interior, the XUV.e8 will offer an impressive range of up to 450 km and support DC fast charging up to 175 kW.
10. New-gen Renault Duster: A Resurrected Icon
The iconic Renault Duster is poised for a comeback in the second half of 2024. The new-gen Duster, based on the CMF-B platform, takes design inspiration from the Dacia Bigster. While powertrain details for the India-spec model are pending, the European version offers multiple engine options, including petrol, turbo-petrol, strong-hybrid, and LPG.
In Europe, the new-gen Duster comes with multiple powertrain options including petrol, turbo-petrol, strong-hybrid and LPG. The turbo-petrol engine also comes with the AWD system with a manual transmission. The specifications for the India-spec Renault Duster are yet to be confirmed, but do not hold out for any diesel option.