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In the dynamic landscape of the Indian automotive industry, the year 2023 witnessed a flurry of new launches across various segments, from sleek sedans to compact hatchbacks, robust SUVs, and versatile crossovers. Amidst this automotive extravaganza let us delve into our curated list of the top five standout vehicles that made a lasting impact on the Indian roads.
1. Hyundai Verna: A Marvel of Modern Sedan Engineering
March 2023 marked the arrival of the revamped Hyundai Verna, showcasing a stunning blend of aesthetic and technological enhancements and the latest iteration of this sedan underwent a significant metamorphosis not only in its exterior but also in the intricacies of its interior. With a starting ex-showroom price of Rs. 10.96 lakh, the Hyundai Verna is available in four distinct variants: EX, S, SX, and SX (O).
Under the hood, the Verna offers a choice between a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with a six-speed manual or CVT, generating a robust 113bhp and 144Nm, and a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with a six-speed manual or seven-speed DCT, delivering an impressive 158bhp and 253Nm. Notably, the model secured a full five-star safety rating in the GNCAP crash tests solidifying its commitment to passenger safety.
2. Maruti Suzuki Fronx: Bridging Elegance and Performance
April 2023 witnessed the introduction of the Maruti Suzuki Fronx, a captivating crossover based on the Baleno platform and this model swiftly gained popularity not only for its distinctive design but also for its stellar performance and feature-rich interior. Priced starting from Rs. 7.46 lakh (ex-showroom), the Fronx is available in five variants.
Powering the Fronx are diverse engine options, including a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with a choice of a five-speed manual, AMT, or a 1.2-litre petrol+CNG variant with a five-speed manual. The former produces 89bhp and 113Nm, while the latter delivers a spirited 76bhp and 98.5Nm. Maruti Suzuki celebrated a milestone with 75,000 unit sales last month, emphasizing the Fronx's widespread appeal. Anticipated BNCAP crash tests are expected to further attest to its safety credentials.
3. Kia Seltos: Facelifted Excellence in Mid-Size SUVs
July 2023 saw the unveiling of the facelifted Kia Seltos, reaffirming its status as one of the most sought-after mid-size SUVs in India. The refreshed Seltos boasted substantial upgrades including the Level 2 ADAS suite elevating its feature profile. Despite occasional price adjustments, the Seltos, with a starting price of Rs. 10.90 lakh (ex-showroom), continues to capture the market.
The Seltos offers a diverse powertrain lineup encompassing a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine with a six-speed manual or CVT, a 1.5-liter turbo-petrol engine with options for a six-speed iMT or seven-speed DCT, and a 1.5-liter diesel engine with choices of a six-speed iMT or six-speed torque converter. These engines deliver power outputs ranging from 113bhp to 158bhp catering to a spectrum of driving preferences.
4. Honda Elevate: Elevating Expectations in SUV Excellence
Honda Cars India made waves in the automotive scene with the launch of the much-anticipated Honda Elevate in 2023. Priced competitively starting from Rs. 11 lakh (ex-showroom), the Elevate boasts a spacious cabin, refined engine performance, and a suite of safety features that set it apart in its segment.
Under the hood, the Elevate is equipped with a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine coupled with a six-speed manual or CVT delivering a commendable 119bhp and 145Nm and the extensive safety features on the Elevate highlights Honda's dedication to safety and makes it an appealing option for discriminating SUV aficionados.
5. Hyundai Exter: Grand Success in the Compact SUV Arena
The Hyundai Exter emerged as a game-changer in the compact SUV segment garnering significant sales and accolades for the Korean automaker. Based on the Grand i10 Nios platform, the Exter is available across seven variants, with a starting ex-showroom price of Rs. 6.35 lakh.
Powering the Exter are options like a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with a five-speed manual or AMT, producing 82bhp and 114Nm, and a 1.2-litre petrol+CNG variant with a five-speed manual, delivering 68bhp and 95.2Nm. The Exter's recent achievement of reaching the one lakh booking milestone in India, coupled with winning the Indian Car of the Year award at the ICOTY 2024, attests to its widespread acclaim and success in the market.
Conclusion
India's automotive scene saw a notable upsurge in cutting-edge performance-oriented automobiles in 2023. Each of these top five picks brought something unique to the table whether in terms of design, features, safety, or overall driving experience contributing to the vibrant tapestry of the Indian automobile market and these automobiles serve as a tribute to the remarkable progress and continuous improvement of the nation's automotive sector as we look to the future.