The mid-size SUV segment has been dominated by the Hyundai Creta ever since its arrival in the market. The model is currently in its second generation and recently received a significant update in terms of design, features, and mechanism. However, the competition is going to be fiercer for the Creta with the launch of new products planned under Tata, Mahindra, and Renault’s stables.
Tata has confirmed the Curvv coupe SUV launch for mid-2024, which will initially be introduced with an electric powertrain. Its ICE version (petrol and diesel) will hit showrooms during this year’s festive season. The SUV will come with the 1.2L, 3-cylinder turbo petrol and 1.5L, 4-cylinder turbo diesel engines, and two gearbox options – 6-speed manual and 7-speed DCT.
Mahindra is reportedly working on a mid-size SUV (codenamed S301) expected to launch in 2025. As of now, details are scanty, though the new Mahindra SUV is likely to share its underpinning and engines with the XUV300.
Renault recently revealed its plan to bring in the new-generation Duster in India with a hybrid powertrain and 4X4 setup. This time around, the SUV will come with some advanced features such as a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless phone charger, automatic AC unit, 6-speaker Arkamys 3D sound system, and more. The biggest highlight of the new Duster will be the ADAS (advanced driver assistance system) tech, enhancing its safety quotient.
Talking about other entrants, Nissan will also foray into the mid-size SUV segment with a new model based on the next-gen Renault Duster. Both SUVs will share a platform, features, and powertrain. However, the design and styling would be slightly different. Jeep, the American SUV maker, is reported to introduce the Avenger mid-size SUV to challenge the dominance of the Hyundai Creta. It’s important to note that there is no official word on its India launch at this point in time.
