The demand for SUVs in India is at an all-time high, which is why the passenger vehicle (PV) industry is registering record dispatches to dealers. However, there’s one segment that is seeing a constant decline—the small car/hatchback segment. Despite this, the industry is optimistic that sales of small cars will rebound in the next 2-3 years. Meanwhile, at least five new small family cars will be launched this year. Let’s take a closer look at the key details of the upcoming models.
Upcoming Small Family Cars
New-Gen Maruti Swift/Dzire
The new-generation Maruti Swift is set to hit showrooms on May 9, while the all-new Dzire is expected to arrive during the 2024 festive season. Both models will feature significant changes inside and out, along with Suzuki’s new 1.2L, 3-cylinder Z-Series petrol engine. This engine, with mild hybrid technology, delivers a maximum power of 81.6PS and 112Nm of torque. It has a fuel efficiency of 25.72kmpl, making it more efficient than the previous 1.2L, 4-cylinder K-Series engine. Transmission duties will be handled by the same 5-speed manual and AMT gearbox.
The new Swift and Dzire will feature a 9-inch SmartPlay Pro+ touchscreen infotainment system with an Arkamys sound system, Suzuki Connect, wireless phone charging, rear AC vents, A and C-Type USB ports, and LED fog lamps. The 2024 Maruti Swift and Dzire will likely be priced slightly higher than the current generation.
Tata Altroz Racer/Altroz Facelift
The Tata Altroz premium hatchback lineup will soon expand with the addition of the Racer Edition. This sportier version of the hatchback has been seen in two different dual-tone shades. It will feature twin racing stripes on the bonnet and roof, a more prominent front grille, “Racer” badging on the front fenders, and newly-designed 16-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the Altroz Racer might offer new leatherette upholstery with contrast stitching and “Racer” insignia embossed on the seats. The Tata Altroz Racer will be powered by a 1.2L, 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine producing 120bhp and 170Nm of torque. It will come with a 6-speed manual gearbox and a front-wheel-drive (FWD) setup.
The Altroz hatchback will also receive a mid-life update in the second half of 2024. Fresh spy images show that the updated version will have a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless smartphone connectivity, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless phone charging, ventilated front seats, an air purifier, and 6 airbags. The engine setup is likely to remain unchanged from the existing model, meaning the 2024 Tata Altroz facelift will use the same 1.2L naturally aspirated petrol and the 110bhp 1.2L turbo petrol engines. The lineup will also offer Tata’s twin-cylinder CNG technology.
Nissan Magnite Facelift
Nissan Magnite, the subcompact SUV from the Japanese automaker, is set to receive its first mid-life update this year. It’s one of the anticipated upcoming small family cars in India. Details of the facelifted version are not yet available, but the 2024 Nissan Magnite facelift is likely to include minor cosmetic changes and feature upgrades. The engine-gearbox combinations are expected to remain the same, with the 1.0L naturally aspirated petrol, 1.0L turbo petrol, and a CNG fuel option.
The updated Magnite might have new seat upholstery and an updated interior theme, while many features will likely carry over from the current model. The current Magnite offers an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, voice recognition control, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, a 360-degree camera, and a tire pressure monitoring system.
