The Indian automotive market has been witnessing a high demand for SUVs over the past three years. As a result, OEMs are expanding their SUV model lineups across different price ranges. In the next 2-3 years, there will be at least 7 to 8 new product launches in the premium three-row SUV segment from Tata, Mahindra, Kia, Skoda, and Volkswagen.
Mahindra has confirmed the launch of the XUV.e8 concept-based electric SUV for December 2024. It will be the first EV offering based on the brand’s new born-electric INGLO platform. The EV is likely to be offered with battery pack options up to 80kWh, delivering power between 230bhp and over 350bhp. Mahindra has previously revealed that its upcoming XUV.e8 electric SUV will come with an AWD (all-wheel drive) system.
The Tata Safari EV and Safari petrol are among the much-awaited upcoming premium 7-seater SUVs, which are likely to arrive in 2025. The electric iteration of the SUV will underpin Tata’s new Acti.ev platform, which will also be used in the upcoming Harrier EV. Reports suggest that the SUV might offer a range of around 500km. A few EV-specific changes will be made inside and out, while its original design, interior layout, and features will remain intact.
Toyota has planned two new premium 7-seater SUVs for India – the Corolla Cross-based three-row SUV and the new-generation Fortuner. The Toyota Corolla Cross three-row version is reported to go on sale by early 2026. It’s likely to be offered with the Fortuner’s 2.0L petrol and Innova Hycross’ strong hybrid petrol powertrain options. The all-new Fortuner is expected to make its global debut towards the end of 2024, with a launch likely in early 2025. This time, the SUV will witness significant design changes and feature upgrades along with a hybrid powertrain.
The Kia EV9 will be introduced in India as part of the brand’s new transformation strategy – Kia 2.0. It’s Kia’s flagship and largest electric SUV in global markets. The EV is offered with the 76.1kWh battery, RWD, and 99.9kWh battery, RWD setup, along with the AWD and two electric motor options. In India, the EV9 will come as a fully imported unit and is expected to cost around Rs 1 crore.
Skoda’s new-generation Kodiaq and Volkswagen’s Tayron premium 7-seater SUVs are planned for 2025. The all-new Kodiaq will come with improved styling and a set of new features while retaining the existing 190bhp, 2.0L turbo petrol engine with a 7-speed DCT gearbox. The Volkswagen Tayron will come as a spiritual successor to the Tiguan AllSpace and will be assembled locally via CKD kits.
