KATHMANDU: Five new SUVs are set to hit the Indian market during the upcoming festive season.
Targeting major festivals such as Navaratri, Diwali and New Year, automobile companies are preparing to roll out new and updated models.
Since car sales typically surge during the festive season in India, automakers have been launching their fresh offerings during this period to attract festive buyers.
Leading automobile brands in India, such as Tata Motors, Hyundai and Mahindra, have all announced their festive launches. MeroAuto takes a look at some of these SUVs:
1. New-Generation Hyundai Venue
Hyundai Motor India is launching the new-generation Venue on October 24. The SUV features significant upgrades in overall design and cabin features, drawing styling cues from larger Hyundai SUVs such as the Creta and Alcazar. According to Indian media reports, the new-generation Venue will also be the first in its segment to feature a Level 2 ADAS system. The SUV, however, will retain the engines and transmission from the previous generation.
2. Tata Sierra
Tata Sierra is making a comeback in November, nearly two decades after it was discontinued. Tata is offering the new-generation Sierra with petrol, diesel, and electric powertrains. A pre-production model of Sierra was showcased earlier this year at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo.
3. Mahindra Thar Facelift
Mahindra’s iconic three-door lifestyle SUV, the Thar off-roader, is set for a facelift in October. The updated model gets refreshed styling, new upholstery and additional cabin features, according to Indian media reports. It will come with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, and a 10.25-inch driver display. Engine options will remain the same: a 2.0-liter turbo-petrol and 1.5- and 2.2-liter diesel variants.
4. Tata Harrier and Safari (Petrol Variants)
Tata Motors is introducing petrol-powered versions of its Harrier and Safari SUVs on October 25. Previously offered only with diesel engines, the new variants will be powered by a 1.5-liter turbo GDI petrol engine, delivering 166 hp and 280 Nm of torque. Both SUVs will be available with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed torque-converter automatic transmission. The petrol variants are expected to be priced lower than their diesel counterparts.
5. Tata Punch Facelift
Tata Motors will also launch a facelift of its micro-SUV, the Punch, later this year. According to the company, the refreshed model will feature updated styling and new features. Its exterior closely resembles the recently introduced Punch EV. Inside, upgrades include a two-spoke steering wheel, six airbags and an eight-speaker music system.
Since these automobile brands have a strong presence in the Nepali market, most of these SUVs are expected to arrive in Nepal by the New Year.
