KATHMANDU: Updated models of four compact SUVs are set to hit the Indian markets in the coming few months.
Leading Indian automakers Tata and Mahindra as well as Hyundai of South Korea and Renault of France are preparing to bring the updated models of their respective sub-four meter SUVs.
The sub-four-meter compact SUV segment is considered highly competitive in India. The entry of four new models in this crowded segment is certain to make the competition even more intense.
While Hyundai and Renault have already announced the the launch dates for their new offerings, the two other automakers are also expected to launch their new products shortly.
New-generation Hyundai Venue
Hyundai Motor India is launching the new-generation Hyundai Venue on October 24. Codenamed QU2i, the 2026 Venue looks similar to the current model. However, it is being positioned as a new generation model, not just a facelift, thanks to major exterior and interior redesigns.
According to Indian media reports, the SUV will feature 16-inch alloy wheels, sharp wing mirrors and a redesigned glass house. Connected LED taillamps are also expected in a new design.
Although interior details have not been revealed yet, the car is expected to have a completely new cabin. It is expected to have a larger touchscreen, a new dashboard, a redesigned center console, updated switchgear, a 360-degree camera, ventilated front seats and improved ADAS features.
While Hyundai and Renault have already announced the the launch dates for their new offerings, the two other automakers are also expected to launch their new products shortly.
The new Venue is expected to retain the three engines from the current model: a 120 hp 1.0L turbo unit, an 83 hp 1.2L naturally aspirated engine and a 100 hp 1.5L diesel engine.
Laxmi Intercontinental, the authorized Hyundai distributor in Nepal, assembles Venue in Nepal. The new model is expected to arrive in Nepal once it is launched in India.
Tata Punch Facelift
Tata Motors is preparing to give a makeover to its best-selling Punch SUV. Although the company has not announced an official date, it is expected that the car will be launched by the end of this year.
The facelift will feature a refreshed exterior similar to the Punch EV. As per Indian news reports, changes will include new alloy wheels and interior updates such as a new steering wheel, an improved dashboard, a larger 10.25-inch infotainment system and a fully digital instrument cluster.
The facelift model is expected to continue with the 1.2L petrol engine and will also have a CNG option.
Sipradi Trading, the authorized distributor of Tata Motors, has been selling Punch in both electric vehicle (EV) and petrol variants in Nepal. The facelift model is also expected to enter the Nepali market once it is launched in India.
Renault Kiger Facelift
Renault is also giving a facelift to its popular compact SUV, the Kiger. The car will be officially launched in India on August 24.
The new Kiger will get design changes both inside and out. It will feature updated headlights, bumpers, taillamps and stylish alloy wheels. Inside, minor updates will add more comfort and convenience, according to news reports.
The facelift will continue with the same 1.0L petrol and 1.0L turbo petrol engines. It will be available in both manual and automatic gearboxes.
Advanced Automobiles represents Renault in Nepal. The existing model of Kiger is already available in the Nepali market. The company plans to import the new model following its launch in India.
Mahindra XUV 3XO EV
Mahindra plans to launch the electric variant of its XUV 3XO SUV in India by the end of this year.
The SUV will directly compete with the Tata Nexon EV and the upcoming Kia Syros EV, according to media reports in India. It will also replace the XUV 400 EV in Mahindra’s lineup.
Although the new EV will share its design language with the ICE version, it will feature EV-specific styling changes. The interior will also get a refreshed look.
It is expected to come with the same 34.5 kWh and 39.4 kWh battery packs currently used in the XUV 400 EV. Mahindra claims that XUV 3XO EV will offer a driving range of nearly 400 km when fully charged.
Agni Incorporated, the authroized distributor of Mahindra in Nepal, is already selling the petrol version of the XUV 3XO in Nepal. The company is also expected to introduce the EV version in the local market.
