SUV in India

About SUV Cars

SUVs (Sports Utility Vehicles) are one of the most prevalent passenger vehicle segments in India. As the name suggests, SUVs are designed to handle different terrains with higher ground clearance and offer more space and versatility compared to hatchbacks and sedans. Some key features of SUV cars include -

• Higher ground clearance
• All-wheel drive capabilities 
• Spacious interiors with the option for 3rd-row seating
• Powerful engines 
• Robust build quality
• Greater boot space

With improving road infrastructure in India, the practical benefits of SUVs and their powerful and premium looks have made them very desirable.

History of SUV Cars

The origins of SUVs can be traced back to early 20th-century vehicles like the Jeep and Land Rover that were created for military use with four-wheel drive capability. After World War 2, these rugged vehicles transitioned into civilian models without losing their off-roading prowess.

The 1960s and 70s saw many brands launching SUVs for civilian use. The 1966 Ford Bronco, 1969 Chevrolet Blazer, and the 1970 Range Rover started gaining popularity in America. In India, Premier launched the Padmini Safari EX in the 1980s. 

SUVs started becoming more mainstream in the 1990s as luxury car makers like Mercedes and BMW entered the fray. Over the next decades, car makers focused on offering more refined engines, car-like handling, features, and inherent SUV capabilities.

SUV Cars in India

The SUV segment has seen tremendous growth in India over the last decade. Improved spending capacity and preference for these lifestyle vehicles have led to a 46% share of the Indian passenger vehicle market in 2023. 

With SUVs like the Tata Harrier and Mahindra XUV 700, compact SUVs like the Tata Nexon, and higher-end models like the Toyota Fortuner having long waiting periods - Indians clearly love their SUVs.

The popularity of SUV Cars in India

SUVs have undeniably captured the hearts and minds of Indian car buyers in recent times. From humble beginnings and bit-part players less than a decade back, this vehicle category has seen a monumental rise to account for more than a third of passenger vehicle sales in 2022.

Value Proposition

• SUVs provide greater interior space, seating capacity, and boot space compared to similarly priced sedan models.
• The high ground clearance allows them to handle broken roads in rural areas and deal with water logging in cities.
• Powerful engines deliver an exciting driving experience along with the capability to reach higher speeds effortlessly on highways.
• Advanced features and connected technologies being offered match premium vehicles

Aspirational Lifestyle Choice

• The tall stance, imposing front grilles, and flared wheel arches provide an energetic look.
• Black cladding and body mouldings give an adventurous vibe.
• Chrome inserts, roof rails, and large alloy wheels add to premium aesthetics.
• The high seating allows the driver an imposing view of the road.

Improved Rural Road Infrastructure

• Government investments in national highways and rural roads under government schemes have connected smaller towns.
• The quality of roads in tier 2/3 cities and rural areas has improved drastically over the last decade.
• This allows residents in these areas to utilise better the ‘go anywhere’ capability of SUVs

Feature-Packed New Models

• Modern compact SUV models offer the handling and refinement of sedan segments.
• Packed with segment-leading features like sunroofs, connected tech, and climate control, which were earlier limited to luxury vehicles
• Safety equipment like 6 airbags and electronic stability control that comply with global standards
• Cabin space, driving dynamics, and powerful air conditioning are well-suited for Indian conditions.

Higher Safety Ratings

• New SUV models are achieving high 4-5 star safety ratings in Global NCAP tests.
• Sturdier construction with more metal and steel used ensures SUVs can absorb impact better.
• Designs include crumple zones along with protective passenger cages for enhanced safety.
• The presence of electronic driving aids like traction control and hill hold assist also contribute.

Fuel Efficiency

• Modern turbocharged petrol and diesel engines deliver 15-20 km/l fuel efficiency.
• Comparable to the sedan segment while offering higher power and performance

Assured Resale Value

• Limited availability and increasing demand ensure used SUVs get very good resale value after 3-5 years of ownership.

The SUV trend shows no signs of decline, considering these factors continue to favour them. More Indian families consider them ideal for frequent outstation trips as well!

Different Types of SUVs  

There are different categories and sizes of SUVs available in India catering to different needs and budgets:

• Micro SUVs: The smallest vehicles in this segment, mostly built on hatchback platforms. Some of the micro-SUVs include the Tata Punch, Renault Kwid and Hyundai Exter.
• Compact SUVs: The most popular sub-4 meter SUVs like Tata Nexon and Renault Kiger for city use
• Mid-size SUVs: 5-seater SUVs like MG Hector and Hyundai Creta with more space 
• Full-Size SUVs: 7-seater premium SUVs like Toyota Fortuner and Ford Endeavour 
• Crossovers: Vehicle-based platform for models like the Renault Duster
• Electric SUVs: New generation like Hyundai Kona Electric SUV
• Luxury SUVs: Premium SUV models from BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Volvo etc
• 7-Seater SUVs: Large 7-seater options like Mahindra XUV700

Popular SUV Cars in India

Some of the most in-demand and top-selling SUV cars in India are:

• Hyundai Creta: The popular mid-size SUV with sporty looks, feature-loaded interiors, and value for money
• Kia Seltos: Featuring bold design and premium cues, Seltos has struck a chord with buyers
• Tata Nexon: Highly rated sub-compact SUV priced attractively with style and new-gen features  
• MG Hector: Spacious, tech-enabled mid-size SUV with internet-enabled connectivity
• Mahindra XUV 700: Bold Mahindra SUV with high safety ratings and punchy performance
• Toyota Fortuner: Full-size premium SUV featuring Toyota's refinement and off-road cred

Upcoming SUV Cars in India

With the unstoppable demand for SUVs, 2023-24 will see the launch of some highly anticipated SUV cars in India:

Force Gurkha 5-Door

The iconic off-roader Force Gurkha is likely to launch in a 5-door avatar. The longer wheelbase will allow for more seats and improved practicality while retaining its hardcore off-roading capabilities.

Hyundai Creta Facelift

The popular Hyundai Creta SUV may receive design updates like a new grille, revamped bumpers, and tweaked lighting in a mid-life facelift expected in early 2024. Upgraded interiors and more features are also expected.

Hyundai Alcazar Facelift

Hyundai plans to refresh the 6/7 seater Alcazar SUV with cosmetic changes and added features. Front and rear design changes are likely to align with Hyundai's Sensuous Sportiness design language.

Kia Sonet Facelift

Kia has upgraded the hot-selling Sonet sub-compact SUV with exterior styling updates like redesigned bumpers, grille, and light units. The cabin will be more premium and packed with new gadgets.

Mahindra XUV300 Facelift

The sporty Mahindra XUV300 compact SUV is likely to get exterior tweaks like a new front grille, bumpers, and tail lamps. Interiors will be more upmarket and equipped with new tech and connected features.

Nissan X-Trail

Nissan's all-new 4th-generation X-Trail mid-size SUV is expected to be introduced in late 2024. The 7-seater monocoque crossover will feature Nissan's latest design and technology, just like the global model.

Tata Curvv

The Tata Curvv is an electric SUV concept slated for the 2024 launch. Distinguished by its coupe-like profile, it will offer engaging performance and competitive range.

SUV Car Options 

With over 60 SUV models across sizes and budgets, numerous options are available. Here are some ways to filter the choices:

SUV Cars by Brand

• Tata SUVs: Tata has a highly regarded and value-packed SUV portfolio - Nexon, Harrier and Safari.
• Mahindra SUVs: SUV specialist Mahindra offers capable SUVs like Scorpio-N, XUV700, Thar, etc.
• Hyundai SUVs: Wide range like Venue, Creta, Alcazar and Kona Electric SUV
• Kia SUVs: Trend-setting designs and features in models like Seltos, Sonet, and Carens

SUV Cars by Budget  

SUVs under Rs. 10 lakhs

• Renault Kiger
• Tata Nexon
• Kia Sonet
• Mahindra XUV300
• Tata Punch 
• Maruti Brezza 
• Mahindra Bolero 
• Maruti Fronx 
• Hyundai Exter 
• Hyundai Venue 
• Nissan Maginte 
• Citroen C3
• Citroen C3 Aircross

SUVs under Rs. 15 lakhs

• Kia Seltos
• Hyundai Creta
• MG Astor
• Mahindra XUV700  
• Mahindra Thar 
• Mahindra Scorpio N
• Maruti Jimny
• Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder 
• MG Hector
• Toyota Rumion 
• Skoda Kushaq 
• Tata Nexon EV
• Volkswagon Taigun 
• Mahindra Scorpio Classic 
• Honda Elevate 
• Maruti Grand Vitara

SUV Cars by Fuel Type

• Petrol SUVs: Most compact SUVs like Renault Kiger, Nexon and Venue are petrol-only.
• Diesel SUVs: Some SUVs like Harrier, Safari and Jeep Meridian use diesel power.

SUV Cars by Transmission

Nowadays, all SUV models are offered with both manual and automatic transmission options:

Automatic Transmission

Automatic transmission SUVs utilise a self-shifting gearbox that allows convenient driving without manually changing gears. The hydraulic torque converter and planetary gear set change ratios automatically based on throttle input and driving conditions. 

Manual Transmission

Manual transmission or manual gearbox is the traditional setup where the driver must manually change gears using the clutch pedal and gear stick. It gives the driver more control over gear changes and handling. Modern manual gearboxes have 5-6 speeds. Moreover, the manual transmission allows drivers better control in challenging conditions and models with 4WD.

SUV Cars by Seating Capacity

• 7-Seater SUVs: Full-size models like Toyota Innova Crysta and Tata Safari for big families  
• 5-Seater SUVs: Most compact SUV models like Kia Seltos, Nexon, and Brezza seat 5