5 Upcoming SUVs to Watch: Nissan X-Trail, Mahindra Thar 5-Door, Tata Curvv, Citroen Basalt, Tata Nexon iCNG
The festive season is fast approaching, and as we enter the second half of the year, the automobile industry is gearing up for a wave of exciting new launches. With SUVs maintaining their dominance in the market, here are five upcoming models that are generating a lot of buzz and are definitely worth watching out for.
Nissan India is set to expand its portfolio beyond the popular Magnite with the introduction of the X-Trail. This SUV will enter the Indian market via the direct import route, adding a new dimension to Nissan’s offerings. Globally, the X-Trail is available in both 5- and 7-seater configurations, but the Indian market will exclusively get the 7-seater version.
Under the hood, the X-Trail will feature a 1.5-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine paired with a 12V mild-hybrid system. This setup delivers a total output of 161 bhp and 300 Nm of torque, mated to a CVT automatic transmission. This powertrain combination promises a blend of performance and efficiency, catering to the needs of Indian SUV enthusiasts.
The Mahindra Thar 5-door, also known as the Thar Armada, is one of the most anticipated SUVs this year. Scheduled to debut on August 15, the 5-door Thar will bring minor exterior updates but a completely revamped cabin.
Inside, the Thar will feature a twin 10.25-inch infotainment system and driver’s console, enhancing the overall driving experience. Additionally, it is expected to come equipped with Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) similar to the XUV700, a 360-degree camera, and new HVAC controls.
The Thar 5-door will retain the robust 2.0-litre petrol and 2.2-litre diesel engines, available with both 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic torque converter options. This combination of rugged capability and modern technology makes the Thar 5-door a compelling choice for adventure enthusiasts.
Tata Motors is gearing up to introduce the Curvv, a new coupe SUV, on August 7. The Curvv EV will be the first to launch, followed by its internal combustion engine variant. Staying true to Tata's new design language, the Curvv EV features a split headlight cluster, a wide front fascia, and a bold front bumper.
The front of the Curvv EV also boasts Tata Motors’ signature LED DRLs running across the grille. While specific specifications have not yet been revealed, Tata has indicated that the Curvv EV will offer a driving range of up to 500 km and a charging capability of 50kW DC. This makes it a promising addition to Tata’s growing EV lineup.
Citroen is set to unveil the Basalt on August 2, with pricing details expected later in the month. The Basalt will be the third vehicle based on the Common Modular Platform (CMP), following the C3 hatchback and the C3 Aircross SUV.
The Citroen Basalt features an aggressive design, highlighted by a massive lower air dam and a stylish sloping roofline. The rear is adorned with new wrap-around LED tail lights, adding to its modern aesthetic. Powering the Basalt will be a 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine, producing 109 bhp. The manual version will offer 190 Nm of torque, while the automatic variant will deliver 205 Nm. This combination of style and performance is set to make the Basalt a standout in the coupe SUV segment.
Tata Motors continues to focus on the CNG market with the upcoming launch of the Nexon iCNG. This variant was showcased at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024 and promises to be a game-changer in the compact SUV segment.
The Nexon iCNG will feature a twin-cylinder CNG tank, ensuring efficient space utilization and practicality. While specific specifications are yet to be disclosed, it is known that the Nexon iCNG will have a single ECU for seamless switching between petrol and CNG modes. Additionally, it will be capable of starting directly in CNG mode, offering convenience and flexibility to drivers.
As the festive season draws near, the excitement in the automotive market is palpable. These five upcoming SUVs—from the versatile Nissan X-Trail and rugged Mahindra Thar 5-Door to the innovative Tata Curvv, stylish Citroen Basalt, and practical Tata Nexon iCNG—promise to bring a mix of performance, innovation, and value to the Indian market. Each model caters to different preferences and needs, ensuring that there’s something for everyone in this highly competitive segment.
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