In 2023, this segment has expanded with several models that offer a balance of space, comfort, and efficiency. Let's delve into the specifics of the top contenders, ensuring that you have all the information you need to make an informed decision.
Toyota Innova Crysta – The Family Favorite
The Toyota Innova Crysta has been a favorite in Indian households for years, and it continues to impress with its 2023 model. Priced at 30.76 lakhs on-road, it's not the cheapest option, but it offers a 5-door entry with a kerb weight of 1800 kg and a wheelbase of 2750 mm, ensuring a stable and comfortable ride. The seating capacity is 7, slightly under the 8-seater mark, but it compensates with ample space. It stands tall at 1795 mm, with a width of 1830 mm and a length of 4735 mm. The rear suspension is a 4-Link with Coil Spring, and the front suspension is a Double Wishbone with Torsion Bar, both of which contribute to a smooth ride. It complies with the BS VI 2.0 emission norms and is powered by a 2.4L Diesel Engine, promising a robust performance with a max torque of 343Nm@1400-2800rpm and a max power of 147.51bhp@3400rpm. The Innova Crysta is equipped with advanced safety features, including Curtain Shield Airbags and Front Clearance Sonar with MID Indication, ensuring the safety of all passengers.
Toyota Innova Hycross – The Modern Marvel
The Toyota Innova Hycross is a newer addition to the family, with an on-road price of 38.06 lakhs. It's a bit pricier, but it offers a modern take on the 8-seater experience. It has a slightly longer wheelbase than the Crysta at 2850 mm, which translates to more interior space. The Hycross stands with a height of 1790 mm, a width of 1845 mm, and a length of 4755 mm. Its semi-independent Torsion beam rear suspension and MacPherson Strut front suspension ensure a comfortable ride. The Hycross is a petrol vehicle with an automatic transmission, a max torque of 188Nm@4398-5196rpm, and a max power of 183.72bhp@6600rpm. It boasts a 10.1" touch screen with connectivity options like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and it doesn't skimp on safety with features like Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Lane Trace Assist.
Maruti Suzuki Invicto – The Value Proposition
Maruti Suzuki's Invicto is a new entrant in the market, with an on-road price of 35.77 lakhs. While details like the number of doors and kerb weight are not available, it offers a wheelbase of 2850 mm. The Invicto provides a comfortable ride with its Torsion Beam rear suspension and MacPherson Strut front suspension. It's a petrol vehicle with an automatic transmission, offering a max torque of 188Nm@4400-5200rpm and a max power of 150.19bhp@6000rpm. The Invicto is equipped with SmartPlay Magnum+ 25.65 cm Touch Screen and safety features like Curtain Airbags and Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) with Auto Hold.
Mahindra Marazzo – The Affordable Choice
The Mahindra Marazzo is the most affordable option on this list, with an on-road price of 20.47 lakhs. It's the only true 8-seater here, with a 5-door configuration and a kerb weight of 1670 kg. The Marazzo offers a wheelbase of 2760 mm, a height of 1774 mm, a width of 1866 mm, and a length of 4585 mm. It's powered by a D15 1.5 Litre Diesel Engine, with a max torque of 300Nm@1750-2500rpm and a max power of 120.96bhp@3500rpm. The Marazzo's infotainment system includes an 18 cm Color Touch Screen with GPS and Ecosense technology. Safety is also a priority, with features like Rear Camera with Steering Adaptive Parking Guidelines and Crumple Zones for Crash Protection.
Hyundai Alcazar – The Tech-Forward SUV
The Hyundai Alcazar, priced at 25.46 lakhs on-road, is a tech-forward option in the 8-seater segment. It has a 5-door configuration, a kerb weight of 1630 kg, and a wheelbase of 2760 mm. The Alcazar stands at a height of 1675 mm, a width of 1790 mm, and a length of 4500 mm. It's a petrol vehicle with an automatic transmission, a max torque of 253Nm@1500-3500rpm, and a max power of 157.57bhp@5500rpm. The Alcazar is equipped with a 10.25" touch screen and advanced Hyundai Bluelink connectivity. Safety features include Emergency stop signal and Electric parking brake with auto hold.
Tata New Safari – The Rugged Companion
The Tata New Safari is a rugged and stylish option with an on-road price of 31.42 lakhs. It offers a 5-door entry, a kerb weight of 1825 kg, and a wheelbase of 2741 mm. The Safari has a height of 1786 mm, a width of 1894 mm, and a length of 4661 mm. It's powered by a Kryotec 2.0 L Turbocharged Engine with a max torque of 350Nm@1750-2500rpm and a max power of 167.67bhp@3750rpm. The New Safari comes with a 10.4" touch screen infotainment system and safety features like Roll Over Mitigation and Enhanced ESP with 17 functionalities.
MG Hector Plus – The Feature-Rich SUV
The MG Hector Plus, with an on-road price of 28.72 lakhs, is a feature-rich SUV. It has a 5-door configuration, a kerb weight of 1760 kg, and a wheelbase of 2750 mm. The Hector Plus stands at a height of 1760 mm, a width of 1835 mm, and a length of 4699 mm. It's a petrol vehicle with an automatic transmission, a max torque of 250Nm@1600-3600rpm, and a max power of 141bhp@5000rpm. The Hector Plus boasts a 35.56cm HD Portrait Infotainment System and a plethora of safety features, including Traffic Jam Assist and Lane Keep Assist.
Conclusion
The 8-seater car segment in India in 2023 offers a diverse range of options, each with its unique set of features and price points. From the reliable Toyota Innova Crysta to the feature-packed MG Hector Plus, there is a vehicle to suit every need and budget. As you consider your options, remember to prioritize safety, comfort, and efficiency to ensure that your investment is not just a purchase but a contribution to the well-being and happiness of your family and friends on every journey.