The Tata Punch micro SUV has been generating significant volume for the automaker since its market debut in late 2021. It’s the fastest model to achieve the four lakh sales milestone in the SUV segment. The model dominated India’s car sales charts from January to July 2024, with total sales of over 1,26,000 units. Attributes such as SUV-like yet compact stance, competitive pricing, and multiple fuel options (ICE, EV, CNG) have been working in its favor. Aiming to challenge its dominance in the segment, Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai are planning to roll out new models in the next couple of years.
Maruti Suzuki has planned multiple new SUVs, including a three-row SUV based on the Grand Vitara in 2025 and an entry-level SUV in 2026-27. Codenamed Y43, the upcoming Maruti micro SUV will sit below the Brezza in the company’s product portfolio and is expected to cost between Rs 6-7 lakh and Rs 12 lakh. Details of the new Maruti micro SUV are not available at this point in time. However, it is expected to come with 1.2L naturally aspirated petrol and 1.0L turbo petrol engine options.
Hyundai Motor India, on the other hand, is planning to introduce the Inster EV towards the end of 2026. Codenamed HE1i, the electric mini SUV will be based on the E-GMP platform and measure 3,825mm in length. Hyundai’s Sriperumbudur facility will serve as the production hub for the Inster EV. The carmaker will use localized batteries for the micro SUV, which will be sourced from Exide.
The Hyundai Inster EV is likely to be offered with two NMC battery packs – Standard 42kWh and Long-Range 49kWh. While the former will deliver a WLTP-claimed range of 300 km, the latter will promise 355 km on a single charge. Features such as a dual-screen setup for the touchscreen infotainment system and instrument cluster, auto climate control, and a 360-degree camera with blind spot monitoring are expected to be offered.
