The micro SUV segment in India is currently dominated by the Tata Punch, introduced in late 2021. In fact, it has become the country’s top-selling car with average monthly sales of over 10,000 units. The micro SUV has been favored for its styling, interior, drivability, and affordable pricing. Aiming to challenge Punch’s dominance and tap into the growing mini SUV segment, OEMs like Hyundai and Maruti Suzuki will bring in new models named Inster EV and Y43 (codename).
Hyundai’s Tata Punch rival micro SUV is reported to arrive in the second half of 2026. Codenamed HE1i, the model will be based on the Inster EV, which was showcased at this year’s Busan Auto Show in South Korea. Dimensionally, the Hyundai Inster is slightly smaller than its arch rival – Punch. Globally, it’s offered with Standard 42kWh and Long-Range 49kWh battery packs, promising a range of 300km and 355km, respectively.
The micro SUV comes with features such as a 360-degree camera with blind spot monitoring, dual 10.25-inch displays for the touchscreen infotainment system and instrument cluster, auto climate control, ADAS tech, and more. The Inster EV will be manufactured at Hyundai’s Sriperumbudur facility using localized batteries from Exide.
If reports are to be believed, the Indo-Japanese automaker is planning to introduce a new sub-4 metre SUV that will be positioned below the Brezza. It’s likely to be sold alongside the Ignis in India. The model is likely to carry an upright, SUV-ish stance and borrow its powertrain from the Swift hatchback. The hatch comes with the new 1.2L Z12E petrol engine delivering power worth 82bhp and 112Nm of torque. Both manual and AMT gearboxes could be on offer. The Maruti Y43 is expected to go on sale around October 2026. Details of the model are not available at this point of time.
