Launched in mid-2021, the Mahindra XUV700 SUV is the second top-selling model from the indigenous automaker in the country. Within three years of its market presence, the model achieved the 200,000 sales milestone with 15.16 percent YoY (FY24) growth. Mahindra’s flagship SUV is currently available in over 40 variants with petrol and diesel engines, priced between Rs 13.99 lakh and Rs 26.04 lakh (all ex-showroom). Aiming to challenge its dominance in the segment, OEMs such as Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Toyota, Renault, Nissan, and Jeep are planning to introduce new SUVs in the next couple of years.
Maruti Suzuki aims to strengthen its position in the SUV segment with a range of new models, including a premium three-row SUV based on the Grand Vitara. Compared to its donor sibling, the new Maruti 7-seater SUV might have a longer wheelbase while sharing the platform, powertrains, and features. The carmaker’s new Kharkhoda manufacturing facility will serve as the production hub for this model. Toyota Kirloskar Motor will also bring in a rebadged version of the Grand Vitara-based SUV to rival the Mahindra XUV700. Both models are expected to arrive in 2025.
Similarly, Renault and Nissan will share the 7-seater version of the new-gen Duster SUV underpinned by the CMF-B platform. The new Renault 7-seater SUV will measure nearly 4.6 meters in length and have a longer wheelbase. It could be offered with a 130bhp, 1.2L turbo petrol engine with a 48V starter motor setup and a 1.6L petrol hybrid powertrain, which are expected to power the 5-seater Duster. Nissan’s version of the 7-seater Duster will carry a different nameplate along with Magnite-inspired design elements.
Jeep has also revealed its plan to consider a new Rs 20 lakh SUV that will compete with the Mahindra XUV700. Details are scant at this point in time, though the model is likely to be the Jeep Renegade that’s already on sale in select global markets. Hyundai Motor India will also join the bandwagon with a new premium three-row SUV that could be offered with both petrol and diesel powertrains.
