SUVs in recent years have become a favourite among car buyers in India, and automakers have taken action to capitalise on this demand. 2019 is set to be no different, with automakers looking to update or add new SUVs to their line-up over the course of the year.
Here is a look at some of the hotly anticipated SUVs that are expected to launch in the country next year:
AUDI Q3 -- end 2019
The new Q3 borrows styling inspiration from Audi’s new Q8 flagship SUV, especially at the front. The cabin is roomier than its predecessor as it is based on a new version of VW’s MQB platform. This has also seen overall length and width increase marginally. The interior is more upmarket than before and there’s more equipment on offer as well.
Engines on offer could include a 150hp, 1.5-litre turbo-petrol unit (35TFSI) and a 2.0-litre diesel mill in two states of tune – 150hp (35TDI) and 190hp (40TDI). Expect a launch sometime late next year.
AUDI Q8 -- mid 2019
Audi’s flagship SUV is currently under consideration for India. The SUV features a coupé-like roofline and frameless doors along with styling flourishes like bulging wheel arches and optional 22-inch wheels. While the same size as the Q7, the Q8 is a strict five-seater with cabin design influenced by the new A8; notably the touchscreen-based control systems to operate in-cabin functions.
The Q8 is likely to be available with a choice of two 3.0-litre engines – a 340hp petrol (55TFSI) and a 286hp diesel (50TDI). The Q8 will rival the likes of the BMW X6 and Mercedes GLE Coupe.
BMW X5 -- mid 2019
The new X5 is bigger, has updated powertrains, and features the brand’s latest digital cockpit and infotainment functions – a 12.3-inch display for both – and seating for seven (as an optional extra). Other options include a head-up display, larger infotainment display, a Bowers & Wilkins sound system, speech recognition, gesture control and a touch-control rear seat entertainment system.
At launch, the SUV is likely to be offered with a pair of six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines. The diesel is expected be the 265hp, 3.0-litre unit while the petrol engine in question is a 340hp, 3.0-litre motor.
HYUNDAI COMPACT SUV -- Mar-Apr 2019
Hyundai’s compact SUV (codename: QXi) is set to launch next year in March. In production form, the compact SUV will retain a few elements from the 2016 Carlino concept. The front grille will be a variation of Hyundai’s cascading grille, while the split headlamps will be a new addition. It’s also likely to resemble the Creta in profile.
While final specifications are not known, the model is expected to be available with a 118hp, 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine, as well as a new BS-VI compliant 1.5-litre diesel motor. The latter is expected to develop around 115hp and 250Nm of torque. Expect it to sport a premium price tag.
KIA SP CONCEPT-BASED SUV -- Apr 2019
Kia will make its India debut with the production-spec SP Concept-based SUV. The SP Concept made its debut at the 2018 Auto Expo and grabbed plenty of eyeballs. Up front, the ‘Tiger Nose’ grille is likely to be retained, along with the slim headlamps and tail-lights. Expect it to have a spacious interior with funky styling and most features you’d expect in an SUV of this size.
Speculation suggests the SUV will share its platform with the next-gen Creta, and will likely be offered with 1.6-litre diesel and petrol engines. Expect Kia to launch the SUV sometime in April next year.
MAHINDRA S201 SUV -- early 2019
Mahindra is readying its new sub-four-metre SUV (codename: S201) for a market launch early next year. Based on the SsangYong Tivoli, the new SUV’s look will be similar to its sibling, but will get different front and rear styling along with more ground clearance and chunkier tyres. Also expect the SUV to come packed with features.
The SUV is expected to be offered with the 1.5-litre diesel engine from the Marazzo along with a new 1.2-litre turbo-petrol powerplant derived from the 1.2-litre unit powering the KUV100.
MERCEDES-BENZ GLE -- mid 2019
The new GLE looks more muscular and gets – for the first time ever – seating for seven, and an advanced suspension system that Mercedes claims surpasses even the one found on the S-class. The SUV is roomier than its predecessor with an 80mm longer wheelbase, resulting in second row legroom going up by 69mm. The third row of seats will be optional.
The interior includes two 12.3-inch digital displays as standard, a multi-function steering wheel with touch panels and a touchpad in the centre console, replacing the current model’s rotary dial. Engine options are likely to include 3.0-litre V6 petrol and diesel mills, along with a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder diesel; all mated to a 9-speed automatic gearbox.
NISSAN KICKS -- early 2019
Positioned above the Terrano, the India-spec Kicks looks largely similar to the model sold in international markets. However, it is longer at around 4.4m in length, and is likely to be taller and have a longer wheelbase as well to create a spacious interior. Equipment offered will include an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control and several other goodies.
The Kicks is likely to use the tried-and-tested 110hp, 1.5-litre diesel motor, and the 106hp, 1.6-litre petrol engine from the Terrano. Gearbox options could include a 6-speed manual for the diesel and a 5-speed manual for the petrol. A CVT gearbox could also be offered on the petrol model.
