There was a time when SUVs formed a niche segment, with homegrown manufacturers Tata and Mahindra being the key players. Over the years, demand of such cars has risen sharply, with a corresponding increase in number of manufacturers selling such cars.
Ford and Renault added momentum to the segment with the EcoSport and the Duster respectively, and now Hyundai has expanded the segment with the Creta. With more and more vehicles flowing in, the SUV segment itself is developing sub segments, an aspect we have seen earlier with premium hatchbacks and mid-size sedans.
Out of the all the SUVs launched this year, here is a look five of the most prominent ones launched.
Hyundai Creta
Hyundai launched the Creta to much fanfare, with automotive pundits also unanimous in praise of this SUV.
Speaking of design, the front fascia of the Creta is dominated by an imposing chrome grille, while the tailgate is just as impressive. On the inside, the compact SUV is packed with features and equipment like touchscreen, push-button start, reverse camera, 6 airbags and Electronic Stability Control
Creta comes with a 1.6-litre petrol engine that produces 121 bhp of power, and is available in two diesel trims – 1.4-litre and 1.6-litre displacements – with the latter capable of churning out 126bhp. All engines come with a six speed gearbox, while the 1.6-litre diesel can also be mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission variant.
Prices of the Creta range from 8.59 lakh to 13.57 lakh (ex-showroom).
Mahindra TUV300
Mahindra launched its own compact SUV this year, known as the TUV300, to grab a share in this increasingly crowded segment.
Although the boxy exteriors make for a poor first impression, the interiors are praiseworthy. Mahindra has followed a dual-tone colour scheme, which gives it a contemporary look.
Under the hood, the TUV300 is powered by the company’s three cylinder, 1.5 litre diesel engine that is badged as the m-Hawk 80 unit. The motor develops 84 bhp of maximum power @ 3,750 rpm and 230Nm of peak torque between 1,500 rpm and 2,250 rpm. The engine is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. There is also an option of a five-speed automated manual transmission, which accounts for nearly 50% of the car’s sales.
Prices of the TUV300 start at 6.90 lakh and go all the way up to 9.12 lakh for the automatic version. Both prices are ex-showroom, Pune.
Volvo XC90
Not only the XC90 takes pride in Volvo’s reputation of producing the safest cars in the world, it is just as equipped and luxurious as its German rivals.
Under the hood, the XC90 packs a 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine that delivers 228 PS of power and 470 Nm of torque. The motor is mated to a 8-speed automatic gearbox that offers seamless shifts.
Being a luxury SUV – and one that comes from Volvo-, the interiors won’t leave you disappointed. All seats are covered in Nappa leather, and the front ones are also ventilated. The design is uncluttered and clean, with majority of the buttons being replaced by a 12.3 touchscreen.
Park assist, keyless entry, panoramic sunroof, rain-sensing wipers and rear camera also come standard in Volvo’s flag bearer.
The Volvo XC90 Momentum has been priced at Rs. 64.9 lakhs and the Inscription trim has been priced at Rs. 77.9 lakhs (both prices are ex-showroom, Mumbai).
Audi Q7
Earlier this month, Audi launched the all new Q7 at an impressive starting price tag of Rs 72 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).
Under the hood of the Q7, you’ll find a 3-litre diesel motor that produces 249 bhp, with power channeled to the wheels through an 8-speed automatic transmission system. Paddle shifters come standard for quicker gearshifts.
Quite impressively, Audi has managed to shed 325kg from the previous iteration of the Q7, making it more agile while also improving its fuel efficiency.
In terms of design, a new hexagonal grille dominates the front of the Q7, with angular LED lamps and a new bumper completing the front-fascia. Inside, the SUV is fully loaded with Audi’s new infotainment system, a 19-speaker Bose audio set, a panoramic sunroof, navigation, among other equipments.
It is available in two variants, namely, Premium Plus and Technology, priced at Rs 72 lakh and Rs 77.5 lakh respectively. Both prices are ex-showroom, Delhi.
Land Rover Discovery Sport
Land Rover has launched the replacement of the popular Freelander 2 in India, christened as the Discovery Sport.
It is powered by a 2.2 litre, four cylinder, turbo diesel engine which also does duty in the Jaguar XF sedan and the Range Rover Evoque. The engine in the SD4 model has a max power output of 187.7 bhp @ 3,500 rpm and 420Nm of peak torque @ 1,750 rpm. In TD4 spec, the engine develops 147.5 bhp @ 4,000 rpm and 400Nm @ 1,750 rpm. The engine is mated to ZF’s nine-speed automatic gearbox.
The seven seater SUV competes with BMW X3 and Audi Q5, as well as the Volvo XC60. Ex-showroom, Mumbai prices of the Discovery Sport range from 46.10 lakh to 62.10 lakh.
Write your Comment