By: HT Auto Desk , updated on: Sep 15, 2024, 08:45 am
View the latest and major updates from the Indian and global automotive industry.
View the latest and major updates from the Indian and global automotive industry.
HT Auto provides instant updates on important events happening in the automotive sector in India and around the world. In view of the many recent changes in the automotive industry, below is a brief account of the major developments that took place on Saturday, September 14.
New Volkswagen subcompact SUV teased ahead of debut
Volkswagen has released a teaser of a new subcompact SUV that will be the brand's new entry-level offering in the segment. Think of it as Volkswagen's rival to the Tata Nexon. However, the upcoming Volkswagen SUV codenamed 'A0' has been developed for the Latin American markets and will be first introduced in Brazil next year. If launched in India, the upcoming model will rival the Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet and other similar cars.
Also read: Teaser of new Volkswagen subcompact SUV released, will compete with Tata Nexon
Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV to be launched in India on September 16
Mercedes-Benz India is all set to further expand its electric vehicle lineup with its next offering, the EQS electric SUV. The company recently introduced the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV in the country and has now confirmed the launch of the regular EQS electric SUV on September 16, 2024. This will be the automaker's sixth electric offering in India apart from the EQA, EQB, EQE SUV, EQS luxury sedan.
Also Read: Mercedes-Benz EQS electric luxury SUV to launch in India on September 16
Mahindra Thar Rocks Arrives At Dealerships, Bookings Open Unofficially
(Also read: Mahindra Thar Rocks arrives at dealerships, bookings unofficially open)
The new Mahindra Thar Rocks has started arriving at dealerships across India and bookings are open unofficially at select outlets. Test drives will begin from September 14. Price Priced at Rs 12.99 lakh (ex-showroom), the five-door version of the Thar offers two engine options, improved safety features and additional off-road technology.
Find out about upcoming cars in India, electric vehicles, upcoming bikes in India and cutting-edge technology that is changing the automotive landscape.
First Publication Date: Sep 15, 2024, 08:45 AM IST
The rollout of SUVs will begin early next year with the first India-made electric vehicle and at least two gasoline-powered models ready for market from 2026, three sources with knowledge of the company's plans said.
Hyundai's first listing outside South Korea, as well as its strategy to add higher-margin offerings, signal its positive outlook toward the world's third-largest car market, as its presence in China is shrinking and domestic sales are declining.
Also read: Hyundai targets 30 per cent sales growth by 2030, doubles hybrid car lineup
Hyundai's sales in India trail only Maruti Suzuki, though in a fast-changing competitive landscape, homegrown giants Tata Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra have dented its market share with new SUVs that are now the top-selling vehicles, replacing the once-favourite small cars.
This has pulled down Hyundai's Indian market share to 14.6 per cent from 17.5 per cent four years ago, while Tata's share has nearly tripled to 14 per cent in the same period. Toyota, the next-largest foreign rival, has seen its share rise from four per cent to six per cent.
“Hyundai is in a difficult position,” said VG Ramakrishnan, managing partner at consultancy Avantiam. “Its primary focus should be on how to maintain its market share and the only way to do that is by introducing products rapidly.”
Hyundai did not respond to requests for comment on its plans in India.
'Lively Market'
India is the third-largest revenue-generating country for Hyundai after the US and South Korea, and the company has already invested $5 billion in the country, with a commitment to invest another $4 billion over the next decade.
“We are proud to consistently achieve the second largest market share in this vibrant market and will continue to lead Hyundai as a premium brand,” Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chairman Euisun Chung said during his visit to India in April.
Also Read: Kia Carnival Arrives In Delhi, Spotted At Delhi Airport Ahead Of Launch
Hyundai's launch of an India-made electric SUV in 2025 will be followed by the introduction of four more EVs by the end of the decade as it evaluates plans to make the country a regional EV export hub, three sources not authorised to speak to the media said.
Hyundai on Wednesday announced it will launch hybrid cars in India as part of a broader strategy to increase global sales to 30 percent by 2030, boosting its plan to sell higher-priced vehicles in the country to boost margins.
Its share of cars priced at least $18,000 – considered upmarket in India – is set to double to 15 per cent between 2021 and 2023, according to its draft IPO filed in June.
Hyundai, which plans to sell its 17.5 per cent stake in the Indian business to the public, said it will continue its “premiumisation” strategy that has helped it post the highest profit margins among peers in India, but the gains have come at the cost of volumes.
Also Read: Hyundai Creta EV 2025 to be unveiled at India Mobility Expo – Key Facts
Ramakrishnan said the auto maker will have to maintain a good balance between market share and margins after its listing.
“If any of these deteriorates, shareholders may question the company,” he said.
Hyundai's sales in India were at an all-time high last fiscal year, despite its market share declining.
intense competition
Hyundai Motor had initial success in the Indian market due to affordable hatchbacks like the Santro, while the i10 and i20 models also continue to enjoy similar success.
Hyundai entered India in 1996 and its initial success in the country, which has been a graveyard for automakers such as Ford and General Motors, was due to affordable hatchbacks such as the Santro, which has now been discontinued.
As customer preferences changed, Hyundai launched its first locally produced SUV in 2015. The mid-sized Creta, priced between $13,000 and $24,000, was an instant success and became Hyundai's biggest grossing car.
Hyundai's 13-car portfolio now has eight SUVs, but its share of India's total 25 lakh SUV sales last fiscal declined to 19 per cent from 24 per cent three years ago, IPO documents show.
Also read: From Creta EV to Harrier EV, these are the expected EVs to launch before March 2025
Of the two new gasoline-powered SUVs that Hyundai is planning for India, the first will be based on the Bayon crossover currently sold in global markets and will compete with Maruti's Frontx crossover and Tata's Nexon SUV, three sources said.
The second car will be bigger than the Hyundai Creta SUV and will compete with the Mahindra XUV700.
These two SUVs are expected to boost Hyundai's sales by around 120,000 units annually, a source said. Industry data shows the carmaker sold 615,000 cars in India, of which 63 per cent were SUVs and the rest hatchbacks and sedans. The company exported 163,000 vehicles in the last fiscal.
However, Hyundai's rivals aren't standing still.
Tata, India's top-selling EV maker with a market share of over 75 per cent, has said it plans to launch five EVs in the next three to four years, taking its total to 10.
Mahindra has said it will launch seven electric SUVs and six new gasoline-powered SUVs by the end of the decade. Market leader Maruti is doubling down on SUVs and hybrids and plans to launch six EVs by 2031.
“What has taken Hyundai this far will not necessarily take it into the future. Competition is even more intense,” said an Indian supplier of Hyundai.
Find out about upcoming cars in India, electric vehicles, upcoming bikes in India and cutting-edge technology that is changing the automotive landscape.
By: HT Auto Desk , updated on: 26 Aug 2024, 07:17 am
Here is a brief summary of all the important events that happened in the Indian automotive industry on August 23.
Here is a brief summary of all the important events that happened in the Indian automotive industry on August 23.
HT Auto ensures that you stay informed about the important developments in both the Indian and global automotive industry. Given the rapid changes taking place in the automobile and motorcycle sectors, we present a brief but comprehensive summary of the major events of Sunday, August 25.
Tata Nexon CNG will get AMT technology
Tata Nexon CNG is one of the most awaited cars in India, which is likely to be launched before the upcoming festive season. Most interestingly, Tata Nexon CNG will feature AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) technology, just like its siblings Tiago CNG and Tigor CNG. The domestic auto giant introduced CNG-AMT technology in the Tiago and Tigor models earlier this year. Now, the same technology is expected to come to Nexon as well, which will further enhance the appeal of the already popular compact SUV.
Also read: Tata Nexon CNG will get AMT technology, will be at par with Tiago and Tigor CNG
MG Windsor EV showcases yet another capability
(Also read: MG Windsor EV showcases yet another capability. See details)
Another day, another teaser for the MG Windsor EV. Ahead of its official launch on September 9, 2024, the automaker has released a new teaser showcasing the vehicle's capabilities in extreme conditions. In a new teaser, the MG Windsor EV can be seen driving through the Rann of Kutch in Gujarat. It aims to showcase the vehicle's ability to withstand the scorching heat of the region, which can reach up to 48 degrees Celsius during peak summers. It should be noted that EVs are less efficient in extremely high and low temperatures. Interestingly, the Rann of Kutch experiences temperatures reaching up to 48 degrees Celsius during peak summers.
First Publication Date: 26 August 2024, 07:17 AM IST
By: Paarth Khatri | Updated on: 15 May 2024, 10:04 AM
Mahindra XUV 3XO is offered with three engine options and nine variants.
The Mahindra XUV 3XO comes with a new 6-speed automatic transmission.
Mahindra recently launched the XUV 3XO in the Indian market. It is essentially a heavily updated version of the XUV300. Now, the brand has opened bookings for the XUV 3XO online on the website and at authorised dealerships as well. Mahindra has also announced that they will be commencing deliveries of the sub-compact SUV from 26th May. Having said that, interested customers can already check out the XUV 3X0 at the nearby dealerships.
The XUV 3X0 will be offered with three engine options. There is a 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine, a 1.2-litre petrol engine with direct-injection and a 1.5-litre diesel engine. The direct-injection petrol engine puts out 128 bhp of max power and a peak torque output of 230 Nm. The turbo petrol produces 108 bhp and 200 Nm whereas the diesel engine puts out 115 bhp and 300 Nm.
As standard, all engines come mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox whereas the diesel engine also gets a 6-speed AMT. What’s new for the 3XO is the 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission that is now available on both petrol engines.
Mahindra is offering the XUV 3XO in nine variants. The prices start at ₹7.49 lakh and go up to ₹15.49 lakh. Both prices are ex-showroom. The main rivals of the XUV 3XO are the Kia Sonet, Tata Nexon, Maruti SuzukiBrezza, Hyundai Venue and the upcoming compact SUV from Skoda.
Watch: Mahindra XUV 3XO review: XUV300 reborn with more zeal and style? | Check – Price, Interior, Colours
Some of the highlights of the XUV 3XO are the panoramic sunroof which is the largest in the segment, there is a 360-degree parking camera, dual-zone climate control and auto hold with an electronic parking brake. Then there is the addition of Level 2 ADAS. The hardware is shared with the XUV700. Moreover, there are also three steering modes – Comfort, Normal and Sport.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 11 Apr 2024, 13:31 PM
Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor is essentially a rebadged iteration of the Maruti Suzuki Fronx. This crossover comes as the latest product under the Suzuk
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Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor is essentially a rebadged iteration of the Maruti Suzuki Fronx. This crossover comes as the latest product under the Suzuki-Toyota global agreement for model and technology sharing.
Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor is essentially a rebadged iteration of the Maruti Suzuki Fronx. This crossover comes as the latest product under the Suzuki-Toyota global agreement for model and technology sharing.
Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor has been launched as the latest entrant in the Indian passenger vehicle market’s compact segment. It is basically a rebadged version of the Maruti Suzuki Fronx, which was launched last year as a crossover based on the Maruti Suzuki Baleno premium hatchback. Toyota and Maruti Suzuki both have already launched multiple cars in India, which come under the Suzuki-Toyota global agreement for model and technology sharing. The Taisor comes as the latest addition to the list.
The Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor has been launched in a segment that has been witnessing fierce competition from multiple OEMs. The compact SUV and crossover segment has been witnessing ever-increasing demand, fuelling the OEMs to introduce a range of products in this space. Taisor comes as part of that wave. The crossover competes with rivals such as Tata Nexon, Kia Sonet, Hyundai Venue etc.
Here is a price and specification-based comparison between the Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor and Hyundai Venue.
Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor vs Hyundai Venue: Price
Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor is priced between ₹7.73 lakh and ₹13.03 lakh (ex-showroom). On the other hand, the Hyundai Venue comes priced between ₹7.94 lakh and ₹13.48 lakh (ex-showroom).
Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor vs Hyundai Venue: Specifications
The newly launched Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor crossover comes available in two different petrol engine options. There is a 1.2-litre petrol engine and a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol motor. The 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine is available with a CNG combination as well. The 1.2-litre petrol engine churns out 88.5 bhp peak power and 113 Nm maximum torque in petrol-only mode, while in CNG mode, it offers 76.44 bhp power and 98.5 Nm torque. The 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine generates 98.6 bhp power and 147.6 Nm torque. Transmission options for the crossover include a five-speed manual unit, a five-speed AMT and a six-speed automatic gearbox.
Watch: 2022 Hyundai Venue facelift SUV: First Drive Review
Hyundai Venue is available in both petrol and diesel options. The Venue gets a 1.2-litre petrol engine and a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, while there is a 1.5-litre diesel motor on offer as well. The naturally aspirated 1.2-litre petrol engine is available with a five-speed manual transmission and generates 82 bhp peak power and 113.8 Nm torque. The turbocharged petrol motor is available with a six-speed manual gearbox, while there is a seven-speed DCT option as well. This engine churns out 118 bhp peak power and 172 Nm torque. The diesel motor on the other hand is available with a six-speed manual gearbox and pumps out 114 bhp peak power and 250 Nm of torque.
By: Srinjoy Bal | Updated on: 07 Apr 2024, 14:58 PM
A teaser by Pratap Bose, Chief Design Officer at Mahindra, reveals a sleek dashboard similar to the XUV400, complete with a 26.04 cm touchscreen infot
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A teaser by Pratap Bose, Chief Design Officer at Mahindra, reveals a sleek dashboard similar to the XUV400, complete with a 26.04 cm touchscreen infotainment system and digital instrument cluster. The interior will boast a white theme and a panoramic sunroof among others
Mahindra is set to make waves in the compact SUV segment with the upcoming XUV3X0, an upgrade to the XUV300
Mahindra and Mahindra, the renowned Indian SUV maker, are gearing up to make a splash in the compact SUV segment with the upcoming Mahindra XUV3X0. Positioned as an upgrade to the existing XUV300, this new model is slated to make its global debut on April 29, 2024. While an earlier teaser offered a glimpse of the vehicle’s exterior, a recent teaser shared by Pratap Bose, Chief Design Officer at Mahindra and Mahindra, has revealed even more details.
Bose’s teaser, shared on his social media platform, ‘X’, hints at a new interior setup for the XUV3X0, drawing inspiration from the updated XUV400. The compact SUV is expected to feature a 26.04 cm touchscreen infotainment system and a digital instrument cluster, promising a modern and immersive driving experience.
In addition to the new dashboard, the teaser also highlights the interior’s white theme and a panoramic sunroof that extends to the rear passenger compartment. Among the anticipated features are a wireless charger, automatic climate control, new upholstery, and more, promising a blend of comfort and convenience.
A previous teaser video from Mahindra showcased the XUV3X0’s redesigned grille, C-shaped LED DRLs, and headlights at the front, along with connected tail lights at the rear. The video also hinted at the inclusion of ventilated seats and a premium sound system. The SUV’s alloy wheel design has also been revamped, distinguishing it from its predecessor, the XUV300.
While retaining the XUV300’s silhouette, the new compact SUV is not expected to undergo any changes under the hood. The Mahindra XUV3X0 is expected to feature the same engine and transmission options as the XUV300. Currently, the XUV300 facelift offers two turbocharged petrol engine choices and one diesel engine. The 1.2-liter turbocharged petrol engine produces 108 bhp and 200 Nm of torque. The 1.2-liter GDi turbo engine delivers 128 bhp and either 230 Nm or 250 Nm of peak torque. The 1.5-liter diesel engine generates 115 bhp and 300 Nm of torque. All engines come with a standard 6-speed manual gearbox, while the turbo-petrol and diesel engines also offer a 6-speed AMT transmission.
Mahindra has been conducting road tests of the XUV300 facelift SUV and the upcoming five-door Thar SUV in India prior to their launch. The XUV3X0 is set to compete with other sub-compact SUVs such as the Tata Nexon, Maruti Brezza, Hyundai Verna and Kia Sonet among others.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 02 Apr 2024, 07:01 AM
Rapid surges in SUV sales have propelled the growth in rural market sales for all the carmakers in India, while demand for small cars has slumped sign
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Rapid surges in SUV sales have propelled the growth in rural market sales for all the carmakers in India, while demand for small cars has slumped significantly.
Rapid surges in SUV sales have propelled the growth in rural market sales for all the carmakers in India, while demand for small cars has slumped significantly.
Rural India emerged as the driving force behind the record-breaking sales of passenger vehicle sales in FY24. After registering 41.2 lakh passenger vehicles in the CY23, now the Indian auto industry has sold 40 lakh PVs for the first time in a financial year in FY2024, reported Mint. Interestingly, this growth came despite the sliding numbers of hatchbacks, which conventionally remained the driving force behind the Indian passenger vehicle market as well as the rural PV sales.
The report has stated that in FY24, the Indian passenger vehicle market registered a total of 42.3 lakh units and one in every two cars sold in the country were SUVs. The overall passenger vehicle market in the country witnessed an 8.7 per cent year-on-year (YoY) growth over the 38.9 lakh cars sold in the previous financial year, which was another record for the Indian auto industry. Clearly, the sales of the passenger vehicles are on the momentum of creating incremental growth records over the last two financial years.
All OEMs register record rural sales
All the major car manufacturers in India reportedly witnessed all-time-high sales in rural markets in the last financial year. The demand and sales in the rural markets even overtook the urban markets, where the most preferred vehicles are SUVs.
Speaking on the rural demand and sales of Maruti Suzuki, the country’s most-selling passenger vehicle brand, Shashank Srivastava, executive committee member of Maruti Suzuki, said that sales for the OEM in the rural market were 7.87 lakh units, registering an 11 per cent YoY growth. He added that it was much better than the OEM’s urban market growth. “Rural sales of 7.87 lakh units this year, a growth of 11% year-on-year, have been much better than urban growth. Rural growth for the year is about 11% and urban growth is about 7%. And so, this is the highest-ever rural sales that we saw, which also should be a very good signal for the economy,” Srivastava said.
The second bestselling carmaker in India, Hyundai, attributed the rise in rural sales to multiple factors such as infrastructure development, increased access to information, and improved road quality across the country. Tarun Garg, Chief Operating Officer of Hyundai Motor India, said that rural sales for the OEM, for which SUVs account for more than 60 per cent of its total sales, reached a record 19.44 per cent in FY24, up from the previous year’s 18 per cent. This means that nearly one in every five Hyundai cars sold in India in FY24 were sold in rural areas. This signified a burgeoning consumer base beyond urban markets.
For homegrown auto major Tata Motors, rural sales contribute around 40 per cent to the OEM’s total sales. In the past five years, Tata Motors claims to have witnessed a five-times increase in rural market growth. The report quoted a Tata Motors spokesperson revealing that models like Tata Nexon, Punch and Tiago were the company’s highest-selling passenger vehicles in the rural markets in FY24. The OEM also attributed this sales surge to models like Punch CNG and Tiago EV.
What’s driving the surge in rural PV sales
The SUV segment in the Indian passenger vehicle market has been growing at a rapid pace over the last couple of years and it was no different in FY24. In the last fiscal, one in every two passenger vehicles sold in India, were SUVs, becoming the driving factor behind the overall PV sales growth as well as the rural market also. The segment reportedly registered its sharpest growth of 28 per cent in the last fiscal, while sales of hatchbacks or small cars accounted for 28 per cent of the total PV sales volume. The sales of hatchbacks witnessed a 12 per cent slump in the just concluded fiscal, compared to the FY23.
This comes as a major shift in trend. Earlier, the rural markets mostly preferred small cars at the entry level, but over the last couple of years that seems to have changed with aspirations of rural consumers also rising. Speaking on this, Shashank Srivastava said that the percentage sales of smaller cars is still higher in rural areas, but the overall segment construct of the markets is converging. Key factors such as rising rural incomes, higher internet penetration and connectivity are leading this change, Srivastava said. He also said the exponential growth in rural sales isn’t an isolated phenomenon, but a culmination of various factors fostering economic buoyancy in the countryside. “There seems to be a convergence in the segment choices of the rural and the urban consumers with a small lag of time,” the Maruti Suzuki official added.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 25 Feb 2024, 15:57 PM
Tata Motors’ key official Shailesh Chandra has hinted at impending price hikes for passenger vehicles in the coming months.
Tata Motors’ key official Shailesh Chandra has hinted at impending price hikes for passenger vehicles in the coming months.
Despite the rapidly rising demand for personal mobility and SUV-mania across the country, India’s passenger vehicle segment is likely to see less than five per cent growth in the next financial year, forecasted Tata Motors. Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Managing Director Shailesh Chandra stated that India’s domestic passenger vehicle industry is likely to see moderate to less growth in the next fiscal starting in April 2024. However, the Tata Motors official believes electric vehicle sales in the country will grow despite the slow pace of EV charging infrastructure development.
Passenger vehicles to see sluggish growth
Chandra said that in FY23, the industry witnessed 25 per cent growth in the passenger vehicle segment, which is expected to become moderate in this financial year to about eight per cent. The Tata Motors official said that the industry is currently witnessing a high base effect and in the next financial year, there will be be slightly challenging situation for the segment. This challenging situation would result in the industry recording less than a five per cent growth rate in the next financial year, claimed Chandra during an analyst call.
Watch: 2023 Tata Safari review: Family SUV with bachelor spirit?
Passenger vehicles likely to be pricier
In the last few months, automakers in India have announced price hikes for their respective passenger vehicle models citing increasing production costs due to factors such as surging raw material costs, inflation etc. Chandra hinted that there would be more such price hikes in the next financial year, which would pose challenges to the growth of passenger vehicles.
Citing various challenges for the growth of passenger vehicles in India, Chandra noted that while commodity prices have been stable in the past quarter or so, there is a risk that prices may go up going forward. He hinted that costs of crucial raw materials are going up, which may impact the prices of passenger vehicles negatively in the coming months.
Watch: 2023 Tata Nexon EV facelift first drive review: Best-seller gets even better?
Electric vehicles to continue growing
Tata Motors is spearheading the democratisation of electric vehicles in India’s passenger vehicles segment. The homegrown OEM is leading the Indian electric car segment with more than 80 per cent market share. In the last few years, the segment has witnessed rapid growth thanks to various factors such as rising costs of petrol and diesel, narrowing price gap between electric and fossil fuel vehicles, availability of various government subsidies and incentives for EVs, tightening emission norms, growing awareness about environmental pollution and vehicular emissions’ impact on that, the launch of new electric cars etc. Tata Motors believes this growth momentum will continue in the next financial year as well.
Chandra said that in 2023, while the overall passenger vehicle industry grew eight per cent on a year-on-year basis compared to 2022, electric vehicle sales surged by 95-100 per cent YoY compared to the previous year. “I think this trend is likely to continue. So companies with stronger portfolios in CNG and EVs will grow,” Chandra said.
Watch: Tata Altroz iCNG: First Drive Review
Interestingly, this growth projection comes despite the sluggish pace of growth for the electric vehicle charging infrastructure, which is considered a key factor for the growth of electric vehicle sales. “As far as EVs are concerned, I think the biggest challenge here is the pace at which the charging infra is growing. It is lagging behind the pace at which the EV adoption is happening,” Chandra noted further adding, “Given that the charging infra is crucial to the growth and expansion of EV market, we have gone for an open collaboration approach with all charge point operators as well as the oil marketing companies who are focusing on expansion of charging infra.”
By: Sameer Fayaz Contractor | Updated on: 28 Dec 2023, 15:46 PM
Maruti Suzuki achieved the landmark figure in seven years and eight months since the first generation Vitara Brezza went on sale in March 2016.
The Maruti Suzuki Brezza was launched as the Vitara Brezza in March 2016 and went on to achieve the one million sales milestone in December 2023
Maruti Suzuki has recorded a new milestone with one of its most popular SUVs as the Brezza clocked over 10 lakh units in sales. The achievement comes within eight months since the subcompact SUV crossed the nine lakh sales mark. The automaker achieved the landmark figure in a total of 94 months or seven years and eight months, since the first generation Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza went on sale in March 2016.
As of November 2023, Maruti Suzuki had sold 996,608 units of the Brezza and would need an additional 3,392 units to hit the one million milestone, which the company achieved in early December. Now in its second generation, the SUV has been a top seller right from the start averaging monthly sales of nearly 14,000 units every month.
The Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza was first unveiled at the 2016 Auto Expo
The Maruti Suzuki Brezza has also been the top-selling subcompact SUV in the country surpassing rivals like the Tata Nexon, Kia Sonet, Hyundai Venue, Mahindra XUV300 and the like. Notably, the Nexon is the only other SUV to have sales of more than one lakh units in FY2024 so far in the segment.
Maruti Suzuki clocked the one lakh sales milestone in March 2017 within a year of the Vitara Brezza’s launch. The subcompact SUV went on to hit the five lakh sales mark in January 2020, 46 months since its launch. The remaining five lakh units were achieved in just under 47 months, showcasing the same consistency in sales.
The Maruti Suzuki Brezza CNG launched earlier this year helped bring a new push to overall sales
While the first generation Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza was a diesel-only offering with a 1.3-litre oil burner, the carmaker changed that when the facelift arrived in 2020 plonking the 1.5-litre petrol engine. The automaker went on to add a CNG option in March this year, which pushed sales further amidst rising fuel prices. This helped the SUV claim the top spot in the segment, which it lost out to the Nexon in FY2022 and FY2023.
Maruti Suzuki also showcased the idea of a Brezza CNG automatic at the 2023 Auto Expo but the model has not yet been greenlit for production. The company’s UV offerings have been a massive success and helped Maruti to take the throne of the number one SUV maker in the country from Mahindra this year. The brand’s other SUVs include the Fronx, Jimny, and Grand Vitara
India’s automobile industry is constantly evolving. People’s demands keep changing and manufacturers try to ensure that they are fulfilling the demands. The latest push in the industry has come in the form of safe vehicles. People are now well aware of the safety rating of the vehicles. What has helped in pushing safe vehicles is Global NCAP’s #safercarsforindia initiative. As part of this campaign, every year several cars that are being sold in India are crash-tested. This year also several cars were crash-tested and here are five cars that passed GNCAP tests with flying colours in 2023.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 22 Dec 2023, 17:26 PM
Tata Harrier and Safari SUVs have secured five star rating at the Global NCAP crash tests and Bharat NCAP becoming two of the safest cars in India.
Tata Safari and Harrier
Tata Motors was the first automobile manufacturer that really started the movement about safe cars in India with the Nexon. However, they took a long time to crash-test the Harrier and Safari. With the facelifts, the manufacturer finally sent the SUVs to Global NCAP for a crash test and they scored the highest rating in the crash test. Not only this, the Harrier and the Safari are also the first vehicles to be tested by Bharat NCAP. Both the SUVs are based on Land Rover’s Omegarc platform so it makes sense that both SUVs also share the same safety rating and features.
Hyundai Verna
Well, this came as a surprise to everyone. Hyundai Verna scored 5 stars in the Global NCAP crash test. It is the first made-in-India car from Hyundai to achieve five stars in the crash test. The new generation of Verna was launched in the Indian market this year and has been doing decent in terms of sales. The voluntary test for the Hyundai Verna was one of the last tests to be done by Global NCAP for India.
Volkswagen Virtus and Skoda Slavia also scored 5 stars in the Global NCAP crash test. Both sedans come from the manufacturer’s India 2.0 strategy and are based on MQB-A0-IN. This is the same platform that is being used on the Volkswagen Taigun and Skoda Kushaq which also scored 5 stars in a crash test.
Kia Sonet facelift SUV has been unveiled for India with host of changes. The Korean carmaker has upgraded the SUV which competes in the sub-compact segment. In its new avatar, the 2024 Sonet facelift comes across a more tech and feature-loaded version with sportier looks. Among its rivals, Tata Nexon also received major overhaul just a couple of months ago. It will be an interesting contest between the two when Kia launches the new Sonet next month.
Kia has unveiled the new Sonet facelift SUV with several updates, including some segment-first features. It will rival the likes of 2023 Tata Nexon SUV which was also overhauled massively in its latest iteration.
Kia has announced that pre-bookings for the Sonet facelift SUV will start from December 20. According to HT auto sources, the booking amount for the Sonet facelift will be ₹25,000. One can book the SUV through the nearest dealership or through Kia’s official website. Kia Sonet was first launched in India back in September, 2020. Sonet is Kia’s second best-selling model in India. Till November, the carmaker has sold nearly 2.83 lakh units across the country. Since then, this will be the first major update for the SUV that will aim to renew its rivalry with the likes of TataNexon, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, HyundaiVenue, Mahindra XUV300 among others.
With choices galore in the segment, which one should be your pick? Here is a quick comparison between 2024 Kia Sonet and Tata Nexon, two of the models which received updates most recently, to make an informed decision.
Kia Sonet facelift vs Tata Nexon facelift: Specs
The new Sonet has grown marginally compared to its predecessor in terms of dimension. The SUV now stands 3,995 mm in length and 1,790 in width which are similar to the existing dimensions of the Sonet. However, the height of the SUV has increased by 32 mm. It now stands at 1,642 mm instead of 1,610 mm earlier. The wheelbase of the Sonet facelift SUV also remains same at 2,500 mm. Kia will offer Sonet SUV in as many as seven trims. Unlike Tata Motors, Kia has not changed the nomenclature of the variants. There are 11 colour options to choose from, including the new Pewter Olive and two dual-tone exterior themes. Kia will also introduce the Matte Graphite colour exclusively for the X-Line trim.
Compared to Sonet, the new Nexon is similar in size but marginally wider by 14 mm. However, the height of the Nexon is slightly smaller than the new Sonet. Tata Motor offers the Nexon SUV in 11 variants. When it comes to choice of exterior colours, Nexon offers only six against 11 offered on Sonet.
Kia Sonet facelift vs Tata Nexon facelift: Features
Sonet embodies every essence a Korean car manufacturer stands for – feature-rich and loaded with new technology. The Sonet is the first SUV in its segment to be offered with ADAS technology, a feature none of its rivals have yet. This will give Sonet an edge over the likes of Nexon. The ADAS tech is offered with 10 features including lane keep assist, lane follow assist and lane departure warning. There are overall 25 safety features in Sonet, including six airbags as standard, which are more or less similar to what Nexon offers.
In terms of creature comfort, Sonet again stands apart among most its rivals, even Nexon. The updated cabin now comes with a dual digital screen, each measuring 10.25 inches, serving as infotainment system or driver display. Overall, Kia claims there are 25 segment-first features inside Sonet. These also include the likes of ventilated front seats, electric sunroof, air purifier, Bose sound system and power-adjustable driver seat.
Kia Sonet facelift vs Tata Nexon facelift: Engines, performance
Under the hood, Kia has kept things unchanged for the Sonet facelift SUV. There are three engines, including petrol and diesel, offered as choices. The 1.2-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine is capable of churning out 82 bhp of power and 115 Nm of peak torque. The engine will come mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. The second option is the 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine. Mated to either a 6-speed iMT and 7-speed DCT transmission, the engine can generate 118 bhp of power and 172 Nm of peak torque. The sole diesel engine is a 1.5-litre unit which can churn out 114 bhp of power and 250 Nm of peak torque. The only change here is the return of the 6-speed manual gearbox for diesel variants. It also gets a 6-speed automatic gearbox which is a better option than Nexon’s AMT unit.
As far as the new Nexon is concerned, the SUV comes powered by a more powerful 1.2-litre turbo petrol unit that can generate 118 bhp of power and 170 Nm of peak torque. The engine comes mated to either a 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DCA transmission units. The 1.5-litre diesel engine is equally powerful as that of the Sonet. Besides the AMT, Nexon diesel also comes mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox.
Tata Motors launched the Tata Nexon facelift in India a few weeks ago. The facelifted iteration of the Nexon SUV comes with a wide range of updates on the design front, while on the feature front too, it gets an array of fresh features powered by advanced technologies. With the facelift, Tata Nexon has certainly enhanced its appeal further, as well as the automaker ramped up the compact SUV’s competition against rivals like Maruti Suzuki Brezza.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 22 Oct 2023, 16:36 PM
Tata Nexon facelift has been launched with significant design updates and an array of fresh features adding more appeal to the compact SUV, and re-energising its competition against Maruti Suzuki Brezza.
Both the Maruti SuzukiBrezza and the TataNexon sit in a segment which is one of the most competitive categories in the Indian passenger vehicle market. With the rising demand for SUVs and crossovers over the last few years, several automakers have been aiming to grab a sizeable chunk of the Indian SUV segment with their products. However, both Tata Motors and Maruti Suzuki have been able to grab a lot of attention from buyers thanks to their products like Nexon and Brezza respectively.
Here is a comparison between the Tata Nexon facelift and Maruti Suzuki Brezza, based on feature and safety
Specifications Comparison
Tata Nexon
Maruti Suzuki Brezza
Engine
1199.0 to 1497.0 cc
1462.0 cc
Transmission
Manual & Automatic
Manual & Automatic
Mileage
N/A
N/A
Fuel Type
Petrol,Diesel
Petrol,CNG
Tata Nexon facelift vs Maruti Suzuki Brezza: Feature
Both the Tata Nexon facelift and Maruti Suzuki Brezza come equipped with an array of features. The Brezza gets a blend of classic design elements with modern touches. It gets an analogue instrument cluster paired with modern features such as a HUD and a nine-inch touchscreen infotainment system positioned at the centre top of the centre console.
Tata Motors, on the other hand, gets a fully digital instrument cluster, and a large 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The Nexon facelift carries several design elements from the Tata Curvv concept. However, it appears more inclined towards digitalisation compared to the Maruti Suzuki Brezza.
Watch: Tata Nexon facelift first drive review: Can it set the benchmark higher?
Both the compact SUVs come with features like climate control with rear AC vents, electric sunroof and wireless smartphone mirroring technology for the touchscreen infotainment system. Nexon comes with some additional comfort-focused features including the ventilated and height-adjustable front seats, and an illuminated logo-equipped multifunction steering wheel. The Brezza comes with LED fog lamps and HUD adding more value compared to the Nexon facelift.
Watch: 2022 Maruti Suzuki Brezza facelift: First Drive Review
Tata Nexon facelift vs Maruti Suzuki Brezza: Safety
Both the Tata Nexon facelift and Maruti Suzuki Brezza come equipped with a wide range of safety features including six airbags, ABS with EBD, traction control, ISOFIX child seat mounting points etc. The Nexon pre-facelift version received a five-star safety rating in the Global NCAP crash test. While the facelifted version is yet to undergo such a crash test, expect it to come with a more advanced safety quotient, as Tata Motors has hinted.
On the other hand, the Maruti Suzuki Brezza has not been subjected to either a Global NCAP or Bharat NCAP crash test so far. However, the pre-facelift model had scored a four-star rating on the Global NCAP crash test.
Tata Motors has revealed the fuel efficiency figures of the newly-launched 2023 Nexon facelift SUV. The new Nexon comes with a mileage of up to 24.08 kmpl, the highest offered by any SUV with a diesel engine in the sub-compact segment. The fuel efficiency offered by the Nexon facelift SUV ranges between 17.01 kmpl and 17.44 kmpl. Tata Motors launched the new Nexon SUV on September 14 at a starting price of ₹8.10 lakh (ex-showroom).
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 20 Sep 2023, 12:52 PM
Tata Motors launched the 2023 Nexon facelift SUV in India on September 14 at a starting price of ₹8.10 lakh (ex-showroom).
According to the fuel efficiency figures revealed by Tata Motors, the petrol variants of the Nexon SUV with manual and dual-clutch transmission options offer mileage of 17.01 kmpl. The Nexon petrol variants with the AMT gearbox offers 17.44 kmpl of mileage. In diesel version, the Nexon offers at least 23.23 kmpl in variants offered with manual transmission. The variants which are offered with AMT gearbox, offers up to 24.01 kmpl of mileage.
In comparison, Hyundai Venue diesel variants come close to the new Nexon’s fuel efficiency figures. Offered with manual transmission, Venue diesel variants offer mileage of 23.4 kmpl. Kia Sonet diesel variants, which are offered with automatic transmission, offer fuel efficiency of 18.2 kmpl. Mahindra XUV300 is the other SUV in the sub-compact segment which if offered with diesel engine. It offers mileage of 20.1 kmpl in manual variants and 19.07 kmpl in automatic versions.
Also watch: Tata Nexon facelift first drive review – the best-seller adds more glamour
The new Nexon is offered with both petrol and diesel variants. The 1.5-litre turbo diesel unit comes mated to either a six-speed manual or an AMT gearbox. The engine can churn out 113 bhp of power and 260 Nm of peak torque. The 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine comes mated with four transmission choices. These include a five-speed manual, a six-speed manual, a six-speed AMT and a DCT gearbox. The engine can generate 118 bhp of power and 170 Nm of peak torque.
Besides the Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet and Mahindra XUV300, the Nexon facelift SUV also rivals the likes of Maruti Suzuki Brezza in the sub-compact segment. However. Maruti Suzuki does not offer any diesel engine anymore. The Brezza, powered by a 1.5-litre petrol unit, offers up to 19.8 kmpl of mileage in the automatic variants.
