5+ Highly Anticipated New Midsize SUVs in India (2024)

Expected Launch: September 2024

Maruti Suzuki is ready to make its grand entry into the electric vehicle segment with the highly anticipated e-Vitara. This all-electric midsize SUV will mark a significant milestone for India’s largest carmaker as it transitions toward sustainable mobility solutions.

The e-Vitara will be built on the innovative Heartect-e skateboard platform, specifically designed for electric vehicles. What makes this launch particularly exciting is the dual battery configuration options – a standard 49 kWh battery pack and a larger 61 kWh variant that promises an impressive range of over 500 km on a single charge.

Key Features:

• Dual battery options (49 kWh and 61 kWh)
• 500+ km range on the larger battery variant
• Fast charging capability (10-80% in under 30 minutes)
• Advanced infotainment system with connected car features
• ADAS Level 2 functionality
• Premium Nexa dealership network exclusivity

Expected Launch: Late 2024 (EV) / Early 2025 (ICE)

The iconic Tata Sierra nameplate is making a comeback, and it’s generating significant buzz among SUV enthusiasts. In a strategic move, Tata Motors plans to introduce the electric version first, followed by internal combustion engine (ICE) variants. This approach aligns with Tata’s commitment to leading India’s electric mobility revolution.

The Sierra EV will share its underpinnings with the Harrier EV, leveraging Tata’s advanced electric architecture. Meanwhile, the ICE version will feature two potent engine options – a new 1.5L turbocharged petrol engine and a robust 2.0L diesel powerplant, catering to different driving preferences.

Key Features:

• Distinctive design inspired by the original Sierra with modern elements
• Spacious 5-seater configuration with premium interiors
• Advanced 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Digital instrument cluster with EV-specific displays
• Multiple drive modes for different terrain conditions
• Level 2 ADAS features including adaptive cruise control

Expected Launch: Early 2025

The Hyundai Creta has dominated the midsize SUV segment in India for years, and the next-generation model aims to further strengthen its position. Expected to arrive by early 2025, the new Creta will undergo a comprehensive redesign both inside and out, bringing it in line with Hyundai’s latest global design language.

The most significant addition to the lineup will be a strong hybrid powertrain, likely shared with the upcoming Kia Seltos hybrid. This will position the Creta as a direct competitor to the Maruti Grand Vitara and Toyota Hyryder in the increasingly popular hybrid SUV space. The existing 1.5-liter petrol, 1.5-liter diesel, and 1.5-liter turbo-petrol engines are expected to continue with refinements.

Key Features:

• Bold new exterior design with parametric grille pattern
• Upgraded interior with premium materials and ambient lighting
• Dual 10.25-inch screens for infotainment and instrumentation
• Advanced ADAS suite with up to 18 safety features
• Panoramic sunroof and ventilated seats
• New strong hybrid powertrain with class-leading fuel efficiency

Expected Launch: Mid 2025

The Kia Seltos is set for a complete generational update, with spy shots already circulating of test mules on Indian roads. The second-generation Seltos will feature a thoroughly revamped exterior design and a significantly upgraded interior with the latest technology features.

The biggest news is the potential addition of a strong hybrid powertrain, which would be a first for Kia in India. This system would likely be shared with the upcoming Hyundai Creta hybrid, positioning both models as strong contenders in the increasingly competitive hybrid SUV segment. The existing engine lineup is expected to continue with refinements.

Key Features:

• Bold new design language with distinctive LED lighting signature
• Larger touchscreen infotainment system with advanced connectivity
• Digital instrument cluster with customizable displays
• Enhanced ADAS features including highway driving assist
• Premium Bose audio system with ambient sound themes
• New strong hybrid powertrain option for superior fuel efficiency

Expected Launch: Early 2026

Mahindra has begun development work on a significant update for its flagship XUV700. While technically slated for early 2026, the anticipation is already building for this refresh of one of India’s most popular midsize SUVs. The updated XUV700 will retain its core strengths while introducing design refinements and feature enhancements.

The existing powertrains – the potent 2.0-liter mStallion turbo petrol and the robust 2.2-liter mHawk diesel – are expected to continue without major mechanical changes. However, Mahindra might introduce mild hybrid technology to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, keeping the XUV700 competitive in an increasingly efficiency-focused market.

Key Features:

• Refreshed exterior styling with new front fascia
• Updated interior with enhanced materials and finishes
• Expanded ADAS capabilities with new safety features
• Larger dual-screen setup with updated user interface
• Potential mild hybrid technology for improved efficiency
• Enhanced connected car features with OTA update capability

Expected Launch: Late 2024

The Renault Duster is making a highly anticipated comeback to the Indian market. The next-generation model will be based on the CMF-B+ architecture, which is currently being localized for production in India. This platform will allow Renault to create a more sophisticated and feature-rich SUV while maintaining the rugged character that made the original Duster so popular.

A significant addition to the powertrain lineup will be a hybrid option, likely similar to the E-Tech hybrid system available in global markets. This would position the new Duster as a direct competitor to the Maruti Grand Vitara and Toyota Hyryder in the hybrid SUV space. Conventional petrol engines with turbocharging are also expected to be offered.

Key Features:

• Distinctive rugged design with significant off-road capability
• Modern interior with floating touchscreen infotainment system
• Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS)
• Multi-terrain drive modes for various surface conditions
• E-Tech hybrid powertrain option for superior efficiency
• Potential AWD option for higher variants

Expected Launch: FY 2025-26

Nissan is planning a significant product offensive for the Indian market, with a new midsize SUV positioned as one of its key launches. This model will effectively serve as the spiritual successor to the Terrano, which was discontinued several years ago. The new SUV will share its platform with the upcoming Renault Duster, leveraging the alliance’s CMF-B+ architecture.

While specific details remain limited, the SUV is expected to feature Nissan’s distinctive design language with the signature V-motion grille and boomerang-shaped lighting elements. Like its Renault counterpart, a hybrid powertrain option is likely to be offered alongside conventional petrol engines, catering to the growing demand for fuel-efficient SUVs.

Key Features:

• Distinctive Nissan design language with V-motion grille
• Spacious interior with premium materials and finishes
• Advanced Nissan Connect features with smartphone integration
• Comprehensive safety package with multiple airbags
• Potential e-Power hybrid technology from global Nissan lineup
• Multiple drive modes for various road conditions

Electrification and Hybridization

The upcoming midsize SUV launches clearly indicate a strong shift toward electrification and hybridization. Maruti Suzuki’s entry into the EV space with the e-Vitara signals a significant market evolution, while Tata’s strategy of launching the Sierra in EV form first underscores the growing importance of electric mobility.

Strong hybrid powertrains are becoming increasingly popular, with Hyundai, Kia, Renault, and Nissan all planning hybrid options for their upcoming models. These systems offer a practical middle ground between conventional engines and full electrification, providing significant fuel efficiency improvements without range anxiety.

“The midsize SUV segment in India is rapidly evolving with electrification and hybridization becoming key differentiators. By 2026, we expect over 30% of midsize SUV sales to come from electrified powertrains, including strong hybrids and pure EVs.”

– Automotive Industry Analyst

Advanced Technology Integration

ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) features are becoming standard offerings in the midsize SUV segment. From adaptive cruise control to lane keeping assist and autonomous emergency braking, these safety technologies are no longer limited to premium vehicles.

Connected car technology is another area seeing rapid advancement, with manufacturers offering smartphone integration, OTA (Over-The-Air) updates, and remote vehicle control. Digital instrument clusters and large touchscreen infotainment systems are becoming the norm rather than exceptions.