The SUV (sports utility vehicle) genre can rightly be termed a favorite. With an SUV comes comfort, a host of features, reliability, and undoubtedly a style statement – reasons why the SUV segment rarely faces hardships. Hereafter we will discuss certain upcoming SUV cars in India. Some have faced an additional delay in release due to the COVID pandemic. But one thing that remains a common fact amongst all of the upcoming SUV cars in India is their anticipation and budding enthusiasm amid the targeted populace.
10 Upcoming SUV Cars in India: 2022
1. Skoda Kodiaq
Estimated price: 35 lakhs Expected release: Mid-January, 2022
The all-new Skoda Kodiaq will come sporting a diesel-only 2-litre TSI turbo-petrol manually transmitted engine, mated with a 7-speed DSG and engine displacement of 1998 cc. Bookings have started for the Kodiaq, with three trim options and multiple color schemes. Skoda has ridden some earlier additions from this 2022 facelifted variant, such as the 2 liter TDI unit.
Easily the best upcoming SUV in India, Kodiaq intends to clash with similar-segment cars like Tiguan by Volks, Ford Endeavour & Toyota Fortuner. Safety and quality equipment is nicely installed and operative – ABS & EBD, rear sensors and camera, 9 airbags, 9.2-inch infotainment system, 10 speaker sound system, triple climate control, electric sunroof, cruise control, etc.
2. BMW X3
Estimated price: 59 lakhs, Expected release: Mid-January, 2022
Challenging the likes of premium SUVs like the Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLC & Volvo XC60, BMW X3 is fully prepared to hit the market this year. A radical change has occurred, apparent at first glance, to its exterior – namely revamped headlights and taillights, redesigned bumper, and frontal grilles. The interior changes, however, have been kept to a minimum.
Thus far, only the engine and powertrain details are verified. BMW X3 draws power from a 1998 cc automatically transmitted engine, a 2-liter turbo-petrol, and a less potent 2-liter diesel-run engine, both incorporating an all-wheel drivetrain. As a new upcoming SUV in India, the X3 is worth waiting for.
3. Volvo XC40 Recharge
Estimated price: 60 lakhs, Expected release: Mid-January, 2022
Since their inception, EVs have never remained much far amidst constant competition and popularity. The same can be said of Volvo XC40, which is an upcoming SUV in India.
Volvo XC40, although without any direct rivals, intends to compete with the likes of the Audi e-Tron and Jaguar I-Pace. The XC40 is run on a 78 kWh battery, powerful enough to generate 408 PS and 660 Nm torque. It can go about 419 km as a driving range and supports fast charging as a cherry on top. Having a fully automatic transmission EV that can go from 0-80 percent in 45 minutes is the first of its kind and, hopefully, first of many.
4. Lexus NX 2022
Estimated price: 60 lakhs, Expected release: Mid-January
Among the most anticipated new upcoming SUV cars in India, Lexus NX reserves a sweet spot mainly due to the addition of the PHEV engine and powertrain option. The NX by the Japanese manufacturer was present in India since 2017, and now in its second generation, the 2022 variant is recognizable mainly through the outlook modifications.
Drawing stylistic inspiration from the LF-Z EV, the NX now looks bolder and sleeker – thanks to the Lexus exclusive Spindle front grilles, combined fog lights, and reworked headlights. It retains the SUV DNA by being well-balanced regarding dimensions as well. Similarly, the interior incorporates a 9-inch infotainment system, fully digital instrument cluster, 360-degree camera, among others. Available in 4 engine variants (2 petrol and 1 turbo-petrol), including the PHEV, which includes an all-wheel drivetrain, Lexus NX showcases its safety features, namely traction control, ABS with EBD, blind-spot monitoring with pride.
5. Audi Q7
Estimated price: 80 lakhs, Expected release: Mid-January, 2022
Exceptionally powerful engine (2967 cc 3-litre turbo-petrol), 8-speed automatic transmission, with two trim options (Premium Plus & Technology), and six cylinders are the trademark features that define Audi Q7, one of the premium-segment upcoming SUV cars in India.
Upon arrival, it will lock horns with BMW X5 & Mercedes-Benz GLE. Audi, much like all of its models, is replete with features. To name a few, these would be a 10-inch infotainment system with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay, ridiculously powerful 19-speaker sound system, broad sunroof, cruise and climate control, power-adjusted front seat with memory function. Additionally, there is no loophole when safety is concerned. It is properly taken care of through ABS with EBD, hill hold assist, electric stability control, 8 airbags, and lastly, a 360-degree camera.
6. Maruti Futuro-e
Estimated price: 15 lakhs, Expected release: February 2022
Maruti Futuro-e is an SUV coupe heightening the reach of fully-autonomous driving technology. First teased at the 2020 Auto Expo, Futuro-e will finally be ready to hit the market this year.
Among the upcoming SUV cars in India, Futuro-e is a highly anticipated one. Its body dynamics are likely to work as a base for future undertakings. The interior is designed on a dual-tone scheme – blue & ivory. The first seats can pivot backward, allowing optimal usage of autonomous driving technology. Feature-wise, Futuro-e is on par with many upper echelon SUVs.
7. Mahindra eKUV 100
Estimated price: 9 lakhs, Expected release: March 2022
Mahindra eKUV, after much delay and disposition, is all set to witness the light of the open market this year in March. However, in terms of outlook, not much can be distinguished from the regular KUV100 and this electric-powered one. However, one crucial marker on the eKUV is the secure front grilles, where the charging ports reside.
Additionally, it runs on a 15.9 kWh battery capable of producing 54 bhp of power and 120 Nm torque. Through regular charging, it can reach 100 percent in 5.5 hours. Fast charging is also supported – thanks to which, within an hour, the battery can get 80 percent capacity. And after a single full charge, Mahindra claims that it delivers a 150 km driving range.
8. Hyundai Venue Facelift
Estimated price: 7-12 lakhs, Expected release: June 2022
This year, Hyundai Venue is likely to beat Creta to the punch when a new facelift is concerned. Globally, the new Venue is hopefully coming first in South Korea, but the news is going to be pretty popular in India as well. Additionally, as per the latest spy shots, the Venue will come sporting the parametric grille design. Also, some other detailing changes in wheel designs and tail lights are about to come. And for the engine variations, 3 options are present – petrol, diesel & turbo-petrol – the 1.5-liter diesel engine being the most potent one.
9. Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza Facelift
Estimated price: 11.50 lakhs, Expected release: July-August 2022
With the 2022 Vitara Brezza facelift, Maruti Suzuki intends to avoid discontinuation and lengthen its lifespan. The new facelift made Vitara Brezza more evolutionary rather than revolutionary, thanks to a thoroughly revised design & characteristics. Keeping the 1.5-liter petrol engine intact with manual/automatic transmission, Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza has given a comprehensive update to its interior features. Similarly, for the exterior, it remains a rugged and sturdy vehicle – fully capable of withstanding rough weather and bad terrain conditions. Moreover, the inclusion of certain latest techs has managed Vitara Brezza to stay steady in the long run.
10. Audi Q3
Estimated price: 33 lakhs, Expected release: August 2022
Among the upcoming SUV cars in India, Audi Q3, though small in stature, has every bit of SUV DNA in essence. Rivaling BMW X1 & Mercedes-Benz GLA, Audi Q3 keeps its price in check by downsizing the interior space and overall dimensions without compromising its performance and appeal to the targeted younger generation. Additionally, Found in two trims – Convenience and Premium Plus – the Q3 delivers all the feature delicacies one expects from any Audi car. Having an expensive taste in outlook, a rather aggressive approach, and a host of modern equipment as standard is enough to make a successful purchase of Audi Q3 when it launches.
SUV cars are a treat to drive &, contrary to popular belief, not a handful to maintain. The upcoming arrivals on this list are, granted, rather pricey. However, their appeal and audience do not shy away from owning one. As a result, the reason being an SUV guarantees longevity and brand value, which almost all of the cars come packed with.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most desirable qualities of an SUV?
Spacious, comfortable & tech-equipped, having enough safety features, with proper suspensions, and durable.
Are all SUVs 4WD?
Not all of them. Some are 2-wheel drive or all-wheel drive as well.
How many kinds of SUVs are there?
Mainly four – mini, compact, full length, and extended.
