Table of Contents
Introduction to SUVs in India
Definition of SUVs
Sport Utility Vehicles, usually called as SUVs are the car type which offers both a road-going passenger cars ecosystem and off-road vehicles features with shared auto mobility traits such as elevated ground clearance (considered like height from bottom to surface of land) and ruggedness. These are made for both good and the not so suitable terrain but still provide a comfy ride that can surpass thousands of miles while watching your family grow. SUVs of various sizes and powertrains with different engine options appeal to multiple types buyers who use them in city routines or off-road rides.
SUVs — The Craze In India?
If we speak of cars in the last decade, SUVs have become one for India. They have several reasons behind their popularity.
High Ground Clearance: Every Indian must have their story to tell about an experience with a pothole, speed bump or some delightfully bad rough patches of road. SUVs On High Ground Clearance Offer A Better Drive.
Flexible — An SUV can be used for both city commutes and off-road adventures— even on road trips.
Security: SUVs typically pack a higher riding position, superior visibility and more safety equipment than sedans or hatchbacks.
Comfort and Space :SUVs have seating 5 to the max of 7 members upto gap people casually use SUV for family requirements.
Change in the evolution of SUVs in India
SUVs in India began as crude, utility vehicles used for off the road and rural applications. In time, automakers saw the opportunity for small SUVs that would work well in urban centers and by the late 2000s we had a flood of compact and midsize crossovers. The advent of major brands like Mahindra, Tata, Hyundai and Toyota has given the utility vehicle segment a new direction in India becoming one of fastest growing automobile category. The market is abundant in a variety of SUVs today, fit for the needs and wants.
Important Criteria to Remember While Purchasing an SUV in India
Budget
When purchasing Suv, you must first decide your budget Affordable compact models such as the Hyundai Venue, for example, are available in the Indian market starting from around ₹10 lakh to luxurious SUVs that cost upwards of ₹1 crore. To begin with, it helps you to focus your mind on a price range.
Engine Power and Performance
SUV’s with different engine specifications and performance. If you are in search of a juggernaut ride for off-roading or simply heavy towing, opt for an SUV with robust powertrain options including diesel variant. A smaller petrol engine may be enough for city driving
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel economy, especially in the face of soaring fuel prices across India. Most people these days prefer SUVs, and many modern options have incredibly fuel-efficient powerplants — hybrids or even full-electric systems that can reduce your running costs in the long run.
Seating Capacity
You may opt for a seven-seater SUV such as Hyundai Alcazar, Toyota Fortuner in case you have many family members or frequent travel with large groups. For smaller families or single owner, a 5-seater SUV would be fine like the aforementioned Kia Seltos.
Off-Road Capability
GX 460: If you like the idea of an off-road-ready SUV or live in a challenging-terrain area, this is our pick. That makes them great for cars like a Mahindra Thar or Toyota Fortuner that are capable of heading off the beaten path.
Technology and Features
State-of-the-art technology can be found on many of today’s SUVs, with features such as: Touchscreen infotainment systems Smartphone connectivity Automated driver-assistance programs (ADAS) and more. The SUV you decide on should offer the comforts of home so that every drive is a memorable one.
Maintenance Costs
SUV maintenance costs: they change from one model to another Also, check out the cost of long term maintenance such as service intervals (how far miles you have to go before any spare parts are needed) and general reliability.
Usage based SUVs in India
Compact SUVs
The benefits of an SUV without the bulk all aimed at your average city dweller. They have the same elevated seating and ground clearance as SUVs but are smaller. For instance, the Tata Nexon and Kia Sonet.
Midsize SUVs
Midsize SUVs are, as size suggests in between small and large. They are bigger, but they also have more room and features while still being city-friendly. The allotment of time also depends on the category you go for — models such as Hyundai Creta and Tata Harrier are popular choices in this segment.
Full-size SUVs
Maximum space, power and ability is found in the full-size SUV segment. They are a perfect choice for big families or some one impressed with the need to tow enormous trailers, but we won’t go that way. There are already models like Toyota Fortuner and Ford Endeavour ruling the segment.
Luxury SUVs
Luxury SUVAnd of course, there are the luxury SUVs from brands like Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Audi for anyone in search of premium comfort oodles with top-notch features. This crossover manages to deliver immense luxury, cutting-edge technology and performance.
Electric SUVs
Automakers in India are following the trend of introducing electric SUVs, as EVs become more prevalent in our market. Electric SUVs like the Tata Nexon EV and MG ZS EV bring back performance into green driving.
Best 10 SUV Car in India (2024 Edition)
Hyundai Creta
The Hyundai Creta made a great wave in the midsize SUV space. Since it is designed quite stylish and has many good features plus a solid performance to appeal too, the Indian Consumer also loves this car. The Creta is offered in 3 engines, a 1.5-liter petrol and diesel engine options as well It is also equipped with several premium features like a panoramic sunroof, wireless charging and connected car technology.
Pros: Very well equipped seamless ride quality excellent resale value
Disadvantages: Heavy cost for top rated versions
Price Range : INR 10.87 to 19.20 lakh
Kia Seltos
Kia Seltos was one of the top-selling SUVs post its debut in Indian market. The Seltos is known for being a strong design, with good interior quality as well some class leading features on offer. Two engine options will be available — a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated petrol unit and the aforementioned diesel mill. There’s additionally a 1.4-liter turbocharged petrol model for the individuals who need either power or cleaner emissions
Exterior Design: Appearance wise, the Kia Seltos isn’t a bland SUV and gets sharp lines with signature tiger-nose grille upfront flanked by LED headlamps that make it look aggressive in its modern appeal.
Interior Comfort: In terms of comfort, the Seltos sports a modular cabin furnished with high quality materials, 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system and Ambient lighting and well ventilated seats thus travelling in it will indeed be comfortable.
Performance and Engine Options: A peppy performer in petrol trim with the 1.4-liter turbo-petrol, as well high efficiency from diesel ensures longer trips are a breeze
Advanced Safety Features: The Seltos scores big on the safety front too, with six airbags (top-spec), ABS+EBD as standard across the range and electronic stability control in some versions.
Price Range: INR 10.89 to 19.99 lakh
Tata Harrier
The Tata Harrier is a tough, muscular SUV from the automaker’s Impact 2. It rides on the same platform as the Land Rover Discovery Sport, which should mean that it’s very good indeed to drive. The Harrier boasts of a 2.0-liter Kryotec diesel engine that delivers an ideal combination of performance and efficiency
Bold Design Philosophy: With a dominating road presence, courtesy of the aggressive front grille, bold headlamps and flared wheel arches!
Powertrain and Performance: It gets a 2.0-liter diesel engine with an output of 170 PS, hence good cruising capabilities on the highway as well light off-road capability arriving from… The SUV gets Eco, City and Sport driving modes to able drive in different conditions.
Safety and Features – Gets a 5-star Global NCAP safety rating for total peace of mind to passengers. Major highlight include an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, panoramic sunroof and JBL audio system
Variants and Pricing: The Harrier retail anywhere between ₹15.20 lakh – ₹24.27 Lakh
Mahindra Thar
Mahindra Thar is a legendary SUV in India that has been known for its tough looks and off-road capabilities. Introduced this year, the new version of Thar marries current amenities while still honoring its off-roading lineage. The new Thar comes with a choice of petrol and diesel engines as well as manual and automatic transmissions.
Off-Road Capabilities: The Mahindra Thar is adventure at its core, with a 4×4 drivetrain which allows it to take on everything nature throws in its way along with good ground clearance and excellent approach and departure angles. It is capable of difficult terrains such as mud, sand and rocky trails.
Engine Power and Options: The Thar gets a 2.0-liter mStallion petrol engine as well as a 2.2-liter air to water intercooled turbo-diesel powertrain The engines provide plenty of torque and can handle difficult terrain, economically.
It will feature more creature comforts than ever before with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, cruise control and climate control, though that won’t take away its rugged charm entirely.
Price: Rs 10.98-16.93 lakh
MG Hector
While the MG Hector was notably the first product come out of China-owned British carmaker: MG Motors in India, its ample cabin space and feature-loaded equipment grabbed a lot of attention from buyers. The Hector, known for tech features over the internet is a perfect love story of SUV and Tech lovers.
When it comes to design, the Hector’s bold front grille with chrome accents on top helps in catching a lot of attention, along with its big stance and LED DRLs only aid to that. It strikes a balance between urban-friendly design and muscular elegance.
Engine: New-gen Mahindra XUV700 will come with a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine and a 2.0-litre diesel unit A 48V mild-hybrid version is also available on the petrol two-litre engine for improved fuel economy.
Feature & Safety: Hector gets a 10.4-inch vertical touchscreen, voice command, panoramic sunroof and 360-degree camera From a safety perspective, it brings offer six airbags and gets ABS with EBD as well ass host of driver-assistance features.
Pricing- Hector is launched with very competitive prices ₹14.99 Lakh to 22.12 Lakhs
Toyota Fortuner
Engine: The Fortuner is powered by a 2.8-liter turbo-diesel engine with an output of 204 PS and a torque of up to 500 Nm. It is also powered by the 2.7 liter petrol engine The diesel is offered with both manual and automatic gearbox options, while the petrol comes only as an auto.
Safety and Comfort: The Fortuner offers a lot of safety features with seven airbags, VSC (Vehicle Stability Control), Hill Assist Control, parking sensors. The interiors are roomy with lush materials, significantly more substantial touchscreen infotainment and ventilated seats adding to the luxury.
Price Indication: The Toyota Fortuner is positioned in the ₹32.99 – 50.74 lakh region of pricing, which indeed makes it one of those premium yet rugged and powerful SUVs for you to consider buying right away if that suits your style statement better than anything else when purchasing a new SUV!
Mahindra XUV700
One of the most successful product launch since last year The Mahindra XUV700 has really shook things up in the Indian SUV business with its futuristic technology, powerful engine choices and competitive cost tags. Then this modern, feature loaded SUV is undercut with segment firsts and it could change the game for Mahindra.
Design and Exterior Features: The XUV700 sports state-of-the-art design that comes with bold lines, muscular stance while the distinctive LED headlights add streaks of allure. Preserving the car’s premium looks, its smooth silhouette and chrome highlights are finished.
Engine Performance: Under the hood, The XUV700 is powered by a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine and a 2.2-litre hawk diesel motor The base petrol engine produces 200 PS power while the diesel is offered in two outputs – 155 PS for lower trims and 185 HP on higher variants. The quality of both the engines is impressive.
Technology And Safety: One of the key features on offer with the XUV700 is its ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System), which includes functions such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist and autonomous emergency braking to name a few. There is also a large touchscreen infotainment system, dual-zone climate control and a panoramic sunroof.
Price & Variants: The XUV700 comes with a competitive price tag starting from ₹14.00 -₹26.20 lakhs and is expected to attract tech-savvy buyers demanding for performance and excellent features in an SUV. Catch all the latest auto news only on ZEE5.com
Hyundai Alcazar
Hyundai Alcazar is essentially the 7-seater iteration of Hyundai Creta and gets a range of features and several design changes over its smaller sibling to suit its size as well as sitting capacity. It is an excellent family style and affordable SUV.
Space and Seating: Alcazar gets both 6-seater or a 7-seater configuration. The 6-seater version does however get captain seats in the second row, which makes it feel a bit more luxurious. The third row is best used for kids or short trips, but it packs in respectably considering this is a mid-size SUV.
Alcazar Engine & Performance: The Alcazar is available with two powertrain options — a 2.0-litre petrol engine that puts out 159PS and a 1.5-litre diesel producing PS of power counter parted to the non-alterable factor are Said engines MG Hector Plus processes similar figures-. The engines are smooth and the Alcazar is quite a nice car to drive on long trips
Technology and comfort: It gets features such as a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, Bose premium audio system with eight speakers including subwoofer, wireless charging facility along with Hyundai’s BlueLink connected car technology. It also comes with front ventilated seats, ambient lighting as well as a panoramic sunroof.
Price Band: ₹16.77 to ₹21.13 lakh, the OTR price range makes it a premium midsize SUV offering more seats (without compromising on creature comfort)
Tata Nexon EV
The Tata Nexon EV has also been among the top-performing electric SUVs in India, which provides an environmental-friendly driving ethos without compromising on looks or performance. Priced from Rs 13.99 lakh (ex-showroom), the Nexon EV is one of India’s early entrants into electric vehicles that are best suited for city commutes, but have a compatible performance to keep up with daily urban driving conditions as well.
Powering this beast is a 129 PS electric motor that ensures instant torque ensuring the swift and progressive acceleration of the SUV. With its perfectly tuned electric drivetrain, it drives quietly and without emissions.
Battery Range and Charging Time: It is powered by a 30.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack with the driving range of up to 312 km on single charge, perfect for city runabouts or short weekend jaunts It has fast charging, which could be fully correct from 0 to Eighty percent in one hour and moderate pace of imprisonment generally takes about eight-nine hours.
Tech and Features: Inside the Nexon EV, one gets connected car tech along with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system which supports smartphone connectivity all in addition to automatic climate control unit. For the safety, it gets dual airbags, ABS with EBD and rear parking sensors as well.
Tata Nexon EV Pricing and Incentives It also qualifies for numerous state-level incentives and subsidies which help cut the cost even further, making it a more attractive option to EV adopters.
Mercedes-Benz GLE
Still, the Mercedes-Benz GLE has many positives when it comes to luxury and performance in its SUV crossover segment. As a premium SUV it will feature the latest in technology, luxury and engines to keep buyers who only want what is best on this planet entertained.
Luxury Features: A range-topping GLE interior comes stuffed with posh cabin touches strewn about a dual 12. The seats themselves are well-padded and have every conceivable adjustment (from heat to cool, massage) available.
Engine & Performance: The GLE is offered with petrol and diesel options. The petrol variant comes with a 3.0-liter turbocharged engine that churns out power of 367 PS, while the diesel one is powered by a 2.0-liter unit producing PS output of about remaining at around the point where it started;. Mobile Adapter Factory }); The GLE also comes with 4MATIC all-wheel-drive to give you more traction and stability during times when the road gets tough.
Advanced Safety Technology —Active parking assist, adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist are among the safety features found in the GLE. Built quality is very good and top safety level in an SUV.
Price and Variants: Priced between ₹88.00 lakh to ₹1.05 crore(Ex-Showroom, India), the Mercedes-Benz GLE is one of the top luxury cars available at a premium price tag in our country too.
What is next in the SUV market of India?
Rise of Electric SUVs
The Indian market is going gaga over environmental concerns and hence the craze for electric vehicles (EVs) are at an all-time high. Auto manufacturers, such as Tata Motors, MG and Mahindra have been foraying heavily into making Electric SUVs to make an impact. Government subsidies, and a soon-to-expand network of EV charging stations means that electric SUVs are becoming increasingly accessible to the average person.
Sustainable and Fuel Efficient
In India too, fuel efficiency is one of the most crucial criteria considering SUV sales. Automakers are turning to hybrids –vehicles that combine conventional internal combustion engines with electric motors for better fuel economy. Consumers demand the sustainable way of life and, in conclusion this trend is expected to increase over time.
High Demand for Feature Laden SUVs
As technology becomes more and more common, Indian buyers expect a car that is digitally seamless())); Connected car technology, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), voice recognition, and smartphone integration are all part of the growing trend for SUVs. Add on the comfort of tech-friendly SUVs which are already becoming more popular day by day, we are speaking about manufacturers trying to give what is cool as soon as possible.
Tips for Maintaining Your SUV
Regular Servicing
Ensuring your SUVs are well-maintained by following the manufacturer service schedule. Performing regular oil changes, replacing the filters and tuning up your engine contributes to a longer lifetime of your vehicle with improved performance.
Maintaining the Engine
Keep up with engine’s health by always monitoring engine oil levels, coolant levels and listen for strange noises. This will ensure regular maintenance of the engine that in turn would avoid any big future costly repair.
Tire Maintenance
Perform Regular Tire Pressure and Tread Checks on Your SUV Correctly inflated tires will not only save gas, but they are also going to make your vehicle handle better and support with safety as well. Getting your tire balance correct can also reduce wear.Rotate the tires on a regular basis to achieve even wear patterns across all four corners of each tyre.
Fluid Checks
Check your brake, power steering and transmission fluids as well as the windshield washer fluid regularly (and make sure to refill with proper amounts of each). The right amount of fluid is essential for the proper workings on a lot of parts in your SUV.
Because so many of us drive cars that run on petrol, here are some top tips for better fuel efficiency.
By such small and simple rules, as a smooth driving style (without sharp acceleration or violent braking), traffic regulations compliance and regular tyre pressure control you can make your SUV consume less fuel. Also, to increase the fuel volume you can use air conditioning wisely and trim excess weight in your vehicle.
Conclusion
SUV Market (April 2020 sales figures):
The SUV market in India has grown by leaps and bounds, providing consumers with a wide variety of choices to meet their exacting requirements. Whether you are looking for a small, economical SUV or seeking luxury and high-performance, there is something available to suit your needs.
What Does The Future Hold For SUVs In India
With EVs coming into play and fuel economy being of utmost importance, the future for SUVs in India seems to be quite positive. Customers have developed new preferences — environmentally friendly, technologically advanced and versatile vehicles which introduced a gamut of innovative models from automakers to satisfy their demands.
Final Words on the Best SUV Selection
Make Sure You Pick the Right SUV for Your Needs: The most important decision to make is choosing an SUV that meets all of your criteria, including budget and aspects like performance, fuel efficiency and anything else you want. Whether you want an affordable family car, a 4×4 to pound the roads of India or whether it is a luxury cruiser that Kothi’s and baniyas can wool in serious coin after spending some more on options – there’s A LOT happening right now.
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