2023 promises to be a big year for SUV launches, with at least ten models starting under Rs 20 lakh.
In recent years, carmakers have introduced or expanded their SUV portfolio in India, and 2023 will be no exception. Many brands, including Tata, Maruti, and Mahindra, are expected to launch a variety of SUVs, including a couple of EVs.
Here’s a look at the list of SUVs expected under Rs 20 lakh coming out in 2023:
1. Facelifted MG Hector & Hector Plus
Expected Price: Rs 18 lakh (Hector), Rs 15 lakh (Hector Plus)
According to recent sightings of their respective test mules, MG is working on introducing the facelifted Hector and Hector Plus. Both SUVs will most likely receive cosmetic upgrades over their current iterations, as well as a more upscale cabin and an extensive feature list. The MG SUV duo will retain the same set of petrol and diesel engines found in the current models. MG will continue to sell the current Hector alongside the facelifted model.
2. Maruti Suzuki Jimny
Expected Price: Rs 10 lakh
After a long wait, Maruti Suzuki has confirmed that it will bring its popular off-roader, the Jimny, to India. Almost, anyway. Although the SUV was recently spotted undisguised, possibly during a television commercial (TVC) shoot, a proper look at it is expected at the upcoming Auto Expo 2023. The SUV, which will be available in a five-door version here, will most likely be powered by the 1.5-litre mild-hybrid powertrain found in the new Brezza and Grand Vitara, with both five-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmission options.
3. Facelifted Tata Harrier And Safari
Expected Price: Rs 15 lakh (Harrier), Rs 16 lakh (Safari)
The Tata Harrier has been on the market since 2019, and the time has come for the automaker to give it a significant mid-life refresh. Along with the Harrier, Tata is expected to introduce a facelifted Safari, both of which are expected to debut at the upcoming auto show. While the two SUVs will retain some design differences following the facelift, they will share a common 2-litre diesel engine with both six-speed manual and automatic transmissions.
4. 5-door Mahindra Thar
Expected Price: Rs 15 lakh
For those seeking a more family-friendly version of the Mahindra Thar, the Indian automaker is preparing a longer-wheelbase version of the SUV for our markets. Multiple spy shots have revealed some similarities and differences between it and its three-door counterpart, while Mahindra is also expected to provide some extra creature comforts. It will be available with both petrol and diesel engines, as well as manual and automatic transmissions. Mahindra will offer both 4×2 and 4×4 drivetrains. We’ve also written about why we think the carmaker might call it the ‘Armada.’
5. Facelifted Hyundai Creta
Expected Price: Rs 10.50 lakh
The facelifted Hyundai Creta, which will be sold in India, was first seen at the Indonesia Motor Show in late 2021. The design of the SUV has become more in line with the new-generation Tucson, and it has even borrowed a few features from the latter. In terms of powertrains, we don’t expect any changes from the current model.
6. Facelifted Kia Seltos
Expected Price: Rs 10 lakh
Kia has unveiled the facelifted Seltos in a number of international markets but has yet to reveal the India-spec model. The updated SUV is expected to be revealed at the upcoming Auto Expo 2023, followed by a launch later that year. The styling and features of the facelifted Kia Seltos have been improved over the previous model, including advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and dual displays. While the 1.5-litre petrol and diesel engines from the current model are likely to be retained, Kia may replace the SUV’s 1.4-litre turbo-petrol unit with a more powerful 1.5-litre turbo option.
7. Honda SUV
Expected Price: Rs 10.5 lakh
Finally, after a long absence from the SUV market in India, Honda has announced the development of an SUV that we believe will fit in the compact segment. The Hyundai Creta and Maruti Grand Vitara-rivaling SUV will most likely be the third model in its class to offer a powerful hybrid engine. We anticipate Honda to equip its compact SUV with City Hybrid-like advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) technology.
8. Mahindra XUV400
Expected Price: Rs 17 lakh
Mahindra is preparing to launch its first long-range EV, an electrified XUV300 called the ‘XUV400,’ in early 2023. It comes with a 39.4kWh battery pack with a claimed range of 456km. Although it includes all of the basic equipment you’d expect at its expected price range of Rs 17 lakh to Rs 20 lakh, it fails to impress. However, it is capable of charging its battery pack from 0 to 80 percent in around 50 minutes using a 50kW DC fast charger.
9. Maruti Baleno-based SUV
Expected Price: Rs 8 lakh
The Baleno-based SUV will be one of the new models on display at Maruti’s expo pavilion. It has been spotted several times with camouflage, revealing design similarities with the Grand Vitara and a feature list that is nearly identical to the premium hatchback. Maruti’s decision to develop this crossover SUV could be to fill the gap in its Arena lineup between the S-Presso and Brezza.
10. Tata Punch EV
Expected Price: Rs 12 lakh
Tata recently confirmed that the Punch EV project has received internal approval. The Punch EV will be Tata’s fourth electric vehicle, joining the Nexon EV (Prime and Max), Tigor EV, and Tiago EV. The all-electric Punch will be the first Tata vehicle to use the ALFA ARC platform. We anticipate that it will have two battery pack options and a claimed range of 300-350km.
These are the ten SUVs that we expect to see on Indian roads in 2023, with prices starting under Rs 20 lakh. However, there may be a few surprises, such as the Hyundai micro SUV and the Mahindra Bolero Neo Plus, which could join this list later in the year. Which model has piqued your interest the most? Leave your choices in the comments.
