Families in India are generally bigger, and seven-seater vehicles are constantly in demand. Presently, there are a few good options in the 7-seater SUV segment, but next year, things will change quite a bit. A number of major automakers will be launching several new seven-seat SUV models in the country. And if you are looking to buy one, you’ll get all the details here.
Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara 7-seater
Maruti Suzuki is currently working on the development of the Y18, or the Grand Vitara 7-seater model. It will be launched next year and will be based on the current 5-seater Grand Vitara. It will get a slightly changed exterior and a similar interior. As for the engine options, they’ll likely remain the same. Expect to see a price bump of over Rs 1-1.5 lakh compared to the five-seater variant.
Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder 7-seater
Soon after the launch of the Grand Vitara 7-seater, Toyota, which is a strategic partner of Maruti Suzuki, will launch the Urban Cruiser Hyryder 7-seater based on Maruti’s new model. This badge-engineered model will have identical engine options and features. Pricing will also be similar to the Grand Vitara 7-seater.
Kia Carens facelift
Next up on the launch roster is the Kia Carens facelift. The Kia Carens will get an extensive makeover next year. Its changes will include new connected LED DRLs and new LED headlights at the front, along with a new bumper. It will also get new connected C-shaped LED taillights and a new rear bumper. Feature additions will include ADAS Level 2, a 360-degree camera, and a panoramic sunroof.
MG Gloster facelift
The Gloster, which is MG’s top-of-the-line SUV, is also set to get a significant makeover. This time around, the SUV will depart from its rounded design and will boast a much more aggressive and boxy appearance. It will get a new front end, rear design, and a ton of additional features on the inside. It will take its design inspiration from the Maxus D90 sold in international markets by SAIC Motors.
Toyota Fortuner Mild Hybrid
Toyota, along with the Urban Cruiser Hyryder 7-seater, will also be launching the new mild hybrid version of the Fortuner next year. It will get a new diesel mild hybrid powertrain, which is currently being offered in the South African markets. In terms of design, it will mostly remain the same as the current model.
Volkswagen Tayron
The German automotive giant Volkswagen will once again be offering a top-of-the-line SUV, which will be the Tayron 7-seater. This new SUV will compete with the Toyota Fortuner, MG Gloster, and others. It will be offered with a 2.0-litre petrol and 2.0-litre turbo diesel motor in India with mild hybrid assist. The Tayron 7-seater will be brought via the CKD route.
Skoda Kodiaq facelift
Skoda will also be launching its facelifted seven-seater iteration of its already popular premium SUV, Kodiaq, in India. The new Kodiaq will get a new and sharper-looking exterior. Its interior has also been revamped and gets a massive 13-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the middle. Powertrain-wise, it will be offered only with a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine making 190 bhp and 320 Nm of torque.
Tata Safari EV
Tata Motors will be launching a number of new electric vehicles next year. Of these, one will be the Safari EV. The seven-seater SUV is expected to come equipped with a 60-80 kWh battery pack. As for its expected range, it will offer around 500 km on a single full charge. The expected price of the Safari EV is around Rs 30-35 lakh.
Mahindra XEV 7E
Mahindra following the launch of the XEV 9E coupe SUV and the BE 6, will also launch the XEV 7E (XUV700 EV) in India. It will also be based on the INGLO skateboard electric platform and come offered with the same 59 kWh and 79 kWh battery packs. It is expected to make in the first half of next year.