News & Top StoriesThe most lucid spy photos to date show the Skoda Sub-4m SUV once more.
- We were able to get a better look at the subcompact SUV‘s tail light cluster in the most recent spy photo.
- Given that the vehicle was observed with steel wheels covered in black, it seems to be a lower-spec version.
- Highlight features can be a sunroof, ventilated front seats, and a 10-inch touchscreen.
- It is expected to be equipped with a rear parking camera, electronic stability control (ESC), and six airbags for safety.
- Most likely to come with a 6-speed MT or 6-speed AT transmission and a 1-liter turbo-petrol engine choice.
- By 2025, it is anticipated to go on sale in India for Rs 8.50 lakh (ex-showroom).
One of the next nameplates the automaker plans to launch in India is the Skoda sub-4m SUV, which is anticipated to happen in 2025. The same MQB-A0-IN platform that powers the Skoda Slavia and Kushaq will serve as its foundation. Here’s what we noticed when we just met the forthcoming subcompact SUV test mule again.
A Lookalike Of Kushaq
According to the most recent spy photos, the subcompact SUV would resemble the current Kushaq SUV in terms of shape and design. Even with its extensive disguise, the test mule’s split headlights and LED DRLs are discernible in these most lucid spy photos to date. The small SUV from Skoda has the same butterfly Skoda grille as the Kushaq.
The subcompact SUV test mule was equipped with steel wheels covered in black wheel covers. We also got a chance to take a close look at the Skoda subcompact SUV’s LED tail lights, which resemble those on the Kushaq.
Cabin & Attributes
We haven’t had a chance to take a look inside the Skoda subcompact SUV, but we think the steering wheel and infotainment system are the same as those of the Kushaq. It is anticipated to be equipped with a sunroof, automated air conditioning, ventilated front seats, a fully digital driver display, and a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
Six airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), a 360-degree camera, and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) can be included in its safety equipment.
Most Likely To Receive Only One Engine Choice
Only a 1-liter turbo-petrol engine, which is presently available with the Kushaq and Slavia, was allowed for Skoda’s subcompact SUV. With a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual transmission, this engine produces 115 PS and 178 Nm.
Anticipated Cost & Competitors
Early in 2025, the Skoda sub-4m SUV is anticipated to go on sale in India, with costs starting at approximately Rs 8.50 lakh (ex-showroom). Along with the Maruti Fronx and Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor sub-4m crossovers, it will compete with the Tata Nexon, Maruti Brezza, Mahindra XUV 3XO, Kia Sonet, Hyundai Venue, Renault Kiger, and Nissan Magnite.
News & Top StoriesWatch: 360-degree camera comparison between the Mahindra XUV 3XO and Tata Nexon
The Tata Nexon is the main opponent of the Mahindra XUV 3XO, the newest subcompact SUV on the market. Although there are many similarities between these two India-bred vehicles, we also directly contrasted their 360-degree camera features to determine which one does it better when we had both models. What we discovered is as follows:
Execution
Mahindra XUV 3XO and Tata Nexon as in 3D mode, the 360-degree camera setup feed in the XUV 3XO is a little sluggish, and it seems as though the frame rate is lagging as you move the vehicle. In addition, the Mahindra SUV’s camera feed only occupies half of the screen, making it difficult to see details when utilizing this feature. On the other hand, because the 3D figure is translucent, it is simpler to see potential hidden objects beneath the vehicle.
On the Tata Nexon, the camera’s video feed lags less and is significantly smoother. Finding details is significantly simpler because the 3D model fills the entire 10.25-inch screen and travels quickly without stuttering.
After this test, we can state with confidence that the Tata Nexon has a better implementation of this feature, however, there are still certain areas where the 3XO needs to be improved.
Additional Safety Elements
Except for a 360-degree camera, both vehicles have a strong array of safety features. Six airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, hill hold assist, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), blind spot monitor, and ISOFIX child seat anchors are all standard on these vehicles.
However, the Mahindra 3XO is the best because it has all of the Level 2 ADAS functions, including adaptive cruise control, high beam assist, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, and automated emergency braking.
Only the Tata Nexon has been subjected to crash testing as of yet, and it has received a flawless 5-star rating from both Bharat NCAP and Global NCAP. Although the XUV 3XO hasn’t been tested yet, the XUV 300 before its makeover received five stars from the Global NCAP in 2020, and we think the Bharat NCAP test will yield encouraging results soon.
Prices
| Ex-showroom Prices | |
| Tata Nexon | Mahindra XUV 3XO* |
| Rs 8 lakh to Rs 15.80 lakh | Rs 7.49 lakh to Rs 15.49 lakh |
* The Mahindra XUV 3XO is available at introductory prices.
Due to its introductory pricing, the Mahindra XUV 3XO is currently more inexpensive despite the competitive pricing of both cars. Both diesel and turbo-petrol engines are available, with options for manual and automatic transmissions. These vehicles compete with the Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, and Maruti Brezza, among other subcompact SUVs.
News & Top StoriesThe Top 7 Cheapest 7-Seater SUVs in India That Are Ideal For Large Families
India’s growing popularity of SUVs is attested to by the variety of SUV body styles available there, ranging from micro- to full-sized SUVs. Furthermore, three-row SUVs have entered the mainstream market as a result of SUVs’ rising appeal, making sure that big families may still enjoy SUVs.
Seating capacity is one of the most important requirements in a country as diverse as India, where client needs differ greatly. With configurations ranging from four to seven seats, SUVs in India satisfy this need by offering a wide range of options across several sectors. We have compiled a list of the seven most reasonably priced 7-seater SUV alternatives available in India.
Mahindra Bolero Neo: Rs 9.95 lakh
In India, the most reasonably priced seven-seater SUV on the market is the Mahindra Bolero Neo. The base N4 model, which costs Rs 9.95 lakh, has a 1.5-liter diesel engine that produces 100 PS and 260 Nm of torque. It is coupled to a 5-speed manual gearbox. Additionally, the top-tier models include a mechanical locking differential at the back.
Mahindra Bolero: Rs 9.98 lakh
After more than 20 years of sales in the nation, consumers seeking a tough substitute for comparably priced monocoque SUVs have continued to choose the Mahindra Bolero. The most recent model of the seven-seat Bolero is priced at Rs 9.98 lakh. Its 1.5-liter diesel engine produces 210 Nm and 76 PS. It is connected to a manual 5-speed transmission. Comparing the Bolero to its rivals, though, shows how outdated it has become, and a generational redesign is anticipated for the SUV by 2026.
Citroen C3 Aircross: Rs 11.96 lakh
In and of itself, the Citroen C3 Aircross is a rather special offering. Citroen went above and beyond by providing the option of two additional seats in the rear while maintaining affordable pricing, something that other compact SUV manufacturers only provide in 5-seater configurations. The 7-seater is the most reasonably priced model on the list, with a starting price of Rs 11.96 lakh, while the 5-seater variations start at Rs 9.99 lakh. Its 1.2-liter turbo-petrol engine produces 110 horsepower and 206 torque. Either a 6-speed torque converter transmission or a 6-speed manual gearbox is included.
Mahindra Scorpio Classic: Rs 13.59 lakh
The automaker decided to continue selling the second-generation Mahindra Scorpio alongside the new SUV, albeit with certain modifications and a new moniker (Scorpio Classic), even after the third-generation model was introduced as the Scorpio N in India. To accommodate various buyer profiles, the older generation Scorpio is still available for purchase. There are only two models with seven and nine seats, which makes things simpler. A 2.2-liter diesel engine producing 300 Nm and 132 PS powers it. The manual transmission has six speeds.
Mahindra Scorpio N: Rs 13.85 lakh
The third generation of the Mahindra Scorpio brand, the Scorpio N, has better powertrains and additional features. The layouts with six and seven seats are likewise available. The base price of the seven-seater Scorpio N is Rs 13.85 lakh. You can choose between a 2.0-liter turbo-petrol engine (203 PS/380 Nm) and a 2.2-liter diesel engine (132 PS/300 Nm) at this pricing. Rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) are the other two drivetrain options.
Tata Safari: Rs 16.19 lakh
In our market, the automaker’s premier three-row vehicle is the Tata Safari. Prices for it start at Rs 16.19 lakh and it comes in 6- and 7-seater versions. Its 2-liter diesel engine produces 350 Nm and 170 PS. It can be had with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission, which both provide the front wheels with power. Although it is not currently available, a gasoline engine is anticipated to be added shortly. Additionally, an electric vehicle (EV) version of the SUV is being developed, with a 2025 debut anticipated.
Hyundai Alcazar: Rs 16.78 lakh
When seeking a larger SUV that can accommodate six or seven people, consider the Hyundai Alcazar instead of the Creta. A 1.5-liter turbo-petrol engine (160 PS / 253 Nm) mated to a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DCT (dual-clutch automatic transmission) and a 1.5-liter diesel engine (116 PS / 250 Nm) mated to a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission are the two engine options available.
The MG Hector Plus (Rs 17 lakh), the 5-door Force Gurkha (Rs 18 lakh), and the Mahindra XUV700 (Rs 16.89 lakh) were other SUVs that were nearly as good but did not make the list.
News & Top StoriesCurrently, Mahindra XUV 3XO Petrol Variants Make Up Almost 70% Of All Bookings.
- In April 2024, Mahindra unveiled the XUV 3XO, a facelifted version of the XUV 300.
- It comes with a choice of 1.5-liter diesel and 1.2-liter turbo-petrol engines, each paired with an automatic transmission.
- Compared to diesel versions, petrol versions can be purchased for up to Rs 1.6 lakh less.
- The Mahindra SUV‘s starting pricing (ex-showroom, nationwide) ranges from Rs 7.49 lakh to Rs 15.49 lakh.
The Mahindra XUV 3XO, a facelifted version of the XUV300 SUV, was released at the end of April 2024. On May 15, the automaker began accepting reservations for the new SUV; it was subsequently disclosed that it had received 50,000 orders in the first hour. Top Mahindra executives also provided some information on the orders they have received for the new SUV during a recent investor meeting.
Increased Demand for Petrol
In contrast to the reputation of Mahindra SUVs, according to Mahindra spokespeople, the petrol models of the XUV 3XO make up almost 70% of all reservations made up to this point. It’s hardly shocking, considering that even the XUV300’s sales distribution over time has been fairly evenly split between the two fuel kinds. About 45% of SUV sales in January 2024 were of the gasoline variety, with the diesel and electric (XUV400) versions accounting for the remaining 55%.
The fact that the petrol versions are up to Rs 1.6 lakh less expensive than their diesel counterparts is another reason why there is probably more demand for them. This can play a big role in the decision-making process for those looking to purchase a sub-4 million SUV as opposed to those choosing larger and more expensive Mahindra SUVs like the Thar, Scorpio N, or even XUV700.
A Modernized Pair of Engines
Mahindra decided to keep supplying its sub-4 million SUV with diesel and petrol powertrains along with the makeover, but on its petrol engines, it swapped out the AMT automatic for a “proper” torque converter unit. Here are some of the available engine-gearbox combinations:
| Specification | 1.2-litre turbo-petrol | 1.2-litre TGDi turbo-petrol | 1.5-litre diesel |
| Power | 112 PS | 130 PS | 117 PS |
| Torque | 200 Nm | Up to 250 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed MT, 6-speed AT | MT and AT six-speeds | 6-speed MT, 6-speed AMT |
| Claimed Mileage | 18.89 kmpl, 17.96 kmpl | 20.1 kmpl, 18.2 kmpl | 20.6 kmpl, 21.2 kmpl |
Three drive modes are also available for the higher-spec petrol-automatic variants: Zip, Zap, and Zoom. Perhaps the popularity of the petrol-powered 3XO models has also been attributed to the option of a more sophisticated automatic powertrain combined with segment-leading performance.
Cost Range and Rivals
The starting pricing of the Mahindra XUV 3XO (ex-showroom, all of India) ranges from Rs 7.49 lakh to Rs 15.49 lakh. Its rivals include the Nissan Magnite, Hyundai Venue, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Kia Sonet, Tata Nexon, Renault Kiger, and the soon-to-be Skoda sub-4m SUV. Another option for sub-4 million crossovers like the Maruti Fronx and Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor is the Mahindra SUV.
News & Top StoriesSpy photos of the facelifted Kia Carens appear online
- Early in 2022, Kia introduced the Carens MPV in India.
- Alloy wheels, a revised grille, and new lighting are anticipated for the facelifted model.
- Anticipated to keep the current model‘s dashboard layout and dual-tone look.
- A 360-degree camera, ADAS, and dual-zone air conditioning could be among the new amenities on board.
- Most likely to come with the same set of transmissions and the same gasoline and diesel engines as the current model.
- 2025 is the anticipated introduction year in India; an EV version will follow after that year.
Since early 2022, the Kia Carens have been offered for sale in India as a more expensive and spacious substitute for the Maruti Ertiga. It has received updates in the form of new models and feature enhancements, but the recently released collection of foreign espionage photos suggests that it may soon get a proper facelift abroad.
Notable Changes
We anticipate some adjustments to be made to the exterior design of the facelifted Carens, however, it is difficult to identify for sure what has changed just yet (because of the thick camouflage). Anticipate these to be upgraded connected LED tail lights that now mimic those on the new Sonet, a reworked grille and alloy wheels, and a new headlamp configuration.
Anticipated Seat and Amenity Modifications
This collection of spy photos does not feature the facelifted Carens cabin. We anticipate Kia will keep the same 6- and 7-seat arrangements in addition to the dual-tone cabin motif. Having said that, the only significant modification might be new seat coverings and perhaps an upgraded climate control panel.
Even though the Carens is currently a well-equipped MPV, it may benefit from a panoramic sunroof and dual-zone air conditioning to further enhance its upscale interior. It already has a sunroof, wireless phone charging, ventilated front seats, and two 10.25-inch screens (one for infotainment and the other for instruments).
Regarding security, we anticipate that Kia will equip the redesigned MPV with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and a 360-degree camera. Six airbags are standard on all Carens models that are currently available in India, along with a tire pressure monitoring system, front and rear parking sensors, and a rear parking camera.
An assortment of powertrains
We think Kia will keep offering the facelifted Carens with the same engine options as the existing model, as it was intended for India. It currently has the following options for the engine and gearbox:
| Specification | 1.5-litre N/A Petrol | 1.5-litre Turbo-petrol | 1.5-litre Diesel |
| Power | 115 PS | 160 PS | 116 PS |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 253 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed MT | 6-speed iMT*, 7-speed DCT^ | 6-speed MT, 6-speed iMT, 6-speed AT |
Anticipated Release Date And Cost
Sometime in 2025, the redesigned Kia Carens is anticipated to go on sale in India; it will probably cost more than the outgoing model. To give you an idea, the ex-showroom pricing of the Carens, in its current specification, ranges from Rs 10.52 lakh to Rs 19.67 lakh. The facelifted MPV will continue to compete against the Maruti XL6, Toyota Rumion, and Toyota Innova Crysta in addition to the Maruti Ertiga. It will also function as a reasonably priced substitute for the Maruti Invicto and Toyota Innova Hycross.
News & Top StoriesThe launch of the new Maruti Fronx Delta Plus (O) variant lowers the cost of six airbags.
- Maruti Compared to the standard Delta Plus version, it comes with six airbags and a puncture repair kit.
- The cost of the six airbags with the Fronx is now Rs 1.6 lakh less than it was before the release of these new versions.
- The new Delta Plus (O) model from Maruti is available with an AMT or manual transmission.
- Delta Plus (O) is more expensive than the standard version by Rs 15,000 for both manual and automated models.
In April 2023, Maruti Fronx made its debut as a subcompact crossover in India. Up until now, Maruti has provided the Fronx in the following five general variants: Zeta, Alpha, Delta, Delta+, and Sigma. It now has an extra Delta Plus (O) type, though, and it’s limited to the 1.2-liter normally aspirated engine. Before delving into additional information, let us examine the costs of the recently released variations.
| Existing Variants | New Variants | Difference |
| Delta Plus MT- Rs 8.78 lakh | Delta Plus (O) MT – Rs 8.93 lakh | + Rs 15,000 |
| Delta Plus AMT – Rs 9.28 lakh | Delta Plus (O) AMT – Rs 9.43 lakh | + Rs 15,000 |
Optional features for the new Delta Plus (O) grade include a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT. Here, trims—manual and automatic—cost an additional Rs 15,,000.
Modernized Safety
The addition of six airbags and a puncture repair kit—features not included in the standard Delta Plus variant—to the Fronx is one of its most significant changes. It is significant to remember that the Zeta model, which costs Rs 10.56 lakh (ex-showroom), was the previous model that included the six airbags. With the release of the new Delta Plus (O) model, this functionality is now available for Rs 1.6 lakh less than it was previously.
Additional Features Available
The Fronx Delta Plus (O) model boasts a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 4-speaker sound system, automated climate control, and an IRVM (internal rearview mirror) that works both during the day and at night.
The Fronx is equipped with additional safety features such as ISOFIX child seat anchorage, electronic stability control (ESC), hill hold assist, seatbelt reminder for every seat, and 3-point seatbelts for every seat.
Powertrain
The specifications of the 1.2-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine that powers the Fronx Delta Plus (O) variant are listed below:
| Engine | 1.2-litre petrol |
| Power | 90 PS |
| Torque | 113 Nm |
| Transmission | 5-speed MT, 5-speed AMT |
The new Delta Plus (O) type, which has more safety features, is not equipped with the 1-liter turbo-petrol engine (100 PS / 148 Nm) that is an option for the ordinary Delta Plus variant.
Competitors
While it can be considered an alternative to the, the Maruti Fronx is a direct competitor of the Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor. small SUVs, such as the Nissan Magnite, Renault Kiger, Maruti Brezza, and Tata Nexon.