Seven compact SUVs likely in next 12 months from Maruti, Renault, Volkswagen, Tata and others

India's compact SUV market is likely to see major churn in the next 12 months. Maruti Suzuki, Kia, Tata Motors, Mahindra, Renault, Hyundai and Volkswagen are preparing to launch new or updated SUVs. Some will be entirely new vehicles, while others will be next-generation versions of popular models. Preparations have begun for new-generation versions of the Maruti Fronx, Kia Sonet and Tata Nexon.

First is the Maruti Suzuki Fronx facelift. The company has begun road tests of the updated Fronx. It could arrive in early 2027. A new grille, rear disc brakes and ADAS sensors are likely. A CNG option may be offered along with the petrol engine.

The new Kia Sonet is likely to arrive in 2027. Built on the K1 platform, the SUV could get more space for rear-seat passengers, a new dashboard and larger digital displays. Level 2 ADAS may also be offered.

The next-generation Tata Nexon is reported to have been given the codename "Garud". It could reach the market by mid-2027. A new design, an improved X1 architecture and a completely redone cabin are expected. Petrol and diesel engine options may continue.

Mahindra's Vision S concept will now come as a production model. It could arrive in early 2027. The boxy wheel arches and tall SUV design are likely to be retained. It could be the first SUV built on the NU_IQ monocoque architecture.

The Renault Bridger is a sub-4 metre SUV and could enter production by the end of 2027. It will be launched in India first, and production will be in Chennai. It could come in three variants: petrol, hybrid and electric.

Hyundai's small electric SUV, codenamed HE1i, could go on sale in the next 3 months. It is expected to offer two battery packs and a claimed range of more than 450 km. A boxy design suited to Indian roads and greater use of local parts could be its strengths.

Seventh is Volkswagen's new compact SUV, which will be positioned below the Taigun. Based on the MQB-A0-IN platform, the model is likely to get a 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine. The name "Terra" may be used. The company will focus on exports as well as the Indian market.

Among these, the electric SUV will be the Hyundai HE1i. The Renault Bridger is also likely to get an electric version. Some models could arrive in the next 3 months, while some SUVs from Maruti, Kia, Mahindra, Tata and Renault could reach the market in 2027.