As the demand for SUVs and MPVs continues to surge in India, several carmakers have witnessed increased production of their popular models. In the first 10 months of FY2024 (April-January), the utility vehicle (UV) segment has seen remarkable growth, with a total of 20,61,075 units sold, reflecting a 25 percent year-on-year increase.
Top Contenders for Bestselling SUV
Eight models have stood out, with each surpassing 1,00,000 units in sales since April 2023. These include Maruti Suzuki’s Brezza, Ertiga, and Fronx, Hyundai’s Creta and Venue, Tata Motors’ Nexon and Punch, and Mahindra’s Scorpio. Together, these models contribute to approximately 48 percent of the total 2 million UVs sold during the same period.
Three-way Battle for Supremacy
The Tata Nexon, Maruti Brezza, and Hyundai Creta have emerged as the top contenders for the title of India’s bestselling SUV in FY2024. With two months remaining in the fiscal year, the competition for the top spot is intense.
Nexon: Aiming for a Third Consecutive Year at the Top
As of January 2024, the Tata Nexon leads the race with estimated wholesales of 1,43,244 units. Having secured the title in FY2022 and FY2023, the Nexon aims to maintain its dominance. Launched in September 2017, it has sold a remarkable 6,29,083 units, contributing significantly to Tata Motors’ passenger vehicle sales.
The Nexon’s success can be attributed to Tata Motors’ multi-fuel strategy, offering 43 variants across petrol, diesel, and electric options. Recent achievements, such as a 5-star GNCAP crash test rating and price reductions for the Nexon EV, are expected to further boost sales.
Brezza: Eyeing a Comeback
The Maruti Brezza, a former bestselling SUV for four consecutive years, is striving to regain its crown. With estimated wholesales of 1,39,518 units, the Brezza faces tough competition from the Nexon. Noteworthy is its achievement of surpassing one million sales in India, accelerated by the introduction of the Brezza CNG variant in March 2023.
Creta: Making Waves in the Midsize SUV Segment
The Hyundai Creta, India’s bestselling midsize SUV, has sold 1,31,039 units in the first 10 months of FY2024. While trailing behind the Nexon and Brezza, the Creta has consistently demonstrated strong demand. Hyundai aims to increase its SUV contribution to total volumes and has garnered over 51,000 bookings for the new Creta.
The Unpredictable Finish
With the fiscal year’s end approaching, the race for the top SUV title remains unpredictable. February and March 2024 wholesales will determine which model secures the crown. Adding to the suspense is the Tata Punch, an emerging challenger with petrol, CNG, and electric variants. The SUV market’s dynamics promise an exciting conclusion to FY2024. Stay tuned for updates.
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