As the festive season approaches, the Indian automobile market is gearing up for an array of exciting new car launches. Starting from July, luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Mini will introduce their latest models, while mass-market players like Mahindra, Hyundai, and Nissan are also set to roll out new vehicles. Here’s a closer look at some of the upcoming launches:
Mercedes-Benz EQA
Mercedes-Benz is set to launch its fourth electric vehicle in India, the EQA, on July 8. This entry-level e-SUV is expected to be priced slightly lower than the EQB, which costs Rs 77.75 lakh. Internationally, the EQA is available in four variants: EQA 250, EQA 250+, EQA 300 4Matic, and EQA 350 4Matic. The EQA 250+ features a 70.5kWh battery with a range of up to 560km, while the other variants have a 66.5kWh battery offering a maximum range of 528km. In India, the EQA will compete with the Volvo XC40 Recharge and the BMW iX1.
BMW 5 Series LWB
BMW will announce the prices for the new 5 Series Long Wheelbase (LWB) sedan on July 24. This model will replace the current 5 Series and 6 Series GT. The new 5 Series LWB, measuring 5,175mm in length, 1,900mm in width, and 1,520mm in height, with a 3,105mm wheelbase, will be the largest car in its segment. Initially, it will be available in the 530Li M Sport variant. Given its repositioning, it is expected to be priced higher than the current 6 Series GT, which ranges from Rs 73.5 lakh to Rs 78.9 lakh.
Mini Cooper S
The new-generation Mini Cooper S hatchback will debut on July 8 with a petrol powertrain, followed by an all-electric SE version later in the year. The Cooper S will feature a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine producing 204hp and 300Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The new model is expected to be slightly more expensive than the outgoing Cooper S, priced at Rs 42.70 lakh (ex-showroom).
Mini Countryman Electric
Launching alongside the new Cooper S, the new-generation Mini Countryman Electric will share its platform with the BMW iX1. This electric SUV offers more interior space than its predecessor, with an additional 130mm of legroom. Internationally, it is available with two powertrains: a single-motor, front-wheel-drive version with 204hp and 250Nm, and a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive version with 313hp and 494Nm. Both versions feature a 66.45kWh battery, with ranges of 462km and 433km, respectively. The all-electric Countryman is expected to be priced higher than the petrol variant, which starts at Rs 48.10 lakh (ex-showroom).
Nissan X-Trail
The Nissan X-Trail, a premium SUV available in 5-seater and 7-seater configurations, is expected to launch in India soon. It will feature a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 204hp and 305Nm, paired with a CVT gearbox. While the drivetrain options are yet to be confirmed, the X-Trail will serve as a stop-gap solution until Nissan introduces new models from 2025 onwards.
Mahindra Thar 5-Door
Mahindra’s highly anticipated Thar 5-door, potentially named Thar Armada, is expected to launch in the coming months. It will offer a longer wheelbase than the existing Thar, providing more cabin space and luggage capacity. The 5-door Thar will come with multiple powertrain options, including a 1.5-litre diesel, a 2.0-litre petrol, and a 2.2-litre diesel, each available with both manual and automatic transmissions. The drivetrain configurations will include 4×2 and 4×4 options.
Hyundai Alcazar Facelift
Hyundai is set to launch the Alcazar facelift in September. The updated model will feature styling cues from the Creta facelift, along with enhancements like a new dashboard with connected digital displays, ADAS, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. The Alcazar facelift will continue with the 1.5-litre turbo-petrol (160hp) and 1.5-litre diesel (115hp) engines, available with manual and automatic gearbox options.
Tata Curvv EV
The Tata Curvv EV, showcased in a near-production form at the Bharat Mobility Expo, is slated for a launch between July and September 2024. Sharing its platform with the Nexon, the Curvv EV will feature a unique design and is expected to offer a range of 450-500km. It will compete with the MG ZS EV and the upcoming Hyundai Creta EV.
Maruti Suzuki Dzire
The new-generation Maruti Dzire, expected to launch in September, has been spotted testing multiple times. It will feature a new rear design, unique bumpers, alloy wheels, and headlamps. Inside, the dashboard will resemble the Swift, but with added features like a single-pane sunroof. The new Dzire will continue with the 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine from the Swift, paired with 5-speed manual and AMT gearboxes.
Kia EV9
Kia will launch the EV9, a large electric SUV similar in size to a Range Rover, around August-September. The EV9 will feature advanced technology, including a digital panel with three screens. It will be powered by a 99.8kWh battery with a WLTP range of up to 563km. The EV9 will be available in rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions, with the latter featuring two 192hp motors. As a CBU import, the EV9 is expected to be priced above Rs 1 crore.
Next-Gen Kia Carnival
The fourth-generation Kia Carnival, which was showcased at Auto Expo 2023, will be launched in a facelifted form in August-September. The new Carnival will feature a rugged design and a more minimalistic interior with two 12.3-inch displays. It will continue with the 201hp, 2.2-litre diesel engine and will be available in multiple seating configurations, including 7, 9, and 11 seats.
Citroen Basalt
Citroen’s Basalt, based on the C3 Aircross platform, is expected to launch in September. It will feature a coupe-like roofline and a well-equipped interior with automatic climate control, cruise control, wireless charging, push-button start, and keyless entry. The Basalt will be powered by a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 110hp and 205Nm, paired with a 6-speed manual or an optional 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox.
These upcoming launches promise a vibrant and diverse selection of vehicles, catering to a wide range of preferences and budgets in the Indian market.
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