In India, the car market is on a decline since the beginning of year as the demand for vehicles in different segments has fallen drastically. However, in this repressive phase, the main thrust is coming from the utility vehicle segment, which is accounting for a significant market share as of now. Owing to this, almost every car maker is planning to tap into the potential of respective segment. Talking about the leading passenger car maker of India, Maruti Suzuki, it will introduce its compact SUV that will be based on the XA Alpha concept, which was showcased at the previously held Auto Expo. While on the other hand, Nissan is assessing its options to introduce Qashqai in the country. Touted as a crossover utility vehicle, Qashqai is currently offered in major auto markets across the globe. The expected launch of both of these vehicles is presumed to be in the latter stage of 2014.
According to industry experts, the upcoming cars of both companies are expected to garner the attention of Indian buyers. As reported, the utility vehicle segment would become all more competitive once these cars arrive in Indian auto market. Coming to the technical specification of both these vehicles, Maruti Suzuki XA Alpha would be offered in both petrol and diesel engine options. The petrol version is likely to get the 1.2-litre K-Series unit while the other version is likely to incorporate the tried and tested 1.3-litre Multijet mill of Fiat. On the other hand, Nissan Qashqai might be offered in India with a 2.0-litre diesel powertrain. However, in major markets the car is also available in low-specification engine options but the company might refrain them in India as the purpose of introducing Terrano would be defeated. The crossover of Nissan is believed to be offered in two-wheel drive and all-wheel drive variants at the time of launch; however nothing is confirmed as of now.
Reportedly, Maruti Suzuki XA Alpha would be offered with aplenty of safety equipment that include Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and dual airbags. Also to mention, features like automatic climate control system with rear air-conditioning vents, electrically adjustable outside mirrors and steering mounted audio controls might be present in XA Alpha. While for Qashqai, Nissan might give away automatic climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, engine start-stop button, satellite navigation, park assist and moving object detection system.
As per reports, the next generation Qashqai will be based on the Common Module Family (CMF) platform, deriving much of its appearance from X-Trail. With a protruding front fascia that hold running LED lamps, the look of Qashqai bears similarities to the upcoming X-Trail model. Coming to Maruti Suzuki XA Alpha, it might draw cues from the compact SUV concept showcased by the company in which the design was largely based on the monocoque frame. Also, reports have suggested that the production version of Maruti Suzuki XA Alpha might be based on the same design philosophy.
