India is emerging as the most promising car market, which is attracting many auto majors from different corners of the globe. As per reports, 13 new Sports Utility Vehicles will be introduced in India in the year 2012. Mr. Shashank Srivastava, chief general manager (marketing) of Maruti Suzuki India confirms that in the last few years, the demand for SUVs in India has increased substantially. Srivastava said that although Maruti Suzuki India has no contribution to MPV and SUV segment of India, things will change with the launch of Maruti XA Alpha SUV.
Nissan-Renault is also geared up to introduce two SUVs in India in 2012 out of which one will be the Duster carrying a price tag of Rs. 10 lacs. According to sources, Tata Motors plans to introduce the faclifted version of Safari. The new SUV named as Tata Safari Storme will be introduced this year.
The leader of India’s SUV segment Mahindra and Mahindra has been dominating the market by its Thar, Scorpio, and XUV 500. Now the company is setting up a production unit to assemble its Korando C and Rexton. Both these SUVs will be powered by 2.0 litre diesel engine.
Volkswagen has not disclosed any date for the launch of its new Touareg but it is anticipated that the SUV will be introduced this year. The SUV will be loaded with 2967 cc V6 diesel engine capable of generating power of 225 bhp. New Volkswagen Touareg will be an expensive purchase as it may carry a price tag of Rs. 51.85 lacs.
Even Audi is planning to launch its Q3 in India, which was unveiled at the 2102 Geneva Motor Show. Rumours are on air that the new SUV will be launched by June 2012. Ford EcoSport, which is running successfully in Brazil, will now be introduced in India. This SUV, which already made its presence at the recently held Delhi Auto Expo, will be price around Rs. 9 lacs to Rs. 12 lacs.
As per reports, the Honda will introduce the CRV 2012 this year, which will carry a 2354cc diesel engine. The Chevrolet Captiva facelift version will be introduced in 2012 and its price may range between Rs. 20 lacs to Rs. 22 lacs. Instead of 2.0 litre motor, the new SUV will have 2.2 litre diesel engine mated with six-speed automatic gearbox
BMW is all set to launch its X3 SUV, which is expected to be assembled in India. The upcoming SUV may carry new twin power turbo four cylinder 1997 cc engine. It will have a top speed of 208 kmph and can touch 100 kmph in 6.5 seconds.
The largest exporter of India and second largest passenger car maker, Hyundai has plans to introduce the Tucson. Also known as Hyundai ix35, the Tucson will be equipped with 17 inches of alloy wheels, effectual air conditioning system, and panoramic sunroof. General Motors, the American automobile giant will also contribute towards the Indian SUV segment. As per reports, it will launch the Chevrolet TrailBlazer, which will feature 2.8-litre Duramax turbo diesel engine. The Indian car market will also have the Mercedes Benz ML Class SUV by mid 2012. Assembling of this SUV will be done at the Chakan unit of the company.
