2019 will get off to a great start courtesy of the incoming three brand new SUVs in different segments
With 2018 almost done and dusted, carmakers are preparing for a fresh start to the new year. Chief among which Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra and Nissan Motor India are unleashing some heavyweights across different SUV segments. They are arguably the most anticipated launches in recent times in the whole of the industry as 2019 shapes up to be a thrilling year already.
1. Tata Harrier
We have dealt with Harrier for so long since it has the potential to shake up the segment. The first Tata vehicle to be based on Impact Design 2.0 is also the maiden model to sit on OMEGA platform derived from Land Rover’s supple D8 architecture. The Harrier has a more imposing stance compared to its competitors such as Hyundai Creta and Jeep Compass and it will be priced between Rs. 16-21 lakh (on-road).
The monocoque SUV is powered by a 2.0-litre Kryotec four-cylinder diesel engine developing 140 PS and 350 Nm, and is mated to a six-speed manual transmission. Bookings can be made across authorised dealerships for initial token of Rs. 30,000 as deliveries will commence in January 2019 following its official launch in the middle of the month. Tata has started promoting Harrier by conducting various roadshows across the country.
2. Nissan Kicks
The Tata Harrier will have an imminent new rival upon its debut as Nissan will also be introducing its flagship Kicks premium SUV around mid-January. The Kicks is based on the updated version of the proven M0 platform and has several amenities like segment-first 360 camera to back up its premium nature. It uses the same powertrain options from Terrano but refined for good measure.
The India-spec Kicks has bigger dimensions than the model sold elsewhere to ensure spacious cabin for the occupants and has subtle exterior updates to add more dynamism compared to its global sibling. Expected to be priced between Rs. 9.5 lakh and Rs. 16 lakh (ex-showroom), the Kicks has all the essentials to be a successful product within Nissan’s domestic lineup.
3. Mahindra XUV300
Mahindra has long been pursuing success in the sub-four-metre SUV segment but TUV300, Quanto and NuvoSport could not just live up to the expectations. Determined not to give in, Mahindra is readying the XUV300, the brand’s most promising SUV in recent years, for launch in the first half of February! The XUV300 is the first monocoque sub-4m SUV from the homegrown UV maker.
Based on SsangYong Tivoli’s X100 platform, the XUV300 shares plenty of design with its bigger XUV500 sibling. The XUV300 comes with several segment first features like seven airbags, dual-zone automatic climate control, and disc brakes on all four wheels. As Mahindra is wary of the fierce rivalry from Vitara Brezza, Nexon and EcoSport, it is presenting the XUV300 with most powerful engine in its class.
The 1.5-litre D15 diesel engine debuted in the Marazzo should produce 123 PS and 300 Nm, and initially, it will be connected to a six-speed manual transmission. The XUV300 will also have several modern equipments like touchscreen infotainment system, electric sunroof and so on. It will be aggressively positioned in the market between Rs. 7 lakh and Rs. 11 lakh (ex-showroom).