Targeted customers of the rapidly expanding utility vehicle segment are now frequently shifting from 5-seater compact vehicles to mid-sized 6/7-seater models, mainly due to their larger size and greater practicality. Currently, this class comprises several class-leading SUVs and MPVs such as Maruti Ertiga, XL6, MG Hector Plus, Mahindra Marazzo, XUV500, Tata Safari, Hyundai Alcazar, and the recently launched Mahindra Bolero Neo. Soon a couple of new models will also foray into the segment. So, here we have compiled a list of five highly anticipated new three-row SUVs and MPVs coming up in India in FY 2021-2022: –
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1. Mahindra XUV700
- Expected Launch: – October 2, 2021 (world premiere could take place on 15th August 2021)
- Expected Price Range: – Rs 15.5 lakh to Rs 22 lakh (ex-showroom)
The XUV700 is one of the most exciting launches of 2021. It will come as a replacement for the aging XUV500. The brand is expected to unveil the SUV on the upcoming Independence Day; however, its launch is suspected on Gandhi Jayanti. It is expected to be the most feature-rich SUV of its class with several segment-leading features like flush-fitting smart door handles, personalized safety alerts, auto booster headlamps, segment's largest panoramic sunroof, smart air filter technology, and level-1 radar-based ADAS technology with active safety features like driver drowsiness detection and more.
The new Mahindra XUV700 will be offered with two engine options – 197PS 2.0-liter mStallion turbocharged petrol and 182PS 2.2-liter mHawk turbo-diesel, making it the most powerful offering of its category. The engines are also likely to get a mild hybrid system. Both powertrains will be available with manual and automatic transmissions choices. Also on offer could be a segment's first all-wheel-drivetrain system with select variants.
2. Next-Gen Mahindra Scorpio
- Expected Launch: – Early 2022
- Expected Price Range: – Rs 12.5 lakh to Rs 18 lakh (ex-showroom)
Next on the list is another Mahindra SUV, the next-gen Scorpio, which is likely to make its debut in the first quarter of 2022. It will be based on the second-gen Mahindra Thar's new ladder frame chassis and will share a lot of resemblance with the off-roader. That said, the new Scorpio will also be available with the same powertrain options as the Thar, albeit in a different state of tune. It will also be bigger & wider than the existing model and will possess a totally refreshed design. Its interior will also get a significant overhaul along with new features like a bigger touchscreen infotainment system, electric sunroof, roof-mounted speakers, dual-zone climate control, and more. Click here for more details.
3. Maruti Suzuki Ertiga and XL6 Facelift
- Expected Launch: – by year-end.
- Expected Price Range: – could carry a slight premium over their current prices.
Maruti Suzuki Ertiga is one of the most selling 7-seater MPV in the country. Its second-generation version was introduced in 2018, and now it is due for a facelift update. The mid-life update is likely to consists of minor cosmetic changes and added features. And so Maruti is likely to update the Ertiga, it is natural that the carmaker will also revive its more premium and rugged-looking counterpart, the XL6.
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Currently, the Maruti Suzuki Nexa XL6 only comes in a 6-seater configuration, featuring two captain seats in the middle row. With the facelift update, the brand is also expected to introduce its more practical 7-seater version that is likely to be christened as 'XL7'.
Mechanically, we do not assume any changes to either MPVs. They will continue to be available with the ongoing 1.5-litre petrol engine, producing 105PS and 138Nm.
4. Mahindra Bolero Neo Plus
- Expected Launch: – around the festive season
- Expected Price Range: – Rs 9.50 lakh onwards
Mahindra has recently launched the facelifted TUV300 in the Indian market with the 'Bolero Neo' nameplate. The brand has positioned it as a premium alternative to the rugged Bolero. While the Bolero Neo is already a 7-seater offering (features two jumps seat in the last row), it is quite compact for families. And so, the brand is gearing up to introduce its longer version (measuring over 4m in length) with a total of 9-seater capacity. It will feature two side-facing bench-type seats in the third row.
(Image courtesy- gaadiwaadi)
Similar to the TUV300 Plus, the Bolero Neo Plus will also get a 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engine, which was rated at 120PS and 280Nm in its BS4 avatar.
Also Read: Electrified Version Of Mahindra KUV100 NXT Spied Testing
5. Kia KY 6/7-seater utility vehicle
- Expected Launch: – early 2022
- Expected Price Range: – between Rs 16 lakh to Rs 20 lakh
A few months back, Kia India has announced to enter into an all-new segment in early 2022. While the carmaker is yet to reveal any details about the product, speculations are being made that it could be a Kia Seltos-based three-row utility vehicle. Internally codenamed as KY, the upcoming Kia SUV will be positioned against the Tata Safari, MG Hector Plus, Hyundai Alcazar, and the upcoming Mahindra XUV700. It is likely to borrow its powertrains with the Hyundai Alcazar, comprising 2.0-litre petrol (152PS/192Nm) and 1.5-litre diesel (115bhp/250Nm) engine options, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.
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