The Indian automobile market is set to witness an influx of premium 7-seater SUVs, positioned above the midsize segment, from a range of automakers. From Tata to Volkswagen, here’s a sneak peek into the future lineup of these spacious, feature-packed SUVs.
1. Tata Safari EV: Leading the Charge
Tata, after launching the facelifted Safari and Harrier, is all geared up to introduce an array of new electric SUVs. The Punch EV, Curvv EV, and Harrier EV are expected to hit the roads in the coming year. Following in their footsteps, the Safari EV is slated for a 2025 debut. This seven-seater SUV will take its place above the upcoming Harrier EV, and it’s likely that both models will share a battery pack and underpinnings, offering an impressive driving range of over 500 km.
2. 7-Seater Toyota Corolla Cross: A Customized Creation
Designed specifically for the Indian market, the 7-seater version of the global Toyota Corolla Cross is scheduled to roll out from a new plant in Karnataka by early 2026. It will sport exterior and interior modifications compared to the standard model and a lengthened wheelbase. Positioned above the Hyryder and below the Fortuner, this SUV is expected to feature the same 2.0L petrol and strong hybrid petrol engines found in the Innova Hycross.
3. New-Gen Skoda Kodiaq & VW Tayron: A Dynamic Duo
The second-generation Skoda Kodiaq and the all-new Volkswagen Tiguan are fresh global unveilings and are anticipated to make their way to India in late 2024. Alternatively, Volkswagen might introduce the three-row Tayron-based premium SUV in India.
4. Mahindra XUV.e8: Electrifying Entry
Based on the XUV700, the Mahindra XUV.e8 is set to arrive by December 2024. While it shares its underpinnings, the electric drivetrain will be brand new, housing a 60-80 kWh battery pack with a claimed driving range of over 500 km on a single charge. Expect a feature-rich equipment list to complement its electric performance.
5. Kia EV9: A Flagship Electric SUV
Kia’s flagship seven-seater electric SUV, the EV9, recently made its global debut in its production form. Available in multiple battery configurations in overseas markets, the Kia EV9 is expected to make its way to India in the coming year, capitalizing on the success of the EV6 crossover.
6. Tata Safari Petrol: Petrol Power Unleashed
Tata is set to introduce petrol variants of the Safari and Harrier in India next year. This powertrain will also find its way into the Curvv and Sierra. The 1.5L DI turbo petrol engine will be offered with a choice of six-speed manual and dual-clutch automatic transmissions, generating around 170 PS and 280 Nm.
7. Toyota Fortuner Hybrid: Electrifying the Fortuner
The mild hybrid version of the Toyota Hilux will debut in international markets before making its way to the Fortuner. The specific model for its introduction, whether the existing Fortuner or the next generation, remains uncertain.
As these premium 7-seater SUVs gear up for their Indian debut, the market is in for a wave of spacious and feature-packed options to cater to the growing demand for larger, more versatile SUVs.
