Upcoming SUVs in India – Every festive season, automakers in India go all-in with new car launches—and for good reason. It’s when buyer sentiment peaks, wallets open, and dealerships see a flood of footfalls. This year, four major brands—Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Mahindra, and Tata—are gearing up to drop SUVs that could change the game.
Let’s break down what’s coming, who they’re for, and why you might want to hold off on your next SUV purchase until these hit showrooms.
1. Maruti Suzuki Escudo – A Grand Vitara Alternative Upcoming SUV, But More Practical?
Before Maruti’s first EV (e-Vitara) hits the streets, they’re bringing out something that’s arguably more relevant for mainstream buyers right now: the Maruti Suzuki Escudo.
Here’s the thing—this SUV won’t just be a filler in the lineup. It’s designed to slot below the Grand Vitara, yet with slightly larger proportions, which might sound contradictory, but it works. The idea is to deliver strong road presence while keeping costs in check.
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Engine Options: Expect the familiar 1.5L mild-hybrid and strong-hybrid petrol engines. Later on it might be launched with electric option.
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Design: Influenced by both the Grand Vitara and upcoming e-Vitara—think sleek, modern, and aggressive.
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Sales Channel: Unlike the Grand Vitara which sells through Nexa, Escudo will be sold via Arena, which means wider reach.
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Feature Set: Expect a long equipment list—Maruti knows it has to compete in a very loaded segment.
Bottom line: if you’ve been eyeing the Grand Vitara but want something a bit more accessible with Nexa-level styling, this could be the one.
2. New Hyundai Venue – Third Time’s the Charm?
Hyundai’s Venue has always been a bestseller in the sub-4m SUV segment, but it’s time for a serious refresh. And that’s exactly what we’re getting.
The third-generation Hyundai Venue has been spotted testing for months now, and it’s not just a facelift—it’s a full-blown overhaul.
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Design: Will borrow a lot from the new Creta and Alcazar. Expect sharp lines, a bigger grille, and premium touches.
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Interior: Big changes inside. Think of a more digital, connected experience.
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Features: This one’s important—Level 2 ADAS and a panoramic sunroof are expected. That alone could set it apart in its segment.
Hyundai is clearly aiming to make the Venue feel more premium and future-ready. For someone looking for a compact SUV that doesn’t feel basic or dated, this might just become the new benchmark.
3. New-Gen Mahindra Bolero – Rugged Gets a Tech Upgrade
If there’s one nameplate that’s been quietly surviving while trends shift, it’s the Mahindra Bolero. But now, it’s finally going premium—or at least closer to it.
Spotted in full camouflage, the next-gen Bolero is expected to take a more evolutionary design route rather than a radical departure. Still, the real changes lie under the skin.
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Platform: Expected to move to a new ladder-frame chassis.
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Target Segment: Still built for rural and semi-urban markets, but with tech and comfort upgrades that might make it attractive in cities too.
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Positioning: Could sit closer to midsize SUVs in pricing and feature list.
Importantly, this won’t replace the existing Bolero—both will continue. But this new-gen version could become a new favorite among buyers wanting ruggedness without feeling stuck in the past.
4. Tata Punch Facelift – Finally Getting the Attention It Deserves
Let’s be honest—Tata’s done well with the Punch, but it hasn’t really received any major cosmetic updates since it launched back in 2021. That’s about to change.
The Tata Punch facelift is coming, and it’s borrowing a page from the EV version’s design book.
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Exterior Tweaks: Expect sharper design elements, a new grille, maybe some updated DRLs and tail lamps.
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Interior Updates: A better infotainment setup and new upholstery options are likely.
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Engine: Still the same reliable 1.2L naturally aspirated petrol. No changes there—at least for now. Also this upcoming SUV will be having same electric motor setup as the existing one.
What this facelift does is make the Punch more relevant again in a segment that’s getting increasingly competitive.
Quick Comparison – Upcoming SUVs: What’s Coming and Who It’s For
| SUV | Key Highlight | Best For | Launch Window |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maruti Escudo | Arena-based hybrid SUV | Value seekers wanting style + size | Festive 2025 |
| Hyundai Venue (3rd Gen) | ADAS, panoramic sunroof | Urban users, tech-savvy buyers | Late Q3 2025 |
| Mahindra Bolero (New Gen) | Rugged with modern touch | Rural + city mix buyers | Festive 2025 |
| Tata Punch Facelift | Refreshed styling, same engine | Compact city SUV buyers | Sept–Oct 2025 |
Final Thoughts: Should You Wait?
Yes—if you’re even thinking about buying a new SUV in the ₹8–15 lakh range, wait a few more months. These four launches are lined up to shake the market and could offer better features, styling, and value than many options currently on sale.
The festive season is shaping up to be a showdown between India’s top automakers—and your next SUV might just be in this list.
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So… are you ready? Drop your pick in the comments and let us know which SUV you’re most excited for.