Last month, we saw two important new launches from Renault in the mass-market space, while at the premium end of the market, Volvo introduced the new XC60 facelift and Mercedes launched the AMG CLE 53 Coupe. This month, Maruti Suzuki will be unveiling an all-new Arena SUV (the brand’s first new product since the Dzire last November), Vinfast will finally announce prices for the VF6 and the VF7, and Volvo will continue its new product streak with the EX30 electric SUV. Let’s take a closer look at what to expect from each.
1. New Maruti Suzuki Arena SUV
September 3
Maruti Suzuki will introduce an all-new 5-seater midsize SUV positioned to take on the likes of the Hyundai Creta and Kia seltosbut it will be sold through the Arena dealership chain which means it will have a more affordable positioning than the Grand Vitara. Code named the Y17, this new SUV could be called the Victoris upon launch. Spy shots of camouflaged prototypes have hinted at an e-vitara-inspired design and an all-new interior as well. As for powertrains, it could borrow the Grand Vitara’s 103hp, 1.5-litre mild hybrid and 116hp strong-hybrid engine options, along with their respective gearbox pairings. CNG can be expected to be on offer as well.
2. Citroen Basalt X
September 5
The X will be a new top-end trim in the Basalt range. Pre-bookings are already underway for a token amount of Rs 11,000 and it is expected to get cosmetic and equipment upgrades. Citroen’s teasers have hinted at a new pattern imprint on the dashboard along with new bronze accents; the same is also likely on the AC vents. Additionally, one image has also hinted at a new black and tan upholstery for the interior. There could be also be new feature additions such as a 360-degree camera. Mechanically, however, the Basalt will remain unchanged.
3. Vinfast VF 7
September 6
After months of anticipation, Vinfast will finally announce prices for the Vf7 this month. The 4.5-meter-long EV has a swoopy, crossover-like exterior. The India-spec VinFast VF7 will be equipped with a 70.8kWh LFP battery with 7.2kW AC and CCS2 DC fast charging support. It will be offered in 204hp FWD and 350hp AWD configuration, with respective WLTP ranges of 450km and 431km. The India-spec VF7 will run on 19-inch alloy wheels, and some of on-board equipment highlights include a 12.9-inch touchscreen, ventilated seats, reclining rear seats, and Level 2 ADAS with 7 airbags. It is expected to be priced at around the Rs 30 lakh, and bookings are already underway.
4. Vinfast VF 6
September 6
The VF6also arriving this month, is relatively smaller at 4.e-meters. It looks like a shrunken-down VF7, and borrows most features like the touchscreen, glass roof and ADAS suite from the larger SUV. However, it gets a smaller 59.6kWh battery that powers a sole 204hp FWD motor. The VF6’s WLTP range is rated at 480km. Pre-bookings for the VF6 are underway as well. It will be positioned in the competitive midsize EV segment, where it will have the likes of the Tata Curvv Ev and Hyundai Creta Electric to contend with. Prices are expected to be in the range of Rs 20 lakh-25 lakh.
5. Volvo Ex30
Mid-September
The Ex30 will be Volvo’s first grounds up EV in India. It is expected to land at around Rs 50 lakh, which would put it precisely in line with other entry-level luxury EVs like the Bmw ix1 and World Sealion 7. The EX30 will be offered with a 69kWh battery pack that’s wired up to a rear-mounted electric motor, developing 272hp and 343Nm. Volvo claims a 480km range, as certified by the global WLTP cycle. In keeping with the sustainability theme, the EX30 is mostly built with recycled materials instead of leather. The interior is largely dominated by a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen that integrates most in-car functions, including the climate control, headlight adjustment and outside rearview mirror adjustment.
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