IAB Picks - 6 more SUVs/crossovers to be launched in India in 12-18 months

26/07/2014 - 13:33 | Audi Q3, Hyundai ix25, Mercedes GLA, Ssangyong X100, Tata Nexon, Maruti SX4 S-Cross, Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors, Hyundai, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Ssangyong, Picks | Nithyanandh K

The crossover is a keyword to unlock the Indian market and automakers are very well aware of this.

Here is the second part of the list of crossovers that are coming our way in the next 12-18 months. Click here to see the top 5 SUVs and Crossovers that are lined up for India in next 12-15 months.

1. Mercedes GLA

Mercedes GLA front three quarters right at Auto Expo 2014 — The Mercedes GLA will lock horns with the BMW X1 and Audi Q3.

The Mercedes GLA would fill the compact crossover SUV void in the brand's portfolio when its launched later this year. Based on the MFA front-wheel-drive platform that also underpins the A and B Class models, the premium crossover will take on the BMW X1 and Audi Q3. Familiar petrol and diesel engines would be doing the duty under the hood. Bookings for the car have started at dealerships.

2. Audi Q3 facelift

Audi Q3S Review side — The Audi Q3 facelift would undergo subtle revisions. (Image: current Audi Q3 S)

The Audi Q3 facelift will make its world premiere this year with subtle design tweaks. The Q3 is Audi India's most affordable model and hence is a highly important product for sales volume. Since the Q3 is assembled in India from CKD kits, it shouldn't take long for the refreshed version to reach Indian shores.

3. Maruti SX4 S-Cross

Maruti SX-4 S-Cross IAB spy image - rear three quarter — IAB reader Mr. Tarun Sharma caught the Maruti SX4 S-Cross testing in India recently.

Testing of the Maruti SX4 S-Cross is progressing well, as evident from the numerous spyshots we receive, ahead of its scheduled launch sometime in early 2015. The crossover would be powered by 1.6-litre petrol and diesel engines which could be aided by the Suzuki AllGrip all-wheel-drive system. The car will lock horns with the likes of Renault Duster, Mahindra Scorpio and Nissan Terrano.

4. Hyundai ix25

Hyundai ix25 front three quarters right at Auto China 2014 — The Hyundai ix25, or a crossover similar to it, is expected to be in India sometime in 2015.

The Hyundai ix25 which debuted in the form of a near production concept at this year's Beijing Auto Show is the South Korean automaker's reply to the Ford EcoSport, Renault Duster, Nissan Terrano and Maruti SX4 S-Cross. The India-spec model is expected to have petrol and diesel engine options that are suitable to take on its rivals. Expect the ix25, or a car similar to it, to reach India in 2015.

5. Tata Nexon

Tata Nexon Concept front three quarters at Geneva — The Tata Nexon would be produced by the same team that is behind the Zest.

The Tata Nexon concept which was unveiled at the Auto Expo previewed the ailing Indian automaker's compact SUV contender. Initial reports suggest that the production model would be based on a modified version of the Vista platform and the EcoSport challenger is expected to be ready in February 2016.

6. Ssangyong X100

Ssangyong XLV concept front three quarter - Geneva Live — The Ssangyong X100 was previewed by the XLV Concept.

The Ssangyong X100 compact crossover will be available as five- and seven-seater variants with varying lengths. Previewed by the XLV Concept, the five-seater variant is slated to world debut in January 2015 while the 7-seater variant would follow later next year. While the shorter version is doubtful to make it into India, the longer model could possibly be positioned between the Mahindra XUV500 and Ssangyong Rexton.