India’s automotive market has always been vibrant, catering to a diverse range of consumer needs, from budget-friendly city cars to luxury vehicles. In 2024, the Indian automotive landscape witnessed some thrilling developments, with manufacturers offering a wide variety of cars across segments—compact, mid-size, SUVs, electric, and luxury models. This year has also seen an increasing emphasis on sustainability, with many brands launching electric vehicles (EVs) in response to the growing demand for eco-friendly alternatives.
Here’s a detailed recap of some of the key vehicle launches in India in 2024:
1. Tata Harrier Facelift (2024)
Tata Motors refreshed its popular Harrier SUV with a much-needed facelift in 2024. The updated model brought a host of cosmetic changes, including a new front grille, revised LED headlamps, and a more premium interior. The 2024 Harrier also introduced updated tech features, such as a larger touchscreen infotainment system with improved connectivity. Under the hood, the 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine continues, but with tweaks for better efficiency and performance. The Harrier facelift now offers more features, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), and a modernized design, reaffirming its position as one of the top SUVs in the Indian market.
2. Maruti Suzuki Fronx (2024)
Maruti Suzuki’s much-anticipated compact crossover, the Fronx, officially hit Indian roads in 2024. Combining elements of a hatchback and an SUV, the Fronx stands out for its bold styling, elevated ground clearance, and robust features. Available with both petrol and turbo-petrol engine options, the Fronx is targeted at urban buyers looking for a small but stylish vehicle that offers practicality and efficiency. The Fronx comes loaded with modern tech, including a large touchscreen, a premium audio system, and advanced safety features. Its attractive pricing, along with Maruti’s vast service network, is expected to make it a strong contender in the sub-4 meter SUV segment.
3. Honda Elevate (2024)
Honda entered the competitive compact SUV segment with the Elevate in 2024. The Elevate combines Honda’s reputation for comfort and reliability with modern SUV styling. Built on the same platform as the City sedan, it features a 1.5-liter petrol engine paired with either a 6-speed manual or CVT gearbox. The Elevate also boasts a high ground clearance, spacious cabin, and premium features like a large touchscreen infotainment system, wireless charging, and ADAS. Honda’s focus on providing a premium experience in the compact SUV category has made the Elevate one of the most anticipated launches of the year.
4. Kia Seltos Facelift (2024)
Kia Motors upgraded its popular compact SUV, the Seltos, with a facelift in 2024. The updated Seltos now features a more aggressive front design, with new LED lighting elements and a refreshed grille. The interior has been improved with a larger touchscreen and a more refined cabin. The Seltos continues to offer multiple engine options, including a 1.5-liter petrol engine, a 1.5-liter diesel, and a 1.4-liter turbocharged petrol. Kia has also introduced advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) in the 2024 Seltos, making it one of the most tech-forward SUVs in its segment.
5. Mahindra XUV700 EV (2024)
As part of its strategy to dominate the electric mobility space, Mahindra launched the electric version of its highly successful XUV700 SUV in 2024. The XUV700 EV combines the robust performance of the XUV700 with zero-emission power. It offers impressive range and fast-charging capabilities, along with cutting-edge technology and a host of features like ADAS, a large touchscreen, and premium cabin fittings. The XUV700 EV is a significant step towards Mahindra’s goal of expanding its electric vehicle lineup and is expected to appeal to eco-conscious SUV lovers looking for both luxury and sustainability.
6. Hyundai Verna (2024)
Hyundai’s Verna sedan, a nameplate that has built a solid reputation in the Indian market, received a complete redesign in 2024. The new-generation Verna now boasts a more aggressive and modern design, with a sloping roofline, sharper lines, and sleek LED headlamps. Under the hood, the Verna continues with its 1.5-liter petrol and diesel engine options but has received significant updates to improve performance and efficiency. The 2024 model also comes equipped with an array of premium features, including a large touchscreen, wireless charging, and advanced safety tech. Hyundai’s focus on technology, luxury, and design in the 2024 Verna has made it one of the standout sedans of the year.
7. Mahindra Thar 5-Door (2024)
The highly anticipated Mahindra Thar 5-Door finally made its debut in 2024, bringing a new dimension to the Thar SUV. The longer 5-door version offers more space, especially for rear passengers, while retaining the rugged charm and off-road capabilities of the 3-door model. It features the same 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol and 2.2-liter diesel engines, along with a 4WD system for off-road enthusiasts. The Thar 5-Door’s launch is expected to appeal to families looking for an adventurous vehicle without sacrificing comfort.
8. Electric Cars: Revolutionizing India’s Auto Industry
2024 marked an important year for electric vehicles (EVs) in India, with multiple new EVs hitting the market:
- Tata Nexon EV Facelift: Tata Motors unveiled an updated version of the Nexon EV in 2024, offering improved range, new features, and a more refined design. The Nexon EV continues to dominate the affordable electric SUV segment, and the facelift only strengthens its appeal.
- BYD Atto 3: BYD, the Chinese automaker, brought its electric SUV, the Atto 3, to India in 2024. The Atto 3 offers a long range, cutting-edge features, and a futuristic design, making it a formidable competitor in the growing electric SUV segment.
- MG ZS EV Facelift: MG Motor launched an updated version of its electric SUV, the ZS EV, featuring an improved battery, more range, and a fresh design. The ZS EV facelift also includes enhanced tech features like a new touchscreen interface and updated driver assistance features.
9. Luxury Cars and Premium Offerings
2024 also saw several premium brands launching exciting models in India:
- BMW X5 Facelift: The BMW X5 received an upgrade in 2024, with new styling, improved interiors, and enhanced tech features. It continues to offer a range of powerful engines, including petrol and diesel variants, making it a strong contender in the luxury SUV segment.
- Mercedes-Benz GLC (2024): The all-new Mercedes-Benz GLC was launched in 2024, offering cutting-edge technology, a luxurious cabin, and advanced safety features. With a range of petrol and diesel engines, it competes fiercely with rivals like the BMW X3 and Audi Q5.
The Indian automotive industry in 2024 has been marked by exciting innovations, with manufacturers pushing boundaries in terms of design, technology, and sustainability. Whether it’s the evolution of classic nameplates like the Tata Harrier or the arrival of new electric entrants like the BYD Atto 3, there is no shortage of options for Indian consumers. As the year progresses, it will be interesting to see how these models fare in terms of sales and market acceptance, but one thing is clear: 2024 has been a transformative year for the Indian automotive sector.