Several automakers are planning to launch new 7-seater SUVs in India to compete with the popular Mahindra XUV700. Here are the key details about these upcoming rivals:
Hyundai 7-Seater Hybrid SUV (Codenamed Ni1i)
- Expected launch: Within 24-30 months
- Will be positioned above the Alcazar
- To be manufactured at Hyundai’s Talegaon facility
- Likely powertrain: 1.6L strong hybrid or 1.5L hybrid system
Kia 7-Seater SUV (Codenamed MQ4i)
- Will sit above the Seltos in Kia’s lineup
- Expected to use a strong hybrid powertrain from the international Sorento model
- Design and features may be derived from the Sorento
Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara 7-Seater (Codenamed Y17)
- Expected launch: Next year
- Based on Suzuki’s Global C platform
- Will share powertrains with the 5-seater Grand Vitara:
- 1.5L K15C mild-hybrid petrol
- 1.5L 3-cylinder strong hybrid
- Likely to have a longer wheelbase than the 5-seater version
Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder 7-Seater
- Expected launch: Around the same time as the Grand Vitara 7-seater
- Based on the Global C platform
- Will use the same engines as the 5-seater Hyryder:
- 1.5L K15C naturally aspirated petrol
- 1.5L strong hybrid 3-cylinder petrol with Atkinson cycle
Renault Bigster
- 7-seater version of the recently unveiled 5-seater Bigster
- Based on the CMF-B platform
- 230 mm longer than the Duster with 43 mm longer wheelbase
- Expected launch: 2026, about 6 months after the new-gen Duster
Nissan 7-Seater SUV
- Will be based on the Renault Bigster
- To share platform, powertrain and major components with the Bigster
- Will feature a unique design to differentiate it from the Renault version
These new 7-seater SUVs aim to capitalize on the growing demand for spacious family vehicles in the Indian market, offering alternatives to established players like the Mahindra XUV700, Tata Safari, and Hyundai Alcazar.