Compact SUVs You Should Keep An Eye On

Compact SUVs have been hitting the sweet spot for a majority of India’s automotive buyers, of late. Almost every carmaker wants to get in on the action, and brands that are new to India want to leap into the market with their own compact SUV offerings. Here are the ones we’re most excited about.

- Rajeev Mathew

SKODA KAROQ

What to expect

A well-constructed compact SUV with classic Skoda craftsmanship

When is it out?

It’s expected to be launched by March 2020, at a price of Rs 18 to Rs 20 lakh

Skoda first unveiled the Karoq in May 2017. It was the Czech carmaker’s answer to everyone else’s mid-size SUV offerings, and is considered to be the popular Yeti’s replacement. It takes its design inspiration from both the Yeti and the Kodiaq, Skoda’s flagship SUV. While the Karoq comes with six engine options around the world, the India-spec SUV will likely get Volkswagen’s new 1.5-litre TSI turbocharged petrol engine as well as a 2-litre TDI diesel engine. The fact that the Karoq will be locally assembled will help keep the price within a range of Rs 18 to Rs 20 lakh.

MG HECTOR

What to expect

A solid compact SUV that has the potential to be a mover and shaker in its segment.

When is it out?

It’s expected to be launched in June 2019, at an estimated price of Rs 15 lakh

Morris Garages (MG) is all set to make its long-awaited debut in India, and it’s starting off with the Hector. The Chinese-owned company will first roll out a five-seater version, with plans to release a seven-seater as well. The Hector will be powered by a Fiat-sourced 2-litre diesel engine, similar to the ones seen on the Tata Harrier and Jeep Compass, as well as a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine. The car is being heavily promoted for all its tech goodies, which include a 10.4-inch tablet-like touchscreen infotainment system, in-built internet connectivity and a unique AI voice assistant that will be capable of performing more than 100 functions.

AUDI Q3

What to expect