In the first quarter of financial year 2022-23, car manufacturers will introduce a wide range of new cars and facelifts of existing models. In this article, we bring you a list of top 7 all-new cars and SUVs to be launched in the next 3 months –
1. VOLKSWAGEN VIRTUS
German automaker, Volkswagen will launch the much-awaited Virtus sedan in May 2022. Interested buyers can book the new Virtus online or at authorised dealership. The company has also started production of the new sedan at its manufacturing facility in Aurangabad. It will rival the likes of the Honda City, Hyundai Verna, Maruti Suzuki and the newly launched Skoda Slavia.
The new VW Virtus shares the engine options, platform and components with the Slavia sedan. It is based on the MQB AO In platform that underpins the Kushaq. The sedan will be offered with two engine options – a 115bhp, 1.0L 3-cylinder turbo petrol and a 148bhp, 1.5L 4-cylinder turbo petrol. Transmission choices will include a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed torque convertor automatic and a 7-speed DSG automatic.
2. HONDA CITY E:HEV
Honda will unveil the new City e:HEV hybrid sedan in the India market on April 14, 2022. The sedan is expected to be launched in May 2022. Select dealers have already started taking pre-orders for the sedan. The new City hybrid will come with Honda’s i-MMD hybrid technology featuring two electric motors and a 1.5L 4-cylinder naturally-aspirated Atkinson Cycle petrol engine.
The petrol engine produces 98bhp of power and 127Nm of torque. The electric motors work as an integrated starter generator (ISG) and offers power worth 109bhp and 253Nm of torque. The sedan will have 3 drive modes – Pure EV, petrol mode and hybrid. Similar to the Thai-spec Honda City Hybrid, the India-spec version is likely to offer fuel economy of over 27kmpl.
3. BMW I4
British luxury carmaker, BMW will unveil the new i4 pure electric sedan in the country on April 28. The electric sedan is expected to be launched in May 2022. The new BMW i4 EV is based on the 3 Series CLAR platform. The EV sedan looks largely identical to the 4 Series Gran Coupe; however, it gets some EV specific touches.
In the international markets, the BMW i4 is offered in two variants – eDrive40 and M50 xDrive – featuring a floor-mounted lithium-ion battery pack having a gross energy capacity of 83.9kWh and a net capacity of 80.7kWh. It is expected that India will get the base-spec xDrive 40 variant, which has a rear axle-mounted electric motor producing 340bhp and 430Nm. It is claimed to achieve 0-100kmph acceleration in 5.7 seconds. This variant has a claimed range of 590km, which is also the highest in the country.
4. JEEP MERIDIAN
The long-awaited Jeep Meridian 3-row SUV will be launched in the Indian market in May or June 2022. Interested buyers can pre-book the SUV at a token amount of Rs 50,000. The new Meridian 7-seater SUV is based on the Small Wide 4×4 platform that underpins the Compass. This platform has been modified to accommodate a longer wheelbase. The SUV is expected to be priced aggressively and we expect the Meridian to cost somewhere between Rs 33 lakh and Rs 40 lakh.
It measures 4,769mm in length, 1,859mm in width and 1,682mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 2,794mm. The wheelbase has been increased by 158mm to accommodate a longer body. Compared to the Compass, the new Jeep Meridian is around 364mm longer, 41mm wider and 42mm taller. Powering the new Meridian is a 2.0-litre Multijet II diesel engine that produces 173bhp and 350Nm of torque.
It is claimed to offer a top speed of 198kmph and 0-100kmph acceleration in 10.8 seconds. Transmission choices could include a 6-speed manual and a 9-speed automatic. While the manual version will get 4×2 drivetrain system, the automatic SUV will come with both 4×2 and 4×4 setup. The SUV offers 4 driving modes – Sand, Snow, Auto & Mud.
5. CITROEN C3
French automaker, Citroen will launch the much-awaited C3 hatchback in the Indian market by May-June 2022. The new Citroen C3 is based on the Stellantis CMP (Common Modular Platform), which will also underpin the future Citroen cars. Measuring 3.98 meters in length, the new C3 is a hatchback with crossover design. It comes with raised bonnet and high ground clearance. Its overall width and height stand at 1829mm and 1474mm respectively. The hatch sits on a 2539mm long wheelbase.
The Citroen C3 will rival the likes of the Tata Punch, Maruti Swift, Hyundai Grand i10 Nios and others in the category. The new model is likely to be equipped with a 1.2L turbocharged petrol engine and the 5-speed manual and 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox options. No diesel engine will be on offer.
6. NEW MAHINDRA SCORPIO
Mahindra will introduce the new gen Scorpio SUV by June 2022. It is expected that Mahindra could unveil the new Scorpio in June, as the Scorpio nameplate will be celebrating its 20th anniversary in June 2022. The new model could be the new gen Scorpio that has been spotted testing several times on the Indian roads.
The new Mahindra Scorpio will be based on the ladder-on-frame chassis that underpins the new Thar. It will grow in size and will offer forward facing third row of seats. The SUV will be offered in 6 and 7-seat options with former having captain seats in the second row. It is expected to be offered with two engine options – a 2.0L turbocharged petrol and a 2.2-litre turbocharged diesel. Transmission choices are likely to include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque convertor automatic. The higher variants will also receive a 4×4 drivetrain along with terrain modes & drive modes.
7. NEW MERCEDES-BENZ C-CLASS
Mercedes-Benz has confirmed that the new C-Class sedan will be launched in the country in 2022. If reports are to be believed, the new Mercedes C-Class will be launched in mid-2021 – around May. Already on sale in select international markets, the new C-Class is rides on 25mm longer wheelbase and is 65mm longer than the outgoing model. The company is likely to come with a 48V mild hybrid tech.
Korean automaker, Hyundai had announced to launch 6 new Battery Electric Vehicles in the Indian market by 2028. The company will also introduce its dedicated BEV platform – E-GMP (Electric Global Modular Platform) in the Indian market. Similarly, Kia is also ready to enter the electric vehicle category in the Indian market.
While Hyundai will launch the Hyundai Ioniq 5 crossover, Kia will announce the EV6 GT for the Indian market. Both models have been spotted testing multiple times on the Indian roads. These electric crossovers will arrive as a CBU and are likely to be priced over 40 lakh.
HYUNDAI IONIQ 5
The new Hyundai electric car is based on a dedicated electric skateboard platform called the E-GMP. This flexible architecture is compatible with multiple body styles. In terms of features, the electric crossover will get a pair of 12-inch displays (one for infotainment system & one for instrument console), digital screens for rear view mirrors displays, Hyundai’s BlueLink connected car tech, advanced driver assistance and head-up display.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is offered with two powertrain options. The lower variants come with a single motor delivering a claimed power of 169bhp and 350Nm of torque. It is claimed to achieve 0-100kmph acceleration in 8.5 seconds. The dual-motor version features AWD and offers 306bhp and 605Nm of torque. It is capable to achieve 0-100kmph acceleration in 5.2 seconds before hitting a top speed of 185kmph. The automaker offers the Ioniq 5 with two battery packs – 58kWh and 72.6kWh – promising a maximum range of 385km and 481km on the WLTP cycle respectively.
KIA EV6 GT
Kia India is readying the all-electric EV6, which is expected to be launched by mid-2022. The new EV6 will come as a full-import in the Indian market. It is also based on the e-GMP platform that underpins the Hyundai Ioniq 5. The electric crossover has all the features that are accessible in the Hyundai Ioniq 5.
In the global markets, the electric crossover is offered in multiple configurations. It gets a 58kWh battery pack that is offered in two configurations – RWD with 170bhp single motor & AWD layout with dual-motor set-up that produces 235bhp. The top-spec model has a larger 77.4kWh battery pack that has a 229bhp single-motor in RWD guise, and 325bhp dual-motor in AWD guise. The higher-spec GT variant comes with dual-motor AWD layout producing 585bhp and 740Nm of torque.
Maruti Suzuki is working on multiple new SUVs for the Indian market. The company will launch a new mid-sized SUV, codenamed YFG and the new Brezza in 2022. Moreover, the company is preparing a new Coupe SUV, codenamed YTB that’s likely to be launched in 2023. MSIL is also considering launching the new Suzuki Jimny in the country.
The Indo-Japanese brand has showcased the three-door Jimny Sierra at the 2020 Auto Expo. A new media report claims that Maruti Suzuki has taken market feedback on the new Suzuki Jimny and is currently evaluating market plans. Speaking to Business Today TV, Shashank Srivastava, executive director, sales & marketing at Maruti Suzuki India said that the option of getting Jimny to India is being considered.
Maruti Suzuki currently has two SUVs – the Brezza and the S-Cross. While the Brezza will soon receive an upgrade, the S-Cross is most likely to be replaced by a new mid-sized SUV. The share of SUV segment has increased from 32 per cent to 40 per cent in the Indian market.
For people not in the know, Maruti Suzuki has already producing the Jimny lifestyle SUV at its facility in Gurugram, Haryana. The SUV is currently exported to select international markets.
Previous media reports claim that MSIL will introduce a long-wheelbase 5-door version of the Jimny lifestyle SUV in India. The new model is expected to make global debut in 2023. The leaked documents reveal that the 5-door JImny will measure 3850mm in length, 1645mm in width and 1730mm in height with a wheelbase of 2550mm. This makes it around 300mm longer than the globally sold 3-door Jimny. The Jimny 5-door has a ground clearance of 210mm and weighs 1,190kgs, which is 100kg heavier than its compact counterpart.
The new lifestyle SUV is expected to be powered by a 1.5-litre K15B petrol engine that’s good enough for 102bhp and 138Nm. The company could also use the new 115bhp, 1.5L K15C petrol engine. The engine will receive 12V SHVS mild hybrid tech. Both manual and automatic versions are likely to be on offer.
Korean automaker, Kia has officially launched the new 2022 Kia Seltos and Sonet facelift in the Indian market. The new models come with new features, added colour options and rejigged variant lineup. The entry-level variants now come with added features, which were earlier offered on high-spec variants.
The 2022 Kia Seltos range is available in the price bracket of Rs 10.19 lakh to Rs 18.45 lakh. On the flip side, the Kia Sonet facelift is priced between Rs 7.15 lakh and Rs 13.69 lakh (ex-showroom, India).
The new models are equipped with 4 airbags as standard across all lower variants. Moreover, the new Seltos and Sonet range are offered with two new colours – Imperial Blue and Sparkling Silver. The 2022 Kia Seltos diesel version also gets the iMT (Intelligent Manual Transmission) gearbox.
2022 KIA SELTOS
The new Seltos facelift has received over 13 changes or upgrades. The Seltos is the first model to get iMT (Intelligent Manual Transmission) technology with the 1.5L diesel engine. It also gets a new HTX AT variant powered by a 1.5L engine. The automatic variants of the SUV gets paddle shifters, multi drive and traction modes.
The 2022 Kia Seltos facelift now comes with 4 airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), Brake Assist (BA), Hill Assist Control (HAC), Highline Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (Highline TPMS) and all-wheel disc brakes as standard. The HTX+ variants also get curtain airbags. It gets Seltos logo design on the D-cut steering wheel, SUS scuff plate and tailgate. The X Line logo is embossed on Indigo Pera Seats.
2022 KIA SONET
The new Sonet received 9 new updates. It now comes equipped with side airbag and highline Tyre Pressure Monitoring System as standard. The vehicle also gets ESC, VSM, Brake Assist, HAC as standard on the iMT trims.
The curtain airbags are now offered from HTX+ variant onwards. The new model (from HTX+ trim) comes with the advanced 4.2-inch colour instrument console. The Semi Leatherette seat is now offered from the HTE variant. The Sonet logo has also been updated on the D-cut steering wheel and tailgate.
The 2022 Kia Sonet is available in 3 engine options – a 83bhp, 1.2L petrol, a 118bhp, 1.0L turbo petrol and a 99bhp or 113bhp, 1.5L turbo-diesel. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual, a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed iMT, a 6-speed automatic and a 7-speed dual clutch automatic.
Maruti Brezza has been gearing up to launch the updated Ertiga and XL6 in the coming days. After both models, the company will introduce the much-awaited new-generation Brezza with significant cosmetic changes, feature and mechanical upgrades. The new 2022 Maruti Brezza is reported to come with the updated 1.5L K15, naturally aspirated petrol engine that will be more powerful than the existing unit. While the new engine will deliver power around 115bhp, the latter is good for 104bhp.
The new 1.5L K15C Dualjet gasoline motor will be first introduced on the new XL6 and Ertiga MPVs. This time around, the company might offer the Brezza with the factory-fitted CNG kit. The Maruti Brezza CNG will certainly be more fuel efficient than the regular model. Though, its power and torque figures could be slightly lower. Transmission choices will include a 5-speed manual and a 6-speed torque convertor automatic (replacing the existing 4-speed AT unit). The new automatic transmission comes with advanced technology, a sport mode, manual shift option and added ratio.
Compared to the current generation, the new 2022 Maruti Brezza will have more advanced features on offer (especially on the higher trims). The SUV could get the factory-fitted sunroof, a 360 degree parking camera and paddle shifters. The existing touchscreen infotainment system will be replaced with a bigger 9.0-inch unit that’s likely to support wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The list of features might include wireless charging system, a new instrument console, automatic AC unit, 6 airbags, electronic stability programe (ESP) and more.
The new 2022 Maruti Brezza is reported to have stronger bodyshell than the existing model. The automaker might also be classed up its material quality, fit and finish. Comprehensive changes will be made to its exterior as well. The compact SUV will receive a new grille, headlamps, revised front and rear bumpers and tweaked taillamps.
Maruti Suzuki is all set to launch the new Ertiga and XL6 facelifts on 15th and 21st April 2022 respectively. According to a fresh media report, select dealers have started accepting pre-bookings for the 2022 Maruti XL6. The MPV will receive a few noticeable changes inside and out. Though, the major update will come in the form new 1.5L petrol engine and a new 6-speed torque convertor automatic gearbox. The new XL6 is reported to be offered with the new 1.5L K15C Dualjet petrol engine replacing the K15B motor.
The new gasoline engine will deliver a claimed power of 115bhp, thus making the MPV 10bhp more powerful than before. It’s the same powertrain that does duty in the global-spec Vitara SUV. One must note that the Vitara comes with the hybrid motor that makes an extra 33bhp. In India, the updated Ertiga and XL6 will come with the integrated starter generator and auto start stop system instead of the hybrid tech.
The new Maruti XL6 2022 will be available with the 5-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmission options. With the new automatic gearbox, the MPV will comply with the upcoming Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFÉ 2) standards that will be implemented in April 2022. The new transmission unit is reported to improve performance with better shift times and quicker responses. Read: New-Gen Maruti Alto 2022 – Taller, Lighter, Higher Ground Clearance
On the exterior, the new XL6 facelift will feature a newly-designed grille, LED headlamps and revised front bumper. The MPV might also receive larger alloy wheels. As of now, interior details are not available. Though, it’s likely to come with the bigger 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless smartphone connectivity. The automaker might equip the new 2022 Maruti XL6 with the leather seats, wireless phone charging, revised aircon control and automatic air conditioning unit.
After the new XL6, the home-grown automaker will bring in the second-generation Maruti Brezza with comprehensive cosmetic changes and feature upgrades. It’s reported to hit roads in mid 2022.
