It’s that time of the year again where new dawn is just around the corner. In the automobile field, 2020 looks to be a promising year for India’s cars. Whether you’re a hardcore petrolhead or just someone looking to buy a new car, next year’s roster of engines has something for every Indian. So without any further ado, let’s dive into the list!
HYUNDAI
1. 2020 Hyundai Creta
When it’s coming: Early 2020
Class: SUV
Hyundai i20
Hyundai looks to expand more on the golden formula it had struck with the Creta. This new-and-improved version looks to be bigger and better, with a complete do-over in the interiors and a touchscreen entertainment system. It follows in the Kia Seltos approach in a lot of ways, and you’ll have to wait and watch until this much-awaited machine is released next year, for the full experience.
2. Hyundai i20
When it’s coming: Mid-late 2020
Class: Hatchback
Hyundai i20
One of the most iconic hatchbacks in Indian history is getting a little revamp come next year. Right from the headlamps to the engine capacity, the car looks to improve on its predecessor in every way. The car also has a new design that gives it a very SUVesque feel. This is definitely a car to watch out for next year.
3. Hyundai Tucson (rework)
When it’s coming: First half of 2020
Class: SUV
Hyundai Tucson (rework)
This version provides a lot of quality-of-life updates over the previous Tucson. It has Hyundai’s signature cascading grille, LED lamps, an infotainment system and camera fittings. It also comes in an automatic transmission variant. All these make it well worth the wait.
TATA Motors
1. TATA Altroz
When it’s coming: First quarter of 2020
Class: Hatchback
TATA Altroz
This brand new kid on the block is a big step ahead for Tata Motors. With the Altroz, they look to break into the premium hatchback segment. Other vehicles in the tier have been rousing successes thus far, such as the Ford Figo. A unique thing that the Altroz has going for it is the variety of engines on offer. From the three-cylinder, 1.2 litre petrol engine that’s more like the Tiago, to the diesel engine that packs a little more punch (Nexon-inspired), there’s plenty to look forward to in this new offering from Tata.
2. TATA Blizzard
When it’s coming: Early 2020
Class: SUV
TATA Blizzard
This SUV embodies the word BIG. Tata is looking to offer bang for your buck with this 7-seater, combining it with a respectable 170hp engine for that power. It’s going up against the Creta, so the competition is very high. The Blizzard looks to gain Tata a foothold in the large SUV department.
Honourable mentions go to the Tiago and the Nexon, which are both getting a small makeover in terms of streamlining their looks.
There’s also the EVs (Electric Variants) of the Altroz and the Nexon to look out for. All in all, it’s a promising lineup for Tata.
MARUTI SUZUKI
1. Maruti Suzuki Celerio
When’s it coming: Late 2020
Class: Hatchback
Maruti Suzuki Celerio
Yes, we know what you’re thinking, the Celerio already came out in 2014. Maruti Suzuki is looking to capitalize on the success of its predecessor with this version that follows their new design standards. Along with the lighter build, it’s also going to come with a CNG option, which is a unique point for hatchbacks. Don’t worry, it has a good 1L petrol engine for all you purists as well.
2. Maruti Suzuki S-Cross Petrol
When’s it coming: Early 2020
Class: SUV
Maruti Suzuki S-Cross Petrol
The S-Cross has been another winner for Maruti Suzuki in the SUV department, with the perfect mix of sport and comfort. The diesel engine is being switched out for a higher capacity 1.5 litre diesel engine, based on customer trends. Another ace that they’re going for here is bringing an automatic transmission into the mix – a welcome addition for the S-Cross
The Vitara Brezza and the Ignis are also getting facelifts, which is a smart move considering how popular they are among the customers. These include slight modifications to their respective engine loadouts and some aesthetic tweaks. There’s also talks of a WagonR ev entering the field sometime next year.
MAHINDRA
1. Mahindra Scorpio
When’s it coming: Early-Mid 2020
Class: SUV
A trusty favourite among Indians, the Scorpio is getting a remodel next year. The framework stays the same, and the engine tops out at around 150hp.
2. Mahindra XUV500
When’s it coming: Early to mid-2020
Class: SUV
Mahindra XUV500
The big boy in Mahindra’s stables is getting a different kind of assembly and he’s also gaining more transmission options. They’re focusing on the engine and power, which is always great for a car like this. Petrol and diesel variants are both going to be available.
3. Mahindra Thar
When’s it coming: Early 2020
Class: SUV/Jeep
Mahindra Thar
This is Mahindra’s big-ticket entry next year. They went back to the drawing board on this one, and it’s completely new in almost all aspects. Be it the reverse cam or the customizable hard-top, there’s a fresh vibe to the whole vehicle. It was originally going to be released as a diesel vehicle, but it seems like we’ll be getting a petrol variant as well as a 2WD auto gearbox as well! Fingers crossed!
A point to note here is that thanks in part to an alliance with Ford, Mahindra is all set to roll out a roster of electric vehicles next year. Their eKUV, XUV300 ev and the Ford-Mahindra Aspire ev all show promise to become game-changers in the Indian car scenario.
Mercedes-Benz
1. Mercedes-Benz A-Class Sedan
When’s it coming? Mid-Late 2020
Class: Sedan
Mercedes-Benz A-Class Sedan
Mercedes has always set the bar high when it comes to classy sedans, and the A-class looks to bring its A-game next year. This is Benz’s most affordable sedan in India, and it comes with ample benefit. There are both petrol as well as diesel variants, and the CLA45 edition even comes with a signature AMG variant. Mercedes lovers rejoice!
They’re also bringing in the whole family, with the GLC SUV and the GLB also entering India in all their glory.
AUDI
1. Audi A8 L
When’s it coming: Late 2019 – Early 2020
Class: Sedan
Audi A8 L
Audi’s prodigal son finally enters Indian soil. This car is loaded with features that are classic of the German carmaker. Dual touchscreens, LED lights, massage facility for the rear seats, it has them all. Currently, it’s only going to be rolled out in the diesel version. This is Audi’s answer to Benz’s S-class and BMW’s 7 series.
Audi is also shifting their game plan a bit, by introducing some remodelled versions of their vehicles such as the now-common A4 with some extra features.
2. Audi e-tron
When’s it coming: Early 2020
Class: SUV EV
Audi e-tron
Audi is finally bringing their e-tron to India, and it promises to change the way we see electric vehicles. This is a powerful beast, packing a 95 kWh battery unit that can clock up to 100kmph in just under 6 seconds. It charges quickly, too, requiring around 30 minutes of charge to be up and running with the right charger. Let’s see how the Indian market responds to it!
VOLKSWAGEN
1. Volkswagen T-Cross
When’s it coming: Late 2020
Class: SUV
Volkswagen T-Cross
The latest in Volkswagen’s line of SUVs, this is being released in India as a direct competitor to the Creta. At first glance, it looks more like a Skoda, but it packs good ground clearance for Indian roads. This machine is built for Indian terrain, and comes with a 5-seater, 1.5 litre petrol engine. A CNG engine might be in the works too.
2. Volkswagen Tiguan AllSpace
When’s it coming: Late 2020
Class: SUV
Volkswagen Tiguan AllSpace
This is an SUV that’s all about space. More room in the trunk, more legroom …just more. There’s also an extra row of seats, which is an added bonus. On the outside, it looks just like the base Tiguan. This Volkswagen SUV comes with a petrol-only engine.
NOTABLE MENTIONS:
- DATSUN COMPACT SUV: Datsun forays into the SUV segment, in late 2020, as a competitor to vehicles like the Vitara.
- KIA COMPACT SUV: Following its big brother Seltos, the Compact SUV is looking to enter the market on a strong note. Its specs will look similar to Hyundai’s machines, according to speculation.
- SKODA OCTAVIA RS245: The latest in Skoda’s successful line of sedans for India is coming out sometime next year. It improves on major aspects of previous iterations by a little fine-tuning.
There are plenty of cars coming out next year, with tough competition between the makers involved. Time will tell how each one will be received, and so will you, the customer! Which car are you looking forward to the most? Let us know below!
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