Last year, sub-compact SUVs received a healthy tax benefit, which helped automakers lower the cost of these models. Since then, the demand for sub-compact SUVs has been increasing. Now, to take advantage of this, automakers like Tata, Mahindra and Renault are planning to introduce newer sub-4m compact SUVs in India. Here’s a look at the upcoming ones – Attention Readers! Join us on the WhatsApp Community for daily auto news updates.
Upcoming Compact SUVs In India: Mahindra Vision S
Expected Price: Rs. 9 Lakh – Rs. 18 Lakh (on-road, Mumbai)
Mahindra has been rigorously testing the Vision S-based SUV in India. This model is expected to launch in the second half of 2027 and will be positioned alongside the XUV 3XO in Mahindra’s lineup. The SUV has a boxy, upright design with a muscular bonnet. The looks somehow make it relatable to the Scorpio family.
Moreover, this will be the first SUV in Mahindra’s lineup to be underpinned by the brand’s new NU_IQ architecture. This new architecture is said to support several powertrains: Petrol, Diesel, Hybrid, and EV. So we expect the model to be offered in a multi-powertrain setup. Expect the 1.2-litre turbo petrol engines and a 1.5-litre diesel engine from the XUV 3XO; it might also get a new hybrid powertrain. Being built on a monocoque platform, we expect this model to offer an AWD setup.
Mahindra has also teased how the interiors of this Vision S-based SUV could look. It gets an upright, high-mounted dashboard, a large central touchscreen, and a futuristic ‘BE’-style steering wheel. Along with that, expect the model to include features like ventilated front seats, Level 2 ADAS, 6 airbags, a panoramic glass roof, powered front seats, and more.
Also Read: New Maruti Brezza vs Tata Nexon: Which Is Better?
New-Gen Tata Nexon
Expected Price: Rs. 9.5 Lakh – Rs. 18 Lakh (on-road, Mumbai)
Tata Motors has already confirmed it will launch the new-gen Nexon in India by mid 2027. The Nexon is already a fairly loaded SUV, offering a good suite of features and multi-powertrain options. Now, with the new generation, the Nexon might feature a distinctive design, with some new fresh colour options and some new features. However, it’s too early to comment on the features that could be added, as it offers good tech currently.
Now, Tata Motors has not commented on introducing hybrid tech yet. So, the possibility of the new-gen Nexon getting the same remains slim. However, it could be added later on. The Nexon already offers a turbo CNG; however, if Tata wants to increase sales further, it could offer the Nexon with the 1.2-litre NA petrol engine from the Altroz, paired with CNG and an AMT gearbox.
Also Read: New Rs 9 Lakh Japanese SUV Coming To India
Renault Bridger
Expected Price: Rs. 10 Lakh – Rs. 17 Lakh (on-road, Mumbai)
Renault is planning to launch a new sub-compact SUV, the Bridger. At present, Renault sells the Kiger in its sub-compact portfolio, and the Bridger will be joining the lineup. At present, the brand hasn’t revealed an exact launch timeline for the model; however, we expect it to launch by the second half of 2026.
The brand has already revealed that it will target consumers who crave better mileage with the Bridger. According to industry reports, the Bridger will be powered by a 1.2-litre petrol hybrid engine based on the Miller cycle, which focuses on offering better mileage. Dacia has tested this mill on its version of the Duster, and it returned a fuel efficiency of nearly 30kmpl. Now, the Dacia Duster measures above 4m, while the Bridger will be a sub-4m segment car, so possibly it could offer better mileage, but it remains to be tested. Apart from that, it is expected to be a lifestyle sub-compact SUV, offering AWD configuration in India.
The Renault Bridger is expected to be a smaller version of the Duster SUV. That said, it will boast several features from its bigger sibling. We expect Nissan to offer a twin-screen setup, a panoramic sunroof, a powered driver’s seat, ventilated front seats, a wireless charging pad, a 360-degree camera, and much more.
The Renault Bridger will likely rival the likes of the Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV 3XO, Skoda Kylaq, Hyundai Venue, Maruti Brezza and other sub-compact SUVs.
Also Read: New 25 Kmpl Tata Nexon Rival Coming Soon?