Mahindra, Tata and Nissan are preparing to launch new models in the 7-seater segment and here is what we have told about them.
The 7-seater compact and midsize SUV segment will see a lot of activity in the next three to four months as major automakers like Mahindra, Tata and Nissan are preparing to launch their new models. Mahindra will bring an electric 7-seater SUV with its updated XUV 700. Nissan is also working on its new 7-seater MPV, which is being designed especially keeping Indian families in mind. The arrival of these new models will not only increase the options, but will also make the competition more intense in this fast-growing segment.
1. Mahindra XEV 9S
Mahindra is going to add a new car to its electric SUV lineup. This will be the XEV 9S, which could become the brand’s largest 7-seater electric SUV. Due to the cabin layout, it will be considered a level above the XEV 9e and BE 6. Its design clearly looks inspired by the XUV.e8 concept.
The SUV is built on Mahindra’s INGLO skateboard platform, the same architecture that underpins the XEV 9e and BE 6. With this, the 9S is expected to use the company’s latest motor and battery combinations. The actual range of the top variant is likely to be around 500 kms.
2. Tata Safari Petrol
Tata Motors is finally ready to fill a major gap in its SUV lineup, with the Safari and Harrier coming with petrol engines for the first time. The new engine is a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder, turbocharged, direct-injection unit, codenamed Hyperion. This engine will generate approximately 168 PS of power and 280 Nm of torque. Both manual and automatic options are planned.
These new petrol versions of Harrier and Safari will be launched in December, while Sierra will be launched later this month. These are expected to be priced lower than the diesel variants, so the petrol trims are for buyers who don’t need diesel torque or economical long-range mileage.
3. Mahindra XUV700 Facelift
The facelifted version of the Mahindra XUV 700 has been spotted on public roads several times and will get some minor cosmetic updates. However, major changes will be made to the interior as it will get a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a triple screen setup consisting of a driver display and a front passenger screen and many new features. It is expected to arrive early next year.
4. Nissan MPV
Nissan has already been spotted testing a compact MPV based on the same platform as the Renault Triber and it will go on sale early next year. This model is part of the larger product plan of the Japanese company. The company is also working on a new midsize SUV and a 7-seater SUV. This MPV will be largely manufactured locally, so it will be priced competitively.