April 2023 saw some really exciting new car launches – from the Maruti Suzuki Fronx to the MG Comet EV and the 2023 Lexus R. The months ahead are set to see a lot more action from several carmakers with plenty of global unveilings and price announcements lined up. Maruti has the all-new Jimny launching next, Tata Motors will further populate its CNG line-up with two new models, and we’ll get some long-due facelifts as well.
So, here’s a rundown of all new cars and SUVs that are going to be unveiled or launched in the coming months.
1. Maruti Suzuki Jimny launch – May
The Jimny is arguably the most awaited new launch of the entire year. In a way, it is a spiritual successor to the Maruti Gypsy, but one that has been specifically developed for India with a five-door body style. Sure, that adds to the practicality,
Major Highlights
- Maruti wouldn’t have it any other way – but the Jimny will still be a lifestyle vehicle as a no-nonsense off-roader with a ladder-frame chassis and low-range 4×4.
- It will use the 105hp, 1.5-litre K15B petrol engine with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed torque converter automatic gearbox.
- Prices are expected to range between Rs 10 lakh-12 lakh, ex-showroom.
2. BMW M2 launch – May
The second-generation M2 (G87) will be introduced by BMW in India as a complete import. The new M2 will arrive in India in its standard configuration, in contrast to the previous generation, which was offered in the most expensive Competition model.
Major Highlights
- A 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six engine with 460 horsepower and 550 lb-ft of torque will power the M2.
- The eight-speed Steptronic transmission will be standard, and a six-speed manual transmission will be an option.
- Most importantly, it will be the last BMW M division model with a pure combustion engine. Ex-showroom, the M2 is expected to cost around Rs. 1 crore.
3. Tata Altroz CNG launch – May
Tata Motors is getting ready to introduce the Altroz CNG car, India’s third premium hatchback equipped with a CNG kit from the factory, as CNG gains more traction in the market. The Altroz CNG has already been reserved by the manufacturer for a nominal amount of Rs 21,000; conveyances will start in May, with costs set to be declared before that.
Major Highlights
- The CNG kit will be available from Tata Motors on the Altroz’s XE, XM+, XZ, and XZ+ trims.
- The highest-spec version of the Altroz will come standard with alloy wheels, auto air conditioning, a sunroof, and even six airbags.
- The Altroz CNG will be fueled by a 1.2-liter, 3-chamber motor that puts out 77hp and 97Nm in CNG mode, and will come mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox.
4. Volkswagen Taigun new variants launch – June
As with the Virtus, the Taigun will also be getting the 1.5 turbo-petrol engine car with manual and automatic gearboxes on more trims to widen the accessibility of the more powerful engine. The Taigun will also get the limited-run ‘GT Edge Limited Collection’ with two new paint schemes – Deep Black Pearl and Carbon Steel Matte.
Major Highlights
- There will also be two new editions called the Trail Concept and Sport Concept: the former gets rugged decals on its rear three quarters, while the latter gets chequered flag-inspired decals on the bottom half of the doors and rear fender.
- Additionally, all variants of the Taigun will also get the Lava Blue paint shade. Prices for all these new editions will be announced in June.
5. Kia Seltos facelift launch – June/July
Since its introduction in India in 2019, the Kia Seltos has not undergone any alterations to its exterior design. And keeping in mind that a facelift for the Seltos car has been around universally since mid-2022, sending it off here by June or July this year is at last anticipated.
Major Highlights
- The Seltos will get a new connected layout with two screens inside, a new center console, and possibly even an ADAS suite.
- The existing 1.5-liter gasoline and diesel engines will continue to be used, but a new 1.5-liter turbo petrol engine with 160 horsepower and 253 nm of torque will also be available.