A slew of launches is already awaiting car enthusiasts with the dawn of the New Year. With 2020 putting a spanner in the works for most carmakers, especially their new launch schedules, there is a huge line-up awaiting to descend on to Indian roads this year. Most of them will be on the radar of car customers as either they are newer versions of popular models or entering a segment of interest.
Here’s looking at those we will see first in 2021:
1. Toyota Fortuner
The popular SUV is up for a mid-life refresh. Apart from the new front and rear design, expect some more features than the outgoing model-new touchscreen and wireless charger. No changes expected in the powertrain options. The price is expected to go up by around 10%.
2. Jeep Compass
The popular, made-for-India SUV is going to get another model year upgrade. Expect marginal cosmetic changes and some more features.
3. Mercedes A-Class
The brand returns to India but instead of a hatchback, it will now be a sedan. A-Class “limo” was first unveiled two years ago for markets where a hatchback cannot command as much value as a premium sedan can. While we seem to have warmed up to the idea of the 10-lakh price range, it is still conservative-thinking in the luxury market.
4. BMW 3 Series GL
GL stands for Grand Limousine or in layman terms, extended the wheelbase of the current 3 Series. This is designed to attract those who love the sportiness of the 3 Series but not the relative lack of legroom at the rear compared to an E-Class.
5. Tata Gravitas
In 2019, Tata launched its Land Rover-platform derived Harrier SUV. In 2020, the automatic gearbox version arrived. Continuing further, it is now launching the Harrier with 3 rows of seats. This will be longer than a regular Harrier to make the third row practical. It is expected to have the same powertrain options as a Harrier.
6. Volvo S60
Back after a long break, the S60 returns albeit in an all-new avatar. This is only the second sedan in the Swedish brand’s predominantly SUV line-up. Now clearly looks like a smaller S90. Grunty petrol engine and well-specced is expected to be launched in March.
7. Renault Kiger
The action-packed sub-4m SUV segment gets another new entrant in 2021. Kiger is Renault’s version of the Nissan Magnite. Although they share platforms, expect the French version to look and feel totally different from its Japanese counterpart.
Girish Karkera