SUVs are experiencing a significant surge in demand in the Indian market, prompting automakers to continually introduce new models. This year, top auto manufacturers are gearing up to launch three new 7-seater SUVs. Curious about which models are on the way and their launch timelines? Let’s find out!
MG Gloster Facelift
Kicking off our list is the MG Gloster, a feature-packed SUV that has struggled against competitors like the Toyota Fortuner. MG is set to unveil the updated Gloster by November 2024. The facelift will bring a boxy design inspired by the Maxus LDV90, featuring a new grille, redesigned front and rear lamps, and fresh alloy wheels for a more robust appearance.
Inside, the Gloster is already well-equipped, but we can expect a few tweaks, including a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment unit and a new digital instrument cluster. Other interior highlights will include a large panoramic sunroof, electrically adjustable seats with memory functions, multi-zone AC, heated and ventilated seats, dual wireless chargers, and more. The MG Gloster Facelift is expected to be priced between ₹48 lakh and ₹55 lakh (on-road, Mumbai).
Jeep Meridian Facelift
Next on our list is the Jeep Meridian, another competitor in the Toyota Fortuner arena. Jeep has already begun pre-bookings for the updated model, with a price starting at ₹50,000. The launch is anticipated around this year’s festive season.
The facelift will include subtle cosmetic updates inside and out, along with potential new features like front and rear dash cams, an air purifier, and Level 2 ADAS that offers adaptive cruise control, forward collision braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind spot monitoring.
The updated Meridian will likely retain its existing features, such as a 10.1-inch floating infotainment unit, digital instrument cluster, dual-zone climate control, a 360-degree camera, and various drive modes. The launch price is expected to be ₹24.99 lakh (ex-showroom).
Toyota Fortuner
Rounding out our list is the highly anticipated update to the Toyota Fortuner, the reigning mass-market king among SUVs. While the brand hasn’t officially announced the launch date, we expect the new Fortuner to debut by November 2024. This updated model will introduce a new 48V hybrid system paired with the 2.8-litre diesel engine, enhancing both power and fuel efficiency.
While the international version of the Fortuner will see no major exterior changes, we anticipate some cosmetic updates for the Indian market. Inside, new features like a 360-degree camera, a larger touchscreen infotainment system, ventilated seats, and an ADAS suite are expected. Pricing for the mild hybrid variant is projected to start at ₹40 lakh and could go up to ₹53 lakh (on-road, Mumbai).
Upcoming 7-Seater SUVs in 2025
Several automakers are planning to introduce new seven-seater SUVs in 2025. Notable brands like Toyota, Maruti Suzuki, and Renault are set to roll out their latest offerings, promising spacious and feature-rich interiors.
Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara 7-Seater
Currently, Maruti Suzuki offers the popular 5-seater Grand Vitara, which has garnered immense popularity for its design, features, and fuel efficiency. The brand plans to launch a larger 7-seater version next year, featuring a hybrid setup and manufactured at Maruti’s Kharkhoda Plant. Expect a slight price increase over the existing Grand Vitara.
Toyota 7-Seater SUV
Toyota India is gearing up to launch two new SUVs in 2025. One will be a 7-seater model, while the other will be an electric version based on the Urban SUV concept. The upcoming Toyota 7-seater is expected to be a larger variant of the Urban Cruiser Hyryder, likely powered by a 1.5-litre K15C petrol engine with a mild hybrid setup, alongside a 1.5-litre Atkinson Cycle engine with a strong hybrid system.
Renault Bigster 7-Seater
The Dacia Bigster recently made its global debut at the Paris Motor Show, and for the Indian market, it could be launched as the Renault Duster in 2025. While the global model was revealed in a 5-seater layout, the Indian version is expected to offer a 7-seater option. Under the hood, it may feature a 1.3-litre turbo petrol engine with an AWD setup or a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. A hybrid option may also be available in the future, with expected pricing ranging from ₹14 lakh to ₹22 lakh (ex-showroom) in India.