Over the last few years, the average Indian car-buyer has been increasingly fascinated by MPVs. And this has come as a boon for MPV makers across the globe. One of the biggest automobile markets in the world and the topmost market with a high disposable income, India ranks high in the marketing and sales plans of all automobile majors. Hence no wonder that 2018 will see some big-ticket MPV launches. So, get ready to feast your eyes on this eye-popping list of new MPVs coming to India next year.
- MARUTI WAGONR 7 SEATER – Expected Launch: Late 2018
The WagonR 7 seater is likely to be sub-4m, powered by both petrol and diesel engine, and with both manual and automatic options. With high ground clearance, roomy interior with upgraded music system, GPS navigation, featuring 14-inch alloy wheels; the WagonR will get 3-row smart seating.
- MARUTI ERTIGA – Expected Launch: August 2018
Competing against Mahindra U321 MPV, the next-gen Ertiga is likely to be based on the lightweight HEARTECT platform. A bigger size will lead to more legroom and boot space. This will be equipped with a 1.3/1.5 liter diesel (developed in-house) and 1.4 litre petrol options, a 5-speed manual gearbox and will feature a refreshed exterior and interior.
- MAHINDRA U321 – Expected Launch: January 2018
Ready to take on the Innova Crysta, this top-spec MPV is expected to be a monocoque and powered by both diesel and petrol engine options. Sitting on a longer wheelbase, U321 will exhibit a boxy design with curves, sharing most design cues from Mahindra XUV500 and accentuating comfort and convenience, in line with its ambitions of global success.
- MAHINDRA TUV300 PLUS – Expected Launch: February 2018
The TUV 300 Plus is a longer version of the TUV300 compact SUV but will be sold as an MPV, targeting to replace Xylo and competing with the Maruti Ertiga. With a few exterior and interior changes and a new curvaceous look, the MPV will be available in multiple seating layouts with front facing third row seats as an option. Likely to get a new 1.99-litre diesel engine and equipped with the intelli-hybrid start-stop system, the TUV300 Plus promises to come with multiple variants.
- RENAULT RBC – Expected Launch: Late 2018
Renault’s new compact seven-seater MPV is based on the CMF-A platform, allowing it to be flexible and cost effective – as a part of its ‘Drive the Future’ plan. Its practical rugged features, longer wheelbase, muscular styling, and power train options with premium features reflects this MPV’s readiness to face the tough-to-please Indian MPV lover.
- TOYOTA ALPHARD – Expected Launch: Late 2018
The new Toyota Alphard hybrid MPV with premium and bold design is ready to lead the luxury MPV segment in India. Plush interiors, efficient hybrid powertrain, spacious enough to accommodate 8 passengers and and aggressive exterior make this vehicle futuristic and luxurious in the truest sense.
