The Indian car market is set for an exciting month this October with several new launches lined up, continuing the trend from the past few months. If you’re considering purchasing a vehicle this festive season, here’s a list of the top 5 cars and SUVs to keep an eye on:
1. Nissan Magnite Facelift
Launching on October 4, 2024, the facelifted Nissan Magnite retains its original silhouette but comes with refreshed design elements. The SUV will feature a redesigned grille, bumper, and headlights, along with newly styled 16-inch alloy wheels. Other updates include LED taillights, a revised tailgate, and new rear bumper designs. Inside, expect a larger touchscreen infotainment system, a revised digital instrument cluster, wireless charging, and leather upholstery with a new color scheme.
Two engine options will remain: a 1.0-liter NA petrol engine with 72 PS and a 1.0-liter turbo petrol engine offering 100 PS. Transmission choices include a 5-speed manual, AMT, and CVT.
2. Kia Carnival
Kia’s luxury MPV, the fourth-gen Kia Carnival, will debut on October 3, 2024, via the CBU route with a price tag expected to exceed ₹50 lakh (ex-showroom). Pre-bookings are open with a deposit of ₹2 lakh.
Offered in two variants, Limousine and Limousine Plus, the Carnival will be powered by a 2.2-liter CRDi turbocharged diesel engine producing 193 hp and 441 Nm of torque. Features include dual 12.3-inch curved displays, three-zone climate control, a 12-speaker Bose sound system, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and captain seats with heating and ventilation. Safety will be bolstered by 8 airbags, ADAS Level 2, and all-wheel disc brakes.
3. Kia EV9
Launching alongside the Carnival, the Kia EV9, an all-electric SUV, will be imported as a CBU and priced from ₹75 lakh (ex-showroom). It boasts a 99.8 kWh battery offering a range of 561 km. Equipped with dual motors for AWD, it delivers 384 hp and 700 Nm of torque. This luxury electric SUV will feature second-row captain’s chairs with massage functions and is expected to rival the Mercedes EQE SUV and BMW iX.
4. BYD eMAX 7
The BYD eMAX 7 MPV will be another electric addition to the market. It is likely to feature a 71.8 kWh battery, delivering a range of up to 530 km. The MPV will come with a 204 hp electric motor and minor design tweaks, including new LED headlights and connected rear lighting. Interior highlights include leatherette upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and a redesigned steering wheel.
5. Mercedes-Benz E-Class LWB
Set to launch on October 7, 2024, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class LWB (Long Wheelbase) will offer a more spacious cabin due to its increased length, with powered reclining rear seats featuring an ottoman function. The luxury sedan will be available with a 2.0-liter turbo petrol engine (204 hp) or a 2.0-liter turbo diesel (197 hp), both paired with 48V mild-hybrid tech and a 9-speed automatic transmission. It will feature multiple digital screens, ambient lighting, massaging seats, and multi-zone climate control.
