5 Hot Upcoming Suv’s Ready to Take DownMahindra XUV700

The Mahindra XUV700 has gained immense popularity among Indian car buyers, making it a top contender in the 7-seater mid-size SUV segment. With competition from vehicles like the Tata Safari, MG Hector Plus, and Hyundai Alcazar, the XUV700’s modern features, strong road presence, and reliable powertrain have helped it carve a niche in the market. However, several leading car brands like Hyundai, Kia, Maruti Suzuki, Toyota, and Renault are gearing up to launch new 7-seater SUVs to rival the XUV700. Let’s take a closer look at these upcoming competitors.

1. Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara 7-Seater SUV

Maruti Suzuki is developing a 7-seater SUV based on the Grand Vitara, expected to launch in India next year. Codenamed Y17, this three-row SUV will use Suzuki’s Global C platform, sharing powertrains with the current Grand Vitara model. The new SUV will be longer to accommodate the extra seating, and it will feature either a 1.5-litre K15C mild-hybrid petrol engine or a 1.5-litre 3-cylinder strong hybrid engine.

2. Hyundai 7-Seater Hybrid SUV

Hyundai is working on a new 7-seater hybrid SUV, expected to be available in the next 2-3 years. Known internally as Ni1i, this three-row SUV will sit above the Alcazar in Hyundai's lineup. Positioned to compete with the Mahindra XUV700 and Tata Safari, the new SUV will be manufactured at Hyundai’s Talegaon facility. It may feature a 1.6-litre strong hybrid engine, commonly seen in international Hyundai and Kia models, although it could also incorporate a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine with hybrid technology for more affordable pricing.

3. Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder-Based 7-Seater SUV

Following Maruti Suzuki's lead, Toyota will offer a 7-seater variant of the Urban Cruiser Hyryder. This new SUV, expected to launch around the same time as the Grand Vitara 7-seater, will be based on the Global C platform. The vehicle will come with a 1.5-litre K15C naturally aspirated petrol engine and a 1.5-litre strong hybrid engine, similar to the Hyryder’s current offerings. Expect updates to the design and cabin layout, as well as new features to enhance its appeal in the competitive 7-seater market.

4. Kia 7-Seater SUV

Kia, a sister brand to Hyundai, is also preparing a new 7-seater SUV, expected to rival the XUV700. Internally codenamed MQ4i, this SUV will be placed above the Seltos in Kia’s portfolio. It is likely to borrow a strong hybrid powertrain from the international Kia Sorento. The new Kia SUV will also share design elements and features with the Sorento, bringing a sleek and modern look to the SUV segment.

5. Renault Bigster 7-Seater SUV

Renault will introduce a 7-seater variant of the Dacia Bigster, known as the Renault Bigster, expected to launch in 2026. The Bigster will be based on the CMF-B platform and share its design elements with the Duster. The 7-seater model will be 230 mm longer than the Duster, with an extended wheelbase, and will feature a similar powertrain. The Renault Bigster is expected to be a direct competitor to the Mahindra XUV700 in the mid-size SUV segment.