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- Punch Facelift launched in January
- Maruti to enter the segment within the next two years
Refreshed Players in the Segment
The entry-level SUV segment has got its biggest refresh ever, since the Tata Punch was launched in 2021. Both the Punch and the Exter have undergone mid-life upgrades comprising an updated feature list, new design elements, and, in the case of the Punch, a segment-first turbo-petrol engine.
Package Upgrades
Apart from segment-standard features, both have got upgraded digital screens, dual-tone interiors, wireless phone mirroring, connected car technology, panoramic sunroof, TPMS, and USB-C charging ports at the rear. The Punch, in addition to all of this, also gets paddle shifters for the turbo AT, and it also has an EV powertrain on offer.
Across both models, Hyundai and Tata have approached the issue of reclaiming boot space with the same technique, but with different routes. Tata has used its twin-cylinder technology, while Hyundai has approached this with its HY-CNG system. Both reclaim roughly the same amount of boot space, and both have an underbody spare tyre.
Raising the Game
The Punch is one of the most successful cars in the segment. While the Exter’s sales are respectable, they are nowhere the month-on-month figures that the Punch clocks. This upgrade is expected to boost Hyundai’s numbers significantly. What is evident, though, is that the Punch has the upper hand, although this may also be due to Tata reporting both ICE and EV numbers combined, but that’s their advantage when it comes to pure volumes. What this means for the rest of the segment, which is mostly non-SUV-styled vehicles, is that they have to raise their offerings to match what these two vehicles bring to the table. Their aces will have to be on the features front, as this is the only avenue open for extension, without incurring a penalty in terms of dimensions or engine capacity.
Maruti to Join the Game
Maruti will join this SUV game within the next two years, with a rival to the Tata Punch. The SUV is expected to offer boxy styling, CNG/CBG power, and it will even have an electric version. This mini SUV will stand alongside the Swift in a similar price category, but it will get a higher billing when launched.