Thinking about buying a new Tata Punch? Wait! Tata’s sub-compact SUV will have three new rivals in the coming time. But will they trouble Punch? Let’s have a look –
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Upcoming Tata Punch Rivals – Hyundai Exter Facelift
Hyundai will be offering an update to some models from its portfolio, one of them is the Exter. Industry sources suggest the Exter getting an update by early 2027.
The new generation model is expected to be more advanced with new technology and features. It is too early to speculate, but we expect the new generation Exter to be longer and taller, along with some cosmetic changes like a new grille, connected DRLs and LED headlamps, new alloy wheels, rear LED tail lamps and more.
On the inside, the new model is expected to include new upholstery, keeping the same dashboard design and overall cabin. Having said that, some new features to be added on the sub-compact SUV includes a 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment, 9.9-inch digital instrument cluster, ventilated front seats, 360-degree camera, reclining rear seats and more in its package. The new model is also expected to offer additional safety kit, but the inclusion of ADAS seems highly unlikely as it might increase its final price.
The updated Hyundai Exter is expected to retain the current powertrain options. It is powered by a 1.2-litre NA petrol engine (81bhp & 113Nm) mated to a manual and AMT gearbox, the model also gets a CNG engine mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox unit.
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Hyundai Inster
Hyundai is not looking to dominate the Tata Punch not only in the ICE version, but also in its electric form. The brand has revealed that it will be launching a new entry level EV, hinting towards a possible launch of Inster.
The Hyundai Inster will be based on the brand’s E-GMP platform shared by Kia too, for small EVs. Talking about the dimensions, the Inster will be slightly longer than the Exter, hence liberating more space on the inside too.
Talking about the design, on the front – the Inster will have a circular LED DRLs at the front with LED headlamps, it also features pixel-like dots which work as turn indicators. At the rear, the sub-compact SUV gets unique block-shaped tail lamps, reverse lights and reflectors are placed in the circular element on the rear bumper.
While its exterior is kept minimalistic, the brand has now tried to put everything on its inside. Some notable features on the model expected to continue on the Indian models are – the two 10.25-inch screens housing the infotainment system and digital instrument standout. Other interior highlights include a three-spoke steering wheel, a gear lever behind the steering and HVAC buttons. Features on the Inster include sunroofs, a heated front seat & steering wheel, ambient lighting and ADAS.
In the international market, the model comes with two battery pack options – 42kWh and a 49kWh option, with the bigger battery pack delivering a range of 350km on a single charge. Hyundai would try to price it aggressively to have an advantage in the segment.
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Upcoming Tata Punch Rivals – Maruti Punch Rival
Apart from Hyundai, Maruti is also looking to position its new sub-compact SUV to rival the Punch. Earlier, there were assumptions regarding a boxy Maruti SUV – Hustlr to be launched to compete with Punch, but later it was assumed to be scrapped for India.
The new model is codenamed as Y43 currently, once launched it will sit below the Fronx in the brand’s lineup. The brand has not yet shared a launch timeline for this model, but we expect in the coming time the brand might reveal some details.
The sub-compact SUV will be based on the brand’s Heartect platform, which is underpinned by several other Maruti models. While the model is still in the drawing room, at present there is no information about its design or feature lists and even the powertrains. Being a Punch rival, we expect the new model to be similar to the dimension of its rival. Moreover, it can have a fair boxy design, with minimalist approach on the outside. Similarly on the inside, the brand will try to include some normal features to keep the pricing intact.
Talking about the powertrains, this micro SUV could get the new 1.2-litre petrol engine from the Maruti Swift and Dzire. Unlike the old 4 cylinder engine, the new is a 3-cylinder offering a better mileage, and producing 80bhp & 113Nm. Transmission duties will be handled by a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT gearbox.
Also Read – 6 New SUVs Coming To Rival Hyundai Creta!
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