Growing to clock 54,850 units in February 2021 as against the sale of 27,273 units in the corresponding month last year, the compact SUV segment has come to include the participation of almost all the manufacturers in the country today. The Kushaq marks the latest entry, and clearly the most exciting in terms of what it has to offer. A part of the segment that arguably is the most trending as far as passenger vehicles are concerned, the Kushaq is indicative of the direction in which the segment of compact SUVs is heading in. It is was until recently led by Maruti Brezza, a compact SUV segment that shares its platform as well as the assembly line with the Toyota Urban Cruiser. Said to have grown at the expense of mid-size sedans (including compact sedans) and premium hatchbacks, the compact SUV segment consists of no less than 11 offerings today. They are proof of the fact that they are not missed by any manufacturer. Overtaking the Maruti Brezza as the most selling compact SUV in April 2021, the Hyundai Venue has demonstrated how manufacturers like Hyundai, which began by selling high-end SUVs like Terracan and Santa Fe in India, are warming up to the trend of compact SUVs that is unique to India. Clearly so, when one understands that the Renault Duster was born out of the highly popular Renault Clio as a cost-effective crossover in Europe. It soon challenged more premium offerings there like the Skoda Yeti. Highlighting Indian automobile buyers’ psyche of cost consciousness, the compact SUVs like Kushaq are highlighting new growth prospects, technologies and features.
Tech and price trends
Considering the starting price of Brezza and Venue at INR 7.39 lakh and INR 6.92 lakh approximately, the Kushaq, at a starting price of Rs.10.5 lakh is certain to appear costly. Zac Hollis, Skoda’s director of Sales, Service & Marketing, has informed through a tweet that even the basic ‘Active’ variant carries a significant additional equipment over its competitors (see the comparison chart). The Kushaq is being offered with a TSI technology engine right at the basic level, he has added. Being offered with a cylinder deactivation technology that shuts two out of the four cylinders by sensing the load (via the accelerator pedal input) to ensure superior fuel efficiency and lower carbon footprint, the Kushaq reflects a technology trend that is taking shape among compact SUVs as new products join the fray. So, if the Renault Duster and one or two other vehicles in the compact SUV segment offer a turbo-petrol engine like the Kushaq does, right at the basic level, a majority offer a MPI engine. The technology trend concerning compact SUVs ironically also highlights a stress on petrol engines. The BSVI emission norms and decreasing price gap between petrol and diesel are said to be the reasons. Presenting the superior drive-ability and fuel efficiency of diesel are the turbo-petrol (also termed as Gasoline Direct Injection) models and variants. In the Kushaq, Skoda has termed the technology coinage as TSI.
If the compact SUV offerings like the Kushaq, Brezza, Toyota Urban Cruiser, Duster and many others highlight a rising trend of petrol only variants in-line with the reasons mentioned above, an amount of technological exploration is on in the area of transmissions. As urban buyers warm up to compact SUVs and make a shift over from sedans and hatchbacks, almost every model being offered on the market is available with an option of an automatic gearbox. The highlight of this trend is the mushrooming of dual-clutch automated transmissions that support sporty and agile driving experience. As the first product to spring from Volkswagen Group’s India 2.0 project (see box), the Kushaq, is available with a choice of the much acclaimed DSG automated transmission. Apart from just one or two vehicles in its segment offering a CVT ‘auto’ transmission, and what could be termed as conventional ‘torque convertor’-based auto-box, many compact SUVs are offering their version of DSG automated transmission by calling them as DCT (Dual-Clutch Transmission). Most basic trims in the segment are offered with a 5- or 6-speed manual transmission.
Feature trends
Almost all the compact SUVs being offered in India are front-wheel drive with the engine and trans-axle located transversely at the front. The only four-wheel drive compact SUV, Duster, has already lost its arrangement to power both the axles. A look at the powertrain arrangement of the compact SUVs and their monocoque body construction, and it will be clear that they could be described as front-wheel hatchbacks with ‘lift-up’ suspension, an appropriate body style, and bigger dia. wheels and higher ground clearance. Most compact SUVs are equipped with McPherson strut suspension at the front and a twist beam axle at the rear. The Kushaq is no exception. It is keen to set itself apart from the Korean, Japanese and homegrown offerings like the Mahindra XUV300 with safety, quality, design and technology, according to Hollis. Offering TSI engines and DSG transmission, which were until now found on more premium offerings, the Kushaq, reflects its technological composition and the fact that it is the first vehicle to roll-out of the India-centric project set up with an investment of Euro-one billion, in its price positioning. The compact SUV with the lowest starting price – the Hyundai Venue at Rs.6.92 lakh approximately, offers a 1.2-litre MPI petrol engine at the basic level. It is mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox.
When it comes to features, none of the compact SUVs on offer, including the Kushaq, is immune to the fact there is a direct bearing of price. The basic variants get what could be termed as ‘essential’ features whereas the top-end variants get a variety of ‘bells and whistles. Put together all the them and they include voice command, LED headlamps and tail lamps, rear view monitor, airbags, ABS and EBD, electronic parking brake, air purifier, start/stop, telematics, sunroof, TPMS, ESC, rear parking sensors, VSM, hill-start assist, cruise control, keyless entry, rear parking camera, touchscreen infotainment system and others. A look at the features offered by the compact SUVs, and a clear trend is evident in terms of technology. This technology pertains to an ability to stay connected with an increasingly smarter use of telematics. Many compact SUVs offer satellite navigation, tracking and connectivity features that are unique to their manufacturers. Ford, for example, offers the SYNC connectivity technology on the EcoSport. What makes it interesting is that a lot of software work relating to the connectivity features and various other functions of these compact SUVs has happened in India. If the Brezza’s local content amounts to 98 percent, that of the Kushaq is 93 percent.
Summing up
Emerging as a hot-bed of style and technology (the Tata Nexon is also available as an electric compact SUV and the MG Hector as a hybrid compact SUV), the trend pertaining to compact SUVs is getting clearer and clearer with every new product introduction. It is underlying quality, safety, comfort, localisation (read as Atmanirbhar Bharat) and an ability to control costs.
Maruti Suzuki India, AU Small Finance Bank Launch Suhana Safar Initiative
- By MT Bureau
- July 02, 2026
AU Small Finance Bank has partnered with Maruti Suzuki India, the country’s largest passenger vehicle manufacturer, to introduce 'Suhana Safar', a scheme that links Recurring Deposits (RD) to auto loans. The initiative is aimed at first-time car buyers and applies to the Alto K10, S-Presso, Celerio and WagonR models.
Under the programme, customers open an RD account with AU Small Finance Bank and deposit a monthly amount equivalent to the future car EMI for 3 to 6 months. Upon maturity, the accumulated funds, which have earned interest, are used as the down payment for the vehicle, after which the bank provides the auto loan.
The scheme allows customers to save and earn interest while demonstrating repayment capacity before committing to a loan. The bank also uses this process to evaluate creditworthiness.
AU Small Finance Bank offers RD interest rates of 4.75 percent to 7.40 percent per annum for the general public, and 5.25 percent to 7.90 percent per annum for senior citizens.
Skoda Kodiaq RS Launched At INR 6.69 Million In India
- By MT Bureau
- July 02, 2026
Czech automaker Skoda Auto India has introduced the new Kodiaq RS, the first SUV to carry the performance-focused RS badge in the Indian market at INR 6.69 million (ex-showroom).
The company limited the initial release to 50 units, which were sold out within six minutes of launch. This release aligns with the 50th anniversary of the RS badge and the 125th year of the brand’s motorsport history.
Ashish Gupta, Brand Director, Skoda Auto India, said, “The RS badge represents an iconic performance legacy. Bringing it to our flagship 4x4, all-terrain, 7-seater SUV combines luxury, capability and motorsport DNA in one offering. The overwhelming response, with all units sold out in minutes, reflects the strong enthusiasm among customers.”
The Kodiaq RS features a 2.0-litre TSI engine producing 195 kW (265 PS) and 400 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed DSG transmission and all-wheel drive. The vehicle accelerates from zero to 100 kmph in 6.3 seconds, with a top speed of 231 kmph.
The vehicle is equipped with progressive steering and the latest-generation Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) Plus, which allows drivers to adjust damping characteristics. The Driving Mode Select offers multiple settings, including Eco, Comfort, Normal, Sport, Individual, Snow and a dedicated Off-Road mode.
The exterior includes black accents on the grille frame, mirrors, window frames, roof rails, and the D-pillar. The front features a bumper with black elements and a horizontal light strip in the grille. The rear includes a full-width reflector, blacked-out lettering, and stainless-steel exhaust tips. The SUV is fitted with 20-inch Elias alloy wheels and is available in Moon White, Magic Black, Velvet Red and Steel Grey.
Honda Cars India Reports 5,243 Unit Wholesales In June 2026
- By MT Bureau
- July 01, 2026
Honda Cars India (HCIL), a leading passenger vehicle manufacturer, has announced wholesales of 8,788 units in June 2026.
In the domestic market, the company sold 5,243 units and 3,545 units for export, which marks 71.5 percent YoY, when the company sold 4,618 units domestically and exported 506 units.
Kunal Behl, Vice-President, Marketing & Sales, Honda Cars India, said, "The launch of new City and India Premiere of global SUV Honda ZR-V has generated strong momentum for our overall sales including Amaze and Elevate during June, driven by healthy customer demand and a positive market response. With Monsoon conditions expected to improve during July, we hope to sustain this positive momentum in the months ahead.
“The deliveries of ZR-V are also scheduled to begin from July. It will draw discerning new customers and prospects into Honda showrooms, enhancing our premium brand appeal and unlocking new growth opportunities,” he added.
Renault India Reports 4,063 Unit Wholesales For June 2026
- By MT Bureau
- July 01, 2026
French automotive company Renault India has recorded 4,063 domestic wholesale units in June 2026, a 55 percent YoY increase compared to the previous year. This also marks the 10th consecutive month of double-digit growth for the company.
Interestingly, for H1 CY2026, the company reported sales of 25,844 units, representing 61 percent YoY growth.
During June, Renault India began exports of the Duster, dispatching 750 units to South Africa. The company stated that this performance reflects customer response to its product strategy and demand across its portfolio.
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