Skoda Slavia Facelift: If you are planning to buy a new car, hold off for a bit; the coming weeks promise to be nothing short of a festive season for the auto market. Several major companies are preparing to launch new variants of their popular models, while other brands are introducing entirely new vehicles. From Skoda to MG, Kia, Maruti Suzuki, and Tata, every company is set to offer something special in its respective segment. The Indian auto market is poised for an exciting few weeks, with companies preparing to roll out a host of new options across the sedan, SUV, hybrid, and electric car categories.
Skoda Slavia Facelift
Skoda is set to give its popular sedan, the Slavia, a significant update after quite some time, with the launch date confirmed for August 18. The new model will feature substantial changes to both the exterior and the cabin. On the outside, expect a new grille, sleeker LED headlamps, redesigned alloy wheels, and connected LED tail lamps.
Inside the cabin, there may be a new interior theme and a larger digital instrument cluster. Regarding the powertrain, the existing 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engines will be retained; however, the 1.0-litre engine is expected to be paired with a new 8-speed automatic gearbox.
MG Hector Hawk EV
JSW MG Motor India's next major move is scheduled for August 26, when the company will launch its new 7-seater electric SUV. Likely to be named the Hector Hawk EV, it could be the first production car built on MG's new ADAPT platform.
The battery pack may have a capacity of around 69.2 kWh, potentially offering a range of up to 530 kilometres. The premium cabin is expected to include a large touchscreen, a panoramic sunroof, connected car technology, Level 2 ADAS, and a full 7-seater layout. Kia Sorento Hybrid
Kia is set to enter the premium 3-row SUV segment with its new Sorento, scheduled for launch on September 4. Notably, this will be Kia's first strong-hybrid car in India. It is expected to feature a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol strong-hybrid powertrain capable of generating a combined output of approximately 238 PS.
Additionally, a 2.2-litre diesel engine option might also be offered. The feature list is likely to include twin 12.3-inch displays, a panoramic sunroof, Level 2 ADAS, and both 6-seater and 7-seater configurations. The company has also confirmed that the Sorento Hybrid will be launched with an AWD system.
Maruti Suzuki Baleno Facelift
Maruti Suzuki is set to launch an updated version of its best-selling hatchback, the Baleno, on September 5. This marks the first major update for the Baleno since 2022. The front is expected to feature a new grille, an updated bumper, and newly designed alloy wheels, while changes to the rear LED tail-lamps are also anticipated.
Inside the cabin, the car is expected to offer new upholstery, a refined finish, and a larger 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Regarding the powertrain, it will retain the existing petrol and CNG options; however, whether hybrid technology will be included will only be clarified on the day of the launch.
Tata Tigor Facelift
Tata Motors may also launch a facelifted version of the Tigor ahead of the festive season. The updated model is expected to incorporate several design and feature elements from the recently launched Tiago facelift. The new Tigor could feature a redesigned front fascia, sleek LED lighting, new alloy wheels, and an updated rear design.
Meanwhile, the cabin could feature amenities such as a large touchscreen, a digital instrument cluster, wireless charging, and safety features like six airbags. As for the engine, no major mechanical changes are currently expected for the petrol and CNG variants.