Automobile Desk: If you are planning to buy a great family car or a new SUV with powerful features for yourself in the coming days, then something very special is going to happen in the automobile sector of the country. India's two most prominent automobile manufacturing companies, Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai Motor, are preparing to make a big bet in the market with their respective new models. On one hand, Maruti Suzuki has intensified work on its first electric MPV codenamed YMC, while on the other hand, Hyundai is also going to introduce its new mid-size SUV 'Bayon'.
Talking about Hyundai, the company is going to make the global debut of its new car Bayon on October 12. Soon after, it will also be launched on Indian roads within the coming weeks. The curiosity about this vehicle among the customers can be gauged from the fact that its unofficial bookings have also been started with a token amount of only Rs 11,000.
According to the Indian market, the design of Hyundai Bayon may appear quite special and changed. While the model available in the global market has a slightly hatchback look, Indian auto experts believe that for the domestic market, it will be given a bold and muscular avatar of a proper SUV. Talking about the engine option, it is expected to get a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, which generates power of 115bhp and torque of 144Nm. The option of 6-speed manual and CVT automatic gearbox will be available with this powertrain. The most interesting thing is that Hyundai can also offer CNG variant in it. If this happens, it will become Hyundai's first factory-fitted CNG car to exceed 4-metres in length.
This SUV is not going to lag behind in terms of interior and tech features. In this, a new curved dual-screen setup can be given on the lines of Venue. It is also likely to include advanced technology like new three-spoke steering wheel, ventilated seats, sunroof, wireless charger, 360-degree camera and Level 2 ADAS for safety.
On the other hand, Maruti Suzuki is planning to make a big splash in the electric segment. The company may introduce its new 6-seater and 7-seater electric MPV codenamed YMC by the end of this year or early next year. This vehicle is being built on the same platform as Maruti's upcoming eVitara. In the Indian market, it will compete directly with vehicles like Kia's Carens Clavis EV.
The biggest strengths of this electric MPV of Maruti are going to be its range and battery options. According to reports, it can be launched in two battery packs – 49kWh and 61kWh. Once fully charged, this car will easily be able to provide a driving range of more than 500 kilometers, which will prove to be a practical option for families traveling on long journeys. This approximately 4.5 meter long MPV is expected to have features like ventilated front seats, powered driver seat, large touchscreen infotainment system, wireless smartphone connectivity and multiple airbags.