#electricsuvs

Our Best Electric SUVs Under $35k (2026) highlights top choices that deliver range, tech, and value without the luxury price tag.

Tata Motors, a leading Indian automaker, has achieved a significant milestone in the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) market. The company's two popular electric SUVs, the Punch EV and the Nexon EV, have experienced phenomenal sales success. Within just five months of its launch, the Punch EV has surpassed the impressive mark of 10,000 units sold. Meanwhile, its larger sibling, the Nexon EV, has reached a staggering total of over 68,000 units sold since its introduction in 2020. Tata Motors Celebrates EV Success A Winning Combination: SUVs Meet EVs This remarkable sales achievement underscores the growing demand for electric SUVs in India. SUVs have consistently enjoyed immense popularity among Indian car buyers, offering a blend of practicality, space, and driving dynamics. By combining the ever-increasing appeal of EVs with the established popularity of SUVs, Tata Motors has tapped into a winning formula. Feature-Packed and Safety-Focused: Punch EV and Nexon EV Offerings Both the Punch EV and Nexon EV boast an array of features designed to enhance the driving experience. The Nexon EV, the more premium offering, comes equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple Carplay connectivity. It also features a 10.25-inch digital driver's display, a premium 9-speaker JBL sound system, automatic climate control with rear vents, a wireless phone charger, a sunroof, and ventilated front seats for added comfort. The Punch EV, catering to a slightly different segment, offers a dual-screen setup with two 10.25-inch screens, one for the instrument cluster and the other dedicated to infotainment. Additional features include an air purifier for improved cabin air quality, a 6-speaker sound system, cruise control for effortless highway driving, ambient lighting for a personalized touch, and a sunroof to enhance the feeling of spaciousness. Safety remains a top priority for Tata Motors. Both the Punch EV and Nexon EV prioritize occupant protection with six airbags as standard equipment. They also come equipped with a 360-degree camera system for enhanced parking maneuverability, all-wheel disc brakes for optimal stopping power, and an electronic parking brake with auto-hold functionality for added convenience. Advanced driver-assistance features like blind spot monitoring, hill hold control, and hill descent control further contribute to a safe and confident driving experience. Both SUVs recently underwent rigorous crash testing conducted by Bharat NCAP, a prominent automotive safety rating agency in India. Impressively, both the Punch EV and Nexon EV achieved the highest possible rating of 5 stars, demonstrating their commitment to occupant safety. Performance and Range: Powering the Journey The Punch EV and Nexon EV cater to different requirements when it comes to performance and range. The Punch EV is offered with two battery pack options: a 25 kWh battery and a larger 35 kWh battery (Long Range). These battery packs provide a claimed range of 315 km (195 miles) and 421 km (262 miles), respectively, according to ARAI (Automotive Research Association of India) testing standards. The Nexon EV also offers two battery pack options: a 30 kWh battery (Medium Range) and a larger 40.5 kWh battery (Long Range). These battery packs offer a claimed range of 325 km (202 miles) and 465 km (289 miles), respectively, according to ARAI testing. Both SUVs feature multiple drive modes – Eco, City, and Sport – allowing drivers to optimize their driving experience for efficiency or performance. Additionally, they offer four levels of regenerative braking, enabling drivers to customize the level of energy recuperation during braking. Competitive Landscape and Pricing The Tata Punch EV occupies a price range of ₹10.99 lakh to ₹15.49 lakh (ex-showroom). Its primary competitor in the electric vehicle segment is the Citroen eC3. Additionally, it serves as a premium alternative to the Tata Tiago EV and MG Comet EV. The Tata Nexon EV finds itself competing directly with the Mahindra XUV400 EV in the electric SUV segment. Its price range of ₹14.49 lakh to ₹19.49 lakh (ex-showroom) positions it as a slightly more affordable option compared to the MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona Electric. FAQs: Q: What is the price range of the Tata Punch EV? A: The Tata Punch EV is priced between ₹10.99 lakh and ₹15.49 lakh (ex-showroom) in India. Q: What is the claimed range of the Tata Nexon EV? A: The Tata Nexon EV offers a claimed range of 325 km (202 miles) to 465 km (289 miles) depending on the battery pack option chosen. Q: What are the main competitors of the Tata Punch EV and Nexon EV? A: The Tata Punch EV competes with the Citroen eC3, Tata Tiago EV, and MG Comet EV. The Tata Nexon EV rivals the Mahindra XUV400 EV and serves as a more affordable alternative to the MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona Electric. Q: What are some of the challenges facing the Indian electric vehicle market? A: Limited charging infrastructure is a major concern. Additionally, higher upfront costs of electric vehicles compared to gasoline-powered counterparts can be a deterrent for some buyers.

Calling all luxury car enthusiasts! Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has just made waves in the Indian automotive market with the announcement of local assembly for the iconic Range Rover and Range Rover Sport SUVs. This strategic move promises not only to meet the surging demand from Indian buyers but also to deliver significant cost savings and reduced waiting periods. Range Rover and Range Rover Sport Made in India, Made for India: Benefits of Local Assembly Previously, JLR primarily manufactured its SUVs in Solihull, UK. However, by establishing a local assembly in India, they aim to cater specifically to the growing appetite for luxury SUVs among Indian consumers. This shift brings several advantages: Reduced Costs: Local assembly translates to lower production costs, allowing JLR to offer these premium vehicles at more attractive price points for Indian buyers. Savings can be substantial, with some variants experiencing price cuts of over Rs 50 lakh. Shorter Waiting Periods: Previously, Indian customers faced extended wait times due to import logistics. Local production significantly reduces these delays, ensuring a faster turnaround from order to delivery. Increased Availability: Local assembly has the potential to boost the overall availability of Range Rover and Range Rover Sport models in India, potentially leading to a wider selection for discerning buyers. A Breakdown of the Price Cuts: The cost savings associated with local assembly vary depending on the specific model and variant. Here's a closer look at the price reductions for the initial locally assembled models: ModelPrevious Price (ex-showroom)New Price (ex-showroom)Price DifferenceRange Rover Sport 3.0L Petrol Dynamic SERs 1.69 croreRs 1.40 croreRs 29 lakhRange Rover Sport 3.0L Diesel Dynamic SERs 1.69 croreRs 1.40 croreRs 29 lakhRange Rover 3.0L Petrol Autobiography LWBRs 3.16 croreRs 2.60 croreRs 56 lakhRange Rover 3.0L Diesel HSE LWBRs 2.81 croreRs 2.36 croreRs 45 lakh Powertrain Options: Maintaining Performance Standards The locally assembled Range Rover and Range Rover Sport will retain the same powerful and refined engines that have established their reputation for performance and luxury. Here's a quick overview of the engines available: 3.0L Turbo-Petrol Engine: Delivering 400 PS of power and 550 Nm of torque, this engine offers exhilarating performance for a smooth and responsive driving experience. 3.0L Diesel Engine: This powerhouse generates 350 PS of power and a staggering 700 Nm of torque, ideal for those seeking effortless power delivery and towing capability. Both engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and Land Rover's advanced all-wheel-drive system, ensuring optimal handling and control in all driving conditions. It's important to note that the 4.4L V8 turbo-petrol engine option will not be part of the local assembly program for now. A Booming Market: The Rise of Luxury SUVs in India The Indian luxury car market has witnessed a phenomenal rise in recent years, with Range Rover SUVs experiencing a surge in demand that has skyrocketed by a staggering 160% during the current financial year. This increased demand has fueled JLR's decision to localize production, allowing it to cater more effectively to the growing pool of Indian luxury car buyers. A Legacy of Excellence: Land Rover's Commitment to India JLR's commitment to the Indian market extends beyond local assembly. Since 2011, they have collaborated with Tata Motors to produce a selection of vehicles in India at the Chakan plant in Pune. This successful partnership has already resulted in the local assembly of popular JLR models like the Range Rover Velar and Range Rover Evoque. Looking Ahead: A Future of Electrification and Expansion Land Rover is at the forefront of automotive innovation, and their commitment to sustainability is evident in its development of a fully electric SUV. This exciting new model is expected to be unveiled by the end of 2024, further solidifying Land Rover's position as a leader in the luxury SUV segment. Additionally, an all-electric Range Rover Sport is slated for launch in 2025, although production for this model will remain in the UK plant. Frequently Asked Questions: What are the benefits of local assembly for Range Rover and Range Rover Sport in India? Local assembly offers several advantages, including reduced costs for buyers, shorter waiting periods, and potentially increased availability of these luxury SUVs. How much have prices been reduced for the locally assembled models? Price cuts vary depending on the model and variant, but some models see significant reductions exceeding Rs 50 lakh. What engines will be available in the locally assembled Range Rover and Range Rover Sport? The initial offerings will feature the powerful and refined 3.0L turbo-petrol and 3.0L diesel engines, both paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.

The Indian automotive market is a dynamic landscape, with car manufacturers constantly adapting their strategies to cater to evolving consumer preferences. In a recent development, Volkswagen has announced a shift in its approach to the Indian market, prioritizing premium offerings over venturing into the highly competitive sub-4m SUV segment. Let's delve deeper into this strategic decision and explore its implications for Volkswagen's future in India. The Allure (and Challenges) of the Sub-4m SUV Segment Earlier in 2024, news emerged regarding Skoda's development of a sub-4m SUV specifically for the Indian market. This sparked speculation about a potential Volkswagen equivalent, given the success of the Skoda-Volkswagen India 2.0 partnership, which utilizes the heavily localized MQB-A0-IN platform. However, Volkswagen has officially confirmed that they will not be entering the sub-4m SUV segment for now. This decision may seem surprising at first glance. The sub-4m SUV segment is a dominant force in the Indian market, attracting buyers with its combination of affordability, practicality, and compact size, ideal for navigating India's bustling cities. However, this segment is also fiercely competitive, with established players offering feature-packed vehicles at aggressive price points. Cracking this market requires a compelling value proposition and a willingness to compete on price, which might not align with Volkswagen's current brand positioning in India. Strategic Shift: Prioritizing Premium Models Volkswagen's decision to forgo the sub-4m SUV segment indicates a strategic shift towards focusing on premium offerings. This is evident in their current lineup, where the Volkswagen Virtus sedan serves as the most affordable option, with prices starting from ₹11.56 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). Moving forward, Volkswagen plans to further solidify its position in the premium segment by introducing models positioned above the Taigun SUV and Virtus sedan. This strategic shift aligns with Volkswagen's global brand image, which is associated with quality, technology, and performance. By focusing on premium offerings, Volkswagen seeks to cater to a growing segment of discerning Indian car buyers who value these attributes. What Lies Ahead for Volkswagen India? While the sub-4m SUV segment might be off the table for now, Volkswagen's India plans are far from stagnant. Here's a glimpse into what's on the horizon: New GT Variants: As announced during their recent Annual Brand Conference, Volkswagen plans to introduce a couple of new GT variants for the existing Virtus sedan and Taigun SUV. These sportier iterations are likely to cater to enthusiasts seeking a more performance-oriented driving experience. ID.4 Electric SUV: Marking a significant step towards electrification, Volkswagen will launch its first electric car in India later in 2024. The ID.4 electric SUV is anticipated to arrive as a full import, paving the way for a more sustainable future for Volkswagen India. Volkswagen's Current India Lineup As of today, Volkswagen offers three models in the Indian market: Virtus Sedan: This stylish sedan competes with popular rivals like the Hyundai Verna, Skoda Slavia, Honda City, and Maruti Ciaz. Taigun SUV: The Taigun takes on the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Honda Elevate, and Maruti Grand Vitara in the highly competitive compact SUV segment. Tiguan SUV: For buyers seeking a larger SUV with premium features, the Tiguan squares off against competitors like the Jeep Compass and Hyundai Tucson. FAQs: Q: Why is Volkswagen not entering the sub-4m SUV segment in India? A: While official reasons haven't been disclosed, the highly competitive nature of the segment and Volkswagen's focus on premium offerings are likely factors influencing this decision. Q: What are Volkswagen's plans for the Indian market? A: Volkswagen plans to focus on premium models, introducing new GT variants for the Virtus and Taigun. Additionally, they will launch their first electric car, the ID.4 SUV, in India later in 2024. Q: Why is Volkswagen not offering a sub-4m SUV in India? A: Volkswagen has decided to focus on premium models and believes that the sub-4m SUV segment presents significant challenges in terms of competition and value proposition. Q: What models does Volkswagen currently offer in India? A: Volkswagen's current lineup in India includes the Virtus sedan, Taigun SUV, and Tiguan SUV, catering to different segments of the market. Q: What are Volkswagen's plans for India? A: Volkswagen plans to introduce GT variants for existing models and launch its first all-electric car, the ID.4 SUV, in India later in 2024, signaling a shift towards sustainable mobility solutions.

Mahindra, a household name in the Indian automotive industry, is making serious strides in the electric vehicle (EV) space. Their recent trademark filings for a series of new names, XUV 7XO, XUV 5XO, XUV 3XO, and XUV 1XO, have sparked a wave of excitement among car enthusiasts. Let's delve deeper into what these names might signify and how they fit into Mahindra's overall EV strategy. Decoding the Mahindra XUV Naming Scheme Mahindra follows a distinct naming convention for its vehicles, with most models ending in the letter "O." This includes popular SUVs like the XUV700, XUV300, and Scorpio. The "XO" in the newly trademarked names likely adheres to this established pattern, with the "X" potentially representing the "Born Electric" (BE) range and the "O" continuing the brand signature. Electrifying Existing Models: XUV 7XO and XUV 3XO The XUV 7XO is believed to be the electric avatar of the much-anticipated Mahindra XUV e8, the electric version of the XUV700 that was showcased in pre-production form in 2022. Mahindra might choose to stick with the XUV e8 name or adopt the XUV 7XO moniker upon launch. Similarly, the XUV 3XO could be the electric iteration of the facelifted XUV400, expected to hit the market sometime in 2024. However, an alternative scenario exists. Mahindra could potentially use the XUV 3XO name for a sub-4-meter electric SUV derived from the XUV400 platform. Expanding the Electric Portfolio: XUV 5XO and XUV 1XO The XUV 5XO and XUV 1XO trademarks hint at Mahindra's plans to introduce brand-new electric SUVs. Here's a breakdown of what these names might represent: XUV 5XO: This is expected to be a Creta-sized electric SUV, potentially taking on rivals like the MG ZS EV and the upcoming Tata Curvv EV. This segment is witnessing significant growth, and Mahindra's entry will further intensify the competition. XUV 1XO: The presence of "1" in the name suggests a smaller electric SUV, possibly venturing into the micro-SUV segment. This could position Mahindra as a direct competitor to the Tata Punch EV, currently the only micro-electric SUV in India. With the XUV 1XO, Mahindra aims to offer an electric SUV option in all major mass-market SUV segments. The BE Series: A Distinct Electric Identity It's important to differentiate between the XUV XO series and the BE series of electric SUVs announced by Mahindra in 2022. The BE series, comprising the BE 05, BE 07 and BE 09, will be standalone models built on a dedicated electric platform. These vehicles won't be electric versions of existing ICE models and will likely carry the names assigned during their showcase. A Look Ahead: When Can We Expect These EVs? The electric version of the XUV700, potentially the XUV 7XO, is expected to be launched by the end of 2024. Preceding this launch will be the facelifted XUV400, possibly taking the XUV 3XO name. As for the BE series, the BE 05 is anticipated to be the first to hit the market by the end of 2025. While the exact names for the electric XUV700 and XUV400 remain under wraps, Mahindra will likely reveal them closer to their launch dates. Stay tuned for further updates! Frequently Asked Questions Q: What do the new Mahindra trademark filings signify? A: These filings suggest Mahindra's plans to expand its electric vehicle portfolio with potentially four new electric SUVs: the XUV 7XO (electric XUV700), XUV 3XO (electric XUV400 or a sub-4-meter variant), XUV 5XO (Creta-sized electric SUV), and XUV 1XO (micro electric SUV). Q: How does the XUV XO series differ from the BE series? A: The XUV XO series might be electric versions of existing Mahindra models or entirely new electric SUVs within established size segments. The BE series, on the other hand, comprises standalone electric vehicles built on a dedicated platform. Q: What do the trademarked names XUV 7XO, XUV 5XO, XUV 3XO, and XUV 1XO signify? A: These names are potentially reserved for upcoming electric SUV models from Mahindra, hinting at their size and segment positioning. Q: Will Mahindra's BE series of electric SUVs feature new names? A: No, the BE series is expected to retain the names assigned to them during their showcase, offering continuity and brand recognition. Q: When can we expect these new electric models to hit the market? A: The electric XUV700 is anticipated by the end of this year, followed by the facelifted XUV400. The BE series, starting with the BE 05, is scheduled for launch by the end of 2025.