Even though the festive season is over, the car industry is not slowing down. November is packed with significant new model launches, including exciting returns of classic names and major updates to highly popular vehicles.
1. Hyundai Venue (New Generation)
The completely redesigned second-generation Hyundai Venue is launching on November 4th, six years after the compact SUV first hit the market.
- Design: The exterior styling now aligns with Hyundai's modern look, featuring a new grille, updated wheels, and the trendy connected LED tail lamps seen on other new models.
- Interior & Tech: The cabin features a stylish dual-tone black and beige theme. It gets an updated climate control system, a revised center area, and much-requested ventilated seats. Hyundai has confirmed major tech upgrades, including Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) for enhanced safety and dual 12.3-inch digital displays.
- Competition: The Venue is crucial for Hyundai and will continue its fight against rivals like the Tata Nexon, Kia Sonet, and Maruti Brezza.
- Engines: It keeps the three reliable engine options: the 1.2-litre petrol, 1.5-litre diesel, and 1.0-litre turbo petrol.
2. Tata Sierra (The Iconic Return)
After being shown at three different auto shows, the new Tata Sierra will be unveiled on November 25th.
- Design Blend: It successfully combines the classic, rugged look of the original Sierra (including the squared-off lines and large glass roof) with Tata's latest, sharp design language.
- Powertrain Strategy: The EV version will likely use the same battery packs as the Curvv (45kWh and 55kWh), offering front-wheel drive (FWD) only. The standard engine lineup will feature Tata’s modern 1.5-litre GDI turbo petrol and the familiar 1.5-litre diesel engine, both available with automatic and manual gearbox options.
- Market Position: The Sierra is part of Tata's strategy to dominate every segment. It will partner with the Curvv to challenge established mid-size SUVs like the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos, and will also go head-to-head with vehicles like the Kia Carens Clavis.
3. Maruti Fronx Flex Fuel & Victoris CBG
Maruti Suzuki is making a major statement about future fuel sources:
- Fronx Flex Fuel: Maruti will showcase its very first flex-fuel vehicle at the Japanese Mobility Show. It's expected to feature the 1.5-litre K-Series petrol engine, capable of running on gasoline blended with ethanol. While this exact model might not launch in India, it introduces the flex-fuel engine technology that will eventually appear in larger Indian models like the Ertiga and others.
- Victoris CBG: Alongside the Fronx, Maruti will unveil a version of the Victoris that runs on Compressed Bio Gas (CBG). This vehicle demonstrates the company’s efforts to use alternative, sustainable energy sources. A production version is expected to launch around 2026.
4. New Lexus LS Luxury MPV
Lexus recently stopped production of its flagship LS sedan, but the replacement is already in sight: a new luxury MPV.
- Premium Shift: This new model will be positioned above the already luxurious LM MPV.
- Future Powertrains: It is expected to arrive as either a hybrid or a pure electric vehicle. Early teaser images suggest a large, luxurious six-wheel vehicle with specialised lounge seating and premium interior lighting.
5. Honda Compact EV
Fulfilling a promise made at the launch of the Elevate SUV, Honda is ready to enter the electric compact SUV segment.
- Global Debut: Honda will unveil a compact electric SUV derived from its 0 SUV concept.
- Made in India: Following its launch, this new electric SUV will be manufactured in India not just for the domestic market, but for export to global markets as well.
