Launched in 2021, the Tata Punch (ICE + EV) is among India’s top-selling cars and has consistently been admired for its strong safety, compact footprint, practicality and affordability. Aiming to challenge its dominance, Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai are gearing up to launch compact crossovers in the coming years. Here’re the key details of these upcoming micro SUVs we know so far.
Hyundai Tata Punch EV Rival
Recently, a test mule of a fully electric subcompact SUV was caught on camera during test rounds in India. It’s expected to be a Made-for-India model, positioned as a rival to the Tata Punch EV. The upright and boxy stance is clearly evident along with LED DRLs featuring a pixelated pattern at both the front and rear. The model also features dual-tone diamond-cut alloy wheels, pronounced wheel arches with plastic body cladding, fitted door handles, black roof rails, a blacked-out window line, a flat tailgate and short overhangs.
Other expected elements include a closed-off grille, front-mounted charging port, a digital cockpit, a large digital instrument cluster and infotainment system, a 360-degree camera and connected car tech.
Maruti Tata Punch Rival
Details of the upcoming Maruti micro SUV (codenamed Y43) are still under the warps. However, the carmaker has confirmed that the compact crossover will be offered with multiple powertrain options – mild hybrid, EV, and CNG.
The ICE (internal combustion engine) version might feature either a 1.2L, 3-cylinder petrol mild hybrid or 1.0L, 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine, or both. Maruti Suzuki could also use its in-house developed series strong hybrid powertrain for its upcoming Tata Punch rival, which will debut with Fronx in 2027.
The compact crossover is expected to have a boxy stance with SUV-ish design elements and advanced features. In terms of positing, the new Maruti SUV will sit alongside the Swift, and similar to the hatchback, it might underpin the Heartect platform. In FY2026, Maruti Suzuki witnessed significant growth of 19.6 percent in the SUV segment, up from 16.8 percent previously.