- Newest compact crossovers
- Provide interesting propositions to buyers
The fiercely contested car segment in India is undoubtedly that of the SUVs. Apart from the mid-size ones, the sub-four metre crossovers have always been in the limelight, including the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza, Ford EcoSport, Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV300, Toyota Urban Cruiser, Nissan Magnite, and the Renault Kiger. The newest additions are the Kia Sonet, Toyota Taisor (based on the Maruti Fronx), and the upcoming Mahindra3XO (XUV300 facelift). Let's take a look at the common top five highlights of these crossovers.
1. Sub-four metre advantage
All three cars are under four metres in length. This makes them compact vehicles for better maneuverability in traffic congestion and even tight parking spaces. Another advantage is that these sub-four metre cars get better tax incentives, eventually reducing the initial ownership costs.
2. Modern design
The latest teasers of the Mahindra 3XO show the major design elements that make the car sporty, attractive, and aspirational. These have already been factored in the Toyota Taisor and Kia Sonet, the highlights being compact proportions, DRLs, high bonnet, chunky wheel arches, striking alloys, and connected LED taillamps. This equipment has become the standard for most modern cars and every manufacturer adopts it in the styling elements.
3. Feature-packed interiors
Inside the cabin of these crossovers, the primarily incorporated USPs include a large touchscreen infotainment system, 360-degree camera, parking sensors, TPMS, automatic climate control, heads-up display, and wireless smartphone charger. Though the Taisor misses out on features like ventilated seats, ambient lighting, and faux leather, this equipment and features have been lauded by customers in the Sonet. In fact, Kia goes a notch up by offering ADAS as well. The upcoming 3XO will also get it, as was seen earlier in the spy shots.
4. Performance
Apart from the naturally-aspirated engines, the Sonet and the Taisor get 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine options packing in a peppy performance from a small motor. The upcoming 3XO is also expected to get a turbo-petrol motor bringing in an exhilarating performance. Besides, these small engines also mean better fuel efficiency, and the Sonet and Taisor claim to be fuel efficient.
5. Competitive price
The sub-four metre length helps get some tax benefits and brings down a car’s sticker price. The Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor starts at Rs. 7.73 lakh, while the Kia Sonet at Rs. 7.99 lakh (ex-showroom). The upcoming Mahindra 3XO is also expected to be launched at a competitive price, which will continue to attract buyers from lower as well as higher segments.
