Upcoming 4X4 ICE SUVs In India – New Duster To Fortuner Hybrid

The SUV segment will get multiple new 4X4 models in the Indian market from Renault, Nissan, Toyota and Volkswagen

SUVs are currently the name of the game and the options of capable 4X4 models are limited in the domestic market. However, the scenario will soon shift as many major manufacturers plan to launch new 4X4/AWD SUVs in the country. These SUVs have the advantage of go-anywhere capability and are the top choice for adventure seekers. While the market size of 4X4 SUVs is limited, it is expected to grow in the coming years. In this article, we will look at the upcoming 4X4 SUVs in India.

1. New-Gen Renault Duster

The 3rd generation of the Renault Duster is due for launch in India in the second half of 2025. The first generation model used to come with the option of AWD (all-wheel-drive) in the domestic market and the upcoming new model will likely follow the suit.

The SUV was unveiled last year globally and is already on sale in the European market. Based on the CMF-B platform, the upcoming Renault car will get a 130 bhp turbo petrol mild hybrid and a strong hybrid powertrain option is also likely for the India-spec model. In terms of dimensions, the four-wheeler will measure 4.34 meters long with 209 mm ground clearance.

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2. New Nissan SUV

The new-gen Renault Duster will spawn a Nissan counterpart in the Indian market. Based on the familiar CMF-B platform, the SUV will share the powertrain and major mechanical components with the Duster. This means that the AWD option is highly likely for the Duster-based Nissan SUV.

Expected to launch around the same timeline as the new Duster, the upcoming SUV will have a unique design and Nissan will likely offer a different layout for interiors as well. In terms of pricing, there could be minor differences between the two, depending on the variant and features on offer.

3. Toyota Fortuner Hybrid

The Toyota Fortuner mild-hybrid debuted early this year in South Africa and will be launched in other markets in a phased manner. The SUV is powered by the familiar 2.8 litre 1GD-FTV diesel engine, paired with a 48V mild hybrid system, thus making it more frugal.

As per Toyota, the Fortuner MHEV is 5% more fuel efficient than the regular Fortuner 2.8 diesel. The power output figures stand at 201 bhp and 500 Nm of peak torque. Much like the current model, the Fortuner Hybrid will continue to be offered in both 2WD and 4WD configurations. In India, the Toyota Fortuner Hybrid will go on sale next year i.e. 2025.

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4. Toyota Mini-Fortuner

As per the media reports, Toyota is working on a new rugged 4X4 SUV for global markets and it will be positioned below the Fortuner. Based on the modified version of the familiar IMV platform, the SUV will likely sport a wheelbase of 2,750 mm which is similar to the Fortuner, however, will be shorter in terms of length.

It is expected to measure less than 4.5 meters in length. In terms of powertrain, it will be powered by a turbo diesel engine and a petrol motor could also be a part of the package. While the details about the SUV’s India launch are limited, it could be a nice addition to the Japanese brand’s portfolio.

5. Volkswagen Tayron

The Volkswagen Tayron is expected to be launched in India sometime next year. Likely to be sold in the domestic market via the CKD route, the 3-row SUV is underpinned by Volkswagen’s new MQB EVO platform which is shared with a number of other VW Group models internationally.

Under the hood, the Tayron is offered in multiple powertrain options including pure petrol, mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) petrol as well as diesel, with 2WD and 4WD configurations. In India, Volkswagen will most likely offer the Tayron with the familiar 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine paired with a 7-speed DSG gearbox.

6. Skoda Kodiaq

The next-generation model of the Skoda Kodiaq made its international debut in October last year. Based on the new MQB-EVO platform, the SUV has grown in dimensions, making it longer by 61 mm. The India launch of the second-generation Kodiaq is expected to take place sometime next year i.e.

2025 and the SUV will likely be sold here via the CBU route. The pricing will go upwards of Rs. 40 lakh (ex-showroom) and the India-spec model will get the familiar 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine under the hood. Much like the current model, the upcoming new-gen Skoda Kodiaq will get 4WD as standard.