Carmakers are not waiting for the Auto Expo 2025 to be held in January and are lining up a slew of launches and upgrades in December, a traditionally tepid month for sales. This is in addition to the year-end discounts being offered on existing models across the board. Automakers across the spectrum are rolling out cars to cater to every segment starting from a subcompact Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) at Rs 6 lakh to a high-end sedan priced at Rs 55 lakh.
Skoda Kylaq
Nearly a month after unveiling the Kylaq, Skoda Auto India Pvt Ltd has rolled out its maiden subcompact SUV priced from Rs 7.89 lakh to Rs 14.4 lakh (ex-showroom). The sub-four-metre SUV will be taking on the likes of Hyundai Venue, Maruti Brezza, Kia Sonet, Tata Nexon and Mahindra XUV 3XO.
A senior Skoda official said Kylaq would further the company’s goal of entering new markets, bringing new customers and strengthening its brand presence in India. “It’s the beginning of a new era for Skoda, because with this car we are becoming a true volume player in India,” Skoda Auto India Brand Director Petr Janeba told reporters while revealing the prices of the model.
Next-gen Honda Amaze
In the entry-level sedan segment, Maruti Suzuki's recently-launched fourth generation Dzire will witness a tough battle with the next-generation Honda Amaze, which will be launched tomorrow. Expected to be equipped with the updated version of the same powertrain, the sub-four-metre sedan is expected to be priced at a starting price of Rs 7.5 lakh (ex-showroom).
“As we approach the launch of the third-generation Amaze, the production of the new model will be ramped up from December. There is a lot of excitement among customers for the new Amaze highlighting a strong market connection for the brand, Kunal Behl, Vice President, Marketing & Sales, Honda Cars India Ltd, said in a press release.
Kia Syros
After launching the all-new Carnival recently, Kia India is gearing up to introduce the Syros, which will be positioned between the Sonet and Seltos SUVs. The upcoming B-segment SUV from Kia is expected to be priced in the Rs 6 lakh- Rs 10 lakh range and will be available in petrol and diesel options.
“The Syros aims to resonate with a diverse customer base; its advanced tech features, bold aesthetics, and futuristic space design are crafted to cater to individuals and families looking for a cutting-edge vehicle that stands out. As part of Kia India’s next phase of growth, the Syros will play a significant role in further capturing the SUV market, Kia India said in a statement.
New-gen Toyota Camry
Toyota's new-generation Camry is scheduled for its India launch on December 11. The all-new Camry will be powered by an updated 2.5-litre petrol engine that is paired with a hybrid propulsion system. To be assembled locally, the ultra-premium sedan is estimated to be priced in the range of Rs 45 lakh – Rs 55 lakh (ex-showroom). An emailed query sent to Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) remained unanswered until the time when the report was filed.
Revving up the market
Amid lacklustre sales, new vehicle launches are set to play a pivotal role in reinvigorating the automotive market, according to S&P Global Mobility.
“These introductions will enable OEMs to attract more consumers to their showrooms, driving an increase in footfalls, which is crucial for the industry’s revival in today’s challenging environment. Their strategic launch timing could act as a catalyst, prompting consumers to upgrade their vehicles and offering a much-needed boost to overall market sentiment and sales,” Puneet Gupta, director at S&P Global Mobility, told Moneycontrol.
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