Game-changers of 2024

IT has been an action-packed year in the Indian car industry. From brand new cars to the return of iconic nameplates to new body styles, the year saw it all. It was also a year where a major shift towards electric cars took place, with indigenous manufacturers like Tata Motors and Mahindra taking the lead. Mahindra wrote a new chapter with the introduction of two new electric SUVs, which will be launched and delivered next year.

Maruti Suzuki Swift/Dzire

One of the country’s most iconic set of wheels, popularly known as the hot hatch, the Swift returned in a brand new avatar in May. A new engine, more economical than before, along with a refreshed design and addition of key features ensured the buyers lapped it up in no time. The hatch became the highest selling car in India in the first month of its launch itself.

A few months later, the new-generation Dzire was launched. For years, it’s been considered the sedan version of the Swift. The car now has many more features over the Swift, including a sunroof and a 360º view camera. The big talking point was the 5-star crash test rating from testing body Global NCAP, a first for the brand. Just what the Swift did for hatchbacks, the Dzire helped in the partial revival of the subcompact sedan segment, which got a push by the arrival of the new Honda Amaze in December.

Tata Curvv

Tata Motors has built a reputation of doing things differently — be it launching a slew of electric cars or offering a whole lot of drivetrain options in the same model. The biggest launch of the year from the brand intended to create a new segment and the Curvv did manage to do that. The coupe style design of the SUV got immediate attention from buyers and critics alike, and the long list of features just made the package more appealing. The electric version was launched first and the petrol/diesel variants followed. Subtle design differences aside, there was a lot in common between the two, specially the long list of features. The SUV, like many other cars from the brand, is big on safety, and laden with ADAS functions. The Curvv managed to target cars across multiple segments, reflected in its impressive sales figures.

Mercedes Benz E-Class/BMW 5 Series

In the luxury segment, two traditional rivals made the maximum noise. New generation of the BMW 5 series was launched in India in May, followed by the new-gen Mercedes-Benz E-Class during the festive season. Both sedans came in long wheelbase versions, ensuring more comfort in the all-important second row. A lot of new-age tech also found a place, including selfie cameras, connectivity features as well as advanced sound systems. Both cars offer petrol as well as diesel engine options and the close to Rs 1 crore on-road price tag didn’t deter the buyers from choosing these wheels.

Worthy mentions

The Hyundai Creta facelift, along with its sibling Alcazar facelift, came with a host of upgrades that kept the SUVs relevant in the market. The introduction of ADAS technology, more connectivity features and design updates ensured that Creta remains a bestseller even almost a decade after it was first launched.

The arrival of the 5-door Mahindra Thar version called Thar Roxx on Independence Day made a lot of noise. The SUV, when compared to its three-door sibling, also came with additional features, including a sunroof and a bigger boot to take the Thar success story forward.

MG Windsor and Tata Punch EV kept the electric flag flying high. The former became the highest selling electric car in India in the first month of its launch. Affordable pricing, a massive rotating touchscreen and lounge-like second row seats were some highlights that pulled the customers to MG. Rolls-Royce also took the electric turn this year. Spectre was the first EV from the British marquee and apart from being environment-friendly, it subscribed to all the qualities the spirit of ecstasy comes with.

— The writer is associated with carandbike.com