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SUVs and crossovers are popular in India, just like in many other markets. In India specifically, we have seen a rise in demand for small crossovers, raised hatchbacks, and compact SUVs. We even have a unique sub-4-metre SUV segment, which is not very common globally. It is a highly competitive space, and almost every brand has at least one product here. The sales numbers for April are now out, and the Tata Punch has emerged as the best-selling SUV in the country, beating the Maruti Fronx by a small margin.

Tata sold 19,107 units of the Punch in India last month. Tata updated the Punch earlier this year, and since then it has been performing well. It now comes with more features and a turbo-petrol engine for those who felt the older engine lacked performance. The Punch is available with manual and AMT options, along with both petrol and CNG variants. The sales numbers mentioned here includes the EV numbers too.

Maruti Suzuki, India’s largest car manufacturer, launched the Fronx a couple of years ago. The SUV is based on the Baleno platform and is currently the only model in Maruti’s lineup to offer a turbo-petrol engine. In April, Maruti sold 18,829 units of the Fronx. This is actually 278 units less than the Tata Punch. If Tata removes the EV numbers we believe Fronx might get to the top position.

Maruti is also working on a new series-hybrid technology, and the Fronx is expected to be one of the first models to get this system, where the engine acts as a generator while the electric motor powers the car.

Another popular SUV from Tata’s line-up is the Nexon. It is available in petrol, diesel, CNG, and EV forms. Tata sold 18,126 units of the Nexon in April, and these numbers include electric vehicle sales as well.

Moving to the mid-size segment, Hyundai sold 15,291 units of the Creta last month. Hyundai is working on the next-generation Creta, which is expected to launch early next year and may introduce a 1.5-litre strong hybrid engine.

Mahindra offers both the Scorpio N and Scorpio Classic in its lineup. The brand sold 14,719 units of these SUVs combined in April. Both models remain popular, and Mahindra is working on a facelift for the Scorpio N, along with updates for the Scorpio Classic.

One of the most popular sub-4-metre SUVs, the Brezza recorded sales of 14,124 units last month. A facelift has been spotted testing multiple times, and it is expected to get minor cosmetic updates, a new 6-speed manual transmission, and additional features.

Maruti’s mid-size SUV Victoris is based on the same platform as the Toyota Hyryder and Grand Vitara. It is offered with mild-hybrid and strong-hybrid engine options, and select variants also get AWD with an automatic transmission. Maruti sold 13,701 units of this Victoris SUV last month.

The Hyundai Venue has been a strong performer in its segment since launch. It received a generation update last year and continues to sell well. Hyundai sold 12,420 units of the Venue in April.

Kia launched the all-new Seltos in India earlier this year. It now comes with a fresh design, more features, and improved comfort. Kia is also planning to introduce new variants like GTX Plus and X-Line Plus (O) around the festive season. In April, Kia sold 10,566 units of the Seltos.

At the 10th position is the Kia Sonet. With the Venue receiving a generational update, Kia may bring a next-gen Sonet in the coming years. The current version already offers a sporty design and a good set of features. Kia sold 10,537 units of the Sonet in April.