Gone are the days of endless hatchbacks and sedans dominating Indian roads. In their place, a new king has emerged: the SUV. But this isn’t your dad’s bulky off-roader. The Indian SUV has undergone a dramatic transformation, morphing into a versatile beast that caters to a wide range of drivers and lifestyles.
The story begins in 2002, with the Mahindra Scorpio. Back then, SUVs were a niche segment. The Scorpio, with its imposing stance and powerful engine, shattered expectations. It wasn’t just a car; it was a statement of strength and capability. Mahindra cleverly positioned it as a premium offering, setting a new standard for Indian SUVs.
But the rise of SUVs goes beyond practicality. It’s about a shift in aspirations. Today’s SUV represents adventure, achievement, and a desire to conquer new horizons. That commanding driving position and rugged looks resonate with the ambitions of a growing, aspirational middle class.
Automakers have cleverly tapped into this desire. They’ve introduced a new breed of SUV: compact, fuel-efficient options that are more accessible to everyone. Improved infrastructure, like expanding highways, has fueled the craze further. High ground clearance isn’t just about off-roading anymore; it’s become a necessity for navigating India’s unpredictable roads, from dusty village paths to monsoon-flooded streets.
Let’s delve deeper and explore two contrasting SUVs: the MG Hector and the Mahindra Scorpio Classic S11, showcasing the vast spectrum within the Indian SUV category.
This story is from the June 2024 edition of BBC TopGear India.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the June 2024 edition of BBC TopGear India.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
The Next Great Family MPV?
“Whoa, that’s a nice-looking Minivan!” Said no one ever.
MG COMET
A LOT OF PEOPLE HAD THOUGHT THIS CAR TO BE COMPLETELY useless when it came out.
BMW i7
WHEN THE i7 PULLED INTO MY GARAGE AND PARKED ITSELF next to the Mercedes EQA and the MG Comet, it just struck me that this is how the future will be.
SPECIAL RELATIONSHIP
McLaren's finest faces off Corvette's nat-asp swansong as the Brits and the Americans square up... in a Spanish playground. Expect fireworks
NEXT LEVEL
Thought the 750S was fast? The McLaren P1's successor - the W1 is ready to spread its wings
MANUAL LABOUR
Two cars from opposite ends of the performance spectrum with one crucial thing in common...
PRO VS SLOW
At last, we have our hands on the Valkyrie. But is its performance only accessible for the pros... or can anyone enjoy it?
THE OUTBURST OF OFFROADING
The high-volume market is a point of interest for all manufacturers here in India.
THE BATTLE OF CRUISER-COMMUTERS
WHO DOES THE BEST COMMUTER WORK WHILE NOT BEING A TRUE COMMUTER MOTORCYCLE?
LEAVING EVERYTHING ON THE TRACK
FT. YMRP ROUND 3 From being second, I DNF'd from the race on the last corner