Compact SUV, an oxymoron

The year 2012 is going to be action packed as far as new automobiles are concerned. The year will begin with the much awaited Auto Expo ’12 @ New Delhi. A slew of new cars are waiting to enter the Indian car market. Many of these would of course be newer generations of existing ones like the Honda Civic 2012, Hyundai Elantra and many more.

However, one segment that has not been a favourite of customers or rather it contradicts the very essence of that segment is the “Compact SUV” segment. Yes, you guessed it, SUVs are meant to be meaty, huge and diesel guzzlers. However, in my opinion, it is the next in thing!! Most of the customers buy SUVs for their road presence and stature. But, with rising fuel costs, agony against fuel guzzling SUVs, and the ease of drivability in crowded Indian roads, compact SUVs can be of great utility besides being fun to drive off road.

Renault Duster

The first entrants in this segment will be the Renault Duster followed by the Ford Ecosport. The Duster may not perfectly fall into the Compact SUV category, but its price band of 7 to 9 lakhs will pitch it directly to the Ecosport and the upcoming Mahindra Xylo Compact. The Xylo Compact will also attract excise duty benefits on basis of its length. These SUVs will offer seating comfort, decent engine power, ease of driving and good fuel economy. I personally find the Ecosport from Ford to be very stylish and could be head turner at signals!!

Ford Ecosport

As a customer I am personally fond of such SUVs for the sheer traits that I mentioned above. Ease of driving an SUV is a major attraction that I have and this new segment fits just right. Although the market may take some time to accept this new segment. However if we see the BMW X1 and the upcoming Audi Q3 (to be showcased at Auto Expo’12) already fall into this category.

This means market does exist and those who do not want to give up the pleasure of an SUV along with economy will definitely move to this segment.