The SUV rage in the passenger vehicle segment has spawned a new sub-segment, the mini SUV, which is witnessing increased activity both in terms of customer enquiries as well as manufacture updates to cater to the rising demand for personal mobility.

For many original equipment manufacturers, the min-SUV is their entry-level car. For Renault India, the Kwid has been a volume driver ever since its launch in the Indian market in 2015 except for August this year when the Renault Triber sales overtook the Kwid. The Kwid has sold around 3,000 units in August 2020.

Renault has recently announced a limited version of the Kwid, called the 2020 Neotech edition.

“The Kwid has emerged as a game-changer. It redefines the entry segment’s value index led by its SUV bodystyle and an economical cost of ownership, which is enabled by its 98 per cent localisation levels,” said a company spokesperson.

Maruti’s S-Presso, a mini SUV, also celebrated its first anniversary recently and is also a major volume driver for the car maker.

Shashank Srivastava, executive director, marketing and sales, Maruti Suzuki India Ltd (MSIL), said, “Within a short span of a year, the S-Presso has carved a strong niche for itself. In line with the aspirations of young India, S-Presso is exclusively designed to offer a mini SUV feel with the best of technologies and features.”

In the premium segment, Audi India is driving in the Q2, its entry-level SUV whose bookings opened last week.

Balbir Singh Dhillon, head of Audi India, said, “Our fifth launch for the year — the Audi Q2 — is an extremely important product for India as it opens up a new segment of buyers for the brand. It is a luxury all-rounder that is big on features and extends the successful Q-family.”