The Indian automotive market is on the verge of a seismic shift, and 2025 is shaping up to be the year it all comes together. With a powerful cocktail of electrification, SUV dominance, and groundbreaking design, manufacturers are lining up to unleash their most ambitious models yet. For consumers, this means more choice, cutting-edge technology, and a whole new driving experience.
Get ready to update your wish lists. Here’s our first look at the most exciting cars expected to hit Indian roads in 2025.
1. The Legend Grows: Mahindra Thar 5-Door (Armada)
The Mahindra Thar captured the hearts of lifestyle enthusiasts, but its 3-door format limited its practicality. Enter the Thar 5-Door, unofficially rumored to be named the Mahindra Armada.
- First Impressions: It’s everything you love about the Thar, but bigger and more practical. Spy shots reveal a longer wheelbase, two extra doors, and a slightly reworked design to accommodate its larger footprint. It retains the iconic boxy silhouette, round headlamps, and commanding road presence, but now it’s ready for the whole family.
- Inside the Cabin: Expect more space, especially for rear passengers, and a larger boot. While the rugged DNA will remain, Mahindra is likely to add more creature comforts like a larger touchscreen, rear AC vents, and potentially a sunroof to appeal to a wider family audience.
- Under the Hood: It will share its powerful petrol and diesel engines with the Scorpio-N and the current Thar. The key will be its suspension setup—Mahindra is expected to tune it for a more comfortable, family-friendly ride without completely sacrificing its legendary off-road prowess.
Why it matters: This is the Thar that can be your only car. It blends hardcore off-road credibility with everyday usability, posing a unique threat to C-segment SUVs.
2. The EV for the Masses: Maruti Suzuki eVX
When the king of the Indian car market enters the EV space, everyone takes notice. The Maruti Suzuki eVX is the brand's first ground-up electric vehicle, and it’s poised to democratize EV ownership in India.
- First Impressions: Based on the concept showcased, the eVX is a bold, muscular SUV with a high bonnet and futuristic Y-shaped LED lights. It has a modern, global appeal that's a departure from Maruti's current design language. It looks substantial and ready to compete.
- Inside the Cabin: Expect a tech-laden and practical interior. A free-standing dual-screen layout is highly likely, along with a host of connected car features. Knowing Maruti, the focus will be on maximizing space and usability.
- Under the Hood: Developed in collaboration with Toyota, the eVX is expected to launch with a 60 kWh battery pack, targeting a real-world range of around 500-550 km. This puts it directly in contention with the top variants of the Nexon EV and the upcoming Curvv EV.
Why it matters: With Maruti Suzuki's unparalleled sales network and reputation for reliability, the eVX has the potential to become India’s best-selling electric SUV.
3. The Premium Behemoth: Kia EV9
For those looking for the pinnacle of electric luxury, Kia is bringing its global flagship, the Kia EV9, to India.
- First Impressions: The EV9 is a massive, three-row electric SUV with an imposing presence. Its "Digital Tiger Face," geometric lines, and sheer size make it look like a concept car for the road. It’s bold, futuristic, and designed to make a statement.
- Inside the Cabin: This is where the EV9 will truly shine. Expect a minimalist, ultra-modern dashboard with expansive screens, sustainable materials, and features like swivel seats in the second row. It will be a masterclass in luxury, space, and technology, rivaling premium German brands.
- Under the Hood: Globally, the EV9 is available with different battery packs and RWD/AWD configurations. For India, we can expect the top-tier long-range version, offering over 500 km on a single charge and blistering performance.
Why it matters: The EV9 will be a halo product for Kia, showcasing the brand's technological prowess and solidifying its position as a premium player in the Indian market.
The Road Ahead
As we gear up for 2025, one thing is clear: the Indian consumer is the ultimate winner. The upcoming launches promise a future filled with stunning designs, sustainable choices, and smarter cars. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a tech enthusiast, or a family-focused buyer, 2025 has something special waiting for you. The Indian automotive revolution is in full throttle.