New Delhi, May 20, 2025 – In a strategic move aimed at strengthening their presence in India’s fast-growing compact SUV segment, Renault and Nissan have announced plans to launch all-new SUV models designed to compete directly with the segment leader, Hyundai Creta. The announcement signals a renewed focus by the Renault-Nissan alliance to regain market momentum and capitalize on the rising demand for mid-size SUVs among Indian consumers.
Joint Development with Shared Platforms
The upcoming SUVs will be developed under the Renault-Nissan alliance framework, leveraging a shared modular platform to reduce development costs and accelerate time-to-market. These models are expected to be manufactured locally at the Chennai plant, ensuring competitive pricing and localization benefits.
While exact specifications are under wraps, company insiders confirm that the two brands will maintain distinct exterior and interior designs to cater to their respective brand identities, while sharing core mechanicals and components. This strategy mirrors similar collaborations by other global manufacturers operating in India, such as Toyota-Suzuki and VW-Skoda.
Segment Focus: Compact and Mid-Size SUVs
With the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, and Honda Elevate dominating the Rs 10–20 lakh SUV segment, Renault and Nissan are aiming to introduce compelling alternatives packed with features, modern design, and competitive pricing. Both new SUVs are expected to be powered by 1.0-litre turbo-petrol and 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engines, along with a potential hybrid variant under consideration.
As the Indian market gradually shifts toward feature-rich, fuel-efficient SUVs, these new offerings are rumored to include connected car tech, digital instrument clusters, panoramic sunroofs, and ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) — features increasingly sought after by younger urban buyers.
Rising SUV Demand in India
India’s SUV market has witnessed exponential growth in recent years, with SUVs now accounting for over 50% of total passenger vehicle sales. The Hyundai Creta alone commands a monthly average of over 12,000 units, making it the benchmark in the category.
To make a successful impact, Renault and Nissan will need to ensure their upcoming models offer compelling value propositions — not just in terms of price, but also in build quality, fuel efficiency, technology, and after-sales support. Industry analysts believe the alliance’s global expertise and experience in emerging markets will give them an edge in tailoring products for Indian preferences.
Strategic Turnaround for Nissan and Renault
For both brands, this launch represents more than just a product expansion — it marks a crucial pivot in their India strategy. Nissan, which has seen declining volumes post the Magnite’s initial success, is expected to position its SUV at the slightly premium end of the segment. Renault, known for its mass-market appeal through models like the Kwid and Kiger, may aim for a more aggressive price point to undercut rivals.
The alliance is also expected to strengthen its dealer and service network as part of the SUV rollout, which will be critical in building customer trust and ensuring long-term success.
Conclusion: A New Chapter in the SUV Battle
The Indian SUV market is fiercely competitive, and Renault and Nissan’s decision to launch new models to challenge the Hyundai Creta underscores their commitment to reclaiming lost ground. With a focus on localization, innovation, and value, the alliance hopes to strike a chord with India’s SUV-loving audience — a market that shows no signs of slowing down.
