While electric vehicles are certainly stealing the spotlight in 2025, there’s some great news for fans of traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) SUVs. This year, plenty of exciting new models with powerful petrol and diesel engines will be making their debut. From the Toyota Fortuner mild-hybrid to the eagerly anticipated Renault Duster, the upcoming ICE SUVs promise to deliver performance and ruggedness for those who prefer the engine roar over the hum of an electric motor. Here’s everything you need to know about these upcoming releases.
Renault Duster
Some may argue that it’s arriving a bit late, but the iconic Duster nameplate is making a strong comeback in 2025. The third-generation model is completely redesigned, featuring a fresh exterior, updated interiors, and new powertrain options. Alongside the Duster, Nissan will also introduce its own version of the mid-size SUV, reviving the Terrano name. The Duster is built on the CMF-B platform, which will be locally adapted to keep the price competitive in India’s price-sensitive market. Internationally, the SUV will be offered with three powertrain options: a 1.0-litre turbo petrol, a 1.2-litre mild-hybrid, and a 1.6-litre strong hybrid. There are rumours that the Duster could arrive with the 1.3-litre turbo petrol engine, previously seen in the Nissan Kicks, for the Indian market.
Toyota Fortuner MHEV
It’s going to be nine years in 2025 since the second-generation Fortuner made its debut in India and it is expected to receive some major updates. The updated version of the SUV is already available in the international. The biggest upgrade is that the 2.8-litre diesel engine goes the mild-hybrid way as it comes with a 48V electrical system, which according to Toyota, has helped increase the fuel economy by 5 per cent as compared to the non-hybrid version. The hybrid system churns out an additional 16 bhp and 42 Nm of torque with a total output of around 200 bhp. The MHEV version only comes with a 6-speed automatic torque converter and is available in rear-wheel-drive (2WD) and 4×4.
Tata Sierra ICE
Yes, it’s finally making a comeback. Tata Motors is set to bring back the Sierra in 2025. Like the Curvv, the new SUV will be available in two versions—ICE and EV. For now, let’s focus on the internal combustion engine (ICE) variant. While Tata Motors hasn’t officially confirmed the powertrain yet, there’s strong speculation that the new Sierra could debut with the 168 bhp 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine, which was showcased at the Auto Expo 2023. A diesel option is also expected to be offered. Following in the footsteps of the Curvv, the Sierra could be available with two transmission choices — a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic across all engine variants.
Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara 7-seater
Maruti Suzuki is all set to make its mark in the seven-seater SUV segment with the upcoming Grand Vitara 7-seater. Built on a longer wheelbase to accommodate an extra row of seats, the updated Grand Vitara’s design takes cues from the e Vitara, which is scheduled to debut in January 2025. Spy images reveal a revamped cabin layout, featuring a larger infotainment system. As Maruti’s flagship model, the Grand Vitara 7-seater will continue to offer the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine and the 1.5-litre strong hybrid engine.
Kia Syros
Kia unveiled its second compact SUV, the Syros, which will be launched in January 2025. The boxy shape brings in an element of practicality and first-time segment features like six parking sensors (with side sensors), flush door handles, a 30-inch display setup that integrates the infotainment system, driver’s instrument cluster, and climate control virtual switches and over-the-air (OTA) updates. The new SUV gets an adjustable rear bench, which can recline, and slide and the seat squab is ventilated. The Syros also comes with a 4-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat.
