3 Upcoming Tata Punch Competitors You Should Know About
Tata Punch will soon face three new rivals: Hyundai Exter facelift, Hyundai Inster EV, and Maruti’s Y43. The Exter receives cosmetic updates, the Inster offers EV technology and features, and the Y43 is a compact Maruti SUV. All aim to compete in the sub-compact SUV segment in India.
Tata Punch fans, hold on. The sub-compact SUV will soon face three new rivals in India. Let’s see what’s coming and how they could challenge the Punch.
1. Hyundai Exter Facelift
Hyundai is planning an update for the Exter by early 2027. The facelift is expected to bring cosmetic changes like a new grille, connected DRLs, LED headlamps, new alloy wheels, and rear LED tail lamps.
Inside, the dashboard will remain mostly the same, but new upholstery and features are likely. Expect a 12.9-inch touchscreen, 9.9-inch digital instrument cluster, ventilated front seats, 360-degree camera, and reclining rear seats. Safety features may see an upgrade, though ADAS is unlikely due to pricing.
The powertrain will stay the same: a 1.2-litre petrol engine with manual and AMT options, plus a CNG variant.
2. Hyundai Inster
Hyundai’s upcoming entry-level EV, possibly named Inster, will also rival the Punch. Built on the E-GMP platform, it will be slightly longer than the Exter, offering more interior space.
The design includes circular LED DRLs, pixel-style turn indicators, block-shaped tail lamps, and a minimalistic exterior. Inside, dual 10.25-inch screens, a three-spoke steering wheel, a gear lever behind the steering, and HVAC buttons will feature prominently. Other highlights are a sunroof, heated front seats and steering wheel, ambient lighting, and ADAS.
Internationally, it comes with 42kWh and 49kWh battery options, with the larger pack offering 350km of range. Hyundai is expected to price it competitively in India.
3. Maruti’s Punch Rival
Maruti is working on a new sub-compact SUV, codenamed Y43, to compete with the Punch. It will sit below the Fronx and is based on the Heartect platform. Design and features are not yet revealed, but a boxy, minimalist look is expected.
Powertrains could include a new 1.2-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine from the Swift and Dzire, producing 80bhp and 113Nm. Transmission options will likely be a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT.
These three models signal an exciting period for the sub-compact SUV segment. Tata Punch may face serious competition soon, both in petrol and electric variants.
