Here’s how SUVs have driven their way into Indian roads and minds

Even though SUVs are seen as giant polluters and harmful to the environment, Indians seem to have a liking for these big cars. A recent report released by Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) has said one out of every four new vehicles on Indian roads is an SUV.

As per the report, the trend of owning an SUV is getting stronger with each passing year, which can also be a result of several upcoming SUV launches. While at the end of March 2010, SUVs held a 14% share in the overall passenger vehicle sales, this grew to 25% at the end of March 2017.

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While in 2016-17, sales of cars grew by a mere 4%, demand for SUVs went up by 30%.

"SUVs are a global trend and very much liked in India as well. The large and varied spread of the country, with strong challenges when it comes to road infrastructure, makes them a necessity when one wants a stronger, safer and high-seating vehicle," said Rakesh Srivastava, senior VP (sales & marketing), at Hyundai India. "This trend will continue and I feel that the share of SUVs will rise to nearly 30 per cent over the next one year,” he added.

Even though one can’t deny the strong growth in the compact SUV segment (like Maruti Brezza and Ford Ecosport, priced under Rs 10 lakh), there has been an equally strong growth in the bigger segment that has models like Hyundai's Creta, priced above Rs 10 lakh.

Also read: Here’s how young India is buying cars

Even though industry experts feel that all products under SUV tags don’t carry original SUV characteristics, which can be characterized as brute raw power, giant proportions and 4X4 (all-wheel drive) capability, the common public does not share the sentiment.

This could be cited as the reason behind increasing popularity of models like Renault Kwid, a hatchback with SUV-like interiors. Cross-overs and mini-SUVs, which come with smaller diesel engines and are less than four metres in length are currently enjoying great demand.

"They seem to fit the bill as they are easy on the pocket when it comes to affordability, and also give a sense of off-roaders in their shape and design. The trick works with buyers and we are happy to ride the wave," an official with a top company told TNN on condition of anonymity.

(Image source Motor Bash)