2024 was an interesting year for the Indian automotive Induustry for some reasons. First, there was a sudden acceleration in electric mobility with cars like MG Windsor and BE6E making the most noise. Second, bold experiments with coupe SUVs like Basalt and Curvv caught everyone’s attention. Let’s explore the cars that mattered this year!

CarWyapar’s expert panel reviewed some of the most exciting car launches of 2024. These models were ranked based on the impact they created and the new standards they established in the industry.

7. Citroen basalt

Citroën is known for making great cars globally, but in India, the brand struggles with popularity, limited presence, and a lack of customer trust. Despite these challenges, Citroën made a bold move by introducing the Basalt, India’s first affordable coupe SUV.

This launch is significant as it opened the doors for coupe SUVs in the budget-friendly segment.

Explore Citroen basalt's engine, specifications, color options and gallery

6. Tata Curvv

Tata introduced its coupe SUV, Curvv, around the same time Citroën launched the Basalt. Surprisingly, Curvv didn’t create as much buzz as anticipated. This might be due to the coupe SUV’s inherent limitations in practicality. The sloping roofline reduces rear headroom and cuts down some boot space, which makes it less appealing than traditional SUVs for Indian families.

However, the Curvv still managed to clock impressive sales numbers, with around 5,000 units sold, a figure that is ten times the entire sales of Citroën Basalt. This highlights Tata’s strong brand trust and market reach, even for a less practical car segment like coupe SUVs.

Explore Tata Curvv, specifications, color options and gallery

5. Honda Amaze

The Honda Amaze truly amazed everyone by offering Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) at a price under ₹12 lakh. As a no-nonsense compact sedan, it struck the perfect balance between affordability and advanced technology.

Explore Honda Amaze, specifications, color options and gallery

4. Mahindra Thar Roxx

Mahindra has outdone itself with this model, offering a robust ladder-on-frame chassis, a choice between RWD and 4WD options, and a truly unique design.

What sets the Thar Roxx apart is its interior. The reclining rear seats provide unexpected comfort, while the plush cabin complements its off-road DNA, making it equally suitable for urban commutes and weekend adventures.

The excitement for this SUV was palpable—1.6 lakh bookings were made within just an hour of its launch, and the waiting period has stretched to an incredible 18 months.

Explore Mahindra Thar Roxx Specs, features, Variants and Price

3. Maruti Dzire

The Maruti Dzire made a significant impact in 2024 by securing a 5-star safety rating, challenging the long-held perception of Maruti cars as "tin can" vehicles. This was a bold step for the brand, showing its commitment to improving safety standards across its range.

What also mattered was the introduction of a wide array of new features, transforming the Dzire into an affordable executive compact sedan. With premium additions and a refined design, it now offers a blend of practicality and sophistication, making it a great choice for those looking for a reliable yet stylish sedan on a budget.

Dzire features, specs and price

2. MG Windsor

The MG Windsor made waves in 2024, primarily due to its innovative battery-as-a-service model, which allows customers to lease the battery separately, making electric vehicles more affordable and accessible. This bold move revolutionized the way we think about EV ownership in India.

The Windsor’s form factor was also unique, with MG labeling it as a CUV (Crossover Utility Vehicle), combining the practicality of an SUV with the sleekness of a luxury car.

MG Windsor specs, features and price

1. Mahindra BE 6

The Mahindra BE 6 has made an undeniable mark as the game-changing car of 2024, not just for India, but for the global electric vehicle (EV) market. Initially launched as the BE 6E, it was renamed due to trademark issues with the Indigo brand, but that minor hiccup hasn’t affected its tremendous impact.

This electric SUV offers a remarkable 500+ km range, effectively eliminating the concern of range anxiety that many potential EV buyers face. In addition, it comes with a lifetime battery warranty, ensuring there are no worries about battery degradation over time. The BE 6 also features ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), enhancing safety, and uses the modular INGLO platform, making it a highly versatile and durable vehicle.

BE 6 has set new standards for electric vehicles. Prior to unveiling of BE 6, Tata Curvv EV was looked upon as the most refined EV under 20 lakh bracket. BE 6 has made it feel like one generation old! That's Mahindra's Check Mate to all other auto manufacturers in India!