IAB picks - Top 5 crossovers and SUVs coming to India in 12-15 months

The crossover and SUV segments in India are immune to slowdown and automakers simply can't afford to miss out on the surging demand for these classes of automobiles if they are serious about tapping India for volume.

Not surprisingly, a horde of crossovers and SUVs are about to invade the Indian market in the mid-term and here is our list of the top 5 new and refreshed models that you can buy in the next 12-15 months.

1. Fiat Avventura

The Fiat Avventura is an instant crossover which was unveiled in the form of a near production concept at the 2014 Auto Expo. Based on the Punto Evo facelift that is at the verge of its launch, the Avventura will lock horns with the VW Cross Polo and the Toyota Etios Cross. The makeshift crossover offers a black plastic body kit, new bumpers and wheels, and could have a slightly raised suspension. Powertrains would be borrowed from its sister, meaning it would list 1.2-liter and 1.4-liter petrol engines, and a 1.3-liter diesel engine. The launch is expected in September or October.

2. Porsche Macan

The Porsche Macan which will be launched this month caters to the higher end of the SUV spectrum. The entry-level Porsche SUV would go above the Audi Q5, BMW X3 and the Mercedes ML Class, in positioning, as a more exclusive alternative to the trio. The CBU import will be available with a 3.6-litre V6 petrol engine and a 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine, coupled to a 7-speed PDK automatic gearbox.

3. Mahindra Scorpio facelift

The Mahindra Scorpio facelift which is testing extensively is expected to be out in the next 6-8 months. The long overdue refresh will come with a revamped front fascia and dashboard, and a subtly revised rear fascia with LED taillights. The 2.5-litre m2DiCR (entry level EX variant) and the 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engines would be retained.

4. Renault Duster facelift

The Renault Duster for the international markets received a facelift late last year. Expected in India within 12 months, the facelift features modestly revised headlamps, front grille, bumpers and taillights. At the interior, the instrument cluster and centre consoles are new. Like most other cars in this list, the Renault Duster facelift would not change its powertrain lineup.

5. Mahindra S101

The Mahindra S101 mini SUV is the company's second grounds-up crossover, first being the XUV500. The Ford EcoSport rival would be launched sometime in 2015 with compact petrol and diesel engines that are compliant with the 'small car' regulations. The design language would be similar to that of the XUV500.