India’s sub-4 metre SUV segment is preparing for its next big battle. After years of domination by models like Tata Nexon, Maruti Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet and Mahindra XUV 3XO, the category is now moving into a new phase driven by hybrids, EVs, rugged lifestyle designs and more premium features. Between 2026 and 2028, almost every major carmaker is expected to bring a new or heavily updated compact SUV to India. The compact SUV segment is entering its most competitive