Although no longer India’s best-selling SUV maker, Tata Motors ended FY24 with the popular Punch and Nexon models as the best-selling SUVs in the country. The Nexon maintained its dominance in the subcompact SUV segment for the third year in a row, taking the top spot, closely followed by the Punch.
In 2023-2024, the Nexon recorded sales of a whopping 171,697 units. Notably, the Nexon has reached a major milestone by selling more than 700,000 units in its seventh year since its launch in 2017. On the other hand, the Punch sold 1,70,076 units in the same period, cementing its position as the second best-selling SUV. Furthermore, the latter also topped the sales charts in March and April 2024.
The compact SUV segment’s market share increased from 4% to 7%, while the broader SUV segment’s market share increased from 8% to 14%.
Tata Nexon, Tata Punch: Why these models are so popular
First and foremost, it is safe. In a market where consumer mindsets have changed and safety is prioritized over budget and mileage, both the Nexon and Punch SUVs have received five-star ratings from GNCAP. Notably, the company’s Nexon EV and Punch EV electric models recently received a five-star rating from Bharat NCAP, making them India’s safest electric SUVs. Punch EV was also slightly better in terms of scores.
On the other hand, Tata Motors offers a wide range of engine and transmission options for the Nexon and the Punch. The Nexon is available with petrol and diesel engines and four transmissions: 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, 6-speed AMT and the new 7-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT).
The Punch features a single petrol engine mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox or a 5-speed AMT. A CNG version is also available. Both models are also available as fully electric versions. The company is also preparing to launch the CNG version of the Nexon soon.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.