Best Car Reviews Of 2021: Mahindra XUV700, Tata Punch, Maruti Suzuki Celerio And More

The year 2021 was not an easy one. Right from the second wave of coronavirus pandemic to the global shortage of semiconductors, the Indian auto industry saw new several challenges in this past one year. As for us, we faced the challenge of bringing you our reviews that you eagerly wait for, amidst these challenging times. However, despite following the restrictions and safety measures, we did manage to drive some amazing cars this year. So, as 2021 comes to an end we decided to list down some of the most popular reviews we did this year. We must remind you that for this list we are only taking new, mass-market products that were launched this year.

1. Tata Safari

Also Read: 2021 Tata Safari Review

The Tata Safari was one of the first cars that we tested in 2021. In addition to being a 3-row version of the Harrier, the model also revived the iconic Safari nameplate which made it even more special for us. The SUV is offered in just one 2.0-litre diesel engine, with the option of a 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic torque converter.

2. Hyundai Alcazar

Also Read: Hyundai Alcazar Review

Like the Safari, its rival, the 3-row Alcazar is also based on a 5-seater SUV - the Hyundai Creta. The SUV comes in both 6- and 7-seater options and gets several additional features that are not available in Creta. Hyundai offers the Alcazar in both petrol and diesel engine options, with manual and automatic choices.

3. Skoda Kushaq

Also Read: Skoda Kushaq SUV Review: The Arrival Of The King

A Skoda Kushaq was the first model to be built on the company's MQB-A0-IN platform, so naturally, there was a great amount of interest around compact SUV. Launched to rival the likes of the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos, the Kushaq come with over 90 per cent localisation. The SUV is powered by a 1.0-litre TSI and a 1.5-litre TSI engine, both offered in manual and automatic choices.

4. Volkswagen Taigun

Also Read: Volkswagen Taigun 1.5 GT TSI Review

Soon after the Kushaq, we also got the test its cousin, the Volkswagen VW Taigun. Like the Kushaq, the VW SUV is also built on the company's MQB-A0-IN platform and gets the same engine and transmission choices. Both SUVs are also priced similarly, which makes the competition between them even more interesting.

5. Mahindra XUV700

Also Read: Mahindra XUV700 Review

One of the most anticipated SUV launches for 2021, we were itching to get our hands on the Mahindra XUV700. The replacement for the popular XUV500, the new XUV700 was bigger, smarter, and much more premium. But what was really impressive was the aggressive pricing strategy of the company that made it highly desirable. The SUV is offered in both petrol and diesel engine options, with manual and automatic choices, and it has a 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP.

6. Tata Punch

Also Read: The Tata Punch Micro SUV Review

Apart from a flagship, this year Tata also launched its smallest SUV with the Punch micro SUV. Based on the company's ALFA platform, the Tata Punch is compact from the outside and spacious from inside, and it also comes with a peppy 1.2-litre petrol engine, mated to a 5-speed manual and an AMT unit. Interestingly, this too has received a 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP.

7. Maruti Suzuki Celerio

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki Celerio Review

This year, Maruti Suzuki launched the new-gen Celerio, which received a generation upgrade after 7 years. The small hatchback comes with a new design and styling, along with improved features and an ARAI certifies mileage of 26.68 kmpl, making it the most fuel-efficient petrol car in India. The Celerio gets a new 1.0-litre engine mated to a 5-speed manual and an AMT unit.