Toyota's New 7-Seater SUV Spotted Testing in India — Launch Likely by Year-End

In a significant development for SUV enthusiasts and large families alike, Toyota’s upcoming 7-seater SUV has been spotted testing on Indian roads. The Japanese auto giant, already known for its robust offerings in the Indian market, is now gearing up to introduce a new mid-size 7-seater SUV, potentially expanding its Urban Cruiser and Grand Vitara-inspired lineup.

First Look: Spotted During Road Testing

The vehicle was recently seen heavily camouflaged during test runs, revealing little about the final design. However, the visible rear exhaust setup and overall body proportions have led to speculation that this could be a 7-seater iteration of the Grand Vitara, tailored for space-hungry Indian families.

Key Highlights Expected

As per industry sources, Toyota is likely developing this SUV in partnership with Suzuki, possibly as an extended version of the Urban Cruiser Hyryder or Maruti Grand Vitara. Here’s what we know so far:

• Segment: Mid-size SUV with 7-seat layout

• Powertrain (expected): Petrol or Strong Hybrid options

• Likely platform: Suzuki’s Global C-platform

• Positioning: Above Urban Cruiser Hyryder

Features That Might Be Included

Toyota is expected to equip the SUV with premium features and ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System), including:

• Adaptive Cruise Control

• Lane Keep Assist

• Automatic Emergency Braking

• 360-degree Camera

• Large touchscreen with connected tech

• Dual-zone climate control

• Ventilated front seats

The focus will likely be on comfort, safety, and space, making it ideal for both urban families and long-distance travelers.

Expected Launch Timeline

Although Toyota has not made an official announcement, automobile insiders suggest a launch by late 2025, possibly aligning with the festive season in India — a strategic time when car sales typically surge.

Competitors in the 7-Seater SUV Segment

The upcoming Toyota SUV will enter a highly competitive space and is expected to rival:

• Mahindra Scorpio-N

• Tata Safari

• MG Hector Plus (JSW MG Hector)

• Mahindra XUV700

If priced competitively, Toyota could shake up the mid-size 7-seater market with a fuel-efficient, tech-packed, and spacious new entrant.