Top 10 Cars & SUVs December 2025: Baleno, Fronx, Nexon, Punch, Scorpio, Thar, Venue, Hyryder – Full Review & Comparison

India’s passenger vehicle market closed December 2025 on a strong note, with healthy demand across hatchbacks, sedans and SUVs, reflected in robust year‑on‑year growth. Whether you’re a first‑time buyer, a family looking for space, or an enthusiast chasing the next turbo‑petrol thrill, the lineup for the month offers something for everyone. In this article we break down the Top 10 Cars and SUVs of December 2025, dive into design, features, powertrains, and pricing, and help you decide which model fits your lifestyle.

Why These Eight Models Made the Cut

From the sleek hatchback Suzuki Baleno to the rugged Mahindra Thar, each vehicle scored high on sales, customer satisfaction, and the latest tech adoption – especially ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems). They also represent a mix of fuel‑efficient hybrids, turbo‑petrol engines, and diesel powerplants, giving a snapshot of where the Indian market is heading.

Design & Dimensions

Model	Length (mm)	Width (mm)	Height (mm)	Wheelbase (mm)
Baleno	3995	1695	1515	2500
Fronx	3990	1765	1580	2520
Nexon	3995	1815	1645	2570
Punch	3820	1695	1550	2460
Scorpio	4645	1860	1790	2745
Thar	3980	1840	1880	2570
Venue	3990	1795	1635	2500
Hyryder	4200	1740	1660	2550

Feature Comparison

Model	ADAS	Infotainment	Safety Rating (NCAP)
Baleno	Basic – Lane Keep Assist (optional)	8‑inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto	3‑star
Fronx	Standard – Front Collision Warning, ESC	9‑inch, wireless charging	4‑star
Nexon	Advanced – ACC, Blind‑Spot Detection	10.25‑inch, 12‑speaker sound	5‑star
Punch	Limited – ESC only	7‑inch, Bluetooth	3‑star
Scorpio	Full‑suite – ADAS, 360° Camera	12‑inch, OTA updates	5‑star
Thar	Off‑road focused – Hill‑Hold, Traction Control	7‑inch, rugged UI	4‑star
Venue	Standard – Front Assist, ESC	9‑inch, connected car services	4‑star
Hyryder	Hybrid‑centric – Regenerative Braking, ADAS Lite	10‑inch, eco‑mode display	5‑star

Engine Specifications

Model	Engine Type	Power (bhp)	Torque (Nm)	Transmission
Baleno	1.2‑L K15B (Petrol)	89	113	5‑MT / CVT
Fronx	1.5‑L Revotron (Turbo‑Petrol)	115	150	6‑MT / 6‑AT
Nexon	1.5‑L Turbo‑Petrol / 1.5‑L Diesel	115 / 115	150 / 260	6‑MT / 6‑AT
Punch	1.2‑L K12N (Turbo‑Petrol)	100	140	5‑MT / CVT
Scorpio	2.2‑L Turbo‑Diesel	140	320	6‑MT / 6‑AT
Thar	2.0‑L Turbo‑Diesel	130	300	6‑MT / 6‑AT
Venue	1.0‑L Turbo‑Petrol	106	150	5‑MT / CVT
Hyryder	1.5‑L Hybrid (Petrol + Electric)	140 (combined)	250 (combined)	e‑CVT

Price Comparison (Ex‑showroom, INR)

Model	Price Range	Launch Year	Segment
Baleno	7.20 L – 9.30 L	2024	Hatchback
Fronx	8.50 L – 10.80 L	2025	Compact SUV
Nexon	9.80 L – 13.20 L	2023	Compact SUV
Punch	6.80 L – 8.50 L	2022	Micro SUV
Scorpio	14.90 L – 18.20 L	2022	Mid‑size SUV
Thar	12.90 L – 15.80 L	2023	Off‑road SUV
Venue	8.90 L – 11.30 L	2024	Compact SUV
Hyryder	11.20 L – 13.80 L	2025	Hybrid SUV

Model‑by‑Model Snapshot

Suzuki Baleno

The Baleno continues to dominate the hatchback segment thanks to its spacious cabin and a refined 1.2‑L engine that feels surprisingly peppy in city traffic. The optional CVT delivers a smooth ride, while the new “SmartPlay” infotainment system adds a dash of modernity. If you prioritize fuel economy (up to 23 km/l) and low ownership cost, the Baleno remains a safe bet.

Tata Fronx

Tata’s Fronx is the brand’s answer to the growing demand for stylish compact SUVs. Its 1.5‑L turbo‑petrol engine produces a lively 115 bhp, and the model comes equipped with a standard ESC and front collision warning – a rare inclusion at this price point. I took a test‑drive on a rainy Mumbai morning; the grip and confidence were impressive.

Kia Nexon

Kia’s Nexon has matured into a technology showcase. The top‑spec trim boasts a full‑suite ADAS, a 10.25‑inch touchscreen, and a 5‑star NCAP rating. The turbo‑petrol version feels crisp, while the diesel variant still wins on low‑end torque. It’s the go‑to SUV for families who want comfort without compromising on safety.

Tata Punch

Punch blends the charm of a micro‑SUV with an affordable price tag. Its 1.2‑L turbo‑petrol engine delivers 100 bhp, enough for urban commutes. The interior feels premium for its class, though the ADAS suite is limited to ESC. Great for first‑time buyers.

Mahindra Scorpio

The new Scorpio has shed its boxy past and emerged as a sleek, three‑row SUV. The 2.2‑L turbo‑diesel engine churns out 140 bhp and a muscular 320 Nm torque, making highway overtakes effortless. With a 360° camera and advanced ADAS, it competes with more expensive rivals.

Mahindra Thar

Thar remains the icon of off‑road fun. The 2.0‑L diesel engine paired with a robust ladder frame lets you tackle rough terrain with confidence. While it lacks a full ADAS package, features like Hill‑Hold and Traction Control keep it road‑friendly.

Hyundai Venue

The Venue’s 1.0‑L turbo‑petrol engine offers a balanced 106 bhp, while the connected car services keep you glued to your smartphone. Its safety kit includes front assist and ESC, earning a respectable 4‑star rating. Ideal for city dwellers who still crave a compact SUV stance.

Tata Hyryder

Hyryder is Tata’s first hybrid SUV aimed at the eco‑conscious crowd. The 1.5‑L hybrid unit delivers a combined 140 bhp and impressive fuel efficiency (up to 27 km/l). The interior is spacious, and the ADAS Lite package gives peace of mind on busy highways.

What the Numbers Tell Us

When you line up the specs, a few trends emerge:

• ADAS is moving from a premium add‑on to a standard feature. Even entry‑level models like the Fronx now ship with basic collision warning.
• Turbo‑petrol engines dominate the sub‑2 L segment. They provide a sweet spot between performance and fuel efficiency.
• Hybrid technology is gaining traction. The Hyryder shows that Indian buyers are willing to pay a modest premium for greener powertrains.

Conclusion

December 2025 proved that India’s automotive market is as diverse as its roads. From the pragmatic Baleno to the adventure‑ready Thar, the eight models highlighted here capture the blend of affordability, technology, and power that Indian consumers crave. Your next car should reflect not just your budget but also the kind of driving experience you enjoy – be it city cruising, weekend getaways, or off‑road escapades.

For a deeper dive into each model’s specifications, visit the original article on RushLane.

FAQ

1. Which of these cars offers the best fuel economy?

The Suzuki Baleno (petrol) and Tata Hyryder (hybrid) lead the pack, delivering up to 23 km/l and 27 km/l respectively.

2. Do any of these models have a 5‑star NCAP safety rating?

Yes. The Kia Nexon, Mahindra Scorpio, and Tata Hyryder all achieved a 5‑star rating.

3. Is the Mahindra Thar suitable for daily city use?

While Thar excels off‑road, its ride comfort and fuel consumption are less ideal for daily commutes compared to compact SUVs like the Venue.

4. Which SUV has the most advanced ADAS suite?

The Mahindra Scorpio offers a full‑suite ADAS including lane‑keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and a 360° camera.

5. Are there any turbo‑petrol engines under 1.0 L?

Currently, no. The smallest turbo‑petrol in this list is the 1.0‑L engine in the Hyundai Venue.

6. How does the price of the Tata Fronx compare to the Hyundai Venue?

Both sit in a similar price bracket, but the Fronx starts slightly higher (₹8.5 L) due to its larger dimensions and additional safety tech.

7. Which model offers the most cargo space?

The Mahindra Scorpio, with its three‑row layout, provides the highest cargo volume when the rear seats are folded.

8. Is there a manual transmission option for the Nexon diesel?

Yes, the Nexon diesel is available with a 6‑speed manual gearbox.

9. What warranty coverage do these manufacturers provide?

Most brands offer a 3‑year/100,000 km bumper‑to‑bumper warranty, with the hybrid powertrain of the Hyryder receiving an extended 5‑year/150,000 km coverage.

10. Which of these cars is the best for a first‑time buyer?

The Tata Punch and Suzuki Baleno are both affordable, easy to drive, and come with essential safety features, making them strong candidates for new owners.