India Did Not Buy These 5 Cars Because…

Last year was marked by standout launches such as the Hyundai Creta facelift, the 2024 Maruti Swift, and the Tata Curvv. However, there were a few models launched in 2024 that, despite their promising offerings and high anticipation, failed to attract Indian car buyers. These not only include premium SUV offerings but also some of the mainstream options. 

Take a look at five cars launched in 2024 that struggled to draw customer interest, along with their primary reasons for underperforming sales. 

Citroen Basalt

With the launch of the Basalt, Citroen aimed to tap into the SUV-coupe segment with its practicality and aggressive pricing. It also offers standout features like adjustable under-thigh support, and winged headrests, along with niceties like wireless phone charging, and automatic climate control. 

Despite this, its average sales over the past three months stood at just 62 units per month, significantly lower than its key rival, Tata Curvv. This could be attributed to its relatively under-equipped cabin and unimpressive performance from its petrol engine options.

Nissan Magnite Facelift

Nissan gave the Magnite its first facelift since its debut in 2020. The updates include minor tweaks to the exterior and interior along with a few added features.

While these changes refreshed the Magnite, they were not significant for its first major update. Despite expectations for improved sales, the 2024 Magnite continues to average around 2,000 units per month.

Nissan X-Trail

The Nissan X-Trail made its comeback in the Indian car market after a decade. With the mid-size SUV segment attracting new buyers, the X-Trail had the potential to become a strong offering for Nissan.

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However, its sub-Rs 50 lakh price tag and a single powertrain option failed to appeal to buyers. In fact, there have been months with either no takers for the X-Trail or sales limited to just a single unit.

Citroen C3 

Citroen updated its entry-level hatchback, the C3, with new features and the option of an automatic gearbox. The updates include automatic climate control, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, and the standard fitment of six airbags, helping it stay competitive with rivals like the Maruti Swift and Tata Punch.

However, despite these updates and the availability of a more powerful turbo-petrol engine compared to its competitors, the C3 struggled to capture a wider audience.

Mahindra XUV400 EV

The Mahindra XUV400 EV received updates, including a new exterior shade, refreshed interiors, and features such as a 10.25-inch infotainment system and a digital driver's display. These updates brought it on par with the Tata Nexon EV, but the XUV400 continues to find momentum in sales.

Meanwhile, test mules of the upcoming XUV 3XO EV have been spotted, showcasing a design similar to its ICE-powered counterpart. It is also expected to offer a well-equipped cabin with a range of 456 km, which could help boost its sales momentum.

Bonus: Citroen C5 Aircross

The Citroen C5 Aircross continues to be the worst-performing product in the brand's India portfolio. In 2024, Citroen discontinued its base variant, making the mid-size SUV less accessible than before.

Priced at Rs 40 lakh (ex-showroom), the C5 Aircross struggles to achieve even double-digit sales numbers, with some months recording no buyers at all.

These cars were good products, but didn't take-off as intended and with the manufacturers investing their effort in R&D, as well as marketing, seeing these cars failing in sales is a sad sight.

Share your thoughts in the comments below on which of the above-mentioned models you did not expect to be part of this list.