New Bajaj QUTE : The Indian micro-mobility landscape witnessed a significant transformation yesterday as Bajaj Auto unveiled the completely redesigned second-generation QUTE quadricycle at a high-profile launch event in Mumbai.
Sporting a dramatic design overhaul and substantially upgraded features, the new QUTE represents Bajaj’s renewed commitment to revolutionizing urban transportation with its “Shandar Safar” (Spectacular Journey) campaign.
The launch comes at a pivotal moment as urban congestion reaches critical levels in major Indian cities, with the company positioning the revamped QUTE as the intelligent middle ground between traditional autorickshaws and entry-level passenger cars.
Rajiv Bajaj, Managing Director of Bajaj Auto, described the new QUTE as “the urban mobility solution that India has been waiting for—combining the footprint of a three-wheeler with the comfort, safety and weather protection of a car, all at a truly accessible price point.”
First introduced in 2018, the original QUTE faced regulatory hurdles and limited consumer acceptance despite its innovative approach to affordable urban transportation.
Design Evolution: From Utilitarian to Shandar
The second-generation QUTE undergoes a dramatic visual transformation, shedding the utilitarian appearance of its predecessor for what Bajaj describes as “contemporary micro-car aesthetics with distinctly Indian sensibilities.”
Its redesigned front fascia features sleeker LED headlamps connected by a chrome-accented grille, creating a more sophisticated face that aligns with current automotive design trends.
The side profile reveals more pronounced wheel arches and character lines, giving the compact quadricycle a more substantial, car-like presence despite retaining its minimal footprint.
Large glass areas have been maintained to preserve the airy, spacious feeling inside the cabin while improving visibility for drivers navigating crowded urban streets.
The rear design incorporates vertically stacked LED taillights and a more sculpted bumper, completing the visual transformation from purely functional vehicle to stylish urban runabout.
Available in six vibrant colors including the signature “Electric Blue” and the new “Spice Orange,” the color palette has been specifically developed to stand out in India’s often chaotic traffic conditions.
Premium touches previously absent from the segment include body-colored door handles, alloy wheels on higher variants, and even a subtle rear spoiler that adds a sporty touch to the diminutive vehicle.
Cabin Comfort and Feature Upgrades
The interior represents perhaps the most significant upgrade, with Bajaj addressing the sparse cabin of the original model through vastly improved materials, equipment, and attention to detail.
Seating capacity remains at four passengers (including the driver), but new ergonomically designed seats with improved cushioning and fabric upholstery significantly enhance comfort for longer journeys.
The dashboard adopts a more contemporary layout with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring smartphone connectivity, navigation, and even voice command functionality on premium variants.
Climate control comes in the form of a more powerful air conditioning system with four adjustable vents, addressing a major criticism of the previous model, particularly for operation in India’s extreme summer temperatures.
Power windows, central locking with keyless entry, and even a rudimentary digital instrument cluster bring the QUTE closer to passenger car expectations while maintaining its affordability positioning.
Storage solutions have been significantly enhanced with multiple cubbyholes, cup holders, door pockets, and a glove box—practical additions previously lacking in the spartan original.
Rear passenger comfort receives special attention with adjustable headrests, grab handles, and dedicated mobile phone holders, acknowledging the vehicle’s potential for commercial passenger transport applications.
Technical Specifications and Performance
The new QUTE is powered by an upgraded 216cc four-stroke, single-cylinder engine producing 13.5 horsepower and 18.9 Nm of torque—modest figures by conventional automotive standards but representing a 20% increase over its predecessor.
This powerplant comes in two fuel options: a petrol variant and a CNG version primarily targeted at commercial operators seeking lower running costs despite the slight power reduction in CNG mode.
The transmission remains a 5-speed manual with reverse gear, though Bajaj engineers have refined the shifting mechanism for smoother operation in stop-and-go traffic conditions.
Despite the power increase, fuel efficiency remains impressive with the petrol variant delivering a claimed 35 km/l and the CNG version stretching even further to an equivalent of 45 km/l.
Top speed has been electronically limited to 70 km/h, acknowledging the vehicle’s urban focus while providing sufficient capability for occasional intercity travel on secondary roads.
The suspension setup has been comprehensively retuned, with independent front suspension and a coil spring rear arrangement that balances ride comfort with the handling stability necessary for a four-wheeled vehicle of this size.
Structural enhancements include a reinforced monocoque shell with side impact beams, significantly improving crash protection compared to conventional three-wheeled alternatives.
Technical Specifications Table
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 216cc, single-cylinder, 4-stroke |
| Maximum Power | 13.5 HP @ 5500 RPM (Petrol) / 11.8 HP @ 5200 RPM (CNG) |
| Maximum Torque | 18.9 Nm @ 4000 RPM (Petrol) / 16.1 Nm @ 3800 RPM (CNG) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual with reverse |
| Fuel Options | Petrol / CNG (bi-fuel) |
| Fuel Efficiency | 35 km/l (Petrol) / 45 km/l equivalent (CNG) |
| Top Speed | 70 km/h (electronically limited) |
| Front Suspension | Independent, McPherson strut |
| Rear Suspension | Coil spring with hydraulic shock absorbers |
| Braking System | Disc (front), drum (rear) with diagonal split circuit |
| Tires | 145/80 R12 (all four wheels) |
| Length | 2752 mm |
| Width | 1312 mm |
| Height | 1652 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1925 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 180 mm |
| Turning Radius | 3.5 meters |
| Seating Capacity | 4 persons (including driver) |
| Cargo Capacity | 180 liters (rear compartment) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 8 liters (Petrol) / 35 liters water equivalent (CNG) |
| Kerb Weight | 485 kg (Petrol) / 535 kg (CNG) |
| Safety Features | Driver airbag, ABS, seat belts for all occupants |
| Entertainment System | 7-inch touchscreen with smartphone connectivity |
| Starting Price | ₹3.99 lakh (ex-showroom) |
Safety Enhancements
Safety receives particular emphasis in the new QUTE, with Bajaj addressing criticisms of the original model through significant structural and feature improvements.
Most notably, the quadricycle now comes equipped with a driver airbag on all variants and an optional passenger airbag on the premium versions—unprecedented safety features in this vehicle category.
Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is now standard equipment, working in conjunction with the front disc and rear drum brake setup to provide controlled stopping power in various road conditions.
All four seats feature three-point seatbelts with pretensioners, a critical safety upgrade compared to the basic restraints found in traditional three-wheelers.
The monocoque structure has been reinforced with high-strength steel in key areas, creating a more robust passenger cell that exceeds the quadricycle safety norms established by the Indian government.
Electronic stability control—a first for this vehicle category—provides an additional safety net by helping maintain directional control during emergency maneuvers or on slippery surfaces.
Impact sensors automatically cut off the fuel supply in the event of a collision, reducing fire risk and providing an extra layer of post-crash protection.
Market Positioning and Target Audience
Bajaj has positioned the new QUTE to appeal to multiple segments simultaneously, reflecting the vehicle’s versatility as both private and commercial transportation.
For commercial operators, the QUTE offers significantly lower operating costs than conventional taxis while providing greater comfort, safety, and weather protection than traditional auto-rickshaws.
Private buyers in congested urban areas represent another key demographic, with the QUTE offering easier parking, maneuverability, and lower running costs than entry-level cars.
Rural and semi-urban markets present substantial growth potential, where the QUTE’s durability, ground clearance, and fuel efficiency make it well-suited to challenging infrastructure conditions.
The pricing strategy places the QUTE in a unique position between premium three-wheelers and budget passenger cars, starting at ₹3.99 lakh for the base petrol variant and extending to ₹4.99 lakh for the top-spec CNG model (all prices ex-showroom).
Four distinct variants will be available at launch—Essential, Comfort, Premium, and Premium+—with progressive feature additions at each level to address diverse customer needs and budgets.
Corporate and institutional buyers comprise another target segment, with Bajaj developing special fleet packages for companies seeking sustainable employee transportation solutions.
Practical Features for Indian Conditions
Understanding the challenging operating environment in India, Bajaj engineers have incorporated numerous practical features specifically tailored to local conditions.
Ground clearance has been increased to 180mm—higher than many entry-level cars—allowing the QUTE to navigate unpaved roads and substantial speed breakers with confidence.
The electrical system has been completely waterproofed to ensure reliability during monsoon seasons, addressing a common pain point for vehicle owners in many regions of India.
A high-mounted air intake reduces the risk of water ingestion during flooding, while enhanced underbody protection shields vital components from damage on rough roads.
The air conditioning system has been benchmarked specifically against Indian summer conditions, with testing conducted in regions like Rajasthan where temperatures regularly exceed 45°C.
The fuel filler placement has been redesigned for easier access at crowded fuel stations, while the CNG variant features a streamlined refilling process compared to the cumbersome arrangements common in retrofitted vehicles.
USB charging ports for all passengers recognize the ubiquity of smartphones and other personal devices, particularly important for vehicles likely to be used in ride-sharing applications.
Manufacturing and Quality Control
The new QUTE is manufactured at Bajaj’s dedicated quadricycle facility in Waluj, Maharashtra, which has undergone significant upgrades to accommodate the more sophisticated second-generation model.
Production processes now incorporate over 30 automated quality checkpoints throughout assembly, ensuring consistent build quality previously challenging to maintain with primarily manual methods.
Material improvements include extensive use of galvanized steel for critical body components, addressing corrosion concerns that emerged from early QUTE models operating in coastal regions.
Paint application now utilizes a multi-layer process similar to passenger cars, with clear coat protection providing enhanced durability against harsh environmental conditions.
Component testing has been dramatically expanded, with parts now undergoing accelerated life testing equivalent to 100,000 kilometers of operation before approval for production.
Every vehicle undergoes a comprehensive road test before delivery, evaluating 57 separate performance parameters to ensure mechanical integrity and operational refinement.
The facility maintains ISO 9001:2015 quality management certification alongside more stringent automotive-specific quality standards typically associated with passenger car production.
Environmental Credentials
Despite not being a zero-emission vehicle, the QUTE presents significant environmental advantages over conventional transportation options in its intended use cases.
Its minimal weight and efficient powertrain result in a carbon footprint approximately 40% smaller than entry-level passenger cars performing similar transportation roles.
The CNG variant produces significantly lower particulate emissions compared to diesel alternatives, addressing a critical air quality concern in India’s already polluted urban centers.
Materials selection increasingly incorporates recycled components, with approximately 25% of non-structural plastic parts derived from recycled sources.
Manufacturing energy consumption per vehicle is approximately 60% lower than conventional passenger cars due to the QUTE’s simplified construction and lighter material requirements.
Bajaj has implemented a comprehensive end-of-life recycling program, ensuring that 85% of the vehicle by weight can be reclaimed and repurposed at the conclusion of its service life.
Future Development Roadmap
During the launch event, Bajaj executives provided intriguing glimpses into the future evolution of the QUTE platform beyond the current internal combustion engine variants.
A fully electric version is reportedly in advanced development, with prototype testing already underway and a potential market introduction targeted within 18-24 months.
The electric QUTE is expected to offer approximately 120 kilometers of real-world range, positioning it ideally for urban commercial applications with predictable daily routes.
Semi-autonomous features including automated parking assistance and advanced driver aids are under development for future model years, leveraging the vehicle’s electronic architecture.
Connected car technology will be expanded significantly, with future updates enabling fleet management features particularly valuable for commercial operators managing multiple vehicles.
Alternative body styles are under consideration, including a small pickup variant with enhanced cargo capacity for last-mile delivery applications in congested urban environments.
New Bajaj QUTE Conclusion
The second-generation Bajaj QUTE represents a significant maturation of the quadricycle concept in India, addressing many limitations of the original while maintaining its fundamental value proposition.
By combining enhanced safety, improved comfort, and genuinely “shandar” styling with the inherent efficiency of its compact footprint, the new QUTE makes a more compelling case as the logical evolution beyond traditional three-wheelers.
For urban India’s transportation challenges—characterized by congestion, parking scarcity, and air quality concerns—the QUTE offers a pragmatic middle path between conventional options.
The substantial upgrades across every aspect of the vehicle demonstrate Bajaj’s long-term commitment to the quadricycle category despite the initial regulatory and market acceptance challenges.
As India continues its mobility evolution, the reimagined QUTE emerges as an increasingly relevant solution—one that acknowledges economic realities while providing a genuine upgrade path for millions of commuters seeking more comfortable, safer, and still affordable transportation.