The Indian automotive market is gearing up for a busy start to 2026. Seven new vehicles will debut over the next six weeks, spanning electric SUVs, petrol-powered family haulers, and redesigned favorites. Here's what's coming and what each launch means for car buyers.
Tata Harrier and Safari Get Petrol Power
Tata Motors is adding petrol engines to its popular Harrier and Safari SUVs. Both models have only offered a 2.0-liter diesel engine until now. The new 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine, called Hyperion, recently appeared in the Tata Sierra. It produces 170 horsepower and 280 Nm of torque.
This move should help Tata price these SUVs more competitively. Petrol engines typically cost less to manufacture than diesels, and many buyers prefer them for city driving. If you've been waiting for a more affordable entry point into either SUV, the petrol variants could be worth considering.
Maruti Suzuki eVitara Arrives in January
Maruti Suzuki will launch its first electric SUV, the eVitara, in early January 2026. Built on the new Heartect-e platform designed specifically for EVs, it offers two battery options. The smaller 49 kWh pack suits urban commuters, while the larger 61.1 kWh version delivers up to 534 kilometers of range per charge.
Maruti is also introducing flexible ownership through Battery as a Service (BAAS) and subscription models. This could lower the upfront cost significantly, making EVs more accessible to middle-class families who find traditional EV pricing prohibitive.
Mahindra XUV 7XO Brings Major Updates
The Mahindra XUV700 is getting its long-awaited facelift in January, rebranded as the XUV 7XO. Expect substantial styling changes, particularly up front with a new grille, redesigned lighting, fresh bumpers, and updated tail lamps.
Inside, the cabin borrows heavily from Mahindra's electric XEV 9e and 9S models. The centerpiece is a triple-screen setup with three 12.3-inch displays. A Harman Kardon audio system with Dolby Atmos replaces the previous Sony setup. The improvements should address complaints about the current model's interior quality.
Powertrains remain unchanged. You'll still get the 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol (mStallion) or 2.2-liter turbocharged diesel (mHawk), both available with manual and automatic transmissions.
Skoda Kushaq Facelift Adds Rear Massage Seats
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| credit: autocarindia |
Skoda's updated Kushaq launches in January with notable design improvements. The front fascia gets a redesign, along with new wheels and restyled rear lighting.
The interior gains new color options and features that have become standard in this segment, like Level 2 ADAS and a panoramic sunroof. Surprisingly, Skoda is adding massage functions to the rear seats. That's currently unique in the mid-size SUV category and could appeal to chauffeur-driven buyers.
Engines carry over from the current model: a 1.0-liter TSI turbo-petrol and a 1.5-liter TSI turbo-petrol. Transmission options include manual, torque converter automatic, and DSG dual-clutch.
New Renault Duster Returns on Republic Day
Renault is bringing back the Duster nameplate with a third-generation model launching January 26, 2026. The new SUV features an upright stance with Y-shaped LED DRLs, rugged bumpers, polygonal wheel arches, roof rails, and rear door handles mounted on the C-pillar.
It sits on a heavily localized version of the CMF-B platform. Two engines will be available: a 1.2-liter turbo-petrol mild-hybrid and a 1.3-liter turbocharged petrol with EDC automatic. Both manual and automatic transmissions are expected.
The Duster has always competed on value and practicality rather than luxury. If those priorities match yours, this could be a strong option when it arrives.
Kia Seltos Second Generation Debuts January 2
The new Seltos launches January 2, 2026, built on Kia's third-generation K3 platform. It's larger than the outgoing model with updated styling and a more comfortable cabin.
The dashboard now features two 12.3-inch screens plus a small 5-inch display between them, creating a 30-inch digital cluster. That's up from the previous dual 10.25-inch setup.
Engines remain the same: 1.5-liter naturally aspirated petrol, 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol, and 1.5-liter diesel. Manual and automatic transmissions continue across the range.
What These Launches Mean for Buyers
This wave of launches shows manufacturers betting on varied powertrain strategies. Tata is expanding petrol options while Maruti commits to electrification. Mahindra, Skoda, and Kia are refreshing proven products with better tech and features.
If you're shopping in the compact or mid-size SUV segment, waiting a few weeks could give you significantly more choice. The petrol Harrier and Safari offer new value propositions, while the eVitara represents a major shift for India's largest automaker.
