The Indian automobile market is set for an exciting kickoff to 2026

January bringing a wave of highly anticipated new car launches and significant updates. Major manufacturers including Kia, Mahindra, Maruti Suzuki, Renault, Tata, MG, Nissan, and Toyota are rolling out around seven new or refreshed models. These vehicles feature bolder designs, advanced technology, enhanced safety features, and diverse powertrain options—from next-gen petrol SUVs to the country’s first mass-market electric SUVs—catering to a wide range of buyers.

Kia Seltos (Second Generation)

Kicking off the month on January 2, 2026, the all-new second-generation Kia Seltos arrives on the advanced K3 platform. It sports a more assertive and upright stance, drawing inspiration from Kia’s larger global SUVs. Key highlights include a prominent wide grille with vertical elements, squared LED headlamps, a unique vertical DRL pattern, and inverted L-shaped LED tail-lamps at the rear (with the number plate now on the bumper).

The cabin receives a premium makeover, featuring a seamless dual 12.3-inch digital display setup for infotainment and instrumentation, plus a separate climate control screen. Top features include ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, Bose premium audio, a 360-degree camera, wireless charging, over-the-air (OTA) updates, and Level 2 ADAS.

Engine options carry over from the previous model, with petrol and diesel variants mated to manual, CVT, IMT, and DCT transmissions.

Mahindra XUV 7XO

Arriving on January 5, 2026, the Mahindra XUV 7XO is essentially a heavily facelifted version of the popular XUV700, adopting Mahindra’s new naming convention (following the XUV 3XO).

Exterior changes include a redesigned grille, updated lighting signatures, and fresh alloy wheels, incorporating design cues from Mahindra’s recent electric SUVs.

The interior is expected to boast a modern triple-screen dashboard and flexible seating configurations.

Powertrains are likely unchanged, retaining the 2.0-litre turbo-petrol and 2.2-litre diesel engines, with manual and automatic options, plus AWD on higher variants.

Skoda Kushaq Facelift

Slated for a mid-January debut, the Skoda Kushaq mid-cycle facelift brings cosmetic and feature enhancements. Expect revised bumpers, a refreshed grille, and sleeker LED tail-lamps for a sharper look.

Inside, upgrades may include a panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera, and Level 2 ADAS, while keeping pricing competitive in the compact SUV segment. Engine choices are expected to remain the same.

New Renault Duster

The iconic nameplate returns on January 26, 2026, with the all-new generation Renault Duster. Inspired by the Bigster concept, it adopts a tougher, more rugged appearance featuring Y-shaped LED headlights, prominent body cladding, squared wheel arches, and impressive ground clearance.

The interior gets a fresh rugged-themed dashboard, digital displays, wireless connectivity, ventilated seats, and advanced driver-assistance systems. While global versions offer hybrid and 4×4 options, the India-spec model is anticipated to launch with a turbo-petrol engine.

Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara

Maruti Suzuki makes its electric vehicle debut in January 2026 with the e-Vitara, the brand’s first all-electric midsize SUV. Built on the new Heartect-e platform, it features a bold, muscular design influenced by the eVX concept.

The cabin includes dual floating screens, a contemporary centre console, and Level 2 ADAS. It will be available with two LFP battery packs—49kWh and 61kWh—with the larger one promising a claimed range of up to 500 km (some sources suggest up to 543 km).

Nissan Gravite

Nissan enters the sub-four-metre family MPV segment with the Gravite, a seven-seater based on the Renault Triber platform. Expected to be unveiled in January 2026 (with full availability likely in early 2026), it offers a practical 2+3+2 seating layout, an 8-inch touchscreen, multiple safety features, and budget-friendly pricing tailored for family buyers.

Toyota Urban Cruiser EV

Closely related to the Maruti e-Vitara (thanks to the Suzuki-Toyota partnership), the Toyota Urban Cruiser EV is set for an unveiling in January 2026, with sales expected by March. It will feature two battery options, a strong driving range (potentially over 500 km), connected technology, and Level 2 ADAS, positioning it as a premium electric SUV alternative.

Additional Notable Updates

• Tata Punch Facelift: Expected in January with refreshed styling, upgraded interiors, a larger touchscreen, and continued emphasis on safety (including possible six airbags as standard). The petrol engine stays the same, while the EV variant may gain improved range.
• 2026 MG Hector Diesel: MG has teased the updated Hector, with diesel variant pricing and availability starting in January. Updates include minor exterior tweaks, new colours, and a refreshed cabin with a larger 14-inch touchscreen, gesture controls, and enhanced connected features.

Conclusion

January 2026 promises to be one of the most action-packed months for Indian car buyers in recent years. With a strong mix of refreshed bestsellers, bold new designs, and the much-awaited arrival of mainstream electric SUVs, this lineup addresses diverse needs—from family practicality and rugged appeal to cutting-edge electrification. These launches will intensify competition across segments, likely bringing better value, advanced features, and exciting choices. Stay tuned for official prices and detailed reviews as the new year unfolds! For the latest automotive updates, keep an eye on trusted sources like The Economic Times.