Biggest Car Launches Of 2026 You Can't Ignore

2025-12-30 09:02:52

(MENAFN- Kashmir Observer) Srinagar: January 2026 is shaping up to be one of the busiest and most exciting months for India's automobile industry in recent years. Traditionally a slow period after the festive season, the opening month of the year will instead see a wave of high-profile launches spanning petrol, diesel and electric powertrains. From long-awaited comebacks and next-generation SUVs to mainstream electric vehicles and key facelifts, carmakers are lining up products that cater to a wide spectrum of buyers.

Manufacturers including Kia, Mahindra, Maruti Suzuki, Renault, Skoda, Tata, Nissan, Toyota and MG are expected to introduce new or significantly updated models, bringing sharper designs, more technology-rich cabins, upgraded safety features and diverse drivetrain options.

Kia Seltos (Second Generation)

Kia will kick off the year on January 2 with the launch of the second-generation Seltos. Built on the new K3 platform, the SUV adopts a bolder, more upright design inspired by Kia's global models like the Telluride. The interior has been completely redesigned with dual 12.3-inch screens, a dedicated climate display and a host of premium features, including Level 2 ADAS, ventilated seats and a panoramic sunroof. Engine options are expected to remain unchanged, with petrol and diesel choices offered alongside multiple transmission options.

Mahindra XUV 7XO

Launching on January 5, the Mahindra XUV 7XO is essentially a facelifted version of the XUV700, reflecting Mahindra's revised naming strategy. Styling updates include a redesigned grille, new lighting elements and fresh alloy wheels, with design cues borrowed from Mahindra's electric SUV lineup. Inside, a triple-screen dashboard layout and improved comfort levels are expected. Powertrains are likely to carry over, including the 2.0-litre turbo-petrol and 2.2-litre diesel engines, with manual, automatic and AWD options.

Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara

Maruti Suzuki's much-anticipated entry into the electric SUV space arrives in January with the e-Vitara. Based on the Heartect-e platform, the midsize electric SUV features a muscular design inspired by the eVX concept. It will be offered with two LFP battery packs-49kWh and kWh-delivering a claimed range of up to 500 km. The e-Vitara will also be Maruti's most safety-focused model yet, featuring Level 2 ADAS and a strong crash safety rating.

Renault Duster (Third Generation)

Making its return on January 26, the all-new Renault Duster marks a major reboot for the brand in India. Built on the CMF-B platform, the third-generation Duster is larger, more rugged and significantly more modern than its predecessor. Design highlights include Y-shaped LED lighting, squared wheel arches and high ground clearance. The interior will feature a new dashboard layout, digital displays and advanced connectivity. While global versions offer hybrid and AWD options, the India-spec model is expected to launch with turbo-petrol engines.

Skoda Kushaq Facelift

Skoda's mid-cycle update for the Kushaq is scheduled for mid-January. The facelift brings subtle exterior revisions, including refreshed bumpers, an updated grille and sleeker LED tail lamps. Inside, the compact SUV is expected to gain features such as a panoramic sunroof, a 360-degree camera and Level 2 ADAS, while continuing with the existing 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engines.

Tata Punch Facelift

The Tata Punch facelift will also arrive in January, bringing refreshed styling inspired by the Punch EV. Updates include a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, a fully digital instrument cluster, wireless charging and a new two-spoke steering wheel. The petrol engine is expected to continue unchanged, while safety remains a strong focus with additional features expected across variants.

Nissan Gravite

Nissan will enter the sub-four-metre MPV segment with the Gravite, a seven-seater based on the Triber platform. Aimed at budget-conscious family buyers, the Gravite will feature a practical cabin layout, touchscreen infotainment, multiple safety features and aggressive pricing.

Toyota Urban Cruiser EV

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