Upcoming Car Launches That Will Kick-Start 2026 With a Bang
The Indian automotive industry is all set to begin 2026 on a high note, with seven major car launches and unveilings scheduled for January alone. From next-generation SUVs and long-awaited facelifts to electric mobility and budget MPVs, January 2026 will offer something for every type of car buyer.
Several popular nameplates are making a comeback, while some manufacturers are introducing brand-new products to strengthen their presence in key segments. Here’s a complete and detailed list of upcoming cars in India launching in January 2026, along with expected prices, features, and highlights.
1. 2026 Kia Seltos (Second Generation)
Launch Date: January 2, 2026
Expected Price: ₹11.20 lakh (ex-showroom)
Kia is all set to launch the second-generation Seltos, one of India’s most popular compact SUVs. The new Seltos features a more aggressive design, upgraded interiors, and advanced technology.
Key Highlights:
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Dual 12.3-inch digital screens
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Touchscreen climate control panel
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Level-2 ADAS
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Premium interior upgrades
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Same petrol and diesel engines as before
Production has already started at Kia’s Anantapur plant, confirming its early January launch.
2. Mahindra XUV 7XO (XUV700 Facelift)
Launch Date: January 5, 2026
Expected Price: ₹15 lakh onwards
The facelifted XUV700 will be rebranded as the Mahindra XUV 7XO. Bookings are already open, and the SUV has been spotted testing multiple times.
What’s New:
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Triple-screen dashboard layout
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New 2-spoke steering wheel
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Updated headlights and tail lights
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Refreshed cabin upholstery
Mechanically, it is expected to retain the same petrol and diesel engine options.
3. Maruti Suzuki e Vitara (Electric SUV)
Expected Launch: Early January 2026
Expected Price: ₹17 lakh
The Maruti e Vitara will mark Maruti Suzuki’s first electric car in India. The EV has already been showcased to the media, with full powertrain and feature details revealed.
Standout Features:
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10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment
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Fully digital instrument cluster
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Ventilated front seats
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Up to 7 airbags
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Level-2 ADAS
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Strong Bharat NCAP safety rating
This electric SUV is expected to be a game-changer in the mass-market EV segment.
4. Tata Harrier & Safari Petrol Versions
Expected Launch: Mid-January 2026
Expected Price: ₹13 lakh onwards
Tata Motors has finally introduced petrol variants of the Harrier and Safari SUVs.
Key Updates:
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New 1.5-litre T-GDi turbo-petrol engine
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Fresh interior theme
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New exterior colour options
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Additional features and variants
However, the petrol versions will be offered only with a manual transmission, unlike the Sierra petrol.
5. Skoda Kushaq Facelift
Expected Launch: Mid-January 2026
Expected Price: ₹11 lakh onwards
The Skoda Kushaq facelift will receive its first major update since its 2021 launch.
Expected Improvements:
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All-LED lighting setup
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Redesigned dashboard
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New seat upholstery
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Possible additions:
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Panoramic sunroof
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360-degree camera
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ADAS features
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Engine options are likely to remain unchanged.
6. Nissan Gravite (Sub-4m MPV)
Expected Debut: Mid-January 2026
Expected Price: ₹6.20 lakh onwards
The Nissan Gravite, based on the Renault Triber platform, will be Nissan’s new entry-level MPV for India.
What to Expect:
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Unique Nissan-specific front grille
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New alloy wheel design
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Revised interior theme
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Shared features with Triber:
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8-inch touchscreen
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7-inch digital instrument cluster
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6 airbags (standard)
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TPMS
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The engine is expected to be the same as Triber, though a turbo-petrol option is highly anticipated.
7. 2026 Renault Duster (Third Generation)
Debut Date: January 26, 2026 (Republic Day)
Expected Price: ₹10 lakh onwards
The iconic Renault Duster is making a comeback in its third generation, and it will be showcased on Republic Day 2026.
Key Highlights:
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Connected LED tail lamps
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LED DRLs and roof rails
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Premium interior with:
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10.1-inch touchscreen
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Digital instrument cluster
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Wireless charger
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Ambient lighting
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Advanced safety including ADAS
Powertrain details for India are yet to be confirmed, but international models offer hybrid and LPG options.
📌 Final Thoughts
January 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting months for car launches in India. Whether you’re looking for a compact SUV, electric vehicle, family MPV, or a rugged SUV, these upcoming launches cover every major segment.
👉 Which of these upcoming cars are you most excited about?
Stay tuned for launch updates, price announcements, and detailed reviews.
