The new year always brings fresh excitement for car enthusiasts, and January 2026 promises to be an especially significant month for the Indian auto industry. A host of new models, including fully electric SUVs, next-generation vehicles and major facelifts, are scheduled to debut. While some cars will go on sale immediately, others will be unveiled in January ahead of launches later in the year. Together, these introductions are expected to give the Indian car market a strong and comprehensive refresh.
New-Generation Kia Seltos – January 2, 2026
January will kick off with the launch of the all-new Kia Seltos. Introduced on January 2, the next-generation model will be based on Kia’s new K3 platform, making it slightly larger and more refined than before. Design updates include a digital tiger-nose grille, full-LED lighting and a more premium road presence. Inside, the SUV will feature a 12.3-inch dual-screen setup, positioning it as one of the most tech-forward offerings in its segment. Powertrain options will include 1.5-litre petrol, 1.5-litre turbo-petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engines. Prices are expected to range between ₹11 lakh and ₹21 lakh.
Mahindra XUV700 Facelift (XUV 7XO) – January 5, 2026
Mahindra is set to introduce the facelifted XUV700, rebadged as the XUV 7XO, on January 5. The updated SUV will feature a significantly revised front design with new grilles and L-shaped LED DRLs. The most notable upgrade will be inside the cabin, where a triple-screen dashboard layout will be offered. Engine options are expected to remain unchanged, with the familiar 2.0-litre turbo-petrol and 2.2-litre diesel units continuing. The facelifted model is likely to be priced between ₹15 lakh and ₹26 lakh.
Skoda Kushaq Facelift – Mid-January 2026
Skoda is expected to roll out the facelifted Kushaq in mid-January. The update will bring sharper styling with revised front grilles, redesigned bumpers and updated LED taillights. Inside, the SUV is expected to gain premium additions such as a panoramic sunroof, a 360-degree camera and Level 2 ADAS. Pricing is likely to fall in the range of ₹11 lakh to ₹19 lakh.
Renault Duster – January 26, 2026 (Debut)
Renault’s popular Duster will make a strong comeback to India with its new-generation model debuting on January 26. Built on the CMF-B platform, the SUV will feature a more rugged and muscular design. Expected highlights include a 10.1-inch touchscreen, a premium interior and a comprehensive ADAS suite. While market launch is planned for March 2026, prices are expected to range between ₹11 lakh and ₹20 lakh.
Maruti Suzuki e Vitara – January 2026
Maruti Suzuki will enter the electric SUV space with the e Vitara, its first fully electric SUV, scheduled for launch in January 2026. The EV will be offered with 49kWh and 61kWh battery packs, claiming a driving range of up to 543 km. Features such as a dual-screen layout, a 360-degree camera and Level 2 ADAS underline its modern appeal. Expected pricing is between ₹15 lakh and ₹25 lakh.
Nissan Gravite – January 2026 (Debut)
Nissan will debut the Gravite, a sub-4 metre, seven-seater MPV, in January 2026. Based on the Renault Triber platform, it will offer a 2+3+2 seating configuration. Key features are expected to include an 8-inch touchscreen, six airbags and a 360-degree camera, making it a strong value proposition in the budget MPV segment. Prices could range from ₹6 lakh to ₹9 lakh.
Tata Punch Facelift – January 2026
The Tata Punch facelift is also expected to arrive in January. Updates will include new LED headlamps, a refreshed front design and a more premium interior. A larger 10.25-inch touchscreen and standard six airbags are likely to enhance its appeal further. The facelifted Punch is expected to be priced between ₹6 lakh and ₹11 lakh.
With such a diverse lineup of launches and debuts, January 2026 is shaping up to be a pivotal month that could redefine trends and intensify competition in the Indian automotive market.