January 2026 is shaping up to be a blockbuster month for the Indian auto industry. From long-awaited generational updates and brand-new petrol powertrains to the launch of India’s first Maruti Suzuki EV, nearly every major segment will see action. Domestic heavyweights like Tata Motors and Mahindra will lead the charge, while Kia, Renault, Nissan and Maruti Suzuki also have key unveilings lined up.
Here’s a fresh, SEO-friendly roundup of all the cars expected to launch or be revealed in India in January 2026, arranged by timeline.
Kia Seltos (Next Generation)
Expected launch: January 2, 2026
Estimated price: ₹11 lakh – ₹20 lakh (ex-showroom)
Kia will kick off 2026 with the official launch of the all-new Seltos, its best-selling midsize SUV. Built on the brand’s new K3 platform, the next-gen Seltos brings a sharper exterior design, a completely revamped cabin and meaningful improvements in ride comfort.
Engine options are expected to remain familiar, including naturally aspirated petrol, turbo-petrol and diesel units. Highlights are likely to include larger digital screens, refreshed interiors and a lie-flat driver’s seat on higher trims, strengthening its appeal against rivals like the Creta and Grand Vitara.
Mahindra XUV 7XO
Expected launch: January 5, 2026
Estimated price: ₹14 lakh – ₹25 lakh
Formerly known as the XUV700, the XUV 7XO marks a major repositioning for Mahindra’s flagship SUV. It retains the proven 2.0-litre turbo-petrol and 2.2-litre diesel engines, with AWD expected on select diesel variants.
What sets the XUV 7XO apart is its tech-forward cabin. Expect a triple-screen layout similar to Mahindra’s electric SUVs, a two-spoke steering wheel, premium Harman Kardon audio and a powered ‘boss mode’ for the front passenger seat. Exterior and interior redesigns should give it a clear identity over the outgoing model.
Tata Motors Harrier & Safari Petrol
Expected launch: Early January 2026
Estimated price:
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Harrier petrol: ₹13 lakh – ₹24.5 lakh
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Safari petrol: ₹14 lakh – ₹25.5 lakh
Tata Motors will finally give buyers a petrol alternative in its flagship SUVs with the introduction of the 1.5-litre Hyperion turbo-petrol engine. Producing 170hp and 280Nm, this four-cylinder unit will be offered with both manual and torque-converter automatic gearboxes.
Top-spec petrol variants will stand out with a massive 14.5-inch QLED touchscreen, a digital IRVM with dashcam functionality, camera washers and a 10-speaker JBL sound system—making them the most feature-rich Harrier and Safari trims yet.
Tata Motors Punch Facelift
Expected reveal: Mid-January 2026
Estimated price: ₹6 lakh – ₹9.5 lakh
The Punch facelift will bring subtle but welcome updates to Tata’s popular micro-SUV. Inspired by the Punch EV, the refreshed model should feature revised styling, updated interiors and added convenience features.
Mechanically, it will continue with the 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine paired with either a 5-speed manual or AMT gearbox, focusing on value-driven urban buyers.
Nissan Gravite MPV
Expected reveal: Mid-January 2026
Estimated price: ₹6 lakh – ₹9 lakh
Nissan is set to unveil the Gravite, a compact MPV based on the CMF-A+ platform. Positioned as a practical family mover, it is expected to share its powertrain with the Renault Triber—a 1.0-litre petrol engine with manual and AMT options.
The Gravite will likely focus on space efficiency, affordability and low running costs, helping Nissan strengthen its presence in the entry-level MPV segment.
Renault Duster (Next Generation)
Expected reveal: January 26, 2026
Estimated price: ₹10 lakh – ₹20 lakh
The iconic Duster is making a comeback after nearly four years. The India-spec next-generation model will be revealed on Republic Day and is expected to feature a distinct design compared to the global version.
Higher trims may get a powerful 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine producing up to 156hp, while lower variants could use an uprated version of Renault’s 1.0-litre turbo-petrol motor. Competitive pricing will be key to reclaiming lost ground in the midsize SUV segment.
Maruti Suzuki e Vitara (First EV)
Expected launch: Late January 2026
Estimated price: ₹18 lakh – ₹25 lakh
The most anticipated launch of the month is undoubtedly the Maruti Suzuki e Vitara, the brand’s first all-electric vehicle for India. It will be offered with two battery options: a 49kWh pack with a 144hp motor and a larger 61kWh pack delivering 174hp.
The long-range variant is expected to offer an ARAI-certified range of over 540km, positioning the e Vitara as a strong contender in the midsize electric SUV space.
January 2026: A Defining Month for Car Buyers
From petrol-powered flagships and long-awaited facelifts to a landmark EV launch, January 2026 promises something for every kind of buyer. Whether you’re shopping for an affordable city car, a feature-packed SUV or a future-ready electric vehicle, the first month of the year is set to deliver big.
All prices mentioned are ex-showroom, India.
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