October 2026 is shaping up to be one of the busiest months for new car launches in India, with everything from updated mass-market SUVs and sedans to flagship electric vehicles and ultra-luxury cars. The month will also bring the India debut of the third-generation Audi Q3 and the arrival of Volvo’s flagship EX90 and ES90 EVs.
Among the most closely watched launches are the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class facelift, Skoda Slavia facelift, Honda Elevate facelift, Volvo EX90, Volvo ES90, Toyota Glanza facelift and new Audi Q3. Hyundai’s new Bayon will also make its global debut in October, with its India launch expected around the festive season.
Key Highlights
- Mercedes-Maybach S-Class facelift is scheduled for October 5, with an expected price above Rs 3 crore.
- Skoda Slavia facelift and Honda Elevate facelift are due on October 6, targeting the premium sedan and midsize SUV segments respectively.
- Volvo EX90 and ES90 will arrive in India on October 12 as the brand’s flagship electric models.
- Toyota Glanza facelift is expected on October 14, with updated styling and equipment.
- New-generation Audi Q3 is confirmed for an October 16 India launch and will be locally assembled.
- Hyundai Bayon is scheduled for a global reveal on October 12, while its India launch is expected during the festive season.
Mercedes-Maybach S-Class Facelift: October 5
Mercedes-Benz will open October’s launch calendar with the updated Maybach S-Class on October 5. The facelift brings styling revisions, upgraded rear-seat technology and additional digital features. The model is expected to remain firmly in the ultra-luxury segment, with an estimated price of around Rs 3.10 crore to Rs 3.20 crore, ex-showroom.
The refreshed sedan is expected to retain its V8-powered character, while Mercedes-Maybach has also introduced updated digital and comfort technology in the new-generation model globally. For Indian buyers, rear-seat comfort, customisation and chauffeur-focused equipment will remain the main reasons to consider it.
Skoda Slavia Facelift: October 6
The Skoda Slavia facelift is one of the more significant mainstream launches of the month. Skoda has already revealed the updated sedan and confirmed several changes, including redesigned LED lighting, new alloy wheels, revised bumpers and a refreshed cabin.
One of the biggest mechanical changes is the introduction of an eight-speed torque-converter automatic with the 1.0-litre TSI. The 1.5-litre TSI continues with its seven-speed DSG automatic. The facelift also adds a segment-first rear-seat massage function, a 360-degree camera and an updated infotainment system with AI Companion integration.
The Slavia will continue with Classic, Classic+, Signature, Sportline and Prestige variants, while the Monte Carlo trim will also be available from launch.
Honda Elevate Facelift: October 6
Honda is expected to introduce the Elevate facelift on October 6. The update is likely to focus on styling and equipment rather than major mechanical changes. Reports indicate revised lighting, grille and bumper designs, along with potential additions such as ventilated seats and a factory-fitted 360-degree camera.
The current 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine produces 121hp and 145Nm and is paired with a six-speed manual or CVT. There is currently no confirmed hybrid powertrain for the facelift, so buyers should not assume that the City e:HEV’s hybrid system will be added.
The Elevate will continue to face the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder and Volkswagen Taigun.
Volvo EX90 and ES90: October 12
Volvo will make one of the biggest electric-car statements of October by launching the EX90 SUV and ES90 sedan together on October 12. Volvo India has confirmed the date, with both models positioned as its flagship EVs.
The EX90 is a large three-row electric SUV. Volvo’s India specification page lists a 106kWh battery, dual-motor AWD, 456hp and 670Nm, with a claimed range of up to 625km. It can accelerate from 0 to 100kmph in 5.5 seconds and supports 800V charging architecture.
The ES90 is an electric luxury sedan based on the same SPA2 architecture. Its arrival also marks Volvo India’s return to the luxury sedan segment after the S90 was discontinued locally.
| Model | October 2026 date | Powertrain | Expected positioning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mercedes-Maybach S-Class facelift | Oct 5 | Petrol | Ultra-luxury sedan |
| Skoda Slavia facelift | Oct 6 | Turbo-petrol | Premium midsize sedan |
| Honda Elevate facelift | Oct 6 | Petrol | Midsize SUV |
| Volvo EX90 | Oct 12 | Electric AWD | Flagship electric SUV |
| Volvo ES90 | Oct 12 | Electric | Luxury electric sedan |
| Toyota Glanza facelift | Oct 14 | Petrol | Premium hatchback |
| Audi Q3 | Oct 16 | 2.0-litre turbo-petrol | Luxury compact SUV |
Prices for several October launches remain unconfirmed as of September 30, 2026.
Toyota Glanza Facelift: October 14
The Toyota Glanza facelift is expected to debut on October 14. Toyota has not publicly released the complete specification sheet yet, so details such as final equipment, pricing and powertrain changes should be treated cautiously.
Current industry information points towards evolutionary styling changes and equipment upgrades rather than a completely new model. The existing Glanza’s 1.2-litre petrol architecture is expected to remain central to the range.
The facelift will continue to compete with cars such as the Maruti Suzuki Baleno, Hyundai Grand i10 Nios and Tata Tiago.
New Audi Q3: October 16
The third-generation Audi Q3 is scheduled to launch in India on October 16. Audi has already started production of the new SUV at the Skoda Auto Volkswagen India facility in Maharashtra, making it a locally assembled model.
The India-spec Q3 is expected to use a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic and Quattro all-wheel drive. International specifications indicate around 204hp, although Audi’s final India specification and pricing should be confirmed at launch.
The new Q3 will continue to compete with the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA.
Hyundai Bayon: October Global Debut, India Launch Expected
Hyundai has confirmed the Bayon name for its upcoming Indian SUV and opened bookings at Rs 11,000. The company describes it as an intelligent utility vehicle and says it will use a petrol powertrain with manual and IVT transmission options.
The Bayon is scheduled to be revealed at the 2026 Paris Motor Show on October 12. Its India launch is expected during the festive season, although Hyundai had not announced a final India launch date as of September 30.
The new SUV is expected to sit between the Venue and Creta in Hyundai’s India portfolio. Its confirmed technology highlights include an in-built generative AI voice assistant, while Hyundai says the platform has been engineered for five-star Indian safety standards.
Pros and Cons of Waiting for October Launches
Pros
- Several refreshed models arrive before the festive buying season.
- Buyers get access to newer features and updated styling.
- The October line-up covers hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, luxury cars and EVs.
- New-generation models such as the Q3 bring newer platforms and technology.
Cons
- Launch-month pricing may carry a premium over outgoing models.
- Some specifications and variant details remain unconfirmed.
- Waiting for a facelift can mean missing discounts on outgoing stock.
- Premium EVs such as the EX90 and ES90 will have significantly higher purchase costs.
FAQs
Which cars are launching in India in October 2026?
Major expected launches include the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class facelift, Skoda Slavia facelift, Honda Elevate facelift, Volvo EX90, Volvo ES90, Toyota Glanza facelift and new Audi Q3.
Which is the most affordable upcoming car in October 2026?
The Toyota Glanza facelift and Skoda Slavia facelift are among the more affordable major launches, although final prices for the updated models have not been officially announced.
When will the new Audi Q3 launch in India?
The third-generation Audi Q3 is scheduled to launch in India on October 16, 2026. It will be locally assembled.
Is the Volvo EX90 coming to India in October 2026?
Yes. Volvo has confirmed October 12, 2026, for the India launch of the EX90 and ES90.
Will the Honda Elevate facelift get a hybrid engine?
A hybrid Elevate has not been officially confirmed. Current reports indicate that the facelift is expected to continue with the existing 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine and manual/CVT options.
When will the Hyundai Bayon launch in India?
Hyundai has opened bookings and confirmed the Bayon for India, but the company had not announced a final India launch date by September 30, 2026. The model is expected during the festive season.
Conclusion
October 2026 will give Indian car buyers an unusually broad choice, from the relatively accessible Glanza and Slavia to premium SUVs such as the Q3 and flagship EVs like the EX90. For buyers considering a midsize SUV, the Elevate facelift and Bayon are particularly relevant, while sedan buyers have the updated Slavia and ES90 to consider.
If you are planning a purchase during the festive season, it makes sense to wait for the official prices and variant details of the October launches before finalising a booking. Buyers also looking for discounts should compare those prices with offers on outgoing versions, particularly where the mechanical package remains largely unchanged.
Read More: