The midsize SUV segment remains one of the most fiercely competitive categories in the Indian car market. Popular models such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara have long dominated sales charts, but 2026 is shaping up to be a transformative year for this space. After welcoming new entrants like the Maruti Suzuki Victoris and Tata Sierra in 2025, the segment will see a wave of next-generation models, major facelifts and the return of a much-loved nameplate.
Here’s a detailed look at all the midsize SUVs scheduled to launch in India in 2026.
New-Generation Kia Seltos
Expected launch: January 2, 2026
Estimated price: Rs 13 lakh–23 lakh
Engine options: 1.5 petrol, 1.5 turbo-petrol, 1.5 diesel
Kia will kick off 2026 with the launch of the all-new Seltos. Built on a new K3 platform, the next-generation model is larger than before, offering improved cabin space and a stronger road presence. Design changes are extensive, with a sharper exterior and a thoroughly reworked interior.
Inside, the new Seltos features a high-tech layout with dual 12.3-inch screens, a separate touchscreen for climate controls, and a powered driver’s seat with memory function. Despite the platform and design overhaul, Kia will retain the existing petrol and diesel engine options. A hybrid powertrain is expected to join the line-up at a later stage.
Mahindra XUV 7XO
Expected launch: Q1 2026
Estimated price: Rs 14 lakh–25 lakh
Engine options: 2.0-litre turbo-petrol, 2.2-litre diesel
The Mahindra XUV 7XO is essentially a comprehensive facelift of the XUV700 and will be introduced early in 2026. Mahindra has already confirmed several premium upgrades, including a triple-screen dashboard layout — a first for an ICE-powered Mahindra SUV.
The feature list is expected to expand significantly with additions such as panoramic sunroof, customisable ambient lighting and an electric boss mode. Powertrain options will likely remain unchanged, with the diesel variant continuing to offer an all-wheel-drive option.
Renault Duster (Third Generation)
Expected launch: Q1 2026
Estimated price: Rs 11 lakh–19 lakh
Engine options: 1.3-litre turbo-petrol (expected)
Making a long-awaited return, the Renault Duster will re-enter the Indian market in its third-generation form. The India-spec model is expected to be positioned more upmarket than the global version, with premium interior materials and additional features.
While official engine details are yet to be confirmed, the Duster is expected to be powered by Renault’s 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine. Lower trims may get a smaller turbo-petrol unit, and a hybrid powertrain could be introduced later in the lifecycle.
Nissan Tekton
Expected launch: H1 2026
Estimated price: Rs 11 lakh–19 lakh
Engine options: 1.3-litre turbo-petrol (likely)
Nissan’s midsize SUV for India, the Tekton, will follow the Duster’s launch. Early teasers indicate that the SUV’s styling draws inspiration from the global Nissan Patrol, especially at the front and rear lighting elements.
Inside, the Tekton is expected to offer a dual-tone cabin with distinctive trim inserts. Given the alliance between Renault and Nissan, the Tekton is likely to share its platform and engines with the Duster, including the 1.3-litre turbo-petrol unit.
Skoda Kushaq Facelift
Expected launch: Q1 2026
Estimated price: Rs 11 lakh–19 lakh
Engine options: 1.0-litre turbo-petrol, 1.5-litre turbo-petrol
Skoda is preparing a mid-cycle update for the Kushaq, which has been on sale since 2022. The facelift is expected to bring noticeable design updates, including revised bumpers and full-width LED light bars at both ends.
The cabin will see meaningful upgrades, with features such as a panoramic sunroof, ADAS and a 360-degree camera expected to be introduced. Engine options will remain the same, although Skoda may introduce a new automatic gearbox for the 1.0-litre petrol variant.
Volkswagen Taigun Facelift
Expected launch: Q3 2026
Estimated price: Rs 11 lakh–19 lakh
Engine options: 1.0-litre turbo-petrol, 1.5-litre turbo-petrol
Volkswagen will follow Skoda with a facelifted version of the Taigun. The updates are expected to mirror those of the Kushaq, including refreshed exterior styling, a revised interior layout and added safety and convenience features such as ADAS and a panoramic sunroof.
The Taigun will continue with its existing petrol engines, with a possible update to the automatic transmission options.
Honda Elevate Facelift
Expected launch: H2 2026
Estimated price: Rs 11 lakh–17 lakh
Engine options: 1.5-litre petrol
Honda is also planning to refresh the Elevate to keep it competitive in the midsize SUV segment. The facelift is expected to focus on subtle exterior changes, a refreshed dashboard design and the addition of more modern features.
Mechanically, the Elevate will continue with Honda’s reliable 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine.
What to Expect from the Midsize SUV Segment in 2026
With new generations, premium feature additions and the return of established nameplates, 2026 will be a crucial year for midsize SUVs in India. Buyers can expect better interiors, advanced safety tech like ADAS, larger touchscreens and more refined powertrains across the board.
All prices mentioned are estimated ex-showroom figures for India.
Read More: