The Hype: Over 89 cars launching in India through 2026 | The Reality: These 8 are the ones actually worth your attention
TL;DR The Hottest Cars Coming Soon
IN ORDER OF EXCITEMENT:
- Renault Duster – Finally confirmed for January 26, 2026 | ₹10-20 lakh
- Maruti Suzuki eVitara – Already here! December 2025 launch | ₹20-25 lakh
- Kia Seltos 2026 – Global debut in India, hybrid expected | ₹12-20 lakh
- Mahindra XUV 7XO – Facelift with triple screen setup | ₹15-26 lakh
- Tata Sierra – Retro-modern compact SUV (ICE + EV) | ₹12.5-18 lakh
- Mahindra XEV 9S – Three-row luxury EV | ₹21-30 lakh
- Skoda Superb – Premium sedan, no diesel sadly | ₹35-45 lakh
- Volkswagen Tera – Budget compact SUV (Killac sibling) | ₹9-12 lakh
Bottom Line: 2025-2026 is massive for Indian car launches. These 8 represent the best across segments, whether you want electric, hybrid, diesel (RIP), or pure petrol performance.
Introduction: Finally, Cars Worth Getting Excited About
Look, I’m almost tired of saying “coming soon” for some of these cars. But now we actually have dates. Actual launch timelines. Real information.
This isn’t a generic “Top 10 Best Cars of 2026” list. These are cars I’m genuinely excited about. Cars you should be excited about. And I’m going in order of excitement, so buckle up.
Let’s dive into the hottest upcoming cars in India for 2025-2026.
1. Renault Duster Finally Confirmed for January 26, 2026
I’m almost tired of saying “it’s coming soon.” But finally, we know for sure. The Renault Duster launches on January 26, 2026 (Republic Day).
What We Know:
- Built on CMF-B platform (same as global Dacia Duster)
- Confirmed no diesel (sad news for diesel fans)
- Expected 1.3L turbo petrol engine
- Possible AWD option like the old Duster
- Estimated price: ₹10-20 lakh
The Review: We were the first to drive the Dacia version in Europe last year. Check out that review on the channel if you haven’t seen it. The India-spec model will be plusher, hopefully more exciting, and adapted for our market.
The Disappointment: No diesel. I’m still hoping Renault surprises us with a hybrid at some point. The 1.3L turbo petrol is fine, but a mild-hybrid or full-hybrid option would make this a genuine segment leader.
Who Should Buy It: Anyone who loved the original Duster and wants that rugged, affordable, practical SUV back. This is the return of a legend.
Excitement Level: 10/10 (finally!)
2. Maruti Suzuki eVitara Already Here, Launches December 2025
That’s right. We don’t even have to wait till 2026 for this one. The Maruti Suzuki eVitara is already here and launches in December 2025.
What We Know:
- 500+ km claimed range (MIDC cycle)
- Two battery options: 49 kWh and 61 kWh
- Power: 142 hp (49 kWh) / 172 hp (61 kWh)
- Built on dedicated EV platform
- Top speed: 150 km/h
- Estimated price: ₹20-25 lakh
The Review: I just drove this car in the UK. The review is live on the channel. Go watch it. This is a genuinely good EV that doesn’t compromise on practicality or range.
The Strategy: Maruti is expecting big volume on this. This isn’t a niche EV play. They’re going after MG Windsor kind of numbers. The eVitara will be sold alongside the Toyota Urban Cruiser EV (badge-engineered sibling).
Who Should Buy It: First-time EV buyers who want proven reliability from Maruti. Families who need practical range without breaking the bank.
Excitement Level: 9/10 (EV mass-market game-changer)
3. Kia Seltos 2026 Global Debut in India, Hybrid Coming
The Kia Seltos is already a hot car. The 2026 facelift (or potentially next-gen) is getting a global debut in India.
What We Know:
- Global debut in India (first market to get it)
- 12.3-inch dual-screen setup (like top-spec Venue)
- Existing engines likely carry over: 1.5L petrol, 1.5L diesel, 1.5L turbo petrol
- Hybrid powertrain expected (first Hyundai-Kia hybrid in India)
- Estimated price: ₹12-20 lakh
The Hype: Just like the first-gen Seltos, this one is expected to charge up the compact SUV segment. It might even overtake the Creta and become the best-seller again.
The Hybrid: This could be the first time Hyundai-Kia brings a strong hybrid to India. If it’s priced right, it’ll dominate. Think Honda City Hybrid levels of efficiency with Seltos practicality.
Who Should Buy It: Compact SUV buyers who want the latest tech, modern styling, and potentially best-in-class fuel economy with the hybrid.
Excitement Level: 9/10 (hybrid potential is huge)
4. Mahindra XUV 7XO Big Facelift, Triple Screen Setup
The Mahindra XUV 7XO (yes, 7XO not 700) is the big facelift that’s been long overdue.
What We Know:
- Name change: XUV 700 becomes XUV 7XO (following 3XO naming)
- Triple-screen layout (driver, center, passenger)
- Adrenox replaced by Maya (new AI assistant)
- Same dimensions, same engines: 2.0L turbo petrol, 2.2L diesel
- New materials, colors, styling tweaks
- Three-row version continues
- Estimated price: ₹15-26 lakh
The Interior: This is where the 7XO will shine. Mahindra has learned a lot from the EVs (XEV 9E, XEV 6E). Expect the latest tech, premium materials, and a genuinely impressive cabin.
Who Should Buy It: Families who want a three-row SUV with the latest tech and don’t want to spend Fortuner money. Existing XUV 700 owners looking to upgrade.
Excitement Level: 8/10 (much-needed update)
5. Tata Sierra Retro-Modern Compact SUV (ICE + EV)
The Tata Sierra is making a comeback. And it’s coming in both ICE and EV versions.
What We Know:
- Launches November 2025 (ICE) / Q1 2026 (EV)
- Built on Acti.ev platform (EV version)
- ICE engines: Expected to share with Harrier/Safari
- Retro-inspired design with modern tech
- 12.3-inch screens, Arcade.ev software (EV)
- Estimated price: ₹12.5-18 lakh (ICE) / ₹20-25 lakh (EV)
The Nostalgia Factor: Tata is leaning hard on the Sierra’s retro appeal. But here’s the question: How many of you actually had one growing up? How many even remember it?
For most buyers, this is essentially an all-new product. The nostalgia alone won’t carry it.
The Reality: This needs to be a genuinely good compact SUV on its own merits. Styling, features, driving dynamics. If it delivers, the Sierra name is a bonus. If it doesn’t, nostalgia won’t save it.
Who Should Buy It: Buyers who want something different. Tata loyalists. People who appreciate bold design. EV buyers who want Indian-made electric SUVs.
Excitement Level: 8/10 (design is polarizing but interesting)
6. Mahindra XEV 9S Three-Row Luxury EV
The Mahindra XEV 9S is the three-row version of the XEV 9E. Already teased, already expected.
What We Know:
- Three-row luxury EV (longer than XEV 9E)
- Same Inglo EV platform
- Expected 80+ kWh battery, 500+ km range
- More luxurious, back-seat focused
- Triple-screen setup like XEV 9E
- Mahindra will add “some little trump card” (their words)
- Estimated price: ₹21-30 lakh
The Strategy: This is aimed at luxury buyers who want three rows and electric. Think of it as Mahindra’s answer to the Mercedes EQB or upcoming three-row EVs.
Who Should Buy It: Families who want electric, luxury, and three-row seating. Buyers who considered the XEV 9E but needed that extra row.
Excitement Level: 7/10 (solid, but expected)
7. Skoda Superb Premium Sedan, No Diesel
The Skoda Superb was already shown at the Auto Expo. The new generation’s been out in Europe for a while, so no surprises here.
What We Know:
- Launches December 2025
- 2.0L turbo petrol + 7-speed DSG
- No diesel (party line wins again, sadly)
- Large touchscreens, premium materials
- Possible massage seats (saw them at the Expo)
- Only sedan in its class (rivals are disappearing)
- Estimated price: ₹35-45 lakh
The Sedan Problem: The sedan segment has slowed down. But the Superb will literally be the only one in its class. Camry is horribly overpriced. Everything else is gone.
Who Should Buy It: Sedan purists who want space, luxury, and sophistication. Business owners who prefer sedans over SUVs. Enthusiasts who appreciate good handling.
Excitement Level: 7/10 (solid, but niche)
8. Volkswagen Tera (Wild Card) Budget Compact SUV
This is the wild card. The Volkswagen Tera is coming, but we don’t even know if that’s the final name for India.
What We Know:
- Based on Skoda Killac (which has been very successful)
- Positioned below the Taigun (younger sibling)
- Similar features to Killac
- More aggressive pricing than existing VW lineup
- Expected engines: 1.0L TSI, 1.5L TSI
- Estimated price: ₹9-12 lakh
The Strategy: Volkswagen needs a volume player. The Taigun is excellent but expensive. The Tera will go after Venue/Nexon/Brezza territory with premium German engineering.
Who Should Buy It: Budget-conscious buyers who want German build quality. First-time car buyers stepping up from hatchbacks.
Excitement Level: 7/10 (we need more details first)
Quick Comparison Table
| Car | Launch | Price (₹ Lakh) | Type | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renault Duster | Jan 26, 2026 | 10-20 | Compact SUV | Legendary return, AWD |
| Maruti eVitara | Dec 2025 | 20-25 | Electric SUV | 500+ km range |
| Kia Seltos | Early 2026 | 12-20 | Compact SUV | Hybrid expected |
| Mahindra XUV 7XO | Q1 2026 | 15-26 | 3-row SUV | Triple screens |
| Tata Sierra | Nov 2025 | 12.5-18 | Compact SUV | Retro design, ICE+EV |
| Mahindra XEV 9S | Q2 2026 | 21-30 | 3-row EV | Luxury electric |
| Skoda Superb | Dec 2025 | 35-45 | Sedan | Only in its class |
| VW Tera | Mid 2026 | 9-12 | Compact SUV | Budget German |
The Missing Piece Hybrids Are Finally Coming
One major trend across these launches: hybrids are coming to India.
Confirmed/Expected Hybrids:
- Kia Seltos – First Hyundai-Kia strong hybrid
- Renault Duster – Hoping for a surprise hybrid option
- Maruti Escudo – Coming later in 2026 with hybrid
Hyundai-Kia has finally decided to bring strong hybrids to India. The Seltos will likely be first, followed by the Creta. This changes everything for fuel economy without the range anxiety of EVs.
What About Diesel?
RIP Diesel. Sad news, but it’s the reality.
- Renault Duster: No diesel
- Skoda Superb: No diesel
- Most new launches: Petrol, hybrid, or electric only
Diesel is disappearing fast. If you want diesel, buy now while options still exist. Or embrace hybrid/electric.
Final Thoughts: Which Cars Are Actually Worth Waiting For?
Must-Wait:
- Renault Duster – If you loved the original
- Maruti eVitara – If you’re ready for EV
- Kia Seltos Hybrid – If fuel economy matters
Worth Considering:
- Tata Sierra – If you want bold design
- Mahindra XUV 7XO – If you need three rows
- Skoda Superb – If you’re a sedan purist
Wait for More Info:
- VW Tera – Need pricing and specs
- Mahindra XEV 9S – Need that “trump card” reveal
My Rating System:
- 10/10: Drop everything, pre-book now
- 8-9/10: Definitely test drive when it launches
- 7/10: Worth considering if it fits your needs
2025-2026 is massive for Indian car buyers. More choice, better tech, and genuine competition across every segment.
The top upcoming cars in India 2025 are Renault Duster (Jan 26, 2026), Maruti Suzuki eVitara (Dec 2025), Kia Seltos (early 2026), Tata Sierra (Nov 2025), and Mahindra XUV 7XO (Q1 2026).
So there you have it. The hottest cars coming to India in 2025-2026. Which one are you most excited about? Which one are you waiting for? Drop your thoughts in the comments below and let me know if there’s a car I missed that should be on this list.
