The Indian automotive industry is poised for an electrifying start to 2026, with a packed calendar of new model launches and unveilings scheduled for January. Major players including Kia, Mahindra, Maruti Suzuki, and Renault are ready to roll out a diverse mix of all-new vehicles, significant facelifts, and crucial electric models, offering fresh choices for buyers and plenty to discuss for enthusiasts.
Kia Kicks Off The Year With The New-Gen Seltos
The launch frenzy begins on January 2, 2026, with the second-generation Kia Seltos. Bookings for this highly anticipated SUV open from December 11 with an amount of Rs 25,000. The new Seltos sports a completely redesigned exterior inspired by Kia's global SUV lineup, featuring a dominant grille, squared-off LED headlamps, and a distinctive vertical LED light signature. The side profile gets flush door handles and a pronounced shoulder line, while the rear boasts an inverted L-shaped LED tail lamp design.
Inside, the cabin is dominated by a panoramic digital setup comprising twin 12.3-inch screens for the infotainment and instrument cluster, plus a 5.0-inch climate control display. It is loaded with features like ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, a Bose audio system, Level 2 ADAS, and connected car tech. Powering the new Seltos on the fresh K3 platform will be the familiar engine options: a 1.5-litre NA petrol, a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol, and a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel.
Mahindra & Maruti Suzuki's Key Offerings
Following closely, Mahindra will unveil the XUV 7XO, the facelifted version of the XUV 700, on January 5, 2026. This model adopts the brand's new naming strategy and gets a comprehensive design update. Expect a new grille, C-shaped LED headlamps, and signature 7-shaped DRLs. The interior is likely to inherit the triple-screen dashboard from the XEV 9S, and it will be offered in multiple seating configurations. Mechanically, it should continue with the trusted 2.0-litre turbo-petrol and 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engines.
Maruti Suzuki is set to make a significant entry into the electric SUV space with the e-Vitara, launching in January 2026. Based on the new Heartect-e platform, its design takes cues from the eVX concept. It features a modern cabin with floating dual screens and a floating centre console. Safety is paramount with seven airbags and Level 2 ADAS. It will offer two battery options: a 49kWh and a 61kWh unit using BYD-sourced LFP blade cells, with the larger pack claiming a range of up to 500 km.
Renault's Comeback & MG's Update
In a much-awaited return, Renault will debut the all-new Duster on January 26, 2026 (Republic Day). The SUV, inspired by the Bigster concept, features a bold new design with Y-shaped lighting signatures and a rugged profile. The interior gets a 10.1-inch touchscreen and a 7.0-inch digital cluster, along with ADAS features. While global variants offer multiple powertrains including a hybrid, the India-spec model is expected with a turbo-petrol engine.
Additionally, JSW MG Motor India is expected to announce prices for the diesel variants of the updated 2026 Hector in January 2026. The facelifted SUV brings a new honeycomb grille, a fresh Urban Tan interior theme, and a 14-inch touchscreen with i-Swipe gesture controls. It continues with the 1.5-litre turbo-petrol and 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine options.
A Blockbuster Month for Car Buyers
January 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most action-packed months in recent memory for the Indian car market. From the evolutionary update of the popular Kia Seltos and Mahindra XUV 700 to the revolutionary all-electric Maruti e-Vitara and the nostalgic return of the Renault Duster, manufacturers are covering all bases. This intense activity signals fierce competition, especially in the high-volume SUV segment, and underscores the industry's rapid shift towards electrification and advanced technology, ultimately giving Indian consumers an unprecedented array of choices to begin the new year.
