The Indian passenger vehicle market commenced the year 2026 on an optimistic trajectory, driven by robust and consistent demand across various vehicle categories. This positive momentum is clearly reflected in the January sales rankings, which showcase a dynamic mix of established favorites and rapidly emerging models. The presence of well-known nameplates like the Tata Nexon, alongside newer contenders such as the Victoris, within the month's top 10 best-selling cars underscores a notable evolution in consumer preferences. This trend highlights sustained traction in popular segments, particularly compact SUVs and mainstream family vehicles, indicating a healthy and competitive automotive landscape.
Top 10 Best-Selling Cars and SUVs in January 2026
1. Tata Nexon Range (Including Nexon EV)
Securing the leading position, the Tata Nexon range, which encompasses both internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric vehicle (EV) variants, achieved combined sales of 23,365 units in January 2026. The Nexon ICE model offers drivers two engine choices: a 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine generating 120 horsepower (or 100 hp in its CNG configuration) with 170 Nm of torque, and a 1.5-litre turbo diesel engine delivering 113 hp and 260 Nm of torque. Transmission options include a manual gearbox or an Automated Manual Transmission (AMT).
For the electric variant, the Nexon EV provides two battery pack options: a 30 kWh unit and a larger 45 kWh unit. Both variants are powered by a front-mounted electric motor that produces 145 hp and 215 Nm of torque. In terms of range, the 38 kWh version boasts an ARAI-certified range of 325 kilometers, while the 45 kWh version offers an impressive 489 kilometers on a full charge, catering to diverse driving needs.
2. Maruti Suzuki Dzire
Claiming the second spot, the Maruti Suzuki Dzire recorded sales of 19,629 units. This sedan is equipped with a new Z-series, 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine that produces 82 hp and 112 Nm of torque. Buyers can choose between a 5-speed manual transmission or an AMT. The Dzire is available in four trim levels: LXi, VXi, ZXi, and ZXi+. The manual gearbox is standard across all variants, while the AMT and CNG options are specifically offered in the VXi and ZXi trims.
3. Tata Punch Facelift and Punch EV
Together, the newly launched Tata Punch facelift and the Punch EV captured the third position with combined sales of 19,257 units. The Punch facelift, starting at an ex-showroom price of Rs 5.59 lakh, features a redesigned exterior, an updated interior, additional features, and a new engine option. It offers two engine choices: a 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine with 88 PS and 115 Nm of torque, and a 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder turbo-petrol engine delivering 120 PS and 170 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission.
The Punch EV comes in two main variants: Standard and Long Range. The Standard variant is equipped with a 25 kWh battery providing a MIDC range of 315 km, while the Long Range variant features a 35 kWh battery offering an extended MIDC range of 421 km.
4. Hyundai Creta and Creta Electric
The Hyundai Creta and its electric counterpart secured the fourth position with combined sales of 17,921 units. The conventional Creta offers three engine options:
- A 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine generating 160 hp and 260 Nm of torque.
- A 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 115 PS and 144 Nm of torque.
- A 1.5-litre turbo diesel engine delivering 116 PS and 250 Nm of torque.
The Hyundai Creta Electric provides two battery choices: a standard 42 kWh battery with an ARAI-certified range of 390 km, and a long-range 51.4 kWh battery pack that claims a range of 473 km per charge.
5. Maruti Suzuki Ertiga MPV
The Maruti Suzuki Ertiga MPV ranked fifth with sales of 17,892 units. Powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine that outputs 103 hp and 137 Nm of peak torque, it is available with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Key features include a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, an Arkamys sound system, automatic climate control, and a versatile three-row, seven-seat layout. Safety is enhanced with six airbags, ABS with EBD, an electronic stability program, and seat belt reminders for all seats.
6. Maruti Suzuki Swift Hatchback
The Maruti Suzuki Swift hatchback followed closely in sixth place with sales of 17,806 units. It is powered by a 1.2-litre, three-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine that produces 82 hp and 112 Nm of torque. The new Swift boasts impressive fuel efficiency, with claimed figures of 24.8 kmpl for manual transmission variants and 25.75 kmpl for AMT variants.
7. Maruti Suzuki Brezza Subcompact SUV
In seventh position, the Maruti Suzuki Brezza subcompact SUV recorded sales of 17,486 units. It features a 1.5-litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine integrated with mild-hybrid technology, producing 103 PS and 137 Nm of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual gearbox or a 6-speed torque converter automatic. Additionally, the Brezza offers a CNG variant paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox.
8. Maruti Suzuki Baleno Subcompact SUV
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno subcompact SUV claimed the eighth spot with sales of 16,782 units. It is equipped with a 1.2-litre, 4-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine delivering 90 PS and 113 Nm of torque. Buyers can opt for either a 5-speed manual transmission or an AMT.
9. Mahindra Scorpio-N and Scorpio Classic
The Mahindra Scorpio-N and Scorpio Classic together secured the ninth position with combined sales of 15,542 units. The Scorpio-N offers two engine options: a 2.0-litre petrol engine producing 203 hp and 370 Nm (380 Nm with automatic) of torque, and a 2.2-litre mHawk turbo diesel engine delivering 175 hp and 400 Nm of torque. The Scorpio Classic is exclusively available with a 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine paired with a manual gearbox.
10. Maruti Suzuki Victoris
Rounding out the top 10, the Maruti Suzuki Victoris recorded sales of 15,240 units. This model is offered with two engine options: a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 103 hp and 139 Nm of torque, available with a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission, and includes an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) option and a CNG variant with an underbody tank. Alternatively, it features a 1.5-litre strong hybrid petrol engine paired with an e-CVT automatic transmission, emphasizing fuel efficiency and performance.
This comprehensive overview of January 2026 sales highlights the competitive spirit and innovation within India's automotive sector, with traditional powerhouses and new entrants alike capturing significant market share and driving consumer interest.
