January 2026 will see 7 major new car launches in India from Kia, Maruti Suzuki, Mahindra, Tata, Renault, Skoda and Nissan. Full details here.
7 New Car Launches Scheduled for January 2026: Kia to Mahindra
The Indian car market is set for an exciting start to 2026, with as many as seven new car launches lined up for January. From all-new generations and electric vehicles to much-awaited facelifts, leading manufacturers like Kia, Maruti Suzuki, Mahindra, Tata Motors, Renault, Skoda and Nissan are preparing to roll out fresh products across multiple segments.
These upcoming launches will cater to a wide range of buyers, including SUV enthusiasts, EV adopters, family car buyers and value-focused customers. Here’s a detailed look at the 7 new cars scheduled to launch in January 2026.
1. New-Generation Kia Seltos
Kia has already taken the wraps off the all-new second-generation Seltos, and its price announcement is scheduled for January 2, 2026. Deliveries are expected to begin by mid-January, making it one of the first launches of the year.
The new-gen Seltos is based on Kia’s new K3 platform and features a completely fresh design, both inside and out. Dimensionally, the SUV has grown significantly:
- 95 mm longer
- 30 mm wider
- 80 mm longer wheelbase
Bookings for the new Seltos are currently open for a token amount of Rs. 25,000.
Engine Options:
- 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol
- 1.5-litre turbo petrol (tGDi)
- 1.5-litre turbo diesel
With its updated design, improved space and familiar powertrain options, the new Seltos is expected to strengthen Kia’s position in the competitive mid-size SUV segment.
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2. Maruti Suzuki e Vitara
One of the most anticipated launches of 2026, the Maruti Suzuki e Vitara, marks the brand’s first fully electric car for India. While the EV has already been revealed, its price announcement is expected in January 2026.
The e Vitara will be offered in three variants:
- Delta
- Zeta
- Alpha
Battery & Range:
- 49 kWh battery pack
- 61 kWh battery pack
- Up to 543 km ARAI-claimed range
Built on the Heartect-e platform, the India-spec e Vitara will be offered with a front-wheel-drive layout only. The larger battery pack delivers 172 bhp and 193 Nm of torque, making it one of the most powerful EVs in its class.
With Maruti’s vast service network and focus on affordability, the e Vitara is expected to play a key role in expanding EV adoption in India.
3. New-Generation Renault Duster
Renault has officially confirmed the return of the Duster nameplate to India. The all-new Renault Duster will be unveiled on January 26, 2026, though its market launch date is yet to be confirmed.
Based on the CMF-B platform, the new Duster will be positioned in the mid-size SUV segment. It is expected to be powered by:
- 1.3-litre turbo petrol engine
- 154 bhp and 250 Nm of torque
Renault is also evaluating the possibility of introducing a localised hybrid powertrain at a later stage.
In terms of design, the India-spec Duster will closely resemble the international model, with some market-specific changes to suit local preferences and conditions.
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4. Skoda Kushaq Facelift
The Skoda Kushaq is set to receive its first mid-life facelift in January 2026. The update is expected to bring subtle design tweaks and new features, helping the SUV stay competitive.
Expected Updates:
- Revised front grille and bumper
- New alloy wheel designs
- Updated rear styling
Interior & Features:
- Minor layout changes
- Panoramic sunroof
- 360-degree parking camera
- Level 2 ADAS
Engine Options (Unchanged):
- 1.0-litre TSI petrol
- 1.5-litre TSI petrol
- Manual and automatic gearbox options
The facelift will focus more on features and technology, while retaining the same fun-to-drive character.
5. Mahindra XUV7XO (XUV700 Facelift)
Mahindra will kick off 2026 with the launch of the XUV7XO, the mid-life facelift of the popular XUV700, on January 5, 2026.
The XUV7XO draws design inspiration from the electric XEV 9S, featuring a refreshed exterior and upgraded cabin.
Key Highlights:
- New exterior styling
- Triple-screen dashboard layout
- Massage front seats
- Rear ventilated seats (6-seater variant)
- 16-speaker premium audio system
- Multi-colour ambient lighting
Engine Options:
- 2.0-litre mStallion petrol
- 2.2-litre mHawk diesel
Both engines will continue with manual and automatic gearbox options, ensuring familiarity for existing buyers.
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6. Nissan Gravite MPV
Nissan is set to enter the compact MPV segment with the all-new Nissan Gravite, which will debut in January 2026. Prices, however, are expected to be announced later in March 2026.
Based on the Renault Triber, the Gravite will sit on the CMF-A+ platform. While the silhouette remains similar, Nissan is expected to introduce:
- A unique front-end design
- Revised interior layout
- Nissan-specific styling elements
Engine Details:
- 1.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol
- 76 hp and 95 Nm of torque
The Gravite will be positioned as a practical 7-seater MPV, targeting budget-conscious family buyers.
7. Tata Punch Facelift
Tata Motors will round off the month with the launch of the Tata Punch Facelift in January 2026. The updated micro-SUV has already been spotted testing multiple times.
Exterior Updates:
- New front-end styling inspired by Punch EV
- Revised lighting elements
Interior Upgrades:
- New steering wheel
- Updated dashboard layout
- 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Fully digital instrument cluster
Engine Options:
- 1.2-litre petrol engine
- CNG option to continue
The Punch facelift aims to improve features and cabin experience, while retaining its strong safety credentials.
Final Thoughts
With seven major launches in January 2026, the Indian car market is gearing up for a blockbuster start to the year. Whether it’s new-generation SUVs, electric vehicles, practical MPVs or feature-rich facelifts, there’s something for every type of buyer.
As prices and bookings are announced, January 2026 is expected to set the tone for an action-packed year in the Indian automotive industry.