Four new midsize sedans from Hyundai, Skoda, Volkswagen and Honda are set to launch in India in 2026. Here’s what to expect on design, features and updates.
SUVs may be dominating the spotlight right now, but the midsize sedan segment is quietly preparing for a strong comeback in 2026. Carmakers such as Hyundai, Skoda, Volkswagen and Honda are gearing up to launch refreshed and updated sedans aimed at buyers who still value comfort, driving stability and efficiency. With prices expected to range between Rs. 10 lakh and Rs. 20 lakh, these upcoming sedans promise updated styling, improved technology and enhanced safety features. As buyer preferences slowly diversify beyond SUVs, the arrival of four new midsize sedans next year could reshape the segment. Here’s a closer look at what’s coming.
4 New Midsize Sedans Set to Launch in 2026 – Hyundai, Skoda, Volkswagen & Honda Prepare Big Updates
The Indian midsize car segment is currently dominated by SUVs, with models like the all-new Tata Sierra, next-generation Kia Seltos, upcoming Renault Duster and the first-ever Maruti e Vitara grabbing most of the attention. Buyers today clearly prefer the high ground clearance, road presence and practicality offered by SUVs, which has pushed sedans slightly into the background.
However, this trend is expected to balance out in 2026. Several carmakers are preparing to shift focus back to sedans by introducing four new or heavily updated midsize sedans. From Volkswagen and Skoda to Hyundai and Honda, every major brand present in this segment is lining up an important launch next year. These upcoming sedans are expected to be priced between Rs. 10 lakh and Rs. 20 lakh (ex-showroom), keeping them accessible to a wide range of buyers.
Game-Changing Arrivals! 4 New Midsize Sedans Set to Launch in 2026
Hyundai Verna Facelift (2026)
Hyundai will be the first to kick off the sedan refresh cycle in 2026 with the launch of the updated Hyundai Verna. The facelifted Verna is expected to arrive in the early part of the second quarter of 2026. This model will be an updated version of the current-generation Verna that debuted in March 2023.
Spy images have already revealed that Hyundai is working on noticeable exterior changes. The front end is expected to get a redesigned bumper, updated split headlamps and a revised grille design, giving the sedan a sharper and more sporty appearance. The design direction is likely to be inspired by Hyundai’s global sedan lineup, making the Verna look more premium and aggressive.
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At the rear, updates are expected to include revised connected tail lamps, a redesigned bumper and refreshed alloy wheel designs. The 16-inch alloy wheels are likely to remain but may get a new pattern to differentiate the facelift from the current model.
Inside the cabin, the changes are expected to be more significant. The Verna facelift is likely to feature larger 12.3-inch digital displays for both the instrument cluster and infotainment system. These screens are expected to run Hyundai’s latest software interface, offering improved usability and smoother performance. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto are expected to be standard across variants, eliminating the need for wired adapters.
Mechanically, the Verna is expected to continue with the same petrol engine options and transmission choices as the current model. Hyundai is likely to focus on design, features and technology rather than mechanical changes.
Skoda Slavia Facelift
In the second half of 2026, Skoda is expected to introduce a facelifted version of the Skoda Slavia. The Slavia has been known for its solid build quality, comfortable ride and strong safety credentials, and the upcoming update is expected to further improve its appeal.
The Slavia facelift is likely to receive cosmetic updates including restyled front and rear bumpers, revised headlamps and tail lamps, a tweaked grille design and new alloy wheel options. These changes are expected to give the sedan a fresher and more modern look without altering its overall proportions.
Inside the cabin, Skoda is expected to introduce software improvements to the existing infotainment system. The 10-inch touchscreen may receive new features and improved responsiveness. Safety is also likely to be a focus area, with reports suggesting the possible introduction of Level 2 advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), depending on variant and pricing.
The Slavia is expected to retain its current engine options and turbo-petrol setup. However, the existing 6-speed automatic transmission may be replaced with a new 8-speed automatic unit, which is expected to be manufactured locally. This change could improve driving comfort and efficiency.
Volkswagen Virtus Facelift
Volkswagen is expected to follow a similar strategy with the Volkswagen Virtus, which will also receive a facelift shortly after the Slavia update. Since both sedans share the same platform, the Virtus facelift is likely to feature many similar changes.
Exterior updates are expected to include revised bumpers, updated headlamp and tail lamp designs, a refreshed grille and new alloy wheel designs. These changes will help keep the Virtus visually fresh in a segment that is slowly seeing renewed interest.
Inside the cabin, Volkswagen is expected to focus on technology upgrades. Software enhancements for the infotainment system, improved connectivity features and a better-quality reverse parking camera are likely. Like the Slavia, the Virtus may also receive select ADAS features to improve safety.
Engine options are expected to remain unchanged, with Volkswagen continuing to offer its familiar turbo-petrol lineup. The current automatic transmission setup may be updated, with the 6-speed unit likely to be replaced by an 8-speed automatic gearbox.
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Honda City Second Facelift
Honda is also planning to update its popular midsize sedan, the Honda City, in the second half of 2026. This will be the second facelift for the fifth-generation City, which has been on sale for several years.
Since Honda is expected to introduce an all-new generation around 2028, the upcoming facelift is likely to be a mild update rather than a major overhaul. Expected changes include small revisions to the front grille and bumpers, new alloy wheel designs and the introduction of fresh exterior colour options.
Interior changes are expected to be minimal, focusing mainly on feature enhancements and minor trim updates. Honda is likely to retain the current engine and transmission options, continuing to prioritise comfort, reliability and fuel efficiency.
What This Means for the Midsize Sedan Segment
While SUVs continue to dominate the Indian car market, the planned launches and updates clearly indicate that carmakers still believe in the midsize sedan segment. Sedans offer better ride comfort, improved handling and higher fuel efficiency compared to similarly priced SUVs, which continues to attract a specific set of buyers.
With refreshed styling, improved technology, better safety features and competitive pricing, the upcoming midsize sedans launching in 2026 could help revive interest in this body style. For buyers who prefer a low-slung, comfortable and efficient car for city and highway use, the next year is expected to bring several attractive options.
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