2026 New Car Launches in India: Mahindra XUV 7XO, Maruti e-Vitara, and the Return of Renault Duster
The Indian automotive landscape is witnessing a seismic shift as we enter 2026, with a calendar packed with high-voltage electric vehicles (EVs), rugged icons making a comeback, and feature-loaded 7-seater SUVs.
Whether you are looking for a tech-heavy family cruiser or a sustainable electric commuter, the upcoming car launches in India 2026 offer something for every segment. Leading the charge are industry giants like Mahindra, Tata, and Maruti Suzuki, each preparing to redefine their portfolios with “generation-next” technology.
Mahindra XUV 7XO: The King of Mid-Size SUVs Returns
The most talked-about launch of the year is undoubtedly the Mahindra XUV 7XO. Essentially a comprehensive facelift of the popular XUV700, the 7XO is set for its official price announcement today, January 5, 2026.
Key Features of the Mahindra XUV 7XO:
- Triple-Screen Dashboard: A futuristic cockpit inspired by the XEV 9S.
- Level 2 ADAS: Enhanced safety with autonomous emergency braking and adaptive cruise control.
- Harman Kardon Audio: A premium sound experience for the top-tier AX9L variant.
- Price Range: Expected to start around ₹16.13 Lakh, competing directly with the Tata Safari and MG Hector.
Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara: A New Era for India’s Largest Carmaker
Maruti Suzuki is finally entering the mass-market EV space with the Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara. Set to launch by mid-January 2026, this electric SUV is built on a dedicated global EV platform.
The e-Vitara will offer two battery pack options, 49kWh and 61kWh, with the latter boasting a range of up to 543km on a single charge. With a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating already under its belt, the e-Vitara aims to be the safest Maruti vehicle yet, with an estimated price starting at ₹17 Lakh.
Tata Motors: Maintaining Momentum with Punch and Sierra
Tata Motors continues its aggressive strategy with two major highlights for 2026: the Tata Punch facelift and the legendary Tata Sierra EV.
2026 Tata Punch Facelift
Revealing on January 13, 2026, the Punch facelift borrows design cues from its EV sibling, featuring vertically stacked LED headlamps and a more premium cabin. For the first time, the ICE-powered Punch may include a turbo-petrol engine option to rival the Hyundai Exter and Citroen C3.
Tata Sierra EV
Expected by late January 2026, the Sierra EV is a nostalgia-heavy premium electric SUV. It will feature a unique “lounge” seating arrangement and a range exceeding 500km, positioning it as Tata’s flagship electric offering.
The Return of the Icon: New Renault Duster 2026
After a long hiatus, the Renault Duster is set for a grand reveal on Republic Day, January 26, 2026. Built on the advanced CMF-B platform, the new Duster looks more muscular than ever. It is expected to feature a 1.3L turbo-petrol engine and possibly a strong-hybrid variant, aiming to reclaim its territory from the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos.
Upcoming 7-Seater SUVs and MPVs in 2026
For large families, the year brings several versatile options:
- Nissan Gravite: A sub-4-metre 7-seater MPV based on the Triber, expected to debut on January 14, 2026, with a price tag between ₹6-9 Lakh.
- Toyota Urban Cruiser EV: Toyota’s version of the e-Vitara, expected in February 2026.
- Hyundai Palisade: Rumours suggest a mid-2026 arrival for this flagship 3-row luxury SUV.
Summary of Major New Car Launches in 2026
| Model | Segment | Expected Launch | Expected Price (Ex-Showroom) |
| Mahindra XUV 7XO | Mid-size SUV | Jan 5, 2026 | ₹16.13 – ₹28.65 Lakh |
| Tata Punch Facelift | Micro SUV | Jan 13, 2026 | ₹6.12 – ₹10.83 Lakh |
| Maruti e-Vitara | Electric SUV | Jan 15, 2026 | ₹17.00 – ₹22.50 Lakh |
| Nissan Gravite | Compact MPV | Jan 15, 2026 | ₹6.57 – ₹9.77 Lakh |
| Renault Duster | Compact SUV | Jan 26, 2026 | ₹12.00 – ₹20.00 Lakh |
As the competition intensifies, 2026 stands to be the most innovative year for Indian car buyers. Stay tuned to PuneNow for live updates, drive reviews, and the latest news from the world of Indian motoring.
