India’s SUV market is about to get a lot more crowded. Seven fresh models are lined up to launch this year, and they span everything from affordable micro crossovers to hybrid three-row family haulers. Some are facelifts. Others are all-new platforms. A couple bring electrification into the mix for the first time.
Here’s what’s actually coming and what it means if you’re in the market.
Kia Sorento Hybrid Joins the Premium Pack
Kia is expected to bring the global Sorento to India sometime in 2026, and it’ll arrive as a hybrid. The powertrain pairs a 1.6-litre turbo four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a six-speed automatic. Combined output sits at 227 horsepower.
This isn’t a plug-in. It’s a self-charging hybrid aimed at buyers who want better fuel economy without charging anxiety. Kia hasn’t confirmed pricing yet, but expect it to slot above the Seltos and compete with the likes of Jeep Meridian and MG Gloster in the premium three-row space.
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Mahindra XUV 7XO Gets a Rebrand and Tech Boost
The XUV 700 is getting a makeover and a new name. The XUV 7XO will borrow heavily from the XEV 9e’s design language, both inside and out. That means a more upmarket cabin with triple screens, a 540-degree camera system, and ADAS with visual feedback on the display.
Mahindra is clearly positioning this as a tech-forward alternative to the Safari and Hector Plus. The existing powertrain options will likely carry over, but the focus here is on features and premium feel.
Also read: India’s January 2026 Car Lineup: 6 New Models Land Soon
Tata Punch Facelift Takes Cues from the EV
The Punch has been a strong seller for Tata, and the facelift will lean into the design language of the Punch EV. Expect updates to the front fascia, lighting, and interior trim. The cabin will likely get bits from the latest Nexon, including a revised infotainment setup and better materials.
Mechanically, don’t expect changes. The 1.2-litre petrol engine and AMT combo should stay as is. This is a styling refresh to keep the model competitive until a bigger update arrives.
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Harrier and Safari Go Petrol
Tata Motors has already introduced petrol versions of the Harrier and Safari. Both use a new 1.5-litre TGDI engine making 170 PS and 280 Nm. Pricing will be announced soon, along with new trim levels and added features.
This is a big move for buyers who’ve been waiting for a petrol option in this segment. The diesel still makes sense for highway cruising, but the petrol gives you a smoother, quieter city drive and widens the appeal.
Also read: Hyundai Launches Taxi-Spec i10 and Aura at Rs. 5.99 Lakh
Renault Duster Returns on January 26
The new-gen Duster launches on Republic Day, and it’s built on the CMF-B platform with India-specific tweaks. Two turbo petrol engines are expected at launch. The SUV will pack Level 2 ADAS, a large touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, and a panoramic sunroof.
Renault’s betting big on this one. The Duster name still carries weight in India, and if the pricing is sharp, it could reclaim some of the ground Renault lost in recent years.
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Maruti Suzuki e Vitara Brings EV Finally
Maruti’s first EV for India is ready. Production has started at the Gujarat plant, and prices should drop soon. You’ll get a choice between a 49 kWh or 61 kWh battery pack. The e Vitara rides on the new Heartect-e platform, which will also underpin a Toyota sibling and eventually a midsize electric MPV.
This is Maruti’s entry ticket into the EV race. Expect aggressive pricing and a strong service network to back it up.
Skoda Kushaq Gets a Mid-Cycle Refresh
The Kushaq facelift is just weeks away. It’ll get updated styling and new interior features, but the 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre turbo petrol engines remain unchanged. Manual and automatic options continue as before.
This is a safe, sensible update to keep the Kushaq fresh until the next generation arrives.
Which One’s the Smartest Buy?
| Model | Type | Key Highlight | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maruti e Vitara | Electric | Strong service network, aggressive pricing | First-time EV buyers |
| Kia Sorento Hybrid | Hybrid | 227 hp, no charging needed | Premium family hauler |
| Renault Duster | Petrol | CMF-B platform, ADAS, sharp pricing expected | Value hunters |
| Mahindra XUV 7XO | Petrol/Diesel | Tech-loaded, 540-degree camera | Feature enthusiasts |
| Tata Harrier Petrol | Petrol | 170 PS TGDI engine | City-focused buyers |
If you want volume and resale value, the e Vitara is the safe bet. Maruti’s reach and aggressive pricing will make it hard to ignore. But if you want a tech-loaded family SUV with hybrid efficiency, the Sorento Hybrid could be the sleeper hit, assuming Kia prices it right.
The new Duster is the wildcard. If Renault nails the price-to-feature ratio, it could surprise everyone.
Monojit Paul is the founder and editor of techautohub.com. He covers India’s automotive industry, focusing on new launches, cars, bikes, and market trends.
