Last Updated on Dec 27, 2025 by Puneet S Bansal
January 2026 is expected to be a key month for the Indian automobile market, with manufacturers lining up electric vehicles, next-generation SUVs, and major facelifts. While exact launch dates will be confirmed closer to the period, several models are widely expected based on product pipelines, Auto Expo previews, and regulatory filings.
This guide covers upcoming car models in January 2026 in India, focusing on practicality, powertrain trends, and brand strategy.
Why January 2026 Will Be Important for New Car Launches
January is strategically important due to:
- High buyer interest post year-end
- Auto Expo spillover launches
- BS7 / stricter emission readiness
- Rapid EV adoption targets in India
Many manufacturers prefer early-year launches to gain a full calendar year of sales momentum.
Expected Upcoming Car Models in January 2026
| Expected Model (India) | Brand | Segment | Powertrain | Expected Launch Window | Key Buyer Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harrier EV | Tata Motors | Mid-size SUV | Electric (EV) | Jan–Mar 2026 | Long range, premium EV SUV |
| XUV.e8 | Mahindra & Mahindra | Mid-size SUV | Electric (EV) | Jan 2026 | Performance EV, ADAS |
| Electric SUV (eVX-based) | Maruti Suzuki | Compact / Mid SUV | Electric (EV) | Early 2026 | Affordable mass-market EV |
| Creta (Next-gen / Major Update) | Hyundai Motor India | Mid-size SUV | Petrol / Hybrid (expected) | Jan 2026 | Safety tech, brand trust |
| New Compact SUV | Kia India | Compact SUV | Petrol / Mild-hybrid | Early 2026 | Urban buyers, design |
| Compact SUV (Hybrid/EV) | Toyota Kirloskar Motor | Compact SUV | Strong Hybrid / EV | Jan–Mar 2026 | Fuel efficiency, reliability |
Upcoming Electric Cars (EVs)
Tata Motors Harrier EV
- Platform: Gen 2 EV architecture
- Expected Range: 500+ km
- Segment: Mid-size electric SUV
- Positioning: Premium EV alternative to ICE SUVs
Mahindra & Mahindra XUV.e8
- Based on INGLO EV platform
- Advanced ADAS & connected tech
- Focus on performance-oriented EV buyers
Maruti Suzuki Electric SUV (eVX-derived)
- First mass-market Maruti EV
- Emphasis on efficiency & affordability
- Global EV platform co-developed with Toyota
Upcoming SUVs & ICE Models
Hyundai Motor India Creta – Next Generation / Major Update
- Updated interiors & safety tech
- Hybrid powertrain under evaluation
- Continues dominance in mid-size SUV segment
Kia India New Compact SUV
- Positioned below Seltos
- Petrol-focused with mild-hybrid possibility
- Designed specifically for Indian conditions
Toyota Kirloskar Motor Compact SUV (Urban Cruiser EV/Hybrid)
- Strong hybrid focus
- High fuel efficiency
- Reliability-led positioning
Upcoming car models expected in India in January 2026 include electric SUVs like Tata Harrier EV and Mahindra XUV.e8, along with next-generation or updated ICE models such as Hyundai Creta and new compact SUVs from Maruti, Kia, and Toyota. The focus will be on EV range, hybrid efficiency, and advanced safety features.
What Buyers Should Know Before Waiting for 2026 Models
- Prices are likely to be higher due to advanced tech and regulations
- EV charging infrastructure will be better but still city-focused
- First-generation EVs may receive software updates post-launch
- Waiting makes sense if safety tech and electrification matter most
Must Read:
January 2026 is shaping up to be an important milestone for the Indian car market, with electric SUVs, hybrids, and next-generation models taking center stage. Buyers interested in future-ready technology, improved safety, and electrification may benefit from tracking these upcoming car models closely before making a purchase decision.
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