January 2026: India’s SUV Market Gets a Tech & EV Makeover”

EVs, Facelifts, and Iconic Comebacks: January 2026 SUV Battle Begins.

January 2026 is shaping up to be a landmark month for the Indian automotive industry, with at least five highly anticipated SUVs set to make their mark, ranging from electric pioneers to iconic brand comebacks. The month kicks off with the all-new Kia Seltos, launching on January 2, which moves to the next-generation K3 platform, offering a longer, wider stance and adopting bold styling cues from the global Kia Telluride.

 Inside, the second-generation Seltos boasts a premium cabin, a massive panoramic display, and Level 2 ADAS for enhanced driving assistance, while retaining its tried-and-tested 1.5L petrol, 1.5L turbo-petrol, and 1.5L diesel engines. Just days later, on January 5, Mahindra unveils the XUV 7XO, the face lifted avatar of the XUV700, incorporating elements from the company’s “Born Electric” series such as the XEV 9e. This upgrade brings cutting-edge technology including a 540-degree camera, a new ADAS visualization system, and an “In-Car Theatre” mode, while continuing with the robust 2.0L turbo petrol and 2.2L diesel power trains that made the model a market favourite.

Mid-January is poised for a revolutionary shift as Maruti Suzuki launches its first fully electric SUV, the e Vitara, built on the dedicated 27PL EV platform. The e Vitara will offer 4WD capabilities (AllGrip-e), rare in this segment, and a rugged, futuristic design with a high-tech interior. Available with 49kWh and 61kWh battery packs, it promises a claimed range of over 500 km, signalling Maruti’s serious entry into India’s burgeoning EV market.

Later in the month, Renault brings back the iconic Duster on January 26 in its third-generation avatar, now built on the CMF-B platform with a muscular and aggressive design, and introducing hybrid technology to the brand’s Indian line-up for the first time. The Duster is expected to feature a 1.2L mild-hybrid and a 1.3L turbo-petrol engine, catering to enthusiasts looking for a blend of performance and efficiency.

Adding to the excitement, Tata Motors is launching the long-awaited petrol variants of its flagship SUVs, the Harrier and Safari, in early January. The 1.5L GDI Turbo Petrol engine is designed to make these SUVs more accessible to city buyers who prefer petrol, without compromising on refinement or performance. Alongside, the company is expected to debut the new “Fearless Ultra” trim, featuring refreshed interior colour schemes and updated features, further elevating the brand’s premium SUV portfolio.

Collectively, these launches are expected to reshape the SUV segment in India, offering consumers a combination of advanced technology, electrification, performance, and style, making January 2026 one of the most exciting months in recent automotive history.