New SUV, EVs and Sedans Coming Soon: India’s new-car market is heading into an exciting second half of 2026, with several new SUVs, electric cars, hybrids and sedans scheduled to arrive around the festive season. From the Kia Sorento and Tata Safari EV to the MG Starlight 560-based SUV and updated Skoda Slavia, buyers will soon have more choices across multiple segments.
The launch calendar is particularly important for SUV and EV buyers. Kia is preparing to introduce the Sorento on September 4, while Tata is targeting the 2026 festive season for the Safari EV. Meanwhile, the Skoda Slavia facelift is scheduled to launch on August 18.
Here is a detailed look at the most important upcoming cars in India in 2026, including their expected launch timing, powertrains, features and positioning.
🚙 New SUVs Coming Soon in India
SUVs continue to dominate India’s new-car market, and several important models are expected to strengthen the segment in the coming months.
🔥 MG Starlight 560-Based SUV
MG Motor India is preparing a new three-row SUV based on the Wuling Starlight 560. Automotive reports suggest that the India-spec model could be offered with electric and plug-in hybrid powertrains, although final specifications for India are still awaited.
The international Starlight 560 EV uses a 69.2kWh battery and has a claimed 530km CLTC range. However, those figures should not be treated as confirmed India-spec specifications until MG announces them.
The three-row configuration could make the upcoming MG particularly interesting for large families looking for an electrified SUV.
Expected highlights:
- ⚡ EV and PHEV possibilities
- 👨👩👧👦 Three-row seating
- 🔋 Large battery option in international specification
- 🛞 SUV-focused design
- 🤖 ADAS and connected-car technology expected
The launch is expected in August 2026, with some reports pointing to an August 28 event.
🏆 Kia Sorento
The Kia Sorento is one of the most anticipated premium SUV launches of 2026. Kia India has confirmed September 4, 2026 as the launch date.
The three-row SUV will become Kia India’s flagship ICE SUV and will also mark the company’s entry into India’s hybrid SUV market.
The India-bound Sorento is expected to offer both a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol strong-hybrid and a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel powertrain. The global hybrid version produces 238PS and 380Nm, while the diesel produces 202PS and 441Nm, although India-specific specifications may differ.
Expected highlights:
- 🚙 Three-row seating
- ⚡ Strong-hybrid powertrain
- 🛢️ Diesel option
- 🧠 Advanced driver-assistance technology
- 🌞 Premium cabin and panoramic sunroof
- 💰 Expected positioning around the premium SUV segment
The Sorento is expected to compete with models such as the Toyota Fortuner, Skoda Kodiaq, Volkswagen Tayron and other premium three-row SUVs.
🛻 Mahindra Scorpio Lifestyler
Mahindra has also unveiled the Scorpio Lifestyler, a new lifestyle pickup based on the Scorpio-N platform.
The pickup is aimed at buyers looking for a combination of everyday usability, off-road ability and premium features. It will compete with established lifestyle pickups such as the Toyota Hilux and Isuzu D-Max V-Cross.
Although the vehicle has already been unveiled, its Indian market arrival is expected by April 2027, so it is better viewed as part of Mahindra’s next wave of launches rather than a 2026 festive-season product.
⚡ Upcoming Electric Cars in India 2026
India’s EV market is expanding rapidly, and the second half of 2026 could bring several significant electric models.
🔋 Tata Safari EV
The Tata Safari EV is arguably one of the most important upcoming electric SUVs for Indian families.
It will become Tata’s first three-row electric SUV and is planned for launch around the 2026 festive season. The Safari EV will use the same broad EV architecture and powertrain strategy as the Harrier EV.
The SUV is expected to use 65kWh and 75kWh battery options, with both rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations expected on selected variants.
Because the Safari EV is larger and heavier than the Harrier EV, its final range could be slightly lower.
Expected highlights:
- ⚡ All-electric three-row SUV
- 🔋 65kWh and 75kWh battery options expected
- 🛞 RWD and AWD options expected
- 📱 Advanced connected features
- 🅿️ Auto-park assistance
- 🛡️ Level 2 ADAS
- 📷 Advanced surround-view camera technology
The expected price is around ₹22.5 lakh–₹30 lakh ex-showroom, although Tata’s final pricing will be announced closer to launch.
⚡ Mahindra BE 6 SPORTEQ
Mahindra has already launched the BE 6 SPORTEQ, so it should no longer be described as an upcoming model.
The electric SUV was launched on August 15, 2026 and features a new three-screen cockpit, additional technology and Mahindra’s TEQ_Talk conversational AI system. Deliveries are scheduled to begin on August 26.
The SPORTEQ also introduces features aimed at tech-focused buyers, including personalization options, connected technology and a digital car key.
🔌 Tata Tigor EV Facelift
The Tata Tigor EV facelift is another electric model worth watching.
The updated Tigor has been spotted through patent images, with expected changes including revised styling and additional technology. Reports indicate that the EV version will receive EV-specific updates.
The Tigor EV facelift is currently expected in late 2026, with an estimated price range of around ₹7.5 lakh–₹11 lakh.
Final battery, range and equipment specifications are yet to be officially confirmed.
🔋 Maruti Suzuki YMC Electric MPV
Maruti Suzuki is also developing a new three-row electric MPV, internally known as the YMC.
The model has been spotted testing and is expected to share its underpinnings with the Maruti Suzuki e Vitara. Reports suggest it could use 49kWh and 61kWh battery packs, although final specifications remain unconfirmed.
The YMC could become Maruti Suzuki’s first three-row electric vehicle and is expected to reach dealerships sometime in 2027 after a possible debut toward the end of 2026.
Its combination of three-row practicality and electric power could make it an important rival to upcoming electric MPVs and family EVs.
🚘 New Sedans Coming Soon in India
While SUVs and EVs are receiving most of the attention, the sedan segment is also getting important updates.
✨ 2026 Skoda Slavia Facelift
The 2026 Skoda Slavia facelift is scheduled to launch in India on August 18, 2026.
The facelift brings styling changes, additional features and an important mechanical update. Expected exterior changes include revised LED lighting, a redesigned grille, updated bumpers and new alloy wheels.
Inside, the Slavia is expected to receive updated upholstery and trim, while a larger digital driver’s display and additional comfort features could be introduced.
One of the biggest mechanical changes is expected to be the 1.0-litre TSI’s new eight-speed automatic transmission, replacing the existing six-speed torque-converter automatic. The 1.5-litre TSI is expected to continue with its seven-speed DSG.
The updated Slavia will continue to compete with the Volkswagen Virtus, Hyundai Verna and Honda City.
🚘 Tata Tigor Facelift
The petrol-powered Tata Tigor facelift is also expected to receive a substantial update.
Patent images indicate a revised exterior influenced by the newer Tiago design language. Expected equipment includes a 10.25-inch infotainment system, 360-degree camera and blind-spot monitoring, although final specifications will depend on Tata’s official announcement.
The Tigor EV is expected to receive corresponding EV-specific changes.
📅 Upcoming Car Launches in India: 2026–2027
| Model | Body Style | Powertrain | Expected/Confirmed Timing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skoda Slavia Facelift | Sedan | Petrol | August 18, 2026 |
| MG Starlight 560-based SUV | SUV | EV/PHEV expected | August 2026 |
| Kia Sorento | 3-row SUV | Hybrid/Diesel | September 4, 2026 |
| Tata Safari EV | 3-row SUV | Electric | Festive season 2026 |
| Tata Tigor EV Facelift | Sedan | Electric | Late 2026 |
| Maruti Suzuki YMC | 3-row MPV | Electric | Late 2026/2027 |
| Mahindra Scorpio Lifestyler | Pickup | ICE | By April 2027 |
Launch dates and specifications marked as expected or tentative can change.
🔥 Which Upcoming Cars Are Worth Waiting For?
For SUV buyers, the Kia Sorento and Tata Safari EV stand out because both target the three-row family market but use different powertrain strategies.
For EV buyers, the Safari EV could be particularly important because it will give Tata Motors a three-row electric SUV positioned above the Harrier EV.
Meanwhile, the MG Starlight 560-based SUV could bring another three-row electrified option to the market, while the Maruti YMC has the potential to make electric family MPVs more accessible.
Sedan buyers also have reason to wait, with the Skoda Slavia facelift bringing fresh styling, new features and a potentially significant transmission upgrade.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Which new cars are coming to India in 2026?
Several new and updated cars are expected in India during 2026, including the Kia Sorento, Tata Safari EV, MG Starlight 560-based SUV, Skoda Slavia facelift and Tata Tigor facelift.
Which SUVs are launching in India in 2026?
Major upcoming SUV launches include the Kia Sorento, Tata Safari EV and MG’s new Starlight 560-based SUV. The Safari EV is expected around the festive season, while the Sorento is confirmed for September 4, 2026.
Which electric SUVs are coming to India in 2026?
The Tata Safari EV is one of the most important upcoming electric SUVs. MG is also expected to introduce a new Starlight 560-based SUV with an EV option.
When will the Kia Sorento launch in India?
Kia has confirmed the Kia Sorento India launch for September 4, 2026. It will be Kia India’s flagship three-row ICE SUV and its first hybrid model for the Indian market.
When will the Tata Safari EV launch in India?
The Tata Safari EV is expected to launch during the 2026 festive season. Tata has positioned it as its first three-row electric SUV.
When is the new Skoda Slavia launching?
The 2026 Skoda Slavia facelift is scheduled for launch on August 18, 2026.
Is the Maruti YMC an electric MPV?
Yes. The YMC is Maruti Suzuki’s upcoming three-row electric MPV, according to automotive reports. It is expected to share its underpinnings and some battery technology with the e Vitara.
Which upcoming car should family buyers wait for?
Buyers wanting a premium three-row SUV could consider waiting for the Kia Sorento, while families looking for an electric SUV should watch the Tata Safari EV. Buyers seeking a more affordable electric family vehicle may also want to follow developments around the Maruti YMC.
🏁 Final Verdict
The 2026 Indian car market is moving into an important new phase. SUVs remain the centre of attention, but manufacturers are increasingly combining practicality with electric and hybrid powertrains.
The Kia Sorento will bring a new premium hybrid option, the Tata Safari EV will expand the three-row electric SUV segment, and MG’s upcoming Starlight 560-based SUV could add another electrified family SUV. Meanwhile, the Skoda Slavia facelift and Tata Tigor updates show that sedans are still receiving meaningful investment.
For buyers planning to purchase a new car before or around the festive season, 2026 could be one of the most interesting years in India’s recent automobile market. 🚗⚡