Seven new cars set for launch this festive season, from SUVs to EVs and CNG

With the festive season approaching, activity in the Indian car market has picked up. Buyers can expect more choice than before, with new SUVs, electric cars, facelifted models and CNG options. Here are the seven cars set to be talked about most in the coming weeks.

First is the Hyundai Bayon, which could launch in India around the festive season. The SUV may slot into Hyundai's lineup between the Venue and the Creta. A recent design teaser showed sharp LED lighting, distinctively styled alloy wheels and an eye-catching rear design. The Indian model is said to get a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, with a CNG option expected later.

Second is the Tata Safari EV, the company's three-row electric SUV. It will be built on the same Acti.EV+ architecture as the Harrier EV. It is expected to come with two battery options of 65 kWh and 75 kWh, along with an AWD version. A spacious three-row cabin, a fresh design suited to an EV, and more technology could be its highlights.

Third is the Toyota Glanza facelift, reported to be unveiled on October 14, 2026. It may get updates similar to those seen on the new Maruti Baleno. It is expected to come with a 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine along with improved styling and new features.

Fourth is the Mahindra Thar facelift. The facelifted version of the three-door Mahindra Thar is reported to launch on September 22. Teasers have shown changes to the front design, with some updates expected in the cabin and equipment as well. The body-on-frame platform and off-road capability are expected to remain as before.

Fifth is the Honda Elevate facelift, which is set to get its first facelift update. The SUV could be unveiled in early October, with new lights, bumpers and alloy wheels, along with interior changes. It may get features such as ventilated front seats and a 360-degree camera, while the 1.5-litre petrol engine with manual and CVT options is expected to continue as before.

Sixth is the Skoda Slavia facelift, which has already been unveiled and is expected to begin deliveries during the festive season. It gets new lighting, alloy wheels, a 360-degree camera, a rear seat massage function and an updated digital display. The 1.0-litre TSI engine gets a new 8-speed automatic gearbox, while the 1.5-litre TSI comes with a 7-speed DSG.

Seventh is the Renault Triber Turbo. A turbo-petrol engine option for the Renault Triber is expected by the end of September. It may use the 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine from the Kiger, with power expected to be around 100 hp. A factory-fitted CNG option is also under consideration, which could improve performance when driving with a full passenger load.