Five Highly Anticipated SUVs Coming to the Indian Market
The Indian automotive market is a hotbed of activity, especially in the SUV segment, which continues to dominate consumer preferences. With manufacturers launching new models and updating existing ones, the competition is fiercer than ever. Here is a detailed look at five of the most anticipated SUVs poised to hit Indian roads in the near future.
1. Mahindra XUV700 Facelift
The Mahindra XUV700 has been a runaway success since its launch, setting new benchmarks in its segment. Mahindra is working on a facelift to keep it fresh and competitive with some key updates.
Design Updates
The exterior will get subtle revisions with a redesigned front grille, new headlamp clusters, and tweaked LED taillights. New alloy wheel designs are also expected to give it a refreshed look.
Interior and Tech Upgrades
Major changes are coming to the cabin, rumored to adopt a triple-screen layout. This will likely include a digital instrument cluster, a central infotainment screen, and a third screen for the front passenger, possibly powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295 processor. Other additions may include a new two-spoke steering wheel and an updated Level-2 ADAS suite.
Powertrain and Launch
The mechanicals are expected to remain unchanged, with the existing 2.0-liter turbo-petrol and 2.2-liter diesel engines. The updated Mahindra XUV700 is expected to be launched in early 2026.
2. New Kia Seltos
The Kia Seltos has been a segment leader, and a major overhaul is coming to fend off growing competition. This update is more than a cosmetic refresh, bringing significant technological upgrades.
Design Changes
The facelift will feature revised styling with a new front grille, updated headlamps, and Kia’s signature “Star Map” LED connected taillights. It will have a more modern and aggressive stance.
Interior and Feature Highlights
The cabin is expected to get a significant makeover. The highlight will be a new dual-pane panoramic sunroof, a Level-2 ADAS suite, an electric parking brake, and a premium BOSE sound system.
Powertrain and Launch
A significant change will be the addition of a hybrid powertrain option, making it a direct rival to the Grand Vitara and Hyryder. The updated Seltos is expected to be launched in India soon.
3. New Renault Duster
The Duster nameplate holds a legendary status, and its return is highly anticipated. The new-generation Duster will be a complete departure from the outgoing model in design and technology.
Platform and Design
The new Duster will be built on the modern CMF-B+ architecture. It will feature a rugged and muscular design language with a new front fascia and bold, upright stance.
Powertrain Options
It is expected to be launched initially with a petrol engine. The CMF-B+ platform is hybrid-ready, and a hybrid powertrain is likely to be introduced later. An all-wheel-drive (AWD) option is also a strong possibility.
Launch Timeline
The new Renault Duster is expected to arrive in India by late 2025 or early 2026.
4. Nissan’s Mid-Size SUV
As part of the Renault-Nissan alliance, Nissan is set to launch a new mid-size SUV that will share its platform with the new Renault Duster but will have a distinct identity.
Platform and Design
This new SUV will also be based on the CMF-B+ platform. It will have its own unique modern styling, likely with a focus on sleek lines and LED lighting, and could be positioned as a successor to the Terrano.
Powertrain and Features
It is expected to get the same powertrains as the new Duster, including the future hybrid option. The SUV is anticipated to be packed with modern features to compete in the mid-size segment.
Launch Timeline
The new Nissan mid-size SUV is expected to be launched in India in 2026.
5. Tata Sierra
Tata Motors has been teasing the return of the legendary Sierra nameplate. The production version of the SUV is expected to stay close to the stunning concept model.
Platform and Design
The new Tata Sierra will feature a modern, futuristic design while retaining the classic silhouette. It will be based on Tata’s advanced Acti.ev platform, which underpins the Harrier EV.
Powertrain Options (EV and ICE)
The Sierra is expected to be launched as an all-electric SUV first, with two battery pack options. The company has also confirmed that ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) versions with petrol and diesel options will be launched subsequently.
Interior and Launch Timeline
The cabin is likely to be a tech-fest with a floating triple-screen setup and a panoramic sunroof. The all-electric Tata Sierra is expected to make its debut around the Diwali season in late 2025.
