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Upcoming midsize SUVs in India in 2026

2026 will mark the comeback of the Duster nameplate in India, while some other models will get a mid-cycle refresh.
4 min read22 Dec '25
Dipan SurDipan Sur
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Upcoming mid size SUVs in India in 2026
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The midsize SUV space has always been hotly contested in India, with the Hyundai Creta, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Kia Seltos among established models. While this segment saw the launch of the Maruti Suzuki Victoris and Tata Sierra in 2025, the upcoming year will bring multiple facelifts, a new-generation model and the comeback of a popular nameplate. Here’s a list of all midsize SUVs set to launch in India in 2026:

New Kia Seltos

Launch: January 2; Estimated price: Rs 13 lakh-23 lakh; Engine: 1.5P, 1.5T, 1.5D

Upcoming midsize SUVs in India in 2026

Kia has revealed all the details of the next-generation Seltos, except for its prices, which will be unveiled on January 2, 2026. The next-generation model is built on a new K3 platform that has increased its length, width and wheelbase by a considerable margin. The new Seltos also has a completely revamped exterior and interior design with new features, including dual 12.3-inch displays, a 5-inch AC control display and a powered driver’s seat with memory function. However, it continues with the same engine options: a 115hp 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol, a 160hp 1.5-litre turbo-petrol and a 116hp 1.5-litre diesel. The line-up is also expected to get a hybrid engine in 2027.

Mahindra XUV 7XO

Launch: Q1 2026; Estimated price: Rs 14 lakh-25 lakh; Engine: 2.0T, 2.2D

Upcoming midsize SUVs in India in 2026

The Mahindra XUV 7XO, which is essentially the facelifted version of the flagship XUV700, is the next midsize SUV lined up for a launch. Mahindra will debut it on January 5 and is expected to reveal its prices soon after. While several details are awaited, the carmaker has revealed that the 7XO will have a triple-screen setup like the XEV 9e and XEV 9S, becoming the first ICE-powered Mahindra to get such a feature. It will also get an electric boss mode, a panoramic sunroof and customisable ambient lighting. The 7XO is expected to continue with a 2-litre turbo-petrol engine and a 2.2-litre diesel engine, with the latter likely to retain an AWD option. Pre-bookings for the 7XO are open for Rs 21,000.

Renault Duster

Launch: Q1 2026; Estimated price: 11 lakh-19 lakh; Engine: 1.3T

Upcoming midsize SUVs in India in 2026

After being discontinued in early 2022, the Renault Duster will make a comeback in India on January 26 in its third-generation avatar. However, sources indicate that the India-spec model will feature a more upmarket design and upholstery. While the upcoming model’s powertrain details are currently unknown, we expect Renault to offer it with a 156hp 1.3-litre ‘HR13’ turbo-petrol engine. Lower variants are also likely to get the Kiger’s 1-litre turbo-petrol mill with a slight bump in power. Notably, Renault is working on a hybrid engine, which may be added to the line-up later in the year.

Nissan Tekton

Launch: H1 2026; Estimated price: Rs 11 lakh-19 lakh; Engine: 1.3T (likely)

Upcoming midsize SUVs in India in 2026

After the Duster’s India debut, Nissan is expected to reveal its rival, the Tekton, in the first quarter of 2026, with a launch likely soon after. Teasers for the Tekton suggest that a lot of design elements will be inspired by the manufacturer’s flagship Patrol SUV. These include the front grille, the C-shaped LED daytime running lamps (DRLs) and a similar design for the connected LED tail-lights. As for the interior, a teaser has showcased a dual-tone cabin theme with a gloss-black trim on the centre of the dashboard, along with a copper-coloured insert. Engine options are unknown at the moment, but as seen with other Renault-Nissan cars, the Tekton is expected to borrow its powertrain options from its Renault counterpart, the Duster.

Skoda Kushaq facelift

Launch: Q1 2026; Estimated price: Rs 11 lakh-19 lakh; Engine: 1.0T, 1.5T

Upcoming midsize SUVs in India in 2026

The Skoda Kushaq has been on sale in India since 2022, and for some time now, the Czech manufacturer has been testing this midsize SUV’s updated version, which is expected to break cover in the first quarter of 2026. Spy shots suggest that the Kushaq facelift will feature a redesigned fascia with full-width LED light bars and a redesigned bumper, and the rear is also expected to get a similar treatment. While more information on the cabin design is awaited, it has been confirmed through spy shots that the update will render the Kushaq with a panoramic sunroof, ADAS and a 360-degree camera. Engine options are likely to be unchanged, but sources say that the 6-speed torque converter available with the 1-litre engine could be discontinued in favour of a new 8-speed automatic unit.

Volkswagen Taigun facelift

Launch: Q3 2026; Estimated price: Rs 11 lakh-19 lakh; Engine: 1.0T, 1.5T

Upcoming midsize SUVs in India in 2026Image of the current-spec Taigun used only for representation.

The Kushaq’s sibling in India, the Volkswagen Taigun, will also follow it with a mid-cycle update. Spy shots suggest that, like the Kushaq, the Taigun will receive exterior and interior design revisions and new features such as ADAS, a panoramic sunroof and a 360-degree camera. It is also expected to continue with its 1-litre turbo-petrol and 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engines, with the only difference likely to be an 8-speed torque-converter gearbox replacing the currently available 6-speed unit. 

Honda Elevate facelift

Launch: H2 2026; Estimated price: Rs 11 lakh-17 lakh; Engine: 1.5P

Upcoming midsize SUVs in India in 2026Image of the current-spec Elevate used only for representation.

Launched in September 2023, the Honda Elevate is also expected to receive a facelift in 2026 to stay more relevant in India. While it is likely to continue with its 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, it could get a redesigned front and rear, along with a refreshed dashboard. It is also expected to be updated with more modern-day features. 

All prices are ex-showroom, India.

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