Renault Duster, Tata Sierra EV and more: Top 5 upcoming SUVs in 2026 that will be game changers

From Maruti’s first electric vehicle to the return of the iconic Duster from Renault, there’s no better time to be alive for SUV enthusiasts.

Tata Sierra EV
The Sierra, in its petrol and diesel avatars, has already amassed a lot of bookings, and the EV version is expected to do the same in 2026.

If you have plans to upgrade to an SUV in 2026 and were eager to see new electrifying options alongside the existing options on offer, you have come to the right place. 2026 will see a host of new SUVs launching across various price points, thus tempting Indian buyers to go for the upgrade they have desired for a long time. From Maruti’s first electric vehicle to the return of the iconic Duster from Renault, there’s no better time to be alive for SUV enthusiasts.

Hence, without beating around the bush, let’s take a quick look at the top 5 upcoming SUVs in India that you should wait for.

1. Tata Sierra EV

Perhaps the most hyped launch of the year, the Sierra EV brings back the iconic curved rear-glass SUV from the 90s for a zero-emission future. The Sierra, in its petrol and diesel avatars, has already amassed a lot of bookings, and the EV version is expected to do the same in 2026.

The Draw: It is built on Tata’s new Acti.ev architecture. Hence, you can expect a premium 4-seater “Lounge” variant for chauffeur-driven buyers and a standard 5-seater version.

Key specs: Tata is hinting at a range of 450-500 km, AWD (All-Wheel Drive) options, and Level 2+ ADAS, similar to the Harrier EV.

Launch date: The launch date of the Sierra EV is expected sometime in January 2026.

2. Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara

Maruti is finally entering the electric arena with a global product co-developed with Toyota. Unlike the current Grand Vitara, the e-Vitara is a ground-up EV.

The Draw: It features a rugged, boxy design with modern tech features and a luxuriously appointed cabin.

Key specs: Two battery options (49kWh and 61kWh), with a claimed range of over 500 km on the higher variant.

Launch date: January 15, 2026 (Expected).

3. Mahindra XUV 7XO

Mahindra is rebranding and refreshing its flagship XUV700 to the XUV 7XO. This isn’t just a name change, though. It’s a tech overhaul designed to compete with luxury German brands.

The Draw: The 7XO will feature a triple-screen dashboard (similar to the XEV 9e), a panoramic sunroof, and a brand-new Harman Kardon audio system with Dolby Atmos.

Key specs: Retains the powerful 2.2L Diesel and 2.0L Turbo-Petrol engines, but with a drastically more premium interior.

Launch date: January 5, 2026.

4. Renault Duster

The SUV that arguably started the mid-size segment in India is coming back in its most aggressive avatar yet. After a five-year hiatus, the all-new Duster is built on the CMF-B platform.

The Draw: A “tough-road” focus with high ground clearance and a 4×4 variant that will likely be the most affordable off-roader in its class.

Key specs: 1.0L and 1.3L Turbo-Petrol engines, with a Strong Hybrid version expected later in the year.

Launch date: January 26, 2026.

5. Second-generation Kia Seltos

The Seltos is getting a complete Gen 2 makeover. It will be longer and wider than the current model, adopting the “Opposites United” design language seen on global Kia flagships like the EV9.

The Draw: A new ‘Trinity Panoramic Display’ (a 20-inch curved screen setup) and a much-needed suspension retune for better ride quality.

Key specs: 1.5L Turbo Petrol/Diesel engines. A Hybrid version is also rumored to be in the works for a late 2026 debut.

Launch Date: January 2, 2026.

This article was first uploaded on December twenty, twenty twenty-five, at sixteen minutes past nine in the night.