Buying a new car this Diwali? You may want to wait for these 13 launches from Hyundai, Maruti and Mahindra

Hyundai's Big Bet Hyundai is preparing to introduce the Bayon, a 4.2-metre SUV positioned between the Venue and Creta. Pre-bookings have reportedly begun, and vehicles are reaching dealerships. With a 1.5-litre petrol engine, manual and iVT automatic options, and twin 12.3-inch displays, the Bayon could give buyers a new reason to reconsider their next SUV purchase.

Virtus makeover

Volkswagen's popular Virtus sedan is preparing for a significant facelift before the year ends. Spy shots suggest redesigned headlights, bumpers and grille, while illuminated Volkswagen logos could add a premium touch. The biggest mechanical surprise may be a new 8-speed automatic gearbox for the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine, replacing the existing 6-speed unit.

Innova transformation

Toyota's Innova Hycross could receive a striking makeover inspired by the Hilux. Expect a redesigned front grille, updated lighting and fresh alloy wheels. Inside, a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, upgraded digital displays and ventilated rear seats are among the anticipated additions. The familiar petrol and strong-hybrid engines are expected to remain unchanged.

Maruti's secret

Maruti Suzuki is preparing special editions of two popular SUVs, the Grand Vitara and Victoris. While the Grand Vitara awaits a full facelift, a limited update could keep buyers interested. The Victoris, reportedly averaging around 11,100 monthly sales, may also receive a celebratory edition. However, the company has yet to reveal what makes these versions different.

WagonR shakeup

One of India's familiar family hatchbacks is preparing for a generational overhaul. The next-generation Maruti WagonR has been spotted undergoing road tests and could grow in size with a refreshed design and additional features. More importantly, its existing 1.2-litre four-cylinder engine is expected to make way for a newer three-cylinder unit, while the 1.0-litre petrol engine stays.

Electric challenger

Hyundai's upcoming affordable electric SUV, internally codenamed HE1i, could arrive in December with a claimed range exceeding 500 km. Built on a heavily localised E-GMP (K) platform, the EV is expected to offer 42kWh and 51.4kWh battery options. With Tata Punch EV and Nexon EV among its potential rivals, pricing could become its biggest weapon.

Honda's comeback

Honda is preparing to enter another competitive electric SUV segment with the production version of its Zero Alpha concept. Expected in December, the vehicle could feature a futuristic design, technology-packed cabin and two LFP battery options ranging from approximately 65kWh to 75kWh. The larger battery is expected to deliver more than 500 km of range, although final specifications remain unconfirmed.

Mahindra's mystery

Mahindra's Vision S concept is moving closer to production, with a new sub-compact SUV expected in December. Petrol, turbo-petrol and diesel engines are likely at launch, while hybrid and fully electric versions could follow later. With rugged styling and a technology-rich interior, Mahindra appears to be preparing a model that could appeal to several different kinds of SUV buyers.

CNG surprise

Renault is reportedly working on a turbo-CNG version of its Triber MPV, potentially combining stronger performance with lower running costs. Based on the recently introduced 100 PS turbo-petrol engine, the new version has already been spotted testing. The petrol engine produces up to 180 Nm of torque, but whether the CNG version can deliver similar performance remains an unanswered question.

Combat arrival

JSW Motors is preparing to unveil its first vehicle, the Combat, on December 4. Based on the global Jetour T2, this plug-in hybrid SUV could cost ₹40–50 lakh. Its proposed setup combines a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine, two electric motors and an 18.4kWh battery, with expected output of 360 PS. The biggest attraction could be a combined driving range of up to 1,100 km.

Tesla challenger

JSW MG Motor India's upcoming IM6 electric SUV could bring serious performance to the premium EV segment. The global AWD version produces up to 778 PS and accelerates from 0 to 100 kmph in just 3.4 seconds. Expected to compete with the Tesla Model Y, the IM6 could arrive at around ₹60 lakh, although India-specific specifications have not been confirmed.

Luxury invasion

BYD's luxury brand Denza is preparing to enter India with the D9 electric MPV around mid-November. Expected to cost approximately ₹80 lakh, it could challenge the MG M9 in the premium people-mover segment. The international version features a 103kWh battery and offers both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations. Which version reaches Indian showrooms remains to be seen.

Launch countdown

From affordable hatchbacks to ₹80 lakh luxury electric MPVs, India's car market could see a busy final stretch of 2026. Hyundai, Maruti Suzuki, Toyota, Honda, Mahindra, Renault, Volkswagen, JSW and Denza are preparing new models or updates. Several launches are expected in November and December, but many prices, specifications and final launch dates remain unconfirmed.