India’s October car market sees major SUV and EV debuts

India’s October 2026 car launch calendar will feature an unusually high volume of introductions, with luxury brands, electric vehicles, and refreshed mass-market models arriving in quick succession. At least 10 new or updated models will reach showrooms during the month, spanning Mercedes-Benz’s flagship refresh to Volvo’s first three-row electric SUV and a hybridized Renault Duster. Automakers including Audi, Honda, Toyota, and Volkswagen will also roll out updated versions of existing models or entirely new platforms, covering both premium and budget segments.

Luxury and electric vehicles take center stage

The most highly anticipated launches belong to Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Volvo, all of which have locked in October dates. On October 5, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class will receive a facelift, introducing a larger illuminated grille, restyled headlamps, and star-shaped daytime running lights. Inside, the cabin now includes a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, a 14.4-inch central display, and a 12.3-inch passenger screen. While global versions feature a 4.0-litre V8 engine producing 537 horsepower and 750 Nm, it remains unclear whether this powertrain will be offered locally.

Volvo will dominate October 12 with two major introductions. The EX90, its first three-row electric SUV, arrives as a premium offering with a 106 kWh battery, dual electric motors, and 456 horsepower. The top Ultra trim delivers a claimed range of 625 kilometers on a single charge, supported by a Bowers & Wilkins audio system and advanced driver-assistance features. On the same day, the ES90—a luxury electric sedan—joins the lineup, offering 92 kWh and 106 kWh battery options, 800V fast-charging capability, and a top-range variant with 696 kilometers of range.

Audi will introduce the third-generation Q3 on October 16, marking the brand’s first locally assembled vehicle after beginning production in India earlier this year. The new SUV is 40 millimeters longer than its predecessor and will likely feature a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine producing 204 horsepower, paired with a Quattro all-wheel-drive system.

Hybridization and mass-market updates continue

Renault’s Duster will receive a major update on October 17 with the introduction of a hybrid variant. The new 1.8-litre hybrid system combines a petrol engine with two electric motors, delivering 160 horsepower and 172 Nm of torque. A 1.4 kWh battery enables electric-only mode for up to 80 percent of city driving.

Honda will update the Raise with exterior revisions, new alloy wheels, and cabin changes, including ventilated front seats, a 360-degree camera, and a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen. The 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine should stay at around 119 horsepower and 145 Nm with six-speed manual and CVT gearbox choices.

Toyota’s Glanza, a rebadged Maruti Suzuki Baleno, will follow with a facelift, likely arriving in October. The hatchback will retain its 1.2-litre petrol engine (82.93 horsepower) and 112.4 Nm, coming with 5-speed manual and 5-speed AMT gearbox options while a CNG/AMT combo is also a possibility.

Budget electric vehicles and Vietnamese competition enter the fray

Hyundai’s Bayon, which launched globally on October 12 in its European specification, will make its India debut shortly afterward, with bookings already open at ₹11 lakh.

Vietnamese electric vehicle maker VinFast is expected to add the VF3 to its Indian lineup this month. The compact two-door electric SUV, characterized by its tall stance and small footprint, targets budget buyers currently served by the Tata Tiago EV, Citroën eC3, and MG Comet EV.

Volkswagen will update the Virtus with exterior revisions, cabin trim changes, and additional equipment. The 1.0-litre TSI is likely to gain an 8-speed automatic and the 1.5-litre TSI should retain the 7-speed DSG as the upcoming Slavia. Reports also point to a 360-degree camera and revised infotainment software.