The month of October 2026 will bring a packed sequence of new car activity in the domestic market. Mercedes-Benz, Audi and Volvo have firm dates for launches while Skoda, Renault, Honda, Toyota, Volkswagen, Hyundai and VinFast have products lined up around the festive period as well and thus, the month will see plenty of action. Here are the confirmed and speculated arrivals:
The facelifted Mercedes-Maybach S-Class will arrive on October 5 with a larger illuminated grille, redesigned headlamps and star shaped DRLs. The cabin gets a 12.3-inch instrument screen, 14.4-inch central display and 12.3-inch passenger screen amongst a host of new additions. Overseas, the S 580 uses a 4.0-litre V8 rated at 537 hp and 750 Nm and it could be offered locally.
Volvo will launch the EX90 as its flagship three-row electric SUV in India. The Ultra trim comes with a 106 kWh battery, dual electric motor AWD system and performance figures of 456 hp and 670 Nm with a claimed range of up to 625 km. A 14.5-inch touchscreen, 9-inch driver display, Bowers & Wilkins audio system and an extensive ADAS package feature on the equipment list.
Also Read: Honda, Renault, Hyundai And Tata To Launch New SUVs Soon
The ES90 will join the EX90 on the same date and will help Volvo consolidate its portfolio in the luxury sedan space in India. Global specifications include 92 kWh and 106 kWh battery options, and output extends from 333 hp to 680 hp based on version. The 800V electrical system supports up to 350 kW DC charging and the longest range derivative claims up to 696 km on the WLTP cycle.
Audi will launch the third generation Q3 after starting local assembly recently in India. The new SUV gets a redesigned exterior and cabin, and measures 40 mm longer than its predecessor. The India-spec variants are expected to get a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine rated at around 204 hp and 320 Nm, linked to a 7-speed DCT and a Quattro AWD system.
Also Read: New Gen Audi Q3 Production Begins In India, Launch On Oct 16
All set to launch on October 17, the new-gen Renault Duster’s range will see the inclusion of an 1.8-litre hybridized petrol engine with two electric motors to make a combined 160 hp and 172 Nm of torque. Supported by a 1.4 kWh battery pack and an eight-speed multi-mode automatic transmission, the system is designed to handle up to 80 per cent city driving on EV-only mode.
Honda will update the Elevate with exterior revisions, new alloy wheels and cabin changes and is expected to launch next month as well. Reports point to additions such as 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 hp and 145 Nm with six-speed manual and CVT gearbox choices.
Hyundai will reveal the new Bayon globally on October 12 in its European specification but the company has not announced its launch date yet. However, its local bookings have already opened at Rs. 11,000 confirming its arrival in the coming weeks. It will be powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine rated at around 115 hp and 144 Nm with manual and IVT gearbox options.
Toyota will give the Glanza a styling and equipment update most likely in October considering that its sibling Maruti Suzuki Baleno has already gained a facelift. The hatchback should retain its close mechanical link with the Baleno. The familiar 1.2-litre petrol engine develops 82.93 hp and 112.4 Nm and comes with 5-speed manual and 5-speed AMT gearbox options while a CNG/AMT combo is also a possibility.
VinFast already has plans to add the VF3 to its Indian EV portfolio and it could happen this month. The small two-door electric SUV has a tall stance and compact footprint which could help rival Tata Tiago, Citroen 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.
The production of the facelifted Skoda Slavia which was revealed just over a month ago has commenced in India ahead of the official price announcement set to happen soon. It gets notable exterior and interior revisions while new features have also been added along with the inclusion of an eight-speed AT.
