October is shaping up to be a busy month for the Indian automobile industry, with manufacturers preparing new launches and updates ahead of the festive season. The Renault Duster Hybrid and third-generation Audi Q3 are among the key arrivals, while Mahindra is set to expand the XUV 3XO’s powertrain options. Here are six new cars to watch this month.
Renault is set to introduce the Duster E-Tech 160 strong hybrid on October 17. The new powertrain will join the turbo-petrol versions launched earlier this year, giving the SUV a more fuel-efficient alternative for city driving.
The setup combines a 1.8-litre petrol engine, two electric motors and a 1.4kWh battery pack, producing a combined 160 hp and 172 Nm. Renault claims that the Duster Hybrid can cover up to 80% of urban driving in electric mode. It will compete with hybrid SUVs such as the Maruti Suzuki Victoris, Grand Vitara and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder.
Audi will launch the new-generation Q3 in India on October 16. The luxury SUV gets a sharper design, split LED headlamps, a prominent grille and a rear light bar with an illuminated Audi emblem. Its cabin features a 12.8-inch touchscreen and an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster, alongside equipment such as a panoramic sunroof and a Sonos sound system.
Power comes from a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 204 hp, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive. The new Q3 will take on the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA, with prices expected to be announced at launch.
Mahindra is set to debut the XUV 3XO CNG on October 15, adding another powertrain to the compact SUV’s petrol, diesel and electric offerings. The CNG version is expected to use the 1.2-litre MPFI turbo-petrol engine with a factory-fitted CNG system.
Official specifications, mileage figures and prices are yet to be announced. The new variant will give buyers an SUV with a CNG option and put the XUV 3XO in competition with the Tata Nexon CNG and Maruti Suzuki Brezza CNG.
The updated Toyota Glanza is scheduled to debut on October 14. It is expected to receive revised bumpers, a larger grille and new alloy wheel designs, while the cabin could get fresh upholstery and additional features. The facelift is also expected to bring a revised engine lineup, potentially including a 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine with manual and AMT options, alongside a CNG variant. Toyota is yet to confirm the final specifications.
Hyundai’s new Bayon is expected to arrive in India during October, slotting between the Venue and Creta. The SUV features Hyundai’s newer design language, with distinctive LED lighting and a more upright stance.
The India-spec model is expected to offer a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, with manual and automatic gearbox options. A CNG version is also anticipated, although Hyundai has not confirmed the complete powertrain lineup or final launch date.
JSW MG Motor has teased the Windsor EV Indulge Edition, a special version marking two years of the electric car in India. It is expected to receive a new Shadow Gold exterior shade, black alloy wheels and revised cabin details. Reports also point to additional rear-seat comfort equipment.
Mechanical changes are not expected, with the existing Windsor’s battery and electric motor options likely to continue. MG has yet to confirm the edition’s launch date, final features and pricing.
With updates spanning hatchbacks, compact SUVs, hybrids, luxury vehicles and EVs, October’s launch calendar offers something for a wide range of buyers. However, some specifications and dates remain unconfirmed, so the final picture will become clearer as the manufacturers make their announcements.
